“Complete, Published Monthly. - BEA Dine s Dingra cal Library Number Three. KIT CARSON: } |) ROCKY MOUNTAIN SCOUT AND GUIDE, | Hew-York vand London: if _ BEADLE AND COMPANY, 141 WILLIAM ST,, N. Y, General Dime Book Publishers. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the Year 1861, _ ¥ | by Beapir anp ComPANy, in the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the United States { for the Southern Districtof New-York, wp any lb /, / Cut _ The Immortal Crockett. DIME BIOGRAPHICAL LIBRARY NO. 5, Will Issue Monday, April 22d, THE LIFE OF COL. DAVID GROCKETT, COMPRISING HIS. Memorable Adventures, His Congressional Career, His Odd Sayings, His Northern Tour, His Frightful Bear Hunts, His Texan Life, and Glorious Death at the Battle of the Almoy Forming altogether one of the most intensely interesting and peculiar biographies ever presented to the American public. Col. Crockett was one of the most remarkable men who eyer lived— his life was one constant succession of novel phases—his wit, his courage, his love of danger and excitement, his chivalrous devotion to the cause of Texan Independence—all conspire to claim for him a place in the annals of our history at once striking and of deepest interest. There is no life of Crocknrr now before the public, prop- erly adapted for popular circulation, and the work here presented is designed especially to supply the existing want, It will: be found, in all respects, satisfactory, and is confidently commended to all loyers of the marvelous and novel in human nature. (a¥” For Sale by all News Dealers, BEADLE AND COMPANY, Publishers, ~ 44 William St, New York. WNBA. THE LIFE AND TIMES or CHRISTOPHER CARSON, THE . ROCKY MOUNTAIN SCOUT AND GUIDE. WITH REMINISCENCES OF FREMONT’S EXPLORING EXPEDI- . TIONS, AND NOTES OF LIFE IN NEW MEXICO. NEW YORK AND LONDON: BEADLE AND COMPANY, PUBLISHERS, 141 Witirax Sr., Corner or Fortoy, N.Y. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the Year 1861, by BEADLE AND COMPANY, in the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the United States for the ‘ Southern District of New York. IN THOS CLIOR: Tue life of no living person will be read by the masses of the American people with greater interest than that of Christopher Carson. There certainly is no man living who has been the subject of more adyentures, or who has come out of them with a purer and more spotless reputation. In the character cither of hunter, trapper or guide, he is the same chivalric, honest- heartedman. He is not the one who engages in an Indian fight out of pure love for it, as do many of our border charac- ters. He is ever just toward all, prompt to recognize a good deed in any one, and equally prompt to punish an evil one. In the character of Indian agent in New Mexico, no one has done more toward ameliorating the condition of the tribes around him; and no man at this day, is regarded with more affection and reverence by the savages. The appearance of Carson is very different from what one would very naturally suppose. He is helow the medium height, of a light complexion, with a clearly defined physiognomy. The expression of his countenance is pleasing, with a clear, restless gray eye, and a nervous, uneasy body, that shows his extraordi- nary strength and activity. To the stranger he would secm to be a timid, backward man—the last man who would be taken for the renowned mountaineer. In the preparation of the following pages, we have used as our authority Dr. Peters’ excellent Biography of Kit Carson. This gentleman, from long association with his hero, and from the fact that what he records in regard to him was dictated by Carson himself is entitled to the fullest credit. In the volume spoken of, he has performed his self-imposed duty with real ability and discrimination, INTRODUCTION. In addition to this, we have drawn upon the knowledge of men from the Far West, who have met our subject, and learned considerable of his history; upon the published accounts of Fremont’s several Explorations; and upon official documents and personal reports. Nothing to which we believe the least doubt can attach has been repeated; and, in our limited space, we have sought to give a thorough, compact and satisfactory record of this illustrious man and his times. CONTENTS. CHAPTERIT, Birth of Kit Carson—Removal to Missouri—Boyhood—Apprenticed to a Saddler—Accompanies a Party of Traders to Santa Fe—Spends the winter with Kin Cade at Fernandez de Taos—Starts for Missouri —Returns to Santa Fe—Goes as Teamster to El Paso—Engages him- self as Spanish Interpreter for Colonel Tramell—Goes to Chihuahua — THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. CHAPTER I. BIRTH OF KIT CARSON—REMOVAL TO MISSOURI-——-BOYHOOD—APPRENTICED TO A SADDLER—ACCOMPANIES A PARTY OF TRADERS TO SANTA FE—SPENDS THE WINTER WITH KIN CADE AT FERNANDEZ DE TAOS—STARTS FOR MIS- ~ SOURI—RETURNS TO SANTA FE—GOES AS TEAMSTER TO EL PASO—ENGAGES HIMSELF AS SPANISH INTERPRETER FOR COLONEL TRAMEBL—GOES TO CHIHUAHUA—ACTS AS TEAMSTER TO THE COPPER-MINES OF THE RIO GILA —RETURNS TO TAOS—JOINS A PARTY OF TRAPPERS. CrISTOPHER CARsoN, or, as he is more generally known, “Kit Carson,” was born in Madison county, Kentucky, toward the close of the year 1809.* While still an infant, his father removed to Missouri, then called Upper Louisiana. At this time, Missouri was literally a “a howling wilderness.” The woods abounded in all kinds of game, and sheltered bands of treacherous Indians, who, at times, gave the settlers much trouble. The residence of Mr. Carson was.a sort of advanced fort, protected by pickets, inside of which a sleepless watch was ever kept, and where, at night, he anda few neighbors carefully locked themselves and their families, prepared at any moment to receive the assault of their inveterate enemies, the savages. The boy Christopher inherited from his father a love of hunting and adventure, and, as may be supposed, the experiences of his boyhood tended only to increase this love, until it became his one controlling passion. He seemed to “take to the woods” as if by instinct. Shrewd old pioneers prophesied something uncommon from the boy’s courage, endurance, sagacity and integrity. * Colonel Fremont states that Carson was born in Missouri. This, how- ever, must be an error, as Dr. Peters, author of ‘‘Carson’s Life,” gives Kentucky as his birthplace. Dr. P. obtained his data from Carson himself, t 10 THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. In tracing the lives of Kit Carson and Daniel Boone, one can but notice the similarity between the two men. Both emigrated to a frontier settlement when very young, where, for years, they lived in constant peril; both manifested the same passion for the hunt and chase; both spent the prime of life in founding new settlements and in laying the foundations for a permanent and prosperous civilization; both were brave to a fault, earnest, kind and self-sacrificing to a remarkable degree; and both have won enduring fame from the same devotion and service to society. Very few advantages did our subject possess in the way of a school education. The stern realities of a settler’s life are not favorable to acquiring book-knowledge; the school-house is, generally, one of the last buildings erected by the hardy pioneer. But the lad’s quick intelligence saw si Tongues in trees, books in the running brooks, Sermons in stones, and good in everything.” He learned liberally of nature’s knowledge, and it may be truthfully said, it was a more practical and serviceable educa- tion than books could have imparted. At an early age he became noted as one of the finest shots and hunters in the country; and, although below the ordinary size, of slender frame, and slight limbs, he performed deeds of strength and quickness which did not fail to command the admiration of the hardy rangers and hunters of his neighbor- hood. He was very fleet of foot, of a nervous, restless tem- perament, and possessed physical and mental resources which prepared him for almost any possible emergency. He spent the time in hunting and working upon his father’s farm until he was fifteen years of age, when his parent con- cluded the boy ought to have a trade. Accordingly, he was apprenticed to a saddler by the name of Warkman, with whom Christopher remained until he was seventeen years of age, gaining the confidence of his employer and associates by his skill, honesty, and genial social qualities. But a captive never felt the gloominess of prison more than Carson felt the irksomeness of his calling, toward its close. While working with the awl, and strap and buckle, his mind Was away out on the glorious prairies, participating in the thrilling excitement of the chase, or the hunt among the fast- Aw LEARNS SPANISH. il nesses of the Rocky Mountains. Now and then he heard from some trapper an account of his hair-breadtlt escapes from the roving Indians; of his adventures by forest and flood; and listened with rapt attention to the glowing accounts.of that mighty country which stretched away beyond the Mississippi, where, for hundreds and hundreds of miles, the hunter might rove through a perfect paradise of prairie, plains, hills, streams and embowering forests. : His desire-to become the freedman of the wilderness held him captive—it was uncontrollable. In 1826, he therefore dropped his awl, deserted his “horse,” to join a party of traders, bound for Santa Fé, the capital of New Mexico. The route led across the Great American Desert, through that part of the Rocky-Mountain range’ which crosses New Mexico in a direc- tion parallel with the Rio Grande. One of the party having injured his arm by an accidental explosion of his rifle, amputa- tion was rendered necessary, at which young Carson assisted, exhibiting remarkable nerve and skill in the operation. This, and other commendable services, soon rendered him a great favorite. Santa Fé is finely situated upon a plateau, a mile above the level of the sea. It has a salubrious climate, and vast natural