>* .«<3. \^ -Mil \/ .*a&- % ***** 4J V fe ^ 4, 4fe- ^ .-Mfe' "^ •*;» ^ "life 4 ^ '*]Sfc' ** <** 4 0c v ^ 4? * C^^rv W ^ MYRTLE C. TALLMAN The Traveling Trio By Myrtle Catherine Tallman Copyright, 1908 LINCOLN, NEBR. The Woodruff-Collins Press 1908 i wo Oodics rteceiv.* AUG 8 ^08 iitiujftlthi ciitfjr DEDICATION. To the busy, hard-working railroad employees, who always found time to perform an act of kindness when they came in contact with the authoress and her companions, do I sincerely dedicate this volume. Myrtle C. Tallman. RUTH TALLMAN INTRODUCTION. |i||HE one thing that will impress the Pill reader of the following pages is the fact that the writer, a helpless invalid, has scarcely revealed that fact at all. If she had not referred to her "rolling chair" perhaps one would have wondered why she rode in the baggage car or on the rear plat- form of the caboose whenever compelled to travel by "accommodation train". If those who read the book could know the circumstances of the heroic life of the author I am sure that they would be stirred up to such a pitch of enthusiasm as would carry them through any periods of depression or discouragement which might come their way. If with her affliction and limitations she can live self-forgetfully and minister, in the least degree, to the cheery disposition, then I am sure that no one need become despondent. This world needs more members in its "sun- shine band" and welcomes any who may seek admission thereto, but especially when one who might be expected to be a debtor appears as a creditor there is the greatest cause for rejoicing. 6 The Traveling Trio Myrtle Catherine Tallman has made who- ever reads this book a debtor to the Gospel of Cheer, for herein she has proven her right to be counted among the apostles of sunshine sometimes called "Cheer-up-o-dists". Aside from these considerations the story of "The Traveling Trio" is full of interest. It was indeed a courageous undertaking and in line with the heroic qualities in this brave life. The lesson taught is doubly impressive coming through such a teacher. Miss Tall- man has been a resident of this town some three years, during which time I have had the pleasure of her acquaintance. Occasionally she has attended our church services which she always appears to enjoy, but she is a member of a sister church. How- ever it is a real pleasure to contribute even a small token of appreciation to a life of such sterling worth. Wm. J. Brient. The Methodist Parsonage, Genoa, Nebraska. May, 1908. The Traveling Trio A GLIMPSE OF NEBRASKA. ||||S|EFORE unfolding our western trip fpliSIr let me tell you something about the j|Pl|l prosperous state of Nebraska, in which iiillll I have lived since babyhood. Now do not yawn and lay the book aside with the impression that you are face to face with a lengthy article on climate, cultivation, and productions. To some the following lines may prove of no interest because they are already familiar with the facts quoted therein, while others may fancy it too practical for their perusal; yet the latter, if they turn the pages unread, will undoubtedly miss a few items of informa- tion. 8 The Traveling Trio Some years ago I remember reading an amusing incident written by a gentleman in New York City. It was a dreary day in winter, the snow- flakes were rapidly descending and the tem- perature was very low. A party of poorly clad newsboys were huddled together in the shelter of the postoffice with their papers held securely; they waited in vain for a lull in the storm. Finally the bravest of the number leaped from the steps into the fury of the storm with these words of determination and courage, " Let's tackle the dread.' J It would certainly be a good motto for the rest of us who fre- quently hesitate in doing that which is unpleasant. When a child I well remember how I looked with disfavor on piecrust, ofttimes it would have remained uneaten if my parents had permitted such an act. If the pie had been constructed without crust it would have pleased me much better, but as it was I soon learned that the inevitable margin of the pie could be semi-enjoyed if eaten first. Hence I preface the contents of this book with what may seem a crust to some of you The Traveling Trio 9 It is composed of solid matter which I trust will be interesting as well as instructive. Just remember the newsboys and tackle the dread by disposing of the crust in the most profitable manner. Nebraska, the corn-crowned state of the middle west, is four hundred and thirteen miles in length and two hundred and eight miles in width. It is called the black water state because of its muddy streams, only one of which is nav- igable. This is the Missouri River extending across the eastern side of Nebraska. The principal portion consists of high prairie lands which were originally covered with buffalo grass, but in the eastern part the blue grass and cultivated grasses have now taken its place, though the buffalo grass still covers large areas in the western part. Nebraska is considered a healthful state because of the elevation and the clear dry atmosphere. The leading industry is agriculture, the soil in the eastern part being adapted to vege- tation while the western section is rapidly developing under irrigation. The chief pro- ductions are corn, alfalfa, chicory and sugar beets. The soil and climate are especially 10 The Traveling Trio adapted to the culture of the latter, therefore the sugar beet industry has become one of importance. The industrial pursuit second to agricul- ture is stock-raising. Nebraska ranks among the prominent meat-producing states of the west, a large portion of it being especially adapted to grazing. Fruit-raising is also one of the chief indus- tries of the state. The apple yields the largest crop, although plums, peaches and smaller fruits are being raised with great success. Nebraska's minerals consist of limestone, sandstone, coal, potter's clay, salt, red free stone and some iron. Near Lincoln is a salt basin twelve miles in width and twenty-five miles in length. The manufactures of the state are tanned goods, soap, beet-sugar, tobacco products, earthen ware, spirituous liquors, clothing, woolen goods, machinery and agricultural implements. The number of periodicals published is six hundred and twenty-five; among these there are five hundred and thirty weeklies and forty dailies. In 1900 the state had a population of one million, sixty-eight thousand, five hundred The Traveling Trio 11 thirty-nine. This includes a colored popula- tion of nine thousand, seven hundred seventy- four or nine per cent of which six-thousand two hundred sixty-nine are negroes and three thousand and five hundred five are Indians. Of all the states in the Union Nebraska claims the lowest rate of illiteracy, which is certainly a credit to the state. In Nebraska City is situated the beautiful home of Sterling Morton who died in 1902. It will be remembered he was the originator of Arbor Day which is celebrated in the state on April 22. In every town and city the public high schools are maintained and the entire system of education is generously supported by state appropriations and taxation. Besides the state university, and two state normals, there are twelve other private colleges and normals and sixty public schools where normal training is given those who wish to teach. There are also adequate institutions for higher education and for benevolent, charit- able and correctional purposes. The state university takes the lead, it is situated in Lincoln, the capital city. The attendance aggregates one thousand six hun- 12 The Traveling Trio dred. Their library consists of forty-five thousand volumes. The university has the following depart- ments, — law, medicine, engineering, arts and sciences, agriculture and fine arts and an ad- equate system of courses. Among the many excellent educational institutions are the private and denomina- tional establishments, viz., University of Omaha; Belle vue ; Union College, College View; Cotner University, Bethany; Doane College, Crete; Creighton University, Omaha; Gates College, Neligh; Fairfield College, Fairfield; Wesleyan University, University Place ; York College, York. The Traveling Trio 13 OUR TRIP. |N the spring of 1905, while composing my last booklet of poems, if someone had told me that dainty brochure of twenty pages would prove a magic tapestry on which three girls would be borne safely half way across the continent, I would certainly have laughed at their prophecy. The idea that such an improbable thing could occur would have been very amusing, but within six months after completing "Crumbs of Thought" the unexpected happened, the seemingly impossible came to pass. This shows there are often great possibili- ties in small things, but most of us push blindly on in hopes of obtaining the largest and best, while the very prize we seek lies concealed in the small things around us. As great oaks from little acorns grow, so do great achievements frequently spring from our persevering, undaunted little efforts which seem of no importance. In our tour we had planned to see some- thing of Iowa and Minnesota, the states which 14 The Traveling Trio we had never entered on previous trips, taken in the interest of my first publications. Finally the new book came from the press, the sewing and packing were completed and the day set for our departure arrived. It was a beautiful afternoon on July 20th, when sister Ruth and I bade farewell to home and friends in Tecumseh, Nebraska. Before continuing, let me tell you some- thing about the place mentioned. It is a pretty little city of three thousand inhabitants, the county seat of Johnson county situated in the garden spot of the state with- in fifty miles of Lincoln, which is the capital city of Nebraska. Tecumseh has frequently been called the Forest City by travelers, because of the numer- ous trees to be seen along the streets and surrounding the many comfortable homes. It is undoubtedly one of the best little cities in Nebraska on account of its fine churches, excellent schools and the good class of people who reside there. The first place in which we stopped was Sterling, a thriving little town about fourteen miles from home; we spent several pleasant days there visiting friends whom we had not seen for some time. On the morning of the The Traveling Trio 15 fourth our friend Dera joined us in Sterl- ing, as expected, and the rest of the day was spent in canvassing for my book, with satisfac- tory results. The next morning we arose early in order to take the 4:30 train for Adams. After a hasty toilet by lamplight, and a brisk walk of six blocks through the quiet, sleeping town, we found the train was quite late; there was nothing to do after purchasing the tickets and checking the baggage, but wait in the depot, or stroll up and down the platform. I preferred the latter for to me it is grand to be out of doors at early dawn, when the world is wrapped in sweet tranquility. How inspir- ing to watch the eastern sky as it waxes pale and then blushes at the sun's approach, while feathered songsters awaken with dreamy twitter which suddenly bursts forth with ex- hilarating praises to their Maker. Finally there was a low rumble in the dis- tance, followed by a hoarse whistle and soon our belated train rolled slowly up to the station. About thirty minutes later we arrived in Adams in sufficient time to do a little plum- ing before breakfast was served. The manager of this hotel was a good Chris- 16 The Traveling Trio tian young man, whom we had met the pre- vious summer, hence our brief lay off in Adams was a pleasant one. A few days after our departure from home a great thought entered my mind which I mentioned to a friend when the girls were out of hearing. She smiled at the idea, and said, "It is a great undertaking but I believe you are equal to it." The matter dropped until we reached Adams, then the thought returned and I unfolded it to the girls. They liked the idea and were eager to undertake it. Thus it happened that our plans were altered, instead of going north- east as intended, we changed our course in the opposite direction. The Pacific Coast was our destination, a visit to relatives in Oregon was the idea, and we intended to pay all our expenses from the proceeds of my little book, which we expected to sell along our route. After I had selected the following motto, "Push on, do your best, and trust in God," we started west with very little money, but an nfinite supply of courage. Not wishing to give our parents unnecessary worry and fearing they might for some reason or other try to prevent the development of The Traveling Trio 17 our plan, we decided not to inform them of of our intended trip until we were at least out of Nebraska. The afternoon train bore our little party to Hickman, where we had quite a time finding a desirable place to stop for the night. Many of the private places we were referred to were full, while others could give us a room on the second floor, but as I objected to the ascent, being perfectly satisfied to remain on a lower plane where fire escapes were unnecessary, we were forced as the last resort, to a second class hotel whose boarders were mostly work- ing men, many of whom passed their spare time playing cards in the office, or using pro- fane language on the front porch. The hotel was not crowded and it happened we were given the same room occupied by us the previous summer. A lady friend called that evening and cordi- ally invited us to spend the following day with her. We gladly accepted the invitation although the next morning was dark and rainy. Our friend was a young married woman with two sweet children, who assisted their mother in entertaining us. 18 The Traveling Trio The girls managed to sell a few books be- tween showers and we boarded the afternoon train for Milford, with nought but pleasant memories of the day spent in Hickman. About forty minutes later, with much whistling and ringing of bell, our train entered the city of Lincoln, where we had twenty minutes in which to change cars. A number of passenger trains were lined up on both sides of the depot, but we had little trouble in pushing through the crowd to where our train stood. After a brief interval of time, we started on our way to Milford with the first and only ungentlemanly baggage-master we ever had the misfortune to travel with. At 6 :20 we reached Milford, or I should say, we arrived at the depot, which is a mile from the town. Ruth and I had been in Milford before, so inquiries pertaining to the town were unneces- sary. We followed a good broad walk, which led us for some distance through a pictur- esque woodsy place and across the bridge, which spanned the deep Blue River. In this quiet, secluded spot several persons had at different times been coolly requested The Traveling Trio 19 to hand over their valuables. Hence the bridge was adorned with placards warning the travelers against possible hold-ups. After leaving this spot, we passed many prett}^ homes and a large flour mill, before coming to the business part of the town. The hotel in which we sought a night's lodg- ing had no unoccupied bedroom on the first floor, but the kind, motherly landlady offered us the roomy parlor, which contained a com- fortable folding bed. Just as the prayer-meeting bells rang out through the twilight, we removed our hats, preparatory to a good night's rest; but be- tween the intense heat and the frequent trips to the water pitcher, our night proved a rest- less one. Milford is quite a pleasure resort during the summer months, because of the beautiful camping places and the fine fish to be caught in the river. We found the town a poor field for canvass- ing, the people' s excuse for not purchasing was, that the college students from Lincoln were continually canvassing the town threadbare; but we were inclined to think this was merely an excuse. If the students' first canvass had proved as successful as ours, they would cer- 20 The Traveling Trio tainly have considered it a waste of shoe- leather to make the second attempt. A humorous old gentleman boarding at our hotel, said, while speaking of someone he knew, "One consolation, they can't take their money with them when they leave this world, if they did, it would undoubtedly melt." We reached Seward the following eve after sun-down and were fortunate in securing the same comfortable room in the hotel we had the previous summer. Seward is a very pretty town, laid out on a level tract of land with fine business buildings, residences and shade trees. At noon we took the westbound train for York, a beautiful little city with many paved streets and up-to-date residences, to say nothing of the educational buildings and the business part of the town; it was the first place on our trip that Ruth and I had not previously visited. We obtained board with a private family within one block of the B. & M. depot. It was one of those quiet home-like rarities so pleasing to travelers. It was here that we met a remarkable young man, one who had been elected to weave a The Traveling Trio 21 pretty romance, in which our trio played an important part. He was also traveling westward in the in- terest of some eastern magazine, that required a variety of western views as well as interest- ing write-ups on the country. For the lack of a better name, this partic- ular young man will be called "Brown-Eyes," in the following chapters. During the afternoon, while canvassing for "Crumbs of Thought," Miss Dera met an old lady whose relatives live in Tecumseh; she became much interested in our trio, and cordially invited us to accept her hospitality for the night, which we did. The next day was Saturday and we planned to take the evening train for Harvard, twenty miles off our route, for the purpose of spend- ing Sunday with our married sister, who was not aware of our coming. About sun-down we started for the North- western depot some distance from our stop- ping place. While waiting for our train, which was a little late, we interested ourselves in watching the different classes of people who came and went. Among others were two little girls who chattered away in German, we supposed they 22 The Traveling Trio were unable to speak, or understand our tongue; hence Miss Dera for a new diversion spoke in Latin; to our great surprise and amusement she asked Miss Dera what she had said, in plain American. It was after nine o'clock when we arrived in Harvard and the town was as dark as a pocket, except for the light which streamed out from the business houses. The street lamps were more than conspicuous by their absence, but alas the poor sidewalks were not. We knew the way to our sister's home, but nevertheless we gladly accepted the night watch's kind offer to pilot us thither with his lantern. On arriving at the our destination we found the house in darkness, and there was no re- sponse to our vigorous raps. Our guide went to the nearest neighbor and found by inquiry, that our sister had gone to spend the night with a friend some distance away . We were at a loss what to do, but our friend advised us to remain where we were, while he went in quest of our sister. We consented to this, after giving him strict orders not to tell her who, or how many there were in our party; but man-like he couldn't keep a secret, and when she inquired The Traveling Trio 23 the number awaiting her he hesitated suspi- ciously and then said/ 'I was told not to tell, but there are three of them." Then our sister asked if one was an invalid, and when he an- swered in the affirmative, she started for home at a rapid pace. In darkness on the front porch we awaited her coming, as quiet as girls can be, when mosquitoes are presenting their bills before they are due, while at their very feet the grass was rustled by some inconsiderate little creature, which they tried to think was a harmless toad in quest of unwary bugs; but the knowledge that a number of reptiles had been killed in that very yard, gave them an awful idea that this unpleasant rustling might possibly be a dreadful snake. Finally we heard the rapid footsteps of the expected, and everything was forgotten in the laughter and explanations that followed. Our brother-in-law had gone to Trumbull to open a barber-shop, where our sister in- tended to join him in a few days. If the non-appearance of an important business letter had not detained her, she would have been gone when we reached Harvard. This little incident we consider another bit of good fortune sent to help us on our way, for the 24 The Traveling Trio belated letter was received the day after our arrival. The interior of the house was in a topsy- turvy condition, the carpets up and the cur- tains down, in fact nearly everything was packed for shipment, to the embarrassment of our sister, who regretted exceedingly that she was not in a position to entertain us satis- factorily. But we were in for a good time, and had it, in spite of the little inconveniences connected with the picnic fashion in which we spent the next three days. It was an ex- perience out of the ordinary, hence we enjoyed our visit. Our desire to attend church while in Har- vard was ungratified, not on account of in- clement weather, but because our Sunday go-to-meeting garm nts were securely fastened in the self-locking trunk and the keys were ditto, having been carelessly locked in the trunk before leaving Seward. Monday morning we obtained the services of a locksmith and after several patient at- tempts, he opened the trunk with nothing more or less than an insignificant wire hair- pin. How simple are many things after you have seen them accomplished. Wednesday forenoon our married sister and The Traveling Trio 25 Ruth drove overland with the household goods to Trumbull. After Miss Dera and I had taken dinner with a Harvard friend, we wended our way between showers to the depot. It was the only place on our route, where the station agent refused to give me a permit to ride in the baggage car, until I had signed an agreement not to hold the railroad company responsible if anything should happen. We had two tedious hours in Hastings wait- ing for our train, which proved to be an ac- commodation train with no baggage car at- tached. This placed us in a fine predicament, for my chair was much wider than the pas- senger coach door. For a few moments it looked as though it would be impossible for us to leave Hastings on that train, but we were determined not to spend the night there, when so near our des- tination. There seemed to be but one way out of the difficulty, and that was to ride on the platform of the rear coach. In desperate, irresistible tones, we suggested this to the train crew, who were kind, obliging men, and in a few moments I was safely on the platform with my chair securely fastened to the iron railing; Dera sat in the doorway 26 The Traveling Trio on a comfortable cushion, which the conductor removed from one of the seats. Thus we made our exit from the little city of Hastings. In this way we rolled over the shining steel rails with their borders of verdure and bloom; past fields where men paused in their work to shout and wave their hats; still on past farm houses and pastures, where cattle stopped grazing to look at the passing train. The sky was overcast and threatening and as we were neither ducks or Baptists, the pros- pects of rain in our unsheltered position might have dampened the spirits of some ; but it was against our principles to cry over spilled milk, or unspilled rain, so we rolled merrily on into the arms of Trumbull. After the trainmen had lifted me from the car they carried my chair across the tracks and placed me safely on terra firma, where my sister awaited us. Trumbull is nothing more than a village, but is inhabited by a good class of Christian people, which balances the deficiency. It is not the quantity but the quality that counts in the long run. On Thursday A. M., we took the train for Giltner, where I had the pleasure of meeting The Traveling Trio 27 the I. S. S. president with whom I had corre- sponded for some time. In the afternoon she accompanied us to the depot, where we con- versed until our train arrived. It was the same mixed affair minus a bag- gage car, hence we were obliged to take another open air ride which ended in Aurora, where we were once more on the main line. That evening there was an interesting dis- cussion on temperance, in front of the hotel where we stopped. A commercial man and our wide-awake trio were on the right side, but the landlord talked for the evil of the nation, and a friend sitting near meekly echoed all that he said. He was a man who seldom unfolds an opinion of his own, when it is more convenient to do otherwise. One of those persons who fre- quently remind us of a chameleon, because they continually reflect the sentiment of the people with whom they come in contact. The gentleman on our side had many a good thought, which he did not hesitate to express in defense of the right. It is hardly necessary to say that we came out victorious in the argument, to the disappointment of the landlord and his echo. Late the next evening we disembarked in 28 The Traveling Trio the little village of Cairo. It was extremely dark and once more we had to depend on the variable light which shown from the build- ings, to guide us over the uncertain walks. Once more we regretted having neglected to insure our lives before leaving home. For about two blocks we followed a party of gay young people, who had been to the depot to see the greatest event of the evening, the arrival of the westbound train. Then we came to a standstill before an unsurmountable difficulty in the walk, but with the kind assis- tance of several young men I was safely lifted to the ascent and a few steps farther brought us to the Commercial Hotel, where the land- lady gave up her own room in order to accom- modate us. While making preparations to leave our room the next morning, we were started by a scream from Ruth, who began a continuous jig in the unoccupied side of the room, while she brushed frantically at her neck as though trying to remove some offensive object, which we failed to perceive. She was naturally a calm, sensible girl, hence we were simply astounded as well as amused at her strange conduct. Before our efforts to solve the mystery had The Traveling Trio 29 been successful, the landlady and a number of others came to learn the cause of such a dis- turbance. By that time the war dance had ceased and Ruth was able to satisfy our curi- osity as to the cause of her great disturbance, which lay kicking in the corner. On close inspection it turned out to be a large, extraordinary bug, with a black, dot- ted, yellow body about an inch and a half in length, six long legs and two fierce looking pincers, making up the horrible looking in- truder, which no one cared to have crawling toward their neck. Those who beheld the unwelcome visitor had never seen anything like it before. For lack of a better conclusion, and because of the bug's fondness for girls, we decided it was undoubtedly a great grandson of the Hobson notorious kissing bug. It took but a few hours to canvass Cairo, for it contained but two hundred inhabitants; but like the little town of Trumbull it pos- sessed a friendly class of people whom one likes to come in contact with, for they make the stranger feel that he is not in a far coun- try. About dusk we went to the depot regardless of the rising cloud in whose dark depths 30 The Traveling Trio lightning flashed and thunder rolled in the most threatening manner. The train was late as usual, hence the storm was the first to arrive but the time spent in waiting was not monotonous as one might suppose. In spite of the warring elements, the usual crowd of mixed people gathered in the little two-by-four depot to