Little Moses

By Connie Seibert and Sandy Maxwell

Frontier Soldier is a story about certain young men finding their place in a world full of strife and danger while the Civil War rages. It’s a story of these men finding strength in the bonds of friendship as they head west to face adventures and trials that most surely will come their way. In Frontier Soldier you’ll also find women of strength and courage, who, in spite of the hardships of frontier life, bring beauty and joy to their men as they venture to the wild, western frontier.

Lies! His life was a lie and facing that lie could get him hung. Starting a new chapter in his life, Dr. Joe McCall realizes he doesn’t want to live a life of deception. But how can he regain his honor along with his rightful name? At an art exhibit in Philadelphia he meets a young western artist who seems to have faith enough to move mountains. The artist, Aaron Trinity, helps Joe realize there might be a way to face his past and have the life he really longs for. Together, they devise a plan that will hopefully bring Joe back into God’s, and the laws, good graces.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Connie Seibert
• Release date: Mar 26, 2015
• ISBN: 9781310841354

Connie Seibert

Connie lives in Salmon, Idaho, with her husband, Ron, of fifty-three years. They have two grown sons who also live in Salmon, and they enjoy being a part of their grand children's lives. Being a pastor's wife has given her a wide range of experience with all ages and types of people. A passion for reading western fiction inspired her to try her hand at writing a clean, wholesome story that can be enjoyed by anyone who loves a western adventure. Sandy, her sister, has partnered with her in writing this book. She lives in Twin Falls, Idaho, with her husband, Roger. They have children and grandchildren in Louisiana, Texas, and Idaho.

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

Oh, fizzles, Mother! I don't think my backside can take one more bump like that one. Fourteen year old Jasmine Silcott gripped the sides of the wooden seat as the wagon bounced and swayed. I almost went flying out of the wagon!

Jasmine Elizabeth Silcott! I will not have you talking that way. You're a young lady; I won't tolerate that kind of talk, especially with this nice young man in the wagon with us. What would your father say?

Jasmine smiled smugly. He would no doubt agree with me and say all wagon seats should be padded. She tossed her head and glanced across at the other passenger, hoping she had elicited some kind of reaction from him. He sat quietly, eyes averted, as he had done throughout the entire trip. She was disappointed.

That's enough, now. We'll arrive at Fort Laramie sometime today, and I want you to be on your best behavior. You cause any trouble and your father will send us right back home.

Jasmine decided to be agreeable, so she put on her best apologetic face. Fake as it was, her mother didn't seem to notice. I'm sorry, Mother. I'll be good. I'm just bored.

Mrs. Silcott turned to the only other passenger in the army wagon, peering down her nose at him. Her tone was condescending as she finally addressed him. Well, young man, we've been riding in this wagon for days now, and you've hardly spoken a word to us. Can you at least come to my aid on this last day and tell us something about yourself? My daughter is in need of some distraction. You could start by telling us your name.

He had tried, and so far succeeded, in avoiding any conversation with the woman and her daughter. But now, cornered as he was, he thought of Sister Ruth at the convent and how she had helped him with his speech impediment. Taking a deep breath, he slowly said, Moses, ma'am.

Moses. Well, now, that's quite different. I don't think I've ever heard of anyone with that name, except Moses in the Bible, of course. I suppose you stutter too just like Moses in the Bible. She gave a short laugh, amused at herself.

Jasmine giggled at her mother's attempt at humor. I don't know of anyone who stutters, Mother, unless they are, you know, slow or dull-witted. She looked pointedly at Moses, eyes narrowed. Why did your mother name you that anyway?

Moses felt all the frustration of the last several days overpowering his good judgment. He was rather tired of the woman's stuffiness and the spoiled daughter's whining and demanding ways. He decided to dole out his own justice, knowing it was the wrong thing to do. My m-m-mother d-d-didn't name me M-M-Moses. S-S-She a-a-abandoned me. She l-l-left me in s-s-some weeds at the b-b-back d-door of a c-convent. The n-n-nuns f-f-found me in a b-b-basket s-s-so they n-n-named me Little M-M-Moses.

