"You see," continued Mrs. Brewster, turning to Anne, "one so gets to
dread the free speech and narrow-minded opinions of some ranchers that
one forbears in _everything_, rather than have strife and ill-will
from those one must meet at times."
Anne nodded. "But sometimes it is better to take the risk of offending
the whole community if one finally wins out."
Mrs. Brewster looked approvingly at the girl, and Polly changed the
conversation by saying:
"Mother, Anne and I have a plan that will surprise you."
Mrs. Brewster smiled encouragingly for the girls to speak.
"It's just this: we think it will be lovely to move the table out under
the trees. There the air and view can be enjoyed and afford us ample
subjects for conversation," explained Anne.
"Anne, splendid! After my experience of last night I would hail any
change. But this is really good. I never thought of it myself," replied
Mrs. Brewster, with relief.
On their walk to the kitchen, they planned to remove the table and
chairs; then Mrs. Brewster added: "My husband breakfasted an hour ago
but said he would be back when we sat down for coffee. He enjoys a
second cup at his leisure. And I'm quite sure Sary gave Jeb his
breakfast after I left the kitchen, so that gives us a clear start for
the first meal to-day."
Sary was found upon her knees before the kitchen range, polishing the
nickel name-plate on the oven door. A dish-pan of hot water and a
scrubbing brush stood upon the floor beside her.
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