Always

by Jessie Rose Case

  “I love this country.” She told him and bent to give him the water bottle back, as she did so, a chain came loose of her neck line and dangled in the light. Red Wolf caught it and looked it over, there was his gift. The gold nugget had been made into a mount. He looked at it intensely. A wolf with the stone in its grasp. The stone still uncut and unpolished.

  “You had it made up, you did not want it cut and polished?”

  He asked her turning it over, appreciating the workmanship and looking at it. A wolf. Him.

  “No.” She smiled. “I wanted it just how you gave it to me, they did a good job don’t you think? I asked Caroline to take it into town for me and have it made up.”

  “It’s as beautiful as its owner.” Elizabeth turned from him. She couldn’t let him see how much his words affected her. She gazed at the dying sun and recognised the lateness of the hour. They’d been there longer than she’d intended.

  “We should go.” She told him, they mounted and rode on.

  Dull Knife knew they were coming long before they got within half a mile of the village. He had been asked by Elizabeth not to celebrate something that had always belonged to them.

  So Dull Knife had respected her wishes. The tribe had been asked to greet a returning daughter on a visit to her family. They all knew what she had done for them and respected her reasons for it.

  The elders came out to meet her at her father’s residence. Each greeted her and offered their thanks. Elizabeth asked to speak to them all in pow wow. It was tradition when something so important happened for the Tribe.

  Elizabeth was only too aware of the great honour she had done Dull Knife and was concerned that his own sons could not do as much. There was honour to think about. Dull Knife ushered them all in. Pleasantries were offered, and the men smoked the pipe of peace. It was not offered to Elizabeth and she did not expect it to be, only the men of the tribe smoked in this way. The elders talked of things past, of things present and then of the future.

  It was then that Dull Knife told them that his daughter had something to tell them. Most of the elders understood the white man’s language but out of respect for them Elizabeth asked Dull Knife to translate.

  Elizabeth explained about the White man’s law. She was asked to explain how they could not own what was always theirs’s.

  Elizabeth told it as it was. That whether they had fought the white man or choose to live with them, the white man had taken what he wanted and decided without consulting those who had always been here, what they would do.

  They made a new country, a new world and new laws to govern it. The men were silent and she continued. She explained that with the help of Red Wolf and Running Elk and her father Dull Knife she had found a way to get around this.

  That in Dull Knife and his sons adopting her, she was able to do the same for them. She explained it had always been her own father’s wishes to respect and honour their people. She told them, she had used the laws in the white man’s world and in that way, protected their way of life.

  That a paper had been made and signed that would not only be respected in the white man’s world, it could not be broken and in time it will come to light that it is actually an Indian Nation who owns it all.

  Elizabeth outlined the one condition in the contract, that both, the Trelawney family and the Indian tribe were bonded in blood and land and neither could relinquish it without the other. The elders nodded quietly. Told her they needed to talk on the matter some more and would talk with her later. Elizabeth thanked them and withdrew.

  She walked through the doorway and into fresh air. She felt she needed it. She hoped they understood. Red Wolf was waiting for her. She walked up to him and just stood there. He instinctively put his arms around her and held her close to him. His lips in her hair. Her face on his chest. They were both unaware or cared about the people around them.

  Eventually he let her go, took her hand and led her away to her favourite place. With a squeeze of her hand he left her.

  Sometime later, White Dove found her sitting amongst the rushes.

  “Elizabeth is it wonderful to see you.” Elizabeth looked up and smiled at her Aunt. How she had missed her.

  “White Dove.” She called as she got up and walked to hug her. “I have missed you Aunt.” White Dove hugged her back.

  “Come, I have dinner waiting and much to tell you. What you have done for the tribe is a wonderful thing Esa”. White Dove told her linking arms and walking back to her Tepee.

  Elizabeth frowned. “I hope they accept it.” They talked about what she had done since Ben’s burial and White Dove told her how much she had missed her too.

  Dull Knife sent for her next morning.

  The tribal elders were waiting for her. She entered alone and sat where they told her. The eldest of them spoke. Dull Knife translated for her. He told her, that mother earth gave them the land they live on. That no man, White or Indian, can take what is given freely but, the White man, had more power than the Indian and the Indian ways were no longer respected by them and war, lost many braves on all sides.

  Elizabeth nodded. He went on. If what she had done, may help protect them from the advances of the White man, she had done well and would take their thanks with her. What came next was unexpected.

  “Child,” he told her. “If we are to be bonded in blood on this land. As your paper demands. Bound together. …” Dull Knife was not happy at translating the next statement and hesitated in doing so.

  Elizabeth feared what he was going to say. “We wish.” Dull Knife told her. “To honour you in the same way you have honoured us. You are to be more than an daughter adopted to us. We would wish you to be our daughter and the mix of our blood lines will preserve us all, for many generations to come.” They got up and left.

  Elizabeth turned to Dull Knife and he quietly asked her.

  “Do you understand their wishes.” Elizabeth nodded.

  “Yes father, they wish me to marry a warrior of the blood.”