resources of soil around it; but its inhabitants are among the most depraved on the American continent, being a race of mixed blood, to a singular degree. The traders arrived at the settlement in November, without meeting with any unusual incident save the accident alluded to. Carson remained but a short time, before he departed for Fernandez de Taos, where he spent the winter in the hut of a retired mountaineer named Kin ,Cade. This mountaineer understood the Spanish language perfectly; and, before the winter was over, Carson had acquired a good knowledge of it—an attainment which proved of incalculable advantage to him in after life. Carson’s earnest hope was to visit the Far West, but he Was prevented by want of means. He was unable to find employment ; and, much as he disliked it, was compelled, in the Spring of 1827, to turn his footsteps once more toward Missouri. About half the distance was accomplished, When he encountered another band of Santa Fé traders, 12 THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. at the crossing of the Arkansas. These men offered him work, when he gladly joined them and returned to Santa Fé. Again he was deprived of employ for a long time, until he was offered the situation of teamster in a party starting for El Paso. This was accepted and the service performed, after which le again sought Santa Fé. After a brief stay, he left for Taos, where he engaged himself as cook, to Ewing Young, a trader and trapper, receiving, as a compensation for his services, his board, through the winter ! In the spring of 1828, Kit found himself seemingly no nearer the crowning of his hopes than when he left Missouri. Deprived of means, no way seemed opened for employment ; and, much disappointed, he once more turned his face toward the States. As before, he encountered a band of traders, with whom he retraced his steps to Santa Fé. Here he met with Colonel Tramell, who was in search of a Spanish interpreter to accompany his trading party to Chihuahua. Carson spoke this language fluently, and was immediately engaged by the , Colonel: He accordingly accompanied the expedition to Chi- huahua. This latter city is one of the most important in Northern Mexico. It was founded over a century and a half ago, and, at one time, numbered nearly a hundred thousand inhabitants.” Its celebrated cathedral of hewn stone was erected at a cost of $300,000. Its still well-preserved propor- tions and magnificence attest its early glory. The city has, however, declined greatly during the last century, and at this day does not number One-fifth of its former population. Car- son viewed its greatness with the greatest interest, and soon became familiar with its romantic history. The monotony of an interpreter’s life soon became unbear- able to the restless spirit of the adventurer. He therefore threw up his engagement with the Colonel, and became team- ster to Robert McKnight. As such he accompanied an expe- dition tothe copper mines on the Rio Gila, These various pursuits of the great mountaineer were compelled by circum- stances. He had never forsaken, for aninstant, his firm inten- tion of becoming a hunter and trapper when the opportunity afforded; and these different ayocations in whiclr we find him engaged, were looked upon by him as only the means to the desired end. 6 JOINS A PARTY OF TRAPPERS. 18 Making his way back to Taos, Carson was rendered happy by having the hopes which he had so long and ardently entertained crowned with success, and he entered upon that career which has made his fame world-wide. He found in Taos a party of trappers in the employ of his old acquaint- ance, Mr. Ewing Young. They had just returned from a, trapping expedition, having had a most desperate fight with the Indians near the Colorado, who finally routed them and compelled a hasty retreat from the trapping-grounds. Young determined to punish the Indians and regain possession of the territory from which his men had been driven. To accom- plish this, he organized a party numbering about forty. Among these was Carson, panting and eager for the fray. This party numbered the most skillful hunters and marks- men that could be obtained. The selection of Carson was a high compliment to his skill and sagacity. It was not long before he proved himself one of the most valuable men of the expedition. THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. CHAPTER II. DEPARTURE OF THE TRAPPERS—ENGAGEMENT WITH THEIR OLD ENEMIES —SEPARATION OF THE PARTY—-MKEET A COMPANY OF HUDSON BAY TRAP- PERS ON THE SAN JOAQUIN—NARROW ESCAPE FROM THE AUTHORITIES AT LOS ANGELOS—CARSON SAVES THE PARTY FROM MASSACRE — CAP- TURE OF A LARGE HERD OF CATTLE ON THE SAN PEDRO—PARTY DIS- BANDED AT SANTA FE—JOINS ANOTHER PARTY TO THE ROCKY MOUN- TAINS—THEIR ADVENTURES—ORGANIZES A TRAPPING PARTY OF HIS OWN. : As the authorities had forbidden American citizens to trap within Mexican territory, the party-were compelled to use some deception in regard to its destination and intentions. The men gave out that they were going into United States territory. Proceeding toward the east far enough to deceive the Mexicans, their course was changed to the south-west, so as to pass through the country of the Navahoe Indians, a tribe that, to this day, is very dangerous to travelers. Passing through Pueblo Zuni, they made their way to the head- waters of the Salt River, where they came upon the identical band that had routed the former party. As soon as the Indians discovered the trappers, they mani- fested a great desire to engage them in conflict, and prepara- tions were at once made by both parties. A large portion of the whites concealed themselves in ambush. The Indians made a bold charge, determined to annihilate every man. The trappers reserved fire until the Indians were in close range, when they poured a murderous volley in upon them, emptying saddles with frightful rapidity, and creating the wildest panic. Before the savages could recover, the men rallied from covert and made short work of the “brayes” who stood their ground. Over a dozen were killed, and a large number were wounded. Young and his party were left masters of the field, without the loss of a single man. TRAPPING ON THE SAN JOAQUIN. 15 Young now started down Salt River, trapping along the way, until he reached the San Francisco, which he followed to its source. Here he divided his men into two parties. The one to which Carson belonged was directed to go to the Sacramento Valley, in California, (which, it must be remem- bered, then belonged to Mexico,) while the other party was to return to New Mexico for new traps and supplies. Mr. Young took the command of the party going to Cali- fornia, a country less known at that day than is Central Asia at the present. They were informed by the Indians that they would be compelled to cross a sterile, desert country, entirely devoid of water, when they would reach a beautiful valley whose streams abounded with beaver. By carrying water with them, they avoided suffering from this cause, although it was not until the close of the fourth day after entering upon this journey that they found any signs of. moisture and drink. After journeying several days ‘over another sterile waste, they reached the Colorado, and encountered a party of Mohave Indians, that furnished them with provisions, the most important of which was an old mare, whose body furnished a sumptuous feast for the half-famished trappers. From the Colorado they proceeded south-west, following a stream part of the way, which, after running a considerable distance, disappears in the quicksand of the Great Basin. From the Indians they received accounts of the almost com- plete massacre of a party which went over the same ground, and toward the same destination, some two years before, Several days after, they reached the Mission of San Gabriel, where, halting but a day, they pressed onward to San Fernan- dina, and finally reached the San Joaquin River. The country was found to be as beautiful and fertile as had been represented. The men commenced trapping down the San Joaquin River. To their surprise they discovered signs of another party constantly preceding them. After reconnoiter- ing awhile, they found that a number of men belonging to the Hudson’s Bay Company were traveling down the river. As there was plenty of game in the neighborhood, and abundant room for both, the two parties amicably met and remained on the most friendly terms. Journeying together until the Sacramento River was passed, the parties separated, / 16 TUE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. one going northward to the Columbia, while the Americans remained in the vicinity through the summer, to hunt and trap. Most of the season was spent by Carson in hunting and exploring the neighboring country; and before the party returned, he had gained a thorough knowledge of a large portion of California. In early autumn the trappers turned their steps homeward, visiting on their route Los Angelos, (formerly known as Puebla de los Angelos, the “ City of the Angels”,) where the Mexican authorities demanded their passports. Mr. Young quietly informed them they were not discommoded with such papers. The-authorities determined to arrest the whole party, and yet, knowing the indomitable courage of the trappers, dared not resort to force. The plan was to get the whole party hope- lessly drunk, when the Mexicans would seize, and, in all - probability, massacre every one of the “invaders.” Understanding fully their intentions, Young sent Carson in advance, with several of the best men, instructing him to take the equipage and stores of furs. If the leader failed shortly to join him, Carson was to press on to New Mexico with the intelligence that he and the remainder of the party had been massacred. Carson did as directed; and Young and his men remained at the mercy of the cut-throats called Mexicans. In spite of all he could do, Young’s men kept getting more and more intoxicated, until, as he was