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Original journals of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, 1804-1806

printed from the original manuscripts in the library of the American Philosophical Society and by direction of its committee on historical documents
  
  
  
  
  
  
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expand sectionVIII. 

25th. December Christmass Tuesday

I was awakened before Day by a discharge of 3 platoons
from the Party and the french, the men merrily Disposed, I
give them all a little Taffia and permited 3 Cannon fired, at
raising Our flag, Some Men Went out to hunt & the others
to Danceing and Continued untill 9 oClock P.M. when the
frolick ended &c.[41]

 
[41]

Biddle says: "We had told the Indians not to visit us, as it was one of our
great medicine days." Gass says : "Flour, dried apples, pepper, and other articles
were distributed in the different messes to enable them to celebrate Christmas in a
proper and social manner." Three rations of brandy were served during the day,
which was mainly spent in dancing; no women were present save Charboneau's three
wives, who were only spectators.—Ed.