The three had ridden briskly through a part of the foot-hills until they reached the more elevated portion, when the hunter led the way up a winding trail until, early in the afternoon, they arrived at what may be called the limit of "horse navigation," which is to say their ponies could give them no more help, since the way was too broken for them to climb further. Accordingly the three dismounted and removed all the trappings of the animals. Hazletine was so familiar with the country that he came to this favored spot without mistake or hesitation. It was a broad, irregular inclosure, in the form of a grassy plateau, where grass grew abundantly, and was walled in on nearly every side by immense rocks and boulders. A tiny stream of icy water wound along one side, disappearing at a corner among the rocks, which were so craggy and eccentric in their formation that a cavity or partial cavern was found, in which the party placed their bridles, saddles and blankets, and which was capable of giving them shelter against the most furiously driving rain-storm. "Surely we couldn't have found a better spot if we had hunted for a month," said Jack, admiringly surveying their surroundings. "This is to be our headquarters," explained Hazletine, "during the few days or the week that we spend in hunting here." "You mean that we are to spend each night in this place?" The guide nodded his head. "I don't know of any better arrangement," said Fred; "we can gather enough wood to keep a fire going, and, if rain should set in, shall have as good shelter as if in the house on the ranch." "That's it; and you mustn't furgit one thing," added Hazletine; "we fetched along just 'nough stuff fur dinner. We haven't anything left fur supper. None of the cattle git this fur into the mountains, so we can't count on them. Therefore, we've the ch'ice atween shooting game or starving to death." "That's enough to make us all do our best, but we cannot suffer so long as we have you for our companion." "But you ain't going to have me fur your companion." The boys stared at their friend in astonishment. He explained: "There ain't much show fur three persons to find game as long as they stick together. The right way is fur 'em all to part and each keep it up on his own hook. A chap isn't in half the danger of being seen by the deer or sheep, or whatever it may be he's after; and he has the chance, too, to show what stuff he's made of." "Then you intend to leave us?" "You've hit it the first time. I'll start out on my own bus'ness, meaning to be back here while the night's young." Observing significant looks passing between the boys, the man hastened to add: