The statement about Megget gave the ranchman a new train of
thought. He realized for the first time that he was engaged in a
cattle war which would only end with his ruin or the capture of the
entire band of thieves. And being a man who could not be
frightened, the owner of the Half-Moon Ranch vowed to accomplish
the latter alternative.

The hard ride was tiring the ponies, wiry though they were, and the
men on their backs were obliged to resort to almost continual use
of their spurs. But at last the buildings of the ranch home came
into view, and soon Mr. Wilder and Nails were at the corral.

"Saddle the best of the bunch for me," ordered the ranchman as he
dismounted. "I'll go to the house for a bite and then start for
the Three Stars."

"What about me?" inquired the cowboy, disappointment in his voice
at the thought of being left behind.

"I want you to ride into Tolopah. Don't say anything about the
raid. Just listen round and see if you can learn anything." And
turning on his heel, Mr. Wilder started for the house.

"Where are the boys? You didn't let them stay to hunt, did you?"
inquired his wife anxiously as he sat down at the table and ordered
Hop Joy to bring him something to eat.

"No. They'll be here during the afternoon. I'm going to get Jim
Snider and his outfit. Nails says they are at home." And briefly