United Again: Book Four in the Montana Series

By Mabel G. Ebner

In this fourth book of the Montana Series, dreams, as well as unusual circumstances set several events in motion. Leaving for Canada late in the season could prove fatal, yet they head out with high hopes. Would they reach the new settlement before being caught in the deadly snows of the season, or would they become trapped in a blinding blizzard and perish? Only time will tell.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Fideli Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Jan 16, 2014
• ISBN: 9781604147568

Mabel G. Ebner

Having visited Montana for years from her nearby home in Idaho, Mabel G. Ebner has developed love and reverence for the state's scenic beauty and wildlife. She has expressed these feeling through her multiple talents and creativity. One can appreciate this in her acrylic paintings of mountains, waterfalls, moose, and elk as well as through her Montana book series. She is self-educated in creative writing and poetry, and has demonstrated a love of playing with words and a talent for painting pictures with them. “Montana: Echoes of the Past” is Mabel's first novel, but not her first published work. Previously she published a book of poetry titled “Reflections of the Soul.” Her poem, Grandeur, from that work, was included in “Of Diamonds and Rust,” an international poetry publication. Her poem, Silent Killer (about cancer), was published first on the Internet at poetry.com, and it received an Editor's Choice certificate from the International Poetry contest and was published in “Poet's Elite 2000.” She has also written stories for adults and children, songs, plays, and other poems not yet published. Drawing upon real life experiences has helped Mabel portray the characters, the drama, and the emotions accompanying each story in this novel. She says that the Heavenly Father provides her talent and inspiration. She and her husband, Maurice, have one daughter and have recently become grandparents. Mabel has sometimes paused during health challenges, but "quit" is not in her vocabulary. Mabel has written sequels to her first novel and hopes to eventually publish them as ebooks. They are: MONTANA: A Brave New Tomorrow, MONTANA: Autumn's Lengthening Shadows, MONTANA: In The Hands of Time and MONTANA: Whispers From the Future.

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United Again

Book Four in the Montana Series

Mabel G. Ebner

Smashwords ebook published by Fideli Publishing Inc.

Copyright 2014, Mabel G Ebner

No part of this eBook may be reproduced or shared by any electronic or mechanical means, including but not limited to printing, file sharing, and email, without prior written permission from Fideli Publishing.

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ISBN: 978-1-60414-756-8

I would like to dedicate this book to Martha Ann Smith Browning who has not only been a tremendous friend, but has help me with the proofing of all of my books. She has been a great support to me as she has listened while I discussed many aspects of the book.

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank my husband Maurice Ebner for being patient with me, as I have spent countless hours writing my books. His patience has been very helpful, which has enabled me to write as long as was necessary to get this book done. I want all to know that I appreciate him very much.

A huge thank you goes to Drew and Janice Lyon who have been with me from the beginning of the journey with the writing of this series. Thy have been a tremendous help to me. I appreciate all that they have done for me.

Many thanks goes out to Leah Martinez for the many hours she has listened to me read this series to her and helped me find the mistakes. Also for helping me clean up the books when they returned from those who were proofing them. She has been perhaps the most valuable in helping me, because she helped me with many factors of this book.

I would like to take the time to thank all of those who helped me from behind the scenes. But most of all, I would like to thank the Lord for giving me the talent to write.

