His appearance suggested prosperity and a life of indulgence in the cities, and when he stopped in front of Alton the latter would have lost little by any comparison between the pair.

The pose of his sinewy figure and the clear brownness of his skin spoke of arduous labour, sound sleep, and the vigour that comes from a healthful occupation.

The steady directness of his gaze and quiet immobility of his face also conveyed an indefinite suggestion of power and endurance, and there was a curious grace in his movements when he turned courteously towards the stranger.
"You soon fixed him, packer," said the city man.
Alton laughed.

"The boys mostly call me rancher," said he.

"Still, it don't count for much, and I do some packing occasionally." "That's all right," said the stranger sharply, for there was something in Alton's answer which made him inclined to assert his dignity.
"Everybody seems to be a rancher hereaway, and you mayn't be too proud to put through a job for me." Alton nodded, and glanced at the speaker questioningly.
"No.