"Well, I have been on this ranch a long time, Thornton, and I can't help caring what becomes of 'em. I take the same pride in the place Sandy does. We have won a reputation here for doing things the way they ought to be done--for minding the laws--for having clean, healthy stock. Sandy says he shall dip his herd, anyway." "Bother Sandy! He's talked to you men until he's got you all upset. You would have been with me if he had kept his mouth shut. But no matter what he says I am running this ranch at present. I mean to run it in the future, too. If you're wise you will do as I tell you." "Mr. Clark may have something to say about the dipping." "Don't you fret," sneered Thornton. "I sounded him last night. He's a tenderfoot. I don't believe he knows a thing about sheeping." Mr. Clark drew Donald into the sun-flooded field before he spoke. Then, after a thoughtful silence he turned: "Well, Don?" "I wouldn't have that Thornton here another day, father!" broke out the boy hotly. "Slowly, son, slowly! We must be sure about Thornton before we condemn him. He has been ten years on the ranch; more than that, we are without a manager, and we have none in view. Remember 'he stumbles who runs fast.' Take time, Don, take time." Donald flushed. "I know it is the best way, but I was so angry to hear him talking that way about you." "Loyalty is a fine trait, Don." Mr. Clark laid his hand affectionately on his son's shoulder. "I like to see you loyal. But in this matter we must move slowly." "What about this dipping, father? What is it?" "Something about washing the sheep. I do not clearly understand it myself." "Shall you have it done?" "What do you say?" "Of course I do not know anything about it," Donald replied modestly, "but somehow I feel as if Sandy and the men are right." "I think so too." "Couldn't I ask Sandy what it is, father?" "I am thinking of asking him myself, Don, if I get a good chance." The chance came unexpectedly, for at that very moment Sandy McCulloch came out of one of the sheep-pens and crossed the walk to the central barn. "What are you up to to-day, Sandy?" called Mr. Clark. "I am going to dip my flock, sir, down in the south meadow." "I am glad of that, for it will give us a chance to see it done," observed Mr. Clark. Then lowering his voice he asked: "Why do you dip the sheep, Sandy?" "Are you asking because you want to know?" inquired Sandy with the directness which characterized everything he said. "Yes, Both Donald and I wish to learn."