Ferdinand De Soto, The Discoverer of the Mississippi American Pioneers and Patriots
CHAPTER XVII.
_The Discovery of the Mississippi._
The Fortress of Hostile Indians.--Its Capture.--The Disastrous Conflict.--The Advance of the Army.--Discovery of the Mississippi River.--Preparations for Crossing.--Extraordinary Pageants.--Unjustifiable Attack.--The passage of the River.--Friendly Reception by Casquin.--Extraordinary Religious Festival. 296