"I'm glad you feel that way about it, Frank Haley," she said primly. "But I'm very sorry to say we don't."
"Now, I have put my foot in it," cried Frank ruefully, turning his irresistible smile full upon her. "What shall I do to make up, Mollie? Hold your hand or something?"
His free hand closed over hers, but she snatched her own away with indignation that ended in a chuckle.
"Tend to your knitting," she warned him. "Didn't you see that we almost ran over that dog?"
But however much they might joke about the possibility of their not realizing their dreams for the summer, the Outdoor Girls were really worried about it, and the next few days were anxious ones for them.
Suppose Mrs. Nelson should yield to her husband's arguments and resolve to sell the ranch after all? For awhile it almost seemed as though she were about to do this very thing, and the suspense nearly drove the girls frantic.
Then something happened to turn the tide in their direction. And how the girls afterwards blessed that loud-necktied, check-suited man!
It was Betty who came to the door to admit this angel in disguise, it being the hired girl's day out. Her first glance at the stranger served to stamp him as one of those loud-voiced, flashily dressed persons commonly referred to as "sports," and at this first glance Betty took a violent dislike to him.
However, being accustomed to treat every one with kindliness, she asked him gravely whom he wished to see.
"Is Mrs. Nelson at home?" he asked ingratiatingly.