The Life and Adventures of Kit Carson, the Nestor of the Rocky Mountains, from Facts Narrated by Himself Part 17

Carleton and his men became flushed with the prospects of success on finding the main trail, and they lost no time in following it up. For six days they made rapid progress, and at the end of that time espied the Indians encamped on "Fisher's Peak" in the Raton Mountains.

Although the mountain was none the easiest to climb, yet the soldiers went at its performance with a determination that brought them upon the Indians before they could collect their animals and be off, and the consequence was, that many a brave warrior then and there drew his last breath. However, the most of the Indians ran away, but were pursued and a few were overtaken and shot.

The mountain on which the Apaches were concealed, as described in this adventure with them, is devoid of trees, and hence, is what, in western language is known as a "bald mountain." Its summit contained a dry basin; which, besides the open lookout that the eminence commanded, formed another inducement to these Indians in selecting it for a hiding-place. The route from New Mexico to the United States, which we have before spoken of as the Bent's Fort road, runs through, or rather, close to, the Raton Mountains. On account of its being well timbered, and offering somewhat of a protection, this route is often chosen late in the autumn and early in the spring, as the safest for caravans to travel. As a hunting district it cannot be surpa.s.sed, especially in the seasons of the year above mentioned, as the game collects there for shelter from cold and storms.

At night, a squad of men under command of Lieutenant R. Johnston, of the First Regiment of United States Dragoons, secreted themselves in the camp lately occupied by the Indians, in the expectancy that some of them would return to reconnoitre and see what had been done there.

Along with this detachment, there was a man belonging to the spy company who could counterfeit the call used by these Indians when they wish to find each other and collect their forces. At about midnight, when all was still, this peculiar-toned whistle was sounded, when lo and behold! two warriors and two squaws came forth and commenced groping about in the darkness. They were fired upon, but as no accurate aim could be taken, only one of the men was mortally wounded.

There is no reason to doubt that there were more of these Indians concealed in the neighborhood, but the report of the rifles and the yells of their exposed brothers, caused them to cling to their hiding-places; and, as the shades of night advanced, they thought it was best to be on the move to distant parts. Hence, they escaped. The Apaches, in this affray, parted with forty head of horses and also their scanty allowance of camp equipage; for, by prosecuting the war, they were fast becoming poverty stricken; but, to do them as much harm as possible, all the articles that could be of any service to them were collected and destroyed.

A spectator, not used to seeing Indians in all phases, on beholding these Apaches in their most nouris.h.i.+ng condition, would at once decide they had but little else to lose than their bodies, for they usually have but a small quant.i.ty of clothing on them; but this is but an instance where human eyes can be easily deluded. As long as he has his rifle with plenty of ammunition, or even when he is reduced to his bow and arrows, the Apache still considers that he is amply provided to carry on war. Least of all the Indians in the far West does this race prepare for the future. When deprived of his horse, which he is ready, at a moment's warning, to convert into food by killing, his spirits are as buoyant as if he was mounted on the fleetest charger. He is equally careless about partaking of his last morsel of nourishment, although his rashness may drive him, and often does, to the alternative of subsisting on roots and bark, or such other articles as may fall in his way.

On the morning of the day that the Apache village was discovered and captured, Kit Carson rode up to his superior officer and said, "Major, if no accident shall happen to prevent us, we are certain to overtake the Indians by two o'clock this afternoon. The signs are becoming so fresh that I feel confident that I will not be mistaken." Carleton replied that if his words came true, he would present him with the finest hat that could be purchased in the United States. Strange as it may appear, the Indians were found at the hour which the guide had predicted. Sometime afterward, as it required quite a length of time to write and have the commission executed, Kit Carson was presented with a superb hat, in which there was a very appropriate inscription--viz.

+----------------+ AT 2 O'CLOCK. KIT CARSON, FROM MAJOR CARLETON. +----------------+

This prophecy was not guesswork. On the contrary, it was a matter of calculation, made on the same principle which any experienced workman would adopt, in reference to some undertaking that was within the range of his calling. A few years later, an officer, who had been an eye-witness of this incident, had the opportunity of trying Kit Carson a second time on the same business, but Kit was not mistaken. The Indians were overtaken within five minutes from the time he had foretold they would be.

Major Carleton, having performed all that lay in his power, commenced his homeward-bound march. While _en route_ he traveled by the head waters of the Canadian River and its tributaries, and pa.s.sed over bold and lofty mountains, and through a picturesque country. Finally he reached Taos. His command was in a very good condition, considering the hards.h.i.+ps to which it had been exposed.

