A brilliant fire illumines the wild scene for a few rods around, while all beyond is impenetrable darkness.

His hardy mule, accustomed to all weathers, is browsing near by.
The floor of his camp, spread with buffalo robes, looks warm and inviting.
His two comrades are soundly asleep with their rifles on their arms, ready at the slightest alarm to spring to their feet prepared for battle.
There is a raging storm wailing through the tree-tops.

The howling of the wolves is heard as, in fierce and hungry packs, they roam through these uninhabited wilds.

Carson, reclining upon his couch, in perfect health and unfatigued, caresses the faithful dog, which clings to his side, as he looks out upon the scene and listens to the storm.

What is there which the chambers of the Metropolitan hotel can afford, which the hardy mountaineer would accept in exchange?
Slowly our party of trappers ascended the river, gathering many furs on their way.