welcome the westbound train. Between the interesting study of human nature and the continued examination of self after each flash of lightning to see if we remained unstruck, the time passed quite rapidly. Finally our train arrived and by the kind assistance of two young men, we made our way through the darkness and mud to the baggage car, where we had the pleasure of waiting in the storm until the baggage was arranged within. One of our escorts tried to hold a parasol over me, but the rain succeeded in wetting my outer garments before we were safely in the car. It was about midnight when we reached Ravenna and the clouds were still leaking. Our trio at once entered the depot, where we intended to remain until the train left before The Traveling Trio 31 making inquiries regarding a hotel. We were immediately followed by a kind, never-to-be- forgotten gentleman, who had arrived on our train. He came to inform us that he regretted exceedingly that it was impossible for him to assist us in finding a hotel for the night, as he was to leave on the out-going train, which would leave in a few moments. We thanked him kindly and he turned away, but at the door he stopped to speak with a gentleman who afterwards proved to be a resident of Ravenna, and he immediately offered to guide us to a convenient hotel. Thanks to the considerate stranger, who left the dry cozy car in hopes of serving our trio. If people of his kind were more numer- ous in this world, we would not have so much reason to think that the milk of human kindness is often skimmed or diluted by selfishness. After two unprofitable days spent in Ravenna, we took our departure on the Monday evening train, which happened to be on time as well as on the track. It was after midnight when our fifty mile ride landed us in Broken Bow. A business man who happened to be at the depot, acted as our good pilot from one crowded hotel to 32 The Traveling Trio another; our search for a lodging place re- minded one of the game "Pussy wants a corner." Finally we were offered a folding bed in the parlor of the Grand Central Hotel, whose many unlocked doors made it anything but pleasant or private. It is needless to say we accepted it, glad of a comfortable place to close our weary eyes. Early in the morning I was awakened by some one passing through the room from the office to the dining room. There was appar- ently no way to prevent the intrusion, which proved extremely unpleasant as well as laugh- able, when the girls began to attire. While all was quiet they dressed rapidly with eyes and ears alert, as soon as footsteps announced the approach of some intruder they suddenly dived beneath the coverlets and tranquility reigned until the individual had passed through the opposite side of our room. Thus it was with great difficulty that we were finally prepared for breakfast and the bright new day. During our journey westward, to the amuse- ment of our party, I had my chair called every conceivable name that mortal tongue, through thoughtlessness or ignorance, could con- The Traveling Trio 33 veniently pronounce, from a cart to an automobile. As the violinist is particular in regard to having his instrument called a violin instead of a fiddle so I am desirous of having my con- veyance called a rolling chair. But having become accustomed to give instructions on this subject, I was not surprised when the hardware man in Broken Bow innocently re- ferred to my chair as a baby carriage. After I had politely informed him of his error, the bystanders laughed and he good heartedly agreed to remember the fact so as not to blunder when we passed that way again. That night we retired early in a cool, pleas- ant bedroom without fear of being disturbed. Our intention was to leave Broken Bow be- fore breakfast, but on arising we learned that our train was nearly two hours late; this en- abled us to partake of the morning meal, after which the girls went to a nearby store while I leisurely sipped a second cup of coffee. It lacked thirty minutes till train time when we emerged from our room ready to start for the depot: it was then that everyone was thrown into confusion by a phone from the 34 The Traveling Trio station agent announcing the approach of the train, which had evidently made up time. The landlord told the porter to hold the train for us if possible and then the bus hurriedly departed with the passengers. Of course we hurried, but our efforts to reach the depot in time were unavailing. The train men were impatient because of the time they had already lost and they would not hold the train a moment for anyone, hence we had nothing to do but spend another day in Broken Bow, having missed the train by a cup of coffee, I laughingly declared to the girls, for if I had not drunk the second cup we might have caught the train. On the eve previous to our little disappoint- ment, the Wesleyan quartet gave a musical entertainment in Broken Bow. Shortly after our return to the hotel on that particular fore- noon, they marched into the parlor and sang a beautiful patriotic selection for my benefit, while the bus waited to take them to the east- bound train. The musical treat was greatly enjoyed by the writer as well as by others who happened to be within hearing distance. Our attempt to move westward the next morning proved successful and we left Broken The Traveling Trio 35 Bow with only the best impressions of its people. Our two days sojourn at the Grand Central Hotel will ever be clothed with pleasant mem- ories, thanks to the kind proprietor and his lovely wife, who took a special interest in the traveling trio. The western part of Nebraska is much dif- ferent from the eastern side with its verdant landscape and rich, productive soil. Instead of green pastures, yielding fruit orchards and fields of waving grain, so numerous in the vicinity of our home, one beholds in western Nebraska a sun baked territory where sun- flowers and buffalo grass prevail, the lack of sufficient rain making it almost impossible for vegetation to grow in the dry, sandy soil, without irrigation. Trees and green grass are rarities and fruit is more so. When we were fortunate enough to obtain fruit that was not green, or on the verge of decay, it had too much of a money flavor to be thoroughly enjoyed. The main productions are horses, cattle and fleas, all of whch thrive and grow fat on the buffalo grass, though the dry curly blades seemed void of nutrition. Another produc- tion which in recent years has become profit- 36 The Traveling Trio able is alfalfa, whose rapid growth enables the farmers to cut several crops during the sum- mer; when everything else dries up beneath the sun's scorching rays, the alfalfa fields retain their greenness. It is thought to be a success on account of the long roots which find moisture when noth- ing else can reach it. One year an alfalfa root measuring thirty feet in length was on exhibition at the Furnas County Fair. This makes the above statement seem probable. Our next stop was in a little village whose name I will not mention, for its sandy heart contained a number of peculiar people who seemed to think we were not what we claimed to be. Their attitude toward us was hard to analyze, but one would fancy they were in fear of their precious little village being spir- ited away before their vision; or still worse, of being themselves mysteriously swallowed up soul and body. We were told by certain parties who spoke from experience, having but recently located in the village, that the inhabitants look on every newcomer with suspicion, and if a stranger attempts to settle in their midst they will do their uttermost to push or freeze him out. The Traveling Trio 37 We had no desire to cultivate the acquaint- ance of such cool people, although the weather was extremely warm, so we made prepara- tions to leave on the next train. After purchasing tickets and checking our baggage, the station agent had the courage to inform us that our next stopping place was much worse than the village we were leaving, but we felt this to be an impossibility. When our much desired train pulled in our hopes immediately pulled out, for the train was a horrid old freight with only a caboose for passengers. The trainmen were very kind and did everything possible to fix a way for our departure, but the caboose door was too narrow for my chair and the platform was of course not wide enough. We then suggested that we make the short trip to the next town in the freight car where the baggage was placed. At that time anything was preferable to spending a night in that irksome little village. Then too, the novelty of riding in the freight car was one we had never had the opportunity of enjoying, or enduring, but we learned that the unclean condition of the car made it any- thing but pleasant for passengers, so we simply had to lay over another day. 38 The Traveling Trio As the afternoon shadows were pointing toward the hour of supper time, three crest- fallen girls might have been seen meandering up the business street of — . The little boarding house where we called on our arrival was full. There was only one other in town, a new structure whose proprie- tor had just moved in, we were informed. The fresh paint and curtainless windows confirmed this statement and we fancied they were not prepared to receive boarders, but as a last resort we called to make inquiries. The manager was a big-hearted German and his pleasant wife was a motherly woman, who believed in doing unto others as she would be done by. They soon found room for us and made our trio feel quite welcome, in spite of the disarranged house with its carpetless floors and curtainless windows. After a wholesome supper and a pleasant evening, we retired, but not to a bedroom as you may suppose ; they had no rooms prepared for lodgers, but the landlady made a comfort- able bed in a corner of the front hall, which served as our sleeping apartment. Newspapers substituted for curtains and as the door was minus a lock, I took the place of key and door keeper by sleeping with my The Traveling Trio 39 chair against it. In this position I would easily have awakened if anyone had" ventured to gain an entrance. The next forenoon we bade our new friends farewell and departed for the little town with its uncomplimentary reputation. When we arrived at our destination the owner of the merry brown eyes descended from the smoker and came to our assistance. After I was safely lifted from the baggage car to the platform, he quickly returned to the smoker and was soon borne away by the re- treating train. This time our efforts to secure board and lodging in a private family were successful, which was gratifying to us; one would evi- dently grow weary of constant hotel life where it is always necessary to face menus and foot bills. We have frequently heard that variety is the spice of life and most of us are obliged to admit the fact sooner or later, but there is no one who realizes it more than the person who spends three months traveling among new scenes and faces, during which time he enters sixty-one cities, towns and mining villages, where he has the opportunity to study every conceivable character, from the lamb to the 40 The Traveling Trio black sheep. One day in a first class hotel with the best accommodations and the next day in a second class boarding house, where he eats sparingly of the questionable food before him, wondering meanwhile how many mouths have sampled the same dish he is trying to dispose of. The hash and pudding are pushed aside as doomed, they are too sug- gestive of the leavings from his predecessor's plate to be appetizing, so he leaves them un- touched for the benefit of the next unwary victim. This person in question can say with genuine enthusiasm, " Variety is the spice of life." It is true some of the varieties are not alto- gether pleasing to our ease-loving natures, but it takes the bitter as well as the sweet to season the ingredients of life and make our sojourn in this old world interesting and instructive. It did not take our trio long to find Anselmo all that it had been represented not to be, a thriving little town where the spirit of friend- liness prevailed. The day was spent pleasantly, and while the rosy flush of day was fading from the margin of the west, we sallied forth to see the town and enjoy the balmy evening air. The Traveling Trio 41 We soon discovered Anselmo, like many other towns, had room for improvements as well as boards in the few sidewalks it pos- sessed, but as this was the only displeasing feature of the town we passed over the ques- tionable crossings, ascended the ascents and descended the descents in the walk with only a few complaints framed in good humor. Our twilight ramble was taken in sections because of the many times we were stopped by people who desired "Crumbs of Thought/ ' They had heard of the book through friends who purchased copies during the day. As we were preparing to retire, several gentlemen came to the house for books as it would be impossible for them to call on the morrow. "Crumbs of Thought" went like hot cakes in the little town mentioned, where one would suppose poetry would fail to be appreciated. Next morning Dera and I bade farewell to the kind people with whom we had stayed and took the train for Thedford, where we expected to make good use of the cool, cloudy day, which happened to be Saturday, but as our train was leaving the station we saw on the platform, to our dismay, the trunk which con- tained our working material, the books. They 42 The Traveling Trio had failed to put our baggage on board, hence the last day of the week was spent in idleness and regret. After we had engaged a room at the pleasant hotel there was nothing to do but wait for the evening train, which would bring Ruth and our baggage from Anselmo. She had remained there with a girl friend who was to assist her in taking a few more book orders. Shortly after our arrival we learned to my great surprise that a gentleman boarding at the hotel was the brother of a friend of mine. He was a congenial old bachelor who liked to joke as well as the next one. During our long wait for the belated train, which did not arrive until after midnight, he entertained us with an interesting account of the pranks he and his fellow ranchmen con- tinually played on one another. One of the ranchmen, whom we will call Maxy for the lack of a better substitute, came to town that evening to see his lady love, the landlord's daughter. She entertained him in their cottage near the hotel and he tied his team to the front fence, which proved too much of a temptation for our bachelor friend, Mr. W. While they were spooning in the dimly The Traveling Trio 43 lighted parlor, Mr. W. cautiously untied the horses and climbed into the buggy. With great care he drove as silently as possible to an out-of-the-way neighborhood where he secreted the team in an unoccupied barn. When this was accomplished he returned to the hotel as delighted as a boy, over the fun which was sure to ensue. About midnight Maxy appeared on the scene, as expected. Having been unable to find his team and judging from similar experi- ences of the past, he had a sneaking idea that Mr. W. was the abductor, but so thoroughly did that gentleman play the role of innocence, that Maxy was obliged to make his exit no wiser then when he came. Finally the train's shrill whistle pierced the stormy darkness and Dera accompanied by Mr. W. made her way toward the depot. Shortly after their departure the parlor lamp proceeded to break the sflence in an un appreciated solo. It began with a series of puffing sounds as though trying to find the right k y, : hen from the depth of its oily hroat there issued a doleful hum. It was anything but soothing to the nerves. Little by little it arose until the hum was a full grown threat of destruction. 44 The Traveling Trio This unpleasant strain and the irregular snore of a commercial man were the only sounds which broke the stillness. For a few moments I was uncertain as to what I should do. There was no one within calling distance, except the sleeping stranger. Should I try to awaken him immediately or should I wait until the lamp had done its worst? If I should succeed in arousing the sleeper and he would take the necessary time to dress, the lamp would certainly explode before he arrived on the scene ; but what if he should respond to the call for assistance with- out donning his daily attire. The mere pos- sibility of such an embarrassing situation was enough; I suddenly concluded it would be wise to remain silent and watch the lamp's proceedings. The annoying sound continued until the room took on a ghostly aspect and the dusky shadows crept from their lair to investigate. In anxious suspense I awaited the crisis, hoping if the thing was so inconsiderate as to blow up, that I should remain down for I had no desire to ascend just then. Finally without a spark of warning the light vanished. In retrospection this incident is is laughable, but at the time it was extremely The Traveling Trio 45 serious, therefore when the light went out, I was just a little relieved to find myself un- singed and unpunctured in nothing worse than darkness. While I quieted my nerves and tried to regain self composure the see-sawing snore continued to drift through the key-hole and I was exceedingly glad that the sleeper had not been disturbed. 46 The Traveling Trio A DAY ON THE RANCH. IjjjjIljHE morning dawned cool and tran- PXH quil beneath the smiling sky. When breakfast was over we made prepara- tions for the trip to Maxy's ranch as planned the night before. At an early hour Mr. W. drove up to the hotel with the stage, in which my chair was soon securely fastened; after Mr. W. had sandwiched himself between the girls in the seat, we started on our fifteen mile ride over a winding trail. In high spirits we rolled along over hills, through draws, and across stretches of prairie land, where herds of fattening cattle grazed in their extensive pastures. Here and there could be seen a lonely look- ing homestead or a prospering ranch on the somber landscape. At one time Mr. W. pointed out the spot where two human beings had been carelessly interred, their skeletons being extracted from the mound in recent years; one was identified as a white man and the other an Indian, The Traveling Trio 47 because of the high bones and the color of his frame, the bones of the white man being much lighter in hue than those of the Indian. Before reaching our destination we met a buggy containing the cook and several other members of the Maxy ranch. This looked as though we would be minus a dinner as well as a welcome on our arrival. Mr. W. had neglected to phone our decision before starting, as suggested by Maxy the night previous. Right here let me mention that the mode of communication between town and ranch was over a wire run along the top of the pasture fence. In places the route over which we traveled was uncomfortably elevated terrace fashion, therefore the stage occasionally poised on edge as though preparing to loop the loop or turn a somersault down the hill. If the reader is a girl or a woman she will readily conceive what our feelings were at such times, but the intervals of alarm were brief so we lacked the time in which to fully express our fear. Finally we reached the ranch, which was as quiet as the day, but the appearance of Maxy on the scene assured us that the place was not entirely deserted. 48 The Traveling Trio In a few moments we were escorted to the house by our gentlemen friends. After pass- ing through what we recognized as the kitchen they ushered us into a large room which served as sitting room and dining room. Here they left us to inspect and discuss things in general while they attended to the team. A party of flies buzzed a noisy welcome on the screenless window, which had been raised to admit the fresh air regardless of the domes- tic pests. The long sash curtains swayed to and fro in the breeze, but not white ones as you may suppose. In the days of their youth they had evidently been manufactured from red figured, black calico, but from frequent contacts with the wash tub and exposure to sun they had become a rusty hue with figures of a questionable pink. The portierres on the double door, between this and an adjoining room, were made of the same material. The floor was bare but clean, while the walls were adorned with pictures cut from maga- zines, a strip of blackboard which Maxy used in teaching the children of the cook, and sev- eral coats and sombreros belonging to some of the cowboys. The articles of furniture in the room were The Traveling Trio 49 firm and substantial. A long table on which the meals were served, a small table strewn with books and papers and a number of cane- bottomed chairs, some of which had been carefully rebottomed with strips of leather. By the time we had made an optical survey of the room and had taken careful note of its humble furnishings, our friends reappeared on the scene. As the cook was absent Maxy acted as her substitute, while Mr. W. played the part of cookee. The proffered help of our trio was promptly rejected; hence we watched with interest the proceedings in the kitchen, as we conversed through the open door. Having had some experience in the art of cooking our host and his assistant knew how to prepare a good meal. True, the spring chicken which Maxy in- tended to have for dinner was conspicuous by its absence, because the inconsiderate fowl preferred flying to frying. But nevertheless we had a good variety of meat despite the fact it was a portion of a four-legged spring chicken. When the meal had been set forth on the long table covered with a white oilcloth, it 50 The Traveling Trio mattered not if the coffee cups were tin, the silverware steel and the napkins invisible. I was provided with a spacious towel which served beautifully as a napkin. Then our merry band of five attacked the meal with keen appetites, and the diminished results were sufficient to prove our appreciation of the same. During the repast the gentlemen enter- tained us with amusing anecdotes from their eventful lives. We learned much of interest concerning the ranch, but as the writer is a woman she failed to remember the facts and figures con- nected with the live stock. Of course there were a great number of cattle, horses, hogs and sheep on the place, but alas the interests were insufficient to im- press the information on my mind. In fancy I hear some gentleman reader say, "Just like a woman, you couldn't expect any- thing else." Many times while enroute west, we heard someone remark that certain individuals be- haved s though they were locoed. At first we were unable to understand the unusual phrase, but our ranch friends enlight- ened us on the subject. It seems that loco The Traveling Trio 51 is a harmless looking plant with blue flowers. It grows wild in the western states and it is very injurious to cattle and horses. Whenever the animals chance to eat loco they are seized with attacks of insanity. Dur- ing this period we were told their antics were most terrible to witness. After the evening meal had been disposed of in the usual way, the gentlemen proceeded to feed and water their stock. When this had been accomplished the stage was again brought forth and we were soon on our fifteen mile ride to Thedford. It was a tranquil August night bathed in moonlight splendor, hence we thoroughly enjo}^ed the return trip. Maxy accompanied us to town, occupying a portion of the limited seat, in order that Ruth might have the pleas- ure of riding his favorite pony to Thedford. The next two stops on our route wrought nothing of interest, therefore I will pass them by. The next place of interest on our western trip was Alliance, Nebraska, a thriving rail- road town. But it had one displeasing feat- ure which we considered a detriment to the community. There were not only two or three saloons in 52 The Traveling Trio the place but a number of the alluring dens of evil made themselves conspicuous on the business street. It was indeed an excellent field for temper- ance workers, if they had the courage to locate there. Short ly after our arrival we engaged board and lodging in what seemed to be a quiet hotel, conducted by a somber maiden lady on a side street. When our grips had been disposed of in the room assigned to us, Ruth and I proceeded to make ourselves ready for supper, while Dera went in quest of the postofnce. As Alliance was one of our mail points, we received quite a number of letters from home and friends. There was also a box of books awaiting us at the express office, shipped there by my publisher as requested. The Traveling Trio 53 OUR INTRODUCTION TO DIAMOND DICK. [URING the next day we chanced to meet one of the boarders, a peculiar man, who told us in a confidential manner that he was the genuine Dia- mond Dick of whom you readers have undoubt- edly heard. After this incredible announce- ment we were told of an extraordinary horse- back ride he had once taken. The trip was of surprising length and he made it much quicker than any other man could have done without changing horses. We soon concluded that he was partly in- sane, or a little the worse for drink; therefore we withdrew from his presence as soon as possible. After supper our trio adjourned to the parlor where some time was spent conversing with a lady traveler. Soon we were dis- turbed by a great commotion overhead, which caused the excited household to gather at the foot of the stairs. Diamond Dick had gone to his room but not to rest, it was evident, from the disturb- 54 The Traveling Trio ance on the second floor. In his crazed con- dition he fancied he was on the train with a band of trained dogs. They were to show in Alliance that night, but the conductor re- fused to stop the train, hence the distressed manager pleaded and wailed in a most des- perate manner. After a time his mood changed, grief gave way to activity which threatened immediate destruction to the contents of the room. He seemed to be having trouble with his dogs, for presently he appeared in the hall above drag- ging a portion of his baggage, which he consid- ered one of his dogs. After many command- ing remarks and an exhibition of violence, the imaginary animal was returned to the room. Then we were aware that Diamond Dick had made his way through the window to the roof of the porch where he whistled and called loudly to his dogs. While this was transpiring the landlady and her excited boarders were consulting one another in the hall below. The former ob- jected to calling the police, so we waited in dire suspense not knowing whether Diamond Dick would fall off the porch and break his neck, or whether he would descend the stairs in quest of our company. Fortunately for The Traveling Trio 55 the welfare of our party Diamond Dick did neither of the things we feared he might. After an interval of anxious suspense one of the gentleman boarders volunteered to pour oil on the troubled waters by ascending the stairs in behalf of our company. He had on previous occasions been able to quiet Diamond Dick, when excited by drink. There- fore we were not greatly surprised when the tumult subsided. From the conversation on the second floor we knew the manager of the dog show had been convinced of his arrival in Alliance. A little later the intoxicated man was persuaded to retire, but the kindly boarder occupied the same room in case his patient should require someone's attention during the night. Dur- ing the commotion above all was quiet below. Now it was vice versa, everyone had some remark to make or opinion to offer. It was some time before the house regained suf- ficient composure to guarantee sleep. When we girls sought our rooms it was with intensified abhorrence of strong drink. The fact that a