For several hours the boys discussed their past adventures, some of
which were brought to their minds by views of the western country
through which they were passing. Professor Snodgrass took no interest
in anything except a big book which he was studying carefully, at
times making notes on slips of paper, which had a tendency to drop
into the aisle, or under the seat when he was not looking. In
consequence the car, in the vicinity of where the professor sat,
looked as though a theatrical snow-storm had taken place.

One morning the boys awakened to find the train making fast time over
a level stretch of country, with rolling hills here and there, covered
with tall grass. Occasionally glimpses could be had of herds of
cattle.

"We're on the prairies!" exclaimed Bob, as he went to the lavatory to
get ready for breakfast. "Say, now we're in the wild and woolly west,
all right."

"Well, it's not the first time," replied Jerry. "Still it does look
good to see it again. It's a little different, traveling this way,
than it was scooting along in our auto."

"Yes, and I think I prefer the auto to this," spoke up Ned, yawning
and stretching. "This is too lazy a way of journeying. I'd like to
rough it a bit."

"Rough it!" exclaimed Bob. "Wait until we get out in California, and
we can sleep out doors, while the folks back home are tending the
furnace fire."