On our route we came across a number of M----'s stock horses (he claimed about four to five hundred) and, taking the opportunity, we got together some 200 head, inspected them, and in this way, the only way open to me, claimed having taken possession.

But now with fear and trembling we approached the ranch where M---- and his family, as I knew, were residing.

A hundred yards from the house was the main spring of water, to which and at which we went and camped for dinner.

Somehow or other M---- heard of our presence and out he came, a shot-gun in his hand, fury in his eyes, and his wife clinging to his coat-tails.

No doubt he meant to shoot, but I was quite ready for him and put a bold face on it.