strong, educated man should make such a sad failure in the prime of life, was something terrible. He was some mother's son who started out 56 The Traveling Trio with unlimited possibilities. But alas! He had fallen by the way because the saloons of our nation have license to legally kill. The next day being Saturday we took the train for Hemingford, a quiet little village on the rolling prairie. Here we succeeded in obtaining a room in a private family, where we spent two uneventful days in the most pleasant manner. Our next and last stop in Nebraska was Crawford, situated in the northwestern part of the state not far from the Dakota line. It was a fair sized town, one third of whose popu- lation was colored people. A few miles dis- tant was Fort Robinson where several hun- dred soldiers were then stationed. We girls would have visited the fort but our brief so- journ in Crawford made it impossible. We were once more fortunate in obtaining a furnished room in a pleasant home. The lady's husband had gone to Washington on business, hence she appeared to be glad of our company. While in Crawford our new friend told us two legends, which I will repeat, with a hope that they will prove interesting to someone. The Traveling Trio 57 THE LEGENDS. fBOUT four miles east of the town men- r $j$Sb tioned was Crow Butte, six hundred |H feet in height. SHE Many years ago the Sioux and Crow Indians had a battle at the foot of this hill, in which the Sioux were defeated through the stratagem of the Crows . During a war dance of the Sioux which they were having in honor of their supposed victory, the Crows who were corralled in the crescent shaped range of rocks at the Butte summit, were by no means idle. After killing a number of their ponies they skinned the animals and cut the hides in strips. By fastening these together they succeeded in sliding to the ground without detection. One old Indian remained to keep the camp fires burning in order to deceive their enemy. After the Crows reached the ground they cap- tured the Sioux ponies and soon made their escape to the badlands. The faithful old Crow who kept his post on the summit was cruelly put to death on the following day. The other legend is connected with Lover's 58 The Traveling Trio Leap which stands between Crawford and Fort Robinson. It is also six hundred feet high. Years ago there was a heartless Indian maiden who had two ardent lovers. She was apparently fond of both, but would marry neither until she had put an end to one of them. While roaming over the prairies one day she said to her sweethearts who accompanied her, that the one who loved her most would prove his affection by jumping from the cliff. One of them accepted her challenge and met his death after which the dusky maid became the bride of the other. Thus ends the legend. A short distance from Crawford is a deep cut one hundred and two feet in depth. Through this the trains daily pass to and from the west. A few weeks previous to our arrival in that vicinity, there was a wreck near the cut, but fortunately no lives were lost, al- though much damage was done. In connection with this we were told of an incident which was one of the most pathetic ever brought before our notice. An invalid lady and her three daughters The Traveling Trio 59 were journeying from Texas to Spokane, Washington, where the husband awaited his family. When they reached the western part of Ne- braska the altitude became too high for the mother, who was subject to heart trouble. All night prior to the wreck the lady pas- sengers worked with the unfortunate woman, but their efforts were in vain. Before dawn she passed away leaving her grief-stricken daughters among strangers far from their father, who undoubtedly looked forward in joyful expectancy to their coming. The youngest of the girls was ten and the eldest was yet in her teens. When the morning wreck prevented further progress by rail a dispatch was sent to Craw- ford for an undertaker and carriages. In this way the sad party was conveyed to town where sympathetic people did all in their power to help and console the bereaved girls. A telegram was sent to their father, but on account of the operator strike beyond Billings the message was several days in reaching its destination. As soon as an answer reached Crawford, the girls continued their journey, taking with them all that was earthly of their mother. 60 The Traveling Trio How bright the beginning of their trip and how exceedingly desolate the end. While canvassing in Crawford Miss Dera was somewhat surprised to meet "Brown- Eyes" on the street. He had stopped there to obtain a few choice views and write-ups for the eastern magazine. During their brief interview he asked for permission to call on our trio while in town. Dera gave her consent and that evening he made his appearance at our boarding place. Our new friend had traveled extensively and being an excellent conversationalist he proved a most interesting companion. Shortly before his departure we learned to the great surprise of all concerned that "Brown- Eyes" was well acquainted with our relatives residing in the east. This unexpected dis- covery only served to make the circle of friendship a little stronger. Shortly after we changed our course west- ward, while yet in Nebraska, I had a beautiful vision. It lasted but an instant, yet that brief interval of time was sufficient to assure the writer of guidance and protection through- out the prospective trip. Against the somber background of prairie land I saw a passenger train gliding over the The Traveling Trio 61 shining rails at a rapid speed, while a short distance before the engine were two angelic figures. Hand in hand they seemed to float through the air with their eyes on the track ahead. A similar vision came to me about the time we entered the mountainous region of Mon- tana. The background was a mountain, the side of which a passenger w T as slowly ascending, while the same white robed guides preceded the train as before. These visions were wholly unexpected as well as mysterious. The forepart of our journey, extending from the southeast to the northwest corner of the state has now been recorded. We stopped in twenty-one towns and were thirty-three days in covering the distance, which is about four hundred and seventy miles. 62 The Traveling Trio SOUTH DAKOTA AND WYOMING. |N Wednesday, August 23d we crossed the Nebraska line and entered South Dakota. Our only stop in this state was Edgemont. It is quite a trading point situated on the main B. & M. road with the picturesque background of the foothills. While here we had another interesting inter- view with "Brown-Eyes" who informed us of his prospective side trip among the Black Hills. This would occupy the greater portion of a week so it would be some time before he would reappear on the western route. As passengers are not allowed in the baggage car without a permit from headquarters, I generally managed to obtain one before start- ing on a trip. Quite frequently the conductors make no inquiries regarding a permit, but just as sure as we fail to have one, some inconsiderate ticket puncher asks in his important manner for that insignificant bit of paper. Such was the conductor who accompanied us from Crawford to Edgemont. As we were The Traveling Trio 63 about to be assisted in the car he appeared on the scene with his unpleasant inquiry, "Have you a permit?" We assured him of the fact by presenting the same. He unfolded the paper and stood with clouded brow reading the words thereon. This did not satisfy the ill-natured crank for he next inquired, "Have you transportation?" We answered in the affirmative after which the men helped us aboard the awaiting train. We were afterward told by one of the train crew, who spoke from experience, that this spicy conductor would not have believed his own grandmother. A few days previous to our appearance he had compelled a lady with two children to leave the train. It seems she w r as unable to furnish the transportation for both of the little ones, hence the ungentlemanly treat- ment of the conductor, whom we fortunately left at Edgemont. On the day after our arrival we again moved westward, but before continuing, let me men- tion the comical incident which occurred at the depot as we were preparing to board the train. Another man was needed to lift me in the baggage car, so a bashful young man standing 64 The Traveling Trio near was asked to assist. He responded will- ingly, but the cautious way in which he took hold of my chair was amusing. The conductor was somewhat impatient for he said to the youth, "Now take hold, don't be afraid. " The writer was greatly amused, therefore I added in the most assuring voice, "No, I will not bite." This remark brought laughter from the by- standers and it also had the desired effect on the young man. He grasped my chair with vigor and I was safely landed in the baggage car. Our trio next visited the little town of New- castle, Wyoming. Here we succeeded in obtaining a room furnished for light house- keeping. The apartment was spacious and the accommodations first class. Girls like we purchased the eatables our fickle appetites craved, which usually consisted of nicknacks. The people of this place advised me to raise the price of my book, which sold for thirty cents in Nebraska. Because of the advanced prices always found in the west I did as they advised, and the sales were just as numerous. After spending a day both pleasant and profitable in Newcastle, we started for Gillette. The Traveling Trio 65 Shortly before leaving the station a gentle- man passing the baggage car coolly asked Miss Dera if she knew what she was sitting on. The girl arose in order to inspect her seat, when lo and behold, to our great dismay we found that she had been sitting on a coffin box. From the undertaker's certificate we learned the corpse was that of a man who was being shipped to Washington. At first we were horrified by the unexpected discovery. The fact that it was night did not serve to brighten the situation. It so happened the baggage-master spent part of his time in the next car, which left us alone with our silent companion. During these intervals the gloom became a trifle more dense, and strange to say our surroundings seemed a little uncanny, but before the three hours' ride came to a close we had regained composure sufficient to permit a peaceful nap. It was about midnight when we reached Gillette so we kept the baggage car experience a secret until morning lest Ruth who occupied the coach in blissful ignorance of our travel- ing companion, should become nervous over the incident told at bedtime. 66 The Traveling Trio This was the first, but not the last time we were obliged to journey with those whose souls had passed to the great beyond. Gillette is mainly a shipping point for the benefit of the ranchmen in that vicinity. Before reaching the rough little village on the barren plains, we were told the town was a second Paris but our charitable trio fancied the place was not as bad as represented. However, we had cause to think there was more truth than fiction in the statement by the close of our day in Gillette. During the afternoon Miss Dera, who had been canvassing, returned to the hotel with unpleasant news. The saloon keeper who had heard of our mission in town, evidently thought to make our visit a profit to himself, therefore he had the boldness to interview our friend on the street. In a few polished words he unfolded the evil scheme thinking no doubt that it would be favorably received. As it happened to be the stockmen's ship- ping day, a great number of cowboys and ranchmen were expected in town. On such occasions Gillette was painted red, nothing remained dry in the village except the sun baked terra firma on which it reposed. The Traveling Trio 67 Hence the saloon keeper expected to reap the usual harvest that night from his generous patrons. He wished Miss Dera to give him a supply of books which he would sell in connection with his goods, a copy of poems with every bottle of liquor. For this combination the schemer intended to ask a good price so he as well as the writer would net a handsome sum. After listening to the suggestion Miss Dera said she thought I would not approve of the plan, so she would not hand him the books until she had consulted me. Perhaps the reader has already guessed the writer's decision which was given at once without a moment for consideration. It is hardly necessary to say I was perfectly astounded, and that I was indignant was put- ting it mildly. The very thought of going into partnership with such a man and placing my book of sacred poems in that den of degradation, where they would be sold with the nation's evil, was simply appalling. The idea of him thinking for a moment that we would stoop to his level was wholly pre- posterous. The proposition was received as 68 The Traveling Trio an insult and the thoughts which passed through the writer's mind were anything but complimentary to their subject. As the afternoon receded the cowboys began to make their appearance in town. The first place visited on their arrival was the saloon, situated within sight of the hotel. When supper had been disposed of in the usual way, our trio wended their way through the gathering shadows to the depot prepara- tory to taking the westbound train, which was late as of yore. A number of cowboys came and went while we waited. They were well-behaved fellows, those bronze statues of the plains, so blest by heaven's pure air and sunshine. Their picturesque attire was set off by the notorious sombrero, red neckerchief and spurs. In fancy the latter jingled the merry air of "Cheyenne," as their owners strode about the platform. A little later while we were enjoying the beauties of the night in front of the station, a well dressed man sauntered leisurely in our direction. I refrain the name of gentleman in connection with him, for such he was not. The world might have called him handsome, but the striking combination of black hair, The Traveling Trio 69 eyes and pink cheeks won no admiration from the writer. As soon as the stranger appeared on the scene I had the impression it was the saloon keeper, which was correct. Miss Dera was sitting near me, and it was before her the annoyance paused. I felt he had no good intentions, therefore close attention was paid to his remarks, spoken in a guarded voice. With words of flattery he tried to induce our friend to take a walk, but of course she refused to accompany him. Having failed in this he inquired if we were going away that night. When informed that we were, he feigned surprise, after which he began talking of the excellent opportunity to sell books we would lose by continuing our journey that night. Now when the book question was presented I thought it time for No. 3 to interpose. I told him the town had been thoroughly canvassed, hence there was no reason for us re- maining on expense until the morrow. He then suggested that we stay over for the purpose of selling books to the cowboys that night. This only served to enhance the opinion I already had of him. In fancy I picture our trio on the dark 70 The Traveling Trio streets of the rough little village, mingling with the cowboys and ranchmen, some of whom might become too hilarious from their visits to the saloon. The mental scene was far from pleasing, so were my next remarks to the intruder. After assuring him we had no intention of remaining there another night, I spoke of the bad impression our Nebraska trio would undoubtedly make in Gillette if we carried out his suggestions. For some reason my words were unappre- ciated, forsooth the man was provoked and he soon betrayed his true character by inferring that a good reputation was naught, when a few extra dollars could be made. This aroused my ire and I told him emphat- ically that our party considered a good name more valuable than wealth, hence we pre- ferred it to money. In a tone of impatience he declared me foolish because of my moral standing, then with an air of disgust he walked away. As the defeated villain passed around the depot he beckoned for Miss Dera to follow, but our friend paid no attention to him. When the long weary wait came to a close there were at least three individuals who were The Traveling Trio 71 glad to board the brightly lighted train. These were no other than the Nebraska trio, who reached the little city of Sheridan a trifle in advance of the promising new day. It was very cool as well as dark, so we de- posited ourselves in the cozy depot to wait developments. Being naturally a little weary from loss of sleep we intended to spend the time in that restful occupation, but our attempts to do so were only a partial success. The girls spent some time in trying to locate a soft place in the hard seats, which may rightly be called the travelers' trial. Finally after many murmurs of discontent the girls obtained the relief sought, by padding a comfortable place for their drowsy heads. I was more fortunate as far as a comfortable position was concerned, but the much desired sleep was sadly shattered by the colored por- ter who came in now and then to attend to the stove. He evidently thought we came from Klon- dike, judging from the manner in which he raised the temperature. At one time the reception waxed so warm that the writer had a great notion to faint, just for the pleasure of being rolled out into the cool atmosphere. 72 The Traveling Trio But having never performed the feat before, I was uncertain how to proceed, therefore the idea was banished. Finally, in spite of the many disturbances we managed to catch a few naps. The period for sleep was of short duration, however, for the rosy banners of dawn were soon flaunted in the dusky east. As soon as sufficiently aroused we sallied forth in quest of a private boarding house, referred to us by a fellow traveler. Several days were spent in Sheridan for the purpose of selling my literary work. The Traveling Trio 73 THE UNLEARNED LESSON IN CLOCKOLOGY. 0§§^>N the night of our departure our Ne- |||j§ braska trio had an experience, which was alarming as well as humorous. The room which we occupied in the Cottage Hotel adjoined the parlor, but it had one drawback in the form of portierres, which separated our apartment from the room men- tioned. Such an unreliable door is not alto- gether pleasing, because of the fact that it is not proof against those inconsiderate beings called burglars. It so happened that the train we expected to take was due at 2 a. m. It also happened that the depot was two miles from our board- ing place therefore it was necessary to rise at one o'clock, if we expected to catch the early train. Shortly after tea while the writer and her friend were seated in the parlor the landlady entered with the much desired alarm clock. She informed us that it was one of those auto- matic terrors guaranteed to banish the largest 74 The Traveling Trio drove of nightmares and break the strongest thread of golden dreams — one of those ever- lasting ringers which makes you feel like doing something desperate, as you are brought back to this earth with a rush that almost takes your breath from your body. It took but a moment for the landlady to show how the alarm could be turned off, when in operation. It was as simple as falling off a log when one understood the combination, but when one chances to be an entire stranger to the con- cern — well, that is a different supposition. As my mind was occupied with other mat- ters I paid little attention to the conversation, yet from the stray remarks in that direction I conceived that my friend had mastered the art of quieting an alarm clock. Darkness fell, the household retired and for a time peace and tranquility reigned. Then all was vice versa. Without a second's notice the clock got busy and the manner in which it splintered the silence was simply alarming. But would you believe it ? After an interval of hilarious ringing the sassy inconsiderate machine paused as though listening for some sound from the sleepers. Was it then content with the mischief The Traveling Trio 75 wrought? Ah! no, don't you think it! with renewed energy it began ringing the same old tune. It is needless to say we left the isle of slum- ber without further delay. We awoke with a start to find that we were not aboard a switching freight train, but face to face with one of the worst inventions ever made. As our friend Dera was the only one who had received instructions on the management of the concern, she hastily arose and in a dazed manner groped her way through the darkness until her hands grasped the clock. A moment passed while the alarm contin- ued to whirl in the same annoying way. In response to my inquiries as to what was the matter, there was an impatient exclama- tion, "I can't seem to find the right screw. Just wait until I light a lamp and then I will stop the horrid thing. Oh dear, there isn't a match here. What shall I do?" Without waiting for a suggestion she rushed through the portierres into the parlor. After switching on the light she turned her attention to the noisy time piece. But her efforts to quiet the innocent looking machine were unavailing. The right com- bination could not be located and it was evi- 76 The Traveling Trio dent the landlady's information had fallen on desert air. After everything turnable had been turned and everything pressable had been pressed, the affair began to look serious. Something must be done immediately, but what that something should be, was more than we could tell. In sheer desperation the white robed figure slapped and pounded the clock without the desired effect. Then she shook the hateful thing until it rattled, but in vain, the alarm never ceased its ringing. Every now and then she would call in a panic-stricken voice, "Myrtle, what shall I do? What shall I do ?" But the writer was unable to suggest any- thing that Miss Dera had not already done. Up and down the parlor she paced, remind- ing one for all the world of an anxious mother, who walks the floor with her colic-stricken babe. Presently the white-robed figure began parading in a circle. Round and round the room she cantered, bound for nowhere and accomplishing naught. At times the unruly clock was pressed close to the captor's throbbing heart, then again The Traveling Trio 77 she almost smothered its tiresome whir in the folds of her gown. Oh, if the thing would only run down or break, anything would have been preferable to that metallic ring. The scene was certainly dramatic and an outsider would undoubtedly have considered it humorous, but not so with the Nebraska trio, who were a little distressed. We expected to have the entire household swoop down upon us if the disturbance had continued much longer. The only other occupant of the first floor was an elderly gentleman whose room also adjoined the parlor. Now it happened that this particular boarder was exceedingly deaf, which was fortunate for him on this occasion. This was something of a relief to us, yet we feared he might hear the commotion and come to our assistance. This thought, strange to say, only made matters worse. In the meantime the provoking machine kept busily at it, as though bound to do its duty at any cost. We might have thrown the tiresome ringer out of doors, or we might have buried it under the bed clothes, but such ideas never presented themselves at that time. 78 The Traveling Trio Swiftly the moments flew by, making our departure from Sheridan a thing of uncertainty. What should be done? Suddenly footsteps were heard, the hall door opened and the floor-walker vanished with her noisy captive. The writer was simply astounded at the unexpected act, but my efforts to detain the flying figure were in vain. Up the stairs she bounded with the clock ringing out its defiance on the night air. The excited girl was bent on finding the landlady's room, where relief might be obtained. With unfaltering steps, regardless of the boarders who were beginning to move about in their rooms. Every now and then a door was cautiously opened and a face peered out to learn the cause of their unusual disturb- ance. Presently the dazed landlady appeared, with more good humor than one would expect on such an occasion. In an instant she found the combination which silenced the peace dis- turber, much to the relief of our party. A few minutes later we were on the dark street, trying to hurry in the direction of the depot; but speed was impossible until we reached the business section of the city. iM& The Traveling Trio 79 Then our progress was made easy by the many electric lights. The reader may think the streets were de- serted at that early hour, but such was not the case. A number of places were open for the bene- fit of those who wished to assuage their ap- petites or quench their thirsts. Music filled the air and gay laughter mingled with hilarious voices. There were women as well as men among the dissipating night birds, who were certainly not on the road to purity and goodness. A policeman strolled leisurely down the opposite side of the street, but his presence made us feel more comfortable. It took but a short time for our train to make the five mile run between Sheridan and Dietz. When we reached the mining village it was wrapped in darkness and slumber. The only person to be seen was the station agent, whom we soon learned was desirous of reaching his sleeping apartments. As it happened to be several hours before daylight was due and as we knew nothing whatever about our new location it seemed the wisest plan to await dawn before starting out to explore our strange quarters. 80 The Traveling Trio We were just settling ourselves in one cor- ner of the two-b}^-four waiting room when the disobliging young agent informed us that the depot would shortly be closed for the rest of the night. The announcement was unwelcome as well as unexpected, hence our weary trio gave vent to exclamations of surprise, which served to put the agent in a more wakeful attitude. He coolly remarked that if our party had visited Dietz a year previous we should not have found a depot there, as it had but recent- ly been erected. The writer promptly informed him that their party would never have stopped in a mining village, if they had passed that way when it had not possessed a depot. We then made inquiries regarding a hotel and to our great amazement the agent offered to escort us thither with a lantern. We gladly accepted his guidance and a few moments later our party sallied forth in the cool atmosphere, which we quickly noticed was laden with the odor of coal gases. Across several railroad tracks, through a ditch, which was fortunately void of water, and over a rough path, we followed our guide and his lantern. The Traveling Trio 81 Finally to our great relief the hotel was reached, but the place seemed deserted, so quiet was everything on the premises. But after a series of vigorous raps our guide suc- ceeded in arousing some sleepy individual on the second floor. When the proprietor, for such he proved to be, appeared in our midst we were informed that every room in the house was full. But being a gentleman be did the next best thing, which was to invite us in for the remainder of the night. The agent bade us a hasty good-night at the door and as soon as the proprietor had ushered us through a long hall into a spacious dining room, he also took his departure. The room was brightly lighted by electric- ity, but that did not banish the drowsy feel- ing, which took possession of our party. For once we were not in a communicative mood. The girls found the dining room chairs a hard proposition, while they tried to find a com- fortable position in which to catch a few winks of sleep. Therefore, it was with gladness we hailed the arrival of dawn and the rising of the hotel inmates. 