In My Life

As he listened to Miguel, Emerson saw what a simple, but effective plan Taylor had devised. The only flaw would be an alternate route to Santa Fe. "Isn't there some other trail? Didn't the old timers have another drive they could make, or is my memory off?"

"Pat Casey put a trail herd on the Benson Trail, as it was known, last year when Taylor closed Blanco. Three men were killed and almost four hundred head run off before they were half way to Santa Fe. Lack of water was a serious problem, but Pat felt they were overcoming that."

" Then one morning Bob Gustin and his gang of cutthroats rode into camp and told Casey they wanted to cut his herd for strays . Of course Pat would have none of that since Gustin owned no cattle to begin with. It was simple robbery. Gustin and his men rode out, but that night they hit the herd. Between the stampede and the gunplay, Casey was lucky to bring as many men back as he did. No one has had the nerve to try it again."

Emerson knew that Pat Casey would not have given up easily. It must have been some fight! Could Taylor pull this off so simply? This was why Emerson had been sent back home by his uncle. He was expected to help, but how?

Emerson spent the next two days riding the range. There were about ten ranches in a large oval basin. Blanco Pass could be seen from most locations in the basin, sitting between two mountains on the west. Travel to the south was rare with rough country and dessert extending for hundreds of miles. To the east was a mountain range, eliminating any chance of cattle traveling that way. The old Benson Trail wound its way through the broken country to the North. Lack of water and the presence of riffraff made this an unattractive route.

There was water and good graze in the basin, as long as it was controlled properly. Everywhere Emerson rode, however, he saw the signs of overgrazing. It could be a very difficult winter if the ranchers didn't trim their herds.

Emerson considered the situation. The ranches in the basin were mostly family operations. People with children and other responsibilities were usually reluctant to gamble, especially when it could endanger their families. These people had built to last and deserved the opportunity to peacefully pursue their interests. He had learned that men still had to be prepared to fight to keep what was theirs. How much would the ranchers be willing to risk?

He had seen Lazy T riders patrolling the boundaries with the other ranches. Occasionally, he came across a drift fence Taylor's men had put up. Obviously, Taylor did not want his lands overgrazed. The Lazy T was a well run operation, with hopes of expanding at the expense of its neighbors.

In the afternoon of the second day, Emerson found a small water hole, shared by Miguel and the KC. It had been walked in by numerous cattle that watered there, and was badly in need of a cleaning. This was the sort of chore hands rode miles to avoid. Emerson found a pick and shovel in the rocks nearby, left there for that very purpose.

Hard work had never frightened him, so he grabbed the tools and began cleaning the spring. As he worked he felt pleasure in the sun on his back, and the sweat the effort created. Emerson peeled off his shirt. His back and chest, already tanned from years at sea, glistened. Completely absorbed in his task, he never heard the two riders approach. As he turned to place a large rock to the side he realized he had spectators.

"Well, don't let us stop you. It sure is a pleasure to watch a man work!" It was Cathy Jordan speaking and she was enjoying Emerson's embarrassment as she looked at him with obvious approval.

The other rider was Maria. She sat her mare, looking from the cleaned water hole to the pile of debris he had just removed. Emerson was unable to read her expression, but Cathy Jordan seemed to understand his.

"It isn't very flattering, the way you glanced at me and stared at Maria, although I should be used to it. Don't forget she hates you, if that were possible. I never realized the sea put so much muscle on a man, not to mention a tan." Cathy was laughing now, as Maria colored at her words.

Emerson found himself laughing as well. This girl from Texas was direct! "And I never dreamed that life on a cattle ranch made girls so pretty. I've sailed to many ports and never saw anything to match this! You girls are the best."

Surprised, Maria looked down at Emerson. "Do you mean for a half-breed, as you used to call me?" She saw him wince and enjoyed it. At the same time, she thought how she never had been able to hurt him in their youth. What was the difference now?

"Maria, I said a lot of things I never meant, to a lot of people. For that I am sorry. What is past is gone. I can't change it, as much as I would like to. It will never happen again."

