“Queer, isn’t it, with so much vacant land adjacent to the town?” added Julie.
“How different it will seem from the mountains,” added Hester.
“You have not really seen Santa Fé, my dears,” said Mrs. Vernon. “Wait till you have gotten into the spirit of this ancient city and then judge.”
“The Captain is right. Once you feel the spirit of the ‘City of the Holy Faith,’ and know its history, you will doubtless decide it is the most alluring place you have visited this summer,” said Mr. Vernon.
“While Verny and I go out to assist Tally with the horses and burros, you scouts may as well go about and get a look at things,” suggested Mr. Glroy.
But Mrs. Vernon hastily interpolated: “Not till after every one has washed, and brushed away the dust and stains of travel; then we’ll meet on the piazza and decide what to do.”
“Will the police arrest us for going about the streets in riding breeches?” questioned Betty, fearfully.
“If the Indians wander in and out of town with scarcely enough on to cover their bodies, I doubt if any one will stop to notice our togs,” laughed Joan.
“I shouldn’t advise you to try the main streets and visit the stores, or stop to see the Museum and the Cathedral,” laughed Mr. Vernon.
Then the scouts hurried to the low-ceiled rooms they were to occupy, and were soon ridding themselves of the signs of the long trail.