Probably since the old
Indian days, no human feet beside their own had trodden these wilds that
offered no temptations to the farmer or grazier.
Before long the sun had vanished over the western rim and twilight came
on rapidly. This rendered Bert's task, easier by diminishing the chances
of detection, and as the twilight deepened into dusk, he gradually
decreased the distance until, when it was fully dark, he had ventured
to draw so near that he could hear the jingle of their trappings and an
occasional monosyllable that passed between the riders.
Suddenly, as they rode into a little valley, a light gleamed out from a
shack half a mile distant. It was the first sign of a human habitation
Bert had seen. At the sight, an oath of satisfaction broke from the
leader, and the three urged on their horses, who responded willingly.
It was evident that they had reached the end of their journey.
As they dashed into the clearing in front of the house, the door was
thrown open and several men came out to greet the newcomers. The saddles
were taken from the horses' backs and they were turned loose to graze.
Pages:
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227
228
229
230
231
232
233
234