He was to be guided by the two Indians, who knew the country and promised to take him to a place not far from the Spokan River, and in a neighborhood abounding with beaver.

Here he was to establish himself and to remain for a time, provided he found the situation advantageous and the natives friendly.
On the 15th of July, when Mr.Stuart was nearly ready to embark, a canoe made its appearance, standing for the harbor, and manned by nine white men.

Much speculation took place who these strangers could be, for it was too soon to expect their own people, under Mr.Hunt, who were to cross the continent.

As the canoe drew near, the British standard was distinguished: on coming to land, one of the crew stepped on shore, and announced himself as Mr.David Thompson, astronomer, and partner of the Northwest Company.

According to his account, he had set out in the preceding year with a tolerably strong party, and a supply of Indian goods, to cross the Rocky Mountains.