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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Life of Kit Carson, by Edward S. Ellis
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Life of Kit Carson
+
+Author: Edward S. Ellis
+
+Release Date: April, 2005  [EBook #7882]
+Posting Date: July 26, 2009
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Martin Robb
+
+
+
+
+
+THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON,
+
+Hunter, Trapper, Guide, Indian Agent and Colonel U.S.A.
+
+By Edward S. Ellis.
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+Christopher Carson, or as he was familiarly called, Kit Carson, was
+a man whose real worth was understood only by those with whom he was
+associated or who closely studied his character. He was more than
+hunter, trapper, guide, Indian agent and Colonel in the United States
+Army. He possessed in a marked degree those mental and moral qualities
+which would have made him prominent in whatever pursuit or profession he
+engaged.
+
+His lot was cast on the extreme western frontier, where, when but a
+youth, he earned the respect of the tough and frequently lawless men
+with whom he came in contact. Integrity, bravery, loyalty to friends,
+marvelous quickness in making right decisions, in crisis of danger,
+consummate knowledge of woodcraft, a leadership as skilful as it was
+daring; all these were distinguishing traits in the composition of
+Carson and were the foundations of the broader fame which he acquired as
+the friend and invaluable counselor of Fremont, the Pathfinder, in his
+expeditions across the Rocky Mountains.
+
+Father Kit, as he came to be known among the Indians, risked his life
+scores of times for those who needed, but had no special claim upon his
+services. The red men were quick to learn that he always spoke with a
+"single tongue," and that he was their unselfish friend. He went among
+his hostiles when no one of his race dare follow him; he averted
+more than one outbreak; he secured that which is impossible to
+secure--justice for the Indian--and his work from the time when a mere
+boy he left his native Kentucky, was always well done. His memory will
+forever remain fragrant with those who appreciate true manhood and an
+unswerving devotion to the good of those among whom he lived and died.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+
+ Kit Carson's Youth--His Visit to New Mexico--Acts as Interpreter and in
+ Various Other Employments--Joins a Party of Trappers and Engages in a
+ Fight with Indians--Visits the Sacramento Valley.
+
+"Kit Carson," the most famous hunter, scout and guide ever known in this
+country, was a native of Kentucky, the scene of the principal exploits
+of Daniel Boone, Simon Kenton, the Wetzel brothers and other heroic
+pioneers whose names are identified with the history of the settlement
+of the West.
+
+Christopher Carson was born in Madison county, December 24, 1809, and,
+while he was still an infant, his father removed to Central Missouri,
+which at that day was known as Upper Louisiana. It was an immense
+wilderness, sparsely settled and abounding with wild animals and
+treacherous Indians. The father of Carson, like most of the early
+pioneers, divided his time between cultivating the land and hunting
+the game in the forests. His house was made strong and was pierced with
+loopholes, so as to serve him in his defence against the red men that
+were likely to attack him and his family at any hour of the day or
+night. In such a school was trained the wonderful scout, hunter and
+guide.
+
+No advantages in the way of a common school education were within reach
+of the youth situated as was Kit Carson. It is to be believed, however,
+that under the tutelage of his father and mother, he picked up a fair
+knowledge of the rudimentary branches, for his attainments in that
+respect were above the majority of those with whom he was associated in
+after life.
+
+While a mere stripling, Kit became known as one of the most skilful
+rifle shots in that section of Missouri which produced some of the
+finest marksmen in the world. It was inevitable that he should form a
+passion for the woods, in which, like the great Boone, he would have
+been happy to wander for days and weeks at a time.
+
+When fifteen years old, he was apprenticed to a saddler, where he stayed
+two years. At the end of that time, however, the confinement had become
+so irksome that he could stand it no longer. He left the shop and joined
+a company of traders, preparing to start for Santa Fe, the capital of
+New Mexico, one of the most interesting towns in the southwest. The
+majority of its population are of Spanish and Mexican origin and speak
+Spanish. It is the centre of supplies for the surrounding country, and
+is often a scene of great activity. It stands on a plateau, more than
+a mile above the sea level, with another snow capped mountain rising a
+mile higher. The climate is delightful and the supply of water from the
+springs and mountains is of the finest quality.
+
+Santa Fe, when first visited by the Spaniards in 1542, was a populous
+Indian pueblo. It has been the capital of New Mexico for nearly two
+hundred and fifty years. The houses of the ancient town are made of
+adobe, one story high, and the streets are unpaved, narrow, crooked and
+ill looking. The inhabitants are of a low order, scarcely entitled to
+be ranked above the half civilized, though of late years the infusion of
+western life and rugged civilization has given an impetus and character
+to the place for which, through three centuries, it waited in vain.
+
+The company to which young Kit Carson attached himself, was strongly
+armed and it made the perilous journey, across rivers, mountains and
+prairies, through a country infested with fierce Indians, without the
+loss of one of their number. This immunity was due to their vigilance
+and knowledge of the ways of the hostiles who, it may be said, were on
+all sides, from the beginning to the end of their journey.
+
+After reaching Santa Fe, Carson left the party and went to Taos, a small
+station to the north of Santa Fe. There he stayed through the winter of
+1826-27, at the home of a veteran pioneer, from whom he gained not only
+a valuable knowledge of the country and its people, but became familiar
+with the Spanish language--an attainment which proved invaluable to
+him in after years. In the spring, he joined a party which set out
+for Missouri, but before reaching its destination, another company of
+traders were met on their way to Santa Fe. Young Carson joined them, and
+some days later was back again in the quaint old capital of New Mexico.
+
+The youth's engagement ended with his arrival in the town, but there
+was nothing indolent in the nature of Carson, who immediately engaged
+himself as teamster to a company about to start to El Paso, on the Rio
+Grande, near the frontier of New Mexico. He did not stay long before
+drifting back to Santa Fe, and finally to Taos, where he hired out as
+a cook during the following winter, but had not wrought long, when
+a wealthy trader, learning how well Carson understood the Spanish
+language, engaged him as interpreter.
+
+This duty compelled the youth to make another long journey to El Paso
+and Chihuahua, the latter being the capital of the province of the same
+name, and another of those ancient towns whose history forms one of the
+most interesting features of the country. It was founded in 1691 and a
+quarter of a century later, when the adjoining silver mines were in full
+operation, had a population of 70,000, though today it has scarcely a
+fifth of that number.
+
+The position of interpreter was more dignified than any yet held by
+Carson, and it was at his command, as long as he chose to hold it; but
+to one of his restless nature it soon grew monotonous and he threw it
+up, making his way once more to Taos. The employment most congenial to
+Carson's nature, and the one which he had been seeking ever since he
+left home, was that of hunter and trapper. The scarred veterans whom he
+met in the frontier and frontier posts gave him many accounts of their
+trapping experiences among the mountains and in the gloomy fastnesses
+where, while they hunted the bear, deer, beaver and other animals, the
+wild Indian hunted them.
+
+Carson had been in Taos a short time only when he gained the opportunity
+for which he was searching. A party of trappers in the employ of Kit's
+old friend had just come to Taos, having been driven from their trapping
+grounds by the Indians. The employer set about raising a party strong
+enough to return to the trapping grounds, chastise the hostiles and
+resume business. Knowing the skill and bravery of the young Kentuckian,
+the gentleman made him an offer to join the party and Kit eagerly
+accepted it.
+
+The Mexicans have never been particularly friendly toward their
+neighbors north of the Rio Grande, and at that time a very strict law
+was in force which forbade the issuance of any license to American
+citizens to trap within Mexican territory. The company which mounted
+their horses and rode out of Taos gave the authorities to understand
+that their errand was simply to chastise the red men, whereas their
+real purpose was to engage in trapping. With a view of misleading the
+officers, they took a roundabout route which delayed their arrival in
+the section. Nevertheless, the hunters were desirous of punishing the
+Indians who had taken such liberties with the small party that preceded
+them. On one of the tributaries of the Gila, the trappers came upon the
+identical band whom they attacked with such fierceness that more than a
+dozen were killed and the rest put to flight. The fight was a desperate
+one, but young as Carson was, he acquitted himself in a manner which
+won the warmest praise of those with him. He was unquestionably daring,
+skilful and sagacious, and was certain, if his life was spared, to
+become one of the most valuable members of the party.
+
+Having driven the savages away, the Americans began or rather resumed
+their regular business of trapping. The beavers were so abundant that
+they met with great success. When the rodents seemed to diminish in
+number, the hunters shifted their quarters, pursuing their profession
+along the numerous streams until it was decided to divide into two
+parties, one of which returned to New Mexico, while the other pushed
+on toward the Sacramento Valley in California. Carson accompanied the
+latter, entering the region at that early day when no white man dreamed
+of the vast wealth of gold and precious metals which so crowded her soil
+and river beds that the wonder is the gleaming particles had not been
+detected many years before; but, as the reader knows, they lay quietly
+at rest until that eventful day in 1848, when the secret was revealed by
+Captain Sutter's raceway and the frantic multitudes flocked thither from
+the four quarters of the earth.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+
+ California--Sufferings of the Hunters--The Mission of San Gabriel--The
+ Hudson Bay Trappers--Characteristics of Carson--He Leads the Party which
+ Captures an Indian Village and Secures some Criminals.
+
+California, one of the most magnificent regions of the earth, with its
+amazing mineral wealth, its rich soil and "glorious climate," has its
+belts of sterility and desolation, where the bones of many a traveller
+and animal lie bleaching in the sun, just as they fell years ago, when
+the wretched victim sank down and perished for want of food and water.
+
+The hunting party to which Carson was attached numbered eighteen,
+and they entered one of those forbidding wastes, where they suffered
+intensely. All their skill in the use of the rifle was of no avail, when
+there was no game to shoot and it was not long before they were forced
+to live on horse flesh to escape starvation. This, however, was not so
+trying as might be supposed, provided it did not last until the entire
+party were dismounted.
+
+Fortunately, in their straits, they encountered a party of Mohave
+Indians, who sold them enough food to remove all danger. These Indians
+form a part of the Yuma nation of the Pima family, and now make their
+home on the Mohave and Colorado rivers in Arizona. They are tall, well
+formed, warlike and industrious cultivators of the soil. Had they chosen
+to attack the hunters, it would have gone ill with the whites, but the
+latter showed commendable prudence which might have served as a model to
+the hundreds who came after them, when they gained the good will of the
+red men.
+
+Extricating themselves from the dangerous stretch of country, the
+trappers turned westward until they reached the mission of San Gabriel,
+one of those extensive establishments formed by the Roman Catholic
+clergy a hundred years ago. There were over a score, San Diego being the
+oldest. Each mission had its priests, a few Spanish or Mexican soldiers,
+and scores, hundreds and sometimes thousands of Indian converts who
+received a scant support and some religious instruction.
+
+The Mission of San Gabriel was by no means the largest in California,
+and yet at the time of Carson's visit it owned 70,000 head of cattle,
+200 horses, 3,000 mares, hundreds of mules, oxen and sheep, while the
+vineyards produced 600 barrels of wine every year.
+
+Those old sovereigns of the soil dispensed hospitality without stint to
+all who knocked at their gates. When the trappers caught sight of the
+Mission, as they rode out from the wilderness, they knew what awaited
+them in the way of entertainment. They were treated right royally, but
+remained only one day.
+
+Not far away they reached another Mission of less extent than the
+former, but, without halt, they pressed steadily forward toward the
+Sacramento River. The character of the section changed altogether. It
+was exceedingly fertile and game was so abundant that they feasted to
+their heart's content. When fully rested, they proceeded to the San
+Joaquin river down which they began trapping.
+
+While thus employed, they were surprised to discover signs of another
+trapping party near them. They wondered where they came from and it
+did not take them long to learn that their neighbors were a company of
+trappers belonging to the Hudson Bay Company--that enormous corporation,
+founded two centuries before, whose agents and employees tramp over
+British America, far to the northward of the frozen circle, and until a
+recent date hunted through Oregon.
+
+The two parties were rivals in business, but they showed excellent
+sense by meeting on good terms and treating each other as friends. They
+trapped near each other until they came to the Sacramento once more,
+when they parted company. The Hudson Bay trappers started for the
+Columbia River, while the one to which Carson was attached went into
+camp where they were for the rest of the summer. With the approach of
+warm weather the trapping season ended and they devoted themselves to
+hunting and making ready for cold weather.
+
+It will be borne in mind that Kit Carson was still a youth, not having
+reached his majority. He was of short, compact stature, no more than
+five feet, six inches tall, with light brown hair, gray eyes, large
+head, high forehead, broad shoulders, full chest, strong and possessing
+remarkable activity. Even at that early age, he had impressed the
+veteran hunters and trappers around him as one possessing such
+remarkable abilities, that, if his life was spared, he was certain to
+become a man of mark. If we should attempt to specify the particular
+excellencies in which he surpassed those around him, it would be said
+that while Carson was one of the most fearless men who lived, yet he
+possessed splendid judgment. He seemed to know instinctively what could
+be accomplished by himself and friends in positions of extreme peril,
+and he saw on the moment precisely how to do that which often was
+impossible to others.
+
+His knowledge of woodcraft and the peculiarities of the savage tribes
+around him was as perfect as it could be. He was a matchless hunter,
+and no man could handle a rifle with greater skill. The wilderness, the
+mountains, the Indians, the wild animals--these constituted the sphere
+in which nature intended Kit Carson should move and serve his fellow men
+as no one before or after him has done.
+
+Added to these extraordinary qualifications, was the crowning one of
+all--modesty. Alas, how often transcendent merit is made repelling by
+overweening conceit. Kit Carson would have given his life before he
+would have travelled through the eastern cities, with his long hair
+dangling about his shoulders, his clothing bristling with pistols and
+knives, while he strutted on the mimic stage as a representative of the
+untamed civilization of the great west.
+
+Carson was a superior hunter when a boy in Missouri, and the experience
+gained among the experienced hunters and trappers, soon caused him to
+become noted by those who had fought red men, trapped beaver and shot
+grizzly bears before he was born. And yet it could not have been that
+alone: it must have been his superior mental capacity which caused those
+heroes of a hundred perils to turn instinctively to him for counsel and
+guidance in situations of extreme peril. Among them all was no one with
+such masterful resources in that respect as he.
+
+While the trappers were encamped at this place, a messenger visited
+them from the Mission of San Rafael, with a request that they would help
+chastise a party of Indians, who, after committing some outrages at the
+Mission, had fled to an Indian village. When a demand was made for the
+surrender of the refugees, the villagers not only refused to give
+them up, but attacked the party and drove them off. Appreciating
+the importance of upholding their authority, the priests sent to the
+trappers for assistance in bringing the guilty ones and their friends to
+terms.
+
+As soon as the request was made known, Carson and eleven of his
+companions volunteered to help their visitors. Thus reinforced, the
+company from the Mission set out again for the Indian village.
+
+Nothing can attest more strongly the skill and bravery of Kit Carson,
+than the fact that he was at once selected to lead the party on its
+dangerous errand. While he was as modest as a woman and with a voice as
+gentle and persuasive, he could not be ignorant of his own capacities,
+and he assumed charge without any pretense of unfitness.
+
+It is easy to understand the great care required in this expedition,
+for the warriors in the village, having beaten off their assailants,
+naturally looked for their return with reinforcements, and, in order to
+insure success, it was necessary that the attack should be a surprise.
+
+Having brought his men quite close to the village unperceived, Kit gave
+the signal and the whole company swept through the place like a cyclone.
+There were a few minutes of terrific fighting, during which a score of
+warriors were killed, and then the entire village was captured. Carson
+as the leader of the assailants, demanded the surrender of the offenders
+against the Mission. Not daring to disobey such a summons, they were
+delivered up to the authorities, and Carson, seeing nothing more to
+do for his friends, returned with his companions to camp and resumed
+hunting and their preparations for cold weather.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+
+ The Trapper's Life--Indian Horse Thieves--Carson's Skilful Pursuit
+ and Surprise of the Savages--Arrival at Los Angeles--Trouble with the
+ Authorities--A Singular Escape.
+
+The trappers being in the heart of the Indian country, with hostile
+on every hand, were cautious in all their movements. When one of the
+grizzled hunters in the depths of the wilderness fired his gun at
+some deer, antelope or bear, he hastily reloaded his rifle, listening
+meanwhile for sounds of the stealthy footprints of his enemy. He knew
+not when the treacherous shot would be sent from behind the rock
+or clump of bushes, but he had learned long before, that, when he
+penetrated the western wilds and followed the calling of trapper, he
+took his life in his hands and he was ready to "go under," whenever the
+fate so decreed.
+
+The most flagrant crime on the frontier is horse stealing. He who shoots
+one of his fellow men has a chance of escaping punishment almost as good
+as that afforded in civilized communities, but if he steals a horse and
+is caught, his case is hopeless. It may be said that the value of the
+animal to the hunter or trapper is beyond all calculation, and, inasmuch
+as the red man is equally appreciative, Carson always warned his friends
+to be on the watch against the dusky thieves. Sentinels were on guard
+while others slept, but the very calamity against which they thus sought
+to protect themselves overtook them.
+
+One dark night a number of Indians stole by the sentinels and before
+their presence was discovered, drove off the major part of the horses.
+In the morning, when the alarming truth became known, the employer of
+the trappers asked Carson to take twelve of the men and do his utmost
+to recover those that were stolen. Carson assented at once, and, in his
+quiet, self possessed fashion, collected his comrades who were speedily
+in the saddle and galloping along the trail of the thieves.
+
+It may strike the reader that an offhand statement like the foregoing
+relates to a proceeding of no special difficulty or peril. A party of
+brave white men were pursuing a company of Indian horse thieves and the
+chances of escape and capture were about equal. Thus the matter presents
+itself to the ordinary spectator, whereas the truth was far different.
+
+In the first place, the savages, being as well mounted as their
+pursuers, were sure to maintain a swift pace, so long as they believed
+any danger threatened. They would keep a keen watch of the back trail
+and would be quick to detect the approach of enemies. If pressed hard,
+they would act as the Apaches and Comanches do, when they find the
+United States troops at their heels--break up in so many small parties
+that it is impossible to follow them.
+
+First of all, therefore, Carson had two achievements before him--and the
+accomplishment of either seemed to render the other impossible: he must
+travel at a faster rate than the thieves, and, at the same time keep
+them in ignorance of his pursuit. It is on such occasions that a man's
+woodcraft and knowledge of the country serve him so well. Many a time,
+during the career of Kit Carson, did he outwit the red men and white
+criminals, not by galloping along with his eye upon their footprints,
+but by reasoning out with unerring skill, the destination or refuge
+which the criminals had in mind. Having settled that all important
+question, he aimed at the same point and frequently reached it first.
+Thus it came about that often the fugitive, while hurrying along and
+glancing furtively behind him, suddenly found himself face to face with
+his pursuer, whose acquaintance with the country enabled him to find the
+shorter route.
+
+It took Carson only a few minutes to satisfy himself that the criminals
+were heading for the Sierra Nevada Mountains, but, inasmuch as they were
+following a direct course, he could only take their trail. Where there
+were so many animals in flight, it was impossible to hide their tracks
+and the thieves made no attempt to do so. They struck the horses into
+a sweeping gallop, which with a few interruptions they maintained until
+they were a hundred miles from the camp of the white men and among the
+fastnesses of the Sierras.
+
+Then it was the red men made a careful survey of the trail behind them.
+The black penetrating eyes scanned the country with a piercing keenness
+which it would seem shut out all possibility of concealment. Nowhere
+could they detect the faint smoke climbing toward the sky from among the
+trees nor could they gain sight of the line of horsemen winding around
+the rocks in the distance. Nothing resembling a human being was visible.
+Surely they were warranted in believing themselves perfectly secure.
+
+Such being their conclusion, they prepared for a great feast. Six of the
+stolen horses were killed and the red men became as ardent hipophagi as
+was the club of advanced Parisians a short time ago. The roasted meat
+tasted as fine to them as though it was the choicest slices from the
+bison or deer, and they ate and frolicked like so many children let
+loose for a holiday.
+
+But in the midst of their feast was heard a series of frightful yells
+and whoops. The appalled Indians had scarcely time to turn their eyes
+when a dozen horsemen, that seemed to have risen from the very ground,
+thundered down upon them. Carson and his men had overtaken the thieves
+and they now swept down upon them with resistless fury. The fight was
+as short as it was fierce. The red men fell on the right and left, and
+those who escaped the wrath of the trappers, scattered and ran as if
+a hundred bomb shells were exploding around them. Every horse stolen
+(except the six killed for the feast) were recovered and Carson took
+them back to camp without the loss of a man.
+
+The hunters stayed until early autumn, when their employer decided to go
+to New Mexico. The journey led for a great portion of the way through a
+country over which they had travelled, and which therefore was familiar
+to them. After halting a brief while at the Mission of San Fernando,
+they arrived at Los Angeles, which like the rest of the country as the
+reader knows, belonged to Mexico. As it was apparent that the horsemen
+were hunters and trappers, the authorities demanded their written
+license to pursue their calling in Mexican territory. Such was the law
+and the officials were warranted in making the demand, but it need not
+be said that the party were compelled to admit they had nothing of the
+kind in their possession.
+
+The authorities thereupon determined to arrest the hunters, but knowing
+their desperate nature, hesitated as to the safe means of doing so. They
+finally hit upon a rather ingenious, though unfair means of disarming
+the white men: they began giving them "fire water" to drink, refusing
+to accept pay therefor. Those who lead lives of hardship and peril are
+generally fond of such indulgence, and, though the trappers could not
+fail to understand the purpose of the Mexicans, and though they knew the
+disastrous consequences of giving away to temptation, they yielded and
+took in their mouths the enemy which stole away their brains.
+
+The employer became alarmed and saw that something must be done at once
+or everything would be lost. Carson had been too wise to fall into the
+snare, and he turned to him.
+
+"Take three of the soberest men," said he, "and the loose animals and
+camp equipage and push out of the place. I will join you as soon as I
+can, but you mustn't linger for me. If I fail to join you, hasten to
+New Mexico and make known that I and the rest of my men have been
+massacred."
+
+These instructions were definite and they showed the gravity of the
+situation. Carson did as directed, while the employer gave his attention
+to the rest of the men. It was high time that he did so, for they were
+fast succumbing to their appetites. Despite the indignant protests and
+efforts of the employer they would have undoubtedly fallen victims but
+for an unlooked for occurrence.
+
+One of the trappers who was so much under the influence of liquor as to
+become reckless, fired upon and slightly wounded a native of the place.
+The act threw the Mexicans into a panic of terror, and they fled
+from the presence of the dreaded Americans who seemed eager for any
+sanguinary deed.
+
+The employer was wise enough to take advantage of the occurrence and
+he succeeded, after much labor, in getting his half intoxicated men
+together and out of the place. The horses were forced to their utmost
+and the same night they overtook Carson and his anxious companions. All
+danger from that source was ended.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+
+ An Alarming Visit--Carson's Resources--On the Colorado and
+ Gila--Capturing a Herd of Horses and Mules--The Raiders--Turning the
+ Tables--Caching their Peltries--Return to Santa Fe--Carson Goes upon
+ a Second Trapping Expedition--Hunting with an Old Mountaineer--A Visit
+ from Crow Indians.
+
+A week or more later, the trappers again reached the Colorado River.
+They had traveled at a leisurely pace and once more they went into camp,
+where they were familiar with the country. Men leading such lives as
+they, were accustomed to all kinds of surprises, but it may be doubted
+whether the trappers were more amazed in all their existence than when
+five hundred Indian warriors made their appearance and with signs of
+friendship overran the camp before they could be prevented or checked.
+
+The hunters did not know what to make of the proceeding, and looked to
+Carson for advice. He had already discovered that the situation was one
+of the gravest danger. Despite the professions of friendship, Kit saw
+that each warrior had his weapons under his dress, where he hoped they
+were not noticed by the whites. Still worse, most of the hunters were
+absent visiting their traps, only Kit and a few of his companions being
+in camp. The occasion was where it was necessary to decide at once what
+to do and then to do it without flinching.
+
+Among the red men was one who spoke Spanish and to him Carson addressed
+himself:
+
+"You must leave the camp at once; if you don't do so without a minute's
+delay, we shall attack you and each of us is sure to kill one warrior if
+not more."
+
+These brave words accompanied by such determination of manner were in
+such contrast to the usual course of the cowardly Mexicans that the
+Indians were taken all aback. They could not suspect the earnestness of
+the short, sturdy framed leader, nor could they doubt that though the
+Indians would be sure to overwhelm the little band, yet they would
+have to pay dearly for the privilege. It took them but a few minutes
+to conclude the price was altogether too high and they drew off without
+making a hostile demonstration against the brave Carson and his men.
+
+The trappers worked their way down the Colorado until they arrived at
+tidewater, when they moved to the Gila, along which they trapped until
+they reached the mouth of the San Pedro. They were in sore need of
+horses with which to transport their furs and peltries, that had become
+numerous and bulky. While in this neighborhood, they discovered a large
+herd of horses and mules in the possession of a few Indians. According
+to the morality of the border this property was legitimate prey, but in
+point of fact when the trappers determined to take the animals from the
+aborigines, they became thieves and robbers. However, it is not to be
+hoped that a single member of the company felt the slightest twinge of
+conscience when he rode at full speed, yelling to the highest bent, and
+helped scatter the terrified red men to the winds. The entire herd fell
+into the hands of the whites, and, congratulating themselves on their
+good fortune, they kindled a huge fire and encamped for the night.
+
+Most of the men had lain down with the intention of sleeping until
+morning, and Kit sat looking in the fire, when his trained ear caught
+a peculiar sound. At first, it seemed to be the faint roll of distant
+thunder, but he knew it was not. He listened carefully and was able
+to tell the direction whence came the singular noise, but remained
+uncertain as to its cause. Then, as he had done many a time, he leaned
+over and pressed his ear to the solid earth. Immediately the rumbling
+became more distinct and he recognized what it meant: it was the tramp
+of numerous hoofs galloping forward.
+
+Carson and several of his men stole noiselessly out to reconnaissance
+and found a half dozen warriors hurrying along a drove of more than a
+hundred horses. They had been on a raid among the Mexican settlements in
+Sonora and were now returning home with their plunder.
+
+The temptation was one which Carson and his companions could not resist.
+They sent a volley from their rifles among the thieves, which threw them
+into such a panic that they dashed off at full speed without giving
+the least thought to their valuable property. The latter as a matter
+of course was taken charge of by the trappers, who were glad of the
+opportunity to chastise the cowardly marauders.
+
+Under the circumstances, however, the animals were of little value
+to the hunters, who had all they needed. It was beyond their power to
+return them to their owners, but the best were selected, several of the
+plumpest killed and cured, and the rest turned loose to go whither they
+chose.
+
+The trappers continued up the Gila until near the copper mines of New
+Mexico, where they found a party of white men trading with the Indians.
+The peltries were cached and placed in charge of their friends, while
+Carson and his companions continued on until they reached Santa Fe.
+There their employer bought a license to trade with the Indians who
+lived near the copper mines. Then they went back and procuring their
+furs, returned once more to Santa Fe, where they were sold for more than
+twenty thousand dollars. This being equitably divided among the hunters,
+furnished each a goodly sum. Like so many sailors just ashore from a
+long voyage, most of the trappers went on a prolonged carousal, which
+caused their money to melt like snow in the sun. When their pockets were
+empty, they had aching heads, weak frames and only the memory of their
+feverish pleasures.
+
+Kit Carson did not go through this trial unscathed. He drank and spreed
+with the rest, but he awoke to the folly and madness of his course
+sooner than they and the sad lesson learned at the time lasted him
+through life. The baneful habit was not fastened upon him, and he not
+only acquired the mastery over self, but was able more than once to
+save others from falling into the whirlpool which has swept unnumbered
+multitudes to wretchedness and death.
+
+Carson found little in the way of congenial employment until the fall of
+the year, when he joined a second trapping expedition. The first had won
+him such a reputation for sagacity, daring and skill, that his services
+were always in demand, and those who were forming such enterprises
+sought him out among the very first.
+
+The new party was in charge of an experienced mountaineer, who told
+Kit his intention was to trap along the principal streams of the Rocky
+Mountains. He was well acquainted with the region and was confident that
+the expedition would not only be enjoyable and thrilling in the highest
+degree, but would prove profitable to all.
+
+The party travelled northward until they reached the Platte River where
+the business began. They moved from stream to stream, as necessity
+demanded, shooting such game as they needed, exchanging shots with the
+watchful red men, who killed four of the trappers while hunting bison,
+and steadily adding to their stock of furs until the close of the season
+in the spring of 1831. Learning that an old mountaineer, named Captain
+Gaunt, had spent the winter at Laramie River and was then at New Park,
+Kit Carson and four of his friends set out to join him. It was a long
+and perilous journey, but they made it in safety and the Captain gave
+them glad welcome. They hunted together for many months following until
+the Captain went to Taos to sell his peltries. On his return, operations
+were resumed until the weather became so cold they were forced into
+winter quarters.
+
+The winter proved very severe. The snow was so deep that only by cutting
+down numerous cottonwoods and using the bark and twigs for fodder were
+the animals saved from starvation. Fortunately, they had laid in a
+good stock of bison meat so that the trappers themselves underwent no
+suffering for food. In fact, they found little to do except to pass the
+time in idleness. With abundant food, plenty of tobacco and the means
+of engaging in certain games, they whiled away the long winter days and
+evenings until the signs of spring appeared.
+
+But while the winds were moaning around their hut, in which they made
+their home, and the snow rattled like fine sand against the logs, they
+were taught again that no weather is severe enough to keep the wily red
+man within his wigwam. A party of Crow Indians discovered the camp of
+the trappers and one tempestuous night made them a stealthy visit. They
+departed during the darkness, and, when they went away, took with them
+nine of the very best horses of the hunters--a loss too serious to be
+borne without using every recourse to prevent it.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+
+ Kit Carson's Decision--A Hot Pursuit an and Unexpected Discovery--Weary
+ Waiting--A Snow Balling Party--A Daring Attack--Brilliant Exploit.
+
+Instinctively every one turned to Carson to learn what he had to advise
+and yet each was certain what he would say.
+
+"It'll never do, boys, to let them steal our horses in that style,"
+he remarked in his quiet fashion, compressing his lips and shaking his
+head, while his eyes flashed with a dangerous light.
+
+All knew what his words and manner meant, and in a twinkling the
+thirteen men were in their saddles, and, with their gallant leader at
+their head, galloped forth off in pursuit.
+
+It would be supposed where the ground was covered with snow to such a
+depth, that it was the easiest matter imaginable to follow the trail,
+and yet Kit and his companions found it one of the most difficult tasks
+they had ever undertaken. Hundreds of bison had repeatedly crossed the
+tracks since they were made and less experienced eyes than those of the
+trappers would have given over the search in despair.
+
+But no one thought of turning back, and the pursuit was pushed
+unflaggingly for fully forty miles. Not the first glimpse had been
+obtained of the Indians, and the horses that had been pushed so hard
+finally gave out. They were in poor condition, and, when the company
+came to a halt, showed such exhaustion that it was evident they could
+not be forced much further. It was decided, therefore, to go into camp.
+Accordingly, they turned the heads of their panting animals toward a
+piece of woods a short distance away.
+
+Before the shelter was reached, the trappers were astonished to observe
+a column of smoke rising above the trees. They looked in each others'
+faces with a smile of gratification: inasmuch as the trail led into the
+grove and it was evident a camp fire was burning there, it followed
+that they were close to the thieves whom they had followed such a long
+distance.
+
+The discovery infused new warmth into the blood of the hunters, who were
+fairly atremble with eagerness to attack the unsuspecting Indians.
+
+But all were too experienced in the ways of the wilderness to allow
+their impatience to betray them into any indiscretion. They deemed
+it necessary their assault should be a surprise and they, therefore,
+withdrew to a secluded place in the woods and waited for night.
+
+This was trying to a painful degree. The weather which had been bitterly
+cold during the day, grew still colder, until the animals shivered as if
+with the ague. They were carefully tied where the trees partly sheltered
+them from the cutting wind and the hunters made sure their arms were
+ready. Then, when the sun went down and darkness crept over the snowy
+landscape, the men moved around so as to approach the camp from the
+direction opposite to that from which the Indians would naturally look
+for pursuit.
+
+When close enough to catch sight of the flames among the trees, the
+hunters sank on their knees and crept noiselessly forward until able to
+gain a full view of the dusky thieves. They were surprised at what they
+saw. The savages had thrown some logs and stones together so as to make
+a couple of rude forts and had divided themselves into two parties. It
+was characteristic of them that they were holding a dance and feast in
+honor of the brilliant style in which they had outwitted the trappers
+forty miles away.
+
+The scene was quite interesting, especially when our friends plainly
+saw their stolen animals tied near one of the forts. The sight of their
+property was anything but soothing to the wrathful trappers, who were
+resolved not to go back to their own camp without taking the horses
+along.
+
+But the Crows were strong in numbers, well armed and ready to fight on
+the briefest notice. It would have been an act of the greatest rashness
+to charge upon their camp, while they were excited to an unusual degree
+by the rejoicing in which all took a hilarious part. The whites decided
+to wait several hours longer until most of their enemies would be
+unconscious in slumber.
+
+All this time the weather was growing colder, and, toughened as the
+trappers had become by years of exposure, they suffered greatly. They
+dare not move about to keep up the circulation of their blood, for the
+slightest noise was liable to attract the suspicion of some of the Crows
+who might be prowling through the grove. More than once Carson feared
+his limbs were freezing, but he held out like the genuine hero he was,
+and his companions were all worthy of him.
+
+At last the dance was over and the tired warriors wrapped their blankets
+around their forms and stretched out to rest. Their manner showed they
+had no thought that a foe was anywhere in the neighborhood. Although
+such men sleep lightly, they do not remain long awake when courting
+sleep, and in a brief while all were unconscious except the sentinels
+on duty. Even they were so confident that nothing threatened, that they
+became less vigilant than usual.
+
+"Sh! now is the time," whispered the youthful leader. They had decided
+long before upon their plan of action, so that no time was now lost in
+consultation. Kit and five of his men began slowly creeping toward their
+horses. This was anything but a pleasant occupation, for the snow, it
+will be remembered, was deep on the ground; but such veterans cared
+nothing for a trifle like that, and they speedily reached their animals.
+
+Such an attempt is always a dangerous one, for the horse of the Indian
+or white hunter often proves his most skilful sentinel. He is able to
+detect the stealthy approach of a scout, long before the straining ear
+of his master can catch the slightest sound. If the beasts should become
+frightened by the shadowy figures crawling over the snow, they would be
+likely to alarm the camp; but Carson and his companions managed it so
+well that there was not a single neigh or stamp of a hoof.
+
+Silently rising to their feet, they cut the halters which held the
+horses fast, and then, withdrawing a slight distance, began throwing
+snowballs at them. These feathery missiles fell among and struck against
+them, until, to escape the mimic bombardment they moved out the wood
+altogether, where they were taken charge by the others who were waiting.
+All this was accomplished without attracting the attention of a single
+Indian.
+
+Having met with such success, common prudence and sense suggested that
+the trappers should make all haste to their own comfortable quarters, so
+many long miles away; but they had scarcely joined each other when they
+fell into an earnest discussion as to what the next step should be.
+
+Some were in favor of withdrawing with the least possible delay, but
+Kit Carson and a couple of daring spirits were bent on going back and
+punishing the thieves who had given them so much trouble. As they could
+not be argued out of their purpose, the others, as a matter of course,
+agreed to give them their aid.
+
+Three of the trappers were sent to take the recaptured animals to where
+the saddle horses were secured while the others advanced directly upon
+the Indian camp. They moved cautiously as was their custom and were
+almost upon the Crows, when one of their dogs gave notice of danger by a
+vigorous barking. On the instant, the warriors leaped to their feet
+and the fight opened. So many of the Indians were shot down and the
+advantage was so strongly against them, that the survivors hastily
+ran into the nearest fort, from which they returned the fire of their
+assailants. The latter, however, had stationed themselves behind trees,
+where they were safe against the whistling bullets, and in their attack
+they threw away very few shots indeed.
+
+It began growing light in the east, and, as soon as the Crows
+discovered how few composed the besieging force, they in turn became
+the assailants, and rushed out of their fort with their frightful war
+whoops, but they were met by such a destructive fire that they scurried
+back again.
