"At any rate, I have great confidence in you, and shall be guided by your report." "Is Ransom far from here?" "About seventy-five miles. The way to it is across country, and at times the traveling may be rough." "Oh, I can rough it," said Gerald, cheerfully. "Won't the superintendent be surprised at your not answering his letter?" "I shall answer it. I will write that I will take his offer into consideration—that in a matter of such importance I cannot decide at once. I will also add that it is doubtful whether I can go to Ransom on account of my health, but he can write me any further information that he thinks may interest me. I will also give you a paper stating that you represent me, but that is not to be used unless it seems expedient." "Yes, sir, I understand. Have you any further instructions? When do you wish me to start?" "As soon as you can get ready. I will make out a list of places along the route for your guidance. I would let you ask Mr. Loche for directions as to the course you are to take, but it might leak out where you had gone." "I shall find the place, sir. I am a Yankee, and can ask questions." "Take what money you need. I leave that to your discretion." "You put great trust in me, Mr. Nixon." "Well, young as you are, you are my right-hand man. Mr. Nugent could have done me no greater favor than by sending you to me." On the afternoon of the second day Gerald found himself riding up a rocky incline, probably fifty miles on his way. There was no other traveler in sight. This had been his experience much of the way. Through the clear atmosphere, however, he could see some scattered buildings, betokening the presence of a village three or four miles away. "I wish some one would come along," thought Gerald. "I haven't seen a face for three hours." Had Gerald foreseen in what way his solitude would be broken in upon, he would have hesitated to express such a wish. Ten minutes later he heard a terrible roar, and, looking up quickly, turned pale with dismay, as he noted the approach of a huge lion advancing toward him at terrific speed. He had never heard that lions were to be found in Montana, and his surprise was almost as great as his terror. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CHAPTER XXIX NERO THERE was no time or inclination on his part to speculate upon such an extraordinary appearance. He felt that his life was in peril, and he must consider at once whether there was any chance of his saving it. He was armed with a rifle, which thus far he had had no occasion to use. He was not unskilled in the use of firearms, and luckily the rifle was loaded. To use it seemed to be his one chance of safety.