From long experience Columbine could divine when Jack had done something in the interest of self and then had awakened to possible consequences. She pulled away from him without replying, and knocked on the office door.
"Come in," called the rancher.
Columbine went in. "Hello, dad! Do you want me?"
Belllounds sat at an old table, bending over a soiled ledger, with a stubby pencil in his huge hand. When he looked up Columbine gave a little start.
"Where've you been?" he asked, gruffly.
"I've been calling on Mrs. Andrews," replied Columbine.
"Did you go thar to see her?"
"Why--certainly!" answered Columbine, with a slow break in her speech.
"You didn't go to meet Wilson Moore?"
"No."