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.