Chapter 3: Adopted Relative) Now what I have to tell you is this. Ike had an adopted brother and he's still living. His name is Buck Cross and he and Ike met at the orphanage Ike was sent to. He and Ike were family to each other and I know he would want to meet you. He knows about you from Ike so you won't be a stranger to him. And I know he would want you and Daisy to live with him. Please tell me more about him, Emma. Well, the first thing you should know is that Buck is half Kiowa. His mother was Kiowa and his father was a white man that he never knew. Because of that he had a very hard time growing up in his village. When he was about twelve buffalo hunters killed his mother and took the girl he was to marry. After that he decided to leave and eventually he ended up at the orphanage where Ike was. How did they meet?; Rose asked. Ike was shunned by the other children because of his inability to talk and because he had no hair. And Buck was as well because of his Kiowa blood. One day they were in town with the sisters when these drunks attacked Buck because of his Kiowa blood. And Ike stepped in to help Buck fight them off. They were beaten up some but not seriously hurt, thank goodness. And after that they were inseparable. They became each other's family. And not long after they left the orphanage they joined the Express. And Teaspoon and the riders and I became like family to both of them. What is Buck like? He's kind and loving and he always tries to do what's right. Does what I told you help you to make your decision? Yes, it does. I want to meet Buck because if he was Ike's family, he's mine,too. Do you have a picture of him, Emma? Here it is, Rose. Buck lives in Rock Creek, Kansas. There's a stage that goes from here to Rock Creek. I have money for your fare and I want you to take it. Thank-you, Emma. Oh, it's the least I could do, Rose. We're family now. I know Buck will want to meet you and I want you to get there safely. When does it leave,Emma? In an hour,Rose. Then I'd better get going,then. Thanks for everything,Emma. I don't know what I would've done. Your welcome,Rose. Please write when you get there,Rose. We're family now. I will, Emma. Have a safe trip and give my love to everyone in Rock Creek. I will,Emma. And then Rose rode away and it wasn't long before she reached Sweetwater.