After crossing the Smoky Hill River, I felt comparatively safe as this was the last stream I had to cross.

My first plan of escape having failed, I now determined upon another.

I could never resist the call of the trail.

I was persuaded now that I was destined to lead a life on the Plains.

The first presentation of my show was given in May, 1883, at Omaha, which I had then chosen as my home. From there we made our first summer tour, visiting practically every important city in the country.

Excitement was plentiful during my two years' service as a Pony Express rider.

I felt only as a man can feel who is roaming over the prairies of the far West, well armed, and mounted on a fleet and gallant steed.