The latter stream almost paralleled the line between
Medina and Uvalde counties, and as we expected some word from
headquarters, we crossed over to the east fork. When westward of
and opposite the ranch, Runt Pickett was sent in for any
necessary orders that might be waiting. By leaving us early in
the evening he could reach headquarters that night and overtake
us before noon the next day. We grazed leisurely forward the next
morning, killing as much time as possible, and Pickett overtook
us before the wagon had even gone into camp for dinner. Lovell
had not stopped on his return from the west, but had left with
the depot agent at the home station a letter for the ranch. From
its contents we learned that the other two Buford herds had
started from Uvalde, Sponsilier in the lead, one on the 24th and
the other the following day. Local rumors were encouraging in
regard to grass and water to the westward, and the intimation was
clear that if favorable reports continued, the two Uvalde herds
would intersect an old trail running from the head of Nueces
Canon to the Llano River. Should they follow this route there was
little hope of their coming into the main western trail before
reaching the Colorado River. Sponsilier was a daring fellow, and
if there was a possible chance to get through beyond the borders
of any settlement, he was certain to risk it.
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