Judith, who was looking tired, but singularly self-satisfied, answered
demurely, "I was out on business, Dad. And I'm going to get pay for it,
too. A horse that will really buck."

John's face was flushing when Douglas spoke. "Aw, let her keep her
secret, Dad! I don't think she's done a thing but rope a stray pony."

Judith protested quickly. "Nothing of the kind! If you three just knew
what I have done, you'd respect me. Anyway, Doug, I know where you were.
Over on Fire Mesa with Charleton Falkner."

"Who told you that?" grinned Douglas.

"Somebody that knew. Dad, why don't you get after Doug like you do after
me? What was he doing over on Fire Mesa, all night?"

"That's right, Doug! What were you doing on Fire Mesa?" asked John, all a
broad smile now that infuriated Judith.

She jumped up from the table, took down her milking pail and went out.
Nor did she give Douglas opportunity to talk to her during the rest of
the day. Not until twilight had settled in the valley did Douglas find
her alone. Then, searching for her, he discovered her behind the corral,
curled up against the new alfalfa stack, her eyes on the sunset glow
above Lost Chief Peak.

Douglas sat down beside her. "I didn't mean to tease you, this morning,
Jude. I was just trying to steer Dad off."