Katie: Clover Springs Mail Order Brides Book 1

by Rachel Wesson

  “You need to try harder than that, my girl. Has Mrs. Gantley found you a husband?”

  Katie nodded again, but stared at the floor, her fingers opening and closing as the reality of what she had decided to do hit home. She was going to marry Mr. Cassidy and move out west. Just as soon as it could be arranged.

  “Sit down, girl, and tell me.” Nellie patted the chair nearest to her.

  “Mrs. Gantley showed me a letter from a gentleman. He’s got a farm—I mean a ranch—in Colorado near a town called Clear Creek. He needs a wife. He will pay all my expenses. Oh, Nellie, tell me I am doing the right thing.”

  Nellie looked at her sadly, her eyes filling with tears.

  Don’t cry, please don’t cry. Katie took a deep breath to try to get her own emotions under control.

  “It’s my only chance, Nellie. You know there is nowhere for me to go in Boston. Not with Ellen to look after. I couldn’t bear for her to live in the orphanage or be adopted by strangers.”

  “What about you, darling girl? Are you ready to marry this Mr. Cassidy? A stranger?”

  “Yes. I am. I have to tell Mrs. Gantley tomorrow. She showed me his letter and she has checked his references. He seems quite nice.” Katie crossed her fingers at the lie. Nice was hardly the term that could be attached to the single-paged note he had sent, but Nellie didn’t need to know that.

  She decided to change the subject. “Nellie, you need to think about yourself for once. You’re not getting any younger. Go live with your sister. I can’t leave knowing Aunt Margaret may blame you.”

  “I’ll think it over,” Nellie said, stirring her coffee. She looked over at Katie. “I pray every night you get the life you deserve, my darling girl. Mr. Cassidy may be your Prince Charming.”

  “I certainly hope so, Nellie. It can’t be worse than staying here.” They both heard steps coming toward the kitchen. “That will be Ellen back with more dishes. I haven’t told her yet.”

  The next morning, stomach churning, Katie dressed carefully. Closing the door of her uncle’s house behind her, she couldn’t resist smiling. It wouldn’t be long now before she could leave for good. Her smile faltered. She might be over eighteen, but her uncle was still Ellen’s guardian. He could stop them leaving. Let him try. She would sneak Ellen out of the house. No way was she leaving her sister behind.

  Pushing the negative thoughts to the back of her mind, she walked quickly, arriving at Mrs. Gantley’s house slightly breathless. The butler answered and showed her into the parlor. Mrs. Gantley looked up and smiled warmly.

  “Katie, how nice to see you again. I take it from your happy face that you haven’t changed your mind about Mr. Cassidy.”

  “No, ma’am. I want to be a mail order bride, the sooner the better.”

  Mrs. Gantley’s smile reached her eyes. “I see you haven’t gained any patience. Take a seat, my dear, and we will get the paperwork sorted. But first, let me ring for some coffee. I think we should skip the cookies. They haven’t improved since last time.”

  Katie sat and waited for Mrs. Gantley to explain what would happen next.

  “We will both write to Mr. Cassidy. You should tell him a little about yourself, your age and what you are looking for. I will write a letter of introduction and enclose your references. I can post the letters tomorrow and we should have an answer back within about a month.”

  At Katie’s nod, Mrs. Gantley took some writing materials from her desk. Together, they worked in silence. Katie tried her best to describe herself objectively. She found herself using words like strong, reliable and dependable. I sound like a horse. When he gets this letter, Mr. Cassidy will run a mile in the opposite direction. She handed the letter to Mrs. Gantley, who laughed loudly when she read Katie’s first attempt.

  “Sorry to laugh at you, dear, but perhaps you could add that you are rather striking, with glorious black hair and beautiful violet eyes. You have very unusual coloring, especially for an Irish girl. People always expect red hair and freckles.”

  Katie, although pleased, looked down at the floor. “I couldn’t say things like that, Mrs. Gantley. It wouldn’t be proper.”

  “Well now, I wish I could be there when the train arrives and Mr. Cassidy first lays eyes on you. He will be struck dumb.”

  Katie allowed herself to bask in the warmth of the praise before telling herself off. All that matters is he marries me and I can look after Ellen and myself. I cannot afford to indulge in romantic notions.

