The point itself was ornamented with wild flowers of every hue, in which innumerable humming-birds were "banqueting nearly the livelong day." The situation of this point appeared to be well adapted for a trading post.

The climate was salubrious, the soil fertile, the rivers well stocked with fish, the natives peaceable and friendly.

There were easy communications with the interior by the upper waters of the Columbia and the lateral stream of the Oakinagan, while the downward current of the Columbia furnished a highway to Astoria.
Availing himself, therefore, of the driftwood which had collected in quantities in the neighboring bends of the river, Mr.Stuart and his men set to work to erect a house, which in a little while was sufficiently completed for their residence; and thus was established the first interior post of the company.

We will now return to notice the progress of affairs at the mouth of the Columbia..