Although we say, in common parlance, that this command returned in good condition, yet it must not be presumed by this a.s.sertion that they came back making a fine appearance, like that presented by soldiers on a parade. When out on these campaigns, the comfort of the men is considered to be of more importance than either pomp or show; hence, those military trappings which are not particularly essential, are left behind, while there is just enough uniformity of dress remaining, to make them recognizable as soldiers. But little luggage can be transported on these trips, hence, the soldiers are obliged to limit their wants to actual necessity, which seldom amounts to more than the clothes they have on. When about starting out, the soldiers bear the appearance of being ready for hard work; which, after finis.h.i.+ng, they are glad to return, even if they present themselves at their quarters in rags. It is wonderful what a change in personal appearance a few weeks can make by traveling in the mountains. The person thus exposed partially conforms to the habits of the wild Indians, both in appearance and mode of life. Such toilet articles as mirrors and razors, with their paraphernalia, are dispensed with, personal beauty being a thing the most to be despised. In lieu thereof, robust health shows itself in the cheek, the eye, and the whole economy of the man. The blood courses through his veins as pure as the water in the mountain streams about him. By this training, the mind becomes clear and well balanced, and the whole system reaches a condition which far surpa.s.ses the finest constructed machinery. This happy state of the body does not, however, communicate itself to the fantastical appearance of the soldiers as they come marching along.

Were they to enter a town belonging to a civilized community, when arrayed in this mountain costume, they would be at once judged as a band of desperadoes.

On arriving at his home, Kit Carson resumed the duties of his office as Indian Agent, which occupied his time during the remainder of the year. Soon after, another expedition was organized and sent out against the Apaches, but it returned unsuccessful.

We have used this word "organizing," when speaking of the fitting out of various expeditions against the Indians, and it seems proper that here we should give the reader an idea of what kind of preparation is necessary to put one of these commands in proper trim. The company, or companies, of soldiers will be first detailed for the arduous duties of the field to castigate the Indians. This matter is easy to accomplish; but the next thing to be thought of is to take care of these troops, which is not quite so puerile a task. The quartermaster estimates from the number of the soldiers how many mules will be required to transport their luggage, equipments and provisions. This having been determined upon, he collects the animals and has them provided with pack-saddles. The task of shoeing the horses and mules is also no easy matter, for they cannot go until after they have been properly shod. A certain weight of freight is a.s.signed to each pack mule, and a suitable number of men are employed to take care of, load and unload these animals when in camp. When on the march, these men perform duty as drivers, and otherwise look after their charge.

Notwithstanding their proverbial obstinacy, these pack mules quickly learn the labor which they have to perform. After finis.h.i.+ng their usual day's work, they often exhibit impatience to be relieved of their burdens. In the morning they are correspondingly reluctant about being loaded, and by their hostile demonstrations, they plainly show their unwillingness to engage in further labor. Especially is this true, when, by careless management, their backs have become injured; or when, from the steadiness of pressure from the "_dead_ weight" of their cargoes, the same result has been brought about. The Mexicans understand the art of packing animals to perfection, hence they are preferred before other men to serve in this capacity. It is often a laughable scene to witness a mule who is used to the business, having his load strapped on and otherwise arranged in proper place. The packer, with the las.h.i.+ng rope in hand, and with his foot braced against the side of the animal, by the a.s.sistance of a kind of pulley arrangement in the saddle gearing, uses his utmost endeavors to make things as firm as possible. Every effort which he thus put forth, is strenuously and obstinately resisted by a trick which we will call a straining process that is resorted to by the mule. The animal seems to know when his pack is securely and properly adjusted; for, if it is not, he is ready to dump it on the first opportunity occurring. When the mules are loaded, they start out in a drove, but are allowed to select their own path, provided they follow on after the command.

It generally happens that one of them is more ambitious than his companions. This one taking the lead, the others resign to him their right to the place, and are content to keep his company at a respectful distance in the rear. One of the duties of the Commissary Department in fitting out such expeditions is, to provide a sufficient quant.i.ty of rations for the men, such as beef, bacon, beans, sugar and coffee. These form the reliable subsistence of the soldiers while absent from their posts or the settlements. The estimate is judged of by the number of days which the expedition will require to be absent, in order to perform a certain amount of work. From this result is calculated the weight and number of the rations required, always, when practicable, allowing a small surplus. In this respect old and experienced soldiers are far superior to volunteers. The former will allow of no waste. They are accustomed to be methodic in their modes of life, while the volunteer is usually ignorant of such teaching; hence, he is wanting in making little things go a great way. While out on one of these campaigns, it is often practicable to a certain extent, provided the undertaking is not a hotly contested chase, to drive along beef cattle, which can be killed and used at discretion.

Bacon, however, is the soldier's sheet anchor; and, the variety of forms in which he can cook and prepare for eating this article, while in the field, would astonish even a French _chef de cuisine_. It very frequently happens, however, that in an Indian country, he is not allowed to exercise his talent, for, making large fires might have the effect of apprising the enemy of the near approach of danger. In such a case he is obliged to make his coffee in a tin cup, over a very small fire, the fuel of which consists of a handful of dry twigs, which are carefully and cautiously replenished as the first supply is consumed. This coffee, together with the remains of his last frugal meal, serves to stay his appet.i.te for the time being, _nolens volens_.

