pp. 64- 83 Summary and Analysis

The men cross the Yellowstone River with the horses more or less swimming across. Four trappers secretly leave to form another party. The remaining men unite with another larger trapping party and then the two parties are attacked by the Blackfeet Indians in September, 1835. The party is so disabled by animals being shot and men deserting that they decide to join Mr. Bridger's party and pass the winter with them. More Blackfoot Indians are spotted, but they wave an American Flag and entreat for peace. A Frenchman goes to set his beaver traps without being in a secure position and is killed and scalped by the Blackfoot Indians. The united party meets up with 2 villages of friendly Flathead Indians.

Russell feels uncomfortable under his bossy leader. He is sent on a mission on his own, but the directions he...