32 



A CALIFORNIA TRAMP. 



of striking horns, and the petulant cries of the night guard, 

 weary with loss of sleep and keeping the restless cattle closed 

 up, that the watchful Indian might not break in and steal. 

 Persistent drumming on the wagon, and entreaties of the bullies 

 and cursings of the weaklings of the train, and the evolving 

 process indicated by the initial cries of the wagon-master is 

 consummated, and the sleepy drivers stand, ox-yoke on shoul- 

 der, a bow in one hand and bow-key in teeth, ready for work. 



The Corral. 



The last of the straggling herd is now in, and the voice of 

 the wagon-master, hoarse from yesterday's shouting at men 

 and oxen, yells " Yoke up ! " Then comes a scene of noise and 

 confusion of from ten to thirty minutes, according to the alac- 

 rity of the men. 



In our train there are a wagon-master, an assistant, two ex- 

 tras, to help in different places, or take the place of sick or in- 