82 The Traveling Trio Before breakfast was served we adjourned to the pleasant parlor which had been put in readiness for us. The reader may fancy because a hotel is situated in a western mining camp, it must necessarily be a rough, second class affair. Forsooth the writer once fostered this idea, but from experience I learned that such was not the case. The climate and locality have little to do with the inner life of such a public place. It is principally the parties who have charge of the establishment, that make or mar it. This particular hotel was with modern conveniences. They served good meals and the prices were reasonable. The proprietor and wife were congenial American people and they made their tran- sient feel like passing that way again. The Traveling Trio 83 THE MINING CAMP. *URING the day that followed we saw and learned much of interest in Dietz. Besides the miners who had their little homes in the camp, there were several hundred boarding at the hotel, strong, enduring fellows who saw little of ease and pleasure in their monotonous round of toil. What if their faces were powdered with coal- dust and their suits coarse and unfashionable ? These men who spend most of their time in the bowels of the earth are diamonds in the rough, if you please. A majority of them are gentlemen in word and deed, which is more than can be said of some eastern men who strut about in linen and broadcloth. The chief attraction in Dietz is the mining industry, which helps to make Sheridan what it is today. There are two coal mines in the camp. Both are lighted by electricity and we were told they once had a surprise party for the superintendent in one of the mines. The tables were spread and everything put in 84 The Traveling Trio readiness for the banquet. When the people heard the approach of the superintendent, they switched off the lights until he drew near, hence the surprise was all that they had anticipated. The slope mine is entirely void of gas, it extends back under the hills, tunnel fashion, for a distance of two and one half miles. The coal is conveyed from this mine in motor cars which can be heard rolling in and out at all times of the day. The shaft mine No. 2 is one hundred and seventy feet in depth and the descent is made in a cage operated by an electric motor. The coal is hauled from the side passages to the main tunnels in cars drawn by mules and horses. One man sees to elevating the coal. When a car has been fastened on the cage an air bell is rung and the entire load is lifted out of the shaft. Seventeen hundred tons of coal are ex- tracted from these mines each day. We were told that gas prevailed in the shaft mine. However, the foreman has his office at the bottom of the shaft one hundred and seventy feet below the sunlight. To the tourist, Dietz is a novelty, from the The Traveling Trio 85 cloud of smoke suspended above the camp to the galleries of coal below. Among other objects of interest is Piano Row, which has not yet reached the length and dignity of a street. It is bordered with small square cottages built alike. In outward appearance they resemble a piano, but whether the interior of these homes vibrate with harmony or discord, is more than the writer knows. Another novelty in the mining camp, we discovered when making inquiries for the postoffice. A quaint, low building with one door and a window in its dreary looking front — this small structure, which might have accom- modated the reader's family cow without pinching it, was, we learned, the postoffice. The mental comparison of Uncle Sam's quarters in our home town to that just men- tioned, was somewhat amusing. Yet beyond the humor lies an undeniable fact, it is gen- erally the small things in life that are indis- pensable, though we seldom realize the sim- ple truth. On the second day of our sojourn in Dietz the girls expressed a desire to take book orders in the mines. At first I was not in 86 The Traveling Trio favor of them going. The mere idea sug- gested infinite danger, but after hearing of other lady travelers who had made the descent in safety, I felt more willing for the girls to try it. The superintendent was very pleasant as well as considerate. After giving the girls a permit to visit the mines, he provided them with a guide who made the under-ground trip less dangerous and more interesting. While Ruth and Dera were absent I re- mained in the hotel, thinking every conceiv- able thought that embraced explosions, crum- bling mines, etc., hence the girls' safe return was a great relief to the writer. A number of books were ordered by the miners who had no money with them. This was arranged satisfactorily between both parties by taking a list of their names, which was afterward given to the superintendent with the books ordered. Each miner who subscribed for a book had the price deducted from the money due him, so it required some time to look over the pay roll and check off the names. That evening we called at the superintend- ent's office as requested and in exchange for the books I received a check for twenty-seven dollars. The Traveling Trio 87 After the business transaction, a short time was spent in pleasant converse with the superintendent and his brother officers. The gentlemen seemed glad to make the acquaintance of our trio, and those who had not ordered books, purchased a number of copies for gifts to eastern friends. The next morning we again rose early to take the westbound train. On the way to the depot one of the girls greatly amused the hotel proprietor who accompanied us, by making some remark about the frost seen in the mine. After laughing he informed us that it was not frost, but alkali, which the girls saw. We found the depot agent asleep on the second floor. The reception was ex- ceedingly cool, because of the chilly night air, which kept the passengers moving briskly about the platform. Finally, between the volley of loud taps and the impatient exclamations from below, the agent was obliged to leave his cozy bed. As soon as the door yielded to his keys, our party and the strangers who had gathered, made haste to enter the comfortable waiting room. Having been advised to cash our check at the depot we lost no time in presenting it to 88 The Traveling Trio the agent. After brief investigation of money drawers he informed us there was not that much money in his possession. This was somewhat disturbing, for we could not leave Dietz without cashing the check, and to stay over another day seemed out of the question. Presently the agent asked where we wished to go that night. On being told our next stop was Billings, he said that after giving us the tickets for that distance, he would have the money necessary to fill out our check. A few minutes later as we were about to board the waiting train, a familiar figure stepped from one of the coaches and the cheery voice of "Brown-Eyes" greeted us. In the few words exchanged before the train started, he expressed regret that our party was leaving Dietz on the night of his arrival, but concluded by saying, that if his plans unfolded satisfac- torily, he would probably spend Sunday in the same town we did. When daylight unveiled the landscape we were in Montana rolling along by the Yellow- stone river, whose clear waters sparkled and danced o'er the stony bottom. In this vicinity the barrenness of the The Traveling Trio 89 scenery was somewhat relieved by groups of forest trees. Several miles farther westward we left the stream for more interesting objects. We next passed the Crow agency and Custer's battle field. The monuments on the latter were plainly visible from the right side of the train. Among the souvenirs gathered along our route, we have a picture of Curly, the last survivor of Custer's battle. It was about nine a. m. when we reached Billings, the county seat of Yellowstone county. This progressive little city has about eight thousand inhabitants. Three branches of the Northern Pacific railroad entered the place at that time, and a branch of the Milwaukee road was coming that way. The winters are not severe in Yellowstone valley because of the surrounding mountains which prove a shelter. A great many sheep and cattle are shipped from Billings each year. The leading crops in this community are alfalfa, hay, wheat, sugar beets and oats. It chanced to be in Billings that we had the misfortune to encounter one of the meanest men in Montana. After some time spent in making inquiries 90 The Traveling Trio we engaged a comfortable room in what seemed to be a tranquil home. A young married couple occupied the cottage. Mrs. Cole was quite girlish and somewhat reticent while her husband, who was a ticket ex- changer on the Northern Pacific train, we found by experience to be a regular old bear. But he differed entirely from the docile teddy bear of today. All went smoothly until supper time when Mr. Cole returned from his run. It seems he was not in favor of taking lodgers, and the fact that his wife had acted contrary to his wishes greatly displeased his lordship. When the family disturbance reached our ears, we decided to find a new lodging place before dark. Under the pre- tence of taking a walk we strolled toward the business streets. It took but a short while to find a desirable location in a pleasant hotel. When this had been accomplished the girls requested me to remain there while they went back for our grips. I wished to accompany them for I felt they would have trouble with the disagreeable Mr. Cole, but the girls insisted on going alone, and they finally had their way. After a time two excited girls entered the writer's apartment. Ruth and Dera had returned without the The Traveling Trio v 91 grips. They quickly related their warm inter- view with the ticket exchanger. He refused to give up our baggage until we paid him a certain sum of money, which exceeded the price set by his wife, if our trio had occupied the room twenty-four hours. Fortunately I had the purse, so the girls were unable to give him the amount desired. At first we knew not how to deal with the new and unexpected problem. But one thing was certain, we were bent on having our grips that night. With well constructed plans, our party set out for our enemy's camp. On the way we were greatly surprised to meet a Nebraska friend, whom we had no idea was in Montana. When he had been informed of our difficulty, a nearby policeman was consulted. After listening to the particulars, the officer said we could secure our baggage without paying Mr. Cole a cent. He concluded by saying if the man caused us further annoy- ance to let him know. It was nearly twilight when we reached our enemy's home, where a bit of stratagem was soon practiced. Mr. Cole evidently expected visitors, for no time was lost in answering our rap. He stepped outside and we conversed 92 The Traveling Trio in front of the porch as planned. The writer began the attack in a pleasant voice, not car- ing to arouse the bear just then. I understood he and the girls had differed in settling our account. He replied in the af- firmative, and his words were half agreeable. I listened patiently to what he had to say on the subject, before saying that because of the displeasure expressed by him at our entrance in his home, we had secured another lodging place, and had come for our grips. At this Mr. Cole presented his bad humor, and coolly announced that we could have our posses- sions by giving him the desired sum. While I held his attention in this manner, Dera slipped quietly into the house as previ- ously planned. The venture was somewhat risky and we were rather dubious as to the outcome. But much to our relief Mr. Cole failed to notice our friend's movements, so engrossed was he in the money question. It took but a few moments for Dera to make her way to our former room, obtain the grips, and reappear in the yard a safe distance from our party. Her exit was witnessed in silence by us, but the unwary man saw nothing. He was greatly excited over the policeman The Traveling Trio 93 statement just told him; I mentioned no names but said someone of good authority gave us the information. Mr. Cole for some unknown reason thought it was the porter in the hotel we intended to patronize, hence that innocent gentleman received a few uncomplimentary remarks, which fortunately fell on desert air Suddenly his eyes penetrated the gathering gloom, and beheld Dera standing guard over what he supposed was safe in his keeping. The poor man was astounded and the fact that he had been defeated on his own premises by three defenseless girls, was almost more than Mr. Cole could endure. His voice betrayed unalloyed anger as he growled something about our unexpected act. Still he made no attempt to recover the bag- gage. Therefore the writer has no interest ing foot race to record. In the dialogue that followed the ticket exchanger found that the Nebraska trio had no intention of granting his request. We had only occupied the room part of the day, but the greedy man coolly announced it was not his fault. When we had told him the sum he desired was much larger than that asked by his wife 94 The Traveling Trio the dubious bear called loudly for that unfor- tunate being. Presently she came around the house and her attitude reminded one of a child, who ex- pected to be punished. Without a word she seated herself on the edge of the porch. When Mr. Cole questioned her in regard to the agreement, I expected her fear of displeasing him might cause her to neglect the truth, which would place us in a nice predicament. There was a slight pause, followed by a few timid words which confirmed our statement. Once more the man was defeated, and this time by his candid wife. After hearing the answer he remarked angrily, if his wife had made such an agree- ment with us, why of course that settled it. He then expressed his feelings in words never used by a gentleman, serenity and good etiquette being completely forgotten. We next suggested that he divide the sum mentioned, but in vain, the obstinate bear held his ground firmly. It was then dark and our trio thought it time to move toward the hotel. So we informed Mr. Cole that he was a per- fect coward to impose on three unprotected The Traveling Trio 95 girls as he had done. The amount asked by Mrs. Cole was handed him with a sarcastic phrase and we merely concluded by saying that as he needed the money more than our trio did, we would gladly give him the sum. The last shot evidently touched a tender spot, for he threw the money in his wife's lap, suggesting that she spend it for ice cream. The writer was amused as well as disgusted, for the avaricious prelude to the exhibition of generosity was still shining brightly in the foreground. It was undoubtedly done for effect, and we felt that the timid Mrs. Cole never had an opportunity to spend the money for ice cream. The next day we left Billings and proceeded westward. As on previous occasions Ruth occupied one of the passenger coaches, and as usual she had our tickets in her possession so as to save the conductor a trip into the bag- gage car. Several times during the summer Ruth had traveled on half fare. She was a little too old for such priviliges, but no one objected, and her juvenile appearance served to screen her from the conductors' pesonal inquiries. On the day mentioned she was riding on half fare between Billings and Livingston. 96 The Traveling Trio The distance was short and we never dreamed of an interference. Besides the jovial con- ductor, this passenger train possessed an un- necessary evil called a ticket exchanger. Ruth was somewhat surprised to recognize in him the disagreeable Mr. Cole, whose feelings to- wards us were still below zero, as was finally proven. When Ruth presented our transportation he grasped his opportunity by the forelock, and began storming about the half ticket. After several ill-natured remarks he tried to scare her into paying the half fare, but owing to our experience the night previous she was not afraid of his bluster. It happened that I had the purse, so Ruth informed him that it would be necessary for him to interview me in the baggage car, if he desired the|money. For some reason Mr. Cole did not^carry out the suggestion, but when his efforts to make Ruth visit the baggage car and obtain the money, had proven in vain, he explained "mat- ters to the passing conductor, when that gen- tleman had heard the ticket exchanger's little say, he said good humoredly, "Oh that's all right," and then passed down the aisle. Mr. Cole was furious, but that was all the good it did. The Traveling Trio 97 His attempts to get the best of the Nebraska trio were at an end. Three times he had tried to annoy us, and each time he had been defeat- ed; hence we say he laughs best who laughs last. On the afternoon of our arrival in Living- ston the weather was exceedingly cool, be- cause of a recent snowfall on the nearby mountains. Before sundown we were obliged to resurrect warmer wraps, which had not been used since leaving home. Livingston proved to be a thriving town of four thousand inhabitants. Among its many fine buildings is the North- ern Pacific depot, one of the most magnificent of its kind in Montana. The tourist who wishes to explore the great Yellowstone Park, can easily reach it by the branch line running to Gardner. From thence the pleasure seekers are conveyed to the park in a six horse stage. Our trio had a great desire to behold the wonders of the park, but two things prevented us from doing so. The advanced season and our eagerness to reach Oregon. Livingston was the only place on our route, where we failed to find a vacancy of some kind ; 98 The Traveling Trio every hotel was crowded, and the private places had all they could accommodate. The overflow was caused by a fair which was to begin in a few days. It was against our principles to give up, but when the 15th call met with the same discour- aging answer, we suddenly concluded to leave Livingston on the next train. By inquiry we learned the train was not due until late, so we were elected to remain there two-thirds of the night. Our party returned to a cottage hotel whose landlady had impressed us favorably, when we called. It was not far from the depot, so the writer asked if they might rest in her par- lor until train time, as it would be much pleas- anter than waiting at the depot. The comfort-loving soul thought this would be too hard on us, so she kindly offered to open a lounge in the dining room, on which the girls might sleep until awakened by the alarm clock. Every time I awoke the girls were tossing and tumbling in a restless man- ner. It was something unusual, for they were quiet sleepers, and it was almost impossible to arouse them during the night. The cause of their disturbance was discovered however, before we left the house. Now it happened The Traveling Trio 99 that in one way the much used lounge resem- bled the lodging places in Livingston. It was simply full to overflowing, and there were no accommodations for new lodgers. Hence the girls were attacked on all sides by the spiteful little desperadoes. One thing proved certain, those Montana pests are up with the times. Forsooth, when the alarm went off, and the light came on, the band skidooed in twenty-three directions. The early ride through the clear invigorat- ing atmosphere, was greatly enjoyed by our trio. We soon reached the first range of the Rockies, which afforded us a new experience. After traveling some distance on the mountain side, whose verdure was beautifully decorated with ripe berries and wild flowers, we passed through the Boseman tunnel 3652 feet in length, at this point the elevation was 5565 feet. It was the first time on our trip that I found it difficult to breathe. Shortly after leaving the tunnel we entered Boseman, or to be more exact, we reached the depot, one mile from the town mentioned. Some of the passengers made their way to the railroad hotel near by, while others took the horse-drawn street car for town. We were 100 The Traveling Trio among the former for the location proved more convenient for our party. As expected, "Brown-Eyes" arrived on our train. After seeing us settled in the hotel, he and Dera proceeded to town, the latter going in quest of the postoffice before it closed. Boseman was one of our mail points, and to let the interesting letters go uncalled for until the morrow, was simply impossible. Now it happened that this was Sunday morning, the first time our trio had traveled on the Lord's day. Heretofore we had been able to prevent it, but on this occasion the circumstances over which we had no control made it necessary to do otherwise. The forenoon was pleasantly spent in the perusal of our mail, and the writing to absent ones. Whil the afternoon was spent in con- versing with our entertaining friend, "Brown- Eyes." During our two days' sojourn in Boseman, the writer was unable to visit the place because of inclement whether and the distance between depot and town. However we learned that this town of 4000 has had two honors bestowed on it, namely the State Agricultural College, and the United States fish hatchery. On Monday evening our trio moved onward, The Traveling Trio 101 but as the next two places offer naught of interest we will pass them by. A short distance beyond Helena, the capi- tal of Montana, we passed through the Mullen tunnel, which is about the same in length and elevation as the Boseman tunnel. Once more our train was provided with two engines, in order to make the ascent, but unlike the first, our passage through the western half of the Mullen tunnel sloped downward, therefore our train glided out into the open at a speed not altogether soothing to the nerves. Several days later there was a terrible wreck at this point, in which great damage was done, and a number of lives lost. At Garrison where we changed cars, several hours were spent in waiting for our train. This gave us an opportunity to admire our surroundings, which could be taken in at one glance. Forsooth the largest thing about Garrison was its name. The foreground some what resembled Mrs. Wiggs' cabbage patch. Sev- eral small stores, a hotel, and a number of houses were scattered about on the barren soil. l\ This was all the little village displayed, yet owing to nature's beautiful background, 102 The Traveling Trio the scene before us was picturesque and impressive. The western view proved the most prom- inent on this occasion. A rustic bridge, a woodsy place, Where the purple shadows weave their lace, Beyond a ridge of mountains rise, To meet the flush of sunset skies; While over all a hush descends, Fair scene where peace with beauty blends. To the practical reader the small pen pic- ture may prove of no importance, however, I trust a goodly number of beauty-loving souls will read this book, for the writer is poetical, and her efforts to make the pen prosy are not always successful. Like the frisky young colt it will leap over the boundary line into the tempting field of verse. While we watched the glow fade from the evening scene, a number of Indians sauntered up to the depot. They were attired in the usual fashion, but the one who attracted the most attention was a reticent youth, whose hair hung in two long braids. A lady traveler tried to take his picture, but the wary savage had other intentions. He appeared to be afraid of the kodak and he lost no time in leaving our presence. The Traveling Trio 103 The trip from Garrison to Missoula was made on the North Coast Limited running from St. Paul to Portland. In speed and accommodations this train excels all others on the Northern Pacific road. It is lighted with electricity throughout, which gives the train a beautiful appearance as it rushes through the darkness of night. Several hours of travel brought us to Hell Gate Canyon, where the train had been held up several times. The electrician, who spent his time in the baggage car where the dynamo was located, told us the interesting particulars connected with one of the hold-ups, in which he played a solid part. In a wild, remote spot the train always stopped to water. It was here under the cover of night, that the highwaymen performed their deeds. After the baggage car had been detached from the train, the engineer was requested to take it some distance up the track; of course he obeyed orders for there seemed to be nothing else to do, if he valued his life. When this had been accomplished, part of the desperadoes kept watch without, while their comrades gained an entrance to the bag- gage car. It is hardly necessary to say the baggage-master and the electrician were as 104 The Traveling Trio docile as lambs. But that was the only prof- itable thing to do when death was pointed at them by several lawless men. The electrician confessed that he lost no time in obeying orders, and in doing so he was very careful not to arouse their suspicion by making a false movement. When the safe had been forced to give up its valuables, the robbers vanished in the dark- ness, and the train rolled on. It would be well to add that the desperadoes who escaped with their lives, are now making good use of their time in the penitentiary, having finally been captured in the third hold-up. Shortly after passing through Devil's Gap, called the Gate- way to Missoula, we reached our destination. It was about midnight and the friends we expected to visit, while in Missoula, chanced to reside in the opposite part of the city. Therefore we went to the nearest hotel in quest of a room, only to find the place crowded; as the hour was late we gave up the search and returned to the brilliantly lighted depot. The rest of the night was spent in the ladies' waiting room, where the goddess of sleep favored us with a few restful naps. About eight o'clock the next morning we set out to find our friend's place of business. The Traveling Trio 105 He was editor of the Missoula Times, so we had no difficulty in locating his office. Ruth entered and requested him to step outside where someone wished to see him. When he appeared I called him by name, and asked him if he remembered me. For a moment he stood speechless, rubbing his head in a bewildered manner, then in a voice of genuine surprise he exclaimed, "Why Myrtle Tallman, you are the last person in the world I would have expected to see out here." We laughed merrily and gave him a brief outline of our unusual trip. He then gave our trio a cordial invitation to visit his home, adding that his wife, who was also an old friend of the writer's family, would be very glad to see us. During the next few days we had a delight- ful visit in this home. Our hostess who had spent most of her sin- gle blessedness in the schoolroom, was a bright, intellectual woman, and a good entertainer. When the business hours were over, our congenial host and his son added much to the merriment of our ! party. The evenings were gen- erally finished off by a musical treat, furnished by one of Edison's excellent phonographs. Missoula is the metropolis of western Mon- 106 The Traveling Trio tana, and it is without doubt one of the most beautiful cities in the state. It has a popula- tion of nine thousand. The site of the city occupies both sides of the river, the two portions being connected by an imposing bridge, nearly a quarter of a mile in length. Besides the public school, Missoula possesses in the educational line a Carnegie library, a commercial college, Sacred Heart Academy, and the state university. The newcomer would have no trouble in finding a church home, as all denominations are represented in this city. The principal crops in this locality are fruit, grain, and vegetables. All of these are raised with great success by the help of irrigation, which is a necessity in Montana, as in other western states. After disposing of the practical part of Missoula, we will turn to the picturesque side, which always appeals to the artistic eye. The mere name Missoula is musical, as well as suggestive of untold beauty. The charm- ing little city is comparatively framed in mountains, for they loom up on all sides of the place. One evening we saw what was to us an unusual sight, a forest fire working out its The Traveling Trio 107 destruction among the majestic pines on the side of Mt. Sentinel. Like a fiery serpent it slowly pursued its uncertain course, here and there, against the background of darkness. By daylight the mountains are not always the same; when their pineclad summits are veiled in purple haze, they seem quite a dis- tance from the city, but at other times when they stand out boldly against the sunlit sky, so close do the mountains appear that the un- experienced tourist is often deceived by the distance. One day while the westbound passenger train, was making its usual twenty minutes stop in Livingston, a gentleman thought to occupy his time by walking to the foot of a mountain which seemed within close range. After some time, as well as breath had been utilized in the attempt, he suddenly realized that, like the man who went in quest of the moon, he was apparently as far from the mountain as he was at the starting point. On returning to the depot the weary traveler found to his dismay, that the inconsiderate train had gone. He also learned that the mountain was at least four miles from the depot. 