Across the Years pages 91-105

PART II
OUR HOMESTEAD ON SHIRLEY CREEK
The wind continued to blow and the sand drifted. The young man came as usual for his grocery order. I was deeply interested in a new book and my sister intent on learning a new piece of music, therefore, we did not go to the door. Mother gave him the order. Finally, he asked where the girls were. Hearing his remark, my sister went out. They talked for some minutes and then he went on his way. We spent most of the day indoors for it wasn’t very pleasant to be out, especially if one was not used to Idaho’s dust storms. The days that followed were extremely nice, as though nature was trying to make amends. As one fellow said, “There are days when I wonder why we ever took this land from the Indians. Then on nice days I can readily see why.” Thus the days went by and summer came. We were beginning to get used to this climate and to appreciate it more. July 3, 1912 arrived. That night a party was given in our honor at the home of this young man by his mother. A neighbor boy had been invited also, so he went with my sister and I. It was a lovely quiet summer night. The frogs from the wayside ditches tried to drown out any conversation we might be having as we walked along. When we came in view of the home. Some of the young people had already arrived and were out in the front yard. We were soon introduced and everyone went indoors.
Here sat the young man who took the grocery orders and another nice looking young man. Both arose and came forward. The young man in question introduced his friend, “I want you to meet James Throckmorton, a young man from Iowa.” My heart sorta slipped. I thought, “another Jim,” at the same time he said, “But everyone calls me Jim.”
The evening was spent in playing the piano, singing, and playing various games. Late in the evening the lady of the house served refreshments. After enjoying these everyone was saying good-bye and shaking hands in a jolly mood. I passed the refreshment table to
thank the hostess for a lovely evening. Mr. Throckmorton was standing close as I passed. He reached out to shake my hands and asked me if I would like to go to Blue Lakes tomorrow. His friend and his girlfriend were going and he thought it would be a nice trip. I agreed and said I thought I could go but I would have to ask my parents. Somewhat silent on the way home I was thinking what if my folks objected. I was supposed to be up early the next morning and ready for the train trip to Twin Falls. The young man walking between us sensed my quietness and began kidding me. I took the kidding all in good humor, but I was a bit worried. The young men I had gone with before had always been to our home first and properly introduced to my parents. When this young man left us at the door and bid us good-night, he called back, “Just be brave, you’ll make the grade.” I laughed and said, “O.K.”

Quietly we opened the door and walked in. My folks, whom I thought were asleep, were far from it. They asked if we enjoyed the party. We said we did. My sister went to bed while I began trying to explain about the trip I was to go on the next morning by saying, “You know the young man who takes the grocery orders? Well, he and his girlfriend, that you and I know real well, are going to Twin Falls and Blue Lakes early tomorrow. I met a young man at the party by the name of Jim,” but before I could get the Throckmorton out, my father said, “Jim how many?” Then I told him the last name. I said he seems like a very nice young man. He wants me to go with him. The four of us would go on the train for a Fourth of July trip. My mother said she thought it would be alright. It sounds like you will be in good company. My father agreed to that and added, “We’ve never met this young man.” “No,” I replied, “but my brother has. About this time my brother spoke up and said he had met him. He thought he was an exceptionally nice fellow. Then he said, “Let’s all get some sleep.” I went to bed feeling good that everything was settled. I didn’t sleep even though I knew I had to be up early and ready to go. I tried not to wake my sister for she would do as she had done so often, poke me in the ribs and tell me to go to sleep. I lay there, trying not to move or turn, wondering just what the trip would be like. I didn’t have to wonder long for somewhere in the distance I heard a rooster crow. I wondered if it was day break or midnight. Surely it was past midnight. Then a dog’s lusty bark broke the stillness. I could see faint rays of light. It was early morning. My sister’s snoring and the far away bark of the dog seemed to lu1l me to sleep. Thus my worries were over. Suddenly I felt a hand on my shoulder and someone whispered in my ear that it was time to get up. It was mother. She had arisen early and prepared my breakfast. She was going to assist me in getting off on my trip. I quietly got up so as not to awaken my sister, slipped on a house coat, and went to breakfast. By the time I had washed, dressed, and arranged my hair nicely, a knock came on the door. I opened it, and stepped out. Jim wanted to know if I could go. I said I was ready. Then he held out his arm and motioned. I took a hold and we were off. There were a number of folks at the depot. One young man in particular edged over to where we were and said to Jim, “I’d like to meet your girl friend.” As I was made acquainted, the other young couple walked up that we were to go with. The train was a bit late, but we were having a good time talking. Finally it pulled in and stopped. The conductor went into the station. All of us went aboard and took our seats. Jim raised our window. The train moved out. There was nothing pretty about the countryside on the beginning of the trip. Mostly sage brush and desert, but the clean cool fresh air that came in the window made up for the scenery. It was a fascinating trip: For Jim was so attentive to me trying to explain each little detail about the country. He had come to this part of the country one year before on April 1, 1911 from his home at Derby, Iowa.
