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Les diagrammes suivants illustrent la mAthode. 1 2 3 1 6 32X m -f^' 'I"" ilk,-/. •^;, V^?f-%^^^_ ^'^^i^-% m?' i: \;, 0#^;iv- .■i'^r''H>' 1 1 *k- -'•f^| HOmPAl^ ihmm ??•, B* '*"{ vf ;''j» -*». I ■1 <' ^£^J. .A". •.*.:• EAMBLES Across the PraMe — Up the Bow Biver — Over the Summit of the Kockies— and down the Kicking Horse Pass into British Columbia. ^>^?^*^ "Bee Laggan aiul die " may be said with naetween tho lied River and CalgHry. and an attractive journey of some 80 miles into tho llocky Mountains. Further, it signifies that Tou have reached a resting riliice in tho mountains from which you can readily start off in any rlirection to seek and find all that is oalcuUted to oharni a Rumraor vacation ur boHinosH holiday. A PABAIMSK FOR SroilTSArKN. ^ If you wish to hunt you have t)ie dense woods at the foot of the mountains which enclose the valley where Laggan lies. In these primeval forests bears force their way, and many kinds of game find a retreat. If fishing is your delight, tho clear, cold rapid waters of the Bow River skirting the \-iIlage, supply mountain trout ; ur up the hill, through the woods, about an hour's walk, you reach a beautiful lake, wliusc beauties an artist would fain place on canvas, ov writer describe with ]:en. NeHtling among tiie mountains, frtd by ice cold streams issuing from melting glaciers, apparently near, but miles away, olear an cryHtal, and waters distinctly groon, lius this lovely nameless lake. Already it has become a Ueligbtful spot to catch the wily trout. Issuing from this mountain lake a Htream rushes, the noise of which is heard far awav as it rolls downward with maddening force to reach the waters of the Bow. Even in this seething stroam trout in caught. If Hcience has a oliarin, there you behold on every side rocks of all kinds, condition and ago. lu the valley and up tho mountain sides you have a most comprehetisive flora from which innumerable forms of plant life can be obtained. But should neither si)ort nor science prove of interest, you may at Laggan climb to lofty snow-capped summits, or walk amidst scenery suited to inspire the most indifTeront to uU that is wonderful and great. Having had the pleasure of accompanying some members of the British AHSociatioii to this unchanting locality, I propose to give the render our ex- perience c^rosH the gruat I'rairie Btemjcs and through the rugged mountain passes along which the Canadian Pacific Railway threads its way. ji th;: kirht praibik stkppk. " All Aboard " was called out. and the warning bell rung for the last time. Slowly the train moved out from tho t^tation, quickening in speed till we were fairly imder way for a trip across the sea of green that lies on eiUier side of the way to the dist-^nt mountains. We were soon orossing the far-famed Bed Biver Valley. The level plain, extending far as the eye can reach, attracted the attention of my companions from a foreign latul. They wondered at find- ing such a heritage comparatively unsettled, and eagerly inquired how a land with such great possibiutieB remainod in obaourity bo long. As we roUed oa ■f! — 4>f — I th« b«faiUiful flowara of tli« prairie bconnic a wniva of iut«i)iM< iiitaront tu the lx)t»niiit. (loldnn 0()tn|N woro iii blwiin oii evvry niiUv Tli«> |N^rMiiiUut blue h«II, whioh wo found cwu on th« moutaMin, fornioit » ploKHin^ oontraat Ui the ubiquiumii yellow (lowi NorthwoMt, ami mmictinuiM n narrow ow'ii|to from Winx loft Uditnd wan vx|iprii*nij4Hi. Jawik om tho t\rHt day oloMit it thio ouilovtion of tho iiiniimurnblo forutn of plant lifo wliioh m^o M\ich a charni to tho baunty ol tin- iiPHiiio waa gatherifd. \lu)ut nooit wo roathotl th« Ixndrr of tho Uud Itivor VnlKv, over which in prinii'vnl dnyn tho '^ntotH of a VMMt namulcHH Uko wi ro Mprutt|ir«ad until that lak<>, hold liiiok by a r«tr<ii.«« v curH, ut laat, whon tho ice molttHl, fonnd nn oxit north thruuKh thu JIudmm'H liny, and Inft tho valUiy a rich heritiiu** to ntan. Knob, (.^oologiHta toll dh, in tlir origin of our tirHt prairio Mtop|N<, Hik) fr luvtd of tho Htm, a, id homo HO milcH wide, with an ii;ua of ti.iMHI wpiaru miloH. 1'hiH rt>|llent «xp tho aand, in manv caaen ludd together by very iittio vogntiition, it iMuno<]iatcly oliangea undor tno influom^e of wind, whtch, Htirring it about, drivoh tho wholo mound before it, and a now monument ih ruiv^xl to mditatu llio roHtloHH nutnro of thuae hillH. A hoarty dinner wan taken at CarlKirry, and wo wore aoon on the railH again. A abort time (iM):Wed boii ro wo roat'hml tho (irand Valley, and cro long wu rntw tho iMiautiful oluuhillHof Brand m louniini; up to thoHouth. Drandon reached, the Htran^erH were full of ooniplimentary tormn in rcforonot* to the HJto and it« gonoral a)ipoaranco. They wero delighlod ai4 thoy lookod northward and oh- Hurvod tho AHininiboino, meandering t.hr, l>cv»»nd wliioli tho '"nd riaoH witli long and gontlu Hlopn. i'hoy pronouncHd Uivor Valley i« now reproaented by a more fviablo and warnuu' aoil. Htonox are more frequontly hoou, and 'the general outline of tho country changed, for wo luo now on tho siHMind prairio 8tem)e, l,t'»00 foot abovo Hoa level, 270 niiloh wide, with an area of lO.iiOO Hquaro mifoH. ThiH diatriot ami u large part o( the third Htopiw ovorlioH (iretaceoua donoaitH. Amoiig thoae attractive rollin;j patchoH, iiro home • for thoumndN willing to till tho hoiI. Wo hteamod on until ni<^lit settling upmi uh cloaed tho Hoenu. The next morning we wakened to tlnd oiiirtflveH am rounded by a change in the phvaical features of tho district. Over level pruiric wo wtitv paa^ing again, and nearing Mocuejanr. Regina had l>ooii piiHhod and inilea of level uountry on'osaeil. Borne new planta woru ol>Hervid, a atifTer aoil had been reached, and a drier dintrict entered. We breakfaatiHl at Mrtejaw, where a few Indiane made their appearance. They were a aourue of ix>DaiderabIe intorcst to my fellow travellera, wlio now Riood (»on to fMw v.'ith r«pr«Mintftbiv«M of that RtrttnK* riMM thay hmi oftMi hMurd of iu Knt(li\tMl\ (kiwooiftUMl w>t)i lUriiiK (UkkIn ftiu* MoMly in»MMr«i. Bnoiitfh wnH iKHin livri« to whut Ihnir cuH'Mtily fur fiirthur nbM<>iv»tion whtr* poor Ik> u|)|t«ared in wildvr auiI more priinitivi) rimMitno. Ah wo now thrMMltd our %^Ay (ivi>r thr I'miiiii » now fontiii* n|ip«iii'«Ml. Tlia "ruiiH," tir patha, of Iha bufT.iloH nf tho |i«Hl, a.iid «v«ry few muiuuiitn tlia blniMiliivl i-(iin»iiia of ihotn warn Hfvu. Thin w«n » uraal tr«at to my ooiniiftiiiofiM. wliu now, l>«noiitlng b%- oeodiiiKly ilimiroiiH to linar of tlir ulinoHt oxtiiiol biitTain, wKtrbwl with «ft|(*r oyoN tbo inininirraliltv puthH and h,mt)ii lM^atl«>rc(l nvitr tliu wliolu iMiuntry to tlia liooky MoiintniiiN. New pUutN wnro uuntinually obHurviKl, ami tbnri* wkh uvorv indication thM we Itad pKMWMl into a liiKtriiit witb nlunatio condilionH (lilTnrniu from thoaaof raKlouM to thn oaal. Wo wi>r« now Hitproaiihin^ tiie third prairii* atoppo, and antorint{ a diMtdot iiioro Nubjmit to dmuKlit. ' AfU«r It tbriH) honrN' run tlio inonotiuiy of tho fiJainH iNMrnnid brokan bv lakaa wliioh apiwaidd from timo to tinio an thp jo'jrnoy iiroKruMwid. Many of thaaa woro ooviTcd witli M**'iti«< and aa tlio vnt^inu at4iaiuea alont< thoiiMniida of birda — paliaaiiN. duckH, ifoeac, plovor and Hiiip«<- roau fioui tlin \vat««r noar tha traok Iu Moak a Hpot Itvyond tliu Hhnt of HportKUuni, who iivcn viuiturud toahoot fruin thtt train at tho livtnc maaii apiiarontly within ^nnHhot. • 0. V. It. i:xn'.l(IMKNT.\li I'AHMH. At Hocr^tan thu xyt^, which for uianv niil<'N liad hocii no Hit{n of nrttlrmuot, waa r«crimon.