University of California Berkeley 7^ ^ A^t^e^- . 3- THE BRAND NEW BOOKS MARCUS WHITMAN: PATHFINDER AND PATRIOT. Eells - - - - Net $2.50 CHRONICLES OF OLDFIELDS. Allen - 1.50 PIONEER DAYS ON PUGET SOUND. Denny 2.00 CHAPERONING ADRIENNE THROUGH THE YELLOWSTONE. Harriman - 1.00 THE ROAD OF LIFE. Poems. Smith - 1.00 LYRICS OF FIR AND FOAM. Coe - - 1.25 TILLICUM TALES. Seattle Writers' Club 1.50 LOVE NEVER FAILETH. Powers r - - .5o REMINISCENCES OF SEATTLE. Phelps 1.25 SONGS O' THE SOUND. Harriman - - 2.00 SONGS O' THE OLYMPICS. Harriman - 2.00 THE ALICE HARRIMAN COMPANY PUBLISHERS OP FINE BOOKS DENNY BUILDING, SEATTLE, WASHINGTON Descriptive Catalog sent upon request THE BRAND A Tale of the Flathead Reservation By THERESE BRODERICK (Tin Schreiner) HW 1909 THE ALICE HARRIMAN COMPANY SEATTLE, WASHINGTON Copyright, 1909, by THERESE BRODERICK Dramatic Rights Reserved PRINTERS AND BINDERS LOWMAN & HANFORD CO. SEATTLE TABLE OP CONTENTS Chapter I Bess Fletcher's First Western Acquaintance 11 II The Golden Glimpse 21 III Henry West's Ideal - - 28 IV The Hesitating Lariat 38 V The Motley Spectators at Poison - - 43 VI HW Ranch 46 VII "I Would Have Done More for an Injun" - 53 VIII Bess Learns the Real Cause of the Accident - 59 IX "Helen" at the St. Ignatius Mission 65 X A Western Tragedy - 76 XI The Miracle of Womanhood 87 XII An Indian in the Moonlight 97 XIII A Frantic Herd - 105 XIV The First Visit of Dave Davis 117 XV A Journey Up Flathead Lake - 130 XVI "Mon Desir" and the Box of Roses 137 XVII Bess Fletcher's New Gun and Its First Victim 144 XVIII Mauchacho Wins the Race - 153 XIX The Strength of a Beaded Belt 166 XX The Camping Trip and "Peter Pan" - - 181 XXI The Trout Deal 191 XXII A Pseudo Squaw 198 XXIII An Unusual Proposal 206 XXIV Why a Cheek Blanches 213 XXV Berenice Morton's Arrival 221 XXVI A Wedding Day - 235 XXVII "I am but an Indian" - - 244 XXVIII A Winter's Vigil 250 XXIX The Brand HW 255 XXX "When You Can Forget" - - - - 268 ILLUSTRATIONS Bess - Frontispiece Sunset on Flathead Lake 211 To all who know the Golden West, And those who fain would feel Its charm and mystery, and test Its worth, which is so real; To all who love God's mountains, His vast expanse of plain, His forests, lakes and fountains, And the secrets they contain This book is humbly given. TIN SCHREINER. THE BRAND CHAPTEE I BESS FLETCHER'S FIRST WESTERN ACQUAINTANCE For two days the westbound train had hur- ried over the prairies as if it understood the heart of the girl and strove to gratify her im- patience for a glimpse of the mountains. She sat at the ear window and gazed fascinated at the scenes which were so new and strange that she forgot the coach with its tired people forgot even her brother, who sat with his book, bored and indifferent to the flying panorama. Her soul left the plush-covered seats and suit- cases to follow the wild creatures that moved in the gorges or climbed the wonderful mountain slopes. She did not hear the repeated "I'm going for a smoke, Bess." Her soul was without, her eyes following a mysterious, half-hidden form. "It's a deer! Oh, Jim, it's a deer!" she ex- claimed excitedly, turning to her brother for cor- roboration. But the flashing brown eyes looked into the face of a stranger. 11 THE BRAND "Oh, I beg pardon/' she breathed, her cheek flushing. "My brother sat there only a moment ago, and I thought I was addressing him." The stranger smiled. "Then I infer that you are Miss Fletcher. I just now saw Mr. Fletcher going into the smoking room. Two years ago I had the pleasure of making his acquaintance when he was in the Flathead country." While he was speaking, she noted what a large man he was, how deliberately he spoke and in what an unusually musical voice. She saw the flush of health and strength in his face, con- trasting so greatly to her brother's pale, emaci- ated countenance. She wondered what color his eyes were, but as he looked at her with fleeting glances she could not tell. The thought flashed through her mind that he would be very hand- some if only he would open his eyes frankly. In fact, so preoccupied was she reading the young man that she was scarcely aware of what he was saying to her. Just then she saw James coming. "Well, well, Mr. Davis ! I'm glad to meet you once more." Fletcher reached forth his hand in friendly recognition. "Permit me to introduce my sister, whom I am taking to the Flathead with me." With a nod the stranger explained how he had already had the pleasure of speaking with Miss Fletcher. "You are not looking like the hale and hearty cowboy whom I saw two years ago riding over the range on the reservation," he continued. "It 12 BE8S> WESTERN ACQUAINTANCE must be the return to civilization did not agree with you." "I was very well until a few months ago," said Fletcher, "but the worry and strain of set- tling my father's affairs used me up generally, and I am now going West to recuperate. I love the Western life, with its sunshine, its out-of- doors, its fresh air and vast breathing space. I wouldn't exchange the three summers on the range for all my life in the city." "Do you know, Mr. Davis, I have become so fascinated with tales of the cattle country that I feel almost as enthusiastic as my brother," said Bess, brushing the stray lock of fluffy brown hair out of her eye. "Do you think," she continued, "that I shall love the West as he does?" "I hope so," said Davis, with a swift glance. "I already know what a cayuse is, and also a lariat, though I am not so sure as regards a teepee; still, if I remember correctly, it is some- thing good to eat." Simultaneously both gentlemen burst forth in hearty laughter, and when Davis could speak he said: "I am afraid, Miss Fletcher, your ap- petite will be gone when you see or even smell one." Bess wrinkled her brow in perplexity. "Oh," she said, "James has told me so many tales of the Indians and cowboys and all, that I scarcely know what to believe. Nevertheless, it won't be long now before I shall have solved a few of the mysteries at least." 13 THE BRAND Davis began carefully to roll a cigarette, shaping it daintily with his thumb and index fingers ; then poising it carefully between his lips, he sought a match in his vest pocket and excused himself, hoping to meet them both very often during the summer. Bess watched him as he slowly sauntered toward the end of the car with a look of inquiry. "I think I would like him better if he would look directly at one. Who is he, James? A cattleman or cowboy, or what is it you called them oh, yes, squaw man?" "You'll have to guess again, Bess. He is Dave Davis, the Indian agent of the Flathead Reservation. He is probably on his way to the sub-agency at Ronan." She gave a little sigh in answer, and asked how long it would be before the train reached Selish. "I fear you are nearly worn out, James. You had better lie down and rest. It is now four o'clock, and at five you say we will reach the end of our train journey. It's been rather long and tedious. How far away New York begins to feel, doesn't it? Oh, I wonder if I shall really like it away out here in the West?" James quietly settled down for a nap, and Bess went on with her mental soliloquy. The West ! What had she not dreamed of the West ! Its wonderful mountains, so great and bold, rock- ribbed and ancient as the sun, verdant with the towering pines, and again, white and softened by 14 BE 8 8' WESTERN ACQUAINTANCE the crown of winter. In fancy she had seen their rugged sides caressed by crystal streams, and had stooped to drink where deer had splashed. Then forth stretched the plain, far into the blue hori- zon. On she dreamed, till the porter warned her it was nearly time for them to leave the train. Hurriedly awakening her brother, he hastily gathered together their numerous grips and boxes. So busily engaged were her hands that she had to blow the persistent wisp of hair out of her eyes. "For pity's sake, Bess, can't you pin that bunch of hair up?" "It won't stay up, James. I get so annoyed at the old forelock that sometimes I feel like pulling it out," and all unconsciously she re- peated the motion, at which they both laughed. "Here we are, dearie, at last. I wonder if anyone will meet us. Come, let the porter help you off with a few of those bird cages." As they stepped from the train she felt to everything which came within her range of ob- servation like a huge interrogation point. She glanced hurriedly about, hoping to see Henry West, and wondering if she would know him. Just then she saw Mr. Davis lifting his hat to her, both in recognition and farewell, as he walked to a man holding a beautiful saddle horse. The Indian agent glanced back at the tall, grace- ful girl, with her pretty traveling dress and hat of brown. She could not know that he noted with 15 THE BRAND what an air she walked, head and shoulders erect, chin up aggressively, nor that he thought : "Gad! but she is great! And what a treat after three years of Indians. I shall certainly see you often, Miss Fletcher." "Do you see him anywhere, James?" Bess was all animation. "West? No, sister. We better hurry over here where there is the best little hotel you ever saw or heard tell of; so, immaculately clean, and excellent food plain, but cooked to the queen's taste. That is, if it's run by the same party who used to be here. My mouth still waters in recol- lection of some of the good trout and muffins which I have had at Mrs. Strong's." Nestled closely to the hillside was the hotel, and as Bess was greeted by a sweet-faced girl and her mother she wondered if all Western hospital- ity were as cordial. James had ordered their trunks brought over, and soon Bess came from her room fresh and clean and rested, dressed in a becoming tan- colored riding suit of corduroy. It was early May. In the mountains the even- ings were still cold, and a blazing fire crackled as they sat down to dinner. It seemed to Bess that she never was so hungry in all her life. Bis- cuits never tasted so good before. She saw, with gratification, that James ate as he had not in weeks. "Did you ever feel, James, that you could eat 16 BE8S' WESTERN ACQUAINTANCE everything in sight? That's just the way I feel now, but I'll try to leave enough for you, dear." This brother and sister were all the world to each other. The mother died while Bess was still young, and most of her life had been spent in the convent school. During her summer vacation she was often with her father and brother in New York. The past year and a half, since the death of their father, Bess and James had been to- gether constantly. He had hoped to carry on his father's law business, but a severe illness necessi- tated his leaving the city, and so he gladly ac- cepted the offer of Henry West to come to his ranch and assume the foremanship. James and Henry West had been in school at Harvard together, and later both began the study of law. The close association of years caused the insoluble bond of friendship between them. Colin West, the father of Henry, was a Scotchman, of education, tact and good judg- ment ; a man respected by everyone with whom he came in contact, Fate or fortune had placed him in the West while still a young man. His wife was half Indian blood, and yet one of the most refined and intellectual of women. Her son was proving himself an able manager of the vast herds of cattle and buffalo which Colin West had accumulated, and since his death four years ago Henry had had the entire management of the ranch. Here James spent three long, delightful sum- mers. Here he learned to ride and "rope" like 17 THE BRAND any of the cowboys on the range. It was always with reluctance that he left, after the fall round- up, to take up his studies again. How glad he was to return now, in hopes of soon regaining his health and strength. He had hesitated in bringing his sister into this new life, and yet he could not leave her alone in New York. She was wild with delight when he asked her to come, for ever since she had listened to his never-ending, interesting tales of the West had she hoped that she, too, might come to know its lure. She loved out-of-door life, and the few months of her vacation in- the city were usually spent riding, so that she had become a very good horsewoman, and, best of all, had grown to strong and perfect womanhood. She was girlish, and her twenty years rested lightly on her shoul- ders. Her optimistic and sunshiny disposition won for her the love and admiration of all her friends, and even strangers smiled at her happy face. As most of her life had been spent at school among sweet-faced nuns, she had grown up un- contaminated by the world, pure-minded and whole-souled. Her faith was implicit, and never yet had she had a rude awakening to the fact that all were not true nor good, nor even sincere. Several times she had considered seriously be- coming a nun herself, but her love of nature, of out-of-doors, of friends, of her father and brother, of the world generally, made her pause. Then, too, she knew her bright and merry nature could never endure the strict confines of the cloister 18 BE 88' WESTERN ACQUAINTANCE and the shadow