  “Do you have any questions? You haven’t asked about his religious background. Being Irish, I assume you are Catholic. Do you not wish to marry into the same faith?”

  Katie shook her head. Being Catholic was no guarantee of a man’s good nature. Uncle Joseph was proof of that. “I would prefer a good Christian man to one who follows a faith just for appearance’s sake. He says in his letter he is an upstanding citizen and he enclosed a reference from his minister. That’s enough for now.”

  “Well, if you are sure, I will post these letters in the morning.” Mrs. Gantley looked at Katie, seeking confirmation.

  “Yes, ma’am. Thank you for everything. I must go now, but I will call to see you in a month. You know where to reach me if you have an answer before then.”

  Mrs. Gantley chuckled and rose to her feet. Taking Katie’s arm, she escorted her to the front door. “You are a charming young woman. Mr. Cassidy will be a lucky man.”

  “Thank you, Mrs. Gantley.” I hope he still feels lucky when he realizes he is taking on his bride’s young sister. Katie tied the ribbons of her bonnet under her chin. Before she left, she turned to the other woman. “Mrs. Gantley, you wouldn’t perhaps be in the market for a new cook? I know a lady who makes wonderful cookies.”

  “Not at the moment, dear. I promised Ida’s father I would look out for her. I live in hope she will improve. I pray nightly for a miracle.” Mrs. Gantley smiled to take the sting out of the words.

  She really is a kind lady. Nellie would be lucky to have her as a mistress. She’s not a bit like Aunt Margaret. Katie realized Mrs. Gantley was speaking to her.

  “Would your friend be interested in becoming a mail order bride? Almost every man who writes to me wants a wife who can cook.”

  Katie burst out laughing at the thought of Nellie heading west to marry anyone. She shook her head. “Nellie, the cook where I currently live, thinks five miles outside Boston is the Wild West.” Katie shook the other woman’s hand. “See you in a month, Mrs. Gantley, and thank you.”

  Katie left the house still smiling at the thought of Nellie heading west. She almost skipped down the street but restrained herself. She was going to be married and mature ladies didn’t behave like silly young girls.

  Chapter 10

  Clear Creek

  Montis stomped across the street, his spurs sending the dust flying, away from the post office and toward the saloon. He needed a drink. Now. Barging in, he went up to the bar. He tossed back the whiskey before demanding another from the barkeep.

  He hadn’t expected to find a letter waiting for him when he got to town. It had been so long since Virgil had sent his note about a bride, Montis had almost forgotten he had agreed to get hitched. Now it turned out his darn brother had been intercepting his letters and corresponding with Boston Brides on his behalf. He thumped the bar, despite the look the barkeep sent him. If he hadn’t come into town today, he wouldn’t even know the gal was on her way.

  He looked at the letter again. Seems Virgil had sent them the money for the ticket plus extras. The note was so thankful for his generosity. He snorted. Virgil must have been more desperate than he realized if he had sent more money than was required.

  He was so caught up, he didn’t notice the saloon girl sidle up to him.

  “You look thirsty,” she said, her eyes gliding over him.

  “Leave me be.”

  “I was just trying to be friendly.” She stalked off.

  Montis didn’t want anyone being friendly, least of all a woman. H
e had enough troubles in that department. The letter in his pocket was the reason he was drinking whiskey like someone caught in the desert with a dry canteen.

  Women. He didn’t need that kind of trouble. Well, you got it now, you best get on with it.

  He took the letter out of his pocket again. At least she sounded pretty. Maybe even beautiful. A girl who looked good couldn’t be like his ma. Could she? He’d find out soon enough. According to the letter, she would arrive in about two weeks. He was glad Virgil was on one of his trips. He didn’t need his brother around, messing up his plans. If he was here, he would insist he marry the girl as soon as she got off the train. But this way, he could wait a couple of days and see what she was really like. If she was anything like his ma, she could go right back to Boston. If Virgil didn’t like that, then he could marry her.

  Feeling clever, he looked around for the saloon girl. Hell, he wasn’t married yet. Some company might be nice. He smiled at the saloon girl, who looked warily at him, before realizing he was grinning at her. Returning his smile, but without losing the wary look in her eyes, she sashayed back over to him.

