Chapter Two,
The Drive to Auntie's
The Drive to Auntie's
The Drive to Auntie's
Chapter 2
The next morning the girls heard a light knocking on the bedroom door. “It’s time to wake up,” said Erwin, cheerfully.
“Come in Papa,” said Serenity, sleepily, not believing it could possibly be morning already. Maybe he’s just teasing, she thought, and we still have hours to go.
Slowly he opened the door. When seeing the girls pulling the bedcovers up to their chins he looked away. While opening the curtains to allow in the sun he asked, “I thought you both would be up and about by now. Aren’t you still going?”
The sunlight bathed the room with brightness which caused Serenity to hold a pillow over her face, and peek out at him from under it.
“Yes, we intend to go, Uncle Erwin,” moaned Jeanetta Lynn. “But isn’t it too early to be getting up?” When seeing the sunshine she pulled the bedcovers over her head.
“It’s a little before six, and if we get a move on, have breakfast and do the chores we should be at your parents home by eight. If your parents say that you can go this will give you an hour to collect your things, and both of you be on the road by nine,” he explained.
“You know, he’s right,” admitted Jeanetta Lynn, pulling the pillow off Serenity’s face and looking at her.
“I never thought I’d ever hear you say that when it comes to getting up early,” chucked Uncle Erwin. “I’ll let you two get ready while I tend to my chores. I’ll be back in after the buggy is ready to go, and by then breakfast should be on the table.”
“Thank you Papa,” said Serenity, just before she yawned. “As soon as I finish packing we’ll go in and help Momma.”
“I think she’d like that,” he replied, flashing his daughter a wink before closing the door.
The girls slowly climbed out of bed, and when placing their feet on the cold floor Jeanetta Lynn leaped right back into bed. “I take it that your feet have never had to endure a cold floor?” kidded Serenity.
“Many times, and my reactions have always been the same,” Jeanetta Lynn laughed, while slowly slipping her feet back down.
“It’s a good thing we did most of my packing before going to bed,” said Serenity, while pulling open her dresser drawers to make sure there wasn’t anything left that she might need.
When seeing something red Jeanetta Lynn pulled it out to see what it might be. “When did you get this?” she asked while admiring the beautiful scarf.
“My parents ordered it through your father, it was my birthday gift. Do you think I should bring it?” she asked.
While holding the scarf against her cheek Jeanetta Lynn whispered, “I’d bring it even if I didn’t need it.”
“Then I’ll bring it?” Serenity giggled.
“It’s too beautiful to leave behind,” chuckled Jeanetta Lynn, while handing it back to her.
“Can you think of anything else I might need?” Serenity asked, as she folded and placed the scarf in her carpetbag.
“Let’s take inventory,” suggested Jeanetta Lynn.
“Okay, here goes,” said Serenity, “The red scarf. . . ”
“Good choice,” laughed Jeanetta Lynn.
Serenity smiled as she continued the list, “Shoes, dress, stockings, bloomers, petticoat, brush and comb, personal things, yep, that just about covers it.”
“Not everything,” said Jeanetta Lynn.
“What else are we forgetting?” Serenity questioned.
“The brass box,” reminded Jeanetta Lynn. “I’ll put it in with my things being your bag is pretty full.”
“You’re right, we should bring it with us,” said Serenity, watching Jeanetta Lynn stuffing it deep into her bag, and closing it up. “Now, we’re ready?”
“Yes, let’s get out of here before anything goes wrong. Such as a blue-green glow coming out from my carpetbag,” warned Jeanetta Lynn.
Heading down the steps they entered the kitchen where the aroma of breakfast drifted about the room.
“Momma, that smells wonderful,” said Serenity. “Is there anything we can do to help?”
“Thank you for offering,” she replied, “I would appreciated it if you two would set the table.”
The girls brought out the table wear and started in just as Erwin walked in. When seeing them he asked, “Are you both ready?”
“Yes we are,” Serenity replied, with a big grin.
“Momma, you are coming with us aren’t you?” asked Serenity.
“Please Aunt Lydia; it’s been a while since you both have visited my parents,” pleaded Jeanetta Lynn.
“You can count on it,” she replied, “You both will need all the convincing power you can get on your side. Though I would prefer that you weren’t going.”
“Dear, I feel the same, but they are growing up and we need to give them a little slack this time,” said Erwin, helping her into the chair as the girls brought out the food and sat it on the table. “It won’t be long before they both will be grown up, and seeking out a home of their own. So it’s best if we allow them to learn as much as they can now while we have some control over their future.”
“I don’t know if William and Virginia will agree with your evaluation of the situation,” Lydia replied as he scooted her chair up to the table.
“Then let’s do all we can to help them see things our way,” Erwin replied.
“Don’t you mean YOUR way?” she laughed.
“Okay, my way,” he answered, “But in time you’ll see that I’m right.”
