They shook hands cordially. Governor Hogg said:
"What is it, Bill? What can I do for you?"
"Why," said McDonald, "I came down to get to be Ranger Captain—to take McMurray's place in Company B."
Hogg looked at him reprovingly.
"Why didn't you let me know sooner?" he said. "There are two other applications for the place; both from good men, with long petitions and fine endorsements."
The applicant for position forgot his old friend's title.
"Why, Jim," he said, "I never thought of it until a day or two ago. I didn't have time to get endorsements, but I can get 'em, if you want them. I have been working mostly in No-man's Land and the Territory lately, but have done work in Texas too, and I can get about any kind of endorsement you want."
Hogg laughed. He had a robust sense of humor.
"By gatlins!" he said, using his favorite expression. "That's all right, Bill, you have already got the best endorsement I ever saw."
McDonald looked puzzled.