*,al farm, and Ih ono of tun nnder oidtiva* tion thiN year f(*r tha pur|H)Kv of toatiuK tho a^TK iiltural capabilitiaM of a vaat diHtriot. which by aotuis writon* liaH boon ooMdoitniud. No wintir incthiMl oonid havo boon adoptod than that undnrlakiiti by tlit> Itand ('otuniiMnioiipr, M*', J. H. McTaviali, wlio, by iiavinft a (xTtion till< wan for aalo, and oiiu of our party would fain have made t)u« iiurchaao, but hn'um on tho way out ho had to content hintaolf with hoping to nocure it on our ruturn. PaHHiui4 weatward, alkali lakoH appeared at intorvalH, and an wc nuarod Mapio (urdered by a dtatinut bany innuninrablo alkaliuo olanta found in thuno vioinitiea, Itreaentad a peouliar weird-Iiko appoarauco. Two daya had been Bjiont travel- lOK at fait' apead and yet we woru uroHHin){ a prairiu country. THIUI) I'HAIltlK HI MI'I'i;. Tliia ia on the tliird prairio Htopjio, which Ih Haid to iiM^in at Mooaojaw and extend to thu fiK>t of tlu) niountaiuH, with an avera^u uievation of .\,'H]'J feet abovo aoa levul, iil.'i railoa widu, and i'inl)raciiiM an uroa of l(irO(M> mpiare inilaa. At Maplo (*ruak thu grauH waH uxoullont and Miu'tnod woll fitted to utTord auperior paaturage fur cattle. Hern wu took an evening ujeal, and while waiting tu atart, thu uasaaufferH wuru otittTtained durtu^; thuir Hhort atay by Tndiati boya, viein^ with each othor in atrivin|{ to kncHsk, with bow and arrow, a ni<'kel from the atick on which it had boon placud, Tliu hui coHHfui markHman kept tho monoy. At thia place my EngliKh riotnpauionH had a f;ooog. At Orowfnnt (^roaaing, a Hhort distanoe frnm thin, a eettler rodo over to the train while it Htopped for a few ininuteti to lake water. We inteniewed him, and found lio had bettled upon a place a ahort distance from the traok, sud had Iweii excedingly Huccefrntul in Ins farm op>jrationa no far. Bat hia binheat hopoa were built upon tho dincovery on his farm of an exoelloht aeam of coal 10 feet thiok. He waa very anxiouH to have ua viait it, but cireumstan'xw would not permit. .Several aona — I think four — are with him, and thua auparated milea from anv other white aottlera they are the pUinee r a in thia vaat tract of nntilled aoil. The influence of the Bow river, which oomea near tiie traok hero, ia ennily ^rtieivod. The paatore is excelktot and appeared e* if vast honln might oe easily maintoined ulmn it. OLEICHEN~A BPLRNDID O. P. R. FARM. Breakfast waa taken at Oloichon, whero the last experimental farm ia located. In fact a better term would he miMlel farm, for the Hurruundinga were such as preaented a moat attractive aofwaranco t«j the obaerver. Splendid roota were jo^wing, line Aulda of waving grain ri^ning, and nature decidedly afHrmed by prolific results the fertility of the hoiI at Gleioheu. At this plaoe ou a clear day tho traveller getu the flrflt view of the Kcjokiea about 100 mileu away. Bnt the weather wan unfavorable for uh. It wuh now i.>vercaHt, bright sunidiine had accompanied us for two day^, bnt gloomy forebodingH ccnceruing the weather for tenting Hoemud uour. Six Iioufk and we would be in Calgary, in the vicinity of which we hoped to tent. We wero Hcarcely out from the laat vtatioD when rain poured down and little of tho country was neen. However, it waHobaervefl to be rolling, and clothed in rirh green. I'he thick, bunchy that we were in the great _ for exteuatve ranches. AVPR0A(1HIN« CALOAUY. Art we ueared Calgary ray friends could not refrain from e.xpressiug their ■ururise at the magnitude of the country. Two days and a half steamirg away, and yet only nearing the foothills of the mountains '* What a region, and what room for a vast p)pulation I" were remarked. (3algary was reachod about 3 p.m.. and it was raining heavily. Still no hope for tenting. We land^sl and ■ought an hotel for the night, with the expectation of seeing better surround- ings next flay. We were told that it had beon raining nearly evnry day for weeks, and we knew it was only a few days since the bridge over the river was swept away and much damav,o done to the track beyond. Tho rain continued all afternoon, and it did neom as if tho valley might be submergod before many hours. With difficulty I callefl ui>on a number of friends near the hotel. They tried to fan my faded hopes by saying " it wa» extioptional to sc-e such rain in Calgary— that this was a {Miouliar experience, and that tho rain would continue bnt a short time." At the.hotel the quarters were somewhat contracted. The wind blew with terrific force, and whistled through the light fabric erected as a shelter to wear>- tourists for the west. Yet, after all. there was something romantic in the storm ; and we all enjoyed listening to the battering rain and whistling wind, wiich indicated a torrino night without. Morning oatne, and Mill rain, but tnoro drizzling. The sky appeared to be clearing in the direction of the mciuutaius linvisible), and wo were inclined tq prognosticate fair weather. Notwithstanding the rain we started oft to search a suitable spot for the tent. To tent we came, and tent we would if tlie weather was at all reasonable. Three miles beyoisd Calgary, on tho banks of the Bow River, not far from a point honored with the name of Shagganappy, we selected our ground. At this place a >3ouple of bachelors, whom we at once judged to be honeat men, had '-squatted" and boilt a "shack" — a small log house. They hod under ■ • •wwman v^a/a^a wa ^l/ «/v a\#iiaai^f nttva vivvtiv^vt lu a«^ai p^i«.«u< buffalo grass was oomtnon, and we readily- perceived that pusiuring district of the Bow Iliver, a region wfM udapte<1 : WK HPP it. ottl^valioD about (tight ftonw, whioh wm IWKaly Hown with vaijetabl* prodno*. W« thoo^ht it {irudent to camp near the "uhaoir" no that these men ooold have an eve over our effeotii while wo wandered far up the rivrr in March of infor- mation upon tlio botany and ^eoloKy of thu place. We novor regretted this oonolueion, and will not forget for nonie time the kind nttontiuue of Meaartt. Laurie and McAuley, during our Htay m this beautiful valley of the Bow River. At rnveral places along the Bow the valley widenti, forutinr a sort of oval- shaped area. ThtH is known as a "bottom," and uuoh placen tre marked by great fertility ; conttequeutly, our friondH of tho Ant "Irattom,' weMt of Calf^ary were well repaid by handsome yields in their cropH. Duriii({ our stay ttiej were getting six oenta per pound for potatoeH. I'he "nhack" waH rather an interenting 8{)ot ; its inmateH had beun extensive travuUers and were well able to record many an incident in their wido experience Buited to rivet tiie atten- tion of their hearers. Though much waa Been in the little log hoUMi tc< render it comfortable and the general appuaranco tedocted credit upon its inniatee, still it lacked many of the attractive featuree that are Heen in a houHe tltat ia graced by the preHence of woman. Having settled on our future rendezvous we returned to tho village, [Mcked up, and luckily got uur things on board a train going west with workmen to repair portions of damaged track. The tent was put up. One of our party would not venture upon camp life under such damp conditions, hut determined to remain at Calgary and uujoy the attractive luxnries of the hotol until the weather became more settled. Everything being thoroughly settled, wc made a short trip duriag the ef temoou up the banK and returned in tho evening — prepared a primitive tea and enjoyed it well. Tho dishes being washed, if that term can be applied under the conditions of tent life, and all things put in order, we repaired to tho *'Bhack" for the' purpose of being regaled by the rich experiences of our bachelor nei|,'hbor8. KXCITKMENT. One of our party did not at Urst como in, being engaged in making some ohangCH in hin garments While doing thia it was thought that it would be a good joke to step out and Arc