CHILDHOOD AND YOUTH gI 
ous offers of the President of the American Fur Company who himself 
will go along with us, that the difficulties that existed some 30 years 
ago in such undertakings are now rendered as Smooth and easy as 
it is to go to Carlisle and return to N. Y. as many times as would 
make up the Sum in Miles of about 3000: Our difficulties (if any 
there are) will be felt on our return; when we must come back to 
S*. Louis in one or 2 open boats in Sep* and part of Oct" next. The 
passage being longer or shorter accordingly with the state of the 
Missouri at that Season. 
Edward Harris, who went with me to the Texas, has determined 
on going with me. John G. Bell, the Stuffer of birds, etc. I have 
hired to go with me, and was I willing to accept of all the different 
offers made to me, I could have more companions than would serve 
my Views or advance my Wishes in any way. 
Young Leconte is not going with me as far as I am aware of at 
present. 
The objects mostly wanted for such a Journey are a good Gun 
or Two, double barrelled with Moulds for Bullets to fit, Caps, etc. 
etc. a couple of good Blankets, or what we Call Comforters, a first 
rate Life preserver to Swim with, a Butcher Knife or 2, and Just 
such Clothing as is fit for a rough expedition of Six Months. Every- 
thing else, I can venture to promise for our Comfort and safety. 
My son Victor wrote to you this afternoon, Just previous to 
having taken your letter to the N. Y. Post Office; thus you will 
receive our two letters almost simultaneously. 
It is my Wish to leave New York on the ro or 12th of March 
next, and go by way of Baltimore or Wheeling, then to take a steamer 
to Louisville, and, again another direct for St Louis. The steamer 
of the Fur Company leaves S‘. Louis from the 25th of March to the 
1st. of April, according with the advancement of the season, and the 
rise of the Waters, but of this I can inform you in good time as soon 
as I receive your determination to go or not to go? This I will 
positively look for in your next letter in answer to this. 
With our united regards to the whole of your family, believe me 
always, Yours sincere friend, 
Joun J. Aupuson. 
P. S. I forgot to say that you will want a Strong Mosquito-Bar 
this is made of beaver grass Cloth. If you cannot procure this article 
