"There was nothing after that to keep the sixty Star mules together. Some went up the cañon, some down, a few even swam the Fraser, but the heft of them climbed the big cliffs and vanished into the forest.
"I reckon Pete and his arrieros could collect those mules and break them to loving a new madrina. But with Brooke as cargador, the great Star Pack-train's numbered with the past, and Mathson's partnership is scarce worth arguing.
"I was sorry to see the fine mules lost, and in my grief I kicked Brooke about one-third of a mile on his way home afoot."
CHAPTER VI
THE BLACK NIGHT
Kate's Narrative
"I, Boulton Wemyss Taylor, Commander R. N., retired, being of sound mind in a dying body, do hereby make my last will and testament:
"And do appoint the lady known as Madame Scotson my sole executress and trustee of all property which I may die possessed of;
"To pay my just debts, and to administer the remainder on behalf of my grandson, James Taylor,