Drama In My Life

Vern Jordan was there with Bob and Cathy. He spoke to Emerson. "These two are everything to me and the missus. They are old enough to be on their own, but as parents we worry. I know the sort of things that are in front of you. We made a few drives in Texas over the years. I want you to know you have my permission to spank either one of them as the need arises." Vern showed a smile, "I couldn't ask for a better crew for them to trail with, or a better boss. I know you will do your best."

Cathy hugged her father, then Bob shook his hand. Finally, Emerson shook his hand and looked into Jordan's eyes. He said nothing, but Vern Jordan knew he had received Emerson's commitment to all he could to keep Cathy and Bob safe.

Pedro was in charge of the chuck wagon and Pat Casey rode out front with him. Ernie Hooker and Miguel took point with Bob and Cathy behind in the swing. Tom rode flank behind Cathy while Tim Robinson did the same on the other side of the herd, behind Bob. Jack Robinson had charge of the remuda and Emerson, Maria, and Billy rode drag.

As dusk approached the herd had gone almost twelve miles and Emerson was satisfied. Everyone seemed to know their jobs and performed them well. Maria had held up well, although drag was the dustiest place she could have been. From time to time Emerson had seen her cut off steers trying to quit the herd. He found himself admiring her determination. She never questioned his orders when he began the drive.

Maria had been furious when Emerson told her to ride drag. It wasn't that she felt she shouldn't be expected to handle any riding chore. She just felt Emerson was trying to be rough on her personally. She was determined to do the best job possible and show him he couldn't break her.

It was a two hours into the drive when Billy drifted through the dust and close enough to talk to Maria. "I guess Emerson likes you," he smiled. "You started in the best place."

"I think the dust has gotten to you, Billy. This is the worst job on the drive! He's just trying to teach me humility." Maria was still angry.

"Well, I could be wrong, but usually we switch positions every day. That would mean we will only have half a day of this dust. Tomorrow, those riding drag will to it all day." Billy turned to chase a steer back into the group.

Pedro had dinner ready when Emerson, Maria, and Billy rode up to the camp fire. Pat, Miguel, and Ernie had already finished and were back out circling the herd. The rest were working on their meals.

"I never knew beans and biscuits could taste so good," Cathy spoke as she dished more onto her plate. "I hope I don't gain weight on this trip. If I do, Pedro, it will be your fault."

Pedro, who had not been thrilled being named cook, flashed a big grin. Emerson knew the man would respond to the praise of a pretty girl and enjoy his job a little more. Women did bring certain advantages with them, even on a trail drive.

Tom Gordon stood as he ate. "I hope that saddle gets softer tomorrow! I feel like I won't ever be able to sit again."

Everyone laughed at Tom's discomfort. Billy spoke up, "Tom, it'll get worse before it gets better, but in a couple of days you'll feel like you were born in the saddle."

Maria joined the conversation. "I realize a bath is out of the question, but is there someplace we can clean up a bit? I feel like I have half of New Mexico in my clothes."

"Pedro, every evening when you set up camp, would you stretch a tarp from the wagon out somehow so the ladies can have some privacy." Emerson smiled, "I suspect they are more concerned about those things than these cowboys. Water is our enemy, right men?"

"Actually, Emerson, I thought I'd jump in every stream and water hole we came across." Tom laughed, "I hope that doesn't mean I'm off the drive."

Emerson knew he had a good crew, if a little unusual, and enjoyed the minutes spent at the camp fire listening to the good humored banter. It was important to keep the morale up on a difficult undertaking and this group had the right balance of youth and experience. If he could stay on top of problems as they appeared, it could be a very successful drive.

Emerson gave out orders for night duty and the next morning. "There will be four shifts of three riders watching the herd every night. Every two hours we'll switch. That should give everyone time to sleep. Decide what shift you want and we will work it that way every night, unless something unforeseen happens."

"The riders will rotate positions on the drive every morning, except Pat will lead and I'll stay at drag for awhile. Breakfast should be done by daylight. Now decide your shifts." Emerson stood by the fire and listened to the various theories as to what shift was the best.

When it was over, Bob, Cathy, and Tom had the shift after Pat, Ernie, and Miguel. Pedro and the Robinsons were next with Maria, Billy and Emerson taking the last.

Maria then surprised Emerson and the others by declaring, " I'll ride drag for a few days. I don't want any favors by starting with a half day." She looked at Emerson. "I can hold up my end."

Billy Hatko laughed at Emerson's confused expression. "I suppose I can survive back there for a while, too. You have to wonder where she gets these ideas, don't you, Emerson?"

