They now had two canoes and two periogues left, and the loads were divided among these craft.

This increased the difficulties of navigation, and Captain Lewis crossed over to the south side of the river in search of canoes to be purchased from the Indians, who lived in a village on that side of the stream.

The narrative continues: "The village now consisted of eleven houses, crowded with inhabitants, and about sixty fighting men.

They were very well disposed, and we found no difficulty in procuring two small canoes, in exchange for two robes and four elk-skins.

He also purchased with deer-skins three dogs,--an animal which has now become a favorite food, for it is found to be a strong, healthy diet, preferable to lean deer or elk, and much superior to horseflesh in any state.