{"id":18924,"date":"2018-11-17T14:31:43","date_gmt":"2018-11-17T19:31:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=18924"},"modified":"2026-02-28T23:35:46","modified_gmt":"2026-03-01T04:35:46","slug":"kismet-by-krystyna","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=18924","title":{"rendered":"Home is the Sailor #6 – Kismet (by Krystyna)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Summary<\/strong>:\u00a0\u00a0Emancipation for Women and the Vote become a big issue when Peggy Dayton visits the Ponderosa. The result of her visit has long lasting repercussions in Virgina City and the Cartwright families.\u00a0 Sixth in the series Home is the Sailor\u2026..<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 T\u00a0 \u00a0WC:\u00a0 219,977<\/p>\n

Home is the Sailor Series<\/strong>:\u00a0 The saga continues after the conclusion of the Captain Cartwright series<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Home is the Sailor<\/a>
\n<\/a>The Iron Horsemen<\/a>
\n<\/a>There will Always be Rainbows<\/a>
\n<\/a>The Pledge<\/a>
\n<\/a>No Greater Love<\/a>
\n<\/a>Kismet<\/a>
\n<\/a>The Gap\u2026<\/a>
\n<\/a>A New Direction \u2013 Changes<\/a>
\n<\/a>Equinox<\/a>
\n<\/a>The Cattle Station<\/a>
\n<\/a>Love Thyself Least<\/a>
\n<\/a>No-body’s Hero<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Kismet<\/strong><\/p>\n

Chapter 1<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The year is 1879. Spring is on its way now and the snow has melted so at last revealing the green grass that is so restful to the eyes. Buds form on the trees and the birds are singing with the joy of knowing there was food in abundance again and there were busy times ahead with nesting and fledging. On the tops of the mountains the snow remains, looking like the shaggy white hair adorning many a stately old one\u2019s head.<\/p>\n

In a busy township called Warsop, not too many miles from Genoa, a woman removes a newspaper from a drawer in her desk. It was several months old now but she enjoys reading the journalists account of the trial of a certain Joseph Cartwright from the Ponderosa ranch. She smoothed out several pages to remove the creases in the paper and begins to read, although, of course, she knows each word by heart now.<\/p>\n

It was not just curiosity prompting her reading for she had actually sat in the court room, among others in Boulder\u2019s Creek, to listen to the proceedings herself. She had admired the lawyers, and the witnesses but particularly the Cartwrights. When Adam Cartwright had declared that he had actually discovered a woman, Lilian Goldbaum, dead from hanging in Blakesville, she, herself, had shuddered to the core of her very being.<\/p>\n

She read it through again, and then folded it away and slipped it into the drawer where she thought no one would see it. For a moment she sat there in reflection, her hands restless in the lap of her skirt, fingers entwining and intertwining. Eventually she rose to her feet and walked to the window to look over at the main street. She stood there deep in thought for some minutes, pondering over the strange fact that such evil, as had been touched upon in the trial, could actually have occurred, unthought of, unnoticed, by the majority of the townspeople.<\/p>\n

It amazed her to think that she in her very own town she could be walking among murderers, thieves and extortioners without being aware of them. Who was to know? How were they to ever find out? All those ordinary people, just like herself, mingling, mixing, as they made their way down streets, into one’s home. It had made her feel uncomfortable and unsettled for a while although her family seem happily unaware of any change. But then they had shown no interest in the trial, their lives were far too busy. But then they existed in a bubble of their own creation within which no one else mattered. That included her also, of course. She was the interloper\u2026.an unwanted one at that, they made that obvious enough.<\/p>\n

She looked at the people passing by, without really seeing them. Her mind was dwelling on the Cartwrights \u2026 and the woman who had travelled to be with her husband, Mary Ann Cartwright. She remembered how the woman had not wept a tear until the verdict had been given out..and the love that had suffused her features, such a pretty face, but how it had shown such love and joy as her husband had bounded down to her and wrapped her arms around her. She herself had known that kind of passionate love for only a very brief time and even then, they had been stolen pleasures. Now she had bitter sweet memories, she had lost the man she loved and the child she had borne belonged to another.<\/p>\n

Life was cruel. When she looked back over the years she felt that she had been handed a series of bitter blows, and that, just perhaps, now was the time to do something about it, something that would change the course of her life, something that would give it true meaning and purpose. Perhaps, one day, she could even dream of being happy once again.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In a ranch house nestled among the trees Marcy Dent watched her children as they played together in the corner of the room that Luke had designated theirs by creating a little fence that \u2018corralled them in\u2019 and kept them safe. Marcy smiled and shook her head as Philip crawled over to the barrier and pulled himself up onto his feet, only to land heavily on his bottom. His little sister, Anna, watched him and turned her head away as though in disdain at his futile attempt to get over the boundary that separated them from their mother.<\/p>\n

They were such fun to watch and Marcy loved to do just that\u2026to watch her children at play. Being twins they had one another as a constant companion and Marcy found herself standing, or sitting, watching them far longer than she should for it detracted her from her work and there had been numerous meals ruined as a result.<\/p>\n

They were already 8 months old. So hard to believe that the time had passed by so quickly. Of course it had been hard and tiring work, and during the winter it had been an ordeal to keep things clean and dry, and to keep them warm and protected from the cold and the wind and rain. But the house was weather proof, and snug, Luke had made sure of that, and that there was always a good supply of wood to keep the fire and stove alight.<\/p>\n

There was no doubting the fact that the children had flourished and if she had been a little clumsy at times, or a little forgetful at others, well, they didn\u2019t seem to mind, and Luke was happy and proud of her, and of them.<\/p>\n

She smoothed the sheet she was holding over her arm and draped it over the back of a chair. One of the cats jumped onto the little wooden fence and over balanced, so that with a meow that sounded more like a squawk it landed in Anna\u2019s lap. The little girl gave a yelp of surprise then grabbed for the little fluffy creature which wriggled out of her reach and escaped as quickly as it possibly could through the bars.<\/p>\n

It left Anna looking confused and forlorn, her bottom lip quivered and tears formed in her eyes and she began to bawl. Of course, Marcy was there immediately to pick her up, cradle her in her arms and kiss her plump little cheeks. Luke would have shaken his head and said \u201cAny excuse\u2026\u201d but what did it matter\u2026babies grew up too quickly but grew up all the better for kisses and cuddles.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

James Colby poured out coffee for himself and stood cradling the cup in his hands for a few moments. He was tired, drained emotionally, his nerves didn\u2019t know whether to let him cry or laugh or just collapse. He could have settled down into a chair and wept, many men had done so in the past and many men would do so in the future.<\/p>\n

Paul Martin came and stood beside him, his hand upon his shoulder \u201cWell, James\u2026how does it feel?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know. I can\u2019t believe it has actually happened.\u201d he set the coffee down upon its saucer and then looked at Paul and smiled ruefully \u201cI suppose most men would open a bottle of wine – champagne – to celebrate, but – you know\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Paul nodded and smiled, squeezed the shoulder upon which his hand had rested and then took the coffee that James offered him, \u201cI know, I understand\u2026believe me, James, there are many men hereabouts who could not afford a bottle of champagne to wet their newborns heads but, congratulations on having such a fine son. He\u2019s a good healthy strong boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad it was a short labour and delivery for Alyssia. She isn\u2019t very strong.\u201d James said quietly and thought back to the few hours where he had held her hand, rubbed her back, made soothing comments while Paul had got on with the job of delivering their infant, \u201cThank you, Paul.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paul nodded and smiled. He really was proud of this young man, who had arrived the previous year with so much misery weighing him down. He knew the battles the man had fought to beat his alcholism, although as James would say, no one ever does, but also to win back his wife. Poor miserable Alyssia, so convinced she was unloved, so unhappy and bitter, tainting every effort of friendship as a result. No wonder James had turned to drink\u2026Paul admonished himself, no, there was never any excuse to turn to drink to avoid problems, one only gained more of them.<\/p>\n

\u201cI should think Alyssia will sleep well now, for a few hours anyway. \u201c Paul said quietly and after finishing his drink he turned to leave the room, \u201cGet your head down too, a few hours sleep would do you good too, my boy. Bridie will be over later this evening to make sure Alyssia has everything she needs.\u201d<\/p>\n

James followed the older man out of the room and watched by the front door as Paul left for his own home. It was such a happy time in his life that he felt – totally unable to handle it but after closing the door, he tiptoed quietly up the stairs to their room, then sat beside his wife\u2019s bedside, and gazed alternatively at her sleeping features and those of his slumbering son.<\/p>\n

There were just no words that could describe how he felt at that moment in time.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

On the Ponderosa a new generation of Cartwright’s were busy in their own worlds. Reuben and Sofia were helping Adam whitewash the walls of the storehouse, although Livvy was doubtful as to where most of the paint was going when she had peeped in to see how they were getting on.<\/p>\n

\u201cEverything\u2019s fine,\u201d her husband assured her with a smile and merry wave of the paint brush.<\/p>\n

The sight of her children looking rather \u2019white washed\u2019 themselves forced her to say nothing but to grab at Nathaniel before he joined the fray, and quickly close the door behind her.<\/p>\n

Nathaniel protested as usual and as expected. If his siblings were having fun with daddy, then why couldn\u2019t he? He was now over two years old, and an intelligent little boy, but also a human magnet for chaos.<\/p>\n

At the main house Ben was reading through some letters that were overdue for replies. Hoss had work to do repairing the bars of a stall in the stable, as he put it ‘that thar dang woodworm has had a feast, must think that we provide wood just to keep \u2019em busy.’<\/p>\n

Hannah and Hope were helping Hester with some sewing\u2026well, Hannah was, and she was a neat little worker too, but Hope found it hard to sit still and to sew two edges of material together to look smooth and \u2019nice\u2019. She sighed a lot and moped a bit after all she was nearly three and she wanted to run around in the yard and go and help Pa. Little Erik was 18 months old and a contented child. He sat close to his mother\u2019s skirts playing with a wooden horse and cart \u2026in his world everything was perfect.<\/p>\n

Daniel Cartwright was four now, and he was following his Pa around the stables, a shadow who imitated every move Joe made. But Joe loved it, he loved his little boy trailing around with him and handing him tools, often the wrong ones, when he asked for them. Soon they would go in and have a meal together, and even as he thought it he heard Daniel\u2019s stomach rumble. Just like his Uncle Hoss, Joe thought to himself as he turned to Daniel and said \u201cHungry, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMy tummy is, \u201c Daniel replied looking earnestly at his father with big hazel eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cBest we get in for something to eat then\u201d Joe replied and scooped the boy up into his arms, and up onto his shoulders so that he could gallop his way from the stables to the house.<\/p>\n

Mary Ann had finally agreed to have help although she insisted she could cope, she was quite able to do everything that was required \u2026and of course she could, after all, she was a woman. But that hadn\u2019t stopped Hop Sing from introducing her to his No 5 nephew Wang Lee Sing. There really had been nothing Mary Ann could do about it. Lee Sing had arrived with his carpet bag and a valise full of herbs and spices and that was him settled. He had arrived not long after the trial and been there ever since.<\/p>\n

As Mary Ann had told her husband \u201cConstance dotes on him. How can I possibly send him away? It would break her little heart.\u201d<\/p>\n

But Constance, all of a year old, couldn\u2019t really have cared less, Lee Sing was just one of the many who adored her for she was beautiful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 2<\/p>\n

The man wielding the axe and splitting the logs of wood paused to watch as a one horse buggy could be seen making it\u2019s way along the track to the house. He set the axe down and wiped his hands on the back of his pants before pulling out a handkerchief to wipe his face. He then walked slowly across the yard in order to reach the house by the time the buggy and occupant finally arrived there.<\/p>\n

Another man stepped out onto the porch, older and greyer, his hands on his hips and his eyes wary as he watched the vehicle approach. He barely glanced at the younger man who upon reaching his side muttered the obvious, \u201cLooks like we have a visitor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHmmph\u201d was the reply as he made his way from the porch to stand in the yard ready for the buggy to come to a halt.<\/p>\n

A woman stopped the horse and the buggy rocked back and forth for a second or two. She sat there very calmly looking from one to the other of them before addressing the older one by name \u201cMr. Greigson?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWho wants to know?\u201d came the immediate response and the man so addressed stepped up closer \u201cWho might you be?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you Mr. Walter Greigson?\u201d<\/p>\n

Her voice was clear and pleasantly modulated, her face calm and her brown eyes direct. She was young, although some would have considered being in her mid-twenties old enough to be married with a brood of children around her skirts. Both men walked closer up to her, closing ranks in a manner of speaking, but she seemed unbothered by such an action and merely took the time to loop the reins out of the way.<\/p>\n

\u201cI am Walter Greigson and this is my son, Abel.\u201d Walter jerked a thumb at the other man who nodded and smiled in an attempt to appear friendly. \u201cBut we still don\u2019t know who you are?\u201d<\/p>\n

She nodded and smiled \u201cI\u2019m Margaret Dayton. \u201c<\/p>\n

The two men looked at one another, Walter shrugged and Abel grimaced while he passed a hand over the back of his neck.<\/p>\n

\u201cMargaret Dayton? Doesn\u2019t mean anything to us. Should it?\u201d Walter now demanded while his brow furrowed into so many criss crosses right up into his hairline<\/p>\n

She sighed and although the expression on her face didn\u2019t change Abel got the idea that she was slightly disappointed at their reaction. He watched as she gazed around the area, her eyes lingering on the barns, stables and then on the house itself. For some reason he was glad that they had kept the place in good condition, the house had been painted only that previous summer and still looked good despite the winter storms.<\/p>\n

She turned her head now and looked back to a clump of trees that stood opposite the house. For a moment a slight smile touched her lips and then she looked again at them \u201cThere used to be a swing there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBefore our time.\u201d Walter said brusquely \u201cYou know the place?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was my home – my father was Frank Dayton. He owned the land and built the house\u2026.I was born here.\u201d she smiled again, and gave a funny little shrug of the shoulders \u201cI asked in town about who owned it now and was told you had purchased it some six years ago?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right,\u201d Walter said and ran his fingers through his hair, \u201cSo? What is this? Just a stroll down memory lane?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose so.\u201d she replied and looked at Abel, before turning again to the spokesman, Walter. \u201cI just wanted to see how it looked after all this time\u201d<\/p>\n

Walter stepped up to the buggy \u201cWell, we ain\u2019t got no woman here to cook stuff to offer you, but you\u2019re welcome to come in and have a coffee should you so wish?\u201d<\/p>\n

She looked pleased at that idea and a little flush of pink travelled up her neck and blushed her cheeks \u201cThank you, I would like that very much\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

It was Abel who extended his hand to help her down from the buggy although she was well able to get down herself and would have told him so had she not been so pleased at the thought of visiting her old home. She had treasured the memories of the house so often in her mind. She could still see the bookcase in the corner, the furniture arranged just so\u2026the old clock of course and the stairs that led from the sitting room to their bedrooms.<\/p>\n

Walter walked ahead of them and then pushed the door open, and with a smile she stepped inside and then she stopped when just a few paces into the room. She looked about her, and felt disappointment well up inside her and memories tumble down around her ears. She took another step or two into the room, shook her head and told herself she had been silly, very silly to have thought everything would be just the same as when she saw it last. Hadn\u2019t she been telling herself all the way from town that nothing would be the same? Hadn\u2019t she reminded herself how things would be different, it would be different? That was how things were, the natural order of things, things change over time, even houses. Yet despite all that, she had stepped through the door expecting everything to be just the same\u2026how foolish could she have been?<\/p>\n

\u201cYou must have been quite young when you were here, Miss – er – Dayton\u201d Abel said and indicated a chair for her to sit upon.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was \u2026yes.\u201d she nodded and sat down, her eyes travelling here and there, noticing things, remembering other things. \u201cit has changed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, things do over the years\u201d he said and sat down, mindless of wood shavings and splinters that adhered to his clothes and dropped onto the chair covering.<\/p>\n

\u201cI kept telling myself it would be different, so I shouldn\u2019t be surprised, but now I can\u2019t understand why I am.\u201d she smiled at him, feeling and looking embarrassed at having her feelings so evidently on display to this stranger.<\/p>\n

He leaned back, relaxed, at ease and glad to have had such a pleasant distraction to work. It didn\u2019t happen often. He wondered if she had been happy here, a child born to the man who had built the house and owned the land which was his inheritance now.<\/p>\n

He watched as she looked at the room, the furniture, trying not to look too obviously curious, a small smile playing at her lips.<\/p>\n

If he had asked her if she had been happy she would not have known how to reply., after all there were good and bad memories, and there was the time when love had entered and for a brief while everything had been wonderful.<\/p>\n

Walter came bearing a tray with the coffee and cups that rattled as he walked. He set it down on the table and smiled over at her \u201cWe don\u2019t get many visitors here. Not since my wife died, and my daughter married and moved away.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you employ many men to handle the cattle?\u201d she asked as she accepted a cup of what looked like very dark coffee.<\/p>\n

\u201cEnough to get by.\u201d Walter replied, \u201cWe have a good herd and most got through the winter well enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll have to go into town sometime soon and hire more men.\u201d Abel muttered more as a reminder to his father and himself than for any other reason.<\/p>\n

She sipped the coffee, it was as she had expected, strong and bitter. She swallowed and gave an inward shudder before setting the cup back down on the saucer.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother sold the property to a Mr. and Mrs. Hertz, they had several children if I recall rightly.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe bought it from them in \u201869. Run it down badly they did, had no idea of business nor how to run a cattle ranch.\u201d Walter muttered and gulped down his coffee so fast she wondered how he didn\u2019t burn himself \u201cWell, I\u2019ll leave you to young Abel, he\u2019ll show you around, that is, if you want to stop and see the place?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI would like that\u2026thank you.\u201d she didn\u2019t reach out for the cup but stood up, and looked at Abel, \u201cBut only if it is convenient, I have to visit relatives around here so don\u2019t really have very much time. I just wanted to steal memories while I had the chance.\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded and rose to his feet, gulped down more coffee and then followed her out of the house. They paused at the door and she looked around her, frowned slightly and sighed \u201cI do have good memories, you know. My father died \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d Abel nodded, understanding flickered in his eyes, \u201cFrank Dayton. I recall seeing the head stone. 1861 he died, and my Ma\u2019s buried only a few paces away from him. I recall someone saying then how it was a real co-incidence that they were buried so close seeing how they had both lived here \u2026they said he had died when his horse toppled on him, he was jumping a fence wasn\u2019t he?\u201d<\/p>\n

She nodded and her gaze went immediately into the direction of where that fateful fence had been, then returned to the trees where she had sat on that swing , counting, counting.. \u2018When I reach a hundred Daddy will come home, he always comes home.\u201d<\/p>\n

She wondered what else people had said about Frank Dayton, about his drinking, his womanising. She looked at him and smiled \u201cPerhaps it is time I should leave\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, if I said anything that may have offended you, I may be should not have said anything about your Pa-\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not at all. Thank you for your time, but I shouldn\u2019t take you from your work.\u201d she held out her hand, gloved in soft kid leather, and he shook it politely \u201cPerhaps I shall see you again while I am here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like that, Miss Dayton.\u201d<\/p>\n

He assisted her back onto the buggy and nodded at her, smiled and raised his hand in farewell. He watched as she turned the vehicle in the yard and then drove away, not once turning her head nor acknowledging his wave. But he stood there a long time, his hands on his hips, watching until she was out of sight and the dust fell back upon the roadway.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

Little Peggy Dayton \u2026 after so long away from Nevada was now back home, although for how long, she was not sure. She had been sure enough of a welcome on the Ponderosa so had not booked into a hotel but had her luggage loaded onto the buggy\u2019s trunk with the promise of returning the vehicle and horse the following day.<\/p>\n

The town had not changed much to her way of thinking because when they had left Virginia City it had not grown to its full capacity, and not that it was slowly dwindling it had returned more or less to the size she remembered it to be. Even during that brief few weeks when she had visited before going to Finishing School in Switzerland she had not seen any changes but then life had been so complicated what with Adam being at sea, Joe being in a wheelchair and possibly paralysed and that emotional see-saw between Barbara Scott and Andrew Pearson and – in absentia – Adam.<\/p>\n

She hadn\u2019t bothered writing to find out how everything had worked out, or if in deed, anything had worked out. Letters were so long in delivery, and also, at the time, had been incredibly boring to write. She had so much to do when she had gone to that school, and, of course, there was always mother keeping her up to date with news.<\/p>\n

Peggy had chosen not to be known as Cartwright. Of course Laura had been more offended than Will had been and had defended her, laughing at his wife, and saying that Peggy was doing what was right by Frank, by claiming her own birthright in retaining her own name. But Laura had seen it as something more personal than that, because with Laura, everything was personal.<\/p>\n

Peggy had done well at school and then later at college. She had majored in a mainly male dominated field\u2026archaeology. Will had been immensely proud of her on achieving her qualifications but Laura had shaken her head and declared it was not the career for a young woman. Peggy there and then decided to prove her mother wrong.<\/p>\n

Quite recently she had been asked by a dear friend of hers to return to Nevada.<\/p>\n

Professor Maurice Stevens had met Peggy in college and they had formed an attachment that could have led to something more permanent if either of them had allowed their feelings for the other to develop beyond the interest they had for their profession. His involvement with the long dead Conquistadors of Virginia City had led to further discoveries that he had shared with her and wanted her to now disclose to those who had found those sleeping giants.<\/p>\n

She had revelled in the fact that these brave men had been sleeping their eternal sleep for so long under the baleful eye of Sun Mountain. And she had further enjoyed reading that a Cartwright had been involved in discovering them. Why Maurice had asked her to be the one to look further into the matter she did not know, but, well, here she was, and eager now to pick up threads of her relationship with the Cartwrights of the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

It did cross her mind that, just perhaps, she would be as disappointed there as she had been when going \u2018home\u2019. what if she didn\u2019t like Adam\u2019s wife? That would be a bit negative, after all, Adam had meant the sun, moon and stars to her at one time. And Joe, would he still be suffering from that near fatal injury\u2026she imagined him dragging himself around with crutches and a limp, and of course, a doting wife who would fetch and carry for him, something she herself would refuse to do for any man. As for Hoss, she hoped he was happy\u2026would he have married by now? Her mother had never mentioned anything about Hoss and she thought over and over to make sure she had her facts right there\u2026but no, on the subject of Hoss Cartwright, Laura had been very quiet.<\/p>\n

So now here she was, jogging along the track that pointed to the Ponderosa\u2026she tried to imagine the looks on their faces, the surprise, the pleasure\u2026she smiled to herself, they would be pleased to see her, she just knew that they would ..especially Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 3<\/p>\n

Cheng Ho Lee had prepared the meal and Olivia had gathered up her sewing into the basket and put down the lid securely to prevent little hands exploring among the needles, silks and scissors. She called out to her husband and children and smiled at the sounds of them downing tools to gather for the meal. Chatter and laughter \u2026she felt contentment steal over her, it always seemed that there was more light heartedness in the house when Adam was home. It rather amused her that thought, considering what a serious minded man her husband happened to be.<\/p>\n

Released from his mother\u2019s vigilant eyes Nathaniel scurried to the doorway and as Adam, Reuben and Sofia entered the room in a somewhat noisy huddle he saw his chance to slip past them and hurry off to the storehouse to explore. There were some places he had never been allowed to go, and in his child\u2019s mind, he had no clear understanding as to why he was not permitted them. The dangers to him, the mess he could create, all such perceptions were well beyond his comprehension.<\/p>\n

He had to take the steps down very carefully to the storehouse. It was under the main house and the steps were steep so he had to cling to the wall as he made his way. At the bottom he stopped to look around him, big eyes staring at the mass of things gathered neatly in a pile and under a sheet in the centre of the room. Shelves had been removed from alongside the walls and washed clean and like the bottles, jars and jugs that were piled in the centre and would be replaced upon them they had been grouped together, out of way of the walls, the whitewash and those who were employed in the task of refreshing the whitewash.<\/p>\n

And there, in all its splendour, were the buckets of whitewash, the paint brushes\u2026he blinked, and approached the treasure trove with resolve.<\/p>\n

On the whole there had not been too much mess caused by the amateur attempts of a little girl and boy who had helped their Pa in this particular task. Perhaps some puddles of paint where Sofia had dropped her brush at times, or had slopped some rather carelessly before realising not to load the brush so much. Nathaniel explored those puddles with some curiosity, he jumped into them and then stamped his foot on the floor and relished the sight of a foot print, so he jumped in some more and ran in circles around the spaces between the walls and the piled items.<\/p>\n

It was great fun to look behind him and see the foot prints chasing about there. He giggled, and decided that there just wasn’t enough paint left now in the puddles. There needed to be more. He picked up a brush and as it was quite cumbersome and heavy promptly dropped it, not before it had splattered a streak of paint down his dungaree\u2019s,<\/p>\n

\u201cOh dear dear\u2026\u201d he said to himself and cast the paint brush down and attempted to wipe the paint away, finding now that the paint remained on his clothing but also transferred it self to his hands. He looked at them and decided some hand prints may look impressive on the walls.<\/p>\n

He ran up to the walls and slapped both hands down upon the wet walls. Instead of the paint on his hands going onto the walls he now found he had more paint on himself than ever and decided to wipe them down his pants. Then his nose itched and he wiped a hand across his face leaving a smear of paint there as well.<\/p>\n

He could hear his mother calling him, and turned quickly to find a place where he could hide. As he did so he tripped against one of the buckets of whitewash, it sloshed up and over his feet, his dungarees and dismayed at just how much there was he stepped back quickly to avoid more of what was trickling like a stream over the floor, only to slip over and land on his bottom knocking over another bucket of whitewash as he did so.<\/p>\n

The whitewash streamed around him as he now sat in its midst, wherever he looked there was whitewash\u2026 and that included himself. He looked at his hands, covered! His feet, pure white. He wiggled his toes, that made him giggle.<\/p>\n

\u201cNathaniel.\u201d Olivia\u2019s voice floated down from the top stair \u201cAre you down there?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMe not.\u201d he said with a chuckle in his voice \u201cNath\u2019flannel not here. \u201c<\/p>\n

He could hear her coming down the stairs now and tried to stand up, but the floor was slippery so that his feet slid from under him and down he went again. His head hit another bucket upon which a paint brush had been balanced very carefully, but this now seemed to spring to life, turned a cartwheel and landed on Nathaniel\u2019s head which quite scared the little chap who gave a roar of misery \u201cOh Oh \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Olivia stood on the bottom step and didn\u2019t know whether to laugh or cry She clasped her hands together as though in prayer and raised her eyes ceiling wards<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam!\u201d<\/p>\n

Nathaniel began to bawl. He knew he was headed for trouble now and as his mother\u2019s voice increased in volume \u201cAdam\u201d, so did his wails.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

The young woman in the buggy was heedless of events happening in the first house she passed although she gave it a quick glance before continuing along to the main house. That was the Ponderosa she knew and associated with Ben, Adam and the boys. As she drove along her thoughts lingered on memories of those by gone days when, as a little girl of 8, she had first seen Adam Cartwright. How she had hated him. No, she corrected herself, she didn\u2019t know what hate was, only that emptiness and resentment of a man who had come along and tried to fill that gap her father had left her. Such intense feelings\u2026but then children felt with such intensity, she thought, and she remembered looking at him and the way she had spoken to him that first time \u201cGet out of that chair. That\u2019s my daddy\u2019s chair. Don\u2019t you ever sit in that chair again. Not ever.\u201d<\/p>\n

She could feel emotion welling up into her throat just remembering it. And then when he had brought that pony, just about the cutest thing one could ever see, and what had she said \u201cAre you trying to be my friend?\u201d<\/p>\n

Of course he was, and of course he had succeeded in being her very best friend. He had been the one who had helped her face the truth, and the one who had shown her that love never fails, not when offered sincerely, generously. She knew that was true, because she had loved him too, unreservedly.<\/p>\n

She set her memories to one side as the Ponderosa ranch house now loomed ahead of her. She turned the horse into the track that led here behind the stables, and then sweeping wide into the yard. She sat there for a moment to catch her breath, adjust her bonnet, and look around her. It was just the same\u2026. Almost\u2026there was something different about it, however, and she sat for a whole moment trying to work out what it was before she heard someone clear his throat, very loudly.<\/p>\n

\u201cAhem.\u201d<\/p>\n

She turned in the direction of the stables and saw Hoss standing there, a tin of polish in one hand and a quizzical look on his face. Just the same, dear old Hoss. He hadn\u2019t changed, oh perhaps he had, a little bigger, broader, but that grin was the same, the blue eyes twinkled as much as ever before.<\/p>\n

\u201cHoss!\u201d she dropped the reins in her hands and clasped them together, \u201cHoss Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYep,\u201d he grinned wider than ever and walked towards her, \u201cAnd what can I do fer you, little lady?\u201d<\/p>\n

The smile on her face widened, it was wonderful to see him, a bubble of excitement welled up inside her \u201cYou don\u2019t recognise me, do you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShould I?\u201d he frowned now, and paused in mid-stride \u201cShucks, Miss, \u2018fraid I don\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShall I give you a clue?\u201d she laughed and wanted to giggle, just like a little girl again.<\/p>\n

\u201cGuess you might have to.\u201d he replied and then turned his head as the door opened, and Ben Cartwright stepped out onto the porch. \u201cPa, we got a visitor, wants to play guessing games with us.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s stern face broke into a smile, bemused, curious. His dark brown eyes lingered over the girl, and the smile faltered a little in his attempt to recognise her, he nodded, still none the wiser as to who she could be, \u201cIt\u2019s always good to have visitors, Miss\u2026er\u2026 \u201c his eyes noticed the luggage and his eyebrows, dark as ever, were raised, \u201cI see you intend to stay?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you\u2019ll have me, Mr Cartwright.\u201d she said and clambered down, then straightened her skirts and walked the rest of the distance towards him, stopped just in front of him and then threw her arms around him \u201cOh, Mr Cartwright, you can\u2019t imagine how wonderful it is to see you after all this time.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben glanced anxiously over to his son, who stepped forward, craned his head towards her and narrowed his eyes before looking at his father \u201cPa?\u201d<\/p>\n

She spun round and then hurried over to hug him \u201cOh Hoss, Hoss. \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

It was then that Hester stepped out of the door t see what was keeping here men folk and she halted in mid-step at the sight of her husband being hugged by a very pretty, and young lady.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing couldn\u2019t be bothered to hang around, he came to the door and stared out at the yard as the young woman, who was indeed quite an attractive young thing, stepped away from Hoss, laughing as she did so. He nodded and then shook his head,<\/p>\n

\u201cMissy Peggy\u2026welcome back to Ponderosa\u2026you stay long this time?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy?\u201d Ben exclaimed, and looked questioningly over at his cook, who nodded, sloe black eyes twinkling in his olive skin, then he turned to the girl \u201cPeggy ?\u201d<\/p>\n

She nodded and laughed \u201cYes, it\u2019s me\u2026Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss threw his head back and laughed loudly, \u201cShucks, Peggy, I didn\u2019t recognise you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head and then swept her into his arms and hugged her tightly during which time Hester had crossed the yard and stood beside her husband, waiting for some explanation for such hilarity, although she kept a smile on her face and having seen Ben\u2019s demonstration of affection for the girl had realised there was no wrong intent towards Hoss.<\/p>\n

\u201cHester, honey, this is little Peggy Dayton Cartwright.\u201d Hoss explained with a sweep of the hand towards Peggy, who released Ben and turned to them, a smile on her face as she looked at Hester, \u201cPeggy, this is my wife, Hester.\u201d<\/p>\n

So he was married after all, she thought as she looked at the other woman, why hadn\u2019t mother told her? \u201cHello, Hester. I\u2019m Laura Dayton\u2019s daughter. \u201c<\/p>\n

\u201cCousin Will\u2019s step daughter.\u201d Hoss hastened to explain as Hester stepped towards Peggy and with a smile kissed her on the cheek.<\/p>\n

\u201cI just call my self Peggy Dayton nowadays.\u201d she said a trifle self consciously, \u201cUncle Will doesn\u2019t mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNor do we.\u201d Ben said with a wide generous smile on his face and his eyes twinkling at her, \u201cwhat\u2019s in a name, after all? \u201c<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, we kinda always think of you as Peggy Dayton anyhow.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing clapped his hands \u201cYou yak yak talk all day in yard? Dinner all dry up you say put here.\u201d<\/p>\n

They all laughed, Peggy slipped her arm through that of Ben\u2019s \u201cOh he hasn\u2019t changed at all, has he?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think we would want him to, after all this time,\u201d Ben replied with a laugh.<\/p>\n

Hester smiled, caught the younger womans eyes and nodded, Peggy sighed , a release of breath, relief and pleasure and joy. It was going to be alright, she liked Hester and from the smile she had received, Hester liked her too.<\/p>\n

As they walked towards the house, Hester was thinking \u201cSo this is Laura Dayton\u2019s daughter, all grown up, and very pretty too. Time doesn\u2019t stand still and children grow up \u2026 I wonder why she has come back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 4<\/p>\n

Hannah and Hope stopped running around the room in their game of tag, while Erik sat carefully turning his toy horse over and over between his fingers. They turned their eyes in the direction of the door expecting to see their Pa and Ma and Granpa, smiles ready on their faces. But their eyes widened in curiosity when Peggy came in, her arm linked through that of Ben\u2019s.<\/p>\n

Peggy stood still to observe them and smiled, then left Ben to approach the girls, and shake their hands telling them that she was an old friend of their Pa\u2019s and Granpa. She tweaked Erik\u2019s cheek gently and turned to Hester \u201cI cant believe it, he is just like my brother Benjamin.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hester felt a surge of delight which caused her heart to flutter and she smiled before she turned to look at Hoss who was nodding as though there could be no doubt about that, Cartwright cousins should look like ..Cartwright cousins.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s so good to be here again,\u201d Peggy stepped back and did a little twirl as though that was the best way to see the whole room and everything and everyone in it \u201cBut it\u2019s different..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe had a fire.\u201d Ben said, \u201cHad to do some rebuilding.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and Adam designed a proper kind of tub room so we don\u2019t have to use the out house no more.\u201d Hoss grinned and stooped to pick up Hannah who was rather curious but doubtful of this other person.<\/p>\n

Hop Sing was busy setting another place at the table, they could hear the clutter of cutlery, the chink of glass and chinaware.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd your old red leather chair \u2026and the blue chair \u2026\u201d Peggy sighed and shook her head, \u201cIn my memories they were pretty permanent features.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hester frowned slightly not sure whether or not she was being criticised for her choice of furniture, but she picked up Erik to hide her confusion, Hope clutched at her skirt, a thumb in her mouth and big eyes staring up at the stranger.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think it looks perfectly perfect now,\u201d Peggy continued with a smile that appeared genuine enough, \u201cJust how I would have liked it. I will have to throw out my old memories now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Her laugh was light and pleasant, she removed her bonnet and placed it on the bureau, along with her outer coat. Hop Sing came and announced the food was ready for eating and Ben took her elbow to escort her to the table. Erik had a little tantrum, he didn\u2019t want to sit in his chair, he wanted to sit on mother\u2019s lap and eat from there. Hope and Hannah had settled into their places and were now chattering among themselves, casting covert glances over at Peggy and every so often catching her looking at them, stealing smiles each time.<\/p>\n

Halfway through the meal Peggy declared that Hop Sings\u2019 cooking had not changed at all, it was as perfectly delicious as she always remembered it to be at which compliment Hop Sing bowed and told her she was like a rose blooming in a far off place, and now they were happy that she once again graced their table.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s odd, I thought Adam would always be at sea. I was quite surprised when Maurice told me that he was back home.\u201d Peggy pushed away the empty plate of her dessert, and picked up her wine glass.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaurice?\u201d Ben queried.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Maurice Stevens. He was here recently.\u201d she sipped some wine<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know Maurice Stevens?\u201d Hester asked now, \u201cGoodness me, what a small world.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaurice and I are old friends.\u201d Peggy said quickly \u201cBut we share the same enthusiasm for ancient things. I mastered in archaeology, much to mother\u2019s annoyance, but Will was very proud of me.\u201d she twirled the stem of the wine glass round and round between her fingers, \u201cI went to London for a few years and met him there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe was a very popular figure here .\u201d Hoss said, \u201cAnd pleasant enough. He was quite amazed at the discovery.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe all were\u2026\u201d Ben laughed and Hoss guffawed loudly and proceeded to tell Peggy all about the discovery and how Reuben and his friends had accidently come across it.<\/p>\n

\u201cTo think I lived here and never knew \u2026\u201d Peggy lamented and laughed along with them, \u201cBut it must have been such a wonderful sight. Can you imagine it? Those boys must have had the fright of their lives! I really quite envy them. I wish the Conquistadors had been discovered when I was here.,\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben sat back with his wine glass in one hand and toyed with a napkin with the other as he observed their visitor. She had changed so much. It wasn\u2019t just her appearance which of course would have altered from the young adolescent she was on her previous visit, but now, here she was, a mature young woman. Her face and bearing, even her colouring, was different and sometimes it was hard to find the little girl that she had been in the woman she had become. He wondered what had happened since she had left those years ago, when her mother had arranged for her to go to finishing school in Switzerland. He had got the impression during that visit that relations between Laura and Peggy had not cemented into the loving close bond either had wished for.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow is your mother? And Will?\u201d he asked as though following through on his thoughts and Peggy paused, sipped more wine and smiled over at him,<\/p>\n

\u201cThey are well. Mother had a daughter after Benjamin was born. Her life is full of the things she always wanted, you know, tea parties and social events. They have a grand house on the east coast now, and she is quite content. Both the boys are at college and doing well. John wants to become a lawyer, and I think Benjamin has an aptitude for the sciences. Clarissa, my half sister, is growing up and will, no doubt, give my mother much pleasure by behaving herself and doing just as she is told\u2026\u201d she flashed a smile at Hester \u201cI\u2019m afraid I seldom did, as Mr Cartwright and Hoss can testify.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss laughed then and regaled them all with the story of how Peggy had wanted to adopt a wolf cub and kicked up a fuss when Adam had explained that she could not\u2026<\/p>\n

Hannah thought that was interesting and ventured to say that she would like to have a wolf cub of her own too, which made Peggy laugh and say that was something her parents would probably have to discuss with her later.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Will, how is he?\u201d Ben persisted in wanting to know, he had always had a soft spot for Will, and in some ways had wished that he had stayed in the area, despite Laura\u2019s insistence that a better life could be found elsewhere.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh Will is really well. He is so clever, and his business has grown and grown. He\u2019s become very popular in the social circles back there too\u2026\u201d she smiled mischievously \u201cHe looks handsomer than ever, you know, and mother gets angry because she says she spends too much time at these events, as she calls them, batting off the women .\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben nodded and frowned slightly, although she hadn\u2019t said so much, it seemed to him that Will was not so happy in his marriage as they had hoped. He wanted to ask her if she thought her step-father in reality, was happy, but realised it was the wrong thing to say, the wrong time too.<\/p>\n

Peggy had become a grave, serious young woman, but she still had the sparkle of fun in her and it took little time for the girls to realise that this new friend enjoyed sitting on the floor playing with the doll house and pretending that the prettiest princess lived there and needed to be rescued from the ugly prince.<\/p>\n

When Hester took the children to bed it was Hannah who begged for Peggy to go and tell them a story, to which she promised she would as soon as their mother said they were ready. Erik was all rosy cheeked and nodding like a drowsy infant would as he was carried in his mother\u2019s arms up the stairs.<\/p>\n

Peggy sat down opposite Ben and watched him fill his pipe, then she jumped up and said \u201cOh let me\u2026\u201d and grabbed for a taper to light from the fire and put to the tobacco , \u201cRemember how I used to do that for you when I stayed here that time Adam was \u2026\u201d she paused and a soft sigh passed her lips \u201cwhen he was hurt.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI remember,\u201d Ben said with a smile and looked at her thoughtfully \u201cThat was a long time ago, Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know. Another life time\u2026\u201d she replied and returned to her seat, \u201cMother tells me some news, but it seems no one communicates much or very often so there isn\u2019t much she can tell me about you all. I thought that Adam would be living here with his wife and family, so was surprised – pleasantly so,\u201d she flashed a smile at Hoss, \u201cwhen I realised Hoss and Hester were here. Does Adam live so far away?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot at all, you would have passed his house to reach here.\u201d Ben replied and sent up a little smoke circle in to the air \u201cJoe lives about a mile further along the track. You can\u2019t see his house because of the hill.\u201d he sent up another smoke ring \u201cAdam designed both houses.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd does he still go to sea?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, nor ever will again I hope.\u201d Ben replied sternly,.<\/p>\n

\u201cI thought\u2026well, mother always thought that Adam would become an architect, she said he had the same drive and determination as Uncle Will to succeed in whatever he set his hand to.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hoss chuckled \u201cYeah, that sums up brother Adam all right.\u201d<\/p>\n

Peggy nodded, and looked at Hoss with a sweet tenderness on her face, then she smiled over at Ben \u201cMother wanted him to leave here, you know. She told me once that had she married him, she would have made sure he left the Ponderosa. She hated cattle ranching \u2026 perhaps because of Daddy, or just because\u2026 \u201c she shrugged, \u201cNot everyone likes cows.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ben watched her face fall into more solemn lines now and leaned forward \u201cDo you feel like calling on Adam and Olivia, or Joe and Mary Ann? They don’t live so far away, just say the word and we\u2019ll get you there.\u201d he smiled then, his face broke into the generous warm features she had treasured in her memory for so long and so she assured him that she was just fine, too tired to go visiting perhaps tomorrow she would go and make more social calls.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll no doubt see Joe and Adam in the morning -\u201d Hoss said as he stretched out his legs so that his feet could be nearer the fire \u201cThey usually get here just at breakfast time.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIn that case there won\u2019t be any need for them to have an announcement of my arrival,\u201d she laughed and looked towards the fire where the flames gently nibbled at the logs and threw a rosy glow out into the room.<\/p>\n

It was at this point that Hester came down and smiled \u201cThe girls are getting impatient for their new aunty to read them a story.\u201d<\/p>\n

Peggy got up immediately, a light laugh and away she hurried, fllitting up the stairs like a young girl again. Ben sighed and pursed his lips, in some ways, he wished that young girl were back again, he wasn\u2019t sure what to make of this more serious young lady that had taken her place. \u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

Nathaniel had thought that getting clunked on the head by a paint brush and covered by whitewash was quite punishment enough so he was completely taken aback, as only a very little boy could be, when his father had picked him up and held him at arms length while he was carried to the bath. Without a word Adam stripped the boy naked and then washed him clean, all the while Nathaniel was rubbing his head, crying that it was sore, it hurt, not good!<\/p>\n

Once wrapped in a clean warm towel Nathaniel was perched on Adams knee and after clearing his throat, Adam explained very gently that he had been a naughty boy, that he had made a lot of mess in a room they had worked hard on making nice and tidy for mommy, but now they had extra work as a result of such a naughty boy going in and touching things he should have left alone.<\/p>\n

Nathaniel blinked back tears. He didn\u2019t understand where he had been naughty, nor why he should have left things alone when they were just there, waiting for him to touch and play and enjoy. He bowed his head and sighed, rubbed his eyes and cried, leaned against Adam who held him away and said \u201cNo, not for naughty boys.\u201d<\/p>\n

That really hurt Nathaniel, he howled and Adam inwardly groaned and longed to hug his little boy and tell him he was loved. Instead he set him down and told him to go and say sorry to Mommy. Trailing the towel behind him Nathaniel left the room, paused at the door and glanced back at Daddy who turned his head away, so that the little scamp sobbed all the way to where Olivia was setting out the table for their meal.<\/p>\n

By the time he had reached the table the towel had come adrift somewhere on the way from the bath room, and the little naked body stood before her looking very woebegone. \u201cMommy, norty Nat\u2019enual come..\u201d he lifted up his arms to her, perhaps she would be more merciful than Poppa, \u201cSorry, mommy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Olivia stooped down to pick him up and hold him close. She hugged him and kissed him and told him she loved him. Sofia ran up with the towel in her hands and that was carefully wrapped around the little boy who clung to his mother so tightly that Olivia could hardly breathe.<\/p>\n

For a while Nathaniel kept his distance from his father, and Adam smiled and teased him until in the end the child was giggling and happy once more. Of course Adam knew, and Nathaniel would have realised had he been older, that were he to chance upon the same situation again, he would be just as tempted to go in and play, and dance about in the puddles of whitewash on the floor.<\/p>\n

But now the three children were in bed, sleeping soundly, and the two adults were free to enjoy their time in the evening together. The fire glowed warmly and the lamps were shedding a calming light over the room. Cheng Ho Lee had made his way to his own room an hour previously.<\/p>\n

Olivia glanced over at her husband as he sat opposite her reading a newspaper. His brow was knit and his face looked shut off, preoccupied with other thoughts than family. She put down her sewing and allowed her thoughts to trickle back to the past months, of a winter that had not been so very bad in that it had not brought about the worst rigours they endured so often during that season. Memories of the time when they had returned from Boulder\u2019s Creek slipped into her mind now and she shook her head, thinking herself unobserved, as she remembered how much relief they had all felt at the return of the men to their homes. But Mary Ann had been shaken by the trial, and by the perfidy of those involved, and had been a quieter person ever since.<\/p>\n

She was so lost in her thoughts that she was surprised when he came and sat by her side, put an arm around her shoulders while with his free hand he began to stroke her arm, gently and softly, while his face wore that soft tender look that she loved to see.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou looked far away, and worried.\u201d he said almost in a whisper. \u201cDid you think I was too hard on Nathaniel?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, of course not.\u201d she smiled at him and leaned her head against his chest.<\/p>\n

She could hear the beat of his heart, good and solid and regular. She felt his arm around her shoulders drawing her closer and felt his lips upon her brow. For a moment they sat in silence, enjoying the time together anticipating what would come later.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMmm?\u201d he sighed as though he wished she had not spoken although that was not so, he was happy just being there with her whether she spoke or not.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you happy?\u201d<\/p>\n

She could sense his smile, his lips parted and in doing so brushed aside the curls of her hair \u201cHappy? That\u2019s a strange thing to ask a man who\u2019s married to the most beautiful woman in the world.\u201d his voice held a laugh in them, and she wondered if he really meant the words or said them because he had said them so often before.<\/p>\n

She moved away from him then and looked at him, still in the embrace of his arm around her but just that little distance between them. \u201cI just wanted to know, to be sure.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can be sure \u2026\u201d he frowned then, a row of track lines across his brow that obscured the scars that he had gained over the years. \u201cWhy are you asking me, Olivia? Don\u2018t you know by now that you\u2019re my life, my whole reason for being\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

She wanted to relax then, sink back into his arms and hug him close, but the voice in her head was determined, and she heard herself say \u201cI worry that sometimes you aren\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen don\u2019t worry,\u201d he raised his eyebrows, his brown eyes darkened and his lips thinned, \u201cThere\u2019s nothing to worry about.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s just that -\u201d oh that voice, why wouldn\u2019t it keep quiet and go away, but relentlessly she looked into those brown eyes, resisted the temptation to kiss those lips, \u201cyou seem so restless lately.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRestless?\u201d he repeated the word as though never having heard it before, and then shook his head and removed his arm from around her.<\/p>\n

Her green eyes became paler, as they did when she was worried or disturbed about something, and knowing that they would betray her she turned her head away, only for him to hook a finger beneath her chin and turn her to face him, \u201cWhat exactly is going through your sweet pretty head, my dear?\u201d<\/p>\n

She sighed and shrugged \u201c I don\u2019t know \u2026 am I being silly?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCertainly.\u201d he nodded but his face looked stern, serious.<\/p>\n

She looked now at the flames in the fire, and tried to find the words she wanted to use, sometimes they just didn\u2019t seem to be there when she wanted them to be, and just at this moment in time she wanted to assure him of her love for him. She sighed,<\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, you know that don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

He smiled then, a slight whimsical smile and nodded, so she nestled back closer to him and reached for his hand \u201cI just want you to know, that if you were worried about anything at all, and I do mean, anything\u2026\u201d she moved her head to look up into his face before returning to look at the fire \u201cyou must tell me, otherwise I won\u2019t be able to help.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t have any worries, Livvy, none that I Haven\u2019t shared with you anyway. \u201c he raised his eyebrows as though puzzled.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut you are restless\u2026you got up this morning early and didn\u2019t come back to bed\u2026and it worries me when that happens.\u201d she frowned then, a little criss cross patch of faint lines across her brows, \u201cAre you having bad dreams? Are you \u2026alright?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI guess it\u2019s a hard habit to break, after all I used to get up at 2 a.m every morning when I first went to sea, those were the hours of my \u201ctrick\u201d and I somehow never got out of the habit of getting up at that time. It became my routine as an officer to walk about the ship at that time of morning and speak to the men on duty. I guess I\u2019ve not yet managed to break myself from the habit. Does it disturb you? Do I wake you up? I\u2019m sorry if I do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

She shook her head and allowed a small smile to flit across her face \u201cNo, and you don\u2019t do it very often, besides I\u2019ve been awake at odd hours myself with Nathaniel. It\u2019s not often I notice the bed is empty, just that when it is\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

He frowned and looked thoughtfully at her, unsure of what to say or do next. She was watching him with a thoughtful expression on her face, not the look of a woman who desired her man to love her, not just at that moment. He cleared his throat,<\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose I am restless at times, but isn\u2018t everyone?\u201d he said and she felt her heart miss a beat, and the voice in her head wanted to know why but before she spoke he stood up and walked to the bureau where he selected a bottle of wine and brought it over to the table with two glasses.<\/p>\n

She watched as he poured wine out and handed her a glass, before pouring some for himself. \u201cLivvy, have you noticed how much is going on in the world nowadays. I used to talk to Pa about progress, and he used to be irritated \u2026\u201d he paused and stared at the wine in the glass, then looked at her \u201cBut there is so much happening now, and so fast. Did you know that San Francisco is going to be the first city in America to have electricity? Imagine that? Light at a flick of a switch.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI remember hearing about it when I was at the Frobishers\u2026\u201d she murmured and recalled to mind that he had been at sea then – was it his trip to Cuba?<\/p>\n

He leaned back and stretched out an arm to encompass her in its embrace, only too gratefully she sunk back against his chest, her head on his shoulder, \u201cTimes have changed so much, when you think about it, there are trains going in all directions now, and it makes me recall those long days in the wagon with Pa, travelling through Indian Territory\u2026 and now one has to ask\u2026where are the Indians we were so terrified off back then? The Cheyenne, the Souix, the Pauite? Life is changing so fast that \u2026\u201d he drew in a deep breath and shook his head, \u201cI wonder sometimes what the future will be like when the children are grown. When they look back to their childhood will they think it primitive, dull, routine?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIs that how you think it is, Adam? Do you feel life is dull and routine?\u201d<\/p>\n

His eyebrows rose and for a moment she saw a glimpse of irritation beneath of the surface of the look he gave her, then he shrugged and asked her if that was how she felt about her life?<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I don\u2019t.\u201d and she looked at him almost challengingly, \u201cBut when you say things like that I wonder – if perhaps you wish you were back at sea?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d he said quickly, perhaps too quickly for then he frowned and shook his head,<\/p>\n

leaned in and took hold of her hand in his, locked his fingers over hers and squeezed them gently \u201cBut that isn\u2019t to say that there are times, when I do miss it. Surely that is only natural?It was a big part of my life for some years and I made good friends, bad enemies\u2026and sailed beautiful ships. Life at sea was a mix of dull routine and boredom, of excitement and sometimes sheer terror, but it was my life for quite some time. \u201c<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve never said that you missed it before\u2026\u201d her voice trailed off, wistful, a little forlorn.<\/p>\n

He sighed and gulped down some of the wine, he looked at the ceiling beams as though they would give him inspiration and help him dig himself out of the hole he had just shovelled himself into<\/p>\n

\u201cSweetheart, why should I mention it? It doesn\u2019t change anything. I wouldn\u2019t go back to sea anyway, not because I promised you I wouldn\u2019t but because -\u201d he shrugged \u201cno matter how much I may miss it, doesn\u2019t mean I want to go back to it. No, those times are past, but there are times when I\u2019ve been chasing a herd of cows around and smelling their – well – having to put up with their stench, the heat, the everything there is about cattle ranching I get to think of fresh salt sea breezes and the snap of a ships sails overhead.\u201d he laughed then, a light hearted laugh, \u201cI\u2019m grateful for the fact that I have those memories, it helps .\u201d<\/p>\n

For a moment they were silent then he said quietly \u201cIt\u2019s a good life, Livvy, really, but I am glad I escaped it for a while. More glad than I can say that I found you and can come home to you\u2026 \u201c<\/p>\n

She relaxed a little now, that obstinate voice slipped away and she smiled and leaned in towards him. \u201cI\u2019m sorry. I was just worried.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAs I said, there is nothing for you to worry over. \u201c he emptied his glass and set it down, and then looked at her with a smile that brought dimples to his cheeks, \u201cI love you, Olivia Cartwright, come to bed with me and let me show you how much.\u201d<\/p>\n

She set down her empty glass and smiled, then stretched out her hand which he took to help her to her feet. \u201cAnd do you love me?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMore than life.\u201d<\/p>\n

And as he swung her into his arms Adam Cartwright meant every word he said, each and every one.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 5<\/p>\n

In the guest room of the Ponderosa, Peggy Dayton had slept well and comfortably. She could remember sleeping in the very same room when she stayed at the ranch with her mother during those long days when Adam had been injured from falling during some building work.<\/p>\n

As a child she had never really understood exactly how that happened nor why. Laura had determinedly steered conversations away from the subject whenever Peggy had ventured near it. But now as she began to come out of her sleep and rubbed her eyes she allowed her mind to wander back to that time \u2026<\/p>\n

What a confused muddle of a time it was, it seemed that Laura was more intense and irritable than ever, and Peggy, knowing her mother so well in all her moods, knew that beneath the veneer of smiles and patient care of the invalid, Laura was finding it hard to handle. She remembered Hoss and Joe being fun, always trying to take her away from the environment, playing games and making up amusements for her. And there had been Will, riding in and – yes, she smiled – she had liked Will from the start, seeing no threat to her, he was open and honest. But then hadn\u2019t Adam been too, and hadn’t he just arrived in her life at the most crucial time of her life, when she had lost the very first man she had ever loved – her Daddy.<\/p>\n

She could hear sounds from downstairs and recognised them as familiar too, Hop Sing was already up and preparing for the morning meal, if the rooms were cold he would be lighting the fires and making sure everything was perfect for his family to start the day. All so familiar, it brought back such happy, muddled and confused memories.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

Sofia rubbed her face and scrunched up into a little ball in the middle of her bed. Clarabelle and Saggy Sue flopped on top of her but she didn\u2019t mind them, she just wanted to stay there and not have to go to school.<\/p>\n

Reuben pushed open the door and peeked inside \u201cC\u2019mon, lazy, or you\u2019ll be late.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGo \u2018way\u201d she mumbled.<\/p>\n

He humphhed and ran downstairs, she could hear the thud thud of his feet on the steps and pulled the sheet over her head. Saggy Sue fell off the end of the bed and Clarabelle landed all droopy over the side.<\/p>\n

More footsteps and she sighed and scrunched up her eyes as tightly as she wanted to scrunch up her body. The door opened and footsteps approached her bed. Strong arms pulled away the sheet and without a word scooped her up from the comfortable mattress and covers. \u201cNo, daddy, no\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Sofee, yes.\u201d Adam replied and there was a chuckle in his voice as he bore her away to the door. She reached out a hand to grab at the door frame but he moved too fast so she missed<\/p>\n

\u201cOh daddy, please let me stay home. Please.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

More footsteps padding their way towards them and she opened one eye and saw Nathaniel approaching. He stopped to watch them and then raised his arms but Adam ignored him and continued on down the stairs with his precious burden. Nathaniel hurried as fast as he could behind them.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone doesn\u2019t want to go to school today.\u201d Adam announced to his wife as he sat Sofia down on the chair.<\/p>\n

Olivia frowned and looked at her daughter \u201cWhy this time?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBecause -\u201d Sofia replied and hung her head so that her long hair flopped over her face.<\/p>\n

\u201cBecause of what?\u201d Olivia asked and came from behind her to pull the blonde hair away and tidy it behind the child\u2019s back. \u201cOr is it because of who?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWho who\u2026too whit too woo\u2026\u201d Reuben crowed and laughed until he got a stern look from Adam.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhit whit wooooo\u201d chanted Nathaniel and flapped his arms about for good measure.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s enough now.\u201d Adam said tapping Nathaniel on the nose, \u201cEat your breakfast.\u201d<\/p>\n

Sofia sniffed and looked down at the food on her plate, her stomach rumbled and so she picked up her spoon and began to eat. she looked over at Reuben, a dark glare that didn\u2019t get missed by her father who asked to know what the problem was now.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s annoyed because -\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, don\u2019t say it.\u201d Sofia protested and looked as though she were about to burst into tears. She put down her spoon and sniffed again, blinked fast and clamped her teeth together.<\/p>\n

\u201cI Haven\u2019t said anything – yet!\u201d her brother continued and shrugged \u201cShe\u2019s annoyed because\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cStop it. Stop it.\u201d Sofia bawled and began to weep, her head bowed and shoulders shaking.<\/p>\n

\u201cSofia, that\u2019s quite enough now. \u201c Olivia said sternly and looked over at Reuben who gave a very masculine shrug of the shoulders and lift of the eyebrows. She frowned at him, and thought he was beginning to get too much like his father..<\/p>\n

\u201cIts not fair \u201c Sofia said wiping her eyes dry and sniffing some more, \u201cThey wont let me in their gang. They said I was too little and a girl.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s true.\u201d Reuben protested, \u201cYou are too little, and you are a girl.\u201d he looked at his father \u201cShe is, isn\u2019t she, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

Adam sighed and nodded, \u201cSofia, you are younger than the boys, and sadly, you are a girl. You will have to form a girl\u2019s gang.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGirls are silly.\u201d Sofia replied and sighed as though the end of the world had just been announced.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoys can be equally as silly,\u201d Adam replied and frowned \u201cNow eat your food. Reuben, what is it you and your gang are planning that has upset your sister so much?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing, Pa.\u201d Reuben replied very quickly and remembering a certain incident that involved frogs and so forth, he cleared his throat \u201cShe\u2019s just annoyed because Tommy Conway and Jimmy Carstairs said they were going to fight a duel because they both -\u201d he rolled his eyes \u201c love her. Imagine that\u2026?\u201d and he stared at Sofia who bristled, went red in the face and glared at him so fiercely that Adam almost burst out laughing.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, she\u2019ll appreciate it more when she\u2019s older, \u201c Adam muttered and handed Nathaniel some bread.<\/p>\n

Olivia glanced at the clock \u201cLook at the time, and Sofia, you\u2019re not dressed or washed yet. Hurry up and get yourself ready.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease let me stay home.\u201d she pleaded, and looked from one parent to the other.<\/p>\n

\u201cUpstairs – now -\u201d Adam ordered \u201cAnd don\u2019t forget to collect your McGuffey, you left it on the table yesterday.\u201d<\/p>\n

Sofia was firmly extricated from her chair by her mother and hauled upstairs. She was a stubborn little thing and dragged her feet as much as she could to make it as hard as possible for her mother to get her back up to her room where, with many protests, Olivia took to \u2018sorting her out\u2019,<\/p>\n

Reuben shrugged \u201cI don\u2019t know what all the fuss is about,\u201d he said to anyone who wanted to listen. Nathaniel didn\u2019t he was engrossed in rolling bits of bread into balls and dropping them onto the floor. Adam was half listening remembering times when Joe had been equally reluctant to get to school. He sighed and looked at his son,<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you say?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c I said I didn\u2019t know what the fuss is about, Pa. She\u2019s just a girl after all!\u201d and with a shrug of the shoulders he set to finishing his meal.<\/p>\n

Adam smiled, and picked up his cup of coffee. No worries about the birds and bees talk yet awhile then. He felt sorry for the Carstairs and Conways though.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

Peggy was always bright and fresh when she got up in the mornings. She smiled at everyone and felt flattered when Hannah asked to come and sit with her at the breakfast table. Erik was rosy cheeked and banged on his dish with his spoon, he was boy after his father\u2019s own heart, enjoying his food and always hungry. Hoss grinned at their guest and asked if she had slept alright.<\/p>\n

\u201cI did. I have fond memories of that bed, it was always so comfortable. Hop Sing, I could smell bacon \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Hop Sing nodded and placed the food on the table for them to \u2018dig in\u2019 and enjoy. Coffee was poured into the adult\u2019s cups and milk for the little girls and Erik.<\/p>\n

\u201cWill Joe and Adam be here soon?\u201d Peggy asked as she placed the food upon her plate, \u201cDo they come here first thing to see what work they have to do ? Will you be going with them today, Hoss? Mr Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJoe should be here soon.\u201d Ben glanced over at the clock \u201cAdam any moment – he\u2019s usually the most punctual of the two.\u201d<\/p>\n

Peggy laughed \u201cThat doesn\u2019t surprise me one bit, he always was\u2026well, most times.\u201d<\/p>\n

She smiled to herself at the memory of him tossing his hat into the house to make sure he was still welcome because he had been late, she couldn\u2019t remember the occasion, just that mother had been really angry. She remembered sitting on Adam\u2019s lap while they \u2018chatted\u2019 and inside the house Laura seethed. It occurred to her then, even as a child, that Laura never hesitated to let Adam know when she was annoyed or irritated by anything he did or said, yet with Daddy she would never say a word., just cringe back and look – well, was it scared? She could remember hearing Frank Dayton saying to no one in particular, because she had been the only one in the room at the time, that \u2018your mother\u2019s scared of her own shadow.\u2019<\/p>\n

She hadn\u2019t understood what that meant then, but if it had been true of Laura during her marriage to Daddy, she had certainly left the shadows behind when she had fallen \u2018in love\u2019 with Adam. It was the first time Peggy had realised how different people had such strong but opposing reactions to others. At the age of 8 she had learned a lot!<\/p>\n

She was musing about such things when the door was opened and she heard footsteps, and she turned her head to watch as Adam stepped into the dining area of the room.<\/p>\n

She was surprised and not sure whether pleasantly so or not at this first sight of him. He was still tall, broad shouldered, not reed thin but not carrying any surplus weight. His hair was greyer at the sides but still dark, and his eyes were still that honey brown she could remember, but his features were blurred somehow and she realised that it was the same with Will, the firmness of youth was gone, and the craggier look of a middle aged man was now in place.<\/p>\n

He smiled and the smile was still the same and lit up his eyes, brought out the dimples. He was still – Adam.<\/p>\n

He greeted them all and then looked at her, narrowed those brown eyes of his and smiled again \u201cWell now, who have we here\u2026?\u201d and he laughed as he approached the table, Peggy stood up and looked at him, and as he wrapped his arms around her to give her a welcome hug he was still chuckling, then held her at arm\u2019s length \u201cWell, little Peggy. Where have those freckles gone?\u201d<\/p>\n

She remembered those hugs from long ago, different to the one he gave her now, they were different people, after all and as they all knew she was no longer little Peggy with freckles and wobbly teeth and a squeaky voice.<\/p>\n

He smiled at her and watched as she sat down to resume her meal. Ben had poured him a cup of coffee which he accepted and balanced in his hands \u201cYou\u2019ve grown up, Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s Aunty Peggy\u201d Hannah said in her squeaky voice \u201cAnd she told us stories and she said she was a little girl like us and lived here too\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo she did too,\u201d Hoss guffawed, with his mouth full of food which earned him a disapproving look from both his father and wife!<\/p>\n

Hester turned from her husband to smile over at her brother in law and asked how everyone was at home, to which enquiry he nodded, smiled \u201cHad a problem getting Sofia to school, apparently two boys in Reuben\u2019s gang are going to fight a duel over her today.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019ll change her mind about that in a few years,\u201d Ben chuckled, \u201cPeggy, would you like more bacon?\u201d<\/p>\n

There was the slam of a door shutting and within minutes Joe was in the room and pause to observe the guest. He glanced at Adam as though his brother would give him a clue as to who she was, and approached the table, helped himself to a slice of bacon and began to nibble at it while he nodded his head as though telling himself he knew exactly who she was\u2026.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, good morning, Joseph.\u201d Ben said tersely, \u201cYou\u2019re late.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m on time, Pa. It\u2019s Adam who is early.\u201d he smiled at Peggy, \u201cWell Peggy Dayton, back again huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t think you would recognise her\u201d Hoss muttered and frowned.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I have fond memories of Peggy from a few years ago. She hasn\u2019t changed so very much \u201c and he leaned in to kiss her on the cheek.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou haven\u2019t changed much either,\u201d Peggy laughed \u201cBut it is good to see you again, and you, too, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA lots changed since your last visit, Peg o\u2019 my heart. No wheelchair in sight \u2026\u201d Joe chuckled.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad. That means Hop Sing is relieved of all those ladies that were constantly calling and needing lemonade and cookies\u2026\u201d she turned to Hester \u201cthe yard used to be full of buggies, you know. He was like some kind of Potentate with all the ladies in town coming to give him presents and make sure he was well.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s because I wasn\u2019t well..\u201d Joe protested.<\/p>\n

Hester sighed and raised her eyebrows \u201cBefore my time.\u201d<\/p>\n

She turned her attention to feeding Erik who was being a little irksome over his food, it seemed to her that there was going to be a lot of \u2019catching up\u2019 on past visits for a while, not only of Peggy\u2019s previous time at the Ponderosa but obviously even to the time before that\u2026<\/p>\n

Adam listened to the chatter with a half smile on his face while he observed Peggy and wondered why she was at the Ponderosa now. She was laughing at something Joe was saying, a good hearty laugh that he somehow expected from the woman who had once been such a lively bright little girl.<\/p>\n

“Are you trying to be my friend?” She had asked him once as she happily accepted his gift.<\/p>\n

He could see that she had stronger features than Laura and that she had the look of Frank about her, which gave personality to her attractive features. He was pleased about that for in hindsight he recognised Laura’s prettiness as very fragile, and that she had not the strength of character her daughter displayed.<\/p>\n

Adam set down his cup upon its saucer and placed them on the table and realised as he raised his eyes that Hester was watching him. They smiled at one another and he knew from the twinkle in her eyes that she was finding their reactions to Peggy\u2019s presence amusing. Perhaps she, like himself, wondered why Miss Dayton was here once more.<\/p>\n

He turned to her and his eyes took on a mischievous twinkle of their own, ” What are you doing here? Just visiting family and friends? If so, for how long do we have the pleasure of your company?”<\/p>\n

She looked at him and then frowned slightly as though the matter needed serious consideration before she smiled and replied that it was because she wanted to see them all again and then she looked at Ben, \u201cI guess how long I stay really depends on Mr. Cartwright and Hester.”<\/p>\n

Joe laughed “Well, soon as you get tired of Hoss’ snoring you can come stay with us, there’s plenty of room.”<\/p>\n

Adam grinned and clapped a hand on Joe’s shoulder “And as soon as you get tired of Joe jawing you to death, you can come stay with us. Olivia would love having your company.”<\/p>\n

Peggy clasped her hands together and laughed as she looked at them all before her eyes returned to Adam “I’d love that…”<\/p>\n

Ben got to his feet and pushed himself away from the table as he dropped the napkin beside his plate “well, we have things to do, can’t stand around gossiping all morning.”<\/p>\n

“Hey, Pa, you can’t call catching up in news with Peggy as gossip, ” Joe instantly protested.<\/p>\n

“Fair enough,” Ben agreed, “but time waits for no man, and Peggy can tell you her news when you see her later. Hoss, finish up now and let’s get this day stArted.”<\/p>\n

“I thought it already had…” Hoss lamented and reached out for the last slice of bacon.<\/p>\n

“See you later then, Peggy.” Joe nodded, smiled and turned to follow Ben almost tripping over his father’s feet as he did so.<\/p>\n

“We’ll have to catch up sometime ” Adam said as he smiled at Peggy, ruffled Eric’s curls and nodded goodbye to Hester.<\/p>\n

He was closely followed from the room by Hoss who had to kiss his wife and daughters before leaving, nibbling at the bacon as he did so.<\/p>\n

……<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia couldn’t muster up a smile during the trip to school. Rose sat quietly beside her in sympathy although secretly she didn’t know what the fuss was all about and would have been only too happy if two boys were going to fight over her. Reuben gave up even trying to get her to talk and as they approached the building he muttered to her that she was a grouch and both boys needed their heads examined to be bothered about her.<\/p>\n

She couldn’t even pretend she was a Princess sweeping up the grand stairway as she usually did. Pretence and fairy tales paled into insignificance compared with reality. If someone had told her those very same stories involved boys and girls, albeit more grown up, being in love and having to fight for the sake of true love she would have wept.<\/p>\n

Miss Hayward became concerned about the listless little girl, so different from the bright and sparky child she had known. She asked her if she were feeling ill but Sofia only shook her head and blinked her eyes sadly.<\/p>\n

When recess arrived she did approach Mr Evans who had taken the last lesson , and asked if just perhaps she could stay in as she felt unwell. Mr Evans had heard the whisper among the boys when he had taken an earlier lesson with them,<\/p>\n

“That’s a shame, Sofia. It means Reuben will only have David Riley to keep him company … and Rose has been waiting for you as well. Are you sure you don’t want to go down. The fresh air will put those roses back in your cheeks.”<\/p>\n

She sighed and shook her head, whereupon Mr Evans stood up and sighed ” You must be suffering the same sickness as Tommy Conway and Jimmy Carstairs then. Neither of them came to school today either.”<\/p>\n

Sofia looked up and her eyes went large as he looked at him ” Are they sick then?”<\/p>\n

“According to their mothers, very much so.” Edward nodded.<\/p>\n

“So will they be better tomorrow?” she asked hopefully.<\/p>\n

“I get the impression they will not be back until Monday.” he smiled as she slid out from behind her desk “Are you feeling better all ready, Sofia.<\/p>\n

“I think so,” she said trying to remember how a recovering sick person should act.<\/p>\n

He watched as she almost ran out of the room, collecting her lunch along the way . Rosie was sitting patiently at the bottom of the stairs and stood up to meet her, a wide smile on her face as her friend came almost skipping down to meet her.<\/p>\n

Davy Riley was annoyed by the whole business. In the the spirit of entrepreneurship he had promised some fine entertainment during recess and some of the older boys were demanding to know what the hold up was … He was not happy!<\/p>\n

…….<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A welcome break came for Ben and his sons, Candy and some ranch hands. The day was turning warmer and it was good to dismount and sprawl under a large tree in order to refresh themselves.<\/p>\n

It didn’t take long for the conversation to turn to Peggy’s visit.<\/p>\n

“Did you know she was coming, Pa?” Joe asked as nonchalantly as possible as he bit into a piece of chicken.<\/p>\n

Ben shook his head “I didn’t even recognise her.” Ben replied, he shrugged “It’s been some years since we last saw her.”<\/p>\n

“she’s more serious that I expected,” Hoss frowned and pondered over the fact, as though he was rather disappointed<\/p>\n

“yes, I thought so too.” Joe sighed and tossed the chicken bone over his shoulder, “She was full of life when she came before…which was a good thing considering how ill I was at the time.”<\/p>\n

“She was only 17 wasn’t she? A very young trusting 17′, if I recall rightly.” Ben leaned back against the tree and glanced over at Adam ” You weren’t here at the time …”<\/p>\n

“No, I met her briefly before she left for Switzerland” Adam stared out to the far distance, “It was after Barbara married Pearson. I’d been in Alaska.”<\/p>\n

The three others fell silent … a lot had happened in their own lives back then. The murmur of the other Cowboys voices trickled around them. Ben stretched out his legs,<\/p>\n

“She said she knew Professor Stevens. They met when she had gone to England. They share the same interests.”<\/p>\n

Hoss licked his fingers before wiping them down his pants “Yeah, fancy that little gal getting interested in old bones.” he shook his head as though he still couldn’t get over the shock.<\/p>\n

“You mean she’s an archaeologist too.” Adam asked as he reached for his hat and began to clamber to his feet.<\/p>\n

“If that’s what they’re called, then I guess so.” his brother replied as he also got from under tree.<\/p>\n

Adam made no reply that, but now that there was work to do the four men put their thoughts regarding Peggy to one side. Ben settled his hat to share his eyes, mounted his horse and followed by his sons, Candy and their men, led the way back to their work.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

Peggy had never been a person content to a life of domesticity so it was not long before Hester\u2019s bustling about being busy and the girl\u2019s demands on her time began to become irritating. She waited until Hester had settled for a mid-morning respite, where she could sit down and drink some coffee, and talk to her visitor. By that time Peggy had run out of the desire to do the same and requested very politely if it would be alright if she could have one of the horses.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course you can,\u201d Hester smiled, and called out to Hannah to be a little quieter while she was talking to Peggy. \u201cBen would want you to enjoy your time here. Where do you intend to go?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaurice gave me the directions to the caves, where the Spanish Consquistadors were found. I would like to go and take a look at them.\u201d Peggy stood up and smoothed down her skirts, \u201cI suppose I should take that buggy back to town..\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh don\u2019t worry about that, Ezra took it in this morning. But if you prefer a buggy, we have a single seater, and Mistral is a good little horse, she\u2019ll take you anywhere you wish.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMmm, is she saddle broke?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, of course.\u201d Hester sighed and picked Erik up from wandering near her sewing basket. She balanced him on her knee for a moment and then looked at Peggy who was rummaging about in one of the cases she had brought with her, \u201cIt\u2019s quite rugged country round about there, Peggy. You will be careful, won\u2019t you? Would you rather have one of the men go with you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Peggy flashed her a quick smile and shook her head \u201cNo, it\u2019s quite alright, I\u2019ve been riding since I was little.\u201d<\/p>\n

She pulled a folder from the case and flicked through the pages, then waved it in Hesters\u2019 direction \u201cMaurice left me all the information I need here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erik began to bawl, he was hungry, tired and wanted to go to sleep but not sure which of the two he wanted most. Hester jiggled him up and down on her lap for a moment and then looked over at Peggy who was pulling on her jacket, then before she could say another word the younger woman was gone. The door closed and Hannah looked over at Hester as though she were to blame for their new play mate leaving them. She grabbed Hope by the hand and hauled her over to the dolls house while Hester attended to Erik\u2019s needs and worried about Peggy getting lost.<\/p>\n

Peggy had no intention of getting lost. She saddled up a good looking sturdy horse by the name of Sam and was soon trotting out of the yard. Of course she could have visited Mary Ann or Olivia but she had had enough of home life and preferred to escape it for as long as she could. Naturally she was curious as to the choices Joe and Adam had made with regard to the kind of woman they chose for their wives, but for now a ride in the warm fresh air and a little exploration was far more preferable.<\/p>\n

She had a good wrist and controlled Sam well, guiding him the way she read the directions on Maurice\u2019s report It was good to be unencumbered of the house now, and able to embrace the sky and vast terrain around her. Birds sang, for it was spring time after all, and the burnish of green was shimmering on the trees as the leaves unfurled. She sometimes laughed at herself for loving life when she enjoyed the mysteries of the dead equally as much. Why she had chosen this career in her life she could not tell, perhaps it was a form of rebellion against her mother\u2019s way of life, or just fascination with the past.<\/p>\n

Sam trotted along at a comfortable pace and she was able to distinguish the landmarks on Maurices\u2019 hand drawn map quite easily enough. It was surprising to her how close to town the site was and for a moment she looked up and scanned the rock face with a look of wonder and amusement on her face. How strange the way things became revealed, all those years they would have ridden past this sprawl of hills and never realised the story of the horrors that lay concealed so near by to them.<\/p>\n

She let the horse find its own way through the rocks and over the scree laden ground until she could easily see the seams of the trenches where Maurice had had his workmen sifting out the artefacts. She imagined him quite enjoying himself in these surroundings, certainly vastly different from some other regions he, and she, had worked in.<\/p>\n

She thought of him now, and wondered what he would be doing Now the thought crossed her mind about the Law of Happenstance as she named it, the fact that Maurice was a cousin to Laurence and he a friend of Adam Cartrwight. She stopped Sam now and slipped from the saddle, keeping a grasp on the reins as she meandered over the ground with her eyes alert for any missed opportunity of a discovery.<\/p>\n

It had been another Happenstance that Rachel Willoughby, Laurence\u2019s wife, loved archaeology. The two women had shared many hours talking over various historical sites, strange findings in strange places, their fascination with the history of the dead, and of course, the Captain. Peggy had loved the story of Rachel\u2019s infatuation with Adam, Laurence\u2019s patient love for Rachel, which had finally been rewarded while she had been en route to declare her love to Adam – come what may – only it never did, because why chase a dream when the real thing was right there in her arms.<\/p>\n

Happy times, Peggy mused as she wandered upwards to where the gash in the rock face could now be clearly seen. Her mind now wandered to Hester and she sighed, well, it took all sorts to make a world, as Will often reminded his wife when she was lamenting the fact that Peggy didn\u2019t have a bone of domesticity in her body. But it was true, she just wasn;t interested in settling down like so many women, keeping house – shudder the thought – and cooking for a man who would grumble about the meat being burned or fuss over the newspaper being crumpled. No, she didn\u2019t want that, nor did she want children.<\/p>\n

She paused at the wide entrance to the cavern now and stooped down to peer into the darkness beyond. This was not the entrance that Reuben and The Gang had discovered, but the one that the Spanish soldiers had attempted to block up to prevent the Indians from getting into them, but leading it to become, quite quickly, their grave.<\/p>\n

Maurice had told her how excited he had been when he had seen the discovery. What a wonder that the Smithsonian had chosen to send him to look it over and make an inventory. How she envied him being here \u2026and she straightened her back and looked around her, taking in the wide skies with the clouds drifting by and here and there a bird lazily winging it\u2019s way across the surface of the blue blue yonder.<\/p>\n

She closed her eyes and inhaled the warm air, relaxed and exhaled.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you lost?\u201d<\/p>\n

The voice came from below, a man\u2019s voice and with a scowl she looked down and saw a horseman, his hand shading his eyes, peering up at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m not lost, thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The cheek of it. How could a person be lost half way up a mountain unless they actually wanted to be?<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you need any help?\u201d<\/p>\n

She shook her head and when he turned his horse\u2019s head with the obvious intention of riding up to \u2019assist her\u2019 she waved him away, \u201cI\u2019m alright, thank you. I know what I\u2019m doing. I don\u2019t need any help.\u201d<\/p>\n

He paused and looked puzzled and then smiled, she could see the smile spreading over his face \u201cOh, it\u2019s you, Miss Dayton. Well, good day to you then\u2026you know where you can find me if you should need any help.\u201d<\/p>\n

She watched him turn the horse away and then lope off down the track. Well, she thought, whoever you are, thank you for ruining my day.<\/p>\n

She stroked the horse\u2019s nose and turned away from the rock face. She would come again, better prepared next time. Maurice had asked her to do some background research so she would do that, which meant going into town and seeing what the library had to offer. With a cautious glance up the road to make sure the horseman had actually disappeared from sight, she mounted Sam and loped casually into Virginia City.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 6<\/p>\n

Although she had dressed in a modest riding outfit suitable for young ladies she still received several looks of disapproval from some of the local women who were more used to seeing the female gender sitting in wagons, or buggies or coaches. But she ignored such recalling the time when it was quite customary to ride into Virginia City on horseback, sometimes even with bare legs and skirts tucked up to the thigh. Obviously Virginia City had grown prudish with her wealth and prosperity.<\/p>\n

Amanda Ridley was talking to Mrs Carstairs when Peggy rode by and gave an appraising look of approval, although Mrs Carstairs did not. Mrs Garston snorted down her nose with disgust and Lucy, her daughter, opened her eyes wide in admiration. Peggy\u2019s appearance was about to set alight a trail of gossip that would delight every woman in town, whether they approved or not of her mode of entry.<\/p>\n

She dismounted outside the library and strode over to push the door open, having to elbow her way through a cluster of men who had gathered to give her a \u2018warmer than she would want welcome\u2019.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, now, that\u2019s a pretty little lady, if ever I saw one.\u201d a lanky young man swaggered up to her, obviously with the intention of creating an impression on his male friends than on her, he reached out to put a hand on her shoulder \u201cLet me introduce myself, Miss\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t bother yourself,\u201d Peggy replied curtly and dashed the offending hand to one side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t very friendly is she?\u201d he quipped and looked over his shoulder at the men there who were laughing and nudging one another.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She pushed him to one side and had her hand on the door when another man came and put his hand over hers, smiled down at her and raised his eyebrows \u201cYou don\u2019t want to go filling your head with things in there, Miss. We can think of lots of different things you could be doing with your time\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and -\u201d but the lanky youth got no further than that when a hand grabbed his shoulder and yanked him away so fast that he spun on his booted heels on the sidewalk<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWeren\u2019t meaning no harm, sheriff.\u201d he bleated and the other man dropped his hand away from Peggy, stepped aside as he did so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate Carney nodded and jerked his head to indicate that they had better disappear, and fast, the rifle nestled in the crook of his arm clearly made the point that he was not messing. Peggy watched them go and then turned to him,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, but I could have managed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure you could have done.,\u201d Nate replied rather taken aback at such a casual attitude towards his rescue, \u201cBut not without having to put up with more of their hassling.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps.\u201d she frowned then, \u201cIsn\u2019t Roy Coffee sheriff here now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRoy retired a while back. Nathaniel Carney at your service.\u201d he touched the brim of his hat and smiled, waited a moment for her to supply her name, which she did after some hesitation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate had no recollection of the Daytons and the history of Laura, Will and Adam meant nothing to him so he gave her the benefit of his smile and wished her a pleasant day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you for your help just now,\u201d Peggy said as though her rather abrupt comments could have been considered rude and ill mannered, and let her hand drop from his, before turning back to the library.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGlad to have been of service,.\u201d he touched the brim of his hat before walking away to continue with his rounds aware that she was watching him as he did so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She watched him walk away before she pushed open the door and entered the library. It greeted her with the overwhelming smell of paper and ink, leather and damp. She sighed, libraries really did smell all the same wherever one went in the world she decided.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A thin nervous looking woman , middle aged but looking older, looked at her and raised her eyebrows \u201cAre you applying for the vacancy \u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat vacancy?\u201d Peggy replied and shrugged \u201cNo, I\u2019ve come to look at some books, I want to do some research on the history of this territory going back to \u2026oh well, back to when it belonged to the Indians here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale sighed and shook her head, then pointed to some shelves further along where there was little light to be seen \u201cAnything of that nature can be found there. But I have to warn you it is very limited. We had -\u201d she lowered her voice realising it had reached a higher pitch than was acceptable in a librarian, rules had to be obeyed even if the library in question was well away from the beaten track so to speak. \u201cWe had quite some excitement a while back, I think it quite rewrites the history of this territory as we know it. But if you want to go back that far I\u2019m afraid you won\u2019t get anything, not unless Mr Stevens has written something already.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy leaned forward so that her face was much closer to Miss Tyndales \u201cHe hasn\u2019t written anything yet. That\u2019s why I\u2019m here\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh!\u201d Miss Tyndale blushed a little, this was news, and quite exciting news at that, \u201cYou know Mr Stevens?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cProfessor Stevens is a friend of mine, he wanted me to check on some facts and to write down anything I could find to add to what has been discovered that is new as a result of the discovery you had here.\u201d she extended her hand, after pulling off a glove \u201cI\u2019m Margaret Dayton.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two women shook hands cordially and then Peggy made her way to the area indicated and looked at all the reference books there, she took some down, glanced through them and returned them. One or two she decided merited further consideration and with them in hand she returned to the librarian, \u201cI\u2019ll take these.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale nodded, stamped them and handed them back \u201cI was thinking, some time back there was quite a bit of research done about this territory and quite a scandal resulted from it\u2026\u201d she leaned forward \u201cQuite a discovery of a cover up, and a massacre. Ended up by a well respected figure in town being disgraced, and the last surviving man of a tribe of Indians being killed. Terrible it was\u2026but then one can never be sure what\u2019s going to happen when a Cartwright gets his finger in some pie or another.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright? \u201c Peggy frowned, then smiled, no, Miss Tyndale was right there, no one ever knew for sure what could happen when a Cartwright was involved in anything.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam Cartwright. He stood in for the school teacher \u2026\u201d Miss Tyndale paused, then realised she could quite easily slip into the dangerous territory of gossip, not something the rules of Librarians were permitted<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded and Miss Tyndale cleared her throat – officiously this time -\u201dI know he did a lot of research so may be more able to help you .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded, thanked the little woman for her help and hugging the books under her arm strolled out of the building.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Of course she could remember the story now. Barbara Scott had told her all about it by way of explanation as to how she had got to know Adam Cartwright so well, and what had happened to Major Scott whom Peggy had always been told by her father was an \u2018honourable man\u2019. She sighed, and shook her head while her eyes strayed across to where she had stayed with Miss Scott all those years ago. Except it wasn\u2019 really so very long ago, it just seemed like it. Time passed by so quickly, too quickly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sam was nodding over the rail when she reached him and she slipped the books into her saddle bag and mounted easily into the saddle. No helping hand to hoist her up into the saddle now, and with a sharp tug at the reins she turned the horse round and made her way down the main street and out of town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam kissed his wife on the cheek and then stooped a little to pick up Nathaniel, who hugged his father tightly around the neck.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBin good boy, daddy.\u201d he assured his father and looked over at his mother for her to confirm just how good.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia ran into the room and looked bright and happy. Adam narrowed his eyes, and looked at her thoughtfully, \u201cSo how did your day go at school, young lady?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was alright, I got my math right and Miss Hayward said I was – what was that word, mommy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMeticulous\u201d Olivia said and took Nathaniel from her husband\u2019s arms and set him down on the ground so that he could scamper off to play.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo that\u2019s what I am, mette lichous.\u201d she frowned, it didn\u2019t sound quite right, but what did it matter. She turned to her mother only to have her father ask her what or who won the duel. She shook her head \u201cThey wasn\u2019t there, they was ill.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey were ill.\u201d he corrected with the lift of one eyebrow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, they was.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia and Adam looked at one another, so much for being meticulous. Sofia ran off and was happy to play with her little brother in the other room where Reuben was concentrating on his school work., applying much more meticulous attention to it than Sofia would even consider.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once he knew that he had his wife alone, Adam took her hand and drew her closer to him, \u201cI\u2019ve got a problem!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReally? Why? What\u2019s happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He shrugged slightly and then rubbed the back of his neck, Olivia turned to him and waited, her eyes scanned his face, \u201cIs it very serious?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Laura -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLaura Dayton – ?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHer daughter, Peggy, arrived at the Ponderosa yesterday. It means that I may have to cancel the weekend. I had hoped to take Reuben on a hunting trip, just us two together. I wanted to make up for the time I was away – \u201c he frowned, \u201cBut with Peggy being here -.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow long is she here for?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He shrugged and then slipped his arms around waist and drew her closer to him so that their bodies were leaning into each other, \u201cI don\u2019t know. There wasn\u2019t much conversation at breakfast and Pa was in a rush to get started. They didn\u2019t\u2019 say much as to why she was here except that it had something to do with Professor Stevens.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked blank, the name didn\u2019t register and she was about to ask who it was exactly he meant when Reuben exclaimed \u201cProfessor Stevens – is that my friend who dug up the things where I found the conquistadors., Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had come into the room to welcome his Pa home and overheard the reference to Maurice Stevens, a man whom he had, child like, put upon a pedestal. Adam let go of his wife\u2019s hand and turned to Reuben, it was obvious the boy was brimming with curiosity.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do believe it is, son.\u201d Adam flashed him a smile, and could see the excitement in the boys eyes at the mention of the man, perhaps a hunting trip would be considered boring in comparison after all?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWow, is he here, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, but a friend of his is and -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWait till the gang hear about this, they\u2019ll want to see him\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHer.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHer?\u201d Reuben frowned and looked at his mother and then at his father, \u201cA \u2018her?\u201d<\/p>\n

Is that allowed?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam laughed and released Olivia in order to ruffle his son\u2019s hair \u201cAnd why not? Peggy\u2019s very clever, she knows all about such things.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure, Pa?\u201d Reuben sounded sceptical, \u201cI mean – does she really know all about things like Maurice did?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cProfessor or Mr Stevens to you, young man.\u201d Olivia said sternly, \u201cAnd why shouldn\u2019t Peggy know all about such things? Don\u2019t talk such rubbish, she is quite as capable of digging up some bones as Mr Stevens -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOr the town drunk\u2019s dog.\u201d Adam slipped in with a chuckle which gained him a slap on the shoulder from his wife.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nodded and his face became serious \u201cWell, in that case, she\u2019ll want to know all about how we found them, and where they were\u2026do you think she\u2019ll want us to take her to see the cave?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure she will.\u201d Adam nodded and grinned as he watched his son hurry out of the room, then he looked at his wife and raised his eyebrows. Olivia laughed and kissed him quickly,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that settles the problem for you, doesn\u2019t it? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess so, good thing I hadn\u2019t mentioned it to him already.\u201d Adam replied and watched his wife as she returned to her duties \u201cI best get cleaned up. Pa\u2019s expecting us there tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded but her mind was already dwelling on the thought of meeting Peggy Dayton, daughter of Laura.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 7<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The table settings were just perfect, cutlery gleamed and the wine glasses caught the light and sparkled. \u00a0 Hester had placed a bowl of early spring flowers in the centre of the table, and was standing back to admire their effect when Peggy \u00a0entered the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Peggy, just in time\u2026\u201d she turned with a smile and tried to ignore the look of dismay on Peggy\u2019s face, \u201cWe have the family coming for the evening meal.\u00a0 It\u2019s the usual, just a round up of Cartwrights\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy pulled off her hat and glanced at the table, it seemed to her that it was a rather extravagant round up, and one she had not anticipated although, perhaps, she should have done.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go and tidy up.\u201d she muttered and hurried to the stairs, \u00a0her hat clasped in her hands along with the books she had claimed from the library.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester sighed with relief, \u00a0and then glanced anxiously over at the clock which at times like this was always the enemy.\u00a0 There were, at times, a remorselessness about the hands of a clock, the way nothing stopped time ticking away their lives.\u00a0 When under pressure to get everything right it always seemed that the ticking went that much faster.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Cheng Ho Lee and Hop Sing combined forces now for \u00a0these meals. \u00a0 There were adults as well as children to be taken into consideration and then a guest as well.\u00a0 Gone were the days when just four men sat to \u2018break bread together\u2019 at the table, now when the family gathered it was seven adults and eight children, all of whom \u00a0gave the appearance of having deliberately starved themselves for a week in order to eat as much as they could on these occasions, even the babies \u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Neither man minded, they chatted amongst themselves as they prepared and cooked the meal, and Hester arranged the table to perfection. \u00a0 The same took place when it was Olivia\u2019s turn to be hostess or Mary Ann.\u00a0 They had not yet considered Wang Lee sufficiently qualified to take on any significant role, \u00a0he had been assigned duties to peeling vegetables and told to observe and learn. \u00a0 He was, however, kept too busy with his more menial tasks to observe anything, and only learned that the sooner he rose in the pecking order the better.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe and Mary Ann arrived first with Daniel and Constance, \u00a0and in her room Peggy listened to the sounds of greetings and laughter.\u00a0 She heard the shrill sounds of \u00a0children chattering and wondered where Hester had concealed her three while she prepared this feast. \u00a0 Hoss\u2019 voice boomed suddenly through the floor boards followed by \u00a0Ben\u2019s, their tones drifting upwards into the room where Peggy was brushing knots out of her hair and wondering what the evening would be like\u2026certainly if smells were anything to go by, the food was going to be delicious.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was coming down the stairs when Adam and Olivia entered the house, \u00a0and for a moment she paused on the half landing to watch them. \u00a0 For some reason she had expected Adam to be married to a woman similar in looks to Barbara Scott so was surprised to see a woman so pale in contrast. \u00a0 Olivia removed her shawl and glanced up, perhaps aware of being under scrutiny, and when her eyes met those of the younger woman it was Peggy who blushed and felt uneasy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia had not been looking forward to meeting \u00a0Margaret Dayton., Peggy as all the Cartwrights called her. \u00a0 She was not envious or jealous of the past affections that Adam had felt for Laura, she was quite confident and secure in the love her husband had for her, but for Peggy \u2026 she was more than aware of how much affection Adam had always had for this woman, after all, had things been different Peggy would have been in the same position that Sofia enjoyed, being Adam\u2019s step daughter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had been quiet throughout the \u00a0short trip to the Ponderosa ranch as she had thought over the odd twists in their lives, the way people would meet and drift apart, only to meet again in different circumstances.\u00a0 The people themselves were harmless enough, but it was the emotional bonds that were involved, that could be picked up and resumed, they were the threats to the present status quo. \u00a0 If Adam had noticed her silence he had not mentioned it, for Reuben kept up a constant chatter while Nathaniel had wanted to know why he hadn\u2019t been able to bring \u00a0his trailer to Granpa\u2019s.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia had sat in silence, mainly because her head itched from her braids having been plaited so tightly.\u00a0 Sadly she had been the victim of Olivia\u2019s attack of nerves, and had had to endure a lot of tugging and pulling while her hair had been \u2018tidied up\u2019 and rearranged.\u00a0 She sat in the back of the buggy wondering how she could loosen the braids so that she could feel that much more comfortable.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The children ran together, chattering and laughing, pushing and tugging while their parents removed outer garments, greeted each other with a lot of noise before it fell silent as Peggy came down the last of the stairs and turned towards them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Then the greetings towards her were loud and welcoming, \u00a0Mary Ann was introduced by Joe who had Constance on his arm, \u00a0and Daniel no where to be seen because he was chasing after Nathaniel.\u00a0 Peggy and Mary Ann smiled and nodded at one another, and then Adam came forward to introduce Olivia.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The expressive green eyes lingered over Peggy and darkened, \u00a0a smile lingered there,, warm and welcoming, and she responded in turn, taking Olivia\u2019s hand in her own and laughing when Adam announced blithely that he had told his wife everything about her.\u00a0 Well, perhaps not everything he admitted as he chuckled and brought Sofia forward to be introduced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Then Reuben bounced forward and wanted to know if she really knew Maurice Stevens, his friend. \u00a0 With a degree of relief Peggy turned to him, and the handsome lad \u00a0proceeded to tell her all about the way he and his gang had fallen down a hole and found the Spanish soldiers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re called conquistadors, you know?\u201d \u00a0he told her solemnly and then before she could catch her breath produced a note book that he had kept hidden from his parents and now thrust under her nose \u201cI brung all my notes for you to look see, and you can tell Maurice I did what he said, \u00a0I kept it all written down about how we found them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam put a hand on the boy’s shoulder, \u201cLeave it for later, son, \u00a0Aunt Hester wants us to the table now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw, but Pa\u2026\u201d Reuben sighed, his shoulders slumped and he trailed behind his father knowing from experience that once adults started to talk together there was little chance of a child being heard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But Peggy was not like other adults for she found the boy\u2019s interest in the subject she loved herself, quite endearing. \u00a0 She made a point of sitting next to Reuben so that she could lean across to talk to him while the rest of the conversation between the families drifted over her head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When she was not talking to Reuben she took time to observe the Cartwrights young and old, and occasionally she would catch their eye and there would be an exchange of nods and smiles.\u00a0 But she always fell back onto Reuben and assured him that she would be most interested in reading through the notes he had made during the excavations.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave you been on any of Maurice\u2019s field trips, Peggy?\u201d Ben asked while the plates were being whisked away to be replaced by dishes for the dessert.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cQuite a few.\u201d she smiled, and nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you know Laurence and Rachel I understand?\u201d Adam now asked and she looked over at him and smiled, \u201cYou must have been pleased to have had Rachel to talk to, \u00a0about your \u00a0mutual interests in archaeology.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRachel still doesn\u2019t like Egypt.\u00a0 She\u2019s busy now, distracted by children.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh yes ..\u201d Adam smiled and looked over at Olivia and winked at her, \u00a0\u201cBut I don\u2019t think she was so ardent about such things as yourself, or her sister.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded \u201cNo she isn\u2019t, sadly not enough women are \u2026 yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia leaned forward now \u201cIt must have been quite a challenge to you , \u00a0it being such a male dominated field of expertise, college could not have been easy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy sighed and nodded, then gave a slight smile \u201cIt wasn\u2019t easy at all, if it hadn\u2019t been for President James Calder* I doubt if there would be any women in college even now.\u00a0 But Rebecca Ewing* graduated from Pennsylvania State College in \u201871 and that opened the way for others to attend. \u00a0 I guess it will be a lot easier for Sofia and Hannah, Hope and Constance thanks to her. \u00a0\u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann nodded \u201cThey were true pioneers.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy looked at her and smiled, nodded in agreement.\u00a0 Obviously Mary Ann had an appreciation for female emancipation, \u00a0and Peggy felt more drawn to her as a result.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia sighed and swung her feet back and forth under the table, \u201cI want to stay home, when I stop going to school.\u00a0 I want to stay home with mommy and daddy\u2026and granpa and I\u2019m not going any place else.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot me too.\u201d Hannah protested and nodded her head vehemently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou may change you mind when you get older,\u201d Olivia said, \u00a0but Sofia shook her head and scowled darkly.\u00a0 As far as she was concerned school was bad enough. Why<\/p>\n

would anyone want to prolong the misery?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy, \u00a0what plans do you have while you\u2019re here?\u00a0 Do you want to \u00a0go any particular place?\u00a0 What about your home – the Dayton ranch?\u201d Hoss asked, deciding that there needed to be a change of topic.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve already been .\u201d Peggy said quietly, \u201cI met the new owners, Mr and Mr Greigson, father and son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss and Joe exchanged glances and then looked back at her \u201cHOw\u2019d you find them?\u00a0 Were they – reasonable?\u201d Hoss asked, wishing that he had kept his mouth shut now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, very polite.\u00a0 They invited me inside and gave me something to drink.\u201d she sighed and shrugged her shoulders, a slight shadow of misery passed over her face before she continued to speak \u201cIt was strange, \u00a0seeing the changes, and yet – the similarities too.\u00a0 They were – kind of – sitting side by side if you can imagine what I mean.\u00a0 But mostly it was just so different. \u00a0 I had kept the picture of what it was like in my head so much over the years that it surprised me to find it so different.\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0she glanced at Joe, \u201cI guess I should have gone there last time I was here, but my time was so taken up with you and Miss Scott.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess I should have taken you there myself,\u201d Joe muttered, \u201cIt never occurred to me to do so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI never asked so how would you have known, you had so much going on at the time.\u201d Peggy replied and flashed him a warm smile of affection \u00a0at the recollection of those days.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dessert arrived amid exclamations of praise and delight and for a while conversation paused while dishes and bowls were filled and the wine glasses had more poured into them. \u00a0\u201cWhat did \u00a0you make of the Greigson\u2019s, apart from their being polite to you?\u201d Joe now asked, \u201cOld Mr Greigson can be a bit touchy at times\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe was alright,\u201d she smiled and then her eyebrows rose in an arch and she said \u2018Oh! I think I met his son this afternoon when I was at the dig, and I think I was rather rude to him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben\u2019s face dropped \u201cOh you went to the dig already?\u00a0 But I wanted to take you there myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am sorry, Reuben, I just didn\u2019t realise you were going to be such an authority on it, otherwise I would have waited for you to take me. \u00a0 But I only went there and looked at where it was, I didn\u2019t go inside.\u00a0 You will still take me, won\u2019t \u00a0you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben sighed, he looked at Adam and raised his eyebrows, then looked back at her, \u201cYeah, sure, but you should have waited for me to help you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am sorry.\u201d she replied contritely although there was a twinkle in her eyes as she spoke and when she looked up she saw Adam smiling at her and smiled back. \u00a0\u201cWe can go on Saturday, if your Ma and Pa don\u2019t have any plans for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peace reigned and Reuben nodded contentedly.\u00a0 He would tell the gang in the morning and whoever wanted to come could, but secretly he would have preferred it if he could just have her all to himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 8<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

While the younger children played for the little time they had before bed, the adults sat in a semi circle around the fire to relax with a drink and to talk among themselves. Reuben was a little isolated on these occasions \u00a0being older and was permitted to sit on the floor leaning against his father\u2019s legs and on the proviso that he \u2018listened and learned and said nothing\u2019.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a while talk was quite general, and the men led the conversation to the subjects that were mainly to deal with work on the ranch and the tasks that were necessary to be undertaken the following week.\u00a0 But gradually it trickled towards other subjects and the women, who had been conversing among themselves in quiet tones, began to steer the conversation to the subject of Peggy\u2019s college experiences.\u00a0 Mary Ann was, of course, particularly interested in listening to what Peggy had to say as she was a keen advocate of women having more voice in matters that seemed so male dominated and sat engrossed as the young woman talked about the difficulties of being a young woman, \u00a0well, barely a woman, at a college that had been dominated by the male gender.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt must have been a constant battle,\u201d Mary Ann said with that familiar little frown that indicated she was giving the matter serious thought.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was, every day, every evening. \u201c Peggy nodded and smiled at Ben as he offered her a glass of wine, \u00a0and after she had thanked him she continued to tell them just what a battle it had \u00a0been, \u201cTeachers and students alike were patronising and at times quite insulting.\u00a0 They sneered at us, \u00a0as though we lacked any intelligence, they pretended to show surprise whenever we attended the lectures – so we made sure that we were always there first, however few in number we were – we had to show solidarity.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose they felt threatened\u2026\u201d Mary Ann murmured but Peggy laughed at that, rather a harsh laugh and Olivia caught Adam\u2019s eye, for he had looked surprised as though he has not expected to hear Peggy laugh in such a manner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey didn\u2019t show any evidence of feeling threatened.\u00a0 The teachers taught us under sufferance and the students were constantly harassing us\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean by that?\u201d Hester asked, \u00a0looking anxiously at Hannah as though she were already envisaging the difficulties her little girl would have to face in the future, as though they were problems to be confronted tomorrow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, they never took us seriously, constantly expecting us to drop out during the three or four years the course may take\u2026and of course, always talking to us as though the only reason we were there was in order to get a husband. \u201c she shrugged \u201cAs though that was important, the last thing any of us wanted was a husband.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

No one answered that, Ben cleared his throat and opened his mouth to start another subject, \u00a0Hester and Olivia looked at one another and raised their eyebrows while Mary Ann looked thoughtful.\u00a0 Joe slipped his hand into hers as though to remind her she did have a husband and seemed quite happy about the fact. \u00a0 Reuben looked up at his father and wondered what Peggy was actually talking about, \u00a0so far as he knew the girls and boys at school got on pretty well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy sighed and gave a slight shrug of the shoulders \u201cWe just wanted to get on with our studies, and although some of the girls did get involved with the boys – romantically I mean – not everyone did. \u00a0 In the main none of us really wanted to settle down, \u00a0get married and have babies. We wanted careers and to earn our own way.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed and glanced over to his wife, who was looking away from them into the fire, while Hester was looking curious and Ben was obviously uncomfortable. \u00a0 \u00a0Adam turned to look at the younger woman now, \u00a0as though trying to find the little Peggy he had cared for so much in the past.\u00a0 Joe was doing the same, this new woman was quite different from the changeling child she had been when he had last seen her about ten years previously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you want to get married then?\u201d Mary Ann finally asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe.\u00a0 Perhaps.\u201d Peggy smiled and her eyes twinkled, \u00a0she sipped her wine, \u201cBut not when I was at college, \u00a0and not just now. I have a good career, and I have worked hard and been places and -\u201d she sighed \u201cand yet we still lag behind.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean by that?\u201d Adam asked now, twisting his wine glass round and round between his fingers, and aware of his wife turning her attention to him and the conversation now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, \u00a0take for example a woman who has a career in – say – the teaching profession.\u201d Peggy began and Mary Ann immediately said \u201cI was a school teacher for some years.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded \u201cBut you aren\u2019t now, are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course not, \u00a0once I got married I had to leave, \u00a0after all -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAfter all you had a husband, \u00a0a home and children to care for\u2026.but if you had been a man,\u201d Peggy leaned forward and her eyes widened, \u00a0fixed upon Mary Ann\u2019s face, \u201cIf you had been a man, being married would have been a bonus, \u00a0you would be regarded as a positive influence to society, \u00a0and you would still be teaching.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Everyone\u2019s face registered different emotions to that conclusion, \u00a0Olivia and Hester looked at one another again, and saw in the others expression the same feeling, \u00a0Mary Ann looked even more thoughtful and was nodding slowly as though she could understand exactly what Peggy was saying.\u00a0 All the men looked uncomfortable, \u00a0Ben was obviously irritated and wishing someone would change the subject, Joe was worried about what his wife was going to say when he got home, Hoss was wondering what exactly was wrong with a woman being married and raising a family without having to \u2018work\u2019, \u00a0and Adam was wondering where his little Peggy had disappeared to\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia leaned forward to catch Peggy\u2019s attention \u201cAre you saying that a woman who marries and raises a family has less value than a woman who pursues a career in a male dominated arena?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy glanced over at Adam who had pursed his lips and now had a twinkle in his eyes, \u00a0she shook her head \u201cEvery woman I speak to who \u00a0is in that situation reacts in the same way, Olivia.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn what way is that?\u201d Hester now said, willing to give Olivia her support.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDefensive.\u201d Peggy sighed, \u201cBut I\u2019m not attacking any woman who stays home to raise a family, I\u2019m well aware of all the hard work that entails, and the responsibilities.\u201d \u00a0she frowned, and again looked over at Adam, \u201cBut not every woman wants to pursue that life, they want to be independent and have a career, and if they do choose to do so, then why shouldn\u2019t they have the same wage and same respect as a man?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not indeed,\u201d Mary Ann murmured and leaned back into the cushions with a slight frown on her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s just so unfair, after all\u2026\u201d \u00a0Peggy looked at Adam now as though only he and she were having the conversation \u201cwomen have the brains and the strengths and -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDifferent strengths.\u201d \u00a0Joe now muttered, and squeezed Mary Ann\u2019s hand as though wanting her to support him, rather than follow along Peggy\u2019s route.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed and nodded \u201cWell, \u00a0a woman is as capable as a man in many ways, I\u2019ll grant you that, \u00a0and I know many women who have proven that many times over. \u00a0 There\u2019s a lot of truth in the saying \u2018Behind every man there is a woman,\u2019 but -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut so long as the little woman stays behind the seat of power\u2026\u201d Peggy exclaimed which was enough to make Ben choke when he swallowed his whiskey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t say that, I was acknowledging the fact that when a man marries his wife often proves to be the power that steers the ship\u2026.it\u2019s just that on board a ship there can\u2019t be two captains.\u201d \u00a0and he gave Peggy a stern look, not exactly a reprimand but a reminder that she was a guest in his father\u2019s house and good manners required that she moderated her comments.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester stood up and gave a slight rather wobbly smile, \u201cI have to get these children to bed, it\u2019s later than I thought.\u201d \u00a0she muttered a swift \u2018Excuse me\u2026\u201d and gathered up her little ones and hastened them to the stairs where they called out Good night and waved little hands to their various aunts and uncles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded \u201cBest we got home too, \u00a0Reuben get your things together now, Sofia\u2026?\u00a0 Say goodnight to everyone\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed and smiled over at Peggy \u201cWell, Peg o\u2019my heart, you\u2019ve certainly changed since I last saw you\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy sighed, \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Joe, but is has been some years since, and I\u2019ve experienced things during those years that have, perhaps, given me a different direction to life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann stood up and smoothed down her skirts, then she turned to the younger woman and took her hand in hers, \u201cI like you, Peggy, \u00a0and I agree with a lot of what you say, I have always believed in some things but I think women have a long way to go yet before they have real equality with men.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy sighed \u201cI guess so, \u00a0but to be honest, that isn\u2019t the first time I\u2019ve heard that either.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia was quiet on the journey home, \u00a0as was Adam although Reuben was talkative enough for it not to be noticed. \u00a0 Sofia was excited too, \u00a0interrupting her brother \u00a0at times as she kept reminding him that Peggy had said that she could go to the caves as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Sofia, you can\u2019t. \u00a0 It\u2019s just for me and the gang\u2026.\u201d Reuben protested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy said I could go, she said that it was alright and that I can go.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you can\u2019t. \u00a0 Anyway, girls aren\u2019t allowed.\u201d Reuben scowled and looked over at Adam who was choosing to ignore the battle of words going on in the back seat of the buggy. Olivia was uncomfortable it seemed the conversation with Peggy was continuing right to her own home with her children and she wanted to give them both a scolding and tell them to be quiet. \u2018Like good children\u2019. \u00a0 But even thinking that made her wonder what exactly that meant.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel was the only sensible one of them all, he was sound asleep and snoring.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe and Mary Ann were quiet on the way home as well. \u00a0 Joe was used to Mary Ann discussing subject relative to emancipation of women, he had seen the books she read, and listened patiently to what she had to say about them. \u00a0 \u00a0 One of her favourites had been \u201cAre Women a Class?\u201d by Lillie Blake * written in 1870, \u00a0and \u201cEndorsing Women\u2019s Enfranchisement\u201d by Adelle Hazlett * in 1871 but her favourite of all had been \u201cOn Woman\u2019s right to Suffrage\u201d by Susan Anthony* in 1872. \u00a0 All three of them were gracing the book shelves and regularly taken down and re-read.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe does talk a lot of sense,\u201d Mary Ann finally said as she carried Constance to wards the house, followed by Joe who had Daniel in his arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess so, \u00a0and I\u2019m not against what she is saying, just the way she says it.\u201d Joe muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose she\u2019s found that that is the only way she can say it, because otherwise people won\u2019t take any notice of her.\u201d Mary Ann replied and looked at her husband thoughtfully, \u201cJoe, you do know that I don\u2019t regret giving up my career, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI -\u201d he gulped, after all he hadn\u2019t really thought about it, \u00a0not in the way she meant, not in the way of it being \u00a0a sacrifice of her independence. \u201cI know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded, so long as he understood, she thought, \u00a0little realising that Joe was a long way of understanding all the subtleties behind what she said.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDang it, Hester, what was Peggy going on about so much?\u201d Hoss asked as he pulled back \u00a0the sheets in order to slip into bed, \u00a0and waited for her to braid her hair and join him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester sighed and sat on the edge of the bed and stared out of the window, \u00a0then shook her head \u201cSomething that has been talked about and discussed for generations, darling, and no closer to being solved now than it was in the Garden of Eden.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh!\u201d Hoss nodded and settled his head against the pillow, \u00a0he frowned \u201cYou know, Hester, if Adam hadn\u2019t been such a chump and taken that dang fruit from Eve we wouldn\u2019t be in the mess we are in today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester said nothing but gave her husband a long look before slipping in beside him, she took hold of his hand and sighed \u201cDarling, you are so right. \u00a0 Eve had all that power in her hands\u2026.didn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026well\u2026a piece of fruit anyway\u2026\u201d Hoss yawned and entirely missed the point, but it gave Hester something to think about for a few minutes at least.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy paused at the bottom of the stairs to look over at her host who was knocking out the last of the tobacco from the bowl of his pipe into the fire. \u00a0\u201cMr Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Peggy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled are her, \u00a0generous and kindly, while his dark eyes held back the questions that he may have wished to have asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hope I didn\u2019t offend you this evening.\u00a0 That really wasn\u2019t my intention.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His smile broadened, he gave a slight shrug of the shoulders and then put the pipe on its stand. \u00a0 He then turned to her \u201cIt\u2019s understandable that you have strong views on a subject that seems very important to you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it is, \u00a0but at the same time I didn\u2018t – I shouldn\u2019t have – spoken quite so freely as I did this evening. I do apologise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He approached her and stood close to her, looking into her dark e yes and trying to find the little girl he had once played games with in the \u00a0yard, or \u00a0chatted too during the day, all those years ago when Adam was suffering \u2026he sighed and put a hand on her arm, \u201cYou have obviously had to put up a fight for what you believe in, Peggy.\u00a0 I don\u2019t blame you for speaking out.\u201d he looked back into the room and nodded thoughtfully, slowly, \u201cThis room has been host to many strong opinions in the past, my dear, and no doubt will hear many more\u2026you arn’t the first, nor will be \u00a0the last.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded, wondering if she were being dismissed, if what she believed in what being giving merely the nod of the head to and forgotten, \u00a0\u201cIt was hard, has been hard, \u00a0to be recognised as an archaeologist first and a woman second.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can imagine it has been, but you aren\u2019t unhappy with \u00a0your choice, are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shook her head \u201cNo, \u00a0not at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled, hesitated about kissing her on the cheek to bid her goodnight as he would once have done, but stepped back for her to make her way up the stairs.\u00a0 Peggy turned and didn\u2019t look back, somehow she missed that kiss, \u00a0she hadn\u2019t realised just how much it had meant to her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 9<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs Albierno \u2018s Boarding House adjoined the restaurant she ran and in which Adam and Candy had had the unfortunate run in with Mr Crook some months earlier. She was a bustling cheerful woman who had arrived from Sicily some years earlier and her cuisine had rated so highly among the citizens of Virginia City that it rivalled Del Monico\u2019s reputation for clientele.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had been in the town with her family long enough to have witnessed quite a few of the towns\u2019 adventures, and said farewell to a number of good solid citizens . Sally Byrnes establishment had closed not long after the man called Lassiter had arrived in time to save the Cartwrights from hanging, and the next occupant who called it The Bluebell Caf\u00e9 died during the cholera epidemic. But Mrs Albierno had sailed on, regardless and reaped the rewards.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She opened the door to a rather polite tapping on the glass and smiled at the woman standing before her, luggage stacked neatly around her. The woman smiled back and very politely asked if there were rooms available for rent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow many rooms exactly?\u201d Mrs Albeirno asked, peering cautiously around and over the woman\u2019s shoulder in case there was a husband and a myriad children hidden behind her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow many do you have available?\u201d came the immediate reply, and another pleasant smile, \u201cI would really be delighted if there was a bedroom and a room adjoining it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs Albierno\u2019s eyebrows shot up in the air and she had to stop to think for a moment before she nodded \u201cSi, I can do for you this time\u2026..you come on in and we discuss, yes?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The stranger nodded and entered the house, leaving the luggage on the doorstep for Mr Albierno to trip over and realise he was meant to bring in side. There was a swift conversation between him and his wife with regards to the new boarder who obviously had delusions of grandeur, but he lost, and trailed up the stairs to place the cases in the designated rooms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the meantime Mrs Albierno established some facts about the newcomer\u2026a single lady, Elizabeth Godfrey. Originally from a small town in New Hampshire but had travelled west in the hope of marriage only to learn that her fiance had been killed in an Indian raid. Unable to settle in that locality she had decided to try Virginia City for a while, and, should it be suitable, to settle down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou are sure that I will not be causing you any inconvenience by having the two rooms, arn\u2019t you?\u201d she insisted as she pulled off her gloves and looked anxiously around the foyer for sight, perhaps, of the other clients.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is no trouble, for you, no trouble.\u201d Mrs Albierno assured her and then tackled the matter of discussing costs and so forth, the rules of the establishment, the times for the meals etc. Miss Godfrey listened attentively, nodded and smiled and promptly opened her purse and paid two months rental in advance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mr Albierno, having descended the stairs and panting just a little was all smiles when he saw the money passing hands, he nodded and grinned at the young woman when she passed him by, her back straight and her eyes, behind her spectacles, looking straight ahead, the key to her rooms in a hand adorned, he noticed, by several very expensive rings.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once she was inside the rooms Miss Godfrey paused a moment to take stock of what she had actually purchased for the coming two months. It was adequate, and it was clean. She walked over to the window and pulled back the curtains to allow the morning light to filter through the net curtains. The view was of a small yard with washing blowing in the spring breezes. For a while she just stood there, as though her mind was far, far away and then, with a slight shiver down her back, she turned and made her way to inspect the other, adjoining room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Before a tall mirror she paused and looked at herself. Tall and slim, dressed in a severe rather prim black suit of jacket and skirt, white blouse, topped with a black hat. She nodded at her reflection as though satisfied with what she had seen, and then slowly removed the hat which she set down upon a bureau alongside her gloves.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had her hair pulled severely back and pinned into a \u2018bun\u2019, her spectacles hid her eyes well enough to satisfy her. Who looked closely into the eyes of anyone wearing spectacles, one of the worlds\u2019 best disguises and she gave a rather vague smile at herself, before turning to open the door to Mrs Albierno\u2019s knocking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clean bed linen..towels..soap\u2026everything that denoted a respectable well maintained establishment. Mrs Albierno bustled about chatting about this and that, finding out what her new boarder preferred to eat and drink first thing in the morning, late in the evening. Miss Godfrey watched the woman prepare the bed, put this here and that there\u2026.before she asked her if there were any ‘positions’ available in town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI haven’t the means to be idle.\u201d she said in her low sultry voice, \u201cAnd I prefer not to be without work. Is there anything you can suggest suitable to one like myself?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell.\u201d Mrs Albierno frowned, and looked the woman up and down, \u201cThe librarian was saying she would like an assistant. She is a little like you, a single lady, but not so young, nor so attractive.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA librarian?\u201d Miss Godfrey frowned and looked thoughtful, \u201cAnything else?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI cannot think of anything else except a seamstress at Miss Ridley\u2019s ..ah, you do not sew? Well, then, let me think\u2026perhaps secretarial work for Mr Woods, he is a lawyer. I think it could be a demanding job, usually he hires men for the task, but this time, who knows, perhaps he like to have a woman, si?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Godfrey bowed her head in thought, then nodded \u201cThank you, Mrs Albierno, I shall keep those in mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI get you the newspaper, you will find there a list of situations vacant\u2026better you see for yourself I think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She bustled out, closed the door behind her and left the younger woman alone in the room. Miss Godfrey walked again to the window and watched as the washing blew in the wind, then after a few moments she went to her luggage and began the task of unpacking.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The woman on horseback walked the animal into the yard of Adam and Olivia\u2019s home, and then stopped to look around her. Adam\u2019s house was quite like the original Ponderosa ranch but with the addition of the extension in which there was the bathroom, and the enclosed area which was a porch. Peggy sat in the saddle for a while to take in the other buildings before she dismounted and approached the man who was applying ample amounts of grease to the axle of a buggy, the wheel of which was propped up against the corral fence. Nathaniel was climbing up and down the rails while his father worked, although he had stopped doing anything as soon as she had entered the yard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Peggy.\u201d he smiled, and put the pot of grease down with the brush. \u201cYou\u2019re up and about early today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled as she walked towards him, nodded to the little boy who stopped clambering about in order to stare at her and run over to his father who stooped down to swing him up into his arms. \u201cHello Adam, I just wondered if you could help me out today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn what way?\u201d he asked, suspicious immediately, and a slight frown furrowed his brow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, \u201c she drawled out the word as though suddenly coy, which didn\u2019t really suit her at all, so she smiled, \u201cI want to visit the ranch\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Dayton ranch?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes. There\u2019s a place there I hold very dear to my memories of father\u2026and I want to go and see if it is still there and as lovely as I remember it. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see,quite understandable. I’m sure the Greigsons’ would be happy to oblige you.\u201d he slightly narrowed his eyes, looking at her in the morning sun light as though seeing her for the first time and realising that she was indeed an attractive young woman, perhaps favouring Frank Dayton more than her mother, Laura.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI – I feel rather awkward about going there on my own.\u201d she admitted and bowed her head, stared down at the ground and sighed, \u201cI wondered if you would come with me. Perhaps you could talk the owners into letting me ride on their land and – well – you know, just let me indulge my memories for a little while.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam frowned again \u201cI thought you had already been to the ranch, met the new owners?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have, but – that was then, when I had just arrived.\u201d she looked at him, pouted a little, and sighed \u201cI just thought it was such a nice day, and we could talk, about old times and catch up on what we\u2019ve done, I mean, you must remember, Adam, that the last time I came I barely saw you at all. You got home as I was practically leaving for that wretched school in Switzerland.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave a slight shrug of the shoulders \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Peggy, but I have a lot of work to do today. I just can\u2019t take off at a moment\u2019s notice to take you visiting\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked surprised, then blushed very slightly, \u201cI had hoped you would, there\u2019s so much to talk about and I can\u2019t see what other time there will be\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019ll be with Reuben tomorrow when we take you to the caves \u2026if you haven\u2019t changed your mind about that,\u201d he smiled and hoisted Nathaniel higher in his arms, \u201cOf course, it does depend on how long you intend to be here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded and looked around her \u201cWould Olivia come with me\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam again pursed his lips a little then nodded \u201cYou could ask her, I\u2019m sure, if she has the time, she would not object to a trip, but of course, you\u2019ll have to take Spike with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy gave the little boy a quick appraisal and then nodded \u201cIs your wife in the house?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head and pointed to another building \u201cOver there, in the dairy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy turned and said nothing more although she did glance over her shoulder on the way to where he had pointed, and watched as he resumed his task, almost as though she had never come along to disturb him at all. Nathaniel had resumed clambering up and down the corral bars, his voice chattering to his father in the shrill tones of a child.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia was engrossed in stamping the small pats of butter that were lined up in golden mounds upon parchment paper. For a moment Peggy stood there and watched her, noted the scarf Olivia wore to keep her hair from falling into her work, the apron over her skirt and blouse and the intense expression on her face as she concentrated on what she was doing. She appeared to be oblivious to Peggy\u2019s entrance and then, upon, noticing she had to jerk herself from one task to that of accommodating a visitor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh hello, Peggy, I didn\u2019t see you for a moment. \u201c she smiled and glanced at the little pats of butter, \u201cI\u2019ve just finished. Is there something I can help you with?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy stood, awkward, feeling out of place and clumsy, she sighed \u201cAdam said to ask you about a ride out later, I mean, with me in a moment\u2026I wanted to visit my old home, and wondered if you, or he, would like to come with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia sighed and glanced down at her butter, then at the woman standing in the doorway, \u201cI actually have a busy day today, Peggy. I can\u2019t see how I can fit in a trip to your old home. I am sorry. Have you asked Hester?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, of course, but she is going into town with Mary Ann, she said something about work at the Refuge.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh of course, it\u2019s Friday, I forgot\u2026they usually go there on Fridays. I go with Ann on a Tuesday\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded as though she totally understood what the refuge was all about and watched as Olivia turned back to her task of putting the little pats of butter into the paper, but she was feeling self conscious now and after a moment just smiled and wiped her hands on a cloth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose I can stop for a moment. Perhaps you would like a cup of coffee, Peggy? Adam has to leave in a moment but I am sure he will have one before going\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy gave a stiff smile and stepped aside to let Olivia pass by, she heard her call her husband and ask about stopping for coffee, but whatever Adam replied was lost, she could only sigh and slowly turn back into the yard and close the door of the dairy behind her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had fixed the wheel and was wiping his hands on an old cloth, while the boy was running to Olivia with smile of delight on his face, she stooped to pick him up and together they walked into the house. Peggy followed, a rather reluctant companion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In all honesty both women were disappointed when Adam chose not to stop for a coffee but kissed his wife goodbye, assured her the buggy was available should she require it and left the house for work. Olivia gave her guest a rather embarrassed smile before suggesting that she take a seat while Cheng Ho Lee made some coffee or perhaps, lemonade?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is a shame that you chose today of all days, Peggy. I am sorry to have let you down,\u201d Olivia murmured in her soft voice while her eyes never left the other woman\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI should have mentioned it yesterday when we were all together, but it just slipped my mind.\u201d Peggy replied and removed her gloves which she tossed beside her, she shrugged \u201cI hadn\u2019t thought about what to do with my time as carefully as I had anticipated, and I guess it was careless of me not to consider that others have plans of their own to occupy their time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe do live a rather full life,\u201d Olivia murmured, \u201cand you’re right, it is a pleasant day for a ride out too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled her thanks to Cheng Ho Lee and introduced him to Peggy who nodded and smiled before accepting the coffee. While Olivia settled Nathaniel into his chair and made sure he had his biscuit and drink close by, Peggy took the opportunity to look around the room, noting the differences between it and the main room of the Ponderosa ranch house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs this the house that Adam was building when he was going to marry my mother?\u201d she asked as she looked up at the ceiling and noticed the joists that spanned the expanse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia went just a little pink around the collar, and cleared her throat, \u201cI believe so. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was all rather strange to me at the time,\u201d Peggy sighed and gazed down at the liquid in her cup, \u201cEverything changed so much so very quickly that I was quite muddled about it for years. There was another man \u2026but I can\u2019t remember his name and mother won\u2019t talk about him, but I can recall that he was very pleasant and he let me keep the wolf cub.! Adam said I had to give the cub back, and the other man said it would be alright, I remember they fought in the yard but I can\u2019t recall now if it was because of that or something else.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia said nothing, she knew nothing about any of what Peggy was talking about but decided that she would leave the girl to say what she felt needed to be said. Perhaps it was Peggy’s way to find out just what Olivia knew about the past with Laura and this was the best way she could think of that would help.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t like Adam when he said I had to take the cub back. Children can be quite cruel, can\u2019t they? You know, the way they can change their affections so quickly from one person to the next? I remember thinking that perhaps that man was the one mother would marry, and not Adam.\u201d she smiled and her brown eyes flicked up to look at Olivia \u201cI was only 8 at the time, and things fade with time, don\u2019t they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, they do. Sometimes they fade and then drift back but arnt\u2019 quite what they really were, as you say, children get muddled very easily.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t even know what happened to that man now. As I said, mother never mentions him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know anything about it, Peggy. Adam doesn\u2019t often talk about those times. There\u2019s been so much happen in his life since then\u2026.\u201d Olivia turned to check that Nathaniel was behaving himself and then turned back to Peggy, \u201cSo, Peggy, why are you here? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I suppose several reasons really.\u201d Peggy replied rather coyly, \u201cAs I said yesterday I know Maurice Stevens and he asked me to come, to do some more research and to let everyone know what else we have found out about those men whose bodies your son and his friends found. Isn\u2019t it amazing, Mrs Cartwright, how after all these years Maurice is the one who comes here and then sends me along\u2026it\u2019s almost like\u2026fate.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKismet.\u201d Olivia smiled and leaned forward a little to put down her cup into its saucer, \u201cAnd please call me Olivia.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, sorry, I forgot.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They lapsed into silence for a moment, Nathaniel began to chatter, wanting his red wagon and the toy horses so Olivia got up to find them and hand them to him. Peggy watched her and was quiet until she had resumed her seat. \u201cMaurice was quite taken by the Ponderosa, and when he mentioned it one evening when we were at Laurence and Rachel\u2019s, he couldn\u2019t believe that I knew you all\u2026well\u2026sort of knew you all. But then there is the added co-incidence of him being related to Laurence, and of all things, Laurence and Rachel knowing Adam.\u201d she leaned back into the cushions and gave a little laugh, \u201cIt just seemed that I was meant to come here, so Maurice said that I should \u2026so here I am.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI met Laurence and Rachel, they came to our wedding.\u201d Olivia said politely, and smiled as she remembered the young couple, \u201cHe is a wonderful artist. I have one of his paintings in our bedroom.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded and again let her eyes drift over the room, then she sighed \u201cWell, Maurice also wanted me to do some research, to tie up some loose ends regarding this territory. He\u2019s going to write a book about it\u2026.\u201d she picked up a glove and began to toy with the leather fingers, a slight frown on her brow \u201cThe librarian seemed to think that Adam still had a lot of books and documents relating to a search he made into the territory some time ago. It involved Barbara Scott\u2019s uncle I think\u2026.anyway she said that someone got killed and it involved a mystery.\u201d she picked up her cup and sipped more of the coffee, \u201cDo you think Adam would have any books at all that would help me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI couldn\u2019t say, Peggy. But please feel free to look, there are books on the shelves over there,\u201d she pointed to the far end of the main room, and then turned to Adam\u2019s study \u201cAnd there are books in Adam\u2019s study.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWould he mind my looking in there?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI doubt it\u2026\u201d Olivia said and got to her feet in order to deal with Nathaniel who was getting rather noisy, protesting about being in his chair and unable to get down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy sauntered through to the study but kept the door open so that Olivia could see what she was doing. She felt that she was intruding a little upon Adam\u2019s privacy but nevertheless checked the shelves and felt slightly disappointed at finding nothing that would help her in her search. She was rather intrigued at some of the books that graced the shelves but none suited her purpose. She turned to leave when her eye caught sight of a very slim volume on the desk, almost as though it was meant to be found by her. she picked it up and with a slight smile carried it out to the other room in her hand,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t expect to find this in Adam\u2019s study,\u201d she said with a grin, and held out a leather bound book entitled \u201cWomens Temperance Movement” the author was Mark Twain, and had been written in 1873.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded and gave a slight shrug \u201cAdam likes to keep up with what is happening in the world beyond the Ponderosa. As it is he and Mark Twain are quite good friends, and every so often he, Mark Twain that is, will send Adam a first edition copy of his latest book.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t know Adam knew Mr Twain\u2026.\u201d Peggy said quietly as she opened the book and began to scan through some of the pages<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh they had an altercation of sorts when the author was known as Sam Clemens. He and Daniel deQuille were very close friends, it was Daniel who suggested that Sam change his name \u2026\u201d Olivia sighed, and glanced over at the clock, \u201cPeggy, I really have to get back to work. I hope you don\u2019t mind\u2026if you want to look at the other books over there\u2026please feel free to do so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy sighed and stood up, she collected her gloves and smiled \u201cNo, I\u2019ll come by and look another time but would like to keep this one to take back to read. Would you mind?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia made no objection, she had no interest in the book herself and was only too happy that Peggy had found something that would amuse her for the next few hours. They walked out of the house together with Nathaniel running ahead of them eager to climb the fences and show off .<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They watched him for a few moments and then parted, Olivia to her work in the dairy and Peggy to mount her horse and trot it from the yard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 10<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale adjusted her spectacles and patted her hair back into place. She had been busily tidying some books on the far shelves under the \u2018Romantic\u2019 section. For some reason young ladies came in and took them down to browse through and then just put them back any old how before they left the premises. It irritated her enormously. She sighed and folded the step ladder carefully back into place and turned to go back to her desk, only to find a tall younger woman standing there, gazing around as though the library really impressed her while at the same time trying not to appear as though she had been waiting for some time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am sorry,\u201d Miss Tyndale said briskly, and brushed her hands together as though to remove any dust that may have adhered to her fingers from the shelves she had been tidying. \u201cI do apologise. You should have rang the bell on the counter\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s quite all right,\u201d the newcomer smiled, a pleasant smile, \u201cIt gave me time to look around and admire the way you have set the library out \u2026that is, I am presuming, that you are Miss Tyndale, the librarian?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am.\u201d Miss Tynedale replied, feeling a little apprehensive, she bustled to her place behind the counter and cleared her throat \u201cNow, what can I do for you, Miss..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Godfrey, Elizabeth Godfrey.\u201d the other woman smiled, her eyes, behind her spectacles were very blue and twinkled with a little more merriment in them that Miss Tyndale would have liked, \u201cI have come about this advertisement \u2026\u201d she flourished the newspaper and her eyes became serious again, \u201cfor Librarian Assistant. I only arrived in town yesterday but Mrs Albierno showed it to me last night when we were discussing employment here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou are staying at Mrs Albierno\u2019s?\u201d Miss Tyndale\u2019s eyebrows arched above her spectacles and her lips pursed into a slightly more pleasant pout. Anyone staying at Mrs Albierno’s had to be of good character, hardly any need for any further references really.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Godfrey nodded, smiled and waited for Miss Tyndale to speak, \u201cWell, now\u2026\u201d a pause, \u201cDo you have any references? Have you worked in a library before?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNever in a library\u2026\u201d Miss Godfrey admitted with great candour, before she dipped her hand into a voluminous purse and pulled out some envelopes \u201cMy references\u2026\u201d she sighed \u201cI left my last employment to join my fiance, with a view to marriage you understand, but he was killed \u2026in an Indian raid \u2026 I was rather desperate and \u2026.so I came here\u2026.perhaps a little reckless of me, seeing that I know no one at all here but\u2026but life is like that, isn\u2019t it? Nothing ever stays as one would wish\u2026\u201d she whisked out a handkerchief, lace trimmed, to dab at her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale tut-tutted and patted her on the arm, \u201cI quite understand,\u201d she murmured, and of course she did, after all, her chances of marriage had gone up in smoke years ago when her intended disappeared off the face of the earth\u2026not in an Indian raid but with some other woman in a buggy heading to Placerville.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Godgrey sighed and sniffed and waited for Miss Tyndale to read over the letters that contained her references. She glanced around the library\u2019s interior and thought of how long it had taken her to write the references out, different inks, different hand writing, all quite legitimate companies of course, and the names she had used to sign the letters were all good honest people of which she had no doubt\u2026just that she had never worked for any of them. But she knew her Miss Tyndale\u2019s \u2026and was quite sure that there would be no further checks on the references, of the fiance, well yes, there had been one, once\u2026some years ago\u2026but best not to dwell on that just now.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss wiped a handkerchief around the back of his neck and then shook his head, \u201cAin\u2019t no good, this here ain’t gonna move so easy as we thought.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grimaced and shrugged \u201cIt has to go, Hoss, otherwise other drift wood and stuff will pile up around it and cause a dam. Next thing is there will be a flood and we\u2019ll have problems in the low pasture.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded \u201cWe can move it, just means more time and effort, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss waded out of the stream and dripped onto the grass while he took the canteen that Adam offered out to him, after having a hearty swallow or five, even six, he returned it and wiped his mouth. \u201cRight, let\u2019s get down to business. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ropes were unfurled and tied to the branches of the old tree that had fallen across the stream bed. It was a thick trunk, and should not have broken so easily but through the years it had quietly provided shelter for man and beast while inwardly slowly rotting away. When it had fallen during the latest gales it did so majestically, even though no one was there to see it, and when it had landed it had crashed down into the stream that fed the water holes on Jessop\u2019s land and the Ponderosa. Had it been left the Ponderosa would have been flooded during heavy rains, and Jessops land would have gone dry. No one wanted to think of the repercussions that would result from any accusation the Jessops would make, so the matter needed to be dealt with immediately.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The ropes were secured around the trunk and the thickest branches. Adam checked to ensure that they were positioned in the best places to make its removal easiest. Then it was a matter of hauling at the ropes \u2026 and hauling. Then Hoss got back into the water to do some pushing as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s settled too deep into the silt.\u201d Hoss said wading back out again and dripping once more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll use the horses,\u201d Adam suggested, and began to loop his rope over the saddle horn, Joe did likewise, Hoss squelched his way to Chubb II and mounted up and did likewise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It took a while to get the tree to shift, but once it got moving it did so with a swiftness that nearly unseated Joe. It did take time, and plenty of effort but together they hauled it further up the bank, ensured that there was no danger of it rolling back into the stream and resettling there when they had left it. Hoss decided to secure it to another tree with the rope to make sure.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019ll be alright there until I get back to deal with it\u2026\u201d Hoss muttered as he spat into the palms of his hands and rubbed them together, \u201cIt\u2019s not going to take too much time to saw up. Between us we should get it done within a few hours.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll come up tomorrow, \u201c Joe agreed, and looked at Adam who was looking thoughtful and said he had a prior arrangement or had they forgotten. His brothers looked at one another, and Hoss was the one to ask him what had taken him so long to join them this morning anyway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked at Adam to whom the question had been addressed \u201cYeah, we were beginning to think you would never get here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged \u201cI promised to grease the axle on the buggy, it needed to be done before Olivia used it again. Then we had a visitor. Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy Dayton?\u201d Hoss muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know any other Peggy\u2019s?\u201d Adam asked sharply as his brown eyes flicked into his brother’s direction with a definite lack of amusement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWal, since you\u2019re asking there\u2019s Peggy O\u2019Malley who works in the Bucket of Blood and there\u2019s ..\u201d Joe’s eyes twinkled as he looked at his brothers, Hoss smirked but Adam wasn\u2019t amused.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did she want?\u201d HOss asked, seated now on the grass and pulling on dry socks and his boots<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe wanted me to go to Greigsons with her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou? Why\u2019d she want you fer?\u201d Hoss wrinkled up his nose as though smelling something wasn\u2019t rather unpleasant, and, considering it was his socks he was pulling on, he probably was…<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw, I don\u2019t know. I think she forgets that it isn\u2019t right to expect me to go riding around the countryside with her now, she isn\u2019t 8 anymore\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMmm, she sure isn\u2019t\u2026\u201d Hoss sighed \u201cMust be getting old enough to be married herself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd some,\u201d Joe sighed, and slowly gathered in his lasso which he tidied away on his saddle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill you be going to the caves with her tomorrow, Adam?\u201d Hoss asked as he mounted into the saddle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI said I would, I want to make sure Sofia will be all right, I can\u2019t trust the boys to look after her and if anyone is going to get lost, fall down a hole or break a leg, it\u2019ll be her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss laughed at that, as did Joe \u201cYou can say that again\u2026.\u201d Joe chortled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They were still laughing as they made their way homewards, the tree trunk firmly secured against another tree that bent beneath its weight.<\/p>\n

