On board the steamer, he found himself almost a perfect stranger.

Though a small man in frame, modest and unobtrusive, there was something in his kindly handsome face and winning manners, which invariably attracted attention.

As he quietly wandered over the boat, studying its machinery, the discipline of the crew and the faces of his fellow passengers, he found himself irresistibly drawn towards one whose countenance and dignified bearing indicated that he was decidedly above most of those on board.
It is said that "the eagle eye, the forehead, the form, the movements, the general features, the smile, the quiet dignity of the man, each and all these attributes of his manhood had been carefully noted by the wary and hardy mountaineer, and had not failed to awaken in his breast a feeling of admiration and respect." Kit Carson entered into conversation with this man.

Immediately an attachment sprang up between them, which grew increasingly strong through many subsequent years.

The new friend whom Carson had thus found was Lieutenant John C.Fremont, of the United States corps of Topographical Engineers.