108 The Traveling Trio Before leaving Missoula we received a card from ( 'Bro wn-Eyes ' ' , who had taken several side trips after leaving Boseman. He wrote that if nothing prevented he would again join us in Wallace, Idaho. On the morning of our departure from Missoula I had the ill fortune to damage one of my rubber tires; there was no time for re- pairs, and to lay over was contrary to plans, hence the misbehaved tire was torn from the wheel, and we boarded the train somewhat annoyed, if not altogether tireless. After an unventful day spent in the lonely little village of Iron Mountain, we again took up the thread of travel. This trip was one of the most enjoyable on our route, because of the grand scenery, and many objects of in- terest to be seen. For a time we rolled past beautiful wild flowers, tall imposing ferns, and majestic pine trees, all of which won our admiration. We then glided past a number of lumber mills and stopped at several small stations, where little of interest rewarded our gaze. At one time we beheld a small school house situated in a remote spot; the only feature worthy of mention was the American flag, which floated gayly in the morning sunlight The Traveling Trio 109 above the structure. It was indeed pleasing to the patriotic eye to see old glory waving in that unsettled district. With little effort and only one engine, our train slowly ascended the mountain. At one point we were able to see two tracks below us, and as we proceeded a veil of smoke made it- self conspicious, due to forest fires which were marring the beauties of nature. In one place the fire was so near the track that the heat could be plainly felt. It was indeed a picture of black destruction, a great number of the magnificent trees lay charred and smoking, while many others were being rapidly consumed by the fiery serpents, which crept steadily up the grand old trunks. Another interesting feature was the horse- shoe tunnel, whose entrance could be plainly seen from the train, as we made our exit on the opposite side. It was exactly one o'clock by railroad time when we reached the summit of Bitter Root Mountain, 4680| feet above sea level. Shortly after crossing the line between Montana and Idaho we passed over the S bridge, which is several hundred feet in length. The trestle was constructed so as to form a letter S across the rocky gorge, and those who 110 The Traveling Trio behold the bridge, consider it an excellent piece of workmanship. As we had sold "Crumbs of Thought " in nearly every altitude, from the depths of the coal mine to the mountain top, I wished to reach the limit by selling a book on the sum- mit of Bitter Root Mountain. Therefore as our train crossed the S bridge, we interviewed the conductor and disposed of a copy. A little later the baggage-master remarked that we could now write to our eastern friends of a snowstorm seen on the mountain side. On looking in the direction he pointed out, we we learned that the snowstorm in question was a valuable silver mine, the ore was con- veyed to the camp below, a distance of several miles, by the means of a cable to which cages were attached. This was only one of the many mines seen while making the descent. During the next few hours while coasting down the mountain side, Dame Nature con- tinued to unfold her picturesque scenery. It was about three o'clock when our train rolled into the historic little city of Wallace, Idaho. This interesting place is situated in the rich Coeur d'Alene district, where tin, gold, silver and lead mines were then in operation, The Traveling Trio 111 besides the extensive smelting works. Since the discovery of this wealth-giving region in 1884, the mines have produced more than $200,000,000 in gold, silver and lead. Right here let me add that two-thirds of the lead used in the United States is obtained from the Coeur d'Alene district, where peace and prosperity reign. However, about eight years ago all was vice versa, a wave of dissatisfaction swept over the mining camp, because of the fact that many of the men were getting higher wages than others received for their labor. Finally the storm burst, and trouble prevailed. On the night of April 29th, 1898, a mob of angry men took possession of the Northern Pacific train for the purpose of conveying a large quantity of powder to Wardner. When the deed had been successfully accomplished they lost no time in destroying the valuable Bunk- er Hill Sullivan mill, this being the company that payed the lowest wages. In a short time the U. S. troops arrived, and martial laws were established, many of the men were imprisoned and about a dozen punished. But fortunately for all concerned the trouble was of short duration. The mine was soon in operation, with the 112 The Traveling Trio wages adjusted to the satisfaction of those employed, the Bunker Hill alone .. paying $180,000 per month in dividends. We were told that during the disturbance in Wallace, the soldiers picketed their horses near Lead Creek whose waters are said to be poisonous. The results were somewhat touching, for many of the animals died from eating oats which had been placed on the ground. It was thought the grain absorbed the poison, there- by killing the horses. After making a number of fruitless inquiries, our Nebraska trio found a comfortable loca- tion in the Coeur d'Alene Hotel. As in many other places there were no vacant rooms on the first floor, so we were given the parlor, which proved both pleasant and spacious. It was here that I dispensed with my damaged wheel, while it went to the shop for repairs. We afterwards learned that the trouble was caused by a common pin, which had worked its way between the tires. Just another ex- ample of what little things may do in this world. One morning at breakfast the girls chanced to learn that their table companion was an author, as well as a staff correspondent on a Denver paper. The Traveling Trio 113 On being told of me and my interest in literary work, he expressed a desire to meet the writer. Therefore after breakfast was over I received a call from our fellow traveler. He was an intellectual gentleman with a poetical mind and a philanthropist's heart, as the reader will see in the following lines. We had an interesting talk on literary work, which ended in an exchange of books, both of which were poems, his last publication was entitled " Western Chimes," while mine was christened "Crumbs of Thought." We also discussed the great beautiful west, which he had traveled in the interest of his magazine. Our new friend was quick to appreciate the beauties of nature, and his eloquent descrip- tions of the picturesque scenery viewed in the vicinity of Wallace, were very impressive. During our interview he related a chapter of real life, which came to his notice a few days prior to our arrival. The story was true as well as pathetic. 114 The Traveling Trio A GLIMPSE OF PATERNAL LOVE. HILE waiting for his train at a little station not far from Wallace, our friend's attention was attracted to a man who was walking up and down the platform, with a sweet little girl of four years. The lower part of the stranger's face was covered with a short dark beard, which was not altogether becoming. His overalls were worn through at the knees, and his ragged old shoes were certainly on their last feet. On conversing with the man our Denver friend learned much of interest concerning the un- fortunate stranger, who had walked from Perry, Oklahoma. We had frequently heard that when it rains, it pours. Well, this was true in the case mentioned. It happened that this man had lost a $5,000 wheat crop by hail; shortly after his young wife suddenly died. Then his inconsiderate creditors took his wagon and teams on a mortgage. He had few friends, no employment and no money. Little Grace was all he had left, therefore the man started The Traveling Trio 115 out afoot for a certain town in Washington. At that place he had relatives, who would care for the child, while he sought employment. Over hills, plains, and mountains, he brave- ly tramped with a cheap telescope strapped on his back, and little Grace on one arm. The child was certainly a great comfort to her father, for she sang or chattered gayly, when not playing with her rag doll, which she car- ried all the way. Whenever, they were nearing a new town, the little prophetess would tell her father correctly whether the place was good or bad, meaning that they would be treated kindly or unkindly. They crossed a goodly part of the Bitter Root Mountain at night, contrary to the advice of people who were interested in the two. They told him of the wild animals in that locality, which might be out look- ing for a meal. In case of such an encounter, there was little the man could do to protect himself and child. Then too, the narrow mountain path was not considered safe after dark. In some places one slip of the foot would have meant death on the rocks below. However, the courageous man sallied forth in the face of danger, with little Grace clinging 116 The Traveling Trio to him, and a large, strong club grasped tightly in one hand. By and by they reached the neighborhood of a forest fire, whose heat at times became almost unbearable. The father was often obliged to shield his child's face with his hat to prevent it from blistering. Finally the weary traveler reached the little station re- cently referred to. It was there our Denver friend met him, and heard his story. When he learned that the stranger intended walking to Wallace, he let the westbound train roll on without him. A little later two men were seen wending their way toward the town mentioned, part of the time little Grace trav- eled in the arms of her new friend, which was certainly a relief to the father who carried her so many hundred miles. As they were about to enter Wallace the child exclaimed, "It's a good town, a pretty town". On his arrival the stranger only possessed forty cents, but brighter days were in store for him. Our Denver friend accompanied the man in his calls on the carpenters, and he soon obtained a good three days' job at fifty cents an hour. This bit of good fortune greatly encouraged the man, for it would enable him to reach the desired town in Washington. A kind family The Traveling Trio 117 cared for the child while he was at work, and she played happily with a new doll the people had given her. Having been told of the unusual trip taken by the Nebraska trio, and hearing of the in- terest we took in his undertaking, the stranger called at the hotel to see us. He was poorly clad, and very sad in appearance. But that made no difference with our party, we con- versed pleasantly, and learned much regard- ing his trip, which he then intended to write up in book form. It seems that the stranger and his child were not always treated kindly by the people with whom they came in con- tact. Ah, no, there were some selfish mortals, whose hearts were apparently made of stone. They evidently believe in saving all they can and canning all they save. But thank good- ness, they will be unable to take their canned goods into the next world. If such a thing were possible, their savings would most assuredly melt in the fire prepared for them. The father's love for his little daughter was profound; when the Perry advisers sug- gested that the child remain there while he went elsewhere in quest of employment, the 118 The Traveling Trio father informed them that where he went the child would go also. When speaking of little Grace to us, he said in a tearful voice that she was all he had in the world, all he had to live for, and no one should separate them. When the writer expressed a desire to see the child, he said if there was no carpenter work that afternoon he would call with little Grace. But we were disappoint- ed by the nonappearance of both, and the next next day took a side trip up the canyon. Our first attempt was a failure, for we reached the depot in time to see the distance widening between us and the outgoing train. Therefore we had the pleasure of waiting a number of hours for the next train. On the day prior to our departure, the Denver gentle- man after returning from a ramble, presented the writer with a fine collection of ore, and an exquisite bouquet of sweet peas; flowers were not plentiful in that vicinity just then, it being the middle of September. When we spoke of continuing our journey west, he ad- vised us to take a side trip up the canyon, saying it was a novelty that no tourist could afford to miss. The Traveling Trio 119 FOUR DAYS IN THE CANYON. NUMBER of trains roll up and down each day, making it very convenient for the traveler. The high walls of the narrow canyon were not altogether deprived of beauty, for here and there, the artistic hand of nature had placed a growth of bushes, a few pine trees, or a patch of ferns. On the sloping floor of the canyon there was very little room for improvement, two rail- roads tracks, and the Lead creek recently men- tioned occupied the center, while scattered along on both sides were the five mining vil- lages, Gem, Frisco, Blackbear, Mace, and Burke. The last mentioned was situated at the end of the seven mile canyon, where the railroad ceased. At this point the elevation was 2000 feet above the sea. Our first stop was in Mace ; there was no depot, so the train drew up in front of a large hotel, where the passengers alighted, the mail bags were also thrown off, for the Mace postoffice was located in one corner of the hotel office. After some 120 The Traveling Trio inquiry, our trio engaged a furnished room in a private house, about four blocks up the can- yon. Our new lodging place was almost half way between Burke and Mace. As the house stood but a few feet from the track, we felt, as well as heard and saw, the numerous trains that thundered by. Our room was lighted by electricity, likewise the hotels and other im- portant buildings in the canyon. The lights were furnished by a mighty water power in Spokane a hundred miles way. Our trio spent four pleasant days in this interesting locality, where we kept house on a small scale. After purchasing a supply of eat- ables, we lived in a picnic fashion which proved a delightful treat. Hot coffee was easily obtained at the hotel whenever desired, and when we wished a change of living our party took a meal at the place mentioned. There was usually something of interest to be seen or heard in the Mace hotel, which shel- tered and fed several hundred miners. It was especially interesting to visit the place at sup- per time, when the men came and went. The refreshed night force filed out with their laden dinner pails, ready for the underground work awaiting them. A little later the weary day force appeared The Traveling Trio 121 with empty pails and blackened faces. After a time the men with transformed complexions made their way to the spacious dining room, where the eatables were rapidly mowed away by keen appetites. The miners were roughly clad, but in conduct they were quiet and gentlemanly when in our presence. When our trio arrived in the canyon, part of our evenings were spent at the hotel, which was a pleasant diversion as well as a novelty. When we came in contact with this class of fellowmen, the writer often wondered whether they had homes, and why they had chosen the hard monotonous life of a miner. No doubt some of them were in quest of wealth, while others had severed themselves from the world for a purpose. Perhaps misfortune, sorrow, or some evil deed had driven them thither, where they hoped with the aid of hard work and new scenes to live down the past. The writer, while conversing with a miner, was surprised to receive his confidence. It was the same sad story of a disappointment and a wounded heart. I regret to add that the party that proved untrue was a Nebraska girl. One evening while on our way up the track, 122 The Traveling Trio we were overtaken when a short distance from the hotel, by the man of whom we rented our room. After several remarks had been ex- changed, he informed us that it was hardly safe for young ladies to venture out after dark without an escort. The canyon was frequent- ly visited By wild animals that became quite bold at times. A few nights previous, as our friend was returning from Burke, he suddenly became conscious that a panther was follow- ing him. Now and then the silence was broken by a scream, which was not altogether soothing. Our friend actually admitted that he would have started for home on the run, if the moon- light had not enabled him to keep a safe look- out. The unexpected news was a great sur- prise and it naturally made us a little uneasy. We had never dreamed of harm in our new location, for our trio had come from Nebraska, where there was no danger of being attacked by wild animals after dark. The only disturb- ing thought that crossed our minds at night, was the possibility of coming in contact with one of those ungentlemanly beings called man. But we were more fortunate than the noto- rious old maid, who eventually found her The Traveling Trio 123 heart's desire under the bed one night. It will be remembered that instead of embracing her long looked for man, the frightened spin- ster called loudly for help to extricate the intruder. The object of our fears never materialized, so we wasted no time in foolish timidity, while residing in Nebraska, but when told of the danger which invaded the canyon, we decided that as our party had not gone there to feed wild animals, it would be advisable to spend the next two evenings in our room. Among the unusual things seen while in Mace, was a hand car drawn up the track by horses, the ascent being apparently too difficult for the men to undertake alone. As there were no roads or sidewalks, the railroad tracks were used by foot passengers, as well as by every conceivable equipage. One day we were amused by a wash out on the line ; it was not the garments that proved so humorous, but the new fashion in which the clothes were hung up to dry. One end of the line was attached to the house, and from there it was stretched over a pulley some distance up on the side of the canyon. In this manner the washing could be pulled up or down as desired. 124 The Traveling Trio Before continuing let me mention the kind- ness shown us by the train crew; no matter how rough or busy they chanced to be, the crew always found time to favor the Nebraska trio. Once they stopped the train in front of our lodging place, so that Dera could disembark with her parcels; this saved her a walk of several blocks. Another time we reached the hotel as the train was pulling out, but the engineer saw us, and brought the train to a standstill. They were also pleasant and obliging whenever we came in contact with them. One morning there was a rap on our door, and when opened we found "Brown-Eyes" standing without; after handing us a box of bon bons with a cheery greeting, he continued on his way to Burke, where we expected to go on the following day. The card we mailed to him in Wallace, telling him of our whereabouts had been received. Heretofore "Brown-Eyes" had taken an undivided in- terest in the members of our party, but on this occasion his preference was shown by the bon bons, the box being addressed to Dera. The next morning we took the train for Burke as planned. This mining village is situated The Traveling Trio 125 at the end of the railroad, a short distance from Mace. After alighting at the little de- pot, we proceeded to the Tiger Pullman hotel, a good sized structure with modern improve- ments, where about four hundred miners boarded. When a number of books had been sold and we had partaken of the noonday repast, the writer took life easy on the front porch, while Dera and Ruth climbed up the canyon side in quest of ferns. After a time they returned with a quantity of beautiful verdant sprays, some of which were several feet in length. As soon as their arms were empty, the girls proceeded to decorate the writer and her chair with nature's splendor. In a few moments I was completely covered with ferns, only my face being visible through the cool net work of green. In this fashion we took a short walk for the lack of something better to do. Of course our display attracted some attention, but as green is soothing to the optical organs, we did not care. The natives of that place evidently thought our party had foolish ideas, for they seemed to appreciate ferns about as much as the Nebraska people do their beauti- ful sunflowers. Shortly after our return to the hotel, 126 The Traveling Trio "Brown-Eyes" appeared with his camera. He had been taking pictures, which would be of value to the eastern magazine. A pleasant intercourse followed, in which we laid out our plans for some distance ahead. Our trio intended to eat supper in Wallace that night, for we had already spent four days in the canyon. However, "Brown-Eyes" thought it advisable for him to spend more time among the mining camps, before returning to the main line. A little later we started for the depot with a good impression of Burke and the people with whom we had come in contact. This included the hard-working miners, many of whom we learned were diamonds in the rough; also the proprietor of the hotel, who was exceedingly kind to the Nebraska trio. It was not sur- prising that we resolved to visit the canyon again, if the future permitted us to pass that way. As usual Dera and I traveled in the baggage car, while Ruth found a seat in the adjoining coach. Shortly after leaving Burke, Miss Dera picked up a sweet pea from the floor near her feet. It was the first time we had seen a flower in the canyon and the finding of one in the baggage car aroused our curiosity. Of course The Traveling Trio 127 we expressed surprise, as well as wonderment as to how the flower came there. By and by Dera whispered the unexpected truth in an awe-stricken voice. Once more we were in the presence of death, but this time it impressed us more deeply than before. The corpse was that of an infant, and it silently told of a shadowed home where grief-stricken hearts mourned the loss of their little one. Just a tiny white casket Placed there with tender care, Strewn o'er with fresh sweet blossoms, Like that found near my chair. Only a small white casket Which held a gem most rare, A spray of heaven's heart's-ease, The angels could not spare. Dera and I presently found that we were not the only interested parties in the car, a strange gentleman standing near the open door, was evidently related to the little one; every now and then he glanced in that direc- tion, and a tear was frequently brushed from his manly cheek. Under the circumstances our seven mile ride to Wallace was far from pleasant. When we reached the station, the little flower-stewn casket was handed to a gentleman without. 128 The Traveling Trio With care he bore it to a double seated car- riage which waited for the mourners and their sleeping love. A little later the carriage rolled out of sight, but not out of the writer's memory. The Traveling Trio 129 ACROSS THE COEUR D'ALENE LAKE. jlllll HE next day we moved westward as P1§S far as Harrison, which is situated on one side of the Coeur d'Alene Lake. This body of water is ten miles wide and thirty miles long, the depth is unknown for at that time we were told they had not been able to find the bottom. After one night and part of a day had been spent in the town, we took a steam boat for Coeur d' Alene City,on the opposite side of the lake. It was a beau- tiful afternoon, the sun shone brightly on the lake, giving it the appearance of a large mirror. As soon as we were aboard, Ruth and Dera made a tour of inspection over the boat. It was the first time our trio had traveled on the water and the girls meant to obtain all there was in the new experience. When the baggage and freight had been conveyed to the boat, the gangway was re- moved, and the gate closed, then with the usual signals of whistle, clanging of gongs and 130 The Traveling Trio ringing of bells, the boat moved away from the shore. Slowly the town of Harrison re- ceded, until it vanished in the distance. Hour after hour o'er the shining water we glided, whose depths might have filled some with anxiety, but our trio seldom crossed bridges before they were reached, so we worried not. There were a number of life preservers hang- ing near for immediate use, but beyond the heavenly blue was One who we felt would protect the Nebraska trio. The surface of the lake was smooth, except the path of foam and the waves which the boat wheel churned up in our wake. As the shadows were pointing to the supper hour, we came in sight of Coeur d' Alene City. The landing at this place was about level with the first 'floor, so the boatmen carried my chair safely down a narrow flight of stairs. From there our party was guided through the mechanical part of the boat, past furnace, boiler, and machinery to the opening through which we would shortly land. As we neared the shore there was a great commotion on our floor, the boatmen hurried here and there as though greatly excited, while, forsooth, they were only making prep- arations to land. Besides the usual signals, The Traveling Trio 131 which were too loud to be appreciated, the machinery creaked and the boat groaned as it swung around to the shore. There was little of interest connected with our lay-off in Coeur d' Alene City, so we will pass it by. On the following eve at sunset our trio took the train for Spokane a city of eighty thousand inhabitants. The dust of darkness slowly settled on the earth, as our train rushed to- ward the glowing west. Never before had the writer seen such a glorious sunset; the sky before us was aflame with beautiful colors which the artist could not portray. We accepted the brilliant foreground as an omen of good, and rolled merrily on to the uncertain- ties awaiting us. As our trio were strangers to the approach- ing city, the conductor w^hose run ended in Spokane, was questioned as to desirable hotels. He soon referred us to the Petticord Hotel, a large structure conducted on the European plan. As we neared the city a beautiful sight met our eyes, against the dark background of night were myriads of shining gems, a garden of flowery disks, which were at close range electric lights. 