Laughter filled the wagon. What a sense of humor you have, young man. You're teasing us. Your name really isn't Moses and you don't stutter, I'm sure.

He sat tall and straight, unsmiling, looking right at the woman. After wiping her eyes with a handkerchief that had miraculously appeared out of her sleeve, a shocked expression came over her face. She looked at the serious young man seated across from her. "You are teasing us, aren't you?"

N-N-No, ma'am.

The woman had the decency to turn several shades of red. Oh, dear. I'm so sorry. I must apologize. I truly didn't mean to offend you. Is it painful to speak?

N-N-No, just f-f-frustrating.

Well, don't feel like you have to talk if you don't want to.

Th-Th-Thank you, m-m-ma'am.

Jasmine had a horrified look on her face. Being trapped in a wagon with a slow, dull-witted man was not to her liking. She turned in her seat, away from Moses, so she wouldn't have to look at him. Mother and daughter talked in quiet conversation off and on, but for the rest of the journey the two females ignored Moses, which suited him just fine.

The wagon was nowhere near being a luxury. It was an army wagon that had a top to keep the sun and weather out, with heavy canvas-type curtains on the sides that could be opened or closed as needed. Moses had been granted permission to ride in the wagon since he was looking for a military man. His two traveling companions were going to meet their husband and father who was an officer at Fort Laramie.

Little darts of consciences stabbed at Moses. I know, Sister Martha, I should not have stuttered like that on purpose. As painful as it was, everything he had told Mrs. Silcott was the truth. One of the sisters at the convent had worked with him on his stuttering. She had him practice taking deep breaths, then slowly annunciate each word carefully. He had gotten to where he could control his stuttering most of the time if he took his time and spoke slowly, the only exception being if he was extremely nervous. There was no need for me to embarrass these two ladies. I know it must be a sin because I enjoyed it so much. He fought a smile that wanted to spread across his face. I'll have to confess it when I say my prayers. Sister Martha would certainly agree with that. The thought of Sister Martha and all the other nuns, made him close his eyes, lean against the frame of the wagon, and remember the haven of safety the convent had been to him.

The sisters had tried to find a home for him. He had seemed to be a weak and sickly baby, so no one had wanted him. He was raised by a woman who lived in a small house on the grounds of the convent and who cleaned and cooked for the sisters. Always kind and loving, she had been the only mother Moses had known. The sisters had taken it upon themselves to see to his schooling. Moses didn't know it, but he was far more educated than most children. His life had been mostly a woman's world with very few men around.

The convent's old gardener had doted on Moses and would take him to town in the supply cart. Realizing he was quite different from other children, Moses stayed to himself. On rare occasions when families would visit the convent, Moses always remained in the background. He appeared to be shy, and his stuttering seemed to make most people uncomfortable. They didn't know how to deal with his slow, stammering speech. With these thoughts of his childhood, Moses drifted off to sleep, only to be awakened sometime later with a start. The wagon had stopped.

What is it, Mother? Jasmine's demanding voice further stirred him into his present surroundings. Can you see what's happening? Are we at the fort?

We'll know in a minute, dear. Here comes that nice Corporal Sharp. He will tell us what's going on.

Corporal Sharp appeared in the opening at the side of the wagon. Ma'am, we are at the ferry crossing. It might be a good idea to get out and stretch a little. It'll take a while for all of us to get across the river. We'll send the wagons across first with a few of the men and then the rest of us can go over.

Thank you, Corporal. It will be a blessing to get out and stretch.

The corporal helped the ladies out of the wagon, then pointed to an area where a stand of trees sheltered an outhouse. If you care to walk that way, ma'am, you can wait in the shade. Just be careful to watch for snakes.

Snakes? What kind of snakes? Mrs. Silcott looked startled.

Rattlesnakes, ma'am. They're the only poisonous snakes around this area. Just watch where you put your feet, and you'll be fine. Call if you need anything.