Emerson realized he didn't know everything that was going on, but was too tired to attempt to get to the bottom of it. He simply turned and prepared his bedroll.

It seemed like he had just closed his eyes when Pedro was shaking him awake. Emerson sat up and pulled his boots on. Billy was waking up nearby and Maria was standing by the fire, drinking coffee.

Emerson was amazed at how good Maria looked. She showed no effects of the previous day and the short night. "Maria, how can you look so good this time of morning?" Emerson asked before he was fully awake.

Showing surprise, Maria responded, "Well thank-you, Boss. I bet you say that to all the hands."

Emerson laughed and then looked over at Billy. "I definitely do not! Look at that creature over there. No matter how long we were at sea, he never looked very good."

The three soon were mounted and riding out to the herd. The Robinsons went in to catch a little more sleep while Maria, Billy and Emerson circled the cattle. Emerson found himself considering Maria as he rode. She always seemed to be at odds with him. How did she figure out he was cutting her a break with the drag yesterday? He had seen the quick resentment in her eyes when he first assigned her to it. He thought she may openly question him. Instead, she was determined to show she was as good or better than the next rider. He had to admire her spirit!

The day went much like the previous one, except it seemed much longer. Emerson occasionally rode beside Billy or Maria. Both of them were in good spirits and would talk and smile into the dust. Maria seemed to be friendly and Emerson found himself enjoying an unpleasant job.

Over the next few days, a gradual pattern developed. Emerson noticed that Tom would be near Cathy as they ate at the camp fire. Bob was always eager to please Emerson and constantly asked questions about various methods of fighting. Emerson tried to give some encouragement, but a trail drive allowed little opportunity to give Bob any detailed lessons.

Tom wore a colt, as did all the men, and occasionally asked Emerson about learning to draw it fast. "Tom, I hope you never have to use that gun on a man, but if you do, remember accuracy is more important than speed. Make your first shot count. I've heard a few stories of how a fast man was killed by a slower one that shot straight. The thing is keep your nerve. Concentrate on the job and don't think about anything else. That's about the best advice I can give you," Emerson finished.

The Robinsons did their work and were quiet men, keeping to themselves and the older men seemed to be comfortable with each other. Billy was fun for everyone and had no pattern at meal times. He spent a lot of time with Bob, especially after he explained how he had shown Emerson most of what Emerson knew. More than a few times Emerson watched Billy holding his fists up and gesturing to Bob to try to match Billy's movements. Emerson smiled as he thought how delighted Billy was to have someone that wanted to listen to him.

Maria was friendly enough and she and Emerson often would sit near each other while they ate. Emerson noticed that they developed a habit of glancing at each other when someone would make a wild statement or discuss a difficult situation. He realized he would look to see Maria's thoughts and she would do the same with him.

On the fourth night as Emerson rode to the camp fire Pat Casey was there to meet him. "Emerson, there is a water hole ahead about ten miles and I rode up and checked on it. We've been lucky so far and this is a big place with plenty of water. The problem is some poor Mexican has decided to live there and has a garden near the water. We'll never be able to keep the cattle from destroying it. They will be thirsty and we won't have much control of them when they smell the water. What do you want to do?" Pat was glad to let Emerson make the decision.

"Pat, I'll head out early and talk to him. No one plants a garden along the only water within a day's ride. I guess he thought no one would try this trail again. You bring the cattle as usual." Emerson was concerned but showed no sign of it.

"If you don't mind, Boss, I'll go with you." It was Maria. I deserve some time away from the wrong end of these cattle and this man may not speak English. As you are aware, I am part Spanish and can speak it fluently. I want to see how you handle this situation."

Emerson smiled and gave Billy, who was about to speak, a warning look. "I hadn't thought of that. Of course you should go with me. Billy, take care of things back there."

The next day saw Emerson and Maria in the saddle before full light. Emerson was very aware of the girl riding with him, but tried to think about the man at the water hole. Maria had different ideas.

"Emerson, you really haven't said much about the places you've been and the things you've seen. Billy talks about a lot of things, but I would like to hear what you have to say. Mother said you told her some very interesting stories about your travels."

Emerson looked at Maria and saw she was truly interested. "Maria, I didn't realize you were interested. Ask me questions and I will try to answer them."

The next hour passed quickly as the two talked about the world in which they lived. Maria was fascinated with Emerson's experiences in lands she had not even known existed. He had the ability to describe places so she could see them in her mind. Maria realized as they rode that she had never enjoyed spending time with anyone as much as she had the past hour.

