Seeing there was no possible place for Jack to gain a foothold on either side of the river, he allowed the horse to swim on at the steed's own will.
He had lifted the mail pouch above the water, and feeling that its contents were not injured, he calmly waited the end of his adventure.
Jack must have swum nearly a mile down the stream before his rider saw a place where a landing could be effected, when he guided the course of the steed in that direction.
After a severe struggle, during which Little Snap several times felt that the attempt must be given up, the brave bay succeeded in gaining a foothold upon terra firma.
The postboy then sprang to the ground, while Jack shook the water from his dripping sides.
When he had found that the mail matter had not suffered from the water, he remounted and rode on toward Salt Works, finding his way slowly along the rugged mountain side, until at last he was gladdened by the sight of the road.
Jack soon increasing his gait to a smart canter, the distance to Salt Works was speedily passed, at which place Little Snap told his story to a wondering circle of listeners, whom it was plain to see failed to think that his story could be the truth in full.
"The road will have to be cleared before I can get back," said our hero. "It must be completely blocked by the rock."
"It doesn't come in our district," said the postmaster, "but I will endeavor to get word up to Greenbrier about it. They would never find it out if I didn't."
Leaving Jack here, Little Snap continued his journey with his relief horse, making his trip to Upper Loop and return without adventure.