"Of course, of course, wife," answered the man of the house, cheerily. "But where are they?"
"In the sitting-room. Go in and speak to them, won't you? and ask them out to supper; it's just ready."
"I'll do that!" he said, hanging up the towel he had been using.
In another minute he was shaking hands cordially with Rupert, while congratulating him on his escape from the Indians, and assuring him and Juanita of their welcome to the hospitalities of the ranch as long as they might be pleased to accept them. "No obligations, young man," he said, interrupting Rupert's expression of thanks; "you'd do the same for me if our situations were reversed; and besides, any decent stranger is a godsend in these lonely parts; and the cost of entertaining, where you have everything on your place and no market for it, is just about nothing. Come, walk out to supper," he added; "it's on the table, and best while it's hot."
He led the way, and they followed right willingly, for the smell of the viands was extremely appetizing, and the milk had by no means appeased their hunger.
Mrs. Baird greeted them with a smile, pointed out their seats, and with an inclination of the head toward the younger members of the family, said, "My sons, Mr——"
"Keith," supplied Rupert, as she paused with an inquiring look at him; "Rupert Keith is my name, and this young lady," glancing at Juanita, "is—"
There was an instant's hesitation, then he added, "my wife," coloring slightly as he spoke.
He was conscious of a furtive exchange of wondering, inquiring glances among his entertainers, but no remark was made.
They all sat down to the table, the father asked a blessing upon the food, and the meal began.