The organization is said to be complete and fit for service when the soldiers are judiciously provided with arms, ammunition, and riding horses. When the party consists of mounted men, they also are provided with such other articles as are deemed necessary, which are included, usually, under the heading of an outfit for the especial business in which the soldier is to engage.

In the latter part of the summer, Kit Carson departed from the agency, on a visit to the band of Utahs, one of the tribes who were placed under his special charge. Although, usually, he went to their country several times in a year, yet, more frequently, these Indians came to him in order that they might enjoy the hospitality of his house, and receive from him presents of tobacco and other little commodities which he was always sure to give them--articles which he generally had to pay for himself. In visiting them at their home on this particular occasion, Kit Carson had the double object in view of notifying them of the _moon_ when they must meet the superintendent of the Indian affairs of the territory at Abiquiu, a town adjacent to their hunting-grounds, and one which they often frequented, and also, to inform himself of the schemes which they had on foot and their actual wants, so that he could report to the proper authorities the necessary articles of which they stood most in need. To define the actual wants and requirements of Indians, is a subject which has puzzled many a person who has endeavored thoroughly to investigate their character, and who has understood their mode of life. If the question was left to themselves, it would be readily settled; for, they desire to possess everything which in the least pleases their active fancy; and, so extensive are their demands in this respect, that they know no limit, provided their own inclinations are consulted. By some, it is supposed that the presents of blankets and trinkets which they annually receive from government, are more than sufficient rewards for depriving them of parts of their country. Others there are who charitably add to these things, presents of weapons and ammunition, arguing that thus they can kill their game, and gain their own subsistence without resorting to plunder; but alas! this latter argument is not found, in the majority of instances, to be the peaceful manner in which they employ these gifts. Very often the weapons which they have but recently received, are turned upon their donors with a view of destroying them. The reasoning of the Indian in regard to these presents is perhaps right and just, yet it is by no means pleasing to the exposed frontiersman. The Indian argues that these gifts are but rights which he is forced to receive in lieu of his hunting grounds, with which he is very loath to part, no matter what be the terms or consideration offered. The inference which he draws is, that he can use these presents as he pleases. Money, in the hands of wild Indians, is almost worthless to them, and paying it for their lands by way of annuity, is extreme folly. Some of them in time, as they have become half civilized, begin to appreciate the value of money. Such only, should be allowed to receive or accept it. They sometimes desire it by way of ornament. Then by the usual means of exchanging property, they know how, easily, to obtain it. Every tribe has its own peculiarities in respect to its wants, and the best judge of these is the agent, who should be first chosen for his honor, integrity and skill, and then allowed a large discretion in his decisions.

The distance to be traveled over while on this duty was in the vicinity of two hundred and fifty miles, and was performed, like all of Kit's previous journeys, on horseback. Indeed, there are but few men living or dead, who have ridden in the saddle over as much territory as the man we write of. On his way to the Utah village, Kit accidentally fell in with the Apaches; but as he was constantly on the look out, and therefore first in making the discovery, he lost no time in effecting his escape from them, by changing his course. He thus was able to pa.s.s around them in perfect safety. Kit Carson met with no difficulty in finding the Utahs, among whom he spent two days investigating their affairs. Just before parting with them, he left directions for them to be at the council at the time appointed, which was in the _new moon_ of October. Notwithstanding his path was beset with the same perils that existed on his outward journey, yet by careful traveling he surmounted them all, and arrived at his home safe and sound. Little or nothing worth noting transpired until the time arrived for him to set out for Abiquiu, where all parties soon a.s.sembled in grand council and proceeded to business. Speeches were made by the superintendent, by Kit Carson, and also by the head chiefs. After these interesting proceedings were gone through with, the annuities, to which the band were ent.i.tled according to their treaty, were presented to them, which they received with outward signs of friends.h.i.+p, though the knowing ones who were on the ground could see, lurking beneath that stoic appearance which a savage usually a.s.sumes when facing his white brother, that the red men were not entirely satisfied with past events. However, every means had been employed to pacify the band, who, on first coming into the council, had succeeded in showing that they had been greatly outraged and injured, and that they had sufficient cause for resentment. The following circ.u.mstances will show the truth of this.

Just previous to the holding of this council, one of the warriors who was much esteemed by his tribe, had been waylaid and murdered by a small party of Mexicans. The only excuse offered by the latter for committing this b.l.o.o.d.y deed was, that they wished to deprive the warrior of an old coat, which, by some means, had come into his possession.

