Last Lap Summary and Analysis

From the end of August 1806 until the middle of September, the Corps of Discovery navigates speedily down the Missouri River toward St. Louis. This time, they are accompanied by a representative of the Mandan tribe. The captains of the Corps of Discovery spend much of their time and efforts in sealing the diplomatic relationships they first established on their way to the Pacific, two years earlier.

They first encounter members of the Teton Sioux tribe, with whomn they want little to do with. Clark tells their representatives they did not listen to their counsel and they will not be suffered around their camp. He refuses to give in to any of their demands and leaves them. Soon afterward, he provides similar warning to the representatives of the Pawnees. He adds that no white trader will deal with them or...