Tales of a Traveller Section 15 - Buckthorne, Part Two

The Adventures of Captain Bonneville Chapter 38

In which a party of enterprising trappers undertakes a perilous journey through arid deserts and snowy mountains, contending with the privations and misunderstandings that accompany encounters with the native peoples. Their travels reveal the fertile and strategically significant lands of California, notable for its missions, picturesque coasts, and the burgeoning interest of foreign powers.

The Adventures of Captain Bonneville Chapter 39

In which the wandering band of trappers finds a warm welcome among the hospitable inhabitants of Monterey, indulging in the splendid equestrian feats and lively bull-fights of the Californians, whilst observing the curious use of the laso in both practical ranching and thrilling contests between bear and bull. Their subsequent journey, marked by distress and ruthless encounters with native horse thieves, brings Captain Bonneville great sorrow and indignation, as the promise of exploration is marred by waste and cruelty.

The Adventures of Captain Bonneville Chapter 37

In which Captain Bonneville, leading a diverse company through a landscape fraught with cunning peril, employs artful stratagems to mask his numbers from a lurking Blackfeet war party, whilst maintaining vigilant watch by night and engaging in spirited, if mock, carousal at the mineral-laden Beer Springs. His journey continues through plains rich with buffalo and the curious Little Snake Lake, culminating in a heartfelt reunion with a detached party who have ventured to survey the mysterious Great Salt Lake.

The Adventures of Captain Bonneville Chapter 36

In which Captain Bonneville and his party face the formidable challenge of crossing snow-laden mountains, employing ingenious methods and indomitable courage to persevere through icy perils and treacherous descents. Their journey brings them to the verdant banks of Snake River, where signs of fellow travellers rekindle hope and culminate in a heartfelt reunion, celebrated with rustic festivity amidst the wilds.

The Adventures of Captain Bonneville Chapter 36

In which an uninvited yet clever and good-humoured Indian hunter joins Captain Bonneville’s party, enlivening their journey with his wit and skill despite some mischievous setbacks; his merry companionship and hunting prowess prove a rare boon to the travellers. Their progress is marked by genial camaraderie and unexpected mishap as the new friend’s spirited ride on a young colt ends in injury, prompting a heartfelt parting amid the rugged wilderness.