We found upon examination that the store of bread and crackers with which our party had been provided was far-beyond what we could possibly require, and we thought it would be sufficient to allow of rations to the Frenchmen until we should reach Powell's, at the Butte des Morts, the day but one following, where we should undoubtedly be able to procure a fresh supply.
This decided on, we proceeded on our journey, always in profound silence, for a song or a loud laugh was now strictly prohibited until we should have passed the utmost limits of country where the enemy might possibly be.

We had been warned beforehand that a certain point, where the low marshy meadows, through which the river had hitherto run, rises into a more firm and elevated country, was the border of the Menomonee territory, and the spot where the Sauks, if they had fled north of the Wisconsin towards the Chippewa country, would be most likely to be encountered.
As we received intimation on the forenoon of the second day that we were drawing near this spot, I must confess that "we held our breath for awe." The three Winnebagoes were in the bow of the boat.

Old Smoker, the chief, squatted upon his feet on the bench of the foremost rowers.

We looked at him.

He was gazing intently in the direction of the wooded point we were approaching.