noon
-- Why , down near the corral , '' replied the boy , repeating and answering the question . `` I want to look him over , '' simply said the old foreman . The two remounted and continued down the valley . The noon hour had brought the herd in for its daily water , and no animal was overlooked on the homeward ride . The summer gloss had passed and the hairy , shaggy , winter coats of the cattle almost hid the brands , while three to six months ' rest on a perfect range was reflected in the splendid condition of the general herd . `` That 's one feature of the winter intrenchments that need n't worry us , '' said Priest ; `` the cattle have the tallow to withstand any ordinary winter . '' `` And the horses are all rolling fat , '' added Dell .