Uncle Spen stepped out of the bunkhouse with a jaunty step. He had slept well, despite the late game of cards and the drinking the night before, and was feeling ready for anything, including the broncos they were to round up later in the day. His Stetson hat rested comfortably on his balding head, his chaps shone in the sunshine, and his spurs sparkled merrily. Yes, it was going to be a good day at the Circle T ranch. Heading for the corrals, he whistled to his favorite horse, Mary Lou. Her ears pricked up immediately, and she trotted to meet him at the fence.
"How's it going, girl?" he asked her pleasantly. With a little snort and a whinny she replied, "Just fine, thank you. Are we going for a ride today?"
"You bet!!" enthused Uncle Spen. " We are gonna go find us some broncos! Let's be on our way!"
Saddled and bridled in minutes, Mary Lou was off at a trot with Uncle Spen glued to the saddle. He had ridden for so many hours on this horse, he seemed to just melt into her and become one with his mount.
Before they found the broncos, they found a small herd of steers wandering around. Uncle Spen slowed Mary Lou to a walk so as not to startle the cattle. Looking closely at their rumps, he saw that not one of them had a brand! Mystery cattle! Better than finding broncos!