It had lost its verdure; the red lilies and banks of yellow flowers had withered on their parched stalks.

When they reached the level the grass was only a few inches high and the wide plain rolled back in the strong light, shining pale-yellow and gray.

It was only when the shadows passed that one could see streaks and patches of faded green.

In the distance a cluster of roofs broke the bare expanse, and Helen knew they marked the Wilkinson ranch.

A horse and buggy approached it, looking very small, and she glanced at Sadie, who said nothing, although her face was stern.