“These behind me will be in the corral by night,” he said to himself. “Then to-morrow Teddy and Roy can take the six hundred over in the southwest part to Red Rock, and we’ll be all set. Reckon I did a lot of worrying for nothing. Those Lefton boys probably gave up the ship. An’ Mob Jamisson ought to be out of the country by now.” As he rode he whistled a tune newly come to the X Bar X via a phonograph record: “This is my lucky day.” “It is, too,” he muttered. “Reckon I’m pretty fortunate in having two sons like Teddy an’ Roy. Pretty good ole world, after all!” Nearer and nearer the corral came the driven cattle. The sun was directly overhead, beaming cruelly, causing the sweat to pour down the faces of the riders. Beneath their protecting neckerchiefs Teddy and Roy felt the perspiration streaking in rivulets down their cheeks. They were hot, dusty, and tired. But their job was still before them, and they went on without a murmur. Occasionally an animal would break, causing confusion and necessitating quick work. But as the corral came into view, they had held most of the herd intact. Mr. Manley glanced behind him. The cattle were lowing nervously, impatient at the slow, steady pace they had been forced to adopt for so long a time. Another hour of this and open mutiny would take place within their ranks. Mr. Manley motioned to Pop Burns, who was nearest, to come closer. The veteran ranger left his place in line and rode slowly around the herd and approached his boss. Wisely he waited until he was within speaking distance before asking any questions. At a moment like this any unusual sound might cause a stampede. “Want me, boss?” he inquired quietly. “Yep. Ride back and tell Teddy he’s to take this bunch in.” “Take ’em in, hey!” The puncher whistled. “That’s a right dangerous job. But I reckon he can do it. All right, boss.” He rode off. Fifteen minutes later Teddy reached his father, it having taken that long to make the circuit of the herd. “All set, Teddy?” “Sure thing, Dad.” The boy shifted in his saddle, but smiled gamely. “Guess Flash will stand the strain. I never brought ’em in before, but there’s nothing like starting. Want me to take the lead now?” “Uh-huh. I’ll ride the flank you had. Now listen. Keep ’em down for half an hour more, if you can. Then go into a trot. Soon as you get ’em moving well--let ’em ride. Get me?” “I get you, Dad. Half an hour ought to bring us pretty near. Well, so long. See you later.” “So long, Teddy.” Mr. Manley turned and rode away. Never once did he glance back. But as he took Teddy’s place in line his heart was thumping madly. CHAPTER XIX INTO THE CORRAL