+
+The second attack of the savages was so furious that the trappers were
+forced to fall back, but the reserve, as it may be called, speedily
+joined them, and once more drove the Indians into their fort. Several
+of the whites had been wounded though not dangerously, and both parties
+having had enough of fighting, the battle ended.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+
+ The British and American Trapper--Hunting on the Laramie--The
+ Deserters--The Vain Pursuit--Arrival of Friends--The Return Journey--The
+ Night Alarm--The Attack Upon the Camp--Pursuit and Recovery of Horses.
+
+A half century ago the vast region beyond the Rocky Mountains was
+comparatively unknown and unexplored. Its general features of course
+were understood, but the interior was like the central portion of
+Australia or Africa. Clarke and Lewis made their famous expedition to
+Oregon during the early days of the century, and helped to turn general
+attention in that direction. Its growth and development since then is
+one of the wonders of the age.
+
+But there was one class (if the word may be used), who never hesitated
+to penetrate the wildest and most dangerous recesses of the far West
+and Northwest: those were the hunters and trappers. As we have already
+stated, the employees of the venerable and all embracing Hudson Bay
+Company ranged over British America and through Oregon, to which vast
+territory they possessed the clear legal right, besides which they and
+the trappers of the American Fur Company frequently trespassed on each
+others reserves, and not infrequently came in bloody collision with each
+other.
+
+Far to the northward, the Indian drove his birch canoe across the silent
+Athabasca and Great Bear Lakes, on his way with his peltries to the
+distant factory or post of the Company; along the frozen shores of the
+lone Mackenzie (the only American river flowing into the Arctic Ocean),
+the trapper glided on his snow shoes, or with his sturdy dogs and
+sleigh, fought his way over the snowy wastes of Prince Rupert's Land;
+the brigades in their boats rounded the curves of the Saskatchewan,
+keeping time with their paddles to their own cheery songs; their camp
+fires were kindled in the land of the Assiniboine and they set their
+traps in the wildest recesses of the Rocky Mountains where the whirling
+snow storms almost carried them off their feet; but north of the
+dividing line, the hunters had little if anything to fear from the red
+men. Though they encountered in the loneliest and most desolate distant
+regions, they generally met and separated as friends. Among the perils
+of the trapper's life in British America was not reckoned that from the
+hostile natives.
+
+It was far different within our own territory. Those who left our
+frontier States and pushed westward, and those who penetrated northward
+and eastward from the Mexican country, knew they were invading the
+hunting grounds of the fiercest Indians on the American continent. We
+have already told enough to show the intense hostility of the red men;
+between them and the hunters and trappers raged a war that never ceased
+or slackened, except when policy held it for a time in check.
+
+The little group of horsemen, who rode out from Independence or
+Westport, or who took steamer at St. Louis up the Missouri, often came
+back with several of their number missing. Up among the mountains, they
+had gone out to visit their traps and had never come back to camp. The
+lurking Blackfoot, or Sioux, or Crow, had aimed all too well, and, as
+he bounded whooping away, he swung aloft the scalp of his victim whose
+trapping days were ended forever.
+
+After recovering their horses from the band of Crows, Carson and his
+companions returned to camp, where they remained until spring, when they
+cached their furs and made their way to the Laramie River on another
+hunting expedition. While thus employed, a couple of the men deserted
+taking several of the best animals. Kit Carson and a single companion
+were sent in pursuit, the rascals having a good day's start. A desperate
+fight was sure to follow a meeting between the parties, for Carson would
+never forgive such treachery, and the deserters were not the ones to
+permit themselves to be despoiled of their booty without doing their
+utmost to prevent it.
+
+It was suspected that they were on their way to the place where the
+beaver had been cached; and disregarding the trail, therefore Carson
+made all haste thither. It need not be said that he lost no time on the
+road, but when he reached their old camp, he found the deserters had
+preceded him. They had stolen several thousand dollars worth of furs and
+departed.
+
+Carson was more anxious than ever to overtake the scoundrels. He and his
+companion made diligent search, but failed utterly to find them. They
+were never seen or heard of again, and Carson was convinced they had
+fallen victims to the Indians who in turn made off with the stolen
+peltries.
+
+It will be borne in mind that Kit and his friend were several hundred
+miles from the main body of hunters, and in one of the most dangerous
+countries they had ever visited. So dangerous, indeed, did they consider
+an attempt to return to them, that they decided not to make it, but to
+stay in the old camp. Inasmuch as it would be impossible to keep their
+presence from the knowledge of the Indians, they threw up some rude
+fortifications and never relaxed their vigilance. When Carson wrapped
+his blanket around him, and lay down to rest, he knew his companion was
+on guard and would not slumber. It was the same with his friend, their
+watchfulness undoubtedly preventing the attack which scarcely could have
+failed to be effectual.
+
+It was needful now and then that one of them should venture out to
+procure game, but that was so plentiful that he was never compelled to
+go far, and he used such extreme care that he was not even so much as
+fired upon.
+
+Thus the time passed, until at the end of several weeks, the hunters
+were surprised and delighted by the arrival of more than a dozen men on
+their way with a complete outfit to join the main body. Carson and his
+friend were glad enough to go with them and the long journey was begun.
+They had not gone far, when they exchanged shots with hostiles and there
+were almost daily skirmishes with them. By sunset they had travelled a
+long distance, and went into camp, feeling certain that though Indians
+had not shown themselves, they were in the vicinity. To prevent a
+stampede of their animals, the long ropes around their necks were
+fastened to stakes driven deep into the earth. This arrangement allowed
+them to graze over sufficient ground and opposed an almost insuperable
+obstacle to the success of the dusky thieves prowling around.
+
+It was yet early in the evening when one of the dogs belonging to the
+camp began barking. A score of causes might have caused this but Carson
+believed the incitement in that instance was the one most dreaded.
+Several men were added to the guard and the rest lay down, too uneasy to
+gain much slumber, however.
+
+The trappers were right in their suspicion that savages were near but
+they could not have failed to note what precautions had been taken by
+the whites against surprise and they withdrew without molesting them.
+The party were in a beaver country, and Carson and three of his men went
+up the stream some distance to learn whether it was worth their while to
+set the traps.
+
+They had not been gone long when a party of Indians, who were probably
+awaiting such an opportunity, charged upon the camp and drove off all
+the loose horses. Four of the hunters instantly saddled the swiftest
+of those remaining and started in hot pursuit. So hot indeed was the
+pursuit that they speedily came up with the marauders and opened a
+running fight. One of the hunters was badly wounded, while a warrior
+was shot from his horse pitching headlong to the earth with a screech
+of agony. The remaining ones were pressed so hard that they were glad
+enough to abandon the property which came back to the rightful owners,
+probably before an animal was able to comprehend what had taken place.
+
+The promptness and daring of the hunters had prevented a serious loss,
+and though one of their number was severely hurt, his wound was not
+mortal. It may be said that he suffered much but fully recovered in
+time. Men with such iron constitutions and rugged frames rallied from
+injuries that would have swept off those accustomed to less stirring
+lives.
+
+Having righted matters, so far as possible, the trappers picketed their
+horses and awaited the return of Carson and his companions. They were
+much disturbed by fears for their safety, as in truth they had good
+cause to be.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+
+ An Unexpected Meeting--The Ambush--A Daring and Perilous Ride--Return to
+ Camp--Disappointments--The Beaver.
+
+Meanwhile the Indians made it exceedingly lively for Kit Carson and his
+three companions.
+
+The latter had heard so much of the abundance of beavers in a
+certain section that they determined to visit it and make a thorough
+exploration. To do this, it was necessary to ride over a lofty Rocky
+Mountain peak or take many hours to pass around it. Very naturally they
+concluded to "cut across lots," confident of their ability to take care
+of themselves, no matter what danger threatened.
+
+The ascent proved very exhausting to men and animals, for the trappers
+did not compel the weary beasts to bear them up the steep slope where it
+tired them to force their own way. They rested many times, but finally
+accomplished the ascent and passed over into the valley beyond. There,
+disappointment awaited them. The most careful search failed to show the
+first sign of a beaver and they had their labor for their pains. The
+toil of climbing the mountain peak was so severe that the hunters
+concluded to take the longer route home. Their steeds had been pushed so
+hard, that they were permitted to set their own pace on the return.
+This naturally enough was a deliberate walk, while their riders talked,
+laughed, jested and occasionally made some remark on the magnificent
+scenery by which they were surrounded. There was no call for haste, and
+they knew nothing of what had taken place in camp after their departure;
+otherwise, they might have felt more impatience to rejoin their friends.
+
+All at once, the hunters descried four Indian warriors in the path in
+front. They were splendidly mounted, their hair ornamented with stained
+eagle feathers, their ugly countenances daubed with yellow, black and
+crimson paint, and they were fully armed. Their appearance showed they
+were on the war path.
+
+Such undoubtedly being the case, a sight of the braves was a challenge
+to the hunters who accepted it without a second's hesitation.
+
+Pausing not a moment to consult on their plan of action, Kit and his
+companions spurred their horses to a dead run, with the purpose of
+bringing them within range of their rifles, but the steeds of the dusky
+foes were fleet of foot and they sped away like the wind.
+
+The pursuit was a furious one, until the flying fugitives shot by a
+hill, when more than fifty warriors similarly mounted and accoutred,
+dashed out to intercept the enthusiastic hunters. Just then it dawned
+upon Kit and his companions that the whole proceeding was a trap
+arranged by the Indians into which he and his friends had dashed at
+headlong speed.
+
+It was in such crises that Kit Carson displayed his marvelous resources
+and lightning-like perception of the best course to adopt. The discovery
+of the ambush would have thrown almost any company of men, no matter
+how brave into a panic, or at least into temporary confusion which would
+have been equally disastrous. Most probably they would have reined up or
+wheeled about and fled in the opposite direction. The whole band would
+have dashed in pursuit and the running fight between four men and more
+than twelve times their number, every one of whom it is fair to presume
+was thoroughly familiar with the country, could have resulted in but one
+way. Skilled and daring as were Carson and his comrades, they could
+not accomplish the impossible, as they would have had to do in order to
+escape the yelling band behind them.
+
+Kit was slightly in advance of the others, and he did not check his
+animal in the least. On the contrary, he urged him to his utmost, and
+the four sped straight ahead on a dead run, seemingly as if they meant
+to charge the entire war party.
+
+Such, however, was not their intention: they shied off as much as they
+could, and, throwing themselves forward and over the side of their
+horses, ran the terrible gauntlet. No one of the trappers fired a shot,
+for if dismounted by the bullets of their enemies, each wished to have
+his loaded rifle in hand, with which to make his last defense.
+
+The very audacity of the movement amazed the Indians. By the time they
+comprehended what the white men were doing, they were thundering in
+front of them. Then the warriors opened fire, and the bullets whistled
+about the horses and riders, who kept their steeds to the highest
+bent and finally passed beyond danger--their escape one of the most
+extraordinary on record.
+
+The Indians did not pursue the hunters, two of whom had been struck by
+their bullets, and Carson and his friends drew their horses down to
+a more moderate pace. The great scout admitted that he was never more
+utterly deceived and entrapped by the red man in all his life. But
+he saw in the occurrence a deeper significance than appeared on the
+surface. The ambush into which he and his friends had been led was only
+a part of the campaign against the entire party, who, weakened by the
+absence of Carson and his companions were likely to fall victims to such
+a large band of warriors. Trembling with fear for their comrades, they
+again forced their animals to a high speed and lost no time in making
+their way back to camp. They found everything in good shape, much to
+their relief, and were not at all surprised to learn of the visit
+that had been made by the savages during the absence of Kit and his
+companions.
+
+The wounds of the two trappers who were shot while running the fiery
+gauntlet, were found to be of such a serious nature that the party had
+not gone far when they were obliged to go into camp again. One of them
+especially, was in such a bad way that it was found necessary to carry
+him on a litter until the main camp was reached. There he was allowed to
+rest and everything possible was done to make him comfortable. When he
+had fully recovered, the entire company headed for Old Park, once
+famous on account of the immense numbers of beavers found there.
+Disappointment, however, awaited them, for other trappers had preceded
+them, and made such thorough work that it was useless for the last
+arrivals to unload and set their traps.
+
+The party visited other sections but in every instance they appeared
+to be "a day too late for the fair;" the beaver runs had been worked so
+thoroughly by others that it was useless for them to expect success.
+
+The beaver, as the reader probably knows, aside from its great value
+in producing fur and perfume, possesses a most wonderful instinct. They
+live in communities and prefer to build their houses by small clear
+rivers and creeks or close to springs. Sometimes they are found on the
+banks of lakes.
+
+The dams which they construct with the skill of a professional civil
+engineer, are built for the purpose of making sure of a full supply of
+water at all times and seasons. These dams are composed of stones,
+mud and tree branches, the base being ten or twelve feet in thickness
+sloping gradually upward to the summit.
+
+In building their dams, the beaver does not thrust the ends of the
+stakes into the bed of the river, but lays them down horizontally,
+holding them in place by piling mud and stones upon them. The logs which
+compose the dams are mostly from six to eight inches in diameter, though
+some have been found nearly two feet through. The enormous number of
+such logs used may be imagined perhaps, when the ponderous character of
+the dams is remembered, and when it is stated that some of them are more
+than an eighth of a mile wide. Every log, after being gnawed off the
+proper length, is stripped of its bark which is stored away for use as
+food during the winter.
+
+The lodges of the beavers are composed principally of mud, moss and
+branches, circular in shape, the space within being seven feet in width
+and about half as high. The walls are so thick that on the outside the
+corresponding dimensions are nearly three times as great as within. The
+roof is finished off with a thick layer of mud, laid on with wonderful
+smoothness and renewed every year. The severe frosts of winter freeze
+the lodge into such a solid structure that the beaver is safe against
+the wolverine, which is unable to break through the wall, resembling the
+adobe structures found in Mexico and the Southwest. Even the trapper who
+attempts to demolish one of the structures finds it tiresome labor, even
+with the help of iron implements.
+
+The beavers excavate a ditch around their lodges too deep to be frozen.
+Into this opens all their dwellings, the door being far below the
+surface, so that free ingress and egress are secured.
+
+The half dozen beavers occupying a lodge arrange their beds against the
+wall, each separate from the other, while the centre of the chamber is
+unoccupied. During summer they secure their stock of food by gnawing
+down hundreds of trees, the trunks or limbs of which are sunk and
+fastened in some peculiar manner to the bottom of the stream. During the
+winter when the beaver feels hungry, he dives down, brings up one of the
+logs, drags it to a suitable spot and nibbles off the bark.
+
+It is impossible fully to understand how this remarkable animal does its
+work, for as it never toils in the day time, it is out of the power of
+any one to watch its method.
+
+The peculiar odoriferous substance, secreted in two glandular sacs near
+the root of the tail, is "castoreum," more generally known as "bark
+stone" among the trappers. The odor is powerful and is so attractive to
+the animals themselves, that the trapper has only to smear some of it
+near the trap which is hidden under water. Any beaver which catches the
+scent, is sure to hasten to the spot and is almost certain to be caught
+in the trap.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+
+ Carson and two Companions set out on a Trapping Expedition of Their
+ Own--They Meet With Great Success--Is Engaged by Captain Lee--Carson's
+ Pursuit of an Indian Thief.
+
+Kit Carson finally grew tired of wandering over the country without
+gaining sight of a beaver. He proposed to two of his companions that
+they start on a private expedition of their own. They were as disgusted
+as he and eagerly agreed to the proposition.
+
+The employers of the men commended the enterprise of the little company
+and gave them their best wishes. Cordial farewells were exchanged all
+around, and Kit and his comrades left the camp on their perilous errand.
+
+On this occasion, as on innumerable other ones, Carson showed most
+excellent judgment. His scheme was to keep entirely to the streams never
+once venturing upon the plains. Several advantages were likely to
+flow from this course. During the summer season the mountain Indians
+generally placed their women and children in charge of the old men and
+a few warriors and came down from their retreats to engage in hunting
+bison or in marching on the war path. Occasionally they are at peace
+with the Indians of the plains, which was a bad thing for the Mexican
+settlements, for they left a track of desolation among them.
+
+Few of the trappers ventured far into the mountains, where game was
+abundant, so that Carson was confident of finding plenty of beavers.
+In this he was not mistaken. The fur bearing animals seemed to be
+overrunning the country, while the Indians acted not only as if unaware
+of the fact but as if entirely ignorant of the little party of
+visitors, who, making hay while the sun shines, were not long in finding
+themselves with as large a supply as they could carry home.
+
+This was the ordeal more to be dreaded than all the others. While on
+their way to the beaver runs, they had nothing to do beyond taking
+care of themselves; but now their valuable peltries were liable to be
+captured by the Indians, who could compel their abandonment by pressing
+the owners hard.
+
+But extreme and altogether unexpected good fortune attended them, and
+they reached Taos, without receiving a scratch or losing a fur. They
+found on arriving at that quaint town, that there was great demand for
+peltries and prices were correspondingly high. They sold out their stock
+for a very liberal price, and Kit's friend, despite his advice, went
+on a carousal which soon squandered all their hard earned wages. Kit
+himself, however, had not lost the lesson he learned under somewhat
+similar circumstances, and he laid away his funds, against the
+proverbial rainy day.
+
+By this time the character of Carson was fairly formed. He was resolute,
+self reliant, sober, thoughtful, cool headed, wonderfully quick to grasp
+all the points of a situation, chivalrous, agile as a panther, a perfect
+master of woodcraft, and withal, charmingly modest.
+
+While Carson was in Taos, waiting for some favorable opening to present
+itself, he met Captain Lee, formerly of the United States Army, but who
+was then a member of the firm of Bent and St. Vrain, engaged for so
+many years in furnishing supplies to those who visited the mountains and
+plains. Captain Lee at that time was thus employed and knowing the value
+of a man like Carson, he made him so liberal an offer that he accepted
+it on the spot.
+
+In the Autumn of 1832, with a train of mules loaded with such goods as
+were needed by trappers, Captain Lee, Carson and a number of men started
+northward to find their purchasers. They followed the well worn mule
+path leading from New Mexico to California and which had been known for
+years as the "Old Spanish Trail."
+
+They reached White River without mishap, and made their way down it
+until Green River was forded, when they struck across the country to
+Winty River, where they came upon a party of twenty hunters, who were
+engaged in trading and trapping as opportunity offered. They affiliated
+at once, for there is something in the presence of a common danger which
+draws men closely together.
+
+The weather became very cold and snow began to fall. It was decided,
+therefore, to go into winter quarters near the mouth of Winty River.
+There they erected skin lodges, such as are used by many tribes of
+American Indians, and were content to wait the coming of spring.
+
+The skill and address of Carson seemed to create a call for his
+services, no matter where he happened to be, and it was not long before
+he became involved in a most remarkable adventure.
+
+Among the employees of the other party, was a shrewd civilized Indian,
+who was held in high regard by the whites on account of his native
+keenness, and who stood well in the confidence of his employer; but one
+day he disappeared, simultaneously with several of the very best
+horses. The circumstances were such that there could be no doubt the two
+occurrences were inseparably connected.
+
+The loss was too serious to be borne, and the angered leader of the
+other company (though he had not the least claim upon young Carson),
+appealed to him to help him to recover his property. Carson said he was
+perfectly willing, provided Captain Lee would give his consent, and as
+the Captain was more willing to help his friend, he directed Carson to
+do as he saw fit.
+
+The matchless hunter made sure his weapons were in the best order, and,
+mounting one of the fleetest horses in camp, he waved a merry farewell
+to his friends and galloped off. He had not ridden far when he turned
+off toward an Indian village, whose people were on friendly terms with
+the hunters, and, riding directly among the red men, whose lingo he
+understood, he asked for one of their bravest warriors to join him
+in hunting down a California Indian that had run off with their best
+horses.
+
+Such a request coming from any other hunter would have received little
+notice; but those dusky barbarians not only knew Carson by name, but
+looked upon him as the greatest white warrior they had ever seen. He
+could have secured a score of braves had he wanted them, but he desired
+only one--a sinewy, daring fellow whom he knew could be relied on in any
+emergency. This Indian required no more time than Carson himself to make
+ready, and, shortly after Kit's arrival in the village, he rode forth
+again with his faithful friend at his elbow.
+
+It was impossible for the thief to conceal the trail of the stolen
+horses and he made no attempt to do so. A slight examination showed the
+pursuers that it led down the Green River, the general course being such
+that Carson was confident the thief was making for California--a long
+distance away.
+
+As the fugitive was well mounted and all his horses were fleet, and as
+he must have been quite certain he would be pursued, he lost no time on
+the road. The trail showed he was going at a full gallop, and, under the
+most favorable circumstances, the chase was sure to be a long one.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX
+
+
+ A Hot Pursuit--An Unexpected Calamity--Carson Continues the Chase
+ Alone--The Result.
+
+Everything now depended on speed. Not only was the dusky thief pushing
+his animals to the utmost, but Kit Carson knew he would give them little
+rest night or day. He was familiar with the route to California and the
+pursuit would be no child's play.
+
+There could be no doubt, however, of the destination of the redskin, and
+Carson and his brave warrior were equally persistent with their horses.
+The ground flew beneath their hoofs. Across the stretch of prairie,
+along the bank of the rushing streams, around the rocks, over mountains,
+through torrents, they forced their way, with no thought of turning back
+or checking the speed of their animals. Occasionally the bright eyes of
+the pursuers glanced at the ground in front, when the displaced gravel
+or the indentation in the soft earth showed they had not lost the trail.
+
+In this headlong fashion the friends galloped forward until they had
+placed a full hundred miles behind them. They were a long distance from
+home and camp, but in spite of the speed of the fugitive, Carson was
+confident they had gained considerably upon him. If everything went
+well, they ought to catch sight of him on the morrow. At this juncture,
+when the prospect was so encouraging, an unlooked for calamity occurred.
+
+Carson's steed stood the great strain admirably, but the one bestrode
+by the Indian succumbed. He suddenly slackened his pace, staggered and
+trembled so violently, that, when the warrior leaped from his back, he
+saw he was fearfully ill. If he did not die, he would not recover for
+hours and even then could not be forced hard.
+
+Carson contemplated the situation with dismay. He had not counted on
+anything like this, and the help of the Indian was beyond all price
+to him. He was unusually strong, active and experienced, and would not
+hesitate to attack any person single handed.
+
+Seeing the condition of the exhausted steed, Kit proposed to his dusky
+companion that he should abandon him and continue the pursuit on foot,
+but the brave shook his head. He was equal to the exploit of running ten
+or twenty miles at a high pace, but a great deal more was likely to
+be required and he needed all his powers when the shock of the battle
+should come. He not only refused to continue the chase, but, knowing
+the character of the thief, tried to dissuade Carson from going further.
+They had certainly done all that could be asked of them and no one could
+find fault if, in the face of such difficulty, they should withdraw and
+return to their friends.
+
+"No," said Carson, "I have set out to recover those horses and nothing
+shall turn me back. I am sorry to lose you, but it can't be helped; so
+good bye and good luck attend you."
+
+And putting spurs to his steed, he dashed over the trail with compressed
+lips and flashing eye, determined on running down the fugitive if he had
+to follow him to the bank of the Pacific itself. This single act of the
+famous mountaineer shows his character in its true light.
+
+In the first place, it must be remembered that Kit Carson was a man
+of slight figure and was never noted for his strength. Many of his
+companions were much more powerful, though none was so quick and active
+in his movements. His wonderful success lay in his coolness, agility,
+skill and bravery, which never "overleaped itself." As we have stated,
+he was below the medium stature, and never could have attained a tithe
+of his renown, had his muscular strength formed a necessary part of his
+requirements.
+
+On the other hand, the Indian thief whom he was pursuing, was
+exceptionally powerful, athletic and one of the most desperate men on
+the whole frontier. He cared nothing for Carson, nor for any single
+member of the company he had left. He would expect pursuit and would be
+on the watch for it. Whenever he caught sight of those who were seeking
+him, he would not abandon the horses and flee. Far from it: he would
+stand his ground, and if his booty should be wrested from him the men
+who did it would be compelled to the fiercest kind of fight. He would
+not run from the attack of two or three persons: much less from one of
+the most insignificant men in the entire company.
+
+The course of Carson illustrated another marked feature of his
+character--that of loyalty to his friends and resolution in carrying
+through any task he undertook. Where scarcely one man in a multitude
+would have pushed forward, he advanced without hesitation. He
+deliberately resolved to attack a fierce criminal who was as fully armed
+as he, as daring and perfect in his knowledge of woodcraft, and much his
+superior in strength.
+
+Carson had proven the mettle of his steed, and he now showed him no
+mercy. The trail indicated he was gaining rapidly and he was anxious to
+force matters to an issue before night. Among the horses the Indian was
+running off were one or two whose endurance was less than the others.
+Their tardiness moderated the pace of the rest, and thus gave Kit a
+chance of lessening the distance between him and the fugitive.
+
+At the end of the ten miles he scanned the ground in front, but nothing
+was seen of the thief or his horses; but the hoof prints were fresh and
+the scout knew he was closer to him than at any time since the chase
+began. The flanks of his steed shone with perspiration and froth, but
+it would not do to lag now. The lips were compressed and the gray eye
+flashed fire as before.
+
+Ten more miles were speedily thrown behind him, and he knew he was not
+far from the dusky desperado, who doubtless was continually glancing
+backward in quest of pursuers; but the keen vision which swept around
+every portion of the visible horizon, discovered no sign of the thief.
+
+Carson anticipated some attempt on the part of the fugitive to confuse
+pursuit and he, therefore, watched the hoof prints more closely than
+ever. The eagle eye continually glanced from the ground to the country
+in front, and then to the right and left. Nothing escaped his vision,
+but when his foamy steed had thundered over another ten miles the
+fugitive was still beyond sight.
+
+"He can't be far off," was the thought of Carson, "I'm bound to overtake
+him before long."
+
+At that moment, he caught sight of the Indian galloping leisurely
+forward, amid the stolen horses. The cunning savage, as the scout had
+suspected, was constantly on the alert, and detected Carson the same
+moment that he himself was discovered. Quick as a flash, he leaped from
+the back of his horses and started on a swift run for a clump of trees
+between him and his pursuer. The latter understood his purpose on the
+instant. If the Indian could secure the shelter of the grove, he would
+have his enemy at his mercy; for not only would he be able to protect
+his body, while loading and firing, but Carson himself, being in an open
+space, would be without the slightest protection against his deadly aim.
+
+Carson cocked his rifle and driving his spurs into the flanks of his
+high spirited steed, charged at full speed for the same shelter. Whoever
+should reach it first would be the master.
+
+The Indian had much less distance to run, and was as fleet of foot as
+a deer. He bounded forward with such tremendous strides, that while the
+horseman was still some distance away, he plunged in among the trees;
+but for the last few seconds the foes had approached each other at a
+terrific pace, a result that was not only inevitable, but desirable, to
+the pursuer.
+
+The very second the savage arrived on the margin of the grove, he made a
+leap for the nearest tree from behind which he meant to shoot his enemy;
+but in the very act of doing so, he was smitten by his bullet. Without
+checking his animal in the slightest, Carson had aimed and fired.
+
+The death screech of the savage rang out, as he leaped in the air and
+tumbled prostrate to the earth, killed by the shot that was unerring in
+its accuracy. The Indian himself was so near firing his gun, that his
+piece was also discharged, the ball whizzing harmlessly above the head
+of his pursuer. A couple of seconds delay on the part of Carson must
+have proved fatal to him, for the savage was a good marksman, and was
+standing still, with such a brief space intervening, that he could not
+have missed. It is hard to conceive of any escape more narrow than that
+of the daring mountaineer.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+
+ Carson Returns with the Recovered Property--Journey to Snake
+ River--Starts on a Trapping Expedition with Three Companions--Carson's
+ Stirring Adventure with Two Grizzly Bears.
+
+Carson gathered the horses together and set out on his return. The
+distance was considerable and he was compelled to encamp more than once
+on the road, while he was continually exposed to attack from Indians,
+but with that remarkable skill and foresight which distinguished him
+when a boy, he reached home without the slightest mishap and turned over
+the recovered animals to their owner. Some days later, several trappers
+entered camp with the statement that a large body of hunters were on
+Snake River, a fortnight's journey distant. Captain Lee at once set out
+with his men and found the company who gave them a warm welcome. They
+purchased all the supplies Captain Lee had for sale, and then, as
+Carson's engagement with the Captain was ended, he attached himself to
+the other body. He remained, however, only a few weeks, for he saw there
+were so many that they could never take enough peltries to bring
+much money to the individual members. He decided to do as he had done
+before--arrange an expedition of his own. He had but to make known
+his intentions, when he had more applicants than he could accept. He
+selected three, who it is needless to say had no superiors in the whole
+party. The little company then turned the heads of their horses toward
+Laramie River.
+
+At that day, the section abounded with beaver, and although the summer
+is not the time when their fur is in the best condition, the party
+trapped on the stream and its tributaries until cold weather set in.
+They met with far greater success than could have come to them had they
+stayed with the principal company of trappers. But they had no wish
+to spend the winter alone in the mountains and gathering their stock
+together, they set out to rejoin their old companions.
+
+One day, after they had gone into camp, Carson, leaving his horse in
+charge of his friends, set out on foot to hunt some game for their
+evening meal. They had seen no signs of Indians, though they never
+forgot to be on their guard against them. Game was not very abundant and
+Carson was obliged to go a long ways before he caught sight of some elk
+grazing on the side of a hill. Well aware of the difficulty of getting
+within gunshot of the timid animals, the hunter advanced by a circuitous
+course toward a clump of trees, which would give him the needed shelter;
+but while creeping toward the point he had fixed upon as the one from
+which to fire, the creatures scented danger and began moving off. This
+compelled him to fire at long range, but he was successful and brought
+down the finest of the group.
+
+The smoke was curling upward from the rifle of Carson, when he was
+startled by a tremendous crashing beside him, and, turning his head, he
+saw two enormous grizzly bears making for him at full speed. They were
+infuriated at this invasion of their home, and were evidently resolved
+on teaching the hunter better manners by making their supper upon him.
+
+Carson had no time to reload his gun: had it been given him he would
+have made short work of one of the brutes at least, but as it was, he
+was deprived of even that privilege. Fortunate indeed would he be if he
+could escape their fury.
+
+The grizzly bear is the most dreaded animal found on this continent.
+He does not seem to feel the slightest fear of the hunter, no matter
+whether armed or not, and, while other beasts are disposed to give man
+a wide berth, old "Ephraim," as the frontiersmen call him, always seems
+eager to attack him. His tenacity of life is extraordinary. Unless
+pierced in the head or heart, he will continue his struggles after a
+dozen or score of rifle balls have been buried in his body. So terrible
+is the grizzly bear, that an Indian can be given no higher honor
+than the privilege of wearing a necklace made from his claws--that
+distinction being permitted only to those who have slain one of the
+animals in single handed combat.
+
+No one understood the nature of these beasts better than Kit Carson and
+he knew that if either of the animals once got his claws upon him, there
+would not be the faintest chance of escape. The only thing therefore
+that could be done was to run.
+
+There were not wanting men who were fleeter of foot than Carson, but
+few could have overtaken him when he made for the trees on which all his
+hopes depended. Like the blockade runner, closely pursued by the man of
+war, he threw overboard all the cargo that could impede his speed. His
+long, heavy rifle was flung aside, and the short legs of the trapper
+doubled under him with amazing quickness as he strove as never before to
+reach the grove.
+
+Fortunately the latter was not far off, and, though the fierce beasts
+gained rapidly upon him, Carson arrived among the timber a few steps
+in advance. He had no time even to select the tree, else he would
+have chosen a different one, but making a flying leap, he grasped the
+lowermost limb and swung upward, at the moment the foremost grizzly
+was beneath him. So close in truth was his pursuer that the hunter
+distinctly felt the sweeping blow of his paw aimed at the leg which
+whisked beyond his reach just in the nick of time.
+
+But the danger was not over by any means. The enthusiastic style in
+which the bears entered into the proceedings proved they did not mean
+that any trifles should stop them. They were able to climb the tree
+which supported Carson, and he did not lose sight of the fact. Whipping
+out his hunting knife, he hurriedly cut off a short thick branch and
+trimmed it into a shape that would have made a most excellent shillelagh
+for a native of the Green Isle.
+
+He had hardly done so, when the heads of the bruins were thrust upward
+almost against his feet. Carson grasped the club with both hands and
+raising it above his shoulders brought it down with all his might upon
+the nose of the foremost. The brute sniffed with pain, threw up his
+head and drew back a few inches--just enough to place the other nose in
+front. At that instant, a resounding whack landed on the rubber snout
+and the second bear must have felt a twinge all through his body.
+
+Though each blow caused the recipient to recoil, yet he instantly
+returned, so that Carson was kept busy pounding the noses as if he was
+an old fashioned farmer threshing wheat with a flail.
+
+It was a question with Carson which would last the longer--the club or
+the snouts, but in the hope of getting beyond their reach, he climbed to
+the topmost bough, where he crouched into the smallest possible space.
+It was idle, however, to hope they would overlook him, for they pushed
+on up the tree which swayed with their weight.
+
+The nose of the grizzly bear is one of the most sensitive portions of
+his body, and the vigorous thumps which the hunter brought down upon
+them, brought tears of pain to their eyes. But while they suffered, they
+were roused to fury by the repeated rebuffs, and seemed all the more
+set on crunching the flesh and bones of the insignificant creature who
+defied them.
+
+It must have been exasperating beyond imagination to the gigantic
+beasts, who feared neither man nor animal to find themselves repeatedly
+baffled by a miserable being whom they could rend to pieces with one
+blow of their paws, provided they could approach nigh enough to reach
+him.
+
+They came up again and again; they would draw back so as to avoid those
+stinging strokes, sniff, growl and push upward, more eager than ever to
+clutch the poor fellow, who was compressing himself between the limb and
+the trunk, and raining his blows with the persistency of a pugilist.
+
+They were finally forced to desist for a few minutes in order to give
+their snouts time to regain their tone. The bulky creatures looked at
+each other and seemed to say, "That's a mighty queer customer up there;
+he doesn't fight fairly, but we'll fetch him yet."
+
+Once more and for the last time, they returned to the charge, but the
+plucky scout was awaiting them, and his club whizzed through the air
+like the piston rod of a steam engine. The grizzlies found it more than
+they could stand, and tumbling back to solid earth they gave up the
+contract in disgust. Carson tarried where he was until they were beyond
+sight, when he descended and hastily caught up and reloaded his rifle,
+having escaped, as he always declared, by the narrowest chance of all
+his life.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+
+ On the Green River--In the Blackfoot Country--The Blackfeet--An
+ Unwelcome Visit--The Pursuit and Parley--Dissolution of the Peace
+ Congress.
+
+The day was drawing to a close when Carson set out for camp, which was
+not reached until after dark. His companions did not feel any special
+alarm over his continued absence, for the good reason that they were
+confident he could take care of himself no matter in what labyrinth of
+peril he might become involved.
+
+It was too late to send for the carcass of the elk and more than likely
+it had already been devoured by wolves. So the trappers made their
+breakfast on one of the beavers found in their traps, and went into
+camp to await the arrival of the main body of trappers, which Carson
+was confident would come that way. Some days later they put in an
+appearance, and the company proceeded to the general rendezvous on Green
+River, where were found assembled the principal trappers of the Rocky
+Mountains. There were fully two hundred divided into two camps. What a
+history could have been written from the thrilling experiences of such a
+body of men!
+
+They had gathered at the rendezvous to buy what supplies they needed
+and to dispose of their peltries. It was several weeks before the
+negotiations were over, when the assemblage broke up into smaller
+companies which started for their destinations hundreds of miles apart.
+
+Carson joined a party numbering about fifty who intended to trap near
+the headwaters of the Missouri. Hundreds of beavers had been taken in
+that section, but poor success went with the large band of which Carson
+was a member. That was bad enough, but they were in a neighborhood
+which, it may be said, was the very heart of the Blackfoot country,
+and those hostiles were never more active and vigilant in their warfare
+against the invaders.
+
+The Blackfeet or Satsika today, are the most westerly tribe of the
+Algonquin family of Indians, extending from the Hudson Bay to the
+Missouri and Yellowstone. They number over 12,000 warriors about equally
+divided between Montana and British America. They have always been
+a daring and warlike people, and the early explorers of the Far West
+probably met with more trouble from them than from any other tribe on
+the continent.
