There they entered a region which had been visited by one of those droughts which continue sometimes for many months.

The grass was so dry and parched that it contained scarcely any nourishment, and the friendly Pimos told them if they pushed on their animals were sure to die of starvation.

It was impossible to doubt these statements and Carson therefore proposed a new route, which though very rough and difficult in some places, would furnish all the forage that was required.
The course led them along the Gila to the mouth of the San Pedro, and finally with little difficulty they reached the copper mines of New Mexico.

Shortly after Carson encountered the Mormon delegate to Congress.

During the exchange of courtesies, the gentleman conveyed the interesting information that he--Carson--had been made Indian Agent for New Mexico.
The news was a surprise and a great pleasure to the mountaineer.