“Tomorrow we’ll be leaving Independence,” Garrett said as he stood before the assembled migrants. “It’ll be a long journey and a tough one. At times, it’ll be difficult. At times, it’ll be dangerous. But, if you keep in mind a few rules, it’ll be successful.”
“First, I’m in charge. Me and the men standing in front of you,” he said indicating Gus, Sam, Todd and the Tuckers. “Gus and I have made this trip five times. We know what’s waiting for us, and we know how to get through the rough spots.”
Sam watched as the crowd shifted uneasily and looked at each other at the mention of the difficulties that could lie ahead.
“Sam and Todd here ain’t never made the trip, but they got skills and know how that makes them good leaders. Cody and Walt Tucker have worked for us and other trains. They’re
