Travels Through North America 



and divides the dominions of Virginia from Mary- 

 land.* We rested here one day, and proceeded up 

 the river about tw^enty-six miles, to take a view of the 

 Great Falls. These are formed in some respect like 

 those of the Rappahannock; but are infinitely more 

 noble. The channel of the river is contracted by 

 hills; and is as narrow, I was told, as at Fort Cum- 

 berland, which is an hundred and fifty miles higher 

 up. It is clogged moreover with innumerable rocks; 

 so that the water for a mile or two flows with ac- 

 celerated velocity. At length coming to a ledge of 

 rocks, which runs diametrically across the river, it 

 divides into two spouts, each about eight yards wide, 



couraging circumstances, Mr. Washington, attended by one com- 

 panion only, set out upon this dangerous enterprise: travelled 

 from Winchester on foot, carrying his provisions on his back, exe- 

 cuted his commission; and after incredible hardships, and many 

 providential escapes, returned safe to Williamsburg, and gave an 

 account of his negotiation to the assembly, the 14th day of Feb- 

 ruary following. 



* A very curious sight is frequently exhibited upon this and the 

 other great rivers in Virginia, which for its novelty is exceedingly 

 diverting to strangers. During the spring and summer months 

 the fishing-hawk is often seen hovering over the rivers, or resting 

 on the wing without the least visible change of place for some 

 minutes, then suddenly darting down and plunging into the water, 

 from whence it seldom rises again without a rock fish, or some 

 other considerable fish, in its talons. It immediately shakes off the 

 water like a mist, and makes the best of its way towards the woods. 

 The bald eagle, which is generally upon the watch, instantly pur- 

 sues, and if it can overtake, endeavours to soar above it. The 

 hawk growing solicitous for its own safety drops the fish, and the 

 bald eagle immediately stoops, and seldom fails to catch it in its 

 pounces before it reaches the water. 



