Chapter XVI · Chapter 16

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The huge barrier of the Rocky Mountains was {314} not known, and it was only in the effort to reach the Pacific by water that they were discovered.

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

third-person singular of “achieve” — to gain with effort

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

willing to undertake or seeking out new and daring enterprises

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

past form of “afford” — be able to spare or give up

From this reading At the first it was hoped that the Mississippi afforded such a passage.

European herb somewhat resembling celery widely naturalized in Britain coastal regions and often cultivated as a potherb

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

(quantifier) used with either mass or count nouns to indicate the whole number or amount of or every one of a class

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

the regions to the north of the Arctic Circle centered on the North Pole

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

at the same time that; because; in the way that

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading At the first it was hoped that the Mississippi afforded such a passage.

a structure or object that impedes free movement

From this reading The huge barrier of the Rocky Mountains was {314} not known, and it was only in the effort to reach the Pacific by water that they were discovered.

used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

on the far side of; further than

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

having or covered with or accompanied by blood

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

showing who or what does the action

From this reading The huge barrier of the Rocky Mountains was {314} not known, and it was only in the effort to reach the Pacific by water that they were discovered.

move while supporting, either in a vehicle or in one's hands or on one's body

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

a communist nation that covers a vast territory in eastern Asia; the most populous country in the world

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

transactions (sales and purchases) having the objective of supplying commodities (goods and services)

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

one of the large landmasses of the earth

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

plural of “difficulty” — an effort that is inconvenient

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

discover or determine the existence, presence, or fact of

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

discovered or determined by scientific observation

From this reading The huge barrier of the Rocky Mountains was {314} not known, and it was only in the effort to reach the Pacific by water that they were discovered.

the state of being unsure of something

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

A series of thoughts, images, or emotions during sleep.

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

plural of “dwelling” — housing that someone is living in

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something

From this reading The huge barrier of the Rocky Mountains was {314} not known, and it was only in the effort to reach the Pacific by water that they were discovered.

undergo or live through a difficult experience

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

plural of “explorer” — someone who travels into little known regions (especially for some scientific purpose)

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

opinion or judgment

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

indulging in or influenced by fancy

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading At the first it was hoped that the Mississippi afforded such a passage.

the motion characteristic of fluids (liquids or gases)

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

plural of “flow” — the motion characteristic of fluids (liquids or gases)

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

third-person singular of “follow” — to travel behind, go after, come after

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

plural of “forest” — the trees and other plants in a large densely wooded area

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

set up or found

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

relatively large in size or number or extent; larger than others of its kind

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

an arm of a sea or ocean partly enclosed by land; larger than a bay

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

a specific instance of feeling hopeful

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

past form of “hope” — expect and wish

From this reading At the first it was hoped that the Mississippi afforded such a passage.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

unusually great in size or amount or degree or especially extent or scope

From this reading The huge barrier of the Rocky Mountains was {314} not known, and it was only in the effort to reach the Pacific by water that they were discovered.

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

plural of “indian” — a native or inhabitant of India

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

plural of “indie” — a pop group not affiliated with a major record company

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

being of such surpassing excellence as to suggest inspiration by the gods

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

moving to the inside of something

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading At the first it was hoped that the Mississippi afforded such a passage.

plural of “keel” — a projection or ridge that suggests a keel

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

apprehended with certainty

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

a formation of people or things one beside another

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

primarily temporal sense; being or indicating a relatively great or greater than average duration or passage of time or a duration as specified

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

prolonged unfulfilled desire or need

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

Canadian explorer (born in England) who explored the Mackenzie River and who was first to cross North America by land north of Mexico (1764-1820)

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

a major North American river and the chief river of the United States; rises in northern Minnesota and flows southward into the Gulf of Mexico

From this reading At the first it was hoped that the Mississippi afforded such a passage.

plural of “mountain” — a land mass that projects well above its surroundings; higher than a hill

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

a brief written record

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

a large body of water constituting a principal part of the hydrosphere

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

and nothing more

From this reading The huge barrier of the Rocky Mountains was {314} not known, and it was only in the effort to reach the Pacific by water that they were discovered.

a severe or trying experience

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

above and across; more than

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

the largest ocean in the world

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

something determined in relation to something that includes it

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

the act of passing from one state or place to the next

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

have the will and intention to carry out some action

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

reach a destination, either real or abstract

From this reading The huge barrier of the Rocky Mountains was {314} not known, and it was only in the effort to reach the Pacific by water that they were discovered.

plural of “reach” — the limits within which something can be effective

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

the act of physically reaching or thrusting out

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

plural of “return” — document giving the tax collector information about the taxpayer's tax liability

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

a large natural stream of water (larger than a creek)

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

abounding in rocks or stones

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

an established line of travel or access

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

a division of an ocean or a large body of salt water partially enclosed by land

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

inflected form of “see” — perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

primarily temporal sense; indicating or being or seeming to be limited in duration

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

unusual or striking

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

an enlisted man or woman who serves in an army

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

(quantifier) used with either mass nouns or plural count nouns to indicate an unspecified number or quantity

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

plural of “son” — a male human offspring

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

a natural body of running water flowing on or under the earth

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading At the first it was hoped that the Mississippi afforded such a passage.

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading At the first it was hoped that the Mississippi afforded such a passage.

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world; an organized system of accepted knowledge that applies in a variety of circumstances to explain a specific set of phenomena

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

the people, animals, or things already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading The huge barrier of the Rocky Mountains was {314} not known, and it was only in the effort to reach the Pacific by water that they were discovered.

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

in the direction of

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

extraordinarily large in size or extent or amount or power or degree

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

moved around an axis or center

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

the act of taking revenge (harming someone in retaliation for something harmful that they have done) especially in the next life

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading At the first it was hoped that the Mississippi afforded such a passage.

binary compound that occurs at room temperature as a clear colorless odorless tasteless liquid; freezes into ice below 0 degrees centigrade and boils above 100 degrees centigrade; widely used as a solvent

From this reading The huge barrier of the Rocky Mountains was {314} not known, and it was only in the effort to reach the Pacific by water that they were discovered.

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading THE VERENDRYES DISCOVER THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS Verendrye's Experience as a Fur-trader.--As a Soldier.--He returns to the Forests.--His Plan for reaching the Pacific.--Tremendous Difficulties in his Way.--He reaches the Mandans.--His Sons discover the Rocky Mountains.--Alexander Mackenzie follows the Mackenzie River to the Arctic Ocean.--He achieves a Passage over the Mountains to the Pacific.--Note on Mandan Indians.--Mah-to-toh-pa's Vengeance.--Singular Dwellings of the Mandans.--Their Bloody Ordeal.--Skin-boats.--Catlin's Fanciful Theory.

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading We have seen how the dream of a short route to China and the Indies inspired a long line of adventurous explorers.

the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

relating to or characteristic of the western parts of the world or the West as opposed to the eastern or oriental parts

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

at the time that

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading When it was known beyond all doubt that the Great River flows into the Gulf, not the "Western Sea," longing eyes were turned toward the western part of the continent, in the hope that some stream would be found flowing into the Pacific which would carry the keels of commerce Indiaward.