about to despair, two of them got into a quarrel, during which a rifle was discharged. This so alarmed the cowardly, bloodthirsty natives, that they fled at once, and Young was allowed to march his reeling men forward. They literally owed their lives to their throats. Nine days later, having again joined Carson’s advance com- pany, they reached the Colorado, where they commenced setting their traps, with the intention of remaining several days. While most of the men were thus engaged, several hundred Indians made their appearance, and, with many signs of friendship, came into the camp. Carson and his men felt suspicious, and, by watching the savages closely, they soon discovered that all had weapons concealed under their gar- ments. Their undoubted intention was to murder the whole party. A RUSE ON THE MEXICANS. a There was but one course to adopt. To have shown timidity would have been instant death. Carson, putting on an appearance of great indignation, ordered the savages to leave the camp instantly, or he and his men would attack them at once. The Indians were somewhat taken aback by this; and, fearing the return of the rest of the party they finally withdrew, without offering any harm. The unflinching nerve of “the little fellow” sayed the whites from the tomahawk of the red miscreants. The treachery of the Indians compelled the utmost vigilance, The trappers felt they were never safe from attack; by their Sagacity and bravery they averted the impending danger. They continued trapping down the Colorado until tide-water was reached, when they returned up the Gila to the San Pedro. There a large herd of cattle was captured from a body of marauding Indians. Crossing to the copper mines of New Mexico, they left their furs, and pressed on to Santa Fé, in order to procure a government liccnse to trade with the Indians at the copper mines. Instead of trading, however, upon their return they simply took possession of the furs they had left, and brought them into Santa Fé, where the stock was sold for over twenty thousand dollars. The ruse suc- ceeded so completely, that none but the trappers themselves Suspected the game they had played upon the authorities of Mexico. Disposing of their peltries and dividing the proceeds, the company disbanded. Carson remained in Santa Fé until the autumn of 1830, passing the time pleasantly and profitably in studying maps, making acquaintances with guides, learning the Indian tongue, etc., etc. An experienced mountaineer named Fitzpatrick organized a party, in the fall, for the purpose of trapping on the streams in the Rocky Mountains. It is hardly necessary to say that Kit Carson was among the first to enlist in the adventure. The party traveled northward, going up the Platte and Sweetwater, beyond Goose creek, finally reaching Salmon River, where it remained during the winter. Near by was the Nez Percé tribe, who remained on the most friendly terms with the trappers, and joined them in many of their hunts and different expeditions. Their old enemies, the Black- feet, however, hovered in the vicinity, and succeeded, upon ee THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. one occasion, in murdering four of the friendly redskins who were engaged in hunting the buffalo in company with the whites. In the spring of 1881, the men resumed trapping, and, while upon Green River, came upon another party, who informed them that Captain Gaunt, a celebrated hunter and trapper well known to them all, was at New Park, on the head waters of the Arkansas, with his men. This was a long way, but Carson determined to join him. Taking several companions, he set out, and; in due time, reached and united with him the old hunter, in whose braver Fr skill and endurance Carson found his match. Trapping operations were commenced at once, in the vicinity of the New Park. Having secured all the beaver possible, they left for the Arkansas, where their Jabors were continued, while Captain Gaunt departed with the furs to New Mexico. His stock was well disposed of at Santa Fé, and he returned in good spirits to his men. They trapped a short time after his return, when all went into winter-quarters. In the dead of winter a party of. thieving Crow Indians stole into the camp at night, and made off with several of their best horses. §o silently and cautiously did they effect the tlreft, that it was morning before the loss was discovered. At daybreak several of the men detected unmistakable signs, and a few moments’ rapid inspection made them aware of their really great loss. The loss of their horses was too great for the trappers to bear. Carson resolved they should be recovered. A dozen gallant fellows, under his lead, instantly mounted and started out upon the trail of the thieves. After traveling nearly fifty miles, their horses became so fatigued and worn out, that their riders were forced to make a halt, in a grove near at hand. Riding toward it, they detected the smoke of a camp-fire, and rightly concluded the very rascals they were seeking were thus near them. A few minutes’ reconnoitering showed them that such was the case. The trappers at once consulted upon the proper method of attack. The weather was of intense coldness, and as there was a quantity of snow upon the ground, it can be readily seen that the situation of the whites was by no means enviable. aS ee ee —_—_ es ee eee ee ATTACKS AN INDIAN BAND. 19 It was decided to defer the attack until nightfall, when it was belieyed the chances of success would be much greater, A closer examination showed the Indians to be entirely unsuspicious of the presence of the trappers. They were holding a grand jollification over their success, and from present appearances seemed to have concluded to make quite a stay in the neighborhood. They had erected a sort of breast-work, so that, in case of attack, they could make quite a formidable defense. Late in the night, Carson and several of his men stole noiselessly into the grove, cut all of their own horses loose, and succeeded in driving them all away, without attracting the attention of a single Indian. After getting fairly out of danger, Carson stopped, and informed his companions that they were letting off their enemies too easily. He was in favor of punishing them for the outrage they had committed. Most of the trappers were opposed to any open attack against such odds; but Carson and one or two companions persisted in the determination to “punish” the Crows. At length the whole band agreed to join attack, bravely determining not to desert their leader. They turned, cautiously entered the grove, and were not discovered until almost upon the Indians. The latter made a brave stand, driving the trappers inch by inch from the ground; but their unerring rifles told with such fearful effect that the Indians finally broke and fled; and the * trappers, after gaining this “satisfaction” of a momentary victory, withdrew and returned to camp. Having cached their furs on the banks of the Arkansas, the men commenced trapping on a fork of the Platte.* While thus engaged, two of their number deserted, and Gaunt, sus- pecting their design, dispatched Carson and a companion in pursuit. The pursuers made their way to the cache, where, as expected, they found that the deserters had made off with alarge portion of the furs. Determined on recovering the property, Carson and his friend followed in pursuit; but, finally, lost all traces of them. They were never heard of afterward, and the supposition is that they were slain by the Indians, who infested every section of the country. * A cache is simply a pit dug in the ground, in which a trapper conceals his peltries, until i a etn and seeure them. 20 THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. Carson and his companion were in such danger from dis- covery and capture, that they decided to remain where they were, instead of seeking to rejoin Captain Gaunt. They erected a rude sort of fort, where they tarried for several weeks, both never sleeping at the same time. A few weeks later they were relieved by a party under the command of Gaunt’s partner; and, some time later, they all reunited with the captain’s party at the Salt Springs. They continued trapping on the streams in the vicinity, continually harassed by the Indians, who lost no opportunity of annoying them. One of the narrowest escapes Carson ever met with occurred at this time. He and several companions, while searching in the mountains for “beaver-sign,” were drawn into an ambush of over fifty cut-throats, all armed and mounted, and upon the “war-path.” There was no retreat, and, putting spurs to their horses, they dashed ahead at the top of their speed, and passed safely through a perfect storm of bullets from the surprised Indians. The party met with such poor success, that Carson deter- mined to organize a party of his own, and commence trapping in the mountains. The danger attending this enterprise was so great, that two only consented to join him. These, how- ever, were men well entitled to be companions with Kit Carson. The little band, buoyant and hopeful, left Captain Gaunt’s party, who wished them good success, and struck off toward the mountains. The step was one of extreme hazard, requir- ing indomitable courage, tireless vigilance, and sagacity superior to that of the wild Indian; but, for these reasons, it was Car- son’s choice—he was now in his truce element, from which he was sure to come off victorious. SS ~~ eS © PURSUIT OF A IWORSE-THIEF. 