+
+Carson and his companions ran in difficulty at once. The Blackfeet
+seemed to swarm through the woods, and sent in their treacherous shots
+from the most unexpected quarters. Whoever made the round of the traps
+in the morning was almost certain to be fired upon. Matters became
+so bad that after a time the trappers decided to leave the country.
+Accordingly they made their way to the Big Snake River where they
+went into quarters for the winter. Even there they were not safe from
+molestation at the hands of their old enemies the Blackfeet.
+
+One night, when there was no moon or stars, a band of warriors stole
+into camp and ran off about twenty of the best horses. This outrage
+touched the hunters in the most sensitive part of their nature, and
+the truth no sooner became known than they unanimously agreed that the
+animals not only should be recovered but the audacious aggressors should
+be chastised.
+
+Twelve men were selected for the most difficult and dangerous task and
+need we give the name of the youth who was made the leader?
+
+With his usual promptness, Carson took the trail which was followed
+without trouble over the snow. The Blackfeet had reason to fear some
+such demonstration, and they hurried off with such speed that they were
+not overtaken until fifty miles from camp.
+
+The situation was a novel one. The Indians had come to a halt and the
+horses were grazing on the side of a hill where the wind had blown away
+the snow. The Blackfeet had on snowshoes which gave them an advantage
+over the trappers. The latter galloped in the direction of their
+horses, the moment they caught sight of them. The Blackfeet fired at the
+trappers, who returned a scattering volley but no one was hurt on either
+side. Then followed skirmishing and manoeuvering for several minutes,
+without either party gaining advantage. Finally the Blackfeet asked for
+a parley to which the trappers assented.
+
+In accordance with the usual custom, one of the Indians advanced to a
+point midway between the two parties and halted. At the same time, one
+of the trappers went forward, the rest of the whites and red men keeping
+their distance and watching them.
+
+The Blackfoot opened business by what might be termed an apology which
+was no more genuine than many made by his civilized brethren under
+somewhat similar circumstances. He expressed great surprise to learn
+that the horses belonged to their good friends the trappers. They had
+supposed all along that they were the property of the Snake Indians
+whom the Blackfeet considered it their duty to despoil on every suitable
+occasion.
+
+This glaring misrepresentation did not deceive the man who was acting as
+spokesman for his side. By way of reply, he asked that if such was
+the case, why had not the Blackfeet come forward on discovering their
+mistake, greeted their white brothers as friends and returned their
+property to them.
+
+The replies were evasive and the hunters became convinced that the
+Indians were seeking to gain time for some sinister purpose; but a full
+parley having been agreed upon, both parties left their guns behind and
+advanced to where their representatives were holding their interview.
+
+The Blackfeet still professed the most ardent friendship, and as an
+emphatic token of the same, produced the calumet and began smoking the
+pipe of peace. The tobacco having been lit, each took several whiffs
+and then passed it to his neighbor, who did the same until the round was
+completed. This solemn pledge of good will having been exchanged, the
+convention or peace congress was opened as may be said, in due and
+ancient form.
+
+Carson and his companions were distrustful from the start, though it was
+hard for them to decide the meaning of the prolonged negotiations, since
+no one could see what the Blackfeet were to gain by such a course. They
+may have hoped to deceive the hunters and throw them off their guard,
+but, if such was the case, they failed.
+
+First of all, the leading warriors indulged in several long speeches
+which were without point, but what was said in reply could admit of no
+doubt as to its meaning. The trappers understood the Blackfoot tongue
+well enough to make their responses models in the way of brevity and
+force. They said that it was idle to talk of friendship or peace until
+the stolen property was returned to its owners. The Indians still
+attempted to postpone or evade, but the complainants were in no mood
+for trifling and they repeated their declaration more positively than
+before.
+
+The Blackfeet were much more numerous than the whites, and confident of
+their strength, began to bluster and to assert that whatever they did
+would be dictated by their own wishes and not by any fear of their
+visitors. Whether they desired to avoid a fight or not can only be
+conjectured, but they finally sent back to where the horses were
+tethered and caused five of the worst to be picked out and brought
+forward.
+
+When the trappers inquired the meaning of this proceeding, the Indians
+said that it was the best they could do and the hunters must be content.
+
+This last insult was the spark which exploded the magazine. Instantly
+every white man ran for his gun, and the Blackfeet did the same. A few
+seconds after they wheeled about and the sanguinary fight began.
+
+Kit Carson and a companion were the first to obtain their guns and as
+a consequence they led the advance. Each selected a warrior who was
+partially hidden by the trunk of a tree. Carson was in the act of
+firing, when he observed that his friend was examining the lock of his
+gun all unmindful of the fact that one of the Blackfeet had levelled his
+weapon directly at his breast. On the instant, Kit changed his aim and
+shot the savage dead, thereby saving the life of his friend, who could
+not have escaped had the weapon of his adversary been discharged.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+
+ Carson Badly Wounded--A Drawn Battle--An Ineffectual Pursuit--The Summer
+ Rendezvous--Carson's Duel.
+
+This act of chivalry on the part of Carson simply transferred the peril
+of his friend to himself, for the Indian whom he had selected for his
+target was carefully sighting at him, at the very moment the gun was
+discharged. Kit saw what was coming and bounded to one side in the hope
+of dodging the bullet. Quick as he was, however, he did not entirely
+succeed, though the act doubtless saved his life. The ball from
+the rifle of his adversary grazed his neck and buried itself in his
+shoulder, shattering the head of one of the bones.
+
+Carson though badly hurt, did not fall or retreat. On the contrary, he
+tried desperately to reload his gun, but found it impossible to raise
+his arm. He was hors de combat beyond all question, and bleeding so
+fast that his weakness compelled him to lie down on the ground while
+the conflict went on about him. The fight was very hot for a time,
+the result being what may be called a drawn battle, with the advantage
+inclining to the side of the Indians. The trappers fell back to the
+safest place that presented itself and went into camp. They dared not
+start a fire; for they knew it would bring an attack from the Indians,
+but wrapping their saddle blankets around them, they bore the intense
+cold as best they could.
+
+The sufferings of Carson were great. His wounds continued bleeding and
+froze upon the dressings, which were of the most primitive character.
+And yet not once through those hours of anguish did he utter a word of
+complaint. Many a strong man would have cried out in his agony, but one
+might have sat within arm's length of the mountaineer without knowing he
+was hurt at all.
+
+More than that, Carson took his part in the council which was held in
+the cold and darkness. The conclusion reached was that the party of
+trappers were not strong enough to pursue the Blackfeet, and the proper
+course to pursue was to rejoin the main body and report what had been
+done. It would then be time enough to decide upon their future action.
+
+When this programme was carried out, a larger party of hunters under
+the lead of an experienced mountaineer resumed the pursuit; but nothing
+could be found of the savages. They had utilized the grace allowed
+them so well that it was impossible to overtake or trace them, and the
+indignant trappers were obliged to submit to their loss.
+
+The severe cold moderated, and, as spring was close at hand the hunters
+pushed their trapping operations along the Green and Snake Rivers,
+meeting with unbounded success. They gathered more peltries than they
+had dared to hope for, and when warm weather approached, went into
+quarters where they remained until the following fall, a party of
+traders having brought them all the supplies they needed.
+
+The rugged constitution of Carson and his temperate habits caused him
+speedily to recover from his severe wound. He again became the active,
+vigilant, keen witted guide and hunter who was looked up to by all as
+the most consummate master of woodcraft that had ever been known in the
+west.
+
+Such a large party as were gathered at the summer rendezvous was certain
+to include many varieties of people. The frank, brave and open hearted,
+the sly and treacherous, the considerate and courteous, the quarrelsome
+and overbearing--indeed the temperaments of the individuals composing
+the company were as varied as it is possible to imagine.
+
+Among them was a powerful Frenchman known as Captain Shunan. He had won
+his title by hard fighting, possessed a magnificent physique, was brave
+and skilled in the use of arms, and was the most quarrelsome individual
+in camp. It is impossible to picture a more irascible and disagreeable
+personage than Captain Shunan, who appeared to spend all his spare
+time in trying to provoke quarrels with those around him. Sometimes he
+succeeded, but more often his insolence was submitted to by men as brave
+as he, but who wished to avoid trouble with him.
+
+The activity and strength of the Frenchman were so great that a skilful
+pugilist would have found difficulty in handling him. The only ground
+upon which he could be met with anything like fairness was where
+firearms were used.
+
+On one of these occasions, the bully became unbearable in his behavior.
+He knocked down several weak and inoffensive persons, and swaggered back
+and forth through camp, boasting that he could trounce any one there. In
+the midst of his bluster, Carson walked up in front of him and said in a
+voice loud enough to be heard by those around:
+
+"Captain Shunan, there are plenty here who can easily chastise you, but
+they prefer to submit to your impudence for the sake of peace: however,
+we have had enough and now I notify you to stop at once or I shall kill
+you!"
+
+These were astounding words, and, as may be supposed, when uttered by
+a man six inches shorter and many pounds lighter than the blustering
+Captain, they fairly took away his breath. Carson spoke in his quiet,
+soft voice, as though there was not the least cause for excitement;
+but those who knew him, noted the flash of his clear, gray eye and
+understood his deadly earnestness.
+
+Captain Shunan was infuriated by the words of Carson. As soon as he
+could recover himself, he turned about and without speaking a word,
+walked to his quarters. Kit did not need be told what that meant. He
+did the same, walking to his own lodge, from which he speedily emerged
+holding a single barrel pistol. He was so anxious to be on the ground in
+time, that he caught up the first weapon that presented itself.
+
+Almost at the same moment, Captain Shunan appeared with his rifle.
+Carson observed him, and, though he could have secured without
+difficulty a similar weapon, he did not do so. He was willing to give
+his burly antagonist the advantage, if it should prove such. The other
+trappers as may be supposed, watched the actions of the two men with
+breathless interest. The quarrel had taken such a course that they
+were convinced that one or the other of the combatants would be killed.
+Captain Shunan had been so loud in his boasts that he did not dare
+swallow the insult, put on him by the fragile Kit Carson. Had he done
+so, he would have been hooted out of camp and probably lynched.
+
+As for Kit, his courage was beyond suspicion. He feared no man and was
+sure to acquit himself creditably no matter in what circumstances he was
+placed. He was the most popular member of the large company, while his
+antagonist was the most detested; but the love of fair play was such
+that no one would interfere, no matter how great the need for doing so.
+
+The duellists, as they may be called, mounted each his horse and
+circling about the plain, speedily headed toward each other and dashed
+forward on a dead run. As they approached, they reined up and halted
+face to face, within arm's length.
+
+Looking his antagonist straight in the eye, Carson demanded:
+
+"Are you looking for me?"
+
+"Have you any business with me?"
+
+"No," growled the savage Frenchman; but, while the words were in his
+mouth, brought his rifle to his shoulder, and, pointing it at the breast
+of Carson, pulled the trigger; but Kit expected some such treacherous
+act, and, before the gun could be fired, he threw up his pistol and
+discharged it as may be said, across the barrel of the leveled weapon.
+
+The ball broke the forearm of Captain Shunan, at the very moment he
+discharged his gun. The shock diverted the aim so that the bullet grazed
+his scalp, inflicting a trifling wound; but the combatants were so close
+that the powder of the rifle scorched the face of the mountaineer.
+
+Captain Shunan had been badly worsted, and was disabled for weeks
+afterward. He accepted his fate without complaint and was effectually
+cured of his overbearing manner toward his associates.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+
+ On the Yellowstone--Repeated Disappointments--Carson Enters the Employ
+ of a Hudson Bay Trader--Poor Success--A Trying Journey--Arrival at Fort
+ Hall--The American Buffalo or Bison.
+
+With the approach of cool weather, preparations were made for the fall
+hunt. When all was ready, the trappers headed for the Yellowstone, which
+was reached without mishap, and they immediately set their traps. The
+country as a rule, was a good one for those valuable animals, but the
+visitors were disappointed to learn they were unusually scarce.
+
+When it became evident that it was useless to work on the Yellowstone,
+they gathered up their traps and made their way to the Big Horn, but,
+failing again, tried their fortunes on other rivers in that vicinity
+with no better results.
+
+It was while engaged in this discouraging work that they met a trader
+belonging to the Hudson Bay Company. He had been pushing operations in
+every direction, but the stories he told were of the same general tenor
+as those of the larger party. He had been as unsuccessful in the way of
+trade as they had been in catching the fur bearing animals.
+
+The Hudson Bay trader, however, was confident he could succeed where
+they had failed, and he made such liberal offers to Carson that he and
+several of his companions accepted them on the spot.
+
+The first point which they visited was the Humboldt River, from which
+had come reports of the abundance of beavers. They began near the head
+waters of the stream, and carefully trapped down to the Great Basin.
+Meeting with only moderate success, they made their way to Big Snake
+River. After remaining there a considerable time, the party divided,
+the Hudson Bay trader and his friends going northward toward Fort Walla
+Walla, while Carson and the larger number set out for Fort Hall.
+
+The journey thither was one of the most distressing which Kit Carson
+ever undertook. The country through which most of the march led is one
+of the most dismal wastes on the American continent. Except in extent, a
+journey across it is similar to that of the parched caravans across the
+flaming sands of Sahara. Carson and his companions were accustomed to
+all manner of privations, but more than once their endurance was tried
+to the utmost point.
+
+The trappers had gathered some nutritious roots upon which they managed
+to subsist for a time, but these soon gave out, and their situation grew
+desperate. When almost famishing they bled their mules and drank the
+warm current. They would have killed one of the animals, but for the
+fact that they could not spare it, and, as there was no calculating how
+long the others would last, they were afraid to take the step, which was
+likely to cripple them fatally.
+
+This strange source of nourishment served them for the time, but a
+repetition would endanger the lives of their animals, who were also in
+sore straits, inasmuch as the grass was not only poor but very scanty.
+Matters rapidly grew worse, and soon became so desperate that Carson
+said they would have to kill one of their animals or else lie down and
+perish themselves.
+
+At this trying crisis, they discovered a band of Indians approaching.
+Perhaps the hapless situation in which all were placed left no room for
+enmity, for the red men showed a friendly disposition. The high hopes of
+Carson and his friends were chilled when it was found that the Indians
+were in about as bad a plight as themselves. They had barely a mouthful
+of food among them, and, when besought to barter with the whites, they
+shook their heads. They had nothing to trade, and, while they felt no
+hostility toward the suffering trappers, they gave them to understand
+they could not afford any help at all.
+
+But Carson had fixed his eyes on a plump old horse, and never did a
+shrewd New Englander apply himself more persistently to secure a prize
+than did he. Kit's companions put forth all their powers of persuasion,
+but in vain, and they advised Carson that he was throwing away his
+efforts in attempting the impossible.
+
+But Carson succeeded, and when the equine was slaughtered and broiled,
+the trappers enjoyed one of the most delicious feasts of their lives.
+They filled themselves to repletion and felt that the enjoyment it
+brought was almost worth the suffering they had undergone to obtain it.
+
+When their strength was recruited, they resumed their journey and a few
+days later reached Fort Hall. There they found abundance of food and
+received a cordial welcome. In a brief while they were as strong as ever
+and eager for any new enterprise.
+
+Hundreds of bisons were in the neighborhood of the fort and Carson
+and his friends slew them by the score. Indeed they kept the post well
+supplied with fresh meet as long as they remained there.
+
+The animal almost universally known as the "buffalo" is miscalled, his
+correct name being the "bison," of which there are droves numbering, it
+is said, as high as a hundred thousand. The flesh is held in high
+repute by hunters, and not only is nourishing but possesses the valuable
+quality of not cloying the appetite. The most delicate portion of the
+animal is the hump which gives the peculiar appearance to his back. That
+and the tongue and marrow bones are frequently the only portions made
+use of by the hunter.
+
+The hide answers many useful purposes. All know how much a "buffalo
+robe" is appreciated in wintry weather by those exposed to cold. It
+serves to form the Indian's tents, his bed, parts of his dress and is
+sometimes made into a shield which will turn aside a rifle ball that
+does not strike it fairly.
+
+Hundreds of thousands of bisons are killed annually--myriads of them
+in pure wantonness--and yet enormous droves may be encountered today in
+many portions of the west, where it is hard for the experienced hunters
+to detect any decrease in their numbers.
+
+Some of the methods employed to slay bisons are cruel in the extreme.
+Many a time a large herd has been stampeded in the direction of some
+precipice. When the leaders found themselves on the edge, they have
+endeavored to recoil; but there was no stemming the tide behind them.
+The terrified animals literally pushed the leaders over the rocks and
+then tumbled upon them. In a little while the gully or stream would be
+choked with the furiously struggling creatures and hundreds would be
+killed within a few minutes.
+
+The bison is as fond as the hog of wallowing in mud. When he comes upon
+a marshy spot he lies down and rolls about until he has worn out a large
+and shallow excavation into which the water oozes through the damp soil.
+Lying down again he rolls and turns until he is plastered from head
+to tail with mud. Though it cannot be said that it adds to his
+attractiveness, yet the coating no doubt serves well as a protection
+against the swarms of insects, which are sometimes terrible enough to
+sting animals to death.
+
+Those who have viewed the scraggy specimens in the menageries and
+zoological gardens would scarcely suspect the activity and power of
+running possessed by them. The body is covered with such an abundance
+of hair that it looks larger than it really is, while the legs appear
+smaller. But the bison not only can run swiftly, but possesses great
+endurance. They will often dash at full speed over ground so rough that
+the more graceful horse will stumble.
+
+When wounded by the hunters, a bull will sometimes turn in desperation
+on his persecutor. Then, unless the horse is well trained, serious
+consequences are likely to follow. The plunging thrust of his stumpy
+horns perhaps rips open the steed, sending the rider flying over the
+back of the furious bison, who may turn upon him and slay him before he
+can escape.
+
+This rarely happens, however, the bison being a huge, cowardly creature
+which prefers to run rather than fight, and a hunt of the game in these
+days often takes the character of wholesale butchery in which no true
+sportsman would engage.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+
+ A Strange Occurrence--Arrival of Friends--Carson Joins a Large
+ Company--Trapping on the Yellowstone--The Blackfeet--A Dreadful
+ Scourge--In Winter Quarters--The Friendly Crow Indians--Loss of Two
+ Trappers--On the Head Waters of the Missouri.
+
+A singular occurrence took place a few nights after the return of Carson
+and his friends from an extended bison hunt. Their horses and mules were
+corralled near the post and a sentinel was on duty at all hours of the
+night to prevent the animals being stolen by the Indians who were always
+prowling through the neighborhood.
+
+In the dim uncertain light, just beyond midnight, the sentinel saw two
+men walk forward from the darkness, and without any appearance of haste,
+let down the bars and drive out the stock. Very naturally he concluded
+they were his friends who intended to take out the animals to graze. As
+there was nothing more for him to do, he sought his quarters, lay down
+and went to sleep.
+
+In the morning not a horse or a mule was to be found. The two
+individuals who had let down the bars and driven them out, were
+Blackfeet Indians, whose complete success was due to their amazing
+audacity. Had they shown any hesitation or haste, the suspicions of the
+sentinel would have been aroused, but when the truth became known, he
+was the most astonished man at the fort.
+
+The hunters were in a most sorry plight, for the Blackfeet having made
+a clean sweep, they were without the means of pursuing and recovering
+their property. The parties who belonged at the fort had suffered a
+somewhat similar trick a short time before from the same tribe, so that
+only a few rickety horses remained in their possession.
+
+Under the circumstances, the trappers were compelled to accept their
+misfortune with grim philosophy, and await the arrival of the rest
+of the party, who had promised to rejoin them after completing their
+business at Fort Walla Walla.
+
+Sure enough, a few weeks later, their friends appeared and
+providentially indeed they brought with them an extra supply of
+excellent horses. The trappers were in overflowing spirits once more and
+soon started for the general rendezvous on Green River.
+
+Other trappers continued to arrive for a number of days, until about all
+that were expected had come in. Trade and barter then began and lasted
+some three weeks. The scene was picturesque and stirring and there was
+much hand shaking and pleasant wishes when the time came to separate.
+
+Kit Carson left the employ of the Hudson Bay Company trader and attached
+himself to a party numbering fully a hundred who had determined to
+trap along the Yellowstone. It will be recalled that Carson once quit a
+company of trappers because it was too large, and it may be wondered why
+he should join one that was still more numerous. The reason he did
+so was because they were going into the very heart of the Blackfoot
+country. They had suffered so much from these daring marauders that
+they knew there would be no safety unless they went in strong force.
+Furthermore, the whites had so many old scores to settle with those
+redskins that they meant to invite attack from them. If the Blackfeet
+would only offer the opportunity for battle, the trappers meant to give
+them their fill.
+
+The formidable company arranged matters according to a system. Dividing
+into two equal parties, the duty of one was made to trap beaver, while
+the other furnished food and guarded the property. By this means,
+they would always be in shape to meet their sworn foes, while the real
+business which brought them into the country would not be neglected.
+
+The hunters were confident they would not be left alone very long. The
+Blackfeet would resent the invasion of their hunting grounds, and to say
+the least, would take measures to prevent the time hanging heavily on
+the hands of the pale faces.
+
+But, to the astonishment of the trappers, the days passed without
+bringing a glimpse of the savages. No hostile shot awoke the impressive
+stillness of the wilderness. Could it be the Blackfeet were seeking to
+throw the whites off their guard? Did they expect to induce a degree of
+carelessness that would enable the Blackfeet to gather their warriors
+and overwhelm them before they could reply?
+
+It was not reasonable to suppose that the sagacious tribe held any such
+belief, for they could not have failed to know that any such hope was
+idle.
+
+But the explanation came one day by a party of friendly Crow Indians,
+who stated that the small pox was raging with such awful virulence among
+the Blackfeet that they were dying by hundreds and thousands. Indeed,
+the havoc was so dreadful that there was reason to believe the whole
+tribe would be swept away.
+
+It would not be the first time that such an annihilation has taken place
+among the American Indians. The treatment required by that frightful
+disease is precisely the opposite of that which the red man in his
+ignorance pursues. When small pox breaks out among them, therefore, the
+mortality becomes appalling.
+
+The Crow Indians affiliated with the trappers and guided them to a
+secluded valley, where they established themselves for the winter. The
+lodges were made strong and substantial, and it was fortunate that such
+precautions were taken, for the winter proved one of the severest known
+for many years. With their abundance of fuel, they kept enormous fires
+going and passed the days and nights in comparative comfort.
+
+But it was far different with their stock. During the severe weather,
+the only food that could be obtained was the bark of the cottonwood.
+The inner lining of this is quite palatable to animals and in cases of
+extremity it affords temporary sustenance to men. With its help actual
+starvation was kept away, though it came very close.
+
+Unusual weather always brings unusual experience, and the intense cold
+developed an annoyance to the trappers upon which they had not counted.
+The difficulty of finding food was felt by the wild animals as well
+as domestic, and the bisons became desperate. When they saw the horses
+eating their fodder, they rushed forward and with lowered heads drove
+them away. If a horse or mule refused, he was likely to be gored to
+death.
+
+The beasts finally became so numerous and fierce they would have killed
+all the stock of our friends if they had not kindled large fires and
+mounted constant guard. When the weather moderated those annoyances
+ended.
+
+Had any explorer of the west found his way to the secluded valley
+where the trappers were in winter quarters, he would have looked upon
+a striking scene. The Crow Indians and white men engaged in numerous
+athletic sports in friendly rivalry. They maintained the best of terms,
+and when the bisons departed, the strange community enjoyed themselves
+far better than would be supposed. In truth where they were favored with
+such rugged health and where they had plenty of food and comfortable
+quarters, it would have been remarkable had they not been comparatively
+happy. They were not disturbed by political discussions or diversity of
+views on any public questions and were satisfied that the glorious Union
+was safe without any worriment on their part.
+
+When spring came, two of their party were sent to Fort Laramie to
+procure needed supplies. They went off well mounted and armed and
+were never heard of again. Somewhere in the recesses of the forest or
+mountain, the Blackfeet had probably killed them as they had done with
+many a brave man before, and as they have done with multitudes since.
+
+When it became certain the messengers had been slain, the company
+began the spring hunt without them. After trapping a brief while on the
+Yellowstone, they worked their way to the head waters of the Missouri.
+They met with fair success and while engaged in that section, learned
+that the reports of the ravages of the small pox among the Blackfeet had
+been greatly exaggerated. Instead of being decimated, the tribe had
+not suffered to any serious extent and were as strong and aggressive as
+ever.
+
+The trappers were not displeased to learn that such was the case,
+for they desired a settlement of accounts with them. Under such
+circumstances it was impossible that hostilities should be long delayed.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+
+ A Fierce Battle with the Blackfeet--Daring Act of Kit Carson--Arrival of
+ the Reserves and End of the Battle.
+
+When near the head waters of the Missouri, the trappers discovered they
+were approaching the principal village of the Blackfeet. They determined
+to attack and punish the Indians who had caused them so much trouble
+and suffering; but the whites were so numerous and powerful that extreme
+care was necessary to prevent their presence becoming known.
+
+When a number of miles from the village, the trappers came to a halt,
+and Kit Carson with several men was sent forward to reconnoitre. With
+extreme caution they made their way to a point from which they could
+overlook the village.
+
+A glance showed the Indians hurriedly making ready to move elsewhere.
+The shrewd red men had discovered their danger before their enemies
+caught sight of them. Carson galloped back as rapidly as he could, and
+made known what had been seen. A council was hastily called and about
+half the company advanced to give the Blackfeet battle. Kit Carson, as
+might be supposed, was made the leader. The others were to guard the
+property, advance slowly and act as reserve, which could be hurried
+forward should it become necessary.
+
+As agreed upon, Kit Carson galloped ahead, and the moment his men came
+in sight of the village, they dashed through it, killing a number
+of warriors. The others slowly fell back, fighting as they went, and
+without showing the least panic. They received charge after charge of
+the white men, with the steadiness of veterans. By and by the eagerness
+of the trappers reduced their ammunition and their firing became less
+destructive. The Blackfeet were quick to perceive the cause, and in turn
+they charged upon their assailants who became immediately involved in
+a desperate hand to hand fight. It was then the small arms in the
+possession of the whites played their part. They were used with such
+effect, that the fierce warriors were compelled once more to retreat.
+
+But the courageous red men recoiled a short distance only, when they
+halted and then, with exultant yells, dashed toward the trappers, who
+despite all they could do, were forced back until it looked as if the
+whole party would be overwhelmed and destroyed.
+
+On this retreat, one of the horses belonging to the hunters was shot,
+and plunged to the ground so suddenly that his rider was caught before
+he could spring from the saddle. Several of the warriors were quick to
+perceive his sore straits, and dashed toward him, eager to secure his
+scalp. The poor fellow struggled desperately, but could not extricate
+himself, and his expression of horrified despair when he perceived the
+fierce red men running a race with each other to reach him, would have
+melted the heart of almost any one.
+
+Carson was several rods distant, but seeing the danger of his friend,
+he bounded out of his saddle, and shouted to the others to rally to the
+defence of their imperilled comrade. Kit raised his rifle while on the
+run and shot the leading warrior dead. The other whites were so close
+behind that the remaining Blackfeet whirled and ran for their lives.
+Several of them were shot down before they could reach the shelter of
+the rocks from behind which they sprang after the fallen white man.
+
+Carson's devotion to his friend now placed him in an unpleasant if not
+dangerous situation. His steed being without restraint, galloped off
+beyond his reach, and the commander was thus left on foot, when there
+was urgent need that he should be mounted.
+
+Meanwhile the mountaineer who was caught under the body of his horse,
+was struggling desperately to withdraw his imprisoned leg, for there was
+no saying when the Blackfeet would be upon him again. He succeeded at
+last, and, standing upon his feet, shook himself together, as may be
+said, and he found that though pretty badly bruised, no bones were
+broken, and he was able to do his full part in the serious duty before
+him.
+
+The exciting episode benefited the trappers in one respect: it served to
+check the seemingly resistless rush of the Blackfeet and gave the others
+a chance to rally and fix upon some course of action.
+
+Carson ran rapidly toward the nearest horseman and sprang upon the back
+of his animal behind him. The steed was forced to his best and speedily
+joined the main body a short distance off. It was fortunate that just at
+that moment there came a lull in the furious fighting, else Carson could
+scarcely have escaped so well. The runaway horse was pursued by one
+of the mountaineers who finally cornered and brought him back to their
+leader.
+
+The Blackfeet did not follow the whites, nor did the latter return to
+their charge against them. Both parties had gained a thorough taste of
+each other's mettle, and the conclusion reached was like that of two
+trained pugilists--their strength was so nearly equal that neither could
+afford to throw away his advantage by leading in the assault.
+
+Undoubtedly Carson and his men would have withdrawn but for the hope
+that the reserves were close at hand. The trappers had fought valiantly
+but not more so than the Indians, who still possessed plenty ammunition
+while that of the whites was nearly exhausted. Had they advanced and
+encountered the warriors again, the latter would have swept everything
+before them. As it was, the mountaineers were by no means safe even when
+acting on the defensive. If the red men should charge upon them with
+their old time fierceness, it was by no means certain they would
+not destroy the whites. The fight would necessarily be of the most
+sanguinary nature, but when guns and small arms were useless for lack
+of ammunition, nothing short of a miracle could save them from
+annihilation.
+
+Several hours had gone and Carson and his men wondered what could delay
+the reserves. Time always passes slowly to those in waiting, and to some
+of the hunters the tardiness of their friends was unaccountable. Carson
+was on the point of sending messengers back to hurry them forward, when
+the whole party appeared and the situation changed.
+
+But those who expected the Blackfeet to flee in panic when they observed
+the doubling of the assailing forces, were much mistaken. The feeling
+among the Indians could not be described as in the least "panicky."
+They quietly surveyed the new arrivals and prepared with the coolness
+of veterans for the conflict that was sure to come, within the next few
+minutes.
+
+The powder was distributed among the trappers, who were more eager than
+ever to attack their old enemies, who were as ready as they for the
+conflict. Nearly two hundred yards separated the combatants, when
+the mountaineers, leaving their horses behind, advanced on foot. The
+Blackfeet stationed themselves behind rocks and trees and defiantly
+awaited the attack.
+
+In a few minutes the most savage fight of the day was raging. A hundred
+rifles were flashing in every direction and the yells of the red men
+mingled with the shouts of the excited mountaineers.
+
+As the warriors had used every means to shelter themselves, it was
+necessary to dislodge them before they could be driven back. Without
+remaining together in a compact mass, the trappers made for them with
+the fierceness of tigers.
+
+The result of this charge were a number of remarkable combats. A hunter
+would dash at a warrior crouching behind some rock, and the two would
+begin dodging, advancing, retreating, firing, striking and manoeuvering
+against each other. Sometimes one would succeed and sometimes the other.
+The Blackfoot, finding the situation becoming too hot, would break
+for other cover and probably would be shot on the run or would escape
+altogether. Again, it would be the white man who would be just a second
+too late in discharging his gun and would pay the penalty with his life.
+
+At last the Indians began falling back and the mountaineers pushing them
+hard, they finally broke and fled in a wild panic, leaving many dead
+behind them. On the part of the trappers three had been killed and quite
+a number badly wounded.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+
+ At Brown's Hole--Trading in the Navajoe Country--Carson Serves as Hunter
+ at Brown's Hole--Trapping in the Black Hills--On the Yellowstone--Fight
+ with the Blackfeet--Their Retreat to an Island--Their Flight During the
+ Night--An Imposing Array of Warriors.
+
+The fight between the Blackfeet and trappers was one of the most
+important in which Kit Carson, previous to the late war, was ever
+engaged. The forces must have included several hundred, and the lesson
+administered to the aggressive red men was remembered by them a long
+time.
+
+After burying their dead, looking after the wounded and setting matters
+to rights, the hunters resumed trapping through the Blackfoot country.
+They were scarcely disturbed by their old enemies who dreaded rousing
+the resentment of such a formidable body of daring and unerring
+marksmen.
+
+Our friends were very successful, and, when they made their way to the
+rendezvous, a week's journey away, they carried with them an immense
+stock of peltries. When the trading was finished, the parties made new
+combinations and departed in different directions. Instead of attaching
+himself to a large company, Kit Carson and seven choice spirits started
+for a trading post known at that time as Brown's Hole. They reached
+there just in time for the leader to join an expedition, numbering only
+two beside himself, which went into the Navajoe country for purposes of
+barter. The venture proved a great success and Carson drifted back again
+to Brown's Hole. There such liberal offers were made him to serve
+as hunter for the fort, that he accepted and entered upon his rather
+singular, but exceedingly congenial duties.
+
+These, as the reader must know, simply consisted of keeping the garrison
+supplied with all the meat they needed. Though the country was noted for
+its fine game, it required much time, skill and patience for Carson to
+make sure that none of the vigorous appetites at the post suffered. No
+one could have done better and very few as well as he. When spring came,
+and he gave up his position, he was complimented by those whom he left
+behind on the admirable manner in which he had met all requirements.
+
+During those years there was much similarity in the life and experience
+of Kit Carson. He had become known all through the west and southwest
+as the most daring, sagacious and brilliant leader in that country. His
+services were in demand wherever he went, and as he was in the enjoyment
+of perfect health, overrunning with life and activity, he made money
+rapidly and showed his wisdom by laying aside a respectable sum for a
+rainy day.
+
+In the spring following his engagement at Brown's Hole, he went with
+a small party to the Black Hills, where they were quite successful in
+hunting. Later in the summer they joined the main body of trappers on
+Green River. All meeting at the general rendezvous on a branch of the
+Wind River. Still later, the majority of the trappers went into winter
+quarters on the Yellowstone. They were again in the country of their
+bitter enemies, the Blackfeet, and were certain of a fight with them;
+but several months passed without molestation.
+
+One day, however, several of the trappers who were making the rounds
+of the traps, came upon signs which showed they were close to a strong
+force of the Blackfeet. The men lost no time in hurrying back to camp
+with the news, where it was agreed that trouble was at hand.
+
+Forty men were selected at once to hunt out the Indians and engage them
+in battle. It goes without saying, that Kit Carson was made the leader
+and there was not a moment's unnecessary delay in starting out to find
+the enemy.
+
+They were successful in their search. They suddenly found themselves in
+the presence of a scouting party, who were undoubtedly looking for them;
+but perceiving the strength of the whites, they began retreating. Carson
+and his men pressed them hotly, when, as anticipated, they fell back on
+the main body and one of the old fashioned battles between trappers and
+Indians began.
+
+The Blackfeet always fight bravely, and, for a time, they held their
+ground well, but they were forced to give way and retired to a small
+island in the Yellowstone, where they had thrown up rude fortifications
+and felt able to hold their own against a much superior force.
+
+Darkness closed in upon the contending forces, and the assailants ceased
+firing and encamped for the night on the bank of the river. They were on
+the qui vive through the still hours, and so eager for the attack that
+with the earliest streakings of light in the east, they plunged into the
+stream and made for the barricades. It was not to be supposed that the
+Blackfeet would be taken off their guard, and the trappers expected to
+reach the defences through a hot fusillade from the dusky defenders.
+
+To their surprise, however, not a single gun was discharged and they
+rushed pell mell over the rugged fortifications to engage the enemy
+in hand to hand conflict. To their chagrin, however, not a solitary
+Blackfoot was visible. Despite the watchfulness of the white men, the
+entire Indian force had withdrawn during the night without arousing the
+least suspicion on the part of the watchers.
+
+But the trappers were too wise to misconstrue the action of the
+Blackfeet. Their withdrawal was a strategic movement, and did not by
+any means signify they were afraid of the large force or that they would
+prefer not to molest them. The signs around the fortifications showed
+that the Indians had suffered severely and they would never content
+themselves until full retaliation had been made.
+
+The trappers returned to camp, where a long council was held. The
+conclusion was that the Blackfoot village was near by, and when they
+learned of the severe punishment received by the scouting party, they
+would lose no time in entering upon a campaign of revenge. As the
+Blackfeet nation included several thousand warriors, there was reason to
+fear they would overwhelm the trappers, despite their bravery and skill.
+Barricades were thrown up and the best men stationed as sentinels. One
+of them hastened to the top of an adjoining hill, which commanded an
+extensive view of the surrounding country.
+
+The sentinel had been in position but a short time when he signalled
+to his friends the approach of a large body of Indians. The hunters
+immediately began strengthening their defences, and before the redskin
+arrived, they had rendered their position almost impregnable against any
+force that could be gathered in the country.