Characters

The Thompson Family

Eileen, Paul’s aunt

Paul, the father, retired captain of Fort Missoula, now new wagon master

Kate, the mother

Aaron Joseph, twin, oldest son

Sara Anna-Heleen, twin, oldest daughter

The Thornton Family

Carl Thornton, deceased, (alias Howard Jones}

Anna, the mother

Nataka, Anna’s biological son

Sylvia, Anna’s biological daughter

James Payne, Anna’s Fiancé

The Jefferson Family

Albert, the father

Janice, the mother

Josh Taylor, adopted by the Jefferson’s when just a small boy

The Pedersen Family

Hans, the father

Ilse, the mother

Eric, the oldest son

Johann, the second son

Mary, the oldest daughter, also married To Carl Jensen

Gretchen, second daughter

Thirteen other children

Katherine, eighteenth child and youngest in the family

The Marrow Family

Eleanor, the oldest sister, also known as Ellie or Bear Woman

Lillian, the youngest sister, also known as Lil or Dove of Peace

Matilda Irene, nicknamed Tilley, the sisters adopted daughter

The Hill Family

Zachariah, the father, also sheriff of Missoula

Mattie, the mother

Zachariah, oldest son

Helen, oldest daughter

Hannah second daughter

Darrel, twin second son

Royal, twin, third son deceased

Rachel, third daughter

Eileen, twin fourth daughter

Emily, twin youngest daughter deceased

The Michaels Family

Howard Michaels, the father, also furniture store owner

Helen, the mother

Melissa, Colleen

The Lewis Family

Floyd, the father

Hannah, the mother

Amelia Jean, the daughter

The Hill Family

Darrel Hill, father

Ruby, mother

Ten children, names not mentioned in this book

The Holmes Family

Allen Holmes, father

Rachel, mother

Eight children not mentioned in this book

The Bates Family

Joshua Bates, father

Eileen, mother

Six children not mentioned in this book

The Kline Family

James, the father deceased

Emily, the mother deceased

Millicent, the oldest daughter

Mathew, the Son

Mattie, the youngest daughter

The Vaughn Family

Lewis Vaughn, husband

Julia Vaughn, his wife

Eloise Rose Vaughn, Lewis’s mother

Ethel June Rhodes, Julia’s mother

The Pearson Family

Riley George (Bud) Pearson, husband

Ruby Irene Wakefield Pearson, wife

The Barton Family

Robert Barton, the father diseased

Elizabeth Barton, the mother

Robert Barton, the son

The Stokes Family

Lyle Joseph, husband and reverend

Sarah Elizabeth Wheaton Stokes, wife

Pearl Langly, Sarah Wheaton Stokes’ sister

The Williams Family

Jedidiah, the husband

JaNae, the wife

Leola Crabtree, Williams’ Sister

The Smith Family

Ruth Smith

Rodney Jedidiah, the seven-year old son

Susan JaNae, six-year old daughter

The Polk Brothers

Thomas, The oldest brother

Jason, brother

The Georges Family

Rafe, the husband deceased

Harriet, wife

Rafe, son

Five other children not named at this time

The Harris Family

Samuel Harris, husband

Thelma, wife

Grace, daughter

Leah, daughter

Rose, daughter

Samuel, son

Paul, son

The Strowver Family

Willard, husband

Louise, wife

Homer, son

Rafe, son

Martha, wife

Jubal, son

Roy, Son

Renée, wife

Mildred, twin daughter

Miranda, twin daughter

Irene, Willard and Louise’s Daughter, also known as Reenie

Louella, Willard and Louise’s Daughter, also known as Lou

Jacob, Willard and Louise’s son

Lance, Willard and Louise’s son

Mathew, Willard and Louise’s son

Jude, Willard and Louise’s son

Vaughn Likens, Strowver’s hired hand

The Davis Family

Grant Francis, husband also a judge

Minerva Joyce Edwards, wife

The Tucker Family

Edwin, husband

Esther, wife

Justin, son

Amelia, daughter, also known as Meelie, married to Carl Jensen

The Wilkerson Family

Ned, husband

Niola, wife

Judith, daughter, also married to Carl Jensen deceased

The Jensen Family

Carl Jensen deceased

Judith Wilkerson, wife deceased

Mary Pedersen, also married to Carl Jensen

Hannah, daughter

Fiona, daughter

Carl Franklin Jr. also known as Eric Dean Pedersen

The Norton Family

Mr. Norton, father

Mrs. Norton, mother

Harriet, Daughter, also married to Carl Jensen

Other Wives: Oleah Jensen, was married to Carl Jensen, divorced

The Older Jensen Family

Hubert, husband

Alice, wife

Carl Franklin Jr. grandson and son of Carl Jensen from another woman

Alicia, granddaughter and daughter of Carl Jensen

The Jonas family

Harold Jonas, real name Harold Jeffries Father

Jason Thayerwood, Real name Allen Jeffries Son

The Reardon Family

Timothy, father

Meadow Lark, wife

John Lightfoot, son

Mark Grey Horse, son

Naomi Little Doe, daughter

Mathew Black Crow, son

Chief Grey Wolf, chief of tribe near new settlement

Chief Swift Eagle, Chief near Missoula

Others:

Robert Holbrook, murdered by the Jeffries

Reverend Willabee, pastor at Stevensville

Doctor Phelps, doctor from Fort Owens who went with the first wagon train

Doctor Franklin McCabe, retired military doctor who works out of Missoula

Doctor Phillips, from Stevensville

Major Brown, stationed back at Fort Missoula helped close this fort

Sid Hawkins, clerk for Colonel Williams at Fort Missoula

Mitchel Aimes, sergeant at Fort Missoula

Michael Cooper, private stationed from Fort Owens to Fort Missoula

Daniel Peters, from Fort Owens who helped scout for first wagon train

Thomas Payne, member of the first wagon train

Bank Manager, manager of Missoula Bank

Mort Walters, Sheriff Hill’s deputy who became sheriff of Missoula

Doctor Phelps, doctor for Fort Owens and settlement

Nell Huntley, waitress, working at the cafe in Missoula

Joshua Taylor, son of the Jeffersons

John Whipple, son of Jonathon and Hattie Whipple

Tobias Henry, member of the posse who witnessed a murderer

Gabriel Thatcher, mortician at Missoula

Harry Groesbeck, was murdered by the Polk Brothers

Hank Jessup, helped Williams with his sister’s trunks

Harold Young, helped Williams with his sister’s trunks

Joseph Clark, acting Sheriff in Missoula after Mort Walters

Lance Murphy, Mort Walters friend, also ran Murphy’s Saloon

Jake Wallace, owner of the Liver stable

Jared Wilson, owned the café in Missoula

Stage Coach Driver

Member of the posse that went out to the Circle P Ranch

Adams Roberts, nephew of Robert Holbrook

Bates

Goille

Harris

Slone

Lyndon

Ritter

Tyler Zukes, Hill’s friend, hired to break his horse at the new settlement

Timothy Cogburn, new sheriff of Missoula, also ruthless

John Conner, nasty tempered man ousted from the second wagon train

Luke Short, nasty tempered man ousted from the second wagon train

Chapter 1

The first ten miles of the trip back to Missoula was not only rough for the wagons and horses, but those on the wagons felt as if they were being jarred to death. Some of the ruts were deep. As the drivers of the wagons tried to maneuver through the deep twisting terrain, they feared breaking a wagon wheel. Neither Lil, nor Ellie spoke as it took Lil’s full concentration on guiding the horses to where they needed to go. They didn’t reach the crossing until near noon. As the drivers climbed down from their wagons to follow Nataka, as he assessed the height of the swollen water, their hearts nearly failed them.

Turning to hug her sister, Ellie’s eyes showed the fear she felt as she cried out, Oh, Lil! How do you think we’ll ever get across that water?

For the first time, Lil felt fear grip her, as she replied, I’m sure I don’t know?

Hearing their words, Nataka turned to address them. I’ll ride across on Hurricane, then secure a rope to a large tree. Then Peters here will tie his end securely over here. It won’t be easy, but we can do it.

I hope so, uttered Ellie, purely not convinced.

Don’t fret, Ellie, comforted Nataka. I’ve seen worse than this and still made it across without incident. This will be so much easier, if you don’t panic.

I’m worried about Lil getting us over.

If you follow my instructions to the letter, you’ll be fine. Just …

I know, shuddered Lil. Don’t show fear or the horses will pick up on it … right?

Listen, Ellie, would you feel more secure crossing over with me?

I don’t think I’ll be secure anyway I go across, but perhaps I should stay with Lil to issue support.

Lil squeezed Ellie’s hand. Go with Nataka, Sis. Knowing that you are safe will help me fear less. I know it will be something new, but I know that Zachariah taught me everything I would need to know to handle the team. If necessary, I’ll stop them in the middle of the stream until they grow calm enough to take me on across.

