306 CASAS GRANDES TO 
their journey. The party consisted of forty persons, 
including men and women. Their wagons were all | 
drawn by oxen, six of which were attached to each. 
As before, the chief inquiries were about the state of 
the road, the grass and water, and lastly the Indians. 
We learnt from them that there had been abundant 
rains on their route, and that the grass was excellent, 
and water abundant. This was cheering news to us, ' 
and better than we could give in return. 
On conversing with the leader of the party, I found 
him disposed to sell one of his wagons; and after some 
parleying we agreed upon the terms, which were two 
hundred dollars. The bargain was no sooner made 
than the wagon was empted of its contents, consisting 
of baggage and old furniture, and was taken posses- 
sion of by us. It was a large, strong, and well made 
wagon, and bore the name of ‘“‘ark,” painted upon its 
side in large letters. It required some changes to 
adapt it to mules, which we at once set about making. 
In the mean time Mr. Leroux went to the town to try 
and sell the broken wagon, which only lacked an axle 
and wheel to be as good as ever. But the people 
knew that we must leave it behind us, and they de- 
clined to take itat any price. We accordingly stripped 
it of its tongue, coupling-pole, hounds, iron bolts, and 
auts, broke up one of the wheels for tent-pins, and 
abandoned the remainder. 
July 22d. We did not get ihe “ark” ready until 
noon, when we resumed our journey. The weather 
was now so moderate that we could travel during the 
day, which was a great relief to us. The road was 
good during this day’s journey, and the new wheel 
