uldn't come alone, of course; it wouldn't be proper--and Imo would
be horrified. Well, you may as well sit down and talk to me, Mr.
Bryant, for you can't work alone, and I've come to stay awhile.
Imogene told me what a nice talk she had with you the afternoon I went
to the ruins, and I hoped you'd come soon again, but you never did."

"Perhaps I haven't been exactly neighbourly."

He lowered himself to the ground and sat cross-legged, considering
her.

"I thought that possibly I had offended you in going off so abruptly
with Charlie Menocal," she said, with eyes fastened on his. "You and
he aren't very good friends. I know----"

"We're not friends at all; we're enemies."

"That need not keep you away from us. He has been very civil and kind,
but neither Imogene nor I have any particular fancy for the man.
Besides, I think his chief interest in life centres around a girl
living on Diamond Creek, named Louise Graham; he hinted that they were
as good as engaged. Very likely we shall see little more of him. So if
your dislike at meeting him is the reason for your staying away, you
haven't a good reason at all. Don't you think Imo and I ever tire of
listening to each other? Any two girls would, living alone by
themselves. After your promise at the ford we were delighted--and how
many calls have we had from you? Just one. With me away, too!"

"To-morrow will be Sunday; I'll stop work at noon and come," he
declared.

She pointed a forefinger at him and wiggled her thumb, in imitation of
a pistol.

"Hold up your right hand and swear it," she commanded, "or I'll
shoot." She continued to menace Bryant while he obeyed. "There, now
you're safe. And bring that hungry boy and we'll feed you both; this
is a dinner invitation, understand. Now, tell me about everything."

"Everything?"

"All you're doing with that three-legged telescope and these stakes."

She smoothed her dress and manifested an expectant interest. The
impression Bryant had gained at the first accidental meeting at Perro
Creek, of her good looks, of her vitality and irrepressible spirits,
was heightened. As he recollected his feeling of pique at her visit
with Charlie Menocal to the ruined pueblo, he realized that he had
indulged in a bit of senseless, unwarranted umbrage; and now had, in
consequence, a quick desire to make amends. It was as if he must
reestablish himself in her good opinion and his own.

Their talk ran on from topic to topic. The gaiety