"So I see," remarked a tall lanky individual, who was standing near what seemed to be a small office in the midst of the stock yards. "A little ahead. It's only half past four."
"Everything all right?" asked Mr. Post.
"Sure thing. Who are your friends? Come along to see fair play?"
"Some boys who are going out west," replied Mr. Post. "Now let's get down to business. Excuse me for awhile, boys. Make yourselves to home, and I'll be with you after a bit. Look around all you like."
Mr. Post and his friend Lemuel Liggins retired into the small office. The boys alighted from the carriage, which drew up under a shed, and then the lads began to take in the various strange sights about them.
"I didn't suppose there were so many cows and steers in all the world," said Jack.
"Galloping grasshoppers! Neither did I," admitted Nat.
"You've just begun to see the west," said John Smith. "It's a great place, and a big place."
"Well, we're likely to see some of it in the next few weeks," said
Nat. "I reckon Colorado is a good place to get a wide view from."
"None better," admitted John. "It has a fine climate, and when we get there—"