For Bryant there now began a period of activity compared to which his earlier efforts were mere play.

Headquarters were moved down to Perro Creek, ten miles nearer Kennard.

In an endless procession streamed northward automobiles crammed with labourers, wagons heaped with lumber, cement, implements, food, tents, forage, and long lines of fresnos.

From distant Mexican settlements came natives in ramshackle wagons and driving half-wild ponies.

Out of the hills came sheep-herders and prospectors.