The Montana Rancher's Bride (New Montana Brides)

by Susan Leigh Carlton

  It does sound like a lonely existence. And I thought I worked hard. In the saddle all day. His description sounds like he’s thin. Probably doesn’t eat anything but beef and beans. I can take care of that in short order.

  “He is a man of faith too. I like that. He writes a nice letter too. I like the way this sounds.”

  Writing To Case…

  Carrie had received five responses to her ad, from the Montana Territory, Wyoming, and two from Texas. Two were from farmers and the other three from ranchers. Of the five letters, two were from widowers, attesting to the hard life of a wife and mother on the frontier. They were left without mothers for their children.

  Having decided she liked Number 920, Carrie sat down to answer his letter.

  “Dear Number 920.

  I was most pleased to receive your letter of the 20th. I was hoping to hear from you again.

  It brought tears to my eyes when I read about the tragedy to your parents. How terrible that must have been for you to lose them so suddenly and both at once. It is said, ‘No one is promised tomorrow,’ and I guess that is true. I’m not sure I could handle a loss, such as the one you suffered..

  Are you still troubled with Indian Raids? I have no experiences to compare with living in danger. Is the Army involved in protecting the settlers?

  I was pleased to find you are a man of faith. My family has always been thus. In our church, I see a similar situation to what you describe, only the reverse. There are very few unmarried men in our small town. I was betrothed at the age of eighteen; however, he was killed in the Battle of Gettysburg.

  I have not spoken to my parents of my writing you. They would not be pleased to hear of me advertising in hope of finding a husband. I will tell them in due time, but I’m not ready for the ordeal at this point. In the meantime, my mother is worried I will be a spinster and is inviting widowers as prospective husbands. I want no part of this as most of that rank approaches my father in age. In the meantime, I continue my teaching.

  This is the nicest time of the year for me, and my students all have their minds and hearts elsewhere. I must confess, mine is also.

  Please write soon. You will add some sunshine to this girl’s life.

  I remain, sincerely,

  Number 976

  After mailing her letter, Carrie spoke to her mother regarding the guest her mother had invited to dinner. “Mama, I do not intend to be here for the dinner to which you have invited Mr. Chalmers. If I were to do so, it would be under false pretenses, since I do not intend to establish a relationship with him.

  “You know I love you and Papa, and I do not want to cause you any embarrassment, so I am telling you ahead of time.”

  “Carrie Louise Robbins, Mr. Chalmers is coming to dinner and he expects you to be here, and so do I,” her mother said.

  “I have spoken with Sue Ann Hicks, one of the other unmarried teachers. She has a small living space above the mercantile, and she has offered to share the space with me. It is convenient to the academy. I would pay a share of the rent and other expenses. It might be best if I accept her offer and prevent this unpleasantness between us.”

  “You would do that? Move away from home, to live with someone we don’t even know?”

  If you only knew what else I am considering, you would have apoplexy, Carrie thought. “Yes, Mama, I would. I don’t think you realize how strongly I feel about this.”

  “Well, I never…” her mother said. “This is going to upset your Papa more than it has me. I only want you to be secure and to have someone to provide for you. You can’t teach forever.”

  “I could if I had to. I am a strong person. I got that from you.”

  “I want you to have an easier life than I had, that’s all.”

  chapter Seven

  Indian Raid

  The cowboys were driving a portion of the herd to a fresh grazing area, when they hit. The Sioux came from both sides of the trail, making as much noise as possible trying to create a stampede.

  There were seven Lazy J cowboys including Case, driving the herd, three on a side and one in trail. Dismounting, they took shelter in the rocks beside the trail. They would the cattle up later; first, the raiders had to be repulsed.

  Rifle fire is much more effective at a greater range, if the shooter is dismounted rather than when fired from horseback. The Indians were outgunned, and when the cattle failed to stampede, they were at a significant disadvantage.