It took some time for the train to get to Twin Falls. The depot was somewhat larger than the one at Rupert. And the town much larger. There were many lovely homes and a pretty country side. The four of us went looking for a cafe. We soon found a very nice small country place that was clean and well kept. Here the four of sat at one table. And made the mistake of ordering fried chicken. We sat for an indefinite length of time. It seemed almost an hour. Maybe it just seemed long because we were talking, laughing, and wondering what could have happened. Surely we thought they must have had to go to some farmer, buy the chicken, then dress and frying them. And in the meantime working up quite an appetite. When they finally brought the dinner, it was exceptionally good. As one fellow said, by that time most anything would have tasted good. We hurried through it for time was slipping away. We then headed for a livery stable to hire a team and carriage for the trip to Blue Lakes.
It was a warm ride except for a cool breeze. Soon we were driving down into the canyon where the lakes were. They were very pretty with a bluish color. And much cooler in the canyon. To our surprise there was a cherry orchard set in among the rocks. Here was a quiet calmness. As we strolled around the lake, I thought how nice it would be to have a home here away from the hot winds and the glare of the desert. But only a small place, and already in another’s posession. We were not there long when others seemed to seek out its Inviting coolness and looking for a place to rest, relax, and perhaps enjoy a picnic lunch. After walking around awhile we decided there were other places of interest. So back we went to the carriage and drove away.
The boys thought it would be nice to visit Shoshone Falls. So started out in that direction. The trip was rather hot and dusty, but it was worth it for the Falls were very pretty. We walked around quite awhile, then stood just watching the huge body of water go over the Falls. Then descended the long steep steps to the valley below the Falls. I had walked up an ddown the steps at Oregon city, Oregon and Council Crest, a summer resort near Portland on numerous occasions, but these steps were much steeper. I was no used to this high altitude and the trip back up tired me. Being tired was something that never bothered me before for I was always on the go, running, jumping, and sailing up the long flights of stairs two at a time at home. The sun was hot but the mist from the Falls were cooling to our sun-scorched faces. We were enjoying this part of it very much. Other people had gathered for a picnic or just sight seeing.
Consulting his watch, Jim thought we had better start back so as not to miss our train. The team, quite sweaty with dust sticking to their hair, were more than anxious to be on the go. Taking hold of the reins, Jim tapped each with the buggy whip. This seemed unnecessary for the horses took off on a trot over the winding road back to Twin Falls. We laughed and talked of the never to be forgotten Fourth of July in the year 1912 and thought it had been quite a day.
As we ddrove the team back to the livery stable, the man came out to take the team. As we got out of the carriage said, ‘You young folks have a good time I reckon.” “Yes,” we replied, “sure did and thanks a lot.” Of course the boys paid for the hire of the team for that was the man’s business.
We didn’t have long to wait at the depot when the train whistled and clanged the bell, and the huge engine puffed into the depot. Here we went aboard for that homeward bound trip. We were not he only young folks. There were others like ourselves out for some Fourth of July fun that year of 1912. all were laughing and talking. They seemed to have a great amount of fun. The conductor calling all aboard. The train started with a jerk. This started some of the young folks giggling all over again. It was like dropping a ruler in school everyone laughs. Once again the miles seemed to vanish as the train made its way across that long piece of desert waste land. It seemed to me after living in a city like Prtland, Oregon.
By late afternoon, back again in that small western town of Rupert, Idaho. Jim took my arm. I stepped from the train. Thys we left the depot and the many Fourth of July fun seekers with only a few blacks to where we lived. The walk soon over. We talked of the trip and activities of the day. Mother came to the door an dinvited Jim in but he said he’d better go on. He had chores to do. He was farming and kept some stock where he boarded.
