SchleigeFs party believed the dead man had stolen no horses, but that cattlemen thought so little of human life, they had hung an innocent man, in order to scare them into giving up the survey.

There was no evidence that it was the work of the Boslers or any clue as to the identity of the parties who committed the deed, and perhaps the man had stolen a horse some time and the vigilantes had just caught him.

However, a general impression prevailed as to who it was and why it had been done. If so, Alex. Schleigel was built of different stuff than they had calculated. He, the old soldier, continued his work and finished the survey in due time.

Mark Bouton arrived over the Texas Trail in 1873. He decided that Bear creek, about fifty miles northeast of Cheyenne, looked good to him, and here he went into the cow business. On his way to the north, Mark had taken a side trip into Denver, and there he met his affinity. After settling down on Bear creek he returned to Denver and sought out his "Virginia," and brought her with him to the ranch. The romance of Virginia Bouton, placed upon the range the old and familiar name. "VB" brand.

One born to the range, cannot change his habits instantly, and while anchored on BeaT creek, Mark Bouton traveled much. Mrs. Bouton frequently accompanied him, and at such times he gave way to the passion of

HISTORY OF WESTERN NEBRASKA