Lewis and Clarke struck the main body of the river at the forks, about four hundred miles from its mouth.

They entered it from Lewis River, its southern branch, and thence descended.
Though Mr.Thompson could be considered as little better than a spy in the camp, he was received with great cordiality by Mr.M'Dougal, who had a lurking feeling of companionship and good-will for all of the Northwest Company.

He invited him to head-quarters, where he and his people were hospitably entertained.

Nay, further, being somewhat in extremity, he was furnished by Mr.M'Dougal with goods and provisions for his journey back across the mountains, much against the wishes Of Mr.David Stuart, who did not think the object of his visit entitled him to any favor.
On the 23rd of July, Mr.Stuart set out upon his expedition to the interior.

His party consisted of four of the clerks, Messrs.