  The Henry repeater is a deadly weapon in the hands of an accurate marksman. The cowboys from the Lazy J were accurate, and quickly put down a withering fire. Concentrating their fire on the apparent leaders of the raiding party, they soon dropped them. Of the twelve braves in the party, soon, only five were left. Leaderless, the rest swerved to hightail it out of the death trap. Two more were shot as they fled. The herd was more important than pursuing, so Case surveyed his crew. No one had been hurt, and they had lost few cattle. They set about recovering the herd and continuing to move them to the original destination.

  Knowing the Indians would recover their dead, they were left where they had fallen. After getting the herd settled in, Case left his men to guard them, and returned to the ranch. He sent the chuck wagon to the camp, and sat down to a meal of cold beans and cornbread. Tomorrow, he planned to go in to Helena for supplies, check his mail, and notify the sheriff of the raid.

  In Helena, the next day...

  “Sheriff,” Case said, “The Sioux tried to steal our herd yesterday. They might have made it if I hadn’t had my entire crew working it. There were twelve in the party, and we got all but two.”

  “Did you lose anyone?” asked the sheriff.

  “No, we were in the narrow part of a canyon and got to the rocks. The pinch point kept the cattle from stampeding; otherwise, it might have been a different story. We were lucky yesterday. Next time may be different.”

  He gave the storekeeper the list of supplies he needed and picked up the one letter waiting for him. “Silas,” he told the storekeeper, “I’m going over to the church to see Jack. I’ll be back after a bit.”

  He sat on the bench, outside the store, and opened his letter. I guess we all have problems, he thought. She lost her man in the war, and understands my feelings. I’m sure her mother has her best interests at heart, but it would be frustrating to have someone trying to marry you off. To anyone, just as long as you marry.

  Is that what Letty is trying to do with me?

  No, I don’t think so. She sees my loneliness and made suggestions to help, and then left it up to me. Number 976 is trying to solve her problem on her own. That takes courage. I wonder if she is writing to others.

  Probably. I hope not. She sounds like a strong lady. The kind of woman I need. Wonder what Letty and Jack would think?

  I’m going to ask them, he decided.

  As usual, both Jack and Letty were in the church. Jack worked on his sermon for the coming Sunday while his wife dusted the benches and pulpit. “How are you this fine, bright day?” he asked Letty.

  She looked up. A strand of hair had escaped the scarf she was wearing to keep the dust from her hair. Idly, she brushed it aside. “Case, you startled me. You shouldn’t sneak up on a girl like that. What brings you to town today?”

  “Two things, actually,” he said. “The Sioux tried to steal our herd yesterday, and I needed to report it, and I wanted to see if there was a letter for me.”

  “Was there? A letter, I mean.”

  He grinned. “Yes, there was. A nice one too. I would like for you to read it and tell me what you think.”

  “Sure, I’ll be glad to. That way I won’t have to wonder what’s going on.”

  He handed her the letter, and asked, “Is Jack in back?”

  “Yes, he’s trying to decide on a subject for Sunday. Go on back.” She sat on one of the benches to read the letter while Case went off to talk to her husband.

  “Hey, Jack. Having trouble coming up with a sermon for Sunday?” he asked.


  “Case, how are you?” He stood, and they shook hands. “I’m trying to come up with something that doesn’t put everyone to sleep. What’s up with you?”

  “I had to see the sheriff and pick up some cartridges. We had a little dust-up with the Sioux and I need to replenish our supply. I wanted to check on the mail too.”

  “Anyone hurt?” asked Jack.

  “Not on our side,” answered Case.

  “How’s your thing with the lady coming along?”

  “I had a nice letter today, the second one, actually. I asked Letty to tell me what she thinks of it.”

  “Well, that made her day,” Jack said drily.

  “Is that a nice thing to say about your soul mate?” Letty asked from the doorway. “You know part of my role as the wife of the minister is to see to the welfare of our members. This man came to me looking to take advantage of my vast knowledge in the selection of a suitable wife.”

