Cowboy was out west of Mancos riding in the dense cedars and sagebrush. He was searching for strays left over by the big cattle drive that passed through about two weeks ago. Some of the unbranded calves would get lost from the herd and they were free to anyone that could throw a loop on them and brand them. Cowboy had collected three or four to increase the herd at his ranch.
He was in one of the thickets when he heard screaming and crying. He came upon a teenage Ute girl who was in pain. She indicated she had been bitten by a rattlesnake. Her foot was swollen and she was weak. Cowboy knew he could not move her today and decided to make camp. He made a makeshift corral for the calves he had rounded up. He fed and gave the girl some water and let her use his blanket to stay warm and brought her close to the warmth of the fire.
In the morning Cowboy cooked a quick breakfast of bacon and beans which the girl ravishingly ate. Then Cowboy scooped up the girl and headed for the Medicine Man Lodge west of Mancos. He took the girl inside. The Medicine Man told Cowboy that the worst was over. She will live and should have a complete recovery. The Medicine Man said he would take the girl back to her people. He said, “Cowboy, you saved this girl's life. My people will be eternally grateful to you”. He gave Cowboy an amulet which he said, “This will give you protection against evil, danger, or disease. Wear it well.” Cowboy accepted the gift and left to finish his job of rounding up stray calves.