THE BORDER EAGLES
CHAPTER SEVEN
A NEW LOVE
Mexico City and rancho Tres Arboles, 22-23. December 1847
Colonel Reynolds called Rick into headquarters for a report on the visit.
"Captain Talon was able to treat Senor Duarte and observe him for the entire day. Senor Duarte was in good spirits all day and seems to have mostly recovered. The family was very grateful for our actions on their behalf and all members were very cordial and have extended offers of friendship, which I accepted. We had both midday and evening meals with them. Not only Captain Talon and myself but our men as well. I overheard Corporal Kearney commenting on how good the food was. I believe that they have started to make friends with the Vaqueros. We have been asked to visit them again."
"Very good, Major. I believe that you've done an excellent job. I will send your report to General Scott, himself. You have my permission to visit as often as your duties permit. Dismissed Major."
Rick wasn't able to visit that day. He was still a battalion commander and duties took up most of the day. Guerrilla activities had mostly ceased within thirty miles of the city but company and platoon size patrols still went out, The Mounted Rifles alternating with the regular and state dragoon units. Most of Rick's duties were making arrangements with the other battalion commanders. His executive officer and adjutant handled the routine personnel matters. One matter that took only an hour was to testify at the court martial of Dupree, Bates and Weaver. Corporal Kearney also testified. Their defense couldn't shake their testimony. The only thing he could do was beg the mercy of the court. The outcome was never really in doubt and General Worth, sitting as judge was not inclined to show mercy. All three were convicted of desertion and attempted robbery and Dupree with attempted assault on an officer. General Worth spoke.
"It is the judgement of this court these officers assembled, that all three of you are guilty as charged. Francois Dupree as ringleader and guilty of greater crimes you are sentenced to hang by the neck until you are dead. May God have mercy on your soul. Clyde Bates and Jacob Weaver you are sentenced to fifty lashes, branded on each cheek with a d for deserter, drummed out of the service and returned to Texas in chains where the Texas authorities will deal with you. Sentence to be carried out one week from today. Court is adjourned.
The morning of the 23rd, Colonel Reynolds told Rick to go visit again.
With the same escort team with one man added since Captain Talon had duties in the hospital. Rick chose his friend, Captain Kevin Ryan who had transferred to the Mounted Rifles at the same time Rick had,
Rick had left Jefferson Barracks with two pounds of 3f powder, a pound of 2f over five hundred .36 paper cartridges and another 500 lead balls. Purchasing the two Walker Colts meant that Rick's Colt-Patterson saw little use. Rick packed 100 paper cartridges and one hundred loose lead balls, also, five tins of caps. Suttlers were set up in camp so Rick was able to purchase a .36 bullet mold and bars of lead. At one shop he found a Colt-Patterson M1839 revolving carbine. He immediately bought it along with one hundred balls and a bullet mold. It was not a particularly popular arm and Rick acquired the lot for twelve dollars. It didn't have military inspector's marks so Rick felt safe in buying it. The gun's mechanism was similar to the Patterson revolver although it had a standard trigger and trigger guard arrangement. It was a .525 caliber smoothbore, it's effective range about one hundred yards. Rick intended it as a gift for Don Luis.
Rick had the feeling that even after the peace treaty was signed, times would be unsettled and extra firepower might come in handy. Rick and his party started out at eight-thirty. The escort troopers almost as eager to go back to the rancho as Rick was. They arrived at the rancho at a little before ten. The vaqueros had seen them coming and alerted the house. As before, the family was waiting for them on the veranda.
Kate's smile was serene. Here was another chance to spend some time with Rick. The party dismounted and after greetings were exchanged. Rick got the package containing the carbine off the saddle and all the ammunition out of his saddle bags. They went into the house and Rick said;
"I would like to introduce my good friend, Captain Kevin Ryan, Kevin and I were classmates at the academy and have served together since graduation."
Don Luis said;
"Welcome to my home. Don Ricardo has proved a good friend to us and if you are his friend, you are ours as well. Don Luis introduced the rest of the family. Ryan blushed and thanked Don Luis.
Rick said;
"If you ladies will excuse us for a few minutes I need a few minutes of Don Luis time in the gun room."
Don Luis, Vincente, Sir Henry and Ryan wen with Rick to the gun room. Rick first got out the powder, cartridges and loose balls and bullet mold for the Patterson revolver. Also, a five- pound bar of lead. He then unwrapped and presented the carbine.
