The miners stood close around the bar. Every man's face bore a broad

grin. At this point they interrupted with howls and cat-calls of

applause. "Ain't he a peach!" said one to another, and composed

himself again to listen. At the conclusion of a long harangue they

yelled enthusiastically, and immediately began the more informal

discussion of what was evidently a popular proposition. When the five

who had been paid off returned, everybody had a drink, while the

newcomers were made acquainted with the subject. Old Mizzou, who had

listened silently but with a twinkle in his eye, went to hunt up

Bennington.

They examined the horse together. The owner named thirty dollars as his

price. Old Mizzou said this was cheap. It was not. Bennington agreed to

take the animal on trial for a day or two, so they hitched a lariat

around its neck and led it over to the wagon. After despatching a few

errands they returned to camp. Bennington got out his ledger and

journal and made entries importantly. Old Mizzou disappeared in the

direction of the corral, where he was joined presently by the man

Arthur.




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