In "Lonesome Dove," Augustus unexpectedly invites Newt to accompany him on a ride, which leaves Newt pleasantly surprised. On a clear, beautiful day, they encounter a distant grizzly bear that does not notice them due to the wind direction. Augustus is in high spirits, riding confidently with his rifle at the ready.
As they journey ahead of the cattle herd, they travel fifteen miles or more, eventually stopping to take in the scenery. From their vantage point, they can see the herd as mere tiny black dots on the vast plain, emphasizing the expansive beauty of the southern horizon that still lies far behind them.