a shot near the tent, ho ab to alarm the inmate. No sooner waH it suggested than one Htepped out— in a moment both barrels of the shot gun were emptied, and, the Hportsman dropping, hid behind a buHb. It was wall he concealed himself so quickly, for scarcely had the echoct of his gun ceased when our companion was firing uh rapidly as he could ttim his revolver in the direction from which the shot came, for, an he aftenvardd said, he thought it might have been Indians that had diHturbod hiH peace. The concealed friend shouted out that it wan he, and all alarm ended. We talked far into the night, and many a thrilling adventure was described, whioh, repeated in England, will command more attention than in a oonutry like the Northwest, where such events are of more common occurrence. The next morning found some of ur earlier about than wc desired, for scarcely had dawn appeared before the writer was astir, and running along the tracL striv- ing to prevent a chill which had bnguu to crawl upon him and disturb his repose. As he ran along working up heut he failed to see much that was attractive in camp life. The huntsman mse at an early iiour, as ho said, to ^uk game for breakfast, but we afterwards learned he also had experieiued a chill. Our bachelor friend seemed to possesh more animul heat, and wa? permitted to doze on. Having restored comfort and attained a sufficient temperature to rest I returned to the tent, laid down and enjoyed a pleasant na]*. I may here say that none of us experienced a want of comfort again. Wc made some changes in our method of sleeping, which enabled us to rest each night and enjoy A most delightful sleep, seldom awakening until thu sun k/,d woil entered upon his counw. w^ p^l^ MUBNTinO WOBX BBOIN8. TIm MXt d»y WM bMatifoi ; the itorm bad pMsed away, anr) it was oar lot lor the remainder of the journev to experience nioet delightful wAather. We IVVM eoon on the wav westward to explore a flne expoaure of what in known to gwIoRiate m rooke of the liaramie aeriea. The deponitH of this period ooni- BBMMM abont the Blaolrfoot oroMiing and extend to the mountaina. Tbia eeoarp- mtnt it at the traok, and forma a portion of the bank of the Bow Itivur. What a delightfal morning walk it was as we pasaod up the track ! High abttve ua to the left was the lofty hill, about 1100 feet hiKh, while t<> the ri({ht the rajridly flowing Bow mahinff eaatward filled the air with the noise of its waters. Rav- ing riMhed the foasil haunt we olimbod to the steep bank and Hoon obaerved that we would not require to move far from that locality to aeoure manv re- p r aaa n tativea of the primeval life in these deitosita. In a short time our hotel oompMiion Joined us, and work was thornughlv entered upon. Great frajtmenta of rook wero obaenred,fmade up of a mass of olam-like HhullH, and some not un- liko a snail. In faoi these masaes were so compact that it took oonsidurable praetioe to break out a good specimen. How carefully my friends packed the treomirMi, that thay proposed taking over the sea with them. Even the botanist beoamo lo interested in the fossil wealth of this exposure, that for a time he forgot to mark the charming flora aronnrd him and made a fine ool laotion of foaails. There was danger here. At short intervals water burst out from the clav bads which lie between the layers of sandstone, and ran down the <4te<^t> prect- pice above, warning us that all the oonditionn neceasary for a landaiiae were present and that any moment the earth abovu ua or boneath our feet might move river ward. We watched the face of the hill carefully, and lookd out a ■nppoaed retreat should such ii ohangr occur. Had :' not been for former alides we oonld not have climbed thiH hil' so far up aa we did. I'liree diatimit alides were perceived, and we felt oonviucvjd thut after the oontiuuoua rain of 1864, another might ooonr at any moment. At this verv time Bomediatanoe further ap men were removing one from the track whioh had fallen some days befora. The whole bank on thip, the south aide, ahows that many slidea have oooorred in times past. Bome sqven variotiee of fosail shells were secured, and several interesting specimena of leaves and fruit of plants obtained, whioh flourished when uese Laramie de\Hmta wore formed. With well loaded bags we returned to the tent, prepared the evening repaat, and after a talk in the "ahaok," retired well prepared to enjoy all the delif^hts of a good night's rest. Anotiier glorious day was ushered in and a long tramp furthcM up tlie track undertaken to a locality whioh the writer thought would supply excellent fossil leaves, for he had visited it the year before during* the construction of the road and obtained good resulta. In this we were Homewhat disappointed and had to be contented with obtaining apecimens lean readily than at lirat anticipated. However, a good collection of loaaila from the Laramie was obtained. The botanist too had done well. In the valley of the Bow near^ Cal|{ary, ho found beautiful wild geraniums in bloom. Near our tout, on the hillside, monkshood was oommon, and far up the hill on its very nummit the wild onion flourished. Many other attractive plants were observed and a large collection secured. One evening while returning from Calgary a magnificent view of' the Rockies was seen. T'was near sunset. The lofty }>eakB with ano .v capped summits, bordored with silver sheen, were distinotly seen, and the golden tints of the western skv formed a background whioh added grandeur *n the glorious scene. As I walked over the valley in which the town lies, feasting upon the match- less s«({htof the sun pasaing down behind the distant mountains, the murmuring waters of the Bow Biver greeted my ear. At intervals happy youth dashed by me on native ponies, an^ cantered across the beautiful valley in whioh the Iragninoe of prairie flowers was borne on the summer air. I seemed enveloped bv all that was suggestive of joy and happiness, and the place appeared more like fairyland tium a young city on the borderland of civilization. Buoh soenes :-» AM not uncommon in C»lf{arry nnd ffive it that oharm whioli render* It M attnotive to thofle who call it home. LKAV1N(» CALCJARY FOB THK MOUNTALVB. The next evening, after haviuK waited (or Mome hoars al Calgary on aoooont of the train trvm tlie mountainn being detained by the falling of rook on the track, win^ Hnni»thing over hevun feet Umg and a foot and a half thick. The {lony arrived, ''lie immenHi> pack waH orought over to the K<^^< i^i^i there examiuod very niiapiciouHly by thu horHc. Uin neck wrvg patted and some tmuouraging wordR repeated, while two of our party ru. u>d tho burden on to the aaddle. It will be some time before the sharp 'iring look given by the borne ut that bundle, as he turnoil Ins head from sic > side to take iu tho situation, will be forgotten. Ht. (veorgu became ro» i.oiw, and thu tent ex- tremely movable, but the uinHtttr hold to the bridle and endeavored to settle tho nervous condition of his churge. Tho pon > oem«' ' no lon^c* undar the control of gravitation, but moved from »ide t<< h. . as if witb'.ut weight. This oouldnot last long, for the bundle had asHumed an oblique ,irsitio?i about parallel to tb*" « \ i of the earth. But thiugH had low reach' d :!ip worst phane. The pony CdMiicd to be disturbed by thi. unwieldly burdcu, and with one assisting to balanee, moved along quite unconcerned till tue st^ : ion was reaohttd. Bhortly after starting from Cal>s'arv, darkneks olosod in upon ub, and hU scenery was cut ofif for the night. Htiil through ^he darkness we covid discern something of the beauty along the way. Following the Bow River wc ,.Lin- tinned our whole course, crossing and re-orossirg it from time