They ate quickly and when the dishes were washed and put away it was time to go. The girls brought out their carpetbags, and Erwin placed them in before helping everyone up into the buggy. Once climbing up onto the seat he took the reins in hand and urged his mare forward at a good clip.
As they traveled along Jeanetta Lynn and Serenity were caught up in conversation until Erwin drove close to where Jeanetta Lynn's father had set Crazy Bill free. When remembering the event fear flooded through her as if at any minute the rooster would fly out to attack from one of the nearby trees.
“What’s wrong?” asked Serenity.
“Do you see Crazy Bill anywhere?” asked Jeanetta Lynn, shooting glances in every direction almost at once.
“Is this where it attacked Uncle William?” asked Serenity, now doing the same, trying hard to see the rooster.
“Yes, and if he’s still out there I want Uncle Erwin to hurry up,” said Jeanetta Lynn. “The last thing we need is to have another run-in with it.”
“Papa, please keep an eye out for Crazy Bill,” Serenity called out. “It’s here Uncle William was attacked.”
“That I’ll be doing,” he replied, as he hurried their mare to a quicker pace. Then when looking off into the distance he added, “There’s a man relaxing on a fallen log while eating. If that rooster was nearby I’m sure things wouldn’t be so peaceful.”
Just as Lydia was about to reply, they saw the man shoot off the log screaming while thrashing his arms about frantically. Crazy Bill had attached himself to the back of the man’s neck and shoulders, and was flapping about wildly while it pecked away. When the man’s horse saw what was going on it bolted off for a distance before stopping, leaving its master afoot.
Erwin grabbed his rifle and aimed carefully, but realizing that he couldn’t shoot without possibly hitting the man he aimed high and fired. This startled both the man and rooster, causing Crazy Bill to let go, fluttering away toward the underbrush. Erwin drove his buggy close to where the man had fallen to the ground. The found him with his arms still covering the back of his head in a feeble attempt of warding off further assaults.
“Are you okay?” called out Erwin, as he leaped from the buggy. When running to the man he paused for an instant making sure the rooster wasn’t ready for another attack before venturing on.
“What in the world was that, and where did it come from?” yelled the man as he tried to sit upright.
“It’s a rogue rooster,” said Erwin. “Been attacking people for weeks, and no one knows who owns it.”
“A rooster?” he shouted in disbelief. “And no one’s killed it!”
“Your horse is grazing not far off, I’ll bring it back to you,” said Erwin, as Lydia hurried over to see if she could assist.
“Sir,” said Lydia. “I have some water that I can wash the blood off with.”
“How much is there?” he asked, lowering his hands.
“Not as much as I expected, though I’m sure it hurts far more than it looks,” she answered.
“Here’s your horse,” Erwin called out as he came running up with it in lead.
Once Lydia had finished tending to his wounds, the man managed to stand up, and took hold of the reins.
“Do you have far to travel?” Erwin asked, worried if he would be able to endure the trip.
“I’m on my way home,” he said. Finding a little humor in it he chuckled, “During the whole war I never received a scratch, and then I’m attacked by a rooster? If I were still with my troops I wouldn’t be hearing the last of it.”
“You were in the war?” asked Jeanetta Lynn. “What side did you fight on?”
“The losing side,” he mumbled. “But I’m slowly getting over it.”
“I’ve been told the roads aren’t safe because of angry soldiers, is this true?” asked Lydia.
“There are angry men on both sides, not just mine. Some wanted it to continue so they could do more vengeful killing,” he said, spitting off to the side. “Excuse me, ma’am, during the war I’ve lost a lot of my good manners. I’ll have to get used to being around decent folks again.”
“You’re excused,” said Lydia, as she smiled at him.
“When it comes to these marauders, I wouldn’t give it much thought,” he replied.
“You’re sure of this?” asked Erwin. “My girls will be traveling by themselves for a ways, and we’re concerned over their safety.”
“They should be fine,” he replied. Then looking directly at the girls he added, “Just stick to the roads heavily traveled and stay clear of strangers, mostly anyone that looks as if they could be a soldier. And if you should find yourself in a situation a well placed buggy whip could change the minds of almost anyone.”
“Do you think it will come to that?” gasped Lydia, “It sounds as if it wouldn’t be safe for anyone.”
“Na, they’ll do just fine,” he comforted her, “I doubt if they will even have to use that whip.” When Lydia wasn’t looking he turned toward the girls and mouthed quietly, “Keep the whip close at hand.”
Jeanetta Lynn understood what he was trying to say, and nodded back at him.
“Where do you call home?” asked Serenity.
“Don’t know yet. But I’ll take any place where I won’t be asked about that blasted war again,” he said while placing his hat back upon his head.
Erwin took hold of the horse as the man got up into the saddle, and then stepped back asking, “Do you feel good enough to ride?
“I’ll do just fine,” he replied. When looking out at the trees he added, “But someone has to kill that rooster.”
