Like An Eagle 

Chapter Five 

The Sherman household had risen with the dawn and Daisy, who had been up well before anyone, insisted they all have a full breakfast before they started their day.  Then while Jess and Slim groomed the horses and hitched up the team to the wagon, James and Marie Rose, with a little help from Mike, checked and re-checked the wagon’s cargo. 

Slim, encouraged by Jess, had tried taking a peek under the tarpaulin lashed across the back of the wagon, but the jumble of wood and material they could see meant little to either man. Slim slapped Jess gently on his shoulder. “Well, reckon you’ll find out what its all about soon enough, Pard.”  

As Jess returned from the barn with Traveller, Daisy appeared with a picnic basket packed to the brim with chicken and pies. James climbed up onto the wagon seat and reaching behind it he placed the basket securely under the seat. “Thank you, Daisy. That basket feels heavy. You must have baked enough to feed an army.” 

“It’s just a little food to help you out. Jess’ trail cooking doesn’t exactly count as appetising.” 

“Hey, Slim’s never complained about it.” Jess’ face wore a pained expression. 

“That’s cause I was still trying’ to chew my way through it,” laughed Slim. “I hope you’ve left some of that good cooking’ for Mike and me, Daisy.” 

“Now don’t you worry, Slim, there’s plenty left, and James, don’t you let Jess here eat all of that chicken. You make sure that you and Marie Rose get your fair share.” 

Jess, now mounted on Traveller, turned a shocked frown towards Slim, but before he could utter a word, Slim was helping the young girl onto the wagon seat. “There you go. Now you take care of Jess and your father for me won’t you?” 

Wheeling his horse back to face his partner, Jess kept his voice calm, even though the sparks in his eyes told Slim he was far from calm at that moment. The only thing Slim couldn’t figure out was whether Jess was angry or frightened or both. 

“Hang on, Slim I thought you said this trip was just James. It ain’t safe for a little girl out there,” Jess bluffed. 

James answered for Slim. “I’m afraid this is my decision, Jess. I need Marie Rose to help me with the field tests.” 

Jess’ blue eyes sparked fire as he looked from Slim to James and back again. His cheeks burned red with controlled anger. “It ain’t that long ago that we had Indians off the reservation raiding the ranches further out. We would be a prime target for them” he didn’t directly say that Marie Rose, as a young female could be taken for trade or worse, but Slim knew what he meant when his gaze flicked in her direction. 

“That was months ago, Jess. The ones concerned were rounded up and either sent back to the reservation or jailed at Fort Wellman. It’s about as safe out there as it’s ever going to get, and besides, I’ve been through this conversation several times already with the good Doctor here. He is adamant he needs Marie Rose along.” 

The glare the younger man threw at Slim spoke volumes. It was now obvious to him that Slim had neatly tricked him into this, and retribution would be swift and sure when he got back. 

Desperately, Jess tried one last gambit. “Look, I’m with you. I can help with these tests of yours. Just tell me what’s needed and I’ll do it. I may not be Marie Rose, but I ain’t stupid.” 

“I’m sure you would be more than capable, Jess, but you don’t understand. Some of the equipment has been constructed for someone of Marie Rose’s size and weight. There isn’t the time to redesign it now, and besides, she has trained and practised for a long time before coming here for this. While I have no doubt you could learn as well, it would take weeks. No, there is no choice. Marie Rose and I have talked this through, and she is happy to come. It’s our decision, so I’m sorry, while I appreciate your concern; Marie Rose is coming with us.” 

Jess set his jaw in what Slim recognised as his stubborn tilt and said tightly, “And what if I refuse to guide you. I’m not prepared to risk her even if you are.” 

“JESS!” Daisy’s anxiety showed in her voice, and then she controlled herself and spoke more quietly. “I don’t like this any more than you do, But James has the right to decide what his daughter should do.” Then she turned to James. “Are you absolutely certain about this?” 

 “Jess, Daisy, I love Marie Rose. I wouldn’t risk her unless she was vital to the completion of my work. I have no choice in setting the test up in the mountains and years of work have gone into this. If the test doesn’t take place, the army will withdraw their support. Besides, the General at the fort assures me the Indian uprising is settled and there is no risk now. Jess, I would be a lot happier if you came along, but make no mistake, with or without you, Marie Rose and I will be heading out.” 

