Book excerpt: Provides a vivid look into the life of the trapper and trader, the dangers they faced, and the fortunes that a few lucky ones were able to amass. Butler uses his role as an archaeologist to present floor plans of many of the posts and unknown drawings that are just now coming to light. Attention has also been given to the five of twenty-four trading posts that have been reconstructed. Rendezvous in Colorado are also covered, as well as shipping methods used to get the furs to various markets"--P. [4] of cover.