however, just now among these wild passes, and if you

can guide us out of our difficulties to the east side of

the mountains, I'll thank you heartily and pay you well.

But first tell me who and what you are, if it's a fair

question."

"My name is Dick Varley, and my home's in the

Mustang Valley, near the Missouri River. As to

what

I am--I'm nothin' yet, but I hope to desarve the name

o' a hunter some day. I can guide you to the east side