Scarlett, a Summer Bride

by Hildie McQueen

  Aurora didn’t move, her gaze downward. It was then Emmett realized he’d left the telegram from Lady Price on the side table.

  Moving slowly, his sister-in-law looked up at him. “You sent for a bride?” Her voice held a strange unbelieving tone.

  Emmett cleared his throat. “Not exactly.”

  “I don’t mean to pry, but from what it states here, Lady Price is contacting you about a bride. Did you respond?” This time she placed her hand on his forearm and leaned forward, her gaze searching his face.

  “I did. Why are you looking a me like that?”

  Her brow wrinkled as she frowned up at him. “Well...you are not exactly a friendly sort. I hope you don’t frighten the poor girl that comes to marry you.”

  “Fright...” He stopped and his lips curved. “I will endeavor not to scare her.”

  Not seeming to believe him, Aurora pressed her lips together in a tight line. “I hope not.”

  Her countenance changed and she moved away, hands clutched together. “How positively exciting. I can’t wait to tell Wilhelmina, Lucille...oh and Esther. We’ll have a new member of the family.” She beamed and hurried to the window as if willing her friends to appear. “When does she arrive?”

  “I don’t know.”

  “We should ask. Perhaps there is a telegram waiting. You should go check.” The woman hurried to the back and returned with her shawl. “On second thought, I’ll stop by there on my way to the mercantile.”

  She hurried out the door before Emmett could utter a word.

  What was it about brides that made women get all animated? If anything, whoever came would be overwhelmed, unhappy, and unsure of having come. In his opinion, the only women who accepted a husband sight unseen were those in desperate situations. Either that or so homely no man where they lived would offer marriage.

  Emmett wasn’t sure what to do about the current situation. For the first time in weeks, he had a moment of free time. He decided to check in at the clinic to ensure all was clean and orderly. Gladys would arrive later that morning to clean and organize supplies as she often did. The woman was a great assistant. Didn’t take any sass from the patients, would help him when needed, and brought him a meal daily.

  Gladys, who lived with her husband and mother-in-law, seemed to relish time away from her home, often sitting at the clinic knitting for hours while keeping an eye on the door.

  Through the kitchen and out the back door, it was a short walk to the clinic just a few yards away. The small building housed a large open space with two beds, a stove, a desk and several chairs. Along one wall were shelves where medical herbs, tonics and such were stored. Beneath it was a cabinet that held bowls, cups, and whatever was needed to mix up items.

  Next to each bed was a table used for holding water and such. Beneath them were bedpans and neatly folded cloths that could be used to mop up messes.

  All in all, the clinic was perfect. His brother had done well in setting it up, and Emmett felt at home in the space.

  Gladys entered the front door and huffed. “I don’t see how I can continue to live with my mother-in-law. The woman needs to find a hobby,” she grumbled, placing a basket next to a chair and going to the stove.

  Shoving small logs into it, she continued. “The nerve of her this morning telling me I didn’t know the first thing about making proper cornbread.”

  As was his custom, Emmett remained silent. He went out back to the water pump and brought back a bucket of water. He then poured water into the teakettle and placed it on the stove’s surface.

  “Thank you Dr. Jones. I may require something strong today. Perhaps thistle tea to settle my nerves.” She sunk into a chair and glared at the door.

  After ensuring jugs of water were filled, Emmett went to the front porch and stood looking toward the center of town.

  As usual, mornings were a busy time. Men hustled to and fro with large bags on their backs into the mercantile. A group of women gathered in front of the new apothecary. Several men on horseback rode past, followed by a wagon loaded high with bushels of hay.

  For a few moments, Emmett watched the barber sweep the walkway in front of his shop while speaking to a man who stood on the road.

  Life in Laurel, although quiet, was good. These were hardy people who did what they could to live day to day. Although he was part of the community, Emmett sensed he’d become more involved once his new bride arrived.

  A wagon came into view. Evan motioned for him to come closer as he pulled it to a stop and jumped down. His brother rushed to the back.