“I’m sure if anyone gets a hold of it they’ll do just that,” Erwin assured him.
“Thanks again for your help ma’am,” he said as he tipped his hat to Lydia, and the girls, and then nodded to Erwin.
“Take care, and may God help you find the peace you’re looking for,” said Jeanetta Lynn.
The man only smiled, and tipped his hat again before riding off.
“Papa, do you think anyone else will be hurt by Crazy Bill?” asked Serenity.
“I sure hope not,” he replied, “But let’s get out of here before he takes to attacking us just for the fun of it.”
A short time later they were pulling up to the Parker’s place. When Jeanetta Lynn saw her father standing near the stable brushing down Misty she called out to him.
“I wasn’t expecting you for at least another couple hours,” Father replied. “Hello Lydia, it’s nice to see you. Jeanetta Lynn, please go in and let mother know that Uncle Erwin and Aunt Lydia are here. She was only expecting you Erwin, but to see Lydia too, she’s going to be very excited.”
"How was her visit?" William asked pleasantly of Erwin, “I hope she wasn’t any trouble.”
“She was a real angel as always,” said Lydia, as Erwin helped her down from the buggy.
“Dear brother-in-law, our girls have a request of you both,” Erwin chuckled.
“A request?” asked William.
“I think it would be best if we allowed the girls to ask for themselves,” suggested Lydia.
Erwin and the girls were warmly greeted with hugs and kisses by Virginia as they came through the front door. But when seeing Lydia she cried out joyfully, “My dear Sister, I’m overjoyed at seeing you, and was not expecting this pleasure! I’ll have to allow the girls to spend the night more often. Please, come in and tell me all about what’s been happening in your lives.”
“Dear, according to them the girls have something to ask of us,” said William as he ushered them into the parlor.
"Father, Mother,” Jeanetta Lynn started out, “Auntie gave Serenity a gift, sort of a joint gift, one we are to share. We were wondering if we could borrow the buggy so we could thank her personally."
Serenity held her breath unsure if Jeanetta Lynn would let anything about the gift slip out. Such as the bluish-green glow, the loud sound of rushing wind and water whirling about, or any other spooky things like that. She was relieved when Jeanetta Lynn continued without mentioning a word of it.
“Mother, wouldn’t it be proper for us to go there in person to thank her?” encouraged Jeanetta Lynn for a reply.
“You’ve discussed this with Uncle Erwin and Aunt Lydia?” she asked of Jeanetta Lynn.
“We gave Serenity permission, but only if you both give it to Jeanetta Lynn as well,” Erwin replied.
“I don’t know, Erwin, there are soldiers wondering about. What if they ran into them, then what?” asked Virginia, looking at her sister for a sign that she shared in her fears.
“Sister, on our way here we met a soldier heading west. He felt they would be safe, and Erwin seems to believe him,” said Lydia, glancing over at William, and then back at Virginia.
"So the final word is up to us?” asked William. “Then dear, what do you say?”
When looking at the girls she wanted to hide them both until they were much older, but instead she whispered, “Let them go.” Swallowing hard, she continued, “But under these conditions. They must leave as soon as Jeanetta Lynn is packed, and return in two days before nightfall.”
“I’ll go along with her on this one,” replied William, looking sternly at Jeanetta Lynn.
“I promise that we will!” squealed Jeanetta Lynn, “I won’t let you down.”
“Then I suggest you go, and pack your bags,” said Erwin.
“But before they do, Sister dear, do you have another carpetbag that she can use, for the one she brought to our home is very musty,” said Lydia.
“Jeanetta Lynn, please bring me your carpetbag,” said Virginia. As her daughter came near she cried out, "My goodness is that odor from your bag? Take it out onto the porch, and let it air out!”
“William dear, did you not smell it on our way to , how could we not being it’s so strong?” asked Virginia.
“I think we were too busy with that rooster to smell anything,” he replied.
"Yes, Mother. I’ll let it air out on the porch for a little while before packing,” said Jeanetta Lynn.
"There's no way it will be aired out in time," said Mother. "Take it out to the porch while I see what I can do to help you."
When the girls returned to the parlor there were two goodly-sized carpetbags waiting for her.
"I think these should do you very well," Mother said, stooping down to open them up one at a time.
"They are what your father and I used before you were born, and are still in very good shape. You may have them, if you would like."
"I can keep them both?” she asked in surprise. “Thank you, Mother;" she exclaimed, giving her a long hard hug. "This is wonderful! Now I can pack everything I want and still have room for anything Auntie should send back home with us!"
Looking over the bags William smiled, "I haven't seen these for a good many years. They were all we could afford at the time.”
"Well, I think we've said enough regarding the past, and future," advised Lydia. "Our daughters need to get going.”
Jeanetta Lynn and Serenity raced out of the parlor and up the stairs, both carrying a carpetbag. Rushing through the bedroom door they carelessly slammed it behind them.