Mother was preparing the evening meal when I went in. her first words were, “when I saw you walk away towards the depot I thought he’ll never do for Annie. He isn’t tall and slim enough. He’s most too heavy set.” He was somewhat heavy and did not look his height, which was 5 feet 11 ½ inches.
I Changed into a house dress and busied myself with helping y setting the table.

My sister had gone with other young folks to Burley which wasn’t much larger than Rupert. She did not arrive back until after I did. But was full of fun about the doings of the day. Immediately she sat down to the piano. to play some of her new pieces of music and soon we were both singing. And still at it when mother announced we should eat. It was a nice meal. Mother had fixed a bit special. She thought the young man might eat with us. Not long after the table had been cleared away, there was a knock. And my friend with his nice horse and buggy wanting to take me for a drive around town. It was decided we’d attend a movie first. Those were the days of the silent films. I don’t remember the show now except it was a love scene with a lovely country lane, fields, woods and streams. Those were the kind I liked best.
Afterwards we went to an ice cream parlor. And had a dish of ice cream each. Then a short drive. The night air cool and refreshing with a big moon just coming up from behind the mountain peaks as we arrived home. From the light that shone thru the window, I knew Mother was waiting up for me. My young man jumped from the buggy to assist me. He asked, as he escorted me to the door, when he could see me again or if he could take me to church on Sunday. I agreed to church. He grasped my hand firmly and we said goodnight. I slipped in through the partly open door as Jim pulled on the reins and with a tap of the whip he was gone. The shiny paint from the buggy wheels glistened in the moonlight. My mother sat waiting for me. An open Bible on the table showed. She had been reading and meditating while waiting. The rest of the household was asleep. Mother turned to me saying, “Did you have a nice time?” “Very,” I replied. Looking back as I started for the bedroom, I said, “He’s an exceptionally fine young man.” Mother smiled and nodded a good night.
Donning my night dress, I crept quietly into bed, hoping not to awaken my sister. But she was awake and the hours rolled by as we lay there talking. Our minds were drifting. Once again of our home the scenes so vivid. My sister was talking of Sidney. She had given
up her sweetheart in a rash moment, and wished that time could be turned back, so she could live those days over. She wondered where he was and if he were married. I said, “most likely. Once in everyone’s life there’s a regret, but you’ll get over it. It’s just because we are in this strange country. Things will be different, you’ll see.” There was a sadness there that I’ve never forgotten. We had both had a full busy day. Midnight had rolled around and dawn was coming up as we drifted off into dreamland. The talks between us that night were lasting. Years have not erased.

We were both awakened by the clattering of dishes. My mother and sister-in-law were talking in the kitchen while getting breakfast. Father and brother had dressed and gone outside to feed and harness the horses. At that moment little Mary had gotten out of bed and stood in the middle of the floor in her pajamas. She was clutching her Eskimo doll in one arm and her teddy bear in the other. And had evidently taken the teddy bear from her brother for he was putting up quite a fuss about it. When finally she went back and said, “You can have it. I didn’t want it anyway,” the tears subsided and all was calm.
After breakfast my sister played and sang several of the pretty songs. Sidney had loved and watched with admiring glances as she played. She had a lovely voice and an exceptionally nice touch while playing the piano.
Later I saw her admiring his picture. I said, “Why don’t you write. Maybe he isn’t married.” He had written her the last three letters. “Oh!” she said, “He’s surely married since he’s so nice looking.” A handsome fellow, with dark brown hair and eyes and the tan of a summer sun complexion. And all of six feet tall. A university graduate. Finally turning to me quickly and in a soft low voice, said ‘Do you really think I should write?” Then turning away said in a faraway voice, “what’s done is done. I’ll not write.” I’ve always believed there are times in ones life when we’d like to turn life’s pages back, but see the uselessness of it.
We went to town in the afternoon just to look around and pass the time away. Father and brother had gone to the ranch with another load of lumber and other things. He had coaxed mother to go along but she said she’d wait until the home to be was nearer finished. Days went by and at times they seemed to go too fast. My young man Jim came Saturday evening and took me for a drive and to the show. It was a nice drive. Idaho as always cool and pleasant after a hot summer sun had set behind the distant hills. For I had at times watched the sun disappear after a long day and enjoy it so much. In this country it seemed more beautiful than ever. As a child that gold ball had a fascination for me. Mother used to call and say, “Come now, supper is ready.” Even though, like a child, I was hungry as usual, and mother’s suppers always something delicious, I’d say, “Just a little while, just a little while.” When the last rays of the sun had flickered away, I’d go in and take my place at the table. Mother would get down the coal oil lamps and light them. How bright they seemed compared to the darkness outside.
