[pg 309]
"As it is, I'll admit, there seems to be something in the air. They say birds know when an earthquake is coming. I feel uneasy myself, and don't know why. I started for Oregon. I don't know why. Do you suppose--"
The speculations of either man ceased as both caught sight of a little dust cloud far off across the sage, steadily advancing down the slope.
"Hum! And who's that, Jesse?" commented the Ohio leader. "Get your big glass, Jesse."
Wingate went to his wagon and returned with the great telescope he sometimes used, emblem of his authority.
"One man, two packs," said he presently. "All alone so far as I can see. He's Western enough--some post-trapper, I suppose. Rides like an Indian and dressed like one, but he's white, because he has a beard."
"Let me see." Price took the glass. "He looks familiar! See if you don't think it's Jim Bridger. What's he coming for--two hundred miles away from his own post?"
It was Jim Bridger, as the next hour proved, and why he came he himself was willing to explain after he had eaten and smoked.
"I camped twelve mile back," said he, "an' pushed in this mornin'. I jest had a idee I'd sornter over in here, see how ye was gittin' along. Is your hull train made here?"