CAMP ON CLEAR FORK. 187 
Our camp was very convenient and picturesque. A level 
prairie, bounded on the west by a range of bluffs, extended for 
about six miles in length and half a mile wide. 
We were encamped on the eastern edge, about one hundred 
feet above the Clear Fork, between which and us was a low 
valley, shaded by noble pecan and elm trees, where the mess 
fires were lighted, and the Delawares made their camp. 
The prairie was destitute of timber, but very breezy, and 
free from insects. 
Our wagons were parked in a large semicircle in front, and 
with the valley and river in our rear, we were secure from 
attack. A large and cool spring percolated from the bank a 
short distance below our camp, and, with the fish and turtles 
from the stream, we had a very good time during our stay, 
which was a long one. 
Several deserted camps were scattered over the valley, 
showing this to be a favourite spot with the wild Indians, and, 
in roaming around, I picked up beads and other relics, 
The stream afforded delightful bathing ground, which we 
availed ourselves of during our stay, and could now roll up in 
our blankets at night, with the comfortable assurance of no 
more early starts and long rides, under that blazing sun, for 
some days—a great relief, with the thermometer averaging 
one hundred and four degrees daily, the nights, as usual, 
always pleasant, and seeming as if made for sleep. 
