touched by one of Cupid's darts to fancy himself in love with his
chum's pretty sister, it was good judgment for his mother to know all
there was to be known about the girl. Not that the letter confessed
this state of affairs, but the mother feared that such must be the
case--for who could resist loving her handsome, clever boy?

"Maw! I _said--Anne Stewart is perfectly lovely!"

"Oh, yes, Polly! So I believe," replied Mrs. Brewster, in an absent-
minded manner.

"Well! If you'd let them come here I would love it!"

"You can't judge beforehand, Polly. Having three city strangers come
suddenly to live at a ranch where city manners are unknown, will turn
things upside-down, you know."

"But you see, Maw, the teacher offers to help me with lessons so I can
pass for High School in the fall," Polly reminded her mother.

"I can do as much for you, dear, without the care of strangers,"
remonstrated Mrs. Brewster, who would not commit herself until she had
had time to weigh all things carefully.

"Then I s'pose you intend refusing this request!" pouted the
disappointed girl.

"I wish to think over the situation most wisely before we reply to the
letter. Now finish your dinner and do the dishes. I am going to take my
mending to the side porch."