that could scarcely be aroused or frightened away, which
behavior was so different from their usual habit of being shy and
running off at the slightest provocation. The calf under such
circumstances seems to understand that it is "not at home," and cannot
be seen.

At another time a lot of calves are left in charge of a young cow or
heifer that seems to understand her responsibility and guards her
charge carefully. The young calves are too weak to make the long trip
to water and thus, through the maternal instinct of the mother cow, she
provides for the care of her offspring almost as if she were human.

After viewing such a large pasture as the open range presents, which is
limitless in extent, the small fenced field or pasture lot of a few
acres on the old home farm back east, that looked so large to boyish
eyes in years gone by, dwindles by comparison into insignificance and
can never again be restored to its former greatness.

[1] This statement is made on the authority of Mr. F. W. Volz, who
lives at Canon Diablo, and is familiar with the customs of the Navajos.

CHAPTER IV

RANCH LIFE

Ranch life on the open range may be somewhat wild and lonely, but it is
as free and independent to the rancher as it is to his unfettered
cattle that roam at will over a thousand hills. As a place of
residence for a family of women and children it is undesirable because
of its isolation and lack of social and educational privileges; but
for a man who cares to "rough it" it has a rare fascination. Its
freedom may mean lonesomeness and its independence monotony, yet it is
very enjoyable for a season. Like anything else it may become wearing
and wearisome if continued too long without a change, but its novelty
has a charm that is irresistible.

Ranch life is untrammeled by social conventionalities and is not
burdened by business cares, but is an easy, natural life that is free
from all kinds of pressure. It relieves the tension of an artificial
existence, and worry and vexation are forgotten. Time loses its rapid
flight and once more jogs on at an easy pace; and its complete
isolation and quiet gives nature a chance to rest and recuperate

"Away from the dwellings of careworn men."

The environment of ranch life is highly conducive to good health. The
scenery is delightful, the air pure and bracing, the food wholesome and
nutritious, the couch comfortable and the sleep refreshing. Walking
and riding f