and, on seeing them approach, lay down their arms and advance to meet
their white brothers, so that they might have a smoke together and
talk over their difficulties and thus amicably settle matters.

Their replies to this query contained nothing but evasions. Finally,
however, it having been mutually agreed upon, both parties disarmed
and marched to the place where their representatives were talking. The
Calumet was then prepared, lighted and handed around to each person
present, it being puffed once or twice by every one of the savages
and every one of the whites. The council then commenced. The head
men among the savages led off by making several lengthy and unmeaning
speeches. In their replies, the trappers came directly to the point,
and said they could hear no overtures for peace, until their property
was restored to them. The Indians, upon hearing this demand several
times repeated, began to presume upon their strength, assuming an
overbearing demeanor. After considerable talk among themselves, they
sent out and brought in five of the poorest horses, declaring that
it was the only number they could return. The trappers, upon hearing
this, ran for their arms; when, the Indians instantly started for
theirs. The fight was now renewed by both parties. Kit Carson, in the
rush made for the rifles, and one of his companions named Markhead,
succeeded in getting hold of their weapons first; and consequently,
they formed the advance in the return to the contest. They selected
for their antagonists, two Indians who were close together; but, who
were partially concealed behind separate trees. As Kit was on the
point of raising his rifle to fire he saw by a quick side glance at
Markhead, that he was working at the lock of his gun without paying
attention to his adversary who was aiming at him with, almost, a
certainty of killing him. Kit instantly changed the direction of his
rifle and fired, sending a bullet through the heart of Markhead's