The beginning of that journey distressed me physically; yet, gradually, as I grew accustomed to the roll of the stage and to occasional jars, I found myself easier in body.

Fortunately there had been rain, which settled the dust; and a favorable breeze made riding pleasant, where ordinarily it would have been hot and disagreeable.
We tarried long enough in the little hamlet of Sampson for Steele to get letters from reliable ranchers.

He wanted a number of references to verify the Ranger report he had to turn in to Captain Neal.

This precaution he took so as to place in Neal's hands all the evidence needed to convince Governor Smith.

And now, as Steele returned to us and entered the stage, he spoke of this report.