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Oral History |
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at Laramie, Wyoming. |
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Saturday, April 25, 1868-Party left Omaha on the 5:30 o'clock p.m. train bound west. The corps consists of A.G. Ferguson, engineer in charge, A.N. Ferguson, Oliver Newcomb and Addison Upton. The train arrived at berths in sleeping car and retired early. Sunday, April 26, 1868-Our train stopped at a station two hours last night on account of Indians. Made North Platte a few hours after sunrise where we had breakfast. This is a very warm morning. Had dinner at Sidney Station. Arrived at Cheyenne about 6 o'clock p.m. Had supper at Rollins House after which we walked around town where we witnessed strange sights. The whole city was the scene of one high carnival-gambling saloon and other places of an immoral character in full blast-bands of music discoursing from the fronts of various places-streets crowded with men-and numerous houses illuminated, and vice and riot having full and unlimited control, making the Sabbath evening a sad and fearful time instead of being holy and peaceful. Retired to bed early. Monday, April 27, 68-In the morning we got our effects together and started on a construction train for the end of track which is supposed to be some five miles west of Dale Creek. At portion of the way over the Black Hills I rode on the tender and held on to the cab of the engine to steady myself. Colonel Wilcox and Mr. Wood were also on the engine. Arrived at Summit City about noon and had dinner. We here left the track and continued our trip in a wagon as far as Fort Saunders; where we pitched our tents for the first time. Retired to bed early and slept three in a bed. Did not rest well. Tuesday, April 28, 68-I had an early breakfast in the morning and during the entire day we had nothing to do. A few days ago four men were shot by the Indians and were brought into this post-one of them died from the effects of his wounds last night and during today, the soldiers have been digging his grave. Another of the wounded men I hear is not expected to live. Wednesday, April 29, 68-After a good night's rest and also after having received our stock of provisions, we struck camp and moved as far west as the Little Laramie River where we pitched our tents for the night. Thursday, April 30, 68-We are now on our way to North Platte where we expect to be stationed for some time. Mr. Ames, a nephew of the president, accompanied us from Ft. Saunders to the Little Laramie and remains with us in our tent tonight. Friday, May 1, 68-This is a fine morning and we have a pretty fair start. During our days travel we have been through a pretty bad Indian country and were liable at any and every moment to be attacked. I am thankful to God for preserving us. We camp tonight with Fitzgerald's grading force and Storm's Engr. Corps, and are in sight of where Clarke was killed by Indians last year. After supper we had occasion to go to a spring but a short distance from camp and for safety three of us went well armed. Beautiful moonlight night. May 2, 68-Got an early start this morning and have traveled all day through a terrible country, the desolation of which is awful. We have mounted men to our right but can't make out whether they are Indians or not. We pass through the most dangerous part of our road today and at noon we passed within a few miles of a camp of several hundred hostile Indians. There are only five men of us in all and a little over 300 rounds of ammunition, and the risk and exposure is so great that it is like taking a man's life in his hand. We make camp tonight near some soldiers and are comparatively safe. We have had a very anxious day of it-being on the lookout from morning until night, not knowing but what we might be attacked at every turn of the road. We have kept our arms loaded and capped in our hands all day so as to be ready at an instant's warning. I feel thankful for having been preserved today. Our mules got away this evening but John, our driver, recaptured them before dark. Sunday May 3, 68-Nice morning. We are on the road in good season. This is the most dismal and desolate country that I have ever seen. We have the mountains on both sides of us and the country through which we are traveling is wild and hilly. Have seen but little game, once that antelope. Late in the afternoon, while crossing the summit of a range of high hills, we were subjected to a severe hail storm from which we suffered considerable. Made an early camp on account of the inclement weather. Camp with some infantry. We were joined by two trappers today who camp with us tonight. Everything is wet and uncomfortable. We have made camp fires of sage brush under the lee of a sluff which makes it a little more pleasant. Go to bed in good season. Monday May 4, 68-The next morning we got a middling early start, and for the greater portion of the day we have been descending a long valley-in places very rough and sandy with here and there a good sized lake. The face of the country is almost wholly covered with sage brush and grease weed. This evening we made North Platte where we expected to find a camp, but we had mistaken the route and found that we were lost. We pitched our tents under some high cottonwood trees and after supper we sent two scouts below and two above to see if they could make any discoveries. They returned about dark and reported no camp in sight. They reported fresh Indian trails and fresh moccasin tracks in the bluffs. Towards night party had a "scare"-it, however, proved to be a false alarm. One of the trappers and shot a duck this evening. The entire force goes on guard tonight. I and Upton stand until 12 o'clock. One of the trappers and John until 3 and the other trapper and Oliver until sunrise. Our posts were some distance apart and each of us stood under the shadow of a large tree where we could not very easily be seen by the Indians. It was a cloudy night-though we could faintly discern the moon as it dimly struggled toward the heavens. I had a lonesome time and often thought of the comforts of home, and then of the dangers to which we were exposed. Tuesday May 5, 68-We were glad to see the sunrise the next morning and after breakfast we loaded up and set out on a scout of discovery. After traveling some 18 miles in the direction of Elk Mountain we made a camp, the sight of which did our heart good. Saw two Rocky Mountain Sheep which the hunter endeavored to shoot but could not on account of some imperfection with his rifle. About 3 in the afternoon we made Stevenson and O'Brian's camp where we pitch our tent, having some work to do in this locality. Received notes from Kendall. Gray took a horse and rode down the "line" some six miles to see Mr. Hurd-returned before dark. Looks stormy this evening. Go to bed in good season. Wednesday May 6, 68-In the morning it commenced snowing and has continued throughout the whole day. The party built fires of sage brush out of doors around which, notwithstanding the storm, we were thankful enough to hover. As we go to bed tonight it is still snowing. Thursday May 7, 68-Morning broke cold though the storm has ceased. Party went in the "line" and staked out work. We are a little tired this evening. This afternoon Mr. Pike, division engineer, arrived from the west and remains in our camp tonight. Our trapper left for the Platte today. Friday May 8, 68-The next morning we recommended work on the "line" and by about 10 o'clock we had staked out about 32 stations of pretty rough work. The afternoon we devoted to cleaning up our clothes and persons. Towards evening Gray took a horse and went down the "line" to camp. He said he did not know whether he would return this evening or not. We intend moving camp to the Platte tomorrow God willing. On the evening we built a camp fire in our old place among the sage brush around which we sat and talked for some time. Go to bed in good season. Saturday May 9, 68-The next morning broke pleasant. Gray returned from below about 9 o'clock a.m. by which time we had nearly every thing packed up and loaded in the wagon with the exception of the tents which we left up until we were about ready to move out. Arrived at our new camp ground about noon and soon had our tents pitched in a very fine locality. On the afternoon the party occupied their time in fixing up generally and preparing for tomorrow's work. M.S. Hall's outfit arrived this evening and are camped below us. Evening pleasant but cool. Had Rocky Mountain Sheep for supper for the first time. Party well. The boys are all in bed and I will be in a few minutes. Sunday May 10, 68-Last night I felt somewhat unwell and all during today have been unwell. Eat no breakfast this morning. Stated on the "line" in good season and ran levels until noon when the party returned to camp. Had slight shower of rain this morning accompanied with a little hail. Showers this afternoon also quite cold. I cleaned the instruments after dinner. Have heard nothing about Indians for sometime. There was 14 inches of snow at Bridger's Post last Tuesday. This is a beautiful Sunday morning and throughout the entire day the weather has been fine. A sad accident occurred at Hall's grading camp before dinner which was the accidental shooting of a man through the body. Some of our party was down there shortly after it occurred. It is feared that the wounded man will not recover. The party have remained in camp today. I have felt quite unwell. Monday May 11, 68-We generally have very cold evenings-with frost. Monday morning broke fine. The party got an early start on the "line". Commenced work and staked out until late in the afternoon-closing at about 5209. Had lunch on the "line". The day has been warm and pleasant. Have seen no game with the exception of a few rabbits. Col. Dodge, commander of this post, and a lieutenant paid a visit this evening to Gray and Mr. Pike-they had quite a long chat around the camp fire. Newcomb and I had a walk up "town" after tea. Evening cool-I wearing my overcoat as is generally the case with all of us every evening. The entire corps are very tired tonight. Tuesday May 12, 68-This has been a fearful day. The party rose early and Newcomb and Upton made stakes until dinner. Gray and I figured on the estimate until noon. After our dinner he told me to take the party cross the river and stake out some work on the western shore. I accordingly started with the party consisting of four men including myself, and after some delay in finding the ford, crossed the river in our team and proceeded to work on the "line." I ran about 10 sta., when finding that we had lost the "tape line", I recalled the party and started on our return to camp. Newcomb walking most of the way to the river's bank in search for the "tape". We all got in the wagon and were in the rapids about midway across, when our driver, who was not well acquainted with the ford, got the team a little too low down, and the first thing we knew was that the water was flooding in the wagon box, and our mules were out of their depth and being swiftly carried down stream by the terrible violence of the current. At this moment the wagon box was capsized, and the other part uncoupled and we were all floundering among the waves below the rapids. I retained the leveling instrument in my hand all this time at the risk of being drowned as the wagon box was pressing me down all the time and besides I had got one foot entangled in it some how and was fearfully struggling to extricate myself. I immediately saw that it was for me a struggle for life or death, and therefore dropped the instrument and clung to the hind wheels-the other boys having already floated off and were drowning below me… That I soon found wound not support me and therefore notwithstanding my clothing, a pair of heavy boots, and a havensac which was slung across my shoulder, I started to swim across the icy current and by the help of God I succeeded in reaching the bank were I clung to some bushes until I was rescued by two men who heard my calls for help and came to my aid. As I gained the bank I found one of the men who had saved himself by clinging to the box until it had floated against a pile of driftwood-the other two, John Sullivan and Oliver Newcomb were drowned. Upton, the man who was saved, said that he saw the boys as they went down for the last time, as they were but a short distance from him, and that he will never forget the look of awful terror and despair that had settled on their