This stream was evidently one of the
tributaries of the Red River, and was running in an easterly direction,
and we were persuaded that it must flow through the chasm, and enter
into the forest.
Our proposal was agreed to, and without any more loss of time, each of
us taking with him a piece of horse-flesh, we retraced our steps. The
parson was on foot, and though I proposed many times that we should ride
alternately, he always refused, preferring now to travel on foot, as he
was heartily tired of riding. Indeed, I never saw a better walker in my
life; the man had evidently mistaken his profession, for he would, have
gained more money with his legs as an Indian runner, or a scout, than he
had any chance of obtaining in the one to which he belonged, and for
which he was most unqualified.
The next day, at noon, we encamped on the stream, and though with little
hope of success, I threw in my fishing-line, baiting my hook with
horse-flies and grasshoppers. My hooks had scarcely sunk in the water,
when the bait was taken, and to my astonishment and delight, I soon
dragged out of the water two very large trout. I shouted to my
companions, who were soon round me, and we resolved to pass the night
there, as we considered that a good meal or two would enable us so much
better to continue our fatiguing journey.
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