He would after that be dependent upon the railroad in every way.

The railroads deliberately devised the great land boom of 1886, which was more especially virulent in the State of Kansas.

Many of the roads had lands of their own for sale, but what they wanted most was the traffic of the settlers.

They knew the profit to be derived from the industry of a dense population raising products which must be shipped, and requiring imports which also must be shipped.

One railroad even offered choice breeding-stock free on request.