A Cowboy's Life

You could see the lone figure in the pale, fading light, Bedding down the doggies for a restful night. He had been in the saddle since early morn', Now feeling the aches of the drive that made him feel "worn". The three other horses he had taken from the remuda that day, Were now being tied and fed, as they whinnied and neighed. "Woh, cattle...Woh, cattle", he sang softly to the steers, Another six weeks on the trail and he would be filling his night with beers. When the herd was quiet, the first 'Nighthawks' came, He sighed with relief, as he tugged on the reins. In just a few minutes he was putting his saddle and bedroll aright, the grub made...biscuits, beans, and salt pork for tonight. Then he unbuckled his gunbelt and laid down in his place, Knowing full well, he'd be up before dawn to relieve the man on the trace. It was hard work but he loved it, or so he said, More of the Chisolm waited for them up ahead. Yet it was the cows, the horses, the danger, and freedom he dared, And those few other comrades whose journey he shared. Yes, it was this "Cowboy Life" full of its highs and lows, It was all that he needed, and was the life he chose.