of the somber black robes. "No, I cannot, for I am not good enough," was always her mental decision. And now that her father was dead and she and James were alone, she had put the thought from her mind entirely. The nuns realized what her work would be, for her talents in music and painting were ex- traordinary ; and she also had that gift, which few possess, of making a success of anything she undertook. Failure was not in her vocabulary, and she never used the word, either mentally or audibly. "Why in the world, Bess, have you put on your riding togs?" Bess looked up with surprise and replied: "Why, James, are we not going horseback to the HW Ranch?" "We can't start for the ranch tonight. It is at least thirty-five miles, and besides you can never ride so far, even though Henry West should bring saddle horses. The stage leaves here for Poison early in the morning, and we will, in all probability, meet him there. Still, he wired he would meet us here at Selish. It is early yet, and he may come soon." With a little impatient gesture of putting back the hair from her forehead, and with her eyes sparkling, half defiantly and half in fun, Bess said: "My dear, solicitous brother, let me tell you a few things right now. I am here in the great West where you have told me there is perfect and untrammeled freedom. Don't begin 19 THE BRAND using a lot of don'ts and can'ts, for I am going to ride 'and ever to ride', when and where and with whom my fancy dictates ; I am going to talk with anyone who interests me, be he white or full-blood Indian. I am going to Oh, what am I not going to do! even shock my dear, old brother, half to death, every day you dear" She jumped from her seat at the table and after flinging her arms around his neck, she was out of the room, her merry laugh ringing in his ears, before he had time to remonstrate. "My dear little sister," he thought, "I pray there may no harm come to you, and that your frankness may not be misconstrued by those who are ever read if to criticise." 20 CHAPTER II THE GOLDEN GLIMPSE Bess had donned her fluffy brown tam-o- shanter and stood on the veranda. Shadows of evening were silently gathering in the valley, and yet she could see that beyond the hill the sun still shone. "That hill looks rather high," she said briskly, "but I do so long to see what lies beyond it. I think I'll go up the road and take a glimpse before the sun sets. Brother won't miss me and I'll only be gone a minute." As she walked she stooped to pick some shin- ing butter-cups, and to thrust in her hair waxen leaves of the Oregon-grape, with its bright yel- low clusters of blossoms. So interested was she in each new T leaf and stone that the crest of the long, winding road had been reached before she was aware. Lifting her eyes she caught her breath, and unconsciously lifted her hands in silent adoration of the glorious panorama spread out before her, her first real look at the "golden West." It was golden indeed, for the sun had just dipped beyond the purple mountains and the scene was flooded with golden light. Away, away to the North and East and West stretched the vast rolling valley of the Indian Reservation, the Little Bitter Root mountains guarding it on 21 THE BRAND the left and the Mission Range rising modestly on the East. She could see but the faint purple outline of the low hills to the northward. Dotted here and there were soft greens, of irrigated reaches, and trees, showing where the waters flowed and at which the grazing herds quenched their thirst. Bess was filled with awe at the magnificent scene, and reverently clasped her hands and lifted her eyes as she realized the im- mensity of it. When the Lord of Hosts should upon the last day assemble all the people of the earth together in judgment, what more fitting place could he choose! There he might sit on the crest of yonder mountain, with his host of angels about him, and below in the expanse of sweeping prairie, unmarred by the hand of man, adorned only by the divine touch of bountiful Providence, might convene all, the good might here find a foretaste of heaven, and the less for- tunate could hope for mercy of which they had not dreamed nor even dared to hope. Surely the Creator of all this beauty would condone the faults of poor, frail humanity who had fallen from grace in the hard and bitter struggle of life. So she stood, entranced, in the fading light of day, unheeding the last thrilling notes of meadow lark, or the balsam-laden air wafted to her from the evergreen slopes of the mountains. Closing her eyes in a softly murmured prayer, she stood silent and motionless, and when she again looked upon the scene the gray ness of early night had 22 THE GOLDEN GLIMPSE settled over all, softening every outline with indistinctness. Abruptly she turned to hurry back to the hotel, when, in the distance, she heard the clatter of approaching hoofs. A little alarm of fear and loneliness stirred in her breast and she hurried down the road. All the bravado with which she had left her brother had suddenly deserted her, and she could feel the heart-throbs in her throat nearly choking her. She did not even glance up the road, although she heard the hoof -beats ever coming nearer. "What if it should be Indians!" The thought filled her with ever increasing alarm. On she sped, as rapidly as the gradual descent permitted, then she struck a rock, and ere she could regain her footing she fell on her knees. Scarcely had the damp earth left an imprint on her skirt when she regained her feet, and now glanced behind her. . Silhouetted against the evening sky, on the very crest of the hill, she saw, in her momentary glance, a lone horseman leading a second horse. The next instant they had begun slowly to de- scend the hill. Bess, seeing a huge, flat boulder to the right of the road, stepped out upon it so that she could be distinctly seen, even tho it was now rapidly growing dark. She looked up the road at the approaching trio, her face raised fearlessly and confidently, although her knees were still trembling. As the man passed he courteously lifted his 23 THE BRAND broad sombrero, speaking at the same time in a low, commanding voice to the horse he was lead- ing. "Mauchacho, I am ashamed of you! Did you never see a lady before? You certainly But his voice grew indistinct in the distance and Bess did not hear the end of the chiding the dainty animal had received for pricking up his ears and pulling back on the hackamore. "Thank goodness, it was not an Indian after all," she said aloud, as she hurried down to the hotel. The lone rider had already reached the steps, and she saw James heartily shaking both his hands. She stopped a moment watching the pair standing in the flood of light which poured out of the open door- way. The stranger was tall and straight as an arrow, even though his shoul- ders had a tired droop. Heavily fringed leather "chapps" covered his trousers, a mackinaw coat, carelessly fastened and a white silk handkerchief knotted loosely about his throat completed his unpretentious costume. She could see that his face looked dark and swarthy, but it was lighted by a smile of greeting, displaying a row of firm, even teeth. "Well, old boy, it seems mighty good to see you once more, and to breathe this air again. I had just started to find my sister, who has strayed off somewhere, when I heard you com- ing," Bess heard her brother saying, "and I hope I may find her before someone lariats her for a maverick and sticks his brand on her." 24 THE GOLDEN GLIMPSE The stranger laughed. "You have not for- gotten all your Western jingle, even though you have been gone a year and a half. I saw a young woman up the road a way. Perhaps she is the sister you are searching." Just then James caught sight of the girl, and hastily summoning her to come forward, intro- duced her to his old friend and comrade, after scolding her, half seriously, for staying away so long without telling him where she was going. Smiling at her brother, Bess Fletcher turned to look into one of the strongest faces and the most unfathomable eyes she had ever seen. The features were unmistakably Indian, and it was hard to believe that the man was only a quarter- blood, as she knew. The square chin and wide, sensitive mouth, the dilated nostrils and promin- ent cheek bones stamped the face with char- acter, strength and determination. One could see in the gloomy depths of the eyes a strange in- termingling of sympathy, with the truculent gleam which had shone for centuries in the eyes of his ancestors. They impressed one, that he would either be wholly white, or entirely Indian, according to circumstances or environment. As Bess turned to acknowledge the introduc- tion, her hand, half raised, paused as she meas- ured this man. "Mr. West. But but," she added hesitat- ingly, "you do not look one bit as I West's lips parted in a smile as he replied, "Had you expected to see me with a blanket on 25 THE BRAND and a feather in my hair? I hope you are not greatly disappointed." For a moment she was nonplussed. "Oh, no ! But you are different somehow, and if there is any disappointment it is a happy one." "Thank you, Miss Fletcher," came in a low and almost inaudible voice. James had been listening with interest. "I guess I had impressed her that you looked more like " he floundered and ended tactlessly, "well, like me, than an Indian, Henry." The "breed's" eyes closed spasmodically and his teeth shut hard before he replied. "Jim, sometimes I feel that I could willingly be skinned alive, if it would make me like you." Never before in all their relationship had this outburst of confidence escaped him; yet here in the presence of this beautiful, fair woman, his usual reticence and reserve for the moment left him, and the secret desire of his heart and soul escaped his lips. Angry at his loss of control, he turned and said, "I had entirely forgotten the horses. We came at a pretty swift pace from Poison. I would have reached here before train- time, but Eagle got a stone in his shoe, and I had the devil's own time getting it out. I must go and attend to their beds and supper." With this he stepped out into the gloom. Bess had gone into the house and was stand- ing warming herself near the stove before her brother also entered and with a shiver hastened to the fire. 26 THE GOLDEN GLIMPSE "Oh, Jim, isn't he just splendid!" cried the girl. "I had no idea there were such men as he away out here in the West! No wonder you rave over him and always sing his praises." "Do you know, Bess, if he were my own brother I could not honor and love him more. At college he was so superior in mind, ability, and morals to the majority of his colleagues, that every one looked up to him. He was one of them and no gathering was quite complete without Henry West. I never thought of him as an Indian, and anyway that is his greatest charm. Whatever else he may be, he certainly is a gentle- man." Bess threw her arms impulsively about his neck. Then, "Good night, dearie, I am half jealous of him already. Tell him good-night for me. I want to retire so as to be up for our early start in the morning. I am tired, more tired than I knew. Don't stay up late. You must be worn out. Brother, I believe I love this new, strange land !" With a kiss she left him and went to her room. Hastily undressing, she was soon ready for bed. Going to the window she put up the shade, and placing her hands between her brow and the window she peered into the night. Her bosom stirred with a tremor of excitement as she whis- pered, "The West! The mysterious West! And he Henry West." She flung the window wide open, and hastily getting into bed was soon asleep. 