[William Clayton Journal] At half past 7 the camp was called together and received instructions from President Young, especially in regard to leaving the wagons and scattering off hunting without counsel. He strongly urged the brethren not to do it any more and said if they did, some of them would be caught by the Indians and if not killed would be severely abused. The instructions and regulations given April 17th were read and enjoined upon the camp to be observed more strictly. It was decided that the cannon wagon should be unloaded, the box put on another wagon, so that the cannon can be always ready for action. An addition of 10 volunteers was made to the standing guard and ordered that all horses and mules should be tied inside the circle at night, and cattle and cows outside within a few rods of the wagons. A guard to be placed around the cattle when turned out to graze. It is thought best to travel with the wagons four abreast and the cannon to go in the rear . . .
After travelling about half a mile the camp stopped some time waiting for some wagons behind. While stopping 3 wagons were discovered on the opposite bank of the river considered to be traders going back to Council Bluffs. The river is about 2 miles wide and no person here acquainted with it, consequently no one attempted to go over, which many desired. About 11 o'clock we proceeded five wagons abreast so as to be better prepared for defence should the Indians attack us. After traveling about two miles, one of men from the wagons on the other side the river overtook us and we halted to see him. He said there are only 9 of them. They have been to Fort Laramie for furs and are going to counsel bluffs. This is the sixteenth day since they left the Fort with Ox teams. He says the road is good on the other side and the river easily forded, not being more than knee deep in the deepest place and a good bottom. He cheerfully agreed to carry letters back for us but could not wait long. I wrote one to my family and in about half an hour a pretty large mail was made up to send back to winter quarters, and may the Lord grant that it may arrive safe. Brother Johnson bought a buffalo robe of the man for about a pound and a half of coffee, and another brother bought one for a pound of sugar and a little Pork. I feel my mind relieved by this unexpected privilege of writing back to my dear family and hope they will have the pleasure of perusing the contents . . .
[source: George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995, http://amzn.to/william-clayton]
No comments:
Post a Comment