“I guess they don’t need our help,” Lydia chuckled.
“They’re growing up aren’t they,” signed Virginia. “I’ll miss not having a little girl around.”
While the adults visited the girls went to work in packing for the trip.
“With these we can bring a whole lot more things we would have normally left behind,” said Jeanetta Lynn, while holding one open. “I’ll fill this one, and you can fill the other.
It didn’t take long before they came thundering down the stairs, returning to the parlor.
"Here's some food that we both put together," said Mother, "It will help time pass faster if your stomachs are not aching from hunger."
“Serenity, you both must stick to the main roads as the soldier advised,” cautioned Lydia.
“We will,” assured Serenity.
“And Jeanetta Lynn, if there are any signs of danger we want you both to get out of there quickly. Misty is a quick and fast mare. She will be able to put distance between you, and what danger is upon you,” said Mother.
"We’ll do that," said Jeanetta Lynn. "Mother, we'll be just fine. Remember, I still have Misty to harness so we should hurry if you want us to leave right away."
"I think your father and Uncle Erwin have taken care of that," said Aunt Lydia as she walked to the front door and opening it for them.
There was Misty patiently hitched to the buggy. Her father held the reins as he talked to Uncle Erwin.
"I guess you didn't notice that they weren’t in the parlor?" asked Lydia.
After kissing their mothers and aunts, and with food and bags in hand they rushed out to their fathers.
"We trust you both, and know you'll be just fine. It's your mothers who are so worried," said Erwin.
"Thank you again Papa for everything," Serenity said tearfully, hugging him tightly.
“Remember, be wise,” said Father, as he embraced Jeanetta Lynn.
“I will,” she assured him, giving him a kiss on the cheek. “We both will.”
Erwin helped the girls into the buggy as William tossed the carpetbags in behind them, and then handed over the reins to his daughter. When Jeanetta Lynn took them his hand remained cupped over hers. His fatherly instinct wanted to keep her from going, but she was growing up and he had to accept this.
“God will protect us, so please don’t worry,” assured Jeanetta Lynn.
He removed his hand and watched as Jeanetta Lynn slapped Misty on the rump with the reins, and guided her out onto the lane at a brisk flat walk.
Virginia had walked to where her husband stood, “I don’t want to see them go either,” she said.
“You’re right. Let’s go inside and relax. I need to get my mind on something else otherwise I’ll go crazy,” said William.
“I understand what you mean,” agreed Erwin as they headed inside.
“Erwin and Lydia, I’ll see if Lucy still has any of those cookies you both like so much,” said Virginia.
As they walked inside Virginia headed into the kitchen and reappeared with a dish filled with cookies while Lucy brought in a trey with four glasses of apple cider. After placing those on the coffee table in the parlor Virginia took a seat.
“These are the ones with the chunk of chocolate on top?” said Erwin. “I love those!”
“So does William,” said Virginia. “I think that’s why she makes them so often. Though there’s no way she could have known he would need a special treat today, and having chocolate always brighten his mood.”
“That it does,” chuckled William as he took three at one time and sat back in the sofa. “With this everything should look a whole lot better.”
“How are things at the mercantile these days?” asked Lydia. “Serenity told us that you have some more wonderful additions to it.”
“I think she’s talking about the machine you can mow a lawn with,” said William. “It’s a real winner.”
“I sure hope so being you’ve invested a lot of money in having one shipped here,” smiled Virginia.
“I’ve only had it in my store for a short time. If anything it’s a good conversation item that seems to bring people in,” said William. “Let me tell you about it.”
“I thought you were leading into this,” laughed Erwin. “But I can’t buy one no matter how wonderful it sounds.”
“I’m not expecting you to,” assured William. “But the history behind it is fantastic. The inventor is Mr. Edwin Beard Budding. He’s an engineer from Troud, Gloucestershire, England back in 1830. I’m unsure if he still lives or not. As you can see it’s not a new invention, just mostly new here. He got the idea when visiting a cloth mill and watching this cylinder blade cutting the cloth. He noticed that it made a smooth cut and figured if it could cut fabric that nicely then why not grass. He went to a local engineer, John Ferrabee, and together they made the prototype, and then started manufacturing them. I’ve been told that they are selling quickly in the big cities.”
“But how are they going to sell out here?” asked Lydia, “Sweetshire isn’t a big city, and most people could care less if their lawn is beautiful or not.”
“You may be right, but you never know,” smiled William, “this may well be a turning point in homeowner’s lives. Once one person sees their neighbor with a beautiful lawn they’ll want one for their own. And pretty soon there will a lawnmower in every stable.”
“I hope you’re right,” said Virginia, “And you wonder where Jeanetta Lynn comes up with some of her ideas. Dear, she’s just like you, a dreamer. But may this one come about just as you predict.”