countenances, and the persons who were standing on the shore on either side, who were powerless to help, could hear their dying shrieks as they rang out upon the air. A couple of men took Upton and myself, who were in a perfect chill, down the river some distance where they crossed us in a boat and we got into camp as soon as possible and had a change of clothing and some stimulant which was sent to us by a friend. We were the only two who were saved-everything else including team, 3 guns, instruments, were lost. The bodies of the two men have not yet been recovered. Wednesday May 13, 68-In the morning we made preparations to recover if possible our instruments, arms and wagon which were lost yesterday. About 1 o'clock p.m. we carried the boat from below in a wagon to the ford. We here made an anchor by filling a large bag with stones, and after some little delay we made the boat fast in close proximity to where the accident occurred. An old man-of-wars-man volunteered to make the investigations for us which he did holding on to a rope which Upton, who sat in the bow of the boat held. His endeavors, however, were unsuccessful. After this we floated down the river and endeavored to get a portion of the wagon cover, but failed in this also. As we passed along the banks of the river we kept a sharp look out for the dead bodies but they could not be found. We are tired tonight. The river is rising. Thursday May 14, 68-Rose rather late this morning. After breakfast, I, Upton and Crouse made an unsuccessful attempt to recover a portion of our wagon, after which we returned to camp and made a table for the cooks tent. Two hunters are reported as killed and scalped by the Indians. Though the truth of it is doubted. I was informed late this afternoon that Indian signal fires were seen yesterday, and that the wild game was running up the river which is a good indication of the nearness of the Savages. We were visited by a rain storm this afternoon and towards night our camp was visited by Mr. Hurd, Div. Engr. Gen. Casement, Col. Dodge and Major Bent. The evening is quiet, the river is still on the rise. Gen. Casement teams were crossing this afternoon and one of the mules was drowned. Party well. Friday May 15, 68-The morning it commenced raining and has continued stormy throughout the entire day. Party have remained in camp. Crouse has been figuring on the estimate this afternoon and evening. I with two of the boys were down opposite Hall's camp for part of our wagon which had been washed down the river. It has been so disagreeable today that we have "fixed up" a stove in our tent and we are now quite comfortable. Mr. Hurd returned down the "line" last evening. Had fresh Antelope for supper. Saturday May 16, 68-Pike has left us and intends going to Great Salt Lake City before long. The next day was a little showery and for the past few days it has been wet and unpleasant. Saturday afternoon Seymoure's corps arrived and pitched his camp along side of us-a messenger from Mr. Hurd also arrived and is to remain at our camp until the 21 when he will return down the "line" to Fort Saunders, stopping at the different corps of engineers to receive their monthly estimates. The river is rising rapidly owing to the late rains and the melting of the snow in the mountains. It was reported yesterday that some hunters who were out discovered some six miles below us a camp of Indians. Major Chesman returned to his camp last evening after making us a visit. Sunday May 17, 68-Today I was down at the river side while they were landing their new ferry boat which did not work quite as satisfactorily as was wished for. Two more men reported having been drowned in the river yesterday. Quite a number of grading camps are in this vicinity waiting to cross the river. I have not felt very well today and have done no work. Monday May 18, 68-The weather still continues stormy with some wind and occasional sunshine. I have remained in camp most of the day. In the forenoon Gray was on Mr. Hall's work taking estimate. Some rain in the afternoon. The river is still rapidly rising. Today I met an old friend of last summer's campaign who has just arrived from below. He informed me that he saw fresh moccasin tracks in the road which had been made since the rain as could be see quite distinctly. The weather is cool this evening. Tuesday May 19, 68-The morning broke pleasant though some what cloudy. During the day we had several showers. Seymour's corps of engineers crossed the river this morning and are now camped on the opposite side. Gray started shortly after breakfast for Stevenson's camp for the purpose of taking estimate and returned at nearly sun down, wet and suffering from a severe attack of toothache. I and Upton remained in camp most of the day and occupied the time in reading. We had a beautiful sunset this evening together with a brilliant rainbow. Evening pleasant. Wednesday May 20, 68-Day broke beautifully and has continued fine. After dinner Gray went down to Col. Dodge's and has spent the afternoon there. This morning I, Upton and Crouse had 3 lots recorded in the young town above us. The R.R. messenger left us today for Fort Saunders, taking with him the "estimate" and mail matter. Thursday May 21, 68-Seymour's corps started west this morning. Crouse and I had a bath this afternoon though we found the water rather cold. Friday May 22, 68-In the morning shortly after breakfast Upton and I made a few stakes and then went down to Petty's Bro and did a little work there in the way of getting our ax in order. While there were visited by a severe storm of rain and hail which compelled us to seek shelter. The hunters brought in this afternoon three elk which were in fine order. While waiting for the storm to abate Mr. Stanton showed us some fine specimens of agate and elk tusks each of which he informed us was worth an Indian pony and were considered by the savages as a big medicine. In the evening Upton and I took a walk when we met Gray and Capt. Towery and also formed the acquaintance of a Dr. Gesbury. Evening pleasant. Saturday May 23, 68-Rose in pretty good season in the morning. During the first part of the day it was quite stormy but toward afternoon it cleared off and the sun shone pleasantly. The river has been rapidly rising during the day. A short time before dinner I and Upton crossed the river on the ferry boat and brought over to camp the remainder of our wagon which had been fished out of the water. Gray started down the line today intending to go into Cheyenne for provisions and instruments, will probably (D.V.) return next week. Upton and I were down near the Military camp this afternoon for the purpose of making a selection of ground for our next camp at which point we intend building a house and making it headquarters of engineers. Evening clear and pleasant-we also have a new moon. Sunday May 24, 68-Quite a number of wagons have arrived in our vicinity today from Idaho and the far western regions. Party well. This is Sunday morning and a bright, beautiful day. Party did not rise very early. A short time after breakfast the Indians made a dash on some pilgrims who are camped on the opposite side of the river and succeeded in capturing 19 head of stock. The first I knew of it was as I happened to leave my tent I heard the men shouting across the river-all yelling Indians! Indians! Indians! I ran to the bank where I could see about 20 men some on horseback and the others on foot endeavoring to cut the Indians off from the remainder of their horses who were feeding directly in front of me, and which they succeeded in doing….the Indians going off with those they had first captured. In the afternoon Upton and I had a "nap" in the tent. Late in the afternoon it rained some. The water in the river is still rising and is now opposite our camp. Towards night the Indian excitement died away. All well and quiet. Monday May 25, 68-The next morning broke cloudy with some rain. After dinner we had a visit from Mr. Stanton who is engaged to build our headquarters. Upton and I went down and selected the situation. This afternoon we sold one of our lots for $25.00. A short time before supper Gray, Mr. G.E. Boyd and Mr. Pike arrived in camp. Today Mr. Vincent, one of the hunters who was attacked by Indians some 12 miles from here on yesterday morning arrived here. He reports that they had to lay in the bushes and keep their rifles pointed on the savages until they abandoned them though they lost all their stock. As I now write Mr. Vincent's dog, who also attacked the Indians, lies by my side. He is a fine animal being part grayhound and bloodhound, and of gigantic size. The evening is pleasant though cold. Tuesday May 26, 68-The morning broke beautiful but by noon it turned to raining again, and continued showery through the remainder of the day. Our visitors still remain with us. The company of cavalry that started in pursuit of the Indians day before yesterday, returned this afternoon, having somehow or other recaptured one horse. Major Chesboro also returned and took supper with us. One of the hunters also was attacked by the Indians stayed with our camp last night, he being without bedding having left his at the scene of attack. He says that he must have crawled 10 miles on his hands and knees through the sage brush in order to avoid them, and at times he had to sit on his dog to keep him low to the ground so that the Indians would not find his whereabouts. At one time the dog sprang and caught an Indian's horse by the throat while he was mounted by the savage. Just before the attack was made the hunter had killed two black tailed deer, which he was forced to leave on the ground. After long exposure to the Indians, cold and hunger finally made his way back to camp, and take it all in all it may be considered as a very narrow escape for his "hair." Starlight-night-cold. Wednesday May 27,68-Morning broke fine. Genl. Bogee's force arrived this morning and crossed the river. Major Boyd and Pike left us today for the West. Some rain this afternoon. Kendall corps also arrived and brought our instruments with him. Night-cold. Thursday May 28, 68-The next day shortly after breakfast, I took the party instrument into the field and ran levels and staked out work until dinner time-returned to camp and remained idle the rest of the day. It is reported that the Indians run in Hall's forge this morning. The savages numbered some 40 or so. Mr. Pike's hunter returned from the west late this afternoon. He reports numerous fresh Indian signs, also plenty of pony and moccasin tracks, and also traced the Indians on his trail. Lively times are soon expected. M. S. Hall's train arrived this afternoon. Some rain. Bright-cold night. Our corps was joined by a new man today. Had a visit from Mr. Hawthorne. The pile drive has arrived. Party well. Friday May 29, 68-Morning broke pleasant though it stormed during the afternoon. Received a visit from Mr. Butterfield in the morning. Major Boyd and Pike returned today. Boyd presented us with a quarter of fresh antelope-we are also in receipt of some fresh elk meat. After breakfast I took the party and run levels and staked out work until nearly noon. Evening pleasant but cold. Saturday May 30, 68-After breakfast the corps went into the field and commenced preparations for staking out the North Platte bridge. Returned to camp about 11 o'clock a.m. Very pleasant morning though quite warm. Heavy frost when I got up, ground white and water frozen. Rain in the afternoon. Col. Wanless and Major Bent dined with us today. The party went fishing in the afternoon but were unsuccessful. Krause fell in the water. Upton and I had a swim towards evening: found the water very cold. The Rocky Mountains are white with snow. No Indian news. This is a cold and windy night and as I write, Upton and the Captain are making up our beds. Mr. Hurd's messenger arrived with dispatches towards evening. Party well. Sunday May 31, 68-Morning broke warm and pleasant. After breakfast I, Mr. Krause4 and the messenger took a walk into the bluffs in search of geological specimens, a few of which we found that were worth preserving. Returned to camp and found several visitors among which were Mr. Stevenson and Major Chesborough who brought me a letter from home, the first that I have received this season. We also received word that one of the bodies of our men had been discovered floating down the river and had been brought to shore. Gray went down to see if he can recognize it. He returned and reported it to be Newcomb's body. We immediately commenced digging the grave to the left of camp and in the course of an hour Col. Dodge sent the body up in a military wagon. The body presented a horrible spectacle having been in the water some 19 days-the face black and swollen it being one of the most hideous objects that I have ever seen. We had a coffin soon made for him and wrapping him in a blanket laid him to rest beneath a towering tree-close by the rushing waters of the Platte and beneath the dazzling glare of the Snowy Range. He was a young man of talents, and in the far off state of Maine his widow and two young children mourn his loss. Sic transit Gloria mundi. Requiescat in page. Our party are in receipt of fresh bear and elk meat. Major Chesborough remains with us tonight. Monday June 1, 68-The next day the party remained in camp. Gray went down with Major Chesborough to his camp. He was accompanied by the messenger. Returned between 2 and 3 o'clock p.m.