21 CH APE Rickie CARSON MEETS WITH GREAT SUCCESS—RETURNS TO TAOS—JOINS A TRADING EXPEDITION—HIS HUNT OF A THIEVING INDIAN—ORGANIZES ANOTHER TRAPPING PARTY—HIS ADVENTURE WITH TWO GRIZZLY BEARS—GOES TO THE BLACKFOOT COUNTRY WITH CAPTAIN BRIDGER—THEIR HORSES STOLEN —THEIR FIGHT WITH THE BLACKFEET—CARSON SAVES THE LIFE OF MARK- HEAD, AND IS BADLY WOUNDED—CARSON’S DUEL WITH THE ‘BIG BULLY OF THE MOUNTAINS.” Carson and his two companions trapped with great success among the mountains. Most of the Indians being out upon the prairies, they were unmolested by them. After collecting a large quantity of excellent furs, they returned to Taos, where they realized a handsome sum from their sale. While his com- panions spent their share in the same manner that Jack Tar does when he enters port, Kit was prudent enough to act the part of a wise man, and lay by his hard-earned money. Undecided what to do, Carson came across Captain Lee, a partner of Bent & St. Vrain, who was preparing an expedition from Taos to the north. He invited Carson to join him, and arrangements were soon made. Following the ‘ Old Spanish Trail,’ they reached Green River, where they found Mr. Robideau, with some twenty men, engaged in trapping and hunting. As it was late in the season, the whole party went into winter-quarters at the mouth of Winty River. Before spring, an incident occurred highly characteristic of the hero of this narrative. During the winter, a California Indian, attached to Robideaw’s party, stole six of his horses, and made off with them before the theft was discovered. This Indian was a courageous and dangerous customer, and he had exhibited his prowess upon more than one occasion. _ Robideau could ill afford the loss of six of his best horses; and, exasperated at the treachery of the savage, he requested Carson to follow him. The gallant fellow did not hesitate a moment; but, taking with him an equally brave and intelli- gent Ut tah warrior, started immediately in pursuit. Both were 22 TEE LIFE OF KIT CARSON, finely mounted, and they followed the trail with great speed down Green River, Carson judging that the Indian’s destina- tion was California. They had already gone a hundred miles, when the horse of his Indian companion was suddenly taken sick, Carson urged the Utah to accompany him on foot; but, properly enough, he refused, and the impetuous fellow, without thinking of turning back, or of losing time in useless argument, continued the pursuit alone. Thirty miles further he descried the fugitive. The two discovered each other at the same moment. The Indian instantly sought cover, from which he could fire as Carson came up. The horse of the latter was on a full run, and while the Indian was making for a tree, and without checking his animal in the least, Carson brought his rifle to his shoulder and fired. It was not an instant too soon; for it was echoed by the Indian’s gun, whose ball whistled by the mountaineer’s ears, as the savage himself sprung in the air with the yell of death cn his lips. Carson leisurely gathered the horses together and made his way back to the camp, where, as may be supposed, Robideau was greatly rejoiced to see him. Shortly after this, Carson organized another trapping party, consisting only of three beside himself, and started for Lara- mie. River, where the summer was spent with unusual success. It was ‘while engaged here that Carson had an adventure which his biographer, Dr. Peters, says he considers the nar- rowest escape of his life. Late one afternoon, he went on foot into the mountains, for the purpose of shooting game for their evening meal. Sighting several elk, he brought one down. Just as he discharged his rifle, he was startled by hearing a threatening growl behind him. Looking around, he beheld two colossal grizzly bears lumbering rapidly toward him. No time remained to load his gun, and, dropping the useless weapon, he started at the top of his speed for the nearest tree. Fleet as the man was, as he caught a lower limb and swung himself upward, the foremost bear brushed his leg! Bending « stumpy limb downward, Carson cut away at it for dear life, and wrenched it off, just as the bears commenced climbing the tree. Swinging it over his head, he brought his club down upon their noses with such effect that the monsters shook their heads, and fairly howled with pain. © ‘“\ pat ADVENTURE WITH TWO GRIZZLYS. » 28 It was not to be supposed that such formidable brutes would yield the fight easily. Again and again they returned to the attack. But Kit was merciless) He thwacked their noses industriously. The monsters, becoming furious with rage, screeched and squalled, and got more and more infuriated, until they made one maddened, desperate attempt to reach up and haul the fellow from his perch. But it was useless; the blows were redoubled, and their noses pounded terribly, till one of them actually shed tears from pain; and both, con- cluding that Kit Carson was never intended for their embraces, made a sullen retreat, “and were never heard of. afterward.”* When they were fairly out of sight, Carson descended, and, recovering his gun, made his way back to camp. Some time after this adventure, the trappers were visited by an old mountaineer named Bridger, and hismen. The two companies united and visited the summer rendezvous on Green River. In the autumn of 1832, Carson joined a company of fifty, who entered the country of the Blackfeet, for the pur- pose of carrying on the fall hunt. The Blackfeet cherished such hatred toward the whites, that, day and night, they haunted the grounds for them, and none of the trappers dared go out of sight of the camp alone. They failed, too, to meet with even ordinary success; and, in November, abandoned the country in disgust, and spent the winter on Big Snake River. Even here they were not safe from the inveterate Blackfeet. One cold, dark night a company of these Indians entered the camp and run off eighteen of their best horses. As the trappers had borne a series of continual annoyances and out- rages all through the winter, without retaliation, they concluded this last step was presuming too much on forbearance. It was unanimously agreed that the thieves should be punished. Carson, of course, was the man chosen to do it. Selecting eleven companions, all mounted, they started upon the trail. There being a heavy fall of snow, no difficulty was experienced * The reader must not gather from this adventure of Carson’s that the grizzly bear is wanting in courage and ferocity. He is unmistakably the most formidable animal on the North American continent, if not in the whole world. Dr. Peters, the ee of Carson, once saw thirty brave and mounted men pursue a she grizzly and two cubs for three miles; but, so great was the terror of their animals, that it was impossible to bring them within shooting distance. We agree fully with Dr. Peters, in believe ing that even the lion of the old world does not surpass this brute in courage, strength, persistence and sagacity. 24 THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. in tracing the savages, and, after a ride of’ fifty miles, they came upon them. The stolen horses were seen grazing upon a side-hill, and an attempt was made at once to recover them. The savages, wearing snow-shoes, had much the advantage of the trappers, and easily prevented this, and immediately sought a parley. This was willingly granted, and communications commenced between the two parties. The Blackfeet affirmed they had committed a great mistake, believing the horses to belong to the Snake Indians. They averred further that they had no wish to steal from their white friends. Carson then demanded why, if their intentions were peaceful, they did not lay aside their arms and advance. After a few minutes spent in unsatisfactory conversation, both parties agreed to do this. Accordingly, leaving their arms behind, the two parties met. The calumet, or pipe of peace, was produced and smoked by every white man and Indian, after which the council was held. To all demands of the trappers, the Indians made evasive replies, until, pressed to the point, they produced five miserable animals, declaring that they could do no more toward satisfy- ing the demand made upon them. The trappers, seeing that all argument was now at an end, turned and run for their arms. The Indians did the same, and the fight commenced. In the rush, Carson and a friend named Markhead secured their rifles first, and for this reason were the first in the ad- vance, The two chose for their mark a couple of Indians partially concealed by two trees. Just as Carson was about to fire, he saw that Markhead’s adversary was aiming and upon the point of firing at Markhead, while the latter was examining his gun, without. noticing his impending peril. Carson’s own life was in danger, and yet he saw his com- panion would be shot immediately if another arm did not intervene. Changing his ‘aim, he shot Markhead’s enemy dead, and then endeavored to dodge the bullet that was instantly fired by his own foe. He succeeded in saving his life, but was badly woundéd. The bullet struck the left side of his neck, and, glancing downward, went through his shoulder, shattering the bone. He tried to reload his gun, but found that his left arm was useless, and he could only stand and witness the fight. The contest was kept up until night, when both parties withdrew, and failed to renew hostilities, ~ e, at, he ont ed, é ter, d to this, on & men z the arney e, and ° ometer he sco became as lime- ynnoyed yas, any » readers x buffalo A BUFFALO CHASE. 41 hunt, and we will here transcribe the account which Fremont gives of one in which he participated : “A few miles brought us into the midst of the buffalo, swarm- ing in immense numbers over the. plains, where they had left scarcely a blade of grass standing. Mr. Preuss, who was sketching af a little distance in the rear, had at first noted them as large groves of timber. In the sight of such a mass of life, the traveler feels a strange emotion of grandeur. We had heard from a distance a dull and confused murmuring, and when we came in view of their dark masses, there was not one among us who did not feel his heart beat quicker. It was the early part of the day, when the herds are feeding; and everywhere they were in motion. Here and there a huge old bull was rolling in the grass, and clouds of dust rose in the air from various parts of the bands, each the scene of some obstinate fight. Indians and buffalo make the poetry and life of the prairie, and our camp was full of exhilaration. In place of the quiet monotony of the march, relieved only by the cracking of the whip, and an ‘avance donc! enfant de garce!’ shouts and songs resounded. from every part of the line, and our eyening camp was always the commencement of a feast, which terminated only with our departure on the following morning. At any time of the night might be seen pieces of the most delicate and choicest meat, roasting en appolas, on sticks around the fire, and the guard were never without company. With pleasant weather and no enemy to fear, and abundance of the most excellent meat, and no scarcity of bread and tobacco, they were enjoying the oasis of a voyageur’s life. Three cows were killed to-day. Kit Car- son had shot one, and was continuing the chase in the midst of another herd, when his horse fell headlong, but sprung up and joined the flying band. ‘Though considerably hurt, he had the good fortune to break no bones; and Maxwell, who was mounted on a fleet hunter, captured the runaway after a hard chase. He was on the ‘point of shooting him, to avoid the loss of his bridle, (a handsomely mounted eaten: one,) when he found that his horse was able to come up with him. Animals are frequently lost in this way; and it is necessary to keep close watch over them, in the vicinity of the buffalo, in the midst of which they scour off to the plains, and are rarely retaken, One of our mules took a sudden freak into his head, and joined a neighboring band to-day. As we are not in a condition to lose horses, I sent several men in pursuit, and remained in camp, in the hope of recovering him; but lost the afternoon to no purpose, as we did not see him again. “On the 1st of July, as we were riding quietly along the bank, a grand herd of buffalo, some seven or eight hundred in number, came crowding up from the river, where they had been to drink, and commenced crossing the plain slowly, eating as they 43 THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. ~ went. The wind was favorable; the coolness of the morning invited to exercise; the ground was apparently good, and the distance across the prairie (two or three miles) gave us a fine opportunity to charge them before they could get among the river-hills. It was too fine a prospect for a chase to be lost; and, halting for a few moments, the hunters were brought up and saddled, and Kit Carson, Maxwell and I started together. They were now somewhat less than a mile distant, and we rode easily along until within about three hundred yards, when a sudden agitation, a wavering in the band, and a galloping to and fro of some which were scattered along the skirts, gave us the intimation that we were discovered. We started together at a hand-gallop, riding steadily abreast of each other, and here the interest of the Chase became so engrossingly intense that we were sensible to nothing else. We were now closing upon them rapidly ; the front of the mass was already in rapid motion for the hills, and in a few seconds the movement had communicated itself to the whole herd. “A crowd of bulls, as usual, brought up the rear, and every now and then some of them faced about, and then dashed on after the band a short distance, and turned and looked again, as if more than half inclined to stand and fight. In afew moments, however, during which we had been quickening our pace, the rout was universal, and we were going over the ground like a hurricane. When within thirty yards, we gave the usual shout, and broke into the herd. e entered on the side, the mass giving way in every direction in their heedless course. Many of the bulls, less active and less fleet, paying no attention to the ground, and occupied solely with the hunter, 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, sprung on after the cow like a tiger. In a few moments he brought me alongside of her, and, rising in the stirrups, I fired at the distance of a yard, the ball entering at the termination of the long hair, and passing near the heart. She fell headlong at the report of the gun, and, checking my horse, I looked around for my companions. Ata 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 scat- tered bands, at some distance below, I caught a glimpse of Maxwell, and 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, and giving my horse the rein, we dashed after them. A thick cloud of dust hung upon their rear, which filled my mouth } DANGERS FROM THE SIOUX. 43 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 every thing 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; and singling out a cow, I gave her my fire, but struck her 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. CROSSING THE DESERT. 63 Fremont spent some time in examining the adjoining coun- try, extending his observations as far down as the Great Salt Lake. As his interesting observations of this have long since been published and read, we need not, in this place, make further reference to them. They were now upon the edge cf a vast desert (known now as Fremont’s Basin) of which none knew more than that it * was a terra incognita to every trapper and hunter in the West. No white man ever had dared to cross it. Carson had often been upon its borders, and been told by the oldest hunters that no one could cross it. A country like this, supposed to be several hundreds of miles in extent, devoid of water and vege- tation, might well make the expedition halt. But Fremont and every one of his men were filled with an ambition to unfold its hidden wonders, and preparations were made for the journey across the mysterious waste. Carson, Maxwell, and one or two companions, were sent ahead to prepare the way, and secure camping-ground, while Fremont ascended a mountain with his telescope, to watch for their signals. It was not until they had gone a distance of sixty miles that he detected a faint column of smoke from the advance-party—an evidence that a camping site was found, Fremont descended and set out at once, but was compelled to encamp before he had gone half the distance, owing to the darkness coming upon them. The next morning the two parties united, at the spot selected by Carson. ‘To facilitate matters, Fremont divided his command into two parties, giving one to Talbot, with Walker—an experienced hunter—for his guide. This he instructed to proceed to Mary’s River, which they were to follow to its terminus in the Great Basin, while he explored the country south of Mary’s River. They were to reunite at Car- son Lake, on the opposite side of the desert. The country through which Fremont journeyed was found to be well. wooded, with plenty of grass and water. He followed up Carson River to Sutter’s Fort, where he purchased some horses and cattle, and set out to hunt for Talbot and his party. Los- ing some of the animals, and the others becoming foot-sore, he returned to Sutter’s Fort to recruit, after which a second search was instituted. They hunted along the Coast Range, visited San José, and inquired of the Mexicans and Indians. They 64 THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. were told that a party was encamped upon the San Joaquin. Carson, with,a couple of companions, was sent to sec whethe these were their friends. A few days later, he returned witl them, and the expedition was once more united under Fremont, It was now determined to go to Monterey, and purchase stores; but, when within a short distance, General Castro, the Mexican commander, ordered them to leave the territory on pain of being ignominiously driven out. Fremont, feeling no disposition to comply with this impudent order, fortified him- Self so as to be ready to argue the question of being “ driven out.” It turned out in the end that the gallant Mexican’s courage extended no further than to mere threats. After waiting three days for the attack, Fremont struck his camp, and retired to Sacramento River, which he followed up to Lawson’s trading-post. There he remained over a week, pur- chasing the stores he so much needed. Some American settlers came in and informed Fremont that a thousand Indian warriors were mustering for the purpose of destroying their ranches. Being disposed to gratify them, Fremont led his men, including several volunteers from the Post, to attack them. The village was found, and a hot and well-contested engagement commenced. The savages finally were routed with great loss. Leaving the trading-post, Fremont set out for the Columbia River. When he reached Klamath Lake, he received news that war had been declared between the United States and Mexico. This intelligence was communicated. by Lieutenant Gillespie, who had sent forward two of his men for that. pur- pose. Learning that the lieutenant himself was in a perilous situation, with only three or four men, Fremont took ten of his best men (including Carson) and set out for the purpose of relieving him. He met him on the way, however, safe and unharmed. They went into camp together, and spent several hours delightfully in conversing of home and the news that each possessed. Fremont sat up beyond midnight reading the letters he had: received, when he turned in and went to sleep. Some time after, Carson was awakened by hearing a sound like the stroke of an ax. Rising carefully to his feet, he saw that Indians were in the camp. He aroused Owens, who was sleeping near him, and several others. Attached to = DEATH OF BASIL LAJBUNESSE. 65 the expedition were a number of friendly Delawares, who also sprung to their feet. The alarm soon spread. One of the Delawares, upon being approached by the savages, caught up a rifle, not knowing that it was unloaded. He stood his ground like a hero, endeavoring to fire it, until he was pierced by five arrows, either one of which would have killed him. At this point he dropped and expired. Carson, on catching up his own rifle, remembered that that, too, was unloaded, he having cleaned it during the evening.