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