Our journey across Iowa at an end, we are on the banks of the Big
Muddy, opposite Platsmouth. We will stay here until Gus’s things are
sold, and we have seen her off on the steamboat. I stay with her
nights, and this afternoon is the first time I have left her since the
15th.
* * * * *
Friday, May 19.
I went over to Platsmouth on the ferryboat this morning with some
friends that are camping near us, to do some shopping for Gus. I bought
a black bonnet, crèpe veil and collar, and material for black suit,
which we will make up in camp, as there is a dress-maker with us. I
was away about five hours and came back tired and hungry. The weather
is perfect. We have a very pleasant place to camp, and pleasant people
camping near us. We are surrounded on all sides by emigrants’ camps,
and still they come. It seems like a young town, only the houses are
built of canvas instead of lumber, brick or stone. The boys have put up
a swing, but I have no time for swinging to-day.
* * * * *
Saturday, May 20.
We have had a very, very busy day. Mr. Kerfoot has sold Gus’s wagon and
team (three yoke of oxen) for $550, a good price every one says. More
than they cost them, I believe. The freight will be sold at auction.
We have all helped with Gus’s suit and it is almost finished. Hillhouse
went up to Council Bluffs this morning, expecting to bring Brother Mac
back with him. Instead of finding him he got a letter--also the one I
wrote a week ago--saying he was not coming. He has decided to study
medicine and will come west when he is an M.D. We are disappointed,
of course, yet perhaps it is for the best--we must try and believe so
anyway. Most perfect weather.
The Morrison and Harding outfit have come, also several other families
from Lewis and Clark counties. The Kerfoots are acquainted with some of
them. They had heard of the sad accident. Some of them were friends of
Mr. Milburn.