I did not know that another movement, in a far distant region, was then on foot for exploring the same latitudes, with which it was my fortune eventually to be connected.

I allude to the expedition from Detroit in 1820, under General Cass.
I had, at this time, personally visited every mine or digging of consequence in the Missouri country, and had traced its geological relations into Arkansas.

I was engaged on this paper assiduously.

When it was finished, I read it to persons well acquainted with the region, and sought opportunities of personal criticism upon it.
The months of February and March had now glided away.

Too close a confinement to my room, however, affected my health.