  “You could tell them you wish to choose otherwise.” He told her looking worried. Elizabeth smiled at him. He’d tried to give her another choice.

  “No I could not. We both know that. It is the words on the paper and it would dishonour you and them and undo everything I have tried to do here.”

  Dull Knife sat tall. She knew her duty too well. He put his seal on the papers she’d given him.

  Elizabeth felt the need to be honest with him. “Father, I must tell you, had I been given this choice shortly after my return from back East, I would have taken it gladly.” She told him sadly.

  At that moment Dull Knife came to realise why he’s eldest son’s affections were not with his wife. Something he was responsible for.

  “I’m sorry child.”

  Elizabeth smiled. “So am I.”

  He nodded. “You should return to the Double T. This does not have to be decided now.”

  “Thank you.“ She told him and went to pack. White Dove was waiting for her.

  “Your leaving, going back to the Double T?”

  “Yes, father felt it best for me to go.”

  Elizabeth explained what had happened. White Dove saw the irony of it all. She leaned over and hugged her. No words could compensate for that knowledge.

  “Come with me?” Elizabeth asked her. White Dove looked at the only daughter she was ever likely to have.

  “I’m not ready. I cannot think of being there without him. My life is here until I do.” She told her.

  Elizabeth smiled. “I will miss you.” White Dove hugged her.

  “Let me help you pack.”

  Elizabeth said her goodbyes and rode home the way she’d came. Red Wolf did not go with her or say goodbye. Her escort saw her safely to the house

  Carl and Jake welcomed her home and Elizabeth went to bed she’d had two very difficult days and was glad they were behind her.

  CHAPTER TEN

  Winter 1879

  Elizabeth’s plans for the ranc
h started over the next few weeks. A cable told her some of the new stock would be arriving into Brownsville. Over breakfast, she discussed the details with Jake. Deciding she’d take a trip into town and make all the necessary arrangements herself. Black Dog and his men were back on duty having spent some time at the village and followed her in.

  Elizabeth made her way to see Mr. Bell. They discussed the financial arrangements with the towns folk first, then went onto the arrangements needed for the new stock. She wanted animal pens put up just outside of town and he was to purchase the land and have them built. He agreed the funds. Elizabeth was well pleased. Everything appeared to be in order. For all Mr. Bells, questionable attitude. He did know banking.

  She still hadn’t settled the matter of her party with him and his lack of invite to the Chan family. She had been clear on her instructions to him and he’d ignored her. Elizabeth wasn’t about to let that go.

  “Mr Bell, before we conclude our business, I would like to thank you for arranging for the towns folk to attend my party.” Mr. Bell visibly primed. “However,” she continued. “I was surprised that not all my business partners were present.”

  Mr. Bell now looked visibly confused. Elizabeth mentally shook her head in annoyance. “The Chan family, Mr. Bell, they were not invited I understand.” She told him.

  “Well yes, Elizabeth, they are…. Chinese.” He told her.

  “Yes Mr. Bell, in the same way I am Indian.” Elizabeth took a deep breath. “Let me be very clear Mr. Bell.” She continued. “The Chan family and I are in business, I expect them to make me a great deal of money and in doing so, this town. If I were a wise man, I would be falling over myself to ensure my good favour with them. I have seen what they can do Mr. Bell and I’m telling you now, that family are going to be rich. Very rich. And a wise banker would make sure they did indeed feel welcome. Good day Mr. Bell, always a pleasure.” Elizabeth rose from her chair and held out her hand.

  Mr. Bell was clearly not sure if he should take offence or thank her hesitated. A moment later he’d clearly made up his mind, to do the latter and shook hands seeing her to the door.

  Elizabeth made her way across town to the new buildings, followed by Black Dog. The Chan family owned three with Elizabeth. The centre one, doubled as their home. Elizabeth walked into the shop as it was opened for her.

  Elizabeth recognised the younger man who had been in the bank that day.

  “Good morning, I’m Elizabeth Trelawney.” She told him holding out her hand.

  The young man instinctively took it and bowed while holding onto it. Elizabeth smiled at him and shook it for him. He stood, and quickly responded.

  “My lady, my father would be honoured to see you. Please wait here and I will get him.” Elizabeth took the seat offered to her. Both Mr. Chan senior and his son came back quickly.

  Elizabeth rose form her chair and outstretched her hand to Mr. Chan Sr.

  “Mr. Chan,” she said and they exchanged pleasantries. “I have come to offer my apologies and thanks.” She told him. Both Mr. Chan senior and Jr, looked at each other. Elizabeth clarified. “Mr. Bell was instructed to organise for the towns folks to attend my home for my 21st birthday and he did not extend the invitation as he should have done, to all my partners.” She told them. “And I particularly wanted to thank you for doing this.”

  Elizabeth took out the chain they had made for her and the pendent. “And the plaque, it was beautifully done.”

  “You have nothing to be apologising for my lady.” He told her. “Please join me in my office, I would like to show you how we are doing.”

