that lay in his power, commenced
his homeward-bound march. While _en route_ he traveled by the head
waters of the Canadian River and its tributaries, and passed over bold
and lofty mountains, and through a picturesque country. Finally he
reached Taos. His command was in a very good condition, considering
the hardships to which it had been exposed.

Although we say, in common parlance, that this command returned in
good condition, yet it must not be presumed by this assertion that
they came back making a fine appearance, like that presented by
soldiers on a parade. When out on these campaigns, the comfort of the
men is considered to be of more importance than either pomp or show;
hence, those military trappings which are not particularly essential,
are left behind, while there is just enough uniformity of dress
remaining, to make them recognizable as soldiers. But little luggage
can be transported on these trips, hence, the soldiers are obliged to
limit their wants to actual necessity, which seldom amounts to more
than the clothes they have on. When about starting out, the soldiers
bear the appearance of being ready for hard work; which, after
finishing, they are glad to return, even if they present themselves
at their quarters in rags. It is wonderful what a change in personal
appearance a few weeks can make by traveling in the mountains. The
person thus exposed partially conforms to the habits of the wild
Indians, both in appearance and mode of life. Such toilet articles
as mirrors and razors, with their paraphernalia, are dispensed
with, personal beauty being a thing the most to be despised. In lieu
thereof, robust health shows itself in the cheek, the eye, and the
whole economy of the man. The blood courses through his veins as pure
as the water in the mountain streams about him. By this training, the
mind becomes clear and well balanced, and the whole system reaches a
condition which far surpasses the finest constructed machinery. This
happy state of the body does not, however, communicate itself to the
fantastical appearance of the soldiers as they come marching along.
Were they to enter a town belonging to a civilized community, when
arrayed in this mountain costume, they would be at once judged as a
band of desperadoes.

On arriving at his home, Kit Carson resumed the duties of his office
as Indian Agent, which occupied his time during the remainder of
the year. Soon after, another expedition was organized and