Summer is well along when Jack catches me saddling Ned one morning. “I’m selling some horses to a fellow over in Salida,” he says, “and I want you to come with me as it’s a two-man job. I’ve told Tim to spare you, so get your bedroll and such since we’ll be laying over.” He doesn’t wait for a reply, just turns and goes off.
I stand with mouth open, having no idea how to take this. Is it just boss needing a hand and he happened upon me, or is he looking to get me alone? There’s no time to ruminate. I hurry into the bunkhouse, roll my blanket into the canvas, tie it up, grab my saddlebags, and load everything onto Ned. By the time I’m ready, I see Jack on his big buckskin, headed my way. I allow a second to take in the sight before climbing into the saddle.
I don’t know what Jack is up to,
