It was afterwards learned that the warrior was a Utah, with whom the white men were at peace.
The Utahs were of a war-like nature and Colonel Cook was apprehensive they would use the occurrence as a pretext for joining the Apaches in their attack upon the settlers.

He therefore sent Carson to the headquarters of his agency to do what he could to explain the matter and make all the reparation in his power.
As soon as he arrived at Taos, Carson sent a messenger with a request that the Utah chiefs would come and have a talk with him.

They were always glad to meet Father Kit face to face.

The agent told how the mistake was made, expressed the regret of himself and Colonel Cook and ended by restoring the property and by distributing a few presents among the chiefs.

The business was managed with such tact that the sachems expressed themselves perfectly satisfied and their affection and admiration for Father Kit became greater than before.
Colonel Cook was unwilling to return without striking a more effective blow against the Apaches.