- Drawing a single- barreled pistol, he made at the fellow who was discharging his arrows into the Delaware. He fired, but failed to hit him, owing to an ineessant dodging which the savage kept up. Maxwell now fired at him, wounding him in the leg. The redskin turned to run,. but had scarcely taken a step when he was shot through the heart by one of the mountaineers. The rest of the Indians scattered, and soon disappeared in the darkness, The sound which had awakened Carson was the passage of an Indian’s tomahawk through the brain of poor Basil Lajeunesse and a Delaware Indian. The former was one of Fremont’s favorites, and a braver spirit was never known. He had accompanied the explorer on his two former expedi- tions, and his courage and goodness of heart had endeared him to every one. : It was a solemn sight—the funeral of these three brave men. They were carried some ten miles westward, and a half-mile to the side of the trail a grave was dug for them. As the inani- mate forms were gently lowered into the grave, there was not an undimmed eye in the party. ‘Among them all,” says Dr. Peters, “none would have failed to note the countenance of Kit Carson, for on it were visible the throes which were troubling his kind heart on being thus obliged to separate from his old friends.” Several mountaineers remained behind to watch for and punish what Indians might be lurking upon their trail. They discovered two, who were shot and scalped. The savages who had murdered Lajeunesse and the two Delawares belonged to the Klamath tribe, and a vow was made by all that they should be punished. Fremont, on account of the war with Mexico, determined 66 THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. to return to California. Upon journeying around the lake mentioned, he, found himself in the neighborhood of the place where he had lost his three men. Here his men manifested such a desire to avenge their death, that he sent Carson ahead with ten men, instructing him, if he discovered the village without alarming it, to send back word, and he would hasten forward and assault it; but if the Indians should detect him, he was to attack them at once. Carson moved on, discovered the village, and was discovered himself in turn. ‘Without losing time, he dashed right into it, and was soon engaged in a furious combat with over a hundred maddened Indians. They maintained their ground obstinately for a short time, but were soon panic struck at the ferocity of the whites, and fled in the greatest terror. The lodges, and all that they could lay hands on, were piled together and fired by the scouts. When Fremont came up, every thing was finished. Upon consulting together, after they had moved some distance further, he sent back Richard Owens with twenty men, to wait in the vicinity of the village during the night, to see whether any of the Indians returned. Owens had been there but a short time, before he discerned over fifty savages in the moonlight, moving around the ruins of the village. He instantly sent a messenger back to Fremont, who returned as quickly as possible with six of his men. When he came up, there was but one Indian visible. Carson dashed at this one, and, when within a dozen feet, raised his gun to fire; but it snapped, and, in another minute, he would have been pierced through by an arrow, had not Fremont charged and rode the savage down. Owens stated that, while the messenger he sent to Fremont was absent, the rest of the Indians departed. The one men- tioned was the only one slain. They now hastened to rejoin their friends in camp, fearful that they might be attacked in their absence. But they had not been visited, and no savages made their appearance during the night. Shortly after, the expedition arrived safely at Pete Lawson’s Fort. Before closing the chapter, we will relate a singular incident that occurred when the expedition was four days’ march on its journey to the Sacramento Valley. While Maxwell and Archambeau were out hunting, they suddenly saw an Indian SINGULAR ADVENTURE. 67 approaching them on foot. In order to show that they were friendly, the hunters laid down their arms, and made signs that they wished to converse with him. The Indian con- tinued to approach without the least evidence of fear, and Maxwell and his companion watched his motions with a great deal of curiosity. Suddenly he halted and took several young crows from his quiver, and, concealing them carefully in the grass, moved on again, arranging his arrows so as to use them. When within fifteen or twenty yards, to the astonishment of the hunters, he commenced letting his arrows fly at them. They dodged them for a while, calling out to him to cease; but he paid no attention, and rained a perfect shower of his dangerous missiles at them. Finding that he was determined to kill them, the hunters were compelled to shoot him in self- defense. : No one could conceive what the Indian meant by his strange conduct. The men had no wish to kill him, but were forced to do so in order to save their own lives. THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. TEER ah Nas CAPTURE OF SONOMA-—PURSUIT OF A LARGE MEXICAN FORCE— CARSON STARTS AS BEARER OF DISPATCHES TO WASHINGTON—ESCAPE FROM THE APACHES—MEETS GENERAL KEARNEY AND RETURNS AS GUIDE WITH HIM —ATTACK OF THE MEXICAN FORCE IN THE INDIAN VILLAGE—THEIR RETREAT AND PURSUIT — TERRIBLE SLAUGHTER OF THE AMERICANS— THEIR CRITICAL SITUATION, Tue expedition remained at Lawson’s Fort, for a week, when Fremont became so anxious to engage himself in the coming trouble that he proceeded to a point on the Sacra- mento, where he waited for instructions. After several days spent thus, he concluded it was only wasting time, and accordingly sent a part of his men to take Sonoma, a weak Mexican garrison. This was accomplished successfully. Shortly after, positive tidings reached Fremont that actual war had commenced between the United States and Mexico. He immediately set forward and joined his men at Sonoma. While here, General Castro sent a large force to dislodge the Americans. The captain of these troops, upon arriving in the neighborhood, heard that “Los Yankees” were anxious to engage him. ‘This so frightened him that he instantly turned and commenced a rapid retreat! The Americans pursued for six days, capturing many of the Mexican’s animals, when, finding it impossible to overtake the “ greasers,” they returned to Sonoma. ' Soon after this, Fremont, with a force greatly augmented by volunteers, proceeded to Sutter’s Fort. It was some weeks later that the command of California fell into the hands of Commodore Stockton. As the doings of Fremont and the Commodore are not directly connected with this narrative, we will refer the reader to~already published accounts. Commodore Stockton having appointed Fremont governor of California, Carson was placed in the command of fifteen men, in the middle of Sep- tember, 1846, and instructed to make an overland journey to MEETS WITIE THE APACHES, 69 Washington in sixty days, as the bearer of dispatches to the Government. Kit promised tg do it, although he well knew what formidable dangers and difficulties would have to be encountered for hundreds of miles of the almost pathless way. Two days out from the Copper Mines of New Mexico, he most unexpectedly came upon a village of hostile Apache Indians. Here, again, the shrewdness and quick wit of the Scout proved the salvation of the party. He rode calmly along without the least evidence of fear, and halted in a wood within a stone’s throw of the village. This bold proceeding took the Indians aback. They knew not what to make of it. Carson demanded a parley, which, being granted, he stated that his company were only travelers, and he wished to exchange horses with them, as his own were completely worn out. The Apaches professed to be satisfied; and, selecting a site where he could guard against the treachery of this most treacherous race, Carson commenced the traffic. After pro- curing a truly valuable horse for each of his men, the march was resumed. In an exhausted condition, the Mexican set- tlements were reached. Although, at this time, these people- were at war with our people, their affection and respect were great for the renowned Kit Carson, and the men were feasted like princes. : The march being resumed on the 6th of October, Carson detected a faint speck away in the horizon, which continued to approach, and finally assumed the appearance of men in line. Watching with the greatest anxiety, he soon saw they were mounted horsemen, and, upon coming up, he found it to be an expedition sent out by his Government, under General Kearney, to California. Carson informed Gen. Kearney of his business, and gave a — graphic account of the state of affairs in California. The General was much gratified to meet him, and requested him to guide his expedition back to California, while the dispatches should be forwarded to their destination by Mr. Fitzpatrick. Kit was but a short distance from Taos at this time, where his anxious family were expecting him; yet, without a moment’s hesitation, he curtly answered: “As the General pleases ;” and immediately turned about and entered upon his duties. Dr. Peters states that no man in the world has a greater affec- 70 THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON, tion for his wife and children than Christopher Carson; but his highest ambition is ever to prove himself worthy of the confidence reposed in him, and‘he never allows any thing to interfere with his duty. Fitzpatrick moved eastward with the dispatches. Carson conducted Kearney with so much promptitude and certainty that Warner’s Ranche, in California, was reached December 8d. While marching from this point toward San Diego, General Kearney captured several spies, who, being compelled to give evidence, stated that a large number of California Mexicans had taken up a position on the route with the intention of attacking them.