With a look of appeal Jess glanced at his partner. Slim shook his head, “If I go, Jess you’ll have to deal with the stage line accountant. It’s up to you, but if you won’t act as guide, I will, cause I can’t let them go out there alone.” Despite now feeling somewhat guilty over tricking Jess into accepting the job, he recognised that is was too late to change the plans now. More quietly, he added for Jess’ ears alone, “Besides, Pard, if you do run in to any trouble out there, you’re the better man with the gun.” 

Fortunately, despite his own genuine anxieties and annoyance at being so neatly out manoeuvred, Jess realised this also. Biting his lower lip, he gave a sharp nod of acquiescence. “Alright I’ll do it, but don’t expect me to be happy about it. Let’s go,” he ordered more sharply than he intended. Reining his horse around he urged it forward into a gentle trot, not looking back to say his farewells or check if the loaded wagon was following.

Slim reached up and shook James’ hand, then he smiled at Marie Rose. “Don’t worry any, Jess has a quick temper, but he ain’t stupid and he doesn’t stay riled for long, you’ll see. Give him a couple of miles and he’ll be back to his usual friendly self.” 

“I’m sure everything will be fine. I don’t blame Jess, he does have a point, and I’m sure those times he has been caught up in some of Marie Rose’s escapades haven’t helped. Well, we’ll see you all in a week’s time, hopefully with some good news.” James smiled his farewell and, clicking the wagon’s reins, he urged the team forward to follow Jess, with Marie Rose waving enthusiastically at Slim, Daisy and Mike, until they were out of sight round the bend in the road. 

In fact, apart from issuing curt directions, Jess spoke barely more than ten words to James and his daughter all morning. Oh, he did his job, and did it well, leading them up towards the foothills and the mountain passes by the best and safest routes, but he stubbornly maintained his distance from them, and spoke only when the need arose. 

In truth, his temper did settle after only the first hour on the trail, as the peaceful countryside soothed his rattled nerves and allowed him to think more clearly. He accepted that he had allowed himself to be tricked into the job, but heck, he had done similar and worse to Slim on occasion. He also accepted that Slim was right about him being more adept with a six gun and therefore more able to protect the small party should the need arise, and if the army was to be believed there shouldn’t be a problem anyway. 

Yet still he felt uneasy about this trip. He knew part of his initial reaction was a dislike, or if he was totally honest, a fear, of being at the mercy of an infatuated Marie Rose for a week or more. He realised he had been out of order that morning and he should have apologised to James, but, embarrassed and more than a little bit stubborn, he steadfastly avoided both of them. 

As the sun past the high point of noon and began to slip into afternoon, James called out to Jess. “Mister Harper, don’t you think we should be stopping for a somewhat late midday break? I’m afraid we Easterners aren’t as robust as you.” 

Guiltily, Jess pulled his horse to a stop. He hadn’t meant to keep riding through the whole day, but he had been so wrapped up in his own thoughts he had indeed lost track of time. Pushing his hat back on his head, he squinted up at the sun, and then looked around. He recognised where they were and knew that just up ahead was a small watering hole, sheltered by some trees. Even in the hottest of summers the oasis had managed to retain some water. 

Hell, how could he be so thoughtless? He was feeling the stresses of the day himself, so how did James and Marie Rose feel. Jess nodded and clearing his throat, he finally broke his sullen silence. “Sorry,” he said, more gruffly than he intended. “There’s a waterhole up ahead. It’ll be a good place to stop. We’ve made good time; perhaps you’d like to make camp for the night.” He offered this by way of a gesture of apology. 

Leaning across to her father, Marie Rose spoke softly. Her father smiled and nodded his agreement. “Thank you for the offer, but just a half hour to stretch our legs and freshen up is all we need. We are as eager as you appear to be to get there, get the job done and get back.” 

‘Was his unease at the situation that obvious?’ Jess thought. Marie Rose may have caused him a few embarrassing moments, but nothing had been hurt except his pride and that only slightly. Heck, he’d been responsible for a lot worse pranks on Slim and Jonesy in the past. ‘Time to lighten up’ he told himself. From now on in he’d make an effort to be more sociable. He actually liked James and his daughter, so perhaps he had been allowing himself to get all worked up over nothing. 

Once they reached the watering hole Jess did his best to start patching up the hurt feelings of his two companions. He went out of his way to set up a comfy camp, boiling the water for coffee and cooking some beans to go with the fried chicken Daisy had packed in their ample supplies. As they ate, he made a point of indulging in easy conversation, but he noticed that Marie Rose was still quiet and far from her usual energetic self and refused to be drawn into the conversation. 

