CHAPTER I.

PAGE Hero of the narrative -- from what race descended -- his fame -- theater of his exploits-nativity -- his father emigrates to Missouri -- father's occupation -- Kit's apprenticeship -- dissatisfaction with his trade -- joins an expedition to Santa Fe -- surgical operation -- Santa Fe, its situation, business, style of buildings, water, appearance, altitude, scenery, population -- spends the winter at Taos -- learns the Spanish language -- joins a party bound to Missouri -- returns to Santa Fe -- becomes a teamster -- El Paso, its grape culture, style of living of its people, name -- youth of traveler -- new occupation for the winter -- becomes interpreter for a trader. 13