CHAPTER XL.. Down the Great River.

DOWN THE GREAT RIVER.

Voyage from Source to Sea.--Three thousand miles in an open canoe.--"Pioneers of the Mississippi."--A thrilling lecture.--The long voyage begun.--Mosquitoes.--Hunger and exhaustion.--The Captain kills an otter.--Lakes Bemidji and Winnibegoshish.--An Indian missionary.--Wind-bound.--Chenowagesic bids farewell to the Captain.--Pokegama Falls.--Grand Rapids.--Meeting the first steamboat.--Aitkin.--Great enthusiasm.--The new canoes.--Leaving Aitkin.--Arrival at Little Falls.--Escorted in triumph to the town.--"Captain Glazier! A speech! A speech!"--Lake Pepin.--An appalling storm.--St. Louis.--Southern hospitality.--New Orleans.--Arrival at the Gulf of Mexico.--End of voyage 476