"It's certainly a bad state of affairs we've come to when you refuse
whiskey. Don't you think so, Stubby?" said Arab, addressing the one
and appealing to the other. "You never refused no drink, Baugh, you
know you didn't," said Stubb reproachfully.

"Oh, you little sawed-off burnt-offering, you can't see the policy
that we must use in handling this matter. This is a delicate play,
that can't be managed roughshod on horseback. It has food, shelter,
and drink in it for us all, but they must be kept in the background.
The main play now is to convince Mr. Seigerman that he has a call to
serve his country in the office of sheriff. Bear down heavy on the
emergency clause. Then make him think that no other name but Louie
Seigerman will satisfy the public clamor. Now, my dear Stubby, I know
that you are a gifted and accomplished liar, and for that reason I
insist that you work your brain and tongue in this matter. Keep your
own motive in the background and bring his to the front. That's the
idea. Now, can you play your part?"

"Well, as I have until to-morrow to think it over, I'll try," said
Stubb.

The next afternoon Baugh and Stubb sauntered into Louie's place, and
received a very cordial welcome at the hands of the proprietor. Baugh
introduced Stubb as a friend of his whom he had met in town that day,
and who, being also interested in cattle, he thought might be able to
offer some practical suggestions. Their polite refusal to indulge in a
social glass with the proprietor almost hurt his feelings.

"Let us retire to the rear room for a few moments of conversation, if