Brackton came out with Red Wilson, and they had to have their
say.
"Wal, durned if some of you fellers ain't kind an' complimentary," remarked
Macomber, scratching his head. "But then every feller can't have hoss sense."
Then, looking up to see Lucy Bostil coming along the road, he brightened as if
with inspiration.
Lucy was at home among them, and the shy eyes of the younger riders,
especially Van, were nothing if not revealing. She greeted them with a bright
smile, and when she saw Brackton she burst out:
"Oh, Mr. Brackton, the wagon's in, and did my box come? . . . To-day's my
birthday."
"'Deed it did, Lucy; an' many more happy ones to you!" he replied, delighted
in her delight. "But it's too heavy for you. I'll send it up--or mebbe one of
the boys--"
Five riders in unison eagerly offered their services and looked as if each had
spoken first. Then Macomber addressed her:
"Miss Lucy, you see this here sorrel?"
"Ah! the same lazy crowd and the same old story--a horse trade!" laughed Lucy.
"There's a little difference of opinion," said Macomber, politely indicating
the riders.
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