Time slipped peacefully along as they planned for the future and talked about the past. When hearing a horse ridden up William went to see who it was. Upon finding Trey Smith, a neighbor who lived about a quarter mile from their home, dismounting his horse he called out. “Hi Trey, tie your horse up and come on in. You’re just in time to have some of Lucy’s cookies.”
“I’d ride a long ways to enjoy them if they’re the ones I hope they are,” said Trey. “The ones with the chocolate?”
“Sure are,” said William as his friend sprinted up the front steps.
“My family is here, you know my brother-in-law Erwin Stewart, and his wife is Virginia’s sister Lydia.” said William as they entered the parlor.
“Yes I do,” said Trey as he extended his hand to Erwin. “How has it been for you these days?”
“Pretty good,” replied Erwin. “I still haven’t finished mending the place after the battle was fought in my front yard, but it’s almost there.”
“It’s been a few years now, I would think it would be in prim condition by now,” said Trey.
“By the end of this year it will be. Erwin promised,” smiled Lydia.
“And I’m sure it will be,” said Trey. “Have you heard about what took place at the Smith’s the other day?”
“No,” said William, “But I’m sure you can fill us in on it.”
“I stopped in the other day,” started Trey, “I was bringing them supplies from town. Now that he’s getting up there in age he’s not as spry as he once were. But none of us are now days,” he chuckled. “I like to help out whenever I can, it’s the right thing to do.”
“Yes you do, and that’s a good thing. The Smiths have helped many of us when he was younger,” said Erwin.
“There had been a band of rebel soldiers there and left shortly before I showed up,” said Trey. “They were angry with how the war turned out.”
“There are many that feel the same way. So what makes them so important?” asked William.
“They in themselves are not important, it’s what they tried to do to Mrs. Smith,” said Trey.
“What did they do?” asked Lydia.
“According to Smith they barged into their cabin, and started to talk very rude to them both,” said Trey.
“When he asked them to leave they knocked him to the side and approached his wife. You know how frail she is. She screamed as the soldiers groped and started removing her clothing, all while telling her of their intentions. That’s when Smith managed to get his shotgun and aimed it at them. They quickly changed their mind when realizing a pant full of buckshot would be all they’d receive for their efforts.”
“The men did what?” gasped Virginia. “Gracious, what would have happened if she had been alone? Would they have violated her?”
“I’m sure they would have done more than that if they would have had a chance,” assured Trey.
“Do you have any idea where these men are now?” asked William.
“Smith said they were heading east on Carpenter road,” said Trey.
Hearing this William’s eyes shot over to Erwin, who was thinking the same thing and saying, “The girls!”
“I’m unhitching my mare,” said Erwin as both men raced for the door.
“Trey, I’m taking your horse,” William called back.
“Sure, but what do you need him for? Your daughters. . . . are they anywhere in that area?” asked Trey.
“Yes, I dare say they are,” replied Virginia as she followed William out and stood on the porch.
“I didn’t come here to alarm anyone,” explained Trey.
Barging past him Lydia also headed for the door. “I’m glad you did. If this took place as you said, then our daughters may well be in danger,” she called back to him.
Putting down the glass Lucy had brought him, Trey went outside as well. “How long ago did they leave?” he asked.
“Long enough” shouted William.
Once William and Erwin were mounted they took off at a dead run. Miles always seem further when emergencies arise, and even as fast as they were traveling it seemed to take them forever.
Meanwhile the girls were in deep thought as Misty traveled along at a fast jog.
"I've always been able to figure things out on my own, so why not regarding the brass box?” Jeanetta Lynn asked.
“It’s far beyond our knowledge and reasoning,” Serenity replied.
“You’re right,” agreed Jeanetta Lynn, “We’ll have to leave this one up to Auntie. I’m sure she’ll clear it up in a jiffy. So let’s not worry about it.”
“I don’t know about you, but I’m still uneasy with it here,” said Serenity. “If we could have left it behind that would have been okay with me.”
“I know how you feel, but we couldn’t. Otherwise why would we be on this trip? Okay, let’s talk about something else, this should get your jitters under control,” suggested Jeanetta Lynn.
While driving along the ridiculous ways they seemed to get into trouble went racing through their memory.
"Remember when our fathers put up the rope swings in Auntie's garden?" asked Jeanetta Lynn. "The first night we swung until almost dark, and even wanted to sleep in them."
"I'm so glad they wouldn't allow us to do so. Could you have seen us all alone in the dark? We would've gone screaming back to the house at the first croak of a frog!" Serenity laughed, "and how about the time when Auntie's dog, Skipper, went sailing into the air?”
"I remember that,” laughed Jeanetta Lynn. “He would bark wildly at us as we flew past him on the swings! He’d jump up and down trying to catch our shoes as we swung past. On that attempt he managed to snag my shoe, and at the speed I was going when he let go he went flying through mid-air. Thankfully he wasn’t hurt. But he never tried that again.”
