While he kept Hallie in a constant gale of laughter by his witty
remarks, Barrows did nothing but scowl at him, when he was not casting
sinister glances at Ted, who, however, never looked at him.
After dinner the girls rushed away to get ready for the trip, and the
boys went out on the veranda to wait for them, while the colonel and
Barrows went into the library, ostensibly to talk over business of the
post, as Barrows was officer of the day.
But presently Ted heard the voices of the two men rising above the
normal pitch.
"I seriously object to Hallie going with such people."
The voice was Barrows', and it was angry.
"But they are all right," said the colonel. "I know Strong well by
reputation, and the Grahams are old friends of mine. Knew them for years
when I was in New Mexico. Hallie and Stella went to school together.
There can be no objection on that score."
"But this cad Strong is nothing but a common cow-puncher, and his
companions are even worse."
"They're worth more than you are financially," said the colonel. "That
is, they have made more individually than you have made. I'm not saying
what your father gives, or will give you. And that counts for
something."
"Well, there is no use saying anything more about it if you are willing
to give your consent to Hallie traveling in the company of, and camping
with, such a low blackguard as that fellow Strong.
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