mercifully aided them. There was no time for delay, as they were by
no means yet free from danger, though they thought that the worst
was over. Kit Carson was familiar with the country, and well knew
the necessity of avoiding, for fear of being discovered, all the well
trodden trails and roads which led to San Diego, every one of which
was closely watched by the enemy. He chose a circuitous route, over
rocks, hills and wild lands. The soil was lined with the prickly pear,
the thorns of which were penetrating, at almost every step, deep into
their bare feet, which, owing to the darkness and the thickness of the
plants, they could not avoid. The town of San Diego was located many
miles in a straight line from the point from whence they had started,
but, by the round-about route they were obliged to travel, this
distance was much lengthened. All the following day they continued
their tramp and made as much progress as possible. Their mental
excitement kept them in good spirits, though, from previous fatigue,
the want of food during this time, and by the rapid pace at which they
were traveling, they were putting their physical powers to their full
test. Another night closed in around them, yet "ONWARD" was their
watchword, for they thought not of rest while those behind them were
in such imminent peril. Kit Carson's only compass was his eye, which
served him so well that soon the dark outlines of the houses of San
Diego could just be discerned. Both men were ready to leap with joy.
They were challenged by the American sentinels about the town,
and answered in pure English, "Friends," which same English was
unmistakable proof to the guard from whence they came. On stating
their important business, they were conducted into the presence
of Commodore Stockton, to whom they related what we have tried to
describe. Commodore Stockton, with his usual promptitude, immediately
detailed a command of about one hundred and seventy men to make forced
marches in order to reach and relieve their besieged countrymen. With