Early in 1871, when Major Powell* was preparing for his second descent through the canyons of the Green and Colorado rivers, he was besieged by men eager to accompany him; some even offered to pay well for the privilege.

It was for me, therefore, a piece of great good fortune when, after an interview in Chicago with the eminent explorer, he decided to add me to his small party.

I was very young at the time, but muscular and healthy, and familiar with the handling of small boats.

The Major remarked that in the business before us it was not so much age and strength that were needed as "nerve," and he evidently believed I had enough of this to carry me through.

Certainly in the two-years, continuous work on the river and in the adjacent country I had some opportunity to develop this desirable quality.