He is as swift as an eagle, strong as mountain-ash, keen as a fox, and absolutely tireless and implacable." "How long have you been here, Colonel Zane ?" "More than twelve years, and it has been one long fight." "I'm afraid I'm too late for the fun," said Joe, with his quiet laugh.
"Not by about twelve more years," answered Colonel Zane, studying the expression on Joe's face.

"When I came out here years ago I had the same adventurous spirit which I see in you.

It has been considerably quelled, however.

I have seen many a daring young fellow get the border fever, and with it his death.

Let me advise you to learn the ways of the hunters; to watch some one skilled in woodcraft.