“In the name of all that’s lovely!” ejaculated Jim. “What are you doing up at this time in the morning?”
“I’m up by this time pretty nearly every morning, Mister Impertinence.
“I thought I might be in time to catch you at Mrs. Clunie’s before you left. I just heard of this enterprise late last night.”
She laughed.
“My, but that was a great coup. You’re a dandy pair! I just wanted to wish you both the best of luck right at the start.”
“Thanks awfully!” grinned Jim, “for we sure are getting it.”
“Oh, tush! This is nothing. Okanagan ranchers don’t worry about a little snow in November or December. It’s a good warm blanket for the roots of the trees when the cold comes along, and a fine drink for them later on in the spring-time.
“Here’s something for your first meal on the ranch. Who’s to be cook,––you Jim, or Phil?”
Phil glanced over quickly and Eileen’s cheeks took on a rosier tint.
“Oh, Jim’s to be the rancher and I’ve to earn a living 262 for both in the meantime,” answered Phil, “so I guess he will be cook––unless we can hog-tie one somewhere.”