  “I would like that very much.”

  “Do you require your protection.” He asked her indicating Black Dog outside the shop.

  “No Mr. Chan, his place is outside.” And followed him through to the back.

  Elizabeth was offered the bosses chair at his desk and offered tea and some delicious food. Elizabeth accepted and commented on just how lovely it was and she meant it. Mr. Chan Sr, showed her all the business accounts.

  Elizabeth asked about products, supply and delivery. She was keen on knowing about the silks and jewellery. She felt this was something they could expand on. Many of the cities would love this quality of work she was sure.

  Elizabeth mentioned Vera’s shop and that it might be good to talk to her. Mr. Chan agreed and answered her questions eagerly. She was particularly interested in the jewellery. She asked about re-investment and they talked for several hours. When they were done, Mr. Chan offered to show her around the other two shops and the stock.

  Elizabeth was very happy to do both. Asking his son to accompany her, Mr. Chan Sr, bowed to her and she was led away.

  Elizabeth looked at the stock and wondered at the quality of the silk, she enquired on its manufacture and the quality of the stitch and print designs. She was most impressed and could not remember seeing such quality back East.

  Elizabeth felt it would be much prized and said so to Mr. Chan Jr. “I would like this to be made up for my home. Curtains and mouldings I think. Send someone to measure up. I want it all done. The rugs too.” She turned and found him writing several things down. “Mr. Chan, may I ask you, do you have a first name?”

  “Why yes, my lady, I am called Jin Tao Chan.”

  “Well, Jin will do nicely,” she told him.

  “I am Elizabeth”. Jin hesitated and looked surprised. Clearly not sure if that would be appropriate. Elizabeth smiled. “I guess that is something we need to work on.” And continued to look over the jewellery. Making suggestions that they might like to look into buying gold and precious stones from the Indians. Although that information was for family only, she told him. The quality would be of her pendant. Jin looked interested and wrote it down. She stated the shop may need some security and she’d be happy to supply it and contacts to several cities.

  She found the laundry very efficient, as were the restaurant and the store. It was all most impressive and she told Mr. Chan Sr exactly that when she came back. He seemed most pleased and extended an invitation to join them at dinner.

  Elizabeth thanked him for his hospitality and stated that at any other time she would be most happy to accept but she had business still to do but asked if she could take a selection of the delicious food with her for dinner. Mr. Chan looked delighted and she held out her hand for him, he took it and bowed over it.

  “My lady.” And bowed to her again.

  “Mr. Chan, you do not have to call me lady.” She told him.

  Mr. Chan Sr. was thoughtful for a moment. “You are royalty here are you not?” he asked her.

  Elizabeth smiled. “Mr. Chan, that is complicated question.”

  “Just so,” he told her. “But none the less, you are and our family will honour our partnership and you in such a manner that befits it. Good day my lady.”

  Elizabeth smiled kindly and thanked him for his hospitality and hoped to see him again soon. As Jin opened the door for her. Elizabeth thanked him and held out her hand.

  “Jin, it was nice seeing you again, both you and your father are most welcome at the Double T and should you have need of us, send one of the boys. I look forward to sampling more of that delicious food and expect to see someone about those fabrics and rugs.”

  “Thank you – Elizabeth.” Mr. Chan Sr on hearing the exchanged corrected his son in Chinese.

  “My father does not approve of me using your first name.”

  “I see,” she told him.

  “May I still use yours?”

  “I would like that very much.” Elizabeth thanked them again and went in search of Vera.

  .

  Elizabeth spent the remaining day between business and pleasure while in town. She saw all her business partners. Returned the papers to Mayor Green to be notarised and sent to land and company registry.

  The food she’d ordered found her on her way to Mr and Mrs Canes. She thanked the delivery boy and they took it with them. It was dark when she finally lef
t having spent a very pleasant evening with Mr and Mrs Cane, Kate and Caroline. The food was exotic and delicious.

  It was well after midnight when she got back. There were lights on in the house, Black Dog took her horse and the other braves dispersed with her thanks. As she stepped onto the porch the door flew open and there stood Carl, Jake and Red Wolf, they all looked like they were about to kill someone.

  “What’s happened?” she asked, they each looked at each other registering her concern and Jake started laughing.

  “Night boys,” he called out heading to the bunk house. “Glad your back safe Elizabeth.” He told her giving her a hug as he went by. Elizabeth started to look confused.

  “What’s going on?” she asked. Red Wolf turned and went back inside the house. Carl still at the door was left to explain.

  “Well you see Elizabeth, I came back and Jake said you’d gone to town this morning early with Black Dog and he was kinda expecting you to be back a couple of hours ago and then Red Wolf turned up and we realised you weren’t with him and it was getting later by the minute and…”

  Elizabeth cut in. “You all panicked,” she told him. Carl looked somewhat embarrassed.

  “Yeah I guess we did.” Elizabeth tried not to smile. This was serious. They had to stop treating her like a child, one that needed looking after. She couldn’t run this place and not go anywhere. That was ridiculous.