  Down the steps to the back of the wagon, Emmett stopped at seeing a crying dirty faced girl. Her curly hair had been braided into two braids, but now only one remained, half of her head was askew, as the curls had escaped. Tears poured down her cheeks and she wiped them away with her arm, leaving a trail of dirt and mud.

  “Help me get her down. She’s broken her lower leg.”

  They tugged the blanket she laid on to the edge and then carefully took her into the clinic as Gladys held the door open.

  “Jenny, your mama is going to beat the tar out of you once you heal,” Gladys told the now wide-eyed girl.

  Evan had splinted the leg. All that could be done for the time being was to examine it, clean it and bandage it tightly, which would bring more tears.

  As if conjured, the mother stormed in, cheeks flushed. “What did I tell you about climbing trees with Billy?” With both hands on her hips, she glared down at the girl who began crying again.

  “She broke her leg. We’ll have to splint it before she can go home,” Evan began explaining, falling easily into the role of town doctor. “She won’t be climbing any trees for at least a couple months.”

  Deflated, the woman backed to a chair and sat. “I can’t let them out of my sight for a minute.”

  Gladys pushed a cup into the woman’s hands. “Drink this. It will be a bit before Jenny can go home.”

  While the women spoke on the other side of the room, Emmett and Evan began examining the girl, moving her as little as possible. Each time the girl cried out, the mother would look over, concern etched on her face.

  Finally over an hour later, the girl was sent home. Thanks to a healthy dose of laudanum, she’d sleep for the rest of the day.

  Just as they finished cleaning up, a man who’d been kicked by a cow was carried in. Thankfully, the man would recover. Other than a broken nose and two very bruised eyes, he’d be very sore the next day.

  By the time they returned home, Emmett could barely stand. Evan shoved him into a chair and placed his palm over his brow.

  “Damn it Emmett, why didn’t you tell me you didn’t feel well. You’ve got a fever.”

  “No I don’t.” Emmett tried to stand, but Evan pushed him back.

  “Sit still.” His brother went to the medical satchel and retrieved several items. Seconds later, he’d been examined and diagnosed with the grippe.

  “Oh no,” Aurora stared down at him. Her pretty face pinched, lips in a tight line. “I’m so glad we left our son with Wilhelmina.” She held both hands down. “Don’t touch anything Evan. I have to air the house out and wipe down everything with vinegar...or is it lye?”

  “Either one,” the brothers replied in unison.

  “Off you go,” Aurora pointed toward the bedrooms. “To bed. You will stay in that room.” She looked to Evan. “He needs to bathe and we will do so as well once he’s done.”

  It didn’t occur to either of them to protest as Aurora wouldn’t relent and it was best to do as she instructed. Besides, a bath sounded like a good idea to Emmett. He was sure he wasn’t afflicted by the grippe. He’d taken every precaution when caring for patients.

  By that evening, he became less sure as he shook beneath the blankets not able to feel warm no matter what he did. Curled into a ball, he closed his eyes as sweat dripped from his temples. It was the worst time to be ill.

  “Emmett?” Evan had come to check on him again. “You need any
thing?”

  “A new head,” he gritted out the words through the pounding of his temples. “New bones would be nice.”

  His brother checked the pulse at his neck and helped Emmett sit up. Evan then pressed a cup of water to his lips. “Drink up, I’ll make a bromide mixture for your chest.”

  Closing his eyes and drinking down the liquid, he couldn’t help but wonder when the mail order bride would arrive. Hopefully not for a couple weeks, since everyone he’d treated with the grippe took about fourteen days or so to recover. Even then, the progress from that point was slow.

  If he calculated right, he didn’t expect she’d arrive until late the following month. There was plenty of time to recover.

  Another thing to consider was the fact some died from the grippe. If he were to succumb, then it would be horrible for his potential bride.

  “I may need you to send a telegram for me.”

  Chapter Five

  The surroundings took all of Scarlett’s attention. She’d never seen so much open space and such beauty of nature. Mountains, trees and grass as far as the eye could see. The train had slowed and the destination announced.