"This is for you, Don Luis. I expect unrest and while it may or may not come here, it is better to be prepared for it. The action works like that of the revolver. Here are powder balls and a mold for it."
Don Luis took the carbine, looked it over then handed io Vincente who passed it to Sir Henry. "My stars, this is a fine weapon sir."
There were tears in his eyes when Don Luis said;
"This is a magnificent gift. The ladies must wait a few minutes more. A gift from a fried must be met with a gift, Come, we go to the stables.
One of the vaqueros led out a coal black stallion
"This horse needs a masterful horseman. He is yours. What will you call him?
"That's easy. "Midnight."
"Well, we had better not keep the ladies waiting any longer. We'll ride this afternoon."
As the left the gun room, Rick asked;
"How are you feeling, Vincente?"
"I am feeling well, just a few headaches."
"I will ask Captain Talon to ride out as soon as he can be spared from his duties at camp."
"That is not necessary, Ricardo. They will pass."
"Perhaps they will, but I shall ask him what he thinks. If he thinks it necessary, will you accept it?"
"Yes, if you both think I need it, I will accept it."
Elnora said;
"Gentlemen, we ladies are pining for your company. Please attend us."
"Si, Mi Corazon We have been amiss, but it was needful. Please forgive us."
"You are forgiven if you do not repeat the offense."
Both Don Luis and Elenora had noted how easily Kate smiled with Rick around, how her eye followed his every move. They had seen how attentive Rick was to Kate and easy he was with the twins.
The night before, in their bedroom they had talked. Elenora said;
"Do you see how Catalina's face lights up when she sees Don Ricardo. He is the first man to affect her so since Miguel's death. I want her to be happy but he is an American."
"So? She is not truly Mexican. She is Irish. We love her as a daughter and she loves us but she does not love Mexico. Don Ricardo is a good, kind, brave man. We must encourage them."
Recalling their talk, Elenora made sure that Rick was seated next to Kate as the chocolate and pan dulce were served. Ryan was seated between Elenora and Carlotta. Ryan was quiet, at first, among strangers but loosened up when he saw how easily the Duarte's accepted Rick into their midst, He was a little surprised that he too was accepted as a friend of their friend.
The twins, were included seated in rather ornate walnut high chairs imported from England. They chattered to their mother and grandmother
And even a little with Rick. Kate was quietly chatting with Rick, giving him, shy smiles and warm glances and he returned her smiles, his a little bolder. Even so soon, Kate could tell that he was beginning to become very interested in her
After the sweets had been enjoyed, Don Luis told the ladies about the exchange of gifts. Kate was encouraged by Rick's concern for her family's safety. Not many men would spend their own time and money for people of such short acquaintance.
Don Luis announced that after lunch the men intended to go for a ride and if the ladies would care to accompany them
The ladies agreed that they would like an outing.
Lunch was chicken, marinated in a lemon-based marinade then roasted and shredded served on flour tortillas with sliced avocado and rice.
Rick, Ryan and the trooper's horses had all been unsaddled and allowed to rest in the stables A little time was spent resaddling all but Rick's horse. Don Luis had Rick's saddle placed o Midnight. The horse snorted and fidgeted at the weight and feel of the unfamiliar saddle but soon quieted down as Rick stroked his face and spoke soothing words.
Kate and Carlotta rode with the men, riding sidesaddle. Elenora and Elizabeth rode in the carriage with the twins. With four vaqueros and Rick's men, they made quite a large party, too large for ay bandits to bother. Kate rode beside Rick, close enough that they could talk. She pointing out interesting sights on the rancho, but also talking of more personal things. Rick responded to her giving her smiles in return for hers.
Rick couldn't recall enjoying any ride he'd ever taken, as much as this one. The ride took up a couple of hours but it seemed but minutes to both Kate and Rick. They returned from the ride with a couple of hours to go until supper. Rick was shown to Enrique's old room. Hot water and a towel were brought so that he could wash and refresh himself.
Kate did the same but then took the time to put the twins down for their nap. They had been much too excited to nap during the ride. Everyone else had also taken time to refresh themselves and gathered back in the great room. A chilled wine was served. While the enlisted men enjoyed cool beer with the vaqueros.
While Rick was waiting for Kate, he began chatting with Sir Henry.
Getting into a professional discussion of the merits of classic dragoon tactics versus mounted rifles. Sir Henry was not quite as tall as Rick, but equally broad in the shoulder and had kept himself in shape.