132 The Traveling Trio A DAY IN SPOKANE. i POKANE is named after a tribe of jj§|| Indians, meaning the children of the sun. This city with its beautiful sur- roundings and magnificient water power, is the business center of eastern Wash- ington. It unfolds much for the admiration and entertainment of the tourist. But our party had little time to devote to sight seeing. After a late breakfast we prepared ourselves for the street, whose hum of activity could be plainly heard within. When a few books had been sold and a little shopping done, we de- cided to look up Professor Schoedler, a great musician whose musical education had been completed in Germany. The Denver correspondent whom we met in Wallace, was a friend of his and he had re- quested us to call on the musician while in Spokane, saying that our trio would be favored with a musical treat if we informed the musi- cian that he had sent us. We had no trouble in finding the grand auditorium, where we learned from the elevator The Traveling Trio 133 boy that Professor Schoedler's study was on the topmost floor. In a few moments our party and two other passengers were on the fifth floor which was as high as the elevator went. After seeing me located in a pleasant place near a window, the girls proceeded up two flights of stairs in quest of the musician's study. The reader may think the writer was a trifle lonely during theirabsence, but such was not the case. My time was occupied by our elevator companions, a bright young woman and her restless little son. The former I soon learned had followed for the purpose of talking Christian Science. She certainly meant well, and the writer has nothing whatever against her, but for certain reasons of my own I could not absorb or appreciate her animated dis- course. It happened that I had come in contact with Christian Science before, to the detriment of the belief. Forsooth, I was once treated by one of their healers, who proved of no benefit to me. Shortly after my experi- ence with him, the man was driven out of the city because he permitted a lady to die, when medical aid would have saved her. My efforts to introduce a new subject of mutual interest were in vain. The persistent stranger continued to spin out Christian Sci- 134 The Traveling Trio ence. Every now and then the weary listener had a moment of relief, caused by the restless little boy who had been left to amuse himself. In doing this he occasionally leaned out of the open window, to the great alarm of his mother; at such times when her child was in danger of being crushed on the pavement below, the anxious woman forgot Christian Science and its wonderful power over the mind. Under the circumstances the girls' return was a welcome interruption; they informed me that Professor Schoedler would play for us in the music store across the street, if we would meet him there in a few moments. Our trio at once descended in the elevator, accompanied by the Christian Scientist and her child who followed us to the music store. Shortly after our arrival the musician entered ; he was tall and slender, with a dignified bearing. With a pleasant greeting he seated himself before one of the pianos. It is impossible for words to describe the soul-thrilling melody he produced, hence I simply say it was sublime and inspiring. When the last selection had died away in a low and sweet murmur, we ex- pressed our sincere appreciation of the musical treat. After this Professor Schoedler spent a The Traveling Trio 135 few moments in conversation with our party before taking his departure. After the noonday repast, we set out to find a Nebraska friend employed as stenographer by the Great Northern Railroad Co. A pleas- ant walk of many blocks brought us to the three story depot, only to find that my friend had been transferred to a suburban station several miles away. The place could be reached by street car, but as our trio expected to leave Spokane that night, we had no time to spend in side trips. While retracing our steps we chanced to meet the Christian Scientist and a lady of the same belief. Once more we were presented with the tiresome subject of the morning, with the wish that we call on a certain woman who had been wonderfully healed through Christian Science. The party referred to was then assisting her husband in a small store some distance away. Now it happened that I had frequently heard of such marvelous cures, but unfortu- nately I had never seen or known the party, who received a blessing, hence the writer was a trifle curious to meet this particular woman. Finally one of the ladies and I decided to remain in the entrance of a public building 136 The Traveling Trio while the others went to look up the woman in question. During their absence we had an interesting debate on Christian Science. My companion had the courage to say pain was a mere fancy, and there was no need of being ill; by studying Christian Science literature and by accepting the right thought, one would receive health and happiness. But alas, her well meant words fell on desert air, the writer has suffered enough to know that pain is a stern reality; if this be untrue, what about the young babe whose undeveloped mind is not capable of imagination? After a long interval of colic, the pathetic cries of the little one suddenly cease. The pain has departed, and the babe is at ease. Was this merely a piece of imagination? No, indeed. The writer also knows that sickness, as well as death can not always be prevented ; they will eventually visit every home in the land. If this were not so, why do the Christian Scientists wilt before the power of disease, or yield to the great reaper's scythe? After a lengthy absence, the wanderers returned from their fruitless search. The store they sought had been transferred to other quarters, and their new address could not be ascertained. The Traveling Trio 137 The westbound train was unusually late that night, despite the fact that a large crowd of people awaited its coming. At first our trio ate chocolates and chatted on various subjects of interest, but after a time this proved monotonous, and we were content in watching our fellow travelers. A belated train in the hours of the night is an X-ray which brings the true character of a man to the surface. Those who make the best of what comes, always find something to occupy their time. When not conversing with fellow travelers, they read a little or take a few restful naps. But there are others who apparently think the world was made for them; instead of patiently enduring what can not be helped, they annoy the station agent with questions as to where the train is now, or when it will arrive. When not occupied in this manner, they grumble and frown at their fellowmen, as though they were to blame for the inconvenience. It was one o'clock, when the whistle of our train aroused the weary passengers to activity. With grips, lunch boxes and children, the crowd prepared to make their way to the door. At this point a gentleman employed in the depot, came to inform us that our party should be the first to 138 The Traveling Trio leave the building. We followed him as ad- vised, and it was somewhat amusing to watch him part the grumbling crowd before us. Fi- nally we reached the door, which to our great surprise had been locked to keep people back. Another employee standing on guard, im- mediately opened the door and our trio passed safely out. As we proceeded down the plat- form between two trains the depot watchman overtook us; he kindly escorted our party to the westbound train, before bidding us a cheery good night. After reading these acts of kindness, the reader will cease wondering why this book was dedicated to the railroad employees. The Traveling Trio 139 OUR EXPERIENCES IN PASCO. g|g| HE next three days being uneventful, Pill they will be omitted from these pages. However, in the next few towns we heard much regarding Pasco, a small town farther west. The information was not complimentary, hence it was with some mis- givings that we finally landed in the place mentioned. The darkness had settled over the landscape, and being unfamiliar with the town, we entered the depot to make inquiries. A hotel porter soon interviewed us, but as he did not make favorable impressions on our trio, we accepted the night watchman's kind offer to assist us in finding a hotel. Having had no supper, our trio visited a cafe near by, where we partook of light refreshments, while our escort went in quest of a lodging place. His efforts were unavailing, however, and we were obliged to patronize the hotel whose porter we had previously met. The large room assigned us had evidently served as a parlor sometime, for it possessed a piano, as well as an outside door opening on the street. 140 The Traveling Trio Ruth could play some and our entire party- could whistle and sing to a certain extent. Therefore we had several private entertain- ments, which we afterward learned were enjoyed by a fourth party. This individual was a wayward young man who had for some time been confined to an adjoining room. We learned that he had been seriously injuried while intoxicated, by falling from the plat- form of a passenger train. Sick, alone and among strangers, far from his eastern home it was certainly a sad picture of blighted man- hood, painted in the shades of strong drink by the hand of evil associates. The next day proved showery, but this did not prevent our party from seeing the town. The writer usually accompanied the girls, for the pure rain drops were preferable to the sentimental porter; he became very annoying at times, thanks to the habit of drink, which will make a fool of any man. A number of books were sold, and the even- ing found us at the depot in readiness for the westbound train. Shortly after our entrance a woman on the opposite side of the waiting room began weeping in a distressed manner. Dera went to ascertain the cause of her grief, and to offer our assistance. After telling her The Traveling Trio 141 sad story which was poorly connected, the woman finished by saying she had been un- kindly treated at the hotel we had patronized. Her statement seemed incredible and we felt doubtful as to her sanity, nevertheless our trio went to the hotel for the purpose of making inquiries. No one knew who the woman was, or where she had come from. We learned she had behaved strangely at the hotel and the inmates came to the conclusion that she was demented. We returned to the depot, but not to the woman you may be sure. She still had our sympathy, but we thought it advisable not to cultivate her acquaint- ance. A little later the woman w r as seized with the idea that she must leave town on the switch engine, a scene followed and the men had quite a time keeping her back. Before leaving Pasco, we were told that the woman had finally gone to another hotel for the night. This exciting event was followed by another, which helped to pass the time more quickly. Among the late arrivals, was a young man whose baggage consisted of a large roll of blankets; after placing them in a compara- tively safe location, he left the depot for a time. Shortly after his departure a second young 142 The Traveling Trio man entered with a business-like air, took possession of the blankets, with the curt remark that "the waiting room was no place for baggage," and hurried out. We supposed he was in some way connected with the depot, and thought no more of the incident. A little later the owner returned to find his prop- erty missing; on making inquiries he found that the depot employees had never taken his baggage, neither had they seen the young man who took it. The people in waiting were questioned as to his appearance, but no one was able to furnish a satisfactory descrip- tion. The color of his suit and the fact that his hat was tilted forward so as to shadow his face, were the only items of information obtained. The owner of the lost goods did not care particularly for the blankets, but it seemed the roll contained an expensive suit, a pair of new shoes and a number of other valuable articles. A search was made for the thief, but no trace of him had been found when our train arrived. When we told the baggage-master of the evening's events, he said that was nothing unusual for Pacso. Several nights prior to our arrival, a man The Traveling Trio 143 was shot at the depot. The reputation of the village was certainly founded on facts. Before reaching our next stop we crossed the Columbia River, which was only a mile in width at that point. 144 The Traveling Trio VISITING FRIENDS IN PUYALLUP. g¥|| HE next place of interest was Puyal- WlSm m P> where we landed one Saturday night. The writer had friends there, the Presbyterian minister and family, who were once residents of Nebraska. By following the night watchman's direc- tions, we soon reached the parsonage, which was shrouded in darkness. The family had retired, although the hour was not yet late. Several rings of the door bell aroused the sleepers on the second floor. The minister descended as soon as possible, thinking we were a couple who wished to be united in marriage. The next day being Sunday, we had an opportunity of hearing a good sermon from our friend's pulpit. During the afternoon two clergymen called to see the family. They took a great interest in our trio and the book "Crumbs of Thought." Before taking their departure one of the gentleman wished to purchase a copy, but as I never sold my literary work on Sunday, the The Traveling Trio 145 minister was told of the fact in a carefully worded phrase. The announcement, though unexpected, was received in the right spirit and he returned the money to his pocket saying, "That is all right, I admire your principles." Monday morning we awoke to find the sky overcast. We also learned something of greater importance, when Dera went out to sell a few books, namely that Puyallup had a law which prevented agents from canvassing in the town. This proved of great "inconven- ience to our party and we were glad there were no hotel bills to pay. That night after two days pleasantly spent with old friends, we took the train for Tacoma despite the falling rain. 10 146 The Traveling Trio TACOMA, THE CITY OF DESTINY. gjgglFTEEN miles riding brought us to ilii Tacoma, a city of 75,000 inhabitants. It is situated upon a high bluff that rises nearly 200 feet above tide water, and overlooks the broad expanse of Com- mencement Bay at the extreme southeast of Puget Sound, while the vast dome of Mount Tacoma glistens bright beneath its crest of snowy splendor. A railway has been built to the base of Mount Tacoma through a beautiful agricul- tural country. Therefore the tourist is able to view at close range the giant of all giants, while heretofore only the professional moun- tain climber cared to undertake the task. A fleet of about one hundred large ocean steamers are regular liners, plying between Tacoma and other ports of the world. The city's chief industries are shipping, commerce, lumbering, and her manufactures. Tacoma is a beautiful place for the summer tourist, because of its commanding situation, and its pleasant surroundings. The Traveling Trio 147 On leaving our train we found that the clouds still yielded moisture, while darkness prevailed except where the electric lights shone. Once more our trio received a kindness from a railroad employee, who phoned to the near- est hotel, for the porter and umbrellas. It was not long before that gentleman appeared and we were soon pushing through the mud and rain. Before our destination was reached, we had a merry time ascending a steep place in the walk. The slippery condition of things, made progress a trifle slow but finally after many humorous attempts, we mounted the difficulty and reached the Newport Hotel. The Nebraska trio's first appearance was far from charming, thanks to Washington's autumn rain, which would take the starch out of anything. Forsooth, it actually penetrated the writer's rain-proof robe on this occasion, but in spite of wet clothing and inclement weather we kept the fire of humor burning brightly with merry jests, which enabled us to see the sunny side of our situation. Among the things Miss Dera had carried was a sack of delicious fruit. The last moment before leaving Puyallup, she found that her 148 The Traveling Trio manicure set had been omitted in packing, therefore it was hurriedly thrust in the sack with the fruit. When we arrived at the hotel in Tacoma, the first thing noticed was, to our great amusement, the empty sack which Dera carried. The bottom had dropped out and the contents were gone. As soon as a room had been put in readiness for our trio, we retired without delay. In so doing our party derived no harm from the night's experience, and the morning found our clothing dry and our spirits high. Once more the city's hum of activity reached our ears, and we arose to meet what the new- born day had to offer. The Newport Hotel had been but recently erected, therefore the interior had that clean fresh appearance not found in every hotel. The room we occupied was furnished in pink like the flush of dawn. While the apartment next to ours was furnished in a soft shade of green. When breakfast was over we proceeded to the postoffice. Dera received a letter from "Brown-Eyes" who expected to arrive in Tacoma that very morning; in conclusion he requested her to drop a card in the office in- forming him of our new location. The Traveling Trio 149 The forenoon passed pleasantty and profit- ably; after procuring a permit from Mayor Wright, our party sold a few books while view- ing a portion of Tacoma. Among the objects of interest we did not see was the Old Town Church; the bell tower of this church is the oldest on the continent. It is a tree stump overgrown with ivy, and of great age, as indi- cated by its 600 rings. Upon this the bell was placed, forming a most unique bell tower. With the hour of noon we returned to the hotel, where to our surprise we found "Brown- Eyes" awaiting us. As usual I took dinner in our room, while Ruth and Dera ate theirs in the dining room. On this occasion the girls were joined by our friend, the magazine writer. After dinner our entire party visited the Salvation Army quarters and the City Hall. While in the latter we ascended to the fifth floor, which was as far as the elevator went. From this height we had a fine view of the water front, where a number of ships and steamers lay motionless. It was here that "Brown-Eyes" made use of his camera brought for that purpose. Some time was spent on this floor, where much of interest could be seen from the large windows. When weary of gazing on objects below, our party 150 The Traveling Trio conversed on travel, and talked over past experiences of which many have been recorded in this volume. As the afternoon was slipping westward, our trio made preparations to do likewise, as we expected to leave on the next train. The Traveling Trio 151 THE DISAPPEARANCE OF RUTH. SHORT ride brought us to the little |i village of Roy, where we were destined to pass many anxious hours. After Dera and I had been assisted from the baggage car, our trunks were thrown on the platform and the train rolled on its way. It was then that we discovered the absence of Ruth ; as she was not in sight, we supposed she had entered the depot for something, but a search failed to reveal her. The sudden turn of affairs filled us with great uneasiness as well as surprise, hence we lost no time in con- sulting the station agent. He gave us a grain of consolation by saying, if Ruth had been carried on by mistake, the conductor would undoubtedly send her back on the next train which was due in an hour. It was then supper time, so we proceeded to a hotel near by, not only for refreshments, but partly for a diversion of some kind. The eastbound train arrived when expected, but Ruth was not among its passengers. The hotel people were exceedingly kind, but their 152 The Traveling Trio efforts to keep us at the hotel were in vain. The writer could not sleep or rest, until we had ascertained a clue of Ruth's whereabouts. It was about nine o'clock when Dera and I returned to the depot, where we found the door bolted, but after a volley of vigorous raps we were admitted by the young station agent. The door had been fastened for the purpose of keeping out tramps, having been frequently annoyed by them at that time. The agent took a brotherly interest in our party and the writer shall never forget his unlimited kindness. All through the long weary night he kept the wires working in our behalf. Several messages of inquiry were sent to towns along the line, but no one an- swering to Ruth's description had been seen. The agent succeded in reaching the con- ductor at a station some distance farther west ; his answer certified that the girl described had left the train at Roy. Now we knew this was untrue, so another message was sent to the moving conductor. While this was tran- spiring, Dera and I were trying to find comfort in the waiting room. It was one of those two-by-four places, bordered on three sides by hard unrelenting seats, rightly called the traveler's trial. The Traveling Trio 153 In the center of this small waiting room stood a stove, whose heat producing qualities could not be surpassed. It was simply im- possible to get beyond the hot waves of that black monster, unless one moved out in the night air. But this was not the only thing we had to contend with; our second and worst annoy- ance was an intoxicated man, who spent the entire night in our presence. The young man was neatly attired in a fashionable suit of the day. We afterwards learned that he came from a prominent family in Tacoma, but owing to evil habits and a roving disposition, his father had publicly denounced him. After purchasing a ticket for Tacoma, the young man seated himself on our side of the waiting room. We paid no attention to him, and silence reigned, until he offered to hold Dera's cap she had removed from her head. This brought forth an indignant answer from her ladyship, which fortunately was received in the best of humor. His familiarity caused Dera some uneasiness, hence she drew back in the corner, so that the writer and her chair formed a barricade of safety in the foreground. Our fellow traveler then turned his atten- tion in my direction. Before lighting his 154 The Traveling Trio cigarette he asked if smoke was offensive to me. When I honestly confessed too much was unpleasant, he agreed to be very careful in raising smoke. The writer supposed he would spend part of the night in sleep, but such was not the case, for he became more restless as well as thirsty. A number of trips were made for fresh water, obtained in a pail borrowed from the station agent. When not engaged in this manner he smoked or lighted cigarettes, which persisted in going out. Occasionally the fire received a series of pokes, despite the fact that it was already performing its duty. Each attack on the stove was followed by an inquiry as to whether I was too warm, if so, he would move me far- ther from the stove. Now for once I stretched the truth by answering in the negative. First, I did not care to accept his attentions, for on such occasions distance is the only thing that can lend a charm. Second, I knew it was impossible to move beyond the heat, except through the outside door. Anxiously we awaited the conductor's second message which came about midnight; it informed us that he had seen nothing of the missing girl. Such hopeless news received in The Traveling Trio 155 the somber hours of the night was somewhat depressing. The telegram seemed to confirm the writer's fear that Ruth had been kidnaped before leaving Tacoma. If she was not on the west- bound train, where could the girl be, and should we find her? The problem was more than we could solve, so the long sleepless hours passed slowly by, as the preceding ones had done. When the third and last message had been sent to the conductor, a deeper silence settled on the depot. Dera fell asleep in her corner, and the agent's regular snore told of the rest he was taking. Our fellow traveler laid down on the seat, but just as the writer had decided it was safe to take a nap, if such a thing were possible, the young man suddenly arose as though sleep was his last intention. Therefore my eyes never closed that night, although I was nearly ex- hausted from anxiety and the loss of sleep. Someone has said it is always the darkest before dawn, so it proved in our experience. As the ebony-winged prince of night was about to take its flight, the station agent entered the waiting room with the conductor's last message. With eagerness mingled with 156 The Traveling Trio dread we listened to what he had to say. It chanced to contain good news, however, in- forming us of Ruth's whereabouts. The telegram had reached the conductor a short distance east of Portland, where the trains are ferried across the Columbia River. Our third message proved more effective than the rest, for it aroused the ticket puncher into activity. By inquiry he learned that the brakeman had not helped Ruth from the train at Roy, as he had been requested to do. On making this discovery the conductor proceed- ed to search the train in quest of the missing girl; finally among the many passengers who had through tickets to Portland where the ex- position was then in progress, he found Ruth. On being questioned as to her destination she coolly informed the conductor that she was going to Roy. When he told Ruth that she was then about 150 miles west of that town, she expressed some surprise but was not at all frightened, as one would suppose. On reaching Portland the conductor wired the good news, with the assurance that Ruth would be sent back on the next train. Now strange though it may seem under the circum- stances, the writer actually had enough wits left to wire a request that Ruth be put off The Traveling Trio 157 at Centralia, where we expected to go that day. It was a town thirty miles west of Roy, so one car fare of ninety cents was saved, yet it did not begin to compensate for the night's experience. As morning advanced and our fellow trav- eler became sober, he seemed somewhat ashamed of his degraded condition. But after our trying ordeal, to which he had contributed much, Dera and I did not hesitate in showing our disapproval of his conduct. In conclusion he received a brief temperance lecture, which may have fallen on desert air, yet if our well-meant words were not effective, we at least know that they were of temporary interest to the young man. 158 The Traveling Trio A TRIP ON THE COLUMBIA RIVER. FTER three uneventful days spent in Centralia and Winlock, we reached Kalama, a hilly town of 600 inhabi- tants situated on the east side of the Columbia River. At this point where the trains are ferried across, the river is two and one half miles in width. After leaving the depot our trio proceeded up one of the business streets, or I should sa}^ we made a courageous attempt to reach the residence part of town, where a certain family kept boarders. The streets were actually so steep in places, that people bent forward and dug their heels in, in order to make the ascent. Therefore the girls had quite a time pushing the writer's chair up the incline. Like many places in Wallace, Idaho, were the highest points in Kalama. It was frequently neces- sary to mount a flight of stairs before reaching the property where some of the homes were erected. These people in their lofty positions not only had an opportunity to look down on their The Traveling Trio 159 neighbors, but they also had an excellent view of the picturesque country. To our great displeasure we were obliged to accept a room on the second floor while in Kalama ; the apartment was all right, but the location was extremely inconvenient for the writer. On the eve after our arrival we view T ed a beautiful sight from the west window of our room, namely, the sunset on the Columbia River. Shortly before the golden disk vanished, a small cloud concealed it for a moment, still from beneath a cloud a stream of sunlight slipped to the river below. Quickly it spanned the dark waters, This lovely, bright ribbon of light, A bridge o'er which the wee fairies Might hurry to meet the fair night. On the afternoon of our sojourn in Kalama we took the steamboat, P. J. Potter, for Port- land, Oregon. The weather was very cool and misty, hence we spent our forty mile ride in the comfortable salon, where there were a number of passengers. As soon as the purser had collected our fare, we proceeded to get the best out of our trip which proved more pleas- ant than we had anticipated. 