He almost felt in the solitudes
of the woods and hills as if he were the original explorer of this
far-distant country. He was more than three thousand miles away from
his native town, entrusted with a mission of importance. The thought
was gratifying to his boyish fancy, and inspired him with a new
sense of power and increased his self-reliance. He was glad,
however, to have the company of Jake Bradley. He was ready to
acknowledge that his chances of success, had he started alone, would
have been much smaller, and certainly he would have found it
exceedingly lonesome.
His companion was not a man of culture, nor were his tastes
elevated, but there was a rough honesty about him, and a good humor,
which made him an agreeable companion. Besides, he knew the country,
and Ben felt secure in leaving the conduct of the trip to him.
"I am glad I came out here," thought Ben, as, with his head pillowed
on his knapsack, he looked up through the branches of the tall trees
to the blue sky beyond. "It's better than staying at home and
working for Deacon Pitkin, or blacking boots for Sam Sturgis. Here I
am my own man, free and don't need to run at anybody's bidding.
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