Moses was sure he saw the corporal smile as he turned to walk away. He would probably laugh out loud at me if he knew how afraid of snakes I am. It makes my skin crawl just thinking about running into one.

The crossing did take a while. Moses stood off by himself, as he usually did. When it came time for him to board the ferry with the others, he felt jittery and anxious. I wish I knew how to swim. His stomach churned. If I end up in the river, I’m a goner. How much more am I going to have to endure before I reach my destination? Wherever that is.

Moses cautiously made his way to the front of the ferry, where everyone else had gathered. He grasped the railing, trying not to think of the muddy-looking water moving underneath him. The ferry rocked with the motion of the river, making his heart drop to his toes. Don't dwell on the bad. Don't dwell on the bad. Think to the good of the future. Immediately a hundred doubts crowded into his mind. What future? I guess I have one, but whatever it's going to be, I can't imagine. If I don't get some kind of lead here at Fort Laramie, I have nowhere else to go. My funds are almost gone.

Corporal Sharp's voice interrupted his thoughts. Let's get down the ramp and into the wagon, Moses. They're waiting for us. How long had he been standing there wallowing in his negative thoughts? Embarrassment colored his face, but he only nodded and followed the corporal to the waiting wagon.

The Silcott ladies had already been helped into the wagon. The heavy canvas curtains were pulled back so they could get a better look at what would be their home for the next few months, namely Fort Laramie. As Jasmine excitedly chattered to her mother, Moses began to survey the area around him. This is certainly different than I thought it would be. There are no high walls for protection. It's not like any of the pictures I've seen of forts. And not like any I've seen on this trip. Fort Laramie was on a bluff overlooking the Platte River and seemingly sprawled out all over the area. A part of it was definitely military, and that's where the wagon headed.

As they pulled alongside a building, the wagon came to a halt. The sign on the front indicated the officers’ quarters. A distinguished-looking officer came out the door with a big smile on his face. Maddie, Jasmine, you're finally here!

Daniel, you look wonderful. He helped his wife and daughter down from the wagon and the family embraced, then walked into the building.

Moses jumped off the wagon and stepped onto the porch. He took in his surroundings at the same time dusting off his new brown suit. Holding his new fedora in one hand, he opened the door and stepped into the building. The officer and his family were still holding onto each other and chatting happily over their reunion. Moses waited quietly, not wanting to interrupt. Finally, the officer turned and addressed him, Do you need something, young man?

I-I-I'm looking for s-s-someone, sir.

The officer stared at him for a few moments. A military man?

Moses made himself slow down and breathe deeply. He managed to answer without stuttering, I believe so, sir. He hated the look of pity on the officer's face and the way the women turned from him. It’s times like this I could crawl in a hole and never come out but I can’t give up now. His quest kept him standing resolutely before the officer.

Private Johnston, the officer said gruffly to a soldier sitting behind a desk. See to this man's needs. He then turned back to his family and ushered them through a door to another part of the building, their murmured conversations of slow and dull-witted fading into the background.

I need to get a grip. I should be used to it by now. Moses eyed the private coming around the side of the desk. He was sure the looks of pity and feelings of discomfort would start all over again. It just never seems to end.

Instead, Private Johnston flashed a big grin and with a wink, motioned to the door. Let's hurry and get out of here. Maybe we can make it in time for the last race. You got here just in time. He held the door open and followed Moses out onto the porch. Thanks for rescuing me, by the way. I really want to see that race.

A man was out front starting to unload the wagon. Where do all these trunks and cases go? he asked the private.

Are any of these yours? Private Johnston asked Moses.

The t-t-two b-b-brown ones are m-m-mine.

Put the two brown ones in the office here. The rest will go up to the major's quarters. He turned back to Moses. Come on. Let's hurry. What's your name anyway? he asked as he took off down the steps.

M-M-Moses.

Don't let that stutter bother you when you're with me. I had a little brother who stuttered. Loved that kid. He died of the cholera two years ago. Private Johnston had taken off in a brisk walk but Moses had no trouble keeping up with him. He loved to walk and it felt good to stretch his legs after being in a wagon for so long. Johnston saw another fellow soldier and hailed him. Hey, Calders, when is the last race?