………………….<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At recess Sofia Cartwright and Rose Canaday sat close to The Gang who were excitedly discussing the next day’s adventures in the caves. Rose was downcast at not having been included in the invitation, whereas Sofia was having serious thoughts about the whole thing. As she listened to Reuben, Davy and the other boys discussing the condition of the caverns and tunnels, the dripping water trickling down the rocks, the sounds of echo\u2019s coming from other sources, she realised that, just perhaps, she would prefer to go elsewhere, do something different.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In her imagination she had thought of fairy lights and little grotto\u2019s, a pleasant little stroll through to the large cavern where the dead men had been found. But listening to the boys she was getting an image of a more ghoulish appearance and the thought of trolls and gigantic spiders filled her mind so that the more she listened the rounder her eyes became and the less inclined she was to eat her lunch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere aren\u2019t any dead bodies there now, Sofia,\u201d Reuben said quietly when he realised how pale she was looking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure?\u201d she almost whispered and felt a shiver trickle down her back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if there was,\u201d Davy puffed out his chest in bravado, \u201cThey\u2019re dead, ain\u2019t nothing they can do to hurt us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tommy Conway, having been lectured long and hard by his mother to get all thoughts of Sofia Cartwright out of his head immediately, looked at her and reached out to pat her on the arm, \u201cWe\u2019ll protect you anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia scowled \u201cMy daddy\u2019s coming too, he\u2019ll look after me,\u201d and she withdrew her arm quickly, and looked at Tommy from under her long lashes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy sighed, and glanced away. He thought that Tommy was encroaching on his girl, and was annoyed that he hadn\u2019t spoken up first. He sighed again and turned to Reuben \u201cDoes that lady really know The Prof?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, she said so last night, didn\u2019t she, Sofia?\u201d Reuben didn\u2019t wait for his sister to say anything but told them that Peggy was an archeologist too, and had gone on other digs like The Prof. She knew everything there was to know about dead bodies and where they came from and how they got to where they had \u201cgotten\u201d.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t think girls were allowed in college and learn stuff like that.\u201d Tommy said with a frown, \u201cMy mother says girls should know their place, and it isn\u2019t wearing breeches and doing a man\u2019s job.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy looked at his \u2019opposition\u2019 and laughed \u201cSometimes girls have to wear breeches.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah and Peggy isn\u2019t a girl, she\u2019s a lady\u2026she\u2019s clever and she said that girls are just as good as boys any day.\u201d Reuben said with an emphatic nod of the head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia listened and wondered, she thought of the conversation around the table the previous evening and realised she didn\u2019t understand much of it but did know that Peggy was not the same kind of woman as her mother or Aunt Hester. It wasn\u2019t because of her shape, or colour, she was definitely a woman, but Sofia knew that Peggy wasn\u2019t a woman who would welcome anyone to sit on her knee, or rest her head upon her shoulder. She was – Sofia frowned in concentration – she was all sharp angles and edges, whereas her Ma was soft and curvy, like Aunt Hester. She was still thinking about that when the bell tolled to indicate recess time was over, lessons were awaiting them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She glanced over at Annie Sales who was polishing her spectacles on the hem of her dress. The little girl noticed Sofia looking over at her and smiled as she placed the glasses back on her nose, and Sofia smiled back. Annie was nice, she was soft, and gentle, Sofia couldn\u2019t imagine Annie becoming all hard angles and edges when she grew up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rosie stood up and walked back into the school with Sofia and Annie, she had recovered from her ordeal with Mr Crook, or at least she appeared to have done so. It still intruded upon her dreams at night, but mornings were no longer so terrifying and she didn\u2019t like to talk about it anyway. As she grabbed for Sofia\u2019s hand she whispered \u201cAre you going to morrow with the boys? I wish I could come.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia nodded, yes, that was typical, she was not surprised at all that Rose Canaday would want to explore the caves. In Sofia\u2019s mind she could see Rose wearing breeches and upsetting Mrs Conway and all the other prim ladies in town. She had to think about this matter, she told herself, after all, she was six years old now, nearly seven. She was growing up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre there ghosts there?\u201d Rose whispered now as they entered the classroom, \u201cI bet there are ghosts. I would like to see a ghost, wouldn\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia shook her head, she would no more like to see a ghost than she would like to see the witch who kept looking in the mirror to make sure she was the most beautiful of them all. She wondered what Rose would do if she saw a ghost\u2026 what if it was Mr Crook.? Sofia gave a little grin to herself, somehow she didn\u2019t think Rose would want to see that particular ghost, no, not at all.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was standing by the book shelves with a thick leather bound book in his hands when Peggy stepped inside the big room. He glanced up and raised his eyebrows in surprise at seeing her there, \u201cBack already?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam was – busy.\u201d Peggy replied and looked at Ben with a slight smile on her face, \u201cWhat are you reading?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh nothing that would interest a young lady like yourself,\u201d Ben replied and closed it with a snap, then replaced it on the shelf. \u201cSo, what are you planning to do instead? I could come with you to see the Greigson\u2019s if you would wish, my dear.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy shook her head, firstly she was annoyed at being dismissed about that book, how could Ben know if she would be interested in it or not? And then again, she only wanted to see the Greigsons to get permission to ride on Dayton land, to visit once again those special places she had gone to with her father, and sometimes, with her mother. She couldn\u2019t – hadn\u2019t – planned it in her mind to visit those places with anyone else than Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s alright, Mr Cartwright, I have a book of my own to read. it\u2019s a pleasant day so I\u2019ll read it outside on the porch.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if you\u2019re sure\u2026\u201d Ben murmured and turned to take out the book he had just carefully placed on the shelf. He turned the pages already taking it for granted that she had gone from the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The book was about identifying various diseases in livestock before they ran rampant and wiped out a whole herd. True enough it may not have interested Peggy who had already made it clear she had no time for cows, and it would not have occurred to Ben to have asked her if she would have been interested. Why should he? He had never known any woman apart from Gran\u2019ma Hoag, to be interested in that aspect of cattle raising.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing bustled out and smiled at Peggy \u201cYou want something to drink, Missy Peggy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Hop Sing, some lemonade would be very pleasant.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI go make now, you like cookie too?\u201d his big grin nearly split his face in half, his dark eyes twinkled in his round beaming face and Peggy felt the odd urge to go and hug him. She wondered what he would do if she were to do so, but before she could put action to the thought he had bustled away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She took a seat on the porch and stretched out her legs, and opened the book. It was such a slim volume, and she realised as she opened it that it was not exactly a book in itself but the transcript of a speech* that Mark Twain had made upon the subject of emancipation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It would take no time to read it, she thought, as her eye scanned down the few pages. She wondered why Adam had even bothered to keep it, but it had been signed by the author and addressed to him, which led Peggy to wonder what Adam would have been doing in the year 1873. Hop Sing came and placed a jug of lemonade and a plate of his cookies on the table, she nodded her thanks and turned the page to where Mark Twain began his discourse\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Women’s Temperance Movement*<\/p>\n

by Mark Twain<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Would you consider the conduct of these crusaders justifiable, I do — thoroughly justifiable. They find themselves voiceless in the making of the laws, and the election of officers to execute them. Born with brains, born in the country, educated, having large interests at stake, they find their tongues tied and their hands fettered, while every ignorant, whisky-drinking, foreign-born savage in the land may hold office, help to make the laws, degrade the dignity of the former, and break the latter at his own sweet will. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed and leaned back, rhetoric, that was all it was\u2026not every man was ignorant, seeking to degrade the dignity of every woman they met. She frowned and closed her eyes, that was, she thought, how her mother had described her father, Frank Dayton. Wasn\u2019t it? And wouldn\u2019t Laura have said yes, indeed, that was exactly how Frank had made her feel\u2026tongue tied and fettered \u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Not for the first time she drifted into pondering about how a marriage with Adam would have benefited Laura. She frowned trying to recall the things she had overheard when she was a child, murmurs of criticism about Adam taking over, not giving her credit to do things and not trusting her to invest her money wisely. Her mind trickled on to the relationship Laura had with Will, again not a man who would or could be classed as<\/p>\n

Seeking to degrade his wife in any shape or form. Will knew how to handle Laura, he loved her, he laughed at her and teased her and cajoled her\u2026but knew when to back down, to say \u2018Yes, dear\u2019 and follow her lead. Did that make him less of a man, or more of one because he understood how to handle her. Would Adam have acted like that, laughed and teased and cajoled\u2026or would he have just met Laura head on and said \u2018No, you do it my way or not at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She picked up the book and read on, before setting it to one side and with a sigh wondered about what Mark Twain had hoped to achieve by making such a speech. Certainly it would have had it\u2019s appeal among the more militant women, and she knew that back in college she and her friends would have dissected every word and chewed it over before spitting it back out. She wondered just how aggressive such a situation would become, could become, if men like Twain were speaking in this way. Did she want to become a woman who thought of all men in the way Twain described them\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She thought carefully over his words \u201cwhen the women once made up their minds that it was not good to have the all-powerful ‘primaries’ in the hands of loafers, thieves, and pernicious little politicians, they would not sit indolently at home, as their husbands and brothers do now, but would hoist their praying banners, take the field in force, pray the assembled political scum back to the holes and slums where they belong, and set some candidates fit for human beings to vote for. was this really how all women thought of their husbands, fathers, sons?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sipped more lemonade and her thoughts drifted to Laura\u2026did she and her friends sit around the tea table discussing ways and means to overthrow a Government, in order to gain the vote? Would Olivia Cartwright do so? For a moment Peggy considered Olivia, and decided that the woman was too happy in her marriage to bother even worrying about it. Perhaps though she would encourage her daughter to do so\u2026unless of course Adam were to lay down the law,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A shadow grew over her and looking up she saw Ben standing there blotting out the pale sunlight, he smiled \u201cWell, Peggy, have you learned how to play chess yet?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have, Will says I am quite good at it. I usually beat him two games out of three.\u201d she smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, how about challenging me to a game, huh?\u201d and with a smile he produced the box containing the chess set from behind his back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A challenge..well, what better word could he have chosen. She smiled and nodded, set the book to one side and watched him set out the board and the pieces, beautifully carved pieces. Even as she watched his fingers set out the rooks, the Queen and all the other pieces, she found her self thinking \u201cwhat did Adam find so appealing about Olivia\u201d. of all the women who would be throwing themselves at his feet – and she hated the thought that any woman would – why had he married Olivia. She thought of the last line in Twains speech \u201cfrom the day that Adam ate of the apple and told on Eve, down to the present day, man, in a moral fight, has pretty uniformly shown himself to be an arrant coward.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Perhaps love makes cowards of us all.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Chapter 11<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A pleasing morning dawned over Virginia City. \u00a0 The sky was streaked with pale lines of pink and orange, until they faded into the sky blue of everyone\u2019s expectations.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Storekeepers came out to sweep the floors clean and set out their ware. Amanda Ridley decided to change the display in the windows of the Ladies Emporium.\u00a0 Restaurants and cafes throughout the town opened up to provide breakfasts for those hungry enough to wander through their doors.\u00a0 It was just another Saturday morning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mr Riley and Mrs Riley had an argument, they called it a debate, as to whether or not Davy should go to the caves because he had been grounded the previous few days and letting him go could have been seen as a weakness in their discipline.\u00a0 Davy did the wise thing and kept quiet throughout whilst holding his breath.\u00a0 Thankfully he didn\u2019t have to hold it too long and was told he could go provided he got up to no shenanigans.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs Carstairs was anxious to get to work \u00a0because she was in charge of the window display for Amanda, but she had a few words with Jimmy about being careful and not to pay too much attention to Sofia Cartwright who was, she said, just a little girl after all was said and done.\u00a0 Jimmy knew that anyway but it was the \u2018;after was said and done\u2019 that perplexed him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tommy Conway was told in no uncertain terms that he could not go because he had trumpet practice that morning.\u00a0 He gave in as he always did, he was very young but had learned the wisdom of not contradicting his mother on anything. \u00a0 The last member of the gang, Philip, decided not to bother to go as he hadn\u2019t been with the original gang and the thought of those caves didn\u2019t appeal.\u00a0 He suffered from claustrophobia even if he didn\u2019t know the word for the condition the thought of going into the caverns gave him palpitations.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A young man trudged up the path to Roy Coffee\u2019s house and gave the door a resounding knock.\u00a0 The case and valise were balanced carefully on the doorstep as Roy swung the door open, and with a smile, a nod of the head, welcomed Grant Tombs to his home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEverything settled then, lad?\u201d he said as he reached out to pick up the suitcase.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u00a0 The house has been sold and the lawyers are now haggling over what is loosely referred to as my father\u2019s estate.\u201d \u00a0Grant replied, picking up his valise he followed Roy into the house and sitting room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMake \u00a0yourself at home, Grant.\u201d Roy said as he put down the case, \u201cI want y ou to feel that this is \u00a0your home now, you know that, don\u2019t \u00a0you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grant nodded, \u00a0and removed his hat and jacket, which he placed on the back of a chair. Roy pointed to a chair close to the fire and indicated that he sat down while he too the one opposite him.\u00a0 They both leaned back and stretched out their legs and relaxed.\u00a0 Grant closed his eyes and realised that for the first time in a long time he felt at peace within himself.\u00a0 He looked over at the old man and sat upright,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am grateful for this, sir.\u00a0 I don\u2019t want to put you out at all, but\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou aren\u2019t, it\u2019s – it\u2019s a pleasure.\u201d Roy har-umphed and shook his head, his moustache bristled, \u201cNow then, tell me what\u2019s been going on \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grant nodded and began to tell Roy about his father\u2019s trial, the execution and then the lawyers haggling over the \u2018estate\u2019 in order to work out who and what owned anything at all because Jethro Tombs had had a finger in so many pies that the work was going to take the lawyers months to sort out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother had set up a trust for me,\u201d Grant said quietly, clasping his hands now between his legs, \u201cThe lawyers felt that as she was uninvolved, so far as they could see, I could take it as a gift from her to me.\u201d \u00a0he looked plaintively over at Roy \u201cDo you think she knew what my father was doing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe may have suspected something, Grant.\u00a0 Women usually know if something is not right, but at the same time they have a great ability to lie to themselves.\u00a0 To ignore the obvious in order to keep things stable, comfortable. \u00a0 It\u2019s hard for them to be disloyal as well, if t hey truly love the man they have married.\u201d \u00a0he sighed \u201cI\u2019ve seen it countless times, the excuses they make for their men even after they\u2019ve been battered half to death.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think she knew something, and in a way, she\u2019s guilty by her silence isn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cComplicit, is the word, son.\u201d Roy nodded, \u201cBy saying nothing to prevent a crime being committed one condones the crime\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grant sighed, and nodded \u201cI understand what you mean, but its all over now.\u201d he leaned back again and stared into the fire, \u201cI shall need to get work.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s always something here for a young man to do\u2026\u201d Roy said quietly and with a smile tapped Grant on the knee \u201cNate Carney needs a deputy. \u00a0 You\u2019ve already proven yourself to be a good man to have around when in a tight spot.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think so?\u201d Grant flushed red and blinked behind his glasses, \u201cI guess I could start by enquiring there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou do that\u2026but later on.\u00a0 You need to rest up first and, Grant, stop calling me sir, my name is Roy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth Godfrey adjusted her bonnet and straightened the lapel of her jacket \u00a0before looking again at her reflection in the mirror.\u00a0 Satisfied that she looked every one\u2019s idea of a librarian she quickly left the room, locked the door and sauntered down the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Today Miss Tyndale was going to teach her how to conduct herself in the library.\u00a0 Her induction day was what Miss Tyndale called it.\u00a0 She would learn about the filing, the coding, the tidying and the correct procedure with customers.\u00a0 Elizabeth smiled to herself, she was happy to be working on a Saturday, it meant there were less empty hours stretching ahead of her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She crossed \u00a0the road and then had to step aside as a young woman walked forwards pushing an infant in a perumbulator, an expensive model at that, and as they came face to face she smiled and glanced at the sleeping baby \u201cWhat a lovely baby, is it a girl or boy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA boy.\u201d Alyssia Corby replied with a smile and that note of pride in her voice \u201cHe\u2019s already a month old, time passes so quickly.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIndeed yes, at this rate he will soon be at school.\u201d and Elizabeth laughed softly, her eyes twinkled behind the glasses she wore.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, no doubt,\u201d Alyssia replied with a laugh of her own, \u201cI\u2019m Alyssia Corby, my husband is one of the towns\u2019 doctors. \u00a0 You\u2019re new here, aren\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am, I have just started work at the library as Miss Tyndale\u2019s assistant.\u201d Elizabeth replied \u201cElizabeth Godfrey.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Alyssia nodded and smiled \u201cPleased to make your acquaintance, Miss Godfrey.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth watched as the other woman strode away, and for a moment it seemed that her purpose for being there at that moment was quite forgotten.\u00a0 However, she gave herself a little mental shake, and turned towards the library. \u00a0 She had to agree with herself, that meeting the Doctors wife had been most fortuitous.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel deQuille opened the letter that had been addressed to him and sent from the Smithsonian Institute.\u00a0 There were several pages and as he smoothed them out in order to read them the clerk entered and left a cup of coffee on the desk before sidling back out again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDear Mr deQuille,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As you covered the excavation of the conquistadors recently under the auspices of our Professor Maurice Stevens, we felt that you would be pleased to have an update of our findings which you could publish in your news tabloid for your townspeople.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A number of these men have been identified and returned to their homes and have been subsequently given proper Christian burial.\u00a0 Their descendents were, as you can well imagine, extremely grateful and equally amazed at finding them after so long.\u00a0 Missing links in \u00a0the chain have been restored, blanks in the pages of their family history have been filled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

We were able to find these details with the assistance of the Consulate in Spain, and the authorities in Catalan.\u00a0 Some legends surrounding them have now been confirmed in part, other parts \u2018debunked\u2019 if one can use such a term.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Professor Maurice Stevens has sent, on our behalf, one of his associates, to research into the background of the attack, to see if there are any references in local history that could explain the cause other than that of territorial rights etc. \u00a0 \u00a0This associate, Miss Margaret Dayton, was once part of your community so we are hopeful that you could give her every assistance in her research.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Yours sincerely etc etc\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

DeQuille re-read the letter to ensure he had got the facts right, then scanned through the other pages which gave the names of the individuals that had been identified with a potted history for them. He sighed and slipped it back into its envelope, then leaned back in his chair, picked up the cup of coffee and tried to think about who exactly Margaret Dayton was ..the name certainly \u2018rang a bell.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The three horses waited patiently for their riders to leave the house and mount into the saddles.\u00a0 Sport was only too pleased to have been saddled up, and stood between Max and Buster relishing the early morning sun, \u00a0he tossed his \u00a0head with pleasure when he saw his master walking across the yard with a little girl hanging onto one hand and the boy \u00a0literally skipping along beside them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia was not so happy and glanced a woe begotten face towards the house where Olivia was standing with Nathaniel in her arms.\u00a0 She looked up at Adam and sighed before hanging her head \u201cDo I have to go?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf I hear you say that once more, Sofia, I shall give you a hiding. \u201cAdam snapped, and shook his head, \u201cYou made a promise, \u00a0you can\u2019t break promises just when it suits you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, daddy, \u00a0there\u2019s ..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s enough.\u00a0 I don\u2019t want to hear another word.\u201d \u00a0Adam hauled in a deep breath and looked over at his wife with a \u2018woe begotten \u2018 look of his own on his face.\u00a0 He had \u2018shot himself in the foot\u2019 so to speak by insisting on people – Sofia – keeping promises, the importance of a person\u2019s word being their bond – and now when he was longing for Olivia to say \u201cSofia can come with me etc \u2026\u201d he knew she wouldn\u2019t because of all that he had said at the breakfast table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now he had to tolerate Sofia with her pouts and her moans and her complaints.\u00a0 He leaned down and looked into her face \u201cPeggy will be here soon, give her a smile and make her feel welcome, won\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but \u00a0-\u201d she began but he put a finger to her lips and raised his eyebrows \u00a0in that way that meant it was better to keep quiet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sound of a horse interrupted anything else that could be said and the three of them turned their heads to watch as Peggy entered the yard in the saddle. She had selected Sam again, \u00a0a good strong horse, \u00a0and had dressed very charmingly in her best \u00a0New York bespoke riding habit.\u00a0 Sofia thought she looked beautiful and for a while was silent, her misgivings laid to rest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia watched as the young woman greeted her fellow adventurers, and as Adam swung Sofia into the saddle .\u00a0 Reuben mounted Max easily, he was a good horseman for his age and Max was a steady beast, handsome to look at too..\u00a0 For a moment Olivia enjoyed admiring the appearance of her son and the horse, before looking again at her husband who was mounting up into the saddle now, \u00a0and then at Sofia. Poor Buster, \u00a0he didn\u2019t look very happy.\u00a0 Perhaps horses did chatter among themselves and Sport had told the little pony they were in for a long trek\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The four of them called out their goodbyes and \u00a0Nathaniel\u2019s wails at being left behind followed them out of the yard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 12<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They had had to stop several times on the way to the site of the \u2018dig\u2019 due to Sofia. Although Buster was a gentle beast, mainly because he was so lazy, and Sofia was, for her age, a very capable little rider, the journey was still quite a long one to be undertaken by her. Adam regretted constantly throughout the trip that he had not left her behind, or at least, considered taking the buggy to accommodate them all. There was also the constant complaining by Reuben that The Gang would be there before them, and it wasn\u2019t fair that they had to stop so often. Peggy was a good help at times such as that, perhaps having had brothers to live with had been an advantage after all, but she certainly knew how to handle Reuben and shut him up. As it was the die was cast, and they finally reached the dig just minutes before Davy and Jimmy arrived, followed, to Adam’s surprise, by deQuille in his buggy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy, this is Davy..and this is Jimmy..\u201d Reuben announced proudly, almost, but not quite, puffing out his chest with delight at the sight of his two comrades.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two boys nodded, looked awkward and shuffled about with downcast eyes. Peggy smiled \u201cSo, which one of you was it who fell down the hole and discovered the conquistadors?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Davy glanced up and frowned, then looked sullen for a moment or two \u201cAw, that was Tommy, he fell down the hole and broke his leg. It was me and Reuben found the dead men. We went exploring, didn\u2019t we, Reuben?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nodded and was about to speak when deQuille strolled up and removed his hat, then shook Margaret\u2019s hand \u201cMiss Dayton? I\u2019m Daniel deQuille, I write for the Enterprise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is very ‘enterprising’ of you, Daniel,\u201d Adam said rather cynically, \u201cAnd so early in the morning too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel laughed between gritted teeth, and produced the letter he had received from the Smithsonian, this he showed to Margaret while casting a baleful glare at Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t realise the Smithsonian had been apprised of my involvement,\u201d Peggy said as she returned the letter, and then smiled at the journalist \u201cWell, I suppose we had best get started.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She walked quickly to her horse and removed a folder from the saddlebags. This she flicked through slowly while they stood around waiting. The boys were hopping from one foot to the other wanting to be off, to get exploring, to show Peggy all that they had found and to hear her praise them lavishly for their courage and forbearance. She finally returned and they huddled closer around her once she had found the page she wanted and showed it to the boys.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Maurice had drawn an excellent sketch of the boys standing in the centre of the Tomb of the Conquistadors as he had themed it. Even Tommy had been included although he had not seen it nor been there due to his broken leg. After sufficient exclamations of delight at seeing themselves thus immortalised on paper, Peggy asked them to \u2018lead the way.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia grabbed for her father\u2019s hand, and as her fingers tightened around his, Adam felt rather sorry for his little girl. She had not said a word of complaint on the journey although her face had spoken volumes to her discomfort at times. Now she strode forwards, trying to keep up with everyone else, the boys scampering ahead and calling to Peggy \u201cUp here, this is where we found it, here\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy every so often did pause though, in order to look at the trenches where the men had diligently worked along with Maurice to extract from the earth the fallen treasures of a bygone time. Here the boys would gather around her and gabble on about who found what, and how exciting it had been but impatience showed in their voices, after all their discovery had really been the best of them all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She compared each site with some drawings and notes that Maurice had made so that before too long the boys were getting restless, Sofia was bored, Adam was bored, Daniel deQuille wondered why on earth he had bothered to come at all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They trudged on at last, pass the dug out soil, over the rocks and boulders until they came to the cleft in the rock which Davy proudly pointed to \u201cThat\u2019s where Tommy fell down, and we went down afterwards.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe said he was alright until I landed on him,\u201d Reuben said \u201cBut I don\u2019t believe him, I reckon he broke his leg long before that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt must have hurt him though,\u201d Peggy said in a way that was part reprimand and part reminder that they should not make light of another’s suffering.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Davy ran ahead through the boulders and they followed him, threading their way over the scree and the rocks. Adam every so often lifted Sofia up and swung her high and over the rocks so that she was spared having to scrabble too much. Finally they reached the wider crack in the cliffside, here where the Conquistadors had barricaded the way from their enemies only to die of their wounds, thirst and hunger. Here it was they had lain for some many generations, and as Peggy surveyed she couldn’t help but wonder at the misery they had endured. She turned to look out from the tomb, at the barren landscape of mountain and rocks, sky and cloud…and wondered if it had always looked like that, or had there been a verdant valley at the time, with trees through which they would have ridden, being sheltered from the heat of the sun, or perhaps, the blast of winter blizzards..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis would all have been territory belonging to the Indians who lived here. Imagine that, they could not for a second imagine what was about to happen to change it all.\u201d she said in a low voice, as though only too aware of the fact she was standing in what had been the Spanish soldiers tomb but the first threat of something terrible to befall the local people.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam felt a slight shiver down his spine, remembering a long time back in his youth when a Paiute friend had said much the same thing, but from his perspective, and had become an enemy from that moment onwards as though the realisation of the fact had hardened his heart.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There were not new finds to discover, Maurice had checked and re-checked the location before he had left, but Peggy was enthralled and stood in the centre of the \u2018tomb\u2019 where most of the bodies had been \u2018stacked\u2019 and stared out of the wide cleft \u2026\u201dImagine what it must have been like for them. It must have been terrifying.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey were hardened soldiers, Miss Dayton. No doubt took it as a matter of course.\u201d Daniel muttered and wondered how he was going to spin a story out of this trip.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but there must surely be times when faced with the certainty of their own death, and knowing so little of the type of enemy they were facing\u2026at times like that they must \u2026 feel something.\u201d Peggy glanced now at Adam \u201cYou must have been in similar situations, Adam, surely you understand what I mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was surprised by the question, he had in fact been thinking back to the time his brothers, Mary Ann, and himself were trapped in just such a cavern, with nothing but rock behind them and screaming hostiles attacking them. He could even remember the discussion he had with Joe when realising they were running out of ammunition, and that it would be up to Joe to do \u2018what he thought best\u2018 with regard to Mary Ann.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t speak for them, Peggy. Every man\u2019s different.\u201d he murmured, \u201cBut having come so far inland, perhaps having heard of the treatment these people would have given their captives, perhaps some would have been fearful, some others would have faced it calmly. If I recall correctly the leader of these men was calm enough to write something down in his journal..and put in a chest for posterity.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded \u201cYes, he did. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

DeQuille stepped forward \u201cI recall reading it. He came over as a very brave man.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe was,\u201d Peggy smiled and looked at the boys who seemed to have lost their exuberance \u201cAren\u2019t you going to show me the rest of this place, the tunnel and where you all landed \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With a whoop they were off, running along the tunnels that once had terrified them, with Peggy behind them laughing as they pulled on her hands if they thought she were dawdling. Sofia decided she was going to stay with her Pa and clung to his leg. Adam felt guilt once again, it hadn\u2019t been fair to have brought her along and he looked down at her and smiled, \u201cHow about we go into town and get some ice cream?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Now?\u201d and her eyes opened wide in delight at the thought.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we could go and see Bridie?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Pa?\u201d she didn\u2019t add please, thinking that perhaps that would sound too needy and desperate.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In a way Sofia was a little disappointed in herself. She had thought she would prove to the boys that she was every bit as good as they were, after all, she climbed trees as well as Reuben, and she could fish and she could swim as good as any of them. But here, in this desolate place after such a long ride, she hadn\u2019t felt any enjoyment in it at all, just bored, just tired and wanting to be home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

DeQuille decided that he would follow Peggy and the boys and Adam picked Sofia up and carried her along, telling her that as soon as everyone was finished he would take her to the ice cream parlour and then visit Bridie. If she was disappointed she didn\u2019t mention it, but put her arms around his neck and tried to be as light as possible so that she didn\u2019t weigh too heavily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It had been Davy, ever resourceful, who had put a match to the twists of wood used for lighting. In their smoky glow the men, Peggy and the children entered the hollow into which Tommy had fallen all those months ago, they listened to the sounds of the water gushing down the walls and Reuben said \u201cIt didn\u2019t sound like so much water then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s because it was dry season, the waters from the mountains were drying up, but we have the snow melt of winter now.\u201d Adam said and glanced around him, \u201cBeneath us is a subterranean lake, it\u2019ll be quite full because the water coming down the walls are keeping it so. I should imagine this hollow was created by years and years of erosion by the water that flowed through the mountains.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded, and walked around, touching the rocks and smiling at the boys \u201cI do think you were very brave being in here, and only the light from the sun coming through. You must have been really scared.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Reuben said with a shrug, and Davy shook his head and said he hadn\u2019t been afraid not once, well, only that time when they realised they weren\u2019t \u2018quite alone\u2019. Jimmy wisely said nothing, he knew better, he knew that they had all been scared stiff. He knew because Tommy had later admitted to having wet himself he had been that scared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy listened to the boys talking sometimes all three together so that they were getting words muddled, or in the way of each other, interrupting and getting annoyed, wanting her attention only on them. Sofia whispered to Adam and the whisper was caught by Peggy who turned to look at them\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It caused her to stop thinking of the present moment as the sight of the man with the little girl in his arms caught at her memory and whisked her to the time when he would have held her and laughed and smiled at her. She could remember feeling so safe, so happy. Why had she felt so happy? She looked as Sofia planted a kiss on her father\u2019s cheek, on the way his cheeks dimpled as a result and his hand caressed his daughters hair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Why had she been so happy? Because her father was dead and had left a vast emptiness inside her, a muddled miserable emptiness. Then Adam Cartwright had come along, helped her face that emptiness and had obligingly filled it. And then he had gone too\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy? Peggy?\u201d Reuben was tugging at her hand and demanding attention, so that she looked down at him with a blank look on her face and had to ask him to repeat himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She wanted to get out of there now, she felt hemmed in by the sights and sounds all around her. She saw Daniel deQuille talking to Jimmy and scribbling some notes in a tablet, and Davy swinging his flaming twigs quite dangerously around and around. It was time to go.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia said as they were making their way out of the tunnel \u201cDaddy says we can have ice-cream in town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben whooped with delight, he had found the expedition rather disappointing in comparison to when they had been before, but then there was nothing new to discover, and only so much that one could tell Peggy who had suddenly seemed to have lost interest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel deQuille walked beside the young woman, asking questions and discovering who she was and when she had last been in Virginia City and yes, Frank Dayton had been her father. He had surprised her by saying he and Frank had been close friends, and he had been quite dismayed at her father\u2019s death. It was the first time, so far as she could recall, that anyone had shown any interest at all\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She let Daniel talk, answered his questions and when they stepped out into the open felt relieved when she could watch him get into his buggy and head into town. She turned to Adam \u201cHe was a friend of my father\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, \u201cYes, they were -\u201d he paused and sighed and left it there, but he had nearly said \u201cthey were drinking partners, always staggering out drunk from one saloon or another.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ann Canaday had made her friends laugh when she produced a pair of spectacles and announced that she must be officially old, as her sight was fading and she needed them to help her with her sewing. She perched them on her nose and regarded them with a comical look on her face \u201cGoodness me, Hester, I can see every freckle on your face.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean to say didn\u2019t before?\u201d Hester laughed, she had a good laugh, a kind of hearty snort which made others want to laugh along with her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you just looked like a multi coloured blob with blue eyes.\u201d Ann replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They were at Ann\u2019s home that day, a pleasant day, with the sun shining through the windows. Still quite cold so that after a while of running about outside the children had wanted to come in to play, where it was warm. They now occupied themselves in one part of the big room where many years before a woman whom Ben had loved had been terrorised by a mad man called Gideon who had stolen by crafty stealth from his employer, the crippled bitter shell of a man who had once been Ben\u2019s best friend. On the grounds of the property was the mill that Adam had designed but which was no longer in use, although Ann always said that one day it would be.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The vineyard that Joyce had tended had long since died from neglect, hardy things though they were, but in the Nevada soil they hadn\u2019t flourished without the care Joyce had lavished upon them. They had been ploughed over and trampled upon by the cattle that Andrew Pearson had brought to his homestead, and now no one really remembered the time when Ben had shared snatched moments with a woman picking grapes there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia threaded her needle and smiled at the merriment between the women. It was always calm, always pleasant to be together. She counted herself as well blessed in having these three women living so close and thereby providing needed association for she knew only too well what life was like when totally alone as she had been when a child on the Double D.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ann had no one to make coffee and provide refreshments as the Cartwright women had, and this was something that Olivia appreciated once again, the fact that not many women had such freedoms as they, for life could be very hard for the frontiers woman without the help of a dear Hop Sing, or Lee Sing or Cheng Ho Lee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann was quiet and thoughtful, she smiled and nodded along with them all but it was obvious that something was on her mind. They sewed, chatted and laughed for some time before Ann called for a break in order to make them something to drink and eat. The children would be catered for with lemonade, cookies and the smaller ones were put down for a little nap.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was while they were drinking their coffee that Mary Ann ventured to say that she had been \u2018thinking\u2019.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI thought you had something on your mind,\u201d Olivia said, \u201cYou seemed so quiet today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I was thinking about what had been discussed at table last night\u2026with Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh that sounds interesting, what were you talking about?\u201d Ann asked, smoothing out her skirts and pushing her spectacles further up her nose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“The Emancipation of Women.\u201d Mary Ann announced very crisply as though determined to get the subject out in the open and discussed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Emancipation of Women.” Ann repeated, then frowned \u201cI see.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you?\u201d Hester said naively, and frowned \u201cI don\u2019t, I don\u2019t understand what all the fuss is about at all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHester!\u201d Mary Ann cried, her voice almost a cry of anguish and dismay \u201cWhat do you mean? Of course you know what it is all about\u2026.we talked about it last night.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know it was sort of discussed last night,\u201d Hester said picking up a cookie and nibbling at the edges while her brow puckered still more \u201cBut I couldn\u2019t understand why Peggy was getting so angry by it all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, doesn\u2019t it matter to you at all?\u201d Mary Ann cried, and the cup in its saucer rattled slightly in her agitation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMatter?\u201d Hester shrugged \u201cShould it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course it should.\u201d Mary Ann further exclaimed, and every word sounding as though it were really needing to be underlined for emphasis. \u201cdon\u2019t any of you think it unfair that women can\u2019t vote? That we can have no say in our futures? That we\u2019re dictated to by men and men\u2019s laws?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was met with three women stunned into silence. Ann cleared her throat and glanced at her \u2019allies\u2019 who were both staring at Mary Ann as though the young woman were slowly losing her mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia put down her cup and saucer \u201cI did feel it very unfair that all my rights as an individual owning property and assets would become the possession of my husband upon marriage. I remember mentioning it to Adam that it was a man\u2019s world, and women seemed to come out of it all very sadly.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what did he say?\u201d Ann enquired, always intrigued by anything that went on in the lives of those nearest and dearest to her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe agreed. He said laws needed to be changed and they would be, in time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann shrugged \u201cEasy enough to say while he took over your property and assets.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia looked at the younger woman thoughtfully and then shook her head \u201cHe didn\u2019t, he refused to have them, insisted that my property was mine and I could dispose of it as I saw fit. He had quite an argument with Mr Frobisher about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI thought he would,\u201d Hester smiled, \u201cI didn\u2019t have that problem, having no property anyway. My first husband died with nothing\u2026\u201d she glanced at her cousin, Ann, who nodded in sympathy knowing only too well how harshly the \u2019poor widow\u2019 had been treated by her family.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann straightened her back, \u201cYou\u2019re very fortunate, Olivia. Adam – and the Cartwright men – have a very modern look on things it seems to me\u2026but it isn\u2019t the case with most couples. Having the vote would change things\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow?\u201d Ann wanted to know as she poured another cup of coffee and turned to tell David that no, he couldn\u2019t have another biscuit.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause with our influence new laws would be made, laws that would protect women, protect their rights, give them more independence.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs that what you want then..independence?\u201d Ann now asked and her usually smiling face became rather cold and stubborn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEvery woman has the right to choose for themselves\u2026\u201d Mary Ann countered and Hester muttered that she thought they already did, didn\u2019t they?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Hester, no they don\u2019t, some women are forced into marriages as though it were a business merger, and some women get married to men who – who are nothing short of – well – look at Andrew Pearson for a start.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can if you wish, dear, but Barbara made the choice to marry him. She could have married Adam instead\u2026\u201d Hester said immediately and then looked over at Olivia and whispered \u201cSorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe fact is, we don\u2019t know half of what happens in the lives of other women\u2026\u201d Mary Ann said, \u201cWe\u2019re so well off here, so well cared for and pampered ..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSpeak for yourself,\u201d Ann muttered, \u201cI would hardly say I lived a pampered life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann drew in a sharp breath, she glared at Ann and Hester felt the colour creeping up over her collar, while Olivia began to feel uncomfortable at the way the conversation was turning. Mary Ann straightened her back \u201cI\u2019m thinking of arranging a meeting in town. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat for?\u201d Olivia asked, feeling stupid for doing so but wanting to make sure she had her facts right.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTo talk to the women of this town about the vote, about our rights, about what we have an entitlement to \u2026I want women to know that we have the right to have a say in how the world is run. Can you imagine women allowing that war between states to have ever taken place? Can you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ann rolled her eyes and removed her glasses, she gave Mary Ann a very cold glare, \u201cWhat makes you think that having a woman in charge would have made any difference? Men wept over the carnage every bit as much as women did, and \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey may have wept in the privacy of their homes but they didn\u2019t stop the fighting, did they?\u201d Mary Ann exclaimed bitterly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think.\u201d Ann said very quietly \u201cthat we should stop this conversation. In all the time we have had our sewing mornings we have never disagreed nor argued about anything. Let\u2019s not start now. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not starting an argument, Ann, I\u2019m just stating facts\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFacts as you see them, Mary Ann, but not everyone agrees with you\u2026.and disagreement leads to arguments so please\u2026.lets change the subject, shall we?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann\u2019s shoulders slumped and she frowned as she picked up her sewing \u201cI am still going to have that meeting. I shall ask Peggy to help me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave you discussed this with Joe yet?\u201d Olivia asked gently as she plied her needle and kept her eyes down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not yet.\u201d and Mary Ann frowned at the thought, she wasn’t militant enough to say she wasn\u2019t going to bother asking him, and she loved him too much not to mention it to him, but she didn\u2019t like the idea of having to mention it to him either. \u201cBut I shall.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, good luck to you for that..\u201d Ann muttered ungraciously and stood up in order to collect up the cups and saucers, plates and anything else that needed gathering up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann watched her bear everything away and felt guilty, she knew that back home Lee Sing would do all that leaving her free to continue with her sewing. Perhaps an emancipated woman should not be waited on like that\u2026perhaps she should forego the delights of having Lee Sing at her beck and call.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The rest of the morning dragged \u2026 none of them had ever known a morning like it before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 13<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy had no desire for ice-cream nor for visiting an elderly couple even though the gentleman concerned had been the doctor who delivered her into the world. Perhaps that was another reason for her desire not to visit the Martins, memories of a time about which she really knew nothing and preferred to have it remain that way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But Adam reminded her that he had made a promise to Sofia, and he preferred to keep his promises which comment caused her to flash her dark eyes at him before she nodded and said she would meet him at the library although, of course, she was quite capable of finding her way home alone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Such a response and attitude was not quite what Adam was expecting from her. He stood for a moment regarding her seriously while he told himself that \u2019his Peggy\u2019 had, over the intervening years, disappeared. This new Peggy was self reliant and wanted to be considered independent. Perhaps, he reasoned to himself, the new Peggy had been lying dormant in \u2019his Peggy\u2019 even back then when she had shouted her defiance at him and at her mother. He sighed and bowed his head, sucked in his cheeks before exhaling, then nodded \u201cI\u2019ll meet you at the library.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy suggested a time and then mounted up on Sam, while Adam swung Sofia into the saddle and waited for Reuben to mount Max, the boy trotted his horse up to his father \u201cCan I go with Davy? We\u2019re going to meet up with Tommy- if you let me that is – \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grinned, shrugged slightly and when Davy ran up and asked if Reuben could stay \u2019over\u2019 his heart sunk a little and he frowned, looked at them both severely and told them to behave, no frogs! The two boys grinned at that and Davy clambered up behind Reuben into the saddle while Jimmy Carstairs ran alongside, calling out his goodbyes and with no sign of any rancour at having been the one who had to walk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled and mounted into the saddle and as he passed Jimmy slowed the horse, leaned down and caught the boy around the waist, so that in no time at all the boy was comfortably mounted up in front of the man. The only one not too pleased at this arrangement was Sofia, sadly any overtures to Jimmy by any member of her family was a betrayal to her. After all – Jimmy Carstairs – of all people, riding on Sport with HER Pa! She blushed to the roots of her hair in mortification.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The visit to the ice cream parlour was a success and Adam left the three boys to run off together. Max was taken from nodding over the rail and from there delivered to Ridleys Livery for an overnight stay.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie was thrilled to see them. It had been some time since such an impromptu visit had taken place and when Adam explained the reason for it, she smiled and nodded while leading them into the parlour.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI heard about Miss Dayton. She caused a bit of a stir with some of the ladies in town the other day. Of course it led to some gossip\u2026about yourself and her mother.\u201d she glanced slyly out of the corner of her eyes at him and noticed that slight thrust of the chin as though the man was prepared to do battle for his honour\u2019s sake. She laughed, then became more serious \u201cBut Paul told me of the time when Frank Dayton sent for him to deliver her, it was a difficult labour and there had been concerns that the baby would not survive. That was back when the Daytons ranch was just beginning to flourish.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, those had been hard times, he remembered them as days when he and his brothers were fighting daily battles to keep the Ponderosa from the hands of timber kings, mining organisations and small time ranchers like Frank Dayton. Sofia had ran ahead into the kitchen where Tilly was busy and he could hear her chattering to the Cornish woman, before he looked at Bridie,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI never really knew the Daytons, Frank was always a difficult man but he had a good head on him for business. It was the drink that ruined everything for them.\u201d he sat down, crossed one leg over the other and smiled \u201cHow is Paul?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Realising that her guest was attempting to change the subject Bridie replied complacently enough, and before she could probe for any further details about Peggy, Laura or anyone else Sofia was running in ahead of Tilly who was bearing an overladen tray of refreshments.<\/p>\n

………………<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy was surprised to find a woman of her own age standing at the counter in the library, and for a moment she wondered what had happened to the grim looking woman she had met before. This other person looked completely at home in the library setting, however, with her blonde hair caught severely into a bun at the back of her head, and the glasses perched on the tip of her nose. She held a few books in her hand and was noting down their titles and authors into a ledger on the counter. It took her some seconds to realise she had a customer and when she looked up she gave Peggy a very sweet smile,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs there anything I can assist you with?\u201d she asked in a voice that was soft and what Peggy would call \u2019accommodating\u2019.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave you any modern books on emancipation for women?\u201d Peggy replied and realised that her voice did not sound accommodating at all. It was brisk and efficient, and for some reason she felt somewhat embarrassed by it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, certainly.\u201d Elizabeth Godfrey continued to smile at the other young woman and turned to lead the way to the area where some books were set upon a shelf among the romances. \u201cNot many – just yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded, and stepped forward to view them, then sighed, she had already read them all. She reached out and picked one, after all, it never did any harm to see what points she may have missed in her first reading. She knew for a certainty she wouldn\u2019t find any books on the subject at the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked at Elizabeth to see what reaction her choice would have made, she anticipated that had it been the older woman there would have been some tutting and shaking of the head and mutters of reproach, but Elizabeth didn\u2019t react at all. She just turned her back and returned to the counter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy handed the book over to be stamped, and to have it returned which it was with a smile, and a twinkle in the blue eyes \u201cAntoinette Blackwell* was the first ordained mainstream Protestant minister, did you know?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy blinked, no she hadn\u2019t known that, although she had rather liked some of the quotes attributed to Miss Blackwell, especially \u201cNature is just enough; but men and women must comprehend and accept her suggestions.\u201c \u201cThe sexes in each species of being… are always true equivalents – equals but not identical.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked down at the book in her hand now and frowned at the title. What would Ben think at seeing it gracing the low table in the big room \u201cThe Sexes Throughout Nature.\u201d* it was enough to make her blush at the thought and that made her uncomfortable because it indicated that she was not \u2018militant\u2019 enough for her own \u2018sisterhood\u2019.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you ever read Mark Twain\u2019s speech about the Emancipation Movement?\u201d she said quietly as she turned the book over and over in her hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I have not.\u201d Elizabeth smiled \u201cBut you might enjoy reading Marie Howland\u2019s * books although her writing is more involved with changing society into a more utopian world.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you have it here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot at present, but when it comes back in I can set it aside for you.\u201d Elizabeth’s smile widened and Peggy frowned slightly, thanked her and left her standing at the counter, the smile still on her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam wasn\u2019t waiting for her as she had anticipated but she did see Reuben and the other two little boys running along the sidewalk laughing and \u2018whooping\u2019 as little boys are prone to do when free to do what freedom from adult supervision permitted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She strolled slowly along stopping every so often to look into shop windows and it was while she was thoughtfully considering the purchase of some new boots that she could see Adam\u2019s reflection approaching her. He was on the opposite side of the road, and she watched as his image grew larger in the glass the closer he came.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry to be late,\u201d he muttered with a wry grin,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Sofia?\u201d she asked glancing up and down the street for a glimpse of the little girl.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, she\u2019s staying over with Bridie and Paul, they\u2019ll bring her home tomorrow. I think she found the ride to town a little longer than anticipated. The Martins will bring her home in the buggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI remember Dr Martin\u2026\u201d Peggy conceded to say, after turning to walk alongside him to where they had left the horses, \u201cHe came to attend on mother quite a few times.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI believe he did.\u201d he nodded thoughtfully, from what Paul had said he had been quite a regular visitor to the Dayton ranch, and he remembered now the number of time Laura had \u2018suffered\u2019 severe headaches, although his guess back then was that most of them were excuses so that she could avoid doing something. He sighed, and looked at her, \u201cDid you find what you were looking for?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She glanced down at the book in her hand and shrugged \u201cI\u2019ve read it before, but they don\u2019t have much in the library about emancipation of women.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure it won\u2019t be long before the shelves will be sagging under the weight of the books that will be written on the subject \u201c Adam murmured with enough cynicism in his voice for Peggy to bristle, and her lips went tight and she straightened her shoulders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, good.\u201d she said abruptly, \u201cAnd I hope it will be very soon too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Realised she was offended and not really taking the matter as seriously as he should Adam grinned, \u201cThe question is, will they be read?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked at him with ill concealed rancour, and then shook her head \u201cOf course they will. Every woman in this country will be reading them, even here in Virginia City.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grimaced, raised his eyebrows and decided to say nothing more. They reached the horses and mounted into the saddles, Buster was on a leading rein, and trotted obediently behind Sport, tossing his head and frisking his tail, free from carrying any burden upon his back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They rode for some while in silence, there were birds singing and the breeze was soft as it drifted past them. He looked at her \u201cRemember riding along here when you were little, Peggy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes., You let me win the race\u2026\u201d she smiled at the memory.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh yes, but then I was trying to get you to be my friend.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She laughed at the memory and glanced at him, \u201cYou helped me face my fears\u2026.you made me realise I couldn\u2019t hide from them all my life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He said nothing to that, but looked resolutely ahead, the reins loose in his hands and Sport, knowing his master so well, loping along at a comfortable pace. Peggy sighed and glanced at him \u201cI never thought you would leave the sea.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTo be honest, neither did I?\u201d he smiled slowly, not a smile that reached his eyes which remained dark and fathomless.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy did you go to sea, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy grand father would say because it was calling my name\u2026.\u201d he looked at her, then gave that slight roll of the shoulders that did for a shrug and reminded her that he was a big man, broad in the shoulder, very masculine. \u201cBut I wanted to get away \u2026a lot had happened in my life and I guess, in a way, I needed to -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRun away from it all?\u201d she said sharply and he looked at her with his dark brows drawn together<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I faced up to it all, everything \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid that everything include what happened with my mother?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He cleared his throat, pursed his lips and was silent for a while. She swallowed a gulp, \u201cI\u2019m sorry, that was rather impertinent of me. I had no right to ask.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, that\u2019s alright, after all, you were part of it all. It must have been confusing for you, a lot happened in your young life back then\u2026 \u201c his voice trailed off, perhaps he had never thought of it before, how the adults decisions could have affected the little girl. He sighed \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Peggy. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His voice was deep and sincere, the hurt for her obvious and she felt the colour mount her cheeks. She bowed her head and \u201cWhat for?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, for the way things turned out for you. I mean -\u201d his brow creased as he tried to think of how a little girl would have felt in her position then \u201cYou went to school thinking along the idea that your mother and I would marry -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou would be my Pa.\u201d she smiled, briefly lost in the favourite memory she possessed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d he nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen, when I came home – not to the Ponderosa but back to the Dayton ranch, Will was there, with my mother.\u201d her voice hardened, she almost flinched.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, he could imagine it now, and he shot a quick glance over at her, to see her tense face, the tight lips, the pain of recollection. He turned his face back to the road. \u201cBut you did like Will, didn\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but not as my father.\u201d she sniffed, alarmed at the tears that filled her nose, her eyes. She looked away at the trees until she her eyes cleared, were under control, then she was able to face the road again and jog along beside him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t know what to say now, he thought of Sofia and Reuben and wondered how they had felt, then remembered Reuben\u2019s hostility even though the transition from fatherless boy to adopted son had been relatively pain free. He bowed his head slightly and lowered his hat, beside him Peggy remained silent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo, anyway, did what happened with my mother – did that cause you to go to sea?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her voice wasn\u2019t overly loud but apart from the sound of the horses hooves upon the hard packed ground there had been no other sound for some minutes. He cleared his throat again \u201cNo, it wasn\u2019t. It was a choice I made because I had reached a stage in my life when I wanted a new direction, new challenges.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou wanted to be independent?\u201d she surmised and when he nodded, chuckled even, she allowed herself to relax. \u201cBut now you\u2019re back, married, with children\u2026independence gone,.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded, and again looked at her before turning away \u201cI may have stayed at sea, renewed my contract if it hadn\u2019t been for Olivia. I love the Ponderosa, and there were times when I longed to be back \u2026 but I didn\u2019t feel there was a need for me here, things were changing as well, still are I guess.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNature doesn\u2019t like a vacuum\u2026society doesn\u2019t either,\u201d Peggy said quietly, \u201cIt has to move on or it stagnates.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She wasn\u2019t expecting an answer and was therefore not surprised at not receiving one. She wanted to tell him how it had felt when she had returned home that day, seen Will and Laura together, her crying for him, Adam; her longing to be with him, to have him as her daddy. She had stopped trusting from that day on, just went through her life doing what she was told and feeling impotent to change a thing\u2026after all, her weeping and crying and begging hadn\u2019t changed matters back then. Her Daddy, Frank, had never come back to her life, and Adam – had walked away from her, and now here he was, married with children of his own, and probably never having thought of her since the day he had last seen her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Peggy?\u201d he turned to her, smiled and waited for her to speak.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you miss me? I mean, when Mother went with Will – I never really saw you after that – you never came by -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt wouldn\u2019t have been kindly to have done that, Peggy. Your mother and Will had to make their own lives\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but what about me? Where did I fit into it all?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sighed and hunched his shoulders as though preparing to take on the full responsibility of her anguish. \u201cYou were – are – Laura\u2019s daughter, I had to respect what she wanted, and she didn\u2019t want me in your life. It wouldn\u2019t have been fair to Will, she wanted you to have a close relationship with him, as your father.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do care for Will, he\u2019s a good man, and he has been a good father to me\u2026\u201d she paused, and sighed \u201cbut I missed you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI missed you too, Peggy.\u201d he turned in the saddle then and stretched out his hand to her which she seized hold of with eagerness borne of love, and then he released her fingers as though the neediness of them sent off alarm bells in his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It took a while before they spoke again, it was Peggy who opened the conversation by saying she had forgotten to bring the book with her, the one she had borrowed,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll return it tomorrow.\u201d she said, and when he didn\u2019t answer, appearing deep in thought, she asked him what he had thought about Mark Twain\u2019s speech.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t like it.\u201d he replied simply<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t?\u201d she answered as though amazed \u201cBut don\u2019t you think it unfair that women don\u2019t have the vote, that they\u2019re considered as second class people, that they have no rights on how their lives are dictated to by the laws made by men.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t say what my opinion was about emancipation, Peggy, just on Twain\u2019s speech. I didn\u2019t like it. I didn\u2019t like the disrespect he showed some, nor the way he wrote about them. I felt that he was -\u201d he frowned \u201cI felt he was getting on board what he knows will be a very important matter in the lives of people very soon. His rhetoric was that of a rabble rouser, and he will stir up support from the more militant women – and some men – as a result, and I didn\u2019t like the aggression and tone of his speech.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She thought for a moment \u201cBut what about you? What do you think about it\u2026? Do you think women should get the vote?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do. But then I also think Indians should have that right too, and the Chinese and the Black Americans. I think It\u2019s wrong that Indians can\u2019t go into a saloon and drink alongside me, and I think it\u2019s wrong that a whole nation of people should be considered unimportant and unworthy despite their working themselves to death and contributing to the wealth and strength of this nation. Lincoln made a promise when he said all men were created equal\u2026which, let me remind you is a statement made repeatedly in scripture \u2026.but it seems society doesn\u2019t accept that viewpoint. It will always be divided, Peggy. Whether on female emancipation or rights for the Indian, Chinese and Black\u2026and even when you have got the vote…which I believe will happen one day\u2026opinion will still be divided. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut -\u201d Peggy paused, blinked and frowned, then decided it was wiser to be silent. She needed time to consider exactly what he had said, to mull it over as the saying goes. After a while she ventured to say that he had more or less said what Mark Twain had written in his speech at which he laughed and shook his head<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps, but I said it nicely.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She laughed then, odd how easy it was to laugh with him, even on serious matters\u2026and then there they were, turning into the yard of the Ponderosa. There was Hannah and Hope playing with the hoop, round and round they ran, and Hester was standing on the porch watching them, holding a basket of dry washing which rested upon her hip, a slight smile playing about her lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 14<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel was playing by the water trough.\u00a0 Some while back he had found some wooden toy boats that Adam had carved for Reuben, \u00a0complete with little masts and sails, and these he was \u2018sailing\u2019 on the water, creating little waves with the splashes of his hands, fingers splayed out like the starfish that can be found on the beaches.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked up over his shoulder when he heard the sound of a horse entering the yard and beamed with delight at seeing his father riding in on Sport with Buster loping along behind. \u00a0\u201cDaddeee\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam dismounted quickly so that he could catch the little fellow and swing him skywards and then drop him onto Buster\u2019s saddle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBin good, daddy\u201d Nathaniel said hugging hold of Adam\u2019s neck for a second before clutching a grab at Buster\u2019s mane while Adam took the leading rein and walked the horse round and round the yard. Sport ambled off to the trough to guzzle some water while nudging the boats out of the way with his nose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia came from the back of the house with a clutch of spring flowers in her hands, she smiled at the sight of them, Nathaniel in the saddle with his face beaming with delight, a smile as wide as there possibly could be while Buster trotted through his repertoire of walking, loping, and Adam controlling the reins while laughing encouragement at his son. \u00a0 Then she realised that there were two children missing and promptly approached, telling herself there was no need for anxiety, Adam wouldn\u2019t be looking so happy or relaxed if there were any cause for concern.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI riding, Mommy\u201d the little boy said, and then put out his arms to Adam \u201cNo more \u2026come down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swung his son down but held onto him while he took Buster to the corral fence to leave him with Sport. \u00a0 Olivia was by his side before he had finished and he smiled to put his free arm around her waist, \u201cIt seems Davy asked his folks if Reuben could stay over, and -\u201d he looked at her like a little boy hoping his excuse would wriggle him out of trouble \u201cas I don\u2019t think Reuben enjoyed his excursion to the caves as much as he had hoped – I said he could.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled and kissed his cheek, \u201cWell, that accounts for one, what about the other? Where did you deposit Sofia?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He pulled a contrite face and gave a slight shrug \u201cI left her with Bridie.\u00a0 To be honest I should have realised that the ride would be too much for a little girl.\u00a0 It\u2019s some distance and she was tired by the time we got there.\u00a0 She wasn\u2019t very impressed by the caverns, and I think there was too much talking and not enough action for her. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe was bored?\u201d \u00a0Olivia laughed, served the little minx right sometimes the grass is not greener on the other side after all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,” he laughed then, and dropped a kiss on her cheek, “She certainly was that alright.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They walked into the house, his arm around her waist while the child clung round his neck.\u00a0 She leaned into him, her body warm and fitting so well into the shape of him, her \u00a0hands occupied with the flowers. \u00a0 \u201cAnd Peggy?\u00a0 Was she alright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy?\u00a0 Yes, she was happy enough.\u201d he set Nathaniel down and watched the child scamper away back out side, back to the boats.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI get the impression that she\u2019s changed a lot\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, \u00a0she\u2019s no longer a little girl.\u00a0 Nor the changeling child she was when she came here before\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded, it was a general remark, it didn\u2019t give her any idea of his feelings for the young woman now, this new Margaret Dayton.\u00a0 She disengaged herself from his embrace and walked towards the kitchen where she could find a vase to put the flowers.\u00a0 Sure enough he followed her, went to the sink and got some water to drink.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They hadn\u2019t discussed Peggy or her conversation from the evening at the Ponderosa.\u00a0 It seemed to Olivia that there should have been some conversation about it, about Peggy and her visit, the reasons she was here, but Adam had said nothing.\u00a0 For his part Adam hadn\u2019t really wanted to discuss Peggy and her emancipated views or her effect on the rest of the family.\u00a0 He had been rather dismayed at her aggression, \u00a0while at the same time more than pleased that she was not like Laura.\u00a0 He had recognised Frank\u2019s more pugnacious personality coming through, but hadn\u2019t that always been there, after all she had been the little girl who had screamed out her hatred to her mother, her longing for her father\u2026she hadn\u2019t exactly hidden away her feelings but met them head on. \u00a0 All except being able to accept her father\u2019s death. \u00a0 She had hidden that away, from herself more than anyone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He set down his glass and turned to watch as Olivia busied herself with the flowers.\u00a0 They were bright and colourful, a splash of blues and whites and yellows.\u00a0 He wondered now what Peggy thought about Olivia, his choice of wife. \u00a0 While he thought that his wife was actually wondering what they had been talking about, Adam and Peggy, on that long ride home from the caverns.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy was wanting some books\u2026\u201d she said quietly, \u201cshe thought you may have some, from the time you were researching about the territory.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She hadn\u2019t turned to look at him, and Adam sighed and leaned against the sink and folded his arms across his chest, and she felt the colour mounting above the collar of her dress as she became aware of his watching. \u00a0 She turned her head and smiled, and his responding smile and the twinkle in his eyes prompted her to leave the flowers and walk over to him, put her arms around him and when his arms wrapped around her she sighed, \u00a0leaned into him and raised her face to his\u2026it was strange how she needed this reassurance, \u00a0his arms and lips now, \u00a0just to make sure that he really was heart bound to her, that no one could take him from her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d he whispered as he broke away from their kiss, \u201cWhat\u2019s worrying you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could see the concern in his eyes, the dark pupils dilated and making his eyes seem black, \u00a0the brows furrowed as though anxious \u2026and she wanted to say \u201cPeggy. She concerns me.\u201d \u00a0but she couldn\u2019t, it seemed – she shook her head \u2026it seemed so pathetic. \u00a0\u201cNothing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere is though.\u201d he caught at her hand as she turned to leave him, and forced her to stay by interlocking his fingers behind her back, \u201cYou\u2019ll have to stay here until you tell me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She laughed then, not a forced laugh and she was glad about that, he would have noticed, but it was a completely natural laugh that made him smile, \u201cYou are a brute, Adam Cartwright. I don\u2019t know why I love you so much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause I love you, even more.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She wrinkled her nose teasingly and shook her head \u201cNo you don\u2019t, you can\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do.\u201d \u00a0he looked at her again, reassuring and gentle, as were his lips when they met hers and kissed her so gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She wondered then \u2026 had he kissed Laura like this?\u00a0 Had he assured Laura that he loved her more than anything in the world?\u00a0 Did he love Peggy then as much as he said he loved Sofia\u2026? \u00a0 \u00a0 She saw the look of puzzlement on his face and felt ashamed of her own thoughts, \u00a0and was n\u2019t surprised when the fingers unlocked and released her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSeriously, Olivia, you will tell me if there is anything wrong, won\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course I will.\u201d \u00a0she replied and gave a slight shrug as she passed the table, picked up the vase of flowers and carried them from the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam watched her walk away and bowed his head in concentration.\u00a0 It was unlike her to \u00a0be like this, to act so – edgily – and he sighed and wished he could understand the way a woman thought, felt\u2026he shook himself out of his contemplation and strolled into the other room where Olivia flashed a smile at him, and he asked her \u00a0what it was she was saying about Peggy?\u00a0 About some books?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe wanted to know if you had any books about the Indians who had lived here before, who would have been \u00a0here at the time the Spanish Conquistadors had ridden in\u2026. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded \u201cOf course, she would remember about that, \u00a0it was when I was a school teacher for a mere few weeks\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A touchy subject, and she wished she had n\u2019t reminded him of it, \u00a0another reason for his brow to furrow and that dark cloud drop over his face, after all his research had caused calamity for more than one. The last of a tribe had been murdered, \u00a0a prominent man had been found wanting!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe didn\u2019t find any in your study but took \u00a0that small booklet that Mark Twain had sent you about Women\u2019s Emancipation.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded \u201cI thought she would find it interesting\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t like it when I read it\u2026\u201d she murmured.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI remember you saying so, but then I didn\u2019t like it either.\u201d \u00a0he smiled and was leaning against the bureau, \u00a0\u201cI told Peggy today, \u00a0I didn\u2019t like the aggressive way Twain uses words to exploit a cause.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think that is what he does?\u00a0 Did Peggy agree with you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know Sam Clemens, \u00a0the man behind Mark Twain\u2026. \u201c he smiled slowly and was about to speak when there was a noise from the doorway<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ezra stood there with a very wet wriggling little boy under one arm\u2026\u201dI jest fished him outa the trough.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now that he was safe indoors \u00a0and mother was close by Nathaniel found his voice\u2026he began to bawl .<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy wasn\u2019t too sure what to think as she had watched Adam ride out of the yard as though he had delivered a parcel and mission accomplished was now free to ride away.\u00a0 He had waved a hand as he had turned at the stable \u00a0and disappeared from sight.\u00a0 The little girls had run over to her for attention and Hester had remained there watching, \u00a0then had asked her how the afternoon had gone.\u00a0 Had Reuben and his gang showed her everything she needed to see?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think I disappointed them rather, \u201c Peggy replied after dismounting from the horse and smiling at the girls as they hopped from one foot to the other, impatient for her to join them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHannah.\u00a0 Hope.\u00a0 Enough now\u2026let Peggy \u00a0alone \u2026\u201d Hester shook her head, tried to look fierce but the smile on her face denied the fact, she invited Peggy into the house with \u201cYou must be tired, come and have something to drink, \u00a0and tell me how your day has gone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy pulled off her hat which she dropped onto the bureau by the door.\u00a0 She paused to look at the picture \u201cI don\u2019t recall seeing this before?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour friend, Laurence, \u00a0painted it for Ben, it\u2019s a place on the Ponderosa of special significance to him, to Ben I mean not Laurence.\u201d \u00a0she smiled and Peggy realised she was getting to quite like Hester, she was uncomplicated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stood and admired the picture a little longer before following Hester into the kitchen, Hop Sing was there and nodded, \u00a0insisted he would make the coffee and put away the washing\u2026Hester relinquished both tasks with a smile and as she walked out of the room into the sitting room said in a low voice to Peggy \u201cThere\u2019s no point on insisting that I do it, \u00a0he knows, and I know by now, that he does everything much better than !.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was said in just loud enough a whisper for Hop Sing to hear, and Peggy saw from the twinkle in his eyes that the old man had heard, and appreciated the compliment, which, given in any other way, would have embarrassed him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think Reuben and his gang were wanting me to find some more bodies,\u201d she said as she slumped most unladylike into a chair, \u201cBut they don\u2019t realise the interesting bit about archaeology is what comes after the bodies are found\u2026the real research, excavating if you like\u2026but that\u2019s pretty boring stuff for them, they much prefer the excitement and even horror at finding bodies.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester thought for a moment and then smiled \u201cI know what you mean \u2026. one can create stories on what is found, and then upon looking into the background discover a much more uninteresting story.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded and was about to agree with there was a knock on the door, \u00a0Hannah ran inside followed by Hope who declared to them that there was a man outside\u2026Hester stood up and Hannah said in her squeaky voice \u201cNo, \u00a0Mommy, he didn\u2019t want to speak to you, he wanted Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two women looked at one another in surprise \u201cBut no one knows I\u2019m here..\u201d Peggy said in a baffled tone of voice as she got out of the chair and made her way to the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel Greigson stood there, hat in hand and a smile on his face. \u00a0 He was smiling not at her but at his surroundings, \u00a0the solid looking buildings, the corrals, the horses, and with a look of appreciation that was without envy. \u00a0 Peggy cleared her throat as though to remind him she was now present,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Mr Greigson\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now he turned to look at her, as though he hadn\u2019t expected her to be there after all.\u00a0 He nodded, his smile broadened, took on a different shape, \u00a0his eyes lingered a little longer than necessary upon her face \u201cMiss Dayton.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She waited for him to speak, \u00a0he waited for an invitation to step inside but as it was not her home she had no intention of doing any such thing. \u00a0 She stepped towards him, her chin jutted out and her eyes wary,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Mr Greigson, what can I do for you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled then, nodded \u201cThere\u2019s a dance on at the Town Hall next weekend\u2026.wondered if I could take you, be your escort.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She hadn\u2019t heard about any dance, \u00a0no doubt Hester could tell her more about that, \u00a0and she didn\u2019t know this Greigson so why go with him, and as for an escort\u2026.she cleared her throat<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you for asking, \u00a0but I know nothing about a dance next weekend, and -\u201d she frowned, \u201cI really don\u2019t know you .<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNext weekend would be a good time for you to get to know me better then, wouldn\u2019t it?\u201d he smiled, his eyes twinkled.\u00a0 He was a really good looking man, \u00a0and a very masculine looking one at that, \u00a0but Peggy \u00a0just shook her head and cleared her throat a little more,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t even know if I\u2019ll be going. I\u2019m here to work, not to socialise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA shame. \u00a0 You know what they say, \u00a0all work and no play\u2026.\u201d he winked at her, and then turned away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For some reason she remained standing there watching \u00a0him as he walked to the horse, mounted up and when he turned to look back at her she was annoyed that he would have seen her there so with a toss of her head, turned her back and went inside the house, \u00a0slamming the door shut behind her<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 15<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester was standing close behind her, holding Erik in the crook of her arm and looking thoughtful, but she smiled when Peggy turned to face her \u201cWas that Abel Greigson?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was.\u201d Peggy replied, hoping that there was no indication of that creeping blush that sometimes crept over her neck, \u201cHe asked me to go to the dance on Saturday.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWith him?\u201d Hester\u2019s eyes widened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, with him!\u201d Peggy looked at Hester as though she were half witted, hadn\u2019t she just said the man had asked her to the dance, she shook her head hoping to brush her belligerance aside \u201cWhen I mentioned Greigson the other evening, I didn\u2019t sense any great enthusiasm for them as your neighbours. Have they caused trouble at all?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTrouble? Oh \u2026no, not really. They\u2019re just very private people.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester strolled back to her chair and sat down, Erik on her lap, nuzzling into her and looking heavy eyed with sleepiness. She stroked his back and watched as Peggy gathered up her hat and the briefcase she had carried with her, and wondered why the woman had to look so determinedly angry all the time, even now her pretty face was wearing a scowl.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI had forgotten about the dance -\u201d Hester said brightly as Peggy turned to the stairs, \u201cOn Saturday. I had forgotten about it, otherwise I would have mentioned it to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt doesn\u2019t matter, I wouldn\u2019t have been going anyway., especially with him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not ? He seems pleasant enough.\u201d Hester glanced down at Erik and noticing he was now asleep settled him down onto the chair with a shawl over him, she straightened her back and turned to the other woman \u201cAnd it is the first time he has ever been here. In all the years he has lived at the Running D ranch he has never stepped a toe over our boundary line.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not? I mean\u2026why hasn\u2019t he been here, they\u2019re your nearest neighbours arnt\u2019 they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, apart from Joe and Adam of course.\u201d Hester\u2019s eyes twinkled then, and then she sighed a little and waited for Hop Sing to leave the refreshments on the low table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy had forgotten about the coffee and as the aroma drifted over the room she sighed and turned back to the chair she had abandoned when Greigson had arrived. She sat down and put the case and hat on the floor, while she accepted the coffee cup Hester handed to her, \u201cWhy are they so unfriendly? Any particular reason?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, it isn\u2019t just with us, Mr Greigson – father – is just a bitter surly old man.\u201d she frowned and Peggy could see from the expression on Hester\u2019s face that she was wondering if that was too harsh a description, she sipped her coffee and waited for Hester to continue \u201cSome years back Mrs Greigson became very ill. It was a lingering illness and we all offered help in various ways but were always rebuffed. Then she became seriously ill and Mr Greigson went to town for a doctor – Abel was not home then, not sure where he was to be sure – . Unfortunately Mr Greigson was unable to get the doctor he wanted. He wouldn\u2019t have Jimmy -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJimmy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJames Chan. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause Jimmy is Chinese, and Mr Greigson refused to have him help his wife, he insisted on Paul coming out. Well, of course that was unreasonable at the very least, even if he had legitimate reasons to refuse Jimmy there were other doctors he could have searched out but -\u201d Hester shook her head and some copper red curls bounced loose of their pins as a result, \u201che waited so long for Paul to return from his calls that by the time they returned to the ranch, Mrs Greigson was dead. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s sad. Poor woman, to have died alone\u2026\u201d Peggy put down her cup, \u201cAnd he\u2019s taken it out on the town ever since?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, perhaps he\u2019s really punishing himself. Hoss says that they both keep the ranch immaculate and their cattle are good sound stock. Abel is courteous to a point, but only to a point. As I said this was the first time I\u2019ve known him step foot on the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy shrugged and then stood up, \u201cI\u2019ll just go and tidy up if you\u2019ll excuse me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll bring up a jug of warm water for you,\u201d Hester said and stood up also, then watched as Peggy picked up her belongings and went upstairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By the time Hester brought in the jug of water Peggy had changed her clothes into something more attractive than a riding outfit. She was pulling a comb through her hair, and staring into the mirror with a frown still on her face as she thought over the days events. There were several matters during the course of the time that had not gone according to plan and she mulled over them and over in her head, making the whole of them worse than they actually were.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester knocked and took the jug of water into the room, a clean fluffy towel draped over her arm. She smiled at Peggy \u201cYou look prettier than ever, Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The younger woman grunted a comment and gave a slight shrug of the shoulders, then thanked Hester who had turned to leave the room having placed the jug and town on the marble topped console. There was only one framed photograph in the room, the one that Peggy had obviously considered worthy of being set down by her bedside. A smiling face, handsome, dark haired\u2026 Hester looked at it thoughtfully,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour father, Peggy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded \u201cYes, my father.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed, looked wistful, and turned her attention to her ablutions, forcing Hester to leave the room and quietly close the door behind her.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth Godfrey was tidying the shelf where Mysteries of the Continent of Africa and various other books of similar themes resided, when she was aware of voices. Peeking through the gap between books on the shelf she noticed an older woman with a little girl talking to Miss Tyndale. The child was rather obscured from her view and so Elizabeth didn\u2019t see her very clearly at all, so retreated back to her work.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was about to return one book to the shelf when she heard a soft voice close to her asking for a book that Miss Tyndale said would be located just where she, Miss Godfrey, was working. Could she possibly locate it for her?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth turned towards the speaker and Bridie smiled her gentle smile, her eyes twinkling and quietly repeated her request. Elizabeth heard the words through a haze, for her ears were buzzing, while her head was ringing, and her eyes were watching the little girl as she touched the back of one book after another with her finger tips.<\/p>\n

Bridie turned, saw what Sofia was doing and touched her gently on the shoulder to stop her from repeating the action. She smiled at the same time at the trainee librarian \u201cIt\u2019s alright, she\u2019s very good, she\u2019ll not harm any of the books.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, of course not, I’m sure she won\u2019t.\u201d Elizabeth heard herself saying while she forced her eyes away from the child and tried to find the book Mrs Martin was seeking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI like books\u201d Sofia piped up and came to stand beside Bridie, her hands behind her back now as though even she knew that would be the safest place for them to stop her fingers exploring.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth said nothing but found the book, thankfully within easy reach and handed it to Bridie with a nod. Bridie thanked her and left, taking Sofia with her, and thinking that Miss Tyndale had made a good choice for an assistant, some one as prickly as herself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From her position behind the shelves Elizabeth dared to peek around to watch the woman and the child. Her heart beat so fast it was still making her ears ring as she watched Bridie take hold of Sofia\u2019s hand and walk away with her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had recognised the child, of course, and she had known beforehand that there would be a time when they would meet, but this was so soon, too soon. She had had no time to prepare herself, to think of what to say or do. Seeing Sofia now had come out of the blue and effectively stunned her. She went to a corner where book shelves converged together and for a moment struggled to control her emotions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia \u2026how strange that the sight of that child had had more of an effect upon her than seeing her very own child months ago. Her own little girl handed over to her sister and brother-in-law to rear as their own, and with no knowledge that her Aunt Katherine was her very own mother. Secure in the love of her adoptive parents, the little girl had no need of a fussy over possessive Aunt, who argued with \u2018mother\u2019 about what the child should wear and eat, or when she should sleep, or read, or play. Her pleasant days of childhood had begun to resemble a bear garden, with the two sisters baiting each other, snapping and snarling with her, one little girl, the prize coveted by both.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She hadn\u2019t been able to bear it any longer. Emily was beginning to show signs that she hated and resented her sister being there, the child made it clear she hated her Aunt\/Mother and finally her brother-in-law had advised her that in the interests of all, she should leave. What he had really meant was that he had had enough and wanted her out of their lives\u2026and that had included the life of her own daughter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And here was Sofia, a little girl who had loved \u2018Aunt Katherine\u2019, even if only for a few weeks one fateful winter time. She straightened her shoulders and took a deep breath, well, mother was no longer here to cause problems, and hadn\u2019t she come to Virginia City for the very purpose of finding Sofia again? This time, everything would be just perfect, Rosemary Royale was gone\u2026.Katherine Royale was now Elizabeth Godfrey, probably one of the wealthiest librarians in the west.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Godfrey?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned and looked at Miss Tyndale who was peering at her through her pince-nez \u201cYes, Miss Tyndale?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHaven\u2019t you finished here yet? You must be faster, girl, you never know when you may have a whole roomful of customers \u2026now then\u2026hurry, hurry.\u201d and to add insult to injury she clapped her hands and nodded as though like a little sheep dog she was in charge of gathering up her flock of one recalcitant sheep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth sighed and forced a smile \u201cSorry, Miss Tyndale, I\u2019ll get the idea of how this is done soon, I promise.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mollified Miss Tyndale smiled and muttered something about breaking off for tea now, books gathered so much dust and the dust gathers in the throat\u2026.then she bustled off leaving Elizabeth to dab her eyes and wonder how the dust had affected them so badly.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia skipped alongside Bridie, the sun shone down upon her milky blonde hair that Olivia had carefully braided that morning. She was happy, being with Bridie was a very special treat for she loved the Irish woman very much. The little walk to the library was in order for Bridie to collect a book which she could read to her little visitor that evening before bed, and Sofia knew that Tilly was baking some griddle cakes especially for supper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFlannel, am I really going to stay all night with you and Uncle Paul in your house, and sleep in the big bed?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou are, my pet.\u201d Bridie smiled down at the child, whose beaming blue eyes gazed up at her with that generous outpouring of love children could so happily deposit on the altar to those who gain their affections.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

!And then tomorrow we go home to mommy and daddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, dearie.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c\u201dWill that be after breakfast or before breakfast?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh long after breakfast, my girl.\u201d Bridie smiled down at her, and then with a sigh bustled along the sidewalk pausing to talk to Mrs Garston who wanted to know what Sofia was doing and \u2018did you see that awful woman riding into town again? And she rode out with Adam Cartwright – alone?\u2019 and then later on Mrs Smeaton stopped Bridie and asked what Sofia was doing here in town, was Olivia here too, hadn\u2019t Adam been in town earlier?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia became bored and stood very patiently beside Bridie and wondered why people were talking about her mommy and daddy and who was the awful woman? She ran a few steps ahead and then turned to see if Bridie were coming, but she wasn\u2019t instead she was looking rather angry and her head was bobbing up and down very fast as she talked, so Sofia ran a few steps back. Then Bridie grabbed her hand and strode off very fast, so fast that Sofia had to skip and hop some of the way while Bridie mumbled beneath her breath like she did whenever she took out a cake from the oven that had sunk in the middle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She reached out to take the old woman by the hand and squeezed the fingers gently, \u201cDon\u2019t worry, Flannel,\u201d she said with a sweet smile, \u201cIt\u2019ll be alright, I\u2019m here now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOchone, pet, so you are.\u201d Bridie replied and her voice wobbled a little bit, just a little bit.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia thought it was because Bridie was so happy that she was going to be there, and overnight too, in the big bed!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 16<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 16<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia had never stayed overnight with Bridie before, and the excitement made her a little giddy and high spirited. She helped Bridie make a cake, and sat beside Tilly to watch her carefully as she measured out all the ingredients, even being allowed to crack the eggs into a bowl\u2026took Tilly a little while to fish out the egg shell that went in with them but eventually all was well and the cake went into the oven to cook.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sat beside Paul during supper and told the old doctor all about the trip to the caverns, \u201cI didn\u2019t like it. It was dark and smelly, and wet. But Peggy liked it, she was talking to the boys about it all the time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy Dayton.\u201d Paul nodded, \u201cI remember her when she was a little girl. I had to go to the Dayton ranch when she had measles.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre they nice?\u201d Sofia asked and looked earnestly into the old man\u2019s face and liked the way he smiled down at her, and said that no, measles were not nice, it could even be dangerous to have them which is why her mother sought his help.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They chattered about nothing of any importance as they ate their meal, and Bridie basked in the pleasure of having the little girl there, while Paul seemed to chuckle his way through each course in a way he seldom did usually.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia helped clear the table with Tilly afterwards and perched on a stool, with her sleeves rolled up, insisted on helping with the washing up. Bridie watched with a tender glance and then joined her husband by the fire,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s a lovely child,\u201d she said quietly as she picked up her knitting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, high spirited too. She\u2019ll be quite a catch for some young man one day.\u201d Paul replied and reached for his pipe for, like Ben, he enjoyed a pipe in the evening.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hope this Peggy Dayton doesn\u2019t cause any problems, Paul.\u201d she frowned and counted her stitches on the needle before glancing up at her husband who was looking at her with a query furrowing his brow \u201cThat Mrs Garston is already making insinuations, her poisonous tongue could cause so much trouble for our couple and I would hate that to happen.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMrs Garston is poison. She\u2019s ruining young Lucy\u2019s life, scaring away any potential suitor that comes along. I have spoken to Mr Garston about his wife -\u201d he paused and sighed, leaned back and surveyed his wife anew \u201cwhat do you mean about it causing trouble for Adam and Olivia?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe hinted that Adam and Peggy Dayton rode off together ..alone\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, they did, didn\u2019t they?\u201d Paul muttered and struck a match to light the tobacco<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I know they did, dear, but it wasn\u2019t a planned clandestine rendez vous as she was insinuating. I know Peggy is a young woman, but ..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy would have been Adam\u2019s step daughter had his marriage to Laura gone through. It\u2019s only natural they would be together at times, but then, of course, Mrs Garston wouldn\u2019t know that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, she wouldn\u2019t, and I didn\u2019t either, not fully.\u201d Bridie firmed her lips together and sighed, \u201cThe fact is, Paul, Peggy isn\u2019t a little girl any more, she\u2019s a young woman, and – and it isn\u2019t a good combination is it? A young girl who may harbour fond feelings for a man who could have been her father\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow you\u2019re making insinuations, my dear.\u201d Paul frowned over at her, and shook his head \u201cAdam would no more dream of endangering his life with Olivia than he would in flying to the moon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I know that, dear, but it\u2019s the way they would think, those spiteful tongued women in town should be ashamed of themselves.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re getting heated up about nothing, sweet heart, let it be now.\u201d he smiled and turned to the door to look over at Sofia who was almost tripping over her feet to bring in a plate with some cake on it, which she handed over to Paul.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, this looks rather splendid, Sofia, did you make it yourself?\u201d his eyes twinkled and his rugged craggy face took on the big smile that Bridie loved so much.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI helped,\u201d Sofia said modestly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s my favourite.\u201d Paul replied and gave his wife a wink of the eye, \u201cThank you, Sofia.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They let ha young woman, and – and it isn\u2019t a good combination is it? A young girl who may harbour fond feelings for a man who could have been her father\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow you\u2019re making insinuations, my dear.\u201d Paul frowned over at her, and shook his head \u201cAdam would no more dream of endangering his life with Olivia than he would in flying to the moon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I know that, dear, but it\u2019s the way they would think, those spiteful tongued women in town should be ashamed of themselves.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re getting heated up about nothing, sweet heart, let it be now.\u201d he smiled and turned to the door to look over at Sofia who was almost tripping over her feet to bring in a plate with some cake on it, which she handed over to Paul.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, this looks rather splendid, Sofia, did you make it yourself?\u201d his eyes twinkled and his rugged craggy face took on the big smile that Bridie loved so much.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI helped,\u201d Sofia said modestly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s my favourite.\u201d Paul replied and gave his wife a wink of the eye, \u201cThank you, Sofia.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They let her stay up for another half an hour before declaring it was time for bed, and as Sofia was feeling more than a little tired she was very happy to be running up the stairs and jumping into the big bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust think, Bridie, this is the very first time I\u2019ve slept in your big bed.\u201d she pulled her dungaree\u2019s off and then her shirt, and stood there in her under things and little socks while Bridie found a nightdress that would be suitable for her to wear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Thanks to the hospice and Refuge there were always boxes of spare clothing at Bridie\u2019s. Kind donations handed in from those who no longer needed them, to be handed to those who had a need. They were carefully laundered and packed away for distribution, so when Sofia slipped the pale pink garment over her head all she could smell was lavender and camomile<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow settle down, my pretty, and I\u2019ll read you the first chapter of the story.\u201d Bridie said and settled herself into the wicker work chair beside the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was lovely to slip down between the sheets in the big bed with the mattress that was like a cloud and into which she could sink. She sighed with delight and wriggled her body into a little hollow and then half closed her eyes, \u201cShall I say my prayer first because if I don\u2019t I might go to sleep and not say it at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So the prayer was said with lots of \u2018Please look after\u2019s \u2026\u2019 and apologies for being scared in the caverns, and could God please arrange for the boys to let her into the gang even if she was a girl and scared of the caverns.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFinished now, sweetheart?\u201d Bridie said after a while and Sofia smiled and nodded, her blonde head rustling upon the pillows.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRight, so this is the book I just got from the library from that nice lady who just started working there. It\u2019s very popular so I hope you like it\u2026.\u201d Bridie said in her soft Irish brogue, and she smoothed away some hair from Sofia\u2019s brow and kissed it gently, \u201cNow, close your eyes and I\u2019ll begin\u2026 \u201cAlice was beginning to get very tired of sitting by her sister on the bank, and of having nothing to do: once or twice she had peeped into the book her sister was reading, but it had no pictures or conversations in it, `and what is the use of a book,’ thought Alice `without pictures or conversation?’<\/p>\n

So she was considering in her own mind (as well as she could, for the hot day made her feel very sleepy and stupid), whether the pleasure of making a daisy-chain would be worth the trouble of getting up and picking the daisies, when suddenly a White Rabbit with pink eyes ran close by her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia felt her heart beating so fast against her ribs that it was making her feel ill. She couldn\u2019t speak, her tongue seemed to have stuck to the roof of her mouth and she felt as though she was sweating so much that she had to push aside the blankets. Bridie stopped reading and looked at her anxiously,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you alright, my pet?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia shook her head and stared at Bridie with big eyes, how could she tell her that she hated that book, hated that story, hated Alice. How would Bridie understand? She began to cry, big tears leaked out of her eyes and rolled down her cheeks and Bridie leaned down and swooped her up in a big bear hug \u201cIt\u2019s alright, my pet, it\u2019s alright.\u201d and then she put a hand to Sofia\u2019s brow and frowned, \u201cYou feel very hot. Do you have a sore tummy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia shook her head, and held tightly to Bridie and after a while she stopped crying and was soothed down by Bridie\u2019s gentle voice and settled back into the bed. She blinked and wiped her eyes, swallowed and found her tongue seemed normal, her breathing was back to how it should be and she put out a little hand and placed it on Bridie\u2019s arm,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think I\u2019ll go to sleep now.\u201d she whispered<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want me to read any more?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia shook her head \u201cNo, thank you, I\u2019ll just go to sleep \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie nodded, dropped another kiss on the child\u2019s brow and lowered the flame in the lamp. Sofia watched her go, the little book in her hand, and with a sigh of relief she sunk against the pillows, drew the blanket up closer around her, and closed her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She thought of the last time she had had that book read to her with Ella her friend in the wheelchair close beside her. That was the time when two women insisted that she, Sofia, was a child called Alice, and as Ella\u2019s sister had continued to read the story Sofia had felt more and more panic as she thought of herself as having fallen down a huge hole, disappearing from her parents, from Reuben, never to be seen again. Her mind wandered to scenes in the big house, the room in the loft with the big window, the dolls house, and the toys\u2026and she remembered the two women, Rosemary and the younger woman, Katherine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Somehow sleep came and snatched her away from any further memories. Her eyes closed and her breathing came soft and even. When Bridie peeked into the room much later, the little girl was sound asleep and Bridie put her little outburst down to having eaten too much and the excitement of being away from home for the first time. She had totally forgotten the weeks when Sofia had been away from home before \u2026.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Olivia came downstairs into the main room after settling Nathaniel down for the night, she found her husband seated on the settee, his back arched and his elbows on his knees looking intently at a picture he held in his hands.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was a quiet pleasant evening after what had been a bright spring day, warm and sultry but still requiring a small fire at night. The lamps still had to be lit in the big room, and by their glow and the fire\u2019s flame her husband struck her as a romantic handsome figure. She stood for a while to observe him, the arch of his back, the shape of his head and the way his hair fell over his brow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed with contentment at the feeling now tingling through her, a wave of warmth that made her heart beat faster. How she loved him, and how grateful she was for his love for her, and with that thought in mind she approached him and sat by his side. She leaned against his back with her head upon his shoulder and murmured \u201cWhat are you looking at?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t answer right away, but passed the picture over to her, and then returned to look into the flames while she stared down at the picture of her first husband.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy are you looking at a picture of Robert?\u201d she asked quietly, her heart now troubled, her mind, instincts, warning her to speak with care for although he had himself said Roberts picture should be among the rest of the family pictures, he had not singled it out for special attention before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had said that Robert\u2019s picture belonged there because he was the father of two of their children, but since the time Sofia decided to keep the picture under the pillow and kept on talking about her real daddy, Adam had not seemed inclined to refer to Robert or the picture since. Not that one could blame him, or wonder at it, how many would indeed?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was just wondering\u2026\u201d he said quietly turning back to look at her, \u201cDo you still love him? Think about him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She inhaled sharply and looked again at Robert, the man she had love so wholeheartedly, had dreamt above, and woven visions of the future with him by her side \u2026 she bowed her head \u201cNo, probably not as much as I should really. Although having said that, I don\u2019t know how much one should think about someone one has loved in the past. He was such a dear, kind man,, Adam. You would have liked him, he would have been a good friend for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I love him as I love so many from my past and it seems to me that the heart is large enough to hold them in a corner of it \u2026 perhaps had I not met you, and love you so much now, then I would dwell more often on my life with Robert, on him, and all I lost when he died. But the fact is that I did meet you, and I love you, more than words can say\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She put down the picture upon the table and slipped her fingers into his hand \u201cWhy are you asking me about Robert, now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave a rather impatient shrug as though he felt awkward having asked her such a personal question, one that he felt now was intrusive upon her private feelings. He waited for her to speak but when she didn\u2019t he realised she was waiting for an answer,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was something that Peggy said today\u2026it made me think about you, and Sofia and Reuben. How you must feel inside, even now, and for the children, whether they will one day wake up feeling resentful of not having Robert in their lives, of feeling somehow cheated. I got the feeling that Peggy is angry, inside herself, and I don\u2019t want our children to feel that way, not ever.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy should they? Sofia never knew him, and I think that silliness last year has got it out of her system now, and Reuben\u2026he was only 3 when his father died, and you came and \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes he talk to you about his father?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSometimes. Not very much now, but occasionally. At first when we were going to get married he asked a lot of questions\u2026.whether his daddy would mind, or be angry? Things like \u2026 would my daddy be proud of me for being a good boy, or angry if I said such and such. Oh things that come into the mind of a child. Maybe if he had been older and Roberts\u2019 death closer to our marriage it would have left a deeper mark, but as it is he is happy, and proud to have you as his father now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He took hold of her hand now and folded both of his around it, as though it were precious. \u201cWhen Frank Dayton died, he was drunk, he broke his neck when his horse refused to jump a fence and he was stupid enough to try and force it to try again\u2026Hoss and I thought for sure he would never make it, and he didn\u2019t. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat was when you got involved with Laura?\u201d she couldn\u2019t bring herself to say that was when he fell in love with the woman, perhaps ungenerous of her after all, he held no grudges against her love for Robert.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes. I tried to get her to tell Peggy about Frank \u2026but she wouldn\u2019t. Peggy\u2026she was so angry, such an angry hurt little girl. She would go and sit on the swing and count\u2026tell herself that when she reached one hundred her daddy would come home and take her away from Laura.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe didn\u2019t love Laura? Her mother?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot as Sofia or Reuben and Nathaniel love you\u2026not like that\u2026Frank adored Peggy, when he was at home he spent all his time with her. He was planning on leaving Laura, but taking Peggy with him\u2026I think Peggy would have been happy going with him too. Eventually she got to accept Frank was not coming back and Laura loved her, and she even seemed happy at the thought of Laura and I marrying.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUntil Will came along?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and don\u2019t get me wrong, Livvy, she did care about Will, but not as much as she loved Frank, nor as much as she got to care about me.\u201d he shook his head as though the matter caused him no pleasure, he sighed, \u201cShe said today that no one had thought about her, considered how she would feel when one day she was happily thinking of Laura and I being her mother and father going to school in the morning thinking of the wedding and when she got home in the evening, it wasn\u2019t Laura and Me, instead, it was Laura and Will.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They were quiet for a moment, a log in the fire sent up small flames and settled more firmly against another creating red glowing sparks. Adam frowned again, \u201cI hadn\u2019t thought of how a little girl would react to that\u2026not a little girl like Peggy who only a year earlier had lost her father, and had waited so long for him to come home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut she was alright, wasn\u2019t she? I mean, she accepted Will and seemed happy enough, didn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t see her for some weeks after Laura and Will drove off, I had still some way to go with my back healing, and it was actually their wedding day before I saw her again. She was quiet, and more than happy to see me, in fact, she clung to me like a limpet.\u201d he smiled ruefully, \u201cand then I had to let her go again. They left\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He released her hand and stood up, took the picture of Robert from her and walked to the bureau to replace it among the other pictures, \u201cShe had so much anger in her when Frank died, I don\u2019t believe she ever stopped being angry and from the way she spoke this afternoon, I would say, she is still \u2026 very angry \u2026and she doesn\u2019t really know how to handle it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHer choice of career does seem strange for a young woman\u2026\u201d Olivia said as she leaned back against the cushions \u201cSo much fascination with the dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, at least they don\u2019t get up and walk away from her, do they?\u201d he said, straightening his shoulders as though to tease out a million kinks gained throughout the day \u201cshe can create their history and give them back some vicarious life \u2026something she can\u2019t do with her own father.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia didn\u2019t think it wise to now probe him as to his opinion on Peggy\u2019s more emancipated views, instead she walked to his side and slipped her hand into his, turned her body into the curves of his own and bowed her head so that her brow would meet his own \u2026 she felt sorry for the little angry lost girl that had been Peggy, but Peggy was a woman now, and she felt irrationally irritated at the claims being made on her husband, as though in some way Peggy was using memories and guilt to draw Adam to her, and though she told herself it was stupid, stupid, to even think like that, even so \u2026 she did.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 17<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia felt she was drowning in the big bed but didn\u2019t want to open her eyes to look around the room and get more comfortable. She struggled to sleep, but whenever her eyes closed some reminder of the time in Bodie slipped into her head and would jerk her awake again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She did finally succumb to sleep however, so that when Bridie peeked into the room before going to her bed she was happy to see the child with eyes closed and softly breathing. She tidied the blankets, kissed Sofia on the brow and quietly left the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The clock ticked away the minutes and in the Riley\u2019s household Mrs Riley was knocking on the bedroom door and telling Davy and Reuben that if they didn\u2019t quieten down and get some sleep, she would never permit Reuben to sleep over again.<\/p>\n

Needless to say the boys scrambled for their beds and pulled the sheets over their heads, giggling and whispering for minutes more so that Mr Riley came and knocked on the door on his way to bed and told them to \u2018Quieten down some.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grant Tombs slept in the comfortable bed that had once belonged to Rachel, Roy’s sister. It was a pleasant room and Roy had had the sense to remove all the items that gave it a feminine touch. These he had packed up and posted off to his sister and replaced with sensible things like books, a globe of the world for no other reason than he liked the look of it and when it was pushed to go round and show off the different countries it hummed\u2026he thought Grant would like that. There were other things too that he thought would appeal to a young man, so the room had a masculine stamp on it even before Grant stepped inside and added his own personal items.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now he lay with his arms folded behind his head and stared up at the ceiling, not that he could see much as it was dark, and he had removed his spectacles. He had a lot to think about\u2026 whether a clerical job with Mr Woods, the lawyer who had conducted the case against his father on Joe Cartwright\u2019s behalf, or as a deputy for the sheriff here. He liked the idea of wearing a badge and strutting around town letting everyone see who was \u2018in charge\u2019 but he didn\u2019t like the thought of being shot at, or being called out to ride posse at any time or many other things that Roy added to the list that Nate had considerately left off.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

On the other hand he was more attuned to office work and he liked Hiram Woods. He had studied law, perhaps not to the extent of becoming a lawyer or anything so grand, but he could hold his own as a clerk, or secretary which was what Mr Woods was requiring. It would all depend on whether Mr Woods trusted him or would turn him down because he was the son of a criminal\u2026even a dead one carried a reputation, and Grant was worried that his life would be constantly tainted by all his father had done.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He could, of course, change his name\u2026and as he mentally considered a number of names he particularly liked the sound of, his eyes closed and he finally fell asleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In her room Elizabeth Godfrey sat before the dressing table and stared at her reflection in the mirror. She had just finished brushing her hair which was soft like silk, and shone a gentle golden blonde in the light of the lamp. Without the glasses she wore the blue of her eyes looked more vibrant. She leaned into the mirror as though she needed to see more clearly the woman she had become, she ran her fingers beneath her eyes to smooth away the evidence of the lines appearing there, and then her fingers travelled down to her jaw line, still taut and firm, and her neck and throat, still young looking. But she was looking for something else too\u2026.evidence that there was no resemblance to her mother, Rosemarie Royale, in any of her features.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

To look like her mother would be a nightmare, the fear of being anything like her gave Elizabeth whom we once knew as Katherine, nightmares. Yet she had already taken some steps that only someone as devious as Rosemarie Royale would have thought of, and when she told herself this, even though in a whisper, Elizabeth Godfrey leaned her face into her hands and wept.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She knew the wisest thing to do was to leave Virginia City, to put the past behind her, the longing and desire she had – forget it. But then, she told herself, she had only just arrived, just give her time, a little time\u2026<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia looked down at the house and thought it looked so familiar that there would be no harm at all in walking up the little yellow path and knock on the pink door. On either side of the door was a bay window, and she could see pretty curtains hanging there, and wallpaper on the walls of the rooms. Everything in the house was just as she expected it to be\u2026. She pushed the door open and called out \u201cHello\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A man and a woman stood by a table and looked at her. They did not move. Their arms were very stiff and jutted out from their bodies at an odd angle. Their clothes didn\u2019t quite fit, and their hair looked as though it had been painted onto their heads.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She walked up to them and observed them thoughtfully, of course she knew them, but couldn\u2019t understand what they were doing in her dream. That surprised her, that she knew she was dreaming\u2026 \u201cWhat are you doing here?\u201d she asked them<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Then she realised why she knew she was dreaming because she was the same size as them, in fact, she was smaller. The man\u2019s head turned towards her, it was very stiff as though it was very hard for him to move \u201cYou are a very bad girl.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His lips didn\u2019t move. Sofia realised his mouth nose and eyes were all painted on a piece of wood. He was wood. She turned to the lady who shook her head, more easily than the man had moved his, someone had painted eye lashes on her face, long lashes that went up to the hair line. She looked down at Sofia \u201cYou are a very bad girl.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia stood there and looked down at the floor, she could see that she was very small and she knew if she stayed there any longer she would be wood, just like them, and someone would paint her face too. She turned to move and heard someone say \u201cAlice, you stay right where you are, do you hear me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not Alice, I\u2019m Sofia\u2026\u201d she whimpered and turned to leave, to get away from the house and away from the wooden people. \u201cI\u2019m Sofia\u2026\u201d she shouted, \u201cSofa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hands gripped the top of her arms and held her tightly, she screamed, fought against them and then, when she opened her eyes, there was Tilly, looking anxiously at her, and trying to reassure her, telling her it was alright, she was alright, she was safe\u2026and with a sob she fell against Tilly\u2019s chest (not that there was much there, Tilly was all bone), and allowed the woman to comfort her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie came and asked if anything was the matter, shadows were cast upon the walls from the lamp she held in one hand, shadows that Sofia didn\u2019t know, unfamiliar and odd shapes. Bridie came and took the child in her arms, thanked Tlly who muttered something about a bad dream and left the room. Sofia succumbed against Bridie\u2019s ample bosom, as soft as a pillow, and with Bridie humming a familiar tune and rubbing her back she soon drifted back into sleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie sat beside Sofia’s bedside for another hour, holding her hand and humming old Irish songs until she was totally sure the child slept soundly enough not to be disturbed when she left. Drawing the conclusion that Sofia had either got over excited or had eaten too much cake.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia slept well, with no further disturbance, waking to a new day and for a while just staying in bed to enjoy making plans. She looked at the view out of the window from her bed, thinking how different it was from home where she could see the tree laden hills and cliffs, clouds perched upon the pinnacles of trees, the blue and silver thread of the river. Perhaps the pleasure of being away from home brought with it the realisation of all the things one took for granted and were missed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She missed Clarabelle snuggled in with her, and reminded herself that staying with Bridie had been a surprise, something Daddy had thought of because he knew she was tired. She stretched thin arms above her head and then rolled out of bed. She could smell food cooking, bacon smells floating from the kitchen. Daddy liked his crisp but she preferred hers before it got that far so hurried down to warm Tilly not to burn hers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now she was at the kitchen door she felt shy and stood there with her hands clasped in front of her, “Hello, Tilly.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Cornish woman turned and smiled at her, then wiped her hands upon her apron. “Do you have scrambled egg and bacon for breakfast at home.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia frowned “Daddy does … sometimes …” she replied coyly, wriggling slightly back and forth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“But do you? That’s what I’m asking?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia looked at the food cooking and thought of the oatmeal, or eggs, that were her breakfasts. So she knew she had to be honest and shook her head “Daddy lets me share his bacon sometimes.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tilly smiled, and gestured to the table “sit down now…” She turned back to the stove and as Sofia sat down on the designated chair so Paul and Bridie entered the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was a cosy pleasant little group, Bridie always awoke with a clear plan of the day’s<\/p>\n

events clear in her head and launched into a discussion of who was doing what, where, without preamble. Paul was used to it, Tillie tolerated it good humouredly. Sofia felt very grown up. It was quite different from home …<\/p>\n

…….<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had located the reference books that Adam had used when doing the research for that ill fated history lesson so long ago. When Peggy came down for breakfast he gave her a beaming smile and told her that he had had a rummage around and the books she required were awaiting her attention on the large round table at the other side of the room. She cast a glance towards it, smiled<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Thank you, Mr Cartwright.” she looked fondly at him and then greeted Hester and the girls “Where’s Hoss?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“He, Adam and Joe have work, a tree ..” Hester replied, she turned her attention back to Erik who was struggling to grab for the bread “Did you sleep well.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“1 always sleep well here, ” Peggy replied and flashed a smile at Ben as he took his chair at the table. “I can remember that mother always had a problem getting me out of bed in the mornings.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“And a problem getting you back into it in the evenings, ” Ben chuckled and passed her the platter of bread.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Such memories..Hester gave them a whimsical smile, these memories were part of their history, years before she became part of it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Well,” Peggy took some bread and reached for the ham “it looks like I’m going to be busy today. But, that’s what I’m here for,” she smiled at Hester “I’ll try not to get under your feet Hester.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester returned the smile, and wondered why she felt so irritated at the thought of having Peggy in the house all day.<\/p>\n

……..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The rasp of the saw as it bit into the wood echoed the sound of the axe which Hoss was wielding to such great effect on the tree that they had dragged from the river a few days earlier. The tree had fallen before it had burst into leaf, but the sap had been rising within the old heart of it so that some branches were supple and proving that there was life , would have been life, there still.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe wiped his brow and spat into the ground, moistening his mouth even as he reached for his canteen of water. Adam stopped sawing having lost his partner at the other end, and like his brother reached for his canteen, filled his mouth with water which he swilled about for a second or so before spitting it into the ground. He eyed his brother thoughtfully,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve been very quiet this morning, Joe. Anything bothering you?\u201d he took another swallow, enjoying the cool liquid as it trickled down his throat \u201cEverything all right at home?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe shrugged and bowed his head, thought for a moment and then looked over at Hoss who was still chopping vigorously into the tree, lopping off branches and leaving them to fall where they would for his brothers to drag aside for their attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHard to explain really,\u201d he said quietly and walked closer to his brother as though by doing so Adam would realise the matter was for his ears only. \u201cYou know those ideas of Peggy\u2019s ..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, not just Peggy\u2019s\u2026\u201d Adam muttered thinking of all the women in the world who would or could be affected by the emancipation ideal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d Joe sighed again and looked at Adam, directly into his eyes, \u201cHas Olivia said anything at all about this – getting the vote – that Peggy mentioned the other night?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head, suddenly feeling a sense of relief that Olivia had not mentioned it at all. He frowned and looked at his youngest brothers anxious face \u201cI presume that Mary Ann has?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded \u201cShe told me that she had mentioned it to Hester and Olivia, and suggested that they held a meeting in town\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhoa there.\u201d Adam held up his hand and checked his memory, then scratched his ear and shook his head \u201cOlivia didn\u2019t mention anything about that either.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess she doesn\u2019t think it so very important then.\u201d Joe said dolefully and looked so downcast that Adam put to put his hand on his shoulder and squeeze it gently to convey manly support.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I think we had a few other issues to discuss. \u201c he said and pursed his lips in his familiar fashion before asking Joe what exactly Mary Ann was intending to do with this meeting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe wants to bring the subject of rights to vote to the attention of the town. She said she was going to go into town tomorrow and discuss it with deQuille, getting posters and advertising arranged.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI told her not to bother, we have enough women in town who don\u2019t need to have the right to vote , they already have a voice of their own. Well, that didn\u2019t go down well, she thought I was making fun of the whole matter. \u2019Typical man\u2019 she said.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe has always felt strongly about the subject, even when we first knew her -\u201d Adam said quietly and broke off when Hoss shouted \u201cHey, what are you two layabouts doing\u2026nothing from what I can see.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss tossed down the axe and strolled over to join them, he picked up his canteen on the way and after glugging enough to satisfy himself he gave his brothers the benefit of his blue eyed gaze \u201cSo? What\u2019s so interesting that it stops you from working?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re sounding just like Pa, Hoss\u2026\u201d Joe muttered with a grimace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not? Seeing as how I\u2019m still working and you\u2019re standing around talking and \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWorking is what you do best, Hoss,\u201d Adam said and slapped him on the shoulder with a grin on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t no reason why I have to do the brunt of it,\u201d Hoss growled and looked at Joe and then Adam \u201cSo, what\u2019s going on? You thinking up some scheme on how to get out of more work?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam scratched his head and Joe bit his bottom lip, Hoss glowered<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook, Hoss, has Hester said anything to you about what Peggy talked about the other night? You know, votes for women and all that stuff?\u201d Joe asked, looking at his big brother with an anxious look in his eyes<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss thought for a moment, wiped away a bead of sweat that was trickling pass his eye, and then gazed up at the sky \u201cWe did have a discussion about \u2019Adam and Eve\u2019, you know, the garden of Eden and all that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His brothers looked at one another, Adam rolled his eyes and stared at the ground while Joe heaved yet another sigh and shook his head \u201cIs that all?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat else was there to say?\u201d Hoss shrugged, and observed his brothers with narrowed eyes \u201cAnything wrong in that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe didn\u2019t say anything about a meeting in town, to encourage women to vote?\u201d Joe prompted<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWomen don\u2019t vote, do they?\u201d Hoss asked and raised his eyebrows as his brothers stared at him as though he had crawled out of a hole in the ground, like some gigantic gopher. \u201cWell, they don\u2019t, do they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot yet.\u201d Adam said and approached his end of the saw with a get-down-to-business straightening of the shoulders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe patted Hoss on the shoulder, shook his head and walked to the other end of the saw,. Hoss watched as the two of them got back into the motion of sawing through the thick boughs, he shook his head and walked anxiously over to where he had left the axe. Then he stopped \u201cYou know, if women get the vote – it won\u2019t be long after that they\u2019ll be doing this work for us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam raised his eyebrows \u201cI already know some women who do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYep, so do I.\u201d Joe eased the saw back and forth, the weight of his brother at the other end making it an easier task \u201cAnd I know women who ride herd, and can brand a cow better than some of our ranch hands.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded, \u201cYeah, well, what\u2019s all the fuss about getting a vote for then?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Joe was struggling to come to the right answer he said nothing. Adam had thoughts of his own and decided now was not the time to share them. He was also wondering why Olivia hadn\u2019t mentioned it at all and whether he would be wise to do so, or leave the matter alone.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy was more than grateful when Hester decided to go and visit her sister in law, Mary Ann, so that the children could go and play with their little cousins. Hester was a discerning woman and could see that Peggy was barely able to conceal her impatience with the demands of the little girls on her time, proving a distraction as well as an irritant. Gathering the girls like a mother hen would her chicks Hester scooped Erik up out of his chair and bustled them out, grateful to see the look of delighted relief that stole over Peggy\u2019s face as a result.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester had found it a difficult morning as she wasn\u2019t used to having to tip toe around anyone else in the house or to keep the girls quiet, and distract them from constantly going up to Peggy and demanding her attention. She had taken the young woman coffee, leaving everything there on the table for her to have a constant supply should she so wish, and Peggy had glanced up, briefly thanked her and continued with her work.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Books and parchments piled up on one side, reams of paper filled with notes in front of her, ink splatters over her fingers and paper\u2026.Hester wondered that the woman could make any sense of anything at all. To her questions, politely offered of course, there were just \u2019Uh\u2019huh?\u2019 mutters in answer. Hester was not used to this, she had never experienced the Ponderosa during the time Adam underwent time of study, research or deep reading.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had lasted a bare half an hour of the situation, he had tried to relieve Hester of the children for a while, taking them outside and while he groomed his horse giving them little tasks to carry out. Both girls had no fear of being with the big horses, and gently combed their legs with the curry comb and talked to them until Ben had finished his task and then didn\u2019t really know what else to do. He had decided to ride over and see Olivia, while the little girls ran about the yard with a hoop and stick, a game they enjoyed until Hannah had tripped over her own feet and started bawling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing bustled out to bring Peggy a fresh pot of coffee and place it on the low table near her elbow, receiving a thank you but little else.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou just like Mr Adam when he do study,\u201d Hop Sing said, clasping the previous and now empty coffee pot to his chest, \u201che not speak, just grunt.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHuh..mmm\u201d Peggy looked at Hop Sing and gave him the benefit of one of her smiles, which was always illuminating on her solemn face \u201cThank you, Hop Sing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She reached out for another book and turned the pages, finding the marks that indicated that Adam or some other student had been there before her. So far she had discovered that the names of the Native Americans from that locality included the Koso, Paute , Panamint, Shoshoni, Walapi, Washoe and Ute. Now she wanted to discover which of the tribes had been responsible for the attack on the Spanish soldiers, or if perhaps, the Spanish soldiers had attacked first, a peaceful village of nomads and had been forced to face retribution later as they made further inroads into the territory.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Later Hop Sing came with some food which he insisted she ate, more coffee, or lemonade for choice. He watched over her as she nibbled and sighed when he returned to the kitchen with the plate not even half empty.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth Godfrey had been very careful to remove her jewellery once she had settled into her rooms. She had locked up the box containing her rings, and bracelets and other gems, and then found a place of concealment for the box under the floorboard beneath her bed. Her new personna would never have possessed such a rich treasure trove of beautiful things. Now as she pulled on her gloves and adjusted her bonnet, she decided to venture forth and explore more intimately her new town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Some women recognised her from the library and nodded at her as they strolled arm in arm with their husbands, or were pulled along by their exuberant off spring. Some men also recognised her and raised their hats, nodded and walked on. It occurred to her that it didn\u2019t take much for a single woman to become anonymous in a town such as Virginia City.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The saloons were still open, and as she passed the Bucket of Blood the doors swung open with such force that had she been a footstep closer it would have knocked her off her feet. Two men locked into a bear hug rolled out and fell at her feet, then tumbled into the road, fists and feet flailing and the sound of their blows sounding meaty and unpleasant as they continued to beat the life out of each other.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She skirted around them and continued onwards, noticed Nate Carney the sheriff hurrying to sort the matter out. A woman in a bright yellow and black outfit, short skirt swaying and a feather in her hair came and lounged against the post, laughing as one of the men was pulled free from the other\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth hurried on and crossed the road in order to avoid any further confrontation with the saloons clientele. She saw the entrance to The Internationale and stepped inside. A woman who had entered just moments before her smiled, and then upon recognising her approached \u201cYou\u2019re the new library assistant, arn’t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth nodded, checked to make sure her bonnet was still straight and smiled as she recognised the doctor’s wife\u2026what did she say her name was..oh Alyssia Colby. She was pleased to have remembered and thus be able to acknowledge the greeting with more than a blank smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Alyssia turned to the entrance to the small restaurant \u201cCome on inside, Miss – Godfrey, wasn\u2019t it? Join me for some coffee and perhaps, a cake?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It struck Elizabeth that just perhaps, this young woman was feeling as lonely as herself, that despite having been in the town for some time she had yet to make friends. Safer to acquaint oneself with strangers who did not know her\u2026and Elizabeth wondered why that was. They entered the restaurant and a table was immediately found her them, others at tables they passed greeted Alyssia pleasantly enough but there was not the warmth of friendship there, and again Elizabeth was puzzled by that and observed her new friend with more interest than before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A couple sat at one table, two little children balanced on their knees and here Alyssia did pause to talk to them. Elizabeth hurried on to the table the waiter was indicating was free for them, so that when Alyssia turned to introduce her to the couple Elizabeth was already being seated with her back to them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 17<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had recognised Luke Dent straight away; there was no mistaking him with his shock of blond hair, and anyway, they had met only – what? A year previously? She heaved in a breath, and slowly released it. She had not expected to see him here, not so soon after her arrival. As she forced herself to remain calm she was spared any further thought by Alyssia taking her seat, a smile on her face as she sat down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLuke and Marcy Dent. My husband and I delivered their twins last year. Such a lovely couple. I was surprised to see them here as they live so far out but they had come in to see James, he\u2019s on duty today you see, and they wanted him to check over the children.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTwins you said?\u201d Elizabeth managed to say, although her throat was so tight she could barely speak.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA boy and girl. Philip and Anna.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth nodded, she didn\u2019t want to speak about the Dents, so turned the conversation to Alyssia\u2019s own child, the little boy only a month old and now she didn\u2019t need to worry about speaking at all, as Alyssia began her monologue on the blessings of motherhood.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At about the time when Elizabeth was beginning to believe that Alyssia was one of the worlds most boring women on the subject of motherhood, a slight disturbance was taking place at the Dents table causing a pause in the two ladies conversation. Both turned to see what was happening only to discover the arrival of the Martins with Sofia. It had been Sofia who had caused the disruption by giving a squeal of delight at seeing her Uncle Luke and Aunt Marcy, and the babes. Then there were the greetings and the chatter around the table, which caused further disruption by the waiters hurrying around to find more chairs and Paul insisting, loudly, that there was no need as he already had a table reserved for them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth watched from the safety of her position at the table, while Alyssia smiled and began to chatter, her voice slowly penetrating the cloud of memories and heartache that was a fog in her companion\u2019s mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul finally succeeded in waving the waiters away and led his wife and the little girl to a table further along, where Sofia sat and waved over to Luke and Marcy, blowing kisses that were meant for the babies who were waving both hands at her in return. They were beautiful children, it was clear to anyone that they were twins, not identical obviously as they were different sexes, but their similarity was amazing. Elizabeth cast a covert glance at them and was enraptured. It was with difficulty that she could keep her eyes off them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTwins are quite a rarity,\u201d Alyssia said when noticing her companions distraction, \u201cif it hadn\u2019t been for James and I, well\u2026\u201d and the story of their arrival at the Double D and the labours took another ten minutes after which time she got to her feet, \u201cI had better go now, my own baby will be wanting some attention from his Mama.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, thank you for sharing this time with me, Mrs Corby\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot at all, and you must call me Alyssia.\u201d she gave Elizabeth a warm smile, one that lightened up her countenance so that one got a glimpse of the real Alyssia behind the mask. A far prettier one than she presented to the world, and again, Elizabeth wondered what the doctors wife was hiding, and why? . \u201cIt can\u2019t be much fun living in a few poky little rooms, so do feel free to visit me any time. I would love you to come and spend an hour or so with us. Baby would so enjoy seeing another face, it can’t be much fun for the dear mite to just be looking at us all the time.\u201d she picked up her purse and smiled again, a signal for them both to depart..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Together they passed the table where the Dents were finishing their meal and to Elizabeth\u2019s horror, Alyssia stopped to chat with them and then turned to her, \u201cAnd this is my new friend, Miss Godfrey. She hasn\u2019t been here long and works in the library.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke stood up politely and shook Elizabeth by the hand, his smile was genuine enough but she could see the quizzical look in his eyes as he surveyed her. Marcy gave her the usual \u2018glad to meet you\u2019 kind of smile one gave to a complete stranger and turned her attention back to Anna who was wriggling to get down from her lap.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Godfrey?\u201d Luke said thoughtfully, \u201cDid you know you have a doppelganger?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth felt a tremble of fear and apprehension shiver down her spine, and she forced a smile, a widening of the eyes behind her glasses \u201cReally?\u201d she replied with as cold a voice as she could, then she gave a false brittle laugh \u201cBut then, hasn\u2019t everyone?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke nodded, looked confused and then shrugged \u201cSo they say\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She and Alyssia left them to the remainder of their meal, and once outside and on the sidewalk she breathed the fresh air and wondered if at some time during the day Luke Dent would be knocking on her door, demanding an explanation. Once again she told herself she should never have come to this town, but even as she thought it another voice assured her that yes, it had been the right thing to do, she knew it had been the right thing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia had asked Bridie who the lady was and had listened to Bridie\u2019s explanation that the woman was the new library assistant. She listened and turned back to look again but the austere woman in the black suit, the glasses and the stern pulled back hair was already leaving the restaurant.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned her attention to the meal, and thought of Katherine Royale who had such long curling golden hair, hair she remembered that was caught in ringlets or loose in fat curls, and how she who wore beautiful clothes of bright colours with jewels at her neck and wrists, her fingers always laden with their expensive rings. The library assistant had just looked a little bit like her, that was all, she was plain, and nothing like the woman who had insisted that Sofia was a little girl called Alice.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mac had come from the logging camp with two of the men to put chains around the old tree trunk and harness the chains to the horse so that it could be hauled away to the timber yard. Adam, Hoss and Joe continued with their own work, getting the chopped up boughs and such, into the wagon . Hoss paused to wave Mac and the men away while Adam and Joe approached the small camp fire upon which a coffee pot spat steam. He was handed a mug of the hot brew and then settled down just where the river bank was carved into a soft crescent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI bin thinking,\u201d Hoss said as he sipped the coffee, \u201cthis here business about the women getting the vote?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUh;huh?\u201d Adam nodded and frowned, he brought his cup to his lips and blew softly across its surface<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat you bin thinking, Hoss?\u201d Joe smiled and stretched out his legs, nursing his cup against his chest<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust what difference will it make if they do vote.\u201d Hoss lowered himself down on the grassy slopes and hunched his back as he leaned towards them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe and Adam looked at one another, both nodded and both sighed at the same time. \u201cIt will make a big difference.\u201d Adam said slowly and swallowed some coffee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, a big difference.\u201d Joe sighed and stared down into his cup, \u201cJust talking about it has already made a big difference \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam threw him a sympathetic look and pondered over the implication of what had been said while Hoss nursed his cup and shook his head, \u201cWon\u2019t make no difference far as I can see.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s because you just see it as Hester going into town, making a little mark on a piece of paper and then coming back home and getting on with things as though nothing has happened.\u201d Adam said in as soothing a tone of voice as possible.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded, so far as he could see, that was just about all the difference it would make to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt isn\u2019t that simple,\u201d Joe said, \u201cIf you had to listen to Mary Ann going on about it, once women got the vote there would be no stopping them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo stopping them from what?\u201d Hoss frowned, \u201cDoing things they do anyway? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook at it like this, Hoss\u2026.\u201d Adam frowned and leaned forward, he dangled his now empty cup between his hands, he paused, there were many angles to this particular situation but he wanted one that his brother would understand sufficiently well without making a song and dance about it. “Let’s say there are several candidates up for election and the men in town like the looks of a particular representative, they like what he promises them, and he\u2019s tough, he seems to know some particular benefit\u2019s for the people, and he\u2019s not afraid to say things as they are\u2026 the men in town like him because he goes to the local saloon and drinks with them, sometimes he even buys a round.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He grinned and looked at Joe who nodded, winked at him and looked over at Hoss who was giving it all very serious consideration.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSounds familiar, I remember old Jackson used to do that\u2026\u201d Joe grinned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss rubbed his jaw, and shrugged, Adam continued…\u201cBut the women don\u2019t like him, they think he\u2019s too brusque and his politics don\u2019t cater for their needs. They reckon he’s a bully and his drinking arouses their suspicions so they turn their attention to the other candidates until they find one that suits them better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah\u2026so they vote for him, huh?\u201d Hoss frowned, \u201cSo what happens to the other chap, the one who drinks with the men?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, previously he knew he could count on at least 80% of the vote\u2026right?\u201d Adam looked at Hoss who nodded, \u201cbut now that the women have put in their vote for the other candidate, and maybe pressured their men folk to do the same, he\u2019s lost not only the casting vote but the seat as well. The women have voted and pushed forward another candidate into a prominent and challenging position\u2026\u201d he sighed<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2026complicates things.\u201d Hoss frowned and tossed the dregs of his coffee into the grass.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cApart from which,\u201d Joe said with a heart felt sigh \u201cthey become political\u2026.they talk about things women shouldn\u2019t \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow so?\u201d Adam asked getting to his feet, \u201cI like a woman to have opinions of her own and not be afraid to share them, even if they do differ from my own\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss guffawed and nudged him in the chest \u201cHey, Adam, why don\u2019t you step forward as a candidate next election huh? I reckon you\u2019d get 100% of the votes from the womenfolk in town\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head and gave his attention to the camp fire, he looked up at the sky and grinned \u201cLooks like rain.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