I was no longer a child now, but still the fascination lingered on. My young man seemed to enjoy this along with me or maybe he was making believe, as we returned home from the show. He gave my hand an extra squeeze and we said good-night.
When I went in everyone was asleep so I quietly retired. Soon I too was fast asleep. But I had not slept long until dogs began to bark and a noise like a wagon driving into the yard was heard. Mother was soon up and turned on the light. She knew immediately what it was. She always seemed to have a way of knowing things ahead of time. It was the men folks returning from the ranch. My sister-in-law also arose. She and mother prepared a lunch for the men before retiring. I heard my father say just before I drifted off again “If building of the house was all-,that would be fine, but there is still the fencing of the land, post to ‘be gotten from the hills, and wire to be bought.” A lawfull fence was five wires with fence posts ever so often.
It was somewhat later the next morning before anyone awoke.M sister and I though attended Sunday school and church. When we arrived, horses, wagons and buggies were parked all around the church. They were starting to sing when we walked in. I looked back as we went in the door and there in the distance was Jim’s horse and buggy. The mare was a beautiful animal. She had tracked in Iowa and other mid-west states. And was of Hamiltonian breed. The buggy glistened in the sun as though Jim had spent some time polishing it.
My sister and I took a seat, beside two of our girlfriends. And there was so much to talk about what had happened during the week that we just had to whisper some when the teacher, my young man Jim, wasn’t looking. He almost caught us once when he asked us a question. As luck would have it, I was listening and answered it. After Sunday school all of us went up to sing in the choir. A quiet, nice summer morning. The minister’s sermon was inspiring and filled with words that gave one something to live on through the week. Jim stood between my sister and I as the closing hymn was sung. He had a good high voice, which I couldn’t help but notice. It blended so well with my sister’s and mine for my sister and I had sung so often together by request at church, parties and so forth. At the close of the service Jim drove his horse and buggy up a little closer and assisted us in. One little pull on the reins and we were off. My mother had dinner ready so we all went in and ate. Father asked Jim to return thanks. It was a good prayer of thanks. I tried to remember it and succeeded somewhat.
In the afternoon we went for a drive. And that evening Jim took us to church again. The services were nice for I always enjoyed church activities.
After services we stopped at an ice cream shop. A little wooden building on the west side of the square in Rupert. Run by some friends of Jim’s. Here we had a dish of delicious homemade ice cream. (There wasn’t much to Rupert in 1912. It was a pretty new country.)
Upon arriving home we just sat and talked for awhile. Mother came out and invited us in. Jim said he thought he’d better be going as he had a lot to do the next day. My sister went in the house. But Jim and I continued to talk and time seemed to vanish. There was a quiet stillness in the air except for the frogs from the irrigation ditches. More like an invisible melody or a scrap of a tune hovering in the air. Now and again a faraway bark of a dog or the call of a night bird. Life was somewhat beautiful at that moment.
During the next few weeks Jim and I saw much of each other. He’d ride his pretty horse or mare and lead her beautiful colt. I named Billy Fortune. He wanted to show me how he was breaking the colt to lead and get used to the rope and halter. The colt was from racing blood like his mother.
The following Sunday my mother invited Jim and the young man, who was a son of the couple Jim boarded with, over for dinner. So I baked a cake on Saturday. After church when the four of us arrived, mother had everything ready except setting the table. Idid this while sister entertained the young men.
When finally mother said, “Let’s sit down.” Father took his place at the head of the table. Chicken was the menu with nice fresh garden vegetables and a crisp salad. After thanks was returned by Jim, the food was passed around the table. A most enjoyable occasion. Much visiting and talking went on. Especially directed at father in regards to the ranch and home he was erecting there for his family. They were still talking along those lines as we arose and left the table at the completion of the meal. My sister and I cleared away the table, washed and put away the dishes. After this was over Jim and I went for a ride. As we got in the buggy and started off, I could hear my sister playing the piano and singing with the young man accompanying her.
