Since her sister's departure she had taken sole charge of her father's domestic affairs and the few rude servants he employed, with a certain inherited following of his own moods and methods.

To the neighbors she was known as "Miss Hays,"-- a dubious respect that, in a community of familiar "Sallies," "Mamies," "Pussies," was grimly prophetic.

Yet she rejoiced in the Oriental appellation of "Zuleika." To this it is needless to add that it was impossible to conceive any one who looked more decidedly Western.
"Ye kin put some things in my carpet bag agin the time the sled comes round," said her father meditatively, without looking up.
"Then you're not coming back tonight ?" asked the girl curiously.

"What's goin' on at the summit, father ?" "I am," he said grimly.

"You don't reckon I kalkilate to stop thar! I'm going on as far as Horseley's to close up that contract afore the weather changes." "I kinder allowed it was funny you'd go to the hotel to-night.