+
+As the Blackfeet approached, the sentinel hurried down from the hill and
+joined the main body. Shortly after, the advance party of Blackfeet came
+in sight and made a reconnaissance which apprised them of the nature of
+the defences. They did not fire a shot but waited until the arrival of
+the main band.
+
+When that came in sight, it was enough to strike dismay into every
+heart. There were few if any less than a thousand warriors. Dr. Peters,
+the biographer of Carson, says:
+
+"It was a sight which few white men of the American nation have looked
+upon. Arrayed in their fantastic war costume and bedaubed with paint,
+armed with lances, bows and arrows, rifles, tomahawks, knives, etc.,
+some mounted and some on foot, they presented a wild and fearful scene
+of barbaric fancy.
+
+"Soon after their last company had reported, the frightful war dance,
+peculiar to the American savages, was enacted in sight of the trappers'
+position. The battle songs and shouts which accompanied the dance
+reached the ears of the whites with fearful distinctness. Any other
+than hearts of oak with courage of steel would have quailed before this
+terrible display of savage enmity and ferocity. This dance, to men well
+skilled in the ways of the Indian warrior, was a sure signal that the
+next day would be certain to have a fearful history for one party or the
+other and doubtless for both. The odds, most assuredly, were apparently
+greatly in favor of the savage host and against the little band of hardy
+mountaineers."
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+
+ The Morrow--Withdrawal of the Indian Army--At Fort Hall--In the
+ Blackfoot Country--The Ambush--The Trappers Decide to Withdraw--Trapping
+ in Other Localities--Carson Decides to Abandon the Business--Visits
+ Bent's Fort Where He Serves as Hunter for Eight Years.
+
+Having gone through what the red men consider the necessary
+preliminaries of such a grand campaign, the vast number of warriors
+awaited the dawn that was to witness the annihilation of the entire
+force that had dared to venture upon their hunting grounds without so
+much as asking permission.
+
+It was scarcely light when the imposing array advanced upon the
+mountaineers, who coolly awaited their approach. When the Blackfeet came
+close enough to see the fortifications thrown up by the whites, they
+were astonished. They knew from previous experience the strength of such
+means of defence and suddenly lost their eagerness to make the attack.
+
+After a full survey of the work before them, they concluded the task
+was beyond accomplishment. The magnificent force, therefore, began
+withdrawing. It was the turn of the trappers to feel disappointed. They
+had not thought of any such issue and were enraged. They shouted and
+made tantalizing gestures to the Blackfeet, in the hope of goading them
+to stand their ground, but they were too wise to do so. They retreated
+to a safe point where a council of war was held. It was not to be
+expected that after such an abrupt withdrawal, they could summon enough
+courage to make the assault.
+
+When the conference was over, the Indian army, as it may be called,
+broke into two divisions, one of which went back toward their own
+village while the other set their faces toward the Crow country.
+Uncertain whether they would not reappear when they believed there
+was hope of surprising the mountaineers, the latter maintained their
+vigilance day and night.
+
+It may have been that the red men made several reconnaissances, but, if
+so, they concluded it would be imprudent to attack the mountaineers
+who held their position and continued trapping as opportunity presented
+through the winter.
+
+After trapping in various localities, Kit Carson and several friends
+visited Fort Hall, where they joined a party in the employ of the
+Northwest Fur Company. They trapped around the head of Salmon River and
+other streams, and finally returned to Fort Hall, where the peltries
+were sold for a fair valuation. Then Carson and a few others set out to
+join a party which he knew was trapping in the Blackfoot country.
+Upon coming up with them, he was told that they had had several sharp
+skirmishes with the Indians, in one of which a trapper was severely
+wounded. The following morning, Carson and his comrades parted from the
+rest and were trapping slowly up stream, when they were fired upon by
+Blackfeet and compelled to retreat. They hurried back and succeeded
+in escaping a serious danger; but the pursuit was so close that Carson
+hastily stationed his men in ambush. A hot fire dropped several of the
+warriors and caused the others to hesitate.
+
+The halt was just long enough to allow the trappers to reload their
+pieces, when the Blackfeet made a fiercer rush than before; but with
+that pertinacious courage for which the tribe is noted, they kept up the
+fight through the rest of the day, determined to throw away no advantage
+they might gain. Had Carson chosen his position with less judgment,
+he and his command must have been overwhelmed, for nothing could have
+exceeded the daring of their assailants, who in their desperation set
+fire to the thicket in which the mountaineers had ensconced themselves;
+but the shrubbery was too green to burn well, and, after a little while,
+it died out. Then it must have been the red men concluded it was useless
+to strive further, and, learning that the main body of the trappers were
+not far off, they departed.
+
+The annoyance from these Indians was so great that it was decided
+to leave the country. While the trappers were able to hold their own
+against them, yet it was impossible to make much progress in taking
+furs, when their attention was mainly taken up in fighting the warriors,
+who varied their shooting by destroying the traps that were set for the
+beavers.
+
+The next scene of operations was the North Fork of the Missouri where
+they had been engaged only a short time when they came upon an extensive
+village of Flathead Indians. These showed their friendliness to the
+trappers by sending one of their chiefs and a number of warriors who
+helped them hunt along the different streams.
+
+The following spring Carson and a single companion set their traps
+in the vicinity of Big Snake River. This was the country of the Utah
+Indians, who were well disposed towards the whites. Thus, while furs
+were plenty, the couple were enabled to devote their whole time to
+taking them, without fear of being fired upon every time they ventured
+out of sight of camp. As a consequence, they succeeded beyond their own
+expectations, and, making their way to the nearest post, sold the stock
+for a fair sum.
+
+The peltries were scarcely disposed of, when Carson organized another
+expedition which visited the Grand River, over which they trapped until
+winter, when they returned to Brown's Hole, where Carson remained until
+spring. Then he trapped once more in the land of the Utahs and at New
+Park, taking their furs to the post where he was obliged to sell them
+for a much less sum than he had ever received before.
+
+The transaction had an important bearing on the fortunes of Kit Carson,
+for it was proof of an unpleasant truth that had been forcing itself
+for a number of months upon him: the days of remunerative trapping were
+ended.
+
+For years, the demand had been growing steadily less both in Europe and
+America. The ingenuity of the manufacturer showed itself in the make
+of cheaper substitutes, while the beavers that had been hunted so
+persistently were becoming scarce: there were few regions in which
+trapping could be pursued with any success.
+
+Nothing could be plainer, therefore, to Carson than the fact that he
+must soon give up the business and engage in something else to gain a
+livelihood. What should it be?
+
+Carson and several veteran trappers started for Bent's Fort, located on
+the Arkansas, near an immense forest of cottonwoods, known as the Big
+Timbers. Messrs. Bent and St. Vrain, the proprietors, no sooner learned
+that Carson contemplated a change of occupation, than they offered
+him the position of hunter for the fort, his duties being to keep it
+supplied with all the game that was required.
+
+Carson was more willing to accept the offer than he would have been
+under other circumstances. He agreed that the large number of men should
+never want for animal food, and, having given his promise, he kept it
+most faithfully for a period of eight years.
+
+This statement includes a great deal, for it means that his wonderful
+rifle brought down thousands of deer, antelope, elk and bisons; that he
+tramped over hundreds of leagues of wilderness; that his splendid
+health never failed him, and that his knowledge of the woods and its
+inhabitants was as full and complete as it could be.
+
+Furthermore, it is stated by Dr. Peters, that during that entire period,
+not a single impatient word passed between Carson and his employers. He
+attended to his duties with such regularity, promptness and skill that
+the only comments they could make on his work were in the nature of
+strong compliments.
+
+Inasmuch as we have claimed that Carson was the superior in every
+respect of those with whom he was associated, we must dwell for a moment
+on this fact. Let the reader ask himself how many cases he knows where
+the term of service has been so long, in which not a single unkind word
+has passed between employer and employee.
+
+His occupation as hunter was not monotonous, for where there were so
+many to provide for, difficult and dangerous work was required and the
+journeys which he often made through the long stretches of wilderness
+were sometimes attended with much personal danger.
+
+But the surrounding tribes, including the Arapahoes, Kiowas, Cheyennes,
+Comanches and others, looked upon the great hunter with affectionate
+admiration and no guest was more welcome and honored in their lodges
+than he.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+
+ Carson Visits his Old Home in Missouri--He Goes to St. Louis--Voyage up
+ the Missouri--Makes the Acquaintance of Lieutenant John C. Fremont--Is
+ engaged as a Guide for Fremont's First Expedition--The Start
+ Westward--Various Mishaps--The Emigrants--The False Alarm.
+
+Kit Carson had left his home in Missouri when only a boy and he was now
+in the prime of a vigorous young manhood. The years since he turned his
+back upon his old home had been busy and eventful ones and now, as
+is often the case with those placed as was he, he longed to visit the
+scenes of his childhood, and to meet and shake the hands of those of his
+old friends who were still among the living.
+
+In the spring of 1842, Carson went eastward with a train of wagons,
+carrying goods to the States. When the borders of Missouri were reached,
+he bade his companions goodbye and made his way back to his old home.
+His experience was touching. His parents were dead, the old building
+which would ever linger in his memory, had tumbled down and nearly every
+one whom he met was a stranger. The cheeks of the hardy mountaineer were
+wet with tears, and with a sigh, he turned his face away forever.
+
+Carson had never seen a large city, and he made his way to St. Louis,
+where he spent more than a week in sight seeing. Before the end of that
+time, the old yearning for the mountains, prairies and streams of
+the West came back to him, and he engaged passage on a steamer up the
+Missouri.
+
+On the same boat John C. Fremont was a passenger. He was two years
+younger than Carson and had been commissioned Second Lieutenant in the
+Corps of Topographical Engineers, in 1838. Four years later he projected
+a geographical survey of the entire territory of the United States from
+the Missouri River to the Pacific.
+
+Carson was attracted by the fine, manly and intellectual appearance of
+Fremont, and, learning he was in search of a skilful mountaineer, he
+introduced himself, referring in a modest fashion to his experience in
+the west and expressing the belief that he could be of service to the
+explorer.
+
+Fremont was an excellent judge of character and was favorably impressed
+with Carson from the first. The answers to the inquiries which he made
+concerning the famous guide and mountaineer, were satisfactory in the
+highest degree. He engaged Carson as his guide, agreeing to pay him a
+salary of one hundred dollars a month.
+
+The party of explorers were mainly gathered in St. Louis. It was
+composed mostly of Creole and Canadian voyageurs, Charles Preuss, a
+learned German, a young son of Colonel Benton (which statesman was the
+father in law of Fremont), several other friends, including a noted
+mountaineer named Maxwell, who was employed as the hunter of the party.
+Including the commander, the entire company numbered twenty-eight.
+
+With this party of explorers Fremont ascended the Missouri until the
+mouth of the Kansas was reached, when they disembarked and made their
+preparations for the long and dangerous journey before them. The march
+westward began June 10, 1842.
+
+The course lay along the banks of the Kansas. All the party were well
+armed and well mounted, excepting eight men, each of whom drove a
+cart, drawn by two mules. These carts contained the stores, baggage
+and instruments of the expedition. A number of spare horses were taken
+along, so as to provide against loss in that respect. In addition, they
+had four oxen intended to serve as a reserve in the event of provisions
+running short.
+
+It was the custom to arouse the camp at daybreak and turn out the
+animals to graze; breakfast followed and the march was begun. The noon
+halt lasted from one to two hours and the afternoon's march ended a
+short time before sunset. The tents were then pitched, horses hobbled
+and turned out to graze, and the evening meal prepared. When it became
+dark, all the animals were brought in and picketed, the carts arranged
+so as to serve as barricades and guard mounted.
+
+An Indian guide conducted the expedition for the first forty miles along
+the Kansas, when he departed and the responsibility was turned over to
+Carson. The pilot had guided the steamer out of the harbor and upon the
+great ocean, and henceforth the hand of Carson was to be at the helm.
+
+The soil over which they journeyed for many miles was of the most
+fertile character. Numbers of Indian farms were seen, and one could
+not but reflect on the possibilities of the future for the red man,
+who should abandon war and give his energies to the cultivation of the
+ground.
+
+Such an expedition could not go far without a taste of the trials that
+awaited them. On the second night, the four spare horses seemed to
+become disgusted with the whole enterprise, and turning their heads
+eastward started on a rapid gallop for the States. Their loss was too
+serious to be borne, and a number of men were dispatched in pursuit.
+The chase was a long one and the animals were not recovered for several
+hours. One of the men lost his way and was forced to spend the night on
+the open prairie. At midnight it began to rain, and then the exceedingly
+unpleasant discovery was made that the tents on which the explorers
+relied for protection and shelter were so thin that they were drenched
+as if the water came through a sieve.
+
+The morning, however, brought clear weather and bright sunlight, and
+all were in high spirits. The scenery for a time was of a pleasing and
+picturesque character, and they pushed contentedly forward, until they
+arrived at the ford of the Kansas, one hundred miles from the point
+where it emptied into the Missouri.
+
+The stream was found so swollen from recent rains that it could not be
+forded. Accordingly several of the mounted men forced their animals into
+the stream and swam them across to serve as guides for the rest. They
+succeeded quite well, excepting the oxen, which, after floundering
+awhile, landed on the same side from which they started. The following
+morning they succeeded in crossing.
+
+Among the useful articles with which Fremont had provided himself, was
+an India rubber boat, twenty feet long and five feet wide. This was very
+buoyant and the carts and baggage were carried over piecemeal in it,
+with the exception of the last two carts. Laden with these the boat
+left the shore but had not gone far when the man at the helm, who was
+exceedingly nervous, managed to capsize the craft, with all its precious
+cargo. The hunters were so dismayed over the prospect of losing their
+stores that nearly all plunged into the stream and made frantic efforts
+to save what they could. Several did not stop to remember that they
+could not swim, so that the principal efforts of some of the others were
+directed to saving them.
+
+Most of the goods were recovered, but nearly all the sugar dissolved
+and every grain of coffee was lost. It would be hard to imagine any
+deprivation greater than that to which this misfortune condemned the
+explorers. Carson and one of the others made such strenuous efforts in
+the water that they were ill the next day, and Fremont remained in camp
+for twenty-four hours with a view of giving them time to recruit.
+
+The journey westward progressed without any special incident. A large
+party of emigrants on their way to Oregon were several weeks in advance
+of the explorers. Bad fortune seemed to have followed them from the
+start, and numerous freshly made graves were seen. One of the emigrants
+who had been peculiarly unfortunate, came into camp with a hunter on his
+way home. He took charge of the letters which the explorers desired to
+send to their families.
+
+The party soon reached the Pawnee country where they were forced to
+unusual vigilance, for those Indians have long been noted as most
+persistent horse thieves. Game was abundant. Large flocks of wild
+turkeys were found roosting in the trees along the streams; elk,
+antelope and deer were plentiful, and as for bisons, they were beyond
+all computation.
+
+One day a member of the company happened to be riding at the rear
+galloped up in hot haste, shouting, "Indians!" He declared that he had
+seen them distinctly and counted twenty-seven. An immediate halt was
+called, and Carson, leaping on one of the fleetest horses, crossed the
+river and galloped over the prairie.
+
+"Mounted on a fine horse without a saddle," says Fremont, "and scouring,
+bareheaded, over the prairies, Kit was one of the finest pictures of
+a horseman I have ever seen. He soon returned quite leisurely, and
+informed them that the party of twenty-seven Indians had resolved itself
+into a herd of six elk who, having discovered us, had scampered off at
+full speed."
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+
+ On the Platte--A False Alarm--The Cheyennes--Fremont's Account of his
+ Buffalo Hunt--Division of the Party--Fremont's Journey up the South
+ Fork--The Band of Indians--Arrival at St. Vrain's Fort--The Journey to
+ Fort Laramie.
+
+Fremont and his party, after traveling something over three hundred
+miles from the mouth of the Kansas reached the Platte river, where they
+encamped in a charming place near Grand Island. The country was most
+beautiful, though they suffered somewhat from the violent storms which
+frequently broke over them.
+
+The noon halt was made and all were lounging about the camp, when one
+of the men on guard called an alarm. Everybody sprang to his feet and
+grasped his rifle, expecting an attack from Indians. A strange wild
+looking company were seen approaching, but, as they came closer, they
+were discovered to be white men. They were a striking sight, numbering
+fourteen, in the most ragged and woebegone condition imaginable. They
+had been on a trapping expedition, but having met with nothing but
+disasters from the beginning, were now straggling back to St. Louis on
+foot.
+
+The explorers proceeded at a leisurely pace that day and having gone
+into camp, observed three Indians drawing near, one of whom was a boy
+about a dozen years of age. They were Cheyennes that had been out
+among the Pawnees to steal horses, but having met with no success, were
+returning home. Catching sight of the white men, they unhesitatingly
+entered camp, confident of being treated well, as of course proved to be
+the case. After supper one of the warriors drew a rude but correct map
+of the country around them, and gave it to Fremont.
+
+On the first of July, while riding over a delightful prairie country,
+on the right bank of the river, a herd of buffaloes, numbering nearly
+a thousand, came up from the water and began slowly crossing the plain,
+cropping the grass as they went. As the prairie was three miles broad
+only, a fine opportunity was given the hunters to charge before the
+animals could scatter among the hills.
+
+The fleetest horses were quickly saddled and Carson, Fremont, and
+Maxwell prepared for the chase. By that time the herd was a half mile
+away and they did not notice the hunters until they were within three
+hundred yards. Then followed an agitation of the animals, quickly
+followed by their precipitate flight. The horses dashed after them. A
+crowd of bulls brought up the rear, they having stationed themselves
+there to defend the females. Every once in a while they would whirl
+about and stare, snorting at the horsemen, as if they had made up their
+minds to fight; but when the hunters came nigher, they turned about and
+plunged after the herd. Describing the exciting incident, Fremont wrote;
+
+"In a few moments, during which we had been quickening our pace, we were
+going over the ground like a hurricane. When at about thirty yards we
+gave the usual shout and broke into the herd. We entered on the side,
+the mass giving away in every direction in their heedless course. Many
+of the bulls, less fleet than the cows, paying no heed to the ground,
+and occupied solely with the hunters, were precipitated to the earth
+with great force, rolling over and over with the violence of the shock,
+and hardly distinguishable in the dust. We separated, on entering, each
+singling out his game.
+
+"My horse was a trained hunter, famous in the west under the name of
+Proveau, and with his eyes flashing and the foam flying from his mouth,
+he sprang on after the cow like a tiger. In a few moments he brought me
+alongside of her. Rising in the stirrups, I fired, at the distance of
+a yard, the ball entering at the termination of the long hair, passing
+near the heart. She fell headlong at the report of the gun. Checking my
+horse, I looked around for my companions.
+
+"At a little distance Kit was on the ground engaged in tying his horse
+to the horns of a cow, which he was preparing to cut up. Among the
+scattered band at some distance, I caught a glimpse of Maxwell. While
+I was looking, a light wreath of white smoke curled away from his gun,
+from which I was too far to hear the report. Nearer, and between me and
+the hills, toward which they were directing their course, was the body
+of the herd. Giving my horse the rein, we dashed after them. A thick
+cloud of dust hung upon their rear, which filled my mouth and eyes and
+nearly smothered me. In the midst of this I could see nothing, and
+the buffaloes were not distinguishable until within thirty feet. They
+crowded together more densely still, as I came upon them, and rushed
+along in such a compact body that I could not obtain an entrance, the
+horse almost leaping upon them.
+
+"In a few moments the mass divided to the right and left, the horns
+clattering with a noise heard above everything else, and my horse darted
+into the opening. Five or six bulls charged on us as we dashed along the
+line, but were left far behind. Singling out a cow, I gave her my fire
+but struck too high. She gave a tremendous leap and scoured on swifter
+than before. I reined up my horse, and the band swept on like a torrent,
+and left the place quiet and clear. Our chase had led us into dangerous
+ground. A prairie dog village, so thickly settled that there were three
+or four holes in twenty yards square, occupied the whole bottom for
+nearly two miles in length."
+
+The stirring buffalo hunt ended, the company advanced over the prairie
+for more than twenty miles, and encamped on the banks of a stream, where
+they enjoyed a fine feast on choice bison steaks. While they were thus
+employed, the wolves were attracted thither by the smell of broiling
+meat and prowled around camp, licking their chops, impatient for the
+time when they would be permitted to gorge themselves upon what should
+be left.
+
+For several days there was little variation in the experience of the
+explorers, and no special incident took place. At the junction of the
+north and south fork of the Platte, Fremont, who wished to explore the
+south branch and to secure some astronomical observations, set out with
+nine men intending to advance to St. Vrain's fort, where he was hopeful
+of obtaining some mules. The rest of the party followed the north fork
+to fort Laramie, where it was agreed they would wait for the others to
+join them.
+
+Fremont's experience in going up the south branch was in strong contrast
+to the pleasant scenes of the previous. It was midsummer and the weather
+was suffocatingly hot. Fierce storms of wind and gusts of rain swept
+the country, while the bisons were everywhere. They literally numbered
+hundreds of thousands, and, look in whatsoever direction the men chose,
+they were sure to see the huge creatures cropping the grass or lumbering
+across the prairie.
+
+On the fourth day a band of three hundred mounted Indians suddenly
+appeared. The chief proved to be an old acquaintance of Maxwell and
+showed genuine pleasure in meeting him. They shook hands and the sachem
+conducted the little party to his village, where they received most
+hospitable treatment.
+
+Resuming their journey, they encamped in a cottonwood grove in a chilly
+drizzling rain. The next morning dawned bright and clear, and they
+caught their first glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. They gazed long on
+the snowy peaks outlined in the far distance like fleecy clouds against
+the blue sky.
+
+St. Vrain's Fort was reached on the tenth day. They were made welcome
+by Mr. St. Vrain, who was much interested in the expedition westward and
+did everything he could to assist Lieutenant Fremont in the enterprise.
+The needed horses and mules were secured, and three men were hired to
+accompany them across the country to Fort Laramie.
+
+This station was a hundred and twenty-five miles distant, and the new
+hands engaged, as a matter of course, were so familiar with it, that
+there was no possibility of going astray. The journey was resumed on
+the second day after reaching the fort, and without meeting with any
+particular incident they arrived at their destination, three days later.
+
+Fort Laramie, at that time, was one of the most important posts of the
+far west. It had large bastions at the corners, and its high walls were
+whitewashed and picketed.
+
+Several lodges of Sioux Indians were pitched close by, and the division
+under charge of Kit Carson having arrived several days before, had also
+gone into camp with the appearance of the commander of the expedition.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX
+
+
+ Alarming News--Fremont Presses Forward and is Not Molested--Arrival at
+ South Pass--Fremont's Account of the Ascent of the Highest Peak of
+ the Rocky Mountains--The Return to Fort Laramie--Carson Starts for New
+ Mexico--End of Fremont's First Exploring Expedition.
+
+Alarming news awaited Fremont at Fort Laramie. A number of trappers
+informed them that the Sioux, through whose country their route lay,
+were excited to exasperation by several recent conflicts with hunters
+in which the red men were worsted. The Sioux warriors were gathered in
+large numbers and would attack any white men who ventured beyond the
+fort. They had already massacred a number and it was impossible for
+Fremont and his party to get through without a battle in which they were
+likely to be overwhelmed.
+
+Carson looked upon the situation as so serious that he made his will and
+left it at the fort. When consulted by Fremont, he said he considered
+the prospect full of peril, but he was ready to go the moment required.
+The commander was confident the danger was greatly exaggerated, and,
+without much misgiving, he resumed his journey westward, following up
+the north fork of the Platte. Game and water were found, and, at the end
+of three weeks, they arrived at the South Pass of the Rocky Mountains
+without having exchanged a shot with a red man on the way.
+
+They had now reached their destination and Lieutenant Fremont at once
+began his observations. When they were concluded he undertook the
+ascent of the highest mountain peak. The situation was anything but
+encouraging: they were in the country of the hostile Blackfeet, some of
+whom were observed hovering in the vicinity; men and animals were worn
+out and it was hard to procure game. But the ascent was begun, Fremont
+taking fourteen men with him. Those who were left in camp erected a rude
+but strong fort, behind which they were confident they could sustain
+themselves against any force the Indians were likely to muster.
+
+The ascent of the mountain was laborious in the extreme. Kit Carson
+climbed to one of the loftiest peaks from which he gained a full view of
+the very highest elevation. The next day Fremont sent Carson and several
+of the men back. He unquestionably intended that no one should share
+with him the honor of climbing the most elevated point. This exploit is
+worthy of description at the hands of the Pathfinder himself.
+
+"At intervals we reached places where a number of springs gushed from
+the rocks, and about 1,800 feet above the lakes came to the snow line.
+From this point our progress was uninterrupted climbing. Hitherto, I had
+worn a pair of thick moccasins, with soles of parfleche but here I put
+on a light thin pair, which I had brought for the purpose, as now the
+use of our toes became necessary to a further advance. I availed myself
+of a sort of comb of the mountain, which stood against the wall like
+a buttress, and which the wind and solar radiation, joined to the
+steepness of the smooth rock, had kept almost entirely free from snow.
+Up this I made my way rapidly. Our cautious method of advancing in
+the outset had spared my strength; and, with the exception of a slight
+disposition to headache, I felt no remains of yesterday's illness. In a
+few minutes we reached a point where the buttress was overhanging, and
+there was no other way of surmounting the difficulty than by passing
+around one side of it, which was the face of a vertical precipice of
+several hundred feet."
+
+Parfleche is the name given to buffalo hide. The Indian women prepare it
+by scraping and drying. It is exceedingly tough and hard, and receives
+its name from the circumstance that it cannot be pierced by arrows or
+spears.
+
+The entire dress of Fremont and his party, on their ascent to the "top
+of America," consisted of a blue flannel shirt, free and open at the
+neck, the collar turning down over a black silk handkerchief tied
+loosely, blue cloth pantaloons, a slouched broad brimmed hat, and
+moccasins as above described. It was well adapted to climbing, quite
+light, and at the same time warm, and every way comfortable.
+
+"Putting hands and feet in the crevices between the blocks, I succeeded
+in getting over it, and when I reached the top, found my companions in a
+small valley below. Descending to them, we continued climbing, and in a
+short time reached the crest. I sprang upon the summit and another step
+would have precipitated me into an immense snow field five hundred feet
+below. To the edge of this field was a sheer icy precipice; and then,
+with a gradual fall, the field sloped off for about a mile, until it
+struck the foot of another lower ridge. I stood on a narrow crest about
+three feet in width, with an inclination of about 20 degrees N. 51
+degrees E. As soon as I had gratified the first feelings of curiosity I
+descended, and each man ascended in turn, for I would only allow one
+at a time to mount the unstable and precarious slab, which it seemed a
+breath would hurl into the abyss below. We mounted the barometer in
+the snow of the summit, and, fixing a ramrod in a crevice, unfurled the
+national flag, to wave in the breeze, where never flag waved before.
+During our morning's ascent, we met no sign of animal life, except a
+small bird having the appearance of a sparrow. A stillness the most
+profound, and a terrible solitude forced themselves constantly on the
+mind as the great features of the place. Here, on the summit, where
+the stillness was absolute, unbroken by any sound, and the solitude
+complete, we thought ourselves beyond the region of animated life; but
+while we were sitting on the rock, a solitary bee (bombus terrestris,
+the humble bee) came winging his flight from the eastern valley, and lit
+on the knee of one of the men.
+
+"Around us the whole scene had one main striking feature, which was that
+of terrible convulsion. Parallel to its length, the ridge was split
+into chasms and fissures, between which rose the thin, lofty walls,
+terminated with slender minarets and columns, which are correctly
+represented in the view from the camp on Island Lake. According to the
+barometer, the little crest of the wall on which we stood was three
+thousand five hundred and seventy feet above that place, and two
+thousand seven hundred and eighty feet above the little lakes at the
+bottom, immediately at our feet.
+
+"Our camp at the Two Hills (an astronomical station) bore south 30 east,
+which, with a bearing afterward obtained from a fixed position, enabled
+us to locate the peak. The bearing of the Trois Tetons was north 50
+degrees west, and the direction of the central ridge of the Wind River
+Mountains south 39 degrees east. The summit rock was gneiss. Sienite
+and feldspar succeeded in our descent to the snow line, where we found
+a felspathic granite. I had remarked that the noise produced by the
+explosion of our pistols had the usual degree of loudness, but was not
+in the least prolonged, expiring almost instantaneously. Having now made
+what observations our means afforded, we proceeded to descend. We had
+accomplished an object of laudable ambition, and beyond the strict
+order of our instructions. We had climbed the loftiest peak of the Rocky
+Mountains and looked down upon the snow a thousand feet below, and,
+standing where human foot had never stood before, felt the exultation of
+first explorers. It was about two o'clock when we left the summit; and
+when we reached the bottom the sun had already sunk behind the wall, and
+the day was drawing to a close. It would have been pleasant to linger
+here and on the summit longer; but we hurried away as rapidly as the
+ground would permit, for it was an object to regain our party as soon as
+possible, not knowing what accident the next hour might bring forth."
+
+This mountain which bears the name of Fremont's Peak, in honor of the
+great Pathfinder, was found to be 13,570 feet above the Gulf of Mexico.
+
+The object of the expedition was accomplished and preparations were made
+for the return to the states. No accident worth the mention had befallen
+the explorers, and the Blackfeet, from whom so much was feared, did not
+molest them. It may have been that when their scouts reconnoitred the
+camp, they found the barricades so strong and the garrison so watchful
+that they decided it would be too costly to make an attack upon them.
+It is not impossible that some one or more of them recognized the daring
+mountaineer who more than once years before had given their warriors
+such severe defeat and punishment. If such was the truth, we cannot but
+respect the discretion they showed.
+
+Fort Laramie was reached in the month of September 1842. There as Kit
+Carson's labors were ended, he bade his commander and friends goodbye
+and started for New Mexico. Fremont and his men reached the states in
+safety and thus ended his first exploring expedition.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+
+ Carson Starts for the States--The Encampment of Captain Cook and his
+ Dragoons--Carson Undertakes a Delicate and Dangerous Mission--The
+ Perilous Journey--Return of Carson and the Mexican Boy--Encounter with
+ Four Utah Indians--Arrival at Bent's Fort.
+
+Early in the year 1843, Kit Carson married his second wife and shortly
+after agreed to accompany an expedition of Bent & St. Vrain's wagons to
+the States. When part way across the plains, they struck the old Santa
+Fe trail and came upon an encampment of Captain Cook with four companies
+of United States Dragoons.
+
+They were engaged in escorting a train of Mexican wagons to the boundary
+line between New Mexico and the United States. The train was a very
+valuable one and an escort of a hundred men were hired to accompany it
+through the Indian country.
+
+The situation of this train was an alarming one. It was the duty of
+Captain Cook and his soldiers to guard it as far as the fording of the
+Arkansas, at that time the boundary line between the two countries.
+There was good reason for believing that a strong band of Texan rangers
+were waiting beyond, with the intention of attacking and plundering the
+train. Indeed the Mexican who had it in charge had received information
+that left no possible doubt of the fact.
+
+His face lighted up when he recognized Kit Carson. Hardly waiting until
+they had greeted each other, he offered him a liberal reward if he
+would ride post haste to Santa Fe and deliver a letter to the Governor,
+containing an urgent request to send a strong force to escort the train
+thither.
+
+Carson unhesitatingly accepted the offer and with his usual promptness
+started almost immediately on his delicate and dangerous business. The
+journey was one of several hundred miles through a country swarming with
+Indians, and all the skill, cunning and vigilance of the great scout
+would be required to succeed. But he never faltered in the face of
+peril.
+
+A veteran mountaineer agreed to keep him company, but, when Bent's Fort
+was reached he refused to go further, and Carson, as he had often done
+before in critical situations, went on alone.
+
+The news which he heard at the fort was of a startling nature. The Utah
+Indians were hostile and his long journey led him directly through their
+country. He could not censure his friend for declining to go further,
+nor could he blame others whom he asked to accompany him, when they
+shook their heads. Mr. Bent understood the peculiar danger in which Kit
+would be placed, and though he was splendidly mounted, he loaned him a
+magnificent steed which he led, ready to mount whenever the necessity
+should arise for doing so.
+
+That journey was one of the most remarkable of the many made by Kit
+Carson. It would have been less so, had he possessed a companion of
+experience, for they could have counselled together, and one would have
+kept watch while the other slept. As it was, Carson was compelled to
+scan every portion of the plain before him, on the constant lookout for
+Indians, who would have spared no effort to circumvent and slay him, had
+they known of his presence in their country. He was so placed, indeed,
+that only by the most consummate skill could he hope to run the
+continuous gauntlet, hundreds of miles in length.
+
+He had gone but a short distance when he detected the trails of his
+enemies, showing they were numerous and liable to be encountered at
+any moment. When night came, he picketed his horses and lay down on the
+prairie or in some grove, ready to leap to his feet, bound upon one of
+his steeds and gallop away on a dead run. Where the hunter has no friend
+to mount guard, he is often compelled to depend upon his horses, who
+frequently prove the best kind of sentinels. They are quick to detect
+the approach of strangers, and a slight neigh or stamp of the foot is
+enough to give the saving warning.
+
+A large portion of the country over which he rode, was a treeless plain
+and the keen blue eyes of the matchless mountaineer were kept on a
+continual strain. A moving speck in the distant horizon, the faint
+column of thin smoke rising from the far off grove, or a faint yellow
+dust against the blue sky, could only mean one thing--the presence of
+enemies, for he was in a region which contained not a single friend.
+
+One afternoon Carson discovered an Indian village directly ahead of him
+and on the trail which he was following. He instantly withdrew beyond
+sight of any who might be on guard, and, hunting a sparse grove of
+timber, kept within it until dark; then he made a long circuit, and came
+back to the trail far beyond it. He travelled a long distance that night
+and by daylight was in no danger of detection.
+
+By using such extreme caution and watchfulness, he succeeded in passing
+the entire distance without exchanging a hostile shot with anyone. He
+reached Taos, where he waited as agreed upon, until his message could
+be sent to the Governor at Santa Fe. While in Taos he learned that
+one hundred men had been sent out to meet the caravan and the Governor
+himself was about ready to follow with six hundred more. It may be
+stated in this place that the smaller company, while looking for the
+train was attacked by the Texan rangers and with a single exception
+every man was killed; but venturing into American territory, the rangers
+were disarmed by Captain Cook and his dragoons, and the wealthy wagon
+train, with its valuable cargo reached its destination in safety.
+
+Having accomplished his mission, Carson set out on his return to Bent's
+Fort. This time he took a Mexican boy with him. The mountaineer had
+become strongly attached to the youth, who was a noble, high minded lad,
+the fit companion of the prince among plainsmen.
+
+Two days out from Taos, both were surprised to find themselves
+confronted by four Utah Indians on the war path. They appeared
+so suddenly, that the two friends were given little time to make
+preparation; but, as some distance separated the parties, Kit and the
+lad hastily consulted over what was best to do.
+
+"It is you whom they are seeking," said the youth, "and your life is
+worth a great deal more than mine; you have a swift horse; mount him
+and dash off; perhaps they will spare me, but you cannot help me by
+staying."
+
+"Your offer is a kind one," said Carson much touched by the words of his
+young friend; "but nothing in the world would induce me to leave you.
+We will stick together and if we must die, why let's each take a warrior
+with us."
+
+The leading warrior sauntered toward the couple, while they were hastily
+consulting together, after the manner of one who felt he was master of
+the situation. A broad grin stretched across his painted face, as he
+extended one hand to salute Carson, while he reached for his rifle with
+the other. Just as his fingers were closing around the weapon of the
+mountaineer, the latter struck him a violent blow in the face, which
+sent him staggering several paces backward. The other Utahs instantly
+ran forward to the help of their comrade.
+
+When they were within a few rods, Carson brought his gun to his shoulder
+and peremptorily ordered them to halt. They hesitated, as if uncertain
+what to do, when he told them that if they advanced another step or made
+any hostile demonstration, both he and his companion would fire. They
+would be sure of hitting two of the warriors, when it would become
+something like an even fight, with two on each side, and with the
+prospect that the red men might suffer still further.
+
+But the Indians were not to be bluffed in such an easy fashion. They
+brandished their guns, shook powder in the pans and talked boastingly of
+what they meant to do. They were double the number of their enemies and
+they would teach them how brave Utah warriors were.