Don’t do that, advised Nataka. That would panic them more. Just remain calm, but also affirmative. That will do the trick. As you come across, if need be, I’ll shout over further instructions.

That would be most helpful.

Nataka called to Ellie, Come on, Little Sister. Let’s get a move on. Once we are all across, we’ll stop long enough for something to eat. When we have gotten up this winding, twisting trail, we will camp for the night. Lifting Ellie onto the back of Hurricane, he made sure that she understood how important it was for her to hold on to him tightly. Now, he called to Lil, when we are across and the rope is secure, ride out above the rope. The rope will act as a guide for you. Lil you come first then the rest of you follow after her. Smiling at Lil reassuringly, he added. You can do it, Little Sister. Just have a little confidence in yourself and your horses.

Thanks for the encouragement. I’ll give the task all that I’ve got.

"Good girl! Without another word, Nataka took one end of the rope, which he wound around the saddle horn then talking softly to Hurricane, they approached the water. At first Hurricane wanted to balk, but with a little coaxing from Nataka, the horse plunged into the frigid water. Slowly, yet steadily they moved through the water. Near the middle, Hurricane struggled through the rapid movement of the water. Suddenly, they emerged onto the opposite bank. After Ellie got down from the back of the horse, she moved a safe distance away to watch her sister cross the swollen creek.

As the horses approached the bank, they began to protest. Stopping them, Lil got down from the wagon to go to the front of the horses. Talking soothingly to them, they slowly calmed down. When Lil was satisfied that they would do as asked, she went back to get onto the wagon. Clucking as she tapped them gently on the rump, the horses snorted once then stepped gingerly into the swirling water. As the wagon moved through the water, there were times that it would not go around a large bolder, or it tried to mire down, but by keeping her head the horses did their best to get the wagon across. Near the opposite bank, trouble began to visit them. Still keeping her cool, Lil did all that Nataka advised her to do. There was a particularly large rock baring the way, so Lil got the horses to back up a couple of steps then moved around the boulder and then up onto the opposite bank. When the wagon was near the bottom of the trail that they still had to navigate, Lil stopped the horses. Knowing that there were more wagons to cross, they decided to prepare a good meal to fortify them all for the next stage of the trip.

After taking care of the horses they tied them to some trees, then gave them their feedbags. Working together quickly, they soon had a hot meal. As they were dishing up the food, the last wagon pulled up onto the bank. Lil went over to tell them, There is more than enough food prepared for everyone to eat, so when you have washed up, come and get it. Being hungry, the weary men quickly washed up and joined the ladies. After blessing the food, they fell to with hungry appetites. Taking a bite, the men praised the meal highly.

Lil and I have talked things over and would like to make a suggestion. That got the men’s immediate attention.

What’s that, asked Nataka.

We’ll cook the meals, if you men will see to it that we have all the wood and water needed to cook the meals. She hesitated a moment then added, Then do the clean up.

This suggestion more than pleased the men, who readily agreed. Raising his hand, Peters declared, I most heartily vow to get all the wood needed at each stop.

Sticking up his arm, Phelps added, I’ll get the water at every stop. That’s the least this old man can do if it means getting food like this!

Eric rose to kiss Ellie lightly on the lip, I will not only take care of the horses, which includes unhitching them from the wagon, but remove the harnesses, rub them down, take them to the river to drink and finally, I’ll stake them out. Then I’ll do the same in the morning. This food would make a feller promise you both the moon and stars if that’s what it took to get fare this wonderful.

How about offering her a wedding ring, teased Nataka.

Growing serious, Peters nodded approvingly. Now, you’ve got it right, Nataka.

When both of the young people blushed, the rest of the group, including Lil laughed heartily.

Smiling innocently, Lil replied, I wouldn’t mind having you for a brother, Eric.

Ellie picked up the empty skillet as if to hit her sister with it, You hush, Lil Marrow, before I use this skillet on you!"

Never happen, declared Lil.

What makes you so sure, missy?

Growing stern, Lil stated matter-of- factly, For two reasons. First you love me too much, and second, you’d have to drive the team up this hill, or go back across that creek.

Oh, you! Dropping the skillet back onto the tailgate of the wagon, Ellie made as if to swat her sister, but Lil quickly stepped behind Nataka.

Quickly stepping away, Nataka yelled, Hey! Don’t get me mixed up in this fight!

Isn’t that what brother’s are for? When Ellie made as if to hit him, Nataka grabbed her and held her until she yelled for mercy.

Now, that’s what brothers do! They all guffawed then growing serious, Nataka said, We need to get up this awful hill before the sun goes down.

Ellie replied, It won’t take us long to get this camp mess cleared away, then we’ll get the horses hitched to the wagon."

That’s my job, declared Eric. I’m not going to miss out on those super vitals by shirking my duty, no sir! You can bet your sweet Aunt Petunia, I won’t! When he was out of sight, the girls laughed at his strange antics. By the time camp was set to rights, the horses were hitched to all of the wagons. Nataka stopped by the Marrow wagon to ask, Are you both set to take on this monster?

Sure, replied Lil as she gathered the reins. Just tell me where to position our wagon.

Pleased with Lil’s attitude, Nataka smiled. Well, you are to go up first. When you get to the top, Daniel will direct you to where you are to position your wagon for the night. I’ve asked Eric to go with him, so that he can prepare a fire pit for you.

That won’t be necessary, we can do that.

I know, but that way, you can get started cooking up a storm.

Seeing his logic, the girls complied. Ellie uttered, I can see your point, sir.

When Peters has reached the top, he will signal for you to go up. This hill is so steep, that I feel that two teams should be hooked together to help pull the wagons up."

Eric brought the team forward to hitch to the others. When they were ready, they waited, as Eric Pederson and Daniel Peters went up to the top. Soon they heard a loud shot, which was the signal. Getting into position, Lil called to the horses. Giddy up guys. Slowly the wagon lurched forward, as the team started pulling with all of their might. Even with nearly empty wagons, it was hard for the two teams to get the wagons to the top. As they struggled upward, Lil continued to praise the horses. Ellie struggled to remain calm, but it was very difficult. When they crested the top, Ellie sighed in relief. I have to hand it to you, Sis. That was an excellent job of horsemanship.

