St. Louis, May 10, 1849.
Colonel MCKAY
Dear Sir.- When I had the honor of calling at your house, before your departure for Fort Leavenworth, I regret that the thought did not strike me of speaking and recommending to you, Captain Fitzpatrick. Were he to be attached and to accompany the expedition to Fort Hall, he would indeed be a great acquisition to the party.-The captain is identified with the whole of that region, having
spent the greater part of his life in it. He knows the localities well, and is acquainted with all the tribes who reside in it.- Captain Fitzpatrick is too well known to need
any recommendation. I had the pleasure and happiness of traveling in his company during the whole summer of 1842, being my second expedition to the mountains, and every day I learned to appreciate him more and more.
The captain arrived in St. Louis two days ago. He would willingly accompany the expedition, should the Government
approve of it. He is still in its service as Indian agent over the whole upper region of the Platte river.- His attendance would, in my humble opinion, be of the greatest advantage to the expedition.
Colonel, please to excuse my boldness, in writing to you on such a subject. I do it from the best of motives and with the best of intentions. I need scarcely add, that, should you approve of this suggestion, a note immediately addressed to the proper authorities here, and thence telegraphed to Washington would enable you to secure the valuable services of Captain Fitzpatrick in time to meet you at Fort Laramie.
I remain, etc.
Liverpool, July 7, 1843.
Reverend and Most Dear Father:
No doubt your Reverence must feel anxious to receive a letter from your poor unworthy servant. I will not enter