The killing of a human being to deprive him of a garment which was almost worthless, is perfectly characteristic of the depravity exhibited by the lower cla.s.ses of Mexicans. It is a singular fact that these people love to steal trifling articles, or, sums of money. We remember two instances where this trait is singularly ill.u.s.trated. An American, on one occasion, left on a table, in his log house, a large sum of money in gold. He sent a Mexican into this room to bring him something which he wanted, but the man returned saying he could not find it. The American now went himself to look for the article, and, while in the house, recounted his money and found one of the smallest coins missing. He at once called the thief and charged him with the crime. The Mexican knew this American to be very resolute; when, therefore, he heard him threaten him with severe and summary punishment if he did not, at once, produce the money, he knew there was no escape, and accordingly drew from its hiding-place, on his person, the missing coin and restored it to its owner. The American, being used to such every-day occurrences, pa.s.sed by the affair without further notice. In the other instance an American was traveling and had occasion to stop at a Mexican's house during the night. On going to pay his bill for his lodging in the morning, he noticed that two pieces of his money had been abstracted while he was sleeping. These coins had been taken one from either end of his purse. This was what drew his attention to the fact of his having been robbed. The host was informed of what had happened and at once proceeded to restore the missing money. He called his son to him, a boy twenty years of age, and after threatening a good deal, he made the lad take his choice between owning the theft or submitting to the risk of being discovered by a search of his person for the missing coins. This had the desired effect, and at once the stolen property was returned to its rightful owner.

Both of these facts are simple, and perhaps, uninteresting; but they serve to exhibit a characteristic of the lower cla.s.ses of Mexicans.

Doubtless, such paltry thieving is the result of a want of animal courage, easily discernible by the close observer of the Mexican race.

Of course there are many exceptions to this statement.

The white men interested in the council had their hands full in their endeavors to smooth over this affair, for the Indians were much dissatisfied with such treatment. At first they demanded that reparation should be made them by their agents giving them a certain number of horses. The Superintendent explained to them that he had not the power to do this, but he a.s.sured them that the murderers should be arrested and dealt with according to law. The Indians willingly received this promise, but seemed to feel, as finally was the fact, that they were doomed to be disappointed as far as the punishment was concerned. It afterwards happened that only one of the murderers was apprehended, and in a very short time after he was locked up as a prisoner, he succeeded in making his escape and was never retaken.

This was all that was ever done by those in authority to render the justice that had been agreed upon and which was richly due to the Indians. After quitting the council, and while on their way back to their hunting-ground, the small pox broke out among the red men, and carried off, in its ravages, the leading men of this band of Muache Utahs. On the first appearance of this trouble, the Indians held a council among themselves, and decided that the Superintendent was the cause of the pestilence that had visited them. They, also, decided that he had collected them together in order thus to injure them, and to further his designs he had presented, to each of their distinguished warriors, a blanket-coat. They found that nearly every Indian who had accepted and worn this article, had died.

It so happened that the writer, several years after these events occurred, visited the camp where this pestilence reigned in its full vigor. The site of this camp was very beautiful. Perhaps it was this, aided by other circ.u.mstances, which caused the red men to select it as a refuge for their sick. The place is located on the west side of the Valley of San Luis, and is about midway between its upper and lower extremes. Two mountain streams have so joined as to form a peninsula of tableland which is well shaded by cotton-wood trees. This ground, when the writer saw it, was literally strewn with the bleached bones of the Indian victims who had died from the scourge. As we lifted up one skull and another, the thought struck us that, perhaps, we might have touched the bones which once belonged to the famous chief, Chico Velasques, of whom we have before spoken, as it was here that he died.

Had we done so knowingly, on account of that man's many cruel deeds, a thrill of horror must have run through our veins. The funeral rites of the dead among the Indians were clearly exemplified here.

Whatever may be these rites observed among the Indians on the west side of the Rocky Mountains, I am satisfied that most of the tribes of Indians on the east side of this same range, use but few, if any, imposing ceremonies in committing the body to the dust. It is very difficult to find the bones of an Indian on the plains, and therefore I believe, and herein I am a.s.sisted by the observations of experienced men, that these Indians burn their dead bodies when they can do so, or completely hide them in the mountains by covering them with rocks, so that it is impossible to find them. Such a course would also serve the purpose of preventing the wolves from digging them up. The high-colored novels, referred to heretofore, which have, during the past few years, had for their theme the Indian race, love to dwell on the imposing and affecting spectacle of an Indian burial. When stripped of fancy, the truth is, that beyond the lamenting of a few hysterical squaws and the crackling of the flames of the funeral pile, there is little else done that is noticeable.

But to return to results of the council. The Indians naturally enough, argued and persuaded themselves that these presents were intended as poisonous destroyers, and that they had been steeped in contagion for that end. It wanted but the happening of this affair, or a similar one, to destroy the small amount of confidence which the superintendent had hitherto enjoyed with these savages. While they were secretly preparing for war, they anxiously inquired of the traders who came among them, what was transpiring in regard to the Mexican prisoners who had wantonly murdered their brave. On each separate occasion they were answered with intelligence that did not in the least satisfy them. They, therefore, renewed their energies in order soon to be ready to take the redress in their own hands.

Kit Carson apprehended difficulty, even at the council; but, after it broke up, he was early apprised of the trouble which was brewing; and, to prevent any outbreak, he brought all his Indian experience to bear upon the task. In him they said that they knew they had a true friend; but, their nation had received too many wrongs to allow any more to be thrust upon them without showing to the world that they were worthy of the names which their fathers had given to them.

