ACT I.
(Senator Benton talking to Van Buren:)
Benton: The West is a great country, Mr. President. We should have it explored and investigated.
Van Buren: I agree with you, Senator Benton. The West should be explored. If we had a good man to send on this expedition.
Benton: I know a man, Mr. President; John C. Fremont. He is an experienced engineer, and loves the wild life of adventure.
Van Buren: Bring Fremont to me.
(Fremont enters and is introduced by Benton).
Van Buren: You are an explorer of note, Mr. Fremont? Will you undertake a journey to the Rocky Mountains and bring back a report of that country?
Fremont: Yes, I am very much interested in exploring the West, and with your permission and the permission of Congress, will try to find out all that we can about that great country.
End of Act I.