240 EXPEDITION TO THi; 



and margin of the lake. Westward of the same point uo 

 sand banks are to be met with, except occasionally at the 

 debouchures of the larger streams. Small parcels of tilla- 

 ble ground are occasionally to be found along the coast, but 

 they occupy but a very inconsiderable portion of the sur- 

 face. Agreeably to the best intelligence that could be had, 

 the country back of the lake, to the distance of fifty or 

 sixty miles, is very similar in aspect and character to that 

 in the vicinity of the lake. 



On the southerly coast, we have no information more 

 authentic than that furnished by Mr. Schoolcraft in his 

 narrative of Governor Cass' expedition, from which we 

 should infer, that a region equally as unproductive and in- 

 hospitable is there presonted. 



In concluding our observations relative to this part of 

 our route, we would remark generally, that no part of the 

 country can ever admit of a dense population, if we except 

 perhaps the valley of Rainy river, which is of no very 

 considerable extent. The most favourable estimate of its 

 future population, founded upon present appearances, would 

 iiot admit of more than a single soul to every thousand 

 acres of country. Yet, notwithstanding the rudeness of its 

 aspect, the severity of its climate, and the sterility of its 

 surface, it is possessed of some features grateful and inte- 

 resting in a high degree. No country can boast of a greater 

 variety, beauty, and grandeur of water scenery. In the few 

 places where agriculture has been attempted and found 

 practicable, wheat succeeds well. Potatoes grow to great 

 perfection. Turnips, beets, and other culinary roots are 

 raised to great advantage, and onions, notwithstanding the 

 shortness of the summer, attain their full size in a single 

 season. 



It may be thought that this chapter ought to contain 



