The rider, a smallish man, with a brown beard, was dressed in plain clothing, much the worse for wind and sun.

He seemed not to observe the steepness and roughness of the trail.
As he rode up and slipped from his horse Mose felt much drawn to him, for his was a kindly and sad face.

His voice, as he spoke, was low and soft, only his eyes, keen and searching, betrayed the resolute plainsman.
"Howdy, stranger ?" he said in Southern fashion.

"Glad to see you, sir." Mose presented his note from Delmar.
"From old Delmar, eh?
How did you leave him?
In good health and spirits, I hope." He spoke in the rhythmical way of Tennesseans, emphasizing the auxiliary verbs beyond their usual value.

After reading the letter he extended his hand.