As they finished, James stood, ready to pack up and move on. Jess, recognising he was the main cause for the unease he could feel all around him, he swallowed his pride and spoke up. “Look, Doc, I reckon I was out of order back there. Ain’t any of my business what you and your daughter choose to do?” Jess kept his eyes fixed on the ground; his thick lashes veiling his eyes. “I’d understand if’n ya don’t cotton to me bein’ your guide, but as Slim said, there ain’t much option right now. I’m willin’ to try and make things a mite easier here, cause it’s obvious Marie Rose ain’t feelin’ too happy with this bad feelin’ in the air.” 

A hand was thrust into Jess’ line of vision. “All right, Jess. I guess I was being a little defensive too. Marie Rose is my life and I wouldn’t take risks with her unless there was no alternative. But you know she has put as much into this project as I have. She deserves to see it completed.” 

Lifting his head up, Jess found himself looking directly into James’ smiling face. He took the pro-offered hand and found his own grasped firmly and shook vigorously. James continued to speak. “Right, now that’s settled, I think we owe you an apology to.” 

“Huh?” Jess was confused, “How come?” 

“It must have been a little rough on you these past weeks. Marie Rose’s little experiments just seemed to seek you out. If the truth were known, I think some of those accidents were more than accidental.” 

“They were?” Jess asked, now beginning to feel a little vindicated in some of his anger. 

“Don’t worry. I’ve had a little talk with her. I think she has a little crush on you, and just wanted to gain your attention.” 

Jess felt his cheeks burning. This conversation was becoming a little embarrassing.

“It don’t matter none now, best forget it,” he managed to stammer out despite the way his mouth had gone dry. 

Unfortunately James seemed oblivious to Jess’ discomfort. “I promise you there will be no more little episodes, but I do think she should apologise for all the embarrassments she caused you.” 

‘Yeah, just like her father I guess’ thought Jess. “Look, I think she’s got the point. Maybe we should forget it now.” Jess stated hopefully. Unfortunately that was not to be. Almost as if on cue, Marie Rose joined them. 

“Are we packing to move on now?” she addressed her father, keeping her eyes averted from Jess. 

James shook his head, “Not yet,” he said, and then continued quickly before she could move off again. “I believe you had something to say to Jess here.” 

Marie Rose felt her cheeks begin to flush. At that moment Jess felt very sorry for the self-conscious girl. He knew exactly how she felt. “Look, it ain’t important. I’ve got to take--,” he was cut of before he could make his excuse for a quick get away. 

He fidgeted from foot to foot, fighting the urge to run. Right at that moment he wanted to strangle James for putting him in this situation. He loved kids, but Marie Rose, just at the start of becoming a woman was something Jess felt ill equipped to deal with. 

“I suppose so,” uttered the small quiet voice. She kept her head down, her eyes fixed firmly on the ground. “I’m sorry, Jess. I never meant to embarrass or hurt you. I’m sorry too for being an inconvenience on this trip.” A small catch could be heard in her soft voice. 

“I never said that,” Jess started to reply, wishing the ground would open up and swallow him right then and there. “I was just worried about you, that’s all.” 

“Then you don’t mind me being here with you?” The youngster still had her eyes fixed downwards but Jess was aware something had changed. He just wasn’t quite sure what. 

“Nope. I don’t mind one bit. But,” he tried to keep his voice stern, “no more experiments or tricks.” 

“I promise, Jess.” Then she lifted her face and he saw the laughter and mischief dancing in her eyes. “But only a few of them were meant to catch you out, most of them were just accidents. Though you did look really funny when the flour sack hit you, you know.” 

Briefly the anger rose again, and then a rumble of laughter started down in his chest, and Jess’ face broke into a big smile as his deep laughter filled the air. “Reckon I did look kinda funny at that. You sure Slim didn’t get you to set me up.”

Marie Rose looked momentarily startled, and then her own laughter mingled with Jess’. James looked on and felt the earlier tension drain away as the casual friendship re-established itself. 

The happier atmosphere allowed all of them to relax and when Jess again suggested that maybe they could set up camp for the night, this time James agreed readily. While the Doctor settled down to checking and re-checking the seemingly endless pages of drawings and calculations, Marie Rose tagged along with Jess watching him as he set up the rudiments of a safe night camp. 

She seemed interested and eager to learn just what was required to survive on the trail out West. Jess felt uncomfortable at first, remembering what her father had said about her having a crush on him, but as she asked more questions, he found himself able to regard her as another Mike. A young child eager to learn and help, instead of the two-headed monster he had brought to life in his harassed mind. 