Now laughing even harder Serenity managed, "He ended up in the middle of Auntie's vegetable garden covered with smashed tomatoes.
They were having fun until rounding a bend in the road. Before them stood a soldier wearing a tattered gray uniform and holding a Hawken rifle.
"What are the two of you doing out on a fine day such as this, and all alone?" he smirked.
Jeanetta Lynn pulled Misty to a stop about ten feet from him saying, "We're heading for our Aunt's, and she's expecting us momentarily. She’ll send her hired hand out looking for us if we don’t show up soon.”
Venturing closer he replied, "We could have some fun with the two of you. I’m sure your Auntie wouldn’t mind if you arrived late and a little soiled for the wear." He then added, "Right, boys," which brought the other men out of hiding.
"Jeanetta Lynn, there’s five of them behind us," said Serenity, as she sat turned on the seat.
Quickly glancing behind her, Jeanetta Lynn then focused her attention on the first soldier as he took hold of Misty’s bridle.
At the same time both fathers were nearing the same bend in the road when William thought he heard something. Pulling to a stop he asked, “Hear that?”
They sat quietly listening. “Yes I do,” replied Erwin, “It sounds like Jeanetta Lynn.”
“It is,” he said. “It wouldn’t help at all if we rode in without knowing what’s going on. Circle around into the thickets so we’ll have a better idea on what we should do next.”
“Sounds good to me,” answered Erwin, as they tied up their mounts.
The other soldiers were now nearing the buggy while saying what was on their minds.
“Pretty little things, aren’t they,” said one. “All dressed up just for us.”
“Sure are,” agreed another.
One reached for Jeanetta Lynn, but she pulled her arm away and slid closer to Serenity shouting, “Don’t you even think of touching us!”
“Ah, a feisty one,” exclaimed the soldier. “Give her to me and I’ll take some of that feistiness out of her in no time!”
“Come on girls, you know you want us,” jeered a man with long, matted black hair.
“We only want to contribute to your education,” laughed the one holding onto Misty.
Being the girl’s attention was drawn to the soldier holding Misty’s bridle they didn’t notice one climbing onto the back of the buggy. Slowly he was making his way toward them.
The fathers had come to a clearly where they were able to see what was going on. When hearing what was being said William stepped out growling, “I’ll give you a lesson you won’t soon forget!”
“Father!” screamed Jeanetta Lynn in panic.
“Ah, your daddy has come to save his little girl. Will isn’t that touching,” said the redheaded soldier.
“We can take him easily,” said the one holding onto Misty.
“But can you take us both,” said Erwin as he made his presence known.
“The way I see it is all of you can mosey on down the road and leave our daughters alone, or we can have it out right here,” said William as he cocked his rifle. “It’s up to you.”
“You can’t get us all,” grinned one.
“True, so I’ll aim for you first,” assured William.
About then thoughts of having their way with the two young girls had lost its appeal. Erwin cocked his rifle and they both aimed them toward the soldiers.
“Settle down,” said the soldier as he let go of Misty and stepped back. “We were just having a little fun. You know how it is when you’ve been away from women for as long as we’ve been. We’ll be heading on, so lower those rifles.”
“We’ll lower them once all of you are on your way,” ordered William.
The soldier in the back of the buggy climbed down. But instead of walking away he quickly turned toward them and fired his pistol, hitting Erwin in the arm. The force of the bullet caused him to real about and collapse. With determined accuracy William shot at the soldier, sending him backwards, colliding into another before hitting the ground. Cocking his rifle again William took aim at the one who seemed to be in charge. His decision was correct for once the man was looking down the barrel he quickly changed his tune.
“Come on men,” he ordered, “this isn’t worth us getting killed over. Pick up Joe and let’s get on our way.”
Erwin had rolled over into a sitting position and had his rifle resting on his knee, cocked and ready to fire.
“Too bad, we could have taught your daughters a little about life, making them better wives for the future,” chuckled one soldier, while resting his rifle over his shoulder and he helping Joe up from off the ground.
“Shut up Frank before he shoots you too,” groaned Joe. “Just get me out of here.”
Slowly they passed by the buggy, some of them winked at the girls, but mostly they were paying attention to the fathers holding rifles. Seeing a fork in the road they took to the right and continued on their way. William and Erwin stood watching until they couldn’t see them any longer before allowing the girls to leap down from the buggy and rush over.
“Father,” said Jeanetta Lynn. “The way you handled those men, weren’t you at all scared?”
“Jeanetta Lynn, we both were scared,” assured Erwin as he held Serenity.
“But you came out after us. How did you know we would be in danger?” asked Jeanetta Lynn.
“Trey told us about these men, and what they were up to. When finding they were heading down the same road as the both of you, we knew we had to get here fast,” Father replied, now embracing her tightly.