  Laurel, Montana, a place that up until just a few days ago, she’d never heard of. Now she clutched her bag and peered out to take in as much as she could of her new home. The day was sunny and warm, but seemed so much different than Philadelphia, with clean freshness in the air.

  Two women who also traveled to Laurel had befriended Scarlett. The mother, Harriett and daughter, Fern were joining the patriarch, who’d come months ahead to oversee the building of their home. The man was a banker and Fern, with her mother’s help planned to open a seamstress shop.

  According to Harriett, it was a small town, but filled with plenty of amenities so that it would not be too much of an adjustment for Scarlett.

  Of course, the woman repeated what the patriarch had written her and seemed to be reassuring herself as much as Scarlett.

  Finally the train came to a complete stop and long shrill whistles floated in through the window.

  Fern reached for Scarlett’s hand. “We’ll be good friends. Come visit my shop and help me decorate. I am so glad to already have a new friend.”

  Although her stomach was in knots, Scarlett couldn’t help but grin at Fern. “Yes, we will be fast friends and perhaps, I will be able to come and help out on occasion. I suppose it depends on my husband.”

  Husband. The word felt so foreign each time she said it. It hadn’t occurred to her to not disclose her reason for traveling and the women had accepted it and even congratulated her on being courageous.

  The women decided to disembark together and Scarlett wanted to cry with relief, as she did not relish the idea of being alone at this moment.

  Fern squeezed her hand. “This is so exciting. I hope he is handsome and tall.”

  A chuckle escaped. “Tall?”

  “Well yes, I don’t know why, but I favor tall men.” Fern lifted both shoulders in a playful display. “I hope to marry a tall man.”

  The platform was filled with activity. People rushed to greet those arriving and men scrambled to and fro helping unload luggage and other items.

  There was a small building, which Scarlett assumed was the train station offices. In front, men were lined up, most looking toward the train with curiosity but not moving forward to greet anyone.

  When a pair of men disembarked, a younger one came to greet them with a shake of a hand and together they walked off toward where wagons and horses were tethered.

  Scarlett wasn’t sure exactly what to do, so she waited for a young boy to come near. “Excuse me. Can you help me unload my trunk?”

  The boy grinned showing a missing front tooth. “Yes ma’am. Jus’ show me which one.”

  At the same time a man came over to where Fern and Harriett stood. Immediately, Harriett began to cry hugging the older man who looked to be more embarrassed at her display than excited to see her.

  Fern smiled warmly and accepted a one-arm hug from her father.

  “Phillip, this is our new friend Scarlett,” Harriett introduced her and the man touched the brim of his hat.

  “Very nice to meet you,” Scarlett said. “I truly enjoyed getting to know your wife and daughter.”

  The man nodded. “Pleased to make your acquaintance young lady.”

  When a tall man with dark blond hair neared, Scarlett’s eyes rounded at meeting the handsome man’s gaze. If this was to be her husband, she wasn't sure whom in heaven to thank.

  Just then a petite brunette came along to his side and took his arm marking him as hers. Scarlett looked away embarrassed, sure her face was flushed.

  “Scarlett Franklin?” the blond man asked, his eyes on her face. “Are you Scarlett Franklin?”

  “Yes I am.” Scarlett looked to him and then to the woman. “And you are?”

  “Evan Jones,” he said and then turned to the woman. “This is Aurora Jones, my wife. My brother, Emmett, is indisposed and asked us to come fetch you.”

  “Oh.”

  Along with Fern and Harriett, who’d not moved, Scarlett stared at the couple. Finally Fern spoke, “My goodness, I hope your brother is not unwell.”

  Harriett elbowed her daughter. “Excuse her rudeness. My daughter and I have just arrived as well. We’ve befriended Scarlett. She is a sweet girl.”

  As everyone introduced themselves, Scarlett couldn’t formulate a cohesive thought. If her soon to be husband looked anything like his brother, she was going to be very fortunate in marrying an attractive man.

