“Oh, Lefty, Silvertail is marvelous!” she declared. “In all the world there’s not a horse to compare with him.”
“Nor a rider who stacks up with you,” replied the cowboy affectionately. “I suppose you saw the posters advertisin’ the rodeo.”
“No! When is it coming, Lefty?” Connie asked eagerly.
“Next week. Entries close Thursday night. They’re offerin’ some good prizes this year. Five hundred dollars for the best gal bronco rider. I remember you won out in that event when you were just a kid——”
“I’m afraid I was a better rider then than I am now,” said Connie. “I’ve been out of practice for three years.”
“You can still ride circles around all the girls in this county,” Lefty insisted loyally. “It might be an easy way to pick up some money.”
“Or a few broken bones,” added Connie with a laugh. “No, I think I’ll let someone else try for that five hundred dollars.”
After breakfast she asked Forest Blakeman if she might have a talk with him.
“I reckon you can,” he replied with a frown. “It’s time you learn just how matters are around here. I hate to tell you, Miss Connie, but the old Rainbow is headed for the rocks.”
“You gave me no hint of it in your letters,” said Connie.