After that they explored the woods, threaded by countless paths, ever opening out in new surprises of green-painted rustic tables and benches in leafy nooks, many of which were already pre-empted by family parties.

On a grassy slope, tree-surrounded, they spread a newspaper and sat down on the short grass already tawny-dry under the California sun.

Half were they minded to do this because of the grateful indolence after six days of insistent motion, half in conservation for the hours of dancing to come.
"Bert Wanhope'll be sure to come," Mary chattered.

"An' he said he was going to bring Billy Roberts--'Big Bill,' all the fellows call him.

He's just a big boy, but he's awfully tough.