By the time Jess was ready to prepare the evening meal she had proven herself to be a quick learner and a willing helper. She had even managed to teach Jess something new about surviving on the trail. They had come across a rotting log and Marie Rose had lifted it to find some fungus growing beneath it. 

She had exclaimed with delight and started picking some. “This will be wonderful in with the remains of the chicken Daisy sent with us.” 

“They’ll likely as not poison us, Marie Rose. Best leave them be.” Jess had prompted quickly, but the young girl had continued to pick them and hold them in the hollow of her skirt as she lifted the hem with her free hand. 

“It’s all right, Jess. When I used to wait for my father to finish work at the university, I started reading the books that were in the library. I read quite a few on Botany and Plants and Fungi. I sort of got real interested in them. These are Strop aria rugosoannulata. They are certainly not poisonous.” She looked expectantly at Jess, waiting for him to help. 

“They’re what?” he asked, not even attempting to get his tongue around the strange name she had used. Jess had eaten many strange things when forced to live off the land in difficult times, he’d even made a meal of rattlesnake on occasion, but he’d never resorted to fungus. Once when he was a child, he’d heard of a family that had been real sick, one of the young ones actually dying, and he’d heard his mother say to a neighbour that they’d eaten some type of fungus by mistake. The memory had stayed with him and he’d studiously avoided any sort of fungus as a food supply, no matter how hungry he was. 

“Oh, sorry. That’s their Latin name. You’d know them as wine cap edible mushrooms. Honestly, they are very tasty and very safe,” she tried to re-assure him. 

Still looking sceptical, Jess decided that he’d best try and help, since he was supposed to be making an effort to re-build the child’s confidence in him. “All right,” he bent to pull up the rest, “but let’s not put them straight in the pot, wait until I’ve checked that your father’s happy to eat them.” What he meant was that he wanted a second opinion before risking any of them eating, but Marie Rose seemed quiet happy with this. 

“That’s fine, Jess,” she smiled at him. “Father loves mushrooms.” 

Later, when they had returned to camp, Jess had told Marie Rose to go wash her find. Once she was out of earshot he produced one of the mushrooms for James to inspect. “Marie Rose picked these. I didn’t want to hurt her feelings again, but she’s planning on adding them to the chicken stew.” 

Smacking his lips in appreciation, James had said,” Oh, wonderful, they are quite rare, but very tasty.” 

“You mean we can eat them?” Jess sounded incredulous. 

“Oh, yes. We most certainly can. I think you’ll find them very tasty, especially with chicken. You look concerned, Jess. Why?” James waited patiently for a reply. 

“I always thought these things could kill you,” Jess finally stated. 

“You’re quite right. Some of the varieties are deadly. You have to be very careful which you eat and even when in their growth you eat them. If Marie Rose says they are edible, then they will be.” 

“I guess you’ve taught her a lot since her mother wasn’t around to raise her.” The young rancher still wasn’t sure. He didn’t want to risk any of them falling sick this far from town. 

“Quite the contrary,” James laughed. “Marie Rose is an accomplished mycologist. She has taught me what little I know.” 

Uncertain just what it was James had just called his daughter, but hoping that it meant she knew what she was talking about when it came mushrooms, Jess gave in. But he acknowledged to himself that Marie Rose was in some ways more mature than the average child and he would at least pay some attention to what she said in future. 

Dropping down next to James, Jess watched as the young girl prepared her find. James lapsed into silence and Jess leant back against the still warm rocks and idly chewed on a piece of long grass he’d plucked. After a few minutes Jess turned towards him, wondering just what plans he was mulling over now. 

Feeling the younger man’s eyes on him James spoke. “How long before we reach the high passes?” 

Jess squinted his eyes against the evening sun he followed the doctor’s gaze towards the distant peaks. High above him he could see the distant speck of an eagle as it swept majestically down towards the foothills searching for prey. 

“On horse back alone we could take the faster trail, but with the wagon I’m afraid we’ll have to take the longest route, through the passes and then crossing back and forth to climb up towards the peaks. It’s an old mining road and hasn’t been used regular for a year, but it was still passable by wagon a few months ago. Ain’t no reason to think otherwise now. We’ll need to go slow and careful towards the end though, so I reckon it’s gonna take us three maybe four days.” 

