12 June 1832-Ouisconsin Territory

Many months I have spent exploring the great Upper Peninsula, and nary a soul have I encountered. This territory is a wondrous beauty to behold, but the isolation of its forests and dales can be inhospitable.

This morning my solitude broke when I encountered a lone traveler riding a roan-colored Tennessee Pacer. The man looked as strong as two oxen, and no pair of eyes I have ever beheld were as deeply blue. He carried a well-polished Hawken rifle and a pair of snowshoes purchased from a Chippewa trader.

The fellow explained he was on his way to Lake Superior to meet two trappers and procure a supply of beaver pelts for trade down in Illinois. He said he could use a “young hand” like me to help with the load.

Promise of good pay and companionship felt tantalizing, so I told the horseman I was interested. He asked for my name.

I responded that I am Beauregard Jeffreys, but I answer to Red. “And what, pray tell, is your name?” I asked.

“Rowdy,” the man replied, a nickname I find most humorous due to his serious demeanor. I inquired his proper name, and he said, “Bennett Coal.”

Tomorrow I shall ride with Rowdy Bennett to Lake Superior to meet the two trappers. I think I shall fancy Rowdy’s company. Perhaps time will tell otherwise, but I feel as if I can trust the fellow. In fact, I feel as if I have known Rowdy Bennett Coal my entire life.

—R.J.