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