to Winty River, where they came upon a party of twenty hunters, who
were engaged in trading and trapping as opportunity offered. They
affiliated at once, for there is something in the presence of a
common danger which draws men closely together.

The weather became very cold and snow began to fall. It was decided,
therefore, to go into winter quarters near the mouth of Winty River.
There they erected skin lodges, such as are used by many tribes of
American Indians, and were content to wait the coming of spring.

The skill and address of Carson seemed to create a call for his
services, no matter where he happened to be, and it was not long
before he became involved in a most remarkable adventure.

Among the employees of the other party, was a shrewd civilized
Indian, who was held in high regard by the whites on account of
his native keenness, and who stood well in the confidence of his
employer; but one day he disappeared, simultaneously with several
of the very best horses. The circumstances were such that there
could be no doubt the two occurrences were inseparably connected.

The loss was too serious to be borne, and the angered leader of
the other company (though he had not the least claim upon young
Carson), appealed to him to help him to recover his property. Carson
said he was perfectly willing, provided Captain Lee would give his
consent, and as the Captain was more willing to help his friend,
he directed Carson to do as he saw fit.

The matchless hunter made sure his weapons were in the best order,
and, mounting one of the fleetest horses in camp, he waved a merry