+
+Neither Carson nor the lad was disturbed by these demonstrations, which
+meant to intimidate them. The mountaineer whispered to his brave young
+companion to keep on his guard against any sudden rush or demonstration.
+But the lad scarcely needed the warning. He was as alert and vigilant
+as his friend. Had the red men attempted anything hostile, the two would
+have fired instantly and then drawn their pistols and been ready for the
+others.
+
+The Utahs finally saw it was useless to attempt to bluff the man and
+boy, and they rode away without offering them the least harm. Carson and
+his young companion instantly resumed their journey, still watchful
+and alert; but they reached Bent's Fort without molestation, and the
+dangerous venture was over.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+
+ Kit Carson Hears Surprising News--He Visits Fremont--Is Re-engaged as
+ Guide--Fremont's Account of his Visit to Salt Lake.
+
+Kit Carson was astonished on reaching Bent's Fort to learn that
+Lieutenant Fremont had gone by on his second exploring expedition but a
+few days before. Carson felt a strong attachment for his old leader
+and galloped nearly a hundred miles to overtake him. Fremont gave
+the mountaineer most cordial greeting and insisted so strongly on his
+accompanying him that Carson could not refuse.
+
+The object of Fremont's second exploration was to connect the survey of
+the previous year with those of Commander Wilkes on the Pacific coast.
+The first objective point was the Great Salt Lake of Utah, of which very
+little was known at that time.
+
+Carson was sent back to the fort to procure a number of mules. He did as
+directed and rejoined Fremont at St. Vrain's Fort. The region traversed
+by these explorers is so well known today that it is hard to realize
+what a terra incognita it was but a short time since. Perhaps it will
+be most instructive at this point to quote the words of the great
+Pathfinder himself. The party arrived on the 21st of August on the
+Bear River, one of the principal tributaries of Great Salt Lake. The
+narrative of Fremont proceeds:
+
+"We were now entering a region, which for us possessed a strange and
+extraordinary interest. We were upon the waters of the famous lake which
+forms a salient point among the remarkable geographical features of the
+country, and around which the vague and superstitious accounts of
+the trappers had thrown a delightful obscurity, which we anticipated
+pleasure in dispelling, but which, in the meantime, left a crowded field
+for the exercise of our imagination.
+
+"In our occasional conversations with the few old hunters who had
+visited the region, it had been a subject of frequent speculation; and
+the wonders which they related were not the less agreeable because they
+were highly exaggerated and impossible.
+
+"Hitherto this lake had been seen only by trappers, who were wandering
+through the country in search of new beaver streams, caring very little
+for geography; its islands had never been visited; and none were to
+be found who had entirely made the circuit of its shores, and no
+instrumental observations, or geographical survey of any description,
+had ever been made anywhere in the neighboring region. It was generally
+supposed that it had no visible outlet; but, among the trappers,
+including those in my own camp, were many who believed that somewhere
+on its surface was a terrible whirlpool, through which its waters found
+their way to the ocean by some subterranean communication. All these
+things had been made a frequent subject of discussion in our desultory
+conversations around the fires at night; and my own mind had become
+tolerably well filled with their indefinite pictures, and insensibly
+colored with their romantic descriptions, which, in the pleasure
+of excitement, I was well disposed to believe, and half expected to
+realize.
+
+"In about six miles' travel from our encampment we reached one of the
+points in our journey to which we had always looked forward with great
+interest--the famous Beer Springs, which, on account of the effervescing
+gas and acid taste, had received their name from the voyageurs and
+trappers of the country, who, in the midst of their rude and hard lives,
+are fond of finding some fancied resemblance to the luxuries they rarely
+have the good fortune to enjoy.
+
+"Although somewhat disappointed in the expectations which various
+descriptions had led me to form of unusual beauty of situation and
+scenery, I found it altogether a place of very great interest; and a
+traveller for the first time in a volcanic region remains in a constant
+excitement, and at every step is arrested by something remarkable and
+new. There is a confusion of interesting objects gathered together in
+a small space. Around the place of encampment the Beer Springs were
+numerous but, as far as we could ascertain, were entirely confined to
+that locality in the bottom. In the bed of the river in front, for
+a space of several hundred yards, they were very abundant; the
+effervescing gas rising up and agitating the water in countless bubbling
+columns. In the vicinity round about were numerous springs of an
+entirely different and equally marked mineral character. In a rather
+picturesque spot, about 1,300 yards below our encampment and immediately
+on the river bank, is the most remarkable spring of the place. In an
+opening on the rock, a white column of scattered water is thrown up, in
+form, like a jet d'eau, to a variable height of about three feet, and,
+though it is maintained in a constant supply, its greatest height is
+attained only at regular intervals, according to the action of the force
+below. It is accompanied by a subterranean noise, which, together with
+the motion of the water, makes very much the impression of a steamboat
+in motion; and, without knowing that it had been already previously so
+called, we gave to it the name of the Steamboat Spring. The rock through
+which it is forced is slightly raised in a convex manner, and gathered
+at the opening into an urn mouthed form, and is evidently formed by
+continued deposition from the water, and colored bright red by oxide of
+iron.
+
+"It is a hot spring, and the water has a pungent, disagreeable metallic
+taste, leaving a burning effect on the tongue. Within perhaps two yards
+of the jet d'eau, is a small hole of about an inch in diameter, through
+which, at regular intervals, escapes a blast of hot air with a light
+wreath of smoke, accompanied by a regular noise.
+
+"As they approached the lake, they passed over a country of bold and
+striking scenery, and through several 'gates,' as they called certain
+narrow valleys. The 'standing rock' is a huge column, occupying the
+centre of one of these passes. It fell from a height of perhaps 3,000
+feet, and happened to remain in its present upright position.
+
+"At last, on the 6th of September, the object for which their eyes had
+long been straining was brought to view.
+
+"September 6.--This time we reached the butte without any difficulty;
+and ascending to the summit, immediately at our feet beheld the object
+of our anxious search, the waters of the Inland Sea, stretching in still
+and solitary grandeur, far beyond the limit of our vision. It was one of
+the great points of the exploration; and as we looked eagerly over the
+lake in the first emotions of excited pleasure, I am doubtful if the
+followers of Balboa felt more enthusiasm when, from the heights of
+the Andes, they saw for the first time the great Western Ocean. It was
+certainly a magnificent object, and a noble terminus to this part of our
+expedition; and to travellers so long shut up among mountain ranges,
+a sudden view over the expanse of silent waters had in it something
+sublime. Several large islands raised their high rocky heads out of
+the waves; but whether or not they were timbered was still left to our
+imagination, as the distance was too great to determine if the dark hues
+upon them were woodland or naked rock. During the day the clouds had
+been gathering black over the mountains to the westward, and while we
+were looking, a storm burst down with sudden fury upon the lake, and
+entirely hid the islands from our view.
+
+"On the edge of the stream a favorable spot was selected in a grove,
+and felling the timber, we made a strong corral, or horse pen, for the
+animals, and a little fort for the people who were to remain. We were
+now probably in the country of the Utah Indians, though none reside upon
+the lake. The India rubber boat was repaired with prepared cloth and
+gum, and filled with air, in readiness for the next day.
+
+"The provisions which Carson had brought with him being now exhausted,
+and our stock reduced to a small quantity of roots, I determined to
+retain with me only a sufficient number of men for the execution of our
+design; and accordingly seven were sent back to Fort Hall, under the
+guidance of Francois Lajeunesse, who, having been for many years a
+trapper in the country, was an experienced mountaineer.
+
+"We formed now but a small family. With Mr. Preuss and myself,
+Carson, Bernier, and Basil Lajeunesse had been selected for the boat
+expedition--the first ever attempted on this interior sea; and Badau,
+with Derosier, and Jacob (the colored man), were to be left in charge
+of the camp. We were favored with most delightful weather. Tonight
+there was a brilliant sunset of golden orange and green, which left the
+western sky clear and beautifully pure; but clouds in the east made me
+lose an occulation. The summer frogs were singing around us, and the
+evening was very pleasant, with a temperature of 60 degrees--a night
+of a more southern autumn. For our supper, we had yampak, the most
+agreeably flavored of the roots, seasoned by a small fat duck, which
+had come in the way of Jacob's rifle. Around our fire tonight were
+many speculations on what tomorrow would bring forth; and in our busy
+conjectures we fancied that we should find every one of the large
+islands a tangled wilderness of trees and shrubbery, teeming with game
+of every description that the neighboring region afforded, and which the
+foot of a white man or Indian had never violated. Frequently, during the
+day, clouds had rested on the summits of their lofty mountains, and we
+believed that we should find clear streams and springs of fresh water;
+and we indulged in anticipations of the luxurious repasts with which
+we were to indemnify ourselves for past privations. Neither, in our
+discussions, were the whirlpool and other mysterious dangers forgotten,
+which Indian and hunter's stories attributed to this unexplored lake.
+The men had discovered that, instead of being strongly sewed, (like that
+of the preceding year, which had so triumphantly rode the canons of the
+Upper Great Platte), our present boat was only pasted together in a very
+insecure manner, the maker having been allowed so little time in the
+construction that he was obliged to crowd the labor of two months into
+several days. The insecurity of the boat was sensibly felt by us; and
+mingled with the enthusiasm and excitement that we all felt at the
+prospect of an undertaking which had never before been accomplished was
+a certain impression of danger, sufficient to give a serious character
+to our conversation. The momentary view which had been had of the lake
+the day before, its great extent and rugged islands, dimly seen
+amidst the dark waters in the obscurity of the sudden storm, were well
+calculated to heighten the idea of undefined danger with which the lake
+was generally associated."
+
+"September 8.--A calm, clear day, with a sunrise temperature of 41
+degrees. In view of our present enterprise, a part of the equipment of
+the boat had been made to consist of three airtight bags, about three
+feet long, and capable each of containing five gallons. These had been
+filled with water the night before, and were now placed in the boat,
+with our blankets and instruments, consisting of a sextant, telescope,
+spyglass, thermometer, and barometer.
+
+"In the course of the morning we discovered that two of the cylinders
+leaked so much as to require one man constantly at the bellows, to keep
+them sufficiently full of air to support the boat. Although we had made
+a very early start, we loitered so much on the way--stopping every now
+and then, and floating silently along, to get a shot at a goose or a
+duck--that it was late in the day when he reached the outlet. The river
+here divided into several branches, filled with fluvials, and so very
+shallow that it was with difficulty we could get the boat along, being
+obliged to get out and wade. We encamped on a low point among rushes and
+young willows, where there was a quantity of driftwood, which served for
+our fires. The evening was mild and clear; we made a pleasant bed of
+the young willows; and geese and ducks enough had been killed for an
+abundant supper at night, and for breakfast next morning. The stillness
+of the night was enlivened by millions of waterfowl.
+
+"September. 9.--The day was clear and calm; the thermometer at
+sunrise at 49 degrees. As is usual with the trappers on the eve of any
+enterprise, our people had made dreams, and theirs happened to be a bad
+one--one which always preceded evil--and consequently they looked very
+gloomy this morning; but we hurried through our breakfast, in order to
+make an early start, and have all the day before us for our adventure.
+The channel in a short distance became so shallow that our navigation
+was at an end, being merely a sheet of soft mud, with a few inches of
+water, and sometimes none at all, forming the low water shore of the
+lake. All this place was absolutely covered with flocks of screaming
+plover. We took off our clothes, and, getting overboard, commenced
+dragging the boat--making, by this operation, a very curious trail, and
+a very disagreeable smell in stirring up the mud, as we sank above the
+knee at every step. The water here was still fresh, with only an insipid
+and disagreeable taste, probably derived from the bed of fetid mud.
+After proceeding in this way about a mile, we came to a small black
+ridge on the bottom, beyond which the water became suddenly salt,
+beginning gradually to deepen, and the bottom was sandy and firm. It was
+a remarkable division, separating the fresh water of the rivers from the
+briny water of the lake, which was entirely saturated with common salt.
+Pushing our little vessel across the narrow boundary, we sprang on
+board, and at length were afloat on the waters of the unknown sea.
+
+"We did not steer for the mountainous islands, but directed our course
+towards a lower one, which it had been decided we should first visit,
+the summit of which was formed like the crater at the upper end of Bear
+River Valley. So long as we could touch the bottom with our paddles,
+we were very gay; but gradually, as the water deepened, we became more
+still in our frail bateau of gum cloth distended with air, and with
+pasted seams. Although the day was very calm, there was a considerable
+swell on the lake; and there were white patches of foam on the surface,
+which were slowly moving to the southward, indicating the set of
+a current in that direction, and recalling the recollection of the
+whirlpool stories. The water continued to deepen as we advanced; the
+lake becoming almost transparently clear, of an extremely beautiful
+bright green color; and the spray which was thrown into the boat and
+over our clothes, was directly converted into a crust of common salt,
+which covered also our hands and arms. 'Captain,' said Carson, who for
+sometime had been looking suspiciously at some whitening appearances
+outside the nearest islands, 'what are those yonder?--won't you just
+take a look with the glass?' We ceased paddling for a moment, and found
+them to be the caps of the waves that were beginning to break under the
+force of a strong breeze that was coming up the lake. The form of the
+boat seemed to be an admirable one, and it rode on the waves like
+a water bird; but, at the same time, it was extremely slow in its
+progress. When we were a little more than half way across the reach,
+two of the divisions between the cylinders gave way, and it required the
+constant use of the bellows to keep in a sufficient quantity of air. For
+a long time we scarcely seemed to approach our island, but gradually
+we worked across the rougher sea of the open channel, into the smoother
+water under the lee of the island, and began to discover that what we
+took for a long row of pelicans, ranged on the beach, were only low
+cliffs whitened with salt by the spray of the waves; and about noon we
+reached the shore, the transparency of the water enabling us to see the
+bottom at a considerable depth.
+
+"The cliffs and masses of rock along the shore were whitened by an
+incrustation of salt where the waves dashed up against them; and the
+evaporating water, which had been left in holes and hollows on the
+surface of the rocks, was covered with a crust of salt about one eighth
+of an inch in thickness.
+
+"Carrying with us the barometer and other instruments, in the afternoon
+we ascended to the highest point of the island--a bare, rocky peak, 800
+feet above the lake. Standing on the summit, we enjoyed an extended view
+of the lake, inclosed in a basin of rugged mountains, which sometimes
+left marshy flats and extensive bottoms between them and the shore,
+and in other places came directly down into the water with bold and
+precipitous bluffs.
+
+"As we looked over the vast expanse of water spread out beneath us, and
+strained our eyes along the silent shores over which hung so much doubt
+and uncertainty, and which were so full of interest to us, I could
+hardly repress the almost irresistible desire to continue our
+exploration; but the lengthening snow on the mountains was a plain
+indication of the advancing season, and our frail linen boat appeared so
+insecure that I was unwilling to trust our lives to the uncertainties of
+the lake. I therefore unwillingly resolved to terminate our survey here,
+and remain satisfied for the present with what we had been able to
+add to the unknown geography of the region. We felt pleasure also in
+remembering that we were the first who, in the traditionary annals of
+the country, had visited the islands, and broken, with the cheerful
+sound of human voices, the long solitude of the place.
+
+"I accidentally left on the summit the brass cover to the object end of
+my spyglass and as it will probably remain there undisturbed by Indians,
+it will furnish matter of speculation to some future traveller. In our
+excursions about the island, we did not meet with any kind of animal: a
+magpie, and another larger bird, probably attracted by the smoke of our
+fire, paid us a visit from the shore, and were the only living things
+seen during our stay. The rock constituting the cliffs along the shore
+where we were encamped, is a talcous rock, or steatite, with brown spar.
+
+"At sunset, the temperature was 70 degrees. We had arrived just in time
+to obtain a meridian altitude of the sun, and other observations were
+obtained this evening, which placed our camp in latitude 41 degrees 10'
+42" and longitude 112 degrees 21' 05" from Greenwich. From a discussion
+of the barometrical observations made during our stay on the shores of
+the lake, we have adopted 4,200 feet for its elevation above the Gulf of
+Mexico. In the first disappointment we felt from the dissipation of our
+dream of the fertile islands, I called this Disappointment Island.
+
+"Out of the driftwood, we made ourselves pleasant little lodges, open to
+the water, and, after having kindled large fires to excite the wonder of
+any straggling savage on the lake shores, lay down, for the first time
+in a long journey, in perfect security; no one thinking about his arms.
+The evening was extremely bright and pleasant; but the wind rose during
+the night, and the waves began to break heavily on the shore, making
+our island tremble. I had not expected in our inland journey to hear
+the roar of an ocean surf; and the strangeness of our situation, and the
+excitement we felt in the associated interests of the place, made
+this one of the most interesting nights I remember during our long
+expedition.
+
+"In the morning, the surf was breaking heavily on the shore, and we were
+up early. The lake was dark and agitated, and we hurried through our
+scanty breakfast, and embarked--having first filled one of the buckets
+with water from which it was intended to make salt. The sun had risen
+by the time we were ready to start; and it was blowing a strong gale of
+wind, almost directly off the shore, and raising a considerable sea, in
+which our boat strained very much. It roughened as we got away from
+the island, and it required all the efforts of the men to make any head
+against the wind and sea; the gale rising with the sun; and there was
+danger of being blown into one of the open reaches beyond the island.
+At the distance of half a mile from the beach, the depth of water was
+sixteen feet, with a clay bottom; but, as the working of the boat
+was very severe labor, and during the operation of sounding, it was
+necessary to cease paddling, during which the boat lost considerable
+way, I was unwilling to discourage the men, and reluctantly gave up my
+intention of ascertaining the depth and character of the bed. There was
+a general shout in the boat when we found ourselves in one fathom, and
+we soon after landed on a low point of mud, where we unloaded the boat,
+and carried the baggage to firmer ground."
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+
+ The Return--Suffering for Food--A Royal Feast--On the Lewis
+ Fork--Fort Hall--Division of the Party--Arrival at Dalles--The Sierra
+ Nevada--Preparations for the Passage Through the Mountains--Fremont's
+ Account.
+
+The explorers remained in camp the next day and boiled down some of the
+water from the lake, thereby obtaining considerable salt. The following
+morning was clear and beautiful and they returned by the same route,
+ascending the valley of Bear River toward the north.
+
+The expected Fitzpatrick and the provisions did not show themselves and
+the party began to suffer for food. When their situation became serious,
+Fremont permitted a horse to be killed and then all enjoyed one of their
+old fashioned feasts.
+
+But this supply could not last long, and still they failed to meet their
+expected friends. After a time they encountered an Indian who had killed
+an antelope, which they quickly purchased and another feast made every
+heart glad. By way of dessert, a messenger galloped into camp with
+the news that Fitzpatrick was close at hand with an abundant supply of
+provisions.
+
+The next morning the two parties united and continued the journey
+together. After leaving the Bear River Valley they crossed over to
+Lewis's Fork of the Columbia. At night the camp fires of the Indian
+twinkled like so many stars along the mountain side; but they were all
+friendly and the tired explorers slept peacefully.
+
+Pushing onward they reached the upper waters of Lewis's Fork, where
+snow began to fall. However, they were quite near Fort Hall and they
+therefore went into camp, while Fremont rode to the fort and procured
+several horses and oxen.
+
+The weather continued severe, but Fremont determined to push on, despite
+the hardships which he knew awaited them all. As a matter of prudence,
+however, he sent back eleven of his men, leaving about twenty with which
+he pursued his journey down the river valley in the direction of the
+Columbia. The Dalles was reached in safety where Kit Carson was left in
+command of the party, while Fremont with a few companions pushed on to
+Vancouver Island, where he procured some provisions. On his return, the
+whole party united and made their way to Klamath Lake, in what was then
+Oregon Territory. When their observations were completed, they took up
+their march in the direction of California.
+
+After a long and wearisome journey, attended by much suffering for the
+lack of food, they came in sight of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, which
+were seen to be covered with snow. The men were in a sorry plight. The
+provisions were nearly gone; they could not turn back, and there seemed
+but two alternatives before them: to push on through the mountains or
+remain where they were and starve to death. Such men were not the ones
+to fold their hands and lie down in helpless despair. Accordingly, they
+made their preparations for the terrible venture.
+
+The snow was so deep that it was impossible to get forward without
+the aid of snowshoes. Devoting themselves to the manufacture of these
+indispensable articles, a few were sent ahead to learn how far it was
+necessary to break a path for the animals. After a laborious passage,
+it was found that nine miles would have to be prepared in that fashion.
+Carson was with this advance and when they halted, he saw in the
+distance the green Sacramento Valley. Although nearly twenty years had
+passed since he visited that section, he recognized it at once. Away
+beyond towered the white peaks of the Coast Range. Carson was the only
+man in the party who really knew where they were.
+
+This passage of Fremont and his men through the Sierra Nevada Mountains
+is one of the most extraordinary achievements in American history.
+Carson himself took such a prominent part in it, that it seems only just
+that Fremont's thrilling account should be quoted.
+
+"The people were unusually silent; for every man knew that our
+enterprise was hazardous, and the issue doubtful.
+
+"The snow deepened rapidly, and it soon became necessary to break
+a road. For this service, a party of ten was formed, mounted on the
+strongest horses; each man in succession opening the road on foot, or on
+horseback, until himself and his horse became fatigued, when he stepped
+aside; and, the remaining number passing ahead, he took his station in
+the rear.
+
+"The camp had been all the day occupied in endeavoring to ascend the
+hill, but only the best horses had succeeded; the animals, generally,
+not having sufficient strength to bring themselves up without the packs;
+and all the line of road between this and the springs was strewed with
+camp stores and equipage, and horses floundering in snow. I therefore
+immediately encamped on the ground with my own mess, which was in
+advance, and directed Mr. Fitzpatrick to encamp at the springs, and send
+all the animals, in charge of Tabeau, with a strong guard, back to the
+place where they had been pastured the night before. Here was a small
+spot of level ground, protected on one side by the mountain, and on
+the other sheltered by a little ridge of rock. It was an open grove of
+pines, which assimilated in size to the grandeur of the mountain, being
+frequently six feet in diameter.
+
+"Tonight we had no shelter, but we made a large fire around the trunk of
+one of the huge pines; and covering the snow with small boughs, on which
+we spread our blankets, soon made ourselves comfortable. The night was
+very bright and clear, though the thermometer was only at 10 degrees. A
+strong wind which sprang up at sundown, made it intensely cold; and this
+was one of the bitterest nights during the journey.
+
+"Two Indians joined our party here; and one of them, an old man,
+immediately began to harangue us, saying that ourselves and animals
+would perish in the snow; and that, if we would go back, he would show
+us another and a better way across the mountain. He spoke in a very loud
+voice, and there was a singular repetition of phrases and arrangement of
+words, which rendered his speech striking, and not unmusical.
+
+"We had now begun to understand some words, and, with the aid of signs,
+easily comprehended the old man's simple ideas. 'Rock upon rock--rock
+upon rock--snow upon snow--snow upon snow,' said he; 'even if you get
+over the snow, you will not be able to get down from the mountains.' He
+made us the sign of precipices, and showed us how the feet of the horses
+would slip, and throw them off from the narrow trails led along their
+sides. Our Chinook, who comprehended even more readily than ourselves,
+and believed our situation hopeless, covered his head with his blanket,
+and began to weep and lament. 'I wanted to see the whites,' said he; 'I
+came away from my own people to see the whites, and I wouldn't care to
+die among them; but here'--and he looked around into the cold night and
+gloomy forest, and, drawing his blanket over his head, began again to
+lament.
+
+"Seated around the tree, the fire illuminating the rocks and the tall
+boils of the pines round about, and the old Indian haranguing, we
+presented a group of very serious faces.
+
+"February 5.--The night had been too cold to sleep, and we were up very
+early. Our guide was standing by the fire with all his finery on;
+and seeing him shiver in the cold, I threw on his shoulders one of my
+blankets. We missed him a few minutes afterwards, and never saw him
+again. He had deserted. His bad faith and treachery were in perfect
+keeping with the estimate of Indian character, which a long intercourse
+with this people had gradually forced upon my mind.
+
+"While a portion of the camp were occupied in bringing up the baggage to
+this point, the remainder were busied in making sledges and snowshoes. I
+had determined to explore the mountain ahead, and the sledges were to be
+used in transporting the baggage.
+
+"Crossing the open basin, in a march of about ten miles we reached the
+top of one of the peaks, to the left of the pass indicated by our guide.
+Far below us, dimmed by the distance, was a large, snowless valley,
+bounded on the western side, at the distance of about a hundred miles,
+by a low range of mountains, which Carson recognized with delight as
+the mountains bordering the coast. 'There,' said he, 'is the little
+mountain--it is fifteen years ago since I saw it; but I am just as sure
+as if I had seen it yesterday.' Between us, then, and this low coast
+range, was the valley of the Sacramento; and no one who had not
+accompanied us through the incidents of our life for the last few
+months, could realize the delight with which at last we looked down
+upon it. At the distance of apparently thirty miles beyond us were
+distinguished spots of prairie; and a dark line, which could be traced
+with the glass, was imagined to be the course of the river; but we were
+evidently at a great height above the valley, and between us and the
+plains extended miles of snowy fields and broken ridges of pine covered
+mountains.
+
+"It was late in the day when we turned towards the camp; and it grew
+rapidly cold as it drew towards night. One of the men became fatigued
+and his feet began to freeze, and building a fire in the trunk of a dry
+old cedar, Mr. Fitzpatrick remained with him until his clothes could
+be dried, and he was in a condition to come on. After a day's march of
+twenty miles, we straggled into camp, one after another, at nightfall;
+the greater number excessively fatigued, only two of the party having
+ever travelled on snowshoes before.
+
+"All our energies were now directed to getting our animals across the
+snow; and it was supposed that, after all the baggage had been drawn
+with the sleighs over the trail we had made, it would be sufficiently
+hard to bear our animals.
+
+"At several places, between this point and the ridge, we had discovered
+some grassy spots, where the wind and sun had dispersed the snow from
+the sides of the hills, and these were to form resting place to support
+the animals for a night in their passage across. On our way across, we
+had set on fire several broken stumps and dried trees, to melt holes in
+the snow for the camp. Its general depth was five feet; but we passed
+over places where it was twenty feet deep, as shown by the trees.
+
+"With one party drawing sleighs loaded with baggage, I advanced today
+about four miles along the trail, and encamped at the first grassy spot,
+where we expected to bring our horses. Mr. Fitzpatrick, with another
+party, remained behind, to form an intermediate station between us and
+the animals.
+
+"Putting on our snowshoes, we spent the afternoon in exploring a road
+ahead. The glare of the snow, combined with great fatigue, had rendered
+many of the people nearly blind; but we were fortunate in having some
+black silk handkerchiefs, which, worn as veils, very much relieved the
+eye.
+
+"In the evening I received a message from Mr. Fitzpatrick, acquainting
+me with the utter failure of his attempt to get our mules and horses
+over the snow--the half hidden trail had proved entirely too slight to
+support them, and they had broken through, and were plunging about or
+lying half buried in snow. He was occupied in endeavoring to get
+them back to his camp; and in the mean time sent to me for further
+instructions. I wrote to him to send the animals immediately back to
+their old pastures; and, after having made mauls and shovels, turn in
+all the strength of his party to open and beat a road through the snow,
+strengthening it with branches and boughs of the pines.
+
+"February 12.--We made mauls, and worked hard at our end of the road all
+the day. The wind was high, but the sun bright, and the snow thawing. We
+worked down the face of the hill, to meet the people at the other end.
+Towards sundown it began to grow cold, and we shouldered our mauls, and
+trudged back to camp.
+
+"February 13.--We continued to labor on the road; and in the course of
+the day had the satisfaction to see the people working down the face of
+the opposite hill, about three miles distant. During the morning we had
+the pleasure of a visit from Mr. Fitzpatrick, with the information that
+all was going on well. A party of Indians had passed on snowshoes, who
+said they were going to the western side of the mountain after fish.
+This was an indication that the salmon were coming up the streams;
+and we could hardly restrain our impatience as we thought of them, and
+worked with increased vigor.
+
+"I was now perfectly satisfied that we had struck the stream on which
+Mr. Sutter lived, and turning about, made a hard push, and reached
+the camp at dark. Here we had the pleasure to find all the remaining
+animals, fifty-seven in number, safely arrived at the grassy hill near
+the camp; and here, also, we were agreeably surprised with the sight of
+an abundance of salt. Some of the horse guard had gone to a neighboring
+hut for pine nuts, and discovered unexpectedly a large cake of very
+white fine grained salt, which the Indians told them they had brought
+from the other side of the mountain; they used it to eat with their pine
+nuts, and readily sold it for goods.
+
+"On the 19th, the people were occupied in making a road and bringing up
+the baggage; and, on the afternoon of the next day, February 20, 1844,
+we encamped with all the materiel of the camp, on the summit of the pass
+in the dividing ridge, 1,000 miles by our travelled road from the Dalles
+of the Columbia.
+
+"February 21.--We now considered ourselves victorious over the mountain;
+having only the descent before us, and the valley under our eyes, we
+felt strong hope that we should force our way down. But this was a case
+in which the descent was not facile. Still, deep fields of snow lay
+between, and there was a large intervening space of rough looking
+mountains, through which we had yet to wind our way. Carson roused me
+this morning with an early fire, and we were all up long before day,
+in order to pass the snow fields before the sun should render the crust
+soft. We enjoyed this morning a scene at sunrise, which, even here,
+was unusually glorious and beautiful. Immediately above the eastern
+mountains was repeated a cloud formed mass of purple ranges, bordered
+with bright yellow gold; the peaks shot up into a narrow line of crimson
+cloud, above which the air was filled with a greenish orange; and over
+all was the singular beauty of the blue sky. Passing along a ridge which
+commanded the lake on our right, of which we began to discover an outlet
+through a chasm on the west, we passed over alternating open ground and
+hard crusted snow fields which supported the animals, and encamped on
+the ridge after a journey of six miles. The grass was better than we
+had yet seen, and we were encamped in a clump of trees, twenty or thirty
+feet high, resembling white pine."
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+
+ Continuation of Fremont's Account of the Passage Through the Mountains.
+
+"We had hard and doubtful labor yet before us, as the snow appeared to
+be heavier where the timber began further down, with few open spots.
+Ascending a height, we traced out the best line we could discover for
+the next day's march, and had at least the consolation to see that the
+mountain descended rapidly. The day had been one of April; gusty, with
+a few occasional flakes of snow; which, in the afternoon enveloped the
+upper mountains in clouds. We watched them anxiously, as now we dreaded
+a snow storm. Shortly afterwards we heard the roll of thunder, and
+looking toward the valley, found it all enveloped in a thunderstorm. For
+us, as connected with the idea of summer, it had a singular charm; and
+we watched its progress with excited feelings until nearly sunset,
+when the sky cleared off brightly, and we saw a shining line of water
+directing its course towards another, a broader and larger sheet. We
+knew that these could be no other than the Sacramento and the bay of San
+Francisco; but, after our long wandering in rugged mountains, where so
+frequently we had met with disappointments, and where the crossing of
+every ridge displayed some unknown lake or river, we were yet almost
+afraid to believe that we were at last to escape into the genial country
+of which we have heard so many glowing descriptions, and dreaded again
+to find some vast interior lake, whose bitter waters would bring us
+disappointment. On the southern shore of what appeared to be the bay,
+could be traced the gleaming line where entered another large stream;
+and again the Buenaventura rose up in our mind.
+
+"Carson had entered the valley along the southern side of the bay, but
+the country then was so entirely covered with water from snow and rain,
+that he had been able to form no correct impression of watercourses.
+
+"We had the satisfaction to know that at least there were people below.
+Fires were lit up in the valley just at night, appearing to be in answer
+to ours; and these signs of life renewed, in some measure, the gayety
+of the camp. They appeared so near, that we judged them to be among the
+timber of some of the neighboring ridges; but, having them constantly in
+view day after day, and night after night, we afterwards found them to
+be fires that had been kindled by the Indians among the tulares, on the
+shore of the bay, eighty miles distant.
+
+"Axes and mauls were necessary today to make a road through the snow.
+Going ahead with Carson to reconnoitre the road, we reached in the
+afternoon the river which made the outlet of the lake. Carson sprang
+over, clear across a place where the stream was compressed among rocks,
+but the parfleche sole of my moccasin glanced from the icy rock, and
+precipitated me into the river. It was some few seconds before I could
+recover myself in the current, and Carson, thinking me hurt, jumped in
+after me, and we both had an icy bath. We tried to search a while for
+my gun, which had been lost in the fall, but the cold drove us out; and
+making a large fire on the bank, after we had partially dried ourselves
+we went back to meet the camp. We afterwards found that the gun had been
+slung under the ice which lined the banks of the creek.
+
+"The sky was clear and pure, with a sharp wind from the northeast, and
+the thermometer 20 below the freezing point.
+
+"We continued down the south face of the mountain; our road leading
+over dry ground, we were able to avoid the snow almost entirely. In the
+course of the morning we struck a foot path, which we were generally
+able to keep; and the ground was soft to our animals feet, being sandy
+or covered with mould. Green grass began to make its appearance,
+and occasionally we passed a hill scatteringly covered with it. The
+character of the forest continued the same; and, among the trees, the
+pine with sharp leaves and very large cones was abundant, some of them
+being noble trees. We measured one that had ten feet diameter, though
+the height was not more than one hundred and thirty feet. All along, the
+river was a roaring torrent, its fall very great; and, descending with a
+rapidity to which we had long been strangers, to our great pleasure oak
+trees appeared on the ridge, and soon became very frequent; on these I
+remarked unusually great quantities of mistletoe.
+
+"The opposite mountain side was very steep and continuous--unbroken
+by ravines, and covered with pines and snow; while on the side we were
+travelling, innumerable rivulets poured down from the ridge. Continuing
+on, we halted a moment at one of these rivulets, to admire some
+beautiful evergreen trees, resembling live oak, which shaded the little
+stream. They were forty to fifty feet high, and two in diameter, with
+a uniform tufted top; and the summer green of their beautiful foliage,
+with the singing birds, and the sweet summer wind which was whirling
+about the dry oak leaves, nearly intoxicated us with delight; and we
+hurried on, filled with excitement, to escape entirely from the horrid
+region of inhospitable snow, to the perpetual spring of the Sacramento.
+
+"February 25.--Believing that the difficulties of the road were passed,
+and leaving Mr. Fitzpatrick to follow slowly, as the condition of the
+animals required, I started ahead this morning with a party of eight,
+consisting (with myself) of Mr. Preuss, and Mr. Talbot, Carson,
+Derosier, Towns, Proue, and Jacob. We took with us some of the best
+animals, and my intention was to proceed as rapidly as possible to
+the house of Mr. Sutter, and return to meet the party with a supply of
+provisions and fresh animals.
+
+"Near night fall we descended into the steep ravine of a handsome
+creek thirty feet wide, and I was engaged in getting the horses up the
+opposite hill, when I heard a shout from Carson, who had gone ahead a
+few hundred yards. 'Life yet,' said he, as he came up, 'life yet; I have
+found a hillside sprinkled with grass enough for the night.' We drove
+along our horses, and encamped at the place about dark, and there was
+just room enough to make a place for shelter on the edge of the stream.
+Three horses were lost today--Proveau; a fine young horse from the
+Columbia, belonging to Charles Towns; and another Indian horse which
+carried our cooking utensils; the two former gave out, and the latter
+strayed off into the woods as we reached the camp: and Derosier knowing
+my attachment to Proveau, volunteered to go and bring him in.
+
+"Carson and I climbed one of the nearest mountains; the forest land
+still extended ahead, and the valley appeared as far as ever. The pack
+horse was found near the camp, but Derosier did not get in.
+
+"We began to be uneasy at Derosier's absence, fearing he might have been
+bewildered in the woods. Charles Towns, who had not yet recovered his
+mind, went to swim in the river, as if it was summer, and the stream
+placid, when it was a cold mountain torrent foaming among the rocks.
+We were happy to see Derosier appear in the evening. He came in,
+and sitting down by the fire, began to tell us where he had been. He
+imagined he had been gone several days, and thought we were still at the
+camp where he had left us; and we were pained to see that his mind was
+deranged. It appeared that he had been lost in the mountain, and hunger
+and fatigue, joined to weakness of body, and fear of perishing in the
+mountains had crazed him. The times were severe when stout men lost
+their minds from extremity of suffering--when horses died--and when
+mules and horses, ready to die of starvation, were killed for food.
