XXIX
WHITMAN'S RIDE
1842
SCARCE an hour had Dr. Whitman ridden from his door at Waiilatpu when the Cayuses fiercely gathered and barred his progress.
"Back, go back," they cried. "You cannot go."
"You promised to build houses."
"You promised fences."
"You promised a saw-mill."
"You promised sheep."
"You promised cattle."
On every side arose the clamor recounting every improvement the doctor had ever suggested. When the doctor said, "We will do so and so," the Indians construed it into a promise, and to the Indian a promise is a sacred thing.
"Yes, yes, yes, my boys," said the doctor, pleased at this sudden recollection, yet impatient to be off. "I'll do it. I am going now to see about it. Look for me back; meet me at Fort Hall when the corn is ripe."
Still they delayed and detained him,—they feared he was leaving entirely. After repeated assurances and promises they let go his bridle-rein and regretfully watched his departure.
To avoid the hostile Sioux, to strike a warmer clime, and to gain the trail of the Mexican traders, Dr. Whitman turned south by way of Fort Wintee, Salt Lake,
