“Thank you,” he said to Young gratefully. “With your help I may be able to learn something. At any rate you shall hear from me in a day or so.” A week elapsed, and Benson sorrowfully confessed that so far as his purpose was concerned, he was not one whit wiser than when he arrived at Salt Lake City. Each day, Mr. Hickman, at the handsome figure he had fixed upon as a reasonable remuneration for the benefits he would confer, bore him company in his search; at first displaying a sardonic humour which his employer wholly failed to enjoy; later this changed to a sneering petulance, for the lawyer's persistency was of a kind he had scarcely bargained on. Yet, in the end, Benson's determination provoked him to a grudging admiration to which he gave expression in characteristic speech. “You certainly ain't much of a quitter, sir,” he said. “What's your next move going to be? For I reckon there's a next move coming.” “Several next moves,” said Benson, slightly nettled by the man's manner. “Well, we'll take 'em one at a time. What comes first?” Hickman asked grinning. “The Indian tribes in the mountains,” answered Benson with quiet determination. “That will be just like chasing thistle down,” and Hickman's grin widened. “Then I'll chase it!” said Benson shortly. “And never come up with it.” “That remains to be seen.” “Even if you manage to locate the different camps, you don't suppose, do you, that any redskin will own up he's had a hand in doing away with your friends? And if you venture in among them, what's to hinder them from serving you some trick?” “That's a risk I shall have to take.” “I guess you'll find it's more than a risk—” “Of course, if you prefer not to accompany me—” began Benson. “Oh, I ain't afraid. It would take right smart to scare Bill Hickman, and Brigham's appointed me to see that no harm comes to you.” “Has he? That's very kind of him.” “Oh, I reckon he's got his reasons,” said Hickman coolly, “And you carry out his wishes?” “I take counsel.” “What's that?” inquired Benson. “It's principally doing what I'm told. That's why you can count on me, young man, no matter what you do.” “I suppose it will be necessary to secure the services of an interpreter and guides; do you know where I can find a man who is acquainted among the various tribes?” “I'll have to think that over for a spell.” But the very next day Hickman arrived early at the hotel and informed Benson that Young wished to see him. They found him in his office, but not alone. With him was a tall, gaunt fellow, whose deeply-lined face, in spite of its sunburn, showed an unwholesome pallor. The president shook hands cordially with Benson, and motioned him to a chair.