Apparently, however, recollections of their experiences at the hands of the fearless young hunter were still vivid. Abruptly they turned away, and, swinging and swaying, made their way toward the mountains and soon disappeared from sight. With the departure of the bears Reuben was confident that he and his friend might safely leave their places of refuge. As Reuben started to descend the tree he was startled by a call from his comrade. “Don’t do that, lad!” “But they have gone,” protested Reuben. “You can’t trust them. No one knows how far away they are. They may simply be waiting for us.” “But I’m all cramped, I have been here so long. It doesn’t seem to me I can stay much longer.” “Oh, yes, you can,” called Kit Carson encouragingly. “We can stay here all night, if we have to.” It was late in the afternoon when at last a low call from Kit Carson caused Reuben to descend the tree. His muscles were so stiff from remaining such a long time in his cramped position that it was with difficulty that he was able to walk. His friend stopped for a moment as soon as he drew near and showed Reuben how he stretched his own weary muscles and exercised his arms which were almost numb. “Do you think the bears have gone for good and all?” inquired Reuben. “I think so. You had better load your rifle, though I don’t know that it would do you very much good. I have known a grizzly to be shot in the head, and, as far as one could see, pay about as much attention to the bullet as he would to a pebble. They must have heads that are mighty strong and thick. However,” he continued, “see that your rifle is all ready and we’ll start.” Cautiously the two trappers made their way from the place where both had been so nearly caught, and after a quarter of an hour had elapsed Kit Carson declared that the bears must have gone in the opposite direction from the one which they were following and were no longer to be feared. Somewhat assured by his companion’s confidence, Reuben nevertheless kept a careful watch as with his friend he advanced through the valley. The young hunter was greatly surprised when they came near to the end of the valley to discover a small Indian village before them. He had been unaware of the presence of the redmen and now that he saw this camp his fears returned. “Come on, lad. Don’t be afraid,” said Kit Carson quietly. “I have been here a great many times.” “You have?” exclaimed Reuben. “I didn’t know there was an Indian camp within ten miles of ours.” “Well, you see there is,” replied the scout dryly. “How long has it been here?” “A year or more.” “How do you know?”