.<\/p>\n

Olivia was standing at the door with Nathaniel in her arms, big boy that he was now, he still liked the opportunity to have cuddles from his Momma. Reuben came into the yard first, and waved his hat at her, a wide grin on his freckled face as he led Max towards the stables. He slid from the saddle and slipped the reins over the rail, before running over to her and hugging her tight. Fondly she stroked back his hair with her hand and asked if he had enjoyed his weekend, then there came the sound of Pauls\u2019 old buggy and there it was, coming into sight with Bridie and Sofia on either side of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia clambered down as fast as she could and ran to her mother with outstretched arms which she flung around Olivia\u2019s skirts \u201cMommee, Mommie\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you have a good time? Did you enjoy yourself?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, it was really good.\u201d Sofia said and stood on tip toe to give Nathaniel a kiss which he refused to accept, turning his head away in disdain. It seemed to him unfair that she could be away for so long and then expect to get a kiss as soon as she turned up again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie and Paul were walking across towards Olivia now, smiles on their faces, eyes bright. It seemed that they had enjoyed the weekend as much as Sofia had, and Reuben was as irritated as Nathaniel as no one seemed so interested in what he and Davy and the boys had been doing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Greetings and hugs and laughter as the old friends met together, and Bridie told Olivia how they had met Luke and Marcy, and how big the babies were now, and Paul said the meal had been good but he had had indigestion ever since.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben asked Olivia for the whereabouts of his father to which his mother looked at the sky and frowned slightly \u201cHopefully on his way home before the heavens open up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll put Max away \u2026\u201d Reuben said and was more than pleased when Paul said he would come with him, it was good to have another man to talk to, even one as old as Dr Martin.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Although the rains had come and a few puddles glistened from the light of the moon, the Martins were able to return to town with a soft breeze blowing and the rain long gone. They were waved away at the door by Adam and Olivia, he with his arm around his wife\u2019s waist, and she with hers around his\u2026.upstairs Nathaniel was sound asleep, Sofia was cuddled down with Clarabelle, and Reuben was flat on his back snoring already.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI thought you were going to be late back,\u201d she said with a smile up at him,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry about that, Hoss and Joe wanted to talk\u2026you know how it is with them they like to yammer away at times.\u201d he smiled down at her, leaned down to kiss her on the nose \u201cActually, there was something I wanted to mention to you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She pulled away from him and made her way to the settee where she relaxed into a corner, and when he joined her she nestled into him, her head on his shoulder and her hand searching for his. Their fingers met and entwined, for a moment they said nothing, the moment was too good, too relaxed and comfortable<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you want to mention to me?\u201d she said very quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s to do with Peggy.\u201d he said and sighed, and he knew, he could feel her body as she sighed as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot just her, it involves\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A scream, a cry \u2026. They both sat upright and looked at one another, Sofia \u2026 he put a hand on her arm \u201cI\u2019ll go.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He took the stairs two at a time with Olivia close behind him, and when he pushed the door open to Sofia\u2019 s room the little girl was sobbing, holding Clarabelle tightly in front of her, covering her face as though the ugly old thing were a shield protecting her from monsters\u2026.\u201dNo, no, no,\u201d she sobbed \u201cNo, stay away, stay away.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She struggled when Adam put his hands on her arms, but when his voice softly saying her name penetrated her consciousness she managed to break free from the dream and looked up at him, fluttered her eye lashes into awareness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s alright, Princess, you\u2019re safe, you\u2019re home with mommy and daddy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t want to be there, I\u2019m not Alice\u2026\u201d she sobbed as she leaned into his arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, of course you\u2019re not Alice, you\u2019re Sofia\u2026isn\u2019t that right?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded, sleepy again now but clinging tightly to the sleeves of his shirt, behind him Olivia felt a tingling over her scalp, as though her hair was standing on end. When Sofia\u2019s grip on him lessened he moved away and looked over at Olivia for her to take over the comforting, which she did, slipping into the space he had vacated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He left the room with her holding Sofia in her arms, gently stroking her back, and whispering words of comfort to her. Sofia was calmer, but her body still shook with sobs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When he came back he held the music box in his hands, the treasured possession from so long ago. He set it upon the night stand and opened the lid, and as the music trickled into the room Sofia listened and slowly calmed, looked at him, and then back to the box. She had always been told not to touch it, it was special, Daddy\u2019s special box. Now she listened to the music and settled back into the pillows,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs it your music box, Daddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is, pumpkin.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere did you get it? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt belonged to your grandmother, Sofia. A long time ago\u2026\u201d he smiled, stroked back a coil of milky blonde hair, \u201cGet to sleep now, sweet heart.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She reached out a hand, dimpled fingers touched his, she blinked sleepy eyes,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy? I\u2019m not Alice\u2026.\u201d just a whisper of a drowsy voice<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, darling, you\u2019re not \u2026 you\u2019re Sofia.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned the key at the back of the box so that the music would play for a while longer, perhaps long enough for her to go back into a calm peaceful sleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia was standing on the landing waiting for him when he came out of Sofia\u2019s room, she took his hand \u201cThank you for that, it was thoughtful of you to bring in the music box.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa used to bring it to me if I had nightmares\u2026\u201d he replied and then glanced back at the closed door, \u201cI wonder what caused that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBridie told me that she had one last night too, \u201c they were walking down stairs now, he in the lead, listening to her as they made their way back to the settee and the warmth of the fire, \u201cBridie said Sofia got upset when they were reading Alice\u2019s Adventures in wonderland.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam said nothing for a moment but took his seat and waited for her to settle back into his arms, \u201cShe told me she hated the book, I remember her telling me that when I was going to buy it for her a while ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe hasn\u2019t forgotten about what happened, has she?\u201d Olivia whispered, a tremble in her voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, but then perhaps we were being rather na\u00efve in thinking that she had\u2026children bounce back from a lot of things, but other things take on an enormous reality in their minds, don\u2019t they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded and for a moment just stared into the fire, the flames were dying down now, it wasn\u2019t a very big fire to start with, just enough to keep back the chill of evening.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you want to talk to me about?\u201d she said still looking into the fire and trying to imagine what her little girl was thinking, feeling, and getting a tightness in her chest while doing so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh nothing really\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing?\u201d she frowned, and turned to observe him, then smiled \u201cWhat is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI just wondered what your thoughts were on this votes for women campaign that Mary Ann seems to be involved in\u2026 and just how you feel about such issues and the meeting she is thinking of holding in town\u201d he shrugged, \u201cThat was all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh silly,\u201d she laughed then, and leaned in to kiss him, \u201cFancy thinking of things like that \u2026at a time like this\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I did say it was nothing and\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She put a finger to his lips \u201cShush\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 18<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy was collecting some books and her journal together when there came the sound of a buggy rolling up in the yard. Hester was about to turn to reach the door but Hannah, now quite a tall little girl, had got \u00a0there first and opened it,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s \u00a0Aunty Mary-Ann, Daniel and Constance.\u201d she announced before reaching up to give her Aunt a big hug as the young woman stepped into the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHester -\u201d \u00a0Mary Ann said as she deposited her daughter onto the rug beside Erik, then noticing Peggy she smiled and nodded \u201cGood morning, Peggy, you look very smart today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have to go into town.\u201d Peggy said with a returning smile, \u201cI have an interview with Mr deQuille, so thought I should look presentable.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann flushed rather pink and looked nervously over at Hester who was still braiding Hope\u2019s hair, and had listened to the interchange of conversation with a little interest. \u00a0 \u201cHester,\u201d Mary Ann turned to her sister-in-law \u201cCould you, would you, look after the children for me?\u00a0 I really need to get into town this morning, it\u2019s really important.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester allowed a slight frown to \u00a0crease her brow and wondered why it was her sister in law always chose her to care for the children. \u00a0 But she was good natured and she knew well enough that her children were blessed by having her cousins so nearby to play with, some families were not so fortunate. \u00a0\u201cOf course you can, Mary Ann.\u00a0 Have \u00a0you any where particular to go ?\u00a0 I mean, obviously you have, but \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann laughed \u201cWell, to be honest, I was going to go and see Mr deQuille.\u00a0 I want his help in organising the meeting, he was such a great help when we needed to get the hospice going, wasn\u2019t he?\u201d she turned to Peggy almost immediately as though to prevent Hester from saying another word \u201cPeggy, I could take \u00a0you into town, if you don\u2019t mind joining me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy flushed with pleasure, after all it was a long ride into town, \u00a0and when alone seemed ever longer. \u00a0\u201cThank you, Mary Ann, that would be delightful.\u201d \u00a0she paused to look down at the books and the journal, \u201cI wanted to run over some facts and figures with Mr deQuille about the excavation, \u00a0and our visit on Saturday.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t really seem very impressed and I rather thought that he would forget about printing the latest information about the Conquistadors, which he promised he would write up because the Smithsonian asked him to\u2026\u201d she drew in her breath \u201cso I want to make sure he has all the facts right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Well, that will suit me just fine too,\u201d Mary Ann said with a wide smile, after all, things could not have turned out better than to have Peggy with her to discuss her views on the emancipation of women and the Vote.\u00a0 Hester would have been disinterested and Olivia would have tried to show interest\u2026but Peggy, well, she was the fount of all wisdom on the subject.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She kissed Daniel, and Constance, hugged Hannah, Hope and Erik and then hugged Hester and whispered \u201cThank you so much, Hester.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two of them bustled out of the room, \u00a0out into the sunlight that beamed down from a perfectly blue sky. \u00a0 Within minutes they were tucked into the buggy and with a brisk flick of the reins Mary Ann had the horse ambling out of the yard.\u00a0 Hester watched them go, \u00a0misgivings welling up within her mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a while they rode out together in a companionable silence, and then Peggy had the temerity to ask Mary Ann what her meeting with deQuille was really all about, \u00a0was she really going to \u00a0give a lecture about emancipation and the vote?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, yes.\u00a0 I think it\u2019s very important.\u201d Mary Ann replied, and gave her companion a sidelong glance \u201cI thought you found it interesting too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cInteresting?\u201d Peggy laughed, \u00a0a good humoured laugh that most of the family had not yet heard from her, \u201cIt\u2019s more than interesting, my dear Mary Ann. \u00a0 It\u2019s life changing.\u00a0 It\u2019s – it\u2019s changing the course of history. \u00a0 We are living at a time when things have to be done, and the current state of affairs cannot continue as they are now. \u00a0 Women have a fundamental right to express their opinions and be taken seriously, \u00a0to be accepted as equal to men and take part in some of the major decisions that affect the economy and world affairs of this nation.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann blinked and turned her attention to the reins, checking the horses, before speaking \u201cGoodness me, Peggy, \u00a0you really are involved in the subject aren\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded \u201cI\u2019ve met quite a few women who are in the forefront of the movement.\u00a0 I know it\u2019s been rumbling on for years now, but there isn\u2019t a better time than now to \u00a0give it a really big push forward.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann nodded, \u201cI\u2019ve thought the same for a very long time now, \u00a0poor \u00a0Joe, can\u2019t understand why I go on about it so much but -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs much as I love him, one has to just face the facts, he\u2019s a man, and he enjoys life as it is and doesn\u2019t want to \u2018rock the boat\u2019\u201d \u00a0Peggy nodded \u201cI\u2019ve seen it happen before, Mary Ann, \u00a0men are scared witless that they\u2019re going to lose their \u2018power\u2019 over us, \u00a0and let\u2019s face it, that is exactly what it is\u2026it\u2019s all about power and control.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary An frowned, nodded and kept silent, she hadn\u2019t really thought about it in that context before, and wasn\u2019t sure how it applied in her own life. \u00a0 She frowned, and sighed, she obviously wasn\u2019t emancipated enough.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They fell into a companionable silence and then Mary Ann asked her about her career, as a archaeologist and how she had met Maurice Stevens, \u00a0and this calmed Peggy down, for she loved her \u2018digs\u2019 and the history behind all the artefacts she found.<\/p>\n

She told Mary Ann about meeting Maurice and then how everything seemed to go full circle with his connections with the Cartwrights.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe thought he was charming,\u201d Mary Ann smiled remembering with fondness the young man with the earnest fervour of a discoverer at the very core of his being, \u201cHe would make a good husband for someone.\u201d and she glanced slyly over at Peggy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I daresay.\u201d Peggy nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut not you?\u201d \u00a0Mary Ann smiled and didn\u2019t mention the fact that she had noticed the faint blush that mantled Peggy\u2019s cheeks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe did propose to me once.\u201d Peggy admitted with a dreamy look on her face, and she smiled at the memory \u201cBut I didn\u2019t accept.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t, but why ever not?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we had been in Egypt together for a few months and just discovered the tomb of a very prominent priestess from the time of Ak-ha\u2019tutmen.\u00a0 I think he just caught up with the excitement of it all and didn\u2019t take him seriously.\u00a0 As he didn\u2019t mention it again I thought how right I was and what a narrow escape I \u2018d had\u2026and he also, after all, I would make a terrible wife for anyone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh surely not.\u201d Mary Ann frowned and shook her head, \u201cOh Peggy, he is such a lovely man.\u00a0 He would have gone out of his way to make you happy, I\u2019m sure\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I don\u2019t know\u2026\u201d Peggy frowned, a little horseshoe of discontent appeared between her eyes, \u201cHe was horrified when he met me at first, couldn\u2019t believe that a woman \u00a0could do the job, kept on about \u00a0\u2018I don\u2019t want to wake up in the middle of the night hearing you screaming because you found a scorpion in your slippers\u2019 \u00a0or \u00a0 \u2018women have no idea of how to conduct themselves on an excavation of this importance.\u2019 \u00a0he soon changed his mind though \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They both sighed simultaneously, \u00a0so Peggy thought now was a good time to find out how Mary Ann had managed to snare Joe Cartwright whose reputation as a Casanova was well known through out the territory.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, considering how few women there are out here, and 75% of them are too old for Joe to b e interested in, I think his reputation is very much inflated.\u201d \u00a0Mary Ann laughed, although Peggy did notice a little touch of brittleness so obviously the idea was not one of her favourites, but she proceeded to tell Peggy all about how she and her brother, Frank, had met the three \u00a0brothers, \u00a0and separated not long afterwards. \u201cI never forgot him though, and \u00a0years later when I saw an advertisement for school teacher in Virginia City I applied and got the position.\u00a0 Then I met him\u2026I can\u2019t tell you how happy I was, Peggy, to realise that not only did I still love him as much as ever, but that he also returned my feelings.\u201d<\/p>\n

Peggy nodded and stared right ahead, \u00a0she decided to say nothing on the matter, but kept her opinion to herself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They chattered on a little for a while and it seemed hardly anytime at all before they were driving down the C Street and heading towards the offices of The Territorial Enterprise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda Ridley was standing at the doorway of the Ladies Emporium as Peggy and Mary Ann clambered down from the buggy. \u00a0 When Mary Ann turned her head while winding the reins over the hitching post she caught Amanda\u2019s eyes and raised a hand to wave. \u00a0 She thought that Miss Ridley could very well be a fine candidate to discuss the matter of the Vote with at a future time.\u00a0 With a smile of self satisfaction on her lips she entered the building of the newspaper offices, followed by Peggy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel deQuille was more than pleased to see Mary Ann Cartwright, even if she had made no appointment.\u00a0 He had always admired her as being one of the feistier women on the Ponderosa, remembering the fight she had put up over the founding of the Hospice, refuge etc which Bridie had now taken over so well.\u00a0 He pulled out a chair for both ladies and then returned to his side of the desk from where he nodded and smiled at them both \u00a0\u201cWell now,, ladies, shall we talk business?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI like that you get to the point so directly, Mr deQuille.\u201d Peggy replied and p ulled out her folder. \u00a0\u201cI just wanted to ensure that you had your facts right before you publish about the excavation.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel nodded \u201cWell, it wasn\u2019t really an excavation on Saturday, was it, Miss Dayton? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, perhaps \u00a0you are right about that detail, but I needed to see where the men had died, and to get the general picture. I have only Maurice\u2019s sketches to go by, and the boys\u2019 provided some good information as well. \u00a0 The \u00a0information I wanted you to publish is contained here\u2026.the history of the men themselves.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll of them?\u201d Daniel frowned and took hold of the journal rather gingerly, as though it would burst into life if he grabbed it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, we were not able to identify them all.\u00a0 But those that mattered we could\u2026and also I have been working on the findings of the arrows and the Indian that Maurice sketched \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh yes, one of the victims of the Spanish\u2026well, \u00a0the only one we found anyway.\u201d Daniel grimaced and glanced at Mary Ann. \u00a0\u201cI \u00a0hope this conversation won\u2019t be boring you in any way, Mrs Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot at all,\u201d Mary Ann replied and smiled at the look of disappointment on his face, he obviously did and had hoped that were she equally as bored the discussion could be brought to an end.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He and Peggy talked on for another half an \u00a0hour until Peggy was satisfied that she had what she needed upon which Daniel turned to Mary Ann \u201cAnd now, Mrs Cartwright, what can I do for you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wondered if you could help me again, Mr deQuille\u2026you were so wonderful when it came to organising the refuge, \u00a0so I immediately knew I could turn to you now to help me with organising a meeting next Friday week.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean\u2026an event of some kind?\u00a0 In the Town Hall?\u201d \u00a0he raised his eyebrows, \u00a0and smiled, obviously funds were sinking low with regard to the hospice and time to turn attention to their plight by a benefit of some kind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cwell, not really.\u00a0 I just want to hire out the hall and invite the citizens of Virginia City to attend.\u00a0 Some posters of course, if t hey could be put up around town that would be wonderful.\u00a0 Oh, and some printed invitations as well\u2026.there are the outlying homesteaders that I can call on and leave them with\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded and smiled at Peggy, \u00a0and then turned back to Mary Ann \u201cAnd what is the meeting about, Mrs Cartwright? \u00a0 Have you thought of the theme?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, the theme is about Emancipation for women\u2026\u201d she smiled sweetly, giving him the benefit of her big grey eyes and cupid bow lips,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He paused, his pen an inch from the paper \u201cEmancipation for Women?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and why we should have the vote.\u00a0 I want you to write something like\u2026\u201dWomen of Virginia City, this is YOUR time to look to your future, to the future of your daughters, and to the future of your country.\u201d \u00a0something like that\u2026.I want men and women to attend of course, \u00a0as I want them to feel free to speak up, ask questions and put forward t heir opinions.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel frowned and muttered \u201cI should think they will at that\u2026if they come\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy leaned forward \u201cOf course they\u2019ll come, Mr deQuille.\u00a0 Now then, \u00a0if \u00a0you could get that organised for us. \u201c she rose to her feet in one swift movement and smiled, as though she never expected him to say a word against the project, \u201cWe\u2019ll collect tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel looked down at the notepaper upon which he had written nothing, he cleared his throat \u201cWhat does your husband think of this, Mrs Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s fine about it, \u00a0he thinks intelligent women should be only too anxious to see this happen.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Ben?\u00a0 What\u2019s his opinion?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t know, Mr deQuille, and as it isn\u2019t my father-in-law who will \u00a0be paying for your time and effort, it really isn\u2019t any of his business.\u201d Mary Ann snapped and stood \u00a0up, \u201cAs Peggy says, we\u2019ll collect tomorrow.\u00a0 Thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel sunk back down on his chair listening to the echo of their footsteps as they left the building, he looked down at his notepaper and began to write \u2026 throughout \u00a0writing he kept shaking his head, wondering is either of them realised the strength of the fire they were about to ignite \u00a0throughout the homes and hearts of Virginia City\u2019s most prestigious citizens.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 19<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As soon as the two young women left the newspaper offices they began to laugh.\u00a0 Peggy out of sheer exuberance and Mary Ann from contained hysteria.\u00a0 She had never thought it possible that she would say half the things that she had said and now looked at Peggy as though \u00a0she had set her kite soaring skywards and could no longer haul it back in<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou were splendid, Mary Ann.\u201d Peggy gasped between giggles and grabbed at her friends hand \u201cLet\u2019s go and get a drink to celebrate.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh .I couldn\u2019t.\u201d Mary Ann said breathlessly, and blinked her big grey eyes in bewilderment, \u201cJoe would never forgive me if I went into one of those saloons and ordered a drink\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

That sent Peggy into fresh paroxyms of mirth, \u201cNo, no, heavens forbid, let\u2019s go to the Internationale, we can have a strong coffee to calm us down before we get home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Home.\u00a0 Mary Ann stopped laughing and her face fell into more sombre lines.\u00a0 She wondered how Joe would react\u2026but then she had been wondering that ever since she had first thought of this project, now it was underway it just seemed more – somehow – inevitable.\u00a0 He hadn\u2019t really been championing the cause, \u00a0and could well feel that his wife had taken leave of her senses. \u00a0 She followed Peggy at a slower pace, and by the time she took her seat and heard the younger woman ask for coffee, \u00a0and cake, \u00a0she was feeling less hilarity and more anxiety.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the matter, Mary Ann?\u00a0 You look as though you lost a dollar and found a dime?\u201d Peggy admonished and then smiled, nodded \u201cAre \u00a0you worried about what Joe will say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I am rather\u2026he wasn\u2019t ..isn\u2019t\u2026really that interested in this emancipation business, he thinks it\u2019s just wishful thinking on the part of some deluded women, including me.\u201d she frowned, and shook her head \u201cWe don\u2019t quarrel over much, but this is the closest we\u2019ve come since\u2026\u201d she closed her lips firmly, best not to mention \u00a0\u2018since\u2019 as it still hurt if she were to be truthful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Joe will get over it once he realises that you are really wanting to succeed in this, he\u2019s like all the Cartwrights, very open minded.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think so?\u201d Mary Ann frowned and looked at Peggy with interest.\u00a0 She wondered how Peggy could be so certain about the Cartwrights when she, who lived with them, was part of them, was not.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The coffee and cake arrived and it was while they sipping the coffee and nibbling the cake that a young man approached the table, clearing his throat along the way as he did so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMrs Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann glanced up, frowned and then recognised the young man who stood, rather hesitantly, at the table, \u201cGrant?\u00a0 Oh Grant, how lovely to see you again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cForgive me for intruding.\u201d Grant smiled at her and then turned to Peggy \u201cbut you dropped your glove.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He held out the soft kid glove to her and she smiled \u201cOh I always seem to be losing something,\u201d she laughed and her cheeks dimpled rather fetchingly \u201cThank you, Mr\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTombs, Grant Tombs.\u201d the young man said quickly, wondering if his fathers name would be known to her, and how she would react if it was, but Peggy continued to smile at him pleasantly and Mary Ann suggested that he joined them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Mrs Cartwright, but I have to go. \u201c Grant replied and looked at Mary Ann with a smile on his own face, \u201cI\u2019ve moved in with Roy now, \u00a0I hope to make it my permanent home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s wonderful news, Grant.\u00a0 I am pleased.\u201d \u00a0Mary Ann paused and then blushed a little, \u201cI am sorry, I should have introduced you\u2026.Peggy Dayton, this is Grant Tombs, a friend of the family.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The young man nodded in Peggy\u2019s direction while she continued to smile at him, a little distracted \u201cI hope to see you around town ..Miss Dayton.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, likewise, Mr Tombs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She watched him walk away, slipping his hat over his fair head as he reached the door, and looking away quickly when he turned his head to glance back towards them before he disappeared out into the street.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe seems rather a pleasant young man.\u201d she said without much sincerity or interest, and continued to pick at her cake.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe is, \u00a0and in his own way, he\u2019s a very brave y oung man.\u201d Mary Ann replied, but said no more knowing that it was not her place to say anything else, \u00a0it was up to Grant to say what needed to be should the occasion arise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMary Ann, I have had a wonderful idea\u2026\u201d Peggy said, lowering her voice and leaning closer to her friend, \u201cTomorrow when we come in to collect the posters \u00a0and invitations\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes?\u00a0 What is it?\u201d \u00a0Mary Ann smiled, excitement welling up inside her, \u00a0Peggy\u2019s enthusiasm was like a fire, all consuming.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we could stand on the corner of C street and hand out the invitations to passers by\u2026that way we\u2019ll really ensure a good audience.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot necessarily,\u201d Mary Ann said cautiously, and no doubt rather awed by the very thought of standing publicly handing out the invitations, \u201cAfter all, giving them invitations doesn\u2019t mean they will come to the meeting.\u00a0 An invite is just that, an invite\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTrue enough, but it will be good, Mary Ann. \u00a0 Some women did it in London recently, and it got a lot of publicity.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not sure I\u2019m ready for too much publicity.\u201d Mary Ann said quietly, wondering now if she had stirred up a hornets nest<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMary Ann, this isn\u2019t about you .. It\u2019s about our cause, for women everywhere.\u201d Peggy reached out to place a hand upon Mary Ann\u2019s arm, \u201cFaint heart never won\u2026anything.\u201d she smiled and her eyes twinkled mischievously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth Godfrey was seated at a nearby table, drinking a solitary cup of tea, and overheard the excited whispers between the two women.\u00a0 She had recognised Grant from \u00a0when she had been in Boulders Creek for the trial, and had been about to board the stage back to Waycross when Grant had confronted his father. \u00a0 She had thought then what a courageous thing that had been for a young man to do, considering how powerful a man Jethro Tombs was, and how ruthless. \u00a0 She had even, at one time, thought what an unholy alliance it would have been had Tombs and her mother struck up an partnership.\u00a0 She shook her head now just at the thought, it was quite terrifying.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy recognised her as she passed the table and paused to introduce Mary Ann, the three women exchanged pleasantries\u2026what a nice day, pleasant weather, a perfect spring let\u2019s hope for a good summer\u2026.and then parted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann worried about the venture into town the next day, \u00a0as soon as she stepped foot inside the house she wondered if she had bitten off more than she could chew.\u00a0 Peggy was so exuberant, so full of this cause, that she had swept the other woman along with her enthusiasm.\u00a0 A little like some flotsam on the surface of flood waters.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What would Joe think?\u00a0 Would he forbid her to go?\u00a0 If he did, what should she do, just accept it and stay home.\u00a0 That, she decided was the best thing to do, \u00a0stay home and leave it to Peggy.\u00a0 Her heart beat faster every time she thought abut mentioning it to Joe, her sense of honour and duty too strong for her to pretend or prevaricate.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She played with the children, with a slightly distracted air, and helped prepare the meal with the same distraction so that Lee Sing was worried about her and asked her if she was sickening for something.\u00a0 Should he get Hop Sing to come and help her?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Joe came home, and she heard the door close behind him, the familiar sound of his footsteps approaching the door to the main room where she sat with the children, her heart beat so fast she felt faint. \u00a0 As it was she got to her feet, with Constance in her arms and greeted him with her usual smile, and kissed him tenderly as she always did.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was smiling, his hazel eyes twinkled green sparks, and he kissed her cheeks, then her nose and then laughing as he kissed her mouth. \u00a0\u201cDid you enjoy your day in town, sweetheart?\u201d then before she could answer he had taken Constance from her and was holding her up to the ceiling and laughing while Daniel ran up to him and grabbed his leg, demanding attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll tell you all about it later, Joe.\u201d she said and watched with love swelling her heart as she watched him with his children. \u00a0 She didn\u2019t want any of this to change, the warmth of feeling, the trust and joy between them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He held her hand as they walked into the dining room and then excused himself as he needed to wash up before eating. \u00a0 They looked into each other\u2019s eyes and for an instant she wondered if her eyes would betray her , would he sense that she had taken a step into the unknown, and without him, without his real approval or understanding?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As she waited for him and settled the children down for the food to arrive, she thought over other times when she had acted impulsively. \u00a0 She and Frank together had left home, ventured into the unknown\u2026with the result that he had been killed and she had been confronted with horrors she could never have imagined while safely tucked away back East. \u00a0 Then she had abandoned her teaching post on a whim to come to Virginia City to find him, not knowing whether he was still single, just hoping and trusting in \u2026what?\u00a0 Kismet? \u00a0 And now this\u2026but he had always known of her feelings regarding emancipation for women, they had discussed it before, \u00a0she had read him passages from the books she read and he had never once been angry or derided her for her opinions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Taking courage over this last thought she smiled at him when he returned to the table, kissed Constance on the top of her downy head, tweaked Daniel\u2019s cheek, surveyed the food on the table and gone \u201cHmmm, something looks and smells lovely.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They shared out the food, \u00a0she cut up Constance\u2019s into little bite sized portions, and helped Daniel with his\u2026Joe chattered on about the day, about what he had been doing, about Hoss complaining about his bunions and insisting there would be snow soon\u2026Impossible of course.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, what will \u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He leaned across to get more meat onto his plate and then turned to her, \u201cSweetheart, I am sorry but I have to go to Papoose Peak tomorrow with Hoss.\u00a0 Pa heard that there was some trouble up there, seems like some rustling that he wants us to check out.\u00a0 I\u2019ll be gone a few days\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean you won\u2019t be here tomorrow?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not until Friday I reckon, depends how much truth there is in what Pa was told.\u00a0 Could be nothing \u2026\u201d \u00a0he squeezed her fingers \u201cI am sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded thoughtfully, and then smiled at him. \u00a0\u201cThat\u2019s alright, Joe. \u00a0 I was going to go into town tomorrow, with Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, to the hospice?\u201d \u00a0he grinned, and turned his head to pay attention to some gabbling from his daughter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The chance, so Mary Ann, thought, was gone. \u00a0 For some reason she felt relieved, \u00a0she could avoid telling him, and if things went well, he might never even get to know about it. \u00a0 Well, not until the meeting\u2026.he turned to her \u201cHow did you get on today, honey?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, \u00a0very well thank you, Joe.\u201d \u00a0she paused, instinct was to tell him, tell him now\u2026fear was to keep her mouth firmly shut.\u00a0 She licked her lips \u201cI went into town with Peggy today\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI thought you said you were going in tomorrow\u2026\u201d he quirked an eyebrow, looking for all the world like his brother, Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I am\u2026as well\u2026\u201d she floundered, and sighed, \u201cI went in to see Mr deQuille. Peggy had to see him about the excavation, he\u2019s writing an article abut the men who were found there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh, Reuben\u2019s conquistadors?\u201d \u00a0he grinned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that\u2019s right.\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0she wondered if she could leave it at that, and told herself that if he said nothing more then she would not either.\u00a0 She picked up a glass and sipped some wine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what did \u00a0you have to see him about?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked down at the food n her plate, then glanced at him \u201cI asked him to put an advertisement in the newsheet about the meeting\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Meeting?\u201d his brow clouded, the spark went out of his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, \u00a0you know, I told you before, about the Meeting \u2026to discuss about the vote for women.\u201d \u00a0she paused and added lamely \u201cYou said I could\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded \u201cI know I did, but I have been thinking about it and \u2026well\u2026perhaps \u00a0it\u2019s not such a good idea, Mary Ann.\u00a0 Not yet awhile.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not yet? \u00a0 There are debates about the subject going on in so many towns now, Joe.\u00a0 Even Mark Twain made a speech about it and \u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHas deQuille agreed to print the ad?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and – some posters \u00a0-\u201d \u00a0she faltered and looked at him with troubled eyes, \u201cIt will only be a short meeting, Joe.\u00a0 You did agree with me that it was unfair that women couldn\u2019t vote?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She knew she was wheedling, trying to get him on her side, to persuade him to see her point of view whether he liked it or not.\u00a0 Was this how women fought and won their battles over their men folk?\u00a0 Would Hester or Olivia do likewise? \u00a0 She could imagine Peggy just telling her husband she was having the meeting and he could just have to put \u00a0up with it, but she couldn\u2019t do that, not to Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She reached out for his hand, just for reassurance and squeezed his fingers.\u00a0 His frown lessened, \u00a0he smiled and shook his head \u201cYou are a funny one, \u00a0sweetheart. \u00a0 If women get the vote it will be like Pandora\u2019s box, \u00a0goodness knows what will come flying out, and what pandemonium it will cause.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut even so, Joe\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded and leaned in to kiss her, nodded again \u201cIf it makes \u00a0you happy\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sunk back in her chair feeling not so much happy, but exhausted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 20<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia was not among the group of children who all found it hilariously funny when Jimmy Carstairs went to kick the ball and the sole of his boot flew off and went further than the ball! \u00a0 Initially it had been funny, and she had involuntarily laughed but then the look of shock, dismay and sheer misery on Jimmy\u2019s face caused her to step back and walk away rather than watch the consequences of such an action.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Children could be cruel, even in her young years Sofia was more than aware of that, and somehow it distressed her to think that Jimmy would be teased and made fun of by the children.\u00a0 Davy retrieved the sole of the \u00a0boot and he and Reuben contrived to shuffle Jimmy out of the way of the jeering, laughing boys and girls who thought it wonderful fun to expose the vulnerabilities of a child.\u00a0 Even children who often came to school in the warmer weather with no shoes at all joined in the cat calling and the cackling laughter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t you run home and get another pair to wear?\u201d Davy suggested watching as Jimmy struggled to find a way to fit the sole to the upper part of the boot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI – I don\u2019t have another pair.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tommy Conway pulled a face, one of sympathy but also showing his inability to understand the poverty of others.\u00a0 Jimmy was always so clean and tidy, and Tommy always thought \u2019poor people\u2019 were dirty and smelled because they could not afford soap.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr Evans has some glue ..perhaps we can glue them together.\u201d Reuben suggested, and looked at the offending sole \u00a0in the way of being presented with an unsolvable puzzle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think so?\u201d Jimmy looked at Reuben hopefully, he wiggled his toes making the socks he wore look even more threadbare than they were.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe could try.\u201d Davy said, and glanced over his shoulder, \u201cC\u2019mon.\u00a0 Let\u2019s see if we can get inside before class starts again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

One of the teachers came along at that time, shouting to the children to disperse and get on with whatever they should be doing instead of causing \u2018a ruckus\u2019 as he described it.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t notice the boys lingering in a huddle by the steps, nor did they notice them take the opportunity to hurry into the building, taking the stairs two at a time and slipping carefully into the class room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The glue was extremely sticky and Jimmy hoped to goodness that it would do the job efficiently and well. He removed his boot and the boys closed ranks to watch the glue being applied by Reuben and then attached to the upper \u2026 Reuben pressed the edges close together and it looked like a job well done until Jimmy put the boot back on and the sole fell off again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt needs to dry.\u201d Tommy suggested wishing he were down stairs and eating his lunch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, it needs to stand upside down so it can dry because your foot is going to just push it off every time.\u201d Davy nodded and scratched his head as he pondered over the conundrum.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure these are the only boots \u00a0you have?\u201d Phil now asked, again, and Jimmy nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boys surveyed the boot and then looked at Jimmy. \u00a0 \u201cYou need more boots.\u201d \u00a0Phil said philosophically.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy Ma can\u2019t afford new boots.\u00a0 I have to curl my toes up as it is because these are too small.\u201d Jimmy replied and blushed in having to admit to their poverty.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben looked at Jimmy\u2019s feet and frowned \u201cI\u2019ve an idea\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben was always full of good ideas, so they believed anyway, and now looked at him with trust and confidence in their eyes.\u00a0 He began to unlace his boots and \u00a0grinned at Jimmy, \u201cYou can borrow these while the glue dries \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy didn\u2019t think that a great idea. He had already abandoned the glue project, deciding it wouldn\u2019t work no matter what he tried to do.\u00a0 He put one of the boots on that Reuben handed him, \u00a0and grinned \u201cYou\u2019ve got bigger feet than me\u2026\u201d he could wiggle his toes inside it, and it felt comfortable.\u00a0 His foot spread out and it seemed to him he could almost imagine his toes sighing with relief.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if you both wear just one boot\u2026\u201d Tommy said as Reuben passed over his other one, \u00a0\u201cIt won\u2019t look so much as though Jimmy \u2026 well \u2026you know?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They all knew what he meant and Jimmy felt a prickle of shame tingle through him.<\/p>\n

He knew there were children in the school worse off than himself, he knew also that his mother had a well paying job, \u00a0but he also knew that the rent had been increased, \u00a0food was expensive and everything cost. \u00a0 His Ma was doing her very best but the money didn\u2019t stretch to new boots, not just yet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The door opened and a voice said \u201cWhat are \u00a0you boys doing in here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They turned, the boot Jimmy was holding in his hand dropped onto the floor and all five of them squirmed and blushed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou should be outside. \u201c Mr Evans said and approached them slowly, his hands behind his back. \u00a0 \u201cCarstairs, what have you got there?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA – a boot sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Evans surveyed the boot and looked down at Jimmy\u2019s feet, and then at Reubens.\u00a0 He frowned \u201cWhy aren\u2019t you wearing any boots, Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI – I was sharing with Jimmy.\u201d \u00a0 Reuben stuttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHis sole fell off, sir, it came away from the boot, we thought we could stick it together with glue. \u201c Tommy blustered, blinking furiously as he spoke up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Evans narrowed his eyes and frowned, \u201cCan\u2019t you go home and get another pair?\u201d he realised as soon as he said the words that he had added further humiliation onto the boy\u2019s shoulders.\u00a0 Jimmy sagged, his head bowed onto his chest, he dropped Reuben\u2019s boot onto the floor with a thud.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Evans looked at Reuben \u201cPut your boots back on, Cartwright.\u00a0 The four of you, \u00a0get back outside. \u00a0 Jimmy, you stay here\u2026\u201d he picked up the sticky glued together boot and frowned, \u201cWe\u2019ll put this object in the cupboard, it\u2019s possible that it may be alright by the end of class.\u00a0 Have \u00a0you your lunch?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d Jimmy nodded, \u00a0he didn\u2019t like to admit that he often shared Tommy\u2019s and Davy\u2019s and Reuben\u2019s because Mrs Carstairs, sometimes, didn\u2019t have time to prepare anything for him. \u00a0 And worse, sometimes there was nothing \u00a0in the house that she could prepare\u2026.he sighed, and hoped that his face didn\u2019t betray him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy knew a lot of secrets that no one else knew. \u00a0 Of course everyone knew that he was very fond of Sofia, that was no secret. \u00a0 \u00a0No one knew that his father had been a drunkard, a bully, and that he had died because he was so drunk that he hadn\u2019t had the sense to get out of the way of a bullet when there had been a bit of gun play in a saloon.\u00a0 Had he been sober he probably wouldn\u2019t even have been there in the first place.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And no one knew that he had once had a sister.\u00a0 She had been older than him so he could remember her very well. \u00a0 She had not looked like him at all, being dainty and fair.\u00a0 Mrs Carstairs, who was not an unattractive woman, said her daughter looked like her own sister who had been beautiful.\u00a0 Jimmy didn\u2019t know about his aunt, but he could remember that his sister was very pretty. \u00a0 He had kept her a secret because his mother never spoke about her, \u00a0so Jimmy thought it was best to say nothing, like it was best not to mention about his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs Carstairs thought that Jimmy\u2019s attraction to Sofia was because she reminded Jimmy of his sister.\u00a0 Perhaps she was right, \u00a0but no one would know, because no one knew about \u00a0Emily Carstairs, she was a secret.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now he looked at the \u00a0boot in his hand and realised that the secret of their poverty was revealed to the world. \u00a0 Everyone would know, and his mother would be ashamed. His hard working caring mother would have to suffer all over again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t put the boot in the cupboard but carried it under his arm, limping resolutely with his other boot still tied securely. \u00a0 They trailed out of the room \u00a0to the yard and found a quiet more secluded area in which to eat their food.\u00a0 They shared out their lunches with Jimmy, who ended up having more than he would have done had he actually brought his own lunch to school.\u00a0 They were munching away when Reuben glanced up at the clock and then looked at them,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, \u00a0I have an idea\u2026but I may be late back to school so you\u2019ll have to cover for me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want me to come too?\u201d \u00a0Davy asked hopefully, \u00a0he wasn\u2019t too bothered about being late back at school, \u00a0missing class was better than a bar of candy in his opinion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben shook his head \u201cNo, but, Jimmy, give me your boot, and the sole..that\u2019s it\u2026that\u2019s fine\u201d \u00a0and without another word hurried away and out of the \u00a0playground. Sofia saw her brother and ran after him, but her legs were too short to catch up.\u00a0 She watched him running into the town, \u00a0and then turned to the other boys \u201cWhere\u2019s he going?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They shrugged, Davy put his hands in his pockets and whistled, and sauntered off to the school gates to wait for Reuben to return.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben ran as fast as he could to Mr Tobin, the cobblers.\u00a0 The old man was a kindly old fellow and Reuben was sure that he would take pity on a poor boy \u00a0who \u00a0would be without his only boots.\u00a0 There was a queue but Tobin noticed him and with a sharp snap to his voice demanded to know what he was doing, and why wasn\u2019t he at school<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI – we – there was an accident and the sole came off and \u2026\u201d Reuben held up the offending boot and sole, other customers stepped back as though the wretched thing contained the plague but Tobin nodded, \u00a0\u201cPut it down there, I\u2019ll see to it later.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut Jimmy needs it now\u2026\u201d Reuben stammered,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tobin shook his head, picked up the items that Reuben had placed on the counter and frowned \u201cThese won\u2019t be worth the money it\u2019ll cost to repair them\u2026sides which I\u2019d need the other boot so they would match up.\u201d he turned them this way and that way and shook his head again, \u201cThey need throwing away they do\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He pushed them disdainfully back over to Reuben and turned to pay attention to the woman he had been serving when Reuben had interrupted them. Poor Jimmy\u2026Reuben knew that during recess the other children would notice he was one boot short, and they would laugh at the boy again. \u00a0 He glanced around him and tried to think of some solution.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Of course, it was Tuesday which meant it was Olivia and Ann\u2019s day at the refuge\/hospice.\u00a0 Nathaniel along with David and Samuel Canaday would be left in the creche with the children of various homesteaders, and townspeople, playing with toys or listening to stories being read to them. After their lunch they were settled down for a little nap.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia was more than surprised when she saw Reuben running into the building, his face rather red from his exertions. \u00a0\u201cWhat are you doing here?\u00a0 Are \u00a0you ill?\u00a0 Is Sofia alright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but Ma\u2026\u201d he paused to catch his breath, \u201cI need some boots.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean?\u00a0 What\u2019s wrong with your boots?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben frowned, \u00a0told her the sorry story about Jimmy\u2019s boots, the humiliation, and how he only had one pair which were too small anyway.\u00a0 Olivia was rummaging through a box packed with old boots, shoes, moccasins even, worn out slippers, \u00a0fancy glittery high heeled shoes\u2026she produced several pairs of boots, some worse than the pair Jimmy already possessed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat size?\u201d she asked thoughtfully as \u00a0she held a pair in her hands<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy size, Ma.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Another pair were pulled out from the box\u2026they were worn, but not too badly, \u00a0far better and far stronger than the ones Jimmy owned.\u00a0 Reuben nodded, \u201cThey look fine, \u00a0Ma.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure?\u201d \u00a0Olivia looked doubtful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShall I try them on, to make sure?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They could hear the school bell tolling, \u00a0Olivia looked anxious \u201cYou\u2019re going to be late back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But the boots fitted well, \u00a0and Reuben knew that they would be just great for Jimmy.\u00a0 He whisked them off and replaced his own, tied up the laces and after he had kissed her cheek he ran off, \u00a0back to school.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He saw Aunt Mary Ann coming out of the newspaper offices with papers in her hand and waved to her, \u00a0the boots swinging back and forth by their laces in one hand as he ran. \u00a0 Mary Ann was too absorbed in her thoughts to even notice him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A school teacher grabbed him by the collar \u201cWhat are you doing out of class, boy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI – I\u2019m sorry, sir\u2026\u201d Reuben blustered and hid the boots behind his back, \u201cSorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHurry to \u00a0your class and don\u2019t be late again.\u201d \u00a0the teacher scowled \u201cCartwright, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He knew that meant a black mark against his name.\u00a0 But it couldn\u2019t be helped.\u00a0 He ran up the stairs and paused\u2026what was he to do now? \u00a0 Class had started, and if he went in with another pair of boots \u2026 \u00a0he already had an instinct about how people felt \u00a0about what they considered charity, \u00a0he didn\u2019t want to lose a friend by publicly embarrassing him.\u00a0 He swallowed and put his hand on the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned and Edward Evans surveyed him thoughtfully \u201cWhy are you in the corridor and not in the classroom?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Edwards eyes moved from Reubens face to the boots in the boys hands, then to the boots on the boys feet\u2026.he nodded, \u00a0 and reached out a hand \u201cGive them to me\u2026I\u2019ll deal with this now. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He pushed the door open and looked over at Miss Hayward who was conducting the class \u201cMiss Hayward, my apologies\u2026this boy was on an errand for me and got delayed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Hayward nodded and sighed, it was bad enough that the class was so restless this afternoon, but she let Reuben take his seat and said nothing. \u00a0 When Mr Evans remained at the door she raised her eyebrows \u201cYes, Mr Evans?\u00a0 Anything else?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like to borrow a boy\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnother errand?\u201d \u00a0Miss Hayward sighed<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust a very brief one\u2026.ah, \u00a0Cartairs, come here a moment please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy felt his heart sink, he slipped out from behind his desk and hurried out of the room, \u00a0one foot with its tatty sock and the other one with his old boot on.\u00a0 No one noticed because they knew they had to pay attention to Miss Hayward, they could tell from her face that she was not happy with them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mr Evans closed the door and looked at Jimmy\u2026\u201dWell now, Jimmy\u2026how good are you at keeping secrets?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy said nothing \u2026he could have said he was an expert, but decided to keep quiet.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda Ridley watched as Mary Ann walked down the street and stopped every so often to put up posters.\u00a0 Just here and there, \u00a0and done very quickly as though she didn\u2019t really want to be seen doing it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once Mary Ann was out of sight Amanda hurried across the road to read what was on the poster stuck to the post supporting her buldings\u2019 porch. \u00a0 She smiled and nodded approval as she read it, \u00a0not that she cared one iota about the vote, she had done very well without it and would continue to do well. \u00a0 She was her own woman, \u00a0independent, rich, and enterprising. \u00a0 She had a lot of common sense too, knowing that getting the vote was one thing, \u00a0there would be a lot more battles to overcome should women ever get it. \u00a0 She also knew that campaigns such as this one would cost money, \u00a0it would need some \u2018financial clout\u2019. \u00a0 In the theatre they referred to sponsors, or backers, as \u201cAngels\u201d and it seemed to her that Mary Ann Cartwright was going to need a pretty determined one to back her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs Carstairs watched Amanda return inside the building, and wondered if this would \u00a0be a good time to ask for an increase in her salary. \u00a0 She \u00a0didn\u2019t ask though as Amanda stood in the middle of the store surveying all that she had\u2026.across the road was the Mercantile that she owned, that had been run by so many old familiar names, part of the town\u2019s history now. \u00a0 She reminded herself of the livery stables, she owned that too\u2026and had owned it for years.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She fingered some fine underwear that was waiting to be put into the oyster coloured box with the scarlet ribbon\u2026some years ago she had nothing, \u00a0on the brink of losing what little she possessed and had she not gone to Adam Cartwright for help, cap in hand, she may well have lost her father;s legacy, hidden away in an old envelope and ignored for years.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned to Mrs Carstairs \u201cYou know, Mrs Carstairs, I have been very fortunate.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, ma\u2019am,\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0(and more fortunate than some of us sitting here working our fingers to the bone for you,)<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda looked at the busy little woman, who was now proceeding to fold the items she had been fingering into its box. \u00a0 What did she know about this woman apart from the fact she comes in every day, works hard, goes home to care for her son, in a few rooms owned by \u00a0old Zeb Sansom which meant that the rent would be far more than the rooms were worth\u2026 she looked at Mrs Carstairs so hard that the poor woman was afraid to look up and meet Amanda\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou rent your place from old Zeb don\u2019t you?\u00a0 I bet he charges you for it, especially since the rates have been increased\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Miss Ridley.\u201d Mrs Carstairs nodded and wondered if this was the right time, strike while the irons\u2019 hot, \u00a0isn\u2019t that what they say?\u00a0 She glanced \u00a0up and opened her mouth but nothing came out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda turned her back on Mrs Carstairs, \u00a0\u201cI have a pleasant apartment upstairs that\u2019s been empty for a while. \u00a0 I wont charge as much rent as Old Zeb does\u2026.would you be interested?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs Carstairs thought she was hearing things, she stammered a bit, a few words which may or may not have been thank you she just wasn\u2019t sure\u2026. Amanda nodded, and walked to the door, \u00a0from there she could see Mary Ann putting up another poster and she wondered what the other Mrs Cartwrights\u2019 would think about the fact that one of their group was getting involved in what was going to become such a major issue. \u00a0 Without looking back at Mrs Carstairs she said quietly \u201cI think I\u2019ll give all you ladies a raise in salary as well\u2026it\u2019s long overdue.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded to herself, yes..it was long overdue, she had been ungrateful, \u00a0it was due the skills of her employees that her fortune continued to flourish, and she had been overlong in showing her appreciation.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Chapter 21<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Despite the sun beaming in through the bedroom window, it brought no comfort to the young woman suffering in her bed.\u00a0 With eyes firmly shut against the light Peggy turned over in the bed and groaned.\u00a0 She was aware that someone was gently helping her into a sitting position and she was able to recognise Hester \u00a0looking down anxiously at her while busying herself with tidying up the bed. \u00a0 Close by was Hop Sing holding some thing very carefully in his hands for her to drink.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you feel any better, Peggy?\u201d \u00a0Hester was saying over and over as though the repetition of many words would improve the woman’s health by reducing her fever, the aches and pains, the cramps.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA little, thank you\u2026.\u201d Peggy narrowed her eyes against the light coming from the window, and accepted the cup from Hop Sing. \u00a0\u201cWhat is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVery good for you\u2026quinine\u2026and herbs\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded, dear Hop Sing, so wise, so clever\u2026.she wondered how he had discerned that she had malaria. \u00a0 She licked her lips, drank down the potion and handed the empty cup back \u201cI got it when I was in Egypt.\u00a0 Maurice had it as well\u2026but I only get an attack every so often. \u00a0 It won\u2019t last more than a few days.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre \u00a0you sure? \u201c \u00a0Hester looked into the girls face and frowned, \u00a0then at Hop Sing who nodded,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Peggy not too ill\u2026soon be much better.\u201d he said very sensibly knowing how prone to flustering Hester could be.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVery well then.\u00a0 I\u2019ll leave her to you, Hop Sing.\u00a0 You always know what\u2019s best.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop Sing nodded, too true, he thought, and about time someone realised it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy closed her eyes and shivered \u00a0Her bones ached and her head pounded but she also felt very guilty knowing that she had disappointed Mary Ann,, had proven unreliable, and wondered if her new friend would have the courage to stand on the corner of C Street handing out invitations.\u00a0 Even in her feverish state, Peggy very much doubted it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI made an arrangement with Mary Ann, to go into town today\u2026\u201d she murmured as she became aware of Hester leaving the room, \u00a0\u201cDid she come for me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, she did.\u201d Hester paused by the doorway and looked at the dishevelled young woman with some sympathy, for the angry young woman from the previous day was looking like a rumpled little girl, with the flush of fever on her cheeks and her eyes half closed with drowsiness. \u00a0 \u201cShe said she would go in anyway and hope you are feeling better tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy would have nodded if her head hadn\u2019t been aching so much.\u00a0 She leaned back into the pillows and shivered, groaned softly and tried to let the medication work its magic.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann had been a little irritated when Peggy had not appeared as had been arranged and leaving her to drive into town on her own. \u00a0 She had avoided driving in at the same time as Ann or Olivia as she didn\u2019t want to draw attention to herself and have comments from Ann ruining her rather fragile self confidence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now the last of the posters had been put up and she stepped back and admired it before she turned to walk back to the buggy. \u00a0 \u00a0The invites were still in a package, but she had no intention of handing them out.\u00a0 She had just seated herself and picked \u00a0up the reins when she heard laughter, men\u2019s laughter, and turned to see what the joke was\u2026.then she wished she hadn\u2019t as she saw her posters being pulled off the wall and screwed up, then tossed into a water trough.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Some saloon girls were lounging against the Sazarac, huddled together and watching her, then watching the men as another poster came down.\u00a0 They were laughing together, \u00a0laughing at her, \u00a0making her feel a fool.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could have cried had she not been so angry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When she drove down C street, she noticed that some of the posters were still stuck \u00a0on the walls.\u00a0 So a little spark of hope flared anew within her, and as she drove out of town she wondered what the results of the posters would bring about, and with a feeling of \u00a0renewed confidence that all would be well she flicked the reins to get the horses to return home just that much faster.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs Garston stared at the poster and the colour mantled her cheeks like a purple haze covers the early morning skies.\u00a0 Her daughter, Lucy, stood beside her reading each word with avid greediness and feeling a secret desire to laugh at her mother\u2019s mounting fury.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Mrs Garston snorted \u201cRubbish.\u00a0 Utter total rubbish.\u201d and reached out to tear the poster from the wall, Lucy put out a hand and gripped her by the wrist,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Mother, just leave it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Mrs Garston turned the full force of her eyes onto her daughter, widening them so that Lucy could get the benefit of her anger \u201cWhat are you saying, girl?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI said, leave it.\u201d Lucy replied and turned away, moving in such a manner that her body pushed Mrs Garston away from the offending poster and like a little sheep dog she managed to edge her mother further along the sidewalk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs Garston shot a vengeful look at the poster as they walked on, and then turned to Lucy \u201cYou don\u2019t – intend – to go to that meeting, do you?\u00a0 Your father will be furious.\u00a0 You know that, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFather needn\u2019t know if you don\u2019t tell him.\u201d \u00a0Lucy replied primly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Of course I\u2019ll tell \u00a0him.\u00a0 He\u2019ll be worried about you, going to a meeting to discuss – that – \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt isn\u2019t too hard to say it, Mother, it\u2019s a meeting to discuss the rights of women to vote, to have the same rights men have enjoyed for years\u2026.\u201d Lucy tossed her head and her blonde curls swayed over her shoulders as she did so, \u201cand I will be going.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLucy,\u201d Mrs Garston stood stock still in the middle of the road, \u201cLucy, I forbid it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy only shook her head again, \u00a0and walked on, ignoring her mother\u2019s demands of \u2018Lucy, \u00a0come here.\u2019 \u00a0\u2018Lucy, come back this instance.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They returned home side by side, by the chill between them was a mile wide.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann was driving out of town and quite unaware of the fact that Adam and Ben had arrived and been ordering supplies and hardware while she had been busy posting up the information about her forth coming meeting.\u00a0 She rode home feeling unsure as to how successful her attempts had been, but confident that she had, at least, done something.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben stood on the sidewalk and checked his list against the supplies that Adam was loading onto the back of the wagon. \u00a0 He pushed his hat to the back of his head and watched as the last sack of flour was set down beside the last basket of potatoes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think that\u2019s all for now,\u201d he said with some satisfaction.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam wiped his brow, \u00a0and wished, once again, that Hoss had been in town to help instead of his father who was actually no help at all.\u00a0 He glanced over to the saloon, \u201cHow about a beer before we go home?\u00a0 We\u2019ve still got to check our \u00a0order for \u00a0the barbed wire and nails from Cavendish\u2019 yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTrue enough, and a good idea.\u201d Ben grinned and complacently turned to stroll across the road \u00a0with his son by his side, \u201cY\u2019know, all those years you were at sea. .. I missed sharing a drink or two with you, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou did, huh?\u201d Adam grinned and pushed open the doors for his father to enter first, the warmth and smoky atmosphere of the saloon enveloping them both as they stepped up to the counter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The counter hand poured out the beers and pushed them over, Grant Tombs joined them and another beer was poured and pushed over to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow are things, Grant?\u201d Ben asked, \u201cSettling in all right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMore than all right,\u201d Grant said with a smile \u201cI applied for several jobs this week and have to decide which of them I prefer to take.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t notice your application for cowhand with the Ponderosa?\u201d Adam teased and winked over at Ben who smiled at the younger man who flushed a little,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m not cut out to be a cowboy, Adam.\u201d \u00a0Grant smiled slowly, \u201cbut the sheriff thinks I could be a pretty good deputy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both Cartwrights nodded thoughtfully \u201cWhat other job do you have to consider?\u201d Ben asked while Adam gulped down beer as though he had not tasted the stuff for years.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr Woods needed a clerk \u2026he thought I would do well there, I thought so too\u2026I think I may be a better lawyers clerk than a deputy.\u00a0 Just that Mr Woods kind of terrifies me while Sheriff Carney makes me feel comfortable to be with if you know what I mean.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded and was about to speak when a voice boomed from the doorway \u201cCartwright!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The three of them turned their heads and were immediately confronted with a red faced and obviously furious rancher who was waving what looked like a poster in a fist that was equal to the size of one of Hoss.\u2019 \u00a0 \u00a0Adam half rose in his seat, poised ready for trouble, while Ben stared at the rancher but forced what he hoped was a conciliatory smile to his lips.\u00a0 Grant found it suddenly difficult to breathe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the problem, friend?\u201d Ben said in his most genial manner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t call me friend\u2026do you know what this is?\u00a0 Do you?\u201d \u00a0the rancher came up close, so close that his rather corpulent belly nudged the table \u201cYou should make sure your little girls on the Ponderosa have enough to do, instead of wasting their time on this kind of rubbish.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He tossed the poster onto the table for their attention, \u00a0all three looked at it, but it was Adam who picked it up, smoothed it out and read the announcement concerning a meeting to be held regarding Emancipation for women.\u00a0 The worrying – or rather – the most worrying matter on the poster were the names of the two women who would be chairing the meeting\u2026Mrs Mary Ann Cartwright and Miss Margaret Dayton.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to attend.\u201d \u00a0he murmured quietly as he put the poster down for his father to read.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAttend?\u00a0 You think I would attend a meeting like that\u2026about that \u2026 if I even thought my wife and daughters were to attend it I\u2019d beat \u2018em black and blue!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReally?\u201d \u00a0Adam drawled, and shook his head \u201cIt seems to me that attending this meeting would be the very best thing they could do then \u2026\u201d he quirked an eyebrow “And possibly do you some good as well.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWHAT?\u201c the other man stepped back, \u00a0and glared at Ben \u201cYou should keep your women busy, tell that boy of yours that his wife should have a few more kids tied to \u00a0her apron strings to keep her harnessed where she belongs\u2026not interfering in other folks\u2019 lives..and as for you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He swung towards Adam \u201cYou always did have too big a mouth and too big an opinion of yourself, Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam ducked in time to avoid the ham of a fist that came his way, and was able to get his own fist to connect with the man\u2019s fat stomach, followed by a quick jab to the throat.\u00a0 Grant kept his hands on his glass of beer as he watched the pleasant comradely atmosphere in the saloon suddenly erupt into mayhem.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was, as Adam said some time later when drinking coffee in the sheriff’s office, \u00a0a little like the time when Thurber\u2019s bull had been let loose \u00a0\u2026 he was nursing bruised knuckles and a swollen lip at the time, while Ben had a black eye and bruised cheekbone.\u00a0 Once the fighting had got too bad Grant had wisely crawled between numerous feet and legs to get out of the saloon to locate the sheriff who brought the whole proceedings to an end by firing off his rifle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was not a happy man as he sat on the bench seat of the wagon beside his son, trundling their way back to the ranch.\u00a0 The poster had been folded neatly away in his pocket and the person he blamed for the whole thing was — Peggy Dayton.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia was waiting outside the refuge and watched her children disengage from the gaggle of boys, \u00a0Nathaniel shouted out to them and waved, \u00a0he loved the days when they came into town and could take Sofia and Reuben home. \u00a0 He waved to the boys and laughed as they waved back. \u00a0 Sofia and Reuben sat behind Olivia with Nathaniel in between them, Olivia smiled \u201cWere the boots all right? Did they fit?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerfectly, Ma.\u201d Reuben said, with a big contented smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia said nothing but wiped at her cheek with her sleeve.\u00a0 Jimmy Carstairs had actually, actually, kissed her on the cheek\u2026he said it was because he was so happy with his new boots, but she had her own suspicions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 22<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was a long ride to the Ponderosa from town and Adam was in no mood for it to seem longer by having to share the wagon with a man doing a good impression of Mount Versuvius when about to erupt. After a while he cleared his throat, ran his tongue over the edge of his teeth to make sure they were all still there and ventured to ask Ben if he were \u2018All right?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll Right! What darn fool of a question is that?\u201d Ben yelled getting that thickening in the back of his throat and making his words sound more unpleasant than he may have meant them to be, \u201cOf course I\u2019m not all right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you came out of the fight pretty well, Pa. And you held your own too, not many ..\u201d Adam paused, realised he was venturing into a dangerous zone and sighed \u201cI suppose it came as a bit of surprise then, this Meeting Mary Ann and Peggy have set up?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course it was a surprise! How is it that I knew nothing about it? Did anyone think to ask for my permission?\u201d Ben swelled out his chest, pulled his hat angrily lower to shade his eyes \u201cAnd don\u2019t drive so fast, there\u2019s a bend in the track \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam negotiated the bend in the track with his usual skill, and glanced over at Ben, he could see that his father\u2019s face was red, veins throbbed at his throat and temple just where his hairline ended and his hat cut across it like a scythe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you so angry about, Pa? That the Meeting is for emancipation of women and that they get the vote, or because they hadn\u2019t asked your permission?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you trying to put me in my place, Adam?\u201d Ben\u2019s voice had lowered, it was sharper, clipped, as though anticipating opposition.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just asking a simple question.\u201d Adam said with a sigh in his voice and a slight roll of his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes Joe know about this?\u201d Ben tapped his pocket where the offending poster had been tucked, \u201cDo you think he has any idea of what his wife is up to while he\u2019s away?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Pa. But I do know that Mary Ann would not do anything without having discussed it with him\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you think he would have agreed to this \u2026this kind of thing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam cast another quick glance at his father from the corner of his eye, the red flush was fading now, but the anger in the dark eyes was still there, somewhat mollified, but not vanquished.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf he had not agreed, then Mary Ann would not have gone ahead with it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you\u2018re quite sure of that, are you?\u201d Ben\u2019s upper lip curled into something akin to a sneer, and he shook his head \u201cI\u2019m not so sure. She\u2019s always been on about women being equal to men, and now that Peggy\u2019s here, stoking up the flames\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt wouldn\u2019t have made any difference, Pa. Mary Ann would put Joe and family before Peggy and a cause, no matter how much she believes in it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He flicked the reins, just to let the horses know that although they were jogging along at a steady pace there was no need for them to come to a full stop. Ben was silent for a full five minutes,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey should have discussed it with me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d Adam quirked his eyebrow, and shook his head, and putting on the silkiest voice he could continued \u201cI know you are the Patriarch of the family, Pa, but Mary Ann and Joe have their own lives to run, they shouldn\u2019t have to feel they need your permission for everything. They aren\u2019t children, and \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m well aware of that, but when something is going to take place that has already wrecked one saloon then it is my business, and Joe and Mary Ann need to know that there are consequences to this action. Peggy needs to know that too, she\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, I doubt if Mary Ann realised there was going to be such a reaction, but she does have the right to make her own decisions.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy\u2019s influence..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy may have influenced her, or she may not\u2026. But it is something that Mary Ann has advocated for years, and you know that, after all, she\u2019s often discussed it with you, hasn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I\u2019ve always told her that she should be grateful for what she has, stirring up trouble in town won\u2019t get her or any woman the vote any time soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed again and flicked the reins once more hoping that the horses would break into a trot just to shorten the length of time he would have to share the wagon with Ben. He said nothing for a while and sensing that Ben was as volatile as ever he ventured along a different route,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, Pa, Marie would have enjoyed all this\u2026\u201d he once against cast a sly glance over at his father, noticed Ben stiffen. \u201cShe would have admired Mary Ann for her determination to pursue this cause, and \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean your Ma?\u201d Ben frowned, and stared down his nose at the track that he could see between the horses, a long dry road leading like a hard packed thread of ribbon into the boulders and scree ahead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u2019s mother,\u201d Adam replied automatically, and before Ben could start picking fault with that he continued \u201cMarie often said that this was a man\u2019s world, she would have backed Mary Ann all the way, would no doubt have been in town today putting up those poster right along with her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be so ridiculous.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not, I\u2019m just stating the obvious. If you don\u2019t want to see it then so be it, but Marie was a staunch -\u201d he frowned, searching for the right word \u201cshe wanted women to have the rights men have, and I recall times when you said yourself that Mary Ann was the best type of wife Joe could have had because she was so like Marie\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShut up rabbiting on so\u2026\u201d Ben snapped and turned aside, slightly, so that his back was partly turned upon his son.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m just saying it as it is, Pa. I don\u2019t want you going home and shouting the odds about something and making a fool of yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWh-a-a-t?\u201d Ben spluttered and turned to glare at Adam who determinedly kept his eyes ahead of him, \u201cWhen do I make a fool of myself?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam said nothing, he let the horses run ahead, he could hear the thump thump of the sacks of flour and other items in the back of the wagon as they jostled one against the other, he hoped the potatoes hadn\u2019t broken loose from the basket and bounced onto the track, he could imagine Hop Sing\u2019s anger at finding a half empty container.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben recognised the stubborn look on his son\u2019s face and sat back so that the hard rail of the bench seat bit into his spine. It wasn\u2019t comfortable, but it was a reminder that this was time to think. He thought of Marie, his lovely flamboyant Creole wife, who had willingly given up life in New Orleans and settled on the Ponderosa to raise their family. They had had hopes of more children, perhaps daughters \u2026 how often had they planned names, and futures for all the children that were never to be. He knew Adam was right, he had always been glad to acknowledge the fact that Mary Ann was so like Marie, he had been – he was – proud of the fact that Joe had found a woman so like his own mother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stared down at the ground beneath their wagon, watched as it flashed beneath his eyes as the vehicle rolled along. This was all Ponderosa land now, Marie had never lived long enough to see how vast their empire had grown\u2026 never had all those children they had planned, and he sighed, a deep heart felt sigh that made the man seated beside him feel a pang of sympathy for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo you think Marie would have been there pasting those posters up alongside Mary Ann, huh?\u201d he growled, his voice steadier now, his pride stamped down a little.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAfter she had discussed it with you, of course.\u201d Adam replied with a slight smile on his lips, after all, it pained him even doing that, a split lip, swollen as it was, made even a grin difficult.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be sarcastic, boy.\u201d Ben murmured and relapsed into silence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Some moments slipped away and miles were eaten up as the horses trotted at a good pace now, a steady one that kept potatoes and other things upright at the back of the wagon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHester\u2019s going to cluck like a mother hen when she see\u2019s the state of us\u2026.\u201d Ben suddenly said with a slight chuckle in his voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHuh, Olivia will have my hide ..\u201d Adam replied and was grateful for small mercies, Ben had calmed down enough to be rational upon his return home, the women had no need to fear a Cartwright explosion of wrath\u2026he released his breath and decided the next hour or so would be quite interesting, he\u2019d stay awhile and enjoy the fun.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

Mary Ann sat on the big settee beside Hester with Constance on her knee, and listened as her sister-in-law told her about how unwell Peggy had been, and wondered anxiously if Malaria was contagious. Hester was explaining how people caught the illness and that no one was in any danger of catching it from the patient who was upstairs sweating it out of her system when the sound of the wagon could be heard.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGrandpa!\u201d Hannah shouted and abandoned her play to run to the door and pull it open, followed by Daniel and Hope. Erik was fast asleep oblivious to anything.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann sighed, she had felt trepidation ever since returning to the Ponderosa ranch and discovering that Ben and Adam had gone into town, they had been a mere half hour behind her departure. She had a nightmare vision of Ben going round town ripping down all the posters, and Adam going to deQuille and tearing a strip off him for printing them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Ben and Adam entered the house ..Hope in Ben\u2019s arms with her stick thin arms wrapped around his neck like a boa constrictor cuddling a pig for its dinner\u2026Mary Ann waited for the verbal explosion that was sure to come. She kept her eyes fixed on the coffee pot that Hop Sing had only just placed on the low table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen? Adam?\u201d Hester\u2019s voice, anxious, concerned and then Hannah\u2019s voice chirping up with \u201cOh no, poor Grandpa\u2026poor Uncle Adam\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened? Sit down, have some coffee\u2026.do you need a cold compress? That eye looks so sore? Adam\u2026 oh dear, you didn\u2019t lose any teeth did you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann looked at the two men and blinked fast, this could only mean further trouble, unless of course it had nothing to do with the posters, nothing to do with her at all. Her own guilty conscience pricked at her again, there could have been no other reason for the sorry state of them that she could see\u2026Ben would explode any time now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He placed Hope down and patted Hester on the cheek assuring her that he was all right, there was nothing to worry about, just a slight misunderstanding in town. Adam rolled his eyes and shrugged, kissed Hester and then swung Hannah up in the air and settled her onto his lap as he took a chair opposite Mary Ann,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBeen to town then, Mary Ann?\u201d he said while he allowed Hannah to pat his face gently in sympathy for his bruises and swollen lip.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes\u2026well\u2026you know that, don\u2019t you?\u201d her eyes swivelled to Ben who was sitting down in the other chair, and leaning forwards in order to pour coffee into one of the unused cups.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe do,\u201d Ben said immediately, and pulled out the poster from his pocket.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smoothed it out and turned it to wards her so that Hester could read what was written along with her. Then he picked up his cup and saucer and sipped the coffee,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m afraid, Mary Ann, there has been rather a mixed reception in town to your poster. Actually, we didn\u2019t meet anyone there in favour of the meeting at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam pursed his lips as best he could, he looked at his sister in law and felt sympathy for her, but then realised that Ben was really being very chivalrous in his handling of the situation and waited to see what would happen next. Hester poured him some coffee and handed over the cup and saucer which he accepted once Hannah had slid off his knee and rejoined her sister and cousin for more play.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think, my dear, it may be wise if you cancelled this meeting of yours\u2026.I don\u2019t think you will get a very pleasant audience.\u201d Ben looked at both women thoughtfully, unsure of how Hester viewed the matter of votes for women, and unsure of how Mary Ann would view the thought of cancellation of the meeting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam cleared his throat, considering how conciliatory his father was being he felt he should show him some solidarity,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNate thinks there could be an all out riot \u2026 if you intend to hold it, then he\u2019ll have to deputise half the town to give you protection. The problem is that most of the townsmen wouldn\u2019t want to be deputised to protect anyone who was going to cause – er – disruption on the domestic front.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot to mention the trouble in town with those who just like causing trouble without having a reason for doing so.\u201d Ben added.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two men sipped their coffee and looked at the two women who stared blankly at them. Hester shook her head \u201cIt\u2019s too bad, it\u2019s bullying.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann looked gratefully at her sister in law, surprised at getting such support knowing that Hester had no interest whatsoever in The Cause. She then looked at Adam \u201cWhat happened in town? What caused the fight?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis did\u2026\u201d Ben tapped the poster with his forefinger, he was quite admiring himself for his self restraint, \u201cA homesteader came wading in shouting the odds, and the next thing \u2026throwing punches. There was – quite a fight – we only came out of it alive because Grant went to get Nate.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester put her hand to her throat in dismay, Mary Ann\u2019s eyes filled with tears, and she blinked to hold them back as she stammered how sorry she was, if she had realised then she would have been more careful, more cautious.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was Peggy\u2019s idea really, wasn\u2019t it?\u201d Hester said looking at Mary Ann prompting her to defend herself but Mary Ann shook her head, and said it hadn\u2019t been, it was solely her idea and Joe had said it would be alright, he hadn\u2019t minded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned, it rather annoyed him that his son had been so amenable to such an important issue, he looked at Mary Ann with some temper flushing his face, \u201cYou should bear in mind, Mary Ann, that you don\u2019t live in the same conditions as many women in town. The homesteader who tried to pull us to pieces threatened to do the same to his wife if she were to attend this meeting\u2026. And a lot of women live under that same threat.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann said nothing, she bowed her head and whispered \u201cIt isn\u2019t fair\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam heard his father say words he had heard so often before \u201cSince when had life been fair?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the bed upstairs Peggy was unaware of the conversation in the big room beneath hers, she was only aware of feeling too hot, sticky and sick, aching in every bone and wishing that the window was open so that there could be at least some breeze drifting into the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was dreaming of pyramids, and remembering how Rachel Willoughby had told her about Adam Abdullah Karim and how she had fallen in love with this handsome Arab in his flowing robes and dark brown eyes. In her dream this same man was striding towards her with his lean body dressed in the traditional djubbeh, the long wide sleeved down that reach to his feet, and upon his head was the large square of black cloth, the kufiva kept in place with a circlet of camel hair called the \u2018iqal. She knew that Maurice was standing beside her now, and talking but it was feverish talk, nothing that mattered because she was watching this man remove his face covering, and knowing that she would recognise him and feel safe \u2026and she did, in her dream she felt her heart pounding beneath her ribs and she reached out a hand which he took in his own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam? Take me home \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled then, kissed her fingers just as she had seen him kiss her mother\u2019s all those long years ago when she watched them from the window of the ranch house\u2026and then, in her dream, she was that little girl again, looking down at a man dressed in black talking to a blonde woman, only the woman wasn\u2019t her mother, Laura, it was someone else, it was Olivia.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 23<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The music from the little music box tinkled it\u2019s way downstairs and followed Olivia as she went into the big room and sat down beside her husband. Now that the children were in bed she could turn her attention to him and listen more attentively to what really happened in town that day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It had not been easy to talk with the children around and Reuben had wanted to tell his Pa all about Jimmy and the boots, and Sofia wanted to add her protests to the fact that Jimmy had actually kissed her ..yeugh..and Nathaniel wanted to sit on his lap and hug him tight and say \u201cOh dear, oh dear\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now the boys were sleeping and only Sofia lay in drowsy half sleep as the music tinkled its tune. They knew that once the music stopped she would be asleep too, it would have wound its way to a full stop without her needing to turn the key for more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Drinks were already on the low table and a small fire glimmered in the grate. She took her seat beside him and leaned her head upon his shoulder, \u201cTell me what happened and why?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her voice was a soft murmur but he could feel the slight movement of her body against his as she spoke. He told her what happened and why, just as she requested and then made her laugh about the conversation he had had with Ben on the way home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, he blames Peggy.\u201d Adam said and leaned forward to pick up his glass, a good malt whiskey, he savoured the smell and it reminded him of the peat fires he had shared once with his crew when marooned on some Scottish island.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh – because of her talk about rights for women?\u201d her brow creased and her eyes darkened. \u201cWell, it isn\u2019t just talk with Peggy, is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced at her, noting the matter of fact tone in her voice, unusual for her. He put the glass down \u201cDon\u2019t you like Peggy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It would have surprised him, should she have said that she did not like the young woman. He had assumed that whom he liked and approved of, would be accepted by her without question. Now he felt guilty, and a little irritated at himself. He looked at her face and could see from the shadows that passed over her features that she was wrestling with words, wondering how to say the right thing, wanting to say the honest thing but not offending him by what was said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s – complicated.\u201d Olivia said and bowed her head as though that was adequate, enough and no more needed to be said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean, complicated?\u201d he leaned towards her, and raised her face to look into his, his finger beneath her chin as though she were Sofia and needed to explain some excuse she had just made to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia felt trapped now, and entwined her fingers nervously. There were so many feelings trapped inside her head that she had difficulty in finding words for them all, or setting them out in the right order. No one realised really just how hard these conversations could be, communication that could turn to confrontation, mild amusement turning to blind anger. She looked up at him,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t put it into words very well, Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you jealous of her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She thought about that, and immediately said \u201cWhat reason do I have to be jealous of her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled then, leaned forward and kissed her lips, she could taste the whiskey and looked into the dark eyes. \u201cYou have no reason to be jealous of Peggy\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere are reasons – not just the obvious one that you may be thinking of, darling.\u201d she touched his face, poor mouth, so swollen, his kiss had been so tender because it was painful, she understood that.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that\u2019s good, I\u2019m glad that you aren\u2019t jealous because you think she may have the wrong feelings for me, because she hasn\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She frowned at that, in a way he had referred to what had been a lingering shadow, an apprehension on her part of an implied threat from Peggy. Was he aware of it and yet not, something in his mind denying something that he sensed\u2026or was it true? She sighed and held his hand in hers, \u201cAdam, you know how solitary my life has been\u2026how life was on the Double D during my childhood and adolescence. That time with the Bannock was the only time my brothers and I had child companions to play with, had association of any kind really. We were isolated because of my father\u2019s – stubborn pride. I had no friends, and I suppose it was some kind of miracle that I actually met Robert, and that he loved me enough to take me away from there and marry me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded, trying to read into her words the things she was not saying\u2026about the effects of being so isolated, of having to be careful of what she said, how she said it because of old man Dent. He squeezed her fingers hoping she knew that he understood, or at least, hoped he did.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEven when I was married to Robert I made few friends, he was busy, and so clever that work kept him from home and so, to some extent, I allowed his family to – well – I suppose to replace my father by ruling my life, does that make sense to you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She frowned, eager for him to understand, implying it was important that he did, and he nodded \u201cOlivia, it would be an easy thing to have done, they were strong personalities, hard business people in a very sophisticated world. You\u2019re a reasonable and sensitive woman, I can imagine that when you were married to Robert you were like a child lost .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled then, grateful that he understood and she nodded \u201cI did feel that way, and I was very grateful to Robert because he was so patient with me. As you may recall we were self taught to some extent, but Robert taught me so much more, his library was extensive and he encouraged me to read, to develop and grow educationally. He was – different from his family in lots of ways. *Abigail understood of course, she had once been much like me and of course, you know all about what her life must have been like \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow does this relate to Peggy though?\u201d his brow creased and he stroked her face, gently with his poor bruised knuckles, following the line of her cheekbones to her jaw and then her chin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy\u2019s so experienced in life, so clever\u2026.intelligent\u2026.she has done things in her life not many women have, and she is so young.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s to be admired though, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Did she sense a slight defensiveness in his voice, but then she knew that he was always prepared to see the other side of the coin, a way to alleviate her anxieties by seeing the good. She nodded, \u201cYes, and I do admire her. I even envy her, going on \u2018digs\u2019 as she call\u2019s them, working alongside men as though they were her equals and perhaps even, of less worth than her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe intimidates you, is that it?\u201d he frowned more deeply now, and sighed, picked up his glass to sip more whiskey, it numbed the pain in his mouth a little.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose so. She\u2019s very strong minded, isn\u2019t she? And she\u2019s so angry, one can feel it boiling inside her, so much anger\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I can sense that, in fact I think she has always had that within her.\u201d and he told her about his conversation with Peggy on that long ride home, trying in some clumsy way to represent the younger woman as the defenceless, hurt, pained child that had remained within the intelligent woman, was still there, locked away but trying desperately to get out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stopped at the sadness in her face, the darkness of her eyes and she sighed and turned away \u201cIt seems to me, Adam, that there are too many people in this world who have been hurt, injured\u2026as children \u2026 and grow up lashing out or crushed under the weight of those tender but brutal years.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He leaned forward again, and once more stroked her face, then her hair \u201cDarling, sweet Livvy, I love you\u2026I wish with all my heart I could convince you that you are the most precious being in my life. You do believe me, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded, and wished she could tell him more about her fears, of her insecurities, and lack of self confidence. Had she acted so well the part of a calm, composed woman in control of her situation that it had fooled, not only him, but herself as well?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy isn\u2019t like Laura, is she?\u201d she leaned her head upon his shoulder and groped for his hand. From upstairs there was silence, Sofia was asleep and both of them had a fleeting thought, a hope, that she would sleep through the night now. No more nightmares.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, she is more like her father.\u201d Adam frowned, but then Frank had always been angry too, frustrated at being saddled with an inept childish bride. He dropped a kiss upon her brow, \u201cShe Isn\u2019t like Laura, not that I have noticed anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She hesitated before speaking next, and then said very quietly \u201cDid you love Laura very much?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was too honest a man to prevaricate, and perhaps he sensed that the answer was important to her, without hesitation he replied \u201cI thought at one time that I did\u2026I remember Pa saying that I shouldn\u2019t rush into things with her, that perhaps the idea of having a wife and daughter was what I loved, and he was right in a way, not entirely, because I did care for Laura, genuinely cared. She was – in a way – lost, and I wanted to protect her, guide her along to safe harbour \u2026if you know what I mean\u2026 but I knew a long time before Will, well, a while before then, that I didn\u2019t love her as a woman should be loved, in the way I love you. Yes, she needed a strong man, but somehow I seemed to annoy her more than encourage her, and I realised that with Frank out of her way, she was really quite a strong woman, a stubborn one too. She didn\u2019t need my protection. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI find it strange to look at Peggy and think of her as having had the chance of being what Sofia is \u2026your step.daughter\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled, painful though it was, \u201cThere is a difference, sweet heart. Peggy would always have been my step-daughter, Laura would have made sure I knew that, but Sofia is my little girl, my daughter\u2026and I thank you for her.\u201d and he leaned down to kiss her again \u201cOuch.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann had returned to her home and wished with all her heart that Joe had been there to welcome her with his smiles, good humour and teasing. The house felt emptier than ever with his absence and although she tried to involve herself in her children\u2019s play she felt miserable.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In a way the situation with the posters had made her feel humiliated. It was the first grand gesture of independence she had ever made and it was crushed down, and Ben for all his pleasantness had made her feel that she had gone against Cartwright honour in going ahead without his knowledge.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She wondered if he would have forbidden her to go ahead, and if he had done so, what would she have done? She cuddled Constance and put her to bed, tucked her in and looked down at her, stroked the plump cheeks and smiled when the infant smiled back up at her,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI only want you to have a better world, my pet, the chance to be more than I was \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Constance blew bubbles and chattered, grabbing at her mother\u2019s curls and laughing at Mary Ann\u2019s attempts to pull free. But it was true, Mary Ann thought, she did want her little girl to have the same kind of education as Daniel would have because by rights, as a boy, it would be so easy. There would be college \u2026 the doors of which would stand open for a boy like Daniel but remain closed for a girl like Constance. And if a girl could squeeze through those \u2018hallowed portals\u2019 as Peggy had done, what kind of life would that mean for her? She didn\u2019t want Constance to have to fight every inch of the way for any Degrees that would provide her with a career.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sat back and frowned, stroked the chubby dimpled fingers that reached out for her\u2026.but what if Constance did not want a career? What if she and millions of little girls would grow up wanting what their mothers had now\u2026a home, a husband to love and be loved by, and children \u2026security and love. What if after the struggle to get the vote nothing changed anyway? What if, should they get the vote the people they voted into power said that women could become soldiers, seamen, explorers\u2026fight battles, be killed, become killers\u2026what if, what if \u2026the words pounded in her brain and she gripped her child\u2019s hand so tight as the thoughts overwhelmed her that Constance whimpered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She walked over to the window where not so very long ago she had looked down in a snowstorm waiting for Joe to come home and her labour had started with Daniel. Had Bridie not been there, she would have been all alone\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Women had done alright all these years really, hadn\u2019t they? They had achieved wonders in their own fields, and wasn\u2019t it true that there were things that men would never do efficiently, not like a woman could\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her head was aching, and once assured that Constance was asleep she made her way to the bedroom where Daniel waited for her to tell him a story. But he was too drowsy now, he wanted to sleep, he kissed her, hugged her and leaned his curly head against her shoulder and she stroked him gently, thought of the empty bed in the other room, wondered how Joe was and wished once again that he was home. She so needed to talk to him\u2026about everything.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 24<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill you be going to the party on Saturday?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann poured out lemonade into a glass and leaned back into her chair while she waited \u00a0for her companion to answer. \u00a0 It was a pleasantly warm day and they were seated in the garden at the back of the house where the view of the river was the most splendid.\u00a0 Daniel and Constance were playing \u00a0together, quite happily, and for a moment she watched them, Daniel so careful with his little sister, showing her how to build the bricks higher and higher.\u00a0 She had almost forgotten her question when Peggy answered, \u00a0 \u201cI don\u2019t think so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned her attention to the other woman now and sipped her lemonade, and then reached out to push the plate of little cakes towards Peggy. \u00a0\u201cWhy not?\u00a0 I thought you had a beau, someone to take you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy shook her head, \u00a0so Hester had told Mary Ann all about Abel Greigson\u2019s visit, ah well, she supposed that was what sisters, even if only by law, would do.\u00a0 After all what else was there to talk about?\u00a0 She sighed and shook her head again,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, \u00a0I really am not interested in getting to know Mr Greigson . \u00a0\u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann shrugged, it hardly mattered to her, she had other things on her mind after all, and she sighed \u201cWhat about the meeting the following week?\u00a0 Are \u00a0you still wanting to \u00a0go and expound on the importance of the vote for women?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course.\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0Peggy was not sure what to make of the question, or rather, the way it had been asked. \u00a0 She glanced at Mary Ann and watched as the other woman smiled at her children, her mind obviously more occupied by their play than on such an important issue as the vote. \u00a0 \u201cI thought you were interested, Mary Ann.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am.\u201d \u00a0 Mary Ann replied with a distracted air, and a little laugh when the bricks fell down and Constance began to cry, she leaned forward and stretched out her hands to gather her little chick into a hug and then place her on her knee, \u00a0\u201cI just wasn\u2019t sure you would be well enough to go, \u00a0after all you have been quite unwell.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy shrugged \u201cYou didn\u2019t seem to think I was so unwell as to miss the dance on Saturday?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann shrugged slightly, and after kissing the top of Constance\u2019s head put her daughter back onto the grass where the child toddled off to join Daniel.\u00a0 She turned back to look at Peggy \u201cBen says that there could be trouble, at the meeting. \u00a0 You know that he and Adam were beaten up in the saloon, \u00a0and Wang Lee tells me that there is a lot of talk about it.\u00a0 There could be trouble, riots even\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy shrugged \u201cThere are always riots in towns like this, any little excuse and the men fight, \u00a0but I suppose you don\u2019t go into town often enough to realise that\u2026.\u201d she paused \u201cWhen I was younger it seemed men fought for no reason whatsoever all the time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat was then, Peggy, some things have changed.\u00a0 There is a semblance of civilization in Virginia City now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy backed down, true enough, things had changed, she should appreciate that after all how was she to judge a town that she had left as far back as 1862.\u00a0 A year after father had been killed.\u00a0 There had been a war since then, and a President assassinated, whole nations of Indians removed from their native lands, the Battle of the Little Big Horn\u2026.so much had happened and yet, sometimes, it seemed as though she were still that little girl all that time back then.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill you be going to the party?\u201d she asked Mary Ann, hoping it would soothe things between them while she tried to think of what could have made her friend so tetchy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe isn\u2019t here, I couldn\u2019t go without him with me, and anyway, Hester won\u2019t go without Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to miss out because of them\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can hardly go on my own.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy glanced over at Mary Ann, and saw the stubborn little pout on her pretty mouth, \u00a0and the way she looked down her retrousse nose. \u00a0 It was no wonder Joe had fallen in love with her, she mused, she was such a pretty woman, \u00a0with good taste too.\u00a0 The way she dressed so carefully, teased her hair into such a well arranged style.\u00a0 Peggy sighed, she turned her gaze away and wondered if Laura would have loved her more had she turned out more like Mary Ann.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann felt uncomfortable. \u00a0 She had been delighted when Hester has suggested that Peggy \u2018recuperate\u2019 after her illness at her home.\u00a0 With Joe away she was lonely and it was good for her to have someone to share time with, especially, as Hester said, someone with whom she had so much in common.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked over at her companion, at the stubborn chin and firm mouth, \u00a0the strong features.\u00a0 She knew without asking that Peggy resembled her father more than Laura, whom Joe had described as a fragile doe eyed slim woman when she had once asked him about \u00a0her. \u00a0 There was nothing apparently fragile about Peggy. \u00a0 \u00a0Even her hair, pulled back and tied with a ribbon that looked as \u00a0though it had been used a hundred times already, was not the shimmering gold that Joe said Laura\u2019s hair had been\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy shrugged and picked up one of the cakes which she proceeded to nibble, and then she smiled \u201cThese are just like how Hop Sing would make them.\u00a0 I can remember he would make batches of them for us \u2026Adam and I would sit on the porch and chatter away, and we would clear a whole plate of them before \u00a0you could say Jack Robinson.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWas that when Adam was – ill?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAfter he had that fall, yes. \u00a0 He was in a bad state when they brought him home from the house, Mother didn\u2019t talk about it very much but I can remember seeing him lying on the bed, quite prone\u2026hardly breathing at all\u2026 I thought he was going to die and started to cry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shivered now, even the memory was quite unbearable.\u00a0 It had been too soon after faher’s death, \u00a0she realised now, and seeing him lying there, had made her think of her father and fear the same outcome for Adam. \u00a0 She gulped down some lemonade,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou must have been company for him, Peggy.\u201d Mary Ann smiled over at her and the other woman straightened her back and nodded, nibbled a little more of the cake.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEveryone seemed to be so busy. \u00a0 Things had to be done on a ranch of course, and Adam had his exercises \u2026but mostly he was on \u00a0his own..\u00a0 Mother always seemed to be \u00a0busy too, \u00a0in town, or at the Running D.\u00a0 I remember complaining about being bored and she said I should remember how boring it must be for him, for Adam.\u00a0 That I shouldn\u2019t be so selfish\u2026so I began to spend more time with him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re very fond of him, arn\u2019t you?\u201d Mary Ann said in a lazy tone of voice and a slight smile on her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I did think he was going to be my father for a while \u2026of course I was fond of him.\u00a0 I still am\u2026\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0and the hard edge to the words made Mary Ann feel uneasy.\u00a0 Perhaps, she pondered, Peggy was not so \u2018tough\u2019 as she tried to make out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They lapsed in to silence again, nibbling at cake, sipping lemonade.\u00a0 The children came and leaned upon Mary Ann\u2019s knee so were fed cake and allowed some sips of the lemonade. \u00a0 When Constance curled herself up on her mother\u2019s lap for a little nap, Daniel went to find his own toys and was happy to play with them while his mother and Peggy sat in the sun.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe should think over what we are going to say at the meeting.\u201d Peggy said stretching out her legs beneath her skirts and thinking how hard it is to think of serious things when it was such a lovely day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but it will be a question and answer debate too\u2026\u201d Mary Ann replied and \u00a0stroked her little girls soft hair absent mindedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy closed her eyes, the brilliance of the sun, even though it was just spring time, made everything behind the lids seem blood red.\u00a0 Her own blood.\u00a0 She sighed and smiled \u201cTell me how you met Joe\u2026what was he like?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann relaxed, this was much easier to discuss, Peggy wouldn\u2019t be so prickly if she told her the story of the time she met Joe\u2026and Hoss and Adam of course\u2026 she closed her eyes and began her narrative as though she were telling the children a fairy tale, \u201cWell, it was like this, my brother Frank and I \u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy smiled, \u00a0her friend\u2019s voice droned on, \u00a0and she escaped back to the things she liked to think about, \u00a0to the days when she and Adam Cartwright would sit together on the porch eating little cakes and drinking lemonade\u2026perhaps he drank coffee\u2026it didn\u2019t really matter which, \u00a0she sighed, she had chattered to him feeling such a grown up because he was listening, paying attention, \u00a0not being patronising, or pretending to listen \u00a0like some adults do, but really listening and asking questions, \u00a0and telling her about poetry, and some of the most wonderful writers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She remembered coming home from school one day and asking him if he knew what a pyramid was, \u00a0because they had been told about a pyramid in class. \u00a0 And he had asked if it had anything to do with geometry \u00a0and she had shaken her head, not knowing what geometry was, \u00a0and told him a lot of slaves had built them, the teacher said Moses was involved somehow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, a pyramid is a building, a very large building, that form a triangular shape, very wide at the bottom and coming to a point at the top.\u201d \u00a0he had leaned down and drawn the shape in the dust .\u00a0 He had taken to bringing a stick with him so that he could draw or write things down for her, it had become their little \u2019habit\u2019 \u00a0\u201cSometimes there could be four sides to the pyramid.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd they were big?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cExtremely big.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs there one on the Ponderosa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs there one in America?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere is \u00a0something similar \u00a0known as the Cahokia Mounds*\u2026it was built by Indians who lived a very long time ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd that is in America?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, around the Mississippi River in southern Illinois\u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd did Moses build it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, the Cahokia Indians did. \u00a0 It was very big, Peggy, there were buildings built around it, which made it bigger than some European cities.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had listened to him describe the mounds, and the pyramids\u2026and what they were used for, and the wonderful things that had been found in them because they had been burial chambers for kings and as he had talked she had imagined herself walking through the chambers, \u00a0seeing the colours painted on the walls\u2026and for about a week thereafter that was all she had wanted to talk about, \u00a0pyramids and dead people. \u00a0 He began to bring her books about archaeology, pictures of the pyramids, the hieroglyphics, the sarcophagus\u2018 that had been discovered, and he had shown her things he had found and kept ..artefacts he called them\u2026from his journeys with his Pa on \u00a0that long journey to the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Perhaps that had \u00a0been when the seed to explore those places had first been sown.\u00a0 Long ago on the porch front of the Ponderosa ranch with a crippled man in a wheelchair drawing sketches of pyramids in the dust.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could feel the sun on her shoulders as she bent over the sand, carefully flicking it away to reveal the item that had been dropped and lost oh so many hundreds of years before and leaving her to wonder who had dropped it, what had they been doing, did they miss it? Had they searched for \u00a0it?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned her head and smiled at Mary Ann, \u201cI was listening\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann frowned, \u00a0she didn\u2019t like to say that she didn\u2019t think so because that was like calling her friend a liar, \u00a0but the dreamy expression on Peggy\u2019s face had certainly not been due to being caught up in the romance of the story she was spinning, of that she was quite sure.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke and Marcy Dent always enjoyed the time they had to visit Olivia and Adam. \u00a0 If Adam were home the men would wander off and talk, discuss the merits of cattle raising, what breeds did best, how many they had lost in the winter this year, \u00a0or other aspects of ranching. \u00a0 Sometime if Adam were working on the range Luke would leave his wife and the babies with Olivia and ride out to join him. \u00a0 It was good to ride through the Ponderosa for any reason no matter how long it would take for him to locate his brother in law.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But not to day.\u00a0 On this particular day Luke wanted to find Olivia home and if Adam were also home so much the better. \u00a0 The little ones were deposited on the floor to play, Nathaniel gathered up his toys to make sure they would be safe, allowing them just one \u2026each \u2026before settling down to watch them carefully before trusting himself and them, to play together.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke listened to the ladies chatter for \u00a0a good half hour before he slipped in the question he had wanted to ask since his visit to Virginia City some days earlier, \u201cHow is Sofia, \u00a0Livvy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSofia?\u201d Olivia looked surprised and glanced over at Marcy to see if there was any hint from her as to why Luke would ask.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, your daughter?\u201d \u00a0Luke smiled and took the cup and saucer from Olivia\u2019s hand with a twinkle in his eyes, \u00a0\u201cWe saw her in town with Bridie and Paul\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia smiled, nodded and gave a little laugh, \u201cOh yes, her reward for enduring a trip to the caverns with Peggy and the boys.\u00a0 Adam thought the least he could do was give her some reward for her patience, she was a little scared it seems and it was a long ride for a little girl.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy?\u201d Marcy asked and raised her eyebrows, \u201cDo I know her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you wouldn\u2019t\u2026\u201d and very sketchily she gave Marcy and Luke all the information about Peggy she wanted to share out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI remember Frank Dayton\u2026\u201d Luke said with a crease in his brow, \u201cHe was a loud mouth and always trouble.\u00a0 So he did settle down and marry?\u00a0 Made something of the place did he?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded, realised once again that Luke would have known \u00a0Frank only a little as it was during the time Virginia City was out of bounds to the Dents, \u00a0and just prior to when Luke and Philip had run off to join the army. \u00a0 She sighed, and decided not to go into the story of the Adam and Laura romance, suffice to say they were left with the impression that there had been a happy little family living on the \u00a0Running D at one time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy did you ask about Sofia?\u201d Olivia now asked as a way of avoiding further discussion about Peggy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, \u201c Luke shrugged and wondered how to discuss the matter without giving his sister nightmares that may or may not be necessary. \u00a0\u201cI often wondered if she had gotten over the time she was missing from home. \u00a0 Some children are very resilient but somehow I wouldn\u2019t have put Sofia into that category.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia lowered the cup into it s saucer very slowly, and looked at Luke thoughtfully, \u201cAs it happens she has been having nightmares again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, any reason why?\u201c Marcy asked, all concern now for she loved Sofia almost as much as her own children.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBridie was reading her a story\u2026Alice\u2019s Adventures in wonderland\u2026not realising that Sofia always connects that story with what happened to her in Bodie.\u00a0 As soon as she heard the name \u2018Alice\u2019 she just didn\u2019t want to hear any more and had nightmares\u2026\u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke nodded and frowned, \u201cThere isn\u2019t any other reason is there?\u00a0 She hasn\u2019t seen or heard of anyone in town perhaps who could be connected with Bodie?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia shook her head \u201cNo, of course not. \u00a0 Adam has let her have his muscial box, so if she wakes up during the night she can play it, it calms her down, but it also alerts us to the fact that she may need us. \u00a0 But what do you mean, \u00a0Luke?\u00a0 Mrs Soames and Ella were both from Bodie and \u00a0involved in that affair, and Sofia was more than happy to have been with them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She frowned, a little crinkle in her brow, and looked anxiously at Luke.\u00a0 She knew her brother well enough to know he wouldn\u2019t have asked for no reason, but Luke had a blank face and it was obvious that if he knew anything he was not going to say a word to her about it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Just for a while there was an uncomfortable silence between the adults, while the three children chattered and laughed amongst themselves. \u00a0 \u00a0Cheng Ho Lee came in with a tray bearing cookies and lemonade\u2026 and immediately the atmosphere returned to its usual conviviality.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 25<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy was scrubbing away at the lemonade that had been spilled over her skirt as a result of Daniel tripping over his own feet and falling into the little table. The jug of lemonade had tilted and gone over before either woman could prevent it, after all, Mary Ann\u2019s first concern was to make sure her little boy was unharmed, while Peggy\u2019s Was to get out of the way as fast as possible. But, even so, the lemonade had splashed over her skirt and left the dark stain as a result.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann had put Constance into her cot to sleep, and had calmed Daniel who had got the impression from the \u2018other lady\u2019s\u2019 reaction that he had done a very bad thing while Peggy swabbed down her clothing. Mary Ann was thinking how odd it was that one could strike up a close friendship with a stranger one day and then find her so annoying the next, when she heard the knock on the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Wang Lee opened and smiled at the young woman who presented herself in the doorway, and who asked very politely if Mrs Cartwright, Mrs Mary Ann Cartwright to be precise, was home and available for a short while.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was a long way from town and Wang Lee knew that no one travelling so far would be turned away from any of the homes on the Ponderosa. He stepped aside and waved a hand to indicate she could enter and as she did so, Mary Ann came into view.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two women looked at one another; one took a deep breath and the other blinked her grey eyes in surprise. \u201cLucy?\u201d exclaimed the latter, and looked over her visitors\u2019 shoulder to see if Mr and Mrs Garston were about to appear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy going anywhere without her parents was unheard of, but, here she was, clutching her purse nervously and smiling rather frantically as she stood in the doorway. Mary Ann looked at Wang Lee, \u201cI think we will need more lemonade\u2026unless you would prefer coffee, Lucy\u2026Miss Garston I mean.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLucy, please call me Lucy. Coffee would be perfect, thank you. I always forget just how far it is from town to get here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut what are you doing here, and on your own? Where are your parents? Do they know you are here?\u201d Mary Ann asked and then gave a little laugh and shook her head, \u201cI am sorry, Lucy\u2026how rude of me to bombard you with questions and keep you standing in the porch. Come along with me, we can sit out side in the sun\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy didn\u2019t like to say that she had had enough sun during the ride to the Ponderosa, but she refrained from making a word so followed Mary Ann out to the garden, noticing the attractive layout of the house as she passed through the rooms and admiring the pictures and furniture. By the time she had arrived outside, where Wang Lee had already provided an extra chair, she had decided that should she ever marry – which would be a miracle with parents like hers – she would have a house just like this one.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy was already seated and looked at the girl with a slight frown, but after introductions were made she did smile and shake the proffered hand extended to her. Lucy sat down and sighed,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re rather my heroine,\u201d she said simply, \u201cEver since you rode into town the other day wearing pants. My mother was horrified\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe must be very easily offended then.\u201d Peggy laughed and watched as Wang Lee set down the coffee fixings, and put down a fresh plate of cookies.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe is, she\u2019s famous for being easily offended. She hasn\u2019t yet realised that we are no longer part of New York Society, and not so long ago women dressed in pants because they had to scrabble in the dirt for gold and silver along with the men.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy looked with fresh eyes of interest at this newcomer, she nodded with respect, and smiled \u201cYes, that is just how it was\u2026and in some places it still is. Women work along with men as equals, but \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what I came to talk about\u2026your meeting, next week\u2026I saw the posters, I think you are both very brave.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She paused, realised she was gushing and bowed her head to look at her hands which she had clasped in her lap. Perhaps Mary Ann would understand how difficult it had been for her to make this journey, alone, but this bright eyed sterner faced young woman looking at her so closely would not, so she waited for one of them to speak and tried to sort out the words she wanted to say next.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann poured out coffee and handed Lucy a cup, she smiled \u201cBrave or mad?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps both.\u201d Lucy laughed, a warm mischievous chuckle, and she looked from one to the other of them \u201cMother is furious about it, although she will attend of course, she would hate to miss it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about your father?\u201d Mary Ann said, a smile in her eyes as she looked over at Peggy whom she knew was already more than pleased at the visit of this young woman and warming to the young woman more and more as the minutes ticked by.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy father, surprisingly, told me to attend. He said it would be educational, in fact, he said it would be historical.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe agrees with women having the vote?\u201d Peggy said, her eyebrows raised, and trying to recall if she had ever met this Mr Garston.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think he does. I think he believes that women like my mother need to have the vote just to keep them busy and occupied with more important issues than \u2026gossiping all the time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy frowned, she wasn\u2019t sure if she liked that classification of such a serious subject. In some ways it made sense, perhaps that was what had been wrong all along, too many women had too little to do and too much to say. Properly diverted such energies could be an asset to the cause. She nodded thoughtfully, she would have to remember to put that in to her speech at the meeting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what about yourself?\u201d Mary Ann asked, picking up the plate and presenting it to Lucy who politely took a cookie, \u201cHow do you feel about the matter of emancipation for women?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cExcited. It\u2019s about time we had a voice\u2026I mean \u2026a legal voice, representatives for women in Government. I\u2019ve read all the books in the library about it\u2026and Miss Godfrey, the new librarian, has promised to order a whole new batch, she said that there will be a lot more interest in the matter after the meeting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t think it will cause any trouble, do you?\u201d Peggy asked slyly, looking over at Mary Ann who chose to ignore the question but Lucy just laughed again,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course it will. Trouble is already brewing as we speak\u2026\u201d she sipped her coffee, and smiled \u201cIt should be fun.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel was fascinated by his little cousins who looked so alike that he couldn\u2019t tell them apart, not that it mattered anyway to him. He had devised a new game, he ran around the big table, round and round and round, and they would follow him, crawling along as fast as their legs and arms could carry them. Sometimes he was in the lead and sometimes he came up so close to them that he nearly fell over them at which times he would throw his arms in the air and shout \u201cGame.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Even he didn\u2019t know why he said that, but it made the twins laugh and gurgle, and sit up and observe him with smiles on their duplicate faces. Each would then put a plump thumb in their mouths and watch with twinkling eyes as he would take his position in front of them and start running again. Then off they would go, dribbling with delight, plump legs and toes propelling them forwards, little bottoms in the air moving along after the little boy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia didn\u2019t want to think about Sofia\u2019s dreams, or the little musical box spinning out the melancholy tune. But Luke was showing an interest in her daughter that neither Mary Ann or Hester had shown., not just lately. Mary Ann had been so full of this emancipation nonsense and Hester so frustrated with Peggy being in the house that when she had mentioned Sofia\u2019s nightmares to them they had been dismissed, in a loving kindly way of course.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019ll grow out of it.\u201d Mary Ann said, \u201cShe is still very young.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo long as you are there, you and Adam, she\u2019ll soon be reassured that all is well.\u201d Hester had said before turning to feed Erik who was, to Olivia\u2019s thinking, a bit like a cuckoo in the nest of fledglings, getting fatter and fatter so that soon he would no doubt push Hannah and Hope right out of the nest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But then they didn\u2019t know what it had been like, not really. Those weeks when Sofia had disappeared, and she had been left with a gaping hole in her insides that seemed to be growing day by day so that it was consuming her. Then when Adam left home to search for the child, and Reuben so guilt ridden\u2026and it had seemed there had been nothing of her left to give him, or Nathaniel, she couldn\u2019t love them, not as they needed it then.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had said, before he had gone off as well, that Mary Ann and Hester were different to her. That Mary Ann would never have gone searching for her children in a blizzard as she had done, because Mary Ann was the type of woman who would have collapsed and been on sedatives until the child had been found, and Hester \u2026she would have existed in a nightmare, wandering around the house caring for her children as though in a dream\u2026no, Ben had said, neither of them would have found the strength physically or emotionally to have gone searching for the child as she had done.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But Olivia did not think Ben had been right there, even though she had passed no opinion of her own. What she did think now was that perhaps they believed that because she had been strong then, she could take Sofia\u2019s nightmares in her stride, so why fuss?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But Olivia\u2019s strength came from love, from the love she gave and received from Adam. That love was based on trust, and the confidence she had in the power Adam had to achieve the impossible,or so it seemed, at times. Even now, with his patience with Sofia, sitting there telling her stories before she went to bed in the hope that his stories would over ride the fears of being \u2019Alice\u2019 again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry,\u201d Luke said as he leaned towards her and took hold of her hand, \u201cI was just worried about her. Now that I have children of my own, I got to wondering, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t really believe that, Luke was caring and sensitive true enough after all he had lost a child of his own years ago, a child who had died. Not a child who wailed at night because she didn\u2019t want to be called \u2019Alice\u2019.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you remember when we were with the Bannocks?\u201d he said quietly now, stroking her hand gently as though she had been sick and needed gentle handling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, of course I do\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMother was ill\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe was pregnant and – Pa wasn\u2019t very sympathetic.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe thought all the wrong things\u2026\u201d Luke said with a cold frost to his words and dismissed his father from the conversation, \u201cBut do you remember having nightmares? Bad dreams after wards?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not at all. I have thought of that, Luke. But I thought that perhaps it was because Mother was with us, and besides we had such good times with them, didn\u2019t we? You and Phil, you never did any chores at all, did you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke laughed, a throaty chuckle that made Marcy smile \u201cNo, none at all. I rather liked the way they were thinking, and they treated Mother like a very special person, as she was, but I did wonder about yourself. How it had affected you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think, after the initial shock, that I was very happy to be away from ..from Father. I realised for the first time, how lonely and isolated I was.. I made friends\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and when you got back home? \u201c Luke looked into her face, his eyes dark and thoughtful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI missed them all. But then I was worried about Mother\u2026and sometimes it was as though we had walked out of sunshine and into shadow. Mother would quote me the Psalm, you know, Psalm 23…she was very unhappy, wasn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Marcy leaned forward \u201cWhat has this to do with Sofia?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026\u201d Luke said honestly, \u201cJust that we experienced a traumatic event in our childhood, and survived well enough. Sofia\u2019s experience was – different- in a way I think that it messed with her head\u2026you know, being absorbed as someone she wasn\u2019t, being possessed by those women as though she was theirs, not yours, she was \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlice?\u201d Marcy said quietly and looked at Olivia whose green eyes had darkened and whose face had paled at the expression on Luke\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLuke. Do you think they\u2019re here, in town?\u201d Olivia whispered, and her fingers tightened together, laced and intertwined, \u201cI thought Rosemarie had died\u2026but Katherine? Is she here in town?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke shook his head \u201cI don\u2019t know, dear, I was just worried, just wondering \u2026but if she is, then I\u2019ll find her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam will\u2026\u201d Olivia said with some heat in her words and her fingers parted to form two fists that balled in the lap of her skirts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t forget, I know Katherine from a long time back\u2026Adam saw her, that\u2019s true, but not clearly, emotions can blind a man and I think his sights were more on Rosermarie than Katherine. You have to remember, he had just found his daughter, and Rosemarie was the force trying to prevent him from leaving with her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded, and then looked at Marcy \u201cAdam wants to take Reuben camping this weekend. \u201c she looked then at Luke \u201cCan I bring the children, to the Double D?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke sat back in his chair and nodded, he looked over to observe the three children, two of them now fast asleep while the third ran with a toy donkey in his hands, keeping to the very edge of the big rug. He nodded, and as he turned his gaze back to his wife and sister, thought it would be a good time to take a trip to Virginia City again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 26<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam Cartwright turned over the page of the broadsheet and continued to read.\u00a0 It<\/p>\n

seemed to him that considering how bored DeQuille had been on the subject of the conquistadors and the excavation he had actually turned out a good article about them based on the latest information Peggy had given him. \u00a0 Anyone who had been involved in Maurice Stevens’ dig the previous year couldn’t fail to be impressed by the fact that those long dead had been afforded a decent burial, some in ancient family crypts in the family vaults on some faraway estate in Spain, others in more humble resting places…a grave beneath a shady tree in some cemetery perhaps..and those where no family could be located to claim them had been cast in a different corner with Spanish soil covering them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It seemed to him Peggy’s assignment had been accomplished and there was little point in her remaining at the Ponderosa much longer. He rolled the newspaper neatly and still deep in thought tucked it in with the mail.\u00a0 Having secured the rolls of barbed wire on the back of the wagon he was about \u00a0to clamber onto the wagon seat when he saw Luke riding slowly by, weaving his horse in and out of the traffic.\u00a0 He raised a hand to catch his attention but failed to do so.\u00a0 The man looked as though he had something serious on his mind and if Adam had not promised to deliver the wire within a specified time he would have followed his brother in law, bought him a glass of beer and cajoled him into revealing what was on his mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He still dithered however, then rubbing \u00a0long fingers along his jawline gave himself a mental shake … Luke was a private man and would not appreciate his interest which he \u00a0knew his brother in law would consider as interference.\u00a0 He took his seat, flicked the reins and allowed the horses to take him and the wagon into the stream of traffic leading out if town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale observed the blond haired man with a beady stare behind her pince.nez which she removed slowly as she watched him make his way towards her. A polite man she thought as Luke removed his hat and smiled rather shyly at her. \u00a0 She nodded at him as though to encourage him to approach and then asked if there was anything in particular with which she could help him.\u00a0 Luke glanced over his shoulder and then back at her ” I believe you have an assistant here by name of Elizabeth Godfrey?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale’s lips thinned imperceptibly and she adjusted the pince-nez more firmly upon the bridge of her nose, “And what is that to do with you, young man.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke cleared his throat and felt awkward after all he was no longer justifiably of an age to be called a young man, and he was not too sure how to explain his association with Elizabeth. \u00a0 He was only too grateful that there was no one in the library to see his discomfort but, reminding himself that he had a perfectly legitimate reason for being there, he stepped closer to her desk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“I was a close friend of Miss Godfreys fianc\u00e9, and wanted to pay my respects to her.\u00a0 It’s been some years since I saw her last…”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale regarded him thoughtfully and then gave a sharp nod of the head as though in acceptance of what he had \u00a0said but still wasn’t sure of him, however as she picked up some books she did tell him that this was Miss Godfreys half day and he had missed her by a mere half an hour.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“That’s a nuisance, Ma’am, I really do need to speak to her on a matter of some urgency.\u00a0 Could you tell me where she is staying while in town.?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rather reluctantly Miss Tyndale gave him the address and watched as he quickly left, striding down the corridor to the exit as though he hadn’t a moment to lose. \u00a0 Once he reached the side walk Luke stood on \u00a0for a moment to get his bearings before crossing the road and making his way to the guest house. \u00a0 It was Mr Albierno who saw him there and assured him that Miss Godfrey was absent but had told his wife that morning that she intended to do some shopping and get to know the town better.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke thanked the old man and left the boarding house, but he had no sooner stepped out onto the street than Grant Tombs \u00a0approached him, and after greeting him warmly insisted that Luke join him for a celebratory drink as he had just got himself work as a clerk.for Mr Hiram Woods.\u00a0 The younger man’s eagerness to share his good news with him was irritating to Luke who really wanted to just set off and find Elizabeth but Grant’s friendly face, the realisation that the lad was in a town of strangers compelled him to accept the invitation.\u00a0 Inside the Bucket of Blood he was greeted by Roy Coffee and Clem Foster leading Luke to feel his mission was never going to be accomplished by the time Marcy would expect him home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth Godfrey had relaxed sufficiently into her role as librarian to enjoy her stroll around \u00a0town.\u00a0 She had refrained from removing the spectacles and the severe hair style \u00a0as she was more than aware that someone may pass \u00a0her by and recognise her as the librarian.\u00a0 That was by far preferable to people wondering who she was and asking questions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sometimes she thought she was being overly cautious and even scolded herself for keeping up the charade but since meeting Luke at the restaurant she had convinced herself of the necessity of maintaining her false identity. It had shaken her more than she had initially thought it would, meeting him so soon after coming to Virginia City.\u00a0 Her mind had gone over and over the conversation they had shared in Bodie when he had told her about his sister, how she was suffering from the loss of her child and how he had pleaded, begged, her to help them take Sofia home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Strange how that time in Bodie seemed so long ago. Almost as though it had happened to someone else.\u00a0 Thinking about it now brought to mind, yet again, how happy she had been despite everything else that was happening around her because \u00a0there had been a little girl who had loved her, put her arms around her neck, called her Aunt Katherine … and momentarily reality was held at bay and joy of joys she had felt loved.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She paused by Miss Ridleys Ladies Emporium and looked at herself in the glass.\u00a0 Her sombre reflection looked back, and she thought she looked a rather sad figure in her prim costume. \u00a0 She noticed a man dressed in black sitting on a wagon laden with barbed wire came into view.\u00a0 He looked as though his mind was faraway on other things,a slight smile on his face and he whistling a tune softly as though it amused him to do so while he allowed his thoughts to wander .<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But it was a fleeting glimpse, and she didn\u2019t recognise him, and after a few minutes she stepped inside the building and lost herself in the sights and smells and delights of Amanda\u2019s Ridleys haven for women.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam Cartwright flicked the reins and was oblivious to the sight of the woman who had created such horror to his family not so very long ago.\u00a0 He whistled softly and allowed the horses to speed up a little once they had left the main thoroughfare of the town.\u00a0 His mind drifted to the weekend arrangements he had in mind with Reuben, and reminded himself that he needed to be home early in order to get preparation for the trip under way.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

First though he had to get the barbed wire to the location where his father had wanted it to go, and not for the first time he found it more than irksome to have to do such irritating tasks, such time consuming errands. Yet again he had to remind himself that he was no longer the Commodore in charge of hundreds of men and ships. \u00a0 That time was long past now, and seemed as though it belonged to an entirely different person, a different world, altogether.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke Dent had given up all thought of seeing Kathleen or Elizabeth or whatever she called herself now and strolled to his horse wishing he had not had that last glass of beer.\u00a0 He stopped to consider his options for a moment while his hand slowly stroked the neck of his mount, and when he raised his head there she was, strolling down C Street with an oyster coloured box under her arm and a slight smile on her lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now, he told himself, was the time to confront her and not waste another precious moment.\u00a0 Adjusting his hat more firmly onto his head he strode down the sidewalk, crossed the road and stepped just a few feet from her, so that it was impossible to avoid him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The colour flashed up and covered her face and then faded leaving her deathly pale, and her breathing quickened so much that he thought she was going to faint and put out a hand to steady her. \u00a0\u201cWhat – \u00a0do you want?\u201d she whispered so faintly he had to lean towards her to hear what she said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI want to know why you are here? \u00a0 Don\u2019t you think we have a right to know?\u201d he said in as calm a voice as he could manage for it shook a little, and when she looked up at him and he could see the fear in her eyes he actually felt ashamed for being the cause.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She glanced around her, bowed her head \u201cCan we go to a place a little more private than this, people are watching\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke glanced over his shoulder and sure enough a few old biddies were looking over at them although he couldn\u2019t think as to why.\u00a0 He nodded and with his hat still in his hands gestured towards where the park could be seen. \u00a0 They walked along in silence and then finally paused at a bench where she sat down and took a deep breath<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLuke, I can\u2019t – I don\u2019t – find this easy to explain.\u00a0 I don\u2019t even understand it myself but – but it was as though some compulsion drew me here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA compulsion?\u00a0 Like the one you had last year when you took Sofia from her family?\u201d his voice was harsh, and the colour was high in his cheeks.\u00a0 He looked every bit as furious as he felt, and he had to keep a firm grip on the brim of his hat to maintain some control.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI told you when we last met how sorry I was\u2026I explained exactly to you how it all happened.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t steal Sofia from her family. \u00a0 Don\u2019t \u00a0you men realise that I actually saved her life?\u00a0 She would have frozen to death had we left her there, in the snow.\u00a0 As it was she was ill, and we saw to it she had a doctor to care for her. \u00a0 I did not steal her, Luke.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was now his turn to bow his head and calm down, he took deep breaths in order to do so.\u00a0 Now that he had children of his own he could not bear to even think of how he would feel were they to be taken from him. \u00a0 How it would have affected Marcy was something out of a nightmare.\u00a0 He raised his head and stared at her, before asking her again why she had decided to come, to change her name and to take the position of librarian, an indication that there was a degree of permanency in her future plans.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLuke, you of all people know what life is like with my mother \u2026you surely can\u2019t have forgotten what she was like?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have not forgotten.\u00a0 How could I?\u00a0 To be honest I was rather pleased to hear that she had died and gone to the best place for her.\u201d he glowered, his cheeks burned red with mixed emotions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy sister Emily is made in my mother\u2019s mould.\u00a0 There\u2019s little pity in her, no sympathy\u2026\u201d she paused, pulled out a handkerchief and dabbed her eyes. \u00a0\u201cLook, I know what it must seem like to \u00a0you, to Adam Cartwright, but it isn\u2019t what you think. \u00a0 I came here to – to – how do the Catholics put it – \u2018expiate my sins\u2019 \u2018mea culpa\u2019 – \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd coming here. .how exactly does that fit into all of that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause -\u201d she wrung her hands together, then dabbed at her eyes a little more \u201cremember I told you, I had a baby?\u00a0 A child of my own? A little girl?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo on.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMother forced me to abandon her.\u00a0 Not entirely, but to hand her over to my sister so that she and James could raise her as their own daughter.\u00a0 It was thought that they could not have children of their own, and I – by my actions – had no right to one. \u00a0 Well, Emily now has a son as well as my daughter\u2026\u201d she paused and bowed her head, stared for a while at her restless nervous fingers toying with the square of cambric in her hands, \u201cAfter mother died I had to leave Bodie, and glad to do so\u2026but there was no place to go except to my sisters, so I went there\u2026 and every day was a humiliation and a misery.\u00a0 My daughter had no time for me, no fondness, no feeling. \u00a0 I was her Aunt, so Emily constantly reminded me, but -\u201d she heaved in a deep breath \u201cbut not an Aunt that the child was allowed to show any fondness for.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They were silent for a moment, neither knowing what to say to the other.\u00a0 Luke felt a little out of his depth now, his anger cooling into sympathy for her, and her embarrassment warming up her narrative, she glanced up \u201cWhen I could bear it no longer, I decided to leave. \u00a0 But I didn\u2019t know where to go.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat still leaves open the question \u2026why here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe time with my sister, and my daughter, made me think of Sofia, and of her mother, and of what they must have been feeling .\u00a0 I felt so miserable, so sorry and so ashamed.\u201d she dabbed at her eyes again, \u201cI think – what I mean is – \u00a0I thought that if I came here I could go and see her, Mrs Cartwright I mean, your sister, and explain to her exactly what happened.\u00a0 I wanted her to understand, as a woman, what compelled me to keep Sofia close and not return her right away\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Again silence fell between them as both thought of the ramifications involved in what she had considered. \u00a0 She took a deep breath and continued on \u201cI wanted her to see that it was really an errand of mercy that saved Sofia\u2019s life, after all, how could I have returned her when the weather was so dangerous for travel?\u00a0 We only just got to Bodie ahead of the worst storms, and – and my mother was insistent that we returned there, and did not turn back into Virgnia City to locate the child\u2019s parents.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd would you have done so, had it not been for your mother insisting on returning to Bodie?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, of course I would have done. \u00a0 Please believe me, Luke.\u00a0 I would have taken her home – or at least have taken her to the doctor for treatment.\u00a0 She was suffering, Luke.\u00a0 We – I – saved her life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He rubbed his chin, thoughtful, unsure and regarded her with a worried countenance. Then he shook his head \u201cNo, you may have thought you would have done that, but you did keep her, and \u00a0you changed her name, insisted she was someone else other than Sofia Cartwright.\u00a0 You played games with her emotional state, you made her – tried to make her – forget who she really was without any heed as to how her parents were suffering.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded and looked into his face \u201cI know. \u00a0 That was the crime of which I am guilty, Luke. That is the sin I must confess to Mrs Cartwright, and apologise for \u2026 I missed my baby so much, and my Mother kept saying how much like my Alice the child was\u2026.and my heart went out to her, Luke.\u201d \u00a0she wrung her hands and tears sprung to her eyes yet again \u201cLuke, believe me, my body ached to have her as my own, I missed my own baby so very very much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you think of going to see Olivia right away, or what?\u00a0 Why the change of name? Why get this librarian job?\u00a0 You could have gone to see her, make your excuses and then have gone elsewhere\u2026.why make these plans to stay?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shook her head, she couldn\u2019t find the words, not words that he would have understood anyway. \u00a0 She didn\u2019t even understand herself but it had made sense at first, it really had. \u00a0 He looked down at her and took hold of her by the wrist bringing it up to his chest level so that she was forced to look up at him and half rise from the bench<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy advice to you is to get the next stage out of here.\u00a0 Leave Olivia and Sofia alone\u2026\u201d he lowered his head so that they were nearly nose to nose \u201cDon\u2019t see them, don\u2019t go near the Ponderosa, do you hear me?\u00a0 You just leave here and go.\u00a0 Let them forget about Bodie.\u00a0 About Katherine and Rosemarie Royale.\u00a0 Let them get on with their lives.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I need to \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you don\u2019t need anything. \u00a0 Sofia is suffering nightmares enough as it is just from someone wanting to read her a story from a book\u2026 I dread to think what effect seeing you again would have on her.\u00a0 Or Olivia. \u00a0 Just leave them be, Katherine.\u00a0 Get on the stage and go away.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He released her then, and she fell back rubbing her wrist and watched him as he walked away from her. \u00a0 She sat for a few moments more, her head bowed, then she dabbed at her eyes and stood up. \u00a0 Running away was not an option, she would have to see Olivia and Adam, and explain.\u00a0 Then whatever they decided – she would do.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Godfrey?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The voice came from behind her, catching her by surprise for she stumbled her next step and put out a hand to steady herself, her fingers brushing against the trunk of a \u00a0tree.\u00a0 The voice, her name, was repeated and much closer now so that she turned to see who it was who was addressing her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sunlight gleamed upon a handsome face one that she did not recognise.\u00a0 But the face bore a slight smile and kindly eyes, so that she forced herself to stand still and straighten her back.\u00a0 This was not the enemy, she told herself, but a potential friend, or perhaps not that just yet, but at least some kind hearted stranger.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou have the advantage of me, sir?\u201c she said as calmly as she could and hoping that he would not notice her bloodshot eyes as she hurriedly pushed back the spectacles on her nose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAbel Greigson, Miss Godfrey.\u201d he smiled, but his eyes looked at her anxiously now and he had a handkerchief in his hand which he had stretched out towards her \u201cI thought you might be in need of this\u2026it is clean.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled then, odd how men always assure women that their handkerchiefs are clean, and she wondered why, just fleetingly, just a thought nibbling at the \u00a0back of her mind.\u00a0 She sighed \u201cWas it that obvious?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat \u00a0you were distressed?\u00a0 Only to those close by \u2026myself and a few birds.\u201d his smile did reach his eyes then, and she thought how pleasant he was, what a kind face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t think badly of the gentleman to whom I was speaking,\u201d she said softly and turned her steps towards town, he came to her side and matched his stride to hers, \u201cHe was a friend of my fiance\u2019s, in the army .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re engaged?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no, my fiance was killed on manoeuvres in Indian Territory.\u00a0 Some \u00a0years ago now..\u201d she dabbed at her eyes again, aware that tears were still forcing their way down her cheeks, \u201cI\u2019m sorry\u2026\u201d she mumbled, feeling now ashamed and wishing she could go somewhere private to blow her nose, as it was she gave a polite dab at her nostrils and bowed her head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,, I\u2019m sorry, I\u2019m intruding\u2026I\u2019ll leave \u00a0you to get on\u2026only\u2026\u201d he paused again and slowed his steps to match hers once again, \u201cI do understand how you must feel, a stranger here and with losses\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked at him again then, and wondered what losses \u00a0he could have experienced.\u00a0 A wife, sweetheart, perhaps?\u00a0 He was old enough to have once been married and suffered such heart ache.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Mr Greigson, I truly do appreciate all you have said,\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He bowed his head, but said nothing so that for a while they walked along in silence but at the entrance to the park he turned to her with a more genuine smile this time, his eyes twinkling<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s a dance at the Town Hall tomorrow night\u2026would you like \u2026.I mean, if you would like to go, I would be very happy to be your escort for the evening.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA dance?\u201d she blinked, and a slight frown created three tiny lines between her eyebrows, \u201cI saw the posters but didn\u2019t think to consider going.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u00a0 A pretty lady like you should go, and have a little music and dancing \u2026\u201d he grimaced \u201cI\u2019m not a very good dancer I have to say\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She laughed now, wiped away the last tears and nodded \u201cOh Mr Greigson, I would love to come to the dance.\u00a0 I shall dance for the two of us\u2026if you really don\u2019t mind taking me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel shook her hand gently as she had placed it between his own, \u201cI shall be honoured.\u201d was all he could say and then he turned to go, paused and looked at her again \u201cI shall come for you about 7 o\u2019clock.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded \u00a0and without looking back turned into C Street and walked briskly back to her lodgings.\u00a0 It didn\u2019t matter about the past, she was gong to make a new life for herself to go along with her new name\u2026she tilted her head higher, facing the sun, letting it warm her face with a firmer hope that all would indeed be well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 27<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By the time Adam Cartwright arrived home Luke and Marcy had gone, leaving Olivia to weave nightmares out of what Luke had told her, and seeing her Nemesis leaping from corners and shadows that she never even knew existed before. \u00a0 Cheng Ho Lee had kept a watchful eye on her, not having seen her so nervous or skittish since the time Sofia had been taken from home, and anxious for her now as she paced restlessly back and forth, or sat so still with her hands clasped in her lap and her eyes fixed to a space far off. \u00a0 Even little Nathaniel felt her distress, and clambered aboard her lap, nestled into her body and leaned his head upon her shoulder as though by doing so he could take some of the burden from her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But just sometimes things became too much, logic and emotion clashed and bumped into each other, words and suggestions and thoughts were tangled together until she didn\u2019t know where she was and she knew she needed clearer thinking, better reasoning and more reassurance that all would be well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When she heard the door open and her husband\u2019s foot steps her heart leapt so high in her throat that her head swam.\u00a0 Nathaniel clambered down from her lap and ran to the doorway, called to his Daddy, and throwing his arms around Adam\u2019s legs while his father untied the holster string, and unbuckled his gun belt to set it aside before catching his son under the arms and tossing him up into the air.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia was standing by the hearth watching them, the sight of them together pushing aside the anxiety for the briefest of moments and then she was moving towards him, and his arms were around her and holding her tightly, while Nathaniel slid away, preferring not to be squashed between the two of them as had happened countless times before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Adam, have you seen Luke?\u201d she whispered, not daring to let go of him, liking the feel of his hard body against her and thinking how well they fitted together, even now, like this, his and her body linked and fashioned as though made for each other.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI saw him in town\u2026not to speak to\u2026but \u2026\u201d he bowed his head and narrowed his eyes, dropped a kiss on the nape of her neck and then gently pushed her away from him in order to look more closely at her \u201cWhy?\u00a0 What\u2019s happened? Is Marcy alright? The children..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She put a hand to his mouth and shook her head, \u201cNo, I mean, they\u2018re alright, but – but he saw someone in town\u2026.\u201d \u00a0she searched his face, looked into his eyes \u201cYou – you didn\u2019t see – anyone – new to town, did \u00a0you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He shook his head and took her hand in his own, then gently led her to the settee where they sat down together, and now he took hold of both her hands in his and held them, resting them upon his thigh, while his eyes looked into her face. \u00a0 Nathaniel came and chattered, leaning against Adam\u2019s legs and telling him about the babies, and how they had played.\u00a0 He smiled and chuckled, and Adam smiled back, but even a little tot like Nathaniel knew when his attentions were not really wanted and without feeling any irritation at his parent\u2019s lack of interest he wandered off to find Cheng Ho Lee who was always willing to listen to his chatter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, what did Luke have to tell you\u2026who did he see?\u00a0 And no, I saw no one new in town\u2026but \u2026\u201d he touched her face again \u201cWho was it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded \u201cKatherine Royale.\u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A sharp intake of breath confirmed to her that Adam had not known Katherine was in town, nor anywhere near the Ponderosa.\u00a0 He even glanced over his shoulder as though he expected to see her there, before he turned to her again ..after a second as though both of them needed the time to catch their breath he asked her to tell him everything, and so, in a halting narrative, she did..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe saw her, and spoke to her\u2026.she told him that she \u2026she only wanted to come and see us, to apologise\u2026she told him about her own child, \u00a0taken from her\u2026and ..but\u2026\u201d she paused and shook her head now, a tendril of soft milk blonde hair curled over her shoulder and very gently he took it between his fingers and waited for her to continue speaking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She told him all that Luke had told her, explained to him her fears, her feelings, her tangled messed up feelings. \u00a0\u201cI should feel pity for her, shouldn\u2019t I?\u00a0 Why can\u2019t I feel pity for her, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you feel for her, sweet heart?\u201d he replied, very quietly, as though she were Sofia needing explanations as to the why\u2018s and wherefore\u2018s of some problem with which she was struggling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI \u00a0– I\u2018m angry.\u00a0 I feel threatened by her being here. I\u2018m afraid that she\u2019ll arrive here one day, wanting a confrontation or she\u2019ll come and take Sofia away again\u2026\u201d she lowered her eyes and bit her lip \u201cAnd I feel angry with myself for letting her make me feel like this, making me want to hit her or – or worse – \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam frowned, just slightly, not enough to alarm her, but he allowed her words to sink in and he thought them over while he gently rubbed his thumb against her wedding ring and turned it round and round while he wondered what he could say to help wipe away fears and uncertainties that held her when he himself was trying to understand himself, something that he couldn\u2019t comprehend.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid Luke say how long she had been in town?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSome weeks\u2026\u201d Olivia stammered. \u00a0\u201cShe\u2019s here.\u201d she said, looking him in the eyes with a wild look in her own, \u201cShe\u2019s right here in town, \u00a0she\u2019s changed her name, she has a position in town and a place to stay.\u00a0 She\u2019s going to be permanently here, Adam.\u00a0 How will Sofia react when she sees\u2019 her, what if\u2026\u201d she paused then, and shivered \u201cwhat if she \u2026if she \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if she – what?\u201d \u00a0Adam asked kindly and stroked his wife\u2019s face with his forefinger,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if she takes Sofia from us again?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked into his wife\u2019s anguished face, the wide eyes, and shook his head \u201cI don\u2019t understand it, why should she come here?\u00a0 Why hide away behind a false name\u2026for weeks\u201d he glanced sharply at her again, \u201cDid she tell Luke\u2026did she explain why \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust that she came because she wanted to have our forgiveness.\u201c she turned away, frowning, staring at the colours in the rug at their feet, thinking over all that Luke had said about his confrontation with Katherine..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe has made no effort to see Sofia\u2026\u201d \u00a0he murmured, half to himself, a thought that trickled into words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow do we know?\u00a0 She may be haunting the school house\u2026watching for Sofia to come out of school..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd do what?\u00a0 Snatch her away?\u201d \u00a0Adam shook his head, \u201cBut why wait so long?\u00a0 Why, if that were her intention, has she hidden herself away behind a false name, got a position\u2026 and done nothing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia sighed, a deep miserable sigh that caught at her throat, \u00a0she leaned into him, her head upon his shoulder once more, finding the hollow by his collar bone which fitted her head so well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy is she here, Adam?\u201d \u00a0it was a moan, a sigh, strangled in fear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFrom what Luke says, to make amends.\u00a0 To make a new life for herself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut why here?\u00a0 Why not Sacremento or Reno?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou would have to ask her that, my dear, I don\u2019t know.\u201d \u00a0he stroked her head, found the lock of hair \u00a0that had come loose and curled it around his finger \u201cI was thinking of all the kind things she did for Sofa while she had her in Bodie\u2026the clothes, the toys\u2026the love and \u2026\u201d \u00a0he paused \u201ceverything so contradictory, kindness and love and yet the subtle cruelty of trying to rub out Sofia\u2019s real existence, her identity\u2026\u201d he leaned away from her, and rubbed his jaw, his brow creased in thought \u201cAnd if she were really here for forgiveness why take so long to receive it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want her to love our girl\u2026\u201d Olivia said hotly, and she pushed herself away from him, and looked at him \u201cIt\u2018s her love that is the most dangerous about her, don\u2018t you see?!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He narrowed his eyes slightly and nodded \u201cI know, I understand.\u201d \u00a0he bit down on his lip, still sore from the altercation in town some days previously. \u00a0\u201cI don\u2019t understand why she\u2019s here\u2026she could be anywhere else in the world but here\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia said nothing but clasped her hands together again in her lap. \u00a0 She hadn\u2018t wanted to say that love could be dangerous, it could be like quicksand, sucking a person in, pulling them away from all that they loved\u2026she closed her eyes and put a hand to her head, it ached and she felt as though it would explode beneath her fingertips at any moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wish -\u201d she said quietly, hesitantly, \u201cI wish she hadn\u2018t come.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam said nothing to that, Nathaniel had run back into the room with a cookie in one hand and a smile dimpling his cheeks\u2026but in all sincerity Adam whole heartedly agreed with her as he leaned over to pick the child up and swing him onto his lap.. .<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After a moment or so of bouncing his son on his knee he swung the boy in the air and then deftly dropped him into Olivia\u2019s lap while he got to his feet, \u201cI\u2019m going back into town, \u00a0sweetheart, I think the sooner I see this woman the better we both will feel about her being here.\u00a0 Perhaps we\u2019ll even get to understand why she\u2019s really here. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia sighed, \u00a0and with Nathaniel in her arms, despite his being a big boy now, she walked with her husband to the door, \u00a0and waited for him to replace his gun belt, \u201cIf she had come here to apologise, to \u2018expiate her sins\u2019, as Luke said, surely she would have done so as soon as she arrived?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUh-huh, I would have thought so, \u201cAdam replied as he retied the thong \u00a0of the holster around his thigh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI mean – she would have \u00a0been here, \u00a0talked to us – instead of changing her name and getting a position in town, wouldn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam picked up his hat, paused to look at Olivia and sighed, for it seemed that the sun had gone out of her eyes, and the ready smile turned into a sad little moue of misery.\u00a0 He reached out a hand to caress her cheek and then turned away, \u00a0quickly, \u00a0so that she wouldn\u2019t see the \u00a0anxiety on his face and be even further dismayed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel wriggled to get down and run after his daddy, but Olivia kept a firm hold, almost as though subconsciously frightened of losing him should she let go.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth Godfrey emptied the oyster box with the scarlet ribbon and spread out the pretty lace trimmed under garments onto the bed in her room. \u00a0 She loved the feel of the silk, it was so light to her finger tips, and the colour, a very shell like pink, was one of her favourites.\u00a0 She remembered as she refolded the items back into the box the look of curiosity she had received from one of the assistants who seemed to be in some doubt as to whether or not the wages of a librarian would cover the cost of such furbelows, \u00a0but Miss Ridley didn\u2019t seem too bothered once the money was put in her assistant\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But it was a good warning to her to be more careful in future. \u00a0 People expected her to live within her means, and that was not as the rich daughter of a very wealthy couple from Bodie. \u00a0 She placed the box in the wardrobe and closed the door before leaving the room and going down \u00a0to the communal room where Mrs Albierno encouraged her lodgers to be \u2018comfortable\u2019 and socialise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was no on else there, as Elizabeth had expected there would not be, as there were few staying and those that were had their work to attend. \u00a0 She sat down and picked up a book and began to read, an interesting story about four sisters who lived in an English village with their cousin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mr Albierno provided her with some coffee during the course of the afternoon, and having finished her book she reclined back in the chair and looked at the view of Sun Mountain from the window.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was thinking of the \u00a0young man who had approached her earlier in the park,<\/p>\n