27 CHAPTER III HENRY WEST'S IDEAL The aromatic smell of coffee and bacon filled Bess' nostrils as she awoke to a glorious morning. At first she looked about in wonderment, trying to think where she was. With the sudden realiza- tion she sprang out of the snug bed, and going to the open window, filled her lungs with deep draughts of pure, mountain air. It did not take her many minutes to dress and place her be- longings in the trunk, which she fastened so it would be all ready and cause no delay. One of her habits was punctuality, and she never felt that she had a right to infringe upon the time of others by keeping them waiting. She came down stairs, and going into the sitting-room to see if her brother was there, was greeted by a cheery "good-morning" from Mrs. Strong. "Breakfast is nearly ready, Miss Fletcher. The boys are out getting the horses ready and putting the trunks on the stage." Just then they came upon the porch, and Bess hastened forward with pleasant greetings. "James, your cheeks are getting tanned already." Turning to Henry West, she continued, "You are certainly good medicine to have such a marked effect upon my brother so soon." "I have never aspired to the dignity of the 28 HENRY WEST'S IDEAL Medicine-man, Miss Fletcher, but with your per- mission I shall certainly consider the matter," he replied facetiously. The flush of shyness mounted to her cheeks. "Really, Mr. West, you I I did not mean it in that way," she said, trying to cover her con- fusion. He felt sorry for her and assured her that she might say anything she wished concerning the Indians, as neither his mother nor himself were at all sensitive on the subject. However, Bess was greatly relieved when just then Mabel Strong came to announce breakfast Again their appetites seemed abnormal, and the rainbow trout, caught not an hour before in the stream which skirted the mountains, together with the delicious muffins, bacon and eggs, golden-browned potatoes and coffee, disappeared as if by magic. Henry West ate sparingly, and watched James with gratification as he enjoyed his meal. "Jim, old boy," he said, in his low, softly modu- lated voice, "you'll be ready for the June round- up if you keep up that clip at grub." "How about me, Mr. West?" asked Bess, as she helped herself to the third muffin and the second egg. James threw up his head with a hearty laugh. "If you keep up your 'clip 7 there won't be a cayuse on HW ranch that could carry you a mile." They all joined in the laugh, and then Henry 29 THE BRAND West asked if he might be excused and go fetch the horses. "Mr. West, why did you bring two horses?" asked Bess, later, as she watched the animals brought up to the porch. "Why, I thought perhaps that James would like to ride, but I am afraid he better not attempt it just yet." "Oh, let me ! Now James," as he raised his hand in remonstrance, "you know it doesn't tire me in the least." "Yes, dearie, but riding a few hours on the smooth pavements of New York is entirely dif- ferent from a thirty-five mile trip across an Indian reservation." A look of disappointment clouded her face, and Henry West hastened to speak : "Mauchacho is perfectly safe, and when she gets tired we can stop and wait for the stage." Bess looked at him with grateful eyes and cried impulsively: "You de oh, thank you, Mr. West," correcting herself hastily. Henry West looked at her with a sympa- thetic glance, and had she looked she might have read with what eloquence his eyes asked her to speak that word dear. James saw that any further expostulation would be useless, so he helped West adjust the stirrups. Suddenly the 'breed looked at Bess. "But perhaps you use a side-saddle, Miss Fletcher? In 30 HENRY WEST'S IDEAL that case I fear you'll have to be disappointed, and go in the stage after all.' 7 "Oh, my, no!" she cried before the words were out of his mouth. "James taught me to ride like a boy, and besides I know how a horse should be guided across the neck." Her chin went up with a saucy tilt at her superior knowl- edge as she went around in front of the horse to "get acquainted," as she called it. West watched her as she rubbed her nose against the dainty animal's, unconscious of his interest. "So your name is Mauchacho? I wonder what that means? And you have a forelock which bothers your eyes, the same as mine does. I wonder if you are used to skirts?" West came around where she was standing, and as if in reply to the questions which she had been asking the horse, he said, "Mauchacho was my sister's horse. He has never been used at any of the round-ups. No one has been on his back, excepting myself, since since Helen " After a moment he went on : "I named him Mauchacho because it is the Indian word for bird. He is very swift, and in a race always takes the lead." He snapped his fingers, and the horse lifted up his front foot and daintily placed it in his master's hand. "Shake hands with your new mistress now." Then he added: "Take him. He is yours to keep, Miss Fletcher." Before Bess could recover from her astonishment and embarrassment he added: "I notice that you have the same idio- 31 THE BRAND syncrasy that Mauchacho has." Bess tried to think if his remark was a reflection on her un- ruly foretop, and was about to ask him, when he left her and walked to James, already seated in the stage. Presently, when he turned, he saw Bess al- ready in the saddle and adjusting her skirts. With a smile at her independence, he swung into his own saddle and started up the road, saying: "We'll lead, as the stage may be a little slow and the dust is annoying." Bess turned to wave her hand and throw a kiss in farewell to Mrs. Strong and Mabel, who had come out on the porch to witness the depar- ture. With a parting "Don't get lonely nor tired, brother," and a wave of her handkerchief toward the stage, she urged Mauchacho forward to join Eagle and his rider. The horses started steadily up the road which wound around the hillside. West had not spok- en since she joined him, but silently made notes of her graceful seat in the saddle; how she held the reins firmly, yet lightly, in her left hand; how her shoulders were flung back ; how her nos- trils were dilating and her chest was moving in rhythmic, full breathing. Once, as she breathed long and deep, she cried out, "Oh, it seems as if I never shall get all this delicious air I want! What a glorious morning! See, the sun is only just peeping over the hills! Oh, the lazy old fel- low! What time is it, I wonder?" Henry West replied without first glancing at 32 HENRY WESTS IDEAL his watch, "It is about half after seven," but to assure her he opened his watch and simply add- ed, "Yes." "You stood there last evening," he said, point- ing to the flat boulder upon which Bess had stood so tremblingly in the twilight. "I felt that it was you." The horses were breathing hard when they reached the summit, and West drew rein that they might recover from the exertion. "Why don't you wear spurs?" inquired Bess. "I supposed no cowboy's costume was ever com- plete without them." "I do wear them when I am riding a cayuse and after cattle or on the round-up," he ex- plained, "but Eagle nor Mauchacho nor my other thoroughbred doesn't need them. Do you, old boy?" he interrogated, bending over and giving the beautiful horse a sound "love-pat" on the neck. Again Bess had become entranced at the won- drous scene which lay before her, even more glorious than the one of the night before. A song arose to her lips. As the first few notes uncon- sciously escaped her, and the rich, full melody floated out upon the morning air, she suddenly collected herself. "Oh, I could not help it," she apologized. Henry West looked at her with pleading eyes as he begged her to go on. "Please don't mind me. Sing out the joy in your heart," he said, gently. 33 THE BRAND As side by side the horses began the stony ascent of the opposite side of the hill, she sang, at first softly, then forgetting all else in the world except that she was young and happy and glad to be alive, the music became full, sweet and strong, and in her rich, sympathetic voice she poured forth her heart. "The sun is rising o'er the ocean, The smiling waters greet the day; The joyous winds to dancing motion Wake the billows and the spray. See where the clouds roll up the mountains! Night has her misty banner furled, And springing from a thousand fountains Light and joy o'erflow the world!" Here she paused, her heart too full to go on. Neither spoke, and when they had reached the foot of the hill and the long, level stretch of road lay before them, the horses started into a swift pace across the plain. On, on they went, grad- ually slowing into a steady, swinging gait. Both horses were single-footers, and they moved along without any apparent effort. How delightful it was! How Bess enjoyed every moment! The brisk morning air painted her cheeks rosily and filled her large, brown eyes with sparkling ex- citement. Occasionally a little cry of keenest pleasure escaped Bess' lips. Henry West was apparently oblivious to all about him; his eyes were looking straight ahead and his lips were closed firmly, as if with an ef- 34 HENRY WEST'S IDEAL fort to restrain his thoughts. All his life he had thought of the day and dreamed of the time when his ideal might be by his side. On his lone- ly rides across the plains or hills in quest of cat- tle or looking after his horses, his heart and soul had been filled with thoughts of Her. Never had he found her among the girls of his own peo- ple. Never had he seen her in all his years at school and college, although many who were fair and sweet would gladly have accepted his atten- tions. Always a welcome guest at the homes of his acquaintances, entertained and feted until he had become surfeited with it all, his heart was still an empty void, and his soul still longed for her of whom he dreamed. Last night she came! The moment he heard her voice he knew it! The instant he saw her eyes, her face, her hair, her form, he felt like crying out in his exquisite pain of unbearable joy, "At last you have come; you for whom I have hoped, longed, sought, waited through all the ages of time! Oh, my love, my life! And yet I can not, dare not even presume to touch your hand! Oh, the irony of fate! You are so fair, so white I, O God! I am but an Indian! They say we know how to hate ! We know, too, how to love; but how much, how hopelessly, I never knew till now ! And yet" a swift thought came "and yet my mother! How I love her! What an honor to be my mother's son !" Bess stole a shy glance at the set face of her companion and wondered what he could be pon- 35 THE BRAND dering so deeply. He had not spoken for a long time, and she half feared to break the silence. Miles passed under the horses' hoofs, and yet he was silent Suddenly he looked at her with self-reproach. "Pardon me, Miss Fletcher, but you certainly must be getting tired." He hastily leaped from his horse, throwing the reins over the beautiful creature's head. Eagle shook himself as if glad to be relieved of his burden. West came to Bess' side and as- sisted her to dismount. He had anticipated that her knees would not sustain her weight, and clasped her in his arms to keep her from falling. Immediately the horses, with reins trailing on the ground, began munching the soft green grass, slowly picking here and there. "Ouch!" said Bess, as her feet touched the earth. "How funny one's knees feel after riding so far," and she awkwardly began to move for- ward. As her soft hair brushed his face when she dismounted West could scarcely refrain from placing his hand upon the fluffy and wind-tossed tresses. Taking off his mackinaw, he spread it on the ground, telling her to be seated for a moment, and strode to the feeding horses. Pres- ently he returned, and Bess, having risen, looked up at him with a bright smile. "Mr. West, why do the horses walk like craw- fish?" He smiled at her comparison, and told her, 36 HENRY WEST'S IDEAL to avoid stepping on the reins and the attendant jerk to their mouths. "Do you think I will soon be toughened like you?" she asked. "Oh, yes," West replied. "You soon will be able to ride half a day, or even more, without becoming much fatigued. At first you must go easy and not ride too long at a stretch." She stood gazing about her at the vast herds of cattle and horses grazing all about the valley and the gentle slopes. In front she could see the heavily willowed banks of a stream, and se- cretly rejoiced, for she was longing for a drink. West was looking behind him over the road they had just come. "Well, the stage is not so slow today. Old Charley must be pounding them on the back." CHAPTER IV THE HESITATING LARIAT Bess could discern in the distance the stage with its little, trailing cloud of dust. "Please let us mount again. I'm quite rested, and want to reach the stream before the stage arrives." "You are thirsty, Miss Fletcher?" he asked, solicitously, hastening to assist her to remount. The horses started eagerly forward, the scent of fresh water in their nostrils. "We are nearly half-way home. The bridge yonder is about half the distance," said West. Suddenly he was so alarmed by a shrill cry from the girl that he brought the surprised Eagle almost to his haunches with a sudden stop. "Look!" she cried, pointing to the right of her. Instantly West turned his horse. "My God !" he cried, starting Eagle across the rolling land. She saw a horse throw his rider, and in a moment more drag him by the foot, which in some way had become fastened in the stirrup. Bess tried in vain to restrain Mauchacho, who insisted upon following his companion. Scarcely a half mile intervened, and Bess could see Eagle speeding like a veritable bird. She saw West swinging his lariat about his head with measured movements. Suddenly he hesitated, holding his hand for the instant still then with 38 THE HESITATING LARIAT one more vigorous swing the rope shot out, hiss- ing and uncoiling like a huge snake, and in the instant it caught the fleeing horse firmly by both front feet and threw him with a crash to the ground. At the same moment Eagle braced himself like a rock, and West secured the lariat about the pommel of the saddle. So swiftly had it all happened that Bess cried out in amazement and wonder. West reached the frightened horse, now struggling wildly, in time to save the man from being kicked to death. The foot had been wrenched from the stirrup, and the man lay silent and motionless upon the ground. When Bess reached the spot she sprang from her horse and hastened forward to be of assist- ance. "I cannot see how anyone who knows a horse could possibly have such an accident," West was saying, as if to himself. "The horse surely could not have seen a 'rattler,' as it is too early for them ; and, besides, I have never seen one down on this flat. Looks to me like confounded care- lessness !" "Oh, is he hurt?" she inquired, but West had mounted Mauchacho and was speeding to the stream. Bess lifted the bruised and bleeding head into her lap. As she carefully wiped the dirt from the eyes and face she discovered to her surprise that it was the same Mr. Davis whom she had only met the evening before on the train at Selish. 