Extract from letter to editors of the Baltimore Federal Gazette, under
date of St. Louis, September 23, 1806:[1]
Concerning the safe arrival of Messrs. Lewis and Clark, who went 2 years and
4 months ago to explore the Missouri, to be anxiously wished for by everyone, I
have the pleasure to mention that they arrived here about one hour ago, in good
health, with only the loss of one man who died. They visited the Pacific
Ocean, which they left on the 27th of March last. They would have been
here about the 1st of August, but for the detention they met with from snow and
frost in crossing mountains on which are eternal snows. Their journal will no
doubt be not only importantly interesting to us all, but a fortune for the worthy
and laudable adventurers. When they arrived 3 cheers were fired. They really
have the appearance of Robinson Crusoes—dressed entirely in buckskins. We
shall know all very soon—I have had no particulars yet.