-he was suffering from a severe toothache. Evening cool and pleasant. During the day I inspected the piles which are intended to be used for the Platte bridge-there were 93 in number, 6 of which I threw out. Early the next morning a train came for us from Stevenson and O'Brien's work, and I took the party and ran grade over the entire work commencing at Sta 5100 and closing at 5200. Had dinner with O'Brien. Returned to camp shortly before sunset. Having traveled about 10 miles and ran the level over 10,000 feet of embankment. Our provisions arrived today in Major Chesborough train. Heavy and numerous wagon trains on the road, most all of which are destined for this point. Tuesday June 2, 68-Slept. Cold last night. Ice in the wash basin this morning. A year ago this morning at about sunrise were attacked by Indians and succeeded in shooting one. Evening cool. Party well. Yesterday morning while at work on the "line" I found an Indian skull. Wednesday June 3, 68-The next day the party remained in camp. In the afternoon we endeavored to capture three California horses that were very wild. The men finally gave it up and shot two of them, though not fatally. After sometime we made a rope snare in a trail through some tall sage brush behind which we lay down while the horses driven through this gap where we sprung the trap and caught one by the hind leg and after a great deal of difficulty we secured him to a large cottonwood tree. The day has been pleasant and warm. Col. Dodge has returned accompanied by Gen. Auger and several other gentlemen among them is Capt. Seal. I was informed yesterday by two different parties that Indians have been seen in the vicinity in the past few days. They are probably lurking around us continually and watching every favorable opportunity for a break. Retire in good season tonight. Thursday June 4, 68-In the morning I took the party and staked out seven bents and gave the elevation for the bridge. Returned to camp about 11 o'clock a.m. in the afternoon we moved our camp to the vicinity of the bridge a.m. had nearly everything in order by night fall. Evening cool. The boys built a large campfire of sagebrush in front of the tents around which we all sat until bed time. Friday June 5, 68-When we rose the next morning it was snowing hard and continued so doing until nearly 9 o'clock a.m. Late in the morning I took the party and went up the "line" some flour miles and ran levels and staked out work for Hall. It rained so hard a portion of the time that I had to suspend work for a while and took my men under the Lee of some high rocky ledges for protection. After running up to sta 5150 I sent the instrument and two of my men back to camp and taking Mr. Krause with me I proceeded through Rocky canon as far as about 5080 where I measured up 3 changes of channels having to wade through water in order to do so which completely filled my boots and otherwise wetting us. Returned to camp with the notes about 4 been squally more or less during the entire day. Two men were shot this evening in a drunken row-one was instantly killed and the other is not expected to live. So cold this evening that we have a campfire. Mr. Hurd and Major Chesborugh arrived from below this evening. Saturday June 8, 68-The next day the party did not so on the "line." The morning we devoted to camp and in the afternoon we staked out the bents for the bridge as far as the east bank of the river. This is a beautiful moonlight night. Sunday June 9, 68-Sunday morning broke clear, warm and pleasant. The party remained in all day. In the afternoon Major Chesborough's corps paid us a visit. The day has been quite warm. The "track" is reported as having crossed Rock Creek on Thursday last. Beautiful evening. Last evening Mr. Pompelley, the division engineer, west of us, arrived in camp and remains with us this evening. Monday June 10, 68-The next morning the entire corps started for the "line" and commenced staking out the work through Brown's Pass which we completed after a hard day's work. The day has been intensely warm. Returned to camp about sunset very tired. Tuesday June 11, 68-The next day most of the corps remained in camp. After breakfast I took a horseback ride through Brown's Pass and went up the "line" as far as Stevenson's. I had a rough and rocky ride tough a pleasant one. After I returned to camp I did no work of any account during the remainder of the day. Wednesday June 12, 68-In the morning I took the party and went up the "line" and ran grade over the west portion consisting of one mile of Hall's work. Returned to camp early. Party tired. The day, especially the morning, was very warm. Thursday June 13, 68-The next day I completed the grade over the remainder of Hall's work that was in a suitable condition for me. The day has been very warm. Captain Stone left this morning with Major Chesborough for below. In the evening I and Gray called on Dr. Hurd and Mr. Burgess who are camped near us. Evening pleasant. Retire early. Friday June 14, 68-In the morning I took a transit party on the "line" and ran in a curve after considerable difficulty and delay-as I had brought out the wrong notes with me. Had dinner at Hall's camp with Mr. Stanly. The day has been extensively warm with some wind. The river is still rising rapidly. I feel pretty tired and some what lame tonight as I walked a good many miles since morning. Saturday June 15, 58-The next day the party completed staking out the bridge bents as far as the water line on the eastern shore. In the afternoon the time was devoted to stake and making some distance below Col. Dodge's camp. It has been quite warm. Towards evening Mr. Hurt arrived in camp bringing mail matter. I received two letters. In the evening we went up to the ferry and saw "Ricky". Evening pleasant. Sunday June 16, 68-Sunday morning broke clear and beautiful. The corps do no work today; and remained in the tents a greater portion of the time and passed the time as best we could, some reading, some writing letters and others sleeping. Late in the afternoon I killed a huge yellow rattlesnake in the vicinity of camp which I skinned and extracted the fangs from. Towards evening we had quite a sand storm which made it very uncomfortable for some time. The Platte River is still rapidly rising and is now partially overflowing the bottom lands. Night cool and pleasant. We go to bed early. Mr. Hurd's messenger arrived this morning. The messenger started down the "line" in the morning shortly after breakfast. The party have remained in camp all day. Weather pleasant. Nothing new. Monday June 15, 68-Monday morning Krause and I crossed the river and staked out a bridge bent on the western bank. The weather is a general thing, very warm, the day sunny although we have cool and pleasant evenings. Party well. Gray and Col. Dodge crossed the river on horseback and made a visit to the new town which the RR company is laying out about two miles distant. A portion of the U.S. forces which were located at this point have crossed to the opposite bank of the river to the new post called New Fort Fred Steele which was located a short time ago by Gen. Auger. This is an unusually cool evening and very pleasant. The river is still on the rampage. Immense numbers of wagon trains have crossed the river at the point today. Tuesday June 16, 68-Tuesday morning I took Krause and crossed the river and moved the bent on the bank one foot north for the purpose of "line." After which I ran levels over the 10 bents of the bridge for the purpose of getting elevations and grade which I marked on the piling. Yesterday the entire party crossed the river for the purpose of running in a side track but were unable to do so on account of a wrong curvature on the opposite bank. This evening Mr. Hurd's messenger arrived bringing mail matter for all the party. This afternoon we commenced breaking our wild horse and so far succeeded as to get the saddle and bridle on him. The messenger reports the end of track as about two miles west of Medicine Bow Creek. In the past few days I have heard of two cases of Indian disturbances hereabouts though nothing definite. Day broke warm and pleasant. The party have not done much of anything today. Towards evening I took elevations for 10 more bents which takes us up to bent No. 20. This afternoon, Gray and Col. Dodge were off riding. Evening cool and pleasant. I occupied the greater part of the afternoon reading Blackstone. Retire in good season. Wednesday June 17, 68-In the morning I went down to the bridge and remained until noon. In the latter part of the day I sent Krause down in my place where I joined him at about 4 o' clock p.m. The day has been quite warm. Yesterday the Indians made a dash on a camp about 15 miles above here and captured some stock and killed one man and this afternoon about 3 o'clock made an attack in our vicinity both on the town and ferry and succeeded in capturing stock. No one killed. Sunday June 21, 68-Sunday morning broke fine. After breakfast I am sorry to say that I went down to the bridge and remained until noon. Mr. Bentner and Mr. Stacy arrived from below this morning and took dinner. It was reported late last night that the Indians were fighting hard a good deal yesterday. They had already killed two men and their bodies were expected here last night. In the morning Krause went up to see them. They were lying in the grass on the opposite side of the river while some men were digging their graves. One had a very large scalp taken from him and both were horribly mutilated about the face by cuts either made with a knife or tomahawk. It is reported that in all the attacks made on yesterday that the Indians captured one hundred head of stock. Mr. Stanton also reports that the savages drove in his men who were engaged in road cutting some five miles below us. This has been beautiful day-Warm in the morning with a cool and refreshing shower in the afternoon. Mr. Bittner reports that he saw Indians this afternoon. Mr. Krause also reports the same. Mr. Huntington arrived from the "End of Track" this evening and remains with us tonight. Four men are now reported to have been killed in Saturday attack. Monday June 22, 68-On Monday I devoted the greater part of the day to the bridge giving distances. The Indians are still reported as very hostile and numerous in our vicinity. They are said to have besieged several railroad camp west of us so closely that the men are unable to go on the "line" to perform their daily work-also to have massacred several small parties of white between here and Green River. It was reported after supper this evening the great Sioux Chief Red Cloud was within fifty miles of us, however this is discredited by nearly all. I heard an old pioneer say this evening that about 300 Indians crossed the Platte River today. The water was so deep that they were forced to swim their horses. I suppose that they will soon commenced committing depredations on our side of the river. This has been a fine day-beautiful evening. Tuesday June 23, 68-In the morning the entire party including Mr. Wilson, the messenger, crossed the river and laid out a "side track" for the temporary bridge. Returned to camp about noon. Large numbers of teams, men and women, the latter principally prostitutes, are now crossing the river, some bound as far west as Green River, where they say is quite a town, and others will stop at various points on the RR route. The afternoon I spent on the bridge giving elevations for the bents and distances. A fight is reported to having taken place at Rock Creek in which the Indians got the worst of it by costing three of their number. A detachment of U.S. Cavalry