Abel Greigson, \u00a0and tried to conjure up the memory of his face which she remembered was handsome, deeply tanned.\u00a0 He looked strong and dependable and she wondered whether or not he had overheard any of the conversation she had had with Luke. \u00a0 \u00a0She was thinking over this strange encounter when she heard someone mention her name\u2026her real name\u2026from the doorway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam hadn\u2019t spoken it loudly but it seemed to boom around the empty room and when she turned to face him, the look on his face made her knees go weak.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stood with his hat in one hand and the other hand resting on his gun belt, at his waist.\u00a0 If anyone had asked her to describe what an avenging angel would look like, then she would have said Adam Cartwright at that very moment in time. \u00a0 She stood up and turned to face him, \u00a0and as she did so, he closed the door behind him and stepped closer to her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid Luke tell you I was here?\u00a0 Did he send \u00a0you?\u201d \u00a0she asked in a voice that shook slightly for Adam Cartwright was not like Luke Dent whom she had known years earlier, who could be gently persuaded due to their past association, to believe what she told him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you have a good reason for being here? \u201c Adam asked in a cold level voice that was clipped and abrupt. \u00a0\u201cIf you have, you had best say what it is right now before I get the sheriff and have you arrested for kidnapping my daughter.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A flush of anger blushed her cheeks and she felt the heat of it in her stomach, she firmed her lips and shook her head \u201cDon\u2019t any of you ever listen?\u00a0 I did not kidnap your daughter. I saved her life.\u00a0 If I had not found her\u2026I mean \u2026.if we hadn\u2019t found her, she would have died.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam inclined his head, narrowed his eyes, \u00a0and indicated by a nod that he wanted to hear more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was with my mother, and a friend, the man who was driving the coach. \u00a0 They both felt, with the weather conditions as they were, that we should continue on to Bodie.\u00a0 I had no idea how close or how far Virginia City was from where we found her.\u00a0 I only knew that she needed our help, \u00a0and the best help we could give her was in Bodie.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She wrung her hands, looked at him with pleading in her eyes but still he just stood there, his own dark eyes narrowed, looking into her face, demanding more words, more explanations\u2026she drew in her breath\u2026\u201dWhat would you have done in the circumstances, Mr Cartwright?\u00a0 Tell me?\u00a0 What would you have done?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know. \u00a0 I wasn\u2019t in that situation.\u201d he replied with a tilt of the chin, \u201cYou were.\u00a0 The thought must have crossed your mind, or \u00a0your mothers, that the child had parents?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cParents that were negligent as to their responsibility.\u00a0 Parents who allowed their little girl to wander about in the wilderness by a raging river with a blizzard about to rage down again\u2026don\u2019t you see how it would have appeared to us? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He could see her anger, \u00a0beneath her attempt to put the case calmly, anger was raging beneath the surface.\u00a0 Having to justify her actions, again\u2026having to explain, to beg \u2026she shook her head \u201cShe was an adorable little girl who could have died had we left her there. \u00a0 What were we supposed to do, tell me, what would you have done?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cConsidered her parents for one thing. \u00a0 Reasoned on the fact that no one would abandon their child like that, \u00a0unless there was some reason\u2026a very good reason\u2026.in which case surely they should have been considered?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTime was ticking by\u2026.my mother insisted we got on to Bodie. \u00a0 She said we would find the parents later.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe never meant that though, did she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI meant it\u2026\u201d \u00a0 her voice faltered \u201cAt the time, I meant it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe so, but you didn\u2019t follow up on it did you?\u00a0 You left that child’s mother frantically worried, frightened for her daughter. .. And there was another child, our son, who saw you.\u00a0 You drove away with his sister and left him \u2026 \u00a0you left him to think he had been abandoned, \u00a0and that he was to blame for \u00a0his sister being taken.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI never saw the boy. \u00a0 Had I done so we would have taken him too. \u00a0 \u00a0He would have been safe with us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we might never have seen either of them again\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His voice drifted into the room, and she stared at him, eyes wide, feeling suddenly afraid, very afraid, \u00a0that with this man there was no reasoning with, no talking out the situation, no hope of \u00a0peaceful negotiation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 28<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There were sounds from outside the room, the handle on the door rattled as though someone was going to come inside, but thought better of it for the door did not open and whoever had been there walked away. They could hear the footsteps fade as though an echo of their own heart beats.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stepped forwards now, her hands clasped together and a look of concentration on her face, then she stopped and looked up at him her eyes meeting his, not in challenge but as honestly as she could,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI went to Jethro Tombs trial. I had read about the murders and thought it would be interesting to see Sofia\u2019s family \u2026 and the whole drama of it both appalled and appealed to me. I was intrigued by the developments of the case, and I thought that Mrs Cartwright was wonderful in her loyalty to her husband. Such a pretty modest young woman.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d Adam frowned, gripped his hat brim more tightly between his fingers, \u201cI don\u2019t exactly understand what this has to do with anything regarding our current problem\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut it has everything to do with it\u2026I mean, with my decision to come here, to have a new start in Virginia City. I saw the young man, Grant Tombs, having to come to accept his father was a murderer, that his mother was one of the victims, and I so admired his courage\u2026his ability to walk away from it\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho says he has, he has to live with the memories all his life long\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and so do I, Mr Cartwright, so do I.\u201d she drew herself upright, \u201cHad I had that young man\u2019s courage I would have kept my child, and left my family when I could, but I didn\u2019t. But when I saw \u2026 realised\u2026what Grant Tombs was going to do, then I thought. \u2019I could do that\u2019 I could start a whole new life \u2026 some poet once wrote \u201cWhat matters it that went before or after, now with myself I will begin and end.\u201d\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She glanced up at him and then sighed \u201cI thought he had courage, and that, somehow, I should find that courage too\u2026a new beginning\u2026is that so bad of me to wish that? To wipe away all that was past, was so miserable \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMadam, you talk about yourself as though you alone have ever suffered, and give no thought to those to whom you caused a considerable deal of suffering. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI had not forgotten. And I\u2019m sorry if you don\u2019t understand my meaning\u2026 only in my defence may I say that were I of my right mind, and if my mother and her companion, whom you knew, were not of such a strong character, I would have done more than I did to return Sofia to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sunk down upon a chair and stretched out her hands as though in pleading \u201cWhy is it so difficult for you to understand what it was like for me? And for Sofia? Had she remembered her past life, her name, her family\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe did\u2026but you continued to force her to be someone else.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it wasn\u2018t just me.\u201d she shook her head, \u201cNot just me. My mother\u2026I gave in to wanting to be loved by that child\u2026and my mother used that to her advantage\u2026\u201d she still shook her head as though by doing so she could shake away all the past and send it scattering to the clouds and beyond. \u201cI am so sorry, Mr Cartwright, I truly am.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia ran to her father with a beaming smile on her face as she waved her tablet at him \u201cDaddy, look, Miss Hayward gave me a gold star for writing so good\u2026pick me up, daddy?\u201d and when he did so she hugged him tight and kissed his cheek, and told him she loved him because he was the best daddy ever in the whole world.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d Reuben was suddenly beside them with a smile on his face and his eyes twinkling, \u201cPa, guess what?\u201d he grinned when Adam tried to shake his head hampered in doing so by Sofia who insisted on kissing him so that he had to put her back down and free himself from her arms, \u201cPa, Davy said he wished he could come on the camping trip with us, his Pa never takes him anywhere, he can\u2019t even ride a horse. We are still going, aren\u2019t we, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His voice had dipped with the anticipation of disappointment as he had noticed the quick look towards Olivia that Adam had made, but then Adam smiled and looked down at him and nodded so with excitement back he continued to chatter on, and even hung onto Adam\u2019s arm as his father attempted to unbuckle his gun belt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was Sofia who removed his hat for him and told him that Jimmy Carstairs was moving out of his house and going to live with Miss Ridley. Reuben shook his head,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he isn\u2019t\u2026he isn\u2019t, Pa. She doesn\u2019t know what she\u2019s talking about\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo too\u2026.\u201d Sofia pouted and looked for support from her mother who shook her head and continued with her task of washing Nathaniel\u2019s hands which were sticky from eating sugar he had found in a bowl that Cheng Ho Lee thought he had hidden.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGuess what else, Pa? Mr Evans is going to help Mrs Carstairs and Jimmy move into the new place, it\u2019s above the store where they sell ladies things\u2026\u201d he glanced over at Olivia with an impish look in his eyes knowing already that some ladies things were \u2019unmentionable things\u2019 to him so it was with a bit of daring that he mentioned them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that\u2019s good, Mr Evans is certainly showing a \u2026\u201d Adam paused and looked over at Olivia, he smiled \u201cHe\u2019s being very generous with his time, and how did you get on with your math?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI got \u2019em all right, Pa. Miss Hayward said that I can go up to the next grade, she said I did real well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI did too, Daddy\u2026I writ my story so nice, shall I read it to you\u2026\u201d Sofia said in that begging winsome voice she used when wanting to \u2019go one better\u2019 than her brother, \u201cit\u2019s about a horse that is so beautiful and everyone wants to ride him, but he\u2019s wild and no one can except for a handsome man who can ride him, and he can because he is my Daddy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned then and was rewarded with the chuckle from Adam that she loved, whether or not all that was actually written on the page of now rather limp paper he rather doubted. Olivia sent Nathaniel running off to play with a tap on his backside and then a request to the other children to wash up before they eat. Once they had vanished from the room she turned to him, reached for his hands and clasped them in hers. \u201cDid you see her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI did.\u201d Adam nodded and glanced at the door through which the children had passed, then gave his wife a tentative smile, before running the fingers of one hand through his hair, \u201cShe\u2019s either a brilliant actress, or perfectly sincere or quite mad.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did she say? What was she like?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He led her to the settee and they sat down together, he nodded as though he had got the words in order and could now proceed, he cleared his throat \u201cShe\u2019s attractive, as we expected her to be anyway. She thought Sofia had been abandoned, left behind \u2026 as does happen at times out west \u2026the friend who drove the coach had been an army scout working for her father, and he advised that they headed to Bodie because of the weather, also because Sofia was obviously very ill.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The grip on his hands tightened and Olivia heaved in a gulp of air, then nodded for him to continue \u201cwhen they got to Bodie they had to get a doctor to attend to her, as you know, because I have told you all this anyway\u2026.but the point is that they cared for her, looked after her. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked into her face, saw the battle of emotions going on by the expressions on her face, the waning and then darkening of the eyes, he sighed and continued \u201cShe told me how they had felt for the child, and when Sofia had began to regain her senses she didn\u2019t know who she was \u2026 and because she, Katherine, was suffering the loss of a daughter who she would never have to love and hold, she transferred her love to this little girl who turned to her for comfort\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His voice faded, and still he watched her face, saw the fight of the conflicting feelings, and when she said nothing he told her that he had gone to see Hiram, to ask his advice on legal grounds but the lawyer had said they could bring no charges against the woman\u2026Sofia had not been kidnapped, nor abducted and had in fact been saved from death by the women. The fact that they had not turned back to Virginia City or made any attempt to find the parents Hiram said was down to common sense, they would themselves never have managed to return to Bodie in the storms that winter, and would have been stranded themselves.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut Sofia would have been safely home with us.\u201d Olivia persisted with a tightness in her voice which indicated how hard it was for her not to break down in tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps, if they had made it in time. \u201c Adam frowned, \u201cHiram said there was no point in pressing charges with regards to their keeping the child, as even I can testify to the fact that as soon as Katherine knew there were parents who cared for Sofia, she did all she could to help us..provided warm clothing for Sofia, food for our journey\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia released his hands and turned away, for a few moments she stared at the blank faraway wall and then nodded \u201c I see\u2026 yes, I can see what you are saying. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf they hadn\u2019t come along when they did, Livvy, then Sofia would have died. We would have been bringing home her body, you do realise that, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know. I have told myself that so many times ..\u201d she put a hand to her temple and rubbed the pale flesh with her long fingers, \u201cDid she explain why she came here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded \u201cFor the first time in her life she had no one to tell her what to do\u2026.no strong dominating force dictating where she should go,nothing like that, so she felt lost. Her sister seems like she was made of the same stuff as her mother, strong, domineering, selfish\u2026she has successfully turned Katherine\u2019s daughter, Alice, against her, the child doesn\u2019t know the truth, of course and Katherine never had time alone to tell her, Emily, her sister, made sure of that. It became unbearable so she felt that the only place where she knew \u2026or felt she knew\u2026anyone was here, in Virginia City.\u201d he paused, pursed his lips “And here is a strange thing about that…she was at the trial of Jethro Tombs and she said that Grant Tombs impressed her so much in having the courage to re-start his life, that she decided to do the same. Here. In Virginia City.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut who does she know here?\u201d Olivia frowned, \u201cWho does she know who are friends of hers \u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo one, not really. I called in to talk to Paul about the situation and he said that it was a tenuous thread, but it was like a lifeline and she was clinging on to it. Mentally, emotionally, there was a link that she felt she needed in her life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd why hide away \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause she wants to build up a good name and reputation here, one that will break down any animosity we may hold against her under her real name. Paul said that she was trying to re-invent herself so that when we did meet, we could more easily forgive her because we would have, by then, accepted her and even got to like this new person. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded and was about to speak when Sofia ran into the room, her skirts swishing around her thin legs \u201cMommy, Nathaniel spitted into my milk\u2026.he\u2019s a naughty boy and I smacked him. Now he\u2019s crying for you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia and Adam glanced at one another, he smiled and was rewarded with a kiss on the brow so that when she left to attend to the howling child he watched her with the look of attention a man in love pays to the object so desired. Sofia came and perched on his knee, one arm snaked around his neck,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, can I come camping with you and Reuben?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not this time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She leaned her head upon his shoulder, and sighed tragically, \u201cBut, Daddy, what can I do instead? And why can\u2019t I go?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I think Mommy has plans to take you somewhere \u2026 \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh?\u201d she sat upright, \u201cWhere? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s for Mommy to tell you.\u201d he smiled and stood up, letting her roll from his lap but catching her in his arms before she landed on the floor, and then swinging her up and into his arms \u201cyou\u2019re getting too big for this, young lady.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She laughed and hugged him, never thinking for a moment that the day would come when she would disdain such privileges, and not because she had grown too big, or too heavy. She allowed herself to be borne into the other room and placed on her chair, beside her mother who smiled at them both while Reuben watched thoughtfully, and Nathaniel struggled to climb out of the chair and get down to more serious things than eating at the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, where will we be going when Daddy takes Reuben camping?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia smiled over at Adam before looking at her daughter, \u201cI thought a few days with Uncle Luke and Aunty Marcy would be rather pleasant, the orchard will be in blossom, and we haven\u2019t been there to stay over for such a long time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia nodded, the smile on her face broadening, \u201cAnd I can sleep in my little bedroom where I was when I was very little.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can, after all, it\u2019s still there\u2026\u201d Olivia replied and relaxed, looked at her husband again, before turning her attention to the food on Nathaniel\u2019s plate that needed to be cut into portions for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It would be alright for now. She would be safe and so would Sofia. Perhaps Katherine Royale was sincere, and a decent person at heart, but just for now, Olivia just wanted to be as far from the Ponderosa as possible.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When evening came Sofia and Reuben were eager to get to their beds. In the morning, early, Adam and Reuben would be on their travels. They had spent the evening cleaning the guns and rifles, and their voices had provided a low background murmur in the room as Adam explained various matters to Reuben that needed to be stressed every time they went on one of these excursions for children could be forgetful, and excitement could often drive common sense from their heads. Adam oversaw his son taking a rifle to pieces and cleaning them, then putting the weapon to gether again. He asked questions about what to do if one saw a snake\u2026or a baby bear cub \u2026which was more than likely at this time of the year. Should one run, should one stay quiet and hope for the best? What did one do to make a camp fire\u2026and when leaving the camp site what did one do with the camp fire then? Many little points, that could have major repercussions if left unsaid, unknown.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In her bed Sofia held the music box carefully in her hands, and opened the lid. She smiled when Adam tip toed into the room, \u201cNot asleep yet, Miss?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was waiting for you, Daddy. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHo.hum, so I see\u2026and why was that?\u201d he perched himself on the small chair beside the bed and she handed him the music box which he set down on the night stand. The music tinkled into the room until slowly winding down to a stop.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, tell me about how you got the music box?\u201d she settled down, her head upon the pillow, her eyes fixed upon his face \u201cTell me about Grandmother Elizabeth\u2026was she like Grandmother Abigail?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, she wasn\u2019t anything like Grandmother Abigail.\u201d he said and pursed his lips, he smiled at her but there was no smile in his eyes, although there was a tenderness that made her feel safe and secure when she saw it. \u201cGrandmother Elizabeth never got to be an old lady, Sofia. She died when she was very young. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYoung like me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, older than you. Younger than your mommy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh that\u2019s sad. Was she a happy lady?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, my Pa says she was always happy, she loved reading and poetry. She was clever, he told me that she was a good business woman. That means she could do her math, not like you, pumpkin.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t like math\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Elizabeth did\u2026even though she was often on her own, because my Grandfather Stoddard used to be at sea a lot of the time. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI remember.\u201d she smiled, dimples in her cheeks, \u201cGranpa told me that he was on the ship and that was where he met your mommy. They fell in love and he gave her the music box.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that\u2019s right\u2026a present \u2026\u201d Adam nodded, and cleared his throat, \u201cAnd then later on he gave it to me, so I could play it if I got lonely.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,but you don\u2019t get lonely now, do you, Pa? You got me, and Reuben and Mommy and Nathaniel\u2026\u201d she yawned, \u201cWas she a nice mommy, like mommy is?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess she would have been, sweetheart\u2026\u201d he said and felt a slight tightening of the throat, he cleared it with a cough and then put on a mock stern face \u201cAnd you should be asleep\u2026its late.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy, did she have black hair like you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe did, and she had hazel eyes too\u2026she was very pretty. Well, now,get to sleep, or you\u2019ll not be up to wave us goodbye in the morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She yawned again, \u201cDaddy\u2026I love you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her skinny arms circled around his neck and he leaned down in order to gain his kiss from her, then tucked the arms beneath the covers, kissed her brow and watched as she slipped into sleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 29<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Farewells echoed behind them as Adam and Reuben trotted their horses out of the yard and up to the track. Once there they turned to look down at the house where Olivia, Sofia and Nathaniel stood waving goodbye at the doorway. This was the only place they could clearly see the house from the main track to the Ponderosa, as its avenue of trees from henceforth would obscure the view.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Cheng Ho Lee had slipped several packages of Reubens favourite cookies and sweet stuff into his saddle bag making Adam appreciate yet again the quiet loyal man who had almost \u2018forced\u2019 them to take him into service for them. Now as the dawn of day was just beginning to streak the skies over head they turned their horses into the wilder untamed land that, although still part of the Ponderosa, was seldom traversed by any of them and the haunt of wild animals, outlaws and rough terrain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Over the course of the trips like this one Reuben had learned quite a lot, one of which was how to ride easy, and as a result he could now ride for longer distances before his backside became numb and he felt uncomfortable. As Adam said he would have to conquer discomfort for the time when he would be accompanying them on the cattle drives. Now they could lope along together at a comfortable pace, enjoying the clean morning air and being together. The silence of the morning was too precious to spoil with chatter, they rode in companionable silence, able to enjoy the new day, knowing they were together.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the house Olivia and Sofia got busy organising their stay away\u2026packing away clean clothing, and the necessities required when staying over , which would include Clarabelle, of course, and Nathaniel\u2019s favourite toys which changed every minute so that they were constantly having to chase him up to make sure he really wanted that rag rabbit, or that chewed red trailer or that poor one eared wooden horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now they too were ready to leave and Cheng Ho Lee helped put the luggage in the trunk of the buggy, and then lifted Sofia up into her seat and Nathaniel next to her. Then he handed then a paper bag containing \u2018goodies for the journey\u2019 which made Olivia smile and thank him with one of her very sweetest smiles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Oh to be leaving and having a little breathing space between the goings on in town. She flicked the reins and the horses ambled forwards, with a jerk which caused Nathaniel to bump his head, but he was very good and made no fuss, instead he rummaged about in the paper bag to see what goodies actually were there for him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia was excited. She loved the Double D, and the memories it held for her were every bit as precious to her as they were to Olivia. She chattered to her mother about the little bedroom under the eaves where she and Reuben had slept when they had first arrived there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you remember the big spiders, Mommy? Do you remember how you had to chase them out of the room because they were under my bed?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So many memories\u2026and there was the time they met with the Indian, Johnny Tall Bear who had saved Reuben from being bitten by a snake because they had been city children and had never heard the rattle of a snake before \u2026and there was the little tomb stone for the baby sister that Olivia had never known.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll pick some flowers for the baby, Mommy.\u201d and she sighed and looked momentarily sad, \u201cEven though she was only a very little baby, wasn\u2019t she? You didn\u2019t see her at all, did you, Mommy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And so she prattled on, until Olivia said she would tell her a story, Nathaniel had obligingly fallen asleep by then.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Shadows from the trees dappled them in shades of sunlight and grey, like the skies themselves that chased clouds. Olivia told the story that Sofia loved, of the cold winters day when they first met Adam, the Commodore, in his great coat, and uniform, and how they had been in a park covered in snow and ice\u2026the park that is\u2026not them although of course, Sofia fell over once or twice and managed to get snow everywhere.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By the time they drove over the bridge at Miller\u2019s Creek Nathaniel was awake, leaning against Olivia\u2019s shoulder, and Sofia shrieked \u201cThe Trolls\u2026.who\u2019s that clip clopping over my bridge \u2026\u201d and she peered over the side to see if the Troll who lived under the bridge (because everyone knew there was at least one living there, didn\u2019t they?) would peek out and rush over to gobble them up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel didn\u2019t like the idea of being gobbled up by anyone and started to sniffle, until Olivia started to sing his favourite song, to which he knew a few words and would shout them out with glee into his mother\u2019s ear so that she cut it short before she was deafened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In town Mr Evans arrived at Old Zeb\u2019s place to help Mrs Carstairs to move into her new apartment. There was a back stairway that led to the private door to the rooms so there was no problem disturbing business for Miss Ridley\u2019s Emporium beneath. Jimmy was more excited than he could care to mention, for the apartment was large and comfortable, bright with sunlight on such a splendid day. Mrs Carstairs didn\u2019t own much in the way of furniture so the rooms looked spaciously elegant instead of being cramped and pinched together in the dingy rooms she had been renting from Zeb.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At the library Miss Tyndale unpacked a box of new books which Elizabeth Godfrey neatly ticked off on the form she held, and as each one was handed to her she set it into a pile so that eventually the box was empty and there were five neat piles ready to be catalogued and then set out onto their relative shelves.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth had had an uneasy night with little sleep and had as a result arrived for work a little less spick and span than usual. Dreams, nightmares, of her mother and Emily had haunted her and at one time she had woken up in tears. She caught only a drift of a memory of the dream, but enough to know that it had to do with her daughter. The little girl who would never know that she was not Emily\u2019s child<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

During the early hours as she had nursed a glass of water and tried to assemble her scattered thoughts, memories of her conversation with Adam Cartwright tumbled through her head\u2026so that when she did fall asleep again she fully expected him to be the subject of new nightmares. But the last few hours of sleep had been deep and peaceful with the result that she was latet for work.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Tyndale,\u201d she said as the last book under the letter R for Romances was slipped into place, \u201cWill you be going to the dance at the Town Hall tonight?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Librarian looked at Elizabeth with her eyes going as round as an owl\u2019s behind her glasses. She straightened her shoulders, \u201cI will not.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Such a definite response made Elizabeth wary of asking her as to why not, so she merely went about her business of writing down the title of the last book she had shelved with Miss Tyndale looking rather fretfully over her shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a very neat hand, Miss Godfrey.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you. My father was a stickler for good calligraphy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd he was an army man?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA Major in the army, yes\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, an officer \u2026\u201d Miss Tyndale\u2019s eyebrows shot up over the rim of her glasses and she nodded \u201cWhat was his name? I may have known him\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth felt a shiver of trepidation trickle down her back, very much like an electric shock, and she stood as though frozen to the spot for some seconds before reallising that Miss Tyndale was still waiting for her reply \u201cOh, well, it was – Godfrey, of course.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere did he serve?\u201d Miss Tyndale now asked, following behind Elizabeth so closely she nearly trod on the hem on her assistant\u2019s skirt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIndian Territory\u2026that\u2019s where my fiance was killed. Father retired some years later.\u201d she turned and stared into Miss Tyndale\u2019s face, \u201cI had better get on as I don\u2019t want to be late leaving today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Librarian looked at her thoughtfully, tilted her head at an angle \u201cAre you intending to go to the dance this evening, Miss Godfrey?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am -\u201d Elizabeth replied with a conviction in her voice that was not usually there for she normally spoke very demurely to Miss Tyndale, \u201cI haven\u2019t been to a dance for many years now. It will be a good way to meet people \u2026here\u2026in town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale frowned and looked at her assistant as Elizabeth walked down the aisles of book shelves, she shook her head and returned to the counter just as a family strolled in and asked for assistance. It was fortunate timing for had they not come she would have said in no uncertain terms that Elizabeth should think better of going, as \u201cno good will come of it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But even if she had said anything of that kind it would have made no difference to Elizabeth. Her mind was made up, and she was eager to slip away to the party, to dance and to be young again. She also looked forward to having a man\u2019s arms around her waist, dancing together – it would be like recapturing those heady moments of some years ago when her dear fiance had held her, kissed her fingers, reminded her that she was a very attractive woman and had a right to her own life<\/p>\n

,,,,,,,,.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy Dayton was restless as she always was after a bout of malaria. She had returned to her room at the Ponderosa and was busy collating the information she had gleaned from the papers, books and parchments that she had been given by Ben and Adam. She felt the sun\u2019s rays falling across the floor to touch and gild the desk at which she was seated and put down her pen. This was such a lovely day, too good to be cooped up indoors.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She remembered that there was a dance that evening and wondered why Hester wouldn\u2019t consider going, then remembered that without her husband with her, she would not have given it a thought. Peggy wondered how many other women had no choice but deny themselves the opportunities of doing things because their man was not there, or their man would not approve. She wondered what her father would have thought of Laura, her mother, had she decided to go into town and fritter away a few hours with dancing and laughter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned to the picture of her father on the nightstand and picked it up. A handsome man, a ready smile and a twinkle in his eyes. Even in these early days of photography the camera had picked up Frank\u2019s easy going nature in the study of the picture. Peggy thought back to the days of her childhood, struggled to remember as clearly things about Frank that she could remember about Adam Cartwright. There were the days her father would be absent from home, and when he returned he would whisk her into his arms, hold her close and kiss her, tell her how he loved her, how she was so pretty\u2026and \u2026 other things too, like the smell of perfume, sweet and quite lovely. She had really loved the smell of him because of the perfume and could never understand why her mother would turn away from him when he approached her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Of course she understood a lot more now, she knew that men coming home to their wives smelling of perfume should not expect a warm welcome, but \u2026and there was always that \u2019but\u2019\u2026.to her Frank was different, quite different and there were other reasons why\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She returned the picture to its place on her nightstand and walked to the window\u2026she heard the laughter of children, and looked down to see Hannah and Hope running around the yard with a hoop and stick. Hester was hanging washing on the line. She could see Hop Sing bending over plants in the vegetable garden that he so carefully tended.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Not a day for staying indoors she told herself yet again. She made her way downstairs, and out into the yard, to the stables calling out to Hester as she passed by that she was going for a ride. She knew exactly where she wanted to go, and if the Greigson\u2019s made a fuss what did it matter, she just wanted to ride out to her favourite place on the Running D land as it had once been known, and remember the days she had been there with her father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Much happier days then \u2026so free, so uncomplicated .<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 30<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Marcy had been collecting eggs when Olivia arrived in the one horse buggy. Sofia was the first to see her Aunt and leaned forwards to shout \u201cAunty Marcy \u2026Aunty Marcy\u201d which prompted Nathaniel to lean out too and wave his hands and call out \u201cMarcy- Marcy\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere you are,\u201d Marcy cried, turning to face them, a smile wide on her generous lips and her eyes twinkling. She put down the basket with the eggs she had collected and opened her arms wide to receive the little girl, and hug her. Then Nathaniel who wanted hugs as well, his arms outstretched to receive them from this little woman with the merry face and a body as flat as a board.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But what she lacked in curves and softness Marcy more than made up for with love and laughter and those were the things the children, all children, responded to more than anything. Up Nathaniel was scooped and swung round and round so that Olivia admonished her by saying \u201cPut him down, Marcy, you\u2019ll crick your back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But she was laughing, and Sofia was happy to hear her mother laugh as she had been aware that there had been anxiety over something or other, and that there had been whispered conversations between her parents during the course of the previous evening.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was all right now though, and she relaxed and jumped up and down to ask where were the twins, where were they? Marcy set Nathaniel down and reached out her hand to touch Olivia\u2019s arm, and smile at her, before turning to the little girl, \u201cThey\u2019re asleep, thank goodness. All being well they will sleep for another hour. \u201c she smiled at Sofia \u201cI think you\u2019ve grown some more since I saw you last, Sofia.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Daddy says I grow an inch every night, but I don\u2019t think so\u2026an inch is a lot, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is, and if it were true you would be a giant by now.\u201d Marcy agreed and Sofia said very solemnly \u201cI knew he was teasing me all the time\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel didn\u2019t want to stop and talk, he was running off to the orchard to climb trees, or pull up flowers, or just crash about and feel free. He whooped and yelled and jumped as though he had existed in a strait jacket for the past year and Olivia and Marcy watched him, smiled at one another, while Sofia frowned and wondered if she could get away with a whoop and holler as well. Somehow she doubted it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhereabouts is Adam taking Reuben?\u201d Marcy asked as she leaned down to pick up the basket with the eggs and slipped the handle over her arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGoing towards Frenchmans Creek.\u201d Olivia said and smiled at Sofia who was watching a fat speckled grey and white hen who had come to explore and was pecking at Sofia\u2019s feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think I have ever been there,\u201d Marcy replied as she led the way to the house, and waited for Olivia to call out to Nathaniel that they were going in now for some drinks and some of Marcy\u2019s cake.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel was too busy scrambling around a tree to see if he could climb up it, he may have been only a little boy but he was a very ambitious one. Olivia raised her voice and hearing the stern note fluting towards him, Nathaniel sighed and ran back to where the women and Sofia were clustered by the door. The fat hen turned her attention to him now, and as he ran to wards them the hen ran towards him, wings flapping as though she recognised a naughty boy when she saw one and was warning him to stay clear of her and her chicks in the barn.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The house was warm and welcoming, and the two women entered it with a smile, both remembering the first time they had been together at the Double D. Of course Marcy knew nothing about the cobwebs and dirt, the cleaning and scouring that had been done prior to her arrival, it had already been cleaned, whitewashed and decorated so prettily by the time she had arrived from San Francisco. Olivia sighed as she removed her bonnet,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow odd, it still feels like coming home.\u201d she leaned over to untie the strings of Sofia\u2019s bonnet because the girl had fiddled with them so much they had knotted. \u201cI love my home on the Ponderosa, but I do love It here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou have lots of memories of being here, Olivia, from when you were young with your brothers and sister.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded and helped put the eggs into a bowl on the dresser. Sofia asked if she could get Clarabelle from the buggy and disappeared, while Nathaniel settled himself on the rug to fuss over the cat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, true enough\u2026but I was thinking more of when we came from San Francisco with Ben\u2026there was Abigail of course\u2026and Hop Sing stayed over to help clean up and care for her. He had such a wonderful way with her\u2026she was always calm when he was near by.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She walked over to the window where she had sat so often in the past\u2026sometimes with her mother who would put a gentle arm around her and hold her close, whisper stories, sing songs\u2026. Sometimes with her sister, Katya, pushing and shoving to get the best and most of the seat until father would come and order them to behave with more decorum, as though children of that age knew what that word meant indeed!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled and looked over her shoulder at Marcy, who was putting cups on the table and looking serious as she concentrated on the task. \u201cThank you,\u201d she said quietly, \u201cI am so glad I could come here for a few days while Adam and Reuben were away.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Marcy said nothing but raised her head to smile over at her friend, she would have liked to have said so much\u2026like \u2018if it hadn\u2019t been for you I would never have found Luke, found my home, found my place in life . Why thank me when I have so much to thank you for\u2026\u2019 but her smile was enough, it spoke the words for her leaving Olivia feeling a warm reassurance that all would now be well<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben had been very shy when he had first seen Adam naked. He had been younger of course, and more impressionable but he had never expected to see a body with so many scars on it, and for a little boy, it rather unsettled him. He had been afraid to look at Adam at first, uncomprehending as to how anyone who looked so whole when wearing clothes could be , well, so messed up when undressed. He had never needed to think much about injuries, wounds, his Pa always seemed to bounce back from whatever happened and although he had only been very young, he did know that the scars were the result of bullets, arrows,knives and \u2026(when he dared to cast his eyes at Adams leg )..fire.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was probably when he had been shot himself, that time with the Downing Boy at school. Now he too had a scar on his smooth body, marring the soft silkiness of his skin. It had made him realise that every scar he saw on Adam\u2019s body held a story to it, some older, some fresher, but they were all there as evidence of the kind of life his father lived.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He knew that Robert, his fleshly father, would have had not a single scar, well, perhaps if he had cut himself shaving. That in itself didn\u2019t make him any less a man, and Reuben knew that too, because there were a lot of people in town who would never have had so many scars as Adam, or even his Uncles. He knew they were rather battered around the edges too, and he had seen the scars on Uncle Joe\u2019s shoulder and chest where a mountain cat had savaged him once\u2026he had asked about it, but Joe had just shrugged and said he had got in the way of the bullet. That had puzzled Reuben, he thought his Uncle was teasing him, or perhaps hadn\u2019t heard him right, so he had asked Adam who had been quiet for a while and then sighed and said that Joe had been right, he had got in the way of the bullet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I was asking about the scars from the mountain cat?\u201d Reuben had protested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had found out the real story later, from Uncle Hoss, who always loved to talk about the adventures they had got up to, as though nowadays life was boring and there was nothing interesting to talk about any more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But here they were this moment in time\u2026poised at the edge of Frenchmans Creek ready to dive in and swim before they had their meal which was slowly roasting over the camp fire. The sun was warm as it kissed their skin, Adam looked at Reuben and grinned, winked, and then dived \u2026 for a moment, just for a moment, Reuben hesitated. He watched the ripples spread out, widening and widening until they hit the banks. Then he dived in too, a slim lithe figure, cutting into the water, feeling his muscles contract, his heart almost miss a beat as the cold swept over him. Adam had said the water would be cold, it was fed from the glacier snow and ice on the mountains and it was still too early in the year for the waters to have warmed up. But it was invigorating, and for a while they swam, dived, and every so often Adam caught Reuben by the waist and tossed him skywards before he splashed back into the water again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was too cold to stay in there for long and they clambered out, shook themselves like two dogs to remove the worst of the water and then pulled on their clothes. The sun was warm enough to dry them, it would have been warm enough to have dried them before they had dressed but they were shivering and Reuben was only too eager to get back to the camp fire, something hot to eat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was when they were half way to the camp that Adam raised a hand, gestured to Reuben to stop, to lower himself down, just as he himself did\u2026squatting low and peering through the grasses. Voices ebbed and flowed towards them, and Reuben shivered for another reason while he kept his eyes on his father, who remained where he was, eyes and ears alert, his hand still outstretched towards the boy as though cautioning him to remain where he was in order to be safe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Then Adam smiled and shook his head as though admonishing himself for being overly cautious. He stood up and beckoned to Reuben to do likewise so that they walked onwards to the fire where two men were standing, one was putting rashers of bacon in a skillet while the other was standing there watching him, his arm in a sling and looking anything but happy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe did smile when he saw them though, and nodded \u201cCould hear you a mile off\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grinned \u201cThought you would like something to eat when you got out of that thar creek\u2026a mite cold I\u2019d a thought.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMore than a mite\u2026\u201d Adam replied, with a chuckle, \u201cBut where did you two spring from? What happened to your arm?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBroke it.\u201d Joe said with a shrug, and a wince.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, dang fool thing he did too, chasing after our rustlers and tripped over his own feet.\u201d Hoss tossed more bacon into the skillet and frowned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo there were rustlers – Pa was right?\u201d Adam replied, setting the coffee pot down on the hot stones.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cwell, sort of.\u201d Hoss replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean, sort of? Where are they? The rustlers, I mean?\u201d Adam glanced over to where Cooch and Navejo were standing, looking for all the world as though they were catching up on the news with Kami and Max.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe rustlers were old Ma Hoag\u2019s grandsons\u2026.\u201d Joe said tetchily, and he scratched his head and scowled, \u201cI couldn\u2019t believe it\u2026there they were helping themselves to some of our steers as though they had every right to them. Said they were left wandering around like no one wanted them so they took them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey had our brand, surely?\u201d Adam asked, sliding a hand to the back of his shirt to push into his pants, while watching the bacon with more care than he was giving the conversation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe cattle all had our brand, of course they did.\u201d Joe replied and hunkered down onto his haunches as though standing up to talk was too much effort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m surprised Grandma Hoag would have allowed it, she was not above thievery herself but \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s dead. Willow told us she died about six years ago from old age.\u201d Hoss mentioned and licked his fingers where the salt taste of bacon lingered, \u201cAnyways, we talked things over and got it settled. Ain\u2019t nothing to create a fuss over now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWillow has four children.\u201d Joe said matter of factly, and grinned \u201cStill a fiesty little thing though.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo what are you two doing so far off the track? Came to join us, huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNah, only saw the smoke from the camp fire and decided to make sure we didn\u2019t have any squatters. \u201c Hoss stretched, the buttons on his shirt looked likely to pop off. They had once much to Reuben\u2019s delight and one had gone clear across the settee to land in Gran\u2019pa Ben\u2019s lap.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust want to get home as soon as possible to see Mary Ann and the children. Missed them \u2026\u201d Joe said and sighed, and Adam wondered if seeing Willow again after so long had made his little brother realise what a fine wife he had found in Mary Ann compared to the wild girl that had caused mayhem all those years ago.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He grinned, he owed the Hoag\u2019s one scar and when Reuben asked for information about the old woman and her clan, Hoss was more than glad to tell him. They ate the food, swallowed down coffee (water in Reubens case) and spun the yarn about the Hoags, and how a poetry book had saved Adams life, but shot him out of the saddle none the less.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nodded and listened, looked at Adam and smiled\u2026well, that accounted for one scar at least, he knew there was a story behind each and every one of them. Perhaps, one day, he would find out what they were\u2026 he might even write a book!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 31<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy had not remembered the distance nor the time it would take to get from the Ponderosa to the favoured place on the Running D. she tried to remind herself that it was no longer known by that name but to her it would always be her home, the place where she had started her life, always to be known as the Running D. She had found it quaintly odd that so many still referred to it as the Dayton ranch,when on that first day she had made enquiries about it. The way people had said \u2018Oh you mean the Dayton ranch.\u2019 had created a sense of all being well in her world, she was coming home. Of course, logic reminded her that was not so, even though she still didn\u2019t know what it was currently called called\u2026 she had only ever heard the Cartwrights refer to it as the Greigson’s place.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now here she was overlooking the view of the river, and she slid from the saddle and took the reins in order to lead her horse down the sloping hillside to the green of the shrubs that lined the rivers edge.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could feel the warmth of the sun through her clothes, making her feel secure and safe, helping her to slip back into the memories of the times she had spent with her father here. She could not remember if Laura had ever come to share those times, but here she had ran as a toddler, fallen and been picked up and cuddled by her father. Then an older child he had shown how to swim, taughther to skim stones and to tickle fish if she were to lay on her stomach on the big flat stone that hung over the water.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There it was, just as it always had been in the past and she released a deep sigh as though if it had been possible for her to step back in time she would gladly have done so. But the thought came with a sense of unease, after all the past had been nothing but a quagmire of misadventures and misery, and why was she now hankering after the brief stolen moments of pleasure and joy she had shared with her father when he had been more often absent from home than present there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Perhaps because these occasions had been rare, perhaps that was what made them so precious. She left the reins of the horse tied around the limb of a stunted tree and walked to the large slab of stone and stepped onto it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou are on Greigson property you know?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The voice cut through her thoughts so abruptly that she stumbled in mid=step and had she not been able to control herself could have ended up in the water. As it was she felt embarrassed and rather stupid as she turned to face Abel Greigson who was leaning on the pommel of his saddle as though amused at seeing her discomfort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know\u201d she snapped, and scowled at him, the shadow of her hat casting her face in darkness for which she was glad as it would conceal her blushes. \u201cBut I didn\u2019t think you would mind my coming, after all, I was here first.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He pulled a face, one of mockery, teasing and not unpleasant, \u201cReally, now what exactly do you mean by that, Miss Dayton?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI mean – that this is my birth place, all of this – and just because you own it now doesn\u2019t mean I can\u2019t come here -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs and when you fancy, huh?\u201d he shook his head \u201cNo, sorry, Miss Dayton, it doesn\u2019t work like that\u2026 whether you were born here or not, the land no longer belongs to you, and you are trespassing, and usually I shoot trespassers.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He straightened his back and put his hand on his rifle, and glared down his nose at her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou do not!\u201d she snapped back and strode away from the stone and up the hillside to snatch at the reins of her horse, \u201cDon\u2019t be so ridiculous.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, take it as a warning this one time, Miss Dayton. We don\u2019t take kindly to people wandering around our land, for whatever reason they may give..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI never gave you any reason for my being here.\u201d she replied defensively.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you didn\u2019t, but whatever reason it was, you could have come to the house and asked permission, at the very least I would have expected a fine lady like yourself to have taken that into consideration.\u201d he grimaced, a comical downturn of the mouth \u201cOf course, I\u2019m not too sure Pa would have allowed it even then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh I suppose he would have shot me there and then, would he? Right on his doorstep?\u201d she tilted her chin and tossed her head, and pulled her horse away from the tree to give herself room to mount up into the saddle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo telling with my Pa. He can be a mite ornery at times.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She glanced at him and frowned, then smiled, one of her bright smiles that made her eyes twinkle \u201cYou\u2019re joking, aren\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He gave the very slightest shake of the head and watched as she walked her horse up the hillside towards him, his eyes looked her up and down and he nodded then \u201cNeed a hand to mount up?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do not\u2026\u201d she retorted with a sniff of the nose and her head high.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He shrugged and sat back into the saddle to watch her, \u201cI\u2019m going to the dance tonight at the town hall.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo you said the other day\u2026I\u2019m not.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo you said the other day.\u201d he gave an exaggerated sigh, \u201cStill, doesn\u2019t matter now, I have another young lady to take instead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, how nice for you, I hope she enjoys herself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure you don\u2019t need a hand to get up into that saddle?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can mount up without any help from you, Mr Greigson.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded and shrugged again, then turned his horse\u2019s head before he paused \u201cWhat was so special about this place?\u201d he asked and turned to look at her as she stopped her attempt to mount up, to look bleakly back to the river and blinked rapidly. He wondered if he saw tears in her eyes or was mistaken, but she turned her face away from his scrutiny and said quietly that it had special memories for her, and she needed to see it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t ask her any more questions but touched the brim of his hat and with a nudge of his heels upon his horses side was soon riding away from her. She watched him go and then mounted the horse, turned its head and made her way back to the Ponderosa. It was too bad, she told herself, that he had ridden up, too bad that he had spoiled her private moments of fond memories of times past, too bad that everything he said had irritated and annoyed her.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia found the tombstone of the baby hidden beneath the drooping heads of spring flowers, and speckled by petals from the blossoms of the trees. She made a posy and placed it on the stone and then went in search of the other that would, she knew, be close by.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could hardly remember her grandmother Abigail, but a dim memory of the old lady\u2019s funeral still lingered in the cobwebs of her mind. She stopped at the tombstone and even though she couldn\u2019t read all the words engraved she did know the word Abigail because there was a girl in the same class as her who was called by that name, and the letters were familiar to her now. Another posy of flowers was placed by the modest stone and then, without another thought about either of those sleeping beneath the soil, she ran off to play.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

To be a child and without understanding of death was to be free, Olivia thought as she watched her daughter running through the trees. Without the understanding there was no fear, and if one could live without fear then life was one borne of innocence and freedom. She too had brought flowers for the graves, the little one whom she had never known and the old lady whom she had loved. She paused to think over memories and prayers at each of the locations before placing her flowers beside the posy Sofia had already placed, and then, head bowed as though her thoughts weighed her down, she returned to the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Marcy was preparing the meal so she helped in the little kitchen with Nathaniel and Sofia happily playing in the yard. The sounds of their laughter, the shouting too and fro between them slipped into the room and mingled with the sounds of Philip and Anna. The little ones were kept secure in their play pen in the yard, close to the door of the house, happily and contentedly watching their cousins at play.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had told Marcy about Adam meeting with Katherine and her friend had listened attentively and concluded that the woman was more to be pitied than blamed, even though what she had done was wrong. She gently reminded Olivia that Katherine had attempted to make redress when Adam, Luke and Hoss were going to take Sofia home from Bodie.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere is a lot to redeem her,\u201d Marcy said quietly, \u201cAlthough I still do not understand why she is here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI just don\u2019t want Sofia to meet her again, not until – well – until she can handle it. Do you think I am being too protective? Do you think I should go and see Katherine and talk things over with her, explain how things can\u2019t be how she wants them to be?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow do you know what she really wants them to be?\u201d Marcy had replied as she put the pastry over the apples, it would be a fine apple pie for later and she carefully trimmed off the surplus to make it neater, before dredging on some sugar and then putting it swiftly into the oven.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s just it, I don\u2019t know what she wants and perhaps, in all honesty, neither does she. It\u2019s all well and good saying something, but when she sees Sofia again, will her good intentions fall by the wayside? Will she let her emotions get the better of whatever it is she has planned.\u201d Olivia dusted her hands free of flour and swept up the apple peelings into a pile to be put in the bucket for the chickens.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Marcy sighed and shook her head \u201cPerhaps we should talk this over when Luke comes in.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia said nothing more. As far as she was concerned the matter was more to do with herself and Adam, and until her husband returned from his camping trip with Reuben she was feeling adrift like a little boat in a very big sea. Perhaps Luke would be able to give some sound advice, after all, he was a little more removed from the situation emotionally then she or Adam, and she knew how emotions could cloud common sense. Also Luke knew Katherine, and the Royales, he could well give her some clearer idea of what kind of person Katherine really was, and how best to deal with her now.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Katherine Royale, whom we shall refer to as Elizabeth for now, set out her dresses upon the bed. She had brought only a few of the beautiful clothes she had owned when living in Bodie, after all, a modest quiet townswoman,which she had decided she would be when arriving in Virginia Cty, would certainly not have possessed the lavish and expensive garments she had owned then.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

No, an assistant librarian would dress with a certain decorum and dignity, and she eyed her dresses with a careful scrutiny.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

One by one she held them against her as she turned this way and that in front of the mirror. At the same time she thought over Miss Tyndale\u2019s obvious disapproval of the dance, the association. Was she, Assistant Librarian as she was, being a little forward in attending? Were there rules drawn up by Society that said Librarians should not partake of parties, dances, socialising?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What kind of dress would Miss Tyndale approve of from the few that Elizabeth had to choose from? Why had Mr Greigson invited her anyway and what on earth had possessed her to accept? She didn\u2019t know him, nor did he have any idea of who she was, and surely such an impulsive action could only bode ill?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She made her choice, a soft dove grey dress with an almost Puritanical white collar and cuffs, relieved by a pretty brooch which she pinned to the left of her shoulder. If it was an impulse he regretted then he would not come for her, and if he didn\u2019t come for her then she would undress and go to bed early, with a book. It was as easy as that – or was it?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She pulled on her shoes, pretty shoes that she had always loved, and which gave her a sense of confidence, along with the knowledge that beneath her plain grey dress she was wearing the rather expensive silk undergarments and stockings she had bought from Miss Ridleys Emporium. It made her smile to think about them \u2026 and then she realised it was rather like her life now, plain dowdy Elizabeth Godfrey pretending not to be pretty and wealthy Katherine Royale.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She pinched her cheeks to get colour into them, and bit her lips to redden them, and twirled ringlets of hair around her ringers. Then she picked up her favourite hand embroidered shawl and wrapped it around her; she was ready, all she needed now was her escort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Then, even as she was thinking it, there came the knock on the door …she drew in her breath, straightened her shoulders and walked forwards to welcome her escort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 32<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joseph Cartwright always felt a surge of excitement whenever he approached his home after a few days absence. His love for Mary Ann, and his children, filled his heart to such an extent that sometimes he was surprised at just how much emotion was packed inside that small frail vessel. Even as he pushed open the door he was calling her name, \u201cMary Ann. Mary Ann. I\u2019m home\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His voice caught an echo, but he cast aside his hat and pushed open the other door into the big room where she was already hurrying towards him, a smile on her face, eyes wide and dark with joy and her arms open to receive him into her embrace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Joe, I\u2019m so glad you\u2019re home..I\u2019m so \u2026oh\u2026what happened to your arm?\u201d she didn\u2019t hug him but stepped back to view her husband anxiously, looking from the sling to his face and back again to the sling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI broke it. Nothing too serious. It\u2019ll mend.\u201d he passed it off glibly, and caught her by the wrist with his free hand and swung her into his arms, holding her against his chest and kissing her lovely face with with such ardour that she was left breathless. \u201cI\u2019ve missed you so much,\u201d he sighed \u201cYou can\u2018t imagine what it\u2019s been like listening to Hoss snoring, sleeping on rocks \u2026\u201d he didn\u2019t mention the comfortable bed in Willow\u2019s home, the good food she had provided, what was the point? After all it hadn\u2019t diminished his longing to be home, to be with his little wife.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPoor Joe.\u201d she murmured and leaned in to kiss him again only to be interrupted by Daniel whooping down the stairs with a toy train under one arm and calling out to his father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey, how\u2019s my handsome boy?\u201d Joe laughed and squatted down so that he could catch the lad with his hand and swing him into a rough hug \u201cAnd where\u2019s your sister?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHopefully asleep, as this scamp should be \u2026\u201d Mary Ann laughed and watched as her husband raised Daniel up in the crook of his arm and stood up, \u201cBe gentle Daniel, poor Daddy has a hurt arm.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel\u2019s face looked sad, and he looked at the sling and shook his head \u201cPoor Daddy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They walked together into the large airy kitchen where Joe pulled out a chair and sat down, the boy on his lap and a smile on his face, love beaming from his eyes and he caught at her hand as she passed him to make coffee and something for their supper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI love you, Mary Ann. Every time I go away I think I miss you more\u2026\u201d and he kissed her fingers and looked up into her face with what he hoped was a romantic look of yearning and love.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She leaned down and bestowed upon his upturned face a kiss before returning to the task of preparing supper. Daniel turned to Joe and asked what had happened to the \u2018poorly arm\u2019.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe laughed, and shrugged \u201cI feel a bit stupid to admit it, but I fell over my own feet chasing a three year old around the yard.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNathaniel?\u201d Mary Ann queried, pausing in filling the kettle and looking at him with a puzzled expression.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not Nathaniel.\u201d he grinned, \u201cHoss and I found the rustlers, turned out they were some old adversaries of ours from way back\u2026do you remember me ever telling you about the Hoags\u2019 and how wild they were?\u201d he frowned slightly, thinking back to that time, \u201cOne of them was meaner than a rattlesnake, shot Adam clean off his horse, and when he got his just desserts the old woman – Grandma Hoag – sort of laid siege to the Ponderosa. We had kind of taken care of one of her grandchildren, a girl, Willow. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI remember \u2026your father often refers to it as a classic eye for an eye situation. Didn\u2019t you kill the girl\u2019s father?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d Joe sighed and looked at his son, who was watching the expressions on his father\u2019s face and drinking in every word. \u201cI did. By accident not by design. Willow was wild though. Anyway, the upshot of it all was that Pa gave them some land, enough for them to settle and be happy with \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd they\u2019re your rustlers?\u201d she said sitting down beside him and reaching for his hand which she held loosely in her own, in her lap.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTurns out some of Granma Hoags grandchildren have inherited some of their ways of helping themselves first and if they got away with it, helping themselves some more. Anyway, it\u2019s all settled now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd your arm?\u201d she coaxed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWillow married and has children, well, so have some others\u2026it\u2019s quite a thriving community really. I was playing chase with the kids and fell over my own feet, crashed into a water trough, then a huge sow pig came out of nowhere and attacked me, thought I was going to harm her piglets I guess. I managed to avoid her but in doing so rolled onto my arm, and it broke.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shook her head, laughed a little and leaned forward to kiss him again \u201cOh Joe, it could only happen to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat old sow had her beady eyes on me all the time we were there\u2026if I could have taken a few rashers from her hide I would have gladly done so.\u201d and he laughed along with her, and Daniel, unsure of what exactly to say, laughed along with them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTime for you to go back to bed, young man.\u201d Mary Ann said and plucked the child from her husband\u2019s arms and said \u201cSay goodnight to daddy\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe sighed and relaxed, how good to be home. He half closed his eyes and wondered how Hoss was getting on, knew for sure that he was going to get a lot of fussing and of course, Pa would be pleased to know he was right about the rustling but wrong about who the rustlers could have been, that would make him laugh, of course.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He noticed for the first time the papers on the table, and casually shuffled them towards him having recognised his wife\u2019s handwriting. Neat calligraphy which always made him smile as his writing was always anything but neat\u2026 several phrases were underlined, some scratched out with tiny writing written in amendment above them. He frowned and read through the pages and when he heard her coming into the room he looked at her with a puzzled expression on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s this, sweetheart?\u201d he held the papers in his hand and showed them to her, \u201cWhat\u2019s it all about?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave you read it?\u201d she replied, going to the stove to make the coffee. A tiny throb of anxiety began to beat at her temples and her heart beat skipped and went a mite faster.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d his voice was sterner, no laughter now, and she poured the coffee into their cups and walked to the table to set them down, then pulled out her chair to sit down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen you know what it is about\u2026\u201d her grey eyes looked into his hazel green and noticed just how green was in them, \u201cIt\u2019s for the Meeting next Saturday.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Meeting?\u201d his voice sounded hollow, he looked puzzled \u201cWhat Meeting?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you remember ? I told you about it before you left, we – that is, Peggy and I – want to hold a Meeting at the Town Hall about the Rights for Votes for Women. You said you thought it was a good idea\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I don\u2019t think I did\u2026.\u201d he replied tersely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

You did, Joe. You said it would blow the cobwebs away and some men needed a good shaking up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure, I said that..but I didn\u2019t say it was a good idea.\u201d he frowned, perhaps he had, she wouldn\u2019t lie to him but he couldn\u2019t for the life of him remember agreeing to it, not a definite, \u2018yes, sure, go ahead.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, if I hadn\u2019t thought I had your backing about this Meeting I would not have gone ahead and arranged it. That\u2019s my speech. Peggy\u2019s going to open a question and answer debate afterwards and Lucy ..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLucy?\u201d His eyes widened and his always expressive eyebrows almost shot off his forehead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLucy Garston. She wants to be a part of the Meeting, she said she would do the concluding talk.\u201d she frowned and looked down at her hands \u201cThe least you could do is read it\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She spoke quietly, softly, hoping he wouldn\u2019t be angry but not sure whether he would or not. He leaned back and put the papers down, \u201cI read enough while you were taking Danny up\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut read it all, Joe. Tell me what you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sighed, bowed his head and frowned while he tried to gather his thoughts, \u201cMary Ann, I don\u2019t think you should do this. I just don\u2019t think Virginia City or even Nevada, is ready for this kind of talk.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not the impression you gave me when we talked about it before\u2026\u201d she said, her voice sharper than usual, and her cheeks reddening. \u201cYou gave me the impression that you were in agreement with it, that it was good, that you felt it was unfair for women to be oppressed\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you feel oppressed? Is that the impression you\u2019re going to give to the townsfolk -that you\u2019re oppressed?\u201d he stabbed his forefinger on the paper, his voice becoming higher as it always did when he was angry or irritated, \u201cWhat exactly do you think this kind of speech will achieve, Mary Ann? At the very least you\u2019ll make yourselves a joke, at the worst you\u2019ll create a revolt.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think you\u2019re over re-acting.\u201d she snapped back, getting to her feet \u201cAnd it isn\u2019t fair, Joe, you haven\u2019t even read through the whole speech yet, and you gave me – made me think – that you had given me your blessing on what I believe to be a good cause.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook, Mary Ann, I have listened to you talking about women\u2019s rights for years now, and I agree it isn\u2019t fair \u2026 but there\u2019s a lot of unfairness in this world, and a lot of things that need to be put to rights without all this -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNonsense? You were going to say nonsense, weren\u2019t you?\u201d she said, her hands balled into fists and her cheeks red, the grey eyes nearly black with anger.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was trying to think of an alternative word.\u201d he growled standing up to face her, his hazel eyes blazing green.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think you\u2019re being very small minded, Joseph Cartwright. You\u2019re as bad as those men who picked a fight with your Pa and Adam just because I put up a few posters in town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou did WHAT? My Pa and Adam \u2026What did you say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She rolled her eyes and shook her head, \u201cI\u2019m going to bed. Make your own supper.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMary Ann. Come back here. Tell me what happened to Pa and Adam?\u201d he yelled as she walked quickly from the room, but the door slammed behind her and he was left on his own with the two cups of coffee going cold on the table.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd that old sow, she never took her beady eyes off Joe all the time we was there.\u201d Hoss chuckled and enjoyed hearing their laughter, his Pa, Hester and Peggy, listening and hanging onto every word. He wiped his eyes, for the picture of that old sow and his brother rolling under the water trough to avoid her was still very vivid in his mind. \u201cSo, that\u2019s the end of the story really. Oh, met up with Adam and Reuben on the way home. They were at Frenchman\u2019s creek.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFrenchman\u2019s Creek\u2026\u201d Ben raised his eyebrows, \u201cWell, as good a place as any I suppose, but the water\u2019s mighty cold thereabouts.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, you could say that again. Reuben was not quite blue, but his teeth were chattering.\u201d he grinned and dipped his spoon into the stew, blew on it to cool it a little and smiled over at his wife who was looking at him with a besotted look on her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy smiled as she looked about her and noticed that look on Hester\u2019s face. Dear, uncomplicated unworldly Hester\u2026.so content with her lot. And Ben, chuckling away, puffing at his pipe, happy with the status quo, everything under control, not a ripple to spoil his comfortable life.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It had never occurred to Peggy to ask Hester about her life prior to marrying Hoss and becoming part of the Ponderosa regime. She knew nothing about Hester Buchanan, daughter to a wealthy Banker in New York, wife to an idealistic young journalist who had gone to chronicle the war between states and never returned. She didn\u2019t know and had no idea of the social strata that had been Hester\u2019s before marriage to Mark James, and how her world had been overturned by that marriage\u2026out of her social class, and suddenly a widow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What would she know about the struggles of a young widow, childless and suddenly friendless? Unworldly? Perhaps yes, because life in the whirlwind of New York wealth had been very worldly, and it had been Hester\u2019s by right of birth and wealth, and then..it had spat her out. What did Peggy know about true love? That this lovely woman had met Hoss, and given him her broken heart to tenderly restore to full working order. Of course they were in love, but unworldly\u2026they created their own world, but it didn\u2019t leave reality out of it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Pa, what you been a-doing of? Hannah told me you and Adam got \u2018beat up\u2019 in town?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy sighed, and frowned. Of course he had spent his first half hour tucking his girls up in bed and telling them stories. She had heard their giggles, their whispers as he sat beside their beds, she had heard the beds creaking as he had leaned upon them, and chuckled at the things they told him. Now here it was, the cat was out of the bag, so to speak.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So Ben told Hoss of the \u2018adventure\u2019 they had had in town, and Hoss had laughed, thinking it a great joke. He then looked at Peggy, his blue eyes twinkling, \u201cYou sure stirred up a hornets nest, Miss Peggy. You going to go through with this Meeting?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, of course we are\u2026.Mary Ann and Lucy\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLucy?\u201d Hoss frowned, and Hester said quickly \u201cLucy Garston has become a crusader as well.\u201d and that had elicited another guffaw of laughter from the big man who then commented that Mrs Garston must be spitting feathers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt isn\u2019t a joke, Hoss.\u201d Peggy said quietly, \u201cWe want to make a success of this, make men think that there need to be changes and women should be given more respect.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss sighed and wiped his mouth on his napkin, he glanced at Ben who was puffing out smoke rings \u201cSeems to me that women do have respect\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour women may do, but a lot of women don\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou think getting them the legal right to vote will change things?\u201d Hoss asked, his brow crinkling and the blue eyes sober and serious now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d Peggy replied, her face flushing slightly, \u201cWomen work as hard as men, sometimes harder\u2026they have brains, they deserve the right to a good education.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure I agree with all that, Miss Peggy. I would like for my girls to be able to go to college same as Erik and no fuss about it because they was women, but \u2026it\u2019s a lot more involved than that, ain\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOnly with you men\u2026seems men have to complicate everything with their arguments.\u201d Peggy scowled, her mouth tightened and for a moment both Ben and Hoss were reminded of Frank Dayton when he was on one of his drunken rants.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it ain’t that\u2026it\u2019s just that it – well – it ain\u2019t just signing a piece of paper, that\u2019s the problem. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She narrowed her eyes and looked at him \u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, guess what I\u2019m meaning is that life is as it is, men are men, and women are women. You ain’t going to change that, are ya?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked at him, looked at Hester and Ben and then shook her head, \u201cYou don\u2019t know what I mean.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With a sigh she got to her feet, said she was needing her bed and made her excuses. Three pairs of eyes watched her as she mounted the stairs\u2026Ben sat with his pipe in his big hand and his dark eyes wondering why little Peggy was always so angry, Hoss looking confused and wondering why little Peggy didn\u2019t understand what he was meaning and Hester thinking that she would be glad when Peggy packed her bags and left the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In their bedroom Mary Ann sat in front of the mirror and looked at her reflection. She knew, in the back of her mind, that Joe would not be so easy to convince about the Meeting, about her speech. It was all well and good to \u2018pat the little woman on the head and say \u2018there there\u2019 \u2018good idea\u2019\u2019 but when words became re-inforced by action then they retreated back to the old ways, the man\u2019s way of thinking, the fear, Peggy had said, of their losing control.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And now she was frightened, not the knee knocking fear of facing a mob, or seeing a spider, but the fear of losing something she treasured, the peace and harmony of her home. She was a home builder, a nester, a woman who loved home and hearth. She adored Joe, and her children. She didn\u2019t want anything ugly to come between them. Peggy and Lucy had assured her that wanting rights for women was not ugly, but it was when it caused angry words between her and Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She loosened her hair from it\u2019s ribbons and clasps and began to bush through the curls, something she did when she was agitated, like that time when there was that fuss between her and Joe over Little Moon\u2019s return to his life. Oh she didn\u2019t want that to reoccur. It had caused wounds that had now thankfully healed over\u2026but what if now they were to re-open and fester.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The door opened and Joe came in, very gently he took the brush from her fingers and tenderly brushed down through her thick curls. He leaned down to kiss the top of her head and glanced up to catch her eyes in the reflection of them both in the mirror.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou know I love you,?\u201d he said quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI love you too, you know I do, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want you to be hurt. I don\u2019t want you to be involved in anything that will harm you, us, our children\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow can it?\u201d she whispered and turned to wards him, \u201cAs long as we have our love?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam used to quote something ..about casting the wind and reaping the whirlwind\u2026I\u2019m just afraid that that is what you will be doing if you give that speech on Saturday, and I\u2019m afraid that I won\u2019t be able to keep you safe, to protect you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, it\u2019s only a speech \u2026 in Virginia City, with people we know\u2026\u201d she whispered and when he bowed his head she raised her face to kiss him, \u201cIt\u2019ll be alright\u2026what could possibly go wrong.?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMommy \u2026 I left the music box at home\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s better to have left it there, it could have got broken and it really isn\u2019t yours to take wherever you want\u2026here, get into bed, quickly now\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia frowned \u201cBut what if I have a bad dream again\u2026and there\u2019s no music.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou won\u2019t have a bad dream tonight, you\u2019re nice and cosy at Uncle Luke\u2019s and Aunt Marcy\u2019s. Why should you have a bad dream?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia smiled as she asked the question, dreading a response that she may not have an answer for, but Sofia nodded and looked thoughtful and then slipped between the covers and settled down. Hugs and kisses and the reassurance that she was sleeping in a much more comfortable bed that her brother was, which made Sofia giggle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke and Marcy were seated by the small fire when Olivia joined them. He looked at her and smiled \u201cIs she alright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, just fretting because she had left Adams musical box at home. She\u2019s grown to depend on it if she has a bad dream.\u201d Olivia smoothed out her skirt and sat down, then looked over at Luke who was gazing rather thoughtfully into the fire, \u201cWhat are you thinking, Luke?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing really\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you are\u2026what is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He frowned before looking into her face and leaning more towards her, \u201cDon\u2019t you think you could be pandering to her a little too much? All children have bad dreams, but you\u2019ve almost trained her to anticipate them so she can play her music box. Do you think its about time you told her to try and sleep through.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Marcy looked rather anxiously at Luke \u201cThat\u2019s rather hard, Luke, Sofia needs that music to help her through the night.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe thinks she does\u2026.\u201d Luke replied sternly and then he sighed and stood up, to look at the two women who were wondering what he was about to say next \u201cPerhaps it may be a good idea to talk to Sofia about what is going on, tell her about Katherine being here, explain it all so that she realises that there is nothing to be afraid of\u2026\u201d he looked pointedly at Olivia then \u201cAnd nothing for you to be afraid of, either. You can’t live your life worrying about bumping into the Assistant Librarian for the rest of your life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 33<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel Greigson gently wrapped Elizabeth\u2019s shawl around her shoulders before going to collect his hat and gun belt and rejoining her at the door. He placed a gentle hand on her elbow and ushered her forwards out into the street and then slowly made their way to the Albierno\u2019s Boarding House. Neither spoke for some time although both glanced occasionally upwards to the sky in order to be yet again awed by its splendour. Beyond as a back drop to the picture the dark shadow of Sun Mountain loomed, cutting a swathe of black through the pattern of the stars.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you for this evening, Mr Greigson.\u201d she said eventually, her footsteps slowing as they neared the Boarding House, \u201cI have so enjoyed it. To be honest, I never thought I would find so much pleasure in a dance again, it has been such a long time since I went to one.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReally? I would have thought you would have enjoyed such occasions often. Nor would I have thought you ever short of escorts.\u201d he replied gallantly, and he smiled down at her and his eyes, she could just about see in the darkness, crinkled with his smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo. The last time I went to such a party was before my fiance went on manoeuvres. We had such plans\u2026\u201d her voice trailed off. Was it five or six years ago? At the Fort to celebrate her engagement and her father had ordered all the officers and their wives to be in attendance. Luke Dent had been there too\u2026.she could remember him standing by the door as though longing to disappear as soon as he could, after all, he wasn\u2019t an officer, just an army scout. She had danced with her fiance and they had talked about their future, their marriage and neither of them had realised that a little someone was already beginning her own life nestled in softness of Katherine\u2019s womb.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So long since she had enjoyed dancing, music and laughter. That was what being free was all about, what being Elizabeth Godfrey meant to her. Abel put his hand on her elbow again and led her across the road. The sounds of others leaving the Town Hall ebbed and flowed around them; people going to their homes, full of chatter, laughter, the remnants of a pleasant evening gathered up and kept close so that they didn\u2019t lose any precious moment of it before the next day dawned and the reality of life began again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI enjoyed it.\u201d Abel said quietly, \u201cThank you for agreeing to come., for trusting me enough to let me take you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She frowned at that remark, and wondered if in fact she had been lacking in propriety in accepting his invitation when she really knew nothing about him at all. She cleared her throat,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t normally have accepted a stranger\u2019s invitation.\u201d she said quickly, \u201cIt was just that I was distressed and you seemed rather like a knight coming to my rescue.\u201d she smiled quickly, \u201cI didn\u2019t really know how to refuse as it seemed fate had thrown you in my direction.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKismet.\u201d he said and laughed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy did you ask me?\u201d she paused now, and as there was a bench seat near she sat down, wrapping her shawl closer, \u201cApart from seeing that I was distressed, I mean. After all, it does seem a strange thing to have done\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMmm,\u201d he frowned very slightly and sat down beside her, dangling his hat between his fingers, \u201cWell, to be honest I don\u2019t often attend dances or any of these social arrangements. I\u2019m a busy man, and my father doesn\u2019t approve of my being away from home..\u201d he laughed then \u201cthat makes it sound like I am still a little boy tied to his reins, but it isn\u2019t like that, he\u2019s very fixed in his ways, and since mother died has been almost fearful of being alone. He\u2019s a tough old man really, works hard, and can\u2019t seem to realise that I need to get some freedom.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you get away at all?\u201d she asked, curious about such a cloistered life for such a virile strong young man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, but I prefer my own company, always have done. I like to ride round our territory and observe the natural things of life\u2026. The heavens at night, the animals \u2026\u201d he paused \u201cI don\u2019t really need the two legged kind in my life, they tend to upset the balance if you know what I mean.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not exactly.\u201d Elizabeth frowned, \u201cDon\u2019t you – have you never had a woman in your life?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOnce, but it ended badly. My ways didn\u2019t suit her and – \u201c he shrugged, \u201cit happens I guess.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat else do you do, Mr Greigson, apart from work all day long and go for night sojourns to observe the stars?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He glanced at her quickly, unsure as to whether or not she was mocking him but her face was serious as she looked into his, he turned away and shrugged,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI like to read. Sometimes I sit under the stars with a camp fire and read \u2026that\u2019s how I came to see you, in the library. I have to keep replenishing my supply of reading material and saw you a few days ago. I thought you looked\u2026quite lovely\u2026being among books suits you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She did laugh then, but not at him, more at the picture he had conjured up of her in the library. Then she sighed \u201cI\u2019ve led a solitary life too. Since my fiance died I just seemed to shut down inside myself, so much happened that was miserable and I just trailed around with my parents.\u201d she paused and darted a glance at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Momentarily she was tempted to tell him what had happened with the Cartwrights, with little Sofia, but decided not to do so as she liked him, was even now feeling an affection for him, and was afraid that by saying something he would draw away, disgusted and appalled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother was a very strong character, you see. She dictated the terms and I just slipped into a pattern of obeying her. I see now that I was wrong, very wrong. I should have stood my ground and left home, made my own way, but after what had happened I was very ill, a brain fever, it left me without confidence ..and what I did have left my mother was slowly eroding. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut you are free from her now\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, definitely. She died \u2026 and cruel as it is to admit it, I felt – freedom – at last\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded and reached out for her hand, but she didn\u2019t allow him to take hold of her, not even the tips of her fingers. Instead they sat side by side, in silence. After a little while he turned to her and smiled again,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe are rather kindred spirits then, aren\u2019t we? Living our solitary lives \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it would seem so. \u201c she looked at him again, her eyes met his and even in the darkness she could see that they were gentle and kindly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When he reached for her hand this time,, she let him take hold and grip it tightly in his own, before he released it back into her lap, as though he had caught a little trapped bird and had set it free.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI need to get you back\u2026but I hope, Miss Godfrey, that you will let me take you out again one day. A picnic perhaps\u2026there are some wonderful views on my land that I could show you.\u201d and for some reason a picture of the flat rock and the rivers edge where he had met Peggy earlier that day flashed into his mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI would like that, thank you.\u201d she rose to her feet, and pulled her shawl tighter as though protecting herself from her feelings, and his, by doing so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen will you be free from work again?\u201d he stood by her side, a little too close perhaps but she didn\u2019t mind, it made her feel somehow, protected.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWednesday afternoon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen I\u2019ll meet you here and take you to one of my favourite places\u2026if that is all right with you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded and thought it would be wonderful. Her new life was unfolding so well, if it were not for Luke and Adam Cartwright it would have been perfect.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann found it difficult to sleep that night, she lay awake with her eyes fixed on the shadows on the ceiling and wondered what to do about the Meeting, about her feelings for equal rights for women, about her marriage. She felt as though she were drowning in self doubt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By her side Joe was restless. He found it difficult to get comfortable with his arm as it was, and every so often he would wake up with a start as though unsure as to where exactly he was, then he would sigh deeply and fall back to sleep. His snoring assuring Mary Ann that whatever had happened wasn\u2019t going to disturb him. In a way she found that really annoying.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia lay in the bed by her mother\u2019s side. She felt safe and happy, and having woken up for no reason at all she lay very quiet to think over the day. She could hear Nathaniel\u2019s little snorts and snores as he slept in the bed under the eaves in the corner of the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could remember sleeping here before, and Reuben would sleep in the bed that Nathaniel occupied now. She had been much smaller of course and she could remember only snatches of that time and probably not in the right order. She could recall her old Grandma Abigail sleeping in the room across the landing, and how she would snore, and sometimes get up during the night and walk around the house, opening doors and sometimes calling out \u201cIs anyone there?\u201d in what Sofia thought of as a shivery voice. She knew the old lady was not well, Mommy had explained that almost every day when something untoward would happen as a result of Granma\u2019s forgetfulness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia sighed and relaxed, snuggled in closer to Olivia. The twins slept in the room where Abigail had had her bed, and Uncle Luke and Aunt Marcy slept in the room where Mom had been and once, there had been a man sleeping in her bed and that man had been Adam\u2026her daddy Adam, but he hadn\u2019t been daddy then. She thought about that for a moment and remembered that he had been ill, and that she had gone into the room and even sat on the bed with him and they had talked about – she frowned, well, that didn\u2019t really matter except that she knew that she liked him and felt safe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Thinking about him now made her feel safe, and being with Mommy in the bed made her feel safer. It was a good feeling although she couldn\u2019t remember now what she had been actually fearful of\u2026she reached for Clarabelle and hugged her close. Her eyes closed and slowly she fell back to sleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia relaxed once she heard her daughter\u2019s breathing deepen as she fell into sleep. She had been awake for some time with thoughts chasing through her head about so many things that she wondered if she were going mad. She had talked things over with Luke and Marcy before going to bed, and now she wondered if that had been a bad idea as it churned all her emotions up again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned onto her side and looked at her daughters profile, just about discernible in the shadows. The tip tilted nose, the pale cheeks and the rosy lips framed by the milk white blonde hair that was a feature of the Dent family, although she already saw that Sofia\u2019s would darken over time. She was a pretty child, with all the promise of growing into a beautiful young woman.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Looking at her now, in the shadows, Olivia wondered what life would be like for her children\u2026for Reuben as well as Sofia and Nathaniel. With the town leaking people like blood from a torn artery she wondered if indeed Virginia City would exist by the time Sofia was a young woman. If it did not, how would the Ponderosa and the Double D fare?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stroked back a strand of hair behind Sofia\u2019s ear and smiled as the child murmured and sighed, hugged Clarabelle more tightly and relaxed even further into the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She closed her eyes and willed herself to sleep, and as sleep came to gently guide her into the void, she knew that she would have to go and see Katherine Royale for herself, talk to her and then face up to the situation as a result of that meeting.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben pulled the blanket over his head and closed his eyes. Woodsmoke drifted around them, it\u2019s smell permeating his clothing and the warmth of the fire making him relax and want to wriggle into a more comfortable position. On hard ground that was not really possible although Pa had made it as comfortable for him as possible, gathering up handfuls of dried leaves to form a bedding upon which to put his blanket.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It had been such a great day. It always was when they camped together. He went over in his mind some of the things they had done\u2026of course the swimming, and then meeting Uncle Joe and Hoss, that had been good.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He yawned, today Adam had shown him how to recognise directions that the Paiute and other Indians of that area had left behind so that they would never get lost. It had amazed him that there were so many and he had never noticed them or given them any importance before\u2026rocks set in a certain pattern looked as if they had been set so naturally by wind and erosion. Adam had taught him to recognise certain animals by the stools they had left, by knowing the smell or softness they could tell how long ago the animal had passed the stool, and therefore how far away it was from their camp. He was shown how to know whether such evidence was of a predatory creature or one that would be a victim to others\u2026even to themselves.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Coming upon some rabbits Adam had asked how many could Reuben kill for their supper that night\u2026and he had reached for his rifle only to have Adam place a hand upon his and shake his head. The rabbits hopped about and nibbled grass, and darted into their holes or sat there staring out around them as though pleased with life. \u201cBut Pa \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou wouldn\u2019t get a single one with a bullet, son. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou would though, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam merely smiled\u2026and then quirked his brows and nodded over to one fat bunny who was washing his face very slowly with his paws. \u201cFire a rifle now and they would scatter. So what do you think we should do to make sure we have enough for supper tonight, huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you could shoot that fat one\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had chuckled then, and rolled over onto his back and Reuben had giggled although he didn\u2019t know exactly why\u2026 so they had made snares together and as a result had caught several rabbits. \u201cWhen you can aim and shoot with certain accuracy, son, then you can use your rifle, in the meantime we\u2019ll catch \u2018em the more conventional way.\u201d he looked at Reuben and narrowed his eyes \u201cImagine you\u2019re in Indian territory \u2026how wise would it be then to use a rifle?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And so it was, questions, explanations, example\u2026and now as his eyes were closing Reuben thought he had learned so much. They had eaten well, Adam had explained some about the stars pointing to the Pole star, and tracing its way\u2026telling the story of Hercules and his twelve mighty deeds all shown up there in the heavens\u2026and they had sung silly songs together, and he had told Adam how he wanted to be a seaman like him, but that would be after he had been a bronco buster \u2026 but first of all he had to go to college, didn\u2019t he?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had said that they would discuss that another time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben yawned again, next day would be such fun.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 34<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a while Adam sat on the log close to the camp fire with a mug of coffee between his hands, his fingers \u00a0clasped around it as though to gain some warmth from its heat.\u00a0 He had his legs stretched out and his hands dangled between them, \u00a0while his eyes remained on the dark shadow that was his son sleeping beneath the blanket nearby.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After a while he stirred himself to reach for the coffee pot and pour the last of it into his cup.\u00a0 He set the pot down away from the fire, and drank the coffee in several gulps, but other than that he didn\u2019t move, but remained as though frozen to the spot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His thought travelled to the past few days with Olivia, with Katherine and once again his mind went over and over the events, the words, everything he could think of in order to find some solution. \u00a0 \u00a0 He had found his time with Hiram interesting, and frustrating.\u00a0 Again he was reminded of Mr Dicken\u2019s pithy comment about the law being an ass, but he knew that Hiram was no such thing, and that what he said was the truth. \u00a0 There had been the time lapse as well\u2026and Katherine was doing no harm.\u00a0 It was her choice to change her name, \u00a0America was a free country, people were changing their names, cultures, nationalities all the time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sighed and finally got to his feet, stretched to get kinks out of his back and walked over to check on the boy, \u00a0pulled the blanket over him, smiled at the snores and snorts.\u00a0 Then he checked the fire, before finally settling down to sleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He remembered how Olivia had held him close when they were going to part that morning. \u00a0 \u00a0Her body pressed into his, her arms around him and her head against his shoulder, and then her lips upon his, \u00a0gentle, trusting and so wanting to keep hold of him and not let him go.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sighed, \u00a0fear was a strange emotion\u2026the mind could create it and emotion would feed it until logic disappeared entirely.\u00a0 Logic and Love.\u00a0 The most effective weapons against fear, and he felt that Olivia needed both but was looking to him to supply them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The fire spat sparks, and for a moment he watched as the wood glowed red embers, hungry flames\u2026 he closed his eyes and within minutes was sleeping.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben was still sleeping when Adam woke up, and the sky was purpling into a new day. \u00a0 By the time the fire was blazing and coffee and food were cooking, the sky was streaked with oranges and reds and pinks across a blue sky with not a cloud in sight.\u00a0 He shook the boys shoulder and roused him awake, \u00a0and then handed him a plate of food \u00a0\u201cYou alright, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI had funny dreams, Pa. \u00a0 I was on a ship – thank you -\u201d he took the cup and sipped it, set it down and balanced his plate on his knees \u201c and the ship was sinking but not in water, it was in sand all the time. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you manage to get off the ship before drowning.\u201d Adam asked and forked bacon into his mouth and chewed, \u00a0while he walked from the boy towards the fire and picked up the coffee pot to pour coffee into his mug.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw, Pa, you can\u2019t drown in sand.\u201d \u00a0and Reuben gave a little giggle as though the idea or the fact that his Pa didn\u2019t know, was amusing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, son, actually you can\u2026.\u201d \u00a0and Adam gulped down his coffee and \u00a0told Reuben about quick sand, \u00a0and how even on the Ponderosa there were areas one had to avoid, as some parts had swallowed up horses, men and even a wagon that he knew of, \u00a0at which tale the boy\u2019s eyes were like saucers.\u00a0 He didn’t continue to mention that sadly, yes, even in ‘normal’ sand, one could drown.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWow, \u00a0Pa, wait till I tell Jimmy about that, \u00a0I bet even Davy never heard about that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEat up, now. \u00a0 We need to get on.\u201d Adam said with a smile and nod of the head, \u00a0as he scraped his plate clean and washed the food down with the last of the coffee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They checked their snares and found several rabbits, \u00a0which Adam tied and hung from the pommel of his saddle for \u00a0their camp meal later on. \u00a0 \u00a0The sun was warm, warmer than the previous day, \u00a0and it was good to feel the lightest of breezes brushing against their faces as they walked their horses through the \u00a0shrubs and trees they were travelling through. \u00a0 \u00a0 Adam was pointing out various plants to Reuben, explaining their healing properties, \u00a0telling the boy the effectiveness of moss for plugging up wounds, \u00a0and willow bark for fever.\u00a0 The horses loped along, \u00a0it was no hardship for them, they could enjoy the day as much as their \u00a0masters without having to expend too \u00a0much energy in doing so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They eventually stopped to make camp as the sun had reached its highest point.\u00a0 Adam dismounted and stretched, \u00a0and Reuben ran to the cover of the shrubs to \u00a0empty his bladder before hurrying to pick up twigs and wood for the fire. \u00a0 He was lost in his thoughts, \u00a0when he heard a snuffling and rustling close by him. \u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s alright, Max, I\u2019m just here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His horse, Max, was no where near, and he was being rather na\u00efve to have assumed that the animal was because when he looked up, his arms loaded with wood, he found himself confronted by a bear. \u00a0 \u00a0Just a little bear. \u00a0 Actually a really very cute cuddlesome bear\u2026and not just one, but two.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Their little brown eyes peered at him with curiosity and their noses twitched, one stood on its haunches and waved its front paws at Reuben as though in greeting, while the other ambled forwards to sniff at the boy and then playfully rolled over onto his back \u00a0waving his paws and exposing his plump belly while it made funny snorting grunts.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw, my, \u00a0ain\u2019t you two just about the cutest things ever\u2026\u201d Reuben said and was quite prepared to drop his load of wood when he remembered Adam\u2019s warning not to be tempted to touch, pick up, stroke, or do anything at all when confronted with a wild animal, no matter how tame they \u2019pretended\u2019 to be.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He backed away, carefully, his load of wood in his arms as he headed for the camp.\u00a0 With squeals and squeaks the two cubs rollicked along behind him, \u00a0and the faster he walked the faster they moved.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa!\u201d \u00a0 he called but with out any panic in his voice, after all, what harm could two little cubs do to him? \u00a0 \u201cPa, come see what I found\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned and looked at the little boy hurrying towards him with a big grin on his face, half hidden by wood, \u00a0and almost tripping over the cubs as they played around his feet. \u00a0 He shook his head \u201cI thought I told you not to mess with any wild animals\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t do nothing, Pa.\u00a0 They just found me and now they won\u2019t leave me alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was about to say something more when there was movement through the shrubs, the branches of trees were pushed aside as though made of paper, \u00a0a dark shuffling shape suddenly reared out of the small copse of trees and stood erect on her back legs, snuffling the air, front paws extended. \u00a0 The cubs squeaked and squealed at the sight of their mother, \u00a0she though tossed her head and roared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben felt his knees go weak, he clung fast to his wood as though it were a protective shield while his eyes went rounder in his white face, freckles stood out like ink blobs. \u00a0 \u201cDon\u2019t move.\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0he heard his father hiss close beside him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Loosening the gun in its holster Adam made the minimum of movements in order to feel it smooth to his hand. \u00a0 The bear tossed her head, roared again, dropped down onto all four feet and shuffled forwards snuffing the air. \u00a0 The cubs \u00a0stopped moving about, they looked around them as though to ask \u2019what\u2019s all the fuss about\u2019 but the mother bear tossed her head, opened her jaws, bellowed again so loudly that Reuben felt his ears pop.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKeep still. \u00a0 \u00a0Don\u2019t move an inch.\u201d \u00a0 Adam whispered yet again while he worked the gun into his hand \u00a0and took several paces closer to his son, his eyes constantly fixed to the bear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The bear roared again, \u00a0they could smell its breath, stinking and fetid, as it caught the wind and drifted towards them.\u00a0 The cubs snuffled the air, then lolloped towards their mother, not a backward glance at the two humans who watched them and the huge beast with anxious faces, beating hearts and when the mother bear cuffed one of the cubs across the head as though berating it for causing her problems, Adam and Reuben began to relax.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The danger was over, the bear had her babies and all three ambled off. \u00a0 Adam shook his head, \u201cWell, guess we had better find some place else to camp, I don\u2019t want to risk old mother bear visiting us tonight and stealing our food\u2026or deciding that we might make a good main course.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShouldn\u2019t we have run, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo one can out run a bear, son. \u00a0 She just wanted her babies \u2026but no point taking risks now that we know we\u2019re in her territory.\u201d he frowned, \u201cI should have noticed sign of her being hereabouts, but didn\u2019t see a single print or anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nodded and dropped the load of wood he had carried so carefully, and brushed off the wood dust as he walked to his horse.\u00a0 Max and Kami had both been nervous at the smell and sound of the bear but were calm enough to be mounted and to be led away from bear territory as Adam led them back on their trail and towards where they had camped previously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

To Reuben it indicated their camping trek was coming to an end, \u00a0and he glanced over his shoulder just in case he could see old Mother Bear and her cubs again \u2026.but of them there was no sign.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was all beautiful land though, \u00a0and as he rode alongside Adam the views expanded wide, trees, mountains, rivers \u2026 and the bluest of skies above them. \u00a0 It didn\u2019t seem possible that there could be any danger to them, not in such a beautiful place as this, but then he remembered the bears. \u00a0 As his father reminded him, bears were not the only predators prowling their land, what they had to do, was learn how to live alongside them, \u00a0without coming to any harm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 35<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When the new day had dawned it was with the realisation that there was still work to be done on the excavation and her summing up article for Maurice and the Smithsonian. After eating a good breakfast Peggy collected together her sketchbooks, pens, journal and Maurice\u2019s report and stuffed them all into her saddle bags and set off for what she considered to be a days work. Hop Sing presented her with food for her lunch break with a smile and bow of the head, grateful that the young lady who brought a dark cloud into the house was going to be absent from it for a few hours at least.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was also another place where she needed to go, and which she had avoided but knew she would have to visit eventually so resolutely she turned the horse in the direction of the cemetery. Despite a rather depressed feeling clamping down on her she walked through the gravestones until she came upon the one she recognised and that had, at times, haunted her dreams.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The tombstone no longer gleamed white in the sun, not as it had all those years ago when she had first stood before it and read the legend that it bore \u201cFrank Dayton – beloved husband – \u201c . Now it was weather beaten and the granite was pitted with wear from the years of standing in memoriam to the bones beneath it, withstanding the blizzards and the gales, the pitiless sun and winds.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed as she stood there, her head bowed and her hands clasping the posy of flowers that Hop Sing had kindly prepared for her from \u2018his\u2019 garden. \u2018Beloved\u2019 – she thought over that word and wondered why Laura had had it engraved as an eulogy to her husband, the man who had hated her and whom she had resented and loathed. Just another lie among many, Peggy thought as she knelt down and placed the flowers at the foot of the headstone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Strange how much of her life now was involved with death and the dead. She knew there would be no ornate urns containing the organs of this man, nor food to nourish him on his journey to the afterlife, nor weapons or treasures, the familiar things he had enjoyed in life to enjoy again. How many times had she and Maurice and their team of archaeologists discovered such things in so many different parts of the world. It didn\u2019t matter where one went the mysteries of life and death was a common thread binding everyone in the cycle of grief and mourning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But Frank Dayton, her father, had loved her and bounced her on his knee and told her he loved her. She closed her eyes and tried to recapture that feeling of security she felt when he was there, holding her in his arms, telling her he loved her and that he would never leave her. Except that he did\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A memory trickled through her mind now, a morning when he had swung her up into his arms and taken her outside where he had crossed over the yard and set her down on the swing. He sang a song about a girl called \u201cMargaret \u2026\u201d most of the words missing and he had ended up whistling the tune, but it hadn\u2019t mattered. Time with her father was always a gift.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, daddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had leaned in closer, holding the swing steady as he whispered in her ear, not the words of a song but something more important, a secret. She could remember now how his words tickled her ear, and she had wriggled a little so that she could actually hear them. \u201cWe\u2019re going away from her, my lovely, you and I. Would you like that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs Mommy coming too?\u201d she had turned to him, confused.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, she doesn\u2019t want to come. She wants to stay here. It will be just you and me\u2026won\u2019t that be grand, my darling?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust you and Me?\u201d she had whispered and closed her eyes \u201cWill it be far away?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, a long way away..\u201d and he had pushed the swing and the breeze had drifted past her face and when he caught the swing again he whispered \u201cNot a word to Mother about it, it\u2019s our secret.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOur secret.\u201d she had intoned and the swing was pushed and the breezes had blown against her face and her hair had scattered in the breeze<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could remember it clearly now, he had whispered this secret just the day before he had died, and she had let it sink into the depths of her memory, a secret that he had taken to the grave and she had never remembered until now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She knew nothing of the woman who had met Adam Cartwright on the road to the ranch, nothing about the exchange of a letter for $500. That was a secret unknown to her, and hidden away in the past between three people\u2026Laura, Adam and the woman who would have been going on that journey with Frank and his daughter. Ignorant of such an event Peggy stood and wondered where they would have gone, and then with a sigh, turned away and walked towards her horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It didn\u2019t matter now anyway, she mused, that was all gone now, secrets, hatreds, and the love too. Strange how it was the secrets from the past that she always wanted to discover during their excavations\u2026the bodies with their own personal histories, their loves and lives spanning their own personal cycle, their secrets hidden away and which they, with their eager hungry fingers tried to discover as they stripped away the soil, the dust of years.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She mounted the horse and made her way towards the hills where the Spanish soldiers had died and slept for all those years until the children had found them just the previous year. it seemed that every soldier had now found his resting place, and for some their discovery had ended several hundred years of mystery and speculation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy jogged along at a steady pace, pushing the thoughts of her father to the back of her mind and concentrating now on what she had decided to do that morning. She had woken up restless and gone to the books to resume her summary for Maurice, but the sun was warm, the room seemed stifling and sounds of the children were intrusive. The best place to work was where the events took place and she had packed up her journals, pens and equipment to return to the caverns. She realised she had been rather negligent of this task, putting it to one side because of the planned meeting on Saturday, and because of her bout of sickness.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had reached the area where the track led off to the excavation site and was about to turn the horse in order to take the path when a surry came trundling along towards her. A woman seated and alone, modestly dressed, smart little bonnet bouncing upon her head almost as though it was dancing along with the rhythm of the horses feet upon the hard baked road.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning,\u201d the horse was brought to a halt, the woman smiled at her and now Peggy recognised who it was, the assistant Librarian, Miss – ummm – Godfrey.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Dayton, isn\u2019t it?\u201d Elizabeth narrowed her eyes against the glare of the sun, early though it was the sun light was bright and harsh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is, Miss Godfrey. How do you do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVery well, thank you. You\u2019re a long way from the Ponderosa?\u201d Elizabeth observed from her seat in the surry, and she glanced up at the scree covered hillside \u201cWere you going to go up there?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt it a good view then?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy raised her eyebrows and shook her head, \u201cWell, I suppose so\u2026I haven\u2019t really taken much notice.\u201d she remembered her visit with the boys, with Adam, then nodded \u201cYes, it is a good view.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth nodded, and thought for a moment before she tentatively asked if she could come up and join her. \u201cI have nothing to do, and I don\u2019t know anyone. I just wanted to get out of town and take a ride out. Would you mind very much if I were to accompany you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy gave a slight shrug \u201cYou may find it rather boring. I\u2019m here to make some final notes on the excavations here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cExcavations?\u201d Elizabeth said clambering down from the surry and her voice almost obscured by her action, she straightened up and brushed dirt from her skirt. \u201cWhat excavations?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy smiled \u201cYou haven\u2019t been around here very long, have you? Nor read the latest articles Mr deQuille has written about them?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m very new here, just a few weeks really.\u201d she smiled, and Peggy thought the woman was very attractive, particularly when she smiled. \u201cAnd I haven\u2019t read any of the news sheets except for the Situations Vacant column.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it is quite a trek so be careful where you put your feet. If you really want to come with me, I\u2019ll give you a short resume of what this is all about\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She tied the reins of the horse to the back axle of the surry and led the other beast to where the vehicle would be no obstacle to any others and the animals could graze. Then with a hearty \u201cCome along then\u2026\u201d she led the way to the gaping holes above them that resembled so many hungry mouths there to consume them for lunch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Assistant Librarian found the subject matter enthralling. She laboured her way up the hill, at times needing the helping hand of her companion for she was no great walker, all the while listening to what Peggy was telling her about the Conquistadors and how they had left the main body of soldiers to search out what was ahead of them. Obviously with the intention of returning with tales of lost cities of gold. She was lost in the story of the men who rode through scorching heat in their suits of armour, bringing horses to a region where horses had never existed before and introducing to the local natives stories of the shining men who came to search for the yellow dirt that send men crazy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now they stood at the mouth of the cavern and they turned to look around them. The view was amazing and Peggy realised she had forgotten how much so because of her interest in the history of the men that had been killed, the living landscape meant nothing in comparison, to her, of the history of the dead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy had brought along her saddlebags and a canteen of water, which she passed to her companion now. The saddlebags contained food, as well as her writing journal and other equipment . Elizabeth, town dweller, had ridden out prepared with nothing. She drank some water and smiled her thanks, then Peggy turned and led the way inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy\u2019s voice echoed rather in the vast emptiness and Elizabeth shivered involuntarily. Not from fear but from the sudden coolness in the chamber. Peggy took out her journal and turned to the pages where the sketches of the bodies had been made by Maurice \u2026 Elizabeth looked at the pictures, then at the chamber and scanned the height of the walls, the ceiling above them\u2026\u201dAnd they all died, not one survived?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe checked the lists that had been made and they tallied exactly with the names of the men whom Juan Rodrigues Cabrillo had sent out as a scouting party headed by Don Flores who had listed the dead men here, and those who had died along the way. There were letters in the chest found in the cavern, one of which was written by Don Flores, and was intended to be handed to Cabrillo when the detachment returned.\u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy did they come so far?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt seems he decided to take some men and ride on towards Arizona.\u201d she smiled slightly, \u201cNot that it was known by that name then, but Don Flores mentioned a river he was going to travel along, and we know from that he made his way into what we know now as Arizona.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth nodded and found the entrance to the passage way that Reuben and Davy had found and which had led to the chambers discovery. It was dark and damp, she decided not to venture along it but turned to watch as Peggy began to search around the chamber, noting things here and there which to Elizabeth were nothing of any importance at all. But there was little left to discover, Peggy was disappointed in a way, for she was competitive by nature and would have enjoyed finding something Maurice and his men would have overlooked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Even Jan de Jurgen who had represented the Smithsonian when he visited the previous autumn had commented on how little there was left to discover. A reflection, he had concluded, on how efficient Don Flores had been in keeping everything tidy and catalogued, as though he had realised himself that there could be a time when there burial chamber would be considered worthy of history\u2019s attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After a while she turned to her now silent companion and smiled \u201cI did say it would be boring.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, there isn\u2019t really anything to see, is there?\u201d Elizabeth laughed and Peggy found herself smiling in agreement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can finalise things here now. Maurice will be pleased.\u201d she gestured to a pile of rocks for Elizabeth to sit down upon, unaware that hundreds of years previous Don Flores had sat there to write his last Testament. \u201cI\u2019ve some food Hop Sing provided for me. He always gives far too much\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She gestured to a large boulder and Elizabeth rather carefully sat down upon it and gratefully accepted the beef sandwich that was handed her. Hop Sing always assumed that at some time during the day there would be need for Hoss-like sized sandwiches. Sometimes he was right.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHop Sing?\u201d Elizabeth frowned, and cleared her throat \u201cHe\u2019s the Ponderosa cook, isn\u2019t he?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She hoped her voice sounded nonchalant, casual\u2026and it seemed that Peggy was unaware of anything for the younger girl nodded \u201cYes, I\u2019m staying with them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know them very well?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, since I was a baby\u2026.I was born around here, on the Dayton ranch, well, it isn\u2019t the Dayton ranch now of course \u2026\u201d she paused and chewed on her food, thoughts of Abel Greigson floated into her brain which she tried to remove promptly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c\u201dThey seem a very well known family. People talk about them all the time\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo they?\u201d Peggy looked up, that vague look of surprise settling over her face and then she shrugged \u201cThey\u2019ve been here since forever.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They once again settled into silence. They ate the sandwiches, some cake, washed down by water.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know Adam and Olivia Cartwright very well?\u201d Elizabeth felt her heart beating fast even as she asked, and she hoped that the words didn\u2019t vibrate to indicate their importance to her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes\u2026well\u2026sort of. I know Adam very well. He almost married my mother.\u201d Peggy laughed then, but smothered it with a gulp of water. \u201cI don\u2019t know Olivia very well, I havent really met her very often. I\u2019m staying with Hester and Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I have to admit not to knowing them, except by reputation.\u201d Elizabeth said gently, and it was true, she had yet to meet the Cartwrights apart from Mary Ann, very briefly from a distance. But Miss Tyndale knew them all, was as a result of being in Virginia City for so long, part of the history of the place.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOlivia was raised around here \u2026 on the Double D ranch. I don\u2019t know where it is, never been there. didn\u2019t know it existed.\u201d she licked her fingers, drank some more water. \u201cShe\u2019s a very attractive woman though, if you like blondes with green eyes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t you like her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth looked at Peggy with narrowed eyes. Just something, a sharpness in the tone of Peggy\u2019s voice, that little giveaway a woman has when speaking of someone they dislike, and she noticed even in the gloom of the cavern with its myriad shadows, that Peggy\u2019s face had deepened in a blush.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAs I said I don\u2019t really know her. She\u2019s a very quiet woman, I believe\u2026 nothing like Hester who is all bustle and busyness. Nor like Mary Ann who is very bright and intelligent.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, so she\u2019s – Mrs Olivia I mean – she\u2019s not intelligent?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI daresay she is\u2026or she wouldn\u2019t be married to Adam. I doubt if he could tolerate a dull boring wife.\u201d Peggy frowned, and wondered if she were describing her mother when she had said that. \u201cBut Mary Ann is very forward thinking. Very modern.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh yes, of course\u2026you are both involved with the Emancipation for Women movement aren\u2019t you?\u201d Elizabeth wiped her fingers on a handkerchief and dabbed at her mouth, hiding a slight smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes. It\u2019s important \u2026\u201d Peggy replied and stood up to brush away crumbs and then feeling guilty as though she had desecrated a sacred place by doing so..after all she had scattered crumbs on what had been the resting place of those men\u2019s bodies. She shivered at the thought.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Elizabeth made no reply she darted a quick look over at her, but Elizabeth was getting to her feet now, and straightening her shoulders and didn\u2019t look the least bit interested in what Peggy was talking about\u2026.unabashed Peggy continued<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou seemed quite interested when I met you in the library that time\u2026you were going to get some more books on the subject for me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I did order them.\u201d Elizabeth replied turning now towards the entrance of the cavern with a longing to be out in the fresh air and sun light again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou seemed very knowledgrable about the subject?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m a librarian, I\u2019m supposed to be knowledgeable about all manner of subjects.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAren\u2019t you interested in the cause then? I thought you were\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTo be honest, Miss Dayton\u2026I have little time for other causes just now, apart from my own.\u201d Elizabeth frowned and turned away from the rather angry features of the other woman, \u201cSometimes a person\u2019s own problems, situations, difficulties in life\u2026whatever you call them \u2026has to take precedence over any exterior cause, whether it is emancipation for women, giving back land to the Paiute, providing more funds for the Orphanages \u2026whatever\u2026there just isn\u2019t time, or energy, or the emotional capacity to add to the burdens.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I have to say, I am surprised\u2026\u201d Peggy muttered in her usual brusque manner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They stepped outside, the clean fresh air hit their cheeks, flushed from the warmth within the enclosed space\u2026and the conversation no doubt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you have the time to indulge in such things, Miss Dayton, all well and good. But you do need to realise that most women do not \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy stood stock still for a moment and stared at Elizabeth\u2019s retreating back. She couldn\u2019t believe what she had just heard. She couldn\u2019t believe that she had got Miss Godfrey so wrong in thinking that she was a forward modern thinking woman, seeking independence, wanting to achieve things in her life..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She scurried down hastily to catch up with Elizabeth, and then said \u201cMiss Godfrey, as a single independent woman, what, then, do you want out of life?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth stopped, paused a moment\u2026she thought of Abel Greigson, his arm around her waist, his hands in hers and her face softened. She looked at Peggy and smiled, \u201cWhat all women want I suppose\u2026to be loved by a good man, to have children\u2026just to be happy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They parted at the end of the track, Elizabeth to return to town in the surry while Peggy remounted the horse and made her way back to the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She couldn\u2019t believe that Elizabeth Godfrey would settle for domesticity when she had all her life ahead of her, and could achieve so much. In her head Peggy just could not understand that young women were not all cut from the same cloth as herself and Lucy or even Mary Ann. Surely the way life was for women today, needed to be changed and young women must see that, realise that they had an untapped power that was at their finger tips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She walked her horse some way while she pondered over this conundrum and then put her into a loping gait. Unbeknown to her she trotted past the sheltered spot by the river where her mother had twenty years previously sat beside Will Cartwright and confessed her love for him. The river trickled along undisturbed and as uncaring now as it had then of human artifice and contrivance. Peggy turned the horse to take the track that would eventually lead to the three houses that made up the Ponderosa<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 36<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A man on a horse stood like a graven image ahead of her.\u00a0 Momentarily she thought he would turn aside but he maintained his position, facing her, and right in the centre of the road.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was gaunt looking, and his long black hair hung over his shoulders caught back by two feathers, and his black eyes were glittering like hard stones as he stared directly at her. \u00a0 In one hand he held a lance, its tip pointing to the sky. \u00a0 \u00a0His clothing were of worn calico, frayed and torn. \u00a0 Were he a white man Peggy would have thought him a down and out miner or saddle tramp, \u00a0but this was an Indian and one never expected them to be dressed in anything other than rags. \u00a0 Not now\u2026rags suited a vanquished nation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t move not even when she had halted her horse and had looked anxiously from side to side, \u00a0and then \u00a0behind her as though seeking some help to call to, \u00a0assistance ready to hand.\u00a0 But there was none, \u00a0so she reined in her horse and sat there watching him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He walked his horse towards her and she could see now that he was a handsome man for all his gauntness, \u00a0strongly built and muscular although too thin.\u00a0 He wore his rags proudly, his bearing was one of dignity and as he came to a halt by her side she realised that there was a calm about him that left her unafraid.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou are the one who looks at the bones of the shining ones?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t answer but looked at him thoughtfully, while he observed her with his calm black eyes before he nodded as though confirming some thought in his mind for he allowed himself a slight smile before he spoke again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am Tall Bear of the Bannock. \u00a0 I have heard that you stay with my friends, \u00a0the Cartwrights on the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that\u2019s right.\u201d \u00a0she nodded and rather nervously told him her name. \u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m Margaret Dayton. \u00a0 I\u2019m an archaeologist. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He inclined his head gravely \u201cOne who looks at the bones of the dead?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, well, partly and -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou were at the caves where the men with the shining \u00a0-\u201d he gestured at his body indicating clothing but wanting to provide the right word in order not to be ignorant \u201cthe ones who came from long ago with their horses and metal suits.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u00a0 I was, but of what interest is that to you?\u201d \u00a0she asked although she was feeling some pulse of excitement within her as an inkling of an idea trickled through her mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He inclined his head and glanced around him, then pointed to a flat rock \u201cWe talk – yonder.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She inclined her head in agreement and together rode to the rock, the river gurgled close by, and were this a setting for a romantic tryst as it once was years back, then Peggy would have been well pleased. \u00a0 \u00a0 She slid from the saddle and by the time he had dismounted and reached her, she had her saddle bags in her hands and was seated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He did not sit but looked down at her for a moment so that she felt diminished and rather self conscious \u201cAre we going to talk about the time of the fight on the mountain side?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He inclined his head and watched as she produced her sketch pad and pen, she flicked through some pages and then opened it at the page where Maurice had drawn an sketch of the men in the cave, she showed it to Tall Bear who glanced at it and nodded \u201cAll dead long time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes ..all dead and now returned to their home land from far away.\u00a0 A country called Spain.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tall Bear nodded and raised his chin haughtily, she turned another page to show him pictures Maurice had drawn of the suits of armour that had been in the cavern, the helmets with their plumes. \u00a0 Again Tall Bear barely glanced at them and she sighed as she closed the journal and looked up at him<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know the story of this battle?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d \u00a0he said quietly and looked at her thoughtfully \u201cIt was an important time for the Waso Paiute, the Koso, Panamint, Shoshoni, Walapi, and Ute.\u00a0 We were free people then and this was our land.\u201d \u00a0 he spread out his arms wide to encompass the whole area and she knew he meant that everywhere for hundreds, thousands of miles was the land they could travel freely, unhindered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill you tell me the story, Tall Bear, so that I can tell my people and the families of the men who died here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked at her face, so earnest, \u00a0so intelligent and nodded \u201cI came to tell you the story. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He spoke simply as he made the statement. \u00a0 There was no other reason for him to have journeyed so far other than to tell her what had happened according to the story as handed down by word of mouth from one shaman to another through the ages.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The story of the tribes as relayed by this way guaranteed the truth of their history.\u00a0 There could be no deviation.\u00a0 It would be repeated and those who listened would know that when they heard it last it was just as it was told now.\u00a0 A long dead ancestor could return and hear the story of the tribe at his time of life and hear no deviation.\u00a0 The words spoken would be truth, any lie would be challenged by those who heard it.\u00a0 That is why they so distrusted the writing of the white men, knowing how quickly those written words were changed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is the story of the times when our lives changed like the sun chasing the moon and night time falls. \u00a0 We did not know it then but dusk was falling upon our nations and the darkness of night would soon follow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe heard of the coming of these men who rode the animals and wore shining suits even though the sun burned hotly on them.\u00a0 We saw them as they rode over our lands and we heard that they came to find the yellow dirt\u2026what you call\u2026gold. \u00a0 It is what drives white men crazy.\u00a0 They were great in number and some would stay in a village while others rode on.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe saw them come and we had heard already that those who had stayed in the villages they passed through had killed many, raped our women, burned down homes.\u00a0 So we waited and when they were fewer in number and weary we attacked them so that they would know that only so far could they come \u2026 and then they would go back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe battle was not long for the white men were tired and weary from travelling so far in their shining suits in the hot sun. \u00a0 They retreated to the caves \u2026 we followed\u2026 \u00a0but their weapons were not known to us then, \u00a0and our people fell in great numbers.\u00a0 The white men built up a wall to prevent our getting into the cave so we waited until they would need to come out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTime passed. \u00a0 Then two men came from the cave.\u00a0 They were sick. \u00a0 Weak.\u00a0 We thought it was because they had not eaten.\u00a0 We were wrong.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stopped then and frowned. \u00a0 Peggy blinked, so caught up in the story and in picturing the scenes as he had described them that it took her a moment to realise he had stopped. \u00a0 She looked up at him \u201cWhat happened then? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe did not speak their tongue and they did not speak ours. \u00a0 We were tired and wanted to go back to our people and took the white men with us. \u00a0 We took death into our villages. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDeath?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn time we learned that the sickness the men had -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA plague? \u00a0 Your people got sick too?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes. \u00a0 They got sick too. \u00a0 We did not know what this sickness was, and our shamen could not cure us. \u00a0 Many many died. \u00a0 Then people from the villages where the white men had stopped they came to us\u2026they told us of the sickness and how the white men burned down their homes to stop it spreading\u2026is that the right word?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes. \u00a0 It is the right word. \u00a0 But that didn\u2019t work, did it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He shook his head \u201cMany died of the sickness which we had never had before\u2026. The white men brought with them death by their weapons, their greed and their sickness.\u00a0 They shut off the sun and brought in the night.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll this happened a very long time ago, \u00a0Tall Bear,\u201d she said quietly, \u00a0\u201chundreds of years ago.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut still it goes on.\u201d \u00a0Tall Bear replied and then he sighed \u201cThat is all I have come to say.\u00a0 That is the story of this battle and why the people of this land became so few, so weak, \u00a0that when the white men returned we were already a beaten people.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stood up then, and put out her hand which he accepted in his, \u201cI am sorry, Tall Bear.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA woman\u2019s word means even less than that of a man. \u00a0 It is a word blown about on the wind\u2026\u201d he paused and looked at her, then he released her hand and walked away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWait.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He paused and turned to look back at her, and she stood up to walk towards him, her face concentrated on the events of the past that he had related \u201cWhat happened to the two men, the men from the cave that were taken prisoner?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded and glanced around him as though having to collected his thoughts, snatch back the thread of the story he had related \u201cThe two men \u2026one died, the other became part of the people.\u00a0 He had sons.\u00a0 He died an old man.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know his name?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He shrugged then \u201cHe was called Stands Alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut his other name, his Spanish name?\u201d \u00a0she persisted, and put a hand on his arm, \u00a0a sinewy strong arm she noticed as she quickly withdrew it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He shook his head and without another word turned to his horse, mounted with an ease that she \u00a0quite envied and then walked the horse away and back onto the road.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy watched him go as without a backword glance at her he rode away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She returned to sit down and pulled her sketch book and note pad and pens onto her lap, and with a determined concentration began to sketch pictures of her visitor with deft swift strokes of her pen.\u00a0 She was a good artist, not brilliant, not even as good as Maurice, but she was able to convey what she had seen onto paper well enough for it to considered a true impression. \u00a0 After she was satisfied at her drawings she began to write down the information he had given her.\u00a0 It was the other side of the coin, so to speak, the untold and unknown version of the events that they had only been able to speculate upon and, she paused, how interesting that two of the soldiers had left the cave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She checked through Maurice\u2019s notes and picked out the two names that they had not been able to place, names that had no bones or indication of their presence in that cave at all. \u00a0 So now they knew that two men had not died in the cave, but as a result had caused the deaths of more than their puny weapons could ever have done. \u00a0 A silent and more deadly bullet had effectively wiped out most of the local people and made their resistance in later years, futile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 37<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sheriff Carney stepped down from the sidewalk onto the road and walked towards the woman who had just left Ridleys Livery stable. Elizabeth Godfrey was about to step into the road when Nate reached her side, removed his hat and nodded a greeting,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Godfrey?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSheriff?\u201d she smiled pleasantly, he was a handsome man, so tall with eyes that were rather like those of a spaniel she had once owned. She had seen him in town occasionally but had never spoken before now, \u201cIs there something I can do for you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded and cleared his throat, the sun glinted on his badge so that she had to narrow her eyes against the glare, \u201cIf you could come with me, Miss Godfrey, there\u2019s something I need to discuss with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDiscuss with me? In your office? Are you arresting me?\u201d she stepped back, a natural recoil and she realised as soon as she had done it that it was a mistake She reminded herself that she had nothing to be ashamed of, nothing of which she could be accused and with a sigh she nodded and quietly stepped along with him,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He glanced at her out of the corner of his eyes, and liked what he saw for she was attractive and he was a handsome man who liked the company of women. He cleared his throat again \u201cI am sorry about this, Miss Godfrey, but it shouldn\u2019t take too long.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m intrigued, sheriff.\u201d she murmured and forced a smile, noticed as she approached the sheriff\u2019s office the slant of eyes from the people who passed her and the sheriff, the spark of curiosity on their faces.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The interior of the office was cooler than it had been outside and she was grateful for that. Momentarily stepping into the room from the light prevented her from seeing who was there, and it wasn\u2019t until Nate had pulled out a chair by the desk that she could see the men \u2026 two deputies whom she had seen about town, and a tall thickset man whom she didn\u2019t recognise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s her,\u201d this man said without prompting and he approached the desk to look at her more closely \u201cYes, that\u2019s Katherine Royale.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t give in to the quaver that hit her stomach and trickled down to her knees, grateful that she was seated for she was not sure what would have happened had she still been standing. She looked at Nate and then at the man \u201cI don\u2019t know you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMay be not, but I know you\u2026.\u201d the man turned to the sheriff \u201cThis is Rosemarie Royale\u2019s daughter from Bodie. I can swear to it on a stack of bibles\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo need to do that, Mr Silverman. Take a seat please and just be quiet a moment while I discuss this matter with Miss Godfrey.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe ain\u2019t any Miss Godfrey, she\u2019s \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know\u2026\u201d Nate put up a hand for silence and then turned his dark eyes to the woman, admiring her quiet dignity as she sat there, ramrod straight, her shoulders square, her hands folded neatly over her purse in her lap. She met his gaze with a calm that he wondered she was actually feeling inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Godfrey\u2026Mr Silverman here claims to have recognised you as Miss Katherine Royale who lived in Bodie for some years, the daughter of a Major and Mrs Rosemarie Royale. Is he correct?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t answer straightaway, just looked at him and he saw a fleeting look of anguish in her eyes before she nodded \u201cHe\u2019s correct. I am – was – Katherine Royale.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere you are, didn\u2019t I say so?\u201d Silverman almost shouted and looked at the deputies and then the sheriff as though he had achieved the impossible \u201cNow you arrest her, sheriff, arrest her for the crimes she\u2019s committed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Again Nate raised a hand for silence and looked at her, she had bowed her head as though to examine her feet, but when she raised it her eyes were calm,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have not committed any crimes. Whatever Mr Silverman claims – he\u2019s wrong.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Silverman drew in his breath as though he were about to explode with the full list of crimes he held against her, but once more Nate\u2019s hand insisted on silence. He picked up a pen, and jotted words down on a piece of paper, then looked at her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Godfrey\u2026.Miss Royale\u2026 \u201c he paused and frowned \u201cYou have already admitted to being Katherine Royale so for the sake of formality during this interview that is the name by which I shall address you.\u201d he glanced up and she nodded, he sighed and leaned forward \u201cMr Silverman claims that land was stolen from him some years ago, land that is now yielding a high percentage of silver ore. He also claims that he was the victim of fraud, where he lost several thousand dollars\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know nothing about that\u2026\u201d she said quickly and turned to Silverman, \u201cTruly Mr Silverman, I know nothing about any of these charges. I had the misfortune to be my mother\u2019s daughter, but I was certainly not party to her crimes\u2026which, I have to admit, are many.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate frowned \u201cYour mother is dead, isn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, thankfully.\u201d Katherine nodded and frowned, \u201cPerhaps if she were alive now she could answer for her crimes but somehow I doubt if she would admit to them\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Silverman was pacing the floor, his hands clasped behind his back and his face purpling, \u201cThat\u2019s not going to restore my land to me, is it? Nor the profits I\u2019ve lost out on, nor the \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother kept a journal for every year – oh for about a decade I should imagine. I should imagine details of what she did \u2026her transaction as she would term it\u2026.could be found in one of them.\u201d Katherine frowned, it seemed to her that even now her mother was reaching out from the grave and clawing back her power over her. Guilty by association, was that the correct terminology? \u201cI can tell you where the journals are, you can check through them all.\u201d she paused \u201cPerhaps Mr Hiram Woods should have them and he could restore things legally. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate glanced at Silverman who had stood his pacing and was glaring at the woman so calmly seated in the chair \u201cYou must have known what your mother was doing\u2026you\u2019re just as guilty as her. You were as involved in her dirty doings as those men she hired to carry out her work for her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate noticed now how the woman\u2019s lips trembled, colour washed out of her face and what looked like tears formed in her eyes, he glanced at Clem \u201cGet some water for the lady, Clem.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m alright\u2026\u201d she whispered but when Clem handed her the glass she accepted it gratefully and sipped it, before setting the empty glass back onto the desk. She turned to Silverman \u201cI promise you, I didn\u2019t get involved with what my parents were doing. I thought my father was helping the community, restoring some order to it\u2026I was given the impression that he was – he was a good man – doing all he could to make Bodie a decent place in which to live.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour father was well intentioned enough,\u201dSilverman admitted gruffly, \u201cbut he allowed himself to be manipulated by that witch of a wife of his\u2026and you lived with them, you must have known what she was doing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sagged slightly and leaned against the back of the chair, looked at the empty glass and then at Nate, \u201cI suppose I must have done. I was there, I lived with her\u2026.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a while she was silent, struggling to come to terms with what was happening and then quietly, so quietly that Nate had to lean forwards to catch the words she said<\/p>\n

“She killed my father, you know? I didn’t even know that until I found her journals, she had even written that all down as though it were some kind of business deal. How much it cost to hire the killer, who did it, when\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Silverman paused, looked shocked and said in a calmer voice that he hadn\u2019t known\u2026but then what did it matter, she took over the reins, didn\u2019t she? She ruled over Bodie, ran rough shod over everyone there, killed, stole, plundered\u2026allowed her men to destroy everything that decent people tried to build up. Surely she had known, how could she have lived with such a monster and not known.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe was a monster,\u201d she said quietly, again in a voice barely a whisper so that Nate had difficulty hearing her. \u201cI never questioned anything, I never thought beyond the fact of existing through another day. She destroyed my life and I let her go on doing so and every day I just went through the motions, just slept, ate, survived\u2026\u201d she clenched her fist, tightly and sagged a little lower in her chair. \u201cThere was no law in Bodie. She made sure of that, she was, she would tell me, The Law. I just accepted it. I didn’t even question the absurdity of it. I suppose that makes me guilty, doesn\u2019t it?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She raised her eyes to Nate and then turned them to Silverman, who had the decency to look away. She had lost the colour in her face and Clem took the glass and refilled it. He put it on the table and it stayed there, while she stared at it as though finding no strength left in her bones to reach out to pick it up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow could you have accepted it, Miss Royale? Surely you could have done something \u2026?\u201d it was Silverman, his voice was calm, even pleasant, now that the anger had subsided he was even looking like a rational human being.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat could I have done? Men came into Bodie and set themselves up as the law, and the next thing they were gone. I didn\u2019t see my mother as a monster then, although she had already ruined my life. I didn\u2019t see her behind the men who tarred and feathered one sheriff, and rode him out of town. I didn\u2019t know she was – what she was, truly I didn\u2019t. I think after – what she had done to me – and I was so ill – I lived in some kind of dream, a twilight world – I tried to help the community, I remember even discussing things like that with her, about setting up schools for the poorer children, improving the orphanage and she was always in agreement, saying about setting money aside from father\u2019s pension.\u201d her voice trailed away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could remember one day wondering where the jewellery came from, the rings and necklaces her mother wore\u2026surely fathers pension hadn\u2019t stretched that far, and she had asked her mother only to be told they were passed down through the family, and the long story that was spun about their heritage. Stories, stories\u2026always another story \u2026until suddenly she realised the gaps, the missing pieces, the inaccuracies of one story to another.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think I really woke up to what was happening until we brought Sofia Cartwright home\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate glanced up sharply, his pen hovered \u201cSofia Cartwright? What has she to do with it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem cleared his throat, of course Nate hadn\u2019t been here then, it was Candy Canaday who had been sheriff and very quickly the deputy gave Nate the story about Sofia\u2019s disappearance and how the Cartwrights had gone in the blizzards to find her and bring her home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate looked at her \u201cWhy didn\u2019t you just bring her back here to town? She could have been looked after by the doctor here until her parents came for her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stared at him as though not seeing him now\u2026instead she saw herself holding the little girl on her lap, the blinding snow, the grim features of her mother and of the man who, at that time, was her mother\u2019s current love interest. Had she even stopped to think about turning back to Virginia City \u2026she was tired of the whole thing, first Luke, then Adam, and now this sheriff looking at her and expecting her to provide the answers to questions that had no real answers at all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t question what my mother said. She and Clifton Reid –<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cClifton Reid -\u201d Silverman snorted in contempt \u201cA murdering thug if ever there was one, well, he got what he deserved too\u2026rumour has it that the old lady \u2026\u201d he paused, stopped and turned his back on them to stare out of the window.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate turned his attention back to her, and nodded \u201cGo on\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI found her, the child, by the fire, in the snow. Reid said there was a blizzard coming, and I didn\u2019t know where we were, I was too miserable to listen to anything they said anyway. All I could remember was that we had to get to Bodie before the blizzard struck or we would never get there at all, probably freeze to death. I never argued with them, mother would tell me – not to think – so I didn\u2019t. I just trailed along in their wake \u2026.it wasn\u2019t until they came, the Cartwrights and Luke Dent, that I realised what was happening to me, to Sofia \u2026 \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She reached out for the glass of water now and gulped it down, shivered and replaced the empty glass on the desk. Nate was looking at her, he had written down words on the paper, she could see the squiggles of words, she glanced over at Silverman.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou Can\u2019t imagine what my life was like, Mr Silverman\u2026.living with them. I was na\u00efve, stupid, ignorant \u2026.but I never harmed anyone deliberately. We were coming home from Warsop, seeing my sister who had had a baby son. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her voice cracked now, and she shivered, \u201cShe had a daughter, a little girl called Alice. Except that Alice was my daughter, my mother had taken her and handed her to Emily, a so called barren woman but a married woman. I was not married. That was my shame, my sin. An unmarried mother. I sat in that coach listening to her talking about my sister, the new baby, the child Alice and all the time thinking, \u2018That\u2019s my little girl, mine, and she doesn\u2019t know me, she doesn\u2019t even like me.’ And I felt dead in side, quite dead. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Silverman clicked his tongue against his teeth, and shook his head, he turned to Nate but the sheriff gave him a glare before looking at Katherine who sat there but had a glazed expression on her face, as though she were reliving that cold, bitterly cold, ride from Warsop, having left her daughter, having endured her sister\u2019s triumphs, her mother\u2019s taunts. \u201cReid said we had crossed the Ponderosa and were on the way home, I saw a fire .. No \u2026I didn\u2019t not right away, it was because I couldn\u2019t bear being in the coach with her and ordered him to stop \u2026we got out, and I saw the fire then, and found her. She looked so like my Alice\u2026.\u201d a tear rolled down her cheek, dripped onto her hand and she looked down at it as though surprised to see it there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat has that to do with what happened to me, to others in town\u2026\u201d Silverman now said, tired to the emotion, tired of the time wasting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Mr Silverman\u2026nothing I suppose. Except that the Cartwrights came, Luke Dent \u2026a friend of my fiance\u2019s \u2026he came. And I – I guess I woke up – realised what had been happening. I knew she kept journals, I had seen her writing in them, she\u2019d laugh if I commented about them and just say a woman should keep her secrets locked up in a safe place\u2026.so I found them, found the journal for the year my father died and \u2026 learned how he died. I woke out of a nightmare and found myself living in one.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They were quiet for a moment. Clem coughed and said something about doing his rounds to which Nate nodded and told him to take Watts with him. The two men left the room, the door closed with a gentle thud.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy are you here, Miss Royale? In Virginia City?\u201d Nate now asked, his voice soft and kindly<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So she told him how she had seen Grant Tombs at the trial, admired his courage knowing that he had to live down the reputation of his father, and it made her realise that she could do the same.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t come to cause any harm – just to start a new life, like Grant has to do. I suppose I could have gone anywhere really, perhaps it would have been wiser if I had done so. I just -\u201d she paused and frowned then gave a slight shrug of the shoulders \u201cI suppose, with no one to tell me what to do I just went to where there was some one I could relate to, even though he doesn\u2019t realise it. I didn\u2019t come to cause trouble for the Cartwrights, I don\u2019t yearn for Sofia nor desire to steal her away. I just want to live a normal life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate looked at Silverman who was rubbing along his jaw and looking confused. Then he looked at her again, \u201cI\u2019ll have to discuss this with Hiram Woods, and if you need a lawyer, perhaps he would act on your behalf?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She inclined her head and Silverman walked to the window and looked out at the people passing by, \u201cThe journals\u2026you said you had them?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes. Well, they\u2019re in a safe deposit box in town here. Mr Weems is the Manager, I can give you the key \u2026\u201d and she rummaged about in her purse and produced the key which she handed to Nate \u201cI only read the journal entry regarding my father \u2026flicked through some \u2026couldn\u2019t bear to read any thing more but it\u2019s all there, enough information I\u2019m sure to make restitution where possible.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She dropped the key into Nate\u2019s hand, a broad hand the fingers of which curled around the little piece of metal and withdrew from hers. Nate looked at Silverman \u201cAre you staying in town, Mr Silverman? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAt the Whitby Hotel.\u201d the man intoned, then he turned and looked at her \u201cI won\u2019t be pressing any charges, Miss Royale. I reckon you\u2019re more sinned against than sinning. Your mother was \u2026\u2026\u201d he shut his mouth, the words he wanted to use would be honest but not the kind she would want to hear, he turned to the sheriff, \u201cIf you give Mr Woods the journals, perhaps arrange for an appointment with him sometime.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll do that, Mr Silverman.\u201d Nate replied and added \u201cIt may be necessary for Miss Royale to discuss this further with you, with a lawyer present of course.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Silverman nodded and without another word slapped his hat back onto his head and left the building. \u201cWell, Miss Royale, you\u2019re a puzzle.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed \u201cI didn\u2019t intend to be, sheriff. There was a time when life seemed very straightforward \u2026 I was engaged to be married, he got killed, and then everything just fell to pieces.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stood up \u201cAm I free to go?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, but Miss Royale\u2026.a word of advice\u2026.just be yourself from now on. This town is full of people who have made mistakes, some more serious than others, some answerable to the law and some not\u2026but don\u2019t be like them, don\u2019t hide behind a false name. Just be yourself, you\u2019ll be better respected for it if you do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut then everyone will know who I am\u2026like Mr Silverman, they\u2019ll come and \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to explain anything to them, Miss Royale. Grant Tombs – you mentioned him earlier? Well, he has to face up to far worse than you have, his father was evil, a monster, your mother is just a pale shadow of him\u2026but if Grant can face life honestly, then why not give it a try too?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled, a small smile to be sure, but it was in her eyes where small smiles shine quite large. He watched her leave the building and close the door softly behind her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 38<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nibbled at the meat and then sipped some water. The camp fire was spitting flames as fat from the meat dripped onto the burning wood, scorching the side of the coffee pot that was steaming and ready for pouring. For a moment or two he kept glancing over at his father who, aware of his son’s scrutiny, waited for the questions that were heading his way. He had eaten his fill had been staring into the flames while working out the amount of time it would take to get to home for Reuben to get to bed ready for the school day<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, why did you leave the Ponderosa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam raised his eyebrows and hunched his shoulders. He hadn’t expected that particular field of enquiry and stretched over to pick up the coffee pot and pour some into his cup.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Reuben, what did you say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy did you go to sea and leave the Ponderosa? Didn\u2019t you want to stay here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His father smiled and shrugged, sipped a little of the coffee into the fire and stretched out his legs \u201cNo, at the time, I didn\u2019t. I thought it was time for me to move on, and do something else before I got too old to do anything other than tot up the ledgers or move a herd of cows from one pasture to the other.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but why did you leave\u2026didn\u2019t you love Granpa anymore?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave a slight snort of a laugh, \u201cOf course I loved my Pa. Nothing like that changes just because of – circumstances – \u201c he sighed and smiled over at the boy who was now licking his fingers and had tossed the bone he was gnawing onto the flames, \u201cI was getting older, and I knew if I stayed here any longer then I would never achieve anything other than being here\u2026I wanted more, than riding around here, herding cows, eating dust, and all the things that ranch life entails.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut you\u2019re doing all that kind of thing again now, arnt\u2019 you?\u201d Reuben said sagely and smiled, he sidled up against his father and when Adam put his arm around the boys\u2019 shoulders felt a sense of comfort and security.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and happy to do so, son. I got it out of my system, all that wishing to be somewhere else, and not being able to fulfil what I wanted to do with my life. I had always loved the sea, it was in my blood – my mother\u2019s family were sea faring folk, and so was Pa\u2019s mostly. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He leaned forward to pour more coffee into the mug and then settled back, Reuben regained his place, his head on Adam’s shoulder, \u201cWhen I went to college I would stay with Granpa Stoddard and of course he would fill my head with his adventures at being at sea, just as Pa had done on the journey here \u2026 you have to remember it took years to get to the Ponderosa, I did a lot of growing up listening to my Pa and his stories about the sea, the ships ..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd the shipwrecks and sharks, Pa.\u201d Reuben reminded him, having listened to a fair few of the stories himself over the past few years.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed and Reuben felt the motion, the rise and fall of his father\u2019s chest, the soft breath drifting over his head, \u201cGranPa Stoddard would take me on trips on board some of the ships. He had a ship in harbour The Wanderer, and I would go with the men when I had the chance, or I\u2019d watch them come and go, the sails billowing out as the wind caught them, the little tugs almost shepherding them to sea.. Well, it fired my imagination I guess.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sipped some of the coffee, it was lukewarm now, and he allowed himself to think back to the times when he stayed with Abel Stoddard in his cottage by the harbour front. The smell of the sea, the salty language of the seamen, the cries of the gulls. He smiled, and sighed again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you miss it, Pa, not being on the ships?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, of course. It was part of my life for a long time\u2026well, long enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen why did you leave it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSame reason why I left the Ponderosa. It was time to go, time to come home. Besides which, I had met your Ma and wanted to settle down, be a real father to you and Sofia.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cand Nathaniel?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam chuckled and nodded \u201cYes, and to Nathaniel, and to any more that come along. It\u2019s hard being a long distance father, never knowing if your ship would sink the next gale that comes along.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOr get eaten by sharks\u2026\u201dReuben intoned morbidly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou and those sharks\u2026\u201d Adam laughed, \u201cYou wouldn\u2019t want to meet one of them, I can tell you. Nothing so dead as the eyes of a shark, especially when it\u2019s heading your way and your hearts hammering like a drum under your ribs and there\u2019s no where to go -\u201d he shivered, some memories were best left buried. \u201cSo have you decided what you want to do yet, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI want to be bronco buster, I told you that already, didn\u2019t I? And I want to be a cowboy too, like you and Uncle Joe and Uncle Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, he frowned thoughtfully for a moment, \u201cYour Ma told me once that your father had been involved with politics, could have been one of the youngest senators in the country. Would that appeal to you?\u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben screwed up his nose \u201cI thought he was an architect.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe was, but he was also involved in politics\u2026had he lived he would have had to make a choice, like I had\u2026mine was the Ponderosa or the sea\u2026his would have been designing houses or sitting in the House of Representatives.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nodded thoughtfully, he didn\u2019t have a clue what Adam was talking about, except that it sounded as though his real father would have had quite a future. He was quiet for a while thinking about Robert, trying to dredge up memories and wondering why he seemed so far away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe thing is, son, everyone has choices to make\u2026in their lives\u2026you will have as well, one day.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI might go to sea, like you.\u201d Reuben looked up at his father just as Adam glanced down at him, their eyes met, they smiled at one another, understanding each other perfectly and feeling the bond closer than ever between them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if you do, don\u2019t leave it too late, like I did.\u201d Adam smiled and then roused himself, disentangled himself from the boys arms and stood up, \u201cTime to break camp and get on home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nodded, he poured water from the coffee jug over the dying embers of the fire, and then kicked dust to make sure it had died out, then began to gather up their belongings, leaving the camp site as close to how they had found it as possible.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam cast a wary glance over and nodded in approval, \u201cYou could be an explorer.\u201d<\/p>\n

