November
5, Thursday [1846]. – Started an hour later than usual, the Howitzers
being still behind, expected to make a short day’s march, and
wait if necessary for them. Descended the Gila for 6 miles, then
taking up a dry, sandy ravine [Ash Creek], march about 10 miles,
bearing at first due south and then towards the west – reach
the Rio St. Pedro a mile or two above its junction with the
Gila, and encamped at the base of the hills on the west side,
having marched in all about 16 miles over an exceedingly rough
road. Saw orchards of the tomb-stone cactus, more than on any
previous day, and partridges [Quail] in their usual abundance.
The St. Pedro is a small stream, clear water, and with the usual
growth on its valley as found near all the streams in this
section of the country – the valley of this stream is quite
wide and covered densely with weed and scrubery [sic]...
Our guide [Kit Carson] has pointed out to us a peak near which
is the Mexican Garrison of Touson [sic].
