I reckon most people down thar, an' sure all the cattlemen, air on old Gass's side.

Blaisdell, Gordon, Fredericks, Blue--they'll all be in it." "Who are they goin' to fight ?" queried Ellen, sharply.
"Wal, the open talk is thet the sheepmen are forcin' this war.

But thar's talk not so open, an' I reckon not very healthy for any man to whisper hyarbouts." "Uncle John, y'u needn't be afraid to tell me anythin'," said Ellen.
"I'd never give y'u away.

Y'u've been a good friend to me." "Reckon I want to be, Ellen," he returned, nodding his shaggy head.

"It ain't easy to be fond of you as I am an' keep my mouth shet....