"I grow almost enthusiastic about it at times," she said.

"Its inhabitants are also especially kind." The man did not, however, respond as he might have done.

"It's a tolerably good country," he said gravely, and then glanced at the stranger.

"Nothing wrong at the ranch, I hope, Miss Nellie ?" "No,", said the girl.

"We have, however, heard that Jack is seriously ill, and I rode over because the spotted steer has broken away, and I found the trail led into the Somasco valley.