Meaning: This quote is attributed to George Dawson, a Canadian scientist and geologist who played a significant role in the exploration and mapping of western Canada in the late 19th century. The quote is from his journal, where he reflects on the landscape and character of the country he was exploring.

In the quote, Dawson refers to the Buttes, which likely indicates a specific geographical feature or region in the area he was exploring. He notes that the country has been of better character since leaving the Buttes than to the east of them. This suggests that he observed a change in the landscape, potentially in terms of topography, vegetation, or other natural features, as he moved away from the Buttes.

Dawson then mentions that the country has a very fertile appearance, indicating that the land he was observing seemed to be rich and capable of supporting vegetation and agriculture. He specifies that this fertile appearance begins around the third crossing of Milk River of the line, providing a specific geographic point of reference for his observation.

It's important to consider the historical context in which Dawson was exploring and documenting these observations. During the late 19th century, the Canadian government was actively promoting the settlement and development of the western regions of the country. Surveyors, geologists, and other scientists like Dawson were instrumental in providing valuable information about the natural resources, potential agricultural land, and geographical features of these areas.

Dawson's observations about the fertility of the land would have been of great interest to government officials, settlers, and potential investors who were seeking opportunities for agricultural development and economic growth in the region. His detailed documentation of the landscape would have contributed to the growing body of knowledge about the western territories of Canada, helping to inform decisions about settlement, resource extraction, and infrastructure development.

The mention of the Milk River in Dawson's quote also provides insight into the specific location of his observations. The Milk River is a tributary of the Missouri River, flowing through southern Alberta and into northern Montana. The river and its surrounding valley would have been of particular interest to Dawson as he assessed the agricultural potential of the area.

Overall, Dawson's quote captures a moment in his exploration of the Canadian West, where he reflects on the changing character of the landscape and the apparent fertility of the land. His observations would have been valuable for understanding and promoting the development of the region during a time of significant expansion and settlement in Canada.