Three Forks of the Missouri Summary and Analysis

On July 18, the captains agree to send a party ahead to look for the Indians. On July 20th, the scouting party led by Captain Clark observes smoke in the distance; the captain decides to leave signs on his trail in order to let the Indians know they are peaceful. A few days later, Sacagawea, traveling with Lewis and his party, starts to recognize the country of her youth; she says they should reach the Three Forks quite soon. By June 22nd, the Corps is reunited; Lewis sets small flags on each canoe in order to indicate to the Indians that they are not their enemies. The captain is still wary about the river ahead and the possible obstructions, even though the woman of the party assures him the river is clear.

The explorers...