+Yet there was no murmuring or hesitation. In the meantime Mr. Preuss
+continued on down the river, and unaware that we had encamped so early
+in the day, was lost. When night arrived and he did not come in, we
+began to understand what had happened to him; but it was too late to
+make any search.
+
+"March 3.--We followed Mr. Preuss's trail for a considerable distance
+along the river, until we reached a place where he had descended to the
+stream below and encamped. Here we shouted and fired guns, but received
+no answer; and we concluded that he had pushed on down the stream.
+I determined to keep out from the river, along which it was nearly
+impracticable to travel with animals, until it should form a valley.
+At every step the country improved in beauty; the pines were rapidly
+disappearing, and oaks became the principal trees of the forest. Among
+these, the prevailing tree was the evergreen oak (which, by way of
+distinction, we shall call the live oak); and with these, occurred
+frequently a new species of oak, bearing a long, slender acorn, from an
+inch to an inch and a half in length, which we now began to see formed
+the principal vegetable food of the inhabitants of this region. In a
+short distance we crossed a little rivulet, where were two old huts and
+near by were heaps of acorn hulls. The ground round about was very rich,
+covered with an exuberant sward of grass; and we sat down for a while
+in the shade of the oaks to let the animals feed. We repeated our shouts
+for Mr. Preuss; and this time we were gratified with an answer. The
+voice grew rapidly nearer, ascending from the river, but when we
+expected to see him emerge, it ceased entirely. We had called up some
+straggling Indian--the first we had met, although for two days back
+we had seen tracks--who, mistaking us for his fellows, had been only
+undeceived by getting close up. It would have been pleasant to witness
+his astonishment; he would not have been more frightened had some of the
+old mountain spirits they are so much afraid of suddenly appeared in his
+path. Ignorant of the character of these people, we had now additional
+cause of uneasiness in regard to Mr. Preuss; he had no arms with him,
+and we began to think his chance doubtful. Occasionally we met deer, but
+had not the necessary time for hunting. At one of these orchard grounds,
+we encamped about noon to make an effort for Mr. Preuss. One man took
+his way along a spur leading into the river, in hope to cross his
+trail, and another took our own back. Both were volunteers; and to the
+successful man was promised a pair of pistols--not as a reward, but as
+a token of gratitude for a service which would free us all from much
+anxiety."
+
+At the end of four days, Mr. Preuss surprised and delighted his friends
+by walking into camp. He had lived on roots and acorns and was in the
+last stages of exhaustion.
+
+Shortly the advance party reached Sutter's Fort where they received the
+most hospitable treatment. All their wants were abundantly supplied, and
+provisions were sent back to Fitzpatrick and his party.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+
+ The Start Homeward--The Visitors in Camp and Their Story--Carson and
+ Godey Start to the Rescue--Trailing the Enemy by Night--In Camp--The
+ Attack--An Amazing Success--The Return.
+
+Fremont and his command remained at Sutter's Fort about a month, when
+their preparations were completed for their return to the States. They
+journeyed leisurely up the valley of the San Joaquin, crossing over the
+Sierra Nevada and Coast Range by means of an easily travelled pass. The
+latter chain was followed until they came upon the Spanish trail, along
+which they passed to the Mohave River. Where the Trail diverges from
+that stream, Carson became involved in a characteristic adventure.
+
+While in camp two Mexicans, a man and a boy, rode up and told a sad
+story. They belonged to a party of Mexican traders from New Mexico. Six
+of them, including two women who acted as cooks, were left in charge
+of a band of horses while the rest were away, engaged in barter. When
+endeavoring to find better grazing for their animals and while the man
+and boy were on guard, they were attacked by a band of thirty Indians.
+The warriors were after the horses and their first demonstration was
+a flight of arrows. The only chance of escape was to make off with
+the animals and the two started them on a dead run straight toward
+the Indians. The charge was so impetuous, that they forced their way
+through, and continued their flight, while the warriors remained behind
+to massacre the others.
+
+When the couple had gone a long distance, they left the horses and
+turned back to look for their friends. While they were doing so, they
+came upon Fremont's camp. When it is added that among those who were
+left behind by the Mexicans, were the wife of the man and the father and
+mother of the boy, their pitiful situation must touch the hearts of
+all. They were overcome with grief, and Carson was so stirred that he
+volunteered to go back with the couple and help rescue their friends
+if alive, or punish the Indians, if it should prove that they had been
+massacred.
+
+Richard Godey, a mountaineer almost the equal with Carson, willingly
+agreed to accompany him. The two were perfectly familiar with the
+country, which was an immense advantage. When the Mexicans described the
+spring, a long ways distant, where they had abandoned the horses to
+hunt for their friends, Carson recalled its exact location. It was about
+thirty miles away and he said that that was the point toward which they
+must push with all speed.
+
+Accordingly they turned the heads of their horses thither and struck
+into a sweeping gallop, resting only when compelled to do so, and
+reaching the spring at daylight the next morning. Not a horse was
+visible, but an examination of the ground showed that the Indians had
+followed the fleeing Mexicans and stock to the spring, where, finding
+the animals, they had captured and driven them off in another direction.
+
+It seems like a piece of madness for three men to pursue ten times as
+many Indian warriors; but the blood of Carson was up and he told Godey
+it was too soon for them to turn back. The eyes of both flashed, when
+they reflected upon the shameful outrage, and they meant that the
+marauders should not get off scot free.
+
+As the boy was only an incumbrance, he was left behind, and, taking
+the trail of the warriors, the three put their horses to their best,
+confident the chase would be a long one. On such occasions, the red men
+are accustomed to travel a long distance before making a halt. With so
+much booty in their hands, they were liable to be set upon by others as
+savage as themselves, and they had every cause, therefore, to get out of
+the country with the least possible delay.
+
+The three were riding in this furious fashion, when most unexpectedly
+the steed of the Mexican gave out. A minute's examination showed he was
+as thoroughly used up and useless as the horse of the Ute Indian, years
+before, who started out with Kit to pursue the thief that was running
+off with the animals. There was no course but to leave the Mexican
+behind, for time was too precious to ride back to camp after another
+horse. He, therefore was told to go back to Fremont's camp and await
+their return.
+
+The exploit of Carson and Godey, when calmly told, seems incredible.
+There was no one in Fremont's command who would go with them, and though
+they knew there were a score and a half of savage wild men to encounter,
+they did not hesitate, but pressed their steeds to the utmost, eager to
+join in the fierce hand to hand conflict.
+
+When night shut in upon them, the Indians were not in sight and the
+signs indicated they were a good many miles ahead. There was no moon
+or stars and they could see only a few feet in advance of their horses'
+ears, but it would not do to linger. If they should go into camp, they
+would lose so much ground that pursuit was likely to be hopeless.
+
+Accordingly, they dismounted and leading their steeds, continued
+the pursuit on foot. Where it was impossible to see the ground, they
+depended on the sense of feeling. Quite certain of the general direction
+taken by the red men, they occasionally stooped down and passed their
+hands over the earth. The trail was so distinct that it could be readily
+detected in this manner, provided they had not gone astray. Several
+times they wandered to the right or left, but found their way back
+without difficulty, and the chase was continued for several hours in
+this singular fashion.
+
+After a time, the trail became so fresh that it could be readily
+detected and no doubt was left in their minds that they were close upon
+the marauders. Inasmuch as Carson and Godey had pushed their horses to
+the utmost, and they were showing signs of weariness, they concluded, in
+view of these facts, to halt and wait until daylight.
+
+The night was unusually cold, but they dared not start a fire, lest
+it should apprise their enemies of their presence. So they suffered in
+silence, miserable, wretched and as uncomfortable as it was possible to
+be, while watching for the growing light in the east.
+
+When at last, morning appeared, they were so chilled that they could
+hardly walk; but making their way to the bottom of a ravine, they
+kindled a fire, and with the help of some violent exercise, managed to
+start their blood in circulation.
+
+In a very brief time, their horses were resaddled and they were
+galloping along the trail again. Within an hour, they caught sight of
+the Indians and the stolen animals. The warriors were in camp and were
+enjoying a breakfast of horse meat, several of the stock having been
+killed to furnish the food.
+
+Before the Indians could detect their pursuers, the latter dismounted
+and hid their steeds where they were not likely to attract notice. They
+then started to crawl in among the stolen animals, which were grazing a
+short distance from camp. This was an exceedingly delicate task, for
+the horses were likely to give the alarm, even if the warriors did not
+detect their presence; but patience and skill succeeded, and, after a
+time, they were among the drove.
+
+But the very thing they dreaded took place. They had scarcely reached
+the animals, when one of them became frightened by the appearance of the
+strangers, and began rearing and snorting. This caused such confusion
+among the others that the Indians became alarmed and sprang to their
+feet. Carson and Godey emitted a series of yells that must have made the
+red men envious, and dashed at full speed toward the thirty Indians. The
+moment they were within range, both fired. Carson killed his man, but
+Godey missed. The latter reloaded with great quickness and fired again,
+bringing down his man.
+
+Meanwhile, the warriors were thrown into a sort of panic by the
+amazing audacity of their assailants. They could not have suspected the
+truth--that is that no others were near. They must have believed that a
+strong reserve was close at hand and that if they tarried in camp they
+would be overwhelmed by a party of avengers. Accordingly they broke and
+ran, leaving the daring mountaineers masters of the field.
+
+In accordance with the savage spirit of the border, Godey scalped the
+two Indians who had been shot, after which the horses were gathered
+together and driven to where the steeds of the mountaineers had been
+left.
+
+But when this point was reached, Carson expressed himself as not
+satisfied: they had not ascertained the fate of the captives and they
+now proceeded to do so.
+
+In the camp of the Mexicans were found the mangled bodies of the two
+men. These were buried by Carson and Godey who made search for the
+women. Though nothing of them was discovered, it was afterwards learned
+that they, too, had been killed. Having done all that was possible,
+Carson and Godey made their way back to Fremont's camp, where the
+stolen property was turned over to the Mexicans, the daring mountaineers
+refusing to accept the slightest payment for their extraordinary
+services.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+
+ Arrival at Bent's Fort--Carson goes to Taos and Decides to Become a
+ Farmer--Arrival of a Messenger from Fremont--Carson and Owens Repair
+ Again to Bent's Fort--Carson Engages as Guide for Fremont's Third
+ Exploring Expedition--On the Great Divide--Division of the Parties--The
+ Journey Across the Desert--A Singular Meeting--Aboriginal Horse Thieves.
+
+After a tedious journey of many miles, the exploring party reached
+Bent's Fort July 2, 1844. The labors were considered finished, and
+bidding his old commander goodbye, Carson made his way to Taos, where he
+had a most happy reunion with his family. He was cordially welcomed by
+hundreds of old friends who had learned years before the rare courage
+and worth of the man, and who were proud to possess such a neighbor.
+
+Carson had led a wild and adventurous career, and, after talking much
+with those in whom he had confidence, he decided to adopt the life of
+a farmer. In this conclusion he was joined by Richard Owens, an old
+mountaineer and an intimate associate for many years.
+
+It did not take them long to fix upon a desirable site, and, in the
+spring of 1845, stock and animals were bought, building commenced
+and everything was fairly under way. At the moment when the scarred
+mountaineers were counting with pleasure on the complete arrangements
+made, an express messenger galloped up and handed Carson a letter.
+
+The contents were of an important character. Captain Fremont had written
+to notify Kit that he had started on his third exploring expedition,
+and, inasmuch as the mountaineer had given his promise months before,
+that in the event of doing so, he (Carson) would serve again as guide,
+Fremont reminded him that he should hold him to his pledge and would
+expect to meet him at Bent's Fort on his arrival there.
+
+It was a considerable pecuniary sacrifice for Carson to keep his
+promise, but he never failed to do so, when it was not absolutely
+impossible. Besides, it is fair to presume that the old life could never
+lose its charm for one of his disposition, and, contrasted with the
+humdrum existence of a farmer, he could not have been much grieved over
+the reception of the message. But it must be stated that both Owens and
+Carson sold out at much loss, and, putting their affairs in the best
+shape possible, bade families and friends goodbye, mounted their horses
+and set out for Bent's Fort which was safely reached some days later.
+
+There they were warmly welcomed by Fremont, who had entered upon his
+third exploring expedition, the last under the authority of the United
+States government, though two others were afterwards undertaken on his
+own responsibility. As was to be supposed, Fremont taking lessons from
+his previous experiences, was much better equipped for his third than
+for either of the other preceding expeditions. He had about fifty men,
+among them in addition to Carson and Owens, being Maxwell, the famous
+mountaineer, Walker who was a member of Captain Bonneville's expedition
+to the Columbia, besides other hunters and scouts less known but not
+less skilful and daring than they.
+
+We have already given tolerably full accounts of the two exploring
+expeditions of Fremont, and it is not our purpose to narrate the
+particulars of the one which followed. There is a sameness in many of
+the occurrences but the third time the Pathfinder penetrated into the
+recesses of the far west, he became involved in a series of experiences
+totally different from the preceding and deeply interesting of
+themselves.
+
+Several months were spent on what may be called the Great Divide--that
+is the region where the waters flow east or west to either ocean, and
+in the autumn of the year they encamped on the southwestern shore of the
+Great Salt Lake.
+
+Before them stretched a vast arid plain to which the trappers referred
+with a shudder of terror. They had heard of it many a time and the
+common legend was that no man white or Indian who had ever attempted to
+cross it, succeeded. These stories, however, added to the eagerness of
+Captain Fremont to explore its secrets, and, when he proposed it to
+his men, they expressed as strong a desire as he to do so. They felt a
+mutual trust and confidence impossible under other circumstances.
+
+Some seventy miles away, a mountain peak held out the promise of wood
+and water. Four men under the guidance of an Indian, were sent forward
+to explore the place, and, in the event of finding water, they were
+instructed to apprise the watchful commander by means of the smoke from
+a camp fire.
+
+When the second day closed without sight of the signal, Fremont became
+so uneasy that he moved forward with the rest of the party and travelled
+all night. At daylight, one of the smaller party approached them. He
+said that running water and grass existed at the mountains, but their
+Indian guide was wholly ignorant of the country. This was good news and
+the next day the party reached the stream.
+
+Shortly after, the expedition was divided into two parties, Walker (of
+whom mention has been made), taking charge of the larger while Fremont
+led the smaller. It was the purpose of Walker to pass around to the
+foot of the Sierra Nevada, by a route with which he was familiar, while
+Fremont with Carson and less than a dozen men, among whom were several
+Delaware Indians, headed straight across the desert.
+
+While advancing over this arid tract, they detected a volume of smoke
+rising from a ravine. Cautiously approaching, they discovered an Indian
+warrior perfectly nude, standing by a fire and watching an earthen pot
+in which something was simmering. He was greatly frightened and offered
+them his food. They smiled, treated him kindly and gave him several
+trifling presents which he received with childish delight.
+
+One of the singular incidents of the journey took place while the
+exploring party were making their way along the foot of the Sierras.
+Passing around a point on the lake shore, they unexpectedly met a dozen
+Indian warriors. They were walking directly behind each other in what is
+known as Indian file, their heads bent forward and their eyes fixed on
+the ground. The whites turned aside to allow them to pass and naturally
+watched them with much interest. The Indians neither halted, deviated
+from the path, spoke nor looked up, but walked straight forward with
+their silent, measured tread until they disappeared. The explorers did
+not interfere with them or speak to them. Thus the representatives of
+the different races encountered.
+
+The division under charge of Walker joined Fremont at the appointed
+rendezvous, but winter was upon them, the mountains were sure to be
+choked with snow and no one was familiar with the route. As a matter of
+prudence, therefore, Walker was directed to continue southward with the
+principal party, while Fremont and a few picked men pushed on directly
+through the Sierras to Sutter's Fort, with a view of obtaining the
+necessary animals and supplies.
+
+The smaller division was advancing as best it could, when a number of
+plainly marked trails were observed showing they were in the vicinity of
+some of the most notorious horse thieves in the world. They were daring
+and skilful, went long distances, plundered ranches and hastened to the
+mountains with their booty. The exasperated Californians often organized
+and went in pursuit, but it was rare they overtook the dusky thieves,
+and when they succeeded in doing so, were invariably defeated.
+
+This sort of people were undesirable neighbors, and Fremont sent forward
+two Delawares and two mountaineers to make an investigation. They
+had not gone far, when the company following them found the signs so
+threatening that they were alarmed for the scouts. A short distance
+further they came upon such an excellent camping site that they decided
+to halt for the night.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+
+ Alarming Sounds--Danger of the Scouts--Fremont Goes to Their
+ Rescue--Arrival at Sutter's Fort--Ordered out of California by
+ the Mexican Governor--Fremont's Refusal--Withdrawal to Sacramento
+ River--Arrival of Despatches from Washington--War with Mexico--Meeting
+ with Lieutenant Gillespie--Night Attack by Klamath Indians.
+
+While preparing to go into camp, the explorers were mystified by
+hearing a number of peculiar sounds like the barking of dogs. Attentive
+listening, however, satisfied them that it came from an Indian village
+close by, whose women and children were calling out and lamenting. This
+constituted positive proof that the friends in advance were in trouble
+with the red men and there was not a minute to lose in going to their
+rescue.
+
+A half mile further, the explorers galloped over a slight ridge, when
+they suddenly came in sight of several hundred Indians, who were making
+their way up two sides of a knoll, on the crest of which the four scouts
+had entrenched themselves among the rocks and trees and were coolly
+awaiting the attack of their enemies.
+
+The little party had run so suddenly into danger that they were
+compelled to make a flying leap from their horses, in order to secure
+a suitable shelter. The assailants had almost captured the abandoned
+horses, when relief came. The two Delawares made a dash to recover their
+animals, their companions shooting the foremost of the thieves. The
+property was saved and then all fell back to their own camp.
+
+As the aboriginal horse thieves were so numerous, Fremont kept up
+an unremitting watch all through the night. Singular noises were
+continually heard and there could be no doubt that the women and
+children were retreating further into the mountains.
+
+One of the Delawares on guard was sure he saw an Indian leap over a log,
+and firing quickly, brought him to the ground; but it proved to be a
+prowling wolf. None of their enemies appeared, and when morning came,
+Fremont withdrew from his perilous position.
+
+Sutter's Fort at last was safely reached, and the other party having
+become lost, Carson was sent to find them. He succeeded with little
+difficulty and the companies reunited.
+
+Their course was now directed toward Monterey on the sea coast, where
+they were confident of securing all they needed, but before reaching the
+place, a messenger arrived from General Castro, the Mexican commander of
+the territory, ordering the Americans to leave at once or they would be
+driven out.
+
+Fremont immediately intrenched himself and waited for the Mexicans to
+carry out their threat. He waited three days, and then, as no attempt
+was made, withdrew to the Sacramento, which stream was followed to
+Lawson's Trading Post, where the commander hoped to purchase the outfit
+for the journey homeward.
+
+Moving northward toward the Columbia, they encountered an enormous force
+of marauding Indians with whom a fierce battle was fought. The savages
+were defeated and lost a large number of warriors.
+
+While encamped near Klamath Lake, two horsemen galloped up with
+despatches to Fremont from Washington, forwarded by Lieutenant
+Gillespie, of the United States Marines. This officer was making his way
+through the Indian country with six men as an escort, when his animals
+began to succumb. Fearing he would not be able to intercept the Captain,
+the Lieutenant selected two of his best men and sent them ahead with the
+despatches. He begged Fremont to forward him assistance, as he doubted
+his ability to reach him without such help.
+
+But the most startling news brought to camp was that war had been
+declared between the United States and Mexico. When Fremont had read his
+despatches from his Government, he appreciated the imminent danger in
+which the Lieutenant was placed, and, without any tarrying, perfected
+measures for his rescue.
+
+He immediately selected ten of his men, Carson, as a matter of course
+being among them, and pushed on with all haste, leaving directions for
+the rest to follow as rapidly as they could.
+
+Fremont and his little company had journeyed something over fifty miles
+when they met the officer and his companions. The meeting was of the
+happiest nature, for the Lieutenant, in fact, was in greater danger than
+he suspected, the Indians around him being among the most treacherous of
+their race.
+
+Those who have been placed in a situation resembling in a slight degree
+that of Fremont, can appreciate the interest with which he perused the
+letters and papers from his distant home. After the parties had gone
+into camp, the Captain sat up till after midnight reading by the light
+of the camp fire. Tired out at last, he stretched out with his blanket
+about him and sank soon into heavy slumber.
+
+The night was cold, and Carson and Owens, with their saddle blankets
+wrapped around them, lay down close to the fire. All at once Carson
+heard a peculiar noise, as though some one had struck a quick blow
+with an axe. Wondering what it could mean, he called to one of the
+mountaineers.
+
+"What's the matter over there?"
+
+There was no answer, for the head of the poor fellow had been cleft by
+an axe in the hands of one of the Klamath Indians who had crept into
+camp. A Delaware had already been killed by the treacherous redskins,
+that night being the second among all those spent in the west, when the
+explorers had no sentinel on duty.
+
+Carson and Owens called out "Indians!" and springing to their feet,
+hurried away from the fire whose strong light was sure to tempt the aim
+of their enemies.
+
+One of the other Delawares who leaped to his feet snatched up the
+nearest rifle which unfortunately was not his own, and was unloaded.
+Unaware of the fact, he tried to fire it over again and again, without
+suspecting the cause, while a Klamath launched arrow after arrow into
+his body. The first penetrated his left breast and was fatal; but he
+bravely kept his feet trying to discharge the useless gun, until four
+other missiles were also buried within a few inches of the first.
+
+Kit Carson had been quick to detect the danger of the brave Delaware,
+and, in the hope of saving his life, he brought his unerring rifle to
+his shoulder. Just as his finger pressed the trigger, he recollected
+that that, too, was unloaded.
+
+By one of those singular fatalities which sometimes occur, Carson had
+broken the tube the night before, and left the weapon unloaded. Without
+trifling with it, he threw it down, drew his single barrelled pistol
+and ran toward the Klamath, who was coolly launching his arrows into the
+breast of the poor Delaware.
+
+The Indian leaped from side to side, so as to distract the aim of his
+enemies, and, instead of hitting him, Carson only cut the string which
+held a tomahawk to the warrior's arm. The mountaineer had no other shot
+at command, and Maxwell tried his hand, but in the uncertain light,
+inflicted only a slight wound. The Indian at that moment wheeled to run,
+when one of the whites shot him dead. By this time the alarm was general
+and the assailants fled.
+
+There was good reason to believe that the Klamath Indians had set the
+snare for Lieutenant Gillespie and his escort. As it was, the wonder was
+that Fremont's command did not suffer to a greater extent; for having
+no sentinels on duty, the warriors might have perfected their schemes in
+security and killed a large number.
+
+The Indian who drove five arrows into the left breast of the Delaware,
+three of which pierced his heart, was the leader of the attacking party.
+He had an English half axe slung to his wrist by a cord, and forty
+arrows were left in his quiver. Carson pronounced them the most
+beautiful and warlike missiles he had ever seen.
+
+As may be supposed the explorers "slept on their arms" for the rest of
+the night, but the assailants had fled.
+
+They had killed three of the explorers, besides wounding another of the
+Delawares, who took characteristic revenge by scalping the leader
+that had been left where he fell. The dead were given the best burial
+possible. As illustrating the ingratitude and perfidy of these red
+men, it may be stated that it was only a few days before that they had
+visited Fremont's camp, and, though provisions were very scarce, they
+had been given considerable food, besides tobacco and a number of
+presents.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+
+ Retaliatory Measures--Fremont's Return to California--Capture of
+ Sonoma--Sutter's Fort Placed Under Military Rule--Monterey Taken
+ by Commodore Sloat--Capture of Los Angeles by Fremont and Commodore
+ Stockton--Carson Sent East as a Bearer of Despatches--The Meeting with
+ Apaches--General Kearney--Bravery of the California Mexicans.
+
+The indignation over the action of the Indians was so great that
+retaliatory measures were determined upon. Fremont moved around Lake
+Klamath until nearly opposite where his command had been attacked. The
+following morning, Carson and ten men were sent forward to search
+for the Indian village that was believed to be somewhere in the
+neighborhood. If the discovery could be made without detection on the
+part of the Indians, Carson was instructed to signal to Fremont who
+would hasten forward with reinforcements.
+
+The mountaineer had not gone far, when he struck a broad, clear trail,
+which speedily carried him in sight of a village of some fifty lodges.
+As it was evident that the Indians had detected their danger, Carson and
+his companions made an impetuous attack before which the red men fled in
+wildest panic. A number were shot, when, finding pursuit useless, Carson
+returned to the village where all the lodges were destroyed.
+
+Because of the war with Mexico, Fremont decided to return to California.
+On his way thither, the Tlamath Indians continually dogged them and a
+number of collisions followed, though none was of particular moment.
+After suffering many hardships, Lawson's Fort was reached and several
+days were spent in hunting, while Fremont awaited instructions as to the
+course he was to take in the war then going on between the United States
+and Mexico.
+
+As the days went by without bringing him any despatches, he wearied of
+inactivity and decided to assume the aggressive. Accordingly he sent
+a force to a Mexican military post known as Sonoma, which with little
+trouble was taken.
+
+Fremont sent out a couple of messengers to inform the American settlers
+of what had taken place, but the messengers fell into the hands of
+General Castro who put both to death.
+
+General Castro sent one of his captains, with quite a force to destroy
+the Americans, but the officer changed his mind when he found himself
+in the neighborhood of the detested invaders. Fremont pursued him for
+nearly a week, and captured much of his stock and property, but the
+Mexican was so skilful in retreating that he could not be brought to bay
+and Fremont returned to Sonoma.
+
+The little force under Fremont now became the rallying point for the
+American settlers, and before long the Captain had several hundred under
+his command. Leaving a garrison at Sonoma, he marched to Sutter's Fort,
+which was placed under military rule, and then made his way toward
+Monterey with the purpose of capturing that town. On his arrival,
+however, he found the place had already been taken by Commodore
+Sloat and the American squadron. The Commodore leaving shortly after,
+Commodore Stockton succeeded him.
+
+While at Sonoma, Fremont and his comrades had declared the independence
+of California and adopted the Bear Flag, which was proffered to
+Commodore Sloat and the Star Spangled Banner hoisted over the camp.
+
+As the Mexican General, Castro, was known to be at Los Angeles, Fremont
+asked for and obtained a ship on which his force was taken to San
+Diego. Then with a much inferior force, he set out to give battle to the
+Mexican leader; but the latter no sooner learned of his coming, than
+he fled with all his men. Finding it impossible to force him to give
+battle, Fremont encamped near the town, where he waited until joined by
+Commodore Stockton and a company of marines.
+
+The junction effected, they marched upon Los Angeles which immediately
+fell into their hands. Long before this, Fremont had become impressed
+with the necessity of having some communication with Washington. In
+one sense it may be said he was all at sea, for he was without positive
+instructions, at a critical period, when it was most important that his
+line of policy should be clearly defined by his government.
+
+But the matter of communicating with headquarters, thousands of miles
+away, was infinitely more difficult and serious than it is today. A
+vast, wild, perilous and almost unknown tract stretched between the
+Pacific and Atlantic, across which it required weeks and sometimes
+months for an express rider to make his way. To send despatches around
+Cape Horn took a much longer time; but the necessity was so urgent
+that Fremont sent Carson with fifteen picked men across the plains,
+instructing him to complete the journey if possible in sixty days.
+
+Carson started in the middle of September, 1846, and by the exercise of
+his consummate skill he passed rapidly through a most dangerous section
+without running into any special danger until the third day. Then, when
+in the neighborhood of the copper mines of New Mexico, he suddenly came
+upon an encampment of Apaches, one of the most hostile tribes and the
+most daring of fighters in the whole southwest.
+
+This was another of those critical occasions where Carson's wonderful
+quickness of mind enabled him to make the right decision without a
+second's delay. He understood the language, customs and peculiarities
+of the people, and he knew them to be splendid riders and tiger-like
+warriors. The least evidence of timidity would invite an overwhelming
+attack: a bold front and what may be called indomitable "cheek" were all
+that was likely to take them through.
+
+Telling his men to halt, Carson galloped forward until within a few rods
+of the warriors, when he reined up and called out that he wished to hold
+a parley with them. Thereupon, a number advanced to hear what he had
+to say. The mountaineer stated that he and his friends were simply
+travellers through the Apache country; while they were prepared for war,
+they desired peace, and as their animals were tired out they wished to
+exchange them for fresh ones. The Apaches expressed themselves satisfied
+with the proposal, and Carson carefully chose a camping site, where they
+could best protect themselves against treachery. Then the exchange was
+made, both parties being so well satisfied that they parted with many
+expressions of good will.
+
+It was impossible to carry any extended stock of provisions, the party
+depending upon their rifles to supply their needs in that direction; but
+game proved to be very scarce and they suffered much until they reached
+the first Mexican settlement. Although those people were at war with the
+United States, their friendship for Carson led them to supply abundantly
+all the wants of himself and friends.
+
+With unremitting diligence and skill, the party pushed on day after day
+until the sixth of October, when, as they were riding across a treeless
+prairie, several moving specks were observed in the far horizon. As they
+came closer, they resolved themselves into horsemen, and, with a
+delight which may be imagined, Carson speedily observed that they were
+a detachment of United States troops under the command of General S. W.
+Kearney, who was highly pleased to meet Carson.
+
+The detachment was a strong one and was on its way to operate in
+California. After that officer had obtained all the important news
+Carson had to give, he decided to send the despatches to Washington by
+another, while he employed the mountaineer to guide him back.
+
+This delicate duty was executed with such admirable skill that General
+Kearney commended Carson in the highest terms. So rapidly did they move
+that California was entered early in December, and they were approaching
+San Diego, when the scouts brought news that a large party of Mexicans
+were intrenched a short distance ahead with the intention of disputing
+their advance. Fifteen men under Carson were sent forward to drive in
+the outposts and capture such loose animals as could be found.
+
+A fierce fight followed, the Mexicans showing far more daring and skill
+than was expected. General Kearney was compelled to send two companies
+of dragoons and twenty-five California volunteers to charge the enemy.
+Carson was in the front column, and was riding at high speed, when his
+horse stumbled, throwing him so violently as to shatter the stock of
+his gun. He lay partly stunned but speedily recovering, he caught up the
+rifle of a dead dragoon and rushed into the fight. Though the Mexicans
+were finally driven out, they inflicted frightful loss on the Americans.
+Nearly every man who was in the front column, where Carson was riding
+when his horse threw him, was killed by the deadly bullets of the enemy.
+
+The Mexicans soon rallied and attacked the Americans with such
+fierceness that the advance guard was driven back and forced to act on
+the defensive. No soldiers could have fought with greater gallantry
+than did the assailants. Before the two mountain howitzers could
+be unlimbered, almost every man around them was shot down. Then the
+Mexicans charged forward, lassoed the horses, captured one of the guns
+and turned it on the Americans. From some cause or other it could not
+be discharged. Finally, the Americans took refuge among the rocks, where
+they were surrounded by three or four times their number, seemingly with
+the choice of two courses before them--to surrender or starve to death.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+
+ Daring Exploit of Kit Carson and Lieutenant Beale--General Kearney
+ Saved.
+
+The situation of General Kearney and his men could not have been more
+desperate. The only subsistence they had were their mules, and the water
+was insufficient to meet their wants. They were completely surrounded by
+the brave California Mexicans. They might exist for a time on the bodies
+of their animals, but they must perish without water.
+
+General Kearney called his friends together during the afternoon to
+consult as to whether any possible means of escape was before them. He
+could see none. He had sent three scouts to Commodore Stockton at San
+Diego, asking for immediate help, but the three were captured by the
+Mexicans on their return. Kearney had succeeded in exchanging a Mexican
+lieutenant, whom he held prisoner, for one of the scouts, but nothing
+was gained thereby. The messenger reported that they had been unable to
+reach San Diego, and Commodore Stockton, therefore, was in ignorance of
+the peril of his countrymen not far distant.
+
+When every one expressed himself as unable to see the first ray of
+hope, Carson in his deliberate, modest way said that it was clear only a
+single possibility remained--that was by procuring relief from Commodore
+Stockton at San Diego. Though the other scouts had failed to reach
+him, Carson expressed his belief that he could succeed. At any rate, he
+desired to make the attempt to pass the Mexican lines.
+
+Lieutenant Beale, since Minister to Austria, and favorably known
+throughout the country, immediately seconded the proposition,
+volunteering to accompany Carson. General Kearney gladly and gratefully
+accepted the offer, and the arrangements were instantly made. These
+arrangements were of the simplest nature. The beleaguered Americans
+were surrounded by three cordons of sentinels, and it was necessary
+for Carson and Beale to make their way past them in order to reach San
+Diego.
+
+When night was fully descended, the two left the rocks and approaching
+the first line, sank upon their hands and knees, and crawled forward
+with the silence and stealth of Indian scouts. Despite the utmost care,
+their shoes made a slight noise now and then, and to avoid it, they took
+them off and shoved them in their belts.
+
+The exploit of Lieutenant Beale and Kit Carson was a most remarkable
+one in every respect. Frequently through the gloom they would catch the
+faint outlines of a sentinel, pacing back and forth. Instantly the two
+would lie flat on their faces until the man moved away, when the painful
+progress would be resumed.
+
+The slightest forgetfulness was certain to prove fatal, for the
+Mexicans, knowing the desperate straits of the Americans, must have
+been expecting some such attempt and were therefore more than usually
+watchful.
+
+Once a mounted Mexican rode close to the prostrate figures, sprang off
+his horse and lit his cigarette. He was so close that the tiny flame
+showed his nose and features, as it was held in front of his face, while
+lighting the twist of tobacco. During that most trying moment, as
+Kit Carson afterwards declared, he distinctly heard the beating of
+Lieutenant Beale's heart.
+
+There seemed no escape but finally the horseman drove away and the
+painful progress was continued for fully two miles, during which both
+men were constantly peering through the darkness for signs of danger.
+Again and again they were compelled to halt, and lying flat on their
+faces, wait till their fate was determined.
+
+"We are through," whispered Carson at last, when considerable distance
+beyond the last row of sentinels.
+
+"Thank heaven!" exclaimed Lieutenant Beale in the same guarded voice.
+
+"Now we'll put on our shoes and travel as fast as we know how to San
+Diego--"
+
+The mountaineer paused in dismay, for, while creeping over the plain, he
+had lost both his shoes that were thrust in his belt. The Lieutenant had
+been equally unfortunate, and, as it was utterly out of their power
+to recover them, they could only push on barefooted, over a soil that
+abounded with thorns and prickly pears. As these could not be seen in
+the darkness, their feet were soon wounded to a distressing degree. It
+was necessary to avoid the well beaten trails, so that the route was not
+only made longer, but much more difficult on account of the obstacles
+named.
+
+Yet they were working for a great stake. The lives of General Kearney
+and his brave men were in the balance. If Carson and Beale failed to
+bring help right speedily, they were doomed.
+
+All night long, through the succeeding day and far into the following
+night, the couple, worn, wearied and with bleeding feet, pushed ahead.
+When exhausted, they would halt for a brief while, but the thought of
+their imperilled comrades, and the fear that some of the Mexicans were
+pursuing them, speedily started them off again and they kept to their
+work with a grim resolution which heeded not fatigue, suffering and
+wounds.
+
+The only compass Carson had was his eye, but he was so familiar with the
+country that he never lost himself. The weary men were still trudging
+forward, when through the darkness ahead suddenly flashed out a
+star-like point of light. Several others appeared and a minute after
+they dotted the background of gloom like a constellation.
+
+"That's San Diego!" exclaimed Carson, who could not be mistaken. The
+couple could scarcely restrain their joy. New life and activity thrilled
+their bodies, and they hurried on with the same elastic eagerness they
+felt at the beginning.
+
+In a short while they were challenged by sentinels, and making known
+their mission, were taken before Commodore Stockton. That officer, with
+his usual promptness, sent a force of nearly two hundred men to the
+relief of General Kearney. They took with them a piece of ordnance which
+for want of horses the men themselves were forced to draw.
+
+They advanced by forced marches to the endangered Americans, scarcely
+pausing night or day, until in sight of the Mexicans, who considering
+discretion the better part of valor, withdrew without exchanging a shot
+with the naval brigade.