I heard in about forty-five minutes. It's going to be a good one, don't miss it!

Thanks, Calders. To Moses, he said, Good, we have time to run over to the infirmary and talk to Doc Stevens. He's been here longer than anyone I know of. If the man you're looking for is here, Doc would know about him. They crossed the road and Private Johnston slowed down a little. There's a man who has a horse ranch up north, sells horses to the military. He has a stallion that is some son of a gun! Never seen anything like it. A thoroughbred that can beat any horse around here. He's offered a prize of twenty dollars to anyone who can beat him in a race and there's already been two races. Boy, this is going to be exciting! There's another rancher who heard about the race and put in another twenty for the winner. He's going to race his own horse. I think there are five competing for the forty dollars.

They stopped in front of the infirmary. Here we are. Let's go in and see what Doc says. He led the way into the building. Sitting at a small desk with paperwork before him, was a middle aged man with a bushy head of dark brown hair and eyebrows to match. He had a scowl on his face when he looked up.

You sick, Johnston?

No, sir. This man here is looking for someone. Since you've been here longer than anyone I know of, thought you could probably help him out.

Well, speak up then, he said, looking at Moses. Who is it you're looking for?

The doctor had an intimidating manner, and Moses could feel his throat tightening. He took a deep breath and slowly answered, Scott Trinity, sir.

Captain Trinity? Sure, I knew him. He was a fine soldier and a good leader. I liked him more than most.

Moses had a sinking feeling. It sounded like Scott Trinity was dead or had left. He hesitated, wanting to ask another question, but Private Johnston jumped in to help. Is he gone then, Doc?

Yes, he retired from the army and left with another man. As I understand it, he was going north to do some trapping and gold panning. Don't remember the other man's name, but I didn't like him much. Hated to see Trinity leave, especially with that man for company.

Is there anything else you can think of, Doc that might help find him?

Scratching his head and thinking a few minutes, the doctor told them that it had been about a year ago that Trinity had left. In that length of time, a man could be anywhere. Wish I could be more help, young man, but that's about all I can tell you. The only other persons who might know something is at the trading post. They know more of the comings and goings of civilians. Maybe they know something.

Sure, I hadn't thought of that. Thanks, Doc. Let's get going, Moses. We'll go watch that race then see what we can find out.

As they left the infirmary a sense of hopelessness hit Moses full force. All the trouble I've been through the last nine months and for nothing.

Private Johnston sensed his discouragement and stopped. He put a hand on Moses' shoulder. Don't give up just yet, Moses. Maybe we can still find out something about Mr. Trinity.

It l-l-looks h-hopeless to m-me.

We'll see. Come on, now, let's enjoy this race.

They headed to the outskirts of the fort where a large crowd was gathered. Private Johnston proved to be a congenial man, and Moses liked being around him. He soon found himself getting caught up in the excitement of the crowd. Soldiers, cowboys, ranchers, Indians, even a few women were milling about waiting for the final race to begin. Here comes the horses, Private Johnston said, nudging Moses. Gee, there’s some fine-looking horseflesh out there! See the man on the big gray stallion? He's the one who has the horse ranch up north. That dark brown stallion with the black mane and tail looks like it might be a quarter horse. He belongs to the other rancher who put up another twenty dollars. It’s a mile race, out to that post and back. Wow! This is going to be good! Wish I had some money to bet.

Moses took a deep breath and said slowly, Which one would you bet on?

I think I would take a chance on that dark brown stallion. That pretty appaloosa looks like she could give them a run for their money. I heard someone say she came from the wagon train camped out south of the fort. All Right, now, they’re lining up.

As five horses and their riders lined up, Moses felt the tension in the crowd. He watched the riders rein in the eager horses, ready for the run. Then the starting gun went off and the brown stallion bolted a length ahead of the others. Johnston yelled his support along with the cheering crowd, yelling for their favorite horse. The stallion stayed in the lead for the first half with the gray thoroughbred and the appaloosa a length behind. On the turn around the post the appaloosa got ahead of the brown stallion. Three quarters of the way back the rider on the gray thoroughbred leaned into the neck of his horse and gave him permission to give it his all.

