That the river is more dangerous than most
people imagine, the bleaching bones of many a poor wretch who has been
drowned in its treacherous waters fully attest.
More than one prospector,
cattleman, or even cattle and horse "rustler" (as in Arizona parlance a
cattle and horse-thief is known), with too great self-confidence, has
attempted to cross on a log, in a leaky skiff, or in a canvas boat, and ere
he was aware of his danger, the current had swept him out of reach of all
help. It is a river to know ere you risk yourself upon or in it.
Getting Animals across the River. Who could begin to recount the fun and
frolic, and at the same time the worry and vexation we have experienced in
taking horses, mules and burros across this surly river. We have crossed at
all times of the year, at high water and low, when the water was cold
enough to give one cramps merely to look at it, and when it was comfortably
warm. Sometimes we had no trouble; then we felt how smart we were, and it
made us happy; at other times the animals seemed to be "possessed."
Sometimes it is the horses that are afraid; at others it is the mules; and
sometimes the burros; generally all three together. The modus is to put
your strongest rower in the boat, and then a man with plenty of nerve in
the stern to handle the rope and the animal to which it is attached, - when
you get the latter into the water.
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