After trapping a brief while on the Yellowstone, they worked their way to the head waters of the Missouri.
They met with fair success and while engaged in that section, learned that the reports of the ravages of the small pox among the Blackfeet had been greatly exaggerated.

Instead of being decimated, the tribe had not suffered to any serious extent and were as strong and aggressive as ever.
The trappers were not displeased to learn that such was the case, for they desired a settlement of accounts with them.

Under such circumstances it was impossible that hostilities should be long delayed..