A soft sigh escaped James before he spoke again. After so many years of planning and developing he was eager now to reach his goal. “That long,” he said, as a statement rather than a question. Again his eyes followed the eagle as it swept lower towards them. Now they could make out the white tipped span of its wings as the large hunter rode the thermals in slow circles, its keen eyes scanning the lower cliffs and meadows.  

“I don’t suppose it would take that majestic creature more than a few hours to go from the highest mountain top down towards Laramie. I sometimes try to imagine what it would be like to see the world from an eagle’s vantage point” As he spoke, James waved his arm vaguely in the direction of the circling eagle. 

Jess’ life had been harsh, until he had met Slim. He had never allowed himself to dream, or indulge his imagination in flights of fancy and games of ‘what if’, so now he answered James in a serious manner, a simple statement of fact. “As the crow flies, it’s probably only three, four hours, but we ain’t crows so I guess we go the long route.” 

Not to have his musings so quickly dismissed, James threw Jess a sideways glance, taking in the relaxed features and closed eyes as Jess allowed himself to rest a minute and let go the tensions of the day. “Don’t you ever dream, Jess. Don’t you ever try to imagine what it would be like to be like that eagle? I do,” James stated simply. “I try to think how it must feel when the wind lifts and buffets you up there. An eagle seems to be able to see its prey from a great distance and from that high up it must see us as insignificant specs down in the dust. It doesn’t have to go days out of its way to avoid obstacles like rivers and mountains. It simply flies over them. Yes,” James concluded, “I often wonder what it would feel like to be like an eagle.” 

Sensing the enthusiasm in the doctor’s voice, Jess opened his eyes and looked across at him. A soft snort of laughter escaped him as he spoke. “Doc, I ain’t got much of an imagination I guess, or very little time to spare for day dreaming. But I do know this, if God had meant us to fly, he’d have given us wings. I reckon I’d rather keep my feet firmly on the ground, ‘ceptin when I’m riding on four legs of course.” 

James sat up and stared at Jess. “You know, life can get awful dull without a dream, a goal to aim for.” He said quietly, unable to comprehend the sort of life experiences a person must have had that would take away their ability to imagine and dream.  “Some of the greatest advances in history have happened because someone dared to imagine them possible.” 

Raising himself up on his elbows, Jess looked James squarely in the eyes.

“I didn’t say I don’t have my plans, my goals in life, Doc. But let’s just say mine are a little more realistic.”

Arching his eyebrows in question, James responded, “Like what?” 

Jess didn’t respond instantly, taking his time to find the words that would best express his feelings. When he finally did speak, James instantly picked up on the emotional charge in the young rancher’s voice.  “Reckon for a long time after I lost my family, I jest wanted to feel nothing’, to stop caring for anyone, so I wouldn’t have to feel that pain again.” 

Jess stopped then, hesitating to say more. He liked James, but Jess was a very private man when it came to his personal life. It had taken him a long time to open up to Slim, and then only slowly, letting his memories and pain out a drop at a time, like the life blood they were to him. 

Recognising this, James spoke again. “I guess I can relate to that. When my wife died, I fell apart, but I had a young daughter to care for, and no one else to do it. At first I was just going from day to day, not allowing myself to feel love or give it. But bit-by-bit, I started to live again. It’s kind of hard not to when a young child depends on you, and keeps loving you unconditionally.” What James really wanted to ask was how Jess’ family had died, and what had happened to him afterwards, but he decided not to push the subject. 

It was a good job he didn’t because Jess would have slammed the conversational doors shut right there and then. Even Slim, the man he regarded as a brother, had not been told the gruesome details of the young Jess’ life after his family had been burned to death. The hurt was still too near the surface and it would be a long time, if ever, before Jess would be able to talk about it. 

Swallowing hard, Jess continued, keeping his eyes fixed on the eagle far above.

“Anyways, I sort of drifted into Slim’s life and that’s when I started to allow myself to dream, to hope a little again. Guess the need, the dream had always been there. It took one Slim Sherman and his brother Andy to make me recognise it.” 

Again Jess’ voice trailed away into silence, but just as James thought that the conversation was ended Jess gave a soft sigh and spoke again. “I reckon my dream found me before I even realised I had one. I’ve a family and a home now, a place I belong and people who care about whether I come back or not. I have my dream, now all I gotta do now is hold onto it real tight.” 

“It’s a lucky man that recognises when he has the most important thing he could ever hope to have. I guess maybe you do have you’re dream, Jess and don’t you let no one take it from you.” James eyes turned to Marie Rose as she prepared the mushrooms. He understood just how important it was to have a home and someone who cared and he meant every word he had said to Jess. 

