Jim and Ken had been engaged by Carew, to join his camp of surveyors in the mountains for this second season's work; and, as Polly and her friends were to spend the summer vacation at Pebbly Pit, it was quite natural that all six should journey westward, together.
Mr. Dalken and the Ashbys came to see the friends off, and as the parent Latimers and Evans were with their boys to the last, there was a large merry party to accompany the travelers to the Pullman.
"Don't be surprised to see me bring the Ashbys to Pebbly Pit in my touring car, some fine day, soon," announced Mr. Dalken.
"Oh, that would be lovely!" cried Polly, eagerly.
"And leave Ruth with us for the Summer?" added Eleanor.
"Yes, yes, Daddy--I'd love to spend my vacation with Polly and Eleanor at the ranch!" exclaimed Ruth Ashby.
"Where would you put us all--even if we did come?" asked Mrs. Ashby, who had heard of the limitations of the ranch-house.
"Oh, you forget! John writes that we will be surprised to find the marvelous work that has gone on at the Cliffs. Not only is the great road down through the Devil's Causeway completed for heavy traffic, but rows and rows of buildings back of the Imps are ready for occupancy, the moment the machinery is set up for work on the lava. If the miners have not yet taken possession of the barracks we could invite loads of people to visit the ranch."
Polly spoke eagerly, and her eyes shone as she beheld her friends enjoying the Brewster hospitality.
Everyone laughed at her anxiety to have them visit her, and Mr. Dalken promised: "I'll do my best to bring my friends, Polly."
A quizzical look in his eyes suddenly caused Polly to remember the valentine she had sent him. She smiled back at him, but as suddenly another thought flashed into her mind.
"Oh, Mr. Dalken, I've wanted to ask you for the _longest_ time! Now that it is ancient history, you won't mind confessing, will you?"
Mr. Dalken shook his head as a concession to her eager look. And Polly continued: "_Did_ you send me those American Beauties' valentine?"
A roar greeted this question, as everyone of the grown-ups had asked the same question of Mr. Dalken months before. And Mr. Dalken not only repudiated any knowledge of the valentine but told how he had visited the florist and had not been able to ascertain who the Cupid really was.