York might cast up for the relief of Astoria; but waited in vain. At last, by the arrival of the ship Albatross, Captain Smith, from Canton, he was no longer in doubt as to the declaration of war; and this increased his anxiety to get back to Astoria. Chartering, therefore, the ship Albatross, he sailed in her, after a ruinous delay, and arrived safe at Astoria on the 20th of August. And this brings the parties once more to Astoria, and closes the transactions of the year.
{243} CHAPTER XV
Meeting of the partners—Warm discussion—M'Kenzie—Eloquence
of the times—Reasons for dissolving
the company—Dissenting partners converted—Final
resolve—The deputy's powers—Departure of the
brigade—A canoe lost—A man's leg in jeopardy—Rumours
at the narrows—Snake party—Rumours
renewed—Tummeatapam's counsel—Hostile appearance
at the forks—Number of Indians—Nez
Percés' fleet—Fears of the whites—Indian visit—Strong
guard—Mr. Clarke—Relic of the silver
goblet—Mr. Hunt at Astoria—Face of affairs changed—Mr.
Hunt departs from Astoria—North-West
squadron—A great Eri duped—Bill of sale—Petty
manœuvring—Rumours of ships—The Astorians
at their post—Bills signed—Astoria delivered up—North-West
Company.
Astoria now became the scene of business and bustle. A council was convened, and a second meeting of the partners took place. Last year their expectations were raised to the highest pitch, and everything promised an abundant harvest of wealth and glory: the present state of affairs was somewhat clouded with reverses and cross-purposes. The resolutions of M'Dougall and M'Kenzie last winter, to abandon the undertaking, were now
