“What, grizzly bear?” cried Chris excitedly.
“That’s the gentleman,” replied Griggs; “and as like as not after crossing a ridge or two we may come upon buffalo.”
“What, in the mountains?”
“Perhaps. More likely in the plains. There, don’t you chaps grumble any more. Your fathers have got quite enough to think about without having to talk to you about being a little more plucky and patient.”
“Yes, I know,” cried Chris, wincing; “we’re only grumbling to you.”
“Oh, then I don’t matter?”
“Not a bit. You’re such a good-tempered, patient chap, and you seem like one of us. But I say, Griggs, do you really think we are going to find a change in the country soon?”
“Certain.”
“Oh come, that’s better! We have had enough of sand and sage-brush, and we do want a regular change.”
“You’ll get it, then, and I dare say before night. Can’t you see that we’re on the slope of the mountains now?”