There were many persons in the neighborhood of the Rainbow Ranch who were friends of Mr. and Mrs. Colter.
After many years in the community Mr. Colter, who originally had taken slight interest in matters outside his own ranch, had become one of the most influential men in the western part of the state.
From her girlhood Jacqueline Ralston had excited keen attention. The oldest of the former Ranch Girls, she had been famous for her daring and independence. A serious illness, after which it was thought she would never ride or walk again, stirred pity and affection. Then followed her recovery and marriage to the young Englishman, Frank Kent, who afterwards inherited the title.
On the death of her husband, still a young woman, Lady Kent had returned to the old ranch. Here she had laid aside her title and devoted herself to politics. Running for Congress, she had failed to be elected and a few months later married her former guardian.
Two weeks following their honeymoon it was Mr. Colter's idea, not his wife's or daughters', that they give a large, informal reception to their friends.
One evening on the wide circular veranda at the left of the house and opening out of the dining-room, the family was seated at dinner.
"Don't you think we should give an entertainment of some kind to our neighbors?" Mr. Colter remarked unexpectedly.
Jack looked quickly at her husband, astonished and amused.
Lina's glance at her father, if not enthusiastic over the proposal (she was a little shy of strangers), expressed approval.
The two younger girls revealed no interest one way or the other.