“Thank you for coming,” whispered Jeanetta Lynn.
“Nothing could keep us away,” assured Erwin. “I guess it isn’t as safe out there as that old soldier back home said.”
"I hate to admit this, but mother was fearful that this could happen. She knew about groups of soldiers in the area, and I chose not to listen," admitted Jeanetta Lynn. "But Father, being you weren’t concerned even I felt it would be okay."
“That’s just it, we both had mixed feelings regarding you two going out alone,” said Father. “But we had to allow you to go, and pray that nothing bad would take place. I feel it was God who brought Trey to our home so we could be here for you.”
“Now that you are here, are you both still willing to allow us to continue on?” asked Jeanetta Lynn of her father.
“That depends on you both. Do feel comfortable in proceeding,” he asked.
“Do you still want to go Serenity?” Jeanetta Lynn asked.
“Yes,” she replied. “Papa, can I?”
Neither of them wanted to consider exposing their daughters to more danger. After giving them their words they couldn’t see a comfortable way of backing out and still have peace. That’s when William came up with a suggestion. “How about this,” he said hesitantly, “Erwin, you’re hurt and must see a doctor. What if I help you up on a horse, and you can head for town while I escort our daughters to Auntie’s?”
The girls were about to protest until remembering their fears of only moments ago. “Father, does that mean you’ll take us all the way up to Auntie’s home where everyone can see?” asked Jeanetta Lynn.
“Just too where we can see it, and no further. You won’t even know I’m here,” he replied.
The girls walked a little ways off to discuss what it is they would like to do. “I want to continue on,” said Serenity, “and I had hopes your father would step in and offer to stay with us, for protection. There’s armed guards when seeing the stage coming in with money. So if a grown man needs added protection then maybe we do too.”
“What a relief to hear this,” smiled Jeanetta Lynn. “I thought I would have to convince you to feel the same way as I do. And if he only comes as far as when we can see Auntie’s home, then no one will know that we didn’t drive all the way by ourselves. Now, how do we get him to meet us in two days?”
“We’ll have to work on that one,” giggled Serenity.
Returning to the buggy they climbed in. Jeanetta Lynn smiled at her father saying, “As long as you won’t come any further than when we see Auntie’s home, you may come along.”
William turned to Erwin to see if his reaction were the same as his, and found they both were finding it hard not to laugh out loud. “Alright,” said father with a straight face, “I’ll accept the honor of accompanying you both.” After a short pause he added, “But only to when we can see her home.”
“Thank you,” smiled Jeanetta Lynn as she winked at him.
“Erwin, I’ll get the horses,” said William, sprinting off and soon returning with both in lead. “Tell Trey I’ll bring back his horse in the morning, and tell Jake to watch the store in my absence. Please let Virginia know what I’m doing,” he said while helping Erwin up.
“Both Lydia and Virginia will be pleased that you’re going with them. That will relieve their fears, and mine, too,” said Erwin once seated.
“Papa, I'm sorry you got hurt,” said Serenity while taking his hand. "Thank you for coming out for us."
“We’re like that when it comes to protecting our little girls,” he smiled.
Serenity always hated being referred to as ‘little girl’, but right now it gave her a comforting feeling to know how much he cared. “Be safe. And please tell mother I love her,” she said quietly. “Papa, I love you so much. I’ll miss you.”
“I’ll miss you, too,” he replied. Their fingers slipped apart as the horse moved on, bringing sadness into his heart. If he hadn’t a bullet in his arm he too would be there to protect his daughter. But being this wasn’t the case he had to leave it up to William, and in God’s hands.
“Now,” said Father, “Let’s get on our way.”
Fear has a way of losing its power after a while, and before long the girls were back reminiscing of their childhood at Auntie's. As Father’s horse jogged alongside the buggy he heard things he never suspected them of doing. But he remained true to his word by not lecturing them on it.
Jeanetta Lynn asked, "Serenity, do you think Auntie will remember when we wanted to look as beautiful as her?"
"She may not but I sure do! We poured two whole bottles of iodine over our heads to turn our hair red," she laughed until her sides ached.
"Our mothers had fits, and so did Auntie when seeing we had used up all her iodine. What was worse is that we ruined several of her towels, and managed to get it on her best rug," laughed Jeanetta Lynn so hard that it was difficult to sit upright, and still hold onto the reins.
"They washed our hair almost every hour on the hour," said Serenity, trying to compose herself. "But it stayed that color until it grew long enough for them to cut off."
"Be still," cautioned Father in a low voice. "I see someone in the road ahead."
"Surely not another group of soldiers?" asked Jeanetta Lynn, as they tried to see that far into the distance.
"I don't know but it could be. Only this time I'm ready for them," he said, “Keep Misty's gate back to a flat walk to give me more time to figure out what’s going on.”
“I will,” replied Jeanetta Lynn.
"It's a single soldier. What will you do now?" asked Serenity, grabbing the whip in case it was needed.
