Chapter 8Over the next few weeks, Matthew and I brought in a poorer harvest than anticipated. I could not explain it adequately, but it seemed that the volcanic eruption halfway around the world last summer had somehow affected our yield. Of course, that might not have been the entire story. Last winter—that of ‘82–‘83—had been colder than the prior year by a considerable measure, which made for a shorter growing season. By tasting the air, Matthew predicted this one would be harsh, as well.
With Todoh’s help, we gathered the cattle from the free range and herded them into the hundred acres behind the worm fence. The Thunderbird and Bear brand on the left flank of each animal still brought a thrill of pride, evidence, at least to my mind, that War Eagle and Shambling Bear were doing well.
