Dorian wondered how Carlia had ever come that way.

Of course, it had been before the heavy snow, when traveling was not so bad.
"Who lives at this place ?" asked Dorian of the driver, giving the box number Carlia had sent.
"That?
Oh, that's John Hickson's place." "A rancher ?" "No; not exactly.

He's out here mostly for his health." "Does he live here in the mountains the year around ?" "Usually he moves into town for the winter.

Last year the winter was so mild that he decided to try to stick one through; but surely, he's got a dose this time.

Pretty bad for a sick man, I reckon." "Anybody with him ?" "Wife and three children--three of the cutest kiddies you ever saw.