"Emerson, since you have traveled so much, where do you think the most beautiful women in the world are?" Maria was curious about Emerson's experience with the fairer sex. A man as attractive as he was had to have had women interested in him. "I've heard of the elegance of England and France and the skin and figures of girls on different islands in the Pacific. What is your honest opinion?" .

Emerson didn't answer for a minute and Maria began to wonder if he would. Finally, he turned and looked at her. "Maria, I have answered all your questions as honestly as I could, but I think this will have to end this session. I have seen lovely girls in all parts of the world. They aren't limited to any geographical area. To answer your last question, and I didn't bring the subject up, the most beautiful woman I have ever seen in my travels was covered with dust on an obscure trail in the heart of New Mexico Territory." Emerson then faced ahead and seemed to study the trail.

Maria flushed. She had not expected that response! She could think of nothing to say so she remained quiet. She knew Emerson had revealed a part of himself that he normally kept concealed, and the woman in her responded to it. What a way to dig out the best compliment she had ever received, and from Emerson Trask of all people!

Riding in silence, they topped a rise and saw the water a half mile ahead. It was a good sized body of water for this country, probably covering several acres. They could see a small shack to the east of the water with a garden between it and the water.

As they rode up, a Mexican in his late twenties emerged from the shack, an old rifle under his arm. Emerson looked around as Maria spoke to the man in Spanish. He noticed small toys near the shack and a few flowers growing along side it. This man would have a woman and at least one child here.

The garden showed signs of much effort but was not doing very well. Emerson could see that the soil here would not support much other that grass and weeds. The man was fighting a losing battle.

"Emerson, he says this is his place and his water. We are welcomed to water our animals but not to trample his garden. Cattle must stay at the far side of the pool. I told him our herd was too large and we would not be able to promise the safety of the garden. He says he will shoot any thing that approaches it. He needs it all for the winter." Maria finished the translation and added, "I would hate to try to make it through the winter on what this man is cultivating."

"Ask him if he will accept fifty dollars American and three steers for everything in his garden. Tell him that is my best offer, but if he finds his way to Miguel Hernandez' ranch near Morgantown, he will be offered a job and a home for him and his family." Emerson added, "Also tell him he must decide soon."

Maria looked at Emerson. "You sure drive a hard bargain. Everything here wouldn't be worth twenty dollars, and he never said he had a family, but I'll tell him."

As Maria spoke to the man he became excited and nodded his head vigorously. It was a deal. As Emerson took out some gold pieces to give the man, a young woman, obviously pregnant, and a little boy emerged from inside the shack. They were all smiling.

Maria turned to Emerson, "You were right about his family! How did you know-." She fell silent as she watched Emerson dig something from his saddlebag and toss it to the boy. The child deftly caught it, looked at it briefly, and put it in his mouth. "Emerson, what was that?"

Smiling, Emerson looked at Maria. "I always carry some hard candy with me for situations like this. Kids love it. I always did."

It was then they heard the bawling of the cattle and turned to see them topping the rise half a mile distant. Soon the entire ridge was filled with running animals as they sensed the water. There was no controlling them, nor was there any need to do so.

Maria looked at Emerson and laughed. "That sure is a nice sight, especially since we aren't eating all that dust this time. You solved that problem, although it was a bit expensive. Why did you offer so much?"

Emerson watched the herd wade into the water as he spoke, "This man has a family. The garden was mighty humble but it represented a man's effort to provide for them. Now he has something to show his woman for his effort. That leaves him with his pride. Take that from a man and he has nothing. If it came to fighting, how good would we feel to leave a child and a pregnant woman here to face the elements? I'd rather give him the entire herd than wrong, or possibly kill, a man trying to take care of his family."

The rest of the crew rode up. Pat Casey looked at the smiles on the faces of the family, even as the cattle began to destroy the garden.

"I would have to guess that you took care of this situation. He looks like the cat that swallowed the canary." With that Pat gestured to the Mexican. "I didn't realize he had a family. How did you do it?

Maria answered before Emerson could speak. "He drove a hard bargain, and got this man to accept fifty dollars in gold coins and three steers from the herd as well as a promise of a home and employment at Hernandez' place."

Pat Casey looked at Emerson for a time then nodded. "That is little enough to give a man when you are going to do something that could ruin, or take, his life. Keep track of these expenses and we'll settle at the end of the drive. Good job."

Emerson decided to let the herd stay near the water the rest of the day. Pat told him it would be getting drier for the sixty miles or so and thirsty animals lost weight.

The chuck wagon set up near the water and everyone ate together as the cattle all grazed nearby. Cathy and Tom had been riding drag and were talking about that particular piece of hell. Emerson once again found Maria's eyes and a smile as the crew listened to their complaints.

