86 FREDERICKSBURG 
The river or rather creek followed to-day, ran 
through a valley quite barren, save on its immediate 
banks, where the grass was good. No trees were seen, 
except here and there a small clump near the water- 
pools. During the whole day’s march ranges of barren 
hills lined the valley, which sloped gradually to its 
bottom. Estimated distance travelled to-day by the 
map, twenty-five miles. 
Our wounded horse seemed somewhat improved 
this morning, though his leg was still much swollen. 
He was led, and, as our movement was slow, kept up 
with us without difficulty. On reaching camp, he did 
not appear the worse for his march. 
October 27th. Continued along the valley of the 
Concho for eight or ten miles, and encamped at noon 
near a pool of brackish water, which our scouts reported 
to be the last they could find; and every appearance 
indicated a cessation of this necessary supply. To the 
west the valley seemed to terminate with the adjacent 
hills, and the open desert or prairie to commence 
immediately beyond. Expecting therefore no water 
until we should reach the Pecos, sixty-five miles distant, 
and knowing that the jornada which we had to cross 
furnished little grass, I determined to remain here the 
rest of the day, as the grass was very good and abun- 
dant. Our water-kegs were accordingly filled, as well 
as all the canteens, jars, bottles, and flasks that we could 
muster. Food was cooked ; and it was determined 
that there should be no stop beyond an hour or two, 
to let the animals rest and graze, in case grass should 
be found. The wagons were reloaded, so that each 
should carry an equal weight. Many ducks were killed 
