MOJAVE COUNCIL.—OFFER OF A GUIDE. 
119 
of small sea-shells, much prettier than the last, were easily obtained for a dollar. They have 
suddenly learned the value of money. In order to facilitate this knowledge, we have made a 
point of taking the few shillings they have offered in trade; giving shirts, and such articles as 
they desired, in exchange. 
Generosity is not a distinguishing trait in Indian character. Instances of hospitality, how¬ 
ever, have sometimes been noticed. The Cuchans are evidently welcomed by Mojaves wherever 
they go. The Pinal Leilas, when Ave were with them two years since, seeing us without an 
escort, nearly defenceless, and with a scanty allowance of provisions, generously gave us, from 
their winter’s store of food, pine nuts and mezcal. Similar examples could he cited from most 
of the tribes we have met. 
Every day these Indians have passed with us has been like a holiday fair, and never did 
people seem to enjoy such occasions more than the Mojaves have done. They have been gay 
and joyous, singing, laughing, talking, and learning English words, which they readily and 
perfectly pronounce. Everything that seems new or curious they examine with undisguised 
delight. This evening a greater number than usual remained in camp. Placing confidence in 
our good intentions and kindness, all reserve was laid aside. Tawny forms could he seen flitting 
from one camp-fire to another, or seated around a blaze of light, their bright eyes and pearly 
teeth glistening with emotions of pleasure. They exhibited Indian character in a new phase, 
giving an insight into the domestic amusements which are probably practised around their 
firesides at home. Mingling among the soldiers and Mexicans, they were interested in games 
and puzzles with strings, and some of their own suggestions were quite curious. 
The chiefs came to-day with the interpreter to say that a national council had been held, at 
which they approved of the plan for opening a road to travellers through the Mojave country. 
They knew that upon the trail usually travelled by the Pai-Utes towards California the springs 
of water were small, and insufficient for our train; that on the journey our mules therefore 
would perish from thirst, and the expedition fail. Hence they had selected a good man, who 
knew the country well, and determined to send him to guide us by another route, where suffi¬ 
cient water and grass could he found. They wished us to report favorably to our great chief, 
in order that he might send many more of his people to pass this way, and bring clothing and 
utensils to trade for the produce of their fields. 
The guide presented was our old friend, a sub-chief called “ Cai-rook,” who had so success¬ 
fully conducted the instrument wagon and the surveyors around the mountain spur which 
intersected the Colorado valley between the country of the Chemehuevis and that of the Mojave 
Indians. He professed his willingness to accompany us to the junction of the Mormon road 
with the Mojave river. Pointing to the position which the sun would have in the sky at the 
commencement and end of each march, and closing a finger to mark each day, he clearly de¬ 
scribed the route, and the time it would require to perform the journey. He also made a trace 
of it upon the ground, laying down the position of each stream and spring, and stating whether 
much or little water would be found at the several points. To different, persons his explanation 
was the same, and would never admit the possibility of encountering more or less obstacles than 
he had at first denoted. The price of his services was to consist of a blue blanket, a Mexican 
serape, a shirt, and a few strings of white beads. At his request a dragoon overcoat was added. 
The serape was presented at once. The remaining articles were to be given at the conclusion of 
his services. Cai-rook then left camp, promising to be with us early on the morrow. 
