Chapter 3

Among the Trappers.

The Discomfited Trappers.--The New Party Organized.--A Battle with the Indians.--Trapping on the Colorado.--March to the Sacramento.--The Friendly Indians.--Crossing the Desert.--Instinct of the Mule.--The Enchanting Valley of the Colorado.--The Mission of San Gabriel.--Vast Herds of Cattle.--The Mission of San Fernando.--Adventures in the Valley of San Joaquin.--The Meeting of two Trapping Bands.--Reasons for Kit Carson's Celebrity.--A Military Expedition.--The Indian Horse Thieves.--The Pursuit and Capture.