Thanks, Ellie. I almost lost it once, but knowing the horses could smell my fear, I hastily stuffed it back inside."

I never would have known you felt that way. You could play poker, and win with a lousy hand, because of how straight your face was.

That’ll be the day, chuckled Lil.

Peters led them to where they were to park their wagon. Unhitching the team, he went back down the hill. It was Peter’s job to take the horses back and forth for the other teamsters. When Eric had the fire pit ready, he got a good fire going. When he was finished, Eric went to gather the wood, while Lil got the water. Ellie and Lil began to prepare a hearty meal. By the time they were done with everything, all of the wagons had made it to the top. Going to several of the wagons, Ellie asked if she could use their plates to feed everyone. They gladly shared what they had. Lil helped prepare the dishes for the men to eat. Payne, who had donated a large coffee pot, also donated the coffee. The coffee had just finished brewing as the last wagon topped the hill. Picking up a tin plate Ellie banged on the bottom to let the men know it was ready to eat. Eric, returning from taking care of the horses, asked, Can I help you two somehow?

It’s ready as soon as you’ve washed up.

It’s as good as done. Quickly stealing a kiss, he went to wash up.

When camp was cleaned up, the sisters went to put up their tent, but were surprised to see that it was already up. Looking around, Peters smiled. I saw my opportunity when you were cleaning up camp, to steal your tent, cots and bedding. So I availed my self of this grand chance to surprise you. Eric helped me get everything ready. Hope you both aren’t angry.

Angry, replied Lil. We’re ecstatic! I don’t know about Ellie, but I’m so bone tired that the thought of having to put that tent up was horrifying.

I was dreading it, too, confessed Ellie.

Good, I’m glad that we did it. From now on that’s our job.

Thank you, Daniel.

My pleasure, dear friend. Say, I didn’t get a chance to tell both of you that those vitals were scrumptious! I think I’m going to like this new arrangement just fine. Patting his stomach, he walked away.

Eric approached Ellie, Would you like to go for a walk with me before going to bed?

I’d like that a lot.

Taking her hand, they strolled down to the creek. When they were out of sight from prying eyes, Eric wrapped his arms around Ellie then lowering his head he claimed her lips in a passionate embrace that sent flames of passion coursing through her. Lifting his head, he drew her close to whisper, Oh, how I love you, Eleanor Marrow!

She whispered back, I love you too! Moaning in delight, he touched her lips teasingly then growing impatient, he kissed her until she grew weak in the knees with desire. Releasing her, he looked lovingly into her eyes. I stand here, a man being loved by one of the most beautiful women in the world, but for the life of me, I don’t know what I could possibly have done to deserve this."

Hiding her face on his chest to hide her confusion, she replied, I have been wondering the same thing.

I can answer that for you, whispered Eric. I’ve seen the way you treat those who have suffered from the loss of their loved one. I watch you with Tilly and pictured you with my sons or daughters and I grow hungry to do wild things to you. Then realizing that I have to bide my time, I feel as if I’ll go mad with the waiting.

Shivering with delight, Ellie looked into her lover’ s face. I didn’t know you felt that way."

Well, I do. Let me show you a small sample of what is waiting for you. Drawing her closer, he teased her with his lips, kissed the nape of her neck then slowly slid his lips up to drink hungrily of hers. Lifting his lips a moment, he again claimed them in an embrace that sent Ellie rocketing over the edge as she returned kiss for kiss. When he lifted his lips, Ellie’s arms slipped up around his neck as he once more claimed her lips with even more intensity than before. Running her fingers through his hair as he kissed her, he moaned as his kiss intensified even more. Releasing her, he stepped back to stare at her in shock. If I don’t take you back now, I won’t be able to do so until we have both go to far.

I never thought I would feel this way, whispered Ellie. Thank you for considering my feelings. This only makes me love you more.

That was more than Eric was prepared for. Kissing her lips lightly, they went back to Ellie’s tent. Good night, honey. Sleep well … I’ll see you in the morning.

"Goodnight, Eric. He quickly hurried away, before he did something stupid. Smiling, Ellie went inside to go to bed. Lil was already asleep, so Ellie undressed and went to bed. Sighing, she tried to turn onto her side, but the cot folded up on her. Screaming, she struggled to get out. Lil sprang from her bed to see what was wrong with her sister. Seeing her sister sandwiched in the bed, she lost control. She began to laugh so hard that she couldn’t speak. Growing concerned when her sister didn’t answer when she asked her if she were all right, she stepped closer and saw that the reason Ellie didn’t answer was that she too was laughing uproariously. Grabbing the end of her cot, Lil pushed down on it to let Ellie slip out of the cot.

Suddenly, many men were outside their tent asking what was wrong. Lil poked her head out to tell them what had happened. Is she all right? asked Nataka.

Yes, she is laughing about it, giggled Lil.

Well, wrap a blanket around you and I’ll fix the cot. Soon the cot was put to rights and all had gone to bed. As the men walked away there was a great deal of laughing going on.

When Lil had fallen to sleep, Ellie lay awake, feeling the effects of Eric’s kisses. With a happy heart, she finally fell asleep.

* * *

The next morning as they prepared breakfast, the men busied themselves with the chores. Turning the bacon in the skillet, Lil looked over at Ellie, "Sis, have you been thinking what I have?’

Ellie, giggled, as she replied, I don’t know what you are thinking, so I don’t know how to answer that.

While coming back to this camp, I’ve been feeling like someone who has taken six steps forward, then is forced to take eight steps back.

Yes, I’ve been thinking the same.

No more was said as they continued to prepare breakfast. Soon they were all hurriedly eating so that they could be on the way. While the women cleaned up camp, the men took down all of the tents, including the sister’s tent. Before leaving camp, the fire was doused then Nataka posed a question. How do you all feel about skipping our noon break so we can get further each day?

It’s a good idea, replied Ellie. The night before, when we prepare the evening meal, we’ll bake up some extra biscuits as well as prepare a good size portion of meat."

