"A gambler?" questioned both boys in surprise.
"I wouldn't go far enough to say that. What are they going to do next here do you know?" asked the engineer, changing the subject.
"I believe it is to be a roping contest. That will be a lot of fun."
"You are not going in it, are you?"
"Of course. Why not? I don't know what they are going to rope, but I'll take my chance with the rest of them whatever it is. Guess I'll ride over and ask Mr. Jessup. I see him over there now."
Mr. Jessup when questioned informed the boy that it was to be a most realistic contest in which two men mounted were to try to rope each other. One of the rules of the contest was that the roper, when he caught his opponent, was to drop the lariat instantly so as not to pull his victim from the saddle.
As only two could meet for the prize it was decided that lots should be drawn from a hat. The two who drew slips of paper with the word "rope" written on them, were to have the honor of meeting in a test of skill.
The prize was a Mexican saddle, silver mounted, at which all the cowmen looked with covetous eyes.
"Think you want to take a chance for the saddle, boy?" asked Mr.
Jessup.
"That I do," laughed Tad. "That's the saddle I want—I always have wanted one just like it. But I'm afraid I shall not get the opportunity to try for it."