and 30 mounted citizens are on the scout and have not yet returned. The telegraph wires reached the East bank of the North Fork of the Platte today, June 23, 1868, on its way across the continent. Party well. Wednesday June 24, 68-The next morning broke pleasant. I occupied my time during the forenoon on the bridge. In the afternoon we stopped the pile driving until the iron shoes arrived to prevent the battering of the piles. Late in the day a violent gale of wind arose during which we had to give elevations which we done with great difficulty owing to the storm. Mr. Basset from Seymour's division arrived and remains with us this evening-he is bound down the "line." Another rumor reaches us this evening of the massacre of the white settlement on Green River-also that four soldiers of the scouting party which left here a few days ago in pursuit of the Indians, have been killed. Mr. Basset informs us that yesterday at noon while the men were in for dinner, the Indians made a dash on their camp and succeeded in capturing a number of horses and mules-no one hurt. The wind has somewhat subsided this evening-the night is quite cool-the party retire early. Thursday June 25, 68-In the morning it commenced raining and was very cold and disagreeable until noon when it cleared off somewhat. About 11 o'clock a.m. I took the party and started into the field, where we ran grade and centers over a portion of the work in Brown's Pass. The day has been very windy and it has been with great difficulty that we accomplished our work. Returned to camp late in the afternoon. Gray informed us this evening that another band of 200 Indians crossed to this side of the river sometime today. Friday June 26, 68-The next morning immediately after breakfast we started for Brown's Pass and completed the grade by noon when we returned to camp. The afternoon we devoted to our own private purposes. This evening another man was shot but not killed; I assisted in carrying him to camp. Evening cool and pleasant. Sunday June 28, 68-Sunday morning broke warm and pleasant-the party remain in camp today. Two telegraph operators reported to us; we also had a visit from Maj. Chesborough. Evening pleasant. Monday June 29, 68-The next morning broke fine. After breakfast Gray started for Laramie City, and Upton started for the end of the track with the team for iron shoes for the piles. Wilson, the messenger, arrived last night between 12 and 1 o'clock bringing mail matter. Krause and I were up the "line" today running centers and did not return to camp until about 3 o'clock p.m. Had dinner at one of Hall's camps. The day has been very warm, in fact the warmest that I think we have had this season. Mr. Wilson's brother reports that he saw Indians today on the opposite side of the river. While I write this in my tent Wilson and Krause are out in the sage brush with pistols in hand looking for a man who was seen skulking about around a few minutes ago. This is a bright moon light night-cool and pleasant. Tuesday June 30, 68-Day broke warm and pleasant. About 10 o'clock a.m. I took a horseback ride through Brown's Pass for the purpose of inspecting the work-returned shortly after noon. The weather is intensely warm and thirsty. The afternoon I devoted to reading "Blackstone." Shortly before supper Mr. Wilson the messenger, brought word to camp that four men were killed and scalped today about two miles above camp. Evening pleasant. Mr. Upton arrived at about 11 o'clock tonight from the end of the track bringing "shoes" for the piles. Sleep in the office tonight. Wednesday July 1, 68-Early this morning, the 1st of July, our camp was visited by several distinguished visitors in the persons of Genl. Dodge, Genl. Gibbons, Mr. Oliver Ames the President of the UPRR and one other gentleman whom I did not know. They requested that I should accompany them on their walk up the "line" as far as the first "gap" east which I did at the same time giving them all the information which they desired concerning the work and surroundings. Mr. Ames, the President, represents some $40,000,000 in RR stock. He is a very plain, elderly looking gentleman whom one would not think by his personal appearance held as high a position and exerted as great an influence. After breakfast I sent Krause down to the bridge where he remained until nearly noon-they having re-commenced driving piles. I read "Blackstone." In the afternoon I spent most of my time at the bridge. The weather has been quite warm, no more Indian news. The water in the river still continues slowly to subside. Thursday July 2, 68-The following morning after sending Krause down to the bridge, I mounted an animal and rode through Brown's Pass for the purpose of inspecting the work. Returned about noon. The greater portion of the afternoon I devoted to the bridge-they drove piles until sunset. Received 17 more iron points today. Gray returned from Laramie this evening. Mr. Wilson informed me this evening that the Indians ran off 70 head of stock and killed two men last night within three miles of here. This has been a very hot sultry day, the Snowy Range to the south of us glitters in all the brightness of fields of snow on a bright sunny day in winter-and this is July. This evening I occupied the time with "Blackstone" until about 10 o'clock when I went to bed. Beautiful calm and moonlight night. Friday July 3, 68-Morning broke fine. After breakfast the party ran center and grade over the heavy embankment directly in front of camp, after which Gray crossed the river. In the afternoon the party remained in camp. Evening beautiful. Saturday July 4, 68-The following morning we completed running in centers and grade in front of camp after which I took the party and went up the "line" and gave centers and grade in Brown's Pass. Returned to camp late in the afternoon. Weather hot and dusty. Genl. G.M. Dodge and suite with a large escort of U.S. Calvary are camped near us tonight. The General is on an expedition to Oregon for the purpose of looking up an RR route through that region. Sunday July 5, 68-Sunday morning broke beautiful and I regret to say that I done some work during the day. After breakfast I and Mr. Butterfield went about one mile below Col. Dodge's camp for "----". On our walk down we caught two young magpies which we brought to camp with us. Shortly after Mr. Wilson and Gillet caught three more in the same place. Mr. Hurd arrived from the end of track this evening. Genl. Dodge's force is still camp near. Major Chesborough and Baum called on us today. Weather very hot. Had a bath in the river this afternoon. Evening cool and pleasant. Monday July 6, 68-The next morning the party rose in good season. Genl. Dodge and force, Mr. Hurd and Wilson started next-the two latte intend going to Salt Lake. Our party was joined by a new man named Clarke from Boston, Mass., today. Started up the "line" after breakfast and staked out all the bridges on our division-some 12 in number. Weather intensely hot and dusty. Returned to camp about 2 o'clock p.m. I and Upton endeavored to cross the river late in the afternoon but did not succeed. I feel very tired tonight. Shall read a few more pages of Blackstone and then go to bed. This is a beautiful evening, cool and pleasant. Tuesday July 7, 68-The following day the party remained in camp. Weather very hot and dusty. Gray and Brig. Gen. Williams of Iowa started for the end of track. Gray returned about 4 o'clock p.m. this afternoon. One man was shot and wounded in the knee and another killed. No news. Pleasant evening. Wednesday July 8, 68-The next morning after breakfast gave elevations on the two last bents of the bridge and they completed driving the piles; after which I ran last levels over about 500 feet of heavy embankment in front of camp. I occupied the remainder of the day in reading "Blackstone." Weather very hot. Mr. LeRow arrived in camp this evening bringing a written message from Genl. Dodge saying that the Indians were very bad and asking for 1000 rounds of ammunition for forces in his vicinity. Evening cool. Party up the "line" and gave grade over bridges which we had previously staked out. Weather very warm. The bridge across the Platte is progressing finely. Saturday July 11, 68-Saturday we also gave grade on bridges through "Brown's Pass" and grade through Hall's stone out. I had for my assistants-Clarke, our new man who is son of the High Sheriff of Boston, Mass., and Mr. Krause. The weather still continues warm. Yesterday while on the bridge one of the workmen was killed within sixteen feet of me by the falling of a bent. In falling he was struck on the head and then fell through the work into the water and was drowned before my eyes, notwithstanding all the assistance possible was rendered but without avail. This evening another man was shot and killed which was occasioned by some personal difficulty. Clarke and I were near by when the shooting occurred and were very much afraid that we might get a stray bullet as they were firing rather promiscuously. Met Shannon who was running centers at the end of the track today-his camp moved to our vicinity this morning. Sunday July 12, 68-This is Sunday morning July 12 and we found ice in our washbasin on getting up. Quite cold morning. I am sorry to say that I had to work during the day. Krause went up the "line" with Mr. Pompelli and returned about noon. Day pleasant. Shannon started for Laramie, will probably return next Tuesday. Evening cool and the party sits around the campfire it being cool enough for one. Monday July 13, 68-Monday morning broke fine. After breakfast we staked out a bank bent on the west end of the bridge, after which I went up the "line" with the corps and gave grade for bridges. In the afternoon I worked a gang of laborers making elevation for a bank bent after which we ran centers over the Platte River bridge. We expect to complete it by tomorrow night at which time the track is expected in. evening cool and pleasant. It is reported that the Indians have torn up the track near Medicine Bow. A detachment of U.S. Infantry are camped in our vicinity tonight who are enroute for the vicinity. I received from Shannon party tonight my old gun of Indian renown which we had in the attack of the 2 of June 1867 and which I had throughout nearly all the campaign of that year. It seemed like meeting an old friend again. I must read a chapter in "Blackstone" and then as I am pretty tired, I shall go to bed. Tuesday July 14, 68-Party rose in good season the next morning. After breakfast I gave grade for a bank bent on the next side of the river after which I gave grade on the rour bent bridge at the west entrance of Brown's Pass, when I and the party returned to the Platte bridge and devoted the remainder of the day to that which we nearly completed by night. Mr. Callahan brought word to me tonight that Mr. Pike's corps were attacked by Indians today….Mr. Pike's party firing at them until they were checked. Another party of men were attacked on yesterday. The weather has been intensely hot all day. The whistle of the locomotive was heard from here today. I was presented to Col. Dodge, Commander U.S. Forces at this point, this evening. As I write this high fires are blazing near the embankment where laborers are employed finishing the work for tomorrow as we expect the "track" in then. Another man was shot this evening. Windy night. All well. Wednesday July 15, 68-This morning the "end of track" commenced crossing the bridge which they completed at 3 o'clock p.m. laying the last bar of iron on the bridge at that time. I immediately in obedience to orders forwarded a telegraph dispatch to Mr. G. A. Evans announcing the circumstances and time after which our operator "got out his instrument" for purpose of removing to "Rollins Springs" some 20 miles distant. About 6 o'clock p.m. the first locomotive crossed the bridge being No. 83-two more, Nos. 28 and 29 followed directly afterwards. The bridge is a success. Out of a party of 25 men who were on the Sweet Water, 24 of them are said to have been killed by the Indians. Major Chesborough arrived in camp today. The day has been warm-read "Blackstone" this afternoon. Work completed on our division with the exception of "Sway tracing" the bridge which will be completed tomorrow. Party well. Thursday July 16, 68-Morning broke pleasant, though by noon it clouded up and we had quite a shower and as I happened to be out received quite a severe wetting. During my absence the boys left our bedding out in the storm, where it had been placed early in the morning for the purpose of