f oak, bearing a long, slender acorn, from an
inch to an inch and a half in length, which we now began to see formed
the principal vegetable food of the inhabitants of this region. In a
short distance we crossed a little rivulet, where were two old huts and
near by were heaps of acorn hulls. The ground round about was very rich,
covered with an exuberant sward of grass; and we sat down for a while
in the shade of the oaks to let the animals feed. We repeated our shouts
for Mr. Preuss; and this time we were gratified with an answer. The
voice grew rapidly nearer, ascending from the river, but when we
expected to see him emerge, it ceased entirely. We had called up some
straggling Indian--the first we had met, although for two days back
we had seen tracks--who, mistaking us for his fellows, had been only
undeceived by getting close up. It would have been pleasant to witness
his astonishment; he would not have been more frightened had some of the
old mountain spirits they are so much afraid of suddenly appeared in his
path. Ignorant of the character of these people, we had now additional
cause of uneasiness in regard to Mr. Preuss; he had no arms with him,
and we began to think his chance doubtful. Occasionally we met deer, but
had not the necessary time for hunting. At one of these orchard grounds,
we encamped about noon to make an effort for Mr. Preuss. One man took
his way along a spur leading into the river, in hope to cross his
trail, and another took our own back. Both were volunteers; and to the
successful man was promised a pair of pistols--not as a reward, but as
a token of gratitude for a service which would free us all from much
anxiety."

At the end of four days, Mr. Preuss surprised and delighted his friends
by walking into camp. He had lived on roots and acorns and was in the
last stages of exhaustion.

Shortly the advance party reached Sutter's Fort where they received the
most hospitable treatment. All their wants were abundantly supplied, and
provisions were sent back to Fitzpatrick and his party.

CHAPTER XXV.

The Start Homeward--The Visitors in Camp and Their Story--Carson and
Godey Start to the Rescue--Trailing the Enemy by Night--In Camp--The
Attack--An Amazing Success--The Return.

Fremont and his command remained at Sutter's Fort about a month, when
their preparations were completed for their return to the States. They
journeyed leisurely up the valley of the San Joaquin, crossing over