As the best they could do, they took refuge in a grove, where, by
stretching the canvas over themselves and the steam man, they managed
to keep free from the wet.

The steam man was not intended to travel during stormy weather, and so
they allowed him to rest.

CHAPTER XVIII. THE ENCAMPMENT.

THE STORM proved the severest which the steam man had encountered
since leaving St. Louis, and it put an effectual veto on his travels
during its continuance, and for a short time afterward.

The prairie was found so soft and slippery that they were compelled to
lie by until the sun had hardened it somewhat, when they once more
resumed their journey.

As they now had thousands of dollars in their possession, and as all
sorts of characters were found on the western plains, it may be said
that none of the company ever felt easy.

Baldy Bicknell, the trapper, from his extensive experience and
knowledge of the West, was the guide and authority on all matters
regarding their travels. He generally kept watch during the night,
obtaining what sleep he could through the day. The latter, however,
was generally very precarious, as at sight of every horseman or cloud
of smoke, they generally awakened him, so as to be sure and commit no
serious error.