investigation or deductions. In the month of March, 1847, Kit Carson
was ordered to carry important dispatches to the war department at
Washington. Lieutenant Beale, who was still a great invalid, was
permitted to accompany him. In order to show the regard which Kit
Carson entertained for this brave officer, and also to portray to the
reader the goodness of heart which has ever been the actuating impulse
in all of Kit Carson's actions, we will give his own words in relating
this part of his adventures. He says: "Lieutenant Beale went with me
as bearer of dispatches intended for the Navy Department. During the
first twenty days of our journey, he was so weak that I had to lift
him on and off of his riding animal. I did not think for some time
that he could live; but, I bestowed as much care and attention on
him as any one could have done under the circumstances. Before the
fatiguing and dangerous part of our route was passed over, he had so
far recovered as to be able to take care of himself. For my attention
(which was only my duty) to my friend, I was doubly repaid by the
kindness shown to me by his family while I staid in Washington, which
was more than I had any reason for expecting, and which will never be
forgotten by me." On the river Gila, Kit Carson's party was attacked
by Indians during the night, while they were encamped. These savages
threw a good round number of arrows into the midst of his men, which,
however, did no damage, as, early in the commencement of the assault,
he had directed them to hold up before them their pack-saddles, behind
which they could pretty securely conceal themselves while lying upon
the ground. He also directed the men not to talk, lest they should
indicate their positions. It was very dark, and the Indians, from the
above precautions being taken, were frustrated in their plans. His men
lay very still; and, having previously received the order so to do,
they awaited the near approach of the red men, when they were to use
their rifles as clubs. The reason which made this latter command best