By far the greater majority of those on the reservations are law-abiding.

Under the patient and skilful tutorship of the Government agents they are advancing in civilization, and in a knowledge of the trades and of agriculture.
Rarely is there any trouble with them; but it would be strange indeed if, among these people not yet fairly emerged from barbarism, there were not a number sullen because of the change, and who cling to the traditions and practices when the Indian looked upon every white man as his enemy, whom it was his duty to kill upon the first opportunity.

The watchfulness of the authorities prevents grave crimes, but no vigilance can keep the dusky thieves from stealthily raiding upon the cattle and property of their white neighbors.
One of the tasks, therefore, of the cowmen of Bowman's ranch was to guard against aboriginal thieves.

Since those fellows were sure to have the same trouble as white pilferers in disposing of their stolen stock, they were fond of stampeding the cattle when not under the eyes of their caretakers.

About all that resulted from this amusement was extra exasperation and work on the part of the cowmen.
A more serious mischief was that of killing the animals.