Jess gave a barely perceptible nod and stood to move away. James had to strain to hear the words Jess said as he walked of. “Reckon I’ve got everything I’ve ever dreamed of, and I’d die to protect it if I had to.”

Chapter Six      

The weather stayed with the trio as, over the next two days, they made their way up towards the higher peaks. An easy, confident friendship developed between the three as they learned to trust each other. 

Jess had been pleasantly surprised at the taste of the stew Marie Rose had produced, and even happier when his health had remained intact and his dinner had stayed in his stomach. He was impressed enough to compliment the young girl and to ask her to show him a little of her knowledge about the fungus in the area. 

Still caught up in her infatuation for the heroic figure she had developed in her mind, she spent more and more time riding with the handsome man close by. 

This time Jess didn’t find it objectionable, allowing himself to fall easily into the role of big brother, as he did with Mike. He spent their time together pointing out things of interest in the area, identifying animal tracks and the natural hazards that abounded and lay in wait for the tenderfoot. 

For her own part, Marie Rose reciprocated, telling Jess about her interest in fungi and weaving stories about her travels with her father. Jess didn’t mind, it helped to pass the time, and in fact he surprised himself, as he found himself actually interested and learning from what she had to say. Whenever the child identified a fungus they found, or pointed out places where they might grow, he found himself asking questions about them. Since tasting those Marie Rose had added to the stew, he found he actually liked them.    

Over the next few days they travelled on like this, relaxing in the beauty of their surroundings and the easy company. Every night once camp had been set up, James would pour over the figures he’d been busy scribbling down during the day, or working with the materials stored in the wagon bed. Marie Rose would share her time between helping her father with his work and helping Jess set up the camp. The rancher and the young girl seemed to get enjoyment from each other’s company now that they had an unspoken agreement about respecting each other’s feelings. 

The mounting excitement in James and his daughter was a palpable thing, as each day brought them closer to their destination. 

Back at the ranch, life was too busy for the occupants to sit and worry about how Jess and his charges were fairing. Slim was trying to prepare the books for the audit and to keep the routine jobs of the ranch under control. Mike did his best to help, but he was; after all, only a child and his schoolwork must take priority over ranch work. 

One of their neighbours dropped by to help with the stage when it arrived and was also keeping an eye on the Sherman cattle that were in the higher summer pastures, since his own were close by. Slim had had cause, more than once, to be grateful for the network of support the ranchers around Laramie gave to each other at such times. No money was ever exchanged, just an unwritten agreement that such favours would be returned when needed.Daisy missed the mischief and company of her wilder ‘son’, but she busied herself with the house and cooking, giving time to making preserves from the summer’s bounty that would help see them through the winter. It was obvious that Mike missed his playmate,  but it was even more obvious he missed his big brother, who in many ways was as big a child as Mike at times, and not adverse to joining Mike in some of his more mischievous adventures. 

But it was at night, Daisy had noted, that Slim seemed to miss his best friend and partner most of all. He was unable to settle after supper into his comfortable chair on the porch, unable to settle without the comforting presence of Jess in the chair next to him, missing their long relaxed chats that the end of the day brought. Keeping busy seemed the way they all had decided to cope with Jess’ absence. 

Still, as Daisy reminded, Mike and Slim and herself for that matter, Jess wasn’t off doing anything reckless. He would be perfectly safe and back in the loving bosom of his family within a week or so. That thought had settled their minds and they had carried on with their lives, knowing that soon the family would be complete again. 

That was until Mort had come by just two days after Jess had departed, accompanied by an army major. Slim had been mucking out the barn when he heard the sound of the horses coming into the yard. Careful as ever, he had strapped on his gun belt before he had gone out to greet the new arrivals. 

He was surprised to see it was the Sheriff, but even more surprised to see that he was accompanied by the military. “Howdy, Mort, Major.” Slim inclined his head slightly at the new man, recognising the insignia from his army days. “Something I can do for you?” 

Mort looked worried, and Slim felt a growing sense of unease, but he waited for Mort to speak. “Are the others around?” Mort eventually asked after he had dismounted. 

“Daisy and Mike are inside,” Slim answered easily, “Care to come in for some coffee?” he offered. 

