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Show Page 16 "No sir," replied Ann. "But I'm sure he'll say it's okay." Ann had cleverly worked her father into a corner and he was too shocked to do anything except nod his head in agreement. "That's very generous," said Mr. Fisher. "But I couldn't accept such an unequal trade. A Texas longhorn isn't nearly as valuable as a Durham. Tell you what Ann, I'll give you the calf since it would have died anyway if you hadn't cared for it." So Dixie Burr became Ann's. Slippery Jim helped Ann build a private corral and shed for the calf. Then Ann made herself a little bedroom next to the calf's shelter so she could sleep near her pet, much to her family's amusement. But by then they were used to Ann's wild whims. That year Mr. Fisher left the Middlesex Cattle Company. Although he told the new manager about Dixie Burr's new owner, there were a lot of cowhands working for the company who didn't know. They recognized ownership only by a cow's brand. And Dixie Burr still wore the Middlesex brand. The following summer, when Dixie Burr was turned out to pasture with the other cattle, Ann kept a close eye on her, especially during the roundup. Then one night, as she always did, Ann rode out to drive Dixie Burr back to the house for the night. The calf was gone. |