39 THE BRAND "See look!" she exclaimed excitedly, as West returned, his hat dripping with the water it contained. "It is Mr. Davis !" Henry West nearly spilled the precious liquid. His eyes flashed with hatred, and his teeth clenched so hard that she could scarcely hear his words. "You know that that devil!" Bess was so confounded at the look of enmity and hate that she turned pale with fear. The next moment, with trembling hands, she was helping Henry West to resuscitate the un- conscious man. Cool, dripping handkerchiefs bathed his brow and temples. Upon examining the foot which had caused so much mischief, West saw that it was swelling rapidly, and soon dexterous fingers had unfastened the laces and were tenderly removing the shoe. All the pas- sion was gone from his face, leaving it pale and anxious. Again he hastened to the stream, quickly returning with the hat filled with water. How they worked, these two! Perspiration streamed from their faces as they chafed his arms and hands and bathed the bruised and swol- len ankle. Once they caught a fleeting twitch of the eyelids, and, encouraged by the knowledge that there was still life, they renewed all their efforts. Suddenly West put his hand upon the man's breast, Bess thought to feel his heart beats, but instantly she understood as he drew a flask from the inside of the coat. West forced the lips apart 40 THE HESITATING LARIAT and succeeded in pouring some of the brandy into Davis' mouth. The effect was almost in- stantaneous. The eyelids fluttered and a groan of torture escaped the lips. Again he relapsed into unconsciousness, but for only a few minutes, for soon he opened his eyes and looked into the girPs face. Then a spasm of pain contracted his face frightfully, and even West turned aside that he might not see. They gave him more of the brandy, which seemed to strengthen the man, and also made the suffering, for the moment at least, less acute. Not a word had they spoken since that first moment. West now watched for the stage, standing near Mauchacho, first releasing the horse which he had thrown. With trailing reins the animal now stood quietly beside Eagle, who seemed to be looking at him with "horse" contempt. Just then the stage came in sight from be- hind a rise, and West swung upon Mauchacho, hastening to hail it. Soon Bess could see the men hurrying to where she sat with her again unconscious burden. With a strong blanket for a stretcher, four of them carefully placed the wounded man upon it, and bore him to the stage. James brought Eagle and Davis' horse, while Bess walked behind, leading Mauchacho. Care- fully they placed Davis in the stage. James in- sisted that his sister continue her journey in the vehicle while he rode with West. They stopped at the bridge to water the horses, and then pro- ceeded slowly on their way. 41 THE BRAND Bess was doing everything in her power to alleviate the pain of the man, whose head now rested against her shoulder. She did not move, and scarcely dared to breathe, lest she should disturb him. She could feel the damp, cold drops of perspiration standing out like beads on the white forehead and the bruised cheek. So great was her sympathy that she, too, seemed to be in the torture of pain. The other occupants of the stage watched her with interest and appre- ciation. West rode near to tell her that James and he would hasten on and have a more comfortable conveyance at Poison by which to bring Mr. Da- vis to the HW Ranch. 42 CHAPTER V THE MOTLEY SPECTATORS AT POLSON It was nearly one o'clock when the stage reached Poison, at the foot of the Lake. As it drove up in front of the hotel Bess saw that James and Henry West had already arrived. A curious and anxious crowd were gathered in the road and on the porch, each one striving to get a look at the Indian Agent, of whose accident they had already heard. It was a motley crowd; here and there were blanketed Indians with their squaws and papooses and numerous mangy curs ; in groups were standing the lighter colored half-breeds, some in white men's clothing, others with blankets carelessly folded about them. Some were fastidious in their beaded leggings and wide-brimmed hats, their gay-colored 'kerchiefs and shirts, while others were scarcely able to hide their copper-colored bodies with their scanty possessions, so unfortunate had they been in their last gambling game. Several white men and women could also be seen intermingling with the Indians or standing aloof beside the buildings. They were evidently passengers en route across the reservation, or waiting to go up the Flathead Lake and river to Kalispell. The Klondyke had been steamed up and ready to leave for more than an hour. The passengers 43 THE BRAND hurried to get aboard, the whistle blew and the boat started slowly to steam out into the Lake. The while, Henry West, assisted by a number of the spectators, was making Mr. Davis as com- fortable as he could with numerous blankets on a buckboard. The men watched him with in- credulity, for they all knew the animosity which existed between these two men. How any man could show such consideration and feeling for another who was his mortal enemy they could not understand! Neither did they know the cause of the hatred. Some said that Henry West knew of some 'crooked work' Davis had been car- rying on, yet he could not say a word while he lived on the reserve and was under the authority of the Indian Agent. But this was conjecture. No one but Henry West and his God knew the circumstances which made him hate the man with all the powers of his soul. West had asked Mrs. White, the post trader's wife, if she would kindly take care of Miss Fletcher until he should be able to return for her. Bess, utterly exhausted, permitted herself to be led into the dark, cool sitting-room of the hotel. Tenderly Mrs. White unfastened her jacket, removed her fluffy tarn and brushed back the soft brown hair. "You poor dear," said Mrs. White sympathetically. Bess threw her aching arms about the little woman's neck and wept her tired heart out. Now that it was all over and she could relax, nature 44 THE MOTLEY SPECTATORS opened the floodgates of pent-up feeling and heal- ing tears flowed. Mrs. White, seeing that the girl was physi- cally exhausted, as well as under a great mental strain, led her over to the couch. She knew bet- ter than to speak to her now, and held her ten- derly in her arms till at last only little sobs escaped the girl, and soon her head sank low upon the broad shoulders in sleep. Quietly Mrs. White laid her upon the couch, placed a cover over her, and left her to sleep. The woman came into the room every few minutes to see if she were still asleep, and when at sundown Henry West returned with the buckboard for her, Bess was still sleeping. "Do not waken her, Mrs. White," he said, gently. "I will wait until she has had her sleep out." Then he went into another room, where he gave the little woman all the details of the Davis accident. His praise of Bess and the assistance which she gave was great indeed, and the heart of Mrs. White went out to the sleeping stranger, whose first experience of the Western life had been such a trying one. They were to become the closest of friends, and Mrs. White already felt an indescribable affinity for the girl. 45 CHAPTER VI HW RANCH The drive through the cool of the early even- ing to the ranch, which lay only three miles from the trading post, fully awakened and refreshed Bess. She was longing to ask the reticent man by her side a hundred questions regarding the injured one, but she refrained, intuitively feel- ing that she would be touching a heart-wound. The slight hesitancy of the lariat, the sudden out- burst of passion, revealed to her woman's instinct the secret hatred of Henry West, which all his sympathy and tenderness afterward could not hide. At last he spoke : "Mother will not have din- ner until we return. You must be nearly fam- ished, for Mrs. White told me that you had fallen asleep before she could offer you any refresh- ment. I cannot tell you how sorry I am that you should have experienced such an ordeal. Mr. Da the Agent," he said, with a marked effort at composure, "has been made comfortable, and when I left the ranch to come after you, mother said he had fallen asleep. My mother, years ago, had a thorough course of training in professional nursing, and the knowledge has been invaluable to her. The doctors at the agen- cy or at the mission are so far away that in 46 HW RANCH emergency cases she is always sought. I sent one of the men after a physician, but he can do no more than mother has already done." "There is my home, Miss Fletcher," he con- tinued, as they came in sight of the ranch. "How I love it! I hope you may be contented and happy as long as it is to be your home and James'." True hospitality sounded in his deep voice and shone from his now grave yet friendly eyes. "Oh! Thank you, Mr. West. Anyone who could not find both happiness and contentment amid all this beauty would be very hard to please. It will be the first real home I have ever known nearly all my life has been spent at school. Dear me! I expect you think I should have unlimited knowledge," she added lightly. She gazed with interest about her. There stood the large, square, white house, with its wide porches and many windows, within a stone's throw of the deep, blue water of Flat- head Lake. Up the hill a short distance from the house in a clump of willows was a magnifi- cent spring, whose cool, crystal water was made to flow down to the house and into the corral. Great barns, hay sheds and granaries were back of the house, and comfortable poultry houses and roomy ice-houses were also to be seen. Even a blacksmith shop with its glowing fire caught Bess' interested gaze, and she wondered at the completeness of the ranch and marveled at the brains that could manage such a large and var- 47 THE BRAND led establishment. Quite near the house stood a teepee, and Bess could not repress a smile as Henry West told her what it was and that the old Indian and his wife who assisted his mother could not be induced to sleep indoors, so pitched their teepee in the yard for their greater comfort. As West drove up to the house the door opened, and Bess was soon clasped in the arms of his mother. Happily he watched her as she welcomed the sister of his dearest and best friend. "Mrs. West," said the stranger, "I cannot tell you how happy I am to know you. James has told me so many dear, sweet things of you that somehow it feels as if you were my own mother, and I do need a mother so," added the girl, with eyes that could not hold back the tears. "God bless you, my dear," she heard a gentle voice saying. "I, too, need a daughter to fill the place made vacant nearly a year ago." She lift- ed the girl's face tenderly with both her hands, and looking into the clear eyes told her how much she seemed like the daughter who had been lost. "Helen was fair," she explained. "Her hair was even lighter than yours, dear ; she was quite as tall and about your age. She was like her Scotch father, while Henry looks like me." Bess gently kissed the tear-stained cheek of the tender mother, and pressed her lips against the soft, white hair, as together they went into the house. How cozy everything seemed! The 48 HW RANCH cheerful fire in the grate, the comfortable chairs and couches, the beautiful pictures and rugs, gave everything a 'homey' look. Bess was sur- prised to find such evidences of refinement, wealth and comfort here away out in Montana and on an Indian Reservation! Her surprises were not to end here, however, for she would soon discover that many, many of the families scattered all over this vast reservation were equally as comfortable and thrifty. Mrs. West led the way to Bess 7 room, and telling her that dinner would be ready in a half hour, left her. Little ejaculations of happy surprises escaped the girl as she glanced about the room. Every- thing was creamy white and pale blue. The large brass bed was draped with soft blue and white, the furniture was white, and several com- fortable willow rockers invited to rest. In one corner was a wide couch with numerous pretty cushions. A few choice pictures adorned the walls. Surely, the one who displayed so much taste in fitting up this dainty room must have been used to refinement! It was so different from what she had expected to find. James had told her of it all, and yet she was surprised. She surmised