Page:Early western travels, 1748-1846 (1907 Volume 9).djvu/194

 In the countries adjoining to Arkansau and Red rivers, about two millions of acres are laid out for sale. The former of these rivers is understood to be larger than the Ohio, and passes through a fertile country. The post of Arkansau is situated a little northward of latitude 34°.[96] A parallel that must be felt uncomfortably hot by most Europeans. Cotton is the most profitable product; a vegetable that has hitherto been almost exclusively cultivated by involuntary labourers.

Michigan and north-west territories are understood to be fertile, and well adapted to rearing cattle. Detroit is the capital of Michigan.[97] In {162} the north-west territory there are two settlements; one at Fort Howard, and the other Prairie du Chiens.[98] A military post is to be formed at the mouth of St. Peter's river, below the Falls of St. Anthony.[99] These extensive regions lie in a latitude corresponding with that of the New England States; and will probably be peopled by a hardy race of freemen,