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 *vations I had heard I was induced to buy a horse, in conjunction with an American officer with whom I came in the stage, and who was also going to Pittsburgh. We agreed to ride alternately.

{35} CHAP. IV

Departure from Shippensburgh to Strasburgh—Journey over the Blue Ridges—New species of Rhododendrum—Passage over the river Juniata—Use of the Cones of the Magnolia Acuminata—Arrival at Bedford Court House—Excesses to which the Natives of that part of the Country are addicted—Departure from Bedford—Journey over Alleghany Ridge and Laurel Hill—Arrival at West Liberty Town.

On the morning of the 30th of June we left Shippensburgh, and arrived at twelve o'clock at Strasburgh, being a distance of ten miles. This town consists of about forty log-houses, and is situated at the foot of the first chain of Blue Ridges. The tract of country you have to cross before you get there, although uneven, is much better; and you have a view of several plantations tolerably well {36} cultivated. After having taken a moment's repose at Strasburgh, we pursued our journey notwithstanding the heat, which was excessive, and ascended the first ridge by an extremely steep and rocky path. We reached the summit after three quarters of an hour's difficult walking, and crossed two other ridges of nearly the same height, and which follow the same direction. These three ridges form two little valleys, the first of which presents several small huts built on the declivity; in the second, which is rather more extensive, is situated a town called Fenetsburgh, composed of about thirty houses, which stand on both sides of the road; the plan