It was a nice sunny afternoon not a cloud in the sky. And almost a bit too warm for it was mid-summer. The birds sang and chirped. The meadow larks whistled. Jim could imitate them perfectly and did so as we drove along. Soon we came to the river. So drove down by it. Jim said, “I am going to drive out in it.” I said, “You hadn’t better.” He said, “Oh, just on the edge.” “No farther,” I told him. Beauty was very hesitant. She didn’t want to go in the water, but she obeyed the voice that cowed her on. She no sooner got her feet in it when she headed for the shore. “I think she knows better than we do about this old muddy Snake River,” I said. “Do you think so?” asked Jim trying to keep her in the water awhile longer. 1 said, “If you drive out any farther, I’ll get out.” He replied, “Look what you’ll get out in.” “I can take my shoes off,” I told him. By that time Beauty had her front feet on the bank. And by the way she sped out of there 1 don’t think she intended getting back in. Then Jim laughed and said, “I just wanted to tease. I let Beauty have her head.” Beauty got out of there so fast when we were back again on the road I laughed and said, “Let’s go home. My folks will wonder where we are.” He said that was where we are going and Beauty started off on a trot. And Jim asked if I wanted to see how fast she could go. And she really took off. I had witnessed lots of races but that little mare was traveling faster than most any I had seen. Maybe it seemed so because Iwas in the buggy. I had seen racing horses, hitched to sulkys, or small two wheel carts, but had never ridden in one on the tracks. I had only ridden horseback. When we drove in the yard my father immediately noticed that Beauty’s feet were muddy to the knees. “Was the horse blind too?” he asked. He figured .we were. He said, “You know that’s pretty dangerous along that river in some places”. “Yes, I know”, replied Jim “but I knew it was safe where we drove in.” He got out of the buggy and helped me out. He said he had to get home and get his chores done. And would be back later and take me to church.
When he came mother had him eat some cake, ice cream and fruit with us before we went. When we went in church, we were asked to sing in the choir. They needed extra singers. The choir was a nice place to be, since you could see everyone that came in. Soon my sister came in with the young man. They too came up in the choir. And sat behind us. Finally my brother and sister-in-law came in. We did not go for a drive that night after church. Neither did we sit and talk very long. Jim had to mow hay the next day. This was the second cutting. He had to get up early to get the sickles sharpened. We said good-night, but he continued to hold my hand as we stood near the door saying good-night for the third or fourth time.
The next Wednesday night when we saw each other, the folks he boarded with said, “That surely was a case of love at first sight.” Jim asked me what I thought. I replied; “I’ve heard of love at first sight, but I think young people should be friends for quite awhile. Then they should be good friends for some time before talking of love. I really think one should get to know each other, some of their faults, some of their failures, and some of their good points as well. They should be thoroughly satisfied that they are the one and only that they would want to spend the rest of their life with. Health and character are very important, especially if one is to look ahead to the future to the family they plan to have and raise. In fact, I think one should use their brains if they have any as well as their heart. One seldom goes wrong in picking a good Christian with good character and good health. I always told my folks if I should marry I would want good healthy children if possible for I had seen so many that were not.” When I had finished he said, “Well you know that’s the way I’ve been raised and that’s the way I believe. Since we both feel the same way, we should get along fine.” 1agreed to that. We had been driving south in the moonlight as we talked and there is no perfume sweeter than the new mown hay. The hay in the fields along side the road had been mowed that morning.
Finally when he turned to go east, I thought he was turning around to start back to town. After he had gone some distance 1said, “where are you taking me?” He replied, “Just for a drive. You aren’t afraid?.” “No I replied”, only I am not used to being alone with a
young man I do not know very well this far out in the country.” It wasn’t very far out. It only seemed that way. He turned north and headed back to Rupert. Then he told me we’d soon be home. When we drove into the yard, I hurriedly got out of the buggy saying good-night as I did so. I was afraid my folks would get after me for being gone so long. When I looked back, Jim was following me to the door. As I was about to put my hand on the knob, he said, “I haven’t said good-night to you yet.” I stood for a moment waiting. He grabbed my hand saying, “You seem to be afraid of me. Was it the drive?” “No,” I returned, “only my folks do not like me out so late.” I grabbed again for the knob. “Wait,” he said, “When can I see you again?” “Oh! most anytime.” This time I turned the knob and went into the house and my young man drove away.