+
+As may be supposed, the feet of Carson and Beale were in a frightful
+condition, when they reached San Diego. The mountaineer, on that
+account, did not return with the reinforcements, but he described the
+course and location so minutely that no difficulty was experienced by
+the relieving force.
+
+Lieutenant Beale was a man of sturdy frame, accustomed to roughing it
+on the frontier, but the sufferings he underwent on that eventful night
+were such that he felt the effects for years afterward.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+
+ Capture of Los Angeles--Court Martial of Fremont--Carson Appointed a
+ Bearer of Dispatches to Washington--His Journey to St. Louis--Visits
+ Washington--Appointed Lieutenant by President Polk--Ordered Back Across
+ the Continent--His Journey--Assigned to Duty at Tajon Pass--Again
+ Ordered to Washington--His Appointment not Confirmed by the United
+ States Senate--Visit to Washington--Return to New Mexico.
+
+The chief force of the Mexicans was at Los Angeles over a hundred miles
+to the north of San Diego. They numbered six or seven hundred and were
+strongly intrenched. General Kearney and Commodore Stockton joined their
+commands and marched to attack them. Arriving in front of the town, they
+scattered the Mexicans intrenched on the outside, and then marched into
+the place. But the enemy had fled and gone northward to meet Fremont
+who was on his way from Monterey with four hundred men to attack Los
+Angeles.
+
+The Mexicans had not long to search when they found Fremont, but,
+instead of giving him battle, their commander surrendered, possibly
+preferring to give him the honor, instead of selecting the other
+commanders. Fremont continued his march to Los Angeles, where they went
+into winter quarters, and Carson, who had been devoting his valuable
+services to General Kearney, now rejoined his old friend, Fremont.
+
+It may be stated in this place that the jealousy between Commodore
+Stockton and General Kearney assumed such a shape at that time that
+Fremont was compelled to acknowledge either one or the other as his
+superior officer. He selected Commodore Stockton as the one to whom he
+owed superior allegiance. The result of the petty quarrel was the trial
+of Fremont by court martial, the particulars of which are too well known
+to require further reference at our hands.
+
+In the following March, Kit Carson was selected to carry despatches to
+Washington. Lieutenant Beale, who was still suffering from the exposure
+and hardships he had undergone, accompanied him, together with a guard
+of a dozen veteran mountaineers. Lieutenant Beale was so weak that
+Carson for many days was obliged to lift him on and off his horse; but
+the clear air, the healthful exercise and the cheery companionship of
+the hardy scout were the best tonics in the world, and probably did the
+invalid more good than any other treatment that could have been devised.
+
+Carson took an extremely southern route, and his superior skill and
+knowledge of the country and its inhabitants enabled him to avoid all
+danger until he reached a tributary of the lower Colorado. While in camp
+at midnight, they were assailed with a shower of arrows from a party
+of Indians; but, as Carson expected the attack, he had made such
+preparations that not one of his men were injured.
+
+Without any other incident worth the mention, Carson and his escort
+reached St. Louis. There the renowned mountaineer became the hero of
+the hour. He was taken at once to the home of Hon. Thomas H. Benton, the
+distinguished statesman and the father in law of Colonel Fremont, who
+introduced him to the leading Citizens.
+
+The first person to greet Carson when he stepped from the cars in
+Washington was Mrs. Fremont, who recognized him from the description
+given by her husband in his letters. She compelled him to accompany her
+to the house of her father, where he remained an honored guest during
+his stay in Washington, which was for a considerable time.
+
+Among the compliments paid Carson while in the capital was that of his
+appointment by President Polk, as lieutenant in the rifle corps of the
+United States army, and he was ordered to return across the continent
+with despatches. At Fort Leavenworth, Carson was furnished with an
+escort of fifty men who were volunteers in the war against Mexico.
+
+The journey westward was marked by no stirring incident until he reached
+the eastern declivity of the Rocky Mountains, where a company of United
+States Volunteers were overtaken. They had in charge an enormous train
+of wagons on the way to New Mexico. On the morning after the encampment
+of Carson near them, the Indians made an attack upon the volunteers,
+capturing all their cattle and more than twenty horses. The mountaineer
+and his men dashed to the rescue, recaptured all the cattle, but were
+unable to retake the horses.
+
+Shortly after, Carson and his company reached Santa Fe. There he parted
+from the volunteers and hired sixteen others with which he continued the
+journey, thereby obeying the instructions received at Fort Leavenworth.
+
+Pursuing the even tenor of his way, he arrived at a tributary of the
+Virgin River, when he abruptly came upon an encampment of several
+hundred Comanches, who, as Carson happened to know, had massacred a
+number of settlers only a short time before. Understanding as thoroughly
+as he did the treacherous nature of these people, he made a bold front,
+and, when they attempted to visit his camp, peremptorily ordered them to
+keep away.
+
+He added that he knew all about them, and the first one who moved closer
+would be shot. Furthermore, if they did not depart, within a specified
+time, he notified them that they would be fired upon. These were such
+audacious words that the Comanches doubted their sincerity. To test it,
+some of them overstayed their time. Not wishing to break his pledge,
+Carson ordered his men to fire, One of the warriors fell, while several
+others, who were badly wounded, came to the conclusion that when the
+great mountaineer made a statement there was likely to be considerable
+truth in it.
+
+Food soon became so scarce that mule meat formed the only diet until
+they reached Los Angeles. Carson pushed on to Monterey where he
+delivered the despatches to the proper officer, and then returning to
+Los Angeles he was assigned to duty in Captain Smith's Company of
+United States dragoons. He was given command of twenty-five dragoons and
+directed to proceed to Tajon Pass, through which marauding Indians were
+accustomed to pass when returning from their raids in California. It
+was an important point, and the winter of 1847-48 was spent in the
+performance of the duties thus placed upon him. In the spring, he was
+once more ordered to carry despatches to Washington, an escort being
+furnished him as in the previous instance.
+
+In crossing Grand River, one of the rafts became unmanageable, upset,
+losing considerable valuable property and endangering the lives of a
+number of the company. A large force of Utah and Apache Indians were
+encountered, but Carson managed them with the same skill he had shown
+them so many times before.
+
+On arriving at Taos, he spent several days with his family and friends,
+after which he proceeded to Santa Fe. There he learned that the United
+States Senate had refused to confirm his nomination as lieutenant in
+the army. Many of his friends were so angered over this slight that they
+urged him to refuse to carry the despatches further; but his reply, as
+given by Dr. Peters, is so admirable that we quote it:
+
+"I was entrusted with these despatches, having been chosen in
+California, from whence I come, as the most competent person to take
+them through safely. I would try to fulfill this duty even if I knew it
+would cost me my life. It matters not to me, while I am performing this
+service for my country, whether I hold the rank of lieutenant in the
+United States Army or am known merely as an experienced mountaineer. I
+have gained some little honor and credit for the manner in which I
+have always conducted myself when detailed on any special and important
+business, and I would on no account now wish to forfeit the good opinion
+formed of me by a majority of my countrymen because the United States
+Senate did not deem it proper to confer on me an appointment which I
+never solicited, and one which, had it been confirmed, I would have
+resigned at the termination of the war."
+
+Having determined to perform his duty, he made careful inquiries as to
+the state of feeling among the Indians through whose country the trail
+led. The reports were of the most alarming character: the Comanches were
+on the war path with a vengeance. They were swarming all along the old
+Santa Fe Trail, on the watch for parties whom they could overwhelm and
+destroy.
+
+Such being the case, Carson resorted to the bold artifice of making a
+trail of his own. He reduced his escort to ten experienced mountaineers
+and then struck out upon his new route. He rode northward from Taos
+until within a region rarely visited by hostiles, when he changed his
+course by the compass several times. By this means, he reached Fort
+Kearney on the Platte and finally arrived at Fort Leavenworth. Not only
+had he avoided all trouble with Indians, but by following the new route,
+had found abundance of game so that the entire trip was but little more
+than a pleasure excursion.
+
+All danger was over at Fort Leavenworth, where he parted from his escort
+and went alone to Washington. Previous to this, the war with Mexico
+had ended, the treaty of peace having been signed February 2, 1848, and
+proclaimed on the 4th of July following.
+
+Carson tarried in Washington only long enough to deliver his despatches
+to the proper authorities, when he turned about and made his way to
+Taos, New Mexico, where he joined once more his family and friends.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+
+ Hostility of the Apaches--Colonel Beale Sends an Expedition Against
+ Them--Nothing Accomplished--Colonel Beale Leads an Expedition with
+ Carson as Guide--Capture and Release of Two Chiefs--March to the
+ Arkansas--Another Failure--Carson and Maxwell Build a Ranche--Fremont's
+ Fourth Expedition--The Murderous Apaches--A Fruitless Pursuit.
+
+Kit Carson was one of those whose destiny seems to be that of stirring
+incident and adventure. No man possessed such an intimate knowledge of
+the manners, customs and peculiarities of the tribes in the southwest,
+and with his exceptional woodcraft, skill and high courage his services
+were always indispensable.
+
+While he was at Taos, the Indians around him were restless until the
+whole country was seething and on the verge of a general revolt.
+Colonel Beale, commanding officer of the district, had established his
+headquarters at Taos. The Apaches committed so many outrages that he
+believed the only course open was to administer a thorough chastisement;
+but it was tenfold easier to reach such a conclusion than it was to
+carry it out. A strong force having been despatched to bring them to
+account, pursued them to the mountains from which they were compelled to
+return without accomplishing anything at all. The subsequent history of
+these Apaches and of General Crook's campaign against them are
+familiar enough to all to justify the declaration that they have proven
+themselves the bravest and most formidable tribe that has defied the
+United States government during the past half century.
+
+Disappointed that the officer whom he sent failed to do anything,
+Colonel Beale took command himself and employed Kit Carson as guide.
+Instead of stopping in the mountains because they were blocked with
+snow, as the former expedition had done, Colonel Beale forced his way
+with great difficulty through them. The search for the Indians was long
+but fruitless. The cunning red skins were at home in their fastnesses
+and not a solitary warrior was bagged.
+
+As the supply of provisions was running low, Colonel Beale was forced to
+return and retrace his steps. On their return, they came upon a village
+of Apaches into which the soldiers charged; but the nimble warriors
+easily got away, with the exception of a couple of chiefs who fell into
+the hands of the Americans. Hoping to rouse the chivalry and gratitude
+of their nature, Colonel Beale lectured them kindly and after their
+promise to behave themselves, allowed them to depart. As soon as they
+were beyond rifle shot, they must have grinned with exultation, for it
+was not their nature to repay kindness with anything but cruelty.
+
+As Colonel Beale could not accomplish anything during the winter months,
+he returned to Taos, where he remained until February, when, learning
+that a large force of Indians were congregated on the Arkansas, with a
+number of Mexican captives, he went thither intending to retake them
+by force, if they could not be secured by peaceable means. He had two
+companies of dragoons, and as before, engaged Carson as guide.
+
+When he reached the Arkansas, he found himself confronted by two
+thousand Indians who had gathered to meet their agent and probably to
+consult as to their future movements. The agent was present and was a
+man of practical sense and experience. He told Colonel Beale that it
+would never do to demand the prisoners, for the Indians were in ugly
+temper and if aroused, would massacre the whole command. Colonel Beale
+himself was resentful, and very much disposed to give the red men
+battle, but he suffered himself to be dissuaded from carrying out his
+original purpose.
+
+When Carson returned once more to Taos, he reflected that he was
+approaching middle life, and as he now had quite a family, he was
+anxious to provide something for them. Though he had rendered services
+beyond value to the United States government, and to different
+individuals, he had not received enough compensation to place them
+above want should he become disabled. About this time, his old friend,
+Maxwell, proposed that they should build a ranch in a beautiful valley
+some distance north of Taos. The site was a most charming one, though it
+was so much exposed to the attack of Indians that until then no one had
+dared to settle there.
+
+Handsome, roomy and substantial structures were erected, and many of the
+most enjoyable days of their lives were spent on this famous ranche. It
+would be a pleasant farewell to leave them there to end their days
+in comfort and peace, but it was to be far otherwise with both and
+especially with Carson.
+
+In 1848-49, Colonel Fremont made a fourth exploring expedition across
+the continent, he bearing all the expense, as he did in the case of
+his fifth expedition made in 1853. The fourth was an appalling failure,
+marked by an extremity of suffering that is incredible. The guide
+employed was wholly ignorant and the command became entangled among the
+snows of the mountains, where some of them lived not only on mules
+but on each other. The strongest lay down and died, and the horrible
+features of Fremont's fourth expedition were only approached by that
+of Lieutenant Strain on the Isthmus of Darien. When the few ghastly
+survivors staggered out of the mountains they tottered to Carson's
+ranche, where they received the kindest treatment from him who had
+served Fremont so faithfully on his former expeditions.
+
+Carson had been on his ranche but a short time, when news reached him of
+a most atrocious murder by the Apaches. A wealthy merchant was returning
+in his private carriage with his wife and child from the United States
+to Santa Fe. He was accompanied by a small escort and the wagon train
+carrying his goods. When he believed all danger past, he hurried forward
+with his family, who were becoming tired of the journey.
+
+At a point where there was no suspicion of danger, the Apaches fired
+upon the carriage, killing every one who accompanied it, including the
+merchant himself. The wife and child were made prisoners and carried
+away. Shortly after the little one was tomahawked and thrown into the
+river.
+
+When news of the outrage reached New Mexico, a party was hastily
+organized and started out in the hope of saving the woman and punishing
+the wretches who had committed the murders. When Carson learned of what
+was contemplated, he offered his services. They were accepted, but much
+to the surprise of his friends, he was given an inferior position. It
+was characteristic of the splendid scout that he did not show by word or
+look that he felt the slightest resentment on account of the slight.
+
+With a less skilful leader than himself, Carson galloped with
+the company to the scene of the murder. The sight was frightfully
+suggestive: pieces of harness, band boxes, trunks, strips of blood
+stained clothing, and fragments of the carriage attested the untamable
+ferocity of the Apaches who had swooped down on the doomed party like a
+cyclone.
+
+From that point the trail was taken and the infuriated mountaineers
+urged their steeds to the utmost, knowing the value of every hour and
+that in the case of a fight with the Indians a surprise is half the
+battle.
+
+Day after day the pursuit was maintained until nearly two weeks had gone
+by, before the first glimpse of a warrior was obtained. The trail was
+one of the worst imaginable, and, had the pursuers been less skilful,
+they would have been baffled almost from the first. At certain points,
+the Apaches would break up into parties of two or three that would take
+different routes, reuniting at some place many miles beyond where water
+was known to be. This was done repeatedly, with a view of disconcerting
+any avengers who might take their trail, and it is a tribute to the
+ability of the mountaineers that the cunning artifice failed, so far as
+they were concerned, of its purpose.
+
+At last the Apaches were descried in the distance. Carson was the
+first to discover them, he being some distance in advance. Knowing how
+necessary it was to surprise them he shouted to his companions to charge
+at once. Not doubting he would be followed, he dashed ahead with his
+horse on a dead run, but looking over his shoulder when he had gone part
+way, he saw to his consternation he was alone.
+
+Angered and impatient, he rode back to learn what it meant. The chief
+guide had directed the men to wait as there was no doubt the Apaches
+desired to hold a parley. It meant the next moment in the shape of
+a bullet from the Indians which struck the leader in the breast and
+rendered him senseless. As soon as he recovered, he ordered his men to
+make the attack and leave him to himself.
+
+He was obeyed, but the delay was fatal. On charging into the camp they
+were able to kill only one warrior. The body of the woman was found
+still warm, showing that she had been slain only a brief while before.
+
+All those acquainted with the particulars of this sad affair agreed that
+had the advice of Carson been followed the poor lady might have been
+saved.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+
+ The Wounded Herder--A Successful Pursuit--An Atrocious Plot--How it
+ was Frustrated--Gratitude of the Gentlemen Whom Carson was the Means of
+ Saving From Death.
+
+Carson returned to his ranche where he spent the winter. One day in
+spring a wounded herder managed to reach the place with the news that
+he and his companion, stationed a few miles away, had been attacked by
+Apaches, who wounded both, and ran off all the horses and mules.
+
+A squad of ten dragoons and a sergeant were on guard near Carson's
+ranche. They and three settlers, including Carson, started at once in
+pursuit. It was so late in the day that when they came to the place
+where the outrage had been committed, it was dark and they went into
+camp; but they were astir at the earliest dawn, and soon striking the
+trail of the thieves, put their animals to a keen gallop. Some twenty
+miles further, the Apaches were described a long distance away. As it
+was upon the open prairie the contest at once resolved itself into an
+open chase.
+
+It was no time to spare the animals, whose rapid gait was increased
+until it became a killing pace. The pursuers were steadily gaining, when
+four of their horses succumbed and their riders, much to their chagrin,
+were shut out from the impending fray. The others had no time to stop:
+they could simply shout goodbye to them and spur their steeds to
+greater exertions. Fortunately the pursuers were better mounted than the
+fugitives who numbered a full score. With a bravery characteristic
+of their tribe, they clung to their stolen property, preferring to be
+overtaken and forced into a fight rather than abandon it.
+
+As soon as the parties were within rifle range, the battle began
+and became of the most exciting character. The Apaches were splendid
+horsemen and displayed great skill. They threw themselves on the far
+side of their steeds, firing from under the neck, and keeping their
+bodies so well concealed that it was a difficult task to bring them
+down.
+
+But the white men were accustomed to that sort of work, and the Apaches
+learned a lesson they never forgot. Five of their best warriors were
+killed, several badly wounded and nearly all the animals recaptured. Kit
+Carson directed every movement of his men and to that fact their great
+success was due.
+
+The mountaineer was favored with prosperous times on his ranche. He and
+a companion drove fifty head of mules and horses to Fort Laramie,
+where they were disposed of at a liberal profit. The round journey of
+a thousand miles was attended with much danger, but it was accomplished
+without mishap.
+
+He reached home just in time to learn that the Apaches had visited the
+little settlement and run off all the animals. But as enough soldiers
+were within call, a pursuit was soon organized and very nearly all the
+stock was recovered.
+
+Some months later an officer of the United States Army in Taos learned
+of a most atrocious plot that was on foot. Two wealthy gentlemen,
+travelling leisurely through that section of the country, had engaged an
+American named Fox to hire enough men to escort them across the plains.
+This Fox was one of the most conscienceless wretches and desperadoes
+that ever lived. He formed a scheme to murder the two gentlemen at a
+certain point on the plains and to divide their money among him and his
+companions. Those whom he secured were taken into his confidence and
+agreed to the crime before hand.
+
+Among those to whom he applied was a miscreant in Taos, who, for some
+reason, refused to go with him. However, he kept the secret until
+sure the entire party were so far out on the plains that nothing could
+prevent the perpetration of the crime. He then told it to several
+associates, one of whom made it known to the officer of whom we have
+spoken.
+
+This gentleman was horrified, and uncertain what could be done, if
+indeed he could do anything, hastened to Kit Carson, to whom he made
+known the story. The mountaineer listened eagerly, and, as soon as he
+grasped the whole plot, declared there was reason to believe it was not
+too late to frustrate it. With that wonderful intuition which was such a
+marked characteristic of his nature, he fixed upon the very place where
+it had been decided the crime was to be committed. Knowing the entire
+route, it was easy to determine the spot most likely to be selected,
+which was more than two hundred miles distant. Instead, therefore, of
+following the trail, he struck directly across the open prairie by the
+most direct course to his destination.
+
+Ten finely mounted dragoons accompanied, all ready for any deed of
+daring. The route led through a country where the Indians were very
+hostile, but they were avoided with little difficulty. The second night
+out, they came upon the encampment of a detachment of United States
+troops, whose captain volunteered to take twenty of his soldiers and
+help bring the desperadoes to justice.
+
+The expedition was a complete success. They overtook the party at the
+very spot fixed upon, and Fox was arrested before he suspected the
+business of the strangers in camp. When the overthrow of the wretches
+was complete, the gentlemen were told the story. They were speechless
+for a moment and could not believe it; but the proof was complete, and
+they turned pale at the thought of the fate they had escaped.
+
+Their gratitude was unbounded. Taking the hand of Carson they begged him
+to name some reward he would accept, but the mountaineer shook his head.
+
+"I am more than repaid in being able to help frustrate such a crime as
+was contemplated; I cannot think of accepting anything of the kind you
+name."
+
+The gentlemen, however, could not forget that under heaven, they owed
+their lives to Kit Carson. The following spring a couple of splendid
+revolvers arrived at the mountaineer's ranche addressed to him.
+Beautifully engraved on them were a few sentences expressive of the
+feelings of the donors and the special occasion which called forth the
+gift.
+
+It is easy to understand how much more acceptable such an
+acknowledgement was to Kit Carson than any sum of money could have been.
+
+Fox was lodged in jail, but though there was no doubt of his guilt in
+the minds of every one, yet the meditated crime was so difficult to
+establish that ultimately he was set free.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+
+ Carson Visits St. Louis on Business--Encounter with Cheyenne on
+ his Return--His Sagacity Does not Fail Him--Carson's Last Beaver
+ Expedition--His California Speculation.
+
+Maxwell, the mountaineer and intimate friend of Carson, was quite
+wealthy and was of great assistance in several schemes which they
+undertook in partnership. One of their enterprises was that of sending a
+train of wagons belonging to the two to the States. Carson took charge,
+and, jogging along at a comfortable rate, they reached in due time the
+Missouri, where he went by steamboat to St. Louis. There he purchased
+a large amount of merchandise which was taken up stream on the boat,
+transferred to his wagon train, and the faces of all were then turned
+toward New Mexico.
+
+Everything went well until they approached the fording of the Arkansas,
+when they came upon a large village of Cheyenne Indians. Unfortunately
+some days before, a company of recruits had shown such cruelty toward
+several warriors belonging to that tribe, that they were roused to the
+highest point of fury, and were only waiting an opportunity to visit
+punishment on the first whites that came in their way.
+
+Carson knew nothing of the occurrence nor did he know of the bitter
+hostility of the Cheyennes, but when they went into council, and he
+overheard some expressions, he saw that something was wrong. He warned
+his men to be ready for instant attack, never permitting the Indians to
+catch them off their guard for a single moment.
+
+The warriors fell behind, but after awhile, a number rode up on
+horseback. They were in their war paint and there could be no doubt of
+their hostility. Carson spoke in a conciliating manner and invited them
+into his camp to have a smoke and talk. The invitation was accepted.
+The hypocritical ceremony continued some time, when the warriors began
+talking among themselves.
+
+They spoke in Sioux at first, their purpose being to lay the impending
+massacre against those people, but in their excitement, they dropped
+back to their own tongue and the whole appalling truth became speedily
+known to Carson and through him to his companions.
+
+He sat on the ground with the furious warriors, and heard them agree
+that at the moment the leader (as they recognized Carson to be), laid
+down his arms to take the pipe in his mouth, they would leap upon and
+kill him. They would then massacre all the rest. Inasmuch as they were
+powerful enough to carry out this diabolical plan, it will be admitted
+that Carson's nerves were pretty thoroughly tested, when the pipe
+passing from one to the other was within a few minutes of reaching him.
+
+Most of the men with the mountaineer were Mexicans, very deficient in
+courage and in a hand to hand encounter, the Cheyennes could overcome
+the party in the space of a few minutes.
+
+It was in such crises as these that the remarkable fertility of
+resources possessed by Kit Carson displayed themselves. He seemed to
+perceive by intuition the wisest course to adopt and that perception
+came to him the instant the demand for it appeared.
+
+Rising to his feet and grasping his weapons, he strode to the middle of
+the group and astounded them by beginning his address in their native
+tongue. He reminded them that that was proof he comprehended every word
+uttered by them. He spoke as if grieved by their course, for he insisted
+he had never wronged any one of their tribe, but on the contrary had
+been their friend. He then commanded them to leave the camp without
+delay or they would be riddled with bullets.
+
+Carson's blue eyes flashed and his face was like a thunder cloud. It was
+the Cheyennes who were surprised and they could but obey orders, though
+from their manner, it was clear the trouble was not yet ended. They
+withdrew and went into council, while Carson and his friends pushed
+rapidly forward.
+
+The peril in which this little command was placed could not be
+overestimated. There were not twenty men all told and except two or
+three, were Mexicans who in no respect were the superiors if indeed
+they were the equals of the Cheyennes. Had Carson been absent a score of
+warriors could have charged into camp and slain every one. Instead of
+a score there were several hundred of them: if they chose to make the
+attack he knew there was no escape.
+
+The horses, therefore, were lashed to do their utmost. The train pushed
+forward with all speed, while the apprehensive leader continually
+glanced back over the prairie, almost certain of seeing the Cheyennes
+galloping toward them. When night came, there was little sleep in camp.
+Nearly every one stood on guard, but the night and the following day
+passed without molestation.
+
+Convinced beyond question that the attack would be made unless some
+extraordinary means was taken to avert it, Carson took one of the
+fleetest footed Mexican boys outside the camp, and, pointing in the
+direction of the ranche of himself and Maxwell, nearly three hundred
+miles away, told him he must make all speed thither, and tell the
+soldiers that unless they hurried to his help he and all his companions
+were doomed to certain death at the hands of an overwhelming war party
+of Cheyennes. Everything depended on the quickness with which the
+Mexican youth brought assistance. The latter being promised a liberal
+reward, bounded away with the fleetness of a deer, and quickly vanished
+in the gloom. He went on foot because he could travel faster and last
+longer than could any animal in camp that he might ride.
+
+Carson went back to his friends and kept watch until morning. As soon
+as it came to light, the animals were hitched to the wagons and urged
+forward again to the fullest extent of their ability.
+
+Some hours later, several Cheyenne horsemen were seen riding rapidly
+toward them. When a hundred yards distant, Carson compelled them to
+halt. Then he allowed them to come closer and told them he had lost
+patience with their annoyances, and the night before had sent an express
+to Rayado (where his ranche was built), asking the troops to see that
+the persecution was stopped. Should it so happen that the soldiers
+came and found the party massacred, they would take the trail of the
+Cheyennes and punish them for what they had done.
+
+The cunning Indians, before accepting the statement of the leader, said
+they would examine the prairie for the trail of the messenger. Carson
+assisted them in the search, and it did not take long to find the
+moccasin tracks. A brief scrutiny also satisfied the warriors he had
+started so many hours before, that it was useless to try to overtake
+him.
+
+The result was the attack and massacre were not made, and, though the
+assistance which was asked was sent, yet it was not needed. One of
+the two experienced mountaineers with Carson on that eventful journey,
+declared afterward, that had any other living man than he been at the
+head of the party not one would have escaped. The achievement certainly
+ranks among the most extraordinary of the many performed by a most
+extraordinary man.
+
+It would be thought that after such an experience, Carson would be
+content to settle down and give his entire attention to his ranche.
+While it cannot be said that he neglected his duties as a farmer, yet
+he loved the mountains and prairies too well ever to abandon them
+altogether.
+
+He and Maxwell, his old friend, determined on having one more old
+fashioned beaver hunt, such as they were accustomed to a score of years
+before. They did not mean it should be child's play and they admitted no
+amateur hunters and trappers: all were veterans of years' standing, and,
+when the party was fully made up, they numbered about a score.
+
+The expedition was a memorable one. They fixed upon one of the longest
+and most dangerous routes, which included many Rocky Mountain streams
+and involved every possible kind of danger.
+
+In one respect, the party were pleasantly disappointed. Years before the
+beavers had been so effectively cleaned out that they expected to find
+very few if any; but because the business had been so little followed
+for so long a time, the animals had increased very fast and therefore
+the trappers met with great success.
+
+They began operation on the South Fork of the Platte and finally ended
+on the Arkansas. They were gone many weeks and when they returned to
+their homes, nearly if not all felt that they had engaged on their last
+trapping expedition.
+
+Carson had not wrought very long on his ranche, when he learned of the
+scarcity and high prices of sheep in California. He at once set about
+collecting several thousand, hired a number of men and drove the herd
+to Fort Laramie: thence he made his way by the old emigrant trail to
+California where he disposed of the sheep at prices which brought him a
+profit of several thousand dollars.
+
+While in San Francisco, he visited a prominent restaurant where he
+ordered a good substantial dinner for six persons. When it was ready he
+surveyed it for a moment with satisfaction, and, seating himself at the
+table, disposed of it all. His journey across the plains had given him a
+somewhat vigorous appetite.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+
+ In San Francisco--The Return Homeward--The Mormon Delegate Gives Carson
+ Some Interesting Information--Carson's First Stirring Duties as Indian
+ Agent--The Affection of the Red Men for Father Kit.
+
+Kit Carson's old friend, Maxwell, who had been his companion in so
+many stirring adventures, joined him in San Francisco, whose marvellous
+growth even at that remote day was a continual surprise and delight. As
+the two veteran mountaineers made their way through the streets, where
+but a few years before all was a wild, untrodden wilderness, they paused
+and indulged in many wondering exclamations as though they were a couple
+of countrymen visiting the metropolis for the first time in their lives.
+
+The couple concluded to make their way home by the southern route,
+passing in the neighborhood of the Gila; but the distance could be
+shortened so much by taking the steamer to Los Angeles that Maxwell
+decided to adopt that course. When he asked Carson to join him the
+mountaineer shook his head.
+
+"I got enough of that in 1846," he said, alluding to his brief voyage,
+when serving under Fremont in California, at the beginning of the
+Mexican war; "I never was so sick in all my life."
+
+"You ain't likely to be sick again," plead Maxwell; "and, if you are,
+it don't last long. You'll save two or three weeks in time and enjoy
+yourself much more."
+
+But it was no use: Carson said he never would venture upon salt water
+again, and he would rather ride a thousand miles on the back of a mule
+than to sail a hundred in a ship. Accordingly, the party separated for
+the time and Maxwell took steamer to Los Angeles, where he arrived fully
+two weeks in advance of Carson, who rode into the quaint old town on the
+back of a somewhat antiquated mule.
+
+They were soon ready for their long ride, when they struck a leisurely
+pace and all went well until they reached the Gila. There they entered
+a region which had been visited by one of those droughts which continue
+sometimes for many months. The grass was so dry and parched that it
+contained scarcely any nourishment, and the friendly Pimos told them
+if they pushed on their animals were sure to die of starvation. It was
+impossible to doubt these statements and Carson therefore proposed a
+new route, which though very rough and difficult in some places, would
+furnish all the forage that was required.
+
+The course led them along the Gila to the mouth of the San Pedro, and
+finally with little difficulty they reached the copper mines of
+New Mexico. Shortly after Carson encountered the Mormon delegate to
+Congress. During the exchange of courtesies, the gentleman conveyed the
+interesting information that he--Carson--had been made Indian Agent for
+New Mexico.
+
+The news was a surprise and a great pleasure to the mountaineer. He had
+no thought of any such honor and with all his modesty could not but feel
+that he was eminently fitted for the performance of its duties. No
+one had travelled so extensively through the west, and no one could
+understand the nature of native Americans better than he. A hundred
+tribes knew of "Father Kit," as he soon came to be called, and they
+referred to him as a man who never spoke with a "double tongue," and who
+was just toward them at all times. He had ventured among the hostiles
+more than once where the bravest white man dared not follow him, and
+had spent days and nights in their lodges without being offered the
+slightest indignity. Kit Carson was brave, truthful, kind and honest.
+
+Aside from the gratification which one naturally feels, when receiving
+an appointment that is pleasant in every respect, and which he holds
+thoroughly "in hand," as may be said, the honest mountaineer was
+especially delighted over the thought that his government conferred it
+without any solicitation on his part.
+
+But the man who accepts the position of Indian Agent and conscientiously
+attends to its duties has no sinecure on his hands. Many of them use
+it as such while others do still worse, thereby sowing the seeds which
+speedily develop into Indian outrages, massacres and wars.
+
+When Carson reached Taos, he had his official bond made out, and sent
+it with his thanks and acceptance of his appointment to the proper
+authorities in Washington.
+
+The Indian Agent for New Mexico had scarcely entered upon his new
+duties, when trouble came. A branch of the Apaches became restless and
+committed a number of outrages on citizens. Stern measures only would
+answer and a force of dragoons were sent against them. They dealt them
+a severe blow, killing one of their most famous chiefs, besides a
+considerable number of warriors.
+
+Instead of quieting the tribe, it rather intensified their anger, though
+they remained quiescent for a time through fear. Not long after, Carson
+was notified that a large party of the tribe were encamped in the
+mountains, less than twenty miles from Taos. He decided at once to
+supplement the work of the sword with the gentle arguments of peace.
+
+This proceeding on the part of the Indian Agent is one deserving of
+special notice, for it shows no less the bravery of Carson than it does
+the philanthropic spirit which actuated him at all times in his dealings
+with the red men. Alas, that so few of our officials today deem his
+example worth their imitation.
+
+The venture was so dangerous that Carson went alone, unwilling that any
+one else should run the risk. When he arrived at their encampment,
+he made his way without delay to the presence of the leaders, whom he
+saluted in the usual elaborate fashion, and then proceeded to state the
+important business that took him thither.
+
+Nearly every warrior in camp recognized the short, thickset figure and
+the broad, pleasant face when they presented themselves. They knew he
+was one of the most terrible warriors that ever charged through a camp
+of red men. He had met them many a time in fierce warfare, but he always
+fought warriors and not papooses and squaws. He was the bravest of the
+brave and therefore they respected him.
+
+But he was a truthful and just man. He had never lied to them, as most
+of the white men did, and he had shown his confidence in them by walking
+alone and unattended into the very heart of their encampment. They were
+eager to rend to shreds every pale face upon whom they could lay hands,
+but "Father Kit" was safe within their lodges and wigwams.
+
+Carson made an admirable speech. He at first caused every serpent-like
+eye to sparkle, by his delicate flattery. Then he tried hard to convince
+them that their hostility to the whites could result only in injury
+to themselves, since the Great Father at Washington had hundreds and
+thousands of warriors whom he would send to replace such as might lose
+their lives. Then, when he made known that the same Great Father had
+appointed him to see that justice was done them, they grinned with
+delight and gathering around, overwhelmed him with congratulations.
+
+The Agent insisted that they should prove their sincerity by pledging to
+follow the line of conduct he had lain down, and they did so with such
+readiness that a superficial observer would have declared the mission a
+complete success.
+
+But Kit Carson thought otherwise. He knew the inherent treachery of the
+aboriginal nature, and his estimate of Apache loyalty was the true
+one. The most that he was warranted in feeling was the hope that those
+furious warriors would be less aggressive than had been their custom.
+Though they had expressed a willingness to make any agreement which he
+might propose, yet it was their very willingness to do so which caused
+his distrust. Had they been more argumentative and more tenacious of
+their rights, their sincerity might have been credited.
+
+The Agent could have secured their consent almost to any agreement, but
+the sagacious official asked as little as he could.
+
+"And I don't believe they mean to keep even that agreement," he
+muttered, as he bade the effusive sachems and warriors goodbye and made
+his way back to Taos.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+
+ Trouble With the Apaches--Defeat of the Soldiers--Colonel Cook's
+ Expedition Against Them--It Meets With Only Partial Success--Major
+ Brooks' Attempt to Punish the Apaches--A Third Expedition.
+
+Just as Carson suspected, the Apaches were insincere in their
+professions of good will toward the settlers. He had scarcely reached
+home, when they renewed their outrages. The sinewy horsemen, as daring
+as the Crusaders who invaded the Holy Land, seemed to be everywhere.
+We have already referred to those extraordinary warriors, who, for many
+years have caused our Government more trouble in the southwest than all
+the other tribes combined, and it is not necessary, therefore, to
+say that when any branch of the Apaches went on the war path the most
+frightful scenes were sure to follow.
+
+Carson knew when to be gentle and when to be stern. If the former
+measures failed, he did not hesitate to use the latter. Coercive means
+were taken, but, in the first encounter between the red men and the
+United States troops, the latter were decisively defeated.
+
+As a consequence, the Apaches became more troublesome than ever. Colonel
+Cook of the Second Regiment of United States Dragoons, was sent against
+them. He selected Kit Carson for his guide. The Agent's wish, it may
+be said, was to learn whether any other tribe was concerned in the
+outrages, and in no way could he do it as well as by accompanying the
+expedition, which was fully organized by the selection of a number of
+Pueblo Indians to act as scouts and spies. These were placed under the
+immediate command of the well known James H. Quinn, who died some time
+later.