Maria sat her horse looking at Emerson. He had returned to Morgantown so different. Cleaning this water hole was something most riders would avoid. Emerson stood with perspiration trickling down his chest, and Maria realized she had never seen a better looking man. That fact caused her anger to return. It wasn't right that someone so miserable should seem so good. He spent much of his time making apologies for past behavior. Could he be so different now?

Turning her horse, Maria called back, "It seems that apologizing is very easy for you. Time will tell how sincere you are."

Cathy Jordan sat her horse, looking down at Emerson. "You two must have had some time of it when you were kids. She is always so nice to everyone else." With that she hurried off to catch up with Maria.

Cathy trotted along side Maria in silence for a half mile. Never at a loss for words, Cathy spoke as they slowed their mounts to a walk. "Your Emerson Trask sure seems to be the genuine article to me. Did you see how tanned and strong he is? He sure seems sweet on you!"

Maria swung around to face Cathy, an angry answer on her lips. As usual, Cathy's infectious smile caused Maria to soften.

"He is not my Emerson and having a tan and being strong doesn't mean he is a good person. We have never liked each other and we never will. Please don't bring him up again."

"Maria, I'm sorry, but I don't believe you. I have never seen you behave like this before. I've seen you cool to men, but not hostile. I think you are afraid of Emerson, and your feelings for him. I wonder what happened between the two of you?"

"He was very cruel and ridiculed me because of my Spanish ancestry. I certainly don't find that attractive!"

"Maria, I know you just looked at the same man I did. He is amazing! You never mentioned how great he looked. I can see how he could break hearts. How old were you when he left? Fourteen? It must have been terrible. If he were paying attention to me and suddenly left the country, I would be heart broken. I wouldn't make it a secret through. Everyone would know. Boys always tease the girls they like. They are too shy to admit how they feel. If he called you names, it was probably because he was in love with you."

Maria felt her eyes water as Cathy spoke. Looking straight ahead she simply replied, "He went too far if that were the case, which I doubt."

The two girls rode in silence for a time. Maria was thinking about what she had just seen. Emerson was doing a difficult job that would benefit her family as well as his. Cathy was right about how strong and tanned he was. Could the new Emerson be for real? Could he be trusted? Maria wondered what differences Emerson's return would cause in her life.

Maria admitted to herself that she had to make a real effort to not like Emerson. Her old emotions kept coming near the surface. If anything, it was worse because of Emerson's matured character. He had always been good looking. Now he was a powerful man with a quick smile and pleasant personality. Still, Maria had doubts. Could a man change that much?

Maria knew she would have to always remind herself of the terrible things he had said. She never again wanted to go through the misery and heartache she had suffered when Emerson left Morgantown.

She was very popular and had many suitors. Why did she feel such an attraction to a man that had broken her heart once. Thinking back, Maria remembered how young she had been, but age hadn't changed it. Just seeing Emerson caused her pain. At the same time, it thrilled her. She would have to be very careful to control her emotions around him.

That evening Emerson spoke to Miguel as they were having dinner. "I have been riding over the range and it is clear that this basin is overstocked. Since the pass is legally closed to us, I suggest we take the Benson Trail as soon as possible. I see no choice. The winter could be a real disaster. I propose we get as many other ranchers as possible to throw in with us and take one large herd. Also, I want to ramrod this venture."

Shorty looked at Emerson as he spoke, and turned to watch Miguel respond. Pedro still showed no emotion, while Ray Brown turned red and almost choked.

Miguel looked over at his wife. She sat very still. Turning to Emerson he replied, "What you are suggesting would be very dangerous. I don't know if anyone would join us, but I think some men would die."

"Miguel, I believe many would throw in with us, simply because they have no options left. That would give us a sizable force and a reasonable chance to succeed. Say the word and I'll start working on it tomorrow. You'll be able to take care of the ranch while we're gone."

"I know you mean no disrespect, but I could not remain here while others attempted this trip. We make this journey together!"

As Miguel spoke he reached over and squeezed his wife's hand. For her part, Molly Hernandez knew it had been decided and began to make her plans. She felt fear for her men, but would not add to their burden by questioning their decision.

"I'll start getting things together for the chuck wagon in the morning," was her only comment.

Ray Brown had heard enough. "Is everybody here crazy? We'd all get killed! You can just count us out."

