Two of the trappers had received, in this affray, wounds; which proved to be of a serious nature:  much more so than they or their companions thought on the first examination given them.  In consequence, the whole party was obliged to halt and again go into camp, having accomplished but a very short remove from their savage foes.  It became necessary to maintain a strong and careful guard during the succeeding night, notwithstanding the labors of the past day and night had been more than usually arduous.  However, they succeeded in passing the night without further molestation.  The next morning, it was found necessary to make a litter for one of the wounded men whose condition had grown to be much worse.

The method which the mountaineers adopt for making a litter, they have taken from the Indians, and is as follows.  Take two strong poles, six feet of which, at either extremity, is allowed for shafts, or handles, while the patient lies in the intermediate space on a buffalo robe, or strong sacking, which-ever is most convenient.  Two mules or horses of the same size are then selected; and, to saddles upon each of the animals, the poles, at their extremities, are fastened.  Another and simpler plan, but one not so comfortable to the patient, is to take the two poles as before and attach them strongly to a saddle on but one animal, while the two ends are allowed to drag upon the ground.  Directly in the rear of the horse the patient’s bed is affixed.  If the poles are long they will act as springs, especially when the wood used is of a kind which has considerable elasticity.

Having arranged everything to the satisfaction and comfort of the wounded men, the party commenced their march and in four days reached Gaunt’s camp where they rested until the wounded men had nearly recovered.  This simple fact shows the careful and sympathizing care which the mountaineers of the west ever exhibit towards each other in distress.  It speaks more than would volumes of mere praise, concerning their character for true manhood.

When the wounded men had so far recovered that they could safely proceed, the whole party, now quite strong in its numerical power, as well as skill and mountaineer experience, departed for, and, in due time, arrived at the Old Park.  The coveted beaver however were scarce there, for other trappers had preceded them; and, to employ trapping phrase, “had caught all the fur in those streams that could be taken that season.”  This was an unpleasant condition for their business prospects; but, as the old adage hath it, “what could not be cured was quietly endured.”  Catching beaver is not always a matter of choice.  The beaver themselves have considerable to say on the subject.

CHAPTER IV.