Mother was waiting up for me. “You are a bit late, don’t you think?” she said. “Maybe,” I replied, “We drove a little farther than we figured tonight.” “Just be careful,” .she added. “He seems like a fine young man but you do not know him too well yet. I said, Oh, he’s a gentleman, mother. He couldn’t be nicer I am sure.” With this we went to bed.
The next morning father and mother packed extra things in preparation for the move about two or three weeks hence into the big wagon and were off on that fifty mile trip to the ranch. This was a trip mother would enjoy for she was somewhat of a pioneer in spirit. My sister and I went shopping that morning just for something to do. We went in this store and that. But didn’t find anything we wanted to buy. How different these stores were from the large department stores we knew in Portland. We missed the music store where one could buy the latest hits in songs as soon as they were out. Also missed the large beautiful parks we could stroll in.
We were beginning though to like the new country we had come to. The dust storms were less frequent for they came mostly in the spring and late fall. We would be to the ranch by then. And just wondering what the ranch would be like. Mother would tell us more
about it when she returned. Being young in experience knew very little of ranching except what we had gained through living on the eighty acres at home. And knew little of that for father worked for big companies and hired everything done. This would be an adventure we’d have to learn about. We knew there would be no modern conveniences in this ranch home located in a. small valley by a gurgling mountain stream. We loved the luxurious home we had been raised in until we got the western fever. When finally. we
headed for that mile upon mile of wide open plain country with howling blizzards, dust storms, and the night broken by the weird cry of the coyote. With his shrill, piercing cry, one would think he was only a few feet away. I had walked across the cactus and gravel
covered hills in Montana to my sister and. brother-in-laws ranch Just below their ranch was the quiet flowing Milk river. I loved those walks. The air you inhaled seemed to make one feel good right to the very end of your toes. The prairie dogs chattered and scurried away as we trespassed over their land which seemed fit only for grazing stock. The magpies too mocked and made fun in their chattering way. I was only sixteen then but life was never more beautiful. Now I “was beginning to experience a little of that beauty again since I had met Jim. (My fourth Jim.) I was older now and a little more on the settled side. It seemed Jim and I were meant for each other. He wanted to be with me as often as he could. And I too liked having him around. Life was sweet and love had crept in unbeknowing to either of us. And knew we liked being in each other’s company. I thought so often of all the nice young men I had met and gone with. I liked them just while being in their company. When we were apart, they meant nothing. I cared little whether they came or didn’t. I know now that wasn’t love. It was only the fun of being together and the good time that went with it.
I now had the feeling I was drifting into something more serious than I had gotten into before. Keeping this all to myself, I went along through the weeks that followed trying to think nothing of it. Jim continued to come more often than ever. And when he thought he was coming too often, he’d think of an excuse for coming. Soon my folks began to notice. And when they’d ask questions, 1’d say he just liked to show me his pretty colt and how he’s training him, or that he just likes to come. So thus the days passed.
And the day came when we were packed and ready to go to our new home. That day dawned brightly. And all were all astir, getting the last of the load. The piano the hardest to load. My father climbed upon the wagon seat. The horses leaned into the collar as though the wagon was loaded a bit heavy. Once out on the road they got into a jog or slow trot.
Jim came with his white top, called a spring wagon, and loaded in the suitcases. He had a lively team and made short work in catching up with my father. So mother rode with us.
We traveled slowly for some time until my father waved us on. Cupping his hands to his mouth he said it would be dark before we could get there. And soon we left the project behind. After crossing the Snake River bridge. My father had traveled this road many times with loads of lumber. We were headed for Raft River and a vast flat desert of grease wood and sage brush. Raft River a small stream running through this valley. Willows grew along its bank. The river now quite low this time of the year since the water was being used for irrigating.
We watched for mirages that appeared frequently in the glimmering sun of the desert. And it was past noon when we pulled up to camp at Raft River, and unhitched the horses. Jim watered and fed them. Mother got out our basket of lunch and my sister and I spread
a blanket and then a table cloth. Mother put the basket on this. Then began to unwrap and pass out sandwiches and pickles. Jim had brought along a jug of cold milk. This was a welcome treat with pie and cake. We enjoyed the lunch for we hadn’t eaten since early morning. After clearing things away, my sister and I took a walk along the river bank among the willows waving and growing there. We hunted for pretty pebbles and rocks that had been left on the bank when the water was high. Stooping here and there picking them up. I longed to take off my shoes and go wading. This small river reminded me of a small river many miles away.