"As soon as I finish this meal I am going to go jump in that water hole!" Tom stated. "I must have twenty pounds of dust stuck to me. How could you stand it, Emerson?"

Cathy was equally vocal. "Maria, you take a bath when your hands get dirty. I can't see how you could have ridden drag all these days. It must have been awful!"

Soon after finishing his meal, Tom walked to water's edge, peeled off his shirt and boots and waded into the murky water and sat down. Soon he produced a bar of soap and began to wash the grime from his torso. Bob watched for a few minutes and then joined him. Within a few minutes Billy and Emerson were splashing and scrubbing themselves.

Cathy watched as long as she could and then removed her boots and joined the men, fully clothed. "I guess it is a good thing Dad didn't come," she laughed as she washed her hair. "I don't know what he would think of this, but it sure feels better! Come on Maria, the water isn't that great but it beats the dust we've been eating."

Maria declined, "My father did come, remember? I'll bring some water to the wagon and clean up, thanks.

Emerson left the water and went back to the camp, dug some dry pants out of his warbag. He disappeared from sight for a minute and returned to place his wet pants on a rock in the sun to dry. Maria was conversing with the Mexican man from the nearby shack.

Emerson had prevented Billy from telling Maria that he, Emerson, was fluent in Spanish. He was easily able to understand what the man was telling Maria.

He told her about Gustin's gang. They centered their activities in a wide spot in the road called Palma. They were very dangerous, especially to women, the Mexican told Maria. Cathy and Maria could expect no mercy from that gang. Joe Miller and Mike Tuleya were riding with Gustin, along with eight or nine others, including a renegade Apache. The Mexican advised that the women turn back.

Maria finished listening to the man and turned to Emerson. "He is telling me that Gustin has Joe Miller and Mike Tuleya riding with him, as well as an Apache and eight or nine others. They have been spreading fear over a big piece of New Mexico."

Emerson knew Maria deliberately neglected to repeat the part about the particular danger women were in. Thinking about Maria and Cathy falling into the hands of men like that caused Emerson to shudder. He would do everything in his power to prevent that!

The next two days passed uneventfully. Emerson managed to tell the men about the Gustin gang and to be particularly alert. He also passed along the possibility of the women being in danger, but asked them to keep that part from the girls.

Pat and Tom both voiced their concerns to Emerson. "I know exactly how you both feel," Emerson responded. "Make it a point to always have them in sight. They are far more important than the cattle. I can assure you that I am prepared to fight to the death for those girls. I think you feel the same. In fact, every man in this crew has come to feel that way. Keep your rifles handy and your eyes open."

The next day began sunny, but by mid afternoon it became evident that a major storm was brewing. As they rode, the clouds built up, growing darker by the minute.

Emerson rode to the front and told Pat and Pedro to find a suitable place for a camp, that they would stop early and be ready for the storm. The cattle were becoming increasingly nervous.

Riding back, he told Bob to be ready to get out of the way if the animals began to stampede. Emerson told him to pass word back to the other riders on that side of the herd. By this time it was prematurely dusk and Emerson started his gelding through the herd to speak to Maria and the other riders on the far side. He was half way across the sea of cattle when a bolt of lightning struck the hill half a mile behind him. Dirt and rock flew through the air and the clap of thunder was deafening.

The entire herd, of a single mind, swung away from the blast and began to run. Emerson was caught in it and his horse began to stretch out. Ahead, Emerson saw Maria swing her horse and race for safety. While his position was dangerous, Emerson felt relief seeing Maria removing herself from harm's way.

Lightning was frequent and was the only way anything was visible, it had grown so dark. The herd was running full speed and Emerson knew the cattle would simply run until they became too tired to go on. In the next flash he saw Maria's horse go down hard! In the dark it must have tripped or stepped into a hole. As the sky lit up again Emerson saw the horse without the rider running for safety. Feeling his gut tighten, he turned his horse toward the place Maria had fallen. Cattle were everywhere and he had to force his horse to fight through the stampede. Emerson could hear the horns of the cattle cracking against each other as the herd surged.

Emerson felt a jolt in his right leg. A big steer had stumbled. As it regained its footing the tip of its horn had torn his pants and gouged his thigh. Emerson found himself hoping his mount wouldn't suffer a similar fate. He had heard of horses being disemboweled by longhorns in a stampede.

Emerson well knew the fate that waited anyone on foot in front of these terrified beasts. Maria had only one small chance, and that was for him to reach her before the herd did.

