They did not stop then to wonder how the fire had started, or why it had gained such headway.

They raced their horses after sacks, and after the wagon and team and water barrels with which to fight the flames.

For it was not the claim-shacks in its path which alone were threatened.

The grass that was burning meant a great deal to the stock, and therefore to the general welfare of every settler upon that bench, be he native or newcomer.
Florence Grace Hallman had, upon one of her periodical visits among her "clients," warned them of the danger of prairie fires and urged them to plow and burn guards around all their buildings.

A few of the settlers had done so and were comparatively safe in the face of that leaping, red line.