  “Feeling better?”

  “Much. I’d like to take you up on that offer of a drink. Have one yourself, too.” He nodded at the chair beside him as she called the barkeep over. He didn’t bat an eye when she asked for a bottle and two glasses. He had money in his pocket, a pretty girl on his arm and his marriage woes sorted. What more could he ask for? He was a lucky man, indeed.

  Chapter 11

  Boston

  Mrs. Gantley had sent Katie a note asking her to call. Once more, Nellie came to her rescue, sending Katie out on an errand. Katie ran almost the whole way to Mrs. Gantley’s house. The butler looked as if he was trying not to smile at her flushed cheeks and breathlessness. He showed her into the same room as before where Mrs. Gantley was seated reading a book.

  “Good news, Katie. Mr. Cassidy sent me a letter enclosing your train ticket and also some money for your needs. He has been more than generous. I hope you will write to me and let me know how you get on.”

  Katie nodded, not trusting herself to speak. She was so excited, she was sure the words would come out in a high squeak.

  “You will travel a week from today. Does that sound good to you?”

  “Yes, Mrs. Gantley. Thank you for everything.”

  “It’s a pleasure, dear. I hope you and Mr. Cassidy have years of happiness ahead of you.”

  Katie hoped so, too. God had answered all her prayers. Nellie. She was leaving her alone.

  “Katie, you probably noticed I didn’t offer you cookies today. I am pleased to say Ida has decided to leave us and become a mail order bride. Her betrothed is a chef, so her lack of cooking skills isn’t an issue, thank goodness.”

  Katie smiled at the joke. She was happy to hear more proof Mrs. Gantley made an effort to make almost perfect matches.

  “You mentioned last time you knew of a good cook. I was wondering if she would be still available. My beloved husband is getting rather cranky for want of a decent home-cooked meal.”

  Katie was nodding even before Mrs. Gantley had finished her sentence. “Yes, Ma’am. Nellie, my friend, is a great cook and she wants to stay in Boston. She is looking for a position in a smaller establishment.” Katie didn’t want to say Nellie worked for her aunt. “Her current employers entertain a lot.”

  “Wonderful. Would she come and see me? Do tell her to hurry, will you, please, Katie? And remember to write to me and let me know how you are. I am looking forward to counting your match as another success.”

  “Yes, Mrs. Gantley, and thank you for everything.”

  Katie almost flew home. She couldn’t believe her good luck. Not only did she have sufficient money to cover Ellen’s train fare, but she had a bit left over to buy some essentials for their long trip. Nellie had a new position with a mistress who would treat her fairly. Life was wonderful. Katie thought she would burst with happiness.

  She considered running to the orphanage to tell Mary Ryan about her good fortune, but it was too late. She would see her on Sunday. Maybe Mary would decide to become a mail order bride, too.

  It was only when she reached her aunt’s house that Katie realized she had forgotten something. How will I get Ellen out of the house without Uncle Joseph stopping us? Nellie will help.

  Katie and Ellen sat waiting in the priest’s sitting room.

  Mary and Catherine were late. Katie played with her fingers. They had to come tonight.

  “We can’t go without saying goodbye to the girls,” Ellen said.

  “Shhh, Ellen. Mrs. Raines might hear you.”

  “Why does it have to be a secret?” Ellen pouted.

  “You know why. Uncle Joseph could stop you coming with me. I don’t want to take that risk.”

  The door opened just then. Mary and Catherine came into the room looking sadder than ever.

  “What’s up with you two?” Ellen asked.

  “A couple has enquired about adopting Catherine. Mother Superior said it would be a great opportunity. The people have money and will be able to send her to a nice school. She will live in a big house, have plenty to eat and lots of nice clothes.” Mary stopped talking, her face pale as she took a seat. Catherine threw herself at her sister.

  “I’m not going. I won’t leave you, Mary. You can’t make me go.”

  Mary put her arms around her younger sister, trying to stop her crying.

  “I can’t stop them, Cathy, you know that.”

  “We can ask Father Molloy if he can do something. Maybe the people don’t know you are sisters. They might take the two of you?” Katie said, despite knowing most couples didn’t adopt a seventeen-year-old.