Shorty had been quiet, but now he spoke. "Ray, I don't remember asking you to talk for me. You were happy enough when the work was easy and the food good. If you lack the sand, quit, but don't try to run my life. I wouldn't miss this trip for anything."

Brown stood up, his face swollen with rage. "You talk tough now but you'll change your tune when you're looking up Gustin's gun barrel! I'll have no part in this!" With that he stomped outside.

"Boss." It was Shorty again. "I'll miss that hombre about as much as I miss that boil I had last year. We're better off without him. He wasn't much of a worker."

Miguel had already dismissed Ray Brown's departure. "Shorty, tomorrow, we get ready for a quick round-up. We'll gather as many steers and older stuff as we can find in a hurry. Emerson, it's your show. Get as many ranches as you can to join us. Be sure to see Jordans, Caseys, Robinsons, and anyone else that's interested. Let's plan on leaving one week from tomorrow."

Daybreak saw a bustle of activity on the ranch. Shorty and Pedro began the many chores which needed to be done before the round-up could begin. Emerson's mother and Miguel prepared a list of provisions that would be needed and readied the old wagon that would serve as the chuck wagon on the drive.

Emerson saddled up after breakfast and headed for the KC, satisfied everyone on Miguel's MM would soon be prepared for the round-up. It was still early when he arrived at Casey's spread. Like Miguel's, it wasn't large but everything was kept in good shape. Flowers along the house were testimony to the female presence.

As Emerson approached Pat Casey stepped onto the porch and greeted him. "Hello, Emerson. Climb down and have a seat." With that Pat dropped into a chair on the porch and indicated another for his visitor.

Emerson brushed the dust from his clothes, climbed the steps, and took his place along side Pat Casey. Emerson realized Pat was waiting for him to speak, so he began. "Mr. Casey, you have some fine looking stock. In fact, I'd say you have too many. Your range is as sparse as Miguel's, and it could lead to a difficult winter."

"I'm afraid you got up awful early to ride all the way over here to tell me something I already know." Pat Casey wasn't one to beat around the bush. "I imagine there is more."

"Mr. Casey, the MM is going to spend a week gathering a trail herd to push over the Benson Trail to Santa Fe. We are asking you and the other ranchers shut off from the Blanco Pass to join us." As Emerson finished, he heard a gasp from the doorway and realized Maria had been listening. She stepped onto the porch and watched her father.

Maria had seen Emerson riding up and wondered what had prompted this early morning visit. Was he on business or was it social? If it was a social call, was he there to see her? She quickly checked her hair and smoothed her blouse with her hands.

Carmella had also seen Emerson's approach and watched her daughter quickly freshen up in the mirror. Maria saw her mother watching her. With no further word, Maria went to stand by the door to listen to the two men who were now seated on the porch.

Deep in thought, Pat Casey looked out over his range. Finally, he turned to Emerson. "You're biting off a lot. I tried it once, and failed. It's bothered me ever since, but I haven't done anything about it I don't know much about you, but you've got the right idea. With the right men it could be done, and there is really no choice. You and Miguel can count on the KC being ready to hit the trail, and this time we'll be ready for Gustin!"

Emerson realized he had been holding his breath, waiting for Pat Casey's reply. He was needed if this drive were to have any chance. "I'm glad you feel that way, sir. We'll try to hit the trail one week from tomorrow. I have to see the others today. With you in, I think they'll join."

"Just a minute!" It was Maria and both men could see the fire in her eyes. "Let me ask a few questions. Who will be in charge? What about Gustin's gang? They will know you're coming and be ready. How will you get by them? How many men will die?"

Watching her, Emerson marveled at her beauty and her logic. "Good questions, Maria. I'm ramrodding this trip. I'll handle Gustin when the time comes, and I realize he may be expecting us."

Maria strode over to where her father and Emerson were seated. It was obvious that she was not finished. She pointed at Emerson as she spoke to Pat Casey.

"Father, I think it would be a mistake to risk cattle and lives on this man. We don't know anything about him. He could be a friend of Taylor's, or in Gustin's gang. He doesn't even wear a gun! How can you trust him? Doesn't that sound easy, saying he will handle Gustin! Will he be there when the fighting starts, and will he be any help?"

