Chapter 6James Sage Crosses The Balds
Anon, James’ hopes had soared, just to plummet. He had spent much more time than he had planned, and now found himself not starting for home until the middle of October. He was low on provisions and his clothing was proving inadequate against the cool fall morning air. He knew he could cut two, maybe even three days off his return journey by crossing “The Balds” instead of following the valleys. He knew of others who had crossed this rugged mountain plateau, but had never traversed it himself. Even though it was in the highest mountain ridges, once on top it would be easy traveling because he had been told there were no woods or growth to impede him. He had heard that it was one of the most mystifying areas in the wilderness, unlike any other pla