“We’d like to, Slim but first I think we need to talk, and I don’t want to worry the others.” Corey turned to the man beside him. “This is Major Sterling from Fort Gentry. Major, this is Slim Sherman, he owns this ranch with his partner Jess Harper” The Sheriff looked around, “Say, where is Jess, off avoiding work as usual?” 

Despite his growing unease, Slim joined in the jest, “Yep, he got the easy job as usual. He’s escorting the Doctor and his daughter on a field trip. Though knowing Marie Rose, Jess may not agree he’s got off lightly.” 

Slim visibly flinched as he saw the worry flare in Mort’s eyes and observed the looks exchanged between the two men. 

“We need to talk, Slim. We’ve got trouble, and Jess may have more.” Mort sounded really worried now. 

“Spit it out, Mort. What’s going on?” Slim stepped toward them, barely able to control his concern. 

Uncomfortable with what he had to say next, Mort shifted from foot to foot before finally forcing out the bad news he wished he didn’t have to deliver. “Major Sterling is here to warn the ranchers. We got Indian trouble, Slim. Some of the young bucks got restless and jumped the reservation. The army thinks they are headed this way.” 

Slims eyebrows arched and he glanced hastily towards the house, his first concern being for Daisy and Mike. “They hit anywhere yet?” 

“A few spreads between here and the fort have had horses and cattle taken, but no-ones been hurt. It doesn’t seem like they’re out for blood, just horses and cattle for food.” This time it was the Major who spoke. “Seems that the Indian agent had been holding back on the good beef and lining his own pocket. We think they are heading across the foothills into the mountains. Probably trying to getting enough stock together to winter in the hills before moving farther west.” 

 “A few of the ranchers towards the foothills have moved their families into town, just in case,” Mort supplied. “But the army feels the renegades are probably already in the foothills by now.” 

Grateful for small mercies, Slim’s frown relaxed a little. “You reckon it’s safe for Daisy and Mike to stay here?” 

“Shouldn’t be a problem, Slim.  It was because I knew of the doctor’s intention to head up unto the hills that I came out mainly. Seems we’re too late.” That simple statement of fact caused the frown to harden onto Slim’s features again. 

“Maybe I should send them into town and then, with them safe, I can head up after Jess and the others.” Slim made to move towards the house, but Mort’s hand snatched at his sleeve, pulling him back. 

“You’ve got the ranch and the relay station to run, Slim. Besides, one man ain’t gonna be much use.” 

“I can’t abandon Jess and the others. They won’t have any idea of the danger,” Slim protested. 

“Whoa now, son,” Mort’s voice, though sounding concerned, was commanding.       “You won’t do them much good heading off half cocked. Besides you’ve got the ranch and the others to take care of before you can do anything. Those Indians may be well into the foothills by now, but there ain’t no guarantee they won’t double back.” 

Slim’s fingers moved agitatedly on the butt of his gun and his frown deepened. “You can’t expect me to wait here and do nothing. This is Jess’ life we’re talking about, not to mention James and his daughter.” 

 “You think I don’t know that. Simmer down and hear what the major has to say. After that, if you still want to head out, then I won’t try to stop you.”

Slim glowered at the two men in front of him, but stayed in control enough to say, “Go ahead, say what ya have to.” 

Appreciative of the concern the young rancher had for his friend, the major went on to describe the situation as briefly as possible. “So you see, Mister Sherman, as soon as I leave here I’ll rejoin my troops. We’ll be heading straight up towards the mountains. I’ve already got scouts out picking up their trail. We should find them and round them up long before they could come across your friend and his party.” 

Torn between the need to stay and protect Daisy and Mike, and wanting to find his friend, his best friend; and make sure he was safe, Slim looked from one to the other uncertain what his next move should be. 

The decision was taken from him. Unnoticed by the three men deep in discussion, Daisy had appeared on the porch just after she had heard Mort’s voice in the yard. She had stood quietly by all this time, absorbing the information. Now she decided it was time she made her views known. 

“Slim?” At the sound of her soft voice all three men turned towards her. 

The two visitors tipped their hats. “Ma’am,” said the Major, acknowledging her presence. 

“Miss Daisy.” Mort responded, aware of Daisy’s astute mind and how she felt about her three adopted sons. He knew Daisy for the practical, supportive, loving woman she was, and acknowledged that if she had chosen to speak she must have something valuable to say. 

Stepping forward, Daisy placed a comforting hand on Slim’s arm and acknowledged the other men with a warm smile and a dip of her head. 

“Daisy, the Major here was just---,” Slim started to explain, reluctant to blurt everything out for fear of worrying Daisy. 

