SOLVED. Children's Book Mid-80's involved 2 daughters of a rich man, set in the late 1800's or early 1900's in Pomona, California. [s]

[Christopher]

I'm trying to remember the title of a book I read in the mid-80's and I believe it was probably written about that time. It involved 2 daughters of a rich man, set in the late 1800's or early 1900's in Pomona, California. The young ladies led a life of leisure. It had black-line illustrations and included a character who was sort of a bird-man. I think some of the names of the characters were Spanish names and there may have been a character who was a duke or baron or something.

[Michele]

Was this a YA book or aimed at adults? How old were the girls? Can you explain more about what's meant by "bird-man"? Would you call this romance, fantasy, suspense?

[Christopher]

It may have been aimed more at adults. By bird-man, I mean he just was a little man that seemed to be part bird, with wings. He dressed in clothing and interacted with the other characters. The girls were young adults and were looking at suitors. I think they each married in the end. They played tennis and lived in a mansion. The book's cover was purplish.

[Ayshe]

There's a Hand in the Sky - Oscar De Mejo?
The acclaimed artist tells the story of Gwyneth and Elizabeth, who, having lost their fortune, are saved from selling their ancestral home by two children who help them discover a hidden family treasure. (Year Book Covering the Year.., Crowell-Collier Educational Corporation, 1983)

and I think I discern a bird-man on the cover.

[Christopher]

Yes! That's it! Thanks so much!