It was not until morning that the loss was discovered.
As usual Kit Carson was sent, at the head of twelve men, in pursuit of the thieves.

They selected their best horses, for it was certain that the Indians would make no delay in their flight.

It was found quite difficult to follow their trail, for, during the night, a herd of several thousand buffaloes had crossed and recrossed it, quite trampling it out of sight.
Still the sagacity of Carson triumphed, and after being baffled for a short time, he again with certainty struck the trail.
For forty miles the pursuit was continued with much vigor.

The horses then began to give out.

Night was approaching.