U> iim&, slowly but surely rising as we nearod the mountains, Iving W milos beyond Calgary. Before day had well dawned, we awoke aud beheld the lofty peaks of moun- tains on every side. We reached Canmore, a place of great interest and beautiful lo(^-ation. There Wf)B not enough light to fully realize the scenery hero, but in the gray dawn we caught a glim)ise of its surroundings-^ beautiful, inspiring, and snbhme — while from every mountam the echoeH of our engine whistle seemed to come. Farther on near Duthil we saw a group of fantastic tif^ures, which, as we approached, proved to bo earth pillars. They stood on the hill side like tion- tinela, each with its stoney cap, which has prevented tho rain from wearing the top down while water wore away soil around the uides until on upright pillar of earth is left 15 to 20 feet high. HANFV I'ARK one of the moat attractive places in the Rockies, was soon reached. Tills is likely to be a great resort for tourists when its wonderful natural attractions are fully known. Here tho valley of tho Bt>w River widens and forms a beau- tiful park containing several thousand acre:t, through which the river ps,saeH with less current than in many parts of its course, as if resting from home of its pabt maddening efforts in forcin*^ its way through the mouutrin paim. At this point the Cascade Mountain towers licavenwani over 5.OU0 f. }t above the track. . Dashing down its almost perpendicular sides rushes the seething stream which has given the rocky elevation itK name. About five miles north-east of tho station there h: % Inuutiful lake, with water clear an crystal, and teeming witii fish. It is abou' 20 uiilus in length, some- what circular in shape, and over a mile in width. Lofty mountains on every i'i • r -8 lid* add to its beauty, and make the aoenery of the place all the most exaotin^ oonld deiire. A beautiful beach Hkirts the lake, and along the shore for a ehort distance out the water is comparatively shallow, but deepens quickly beyond. Aorow the river sonth-east of thia station about three miles there are thermal ■prixigB showing temperatures of 95^^, 110^ and 11-1° F. These are imprest- natad with sulphur, ». d no doubt possess mineral characters of medicinal value. Here at one place, about 200 feet above the river, an opening occurs in the rook, large enough to allow a person to crawl in. Entering this yon can descend some 40 feet by moans of a ladder, and find yourself in a largo cone- shaped cave 30 feet wide at thH base. The foot of the ladder rests on a ledge of rook, Wiiiich extends half way around the circular cavo, and is wide enough to allow one to move about. The bottom of the cave is covered with about 4 feet of water at 95'=' F., bubbling with gteat force through a bed of dark colored sand. This would be much warmer, but cold water is continually falling into it from the roof of the cave. Innumerable needle-like crystals on the sides of the cave give it a moat attractive appearance. Very few tourists pass Banff without visiting this wondbrful cave and bath- ing in its tepid mineral water. Near these warm springs others can be seen with water very little above freezing point. The rocks on every side indicate times of great upheaval, and show in many places strata folded in a most com- plicated way. liAUOAN REACHED. At 8 a. m. we steamed into Laggau, and iu a fev.- minutes our baggage was unloaded. We looked arouad for a new home, and coucludud to put up our tent near the station beside the mounted police, who we thought would be able to watch our effects while we made excursions into the Mountains. Up went the tent, and by 10 o'clock we had completed b^akiast. Laggan at the time of our visit was as far as the passenger cars went, but the track extended 13 miles farther. Some fifty dwellings made up the village, situated on the north side of Bow Biver, upon ground which slopes gradually up from the river, and affords a very good site for a small town. The mountains over the river, apparently near, but in some cases manv miles away, present a magnificeut view. The outlines of four are well marked, iuA can readily bo sot n. Mouuii Laggan, to the left, looking south, by measurement, is 6,500 feet above the level of the * track, and 12,000 above sea level. Its summit is covered with snow for about 1,000 feet. This forms the so-called Laggan glacier, the end of which ia well defined, and though appearing to be but a few yards deep, has been found to be 210 feet. Mount Dawson, a short distance to the right, is very discinct, and being nearer appears as high as Mount Laggan. Two large patches of snow lie near its summit. Still farther west another mountain, with more fantastic outlines than either of the preceding, is observed. It has several peaks, and likely is a considerable distauce away. Patches of snow appear at various places upon it. Farther to the right as you look southward, but apparently near, a fine example of glacier is in view. To the observer this docH not appear to be over two or three miles away. One of our number, who was determined to stand upon a glacier, was rather surprised when told that this was twLMjty-five miles distant. Behind Laggan, on the north side, mpuntaius are also at hand, but none passes the grandeur and well defined outlines of those beyond the river. Wo longed to scale some of these lofty heights, where, bathed in a rare and cool atmosphere, we might catch a ghmpse of the wonderful panorama to be seen among these m^<{ged fastnesses from an elevated position. Our first day passed pleasantly, and high hopes of the visit began to be en- .tertained. The botanist's eyes flashed with delight at the thobght jf the variety of Alpine plants that likely bloomed up tlie sides of these hoary sentinels in the Bow Biver Pass. To those of us intent on the nature of the rocks, the Bommit gained meant much, and to the huntsman the dense woods girdling the mcwraUlM leained to praent ^reat «ttr»otioiii. Wild goftta irare Mid to niok thair Wftjr beyoac* the line of pino, Booky Mountain sheep were reported to have diimbed fcheee ro^ed heights, and there was every reason to believe that the bUok bear had made his haunts in the deep thickets that lay between the river and mountains, and who could number other game that might frequent these solitary spots. One feeUng pervaded all— to stand upon the summit of a mountain which seemed to pierce the very clouds. COMMENCE TO ASCEND MOUNT DAWSON. Another morning dawned, and all nature seemed to present opportunities for the task set apart for that day. Breakfast was hurriedly prepared, a lunch pot up, and we on cor way by 8 a.m. Up the track for more than a mils, aecoas the second bridge we went and entered upon the work of pushing oar way through the thicket of woods. Fallen timber lay on every side, and the EatiUess forest presented a moat difficult obstacle to overcome. We were in no nrry, for the whole day was before us, and the mountain seemul near. Every few moments a halt was made for the botanist, who was continually detained by attractive specimens. A new flora was surrouudiuf;; him. and we were not surprised at his delays. Here I saw the Labrador tea plant (Ledum latifoliom) which I found common on Swampy Island, Lake Winnipeg, and many other beautiful plants were observed. On we marched. Three honrH passed, and still toiling up the hill through a dense fore^ which was now almo1e writer with a geulogical hammer as hib defeuce. It Was agreed that the first man that ran should bo shot down. "If it is a grizzly," says one, "it will take us all." After several earnest and serious remarks had been made the line of march began with far more atten- tive listeners than before. At the least crack in the bush a halt was