He said and tossed the boys jacket over to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOr a mountaineer\u2026.or a traveller\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Their voices died into silence as they checked their saddle bags, then mounted their horses. Max and Kami turned around as they were led away from the grass that they were enjoying, and waited for them to mount into the saddles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben glanced over his shoulder, up at the wooded slopes of the mountains and then back to meet the kindly gaze of his father, \u201cThanks, Pa, it was a great time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, \u201cLet\u2019s get home.\u201d was all he said in reply and turned his horse in the direction of home.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Katherine Royale left the sheriff\u2019s office with her head spinning. It had been a shock to see Mr Silverman and to listen to the accusations he had poured out at her. She was grateful for Nate\u2019s kindly handling of the situation but it made her aware that such a thing could happen again. She made her way down the street without thinking where to go, her feet just aimlessly going forward. She passed the school at the corner of C street and didn\u2019t even glance at it, and then she passed into the more residential area of town all the time wondering about what she should do now, where could she go for advice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A man stepping through a gate and walking up to the door of a house caught her attention and she watched as he pushed the door open with all the familiarity of it being home to him. She watched the door close behind him, and then, having made up her mind she turned in that direction and within minutes was knocking on the door to Roy Coffee\u2019s house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy answered the door with his spectacles balanced on his forehead and his watery blue eyes looking keenly at her, he nodded \u201cAnything I can do for you, Miss?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hope so. I need some help, some advice\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked a little startled, and glanced over his shoulder where a young man could be seen loitering in the shadows. Grant Tombs stepped forward \u201cOh hello.” then silence as he tried to remember who she was, realisation and “Miss Gregory, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that\u2019s right. I didn\u2019t think you would remember me.\u201d she forced a smile, too anxious to feel like smiling but it seemed the right thing to do<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh of course I remember you.\u201d he smiled, the only difference being that his smile was genuine and he seemed to really want to smile at her. \u201cMiss Gregory is the Assistant Librarian, Roy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh, yes, I heard that Amelia had an assistant at last\u2026come on in, my dear. Would you like some coffee? Tea?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo thank you,\u201d She replied and quite voluntarily without any help from Grant\u2019s head shaking behind Roy’s shoulder, \u201cI had some earlier.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was led into the parlour and sat down, the two men sat opposite her and waited. After a few moments of silence she cleared her throat with a little cough, and then with a sigh looked at Grant \u201cI was at the trial, your father\u2019s trial.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grant looked uncomfortable but not too embarrassed, he nodded \u201cYes, and what does that have to do with your coming to see me? Are you someone my father \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, nothing like that, nothing at all. I just wanted to say how much I admired you then, and now\u2026for getting on with your life, for not hiding away and trying to pretend it never happened.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s no point in doing that, is there?\u201d Grant said, rather brusquely this time, \u201cRoy offered me a home and I was more than pleased to accept it. I\u2019m not my father, and I don\u2019t intend to let my father run my life now he is dead, he did enough of that when he was alive.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded, that statement alone would be something she would have to think about carefully later on. She looked at them both with a wariness in her eyes that even Roy noticed, he asked gruffly what exactly she wanted them to tell her. What advice did she really want to hear from them<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother was Rosemarie Royale, from Bodie.\u201d she said quietly and looked at Roy whom she knew had accompanied the Cartwrights on the trek to find Sofia.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAh,\u201d Roy said immediately and nodded, tugged at his moustache and grimaced, he looked at Grant \u201cMrs Royale was just a few rungs down the ladder from your father so far as – er – breaking the law was concerned.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh!\u201d Grant replied looking at their visitor with renewed interest, \u201cBut I thought you were called Godfrey?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI made the name up. I didn\u2019t want people to know who I am. I – lacked – your courage, Mr Tombs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The two men nodded but it was Roy who now asked her what exactly she wanted them to do for her. She sighed, slumped a little in the chair and shook her head \u201cI don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn which case we won\u2019t be much help.\u201d Grant said quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“I know,” she said again very quietly and her fingers nervously played with the clutch to her purse, she looked from one to the other of them, trying to collect random scattered thoughts as she did so. \u201cI’ve just seen the sheriff, he suggested I take on my name, Katherine Royale. But I\u2019m not a man, I\u2019m just a rather weak woman, and I\u2019ve already been here some weeks establishing myself as Elizabeth Godfrey. I don\u2019t want people to know I was associated with Rosemarie Royale and all that happened with her. I want to be accepted as my true person and it isn\u2019t Katherine Royale.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy nodded and stood up, \u201cYou need a glass of water.\u201d he said and made his way to the kitchen where they heard water glugging into a glass.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grant looked at her and frowned, \u201cI don\u2019t know much about what happened with you, or your mother but I think you should see Mr woods. He would be able to help you give, you the advice you need.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy handed her the glass and she drank it wondering if she would get to the Boarding House before needing the lavatory. She stood up and after handing Roy the glass made her way to the door, \u201cDo you think he would see me tomorrow?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll make an appointment for you, and let you know\u2026you\u2019ll be at the library won\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded and shook his hand, then shook Roys,.\u201dThank you.\u201d was all she could say even though she wasn\u2019t really sure for what she was thanking them .<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy watched her go, and turned to Grant \u201cMmm, best tell you what happened \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grant nodded, although he still kept his eyes on Miss Godfrey as she made her way to the Albierno\u2019s Boarding House. \u201cYes, please do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Elizabeth made her way to the boarding house she asked herself again and again why had she bothered to call on Roy and Grant. what help had they been, and what help had she actually expected? She thought over what Grant had said about his father, and knew that she had the same desire, to be totally free from Rosemarie’s influence and life. She also knew that Hiram Woods was an excellent person to whom she could entrust her hopes, her fears and her future desires. That certainty lasted all of five minutes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 39<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann had not slept well since Joe\u2019s return home. It wasn\u2019t because she was nervous about giving her speech but because she was now not sure whether or not she should give the speech at all. Her conflict arose from the fact that Joe had fallen into the trap of doing what many men do to placate their wives\u2026he had gone along with her and allowed her to think that she had his whole hearted approval and that it would \u2018go away\u2019 in time. The more she thought about that aspect of his character the more uncomfortable she felt, and the less inclined she was to talk openly to him about it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe on the other hand had no such misgivings. He had given her his support because he loved her, and wanted her to be happy. He had never really thought that Peggy would seize upon Mary Ann\u2019s interest and arouse even more from it, and although he could dimly recall his wife referring to the meeting and her part in it, he had never given it serious consideration.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Of course he had discussed it with his brothers, and he could remember what each of them said which had, in an odd way, confirmed his reasons for not expecting Mary Ann to go any further with it. He has assumed that she would realise where she was happiest, with him and the children.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had tried to be his usual self around her but somehow it had not worked, both of them were treading on egg shells around the other and as a result their conversation was stilted and stiff. There was none of the gentle teasing, the close contact, the kiss on the back of the neck or the sweet endearments of the previous times he had returned home from a few days absence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Instead he was conscious that she would think he was trying to coax her back into her usual loving self and that in turn was an attempt to get her to abandon her ideals. Mary Ann on the other hand wouldn\u2019t permit herself the flirting and kissing that she usually enjoyed in case he assumed she was softening in her attitude towards him and was, therefore, quite prepared to abandon her project.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The children sensed the tension between their parents and Daniel was, as a result, wilful and naughty. Constance was confused, one moment she would be all smiles and the next she would be whining and whimpering and demanding attention. The more attention she received from one or the other of the adults, the naughtier Daniel became in his efforts to get the attention of either his mother or father.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was not a happy household and when Peggy arrived with wide smiles and bright greetings Joe was blunt to the point of rudeness and Mary Ann was overly demonstrative in welcoming her in . Like the children, she was confused.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Unlike the children however, she didn\u2019t take much notice of them but declared in her bright clear voice \u201cI had the most interesting day today. I went to the cavern to make my final assessment and -\u201d she rummaged among her saddle bags and pulled out her sketch book and journal \u201cI had the most amazing meeting with an Indian. He told me his name was Tall Bear and -\u201d she flipped over the pages until she came to the drawing she had made of him, and smiled broadly at them both as they leaned forward to see it, \u201che told me all about the battle here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTall Bear\u2026Johnny\u2026\u201d Joe said and took the drawing from her to look at it more closely, \u201cHe\u2019s been a friend of ours for a long time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe has?\u201d Peggy\u2019s brow creased a little, \u201cHe never said about knowing you\u2026ah, come to think of it, he did mention knowing that I was with you, so I guess he found that out -\u201d she shrugged, what did it matter anyway, \u201cHe told me that the battle was the last of several skirmishes along the way, how the Spanish soldiers stayed in some villages along the way, his people decided to stop them here and that was when the battle took place.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHis shaman would have kept account of that, it would have been repeated verbally throughout the generations.\u201d Joe said quietly and handed her the picture \u201cdid he say anything else?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

While he pulled out the chair to sit down Mary Ann began to prepare coffee, from the other room Constance was crying for attention and with a quiet ‘excuse me’ she left them to attend to her daughter. Daniel came in and stood beside his father, and then, slowly, crept up onto his knee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe told me that the soldiers had brought sickness to his people, so many died as a result that when the Spanish soldiers came in force there were not sufficient of them left to fight back. He did say that two of the men survived\u2026the Spanish men I mean\u2026and I got the impression that they stayed with the tribe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhich means that some of the Bannocks or Shoshone may have a Spanish blood line\u2026A pity he couldn\u2019t tell you who although it does explain why there were Spanish soldiers\u2019 helmets in their lodges.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey called the one who survived \u201cStands Alone\u201d. perhaps because he was shunned by the tribe, do you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked at Joe earnestly, but Joe shook his head, and shrugged \u201cIndians sometimes change their names quite frequently. We\u2019ve known Johnny as Johnny Tall Bear, as well as Johnny Brave Heart during the time we have known him.\u201d Joe replied and glanced at Mary Ann who was now back in the kitchen, Constance resting on her hip, while she attempted to make the coffee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Without a word he got up, gently turned her to the chair to sit down while he continued with the coffee, in turn she smiled at him, Constance snuggled into her chest, and stuck her thumb in her mouth, Daniel, abandoned by his father, sidled onto the vacant chair. Peggy sighed \u201cMaurice is going to be so pleased by this\u2026.it\u2019s like another chapter in the story, and if we could track down some of Stands Alone\u2019s descendents that would be even better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d Mary Ann asked with a slight frown, \u201cWhat good would it do them?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe placed the cups of coffee in front of them and then took his seat, lifting Daniel up and then down again onto his lap, \u201cMary Ann\u2019s right \u2026 what good would it do them? It wouldn\u2019t make their lives any easier.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut they could be descended from some noble Spanish family, they could\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think a noble Spanish family would want to acknowledge members that were of Bannock or Shoshone blood? Over the course of the generations since that battle, there would be more Native Indian blood than Spanish, so why bother to even try to find out to which Spanish family they came from\u2026\u201d Joe shook his head again, \u201cIt may seem a romantic notion, Peggy, but prejudices run deep, and that man’s descendants could cut their veins to prove they were from that family, but I doubt that any Spanish nobleman would detect a drop of Spanish blood in it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I just thought that maybe – well – maybe it would be quite a lovely story to finish the excavation on.\u201d Peggy sighed and looked downcast, then brightened up and smiled \u201cBut it is still a good story, isn\u2019t it? There\u2019s no need to go so deeply into it really\u2026I suppose\u2026\u201d and again she sighed and pulled a comical face that made Daniel laugh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think Stands Alone\u2019s Indian descendants would want to acknowledge their white blood either.\u201d Joe said quietly, \u201cthey suffered a lot back then, and they\u2019re suffering equally as much now from white man\u2019s oppression.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI noticed how thin he was, and his clothes were hanging off of him\u2026his horse looked as though it would collapse within the next few hours. Oh dear, what a mess\u2026\u201d Peggy said and looked at her drawing \u201cHe looked so handsome, so proud. Sometimes -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe glanced at Mary Ann who gave a little smile before she turned to Peggy \u201cThey\u2019re a proud people, Peggy, and they\u2019ve learned to be cautious, we\u2019ve offered them horses before now, but they refuse because other white men could accuse them of stealing them, and hang them ..any excuse to get rid of another Indian.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy said nothing to that but rolled up her sketches and slipped them into her saddlebag, along with the journal. \u201cWell, I\u2019ll let Maurice and the Smithsonian know. At least it tidies up one loose end. Perhaps Mr deQuille will write an article about it\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She drank her coffee and then smiled at them both brightly, then turned to Mary Ann, \u201cHave you written out your speech for Saturday yet?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann blushed and Joe looked down, hard faced, at his cup and saucer. Peggy chattered on, either she hadn\u2019t noticed their discomfiture or she chose to ignore it, but she told them about meeting the Librarian and how disinterested she was in women suffrage, \u201cHow strange, I was amazed, I thought she would be so interested because she knew all the books, and told me she had others on order.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat does she want then, did she say?\u201d Joe now asked, wishing that she would leave them now, and also that his arm didn\u2019t ache so much. It crossed his mind that he should have gone to see Paul or Jimmy and have got it seen to by them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh the usual..a husband, children, that sort of thing.\u201d Peggy said airily.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd is there anything wrong with wanting those sort of things?\u201d Joe now asked rather tersely and Peggy raised her eyebrows,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, of course not, and it isn\u2019t wrong to have them either, it\u2019s just that there should be more to life than rearing children \u2026think of the women who just have children year after year, worn down by the drudgery of caring for them, for their husbands, for their homes. They should have the right to a career, like men do, to carve out a name for themselves\u2026\u201d Peggy hauled in a deep breath and half closed her eyes, she was a Joan of Arc of her time, seeing a vision for the future, trampling on the hopes of so many who lacked the desire to share it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo – do you think Mary Ann or Hester or Olivia fit into this pattern of drudgery?\u201d Joe now asked and heard Mary Ann\u2019s drawing in her breath as though surprised at his saying such a thing \u201cDo you think Mary Ann lacks intelligence because she settled for a home, and children, and a husband instead of staying the local town teacher, single and unloved?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe\u201d Mary Ann whispered, and put a hand on his arm as though to halt the words he had been too hesitant to say to her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy saw the challenge and accepted it, raising her face defiantly she said quietly \u201cNo, I don\u2019t, but – that\u2019s her choice, and now she has the chance to speak up for herself, and for others, who want wider choices for their children.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt seems to me that you did well enough, Peggy, you got to college, and you have a Doctorate too\u2026 so why get so involved in a cause that is going to create so many problems? Why can\u2019t you just leave things as they are?\u201d Joe said, his face flushing and Daniel looked up and wondered why his father was so angry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause your little girl deserves the right to vote, she deserves all the things that her brother has so easily because he\u2019s a boy.\u201d Peggy responded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what about the boys born to Indian or Chinese families here in America? What rights do they have? Let me tell you, Peggy, they have none\u2026my daughter has more rights then they have.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann sighed and stood up, she excused herself again and carried Constance out of the room and settled her down on the settee, wrapping a blanket around her and securing it so the child would not fall should she turn over.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After some moments she returned to the kitchen to find Joe had gone, taking his son with him. Peggy was sitting at the table turning the cup round and round between her fingers, she looked up at the other woman and shrugged \u201cSo? Are you still going to make that speech on Saturday?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann sat down opposite her and poured out more coffee into their cups, she shook her head \u201cI don\u2019t know, Peggy. I don\u2019t really know what to do for the best now\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At one time Joe would have taken himself off to speak to his father about any problem he had, but his loyalty to Mary Ann prevented him from doing so in this instance. Instead he took Daniel into the stables and together they spent time with the horses. Karim, Kami\u2019s colt, was a handsome beast now, and he placed Daniel on his back and walked him round and round the corral.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It did Joe\u2019s heart good to see his son sitting so straight in the saddle, a natural rider, with the same agility as his father, Joe, in his body. He was a handsome child, with his unruly mop of hair and hazel eyes, but he had Mary Ann\u2019s smile and way of looking that made Joe feel so proud of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, are you angry with Mommy?\u201d Daniel asked as Joe helped him down from the saddle, one armed as he was, it was a rather clumsy effort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned, and squatted down to be at eye level with the boy \u201cNo, just angry with myself really, sometimes things can be said that shouldn\u2019t be\u2026\u201d he ruffled the boy\u2019s hair, just like Ben and Adam had done to him when he was that age, \u201cand sometimes things should be said – a word at the right time, is oh so good.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled, it was a proverb that Ben had spouted at times, how did it go? \u201cA word at the right time is oh so good, like apples of silver in carvings of gold\u201d. and wasn\u2019t there another about never going to sleep before making peace between one another otherwise giving place to the devil? He sighed and smiled, if Mary Ann wanted to make that speech, then so be it\u2026he would be there at the meeting and give her his support, whether he agreed with what she said or not. He loved her, and if this was the only way to show it now, then let it be so.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia had given Luke\u2019s words a considerable amount of thought and whether or not she had agreed with what he said, she decided she would discuss it with Adam before she did anything else.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia had slept through the night and woken with smiles. A day with her Uncle and Aunt, with the twins, and on the Double D, and thinking nothing but happy thoughts she had stepped into her day. Nathaniel had determined to climb the tree but he hadn\u2019t yet found one that he could manage beyond the first limb from which he had hung rather like a sloth! Not that he knew what sloth was but had Adam been there that would certainly have been the creature the boy reminded him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Johnny Tall Bear had watched the children for a while before he had walked his horse into the yard. Sofia, recognising him, ran up to him with a smile \u201cHello, have you come to see Mommy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tall Bear inclined his head gravely and Sofia turned and ran into the house calling for Olivia to come and see \u2018\u201dher friend was here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both women rushed from the house to see exactly which friend Sofia would mean and when they saw Tall Bear, Marcy immediately went back into the house to prepare some food for him. Olivia approached and placed a hand upon the horse\u2019s neck<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt seems to me, Tall Bear, that your animal needs some food in its stomach before it makes home journey home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded, grateful for the way she had approached the subject of food, and without a word he slipped from the saddle and together they walked the horse to the stall where it was led to a oats in a manger, clean water in a trough, and hay from a net hanging from the wall by a nail.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome into the house and tell me what you are doing here, Tall Bear.\u201d she said now and turned, \u201cThere is nothing – serious – I mean – nothing wrong is there?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy people starve, we are on the reservation with other tribes – Utes, Shoshone, Kiowa \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cKiowa? But they\u2019re plains Indians aren\u2019t they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He inclined his head, Indians from different parts of the country, different customs and different attitudes, it had all led to disharmony and that had in turn led to recriminations and reprimands from their white \u2018Guardians\u2019.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI came to see the woman who seeks out the dead\u2026we heard that she had come and the shaman said she had to be told what really happened.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh -\u201d Olivia nodded \u201cAnd have you seen her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI saw her. I spoke. She knows.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked at him. He had changed over the years since she had first known him. She could remember when he was in the prime of his life, handsome, virile, strong..and he wore the best buckskins,and carried the best weapons, now he was haggard and worn, grey hair was scattered in the long black locks, and his clothing was ragged and poor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou rode a long way to tell her.\u201d she said quietly and led him into the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Marcy came and smiled at him, chattered to him about nothing except having seen him before, and then placed a bowl of food in front of him, a cup of coffee with the pot beside it. Tall Bear said nothing but sat down and began to eat, tearing into the bread, ladling in the food, leaving them the impression that he hadn\u2019t eaten so well in days..which was, in fact, the truth.<\/p>\n

……………………..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They would be home soon, and Reuben\u2019s heart sunk a little as he realised how close to the ranch he was and that soon another adventure would be over. Tomorrow the day would start and it would be going back to school. He sighed and glanced over at Adam who seemed to be deep in thought, his brow furrowed and his eyes hooded as though behind them too much was going on that he couldn\u2019t reveal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned his head immediately and nodded over to the boy, smiled and raised an eyebrow \u201cYes, son?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat bear \u2026\u201d he paused and saw Adam\u2019s face grow wary, the eyes narrowed, \u201cWell, I was thinking that I didn\u2019t see no sign of her being around our camp\u2026nothing at all\u2026not even a little paw print from the cubs. Does that mean I wasn\u2019t looking out carefully enough?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grinned and shook his head \u201cWell, you and me both, Reuben, I saw no sign of her being around either. To be honest, \u201c and his voice took on a less light tone, \u201cit\u2019s unusual for bears to come down so far this time of year. We would have picked up plenty of sign had we strayed into bear territory, but there was nothing \u2026\u201d he frowned now and rubbed his chin \u201cIt seems to me that she must have come down this far during the winter to hibernate, have her cubs and establish her own territory. If she is trying to establish fresh territory it means that they are getting overcrowded where she came from \u2026 she wanted her own space\u2026and where she has gone others will follow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs that bad?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is for us, it brings them too close to where we have our cattle, and once a bear starts raiding our herds, well, it\u2019s easy meat for them \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat will you do, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have a talk about it with Hoss, he may have some ideas on how to get old Mother bear and her cubs back to her own territory.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They lapsed into silence for a while, until Reuben sighed and made some comment about having to go to school in the morning. \u201cI bet Jimmy\u2019s in his new place now.\u201d he said, and frowned \u201cAnd Davy will be complaining that nothing happens and he had a boring weekend.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded and smiled, and slipped into thoughts of his own before looking at his son who was trying not to look too dejected at the prospect of school.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReuben, has Sofia ever mentioned anything to you about what happened to her when she went to Bodie?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh you mean that time – that time when it was blizzarding and we got lost.\u201d Reuben said and bit down on his bottom lip in order to suppress a shiver that went down his back and into his stomach \u201cPa, I didn\u2019t mean to lose her\u2026I did \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not asking you about that, son. I know you did well, very well and I don\u2019t think many boys your age would have done half as well to be honest.\u201d Adam paused and hoped he hadn\u2019t piled on the commendation too thickly, \u201cNo, I was thinking more of how Sofia feels now about the women\u2026you know\u2026 the old woman and her daughter.\u201d he cleared his throat, \u201cI was wondering because of how she got so upset about being called Alice.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Reuben frowned and nodded, he looked very much as though he took it as a personal insult himself, \u201cShe didn\u2019t like the old woman, she says she was like a witch, the one that wanted to eat Hansel and Gretel in the gingerbread house.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what about Katherine?\u201d Adam asked quietly, \u201cThe younger woman?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh she likes Katherine. She says that she was like the White Queen in a story, where she only wants things to be pretty all the time. I think she made that up though\u2026.\u201d Reuben grinned \u201cBut she didn\u2019t like it when they called her Alice and then the story upsets her, but it was only because they wouldn\u2019t believe she was Sofia and had brothers and lived on the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo, she doesn\u2019t have nightmares about Katherine?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, only about that story, she keeps dreaming about falling down a hole.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo she does talk to you about it, even now?\u201d Adam frowned, his dark eyes thoughtful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot much now. Only when she has a bad dream.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded and said nothing more. He began to whistle a tune beneath his breath, a song that the men would sing on board ship when they had had their tot of rum and the ship was in calm waters.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSoon be home, Pa.\u201d Reuben said and without realising it there was a slight tremor of excitement in the words, \u201cWait til I tell Davy about that bear\u2026and those bear cubs\u2026they were real cute, though, weren\u2019t they, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam smiled and nodded, \u201cWe\u2019ll go again another weekend soon, son.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

That was all that Reuben wanted to hear, and his grin was so wide that it nearly did stretch from ear to ear.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clemmie Hawkins reached up to straighten the lapels on the jacket her lodger was wearing, and then stepped back to survey her handiwork, she nodded with a pleased expression on her face<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, my duck, you look good enough to eat even if I do say so myself.\u201d she smiled and clasped her hands together almost as though she had been clapping in applause.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Edward Evans put a nervous hand to his tie and then with a twitch loosened it just a little bit. \u201cThanks, Clemmie.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing to thank me for, duckie, any woman with half a brain would be, should be, delighted to ask you round to spend some time with them, \u2018specially as you \u2018ave been \u2018elping \u2018er move into \u2018er new place.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMrs Carstairs is a fine woman, and she works hard to keep her son well cared for.\u201d Edward said quietly as though trying to convince her that this evenings appointment was all above board and there was nothing in it for Clemmie to be \u2018sharing\u2019 with any of her friends.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo doubt, luvvie, and I\u2019m more than glad that she realises what she owes you. Now, just you enjoy yourself now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She gave him a slight push towards the door, and smiled as he hesitated for a moment, and then turned to her \u201cYou don\u2019t think it\u2019s too soon\u2026I mean\u2026after Beatrice?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know what your talking about, me duck, how long is too long?\u201d Clemmie frowned, \u201cSeems to me that your life with Beatrice wasn\u2019t – well – it wasn\u2019t real, was it? It was like as if you were sleep walking through some one else\u2019s life, wasn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked at her for a moment with an expression of surprise on his face, then smiled gently, leaned forward and kissed her on the forehead \u201cMrs Hawkins, you have a very perceptive way of looking at things. I believe you\u2019re right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He picked up his hat and then once again paused, \u201cI loved Beatrice, through all our life together I was never once unfaithful, nor would I have thought to be\u2026she was my world. But her world was of music, the concert circuit, fame, adulation, demands on time, constant demands on her time\u2026.I sometimes felt as though I were sinking beneath all the demands, the recitals, the soiree\u2019s. It was only when I came here to take up this teaching position that I felt as though I had come alive, the real me, who I really was, suddenly woke up. When she died it was the most natural thing in the world to come back here, to come home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Teddy\u201d for that was her name for him, not Edward, or Mr Evans, but Teddy, she touched his cheek gently with her hand and smiled, \u201cYou just go and enjoy yourself now, just be yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Edward Evans nodded and then carefully placed his hat on his head and stepped outside the house. He paused on the doorstep and looked around him, up at the purpling sky, at the stars that were just beginning to peek through the crush velvet of the night. The moon was bright and luminous, he heaved in a deep breath and stepped forward with a lighter heart, having spoken to Clemmie about his feelings for Beatrice had been like closing the door to the past. He felt, really felt, like a new man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In their new apartment the Carstairs were trying to calm their own nerves. Jimmy checked to make sure his hair was parted smartly in the middle and his boots polished, Mrs Carstairs was fussing around the oven, one she wasn\u2019t too familiar with but hoped would cook the meal as well as the \u2018other one\u2019 had done while at the same time making sure the table setting was laid out smartly. If she thought too much about Mr Edwards\u2019 and his previous life with the high and mighty, rich and noble, she felt she would faint so kept reminding herself that he was only Jimmy\u2019s school teacher, nothing else. Just the school teacher\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The knock on the door made her jump and the pie in her hands nearly landed on the floor, nearly, but, thankfully, not quite.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 40<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By the time Olivia arrived home the sky was darkening and Nathaniel was asleep, his cheek resting upon his arms and looking so enchantingly adorable that his mother had to kiss his cheek as she carefully lifted him from the vehicle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia bounced ahead, \u201cIs Daddy home yet? Is Reuben?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHush, you\u2019ll wake Nathaniel.\u201d Olivia whispered placing a finger, with difficulty upon her lips as she carefully made her way from the buggy to the house, following behind her daughter at a slow pace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam opened the door with a smile on his face and caught the little girl as she sprung up into his arms. \u201cI knew you would be here, Daddy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you were right too\u2026\u201d he laughed and hugged her close, then looked over her head at Olivia, shared a smile before he leaned down to kiss his wife, glanced down at the sleeping child and then put Sofia down \u201cHere, let me take him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was able to take the sleeping child into his arms and holding him close against him walked over to the stairs, taking them carefully one by one. Olivia could hear the bedroom door open and his footsteps on the floor boards as she removed her outer jacket and set it to one side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben ran in now and flung his arms around his mother, nearly knocking his sister over in the process \u201cMa, Ma, guess what I did, I nearly got eaten by a bear\u2026and it had two cubs.\u201d ignoring the way his mother\u2019s face paled he turned to Sofia, \u201cYou would have really liked those cubs, Sofia, they were really small and fluffy, you would have wanted them as pets to bring home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWere they really tiny little bears?\u201d Sofia gasped with round eyes and a flush to her face, \u201cReally tiny and fluffy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey came right up to me and were waving their little paws like this..\u201d he demonstrated quite admirably making Sofia gasp and feel quite envious \u201cand they wanted me to play with them and pick them up, they came right up to me.\u201d he turned again to Olivia \u201cThey did, Ma, they came right up to where I was standing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wish you had brought them home. We could have played with them\u2026were they really like toy bears?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYep. They had little beady eyes too.\u201d Reuben widened his eyes and rolled them making Sofia laugh as he did so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReuben, what\u2019s this about a bear \u2026\u201d Olivia stopped as Adam came down the stairs with a slight smile on his face, \u201dAdam, Reuben says he was nearly eaten by a bear!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, not quite.\u201d Adam chuckled and gave his son a reproving look for worrying his mother so much, \u201cJust that mother bear didn\u2019t want such a puny little boy playing with her cubs \u2026 \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw Pa,\u201d Reuben frowned and his mouth drooped \u201cI ain\u2019t puny\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn comparison to the size of that mother bear, son, you were\u2026to be honest, so was I.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia relaxed, and now that the tension was gone she pointed to the stairs \u201cBed, now, both of you. School in the morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sighs, and groans, but they both turned towards the stairs, and Sofia hugged Adam again and whispered rubbish into his ears just to let him know she loved him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam approached his wife, and took her hand in his, smiled at her \u201cI\u2019ll go see to the horse \u2026we\u2019ll talk when I get back in.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded, squeezed his fingers gently within his own, and followed her children to their rooms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Cheng Ho Lee had prepared a light supper for them before he had retired to his bed. A small but welcome fire burned in the hearth, sending the smell of wood smoke into the room. The clock ticked away the minutes with the monotony that no one took any notice of until suddenly they realised time was running out on them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The lamp light was soft and glowed like beacons in the room, softening the harsher corners as shadows were created to swallow them up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia loved this room, and waited for Adam to join her with an almost sleepy peacefulness stealing up on her. Her children were sleeping safely in their beds, her husband was nearby and she was home, she half closed her eyes and released a sigh.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her husbands lips upon hers caught her by surprise, but then she laughed, her lips moving beneath his, and she closed her eyes again. Then he was sitting by her side, one arm across her shoulders and his other hand holding fast to hers, holding it captive as his fingers curled around her own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s good to be home,\u201d she murmured, and smiled up at him \u201cIt was lovely being at the Double D but being away from home always makes one appreciate it more when one returns.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou had your comfortable bed, and I slept on rocks\u2026.I still bear their imprint on my hide.\u201d he sighed and she could feel his smile against her hair, his breath warm as it drifted past her cheek.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTell me about the bear\u2026and your adventures.\u201d she said and nestled in closer to him, feeling the warmth of his body and sensing the warmth of her own trickling through her like a gentle fire in her veins. She loved being close to him, the feelings it aroused in her, the desire and passion being with him could unlock. As she listened to him talking, much like a story being read to Sofia, she knew that there was little point in worrying about anything really, not with him by her side, not with Adam Cartwright being her soul mate, her protector, lover, oh just everything one could ever wish a husband to be.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She realised he had finished telling her the story and was waiting for her to speak, but she had been so full of her own thoughts and feelings that the words had passed her by, only the sound of his voice had been a caress to her senses, lulling her into a cocoon of almost sensual longing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned to him and smiled, kissed him and leaned her head against his shoulder, his arm held her closer and she heard, felt, his own desires released in a soft sigh so that she kissed him again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His hand cupped her face, caressed her cheek, kissed her throat, her lips and she heard him whisper \u201cI missed you, Mrs Cartwright.\u201d as he kissed her again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Later they ate the supper that had been set out on the low table for them, and drank some wine. The fire was dying down to its last embers now but the room was warm, and they themselves were still feeling the heat of their togetherness earlier to worry about a fire now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, Luke came up with a suggestion that I want to discuss with you.\u201d she said and smiled over the rim of the glass, before she lowered her face in order to drink a little more, \u201cIt\u2019s about Sofia.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, and I wanted to mention something to you that Reuben told me as well.\u201d he picked up some of the food and with a smile held it towards her, and when she opened her mouth he laughed as her lips closed upon it, he picked up another piece and ate it himself. \u201cIt seems that Sofia isn\u2019t afraid of Katherine, doesn\u2019t worry about her at all, she puts her into the category of being the good fairy as opposed to the wicked witch that she was afraid of, that being, of course, Rosemarie. I suppose it is natural really for a child like Sofia to romanticise the two of them..one good and one evil.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, and I remembered how she always spoke of Katherine in a fond way, calling her Aunty Katherine, and how she and Aunty Katherine did this, or that, and – and I remember that I felt jealous of her, Katherine I mean. All that affection from my daughter being given to a woman who had stolen her from me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cExcept that she didn\u2019t, did she? She didn\u2019t steal Sofia from us, she did her best to save her, protect her\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia started back, and her eyes widened as though in horror as she listened to him, and quite involuntarily she cried \u201cWhile trying to convince our daughter that she was someone else, that we never existed, that she was Alice\u2026\u201d Olivia paused and heaved in a deep breath, placed a hand on her chest as though to still the beating of her heart and blinked rapidly, whether she had tears in her eyes Adam was unable to see, she glanced up at him, \u201cI’m sorry, Adam, I meant to be calm and rational, and not sound so bitter and – jealous.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He said nothing, but dropped a kiss upon her nose, looked intently into her eyes to make sure she was calm again. He picked up his wine glass and turned his gaze upon that for a while \u201cWhat did Luke say, I should imagine he had some sound advice after all, he knew her when he was in the army and served under Major Royale.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded and told him of her discussion with Luke, \u201cI didn\u2019t agree with him at first but then I got to thinking that he was right really, by being too protective we\u2019re really feeding her fears arnt\u2019 we? We don\u2019t even know what she is fearful of, because we\u2019ve never spoken to her about them, just given her the musical box to calm her at night.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t say anything to that for a while. He chewed on the food and swallowed, drank more wine. Ben had never let him touch the musical box until Inger came into their lives. On the journey until that time they had experienced some terrible things, seen horrific sights that had given him nightmares of gigantic proportions but he had never been given a musical box to soften the minutes of terror. Not until Inger came \u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He blinked, swallowed and looked at his wife. She too had experienced horrors, and Luke was right, there had been no counselling, no kindly doctor to hold their hands and pat them on the heads and wipe their tears. He poured more wine into her glass, and smiled, \u201cHe\u2019s right, and I don\u2019t disagree with him one bit. We need to talk to Sofia about this, bring it out into the open and scare away the shadows, if she has any.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia relaxed back into the cushions, and half closed her eyes, through them she watched him as he drank the wine, the fall of his dark hair over his brow, his unbuttoned shirt revealing his chest, his half hooded eyes now turned towards her while the curve of his mouth turned into a smile and the dimples formed in his cheeks. She emptied her glass and set it down on the low table, she thought for a moment of Sofia, and how relaxed and content she had been over the weekend. She raised a hand and trailed her fingers down his arm, until they came to rest upon his hand and when he turned towards her and gathered her back into his arms again she let the worries drift into the air like – wood smoke.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the room that had been allocated to her, Peggy sat at the bureau busily writing her letter to Maurice. Her report to the Smithsonian had been finished a few moments ago. She had scanned through it time and again to make sure she had the facts correct and had then sealed it into an envelope to take into town the following day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now as she began to write this next letter she found her thoughts wandering, not to the adventures of the day, but more towards the young man who had threatened to shoot her if she appeared on Greigson territory again. Hoss had informed her that the ranch was now known as the Box G, but most people who had been in the area for any length of time still referred to it as the Dayton place, which, of course, she already knew.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel Greigson, what an arrogant man he was to sit there in the saddle and threaten to shoot her if she rode onto the Box G again. What right did he have to treat her like that? She had been born there, she had a right to be there, to see the places she loved and treasured for the memories they held for her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She put down her pen and walked to the window and looked out at the dark sky, saw the clouds drifting past the face of the moon, stars blinking and twinkling. She could remember Laura teaching her to sing \u201cTwinkle, twinkle little star, how I wonder what you are\u2026\u201d and how she had stood in front of her father singing it and the great beam of a smile that had passed over his face, the gleam in his eyes as he had leaned down and picked her up, told her she had sung that real pretty and how, after he had set her down and told her to go and play, he had said to Laura \u201cDon\u2019t teach her rubbish like that again, I don\u2019t want my Peggy growing up into any cissy-girl.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It hadn\u2019t mattered then, in a way she had felt proud of her father and of herself, she thought it was a compliment. Her daddy wanted her to be special, not just \u2019any cissy-girl\u2019. And he liked her in her dungarees and shirt, scowled if she appeared in a dress so that she had avoided wearing them rather than see that dark look on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It struck her then that although her father had loved her, and she had no doubt of that love at all, he had also been ashamed of her. Ashamed of her for being a girl and not the boy he had wanted. He was ashamed because she was a girl who could grow to be just like his wife, whom he detested with every fibre of his being.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The moon slid out from the clouds and she caught a movement in the yard, looked down and saw Ben Cartwright walking slowly to the corral. She watched as he stopped , leaned upon it and placed one foot on the lower rung, then raised his pipe to his mouth. She could see the smoke he puffed into the night air and she wondered what he was thinking, whether or not he had been a friend to her father for he had never mentioned Frank, just brief references should she have raised the subject of him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed and returned to the bureau, glanced down at her letter and pushed it aside. What did it matter? In the whole scheme of things what did anything matter? After a few years big issues were forgotten, ignored, pushed aside and new ideas and causes rose in their stead. Everyone ended up as ash eventually. Stands Alone was dead and gone, what did he care about any of his descendants now who could be starving on some reservation eking out some meagre existence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sat down on the side of the bed and put her face into her hands. She was miserable, she was alone and miserable. As she listened now to the night sounds, heard the tick of the clock, the soft thud of a door closing, she wondered just who it was Abel Greigson had taken to the dance, and whether either of them had enjoyed it. In her heart of hearts she hoped they had not.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright closed the door behind him and walked to his chair by the great hearth, he eased his bones into it and then puffed a few smoke rings into the air. He had been thinking of how he had felt that day when he had seen the ranch burning, how he had felt despair and rage against the loss, against the wretched man who had caused it. Now here he was in a room as close to a replica of the original as they could have got it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He half closed his eyes and thought over the events of the day, of the children that had added laughter and chatter to what had become a silent house until Hannah had been born. He gathered up his tobacco pouch and added a little more to the bowl, puffed a little as he tamped it down. So many changes and how many times had he considered them over the years?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His thoughts slipped to the girl who was their visitor\u2026for no one had changed so much, in his view, than Peggy Dayton. Or had she changed really? He remembered when she was born, how Frank Dayton had swaggered into the Sazarac and ordered drinks all round, he had a daughter, better though had it been a boy. But they had laughed and congratulated him for he had been happy then, proud of his baby despite the disappointment of its gender.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He could recall seeing him with the child, always a beaming smile on his face when he was with her, and Peggy had been a sweet natured child, with a stubborn streak in her and a mulish look on her face if things didn\u2019t go her way. He remembered one time when he had thought \u2019She is just like her father\u2026\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He puffed a cloud of smoke that hovered over his head for some seconds before it faded away\u2026.no doubt about it, Peggy had grown up to be just like Frank Dayton, with a dash of Laura. No wonder the poor girl was so angry all the time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The faithful old time keeper chimed the hour and Ben sighed, leaned forward to tap out the dead ash from his pipe and set it on the rack with the others. There had been that time when Joe had been badly injured, and Peggy had made a visit then\u2026she had been a happy young girl just blossoming into womanhood. Happy, laughing, teasing Joe, and getting along so well with Barbara. He sighed, something had happened to change her, or, to bring out the worse elements in her. The happy teasing girl had gone, and this angry changeling had taken her place.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben rose to his feet and stretched, shook his head, it was a shame when a person changes so much, almost like a loss, to be lamented over.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Chapter 41<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben was dismayed at the lack of interest in his weekends adventures. \u00a0 He had been used to his friends gathering around him, envious of his time with his Pa out in the wilderness and eager to hear the latest events, but that Monday morning, he found himself the victim of some newer and more interesting news.\u00a0 Even Tommy who was always an avid supporter and listener of his tales was vague and shook his head and said \u201cHeard it all before, Reuben\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

David Riley just said he didn\u2019t want to hear all about another boring camping adventure, he had heard them all before, and when Reuben said that he was almost eaten by a bear, David had actually laughed at him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWait until you hear Jimmy\u2019s news\u2026\u201d Tommy said with a nod of the head, a very emphatic nod at that..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s so important about Jimmy\u2019s news. I bet he wasn\u2019t nearly eaten by a bear, was he?\u201d Reuben said with an attempt of a swagger in his voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo,\u201d Davy admitted with a shrug of his thin shoulders, \u201cBut then you\u2019ve never had Mr Evans come to your house for supper, have \u00a0you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, we have.\u201dSofia replied as quick as a whippet, she had very fond memories of the time Mr Evans came and stayed with them at the Ponderosa, \u201cand he slept in the spare room, too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tommy sighed very heavily and shook his head as though to say, \u201cBrave attempt but not good enough.\u201d while Davy just tossed his head with the result his hair flopped over his face, and his grin showed too many teeth which made Sofia feel \u2018mad\u2019 inside with a longing to kick his shins.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rose Canaday came and stood beside her looking curiously at them all, for she was a country girl too now, and no longer included with town gossip.\u00a0 Annie Sales, followed by Betsy who was chewing on a toffee, came up and grabbed Sofia by the hand and led her away. \u00a0 \u00a0She could tell by the way her friend puffed out her cheeks that she was about to say or do something she would later regret.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

More children were piling into the yard ready for the new day to start. \u00a0 Mr Evans arrived and was greeted with a chorus of \u201cGood morning,Mr Evans.\u201d which quite startled him, he looked around and recognised certain faces, nodded, smiled rather anxiously, and then made his way to the school house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s going on?\u201d Rose demanded from the town girls, Annie and Betsy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr Evans helped Mrs Carstairs move into the apartment above Miss Ridley\u2019s store.\u201d Annie whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rose and Sofia exchanged looked, frowned, and shrugged, they knew that, and they also knew that Mrs Sales had promised to prepare them a meal to save Mrs Carstairs time\u2026so what was so important about that? \u00a0 Reuben was hearing much the same tale, proving yet again that the old saying about the Mayor sneezing and everyone else getting a cold was still true, in Virginia City, whatever a man or woman did, was breakfast time gossip the next day, if not sooner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr Evans had lunch and supper with us, and he stayed at the Ponderosa too..a whole night\u2026\u201d Sofia said yet again just in case they had not remembered or heard her say so earlier.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHush now, Sofia Cartwright, we know all about that\u2026\u201d Annie sighed, and shook her head as though her friend exasperated her at times. \u00a0\u201cMr Evans stayed on and had supper with Mrs Carstairs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Again Rose and Sofia looked at one another and then at the other two girls. \u00a0\u201cThat was nice, Jimmy would like that too.\u201d Rose said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Annie tossed her head and her ringlets, always corkscrew tight and bunched together with red ribbons, bounced upon her shoulders. \u00a0 She had the advantage over the other two girls who obviously had not been privy to the sharp tongues of their mothers who added far more to the story than was necessary, sprinkling the real facts with a good does of speculation and vinegar.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut she\u2019s a single lady and he\u2019s a single man\u2026\u201d Annie said and blinked sagely behind her glasses doing a good impersonation of an owl.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

That meant nothing to Rose nor to Sofia, they shrugged and looked over at the other children.\u00a0 Rose said she was going to skip rope with Abigail Gates, and ran off leaving Sofia with the Sales girls. \u00a0 Reuben was suffering just as much from his naivete as the girls, as Davy provided the details of what his mother\u2019s sharp tongued speculation had conjured up during breakfast that morning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Jimmy arrived, just before the bell tolled to prepare the children for the classes, he was surprised to find himself the centre of attention, of Davy throwing a possessive arm about him and Tommy bringing up the rear behind him and ushering him up the steps to the big door of the school. \u00a0 Reuben was left behind like so much flotsam as the surge of bodies propelled themselves up the steps, and for a long moment he stared up and around him like a lost soul.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia joined him and slipped her hand into his, she looked up at him and frowned, quizzical and puzzled \u201cWhy is it, Reuben?\u00a0 Why is everyone making so much fuss about Jimmy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben shook his head, he hadn\u2019t understood much of what Davy or Tommy was going on about, \u00a0Jimmy Carstairs was still just Jimmy Carstairs after all, nothing was going to change that! \u00a0 \u00a0 He, Sofia and Rose trudged their way up the steps into the building, and entered the big hall. \u00a0 Sofia glanced up at the beautiful stair case and suddenly realised she no longer felt that same enthrallment she had once done, she no longer saw herself the princess mounting the stairs to meet her Prince \u00a0Charming. \u00a0 \u00a0Somehow she felt she had lost something special, and with a puzzled feeling in her thoughts, she mounted the steps behind her brother.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale checked the books in her hand and with a sigh placed them into the box.\u00a0 They were too worn to be of use anymore, leaves were falling out like those that hung upon the boughs of a tree, the last to fall to the ground when winter came.\u00a0 The books would have to go, and it hurt her to part with them as they had been on those shelves for as long as she could remember.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was also worried about Miss Godfrey who had arrived at work that morning looking, well, not to put too fine a point on it, not quite herself.\u00a0 First thing Miss Tyndale had noticed was that Miss Godfrey no longer wore her hair in such a severe style, it was looser, prettier as it framed her face, instead of being scraped back into its severe top knot. \u00a0 Also she had discarded her glasses, telling Miss Tyndale that she really didn\u2019t need them as much as she had thought she would have done.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale thought that latter was something of a miracle, one either wore glasses because one needed them or not! \u00a0 But the woman was still a good worker, and very good with the customers, helpful and co-operative, and very sure to remind the noisier elements to be quiet as befits those attending the library.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But there was definitely something wrong, something different about her assistant and it piqued Miss Tyndale\u2019s interest as to what it was, because it seemed to her, obviously, something to do with that dance.\u00a0 Hadn\u2019t she said no good would come of it?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Halfway through the morning, just as Miss Tyndale had sealed up the box of old books to be taken away, a \u00a0young man arrived looking rather anxiously around him until he recognised Miss Godfrey. \u00a0 A tall,nice looking young man with a studious air and glasses.\u00a0 She could remember seeing him going in and out of Roy Coffee\u2019s house so had assumed, rightly, that he was living with the ex-sheriff.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan I be of assistance, young man?\u201d she asked, bustling up to him with an official looking air about herself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have a message for Miss -\u201d the young man paused and looked over Miss Tyndale\u2019s shoulder and smiled as Miss Godfrey appeared, \u201cAh, there you are\u2026\u201d he said and nodded at Miss Tyndale, dismissing her by looking directly at Elizabeth \u201cMr Woods will see you tomorrow morning if that would be convenient.\u00a0 About 11 o\u2019clock.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank \u00a0you, Mr Tombs.\u201d \u00a0Miss Godfrey looked at Miss Tyndale \u201cWould it be alright if I took that time off, Miss Tyndale, I will work through my lunch hour instead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale fidgeted with her brooch, and fussed over her collar before she nodded, \u201cVery well, but make sure it is only the hour.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She watched the young man and Elizabeth as they agreed the time and then shook hands, as though a deal was done. \u00a0 As Grant turned to go she watched him all the way to the front door, then turned to her assistant, \u201cMr Woods? \u00a0 Is that Mr Hiram Woods?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I have to see him to discuss some things that are very important to – to events in my past.\u201d Elizabeth replied and Miss Tyndale was quite sharp enough to notice the blush on her cheeks and the stammer in \u00a0her voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A mystery. \u00a0 She drew in her breath and nodded, \u201cI see.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She saw nothing at all but stated the two words with the utmost conviction that she would find out and \u2019see\u2019 in due course. \u00a0 Miss Godfrey merely smiled, a rather shy reticent smile to be sure, but she didn\u2019t look in the least bit concerned nor perplexed.\u00a0 Busy little Miss Tyndale watched her assistant as she returned to her work, to her way of thinking a mystery indicated that lies had been told along the way \u2026 and Miss Tyndale had been raised to believe that there was no good lie, for a lie had been the cause of the first sin, and the first sin had led to ruination for all mankind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was wondering if she had been too hasty in hiring Miss Godfrey as her assistant, and now had to think of some way in which the woman could be dismissed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul Martin checked over Joe Cartwrights arm very thoroughly, ignoring the groans and the sighs for he was well used to the vocal chorus that would come from this young man whenever he had cause to come into contact with him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSit still, will you, young man!\u201d He snapped, \u201cYou\u2019re worse now that you were when you were an infant.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t remember ever being an infant,\u201d Joe lamented, and grimaced as the old Doctor coaxed the injured arm into yet another position.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll do fine.\u201d Paul said letting Joe\u2019s arm drop from his fingers, \u201cIt isn\u2019t broken, just badly sprained.\u00a0 Sometimes they feel more painful than an actual break.\u00a0 You have my sympathies.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He scribbled out a prescription and handed it over, \u201cWear the sling if it helps, don\u2019t overuse the arm, you won\u2019t be able to for a while, it will be too painful. \u00a0 But when you can persist at it, don\u2019t pamper yourself too much or it will not get any strength back into it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe nodded and stood up, slipped his arm into the sling and took the prescription. Paul frowned \u201cI suppose Hop Sing has been giving you something to put on it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYep, of course.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul nodded, \u201cWell, keep using it, it\u2019ll no doubt do you more good than anything I can give you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grinned and was about to pick up his hat when the door opened and Bridie stepped inside, smiled at him and then turned to her husband, \u00a0\u201cAre \u00a0you ready to come now, old man?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReady and willing, my dear.\u201d came the reply and Paul winked over to Joe, \u201cALways agree, it saves time and pain in the long run.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie shook her head and smiled, a smile as broad as ever and eyes twinkling with love and pleasure at seeing the man she loved even if it was only a few hours since she saw him over the breakfast table that morning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn the wars again, Joe?\u201d she said nodding over at his arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSlightly, Bridie, nothing serious.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd how\u2019s Mary Ann?\u00a0 And the children?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll well.\u201d Joe replied feeling a sinking pit in his stomach as he remembered how cool they had been towards each other recently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie nodded, and her smile faded a little as she put her head to one side to observe him a little more closely, \u201cYou worried about that Meeting she and Peggy \u00a0Dayton are involved in on Saturday?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I am.\u201d Joe replied, and he pursed his lips and shrugged, twisted his hat round and round between his fingers, \u201cI am, Bridie.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo you should be,\u201d Paul grunted and reached for his hat, \u201cIt\u2019ll stir up a hornets nest.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie shook her head at him, as though warning him to be silent before she turned back to Joe. \u00a0\u201cBest be prepared for trouble, Joe. \u00a0 People talk, and I\u2019ve not heard anything positive being said about this Meeting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMary Ann believes it to be a fair and honest cause, Bridie. \u00a0 She wants the best for women everywhere, same as Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I understand Lucy Garston has got herself entangled with it as well.\u00a0 Not that I\u2019m surprised by that, she;s a pampered young woman with too much time on her hands, and not enough to do \u2026but she\u2019s also a prisoner of her mother\u2019s vile tongue and temper and her father\u2019s dithering and ineptitude.\u201d \u00a0Bridie patted the younger man on the arm, and shook her head, \u201cRight now I would say isn\u2019t the right time for this, women in the main aren\u2019t hungry for education, for advancement, for doing things that many assume only the wealthy can possess. \u00a0 Those that do .. Follow the course of wisdom and show patience.\u00a0 It\u2019s like farming, dear, one has to follow the seasons.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe frowned, looked at her thoughtfully and wondered if she had taken leave of her senses, but she seemed to know what she was talking about because she gave him a sicnere kindly smile before turning to Paul, \u201cI thought you were in a hurry, my dear, come along, or you\u2019ll be late.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both Paul and Joe promptly put hats to their heads and followed Bridie out of the surgery, the door was closed behind the good Doctor, and then they parted to go their separate ways.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe clambered aboard the wagon seat and leaned back to think over what Bridie had said, he wasn;t aware of Hoss\u2019 presence until the wagon lurched to the side and Hoss settled beside him, took the reins and released the brake.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou alright, you look a million miles away?\u201d Hoss said as the horses trundled forwards.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHuh, no, just wishing I were\u2026.\u201d Joe sighed and lowered his hat to cover his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 42<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Returning home after a few days absence meant that Olivia had a busy morning which kept her occupied and prevented her from thinking too much and too often about Miss Godfrey. \u00a0 \u00a0 Even with the help of Cheng Ho Lee there was still a heavy work load ahead of her plus having to accommodate the quilting session that afternoon, something she had completely forgotten about until Cheng Ho Lee mentioned it.\u00a0 That meant four adults and the children to be catered for which put her into a whirl of activity.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Occasionally Olivia did allow herself to think of her conversation with Adam and their decision for Sofia to meet the Assistant Librarian as soon as possible. \u00a0 But each time the thought of it \u00a0trickled into her head she dismissed it blithely with the excuse that she was far too busy to go anywhere \u2018today\u2019, and then she breathed a sigh of relief and got on with the task she was facing at that precise moment in time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel kept running up asking her for the cat, and looking dismayed when being told the cat was at Aunt Marcy\u2019s which led to various questions as to why they didn\u2019t have a cat at home, could he have a cat, why could he not have a cat and just as she was about to lose her patience with him he would change tack and ask when Hannah and Hope were coming to play, was Daniel coming too?\u00a0 And was Big David as well?\u00a0 He obviously dismissed his cousins Erik and Constance and placed them in the same category as the babies he had left behind, with the cat, at the Double D.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He became naughty, running around the furniture, knocking over an ornament which she was just able to catch in time before it hit the floor. \u00a0 He wanted to go out to play, he wanted to stay indoors and sit, he wanted this and then he wanted that until she ordered him to his room to sleep for a little while before his cousins came.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He went to his room but he didn\u2019t sleep.\u00a0 She could hear his footsteps as he ran round and round, \u00a0thud thud thud\u2026until in the end she had to go upstairs to see what he was doing, and found him hanging half way out of the window as he attempted to see just how good he was at climbing over the shingles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Thankfully Cheng Ho Lee prepared some lunch during which Nathaniel nodded off to sleep, his exertions proving too much even for him and to her relief he caused no more trouble as he slept through the hour.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann, with Daniel and Constance arrived first swiftly followed by Ann and David, then Hester with Erik and the girls. \u00a0 They all wanted to know if she had had a good relaxing time with Marcy, and how was Marcy, and how were the children?\u00a0 Such a babble of voices, shrill laughter, giggles, \u00a0children running here and there getting underfoot, Erik bawling because he had a new tooth coming through and Nathaniel getting excited again at seeing all the children and shrieking with the sheer delight at having company again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was much easier when they were all small, like Constance.\u201d Mary Ann sighed as she watched Daniel running out into the yard shrieking like a wild Indian with the other boys behind him, while Hannah and Hope sat close to Constance, playing with their dolls and wondering between themselves if Sofia would ever get a doll house of her very own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ezra came out of the stables and found a rickitty old chair which he placed in a strategic area of the yard so that he could keep an eye on the boys. \u00a0 He appointed himself as overseer of this wild band knowing how little boys could get into numerous scrapes and injure themselves by climbing into hay lofts and falling out of windows or down ladders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester rolled out the latest quilt which they surveyed with a critical eye before agreeing that it was coming along very nicely.\u00a0 Hannah was called along to join them, being given her own little squares to practise on, after all she would soon be going to school and was now old enough to learn how to sew a square for the quilt.\u00a0 She did it with better grace than Sofia ever had, being a biddable child she sat quietly by and sewed contentedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hope, ever gentle and sweet by nature, looked after baby Constance who was not too bothered about being looked after as she had been well fed before leaving home and only wanted to go to sleep.\u00a0 Erik had been given a cookie to test his new tooth on and was happy enough doing that\u2026so Hope, feeling redundant, went out to find Nathaniel and play with him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Talk led to how each of them had spent their weekend\u2026so they learned that Peggy had been disagreeable, which led to Olivia telling them about Johnny Tall Bear arriving at the Double D to tell them he had met Peggy, and Mary Ann added her information, which led Ann to ask her if they were still going to go ahead with the Meeting on Saturday.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann lowered her head, she sighed heavily, \u201cJoe doesn\u2019t want me to, and I feel so torn.\u00a0 I just don\u2019t know what to do for the best.\u201d \u00a0she looked at her three friends, women whom she loved and trusted, \u201cI made a promise to Peggy, and we are committed to holding that Meeting I suppose but my heart isn\u2019t in it anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave you written out your talk yet?\u201d Ann asked, \u00a0her voice containing just the slightest chill and she glanced at Hester who had nudged her with her elbow as though to warn her to temper her words and calm down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that\u2019s the trouble, Joe read it and thinks I was intimating that we – that\u2019s all of us – were oppressed women, hard done by and mere chattels.\u201d \u00a0 even as she said it she could feel the heat rising above her collar and she looked down at the quilt rather than see their expressions.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The other three women looked at one another, Ann bristled and pursed her lips into a tight little button of irritation, Hester shook her head and frowned and Olivia released a sigh, \u201cI think that is a bit strong, Mary Ann.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann nodded \u201cI have re-written it, but now I think it has gone the other way, a bit like some stupid woman \u00a0bleating about how unfair life was for us all, and how much better it would be if we could be equal to men.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ann sighed and shook her head, \u201cWe\u2019ll never be equal to men.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d Mary Ann immediately retorted back and then she laughed and shook her head, \u201cOh dear, I\u2019m sorry\u2026 I just can\u2019t seem to stop myself. I know we\u2019ll never be equal to men, but we should be treated -\u201d she paused at the mutinous look on Ann\u2019s face and the way Hester was biting her lip and Olivia was concentrating on the next square. \u00a0\u201cIt\u2019s alright, I\u2019ll not say another word about it.\u201d \u00a0she looked at Olivia \u201cWhat did Johnny Tall Bear have to say, Olivia, did he want to see Joe at all?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, all he wanted was food in his stomach and his horse cared for\u2026Luke gave him some decent clothing.\u00a0 Life on that reservation has become terribly hard.\u201d \u00a0she snapped off some thread and smoothed down her square, then picked up another piece of material \u201cHe said that the people are dying, there\u2019s barely a handful of them left now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps we should hold another meeting,\u201d Ann said bluntly, \u201cand get the people in town to rally round and help their Indian brothers, they did it once before, didn\u2019t they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSeveral times,\u201d Hester said, \u201cand the townsfolk were very generous but I rather think the money went into the Agents\u2019 pockets.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They lapsed into concentrated silence as they continued with their task, every so often Hester would turn to assist her daughter, before returning to her own work.\u00a0 Hope and Nathaniel came indoors and began to play quietly in the corner while outside the older children yelled and played with their faithful old watchdog dozing in his chair \u2019watching\u2019 them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere is Peggy today?\u201d Mary Ann asked and Hester shrugged and shook her head, looked at her cousin, Ann, who didn\u2019t know, and then at Hester who suggested that she may have gone into town.\u00a0 Mary Ann said nothing to that, only concentrated more seriously on her quilting.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel deQuille took his time reading through the notes that Peggy had penned down for him for his latest article about the Conquistadors.\u00a0 Her comments with regard to the Indians were noted, and underlined with red ink.\u00a0 He nodded and hemmed and hawed and then said he would get it printed up for her so that it would be in the next edition.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After that assignment had been completed Peggy strolled out to post her mail to the Smithsonian, a package containing notes, sketches and suggestions. \u00a0 She then posted another letter to Maurice and was quite surprised when Eddy handed her a letter, with a smile, \u201cAll the way from England, Miss Dayton.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She put it into her purse and smiled her thanks before she stepped back outside.\u00a0 She looked up and down C Street.\u00a0 She could hear the sound of children shouting and laughing and chattering and made her way over to the school building which she observed with some admiration. \u00a0 \u00a0When she had been old enough to go to school it had been one of the single roomed buildings built for the purpose, the one closest to her home and the Ponderosa.\u00a0 It had been stiflingly hot in summer and freezing in winter. \u00a0 She could still remember getting chilblains and wondering what had happened to her fingers and toes for them to hurt so much.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But her teacher had been a sweet natured young woman who had encouraged her to enjoy what she was learning. \u00a0 She had proven to be an adept student, intelligent and well behaved. She had loved being at school.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA nickel for your thoughts?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned quickly and smiled as Lucy Garston nudged her arm and smiled at her, her eyes twinkling \u201cWould you like to join me for some coffee and some cake\u2026Whitneys has a splendid selection.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Arm in arm they made their way to the Whitney Hotel and restaurant, giggling as they went and Peggy thought how they were behaving like two school girls who had skipped school lessons for the day.\u00a0 But they finally found their place in the restaurant and ordered their coffee and selected their cake, then sat back and observed each other<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, have you got everything organised for Saturday?\u201d Lucy asked, \u201cI\u2019ve a short talk – a discourse rather – which I thought I would deliver before we close.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave you got it on you now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy nodded and opened her purse, a rather large commodious one that surely belonged to her mother.\u00a0 She produced an envelope and extracted several sheets of paper which she handed to Peggy.\u00a0 She was an articulate young woman, held back by her parents and had never felt that she could ever achieve anything in her life while they were living.\u00a0 She had at times contemplated murder but being a well brought \u00a0up young lady and rather squeamish as well as having a crush on Nate Carney, she had not \u2019gone through with it.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled, gazing into the air and imagining herself delivering the most wonderful oratory at this first meeting, the first, she was convinced, of many. \u00a0 In her mind she was going to travel all over the States of America with the same evangelical zeal of a missionary to spread the word of emancipation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s very long.\u201d Peggy said quietly after a few minutes silence while she read through Lucy\u2019s closing comments \u201cI thought \u00a0you were going to just do a summary of the meeting?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI Haven\u2019t seen Mary Ann\u2019s talk yet\u2026and of course, the question and answer session you are conducting could be longer – or shorter – than we envisaged. I thought this would be the best length, which can be shortened if necessary.\u201d \u00a0she smiled primly, an art she had learned from her mother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded and slipped the pages back into the envelope \u201cI have a feeling that Mary Ann will not be giving her talk. \u00a0 She doesn\u2019t want to upset her husband\u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy nodded, and thought back to when she was younger and Joseph Cartwright had been single and he had been her very first \u2018crush\u2018. \u00a0 She had \u00a0been a schoolgirl at the time, \u00a0and had often told her girl friends that the sight of Little Joe Cartwright riding through town on that paint horse of his, gave her the vapours.\u00a0 There were others who agreed that they had felt just the same way.\u00a0 Now, when she looked back on that time, which was not so long ago really, she thought it was all rather silly. \u00a0 But at the same time she could understand Mary Ann\u2018s reluctance to upset Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think a lot of women may feel just the same way,\u201d she observed quietly, \u201cthis is all very new to them.\u00a0 Quite irrational I should think \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cRevolutionary.\u201d \u00a0Peggy replied and paused as the waiter placed a selection of cakes and all the coffee fixings on the table, she thanked him and then looked at Lucy, \u201cIf she doesn\u2018t do her talk, perhaps you could do it instead.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy clasped her hands together against her chest, her eyes widened and she blushed \u201cDo you think I could do it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDefinitely.\u201d \u00a0Peggy nodded, and then frowned as she thought of Mary Ann; she didn\u2018t like to think of her friend as a back slider but her lack of enthusiasm when they had been talking the previous day did prompt Peggy to consider taking drastic action.\u00a0 She looked at Lucy, and smiled, someone as eager and enthusiastic would sway an audience far more so than a rather anaemic house wife.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked at the cakes, then at Lucy \u201cLet\u2019s eat \u2026\u201d and very delicately selected a slice of frosted chocolate cake.<\/p>\n

………………..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben had spent the morning lessons in a morose mood. \u00a0 The fickleness of his friends was rare to him and he was sensitive enough to be hurt by their dismissive remarks.\u00a0 He walked slowly from the classroom with his head down and his lunch box under his arm, bumping into his class mates and not caring. \u00a0 Sofia met him at the bottom of the stairs and felt doom laden when she saw his down cast features.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re just silly, Reuben.\u201d she said matter of factly, although she would have liked any excuse to have kicked a few shins.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey weren\u2019t interested in anything I said, even if I had gone to the moon they would have ignored me.\u201d Reuben sighed heavily, and felt the weight of friendlessness heavily upon his shoulders.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They settled down on the step that was their usual lunch time space and he was about to launch into a tirade of \u2018poor \u00a0me\u2019 when he felt a hand on his shoulder and looking up saw Jimmy Carstairs grinning down at him. \u00a0 His initial thought was to ask him what he wanted, and to clear off, but Jimmy settled down beside them and actually produced a lunch box of his own. \u00a0 This was a \u2018seldom happens event\u2019 but he carefully unwrapped his sandwiches and smiled at Sofia, then at Reuben before leaning towards them in a conspiratorial manner<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened?\u00a0 Someone said you were attacked by a bear and nearly eaten.\u201d he whispered with his eyes keen and eager enough to convince both the children that he was sincerely interested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh that!\u201d \u00a0Reuben said with an airy shrug \u201cThat\u2019s nothing compared to having Mr Evans come to supper.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy frowned and looked at them doubtfully, Sofia blinked and noticed the same hurt in the boys eyes as she had seen in her brothers earlier, she leaned forward \u201cI had supper with an Indian, he\u2019s a friend of ours, his name is Tall Bear.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReally?\u201d Jimmy said and looked at Reuben \u201cSo it isn\u2019t true about the bear then?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it was\u2026\u201d Reuben said very sharply and then he smiled at Jimmy and told him all about what happened, with a few embellishments, just enough not to turn truth into a lie.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy sat there with round eyes, and the filling in his sandwich fell out into his lunch box with out him noticing he was so enthralled, he kept breathing exclamations like \u2019Gosh\u2019 and \u2019Wow\u2019 which made Reuben feel like a real hero.\u00a0 When he had finished speaking Jimmy sighed and shook his head,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wish I had a Pa like yours, he\u2019s really brave, isn\u2019t he?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia nodded \u201cHe\u2019s a Prince Charming too\u2026\u201d she tossed her head regally \u201cAnd he says I\u2019m his Princess.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy ignored her and looked at Reuben, he then turned to look over at where Davy and Tommy were sitting together with Philip and Annie Sales before huddling closer to Reuben, \u201cI don\u2019t know what all the excitement was about with that lot, going on about Mr Evans coming to supper.\u00a0 He helped us move into the new apartment, so Ma thought – well – the only way we could thank him was by giving him a meal.\u00a0 It was nothing that special.\u201d he shrugged his thin shoulders so high that they met his ears, \u201cActually it was boring. I had to behave all the time \u2026elbows off the table, don\u2019t talk with your mouth full, all that kind of stuff.\u00a0 Then they talked a lot, \u00a0and that was even more boring.\u00a0 Grown \u00a0ups talk a lot of boring rubbish at times.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben and Sofia nodded, even though they loved Adam and Olivia they had to admit there were times when conversation around the table could be boring even with them\u2026especially when there was kissing and holding hands involved too\u2026Reuben wrinkled his nose at the memories of some such and nodded again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Davy and Tommy sauntered over and settled down beside them, Sofia gave them both a hard cold glare but they ignored her and crowded in around Reuben \u201cWhat happened about the bear, Reuben?\u00a0 Did your Pa shoot it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNah, he would have done though, he got his gun out ready to kill it if it had charged us, but it only wanted the cubs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCubs?\u201d Annie Sales squeaked, \u201cReal little baby cubs?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah,\u201d Reuben nodded and smiled, \u201cthey were real cute, but I remembered what Pa said about not going to hold \u2018em, but they still wanted me to play with \u2018em and followed me into the camp and then Old Ma Bear came.\u00a0 She was – \u201c he threw out his arms and stretched them as far apart as he could \u201cshe was that big, she was huge and when she roared – pooooh, her breath was real stinky.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy didn\u2019t you run away?\u201d Davy said squaring h is shoulders \u201cI would have run, I wouldn\u2019t \u00a0have hung around waiting for any old bear come chasing me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNah, you can\u2019t outrun a bear.\u00a0 You have to stand still and if she can\u2019t smell you, then you\u2019re alright. Pa said we were alright just as we were, she couldn\u2019t smell us, see, because the wind wasn\u2019t in the right direction. Anyway, she only wanted her babies.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wish I had seen them.\u201d Tommy said and sighed, \u201cI wish I had a Pa like yours, Reuben, it must be exciting to be able to go out camping and seeing things\u2026what else did you do?\u00a0 Did \u00a0you go fishing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yeah, we went fishing and we went swimming\u2026.\u201d and on and on Reuben chattered to his audience, while Sofia got up and drifted off to play skipping rope with her friends.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Reuben chattered the sound of children\u2019s voices floated over the air, the chant of the girls skipping rose and fell\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDown the Mississippi<\/p>\n

Where the steamboats go,<\/p>\n

Some go fast.<\/p>\n

Some go slow.<\/p>\n

Down the Mississippi<\/p>\n

Where the steamboats go PUSH.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And then at the word PUSH another little girl enters the game while the first exited.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And then the bell tolled, and lessons had to recommence. Reuben fairly bounced up the steps, such a different boy to the one who had toiled despondently down them earlier<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam hauled the sack of grain from the store and off loaded it onto the wagon, \u00a0Then he stood for a moment to check off his list before re-entering the store for a box of canned goods. \u00a0 \u201cIs that all, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced again at his list and then nodded, \u201cThat\u2019s all, Mr Anderson.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He paid for the goods and then picked up the box of canned goods which he carried out to the wagon and placed with the other goods. \u00a0 He was about to clamber aboard when he saw Peggy leaving the Whitney Hotel with Lucy Garston. \u00a0 They were giggling like two school girls and he smiled at the thought that this was the first time he had seen Peggy laughing and happy since she had arrived in town or at the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It must have been Lucy who saw him first for she whispered something to Peggy and both looked over in his direction and waved, before walking off, still giggling and leaving him watching them wondering what they found to be so funny.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned to take up the reins when he almost collided with Nate who smiled, then nodded over in the direction of the two young women.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey seem happy enough at the moment.\u201d he smiled, his eyes half hooded as he observed them disappearing into Ridleys Ladies Emporium<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cImplying that they won\u2019t be happy for too long, huh?\u201d Adam murmured, looking at Nate with a thoughtful look in his eyes, \u201cAnticipating trouble on Saturday are you, Nate?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2018s trouble I could well do without to be honest, Adam. \u00a0 Folk in town are getting mighty het up about this Meeting. \u00a0 It isn\u2019t just the men folk either, quite a few women will be there who will want to tell them what to do with their ideas, they don\u2019t see it as any betterment to them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam grimaced and shrugged \u201cWell, maybe not, but if it gives them something to think about \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t go along with it, do you?\u00a0 All this talk about Voting and such?\u201d Nate grinned, and shook his head, \u201cWell, I guess with the wife you have at home, Adam, you don\u2019t need to worry about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I don\u2019t, not really.\u201d \u00a0he sighed and put his hand on the rail of the wagon seat to haul himself up, \u201cBut don\u2019t be too hard on those who do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate shrugged \u201cI didn\u2019t mean anything by it, I\u2019ve read enough to know that there is a growing interest in the matter, sort of like the first rumbles to an earthquake.\u201d he grinned now and pushed his hat to the back of his head, \u201cHopefully there will be enough sensible people about when the earthquake arrives to take note and do something about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded and smiled \u201cNow, that\u2019s a very practical attitude to take, Sheriff. \u00a0 Let\u2019s hope there\u2019s some showing that same kind of sense on Saturday evening.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs Joe\u2019s wife still going to be performing\u2026no\u2026wrong word\u2026sorry\u2026making a speech?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam pursed his lips into a familiar pout and shrugged \u201cThat I don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now Nate released a long sigh and shook his head \u201cI sure hope she isn\u2019t\u2026\u201d then with an nod of the head, he walked away from the wagon so that Adam could move on.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 43<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy left Lucy not long after Adam had seen them together. She had seen him take the wagon from where it had been left at the store and had hurried to catch up with him as the wagon was trundling down the main street., Deep in thought and wondering what to say to Joe about what Nate had just told him Adam was quite ignorant of Peggy being so close behind him and it was not until he had reached the outer environs of the town that he heard his name being hailed. He immediately turned to see Peggy driving the buggy towards him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI thought you might have waited, Adam.\u201d she scolded although she was smiling as she spoke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t know when you would be leaving.\u201d Adam reminded her and glanced at her flushed face and bright eyes \u201cYou looked to be on very friendly terms with Miss Garston.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Lucy and I are great friends. We think alike about a lot of things, and people.\u201d she said and glanced over her shoulder \u201cI guess we\u2019re blocking the trail some so I had best get on.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded and held the team back in order for her to pass him. She waved and laughed as she left him to \u2018eat her dust\u2019. But he waited awhile to let the dust settle,and thought about an 8 year old Peggy and wondered how she would have turned out had he and Laura married. Eventually he urged the team onwards, as he realised that he and Peggy had barely spoken in all the time she had been at the Ponderosa. He wondered, to himself, whether or not it had intentionally been avoiding her and if he had been, had there been any particular reason as to why.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was a pleasant afternoon now, and Peggy enjoyed the ride through the trees that would lead to the area where years ago her mother and Will Cartwright had sat together to talk and to discover that they loved each other. That was the day when they had ridden on to tell Adam and been prevented from saying anything due to the accident, to that fall, that fragile moment in time when Adam Cartwright\u2019s life had been suspended between life and death.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But Peggy was unknowing of all that, all she saw was a pleasant place to take the horse and buggy, to clamber down and allow the animal to graze while she sat on that rock, read her letter, which was crackling in her pocket to remind her of its presence, and enjoy the view.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was not a long letter and she read it slowly \u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDear Peggy,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Are you well? Are you finding life back where you always told me you belonged as satisfying as you had hoped?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I recently had a letter from the Smithsonian to ask how you were getting on with the discovery of those Conquistadors, and it prompted me to remind you that you are on a tight time schedule as we have plans of our own to execute.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I am organising the trip to Cairo even now, and Lord Faverhope and the Earl of Grantham are both agreeing to sponsor us. It will be the usual team, Peggy, people we have worked along with for some time now and whom we can trust.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy, I do miss you. Do come back soon. You know, don\u2019t you, of my hopes that your future will be with me, as my wife. I love you, Peggy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Always yours,<\/p>\n

Maurice \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She read it through just once more and then sat very still with her letter between her fingers resting in her lap. She stared at the blue sky, heard a bird singing as though from a great distance. It was the only sound of which she was aware, it seemed as though the whole world had stopped revolving and sound was muted, for apart from the song bird she heard nothing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t even hear footsteps approaching her as she sat so very still, as though engraved in marble with not even a breeze to create a ripple in her hair, her skirts \u2026.all she could see was blue sky, drifting back and forth. She closed her eyes and for a moment she was 8 years old once again, she could feel the drift of wind against her face as she swung back and forth on a creaking old swing, and all she heard was a child\u2019s voice saying \u201cOne, two, three -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She saw the boots first, planted firmly on the ground just inches from the hem of her skirt. She knew to whom they belonged straight away and looked up to see Adam looking down at her with a concerned look on his face and his dark eyes sombre and anxious.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou want to talk about it, Peggy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His voice was gentle and dark, and she could remember how he would talk to her mother in that same tone, and how it would calm Laura so that she would lose that strident near hysterical pitch to her own voice. She could remember the evenings listening to them talk, before he would leave the house, the soft thud of the door closing and then the sound of his horse\u2019s hooves until even they would disappear into the night.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed and shrugged, then moved a little further along to make room for him to sit, which he did, placing his hat upon the ground at his feet. She looked down at the letter in her hands and shrugged again \u201cIts from Maurice\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaurice Stevens?\u201d he asked as he glanced at it and then at her, but he didn\u2019t reach out to take it from her, just waited for her to tell him what was so worrying about it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe wants me to marry him.\u201d her voice was toneless, there was no emotion there, not even that of dismissing the proposal, or of derision or sorrow. \u201cHe asked me before I left England and I promised to consider it, but to be honest it really has been a case of out of sight, out of mind. I don\u2019t love him\u2026\u201d her voice drifted and then she sighed and tore the letter into little pieces before standing up and tossing them into the air for the breeze to carry to wherever it wished.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoes that make you feel better?\u201d he said after a moment or so, brushing off some of the pieces of paper that had settled on his shoulders, on his legs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt doesn\u2019t make me feel anything.\u201d she replied and shrugged, then looked at him, \u201cI don\u2019t want to get married, not yet, perhaps never. Does that sound strange coming from a woman?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo. Why? Should it?\u201d he frowned as he wondered what exactly it was that was going through her mind right now. Did she in fact even have a logical thread of sense in her head or was she just talking nonsense for the sake of it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what women want, isn\u2019t it? A man in their lives? A man for protection, security?\u201d her dark eyes flashed and the lips thinned, patches of red blushed her cheeks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sighed, looked at her,a feeling sorrow for the lost child he had loved slipped through his mind,so that for a moment he could think of nothing to say but ‘Oh Peggy, Peggy…’ instead he heard himself say \u201cWhat about love? That\u2019s usually the reason a man and woman marry isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps in your world, Adam.\u201d she sighed and shook her head, \u201cBut we both know that isn\u2019t always true, some women get married to men who don\u2019t love them, don\u2019t they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSome.\u201d he agreed and nodded, \u201cSome think they love one another and then find it isn\u2019t love at all, not strong enough to weather the storms, or the traits of the person which they come to find unbearable.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded, \u201cAnd some women – and some men – aren\u2019t capable of love, they just use people, don\u2019t they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSome.\u201d he said again and sighed, looked around him and wondered where this conversation was taking them. He had a feeling that it could have something to do with Laura, and Frank, and looked at the young woman\u2019s face with intense pity.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid my father love Laura, when he married her, do you think he loved her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked at him now, squarely in the face, watching every shadow, every movement, and he had to shake his head and admit that he didn\u2019t know. \u201cI never knew them well enough at that time, Peggy. I can\u2019t even recall their wedding, I must have been away on some business, perhaps a cattle drive. I think you must have been at least a year old before I really had any dealings with your Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd my mother? Did you have any dealings with her\u2026before Pa died \u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a rather ambiguous question, Peggy.\u201d he said and frowned, his lips tight as though it angered him to have this veiled insinuation thrust at him, \u201cBut no, I didn\u2019t know your mother very well until your father died.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They were silent for a while, both staring down at the ground, at their feet, at the wild flowers that were growing through the lush green of the grass. She shook her head, \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Adam, I should not have said that\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you shouldn\u2019t have, it was – unfair – to your mother, and to myself.\u201d he chewed the inside of his cheek for a second or so before reaching out and taking hold of her hand, surprised that she allowed him to do so, and surprised also to feel her trembling, \u201cYour father wasn\u2019t often at home, as you know, and your mother kept herself very much to herself, as you also know. It would have been considered very improper for any one of the single men in the area to go to the Running D when your father was away from home. Your mother\u2019s reputation would have been ruined and your father, being your father, would have considered it sufficient reason to leave her. Many men would have done so, just as many women have left husbands for the same reason.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut my mother didn\u2019t leave him\u201d she said simply and frowned \u201cI don\u2019t want a marriage like that, as I said before, I don\u2019t want marriage at all, but should it happen I want to know the man I marry loves me – body and soul.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEvery one deserves to be loved that way, Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded and removed her hand to brush away the little pieces of paper that had settled on her skirts. \u201cAdam, did you love my mother like that\u2026body and soul?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cObviously not, otherwise I would have made a greater attempt to fight Will off, once I had recovered, of course.\u201d he smiled, although there was no humour in his eyes, just a wariness as this conversation trickled into areas he preferred left unexplored.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill adores my mother. He\u2019s still as much in love with her now as he ever was, and it\u2019s as though nothing and no one else really matters but her and her happiness.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen I should expect that they are both very happy,\u201d he smiled again, and his eyes looked at a tree some distance away as though seeing Will and Laura, standing together, close, their arms locked around each other and their lips touching. He sighed, and shrugged \u201cArnt you glad that your mother\u2019s happy? I have a feeling that I would not have made her as happy as Will has done. I – er – well, I guess I wouldn\u2019t have loved her enough to have been -\u201d he paused as he searched for the right word but shook his head, shrugged his shoulders and raised his eyebrows.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you wouldn\u2019t have made her happy, when I was little I used to hear her complain about how you made her feel as though she could never do anything right and how you expected so much from her. She would say it laughingly of course but I used to be so surprised because I thought she was happy with you, and in love, because you were just so wonderful to her, Adam. I thought she just had to be happy having you as her husband. She was so different once you came into our lives .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stopped then and shook her head, \u201cI don\u2019t know why we\u2019re talking about my mother and all that past history, it isn\u2019t really relevant to what we started to talk about , is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know. Isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked at him again, stared into the dark eyes that looked so concernedly at her, and then she turned away, \u201cNo, it isn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy, when I met your mother and got to know you after Frank died, you were so angry, so intense in the way you felt about your mother, you were confused and frightened about a lot of things. But, you know, your mother was feeling just the same in a way, except that she had learned to suppress her anger knowing that she gained nothing with Frank by being angry. But she was confused, frightened, very frightened. She needed your love then, but -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI hated her.\u201d Peggy said simply and turned her face away to stare over at the lake, then raised her eyes to look at the sky, to watch birds skim overhead \u201cFather didn\u2019t love her, you know that – and she knew it too – and it was like a disease in a way, it spread, it blighted my life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I think it did.\u201d he nodded in agreement, and narrowed his eyes, \u201cI think you\u2019re right.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI loved my father so much, and he said we were going to go away, and I wanted to go away from her as much as he did. Even the way she loved me, and I knew she did love me, but it wasn\u2019t enough, Adam, I didn\u2019t want her love, I wanted my father.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, looked down at the ground for a moment, watched an insect toil along a blade of grass and then as it bent beneath its weight drop off. He rubbed his jaw with his long fingers and nodded again,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe was going to take you away, Peggy. He had it all arranged, that was why he was so happy the day he was coming home and rushed that fence without thinking what he was doing. He thought he had achieved his goal, he was going to collect you and ride off with you and -\u201d he paused then, perhaps it would be unfair to mention about the flashy woman in the buggy who had produced the letter Frank had written to her, the woman he had intended to be his daughter\u2019s step mother. He sighed and shook his head, then stood up \u201cPeggy, you have to let it all go you know. All these years of keeping what happened locked up inside of you is eating you away, destroying your own right to happiness.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHappiness? Married life with children? Like that woman in the library?\u201d Peggy said with a hard edge to her words, \u201cWhy does it always have to come down to marriage\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t believe I mentioned being married, only that you deserve to be happy. That could be with a career, which you already have, or a cause, which you are pursuing – rather vigorously it seems – or in any other way you should choose. There are many, many women who lead fulfilled lives without a man, without marriage, without needing that kind of life. But there will always be as many others who do want a happy marriage, the Prince Charming to whisk them away to whatever bliss they anticipate. Why fight it so hard?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know.\u201d she shook her head, \u201cI suppose in a way I always have done, ever since you and mother parted, and Will came on the scene. I think I trusted you too much, Adam, and I loved you too. I wanted you to provide my happy ever after when I was a little girl, I wanted you to put my life back together, to collect up the pieces and mend them. But you didn\u2019t – you left me – you left me alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam drew in his breath and stepped back a pace or two, before reaching out and putting his arm around her and holding her close to him, and then she began to weep, just silent tears, tears of grief and misery that she had held back for years and years.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI loved you so much, Adam.\u201d she whispered in a voice thick with tears and emotion as she stepped away from him and fumbled for a handkerchief, \u201cI trusted you. I knew that if you married Laura, you would have loved me too. But then you stepped away from her, from me. Will took your place, but he didn\u2019t love me, he – he\u2019s a good man, a kind man, but he doesn\u2019t love me, and I\u2019m not even sure he loves his own children that much, he just humours them and he loves her you see he loves her so much he has no room left for anyone else.\u201d she released a shuddering sob, and dabbed frantically at her eyes \u201cAnd she enjoys it all so much, and -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy.\u201d he spoke softly with a firmer tone to his voice \u201cWhatever and however they love one another, doesn\u2019t mean you would find that same love with anyone. Whoever you loved -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shook her head effectively silencing him, \u201cYou don\u2019t understand,\u201d she said and stared into his face, \u201cYou just don\u2019t understand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She walked away then, her back straight and her face raised to the sun. For a moment Adam watched her as she made her way to the buggy, and it was only when she was seated and had picked up the reins that he began to make his own way back to the wagon. She never looked back towards him, never raised a hand to say farewell but drove straight on.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 44<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam arrived home some hours later for there were other tasks to carry out once he had unloaded the goods from the wagon. Hoss needed help with loading planks onto the now empty vehicle and if he noticed that his brother was quiet and not too willing to talk he took no notice, he was used to his brother\u2019s vagaries by now and continued whistling under his breath even though he knew it would annoy him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was good to step into his own home, however, and it was Reuben who was first to reach his side, taking the hat from his hands almost as soon as it was off his head, while Sofia hovered close by shifting from foot to foot as though performing a new version of an Indian war dance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, guess what happened today?\u201d Reuben cried his eyes shining and his face beaming with delight as he placed his father;s hat carefully in its allotted place.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, what?\u201d Adam smiled and glanced over their heads to look over at his wife who was standing in the door way to the kitchen, with Nathaniel tugging at her apron for attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I told the gang about our camping trip and they want to come to the next one. Can they come, Pa, can they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd me, daddy. I want to come too.\u201d Sofia said, rushing over to him now and jumping up to wrap her arms around his neck and hug him tight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He carefully straightened up, for Sofia\u2019s onslaughts on him always caused him to bend slightly at the knees, and then untangled himself from her arms. He looked at her, at the earnest face, eager eyes, before he turned his attention to Reuben who was obviously irritated by his sister\u2019s request.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGirls can\u2019t come.\u201d the boy stated and folded his arms across his chest, he thrust out his chin \u201cThey can\u2019t, can they, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I -\u201d Adam began to unbuckle his belt and roll it carefully around the holster as he glanced over at Olivia who raised her eyebrows and shook her head before disappearing into the kitchen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa? Only the gang can come, can\u2019t they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam scratched the back of his neck and frowned \u201cI don\u2019t recall saying that they could, Reuben.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Pa, they want to come\u2026they don\u2019t have Pa\u2019s like you, their Pa\u2019s are old sticks in the mud, Mr Riley can\u2019t even ride a horse and Jimmy doesn\u2019t even have a Pa. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I can come too, can\u2019t I, daddy?\u201d big blue eyes looked unblinkingly into his face, freckles chased over a cute little nose and her blonde curls were tousled loosely over her face. Adam had a fleeting glimpse of just how beautiful his daughter was going to be when she was a young woman. \u201cCan\u2019t I, daddy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben turned on to her straight away, his eyes narrowed and a scowl on his face,<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t, Sofia, you\u2019re a girl. Girls don\u2019t go hunting and camping like we do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed, perhaps this is where it all begins, the ‘boys can and girls can\u2019t’ business. No wonder women were so up in arms about it all now. He raised a hand upon seeing Sofia\u2019s mouth opening in protest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGirls can, Reuben. Just think of the number of women who come west on wagon trains, who fight Indians, bad weather, who hunt and forage as well as the men.\u201d he placed a hand on his son\u2019s shoulders, \u201cApart from which they cook the meals, do the laundry and care for the children. They even have babies \u2026\u201d he paused and for a moment thought of Inger, of the baby (\u201cMy, he\u2019s a big un!\u201d) and sighed \u201cNow, Sofia, when you are old enough, you can come with your brother and me, but only when you are old enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked down at Reuben and frowned \u201cIn the meantime you can teach your sister how to track, and some of the other things you have learned. Life is changing, we all need to change along with it or suffer the consequences.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat’s them\u2026whats con-see-quents-sis?\u201d Sofia asked with her face looking questioningly at him<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll see later on.\u201d Adam answered and grinned slightly at the play on words that went right over their heads.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He led them into the kitchen area and kissed Olivia on the cheek, picked Nathaniel up and hugged him, thinking as he did so that the boy was growing too fast, and gave him another hug as though that thought frightened him. One day he wouldn\u2019t be able to give hugs like this, one day little Nathaniel would be a grown man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sounds of a scuffle going on behind him alerted him to put Nathaniel in his chair and turn to regard the two children, Reuben scowled \u201cShe just hit me.\u201d and he rubbed his chest where his sisters fist had just landed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia turned and shook her head \u201cSofia, that\u2019s no way for a lady to behave.\u201d she scolded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, mommy, I\u2019m not a lady, I\u2019m a little girl.\u201d Sofia said in her \u2018sweet as sugar\u2019 voice and she gave a little half smile \u201cAnd he was teasing me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was not!\u201d asserted the aggrieved brother and he clenched his fist but Adams hand curled around it before he could let fly in retaliation,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEnough now.\u201d he said sternly, and glared at them both, looking at first one then the other, ‘Gentlemen don\u2019t hit young ladies, Reuben.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben smirked immediately \u201cBut, Pa, I\u2019m not a gentleman, yet, I\u2019m just a little boy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But his attempts to put on Sofia\u2019s \u2018sweet as sugar\u2019 voice failed miserably as he got a slap on the backside and was told not to be insolent but to sit down and keep quiet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia felt uncomfortable upon noting that reproof, it was unlike Adam to treat his children in that manner and she was left wondering what had happened during the day to have caused her husband\u2019s temper to be shorter than usual.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Food was set down at the table while Adam went to clean up and make himself presentable for the meal. He had a quiet few words, in Cantonese, with Cheng Ho Lee who bowed and nodded, and then joined them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The meal passed with no further incident, although Olivia told Adam about the quilting session, because Nathaniel wanted his daddy to know that he played with the \u2018big boys\u2019 and Hope. Poor Hannah being regulated to the \u2018has-beens\u2019 like Erik and Constance.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam didn\u2019t like to discuss adult topics around the table with the children present so the conversation was kept light. Instead they heard about Mr Evans having spent the evening meal with the Carstairs and how much Jimmy had hated it. \u201cThat\u2019s why he wants to come camping with us, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh because he wont\u2019 be told to keep his elbows off the table, huh?\u201d Adam smiled, Sofia giggled and Reuben gave a Hoss like guffaw.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Afterwards they had time to spend together by the small fire, Adam helping with Reuben\u2019s math homework while Sofia was shown, yet again, how to knit, the casting on was the hardest part she insisted but only because she wanted to sit and day dream while her mother\u2019s nimble fingers did the casting on for her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel had a story read to him from his favourite book then Adam swung him onto his shoulders and carried him up to bed, singing a marching song as he went which Nathaniel loved as he clapped his hands in time to the tune.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After the little boy was settled down Adam went down to find Reuben and Sofia sitting side by side listening as Olivia told them a story. When she had finished and answered various questions the children raised, Reuben looked up and over to his father who was now settled in his own chair<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, when are you going to learn me how to shoot a gun?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed and rolled his eyes, \u201cI shall teach you when you are old enough, and you will learn what I teach you as and when, do you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.,\u201d Sofia said immediately.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa wasn\u2019t talking to you, nit-wit\u2026\u201d Reuben retorted with a scowl at his sister who immediately clenched her fist ready for some swift remedial redress.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReuben, that\u2019s enough!\u201d Olivia said with a sharper than usual tone to her voice \u201cSofia, how many more times do I have to tell you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia sighed and hung her head but Reuben scowled still, darting angry looks at his sister until Adam told them it was time to get to bed and to do so, promptly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill I have to walk the gangplank if I don\u2019t, daddy?\u201d Sofia giggled<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd be fed to the sharks\u2026\u201d Reuben said with a satisfied note in his voice, \u201cSharks like little girls.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, they don\u2019t ..\u201d Sofia cried, looking suddenly rather large eyed and tearful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey don\u2019t particularly care what size the meal comes in,\u201d Adam said sharply, \u201cNow, off with you\u2026right now\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He jumped up out of his chair as though to chase them up the stairs and laughing, squealing, they made a rush for them, running up with thuds of the feet to their rooms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was Olivia who went up to settle them down for the night, to kiss them and give them their night time cuddles and hear their prayers. She drew the curtains across their windows and left them to sleep, peeked into Nathaniel’s room to hear him snorting in his sleep and then went back into the big room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was standing with her cape in his hands, and a smile on his face. He was wearing his hat and jacket and when she paused at the bottom step he raised his eyebrows and laughed \u201cThere\u2019s a full moon outside.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI noticed\u2026\u201d she said as she reached for the cape and allowed him to slip it over her shoulders, drop a kiss onto the back of her neck and then take her hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome along then.\u201d he grinned and then leaned towards her, narrowed his eyes and whispered \u201cUnless you don\u2019t trust me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t\u201d she replied with a slight laugh, \u201cLead on\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hand in hand they left the house, closed the door and there was the two seater rig waiting for them with Mistral pawing at the ground. The moon was so fat and full it was as though she was bursting with light that had to be showered down upon the earth, upon this one couple who stood for a moment to gaze up at it before getting into the vehicle. Then Adam smiled, leaned down to kiss his wife, and flicked the reins.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the vehicle trundled its way out of the yard Reuben peeked from his window to watch, his eyes followed the pair sitting side by side, the horse striding forwards, and then disappearing behind the trees. He sighed and fell back into his bed, closed his eyes, and slipped back into dreams<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy hadn\u2019t returned to the Ponderosa after her encounter with Adam. She felt emotionally bruised and miserable so drove to the one place she most wanted to be\u2026the river\u2019s edge, the flat slab of a stone, on what had been the Running D ranch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sat on the stone and brought her knees up to her chin, wrapped her arms around her legs and stared into the water. She sat and wept, immersed in her cocoon of self pity and isolation. She had told Adam what she thought was the truth about Will and Laura\u2026how they were so in love with each other that the children didn\u2019t really seem to matter. From her viewpoint perhaps she was correct for as soon as they had left Nevada she had been whisked off to a Boarding School for young ladies, and then a Finishing School in Switzerland. Then there had been college. It seemed to her that as soon as they had had a chance to be a family she had been \u2019packed off\u2019. That in some way, as a daughter, she had failed her new step-father and never measured up to the standards her mother required in her children.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel Greigson had seen the dust thrown up by the vehicle and watched as it had rolled towards the lake. From his vantage point he could see her clearly, but her misery was too profound, it seemed to him, for him to ride down to give her any companionship. Her attitude towards him had always been so dismissive and aggressive that he wasn\u2019t even sure why the sight of her crying bothered him so much anyway.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stopped the rig close by the river where the moon looked down at her mirror image and admired herself. It was quiet apart from the sounds of the rushing waters, and he helped her down, his hands around her waist as he lifted her from the wagon seat. Then he led her to the area under the tree, before returning to the vehicle to get a basket which he brought to where they were to sit.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From the basket came a light supper, a bottle of wine, glasses\u2026and she sat and watched him as he poured the wine and handed her a glass before filling a glass of his own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is a perfect evening,\u201d she whispered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, many a night like this I\u2019ve spent walking the deck and looking at the moon and wondering what everyone was doing here, on the Ponderosa. It was probably the only time I actually allowed myself to wallow in missing home. But -\u201d he paused and leaned down to kiss her \u201cafter I met you, I missed you all the time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She said nothing to that, just added a more passionate kiss to his, and then they sat back, smiled at one another, drank a little more wine. She told him about her day, about Mary Ann and the Meeting, and he told her about Nate and what he had advised. They were silent for a while drinking the wine, nibbling the cheese and biscuits, the grapes\u2026she reached out to touch his face, obscured now by shadow as the moon slipped behind a cloud.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou seemed angry about something when you got home, Adam.\u201d she said quietly, \u201cDo you want to talk about it now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot really, this is not the time to waste on talking about that..\u201d he said off handedly and poured more wine into their glasses before tossing the empty bottle back into the basket.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo there was something?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He held the glass of wine in his fingers and looked at it, watched as the moon light bounced reflections from the ruby redness of it. Then he sighed and looked at her,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI met Peggy on the way here,\u201d he muttered without looking at her, keeping his voice soft and low, \u201cMaurice had written to her and asked her to marry him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She frowned slightly, and watched as he pursed his lips slightly, \u201cWell, that’s a good thing, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy doesn\u2019t think so, she tore the letter up and tossed it to the four winds\u2026\u201d he sipped some wine, and then leaned back a little, resting upon one elbow and nursing the wine glass in his other hand. \u201cShe has quite a disdain for marriage.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo I gathered from what Hester has told me.\u201d Olivia said with a sigh as she regretted now having pursued the subject he had been unwilling to discuss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s obsessed by her feelings for her father, an overwhelming love for him. At the same time she\u2019s obsessed by feelings for her mother, a deep dislike, almost -\u201d he glanced at her and frowned \u201calmost as though she hates Laura. It\u2019s as though she feels betrayed by them both\u2026and me too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At this he sighed, she saw the motion of his back, up and down with the depth of his sigh. Then he leaned towards her, \u201cShe made me feel as though I had betrayed her trust, by not marrying her mother. I couldn\u2019t get her to understand \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe sounds as though she is still the little girl she was then, coming home thinking you were going to be her daddy, and finding Will had taken your place. Perhaps she\u2019s still trying to come to terms with it. I don\u2019t know, Adam, it\u2019s very complex.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI remember you saying once before that many adults are shaped by the childhood they had, and it seems to me that Peggy must have had a really miserable one. I had a part in it too, I let her down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stroked his arm then, her fingers caressed his neck, and she leaned in to kiss him, \u201cMy darling, Peggy has to grow up sooner or later, and realise that it has nothing to do with you at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam allowed himself a fleeting frown, a slight wrinkle of the nose and pout of the mouth. He didn\u2019t fully agree with his wife on that, he didn\u2019t think Peggy would ever grow up or forgive him. But this was not the time or place, and turning towards her he pulled her into his arms, kissed her mouth, her cheeks, and felt once again the thrill of joy as she responded with a passion that always was an answer to his own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 45<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the morning sky became ever more blue, and the sun rose lazily above the clouds to shine benignly upon the town, so the inhabitants roused themselves to go about their daily tasks.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mr Anderson, Manager of Ridleys Mercantile and Livery, opened his doors and began to wield his broom to good effect while his assistants began to arrive, nodding good day and donning their aprons while setting out the goods for sale on the side walk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda Ridley unrolled the shutters to her establishment and stood in the centre of the room with her hands clasped together for her to soak in a few minutes of pride and vanity at having accomplished so much. This was her empire. She had fought her battles and come through with very good profit margins.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs Carstairs saw her son run off to school and then made a hasty descent to the work room below. By the time Amanda had removed her bonnet Mrs Carstairs was setting out the mannequins and removing the dust covers from the counters.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel deQuille strolled to the newspaper offices and stepped inside to the noise and rattle of the machines as they printed out various posters, tabloids and newsletters. He nodded a greeting to all there and went to his desk. He was feeling particularly vulnerable today, his mouth was dry and if there had been a bottle of whisky anywhere on the premises he would have consumed it for breakfast.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Dr James Corby nursed his baby son in his arms and smiled over at his wife as she poured him his morning coffee. It was a late breakfast as he had been out that night visiting a patient with consumption. It had been a difficult visit as the man had a wife and six children all of whom were beside themselves with fear of what was going to happen to them should he die. Dr Corby assured them that all was well, and then rode home despising himself for telling such a lie, even though the look of relief on the wife\u2019s face gave him some, temporary, solace.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie Martin bustled down to the Womans Refuge \/ Clinic and everything else it had morphed into being over the years since its conception. Mrs Garston met her half way looking more sour than ever and with tight lips and flushed cheeks she informed Bridie that she was about to wash her hands off her daughter, Lucy, who was clearly \u2018off her head\u2019. \u201cAnd no help from my husband, Mrs Martin, no help whatsoever!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In her room Lucy put the finishing touches to her speech. She muttered the words beneath her breath until she was able to repeat them by heart. Peggy had warned her not to be too aggressive in the introduction to the meeting, but to save all that for the summing up. Lucy thought she knew better. When she thought that she had knocked Mary Ann Cartwright out of the proceedings she felt a smug glow of delight. Served her right for marrying Little Joe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale opened the door to the library and walked slowly into the building, her footsteps echoed hollowly behind her. Rows of bookshelves, and shelf upon shelf of books. Well, what else would one expect from a library. She sighed, and looked around her as the thought of retirement came to mind. She had never intended to stay for so long and now here she was, an old spinster with no true pleasure behind her for all the years she had lived here. She found a feather duster and began to remove cobwebs – not that she found any but one never knew – and any dust from the shelves.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The library assistant entered the building and paused at the entrance to look around her, then stepped into Miss Tyndale\u2019s domain. She watched the industrious little woman as she flicked her feather duster here, there and everywhere, a bundle of nervous energy if ever there was one. The spines of myriads of books stared back at her, golden letters shone here and there proclaiming the title of some, and as she approached Miss Tyndale she took a deep breath and asked, very politely, if she could have a private word.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had spent quite a lot of time pondering over her decision, one moment she had thought not to go ahead and speak to the Librarian, and then would change her mind and decide it was better to do so. She had had little sleep as a result of her anxieties but had resolved that morning that the matter had to be resolved in an honest and proper manner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale paused in her dusting and looked first at her assistant then at the clock.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe have five minutes before opening, Miss Gregory. Come to my office.\u201d and putting down the feather duster she led the way through the bookshelves proclaiming \u2018Romances\u2019 to the left and \u2018History\u2019 to the right.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs this to do with your having to see Mr Woods?\u201d she asked before taking her seat. \u201cI hope, Miss Gregory, that you are not going to tell me you have been involved with anything illegal.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Gregory looked at her employer and sighed, she did not sit down as Miss Tyndale had not offered her to do so. She stood with her hands clasped at her waist, her bonnet perched neatly on her head, and her eyes dark rimmed from lack of sleep. She nodded,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Tyndale, I have a confession to make to you and ask that you hear me out before you tell me what you consider doing.\u201d she faltered as the other woman frowned and narrowed her eyes, but she remained silent so Elizabeth cleared her throat and stared at the wall behind Miss Tyndale\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy name is Katherine Royale. I came here because I wanted to remove myself from everything to do with my mother, and the events that took place there in Bodie, where we lived. My father was a Major in the U.S Army, he was a good man, a good soldier and when he retired we moved to Bodie. After his death, I should tell you the truth here, actually, it was after his murder, my mother took control of the town\u2026she became its law and its judge, she also became mine. After her death I needed to get away, to make a fresh start, and I thought with a new life I should have a new name\u2026which is why I chose to call myself Elizabeth Godfrey.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She paused, and drew in her breath which she slowly exhaled for she had spoken all in a rush in order to say everything that she thought relevant. Miss Tyndale said nothing, but looked at her with an expressionless face, her eyes behind her glasses were without any show of emotion. For a moment she toyed with a small ornamental knife used to slit open envelopes then she looked at Elizabeth with more intensity as she asked her if she had anything to do with the abduction of Sofia Cartwright some while back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t an abduction, Miss Tyndale, we found her abandoned, or so we thought, with a blizzard about to blow. We had to take her to safety and with Bodie being at such a high elevation we did not dare to delay by taking her back to wherever she may have come from, which we did not know \u2026we saved her life.\u201d she paused and wondered how many times she would have to repeat this story. Perhaps she should go to the Territorial Enterprise and get it published in the newspaper for all to see to save herself the bother in future. If, of course, she had a future here in Virginia City.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale clasped her hands together as though about to say a prayer, she rested her chin upon them, and regarded Elizabeth thoughtfully, \u201cAnd why are you going to see Mr Woods?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor advice.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale nodded and thought that was probably not all the story, that there was probably a lot more that was being held back from this little narrative. She stood up, \u201cThere are a lot of people here in this town, and no doubt in many towns similar, who hide behind new names, all wanting to make a new fresh start to life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The silence that followed that statement seemed to drag on as the seconds ticked away, and both women regarded the other with some concern. Miss Tyndale broke the silence \u201cDo you intend to stay here ?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat depends on Mr Woods\u2019 advice.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale nodded \u201cI see, then shall we wait and see what he says. In the meantime let us just carry on as normal. I shall refer to you as Miss Gregory unless you prefer to be known as Miss Royale now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Gregory would be preferable for now, Miss Tyndale.\u201d she looked at the older woman and gave a rather tentative smile \u201cThank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was time to start the new day so both women turned to leave the office, their skirts brushing against the wood panelled walls, their faces turned towards the myriads of books awaiting their attention.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The morning had started well for Joe and Mary Ann. It seemed that since Peggy\u2019s visit they had settled into some kind of truce and from thereon everything had just fallen back to how things always had been, and should be. Both of them were happy and relaxed, both of them had arrived at a decision and neither of them had discussed what that decision was in case it offended the other and caused that rift to re-emerge.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So Mary Ann did not know that Joe had decided to just leave the matter alone and if she wanted to give a speech at this Meeting then so be it, he would give her his support and make sure his brothers and he would be available to protect her should the need arise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So Joe did not know that Mary Ann had decided to say as little as possible about anything at the Meeting. She would attend as promised and she would introduce the speakers \u2026 but say nothing else apart from encouraging the audience to pay attention and to appreciate what a good worthy cause Votes for Women was for the whole community. She would speak in her best school ma\u2019am manner and then step aside for Peggy and Lucy to take over.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As they shared a good morning kiss, and Joe stroked her neck and told her how lovely she was, Mary Ann even pondered on what excuse she could offer to avoid going to the meeting all together. A little bit of guilt did remind her that it was a cause she believed in, so she couldn\u2019t default on it now. Or could she?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe rode down to the Ponderosa ranch house and arrived just as Hop Sing was pouring out the morning coffee. Hop Sing smiled, the fact Joe always arrived in time for coffee made him think that the coffee served in Joe\u2019s own home was still not as good as it was here, and with that good feeling he poured out a cup and handed it to the young man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was already seated at the table, listening to Ben out lining some plan to erect fences on the low pasture in order to prevent bears or wolves getting to the cattle he intended to over winter there. Hope had sidled onto her Uncle\u2019s knee and was chewing on her bread, while Hannah was tickling Erik and making him chuckle and kick his legs in that gleeful manner of young infants everywhere.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester and Peggy were seated at the table, both having finished eating and now sipping at their coffee. Both were silent, and Joe remembered when he had lived there with Mary Ann for the first few months of their marriage and how much chatter there was between the two women at meal times. Ah well, Peggy was obviously not a morning type of person.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The men left the table, Hope was swung in the air and placed gently on her chair as her Uncle strolled over to the area where Ben had his \u2018study\u2019. Maps were pulled out of the long drawer and unfurled on the desk, they leaned in to observe it and followed the direction of Ben\u2019s finger as he outlined where the fence should go.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen do you want us to start?\u201d Adam asked wondering if this was economically sound, after all Ben was often coming out with ideas that proved too costly in their execution and had to be abandoned. They were good ideas, really sound and sensible, but the size of their land made for difficulties.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe sooner the better. Have we barbed wire?\u201d Ben said, his black eyes looking at his sons faces, as though he anticipated some objection.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam ran a thumb over his jaw \u201cIt\u2019s a long way to travel\u2026I mean \u2026putting up fencing there, it\u2019ll take some time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know it\u2019s a long way to travel, Adam. There\u2019s a line shack close by that will be fit for purpose, that\u2019ll cut down on wasted time.\u201d Ben replied, seeing his plan about to get thrown out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded \u201cYeah, Adam, it was you told us about the bears. Just needs one ol\u2019 Ma Bear to bring her cubs down and rear \u2018em up there to think it\u2019s their territory and the next thing you know we\u2019ll be getting a whole lot of trouble from \u2018em . Best thing we can do is protect the herd.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t you think of any way to drive the bears up to their own country?\u201d Joe asked, thinking that now was not a good time to leave Mary Ann alone, apart from which his arm still ached.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBears can be ornery critters, Joe. You know that ?\u201d Hoss scowled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was a nodding of heads in agreement to that, Joe was aware of Peggy leaving the room, Hester was bustling about tending to Erik and the girls. Ben scratched the back of his neck, \u201cBest get more wire ordered. We\u2019ll need more wood. Guess we could make a start on it next week.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go into town and get the barbed wire ordered.\u201d Joe said gallantly and Adam nodded and said he would go with him seeing that he only had one usable arm<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe grinned to himself, Adam obviously knew that a stop over at the Bucket of Blood was part of the deal. Hoss said he would go to the timber camp and check on MacManus to make sure he had enough wood available.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben smiled, nodded and congratulated himself in having got his sons to see things his way without too much argument. He relaxed and watched them leave the house, Hoss pausing to kiss his wife on the way out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy had decided to walk the track up to Mary Ann\u2019s home. She was not sure as to how to go about telling her friend that Lucy Garston was going to do the introductory talk now and that perhaps Mary Ann could just \u2018advise\u2019 and perhaps sit on the panel answering questions from the audience.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann was quite nervous when she opened the door to Peggy but smiled and stepped aside for the other woman to enter the house. Daniel came running up expecting to see one of his Uncles or Grandfather but seeing the woman whom he felt may create more tension in the house he backed off and returned to his play.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy allowed Mary Ann to chatter on about nothing of any importance before she asked her if she had ever read any of Susan B Anthony\u2019s* speeches, or even any of those by Elizabeth Stanton,* and other leading women in the suffrage movements.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course I have,\u201d Mary Ann acknowledged and looked thoughtfully at Peggy who appeared to her to have arrived as though ready for war. \u201cI know that Stanton called Women\u2019s suffrage to be the greatest revolution the world has ever known or ever will know\u201d* and that initially Susan Anthony admitted that she wasn\u2019t ready for the vote, didn\u2019t want it but she did want equal pay for equal work.* of course she takes a far more aggressive role in the movement now. I believe she and Stanton are working together to bring about much needed changes in Government.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, they are\u2026but there are a lot of women who are working for this cause now. Some States are allowing partial suffrage of course, allowing women to vote in school elections, or voting for the Mayor but partial suffrage isn\u2019t what we want, is it? We want a voice in Government.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut isn\u2019t that what Anthony tried to achieve when she cast a vote for the Presidential Elections in 1872*.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy looked at Mary Ann with renewed respect, the woman was obviously a fervent reader of events for the cause and she nodded slowly, \u201cBut she was arrested for voting, wasn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann nodded, \u201cYes, I remember reading about her trial, I believe she referred to the trial as a high handed outrage upon her rights as a citizen with all her rights – her natural rights, civil rights, political rights, judicial rights all ignored.* \u201c Mary Ann laughed and even clapped her hands together in quite girlish enthusiasm \u201cAnd the Judge fined her $100 of which she has not paid a dime.\u201d*<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy smiled and accepted the glass of lemonade that Wang Lee Sing had provided for her, she sipped it slowly, although she kept her eyes on Mary Ann who was now attending to the demands of her little girl who had wanted to \u2018sip some of Mommy\u2019s drink\u2019.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMary Ann, I have something I need to say to you, so best I say it right now before we get too cosy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She wondered if her voice had been as sharp as it seemed for Mary Ann looked up at her as though shocked, her eyes widened and she looked startled, \u201cWhy? What\u2019s wrong? Have you cancelled the meeting?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, nothing like that\u2026\u201d Peggy protested.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, what is it?\u201d Mary Ann lifted her daughter up and settled her onto her lap, then smiled over at Peggy, \u201cBest say it as you\u2019ve started now, Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI saw Lucy in town yesterday, she wants to do the introduction to the Meeting. I read her script, it\u2019s very good.\u201d she paused, she had said all that in a bit of a rush so now swallowed and tried to moderate her breathing \u201cShe\u2019s well known in town, and has her parents background \u2026she\u2019s the perfect person for doing the – the first speech. It really is a very good speech, Mary Ann.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann said nothing, she raised her chin and thought of Lucy Garston, whom she could remember teaching in her last year at the school in Virginia City. Lucy had graduated while Mary Ann was the teacher. Mary Ann lowered her eyes to stare at the far distant hills that could be seen through the window, then she nodded<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what about my speech? Was that not good enough?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou hadn\u2019t finished your speech when I last saw you, and you seemed – well – rather preoccupied at the time. I wasn\u2019t even sure that your speech would be finished on time.\u201d Peggy said, she frowned, \u201cThe cause for suffrage has be whole hearted, Mary Ann. One can\u2019t prevaricate on such important issues.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann sighed and nodded \u201cI see.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe didn\u2019t want you to make the speech anyway, did he?\u201d Peggy said, a lame comment, the last straw in her argument, a reason that could be offered to placate the other person.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he didn\u2019t. But he respected our views, and was prepared to champion our cause to the extent possible\u2026for him, that is \u2026\u201d Mary Ann put Constance down onto the floor and watched the little girl take wobbly steps before getting back into crawl position, \u201cSo what do I do, just attend and sit in the front row twiddling my thumbs?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no, not at all. I wondered if you would preside over the question and answer debate that follows Lucy\u2019s introduction. It\u2019s a very important role, Mary Ann.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWith you providing the answers?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course. I thought that was already agreed upon?\u201d Peggy replied beginning to feel that this interview was going nowhere except towards recrimination and the loss of a friend.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann stood up, \u201cWell, thank you for coming to tell me, Peggy. I shall consider what you have said and let you know in due course.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was a prim response to the snub she had been given, and Peggy accepted it as such for she stood up and nodded, picked up her purse and followed Mary Ann to the door. As she stepped on to the threshold she turned \u201cI hope, we are still friends, Mary Ann?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course.\u201d Mary Ann replied but her eyes were distant, and her lips didn\u2019t smile their warm hearted smile \u201cI guess I\u2019m just not a political animal after all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy thought of several things to say in reply but wisely kept her mouth shut. Mary Ann closed the door behind her and leaned on it for a moment or two, then shook her head, blinked away tears – for she felt angry and humiliated – and walked back to where her children were playing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 46<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When evening came Olivia knew that she would have to deal with this matter of Katherine and Sofia or she would never get a decent nights sleep.\u00a0 It was bad enough having to get through the night with Adam going for his nocturnal prowl at 2 a.m something he had tried to control but every so often needed to do.\u00a0 Old habits die hard as the expression went, and this was one that seemed to have got a firm hold.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She decided to raise the matter while she was helping her daughter read through her lesson for the day.\u00a0 As she pointed to each word and listened to her daughter\u2019s stammering reading she steeled herself to bring the topic up only to have Sofia look up and smile, as she informed her mother that Miss Hayward was going to take them to the library.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s where there are hundreds of books, Mommy.\u00a0 Hundreds and hundreds.\u00a0 And they are all about everything.\u00a0 Miss Hayward said there\u2019s a book for everyone so I am going to look for a book for \u00a0you\u2026\u201d she smiled, big blue eyes and rosebud lips, pearly white teeth, \u201cMommy, what book shall I get you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia couldn\u2019t answer as her brain went blank.\u00a0 Her rehearsal of what to say, was void.\u00a0 Her lead up, her gentle probing – irrelevant.\u00a0 She looked down at her daughter\u2019s eager face and smiled back, she shook her head \u201cI don\u2019t know, Sofia\u2026I like books on history, and I like poetry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy likes poetry\u2026\u201d Sofia said with a self satisfied little smile and then she frowned, \u201cAre you alright, mommy?\u00a0 You look sad.\u00a0 Are you unhappy, lovely mommy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia blinked, shivered and shook her head, \u2018lovely mommy\u2019 her daughter had called her, but how could she be if she were to let her child walk into that building and come face to face with Katherine?\u00a0 What if she became upset, distraught even?\u00a0 Then she gave herself a mental shake and told her self that this was the opening that she needed, even if it were a less desirable one than the one she had planned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSofia, do you remember that lady you called Aunt Katherine?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could hardly believe she was mentioning that name, giving her the prefix of Aunt, she shivered again and looked at the child, saw the pupils of her eyes dilate, then expand, the catch of her breath and the parting of her mouth and then the slight nod.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat lady who had the doll house and called me Alice?\u201d Sofia asked and seemed to sit closer to her mother, so that her body was pressed hard against Olivia\u2019s.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that lady.\u00a0 The – the nice one – not the older lady -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, she was horrible, she was like a witch.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it isn\u2019t her, it\u2019s the nice one \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe used to brush my hair and gave me pink ribbons.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but – the thing is -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMom\u201d \u00a0Reuben came into the room and frowned, looked at them seated so closely together and shrugged \u201cI got a splinter.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see to it in a moment, Reuben.\u00a0 Get yourself a glass of milk.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill that help me get the splinter out?\u201d he grinned, a little smirk at the thought that he was being clever, giving a smart reply.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it doesn\u2019t, now – off \u00a0you go and keep an eye on Nathaniel.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know where he is.\u201d Reuben sighed and wandered out of the room looking at his hand and frowning as he wondered how to get the splinter out without having to have a glass of milk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, Sofia\u2026\u201d Olivia cleared her throat and stroked her daughter\u2019s face, \u201cIf I remember rightly you quite liked Katherine, didn\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, except that I didn\u2019t want to be called Alice and she didn\u2019t believe me when I said I was Sofia. \u00a0 She kept saying I was dreaming.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d Olivia nodded and looked at Sofia again, stroked back a wisp of hair and thought that any woman would want a daughter like her, she was so pretty and smart, no wonder Katherine had loved her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWere you frightened of Katherine?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d Sofia shook her head and looked down at the book in her lap, she gave a slight shrug \u201cShe was nice.\u00a0 She let me read books.\u00a0 There were lots of books in her house.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo, if you met her again, you wouldn\u2019t be scared, would you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia frowned and stared down at the picture of a cat, she could read the words under the cat, it read \u201cThis cat is Tom.\u00a0 His name is Tom.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSofia?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia\u2019s voice drifted over the little girl\u2019s head and Sofia sighed, \u00a0\u201cYes, Mommy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you saw Katherine again, in town ..here in town I mean\u2026you wouldn\u2019t be frightened of her, would you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u00a0 She was nice.\u201d she bowed her head over the book and read slowly \u201cThis-cat-is-Tom. \u00a0 His-name-is-Tom.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSofia, listen to me now.\u201d Olivia put her hand over the page and stopped the reading, Sofia looked up with a slight frown and a question in her eyes but Olivia smiled only and said rather breathlessly \u201cWhen you go to the library, you may meet Katherine there.\u00a0 She works with Miss Tyndale \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoesn\u2019t she live with the witch anymore?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, that old lady is – she died a long time ago.\u201d Olivia bit her bottom lip and watched her daughter\u2019s facial expressions as the child digested the information she was being given. \u00a0 \u201cDo you understand what I am saying, dear?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Mommy\u2026.but she isn\u2019t really my Aunt is she?\u00a0 She was just pretending?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that\u2019s right, she was just pretending.\u201d Olivia nodded and caressed the milky blonde curls that were scattered over her arm.\u00a0 Love can create pain, an ache in the heart as acute as hunger and with a sigh she dropped a kiss on Sofia\u2019s brow and held her closer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“And she isn’t here to take me away again, is she?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“No, she’s here to work in the library..” Olivia frowned, trying to sound convincing, but Adam had assured her that Katherine meant no harm to their daughter and on that basis she felt confident that she and Sofia could feel safe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“And she is nice, isn’t she?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“You liked her before …when she was in the big house with the library.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Oh yes, I forgot…” Sofia nodded and for a moment stared down at the page in her book, \u201cI\u2019ll read the next page now, shall I, Mommy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded and was about to speak when Reuben came into the room holding Nathaniel by the hand, and a feeling of contentment stole over the mother as she looked from one to the other of them, pride and joy and love fought their own internal battles within her, \u00a0whatever could she do without them in her life, and as Nathaniel ran towards her holding a very chewed wooden horse for her to see she could have wept from the intensity of her emotions.<\/p>\n

,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A new day and an appointment that Katherine Royale dreaded but was more than ready to face.\u00a0 If she wanted a new life then, in a manner of speaking, she needed to wipe the slate clean.\u00a0 She left the library as the appointed time and made her way over to the Lawyers offices.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hiram Woods straightened his sleeve cuffs and adjusted his collar before seating himself at his desk and pulling the papers towards him for a further scrutiny. \u00a0 He had read most of the information upon them and knew that he would find no further surprises in the last pages. \u00a0 He had been shocked enough while reading the first section, and thanked the Powers that be that this wretched Rosemarie Royale and Jethro Tombs had never met and formed a coalition.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He dashed an underline beneath a phrase here and there and then set down the pen, he closed the folder and sat back, his fingers intertwined across the expanse of his stomach and his chin resting thoughtfully upon his chest. \u00a0 Rosemarie Royale\u2019s journals had been written with an accuracy of detail that was both fascinating and terrifying to the elderly Lawyer.\u00a0 He knew with a 100% certainty that had she ever been arrested and brought to trial then she would have been hanged for her crimes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A slight knock on the door and his clerk peeked into the room upon Hiram bellowing \u201cYes!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Godfrey here to see you, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShow her in\u2026and bring some coffee.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The clerk ducked out of the room and then opened the door wide to allow Katherine admittance. \u00a0 She paused for a moment as though she needed to catch her breath, as though nerves had got the better of her for that brief time, then she stepped to the chair that Hiram indicated was for her.\u00a0 She carried a box in her hands and Hiram had a terrible feeling that there were going to be more journals within it and further disclosures of crimes committed by the woman\u2019s dreadful mother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Looking at the young woman seated now before him Hiram wondered if it were possible for her to have inherited any of her mother\u2019s evil corrupt ways, or whether she really was as innocent as she looked.\u00a0 He recalled to mind that at no time had he read of Katherine\u2019s involvement in any of the crimes committed, rather there was more effort in concealment than anything else.\u00a0 Throughout the journals Katherine had been written as a dutiful daughter, too sweet natured for her own good and totally unsuited to the life that Rosemarie led.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow then, young lady, let\u2019s cut to the chase shall we?\u201d \u00a0He placed some spectacles on his beak of a nose and observed her again, \u201cYou want my advice about what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAbout where I stand with regard to my mother\u2019s crimes. \u00a0 You see, Mr Woods, I had an encounter in the sheriff\u2019s office with a man who accused me of crimes I have not committed, and although he was considerate and generous enough to accept my protestations, there could be others who may not be\u2026\u201d \u00a0she put the box on the table and drew in a deep breath which she exhaled slowly \u201cThese are all the jewels that my mother owned. \u00a0 I don\u2019t know where she got them, although she would claim that she had inherited them or that my father gave her them as gifts. \u00a0 I wondered if \u2026\u201d she paused and frowned \u201cperhaps in her journals she may have mentioned them and to whom they originally belonged so that restitution could be made to the true owners.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Woods smiled, although he hid it well beneath his hand which he had brought to his face to stroke his beard.\u00a0 He nodded \u201cThere are some references to jewellery, your mother\u2019s journals were very accurate to a degree that I find truly remarkable.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have only kept the ring my fiance gave me upon our engagement, and some jewellery my father gave me.\u00a0 But if you could please deal with it all, I would be most grateful.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut some of it\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I want nothing that belonged to her.\u00a0 I want to be totally absolved from the whole matter, from anything that had to do with her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat is why you changed your name when you came here?\u201d \u00a0he peered at her over the rim of his glasses and then paused when the door opened and the clerk came in with a tray laden with coffee which he set down upon a side table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once there were cups of coffee placed on the desk for their convenience the clerk disappeared as silently as he had arrived.\u00a0 Hiram nodded and looked seriously at her,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy did you come here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed, \u201cIt seems everyone asks that same question, sir, and I can only reply as I have before and that is – to be honest – that without my mothers dictating my life I suddenly found myself unsure of what to do, responsible for my own decisions, something I was never allowed to do, not even – \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn connection to your daughter?\u201d his voice was kindly and instantly tears sprung to her eyes which she attempted to blink away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot even then, especially not then.\u00a0 Even my father was agreeable to what my mother suggested, he said \u00a0that being Alice\u2019s Aunt meant I still had contact with her, but \u2026but it isn\u2019t the same\u2026\u201d she pulled out a handkerchief and dabbed at her eyes<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow then, my dear, drink your coffee while it is still hot. \u00a0 Then we shall discuss this matter a little more.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Katherine stared at the cup, a very pretty Japanese lacquered design on delicate porcelain, she was almost afraid to pick it up as her hand was shaking so much.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo you came here because you felt you could hide among the people or because of some other reason..perhaps to do with the Cartwrights?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stared still at the cup and then frowned \u201cIt was a stupid thing to do, I know that now.\u00a0 At the time when I was casting around in my mind where to go, it seemed the best place to be, because, odd as it may seem, there was a tenuous link with that family.\u00a0 I was at the trial of Joseph Cartwright, and I saw the kindness and big heartedness of those men, supporting him despite anything.\u00a0 I just thought that if they could overlook the matter of – what happened with Sofia – they may help me, oh, I don\u2019t know what I\u2019m saying now, it is just that at the time it all fell into place, made sense.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded \u201cA tenuous link is better than none at all I should imagine.\u00a0 A young woman like yourself should not be cast adrift in a world such as this \u2026 and your own sister and her husband would not help?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI spent months with them and was treated like a servant. My daughter doesn\u2019t know me, she calls me Aunt as though addressing a beggar, a cast off from society.\u00a0 I dread to think of what my sister has told her about me\u2026\u201d she paused \u201cMy sister is a lot like my mother in many respects\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I gathered that from the journals, she was often your mother\u2019s confidante\u2026\u201d he paused \u201cYou did not know that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I suspected it but did not want to know it for certain.\u00a0 I am not surprised\u2026\u201d she paused \u201cI need to take my daughter from that environment before Emily corrupts her entirely.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid you sign any adoption papers? \u00a0 I saw no mention of that in your mother\u2019s journals?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, there was nothing signed, no paperwork, my mother said it was better to just hand Alice over and – and leave it to nature, after all, it was among sisters, or as she said, kept in the family.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her tone was bitter, and her lips, although they trembled, were thin with anger. \u201cHad I married then Alice would have had a most loving father, and she would have been kept safe from anything that could have harmed her\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The coffee had cooled, she drank it quickly and set the cup down carefully upon the saucer then looked at him. \u00a0\u201cWhat should I do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He leaned back in his chair and once again stroked his beard of which he was rather proud, his eyes observed her again with consideration and then he gave a thin smile,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou must do what you feel is right for you.\u00a0 I shall certainly do what I can to contact the wronged people referred to in these journals and make restitution as best as one can.\u00a0 As for your change of name..I think you feel more comfortable already with the name of your choice, Elizabeth Godfrey, am I correct?\u201d \u00a0when she nodded he continued \u201cThere is no need to draw up a legal Change of Name Deed, a person is known by the name by which they are known\u2026if that makes sense. \u00a0 Many people are known by a certain name to the extent that they forget their original names\u2026I hope you can do the same, Miss Godfrey, although somehow I doubt if you will ever forget your history, although I wish you a better and happier furture.,\u201d he paused and smiled slowly \u201cBut, of course, if you prefer things to be water tight, in a legal manner, then I can get a deed drawn up this morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stood up and nodded, extended her hand and thanked him, \u201cIs that all, Miss Godfrey?\u00a0 Is there not anything else you would want to ask me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWith regard to what?\u201d \u00a0she said, puzzled and somewhat anxious.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAbout your daughter?\u00a0 Do you not want some advice about how to get her home to her real mother?\u201d \u00a0 he smiled kindly and after a moment while she absorbed what he had said she nodded, smiled, and agreed that yes, it was time for her daughter to know her true mother.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 47<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It seemed to Olivia that upon consideration of her discussion with Sofia that she should muster up the courage and face the woman whom she considered her Nemesis. Having mentioned her intentions to Adam, thereby forcing her own hand so to speak, Olivia took the children into school, deposited Nathaniel with Bridie, and then made her way to the library.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben and Sofia had been more than pleased to have their Mother take them to school, for this had become somewhat of a rarity as Olivia’s day started early and life was busy for her even though she was not responsible in any way to the running of the ranch. Nathaniel was not do pleased when the buggy turned away from the direction he knew would be taking them to see Hannah and Hope or even Daniel. He bawled and protested until Olivia assured him of a special treat once they were in town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Being left at Bridie’s was not the treat he had in mind so he bawled some more although he had been very happy to wave his brother and sister off when they ran into school. Olivia felt a twinge of anxiety as she left him and the door closed upon the sight of her son being coaxed into silence by the patient Doctors wife. But it was only anxiety piled on the previous anxiety for as she approached the library it felt like a million butterflies had been let loose in her stomach.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale was more than pleased to see one of the Mrs Cartwrights’ present and rather regretted that there were so many other customers browsing among the bookshelves or demanding attention from her or her assistant whom Olivia was unable to see as Miss Godfrey was in another section of the building.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was obviously inconvenient. Miss Tyndale became flustered when she asked if it were possible to speak in private to Miss Godfrey so she just smiled and said she would return later.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once outside the building she wondered if this were not a God given opportunity to forget the whole thing but then realised that were she to abandon her purpose she would still have to go back and explain to her husband that she had given into her fears and left Miss Godfrey to the fates! For a while she stood there and dithered then decided that returning now to Bridie’s and her son would create further problems later when she would have to leave him again. Instead she strolled to Miss Ridleys Ladies Emporium and dallied for a while there. When she finally left she carried a pretty oyster coloured bag containing some rather attractive and decidedly racy underwear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale greeted her with a smile and an apology as she explained that Miss Godfrey was no longer available for the next hour as she had an appointment with Mr Woods, the lawyer. “Very secretive is our Miss Godfrey,” Miss Tyndale said slowly, thoughtfully, and then, as though she felt honour bound to speak well of the absent employee, she straightened her shoulders and said brightly \u00a0“but a very efficient worker and pleasant young woman.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded as though to emphasise the positives in case Mrs Cartwright got the wrong impression of Miss Gregory, after all, not many young ladies went to spend an hour closeted with a lawyer of Mr Woods standing, did they?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Alyssia Colby was weaving her way along the sidewalk with her little infant asleep in a very expensive perambulator …all the way from New York … And paused to spend a while chatting to her, the conversation revolving around the upcoming event at the weekend, the Meeting about Women’s Suffrage<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“I personally feel it very irresponsible of any woman with young children to raise to get involved in meetings of this kind, don’t you, Mrs Cartwright. But then of course you probably disagree with me about at as your sister in law is taking quite a prominent part in the proceedings I believe?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia succeeded to pushing down both her irritation and annoyance at this unjustified attack on Mary Ann’s character, she smiled, rather tight lipped, and nodded saying only “To each their own, Mrs Colby.” and then strode away leaving Alyssia standing with her mouth open and looking totally confused. With a toss of her head she soon regained her poise and continued onwards.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy Garston was the next to stop Olivia and with a simpering smile enquired into the well being of almost every Cartwright on the Ponderosa who wasn’t in diapers or at school. Without waiting for any reply to her enquiries she continued with the disclosure that she and Peggy had decided that Mary Ann had too many distractions to be truly committed to the ’cause’ and that she, herself, Lucy Garston, was going to assist Peggy at the forthcoming Meeting. “I am,” she declared resting her hand rather theatrically upon her chest “totally committed to the cause. My speech is totally and absolutely the most profound deliberation of the subject you will ever hear.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia thought of the many sermons Mr Garston had delivered and wondered if his daughters abilities were equally as boring and ponderous, in which case she pitied Peggy and the audience who no doubt would have among their number many who dozed off regularly during the church sermons. She extricated herself from Lucy’s companionship by assuring her she would be giving her and her sermon her closest attention and as she hurried away she could hear Lucy saying rather plaintively “But it isn’t a sermon, Mrs Cartwright, it’s far more important than a sermon,”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia now found \u00a0that as soon as her thoughts had switched from this meeting with Katherine to considering how Mary Ann would be feeling upon being replaced by Lucy, she lost track of where her feet were taking her. \u00a0 She was so engrossed with the matter that it wasn’t until she found herself on the sidewalk outside the Bucket of Blood that she realised she had strayed off course and needed to retrace her footsteps.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The bar keeps broom was sweeping away the debris from the floor of the saloon and she stepped aside quickly in order not to be swept up along with it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Morning, Missus Cartwright.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A bright cheerful countenance at last, she smiled, nodded and wished him a good morning before turning to locate her destination. The offices of Hiram Woods…and she just caught a glimpse of Grant Tombs leaving the premises with some mail in his hand obviously on the way to the Mail Depot.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Alyssia pushed the perambulator along with a determined look on her face as she noticed Elizabeth Godfrey closing the door of the lawyers office behind her. She waved and called a greeting which the other young woman received with a rather defeatist feeling as the last person she wanted to see was the young doctors wife.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Miss Godfrey, ” Alyssia beamed at her erstwhile friend “Where have you been hiding yourself? I had hoped that by now you would have come to call on me at least once! Surely Miss Tyndale is not such a dragon that she forces you to work day and night in that wretched library of hers?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She laughed, a tinkling laugh that made the other woman’s teeth go on edge, but Elizabeth as she was known to Alyssia, smiled and apologised and then ducked down to look at the baby to exclaim to the proud mother what a handsome child he was…<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“He resembles James, that’s where he has got his good looks”. Alyssia beamed in delight “And I heard that you looked beautiful at the dance on Saturday. Lucy told me that you were with that Abel Greigson…what a catch, my dear …he is hardly ever in town and for you to actually have him as your escort…my goodness, how did you snare him?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth forced a laugh “oh I rather think he snared me…but don’t ask me how as I really don’t know…”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Well he is quite the mystery man I can tell you, and …” She paused at the sight of the woman walking towards them, “0h Mrs Cartwright, we meet again..” she turned to Elizabeth “Elizabeth, this is Mrs Olivia Cartwright….Olivia, may I Introduce Miss Elizabeth Godfrey to you?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both women slightly recoiled at this impromptu but opportune introduction. If Elizabeth thought the last person she wanted to meet was Alyssia she was wrong. She had no intentions of seeking out Olivia Cartwright, not now, not when her head was reeling with things to plan and arrange. Olivia was also caught by surprise but unlike Elizabeth she was done what grateful for the meeting as she had no clear idea what this woman looked like which had led her to seeking her out at her place of employment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was Olivia who smiled and nodded a greeting “Good morning, I was hoping to meet you today.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“You were?” Elizabeth stammered with her eyes fixed on Olivia’s face and feeling the colour rush up into her cheeks<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Perhaps we could go somewhere more private -” Olivia suggested glancing at Alyssia with such an obvious look on her face that the younger woman had no option but to smile, bid them both good day and take herself, her perambulator and the baby somewhere else.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia and Elizabeth watched her leave and then turned to face one another. Olivia, the elder of the two was also the taller. She had a natural dignity about her that Elizabeth lacked but would one day gain. They were both blondes but Elizabeth more golden blonde whereas Olivia had the unique milky white silver inherited from a distant Slav ancestress. They could both acknowledge the attractiveness of the other as they stood there in silence for some moments.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was Elizabeth who broke the silence “Thank you for not addressing me as Katherine.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia smiled “That would have been unkind, and I don’t wish to treat you unkindly.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“No?” The younger woman frowned then glanced across the road to the Internationale “Shall we go and have a private word over a cup of coffee?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded and together the two women made their way to the hotel.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once seated with their coffee before them the two women eyed each other contemplatively, again Elizabeth spoke first<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“I am sorry. I truly am very sorry for what happened …with Sofia…I mean ..our intention when we found her was to save her life -”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“You did ..”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“But everything went wrong when we got to Bodie. The weather, the distance, lack of communication …everything went wrong and then … ” she looked into Olivia’s eyes and saw the pity there, no anger, just pity, ” you do understand, don’t you.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Adam explained as best he could about the situation. He knows how bad the weather was…how hard it was to send any form of communication, after all, he went looking for her…I wondered at times if I would lose my husband as well as my daughter.” she paused then picked up her cup to drink some of the coffee, then replaced it, slowly.<\/p>\n

