The strongest lay down and died, and the horrible features of Fremont's fourth expedition were only approached by that of Lieutenant Strain on the Isthmus of Darien.

When the few ghastly survivors staggered out of the mountains they tottered to Carson's ranche, where they received the kindest treatment from him who had served Fremont so faithfully on his former expeditions.
Carson had been on his ranche but a short time, when news reached him of a most atrocious murder by the Apaches.

A wealthy merchant was returning in his private carriage with his wife and child from the United States to Santa Fe.

He was accompanied by a small escort and the wagon train carrying his goods.

When he believed all danger past, he hurried forward with his family, who were becoming tired of the journey.
At a point where there was no suspicion of danger, the Apaches fired upon the carriage, killing every one who accompanied it, including the merchant himself.