  “Is that what you call your nosiness now?” Jack asked.

  “Pay him no attention, Case. He’s just jealous because you asked me and not him. Now, about your letter. I think this woman is a winner. She sounds intelligent, and knows what she wants and what she doesn’t want, and is willing to go after it. Many girls would simply cave in to satisfy their parents, but she doesn’t do that.

  “She has experienced sorrow, and empathizes with you about your parents. Most of all, I like that she is a believer and is pleased you are also. She doesn’t appear to be only concerned with her problems, but is interested in yours too. I say go for it.

  “Now, do you want to let Jack see it before his curiosity kills him?” she asked.

  Cased laughed. He genuinely liked this couple. They had a great marriage, and shared an interest in the welfare of their friends. “Might as well, I guess,” he said “I’d hate to be the cause of his early demise.”

  Letty handed him the letter. As he read it, she asked, “Is this the first letter?”

  “It’s the second one. The first one was her answer to my ad. This is an answer to the one I wrote.”

  “It pains me to say this,” Jack said, “but I agree with my wife. It is a nice letter from a strong, educated woman.

  “Have you received any other answers to your ad?” Jack asked.

  “I had two others, but I liked this one best of the three,” Case answered.

  “I can see why. Do you have any idea where she’s from?”

  “Not a clue,” Case answered. “I am going authorize the paper to give her my name and address, when I answer this one.”

  “Good for you,” Letty said. “I think you’re ready to move on in this.”

  chapter Eight

  This Is Where I Live

  Editor

  The Matrimonial Bulletin. My ad number is 920. This is my authorization to release my name and address to Number 976.

  Thank You,

  Case Jamison

  Case included the note to the editor of the Matrimonial Bulletin, along with one to Number 976.

  Dear Number 976,

  As you will note, I have authorized the editor to release my name and address to you. I do this in order for you to determine if you have an interest in further correspondence with me.

  I live on a large ranch about five miles from Helena in the Montana Territory. Helena is a mining town of 2500 to 3000 people. In addition to mining, Helena is a commerce center for the area. We are on a main stagecoach line. The railroad has not made its way to Montana Territory yet, but we are hopeful.

  I am compelled to be honest with you regarding problems with the Sioux Indian tribe. As late as this past week, we were raided by a party of Sioux who were after our cattle. We managed to drive them off, and none of the cowboys were hurt.

  I have seven cowhands involved in the day-to-day operation of the ranch. The ranch has belonged to my family since my family moved here from Texas.

  As with any mining town on the frontier, there is a certain lawless element in the population. Since a sheriff was hired, this has diminished, but is still a small part of it.

  I have previously mentioned our church. My family has been regular attendees since it was established. The preacher and his wife are salt of the earth people, and I count them as my closest friends. Helena is progressive with its school system. We also have a mercantile and general store.

  There may be more beautiful places on earth, but I can’t believe there is one more beautiful than Montana. Our winters can be harsh, but cattle survive without my having to purchase additional forage for them.

  I can’t think of anything else to tell you. I have tried to be honest and forthright in my description, and I anxiously await your decision regarding further correspondence.

  Sincerely,

  Case Jamison

  He put the letter in the mail, and settled into his normal routine while he waited for the response. In revealing his address Number 076 could now write directly to him, shortening the delivery time. If she chose to provide her address, the total time required would be halved.

  * * *

  Carrie’s mother was upset at her non-appearance dinner on the night Mr. Chalmers was invited.

  “I was very disappointed when you did not appear for dinner last night. Mr. Chalmers was also, as he had looked forward to talking to you. He is willing to give you another chance, however. I think it is most gracious of him to do so after you showed such disrespect for him.”

  “Mother, I intended no disrespect and I am not interested in his giving me another chance, as you put it. I am twenty-three years old, and I’m an adult.