That’s good.

Peters interrupted by asking, Do you have enough meat on hand, Ellie.

Yes, for at least three meals. That includes the meal we make tonight then what is needed to chew on while we travel.

Payne spoke up, Why don’t a couple of us men go hunting after we camp for the night?

That would be great, declared Nataka.

I have enough biscuits for our noon meal, but nothing to go with it.

Phelps piped up, I have a good supply of beef jerky that I’ll share with everyone.

Then that’s settled. We’ll stop long enough to get fresh water, let the horses drink, then prepare a light snack to nibble on while we travel.

I have an idea, replied Lil. Why don’t we prepare our lunches before we leave, then we can eat at our own discretion?

A few minutes later, they were on their way. Ellie drove that day, allowing Lil to relax until time to prepare the supper meal. It was decided that when one drove the other would prepare the meals. That way they each got a break from the monotony of the same routine.

By omitting the lunch meal, they made fifteen miles by the time they reached their next camp. While Lil prepared the evening meal, Ellie helped set up the tents. Two men, one of them being Payne, went out to procure meat for the rest of the trip. They returned just before dark, with a huge buffalo. Dressing it out, they sliced off several steaks, which Lil prepared for the next day’s lunch. When the meat was ready, they placed it on a tin plate then covered it with another tin plate before storing it in their grub box. They hung the remainder of the meat from a high branch so nothing could disturb it throughout the night. Lil had also made a batch of baking powder biscuits to go with the meat they would eat at their noon meal. Everyone was so weary from the long days travel that they retired early. Eric had stopped long enough to take Ellie for a short walk. Seeing how tired she was, he kissed her passionately a couple of times, then walked her back to their tent. Kissing her once more, he went back to where he would be bunking in the same wagon with Peters.

Just before dawn a grizzly paid them a visit with the intensions of getting a good bite to eat. He was chased off three times, before getting the hint that he wasn’t wanted. After leaving, the men were hard pressed to get the frightened horses calmed down enough for those not on duty to go back to bed.

An hour later, a pack of wolves came trotting in to investigate the kill. As it was only an hour before time to get up, the men decided to get an early start. Taking a clean tarp from the back of Payne’s wagon, they wrapped the meat in it so that it wouldn’t get dirty. While they did this, Eric took the horses down to drink at the river. Bringing them back, he began to harness them preparatory for leaving. Tying them to some trees, he went to help where needed.

They had just finished eating breakfast, when the grizzly returned. This time, the blasts from the gun didn’t affect him. The men were hard pressed to keep the horses from bolting. Only when Nataka shot between the bear’s feet, did it decide to leave.

Nataka got into Payne’s wagon, to unwrap the meat. Saving the parts where the steaks were the best, he cut the bison in half. He had only just finished rewrapping the meat, when the bear returned. This time, the male bruin stood on his haunches raking the air menacingly. Smacking his lips threateningly, thick saliva drooled from his mouth. Carrying the meat a good distance from the wagons, Nataka tossed it on the ground. Sprinting back to the wagons, he quickly washed up. Twice, Payne shot close to the bear, forcing it to retreat. The men quickly got the horses hitched to the wagons, while Nataka doused the fire. As they climbed up to the wagons, they could hear the bear roar as it came crashing through the trees toward them. Leaving the bear to his meal, they got under way. There was no more sign of the bear as they traveled throughout the arduous day, but Nataka felt sure they would see him some time in the night.

Stopping at noon long enough to rest the horses and eat their lunch, the men rested up. Thirty minutes later, they were on their way once more. They traveled hard the rest of the day, making twenty miles on the open ground. Camping for the night, they put the wagons in a circle for better protection. They put the horses inside the circle where they were safer. Four men stayed on watch for the first four hours then four other men would take the watch for the remaining four hours. While Lil prepared the evening meal, as well as fried up enough steaks for lunch the next day, the men and Ellie set up camp. When the meal was ready, they stopped long enough to eat. While the girls did camp chores, the men finished setting up camp. Knowing that the bear would return again, Nataka cut up the last of the meat for one more meal. The rest was carried a good distance from camp and tossed along the riverbank. Telling everyone to stay in camp that night, they built up the fire so that the flames would scare off the bear. They knew by the startled horses that the bear wasn’t far away.

Nataka encouraged Lil to finish frying up the meat, so that it could be placed inside the Dutch ovens to help mask the tantalizing odors. When the meat was finished, they quickly placed the meat inside several Dutch ovens, with the lid securely in place. Wiping out the pans thoroughly, they placed them into the back of the Conestoga. Not satisfied with its meager meal, the grizzly wanted one of the horses. Finally, near dawn the male bear began to smack it lips while smacking the ground in anger. The fires held it at bay for a while, but it was plain that the bear was mighty hungry. Hunger was driving him to become brazen. Seeing no other alternative, they shot the bear. Wounding him, the male went literally berserk. Throwing caution to the wind, the bear charged the wagons. The men piled the last of the wood onto the fire. When Nataka shot in the air, the bear stopped a moment. When the fire caught the wood, making the dancing flames fan the air, the bear edged back a little. Swinging its massive head to and fro, the bear roared out his anger. Hunger, dulling all sense of reason, the bear charged toward the nearest wagon. All of the men opened fire on the bear, making the night air reverberate loudly. The bear fell into a heap and laid still. The men waited for a while to make sure that the bear was indeed dead. When it didn’t move for fifteen minutes, Payne got a long tree branch to stick the bear. After several hard jabs, they were satisfied that it was dead. Checking to see if there was any salvageable meat, they decided that there wasn’t any good meat on his skeletal like body, so they dug a huge hole. When it was ready, they pushed the bear into the hole then buried it so that other animals wouldn’t try to follow them. While the men were busy with this job, Ellie began to prepare breakfast. After eating, camp was dismantled. It was still dark when they started out, but at least they felt safe from the intimidating bear.

