In one thing, however, they showed superior judgment and self-command to
most of their race; this was, in their abstinence from ardent spirits,
and the abhorrence and disgust with which they regarded a drunkard. On
one occasion a son of Comcomly had been induced to drink freely at the
factory, and went home in a state of intoxication, playing all kinds of
mad pranks, until he sank into a stupor, in which he remained for
two days. The old chieftain repaired to his friend, M'Dougal, with
indignation flaming in his countenance, and bitterly reproached him for
having permitted his son to degrade himself into a beast, and to render
himself an object of scorn and laughter to his slave.
CHAPTER XLI.
Spring Arrangements at Astoria.--Various Expeditions Set
Out.-The Long Narrows.--Pilfering Indians.--Thievish Tribe
at Wish-ram.--Portage at the Falls--Portage by Moonlight.--
An Attack, a Route, and a Robbery.--Indian Cure for
Cowardice.--A Parley and Compromise.--The Despatch Party
Turn Back.--Meet Crooks and John Day.--Their Sufferings.--
Indian Perfidy.--Arrival at Astoria.
AS the spring opened, the little settlement of Astoria was in agitation,
and prepared to send forth various expeditions. Several important things
were to be done.
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