* Kearney, anxious to engage what he supposed to be these “stupid Mexicans,” moved for- ward until he was within fifteen miles, when he ordered a halt, and sent forward Lieutenant Hammond, with a small party, to reconnoiter. Upon his return, he stated that the Mexican soldiers were strongly fortified in an Indian village. General Kearney decided to attack them at once; and, with- out giving his men or animals any rest, moved forward at one o’clock in the morning toward the village. The Mexican ‘guard slept in their dress, ready at a minute’s warning to mount their horses which were near them. Captain Jolnson, Kit Carson and fifteen soldiers advanced at a rapid gallop upon the outpost and endeavored to stampede their animals. They failed to accomplish this, owing to the vigilance of their enemies, but drove the guard in with the loss of several of their number. : Captain Moore, with twenty-five Americans, now came up and ordered an attack upon the center of the village, for the purpose of creating confusion in the Mexican ranks. The men dashed away, Kit Carson leading at a rapid pace, when his horse suddenly fell, throwing him over hishead. He retained his hold upon the bridle, although several dragoons galloped over him, and the stock of his rifle was shattered to pieces. This accident, however, was Carson’s salvation. Finding his rifle useless, he ran to a dead dragoon, und, seizing his gun and cartridge-box, again mounted and dashed ahead, with only * The reader must bear in mind that the Mexicans of California were a much braver race than those further south. It was this fact that led Kit Carson to warn General Kearney against attacking them while his own troops were in such a poor condition ; and, had this warning been heeded, he would have been saved the pain of what followed. pm BATTLE WITH THE MEXICANS. 71 one or two slight bruises. He was soon in the hottest part of the fight. Captain Johnson and several men already had been killed, but the impetuosity of the Americans finally dislodged the Mexicans and compelled them to retreat. The dragoons followed, when a most unexpected circumstance proved their ruin. Nearly all were mounted upon mules, while the horses of the rest were hardly yet broken to the saddle. At the - critical moment they proved unmanageable. The mules upon which Captain Moore’s men were mounted, in spite of the strenuous exertions of their riders, separated from each other, and, in a short time, were scattered over the plain, so that the pursuit accomplished little, if any thing. The Mexicans, dis- covering the predicament of the Americans, turned the fight into a furious massacre. They set upon the separated and unfortunate horsemen, hewing them down without mercy. Out of the forty dragoons, thirty-six were either killed or des- perately wounded. Among those already slain was Captain Moore, “as brave a man,” says Carson, “as ever drew breath.” General Kearney, seeing his men swept down like chaff, drew his sword, and, although badly wounded himself, made a determined attempt to force the Mexicans to retreat, while Lieutenant Davidson came upon the ground with two mountain howitzers; but before these could be brought into play, the men who had charge of them were shot down, and an unerring lasso captured the horses attached to one, thus securing the howitzer to the Mexicans. At the distance of three hundred yards it was turned against the Americans, but from some cause or other, it failed to discharge. Lieutenant Davidson barely escaped with his life in an attempt to take it. There were only two officers beside Carson who were not killed or wounded. In their strait the Americans took refuge behind a ledge of rocks, where they waited for the Mexicans to attack them. No demonstration, however, was made during the day. The night was spent by our countrymen in the solemn duties of burying their dead and attending to the wounded. A watch was kept upon their enemies, and it was found they were constantly reinforced by Indians and Mexicans. A council of war was held by Gen. Kearney, which decided to advance on the morrow toward San Diego, in the hope of THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON, receiving aid upon the way. Three men had been dispatched to Commodore Stockton at San Diego, before the engagement ; but, upon their return, every one had been captured by the Mexicans. - - In the morning the march was commenced—Carson, with twenty-five men taking the advance, while the broken and disabled soldiers followed. They were in constant expectation of an attack, but moved forward firmly and steadily, until Kearney commanded a halt for the purpose of parleying with the Mexican forces. He offered to exchange a lieutenant which he held as prisoner, for one of the expressmen. This was effected, but it availed nothing, as the expressman stated that neither he nor his companions had proceeded to San Diego. The Mexicans. harassed the men, until, as they were about to encamp, they made a vigorous charge upon them in two separate divisions. The Americans made a bold stand, but were compelled to give way, at length, to the overwhelming numbers, and retreated in excellent order to an adjoining hill, where they awaited a renewal of the attack. The Mexicans, seeing the danger of attacking them in this stronghold, with- drew to a neighboring height, where they kept up a murder- ous fire upon the crippled band of soldiers. This soon became so galling that a party of Americans was sent to dislodge them, This was nobly effected, and General Kearney moved over with his entire force and occupied the height. But he gained little. Hardly enough water was found there for the men, without taking into account the wants of their animals. The situation of these men was now desperate indeed. Immense numbers of bloodthirsty Mexicans hovered like vul- tures around the gallant band, ready to attack and massacre them the instant they left their protecting shelter. The wants of nature would permit them to remain here but for a few days at most. Even now they were compelled to live upon . their mules. Despair was settling upon all. Even Gen. Kearney was ready to despair; for, who could see any avenue of escape? Surrounded constantly by a vigi- lant sentinel, imprisoned without the knowledge of any of the friends who could assist them, deprived of food and drink, eS a ane a “+ eg oo = roy DARING EXPLOIT. % and already half starved—their situation was such as might chill the most hopeful heart. In the dark hours, when every heart failed, and every arm was palsied, where was the Guide—the ever undaunted Chris- ‘topher Carson? Was he, too, despairing? Far from it; he was born for such crises; and, we have now to record an exploit that added to the already renown of his name. CHAPTER XitI. DARING EXPLOIT OF KIT CARSON AND LIBUTENANT BEALE. “Our case is indeed a desperate one,” said Kit Carson, “but there is still hope. If we remain here we are dead men. We can not live long, and our friends at San Diego know nothing of our situation ;- when they do they will hasten to our rescue. J will make the attempt to pass the Mexican lines, and reach Commodore Stockton at San Diego, who will send us assistance.” Lieutenant Beale, of the United States Navy, instantly volunteered to accompany Carson upon this perilous adven- ture. General Kearney gladly accepted this offer from these noble-hearted men, and they made ready for the attempt as soon as the darkness would permit. Night slowly settled over the plain, and enveloped the con- tending forces. The darkness was heavy, but objects could be distinguished some ten or twelve feet distant. The air was so still that the voices of the Mexicans could be heard as they conversed. Kit knew of a practice they had of apply- ing their ears to the ground, thus to detect even the slightest sound—a fact that added much to their peril, and detracted not a little from their hope to escape to the open country beyond the lines. But the lives of all the party depended upon these two men, and they were not the ones to falter or . turn back. : Early in the night the two men ventured forth, and, on their hands and knees, crept cautiously toward the Mexican i THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. lines. In spite of the caution and stillness with which they moved, they found their shoes made such a noise as to endan- ger their safety. Accordingly they were removed, and placed in their belts. They had gone but a few yards when they could hear the sentinels conversing, and distinguish the tramp of their feet. It-was the easiest matter in the world to crawl directly up to the feet of one of these men, but the most diffi- cult matter to avoid a collision with him. Everywhere the shadowy outlines of men could be seen, as the two made their way slowly and painfully forward. ! One row of sentinels was safely passed; but, ere Carson and Beale could draw a breath of relief, they encountered another, and still another. Like the cautious approach of a serpent, the adventurers wound their way through these three lines. Lieutenant Beale was beginning to congratulate him- self upon their success, when the feet of Carson, who was crawling before, touched him lightly upon the. shonlder. Looking up, to his amazement he distinguished a mounted sentinel riding toward them. They sunk flat upon the earth and hardly breathed, expecting the horse to ‘betray their presence, or to walk directly over them. ‘When they could reach out and nearly touch the leg of the animal, the sentinel dismounted, and proceeded very deliberately to light his cigar- etto. It required, seemingly, a long time, and, during these terrible seconds of suspense, so motionless and quiet did the two men lie, that, to this day, Kit Carson affirms he could plainly hear the pulsations of Lieutenant Beale’s heart. After atime the sentinel remounted, and rode off in an opposite direction. Again did the two move forward slowly and cautiously, Carson’s,eye piercing the gloom around them, watching for other evidence of danger. Onward, foot after foot, yard after yard, until fully two miles had been passed. Then, as they