"The Pony Rider Boys in Texas; Or, The Veiled Riddle of the Plains" by Frank Gee Patchin is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a group of boys, known as the Pony Rider Boys, led by the adventurous Tad Butler and his companions, as they embark on a thrilling cattle drive through Texas. Their journey promises action, challenges, and exciting horsemanship amid the backdrop of cowboy life. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to Tad Butler and his friend Ned Rector, who are observing the festive scenes of San Diego, Texas, on the Fourth of July. Just as they are becoming acquainted with their surroundings, a group of wild cowboys charge through the streets, creating chaos and excitement. After an adventurous encounter with one of the cowboys, Tad and his friends prepare to join a cattle outfit, setting the stage for their upcoming challenges and adventures on the cattle drive. This opening effectively sets up the tone of adventure and camaraderie that characterizes the rest of the boys' journey. (This is an automatically generated summary.)