February 1, 1806: " today we opened and examined all our ammunition
which had been secured in leaden canesters, we found twenty seven of the
best rifle powder, 4 of common rifle, three of glaized and one of the
musquet powder in good order, perfectly as dry as when first put in the
canesters."
February 2, 1806: " Not any occurrence today
worthy of notice; but all are pleased, that one month of the time which
binds us to Fort Clatsop and which seperates us from our friends has now
elapsed. Weather more moderate. Some of the men were engaged to
day bringing in more meat."
February 3, 1806: " killed seven elk, we are fortunate in getting as
much meat as we can eat; but we have no other kind of provisions."
February 4, 1806: " Last night the men who had gone to carry the meat to
the
salt works, returned and
brought us a bushel of salt."
February 5, 1806:
" this day was clear and cool."
February 6, 1806: "ten of us started with a canoe to bring in the meat
of the elk, killed yesterday; and had to encamp out all night but with
the assistance of the elk skins and our blankets, we lodged pretty
comfortable, though the snow was 4 or 5 inches deep."
Patrick Gass
February 7, 1806:
" we had what I call an excellent supper it consisted of a
marrowbone a piece and a brisket of boiled Elk that had the appearance
of a little fat on it. This is for Fort Clatsop is living in high
stile."