“What I couldn’t understand was why you insisted on changing her name, trying to stop her remembering who she really was. You took advantage of her vulnerability to twist her memories into someone she was not.” Olivia shook her head, stared at the other woman for a moment, forcing Elizabeth to lower her own eyes as she succumbed to the anger she saw on Olivia’s face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“She was so ill, her memories were so jumbled and – and in the time I cared for her through that illness I grew so fond of her\u201d \u00a0she sighed, and kept her eyes fixed to her hands that were clasped in the lap of her skirt beneath the table. \u00a0 After a pause that lasted far too long she looked up to see Olivia still looking at her with a calm composed face.\u00a0 Steeling herself, she said \u201cYou know, don’t you, that I have a daughter?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded “Even so, that is no excuse nor reason for what you did …”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“You’re right, of course. I know that, but at the time I could not see her ever getting home to wherever she came from. You have to understand, Mrs Cartwright, that ..”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“No, you have to understand, Miss Royale, you put us through the most terrible ordeal. It was agonising wondering where she was, praying that she was safe, longing to get her home. You had no right to do what you were doing to her, you never even tried to return her home, you gave no thought to how we were suffering.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was silence once again as Olivia struggled to control her feelings which she realised were running away with her now she that had the opportunity to vent them on the woman she blamed for causing so much pain to her and her family. Katherine gripped her hands together beneath the table do tightly that her nails dug into the flesh as she struggled to find the right words that would calm Olivia.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“Mrs Cartwright, I seem to have done nothing but try to explain what happened and why to various different people, including your husband. You fail to see…”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“No, Miss Royale, you fail to understand that. ..”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“You have no idea what it was like, Mrs Cartwright… No idea at all. My daughter was taken from me when a few days old. I have never held her in my arms since, nor has she turned to me and spoken kindly to me. When your daughter reached out to me for comfort, and I held her in my arms, I – I just wanted to be loved by her, to love her…”<\/p>\n

She stared down at the table and gulped down air “you suffered a few weeks of what I Suffer every day, knowing my own daughter has no idea of the truth, that I’m her mother, that I need her in my life and ..”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia stood up slowly and moved away from the table, paused to look down at the younger woman “Then what, may I ask, are you doing here? If you were any kind of mother you should go and get your daughter and make a home for yourselves instead of being here talking about her.” she leaned towards her “Don’t think I do not sympathise, I do … But you are failing her and yourself if you just stay here and do nothing to get her back.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With one last look at the woman who had kept Sofia from her, Olivia left the room with a straight back and her head held high. Katherine, now known as Elizabeth, watched her go, saw the doors close behind her, and pulled out a handkerchief with which she dabbed her eyes dry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She still sat there, watching the doors that had closed behind Olivia.\u00a0 It struck her as fateful that within an hour two people had told her to do the same thing, to go and claim back her daughter.\u00a0 And she knew they were right.\u00a0 She knew it because she had felt the need to do just that for so long now that she could not believe she come all this way without Alice by her side. \u00a0 It was fear of Emily who seemed the Nemesis she had to confront, Emily who was so like their mother that it was as though they were cast from the same mould.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She drank her coffee slowly, then set down the cup upon its saucer and stood up.\u00a0 Of course, there was only one thing she could do now\u2026call it fate, call it Kismet, but the time had come to face her worst nightmare.\u00a0 Not Emily, but Alice – and if her daughter rejected her, she knew she had only herself to blame.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 48<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They say eavesdroppers never hear anything good about themselves, and in some ways Peggy believed that to be true. As she rode into town she thought over the snatches of conversation she had overheard between Hester and Ben as they had sat together on the porch, not realising how their voices had floated up through the open window of Peggy\u2019s room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She replayed what she had heard through her mind now as she rode without seeing anything but trusting in the horse to know where it had to go. Ben\u2019s deep voice murmuring that Mary Ann had decided not to speak at the meeting and then Hester saying how she had decided not to even attend at all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHas she let Peggy know?\u201d Ben had said and Peggy could imagine his face, the concern for herself, the fact that Mary Ann had acted with impropriety to their guest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe did write to her.\u201d Hester had replied matter of factly, and there had come the sound of a cup being replaced into its saucer, Erik chattering and Hester\u2019s voice now whispering endearments to the child.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad, in a way, to be honest.\u201d Ben had then said, \u201cI didn\u2019t like the idea of Mary Ann being involved.\u201d a pause, Peggy could imagine the smug look of agreement on Hester\u2019s face, then Ben continued \u201cI agree with Peggy in that a lot of things need to be changed with regard to how women are treated in this country\u2026well, all over the world really. Looking at it purely from a mercenary point of view I would object most strongly if anything happened to Hoss and you remarried and your new husband claimed Hoss\u2019 share of the Ponderosa for his own\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh that couldn\u2019t happen, surely?\u201d Hester had sounded shocked, and Peggy had shaken her head in disbelief at the woman\u2019s naivete, \u201cAnyway, it wouldn\u2019t because I would never re-marry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHmm,\u201d Ben had muttered \u201cThe thing is it happens to other women, and worse. Things do need to change and no matter what Peggy thinks, I am not entirely against this cause for suffrage, I doubt if any fair minded man would be but -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut?\u201d Hester had prompted<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut it will take time to make those changes and I think Peggy and a lot of women are rushing things a bit, they want change now, and hard as it seems, it just isn\u2019t going to change without a lot of heart ache. The more aggressive they are about the issues they bring up, the longer it will take.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt is the aggression I dislike so much.\u201d Hester had agreed and then her voice was mumbled as she spoke to her little boy, the rattle of chinaware, the clink of a spoon upon a saucer. \u201cSuffrage is a good cause, and Peggy is wrong to think we are all against her, it is just – not the time for all the changes now. But there will be a time, I am sure of that, now that there has been a start in recognising the issues involved, it will gather momentum, won\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI worry about Peggy.\u201d Ben then had said after a pause of some moments just when Peggy had turned aside to pick up her purse and thinking that she had wronged Hester in assuming her to feel only antipathy towards the suffrage cause.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow do you mean?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s what you said earlier, Hester, the aggression \u2026not with regard to the cause, but in connection with Peggy. I just wish I could get her to return to that mischievous happy young woman who came here several years back. That was before she went to Switzerland of course\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was silence now and Peggy had frozen to the spot, then had approached the window to listen more closely as the couple remained on the porch unaware of the listener above their heads.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSomething has happened to her, changed her \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI got the impression from how you spoke about her that she was always a rather volatile child, always angry -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not always.\u201d Ben\u2019s voice had softened, Peggy could almost see his face gentling, his eyes drifting backwards with memories but it hurt that she had been considered an almost always angry child. \u201cJust a confused unhappy little girl after her father died. Frank adored Peggy, and she naturally loved her father – and then he was killed in that ridiculous accident. If he had not been drinking so much then perhaps it would not have happened but it did, one can\u2019t turn back the clock -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Another long pause and Erik now was chattering and attention was turned to him, until Ben started talking again \u201cWhen Peggy came some years ago she was happy and relaxed, made Joe a whole lot better in himself too\u2026. No, something has changed Peggy since then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps getting so involved with this suffrage business?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps, but I\u2019m not so sure it is.\u201d Ben had sighed then and there were the sounds of his getting out of his chair now, scuffling sounds on the porch floor boards, \u201cI remember saying to Adam – that time he was courting Laura – no, I asked him if he loved her, or was it because he wanted a family of his own. He loved Peggy you know, I sometimes thought he loved her more than he loved Laura and that, of course, would have been a recipe for disaster.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess it was a good thing Will was on the scene at the time \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, a blessing in disguise. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Footsteps \u2026 and then only Erik and Hester\u2019s voices were heard and Peggy had hurried out of her room, ran down the stairs and left the house with as much courtesy as she could muster.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann had indeed sent her a little note and it was still on the night stand where Peggy had left it. It was short, sweet and simple, but honest in stating that anyone with divided loyalties was worse than someone with none at all. Peggy accepted that and in some way was relieved. She had set the note down and put her mind to thinking of another replacement, one who had something that Mary Ann had lacked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhoa there\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The man\u2019s voice snapped Peggy out of her contemplation and she drew the horse up at once, then recognised Abel Greigson reaching out to wards the horse as though to prevent it going any further.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re on Ponderosa land,\u201d she snapped immediately and Abel had laughed<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, little lady, but I\u2019m not. You may not have noticed but you happen to be on a public highway now, just a few miles from town. But as you seemed half asleep -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was not!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt looked as though you were.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I was not -\u201d Peggy scowled and looked at him again, smiling at her, his eyes crinkled in laughter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou nearly ran me down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou shouldn\u2019t have been in the way.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was not.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou must have been otherwise -\u201d she paused as he began to laugh, dropped his hand from the intention he had had of grabbing at her horse\u2019s bridle \u201cI\u2019m sorry. You\u2019re right. I wasn\u2019t concentrating.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019ll forgive you this time.\u201d Abel replied and moved his horse closer to her, his eyes now more serious as he looked into her face, \u201cIs everything alright with you, Miss Dayton?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, everything\u2019s just fine.\u201d she snapped, and hardened her voice. It seemed to her typical that give a man an inch and they would take a yard. \u201cExcuse me, I have business in town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy apologies\u2026\u201d he had removed his hat but now, as he backed his horse away from her, he replaced it. \u201cSee you on Saturday then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSaturday?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAt your Meeting\u2026\u201d he grinned, as though even saying the words made him want to laugh \u201cG\u2019day to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t move but listened as the sound of his horse drifted away. He was going to be at the Meeting on Saturday? She shook her head, the thought of him being in the audience made her feel something like panic in the pit of her stomach and it took some seconds for her to control the feeling and urge the horse onwards to town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was Wednesday. Abel Greigson had an appointment to keep with a certain Librarians\u2019 Assistant and with a smile on his lips he hastened the horse towards the designated location.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Peggy neared the first houses of the town her thoughts left Abel Greigson and returned to Ben\u2019s comments about Adam and Laura, and in some way it brought a warmth to her heart to know that Adam had indeed loved her – and was she right in interpreting what Ben had said? Had Ben really intimated that Adam had loved her more than Laura? She dwelt on that for a second or two then decided that she would return to that matter later.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben had also intimated that something had happened when she was in Switzerland. She knew he was right, something had happened. But it was before she had gone to Switzerland, it was after her return to her home from that visit to Virginia City that Ben had referred to, when she had returned to Laura and Will.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She dismounted from the horse and tied the reins to the hitching rail outside the Garston\u2019s house. Lucy came out, a face wreathed in smiles, eyes twinkling as she approached her friend, then she stopped<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Mary Ann?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s decided not to come. She\u2019s not taking part -\u201d Peggy heard herself say as she tried to remove the cobwebs of her memories and settle down to the matter in hand now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, that\u2019s a shame.\u201d Lucy said rather insincerely and then looked at Peggy \u201cStill, I think we were both expecting that, weren\u2019t we?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded and then gave Lucy the benefit of one of her rare smiles \u201cI know just the person who would be perfect for what we need now. Someone the town knows and respects, someone who has lived here since she was a little girl, and someone who has influence because she\u2019s a prosperous businesswoman.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWith no husband?\u201d Lucy smiled although her eyes looked slightly confused .<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWith no husband.\u201d Peggy nodded and slipped her arm through Lucy\u2019s \u201cFirst of all though, let\u2019s check on the venue. I want to make sure there will be enough seats for everyone, and that the posters are already in place.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy nodded again and with a smile allowed her self to be whisked down the sidewalk to the hall where the meeting was scheduled to be hosted.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel Greigson lay on his back on the grass and surveyed the clouds as they skimmed overhead. The sky was blue and its reflection made the waters of the lake as blue, some birds flew overhead and on the lake swans were gliding by.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After some moments had passed he drew out his watch and checked the time. Elizabeth was now half an hour late. He replaced the watch and frowned, how like a woman he thought, and closed his eyes. It wasn\u2019t often he could slip away from the ranch, like this, but Elizabeth had been worth it. He would give her another half an hour and then, if she was not here, he would ride into town and find her, just in case something had happened \u2026 an accident of some kind, something more important, although he could not imagine anything could be more important than this moment in time.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Manager of the hall shook his head and waved his arms in the air. His face was going purple and veins were standing out in his neck and temples. What hair he possessed were standing on end as he exchanged angry words with the two women who stood in his office demanding to know why the hall was not available to them for the Meeting they had scheduled for Saturday.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI have every right to rent out the hall to whom I please.\u201d he yelled and thumped on the desk for good measure. \u201cI refuse to rent it out to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe fact of the matter is, Mr Higgins, that you did rent the hall out to us. We paid a deposit and you agreed to let us have possession of it from the hour of 2:00.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe I did then – \u201c he pulled out a drawer and withdrew some money which he slapped down onto the desk \u201cThere\u2019s your money. Take it or leave it, but whatever you choose to do, you won\u2019t have my hall for your meeting. Now – clear out – before I get the law onto you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh well, Mr Higgins as we are in the right, and you are in the wrong, I think that a very good idea.\u201d Peggy shrieked and ran to the office door, threw it open and shouted \u201cSome one – get the sheriff -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHold on there.\u201d HIggins yelled and grabbed at her arm, pulling her back into his office and slamming the door shut \u201cIf anyone\u2019s going to get the sheriff I will. You ain’t got no grievance with me, Miss Dayton. I simply double booked, that\u2019s what happened, and hadn\u2019t realised until a few days back. Now then, take your money.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy had never been in such a confrontation before, and looked from Higgins, who was one of her father\u2019s main associates in town and a regular church goer who provided a tidy sum in the contributions each Sunday, to her friend, Peggy, who was looking angrier than Mrs Garston had ever looked in her life<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think we should take the money, Peggy, and find somewhere else.\u201d she said quietly and tugged at Peggy\u2019s arm<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Higgins puffed out his chest \u201cYou won\u2019t find anywhere else.\u201d he slid the money towards Peggy and leaned forwards, his eyes narrowed into mean little slits \u201cNo one will want to hire out a hall to you and your sort.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy\u2019s lips thinned, if she had been alone with the man she would have punched him in the mouth, thrown the money at him, broken some windows\u2026 the anger she felt at this insult was stronger than she felt she could control so with a muffled cry of rage she fled from the room. Lucy collected the money and smiled politely at Higgins, (she was a Garston after all) and then hurried out after her friend.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do we do now?\u201d she asked Peggy who was standing in the middle of the sidewalk trying to calm herself, shaking with rage and with her hand on her heart in an attempt to slow it down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFollow me.\u201d Peggy said and marched forwards with a determination that gave Lucy a little confidence that her friend knew what she was doing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda Ridley looked up as her office door opened and Mrs Carstairs asked her if she had time to see Miss Peggy Dayton and Miss Lucy Garston on a matter of some urgency. Even before she had had time to nod, or shake her head, the two young ladies in question had brushed Mrs Carstairs aside and were standing in the room looking somewhat apprehensive but determined to be heard. Amanda nodded,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMrs Carstairs, could you make us some coffee please.\u201d was all she said as she stood up and walked round the desk to stand in front of the two women. She smiled, shook their hands and beckoned to two chairs \u201cPlease – sit down.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale looked up as the young man approached her. She could see from his demeanour that he had not come to ask her about books, and so steeled herself to answer anything she was asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He removed his hat and nodded at her, \u201cMa\u2019am, could you tell me if Miss Godfrey is here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale shook her head \u201cI\u2018m afraid she is not, Miss Godfrey has left my employment.\u201d she saw the puzzled look on his face and raised her eyebrows, removed her spectacles, \u201cMiss Godfrey has left town. She went this morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel said nothing but absorbed the information stoically. His first thought was that everything was all right, there had obviously been some emergency that had caused her to leave town and she had not just forgotten about him, their appointment, there had been a good reason. He drew in his breath and nodded \u201cWhen will she be back?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Tyndale replaced her spectacles and shook her head \u201cShe left very suddenly, I got the impression that she does not intend to come back. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure?\u201d he leaned in towards her and she stepped back a pace, grateful that the counter was between them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Godfrey made it quite clear to me that she would not be returning to Virginia City. She has personal matters that have to be dealt with -\u201d she looked at him and shook her head, He was obviously another distraction in the life of Miss Godfrey, and looked utterly confused, she felt sympathy for him and said, quite sincerely, \u201cI am sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid she say where she was going ?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, but I believe she used to live in Bodie. She may be going back there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBodie?\u201d he frowned, all he had heard of the place was bad, a place where gunslingers ruled and there was no law. \u201cAre you sure?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI only said she may be going back there\u2026 that\u2019s all I can tell you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded, apologised politely for disturbing her and then picked up his hat and walked away. He sighed and shook his head once he was outside the building. He looked up and down the street and sighed again. His heart had been touched, but not deeply enough for it to have been shattered at her departure. He glanced around him once again and after replacing his hat, made his way to the Bucket of Blood saloon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was hardly heart broken, disappointed certainly, but any excuse for a glass of whiskey without his father whining about the cost was an opportunity too good to waste.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 49<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel loved the horses and was quite fearless when he was near them. When Adam was in the stables or corral Nathaniel would climb up the rails of the stalls and then slide himself onto the broad back of whichever horse was in the stall and bounce about on it . Whichever horse it happened to be never appeared to mind, although the ears would twitch and it would flick its tail quite a little bit more than usual. Adam would eventually stroll over and give him a curry brush so he would gently begin to stroke it down the animals broad neck and chatter to it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The smells of a stable were all of a mix and mingle, some unpleasant and some sweet and conducive to drowsiness for a little boy. After a while he would clamber down from the horse in the same manner he had mounted her, clambering down the rails and then running over to Adam, curry brush in hand and then bend to stroke it down the legs of the animal Adam was attending to.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam would talk to him about the animals, teaching him about the beast in the most natural way possible, explaining where the animals withers were, its hock, its \u2018frog\u2019, all little scraps of information that the child absorbed without even realising it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Then, if Reuben were there, talk would turn to other subjects, matters that would be more interesting for the older boy, and Nathaniel would then find bales of hay to climb over, or scramble up to the hay loft, he was just big enough now to manage the ladder. He would run about up there and send straw dust and pieces of chaff drifting through the cracks in the floorboards to fall upon his father and brother\u2019s heads. If Sofia was there she would whine about it, \u2018You\u2019re spoiling my hair\u2019 \u2018Nathaniel, stop being naughty\u2019 all that kind of thing. But she was usually busy collecting eggs with Mother, or in the dairy working on shaping the butter and complaining about grease on her fingers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But this afternoon Nathaniel was sitting astride Sports broad back while Adam was whistling a tune and the little boy was pursing his lips and hoping to get some sounds from them when there came the sound of a horse trotting into the yard. Adam paused in his whistling, put his head to one side as though trying to decipher who was visiting, and then recommenced his whistling as he waited for the person to appear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A woman stepped into the stable and immediately Adam stopped whistling, and nodded,and acknowledged the visitor with one word \u201cPeggy..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stood there looking at him and then noticed Nathaniel, \u201cHello, Nathaniel. Are you helping Daddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy shook his head and said nothing; he stared at her and then looked at Adam who put down the cloth in his hand and walked towards Sports stall where the boy waited to be picked up. Adam swung him down and told him to go indoors and ask his mother to prepare for a visitor. \u201cTell Mommy we have a visitor.\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel gave Peggy a narrow eyed glance from his dark eyes and ran outside, the two adults watched him as he hurried over to the house and clambered onto the porch to disappear inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI came to apologise,\u201d Peggy said quietly, \u201cI should not have spoken to you the way that I did, and I am sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded and picked up another piece of rag upon which he wiped his hands, although he kept his eyes on her, appearing attentive as always. He was about to speak when Peggy continued \u201cI wanted to tell you something. Perhaps it is something you know already, but I was reminded about it earlier today and thought that you may be able to tell me more about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded again, glanced over at the house \u201cWould you prefer to go inside, Olivia would \u2026-\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLater.\u201d she replied and stepped closer, a frown on her brow and her lips puckered as though she was already going through in her mind what she had already rehearsed on the way to the house from town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVery well. Say what you have to say\u2026\u201d he smiled and leaned against the rails of the stall. Occasionally his old leg injury pained him more than usual, and today had been one of those days.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I came last time\u2026the time you went to Alaska I think, you were engaged to marry Barbara Scott?\u201d she looked at him challengingly but he didn\u2019t say anything nor nod or shake his head, just waited for her to continue \u201cAnyway, I went home as everyone expected, in order to go to the Finishing School in Switzerland. I told Will and my mother that I didn\u2019t want to go, instead I wanted them to come here, I mean to the Running D, to buy the ranch back and to settle into the life we had had before – before father was killed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam bit down on his bottom lip, but he said nothing to her and for a while there was just the silence hanging between them. Sport snorted and fidgeted in his stall, and a hoof from another horse struck against a wooden railing. Peggy tugged at the ribbon of her bonnet, feeling a little self conscious and wanting him to speak.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, mother was furious, she never wanted to go back.\u201d she frowned as though she could see herself in that grand sitting room confronting Will and her mother, the angry blue eyes and flushed cheeks of the still pretty woman and the calm placating face of the handsome man she had married. She could almost see a look of longing in Wills\u2019 eyes, the look of a man thinking of home and family, being near his Cartwright cousins, \u201cShe went through a whole list of reasons why we could never go back\u2026that included the education of myself and my brothers. But most of all it was because of all she had \u2018endured\u2019 during her marriage to my father, the memories of which, she said, still haunted her. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She twisted the ribbons of her bonnet through her fingers and sighed deeply, \u201cI – you – know how much I loved my father and he loved me. There were angry words exchanged between us, my accusing her of being hard hearted and \u2018frigid\u2019 was the word, and she flinging back words about father that were hateful and I thought then, untrue. I called her a liar, and then she flounced over to a bureau and pulled out an old letter from the drawer which she thrust at me. \u201cRead this for yourself then,\u201d she said, \u201cIt cost Adam Cartwright $500 but read it for yourself and see whether or not it was worth the money.\u201d\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stared at him then, and he nodded, remembering the woman in the buggy , the letter, the plan to snatch Peggy away so that she could join Frank and this woman far away from Nevada. He pursed his lips, and frowned then said in his deep calm voice \u201cWell, I thought she had destroyed that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no, anything of monetary value was kept safe where mother was concerned.\u201d she said contemptuously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy,” he paused and sighed, then reached out a hand to lightly touch her arm before dropping it back to fidget with the rag, “Peggy, can’t you just stop feeling so angry towards Laura. Whatever else, she is still your mother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His brown eyes looked into hers, a slight frown appeared on her brow but she only tightened her lips, a little button of petulant animosity. He shook his head and then tossed the rag to one side “Well? What? What else do you have to say?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy turned her back slightly now as though having to look at him made her feel uncomfortable, she stared out of the entrance of the stable to the yard and heard Adam move, restless, and no doubt, she thought, anxious to get away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTo her I am an inconvenience. I am Frank\u2019s daughter, nothing else.\u201d Peggy raised her chin, \u201cI\u2019m proud of being Frank\u2019s daughter, that was why I wanted her and Will to come back here to live. But she wouldn\u2019t hear of it\u2026.\u201d she bowed her head \u201cShe said that if it hadn\u2019t been for you dealing with that woman and paying her off, she would have been glad to have had Frank\u2019s scheme work out, that it was a pity it hadn\u2019t, then perhaps I would have realised what kind of man he really was, and the kind of woman I would have had for a step mother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She drew in her breath, \u201cAs usual there was always someone else to blame for the things that went wrong in her life\u2026.and you were often quoted as the cause of all manner of wrongs, along with Father of course.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam dismissed that comment with the contempt it deserved, he sighed again and shook his head \u201cYour father loved you and wanted you to be with him when he left Laura. That surely works in his favour\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course it does and I wish with all my heart that I had been able to go with him, instead of \u2026of waiting for him to come home, which he never did again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Peggy, at the time the woman came with that letter, you were still struggling with your feelings for your father, and your mother was truly heart broken at the fact that you were so sad and so angry. Your mother\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother never loved my father, and she made him know it \u2026 I was the result of what she referred to as rape. That\u2019s it, in a nutshell.\u201d she heaved in a deep breath and when he came and stood close to her, she felt the sting of tears in her eyes, \u201cShe hated me as much as I hated her but when I had got so I could love her, when she was happy with you, and I loved you and thought you were going to be my father, she betrayed me again. She married Will.\u201d she bowed her head and when he put a hand on her arm, she gripped hold of his fingers \u201cI loved you, Adam, I wanted you to be my father. I know you loved me too, I know you did\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, true enough.\u201d he nodded, agreed and put an arm around her shoulders and gave her a hug, drawing her close to him so that she clung to him, and wept.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel ran into the stable and stopped, looked up at them and frowned \u201cDaddy, you come in now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure, son, we\u2019re just coming.\u201d Adam said quietly and pushed the young woman away with a determination that indicated that was sufficient contact between them and it was now over.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy didn\u2019t you fight to keep her, Adam? Why did you let her go?\u201d she whispered, wiping her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause I knew I didn\u2019t love her, not the way Will did, it would have put her in the same situation – well, a similar situation – that she had been with Frank. And you would not have been happy having to live in an environment like that, Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI would have been, Adam. I would have been if I had been with you\u2026\u201d she cried, her eyes large and pleading to him to understand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He did understand, only too well, but he shook his head and picked his son up into his arms, \u201cNo, it would have been miserable, Peggy, for everyone. You may even have been happier with your father and that woman -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She dabbed at her cheeks now with the handkerchief and instead of following him to the door she remained standing where she was, then in her usual stubborn manner said \u201cI met that woman.\u201d she spoke quietly, \u201cSome years later when I was in college. She looked out for me, asked me if I were Frank Dayton’s daughter, from Virginia City way. She\u2019s made something of herself now, she\u2019s intelligent and she\u2019s prosperous. She lives in Brooklyn, and gave a lecture at the college. It was her that brought my attention to Women and Suffrage. Her name is Dorothy, Dorothy Weston.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded and walked out into the yard with Nathaniel in his arms and this time Peggy trailed along behind him, he half turned towards her \u201cSo that\u2019s why you got involved with the movement, because of the connection with this woman and your father?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPartly, but mainly because I agree with it.\u201d she blew her nose, adjusted her hair and drew in her breath, \u201cShe told me about my father, what a wonderful man he was, how much she had loved him. She was everything my mother was not\u2026and she made him happy, you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure she did, Peggy.\u201d he put Nathaniel down and smiled at him, nodded and watched the little boy turn and run into the house, then he looked at Peggy \u201cMy dear, you have to start living your life now, stop being that 8 year old angry little girl, grow up, be yourself, be Peggy Dayton as your father would wish you to be\u2026.don\u2019t live your life trapped inside yourself, living your life as an angry confused 8 year old. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She frowned and was about to speak when the door opened and Olivia was there, smiling down at them both, extending a hand to this young woman who years ago could have had the same claims on her husband as Sofia had now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHello Peggy, come on in\u2026.I was wondering when you would get around to paying us a visit.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Peggy entered the house Olivia flicked a glance at Adam, saw nothing but a blank composed look on his face, and then followed Peggy inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Talk turned to the planned meeting on Saturday while Olivia deftly prepared coffee and handed out cups and plates and sliced up cake, and gave Nathaniel some toys with which to play. A completely calm and collected young woman, nothing like the blubbering mess in the stable, told them about the disaster of finding the hall cancelled. Of Mr Higgins double cross, and how Miss Ridley had stepped in to save the day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat will be interesting.\u201d Olivia said dryly, \u201cSo will the Meeting go ahead?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, definitely. Miss Ridley has organised it all very well. She is a true Suffragette, you know, and the Meeting will go ahead, as planned, on time, in Virginia City on Saturday afternoon.\u201d she leaned back in the chair, and smiled, sipped her coffee and nibbled her cake, and for a moment Olivia was reminded of a little pussy cat who had really got her cake and had cream with it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMary Ann -\u201d Olivia started to say but Peggy frowned, looked remorseful and then shook her head,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMary Ann has resigned, she won\u2019t be coming. With Joe having injured himself she doesn\u2019t feel it right to attend.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, what will you do?\u201d Olivia asked and then remembered Lucy Garston\u2019s triumphant little smile, \u201cOh of course, Lucy\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLucy and Miss Ridley will rally round. It is a pity Mary Ann can’t even attend though, but it\u2019s her choice. Better to come willingly than not\u2026 \u201c she glanced over at Adam who had sat drinking coffee and silent throughout the conversation \u201cYou will both be there, won\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia looked thoughtful and then looked at Adam who said he would have to be as the sheriff had asked him and Hoss to act as deputies. Peggy looked affronted, and shook her head,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSurely there\u2019s no need for you to be deputies, it is not going to be one of those rowdy meetings, it is just going to be a series of talks about the rights for women to have the vote.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia sighed and shook her head, \u201cIt seems to me that you don\u2019t realise, Peggy, that some women, and most men, couldn\u2019t care less about votes for women.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen they need to be put on notice that women should have that right.\u201d she put down her cup so forcibly that Olivia winced, imagining it cracking \u201cMen are voting in men who are totally unsuitable for the privilege of the seat they take up\u2026.if women had the vote then there would be a fairer representation of what everyone needs and wants, not just the needs and wants of a proportion of the population\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood up, raised his hands \u201cPlease, Peggy, if you don\u2019t mind\u2026 save it for Saturday.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He leaned over and kissed his wife on the brow, \u201cI have to get going, there\u2019s work to do and I\u2019m late already.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia stood up and walked her husband to the door, there was no need of words, she handed him his hat and kissed him again, then watched him as he strode out back to the stables to saddle up Kami.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy was standing by the hearth looking at the pictures on the console table and she smiled over at Olivia \u201cLovely pictures, Olivia. Who is this gentleman?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia looked at the picture of Robert that Peggy held in her hand, and smiled. She stood beside the girl, could smell her and feel the warmth of her body, she took the picture from her and looked down at the face smiling up at her \u201cRobert, my first husband. He was a good man, from San Francisco.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReuben and Sofia\u2019s father?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d she replaced the picture and continued to smile down at it, a smile of fond memories and affection.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a happy marriage?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVery much so. It broke my heart when he died.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen you met Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, totally by accident in a park on a very cold January morning. He was waiting orders for his next assignment out, and I was trying to keep my children occupied. Then I moved back to the Double D, where I had been raised. I wanted my children to have the security and peace of living here\u2026.\u201d she turned with a sigh and took her seat, picked up the coffee pot and poured out more into their cups. \u201cMore cake?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, thank you.\u201d Peggy did take the cup of coffee and added some sugar, \u201cIt seems strange to me being here now, there was a time when I would have been in Sofia\u2019s position..having Adam as my father\u2026step-father I mean.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSofia never knew her own father, he died before she was born.\u201d Olivia replied, and smiled over at Peggy, \u201cAdam is the only father she has ever known.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded, and lowered her head so that Olivia wouldn\u2019t see the tears in her eyes, she blinked rapidly, it was silly, immature, to be jealous of a little girl, but she was.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 50<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia sat back with her cup and saucer in her hand and watched Peggy for a moment or two. Then she leaned forward to get the younger woman\u2019s attention,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou loved your father very much, didn\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy was surprised at the question, then realised that if she were to ask personal questions of Olivia then she had every right to ask such of her, she nodded<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I loved him. For eight years he was everything to me\u2026\u201d she paused and sipped some coffee before looking back at Olivia \u201cI suppose Adam has told you all about how hateful I was to my mother? Told you the whole sorry story\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia noted the slightly bitter tone of voice and knew better than to deny any knowledge of Peggy\u2019s family history so she nodded \u201cHe has told me some things, how devoted you and your father – Frank? – were and the misery his death caused you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded, and her face mirrored the bleakness of feeling that overshadowed her then at the memory. \u201cI don\u2019t think I will ever forget the day we were told that he had died. I thought my world had come to an end\u2026.\u201d she glanced at the other woman and a little frown creased her brow \u201cYou must have felt the same, when you were told about your husband, that he had died and no matter how much you wished and prayed and longed for things to be different, you knew nothing could change the way things were going to be\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, yes, I felt all those feelings and no one can imagine or put into words how it feels.\u201d Olivia heaved in a deep sigh,she leaned back into the chair and for a heart beat of time remembered those days, shock filled, lonely miserable days, \u201cReuben was barely three years old and constantly asking where his father was, when he was going to come home – and I was expecting Sofia, our second child\u2026and knowing that she would not know her lovely daddy. Oh, yes, it was hard, harder than anything else that had ever happened to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut you were all right, weren\u2019t you? You came through -\u201d Peggy watched the shadows passing over the other woman’s face, the gleam of what could be tears in her eyes which she blinked hastily away. The pain of re-visiting such memories obvious in the way her breathing had changed, becoming shallower, faster. Olivia lowered her eyes and then said,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCame through? What a strange expression?\u201d she leaned back and observed the other woman with a cynical smile, her eyes darkened, \u201cI didn\u2019t know what to do, I think my whole being – my thinking, feeling, oh just about everything just shut down. I was very ill, even for months after Sofia was born. I just slipped down into a well of self pity and misery \u2026” she paused and a little furrow creased her brow, then she nodded as though to herself, as though telling herself that now was not the time to sink back into those black memories, she looked up at Peggy then and continued speaking “It was thinking about Reuben and trying to help him handle his father\u2019s death that finally wrenched me back to life.\u201d she sighed and set the cup and saucer down on the tray, \u201cIf it had not been for him I would willingly have died, even during child birth – perhaps then would have been the best time to have just – you know – just let go of everything and gone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy blinked and swallowed hard, she felt embarrassed, no one had spoken to her about their own grief so openly before, and she was unsure of what to say next. She glanced over to the pictures on the bureau and Olivia watched her face, the way the eyes roved over the pictures, the way shadows formed as emotions passed through her mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour mother must have suffered too\u2026\u201d Olivia said quietly<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother?\u201d Peggy frowned, and then gave a rather cold, stiff shrug, \u201cMy mother was too glad to be rid of him. She hated him -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNevertheless, she was your mother, she had had his child \u2026it does create a bond, you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not with her. She loathed him, she never let him get near her after the first time, and even then she had the misfortune to conceive me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe must have found that something of a relief, if her life was so loveless, to have a baby to care for, to love\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot really.\u201d Peggy replied quietly and glanced away to where a basket laden with knitting wool caught her attention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe must have loved you, Peggy?\u201d Olivia voice was gentle, coaxing. Peggy felt an overwhelming desire to tell her to stop talking, but at the same time the words were probing, and making her think, and to remember a woman who had laughed, and who had nursed her and gazed down at her with blue eyes often bright with – perhaps – tears. Almost involuntarily she nodded,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, she did love me. But my father loved me more\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI doubt that, Peggy. He may have shown you more love, demonstrated it in a way you would have enjoyed more\u2026 perhaps as a result pushed your mother more and more into the background so that, just perhaps, you didn\u2019t notice just how much she loved you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy\u2019s eyes widened, dilated, she shivered and wriggled a little in her chair. She was grateful when Nathaniel ran in and created some distraction. He ran to Olivia with wide smiles and his hands cupped so that he could show them an egg he had found, and Olivia praised him for being such a clever boy, and told him to take it into the kitchen for Cheng who was waiting for just that very egg. With a blush of pride Nathaniel walked almost on tiptoe to make sure he didn\u2019t drop his precious cargo, and as he left Peggy watched, her own face softening, a slight smile on her lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For a few moments neither woman spoke, Olivia seemed unaware of the passing of time, Peggy was lost in memories of a different time\u2026then she sighed \u201cI grew to hate her, everything she did, the way she spoke, the way she was so pathetic when father was there\u2026.\u201d she closed her eyes and leaned back in the chair \u201cI wish I could show you just how it was \u2026father was such a big personality, so noisy, he filled the room and he laughed a lot, always playful with me, always having presents for me and telling me he loved me. My mother – \u201c she frowned, \u201cshe just cringed from the moment he stepped into the room, cringed and whined and crept around the house as though she didn\u2019t want him to notice her. Father said how she didn\u2019t really love me, not like he did, he would say how one day he would take me away with him, somewhere beautiful where we could be happy together\u2026\u201d she sighed \u201cIt was not a happy house when he was home, although I was perfectly happy while he was there, of course. I grew to hate her, and when he died\u2026.I let her know just how much I hated her. I told her – often – How I hated her.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She blinked, gulped, there were tears on her eyelashes, which she brushed impatiently away. Olivia nodded, and reached out a hand which Peggy ignored, so Olivia just sat back, and sighed \u201cI think my heart would have broken even more had Reuben ever said that to me\u2026Of course, he was that much younger, and surrounded by love from both Robert and I. I think I existed in a cocoon of love, thinking it could never end and that when the baby came we would be even happier than we were already. What a stupid thing to think\u2026\u201d she sighed, \u201cBut as I said, Reuben was that much younger, whereas you had had eight years of -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026of being totally confused I suppose. \u201c Peggy sighed and looked at Olivia \u201cI suppose you must think I was a horrible brat of a child\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no, not at all, children react emotionally, they hit out at things they don\u2019t understand, better for that than to close down and lock their emotions up inside themselves – well, that\u2019s what I always think – \u201c she shrugged and gave a little laugh, \u201cNot that my opinion is that important ,of course.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The clock chimed the hour and Peggy placed her cup on the saucer and put them on the tray. Olivia smiled and waited to see if the conversation would continue, Peggy cleared her throat \u201cI didn\u2019t like Adam at first. I told him I hated him as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes., he did tell me that\u2026I imagine he wore you down over time.\u201d again that quick warm gentle smile, the crinkle around the eyes and Peggy realised again what a very attractive woman Olivia was,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh it didn\u2019t take so long \u2026 not really. It was just that I thought he was going to take my father\u2019s place and I resented it, then I realised that I was looking forward to seeing him every bit as much as Mother did. Once she got round to treating me like a human instead of like a china doll that might break \u2026 well, she changed when Adam came into our lives and \u2026 he was different from Father, he was someone I grew to love very much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe loved you too, Peggy. He still does care very much for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy frowned, then shook her head, \u201cI got to wanting him to be my Father. More than anything in the world. Then I got to notice how Mother was starting to complain about him a lot, especially when Will was around\u2026.it confused me, and I began to feel angry with her again. I can\u2019t explain it, not really, just that she shouldn\u2019t have been complaining, not about Adam. Then there was the accident, and it seemed – scary again. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I can imagine how you must have felt. You must have thought someone else you loved was going to leave you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy shrugged again, tossed her head \u201cWell, he did, didn\u2019t he? He did leave me\u2026.just disappeared out of our lives and there was my Mother and Will. And life changed – yet again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you were angry?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I was angry. I guess in a way I just wanted Adam back in our lives. When I came here before, when Adam was at sea, and he was engaged to Barbara Scott\u2026.well, she betrayed him too, you know that, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I know that, I know Barbara.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI loved Adam, and I wanted him to be happy \u2026 more than anything I wanted him to have a happy life, he deserved it, didn\u2019t he? I was so angry with Miss Scott, so when I got back to my Mother and Will, I asked them if we could move back here, buy back the ranch, and I thought by the time Adam left the sea I would be a fully grown woman and he would – \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLove you and marry you?\u201d Olivia said gently.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy blushed, and bowed her head \u201cI\u2019m sorry, I shouldn\u2019t have said that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not? If it\u2019s the truth, then why not say it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt doesn\u2019t really matter now, anyway. Mother and Will whisked me off to Finishing School which nearly did finish me off, and I then went to college and fought through the prejudices there, and found a cause to fight for\u2026something worth while. Something I believe in very much.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAgain, that\u2019s a good thing, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a cause. But it doesn\u2019t wrap its arms around me at night, does it? It doesn\u2019t whisper back \u2018I love you\u2019, or tell me how well I have done at the end of the day.\u201d Peggy stopped, and bit down on her lip, then looked at Olivia \u201cI – I\u2019m sorry, I didn\u2019t – I didn\u2019t expect to say that – I mean – I don\u2019t even know why I said that -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia leaned forward and put out her hand to take hold of Peggy\u2019s, and this time the younger girl did not pull away from her as she had previously, instead she clasped hold of Olivia\u2019s hand tightly while she fought back tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy, it is good to have a cause you believe in, truly it is, but what your heart is really crying out for is someone to love you. You don\u2019t need nor want a second hand love, you need and deserve a real man to love you. You need someone to put their arms around you, to love you – you know that , don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know. I don\u2019t know. \u201c Peggy whispered and wiped away a tear that trickled down her cheek, \u201cI didn\u2019t want to admit I was just another weak woman wanting a man in my life. The only men I ever truly loved were my father and Adam\u2026but \u2026 I didn\u2019t want to think that my life – \u201c she heaved in a deep breath, \u201c I didn\u2019t want to see myself as just another woman needing a man in their life.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded, \u201cYou know, my dear, life can be very lonely without love in it. You have to open your heart up, pull down the barriers, widen out your affections. A woman isn\u2019t weakened by being loved by a man, rather there\u2019s a lot of strength in it. If, of course, it\u2019s the right man.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLike you and Adam?\u201d Peggy said, with a slight blush to her cheeks in having to acknowledge that bond.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and Hoss and Hester, Mary Ann and Joe.\u201d Olivia squeezed Peggy\u2019s hands gently within her own, \u201cMy mother used to say that in the bible the Law given to the Israelites forbade them having an ox tethered with a mule to grind the corn, because one was too strong, and the other too weak. Marriage is the same\u2026 it seems to me that your Father and mother were like the ox and mule, they didn\u2019t – they couldn\u2019t – work together well, but when you have two oxen, or two mules, then they worked together, very well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded, and rose to her feet, Olivia did the same and was surprised when Peggy put her arms around her, hugged her close for a moment and then turned quickly away. \u201cThank you, Olivia. I-I\u2019m sorry if I took up too much time -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia said nothing, but kissed the girl on the cheek and released her hands as though setting a trapped bird free – at last.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel ran into the room, he paused at seeing Peggy walking away and then turned to Olivia, opened up his arms and gave her his warmest smile, his cheeks dimpled, the brown eyes darkened with love as his mother caught him up into her arms and held him tight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy turned then, saw them together, smiled and for the first time in many years felt her heart beating to a different, more melodious, tune. A weight of which she had not even been aware, seemed lifted from her shoulders. A burden gone\u2026hate, love, guilt, misery all wrapped itself together and blew away with the breeze of time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sun shone, soon it would be evening\u2026another day ended, but for her it seemed as though it, and life in general, had just begun.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 51<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Friday arrived and as usual the children abandoned the wagon with customary delight at knowing the weekend relieved them of school. \u00a0 Reuben ran in swinging his books by its strap and his lunch box which hit Nathaniel on the head but Reuben continued on oblivious to his little brother who stood \u00a0rubbing his head and wondering what had hit him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia followed like a whirlwind, knocking in to Nathaniel so that the little boy staggered back several paces before falling flat on his bottom. Not sure whether to laugh or cry, the little boy remained there, rubbing his head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, Mommy.\u201d Sofia cried as she whirled into the big room, looked around and then headed for the stairs \u201cMommy, are you up there?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m here,\u201d Olivia replied from the kitchen doorway and then seeing Nathaniel still sitting on the floor asked him why he was there, \u00a0to which Nathaniel rubbed his head a little more and looked mournful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben continued to rush into the kitchen to talk to Cheng Ho Lee who was always willing to listen to the boy and teach him the odd word in Cantonese.\u00a0 Sofia spun round \u201cMommy, do you know what?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia smiled absent mindedly and walked over to a chair with Nathaniel in her arms and sat down.\u00a0 Sofia ran over, leaned against the back and folded her arms just above Olivia\u2019s head. \u00a0 She leaned down, her head resting upon her arms and some of her hair falling over Olivia\u2019s shoulder and tickling Nathaniel\u2019s nose.\u00a0 The child sneezed and Sofia laughed and began to tease him, swinging her long curls back and forth to brush against his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, what was all the excitement about, Sofia? \u00a0 Hurry up, we haven\u2019t all night, \u00a0Aunt Hester will be expecting us very soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh,.\u201d Sofia nodded and frowned, \u00a0she released her breath, a wisp of warm air drifted past Olivia\u2019s cheek \u201cWell, we went to the library today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded, \u00a0said nothing but swallowed a lump in her throat. \u00a0 She had been waiting for \u00a0Sofia to come home with this news sometime or other, \u00a0and now waited to hear what else she had to say.\u00a0 For a while Sofia seemed happy enough teasing Nathaniel before she said \u201cThat lady you said was Aunt Katherine wasn\u2019t there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, was she out for lunch?\u201d \u00a0Olivia decided Nathaniel had been fussed over enough and put him down, \u201cOr \u00a0was she away for the day?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s gone away.\u201d Sofia said simply, tossing her ringlets and leaving the back of the chair in order to sidle up onto her mother\u2019s lap, \u201cI asked the lady at the counter\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Tyndale?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and she said that the other lady had left town, \u00a0she went in the stagecoach. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid she say anything else?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, \u00a0only that she was very busy and that it was very – some long word – but she didn\u2019t like having all of us children there.\u00a0 She said we mustn\u2019t touch the books unless we could read them.\u00a0 She was a bit grumpy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI daresay she was, without her assistant there she would \u00a0be very busy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, she said that as well to Miss Hayward, I heard \u00a0her, and she sounded cross.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded and looked thoughtful, \u00a0then with a sigh she reminded her daughter that she had to wash up and get ready to go to Gran\u2019pa and Aunt Hesters.\u00a0 Reuben came out with a glass of water which he drank as though he were as dry as a desert.\u00a0 He looked over at his mother and after emptying the glass said \u201cI saw Peggy in town.\u00a0 It was when I had to go on an errand for Mr Evans. \u00a0 She said she wouldn\u2019t be there tonight as she was staying with a friend in town.\u00a0 She said to remind you about the meeting tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia sighed and nodded, thanked Reuben and rather distractedly looked around for \u00a0Nathaniel who seemed to have vanished. \u00a0 \u201cDid she say anything else?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho?\u00a0 Peggy?\u00a0 No \u2026\u201d \u00a0Reuben turned and went back into the kitchen where he was heard chattering to Cheng Ho Lee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel emerged from the porch with his jacket in his hands which he held up to his mother, a reminder that it was time to get ready. \u00a0 \u201cHurry up, everybody, or we\u2019ll be late.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut where\u2019s Daddy?\u201d Sofia wanted to know and looking up from the book she had started to read.\u00a0 She was perfectly comfortable seated on the settee with the book in her lap, her little face looked earnestly up into her mothers and seeing the resolute look on Olivia\u2019s face she sighed and put it away, and scrambled off the settee. \u00a0\u201cDaddy is coming, isn\u2019t he?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course he is, he\u2019s probably already there waiting for us.\u201d Olivia said impatiently and pulled Sofia towards her so that she could tidy the child\u2019s hair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan I stay home, Mom?\u201d Reuben asked, hands behind his back and trying to look winsome and innocent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would you want to stay home? \u00a0 You know you love going to Gran\u2019pa\u2019s!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it is a bit boring \u2026.\u201d Reuben sighed and hung his head \u201cI\u2019m the only boy there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNonsense there\u2019s Daniel, and -\u201d she paused and sighed \u201cwell, I know they\u2019re not as old as you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAw, mom, they\u2019re babies.\u201d \u00a0Reuben groaned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel tugged at her skirts, holding up his jacket and looking sweetly up at her.\u00a0 Reuben heaved another groan, \u201cThey\u2019re all Nathaniel\u2019s age.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, they\u2019re not. \u00a0 Well, just a bit\u2026 \u201c Olivia conceded as she helped Nathaniel get his arm through a sleeve \u201cBut, \u00a0Reuben, \u00a0stop being such a fuss. \u00a0 They all look forward to seeing you, and Gran\u2019pa would be very \u00a0upset if he heard you talking like this\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Ma, it\u2019s – it\u2019s boring.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo you said. \u00a0 Then it\u2019s up to you to make sure that it isn\u2019t\u2026now, hurry up, stop talking rubbish and get ready.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She really wasn\u2019t in the mood for his moaning right now, \u00a0she had things to think about, \u00a0to consider. \u00a0 Katherine having left Virginia City and her new life – as she had called it – leaving just like that, \u00a0could have ramifications. \u00a0 Had she left to find her daughter?\u00a0 Olivia tried to remember where exactly the child was living. \u00a0 Was it Bodie? \u00a0 Was it Genoa? \u00a0 She shook her head and looked around for Sofia who had now gone into the kitchen to talk to Cheng Ho Lee, \u00a0Reuben was dragging his feet, scuffing the toes of his boots along the floor.\u00a0 Nathaniel stood by the doorway patiently waiting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSofia!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Another summons, \u00a0and then Sofia appeared and joined Nathaniel at the door.\u00a0 Reuben sighed, looked at his mother, and hung his head.\u00a0 Olivia opened the door and pushed all three of them out, \u00a0and towards the vehicle waiting for them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you carry on like this, young man, I shall make you walk all the way.\u201d she hissed as she helped Sofia into her seat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Mom \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t say another word\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They were late. \u00a0 Or rather they were the last to arrive and as soon as she pushed open the door \u00a0Olivia could hear the chatter of the assembled family.\u00a0 She gave Reuben a shove and then once she had ensured he was in the room she shut the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was there, talking to Hannah. \u00a0 He was seated with Hope on one knee while he chatted to the other little girl. \u00a0 He glanced up and over at Olivia and shared a smile, before standing up, and walking over to her, Hope still in his arms. \u00a0 \u201cHave a good day?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He leaned in for a kiss as he spoke and as Olivia kissed him so Hope put her arms around her Aunt\u2019s neck and somehow managed to transfer herself to Olivia and out of Adam\u2019s hold. \u00a0 She kissed her Aunt on the cheek and then wriggled to get down, \u00a0now that she had seen Nathaniel she wanted to be with him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia stood by her husband\u2019s side and leaned towards him so that she could whisper \u201cKatherine has left town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReally?\u201d he raised his eyebrows and then shrugged, just slightly, before leaning in and whispering that Peggy was also absent, \u00a0not from town, but from the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester came with a smile, and handed Olivia glass of wine, \u201cPeggy\u2019s taken herself off to stay with – you\u2019ll never guess who? \u00a0 Amanda Ridley!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann now appeared, \u00a0and as the three women seemed to group closer together Adam decided to slip out of the way.\u00a0 He walked over to where his father and brothers stood, gathering Reuben up by the arm as he did so. \u00a0 Hoss frowned and looked at his nephew, if ever a boy looked \u2018fed-up\u2019 this was one! \u00a0 \u201cAnything wrong, Reuben?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben shrugged and shook his head, then sighed.\u00a0 Joe grinned \u201cYou look as though you would want to be anywhere but here just now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI would like to be fishing right now.\u201d Reuben said hopefully, and looked over at his father who gave him a smile but then continued to talk to Ben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, could do that tomorrow.\u201d Hoss said with a nudge at Joe who shook his head,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t\u2026you\u2019re deputising tomorrow, remember?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben\u2019s shoulders slumped, and Hoss looked crest fallen \u201cShucks, I forgot. \u201c \u00a0he glanced over at Adam \u201cHey, Adam, do we need to go tomorrow?\u00a0 Do we really need to?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, and looked at the three of them\u2026Reuben, Joe and Hoss, all three looking hopeful, guilty and hopeful in turn. \u00a0\u201cYou promised Nate.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShucks, there ain\u2019t gonna be no need.\u201d Hoss groaned, \u201cIt\u2019s only gonna be a roomful of women.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked at Ben and raised his eyebrows.\u00a0 Ben interceded \u201cPeggy\u2019s expecting us to be there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not going,\u201d Mary Ann said with a toss of her head, \u00a0which Sofia noticed and wished she could do so as prettily. \u00a0 She decided she would practise \u2018the move\u2019 when she got home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNor am I.\u201d Joe said with a false sigh, and drew their attention to his arm, still in a sling. \u00a0\u201cI wouldn\u2019t be any help at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester looked at Olivia and raised her \u00a0eyebrows, \u201cWell, I did promise Peggy I would go. \u00a0 She said I might learn something to my advantage.\u201d she glanced over to Hoss \u201cBut if Hoss doesn\u2019t go, then I think I\u2019ll stay home too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked anxious, he looked at his sons and their wives and shook his head \u201cWell, you know, if you made a promise to Peggy, and you, Hoss, you made a commitment to Nate\u2026you should be there. \u00a0 Shouldn\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cVery true,\u201d Adam nodded solemnly, \u201cAfter all you have to think of the children\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d Hoss frowned<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat have the children to do with anything?\u201d Joe asked with a frown<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, \u00a0a promise is a promise, isn\u2019t it?\u00a0 You have to set an example and keep the promises you made.\u201d \u00a0Adam replied rather primly and smiled at them \u00a0in that \u2018saintly\u2019 way he had at times which made Joe feel like hitting him and Hoss feeling guilty.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy arm won\u2019t mend by tomorrow\u2026.with your permission I promise to take Reuben fishing.\u201d Joe said promptly and gave his brother one of his \u2018saintly\u2019 and \u2018superior\u2019 smiles.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShucks, don\u2019t that beat all\u2026you get to go fishing and I have to go sit with a load of wimmin.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Before another word could be said, Wang Lee Sing appeared, looking smart in his black ensemble protected by a large white apron. \u00a0 With a bow of the head he announced that it was time to eat, the table was ready.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the kitchen Hop Sing nodded approval, \u00a0Wang Lee was learning, and had been a good apprentice in the kitchen as he had watched Hop Sing preparing the food.\u00a0 He had even been allowed to chop up some items and stir some of the mixtures and sauces. \u00a0 He was learning and like many of his culture felt it a privilege to be \u00a0in such an honourable position.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 52<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy woke up to feelings of doom in her head and a myriad pangs twisting in her stomach. \u00a0 Saturday. \u00a0 She didn\u2019t want to open her eyes instead she wished the day would just go away without her having to leave her bed. \u00a0 Different sounds from outside the building in which she had spent the night slid into her room, \u00a0sounds of a town waking up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now she jolted upright. Had she overslept? On this day of all days, surely not?\u00a0 She hurried to pull on a robe hanging from a hook on the door and made her way downstairs to where Amanda Ridley was sitting drinking coffee at the table in a sun lit room as though today was no more important than any other day. \u00a0 She looked up and saw Peggy looking pale faced and tousled of hair, with panic and fear etched in every line of her features. \u00a0 She smiled and nodded over to the coffee pot,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFreshly brewed if you would like some.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid I oversleep?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot at all.\u201d \u00a0Amanda smiled \u201cI always wake early.\u00a0 This is the best time of the day for me, and I like to have my early morning coffee now. \u00a0 Sit down, \u00a0Peggy.\u201d she smiled again, and glanced over her companion with a fond expression on her face. \u00a0 \u201cBelieve it or not, I had a sister very much like you. \u00a0 Probably one of the reasons why I decided to help you today.\u201d she raised a hand to stop the flood of grateful thanks that were about to flow from Peggys mouth, \u201cAnother reason is because I believe in this cause, and the main reason for that is because I have had to step over a lot of men to get to where I am now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy sat down, her knees felt weak.\u00a0 If she felt like this now, she wondered, how was she going to handle a roomful of people later on? She poured out some coffee and sipped it slowly, then looked over at the other woman. \u00a0\u201cI didn\u2019t know you had a sister.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, she was younger than me, prettier too. \u00a0 She liked parties and gadding about, \u00a0flirting and having fun with the boys\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m not like that\u2026\u201d Peggy grumbled and narrowed her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo? \u00a0 Well, you should be\u2026just a little\u2026\u201d Amanda smiled, and then sighed, \u201cI say that with hindsight, and experience you see. \u00a0 Because I was very different from my sister, and I missed out on a lot as a result.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened to her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe died.\u201d Amanda said sharply, as though she wanted to change the subject now.\u00a0 It had run away with her, seeing Peggy, \u00a0the young womans enthusiasm. \u00a0 She shook her head, \u201cAnyway, after we have had some breakfast we shall finalise the details of our meeting today. \u00a0 Lucy should be here in about an hour \u2026\u201d she glanced at the clock and looked at Peggy again, smiled that smile that didn\u2019t have an echo in her eyes and which so disconcerted her guest.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda was a middle aged woman now.\u00a0 No longer the attractive woman who had been caught up in the misery of her fathers racial hatred which had led to her sister\u2019s death, no longer the woman who had had to overcome a gambling addiction and an engagement to a heartless man who bled her dry. \u00a0 She had overcome insurmountable odds in a male oriented world encapsulated here in Virginia City.\u00a0 Despite everything she had grabbed for every inch they allowed her and pulled in a yard, a mile, a fortune.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Of course she owed a lot of that to the Cartwrights for coming to her aid when they did, but it was also due to her character.\u00a0 She was forceful, strong, resilient.\u00a0 If she was knocked down once she would bounce back up ten times over if necessary.\u00a0 She had learned to think like a man, and to seize the chances as they came, and even to create some should it benefit her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had proven to the men of Virginia City that she could do business as well as any of them.\u00a0 She could lose a fortune and gain a fortune back.\u00a0 She could look down on them with the arrogance of a self made woman. \u00a0 But\u2026.she could never be Mayor of the town, \u00a0hold any position of office, extend further to become an elected member of Government, and she knew full well if she were to marry everything she owned, all she had worked for, would pass on to her husband.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda Ridley wasn\u2019t going to part with a nickel of her money if she could help it. \u00a0 She had men in her life, some she even cared for, none she actually loved.\u00a0 Evenso she \u00a0was determined never to marry until the law changed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her \u00a0housemaid prepared their breakfast and after they had eaten they went to their rooms to prepare themselves to face the day.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou Don\u2019t have to go,\u201d Hoss said to his wife as she brushed through her hair and then carefully braided it to form a coronet around her head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course I do.\u00a0 I promised Peggy I would be there, and anyway, I want to hear what they have to say.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt won\u2019t be nothing new, nothing any different to what Mary Ann and Peggy have been talking about for weeks.\u201d \u00a0Hoss frowned, \u201cWhat if there is trouble and I can\u2019t reach you in time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy should there be any trouble, Hoss? \u00a0 There\u2019s going to be a whole team of deputies, \u00a0and mostly women in the audience.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWomen can be difficult, Hester.\u00a0 Can you imagine if a whole passal of women decide to go on the rampage? \u00a0 Shucks, I don\u2019t even know how I\u2019d \u00a0be able to control \u2018em. \u201c \u00a0Hoss almost blushed, \u00a0almost but not quite. \u00a0 \u201cYou sure about this?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am. I owe it to Peggy and to Mary Ann, even if she won\u2019t be there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd she don\u2019t mind looking after the children?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, she doesn\u2019t mind.\u201d Hester smiled at her reflection and gave her hair its final twist.\u00a0 Then she looked at her husband and stood up, close to him, her hand on his chest, \u201cHoss, \u00a0I wouldn\u2019t go if I thought there would be any trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFunny that, I\u2019m only going because the sheriff thinks there will be trouble.\u201d he sighed and looked at her mournfully.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa will be there too, and Adam.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about Olivia, is she going?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe will be coming with me. \u00a0 She\u2019s leaving the children with Ann.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean your cousin won\u2019t be there?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, \u00a0she said she would prefer to stay home. \u00a0 She said she may lose her temper if she went, and throw something\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShucks, and you ain\u2019t worried that a roomful of women won\u2019t be thinking of doing just the same?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled again, her blue eyes brightened, she leaned in to kiss him, \u201cWomen are not like you men, we won\u2019t do any such thing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cExceptin\u2019 that you said your cousin might if she went there\u2026.that don\u2019t fill me with any confidence, Hester.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shook her head at him and laughed, \u00a0then led the way out of the room, down the stairs and to where Ben was waiting to mount up on Cinnamon, \u00a0Hoss nodded his thanks to his father for saddling up Chubb, \u00a0and Hester got up into the buggy . \u00a0 She smiled again, \u00a0\u201cPa, I have to collect Olivia from Ann\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll follow you \u00a0.\u201d Ben replied, \u201cAdam will meet us there too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded and with a calm look of peacefulness on her face flicked the reins. \u00a0 They left the Ponderosa (with Hop Sing looking out of the window and shaking his head dolefully.\u00a0 No one had asked his opinion but he had given it volubly at the breakfast table.\u00a0 No one took any notice).<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia was ready and waiting.\u00a0 She waved goodbye to Sofia and Nathaniel, kissed Ann on the cheek and then hurried to clamber up into the buggy \u201cI\u2019m not late, am I?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot at all.\u201d Hester laughed, \u201cIf you are it is because I am\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They drove away from Ann\u2019s as though going on a picnic.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben had been allowed to ride into town on Max. \u00a0 Adam had made him promise that he and the rest of the gang would make themselves scarce, \u00a0would take themselves to the pool to go swimming, or even to the river to do some fishing. \u00a0 Reuben had promised with his fingers crossed behind his back, and saying with great sincerity that of course he didn\u2019t know what the Gang had planned.\u00a0 Adam had looked as though he were about to change his mind about letting the boy go when Reuben had said that, \u00a0saying to the boy \u201cLook, so far as I\u2019m concerned you\u2019re the only one of those lads who has any common sense, so make sure you use it and take those boys out of town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, there isn\u2019t going to be anything to worry about, Peggy and some friends are just going to talk to some folks, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust do as I ask, Reuben.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And that had been that, Reuben had nodded and saddled Max, then ridden out with a wave of the hand and not a care in the world.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When he got to town and Davy Riley produced some firecrackers and a box of matches, and Richie Bellshaw showed off the stink bombs he had made (with the help of some other lad, name unknown) Reuben realised that trying to persuade them to go swimming was a non-starter. \u00a0 As they whispered together, chuckled and giggled, he became so addle pated along with them that he forgot all about his father\u2019s plea to use his common sense, and found himself thinking it was going to be a huge amount of fun.\u00a0 Even better than the pig with the flying sheet the day of the spring fete a year ago\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He forgot that for every action there is a reaction, \u00a0and after the reaction\u2026the consequences thereof.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Olivia and Hester entered town and their husbands with Ben rode to the sheriff\u2019s office to report for duty as deputies, there was a strange stillness in town.\u00a0 The stores were closed.\u00a0 Doors were locked and shutters pulled down over their windows.\u00a0 All the goods for sale that usually festooned the side walks had been taken indoor for safety.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate and his deputies were already out of the Sheriffs office and spread out, \u00a0eyes watchful and looking tense. \u00a0 Even at the sight of them Hoss had great misgivings and turned to call Hester back and to tell her to get home. \u00a0 He often forgot that there was a spirit of adventure locked up in his wife\u2019s character, and that she was a fighter.\u00a0 The thought of a bit of a scrap about to take place made her feel quite heady, \u00a0like a youngster again, and she gave a little giggle as she continued to advance into town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia was not so sure. \u00a0 To her mind it seemed if the storekeepers in town had literally battened down the hatches it was for good reason. \u00a0 She wondered where Reuben was and remembered Adam telling her that their son had been told to go out of town, \u00a0to go swimming or fishing.\u00a0 Hoping that Reuben was being sensible and applying that admonition, she stayed where she was, although she gripped hold of the arm rest more tightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy, look, Olivia\u2026Higgins\u2019 Hall is closed. \u00a0 I thought Peggy said the meeting was going to be held at Higgins?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, \u00a0that\u2019s right.\u00a0 At 2 o\u2019clock.\u00a0 Perhaps we are early\u2026\u201d \u00a0 the town hall clock boomed the hour, \u00a0and the Hall remained closed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They left the buggy in the lot by the old school, \u00a0and began to walk towards the centre of town, \u00a0looking from right to left and wondering where everyone could be\u2026and just as they were beginning to think that somewhere or other there had been a mistake the \u00a0sound of shouting could be heard\u2026not shouting exactly, more the sound of many voices chanting and cheering.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They stood stock still, \u00a0others who had just arrived, men and women, joined them.\u00a0 They looked from one to the other, \u00a0then several others arrived and joined them so that they became a little group of their own watching as all of a sudden a whole army (or so it seemed) of women emerged waving banners and brandishing pamphlets and shouting as loud as they could \u201cVotes for Women.\u201d \u00a0 \u201cFreedom for Women.\u201d \u201cEmancipation – we want equal rights for Women.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The pamphlets were thrust into the hands of anyone just standing by, which included Nate and his deputies, \u00a0and those who had come to hear the meeting at Higgins\u2019 Hall, had little choice but to turn round and follow the crowd, thereby adding to their numbers and appearing as though they were part and parcel of the whole thing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben glanced down at the paper in his hand and then looked over at Adam \u201cThey\u2019re meeting \u00a0outside the Town Hall, in the square.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed, shook his head, and looked over at Nate who nodded \u2026 all the law enforcement spread out across the road and followed the crowd.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Close to the town hall and hidden from view the Gang of Five wiggled their way under the side walks, keeping close watch as the crowd gathered before their eyes.\u00a0 On their stomachs and with eyes wide, they grinned and sniggered. \u00a0 Reuben had never realised how intoxicating \u00a0other people\u2019s excitement can be, how their enthusiasm can blow away any common sense that may have been lingering in the remotest corner of his head.\u00a0 He lay on his stomach alongside Tommy and Jimmy, \u00a0close by was David and Richie\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda was dressed in purple.\u00a0 A sober suit, her hat bore a large ostrich feather, and across her chest was a white sash declaring \u2018Emancipation for Women\u2019. \u00a0 Flanking her were Lucy and Peggy, \u00a0both dressed very smartly, with sashes proclaiming Votes for Women.\u2019 \u00a0 As they stood facing the crowd on a raised platform that Amanda had got Armstrong to conjure up for them, \u00a0(dire threats of loss of employment if he didn\u2019t), \u00a0the crowd stopped chanting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

From various buildings and alleyways other people, men and women, emerged.\u00a0 They took their place among the crowd.\u00a0 Nate was quick to notice two men with wooden staves in their hands, partially concealed up the sleeves of their jackets. \u00a0 They were hauled away, \u00a0the sheriff\u2019s gun forcing them to silence as Clem led them to the jailhouse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda began to talk. \u00a0 Her voice was very clear, \u00a0she had perfect modulation, and the silence enabled her voice to carry over the heads of those listening. Considering the lateness of her involvement it seemed only natural that her speech contained fragments taken from Susan B Anthony\u2019s and various other energetic women, but she began by quoting, verbatim, from a speech by Lucretia Mott* which had been made in 1849<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere is nothing of greater importance to the well-being of society at large – of man as well as woman – than the true and proper position of woman. Much has been said, from time to time, upon this subject. It has been a theme for ridicule, for satire and sarcasm. We might look for this from the ignorant and vulgar; but from the intelligent and refined we have a right to expect that such weapons shall not be resorted to, – that gross comparisons and vulgar epithets shall not be applied, so as to place woman, in a point of view, ridiculous to say the least.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s the truth,\u201d a man stated loudly, \u201cRidiculous to say the least.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Someone laughed.\u00a0 There was the stirring of unrest.\u00a0 Amanda gave the culprit a glare that was enough to silence him so that she could continue and for some moments she was still able to hold their attention but when she got to the point of mentioning that God had made woman equal to man a man yelled \u201cThat\u2019s blasphemy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy quelled, recognising her father\u2019s voice, and felt her face redden. She looked at Peggy who was glaring at the crowd and not looking at all conciliatory. \u00a0 Several newcomers had arrived and were making their way into the crowd.\u00a0 Peggy recognised Abel Greigson among them and lowered her eyes to look at the people in the front row among them Olivia and Hester.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou should read \u00a0your bible more often, Mr Garston, instead of just slinging out your favourite quotes on a Sunday.\u201d Amanda shouted back and a woman in the crowd yelled back \u201cFor shame.\u00a0 Speaking to Mr Garston like that\u2026for shame.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Another woman called from the back of the crowd \u201cYou of all people should know better, Amanda Ridley.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was a trickle of laughter, a slight wave of agitation from the back of the crowd. Adam and Hoss began to circle the perimeters of the gathered people now, walking along the side walks, trying to peer into the assembly to see if they could pinpoint any who could make trouble.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda continued with her speech, alluding to the fact that women gave their strength, their intelligence (some did shout \u2018what intelligence is that?\u2019) and support to what their men did, they rode along with the first pioneers, they built the forts, they created the settlements and homesteads. \u00a0 It was women alongside men who fought hostile Indians, furrowed the land to plant seed, worked along with their men while at the same time having their children<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat children do you have, Amanda Ridley?\u201d a woman screeched and there was laughter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNone of you have any children.\u201d another yelled<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy stepped forward and looked at them calmly, she said before she thought about it \u201cShow me any man here who has -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve six children\u2026\u201d a man laughed and a woman jeered back with coarse laughter \u201cNone you birthed yourself\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease\u2026\u201d Lucy took her place now, and raised her hand for attention \u201cAny and every woman here with any respect for herself must realise that -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs she saying I don\u2019t respect myself?\u201d \u00a0a woman yelled, \u201cIs that what you\u2019re saying?\u00a0 That \u00a0because I ain\u2019t wanting to vote I don\u2019t respect myself?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m saying that every woman has the right to -\u201d Lucy began and failed to see the rotten fruit winging its way towards her<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s my daughter -\u201d screeched Mrs Garston<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen what\u2019s she doing there – \u201c another woman yelled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

An umbrella came down heavily upon the head of Mrs Garston\u2019s nearest neighbour and immediately the man next to this woman pulled out a piece of wood heavy enough to pole axe an ox and swung it down.\u00a0 Mrs Garston shrieked as it whistled pass her and hit the man standing behind her. \u00a0 Hoss waded into the crowd and grabbed the man\u2019s wrist, preventing him from using the club again while the man on the ground groaned and held his head which was pouring with blood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Davy turned to Jimmy \u201cShall I let them off now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no yet.\u201d Jimmy whispered<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben frowned, he saw his father moving into the crowd, and what seemed like a wave of people moving about in its centre.\u00a0 He tugged at Tommy\u2019s sleeve \u201cI think we should get out of here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tommy nodded \u201cYeah, so do I.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They began to wriggle away, tugging at Davy and Jimmy\u2019s pants while Richie looked over at them \u201cWhy are you leaving, the fun hasn\u2019t started yet?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy Pa said to leave \u2026he said not to be here.\u201d Reuben whispered and carried on pushing himself away with Tommy so close that his boots grazed Reubens fingers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy looked over his shoulder, saw Reuben and Tommy moving away and then looked over at the crowd. \u00a0 Amanda Ridley was talking again, very loudly, her voice just about carrying over the murmurs from the crowd.\u00a0 He could see Adam man handling some man away, down to the sidewalk, and recognised him as a troublemaker well known in town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy came and began to talk, her voice wasn\u2019t as strong as Amanda\u2019s and some people yelled at her to speak up.\u00a0 She cleared her throat, and looked from one face to the other, they began to swim in front of her eyes and she wondered if she was going to do the worst thing possible, and faint.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Strengthened by her determination not to do so, she gathered herself together, so to speak, and looked at Mrs Garston, then at several other women she recognised, and choosing them for her audience addressed them as though in their own parlours \u201cAre you really content to sit at home and allow men to tell you how to live your lives? \u00a0 You see men voting men into power who have no respect for women, no admiration for their qualities and yet you do \u00a0nothing. \u00a0 Don\u2019t you realise that if women had the voting power long denied us that we could vote into power men who cared for not just a proportion of the population, which is the male population, but for all \u2026men and women\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSpare us the lectures, Miss Dayton\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho are you to tell us what to do\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou should ask your old man what he thought of women, you wouldn\u2019t find him voting for a woman to tell him what to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe wouldn\u2019t even let his wife do that\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Coarse laughter followed that comment, a woman shouted some obscenity and hurled a rock towards the platform.\u00a0 Several other missiles followed.\u00a0 The crowd was moving, heaving, undulating like a wave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy and Davy began to move, wriggling backwards in order to reach where the side walk ended and they could head for home. \u00a0 Richie looked at the fire crackers in his hand, he picked up the matches that Davy had dropped\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The small cache of stink bombs had been dislodged during Jimmy\u2019s exit, and now rolled among the crowd, people trod on them, someone picked on \u00a0up and lobbed it at Amanda, it fell onto the platform\u2026Richie decided to abandon ship and scrabbled away, but a rough looking man noticed him, grabbed at his arm and hauled \u00a0him away from the shelter of the planks the sidewalk provided him.\u00a0 But the man wasn\u2019t interested in a wriggling little boy whom he released right away, but he did like the look of the fire crackers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease calm down\u2026\u201d Peggy cried<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis is a peaceful meeting, please let it continue to be one\u2026\u201d Amanda shouted, while pulling out a handkerchief in an attempt to stop the smell from the stink bomb getting up her nose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy was running from the platform, caught her heel in the hem of her skirt and staggered. \u00a0 \u00a0Adam was pushing his way towards the front of the crowd in an effort to reach Hester and Olivia.\u00a0 He saw Lucy fall, hesitated a moment, and then dashed forwards to her aid.\u00a0 She cried that she was alright and promptly fainted as he reached her, so that he had to scoop her up into his arms.\u00a0 No sooner had he done so that he found himself surrounded by townspeople.\u00a0 Shouts and yells, curses, obscenities\u2026missiles were flung far and wide and suddenly above it all came the ripping and crackling of the fire crackers, sounding so much like gun fire.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There were screams and cries for help. \u00a0 People were knocked down, or fell down.\u00a0 They were pushed one way, pulled back another.\u00a0 Hester fell and someone fell on top of her, crushing her upon the ground. \u00a0 There was pandemonium everywhere and Nate with his deputies were wading in trying to restore order.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda was knocked off the platform and had her sash torn off her, a fist crushed it, waved it under her nose and told her \u201cThis is what I think of that..\u201d and spat on it before throwing it into her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia had found Hester, and was crouched down over her, an attempt to protect the other woman without realising the danger there was to herself. \u00a0 Peggy fled from the platform, fear created panic, she felt sick, she felt as though she was really going to faint \u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The bangers had stopped but the fighting continued almost as though they had energized the townspeople into a renewed frenzy. \u00a0 A rifle shot \u2026and then another\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate, the sheriff was on the platform, the rifle pointing skywards as he yelled for order.\u00a0 At the back of the crowd another rifle shot rang out \u2026 people turned to confront Amanda Ridley, her face ashen, the sleeve of her dress torn off and hanging from her elbow, but the rifle in her hands wasn\u2019t pointing skywards, and the fact it was pointing to one particular man began to quieten everyone nearby.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGet up there and tell them to quieten down\u2026or I swear I\u2019ll put a hole right through you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Mayor of Virginia City put his hands up as high as he could, and backed away through the crowd. \u00a0 People began to fall back, began to realise that people, their neighbours, their friends and in some cases their customers, were hurt, injured and shocked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Some discreetly took to their heels and hurried back to their homes or stores in the hope that no one would remember that they had been there. \u00a0 Some stayed, too stunned to know what to do.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel Greigson looked down at the girl in his arms and carried her carefully over to the Apothecary who had the decency now to unlock and open his door to admit them.\u00a0 Adam passed Lucy to her father who looked shocked and lost, while Mrs Garston was bloodied but looking ready for another fight.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The deputies moved in among those still present and took into custody any found with weapons, and anything they possessed that could have been used as a weapon.\u00a0 And then Hoss and Adam found their wives.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 53<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boys had reached their pool situated just beyond the town boundaries. Relief that they had got away before things had got too out of hand made them a little giddy. They shoved and pushed one another as they ran or walked to the pool, talking far too loudly, laughing over nothing. When Richie came panting up to join them no one asked him where the bangers had gone, or the stink bombs. Best forgotten was the motto for the day!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The water was cool and refreshing as they dived into the pool. Their clothes were bundled in the reeds and forgotten for the moment. Waters covered their heads, cooled their skin and helped them escape the memories of being sandwiched in together under the planks of the sidewalk to watch Peggy Dayton\u2019s Meeting. After a few moments they let themselves believe that they had never been there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate Carney was a good lawman with the natural instincts for smelling out anything that could or would solve a mystery. Someone had set off a string of fireworks, the burnt remains of which he found near the platform. Mrs Higgins had volunteered the information that she had seen some man in a check shirt put a match to them, she said that was why she had ran for cover as she had done. The man was not easy for her to forget as he had had ginger hair and side whiskers, commonly known as mutton-chops.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate had looked over the area from the vantage point of the platform Amanda had had erected and scanned it carefully noting the discarded or dropped possessions that littered the ground. Parasols and umbrella\u2019s that the women had brought to shield themselves from the sun, some hats belonging to some men who had either fallen in the crush or fled so fast from the scene that their hats had taken leave of them. There were gloves, handkerchiefs, the tattered remnants of the brochures that had informed them all of the change of venue. There was a pair of spectacles, with lenses broken, and most sorrowful of all were splodges of blood that Sam from the Sazarac saloon was now attempting to cover with fresh sawdust and sand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was a sorrowful business. Nate accepted that the fire cracker had not caused the chaos, but it had added to it. Feelings had just plain got out of hand, things had got too personal too soon, and he knew that quite a few men had already planned to cause trouble, even some women had come armed with missiles to throw at the women at the platform. Another problem was the fact that the crowd had not been contained in a small area which would have controlled the ensuing riot. A saloon brawl would involve several men, maybe even spread out to a few more. A meeting in a Hall would still have limited the number of people who could have been affected by the fighting. But this was in the open, and people had spilled out from the alleyways to ‘join in’, and he had to admit that he and his deputies had been totally overwhelmed by numbers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He walked among the debris and picked up a discarded bag and found several smooth rocks within it. He didn\u2019t want to guess as to whom the bag had belonged and wondered if the woman would come forward to lay claim to it. For now he was looking for a ginger haired man with a check shirt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel Greigson had waved some smelling salts under Peggy\u2019s nose and been relieved to see her eyelids flutter open and her eyes look up into his face before they closed again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019ll be all right now,\u201d the apothecary said knowingly, he had treated enough fainting women in his time to be somewhat of an authority on the subject.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI said she\u2019ll be all right now. You don\u2019t have to keep waving that bottle about once they\u2019ve come to their senses.\u201d he reached out and snatched the bottle from Abel\u2019s hand and nodded \u201cI\u2019ll go and get her a glass of water.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With his arm supporting her shoulders he was able to gently help Peggy into a sitting position, and quite enjoyed having her head lolling upon his shoulder for a few minutes before the apothecary came and handed him some water in a chipped glass. He was more than pleased when Peggy opened her eyes, straightened herself up and took the water. She muttered \u2018Thank you\u2019 and then drank the glass dry before handing it back to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere am I?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn the Apothecary\u2019s \u2026 it was the nearest I could take you to, away from the – the mess that was out there.\u201d Abel replied, his voice stern, rather like a teacher scolding a student but trying to be patient as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat mess? What are you talking about?\u201d Peggy winced and placed a hand to her brow, then to her head \u201cWhere\u2019s my hat?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSomewhere out there I should imagine.\u201d Abel replied and put a hand under her elbow and helped her to her feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was surprised to discover just how weak her legs were, and swayed for a moment or two before gratefully sitting down onto the chair provided by Mr Sallis the Apothecary.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a bump on the back of your head, you should go to the doctor and get that seen to.\u201d Mr Sallis suggested, \u201cYou should get it seen to in case you have a concussion.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you,\u201d Peggy muttered and touched the bump gingerly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you feeling sick at all,\u201d Mr Sallis asked, \u201cIf you are feeling sick it could be a sign of concussion as well. Always a good idea to go and check out with a doctor if you are feeling sick.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel lowered his dark brows and scowled, while Peggy sat and stared into space. After a while she glanced over at Abel and asked him what he was doing there, to which he rather shortly replied that he had attended her Meeting, so – called, and rescued her from being trampled on by the crowd.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou had fainted\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t faint,\u201d she replied with a toss of her head, she winced as pain shot down her back, \u201cI think something hit me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou fell off the platform, into my arms as a matter of fact.\u201d Abel replied and leaned against the Apothecary\u2019s counter to look at her with a totally blank face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat doesn\u2019t mean I fainted\u2026\u201d she replied and put a hand to her face, in order to shield her eyes. She wanted to cry. Had he not been standing there so close to her she would have cried until there were no tears left. \u201cWhere\u2019s Lucy? Where\u2019s Miss Ridley?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe last I saw of Miss Garston was when Adam Cartrwight passed her over to her father. She had fainted as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy clenched her fists and closed her eyes. It was all coming back to her now, the noise, the shouting, the sound of gun fire\u2026she looked at him, opening her eyes so suddenly that it caught him by surprise so that she could see the look of concern on his face for her. But she ignored that and asked who had started the shooting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere was no shooting.\u201d Mr Sallis said very quickly, \u201cNo shooting at all until the sheriff got on the platform and fired his rifle to stop the fighting.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFighting? But – there wasn\u2019t supposed to be any fighting. There was just going to be a talk, a discussion\u2026not a fight.\u201d she wailed and put her hand to the sides of her head as though trying to stop the memories of what had taken place flooding too graphically into her brain forcing her to see, yet again, the failure of her venture.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere was fighting,\u201d Mr Sallis said and looked to Abel for some support of his claim, \u201cI saw it from the window. I thought for sure someone would break it, my window I mean. All that fighting and people hurt too, you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut – no, no – you must be wrong. No one was meant to be hurt.\u201d she wailed, she clamped her teeth together knowing that if she said another word she would start to cry, perhaps even scream. She wondered if she were going hysterical and looked at Abel who was observing her carefully, \u201cI never wanted anyone to be hurt.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They said nothing to that, but looked at one another and then observed her. She stood up, \u201cI should go and see the sheriff.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think he\u2019ll want to see you, eventually. At the moment he has enough to do. I think it best you came with me, get a chance to calm down.\u201d and he took hold of her by the elbow and helped her to stand up, \u201cCome along, Miss Dayton.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI – I don\u2019t want to go anywhere with you. I need to see Lucy and Miss Ridley.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2018t think you\u2019ll be able to see Lucy or Miss Ridley for a while. Miss Ridley is in the cells for threatening to shoot the Mayor, and Lucy is with her family, whom, I doubt very much, will want to see you at the moment.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen – then let me see Adam, Adam Cartwright, or Ben – \u201c she pleaded and again Abel shook his head, Mr Sallis did likewise, shaking his head and blinking rapidly behind his spectacles<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust come with me, Peggy. It\u2019ll be better for now\u2026.\u201d Abel said quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTake the back door, young man, the back door is better \u2026 more \u2026strategic.\u201d Mr Sallis said and nodded to add emphasis to his words.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you do with the firecrackers?\u201d Davy asked Richie as they finally hauled themselves out of the water.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t do anything with \u2018em.\u201d Richie replied shaking his head in an attempt to get water out of his ears. \u201cSome man came and pulled me from under the boards and took them off me, so I just ran to catch you up. You could have waited for me\u2026\u201d he moaned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean someone took your fireworks?\u201d Reuben asked anxiously and began to reach out for his pants.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey weren\u2019t my fireworks.\u201d Richie protested, \u201cIt was Davy who brought them along.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I didn\u2019t.\u201d David screwed up his face in denial, \u201cYou did\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tommy Conway pulled on his shirt and slowly buttoned it up, \u201cDoesn\u2019t matter who brought \u2018em along, we\u2019ll all be for it if that man used them and there was any trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would there be any trouble?\u201d Jimmy asked \u201cIt was just Lucy Garston and Peggy Dayton spouting off\u2026and Miss Ridley of course, but no one takes any notice of her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, they do\u201d Tommy said as he pulled on his boots, \u201cShe\u2019s what my Ma calls a – a -\u201d he searched for the word and couldn\u2019t remember it, so shrugged instead<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I don\u2019t suppose anyone will cause trouble, will they?\u201d Jimmy asked and found himself looking at several anxious faces.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben felt his heart sinking while he fumbled for buttons to do up, and laces to tie up. He knew he had been disobedient, and he had broken a promise. His Pa laid a lot of store on the importance of keeping promises. He glanced over to Jimmy and could see the same fear in his eyes, fear of having let people down, letting himself down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He walked back to town without the swagger that he had ran and jumped and hollered all the way to the pool earlier. He walked back hoping that he would find the town calm and quiet, and everything just as it should be\u2026with Pa and Mom waiting by the buggy and Gran\u2019pa and Uncle Hoss with Aunt Hester chatting and laughing together.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

That\u2019s what he was hoping\u2026<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul Martin secured the bandage around Ben\u2019s hand and then nodded, wearily. He looked up at Ben but said nothing, nor did Ben speak. There was nothing for them to say. Placing a gentle hand on Ben\u2019s back the doctor walked his friend to the door and then stepped back for Ben to leave the surgery. He closed the door behind him and then turned to face James Colby<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA bad business.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

James nodded \u201cI thank God that Alyssia decided not to go. She was curious about it, but chose to stay home with the baby.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat on earth got into them\u2026?\u201d Paul exclaimed and raised his eyes to the ceiling as though some voice from on high would boom the answer from the rafters. \u201cMadness.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cToo many came prepared for trouble, in fact, came prepared to cause trouble.\u201d James replied as he perched himself on the corner of the desk, \u201cI\u2019m afraid Miss Dayton, Lucy and Miss Ridley were all three too na\u00efve or brainwashed by this cause of theirs that they failed to appreciate the temper of the people they were going to lecture.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Paul nodded \u201cSadly I have to agree.\u201d he walked over to the window and watched as various deputies were beginning to tidy up the area that had been littered with the debris of the afternoons debacle, \u201cNo matter how well meaning they were, they needed to be more cautious.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMore aware of the dangers\u2026\u201d James murmured and joined his fellow physician at the window to watch<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWere there any fatalities?\u201d Paul asked quietly<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve not heard any definite news yet. I\u2019m praying not\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI never thought I would live to see the day Amanda Ridley would take a weapon and threaten to shoot anyone. Not with her past history. Good heavens, what was she thinking of\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

James shot him a sharp look from the corner o f his eye \u201cI think she was trying to stop further trouble, she never intended to shoot the man.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The ginger haired man stood in front of Nate and listened to what the sheriff was saying. He tugged at the left side of his mutton chops and nodded,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I understand what you\u2019re saying, sheriff. Honestly I didn\u2019t bring them fireworks to the Meeting. I promise you I didn.t\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut you set light to them, didn\u2019t you? You knew the effect that their going off would create, didn\u2019t you?\u201d Nate stared at the man, he was leaning against his desk with his arms folded across his chest, and his eyes steel blue as he stared at the man.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t even think about that.\u201d the man admitted, \u201cI just say this kid -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA kid, what kid? What are you talking about?\u201d Clem now demanded, stepping forward and glaring at Mutton Chops<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere was a kid, hiding beneath the side walk, so I yanked him out and he had these fireworks in his hand and I saw the matches on the ground and anyway he wriggled himself free and ran for it, leaving the fireworks and matches behind.\u201d Mutton Chops sighed, and then stared down at the ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo, like a law abiding citizen you decided to turn them in to one of the deputies so that there would be no threat to life\u2026huh?\u201d Clem muttered standing so close to the man that he was able to see the sweat beading in the creases of his forehead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI should have done that, but things were hotting up by then. I didn\u2019t even think about what I was doing, what would happen when I did it\u2026nothing like that\u2026I promise you if I had even stopped to think\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou should have, you should have stopped to think.\u201d Nate hissed, and stood upright, his full height causing him to tower over the wretched man who cowed back and bumped into Clem standing behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThings could have been controlled, brought to order\u2026but when you tossed those fireworks into the crowd it just created fear, and fear created panic and as a result there was chaos, people got hurt, injured.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, it wasn\u2019t my fault -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen whose fault is it? You blaming that kid ? You going to say it was his fault?\u201d Clem snarled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo – yes – I mean – I don\u2019t know. I didn\u2019t mean any trouble\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou came with a knife in your belt, a gun in your holster, a sack containing rocks, shards of glass, pieces of metal – and you came to a peaceful meeting with all that without the intention of using any of them?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mutton Chops quailed and stepped back \u201cThe word was out – we – we got told – some of the boys just told to cut it up rough, just a little bit, just a little bit of fun.\u201d he gulped, perhaps he had used the wrong word, he saw the sheriff\u2019s mouth tighten, heard the intake of breath from the deputy behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLock him up. We\u2019ll charge him once I can get a list of grievances written down \u2026\u201d Nate growled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He watched as Clem led the man away, still protesting his innocence, then he<\/p>\n

looked up at Mark Watts \u201cAnyone else?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s the last of them, Boss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAny idea who was the one giving orders – any of them let the cat out of the bag as to who organised this little affray?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mark, who had the ability to merge with the crowd, to notice the way people looked at each other or overhear a word spoken at the right time, nodded \u201cSure do, Boss. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate raised an eyebrow \u201cWho?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWasn\u2019t no one in charge. It was just the whole lot of \u2018em got to talking, they were gingered up by their wives, well, those who were married. The women were going on at home about the wrongness of it, how it had to be stopped before there was trouble\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHuh!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, real big trouble they were thinking of, sort of the whole thing getting out of hand or as one of them said \u2018upsetting the natural order of things\u2019 – they were all in on it together. If you want to make any more arrests you can get warrants for Mrs Garston for one, and Mrs Higgins – she was the one forced her husband to cancel the booking of the hall -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate said nothing and shook his head \u201cThe boy who was under the sidewalk, with the fireworks, do you know who that was?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mark frowned, and then sighed \u201cI have a feeling it was Richie Bellshaw.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Blacksmith\u2019s boy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cS\u2019right. I saw him earlier looking rather suspicious. He\u2019s a good boy, well behaved, but can\u2019t hide the excitement when he has a chance to get into mischief.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate looked at his deputy and Mark Watts nodded, looked down at his boots, and frowned \u201cDo you want me to go and have a word?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate frowned \u201cWere the Bellshaws at the Meeting?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mark shook his head \u201cNo, Mrs Bellshaw had toothache and stayed home, and Bellshaw himself was too busy at the Faradays place shoeing some horses for \u2018em there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, you had best get Richie in\u2026.\u201d Nate said as he took his seat at his desk.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He watched Mark leave the building, the door closed and left him seated, staring down at the papers on his desk. He had a bad feeling about all this, a very bad feeling.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester lay very still. The sun was warm upon her face and she kept her eyes closed as she remained on her back with her arms spread out on either side. She dreamed that she was in a field of freshly mown grass, and the wonderful fragrance of dried grass filled the air. It was so peaceful. From the distance came a low humming, like the drone of a heavily laden bee, returning home with pouches full of pollen, wings beating wearily in the warm air. She felt no pain now, everything was calm and peaceful and still.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 54<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia had thrown herself over Hester\u2019s fallen body as soon as she had seen the woman fall and noticed the proximity of the wave of people to her. Feet and arms had been threshing about wildly, drawing closer and closer to the woman on the ground and without thinking, or perhaps thoughts leaping ahead of action, Olivia had sought only to protect her friends vulnerability.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had put her arms around Hester, protecting her head as best she could \u2026her own body was a barrier that would stop an unguarded boot or a cast missile to strike Hester. The fact that she was now in as vulnerable a situation hadn\u2019t even occurred to her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had turned her face towards the crowd and called out to them to stop, to stop the brawling before someone got hurt, when she first saw the danger she and Hester were in..or had she anticipated it all along? She had raised a hand to shield her face, and turned aside before the blow fell.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss had ran, elbowing people aside, pushing them back, both of them with only one objective in mind and that was to reach their wives before any harm could befall them. Adam was already regretting the time he had lost by helping Lucy Garston, Hoss was wishing he had never come at all\u2026he hit someone with his fist and felt the crunch, heard the yell but all he could see was the crumpled body of two women laying in the ground.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Gentle Hoss, inside himself his whole body ached with the longing to cry out, a huge yowl of pain and anguish as he watched his brother very tenderly lift Olivia into his arms and hold her tight against him. As he raised Olivia away from Hester, Hoss was able to reach his own wife, to tenderly, everso gently, turn her onto her back and brush away the dust and grit of the road from her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam couldn\u2019t feel a thing\u2026he thought of scarlet and red and black ..colours twirling round and round in his head, soaring up through his inward parts. Too much pain, too much fear, too much terror. His wife in his arms, cradling her against his own body, wanting to kiss her bruised face and wanting to see those vivid eyes open wide, the bloodied lips part into their warm sweet smile. He caressed her cheek with his fingers, feeling the contour of cheekbone and jaw, the outline of her lips\u2026.he saw the blood on his fingertips and then bowed his head and allowed the tears to flow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The colours blended and faded, seeped away like dye from a piece of silk, and when his father had come, placed a hand on his back he felt as though his heart would explode with the torment of having to face whatever came next.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

Hoss had cried, not silently like Adam, but loudly, like a bull roaring in the fields for its loss \u2026 his shoulders had shaken as he had held Hester to him, and the tears had fallen down his face and splashed upon her dress making damp dark patched on the soft blue of her gown.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s hand upon his back had been a comfort. It hadn\u2019t stopped the tears because grief was the overwhelming emotion he felt, not pride or embarrassment at making a public display of his misery\u2026he wanted to cry, he wanted to bellow, he wanted to make thing better for Hester and to stop this pain within himself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had wiped his eyes, drawn his hand over his face, pinched the bridge of his nose, and hauled in deep breaths. Not due to pride nor embarrassment at being seen by any one there to display his misery so publicly, but because he had the sense to know that nothing was achieved by standing there weeping.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He held Olivia in his arms and turned to move away only to be stopped by Paul, who stood there, nodded and pointed to two men bearing a stretcher. There were other men, other stretchers, other bodies being placed carefully upon them and carried away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had blinked fast, stopped more tears from welling up and spilling over\u2026he didn\u2019t want to let her go, he didn\u2019t want to put her any distance from him now. But Paul was stubborn, and caring and gentle. So he had carried his wife to the waiting stretcher, placed her upon it, and covered her with the blanket.<\/p>\n

……………………<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben Cartwright was wondering whether or not to pull off the bandage that Paul had so carefully wrapped about his hand. It was irritating to have to admit that his only injury had been a bite from some irate woman whom he had been trying to usher to safety. She had fastened her teeth upon the fleshy part of his hand quicker than a rattler and held on just as fast.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Cinnamon nudged him as though to wake him from his ponderings and he glanced up<\/p>\n

to see young Reuben running towards him. The boy was looking rather confused, as well he might on seeing the debris that still littered the Town Hall area, but he smiled upon seeing his Grandfather. Wet hair and rather patchily damp clothing proved he had been to the water hole to swim and Ben felt a wave of relief wash over him at the thought that his grandson had been far enough away from the melee as to not know what had taken place there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHi Gran\u2019pa. Am I late?\u201d the boy grinned, freckles danced across his cheeks and nose, his dark hair flopped damply across his brow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, son, not at all.\u201d Ben replied, straightening his back and standing tall. He nodded at the boy \u201cDid you enjoy your swim?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI would have liked to have gone fishing with Uncle Joe better.\u201d Reuben replied with a candour that always amused Ben, \u201cBut it was alright. Richie came later, he was no fun at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded and sighed, then put his hand upon Reuben\u2019s shoulder, and gave it a slight squeeze \u201cReuben, we have to -\u201d he paused and frowned, then leaned down a little from the waist in order to get better eye to eye contact \u201cReuben, something happened here this afternoon, and -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Ma? Is Pa alright? Nothing happened to him, did it?\u201d Reuben frowned, his face flushed, he blinked rapidly, feeling tight across the chest, \u201cWhat happened, Gran\u2019pa? Why is there all that mess \u2026 how\u2019d you hurt your hand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben swallowed again, nodded \u201cYour Pa\u2019s alright, Reuben. Something happened at the Meeting, and some people got hurt. Your Ma and Aunt Hester \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boys face blanched, his eyes widened and the pupils dilated, \u201cThey\u2019re alright, aren\u2019t they? They\u2019re not really hurt, not bad, are they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His stomach was churning over and his chest felt tighter, so tight that his throat seized up and he couldn\u2019t breathe. He felt his Grandfather\u2019s hand tighten upon his shoulder, the dark eyes darken, and the rugged face gentled and became soft and tender, \u201cSon, calm down now. Take some deep breaths \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate Carney saw Ben with the boy and strode towards them. Richie had been missing, or rather, difficult to find. But the sheriff knew that where Richie had been there would be at least three or four other little boys, and Reuben Cartwright was one of them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He could see the boy was distressed, rubbing his face and trying to be brave for his Gran\u2019pa and for a moment Nate thought of turning back and chasing up the other lads, Tommy Conway for instance would reveal everything, he would always be the weak link in the chain. But it was too late now, Ben had looked up and seen him, and straightened up, stepped back a pace or two with his hand still on the boy\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNate? Anything wrong?\u201d Ben asked and Reuben turned to look up at the sheriff, who always looked too tall, \u201cSomething happen?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate nodded and looked at Reuben. He noticed the wet hair, damp clothing\u2026he sighed and hoped he was wrong \u201cReuben, before you went to the water hole, where were you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben gulped. He lowered his eyes and stared at the ground, he didn\u2019t want to speak, he didn\u2019t want to say where he had been, nor admit that he had been disobedient to his Pa. He heaved in a deep breath and Ben frowned and looked at Nate enquiringly, but Nate just ignored that and waited. Reuben glanced up and saw the sheriff, noticed the kindly eyes despite the grim look on his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was here in town. The Gang didn\u2019t want to go swimming right away. I told them but – but they wanted to see what this Meeting was really all about. Davy\u2019s Ma said she was going to be there and she was going to give Miss Ridley and Peggy a piece of her mind. Davy said it would be funny to see her – his Ma – and Richie wanted to go too. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo where abouts were you?\u201d Nate now asked kindly, lowering himself down as though realising that towering above the lad as he did, would have been intimidating.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUnder the sidewalk\u2026there\u2019s plenty of room to wriggle in and watch what\u2019s going on.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd did you have any thing with you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean? What kind of thing?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, did you come with anything in your hands to throw into the crowd if it got a bit boring \u2026for example\u2026some stones, or rocks, or – fire crackers?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo. I didn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing at all?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Pa said to go straight to the water hole, and that\u2019s what I wanted to do, but the Gang didn\u2019t want to go. I didn\u2019t want to go by myself\u2026\u201d his voice trailed away, and he felt the lump in his chest dull and heavy, his stomach clenched, he felt like he wanted to be sick at the memory of the matches, the fire crackers, the stink bombs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, perhaps you didn\u2019t have anything with you, but did any of the other boys bring things with them?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s hand tightened on Reubens\u2019 shoulder and the thought crossed his mind that if he told the truth he would be \u2018betraying\u2019 the gang. But if he told a lie\u2026. What would Pa say to that? Or Ma?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo one came to cause any trouble. We just wanted to see Mrs Riley \u2026\u201d he blinked faster, tears came to his eyes, he swallowed bile \u201cI feel real sick, Sheriff\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReuben, you didn\u2019t – or rather – your friends didn\u2019t cause any ruckus here, did they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben shook his head wildly, \u201cNo, no we didn\u2019t\u2026.I told Tommy and Jimmy that we had to go, because people were starting to shout and I reckoned we wouldn\u2019t have been able to hear Mrs Riley anyhow. Tommy and Jimmy came right along with me, and we ran off to the water hole, and then Davy came and the Richie was last of all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWas Richie the one with the fire crackers?\u201d Nate asked very quietly and Reuben realised that he couldn\u2019t remember \u2026was it Davy or Ritchie? Nate looked at the boy, too innocent by nature to prevent or conceal his thoughts flitting like so many shadows across his face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, I can\u2019t remember\u2026.but they didn\u2019t use them, they didn\u2019t set them off.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid they intend to?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben frowned, shrugged and shook his head \u201cI don\u2019t know\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben tightened his grip on the boy\u2019s shoulder and looked at Nate, who slowly uncoiled himself and stood up. \u201cDo you know where Ritchie is now, Reuben? Or Davy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben shook his head, he glanced up to his Grandfather \u201cI want to see Ma? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben again looked at Nate who nodded and stepped aside. As Reuben passed him, Nate placed a hand lightly on his back and said \u2018Thank you\u2019 in a gentle voice that made the boy shiver.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are we going, Gran\u2019pa?\u201d Reuben whispered as he slipped his hand into Ben\u2019s and allowed himself to be led away from the livery.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTo the hospital. That\u2019s where your Ma and Pa are, and Aunt Hester and Uncle Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Again the tight feeling in his chest, he wanted to vomit, bile hit his throat and he had to stop, and spit it out into the road. He was shaking and Ben stopped walking to stand close to him and put his arm around him until he felt more under control. He wished he had stayed home and gone fishing, none of this would have happened \u2026or perhaps he would have done anyway and it would have been worse, because the boys would have just stayed there, become a part of all the trouble, because they wouldn\u2019t have gone swimming if he had not urged them to go with him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He wished he could get to the hospital that very instant. He wished he could turn back time. He sniffed hard, tears and snot went down his throat, he coughed, he spat again. Ben waited and nodded, understood, and then in silence picked the boy up into his arms and held him tight against him<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s alright, Reuben, it\u2019s alright. Have a good cry now, get it all out \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And so he did. He cried and sobbed, and clung tightly to his Grandpa, until he couldn\u2019t cry anymore and when he stopped, Bridie was there standing beside them, her hand on his back, and that gentle sweet look on her face.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 55<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

No one could miss the building, the hospital was a large imposing structure, \u00a0one Reuben had never seen inside before. \u00a0 He gripped tightly to Ben\u2019s hand as they entered through the vast doors, \u00a0and was glad to know that Bridie was right there beside him. \u00a0 Something about her presence gave him a comforting feeling, as though things really can\u2019t be that bad if she were there, with her soft Irish eyes and gentle smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben approached the reception desk and the woman there nodded and muttered something which meant Ben had to lean closer to her to hear what she had said, before he nodded and took hold of Reuben by the hand and turned away from the counter,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBridie, perhaps – if you could take care of Reuben here, and I\u2019ll go ahead -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, I want to come, I want to see Pa and Ma, please let me, please Grandpa, please take me with you. I don\u2019t want to stay here I want to come with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He knew \u00a0he was sounding like a whining kid, but just right then he felt like one, he felt like he wanted to run down those corridors and fling himself into his father\u2019s arms and be assured that everything was all right, everything was, perfectly, all right.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie put a hand on his shoulder, not restraining him, but just to assure him that she was there, closeby and that nothing was so very b ad, was it? \u00a0 But he knew, even at his young age, that things could be very wrong and that for some reason adults never let on just how bad.\u00a0 He wished right now that they would, that Ben would tell him exactly what had happened and why they were here instead of going to Dr Martin\u2019s comfortable old surgery.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A man strode towards them, paused and approached Ben, \u201cAre you Ben Cartwright?\u201d \u00a0he glanced from Ben to Bridie and nodded \u201cGood afternoon, Mrs Martin.\u00a0 Good to see you here. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie nodded equally as curtly in return and looked at Ben who promptly asked if the doctor could tell them how things were with the two Mrs Cartwrights and the man looked at Reuben very pointedly, \u00a0so that the boy squirmed, knowing that that look meant the man didn\u2019t want him there to hear anything.\u00a0 Again Bridie put a firm hand on his shoulder, but this time it felt heavy and cumbersome.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss had watched as their wives had been pushed through the doors beyond which they were not permitted to enter.\u00a0 They stood shoulder to shoulder as they had done so often in the past when difficulties had confronted them.\u00a0 But this was not so much a difficulty, it was something over which niether one of them had any control. \u00a0 \u00a0They had to bow to the words of others who professed to know better. They had to accept that they were ignorant and that the lives of those they loved \u00a0rested in the hands of people they didn\u2019t really know.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think it will \u00a0be long – before they tell us anything, Adam?\u201d Hoss asked in a very quiet voice, one that seemed to echo within his throat, and he turned to his brother with appeal in his eyes which faded when Adam had shaken his head, shrugged and sighed. \u00a0\u201cGuess we\u2019ll just have to wait then.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had nodded, \u00a0looked over to the window and walked to it.\u00a0 He had stood there, braced his legs apart and clasped his hands behind his back just as, years before, he had stood at the bridge of his ship when facing an incoming storm, wondering whether the frail vessel would survive the savagery of the seas.\u00a0 Only with this incoming storm he had no way of working out its outcome, working out a strategy to defeat it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had heard Hoss as his brother had sat down on one of the chairs that creaked.\u00a0 Most chairs did, before they settled to bear the man\u2019s weight.\u00a0 Neither of them wanted to think about what was happening beyond those doors\u2026.nor did they want to think of what could happen, what they would do, \u00a0in the future.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben and Bridie, with Reuben walking between them, holding tightly to their free hand, located the floor where Adam and Hoss were waiting for news concerning Olivia and Hester.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was struck by the dissimilarity in his sons in dealing with the situation\u2026Adam standing so still, \u00a0formidable, stoic while Hoss sat in the chair with his face buried in his hands, \u00a0every once in a while looking up to stare at the doors at the other end of the room and then bow his head back into his hands again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben felt his heart turn over and over, he couldn\u2019t stop himself as he released hold on the hands that had led him there but now ran, ran towards the figure of the man who stood facing out towards Sun Mountain, his shoulders squared and his hands clasped resolutely behind his \u00a0back.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel deQuille put the pen down on his desk and flicked through the pages of his notes. \u00a0 Pages upon pages that recorded the events of that afternoon. \u00a0 He felt tired to the bone, \u00a0longed for a drink of whiskey, a bottle at least. \u00a0 He put his hand to his brow and shook his head, \u00a0before standing up and taking \u00a0his notes to the stenographer to type out before it went to press.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t be long\u2026\u201d \u00a0he said quietly and left the building to go and stand outside, to smell the air, the feel the breeze in the hope that it would blow away the misery he had felt ever since he had witnessed that first attack from a neighbour upon another neighbour.\u00a0 He had seen it before, many times, covered countless saloon brawls, gun fights, \u00a0even a few cat fights when women had fallen out and ended rolling around in the street pulling each others hair, scratching and spitting and swearing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But this had been different, and he couldn\u2019t exactly put into words why he felt that way. \u00a0 It had just been a meeting that had ended up disorderly and in disarray.\u00a0 He shook his head and watched as Clem Foster \u00a0led young Richie Bellshaw to the Sheriffs office.\u00a0 He wondered why, in the face of so much trouble, they would be bothering with a little boy .<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He shivered.\u00a0 There had been injuries, \u00a0there could be fatalities.\u00a0 He felt at a loss, \u00a0he, the master of words, felt at a loss! He shook his head, and heaved in a deep sigh, then returned to the office.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He found a notebook, and picked up his pen\u2026there were interviews still to be conducted, \u00a0Lucy Garston for instance, and Peggy Dayton – although she seemed to have disappeared.\u00a0 He had already written down Amanda Ridley\u2019s account of events, and had had to delete a whole string of expletives \u2026 he had had to adjust his opinion of that lady over the past few hours!<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sound of approaching footsteps gave both men the time and opportunity to compose themselves so that by the time Ben, Reuben and Bridie arrived they had more or less removed the lines of misery upon their faces so that they could turn to them with blank features that belied the raging tempests of emotion roaring beneath the surface.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u00a0 Hoss?\u201d Ben\u2019s voice crackled with feeling, not exactly what either of his sons wanted at that moment, but they gave their parent a brief smile and nod of the head.<\/p>\n

Pa?\u00a0 Pa?\u201d \u00a0Reuben\u2019s voice, shrill and quavering and without pausing he ran to the man standing by the window, and threw his arms around his waist \u201cPa?\u00a0 Is Ma alright?\u00a0 She isn\u2019t – she isn\u2019t dead, is she?\u00a0 She isn\u2019t is she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

All his own fears were honestly displayed upon the child\u2019s face, and Adam drew in a sharp quavering breath and wrapped an arm around the boy . \u00a0 After a moment to compose himself further he pulled the boy away and then leaned down to his level, so that man and boy could look each other in the face, eye to eye.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben could see his father\u2019s eyes were red rimmed, and blood shot, he had never seen them like that before, \u00a0and he blinked rapidly just in case his own eyes were showing the same ravages of grief. \u00a0 He could barely breathe now as he waited for Adam to speak, the reassurance he needed to allay the fears that he had felt ever since he had seen Ben in the livery.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, \u00a0no, Reuben, what made you think that? Huh? \u00a0 No, \u00a0Mom isn\u2019t dead\u2026but she has been hurt, and the doctors are having to operate on her and Aunt Hester too.\u201d \u00a0he glanced over to Hoss, \u00a0who had sat down again with Bridie by his side, holding his hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOperate? \u00a0 But why isn\u2019t Uncle Paul doing it, Pa?\u00a0 Why did she have to come here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPaul had a lot of other people to attend to, son. \u00a0 Quite a number of people have been hurt \u2026.\u201d Adam explained, his voice, now it was being used strengthening.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut why?\u00a0 How did people get hurt, Pa? \u00a0 Will Mom be alright?\u00a0 Will she be coming home with us?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked up into Adams face, noticed the way his father blinked, swallowed and blinked again\u2026he pushed away \u201cShe isn\u2019t coming home, is she? \u00a0 She\u2019s going to die, isn\u2019t she?\u00a0 Like my daddy did\u2026.she\u2019s going to die and leave us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The tears burst forth like water that had been forced \u00a0back by a dam, \u00a0so that Ben stepped forward, hesitated as he remembered the child was not his to comfort, just yet. \u00a0 Adam squatted down and wrapped his arms around his son and drew him tightly towards him, he bowed his head so that it rested upon Reuben\u2019s shoulder, and if he did weep now, he kept his face hidden from view.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie squeezed Hoss\u2019 fingers \u201cHave they told you anything?\u00a0 Anything at all?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss shook his head and stared down at the floor, \u00a0\u201cNo, \u00a0nothing \u2026 just that we got to wait here and they\u2019ll tell us as soon as they can.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben approached and stood beside them, his face contorted as he thought of \u00a0the loss of his daughters, for that was how he felt for both these women, and Mary Ann too. \u00a0 His daughters, the girls he had never fathered, but beloved nevertheless. \u00a0 He drew in his breath and looked over Hoss\u2019 head to Bridie who nodded at him, \u00a0and just held onto Hoss\u2019 hand even more tightly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Footsteps and everyone tensed.\u00a0 Adam stood up and away from Reuben with his hand upon the boys shoulder, while Ben stood closer to Hoss who \u00a0gripped Bridie\u2019s hand so tightly the woman winced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But familiar figures appeared in the form of Paul Martin, followed closely by Jimmy Chang, both showing signs of fatigue and anxiety on their faces. \u00a0 They looked at the tableau before them, the grieving men, the child, and the woman wishing she could comfort them all and give them peace of mind. \u00a0 It was Bridie who spoke<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow is everything, Paul? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By everything she meant those who had been taken to the doctors surgery, victims with less serious injuries, men and women and perhaps children, she didn\u2019t know for sure, she had just hurried to be with the Cartwrights whom she felt were her family and with whom she knew she had to stay.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot as good as it could have been,\u201d Paul said gruffly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He came and stood beside her, and Jimmy came and stood beside Adam, \u00a0feeling rather out of place, wondering whether or not he should have come, but Adam shook his hand and smiled, thanked him for being there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat news?\u201d Jimmy asked in a low voice<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing yet.\u201d came the gruff reply and Adam squeezed Reuben\u2019s shoulder as though to reassure him that \u2019nothing yet\u2019 meant nothing to be afraid of, \u00a0nothing about which to worry overmuch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMrs Spencer died\u2026\u201d Paul said with a sigh in his voice, \u201cHeart attack.\u00a0 She should never have been there with that angina she\u2019s been suffering from, \u00a0\u2019Spence\u2019 warned her not to go but she was adamant.\u00a0 Mrs Riley got knocked out, \u00a0you know? \u00a0 She has a mild concussion, quietest I\u2019ve ever known her. \u201c he paused \u201cWhat a mess \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The newspaperman squared his shoulders and pushed open the neatly painted gate and walked along the neatly paved path to the Garstons front door.\u00a0 He heaved in a deep breath as he considered what to say should he be confronted by Mrs Garston.\u00a0 With some resolution he used the brightly polished door knocker to good effect and waited.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy Garston came to the door and looked at Daniel deQuille with tear filled eyes, but a defiant \u00a0look on her face. \u00a0 The red mark on her cheek bore a close resemblance to her mother\u2019s hand print and Daniel blanched slightly at the thought of facing Mrs Garston, \u00a0who suddenly appeared from behind Lucy and with a grip upon her daughter\u2019s shoulder pulled her away from the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The glossy painted door was slammed in his face.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel Greigson passed the canteen of water to Peggy and waited for her to drink enough to satisfy her. \u00a0 He had brought her to the Box \u00a0G and to the flat rock over the river that she had said she had an affinity for \u00a0the memories it held. \u00a0 He sat and waited for her to speak for she had not uttered a single word since regaining consciousness. \u00a0 All the way from town she had just stayed as still as possible and as silent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy returned the canteen and nodded \u201cThank you for that, \u00a0and for bringing me here.\u00a0 I really do appreciate it, I mean, that you brought me here, away from – from town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt looked like it was going to develop into quite a rough house.\u201d he said quietly as he put the canteen aside, \u201cGuess you never gave it a thought, did you?\u00a0 I mean, that it would turn out to be \u00a0so crazy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCrazy?\u201d she frowned, \u00a0and tried to remember the chaos that had broken out around her, \u201cCrazy!\u201d \u00a0 she nodded, yes, it had seemed to be heading that way, but she could barely remember what had happened, or how it had started.\u00a0 She turned to him, her face almost accusing, her eyes wide and surprised \u201cWhy did they react like that?\u00a0 Why did they become so – so hostile?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey didn\u2019t become hostile, Peggy, they were – a lot of them – already hostile.\u00a0 Quite a few came with the intention of causing trouble, \u00a0and when the talks started becoming personal\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, they didn\u2019t. \u00a0 how do you mean, became personal?\u201d she leaned back, away from him, \u00a0prepared to fight even then.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, \u00a0some comments that you made, and Amanda\u2026. You should have stuck to your speeches.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shook her head, she couldn\u2019t remember \u2026now she bowed her head and stared into the water, and frowned \u201cI can\u2019t remember. \u00a0 All I can recall is seeing the people there and thinking how angry they looked. \u00a0 There were some women who – \u201c she shivered and shook her head again \u201cI remember thinking \u2018this is how women looked at the execution of all those people during the French revolution\u2019 \u00a0\u201c \u00a0she turned to him \u201cDid \u00a0you know that women would \u00a0reserve seats in the front row, so that they could knit while the heads of the aristocrats were lopped off at the Guillotine?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled and shook his head, the thought crossed his mind that she was still in shock, that she couldn\u2019t come to terms with the fact that what had happened was clear evidence that people did not agree with \u00a0her, that suffrage was something that not everyone wanted. \u00a0 She frowned, \u00a0noticed stains on her dress, dirt and other things, which she tried to brush away with her hand, \u201cI should get back. \u00a0 Hester will be wondering where I am.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI thought you were staying with Amanda Ridley?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, that\u2019s right\u2026I was, wasn\u2019t I?\u201d she looked at him, and then sagged, \u00a0drooped, like a wilted lily when the sun had departed and the winds had began to blow, \u201cI\u2019m sorry, \u00a0I feel – odd.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOdd? \u00a0 Well, I guess you would at that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey said things about my father.\u00a0 Bad things.\u00a0 Lies\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, perhaps they weren\u2019t lies, you have to see things from other peoples perspectives, Peggy.\u00a0 Your father was your father, but to other people he was – what he was -\u201d \u00a0he placed a hand over hers and looked into her face \u201cWhy do you have to fight everything, and everyone, so hard, Peggy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBecause one has to, \u00a0to survive.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot always.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned away from her then, removed his hand and stared out over the river. \u00a0 She moved away, just an inch or two, so that there was a distance between them.\u00a0 She felt safer that way. \u00a0 Abel Greigson challenged her too much, \u00a0and she was finding that her resistance was weakening.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 56<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben had fallen asleep. \u00a0 He had not intended to, \u00a0it was just that for a little boy he had gone through \u00a0too much emotionally and now with the brooding silence in the room he had given out.\u00a0 It was easier to sleep than to listen to everyone just breathing, \u00a0or watching as one or other of them stood up, shook themselves as though trying to fling off an old garment and then walk to the window to stare out over to the mountain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nestled against his father\u2019s body he had listened to the resonant beat of the man\u2019s heart against his ear, and felt the comforting warmth of his arm around him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t know how long he had slept but when he opened his eyes Jimmy Chang had gone.\u00a0 Paul Martin was striding up and down while Ben stood by the window, \u00a0his dark brows knit over his heavy eyelids which hooded the dark sombre gaze of his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed; as was so often the case when he was emotionally challenged he dredged up to his mind poetry\u2026it had saved their sanity in Alaska, and helped during his long illness from the Kuril islands.\u00a0 He had his eyes closed as his memory scanned reams and reams of poetry and sometimes, just sometimes, dwelt upon the memories in which he had dipped into them before.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss would start up every so often, exclaim aloud at the length of time everything was taking, then \u00a0go over and over the events that had taken place to bring them to this situation now.\u00a0 Bridie\u2019s voice was soothing but eventually even she realised the man just needed to release his tensions by scouring through the minutiae of that afternoon.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf \u00a0Higgins had let \u2018em use his hall like promised, we could have checked over what they was bringing in.\u00a0 Aint\u2019 that right, Adam? \u00a0 We could have made sure no weapons were brung into the hall.\u00a0 Shucks, \u00a0even the wimmin could have been searched, that was the problem\u2026all them folk milling around, no one could see what they was bringing with \u2018em.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNate was aware that there would \u00a0be a problem,\u201d Ben said quietly, moving away from the window and approaching them now, \u00a0he looked at Reuben and gave a brief smile, a nod of the head. \u00a0 \u201cAt least being aware and doing something about it prevented worse happening.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, still wasn\u2019t enough\u2026.\u201d Hoss growled and sunk his face into his hands, cupped over his face, past the crying stage now, \u00a0just feeling the coils of anger and guilt that ate him up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was as good as it could be\u2026.\u201d Adam murmured as though waking from a deep sleep, \u201cWe all did what we could, but you are right, Hoss, if Higgins had kept the hall available we could have searched for weapons and the things they brought with them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere were so many people\u2026\u201d Hoss groaned, \u00a0and looked up as though seeing the crowds again, \u201cNever thought there would be so much interest in a Meeting about women.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie sighed \u201cI think the problem was that everyone under estimated how the women felt about this issue. \u00a0 I mean would you have suspected Mrs Spencer of concealing a weapon in her purse? \u00a0 Would you have searched through Widow Hawkins\u2019 bag \u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou saying they came armed to the meeting?\u201d Ben asked in alarm, and thought of the commodious bag that Clemmie Hawkins often touted around with her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I\u2019m just saying that you may have searched through the men’s possessions, and made sure they were disarmed, but I doubt if many of you would have demanded these women to permit their purses or bags or even their persons being examined.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey still had teeth\u2026\u201d Ben lamented and looked down gravely at his bandaged hand which brought a slight smile to Paul\u2019s face. \u00a0 A lull in the conversation followed that comment as everyone there began to think over the duties of the deputies, and just how thoroughly they had searched through the crowds.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe hauled quite a few men away who had concealed weapons\u2026.\u201d Adam muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t even look at the wimmin.\u201d Hoss groaned.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAccording to Peggy this meeting was to -\u201d Ben stopped speaking as the doors of the room opened and a white coated thin man approached, hesitated, looked at them all and then resolutely continued on his journey towards them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDr Wyngarde-\u201d he identified himself, and shook their hands, looked solemnly at Reuben as though to indicate he should not have been there and then looked at Adam \u201cMr Cartwright, \u00a0no doubt you would like to see \u00a0your wife now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam \u00a0was on his feet so fast that Reuben was nearly toppled off his seat, and had it not been for Bridie grabbing his arm he would have been on the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow is she? \u00a0 You\u2019ve had her in there for so long\u2026.is she badly hurt? Is she going to be alright?\u201d Adam was almost babbling, pouring out his fears and the anxieties he had been trying to suppress and which now spilled over.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Wyngarde put up a hand and smiled, but his smile didn\u2019t reach his eyes and Adam was not fooled so he hauled in a deep breath, before glancing down at Reuben who was now attached to his side, holding tight to his father\u2019s jacket in case Adam had forgotten he was there.\u00a0 Ben approached now, and stood beside them, his hand on Reuben\u2019s shoulder, ready to pull him away, aware that the Doctor would probably not permit the boy to enter the other room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr Cartwright, your wife sustained some injuries consistent to a severe – fall – \u00a0being trampled and also being in contact with some object, \u00a0a rock \u2026 minor abrasions, some breakage to the hand, the left hand, and some internal injuries which we had to check in case of bleeding.\u00a0 Thank goodness for womens corsets \u2026\u201d \u00a0he was obviously of a whimsical nature and liked to soften the bad news with humour, \u00a0he glanced at the man facing him, saw the dark eyes harden and nodded \u201cThe blow to the head caused us some concerns\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He noticed how everyone there suddenly went rigid, they all knew the dangers a blow to the head could cause, and now waited with apprehension as the Dr continued to speak, \u201cbut we can discuss that more in a moment, in more privacy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat does he mean, Pa?\u201d Reuben whispered but Adam shook his head, and moved to follow the doctor who paused and looked at the boy,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think your father needs to see your mother first, little boy, you stay here for a while, huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben bridled, little boy indeed, but he said nothing, but stepped back after releasing his hold on Adam\u2019s jacket hoping that Adam would look back at him, give him a smile, a wink, anything\u2026.but Adam didn\u2019t, he followed so close to the Doctors heels that he nearly stepped into his shoes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss sighed deeply, \u00a0and slumped back into his chair, Ben led Reuben back to his seat and sat down beside him while Bridie patted Hoss on the arm as though to reassure him that all would be well, he just had to be patient.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia was lying seemingly asleep, although Wyngarde whispered that she had had a lot of drugs \u00a0but should come out of this semi-conscious state soon.\u00a0 He led Adam to a corner of the room where they could talk without fear of the patient, upon awakening, being able to hear what was being said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But the sight of his wife lying so helpless on that bed had wrenched at Adam\u2019s heart.\u00a0 He couldnot keep his eyes from straying over to her sleeping form despite trying to pay attention to what Wyngarde was saying. \u00a0 There were bruises on what part of the body was exposed, \u00a0her hand and arm was bandaged to the elbow, \u00a0abrasions to her face had been neatly stitched but would leave scars, her mouth was swollen but the worse thing were the bandages that covered her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He listened, head bowed, eyes darting over to look at her, trying to assimilate the details of what Wyngarde was saying, \u00a0internal injuries were minimal they had checked for bleeding, \u00a0there were two ribs cracked but not broken, \u00a0her lungs were unimpaired.\u00a0 The main problem and concern was her eyesight. \u00a0 The loss of vision could be temporary due to concussion or it could be permanent.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you mean, permanent?\u00a0 Are you saying she\u2019s blind?\u201d \u00a0he heard himself saying the words, but not believing them, he couldn\u2019t even believe that he had said them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCurrently, yes. \u00a0 There was no visual response to the tests we \u00a0made, but as I said, it could \u00a0be temporary.\u00a0 I have to just mention here, Mr Cartwright, that if it is temporary, it doesn\u2019t mean that her vision will be as good as it had been.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, \u00a0he thought of Olivia\u2019s eyes, the \u00a0beauty and mystery of them, the way he could judge her moods by their colour, the cobwebs of eyelashes that would sweep over her cheekbones\u2026.oh she was so beautiful, he released a shuddering sigh and turned to look at her again \u201cIs that all, Doctor?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, \u00a0for now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd – can you give me any idea as to when she can come home?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Wyngarde raised his eyebrows and shook his head \u201cOh no, not for some while yet, Mr Cartwright. Your wife needs a lot of care and attention. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded, screwed up his eyes as though to stop them from tearing up, then nodded again \u201cI see. \u00a0 Can I stay here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe hospital has strict rules on visiting hours, Mr Cartwright.\u00a0 It would \u00a0be best if you kept to them.\u201d \u00a0 he paused and cleared his throat, anticipating an argument he leaned towards the other man in sympathy \u201cIt\u2019s for the best. \u00a0 The patient gets weary with visitors, \u00a0they try too hard to stay awake, to talk etcetera and then expend their energies which should be used for healing purposes. \u00a0 You do understand, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked at Adam as though the man was just one step above being an idiot, \u00a0then his face softened \u201cIt\u2019s also to your advantage as you\u2019ll see the progress she is making each visit, sometimes that isn\u2019t so obvious if you are here all the time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou made your point clear\u2026.\u201d Adam said quietly and walked over to the bed, \u201cHow long can I stay now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTen minutes \u2026\u201d \u00a0 Wyngarde walked to the door, glanced at the clock on the wall as though to draw Adam\u2019s attention to it, to ensure that he could tell the time but then he paused \u201cShe won\u2019t be alone. \u00a0 She\u2019ll be in the same room as her sister, \u00a0Mrs Hester Cartwright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester \u00a0\u2026 Adam remonstrated within himself, he hadn\u2019t even given her a thought, \u201cHow is she? How is Hester?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll just go and tell her husband, Mr Cartwright\u2026.\u201d Wyngarde replied, all prim and proper, and keeping to hospital rules.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, pulled out the chair beside the bed and sat down, reached for \u00a0the hand that lay upon the bed then remembered that it was damaged so merely brushed his fingers against the bandages before leaning towards her, \u00a0staring into that quiet \u00a0damaged face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He believed that he had fallen in love with her the moment he had first seen her, when she had been so cold, in that snow laden park, red woolly hat and scarf and her nose peeking over and nipped by the frost. \u00a0 Her eyes, so large, so green, so twinkling\u2026he had been reminded of those eyes when at sea, reminded of them so often.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He leaned forwards and his fingers gently stroked her cheek, traced the outline of the contours of her face. \u00a0 He very gently kissed her lips, swollen though they were and whispered,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSee the mountains kiss \u00a0high heaven<\/p>\n

