Francis Parkman Quotations

Crossing the Penobscot, one found a visible descent in the scale of humanity.

The reader need not be told that John Bull never leaves home without encumbering himself with the greatest possible load of luggage. Our companions were no exception to the rule.

A few hours' ride brought us to the banks of the river Kansas.

A military road led from this point to Fort Leavenworth, and for many miles the farms and cabins of the Delawares were scattered at short intervals on either hand.

The fortified towns of the Hurons were all on the side exposed to Iroquois incursions.

The great medley of Oregon and California emigrants, at their camps around Independence, had heard reports that several additional parties were on the point of setting out from St. Joseph's farther to the northward.

Riding in advance, we passed over one of these great plains; we looked back and saw the line of scattered horsemen stretching for a mile or more; and far in the rear against the horizon, the white wagons creeping slowly along.

We were soon free of the woods and bushes, and fairly upon the broad prairie.

We were now arrived at the close of our solitary journeyings along the St. Joseph's trail.

Here society is reduced to its original elements, the whole fabric of art and conventionality is struck rudely to pieces, and men find themselves suddenly brought back to the wants and resources of their original natures.