Page 51 of Eleanor’s Earrings

“Neither can a three-year-old. We do not allow them to stop twelve wagons.”

He tied the cow.

By noon, the rear division had covered more ground with fewer halts.

Nathaniel joined Eleanor near the fire during the meal stop. “You moved four wagons.”

“Five.”(there’s only 6 in her half

“Why?”

She explained.

He listened without interrupting. “Good.”

That was all.

Eleanor had never been so pleased by one word.

Lydia joined them with a cup of water. “Eleanor has been smiling all morning.”

“I have not.”

“She smiled when you gave her the whistle.”

“Go help Martha.”

“Martha does not need help.”

“Then find someone who does.”

Lydia wandered away, laughing.

Nathaniel looked at Eleanor. “Was there a smile?”

“Absolutely not.”

“A pity. I like your smile.”

She looked away before he could see the one threatening now.

*****

NATHANIEL INVITED ELEANOR to share coffee during his night watch.

He did not call it an invitation. He simply appeared near the Whitaker wagons with two cups and told her that anyone responsible for part of the train should understand the night routine.

Eleanor accepted because refusing would have made the moment seem personal.

It was personal.

They sat near the edge of camp where the firelight faded into prairie darkness. The wagons formed a loose circle behind them. Oxen shifted in the grass, and someone snored loudly enough to frighten wildlife.

“Mr. Daugherty,” Nathaniel said.

Eleanor looked toward the sound. “Are you certain he is alive?”

“He does that every night.”