"Maria, you are unfair!" It was Carmella Casey appearing on the porch. "We have known Emerson all his life. I trust him with everything we have. Your father has made his decision, and it was the only one he could make. Emerson, thank-you for coming here first. The KC will have a herd ready to leave in a week."

Maria was shocked. How could her mother back this man so completely? With a final glare at Emerson, she retreated into the house.

Pat Casey gave Emerson a big grin, "It sure isn't easy living with two women! Thinking isn't necessary for me anymore. They take care of that. Maybe you'd consider taking one off my hands."

"Sir, I'll take Mrs. Casey with me when I leave, as long as you're making the offer." With that both men broke into laughter, and Carmella Casey had to join them.

"I'm certain that wasn't what Pat meant," laughed Carmella. "He couldn't get by without me and he knows it.

Emerson thanked Pat Casey, mounted his horse and headed toward Jordan's ranch. As he rode, he wondered how sincere Maria's doubts of him were. He found himself smiling when he recalled Carmella Casey's strong defense of him. Pat Casey sure had his hands full.

At the same time, Maria and Carmella were discussing Emerson. "Mother, how can you speak so well of him?" demanded Maria. "You remember his father. You remember him. He hates Spanish people. You should hate him more than I do! What kind of stories did he feed you on the stage coach? What did he tell you?"

"Maria, your thinking is not worthy of you. He spoke of his years at sea and the places he has been. You would find him very interesting if you would only listen. He has become quite a young man."

"Your father has been thinking of another drive for some time, and I have been very worried. The failure of his first drive has been deviling him. He has no choice, but he has a far better chance with Emerson, and I want him to have that chance. Pat is a wonderful, strong man, but this trip will require more than that. Emerson can make the difference."

"What did Dad mean about Emerson taking one of us off his hands? He makes it sound like I'm some old maid he can't get rid of! Then Emerson said he would take you, and everyone laughed. My feelings don't seem to matter around here," Maria pouted.

"Maria, you are unusually sensitive when Emerson is around. If you are concerned about a good impression, I would suggest you don't slap his face too often. However, if he had thought your father was serious with that offer, he would have taken you with him when he left. I'm sure of that."

"I have reason to be sensitive! I remember all the terrible things he said to me. I'm certainly not worried about making a good impression on him." Maria then asked, "Why do you think he would want me after all the hard feelings between us?" She tried to sound casual, but Carmella sensed a strong interest.

"I saw you two at the stage. Sparks were flying. That doesn't happen between most people. I saw how he looked at you. Maria, that big fellow is helpless around you. I never realized it when he worked here all those years ago. His leaving must have been difficult for you."

"Right Mother. I didn't have anyone to insult and degrade me. I almost forgot how much I enjoyed that!"

"Then you also remember the wicked beating he took from Hogan to protect you. It seems to me that you would have difficulty questioning Emerson's courage, knowing what you do."

"You knew about that? Did Emerson tell you, trying to make himself look good?" Maria demanded.

"Of course not! He isn't the sort to talk himself up. It wasn't so hard to figure out. I never told your father about my suspicions," Carmella added. "I knew he would do something and probably get into trouble for it."

"We thought the same thing, or at least Emerson did. Dad would kill any man that bothered me. It was Dad's safety that kept us quiet."

"Then there should be no problem. I want your father to be as safe as possible on this drive. We could have lost him last time he tried. I happen to think Emerson is an extremely capable man and he will carry the burden. I want your father to save his pride, and this ranch, but mostly I want him alive."

Maria understood what her mother was saying and felt contrite. "You are right, of course. Dad would have tried it on his own, and he wouldn't have had much of a chance, not without a crew. Still, I can't get over how much stock you put in this man. You sound like Cathy Jordan. She just raves about him."

"Cathy doesn't have past experiences to influence her thinking. She sees a rugged, handsome young man. One that is well traveled and educated. I'm not surprised she raves about him," stated Carmella.

"I'll try to keep my opinions to myself and help father, but I am going to watch Mr. Trask like a hawk." Maria said determinedly.

Carmella Casey looked at her daughter and smiled. "Please do watch him, but with open eyes. That should be a pleasure."