"Well," said Stubb, slowly and deliberately, "I think it's high time
we had Mr. Seigerman's consent to make the race. This counting of our
forces and the sinews of war is good enough in advance; but I
must insist on an answer from Mr. Seigerman. Will you become our
candidate?"

"Shentlemens, how can I refuse to be one sheriff? The cattle-mens must
be protec. I accep."

The trio now arose, and with a round of oaths that would have made the
captain of a pirate ship green with envy swore Seigerman had taken
a step he would never regret. After the hearty congratulation on his
acceptance, they reseated themselves, when Louie, in his gratitude,
insisted that on pleasant occasions like this he should be permitted
to offer some refreshments of a liquid nature.

"I never like to indulge at a bar," said Stubb. "The people whom I
work for are very particular regarding the habits of their trusted
men."

"It might be permissible on occasions like this to break certain
established rules," suggested Baugh, "besides, Mr. Seigerman can bring
it in here, where we will be unobserved."

"Very well, then," said Stubb, "I waive my objections for
sociability's sake."

When Louie had retired for this purpose, Baugh arose to his full
dignity and six foot three, and said to the other two, bowing, "Your