Part 16 (1/2)
It was not long before the party were off once more, up a trail which led directly to thewas difficult, and both riders and horses were glad to rest at frequent intervals
When the top was gained the sun was just sinking in the far west The sight on every side was a glorious one, and as the captain had a slass with him, they could see forthrough the glass ”I can see the flag quite plainly”
In the ere more mountains, and between these the valley for which they were bound Timber and underbrush were dense in spots, while at other points the mountain sides were covered with bold, blackish rocks, with here and there luxuriant s and brooks were nuer of a water faalass adjusted to his sight
”What is it?”
”I can't see very plainly”
”Hand over the glass,” said old Benson, and took a careful look But the setting sun now cast a deep shadoeen the mountains, and he was unable to tell what it was
”Mountain deer, ood weather holds out”
”Do you think we'll have a stor; don't you think so, captain?”
”I think we'll have more wind than rain,” returned Captain Moore
”If we have a high wind, will it be safe right on the mountain top?”
questioned Joe
”We won't stay here,” said old Benson ”I know of a -place Coht” And they set off once more
The place the old scout had in mind was close beside a cliff The wall of rocks ice as high as their heads, and on either side was a growth of heavy tirassy patch which pro it did not rain
”If it storms we can seek the shelter of the cliff,” said old Benson
”It won't be as coood deal better than being right in the open”
The boys were glad enough to rest after the wearisory for the meal the old scout took upon himself to prepare
When the fire was lit it burned up lively, blowing the sparks in several directions As soon as he finished cooking the meal Benson put out the blaze
”Too much wind,” he said, in reply to a question from Joe ”I don't want to set the whole ht about the wind, which was noeeping strongly through the tops of the tall trees Presently it caan to fly around, uttering their shrill cries The old scout listened to the birds with so blow,” he said to Darry
”You are sure?”
”Yes The birds are afraid of it See how they flutter around? That's a sure sign”
”Birds ood deal, Benson”