H. Bedford-Jones

“ Templeton Buck seemed to be the big power in the county, to judge from that conversation in Galway Mike's place, and Buck apparently had it all fixed to take over the Shumway ranch in the near future—and Estella likewise.
Upon passing the turnout that led to the Running Dog, Robinson drew rein and studied the ground in some surprise. He had followed the back trail of Brady and Knute, but to his astonishment saw that they had not come from the Running Dog at all. They had come from some point beyond it—and the only point beyond it that Robinson knew of was Jake Harper's ranch. ”

“ Jack Robinson jogged along reflectively, thinking of the man who had just left him.
"A faithful soul," he observed to his pinto. "Absolutely devoted boy, isn't he? Quick tempered, a wonder with his gun, and yet backing water all the time because he's afraid Estella would be left alone in the world if they wiped him out. Some man, Miguel! But none too bright. Give the devil his due, Johnny boy; a good man, only not quite good enough. He couldn't prevent the ranch going to the dogs, although he's ready to die with it. ”

“ We have none. There is only old Jake Harper, who has the Circle Bar up beyond us. None of the others help us or know us. New people have come into the country; times have changed. Besides——"
"Templeton Buck?" suggested Robinson.
"Yes. They have tried often to get me," was the statement, simply given, "but for the sake of Miss Estella I have avoided offense. The Running Dog punchers make what use they like of our place; their foreman, Matt Brady, has even dared to fence in the springs adjoining the Buck ranch."
"Brady?" said Robinson suddenly, his eyes narrowing. "Matt Brady?" ”