Page:Hugh Pendexter--Kings of the Missouri.djvu/158

 Another volley, supplemented with much shouting, rang out from the bank, and Prevost roared his second order:

"Levez les perches!"

Up came the poles, only to drop overboard as the first order was repeated; and again the two lines of men buckled down to it with their shoulders against the knobs and their feet pushing the cleats forward. To Lander the uninitiated it was a stirring sight, not so much because of its novelty as for the romance and adventure it suggested. The men must carry the long tow-line along shores almost impassable. Whether on the move or tied up for the night there would be much danger from the Indians, especially from the Aricaras. It was destined that some of the light-hearted company would never return.

"Enough powder's been wasted, boys," called out Bridger. "Give 'em cheers and make ready to start. Come and help me get out the equipments."

Lander was soon busy handing out one pair of three-point blankets and powder and ball to each man. Finishing this task he joined Papa Clair and Bridger in assigning the mules. Each man had two, one to ride and one to lead as a pack