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Show TO FORT BRIDGER. 57 country is alluvium, and it bears other evidences of having been once the bottom of an inland sea. From any of the benches the Fort presents a neat and attractive appearance. After passing through what appeared an almost intermin able region of sage- brush and grease- wood, the beautiful green of the small cotton- wood and willow trees, and the more beautiful wild roses then in full bloom on the banks of a little stream which runs by the side of the road lead ing to the Fort, made the spot appear a very desirable one for an officer's station, were it not for its isolated position. This post was built by an officer no where better known or more highly appreciated for his sterling qualities than in New Orleans. I refer to Gen. Canby. The quarters are constructed of hewn logs, and those of the officers neatly plastered and provided with such conveniences as to afford a comfortable home to those who have to occupy them. In the vicinity game is abundant. The sage - hen the largest known bird of the grouse family are said to be more numerous here than in any part of the West. I have seen some almost the size of an ordinary wild turkey. Not many miles distant deer and elk are to be found, while the streams are full of the most beautiful brook trout, weighing from half a pound to a pound and a half. To an officer fond of hunting or fishing, the sport here Afforded must in a great measure recompense for the waiit of society and little inconveniences incident to life at such a remote sta tion ; and, indeed, taking all things in consideration, I felt like congratulating those who were to remain, for I considered it preferable to any post we passed on the route. Along our journey I made frequent inquiries of those I met concerning the military stations as we approached them ; and whenever I conversed with an individual who could give me any information about Fort Bridger, I was almost certain to hear during the conversation some such remark as the following : " And you will find Judge Carter, the sutler, there, and a finer gentleman you never met." We met the Judge and he proved to be all that had been repre sented. Judge Carter is Probate Judge of the County, |