this had been Helen's room. As she hurried about, getting on her fresh, clean clothes, she continued her appraisal of her room. "I love you already," she kept saying to herself. During dinner not a word had been said con- 49 THE BRAND cerning the patient, and Bess was interested in hearing James and Henry discussing the affairs of the ranch how the wheat was growing, what a wonderful crop of hay was promised, the oats, too, never stood so well before at this time of year; the spring calves were all getting along fine ; up to date there had been, as nearly as could be counted, about ninety colts. Several times the girl became so engrossed in these new, strange topics that she forgot her meal, and Mrs. West could scarcely refrain a smile at her wide, wondering eyes. As Bess' hostess arose from the table she said : "You must all be worn out with your ex- perience of today, and I advise early hours." Henry came over to his mother's side, and kissing her gently on the brow, told her that he would spend the night looking after Mr. Davis. But she said : "No, dear, you go to bed and rest, and when I need you I will call you." Fin- ally she persuaded him to consent to retire, af- ter he and James had had their smoke. Bess' heart went out to this great, dark man, as she saw his gentleness. She thought that any man who so reverenced his mother must be worthy of greatest confidence and trust. "I'll say good-night now," she said, for she was glad to get some rest. Her face and neck were smarting from the unusual exposure to the sun and wind, and she was trying to find some- thing with which to alleviate the burning when Mrs. West tapped gently at her door. 50 HW RANCH "Are you asleep, dear?" Bess quickly opened the door for her to enter. "Mr. Davis is sleeping again, so I came to see what help I might be to our 'little stranger,' " she said gently, and noticing that the girl was suffer- ing with the sun-burned tender face, hastened to bring something to soothe her. " Let me put this on, dearie. Why, you are dreadfully burned !" "I should have known better than to ride so far with only that tam-o'-shanter on my head," said Bess. "You should have a light, soft sombrero, and then you will be a regular 'cowboy/ and we'll try to find a gun and spurs, too," laughed Mrs. West, as she gently bathed the flaming cheeks and brow. W T hen she had been tucked snugly in her bed, Mrs. West sat by her side, telling in her modu- lated voice of her own strange experiences in the West: of her days in school and college; of her teaching and her music; of her home life and her children; opening little secret chambers in her soul to the girl, who was already filling her heart. Bess listened in wonderment at all that was told so modestly, and then she readily under- stood the source and cause of the taste and re- finement which she had already observed. On they chatted, like two school chums who had not seen each other for years, until Mrs. West noticed the tired eyelids trying so hard to stay open, and kissed Bess gently on the brow. The girl aroused herself and said : "Please, lit- 51 THE BRAND tie mother, wait until I pray. Put your arms around me tight and let me feel what it means to have a mother." Together they mingled their supplications to the Great Common Father, and in the sight of God they were equal though one pair of eyelids closed on cheeks fair as a lily and tears wet the face of one so dark. CHAPTER VII "I WOULD HAVE DONE MORE FOR AN INJUN" With the twitter of birds outside and glorious sunshine streaming through the opened window, Bess awoke early, feeling that the refreshing sleep had completely restored her energy and light-heartedness. She breathed deeply of the fresh, cold air, feeling as if she could fly with the birds. The thought of helping with breakfast prompted her to hasten, and soon she found the kitchen. An Indian woman was busily engaged getting the meal, as Bess entered, and she in- quired of the woman where Mrs. West was. A slight motion of the hand upward was the only reply, and the woman silently moved out of the room. Bess did not understand, and left the house for out-of-doors. At a little distance stood Hen- ry West. Bess ran toward him with a cheerful "Good morning! Are you quite rested, Mr. West?" "Oh, yes, indeed ! It takes more than a day like yesterday to tire me. But may I ask how you are feeling this morning? You look well and happy, surely." "I am, and completely rested, too; but my face still smarts," she replied, cautiously touch- ing the pretty cheeks. 53 THE BRAND "You will suffer a good deal from the sun and wind for a while, then they won't have any ill effects at all." "Not after I get thoroughly toughened, you mean," she said with a merry twinkle in her eye. "Please, have we time to walk up there to the spring, before breakfast, Mr. West?" "Yes, I think so," he replied, and led her to the willows bending gently over, as if to hide their treasure. Here was an immense trough hewn from a log, where the clear, cold water flowed through it, in a great stream. Bess stooped to drink; when she lifted her dripping face, Henry West could not suppress a laugh at the picture she made. Even her stray locks had had a bath, and her brown eyes were alight like a water nymph's. His heart swelled with increasing love for this beautiful girl, and with the love grew a most bitter anguish as he realized more and more how hopeless it all must be. He fought hard to stifle his tender passion, and fully aware of the pain he must bear to be so near her day after day, to see her so uncon- sciously happy, to hear her merry laugh and soft, tender voice. He could at least seek solace away across the hills, or comfort in the company of his faithful Eagle, whose confiding ear had al- ready heard many of his master's heartaches. His mother summoned them from the house, and Bess, with a girlish challenge that she would reach there first, started to run swiftly down the gentle slope towards the house. Mrs. 54 "MORE FOR AN INJUN' West caught the rosy, merry laughing girl in her arms as she said, "I am glad to see you feeling so well and rested this morning, dear." "Oh, I feel fine," Bess replied. "I want to cry out to shout," she added, as she gave the older woman so vigorous a hug that it made her gasp for breath. "Great guns! Bess, you better vent some of that superfluous squeeze on some of the rest of us. See! Mrs. West is still struggling to breathe," said James, as he placed Bess in her chair at the breakfast table. "Oh, I'm so sorry, little Mother ! Did I really hurt you? But I just had to squeeze someone or something; so after this when any of you see me coming with fire in my eye, I give you all fair warning.' 7 They laughed at her strenuosity and good spirits and the coffee was served. "Bess, don't impress those people that you came from the Bowery," said her brother, and all through breakfast she tried to recall what she had said or done that should suggest such a thought to James. Breakfast was nearly over when Mrs. West told Henry to go up to the sick man's room, as Mr. Davis had requested to see him. Henry shot a troubled glance at his mother and said, "I would much rather not go, mother." "I cannot understand, Henry, why you have taken such a dislike to Mr. Davis; he has always treated us with courtesy and many times has shown us marked consideration. Surely you 55 THE BRAND cannot have forgotten how attentive he always was to Helen " "Hush, Mother! I will go to him at once. No, I have not forgotten anything, and pray you may never understand," he added in a whis- per. He arose abruptly from his chair and quitted the room before he had finished speak- ing, so the last words reached the ears of Bess alone. She watched the man, and thought of his words the day before when she told him that she knew Mr. Davis. As he had not asked how nor where she had known him, she thought perhaps James had explained. Henry West knocked softly at the door of Mr. Davis' room and entered at a faint "come in." He could not help feeling a twinge of pity as he saw the pallid brow and hands of the helpless man, and yet his very presence filled him with ever increasing hatred and contempt. He put his hand to his throat as if his collar were chok- ing him, as he said in a husky voice : "You sent for me, Mr. Davis. Of what service can I be to you?" He could scarcely catch the faint words that came from the injured man's lips, and going near- er, bent over that he might hear what Davis was saying. "Will you send one of my policemen here, West? There are several important matters which I must see about today." The Indian agent spoke with effort. 56 'MORE FOR AN INJUN" "I fear you are not strong enough to see anyone yet," Henry suggested kindly. The man glared at him and hotly said, "Oh, hell ! Yes, I am ! All that hurts is my ankle, and I don't have to talk with that." With an abrupt, "Very well, sir," West moved towards the door. "Say, West," said Davis, raising his voice; "I know you didn't give me that help yesterday because you love me," with a slight sneer, "but I thank you just the same." West suddenly wheeled and stood for a mo- ment, rigid with clenched hands, looking at the man. "No, Dave Davis," he said in his low, firm voice, "I did not save your neck because I even respect you. I would have done as much, or even more, for any old Injun." Bess met him as he went through the living- room, but he did not look at her as he passed out doors. She wondered what could be the reason for his looking so sullen as he passed, and knew that it must be the man upstairs. "Come here a moment, dear," called Mrs. West to her ; "I want you to take some breakfast up to Mr. Davis. One of my women is sitting there." Bess dreaded meeting him, yet she could not refuse to go. She carried the dainty and appe- tizing food into his room, and entered so softly that the man did not move. She thought he had fallen asleep, when a slight groan told her she was mistaken. 57 THE BRAND "Here is your breakfast, Mr. Davis," she said cheerily. "Oh, it is you, Miss Fletcher! I had begun to wonder why you did not come to see your patient." "I do hope you are better this morning, and that you may soon be strong again," she said, beginning to help him with his meal. "I am afraid this confounded ankle won't be in any hurry getting well," he replied bitterly, "and I shall be obliged to force my unwelcome presence here for too long." "Please don't say that, Mr. Davis; I am sure you are perfectly welcome here. Mrs. West is only too glad to do all she can to alleviate your pain," reassured Bess hastily. "Yes, I understand," he replied, as he sipped his coffee, "but Henry West has some sort of a grudge against me. Guess he thinks that at one time I cared for his sister." Bess noticed a swift, sneering smile flit across his lips. He continued : "One never knows what to expect from these Indians." "S sh," warned Bess, glancing at the serv- ant. She did not like what he was saying nor the tone of his voice, and as soon as he had fin- ished his breakfast she hurriedly left him. Could the cause of all of Henry's hatred be the sister whom he had loved so tenderly, she wondered. 