On the knoll they had reached, Pat Casey and Pedro watched the scene unfold in horror. On the trail a quarter mile back, Bob, Tom, and Cathy sat their horses, mesmerized by the drama in front of them. They were safe with the herd going away from them, but in the flashes of lightning they saw Emerson riding in the stampede and Maria fleeing from it.

Cathy was fighting to remain calm. "Emerson, ride that horse! Maria, get out of there fast! Did Maria's horse go down? That herd is headed right at her! God help her!" she cried. The men with her were silent, caught in the drama of nature and man.

As they watched Emerson worked his way through the herd. With every flash they could see his horse inching up on the leaders of the stampede. Maria was on her feet facing the herd. There was no where for her to go. No one could have possibly outrun the herd and it was too wide to get around.

It was Tom that spoke, "Emerson sees her! Even fighting that stampede, he is trying to get to Maria! I don't know if he can get there in time, but he sure as Hell is going for it!"

In the next flash the group gave a collective gasp as Emerson's horse tripped and went to its front knees. The ensuing flash seemed to take forever. When it came Emerson was still mounted and his gelding was at the front of the thundering herd.

Cathy Jordan's voice was filled with the emotion they all felt. "That man can ride! He could swing to the side and be safe, but I know where he's headed. He is Maria's only chance and he knows it! He'll die before he lets her get hurt!"

Maria had seen the herd swing in her direction and knew what it meant. She turned her horse and gave it its head. She was beginning to feel safer when her mount stepped in a hole and went over. Maria hit the ground very hard and was stunned. Still, the danger she faced seemed to keep her conscious. She got back to her feet and looked around. To her left was a rock about two feet high and three across. She climbed on it and turned to face the herd. The sight was awe inspiring as the cattle raced toward her. She knew she could not outrun the danger so she stood and faced it.

It was in a lightning flash that she saw Emerson, bucking the herd and trying to beat the stampede to her. Even as the flood of hooves and horns swept toward her, Maria realized that she was not surprised. When she had climbed that rock she was instinctively looking for Emerson, and he was doing his best.

Her heart sank when she saw his horse trip. For the first time she understood that not only was her life in grave danger, but Emerson's was as well. Maria knew fear, and it wasn't for herself.

In the next flash, Emerson was still mounted and pulling ahead of the herd. Maria waved her arms and readied herself to jump onto Emerson's horse.

When Emerson's horse tripped, he pulled the reins up hard, trying to bring his gelding back to his feet. The horse responded and Emerson broke out of the stampede and raced for Maria. He wasn't far in front and dared not stop his horse. Lightning flashed again just as he reached Maria. She stood with her arm out, ready for Emerson to grab her. It turned dark as he reached for her, but he relied on his senses to remember the location of her arm.

Emerson felt his hand close on Maria's wrist and she held on to his. Then using all his strength, as the gelding kept running, he swung her onto the horse. Maria's arms circled his waist and they raced for safety.

The lightning had stopped. The last flash had occurred as Emerson approached Maria. Cathy, Bob, and Tom still sat their horses totally exhausted, from watching the events unfold. Billy rode up to them. Obviously, he had been a spectator as well.

"Have you ever seen riding like that? That man can do things others would never even dream of! It tired me out just watching it." Billy seemed to be catching his breath.

"Billy, we couldn't tell if Emerson got Maria away from there in time." It was Cathy and her concern was apparent. "Did you see if they made it? Are they okay?"

"I saw as much as you did. I watched a man ride into Hell to save the life of a beautiful girl. After getting through that herd, could you doubt Emerson would get her out of there? I know him. They made it."

As they talked, the rains came. By the time they dug out their slickers, they were soaked. Seeing the light of the camp fire, the group headed that way.

Upon their arrival, they found all present except Maria, Emerson and the Robinson brothers. Miguel was talking to Pat Casey. "I saw it all! They will be all right. We should keep a good fire going and wait for them to find us. It is so dark now you can't see your hand in front of your face. Be patient. The fire will bring them to us."

Ernie Hooker was there and added, "He's right, Pat. I saw it too, and I'll be damned if I ever saw it's like! That man will do! I saw Tim Robinson get away all right. He's probably helping his brother with the remuda. They will see the fire, too. We should get something to eat and wait."

Emerson didn't have to ride too far after picking up Maria. With the lightning over, the tired cattle soon began to slow down. Maria's grip on his waist was lessening, so he stopped and spoke for the first time.

"Maria, are you all right? That was some time you just had! Can you ride?" Her silence worried Emerson.

Finally Maria weakly answered, "I feel kind of dizzy and I can't hang on very well. I'm afraid I'm not much help to you."