+
+The force proceeded northward from Taos to the stream known as the
+Arroya Hondo. This was followed to the Rio del Norte, which being very
+high, was crossed with much difficulty. As an illustration of the rugged
+work which such expeditions were called upon to undergo, Dr. Peters
+says that when they struggled to the other shore, they found themselves
+confronted by a mass of solid and almost perpendicular rocks, fully six
+hundred feet high. This was ascended, after the most exhausting labor,
+by means of a zigzag trail, and the journey was pushed over a rough
+and diversified country. Grass and water could not be found until they
+reached a small Mexican town where they were enabled to buy what was so
+sadly needed. Men and animals were so worn out that they rested for an
+entire day.
+
+The next morning the line of march was taken up, and they had not gone
+far when Carson discovered a trail. This was followed with renewed vigor
+and a couple of days later the Indians were overtaken. They did not
+attempt any stand against such a strong force, but took to flight at
+once. The Apaches used their utmost endeavors to get away and they
+were helped by the roughness of the country. They were pressed so hard,
+however, that they lost most of their horses and plunder besides a
+number of warriors.
+
+Two Americans were wounded, one of whom shortly died; but the soldiers
+having "located" the Indians, as may be said, did not give over their
+efforts to punish them. Pursuit was resumed at earliest daylight and men
+and animals did everything possible. Over mountains, through ravines,
+around rocks, up and down declivities, the chase continued, until the
+cunning Apaches resorted to their old tricks: they dissolved, as may
+be said, into their "original elements"--that is, they began separating
+until there were almost as many different trails as there were warriors.
+Then in their flight, they selected the worst possible ground. Being
+familiar with the country and possessing far more endurance than the
+ordinary Indian, it soon became clear that the marauders were beyond
+reach.
+
+Accordingly Colonel Cook ordered the pursuit discontinued and they
+headed toward the nearest Mexican village, where forage and rest could
+be secured for the animals. When the place was reached, Colonel Cook
+learned of a serious mistake made by the party who were transporting
+the soldier wounded several days before. They discovered an Indian whom,
+after some difficulty, they captured. His horse and arms were taken from
+him under the supposition that he was one of the hostile Apaches. He
+was not treated very gently and watching his opportunity, he made his
+escape. It was afterwards learned that the warrior was a Utah, with whom
+the white men were at peace.
+
+The Utahs were of a war-like nature and Colonel Cook was apprehensive
+they would use the occurrence as a pretext for joining the Apaches
+in their attack upon the settlers. He therefore sent Carson to the
+headquarters of his agency to do what he could to explain the matter and
+make all the reparation in his power.
+
+As soon as he arrived at Taos, Carson sent a messenger with a request
+that the Utah chiefs would come and have a talk with him. They were
+always glad to meet Father Kit face to face. The agent told how the
+mistake was made, expressed the regret of himself and Colonel Cook and
+ended by restoring the property and by distributing a few presents among
+the chiefs. The business was managed with such tact that the sachems
+expressed themselves perfectly satisfied and their affection and
+admiration for Father Kit became greater than before.
+
+Colonel Cook was unwilling to return without striking a more effective
+blow against the Apaches. Pausing only long enough, therefore, to rest
+and recruit his men and horses, he resumed the hunt. He had not gone
+far, when he struck another trail which was followed with great vigor;
+but before anything of the Indians could be discovered, it began
+snowing. In a few minutes the flakes were eddying all around them, the
+wind blowing so furiously that the men could hardly see each other, as
+they bent their heads and rode slowly against it. This rendered pursuit
+out of the question, because the trail was entirely hidden. Much against
+his will Colonel Cook was forced to give up the pursuit.
+
+He made his way to a small town lying on his route, where he met Major
+Brooks, who was marching to his help with reinforcements. The latter
+officer instead of returning with Colonel Cook, decided to take up the
+hunt himself for the hostiles.
+
+With little delay, a fresh trail was found and an energetic pursuit
+began. It was plain the Indians were making for the Utah country,
+and they were pursued without difficulty; but, when that section was
+reached, the soldiers came upon so many trails, which crossed and
+recrossed so many times that all individuality was lost. The most
+skilful scouts in the company were unable to identify or follow any one
+with certainty.
+
+The situation was exasperating, but there was no help for it and the
+command was compelled to turn about and make their way home, having been
+in the field more than two weeks without accomplishing anything at all.
+
+But it was known that the Apaches would speedily reorganize and the
+soldiers had but to wait a short while, when an opportunity would be
+presented for striking an effective blow. When a sufficient period had
+elapsed, another expedition was sent out under the command of Major
+Carleton, of the First Regiment of United States Dragoons. He engaged
+Kit Carson to act as his guide.
+
+The force marched northward about a hundred miles to Fort Massachusetts,
+where all the arrangements were completed. The party was divided, the
+spies under Captain Quinn being sent to examine the country on the west
+side of the White Mountains, while the Major decided to inspect the
+territory to the eastward of the range.
+
+Captain Quinn with his skilful trailers moved up the San Luis Valley
+until he reached the famous Mosco Pass, which was often used by the
+Apaches when hard pressed. They were perfectly familiar with all its
+diverse and peculiar windings, and, when they once dashed in among the
+rocks, they felt safe against any and all pursuers.
+
+Making their way through this pass, Captain Quinn and his scouts reached
+Wet Mountain Valley, where he had promised to meet and report to his
+superior officer.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+
+ Discovery of the Trail--Prairie Detectives.
+
+Meanwhile, Kit Carson, who was with Major Carleton, had discovered a
+trail made by three of the enemy. Carefully following it up, it was
+found to join the principal path, a short distance away. When Quinn
+arrived he had also some discoveries to report, and the scouts held a
+consultation over the question. It was agreed by all that they were on
+the track of the enemy they were seeking.
+
+The general reader is not apt to appreciate the skill, patience and
+intelligence shown by the scouts and hunters in tracing the flight of
+an enemy through a wild and desolate country. As an evidence of the
+wonderful attainments of border men in woodcraft, the following letter
+may be given, written by the surgeon at Fort Randall in Dacotah in 1869:
+
+"The most extraordinary skill that is exhibited in this part of the
+country, either by the white man, or red native, is in the practice of
+trailing. Here it may be accounted an art as much as music, painting
+or sculpture is in the East. The Indian or trapper that is a shrewd
+trailer, is a man of close observation, quick perception, and prompt
+action. As he goes along, nothing escapes his observation, and what he
+sees and hears he accounts for immediately. Often not another step is
+taken until a mystery that may present itself in this line is fairly
+solved. The Indian trailer will stand still for hours in succession, to
+account for certain traces or effects in tracks, and sometimes gives to
+the matter unremitting attention for days and weeks.
+
+"The trailer is not a graceful man. He carries his head much inclined,
+his eye is quick and restless, always on the watch, and he is practising
+his art unconsciously, hardly ever crossing the track of man or animal
+without seeing it. When he enters a house, he brings the habits he
+contracted in the practice of his art with him. I know a trailer as soon
+he enters my room. He comes in through the door softly, and with an air
+of exceeding caution. Before he is fairly in, or at least has sat down,
+he has taken note of every article and person. Though there may be a
+dozen vacant chairs in the room, he is not used to chairs, and, like
+the Indian, prefers a more humble seat. When I was employed by General
+Harney last summer to take charge temporarily of the Indians that were
+gathered here to form a new reservation, one day a guide and trailer
+came into the General's headquarters. I told him to be seated. He sat
+down on the floor, bracing his back against the wall. The General saw
+this, and in vexation cried out, 'My God, why don't you take a chair
+when there are plenty here not occupied?' The man arose and seated
+himself in a chair, but in so awkward and uncomfortable a manner that he
+looked as if he might slip from it at any moment. But when this uncouth
+person came to transact his business with the General, he turned out to
+be a man of no ordinary abilities. His description of a route he took as
+guide and trailer for the Ogallalas in bringing them from the Platte
+to this place was minute, and to me exceedingly interesting. Every
+war party that for the season had crossed his trail, he described with
+minuteness as to their number, the kinds of arms they had, and stated
+the tribes they belonged to. In these strange revelations that he made
+there was neither imposition nor supposition, for he gave satisfactory
+reasons for every assertion he made.
+
+"I have rode several hundred miles with an experienced guide and
+trailer, Hack, whom I interrogated upon many points in the practice of
+this art. Nearly all tracks I saw, either old or new, as a novice in the
+art, I questioned him about. In going to the Niobrara River crossed the
+track of an Indian pony. My guide followed the track a few miles and
+then said, 'It is a stray, black horse, with a long, bushy tail, nearly
+starved to death, has a split hoof of the left fore foot, and goes
+very lame, and he passed here early this morning.' Astonished and
+incredulous, I asked him the reasons for knowing these particulars by
+the tracks of the animal, when he replied:
+
+"'It was a stray horse, because it did not go in a direct line; his tail
+was long, for he dragged it over the snow; in brushing against a bush he
+left some of his hair which shows its color. He was very hungry, for, in
+going along, he has nipped at those high, dry weeds, which horses seldom
+eat. The fissure of the left fore foot left also its track, and the
+depth of the indentation shows the degree of his lameness; and his
+tracks show he was here this morning, when the snow was hard with
+frost.'
+
+"At another place we came across an Indian track, and he said, 'It is
+an old Yankton who came across the Missouri last evening to look at his
+traps. In coming over he carried in his right hand a trap, and in his
+left a lasso to catch a pony which he had lost. He returned without
+finding the horse, but had caught in the trap he had out a prairie wolf,
+which he carried home on his back and a bundle of kinikinic wood in
+his right hand.' Then, he gave his reasons: 'I know he is old, by the
+impression his gait has made and a Yankton by that of his moccasin. He
+is from the other side of the river, as there are no Yanktons on this
+side. The trap he carried struck the snow now and then, and in same
+manner as when he came, shows that he did not find his pony. A drop of
+blood in the centre of his tracks shows that he carried the wolf on his
+back, and the bundle of kinikinic wood he used for a staff for support,
+and catching a wolf, shows that he had traps out.' But I asked, 'how do
+you know it is wolf; why not a fox, or a coyote, or even a deer?' Said
+he: 'If it had been a fox, or coyote or any other small game he would
+have slipped the head of the animal in his waist belt, and so carried it
+by his side, and not on his shoulders. Deer are not caught by traps but
+if it had been a deer, he would not have crossed this high hill, but
+would have gone back by way of the ravine, and the load would have made
+his steps still more tottering.'
+
+"Another Indian track which we saw twenty miles west of this he put
+this serious construction upon: 'He is an upper Indian--a prowling horse
+thief--carried a double shot gun, and is a rascal that killed some white
+man lately, and passed here one week ago; for,' said he, 'a lone Indian
+in these parts is on mischief, and generally on the lookout for horses.
+He had on the shoes of a white man whom he had in all probability
+killed, but his steps are those of an Indian. Going through the ravine,
+the end of his gun hit into the deep snow. A week ago we had a very warm
+day, and the snow being soft, he made these deep tracks; ever since it
+has been intensely cold weather, which makes very shallow tracks.' I
+suggested that perhaps he bought those shoes. 'Indians don't buy shoes,
+and if they did they would not buy them as large as these were, for
+Indians have very small feet.'
+
+"The most noted trailer of this country was Paul Daloria, a half breed,
+who died under my hands of Indian consumption last summer. I have spoken
+of him in a former letter. At one time I rode with him, and trailing was
+naturally the subject of our conversation. I begged to trail with him an
+old track over the prairie, in order to learn its history. I had hardly
+made the proposition, when he drew up his horse, which was at a ravine,
+and said, 'Well, here is an old elk track. Let us get off our horses and
+follow it.' We followed it but a few rods, when he said, it was exactly
+a month old, and made at 2 o'clock in the afternoon. This he knew, as
+then we had our last rain, and at the hour named the ground was softer
+than at any other time. The track before us was then made. He broke up
+here and there clusters of grass that lay in the path of the track, and
+showed me the dry ends of some, the stumps of others, and by numerous
+other similar items accounted for many circumstances that astonished me.
+We followed the trail over a mile. Now and then we saw that a wolf, a
+fox, and other animals had practised their trailing instincts on the
+elk's tracks. Here and there, he would show me where a snake, a rat, and
+a prairie dog had crossed the track. Nothing had followed or crossed the
+track that the quick eye of Daloria did not detect. He gave an account
+of the habits of all the animals that had left their footprints on the
+track, also of the state of the weather since the elk passed, and the
+effect of sunshine, winds, aridity, sand storms, and other influences
+that had a bearing on these tracks."
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+
+ The Pursuit and Attack--Two O'clock.
+
+When Kit Carson and the other scouts found the main trail, they eagerly
+took up the pursuit. They had not gone far when all doubt was removed:
+they were upon the track of a large hostile body of warriors and were
+gaining steadily; but so rapid was the flight of the marauders that it
+was not until the sixth day that the first glimpse of the Indians was
+obtained. They were encamped on a mountain peak, devoid of trees, and
+seemingly beyond the reach of danger; but such was the energy of the
+attack that they reached camp before the Indians could collect their
+animals and make off. The fight was a hot one for a few minutes during
+which quite a number of warriors were killed and wounded.
+
+When night came a squad of men hid themselves near the camp, from which
+the Indians had fled, in the expectation that some of them would steal
+back during the darkness to learn what had been done. The dismal hours
+passed until near midnight, when one of the soldiers made the call which
+the Apaches use to hail each other. The sound had hardly died out, when
+two squaws and two warriors appeared and began groping silently around
+in the gloom. The soldiers were cruel enough to fire upon the party, but
+in the darkness only one was killed.
+
+Dr. Peters states that on the morning of the day when the Apache
+encampment was discovered Kit Carson, after diligently studying the
+trail, rode up to Major Carleton and told him that if no accident
+intervened, the Indians would be overtaken at two o'clock in the
+afternoon. The officer smiled and said if the Agent proved a genuine
+prophet, he would present him with the finest hat that could be bought
+in the United States.
+
+The pursuit continued for hours, and, when the watches in the company
+showed that it was two o'clock, Carson triumphantly pointed to the
+mountain peak, far in advance where the Indian encampment was in plain
+sight. He had hit the truth with mathematical exactness.
+
+Major Carleton kept his promise. To procure such a hat as he felt he had
+earned, required several months; but one day the Indian Agent at Taos
+received a superb piece of head gear within which was the following
+inscription:
+
+AT 2 O'CLOCK.
+
+KIT CARSON, FROM
+
+MAJOR CARLETON.
+
+Dr. Peters adds that a gentleman who was a member of the expedition
+subjected Carson some years later to a similar test, and he came within
+five minutes of naming the precise time when a band of fugitives was
+overtaken.
+
+Having done all that was possible, Major Carleton returned with his
+command to Taos and Carson resumed his duties as Indian Agent. Some
+months later, another expedition was organized against the Apaches but
+it accomplished nothing. In the latter part of the summer Carson started
+on a visit to the Utahs. They were under his especial charge and he held
+interviews with them several times a year, they generally visiting him
+at his ranche, which they were glad to do, as they were sure of being
+very hospitably treated.
+
+This journey required a horseback ride of two or three hundred miles,
+a great portion of which was through the Apache country. These Indians
+were in such a resentful mood towards the whites that they would have
+been only too glad to wrench the scalp of Father Kit from his crown; but
+he knew better than to run into any of their traps. He was continually
+on the lookout, and more than once detected their wandering bands in
+time to give them the slip. He was equally vigilant and consequently
+equally fortunate on his return.
+
+Carson found when he met the Indians in council that they had good
+cause for discontent. One of their leading warriors had been waylaid
+and murdered by a small party of Mexicans. The officials who were
+with Carson promised that the murderers should be given up. It was the
+intention of all that justice should be done, but, as was too often the
+case, it miscarried altogether. Only one of the murderers was caught and
+he managed to escape and was never apprehended again.
+
+To make matters worse, some of the blankets which the Superintendent had
+presented the Indians a short while before, proved to be infected with
+small pox and the dreadful disease carried off many of the leading
+warriors of the tribe. More than one Apache was resolute in declaring
+the proceeding premeditated on the part of the whites. The result was
+the breaking out of a most formidable Indian war. The Muache band of
+Utahs, under their most distinguished chieftain, joined the Apaches in
+waylaying and murdering travellers, attacking settlements and making off
+with the prisoners, besides capturing hundreds and thousands of cattle,
+sheep, mules and horses. For a time they overran a large portion of
+the territory of New Mexico. Matters at last reached such a pass, that
+unless the savages were checked, they would annihilate all the whites.
+
+The Governor issued a call for volunteers. The response was prompt, and
+five hundred men were speedily equipped and put into the field. They
+were placed under charge of Colonel T. T. Fauntleroy, of the First
+Regiment of United States Dragoons. He engaged Kit Carson as his chief
+guide.
+
+The campaign was pushed with all possible vigor, but for a time nothing
+important was done. The weather became intensely cold. On the second
+campaign, Colonel Fauntleroy surprised the main camp of the enemy and
+inflicted great slaughter. A severe blow was administered, but the
+reader knows that the peace which followed proved only temporary. The
+Apaches have been a thorn in our side for many years. General Crook has
+shown great tact, bravery and rare skill in his dealings with them and
+probably has brought about the most genuine peace that has been known
+for a generation.
+
+It would not be worth while to follow Kit Carson on his round of duties
+as Indian Agent. He had to deal with the most turbulent tribes on the
+continent, and enough has been told to prove his peerless sagacity
+in solving the most difficult questions brought before him. He rode
+thousands of miles, visiting remote points, conferred with the leading
+hostiles, risked his life times without number, and was often absent
+from home for weeks and months. While it was beyond the attainment of
+human endeavor for him to make an end of wars on the frontiers, yet he
+averted many and did a degree of good which is beyond all calculation.
+
+"I was in the insignificant settlement of Denver, in the autumn of
+1860," said A. L. Worthington, "when a party of Arapahoes, Cheyennes
+and Comanches returned from an expedition against the tribe of mountain
+Indians know as the Utes. The allied forces were most beautifully
+whipped and were compelled to leave the mountains in the greatest hurry
+for their lives. They brought into Denver one squaw and her half dozen
+children as prisoners. The little barbarians, when the other youngsters
+came too near or molested them, would fight like young wild cats. The
+intention of the captors, as I learned, was to torture the squaw and her
+children to death. Before the arrangements were completed, Kit Carson
+rode to the spot and dismounted. He had a brief, earnest talk with
+the warriors. He did not mean to permit the cruel death that was
+contemplated, but instead of demanding the surrender of the captives, he
+ransomed them all, paying ten dollars a piece. After they were given up,
+he made sure that they were returned to their tribe in the mountains."
+
+This anecdote may serve as an illustration of scores of similar duties
+in which the agent was engaged. It was during the same year that Carson
+received an injury which was the cause of his death. He was descending a
+mountain, so steep that he led his horse by a lariat, intending, if the
+animal fell, to let go of it in time to prevent being injured. The steed
+did fall and though Carson threw the lariat from him, he was caught by
+it, dragged some distance and severely injured.
+
+When the late Civil War broke out and most of our troops were withdrawn
+from the mountains and plains, Carson applied to President Lincoln for
+permission to raise a regiment of volunteers in New Mexico, for the
+purpose of protecting our settlements there. Permission was given, the
+regiment raised and the famous mountaineer did good service with his
+soldiers. On one occasion he took 9,000 Navajo prisoners with less than
+600 men.
+
+At the close of the war, he was ordered to Fort Garland, where he
+assumed command of a large region. He was Brevet Brigadier General and
+retained command of a battalion of New Mexico volunteers.
+
+Carson did not suffer immediately from his injury, but he found in time
+that a grave internal disturbance had been caused by his fall. In the
+spring of 1868, he accompanied a party of Ute Indians to Washington. He
+was then failing fast and consulted a number of leading physicians and
+surgeons. His disease was aneurism of the aorta which progressed fast.
+When his end was nigh, his wife suddenly died, leaving seven children,
+the youngest only a few weeks old. His affliction had a very depressing
+effect on Carson, who expired May 23, 1868.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+
+ Letter from General W. T. Sherman, and from General J. F. Rusling.
+
+In closing the life of Kit Carson, it will be appropriate to add two
+letters, which were furnished at our request:
+
+912 GARRISON AVENUE, ST. LOUIS, MO., JUNE 25, 1884.
+
+
+"Kit Carson first came into public notice by Fremont's Reports of the
+Exploration of the Great West about 1842-3. You will find mention of
+Kit Carson in my memoirs, vol. I, p. 46, 47, as bringing to us the first
+overland mail to California in his saddle bags. I saw but little of him
+afterwards till after the Civil War, when, in 1866, I was the Lieutenant
+General commanding the Military Division of the Missouri, with
+headquarters in St. Louis, and made a tour of my command, including what
+are now Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico. Reaching Fort Garland, New
+Mexico, in September of October, 1866, I found it garrisoned by some
+companies of New Mexico Volunteers, of which Carson was Colonel or
+commanding officer. I stayed with him some days, during which we had a
+sort of council with the Ute Indians, of which the chief Ouray was the
+principal feature, and over whom Carson exercised a powerful influence.
+
+"Carson then had his family with him--wife and half a dozen children,
+boys and girls as wild and untrained as a brood of Mexican mustangs. One
+day these children ran through the room in which we were seated, half
+clad and boisterous, and I inquired, 'Kit, what are you doing about your
+children?'
+
+"He replied: 'That is a source of great anxiety; I myself had no
+education,' (he could not even write, his wife always signing his name
+to his official reports). 'I value education as much as any man, but I
+have never had the advantage of schools, and now that I am getting old
+and infirm, I fear I have not done right by my children.'
+
+"I explained to him that the Catholic College, at South Bend, Indiana,
+had, for some reason, given me a scholarship for twenty years, and that
+I would divide with him--that is let him send two of his boys for five
+years each. He seemed very grateful and said he would think of it.
+
+"My recollection is that his regiment was mustered out of service that
+winter, 1866-7, and that the following summer, 1867, he (Carson) went to
+Washington on some business for the Utes, and on his return toward New
+Mexico, he stopped at Fort Lyon, on the upper Arkansas, where he died.
+His wife died soon after at Taos, New Mexico, and the children fell to
+the care of a brother in law, Mr. Boggs, who had a large ranche on the
+Purgation near Fort Lyon. It was reported of Carson, when notified that
+death was impending, that he said, 'Send William, (his eldest son) to
+General Sherman who has promised to educate him.' Accordingly, some time
+about the spring of 1868, there came to my house, in St. Louis, a stout
+boy with a revolver, Life of Kit Carson by Dr. Peters, United States
+Army, about $40 in money, and a letter from Boggs, saying that in
+compliance with the request of Kit Carson, on his death bed, he had sent
+William Carson to me. Allowing him a few days of vacation with my own
+children, I sent him to the college at South Bend, Ind., with a letter
+of explanation, and making myself responsible for his expenses. He was
+regularly entered in one of the classes, and reported to me regularly. I
+found the 'Scholarship' amounted to what is known as 'tuition,' but
+for three years I paid all his expenses of board, clothing, books, &c.,
+amounting to about $300 a year. At the end of that time, the Priest
+reported to me that Carson was a good natured boy, willing enough,
+but that he had no taste or appetite for learning. His letters to
+me confirmed this conclusion, as he could not possibly spell. After
+reflection, I concluded to send him to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, to the
+care of General Langdon C. Easton, United States Quartermaster, with
+instructions to employ him in some capacity in which he could earn his
+board and clothing, and to get some officer of the garrison to teach him
+just what was necessary for a Lieutenant of Cavalry. Lieutenant Beard,
+adjutant of the Fifth Infantry did this. He (William Carson) was
+employed, as a 'Messenger,' and, as he approached his twenty-first year,
+under the tuition of Lieutenant Beard, he made good progress. Meantime
+I was promoted to General in Chief at Washington, and about 1870, when
+Carson had become twenty-one years of age, I applied in person to the
+President, General Grant, to give the son of Kit Carson, the appointment
+of Second Lieutenant Ninth United States Cavalry, telling him somewhat
+of the foregoing details. General Grant promptly ordered the appointment
+to issue, subject to the examination as to educational qualifications,
+required by the law. The usual board of officers was appointed at Fort
+Leavenworth and Carson was ordered before it. After careful examination,
+the board found him deficient in reading, writing and arithmetic. Of
+course he could not be commissioned. I had given him four years of
+my guardianship, about $1,000 of my own money, and the benefit of my
+influence, all in vain. By nature, he was not adapted to 'modern uses.'
+I accordingly wrote him that I had exhausted my ability to provide for
+him, and advised him to return to his uncle Boggs on the Purgation to
+assist him in his cattle and sheep ranche.
+
+"I heard from him by letter once or twice afterward, in one of which he
+asked me to procure for him the agency for the Utes. On inquiry at the
+proper office in Washington, I found that another person had secured
+the place of which I notified him, and though of late years I have often
+been on the Purgation, and in the Ute country, I could learn nothing of
+the other children of Kit Carson, or of William, who for four years was
+a sort of ward to me.
+
+"Since the building of railroads in that region, the whole character of
+its population is changed, and were Kit Carson to arise from his grave,
+he could not find a buffalo, elk or deer, where he used to see millions.
+He could not even recognize the country with which he used to be so
+familiar, or find his own children, whom he loved, and for whose welfare
+he felt so solicitous in his later days.
+
+"Kit Carson was a good type of a class of men most useful in their day,
+but now as antiquated as Jason of the Golden Fleece, Ulysses of Troy,
+the Chevalier La Salle of the Lakes, Daniel Boone of Kentucky, Irvin
+Bridger and Jim Beckwith of the Rockies, all belonging to the dead past.
+
+"Yours Truly,
+
+"W. T. SHERMAN."
+
+"TRENTON, N. J., June 23, 1884.
+
+"In accordance with your request to give my recollections of Kit Carson,
+I would say that I met and spent several days with him in September,
+1866, at and near Fort Garland, Colorado, on the headwaters of the Rio
+Grande. I was then Brevet Brigadier General and Inspector United States
+Volunteers, on a tour of inspection of the military depots and posts in
+that region and across to the Pacific. General Sherman happened there at
+the same time, on like duty as to his Military Division, and our joint
+talks, as a rule, extended far into the night and over many subjects.
+'Kit' was then Brevet Brigadier General United States Volunteers, and
+in command of Fort Garland, and a wide region thereabouts--mostly
+Indian--which he knew thoroughly. Fort Garland was a typical frontier
+post, composed of log huts chinked with mud, rough but comfortable, and
+in one of these Kit then lived with his Mexican wife and several half
+breed children.
+
+"He was then a man apparently about fifty years of age. From what I had
+read about him, I had expected to see a small, wiry man, weather-beaten
+and reticent; but found him to be a medium sized, rather stoutish, and
+quite talkative person instead. His hair was already well-silvered, but
+his face full and florid. You would scarcely regard him, at first sight,
+as a very noticeable man, except as having a well knit frame and full,
+deep chest. But on observing him more closely, you were struck with
+the breadth and openness of his brow, bespeaking more than ordinary
+intelligence and courage; with his quick, blue eye, that caught
+everything at a glance apparently--an eye beaming with kindliness and
+benevolence, but that could blaze with anger when aroused; and with
+his full, square jaw and chin, that evidently could shut as tight as
+Sherman's or Grant's when necessary. With nothing of the swashbuckler
+or Buffalo Bill--of the border ruffian or the cowboy--about him, his
+manners were as gentle, and his voice as soft and sympathetic, as a
+woman's. What impressed one most about his face was its rare kindliness
+and charity--that here, at last, was a natural gentleman, simple as a
+child but brave as a lion. He soon took our hearts by storm, and the
+more we saw of him the more we became impressed with his true manliness
+and worth. Like everybody else on the border, he smoked freely, and at
+one time drank considerably; but he had quit drinking years before, and
+said he owed his excellent health and preeminence, if he had any, to
+his habits of almost total abstinence. In conversation he was slow and
+hesitating at first, approaching almost to bashfulness, often seemingly
+at a loss for words; but, as he warmed up, this disappeared, and
+you soon found him talking glibly, and with his hands and fingers as
+well--rapidly gesticulating--Indian fashion. He was very conscientious,
+and in all our talks would frequently say: 'Now, stop gentlemen! Is this
+right?' 'Ought we to do this?' 'Can we do that?' 'Is this like human
+nature?' or words to this effect, as if it was the habit of his mind
+to test everything by the moral law. I think that was the predominating
+feature of his character--his perfect honesty and truthfulness--quite as
+much as his matchless coolness and courage. Said Sherman to me one day
+while there: 'His integrity is simply perfect. The red skins know it,
+and would trust Kit any day before they would us, or the President,
+either!' And Kit well returned their confidence, by being their
+steadfast, unswerving friend and ready champion.
+
+"He talked freely of his past life, unconscious of its extraordinary
+character. Born in Kentucky, he said, he early took to the plains and
+mountains, and joined the hunters and trappers, when he was so young he
+could not set a trap. When he became older, he turned trapper himself,
+and trapped all over our territories for beaver, otter, etc., from the
+Missouri to the Pacific, and from British America to Mexico. Next he
+passed into Government employ, as an Indian scout and guide, and as such
+piloted Fremont and others all over the Plains and through the Rocky and
+Sierra Nevada Mountains. Fremont, in his reports, surrounded Kit's name
+with a romantic valor, but he seems to have deserved it all, and more.
+His good sense, his large experience, and unfaltering courage, were
+invaluable to Fremont, and it is said about the only time the Pathfinder
+went seriously astray among the Mountains was when he disregarded his
+(Kit's) advice, and endeavored to force a passage through the Rockies
+northwest of Fort Garland. Kit told him the mountains could not be
+crossed at that time of the year; and, when Fremont nevertheless
+insisted on proceeding, he resigned as guide. The Pathfinder, however,
+went stubbornly forward, but got caught in terrible snowstorms, and
+presently returned--half of his men and animals having perished outright
+from cold and hunger. Next Kit became United States Indian Agent, and
+made one of the best we ever had. Familiar with the language and customs
+of the Indians, he frequently spent months together among them without
+seeing a white man, and indeed became a sort of half Indian himself. In
+talking with us, I noticed he frequently hesitated for the right English
+word; but when speaking bastard Spanish (Mexican) or Indian, with
+the Ute Indians there, he was as fluent as a native. Both Mexican and
+Indian, however, are largely pantomime, abounding in perpetual grimace
+and gesture, which may have helped him along somewhat. Next, when the
+rebellion broke out, he became a Union soldier, though the border was
+largely Confederate. He tendered his services to Mr. Lincoln, who
+at once commissioned him Colonel, and told him to take care of the
+frontier, as the regulars there had to come East to fight Jeff Davis.
+Kit straightway proceeded to raise the First Regiment of New Mexico
+Volunteers, in which he had little difficulty, as the New Mexicans knew
+him well, and had the utmost confidence in him. With these, during the
+war, he was busy fighting hostile Indians, and keeping others friendly,
+and in his famous campaign against the Navajos, in New Mexico, with only
+six hundred frontier volunteers captured some nine thousand prisoners.
+The Indians withdrew into a wild canyon, where no white man, it was
+said, had ever penetrated, and believed to be impregnable. But Kit
+pursued them from either end, and attacked them with pure Indian
+strategy and tactics; and the Navajos finding themselves thus
+surrounded, and their supplies cut off, outwitted by a keener fighter
+than themselves, surrendered at discretion. Then he did not slaughter
+them, but marched them to a goodly reservation, and put them to work
+herding and planting, and they had continued peaceable ever since.
+
+"Kit seemed thoroughly familiar with Indian life and character, and
+it must be conceded, that no American of his time knew our aborigines
+better--if any so well. It must be set down to their credit, that he
+was their stout friend--no Boston philanthropist more so. He did not
+hesitate to say, that all our Indian troubles were caused originally by
+bad white men, if the truth were known, and was terribly severe on the
+brutalities and barbarities of the border. He said the Indians were very
+different from what they used to be, and were yearly becoming more so
+from contact with border ruffians and cowboys. He said he had lived for
+years among them with only occasional visits to the settlements, and
+he had never known an Indian to injure a Pale Face, where he did not
+deserve it; on the other hand, he had seen an Indian kill his brother
+even for insulting a white man in the old times. He insisted that
+Indians never commit outrages unless they are first provoked to them by
+the borderers, and that many of the peculiar and special atrocities
+with which they are charged are only their imitation of the bad acts
+of wicked white men. He pleaded for the Indians, as 'pore ignorant
+critters, who had no learnin', and didn't know no better,' whom we were
+daily robbing of their hunting grounds and homes, and solemnly asked:
+'What der yer 'spose our Heavenly Father, who made both them and us,
+thinks of these things?' He was particularly severe upon Col. Chivington
+and the Sand Creek massacre of 1864, which was still fresh in the public
+mind, said he; 'jist to think of that dog Chivington, and his dirty
+hounds, up thar at Sand Creek! Whoever heerd of sich doings 'mong
+Christians!'
+
+"'The pore Indians had the Stars and Stripes flying over them, our old
+flag thar, and they'd bin told down to Denver, that so long as they kept
+that flying they'd be safe enough. Well, then, one day along comes that
+durned Chivington and his cusses. They'd bin out several day's huntin'
+Hostiles, and couldn't find none nowhar, and if they had, they'd have
+skedaddled from 'em, you bet! So they jist lit upon these Friendlies,
+and massacreed 'em--yes, sir, literally massacreed 'em--in cold blood,
+in spite of our flag thar--yes, women and little children, even! Why,
+Senator Foster told me with his own lips (and him and his Committee come
+out yer from Washington, you know, and investigated this muss), that
+that thar durned miscreant and his men shot down squaws, and blew the
+brains out of little innocent children--pistoled little papooses in
+the arms of their dead mothers, and even worse than this!--them durned
+devils! and you call sich soldiers Christians, do ye? and pore Indians
+savages!'
+
+"'I tell you what, friends; I don't like a hostile Red Skin any more
+than you do. And when they are hostile, I've fit 'em--fout 'em--and
+expect to fight 'em--hard as any man. That's my business. But I never
+yit drew a bead on a squaw or papoose, and I despise the man who would.
+'Taint nateral for men to kill women and pore little children, and none
+but a coward or a dog would do it. Of course when we white men do sich
+awful things, why these pore ignorant critters don't know no better than
+to foller suit. Pore things! Pore things! I've seen as much of 'em as
+any man livin', and I can't help but pity 'em, right or wrong! They
+once owned all this country, yes, Plains and Mountains, buffalo and
+everything, but now they own next door to nuthin, and will soon be
+gone.'
+
+"Alas, poor Kit! He has already 'gone to the Happy Hunting Grounds.' But
+the Indians had no truer friend, and Kit Carson would wish no prouder
+epitaph than this. In talking thus he would frequently get his grammar
+wrong, and his language was only the patois of the Border; but there
+was an eloquence in his eye, and a pathos in his voice, that would
+have touched a heart of stone, and a genuine manliness about him at all
+times, that would have won him hosts of friends anywhere. And so, Kit
+Carson, good friend, brave heart, generous soul, hail and farewell!
+
+"Hoping these rough recollections may serve your purpose, I remain
+
+"Very respectfully,
+
+"Your obedient servant,
+
+"JAMES F. RUSLING."
+
+The following tribute to the matchless scout, hunter and guide is from
+the Salt Lake Tribune:
+
+He wrote his own biography and left it where the edition will never
+grow dim. The alphabet he used was made of the rivers, the plains, the
+forests, and the eternal heights. He started in his youth with his face
+to the West; started toward where no trails had been blazed, where there
+was naught to meet him but the wilderness, the wild beast, and the still
+more savage man. He made his lonely camps by the rivers, and now it is
+a fiction with those who sleep on the same grounds that the waters in
+their flow murmur the great pathfinder's name. He followed the water
+courses to their sources, and guided by them, learned where the
+mountains bent their crests to make possible highways for the feet
+of men. He climbed the mountains and "disputed with the eagles of the
+crags" for points of observation; he met the wild beast and subdued
+him; he met the savage of the plains and of the hills, and, in his own
+person, gave him notice of his sovereignty in skill, in cunning and
+in courage. To the red man he was the voice of fate. In him they saw a
+materialized foreboding of their destiny. To them he was a voice crying
+the coming of a race against which they could not prevail; before which
+they were to be swept away.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Life of Kit Carson, by Edward S. Ellis
+
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