"Sling blankets between your horses," he commanded, decisively. "Move
quickly, lads, and we may save one of these lives yet."
He led in the preparation himself, his cheeks flushed, his movements
prompt, decisive. As if by some magic discipline the rude, effective
litters were rapidly made ready, and the two seemingly lifeless bodies
gently lifted from off the ground and deposited carefully within. Down
the long, brown slope they advanced slowly, a soldier grasping the rein
and walking at each horse's head, the supporting blankets, securely
fastened about the saddle pommels, swaying gently to the measured tread
of the trained animals. The lieutenant directed every movement, while
Carson rode ahead, picking out the safest route through the short
grass. Beneath the protecting shadows of the first group of
cottonwoods, almost on the banks of the muddy Bear Water, the little
party let down their senseless burdens, and began once more their
seemingly hopeless efforts at resuscitation. A fire was hastily
kindled from dried and broken branches, and broth was made, which was
forced through teeth that had to be pried open.
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