But they did not venture to incur a repetition of the chastisement they had already received.

At length, with almost a ludicrous aspect of disconsolateness, they slowly retired into the forest.
Carson waited until assured that they had entirely withdrawn.

He then descended the tree, reloaded his rifle, and repairing to the spot where he had shot the elk, found that it had already been devoured by wolves.

This adventure had occupied many dreadful hours.

It was not until the morning dawned, that Carson found his way back to his anxious companions in the camp.