CHAPTER XX.

Eastern Oregon--Going "east of the mountains"--Its attractions-- Encroaching sheep--First experiments in agriculture and planting-- General description of Eastern Oregon--Boundaries--Alkaline plains-- Their productions--The valleys--Powder River Valley--Description-- The Snake River and its tributaries--The Malheur Valley--Harney Lake Valley--Its size--Productions--Wild grasses--Hay-making--The winters in Eastern Oregon--Wagon-roads--Prineville--Silver Creek--Grindstone Creek Valley--Crooked River--Settlers' descriptions and experiences-- Ascent of the Cascades going west--Eastern Oregon towns--Baker City--Prineville--Warnings to settlers--Growing wheat for the railroads to carry. 231