about noon
Just before daybreak , I was awakened by the startling intelligence , that neither Hal or the messenger had reached the fort ; but Colonel Sewell had , upon Don Ignacio 's request , immediately ordered a company of dragoons in pursuit of the Indians . The only inference to be drawn from the facts was , that both Hal and the messenger had been killed or taken prisoners , by a portion of the same band that attacked our camp ; and , although myself , greatly depressed by the uncertainty attending their absence , I endeavored to assure Don Ramon , that their capture was extremely fortunate , on his daughter 's account , for it would be certain to ensure her safe return to her friends . This thought appeared to afford the old man a little comfort , and he finally decided , to continue with the train , until we should arrive at El Paso . We got under way about noon ; and , with sad hearts , followed the windings of the road through the _ Cañon de los Camenos _ , and on to the Rio Grande ; thence , following the course of the river , to the old _ Presidio _ of San Elezario , and so on to Fort Bliss , about one mile below the town of El Paso . At this post we found Colonel Jim Magoffin , the owner of the train with which we had travelled from San Antonio ; and , upon conferring with him , he informed me that Anastacio , who had been captured with Hal , was an old scout who had been in his employ for years . He was not only trustworthy , but thoroughly acquainted with the country , as well as the habits and customs of the Indians ; and , if alive , would certainly find means to communicate with his family , who resided near the fort . The colonel also recommended , that Don Ramon , should endeavor to enlist the Mexican authorities in the matter , in case the Indians , should by any chance have crossed the river with their captives .