human
My son! was all she could say.
gpt
They told me that you never would come back, that you were dead. I thought the wilderness had claimed you at last, Merne!
human
I told you I should come back to you safe, mother. There was no danger at any time. From St. Louis I have come as fast as any messenger could have come. Next I must go to see Mr. Jefferson at Washington--then, back home again to talk with you, for long, long hours.
gpt
And what have you found?
human
More than I can tell you in a year! We found the mysterious river, the Columbia--found where it runs into the ocean, where it starts in the mountains. We found the head of the Missouri--the Ohio is but a creek beside it. We crossed plains and mountains more wonderful than any we have ever dreamed of. We saw the most wonderful land in all the world, mother--and we made it ours!
gpt
And you did that? Merne, was _that_ why the wilderness called to you? My boy has done all that? Your country will reward you. I should not complain of all these years of absence. You are happy now, are you not?
human
I should be the happiest of men. I can take to Mr. Jefferson, our best friend, the proof that he was right in his plans. His great dream has come true, and I in some part helped to make it true. Should I not now be happy?
gpt
You should be, Merne, but are you?
human
I am well, and I find you still well and strong. My friend, Will Clark, has come back with me hearty as a boy. Everything has been fortunate with us. Look at me, he demanded, turning and stretching out his mighty arms.
gpt
I am strong. My men all came through without loss or injury--the splendid fellows! It is wonderful that in risks such as ours we met with no ill fortune.
human
Yes, but are you happy? Turn your face to me.
gpt
I told my friend, William Clark, he said lightly, as he rose,