From this spot they had an enchanting view of the valley, about four miles broad, interspersed with beautiful groves and prairies of the richest verdure.

This evening they killed one of their oxen for food.

Thus far their route had been along the southern bank of the Kansas.

The next day they reached what was called the ford of that river, a hundred miles from its entrance into the Missouri.
But the recent rains had so swollen the stream that it was rushing by, a swift and rapid torrent two hundred and thirty yards wide.

The river could not be forded.