When Carson wrapped his blanket around him, and lay down to rest, he knew his companion was on guard and would not slumber.

It was the same with his friend, their watchfulness undoubtedly preventing the attack which scarcely could have failed to be effectual.
It was needful now and then that one of them should venture out to procure game, but that was so plentiful that he was never compelled to go far, and he used such extreme care that he was not even so much as fired upon.
Thus the time passed, until at the end of several weeks, the hunters were surprised and delighted by the arrival of more than a dozen men on their way with a complete outfit to join the main body.

Carson and his friend were glad enough to go with them and the long journey was begun.
They had not gone far, when they exchanged shots with hostiles and there were almost daily skirmishes with them.

By sunset they had travelled a long distance, and went into camp, feeling certain that though Indians had not shown themselves, they were in the vicinity.

To prevent a stampede of their animals, the long ropes around their necks were fastened to stakes driven deep into the earth.