Markmar,
It is hard to tell, what Bicknell’s meaning actually is:
Here is a snip from that 1895 article
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Bicknell says it’s repeated by Waltz’s only hearer. Then in the next snip below, Bicknell comments on “the woman” being at fault, because she is unsure about east or west for the tributary…. (ahem, route to the mine)
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It’s possible that it was not Julia, but someone from her “camp”, although Bick sure indicates it was Julia giving the information (Waltz’ only hearer).
The directions in this account, come from the Peraltas. And Julia must have memorized all this information long before Waltz’ deathbed.
For Bick to think of Julia as Waltz’ only hearer, then either Julia lied to Bick about being only hearer, or it’s because she thought she was. Especially if Rhiney was never paying attention🤓
If Julia was 1 of 3 at the deathbed confession, she wouldn’t be only heater.
Julia going to Hog canyon first, sure looks like she was trying to follow the monumented trail, not the trail given to Holmes.
As far as German clues …. Rhiney was part of that process. I would find it hard pressed to think that happened in haste, just before Waltz died …… remember, Rhiney was a poor student 😜
If folk want to dismiss Bicknell’s 1895 article, that is up to them.
This account of all 3 at the deathbed doesn’t fit, imho……