"Very," they said with sincerity.
"But father will find out—I mean—they will worry about us. We have been gone—quite a while," protested Treasure.
"He will not worry. He knows nobody would hurt nice little preacher girls like you. I am willing—more than willing—to take the car home, but I've got to find a place to leave my horse, and I've got to have some tea. Is it a bargain or not? You come with me for tea, I take you home—and I will try to sneak you in the back way so your father will not catch you. But no tea, no sneak."
Zee stood up. "Treasure, you may sit here and be ministerial if you like. I want some tea."
"That is something like. Now, you drive the car down the road to the rustic gate, and—"
"Who, me? I am tired of driving. I guess I won't go after all."
"Well, then you girls must sit in the back seat and lead the horse. I shall drive slowly."
"I feel more like walking. I do not want to ride."
"It is a mile and a half, and you've got to get home some time. Don't be silly. I know how to handle a car."