“Why, I heard your statement, and I have also heard it disputed from other sources. In fact I have nothing to do with you except to enforce the quarantine now established by the cattlemen of eastern Montana. If you have any papers showing that your herds were wintered north of latitude 37, you can pass, as this quarantine is only enforced against cattle from south of that degree. This territory lost half a million dollars’ worth of native stock last fall from Texas fever, and this season they propose to apply the ounce of preventive. You will have ample time to reach your destination after frost falls, and your detention by quarantine will be a good excuse for your delay. Now, unless you can convince me that your herds are immune, I’ll show you a good place to camp on the head of Wolf Creek. It will probably be a matter of ten to fifteen days before the quarantine is lifted, and we are enforcing it against citizens of Montana and Texas alike, and no exception can be made in your case.” “But, my dear sir, this is not a local or personal matter. Whatever you do, don’t invite the frown of the government. Let me warn you not to act in haste. Now, remember—” “You made your cracks that you would cross this quarantine line,” interrupted Ullmer, bristlingly, “and I want you to find out your mistake. There is no occasion for further words, and you can either order your outfit to turn your cattle east, or I’ll send men and do it myself.” The “major-domo” turned and galloped back to his men, a number of whom had congregated near at hand. The next moment he returned and haughtily threatened to surrender the cattle then and there unless he was allowed to proceed. “Give him a receipt for his beeves, Fred,” quietly remarked an old cowman, gently stroking his beard, “and I’ll take these boys over here on the right and start the cattle. That will be the safest way, unless the gentleman can indemnify us. I lost ten thousand dollars’ worth of stock last fall, and as a citizen of Montana I have objections to leaving a trail of fever from here to the mouth of the Yellowstone. And tell him he can have a bond for his cattle,” called back the old man as he rode out of hearing.