story, viz. that the Indians had come in and boldly stole all the animals belonging to the settlement—­At the time this depredation had been committed, there was a small detachment of United States troops stationed in the place, but the soldiers were too few in number to attempt a rescue of the property from the savages.  The latter had visited the little town with a strong force on this occasion; the settlers, therefore, made application to the commanding officer of the territory, who promptly dispatched Major Grier with a command of dragoons to hunt up the guilty parties and punish them.  This the major did and was so fortunate as to recover nearly all of the stolen stock which he had the satisfaction of returning to its owners.

Kit Carson remained through the following summer months at his ranche at Rayado, busying himself in efforts to improve his house and lands.

In his employment Kit Carson had several faithful Mexicans.  His task was to superintend their labors, which occupied only a part of his time.  When anything required it he lent a hand to assist them; but, these men had to be provided with provisions which, to purchase in those distant parts, would have entailed a great item of expense; indeed, more than equal to the profits arising from their labor.  Therefore, a certain amount of time had to be set apart for hunting, which kind of employment he truly enjoyed.  Mounted on a fine horse, with his faithful gun and dog, early each day, he would start out on the prairies to engage in the chase.  In a few hours he would return on foot, with his noble hunter loaded down with choice game.  Sometimes it would be antelope or elk; on another occasion, it would consist of black tailed deer, which are celebrated as being the largest and the finest species of venison that roam the forests of any country and are only to be found in the Rocky Mountains; on another, wild-turkeys; and then mountain grouse and prairie chickens helped to complete the load.  When thus provided for, it is no wonder that Kit’s workmen loved their employment and labored with good will.  While thus engaged Kit Carson’s weather eye was always open for Indian signs.  His horses, cattle and sheep which he had bought since the last depredation were watched with great vigilance, as no one could foretell what the next hour would bring forth.  In his mountain home Kit was often visited by Indian friends who came to smoke the pipe of peace with him and enjoy his hospitality.  When thus surrounded by rival hunters worthy of his steel, who had sprung up, like oaks of the forest, he felt truly happy.  This happiness was greatly enhanced and augmented by the thrifty appearance of everything that pertained to him.