“I think we are in for another storm,” said Grant, gazing around. “If so, the whole country will be sealed up until the spring.”
“Which is not the worst thing that might happen,” commented Buell Hampton.
“Would certainly give us ample time to make all our arrangements for the future,” concurred Roderick.
It was agreed that they would take with them that morning the sacks in which the provisions had been brought up, and bring back as much gold as they could carry. For a moment Grant and Roderick discussed the advisability of leaving their guns behind. But there were outlaws among the mountains, and it was deemed prudent to carry the weapons.
All preparations were now completed, and a start was made, the stableman being left in charge of the camp with instructions to have a good fire of embers ready for the brisket of venison they would return with about the noontide hour.
Buell Hampton led the way at a swinging gait,
Roderick followed, then came Grant Jones singing lustily:
“As I was coming down the road,
Tired team and a heavy load,
I cracked my whip and the leader sprang