I don't mind bein' umpire in the ancient and honorable game of croquet, but I ain't goin' to assume no unpaid obligations as coroner." [Illustration: "'The umpire decides that you've got to check your guns during the game.'"] With some protests all those engaged handed their belts to Dan Anderson, who casually flung them over a projecting cedar limb of the fence.

"For shame! Curly," said he.

"Talk about tenderfeet! Here you are, wearin' a pearl handle on your gun, just like a cheap Nebraska sheepherder with social ambitions.

I thought you was a real cowman.
The court fines you--" "It ain't my fault," said Curly, blushing.

"The girl--the little woman--that's my wife--she done that last Christmas.