“This is such a lovely ranch,” Miss Gladwin declared enthusiastically.
“Yes, isn’t it,” echoed Miss Parker. “And so Mexican! I love the atmosphere.”
Connie’s spirits soared. She had become so accustomed to complaints during the past day, that she had begun to think nothing about Rainbow Ranch was right. It was a pleasure to meet two dudes who were not difficult to please.
The teachers were delighted with their bedrooms. They confessed to Connie that they had never ridden horseback, but were dying to try it.
“We’ll take a trip to Lover’s Leap tomorrow,” Connie promised. “And perhaps to the cliff dwellings.”
Hearing the sound of clattering hoofs in the courtyard, the girl excused herself and hurried outside. Silvertail, minus a rider, was wandering aimlessly about near the corrals. Before Connie could reach the horse, Alkali came running from the barn and caught his bridle.
“Cecil must have been thrown!” Connie gasped. “Oh, I hope he’s not badly hurt.”
Alkali said nothing but a look of smug satisfaction came over his face.
Connie mounted Silvertail and rode out to learn what had happened. She had not gone far when she saw Helena approaching on horseback with Cecil trudging along beside her.
“I’m so glad you’re not injured,” Connie said in relief as she drew rein.