The Nome daily nugget., 1934-12-24

The question was as unique as the woman; but in that moment her somewhat mannish countenance was lighted by contagious smile. Jack actually grinned, while Nance responded quickly: Tt looks as if you hadl Did Cousin Columbine send you to meet us7"
 IA quick nod answered her.
 q dare say you're hungry as two bears, and so am I. Come in and eat. These eastern trains always arrive at meal times"
 Still talking, she led them toward the station restaurant and motioned to seats at the counter.
 ''No use in paying dollar for dinDer when you can get hot roast beef sandwich for fifty cents. Do you like roast beeff Tn my opinion there's nothing better. Do you want coffee? They say it's bad for peo- pie but I've drunk 1t every day for more than fifty years and am still able to get about.
 Struck dumb by this breezy indi- vidual, Jack stifled smile and gave his sister a disconcerting nudge. Their escort had hung her cape on a nearby hook. and was notice able figure in her broad felt hat and scarlet middy. People looked at her, mildly amused; but there was nobility in her weather-beaten countenance, and her smile was winning.
 Lunch was quickly served, and there being no privacy at the coun- ter, was consumed in silence save for a few questions regarding their journey. As the train pulled away from the station. both boy and girl turned to watch 1t, feeling a subtle, regretful twinge, as If some good friend were deserting them; and as Nance resumed her meal their com panion asked: "Sorry to see the train depart without you?"
 ''I suppose I am." replied the girl, and added at this unexpected ins sight of her mood: You see, 1t makes me feel as if the last bridge behind us was burning. Every things so different from Massachu. setts; and not knowing Cousin Columblne at all I'm silly enough to be little nervous"
 The woman smiled one of her nice smiles.
 You needn't be. I, don't think you'll find Columbine Nelson hard to live with"
 Have you known her longr' asked Jack, hoping to secure a bit of light on the character of this unseen relative.
 "All my life. She was born in Pine Ridge seventy-odd years ago in covered wagon."
 T know" said Nance. "It's one of our family stories. that, and how she happened to be named"
 ''Is it indeedw The woman tipped their waitress and glanced up quickly. "oh, there you are, Mark !"
 The lunch room was almost empty now, and as she slipped from the high stool Nance saw a young fel- low in sombrero, which he re- moved as he caught sight of their companion.
 Jack stole an amused glance at Nancy--a glance she had no trouble in Interpreting. It said as plainly as If he'd spoken: "Enter the for bidden boy frlendl Take care, Sis r It was Jacks glance. not the sud den arrival of this unexpected youth which made her color rise. and, suddenly, the girl was furious with her brother.
 "This Is Mark Adam, who is to drive us up," explained the lady. Mark, these young folks are Nancy and Jack Nelson. Where are your trunks, Jack7 I presume you've both brought luggage, And where's Matthew, Mark T'
 The young man smiled, showing strong. white teeth and crinkle of humor around the eyes.
 "Glad to know you" He stretched out welcoming hand. Mats out side on the truck-too bashful to come in and meet the-er lady. That's 1t" (as Jack produced the checks). "You'll find the car parked back of the station. I'll be there as soon as I help Matt with the baggage"
 Marks good boy" observed their new acquaintance as the driver strode away. He and his brother came down to the creamery today (they run dairy ranch). so I roped them in to drive us and get your trunks. There isn't a better driver in Pine Ridge than Mark Adams, ua,,tvA non kA RaOI