Kit Carson’s thorough knowledge of Indian character and his established bravery and integrity ought, it appears to us, to have been a sufficient guaranty to this officer, that he was acting in good faith when he asked, through the proper channel, that protection to which he was certainly entitled while pursuing the necessary though hazardous business, connected with the commerce of the plains.

Never, throughout his eventful career, had Kit Carson refused to offer his services in the cause of a countryman who stood in need of them; and now, when the first time came that he felt it necessary to make the call for assistance, he could not understand why two valuable days were allowed to pass, by an officer who could have aided him, without some notice being taken of his urgent requisition.  It is true that by some, especially those who are not acquainted with the character of Kit Carson, he is regarded as being ever anxious for an Indian fight; but, had this been the case, he would have long since paid the forfeit with his life.  To contradict such a statement, we have but to appeal to the reader of this narrative, and ask him to bear testimony of the marked discretion that has so far coupled itself with Kit Carson’s fame.  An amusing incident which came under the eye of the writer is to the point.

In the early part of the so-called gold “fever” of California, when parties were organizing in the city of New York, to proceed overland to the Pacific, we chanced to be present at a meeting held by one of the companies.  As most of those present were entirely unacquainted with the country to be passed over, and as they were anxious to place themselves in a safe position, some one proposed that Kit Carson should be employed as a guide, provided his services could be had.  This was ruled out.  The amusing part of this incident consists in the reason which governed this judgment.  It was on account of the fear that he might lead them out of their way in order to engage in some bloody Indian fight, it being generally represented and believed that he was sanguinarily inclined.  Cheap literature had so ferociously made the man, that he, of all men most experienced, could not be trusted, showing thereby how little had been known of the real Kit Carson.

CHAPTER XV.

Kit Carson’s last Trapping Expedition—­He embarks in a Speculation—­His Trip to California with a large Flock of Sheep—­The Method employed by Mexicans in driving Herds and their Dexterity—­Kit Carson goes to San Francisco—­Its wonderful Growth—­Maxwell joins Kit Carson at Sacramento City—­The Lucky Speculation—­The Return Trip to New Mexico and its Adventures—­The Mormon Delegate to Congress informs Kit Carson of his Appointment as Indian Agent—­Kit Carson enters upon the Duties of his Office—­Bell’s Fight with the Apaches on Red River—­Kit Carson’s Interview with the same Indians—­High-handed Measures on the Part of the Apaches—­Davidson’s