Mr. Reeves applied them to his eyes and gazed long and carefully at the distant object that had attracted his attention.
“What is it?” demanded Bud.
“I don’t know yet. I can’t see for dust. But I’m pretty sure it’s a band of cattle.”
Walt and Ralph held their breaths.
“Our cattle?” almost whispered Bud, in a tense voice.
“I can’t be sure. It might be any band of steers crossing the state. Tell you what, Bud, saddle the big sorrel for me and we’ll go and find out.”
Ten minutes later the band of horsemen was riding at top speed toward the distant moving objects. As they drew closer it was seen that they were unmistakably cattle. All at once Bud gave a sharp cry.
“Boss, they’re our cows. See the big muley steer in front? That’s old Abe. I’d know him among a thousand.”
“By George, Bud, you’re right! But who can be driving them?”
He was interrupted by a mighty shout from Ralph Stetson.