my true and reliable friend, Kit Carson." Fremont left Kansas City, Mo., May 29, 1843.
His general route was along the _old_ "Oregon Trail," then the _new_ "Oregon Trail," but at many places his route was different.

He followed up the Kansas River instead of the Platte.

But he crossed the Rocky Mountains over the South Pass, which is that of the Union Pacific Railroad, and was common to the Oregon Trail and the emigrant road to California.

During nearly the whole journey to Oregon Fremont divided his party.

One part he placed in charge of Fitzpatrick.