made, and eyes and ears were on tlie alert for the foe. One even got his olfactory usrvcs to such a flue condition that he demanded a halt, for he was sure he smelt a bear. There were no more delays by the botanist. The discovory of these large foot-priiiti! had a most salutary effect. He never was seen last again, third was his pi we, and be it said to hi? honor he kept it well till it was de- cided that no iKi&r was likely to i)e seen that day. On, on, on — t/ie mountain ever near, distinctly seen through the trees, but yet far away, .t tnally, after climbing hours up through the dense woods, we heard the maddtuing roar of a cataract, pushed on and reached a large stream rolling down tho r.ionntain side with tremendous force. We followed along the bank lined with { rees until we felt sure tliat we had missed our coiirse— that this stream would cu' uk off from the mountain >*e set out to ascend — and so numerous were tie trees, that we could aee no distance around us. We debated the position for n. while, and at last concluded to retrace our steps along the banks and follow farther north. We proceeded a considerable distance down and iflaohed au opso space in the woods. From this we could not awciortain '\. ; IIMIWHHilliil I. -10 — - whether we should cross the wild oarrent or keep np the side on which we were. However, diHcovering a Bmall iHlarid in the rniddlo of the stream jo which from both ban1(H f allpti tnes afforded a pansage.ard imagininj^ that once up tlie bifih bank (200 feet) ou the oppo^,it(> side we could better realize our position, we couclrded to cross the seething current which dashed madly down the mountain side. We at once uaw that though this stream was not over three feet deep, filled >vith large fragments of rocks, and about forty yards wide, yet if anyo.ie slipped into it he could not esca^w certain death. The writer first entered upon tlio natural bridge. Slowly, cautiously, he walked over the knotty, slippery, barkless log. wet with the spray dashed continually upon it by the maddening htream which rushed below. The island was safely reached, the second bridge crossed with equal caution and terra firma ^ined. The hunts- mart passed ov^r as readily, but it waii otherwise with the botanist and geologist. One placed himself astride the log and by a Heries of lifts succeeded in reach- ing the island, but not without having his susponded feet thoroughly wut with the surf as it lashed under the log, and from which it was a very difficult thing to keep thetn as the log was only three feet above the stream. But the geologist who announced "I will run no risk,"' having stretched his full length on the log began the arduous task of worming his way across, and after a trying effort reached the island. At the second crossing the fallen timber was not so l.»rgc, and the passage could not be made in this humblii way. Here, two Hmall trees, side by side, formed the bridge. To cross there, it was necessary to put a foot on each and walk carefully along. The V>otanist did not require to play hobbj'- horse, and soon landed safe, but his friend looked suspiciously at the weak support ; and when he saw there was no opportujHty to slide over, started, after some faltering attempts, and in stooping posture, with extended arms as if ready to fall and grasp at something should circumstances require it.proceeded trembling on the perilous crossing. Four feet from the bank he made a Im^ge, caught the Inug grass iu his grat^p. while the dashing current gave his feet a switch, and ouce more almost breathless, he found himself safe. The cautious effotts provoked roars of laughter from us, who sat upon the banks patiently waiting to resume the raarcJi. Near the foot of the mountain we soon ascend- ed the high bank and pushed our ''ay toward the mountain, aiid finally, about 4 o'clock, reache"«aBion the geologist was unexpectedly delayed in his humble method of reaching the island. When about half way across, a knot caught his vest, and for a time it seemed that he was a fixture, being neither able to go forward nor backward. But at last, by a peculiar arched-like motion, not unlike the move- ment of a geometer caterpillar, he relieved himself. -and for a third time was safe. Another hour and the end of the first day's work was reached. We thought then that we were almost at the foot of the mountain ; but, alas, the clear rarified air had deceived us. We toiled on till nearly one o'clock before we had passed out of the dense wood that girdled the mountain. The summit was now in full view. We had passed the line of tree growth, and the way appeared clear. It was simply a matter of cUmbing now, and eeemed a pleasant cout: ast to the toilsome march we had experienced in push- ing our way through the thick wood and over fallen timber. The journey became exceedingly interesting. The flora was rapidly changing. Plants which had bloomed weeks before in the valley were now only in flower. Here we were able to obtain specimens in bloom that we had not hitherto been able to secure. Large forms in the valley were represented by stunted types, and many new flowers began to appear. Far up the mountain side we found a most beautiful heather in bloom. This was found even beyond the first snow we passed, and presented a lovely sight with its bright white flowers. It v/aa very Bteop climbing now, but the footing wa<> good. Along the banks where a mountain stream had at some time flowetl, we continued to follow for several hundred feet. The banks of this deserted stream were covered with beautiful flowers, belonging to the genuA Baxiftaga and several Alpine genera. As we ascended, the view becamo charming, and as often as we halted to take breath onr eyes feasted upon the grauugh the thick foliage of firs. The houses of Laggan were as one, and we pigmies on me mount could not be seen, though some wore watching for us with glasHes f»r the greater part of the afternoon. Wliile upon this vantage ground of splendor, our souls thrilled with glorious scenery pround, an avalanche fell from a lotty peak in the rear. The air was filled wi ;h the awful noise as it echoed and re-echoed throuqh the deep valleys on ever J side. It seemed as if the very mountain on which we stood was nnstabH and might readily change. The Bjace upon the summit was comparatively sn H. After taking in the situation as well as we could under such wonderful conditions, sixteen shots were fired in suci^ession, and the name Dawson given to the mountain in honor of the dit tinguisbed Canadian geologist of that name. Hpon the lofty pinnacle a feeling of awe came over us, and we taXt in the presence of all that was cal- culated t) set forth God'y greatness and glory in His works. One of our party took from his pocket a Bible and read aloud a cha-pter from Job and one from the Psali i«, setting forth the wonderful works of the Creator. We would fain have ling tred in this sacred place, but a long and weary walk was before us ere that littlt village iu the valley could be reached. The descent was begun. Near the 'oot of the last elevation considerable excitement took place iu throw- ing stone. 