There were warm colors, some comfortable
rockers, a lamp that shed a bright light, and an open fire which alone
would have dispelled the raw gloom of the day.
A large man in corduroys and top boots advanced to meet Carley. He had a
clean-shaven face that might have been hard and stern but for his smile,
and one look into his eyes revealed their resemblance to Flo's.
"I'm Tom Hutter, an' I'm shore glad to welcome you to Lolomi, Miss Carley,"
he said. His voice was deep and slow. There were ease and force in his
presence, and the grip he gave Carley's hand was that of a man who made no
distinction in hand-shaking. Carley, quick in her perceptions, instantly
liked him and sensed in him a strong personality. She greeted him in turn
and expressed her thanks for his goodness to Glenn. Naturally Carley
expected him to say something about her fiance, but he did not.
"Well, Miss Carley, if you don't mind, I'll say you're prettier than your
picture," said Hutter. "An' that is shore sayin' a lot. All the sheep
herders in the country have taken a peep at your picture. Without
permission, you understand."
"I'm greatly flattered," laughed Carley.
"We're glad you've come," replied Hutter, simply.
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