286 FROM ARISPE BACK TO 
at half-past five, our route being through the great 
cafion. Having less cutting to do than before, and 
being acquainted with the road, we accomplished 
our task in nine hours, and drove on two miles 
beyond Bacuachi, where we encamped. In passing 
the town we endeavored to replenish our stock of 
eggs; but a single dozen was all the place afforded. 
The wagons stopped in the cafion, to rest and feed 
the mules; which prevented their reaching camp till 
5 o'clock. Distance travelled fifteen miles. 
June 5th. Remained in camp till noon, to repair 
- one of Colonel Craig’s wagons, which had received 
some damage in the cafion. We then set off and 
pushed on rapidly, over a pretty level and easy road 
for twelve or fifteen miles, which brought us to the 
foot of the mountains. Before attempting the passage 
of the defile, which would be more difficult than it 
was in coming through, it being now chiefly on the 
ascent, we doubled the teams at once, putting ten 
maules to each wagon. All went on very well until we 
came to a steep hill with a sidelong slant. The car- 
riage led the way ; but with all the care of my driver, 
the mules unable to maintain their position slid on their 
haunches, and on coming to a narrow turn the tongue 
snapped off, and the carriage was with great difficulty 
saved from upsetting. The first wagon that followed 
was one of my own, driven by Jesus. On coming to 
the same treacherous place, in spite of all our efforts 
to prevent it, the wagon slid down, bringing the for- 
ward wheel suddenly against a rock, and crushing it 
almost into atoms; the wagon turned bottom upwards, 
rolling down the ravine, and scattering its contents as 