saw they were beyond sight of their enemies, they arose to their feet to congratulate each other, and thank God for the success of their perilous attempt. Feeling for their shoes they were found to be missing! While dragging themselves over the ground, they had dropped out and were lost. But they had no disposition to murmur; there was an exhilarating . .joy—an ardent hope, as they reflected that they were now SUCCHS3 OF THE ATTEMPT. % upon a journey of salvation for their friends—that the path was unobstructed. Away the two barefooted heroes sped for San Diego. Kit Carson knew all the traveled routes, and was well aware that each one was carefully guarded by their foes; so he avoided them, taking a circuitous way, and hurrying over the ground with the greatest rapidity.. His path led. him over hills and stony grounds, and in many places where the thorns of the prickly pear pierced their feet at every step. All through the night and the following day they persevered in their journey, bearing bravely up beneath the suffering which this forced march oecasioned them. Another night shut down around them; still the two men pressed onward. They had hardly halted a moment since starting, and to the pains of their lacerated feet were now added the pangs of hunger. Their only guide in their course was the eagle eye of Carson, which was as unerring as the compass. Again the night closed upon them, as they were pressing forward ; but they did not halt, and were soon rewarded by distinguishing in the distance the dark outlines of San Diego. They were fairly crazy with joy; and, answering the chal- lenge of the sentinels, “Friends,” in good English, were soon ushered into the presence of Commodore Stockton. With the characteristic promptness of that brave commander, nearly two hundred men were dispatched at once with instructions - to hasten to General Kearney’s relief, by means of forced marches. Carson’s feet were so inflamed and lacerated that there was danger of losing them, and he remaiued at San Diego, although his biographer has stated that, had Commo- dore Stockton breathed a hint about his returning, nothing could have prevented him. The effects of this fearful task of their powers was so great, that Lieutenant Beale was insane for several days, and it was a long time before he fully recovered from it. He was sent on board the frigate Congress, then lying in the harbor, for treatment, and not until two years from that day could he be prononnced perfectly well. The detachment sent for the relief of General Kearney made all haste thither, and liberated him without coming in collision with the Mexicans. ° THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. CLAP Tin Ree Kale CARSON SENT AS BEARER OF DISPATCHES TO WASHINGTON — ADVENTURE WITH INDIANS—-APPOINTED LIEUTENANT BY PRESIDENT POLK—RETURNS TO CALIFORNIA—SENT AGAIN AS BEARER OF DISPATCHES — LEARNS THAT HIS APPOINTMENT WAS NOT CONFIRMED BY THE SENATE, BUT CONTINUES HIS JOURNEY TO WASHINGTON—RETURNS TO TAOS. SHortxy after the event just narrated, that unhappy state of affairs sprung up, by which, in the end, Colonel Fremont was court-martialed. It is not our purpose, in this place, to enter upon the discussion of an affair which has long since been given to the public. Jealousy was the cause of John C. Fremont being arraigned before a court-martial; the facts of the case were the reason for the President and officers of the court recommending a commutation of his sentence; his gal- . lantry and uprightness of soul were the causes of the Pres- ident appointing him Commissioner to run the boundary line between the United States and Mexico. The fact that Carson voluntarily left Gen. Kearney and joined Fremont, and that the Mexicans surrendered to him in preference to any other commander; and, more than all, his after-history, when his name was placed in nomination for the Presidency of the Wnited States—all prove the just character and true greatness of the man. In the month of March, 1847, Carson was sent as the bearer of important dispatches to the war-department at Washington. His cherished friend, Lieutenant Beale, was one of the party. The Lieutenant was still so weak and exhatisted, that for three weeks Carson was obliged to help him on and off his horse, and, for a time, the Guide avers he feared he would not live to reach the States. Before the most dangerous part of their route was reached, however, he recruited so far as to care for himself. One very dark night, while encamped upon the Gila River, they were attacked by a band of Indians; but, through a strat- agem of Carson, all escaped without a scratch. He ordered his men to lie perfectly still, and hold their pack-saddles over ° CARSON AT WASHINGTON, V7 their heads. By doing this, the arrows that were showered upon them were rendered harmless. By not firing their guns, the Indians were unable to make out the precise spot where each man Jay; and they durst venture no nearer for fear of clubbed rifles. After using all their arrows, the savages with- drew, and did not trouble the travelers again. Nothing worth relating occurred to the party while cross- ing the plains. Their trusty rifles furnished them with food, and the great knowledge of their leader conducted them expeditiously over that great distance. Four thousand miles were traveled in the course of three months. When Kit arrived in St. Louis, he was introduced to the Hon. Thomas H. Benton. ‘Old Bullion” was much pleased with the Guide, to whom he gave a pressing invitation to remain, when in Washington, at the Senator’s house—a cour- tesy which was accepted by Carson, and his stay at the excel- lent Senator’s mansion is one of the most pleasant reminis- cences of his life. When he arrived at Washington, it was already dark; but, as he stepped out of the cars into the depdt, a lady accosted him, stating that she knew him from her husband’s description, and that he must make his stay at her father’s house. This lady was Mrs. John C. Fremont, and daughter of Colonel Benton. As stated, our hero accepted this genial invitation, which was rendered memora- ble by the many kindnesses he received. Being appointed lieutenant in the rifle-corps of the United States, he was ordered to recross the continent as bearer of dispatches, and, in a short time, was upon his way. At St. Louis he was compelled to leave Lieutenant Beale, who was too ill to proceed further with him, as he had hoped to do. At Fort Leavenworth he was placed at the head of fifty men, and immediately started westward. Before commencing this journey, he received intelligence that the Comanche Indians, one of the -most numerous and powerful tribes on the Ameri- can continent, were in open war with the whites. At a place called “ The Point of Rocks,” one of the most dangerous spots on the whole overland route, they found a company of United States volunteers, encamped, under Lieu- tenant Mulony. An attack was made upon them in the morning by a party of Comanches, when Carson made a THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON. sudden charge upon the assailants, scattcring them, saving all the animals. But three of his men were wounded—none killed. : At Santa Fé Carson left his fifty volunteers, and pursued ‘the journey with sixteen other men. This he was instructed to do for greater safety, as it was known that the men whom he would engage would be more capable of performing the remainder of the journey. On Muddy Oreek, he came unex- pectedly upon an Indian village; but Carson’s characteristic shrewdness carried him safely through, and, in due time, his dispatches were delivered into the hands of Col. Mason, at: Monterey. Almost immediately he was given his duty in the United States Dragoons, at Los Angelos. With twenty-five men he went to “Tajoa Pass,” with instructions to question the bands of Indians that continually passed, and to ascertain whether they had proper claims to what was in their posses- sion. He remained here until spring, when he was once more ordered to Washington with dispatches. He started with an escort, and, in crossing Grand River, lost a great deal of lug- gage, together with several valuable rifles. Some time after, the company encountered a large number of hostile Indians ; but Kit passed them safely by assuming a threatening and determined front. At Taos the men recruited a few days, Carson spending the time with his family, from whom he had s0 long been separated. At Santa Fé he received intelligence that his appointment as lieutenant had not been confirmed by the Senate of the United States. Almost any man would have resigned the dispatches at once, and refused to carry them further, at this disgraceful treatment, and many, indeed, advised Carson to return. But it availed nothing. He knew he had been appointed to this duty as the one most-competent to execute it, and he declared he would attempt to perform it, if it cost him his life. It is certain that he felt this disappointment keenly ; but, if his country was unjust to him, he could see no reason why he should be unjust to her. He reduced his escort to ten, and, in order to avoid the Comanches—who, it seems, were more aggressive than ever—he took an entirely new route, making a trail of his own to accomplish it. By doing this, he avoided the war-ground of this warlike people, and, in good time, TROUBLE WITH THE APACHES. 79 reached Fort Leavenworth, his men and animals being in good condition. From there he hastened to Washington alone, delivered his dispatches, “ turned right about,” and arrived at Taos in the autumn of 1848. CHAPTER XLV. EXPEDITION AGAINST THE APACHE INDIANS—-ATTEMPT TO RESCUE MRS. WHITE—VISITS FORT LARAMIE WITH A LOT OF MULES AND HORSES—~ AMUSING OCCURRENCE—SAVES TWO SANTA FE TRADERS FROM BEING MURDERED—VISITS THE STATES, CARSON was now passing the meridian of life. So near the age of forty, he felt a natural desire to adopt some mode of life by which he could remain more with his family. His, indeed, had been a varied experience thus far.