1 at prairie chickens. They wete so tame that the sporti'man con- sidered it infra diq to shoot at them, and undertook to secure them in this primitive vay. Some were bajiged and the march continuetaiice to our wearied limbs. Two hours were now spent dashing desperately along, brush snapping beueatti our feet, and scarcely a word spoken, save. "Are you sure your course is correct?" What a gloam of delight flt^si^ed onr faces when we discovered an apparent opening in the dense mass of trees. Sure ei.ough, it was gettijig brighter, and the darkness seemed to le.ssen. -Here we are again," shouted the carrier of the compass, "but we are at the east side of tho muskeg." With a feeling of relief we baited and locked around to find where we had entered this pari of the w^od in the morna.g. We eat greedily the crowberries which grew on the sides of the muskeg, a'id felt somewhat Btrengthi3ned for the long walk that still lay before us down through the woods to the valley below. This muskeg contained about four acres, not a tree on it, but dense woods on all sides. It formed a sort of shelf on the mountain side. We now had hopes of seeing Laggan before darkness ur.antlcJ our way, and were exceedingly anxious to reach the " cro«sing " as sewn as possible. We resumed the march down the deep ^ide which began a bhort distance from the muskeg, snapping branches, pushing through the UDderbrush, jumping over logs, forcing our way tlirough a thicket which seemed darker and more impenetrable than the last. One hour and we reached the second cletkrance that marked another sheH on the mountain side, and also a smaU riuskeg. We knew then that our next landmark would be near the crossing. By this time it was getting quite dusky, but we hoped to reach the rapids befors darkness obscured our way. This last march was a complete fai ure to strike our expected point. The roaring noise of the mountain torrent Waa heard long ere we reached it ; but alas, when we came to the stream it was at a point far north of the crossing, and down the rapids. We certainly 'lad no energy to dissipate in useless walk- ing, but were neccssitateil to toil up along the seething stream to reach the natural bridge which Mpanned the tij-bulent watei-s. The writer and hnntHman readily passed over, and wearily imt down to await V , attempt of tho other members of the party. We were tx) tired to enjoy the scene which took place Our fnends crossed in the usual cautious, humble way, but with more difficulty. Tliere was less strenf/th in worming over the body of the one and in lifting the other by a series of efiforts. We could not refrain from laughing, tired as we wore, at the primitive mode of progression, and the jnoment all were acrijss we moved on for the goal. Few words were spoken. It seemed as if our energies wtrc numbered, and that every effort lessened the staying power .f each.. W. were now nearly opjtosite Laggan, south about a mile, and hig!i a}>ove the valley. The way was hTiil thi*ough forest for nearly two miles, and after that one and a half along tho triKsk. Dark- ness was settling upon us rapidly, but we had raached well known land marks of the previous day, and were soon on the Mllsido, where we picked tho <• morels '* already referred to. it was too dark to see any now, and oar f, t\ ' \\ 14 energies nearly gone ; another mile of toiling along the path skirting the Bow, and the forest tramp ended. By the friendly light of the moon wo kept our way ; very few words were ■pokes I. We had reached the end of our strougth, and it was necessary to hus- band the few remaining " foot pounds " the best we C3uld, for there still re- mained over one mile along the track after the Bow was crossed. What a relief was experienced when we stepped ou that bridge ovor which we came some sixteen hours before ; ten of these had been occupied in climbing the moun- tains, and over five in descending it. We reached Laggan a few minutes after ten a.m., tired, wet and exhausted. Some members of the mounted police, who were tented near us, kindly assisted us in preparing something to eat and drink. Four men more hungry than we never sat at a table. Tho meal was simple, yet hunger gave it a reltflh almost unknown to any of vs. The normal condition of our bodies being restored, the silence was soon broken, and each testified to his hopes and faars during the feat just aooompliMhod. Wet and tired as we were, there was some fear that the following morning would find us much the worse of the ordeal we had passed. We did not sit late that night, but soon retired to refresh our wearied limbs. It was not long before all were asleep, dreaming of glacial lakes, mountain torrents, dense forests and thrilling scenes which no doubt had been impressed upon our minds for the remainder of our lives. Morning dawned and all were soon astir. Imagine the surprise and quick movements of one who on awakening remem- bered that he had hung outside of the tent to dry a coat which contained all hiu money and some valuable papers. Fortunate for him all was found safe. His purse might have easily been taken by men who passed quite close to the tent on their way to work. The writer never awoke stronger or more refreshed from any sleep, no vestige of weariness was experienced or ovil effects from the previous day's exposure. However, there was one reminder of the rough jour- ney home. The long march down the mountain side with shoes thoroughly wet had made havoc of his feet so that when he aroso, the first movements of them were amimpanied with much pain. As for the fhoes worn the day before not a trace of blackening was left, the original color of leather alone remained and a hardness which seeme% af Natxire'a sweet restorer. It tteomod but a luoraeut from the time I heard that voice say|4.)f>, when I awoke, and loukiug at my watch, diucovored that in twonty-fivc minutes our train would )}e on the way to the summit. No fllumberer now remainad undisturbed. A gcuornl atampede took place and movements made in every direction while wo attempted to prepare a scanty meal and lunch. Each triod to do as many things as ponHibld at the same time, 80 that a few minutes Wefore our time — 5.30r— was up, the elementary meul was ready. The writer ate heartily a few minutes, then picking up his lunch said "Gentlemen, the train will be off in five minutes; come on, our limit is reached." The three lingered to enjoy that meal, while I daahod across the uusurveyed lots that Intervened between the tent and tlie construction train. The eugino was about to start. From the o{>en car I looked anxiously for my friends. None seemed in sight. A few minutes elapsed and still no signs of the trio. The Warnin.g bell rang, and the engine began with measured strokes to move its cumbrous load. Just aa wo wore entering upon the bridge at Laggan we sav my unfoi-tunate companions speeding up to catch, if jioBHiblf, the slowly niov'.ng train. Alas, the piston strokes were quickening, and it was evident that they had lost their opportunity. 1 felt disaj'poiuted as the distance wideued between us, and knew this was the last day to visit the tunnel, and meant a walk of fourteen miles to those whom I had endeavored to impress by precept and example that trains never wait for passengers. However, I felt confident that my friends would turn up somewhere about the end of the track during the day. LAKE SUMMIT. A few minutes' run, and the summit, about ten miles west of Laggan, was reached. The lake here, named from ito situation Lake Summit, presents some peculiarities worthy of notice. It can scarcely be termed a lake, for it covers only some two acres and is only about three feet deep, but its waters are clear r.s crystal and cold as ice, like all the mountain water. It presents noth- ing of the appearance of a pond in lower and warmer regions w.'iere such a body of water would be filled with weeds of all kinds, and water tinged yellow from the decomposition of vegetable matter. The water from this attractive lake, 5,181 feet above sea level, on the east side flows with rapid current down to the Swift waters of the 15ow River, the wooer of many a mountain stream, while those on the west, after a tortuous course, reach the placid waters of Kicking Horse Lake, from which they eventually pass to the Pacific Ocean. Thus this lake, well named