CHAPTER II.

_From the Kansas to the Platte._

_Compagnons du Voyage._--Afloat on the Plains.--Travelling by Ambulance.--Camping-out.--Outfit and Escort.--The "divides."--The Platte itself.--The Grasshoppers.--Prairie-chickens and other Game.--Prairie Dogs.--A Happy Family.--The Little Blue.--The Pawnees and Indian rumors generally.--Virginia Station and Big Sandy.--The Settlers _en route_.--A Pennsylvania Dutchman Westernized.--Life on Fancy Creek.--Rev. Mr. Silvers of Wild Cat Creek.--A Pioneer Missionary. 33-39