Look at that, Moses!

The gray took off like he had just been playing around, and when he went over the finish line was a full two lengths ahead of the appaloosa. The crowd roared its approval.

It’s a good thing I didn’t have any money. I sure would’ve lost it all. Johnston yelled over the noise of the crowd. That’s the best race I’ve ever seen. Let’s go see if we can get a better look at that gray stallion and maybe congratulate the owner.

The two jostled their way through the crowd toward the horses, but everyone else seemed to have the same idea. Johnston wasn’t one to give up easily. He pressed through with Moses on his heels until they were close enough to hear the riders talking to each other. The rider of the gray was telling the other man that he had speed in his own stallion, Diablo, but he needed a good cattle-working horse to breed a solid ranch horse.

Well, in my opinion, you won’t find a better cattle horse than a quarter horse, but Thunder here isn’t for sale. My brother has a three-year-old that might be just what you need. If the horse turns out like I think he will and my brother is interested, we’ll leave word next spring at the post on how to find us. My name is Jim Norris, and my brother is Carl.

I’m Paul Miles, and I appreciate your help. Actually, my stepfather, Scott Trinity, will be the one buying the horse. We’re partners on the High Meadows Horse Ranch.

Private Johnston grabbed Moses by the arm. Did you hear that, Moses? Can’t be two Scott Trinitys around here.

The two horsemen shook hands then Paul turned his horse around, trying to get him out of the crush of the crowd. Just as Moses stepped closer, he was knocked to the ground by the shoulder of the big horse, and landed on his backside. Suddenly, hands were lifting him to his feet, and people were exclaiming:

You trying to get yourself killed!

Are you all right?

Holding tight to Diablo, Paul was off his horse in an instant. Don’t you know anything, man? You could’ve been seriously hurt or worse!

Moses stood still, looking into the faces of four cowboys and feeling about as stupid as the fly that landed on the horse’s rump and got whisked away by the flick of a tail. Private Johnston took hold of his arm and spoke up. Now, don’t get all prickly, gentlemen. Moses didn’t mean any harm. He was only trying to stop you, is all.

Paul Miles, still disturbed that he had knocked the young man down, challenged the soldier, And who are you?

I am the man who just witnessed the best race I’ve ever seen. Congratulations on the win. That sure is a magnificent horse you have there. My name is Johnston, and this man here just came in today. He is looking for a Mr. Scott Trinity, and I believe I heard you mention the name.

One of the four cowboys, a distinguished looking older man, got into the conversation. What about Scott Trinity? He’s a friend of mine. What do you want with him?

Moses answered too fast and regretted it. It’s of a p-p-personal n-n-nature, sir. A v-very im-m-port-t-ant m-matter. C-c-could you p-please help me f-f-find him? He saw the pity in their faces and hated it. But there was no way to escape what was a part of him.

The older man put his hand out to Moses. I’m Seth Swanson. I own the Double S Ranch up north. This here is my son, Marty Swanson. My neighbor and good friend here, is Justin Myers. My other neighbor, the one who knocked you on your backside, is Paul Miles. Paul knows horseflesh and owns his own ranch. We all know where Scott Trinity is living. If it’s all right with the boys, I don’t see why we can’t take you to him.

Th-Th-thank you, sir. I -I’m grateful. S-S-Sorry I caused a s-scare with the h-h-horse.

Paul, assured that no one was injured, relaxed and smiled. "It’s

all right. I’m just glad you weren’t hurt."

Mr. Swanson told Moses that he would need to go with them right now. Do you have anything with you?

Johnston answered, He has a couple of cases at the officers’ quarters, sir. It’s right over that way.

