t morning I was awakened by the noise and
confusion in camp, incident to a first start. Men were shouting at the
mules; mules were braying; whips cracking; wheels creaking; and, far
above all, I could hear the loud voices of Hal and Ned, now giving orders
and endeavoring to instruct old Jerry how to catch an unruly mule that
seemed disposed to make some trouble, and again cautioning every one to
make no noise, for fear of disturbing me before my breakfast should be
ready.

Springing to my feet, I found that the teams were already harnessed, and
only waiting the appearance of our travelling companions to start.

Breakfast was soon dispatched, the camp equipage, blankets, etc., stowed
in one of the wagons; and very shortly the still morning air bore to our
ears the distant rumble of heavy wagons, the shouts of the teamsters, and
the many sounds indicating the approach of a large train. Presently the
herd of spare mules was seen, and then the covers of the wagons. We
mounted our ponies, old Jerry called out in a cherry tone,
"_Vamose_!" the teamsters cracked their whips, the mules pulled with
a will, and we fell in behind the wagons, and were at last fairly on the
road, bound for the "Golden State."

As the first rays of the rising sun flashed athwart the beautiful green
prairie, the boys gave a yell of delight at the sight, which was indeed a
glorious one;--the long line of wagons, each drawn by eight mules,
stretching far ahead and following the tortuous windings of the road,
their white covers, blue bodies, and bright red wheels presenting a
contrast to the sober green of the surrounding country that was at once
pleasing and unique.

[Illustration: Leading the Train.]

As we realized the truly formidable appearance of the caravan, Hal, with
his usual impetuosity, declared that there wern't Indians enough in the
country to whip us; for confirmation of his opinion, appealing to old
Jerry, who, however, only shrugged his shoulders after the peculiar
manner of frontiersmen, and said, "_Quien sabe?_" or, who knows?

For five long days we followed the road, without meeting with any
incident worthy of note. The settlements had all been passed, Fort Clark
left far behind, and not an Indian been seen by any of our party.

On the evening of the eighth day, we encamped upon the banks of the
Nucces. It was a beautiful night. The young moon was fast sinking behind
the line of the distant mountains, leaving us to enjoy the lig