“I have to tell you so much more of my new plans, Judy,” digressed Jane, as Aunt Mary signalled to the Jap dinner was finished. “I have only just begun on my new prospectus. I haven’t even named my little artist.” “I am sure we will have the best year ever,” replied the guest. “We have had Adrienne, the French girl, and a couple of other high-class Europeans last year, but we have never before entertained a Polish girl. I know perfectly well how the Marian Seaton crowd will regard her. With horns, you can be sure.” “Oh, I have counted on that,” Jane admitted. “All the more room for fun. If our new friend is not too sensitive,” and the gray eyes expressed just the least glint of suppressed anxiety. “Indeed, we are equal to the opposition now, no matter what attack they take. It is a wonder to me they don’t promptly capitulate.” “Too much steam in the wrong valve,” informed Jane. “It has to be drawn off in the trouble pipe.” “Or might result in an explosion,” helped out Mr. Allen. “Janie, I suppose you often get your mining efficiency mixed with your psychology.” He turned to Judith hospitably. “Miss Stearns, I cannot tell you how pleased we are that you have been able to make this visit. Janie and I were just about at the end of our rope on the trail of a good time, when we got your wire. Now we have an incentive, for we both love to show off, don’t we, Janie?” “I’ll match you, Dad,” she challenged. “I believe I can show off more high spots around El Capitan than you can. I even know how to catch copper in tin cans.” At this all laughed. Janie had made a reputation early in her ranch life following the boys who staked claims and attempted to work the mines with purloined tin cans. “I thought perhaps we would arrange a little party to go into Union Centre for to-morrow if you care to, girls,” Aunt Mary injected. “The Indians are in, and we may find some trinkets suitable for souvenirs.” “Splendiforous, Auntie. I want a couple of baskets so much, and some bead bags to take back. I think I’ll give the faculty all pretty bead bags, as vacation gifts.” “Peace offerings,” suggested Judith. “I think that a fine idea. Wonder if I couldn’t find a bag with an apology beaded on it? I owe one to my Latin teacher.” “Well, the evening is slipping, or climbing, whichever you choose, young ladies, and I am going to run around the corral to do a little inspecting to-night. Would you care to go?” asked Mr. Allen. “Oh, I should love to!” exclaimed Judith with enthusiasm. “I have always longed to see a ranch outside the movies. Jane, I had no idea you owned all Montana.” “We really do not quite own the entire state,” replied Jane, echoing the facetious tone of her chum. “But dad has quite a corner of it. Yes, we will go with you, Dadykins, and maybe Judy will have an opportunity of judging Fedario’s talent. He is sure to be in the chair-tree with his guitar. Dad, why don’t you organize a glee club?”