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The Outlet by Andy Adams
page 120 of 303 (39%)
in crossing the trail, but it was so worn by recent use that it
afforded no clue to guide us in our quest. But from the next
vantage-point which afforded us a view, a sea of cattle greeted
our vision, all of which seemed under herd. Wagon sheets were
next sighted, and finally a horseman loomed up and signaled to
us. He proved to be one of Flood's men, and under his direction
Forrest's camp and cattle were soon located. The lad assured us
that a pow-wow had been in session since daybreak, and we hurried
away to add our numbers to its council. When we sighted Forrest's
wagon among some cottonwoods, a number of men were just mounting
to ride away, and before we reached camp, they crossed the creek
heading south. A moment later, Forrest walked out, and greeting
us, said:

"Hello, fellows. Get down and let your horses blow and enjoy
yourselves. You're just a minute late to meet some very nice
people. Yes, we had the sheriff from Dodge and a posse of men for
breakfast. No--no particular trouble, except John Johns, the d--
fool, threw the loop of his rope over the neck of the sheriff's
horse, and one of the party offered to unsling a carbine. But
about a dozen six-shooters clicked within hearing, and he acted
on my advice and cut gun-plays out. No trouble at all except a
big medicine talk, and a heap of legal phrases that I don't sabe
very clear. Turn your horses loose, I tell you, for I'm going to
kill a nice fat stray, and towards evening, when the other herds
come up, we'll have a round-up of Don Lovell's outfits. I'll make
a little speech, and on account of the bloodless battle this
morning, this stream will be rechristened Sheriff's Creek."


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