And the waves clasp one another.<\/p>\n

No sister flower would be forgiven<\/p>\n

If it disdained its brother.<\/p>\n

And the sunlight clasps the earth<\/p>\n

And the moonbeams kiss the sea;<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What is all this sweet work worth<\/p>\n

If thou kiss not me?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026…..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Wyngarde\u2019s re-entry to the waiting room was received with exclamations of impatience and anxiety in equal measure. \u00a0 He nodded over to Dr Martin and Bridie, and then turned to Ben and Hoss.\u00a0 He ignored Reuben\u2019s glower \u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHoss Cartwright?\u201d \u00a0he looked at the worried face before him, he was a short man so Hoss towered over him. \u00a0 Most men would \u00a0have been intimidated but Wyngarde carried the power of life and death in his hands and was not intimidated by anyone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome with me, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAt last.\u201d Hoss groaned, and stepped away from his anxious father, his worried friends and frightened nephew. \u00a0\u201cHow is she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cProbably a lot better than you imagine her to be\u2026.\u201d Wyngarde said with a slight smile, he felt more warmly disposed towards this frightened looking red eyed tear streaked man than to the other Cartwright who had regarded him with nothing short of hostility and suspicion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He pushed open the doors to a small room where Hoss could see immediately a bed whereupon his wife was lying as though asleep.\u00a0 He clutched at the Doctors arm, was about to whisper \u201cShe aint dead?\u201d then remembered what the man had said earlier and forced his breathing to remain calm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her golden red hair was curling over her shoulder, a brightness against the white pillows and sheets. \u00a0 Her eyelids fluttered, her lips moved as though she were whispering to him and he leaned over and kissed her immediately despite Wyngarde\u2019s clearing his throat right behind him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester remained where she was, in that her dreams had taken her \u00a0far away, to somewhere beyond pain. \u00a0 Wild flowers in glorious colours swayed to the softest breeze, \u00a0clouds scudded over the blue sky and it was warm, pleasant upon her skin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Wyngarde waited patiently for the man to tear himself away from his wife\u2019s bedside and then glanced at the sheets of paper in his hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHester -\u201d he smiled as Hoss looked at him and smiled, the relief so obvious on his face that Wyngarde felt another wave of friendliness towards the big man, \u201cShe\u2019s got a fracture of the tibia, two broken ribs, and multiple bruising.\u00a0 It could have been a lot worse but one can thank the instincts that drove Mrs Olivia Cartwright to protect \u00a0your wife.\u00a0 She bore the brunt of the unfortunate assault you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded, he understood only too well the debt he owed Adam\u2019s wife, \u00a0and sighed.\u00a0 After a moment he whispered \u201cAnd is she going to be alright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn time. \u00a0 We need to keep her under observation. \u00a0 \u00a0She\u2019ll be in the same room as her sister.\u201d \u00a0he frowned slightly, rolled his eyes, and shook his head, \u201cNow, she isn\u2019t entirely out of the woods yet.\u00a0 She has a concussion, \u00a0a slight fracture to the base of the skull\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss gulped, \u00a0Joe had suffered those same injuries and had got amnesia, he looked at Wyngarde and felt panic \u201cShe will remember everything, she won\u2019t have lost her memory only my brother did when it happened to him recently and\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, calm down some\u2026.Mrs Cartwright will be under observation here for some time yet.\u00a0 She won\u2019t be released from care until she is 100% fit \u2026or perhaps 95% if that is alright by you?\u201d \u00a0 a whimsical smile, Hoss wasn\u2019t sure if he was supposed to smile back but did anyway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan I stay with her now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust five minutes\u2026\u201d \u00a0 Wyngarde checked the clock and nodded, that should be ample he thought.\u00a0 The two Cartwrights could leave at the same time and things in the hospital could return to normal.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There had been other casualties to the events of that day, among them \u00a0two deaths, and one woman who would never be the same again. \u00a0 He shook his head, \u00a0and quietly left the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss almost tip toed over to the woman on the bed. \u00a0 He held her hand very gently in his own, for Hoss of all people knew how to be very gentle. \u00a0 \u201cHester? \u00a0 \u00a0Did I ever tell you lately how lovely you are?\u00a0 How much I love you? \u00a0 I reckon you must be the most loveliest woman on this earth. \u00a0 God sure knew what He was a-doing of to send \u00a0you to Virginia City all that time along\u2026.shucks, I love you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He clung to her hand, burst into tears and blustered.\u00a0 Thoughts of losing her had been too strong, too much to bear\u2026the dam burst and he couldn\u2019t hold the tears back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 57<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia wasn\u2019t sure exactly what was going on, but a little worm of anxiety was slowly wiggling its way around her stomach and making her feel sick.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had been enjoying her \u00a0time with Rosie and David, and Nathaniel had got on well with little Samuel although he had at times drifted over to play with the girls and been told to \u2018go away and play with the baby.\u2019 \u00a0 \u00a0 Because he was in unfamiliar surroundings he made no fuss and did as he was told, having noticed that the toddler got a lot of attention \u00a0and cookies.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It had been a delightful afternoon. \u00a0 The fact that Reuben had gone off to town to join with the gang instead of going fishing with Uncle Joe hadn\u2019t worried her at all.\u00a0 She relished having Rosie as her friend now, and the little girls had played hoops, had made a den in the overgrown part of the garden, \u00a0paddled in the little stream that ran through and had a cookie and tea morning with their favourite dolls.\u00a0 It had been all the better for the weather being so bright and warm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Aunty Ann was fun too, \u00a0she had read stories, \u00a0joined them for a little while with the tea party, bunching up her skirts and coming to sit down on the grass with them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But then things had changed when Uncle Candy had arrived back home.\u00a0 He hadn\u2019t even said a greeting to anyone but strode into the house, didn\u2019t remove his hat but grabbed Ann by the elbow and ushered her into the other room before closing the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After a little while they had heard Aunty Ann give a wail, such a sound that both the little girls reached out to grab at the other\u2019s hand and held tightly to it.\u00a0 David had stopped what he was doing and hurried over to stand beside his sister, while the little ones, Nathaniel and Samuel, had glanced up towards the door and continued with their play as though odd sounds from other rooms was nothing unusual in their world.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After a little while Candy had come out, looked at them and sighed, before coming to Sofia and placing a gentle \u00a0hand upon her arm squatted down to her level \u201cSofia, \u00a0I have to go and see Aunty Mary Ann and Uncle Joe about something important.\u00a0 Aunty Ann will explain in a moment \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He wished he were more able to communicate with children but they rather unnerved him, he gave his daughter a brief smile and patted her on the head, muttered something about \u2018being good\u2019 and hurried out of the house.\u00a0 The little girls looked at one another and then made a dash for the door to the other room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ann was wiping her eyes, standing by the window and staring out through watery eyes, before she realised they were there.\u00a0 It was Rosie saying \u201cMa, is everything alright?\u00a0 What\u2019s happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

That was when the wiggles started up in Sofia\u2019s tummy and she felt her chest getting very tight.\u00a0 She looked around the room, as t hough somewhere there was a clue that would help her through whatever it was that Aunty Ann was going to tell her. \u00a0 As it was nothing leaped out to give her any help whatsoever, so she clung more tightly to Rosie\u2019s hand and waited.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ann blew her nose very delicately and dabbed at her eyes, before coming to wards them and taking hold of Sofia by the hand led the child to a chair \u00a0upon which she sat, drawing the little girl closer to her side with her arm around her waist.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSofia, you know that Aunty Hester -\u201d she paused and cleared her throat, tears welled up in her eyes<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs Aunty Hester dead?\u201d Sofia asked in a very shaky voice<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, \u00a0she\u2019s not dead nor is your \u00a0Momma.\u201d \u00a0Ann paused, saw the shadow of fear flicker across the child\u2019s face \u201cThey were hurt, that\u2019s all.\u201d her face crumpled, and she batted her eyelids frantically to stop tears falling, dabbed at her cheeks again, \u201cThere was trouble at the meeting they went to\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy\u2019s meeting?\u201d Sofia said in what she thought was a very grown up voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that\u2019s right.\u00a0 But they were hurt, and your daddy and Uncle Hoss are staying in town with them because they are in hospital.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy\u2019s in hospital?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo – yes – well, your Mommy and Aunty Hester are hurt and in hospital and your daddy and Uncle Hoss are staying in town to be with them.\u00a0 To make sure they get better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre they -\u201d \u00a0Sofia felt her stomach lurch, she swallowed hard \u201cAre they very hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA bit – yes – but they will get better.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey will?\u00a0 And then they will come home?\u201d \u00a0Sofia looked into her Aunt\u2019s face and saw the tears \u00a0in the woman\u2019s eyes and then turned and ran out of the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mommy hurt!\u00a0 In a hospital? \u00a0 The words drummed through her head and made it spin, she felt tears running down her cheeks and dashed at them with her fingers, but still she ran on, splashing through the little stream and not minding that her shoes \u00a0got wet, she ran on until she could run no further, but fell down upon the grass and sobbed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was still sobbing when Nathaniel found her and sat down by her side.\u00a0 He looked at his sister\u2019s heaving shoulders as she lay flat on her stomach in the grass, and put a dimpled hand upon her back.\u00a0 Just a light touch of a hand, warm and gentle.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t say anything because being so little he didn\u2019t know what to say, what to ask\u2026he just sat there, his hand on her back, waiting until she stopped crying and could tell him that everything was alright, like Mommy would have done had she been there.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben had left the hospital with Ben. \u00a0 He had been reluctant to leave the building, even more so because he had not been permitted in to see his Mother which led him to imagine her injuries which in turn made him feel miserable to the extreme.\u00a0 He kept his head bowed so that no one could see his face, the tears, the swollen eyes. \u00a0 He didn\u2019t want to speak because he didn\u2019t think his voice would manage to get through his throat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss had talked in low voices with Paul, Ben and Bridie leaving the boy sitting on the \u00a0uncomfortable chair and feeling more isolated and guilty than ever.\u00a0 He kept trying to catch his father\u2019s eyes but failed at every attempt.\u00a0 He felt a very alone, very frightened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had finally come over to him, sat beside \u00a0him and wrapped his arm around him to give him a brief hug before sitting back to observe the boy. \u00a0 Reuben looked up, saw the blank face, the dark hazel eyes<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s alright, Reuben, Ma\u2019s going to get through this -\u201d his voice wavered, and Reuben wondered if his father\u2019s throat was tight as well.\u00a0 They looked at one another, neither able to say anything nor smile reassuringly, they just looked and then Adam swept him up again into a hug and got to his feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben came and Reuben, head down observing the floor, recognised the familiar boots planted right under his nose. He looked up and wondered if Ben, during that chat by the window, had told Adam about what had happened, how he and the Gang had disobeyed and stayed in town.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, Reuben.\u00a0 Time for us to go\u2026\u201d Ben said very firmly, \u201cUp you get now, \u00a0we have to collect your sister and brother from Aunt Ann\u2019s before we get \u00a0home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you -\u201d he turned to Adam \u201care you coming back too, Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot right now, there\u2019s things that I need to do here first.\u201d Adam replied in a firmer voice, as though Ben\u2019s presence had put some steel into him, he did smile however and gave his son a wink, before he turned back to Hoss and Paul.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie came and looked down at the boy, she smoothed back an unruly lock of hair and smiled \u201cYour Mother and Aunt are here for observation, \u00a0that\u2019s all.\u00a0 Once the doctors think they are strong enough then they will come home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey aren\u2019t dying?\u201d Reuben whispered<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, no, nothing like that, nothing for \u00a0you to worry about like that\u2026.\u201d she assured him, and noticed the way he glanced over at Adam and Hoss \u201cWe didn\u2019t know at first how badly hurt they were, \u00a0but it will be alright, dear, it will just take time for bones to mend and bruises to heal. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLike that time the Downing boy shot me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, \u00a0only not as bad as that\u2026\u201d she attempted a smile, and glanced up at Ben who nodded and put a hand to the boys elbow to lead him away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBye., Pa\u2026Uncle Hoss\u2026see you soon.\u201d the boy called out from the doorway and then paused as the two men stopped talking to turn to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He wanted to be brave and walk out of the door with Grandpa, but he couldn\u2019t, he released Ben\u2019s hold on his hand and turned, ran to wards his father and flung his arms around his legs \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Pa, truly I am.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam frowned, looked over at Ben then down at the boy, he ruffled Reuben\u2019s hair, \u201cThere\u2019s \u00a0nothing for you to be sorry about, son. \u00a0 This has nothing to do with you.\u00a0 Just go home with Granpa and we will be back as soon as possible.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben looked up, saw the gentle expression on his father\u2019s face, realised this was not the right time for confession, \u00a0and then stepped back \u201cWill you tell Ma, tell her I love her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, assured him that he would, told him to be good, and watched as the child walked slowly back to Ben, cast a last look over his shoulder at his father, before leaving the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The door swung shut with a soft thud.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 58<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Mayor was not the forgiving kind, apart from which he was too often beaten by Amanda Ridley during the private poker sessions that were held in town for him not to bear a grudge. \u00a0 He chose this moment to take advantage of the situation and \u00a0pressed charges against her while at the same time insisting that Nate didn\u2019t release her on bail .<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate listened to the Mayors tirade and said nothing although he was pondering on \u00a0reminding the man that he had been at the Meeting from the start and had done nothing to placate the crowd, and that he had witnesses that would testify upon seeing the Mayor pick up a missile and cast it rather forcibly to wards the platform.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Mayor did not stay long enough for Nate to say anything, being an intuitive man, he had recognised the gleam in the Sheriff\u2019s eye and knew when to beat a hasty retreat.\u00a0 He did just that, and slammed the door behind him for good measure.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Clem sighed \u201cWhat are you going to do about him?\u00a0 Most of those we have in the cells have told me they saw him encouraging the violence – which was why Miss Ridley took up the rifle.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d Nate nodded and looked at the charge sheet on the desk \u201cThis isn\u2019t worth the paper it\u2019s written on. \u00a0 Still it won\u2019t hurt Amanda to cool down in the cell overnight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get some of her cell mates to write out their statements \u2026\u201d Clem said and grinned, \u201cThe Mayor seems to have too \u00a0big an opinion of his status\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think his status has just about been blown wide open.\u201d Nate replied and took his seat behind his desk, rubbed his face and \u00a0yawned. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019ll be glad when this day is over.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In that, he was not alone.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia and Nathaniel were both asleep when Ben and Reuben arrived at Ann Canadays. \u00a0 They didn\u2019t hear the sound of the buggy or the horses arriving at the house, nor \u00a0Reuben calling them. \u00a0 Ben eventually found them both, Sofia with her arm around her little brother as though making sure he was safe, and the little boy with his head on her chest, so sound asleep that he didn\u2019t even wake up when Ben leaned down to pick him up and carry him to the buggy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben shook his sister\u2019s shoulder and although she murmured several times for him to leave her alone she eventually opened her eyes, then upon recognising Reuben she became immediately alert.\u00a0 She sat up, stared at him and then blinked, \u201cWhy do you look funny?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFunny?\u201d he said and frowned, \u00a0\u201cI don\u2019t look funny.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you do.\u00a0 Your eyes are all red and funny looking and \u2026\u201d she paused, memory of what Ann had told her trickled into awareness, she bowed her head \u201cOh Reuben, \u00a0oh, is it true?\u00a0 Is Mommy hurt? Really hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t see her.\u00a0 That doctor wouldn\u2019t let me.\u00a0 He said I wasn\u2019t allowed because I was just a child.\u201d Reuben bristled and narrowed his eyes and \u00a0his lips thinned \u201cI wanted to see her, I asked Pa but Pa said hospitals have rules. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut what about Mommy?\u201d \u00a0she swallowed tears, they trickled down her throat and lodged there for a moment, \u201cWhat about Daddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben reappeared now, she could see him over Reuben\u2019s shoulder and hurried to her feet.\u00a0 With her arms outstretched she ran to him, held him tightly around the waist while he leaned forwards a little to stroke her hair and pat her back \u201cMommy will be alright, Sofia, she\u2019ll be home soon.\u00a0 Just not yet, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut she will come home, won\u2019t she?\u201d she looked up at him, full confidence and faith in whatever he said because Ben had always been her special Granpa, even before they had even really known Adam.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, she\u2019ll be well looked after at the hospital. \u00a0 When she is strong enough I\u2019ll be able to take you into town to see her.\u201d \u00a0he paused \u201cBut your father will be home before then, he\u2019ll be able to tell you more.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He lifted her up into the cradle of his arms and carried her to the buggy where Nathaniel was curled up on the back seat, \u00a0and here it was that he gently set her down.\u00a0 Ann Canaday, Rose and David came to stand at the gate and wave them good bye, but all of them looked solemn, and Sofia thought she had never seen her Aunt Ann look so sad.\u00a0 She slipped her hand into that of Reuben\u2019s and in silence they sat there together while Ben set the buggy in motion.\u00a0 Cinnamon and Max trotted obediently behind the vehicle.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann and Joe were at the house when Ben arrived. \u00a0 They had taken the little girls and Erik home to the Ponderosa where Hop Sing was giving them supper and promised to take care of them until they returned.\u00a0 Joe had deemed it better to say nothing to the children except that Hester was staying in town and when Hannah had said \u201cWith Bridie?\u201d they hadn\u2019t corrected her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel was awake when they arrived at the house and he was delighted to see Daniel. \u00a0 Someone else to play with, and totally unaware of the dark clouds hovering over them \u00a0he ran away to his playmate, never wondering for a moment as to how he had arrived home when he had fallen asleep in Ann\u2019s garden with Sofia.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little Constance sat looking as pretty as ever but regarded everything and everyone with the solemnity of her age.\u00a0 She looked like a doll with big eyes watching all that was going on around her. \u00a0 Mary Ann carried her into the house while Joe went with Ben into the stable to see to the horses.\u00a0 Reuben dithered, he knew if he went to join his Uncle and Grandfather the conversation would stop and they would make polite false comments to him that meant nothing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He trailed into the house behind Mary Ann and Sofia, and then stood in the big room and looked around him, felt overwhelmed by all that had happened and burst into tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia blinked, felt her nose filling with tears, and then her eyes and within seconds was following her brother\u2019s example, crying so piteously that Mary Ann was not sure which of the two she should attend to first.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the stable Ben provided Joe with all the information at his disposal, answering his questions as best he could while knowing that it wouldn\u2019t be enough.\u00a0 Joe tried to be patient but found it hard, \u00a0his eyes watched the expressions on his father\u2019s face to gauge the seriousness of his comments, \u00a0and when Ben had said all that he could say, Joe nodded and cursed the day Peggy Dayton had ever set foot on the Ponderosa.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t entirely Peggy\u2019s fault, Joe.\u201d Ben cautioned his son fairly, \u201cShe believes in this cause of hers, and so did Lucy and Amanda, sufficiently enough to take part in the whole thing. Amanda arranged for the outside assembly, which in its turn was the problem because no one could fully check on what weapons were bring brought to it.\u00a0 Nate and the deputies did their best, but no one suspected that so many decent law abiding men and women would react so violently.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt just takes \u00a0a few\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, it does.\u00a0 The fear sets in and people react, common sense just disappears -\u201d he \u00a0paused then and looked at Joe kindly, he put his hand on the other mans arm \u201cJust be grateful Mary Ann was not there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI do.\u00a0 As soon as Candy told me about what had happened I was so glad she was safe here \u2026and so was she.\u201d he rubbed his chin with his fingers, and cast around nervously to look at something other than his father\u2019s face, he cleared his throat, \u201cHow were they?\u00a0 Lucy and Amanda – and Peggy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben frowned, thought for a moment as he tried to recollect what he had seen and what he could remember being told. \u00a0\u201cWell, Amanda was alright, Clem took her to the Sheriff\u2019s office once they had taken the rifle off her. \u00a0 She seemed unharmed, and Lucy fainted\u2026I do recall Adam carrying her over to Mr Garston but before that things had got really out of hand. \u00a0 \u00a0I can\u2019t remember what happened to Peggy. \u201c \u00a0he frowned and shook his head \u201cShe was on the platform one moment and then I never saw her again.\u201d \u00a0he shrugged and looked a little lost in reminiscence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe merely nodded, \u00a0he turned to wards the stalls and ran a hand along Cinnamons neck, \u201cAre you staying here ?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUntil Adam gets home\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow long will he be in town?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe and Hoss are staying with Paul and Bridie tonight, \u00a0then see how things are with – with -\u201d he paused, cleared his throat, suddenly found himself short of breath and had to turn away \u201cit\u2019s alright, Adam and Hoss should be back tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn that case Mary Ann and I will go back and keep an eye on the girls and Erik \u2026\u201d Joe reached out and touched his father on the arm, gave a nod of the head \u201cAre the children alright?\u00a0 Do they understand what\u2019s happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSofia just knows her mother has been hurt but Reuben \u2026he has an idea of what has happened, \u00a0he came to the hospital with me.\u00a0 I think he blames himself..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben opened his mouth then decided to close it, and say nothing, he shrugged instead and said off handedly \u201cWell, children do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe just nodded, accepted that his father was holding something back but didn\u2019t pursue the matter, \u00a0He turned away and walked back to the house where he found his wife with Sofia on her lap, crying into her shoulder and Reuben – was no where to be seen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t hard to find the boy, he was in his own room where he had thrown himself across his bed and buried his face into the pillows.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t look up when the door opened, and then closed.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t until Joe\u2019s hand touched his shoulder that he moved, and tried to do the manly thing of sitting up, squaring his shoulders and sniffing back the tears.\u00a0 He blinked when Joe held out a square of cloth, a handkerchief, and upon this he wiped his face and blew his nose.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFeeling bad, huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t get to see Ma.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo. \u00a0 Hospitals are like that, they have rules, they don\u2019t seem to think children – even those as old as yourself – need to be considered.\u00a0 They don\u2019t mean any harm.\u00a0 Just the way they keep control of the system I guess.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey didn\u2019t let Pa stay long\u2026just long enough to see her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that\u2019s better than nothing, isn\u2019t it?\u201d \u00a0Joe glanced around the room \u201cMind if I sit?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t wait for an answer but pulled the chair over to sit beside the bed and look at the boy.\u00a0 He frowned, \u00a0and nodded \u201cYour Pa is going to depend on you when he gets home tomorrow. \u00a0 He\u2019ll want your \u00a0help around here, with Sofia and Nathaniel and getting chores done an\u2019 everything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nodded, and frowned.\u00a0 He couldn\u2019t understand why Uncle Joe was talking about normal things when everything was so out of order. \u00a0 He heaved in a deep breath. \u00a0 \u00a0\u201cAunt Hester was hurt too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo I heard.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBridie said it was like when I got hurt that time, when the Downing Kid shot me, you know?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI remember\u2026\u201d Joe nodded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBridie said it just takes time for everything to heal and then Ma and Aunt Hester will be alright again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, so they will\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy \u00a0nodded and looked down at his boots, for a moment there was silence and then he said \u201cUncle Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Reuben?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI – I was there – I was in the town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI guess you were\u2026\u201d Joe frowned \u201cWeren\u2019t you going to go swimming?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI did go swimming,\u201d Reuben nodded, and heaved in a deep breath again, \u201cBut the Gang didn\u2019t want to go and so I went into town.\u00a0 We hid under the sidewalk\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh.\u201d \u00a0Joe frowned, nodded \u201cI can remember doing just the same when I was a kid.\u00a0 There\u2019s just enough room between the ground and the sidewalk for \u00a0a bolt hole\u2026Mitch and I used to \u00a0hide there whenever we thought we would be able to see a gun fight, \u00a0or sometimes just to see what was going on without our being seen.\u00a0 It was rather like having a private view on the world without anyone else knowing\u2026.\u201d he smiled as though the memories were pleasant ones.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid \u00a0you – did you ever take fire crackers with you and – or – I mean -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe \u2018s nimble brain caught on to what was being left unsaid, he paused, then nodded<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOnce or twice, well, perhaps more times than that\u2026\u201d he frowned, \u201cOf course we shouldn\u2019t have but Mitch was able to get hold of them from the Chinese lads he hung around with., sometimes if it got boring and nothing was happening we would light them and throw them into the street, usually if there was -\u201d \u00a0he stopped himself, frowned and shook his head \u201cbest not tell you anymore, don\u2019t want you getting ideas and getting yourself into trouble. \u00a0 My Pa used to tan me good and hard at times \u2026 \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid he?\u201d Reuben\u2019s eyes went round.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, he did. \u00a0 There were times when you Pa tanned me as well\u2026you have to remember your Pa is quite a bit older than me.\u00a0 He was a man by the time I went to school. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGosh.\u00a0 I never thought about that\u2026\u201d \u00a0Reuben frowned, he slumped back into his pillows. \u00a0\u201cUncle Joe, \u00a0Pa told me to go swimming and when I went into town with the boys we hid under the sidewalk, and – and one of them took firecrackers.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUh-huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t me or Jimmy\u2026.nor Tommy\u2026and I didn\u2019t know what they intended to do with them, I mean, if they were going to throw \u2018em out and cause trrouble, but me and Jimmy and Tommy ran off soon as there was a lot of shouting, so we didn\u2019t get to see what happened to t he fire crackers.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell then, in that case, you haven\u2019t anything to blame yourself for, have you?\u00a0 You can\u2019t sit here and punish yourself for something \u00a0you didnt do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben shook his head \u201cI did obeyed my Pa.\u00a0 I broke my promise to him.\u00a0 He\u2019ll be mad at me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, perhaps not.\u00a0 I think just for now he has a lot more things that are more important on his mind. \u00a0 When the time is right, tell him what you told me, he\u2019ll understand.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I was wrong, wasn\u2019t I?\u201d \u00a0 Reuben looked at his Uncle and Joe sighed, nodded,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, \u00a0it is wrong to be disobedient, and it is wrong to break promises.\u00a0 Thing is, Reuben, \u00a0what\u2019s done is done\u2026\u201d he stood up and put the chair back against the wall, \u201cNow then, why not come down and get yourself some supper.\u00a0 Sofia will need to see you, and so will your Grandpa, he\u2019s worried about you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nodded and sighed \u201cWere you ever disobedient and things, Uncle Joe?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho?\u00a0 Me?\u00a0 What do you think?\u201d Joe said and suppressed a grin \u2026after all, it would never do for Reuben to get the wrong idea.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 59<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Otis Fleming dismounted from his horse and led it by its rein to where Abel Greigson was standing fixing the harness to a horse that he had needed to take the buggy back to town. Otis had worked for the Box G for some years now and was a trusted and reliable hand, so Abel was pleased to see him although the smile faded when he saw the furrows on the older man\u2019s brow<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou intending to go into town with that gal?\u201d Otis jerked his head in the direction of Peggy Dayton who was standing by a big tree that grew opposite the ranch house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe can\u2019t stay here.\u201d Abel replied, \u201cShe was staying with Miss Ridley so -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Ridley\u2019s in jail. The Sheriff done arrest her for pulling a rifle on the Mayor.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, that\u2019s not good.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNope\u2026and if\u2019n you don\u2019t mind taking some advice from an old man, I reckon that you might reconsider taking her into town. The folk there are liable to string her up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be so ridiculous.\u201d Abel walked to the other side of the horse and after stroking its nose began to check the buckles on the harness<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI ain\u2019t being ridiculous. Some lady died as a result of the mess that gal created, with her speechifying – and the Cartwright women are in hospital..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Cartwright women?\u201d Abel\u2019s head snapped up and he clamped his mouth together while a scowl descended like a cloud over his face \u201cWhich Cartwright women are you meaning – speak plain, man?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMrs Adam Cartwright and Mrs Hoss Cartwright – that plain enough? Shucks, Abel, you got your hands full with that one alright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel shook his head, then glanced over to where Peggy was now leaning against the tree.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t know the Cartwright women were there, I didn\u2019t see them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNope, guess your eyes were only on one person, huh? Wal, they was injured and are in hospital.\u201d Otis rubbed his chin, narrowed his eyes \u201cCould die so they says\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel swallowed hard, rubbed his jaw with his hand and then looked over towards the ranch house. He then thanked Otis for bringing him the news and turned to walk over to where Peggy was waiting for him. She turned immediately and gave a brief smile,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI had a swing fixed here.\u201d she said quietly, \u201cWhen my Daddy died I sat here and counted to a hundred, I was so sure that by the time I had reached a hundred he would arrive home. He always had done before, you see, so I didn\u2019t realise that this time it was different. I don\u2019t know how many hundreds I counted in the end before realisation dawned.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Something about the look of him, the slump of the shoulders, made her stop talking, she pushed herself away from the tree and squared her shoulders \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong? Has something happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t take you into town, Peggy. Miss Ridleys in the cells and -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOlivia and Hester Cartwright are in hospital, seriously injured -\u201d he stopped at the way she paled, the colour drained from her face and she staggered slightly as though she were about to topple over. His hand reached out immediately to grab at her and steady her up while he then waited for her to recover.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She reached out for the tree trunk with her hand, and upon touching it stepped back to lean upon it. Something solid at her back, something she could rely on not letting go. She looked frightened, like a child, and Abel felt a surge of sympathy for her even though the problems she faced, he felt, were entirely her own fault.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI need to see them.\u201d she whispered<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t, they\u2019re in hospital and I doubt very much if Adam or Hoss would want you near them just now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut – I have to see them, don\u2019t you imderstand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, and quite honestly I think you\u2019re being mighty selfish even thinking you have a right to see them. From what Otis heard things aren\u2019t good, and you wouldn\u2019t be welcome in town just now. Look,\u201d he put a hand on her arm and frowned at her to get her to look at him, \u201cI\u2019m saying this for your own good, do you hear me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen I need to see Mary Ann, or Ben -\u201d she gripped his hand which was still on her arm, \u201cPlease, Abel, will you take me there? To the Ponderosa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou serious? You really want to go there and face them after -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, please. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t expect to get a warm welcome do you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook, Abel Greigson, I didn\u2019t hurt Hester or Olivia. It wasn\u2019t my fault that they were there, was it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked at her, glared at her, and she had to step back, stopping only when the tree bark hit against her, he then sighed and shook his head<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy else would they have been there? Because of you, Peggy, because of this stupid cause you were ranting on about, because they wanted to support you by being there. Of course it was because of you -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you saying -\u201d she paused and stopped, felt tears well up and spill over, then splash upon her dress.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester and Olivia, neither of them had given her any support for the cause, but Hester had promised because she, Peggy, had asked her, almost begged her to attend the meeting. She could hear her voice now \u201cOh please come, Hester. No one else will be there. Mary Ann won\u2019t be, and I doubt if Olivia will – it would help me so much, Hester if even one Cartwright would show those people they were my friend.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And Hester had said that she didn\u2019t really think it was the right time, nor that Peggy and her associates were going about it the right way – why not just write a few editorials about the cause, get people familiar with the idea she had suggested and then she had smiled, agreed to come and said she would persuade Olivia to come to.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She turned away from Abel, felt his hand drop away from her arm, heard him walking away back to the buggy. She could remember seeing them now, Olivia and Hester, standing in the front of the crowd, Hester in her blue dress and a little bonnet on her golden red curls and Olivia in dove grey, with its neat white collar, her hair braided like a coronet around her head. They had been standing there at the forefront of the crowd looking expectantly up at the speakers who had come onto the platform to talk down to them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAbel – please – take me to the Ponderosa.\u201d she picked up her skirts and ran, her feet almost scampering over the grass to where the buggy awaited her with the patient horse all harnessed up and ready to go.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was dark by the time Abel\u2019s buggy drew up outside Adam\u2019s house. They had gone to the main house first and been told by Hop Sing that Ben was looking after Adam\u2019s children in their own home. Peggy had hesitated momentarily, wondering whether it would be better to leave any confrontation with Ben until the next day, but Abel was waiting patiently and said he would take her along to the other property, so, rather reluctantly she accepted his offer and clambered back into the buggy<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was sitting by the small fire, staring down into the flames, nursing his pipe as he thought over the days events. The knock on the door startled him and he paused a moment to see if there would be another knock, upon which he did get to his feet and walked over to pull the door open.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy?\u201d his dark brows rose and then his eyes looked over her shoulder and recognised Abel, \u201cGreigson.\u201d he nodded, and then stepped back \u201cCome on in.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy, followed by Abel, stepped into the big room immediately and then swung round to grab at Ben\u2019s hand \u201cOlivia? Hester? Is it true? Are they hurt? Will theygoing to be alright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel pushed the door shut with one hand while with the other he ushered Peggy further into the room and to where she could sit down on the settee, he himself remained standing, his hat now in his hand. Ben glanced at them both, gestured to a chair for Abel to be seated<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI won\u2019t be staying, Mr Cartwright, just want to know how the ladies are, is all?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded, \u201cThank you, Abel.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The old man now looked at Peggy and sighed, then sat down, leaned forward a little \u201cPeggy, both Olivia and Hester are in hospital, with injuries due to the – riot – that took place at your meeting – \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, so sorry, I didn\u2019t think it could happen in Virginia City, I thought -\u201d she burst into tears and buried her face in her hands \u201cI\u2019m so sorry, Ben.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not me you should apologise to, Miss.\u201d Ben said more abruptly than he meant, \u201cThere were a lot of injuries incurred at that meeting. Oh I\u2019ve no right to say it was your fault, that was unfair of me, but perhaps if you had cancelled it when Higgins had stopped you having the hall\u2026 \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAmanda didn\u2019t want to lose face, she said that Higgins -\u201d Peggy\u2019s shoulders slumped, and she shook her head \u201cIt\u2019s not Amanda\u2019s fault, not really. It – it should have been cancelled, you\u2019re right, I should have cancelled. I just didn\u2019t want to lose face, this cause was so important – I thought it would be welcomed by so many.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou thought wrongly, Peggy. Surely you have read enough about these rallies, meetings or whatever they’re called to have noticed that they are never peaceful, there have always been incidents, injuries – deaths -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She twisted her handkerchief between her fingers, and wept. It was true, everything he was saying, was true. She should have had more foresight, she should have had more humility. She looked at him again \u201cHester? Olivia?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey were knocked down – rather Hester was knocked down, and Olivia tried to protect her by covering her body with her own. Sadly she was kicked, trampled upon and some of the things thrown in the crowd struck her. Both of them have broken limbs, concussion\u2026\u201d he paused and decided to say nothing about the concerns regarding Olivia\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel nodded, \u201cI\u2019m truly sorry, sir. Would you tell Hoss and Adam they have my sympathies. If there is anything we can do to help at the Box G, let me know\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben got to his feet and followed the young man to the door which Abel pulled open, in a gruff voice he thanked the younger man for bringing Peggy back and shook the proffered hand. He stood on the porch for a moment or two and watched as Abel clambered back into the buggy and was then swallowed up in the night.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sighed and closed the door, looked over at Peggy who was sobbing into her handkerchief. \u201cWould you like something to drink?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was just for something to say, although he did think with all that crying she would probably need something, so when she nodded he dithered slightly, wondering whether a stiff whiskey would be appropriate or a brandy to calm the nerves. He opted for coffee and went into the kitchen to prepare some. He wasn\u2019t sure how to deal with her, his own emotions were in too much of a tangle. He was fussing about the kitchen when he heard a noise behind him and saw Cheng Ho Lee coming into the room, pulling his dressing gown tightly over his midriff.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI make. You go. Miss Peggy need to talk.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHumph\u201d was the only reply he received but Ben turned as ordered and went back to the other room where Peggy was staring into the flames, her face blank, exhausted of emotion.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy, this situation -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He paused from upstairs there came the pattering of feet, a whimper, a cry.. \u201dMommy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The door to one of the rooms opened, they could hear little footsteps padding across the floorboards overhead, again \u201cMommy? Daddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With a sigh Ben got to his feet and strode over to the bottom of the stairs, a little night shirted figure appeared, rubbing his eyes, \u201cWhere\u2019s Mommy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben mounted the stairs and picked the little fellow up, held him close in his arms, \u201cIt\u2019s alright, Nathaniel, you’re with Grandpa\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut where\u2019s Mommy? Where\u2019s Daddy?\u201d Nathaniel yawned, drowsy headed he leaned upon Ben\u2019s shoulder, \u201cI want Mommy\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 60<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A thick set nurse stood four square with feet set apart and hands clasped behind her back with dark eyes like gimlets. Hoss gulped and Adam sighed, the last thing either of them wanted was a verbal battle with a nurse who bore the pre-fix Dragon on her starched apron front.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou have just half an hour\u201d she snapped as she led the way to the side ward, her feet thudding upon the floor \u201cAnd if there is any change in either of your wives condition you call me immediately.\u201d she stopped at a door \u201cDo I make myself clear?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYesm\u2019m..\u201d Hoss stammered and Adam nodded and muttered something beneath his breath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia and Hester lay in beds that were separated by a small night stand upon which a lamp glowed. The main light in the room came from the lamps suspended from the ceiling out of harms way. It gave the small ward a quite intimate feeling and was less surgical than the room in which they had seen their wives previously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They could see from the rise and fall of the blankets covering their wives that they were sleeping, so they took their chairs to the bedside of each of them, and set them down very quietly by their side. Shadows were kindly, and one could almost forget the bruises and abrasions although it was impossible to hide the bandages that covered Olivia\u2019s eyes<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam took her uninjured hand in his and held it gently within his own, he raised it to his lips and kissed the palm as he was accustomed to doing. Then he gently kissed her wrist where the blood pumped through the pale blue veins, pulsing steadily, he could feel the consistent beat of it beneath his lips. She sighed, a slight smile on her lips \u201cTickles\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOlivia? You\u2019re awake?\u201d he wanted to say more but suddenly realised he didn\u2019t know what to say, except ask the usual inane questions, like how do you feel, are you alright when anyone could see she was far from being alright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust \u2026\u201d she sighed, her voice was very low and he had to lean forwards to hear her, \u201cYou came before. Poetry? Shelley?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHis poem – a Philosophy of love.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy favourite.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t want to let go of her hand, this tangible proof that she was all right, she was strong enough to beat this, she was going to be coming home. Again she smiled, although he could see that it was forced, more of a grimace really and if she were crying he could not tell as the bandages concealed so much.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cwhy is it so dark?\u201d she pulled her hand free from his and raised it to touch her face, rough bandages grazed against her fingertips, across her face and for a moment she didn\u2019t move. Her fingers stayed touching her cheekbone were stitches had grazed against them. \u201cWhere am I? It smells like a hospital\u2026not Bridie\u2019s?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, not Bridie\u2019s. It is the hospital. Paul insisted on having you and Hester brought here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHester? Oh Adam, how is she? Is she safe?\u201d her hand fluttered down again to touch his, \u201cIs she alive?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, she\u2019s in the bed next to yours. And you\u2019re not blind, just that you had a blow to the head and it has affected your eyes -\u201d he paused, perhaps he was lying but if he was then it was because he couldn\u2019t tell her what he didn\u2019t want to believe. Not yet anyway. \u201cCan you remember what happened?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI saw Hester fall and then someone tripped over her. There was so much noise, people were shouting and I thought they were going to attack the platform. Hester -\u201d she gripped his hand tightly, her breathing became shallow, faster. \u201cI remember thinking Hester would be hurt and went to help her but I can\u2019t remember anything else. I didn\u2019t see you anywhere, I looked for you\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swallowed a gulp, a wave of guilt swept over him as he remembered that at the time she and Hester needed him, he was helping Lucy Garston off the platform. He ran a finger across his brow to wipe away beads of perspiration that had become trapped in the furrows there, he took her hand and kissed her fingers again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere were so many people, Livvy \u2026 they were coming down the side alleys just to – to be part of the fight. It became a free for all\u2026Nate and the rest of us were totally outnumbered.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWere there many – hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMore than there should have been. Several deaths.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh -\u201d she paused and her fingers once again tightened around his, another grimace of a smile \u201cWe came off lightly then\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He said nothing yet again, he caught at a strand of her hair upon the pillow and curled it around his finger. \u201cAdam – some water -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A carafe was on the night stand beside her bed, and he carefully helped her to drink from it, before settling her back upon the pillows. She moved slightly, winced, settled back into position \u201cThe children?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa\u2019s looking after them\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs Reuben alright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, he\u2019s with Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI thought I saw him in town\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he was at the water hole with his gang\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I’m glad I wouldn\u2019t have wanted him to have seen what happened\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, he was swimming with the other lads.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked at her face, leaned forwards to kiss her lips, realised how things would change if the worse were to happen for she was surprised by the touch of him, just momentarily, before she relaxed and returned his kiss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss was talking quietly to Hester, listening to her quiet voice, holding her hand and just wanting to pick her up and carry her home. She could remember nothing after moving closer to the platform and tripping, \u201cThere was so much noise I couldn\u2019t hear what they were saying so I thought I would get closer to the platform. I fell, and then someone, something, fell on me and moved away and I was thinking I had to get up or more people would fall over me. Then it went dark. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut you do feel alright, don\u2019t you, honey? You ain\u2019t feeling no pain, are ya?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I had some pills. I feel like I\u2019m floating \u2026\u201d she frowned, a little horseshoe of worry between her eyebrows \u201cI dreamed of being in a field, wild flowers everywhere, so lovely, Hoss. It was so quiet and peaceful, I could have stayed there forever.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A gong sounded. It echoed through the little ward and made each one of them jump, Hoss said \u2018Dang\u2019 very loudly and swore that the Old Dragon was out to get him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo dragons, Hoss, they aren\u2019t real.\u201d Hester smiled, squeezed his hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis one is, and she\u2019s jest hanging about the doorway waiting to nab me.\u201d Hoss sighed and leaned in for a kiss.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre the children al lright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSure they are, Mary Ann and Joe have them at their place, Pa\u2019s looking after Adam\u2019s kids.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded but before she could speak the gong sounded again and when they looked at the door the Matron was standing there, arms folded across her ample bosom. Whispered farewells, promises for another visit in the morning\u2026.a final kiss.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy Coffee and Grant Tombs were in the waiting room when Adam and Hoss left the ward. Both men stood up as soon as the Cartwrights came into view, and once again Hoss was left with the feeling that Grant and Roy could have been father and son they were so alike. It almost hypnotised him as he walked towards them and nodded to their greeting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow are they?\u201d Roy asked<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoing well all things considered.\u201d Hoss replied and glanced at Adam who nodded in agreement.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey wouldn\u2019t let us in to see them.\u201d Grant said and Roy added \u201cBecause we weren\u2019t related to \u2018em.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat can we do to help?\u201d Grant now asked as they turned to leave, their boots sounding over loud in the hushed environs of the hospital corridor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere isn\u2019t very much you can do.\u201d Hoss said, \u201cBut thanks anyway.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam opened his mouth and closed it again. He wanted to say to them that they could go and find the men or women who had thrown the rocks or stones or glass that harmed their wives, or the feet that trampled upon them, or kicked them when they lay there on the ground. But he knew the possibility of finding anything out like that was so unlikely it was stupid even to think of asking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked at Roy as they walked out into the night air, darkness surrounding them, light from windows scattering across the street, \u201cRoy, you could ask around, see what you can find out\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy looked at the younger man whose face was in shadow, but he understood what was implied, he heard the tone of voice and discerned its intention. He nodded \u201cYou staying in town? You can come and stay with us, more than welcome.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBridie and Paul have already offered us a bed for the night, Roy. Thanks all the same.\u201d Hoss said gruffly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam thought of Roy\u2019s coffee and shivered, thanked the old man who, after briefly touching Adam\u2019s arm with his hand left the brothers standing together while he and Grant returned to their home<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie and Paul were eager to hear how they got on at the hospital. They talked as they ate the meal Tilly had provided, although to be fair it was Hoss who talked along with Bridie, while Paul listened and Adam lost himself in retrospection and remorse.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

Abel Greigson arrived home to find the main room empty. His father, Walt, had made his way to bed and left a single lamp burning to light the absentee into the house. The young man was more than grateful to find the place so quiet. He removed his jacket and cast it upon the back of the settee while he made his way to the kitchen to prepare himself a drink.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Some letters were piled on the table for attention and he remembered that Otis had been sent to town to carry out several tasks that morning one of which was to collect the Box G mail. The man had obviously been caught up with the events of the Meeting and after Peggy and Abel had left, had taken the mail bag in for Walter to deal with.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He shuffled through them, placing them down as he glanced at the envelopes and a recognised the handwriting and guessed the contents as a result. One envelope that was addressed to him was in an unfamiliar hand writing and with a slight frown of curiosity on his face he opened it, failed to recognise the writing and looked at t he signature. The name he read there brought a flush of heat to his face and around his neck, and he hastened to sit down, turn up the flame in the lamp and read the letter\u2019s contents.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDear Mr Greigson, Abel,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I wanted to thank you, once again, for the happy occasion of the Town Hall dance on Saturday evening. I wanted you to know that it was the first time I had enjoyed such good company, such pleasure for a very long time\u2026being able to dance, to chatter about nothing important, to hear music and laughter, oh it was just wonderful.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Thank you so much for asking me to accompany you when we met in the park, total strangers as we were\u2026and by the end of Saturday evening, I didn\u2019t feel we were strangers at all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

That is why I feel so very bad at not having been able to meet you on Wednesday as we had arranged. I had wanted to see you because I wanted you advice about a very personal matter to me, but I wanted to see you because I needed to – well, yes, I just needed to see you.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As it happened I got advice which was very good and sound, and from two quarters. So I decided that I should follow it before I lost courage and failed to do so, and in failing, perhaps lose more than I could possibly gain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I told you that I was engaged to a very dear young man – he served at Fort Ridgely and my father was his Commanding Officer. Not long before we were to be married he was ordered to go on reconnaissance into Indian Territory – perhaps we both knew that he was unlikely to return home, perhaps we anticipated the worse and took advantage of that miserable fate. As it was, he died and some months later I gave birth to our daughter.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel put the letter down and stared into the hearth for a moment or two. He wasn\u2019t sure what to think about that piece of news\u2026. \u2018good girls\u2019 he believed \u2018didn\u2019t do that sort of thing\u2019. He thought of Elizabeth Godfrey, remembered what she looked like, the way she smiled, the blue of her eyes\u2026.so demeure and so prim! He frowned, and shook his head, then picked up the letter to resume reading.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMy mother as I suppose many mothers have done since time immemorial, had a plan to be rid of the stigma of a wanton daughter and illegitimate grand daughter. My baby was handed over to my sister, married of course, and promptly dispatched back to their home town where she would be raised as my niece. I think she was about an hour old when the hand over took place.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

My father, mother and I took up life elsewhere, many miles away from my sister and her \u2018family\u2019. I think I went slightly mad, I can\u2019t remember thinking a thought or carrying out any action which wasn\u2019t instigated by my mother. I couldn\u2019t think, or function, not as a human being, I merely existed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I am sorry, this letter is taking a long time to write, but for some reason I felt compelled to write it to you. For you to understand the sort of woman I really am\u2026the sort of woman I want to be.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When my parents died I moved back to my sisters home..and life was harder than I could possibly imagine. So hard that I decided to start a new life away from them and came to Virginia City. I took on a new name, a new personna\u2026I wanted to do honest work, and pretend that my daughter never existed. But that was so much easier said than done\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So I am going back to my sisters, and I want my daughter to know who she really is, I owe it to my dear fiance, and I owe it to her, and to myself\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Oh I hope that nothing I have written will shock you so much that you think too badly of me. You were the first person to treat me as a real human being, the first person to show some care and empathy. Please continue to do so,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sincerely yours \u00a0 Elizabeth Godfrey<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Chapter 61<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy lay in the bed that was in the spare room of Adam and Olivia\u2019s house.\u00a0 She felt confused and miserable, horribly alone and sad. \u00a0 Ben had been right, \u00a0the meeting should have been cancelled and Amanda being older and wiser should have known better. \u00a0 But then, Peggy reasoned, why should Amanda have known the best way to proceed after all her life had been centred entirely on Virginia City. She had lived in the place since she had been a young girl, nearly as long as the Cartwrights had existed there.\u00a0 What would Amanda really know about the world outside of this one town?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy didn\u2019t know when it was that she finally fell asleep, her mind going over and over the same scenes, hearing the same voices\u2026and just occasionally remembering the kindness of Abel Greigson, and the sense of his words permeating the babble of sound that echoed in her head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When the sun rose she left the house.\u00a0 Ben had been somewhere in the house with the children, she had heard his voice and echoes of Sofia’s shrill little girl pleadings.\u00a0 The \u00a0young woman had no intention of talking to him again. \u00a0 Nor did she want to be confronted by the children, watching her, asking her questions, wondering where their Mother and Father were \u2026questions to which she didn\u2019t want to give the answer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe Cartwright dismounted from the saddle as Peggy entered the stable. \u00a0 With a glance up at the sky and checking the time he paused a moment to wonder why Peggy was up and about at such an early hour.\u00a0 He also wondered why she was at his brother\u2019s house and not at the main Ponderosa domain. \u00a0 After tying the rein to the rail he followed her into the stable and watched as she selected a horse, stepping into its stall in order to lead it out to be saddled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGoing anyplace?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His voice was crisp, cold and beneath its surface simmering with anger.\u00a0 Hot and cold mingled together carried with the words angst and a threat. \u00a0 \u00a0Peggy turned, shocked at the sound of the voice, not so much by the words but by the fact that someone was actually up and about and had seen her. \u00a0 She turned to face Joe and after acknowledging him turned her attention back to the horse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI asked – going anyplace?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe stepped further into the stable, \u00a0and again she turned to confront him, her brows raised and her eyes wide, \u201cIs it any business of yours, Joe Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you\u2019re thinking of going to see Mary Ann, don\u2019t bother. I don\u2019t want you going there.\u00a0 She has enough to do as it is without you getting in the way.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t intend visiting Mary Ann.\u00a0 And if I were, I wouldn\u2019t get in the way.\u201d \u00a0she tossed her head, and glared at him.\u00a0 Her cheeks were flushed and there was a red blush creeping above the collar of her jacket.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He glanced at her more closely now, stepping nearer to get a good look and then he gave a curt nod of the head \u201cNot a single bruise – nothing – well, didn\u2019t you get away with it lightly, Miss Dayton.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLeave me alone, Joe\u2026get out of my way.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOr what? \u201c \u00a0he reached out and grabbed at her wrist, pulling her closer and glaring into her eyes \u201cOlivia and Hester didn\u2019t get away without a bruise on them!\u00a0 They\u2019re in that that hospital, Olivia could be blind – but you, the cause of it all, you haven\u2019t even got a bump or a bruise anywhere.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet me go, Joe. Leave me alone \u00a0-\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He released her then, letting go of her arm and stepping back with a puzzled look on his face as he watched her rub her wrist and \u00a0then he sighed and shook his head \u201cI don\u2019t understand it, \u00a0what happened to you, Peggy? \u00a0 Last time you came here you were a sweet changeling girl, funny and cute -\u201d \u00a0he paused again and once more scanned her face as though looking for some sign of that cute funny young woman. \u00a0\u201cWhere did you go?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re talking rubbish, Joe.\u201d she muttered stilling rubbing at her wrist and frowning as she scowled at him, \u201cYou were cute and funny at one time too, \u00a0now look at \u00a0you -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSupposed to mean what?\u201d he sneered<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSupposed to mean whatever you want it to mean.\u00a0 Now clear off and let me get on.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you don\u2019t touch any of Adam\u2019s horses. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh I see, and what do you mean by that -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI mean \u00a0you don\u2019t touch any of those horses.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They glared at each other, until finally she tossed her head and turned away from him.\u00a0 She approached Sport who was watching the interchange between the two humans with a degree of curiosity that many horses showed when humans invaded their space to yell and shout at each other. He was used to it, \u00a0and munched lazily on the hay bag while pricking his ears forward to hear more.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou do know what happened, don\u2019t you?\u00a0 At that Meeting of yours?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u00a0 I know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen why did you let it happen? \u00a0 Why couldn\u2019t you have cancelled?\u00a0 The fact that Higgins\u2019 had cancelled your hall surely gave you some indication of the mood the town was in about what you were going to talk about?\u00a0 The fact that Mary Ann backed out of it must have given you some hint that – that this wasn\u2019t the right time for it here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen when would be the right time, Joe?\u201d \u00a0she turned now, hands on hips, eyes glowering, \u201cIf you wait and wait for something to happen, the flame can be blown out.\u00a0 It\u2019s – it\u2019s like a match stick glow just now, one puff and it\u2019s out\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor goodness sake, girl, listen to \u00a0yourself. \u00a0 This isn\u2019t fairy story stuff, \u00a0this is real life. \u00a0 Match sticks have nothing to do with it\u2026the reality it that as soon as you realised the Meeting would lead to trouble -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t realise -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou must have done. \u00a0 Mary Ann told me how the posters were torn down as soon as she put them up.\u00a0 Higgins cancelled his hall.\u00a0 Surely you had some idea that this was going to lead to disaster?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She firmed her lips, glared and then turned her back on him and began to lead Sport from the stall.\u00a0 The big horse turned his head to Joe as though to ask \u201cIs this alright? Can I go?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you intend going into town I would advise that you didn\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u00a0 I have as much right as anyone else.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou forfeited that right after yesterdays mess.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen even more important that I go in today.\u201d she tossed her head and pulled at Sport to lead him forward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it isn\u2019t.\u201d \u00a0Joe placed a hand on Sport\u2019s neck and the horse checked, paused and waited. \u00a0\u201cPeggy, \u00a0it may seem important to you, \u00a0but it\u2019s sheer nonsense to go into town while everyone is still feeling as they do about what happened.\u00a0 You wouldn\u2019t be received kindly by most.\u00a0 You put at risk those who would – receive you kindly that is – people with so much anger have long memories and hold grievances.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo I understand.\u00a0 They seemed very happy to remind me of some that they still hold against my father.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe looked puzzled and then shook his head \u00a0 \u201cAlright then, tell me why you want to go into town?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stood there with his legs apart, his hands on his hips and his head at an angle that challenged her.\u00a0 She sighed and for a moment remained silent, then she shrugged \u201cI just want to get out of here. \u00a0 I need to speak to the sheriff\u2026see if Amanda and Lucy are all right \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd it doesn\u2019t matter about Olivia and Hester?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course it matters.\u00a0 Of course it does\u2026\u201d \u00a0she bowed her \u00a0head and stared at his boots, planted almost under her nose, \u201cI need to speak to Adam, and Hoss\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd do you think they would want to speak to you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The tone of his voice was cutting, \u00a0it sliced through her hope of reconciliation with Adam, her hope of peace with Hoss. \u00a0 She shivered and turned away, the tears welled up in her eyes and spilled over onto her cheeks which she angrily dashed away with her fingers. \u00a0\u201cI didn\u2019t know, I didn\u2019t even think that there would be so much trouble, so much anger and that people could be so awful.\u00a0 Ben said that people came from all over town, they came with sticks hidden up their sleeves, rocks and glass in their bags, they came deliberately to hurt us, to hurt anyone\u2026.I didn\u2019t expect that, not here, not in Virginia City.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut it has happened in other places, Peggy. \u00a0 You must have known that it happened in other towns \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She paused and frowned, then nodded slowly, \u201cSome \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He shook his head and turned with a shrug of his shoulders, throwing his arms wide as though giving up on the whole issue.\u00a0 She called out to him but he didn\u2019t stop just told her to go, clear off, stay away, don\u2019t come back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, \u00a0Joe\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stopped and turned \u201cJust go away, Peggy. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut where do I go away to?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnywhere, but don\u2019t go anywhere near Mary Ann or the Ponderosa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stood there, rooted to the spot, her hands clasped together under her chin and tears rolling down her face.\u00a0 She was still there when Ben stepped into the stable and approached her, put his arm around her shoulders and let her cry all over him, wetting his shirt in the process.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Eventually she stopped and wiped her eyes with her fingers, blew her nose very noisily on the square of cloth he handed her.\u00a0 He looked at her anxiously \u201cAlright?\u00a0 Feel better?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know.\u00a0 Perhaps\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sighed and then nodded, \u201cTake no notice of most of what Joe said -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou heard him?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t difficult, he was shouting loud enough.\u201d \u00a0he smiled again although his eyes were dark and sombre \u201cPeggy, were \u00a0you really going into town?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c I thought I should. \u00a0 Amanda and Lucy should know that they have my support.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded and hugged her a little as though to convey the thought that he understood, then he looked at Sport, and back at her \u201cI think you should not ride into town alone, \u00a0Peggy. \u00a0 Can you wait until after breakfast and we\u2019ll ride in together.\u201d he paused \u201cWe\u2019ll take the buggy.\u00a0 The children need to see their father.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIsn\u2019t Adam coming home today?\u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe – but I can\u2019t read his mind for him. \u00a0 He may prefer to stay in town\u2026to be near his wife.\u00a0 Hoss the same.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen, I\u2019m not a hard hearted person, I\u2019m not like Joe said – I do care, and I do have feelings\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe know that.\u201d Ben nodded and gently shepherded her away from Sport who seeing his opportunity returned to his stall and haybag., \u00a0\u201cJoe shouted the odds because he\u2019s frightened, for his brothers and their wives. \u00a0 He doesn\u2019t really know what to do in these circumstances, how to help, and he\u2019s also had a shock at the thought that Mary Ann could have been involved, been hurt too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know, I understand.\u201d she whispered and bowed her head \u201cOh Ben, I should have stopped, when Mary Ann backed out and Mr Higgins cancelled, I should have stopped then. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I know that Amanda can be very persuasive about the things she believes in. \u00a0 You gave her \u00a0a rare opportunity to air her opinion about rights for women and she took it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you can\u2019t – no one should – blame Amanda.\u00a0 I should not have gone to her.\u00a0 If she had been really that interested she would have come to me as soon as the posters went up, but she didn\u2019t .\u00a0 I forced the issue on her\u2026not the other way around.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben shrugged and then paused at the stable door.\u00a0 The sun was risen, a soft sunlight shimmered over the countryside, made the windows of \u00a0the house gleam, the shingles on the roof mellow and golden.\u00a0 He sighed, and turned to her, looked down at her, and nodded \u201cNever mind. \u00a0 After breakfast we will all go into town.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie placed the plates of food on the table and sat down. \u00a0 She glanced at the two men and then at her husband who raised his eyebrows at her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid either of you sleep last night?\u201d she asked softly and poured coffee into their cups.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, must have, some time or other.\u201d Hoss mumbled and reached for the cup, \u201cI\u2019m sure glad I got the chance to see Hester, else I never would have managed any sleep at all \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie turned to Adam \u201cAnd you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged and leaned back into his chair, he reached for the coffee and realised his stomach felt hollow, as though it was reaching for a chance to cleave to his ribs. He swallowed coffee and then held out the cup for a refill.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was trying to work out ways to break into the hospital with that dragon breathing down our necks.\u201d he admitted, then frowned \u201cI think I slept – kept waking up – seeing that fighting all over again and imagining that worse happened.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bride nodded and Paul said that would happen, the mind liked to fill in the gaps and then make everything appear worse than it was, a way to help heal so he had read in one book.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEat something now.\u201d Bridie urged \u201cTilly especially wanted you to try her Cornish bannocks.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat will you do after you\u2019ve eaten?\u201d Paul asked wondering if he should mention that a change of clothes, a shave and wash might be a good thing too.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGo and see if we can get into that hospital, I guess.\u201d HOss glanced at Adam who nodded and looked at his food as though it repelled him. Hoss had no such feelings but began to eat, perhaps not so heartily as usual but he always obeyed the commands of his stomach.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie nodded and then briskly stated the fact that they should shave, clean up, look presentable\u2026it would go a long way to appease the dragon if they would do so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 62<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel deQuille enjoyed sitting on his porch with a cup of coffee in \u00a0his hand as he watched the townspeople going about their business on a Sunday morning. \u00a0 There were the church goers who piously made their way to their various places of worship, and who would ignore him as the heathen they rightly suspected he was; \u00a0there were those who \u00a0chose to remain home with their children, allowing them to play in the street with their hoops or their tops or \u00a0whatever other toy they wished, knowing they would come to no harm as there was so little traffic on a Sunday.\u00a0 Occasionally a parent would shout out to the children not to be so noisy and remind them it was Sunday after all. \u00a0 Then for a few moments the children would lower their voices and shout a little less.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Storekeepers who did not go to church on a Sunday cleaned their big windows instead, or swept out the amount of dirt and mud and other sources of dirt from the floors of their stores. \u00a0 Virginia City citizens were not known to wipe their feet before entering any store and carried all manner of filth in on their boots and shoes. \u00a0 Sunday mornings gave the store owners a good chance to clean up before they \u2018rested\u2019 as they felt the Sabbath demanded.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy Coffee and Grant Tombs stepped out of the house and made their way out of town, strolling side by side, hands in their pockets and chatting like two old men\u2026well, one was an old man and the other was kind of heading towards becoming one far more promptly even he thought possible.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sheriff opened the door of the Sheriff\u2019s Office and Jail, peeked out and looked up and down the street. \u00a0 Perhaps he was happy to see evidence to the previous days debacle cleared \u00a0up, but Daniel wondered if there were another reason and was pleased to see that there was, for within minutes Amanda Ridley stepped out.\u00a0 She had a brief few words with Nate and then, after patting her curls into place, strolled away from where she had spent the previous night.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Daniel smiled, a night in the cells had obviously not dampened Amanda\u2019s spirit. \u00a0 He could remember her as a \u00a0young woman, in fact, he could remember writing up the story of what had happened to the Ridleys, \u00a0the whole sorry mess. \u00a0 \u00a0She had been an attractive, strawberry blonde young woman then, jealous of her prettier and \u00a0younger sister, \u00a0and quite willing to support her father in accusing Jimmy Chan of her sister\u2019s murder. \u00a0 Daniel watched her as she made her way to the Ladies Emporium, pause to look at the broken boarded up window and then enter the building.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He wondered what she thought at seeing her plate glass gold lettered window gone\u2026thanks to the provision of several rocks that went sailing through it the previous night. \u00a0 \u00a0He would be writing about that for the morning edition of the Enterprise.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was wondering whether or not to go and have a brief chat with Amanda when he noticed a buggy threading its way through the rather sparse traffic. \u00a0 Perhaps he was not surprised at seeing Ben Cartwright seated in it, but he was surprised at seeing Peggy Dayton by his side.\u00a0 Behind them sat Reuben and Sofia, looking anxious and wide eyed, \u00a0with little Nathaniel wedged in between them. \u00a0 \u00a0He watched them as the \u00a0buggy jounced its way along the road, slowed a little to speak to Roy and Grant, and then continue on its way. \u00a0 He surmised they were either going to the hospital or to the Martins home. \u00a0 \u00a0He had already been to the hospital to enquire about the well being of some of the victims of the previous days affray, but had been sent \u2018packing\u2019 as the saying goes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He frowned, paused a moment when Dr and Mrs Colby walked by pushing the baby in his perambulator – all the way from New York of course – the perambulator , not the baby – \u00a0James stopped and had a brief chat but disclosed no information about the patients except to confirm that Mrs Spencer had died of a stroke due to the excitement at the Meeting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda Ridley stepped into her store and walked to an inner door which led to the steps leading to the apartment above. \u00a0 There were stairs outside that led to the front door of the property above, \u00a0should Mrs Carstairs have visitors, but this inner door was useful for the woman to slip upstairs when there was a lull in the store. \u00a0 It had been very useful for Mr Downing whose girth required – so he said – that he took as little exercise as possible. \u00a0 \u00a0Going outside the store, walking around to the back, taking the stairs up to the front door would have been too much for him. \u00a0 He would have sweated too much and no one likes being served by a sweaty store keeper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs Carstairs opened the door \u00a0with an exclamation of delight at seeing her employer and stepped aside to let Amanda into the room, glancing hurriedly around her to assure herself that it was in a \u2019proper state\u2019 for visitors.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy came out of his room and looked at Amanda and then promptly returned, closing the door behind him as he did so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you, Miss Ridley?\u00a0 I\u2019m sorry about the window, \u00a0it got smashed last night.\u00a0 It terrified the life out of us -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt must have done.\u00a0 What a nuisance.\u201d Amanda frowned, \u00a0a nuisance to her, a terrifying experience for Mrs Carstairs and her boy. \u00a0 \u00a0\u201cI\u2019ll get the glazier to come and replace it first thing tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Ridley, \u00a0someone told me that the Mayor -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh forget about the Mayor. \u00a0 The silly little man. \u00a0 He\u2019s soon going to have more troubles land on his desk than he could ever imagine.\u201d \u00a0 she sighed and sat down at Mrs Carstairs invitation to do so. \u00a0\u201cDid you attend the Meeting?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d Mrs Carstairs shook her head. \u201cNo, I was advised not to do so. \u00a0 Apart from which I was far too busy, there were several orders that had to be worked on\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda nodded, of course, work for which Mrs Carstairs was paid well, but which also ate into her free time. \u00a0 She nodded again and when Mrs Carstairs offered her some tea or coffee she gratefully accepted, leaving the poor woman unsure of which she was expected to make but bustling away to the kitchen in order to make both.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben clambered down from the buggy and assisted Peggy \u00a0before reaching in to pluck Nathaniel from between his siblings.\u00a0 Reuben and Sofia followed promptly thereafter. \u00a0 Peggy smoothed down her skirts and adjusted her bonnet,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see you later, Ben.\u00a0 I need to see the sheriff first and then Amanda\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCome back to Paul\u2019s afterwards, Peggy. \u00a0 Be careful, won\u2019t \u00a0you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded and hurried away before the door could open and she would see either Adam or Hoss. \u00a0 As it happened it was Tilly who opened the door and beamed with pleasure at seeing Ben with the children. \u00a0 By the time the door was closed Peggy was already across the road heading for the sheriff\u2019s office and which caused Daniel to stop his stroll to Ridleys Ladies Emporium and to stay close to the Sheriff\u2019s office instead.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben passed Nathaniel over to his father, and then nodded over to Hoss \u201cMary Ann and Joe will be coming later with the girls and Erik. \u00a0 They thought it better that we didn\u2019t all come at the same time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie bustled forwards now and hugged Sofia, \u00a0nodded to Reuben who had already shown himself to be adverse to hugging now that he was \u2018big\u2019 and then led the way into the parlour . \u00a0 Adam watched his children follow the older woman and held onto Nathaniel, who was perched comfortably in t he crook of his arm.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe thought we would go to the hospital this morning as there\u2019s an hours visiting time.\u201d he explained, and then sighed upon seeing a flash of anticipation cross Sofia and Reuben\u2018s faces, knowing that their hopes were soon to be dashed. \u00a0 They were as Hoss promptly explained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAin\u2019t able to take the kids,\u201d Hoss explained, and looked at Ben \u201cBut we\u2019ll ask if we can, and then take them in this afternoon if its at all possible.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI want to see mommy\u201d Sofia said quietly, screwing up a corner of her skirt between nervous fingers. \u00a0\u201cI want to see her, Daddy.\u201d she looked up at Adam, blue eyes brimming with tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Princess, she would want to see \u00a0you too, but we have to talk about it with the Doctor and nurse \u00a0first.\u201d Adam stroked back a strand of the fair hair from the child\u2019s brow, \u201cYou\u2019re looking very pretty today\u2026\u201d hoping to distract the child by playing up to her vanity.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia simpered and nodded, \u00a0\u201cPeggy chose my dress, she said it matched my eyes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy?\u201d he glanced at Ben<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe stayed over with us\u2026\u201d Ben mumbled and walked to the window to stare out at the street and the few people walking about, \u201cShe\u2019s very miserable.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe cried.\u201d Sofia said, \u201cI heard her crying in her bedroom.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss glanced at Adam and shrugged, \u00a0then Adam passed Nathaniel to Bridie, \u201cWe had better go now, \u00a0an hour isn\u2019t very long – don\u2019t want to be late.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben nodded, Bridie took a squirming protesting \u00a0Nathaniel to the other room where Tilly would feed him some chocolate, \u00a0Reuben and Sofia stood side by side looking at their father who felt waves of guilt sweeping over him because he couldn\u2019t take them with him. \u00a0 Ben followed his sons out to the hall,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you both alright?\u00a0 You look exhausted, the pair of you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid n\u2019t sleep much.\u201d Adam mumbled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss nodded and reached for his hat, he paused before putting it on \u201cWhere\u2019s Peggy now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe has errands to do,. People to see.\u201d Ben replied sounding curt but not intending to be, \u00a0he sighed and shook his head \u201cI am sorry about all this\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, \u00a0gave a slight mirthless grin and opened the door.\u00a0 The sky was blue, the sun shone\u2026he glared about him as though there were no rights to it being such a lovely day when he was feeling so utterly miserable.\u00a0 Hoss behind him nearly bumped him off the step, \u00a0but together they headed for the sidewalk and began their way to the hospital.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The \u2018Dragon\u2019 \u00a0was not on duty when they arrived at the ward where they were met by a neat young woman who smiled at them in greeting. \u00a0 \u201cI think you\u2019ll find your wives so much better than when you saw them yesterday\u201d she said immediately, leaning towards them as though uttering some extremely confidential information. \u00a0 \u201cBut please don\u2019t stay too long as it will be Doctor\u2019s rounds very soon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled and nodded and went her way, leaving both men gripping their hats more tightly in anticipation of what to expect while they watched her hurry down the corridor as though in search of someone else in need of \u2018confidential information\u2019.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The smell of flowers greeted them as they pushed open the doors to the ward, \u00a0and it seemed as though every possible flower available had been plucked and arranged to form a posy or bouquet that had been sent to Hester, Olivia and the other women who were victims of the previous days riot.\u00a0 They stood at the door to look around them, \u00a0before approaching their wives. \u00a0 Several other men were already seated by their wives sides, \u00a0and no doubt in the Men\u2019s wards dutiful wives were likewise occupied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester was sitting up, \u00a0enough pillows behind her to support her .\u00a0 Her smile, when she saw Hoss, was bright and wide, her eyes sparkling with pleasure.\u00a0 Even before he was halfway down the aisle to the bed she had her hands outstretched to reach out for him. \u00a0 Within minutes she was wrapped in \u00a0his embrace, being kissed gently, \u00a0before he settled her back against the pillows as though she would break if he did not.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Hoss, I\u2019m so glad you came this morning.\u00a0 The night seemed to last forever.\u00a0 Are the children alright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMary Ann and Joe are looking after them\u201d \u00a0Hoss replied, wondering if he should have brought some candy, flowers, grapes, at least something, he felt embarrassed and awkward. The last time he had been in a hospital was years ago, and he didn\u2019t like being reminded of that, when little Margie Owens had had her baby and died.\u00a0 He looked around him, saw his brother sitting down close to Olivia and reaching for her hand. \u00a0 He sighed, \u201cPa said that Mary Ann and Joe will be coming to see you later this afternoon.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I will see \u00a0you again?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, of course, jest you try keeping me away.\u201d he swallowed the lump in his throat and grasped her hand within his \u201cOh Hester, \u00a0you can\u2019t imagine how I felt when I saw you lying there -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can, my dear, considering the number of times you\u2019ve been brought home half dead before now,\u201d she reached out and touched his face, smiled, \u201cYou\u2019ve shaved?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBridie said I should\u2026I mean \u2026yeah, of course I have.\u201d he blushed and felt awkward again, \u201cAnything you need, Hester?\u00a0 Anything I can git for you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shook her head and leaned against the pillows, \u00a0sighed and half closed her eyes, \u00a0it was hard to fight the medication she was on, it dulled the pain but it made her feel so tired. \u00a0\u201cHoss, \u00a0I\u2019m sorry this happened. \u00a0 I feel so guilty about Olivia\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo need, sweetheart, Olivia did exactly what you would have done in the same situation. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know but -\u201d she sighed again and gripped his hand tightly, \u201cI thought she was going to die,\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam reached for his wife\u2019s hand and held it within both of his own. \u00a0 He didn\u2019t speak sensing that she was sleeping. \u00a0 Sleep was such an important part of the healing process that he feared to disturb it, \u00a0but contented himself by being close to her, holding her hand, looking at her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Someone had braided her hair into a plait that had been arranged over her shoulder and down to her waist.\u00a0 The wounds on her face looked ugly with the black stitches and he wondered what they would look like, no doubt red and sore for some while, but fading over time. \u00a0 He imagined Nathaniel worrying over \u2018spiders\u2019 on his Momma\u2019s face, and Sofia being horrified. \u00a0 \u00a0He sighed and as he did so she turned her head, facing him. \u00a0 \u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019 m here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI missed you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI missed you too.\u201d \u00a0 he kissed her finger tips, she felt the bed dip at the side and anticipated the kiss that he gave her on her swollen mouth. \u00a0 \u201cOlivia – \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She squeezed his hand as though she preferred silence, although she smiled, a small rather sad little smile. \u00a0\u201cAdam, \u00a0have \u00a0you seen the Doctor?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe Nurse said he was due for his rounds soon. \u00a0 \u00a0We won\u2019t be able to stay long.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Still the same smile on her lips, \u00a0he wondered if she had her eyes closed, if there was a smile lingering within them too. \u00a0 He cleared his throat, \u201cI – I wasn\u2019t there to protect you, Olivia.\u00a0 I should have been, \u00a0you should have been my \u00a0first priority.\u00a0 I just didn\u2019t see you, or Hester – there were so many people in the street, \u00a0people streaming in from the alleys, they came from every place at once.\u00a0 But – even so – I should have got to \u00a0you first, I should have prevented this happening to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t speak for a moment or two, but then licked her lips, as though they and her mouth were too dry for speech.\u00a0 He asked her if she needed some water and turned to pour some from the carafe into a glass. \u00a0 Very carefully he helped her into a sitting position \u00a0so that she could drink some after which she thanked him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, you have to remember you had a duty to do, \u00a0as a deputy, and that doesn\u2019t mean you could come rushing over to see to me anymore than it would have been right for Hoss to rush to Hester\u2019s side.\u00a0 There were others involved, others needed protecting\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA lot were hurt, some – died – \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know. I heard. \u00a0 Word gets around, even in here.\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0she raised her hand and touched the stitches, prickly and spiky against her fingers, \u201cI must look a sight.\u00a0 The children will be scared to look at me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t say anything, just squeezed her hand tighter, and looked fondly at her, wishing she could see him and that he could see all of her.\u00a0 Someone once said the \u00a0eyes were the person, \u00a0they showed the emotions of the heart, \u00a0revealed things that perhaps they would prefer to keep concealed.\u00a0 But he wished he could see those things now, \u00a0 \u201cHas anyone said anything about – about your eyes?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey want to take the bandages off in a weeks time. \u00a0 They should be able to tell by then if there is permanent damage.\u201d her voice wobbled, \u00a0she firmed her lips, obviously determined to put a brave face on it all, \u201cAdam, \u00a0what if -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShush,\u201d he put a finger to her lips, \u201cDon\u2019t say it.\u00a0 Don\u2019t even think it. \u00a0 You\u2019ll be alright, sweetheart, Livvy, you\u2019ll be alright.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t say anything for a while and then smiled \u201cI can smell the flowers.\u00a0 People have been sending flowers since yesterday evening.\u00a0 The nurse reads out the messages – so we know from whom they are sent. \u00a0 The Women\u2019s Hospice sent some, and – and so did – \u201c the gong sounded, breaking into her words so that she stopped speaking but kept her face turned to wards him \u201cHave \u00a0you to go so soon?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoctor\u2019s rounds, remember?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He leaned forward and kissed her again. \u00a0 Beside Hester\u2019s bed Hoss was also kissing his wife \u2026making promises to come back as soon as possible.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was horrible to have to leave them.\u00a0 They could hear their boots ringing upon the marbled floor.\u00a0 It reminded Adam of the times he would visit the White House, \u00a0stride up that corridor to speak to the President, \u00a0the crisp heel tap of his boots, \u00a0the passing staff who would salute the uniform – he felt cramps in his stomach and longed to get out into the fresh air. `<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 63<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda Ridley felt relaxed as she sat on Mrs Carstairs battered old sofa, and sipped her coffee while she watched her employee prepare the dough for the days bread.\u00a0 Jimmy finished cleaning his shoes, \u00a0brand new ones his Ma had bought him recently.\u00a0 Her change in circumstances had meant that the first thing she had done was get him those shoes. \u00a0 Now he could walk tall, and eat well, for Ma now prepared lunches for him to take to school each day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWere you really in jail, Miss Ridley?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda was so lost in thought that his voice, coming from behind her, made her jump, \u00a0the cup rattled in its saucer and coffee slopped over. \u00a0 She cleared her throat, \u00a0and nodded, \u00a0then turned to look at him \u00a0 \u201cCome here, let me see you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jimmy felt nervous now, he wondered if he should have just kept quiet but he had always been respectful of this woman and now that she had been in the cells, it seemed to him that she was no better than anyone else. \u00a0 He dutifully stood in front of her, \u00a0looking at her and trying not to blush.\u00a0 At the kitchen end of the room Mrs Carstairs stopped pounding at the dough and watched, wondering if her job as well as her new home was about to be lost to her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda \u00a0put down the cup and saucer and reached out to draw the boy closer.\u00a0 She smiled and nodded as though what she saw met with her approval, \u00a0with her hand still holding fast to his arm she told him that she had indeed been in the cells, \u00a0it had been quite interesting, \u00a0she had shared the evening with quite a number of the townspeople.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI saw you on the platform.\u201d Jimmy said, \u00a0then frowned and wondered if he should have volunteered such information, \u00a0he glanced anxiously over at his Mother who didn\u2019t seem to have heard for she had started kneading the dough again. \u201cJust for a bit.\u00a0 Then we went off to swim. \u00a0 Why did people throw the rocks at you? \u00a0 Were you \u00a0hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I wasn\u2019t hurt. \u00a0 People just didn\u2019t like what we were trying to tell them, and some people there, just wanted to make trouble anyway.\u00a0 You always get people like that in a crowd, people who just turn up to create trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps because when they went to school they were bullies. \u00a0 Do you have any bullies at your school?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded \u201cYes, some. \u00a0 The boy who lived here before, he was a bully.\u00a0 He shot some of the boys in the playground.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, \u00a0there you are, you see? \u00a0 Little bullies grow up into bigger bullies and just want to \u00a0cause trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded and looked at her, \u201cI still don\u2019t understand why you went to jail and the bullies didn\u2019t\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSome bullies did, \u00a0and I think the Sheriff will soon \u00a0be arresting some others as well.\u201d \u00a0she smoothed down the frills on her blouse, and then patted her hair before smiling at him as he wandered off back to his room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The smell of bread wafted over to her.\u00a0 It was pleasant to sit here, just sit, relax and think. \u00a0 She closed her eyes and tried to consider her plans for the future. \u00a0 After glancing anxiously over at her Employer Mrs Carstairs put the new loaf into the oven, turned over the one she had taken out and tapped it to make sure it was proven to her satisfaction. \u00a0 She lived in dread of what Miss Ridley was going to say, \u00a0it seemed to her the woman must have had a reason for coming to the apartment instead of going directly to her home from the cells.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

Nate was surprised when Peggy entered the office.\u00a0 He stood up immediately and nodded a greeting, \u00a0gave her a smile which she received with a slight one of her own.\u00a0 With a gesture he indicated the chair in front of the desk into which she sat, very slowly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Miss Dayton. \u00a0 To what do I owe this pleasure?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She frowned, looked puzzled \u201cI was – I thought – that perhaps you would be calling on me sometime soon, so thought I should come to you first.\u00a0 I have -\u201d she opened her purse and rummaged about inside, then pulled out an envelope \u201cI have my statement already written out for you\u2026about yesterday.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see.\u201d \u00a0he leaned over the desk and took the envelope which he placed on the blotter in front of him\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cArn\u2019t you going to read it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He leaned back to survey her. \u00a0 It was obvious from the dark smudges beneath her brown eyes that she had had a sleepless anxious night, \u00a0and the expression on her face indicated genuine concern and guilt.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will in due course.\u201d he leaned forward, with his elbows on the desk he steepled his fingers and observed her again, \u201cWhy do you think I would \u00a0be visiting you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou – you arrested Amanda. \u00a0 \u00a0You know that – well – if I had not held the Meeting there would have been no fighting or injuries.\u201d \u00a0at the word injuries her eyes welled up with tears, she shivered<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Ridley took a rifle to the Mayor and threatened to shoot him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I didn\u2019t know that. .. I suppose that is serious.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He hid a smile and nodded \u201cYes, I had to arrest her for her own safety. \u00a0 Of course she will be fined for her part in the affray, but the Mayor – well – let\u2019s say he has charges of his own for us to consider which will lessen the fine on Miss Ridley.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded, not sure she understood exactly what he meant. \u00a0 She sighed, and bowed her head \u201cI thought I would be arrested on a charge of causing an affray.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh I see\u2026\u201d he raised his eyebrows \u00a0 \u201cYour meeting was not illegal, Miss Dayton. \u00a0 \u00a0It was held in the open, anyone was free to attend, you did not charge an entry fee.\u00a0 You did not – I presume – throw any rocks, sticks, fire crackers or anything else that could cause harm or detriment to any of the townsfolk present -\u201d he looked at her sternly, as though that was important \u201cDid you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, of course not.\u201d she recoiled in horror at the thought, \u00a0then frowned \u201cTo be honest, I fainted. \u00a0 If it hadn\u2019t been for Mr Greigson I would have been trampled on or – or battered like poor Hester and Olivia and some others -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded, and leaned back in to his chair, \u201cI can\u2019t charge you for feeling guilty about what happened, Miss Dayton. \u00a0 That affray, that violence, was none of your doing.\u00a0 I\u2019ve arrested some and there will be others who will be visiting my cells in due course. \u00a0 If we can locate who harmed the Mrs\u2019 Cartwrights, and the other victims, they will be charged with assault, \u00a0even in some cases, manslaughter.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shivered, all because of that Meeting, \u00a0her Meeting, \u00a0the one she had insisted on, and which she now felt should have been cancelled, should have been forgotten about and abandoned. \u00a0 \u00a0She pulled out a handkerchief and dabbed her eyes,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr Carney, Sheriff I mean, \u00a0if I had known what would happen -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He waited until she had blown her nose and seemed more in control of herself, then nodded \u201cThe trouble is, Miss Dayton, \u00a0anyone who can read is aware of the fact that these Meetings have met with opposition and violence elsewhere\u2026even in other countries that may seem more forward thinking and liberal that our own. \u00a0 If you were aware of that fact, \u00a0then you will have to live with the guilt of what happened yesterday for the rest of your \u00a0natural days. \u00a0 \u00a0But legally, \u00a0I can\u2019t charge you \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stood up now, \u00a0and she slowly did likewise, thanked him very politely and turned to leave.\u00a0 He watched her go and sighed, resumed his seat and began to leaf through the statements of various townsfolk who had been more than eager to point the finger at someone \u00a0in the crowd whom they claimed had wielded sticks, stones and whatever else they could lay their hands on to the detriment of their neighbours.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy \u00a0had no sooner left the sheriff\u2019s office than she bumped into Daniel deQuille, who stepped back quite hurriedly to avoid a collision with her.\u00a0 He removed his hat, and doffed it politely,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Dayton?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed, opened her purse and rummaged about in it, until she found what she was looking for and produced an envelope addressed to him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMr deQuille, would you read this through for me, and after making any corrections, but without changing what I have written, would you print it in your Editorial?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He raised his eyebrows and then took the letter from her, looked down at the name that glared back up at him and nodded, \u201cMiss Dayton, why don\u2019t we have a cup of coffee at the Internationale and discuss this statement of yours? \u00a0 Then you can have full knowledge of any corrections that I may have to make \u2026 although with your scholarship I doubt very much if there will be any.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She frowned slightly and then nodded, \u201cThat seems fair enough, Mr deQuille.\u00a0 Thank you. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She glanced over her shoulder as she turned to walk along with him, \u00a0then looked at him, \u201cMr deQuille, have you seen Lucy Garston at all, or Miss Ridley?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, \u00a0I was refused entry into the Garston\u2019s household, and Miss Ridley was in the cells.\u00a0 I believe she is free now though, and shall call on her later today.\u00a0 Miss Lucy is in church with her parents.\u00a0 I am sure that Mr Garston will be delivering a fine sermon about Love thy neighbour as thyself does not include violence in the community\u2026after all, most of his congregation were busy hurling rocks and goodness knows what at one another yesterday.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy sighed, \u00a0something else for her to feel guilty about\u2026.she said nothing, but trailed along \u00a0by his side towards the Internationale.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia ran to the door as soon as she heard it opening. \u00a0 After removing his hat, Adam leaned down to pick her up and give her a hug before setting her down again to catch hold of Nathaniel who squeaked \u00a0\u201cWhere\u2019s Mommy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMommy\u2019s in hospital\u2026\u201d Sofia said quickly, and glanced at their father who looked tired and anxious, \u00a0the lines of his face had fallen into those she now knew meant he was worried, so she slipped her hand into his \u201cDid you see Mommy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded and carried Nathaniel into the parlour where Bridie was standing, as though she couldn\u2019t \u00a0be seated while she waited for them to return.\u00a0 Reuben stood up, placing the book he had been glancing through down on the arm of the chair.\u00a0 Adam caught his look, \u00a0saw the anxious face, \u00a0he saw all their anxious faces and had to clear his throat before he could speak.\u00a0 Behind him he could hear Hoss mumbling something to Ben, \u00a0who had been \u00a0upstairs when they had arrived.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYour Ma is getting better.\u201d Adam said, and thought to himself how hollow those words sounded, \u00a0just words, \u00a0he looked at their faces, and saw that none of them looked convinced. \u00a0 \u201cShe\u2019s stronger, \u00a0and -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre her bones mending, Daddy?\u201d Sofia wanted to know, hanging \u00a0upon his arm and dragging him towards a chair<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet your Pa be, Sofia. \u201c Bridie said quietly and put a hand on the child\u2019s shoulder, \u201cLet him at least sit down.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss entered the room now, he seemed to fill it, \u00a0what little room was left after the other adults and children had been accommodated.\u00a0 He nodded at them all and found the settee to sit on, \u00a0Ben sat beside him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie now sat down and tried to take Nathaniel from his father but the child clung tight, his arms wrapped around Adam\u2019s neck like the tentacles of an octopus. \u00a0 Sofia leaned against her father and kissed that special scar on his face which reminded Adam of the scars that his dear Olivia would bear upon her smooth skin \u2026he bowed his head and rubbed \u00a0his eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss spoke \u201cWe saw that doctor \u00a0– he said Hester could come home in a few days, so long as she had good care and attention.\u00a0 I told him that Hop Sing would be there to make sure she got that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll be there too, \u00a0Hoss.\u00a0 Paul said I should be for both Olivia and Hester.\u201d \u00a0Bridie said authoritively, her Irish brogue stronger with her insistence and Hoss smiled and nodded his thanks. \u00a0\u201cShe ain\u2019t so badly hurt, just broken bones which are mending fine. \u00a0 \u00a0She has a plaster cast on her leg\u2026.\u201d he paused trying to think of something else to say.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWyngarde wouldn\u2019t let us bring the children in to see Olivia.\u201d Adam sighed, and reached out to stroke back a curl from Sofia\u2019s brow, \u00a0he smiled at her, a wistful smile, hoping she would understand and not fuss.\u00a0 Nathaniel sighed, \u00a0and settled his head upon his father\u2019s chest, too little to really understand but old enough to sense the unsettled atmosphere, the anxiety. \u00a0 He could hear the beat of his father\u2019s heart and feel his father\u2019s warmth through his clothing and that gave him some reassurance that all would \u00a0be well.\u00a0 With Pa being so close he always felt safe.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill she be allowed home soon?\u201d Ben asked, rubbing the knees of his pants with his hands, \u00a0in the silence of the room they could hear the rasping sound of his calloused old hands rubbing against the cloth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019ll be checking her eyes in a weeks time\u2026.but her hand is mending as best as it can. \u00a0 Wyngarde said she\u2019ll need to -\u201d he paused and cleared his throat again, \u201c she\u2019ll need to exercise her fingers, make sure -\u201d \u00a0he paused again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, she will need to do that,\u201d Bridie said and nodded \u201cIt\u2019ll prevent arthritis setting in and make her hand supple again. \u00a0 Anything else, Adam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMmm, Wyngarde said they can take the stitches out in a day or two.\u00a0 She may have a few scars\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll kiss them better, Daddy, I will\u2026\u201d Sofia declared stoutly and kissed him again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut she will be better, won\u2019t she, Pa?\u201d Reuben asked, standing now directly in front of his father, leaning against Adam\u2019s knees despite Nathaniel\u2019s attempts to push him away with his feet. As far as he was concerned possession of Pa\u2019s lap belonged solely to him.\u00a0 Adam slipped a hand down to stop the child from such actions and looked at Reuben, \u00a0saw the downcast face and nodded \u201cYes, Ma will be better soon, she just has more injuries than Aunt Hester.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd – and she won\u2019t be blind, will she?\u201d Reuben nearly choked on the words, \u00a0tears welled up in his eyes, \u00a0he leaned more heavily against Adam\u2019s legs and Adam leaned across Nathaniel to draw the boy closer<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, Reuben.\u00a0 No one will know until they take those bandages off next week.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia gave a wail \u201cI don\u2019t want Mommy to be blind, I don\u2019t want her to not see us anymore\u2026I don\u2019t \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHush now, that\u2019s enough, child.\u201d Bridie said sternly, and stood up, patted Sofia on the head, and turned her into her lap, so that she could give her a little comfort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben pursed his lips into a familiar pout, frowned and then stood up, \u201cWell, I think it would be a good idea if you children wrote a letter, or drew a picture for your Ma.\u00a0 How about that? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Perhaps not the most tactful thing to say, Sofia burst into tears anew declaring that her Mommy would not be able to see them, \u00a0and Reuben dashed out of the room, \u00a0they heard the front door open and close with a bang\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 64<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Perhaps he had expected his father to follow him. \u00a0 He didn\u2019t run far, just around the side of the house where the stable sheltered Pauls\u2019 old horse and buggy. \u00a0 He leaned against the door jamb and rested his head until he could feel the wood pressing into his brow.\u00a0 He closed his eyes and gave way to sobs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Even though he expected Adam to follow him it still caught him by surprise when Adams \u00a0hand settled upon his shoulder, heavy and yet comforting. \u00a0 He could feel the warmth of it seeping through his shirt and turned towards Adam, turned into his body, wrapped his arms around Adam\u2019s waist.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam drew the boy closer, then led him away from the door where people passing by may see them, speculate and surmise as people tend to do. \u00a0 He led Reuben to the back to the stable, \u00a0and set him down<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow then, son, \u00a0why not tell me all about it\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The deep voice was gentle, smooth as velvet, warm and comforting.\u00a0 In a way Reuben felt guiltier than ever, and he shivered inwardly as he wondered how to tell Pa \u2018all about it\u2019, \u00a0it was different talking to him, different to when he had told Ben and Joe.\u00a0 He pressed his face into his hands, and heard his father sigh\u2026but he still couldn\u2019t find the words.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you want me to guess? \u00a0 I could \u00a0be wrong, make matters worse\u2026\u201d Adam murmured, and squatted down so that he would be at a level to see the boy\u2019s face, \u201cCome along, Reuben, \u00a0I think you need to \u2018fess \u00a0up.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He used to say that to Joe, \u00a0so often he lost count before his brother had reached ten years of age. \u201c\u2019Fess \u00a0up, Joe\u2026what have you done this time?\u201d \u00a0 \u00a0\u201c\u2019Fess up, Joe, why had Miss Jones written this note this time!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nodded and stared down at the ground, unable to raise his face to meet his father\u2019s dark eyes, hating to think that the gentle look he may be wearing now would change to the dark features of an angry man, or the sad lines of a disappointed one.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was disobedient.\u201d he whispered and a tear dropped from his chin with a plop onto the dusty ground. \u00a0\u201cIt was my fault\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDisobedient?\u00a0 When?\u201d \u00a0 two words gently spoken, as though coaxing the boy to say more. \u00a0\u201cWhat do you think was – your – fault?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben swallowed back spit, his mouth seemed full of it, \u00a0he blinked and raised his face to look at Adam, who nodded as though encouraging him to speak,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was my fault Ma and Aunt Hester got hurt and – if I\u2019d gone -\u201d he paused and swallowed some more, \u201cI didn\u2019t go to the water hole.\u00a0 The boys wanted to come into town.\u00a0 Mrs Riley was going to make a speech and Dave said that he wanted to see what she said because he said she was really angry and it was sometimes funny when she was angry \u2026.\u201d \u00a0he lowered his head again, but Adam put a finger beneath his son\u2019s chin and raised it up so that they could look eye to eye, face to face, with each other. \u00a0 Reuben swallowed again, \u201cI didn\u2019t take any rocks or fire crackers, Pa, honest I didn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, Reuben couldn\u2019t see any discernable change in the man\u2019s face, \u00a0although the dark eyes seemed darker, \u00a0but that could have been because the stable was in shadow. \u00a0\u201cGo on, \u00a0how much did you see?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot much.\u00a0 Mrs Riley didn\u2019t get to say anything by the time we left\u2026.I said to Tommy and Jimmy we should go, we shouldn\u2019t be there and they came with me.\u00a0 Then Davy and then Richie. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo – when you were in \u00a0town, \u00a0whereabouts were you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe hid under the sidewalk – \u00a0we could get a good view from there, and we saw Miss Ridley and Peggy and Lucy Garston\u2026they was on a platform and then Miss Ridley was speaking and people started yelling. \u201c \u00a0he frowned, recalling the scene vividly in his memory \u201cI saw Ma and Aunt Hester, \u00a0and then I thought – I thought how we shouldn\u2019t be there, when people were shouting \u00a0I thought you would not want me to be there so I – \u00a0I got the boys to leave.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhy did you go into town anyway, Reuben?\u201d \u00a0Adam didn\u2019t move, still squatting, his hand resting now on Reuben\u2019s knee and his eyes on the boys face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben rubbed at his eyes \u201cI said to go swimming but they wanted to go to the Meeting, they said it would be fun\u2026Richie had \u2026\u201d he paused, shot a horrified glance at Adam who frowned and seemed to straighten his back as though anticipating what was to come, \u00a0guessing at what \u2019Richie had \u2026\u2019 \u00a0 so Reuben lowered his head, lowered his voice \u201cHe had some fire crackers – it sounded like fun, and I got so that I thought it would be funny to see what would happen, \u00a0but I didn\u2019t think really about it, about what could happen, and I didn\u2019t think there would be so many people there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see.\u201c \u00a0Adam paused and then released a sigh, \u00a0a slight frown as he asked \u201cAnd you left – when?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust when Miss Ridley was talking and someone shouted in the crowd. \u00a0 It didn\u2019t feel right, it didn\u2019t feel like it was going to be fun at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd then you went swimming?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nodded and Adam stood up, and ran his hand over his face, pursed his lips into a slight pout \u201cAnd what happened with the fire crackers?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know, I never saw \u2019em again.\u00a0 I think Richie dropped them \u00a0-\u201d \u00a0 he blinked, \u00a0trying to remember, had Richie said anything about them?\u00a0 He shook his head, \u201cI forget but he didn\u2019t bring them to the water hole.\u201d \u00a0he crinkled his brow \u201cI remember now, \u00a0Pa, Sheriff Carney came and asked me about the – the fire crackers. \u00a0 He said someone had found \u2018em but we didn\u2019t use \u2018em, Pa.\u00a0 Honest we didn\u2019t\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, frowned and looked down at his son, \u00a0then gestured for him to stand \u00a0up, which Reuben did, facing his father and looking up at the stern features,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave you told anyone else about this?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI told Granpa \u2026\u201d \u00a0Reuben blinked at the memory, \u201cThat\u2019s when Sheriff Carney came and asked me about the – the fire crackers like I said . .\u00a0 And I told Uncle Joe.\u201d \u00a0Reuben hung his head, \u201cI should have told you right off, Pa, but \u00a0it never seemed the right time\u2026and I was scared \u2026when I – I was in that hospital place and knew Ma was hurt I was scared case you were -\u201d he bowed his head and shook it from side to side until in the end he couldn\u2019t \u00a0bear the silence \u201cI thought you would be angry\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo excuses, Reuben.\u201d \u00a0Adam replied curtly and then remained quiet for what seemed a very long time although it was less than a minute before he nodded and looked at the boy again with narrowed eyes and that stern look on his face that Reuben hated, \u201cDisobedience always leads to results, \u00a0and often the results mean someone gets hurt, Reuben. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sir.\u201d \u00a0Reuben nodded, \u201cI – I know I deserve a tanning, Uncle Joe said you used to tan him when he was disobedient.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam bowed his head and grimaced \u201cHe said that, did he?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nodded, and looked at his father again, the stern look was fading, but he wasn;t sure about the look that was replacing it. \u201cPa, I\u2019m sorry, I\u2019m really sorry\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know it.\u201d \u00a0Adam said immediately, and let his hand touch the boys face before dropping to his side \u201cI wish \u00a0you had been obedient, Reuben, I wish you \u00a0had stayed away from town as I had told you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo do I, Pa.\u00a0 I haven\u2019t felt so good since – \u2019specially when Sheriff Carney came and said about what happened, and I had bad dreams too and I got scared I would go to jail too. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed, nodded and turned away, \u00a0then looked down at the boy, \u201cYou deserve a tanning, Reuben, for being plain disobedient,\u201d \u00a0he saw the boy quail, step back a pace before squaring up to face him, \u201cbut you did the right thing in the end, and you did right in telling the sheriff, and – hummp – me. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Another paused, he looked thoughtfully at the boy, \u201cI do understand what it\u2018s like when you seem to be the lone voice talking common sense and everyone of your friends is against you.\u00a0 So lets take that into consideration for now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor now, Pa?\u201d Reuben\u2019s voice quavered and he blinked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s a lot going on just now, Reuben, you do understand that, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Pa\u2026that\u2019s what I mean\u2026it was my fault, and Ma\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, \u00a0no, get that thought out of your head, son, what happened was not your fault.\u201d he placed a reassuring hand on the boys\u2019 shoulder, \u201cIt happened.\u00a0 Now we have to get on with the results and make the best of it.\u00a0 I reckon that these past few hours have worried you a lot and that will have been punishment enough for \u00a0you. \u00a0 But – disobey me again, and it\u2019s a walk to the barn for you.\u00a0 Do you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The boy nodded, relief along with pride flickered over his face and Adam nodded. \u00a0\u201cWell, no need to say another word about this, \u00a0we need to concentrate on getting your Mother home and in good health.\u201d he paused and then smiled, a weary smile, an anxious one, \u201cWe had best get inside, everyone will be worried about you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know I deserve a tanning, Pa \u2026.I know that \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s enough, Reuben.\u00a0 Enough said \u2026 \u201c and without another word Adam led the way out of the stable, and \u00a0back to the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda Ridley realised that if she didn\u2019t move soon, then she would fall asleep on the old settee in Mrs Carstairs apartment, and that would mean losing the impact of what she had meant to say. \u00a0 She shook her shoulders and straightened herself up,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMrs Carstairs, a moment more of your time, please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs Carstairs wiped her hands on her apron and hurried over to take the chair opposite Amanda.\u00a0 She was still wiping her hands nervously after she had sat down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMrs Carstairs – Mary isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrs Carstairs nodded, it had been so long since anyone had referred to her as Mary that she had to think for a moment to make sure that was actually her given name\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMary, I was thinking about – oh lots of things I suppose – since Miss Dayton asked me to take on the responsibility of the Meeting we had\u2026\u201d she paused and frowned, \u00a0then looked at the woman sitting opposite her looking confused and puzzled, obviously wondering where this conversation was leading \u201cI\u2019ve always \u00a0advocated the cause for \u00a0women to have the vote, to have equal rights to men.\u00a0 It\u2019s been something I have been reading about for a long time, and I have been corresponding with quite a number of women who are prominent in fighting for the cause -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Miss Ridley, I don\u2019t mean any disrespect but I\u2019m a pacifist myself – I really don\u2019t intend to get involved with fighting, not for anything.\u201d Mary Carstairs said and began to pleat the apron carefully in her lap, an action she often carried out if nervous.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou didn\u2019t attend the Meeting – what there was of it, did you?\u201d Amanda asked with a slight smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no, it doesn\u2019t interest me at all.\u201d Mary leaned forward \u201cYou see, \u00a0human nature is as human nature is – I mean – you can write down as many laws as you like about how to behave towards one another but it doesn\u2019t change what people do, does it? \u00a0 A man intent on beating up on his wife or children will still find a ways to do it, even if there is a law against it?\u00a0 Ain\u2019t that right? \u00a0 Having a law against anything doesn\u2019t change people if they have a mind to do the opposite of what the law says\u2026does it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda nodded \u201cHaving spent a night in the cells I can understand your logic.\u201d she smiled \u201cNo, what I was thinking was – \u201c she took a deep breath \u201cI wondered if you would like to take over management of the Emporium for me? \u00a0 You know everything there is to know about it, and -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Miss Ridley -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPlease hear me out, Mary.\u201d Amanda put a hand up to quieten the woman, \u201cI plan to leave Nevada, to leave Virginia City. \u00a0 \u00a0It won\u2019t be permanently, maybe a year or two, \u00a0but I need to leave my business in safe hands. \u00a0 You, Mary, are the safest pair of hands I know.\u00a0 I have full confidence in your ability to take care of my holdings, \u00a0of everything\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary felt a shiver run down her back. \u00a0 She had considered herself the most \u00a0blessed of women to have been given such pleasant work as she had, then in being given the apartment and now – this ? \u00a0 \u00a0She shook her head as though by doing so the facts of what Amanda had said would make some sense to her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean – you want me to be in charge?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, exactly that -\u201d \u00a0 she smiled and leaned forward to take hold of Mary by the hand, she could feel it tremble. \u00a0\u201cDon\u2019t under estimate your abilities, Mary.\u00a0 You are very capable.\u00a0 Apart from that, you have a natural feeling for the job.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut where will you go?\u00a0 How will I get in contact with you?\u00a0 What is something goes wrong?\u201d \u00a0Mary stood up as her employer had done, \u00a0Amanda smoothed her skirts and smiled<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNothing will go wrong, Mary. \u00a0 I will leave in a months time, when all my arrangements have been finalised.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut – I won\u2019t have to leave here, will I?\u00a0 I mean – \u00a0this apartment is so perfect for us, for Jimmy and me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI would prefer if you lived over the shop, so to speak\u2026\u201d Amanda smiled, and then turned to the door towards which she walked, \u201cMary, I shall arrange everything through Mr Woods, and I shall spend the coming month explaining everything to you, and showing you how to do the accounts and the other things necessary for you to know. \u00a0 Mr Anderson will take over management of Ridleys Mercantile\u2026as well as the Livery, which he is practically running single handedly as it is \u2026\u201d she smiled and then sighed, \u00a0\u201cThere now, I feel as though I have shed a weight off my shoulders.\u201d \u00a0she paused at the door and looked at the other woman \u201cI am sorry.\u00a0 I just realised.\u00a0 You didn\u2019t say whether or not you will accept my offer?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary nodded, swallowed and blinked with a great batting of eyelashes, \u201cOh yes, Miss Ridley, thank you.\u00a0 Thank you very much indeed\u2026..\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s no need to mention it to anyone, not just yet. \u00a0 It will be between us and Mr Woods for the time being\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled and pulled open the door \u201cGood day to you, Mary.\u00a0 Take care of yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Take care of yourself\u2026.\u00a0 Mary Carstairs watched Amanda Ridley descend the stairs and walk through the Emporiium and finally leave the building.\u00a0 For a moment she thought she was going to faint she felt so light headed. \u00a0 Then she looked down and around the store, at the mannequins, the boxes, the garments \u2026 the enormity of what she had agreed to overwhelmed her, she closed the door, almost staggered to the settee and sunk down upon it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t just the fact that she had been given the responsibility .. It was the fact that someone had the confidence in her ability to take it on.\u00a0 Someone like Miss Ridley had that much confidence in her, a woman who had had such feeling regularly beaten out of her by a man whom she had loved, still loved, but who had left her bereft of any self respect.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was enough to make her feel drunk with elation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 65<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Footsteps approached the bed. She could hear them as they clacked down upon the floor drawing nearer and nearer. She wondered to whom they would belong for she had not been there long enough to distinguish one from another as yet. An officious tread, not the quick light footed scampering of the younger nurses. She wondered if he or she were going to stop when reaching her bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sometimes behind the bandages she opened her eyes just in the hope that she would see a glimmer of light shining through. It always led to disappointment. So she kept her eyes closed for as much as she could, until sleep came to snatch her away from the misery she was now trapped, locked, into<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Even Hester didn\u2019t talk to her as much as she had earlier. But Hester had problems of her own and had admitted already that the drugs she was on made her very sleepy. Perhaps she was asleep now and Olivia turned her head then realised there was little point in looking because she could not tell if her friend were awake or sleeping or even still there in that particular bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed and clenched her fists, one of which, despite it being a feeble effort due to the bandages, sent a quick reminder to her not to do that again. Pain trickled up her arm, and tears wet her eyes and began to fall. \u2018I have to be brave\u2019 she told herself, \u2018I would tell the children to be brave if they were having to lay here like this\u2026.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The footsteps rose and fell, stopped. The blankets were pulled away, and the warmth seeped away and made her shiver. In silence someone began to rearrange her clothing,and then probing fingers, cold and hard, prodded here and there on her body, sending trickles of pain like ripples up and down her torso, making her toes curl. A sigh, breath smelling of onions and beef, wafted past her nostrils.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now someone was holding her injured hand, a voice, disembodied above her, asked if it hurt when he pressed here and here .. And she quietly said that it did, just a little. So the doctor had come, she wondered what he looked like, she had never met the doctors from the hospital at all. His bedside manner reminded her of Dr Schofield. She sighed now and immediately cold fingers were taking her pulse, feeling around her neck, around her head and asking \u201cDoes this hurt? Does this – or this -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The scratching of a pen,she imagined the ink bleeding into the white sheet of paper that would tell anyone who was interested what his latest findings were about Mrs Olivia Cartwright. She heard him talking to someone, and then the Matron\u2019s voice saying \u201cYes, Doctor, yes, of course Doctor.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The blankets were moved to cover her again. Their warmth had gone, she shivered, and wondered how much longer she would have to stay like that at their mercy. A warmer hand touched her face, gently moved over the cheekbones, before moving away. The Matron spoke in a crisp no nonsense voice \u201cTomorrow after breakfast you will be able to get out of bed and sit in a chair, won\u2019t that be nice?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

And then before Olivia could answer the footsteps moved away, the murmur of voices drifted from near her and came from another direction, another bedside. Perhaps it was Hester\u2019s turn to undergo the torture..but at least she could see who touched her, who invaded her body and had some kind of mastery over it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia waited until the warmth of her body finally permeated through the blankets to provide a warm cocoon for her again. When it was warm enough she would be able to sleep. She could feel herself drifting away when a voice said \u201cDrink this\u2026open wide, Mrs Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

An arm snaked beneath her shoulders and lifted her, someone else on the other side of the bed was plumping up the pillows upon which she could lean. The rim of a glass touched her mouth, jarring against her lips because she had failed to \u2018open wide\u2019 in time. She sipped water, took the pills, sipped more water. The younger nurse with the scampering footsteps departed to, perhaps, plump up some other pillows. The Matron put the glass down, Olivia could hear the clunk of it upon the night stand. Then there was the clack clack of the Matron\u2019s heels upon the floor, followed by the authoritative stamp of the Doctor\u2019s shoes. She imagined them being black leather, highly polished by some dutiful wife \u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOlivia?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester\u2019s whisper roused her from sleep, or had she been awake all the time and had not known it. \u201cYes? \u201c the footsteps had stopped, somewhere \u201cAre you all right?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, they said we can sit in the chairs tomorrow instead of being in bed all day. That\u2019s good, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s your hand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt hurts\u2026\u201d she said softly and realised that there were a lot of hurts and even as she thought that she could feel the pains becoming duller , \u201cHester, tell me about the Doctor. What does he look like? What does the Matron look like? Tell me how they look, if they are kind and sympathetic. Their fingers don\u2019t tell me much \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester leaned back against the pillows and closed her eyes, just for a moment she tried to imagine what it was like for Olivia with her eyes covered, the bandages secure around her head. She drew in her breath and tried to recall details of the doctor that would interest her friend who listened for as long as she could before Hester’s gentle voice helped her drift back into sleep.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia wrapped her arms around her father\u2019s neck and leaned her head into his shoulder. She sat upon Adam\u2019s lap trying to be still, not to fidget, even though she had been listening to Granpa, Bridie and her Uncle talking and talking, their words flying over her head and making little sense. Her father had listened and nodded but didn\u2019t seem to want to speak.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Princess?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned towards her, his dark eyes looking right at her, and he smiled. She loved his smile when the dimples would come into his cheeks, she leaned up and kissed his scar, the one on his cheekbone, \u201cDaddy, can we come with you to see Mommy later?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m afraid not, sweetheart. The Doctor won\u2019t allow it, and the Matron -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat Dragon lady?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, her – well, she said children were not allowed under any circumstances because they bring in germs.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t have any germs. I wouldn\u2019t bring any germs. It would only be me and Reuben. We wouldn\u2019t bring in anyone else.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled slightly, and shook his head \u201cGerms aren\u2019t people, or pets, they\u2019re -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut I don\u2019t have any, Daddy. Really and truly I don\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He scratched the nape of his neck, and looked at her in that confused manner adults had when they realise that they wouldn\u2019t be able to explain something to a child well enough for the child to understand. He sighed and glanced over at Ben who was talking now to Reuben, but Ben didn\u2019t catch his son\u2019s gaze and Hoss was engaged now with Bridie. He looked at Sofia again<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, this Dragon lady – mind you, don\u2019t you go calling her that when you meet her -\u201d he frowned although his eyes twinkled \u201cYou won\u2019t will you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d she breathed the word and her eyes watched his face knowing that he was going to tell her a story.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, this Dragon Lady is afraid that children will bring strange little fairies into the ward. She doesn\u2019t understand these fairies, nor does the Doctor. She knows what most people know, that some fairies are good, and some are bad. The Doctor has told the Dragon Lady that because they don\u2019t know which are the good ones and the bad ones, then it was best not to have any fairies in the ward at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut the good fairies would like to help the people in the room who are sick, wouldn\u2019t they?\u201d Sofia whispered in case the Dragon Lady could hear her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but -\u201d Adam lowered his voice \u201cthe Doctors also know the bad fairies sometimes pretend to be good, and they can hurt the people very much. So they think that it would be safer to keep them all out and then the people would be kept safe.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia thought about it, screwed up her face and then sighed \u201cBut I\u2019m a good fairy, Daddy. I want to make my mummy better\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed and leaned back, then nodded and kissed her on the forehead. His head ached, he knew Sofia would persist in her demands and her voice would become a shrill little whine. He felt too on edge to handle it with any patience \u201cI need to go out and see someone\u2026be good for Bridie.\u201d and he stood up, swung her off his lap while doing so and deposited her beside Bridie who instinctively wrapped her arm around the child\u2019s waist.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He gave his father and brother a curt nod and left the room, they heard the door close behind him.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda had only just removed her jacket when she heard the tapping on the door. She shrugged her shoulders slightly and tossed the jacket over the arm of a chair as she passed it on the way to the hall. Peggy stood on the threshold with Daniel deQuille standing by her side, she gave one a smile but the other a scowl and a command to go away and leave her alone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI merely came to escort the lady to your home, Amanda. Ben doesn\u2019t seem to think it safe for her to be alone.\u201d he smiled, tipped his hat to her and then with a wink at Peggy turned away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda watched until he had closed the picket gate and set his feet towards home. Then she looked at Peggy, \u201cI wouldn\u2019t trust him as far as I could throw him when he smells a good story.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe was kind enough with me,\u201d Peggy replied wondering if she was ever going to be invited inside the older woman\u2019s home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda nodded and beckoned Peggy inside, closed the door and followed Peggy into the sitting room. \u201cI\u2019ll make us some coffee and then we have to talk, Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, of course.\u201d Peggy untied the ribbons of her bonnet and set it to one side, while she waited for Amanda to return.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It seemed to take some time before Amanda returned with a laden tray, which she set down upon the low table. She sat down in the chair opposite Peggy and poured out the hot drinks, then nodded to the cookies and biscuits on the plate, obviously a command to help herself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAmanda, I just wanted to apologise for yesterday.\u201d Peggy began, and then sat there looking intently into Amanda’s face while clutching hold of the biscuit in both hands as though it were a talisman to protect her from evil.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cApologise, for what? It wasn\u2019t your fault that so many idiots attended with the determination to ruin it all for us. Look, this was a joint venture, the three of us were in it together, so don\u2019t be a martyr for the cause, we were all part of it.\u201d she sipped her coffee all the while observing the young woman carefully; she could tell every emotion going on in Peggy\u2019s head by the shadows that fell and rose over her countenance. \u201cThis is a cause I believe in, Peggy. Don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, of course I do.\u201d she looked down at the biscuit and wondered if she should take a bite now before the conversation got too serious, or was it already too late and she had missed her chance. It was difficult to speak about a serious subject when spraying biscuit crumbs everywhere as one spoke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo what are you going to do about it?\u201d Amanda leaned back against the cushions on the chair and raised her eyebrows, \u201cAre you prepared to dedicate your life to it\u2026to have further Meetings like this one until we reach our objective?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAmanda, people were hurt during this Meeting. The Cartwrights were injured – Hester and Olivia\u2026 some died\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda nodded and leaned forward \u201cThere are going to be a lot more Meetings like that, Peggy. This Meeting proved to me that this is going to be a long drawn out war, not a single battle, but a long long fight. It could be years before other women are open minded enough to look at what this is all about, and realise the potential the future holds for them. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow many years?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, as if I could tell you that!\u201d Amanda laughed, a rather harsh laugh, dismissive, and made Peggy feel like a child being corrected by a teacher in class. \u201cBut there were women in the crowd who threw obstacles at us, who fought others- \u201c she frowned, \u201cSome were in the cells with me, and their language and attitude towards votes for women were so ignorant, so amazingly blinkered that there was simply no reasoning with them.\u201d she shrugged now and leaned slightly forward “The Undertaker’s wife, Mrs Riley for instance – she had come determined to get on the platform, push me off and give a speech herself. Can you imagine that? I’ve known that woman for years, her husband buried my father and sister …and she has the effrontery to assume that she can give a speech extolling the virtues of a woman’s existence in the here and now!” she threw her hands wide in exasperation, and then stood up and began to pace the floor.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d she clasped her hands together, as she continued her pacing, \u201cWe could all stop right here and now, and do nothing more. But I think what we should do is change our tactics\u2026.print leaflets, brochures, tracts \u2026write editorials in the papers, write speeches\u2026and even if it does take years which I believe it will …eventually some women will see the point and join our forces.\u201d she stopped right in front of Peggy, and smiled \u201cWhat do you think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy was about to nod and speak when there came another knock on the door, at the same time the clock on the mantle chimed. As Amanda started for the door Peggy stood up, \u201cI have to go. I promised the Cartwrights to be at the Martins house by now. Would you excuse me? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda raised her eyebrows, so far as she was concerned Peggy had stepped off the narrow road of dedication, she was showing a wavering attitude. But she nodded and led Peggy to the door, which upon opening discovered Lucy Garston, smiling, and eyes twinkling, on the doorstep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As she bade farewell to Peggy, she stepped aside to let Lucy enter. Peggy hesitated for a moment and then stepped back into the house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 66<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate Carney was not surprised to see Adam Cartwright step into his office. He nodded, stood up and walked over to the stove where coffee was spitting onto the hob, and poured out two cups which he brought over to the desk. He placed one in front of Adam who had pulled out a chair and sat down, crossed one leg over the other and was seriously contemplating a Wanted poster on the wall.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was expecting you eventually\u201d Nate said quietly as he managed to eke his 6\u20197\u201d frame into his chair behind the desk. \u201cHow is your wife and sister in law?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re – as well as can be expected \u201c Adam said, repeating the words the Dragon had mentioned earlier, \u201cI\u2019d prefer it if they were both home safe and well.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNaturally, anyone would.\u201d Nate leaned forward, his hands clasped together to form an anchor upon which he could rest his chin, \u201cI\u2019ve quite a number of statements and several citizens locked up but none give any indication of being in the area where Olivia and Hester were – \u201c he opened a drawer and pulled out a thick wodge of paper, \u201cIt\u2019s interesting how no one did anything, but everyone could point a finger at someone who did\u2026yet I know for a fact that each person here is guilty of assault in some kind or another.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded \u201cReuben mentioned about some fire crackers\u2026.I remember hearing some go off, but -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve seen the boy who brought them along.\u201d Nate sighed, and leaned back into his chair, \u201cApparently David Riley\u2019s mother had given him some discipline the previous evening which Master Davy didn\u2019t like so he thought the boys could attend the meeting and disrupt his mother\u2019s speech -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSpeech? Mrs Riley?\u201d Adam raised his eyebrows derisively<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAn impromptu speech\u201d Nate smiled slowly, his attractive face softening as a result, \u201cRichie supplied the fire crackers and Davy the matches. But it seems your boy pulled out of the stunt, he wanted to get back to swimming so they left\u2026.Richie was last to go, he was seen by a man out to cause trouble, who took the fire crackers and the boy just ran for it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, then glanced at the statements \u201cAnd no idea who cast the first stone\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nate shook his head \u201cEveryone\u2019s blaming somebody else and to be honest, I can\u2019t even rely on my own memory now, after reading these statements – and I know there are more to come! It was a mess, bigger than I anticipated to be honest, although I did anticipate trouble just not on that scale.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sipped his coffee and cradled the cup within his hands, Nate pulled out one statement and passed it to the rancher \u201cThis is one Peggy gave me earlier\u2026 not that she\u2019s guilty of throwing any rocks, of course, more of an apology if anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam picked it up, sighed and then put it back down on the desk, unread.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Amanda Ridley smiled at her two young visitors, replenished Peggy’s cup of coffee and provided Lucy with a fresh one, then sat down opposite them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, how are you, Lucy? Have your dear parents treated you well considering you really were like Peggy, a heroine of the storm.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy looked at Lucy with a slight frown, as the other young woman simpered a little after Amanda\u2019s compliment, \u201cI am not in my parent\u2019s good books, no, not at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Silence lulled, Peggy thought how she had never been in her parent\u2019s, or at least one parent\u2019s good books, and sighed. Amanda nodded as though in sympathy although it was clear from the look on her face that she was already steaming ahead, so to speak, beyond local parents and their umbrage. She set down her cup and said that the time had come to consider their future strategy. Lucy nodded, Peggy frowned more deeply, and Amanda took a deep breath and plunged ahead –<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis Meeting shows how narrow minded people out west are; they just are not ready for emancipation. They have no comprehension of what changes women can make to society if they were allowed to vote. It seems beyond their ability to understand what exactly we are wanting, and what women should be grasping with both hands, the freedoms that men take for granted.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lucy nodded enthusiastically while Peggy thought to herself that this rhetoric is what they understood already, she didn’t need to hear it from Amanda. It was what they wanted people, not just the local people here, but everywhere, to understand. She felt restless, wishing she had continued on her way to the Martins\u2019 house instead of staying here. Lucy piped up with \u201cWhat do you plan on doing next, Amanda? Another Meeting?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy viewed the older woman with interest, and Amanda smiled, shook her head, and cleared her throat, \u201cNo, we can\u2019t risk a re-occurrence of what happened here again. It would do far more harm than good.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut then – if we do nothing – what we had set out to do will be forgotten, ignored. It will have all been worthless.\u201d Lucy pouted, her rather pretty face creased with a sulkiness that Peggy found rather irritating and childish.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt won\u2019t be worthless, Lucy.\u201d Amanda said quietly, \u201cI have plans -\u201d she paused and looked at them both before leaning forward as though wishing to confide in them, the two younger women leaned forwards also \u201cI shall write a series of Editorials for the Enterprise to print. People here need educating. They need to read for themselves what we want them to know. It is often said that people absorb facts in two ways\u2026or rather that there are two ways in which people remember facts \u2026\u201d she paused as though searching through her own memory to ensure she had got her own facts right. \u201cOne- through the eyes, that is, through the printed word. What they read they absorb like seeds, and after constant reading the seeds begin to grow, rather like – well, like seeds do when watered. Repetitive editorials will effectively teach them what they are missing.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen the next Meeting we hold will be easier, with a more attentive audience.\u201d Lucy exclaimed, her eyes shining like the zealous suffragette she was now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd what\u2019s the other method?\u201d Peggy asked, hoping she didn\u2019t sound too caustic.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThrough what they hear\u2026.repeat something often enough and people absorb what they hear, then they repeat it to someone else, and slowly begin to accept the facts they have heard. \u201c Amanda smiled, \u201cThere are a number of women, and men, in town who believe women should have the vote. When the Editorials are printed they will discuss them, in public, loudly\u2026or in private to their neighbours and friends. That, my dears, is the way forward. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThese men and women, were they at the Meeting yesterday?\u201d Peggy asked quietly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSome \u2026I did see them there. But, Peggy, your friend Mary Ann would have been one of them. She can still play her part, you know. Just because we lost this battle, doesn\u2019t mean we have lost the war.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEven if it may take years to win?\u201d Peggy drawled, and set down her cup.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to be prepared for that eventuality, Peggy. It will require a lot of patience on our part, and a lot of co-operation, a pulling together to get the job done.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both Lucy and Peggy nodded at that, both unsmiling, both looking determined and undefeated. Amanda stood up \u201cWell, I had better get going. I have people to see. Lucy, thank you for coming.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI just wanted to see how things had gone on, if you had anything you needed to tell us. \u201c Lucy replied, suddenly feeling rather adrift as though her presence was not really required or necessary. She hadn\u2019t even been able to tell them how badly she had been treated at home, about her parent\u2019s attempts to persuade her to stop having anything to do with Peggy or Amanda. She wanted them to say well done and bravo for defying them – by coming here and hearing plans for the future. She sighed and stood up, picked up her bonnet and turned to leave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy bade Lucy goodbye, and as she walked away from the Ridley house, considered the fact that it had been she, and she alone, who had put the match to the flame here, who had, with Mary Ann Cartwright, began the campaign. Now it seemed it had been taken out of her hands by Amanda Ridley, and while Amanda\u2019s zeal for suffrage was burning hot, her own had cooled considerably. She was at a loss as to understand why or how that had happened!<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was inevitable that Peggy would meet Adam as he was on his way back to the Martins\u2019 from Nate\u2019s. When she saw him striding down the sidewalk her steps faltered slightly, but as soon as she realised that he had seen her she knew there was no way of avoiding him. She walked onwards until they met just outside the Internationale, he nodded and looked at the hotel, \u201cA few moments of your time, Peggy, before we get to the Martins.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She inclined her head, aware that she was flushing, she could feel the heat seeping upwards through her spine and over the collar of her jacket. Together they went into the hotel and he led her to a table, tucked conveniently away in a far corner.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d she heaved in a deep breath, \u201cI am so sorry about yesterday. I never, ever, thought anything like that could happen here in Virginia City.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He said nothing, but set his hat down on the table, ordered two coffee\u2019s from the hovering waiter and looked at her. \u201cIt wasn\u2019t a good thing, Peggy. But I have a feeling you have been told that already, several times over I should imagine.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes., and I have apologised each time, just as I\u2019m apologising to you now. If I had even imagined such a thing – and Olivia and Hester – and others -\u201d she shivered, and closed her eyes momentarily, before opening them to look into his face, \u201cIt was unthinkable.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes,\u201d he nodded, and realised that he was tired, tired of talking about it, tired of people apologising and beating their breasts in expiation in the hope that their part in it all would be forgotten, or ignored.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJoe was angry with me.\u201d she said with that simplicity that was so child like and still likeable about her, \u201cHe shouted, told me to go away -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, he wished he could do the same. For a moment he realised that he wished he could have done that to a lot of people many times over in his life. He wondered why he hadn\u2019t and then answered his own question by reminding himself he would not want to lose that control of himself; he always saw the consequences of such actions that he would ultimately have to clear up. He looked up at her, at the earnest face, the brown eyes looking moist with unshed tears – he wondered whether for herself, for what happened, or for Olivia and Hester.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When they got eye contact Peggy hastily lowered hers, and flushed with the heat of embarrassment, in a very quiet voice she almost whispered \u201cYou\u2019re – you\u2019re not angry with me too? Are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced away and stared out of the window. At the particular moment he couldn\u2019t answer, he didn\u2019t know what to reply. No, he wasn\u2019t angry but – and thoughts of Olivia and Hester drifted to the surface of his mind again. He suppressed any emotions they aroused in him and turned to look at her, saw the confusion, fear, misery on her face and recognised the little girl she had once been when years ago those same emotions would flood over her freckled countenance every time he saw her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rather than answer her question he asked one of his own, \u201cSo what do you plan to do now, Peggy? Stay here or leave? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She stared down at the brown liquid in the cup, she felt she was floating in the beverage already, she sighed \u201cYou mean leave the Ponderosa and move into town?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose you could do that, move in with Amanda – continue your campaign from there. It could become your Head Quarters.\u201d he smiled, thinly, and if he sounded caustic he intended to and didn\u2019t, for once, care.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I mean, no, I don\u2019t think so. I don\u2019t want to move into town.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo you\u2019ll be staying on at the Ponderosa, despite Joe\u2018s loss of temper?\u201d he raised his cup to his lips, drank some of the coffee and watched her from over the rim.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He could see that she was unsure of herself now, her downcast eyes stared too long at the coffee swirling in her cup. She sighed and shook her head,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam, I feel out of my depth.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReally? That\u2019s some admission coming from you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI mean it. I feel as thought I have slipped my moorings \u2026no, I don\u2019t mean that I think I\u2019ve gone mad, or delusional or anything like that\u2026just that, like a little boat I have drifted away from my real purpose in being here. I got carried away by the tide of – of something I can\u2019t even describe. But my place isn\u2019t here. I don\u2019t belong here. I thought for a while that perhaps I could slip back into being Peggy Dayton, and that the town would accept me and -\u201d she pushed the cup and saucer away, and shook her head \u201cThey brought up some bad things about my father\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt happens. People have long memories. You have to remember everyone has more than one role to play in life, take Frank as an example\u2026he was your father, a devoted one. He was Laura\u2019s husband, an unfaithful one. He was a gambler, womaniser and a few other things too that this town will always remember him being -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd my coming back just stirred all those memories up in their minds and – and caused them to create that trouble yesterday?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I don\u2019t think so. I think it was just convenient for them that some remembered your connection with Frank, and mentioned it. Their sole purpose in coming yesterday was to cause trouble. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Olivia and Hester – ?\u201d her voice broke, cracked a little, she cast her head down and gulped back tears, \u201cI couldn\u2019t believe it when they said – Olivia and Hester – they didn\u2019t even want to be there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d the word drifted out on a sigh<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI made Hester promise to come, to give me some support. I thought so few would be there – and she said that she would ask Olivia – and I was so glad to see them when I stepped on that platform and saw them there.\u201d she pulled out a handkerchief, and dabbed at her eyes. \u201cHow are they, will they be alright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He shrugged, at another table someone laughed, a woman\u2019s voice, shrill and too loud. He waited for the sound of it to ebb away. \u201cThey aren\u2019t at all well, but making progress.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBen said that Olivia\u2019s eyes -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe won\u2019t know until next week when they take the bandages off.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey must hate me.\u201d Peggy moaned, her voice shaking with emotion, and she dabbed at her eyes again. \u201cI can\u2019t bear to think about it\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded \u201cI find it hard to do so too\u2026.\u201d he stood up, placed some money down on the table and picked up his hat. \u201cAre you coming? I believe Bridie is expecting you .\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His voice was crisp, curt. In a way she had expected it to be like that, but it still stung that the man she had loved so much could be so cold towards her. She stood up, picked up her purse and followed him from the room and out into the street.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 67<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It had been decided by the adults that Reuben and Sofia would stay with Paul and Bridie for a few days, perhaps the week, until they knew whether or not Olivia would be coming home. Joe and Mary Ann had accompanied Adam and Hoss when they went to see their wives, and been very quiet when leaving the hospital. Shocked and dismayed at seeing the two women\u2019s injuries, and at the realisation that it could have been far worse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s anger was also fuelled by the fact that Mary Ann could have been among the injured. It wasn\u2019t quelled when Adam reminded him that no one who had been on the platform had been hurt, in fact, had he not gone to Lucy\u2019s aid he may have been able to reach Olivia and Hester before they had been injured so much. But it did nothing to calm him down, and Mary Ann, tight lipped and quiet, said nothing to calm the fire down.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat if they had been killed?\u201d she whispered to Joe on the way home, her arm through his, and leaning upon his shoulder, \u201cHow would Adam have managed without Olivia? Or Hoss without Hester? The children \u2026\u201d she shivered \u201cDid you notice how quiet the children were? Even Nathaniel and he doesn\u2019t even understand what\u2019s going on.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wish Peggy had never stepped foot back here.\u201d Joe growled and flicked the reins to get the horse moving faster.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt isn\u2019t entirely Peggy\u2019s fault, Joe. If Amanda hadn\u2019t gone along with it all, and thought up that parade and platform charade, then I think Peggy could have been talked out of it. \u201c she glanced up at her husband and sighed, the set look on his face didn\u2019t seem to indicate that a few words would mollify him. \u201cshe kept out of your way today though, didn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood. I hope she continues doing so, I don\u2019t want to see her face on the Ponderosa again.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann said nothing, she knew that Ben was far more conciliatory, and had agreed for Peggy to return until she had decided what to do. Hoss and Adam voiced no opinion, their minds solely upon their wife\u2019s welfare, and the future of their families.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The children in the play ground played as though nothing untoward had happened. When Sofia and Reuben walked through the gates to join the others a few stopped to look at them, but continued with their play. Richie ran up, put out his hand and said how sorry he was, but Reuben had just shrugged him off and so the other boy had stood back wondering what he had done wrong.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rosie and Annie Sales came to walk alongside them, Rosie slipped her arm through her friends and looked with big mournful eyes at Sofia as though it was the only way she could convey her sympathies with her. Annie offered her candy which was politely refused, Sofia felt heart sick and somehow – as she told the two girls – it made her tummy feel too full for food.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Davy and Jimmy came up and walked alongside Reuben as though forming some kind of protective guard. \u201cMy Ma\u2019s real worried sick about your Ma, Reuben\u201d Davy said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs she?\u201d Reuben replied in a tone of voice that indicated he didn\u2019t really care about Mrs Riley’s opinion \u201cThey won\u2019t let me and Sofia in to see her, you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDoctors are like that,\u201d Jimmy said quietly, \u201cThey like giving orders.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey have to,\u201d David said as though he were the fount of all wisdom, \u201cSomeone has to make rules. \u201c he nudged Reuben\u2019s arm \u201cDo you know when they\u2019ll let her home?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo. Aunt Hester is coming home on Saturday, but my Ma – they want to find out if she\u2019s going to be blind or not.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