CHAPTER XVII.

The Commencement of a formidable Indian War--High-handed Measures on the Part of the Indians--The Governor of New Mexico raises five hundred Mexican Volunteers and places them under the Command of Colonel St. Vrain--Colonel Fauntleroy placed in Command of all the Forces--Kit Carson is chosen as Chief Guide--The Campaign commenced--The Trail found--The Indians are met and the first Fight and its Consequences--An Excitement in Camp--The Indians again overtaken--The return to Fort Ma.s.sachusetts--Intense Cold Weather experienced--The Second Campaign--Colonel Fauntleroy surprises the Main Camp of the Enemy--The War and Scalp Dance broken up--Terrible Slaughter of the Indians--The Great Amount of Plunder taken and destroyed--Another small Party of Indians surprised and routed--St. Vrain equally fortunate in his Campaign--The Indians sue for Peace--The Council held and Treaties signed--Kit Carson opposes the making of them--The poor Protection Indian Treaties usually afford to Settlers--Kit Carson's House at Taos and his Indian Friends--His Attachment for his Family put to the test--Cowardice of a Mexican--Kit Carson's Friends as they look upon him--His influence over Indians--General remarks--Conclusion.

The Muache band of Utahs, under their renowned Chief Blanco, after trading for all the powder and lead which they required, joined the Apaches and commenced the war in earnest. They waylaid and murdered travelers on the roads, attacked towns, killed and made prisoners the people who inhabited them, and became so formidable that for a length of time everything was at their mercy. They lost no opportunity in showing their power and in possessing themselves of the finest herds of horses, mules, cattle and sheep within their reach.

This Chief Blanco is a man who stands in his moccasins about five feet nine inches. He is rather thickset but, to use an Indian phrase, he is straight as an arrow. The chief attraction about this Indian is his head, which is finely developed. His l.u.s.trous black eye is filled with animation and shows an active brain, which, unfortunately, is turned to bad account. His forehead is lofty, yet it is symmetrically chiselled, and every feature about his face is as regular as if it had been carved for sculptured perfection. Blanco is a man who, in any sphere of life, would have become most certainly distinguished; and, under the influence of education, he might have risen even to greatness. In his present unreclaimed state, he shows to a disadvantage.

It is within my province fully to attest to the earnestness, the savageness and the brutality with which these Indians commenced this contest. I was then stationed in their country and came very near being one of their first victims. The circ.u.mstances of this narrow escape happened as follows. For a considerable length of time the post to which I was then attached, was kept in a constant state of excitement by receiving authentic accounts, daily, of murders and robberies committed by the Indians. While these events were transpiring, the officers and soldiers were anxious to take the field in order that they might punish the perpetrators of the crimes; but, as the force of the Indians was, numerically speaking, very strong, therefore it required, in order to insure success, a well organized command to match them and checkmate their plans at once. It required time and much labor for the officers in charge of the military district to arrange and complete their plans. Every man who left our post ran the risk of losing his life; for, the enemy kept an eye on the road which led away from it to the princ.i.p.al towns of New Mexico, as often there was rich booty, for them to obtain, pa.s.sing over it.

Notwithstanding this critical state of affairs, express duty had to be performed, and it required brave men for the task. There were present, however, those who stood ready to volunteer to execute all express orders. Before proceeding with our own case, we will ill.u.s.trate these critical times. It was necessary to dispatch an expressman to Fort Union. This post, from Fort Ma.s.sachusetts, was one hundred and fifty miles distant. The ever faithful Mexican, Armador Sanchez, was then attached to Fort Ma.s.sachusetts as a hunter and interpreter. On account of extensive experience with the habits and customs of the hostile Indians, Armador was selected to perform this dangerous mission. In his usually quiet manner, this n.o.ble hunter soon prepared himself for the undertaking. By using every precaution, he reached his point of destination in safety. Having finished up his business, he instantly began his homeward-bound journey. While on the rough trail which leads from Fort Union to Taos, he came near being surprised and captured by the enemy, under the following circ.u.mstances. Armador had selected the night as the safest time to travel; and, as it was quite dark, in order to pick out his way and prevent his growing sleepy by riding, he traveled on foot and led his animal. He had made good progress on his journey when suddenly his hunter-trained ear detected a noise on ahead of him which sounded like the rolling of stones down the side of the hills, over which the trail ran. He stopped and listened more attentively. This time he was certain that he was not deceived, and thought that he could hear voices singing Indian war songs. This was convincing proof to him that danger was near at hand; therefore he turned off from the trail and led his animal as high up the steep hill as he could, where, fortunately, he found sufficient under-brush, aided by the darkness of the night, to conceal himself from view.

