The Claim Jumpers

In the mining country of Montana territory, it seems that it's one thing to find gold, and another to claim it as your own. Frontier gentlemen! Herewith an Englishman's account of life and death in the West.

As a reporter for the London Times, he writes his colorful and unusual stories. But as a man with a gun, he lives and becomes a part of the violent years in the new territories. Now starring John Dana.

This is the story of J.B. Kendall, frontier gentleman. I've been traveling along the Mullen Wagon Road in Montana territory, and I was looking forward to reaching Helena before dark, and my horse began to go lame.

And I realized I faced the prospect of camping out for still one other night. I had just rounded a bend in the trail when I saw the small figure plodding along on foot ahead of me.

He carried a pack on his back, and as I drew near, I saw that he was no more than a boy. 17 or 18. Hi! Hello! Go in the helmet? Yes, but I don't think I'll get there tonight.

Horse has gone lame. Oh. Yeah, right, poor leg, huh? Yes. He slipped off a rudder mile or so for the back. Too bad. I thought I might get a ride with you. There've been many wagons along today.

Now, how far have you walked? Mostly from Fort Benton. We got a couple of rides day for yesterday. Say, you don't happen to have any food on you. I ain't got much, but I could pay a dollar or two, I guess.

Oh, I've been up for the two of us. You better save your money. Oh, that's mighty nice to you. Keep your eyes open for a decent bit of brown and we'll make a camp. About half a mile beyond we found a somewhat sheltered spot a little way off the trail.