Page:Oregon Historical Quarterly volume 13.djvu/225

SLACUM'S REPORT ON OREGON, 1836-7 217 your horses. From the 20th of April, until the 20th of Au- gust, Grand river is not in a condition to cross. I crossed on the 15th of April last, and found the river considerably swollen; in twelve hours it rose 4^2 feet, and it continues to rise until the 15th of July. On either side of the river for the distance of from 3 to 4 leagues, it is low, level, and muddy, and soon begins to overflow. The journey at this season of the year is impracticable; there is no case existing of its having been done. In fact, no one who is aware of the situation of the part where travelers are obliged to cross Grand river, would at- tempt it, unless in case of life and death." From the above statement of Dr. Keith, I feel, with the greatest degree of reluctance, compelled to abandon the journey by land. I shall return to Guaymas immediately, and hope I may find a vessel of some size in which I can beat up the coast. I have the honor to remain, etc., etc., WILLIAM A. SLACUM. To the Hon. JOHN FORSYTH, Secretary of State, Washington. No. 2. GUAYMAS, July 7, 1836. SIR : I had the honor of addressing you on the 7th ultimo, from Petic, on the subject of my route to the Oregon, and the cause of its impracticability at this season of the year. I have now to acquaint you with my having chartered a small vessel of the country, of 12 55/95 tons, in which I em- bark this day. I almost fear I shall not be able to work up to windward on the northwest coast, as the vessel is so very small. If, however, I should be blown off the coast, I must run for the Sandwich islands, and then do the best I can to get into the (coast) river. No exertion shall be wanting on my part to execute the trust reposed in me. I have the honor to remain, etc., WILLIAM A. SLACUM. To the Hon. JOHN FORSYTH, Secretary of State } Washington.