58 CHAPTER VIII BESS LEARNS THE REAL CAUSE OF THE ACCIDENT The girl had begun to tidy up the living- room and the pretty library, with its shelves of choice books, when Mrs. West came in to remon- strate. "There are plenty of hands to do those tasks, Miss Bess," she said, as she held the girl's hands in her own. "You just go out and enjoy yourself, dear. It is such a pretty day that it is a pity to stay in-doors." "Oh, please let me help you, Mrs. West," pleaded Bess, "for I do enjoy working ; and then, too, with your increased family you will be over- taxed." The girl spoke with such earnestness that Mrs. West relented, thinking perhaps Bess would feel more at home if she assumed some little responsibilities. "You see," Bess explained, "my father insisted upon the nuns at the convent teaching me all kinds of housework and serving, and it has been a great source of comfort to me to feel that I need not be dependent upon anyone to do these tasks for me." Mrs. West's eyes followed the girl as she con- tinued her task quietly and quickly, all the while busily talking. "You'll be surprised, little Mother, when I tell you that I have made nearly all of my own clothes. You'll let me help you sew, too, won't 59 THE BRAND you? It must be a great problem for you to find anyone here, is it not?" The deft fingers were putting little touches here and there, now arranging a vase of flowers or moving a picture, and Mrs. West noted with pleasure how soon the room bore evidence of her artistic taste. As the days succeeded each other and the girl grew more and more into the home life of the ranch, she became a help and consolation to Mrs. West, in a thousand different ways. She re- lieved her of many little duties and assumed so willingly and competently the many cares that ere long Mrs. West began wondering how she had ever been able to get along without Bess, or how she had ever had the time or strength to look after the house alone. She now found time to rest and to read. She even took up her practice again, and many were the delightful hours which she and Bess spent together with their music. The lonely place in her heart was being filled by the presence of this sweet, lovable girl, and her tender, motherly love went out to Bess, as if the girl were indeed her own daughter. The visitor was considerate of every one. She was always seeing some kind thing to do or gentle word to say, and every one, including the old Indians, who frequently came to the ranch, was treated with respect and given a kindly smile. Before the autumn had come her figure, riding on Mauchacho, sometimes with James or Henry West, or often alone, grew so familiar that 60 THE REAL CAUSE OF THE ACCIDENT the Indians named her "Bright Eyes," because of the happy face and beautiful eyes. Those first few weeks at the ranch were full of pleasure and delight for Bess. She took long rides of exploration over the vast acres, and each time, upon her return to the house, told of the wonderful things which she had discov- ered. "There is the dearest spot up along the Lake shore/' she told Mrs. West one afternoon as she and Mauchacho came up to the porch, re- turning from one of their pleasant rides. "It is up on a little knoll, with beautiful pine trees that looked as if they had been freshly scrubbed this very day; and such very comfortable rocks and logs lying about. I am going to take my crayons and sketch there some day. Such a magnificent view of the vast blue lake, the moun- tains all around and Wild Horse Island in the distance." Then,, as if she felt half guilty for leaving, she inquired how Mr. Davis seemed. "Keally, I should not have left you to take care of him so long alone. I'll be in the house in a moment, little Mother, and relieve you." As none of the men were about Bess un- saddled her horse and turned him loose to bury his nose in the soft, green grass of the pasture. She stood a moment watching Mauchacho as he sniffed to find a good place to roll. "Over Mau- chacho, over again, two hundred! three hundred dollars; good, but we won't sell you for a thou- 61 THE BRAND sand, will we, you beauty?" And with her hat and gloves she ran into the house and hurriedly dressed to take charge of the sick man. Davis had proved a quiet patient during his confinement and was now sitting up most of the day and soon would be able to be removed to his quarters at the agency. In his secret heart he knew that he was in no hurry to go; perhaps, had he made an effort, he could have gone some days ago. But he could not tear himself away from the girl who had helped to alleviate his suffering, and whose sweet voice had charmed him when she read during the long, tedious hours, and thrilled him while she sang, he lying quietly and watching her face, songs that were simple and sweet and full of deepest melody. But she always appeared abstracted ; her brown eyes did not see the things about her, but gazed upon unknown visions which only her heart saw. Sometimes the brightest smiles played upon her lips and lighted up her face with joy; again, tear-drops hung on her long lashes, and fell un- heeded upon her hands. If he could only divine the thoughts which caused her emotion! He could not, but was en- tranced and deeply moved. Was he growing to love this girl, he asked himself a dozen times a day. No, surely he was not. But, even if he were, did he dare? Cbuld he, Dave Davis, make this beautiful, unsuspecting and pure child love him? Always, he would banish the thought, for 62 THE REAL CAUSE OF THE ACCIDENT he still possessed a conscience, and could not think of her in this relation without a twinge. Today as she came into the sick-room, all rosy and fresh after her ride, he looked at her with admiration. She had never looked half so charming to him before; the simple white dress made her girlish, and the bunch of yellow blos- soms thrust into the loose knot of brown hair, just behind her ear, gave her a saucy air. She was brushing the hair from her brow as she ap- proached the chair in which he was sitting. "I envy you your ride and the fresh air, Miss Fletcher. It seems ages since I felt my horse under me. I never shall forgive him for stepping in a hole that day. Guess if I had not been so intent watching the girl in the distance," he spoke as to himself, "trying to assure myself it was Miss Fletcher, he would not have thrown me." "Oh, Mr. Davis! I hope I was not even the unconscious cause of your accident," Bess re- plied anxiously. "Are girls such a rare sight on the reservation that even horses run away when they see them?" she added, half jokingly. "Well girls like you are, yes," he replied, meaningly, but the girl would not understand. "When I am well and able to ride, will you let me show you some of the interesting places on the reserve? We'll visit the Mission, with its school of Indians, and the church." "Oh, I should be happy to go. Thank you, Mr. Davis; but I fear I cannot wait, for Henry 63 THE BRAND and James have planned to go with me to the Mission next Sunday, and we expect to be there for mass. I can scarcely wait, and know the trip will be full of interest." "Henry West seems to take quite a good deal of your time," he said pettishly, and Bess wrinkled her brow, amused at his displeasure. "Let me finish the book," suggested Bess, but the man said he was tired and would prefer to rest. She regretted his petulant mood, and quietly left the room. CHAPTER IX "HELEN" AT ST. IGNATIUS MISSION Oh! the rarity of that early June morning when a trio of happy beings mounted their eager horses. The dawn was still in the east, where roseate clouds hung soft and low on the crests of the mountains. In the shadows the blueness of the fleeing night still lingered. The air was unusually soft for the early hour and birds twit- tered to arouse their tardy nest-mates. The tamaracks were now the softest, tender- est green, and in the dawning light seemed like soft billows of sea foam which had been flung through the miles of space and caught in the out- stretched arms of the tall monarchs of the hills. It was only a little after five o'clock, but the long ride of twenty-five miles to St. Ignatius Mission demanded an early start, so that the horses might be well rested before returning to HW ranch. Henry West was cramming into the pockets of his mackinaw what later proved to be some appetizing sandwiches; for he knew Fletcher's returning health and vigor caused insatiable de- mand for "grub." Mrs. West had thoughtfully prepared the lunch as they were hurrying to get started. Now she stood in the open doorway, smiling good-byes to her family. 65 THE BRAND Bess looked beautifully charming in her well- fitted jacket and divided skirt of reseda green. A filmy white veil was tied over her sombrero and floated over her shoulder in long loops like a fleecy cloud nestling against her soft, brown tresses. At her throat showed the soft whiteness of her shirt waist, for, "was it not Sunday, and were they not going to church, and ought they not to be dressed in their best?" she argued when James asked why she had not worn her corduroy suit for the long, dusty ride. Bess wished se- cretly that she, too might wear the leathern "chapps" like the boys; as they seemed so much more comfortable than a lot of useless cloth about one. She vowed inwardly that some day, when no one was looking, she would try the "chapps," and if they proved satisfactory why should she not wear them too? The horses made good time at a steady gait, and all were so preoccupied that only a few de- sultory remarks were exchanged. As the miles grew in number the dawn became brighter and brighter, till now old Sol shot forth his stream- ing gold and a new and glorious day began. "This will be a very warm day," remarked Henry West, after a deliberate survey of the sky. "It feels like a weather-breeder and I think we'll have a heavy rain by night." He unfast- ened his mackinaw, and the breeze blew out his soft, white, silk shirt in little fat puffs. They passed groups of fine, sleek cattle and horses, the HW brand being the most conspicu- 66 'HELEN* cms among them. Suddenly Henry West gave Eagle a swift turn on the bridle and sped across the grass till he came upon some strange calves. From the distance intervening Bess and James watched him wonderingly and with interest. When he returned to them his face was lowering. James was about to ask what was wrong, but thought if it were anything of interest to him that Henry would tell him. On and on they rode, now in a swift gallop, for the road was smooth and hard, and by this time the horses had their "second wind." Bess' inquisitiveness got the better of her, and she cried : "For pity's sake, Henry, do tell me what is wrong! Can't you see I'm just burst- ing to know?" And she gave her contumacious hair a vigorous thrust under her sombrero. West began slowly: "James, in your riding over the range, have you noticed among any of my cows a scrub, measly-looking red bull? Those calves, back there, show his ear-marks. Last year I told old Savaeau that if he did not kill that damned nuisance I would the first chance I got. And here this season's calves are again contaminated by scrub breeding." Bess had grown so accustomed to hearing discussions of all kinds concerning the cattle and horses that she was deeply interested, and now, before James had time to reply, she spoke : "Do you know that about three days ago when I was going over to Poison I came across several of your cows and a most terrible looking animal 67 THE BRAND with them! He had a big head like a buffalo, and a dreadful hump; the rest of him looked like well, like just cow. Is that the one you are looking for?" She was surprised and hurt at the look the boys gave each other, and then roars and peals of laughter rent the air. Bess' cheeks flamed up red and hot, and she gave Mauchacho a cut across the flanks which caused him to leap forward in surprise, and he sped like a streak down the winding road and out of sight behind a low hill. Tears sprang into the girl's eyes, not so much perhaps at the ex- changed glances and laughter, as at the thought that perhaps her unsolicited interest had been misconstrued. She now quietly checked Mau- chacho and hastily pulled off her jacket. She brushed her wet cheeks with her sleeve in her haste to appear nonchalent to the approaching horsemen, whom she could hear hastening after her. To her dismay, she discovered that her immaculate sleeve was now all grimy and dust- streaked and knew that her face too must be streaked with dirt. Luckily she had just reached a stream of clear, cold water, and she slipped off her horse and was already bathing her face when Henry West reached her. He stood silently behind her, watching the lithe, graceful girl, as she bent down to kiss the stream. She glanced over her shoulder, her face dripping with the cool water, her hair wet and falling over her eyes. "I did not cry so there you need not look 68 'HELEN' so sorry ," she said, with half pouting lips that could no longer resist the pulsates of her happy nature, and involuntarily she burst into a merry laugh. "I am really sorry to have been so rude as to laugh at your remarks, Miss Fletcher/' West was saying, and again he tried in vain to re- strain himself. "What's up, Sister; fall in the creek?" "No, I was just trying to drown my sorrow when this gentleman interfered and I took a drink instead," Bess replied facetiously, and when they again resumed their journey each was light-hearted once more. "Please tell me, James, what was the thing I tried to describe, will you?" Bess asked, as she and James had fallen behind Eagle for a little way. "Why, that was a cattelo, which is part buffalo and part cow. They are rather dreadful looking creatures, to be sure, and I can't see why West raises them, unless because the hides are valuable, and perhaps the meat has a rare flavor." It was now after eight o'clock and West said that they would soon come in sight of St. Ig- natius. A short distance ahead of them walked a hurrying priest. One hand tightly clasped a prayer-book, while the other tried in vain to lift the already begrimmed cassock out of the dust. The boys lifted their sombreros in saluta- tion, and to Bess' cheery "Good morning, THE BRAND Father," the priest gave her a smile and a "God bless you." At last they saw the beautiful grounds of the Mission, with its church spire and the roofs of the many buildings, interspersed with the trees, whose fresh, green foliage was invitingly cool. The sun had grown unusually warm for early morning and eagerly the girl reined her horse in the refreshing shadows of the trees. The bell suddenly pealed forth, and they hastened to dismount. West cared for the horses and James led Bess into the beautiful little church. The sight that met their eyes was strange to Eastern eyes. Indians knelt with their bright colored blankets wrapped closely about them. The candles fluttered on the altar profusely covered with early spring flowers. James sought the West's pew and led his sister there. As she sunk on her knees to pray the organ sounded and