| OCR Text |
Show 234 TALES OF THE COLORADO PIONEERS. somewhat baffled, he lifted it slowly, with a puff and pant, and said, ' bullion both ways, by jingo!' " The stage possessed a comfortable seating capacity for nine, but this time it was extended to fifteen. Extended, however, is not the right word-squeezed would be more appropriate. His mind began to tumble from its lofty flights to the grosser contemplation of 'compressed meats.' "There was but one of the gentler sex in the coach, and she carried a canary bird, a pet squirrel and a geranium in a pot; all of which she unhesitatingly deposited in the laps of the gentlemen that had not been previously converted into chairs for some one. " They expected to arrive at Fairplay in time for supper, but before they reached the middle of South Pafk the wind and snow commenced a tussle, which was followed by a battle of the elements that was appalling. Arkins soon realized that the path of glory, like true love, seldom runs smoothly. He didn't more than half like the thought of having the snow for a winding sheet, even though it might be typical of purity; and had no notion of filling a grave far above the common world. "When they reached the top of Red hill, all above, beyond, and about was enveloped in Egyptian darkness. The snow didn't come down in eddying flakes that the poet talks about, but fell in blinding sheets. "The driver said it was impossible to go on. The horses were bewildered by the darkness and the raging tempest. The leaders, as if thrust around by some irresistible power, doubled back on the wheel horses. There was no time to meditate; no time to be tender and comforting to the woman who tearfully inquired if her household pets were in danger. They simply had to string |