Elenora said;
"Look at those two, together. Don Ricardo is taller but not that much. What if we invite Don Ricardo to our Christmas eve celebration? He speaks Spanish like a Hidalgo. He could borrow a frock coat and vest from Henry. I'm sure that he could buy civilian trousers in the city. And a fine linen shit and neckcloth." Don Luis agreed. They Got Carlotta in on it and the romantic conspirators happily put their plan together.
Kate came back from putting the twins down for their nap. She immediately gravitated to Rick's side.
"I thought Mama asked the gentlemen to attend the ladies. And here you two are talking about military things."
Henry smiled.
"That's true, my dear but you must excuse Major Rodgers, I engaged him in the discussion. Excuse me Katherine, Major."
Rick grinned. "That was rather bold of you, Katherine. Not that I mind."
Kate smiled back. "Sometimes one must be bold to get what one wants."
She placed a hand on his arm. "I am a little thirsty. I think I shall have a glass of wine will you have another glass?"
"I'd be delighted to."
They both got wine and settled on a settee.
"Tell me, Richard, what do you and your brother officers do when you are not on duty?"
"Many things. We read what newspapers we can get though they are often weeks or months old. Read and write letters, some play cards or dice. I have a book of poetry by Sir Walter Scott and a copy of Shakespeare's Julius Caesar. Sometimes I play poker, but not often."
"What is poker?"
"It's a card game played with five or seven cards and wagers are placed on each hand. One of the other officers bought a chess set and we play when we can. There is also a game called checkers, played on a board like a chess board. Some of the men have made "boards" out of colored cloth."
"It sounds more interesting than I thought it would be."
"There's not a lot of time to do that with keeping our clothe and equipment in shape.'
"You're a major. Don't you have a servant to do those things for you?"
"Not on campaign. Although now in the city. I pay a private to polish my boots and I hired a widow to take care of my clothes. My weapons, I take care of, myself. I wouldn't trust anyone to do that for me."
"What do you do, Katherine?"
"Just the usual family things. There haven't been any fiestas since the war started. Much of my time is taken up by my girls. But I ride, enjoy the garden, do embroidery, I read but our local newspapers aren't much more than glorified handbills for the politicos. I do like to sew and often help Mama, Charlotte and Margarita make dresses. Mama's too practical to waste money on day dresses. I sing and play the guitar."
"You play the guitar? So do I."
"You didn't mention that a moment ago."
"There was no way to carry a guitar on campaign."
"Then you must play something for us."
"That's not a good Idea, I haven't played in over two years and I don't have a guitar and I don't know any Mexican songs
"Please do. You may be out of practice, but you don't forget how. Come, I will play with you. We have two guitars. Papa plays. I think that papa will let you use his guitar.
Kate gulped down her wine, stood and grabbed Rick's hand.
"Please come with me.: She towed him over to where the main group was standing. "Mama, Papa. I have discovered the most marvelous thing. Don Ricardo plays the guitar. Papa, could he borrow your guitar?"
"Splendid Idea. Catalina, fetch your guitar and I shall get mine."
"But as I told Katherine, I don't know any Mexican songs."
Your Spanish is excellent you can learn the words easily and we all speak English so sing a couple of American songs. With Kate as a teacher, Rick learned a couple of simple songs more for the children, and one more adult but still simple
They moved into the salon where Rick was surprised to find a piano-forte. "Mama plays the piano-forte. Kare said
.
Elenora started the mini-concert with renditions of Fur Elise and moonlight Sonata. Kate and Rick played the two simple songs he'd learned. Then Rick said;
"I'd like to do a couple in English. Th first is a nonsense song, sung just for fun. It's called Oh Susannah.
Rick's baritone filled the air
Well, I come from Alabama with my banjo on my knee, I'm bound for Louisiana my own true love to see. It did rain all night the day I left, the weather it was dry, the sun so hot I froze to death, Susannah don't you cry.
I said oh Susannah now don't you cry for me as I come from Alabama with this banjo on my knee. Now I had a dream the other night when everything was still, I saw my girl Susannah coming around the hill
Now the buckwheat cake was in her mouth, a tear was in her eye
I said I come from Dixie Land Susannah don't you break down and cry
I said Oh Susannah now don't you cry for me, because I come from Alabama with my banjo on my knee
Everyone had a good laugh at the end of the song.
Then Rick said;
There's one I think Katherine will especially like. It's been sung many times by my Irish troopers."
