[Illustration: KIT AND HIS FAVORITE HORSE "APACHE."]




TO

COL. CERAN ST. VRAIN,

OF NEW MEXICO.


DEAR SIR,

You were first among the brave mountaineers to discover and direct the
manly energy, extraordinary natural ability, and unyielding courage
which have attached to the subject of this volume; and, as among the
first Americans who put foot on the Rocky Mountains, you are perhaps
best acquainted with the history of the men, who, for fifty years,
have lived there. CHRISTOPHER CARSON, after a long life, now crowned
with successful and honorable achievements, still looks upon you,
sir, as his earliest patron, and places your name on the list of his
warmest friends. Through a life of unusual activity and duration,
which, reflecting honor and renown upon your name, has given you a
distinguished position among your countrymen, you have never been
known to forget a duty to your fellow man.

For these considerations, the dedication of this volume to you cannot
but appear appropriate. That he may continue to merit a place in your