Yes, we know where it is. Justin, since you’re driving the supply wagon, swing around and pick up this man and his cases, then bring him on down to the camp. I think we’re all done with our business here, so we can leave first thing in the morning. That alright with everyone? The men agreed and left to go their separate ways.

Johnston turned and put his hands on Moses’s shoulders, looking him in the eyes. Moses, I think you just got a miracle from God himself dropped right in your lap. Meeting those men like we did proves it.

Smiling at the thought, Moses nodded in agreement. I c-c-can’t thank y-y-ou enough, J-J-Johnston. I-I hope w-w-we can see e-e-each other again.

Who knows, Moses, who knows? Maybe someday we will.

When Justin pulled the wagon up to the front of the officers’ quarters, Moses shook hands with Private Johnston. Taking a deep breath, he said his goodbye. Th-Th-thank you, again. God b-bless you. He tossed his cases in the back of the wagon then climbed up on the seat beside Justin.

Private Johnston’s final words crowded into Moses’ heart and promised to stay there for a long time, Goodbye, friend!

In just a few hours, Moses had made his very first friend. Friend. I like the sound of that.

The wagon pulled up to the campsite just as the sun was slipping behind the mountains. The evening air was getting cool. I’ve got to take care of the mules, Moses. Why don’t you go on over to the fire. There’ll be coffee ready and maybe even some grub.

Moses nodded and jumped down from the wagon. He went over to where the men were sitting around the fire. Come on over and sit, young man, Seth Swanson invited. Did I hear your name right? Moses, isn’t it?

Y-Yes, sir.

Do you have a last name to go with it?

Just M-M-Moses is fine, s-s-sir.

All right then, Moses. Do you have a bedroll with you?

N-N-No, sir.

Well, we’ll scare something up for you. Those women of ours always send extra. Bless them. It’s going to get a little cold tonight, I’m afraid. I may need an extra blanket, myself. The older I get, the harder this ground gets. I can’t handle the cold as well as I used to either. I may just have to stay home from now on and let these young men do the gallivanting.

You’re not that old, Dad. Mother just has you spoiled, Marty teased.

You all s-s-sleep on t-t-the g-ground?

Sure. Haven’t you ever been camping, Moses? Marty asked.

No.

Justin came to the fire in time to save Moses from further questions. What’s for supper, gents?

Whatever you want to cook, Marty shot back.

Mr. Swanson pointed out the stump they were using for a table. There’s bread, cheese and ham. Oh, yeah, and cookies. Take Moses with you and help yourselves. The cookies are hard by now, but good for dipping in coffee. Moses needs a cup for his coffee too, Justin.

The men sat around the fire, eating and talking man-talk. Moses began to relax as he listened to their easy banter. It was obvious these were good men who had strong friendships. Justin was the first to mention sleep. I’m ready to hit the sack. How about the rest of you?

I was getting ready to suggest that same thing, Mr. Swanson said. He turned to Moses. Here’s an old heavy coat of mine. Use this ground cloth to lay on. It’ll keep you dry, and wrap this blanket around you. You should be warm. If you don’t want the coat for warmth, use it for a pillow. Anything else you might need?

Th-Th-This will b-b-be fine, s-s-sir. He waited till the men were under their blankets and settled in then slipped off a ways to be by himself. Kneeling on the ground, he recited the prayers that he had been taught. The wide open sky and dark night made it seem like a million stars were winking at him. What is it I’m feeling? These strange emotions are new to me. I think I feel excitement. Yes, I’m excited. I think it must have started with the horse race. Being around all the soldiers and Johnston, my new friend, I caught their enthusiasm. Moses smiled as it finally came to him. Being with men! That’s what it is. I’ve been around men all day, and I loved it too. That thought caused his stomach to tighten. Will I ever, in a hundred years, be able to fit into a man’s world? These are real men. How I wish I could be like them, to have a wife and family to love and care for.

Marty heard his father leave and soon return to his bed. You check on him, Dad?

Yeah, he’s fine. He’s over yonder on his knees, praying.

You don’t say. It’ll be interesting to hear his story. Night, Dad.

Night, son.

