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COLUMBIA RIVER. 



cape. It may seem strange that this precaution should be taken, but 

 it is necessary at all times, even in clear weather ; for the tide is 

 frequently so strong, that it cannot be stemmed by oars; and too 

 much caution cannot be observed in passing across the bay. As 

 little frequented as it is, many accidents have occurred to boats and 

 canoes, by their being swept by the tide into the breakers on the bar, 

 where all hands have perished. The Indians are very cautious, and 

 it is only at certain times of the tide that they will attempt to make 

 the passage. 



We reached Baker's Bay in two hours, and formed our encamp- 

 ment; and here we determined to remain until the weather should 

 become clear, and allow us to proceed with our duties. 



As no news had been received from Passed Midshipman Eld's 

 party, whom it will be recollected I had despatched from Nisqually 

 to Gray's Harbour, by the Chickeeles, and as the time for which he 

 had provisions had expired, I became apprehensive lest some accident 

 might have detained him. I therefore despatched Lieutenant De 

 Haven and Acting-Master Baldwin, with a few Indians, along the 

 coast to Gray's Harbour, which is about forty miles distant, to convey 

 a supply of provisions for that party, and to bring intelligence of them. 

 This duty was executed by these gentlemen with promptness, and they 

 reported that the party were struggling with difficulties of no ordinary 

 character, of which I shall have occasion to speak hereafter. 



The weather continued rainy and cold; but this did not seem to 

 trouble our native pilots, Ramsey and his brother George. While we 

 were preparing our huts, these men were seen upon the bank, delibe- 

 rately stripping off their clothes, which they cai-efully folded up, and 

 placed upon the ground for pillows ; they then lay down, and covering 



