226 Expedition to the 



were finally brought safelv out. We then ascended into the 

 prairie, where after la'ouring over an almost continual succes- 

 sion of ravines, we passed down to the river bank, and en- 

 camped for the nigh% having travelled about :iO miles. Nu- 

 merous deer were seen to-day, but they were very shy. 



The last Bitter-apple vine that occurred on the expeditioi\ 

 was seen to-day. We were once again saluted by the notes 

 of the Blue jay, and the Pine warbler, (Sylvia /»inw*) also 

 occurred. 



24th. As the high prairies offered almost continually a suc- 

 cession of steep and rugged ravines, which called for too 

 much exertion from our horses to pass them, it was de- 

 termined to endeavour to force our way through the under- 

 growth of the bottom. This we found to be now so intricate, 

 that in many places it was really difficult to force a passage 

 through the intertwined briars, and climbing plants. Our 

 progress was however, at length altogether interrupted by a 

 deep and miry slough of the river, over which no ford could 

 be found. Fortunately, however, the sandy bed of the river 

 itself offered a sufficiently firm footing to enable us to pass 

 round the obstacle. Tired of the brambles, we again sought 

 the prairie, and ascending an elevated hill, enjoyed a fine 

 view of the river in its meanders, to a great distance, but 

 the place of destination. Belle Point, which we now all 

 anxiously looked out for, was not yet in sight. 



A journey of 9 3 4 miles brought us to a large stream of 

 clear water, but hardly perceptible current, passing over a 

 bed of rock and mud; the banks were steep and high, and af- 

 forded us a very pleasant resting place during the presence 

 of the mid-day heats. A flock of paroquets flew over our 

 heads, uttering their loud note, with their usual loquacity. 

 The kingfisher was flying from one withered support to ano- 

 ther over the surface of the creek, and occasionally darting 

 into the water in pursuit of some little scaly victim; and a 

 large white crane, (Ardea egretta^ WilsonJ stalked, with 



