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Don't inquire into a person's past. Take the measure of a man for what he is today.
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Never steal another man's horse. A
horse thief pays with his life.
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Defend yourself whenever necessary.
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Look out for your own.
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Remove your guns before sitting at the dining table.
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Never order anything weaker than whiskey.
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Don't make a threat without expecting dire consequences.
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Never pass anyone on the trail without saying "Howdy".
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When approaching someone from behind, give a loud greeting before you get within shooting
range.
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Don't wave at a man on a horse, as it might spook the horse. A nod is the proper
greeting.
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After you pass someone on the trail, don't look back at him. It implies you don't trust
him.
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Riding another man's horse without his permission is nearly as bad as making love to his wife.
Never even bother another man's horse.
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Always fill your whiskey glass to the brim.
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A cowboy doesn't talk much; he saves his breath for
breathing.
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No matter how weary and hungry you are after a long day in the saddle, always tend to your horse's
needs before your own, and get your horse some feed before you eat.
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Cuss all you want, but only around men, horses and cows.
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Complain about the cooking and you become the cook.
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Always drink your whiskey with your gun hand, to show your friendly intentions.
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Do not practice ingratitude.
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A cowboy is pleasant even when out of sorts. Complaining is
what quitters do, andcowboys hate quitters.
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Always be courageous. Cowards aren't tolerated in any outfit worth its salt.
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A cowboy always helps someone in need, even a stranger or an
enemy.
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Never try on another man's hat.
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Be hospitable to strangers. Anyone who wanders in, including an enemy, is welcome at the dinner table. The same was
true for riders who joined cowboys on the range.
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Give your enemy a fighting chance.
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Never wake another man by shaking or touching him, as he might wake suddenly and shoot
you.
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Real cowboys are modest. A braggert who is "all gurgle and
no guts" is not tolerated.