Frank had also met Mrs. Arlington, and he had seen in her a haughty, domineering, icy woman, ready to do anything to gain her ends. She was proud and high-headed, although she had once been a poor girl. She looked down in scorn and contempt on all poor people.
But Merry had not forgotten June Arlington, who had a truly high-bred face of great attractiveness, and who was vivacious yet reserved, proud yet considerate, high-spirited yet kind. He had not forgotten the girl, and ever he thought of her with feelings of kindness, for with her own hands she had restored to him the precious papers when they had been stolen from him, by agents of the trust, assisted by her mother.
He knew Dick admired June, and he did not wonder at it, for about June Arlington there was such fascination as few girls possess.
Still Merry could not help wondering if June would one day develop into a woman like her mother. Such a result did not seem possible.
Midday passed, and the afternoon waned, yet without any diminishing of the scorching heat in the ravine.
Frank's water was gone, and he began to feel the torments of thirst.
He had counted the time as it passed. Finally he[Pg 21] was satisfied that Crowfoot had accomplished the task he had set out to perform. The papers were mailed. Probably they were already on their way to Dick Merriwell at Fardale.
"Well," muttered Frank, "I think I'll go out and look these ruffians over now."