Monday, February 22.
Captain Pike.
Mr. J. Montgomery observed, that to Captains Lewis and Clarke, who had explored the Western country, a compensation had been made; he held in his hand a similar resolution for remunerating Captain Pike for the important services he had rendered on an almost similar expedition, which he proposed, as follows:
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to inquire what compensation ought to be made to Captain Pike and his companions for their services in exploring the Mississippi River, and in their late expedition to the sources of the Osage, Arkansas, and La Platte Rivers, together with their tour through New Spain; and that they have leave to report by bill or otherwise.
Mr. Marion objected to the phraseology of the resolution, as sanctioning a general principle, to which he was not prepared to assent. The resolution did not go to inquire if any compensation, but what compensation, should be given; thus taking it for granted that some remuneration should be made. Mr. M. wished it to be so modified as to inquire “if any, and, if any, what,” compensation should be granted.
Mr. Montgomery acceding to this alteration, the resolution was adopted.