in marched the somberly-clad nuns, followed by the many Indian children who were attending school. The entire service passed like a dream to Bess; and she was often dis- tracted watching the children at their prayers, listening to their sweet, untrained voices in the choir, or analyzing some Indian, stoically mov- ing his lips in prayer. "Mea culpa, mea, culpa " murmured Bess, half audibly, as she heard others striking their breasts; and she half turned to see if Henry West had yet come into the seat beside them. He was not there, nor did he come. "He is perhaps 70 'HELEN* in the rear," thought Bess. It was not long till they knelt for the blessing, and soon all were filing out of the church. Bess left James at the door, saying she wished to wander through the gardens. What a profusion of blooming shrubs! The air was sweet with the fruit blossoms, and all along the paths were wonderfully fragrant pansies, violets, and other early flowers. Near the church was the cemetery with its numerous white-painted crosses. As Bess looked through the enclosure she was attracted by an imposing monument, and, curious to learn what distin- guished person had found his last resting place here, she entered God's Acre. As she neared the grave she saw Henry West kneeling in the shadow of the monument, his face buried in his arm as he leaned against the stone. Bess sud- denly halted. Never in her life had she beheld such despair. Either he had heard her approach or intuitively felt she was near, for without lift- ing his head he stretched forth a hand to her. She could not resist the appeal. She grasped his hard and swarthy hand, and unconsciously clasped it to her breast. In a moment a face, pale and drawn, was raised to meet her sympathetic gaze. He tried to speak, but could utter no word. Releasing his hand he pointed slowly to the tiny cross at his feet. Bess dropped to her knees and read the word HELEN. That was all. That was enough. What 71 THE BRAND could cold, hard words tell of her who was sleep- ing there? "Helen/' the world might read, and perhaps give a sigh. "Helen," the man now read, and his heart yearned for his dear, lost sister and for the love that had been torn from him. What idle print could show the grief and misery that had broken that young heart? "Helen" was all Bess saw, and yet intuitively she read pages of love, sacrifice, heartaches, hope, pain and glory. She arose, and impulsively plac- ing both her hands against the dark man's face, she said in a whisper of sympathy, "Henry Henry ! Why cannot I be your sister? Let me fill her place in your heart ! Let me take up the broken thread and finish the weaving! Can I? May I?" My God ! What was she saying ! What had he heard? "Henry, Henry" rang in the man's ears, sweeter than any music. She had spoken his name, now, today; and how he had longed to hear her lips frame that homely word. He re- caught the echo of her appeal. It was not love that prompted her then ; it was only pity. Were love and pity akin? When he could collect his thoughts sufficiently to reply he clasped both her hands in his own for a brief moment. Then he stepped back and flung up his head. With set jaws he said, in such a low voice that Bess leaned forward on the tiny marble cross to catch the words, "I could not go into the church I could not pray while hatred tore my heart in pieces I could not forget her her misery I stayed here 72 "HELEN* near her to tell her again she shall be aven Hastily collecting himself and smothering his passion, he continued, "Thank you, little girl- Bess, I may now say; thank you for your sym- pathy and your pity. I know you are sincere, but somehow somehow there is still a void here," as he clutched at his pounding heart. "Your words do not suffice they cannot, will not. No, only she Helen could be a sister." Had Bess not been so unsophisticated she would have understood the subtle meaning of his words. As it was, she only felt her unworthiness, and was sorry her impulsive nature had thrust itself forward. For a moment there was an awkward silence, which Henry West relieved : "Come, I will show you about the grounds and buildings. James is visiting with Father Damien, over there near the church," and he led the silent girl away. Presently they were viewing with interest all the beauties of the place. Here were fine, substantial, brick school buildings, one for the girls and another for the boys, where they were taught all useful and instructive arts. The broad fields were in a high state of cultivation, and the trees of the orchard gave promise of an abundant harvest, so laden were they with lin- gering blossoms and fast-forming fruit. This seemed to be the very choicest bit of the reserva- tion, where years and years ago came the Jesuit priests, and where, during all this time, they 73 THE BRAND had labored zealously for the temporal and spir- itual welfare of the Indian children. Seated in a wheel chair, in a sunny exposure of the garden, they came upon a black-robed nun with another nun standing near her. As Bess and Henry West approached the one turned to meet them. What a dear, young face was that which upturned to meet Bess' interested look. What an expression of human understanding lighted up the deep blue eyes, as the girl said to her, "Good morning, Sister; are you enjoying God's beautiful sunshine?" "Yes, dear; Sister Mary Joseph can scarcely be inveigled indoors now that the sun is becom- ing so fervent. Well! Well!" the nun inter- rupted, "if here isn't Henry West! See! Sister Mary Joseph, who has honored us with a visit today !" Henry West stepped forward holding his som- brero in his hands. "This is Miss Bess Fletcher, James' sister;" he said, "and Bess, this is Sister Mary Joseph, and Sister Agnes." Bess bent over the aged nun, who, with dif- ficulty, lifted her hand. But, although the face was lined and seamed by the hand of time and the hardships of frontier life, the smiles of wel- come and greeting were made of that kind of woof and warp which never show the ravages of age. Henry explained, "Sister Mary Joseph has been here ever since 1865, and has seen all the vicissitudes of St. Ignatius Mission." Bess longed to hear the dear old woman re- 74 'HELEN' late some of the wonderful experiences which she had seen and in which she herself had been an important factor, but the bell was calling for the second mass, and as Sister Agnes was just then relieved from her duty by another nun, she asked Bess to accompany her to the church and sing. Henry West had gone on and joined James at the door. At the offertory Bess sang Mascagni's Ave Maria, and as her soft, glorious voice arose and fell in beautiful tone waves, even Father Damien and the Indians held their breath for fear of los- ing a sound. When Bess had finished Sister Agnes kissed her cheek, and left the imprint of her own wet one. 75 CHAPTER X A WESTERN TRAGEDY "After all, we have not gained much by stay- ing at the Mission over night, for another storm is coming and we better hurry to some place of shelter or we shall all be drenched to the skin," remarked Henry West, as he casually glanced over his shoulder toward the Southwestern horizon, where an ominous looking rain-cloud was rapidly rising. As he had predicted the day before, a heavy rain began just as they were about to re-saddle the horses to return to HW ranch. The morning dawned soft and warm; fresh from the washed hillsides came the ozone ; the east was filled with fiery, red clouds, which warned them that the rain was not yet all spilled upon the thirsty earth. How green the stretch of grazing land looked ; how verdant the distant pines and firs, fresh from nature's bath! The dust in the wagon road was all gone, and now occasionally the horses splashed with delight through mud puddles. "Mauchacho, if you spatter my go-to-meeting riding togs you'll get your ears pulled," Bess said to her horse. She had not heard West's re- mark regarding the weather for she was in an abstracted mood. "Hold on a moment, boys," she cried after 76 A WESTERN TRAGEDY the two. They had given their horses rein, thinking she was aware of the coming storm, and were riding swiftly to where they might be kept dry, for a time at least. Just then Bess noticed the light becoming dimmed. Hastily glancing back she saw the hurrying rain and was greeted by a splash of heralding drops. "Oh, so that's the hurry ! Come, Mauchacho, it's up to you to keep me dry and save this green gown from making a blot on the already verdant landscape," she said whimsically, and the horse, as if he understood, in haste to overtake his flee- ing companions, sped like the bird he really was and reached the sheltering, overhanging rock before the others. As the trio dismounted each drew the reins over his horse's head, and so left them, where they stood as quietly as if they were tied. Quick- ly the saddles were taken off their steaming backs and placed under the shelter of the rocks. Bess and James were already safely out of the rain, and the girl was impatiently jumping up and down urging Henry West to "hurry for pity's sake" or else he would be drowned. As West crouched under the ledge he took off his broad hat and shook the rain from it, say- ing: "These things are nearly as good as an umbrella; aren't they, James?" "Come under here closer, Henry; you are not out of the rain yet," said Bess. She took hold of his arm and pulled him close to her. So they stood, the fresh, rosy, smiling girl, with wilful 77 TEE BRAND brown tresses over her face, clinging to the dark, stalwart man on one side and to her fair-skinned brother on the other. Silently they watched the rain, which fell in gusty sheets. The horses had shifted and stood dejectedly with their tails against the increasing on- slaughts. "Poor old baby Mauchacho," said Bess, ten- derly; "I wish there was room to crowd you in here, too." The horse replied with a knowing wriggle of his ear, as if to say he "wished so, too." "Here, here, James, cheer up," said the sister, giving him a vigorous shake. "Don't you know that behind the clouds is still the blue sky?" He was looking nearly as lowery as the rain-clouds, and even West came from his Reverie, asking what was the trouble. "You see," said James, "this will delay us nearly two days in rounding up the beef for that shipment, and I doubt if the men can have them at Selish in time." Young Fletcher had proved his mettle on the ranch. "Oh, well, Jim ! I'll help, and I think we can manage all O. K." answered Henry West, opti- mistically. "Here, Bess, sit down awhile," he added, quickly drawing off 7 his rnackinaw and spreading it on the bed of pine needles. The girl could offer no remonstrance, as he gently placed her on the coat. "Do you think I can be comfortable here 78 A WESTERN TRAGEDY while I know YOU will get cold? You'll surely be ill !" She started to rise, but as he placed her on the seat again he assured her that when he grew cold he would ask for the coat. So she sat with her hands clasped about her knees, and her chin buried against them; her soft, liquid eyes gazing longingly across the rain-dashed landscape. The men, too, grew silent, and the time dragged. Bess gave a sigh and made a tentative effort to rise, but a gentle, restraining hand on her shoulder told her that though the man at her side was silent, he was still solicitous. James, becoming weary of standing, seated himself with his back pressed tight against that of his sister. How the thoughts began chasing each other through the girl's brain ! Little incidents of her girlhood days, or perhaps some memory of happy companionship at school would cause her to smile. Then, again, a sigh at some memory came unconsciously from her lips; and once, as she recalled a humorous episode, a little ripple of laughter escaped her. "Enjoying yourself, Bess?" asked James, irri- tably, at her jocular outburst. "I wish this in- fernal rain would let up so we could get home some time today," he added. "It seems to be letting up some now," said West. "If you'll let me take the mackinaw, please, I'll go out and take a look over the hills and see how much longer we shall have to wait." When West had gone out into the rain, Bess 79 THE BRAND asked her brother what time of .day it was. "We've been here two infernal hours/' he said, "and it is nearly noon. I wish we had some lunch, for we'll all be mighty hungry before we reach the ranch." "Please, James, don't be cross. That won't drive the rain away, and it only makes us feel more uncomfortable. Ah! Here comes the weather man ! I can tell by the looks of his face that there is soon to be a rainbow!" cried the girl, joyfully, as West re-entered the shelter. "Yes, the clouds are lifting, and it will soon be safe to start. I fear you'll suffer from the mud, Miss Bess." "It will be a shame to spoil this green," she replied, "but I fear I must bear it for my stom- ach's sake. Since James mentioned being hun- gry I have developed such an alarming craving for something to eat that it seems as if I had not tasted food in days. Oh! I wish there were some place where we could get our dinner !" "There is," answered West; "over