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 true by the signs that came into the lanky Texan's face.

"Here"—handing out the dollar—"I said I'd trust you till you struck a job. You take this money, and go and spend it over there at the Buffalo Waller café for something that'll stick to your ribs, and when you've done that, come back here and we'll see about a horse for that there ropin' doin's this afternoon."

"If you could help me to a horse, sir!" said Texas, brightening so wonderfully that he seemed like another man.

"Well, maybe I can."

"And if I win the purse—"

"Wouldn't be surprised if you did."

"I'll split it with you, sir!"

"Yes, an' you won't do no such a dam' thing! Go on over there and put something under your shirt to work on. It takes beefsteak and taters to give a man the stren'th to throw a steer."