"I'm afraid I wasn't listening, Mr. Stamford," she said apologetically. "What were you saying?"
"I don't believe I remember. I never say much worth while."
"It wasn't—that," she explained uncomfortably.
Stamford yielded to her embarrassment. "West and your husband should change jobs."
A gust of laughter broke from her lips. It startled him, but he went on:
"I don't think Dakota Fraley would stop Cockney Aikens——"
"Do you think Dakota was doing it purposely?"
Stamford stared. "I didn't think of that. Perhaps—— But why should he——"
"Of course," she laughed, "why should he?"
"Your husband would make an admirable brand-inspector, and West's size would be no handicap to a rancher."