CHAPTER 18
Early the following morning, the group prepared to break camp and continue their travels. Hours before dawn, Rufus trotted off by himself. Since the beginning of their journey, and while everyone slept, the dog often wandered off into the night alone to return hungry later in the morning. If he didn’t return by the time they were ready to depart, Russell or Jude would whistle for him, and he’d come bounding back, tail akimbo, paws often muddied, his big pink tongue hanging from his slobbery jowls. Chaco had developed a fondness for Rufus, always glad to see the dog running back into camp. “That dog has more personality than some people,” he’d said to Russell once, “and more compassion and intelligence, too,” he said glancing in Rocky’s direction.
Russell laughed. “You’re certa
