One by one the long, happy July days slipped away. There was no lack of amusement, no time that hung heavy--there was so much to be seen, so much to be done! Very soon after the trip to Quentina's home, Mr. Tim produced from somewhere five stout little ponies, warranted to be broken to "skirts"--which Genevieve had said would be absolutely necessary, as the girls would never consent to ride astride. It was a nervous morning, however, for five of the Happy Hexagons when the horses were led up to the door. Cordelia was frankly white-faced and trembling. Even Tilly looked a little doubtful, as she said, trying to speak with her usual lightness: "Oh, we _know_, of course, Genevieve, that these little beasts won't teeter up and down like Reddy's broncho; and we hope they'll bear in mind that Westerners ought to be politely gentle with Easterners, who aren't brought up to ride jumping jacks. But still, we can't help wondering." "Genevieve, I--I really think I won't ride at all to-day," stammered Cordelia, faintly; "that is, if you don't mind." "But I do mind," rejoined Genevieve, looking much distressed. "Of course, girls, I wouldn't urge you against your will, for the world; but we can't have half the fun here unless you ride, for we go everywhere, 'most, in the saddle. And, honestly, Mr. Tim says these horses are regular cows. Father told him he must get steady ones. Won't you please--try it? It will break my heart, if you don't. You see I've said so much to the boys, since I came, about your riding! They were so surprised to think you could ride, and I was so proud to say you did!" "You--you were?" stammered Cordelia. "Yes." "Well, young ladies," called Mr. Tim, at that moment, "here's the steadiest little string of horses going! Who'll have the first pick?" "I will," cried Cordelia, wetting her dry lips, and speaking with a stern determination that yet did not quite hide the shake in her voice. "That is--I don't care about my pick, but I'm going to ride--right away--quick!" she finished, determined that at least Genevieve should not be ashamed--of her. After all, it was only the first five minutes that were hard. The little horses were politeness itself, and seemed fully to realize the responsibilities of their position. The girls, determined not to shame Genevieve, acquitted themselves with a grace and ease that brought forth an appreciative cheer from the boys as the young people rode away. "Now I feel as if I were in Texas," exulted Tilly, drawing in a full breath of the fresh, early morning air. "I'm so glad--so glad we're all in Texas," cried Genevieve, looking about her with shining eyes. * * * * *