Masten was suave and solicitous. He jumped out of the buckboard and helped her down, performing a like service for Aunt Martha. Uncle Jepson got out himself. Then, as Ruth hesitated an instant, Masten bent over her.
“You must be tired, dear. Go in and explore the house. Get some refreshment and take a rest. I’ll attend to the baggage and the horses.”
He gave her a gentle pressure of the hand, and, followed by Uncle Jepson and Aunt Martha, she went indoors.
CHAPTER IV
A MEMORY OF THE RIDER
A quiet satisfaction shone from Ruth’s eyes when, accompanied by Aunt Martha and Uncle Jepson, she completed her inspection of the ranchhouse.
“It isn’t all that could be desired,” she told Aunt Martha, “but it is better than I expected.”
“It’s comfortable, dearie,” mildly smiled Aunt Martha.