airing, the consequence of which is that have to sleep in a wet bed tonight. An "excursion train" arrived this afternoon and remained at the bridge about one hour when it returned down the "line." Gray accompanied it as far as Laramie City. Afternoon cloudy with appearance of more rain. Mr. Vedder and party who is measuring up the track arrived this afternoon and remains with me tonight. He makes it 694 miles from Omaha to the North Fork of the Platte at this point. Evening cool. Friday July 17, 68-Received a visit from Mr. Shannon after breakfast this morning. I staked out the well for the "water" tank at station 5400; had Upton for my assistant. This has been a very hot day with but little wind. The party have remained in camp the greater portion of the time. Had a swim in the river in the afternoon. The body of the man who was drowned off the RR bridge last week was discovered today some five or six miles down the river. It will be brought up tomorrow for internment. Another man shot last night. It was said this afternoon that the "track" would reach Benton this evening. I have occupied a considerable portion of the day with Blackstone. Pleasant evening. Saturday July 18, 68-Morning broke warm. Shortly after breakfast I went over to Benton and returned about 11 a.m. After dinner I and two men went down the river some three miles in a wagon to where the body of the man who was drowned off the RR bridge had been discovered for the purpose of bringing it back to camp for internment. The body lay in the water covered with brush and stones for the purpose of keeping it submerged so that it would not decompose rapidly: as if it were exposed to the glaring rays of the sun it would soon become so offensive that it would not be possible for us to remove it. After throwing off the covering of stick and stones off the body it rose to the surface and we found that it was so swollen and heavy that it was next to impossible to carry it and we therefore took the "lines" off the horse and fastened them around his feet and then taking hold of it we dragged him feet first up the hill and to the wagon where we had placed the coffin on the ground. After some little delay we got in and nailed the boards down and then started back. The object was a horrible sight-the body swollen-the face and head bloody and hideously black-the hands perfectly awful to look upon-and the whole mass fast becoming a terrible sight to look upon. The men burned him on the bank of the river in rather a crude manner. His wife, who resides in Illinois, intended to sent for the body shortly. I was informed this evening that Mr. Butterfield, the RR bridge contractor is dead. He returned from this point to his family who resides at Omaha, some weeks ago, and died there very suddenly. Evening pleasant. Gray also arrived from Laramie. Sunday July 19, 68-Sunday morning broke pleasant. After breakfast Krause and I killed a huge rattlesnake but a short distance from camp which had 12 rattles. Krause skinned it-I took the rattles. In the afternoon we had several light showers which cooled the atmosphere considerable. Wilson, the dispatch bearer, arrived direct from Green River late this afternoon-his horses look quite jaded from his long and wearisome journey. Another man and four mules were drowned in the river today-the body has not yet been recovered. So to bed in pretty good season tonight. Monday July 20, 68-Rose early the next morning. Have occupied most of the day with Blackstone. Warm weather-although a little stormy this afternoon. Cool evening. It thundered a moment ago. Tuesday July 21, 68-The next morning, shortly after breakfast, the corps made preliminary soundings for the Howe truss bridge which is going in to the right of the one just completed. Morning very warm-after noon somewhat rainy. The first passenger train that was ever west of the North Fork of the Platte crossed the bridge about noon today-the 21 of July 1868. Men commenced digging the water tank today-they will work all night. Have been reading Blackstone most of the afternoon and evening. Cloudy night-with now and then sprinkle of rain. Wedensday July 22, 68-Morning broke very close and warm. I understand the Indians captured 120 head of stock from Creighton on land Saturday. They also made a demonstration some distance above here a few days ago. Have been reading "Blackstone" nearly all day. Parties are still at work at the water tank. Evening cool and pleasant. Early August 68-It is now some nine or ten days since the above was written-and during that time I have been suffering from quite a severe attack of sickness. In fact I have been more ill than for a number of years past. Laying on a lowly bed in this far off country and away from friends at home is rather cheerless and disturbing. But thanks to Almighty God I have so far recovered my health which is a great and inestimable blessing, only to be fully appreciated after having been deprived of it for sometime. Gray starts for Omaha tonight. The weather during the day has been quite warm for some time past although we generally have a gentle breeze blowing during the heat of the day which relieves the extreme oppressiveness which otherwise would be almost unbearable. The nights, however, are invaluably cool and pleasant so that during the heat of the summer I have slept under, as a general thing, three double blankets which is equivalent to about six ordinary ones. In addition to blankets for a covering some of the boys use Buffalo skins. About a week ago this vicinity was visited by Gen. Grant and other prominent men. I believe they were destined for the pacific coast. The water in the Platte River is very low indeed. Grasshoppers made their appearance here in vast quantities today-they appeared to be moving in a northerly direction. This is a beautiful moonlight night-some mud. The messenger started west on yesterday morning with both of Mr. Hurd's horses-he did not know when he should return as he was unable at that time to say how far west he had to go. Mr. Hurd was expected to accompany him west from the end of the track. The day has been quite hot-we have remained in camp all day. "Henry" had a visitor this afternoon and evening. Evening pleasant and we have one of the most beautiful moonlight nights imaginable. After supper Krause and Clark went up to Benton-did not return until quite late. Upton and I read our books in the office for a short time and then went to bed. August 68-Morning broke beautiful-my health is gaining at a pretty good rate. Day quite warm-though we have enough wind to add mightily to our bodily comfort. After supper Upton and I went up to the hunters and brought back with us a fine hind quarter of fresh antelope. While sitting in one of our tents a few days ago, a bullet entered the canvass making quite a hole through it and struck near my side and within about one foot or fourteen inches of me. It was quite a narrow escape from receiving an ugly wound. About a day or so previous to this while I sat at the table eating quite a number of bullets whistled over my head and within rather too close proximity to my person. I rushed out of the tent and Mr. Upton who stood near by informed me that the last shot struck in the ground between the two tents, and also that two other balls had struck in the vicinity of our camp. It is no unusual thing to hear bullets near by and at times overhead whistling with their shrill demoniac sound, yelling like wild demons. It is all owing to the carelessness of individuals in our vicinity whose reckless disregard to life and limb in their promiscuous shooting is perfectly outrageous and alarming. This is a fine evening-it can only be described as beautiful. In the morning I sent Upton to Benton with an order for 500 ft. of lumber for the purpose of covering the steam-engine used for pile driving. The party have remained quiet-during the day. A short time after breakfast I started for Benton to see about timber for stationary engine. While there the locality was visited by quite a severe wind storm which hurled immense clouds of heavy dust before and partially demolishing tents, light frame house and everything else that obstructed its pathway. Shortly after this I started on my return for camp where I arrived late in the afternoon pretty well fatigued with my exertions. In the morning before starting I had a visit Mr. Ackly, bridge contractor, and as he was desirous of looking at some building stone in the vicinity of the tunnel, I sent Upton with our team with him. They returned late in the afternoon. This evening, or afternoon rather, a man was shot through the head and robbed of quite a sum of money about three quarters of a mile above camp. The wounded man was taken over to the military forces on the opposite side of the river. Evening mild and beautiful-moon rose late this evening. As my lumber did not arrive the following morning, I sent Mr. Clarke immediately after breakfast to ascertain if possible the cause of the delay. Day warm and pleasant with some wind. Immense numbers of grasshoppers in our vicinity-the ground almost literally covered with them. Mr. Krause took a walk to the summit back of camp this morning, where he says he had a extensive and delightful view. Wilson, the messenger, arrived yesterday. Masons for the water tank arrived a few minutes ago, and are now pitching their tents on the bank of the Platte. Fine evening, cool and pleasant. August 68-For the past few days we have had delightful weather-warm days and cool nights. On Sunday morning Gray returned from the Missouri River having made a trip of 1700 miles in one week. Water in the river is fast receding. The work on the switch opposite camp is completed-the erection of the water tank is also fast hastening towards completion. Indians are reported as having been see within the past few days. During the past week I have suffered more or less from the aggravating pains of a toothache which I am thankful now to be able to say has about entirely disappeared - nothing remaining to remind me of it except it be the swelling inside my mouth that has not yet completely disappeared. A week ago last Friday we were occupied during the greater portion of the day assisting Mr. Ackley in storing his goods in our camp. He at this time having no men or conveyance, we rendered him all the help in our power by furnishing our team and giving our personal aid. During the morning I suffered intensely from toothache. Gray sent down work to me this morning that he wanted me to get the party and instrument's together and be4 over at the water tank at 5 o'clock p.m. where he would meet us with a train when we would go some eight miles down the "line" in the neighborhood of the tunnel for the purpose of running a "line" or side track into the stone cuts for Mr. Ackley to procure material for the construction the bridge over the north fork of the Platte. I according shipped the party on the first train down which was "flagged." Gray was not on board; and I was informed that he was on the train following. As I did not know exactly where to stop but understood that it was about eight miles from the river and two miles west of the tunnel, when I supposed that we had got about that distance I went forward over the "flatcars" crawled over the "tender" and onto the engine and requested the engineer to slack his train so that I could get my men off. He accordingly done so and we were landed by the track, and I then found that we were some two miles from the point where we desired to commence work. However, we had no other alternative but to shoulder our instruments and trudge forward on foot and it would soon be night and too late to work. After a short walk we arrived at the scene of our labors which work we completed as far as we were desirous of doing by about nightfall. They promised at the "bend" to send a locomotive for our return about dark; we therefore, instead of waiting in the rock cuts by which we were hemmed in and surrounded by, walked on to the tunnel where we proposed to await the arrival of the engine. Here are camped a few men the remnants of a grading camp and also two watchmen whose duty it is to walk through and inspect the tunnel after the passage of every train so that if any rocks are detached and fall on the track or any other accident occurs, they can signal the danger to both up and down trains. I and Upton walked down to the grading camp in hopes of finding some whiskey or pain killer for my face as I was suffering considerably, but failed in procuring anything. One of the men said that there was some