including himself, with but four exceptions. These four escaped
only with the greatest difficulty and prudence. Through them the
particulars of the affair became known to the mountaineers.

Col. Fremont (we should before this have mentioned that Fremont had
been promoted in the corps of Topographical Engineers from the post of
Lieutenant to the rank of Captain by brevet) now examined the country
as far as the south side of the Great Salt Lake, passing on his route
a smaller body of water, which, for many years, has been known as
Little Utah Lake. The command halted at Great Salt Lake a few days
to recruit, preparatory to undertaking the further exploration of the
lake, together with one of its largest islands, which would be reached
by this southern route. The Indians met with on the journey, informed
them that on this island there was plenty of fresh water, and game in
abundance. On arriving at a suitable place, Col. Fremont pitched his
tents for the main camp. On the following morning, taking Kit Carson
and a few chosen men, Col. Fremont started to explore the island. The
reports of the Indians were proven to be true. In addition to plenty
of fresh water and game, they discovered very good timber growing
there. The game, which proved to be antelope, was so abundant that
they decided to kill from the herds a quantity sufficient for future
use. The island was about fifteen miles in length by about five in
breadth. From the main land to the island they were able to ride their
horses, as the water was not deep. Upon the banks of the lake they
found the salt deposit to vary from the thickness of a wafer to the
depth of twelve inches.

Having made their observations, the small party returned to the main
camp. On the following day the journey was resumed, the route leading
around the south side of the lake, until they reached the last fresh