I'll send Lem or Wade up thar an' see if we can do anythin' fer the boy." "Dad--that's just like you," replied Columbine, with her hand seeking his broad shoulder.
"Ahuh! Say, Collie, hyar's letters from 'most everybody in Kremmlin' wantin' to be invited up fer October first.

How about askin' 'em ?" "The more the merrier," replied Columbine.
"Wal, I reckon I'll not ask anybody." "Why not, dad ?" "No one can gamble on thet son of mine, even on his weddin'-day," replied Belllounds, gloomily.
"Dad, What'd Jack do to-day ?" "I'm not sayin' he did anythin'," answered the rancher.
"Dad, you can gamble on me." "Wal, I should smile," he said, putting his big arm around her.

"I wish you was Jack an' Jack was you." At that moment the young man spoken of slouched into the room, with his head bandaged, and took a seat at the supper-table.
"Wal, Collie, let's go an' get it," said the rancher, cheerily.

"I can always eat, anyhow." "I'm hungry as a bear," rejoined Columbine, as she took her seat, which was opposite Jack.
"Where 'ye you been ?" he asked, curiously.
"Why, good evening, Jack! Did you finally notice me ?...

I've been riding Pronto, the first time since he was hurt.