at Joe Nedreau's, about eight miles further on." Soon the rain ceased, and the men hurried with the saddles. They picked their way care- fully through the water-soaked sod till they reached the road, where the water was running like miniature rivers. At first Bess tried to guard her skirt- from the muddy onslaughts, but soon saw that her efforts were of no avail and urged her horse into a faster gait. The miles intervening between them and a 80 A WESTERN TRAGEDY prospective meal grew less and less. West, rid- ing ahead, scanned the grazing herds at either side in a desultory manner. Suddenly he brought Eagle to a stop, raised himself up in the stirrups, and, with his hand shading his eyes, gazed intently across the range. Quickly he turned. "Jim, over there near the stream is that scrub bull of Savaeau's! Get your rope ready and come with me ! You keep Mauchacho here," to the girl, who was now wide-eyed, and won- dered what was going to happen. With difficulty she restrained her horse, who was bent on following the fleeing companions. Bess released her feet from the stirrups and sprang quickly to the ground to hold the animal by the bit; and by patting and talking softly to him succeeded in quieting him. Over the green expanse sped the two horse- men. West bent low over his horse's neck, riding madly. A rise in the ground for a moment con- cealed them, when up they shot, like two huge birds. The herd had already seen the oncoming men, and instinctively felt that harm was ap- proaching. With a loud snort and his tail in the air, the leader galloped over the range, fol- lowed by all the other cattle. On came the horses, now charged with excitement and knowl- edge of what was coming. James swerved to the right and artfully separated the bull from the rest of the herd. When the creature discovered he was divided from the other cattle, he turned 81 THE BRAND swiftly and unexpectedly, which nearly resulted in throwing James from his horse. West had ridden across from the herd, and with his rope already swinging in the air would have captured the animal then and there had he not hesitated when he saw that James was nearly unseated. The hesitancy gave the animal a fresh start and on he ran and ran, ever evading his pursuers. Snorting horses and relentless pursuers drove him from every shelter. Each man knew that the only way to capture him would be to tire him out. Bess was still standing at her horse's head, en- grossed in watching the distant chase. They were so far away that at times she could not distin- guish the men. At first she was excited, but as she saw the persistent pursuit and the vain at- tempt the animal made to reach a place of safety, she felt a wave of indignation surge over her and fill her with hot anger. Stamping her foot upon the ground, she cried out in vain : "Oh, you two horrid men! Leave that poor creature alone! What will you do when you do capture him? Murder him, of course ! James, have you lost all your sense, to follow that that Indian ! Yes, that is all you are now an Indian thirsting for the blood of your victim !" She burst into uncontrollable tears and hid her face against her horse's neck, to shut out the vision of the tragedy. Mauchacho bent his head and touched his mistress with his nose, as if try- ing to console her. Could he have spoken he 82 A WESTERN TRAGEDY would have explained that these things were a part of Western life; how it was impossible to tolerate low-bred stock; how this affair would seem all right when she became accustomed to the ways and laws of the range. So the girl stood, for ages it seemed to her, until she heard the approach of the horses. She did not lift her head when they came up, and West saw that she had been sorely affected by witnessing the capture. In a soft, low voice he said : "I'm very sorry, Miss Bess, that this circumstance occurred just as it did. It was unavoidable." The girl wheeled, with a storm of reproof upon her lips; but as she saw his seriousness, her parted lips closed slowly, and she left unsaid what she thought to say. She shuddered at the remnant of blood stains which she saw upon his hands and bespattered white silk shirt, and springing into the saddle turned her horse away with an unreasoning jerk. James saw her displeasure and only aggra- vated it by saying that she would grow accus- tomed to such things if she stayed in the cattle country. West followed Mauchacho in silence and only spoke when they reached the Nedreau ranch. He hurried forward to help the girl dismount, but she scorned his assistance and sprang lightly to the ground. "Did you did you kill him?" she demanded, pushing up her hair with an angry gesture. THE BRAND "Yes I had to," he replied, looking into her eyes with decisive determination. Just then an old Indian with his squaw came into view. West accosted them, and by numer- ous gestures and gutteral sounds explained that down under the willows, near the creek, they would find "heap muck-a-muck." Bess became deeply interested in the ambigu- ous and incoherent conversation ; saw their stoic faces assuming a happy and expectant expres- sion as their benefactor impressed upon them the fact that a supply of fresh beef was at their com- mand. Before West had fairly finished explain- ing to them, they had started their old, wobbly cayuses into their swiftest paces, to reach the treasure before some other hungry "Injun" had discovered the prize. When West again looked at Bess she could not resist a smile, and remarked that at least some one would enjoy the spoils. The man was greatly relieved at the restora- tion of her good humor, and when they joined James he informed them that in a few minutes all could have something to eat, even the horses. "I hope it won't be beef," suggested Bess. "I should think that you two would never dare to look a cow in the face again." While at dinner James told his companions a story which was positively authentic. He re- membered how, one day when he was about fif- teen years of age, several of the grades, where he was attending school, met for the purpose of giv- 84 A WESTERN TRAGEDY ing jointly a Longfellow programme. Every- thing went along smoothly and beautifully, and presently he heard his teacher announce that Miss Emma Lane would recite The Wreck of the Hesperus. He laughed now as he recalled how his heart thumped when the idol of his youthful dreams arose and walked nervously to the ros- trum. In his swift yet ardent gaze at the object of his adoration, all he remembered seeing was a beautiful pink bow tucked snugly under a soft, generous chin, and two hands, fingering frantic- ly at either side of her freshly laundered white dress. He did not dare look again for he felt himself too sympathetically nervous. Then he heard a tentative, quavering voice begin "It was the schooner," a pause, a gulp, and again, "It was the schooner,'' etc., and this time the Hesperus was fairly and swiftly launched with the skipper and his little daughter aboard. On sailed the craft and on sailed Emmie ("as I called her/' James explained), both rising and falling with the angry sea and rolling waves. With her ever-increasing confidence he felt his own cour- age returning, and presently he gazed with mouth wide open at the fair and fat girl on the platform. Oh, the joy he felt that she Avas his. If he could meet her on the way from school that afternoon he believed he would tell her how he loved her and thus relieve his overburdened heart. She, so simple, so fair, so plump (if a trifle too short), and withal so very modest! He did not hear a word now of the recitation, so engrossed was he in the living poem before 85 THE BRAND him. But, as she made a frantic, sweeping ges- ture, he came back to earth with a thud as he heard : "The waves looked soft as carded wool ; But the cruel rocks, they gored her side. Like the horns of an angry cow." "Now, that settled me; that settled Emmie; for shame, Longfellow !" concluded James, laugh- ing as he brought to his mind's eye the tragedy of that day at school. When the three were able to resume their meal after the merriment caused by his narrative, Bess remarked : "And that fatal Hesperus wrecked all his faith in women. I have scarcely even found him looking at one, if he could avoid it. Poor, broken-hearted brother, 7 ' she mocked, teasingly. A few days later one of West's cowboys took a splendid Hereford bull across the hills to old Savaeau, with instructions for him to "stick his iron on the animal." 86 CHAPTER XI THE MIRACLE OF WOMANHOOD Dave Davis, the Indian agent, had sent word that he wished to be removed to his quarters at Arlee as soon now as possible. Today, the day af- ter Bess' return from her interesting visit to St. Ignatius Mission, he was expecting one of his policemen to come for him. His foot was far from strong, but he had managed since Sunday to hobble about with one crutch and a cane. The past two days had been tedious and long, and he had sorely missed the cheery presence of the girl. How he should miss her singing and her reading ! He secretly wished he had further excuse to re- main near her; yet, on the other hand, it was distasteful to him to be brought in contact with West. Thus far they had seen little" of each other. Today at luncheon would be their first meal together. Each dreaded the meeting, yet Davis could not excuse himself, and if Henry West was at home, he was too much of a gentle- man to allow a guest to note any displeasure. Davis slowly and painfully found his way down stairs and into the living-room, in quest of Mrs. West, to apprise her of his expectant de- parture some time during the day, and to offer, if he might, some pecuniary settlement for all the comforts and attentions which he had received during his enforced stay at the HW Ranch. No one seemed to be about, but presently he heard, coming from another part of the house, 87 THE BRAND Bess' melodious voice. Wafted to him came the words, "And sometimes in the twilight gloom apart " He passed through the dining-room and paused before the half-open door of the kitchen. "The tall trees whisper, whisper heart to heart," continued the girl, all unconscious of the alert ear at the door-casing. "From my fond lips the eager answers fall thinking " A pause, as Bess stopped to glance at a cook- book which lay on a table just before her, and into her song was woven, " ( 'three eggs well beat- en') thinking I hear thee call." Then she closed her lips and softly hummed the air as she was vigorously beating a cream mixture in a huge yellow bowl. The beautiful picture which she made held the eaves-dropper entranced, and he scarcely breathed lest his presence be discovered and the charming vision be gone. Bess had on an immense blue and white ging- ham apron, the sleeves rolled high up above her dimpled elbows, exposing the creamy white of the fore-arm. A line of tan about the wrist showed that she had been thoughtless about exposing her hands to the sun and wind. A big floppy bow of black ribbon unsuccessfully restrained the soft knot of hair on her neck, and her "forelock," as she had denominated it, lay almost directly on her nose, all snowy white. A little UD conscious puff at the obstruction sent a tiny white cloud of flour into the air, which elicited an audible smile from the figure at the door-way. Bess quickly turned and faced the visitor. 88 THE MIRACLE OF WOMANHOOD "Oh ! Mr. Davis, aren't you dreadful to star- tle one so! The lady of the house is out," she said with a soft Irish twang to the words, "and 'tis against the rules an' regulations of this household to intertain any company in the kitchen." She artfully caught hold of either side of her apron and made a sweeping courtesy to him. "Oh, please let me come in, little girl; I'm lonesome ; I have n't seen you for three days, and now you would drive me away." Davis came up to the opposite side of the table, and presented such a pathetic, pleading spectacle that Bess relented and permitted him to be seated. Cautiously he sank into a chair and tenderly rested his lame foot across the crutch. Bess again took up the big spoon and pounded away vigorously at the contents in the yellow bowl, trying to cover her confusion. It is trying, at best, for even an expert in the culinary art, to be closely watched while en- grossed in the intricacies of mixing a cake; but how much more so, when a girl has not "tried her luck" for months, and besides, when the table;, the floor, the apron, her face, and even her hair, bear strong circumstantial evidence that the flour-sifter had leaked profusely. Furthermore, one dismal failure was spread out in full, accus- ing view on the table before her. Her cheeks burned with brilliant color, and her brown eyes flashed half nervously and half defiantly as she wielded the spoon. "You see," began Bess, in an explanatory voice, "Mrs. West was called to see Mrs. White, THE BRAND who is quite ill at Poison, and she gave me full sway in the kitchen for today. Mary, the Indian woman, is on a protracted visit to some of her relatives, over on Dayton Creek, so I am to get the meals. It's great fun to come into the kitchen and cook