* * *

At noon they paused long enough to let the horses drink and rest. Meanwhile, the group of travelers wolfed down their lunch. Thirty minutes later, they started on their way. Again, by the time they stopped for the night, they had made twenty miles. The trail was solidly packed, making for easy traveling. While they were setting up camp, two men went to get more meat. Returning with a bull elk, they cut it up into steaks and stew meat. They cooked all of the steaks and boiled the stew meat. When it was ready, they put all but what was needed for supper into the Dutch ovens. When the stew meat was done, the girls made a hearty stew that would last them for the remainder of the trip. By the time the meal was finished, they were all so weary that all they wanted was to sleep. Eric helped the girls finish cleaning up the mess then kissing Ellie once, they all retired to their separate beds to sleep. Only those on guard duty remained awake. Nataka realized that everyone was exhausted from the past forty-eight hours, so didn’t wake anyone until daylight.

As they hadn’t had time to check over the wagons or get their washing done, Nataka decided to let this be the time to do so. Ellie and Lil had the men bring their clothes to them to wash, so they could be free to check the wagons, make sure the wheels were greased, or whatever else they found that had to be repaired. When the water was hot, Ellie had two men string several ropes to some trees. When the men were done, the girls started doing the washing. While Ellie scrubbed the clothes, Lil prepared a good batch of bread. When the bread was ready to bake, she shaped the dough into two round loaves and placed them into two well-oiled Dutch ovens. Preparing a special pit, she transferred some of the coals into the pit and buried the Dutch ovens into the coals. Making sure to add some coals to the top of the oven, she cleaned up her mess. Several minutes later, she checked the bread to see if it was done. It was a beautiful golden brown. Satisfied that everything was the way that she wanted it, she went to help Ellie with the wash.

Soon the washing was done. After helping to get rid of the water, they went back to prepare the stew they had made the night before. When it was ready, they called the men to eat.

Grateful for the reprieve, they all washed up to eat. Tasting the fresh bread, the men began to rave about the meal.

The rest of the afternoon was taken up with folding the clothes. Ellie had wisely washed the clothes in separate batches, so as not to mix anything up. So as they removed the clothes from the lines, they paid attention to how they had gone up. When they were finished with the clothes, she put them into order for each man.

By the time Lil and Ellie had the seperate tasks completed and supper over with they were both so weary, that they could hardly keep their eyes open.

Half an hour later the men returned to take care of their clean clothes. Going in search of a good place to wash off the dirt, they returned to get the girls. Nataka approached the girls. We found a good place for you to bathe and swim if you want.

Rising, Ellie exclaimed, Want! That sounds like heaven! Gathering some clean clothes, soap and a couple of towels, they followed Nataka to the private bathing site. Gawking around, Lil uttered in awe, Oh what a beautiful place. Trees surrounded the area, creating a picturesque setting that was pleasing to the eye.

Turning to leave, Nataka called out, Enjoy yourselves, ladies. You more than deserved this time to yourselves.

After he had gone, they undressed then started to slip into the pool. The water was so icy that it caused them to pull back. Looking at each other, they dove in. Coming to the surface, they gasped for air as they worked their way back to shore. Getting out they waited a moment before trying again. This time it wasn’t so bad. They swam for a while then took their bath. They helped each other with their hair then swam for several more minutes. When the water grew too cold to swim, they got out to dry off. Dressing as quickly as possible, they wrapped their hair in a towel and started back to camp.

Wow, Whistled Eric. Look at these gorgeous ladies! The girls giggled happily. Kissing Ellie once, he whispered, Good night, honey. Turning to the men, he yelled, The last one to the pool is a rotten egg."

Grabbing their clothes, towel, as well as other necessities, the men raced toward the pond. When the men were out of sight, the girls rubbed their hair dry with the towel then combed it. Braiding it, they wrapped a fresh towel around their head and headed for bed. They were asleep as soon as their head hit the pillow. They never knew when the men retuned to go to bed. Guards were posted then camp grew quiet. An hour later, they were awakened by a terrible sound. As they emerged from their tents, a grizzly scene was being played out before them. A pack of wolves had cornered a large mule deer near the water. His eyes were large with fright. Lowering its impressive rack, it pawed the ground menacing. The wolves backed up just out of reach of those long, pointed dagger-like horns. Occasionally a wolf would dodge in to bite some place vulnerable on the deer’s body. Each time there was a loud rending sound that drove the rest of the pack forward. After several such attacks, the deer began bleeding profusely. As the blood loss was great, it was only a matter of time until the wolves would finish it off. However, the deer was not going down willingly. Each time a wolf struck, the deer swung it massive rack toward a pesky upstart.

Those in camp stood riveted to the spot, watching in fearful anticipation as the scene continued to play out before them. All at once, a bigger male wolf jumped for the throat and missed. It was gored through by one of the points on the deer’s rack. Crying in mortal agony, the wolf was thrown clear of the pack. There was a sickening thud as the wolf’s body struck the ground. It lay there for a long time without moving. A little while later, he tried to rise, but it was evident to all there, that the wolf was mortally wounded. Whimpering softly, he laid his head down, quivered and lay still. He was gone!

Gasping at the horror of the wolf’s death, Lil hid her face on her sister’s shoulder. Holding her close, Ellie absently watched in gruesome fascination as another wolf circled the dying buck. Again, he shook his massive rack back and forth in warning. Seeming to know that it was only a matter of time, the wolves sat on their haunches and waited. One wolf, a beautiful female, licked her paw daintily.

Suddenly another male lunged toward the buck, sinking his teeth into the huge throat. The buck tried to shake him off, but the wolf clung on tenaciously. Seeing the buck was going down, the rest of the pack swarmed onto him to finish him off. A few of the wolves started to eat him as he lay dying. Suddenly, the buck laid still. It was over. The wolves began to gorge on the carcass.

Leaving them to their feast, the group went back to their tents and to bed. No matter how they tried to push the sound from their mind, it wouldn’t go. Finally an hour later, the wolves went down to the river to drink, then moved off into the night.

That gave the sisters time to go to sleep. During the night, unbeknownst to those in camp, several other scavengers came to eat their fill. As was nature’s way, the buck and wolf provided many meals for the nocturnal creatures.

