"I've had good luck. They're a strong lot. Mick O'Neill is taking them to the hollow. You must ride out with me to-night for a look at them."
"But I can't, Jim. And I'd love to. These wretched people come to-day. Don't you remember? I can't leave them to father the first night."
"I forgot them. Hang it! that settles it, I suppose."
"We're on the way to meet the coach now. Come along. You have nothing else to do, have you?"
"I'll come, of course. You ought to pull that hat down, girl. Your face is getting burnt to bits."
"You said you liked me brown."
Old Neville was hard engaged with the passer by. The two people heard his harangue, and saw him blowing cigar smoke in a hurry. Soon he drove the enemy through the office door, pursuing him hard in retreat. At once Maud went close to Power.
"Jim," she said, "I've been so nice to father all day. He is splendid just now. As soon as you get him alone, ask him about our marriage. He'll be reasonable this time, I know. I'll find you a chance. Why, Jim, what's the matter to-day?"
"Matter with me?"