and water fit to drink as far down as the Bars, at the entrance. We directed out course up this noble River in search of a village. The beach was lin'd with Natives, who rang along shore following the Ship. Soon after, above 20 Canoes came off, and brought a great lot of Furs, and Salmon, which last they sold two for a board Nail. . . . They appeared to view the Ship with the greatest astonishment and no doubt we was the first civilized people that they ever saw. -. . . The tide set down the whole time and was rapid, whole trees sometimes come down with the Stream. The Indians inform'd us there was 50 Villages on the banks of this river.
May 18, 1792
. . . Capt. Gray names this river Columbia's, and the North entrance Cape Hancock, and the South Point, Adams. This River, in my opinion, wou'd be a fine place for to set up a Factory. The Indians are very numerous, and appear'd very civil (not even offering to steal) . . . The river abounds with excellent Salmon, and most other River fish, and woods with plenty of Moose and Deer, the skins of which was brought us in great plenty, and Banks produces a ground Nut, which is an excellent substitute for either bread or Potatoes. We found plenty of Oack, Ash, and Walnut trees, and clear ground in plenty, which with little labor might be made fit to raise such seeds as is necessary for the sustenance of inhabitants.
May 20, 1792
. . . The Men, at Columbia's River, are strait limb'd, fine looking fellows, and the Women are very pretty. They are all in a state of Nature, except the females, who wear a leaf Apron—(perhaps 'twas a fig leaf. But some of our gentlemen, . . . reported, that it was not a leaf, but a nice wove mat in resemblance!! and so we go—thus, thus—and no War!—!)