Hardly had he taken up this position when the noises suddenly became very distinct. The Indians, while following the trail, had made a turn round a bluff and were almost beneath him. Now the hunter felt his situation to be most precarious, for, should his mule bray, as these animals are apt to do when others are approaching, his own life would have to pay the forfeit; but, to prevent this, Armador held the mule's nostrils firmly with his hands and otherwise drew off the animal's attention by various gentle manipulations bestowed upon him. He saw the outlines of the Indians as they pa.s.sed along in single file beneath him and estimated them to be at least twenty strong. Had these savages known that a victim was so close by, they would have made short work of him; but, before they could have killed him, it is safe to affirm that Armador Sanchez would have had a companion with whom to draw in his last breath. Fortunately affairs took a better turn and the expressman finished his journey without further trouble.

To return to my own case--I was obliged to visit Taos. As an escort, I was allowed one faithful and brave soldier. We traveled together over the first half of our journey, and as we had considered, far the most dangerous part, in perfect safety. At the Mexican town of Costillo, after our day's ride, we rested for the night. Our fears of meeting Indians were now almost dispelled; but still, we took the precaution to question the Mexicans of the town in regard to their knowledge of their whereabouts. In reply we were invariably answered that no fresh signs had been discovered and that intercourse was both safe and free for the remainder of our route. By the first appearance of daylight on the following morning we were up and preparing for our journey, and but a little time elapsed before we were leisurely traveling along on the main road. We had left the town but a few miles behind us when the morning sun began to make its appearance in all his splendor. The country through which we were journeying was prairie land, and was bounded on either side by lofty and picturesque mountains, and the distance of the one range from the other was considerable, but yet could fully be taken in by the eye almost at a single view. As we rode along, we were amusing ourselves admiring the beauty of the morning, and especially directed our attention to the rising of the sun. All at once, just as we had reached a high plateau of land, the soldier made the discovery of a flock of sheep at a great distance off on the prairie. They appeared to be moving under rather suspicious circ.u.mstances. We reined up our horses, for the purpose of obtaining a better observation. What puzzled us, was the dim figures of, apparently, mounted men, who were moving at great speed from one point of the band of sheep to another, as if hurrying them along. After taking a searching look, we came to the conclusion that the hors.e.m.e.n which we saw were hostile Indians, as we had not been accustomed to see Mexican herders mounted and acting so strangely.

The herders, near the towns in New Mexico, are usually small boys, who are under the surveillance of one or two men stationed near by. When the Apaches and Utahs steal these herds they always take the young herders along in order to look after the property in their mountain retreats. They rarely mortally injure these boys, for they say that it is against their own interest to do so; but instead, they prefer to save their lives, so that they may be useful in guarding other flocks which, perchance, may fall into their hands. Most of these youthful prisoners in time make their escape; and, after a series of hards.h.i.+ps, return safe to their homes. Many Mexicans can give such adventures of their early experience, but scarcely one of them can recall a single kind act shown them by their captors save the mere sparing of their lives.

As we were viewing the herd, we thought that we noticed the figures of the hors.e.m.e.n throwing themselves from one side to the other of their horses, as if very busily employed in frightening the sheep. We now held a council, and decided that our best policy was to quit the main road, as it was crooked, and make a straight march across the prairies for the town of Red River, which was located about twenty miles in our advance. It was our opinion, which afterwards proved to be correct, that, if the Indians were stealing the stock belonging to the town of Costillo, they were also engaged in attacking the place itself. For, while a strong party were engaged in drawing off the attention of the people, another would be driving off the cattle, sheep, etc. To return, therefore, would be almost certain death; so, at a full gallop we commenced our direct course. As the sage bushes were thick and high and the ground much broken by various kind of holes, we soon found that we had our hands full in managing our horses. We had hardly started afresh before our eyes were attracted to one side of us; and in the direction of the Rio del Norte, which runs through the valley, saw, what we at first considered to be, antelope; but which, afterwards, proved to be Indians in pursuit of us. As we watched closely these supposed antelope; we remarked that they kept in Indian file, and that the course they were on would diagonally intercept our own point of the compa.s.s. We began now to suspect that the white appearance a.s.sumed by these objects was owing to the strong sunlight which dazzled our eyesight, and struck on the dressed side of buffalo robes, and that in these robes were concealed human beings who had formed the determination to have our scalps.

During the cold weather, most of the Indians who dwell in the country adjacent to the Rocky Mountains, and especially those living on the eastern side of them, wear buffalo robes with the fur next to their bodies. These robes serve the double purpose of s.h.i.+rts or coats, and a covering by night. The wearers make them fast around the waist, and, in the heat of the day, they are allowed to fold over and hang down; but, as the cool air of the evening comes on, they are wrapped around the head and body, something after the Spanish fas.h.i.+on of wearing a cloak. The Indians, frequently, for the purpose of decoying their enemies into battle, go out on the prairies, and by turning the fur side of these robes out, and covering their persons, having previously a.s.sumed a half bent position, imitate the Simon Pure buffalo while in the act of grazing. In order to keep up the ruse, they move about with a rocking motion. When taken for the buffalo, which frequently happens, they are enabled to gain an advantage in approaching a party or village which they wish to attack. The Cheyenne Indians are very partial to loose sack-coats which are made out of white blankets. To these coats a hood is attached, which is thrown over the head at the wearer's pleasure. In addition to this, during the winter season, they also resort to the buffalo robe. The squaws of the various tribes of Indians on the plains are well versed in the art of tanning and dressing buffalo hides. They frequently ornament them with beads, porcupine quills and rude paintings. In times long since gone by, these robes could be purchased, or rather traded for, at good bargains; but, the unlimited and increasing demand for them has greatly enhanced their value. Now days they bring standard prices.

