plow, and George got down.

"I was passing--going on to Forsyth's place--and my father asked me to
call," she said. "You were talking about buying cattle, and a man at
Dunblane has some good Herefords to sell. Father thinks they would
suit you."

"His recommendation carries weight," said George.

"I'll go and see them. I must thank you for bringing me word."

"I've another message. It's this--when you're buying stock, be
cautious how you bid."

"As I'm not well up in local prices, I wish Mr. Grant had been a little
plainer."

"He went farther than I expected. You see, as a friend of the seller,
he's awkwardly fixed."

"Just so," said George. "But, if you're not in the same position, you
might give me a hint. How much is the value of Canadian cattle usually
below the price likely to be asked of a new arrival?"

"In this case, I should say about fifty per cent," Flora answered, with
a laugh.

"Thank you," responded George. "I am sure your opinion's to be relied
on."

Edgar stopped his team near by, and Flora regarded him with amusement
as he came toward them, his red face streaked with dust.

"You look a good deal more like a western farmer than you did when I
saw you last," she laughed.

Edgar removed his goggles and surveyed his working attire somewhat
disgustedly.

"I wonder whether that's a compliment; but now that I've made the first
plunge, I'd better go through with it--get a flappy hat and a black
shirt, or one of those brilliant orange ones."

"The latter are more decorative. But, as you are going on a two days'
journey to drive some cattle, I'll tell you how to find the way."

"You had better tell George. I can only remember the things that
interest me."

Flora gave them clear instructions, and when she rode away George
turned to Edgar.

"You'll have to come, and we'll start at once. Grierson can go on
plowing with the Clydesdales, which is more than you could do."

"I'm afraid I must admit it," said Edgar, glancing at his ragged
furrow. "But I'm going to have my supper and put up some provisions
before I leave the place."

They set out an hour later, and safely reached their destination, where
George purchased a dozen cattle. They were big, red and white,
long-horned animals, accustomed to freedom, for fences are still scarce
on tracts of the prairie, and they ranged about the corral in a
restless manner. Edgar, leaning on the rails, watched them dubiously.

"They look