After three months of steady travel, the country, which had become more and more hilly as they advanced toward the west, assumed a different character.

The hills became mountains, and it was clear that they were arriving at a great range running north and south.
They had for some time left the broad plains behind them, and game was very scarce.

The Indians had of late been more and more disinclined to go far to the west, and the tribe with whom they were now traveling told them that they could go no farther.

They signified that beyond the mountains dwelt tribes with whom they were unacquainted, but who were fierce and warlike.

One of the party, who had once crossed, said that the people there had fires like those which the white men had taught them to make.
"You see, Tom," Ned said, "they must have been in contact with the Spaniards, or at least with tribes who have learned something from the Spaniards.