  “That’s a great idea. We will speak to Father Molloy later, Cathy. Now why don’t you and Ellen go to the kitchen and ask Mrs. Raines if she would like some help. I need to speak to Katie.”

  Katie and Mary sat on the sofa, whispering.

  “Mother Superior says she already told them Catherine had an older sister, but they are not interested. It’s a fantastic opportunity for her. I love her too much to stand in her way.”

  “Oh, Mary, I wish I knew what to say to you. I couldn’t bear if anyone were to try to take Ellen away from me. That’s why I have to go away.”

  Mary sat upright. “Where? Can we go, too?”

  Katie shook her head. “Not this time, but you may be able to follow us. I am getting married.”

  “Married?” Mary’s eyes grew wide with shock. “I didn’t even know you had been courting.”

  “I haven’t. I am going to be a mail order bride.” At the confused look on her friend’s face, Katie continued. “I met a lady called Mrs. Gantley. She arranges weddings between girls from the East and men of the West. There is a lack of women out west, so men need to send away for brides. I have written to Mr. Cassidy and we have agreed to wed. We leave for the Colorado Territory on Wednesday. I will write to you as soon as I can. Maybe Mr. Cassidy will have a friend who needs a wife and you can come out, too?”

  Mary stayed silent.

  “Don’t be judging me, Mary Ryan. This is the only way I can be sure that myself and Ellen stay together. I have to get away from Boston.”

  “Does Mr. Cassidy not mind Ellen coming?” Katie avoided Mary’s gaze. “Oh, Katie, you didn’t tell him did you?” Katie shook her head. “What if he sends Ellen back?”

  “He won’t,” Katie said firmly, crossing her fingers.

  “Married? I don’t believe it. It hardly seems like yesterday when we were getting on the boat in Galway.”

  “Don’t, Mary. Leave the past behind us. It’s too painful to think about that now. We can only look to the future. Please give me your blessing.”

  Mary threw her arms around Katie, holding her close as she cried her eyes out. “You are my dearest friend, Katie O’Callaghan and I will pray every night that you find happiness in Colorado. Don’t forget to write to us. You are so brave. I wish I had hal
f your strength.”

  “You do, Mary. Pray to your Mam to help you to stay together. Speak to Mrs. Gantley, too. She told me she had lots of men looking for wives.”

  “I couldn’t go somewhere I knew nobody. I will wait for you to write to me. You can find me a husband near to where you live and then we can all be together again. Maybe even happy.”

  “Who’s not happy?” Father Molloy said as he walked into the room accompanied by the two younger girls. “Are Mrs. Raines’s cakes not up to their usual standard?”

  “They are lovely, Father. Ellen and I have to leave now. Uncle Joseph expects us back early tonight. Mary has want of a quiet word with you.” Katie wanted to thank the priest for everything he had done for them, but she couldn’t risk him becoming suspicious. Nothing could jeopardize her plans. Not at this stage. “Goodnight, Father, and thank you. Goodbye, girls.” Katie hurried out the door before her tears started falling.

  Denver Colorado

  Daniel Sullivan kicked at the boardwalk. Trust the train to be late today of all days. He needed to get home to Clover Springs. The fancy clothes he was wearing were making him itch all over.

  He scowled, frustration and the resulting lack of sleep making him uncharacteristically bad tempered. Why did I even bother coming here? I should have known better than to believe I could buy the store. He’d allowed himself to dream of a new life away from the trail. Ranching wasn’t for him. It suited his brother Davy and the ranch had prospered since Ma had handed over the reins. Daniel wanted something different. He had considered opening a general store but immediately dismissed the idea as he would be in competition with Brook’s mercantile. But then Mr. Brook decided it was time to head back East to his daughter and her family. He wasn’t getting any younger, and now that Clover Springs had a railroad, his store could be sold for a nice profit.

  Daniel’s grandfather and Mr. Brook had met on the wagon train that brought them to Clover Springs all those years ago. Legend had it that Grandpa Sullivan had taken the young Mr. Brook under his wing; hence the offer to sell Daniel the store at a good price. Although he had sufficient savings to meet the down payment, he needed a loan to buy the store.