He needn’t have worried. Daisy’s soft tones interrupted him. “It’s all right, Slim, I heard everything. I could take Mike into town within the hour. We would be safe there, and from what I’ve heard the stock should be fine unattended. Jim Mortimer could come over each day and see to the horses and the stage.” 

Slim looked gratefully at his saviour. “You’re way ahead of me as usual, Daisy. Major, I know these hills. Have you any objection to me riding with you?” 

“I’m grateful for any help I can get, if it gets those renegades back on the reservation with the minimum of bloodshed,” the major explained, “But I can’t delay my departure for long.” 

“Don’t worry; I’m as eager as you to get up there. Daisy, how long will it take you to get ready?” Just knowing that Jess was in danger, Slim was itching to get underway, but he that Jess would never forgive him if he didn’t make sure that the rest of the family were safely taken care off. 

“It won’t take long to pack a few things for Mike and myself, Slim, but that needn’t delay you.” Daisy turned her most radiant smile on Mort, despite the knot of worry in her stomach. “Mort, won’t you be heading back to town shortly?” 

“I sure will, Miss Daisy. Towns filling up with rancher’s families that would rather feel safe until we know the armies got this situation under control,” he replied 

“Well then, if Mort doesn’t mind waiting, Mike and I can load up the buggy and go back to town with him. Why, we can even call on Jim on the way. It wouldn’t take us far out of our way.” 

Apart from the fact that Mort had a taste for Daisy’s apple pies and liked to keep in her good books, the Sheriff could see the sense in what the woman was saying. He had a high regard for Slim and Jess had come to earn that same respect. He was worried about him too, but hadn’t been able to see a way to leave his duties to head into the hills to help. At least this way, Slim would be able to set out right now. 

“I can’t see a problem with that, Miss Daisy.” Mort turned to Slim, “Well, boy, what you waiting for, go get your horse saddled up and get out of here.” 

Gratefully, Slim gave Daisy a hug, and then headed to the barn. “Thanks, Daisy, don’t you worry none, I’ll bring him back safe and sound.” 

 “I know you will. Now hurry up and get going. Mort will help me get the house secure,” Daisy called after him. 

At this point Mike had come out of the house, wondering where everyone was. As he came to stand by Daisy, he asked “Where’s, Slim going, Miss Daisy?” 

Daisy draped her arm around his small shoulders. “He’s helping the major here, Mike. Slim’s going to guide him up into the hills and the sheriff is going to escort us into town.” 

“Ain’t that where Jess is?” asked Mike, completely ignoring the part about town. 

“The word is isn’t that where Jess is, Mike; and yes, it is. Slim just might meet up with him.” Daisy continued to look in the direction of the barn. 

“Why are we going into town, Miss Daisy?” he asked as the rest of what Daisy had said registered in his mind. 

It was against Daisy’s nature to lie, but she didn’t want to worry Mike more than she had to. “Slim is likely to be away for a few days, and I thought it would be nice to go visiting.” 

“Do you think the Indians will come here then?” the astute child asked. 

 “No, Mike I don’t, and just how do you know about the Indians,” Daisy asked softly 

The young boy had the good grace to look at his feet. “I’m sorry, Miss Daisy, but the door was open, and you all was talking kind of loud.” 

Fondly Daisy squeezed his shoulder. “I guess we were, Mike. Now run along and start getting your clothes together. I’ll be there in a minute.” 

The boy started to do as he was told, but turned back at the last minute. “Miss Daisy, will Jess and Marie Rose and her father be alright?” 

“I’m sure they will be fine, Mike. They have Jess to look after them.” Daisy said aloud, but to herself she added.  ‘What’s worrying me is who will look after Jess’ 

The smile returned to Mike’s face and he headed back to the house. Daisy remained outside, watching with the sheriff as Slim joined the major and they both headed away to join the troop. Daisy had said a little prayer to herself, for all her families’ safe return. Then she took Mort’s arm and headed to the house also, “Come on, Mort, we’ve got some packing to do.” She forced herself to sound relaxed, but Mort knew exactly where her thoughts were. 

“Don’t worry, Miss Daisy, Jess may be stubborn and ornery at times, but he won’t let anything happen to James and his daughter. He’d die before he’d let any harm come them.” 

“I know that’s exactly what I’m worried about.” Then Daisy turned her thoughts away from her fears and set about preparing to leave, acting as confident as she could for Mike’s sake.

To Chapter 7

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