e making for the Utah country,
and they were pursued without difficulty; but, when that section was
reached, the soldiers came upon so many trails, which crossed and
recrossed so many times that all individuality was lost. The most
skilful scouts in the company were unable to identify or follow any one
with certainty.

The situation was exasperating, but there was no help for it and the
command was compelled to turn about and make their way home, having been
in the field more than two weeks without accomplishing anything at all.

But it was known that the Apaches would speedily reorganize and the
soldiers had but to wait a short while, when an opportunity would be
presented for striking an effective blow. When a sufficient period had
elapsed, another expedition was sent out under the command of Major
Carleton, of the First Regiment of United States Dragoons. He engaged
Kit Carson to act as his guide.

The force marched northward about a hundred miles to Fort Massachusetts,
where all the arrangements were completed. The party was divided, the
spies under Captain Quinn being sent to examine the country on the west
side of the White Mountains, while the Major decided to inspect the
territory to the eastward of the range.

Captain Quinn with his skilful trailers moved up the San Luis Valley
until he reached the famous Mosco Pass, which was often used by the
Apaches when hard pressed. They were perfectly familiar with all its
diverse and peculiar windings, and, when they once dashed in among the
rocks, they felt safe against any and all pursuers.

Making their way through this pass, Captain Quinn and his scouts reached
Wet Mountain Valley, where he had promised to meet and report to his
superior officer.

CHAPTER XXXVI.

Discovery of the Trail--Prairie Detectives.

Meanwhile, Kit Carson, who was with Major Carleton, had discovered a
trail made by three of the enemy. Carefully following it up, it was
found to join the principal path, a short distance away. When Quinn
arrived he had also some discoveries to report, and the scouts held a
consultation over the question. It was agreed by all that they were on
the track of the enemy they were seeking.

The general reader is not apt to appreciate the skill, patience and
intelligence shown by the scouts and hunters in tracing the flight of
an enemy through a wild and desolate country. As an evidence of the
wonderful attainments of border men in woodcraft, the follo