160 The Traveling Trio Smoothly we glided up the great river, while afternoon receded with the passing scenes. When the time for meals arrived, many of the passengers took supper on the boat, but we preferred to wait until our destination was reached. Before coming to Portland harbor our boat passed through a draw bridge, which in opera- tion was something new to us. As the veil of twilight was softly falling the P. J. Potter drew up before the landing. Having never been in Portland before, our trio knew nothing whatever about the place or its accommodations. However we knew a great crowd invaded the city, for the Lewis & Clark exposition was drawing to a close. On the following day we intended to con- tinue our boat ride to Newberg, therefore our trio went on board the steamboat Ruth, which expected to start early in the morning. Under the circumstances we preferred a night on the water to one in the great city. In order to reach the boat it was necessary to cross a narrow plank. It was over this uncertain footing, that two sailors bore the writer in her chair. As we were about to start one of the car- The Traveling Trio 161 riers requested a third sailor to hold the plank steady so it would not slip. The remark gave me an impression that my position was not the safest in the world. On reaching the boat it was discovered that my chair was a trifle too wide for the narrow stairway, but the jolly boatman soon found a way out of our difficulty. In a few minutes the wheels and axle were removed which ena- bled the chair to pass up the stairway without danger of being stuck. Some of my readers may fancy that our accommodations were far from desirable, but such was not the case. Shortly after our arrival on the boat, a delicious lunch was prepared us by the steward. The long trip and the lateness of the hour enabled us to enjoy the meal with genuine appetites. The rest of the evening passed quickly and pleasantly, the only outside interruption being the steamboats which occasionally passed. As their electric flashlights swept the harbor, they streamed through the salon windows, almost blinding us with their glare. Dera and Ruth had a refreshing night's rest in the stateroom they occupied, but the writer 11 162 The Traveling Trio did not fare so well. Once more my chair behaved badly and refused to enter the girls' stateroom, hence I was obliged to do the next best thing, which was to remain in the salon near their open door. The writer was not afraid, but the newness of our surroundings made me somewhat nervous. All through the long night the watchman's tread could be heard in different parts of the boat, while the silence was frequently broken by the whistle of some steamboat, which in passing caused our boat to rock gently in the swell. The Traveling Trio 163 A STEAMBOAT RIDE ON THE WILLAMETTE RIVER. jgsjiS HE next morning after a good break- iPlii fest no hotel could excel, we started on our journey down the Willamette river. About fifteen miles from Port- land we enjoyed a new experience of forty minutes duration, while passing through the Oregon City locks. As soon as the massive gate closed behind us, the water banked up until our boat was raised to a certain height, then we passed through the second gateway, which in turn was closed to hold the water. In this manner we passed three gates and reached the desired height which enabled the Ruth to continue on her way. During the forenoon we stopped a number of times to accommodate passengers, or to take on wood, which was used to navigate the boat. As we steamed up the Willamette river, a variety of picturesque scenes unrolled before us, many of which were woodland views, most beautifully arrayed in autumn shades. 164 The Traveling Trio Afternoon overtook us before our pleasant ride of twenty-six miles came to an end at Newberg. The landing was a woodsy nook with a hilly background and a water front. The pretty town of Newberg was situated a mile from the boat landing. It had a popula- tion of one thousand, many of whom were Christian people, the class that make strangers feel they are not in a far country. This thriving little town is located in Che- halem valley. It has been frequently called the white city by travelers, because of the quantity of white paint used on its buildings. On his tour of inspection, the visitor will find much of interest in Newberg. It claims distinction of having more manufactories than any town in the state twice its size. Among the eleven manufactories is a pressed brick concern, the only one in the state. The town also possesses a public school, the Friends College and seven churches. One of the chief industries in the productive valley is hop growing. No other crop has yielded such returns or given so much employment to the willing workers in that vicinity. Within two miles from Newberg is found the great Dundee prune orchard, which is considered the largest in the world. In con- The Traveling Trio 165 nection with this is an evaporation plant, capable of handling the crop. Among other delicious fruits raised with infinite success is the cherry. One of these old trees has become quite renowned. It was planted in 1860, is forty feet high and fifty feet across its branches and it has frequently produced a ton of cher- ries at one picking. Nut culture has also received much at- tention in that locality, the soft-shelled wal- nut being raised with gratifying results. It is known to the credit of Newberg that no saloons have ever marred its business section. In this prosperous town our trio spent a pleasant week visiting Nebraska friends, whom the writer had not seen for years. The family had but two children at home, a brilliant young lady who taught in the public schools, and a dear little girl of four years. Vera was one of those sweet, well-behaved children, who had received the best of training. In fancy I see her yet as she chatted gayly while sitting on the arm of my chair. It is needless to say that her winning ways soon won the hearts of our entire trio. Shortly after our arrival in Newberg, Dera received another letter from "Brown-Eyes," who was taking in the Lewis & Clark Exposition. He expected to con- 166 The Traveling Trio tinue southward in a few days and hoped to see us again before we reached Ashland. Be- cause of the pleasure obtained in previous trips on the water, there was no hesitancy in choosing the steamboat route to Salem. On the forenoon of our departure we bade our friends an early good-bye in order to catch the boat. After a weary wait of several hours the Pomona arrived. It was then past the dinner hour and as our trio had forgotten to secure a lunch, we were obliged to refresh ourselves on sunshine and Oregon's gentle breezes. Among the many passengers was a lady who carried a large cage, containing seventeen canaries of different shades; it was indeed beautiful to hear and see the active band of feathered pets. Once more the grandeur of autumn un- folded as we glided southward on the Wil- lamette river. It w r ould be impossible to de- scribe the woodsy spots with their exquisite foliage. Some of the trees were arrayed in gorgeous colors, while others wore a mantle of delicate shades. During the afternoon we became acquainted with a number of congenial people, one of whom was a young man employed on the boat. From the writer's point of view he was meant The Traveling Trio 167 to fill a higher position in the world, for he possessed those pleasing traits and refine- ment of culture which raises a young man above the level. We also had an interesting interview with the engineer, who told us much concerning the Pomona and her mode of operation. His young wife frequently accompanied him on these trips and her knowledge of the boat en- abled her to navigate the Pomona as well as he. When the supper hour arrived our trio lost no time in joining the consumers. The ab- sence of dinner made supper doubly welcome. Several hours later when our boat touched the Salem pier, everything was shadowed by the wings of night. By the help of electric lights and a few inquiries we soon were located in a cottage hotel. Salem is a thriving little city of 14,000 in- habitants, situated on the main line, fifty- three miles south of Portland. It is the capital of the state and the county seat of Marion county. However, our trio's brief sojourn in the city made it impossible to in- dulge in sight seeing. The fact that we were nearing our destination, served to spur us onward. Hence our party spent but little time in the next few places. 168 The Traveling Trio OUR INTRODUCTION TO ASHLAND. UR last stop was in Roseberg, whose floral name is suggestive of the beauti- i ful. It was the twentieth of October but the roses were still blooming and the pampas plumes were nodding gayly in the autumn breeze. In this pretty town of four thousand in- habitants, our trio spent one day in a pleasant and profitable manner. That evening before our train arrived, a dispatch was sent to Ashland relatives, in- forming them of our approach. Our last trip was somewhat lengthy, but we did not enjoy it as on former occasions. Our trio were too drowsy from loss of sleep the night previous, and too anxious to meet our relatives, some of whom we had never seen. When the train stopped at Goldhill, the writer supposed we were nearing Ashland, but, alas, there were about thirty miles yet to cover. As the rest of our trip was up grade the train was provided with another engine at this place. The Traveling Trio 169 It was midnight when we reached Ashland and being unable to recognize our relatives, we left that for them to do. A moment after our arrival, two young men stepped forward to inform us they were our cousins. One was married and had a store near the depot, while the other was still enjoying single blessedness at home. A long walk through the chilly night air brought us to Uncle's home, where Auntie and Cousin Mae were awaiting us. We were comparative strangers, but it did not take long to become acquainted. The next morning before our toilet was completed, Uncle Robert swept into our room with an avalanche of welcome that almost took our breath away. He was a tall, stately old gentleman, who never did things by halves. After breakfast we were shown around the premises, where much of interest was seen and heard. When Auntie phoned the news of our arrival to Grandma, who resided in the oppo- site side of town, she insisted on our coming over before dinner. It was a beautiful Sabbath day, and the church bells were ringing when we started on 170 The Traveling Trio our long walk, accompanied by our single cousin, Lee. He was one of those lively young fellows, who made sunshine in the home when- ever he entered. When part way there we met five more relatives, who were going to church. Right here let me say, at that time we had seventeen relatives in Ashland and four in Medford, twelve miles distant. It is needless to de- scribe the meeting with Grandma, whom the writer had not seen for fourteen years; Ruth could not remember her at all, for she was only one year old when our grandparents moved out west. For two reasons our arrival in Ashland was not much of a surprise. First, our mother had mentioned the western trip, when writing to our folks. Second, a quantity of the writer's mail addressed in the care of Grandma had reached Ashland in advance of the Ne- braska trio. The Traveling Trio 171 EIGHT MONTHS IN ASHLAND. ^M EFORE continuing let me give you a ^jljjf brief description of Ashland. It is a * picturesque little city of five thou- !j sand inhabitants, situated in the Rogue River valley, three hundred and forty-one miles south of Portland, and four hundred and thirty-one miles north of San Francisco. Ash- land is framed in pineclad mountains, the highest of which is Ashland Butte. At this point the valley is too narrow for farming, but it is a rich mining, fruit-raising, and agricultural district, while near the city are two health-giving springs, one soda, and the other sulphur. Ashland is widely known as a health resort, because of its mild climate and high altitude, the elevation being three thousand feet. It is also the educational center of southern Ore- gon, having two large and modern public schools, one commercial college, and a state normal school. The city's excellent water supply is drawn from Ashland Creek, a clear mountain stream, which rushes through the business part of Ashland. 172 The Traveling Trio It was in this beautiful location with its abundance of luscious fruit and its profusion of lovely flowers, that we passed eight pleasant months. The first few weeks were spent in Grandma's cottage, then we adjourned to the home of our uncle and aunt where we spent most of our time. At Christmas time there was a happy re- union of relatives, nineteen members being present. After a bountiful dinner of good things, the Christmas tree was lighted in the darkened parlor. With eager joylit faces the entire party gathered around, while the presents were removed and the names read. Everyone was well remembered, from Grand- ma to the baby girls, Harriet and Marguerite. The only drawback to the never-to-be-for- gotten Christmas, was the absence of our home folks in Nebraska. On the second day of January, Ruth and I, accompanied by Cousin Mae visited a week with cousins at Medford. The schools were then having the usual vacation, so Ruth was able to leave without missing. Cousin Mae, who taught in the public schools, could also leave without inconvenience on her part. Dera who was also attending school, spent The Traveling Trio 173 the winter with friends on the opposite side of Ashland ; therefore we did not see her very often. The day after our return from Med- ford, she called to inform us " Brown-Eyes" was in the city. He had spent the previous evening with her and from what she said, we fancied there was more than friendship be- tween them. On February first, our Grandma suddenly left this vale of tears, for a better world beyond the azure dome. Three days later her re- mains were laid to rest in the pretty cemetery. It was a calm sunny day and the whole world seemed rejoicing. The writer still remembers how the meadowlark sang in the nearby trees, as though trying to console the grief - stricken people who gathered there. Ruth and I were glad that we reached Ashland in time to visit Grandma before her death, which was unexpected. When Easter morning dawned, Auntie's household arose early, for we were invited to a nine o'clock breakfast given by a married cousin some distance away. It took some hustling to accept the invitation, but we managed to arrive in time for the Easter breakfast. The long walk through the fresh morning air only sharpened our appetites, 174 The Traveling Trio hence we thoroughly enjoyed the meal, which was served in courses. One beautiful Sabbath day, we had a pleas- ant experience in the form of a picnic dinner. Uncle Robert took Ruth and Dera out to the Soda Springs where they had frequently wished to go. Auntie and I went to church after which we joined a party of relatives on their trip up the canyon. Our bachelor uncle who had always made his home with Grandma, had the pleasure of pushing my chair up the sloping path. About one mile from our starting point, we stopped in a woodsy place near a mountain stream ; it was in this peaceful, secluded spot where the crystal waters made music all the day, that we prepared and ate our wholesome dinner. The afternoon was pleasantly passed in reading, talking, and taking life easy; when evening approached and luncheon was over, we strolled down the canyon to Cousin's home, where we made ourselves presentable for church. Thus the delightful day passed, as all things do in this world. Right here let me mention my Auntie's front porch, on which the writer spent much of her time. It extended the width The Traveling Trio 175 of the house and was covered with Virginia creepers and climbing roses; when the latter were in bloom the porch was indeed a bower of beauty for the Rene Marie roses were a deep shade of pink. At eventide I frequently enjoyed a quiet time on this appreciated porch. Among the many night sounds was the well-known frog chorus, which never failed to reach my ears. So often did I listen to these water songsters, that I actually missed them when we returned to Nebraska. Among the many things enjoyed while in Ashland were the fragrant violets blooming in Auntie's yard. On the fourteenth of Janu- ary Uncle Robert brought me a bunch of these dainty blossoms which prompted the writer to compose the poem entitled, "My Flower Friend." Another pleasure was derived from the latest library books, which Auntie and Cousin Mae read aloud when supper was over. About twenty volumes were perused during the winter months. If the reader is fond of fish, he should dwell in the western states, where mountain trout and fresh salmon are daily extracted from the great streams. There is nothing so delicious, 176 The Traveling Trio in the writer's estimation, as a boneless slice of well cooked salmon. A short distance north of Medford on the Rogue river, may be found the Wray dam whose power furnishes the electric lights for Ashland. The trains often stop here for the benefit of their passengers, who find it interesting to watch the salmon climb up the ladders and over the dam. Our train once stopped in the evening, when the dam was all aglow with electric lights. The sight was indeed beautiful to behold. In the early spring our Nebraska uncle and his son went to Oregon for the purpose of looking up a favorable location. His wife and daughters did not follow until June, for the latter were attending the state normal. On April eighteenth our community was thrown into excitement by the news of the San Francisco earthquake. My readers have already heard and read of the great disaster, hence I will dwell but briefly on the subject. The people residing in the opposite side of Ashland felt the shock, despite the distance which lay between that city and the scene of destruction. The sulphur spring near town was affected by the quake, the volume of water The Traveling Trio 177 was twice its usual size, so that a larger pipe had to be used; while the water which was clear as crystal, became quite rily in appear- ance. Ashland like many other places, was quick to respond when the call for help was received. Later on a great many of the ref- ugees were fed, as they passed through Ash- land on their way north. At one time two cars containing children made the usual twenty minutes stop in our city. The little ones were being taken to a children's home, many of them having been deprived of parents by the earthquake. A number of Ashland people went to the depot, to view the pathetic band of children, who were of all ages. Several of the little ones found permanent homes in our city, having been adopted by kind-hearted people. It was the latter part of April, when Dera came over to announce her engagement to "Brown-Eyes"; they had kept up a lively correspondence during the winter, while he was viewing the grand scenes of Oregon and California. As they did not believe in long engagements, the wedding day was set for September first. Finally the beautiful month of May arrived, with its new supply of fruit and flowers. As 12 178 The Traveling Trio the last week was drawing to a close, there were the usual commencement excercises in the high school. Dera was among the sweet graduates, so we took a greater interest in the program than we would have done at any other time. When school closed, Dera and I took a trip down the valley in the interest of my literary work, while Ruth visited a friend in Grant's Pass. After spending a day in Gold Hill and Central Point, we retraced our trip to Med- ford, where several days were pleasantly passed with relatives. The writer's cousin was an intellectual young woman, having spent several years of her single blessedness as a school teacher. Her husband was an energetic young fellow with a cheerful dis- position, which frequently overflowed in a merry laugh, that did one good to hear. This particular cousin had a store in Medford and he was also a dealer in timber land, so his time was fully occupied. The other members of the household were two sweet little girls, who were not long in winning the love of their Nebraska cousins. Never before had I the opportunity of be- holding as many roses at one time ; the pretty yard contained a variety of roses of every shade The Traveling Trio 179 and size, some of which had to be plucked from the top of a step ladder, so high were the bushes on which they grew. Besides the climbing roses adorning both porches, there were the beautiful La France and Mareschal Neil, these were foremost among the writer's favorites, although I admired them all. It would be simply impossible for one to de- scribe the beauty and fragance which prevailed in that yard. But one thing is certain, the writer saw a larger quantity of roses on my cousin's premises, than were ever seen in one summer while in Nebraska. 180 The Traveling Trio OUR RETURN HOME. N June nineteenth our trio made prep- arations to take the midnight train for our home trip. We planned to return by the southern route, which was entirely new to us. Finally our last day in Ashland, with its excitement and extra tasks, came to a sad close. Ruth and I had become attached to our western relatives, so that we regretted exceedingly to bid them good-bye. It was hardest to leave Auntie, who had proved a second mother to us ; I shall never forget the many pleasures and comforts she added to our sojourn in Ashland. In the writer's estimation, the Auntie in question is truly the best woman in the state of Oregon. When midnight drew near and the last fare- wells were spoken, we started for the depot accompanied by Cousin Lee and our bachelor uncle. On making inquiries in regard to a permit to travel in the baggage car, the agent informed us it would be impossible to obtain such a thing, because of the dangerous road over which we must travel. As everything The Traveling Trio 181 was arranged for our departure, we felt that it would be best to leave that night. The agent suggested that I take a berth in the sleeper, and have my chair expressed through, which was contrary to our plans. As I spent my entire time in a rolling chair, whether at home or abroad, it seemed im- possible to travel in any other way; at that time I was not as strong as usual, therefore my long trip could be better enjoyed and en- dured if I remained in my chair, where fresh air could easily be secured through the bag- gage car door. The obliging agent did his best for our party by wiring a second time to headquarters. As the light of our train appeared in the distance, the agent approached with the superintendent's message. Only on one condition would he grant the desired per- mit, namely that I sign an agreement not to hold the railroad company responsible if any- thing should happen. As we were determined to leave that night, I lost no time in complying with the requirement. The latter part of the night w T as spent in crossing the Siskiyou mountains, but darkness prevented us from seeing the dangers over which our train safely bore us. However, I knew we were passing through a horseshoe 182 The Traveling Trio tunnel and across a trestle bridge, to say noth- ing of other uncertain places, where there had been a number of accidents during the winter. Every now and then the agent's words would flit through my mind, making sleep a series of naps. When morning dawned our trio spent some time in viewing the beautiful scenery before us. We were then in California rolling along in sight of Mt. Shasta, with its mantle of snowy splendor. It reminded the writer for all the world of a large frosted cake, until transformed by the rising sun. Old Mt. Shasta's grandeur was then enhanced by a rosy flush, which played for some time on its crust of purity. Later on Ruth entered the baggage car and we ate our first meal from the bountiful lunch Auntie had prepared. As our tickets allowed us a side trip to San Francisco, we for two reasons felt like taking advantage of the same. First, the stricken city was being rapidly rebuilt, and we would never again have the opportunity of viewing the scene of destruc- tion, as it was about two months after the earthquake. Second, our trio had never beheld the grand old ocean and it seemed a shame to leave the The Traveling Trio 183 golden west without a glimpse of the rolling deep. Therefore we decided to take the side trip mentioned. As evening advanced we reached the strait north of Oakland; over this our train with several others was safely conveyed across the water on a large ferry boat. Some distance farther on, another picture from nature's art gallery came to our vision. This was the sunset on the bay, an indescribable scene of tranquil loveliness, which brightened the eye and called forth exclamations of admiration from our trio. Finally we reached Oakland, where "Brown- Eyes" met us as he and Dera had planned. The depot was about two miles from the busi- ness center, but as trains ran up and down for the people's convenience, we soon reached the vicinity of hotels. "Brown-Eyes" was well acquainted with the city, having frequently visited an uncle residing there. On this occa- sion he was spending a few days with the rela- tive, whom he had not seen for some time. After leaving the train, we walked several blocks in order to reach a certain hotel. The evening was pleasant and the streets were brilliantly lighted by electricity, hence our brief outing was an enjoyable one. The 184 The Traveling Trio only vacant room in the hotel mentioned was on the second floor. We accepted the apart- ment, but owing to the fact that there had been a slight earthquake three days prior to our arrival, we had some doubts as to whether the morning would find us on the second floor. Early the next forenoon as we were making preparations for a trip to San Francisco, "Brown-Eyes" called to accompany us thither. The Traveling Trio 185 A GLIMPSE OF SAN FRANCISCO. Wf9 S we were being ferried across the bay, the writer could not help but won- der how many victims of the fire, lay beneath the water's smooth sur- face. This thought sprang from a report which was received shortly after the earth- quake. It was said that so numerous were the dead bodies, that it was impossible to give them the proper burial, therefore they received a watery grave in the bay. After arriving in San Francisco our party was for- tunate in finding a street car, with wide side doors, which admitted my chair. In this fashion we took a seven mile ride through the stricken city, where naught but blackened destruction met our eyes. The highest frame standing was that of the Call building, which somewhat resembled a skeleton, as it stood outlined against the sky. Among the pathetic scenes was the park of suffering humanity; it was there twenty-five hundred refugees were still being fed by the government — a large crowd of sad, homeless 186 The Traveling Trio people, many of whom had lost all they pos- sessed in the great disaster. Our lengthy car ride ended at the Cliff House, still standing in its old accustomed place, despite the report of its downfall. We were told the interior had been greatly dam- aged by the earthquake, so the building was locked to prevent people from entering. We quickly sought the beach below where part of the day was spent in a delightful man- ner. To the writer it was inspiring to watch the white-capped waves chase one another to land, where they broke on the sand with a musical splash. Then there was the deep roar of the ocean, mingled with other pleasing sounds, that one would never tire of hearing. When the noon hour arrived we ate our lunch on the beach, as did many others. To our party it was a pleasant novelty, this picnicing before the great Pacific, whose salty breezes cooled the atmosphere. When lunch was over, "Brown-Eyes" made use of his camera by taking a number of views, many of which were quite laughable. Some of the ease-loving people sat in groups on the beach, others strolled leisurely about, while a few who had donned bathing suits were in the The Traveling Trio 187 water furnishing entertainment for the on- lookers. There were also a number of bare- footed children, whose merry shouts and laughter told of the pleasure they found in wading. About three o'clock as the tide was coming in, we thought it advisable to start for Oak- land. Our trio was only allowed one day in the city, and the tickets which had been de- posited with the station agent, would prove of no value if we failed to take the six o'clock train. When our party proceeded to leave the beach, it was found impossible to roll my chair through the deep sand. But this dif- ficulty was soon overcome by a Brow T n-Eyes" and another gentleman, who carried the writer up the sandy incline. After purchasing cold drinks from a convenient stand, we took a car for the ferry building. When part way there our car gave out and no amount of tinkering could induce it to move, therefore the passen- gers were transferred to another car before our party had time to disembark. This made it necessary for us to wait on the street corner until another car came that way, which some- what delayed our arrival at the Union Depot in Oakland. 