One Riot, One Ranger. Or that's how the saying goes anyway. And the horses were glad of that fact, since the Texas Rangers were authorized to ride a horse to death and be reimbursed for it, if duty called.

The Rangers were formed by Stephen F. Austin in the 1823, served the newly formed Texas well in breaking the Indian tribes, and was later reformed under Texas Governor Richard Coke, himself a stern Virginian of immense stature, who used the Rangers to stop Indian attacks and kidnappings.

The Rangers became the stuff of legend after sorting out the lawless oil fields and later in breaking the grip of the gambling rackets in Galveston. They were involved in the Mexican War and some unfortunate business with Pancho Villa in 1916.

In all my years, I've never seen a Ranger, but I doubt that many resemble Chuck Norris, who starred as Texas Ranger, Cordell Walker, during the 1990's. This group of horsemen resembles a West Texas Swing Band more than the leathery head-breakers of Texas lore. Ah, well, at least they seem to be friendly.