"Yes, but with a heart of steel and gold," returned Chet. "Idaho does not contain a braver or better hunter than old Ike Watson."
Shortly after this Chet and Paul went out to care for the cattle about the place, for quite a few head had already been penned up ready for the early fall drive. The ranch did not boast of many cattle, and such as there was they desired to keep in the best possible condition.
Noel Urner accompanied them and was much interested in all to be seen and what was done.
"Such a difference between life out here and in the city," he remarked. "Actually, it is like another world!"
"You're right there," replied Paul. "And when you size it up all around, it's hard to tell which is the best—providing, of course, you can get a comfortable living at either place."
Just as the three were walking back to the ranch the sounds of a horse's hoofs broke upon their ears.
"Can it be Allen?" burst out Chet, but then his face fell. "No, it's not his style of riding."
"Oh, pshaw!" whispered Paul a second later. "If it isn't Captain Grady!"
"And who is he?" queried Noel.
"An old prospector who wants to get possession of this ranch. He claims that our title to it is defective, or not good at all. I wonder what he wants now?"