Two days later, they woke to the smell of smoke on the horizon. Looking toward Fort Missoula, they saw columns of smoke billowing skyward. It was Lil’s day to do the cooking, while Ellie drove the wagon. As they prepared breakfast, the girls wondered what could be causing the smoke? Were those at Fort Missoula in trouble? Did they need help? These were the questions that plagued the girls that bright August morning. There were many speculations spoken by them as they busied themselves. Nataka stepped up to them. I noticed that you were wondering about the smoke billowing up from the direction of Fort Missoula.

Ellie replied, Yes, we were. We were wondering if they needed help or what needed to happen?

I sent Peters over to see if they needed our help when we saw the smoke in that direction. He should be joining us before we get under way.

Good,

By the time breakfast was ready to eat, camp had been dismantled. Washing up, they blessed the food. Filling their plates, they began to eat. When they were nearly finished, they saw a rider approaching rapidly toward them. Recognizing Tulips, Peters’ horse, they quickly wolfed down the rest of the food so they could find out what Peters had to say. Dismounting, Peters hurried over to report to Nataka.

The fort is on fire. When I got there, many wagons were positioned a good distance from the Fort. I spoke to Colonel Williams, who informed me that they were ordered to close down the fort then burn it to the ground. Nataka, they were also ordered to burn down Fort Owens.

Have they done that yet?

Yes.

Oh, was Nataka’s only comment.

Lil asked what the others couldn’t, What’s to happen to the people who lived there?

I asked the colonel that very question. He said that most of the soldiers had been posted to other forts. That is, all except for those men who were being mustered out. Some were going home, while others wanted to come join us.

John, who was listening anxiously asked, Who were the men that want to join us?

Colonel Williams introduced me to three of them. Scratching his head, he tried to remember their names. Suddenly, he smiled. I remember now. There was a man named Mitchel Aimes…

That’s wonderful! cried John and Josh as one.

Peters continued as if he hadn’t heard their outburst. Michael Cooper, who had been stationed at Fort Owens when we were there and Major Brown, who closed down Fort Owens."

Again, John interrupted to say, I was hoping that one of the men was Sid Hawkins. He was Colonel Williams clerk. We became great friends when I visited the fort.

Sid was a square kind of guy. He was someone whom we learned to like very much, said Josh.

I’m glad that your friends are going to join you, replied Ellie.

Peters continued, It Seems that Sid Hawkins is going to return home to help his mother. The colonel said that they were going to meet with the Hills, who were waiting for their families to arrive so that they could start out.

Ellie replied, Then our dreams weren’t figments of our hungry, overwrought imaginations.

Shaking his head negatively, he replied, No they weren’t. Chancing the subject, he replied, If we are to get to Missoula before the second Tuesday of next week, then we had better shake a leg.

Nothing more was said as they went about their work. As Lil and Ellie cleaned up the breakfast mess, the men went to do their chores. Soon the horses were being hitched to the wagons. When they had gotten everything loaded into the wagon, the group was ready to move out. While Nataka doused the fire, they got the rest of the group got up onto the wagon seats, ready to leave. Satisfied that it was out, Nataka mounted and the wagons proceeded toward Missoula.

As they slowly inched toward Missoula, the Sister’s hearts began to pound from the excitement of seeing Mattie and Zachariah. They had sorely missed them these past few weeks of travel. It would be so good to see them again.

An hour later, they joined those who were leaving Fort Missoula. They got there in time to have lunch with them. When lunch was over, they continued on into town.

Chapter 2

Horace Green bolted up in bed, gasping for air, with beads of perspiration covering his face. Minnie, who was jolted awake, rose to comfort him. What is going on with you, Horace? This is the third night in a row that you have acted like this.

I have had the same dream for three nights in a row. Nothing changes … it’s always the same thing.

Can you tell me about it?

Not yet, dear. When I figure out what is happening, I’ll tell you everything.

Would it help to share it? Perhaps I can help you figure it out.

Perhaps. Lying back onto the bed, he sighed deeply then began to relate his dream. Something is terribly wrong around us. I see dead people everywhere. There are so many dead that it is difficult to get them all buried. We lament the fact that we didn’t leave when we had the chance. Looking over at Minnie, he continued, When we realize that it is much to late to leave, we can’t find any place safe enough to hide. We are like sitting ducks … all lined up to be used for target practice.

That’s awful!

There is so much more to the story. When it is all over, there were no buildings left standing. How we survived, I’m not sure, but it would have been better had we perished, too. Winter was coming on and there was nothing to build a home out of. Nor was there any food to be had anywhere. Our store was gone. I don’t know how, but it was gone! He made a sweeping motion with his hands to indicate that there was nothing. Those that were spared were falling down with some kind of terrible disease that took them one, by one.

Can you describe the symptoms?

There were terrible sores on their bodies.

Minnie inhaled quickly. That sounds like smallpox.

Springing into a sitting position, Green stared at his wife as if she had suddenly lost her mind. Smallpox! Surely you can’t be right!

Smallpox is what you are describing. Flinging the covers back, she got out of bed. Wait, I saw a book in the store about deadly diseases. Let me get it. Lighting the lamp, she disappeared for a few minutes. Returning with a book in her hand, she sat the lamp on the nightstand then sat down upon the bed. Opening the book, she went to the back. Finding what she wanted, Minnie turned to read the symptoms to Horace. As she spoke he turned very pale. When she was finished she looked over at her mate to ask, Is this what you saw?

Yes! Rising, Green paced the circumference of their bedroom. Every once in a while, he would pause to run his hand through his hair. Finally, he leaned on the bed to look her in the eyes. What does it all mean?

I’m not sure. However, I believe you are definitely being given a warning of some kind. Let’s discuss it in the morning after we try to get some more sleep.

A good idea. I haven’t been able to concentrate on anything for the last three days.

When they had both gotten into bed, Minnie blew out the lamp. Cuddling, they fell into a deep sleep.

Two more times during the night, Green woke to the same dream. Giving sleep up as a hopeless cause, he rose to prepare for the day. Going to the office of the store, he started going through his paper work. An hour later, he wearily leaned back in his chair. All at once, he had a waking vision.

