CHAPTER y 

 CRUISING 



WHEN Horace emerged from his tent in the morn- 

 ing his appearance caused something of a sensa- 

 tion. The veriest tyro in reconnaissance knows that 

 lightness of apparel and accoutrement is the first 

 care of the cruiser. Frazer, for example, besides his 

 instrument and notebook, wore simply, shoes and 

 socks, hat, shirt, and overalls. Some of the men car- 

 ried a canteen and revolver as well. But Wetherby 

 was a picture in khaki riding breeches and knee 

 boots, waterproof hat and heavy shooting coat. 

 Around his waist was a huge cartridge belt filled 

 with ammunition. ,To this were hung two wicked- 

 looking Colt army revolvers and a hunting knife. 

 The capacious pockets of his coat bulged with medi- 

 cine, bandages, and condensed food. A canteen was 

 slung under each arm and a rolled poncho tied across 

 his back, though the rainy season was a month away. 



Frazer stared a moment, dumbfounded. Then a 

 hopeless look came over his face and he said mildly : 



"Aren't you giving away a trifle too much weight, 

 .Wetherby 1" 



"Oh, no!" Horace assured him. "In Colorado 



33 



