CHAPTER I.

Carson's Birthplace--His Emigration to Missouri--Early Prospects--Is an Apprentice--Stories of the Rocky Mountains--He Enlists to go there--Adventures on the Prairies--Broaders is Wounded--Carson's Nerve put to the Test--Rude Amputation--Safe Arrival at Santa Fe--Goes to Taos and learns the Spanish Language--Early Vicissitudes--Disappointment and Attempt to return to Missouri--Is employed as an Interpreter, Teamster, etc., 13