However, on nearing them, the stranger discovered his mistake; and, throwing his rifle across the saddle once more, reined in his horse and waited their approach; for the spot where he then stood presented an excellent camping-ground, with abundance of dry wood and convenient water.
"Where from, stranger?"
"The divide, and to the bayou for meat; and you are from there, I see. Any buffalo come in yet?"
"Heap, and seal-fat at that. What's the sign out on the plains?"
"War-party of Rapahos passed Squirrel at sundown yesterday, and nearly raised my animals. Sign, too, of more on left fork of Boiling Spring. No buffalo between this and Bijou. Do you feel like camping?"
"Well, we do. But whar's your companyeros?"
"I'm alone."
"Alone! Wagh! how do you get your animals along?"
"I go ahead, and they follow the horse."
"Well, that beats all! That's a smart-looking hos now; and runs some, I'm thinking."