“Oh, what a pity!” exclaimed Merle.
“From one point of view, perhaps,” answered Dick. “But from a hundred other points of view, what a blessing! There will be a dozen happy homes for every steer the range now feeds!”
“But La Siesta will remain just as it is,” cried Grace.
“That will be all right,” replied Dick, gallantly, “It’s already a happy home.”
The ladies smiled pleasantly.
“Then this will mean the elimination of Mr. Ben Thurston,” observed Mrs. Darlington.
“The greatest blessing of all,” declared Merle, clapping her hands. “You see, I am already converted to the change, Mr. Willoughby,” she added merrily.
“But what about my job?” asked Munson in mock dolefulness.
“Consult Mr. Robles,” laughed Grace. “He may take pity on you, and find you a place as handy man on his estate.”
In merry mood they all sallied forth. The saddle horses were waiting, and standing beside them was an elderly Spanish woman.