Emerson turned in the saddle and lifted Maria around in front of himself. She felt cold and was shivering. He next dug his slicker out and wrapped her in it. Then holding her in his arms he tried to get his bearings in the blackness.

"I'm not really sure where the camp is, but I'll try to find a high spot and look for the fire." Emerson reassured Maria. "We'll be back at camp in no time. I'll bet your dad is worried." As he finished speaking, it began to rain.

It only took a few minutes of riding and Emerson found the light from the camp fire. He was surprised at how far away the camp was, but began to work back to it. The rain had lessened to become a steady drizzle. Soaked to the bone, Emerson held Maria and rode on.

"I knew you would come for me." It surprised Emerson when she spoke. He thought she had fallen asleep. "I was only afraid when I saw your horse stumble. I thought you would be killed."

Emerson tried to soothe her. "Maria, it is all over. You will be fine in the morning, so just relax."

Maria was in an odd mood and kept talking. "When you left Morgantown, I used to write letters to myself pretending they were from you. I wondered where you were and what you were doing. You really hurt me the day before you left, you know? Then it hurt even worse after you left. I cried for days."

Emerson disliked himself then. Why had he been so miserable? "Maria, I was a confused young man, a boy. I wanted you to notice me, so I was cruel to you. I was too shy and misguided to ever allow my true feelings to show. I don't blame you for hating me."

"That sounds good, but how can I hate you? You won't give me any reasons. You just saved my life. Even when you gave me reasons, I never really hated you, although I wanted to!"

Maria continued, "I have embarrassed myself. I bet you had such a time sailing that you forgot all about me. Billy says you were popular with the girls."

"Billy always talked too much. I had you in my thoughts for eight years. Two years ago, I bought an expensive ring and whenever someone asked me about girlfriends, I would show it to them and talk about the sweetheart I had at home and how the ring was for her. Now that I'm back I have a small pocket sewn into my left boot. I carry it there for luck, which has been with me so far."

Maria was silent and Emerson felt awkward. "I guess I embarrassed myself. We are getting close to the camp. It won't be long now."

Maria pulled the slicker off her head and looked up at Emerson. "I really do thank you for everything. You were great!" With that she reached up and kissed Emerson on the lips. "That will have to do until you can be better paid, Mr. Trask."

Emerson rode on, holding Maria a bit tighter. His thigh was beginning to ache, and he knew blood was trickling down his leg. He was cold and wet, but wished the ride would last forever. This beautiful girl in his arms made all the discomfort disappear.

Everyone was sitting around the camp fire, their meals long finished. The worry on Pat Casey's face seemed to set the mood. Finally, Pat stood up and declared, "The rain is about done and it will be getting lighter. I'm going to look for those two." Suddenly, his manner changed. "I hear a horse coming!"

Everyone was standing when Emerson rode into the light. He still had Maria wrapped in the slicker. Pat Casey walked up to Emerson's horse, fearing the worse.

"Emerson, how bad is she?' His voice was heavy with emotion.

Hearing her father, Maria pulled the slicker from her head. "Dad, you don't think Emerson would let anything happen to me? I'm banged up a little and I had to listen to this cowboy try to sweet talk me, but I'm feeling pretty good."

Pat Casey gave out a cry and took her in his arms. "I saw the whole thing. I guess all of us did. Everybody said Emerson had done the job, but I was so worried! Thank God you are okay!"

In the light of the fire a big knot showed on Maria's head. Billy Hatko looked at it. "I've seen people receive blows like that. It can leave a person confused. Sometimes they seem drunk. She'll be all right, but she will have a sore head in the morning."

Bob and Tom stood by Emerson as he warmed by the fire. Bob spoke for everyone. "Emerson, we watched that piece of work this evening. The lightning stopped before we could tell if you got to Maria in time, but we were all sure you did. I just want to say I'll ride with you anywhere, anytime!"

Cathy helped Maria to the small tent Pedro had fashioned. "I am going to get this girl warm, fed and to sleep. She's had one heck of a night!"

Pat Casey walked over to where Emerson stood. He held out his hand and told Emerson as they shook, "That girl is everything to her mother and me. I can't say enough. Thanks!"

Everyone there knew that Pat Casey had said it all. The feelings Pat had would be expressed in deeds over the years. Emerson had made a friend that would last.

Maria was lying on the bedroll listening to the conversation as Cathy prepared some food for her. She was still trembling from the cold, excitement, and the blow to her head.

She heard Bob exclaim, "Emerson! Look at your leg! You're bleeding like a stuck pig!"

Emerson's response was barely audible. "Not so loud, Bob. It isn't a big deal. Don't distress Maria any more than she already is."

