A short economics note arguing that the increase in sheep numbers in the northwestern United States during the free wool period (1894-97) does not show the industry was prosperous without a tariff. The author argues that growers held over flocks in hope of a Republican victory and renewed protection in 1896, citing falling sheep prices, Montana shipment statistics for 1893-98, and a quotation from Senator Warren. It closes by noting that dry land farming, not tariff policy, is displacing large range flocks in Montana.