"But the business—the interest," said Bob. "Ain't riding like a man better than sitting or dressing to be stared at like a woman?"
"I think it's the most manly," Norton repeated.
"But not the most womanly?" said Esther.
"No, not the most womanly."
"Well, which is best?" somebody cried.
"Riding is the best for me," said Norton. "I should feel like a fool in diamonds."
"A Hindoo rajah, or a Persian shah, or an Arab emir wouldn't feel so," suggested David.
"I am not a Hindoo nor an Arab, though," said Norton. "If I am to give judgment I'll give it like a good American. And I say, that a saddle is better than a jewel-box any day; and it's better in my judgment to ride for one's life, than to make people's eyes wink with looking at you. Go on, Recorder!"
"Hatty Delaplaine. Capital, a dressmaker and dry-goods unlimited. Interest, nothing but new dresses."
"Riding is better than dressing," said the Judge. "Bob Francis has it yet."