Maria sat up and looked from her shelter. Emerson was standing by the fire, not ten feet from her. She could see the tear in his pant leg and the blood-soaked material.

Maria spoke his name, and he immediately came to her. "Are you going to be okay? You didn't tell me you were hurt, and I never thought to ask. I'm sorry. Should I take some stitches?"

"Maria, I am fine. I'll clean it up and Billy will look at it. It isn't deep, but if it requires sewing, Billy is adept at it. You have to eat and get some sleep. You were injured worse than I was."

With that Maria took the food Cathy was now handing to her and ate. Soon she was asleep.

The next morning saw the crew gathering the scattered herd. By midmorning they were on the trail. Cathy had stayed with Maria, who was still feeling groggy from the blow on her head. The two girls were on their mounts, ready to travel by the time the herd was gathered.

Around mid afternoon, Maria approached Emerson as he rode drag. She looked pail and the bump on her head had developed a purplish hue.

"Maria, are you all right?" Emerson's concern was obvious. "You should ride with Pedro for a day or two. We can handle this."

"I wanted to see how your leg was. You don't think my efforts are important? I'm not needed?" Maria asked.

Emerson looked at Maria and tried to form an answer. Before he could Maria was laughing at him.

"Emerson, I was having a little fun. I wanted to thank you for yesterday. I know how close that was, for both of us." Maria was serious. "I babbled a lot and I wanted to be sure you knew that I said some things I didn't mean-"

"You don't have to explain. I understand." Emerson cut in.

"Emerson, let me finish. I said things I didn't mean to say, although I may have meant them. I usually keep things like that to myself. I didn't say anything untrue. Do you see the difference?" asked Maria.

Emerson nodded and looked into Maria's eyes. "I do, and thanks for clearing that up. It makes me feel better, and my leg is fine."

Maria rode close to Emerson. "I did mean this," she smiled as she leaned over and kissed Emerson on the lips. "Emerson, thanks!"

"I feel like I should be thanking you!" Emerson laughed. "Maria, you know I will always help you any way I can."

"That is beginning to become clear, and it means a great deal to me. Do you want to check my lump?" Maria asked as she again rode close. The horses stood so the riders legs were touching.

Emerson smiled as he took her face in his hand and closely scanned Maria's forehead. Her eyes were closed and he took longer than neccessary. Maria opened her eyes to see the emotion on Emerson's face. She thrilled at what she saw.

"Do I look terrible?"

"No, you are lovely," Emerson responded.

"Is that a medical opinion?" Maria asked. "Did you even look at my bruise?"

Emerson laughed, "What bruise is that? I couldn't get past your beauty."

"I have to get back or Cathy will worry. She has reason to do so, with a sweet talking cowboy hanging around me. I'll see you at dinner."

That evening Pat Casey spoke to Emerson when he felt no one could hear. "Emerson, the next few days will tell the story. We are heading into the area Gustin's gang controls. I saw a rider yesterday morning. He said he heard Joe Miller and Mike Tuleya are in with Gustin. Those three are trouble enough without the rest of those hardcases, including some damned Apache. This could get pretty hot!"

"I've heard the same stories. We will try to cover as much ground as possible and hope Gustin is on one of his raids in Texas or down toward Mexico. He may be hundreds of miles away. Just the same, keep a close eye on the girls and keep your guns ready."

Emerson returned to the fire and spoke to the entire crew. "We are going to be in Gustin's general territory in a couple of days. I want everyone armed all the time and with lots of ammunition. That includes Cathy and Maria. I don't want anyone riding off alone. Gustin could be on a raid, hundreds of miles away, but we must be prepared."

"Tomorrow, we will stop early, near where we exit these hills. We can rest up some. I want to cover a lot of ground the following three days. We will be vulnerable to attack on the flats where it will be easier to stampede the herd in all directions. We should be past Palma before Gustin even realizes we were in the area."

Emerson made a point of talking to each man individually that evening, telling each the same. When he spoke to Bob and Tom, he could see the excitement in their faces. "I want you to be sure you know where the girls are all the time. These men are dangerous for all of us, but especially for the women. We will protect them at all costs. Don't ever think you have to choose between the herd and them. They are our first priority."

"Emerson, you are worried. You don't think Gustin is away somewhere on a raid, do you?" It was Bob speaking. "You are expecting a fight!"

"Bob, I don't have much faith in luck. We have a large herd leaving lots of sign and making a lot of dust. It would be a great haul for Gustin. We would be foolish not to expect trouble."

