Answer:
He is looking for his wife.
Explanation:
The men tell him they have not seen her and he begins asking about Slim instead, eventually leaving the bunkhouse to look for him.
He is suspicious that something might be going on between Slim and his wife and he does not trust her, since she tends to flirt with the other workers. He is insecure.
To give a picture of the behavior of the grasshoppers would be my first choice but it could also be to show the violence of nature
It means the speakers mother has passed away
I hope this help : )
