“That’s very generous of you, Mr. Grimes,” Connie said gratefully. “Will you be staying on?”
“Yes, indeed. I’m thoroughly enjoying ranch life. And I think it may have a beneficial effect upon both Cecil and Helena.”
Connie felt as if a great load had been lifted from her shoulders. After talking with Mr. Grimes for a few minutes she went back toward the bunk house. Meeting Lefty she paused to tell him the good news.
“The old gent is a real man,” the cowboy declared admiringly. “Too bad his son can’t be more like him.”
“Yes, it is.”
“Maybe a ducking a day would do him good just like the old man said.”
“Perhaps, but don’t you try it,” Connie warned with a laugh. “From now on you’re to keep out of Cecil’s way as much as possible.”
“Don’t worry,” Lefty rejoined, “I don’t have any hankerin’ for that sissy’s company.”
Connie returned to the bunk house to resume her talk with Jim Barrows. Now that she had thought the matter over she decided there could be only one course open to her. Unless the man made a satisfactory explanation for his strange actions she must discharge him.
Connie knocked on the door and, when there was no answer, pushed it open. The room was deserted.