He secured some instruments for the work and lent his aid in every possible manner.

A privilege of drawing rations at the Western army posts was also again granted, and this saved a great deal of expense.
Through a friend who was an old army acquaintance of Powell's I secured an interview in Chicago, whither I went for the purpose.

Its character was a good illustration of the explorer's quick decision.

As I advanced towards him he rose to his feet, surveyed me with a lightning glance, and said heartily, "Well, Fred, you'll do." These words constituted me a member of his party, and I began my preparations forthwith.

Dozens of men applied to join the expedition, but no more were taken, the party being now full.
The boats for this trip were modelled on those used on the former descent, with such changes and improvements as experience had suggested.
They were honestly and thoroughly constructed by a builder named Bagley, who had a yard where he turned out small craft, at the north end of the old Clark Street bridge, and we often felt a sense of gratitude to him for doing his work so well.