Sentence:  Propelling the <WSD>packet-boat</WSD> up the stream was the most laborious and dangerous employment which can be imagined. The Indians were unceasing in their efforts to destory small parties of whites, as they were passing up or down the river Ohio. There were then but few places between Cincinnati and Wheeling, for the <WSD>packet-boat</WSD> to rest at night safely. 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  River or canal boat that carries mail.