  Not just attractive, but Evan Jones’ personality was welcoming as well.

  While her luggage was loaded onto a wagon, she bid temporary farewells to Harriett and Fern promising to be in touch soon. Evan informed them of where she was to live and the husband acknowledged he knew where the clinic was located.

  “I know you have so many questions. I promise everything will be fine.” Aurora took her arm and guided her to the wagon. “I didn’t come here as a mail order bride, but did come in hopes of marrying.” She smiled warmly at her husband who was busy ensuring Scarlett’s trunk was securely in place. “I am so glad I took such a huge leap of faith.”

  “Why couldn’t Emmett come?”

  Aurora let out a sigh. “He is sick. He’s been taking care of several families who’ve fallen ill to a horrible grippe. Because of not taking care and resting enough, he succumbed. Now he is a grumpy patient.”

  The woman laughed. “It’s true what they say, doctors make horrible patients.”

  It didn’t seem as if her soon to be husband was in any horrible danger, so Scarlett relaxed. Perhaps it was for the best. This way she’d have time to settle in and get to know him for a bit until he was well enough to attend the marriage ceremony.

  “Pastor Ward will be coming over the day after tomorrow to marry you. It’s best to get married so that you can live in the same house without there being any wagging of tongues.”

  “I will be there alone with him?” Scarlett hadn’t actually given much thought to where she’d live upon arriving. The realness of the situation she was in began to sink in. “Where are you going?”

  “No not alone as yet. Evan and I plan to remain for a few more days. I have some social obligations to attend in town and Evan is taking care of patients until Emmett recovers. However, I want to return home. We have a young son who I miss terribly.”

  As they rode down the center of the rustic, but quaint and picturesque town, both Evan and Aurora pointed out buildings and explained what each was and who owned it.

  There was a hotel, a mercantile and a newly built bank. On the opposite side of the street, there was a saloon, an apothecary and houses. On one corner was a jail house and stables. People milled about, some working while others enjoyed the sunny day sitting in rockers and visiting.

  The pace of life there was definitely much slower than Philadelphia. It reminded Scarlett of life in Georgia, where most days were spent sitti
ng in the shade avoiding the heat and mosquito bites.

  When Evan slowed down to allow for a group of children to cross the street, Aurora waved at the schoolmarm. “That is Isabel, the pastor’s daughter. She’s taken over the responsibilities of teaching the town’s children. You’ll get to know her, she is very nice.”

  They continued on and Scarlett couldn't help but study the saloon. She’d heard about such places and often wondered if the stories of debauchery and drunken men fighting were true.

  Piano music spilled out from the open doors as a woman emerged from the saloon and threw her head back laughing as two men neared. Both said something and she threaded her arm through theirs guiding them into the darkened interior.

  “The saloon is certainly a colorful place,” Aurora informed her following her line of sight. “For the most part, we don’t have too many problems because of it.”

  Scarlett nodded and looked to Aurora. “How long have you lived here?

  “Two and a half years,” Aurora said smiling toward Evan. “I came here in the middle of one of the worst winter storms.”

  When Evan met his wife’s gaze, the attraction between them was palpable and Scarlett blushed.

  Would she be as lucky?

  When Evan brought the wagon to a stop in front of a house with a porch across the front of it, she wondered if it was their home.

  Aurora answered the unspoken question. “This is your home now, Scarlett.”

  Scarlett took in the structure. It was a simple house with two windows facing the street and a pair of rockers on the porch. There were curtains, but they’d been pulled aside to allow light to enter.

  “It’s nice.”

  Aurora grinned. “I love it. I miss living here at times. You see Evan and I lived here until we moved closer to where he owns land. Although it’s beautiful out there, I miss being so close to everything.”

  The woman continued chatting as Evan assisted them from the bench and she followed him to the back of the wagon. Other than a trunk and a large carpetbag, Scarlett didn’t have anything else to bring.

  Finally, they went up the two steps to the porch and Aurora opened the front door allowing her inside.