When we returned the horses were hitched. Mother was sitting comfortably in the back seat of the wagon. Jim helped us both in with the September sun beating down hotter than ever. If we thought the long morning trip was tiring, this was doubly so for the sun began to blister our faces that were used to a damper climate. The alkali wind bit and stung, but still we laughed and chatted. We watched the desert mirages mile after mile. Ground squirrels that had their holes too close to the road scurried away. Jack rabbits by the dozens bounded over the ground through the clumps of sage brush. Herds of grazing cattle stopped their incessant eating to gaze at the passersby. Jim explained that few cattle were in the valley this time of the year. Most of them were in the hills along streams and mountain sides where there was more feed. The dead June grass made sores in the cattle’s mouths.
So far no one had passed us. The field glasses Jim had brought along came handy to gaze at the distant hills with clumps of trees where the snow laid longest in the spring time. Once or twice I turned the glasses on the long trail over which we had come. I hoped to get some little glimpse of my father with his team and loaded wagon. This was something I shouldn’t expect for we had been trotting right along. Our team was now showing signs of it. Their coats were covered with sweat and flecked with dust, but Jim urged them on for it was getting late. The sun too showed evening was approaching. Jim took out his watch every so often and kept us posted as to the time. I sat in front with him. He would let me drive once in awhile.
Finally we saw several wagons and teams in the distance on other roads. Perhaps the roads led to some cabin on the mountain side where there was a ranch, a spring, a small stream of water, a clump of trees or perhaps an orchard of fruit trees in a small valley that derived water from snow that laid long after all other was melted. Homesteaders who built cabins in the flats. Thought they would try their luck. We were nearing the foothills now with the sun disappearing faster and faster. Jim crowded the weary horses on for night comes fast in the hills. Finally we thought we heard water running. There it was gurgling away. A cool dampness arose from the valley below. Such a relief for our scorched and sunburned faces and hands. The
sun vanished and twilight was our light and darkness gathered. The moon would not rise until later, but we continued on over the winding valley road.
Soon now to the first gate. A western style barb wire gate. Jim got down and opened it while I drove. Before getting in he took a lantern from the back of the wagon and lit it. This he hung on the side of the wagon because the valley was an inky blackness. Before long there was another of those western gates. Soon through this and on our last lap of the trip. I began to become afraid. We were not used to this. I wondered where we were and what kind of a place this was. Here we were city girls that had been raised in a closely settled country all our life. Was this to be our home?
The little creek called Shirley Creek was undisturbed and ‘Continued madly on its way. In fact it was music to our ears for it was the only noise that broke the stillness of that lonely dark canyon except for the ceaseless singing of the frogs. And so dreary in the darkness. Finally the house loomed into view. We were home at last after a dry hot fifty mile drive with a team and wagon when Jim said “ho” the horses seemed to stop dead in their tracks. They seemed as glad as we for the journey’s end. Jim jumped down and assisted mother out. He handed her the lantern, then helping us out. We began to cry, Jim tried to comfort us by telling us to wait until morning things would 1ook better. Somewhere off on a hillside a weird cry arose from the throat of a coyote as though he too were trying to serenade us at that lonely moment.
I helped Jim to unhitch the horses and take them to the creek for water. Mother had the lights lit and we had the lantern to find our way to the creek. As we fed the horses we both seemed to look up at the same time to see a large ball of gold just coming up over the top of a distant peak. Here we stood hand in hand, enthralled at this sight before our eyes. As the moon slowly rose from behind the mountain top. I called my sister and mother to witness this beautiful sight. At that same moment a coyote seemed to be enjoying this also for he began baying in his crooning way.
Turning away mother said, “Come now. We’ll eat some supper.” With a fire going she had prepared some mea,t fried potatoes with peaches and a cake she had baked before we left Rupert. Never had had food tasted so good. The long trip and cool of the mountain night air had given us an appetite. Mother though seemed worried. We could sense it. She said she had the feeling something might have happened for down that long trail we had just come over was a man alone With a team and loaded wagon plodding along at a slow pace. Mother prepared the downstairs bedroom for Jim. My sister and I took the upstairs east bedroom. The west bedroom was for my parents Everything was so strange that I could not go to sleep while mother kept vigil downstairs as she always did in cases of this kind.