Summit, is the great water shed that divides streams whose waters reach the Atlantic on the one side and the Pacific on the other. In one part of this lake I found an exceedingly interesting plant, Chara fragilis, and along the south side some very beautiful specimens of the genus Lycojwdium, The former possesses the power of secreting large quantiticH of lime, which forms so much of its tissue that the plant has quite a hard, gritty feel, and on drying becomes exceedingly brittle. The cold, clear sparkling water of this elevated lake, and the peculiar position it occupies on the dividing lino between the waters of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans will always secure it more than a mere passing notice. From a little beyond the Summit, alone I Bet out to walk amid some awe-inspiring scenery. Bei^g comparatively early the air in the valley was but little affected by the sun, which was now tinging the lofty snow clad summits in glistening wreaths of ever clianging splendor. Here, the sun does not rise completely until nearly one hour after it has been seen gilding the rocky pinnacles with it.s light. From summit to summit the light skips, reaching farther down until at last it bathes the foot of the moun- tains in golden 'lunshine and no crag can longer hide its face from view. Tiiere was every appearance of a gorgeous day and all nature seemed comViiniug to make our last day among the mountains one of inexpressible grandeur. *;^ ."■■'"'■■ WW '^^^^^ ^m 'r KICXniO B0B8B LAKE. A short walk and Kiokin^ Home Lake is reaohod. ThiR is a beautiful sheet of water coverin^t about six acres, and surrounded by high mountains. The track passes half way round, then turns to the left and follows the course of the Kicking Horse Kiver, which forms an outlet to the lake. Where the track first touches the lake a seething stream from the mountain pnBHcs under it to mingle its turbulent waters with those of the calm lake. At this place a large and substantial saw mill has been erected. From this mill, after some examination of its workings, I passed along the curved track following the margin of the lake, passing ■* dynamite factory situated near the outlet of the lake. Here the track turns westward, and fol- lows with a steep grade, 230 feet to the mile, the course of the Kicking Horse River. Up to this point a traveller is struck with the comparatively small amount of work that has been entailed in making the way through this pass. True, ther*) are places where some difficulty has been experienced ; but taken as a whole the line along Bow Biver has been wonderfully aided by nature. Hitherto I had seen much of scenery that was full of charm and beauty, but now language failed to describe the glory and grandeur that sxirrounds the traveller who wends his way along the many curves of the the Kicking Horse River and down one of the steepest grades in the world. To your right and left are the mountains, apparently piercing the very clouds with their lofty summitb. Along a shelf blasted out of the rock at iixtervals the track is laid. Beh>v/ this, at first but a few feet, is the swift current ; this is soon much lower in the ravine as you advance, and the course of the river deepens downward into the great valley below. In some places the maddening waters are forced through a narrow deft in tbd rock, and from the confined exit it brrsts with terrible fury and striking splendor. Farther on it leaps into a natural basin and boils within the con- stricted area until it forces out and plunges downward along its precipitous oourse. At any oint in your walk you can stop and witneus the furious current lashing against the sides of its confined channel as it rolls in magnificent grandeur downward and .onward to the waters of Columbia Biver. Curve after curve you accompany this noisy stream, apparently at your feet, until at last yon reach the first bridge over its seething waters, where they pass into the deep and darkened ravine below. No soul could fail to be touched bathed in such surroundings. The impoaiug grandeur of the silent monuments around you, the bracing air of the mountains, and the noisy turmoil of the foaming stream combine to fill your soul with awe. Fear passes from you, and places which under ordinary conditions you ivould dread to walk over become surrounded by a charm that woos you to venture anywhere. The first bridge is some eighty feet above the river. True the track is laid over it, but it is not this that gives you the confidence to walk over the yawn- ing abyss below. All fear passes away. You are a child of the mountiuu, and like those cradled amid such scenery you know nothing but to dare. Bridge after bridge was crossed alone, some with but a single beam across, for I had now got beyond the track, and was pushing my way on to the first tunnel. As I continued my walk along the shell upon the mountain side, the glorious and ever-changing panorama of nature passed before me, sometimes a glimpse of *he rapid Kicking home 500 feet below, at othertt a magnificent glacier gliding with slow but certain rate among the mountains. Aiter walMng along the enchanting way for about four miles, which had occupied some five hours, I reaohod the tunnel. This is somewhat disappointing when seen. It is only about 120 feet through the Bide of a raountaiu around which there was no opportunity to blast out a tthelf as in many places passed. I walked no farther westward. At this point there is a very fine view of the valley 500 leat below. Tba river is muoh wider, its water shaJJow, And iJutngb -17 flowing npidly, still it has not the wild onward rush observed farther up the valley. Chi one side of it in the flat then ia qnitd a villafor fellow was carried into the operating room from a tent outside, I held my hat over bin pnle face to shade him from the Hcorching rays of the sun that beat down in the deep valley. Under the skilful manipulation of Dr. Ortdn the operation was soon over. Not far from this, amon^, the treon of this valley, two young men who died in the hospital are buried. The tents will soon be lifted, and the evanescent village located farther down the track, for as construction progresses these transiout eating-houseH, etc., move aloni; ; but the last resting place of these straugerB in that lonely spot will remain at the foot of the lofty mountains, near tho ceaseless turmoil of the river, amid the dreary firs. While looking down the valley from the tunnel I saw a very interesting Right. About fifty freight wagons drawn by mulen were on their way from the Colum- bia River. Several pack mules, heavily loaded, were also in the prciCQfision. The whole cavalcade was slowly wending its way along the river, and some- times in it, towards the tents which they intended to reach about midday. Iietumiuj4 honiowai-d along the track it was exceedingly hot, and while sitting at the side of a delightful stream issuing from cool spots fur up the mountain side enjoying the surroundings, lo I two of my unfortunate companions turned in to quench their thirst at the same place. They had walked t^ic whole way from Lsggan. Tlie huutaman tired had stopped a short distniiKt. I'arther back, The others, determinetl to see the tunnel, were pushing on. I could not i^ersuade them to return, but we arranged to moot again at the construction train some two miles back. We all mot in good time to get the benefit of a ride to Laggan on the trail), and had ample opportunity, while waiting, to feast u{ion the magnificent scenery that was to be seen on every side. A good collection of tvpical rock fragments was made, and some of the interesting plants seen in that region secured. About (t o'clock the train left for Laggan. As we steamed along around