He would follow hard at her heels, edging her constantly toward the flank of the herd, at times nipping her hide as a reminder of his own superiority.

In spite of herself the cow would gradually turn out toward the edge, and at last would be swept clear of the crush, the calf following close behind her.

There was a whirl of the rope and the calf was laid by the heels and dragged to the fire where the branding irons were heated and ready.
Meanwhile other cow-punchers are rushing calves to the branding.
The hubbub and turmoil increase.

Taut ropes cross the ground in many directions.

The cutting ponies pant and sweat, rear and plunge.