- bows, and the Koetenays.[87] I purpose visiting these two
tribes, who have never yet had the consolation of beholding a "black gown" among them. All these tribes comprehend, on an average, about five hundred souls.
I am, with profound respect and esteem,
Your lordship's most obedient servant,
P. J. De Smet, S. J.
No. VI
A. M. D. G.
Station of the Assumption, Arcs-a-plats,
August 17th, 1845.
Monseigneur,—The 9th of August I continued my route towards the country of the Arcs-a-plats. The roads were still inundated by the great freshet. I preferred ascending the Clark or Flathead River, in my bark canoe, and sent my horses across the forests bordering the river, to await me at the great lake of the Kalispels.[88] I had here a very agreeable and unexpected interview; as we approached the forests, several horsemen issued forth in tattered garments. The foremost gentleman saluted me by name, with all the familiarity of an old acquaintance. I returned the gracious salutation, desiring to know whom I had the honor of addressing. A small river separated us, and, with a smile, he said, "Wait until I reach the
