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Across the Plains 1858 Aug 30th - rapids, but not very wide. We drove our animals in and they soon swam across, the river is about eighty feet wide and not fordable at any season of the year. On the opposite side we saw a skeleton frame made of willow . it fell to the lot of Emehiser to swim across and bring it over, while on the other side he found a post marked by Pambrun? who had crossed the day previous having heard that we were en route. As soon as the skeleton frame was brought over we covered it with our dressed buffalo skin, and lashed it fast on the inside. the boat representing a canoe, when finished, and would hold from five to six hundred weight. When ready to launch we fastened a rope to each end and giving one to Emehiser he again swam across with the line. Sending his clothes and another man we soon had the pleasure of seeing our provisions and traps safely landed on the opposite shore. It being late we deferred crossing the carts till morning. Hinds and myself staying with the carts, and slept comfortably. During the night the boys shot a skunk the repost? awakened us and at first we thought we were attacked by Indians. Traveled about twenty miles. Aug. 31st Tuesday - Drawed our carts over by ropes. Loaded and started. After ascending the hill which is rather steep and long, we again passed through such country as yesterday continually passing lakes and unclear groves. Grass very good. Weather cool and cloudy. Camped near a swamp and grove. Traveled about twelve miles. Sept. 1st Wednesday - Morning travel presented no change in the features of the country. Afternoon came to fine open prairies passed several fresh and salt water lakes. Killed a fine mess of ducks. Some of these lakes are a theme of study for philosophers and