Being satisfied that the Indians were in pursuit of us, we carefully guided our horses, at the same time using our spurs freely and keeping them at their maximum speed. As the Indians drew nearer, we could see distinctly that they were urging on their animals. Our safety, therefore, depended entirely on outriding them. The race became most exciting, and demanded the greatest caution, for we well knew, that one misstep made by either of our horses, would prove fatal to the rider. We had decided, on commencing the race, that neither of us should fire a shot except as a last resort, and that we should do it only on the principle of man for man. While putting our horses to their speed, our weapons were held in our hands and kept ready for instant service. The most dangerous point was that at which the two trails would inevitably intersect. To gain this place in advance of our savage enemies, all our hopes now centered. For twelve miles we dashed along, laboring under a state of suspense not to be easily forgotten. When, at last, we arrived at the desired point, we were only about two hundred yards in the advance of our savage pursuers; still, we felt that our lives, for the time being, were saved, and accordingly breathed a prayer to the Almighty in thanks for our deliverance thus far. The pace now became tremendous; and here our grain-fed horses proved to be too much (and their powers of endurance were fully put to the test), for the gra.s.s-fed ponies of the Indians.

After a short run, the savages saw that the advantage belonged to us, consequently soon after they halted. We, however, kept steadily, but with slackened speed, on our course, fearing that some accident might change the happy turn of affairs in their favor. On finding themselves thwarted in their designs, the Indians fired two or three shots at us, but even these final compliments did not, to use nautical phraseology, make us "heave to." We reached the settlement of the Red River in good season, and concluded that we had traveled the distance in about as brief a s.p.a.ce of time as it ever had been accomplished either before or since our adventure. Our horses were so used up by this race that we were obliged to exchange them for fresh ones, on which we finished our journey without further annoyance. The Indians, in this incursion stole five thousand sheep, besides other property from the Costillo, and killed two men who were traveling behind us and on the same road. When the bodies of these men were discovered, one of them had a mouthful of bullets, which he had evidently put there in order that he might drop them into his rifle as he should require them, and not be obliged to be delayed in taking them from his ammunition pouch; but, evidently, before he could have used more than one from this supply, he was shot dead.

It cannot be denied but that this outbreak on the part of the Indians, and its subsequent outrages, was the result of mismanagement; and, it is but justice to the reputation of Kit Carson to a.s.sert, that it was no fault of his that affairs had terminated so disastrously. He had used every means which human skill could devise to allay the anger of the Indians. Had his superiors in power acted with the same discretion and judgment, in all probability the Utahs might have been kept at peace. It is wonderfully strange that our Government will persist in placing at the head of Indian affairs men who are not practically acquainted with Indian habits, which can only be learned by a long life pa.s.sed upon the frontiers. If it was a matter where dollars and cents alone were to be estimated, it might be different; but where valuable lives are legitimately exposed, it seems to us morally wrong to give the control of tribes of wild men to politicians, who are liable to make all kinds of mistakes, and in whom the Indians will not repose the least confidence. It is because such appointments are made that, in a great measure, the troubles with these border Indians arise; and many is the section of country in western America, where apparently the reward for taking a white man's scalp is a blazing red or a sky blue blanket, which is paid under the plea of keeping the peace. This, too, when efficient means and decided measures are the only hopes of a lasting peace.

[Ill.u.s.tration: FORT Ma.s.sACHUSETTS, NEW MEXICO, IN 1855.]

While engaged in our travels through the far West, we remember to have met with an Indian agent who was, both in years and experience, but a mere boy. To him had been intrusted the affairs of a large tribe, notorious in the country where they reside, as being great thieves.

These Indians had so little respect for their agent, that they would openly boast of the crimes which they had committed, in his very presence. Not only this, but, on horses stolen from the neighboring settlers, they would ride by him, thus defying his power. The settlers were loud in their complaints against the Government for thus neglecting to protect them, and sending them a block of wood for a king. The young man of whom we speak, bore an exemplary character, but it was plainly and painfully apparent, that he was, in no way whatever, fitted for the office he held, and which he had attained through the influence of powerful political friends. This is but a fair example by which many of the so-called Indian agents may be rated, who are the actual managers of Indian affairs on our frontiers.

The Utahs and the Apaches, having now openly combined, met with such success in their endeavors to attack the whites, that, during the course of a few months, they overran almost the entire northern part of the territory of New Mexico. They utterly defied the power of the American Government; and, whenever the opportunity offered, boasted to the Mexicans "that they no longer stood in fear of the white man."

