The forests had shrunk back for miles, making place for
vast fields, and the place had the appearance of a thrifty farm.
Fernando's trunk was packed, and he sat on the door-step in his best
clothes awaiting the appearance of the stage. At last the rumbling
thunder of wheels rolling over the great bridge smote his ears, and a
few moments later the vehicle came up to the gate. The six prancing
horses were drawn up, and the vehicle stopped, while the driver cried:
"All aboard!"
Sukey was in the stage, his dark eyes half closed. He roused himself to
drawl out:
"Come on, Fernando, we're off now, for sure."
While two farm hands, assisted by the driver, placed the trunk in the
boot, Fernando bade father and mother adieu. Sister had come over with
her husband and the baby. His brother with his young wife were present
to bid the young seekers after knowledge adieu. They followed Fernando
to the stage coach and cried:
"Good bye, Sukey! take good care of Fernando!" and Sukey drawled out:
"Who'll take keer o' me?"
The last good bye's were said, and the great stage coach rolled on. The
impressions of the young frontiersmen on approaching the first town were
strange and indescribable. The number of houses and streets quite
confused them. There seemed to be little or no order in the construction
of streets, and everybody seemed in a bustle and confusion.
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