58 RECONNAISSANCE FROM CARROLL, MONTANA. 
Half a mile beyond is a small stream, which I followed up for about twelve miles, then pulled over 
a high divide; at this point the only difficult road was encountered. Across the divide, the head of 
the Middle Fork of the Gallatin River was struck. and a general course with that of the stream was 
followed to Fort Ellis. 
In the progress up the Yellowstone River, a very noticeable feature presented itself; the 
change of the character of the country adjacent to it. Throughout its whole length on the lower 
stream, the elevations on either side never attain to more than the dignity of “‘buttes.” But from the 
moment of passing Crazy Mountain, the scenery of the river becomes more in keeping with the 
grandeur to which it attains above. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 
R. E. THoMPsoN, 
Second Lieutenant Sixth Infantry. 
Capt. WILLIAM LUDLOW, 
Corps of Engineers, Saint Paul, Minn. 
