TO SANTA CRUZ. 
385 * 
we succeeded in rounding the hill before referred to 
on its western side, and in dropping into the valley 
beyond. Here we found a small stream of clear and 
sweet water running through the valley. Pursuing 
still a course nearly south for about ten miles, we 
approached the base of the high and isolated moun- 
tain, when the stream and valley turned suddenly to 
the west. Continuing along it for a mile, we encamp- 
ed near a grove of large cotton-woods, in the midst of 
tall grass, within a little nook protected on three sides 
by steep hills. Here we were admirably concealed 
from an enemy, except in front, where lay the valley 
and stream. The latter, increased by rains from 
the adjoining mountains, had now become a rapid 
stream, and was closely hemmed in by willows, which 
rendered it difficult of approach. The valley for the 
last ten miles of our march resembled an old and 
highly cultivated place, from which the people and 
their habitations had suddenly disappeared. Large 
cotton-wood trees and willow bushes lined the stream, 
while here and there in little groves were beautiful 
oaks and large mezquit trees ; for the latter, although 
adapted to every soil, becomes a large tree in a rich 
soil like this. It seemed that each grove, as we ap- 
proached it, must conceal some dwelling place and 
cultivated grounds ; but in reality all was solitude, 
and there was no evidence that a furrow had ever 
turned the virgin soil, or a seed had even been sown 
there. 
September IMJi. Believing that by following the 
stream we should strike a road or path that would' 
guide us to our place of destination, we continued our 
VOL. I. — 25 
