CHAPTER II.

Leaving the Oil Regions for a good time “Out West.”—A
period of travel, etc., of four-and-a-half months to the Missouri
River-——Then crossing the plains to Salt Lake with wagon train
in 60 days.—Our train, ete.; my team, ete; first camp in a storm.
—Fording the Platte river with its quicksand bottom ; big teams,
ete. My first drink; delusion in distance; game, ete.—Freighting;
life and government on the plains.—A comprehensive account of

the region from the Missouri River to Salt Lake Valley.