"Indeed?"
"Yes, sir, the Burrows girl up at the Throne. At first I hope to do something at breaking horses, then take land down the valley. Her life won't be rougher than it is now."
The Colonel smiled, because at last he knew the secret of La Mancha's reformation.
"May I congratulate you? I do most heartily, for I'm told that she's the nicest and prettiest girl in Kootenay."
"Will you come to the wedding, sir, on the twenty-fifth, at the Mission? The Padre says he'll be ready for me at noon."
"I would like to come very much," said the Colonel; "but among other details—mind I know you well—have you the young lady's consent?"
"She says I'm not half good enough for her—that looks all right, sir,—eh?"
The Colonel laughed. "I'll be there if I can."
"And give the bride away, sir?"
"But how about Burrows?"