Tom had been quiet. "Emerson, you will be able to count on me. I'm much more comfortable with a gun and a horse than I was a week ago. I'll be there when the chips are down. We already know Bob is a fighter, so let Gustin come!"

"That sounds good, Tom, but we would rather avoid trouble. It isn't very pleasant shooting a man, and it is even worse to be shot. Remember to make your shots count. That is more important than shooting fast."

Emerson then spoke to Cathy and Maria. "Girls, I was serious about you being armed. Do you have any weapons?"

"Dad gave me his rifle when we left," Cathy responded. "I'll dig it out of the chuck wagon tonight. If I have to, I can shoot. Ask Bob."

"I believe you! I haven't seen any man, woman, or child from Texas that can't," Emerson laughed. "Maria do you have a rifle?"

Maria answered, "Dad just gave me one. I don't really want to use it, but I'll be ready if it's needed. Do you think we will have trouble?"

"Maria, I hope not, but we must be ready for it. I want you girls to always ride close to another member of the crew. It also wouldn't hurt if you two laid a bit low. By that, I mean I'd rather it wasn't obvious we have two lovely girls with us."

"Listen to this guy!" It was Cathy. "I didn't think our feminine charms were too apparent these days, but I'll start keeping my hair under my hat. Do we have to stay real close to you, Mr. Trask? I may enjoy this!"

"You are something," Emerson laughed. "Of course, that would be my first choice, but I may not be available all the time. Stay near someone, and that's a good idea about your hair."

Billy listened to Emerson as he explained his concerns. "I was thinking along the same lines, Emerson. They are two of the prettiest and nicest girls I've ever come across. I know how you feel and I'll be ready. Didn't I see Maria giving you a big kiss today? I guess she doesn't hate you so bad after all."

Emerson colored. "Billy, if you paid as much attention to your own business as you do to everyone else's, you'd be a millionaire by now. That was just an expression of gratitude."

"In that case," Billy smiled, "I'm sure going to try to get that girl in my debt. That's better payment than gold."

The following morning Emerson was pleased to see the girls rode with their hair tucked under their hats, although he knew a person would have to be a fair distance away to mistake them for men. Those two were very much female.

The herd had settled into a routine and the drive was going well. Emerson was confident that if he could get past Gustin the drive would succeed.

It was about an hour before Emerson expected to reach the night's campground when Tom Gordon rode up to him. "Emerson, it's probably okay, but I wanted to be sure you knew. The girls headed off to catch Pedro. They said the herd was going good and they were going to surprise everyone with something to eat besides beans. Do you think they will be all right?"

Emerson was immediately annoyed. They probably would have no problems, but they had gone alone! How could he be certain?

"Tom, I think we'll ride on ahead and catch them. This is exactly what I did not want them to do, regardless of the reason."

Emerson took off at a fast trot with Tom close behind. In twenty minutes of hard riding they found where Pedro had set up camp and the girls' horses were there. Still a half mile distant, Emerson felt relief. He would give them the lecture of their lives!

Tom called to him and Emerson looked his way. Tom was pointing to a break in the rocks near the base of a mountain. Emerging from the opening were four armed men. They were headed for the camp and were about the same distance away from it as Emerson and Tom.

Emerson opened his gelding up and Tom followed suit. The two pulled into camp just ahead of the small group of armed men. Emerson dismounted and walked to the fire and stood facing the approaching riders. Tom came up on Emerson's left.

As the four got close they stopped their mounts and sat looking the situation over. Emerson knew the leader had to be Gustin. He was a big man, in his forties with a surprisingly friendly smile. To his right was a Mexican, dressed in black and silver. Long hair flowed from under his hat. He didn't bother to try a smile and showed contempt as he faced Tom and Emerson.

The other two had to be Miller and Tuleya. Emerson had heard descriptions of the two. Miller was a slight man, blonde to point of almost being an albino. He wore a mustache as light as the rest of his hair. He was around thirty and was one of those people that always seemed nervous and on edge. Tuleya was dark in complexion and hair. He was much larger than Miller and looked almost jovial. Emerson knew that he was anything but that, and regarded the group closely.

The four men dismounted and walked to the fire, stopping across from Emerson and Tom. It was at this time the two girls emerged from the small tent Pedro had placed for them by the chuck wagon.

They had seen Tom and Emerson ride up and knew they were in for a dressing down, but both felt justified in their actions. It began when Maria thought it would be nice to cook a 'real meal', as she called it She then persuaded Cathy. "This is our last chance to have a decent meal," Maria had told Cathy. "We are safe enough today. The real danger starts tomorrow. Think how much everyone will appreciate a good meal."​