Chapter 38

EXPLORATION AND DISCOVERY.

Launching the canoes.--Flat Mouth and White Cloud again.--An inspiring scene.--Farewell to Leech Lake.--Up the Kabekanka River.--Dinner at Lake Benedict.--Difficult navigation.--A peaceful haven.--Supper and contentment.--Lake Garfield.--Preparations for first portage.--Utter exhaustion.--Encampment for the night.--The cavalry column.--Lake George and Lake Paine.--The Naiwa River.--Six miles from Itasca.--Camping on the Mississippi watershed.--A startling discovery.--Rations giving out.--Ammunition gone.--Arrival at Lake Itasca 454