188 The Traveling Trio However, we had plenty of time in which to make preparations for our departure, and the eastbound train bore the traveling trio in the direction of their home. The writer shall never forget the kindness shown her party by the train crew, who did their uttermost to make our return trip a pleasant one. At the end of every division we were provided with a new crew, all of whom were perfect gentlemen. Several times the baggage-master gave up his cot to my companion, in order that she might have a good night's rest; the lights were turned out on our side of the car, hence we enjoyed the night as well as the day. One noon while Dera was making the writer some tea on an alcohol lamp before preparing our lunch, the baggage-master presented us with half a cake and pitcher of iced tea which he had made. Another time the conductor sent in a box of chocolates and some fruit he had purchased from the newsboy. One even- ing as the train made its usual stop for supper, Dera visited the depot hotel to obtain some- thing fresh in the eatable line. The baggage- master and brakeman also purchased a number of good things, after which we four had a sumptuous meal in the baggage car. The Traveling Trio 189 One night and part of a day were spent in crossing the Nevada desert. It was extremely warm when the sun shone, but after dark a chill crept over the landscape, and one needed plenty of wraps. However, this barren locality had proven to be the train robbers' favorite field of opera- tion. Each time after a hold-up, the robbers mounted their swift horses and sped away, leaving the occupants of the train compara- tively helpless, as they had no way of follow- ing the band. In connection with this the train men told us that the railroad company had devised a plan to capture the desperadoes, if they ever repeated their daring act. The road along this line was provided with the block system, which made safe traveling more of a certainty, as far as wrecks were concerned. One night our train suddenly stopped and there were loud exclamations, as well as shoot- ing outside the baggage car. We naturally supposed it was the prelude to a hold-up, but one of the train men told us five tramps had been forced to leave the train. At another time one white man and one 190 The Traveling Trio negro were removed from the top of the bag- gage car. Farther on we crossed eighteen miles of the Great Salt Lake, which was an interesting novelty to our trio. When the center was reached there was water on all sides and the swish of the wavelets against the track was pleasant to hear. On our return trip the girls were permitted to pass from baggage car to coach whenever desired. This made it necessary for them to pass through the buffet, dining car and sleeper, which divided our party. Shortly after leaving Green River, Dera decided to make Ruth a visit; her surprise can be imagined when she found there was no coach to our section. The train had been divided in two parts, and Ruth was on the second section. We had the tickets in our possession, therefore Dera and I were a little uneasy as to Ruth's outcome, but the kind conductor made it all right by wiring to the ticket puncher on Ruth's section. Shortly after midnight Dera and I reached Cheyenne, where several hours were spent before the appearance of Ruth. Two days prior to our arrival in this city, the writer received something in one of her The Traveling Trio 191 eyes, which became very painful before we reached Cheyenne. When daylight came we called the railroad physicion, who quickly extracted a small sliver from the optical organ, as well as sixteen bits from the writer's purse. Our next stop was in Denver, where we spent several hours in the great depot, because of the inclement weather which prevented us from seeing the city. It was here that our trio was greeted by the old familiar sound of thunder, the first we had heard since leaving Nebraska. It will be remembered there are no electric storms in the west, the absence of which was greatly appreciated by the writer. On Sunday forenoon we reached Lincoln, Nebraska, where our trio visited with old friends until the following day. We then took the train for our home town, Tecumseh. The writer's family did not expect us that day, hence our arrival was something of a surprise. The reader can imagine the rest, for after an absence of eleven months, there is much to be told as well as seen. 192 The Traveling Trio CONCLUSION. j HERE is little more to say in regard IP11I to the traveling trio, who have been separated since our return to Ne- braska. On September first Dera and ' 'Brown-Eyes' ' were united in marriage as previously planned. They are now r happily settled in an eastern city, where "Brown-Eyes" acts the part of literary critic on the magazine for which he once traveled. The writer and her sister Ruth are still at at home, which is now in Genoa, Nebraska. Thus ends the account of our western trip, with its humorous experiences and serious events. May the same interest and amuse the perusers of this volume, is the wish of the once traveling trio. MY FLOWER FRIEND. 1 Oh list to me sweet violet, Fairest blossom ever seen, While I sing to thee a ballad, Full of love I would not screen. The Traveling Trio 193 2 Such a dainty bit of sweetness, Clad in beauty ever rare, With thy shy face half averted, As though meekly bowed in prayer. 3 To behold thee is to love thee, Thou art small but very great, Hence my heart by thee is captured, Wooed by flowery fate. 4 Just a modest little blossom, Growing 'neath the foot of man, Yet thou hast a lovely mission, In the great Creator's plan. 5 Long I feast upon thy beauty, Freshened by the recent rain, May I also come forth better, After life's tempestuous strain. 6 Just the briefest bit of heaven Come to cheer a lonely day, Mine to love and mine to cherish, Till thou fadest quite away. 7 Ah, methinks I hear a whisper, Soft as any seraph's voice, Tis the blossom's fragrant answer, I too, love thee, so rejoice. 13 194 The Traveling Trio MISS DELAY'S BLACK DIAMOND. |>gfl|| HERE were two things always to be IPIli found at the Brownville store, to the great annoyance of the lady customers. These staple goods or unpleasantries were idle men and tobacco smoke. On this particular night there was an in- crease of both, because of the dark stranger who posed as a doctor, although he had not yet hung out his shingle. Presently the heavy door creaked on its frosty hinges and big Tim shuffled into their midst. The chorus of voices that greeted him, and his hearty response plainly told the stranger that the newcomer was a favorite among the loafers. The big Irishman was popular, not only because of his unlimited wit and humor, but because he was the village news budget. Big Tim never failed to contribute a delicious bit of gossip, thanks to his communicative * wife who had a way of prying into other people's affairs, until she frequently learned more than really existed. The Traveling Trio 195 But alas, the noisy little O'Briens were were sadly neglected by their mother, while the dilapidated place which they called home was a picture of filth and disorder. "Well Tim, have you any news tonight?" asked a bystander, as the big Irishman seated himself on a dry-goods box and began filling his old cob pipe. A good natured grin was the only answer, for nothing could draw Tim's attention from his constant companion. When the pipe had been filled and lighted, he pro- ceeded amid clouds of smoke to unfold his news. "I tell you, boys, it is the greatest thing ever happened in Brownville, beats any fairy tale you ever heard; for it's true. You boys all know Miss Delay, livin' in the big white house on the hill; well, she has found a black dia- mond, the regular thing, worth a powerful sum of money, they say." "Well I'll be dumb blasted," exclaimed a bystander; while the dark stranger glanced quickly up, taking a sudden interest in what Tim was saying. "I don't know where she keeps the valuable stone, but my wife said she kept lookin' at the book case, like there was something there. "When my wife asked her if she wasn't 196 The Traveling Trio afraid of burglars, seein' so many houses had been broken in, Miss Delay only laughed and said she wasn't afraid of an}^ man." The next night while the little village was wrapt in slumber, a dark figure might have been seen approaching the big house on the hill; for a moment it paused by the front window through which a dim light was visible, then with caution it crept around to the back door. The stars played peek-a-boo behind the dark clouds and the March wind shrieked wildly about the silent figure at work on the stubborn lock. Finally the door yielded beneath the skillful hands and with great stealth he entered the quiet kitchen. For a moment the dark figure listened intently, then satisfied that no one was stir- ring, he lighted a match by whose rays a door leading into an adjoining room was located; with noiseless steps the burglar made his way across the kitchen and through the open door. At this point his progress was suddenly checked; he had never been imaginative, neither was he superstitious; but nevertheless his courage was somewhat shattered by the unexpected sight from the depths of a dark corner. Two fiery eyes glared at him for an The Traveling Trio 197 instant, then with several terrible blinks they vanished. What the lights were, or where they had gone, was more than he could tell, but one thing was sure, he had come in quest of the black diamond and that he would find at any cost. By careful inquiry the dark figure had learned that the important bookcase stood in the third room on the right, therefore he proceeded in that direction. Presently he he came in contact with a door which was fortunately ajar; as it swung open he discov- ered a flight of steps leading upward, it was the stairway instead of the room he was looking for. With the speed of a snail he turned to re- trace his steps, when, horrors ! there appeared on the stairs the same fiery orbs he had seen before; they seemed to be coming nearer. Could it be the evil one himself? It was more than the dark figure cared to face; hence he made haste to leave the hall regardless of the commotion w T hich ensued. When safely beyond the focus of those shin- ing balls, the chill left his backbone and he felt more like resuming work. Never before in his existence had the dark 198 The Traveling Trio figure been so disturbed. After several mo- ments spent in listening, he assured himself that no one was coming and started out in the right direction. The next door, as luck would have it, was closed tightly, but the possibility of a black diamond on the opposite side was sufficient to spur him on. Slowly, with cautious movements the knob was turned and with a slight creak of disapproval the door opened to the desperado. Once more there was a pause with the same satisfactory results. All was well so far; this was certainly the third room on the right, where in the northeast corner the bookcase was supposed to stand. As this consoling thought passed through his mind, there was a rustle of paper in that very corner, followed by a peculiar noise not very pleasing to the listener, then all was quiet except the ticking of the clock. With courage undaunted the dark figure felt his way across the room, where his efforts were rewarded by finding the bookcase. The drawers were securely locked as ex- pected, so he drew a bunch of keys from' an inner pocket and began trying each one . While thus engaged he was startled by a slight sound above him and looking up he met the gaze of The Traveling Trio 199 those evil eyes ; they seemed to be peering over the top of the bookcase like two phosphorus disks. The keys fell to the floor with a jingle and he staggered back, then without warning the fiery orbs and their owner landed on the head of the terrified man. With a cry of pain he made a grand rush for the door, which, alas, was closed. He was then astounded by a flood of light and a woman's voice. Turning quickly he saw in the opposite doorway a slender, white- robed figure ; one hand was on the electric but- ton, the other held a revolver which was pointed directly at him. Her dark eyes were fearless and her voice had a cold determined ring as she said, ' 'You are my victim and there is no use trying to escape, if you value that mutilated visage of yours. Oh, you need not turn your back on me, Dr. Plank, for I recog- nized you as soon as the light was switched on. Now I wish to know why you have entered my home in this manner ?" The obstinate doctor wiped the blood from his face in silence. This was more than the little lady could bear. With an indignant stamp of her foot she continued, "I have a a great notion to shoot you just for the fun of 200 The Traveling Trio it, so if you wish to leave this place alive, I advise you to answer my question promptly." The doctor trembled slightly as he answered in a voice scarcely audible, "I came to find the black diamond." For an instant there was a puzzled expression on her face, then a smile dawned in the dark eyes and a merry laugh burst from the firmly set lips. "Ah, I understand now, Mrs. O'Brien started the whole thing and my precious Black Dia- mond has ended the affair. "How ridiculous that the name of my new pet should cause such a disturbance." Once more she laughed, glancing meanwhile at the beautiful cat, now busily smoothing its crumpled fur at her feet. "Well, Dr. Plank, the joke as well as the scratches seem to be on you, therefore you may go this time, but if you are ever seen in Brownville again, I shall have you arrested." TELL ME NOW. 1 Oft the human heart grows hungry For some tender word or smile, Yet the truth remains unspoken And one life is sad the while. The Traveling Trio 201 Ah, life's burdens seem much lighter, And the way is not so drear, When we have a bit of Heaven In the love of someone near. 2 While the springtime birds are singing, In the leafy bowers of green, And the flowers sweet are blooming On fair nature's lovelit scene; While the busy bees are humming, And the breezes whisper low, Let me hear the sacred message Tell me what I long to know. 3 If you care for me a little If you hold for me but love, Let me hear it now, my darling, Ere I pass to realms above. Do not wait until the morrow, We may never see that time, Let me hear the sweet confession, While my eyes with joy may shine. 4 Wait not till my ears are deafened, To the music of your word, Till my lips care not for kisses, Or the love so long deferred. Give today the fragrant flower, Crown with joy the living brow, Help to make this earth an Eden, If you love me, tell me now. 202 The Traveling Trio Out UNFAIRLY WON. T is in the good old summer time at Newport when love, life and beauty are playing their sweetest melodies on the harp strings of nature, on the shimmering tide beneath heaven's sunlit blue, is a gayly painted skiff. It is headed toward a small island a short dis- tance from the mainland. We see on close inspection that the skiff contains two occupants; the oarsman is a serious looking young man, while his com- panion, well, of course she is a girl, one of those charming little coquettes who never permits a serious thought to enter her foolish little head. But she, the beautiful Fay LaGrange, is not wholly to blame for her shallow life. She was reared in the lap of luxury with fashion and pleasure for her guide books, hence it is not surprising that she is an aimless butterfly and a heartless flirt. Of course she has suitors galore, from the portly Judge Brown with his bald head and alluring bank account, to the handsome oarsman before her. Of all her The Traveling Trio 203 admirers this season he is the favorite but she did not intend he should ever find it out. No, indeed, that would spoil everything. • Now it happened that this sensible Robert Gray with all his noble ideas had fallen captive to her charms. Yes, he is deeply in love with this frivolous girl despite the cruel manner in which she sometimes treats him. What is more he means to win the heartless beauty who delights in wounding her fellowmen. He would show her that he laughs best who laughs last. Presently she glances in his direction with one of those bewitching smiles. "Well, you you are certainly an interesting companion, so talkative. I know you have not spoken a dozen words since we left the beach. One would think from your ruffled brow that you were trying to solve some mathematical prob- lem. Now do say something for I hate stupid people." He answered her with a pair of expressive brown eyes but she failed to understand their meaning. "If you desire an afternoon of thought and quietude I would much rather have accepted Judge Brown's invitation, he is such a brilliant man and so entertaining*:" After these well 204 The Traveling Trio aimed remarks she began humming a popular air with her eyes fixed dreamily on some dis- tant object. This was more than the young man cared to take in silence. He ceased rowing and leaned forward as he spoke. "The problem I was trying to solve is not in mathematics but in woman kind. It was you." The unexpected answer brought an ex- pression of surprise to her face but her voice retained its sweet composure as she said, "Oh, you ridiculous boy to waste so much brain power in trying to solve an impossiblity. It is needless to ask whether your efforts were successful, I already know that. You see it is a difficult problem which man has never been able to solve. To tell the truth we women frequentty find it hard to understand ourselves." A mischievous light glows in her azure eyes while the dimples play hide and seek in her fair cheeks. She wonders what he will say next. At this point the skiff touches land and without waiting for assistance the independent girl springs lightly overboard. She strolls a short distance along the beach then pauses near a large rock with her back toward the skiff. The Traveling Trio 205 An observer would think from her attitude that she is deeply interested in the scene before her while, forsooth, the frivolous girl scarcely sees the shining beach with its picturesque background of cliffs and sky. Her shallow mind is occupied with thoughts of Robert Gray who presently joins her. He is greatly displeased with the little beauty and for an instant he is on the verge of telling her so but armed with the assurance that his time to play is near at hand he conceals his feelings beneath a mask of smiles and suggests that they stroll around the cliff where a better view may be obtained. A few moments later the opposite side is reached and Fay utters an exclamation of delight as she seats herself on a flat rock overlooking the ocean. "Oh, how perfectly delicious to find such a cosy seat where everything can be seen while we rest our weary bones! Just look at those little waves chasing each other to the shore! I just love to hear them break on the sand. It is such a soft, musical sound, but of course you don't enjoy that, men never do." At this point she apparently notices for the first time that he remained standing. "Oh, you self-sacrificing old bear! Why don't you sit down? I guess this seat is large enough 206 The Traveling Trio for two if you feel disposed to occupy the same rock with me." He gladly accepts the invitation and for a time they sit in silence with their eyes on the rolling deep. The tide is coming in and he rejoices in the fact, for it is to be his accom- plice in carrying out the dearest wish of his life. The time for commencement arrives and manlike he begins to beat around the bush instead of going directly at it. "Fay, do you remember what I said to you yesterday morning while we were gathering shells on the beach?" "Well, I must admit that I have forgotten. You talked so much and said so little of im- portance. Now please don't expect me to reproduce everything heard for I am not a phonograph record if you do take me for one." She acted the role of injured innocence so per- fectly that the young man smiled in spite of her cutting words. He simply could not help it, yet the persevering lover had no intention of being baffled by the lady of his choice. "Fay, you are unfortunate in possessing such a treacherous memory; but can you not recall the new specimen of seaweed we found yester- day?" The Traveling Trio 207 She nodded in the affirmative without look- ing in his direction. "Then you certainly remember the question asked. You can not forget so important a thing, although you postponed your answer. Now you know very well what I am alluding to and what is more I want your answer before we leave the island." A pink flush creeps over the girl's face and she becomes intently interested in the pebbles at her feet as she replies in slow, uncertain words, "Yes, I do remember something about it. You asked if I would enjoy studying botany and said that you would be my instruc- tor. Now I really would take pleasure in the study if you will promise not to scold when I forget.' ' Robert Gray was simply astounded at the the little actress by his side but remembering the past when on two occasions he had failed in telling the sweet old story he resolves that the third time should be a charm. After capturing one of her small white hands he ex- claims, "Fay, there is no one quite so provok- mgly dumb as the person who will not under- stand. You remember very well what I said. You know that I wish you to be more than a 208 The Traveling Trio friend to me, something nearer and dearer, little girl." She raised her golden head and drew her hand shyly from his grasp. Once more the mischievous light was visible in her eyes as she sweetly said, "Robert, I am honestly sorry for you, you have spoken too late. You see sister Mae is to marry Dr. West next month and sister Beth, the dear child, is only ten years old. You would have to wait quite a while for her and then maybe she wouldn't have you." Before the bewildered lover could detain her Fay sprang from the rock with a merry laugh and started in the direction of their boat. "I'm going back to the mainland. Good-bye, you foolish boy." These were her farewell words, not much like the leave-taking of some girls he knew. The beach is now partly covered by water and the tide continues to rise. The young man follows in pursuit of his fair companion smiling wickedly the while. As she disap- pears around the cliff he hears an exclamation which does not seem to surprise him in the least. "Robert! Robert! Our boat is gone. Whatever shall we do? Oh, there it is danc- ing on the waves. Swim out and get it quick !' ' The Traveling Trio 209 The young man shook his head decidedly. "I wouldn't spoil my new suit and run the risk of losing my life for all the boats of New- port. Just let her go to Honolulu if she likes. I don't care." The girl's face bore a frightened expression and her voice was full of pathos. She was no longer a saucy little coquette. "You must be insane, Robert. Don't you know at high tide that everything on this island is covered with water except the largest rocks? Oh, do get the boat, we shall both be drowned." Once more he shook his head. No, Fay, if we must be drowned like rats in a trap I would much rather die with you. It seems terrible for our young lives to end in this way, but after all it doesn't matter much. The ocean may be cruel but it can not be more cruel than you have been. She clung to his arm and there were tears in her eyes as she spoke, "Please stop talking in that doleful manner. You make me feel so creepy. See how fast the water is covering the beach ! Oh, I wish Judge Brown were here, he would save me I know." Robert Gray turns his head to conceal a smile, then he suggests that they mount a 210 The Traveling Trio large rock so as to cheat the waves as long as possible. When they are safely located Fay says in the shyest of voices, "Robert, you are perfectly horrid to think me cruel, for I really don't mean to be. There is nothing cruel in a harmless flirtation and a girl must do something to pass away the summer. You are too exacting and a little old-fashioned in your ideas. Now there is Judge Brown, he flirts every day of his life, if he has a bald spot on his head." These remarks are apparently unheard by the young man. He is greatty interested in the waves which will roll higher and higher each moment. Presently his attention is turned to the frightened girl. He is touched by her agitated face and wishes he could undo what he has so recklessly done. A manly arm is placed about her and a tender voice is heard above the ocean's roar. "Fay, our position is far too serious for further nonsense. It is time we ceased this play of deception. Now before the ocean sweeps us from this rock I wish you to answer yesterday's question. It would be much easier to drown if I knew the truth." At the mention of death she trembled once more but the keen ears of her lover were quick The Traveling Trio 211 to catch the much desired answer. The scene which follows can only be imagined, for there are no words to portray it. A little later our friends were rescued by a boatman as planned beforehand by "that horrid Robert Gray" who declared that all is fair in love and war. IS IT WRONG? When the long weary day has vanished, Through the dim portals of the west, When the shades of night prove a blessing To all who are sorely oppressed. Is it right, I oft times wonder, To be glad that the day has flown? Is it wrong for us to be thankful, We are one step nearer the throne? H 15 89 *.**?.* V 4> O* * my \W/ vw--/ v V % ^^V h v*^^ ". ++# '. "bf c> »' V .J «?*. "*•"•' A ' V*'"** «** v v V '*. . 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