As they approached the soldier got up from the log he was sitting on. Removing his cap he said, "We're awfully hungry, sir, do you have anything we could eat? I don't have much money, but what I do have I'll freely give you."
"You said ‘we’, but I don't see another," stated Father.
Remembering how before the first solder wasn’t alone at the start caused the girls to grow anxious.
"If you're asking about more men, no, I'm alone. But I do have my young son with me," he said, motioning for the boy to come out of the bushes and stand by his side. "When the battle was over I returned home to find that my wife had been killed, and our home burned down. When seeing the soldiers Sam hid himself in the bushes which saved his life. Once they rode off he walked the five miles to the nearest neighbor who kindly took him in until I returned."
"Where are you heading?" asked Jeanetta Lynn.
"We're heading west in hopes of getting a fresh start. Sam's still young, but soon he'll be able to help me with whatever place we end up on,” he replied.
Reaching behind her, Jeanetta Lynn held out their basket of food saying, "Our mothers packed this for our trip, but you two need it far more than we do."
"I'm much ablidging to ya," he said, walking up to take it.
Sam quickly looked under the towel, and removed the bread, eating it as if he were starving.
"When was the last time you both had any food?" asked Father.
"I've been able to get work here and there, sir, so to buy food. But it's been a while," he replied. "I have money to pay, but most folks ran us off as if we're thieves or murderers."
"It's because a few bands of Rebels have been pillaging these parts," said Serenity.
"We ran into a group of them back a ways. They're not the type you would want to run into," warned Jeanetta Lynn. "They weren’t honorable men, and if it hadn’t been for our fathers help no telling what may have happened to us."
"Pillaging and assaulting the women folk, huh? If I had to deal with such men I wouldn't be overly hospitable to strangers either," he said, as he removed the few coins from a pouch. "Here, this is for the food and basket."
"You keep it; you need this more than we do. We'll be at our destination before long, and we'll be just fine," said Jeanetta Lynn, gently pushing his hand away.
"Thank all of you for your generosity, and kindness," he said, returning the money back into the pouch.
"Also for letting me know about the Rebels. I could easily take some of them on, but not with my son here. What's over that ways?" he asked, pointing off the road.
"In about another mile or so you'll come to a road. Go left and it will lead you to town," said Father.
"Then that's where we'll be heading. There might be some work I can do for a day or two before heading on. Thank you all for your kindness. And may God bless, and keep you safe on your journey,” he said pleasantly. Taking Sam by his hand and the basket hooked on his arm; they left the road heading toward a dense forest. After a while there were no traces of them ever being there.
"Even though he was nice, I don't want to run into anyone else," said Jeanetta Lynn, urging Misty on.
"Father, you felt this was going to be an adventure, and you were right."
“Though it’s not the adventure I had hoped you both would experience,” he said calmly.
"Adventures such as this I’m willing to pass on," Serenity said somberly.
"I see it this way, just how many girls our age have such a wonderful gift as what Auntie gave us in their possession?” Jeanetta Lynn smiled at Serenity, and then continued, “Even if we don't know what makes
it so sensational, or what it can do. Just knowing that it's ours is exceptional. Don’t you agree?"
"Yes, that's for sure," smiled Serenity.
“I guess you both like the gift,” said Father, “At least enough to travel all this way to thank her for it.”
“Father, you don’t realize just how much we wish to thank her,” Jeanetta Lynn replied.
“Well, I’m pleased to find that we’ve raised you two right,” said Father.
Before too long they reached the turn heading toward Auntie's, and by the time they were close enough to see her home the girls were deep in thought.
“This is where I take my leave,” said Father. “You’re safe and can go the rest of the way on your own.”
“Father, thank you for coming with us,” said Jeanetta Lynn. “If we had met up with another group of soldiers, the bad sort and not like the good one we did meet up with, I don’t know what we would have done without you.”
“That’s what fathers are for,” he replied modestly. “In two days time I’ll be waiting here for you.”
Jeanetta Lynn turned her head so quickly toward him that one curl slapped her in the eye. “Ouch,” she cried out.
“There’s no debating on this one, I’ll be here,” he said, feeling that she was about to question why he would do this.
“Father, it was my hair,” she tried to explain, “it hit my eye and that’s why I said ‘ouch’, not about you being here for us. I’m glad that you’ll be here. We had wanted this but didn’t know how to go about asking.”
“What you do is ask,” said Father. “Parents want only what’s best for their children, even when they think they’re too grown up and no longer need us.”
“I’ll keep this in mind,” smiled Jeanetta Lynn. “We’ll see you here two days from today.”
“That’s a date,” he said. Leaning down from the saddle he gave her a kiss on the cheek before heading back home. “Oh yes,” he said circling his horse about, “say hello to Auntie for me.”
“I’ll do that,” she called back as he rode off into the distance.
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