Chapter 27 - Page 2

about to enter the mountain defile, at the head of

Green River valley, where they might be waylaid and attacked;

they, therefore, arranged the packs on their horses, in the

manner most secure and convenient for sudden flight, should such

be necessary. This done, they again set forward, keeping the most

anxious look-out in every direction.

It was now drawing toward evening; but they could not think of

encamping for the night, in a place so full of danger. Captain

Bonneville, therefore, determined to halt about sunset, kindle a

fire, as if for encampment, cook and eat supper; but, as soon as

it was sufficiently dark, to make a rapid move for the summit of

the mountain, and seek some secluded spot for their night's

lodgings.

Accordingly, as the sun went down, the little party came to a

halt, made a large fire, spitted their buffalo meat on wooden

sticks, and, when sufficiently roasted, planted the savory viands

before them; cutting off huge slices with their hunting knives,

and supping with a hunter's appetite. The light of their fire

would not fail, as they knew, to attract the attention of any

Indian horde in the neighborhood; but they trusted to be off and

away, before any prowlers could reach the place. While they were

supping thus hastily, however, one of their party suddenly

started up and shouted "Indians! " All were instantly on their

feet, with their rifles in their hands; but could see no enemy.

The man, however, declared that he had seen an Indian advancing,

cautiously, along the trail which they had made in coming to the

encampment; who, the moment he was perceived, had thrown himself

on the ground, and disappeared. He urged Captain Bonneville

instantly to decamp. The captain, however, took the matter more

coolly. The single fact, that the Indian had endeavored to hide

himself, convinced him that he was not one of a party, on the

advance to make an attack. He was, probably, some scout, who had

followed up their trail, until he came in sight of their fire. He

would, in such case, return, and report what he had seen to his

companions. These, supposing the white men had encamped for the

night, would keep aloof until very late, when all should be

asleep. They would, then, according to Indian tactics, make their

stealthy approaches, and place themselves in ambush around,

preparatory to their attack, at the usual hour of daylight.

Such was Captain Bonneville's conclusion; in consequence of

which, he counselled his men to keep perfectly quiet, and act as

if free from all alarm, until the proper time