The people were very ill from some awful disease. Seeing the oozing, pussy sores on their bodies, some of which were scabbed over, he suddenly remembered Minnie reading to him about smallpox. These people have smallpox, he cried aloud!

Suddenly the scene changed. People were running helter-skelter in an attempt to flee some kind of danger. What the danger was, he couldn’t tell. As he looked around, people were suddenly falling down, never to rise again. He could smell smoke that seemed close, but what was burning, he couldn’t see. Turning to go back to his store, he saw that it was engulfed in flames. He tried to move, but couldn’t. Minnie was trying to get to him, when she suddenly fell to the ground. Again, he tried to get to her, but he seemed rooted to the spot. People were screaming as they rushed around in an attempt to flee. Again, people fell to the ground, never to rise again. In the background, he could hear hellish laughter. He couldn’t move his head to see where it was coming from.

All at once, the town was nothing but a mass of ashes, or broken chimneys. People lay dead in the streets. Children stood around crying for the fallen parents. Green’s heart ached for these little forsaken waifs. He heard himself ask, Won’t someone help them? Again the scene changed. Those who were able to escape the terrible holocaust were trying to find something to eat. No matter where they looked, there wasn’t anything edible to eat. They too began to die off. Soon, there wasn’t a soul left in town. Not even the little children were left.

When it was finished, he was more confused and exhausted than ever.

Before he could rise he had another vision, different from the first. In this vision, there were several people coming into town to procure supplies. When they drew closer, Horace realized that the group, being led by Nataka, was those that had left earlier that month. He asked himself, It’s nearing the last day of August, so why were they here?

Before he could arrive at a conclusion the scene changed to that of more wagons coming down the street. He didn’t recognize these people, but they appeared to be afraid of someone or something. Again, before he could discern what it all meant, the scene disclosed many people buying him out of everything. Nataka’s group was buying out large quantities of supplies. He couldn’t see the faces of the others, but they too were buying him out. He tried to keep them supplied, but it was impossible. He needed at least triple the amount in his store, plus so much more.

Suddenly the vision was over. What can it mean? he asked aloud. Rising, he went to get a drink of water to distract himself enough so that he could think better. Not having experienced a waking dream, let alone two in one hour, he was tempted to ignore it altogether and go back to bed. However, something inside of him just wouldn’t let it be. Setting the empty glass on the counter, he went back to the office. Again the vision flooded his mind. Giving in to it, he knew that he couldn’t ignore it any longer. Picking up his catalog, he put it in front of him, along with the writing materials that he needed. Daylight was beginning to appear in the window by the time he had finished preparing the biggest order he had ever purchased since opening the store. What will Minnie think about this crazy order, he wondered. Aloud he exclaimed, Well, I’ll know soon enough.

Putting the order into an envelope, he decided to send a wire off to the company. This way it could get here much faster. As he laid it onto the desk, he heard Minnie’s footsteps just outside the door. Smiling, he was somehow happy to know that he didn’t have to wait to know how she felt about it. He was about to have his answer.

Opening the door a crack, she peered inside. Are you busy, or should I wait until later to speak with you?

No, dear. I’m glad you are here so that I can speak to you.

You are? It was plain to see that Minnie was surprised to see how eager he was to speak to her. Closing the door, she walked over to take the seat behind the desk. You seemed more at ease than a few hours ago.

I am. I had several more of those dreams. Giving sleep up as hopeless, I came in here to catch up on my paper work. While here, I have had three waking visions. Seeing her worried expression, he hastened to speak. All of them were the same, only more in detail than the dreams. Horace watched his mate’s face closely as he continued, I saw several wagons coming into town to get an inordinate amount of supplies. The people seemed familiar somehow. I ignored the first one, by going to the kitchen to get a drink of water. Coming back to the office, I had the same vision, only in more detail.

Did you see who the people were?

Yes, but I don’t understand what they are doing back here.

Please explain.

It was Nataka Hansen with a lot of those who had gone with him about a month ago.

Oh! Minnie sat there a moment as she scratched her head. That is very curious indeed.

I saw that they were needing an awful lot more supplies. When I saw how much they needed, I realized that I couldn’t fill their demands. By the way, there were an awful lot more people needing to be outfitted for a long journey that would be taking place soon. There will be a lot of wagons going this time. Not sure what it meant, I decided to obey the feelings I had about making an even bigger order. More than I ever have since we opened the mercantile. I was just wondering what you would think about what I have done.

After those dreams you have been having, along with these three waking dreams, I say you did the only thing you could do … make that order.

Sighing, Green visibly relaxed. Thank you. That makes me feel a whole lot better. Minnie sat silently studying her hands. Growing anxious, Green asked, What’s on your mind, darling?

I hesitate to say what has been coming to me since you shared your dreams. I don’t want to make you angry with me, but as it’s pertains to this situation, I feel that I must. Yet, I feel reluctant to broach the subject.

If you feel that strong about it, then by all means say what is on your mind. Rising to pace the room, Minnie appeared scared to speak. Please, I need to know what you are thinking, Minnie.

Minnie studied Horace’s face for a minute longer then plopping back onto her vacated seat, she began to speak. Darling, I know how you hate to have anyone speak about the Indians. I can even understand your reasons for feeling this way. When she saw the look of anger wash over Green’s face, she hastened to add. Darling, hate is a terrible thing to live with. It is a demanding taskmaster that will ultimately destroy your life.

What has this got to do with the dreams or visions that I have been having?

A lot. If you continue to harbor those feelings of hatred, you will be blinded by the things that are the most important in your life now.

I disagree!

When I spoke to Mr. Thompson the last time he was here, he told me how hatred had destroyed the Major at Fort Owens. He said that he became so embittered by his intense hatred that it blinded him to all that was right and wrong. I’m afraid that your hatred, although well founded, will destroy you, too.

I have been really struggling with those same feelings lately. I have even been thinking of speaking to Reverend Stokes. I just don’t know how to approach the subject with him.

Perhaps, if you prayed about it, you will come up with a way of explaining it.

I’ve never prayed before in my entire life. I don’t even know how.

"Just say what is in your heart. Speak