His voice did a wobble when he said those words, and the other two boys looked at one another, both felt different emotions within them but sympathy and fear Were among them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The bell tolled and they formed their lines in order to enter the big school. Sofia shivered, she had wanted so much to see her Ma. She had prayed about it too, and she felt despair – not that she knew that word or understood the emotion – but that was what filled her little mind now, for she had received no answer, no idea on how she would get to see Ma.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She trailed up the stairs and took her seat, Annie leaned over to whisper \u201cJane\u2019s Aunt Esme died you know – she had a stoat.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh dear – \u201c Sofia sighed, \u201cWas it serious?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, she died so it must have been\u2026.that\u2019s why she isn\u2019t at school today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Jane Spencer was not the most popular girl in school, but even so Sofia felt sorry for her, she knew that Jane was very fond of her Aunt Esme.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In Reubens class whispers were going around about various children who had had family members injured or killed during the Meeting. Reuben kept his head down, misery and sympathy struggling within him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Hayward had been very patient with Sofia and several other pupils whose parents had been injured in the fracas of the Saturday meeting. The class had been conducted in a silence that was highly unusual for most often there was some form of energy buzzing about them. But everyone seemed languid and the number of sighs that were heard from children so young conveyed to her the extent of the anxiety the children were feeling. She decided that a free discussion of what had occurred, and the result of it, allowing the children to express how they felt about their family, friends etc being hurt, would mitigate the pain.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sadly it led to tears.\u00a0 But at least they now understood that Mrs Spencer had died of a stroke, and no animals had been involved no matter what Rosie said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia chewed on the top of her pencil until there were splinters in her mouth but there was nothing else she could do as she listened to various children weep or hic-cp their way through their experience of the weekend. It tore at her imagination to think that her Momma could have been hurt by family members of her school friends, people she knew.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As she chewed and the thoughts whirled through her head going in one direction after another, she decided she had had enough. Mustering up her courage she stood up, and in a tearful voice asked if she could please go home. She felt unwell. She could not stay any longer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Sofia, it\u2019s a long way to the Ponderosa, dear. Now sit down -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI’m staying here in town at my Aunt Bridie\u2019s\u2026.she said<\/p>\n

to go there if I feel ill because I said this morning before I came to school that I didn\u2019t feel so well and she said -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBridie Martin, the Doctor\u2019s wife?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia nodded, and a tear dripped from her eye and made its way, slowly, down her cheek. Miss Hayward sighed, nodded and told her to go straight there, no lingering on the way. Did she want an older child to go with her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia meekly hung her head and stared at the floor. Rosie put her hand up \u201cMiss, Miss, Sofia\u2019s brother could take her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Miss Hayward nodded, an excellent solution. She quickly scribbled something on a piece of paper and called Rosie to the front of the class \u201cPlease deliver this to Mr Evans. Sofia, get your things together now and wait outside for your brother.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As Sofia gathered her things together as she had been told, she meekly thanked Miss Hayward for being so kind and quickly left the room. She closed the door very carefully behind her and then stood in the lobby, near the top of the stairs, while she waited for Reuben.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben was somewhat bemused to be sent from the room with instructions to take his sister to Mrs Martins\u2019 house as she had been taken ill. It just couldn\u2019t have worked out better he thought as he clattered his way from the class room, his exit followed by several envious pairs of eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSofia? What\u2019s wrong? Are you really sick?\u201d he whispered as he grabbed for her hand and thought that she looked perfectly alright to him, \u201cAre you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded, and fluttered her eyelids in what she thought was a parody of ill health. So he held her hand and together they descended down the stair case and out into the street. Once outside she stopped and shook off his hand<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI want to see Mommy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d Reubens eyes went wide and then narrowed and he shook his head \u201cAre you playing a game?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia nodded \u201cI want to see Mommy and I want to go to the hospital.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Sofia, you told a lie\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I didn\u2019t – I was feeling sick. I really was, Reuben. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stared at her and then a little smile fluttered about his mouth, he leaned closer to her \u201cI was thinking of a plan on how to get to see her, Sofia. You just beat me to it by a whisker.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI did -\u201d Sofia put her fingers to her face to feel for whiskers, then frowned \u201cBut – what do you mean? What plan?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOn how to get in to see Ma of course.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She beamed, a smile widened her lips and she grabbed at his hand \u201cCome on then\u2026come on, Reuben.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The building was not so far away as to make little legs weary, and it was not long before the children were outside the impressive hospital. They stopped to stare at it for a moment before Reuben looked at her, \u201cWell, here we are – now how do we get in.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThrough the door -\u201d Sofia said and pointed to the large doors, and then looked at the people going up the steps towards them without, it seemed , a care in the world. She pulled at Reuben\u2019s hand \u201cCome on – \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben was amazed at his sister\u2019s casual approach to a rather corpulent woman who was about to push the doors open and found herself accosted by a little girl with tear streaked cheeks \u201cPlease, ma\u2019am, can I – and my brother – go in with you and wait inside for our Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The woman looked around her for this thoughtless male who had obviously left his children to fend for themselves. She tutted and shook her head before putting a hand on Sofia\u2019s shoulder, \u201cPoor child, come along in then. I\u2019m going to see my daugher. Shes had a fever -\u201d and chattering on to the two children who cared nothing at all for hr daughter she led the way inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t ask any questions as the two children followed her to the receptionist, stood silently by her side, listened to the Nurse telling the lady where and which ward her daughter was on . She didn\u2019t even bat an eyelid when they followed her across the foyer and to the elevator and went up with her to the ward, inside just talked on, dipping her hand every so often into a bag of candy, some of which she handed to them<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When the three of them reached the waiting room they were all three chewing on candy and getting along famously. But now she stopped and looked around her, then at the children, \u201cNow then, I\u2019m afraid this is where we have to part, my dears. You can wait for your father here, but you\u2019re not allowed into the ward, you know that, don\u2019t you?:\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They both nodded their heads and looked innocently up at her. She smiled, nodded and then left them alone. Reuben looked at Sofia,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow what? \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia frowned, that was a good question. The hospital was big, and she wasn\u2019t even sure if they were on the same ward as their mother. She looked at Reuben<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou came with Daddy, is this the right place for where Ma is?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben shrugged and then shook his head \u201cI don\u2019t think so.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAsk that nurse over there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut she\u2019ll send us packing – children aren\u2019t allowed in the hospital.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou were allowed with daddy that time\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He looked at her, thought about that and then nodded. He approached the Nurse and with a polite smile asked her very pleasantly if she knew if Mrs Cartwright was in this particular ward. The Nurse frowned, although she was not the Dragon lady she was very \u2019starched\u2019. she looked from Reuben to Sofia and back to Reuben \u201cShouldn\u2019t you be in school now?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re waiting for our Pa. He\u2019ll be here soon but we weren\u2019t sure we came to the right ward.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked t thoughtful, then shrugged \u201cGo out the doors there – across the hall, and the next door – wait in the waiting room there for your father.\u201d she stared at him very sternly \u201cYou do not go into the ward, just wait there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They both nodded, thanked her and hurried away through the doors into the hallway and through the next set of doors. Reuben looked around him, and nodded, then walked to the<\/p>\n

window. Looking out he saw the same view he had seen the day he came with Adam and Ben. \u201cThis is it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sat down on one of the chairs and looked around her. The room was empty, and apart from the low buzz of voices from the ward there was little sound. She looked at Reuben, courage was seeping away, she really was feeling sick now. At the back of her mind she had a feeling that Adam would not be pleased to know they had lied, even if it were to see Ma. She looked at Reuben who was watching the door to the ward as though wondering what magic word to use for them to open. He knew all he had to do was push them, they would open and he could step inside\u2026 and there didn\u2019t seem to be anyone at all near by to stop him.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He glanced over at Sofia and jerked his head towards the door. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 68<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester sat in the chair and stared out of the window. Her mind was racing as she wondered what her children would be doing now. How would Erik be behaving, he was so grizzly with his teething, far worse that the girls had been. She glanced over at Olivia who was seated beside her bed, looking lost and forlorn. Every patient in the ward had been hauled out of their beds and placed in chairs next to them, as if the nurses would forget which patient belonged to which bed if they were moved elsewhere.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But Hester could look out of the window and see the clouds scudding across the blue sky. She could see the townsfolk below, some of whom she recognised. She glanced again over at Olivia and felt a stab of panic welling up inside herself. What if Olivia were blind for life? Never to see again. Never to notice the changes in her children as they grew from childhood into adults. How would she handle such a transition in her life? What changes would they all have to make to accommodate her lack of sight? Was Olivia thinking the same things?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOlivia?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes?\u201d the other woman turned her face towards the direction of the voice and smiled, but Hester knew that even if there had there been no bandages covering the eyes, that there was no warmth, no emotion in the smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m so sorry, Olivia\u2026if I hadn\u2019t insisted so much on your coming with me, you would be safely at home now. I should have just left the matter alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHester, I\u2019ve told you before there was nothing for you to apologise about\u2026.I was quite capable of saying no. The fact is that I wanted to go for Peggy\u2019s sake\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFor Peggy?\u201d Hester frowned, \u201cBut I didn\u2019t think you agreed with what they were going to be talking about.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t particularly care one way or the other,\u201d Olivia replied matter of factly, and then sighed as though the whole matter was becoming boring, \u201cPeggy\u2019s been rejected by people throughout her life, I didn\u2019t want her to feel we had rejected her as well. Apart from which I wanted to be close by Adam, we were going to have a meal at Del Monico\u2019s after the meeting had ended.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester sighed now, and leaned back into the chair, Beneath the plaster encasing her leg she could feel countless itches that she couldn’t reach to scratch away. The thought that this was almost all she had to worry about made her feel guilty again. \u201cI didn\u2019t realise. I\u2019m so sorry -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook, Hester,\u201d Olivia leaned forwards almost as though she could see her sister-in-law sitting opposite her \u201cLet\u2019s agree on this one thing. No more apologies. No more heart wringing and regrets. It won\u2019t change anything, will it?\u201d again the fleeting smile, and Hester felt admonished and turned her head to stare out of the window.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

After some moments of silence she said \u201cIt looks such a lovely day outside. Blue skies and those puffy white clouds that always look like cats or dogs, or balloons -\u201d she paused \u201cI can see Mrs Carstairs – she\u2019s going into the Emporium; such a busy lady. There\u2019s Widow Hawkins stopping to talk to Mrs Garston, oh, they seem to be disagreeing about something – lots of arm waving and how funny they look watching them from this angle. I had never realised what fun it was to observe what we normally see from a different perspective, and how squashed up everyone looks from here\u2026.looking down on them \u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was about to continue, turned to smile over at Olivia (who had said she could hear Hester’s smiles in her voice) when she came to a rather abrupt stop; her eyes widened in amazement and after a seconds silence Olivia said \u201cGo on, Hester\u2026.what do you see?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see two children here who should be at school\u2026\u201d Hester replied in a stunned voice and looked anxiously over at the door, then at the clock before she grabbed at Reuben\u2019s arm and pulled him closer to her \u201cWhat on earth are you two doing here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia began to snivel. She had been quiet because she was scared. She had been shocked at seeing her mother and aunt swathed in bandages, Hester plastered up from the foot to the knee, and Mother with black silk thread woven on to her face like creeping spiders and of course, the bandage over Olivia\u2019s eyes. Reuben had similarly been stunned into silence, now that he had arrived with his sister in tow, he was at a loss as to what to say or do. Olivia\u2019s good hand reached out towards them,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReuben? Sofia?\u201d and then she felt Sofia\u2019s face, the damp on her cheeks, and when Sofia put her hand into her mother\u2019s Olivia began to cry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Mom, Mom, don\u2019t cry, please don\u2019t cry.\u201d Reuben whispered and hurried towards her, threw his arms around her shoulders while Sofia attempted to do the same, so that there was a tangle of arms<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStep back now, let me breathe -\u201d Olivia said with a wobble in her voice and a break in her words. \u201cOh my goodness, Reuben, Sofia\u2026what are you doing here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa said they wouldn\u2019t let us in to see you -\u201d Reuben started followed by Sofia who whispered \u201cI wanted to see you, Mommy, my head hurt so much thinking about you and missing you and I needed you with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHush now. \u201c Olivia put a finger to her lips and drew in a deep breath, she could feel their fingers gently gripping at hers, and then Sofia\u2019s hand grabbing at her arm, there was the niggle of pain from her ribs caused by the children’s rush to hug and hold her, she took in a deep breath and gripped hold of that hand as tightly as she could while she struggled to regain her composure.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She couldn’t see them. what were they looking like? Were they scared? Repulsed? Were they wishing now that they had not come to see this strange bundled up woman swathed in bandages? She could smell the heat of their bodies, their sweat, their emotions.. It was in their skin, in their tears…and she reached out with her bandaged hand to touch Sofia’s hair, and frowned, it didn’t feel it’s usual soft silkiness but heavier and lank.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“How did you get here? How did you get pass the nurses?” she lowered her voice, almost a whisper and when they leaned towards her to whisper how they had managed to get in she could smell their breath,and feel it warm to her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled, nodded, and Hester did likewise while she watched the three of them, the children standing as close as they dared, and Olivia – ah, the sadness in her and the pride in the children as well. But this wouldn’t do, and she watched as Olivia straightened herself up and steeled herself for what she would have had to say…<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow listen to me, my darlings, you know you shouldn\u2019t be here, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut, Mommy -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa said -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s enough now.\u201d she raised a hand for silence again, \u201cYou shouldn\u2019t be here, although -\u201d she paused, unable to put into words how she felt now, to be too grateful for having had a brief chance of seeing them was condoning their breaking of the rules, the disobedience to discipline that was imposed on them by the Hospital. At the same time she wanted them to know how loved they were, how glad she was that they were there, she took hold of a hand, Reuben\u2019s, and held it between her own, \u201cI can’t tell you how proud I am of you both, I wish I could see you but …perhaps next time…but just now, Look, both of you, you must go now. If the nurse or Doctor were to see you here then -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She paused, what would happen, what could she say? Then they would tell their father? Did that imply that she wouldn\u2019t? That she would pretend this had never happened and keep it secret from Adam? She gripped Reuben\u2019s hand more tightly,and forced her rather trembling voice to become far sterner,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow then, both of you, leave right now. Get back to school this instant. Do you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia didn\u2019t, she shook her head, blinked tears from her eyes and her lips wobbled, she leaned in against Olivia unaware of the pain she was causing, \u201cMommy, can\u2019t I stay? Per-lease?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, you can\u2019t. Hospitals have strict rules, and they are not there to be broken by disobedient children.\u201d she tried to be stern, but oh she was so happy at knowing they had come, she leaned forward \u201cKiss me quickly now, and then go -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Kisses on the cheek, Sofia whispered that she would kiss her better if she could and when Mommy came home that would be what she would do\u2026 Reuben held Olivia\u2019s hand, leaned forward \u201cI love you, Mom. I was so scared -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s alright, Reuben, there\u2019s nothing to be scared about – I\u2019ll see you soon, and everything will be just like always.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She squeezed his hands, realised as she did so that it was no longer the hand of a little boy, and as a result was reminded that he was growing up, he did his chores, he helped around the ranch, he had already lost that soft pudginess of childhood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A voice from across the way from another patient positioned close to the door called out \u2019Nurse on the way\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Another voice \u201cHide – under the beds – quick.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So they scooted beneath the beds, cowering there and looking at the two pairs of feet and the legs that strode past them. They held one another’s hands tightly as from under the fringe of the bed coverings they watched the legs pass from one bed to another, pausing a moment at each, murmuring a few words before moving on, and for what seemed oh so long they cringed there, holding hands, feeling sick, aware of their hearts fluttering in their throats.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAll clear.\u201d the voice coming from nearest the door called out.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

On their hands and knees they crawled out from under the bed and after casting a last fleeting look at their Mother and Aunt they scampered from the ward, carefully closed the door behind them and after checking to make sure the way was clear, made their descent down the stairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The woman who had provided them with their \u2018cover\u2019 on entry, was just stepping from the elevator into the foyer as they emerged at the bottom of the stairs. She looked at them and smiled, a beam of recognition on her face \u201cWell now, did you find your Pa?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Ma\u2019am.\u201d Reuben shook his head, \u201cI don\u2019t think he\u2019s coming -\u201d he accepted some candy from the almost empty bag she offered to them \u201cbut we have to get back to school now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNever mind, I\u2019m sure he\u2019ll be pleased to know you cared enough to wait for him.\u201d she patted Sofia on the head, \u201cMy daughter is much better now -\u201d and chattering on she led the way out of the building and down the steps to the sidewalk where they parted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia looked at Reuben, \u201cI don\u2019t want to go back to school, I feel sick.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take you to Bridie\u2019s\u2026.don\u2019t you go telling her where we\u2019ve been.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I won\u2019t.\u201d Sofia said and swallowed down a tear \u201cI\u2019m sad, Reuben, Mommy didn\u2019t look like Mommy, did she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben made no comment but grabbed her hand and hurried away before anyone could come along and see them there. By the time they reached Bridie Martins home Sofia was bawling loudly, rubbing at her face and looking as though she had caught the fever that their friendly escort\u2019s daughter had been suffering.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The bell for the end of recess was ringing when Reuben ran through the school gates. His stomach rumbled to remind him he had not eaten anything, and when Mr Evans asked him how his sister was he answered as best he could that Sofia was \u2018not herself, sir, she looked pretty sick\u2019 when he had left her.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

On the ward there was a little buzz of excitement and hilarity for a little while. The women chattered as though they had been friends since forever, the tension of being there, battered and bruised though they were, seemed lessened by the arrival of the two children and the parts they had played in the adventure.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Within the darkness behind the bandages Olivia thought of her two children, of their determination to see her, regardless of consequences. It warmed her heart, she knew she would cherish that moment forever.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 69<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie was naturally anxious at the way Sofia was clinging to her, crying as though her heart were broken, and quite incoherent. The wail of \u2018I want Mommy\u2019 were the only words of which the poor woman was able to make any sense. She held Sofia in her arms and on her lap, soothing her gently by rocking back and forth, and whispering what she thought would be comforting words to the child. It took a while but finally Sofia stopped the sobbing, hic-cupped a lot, before becoming quiet. For some moments Bridie rocked on, stroking the soft silken hair, whispering endearments and reassuring her that her mother would soon be well, soon be home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was Tilly who noticed that Sofia had fallen asleep as so often happens when children cry themselves to exhaustion. Very gently she was settled down onto the day bed, a quilt pulled over her to keep her warm, and then the two women almost tip toed out of the room, closing the door behind them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThis whole affair has taken quite a toll on the child.\u201d Bridie said quietly and Tilly nodded, \u201cShe has got herself quite feverish with all that hysteria.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI suppose she has always been very close to her mother .\u201d Tilly observed as they strolled into the kitchen area of the house and Bridie nodded, recalling what it had been like in San Francisco in the big house there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSofia\u2019s father died before she was born. There has only ever been Olivia in her life, oh, and an elderly grandmother of course – three years is a good amount of time to bond isn\u2019t it?\u201d Bridie murmured, rather absent mindedly nibbling at some cake that remained on the plate from earlier that morning.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut she loves Adam Cartwright -\u201d Tilly observed plunging her arms in to the hot water in order to wash up the dishes and frowning at Bridie for eating the cake she had had her eye on since bringing it from the dining room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDevoted to him.\u201d Bridie agreed, \u201cBut Sofia is an over imaginative little girl, and I suppose she has spent so long now without seeing Olivia that she is imagining all manner of things from the snippets of information she has overheard.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She dabbed at the plate with her finger, collecting up the last crumbs of the cake and transferring them to her mouth. Tilly grabbed the now empty plate and added it to the pile in the sink. The clock struck the hour and Bridie nodded as though to herself, \u201cLook, Tilly, I think I shall go and visit Olivia and Hester. I know visiting hours start from now, and Adam and Hoss won\u2019t be there until this evening. Don\u2019t forget, they\u2019ll be here for their meal before going on to the hospital. Knowing them they will be here sooner because Adam will want to see the children.\u201d her shoulders sagged and the corners of her mouth drooped \u201cOh dear, I don\u2019t know what he\u2019ll think when he sees Sofia so poorly.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tilly said nothing, she didn\u2019t really know what exactly she was expected to say anyway, but watched while washing up the dishes as Bridie removed her apron and tossed it over the back of a chair before leaving the room. Moments later the door closed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia slept on, thankfully in too deep a sleep to be disturbed by dreams, or the opening and closing of doors. The flush of fever rouged her cheeks, and here and there little beads of perspiration seeped through the pores of her freckled skin to dew her upper lip and around her hair line. She stirred, put her thumb in her mouth \u2026and slept on.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie was not the slim willowy kind of person who seemed to glide from place to place, no matter how much she would have wished she were\u2026a woman of her build would never know how to glide, but she could move quickly when she needed to, which gave people the impression she was a bit pushy, an organiser, efficient and capable.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t always feel like that – if she were asked she would say that she rose to meet people\u2019s expectations of her while at the same time her heart was beating \u201cten to the dozen\u201d and her brain was in panic. But she bustled her way through town and to the hospital where she asked the receptionist how to get to the ward she needed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was hurrying towards the elevator when someone came running up behind her, someone who was obviously slim and willowy and could run as well as glide\u2026Peggy stepped into the elevator just as Bridie reached it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Peggy, this is nice to see you here. I presume you are visiting Olivia and Hester?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI am.\u201d Peggy nodded and looked down at the bunch of flowers in her hand, \u201cI thought it was about time I came to see them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie nodded, feeling rather prim, feeling like she would dearly love to say a few things to this young woman but feeling awkward in even thinking so. She was angry with Peggy, in which case she was not alone, but she was also wise enough to know the girl was very na\u00efve. To Bridie\u2019s mind, a girl like Peggy who spent so much time with dead bodies, digging them up and then prying into their personal details even if they went back hundreds, thousands, of years, someone like Peggy would be rather out of touch with how real people felt about things. As a result she would equally be out of touch with how people often reacted to new thoughts, new ways, especially if those thoughts and ways were just – kind of – tipped over into their laps without anyone warning them beforehand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

People, in Bridie\u2019s opinion, needed to be spoon fed new ideas and then left to think about them. If they didn\u2019t bother to think about them they would obviously be left behind in ignorance, but if they did think about them they could well be carried along when the change came\u2026or not.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave you been to see Olivia and Hester earlier?\u201d Peggy asked finding the silence becoming embarrassing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I thought it best for Adam and Hoss to spend as much time as possible with them. This is the first chance I\u2019ve had -\u201d Bridie frowned, she wished hospitals were more flexible with visiting after all people didn\u2019t die to order. Nor did they improve or worsen according to a clock on the wall. She looked at Peggy who was staring now at the notice on the wall, yet obviously not reading it from the blank expression on her face.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you, Peggy? How do you feel?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy flushed, looked down, and then shook her head. \u201cI feel pretty wretched to be honest, Mrs Martin.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can well imagine that you would, my dear.\u201d Bridie patted the younger woman’s hand in a motherly manner, \u201cWhat do you think you\u2019ll do?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve decided to leave here, I can\u2019t stay where – \u201c she broke off from any further speech as the elevator shuddered to a stop, the doors opened with a creak, and they stepped out into the waiting room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Visiting time had just begun, the doors had been opened and several men were moving into the ward obviously to visit their wives or daughters. Peggy heaved in a deep breath and looked at Bridie \u201cI\u2019m feeling really nervous about going in\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon;\u2019t worry, dearie, just step forward and keep going as if you hadn\u2019t a care in the world\u2026or if you did, then you\u2019ll face it regardless.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy didn\u2019t really know what Bridie meant but she took a deep breath and keeping as close to the other woman as possible stepped out through the doors into the ward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was a slight frisson of tension, voices lowered as she entered, she could feel eyes following her as she made the way to where Olivia and Hester were seated. It was Hester who called out to them, resulting in the tension fading away, and the soft murmur of voices recommenced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester\u2019s smile was warm and welcoming, in some ways it was like balm to Peggy\u2019s nerves. Bridie leaned forward to kiss Hester on the cheek and then said \u201cOlivia, it\u2019s Bridie\u2026\u201d and Olivia smiled and nodded, and accepted the kiss on the cheek \u201cAnd Peggy is here to see you as well\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie\u2019s voice carried a slight edge to it, as though giving the other woman a warning, preparing her for whatever was to come, whether it would be trouble of some kind or not. Olivia nodded, smiled and looked in the direction of the voice, assuming that Peggy would be standing close to Bridie.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester had already taken hold of Peggy by the hand and given her a gentle warm squeeze, and a smile. Now Olivia stretched out her arm, and touched Peggy’s hand, for the younger woman had extended her arm to reach out to her injured friend.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPeggy, how good of you to come.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy sat down on the chair provided and held tightly to Olivia\u2019s hand, she looked from one to the other of the two women and then glanced at Bridie who began to chatter on, about this, that and nothing in particular, asking questions the answers to which she supplied herself. All the time Olivia held Peggy tightly by the hand, feeling its warmth within her own. When Bridie began to feel that she was running out of words as well as breath and there was silence, Hester leaned forward to touch Peggy by the shoulder<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t think any of this is your fault, Peggy, no matter what anyone says\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, Peggy, don\u2019t take to blaming yourself – \u201c Olivia smiled, and behind the bandages she wondered what the girl was looking like – angry, perhaps? Irritated that anyone could even consider blaming her? Or miserable and sad, feeling guilty at the injuries incurred.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen do they take the bandages off, Olivia?\u201d Peggy said in a very low voice<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI heard the Doctor say tomorrow morning, it was going to be a week, but they decided to do it sooner, just to see how – how much progress it has made\u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are your plans now, Peggy? Will you stay in Virginia City?\u201d Hester asked seeing that Olivia\u2018s comment had brought about a rather gloomy silence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy shook her head, \u201cNo, I will be leaving. I have to go to Cairo, there is a new project there that Maurice will be involved in . He wants me to join him there\u2026\u201d she blushed a little \u201cHe asked me to marry him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

All three of the ladies there nodded, smiled, exclaimed that that was good news. Then Hester asked her if she were going to accept the proposal and Peggy released her breath and rolled her eyes and shook her head<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know. I wrote a horrible letter to him refusing to accept but – upon reflection – perhaps it would be the best thing, after all we do get on very well and we have a shared interest in common.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie shook her head and frowned and Hester looked doubtful, even a trifle anxious.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt will take more than that, dear, if you want to make a success of your marriage.\u201d Bridie said succinctly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t marry him unless you love him, Peggy.\u201d Hester said gently, \u201cBetter a happy spinster than a miserable wife\u2026.\u201d she smiled \u201cwhat about your cause for the suffrage movement? Are you going to abandon that?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, but for the time being I shall set it aside – I mean – I suppose I will be more like Mary Ann, watch and wait for the right time to get more involved. Does that make sense?\u201d she glanced at the three of them, wide eyed, pale cheeked, hopeful ..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerfect sense.\u201d Hester said, \u201cI think it will be a long time before women get full equal rights with men. In the meantime a sensible woman can make a good life with what she has, not just a good life, but a life with meaning, purpose and joy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy sighed, she wondered if one of them would trot out the old adage that happiness in marriage comes along with the children, and inwardly shuddered. Olivia squeezed her hand \u201cI think you\u2019re doing a very wise thing, Peggy. But don\u2019t marry anyone unless you really love him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy gave a slight twist to the lips in a parody of a smile \u201cI don\u2019t trust love – in any form -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester nodded \u201cQuite understandable,\u201d she said thinking about Peggy\u2019s experience with Frank and Laura, which, she felt, must have given the girl a jaded view on love<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust be sure -\u201d Olivia said quietly, \u201cMake sure that you love him, and that he loves you enough if not more, to be worthy of you. You have such wonderful qualities, Peggy, don\u2019t waste them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy blushed, swallowed as though she had just ingested a huge pill, and leaned forward to kiss Olivia on the cheek. \u201cI\u2019m so sorry, Olivia -\u201d she whispered \u201cFor everything\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Before anyone could say another word she got to her feet and hurried out of the ward. They could hear the heels of her shoes clattering upon the floor and the creak of the elevator door as it opened.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen do you think she will be leaving?\u201d Hester asked no one in particular and it was Bridie who answered \u201cI have a feeling it will be sooner than any of us think -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

…………….<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy left the hospital feeling somewhat relieved that she had finally seen Olivia and Hester, but despite that she felt very downcast of spirit. She made her way to the Internationale restaurant and took a solitary table, requesting a pot of coffee and a single cup and saucer. She sat by the window and looked out to watch the comings and goings of the townspeople although in all honesty there was no real interest in any one of them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The past weeks had not turned out as she had hoped nor as she liked. She cast her mind back to when she had been asked to complete the assignment regarding the Spanish Conquistadors by the Smithson; the excitement she had felt when realising she would be able to return to her home town, to see her father\u2019s ranch, to see Adam\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could feel the emotion welling up inside her at the latter thought, and the arrival of the coffee as the waiter brought it to her table was a welcome distraction. She gave him a brief smile and then stared at the coffee pot as though she didn\u2019t really know what to do with it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMay I join you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She glanced up and nodded as Abel Greigson stood just feet away from her. He smiled, beckoned to the waiter for another cup, and took a chair opposite her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI couldn\u2019t resist -\u201d he said quietly, leaning rather conspiratorially over at her. \u201cYou looked so alone that I thought for sure you would need cheering up.\u201d he nodded his thanks to the waiter and then remained silent while she filled the two cups.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She glanced up at him as he smiled, raised the cup to his lips. No doubt about it, he was a handsome young man, serious too. In some ways she reminded him of Adam, that same intensity, the way he seemed so in command of himself, his body under control and not one she could imagine ever running to fat. She sighed and when she did so he glanced up,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong, Peggy? You\u2019re not letting what happened on Saturday get too much for you, are you? It would be a shame to let that one incident -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt isn\u2019t that one incident,\u201d she replied rather more sharply than necessary, and perhaps proving by doing so that yes, it did matter, it had somewhat discombobulated her altogether.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen what else?\u201d he had swallowed down the hot coffee within three gulps, and so now she poured him another cupful noticing that when she put the pot down and looked at him there was the slightest of smiles on his lips.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDo you think it funny then?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNot at all.\u201d he picked up the cup to hide his mouth and swallowed<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThen why are you laughing at me?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not laughing at you, Peggy.\u201d he sighed and put the cup down, \u201cI\u2019m sorry, I was just thinking what a shame for such a pretty young girl like yourself, to miss out on an opportunity for a ride out to the Box G on such a lovely day as this – if I smiled it was because I anticipated your reply.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, did you? And what was my reply?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cA very tart no thank you\u2026\u201d he replied and looked up, stared into her eyes and raised his eyebrows.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shivered, she could almost imagine Adam Cartwright having done just the same thing – and so she lowered her eyes and picked up her cup and sipped it. Then she put it down, and looked at him thoughtfully, then shook her head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, at least you said it very pleasantly.\u201d he replied with a grimace, \u201cWhy not? It\u2019s a glorious day. I could take you to your favourite place\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shook her head \u201cNo, thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He leaned back in his chair and frowned, his face falling into sombre lines now, and his expression one of puzzlement \u201cYou\u2019re not the only one with problems, you know, Miss Dayton.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m very well aware of that, thank you.\u201d and a picture of Olivia with her bound eyes and Hester with the plaster cast on her leg flashed through her mind. She shivered, and bowed her head, \u201cI know that, Mr Greigson, I know everyone has problems.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI just wanted to help you with yours, that\u2019s all\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you.\u201d she swallowed more coffee and then set the cup down, \u201cI do appreciate it, but – a ride out to the Box G wouldn\u2019t actually help just now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you sure?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPositive.\u201d she nodded in confirmation.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The last thing she wanted just now was to be reminded of what she had lost. Happy memories were not enough now, those memories were tainted by misery, by loss, by pain. Wallowing in self pity as she was, she could have added the words betrayal, and deceit. No, whenever she thought of the Box G, which had once been her home, had in fact been her birth place, she felt no longing to return to it again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel finished his second cup of coffee and reached for his hat, he stood up \u201cI wish I could help you, Peggy. I wish I knew what I could do to bring the smile back to your face.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wish you did too\u2026\u201d she did smile then, one of polite courtesy nothing more. \u201cThank you for sharing this time with me, it was thoughtful of you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel just nodded his head, and without another word turned to leave. She watched him as he reached the door, paused and looked back at her, a frown and then another nod of the head, and then he was gone, replacing his hat upon his head and disappearing into the crowd outside .<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She sighed, and stared down at her cup. She poured more coffee into it and watched the brown liquid swirl round and round. A bit like her life really, she thought. Just going round and round, equally as muddy, equally as miserable.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel Greigson stood on the sidewalk and glanced up and down before returning to his tasks. He thought of the solitary woman sitting at the table with her cup of coffee and wondered what made her feel she had priority over misery. He felt a wave of despondency sweep over him for he was not the epitome of mirth, he was in fact, feeling far from happy himself. The letter from Elizabeth Godfrey still weighed heavily upon him, the memory of her, the feel of her as he had danced with her in his arms, he couldn\u2019t shake any of that from his mind.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He forced himself to the Mail Depot and pushed open the door, waited his turn to be served by Eddy, who recognised him with a grin \u201cSome letters for you, Mr Greigson. How\u2019s your father nowadays?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cStill alive,\u201d Abel said through gritted teeth and took the letters, turned and left.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There were not many letters, they didn\u2019t really receive much mail\u2026just the usual bills or invoices, or promotional stuff about cattle, or hardware. He sighed and sifted through them then put them into his pocket. The letter he had hoped for was not among them. He was going to have to accept the fact that Elizabeth Godfrey no longer gave him a thought.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 70<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie returned to her home and pushed open the door with some thing like a heavy weight on her heart.\u00a0 It had been depressing to see Olivia and Hester as they were, it had hit her hard upon seeing the reality of their injuries, \u00a0and she now wished she had not gone. \u00a0 Thank goodness, she thought to herself, as she removed her bonnet and slipped it onto the peg, thank goodness the hospital didn\u2019t allow children onto the wards.\u00a0 What would the children have thought to have seen Olivia and their Aunt looking so – so woebegone. \u00a0 \u00a0Sofia would have been worried sick at the sight of those stitches.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She bustled into the parlour and looked at the child sleeping on the settee with the quilt around her. \u00a0 Sofia was flushed, her cheeks red and perspiration beading her brow.\u00a0 Her hair looked lank, heavy with the clamminess of fever. \u00a0 Bridie touched the child\u2019s brow and nodded –<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, No, No\u201d Sofia cried and struggled to fight Bridie away even though she was still deep in sleep \u201cNo spiders \u00a0– no spiders -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHush now, hush little one, there are no spiders here to hurt you.\u201d Bridie whispered and stroked back the hair that was damp and sticky, clamped to the childs brow, \u201cIt\u2019s alright, you\u2019re here with Bridie now\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh \u00a0no\u2026no\u2026\u201d Sofia whispered and sighed deeply, then her eyes fluttered open and she looked up at Bridie \u201cNo spiders, Bridie?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNone at all.\u00a0 What made you think there were any that would hurt you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI dreamed they were eating up my Mommy\u2019s face\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie gulped, not a pleasant image to conjure up she thought and soothed another strand of hair from Sofia\u2019s cheek, \u201cLook, Sofia, it was only a dream\u2026dreams aren\u2019t real. \u00a0 When you see your Mommy she\u2019ll be just fine, you\u2019ll see, you\u2019ll see.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia opened her mouth, but instinct warned her to say nothing, \u00a0she closed it again. \u00a0\u201cI feel hot.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a temperature.\u00a0 A slight fever, that\u2019s all. \u00a0 \u00a0I suppose it\u2019s because you\u2019re worried so much about what happened \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs Daddy here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe will be shortly, with Uncle Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia nodded, her eyes felt heavy she wanted to sleep a little more\u2026with a slight sigh she drifted back to sleep.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The waiter approached the table and coughed politely<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs there anything else I can get for you, Miss?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy looked over at the clock. \u00a0 She realised she was hungry, her stomach rumbled.\u00a0 She ordered some sandwiches and a slice of cake. \u00a0 The clock ticked away the minutes and she knew that her life was ticking along with it. \u00a0 No one could control time.\u00a0 No one could turn the clock back.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She had wanted everything to have been perfect on this visit, \u00a0welcome arms, happy smiles, love floating out to meet her from everyone she met. \u00a0 Even though she had thought it she knew it could never \u00a0happen, people were people she had reminded herself, but even so\u2026even so\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She remembered what Adam had said about Laura, and even Olivia had sympathised with the woman. \u00a0 Peggy felt a stir of some emotion which she couldn\u2019t quite name as it wriggled about in her stomach, her heart, her brain. \u00a0 Laura – Adam had told her to consider the fact that Laura had been a child herself when she, Peggy, had been born.\u00a0 Olivia had urged her to remember how alone Laura would have been feeling, how desperate for Peggy\u2019s love and understanding\u2026.but how could a child know what to give to the adult that held back so much from giving herself.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It seemed to Peggy that Laura had learned to love only when Adam Cartwright had come into their lives. \u00a0 \u00a0And even that she had betrayed\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnother pot of coffee, please.\u201d \u00a0she told the waiter when he put the plates and cutlery upon the table.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She couldn\u2019t and wouldn\u2019t stay here. \u00a0 She drew in a deep breath and looked around her. \u00a0 Some familiar faces were seated at various tables.\u00a0 Miss Tyndale, the librarian, shared a table with another woman, Peggy remembered her, Miss Abigail Jones\u2026the school teacher.\u00a0 But then she reminded herself that Miss Jones had married, \u00a0one of the Ponderosa\u2019s ranch hands. \u00a0 It seemed no matter where she looked reminders of the Ponderosa appeared.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grant Tombs passed her table and nodded to her with a smile, then passed on to sit at a table where a young woman was already seated. \u00a0 Peggy raised her eyebrows and watched as he took his seat, \u00a0and the smile that the girl gave him indicated quite clearly that at least one of them had been struck b y cupid\u2019s bow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Widow Hawkins caught her eye and nodded, smiled, then continued with her conversation with another woman, \u00a0there was an elderly gentleman with them whom Peggy didn\u2019t know. \u00a0 The other woman with Clementine was obviously married to the man, for she touched his arm, his hand, little gestures of familiarity borne from a long and happy marriage.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She ate some of the sandwiches, a little of the cake, emptied the coffee pot. \u00a0 Then she got up to leave, knowing that she would not be sorry if she never saw anyone of them again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Eddy smiled over at her as she pushed open the doors to the Mail Depot. \u00a0\u201cMiss Dayton isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She nodded, she could remember going to school with Eddy all those years ago. \u00a0 She sighed and took the letters from him, and thanked him, then left.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She recognised Maurice\u2019s handwriting and that of Rachel\u2019s as well.\u00a0 She was surprised that Rachels letter came without the coat of arms stamped on the red wax seal, just a plain envelope addressed to good old plain Margaret Dayton. \u00a0 She sighed and looked around her, wondering where she could go to read her letters in privacy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was a bench just outside the Ladies Emporium and so she sat down to read her letters there.\u00a0 The sun shone down on her face, and she had to blink and scrunch up her eyes to read the black writing on the very white paper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

My dearest Peggy,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I have not yet received an answer to my letter, \u00a0and accept the fact that a proposal is not romantic when just written down as I had written down mine.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sentiments were real, sincere\u2026.I love you, my darling funny girl, I love you so much.\u00a0 I would wish that you were here right now for me to take into my arms and kiss your face and tell you over and over how much I love you.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

See – your absence as turned me away from being a proper Englishman, who would have thought I would write down such feelings but how could I not, how could I resist letting you know once again how much I love you, miss you, want you \u00a0here with me.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Wherever you are, you have my heart in your hands,<\/p>\n

Remember that<\/p>\n

Maurice.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She read it twice over before slipping it into her purse, then she opened Rachel\u2019s letter<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDear Peggy,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Just to let \u00a0you know that we miss you. \u00a0 Laurence says I can accompany you and Maurice on the next jaunt you have to go on. \u00a0 Only for a few weeks though.\u00a0 Please hurry back home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

To tell you the truth, my dear Peggy, if you do not return soon, I think Maurice will vanish before our eyes.\u00a0 He has pined away for you like my old dog, Pingu, did when I was a little girl. \u00a0 You have to return before he becomes really ill\u2026.an Englishman in love is not a pretty sight, dear.\u00a0 Stiff upper lip and all that rot\u2026not likely!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He loves you so much ,dear, and so do we \u2026but not quite as much which is obvious to all as I am as fat as ever.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Love to you,<\/p>\n

Rachel<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

P.s. when you see Adam again\u2026tell him that we think often of him and our adventures way back when\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy folded that letter up as well, and slipped it into her purse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She was loved\u2026.just that thought alone was enough to soothe her troubled heart and conscience.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was as Adam and Hoss dismounted outside the Martins house that Roy raised a hand and called out a hallooo to draw their attention to him. \u00a0 Hoss nudged Adam and nodded over as the old ex-lawman made his way towards them,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow ya doing, \u00a0Adam? Hoss?\u201d \u00a0he blinked rapidly behind his spectacles , bleary with smudges as ever.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFine, thanks, Roy\u201d Adam nodded while Hoss grinned and glanced over Roy;s shoulder, for the first time in weeks Roy was without his shadow<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou boys got a moment.\u00a0 I\u2019d like a word if I may -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam \u00a0raised his eyebrows while this time Hoss nodded, they crowded in slightly closer to Roy and Hoss removed his hat. \u00a0 Roy sucked at his teeth for a moment as though contemplating whether or not this was the ideal place but then decided as the other two were not prepared to move elsewhere he had better speak up.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI heard some details about the situation regarding your wives.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGood, what are they?\u201d Adam asked and Hoss grunted \u201cSpit it out, Roy, before it chokes you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSeems Hester went down first, that\u2019s right – ain\u2019t it?\u201d \u00a0 he glanced at them both, \u00a0and they nodded \u201cWell, the crowd was \u00a0hemming in on her, like as not that\u2019s what \u00a0made Olivia move to protect her, shielding her body with her own. \u00a0 But as she went down the fighting really got under way – things were thrown -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cTell us something we don\u2019t already know, Roy\u201d Adam hissed between clenched teeth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know – and perhaps we\u2019ll never find out – who it was threw the first missile, but I got \u00a0a report that several were thrown, not at Olivia, but at the platform \u00a0and as they glanced off the \u00a0wood en \u00a0uprights supporting the platform, they landed on Olivia..and Hester too, to some degree.\u201d \u00a0Roy nodded as though confirming what he had said in his own mind as accurate. \u00a0\u201cHad they been thrown at your ladies, \u00a0with the full power of the arm behind them \u00a0I reckon on their injuries being much worse.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs this supposed to cheer \u00a0us \u00a0up, Roy?\u201d Hoss grumbled and scowled, \u00a0his face screwed up in frustration.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, \u00a0I doubt it will. \u00a0 Point is that there was no malice behind whoever threw those rocks and so forth, \u00a0no personal malice that is\u2026now the \u00a0worse of it was \u00a0that someone stepped on Olivia\u2019s hand -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, she remembers it, she thought it was a woman -\u201d Adam said quietly<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a woman, \u00a0someone who \u00a0was trying to get away without being more involved and thought she had a safe passage \u00a0by the platform, \u00a0unfortunately the crowd pushed her back, she stepped on Olivia\u2019s hand, stumbled in an attempt to avoid hurting her and fell upon her instead\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Olivia remembers most of that pretty clear.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, \u00a0it was nothing personal, nothing intended or deliberate -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, Roy, we get the point, it was an accident, so we don\u2019t go gunning for anyone, is that right?\u201d Adam narrowed his eyes, and glared at the old man who nodded, tugged at his moustache and raised his bushy old eyebrows<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNow, look here, Adam my boy, \u00a0accidents happen. \u00a0 In situations like that fiasco the other day, they were bound to happen. \u00a0 We could go down the route of saying if Hester hadn\u2019t fallen, if Olivia hadn\u2019t tried to protect her, if \u00a0Miss Tyndale hadn\u2019t been trying to get out of the way , then nothing untoward would have happened – would it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and if Hester and Olivia hadn\u2019t gone it wouldn\u2019t either -\u201d Hoss grunted and sniffed, wrinkling up his nose in the process.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cExactly my point, \u00a0just how far do we have to go before we can find someone we can place some blame on jest so you boys can feel less annoyed and frustrated by it all.\u201d Roy scowled at them both then shook his head, \u201cAnyway, \u00a0that\u2019s what I come to tell ya. \u00a0 Miss Tyndale came to me sobbing and bawling she did, \u00a0said she never meant no harm jest \u00a0being there and then all – ahem – broke loose.\u00a0 She jest wanted to get away, that\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Tyndale huh?\u201d Adam looked at Roy and then looked at Hoss \u201cMiss Tyndale\u2026!\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, Miss Tyndale\u2026\u201d Roy nodded \u201cAnd she\u2019s a good woman, \u00a0Adam. Hoss. \u00a0 She\u2019s \u00a0a kind woman too. \u00a0 \u00a0Jest wanted me to let you know how sorry she was, \u00a0sent your wives some flowers and a card to apologise, \u00a0ain;t too sure how to approach you two though.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged, folded his arms across his chest and stared down at the ground while Hoss scratched his head and replaced his hat.\u00a0 Roy nodded \u201cWell, that\u2019s it then, I done delivered the news, \u00a0you do with it what you want.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He turned and took a step forward before stopping and turning back to them \u201cAnd don\u2019t either of you go \u00a0bothering that pore lady, d\u2019you hear?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAlright, Roy, calm down. \u00a0 We won\u2019t go shooting \u00a0out her windows or burning the house down.\u201d Adam replied with a rather tight grin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, we know Miss Tyndale wouldn\u2019t hurt a soul, Roy.\u00a0 Jest tell her not to worry none.\u201d Hoss gave Roy a pat on the shoulder and nodded, \u00a0sighed and then turned to wards the Martins house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Roy watched him go and looked at Adam \u201cGuess you boys wanted to know it was some low down out with a grudge huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged now, scratched the side of his nose and pursed his lips before shaking his head \u201cNo, not really.\u201d \u00a0he smiled slowly at Roy and turned to follow his brother to the Martins house \u201cThanks Roy, let Miss Tyndale know apology accepted and for her not to worry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As soon as Hoss and Adam had stepped foot in the house, Bridie approached them, \u00a0gave them both a matronly hug and led them into the parlour. \u00a0\u201cI went to see Hester and Olivia today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow are they?\u201d Hoss asked as Adam paused, indicating that he wondered why Bridie felt it so important to tell them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey had another visitor while I was there – Peggy Dayton.\u201d Bridie looked from one to the other of \u00a0them, \u201cShe made a very pretty apology too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I guess that\u2019s what was expected of her,\u201d Adam murmured although there was a sigh in his voice and Bridie nodded as though catching the drift of what he meant.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s thinking of leaving here. \u00a0 Soon.\u201d \u00a0Bridie looked now at Adam whom she felt had the most responsibility towards the young woman, \u201cThis situation has really knocked the wind out of her sails.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWal, she ain;t alone in that.\u201d Hoss muttered.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid she give any idea as to when she was leaving?\u201d Adam asked now, \u00a0but Bridie shook her head. before she could say another word the door to the parlour opened and Sofia peeked inside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDaddy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned, raised his eyebrows and looked at his daughter in some surprise \u201cHey, Pumpkin, I thought you would still be at school.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI bin sick.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, \u00a0frowned and squatted down a little to her level, he put a hand to her brow and then beneath her \u00a0throat, \u201cOh dear, I see\u2026.and what brought that on?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She clamped her mouth shut, shook her head and raised her arms to him, \u00a0she was slight of build anyway it was no problem picking her up and holding her close \u201cWell, I hope you get better very soon, \u00a0sweetheart, otherwise Ma\u2019s going to be worried about you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d she whispered and wrapped her arms around him, holding onto him tightly, \u201cI want Mommy home, and I want to go home too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam patted her on the back, and nodded \u201cI know, that\u2019s what we all want just now.\u201d he sighed and set her back down on her feet. \u00a0 \u201cNow then, Uncle Hoss and I are going to see your Mommy and Aunt Hester. \u00a0 I\u2019ll let you know how she is when I get \u00a0back.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie bustled up and put a plump hard working hand on Sofias shoulder \u201cI\u2019ll have \u00a0your \u00a0meal ready by then, Adam, Hoss.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both men nodded, turned and picked up their hats which they replaced once they were outside. \u00a0 Widow Hawkins saw them from across the road and hurried over to speak to them, hoping they would convey her sympathies and best wishes before allowing them on their way.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Chapter 71<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The ward was quieter when they entered it.\u00a0 Several beds were now empty and only one other lady had a visitor, by the look of him it would have been her grandson. \u00a0 Hester leaned towards Olivia and must have whispered their arrival to her so that both of them turned to face towards the door of the ward room, both bearing a \u00a0big smile of welcome, for visitors were always a joy to have, especially in such surroundings as a hospital ward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Minutes of small talk between the four of them, confirmation that the children were well, \u00a0Nathaniel missed his Momma, and Erik had another new tooth.\u00a0 Hope and Hannah sent their mother a picture but Hoss had been showing it to Joe and the wind caught it and blew it away. \u00a0\u201cNever mind, \u201c he assured her, \u201cYou\u2019ll \u00a0be getting another one very shortly.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They talked about the work they were doing just then, and how Ben had decided not to \u00a0build barbed wire fences near Papoose Peak after all as Candy had suggested it would be a futile effort and a lot of expense for nothing. \u00a0 Ben didn\u2019t argue the point, as Adam said had it been one of them he would have done, just to make sure they knew he was not surrendering the matter too easily.\u00a0 Candy could obviously do no wrong.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe solution is to bring the cattle down to the low pasture when the bears are out after hibernation \u00a0and with their cubs.\u00a0 They\u2019ll only bring the fence down if they were that determined.\u201d Hoss smiled, looked into Hester\u2019s blue eyes and kissed her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned slightly aside in order to give them some privacy and stroked Olivia\u2019s hand, kissed her finger tips and then kissed her as she had turned her face towards him. \u00a0 She smiled \u201cYou smell of work, \u00a0a good manly smell.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled and realised she couldn\u2019t see that so leaned in to kiss her again, \u00a0she relished the taste of him, and for a \u00a0moment struggled to put her mind to the etiquette of the situation they were in. \u00a0 \u00a0 \u201cWe had a visitor today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI heard \u201c he smiled \u00a0 \u201cPeggy.?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, she was very contrite, very miserable about everything. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBridie says that Peggy \u00a0may be going to leave here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, that\u2019s right.\u201d \u00a0 she gripped hold of his hand now and \u00a0held it tightly between her own, \u201cAdam, I had other visitors too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe doctor? \u00a0\u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo – \u201c \u00a0she paused, and for a moment silence hung in the air between them as she wondered how to tell him about her \u2018little \u2018 visitors.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMarcy?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo – it was – please don\u2019t be angry with them – it was Reuben and Sofia.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReuben and Sofia?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He must have spoken louder than intended for Hoss turned round to \u00a0join the conversation \u201cWhat were they doing here?\u00a0 Jest saw Sofia, she said she was off school sick\u2026never mentioned about coming here.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded, \u00a0\u201cTrue enough.\u00a0 The little Minx never breathed a word.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey were desperate to see us, Adam. \u00a0 You arn’t angry with them, are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam and Hoss exchanged a glance. \u00a0 They both knew that for doing less Ben\u2019s hand would have been very heavy on a certain area of their anatomy. \u00a0 Olivia squeezed Adams hand \u201cRemember your Skakespeare\u2026.\u2019The quality of mercy is twice blessed\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shook his head although he was smiling, \u00a0he leaned in to kiss her again, \u201cThat\u2019s unfair.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d Olivia smiled, a slow smile that Adam knew would have lit up her eyes, \u201cBut it did us all so much good to see them here.\u00a0 All the ladies enjoyed it – it lifted all our spirits so much. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss grinned and shook his head, made some comment about disobedient children, spoil the child and spare the rod etc. \u00a0and Hester told them how much of a surprise it had been to see the two children suddenly appear and how funny it had been when they had hidden under the beds while the nurse and Doctor did their rounds.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cFunny huh?\u201d Adam said \u00a0between gritted teeth.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Adam, \u00a0try and see it from their perspective.\u201d Hester urged, \u201cNothing is so frightening for a child as to be left ignorant of things like this\u2026their imaginations run riot, \u00a0they scare themselves with conjecture and fantasy.\u00a0 Much better for them to know what the truth really is, surely?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAre you playing Devil\u2019s advocate, Hester?\u201d \u00a0Adam asked with a chuckle in his voice and Hoss looked offended and said something about \u2018Don\u2019t you call my wife a devil anything\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam \u00a0raised his hands as though admitting defeat and then turned to Olivia and asked her if the Doctor had any news about her condition, how was her hand, her eyes\u2026anything\u2026to which she replied that they were going to take off the bandages in the morning \u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s to see if there is any progress since Saturday, whether they can assess anything to help them for next week\u2026I mean\u2026later on in the week.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat time?\u201d Adam asked and when she said she hadn\u2019t been told he assured her he would be there, she wouldn\u2019t be facing it alone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They talked some more and then the gong sounded\u2026.visiting time was already over. \u00a0 Kisses and farewells, promises made and smiles exchanged. \u00a0 Olivia slumped back on the pillows and smiled, the smell of a hard working man lingered a while yet and she loved it.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

When Adam had been a child his father had been a stern disciplinarian. \u00a0 At that time it was expected of any father to \u2018control\u2019 their child, to teach them their place, to make sure they never stepped over the line.\u00a0 Ben had been a seaman, he had lived among rough crude men and if there had been no discipline from the officers on board then the ship would be in a constant state of mutiny.\u00a0 So it was taken for granted that Adam Cartwright faced a vigilant and regular disciplining\u2026often with a good tanning, if a tanning could ever be considered good, \u00a0or a stern lecture, and sometimes a loving kindly reproof.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben would have argued that travelling through Indian territory, through vast regions of untamed wilderness, over desert, fording rivers, along with a little boy, required strict discipline.\u00a0 Obedience in the child had to be, at times, beaten into him.\u00a0 The circumstances of their lives, thankfully, led to the fact that Adam Cartwright did not require many beatings,no doubt due to the fact that he lived at least two thirds of it in constant terror of being scalped or burned alive by the savages through whose territory they travelled.\u00a0 But when it came, it was \u00a0just enough to remind him that obedience saved lives, as it did, often.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss had come along, \u00a0and once again bereft of a woman\u2019s hand to guide them, \u00a0Ben was left with another child to discipline and train. \u00a0 All three Cartwrights were eternally grateful when Hop Sing came into their lives, even if it was for three different reasons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Of course, \u00a0when Joe arrived there had been a woman to gently take the reins at times, and to temper strict discipline with loving kindness, good humour, and whether or not that were a bad thing somehow Joe \u00a0managed to respect the discipline he did have and in the main was tolerably obedient. \u00a0 Whether or not Adam and Hoss resented the fact that their sibling had fewer tannings, lectures, scoldings than they themselves had had, \u00a0only they would know and had the wisdom not to mention.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

But his upbringing and the strictness of Ben\u2019s fathering, had a profound effect on Adam. \u00a0 As he left the hospital he was mulling over the fact that once again Reuben had been disobedient, \u00a0and that Sofia had gone along with him. \u00a0 His brief discussion with the Doctor about the procedure regarding Olivia\u2019s eyes was another cause for concern.\u00a0 He walked away from the building like a man carrying the world upon his shoulders and Hoss had the foresight to say nothing but ambled along beside him deep in thoughts of his own.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As the brothers reached the Martins\u2019 home Hoss paused with his hand on the picket gate and observed Adam, then with a slight twist to his body prevented his brother from entering the little garden<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s on your mind, Adam?\u201d \u00a0Hoss asked looking at the anxious face thoughtfully, a slight furrow on his brow \u201cYou ain\u2019t going to be too hard on them kids of your\u2019n, are ya?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, is that any business of yours, Hoss Cartwright?\u201d Adam replied with a slight sneer in the words, \u201cOr don\u2019t you think I know how to discipline my own children?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWal, I was thinking that it was possible \u00a0you could see what they did as being disobedient, and I know you\u2019re a great one for kids toeing the line, so to speak, I recall what \u00a0you were like when I was a kid\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam pulled a face, a grimace of a grin, \u201cNever thrashed you, did I?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou knew better than to try.\u201d Hoss grinned although a threat of a thrashing from his older brother would be enough to reduce him to abject misery and apologies, \u00a0it was more than Adam would have dared to have laid a hand on him knowing that Hoss would have flattened him with one blow in return had he a mind to do so.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLook,\u201d Hoss now said quietly, one hand on his brothers\u2019 chest as though forcing him to restrain himself from rushing into the house to beat the daylights out of the children<\/p>\n

\u201cOlivia and Hester got a lot of pleasure from seeing those children today.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know it\u2026\u201d Adam replied with a sigh and a roll of the eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd those children needed to see their Ma.\u00a0 They needed to know that what they were told was not as bad as what they may lay in bed at nights imagining.\u00a0 Children have very vivid imaginations, Adam, and -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know that as well, Hoss.\u201d Adam replied and pushed the restraining hand away, with a grim look on his face as he made his way to the \u00a0house.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

As if he didn\u2019t know all about the fears and the imaginings of a child\u2026how many nights \u00a0had he lain in a wagon listening for the sounds of wild savages, or animals, who could come creeping around or feared for his Pa who would have to leave him alone in the wagon while he went hunting. \u00a0 \u00a0A night was never so long as the ones when Ben had gone hunting, nor a day so filled with terror as when the wagon was \u00a0standing half concealed yet so visible to enemy eyes with only a little boy inside it, waiting, listening, imagining.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He pushed the door open and stepped into the room , Bridie came up with a smile and nod, \u201cHow were they?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDid Olivia mention to you about seeing the Doctor about her eyes tomorrow?\u201d Adam asked quietly as he set his hat to one side.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I mentioned it to Paul \u00a0Apparently there\u2019s a Consultant from San Francisco Hospital who will be examining her eyes, he wants to check on how much she can see now so that he can notice any difference on Saturday.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss blundered in and put his hat down on the hall table, and Bridie picked it up and set it on the hook designated for hats alongside Adam\u2019s own. \u00a0 The brothers glanced at each other as Hoss passed and went into the other room.\u00a0 Bridie noticed but said nothing, except to assure Adam that Paul had said there was nothing to worry about with regard to the eye examination.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs Reuben here?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie nodded and stepped aside as Adam entered the parlour. \u00a0 Reuben and Sofia were sitting side by side reading a book, or rather Reuben was reading while Sofia watched her brother\u2019s finger going from word to word.\u00a0 Both stopped and looked up as Adam stepped into the room, \u00a0and it seemed as though everyone else just simply disappeared, and their father filled the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded at them both, \u00a0looked at Sofia \u201cFeeling better now, Sofia?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The little girl nodded, her eyes fixed on Adam\u2019s face as she tried to work out whether or not he knew about their visit to the hospital. \u00a0 Reuben bit down on his bottom lip, swallowed the taste of misery, and looked at his father<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWas Ma alright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe was -\u201d Adam paused and took a chair close to them, \u201cYes, she was quite well.\u00a0 She was very happy in fact.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh that\u2019s good -\u201d Sofia cried with a smile that stretched from ear to ear on her face, she looked at Reuben \u201cThat\u2019s good, isn\u2019t it, Reuben?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd will she be coming home soon, Pa?\u201d Reuben managed to ask although his heart was beating fast enough to jump out of his skin<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know when she will be coming \u00a0home.\u00a0 It depends on what happens on Saturday. \u00a0 Aunt Hester will be able to go home though.\u00a0 No doubt the girls will be pleased to see her again.\u201d \u00a0Adam paused \u201cThey\u2019ve been worried about her.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve been worried about Mommy too.\u201d Sofia said with a nod of the head, \u201cAnd Nathaniel will be worried too, won\u2019t he?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe is, \u00a0he misses her, and he misses you both as well.\u201d \u00a0Adam replied and leaned forward, picked up the book to look at the title before setting it back down on the table. \u00a0\u201cHe can\u2019t very well slip into town and visit Mommy after all, can he?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d Sofia whispered and Reuben blinked and shook his head, \u00a0and slowly shrunk back against the settee.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it seems that Mommy and Aunt Hester had some visitors today\u2026\u201d Adam drawled and then pursed his lips and looked at them both.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Both children blinked rapidly like a couple of owls caught unawares, they seemed to move closer, Sofia reached for Reuben\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBridie and Peggy -\u201d Adam said leaning forward, and his brow puckering into a furrow \u201cAnd -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPa, we wanted to see Ma – we wanted to see her so much.\u201d Reuben blurted out, and stood up, went to Adam\u2019s side and leaned against him, \u201cI couldn\u2019t stay in school thinking about her and Aunt Hester being so close by, and not being able to see them. \u00a0 -\u201d \u00a0he bowed his head and stared down at \u00a0his feet, then at his father\u2019s feet, the silence seemed to stretch, \u201cWe- we went to the hospital during recess.\u00a0 Sofia \u00a0and me. Sofia was feeling unwell, and – \u201c he heaved in a deep breath \u201cI guess we were disobedient and =\u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, yes, you were disobedient weren\u2019t you?\u00a0 Not just to me, but to the Hospital Authorities who forbid children visiting for very important health reasons, none of which you would understand, and none of which you considered.\u201d \u00a0 he looked at them both, \u00a0at the big eyes, now filling with tears.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He understood the hospital rules, of course he did, and he had thought he had explained them clearly enough to the children.\u00a0 He understood them, even though he didn\u2019t entirely agree with them.\u00a0 He looked at Sofia who burst into tears and hurried over to him, throwing her arms around his neck and saying sorry sorry until the word became a meaningless jumble.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He pushed them both away from him, gently. \u00a0 Then shook his \u00a0head and raised his eyebrows in the way only he seemed able to do\u2026 \u00a0 \u201cI know, I can understand how you both felt. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He noticed the relief on their faces, the way their bodies relaxed slightly, \u00a0he put an arm around them both, \u00a0and looked at them sternly, the furrow between his eyes deepening, \u201cWhat you did was wrong, you know that, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They nodded \u201cBut we wanted to see Mommy SO much.\u201d Sofia cried, \u201cAnd I thought we could – \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBut you lied to your teacher, you said you were ill, you let Bridie think you were ill as well, Sofia, you worried her a lot.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia wriggled in embarrassment and shame, \u00a0she shook her head and looked down at the rug at her feet \u201cI\u2019m sorry.\u201d \u00a0she looked \u00a0up \u201cBut I was feeling sick, daddy. I kept thinking of Mommy and then I felt so sick, I couldn\u2019t stay in school any more and told Miss Hayward – truly Daddy, I was feeling sick.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben nodded \u201cI was told to bring her home here\u2026.Mr Evans told me to -. \u201c he paused \u201c \u00a0She said she was sick but wanted to see Ma.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I did, Daddy, I did.\u00a0 Then I saw Mommy and it made me feel even more sick, because – because seeing her all bandages all over like she is, it scared me and I got a worry tummy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sighed and looked at Reuben who volunteered the information that he did go back to school after bringing \u00a0his sister to Bridie, and he was glad he saw his Ma because he missed her so much.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam looked from one to the other, his brown eyes lingering on each little face for seconds at a time.\u00a0 Then he nodded and pushed them away from him \u201cVery well. \u00a0 I do understand, and I know that Mommy was really pleased to see you both.\u201d he nearly choked on saying that, what if Mommy would never see them again?\u00a0 He swallowed and heaved in a deep breath \u201cWe\u2019re all worried just now, \u00a0there\u2019s a lot going on, but – please – don\u2019t do it again. \u00a0 Just be good children so that I don\u2019t have to worry about either of you just now\u2026do you understand?\u00a0 Reuben?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Pa, \u00a0I\u2019m sorry, \u00a0I didn\u2019t mean to make you angry -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat doesn\u2019t come into the matter just now, Reuben.\u00a0 I need you to behave, do you realise how important that is just now?\u201d \u00a0he looked at them again, then nodded \u201cReuben, I expect \u00a0you to set a good example to your sister, do you hear?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Pa.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben bit his tongue, he wanted to explain to his father that it was Sofia who had \u00a0the idea on how to see Ma in hospital, it was Sofia who had pushed him into going there. \u00a0 He kept silent however, knowing that his Father wouldn\u2019t appreciate what would be considered telling tales, getting his sister into more trouble when he, the elder of the two, should have prevented it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They gratefully stepped back as Adam stood up, said something about having something to eat, \u00a0and led the way out of the room one hand on Reuben’s shoulder and the other gripping tight hold on Sofia’s little hand as though if he didn’t she would slip away like gossomer wings<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 72<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The bustle of nurses in the ward, the rustle of their starched aprons, the smell that wafted over each patient as they passed by – all ate at Olivia\u2019s nerves as she waited for the time to pass before she was taken down to see the consultant.\u00a0 Each morning when she had woken the urge to remove the bandages from her eyes had been like a battle in her mind, willing her arms and hands to remain at her side instead of reaching up to remove them. \u00a0 The fear of bad news, of a negative result, nibbled away at her already frayed nerves, making her mouth dry and her heart race.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam had assured her that he would be close by, and even with her if the doctor so permitted. \u00a0 \u00a0She wondered what he was thinking, \u00a0whether or not he had arrived yet, was he pacing the floor, was he thinking the worst, \u00a0was he wondering how he would cope with a blind wife?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester had stopped talking, she had worn out her own patience, chattered as much as she could by way of a diversion and then grown silent as nerves attacked her as well. \u00a0 When a nurse arrived pushing a wheelchair she felt a surge of relief, the anxious wait was over at last.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The nurse approached Olivia and put a gentle hand on her arm, \u201cMrs Cartwright, time to take you downstairs. \u00a0 You can lean on my arm while we go over to the wheelchair.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIs my husband here, do you know if he is in \u00a0the waiting room for me?\u201d Olivia asked as she leaned over for the nurse to take her weight and support her to the chair.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI haven\u2019t seen \u00a0him, but he could be downstairs.\u00a0 Here we are now, careful does it\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Feeling \u00a0the edge of the chair seat against her legs Olivia carefully lowered herself down, \u00a0the nurse paused a moment before her patient was settled and then walked to the back whereupon she gripped the handles and began to push the chair forward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia didn\u2019t speak, it was a strange sensation being taken through the ward, hearing the sound of the wheels squishing against the floor, the tap tap of the nurse\u2019s shoes and knowing that she had no control over what was happening to her. \u00a0 There was a pause, a disembodied voice said something over her head to the nurse pushing the chair, she could hear the doors opening and then the nurse was pushing her through them and into the other room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Through a long corridor and then another pause, the metallic ting of the bell as the elevator rose up and stopped at their floor. \u00a0 The doors opened with a clattering and then the nurse pushed her through and said merrily \u201cNearly there.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia felt the plunge as the elevator descended, she screwed her eyes shut even though everything was black around her. \u00a0 Her fingers gripped the arm rest of the wheel chair and she felt the effort \u00a0of keeping calm stretching her nerves to fever pitch.\u00a0 The elevator thudded to a juddering halt, the doors clattered open and the nurse pushed her forward, \u00a0then paused<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Good morning, Mr Cartwright.\u00a0 We were wondering if you would be here.\u201d the nurse said brightly and Olivia felt such a light relief at knowing her husband was there that she could have cried.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t have missed being here, Nurse.\u201d Adam replied, his voice sounding like honey to his wife, and when his fingers took hold of her hand and curled around \u00a0hers she felt tears wetting her eyes. \u00a0 He kissed her fingertips and then whispered some endearment into her ear which made her smile, a very timorous smile though it was indeed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They now walked along a corridor and then through into a room where the wheel chair stopped. \u00a0 Adam released her hand, she heard him talking to someone who now approached her, she could smell disinfectant, the slight whiff of moth balls, tobacco.\u00a0 A man was standing in front of her, and now leaned down and took her hand, shook it gently, \u201cI\u2019m Mr Callaghan, I\u2019m a Consultant in Eye Surgery from San Francisco General Hospital. \u00a0 This is a preliminary examination, Mrs Cartwright, so please don\u2019t be alarmed at the results today, it will be just a prelude to the examination on Saturday but will \u00a0help me to know how well things are healing and affecting your eye sight.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She drew in her breath, felt the touch of Adam\u2019s hand upon her shoulder and reached out to touch his fingers.\u00a0 Callaghan turned to Adam and reminded him that although he should not be there, the fact that they had endured so much over the past few days would entitle his presence, but could he please move away so that he could get on with his job.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam did so, standing by the door, his hat clasped between his hands in front of him and watching with anxious, almost fearful, eyes on his wife.\u00a0 He had thought over the implications of the changes in their lives if Olivia were blind, but now, the reality of this possible eventuality, made him feel sick inside. \u00a0 He realised his mouth was dry, and longed for some water.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNurse, draw the curtains please. \u00a0 We don\u2019t want the light to cause more problems for the patient. \u00a0 \u00a0Sudden shock of light could be unpleasant\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia heard the sound of the drapes \u00a0being pulled across the window and then the footsteps of the nurse approaching the wheel chair, \u00a0and scratch scratch as the pen scribbled over the paper. \u00a0\u201cI\u2019ve read your notes, Mrs Cartwright. \u00a0 So – now – let me see -\u201d \u00a0 he cleared his throat \u201cNurse, remove the bandages.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The nurse was gentle, her fingers nimble and Olivia thought that she must have done this hundreds of times during her career as a nurse. \u00a0 \u00a0She felt panic causing her heart to race, she imagined it thumping against the fabric of her clothing. \u00a0 \u00a0Darkness became dark grey, dark grey became lighter\u2026.a hand began to travel around her skull, and Callaghan muttered something when he located the injury caused by the thrown rock.\u00a0 She blinked, natural tears came to her eyes due to the change in light striking the orbs, \u00a0she felt a tear course its way down her cheek and brushed it aside.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan you see anything?\u201d Callaghan asked.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShadows of things – shadows – grey shapes\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCan you describe them?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shook her head, no, nothing. \u00a0 Her brain was screaming messages to the eyes, she was straining to be able to see objects, humans, Adam\u2026anything\u2026anything at all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can see contrasts of grey\u2026different shades?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He gave a sigh, whether or not of satisfaction she could not tell, but she waited, \u00a0and told herself that this was, surely, better than even she had hoped, but then, no, it wasn\u2019t – she had wanted to see everything, just as she would normally have done.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Callaghan began to \u00a0stare into her eyes, made her look to left, to right, straight ahead. Peered into her eyes with an instrument and then turned to the nurse and asked her to draw back the curtains, let the light into the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was staring into the eyes, watching the pupils as they dilated, narrowed, seemed to focus.\u00a0 He leaned down and stared into them using the instruments from a \u00a0tray, telling her to look left, to the right, straight ahead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Can you see anything at all differently than before, Mrs Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can see there is a window ahead of me, it is a lighter grey, rectanglar.\u201d she replied, her voice wobbled, she was disappointed.\u00a0 She wanted to be able to tell them that she saw light, she could describe the pattern on the curtains, she could see her husband\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swallowed down disappointment too.\u00a0 His mouth was drier than ever, he bowed his head, and ran a finger across his brow wiping aside sweat.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Callaghan nodded, stepped back\u2026scribble scribble on the paper\u2026he looked over at Adam and smiled \u201cVery good. \u00a0 Very good indeed.\u00a0 It will be interesting to see what improvement there will be by Saturday.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The nurse stepped forward \u201cThe bandages, Doctor?\u00a0 Do I replace them?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Callaghan paused a moment as he scribbled something down, then he looked at Olivia, and shook his head \u201cNo, \u00a0let the eyes do some work now, \u00a0like every muscle they will atrophy if not used, \u00a0so leave them for now.\u00a0 We shall see how things progress by Saturday.\u201d \u00a0 he paused again and looked around the room, exclaimed \u2019Aah,\u201d and walked away to a cabinet, opened a drawer and after rummaging around produced from within a pair of dark glasses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swallowed hard, the first indication of a blind person were the black glasses followed by the white stick, the hesitant steps.\u00a0 He watched as Callaghan placed them in Olivia\u2019s hand \u201cPut them on yourself, Mrs Cartwright, get used to the feel of them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Get used to the feel of them?\u00a0 What in heavens name did that portend?\u00a0 Adam drew in a deep breath as Olivia put on the dark glasses, her face expressionless. \u00a0 Callaghan smiled, \u201cI hope to be able to tell you on Saturday that they will not be permanent.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The nurse nodded, \u00a0put her hands to the handles of the wheelchair and turned it to the door, where Adam stepped forward, \u00a0\u201cMay I?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He dropped a kiss on the top of Olivia\u2019s blonde head as he took the nurse\u2019s place, and then very carefully, as though she were the most fragile of the flowers in a field, he pushed her from the room<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d she whispered, and raised her hand which he leaned down to catch hold of \u00a0momentarily, \u00a0\u201cDoes this mean I\u2019ll \u00a0be blind?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou aren\u2019t blind,\u201d he replied, \u00a0and shut his mouth firmly in that obstinate, stubborn line his family knew so well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 73<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Work at the Ponderosa still had to be done, it couldn\u2019t be left to Joe with his broken arm, Candy and Pa, and the ranch hands were busy getting ready for the spring round up. The promise of more calves than for some years was good as far as profits were concerned but it ate into time that neither Adam or Hoss felt they had just now.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Other things had to be dealt with too, paperwork had to be attended to and child care could not be neglected. Adam felt torn into so many pieces that sometimes he didn\u2019t know in which direction he was heading from one hour to the next. Hoss was able to return home to his girls and Erik, to Hop Sing and Ben fussing around but Adam had Reuben and Sofia at Bridie\u2019s so that they could get to school with no problems regarding getting them ready in the morning while Nathaniel was left with Cheng ho Lee until Mary Ann would come for him and take him to play with Daniel and Charlotte, or stop at Ben\u2019s and have all the children together there.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben was waiting for Adam and Hoss to return the day of Olivia\u2019s eye examination. He had spent some time playing with his little grandson, who had become quieter since the weekend, and Ben rightly supposed it was because he was missing his Mother, and probably his father too for a child always looked for the other parent if one was missing over long. He recognised the signs from a long time ago when Marie had gone, and Joe had pined for her for weeks. At least, he told himself, this little boy would get his Mother back eventually.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He had Nathaniel in his arms when Adam entered the house and before his son could notice his presence Ben took stock of the other man as he tossed his hat onto the peg, and turned slowly to the doorway of the big room. The smile was slow in coming and he looked as he was, a man weighed down by problems.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Cheng Ho Lee bustled in, caught Adam\u2019s eye and nodded before returning to the kitchen to prepare his master some coffee. Nathaniel held out his arms to his father and in silence the boy was passed from one man to the other, and as the boy wrapped his arms around Adam\u2019s neck Ben asked him how the examination had gone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam sat down before answering, moving the child onto his lap and giving him a smile which made the boy look a little confused. Children noticed when smiles didn\u2019t reach the eyes, they realised that the smile was there but something about it was missing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt went well enough.\u201d Adam replied slowly, crinkling his brow and pausing for thought. \u201cThey\u2019ve removed the bandages and she\u2019s wearing dark glasses\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s good, isn\u2019t it?\u201d Ben asked cautiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI think so.\u201d Adam nodded and when Nathaniel wriggled to get down he let the boy slip from his lap and watched as he ran to his toys. \u201cI went back to have a brief word with the consultant, a Mr Callaghan.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel rummaged noisily in his toy box, Cheng Ho Lee returned to the room with a tray of coffee fixings, the cups and saucers rattled as he set them down. Nathaniel ran back to his father holding a wooden boat in his hands. Hoss had carved it out for him some while back, and Reuben had painted it blue and white. He held the boat up to Adam who smiled, nodded and picked the boy up again to place him on his lap and wait for the child to say something, but Nathaniel said nothing, just clutched the boat to his chest and stared out into the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben poured the coffee and waited, just as Adam waited for his son to gabble some rubbish, Ben waited for Adam to provide him with some information about the comments the Consultant may have made. It was only when the cup and saucer was in his hand that Adam spoke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCallaghan said the eyes were healthy. The reaction to light and shade, everything was as it should be, but he thinks the blow from the rock has caused the -\u201d he paused and closed his eyes, whether in an attempt to remember the exact words or because he was too tired and didn\u2019t want to discuss it further Ben could not tell. He sipped his coffee, and Ben did the same, while Nathaniel leaned against his father\u2019s chest and waved the boat up and down as though it were sailing on invisible waves.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe blow to her head may have damaged the brain in that the messages it sends to the eyes isn\u2019t getting through – he said it was as though there was a kink in the -\u201d he shrugged \u201csome word or other I can\u2019t recall.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo what happens on Saturday?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019ll see if there\u2019s any change at all, if there is a positive change then it could indicate that the problem will heal itself, in time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd if it isn\u2019t a positive result?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam shrugged, drank some coffee and then set the cup back into the saucer, back onto the table. Nathaniel held his boat up and said \u201cBoat, Daddy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf it isn\u2019t positive then it will be a case of more tests, waiting for results, waiting to see if the problem sorts itself out in time. I don\u2019t know, he didn\u2019t know,\u201d he shrugged, \u201cBut he felt positive about it, he thought the results today were good.\u201d he sighed and leaned against the back of the chair, Nathaniel looked at his Grandfather and then at Adam and scrambled down to run into the kitchen \u201cReuben and Sofia sneaked into the hospital to see Olivia.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled then, the first genuine smile Ben had seen on his face since his arrival and his eyes twinkled, \u201cSeems they managed to slip undetected and even hid under the beds when it seemed that they were going to get caught.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cUh?\u201d Ben grimaced and shook his head, \u201cThey\u2019re getting more like Cartwrights every day, stubborn as mules.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam glanced at his father and gave a slight pout, he didn\u2019t like to \u2018nit-pick\u2019 and say that they had been Cartwrights for a very long time, but he knew what Ben meant and smiled again, \u201cGuess you could say that, reminded me of Joe and some of his pranks.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShows they have spirit.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam merely nodded and glanced around the room \u201cIt seems wrong somehow, this room, the house – empty without Livvy here, and the children.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know what you mean, it was the same when -\u201d Ben paused and frowned, at least Livvy was alive and coming home was what he wanted to say, Adam cast another look over at him, understanding only too well the inference, and remembering for himself the way the Ponderosa had felt when Marie had died\u2026but then it was even worse when Ben had taken it upon himself to leave for months at a time, leaving the empty house for the three boys to rattle in and cope as best they could\u2026yes, a lonely time, a sad home, and Adam turned away to look elsewhere.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Not long after that Ben left for his own home, leaving Adam with Nathaniel standing together at the door waving him off. He had felt a twinge of guilt on deciding to leave, knowing that perhaps Adam would have preferred him to have stayed for the evening meal, but there was too much paper work to be done back home and Hoss with three children. He had thought of suggesting that they all moved into the one house, it would be no problem as there was room enough but he knew Adam would, for now, prefer his own company.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The evening hours ticked by, and at Bridie\u2019s house Reuben and Sofia were sleeping soundly, reassured that their misdeed of the day had not resulted in any punishment harsh enough to cause them any misery. They had seen their Mother, and even if they had been anxious about her appearance Adam had reassured them adequately that all would soon be well. Even the spiders would, he promised, be removed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

At the Ponderosa the moon softened shadows by its silvery light, gliding over the dark sky, hiding behind clouds, casting shards of light across the floors, over the beds, some empty and some not. At Adam\u2019s house it stole across the face of the little boy in his bed, and he woke, fluttering his eyes and wondering if it were time to get up and eat, or still time to sleep. Then he remembered Mother was not there, and he began to cry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was past 2 in the morning, the time Adam usually was up to prowl around the house, or stroll around the yard and view the stars, the moon\u2026.or perhaps in the study reading, totting up his own ledgers and not his Pa\u2019s for a change. He was standing by the fire in the sitting room with just the glow from the flames and one lamp by the settee when he heard the wail of the child. He took a last look at the fire, detached himself from his thoughts and made his way to the stairs and to the room where Nathaniel sat in his bed, rubbing his eyes, crying for his Momma.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He paused, quivering lip and tears dripping down his cheeks as the door opened. He gave a shuddering sob and got to his feet, rolled out of the bed and ran with toddler steps to his father, arms outstretched, wailing for comfort.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam leaned down and swept the boy into his arms, held him close and stroked the back of the boys head gently. Years ago he would have done the same for his brother, Little Joe, always wailing about something, but older than Nathaniel was now when he had lost his Mother and woke at night wailing\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMommy? Mommy gone?\u201d Nathaniel sobbed into the crook of Adam\u2019s neck<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cJust for a little while, she\u2019ll be home soon.\u201d Adam whispered as though there were others in the house who would wake up, startled, at the sound of his voice were he to speak any louder.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMommy gone?\u201d the child persisted but clung tightly to his father as Adam carried him back downstairs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

On the table was the little wooden boat, abandoned it seemed, and to this Nathaniel pointed \u201cBoat.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam picked it up and the boy snatched it up, cuddled it close under his chin, his eyes scanning the room until they fell upon the object he sought and to this he pointed \u201cBoat?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam turned in the direction of the pointed finger and shook his head \u201cShip.\u201d and carried the boy to the shelf upon which the model of the Shenandoah reposed, little fingers reached to grab at it and Adam took it down and carried it over to the table upon where he placed it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel had never seen it so close up before and was entranced, he set down his own little wooden vessel that had sailed the waves of many a horse trough, to observe the ship closely. While he did so Adam turned up the lamp, and lit another so that the table and the ship could be better seen. He then picked the boy up and set him upon his lap, \u201cSee, Nathaniel, the cabin here – that\u2019s where I used to spend many a night, and a day, and here it where I would walk the deck\u2026\u201d he trailed his finger along the little wooden decking, and smiled, pouted at the memories that were provoked by just doing that\u2026Nathaniel poked at the rigging with a little finger then looked up at his father before settling back to lean upon Adam\u2019s chest, listening to the beat of his heart beneath his ear.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

How long ago had it been now since he had walked that deck, Adam thought as he stroked the boys back and felt his warmth against his chest. The wind buffeting his face as he stood at the bridge, the storms that had been faced. He thought of the time he and O\u2019Brien had sailed into Alaskas waters in springtime and ice floes had greeted them, snow and sleet and the magnificence of the aurora borealis. Faces flickered through his minds eye, memory was a curse as well as a blessing as Rostov and O’Brien\u2019s faces reminded him of the fight by the ice wall and how O\u2019Brien had fallen\u2026he sighed and shook his head. Then there had been Cassandra Pelman who had nearly killed him and when she hadn\u2019t, had tried again –<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Little snorts from the child, Nathaniel had fallen asleep, his little boat clasped firmly in his chubby dimpled hand. Adam bowed his head, rested his stubbled cheek upon the boys black curls and reminded himself that he was well blessed. Whatever he and Livvy had to face in the future, they would face head on\u2026undaunted. It was all part of the challenge of life and if there were no challenges then there would be no adventures and then life would pass, be over and nothing gained.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He carried the child back to his bed and pulled the quilt over him. The moon had gone into a sulk, hiding behind clouds. Tomorrow there would be rain\u2026<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 74<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sound of scissors snipping through the cat gut that had been threaded through her wounds sounded like mini-explosions being so close to Olivia\u2019s ear. \u00a0 She could not help but tense herself, as the nurse snipped away and then carefully tugged the threads through before gently wiping away at the wounds with iodine which made Olivia screw up her eyes and clench her good fist<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sound of footsteps which Olivia recognised as those of the Matron, and she noticed how the young nurse stopped in her work.\u00a0 She imagined the young woman poised with scissors held aloft in one hand while she waited to pay attention to the other Nurse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow are you getting along, Nurse? \u00a0 Haven\u2019t you finished yet?\u201d a crisp starched voice, \u00a0that seemed to suit her crisp starched personality, Olivia imagined her with a very stiffly starched uniform as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNearly finished, Matron.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGet on with it then, Nurse.\u00a0 Don\u2019t take all day over a simple job as that\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The footsteps retreated, the sigh from the younger nurse drifted past Olivia\u2019s cheek, and the snipping recommenced on the injury to her forehead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia sat as still as she could despite the tugging, the pulling, and the sting of iodine.\u00a0 Hester had left the ward, another nurse had wheeled her away and she had called out farewell as she went through the door to \u00a0meet Hoss. \u00a0 Olivia knew that Adam would be downstairs waiting for her too, \u00a0but not to take her home, to take her instead to the Consultants room for the next examination.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It had been a strange week. \u00a0 Shortly after the previous examination on her eyes when she had been given the dark glasses, \u00a0Matron had arrived and removed them, \u00a0placed large squares of gauze over her eyes and bound them, then replaced the glasses.\u00a0 She had explained that it was light and the sun shining through could affect her sight, best to be cautious she had said, and patted Olivia on the shoulder as though she were some pet dog.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It had filled Olivia with despair.\u00a0 Not so much the re-bandaging which was not so bad as previously but because of her helplessness. \u00a0 People around her doing things, natural normal things like walking around the ward, reading letters or books, able to read the expressions on the faces of their loved one\u2026while she was never knowing who was coming near her, who was going to do what unless they told her, oh the dependence upon others was going to be intolerable if she were to be without sight for the rest of her life.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There were just a few more stitches to be removed just along the jaw line near her chin.\u00a0 The nurse talked as she snipped away the threads, \u201cOnce these heal \u00a0up you won\u2019t notice them. \u00a0 The Doctor did a fine job on stitching them too, \u00a0very small and fine \u00a0they are\u2026 \u00a0the one on your forehead will be easy to hide anyway with your hair, and when \u00a0you get old and have frown lines that will make it even better ..no one will ever know\u2026and with the one by your ear, well, your hair will hide that too.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She leaned down to pull away the last stitch from Olivia\u2019s chin, her own hair tickled against Olivia\u2019s face, but she was oblivious of that as she tugged away the last thread and dabbed the injury with iodine. \u00a0 \u201cThere now, you look a little patchy with the yellow from the iodine but it won\u2019t last.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Scissors, tweezers were dropped alongside the stitches in to the metal bowl, and then she was gone.\u00a0 Olivia heard her walking quickly away, \u00a0and knew that she was now alone. \u00a0 No Hester to talk to\u2026..no one until she went down to the Consultant. \u00a0 \u00a0She bowed her head and could have wept.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHere she is , here\u2019s Mommy.\u201d \u00a0Ben cried as he flung open the door to the house so that Hoss could wheel Hester into the building.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Squeals from the little girls, a yell from Erik, and a cry of delight from Hester\u2026while Hop Sing nodded and smiled from where he was standing and Peggy \u00a0stood beside him, a smile on her face and hands clasped together beneath her chin.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWelcome home, Hester.\u201d \u00a0she said with such warmth and sincerity that Hester could only smile and nod over at her above the heads of her children.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Erik had clambered onto her lap, hugging her tightly in what was rather more of a stranglehold. \u00a0 Hannah kissed her cheek, while Hope grabbed a hand and held it tightly while Hoss pushed the wheelchair closer to the fireplace, to where she customarily sat when she was home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester dabbed at her eyes, bent down to kiss Eriks plump dimpled cheek, and then to kiss the girls one by one, \u00a0before taking a kiss from Hoss who was swelling up with pride and delight at having her home again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe missed you, dear.\u201d Ben said simply \u201cWelcome home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh Ben, \u00a0I\u2019ve missed \u00a0you all so much.\u00a0 You can\u2019t imagine how miserable a week it has been, \u00a0I only wish that Olivia were here now too.\u201d and she wiped more tears from her cheeks which elicited cries of \u201cDon\u2019t cry, Mommy\u2026.\u201d \u00a0 \u201cYou\u2019re home now, Mommy\u2026don\u2019t cry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy felt the burden of guilt once again, it seemed to be like a heavy unremitting load that weighed her down, a dark cloud that shifted and turned to create only misery in its wake.\u00a0 Ben came and put his arm around her, gave her a hug \u201cDon\u2019t be so sad, Peggy. \u00a0 Olivia will be home soon -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy gave a bleak smile and nodded, \u00a0she didn\u2019t want to pursue the thought of Olivia returning home because it evoked other thoughts, \u00a0and fears. \u00a0 She approached Hester and took hold of her hand,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWas Olivia all right when you left her?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThe nurse was taking out the stitches – she\u2019s healing up very well.\u201d Hester said and very daintily blew her nose, \u00a0\u201cOh dear, I must look a mess. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The door opened with a thud and seemed to fill with Cartwrights as Mary Ann and Joe, with the children, entered the room.\u00a0 If there was a frission of ice in \u00a0the air between Joe and Peggy no one noticed or commented, instead he stood beside Hoss with a big grin on his face<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cGlad to see you home again, Hester.\u201d he said as Mary Ann placed a bouquet of flowers \u00a0in Hester\u2019s arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m glad to be home, I\u2019ve missed everyone so much.\u201d Hester replied and buried her nose in the flowers and then smiled up at Mary Ann \u201cThese are beautiful, thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow was Olivia when you left her, Hester?\u201d Joe now asked and Hester\u2019s smile faded, a little frown creased her brow,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cShe was – all right – anxious to get home too, of course.\u201d \u00a0she looked down at Erik who was examining his mother\u2019s plaster cast very seriously, prodding it with his finger and looking worried. \u00a0 \u201cWhat a sight we are\u2026you with your arm still in the sling, Joe, and me here, like this\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was a brave attempt to change the subject.\u00a0 Everyone smiled and Hoss picked Erik up and carried him over to Ben \u00a0where the three of them stood in the corner of the room.\u00a0 Peggy had quietly, unobtrusively vacated the room and gone to seek the solace of her own where she could resume her packing and read a little.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The knock on her door was unexpected, but when it opened Mary Ann peeked inside and gave Peggy a smile, rather a timid one, for their last meeting together had been less than friendly and she was sure that Peggy would not have forgotten it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHave you a few minutes to spare?\u201d \u00a0she said quietly<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded and indicated the chair for Mary Ann to sit down, while she perched on to the side of the bed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI felt awkward being down stairs just now.\u00a0 It wasn\u2019t my place to be there\u2026\u201d she explained with a downcast smile.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI can understand how you feel, Peggy. \u00a0 \u00a0 You have rather taken the brunt of what happened and it wasn\u2019t really fair of us to treat you like that -\u201d she \u00a0held up a hand to stop Peggy saying a word \u201cNo, \u00a0there\u2019s no need to say anything, Peggy. \u00a0 If people had behaved in a civilised manner than it would not have happened, would it?\u201d she smiled and then looked at the clothes and suitcases \u201cSo you are leaving us?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I have had a proposal from Maurice, and – and I thought I would go back home as soon as possible before he forgets he made it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI doubt he would forget, Peggy\u2026.he\u2019s such a lovely man.\u00a0 We all fell in love with him a little, I think.\u201d Mary Ann\u2019s eyes twinkled, and her smile was warm and genuine. \u00a0\u201cWhen will you leave?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOn Monday. \u00a0 I want to see Adam before I go\u2026and a few others.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOf course.\u00a0 Of course you would, and I know Adam would be dismayed if you were to leave before seeing him. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou know that Amanda Ridley will be leaving town at the end of the month, don\u2019t you?\u201d \u00a0Peggy glanced over at Mary Ann as she neatly folded away a blouse, \u201cShe wants to pursue the Cause, get more involved in it. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAnd don\u2019t you?\u201d Mary Ann leaned forward as though curious as to what the girl would say and Peggy smiled and shook her head,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, \u00a0even though it is a Cause I believe in, I don\u2019t think I\u2019m ready to get further involved that I have already been.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBurned your fingers -\u201d Mary Ann said quietly<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I think so.\u201d Peggy paused a moment, holding a chemise against her chest as she stared thoughtfully out of the window \u201cWell, perhaps not – it is just that I\u2019m not ready for the fight, and what happened here shows that there will be a fight for emancipation. I wanted it to be peaceful transition, \u00a0a rather silly na\u00efve vision I think.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, I think so.\u00a0 But it showed that is how I was viewing it too – I didn\u2019t imagine it would be accepted any other way than with open arms.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They looked at one another and smiled, then Mary Ann stood up and smoothed down her skirts \u201cWell, the town will be quieter without Amanda in it.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy nodded and placed the chemise carefully along with the other items in the case \u201cShe doesn\u2019t want anyone to know yet\u2026.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann just nodded and walked over to the door, opened it and stood there a moment, \u201cDon\u2019t take too long, Peggy. Hop Sing has prepared a special home welcoming meal for Hester, and he – as well as all of us – would be disappointed if you didn\u2019t join us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cEven Joe?\u201d Peggy grinned mischievously<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, even Joe.\u201d Mary Ann laughed \u201cYou should not take any notice of him, Peggy. You know how quick he is to lose his temper but he is just as quick to want to sue for peace afterwards.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Peggy didn\u2019t say anything to that, it seemed to her that Joe had \u00a0been very reticent about pursuing for peace with her.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam stood very erect and tall in the foyer of the hospital.\u00a0 He had Nathaniel in his arms, held in the crook of his left arm while he held Sofia by the hand with his right hand. \u00a0 Reuben stood beside him, looking very smart with his hair slicked down and his boots shining.\u00a0 Beside them stood Bridie, that bastion of fondness and love, ready to take the children once Adam had to leave.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia had not expected to be greeted with such a delegation \u2026when she was wheeled into the reception area of the hospital instead of being taken to the Consultants office she was too nervous to ask what was happening, \u00a0but when she heard Nathaniel\u2019s voice calling to her she gave an involuntary cry of delight and pleasure, holding out her arms and waiting for him to fling himself into them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam set the child down and as anticipated he ran towards Olivia, ignored the patches of yellow on her face, but flung his arms around her neck and held as tight as he could to her as though he would never let her go again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What a joy to feel the warmth of his body against her, she kissed him over and over, and then when she felt Sofia\u2019s fingers slip into her own she turned her face up to smile at her daughter \u201cMommy, they painted your face all yellow.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019ll wash off.\u201d Olivia laughed<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cBetter than the spiders, Sofee\u201d Reuben said and rather coyly went over to his mother and hugged her \u201cAre you better now, Ma?\u00a0 Will \u00a0you be home soon?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSoon as I can be\u2026.did you see Aunty Hester?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, \u00a0Uncle Hoss took her away before we got here.\u201d Reuben replied and kissed her again.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt took me a while to – er – coax the authorities to let the children see you,\u201d Adam explained and took her hand to kiss her fingers.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The nurse looked pointedly at the clock on the wall and Bridie stepped forward \u201cThat\u2019s enough now, children, we have to go.\u00a0 Say goodbye to your mother – and no fuss!\u201d \u00a0 she looked sternly at Nathaniel whose bottom lip was quivering but who turned to Adam as if for reassurance that Bridie was right, which she was of course.\u00a0 Adam picked him up and swung him over to wards Bridie who took his \u00a0hand in hers and waited for Reuben and Sofia to join her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They called out their goodbyes and watched as the nurse turned the wheelchair away from them, although Olivia waved until Adam caught hold of her hand because she was waving to the wall, and the children had disappeared already from view.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 75<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The room was just as it had been on their previous consultation and Mr Callaghan was \u00a0standing in much the same position, giving the impression that he had been stored away in situ and only now wheeled out of the box and set back in place. \u00a0 He was studying the notes he had made from the previous examination and after some moments had elapsed turned to look at them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A handsome couple, he thought – he knew Adam\u2019s history, had heard talk about him from years back, he had even seen him once in the hospital at San Francisco during the unfortunate Pelman affair.\u00a0 He also knew Soames, a man who had been the Medical Officer on board the Baltimore, and Soames had loved discussing the adventures he had shared with Commodore Cartwright.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So, here he was now, standing beside his wife, his hand protectively upon her shoulder and his eyes fixed upon Callaghan as though daring him to tell them anything negative. \u00a0 As though he was the authority behind such matters, Callaghan thought and then turned his attention to the woman.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia Cartwright was a strikingly attractive woman, even if dabbed over with iodine and her eyes covered by the gauze which kept the padding over the eyes. \u00a0 Callaghan sighed, and indicated to the nurse that the curtains be drawn across. He looked at Adam, \u00a0and nodded<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIf you wouldn\u2019t mind, Mr Cartwright, moving aside so I can proceed.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam gave Olivia\u2019s shoulder a light squeeze of reassurance and stepped back to where he had stood previously; he stood and waited, his hands clasped together in front of him, \u00a0legs slightly apart. \u00a0 Callaghan was grateful the wasn\u2019t wearing full dress uniform and barking orders – he wondered briefly if Adam had any memory of meeting him before, \u00a0all that time ago.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell now, Mrs Cartwright\u2026I\u2019m just going to unwind these bandages and remove the eye pads.\u00a0 As I told your husband your eyes are healthy, that is, they are behaving as they should – reacting to light, \u00a0pupils dilating – \u201c he leaned down and checked that they were actually doing what they should, and nodded, beckoned to the nurse to return the curtains so that the light would come into the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia blinked, her eyes watered, \u00a0tears streamed down her face and the nurse came and dabbed them away.\u00a0 Callaghan leaned closer with his instruments and stared into each eye. \u00a0 He took time and care over each one, and then nodded. \u00a0 The tears dried away as the eyes became accustomed to the light, \u00a0he checked them again –<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat can you see, Mrs Cartwright?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia had expected to shout and cheer \u00a0were she able to see at all, she had fully anticipated seeing everything as she always had throughout her life time. \u00a020\/20 vision they had called it once, and she had thought if she were going to be able to see that it would be as sharp and clear as it had ever been.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could see\u2026.and she felt immense relief and pleasure, delight and relief at being able to say \u00a0to Callaghan that she could, \u00a0she nodded \u201cI can see -\u201d \u00a0she turned to where she thought Adam would be standing and smiled, yes, he was there, a darkly dressed shape, a pale face – but nothing was clear, everything was as though through a curtain, a vague nebulous view of everything. \u00a0 \u201cbut not clearly.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam swallowed the lump in his throat and heaved in a deep breath.\u00a0 Like Olivia he had, in his ignorance, expected her to leap up out of the chair, rush over to him shouting \u201cI can see, I can see\u201d that wonderful eureka moment – \u00a0–<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Callaghan nodded, \u00a0and patted her on the shoulder \u201cVery good, very good.\u201d he said reassuringly. \u00a0 \u201cNow, I know you\u2019ll be disappointed, you no doubt thought you would be able to see perfectly well, \u00a0and perhaps I should have prepared you for the fact that this would undoubtedly have been the outcome of the injury you sustained. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He leaned forward, peered into each eye, took his time yet again to check and recheck the reaction of each.\u00a0 He looked over to the nurse and asked her to bring the \u2018eye chart\u2019 forward and by using this familiar method of testing the vision he was able to discern that Olivia could see quite clearly, although not sharply, what was in front of her within a certain radius.\u00a0 As the chart was moved back and further back, so she saw less and less clearly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There were other tests, all of which took time, \u00a0but Callaghan was patient, \u00a0and Olivia was in no hurry to leave without some clear indication of what was happening to her.\u00a0 Adam leaned against the wall, his leg was aching, he could never stand in one position for too long without wanting to move, or lean, or fidget.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Finally Callaghan pulled out a chair and sat down, \u00a0he looked at Adam and then Olivia, and nodded. \u201cI\u2019m very reassured by this examination, Mrs Cartwright, even though, I imagine, you are not.\u201d \u00a0 he smiled at her, and she nodded, clasped her hands together in her lap and tried to look optimistic.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou may not believe this, but there has been great improvement since that first exam.\u00a0 I am going to prescribe you some eye glasses, \u00a0it will be a strong prescription for now, but I feel quite convinced that when I see you in six weeks time you will not need them.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He frowned and looked down at his notes, before looking at her again \u201cIt may be that your eyesight will never regain the clarity it once had, you may always need to wear spectacles to help you with close work, but you will be able to see much better over time.\u00a0 Everything needs time to heal, the injury to your head may never repair itself a 100%, but it will \u00a0heal to the extent it can and more than it has already. \u00a0 You are not blind, nor do you have to worry about ever being blind. \u00a0 You will just need a little \u00a0help to see more clearly.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia nodded, her eyes moved from object to object, she could see the face of the nurse, not clearly, \u00a0that was true, but she was confident that what the doctor was saying was quite true. \u00a0 She was not blind, she could see, even if as though \u2018through a glass darkly\u2019 and she clung to the promise that it would get better.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He leaned against the edge of a long desk and folded his arms across his chest, surveying her in silence for a moment before he spoke again \u201cLike anything that is injured the healing process can be painful.\u00a0 You will experience severe head aches, what we call migraines – \u00a0you have had some already I should think?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, some -\u201d Olivia replied quietly as though ashamed to have to admit to such a thing.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded gravely \u201cThey will eventually fade, over time, but they will be severe for a while, may even cause nausea, so when you feel that one is starting do take yourself off to a quiet room and lie down.\u00a0 I shall write a prescription for some medication you \u00a0could take to help.\u00a0 Try and sleep it off if possible. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He tapped his mouth with his forefinger, glanced sideways over to where Adam stood although the rancher was staring into space as though he wished he wasn\u2019t there, \u00a0and then continued \u201cYou may find your eyes will grow tired \u00a0and that in turn will produce headaches too\u2026in strong sun light you will need to wear your dark glasses for a while.\u201d he smiled briefly, \u00a0and nodded \u201cThis is all temporary. \u00a0 It won\u2019t last.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They were silent for a good minute, before Olivia realised she should speak.\u00a0 She didn\u2019t know whether to ask him questions, what, in fact, she should ask him,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Mr Callaghan.\u201d she said quietly and reached out her hand which he took and shook within his own, \u201cWhen do I see you again?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIn six weeks time. \u00a0 I\u2019m afraid it will have to be in San Francisco as I have a lot scheduled for the coming months but do not want to lose \u00a0the opportunity of seeing and checking your progress. \u00a0 \u00a0Would you be able to do that?\u201d \u00a0he flung the words over at Adam who nodded and asked for a specific date which Callaghan promptly provided.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll get your eye glasses ready for you by tomorrow before I leave town. \u00a0 I don\u2019t think the doctors here want you to leave hospital yet awhile, until your other injuries are better healed\u2026am I right ?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, sadly you are,\u201d Olivia replied with a rather whimsical smile, \u201cI would have preferred to have been going \u00a0home but -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a tragedy that it happened at all,\u201d Callaghan said, turning from her to sign some papers with a black scrawl of ink. \u00a0\u201cSo, I shall see you tomorrow with your glasses, and after that, in six weeks time.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded to her, and that was all, they were dismissed and with a wry downturn of the mouth Adam went to the wheelchair and carefully manoeuvred it out of the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Once outside Olivia reached for his hand and held it close. \u00a0 She could see, that was the main thing, some things were out of focus and other things were much clearer.\u00a0 It was not perfection, not as it was and how she wished she had never taken her sight so much for granted – she put a hand to her face, touched her skin the flesh warm beneath her fingers. \u00a0 \u201cIt\u2019s going to be alright, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded \u201cYes, of course it will be. \u00a0 I will contact Martha and ask her if she can handle us for a few days – it will be a holiday, of sorts.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She laughed then, her laughter clear and tinkling and lightning her husband\u2019s \u00a0heart at the sound of it, \u201cA holiday, Adam\u2026goodness me, whatever next?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps Pa would like to come too -\u201d Adam grinned and chuckled, \u201cI\u2019m sure Martha would love to have him stay for a while.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia laughed again\u2026.she knew Martha would love to have them all stay with her, but just how happy Ben would be at the idea was another thing altogether.\u00a0 The nurse came to take the wheelchair from him, \u00a0but he relinquished it with some regret, and then squatted down closer to his wife and touched her face, gently; \u00a0 she in turn leaned to him and cupped her hands around his face and stared into his eyes, \u00a0tears welled up into her own, \u00a0and she gave a rather tremulous smile<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI was so frightened, Adam\u2026I thought I would never see your dear face ever again – \u201c and lightly her fingers traced along \u00a0a furrow of his brow, evidence of many years of his fierce frowns and scowls, \u00a0she shook her head as though in wonder, as though being \u00a0able to see was a miracle after all<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They didn\u2019t speak a word but the intensity of their gaze was so intimate that the nurse turned her head as though to give them more privacy before he rose to his feet, bade her farewell and stepped back for the wheel chair to be whisked away and back to the ward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie and Paul Martin were waiting for Adam\u2019s return to the house, for along with the children they were more than eager to know the result of this latest examination.\u00a0 When the wicket gate creaked shut it was Sofia who jumped out of her chair and cried out \u201cDaddy\u2019s here – Daddy\u2019s coming -\u201d and rushed to the door closely followed by Bridie, and behind her came Reuben and Nathaniel, all squashed in together by the front door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie could tell from Adam\u2019s face, from just the way he stood that there was good news.\u00a0 There was a lightness about him, as though he had shed off a heavy weight, as though he could finally throw off a burden and get on with life.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He removed his hat, kissed Bridie on the cheek and winked over at Paul, who had come up behind them all like a trusty sheep dog. \u00a0 He stooped to pick up Nathaniel who demanded immediately to know where his mommy was, \u00a0and then followed Paul and Bridie into the parlour, the children trailing behind him, apart from Nathaniel who clung jealously to his position in his father\u2019s arms.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He told them all what had taken place, \u00a0with Bridie smiling and nodding, while Paul nodded and frowned and asked several questions along \u00a0medical lines that Adam just about kept \u00a0up with, and Sofia leaned against one leg while Reuben stood as close to him as possible<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo when is Ma coming home?\u201d \u00a0Reuben asked<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWill she be able to see us again, will she be able to read stories to \u00a0me?\u201d Sofia demanded<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel put his thumb in his mouth and decided to stay silent, this was all too much for him, he didn\u2019t understand a thing that was going on, and just wanted the reassurance of his Pa\u2019s arms around him, and to know that he was safe there, and that along with all the words he was hearing there was the promise of Mommy coming home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 76<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was Hoss who took Peggy\u2019s luggage to the trunk of \u00a0 the buggy and \u00a0carefully positioned the cases and boxes into place. \u00a0 Then he returned to the porch and stood beside the wheelchair where Hester was seated, Erik on her knee and the girls standing on either side of her. \u00a0 It was a near perfect family picture, a snapshot of their life together, and Peggy smiled as she glanced back at them while she walked over to the where Adam stood beside the horse, stroking its nose and patiently waiting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben, Joe and Mary Ann, with Constance in her arms and Daniel tugging onto Joe\u2019s hand stood a little further aside.\u00a0 They had all said their farewells. \u00a0 Joe had even embraced Peggy and asked her to forgive him for being so grumpy, \u00a0which had made her laugh. \u00a0 She felt light hearted now, it was the right time to leave, \u00a0to get back to who she really was and to what she would become in the future.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam took her elbow and assisted her into the buggy, tucked her skirts tidily away and then walked around the back of the vehicle to \u00a0get in, \u00a0take up the reins and flick them to get the horses started and to slowly jounce out of the yard.\u00a0 Everyone waved, everyone shouted \u2018Good bye, Peggy..\u2019 \u00a0and she smiled to herself as she realised no one had said \u2018Come \u00a0back soon.\u2019<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

For some while they drove along in silence, the horses trotted along at a steady speed and she knew that they would get into town with enough time and to spare for her to be at the station at Golds Hill for the train. \u00a0 It would \u00a0be a long journey.\u00a0 She was still not sure about stopping off to visit her mother and Will, \u00a0although she had written to them to tell them she was returning back to England and leaving the Ponderosa on such and such a day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sun was warm to her face and she adjusted the fine net veil that covered her hat, fastened there by a small posy of silk violets and rosebuds.\u00a0 Adam stole a quick glance at her from the corner of his eyes and smiled before resuming \u00a0his attention on the horses.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAdam?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI – I just wanted to say that I\u2019m sorry this time spent on the Ponderosa was not the most pleasant – I realise that things I said and did were -\u201d she paused for the right word, he didn\u2019t speak to interrupt her train of thought although he was interested in what she was saying, \u00a0he gave a slight smile when she continued \u201cungracious, \u00a0and unfair. \u00a0 As a guest here, I – I rather abused your hospitality.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She looked at him, quickly before turning back to view the road ahead, dust was spiralling from under the horses\u2019 feet, a jack rabbit ran for shelter into the rocks, a gopher stood on its hind legs to view their passing. \u00a0 Adam shrugged<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWell, \u00a0I\u2019m sure my Pa and \u00a0Hoss – who were your hosts – appreciated your apology, Peggy. \u00a0 After all, you stayed with them, not Olivia or I.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI know – I have apologised.\u00a0 I behaved wretchedly, like a spoiled child.\u00a0 I – I said things to you -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c- that you felt you needed to say at the time, Peggy. \u201c \u00a0 he said quietly, sternly, as though he were the teacher in school and she an errant pupil. \u00a0\u201cNow put it out of your mind.\u00a0 It\u2019s done, it\u2019s over -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He knew it wasn\u2019t over.\u00a0 She knew that too. \u00a0 Ripples of what had happened would linger long after she had left.\u00a0 Olivia\u2019s recovery would take time, Hester\u2019s leg would need weeks yet to heal. \u00a0 Then there were the people who had suffered in town, \u00a0the Spencers, others of whom she knew nothing apart from them being victims of that crazy wild Saturday. \u00a0 Then there would be Amanda Ridley writing her Editorials, stirring things up before she left to further the Cause elsewhere.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So it wasn\u2019t over, not really. \u00a0 The Cause would ripple on and on, \u00a0build up and swell, engulf many many more until it became global, and then the social standards of the time would be overturned, changed for good. \u00a0 Just for the moment she wondered if it would be for the betterment of all.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhen I get back to England I intend to marry Maurice Stevens.\u201d she said matter of factly, just in case he had forgotten.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s a good man.\u201d Adam replied, and she was grateful that he didn\u2019t start talking about love and being sure of her feelings for him. \u00a0 He smiled over at her, \u201cYou\u2019ll be doing us a favour if you do marry him, Peggy, \u00a0 he was so charming and handsome that he quite swept Sofia off her feet.\u00a0 I was sure that in a few years time she would have run off to find him again and marry him herself.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She laughed, politely. \u00a0 It was too close to her own feelings for him, and she had a slight shiver in the pit of her stomach at the irony of it. \u00a0 But then little girls needed their Prince Charmings in their lives\u2026didn\u2019t they? \u00a0 It was just a shame that she had not out grown hers, \u00a0but had pursued \u00a0him over the years without the happy outcome she had hoped.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe have a lot in common, \u00a0Maurice and I. \u00a0 We both love our work – as you know. And \u00a0Maurice is totally dedicated to \u00a0archaeology. \u201c she stopped herself there, it sounded as though she were trying to \u00a0provide reasons for her considering him as a husband when really it was all about something more than \u00a0a mutual pleasure in their work.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam said nothing, \u00a0he stared ahead and thought of little Peggy, \u00a0funny little Peggy – and the morning he had ridden over with the pony \u201cYou\u2019re not trying to be my friend, are you?\u00a0 Because it won\u2019t work you know -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He sighed and turned to smile at her, and nodded \u201cYou just make sure you\u2019re happy, Peggy. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI will.\u201d she replied and then looked about her – and recognised the area as the excavation site, \u00a0where she had been to look over the resting place of the Spanish soldiers, to finalise things for the Smithsonian. It seemed so long ago now and as though it had been someone else who had been there, worked there, walking in Maurice\u2019s footsteps as he had walked in those made by those Conquistadors. \u00a0 She sighed and Adam nodded,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cCould be more secrets yet to be discovered there, Peggy.\u201d he said quietly,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI just thought that too . \u00a0 There are so many tunnels honey combed through those hills.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He chuckled \u201cWell, if we find anymore bodies that go back further than four hundred years I\u2019ll let Maurice know – although I should imagine there could only be those of some long bearded old prospectors there now.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She smiled, nodded and looked ahead of her as the town seemed to come rushing towards them.\u00a0 They passed the cemetery where Frank Dayton was buried with the hypocritical words graved on the headstone \u201cBeloved husband of -\u201d she shivered, and averted her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Now into the town itself \u00a0and Adam carefully guided the horses through the traffic, \u00a0not that it was so busy, \u00a0but wagons, \u00a0surreys, even the odd carriage or two passed them as they made their way along the Main Street of town.\u00a0 People passed by, \u00a0stopped to look into the store windows, \u00a0ignored the smell of horse dung through which the wheels of the buggy passed and deposited elsewhere. \u00a0 Small children clung to their mother\u2019s hands, \u00a0babies wailed in their perambulators pushed along by their weary mothers who had never realised that producing these wee babes would lead to endless nights of little sleep.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The sound of childrens voices as they passed the school on C Street reminded Peggy \u00a0about Sofia and Reuben, she wondered if they understood what had happened on that Saturday afternoon and if they blamed her at all. \u00a0 Amanda Ridley strolled past, her head high and her hat looking like a little ship cresting the waves of her rich strawberry blonde hair.\u00a0 She paused to look over at them and raised a hand in greeting and farewell.\u00a0 She nodded at Peggy as though she wanted her to know that she – Amanda Ridley was going to continue the fight – but she smiled at Adam who had nodded over to her and tipped his hat in acknowledgment of her presence.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They passed \u00a0Bridie in conversation with Mrs Grayson, \u00a0Bridie waved but Mrs Grayson didn\u2019t, instead she turned her head to look in the other direction.\u00a0 Peggy understood why, having received a little farewell note from Lucy who had told her that she would \u00a0be leaving Virginia City with Amanda at the end of the month.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel Greigson was coming out of the Mail Depot with a letter in his hand and a smile on his face. \u00a0 Peggy looked over at him, \u00a0wondered if there had really been any chance of a romance, \u00a0anything at all, with the handsome young man, \u00a0but then she smiled and shook her head.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cAbel Greigson -\u201d Adam nodded over to the young man, \u201cI wondered for a while if you would consider him a good catch.\u00a0 You would have returned to the Running D if you had snared him.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She frowned, \u00a0she didn\u2019t like the thought of snaring anyone – it sounded callous – she wondered if that was how Adam thought of her, hard hearted, ambitious, callous.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI wasn\u2019t out to snare anyone, Adam.\u201d she said quietly, twisting the handles of her purse between \u00a0her fingers, \u201cAnyway, it\u2019s the Box G now. \u201c<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded, smiled again, \u201cYes, it is.\u00a0 All the same -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNo, \u00a0Abels\u2019 a very kind young man, but -\u201d she paused, her heart had given a little jerk, and she smiled and looked at him \u201cHe isn\u2019t t he man I would want to marry, it would be like living with the ghost of someone I once knew a long time ago, \u00a0 I want to be back with Maurice, \u00a0I know the man I want to marry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam nodded again, without looking at her he put out his hand and folded his fingers around her hands, squeezed gently before releasing them again, \u201cI\u2019m glad to hear it, Peggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They were taking the turning to Gold Hill now, the horses were enjoying the sun on their backs every bit as much as she was with it warming her face. \u00a0 In a few hours she would be on the train and for a moment she felt a sense of sheer relief, \u00a0she would feel safe – she didn\u2019t know why she thought that but she did – she would feel safe and it would be taking her back to Maurice and to the world that she really understood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel Greigson looked over as the buggy passed him, but it was too late to salute the woman sitting so straight backed and smartly dressed beside Adam Cartwright. \u00a0 He smiled vaguely and then looked down at the letter in his hand. \u00a0 He ripped it open and took several paces to where there was a bench upon which he could sit.\u00a0 Mrs Corby nearly bumped into him and he raised his hat absent mindedly in apology, \u00a0but she was already continuing onwards, pushing the perumbulator ahead of her in which her baby son grizzled and drooled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smoothed out the paper and glanced down at the signature, nodded to himself as though it gave him confirmation of the person who had written to him and after taking a deep breath began to read<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDear Mr Greigson, Abel,<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Following my previous letter – I do apologise for not leaving a forwarding address as I was not sure whereabouts I would be at any given time.\u00a0 Forgive me also for presuming that you would be at all interested in what occurred upon my arriving at Worsop, \u00a0I have so few associates or friends with whom to correspond that I really needed to share the events of these past days with you.\u00a0 I do hope you do not mind or think I am taking liberties.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I arrived at my sister\u2019s house and found everything in turmoil as her husband had left home one morning and never returned. \u00a0 It would appear that he had decided to start a new life for himself elsewhere, \u00a0and, as it turned out, with someone new in his life. \u00a0 He had turned his back on my sister and their son, \u00a0as well as upon Alice, my daughter.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Emily- of course – blamed everything upon everyone else, but she is unhappy, heart broken, so in her own pain inflicts pain upon others. \u00a0 Alice is confused as you can imagine, she loved the man she believed to be her father so it was a blow to her young heart to have him leave in such a fashion.\u00a0 My sister, in her anger, did not hold back from revealing the sordid truth from the child.\u00a0 But, be that as it may, it worked in my favour as she was more than willing to let me take Alice from her while she clung onto her son, who is, after all, her own flesh and blood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

So now I have a daughter who does not really understand that she is my daughter.\u00a0 She is wilful and pampered, for my brother in law loved her dearly, \u00a0another cause for resentment from my sister towards her.\u00a0 I am now living in Genoa with Alice, and \u00a0in time I am hopeful that she will be able to let go of her pain and confusion, and accept me as her mother for I love her, as I have loved her dearly all these years. \u00a0 I see my dear \u00a0Paul in the way she walks, and some of her gestures, and she has \u00a0his nose\u2026ah, such fond memories she awakens within me each day.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Thank you for listening to me, dear Mr Greigson\u2026I leave you my address here at the bottom of this page.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

I wish you well for the future, may you have joy and \u00a0happiness all your days<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sincerely<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Elizabeth Godfrey\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Abel \u00a0folded the letter neatly and slipped it back into the envelope. \u00a0 This he tucked into the pocket of his jacket and when he stood up he turned his head in the direction the buggy had taken, to Golds Hill.\u00a0 He thought of Peggy Dayton, \u00a0how she had leaned against the tree in front of the ranch house, and told him about the swing that had been there, how she had sat on it and counted a hundred, and hundreds more as she waited for her father to return home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He smiled and shook his head, and then smiled again – who was to know, perhaps, just perhaps, there could be a swing there again one day, with a little girl swinging back and forth in the sun with daisies growing at her feet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter 77<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Conclusion<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The excitement about Olivia’s homecoming to the Ponderosa bordered at times on hilarity. \u00a0 One would easily have thought that she had been absent from home for at least a year instead of two weeks but nevertheless it was Hester’s fault in creating mayhem by suggesting a welcome home party.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Being stuck in a wheelchair or hobbling about on crutches had left Hester feeling bored and grumpy so suggesting a party not only lifted her spirits but gave her a cause to work on. \u00a0 Adam said that Olivia would not want a party, she would be tired and probably just want to go to bed when she got home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hoss agreed with his brother and declared, without a single blush, that of course Adam would want to get his wife to bed as soon as possible which made Adam smirk and earned Hoss a slap on the arm from his wife for making such suggestions… And in front of the children too.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia was constantly running to her father or to another adult declaring “Is Mommy really coming home today, is she? \u00a0 When will she be here?\u00a0 Is she really coming home?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nathaniel worked himself into a tizz with excitement, running around and getting in everyone’s way, laughing one minute, weeping the next and generally peeing more than usual.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Reuben had taken flowers to the bedroom and stood at the doorway to look around him at the sun bright room with the beautiful butterfly quilt that had been made for his parents on their wedding day. \u00a0 He had picked the flowers himself and now carefully placed them in a vase on the window cill. \u00a0 He looked over at Adam who had followed him upstairs<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“They won’t die before Ma gets home, will they?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam placed a hand on the boys shoulder and confirmed they would probably die as they usually needed some water to ” keep them going.” \u00a0For some reason this caused them both to laugh. \u00a0 It wasn’t really funny at all but was a pleasant shared moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hop sing and Cheng Ho Lee got into a discussion about what to cook, it had to be some of Missy Olivia’s favourite things but then Adam said it wasn’t necessary to go to such lengths as Olivia wouldn’t be able to eat it all anyway.\u00a0 This earned him a tirade of Cantonese rant from the old man which made Adam laugh because Hop Sing always \u00a0forgot Adam understood Cantonese so he stormed off to his kitchen after giving the rancher a ferocious scowl and pithy curse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mary Ann got herself involved by saying a party was a great idea and perhaps could be held at the Ponderosa’s main house so that Olivia wouldn’t have to be worried about having a mess in hers to clear up afterwards.\u00a0 Adam said that there was no need to go to any such trouble as there wasn’t going to be a party.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben strolled over and declared it would be a good opportunity to try out a new recipe he had for punch but Joe said he liked the punch they always had as it had a real good knock out effect. \u00a0 Adam protested that his wife had had enough of knock out effects to last her a life time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia ran up to leave the house with her father, she wanted to go and collect her mother from hospital, but then so did Reuben. \u00a0 Nathaniel was ruled out of the equation as he had pee’d himself again.\u00a0 Adam said all the children would have to stay home as he was taking the two seater.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia promptly burst into tears, Nathaniel did likewise although not sure why, but Hester gave her niece a cuddle and said she had to stay home to get prettied up for the party and they needed her help to decorate the room.\u00a0 Reuben snorted and muttered something about ‘girls and babies’ and got a stern look from Ben who hated seeing any of his ” girls” upset. \u00a0 Reuben said that “Sofia would only tell Ma about the party anyway, you can’t trust her to keep a secret”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia insisted with a stamp of the foot that she could keep secrets too and Adam grabbed his hat and said he was going, to which Hoss yelled “Take your time getting back, brother, after all you ain’t had Olivia on her own her two weeks.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

That earned him another slap on the arm from his wife but Adam could be heard chuckling as he left the room………..<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nurse Haslett moved the mirror closer to her patient and smiled at her.\u00a0 Over the course of the past two weeks she had grown very fond of Mrs Cartwright who was now peering into the glass and fluffing up her fringe to hide the scar on her forehead.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“It doesn’t show at all, does it?” Olivia said drawing the mirror closer so that she could see more than the fuzzy outline, she reached for her glasses and put them on carefully, still unused to this additional prop in her daily routine “That’s better…yes, it looks all right doesn’t it?”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“More than all right, Mrs Cartwright.” Nurse Haslett agreed and dimpled a smile.she stepped away from the wheelchair as firm footsteps were heard approaching them.<\/p>\n

Matron and the doctor stood side by side beside Olivia. \u00a0“All ready to leave us then, Mrs Cartwright?\u00a0 Just a final check over before we discharge you …” And the Doctor smiled and began a swift examination…her hand, now covered in a light dressing, he declared was healing very well,and the contusions on her skull also.\u00a0 He checked the scars and nodded agreeing with Matron that they would soon fade.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia knew all about scars, she could have written a book about them as she mentally catalogued those on her husbands body.\u00a0 The Doctor declared her discharged and patted her absent mindedly on the shoulder before leaving the ward.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia buttoned up her Spencer jacket and then set her straw bonnet with the silk forget me nots and violets on the brim onto her head.\u00a0 It was a pretty little bonnet, one of her favourites.\u00a0 Adam had delivered the clothes the previous evening and she had been more than happy at seeing he had brought along the bonnet.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Nurse Hazlett nodded and then took the handles of the wheelchair to take Olivia from the ward to where her husband would be waiting to take her home.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Home!\u00a0 Olivia felt a tingle of relief and pleasure trickle through her.\u00a0 No one realises how precious were the moments spent at home until it is no longer there to enjoy.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam was standing in reception twisting his hat round and round; he felt like a teenage boy again, his heart jigging with the thrill of seeing her with the knowledge that she was coming home.\u00a0 He turned upon recognising the squeak of the wheels as the Nurse brought Olivia from the elevator and pushed her towards the man waiting for her so anxiously.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Adam carried his wife to the waiting surrey and gently settled her down on the comfortably padded seat, then smiled up at her, cheeks dimpling and eyes twinkling.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cReady for home, sweetheart?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes, yes I am.\u201d and she leaned down to kiss him, almost shyly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He nodded, slipped his hat on and with a grin made his way to the other side of the surrey, clambered up to take his seat and then settled in beside her. \u00a0\u201cHome it is then,\u201d he said and looked at her, drank in the sight of her and nodded, \u201cYou look beautiful.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She shook her head and laughed, slipped her arm through his and then with a flick of the reins the horses stepped forward into a smart trot. \u00a0 They passed Miss Tyndale who waved and smiled at them, receiving a smile and wave in return. \u00a0 Roy Coffee paused outside his house and waved, a big grin on his face and the sun glinting from his glasses as he watched the couple\u2019s surrey weave it\u2019s way through the traffic.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They left the town behind them and the horses quickened their pace as though they knew that soon they would be comfortable and back in their stalls.\u00a0 Dust billowed from the dry road, and the burgeoning green of the trees provided shadow as they made their way along the hard packed road.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They passed the site of the last resting place of the Spanish soldiers and where Peggy had made her final assessments before she got carried away with the latest Cause.\u00a0 Onwards with the sun warming their faces with a soft sun kissed breeze.\u00a0 Olivia sighed happily, and leaned her head upon his shoulder and closed her eyes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She could smell the manly smell about him despite his having used some cologne before coming to collect her.\u00a0 It smelt musky, sensual and she sighed again.\u00a0 The warmth of his body against hers reminded her of the muscle that existed, and with each movement he made she could feel them flex, tauten and relax.\u00a0 She slowly slipped her hand over his fingers and felt them beneath hers, the strength of them, the gentleness of them.\u00a0 She wondered what he was thinking as they drove along the soft thud of the horse\u2019s hooves dull upon the roadway.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He was whistling a tune beneath his breath, and every so often would look down at her, and smile before returning his attention to the road.\u00a0 Through the avenue of trees at which years before Will and Laura had been riding before stopping to sit by the river and admit the love they had for one another.\u00a0 Adam glanced over at the rocks where he had that more recent confrontation with Peggy and wondered if Maurice really knew what he was taking on by marrying her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He avoided the turning that would have taken them home, instead he sent the horses onto the meadow where the wheels crushed down and bent over the gaudy coloured spring flowers that nestled among the grasses. \u00a0 He drove so that the sound of the grass and the flowers springing up behind them was a gentle swish-swish-swish.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

He stopped by the old tree under which they had often gathered as a family, a favourite and beautiful view for them all.\u00a0 There was a hollow between the big roots and here he carried her and set her down as though she were as fragile as the most slender glass.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She reached up with her good hand and touched his face, smiled, half closed her eyes and then raised her face to be kissed. \u00a0 His hand brushed away her hat, gently removed the glasses and folded them away, his hand caressed her face, his lips kissed her lips, her nose, her throat and the smooth skin where the hollow of her throat invited his lips and the beat of her pulse quickened to his touch.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Her jacket was swiftly removed, as was her blouse, flung over to join with his shirt, and the sun shone down and gently \u00a0bathed them with soft golden sun beams as two became one and for an instant of time the world was forgotten in a kaleidoscope of colour and feeling and magic.<\/p>\n

\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026\u2026.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia fidgeted and wished her dress was not too tight.\u00a0 She had grown since she had last worn it and wondered if she should ask to go home and wear something different.\u00a0 She looked around her, and watched as Marcy balanced on the top of a step ladder to fix another streamer to the wall. \u00a0 Mary Ann came into the room balancing glasses on a tray which she carried over to the table where Ben was adding something from a bottle into the glass bowl that Sofia knew she was not to even dip her finger into for \u00a0a lick.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Bridie placed a magnificent chocolate cake in the centre of the table and Sofia wondered if it was possible for anything to look more delicious. \u00a0 She \u00a0grabbed Bridie by the hand and smiled up at her, just hoping that this dear friend would remember to give her the biggest slice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ben looked up and winked over at her, so she smiled and was going to run over to him when Hester called her over and asked her to go and find Hope. \u00a0 The table was groaning with food, Sofia had heard \u00a0that expression said and now paused a the table for a moment to listen but if it was groaning it was impossible to hear above the noise of people talking, children shouting and yelling and the laughter that was going on.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Luke and Joe were talking about who knew what in the corner of one room, Joe had a bottle of something under his arm which was supposed to be going into the glass bowl with all the other alcohol. \u00a0 Reuben was helping Hoss to move furniture around, making sure no one got hurt or bumped into in the process.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Candy and Ann arrived with the children, and Rosie immediately ran over to Sofia and grabbed her hand, \u00a0David ran off to find Daniel and before long the room was almost empty of children as they ran out to play in the yard. \u00a0 Hester watched for a moment as the boys chased one another around, yelling and whooping, while the girls clambered to the top of the corral fence and sat on the top bar looking like a row of plump little pigeons.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

There was Rosie, and Sofia, and then Hannah and Hope.\u00a0 All sitting there basking in the sunshine, their hair shining, \u00a0their dresses smooth and neat over their stockinged legs.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Samuel, Nathaniel. Erik and Constance sat together playing quietly in a corner, they had exhausted themselves over the hours of preparation, always seeming to be in the way and being moved about from one place to another.\u00a0 Now they were settled and happily playing with little James and Anna, the twin children of Marcy and Luke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hester leaned back and sighed, releasing her breath and realising that she could quite willingly now go to bed. \u00a0 Hoss came and took hold of her hand, kissed her cheek and grinned. \u00a0 Sofia ran in \u201cIs Mommy really coming home?\u00a0 Is she?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The grandfather clock ticked the hour, chimed and hic-coughed its way through the hours.\u00a0 Ben emptied another bottle into the punch bowl and then gave it a good stir, \u00a0then took a sip.\u00a0 It made him cough and his eyes watered, \u00a0Sofia wondered if he was crying and was going to ask when Joe said something that made everyone laugh – something about not lighting any matches near the punch bowl.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

She gave up.\u00a0 Adults were very strange at times.\u00a0 She ran back outside and there, just as she had stepped onto the porch, there came Daddy and Mommy, \u00a0the surrey turned into the yard and with a shriek Sofia ran towards them.\u00a0 Adam clambered down and caught her, swung her in the air and onto Olivia\u2019s lap.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMommy, \u00a0you\u2019re home\u2026really really home.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Olivia laughed, nodded, kissed her little girl \u201cYes, darling, I\u2019m home\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sofia hugged her as tightly as she could, from the corner of her eye she could see Reuben and Nathaniel running out, hand in hand, to greet her. Adam grabbed Nathaniel and swung him into the air to bring him over to his mother with Reuben running beside them.\u00a0 She turned to gaze up at Olivia, her eyes big and shining and then in a very loud whisper said \u201cOh Mommy, you\u2019ll never guess what – Aunty Hester and everyone -\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSofia!\u201d Reuben cried<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c – are having a welcome home party, just for you -\u201d she sighed and rested her cheek upon Olivia\u2019s chest, and smiled contentedly.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mission accomplished – so what more is there to say now but farewell, family, and God speed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The End<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Shetland Islands<\/p>\n

November 11th 2018<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tags:\u00a0 Peggy Dayton<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

<\/g><\/svg><\/i> \"Loading\"<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Summary:\u00a0\u00a0Emancipation for Women and the Vote become a big issue when Peggy Dayton visits the Ponderosa. The result of her visit has long lasting repercussions in Virgina City and the Cartwright families.\u00a0
\nRating: PG 220,190 words
\nHome is the Sailor Series, links to all stories included within<\/p>\n

Rating:\u00a0 T\u00a0 \u00a0WC:\u00a0 219,977<\/p>\n

Home is the Sailor Series, links to all stories of this series included.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":145,"featured_media":15258,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"template-full-width-post.php","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[7,23],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-18924","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-a-u","category-drama","wpcat-7-id","wpcat-23-id"],"a3_pvc":{"activated":true,"total_views":4673,"today_views":0},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/05\/Adam-traurig.jpg?fit=768%2C576&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":36440,"url":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=36440","url_meta":{"origin":18924,"position":0},"title":"The Maiden With the Chestnut Hair (by Annie K Cowgirl)","author":"Annie K Cowgirl","date":"May 21, 2021","format":false,"excerpt":"Summary: The captain's daughter as seen through the eyes of a young, handsome sailor. 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