The subsequent cruel and barbarous crimes of which they were guilty, clearly demonstrated that they had become greatly elated by their success. It soon became apparent that, unless checked, they would exterminate the population and burn or otherwise destroy their settlements.

At this time, it was only by running great risk, that the whites could leave their towns and go to the neighboring mountains, for the purpose of obtaining even a little firewood. Working parties were daily surprised and murdered; women and children were carried into bondage, and reserved for a worse fate, and all kinds of business were receiving a check, which was becoming ruinous to the country. It was even greatly feared, that the boldness of the savages would carry them so far as to make them attack Fort Ma.s.sachusetts. To give them a warm reception, should they dare undertake that enterprise, the post was strengthened, by cutting down and removing everything which might, in the least, tend to aid the Indians, and give them a cover which they so much like when fighting; all the trees and brush about the post were cut away. Breastworks were thrown up on the block-house attached to the fort, so that the soldiers could be well protected in case of emergency. In these, sentinels were posted, and the strength of the guard doubled and greater vigilance exacted. Haystacks were removed to a safe place, for fear they would be fired by the enemy. The sentinels were ordered to cry out every half hour of the night while on their posts, and no man was allowed to approach after the shades of night came on, without giving the countersign. It proved to be well that these precautions were taken; for, on the neighboring mountains, Indian watch-fires were seen nightly; and, on several mornings, Indian moccasin tracks were discovered in close proximity to the fort, showing thereby that the enemy was watching and waiting for a favorable opportunity to strike a sudden and overwhelming blow upon the garrison within. The savages, no doubt, were deterred from making a bold attack by the prompt precautionary measures which had been taken by the commander to antic.i.p.ate their plans. The wagons belonging to the fort were sent out after wood under a strong escort, and the government herd of beef-cattle, horses and mules, were well protected by the soldiery. On one occasion, through a false alarm of Indians, the whole command of the post, which numbered less than one hundred men, was put in great and sudden commotion. The cause will appear in connection with the following circ.u.mstances. The party in charge of the herd had espied a large cavalcade of men and animals approaching them. At the long distance they were off, the strangers resembled Indians. The commander of the party, immediately sent an expressman to the fort to apprise its occupants of the fact. The drums immediately sounded the rally, which caused the men to rush for their arms. They quickly fell into their ranks, and the order was given to march.

Headed by a gallant lieutenant, they dashed out of the fort on a fast run, in order to reach and save their property from being captured by the enemy. The soldiers were elated at the prospect of having a brush with the Indians, and, on an open plain, giving them battle, where, notwithstanding the great numbers which would certainly be arrayed against them, they felt that they could soundly chastise them. On reaching the herd, the soldiers scattered, and were soon prepared to commence the skirmish; but, lo! when the strangers drew near enough to be discernible, they were recognized as a large party of Mexicans, under the command of an American. These people had been absent several months on a trading voyage among the Cheyennes and Arrapahoes, and for the purpose of returning home in safety, they had formed themselves into one body. Their dress was similar to that of the Indians, and therefore at the great distance at which they were first discovered, it is not strange that such a mistake had been made, especially during these dangerous times. The reason of the sudden stationing of the soldiers about the herd, the traders easily surmised; hence, on drawing near, they began to cry out that they were friends. No set of men were ever more disappointed than were these soldiers at this unexpected termination of the affair.

Matters eventually arrived at such a crisis that the Governor of the Territory, by and with the advice of the commanding general, felt obliged to issue a proclamation calling upon the people to volunteer for the purpose of defending their lives and property.

The inhabitants of New Mexico promptly responded to this call, by flocking to the places designated for them to organize. Out of the great number who presented themselves and offered their services, there were selected men sufficient to fill six companies, each of which, when fully organized, contained eighty mounted men. They had the power of electing their own officers, by and with the advice and consent of the Governor. These volunteers furnished themselves with riding horses. The pay which they were to receive amounted to about thirty dollars per month, which was considered very liberal, inasmuch as they were provided, in most cases, with arms. Rations were issued out to them the same as to the regular army. The willingness which the Mexicans exhibited on this occasion to volunteer, does them great credit, and clearly proves the fact that they do not always lack in courage, but that they are prompt to defend their homes when properly disciplined and aided with the means necessary to do so.

It is the opinion of many of the most prominent citizens of the Territory of New Mexico, that, if the chastis.e.m.e.nt of the Indians, when it was required, was left to the people themselves, the general government only supplying them with money and arms, that peace between the two parties would, in a short time, be firmly established on a sure and permanent footing.

In giving currency to such opinions, we risk them, with the knowledge that the previous experiments made on this policy, which have proved unsuccessful in the various older territories belonging to the United States, will be brought to bear as potent arguments against such a course by a large and powerful opposition. But such facts of Indian history are exceptions. Indian history clearly demonstrates the proposition, that well-organized volunteers, under able leaders, have accomplished more in warfare against the savages than regular troops, taking into consideration that the same length of time, which each have been engaged in actual service, has given them equal experience.