Page:Oregon Historical Quarterly volume 17.djvu/271



DIARY 263

Friday, Sept. 19. Daniel and myself are now on the bank of the Willamette river, a little distance from Mr. McKay's place. Wednesday expected that the brig would come up to Vancouver and we should receive our goods there, but the want of wind prevented her coming up. Went on board just at night and ascertained that we could not get them until the cargo was taken out. Slept on board and walked to the fort, three miles, in the morning and commenced preparations for a trip up the Willamette. Dr. McLoughlin made all the neces- sary preparations of men, boat, food, etc., and we were off about 4 o'clock. Camped up on the sand. Started early this morning and came to the mouth of the Willamette and found the brig there. Took breakfast on board. Waited while Capts. Lambert, Wyeth and Thing explore the vicinity in search of a place to suit their business, but they could fine none to please them. Left them with the expectation that they will unload some of their goods and ours at or near the place where they now are. Arrived at 1 :30 o'clock.

Saturday, September 20. Yesterday rode over Mr. McKay's place. The soil is sandy, light and poor. The corn killed by frost ; potatoes, light crop ; wheat and peas, tolerably good. Do not think such land will answer our purpose. This morning examined a piece of ground on the opposite of the creek good soil, timber in abundance in the vicinity and would make a tolerable farm; but it is but a few feet above high water mark and in the spring is surrounded by water, and I fear subject to frost, and fever and ague. There is plenty of grass for cattle in all directions, and the horses and cattle for the farm look exceedingly well. The superintendent, a Canadian, showed us the utmost attention and kindness. Started 9 hours 30 minutes to proceed up the river. Nearly all the land for some miles is overflowed in high water. Passed over a ridge covered mostly with a large species of fir, white maple, hemlock, ash, black cherry and cedar.

Sunday, September 21. Daniel, being unwell, I was anxious to reach the settlement and we reached the river and camped. Some of the settlers came over to see us.