pain killer around the camp somewhere and kindly made search with his lantern which interrupted his comrades in their game of cards, but was forced to make a return of non est inventus. We therefore returned to the watchman's quarters which was a rude hole dug out in the side of the bluff. Here we found our party anxiously awaiting the arrival of our engine-some expecting it-others partially or totally giving it up. We therefore made up our minds to make the best of it possible under the circumstances-one of which was the fact that we were supperless and wait the UP train which was due between the hours of 1 and 2 o'clock in the morning. I could have stood this very well if it were not for the testures that I was experiencing with my face. However, I lay down on the bare ground inside the wretched hut and endeavored to "grin and Bear it" as the expression is until "train time" when the guard promised us his lantern to signal the train. The hours of night passed slowly and each of us were absorbed in our solitary thoughts when we were started by the return of the guard who had been making an inspection of the tunnel and who informed us that upon a second thought he could not loan us his lantern to signal the Up train as his orders were to stop no trains unless there was danger and that we had better go to St. Mary's station. Such was his advice - to us it was startling. Where was St. Mary's? How many miles off? And numerous other questions were asked by the party to better post ourselves. We found that it was three miles further down the road. Now three miles is not much especially for engineers who are accustomed to pedestrians that is in daylight and over passable roads but here we were in a dark night, loaded down with heavy instruments, tired and hungry-walking over the rough and uneven track with the danger of pitching headlong down unknown bridges or else falling through between the cross-ties and bruising ourselves more or less severely. A council of war was called-some proposed that we should endeavor to remain all night at the grading camp with such accommodations as we could find-which in all probably would have been to sit upon an old scraper or plow beam until the stars faded before the majesty of the rising sun. However, the "crowd" was imbued with democratic principles and as the majority said advance we took up the line of march in Indian file. Tramp, tramp, on we went. Naught broke the deep stillness of gloomy night save the occasion shrill scream of the coyote wolf or an occasional whistle of some of the boys who were far in the rear, probably for two purposes: one to let those far forwarded know that they were loosing their distance and perhaps to assure themselves that they were not afraid of Indians, wolves or any thing else of the savage tribe that abounds or might abound in this Rocky mountain region. Tramp, tramp, on we go. Now all at once one calls out, "Say there on ahead, we are leaving Mr. Ackley behind. Some 50 years of age, who being the bridge construction accompanied us to examine the stone which he is to use for abutments, piers, etc., we according wait until he regains his distance, when he declares that there is no hurry and that we had better moderate our pace. All in good spirits, but awfully hungry with the exception of myself who still suffer with my face. On we go again, tramp, tramp. Occasionally the cry rings out by the advance guard of Bridge. Bridge, which is echoed back from one to another when with slow and cautious steps we cross from one tie to another careful not to make a mistake which would precipitate us between the timbers and no doubt injure us to a greater of less degree-to say nothing about the damage that our instruments would be almost certain to receive. After continuing our walk some time longer, we were at last rewarded by the faint glimmer of a light in the far distance. About this time the express train from Benton thundered past with its one steady eye of fire glaring with the intense fury of a demon and the hissing steam, the groaning machinery the faint glimmer of passing light-the engineer and fireman as the plied their midnight task, lighted up by the red glare of the furnace looked like demons and the long train of rushing cars as they flashed swiftly by made a picture never to be forgotten. If any Indians were in sight they must have stood spellbound by the, to them, awe inspiring sight. After a short time we arrived at the section house at St. Mary's where notwithstanding the lateness of the hour we prevailed upon the mistress of the house to give us such refreshments as were at hand, after which we reclined on benches which were scattered around the room and endeavored to procure a few moments of repose and rest before the arrival of the UP bound train. My tooth paining me sadly I arose and went out of doors. The guard was walking around with his gun and lantern to see that all was right. While out I perceived the train approaching and therefore awakened the boys. We got on board of the train and in a short time were on the return to camp. However, we were not so fortunate as we supposed we were. Notwithstanding the promise of the conductor to stop at the bridge so that we could get off, the engine driver having a light locomotive (as we were informed) deemed it not best to stop as the bridge is on a heavy grade, some 36 feet, and therefore we passed by our camp which we could see in dim outline beneath us enveloped in the dark and gloomy shades of night. On we thundered, bound for Benton. On our arrival here, and after a few moments spent in conversation upon the oft argued point of what was best to do, we determined to shoulder our instruments and take the march backward to camp, which was some two miles distant, and where in the course of an hour we arrived tired and run out. To bed was the cry from all of us and after taking something to ease my face I relapsed into heavy slumbers and only awoke with the sun shining down brightly upon our tents. A short time ago we had a visit from Mr. G. M. Clarke called to visit his son who is a member of our corps and remained the greater portion of two days with us. When he left us for his return home, he highly complimented us, and warmly urged that if I ever came in his vicinity to be sure and call upon him and he promised that we should be favorably impressed with Boston. Mr. Clarke has been has been High Sheriff of Boston, Mass., for the past 13 years. The weather for the past few weeks has been generally pleasant. Fine, warm days and cool nights, with an occasional rain storm which, however, would soon clear off and the sun would brightly cheer the face of nature again, and reminding us that if we too had our cloudy moments, God's blessings were showered upon us also. The Eternal mountains still present their snow crowned peaks, undiminished and as dazzling in this snowy whiteness as if they were not exposed to the burning heat of an August sun. Time passes and all things preserve the even tenor of their way. The sun rises with all its accustomed splendor and sets in all its magnificence. Work progresses and this mighty enterprise is still thundering through the rock bound cliffs of the stern old giants of North America - the shrill scream of the Iron Horse awakes echoes that were never before disturbed except by the explosions of Heaven's artillery-the dismal howl of the wolf-the angry growls and snarls of the other hungry beasts of prey-and the awful, blood-freezing war whoop of the revengeful savage as he raises on high the trophy which he has wrenched from the bleeding head of some poor emigrant who is seeking in the far west a home for his wife and little ones, and whose bones now lie bleaching in some lone and dreary spot visited only by the coyote and the dark winged raven. In the once happy home in the far off east, the now pale and faded wife is trying to still and quiet the fears that are constantly rising, her eyes fill with tears as she looks upon her precious household treasures who are in the tender years, as she hears the solemn blast of the approaching winter and as one little prattler come to her knees and with her innocent and infant lips asks "When will father come home?" God help you my child he will never come again. About a week ago our vicinity was visited by unusual Indian excitement. It was well known by many that Indian depredations were being committed again to the south of us, and we knew not how soon the savages might be lurking around us. Late one afternoon we received a dispatch which was forwarded throughout this entire region from Gen. Sherman, that the Indians were on the move and that all must be on the alert as they might make a demonstration at any time. Rumor also reached us that three thousand warriors under "Red Cloud" the great Sioux, or one of his chiefs, were at Medicine Bow, and were on the trail for this point. This created considerable excitement. Men could be seen conversing in groups, and walking to and fro in an agitated manner. The following day 300 Indians were reported as having been seen at Rawlins Springs, although they made no demonstrations on the persons who were camped there. The people were so alarmed and frightened that they sent immediately for troops to protect them. I was informed that a larger wagon train had been attacked and every soul massacred with the exception of one or two who managed to escape. This circumstance occurred some 40 miles north of us. In our camp we have all our arms loaded and in readiness for any emergency. We have them continually by us at night so in case of a surprise there will be no time lost in hesitation or confusion. The bright and magnificent moonlight nights which we are now having are very favorable to Indian depredations. However, I sincerely hope that we may be spared the horrors of anything of the kind. The weather for the past ten days has been pleasant. We have had some warm days and an occasional rain storm accompanied by wind. The nights are invaluably cool and delightful. We have recently refitted up our camp by putting up a partition in the office and in the additions of a fine new tent which we have placed to the rear of our former quarters. Upon the whole we are very comfortable. Gray has gone to Green River on business, will probably return in about a week. Mr. Ackley has commenced digging out the foundations for the Howe Truss Bridge. Our party have not much work to do at present with the exception of the care of camp. I devote my time to "Blackstone". Yesterday was fine, although we had a cool fresh wind blowing most of the day. No news of any importance. This morning before rising we had two quite severe rain squalls; and while at breakfast we were visited by quite a severe rain storm accompanied with thunder. As I now write, the rain is falling rapidly and the atmosphere is very damp and chilly. Night before last our mules were stolen and we have been unable to find any trace of them. As we had no means of pursuing, I sent to the cavalry commander and Upton also went over to Gen. Stevenson at Fort Steele, but was unable to procure any assistance. No further Indian news the excitement seems to have quieted down. The wolves are very numerous in our vicinity and hardly a night passes but what we hear their discordant voices, as if they were holding a grand pow-wow. Last night they made considerable noise which caused the dogs at the Fort on the opposite side of the river to keep up continual barking. September 19, 68-On the night of the 19 of Sept., our vicinity was visited by quite a severe snow storm. The storm commenced about dark and continued throughout almost the entire night. The weather has been quite raw and cold, and we find in necessary to keep a fire in our tents for comfort. We are at present very nicely fixed having received new stoves and other conveniences for enjoying camp life. Upton and I have a large tent to ourselves. Krause and Clark having gone east. This addition of room makes it very pleasant. Yesterday we occupied a portion of the time in staking out the west abutments of the Platte Bridge in which we succeeded to our entire satisfaction. The Indian war is reported as being carried on with great vigor in the southern regions and large bodies of Savages are on the move northward. Nothing of any great importance, however, has transpired of late. It is to be hoped that the border men of Colorado and other points will wage this war even to extermination. I have no sympathy with the Red Devils notwithstanding the halo of romance by which they are surrounded or the numerous