“A little snow won’t melt us hardened tourists!” exclaimed Eleanor, laughingly.
“Not after one has lived through Flat Top blizzards,” added Polly, springing into the saddle on the horse she was to ride.
“That’s all right, miss, but October is the latest month the guides think safe for folks to try for the peak. If you-all insist upon going up, I can take you, but it must be at your own risk, remember,” explained the man.
“The weather has been unusually warm and open,” said Jack, coaxingly, “and we are sure there is no risk to take.”
“The guide ought to know his territory better than we do, Jack,” argued Mrs. Courtney, troubled at what would be best to do.
“Oh, come on, folks!” commanded Dodo, impatiently.
“Yes, do come on, or the day will pass in arguing,” abetted Jack, jumping into the saddle.
“Well, if you-all will promise me not to go beyond the zone which I think safe and will agree to turn and come back the moment I signify the return, I’ll take you,” finally agreed the guide.
“Don’t you do it, if there is any unusual risk,” begged Mrs. Courtney, anxiously.
“No, I won’t! If the young people will promise me that, it will be perfectly safe,” returned the man.