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<h1> THE LIFE OF KIT CARSON, </h1>
<h2> Hunter, Trapper, Guide, Indian Agent and Colonel U.S.A. </h2>
<h2> By Edward S. Ellis. </h2>
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<h2> INTRODUCTION </h2>
<p>Christopher Carson, or as he was familiarly called, Kit Carson, was a man
whose real worth was understood only by those with whom he was associated
or who closely studied his character. He was more than hunter, trapper,
guide, Indian agent and Colonel in the United States Army. He possessed in
a marked degree those mental and moral qualities which would have made him
prominent in whatever pursuit or profession he engaged.</p>
<p>His lot was cast on the extreme western frontier, where, when but a youth,
he earned the respect of the tough and frequently lawless men with whom he
came in contact. Integrity, bravery, loyalty to friends, marvelous
quickness in making right decisions, in crisis of danger, consummate
knowledge of woodcraft, a leadership as skilful as it was daring; all
these were distinguishing traits in the composition of Carson and were the
foundations of the broader fame which he acquired as the friend and
invaluable counselor of Fremont, the Pathfinder, in his expeditions across
the Rocky Mountains.</p>
<p>Father Kit, as he came to be known among the Indians, risked his life
scores of times for those who needed, but had no special claim upon his
services. The red men were quick to learn that he always spoke with a
"single tongue," and that he was their unselfish friend. He went among his
hostiles when no one of his race dare follow him; he averted more than one
outbreak; he secured that which is impossible to secure—justice for
the Indian—and his work from the time when a mere boy he left his
native Kentucky, was always well done. His memory will forever remain
fragrant with those who appreciate true manhood and an unswerving devotion
to the good of those among whom he lived and died.</p>
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