and frequent comments by the people of the east who, secure in their happy and peaceful homes, know naught of the wild and awful horrors of the far west. I, for one, have been through two many terrible days; have been surrounded by too many perils-know too much of the savage details of the Indian warfare to feel any regard for their prosperity, or any compunction in their downfall. Let the feathered crest droop-the dusky form be bowed down even to the dust, and be the gleam of their wild eye darkly dimmed, let the savage strength of the demoniac Indian be broken-may their dwelling places and habitations be destroyed-may the greedy crow and the dark winged raven hover over their silent corpses-may the coyote feast upon their stiff and festering carcasses, and the sooner these things come to pass the better; then no more will resound the wild war whoop-no longer will the fierce flames hiss around the cabin of the pioneer while his bleeding form and those of his mutilated wife and little ones compelled to endure the horrors of torture, or witness his dear friend and beloved ones die inch by inch. Farewell thou savage! You who have held high carnival since the early days of our country's history, your pathway has been marked by the blood of your victims step by step, day by day and year by year you have been tottering and falling down the long and gloomy vista of declining years, into the heavy depths of the never to be forgotten past, we can see the ghostly and weird-like forms of your forefathers beckoning to you onward-to your extinction. Your name may still remain-historians and romantics may weave a fairy halo around your memory but education and civilization will be satisfied when you cease to be. Today has been quite warm, the sun shining warm and bright and giving to the landscape a cheerful aspect. The nights are cool and we generally have a fire in our stove after supper which makes the interior of our tent cheerful. We occupy our evenings in social enjoyment, engaged sometimes with Sir Walter Scott's narratives of the times which slumber with the past, and whenever any of our friends from Ackley's call in to spend the evening-have a quiet game of acumen which assists to while away the long evenings. Work on the bridge is progressing slowly, I am in hopes, however, that the masonry will be completed by December. Upton has gone to see if there is any mail for camp. I hope that I shall receive a letter. The boys have engaged for the past few days, as the occasion offered, to procure quite a number of Moss Agates among which they have some fine specimens. VanDusen found quite a large handful this afternoon which we will add to his already large collection. Our country in this vicinity begins to present the aspect of the scan and yellow leaf, preparatory to the advance and neigh of the busy king of frosts. The mountains are covered with the new fallen snow and lay in peaceful silence. The bluffs in our vicinity are covered with dry and faded grass-the sage brush has turned to its yellow hue. The rocks present a cold and gray aspect and the rapid waters of the Platte are rushing, foaming and thundering down deep and narrow gorges-over steep and rocky precipices and lying beneath the sturdy cliffs in their deep, dark blue beauty. The wolf at times startles us in the still hour of midnight with their disconsolate and weird-like howl, the few species of wild game that still remain unmolested by the long rifle of the hunter startle among the wild canyons as if frightened at their own shadows. The great, lazy crows wheel and circle in slow monotonous flight hovering over the carrion upon which they make their daily repast seeming like some evil spirit casting their dark shadows upon the earth. The whole landscape is covered with the beautiful haze of autumn. Inanimate nature is lovely and one cannot help but believe in the great and good God that formed this goodly prospect. Who can doubt his existence, His wisdom and His power? Who can say that all this is the making of chance, and that it is not the handiwork of irresistible power. Cast your eyes around you, thou infidel. Behold, with the very organ which a generous God has blessed you with, the wondrous beauties and magnificence with which you are surrounded. Behold the everlasting and gigantic hills, the green grass and flowers and waving trees and tell me it is all the workings of chance. Behold the mighty waters now lying before us in peaceful beauty and anon surging and hurling its terrific and mighty billows-thundering with solemn and awful shudderings against the rockbound cliffs which shakes and trembles like the autumn leaf before the howlings of the wintry blast-and tell me that the peaceful quiet and the mighty surge is the work of chance. See the glories of yonder rising sun-witness the soft and silver radiance of the pale moon as she rides in sublime beauty across the azure field of heaven, and see the glistening of yon countless millions of stars which surround her pathway and each one twinkling with the splendor of a diadem. Who and what studded the blue expanse before us with these countless worlds if they were not placed there by the hand of Almighty God. On Monday last a band of 60 mounted Indians were seen over the high range of bluff to the north of camp-they were on the trail moving southward. This is quite a large party and their being in this vicinity creates considerable speculation as to the movements. It is probably that they will go to the Medicine Bow country. The weather is beautiful. Since our last snow storm it could not have been finer. Warm sunny days with cool nights. Work progressing slowly on the bridge. The eastern abutment will in all probability be completed by the last of next week. Yesterday, Mr. Upton started after a band of elk before breakfast which made their appearance at the vicinity of Brown's Pass but failed in getting a shot. It was but a short time ago that a band of 37 passed through the bluffs on the west side of the river out of which one was killed. after breakfast, Upton had quite a hunt-saw antelope and one wolf. He also reports moccasin tracks on the ridge in the bottom of a dry creek. We have plenty of music almost every night from the wolves around camp. Last night, one came very close to my tent and woke me up with his discordant yells. A few minutes ago a party of ladies and gentlemen from the Fort crossed the river on horseback and have gone out for a pleasure ride. As the day is bright and sunny, they will have a pleasant time, providing they meet with no Indians. Gray has gone to the Laramie Plains-will probably return tomorrow. The Indians made and attack on Sunday and killed and scalped four men besides severely wounding another. This occurred about 14 miles from our camp. My only regret is that it was not "Peace Commissioners" and other prominent men in the east who are continually making "treaties" with the red skins that are never kept and who are opposed to us western men taking care of our Indian affairs in our own way instead of these poor fellows whose bloody bodies now lay in the darkened grave. If they were the victims, instead of morning I should most heartily rejoice. We the pioneer of the Great West have fallen like autumn leafs before the treacherous savage, while these men in the far off east preach of our inhumanity to the Indian while we are defending the prostrate forms of our companions and our own lives and at the same time opening up this vast and almost unexplored region to civilization and the world. Upon the heads of these men rest all the precious blood spilt and I would that I could witness their destruction by these same hands-I should be tempted to wrench one of their scalps off for my own gratification. The wolves in our vicinity are becoming very numerous and hardly a night passes without some of their vocal music. Gray returned from Laramie on yesterday morning bringing orders to reduce our party which he accordingly done. Upton is now watchman. He started for Cheyenne last night; will probably return tomorrow. I stayed alone last night and at one time was quite startled by a very unusual light which made me jump from my bed under the impression that the sage brush plains were on fire. Such, however, was not the case. "Out of doors" it looked stormy. Dark and heavy clouds were flying athwart the face of the moon which cast a pale and feeble light upon the hills and mountains. The wind whistled by in mournful cadences, moaning and wailing as if it was the voices of departed spirits. I returned to my couch-covered my head up snugly and was soon in the land of dreams. Today has been cloudy and windy. Have spent the entire day in the office-been rather lonesome. Work on the bridge progressing rather slowly. I am afraid that winter will find them before they complete the masonry. Since my last note we have had two snow storms and several days of quite cold weather: In fact we found some difficulty in keeping our "office" comfortable. The wind whistled with the violence and was laden with the frosts of winter. The weather has, however, cleared up and today is quite fine and comfortable notwithstanding snow in on the ground and the sky is somewhat cloudy. Day before yesterday, an Indian scout was discovered but a short distance from the track and upon the approach of the parties who saw him he retreated over the bluff where he lay down in the grass and kept an eye upon all their movements. A train was thrown from the track by a band of Indians who had placed obstructions before it and the fireman killed. I passed over the spot only a few hours previous. On my return I was compelled to wait some time for the completion of the repairs of a RR bridge which the savages had burned at 10 o'clock the night previous and into which a freight train barely escaped plunging. On Saturday a band of five hundred Indians made their appearance before Fort Saunders and killed two men there. It was immediately dispatched along the entire "line" for all persons to be on the alert and it was probable that they were moving on the northern trail and might give us some trouble. It has created considerable excitement in our in our vicinity. Work on the bridge progressing very slow, owing in great part to the difficulty which the contractor has with his men. I now occupy a great part of my time with "Kent's Commentaries" and "Blackstone." Thursday November 19, 68-The weather still continues fine. Today the sunshines quite warm and we find it comfortable with our door open. No further Indian news. Work is progressing very slow on the bridge mostly on account of the difficulties which Mr. Ackley has had with his men the greater portion of whom have left him which circumstances makes his force at present quite feeble. He has also experienced some delay on account of the non-arrival of stone. The carpenters are now occupied in framing the timbers for pier no. 3 which will be in the stream. A portion of the troops at the Fort on the west bank of the river have moved out of their tents into their new quarters which are built of timber and are quite comfortable as well as prepared for any severe storms which we are apt to be visited by at this season of the year. Mrs. Hopkins, an accomplished lady, lately from the east, and who resides with Mr. Stanton, while out hunting in company with some gentleman on day before yesterday, shot and killed an antelope with her own hand. This would be considered quite a feat by some persons and especially by ladies who constantly spend their time surrounded by the luxuries of city life. The Indians made a demonstration a few days ago in the vicinity of Fort Saunders killing one man. Also, while Gen. Gibbons, with a party of soldiers as an escort, was out hunting among the Black Hills, his party was surprised by them and one man killed. The General, however, with the remainder of his command returned without further molestation from the red devils. They are reported as very thick in that vicinity which makes it dangerous for small parties to stray very far from camp. March 5, 1869-Since my last entry we have passed though a winter which in our locality has been comparatively mild. Our location is in a deep and narrow mountain valley and we are surrounded on all sides with hills and mountain s of greater of less magnitude which in a great measure shelters us from the cold and biting winds which abound during the winter season. However, in the vicinity of the Medicine Bow they have had immense falls of snow especially during the past month of February and for the last three