CHAPTER TWO

We’ll get home sometime today, Moses. You’ve probably noticed already that we’ve been climbing since yesterday. Those distant foothills, that’s home.

T-T-Tell me about it, Justin. After three days of riding on the wagon, Moses had gotten comfortable with his traveling companion. Justin had taken an interest in telling him about the country they were passing through and entertained him with stories about past trips through the big basin, Fort Laramie, and Indian encounters. He talked at length about his blood brother, Black Feather, and how he had met and fallen in love with his special Angel. Moses soaked in all the information and let his imagination soar listening to the stories. He had relaxed and enjoyed his time with Justin the last couple of days. But this third day was a different matter. Knowing his search was finally coming to an end, nothing could calm him for what was ahead. He tried to concentrate on what Justin was describing.

If you look real close, you can see the tree line about a third of the way up the mountain. Two of the ranches are just at the tree line. We’ll get to the Double S Ranch first. That’s the Swanson ranch. A few miles to the east is my place, the Paradise Ranch. There’s a small river that separates the two ranches. The Swanson’s graze their cattle on the west side of the river, and we graze ours on the east side. Mr. Swanson and my dad were the first two men to start up cattle ranches in this area. No one else ranches around here, but with all the people moving west, it probably won’t be long before we’ll have neighbors. Paul’s horse ranch is about two miles up into the mountains. It’s a beautiful place. You’ll have to see it yourself to appreciate it. It was a dream come true for Paul to get his ranch going. His father died a few years back before it was all finished. Just last year, his family pulled it all together and they’ve made a great start.

Do you w-w-work with your f-father?

No, my father died when I was eleven. He took sick one winter and coughed for weeks. Mom says he got pneumonia. I have a stepfather now, and then there’s our ranch hand, Bill Gray, who’s been with us for years. We picked up another man last year, Mack McCallister. He’s a preacher too. Come to think of it, today is Sunday. Everyone will be getting together for church services. Maybe you’ll get to meet most of them at one time. I can’t wait to see my wife and new daughter.

You have a d-d-daughter?

Yes, Charity Marie. She’s as beautiful as her mother. I was just getting acquainted with her when we had to leave on this trip. You’ll get to meet my mother, Judith, and my stepfather, Travis Buchannon. Travis worked as a foreman on the Swanson Ranch for a long time. He finally got brave enough to ask my mother to marry him last year. He’s a great guy. He works at both ranches now.

Moses was quiet for a while, thinking of how proud Justin sounded when he talked about his family. Someday…someday…I’ll have a family of my own. Oh, God, my heart aches, to belong…to have someone who cares.

Justin interrupted his thoughts. Moses, are you getting nervous? I don’t know what business you have with Scott Trinity, but if it helps any, I can tell you he’s a good man. Mr. Swanson and Scott have become close friends. We all really like him and I think you will, too.

Th-th-thanks, Justin. I h-h-ope you’re right. Only t-t-time will tell.

By late morning, they began to see cattle grazing out in the fields. Moses was amused at the calves darting here and there, some nudging their mothers’ undersides, trying to find lunch. This winter wasn’t too bad, and we had a good crop of calves this spring. We’ll be needing to do some branding before too long. Maybe you can get in on some of that fun if you stay a while.

In a few moments, Paul and Marty came riding back to the wagon. We’re going to hang out with you two now, Marty said. My dad is going to ride on in to the ranch and let them know we’re coming. Hope he tells them to have food on the table when we get there. I feel like I could eat a whole plate of beef steak by myself. Don’t appreciate Mom’s and my wife’s good cooking until I don’t have it around for awhile.

You two go on ahead. We’ll be all right, Justin said.

No, we better stay with you. That back wheel looks wobbly, and you might need some help if it decides to fall off.

Yeah, I noticed it back there a ways, but I think it’ll make it to the ranch. We’ll be glad for your company though.

For the rest of the way, all three of the young men talked of home. They were anxious to see their wives and put away some good hot food. They talked of the summer ahead of them and all the work that needed to be done.

Moses watched and listened.