  “I hoped it would not come to this, but I have spoken again with Sue Ann, and I will be moving my belongings to her place. I think it is time I began living on my own, without the dependence on you and Papa.”

  “Your Papa is not going to like this one bit, Carrie,” her mother said.

  “I’m hoping he realizes I am a grown woman and am capable of making my own way. I will tell him of my decision when he comes home.”

  That night…

  “Papa, I need to talk to you about something that is important to me. Can we do it now?”

  “Of course, Punkin, what is troubling you so much? Maybe I can fix it,” her father said.

  “Mama is convinced that I need to marry that Mr. Chalmers. I don’t intend to, and don’t wish to argue with her about it anymore. I am going to share a living space with Sue Ann Hicks. I love you and Mama, but I am unable to convince her she doesn’t need her to find a suitor for me. I don’t have any idea what she thinks is going to happen to me, but I am not interested in that Mr. Chalmers, in any manner. Mama is convinced I am doomed to be a spinster if I don’t. That may be, Papa, but it will be my choice.”

  “Now wait a minute,” her father said. “Moving away from your home is a mighty big step over a little disagreement with your Ma.”

  “It’s not a little disagreement. She says as long as I live in this house, I must do as she says. I have done everything she’s asked of me. I have always helped with the others; I help out in the garden, and with the cooking. I can’t do more, and Sue Ann’s place is my only alternative.”

  “Aww, honey, I don’t want you to move. Maybe I can talk to her. Will you give me the chance to do that? Please?”

  “For you, Papa, I will wait,” she said.

  The next day…

  Another letter! This was quicker than the last time. This is not from Kansas City. I wonder why? She waited until she was in her room to open her letter. He told them to give me his name and address. I’m glad. Case Jamison. Case is a different name. I’ve never seen it before. Jamison has a nice Irish sound to it. He’s from the Montana Territory. Helena. That is clear across the country. He said part of the trip would be by stagecoach, since they don’t have a railroad yet.

  The Sioux raided them again! I’m glad he wasn’t hurt. Well, he didn’t try to sugar coat things. No railroad, Indians, outlaws. It’s here, warts and all. I like the way he describes t
he preacher and his wife.

  His ranch sounds sizable. Seven cowboys. I wonder how many cattle would require seven people to manage them?

  As she sat on the bed, her mind wandered, pondering what she had just read. I need to get another letter in the mail. I don’t want him to be wondering if I’m going to write back. I wonder if he has been writing to anyone else.”

  “Who are you talking to?” her mother asked.

  “I didn’t say anything,” Mama.

  “I heard you talking to someone,” her mother said.

  Carrie opened the door. “I was talking to myself, Mama. There’s no one here.”

  “Your Papa is really upset with you from the other night,” her mother said.

  “I don’t think he’s upset with me. The reason he is upset is I told him I am going to share a space with Sue Ann. He wanted to talk to you first.”

  “We talked. He doesn’t understand my trying to help you with Mr. Chalmers. I explained it to him, but his only concern was that you might move.”

  “There is no might, Mama. You just don’t see how strongly I feel about this. I will be moving tomorrow, when I get home from school.”

  “You don’t mean that, Carrie. This is your home.”

  “It was, but not anymore. Mama, let’s not argue this last day. It won’t accomplish anything. Please?”

  Her mother turned and left the room without saying anything more.

  When her father came home that evening, she said, “Papa, I will be moving tomorrow. I know you tried, but it hasn’t changed anything. I love you, Papa.” She threw her arms around his neck, and said, “The war brought us to this, Papa. It would have never happened if Joshua hadn’t been killed.”

  Her father patted her on the back and tried to console her. His voice choked with emotion as he said, “I know Punkin. I know. I’m so sorry you’ve had to go through this. Your Mama is trying to do what she thinks is best for you.” He left the room, shaking his head, puzzled over the things that were causing his daughter to leave.

  Carrie sat at the small desk in her room, blank paper in front of her. She dipped the quill in the ink well and began to write.