Meaning: The quote provided is from William Ashley, a prominent American businessman and politician who is best known for his role in the fur trade industry in the early 19th century. The quote reflects Ashley's approach to exploring and exploiting the natural resources found in the American West, particularly the rivers and streams that were crucial to the fur trade.

In the early 1800s, the fur trade was a major industry in the United States, and the western territories were rich with valuable fur-bearing animals such as beavers, otters, and minks. Ashley was one of the key figures in the expansion of the fur trade business, and he is often credited with revolutionizing the industry by introducing the "Ashley's Hundred" system, which employed a large number of trappers and traders to work in the remote and often dangerous wilderness.

The quote suggests that Ashley recognized the potential for profit in the streams and rivers of the American West. Instead of rushing through the territories in search of quick gains, he adopted a more deliberate and strategic approach. He moved slowly along the streams, allowing his men to thoroughly explore and exploit the resources they found. This approach allowed for more careful and sustainable extraction of furs, as well as the establishment of more permanent trading posts and encampments.

Ashley's emphasis on slow, deliberate progress is evident in his mention of averaging not more than five or six miles per day and sometimes remaining two days at the same encampment. This deliberate pace allowed his men to thoroughly survey and exploit the natural resources of the region, ensuring a more sustainable and long-term approach to the fur trade.

Furthermore, Ashley's approach reflects a deep understanding of the natural environment and its importance to the success of the fur trade. By taking the time to explore and understand the streams and rivers, Ashley and his men were able to maximize their profits while minimizing the negative impact on the environment. This approach stands in contrast to the more exploitative and short-sighted tactics employed by some of Ashley's contemporaries in the fur trade.

In addition to his contributions to the fur trade, Ashley also played a significant role in American politics. He served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and was instrumental in promoting the economic development of the western territories. His business acumen and understanding of the natural resources of the West made him a key figure in the expansion and economic development of the United States during this period.

In conclusion, William Ashley's quote reflects his strategic and deliberate approach to exploring and exploiting the natural resources of the American West, particularly the streams and rivers that were crucial to the fur trade industry. His emphasis on careful and sustainable progress, as well as his deep understanding of the natural environment, set him apart as a prominent figure in both the fur trade and the economic development of the western territories.