"Hello!" he greeted Ross, as one familiar with his surroundings greets a stranger.
He stepped inside with that air of assurance which proclaims ownership. His eyes left Ross, and swept the shack.
"What––" he began, and suddenly stopped, his gaze traveling back curiously to the boy. "What––" he began again, but got no further.
Ross was the first one to complete a question, and it was an eager one.
"Where did you come from?"
"Cody," returned the stranger, reciprocating with "And you?"
"Meadow Creek."
"Meadow Creek!" in surprise. "Is the trail open now?"
Ross shook his head. "I don’t know. I came last January."
"January!" The stranger stared, and stuffed his hands into his pockets. "Do ye mean t’ tell me ye’ve been here sence January?"