the curve and up the steep grade we gazed for tl'.e last time upon scenery whioh had made our trip to the end of the track so intensely interesting. Skirting the beautiful Kicking Horse Lake, passing through the centre of Lake Bummi^ and crossing the Bow River, we soon reached Laggan. Around the camp fire, whioh had been made larger than usual that night, we disoussed the visit now drawing to a close, for next morning we intended to return east and examine some spots of interest. The night was not very dark, so that, as we sat by the cheerful fire, we could look up and see Laggan glacier in its lonely splendor, and the lofty mountain which we had climbed a few days before. The well defined contour of the rocky sentinels aronnd Laggan seemed more beautiful in the darkness than during the brightness of day. Next morning, after a refreshing sleep, we were all astir and busily engaged packing up long before the sun had begun to tint with its light the snow-clad summits around us. At an early hour all was leady, and at 6.45 the train (tteamed out from Laggan for the east. What we had missed in coming west through the mountain during the night we now saw in all the brightness of noonday. The weather had been charming during our whole visit, and did not change at our departure. About noon, after skirting the Bow River the whole way, wa emerged from the mountains and passed into the great plain over which we were to spend days in crossing. .i .\ -J 1 ^•w^ -^"?"! ?'■•;'«» m,;i3^ '" 'Wf"- , I • i : l — ,18 MOBLBYVUiLE. From MorimrTilU the aoene wm mo«t inviting. Amwrently bat a f«w milM ftw»y tb« BoclEy BCoontAini seemed to rise abruptly from the plain forming A magiiflewit baok gromid to the vaat area that with' gentle Aope Htretohea east- ward, while oloae at hand the Bow Hiver threaded ite way between prooipitooa banke to the waten of the mighty Saskatchewan. Rapidly we ptuM»d along throogh ranohe-land and over river "bottoms" till Calgary was reached. Here ftdiort delay was made but we soon started again, and followed ouruoorM over the great grazing oount/y of the Bow Biver district. It is a charming region of beaatifol rolling Itiod, covered by a dense mat of riohest green. Aboat aonset Oieiohen was reached, a stop made for refreshments, and iMre we caught the last glimpse of the Rookieii, nearly 100 miles west, yet their well-defined outline could be readily distinguished along the distant horizon. Having taken a farewell look of the distant mountains we soon passod into the dArkness. It was decided that two of us, the writer and the botauist, should get off at Medicine Hat, while the others went to Irvine and pitched the tent where we intended to make a good search in tiio ravine tliere for reptilian remains. A.ltout S a.m. we reached St&ir, the nearest station to the Saskat- chewan coal mines. At this place we left the train and started across the prairie for tUe mine, about one mile distant. COAL MINES. On the banks of the Baskatchwewan, about seven miles above Medicine Hat, are located t^he coal mines of that district. At the time of our visit work was about to be renewed for the fall and winter trade. Largo orders hud been S'ven from both east and west, and the manager, Mr. Lawson, seemed satisfied lat the cojil would be iu greater demand than the previous year. We entered the tine, and were highly pleased with the superior nature of this lignite, almc-st approaching a bituminous coal in appearance. Specimens from the seam wore taken, and afterwards shown to some miring engineers who aooompaniFd the British Association. They expressed themselves highly pleased, and considered it excellent. At the preuent time IdO tons are being taken out daily. This coal kindles readily, gives out intense heat, forms no clinkers, and so far gives most satisfactory roHults to couHumors. Approaching the mines from the pruirie you see iitt' or no indication of tlie great valley through which, the Saskatchewan passen. It is only when you oome directly upon it that you observe, and are iinprossed with the work nature can perform through the agency of water. The banks here are 293 feet above the level of the stream, and appear to have been excavated in every direction by streams no longer seen &nd sprinj{ freshets of motiern times. The mijtes are not located directly on the banks of the river, but on the sides of one of the great ravines. The following represents a vertical section at this place: Prairie level 293 feet. Drift, Handy clays, light sand shales, clay and saudR 190 " Iiimeetone and saud i2 ft.), followed by dark shade 170 " Coal 6«mD), 1 ft thick 160 " SbaJe, a thin »eam of coal, clay shale, iron and sand (t^laches) 114 " Coal Beam 4i^ feet 110 " UnJer-cIay, nandyclay. and baud of hIicIIh 4 inulies 90 " 8andy clay, hard band (5 in.) and band of shellH'7 in.), coal (Sin) 80 " • Iron liHiid (9 iucheH), coal soaui 4J feet, buin^ worked 70- " Under-clay 3 feet, coal 2 feet, eandy clay and brown clay ao " Iron band iu which l>eauliful fossil leaves occur 90 " Light sandy clay to the water level .-. " Already the opening up of this mine has been u, great boon to the people of the Northwest. To those of the far west it has brought a cheap and excellent foeL To the people of Winnipeg, 660 miles eost, it has reduced the prioe of Amerioan coal to $12.50 per ton, by introducing native coal at ir7.50. We seenred some beautiful fossil leaves from the band of ironstone a few feet above the level of the river. These are quite circular, resembling on a small h : Pi the you work feet one thi» Ice I feet smaU •oal* ihe ImI of the water lily. Aaaooiated with them are plant* alUed to tho lionetails (Eqoiaetumt. Above the level of this a few fnot the petrified remaina of tree* are aoite oommun. The femur of a gigantic Dinosaur was found this amnmer in the depmiita a thort diatanoe from the mineH. The animal life of thia plaoe ia interenting, and Heema to indicate climatic conditions somewhat different from other partH of the Northwest. Here the rattlesnake in common, and the horned toatl, usuhlly found far south, is frequently ubsorved. mVIKE RAVINE. Leaving the mine we drove across tho country to Ir>'ine, some twenty miles distant, where we arrived by 8 a.m., and found our companions enjoying the luxury of a profound sleep. This was soon interrupted upon our arrival, and aa soon as posHible three of us started south in quest of reptilian remains, for which this place has become somewhat noted. Liast year fruitlesH attempts had been made to discover remains found a previous year. On this occasion we determined to secure them, and thus set out for a loii^; and hard day's work. We walked for alxiut four miles eouth along the trail to the ('ypreuH Hills, then turning to the right made for the main ravine. Along this intensiely interesting depression among the wonderful "weathered" hills we toiled and climbed. Up to 12.30 no rich results rewarded (jur efforts. Innumerable beautiful orystaw of Selenite were found amon^; tlie clays of some H^jots. and many large dam-like shells were obtained, but the ^oat object of our nearch remeinud untteen. Pro- cneotaniHt had taken a long route. By this time it was sunset. Loaded with tho results of our work we started for the tent and reached it after a most wearisome walk. The himtsman had a most excellent supper ready, for he had been very su<3cesB- ful bagging ducks during the day. ANOTHER HUNT. Next day we determined to visit the interesting hfiunts of last year and make further search. Consequently we started out, and after a short walk reached the plaoe of absorbing iuterest. There was very little difficulty in finding aM--' ■^^im' \-*^ Wi t tlpl^i^ .y(7^j4'^A»-' -*r'«-*^' I £ Mil lis Ik. vm 1m IfO >ld WH* I