weeks ending at this date we have had no communication with the East-being completely snowed in. The winter has been passed very pleasantly in our camp and although at times it was monotonous, still we look back to it with considerable pleasure. The Indians have not troubled us at all-we have been blessed with good weather and have received many of the comforts of this life and have not the slightest reason to complain. Wild game has been found in great abundance…such as mountain sheep, antelope and elk. Large herds of the two last mentioned have been in our vicinity-some times as many as five hundred in a drove. Consequently we have lived upon the "fat of the land" as the expression is-that is-as regards wild meat. The officers at the Fort occupying a good share of the leisure in the pastime of hunting and are generally very successful-coming into camp laden with the spoils of the chase. Occasionally, on Sunday, we attend divine services with our military friends at which time the Chaplain as a general thing preaches very appropriately although I am sorry to say that he often has rather a slim attendance. On last Tuesday two small war parties of savages made their appearance near our vicinity. They killed one white man and in an attack which they made, the hunter "Joe" killed one of them. This is the first that has been of them in our neighborhood at least since last fall. One of the hunters reports an open valley or plain from the Sweet Water river to this point-distance 40 miles-in which the Indians could make sharp descents upon us if they so minded. A portion of the troops have started in pursuit of the Indians, thought with what success I am unable to say as they have not yet returned. A letter from General Sheridan has been received, dated in the field, January 31, which states that the Cheyenne and Arapahos report that another engagement between the forces under command of Colonel Hays of the 30 regular cavalry and Indians took place between the 15th and 20th of January at a point ten days' travel west of the Wichita Mountains in which the troops were successful totally destroying an Indian Village and killing eight of the savages. This afternoon we have had quite a severe storm of snow and while I now write it still continues. Thought as I looked out a minute ago I fancied that the clouds were breaking away. The mason work on the bridge is nearly completed. We, in all probability, will finish this week. Just about nightfall two hunters came in with a fine antelope on each of their saddles. It is said that two men, recently had a desperate fight with a party of Sioux Indians in the mountains. It appears that the men had been out prospecting and coming suddenly upon the Indians' camp, they pitched into the redskins, regardless of numbers or consequences, and succeeded, after an hour's fighting, in killing quite a number and putting the rest to flight. The trophies taken were five white scalps-apparently lately killed. A short time ago, Gen. Stevenson, the commander of the Fort, killed an elk a few miles from here which weighed 1,000 pounds. This is the largest elk ever killed in this part of the country except on that a hunter, named Jack Petty, killed which weighed near 1,300. One hunter in our vicinity has killed, during the winter, some 900 Elk, Antelope and Deer. March 22, 69-Another demonstration was made by the Indians this morning about three miles from our camp. The circumstances as near as I can learn are as follows: A party of teamsters with six, six mule teams-in all thirty-six head-started from the Fort to haul some timber to be used in the erection of buildings for the troops. When about three miles out they were suddenly attacked by a large party of Indians who came upon them pell-mell. At the first onset they desisted their teams and ran for their life. However, the savages captured two of them and all the stock. The remainder of the men get into the Fort uninjured after quite an exciting race. Parties, as soon as possible, returned to the scene of attack to recover the two dead bodies taking it for granted that they had been massacred. When they arrived at the spot, they could not find the slightest trace of them. They are probably prisoners and no doubt with have to endure their horrid tortures until death relieves them of their sufferings. May God help them. The masonry on the bridge was completed on the 20th of the present month. Forces are now moving for the Green River. Numerous bands of Indians are reported as having been prowling around in our vicinity during the past few days. None of them, however, have approached near enough to the Fort to create any serious alarm. The men are pretty watchful and keep a sharp lookout. April 7, 69-We had the first thunder. Some little rain has also fallen. Weather warm and pleasant with light wind. Sage brush beginning to look quite green. Large numbers of elk and antelope have been killed within the last week and brought into the Fort. A company of cavalry is expected here soon. The young ladies of the Fort were out walking this afternoon, among whom was the "Belle of Fort Steele," et al. The river has broken up and is now about clear of ice-some little, however, is still running. Upton has abandoned his position as night watchman and is now waiting the return of Gray from Great Salt Lake City when he expects to receive further orders one way or the other. Perhaps he will return to the Miltown River. Report reached us on yesterday that the great Sioux Chief "Red Cloud" had appeared with about 7,000 warriors before Fort Fetterman. The Fort sent a scout for aid to Ft. Saunders where they immediately dispatched several companies of troops to their assistance. Gen. Stevenson from this post sent on yesterday morning, Lieut. Gormy with a detachment of 50 mounted men in the direction of Fetterman with eight-days provisions and 80 rounds of ammunition per man. News was received this morning that Red Cloud had already demanded the surrender of the Fort. Although there is no account on any fighting having taken place between the garrison and the Indians. How it will end we shall see probably in a few days. I see that Gen. Grant has sent a Peace (2) commission of Quakers and other philanthropic men to our western borders. I sincerely hope the Red Devils may scalp everyone of them. What do these men, fresh from the heart of civilization, reared in the lap of luxury, who never saw a hostile Indian in their lives, know about our condition or the character of the savage so as to be able to settle these gigantic war. When will our government take the right course in the matter. Has there not already been enough blood shed that we are to be again cursed with the imposition of another Peace Commission-the farce which our public men have played for the past four years. Farce it has been and farce the sequel it will be: the bright red blood from our pioneers will still continue to flow, the wives and families will still be tortured and slain, and these Red Devils will triump over the weakness and childish imbecility of those in Washington who attempt to control our Indian difficulties, and over the helpless and defenseless condition of the honest settler of the Far West. O! If we might only be allowed the boon of taking care of our domestic affairs. If we might be allowed to regulate and control this Indian war in our own way, we would save treasures in money and blood, and quickly put an end to this incessant warfare. If the government would withdraw every soldier west of the Missouri river and commission the governors of the different territories to raise volunteer regiments from among the western men, give them absolute power in the matter, in but a short time peace would reign and the savage strength of the Indian on the American continent would be forever gone; as a powerful race they would cease to exist and what remained might wander among their former hunting ground only to wail a requiem to the spirits of these departed warriors who have preceded them by only a few years to the good and happy hunting ground of the Great Spirit. There was fighting going on all day Monday at Fort Fetterman, the Indians, however, getting the worst of it. Lieut. Goring with his party of scouts have returned. They report that they followed down the river some 80 miles but were unable to discover any Indians, although they found numerous fresh signs and trails. After remaining in the Fort, long enough to refresh his men and animals, he started on a scout with his detachment for the "Sweet Water" region and after an unpleasant trip of some five days, owing to the bad weather, he returned without having accomplished anything of moment. The military across the river are momentarily expecting an attack on this point. During all last night they kept their pickets out on the bluffs which surround our camp on the north and west; and at noon today a small party of mounted men went into the hills north of camp. The expedition has not yet returned so I do not know what discoveries they may have made, though I expect they will not see anything as any Indian which might be in our vicinity would be under cover and never show themselves util they have everything "cut and dried" as the saying is. The weather still continues somewhat unpleasant-although we have no cold-it is wet and disagreeable. Occasionally, we have a flurry of snow-now rain with a little hail-and now and then a wind storm. This morning while lying in my bed, I heard the notes of a "meadow lark" the first that I have heard this spring. It really sounded very cheering and pleasant-quite a reminder that winter had passed away and summer was coming around again. 'Tis Finished! This great and mighty enterprise that spans a continent with iron and unites two oceans. What a great event it is! What Important results will follow. An unexplored and unknown country will be developed. Civilization will advance with great strides. In the place of desolate and barren plains which are now the home of the Buffalo, Antelope and various other species, will be found the thrifty roof of the honest and hard working sitter, upon whose hearth stone the fire of peace and plenty will brightly burn. The mountains and forests, now the haunt of the savage, will disappear before the sturdy blows of the processor-the rich deposits of the precious ore will be separated by the ingenuity and diligence of man until our country will glisten with unparalleled magnificence. The first spike on this great work was driven at Omaha, Nebraska, December 2, 1863; the last spike was driven at Promontory [Summit] Point May 10, 1869. Throughout the entire construction of the road, commencing with the first preliminary surveys or explorations long before any actual work had been done, myself and two brothers have been identified in a very prominent manner with the undertaking. Upon us has devolved a great amount of responsibility and trust and I maybe pardoned of the charge of egotism if I say that our personal exertions are of considerable note. We have done our share towards the completion of this great event. Many and many have been the days in which I have proceeded to my duty at the risk of my life. Many an evening after our day's work has ended have I returned thanks to Almighty God for his gracious care for us during the seen and unseen danger which we had encountered. Months and years of toil, privations and all the exposure that wear perceptibly upon man has been our lot. Exposed to severe winters-lying upon the cold and frozen ground. Experiencing the pangs of hunger and thirst and all the numerous and exciting events that challenge existence among the western wilds. I have been aroused from my quiet and peaceful slumber-my dreams of loved ones at home-by the wild war whoop of the Indian. I have seen them fall before our bullets and, alas, I too have seen my friends and acquaintances murdered and mutilated in the most horrible and blood thirsty manner by these demons in human form. Their day has, however, nearly ended-the time is fast hastening when the savage of our time will only be remembered in the pleasant tales of fiction. My father, Fenner Ferguson, was the first Chief-Justice of this country. In the halls of the Congress of the U.S. he aided and supported the project of the Pacific RR-his sons have followed-though in a more humble way, his great and good example. Let the good change go on, the time is coming and fast too, when in the sense it is now understood, There will be no West. A. N. Ferguson 1869 |
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