The soil is deep and doubtless rich, but densely covered with 
a growth of bushes, reeds, grasses and vines. Grease-wood? 
and sage flourish on the edges and higher flats. There is 
but little grass land. The slopes are rocky and bare except¬ 
ing a light growth of pinons. In issuing from the canon above 
a most gratifying and refreshing landscape come into view. The 
grassy valleys and lower mountain"slopes. The aspen and pine 
clad hills and the mountains high and bare and blue. 7/e have 
left barrens and heat and drowth and desert and by passing 
this canon gate-way have entered another world, fresh and 
bright and lovely. "I could be merry now" and the four mules 
even seemed to feel already the influence of the uplands,and 
step with more than usual elasticity. 
At Camp we met Jim Hade1iff (of the Mancos Ranch) and on 
inquiry we found that Mr. Gar diner had not yet arrived, and 
that there was no news from any of the parties in the fibid. 
Agreed to exchange 100 pounds of flour for 100 pounds of 
potatoes with him. 
August 20th.- 
This morning a very great surprise was in store for us. 
Vie had hardly ridden a mile toward the LaPlata when we were 
stopped by a shout from behind, and turning were greeted by 
Mr, Henry Gannett; the least expected arrival possible. He 
