They had made no money, that was true; but they had lost none.

Thank God, the homestead was free of mortgage; one good season would more than make up the difference.
He was in a better mood by the time he reached the driveway that led up to the ranch house, and as he raised his eyes toward the house itself, he could not but feel that the sight of his home was cheering.

The ranch house was set in a great grove of eucalyptus, oak, and cypress, enormous trees growing from out a lawn that was as green, as fresh, and as well-groomed as any in a garden in the city.

This lawn flanked all one side of the house, and it was on this side that the family elected to spend most of its time.

The other side, looking out upon the Home ranch toward Bonneville and the railroad, was but little used.