One of them was curled up on a long sofa, a book in her hand. The leaves had fallen together, as if she were asleep.
Another figure, the smallest of all, was almost lost in an immense upholstered blue chair. Her black hair made a contrasting spot of color against the blue; her eyes were closed and the little figure was drooping with weariness. Her cheeks were a deep rose.
Seated beside each other on low stools close together were two other girls, who slowly arose at Jack's entrance.
They were Jeanette and Olivia Colter.
Jeanette's face was pale and her lips closed firmly together. Her gray-blue eyes looked darker, her uplifted nose more mutinous.
The fairer, gentler girl beside her appeared equally grave, if less unfriendly.
Crossing the room, Jeanette held out her hand stiffly to the newcomer.
Her father had delayed his entrance, thinking it might be easier for them all if his welcome came later.
"I am sorry we did not hear you arrive. You must have come on horseback. We thought the car was to be sent for you. We have been riding ourselves all day and got in very late. Lina and Eda, as you see, are asleep."
At this moment the oldest of the four new Ranch Girls opened her eyes and rose.