Chapter XVIII

The party, while descending the river in their skin canoes,
are overtaken by the detachment under captain Lewis, and the
whole party, now once more happily united, descend the Missouri
together. They once more visit the Minnetaree Indians, and
hold a council with that nation as well as with the Mahahas.
Captain Clark endeavours to persuade their chiefs to accompany
him to the United States, which invitation they decline, on
account of their fears of the Sioux, in their passage down the
river. Colter, one of the party, requests and obtains liberty
to remain among the Indians for the purpose of hunting beaver.
Friendly deportment of the Mandans; council held by captain
Clark with the chiefs of the different villages; the chief
named the Bigwhite, with his wife and son, agree to accompany
the party to the United States, who takes an affecting farewell
of his nation. Chaboneau, with his wife and child, decline
visiting the United States, and are left among the Indians.
The party at length proceed on their journey, and find that
the course of the Missouri has, in some places, changed since
their passage up that river. They arrive among the Ricaras.
Character of the Chayennes; their dress, habits, &c. Captain
Clark offers to the chief of this nation a medal, which he at
first refuses, believing it to be medicine, but which he is
afterwards prevailed on to accept. The Ricaras refuse to permit
one of their party to accompany captain Clark to the United
states until the return of their chief, who had formerly gone.
The party proceed rapidly down the river. Prepare to defend
themselves against the Tetons, but receive no injury from them.
Incredible numbers of buffaloe seen near White river. They
meet, at last, with the Tetons, and refuse their invitation to
land. Intrepidity of captain Clark. 403

CHAPTER XIX.

The party return in safety to St. Louis. 423

Appendix. 435

LEWIS AND CLARKE’S EXPEDITION UP THE MISSOURI.