dispelled. They rushed forward like a joyous band of children, singing
and dancing. They had been to their wigwams, found the treasures which
had been left there, and their joy was inexpressible. They returned
late in the evening to their homes; but in the morning the grateful
creatures returned, bearing an abundant supply of game and corn. La
Salle richly rewarded them.

Nature seemed in sympathy with these blessings of peace, for the sun,
emerging from the clouds, shone down serenely upon these children of a
common Father, and the weary voyagers, greatly cheered, again launched
their canoes upon the solitary lake.

Thus they continued, day after day, paddling along the apparently
interminable journey to the South. They passed the spot where the
majestic city of Chicago now stands. It was two hundred years ago. Not
even an Indian wigwam was seen to break the expanded and dreary
solitude. A constant succession of storms was encountered until they
reached the foot of the lake. Any one who has witnessed the grandeur
with which the ocean-like billows of Lake Michigan often break upon the
western shore, will wonder how it was possible for those frail canoes
to ride over such surges. Every night it was necessary to land, and
often the storm detained them for many hours.

Having reached the foot of the lake, they turned to the eastward. Here
they found a milder clime and more tranquil waters. Deer and wild
turkeys were very abundant, and their Indian hunter kept them supplied
with game. The trees were festooned with grape-vines, which were laden
with the richest clusters of the delicious fruit. They found a spot at
the foot of the lake so attractive in its landscape beauty, so
abounding in fruit and game, that, weary as they were with their
arduous voyage, they drew their canoes on shore for a few days of rest.

The labor of one or two hours constructed a comfortable cabin for the
accommodation of all. Fuel was abundant for the cheering camp fire. The
lake furnished the choicest fish, and the forest supplied them with
venison and every variety of game. Having feasted upon the most
delicious of hunters' fare, they wrapped themselves in their blankets,
and enjoyed that rich sleep which is one of the greatest blessings of
the worn and the weary.

Moccasined footprints had been seen on the sands of the beach,
indicating that there were Indians near. One of the men out hunting at
a little distance from the camp, came upon a l