The pale moon was rising above the green mountain, the sun was declining beneath the blue sea. When I strayed with my love to the pure crystal fountain that stands in the beautiful vale of Tralee.
She was lovely and fail as the rose of the summer. Yet it was not her beauty alone that won me: Oh no, 'Twas the truth in her eyes ever dawning that made me love Mary, the Rose of Tralee.
The cool shades of evening their mantle were spreading. And Mary, all smiling was listening to me. The moon through the valley her pale rays was shedding. When I won the heart of the Rose of Tralee.
Though lovely and fair as the rose of the summer. Yet it was not her beauty alone that won me: Oh no, 'Twas the truth in her eyes ever dawning that made me love Mary, the Rose of Tralee.
In the far fields of India 'Mid war's dreadful thunders, her voice was a solace and comfort to me. But the chill hand of death has now, rent us asunder, I'm lonely tonight for the Rose of Tralee. Yet it was not her beauty alone that won me: Oh no, 'Twas the truth in her eyes ever dawning that made me love Mary, the Rose of Tralee.
There were tears in the ladies' eyes as Rick finished singing. Elenora said;
"That was both sad and beautiful, Don Ricardo, do you have any more?"
Rick shook his head. "Not that I remember all the words to. I'll see if any of the sutlers have any sheet music appropriate to this house."
The songs ended everyone returned to the great room for another glass of wine before supper. (Fruit juice for the twins)
Don Luis spoke to Sir Henry, who was happy to oblige. He then said to Rick;
"Don Ricardo, tomorrow evening we have a small celebration for the birth of the Christ child. We would be very pleased if you could spend it with us. It often runs late so it would be better to spend the night with us and Christmas day as well."
"I would enjoy that very much, but my colonel would have to approve it."
"If you do, may I make a small request?"
"Of course."
"As it is a special time of peace, I would like you to leave your uniform in camp. Henry has agreed to lend you a frock coat and vest. If you would be willing to buy linen shirt and fine wool trousers in the city."
"That sounds reasonable to keep the ladies happy"
Dinner was served soon after, a haunch of venison, with yams and corn and a tomato and onion salad. Flan and pan dulce for dessert.
After supper it was time to return to camp, Rick taking the coat and vest with him. As he was mounting Kate came to stand by his horse.
"Please Richard, do everything in your power to come."
"I shall. Do you think that I'd let another Caballero squire the prettiest woman around?" Kate smiled and blushed.
"Good night, Richard. Go with God."
"Good night, Katherine."
Rick and his men reached camp without incident.
American camp, Mexico City. 9:00AM 24, December 1847.
Rick reported to Colonel Reynolds with the results of yesterday's visit and the invitation, including the request that he wear civilian clothes.
"I approve the request. You are on leave from noon today until retreat on the 26th. You will go with your escort, fully armed and change clothes when you reach the rancho. I am issuing twenty dollars to have your men buy civilian clothes from the sutlers. Your own clothes come out of your pocket. See to your Battalion, before you leave."
"Yes sir."
"Dismissed."
Rick checked in with his executive officer, Captain Brent, signed what orders were needful and explained his leave and mission. Brent was a competent and good-natured officer. He laughed.
"You lucky dog! Any officer in this division would give his right arm for such a mission!"
Rick divided the twenty dollars, giving each man five dollars then adding another dollar each from his own pocket.
The frock coat was a deep burgundy in color and the vest a gold brocade. Rick bough a pair of general staff trousers that were a very dark blue without a trouser stripe so they couldn't be told from civilian trousers. He bought two fine linen shirts and a black cravat. A pair of dress shoes and a wide brimmed "Planter's hat."
Then recalling his own family traditions, he bought some small gifts. A bottle of whiskey and cigars for the men. A bottle of sherry and tins of hard candy and mints for the ladies and small bags of soft candy for the twins. With everything set, they left for the rancho at 4:00 PM.
Arriving at the rancho, Rick explained that the colonel insisted that Rick and his escort wear uniforms to ward off bandits and immediately change into civilian clothes.
After the horses were stabled and the escort changed clothes, Kate said;
"Richard, why don't you give your clothes to Margarita. She will Iron the shirts and trousers and sponge the frock coat. While she is doing that, you can have a bath. Rick thought that was a splendid idea. The warm bath relaxed him and a shave refreshed him.
Kate admired him as he entered the main room. She smiled.
"Good afternoon, Senor Rodgers. My, how handsome you do look. Every inch the Irish Caballero."
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