THE BORDER EAGLES

CHAPTER EIGHT

A NEW LOVE PART TWO

RANCHO Tres Arboles, Mexico, 24, December 1847

"Good afternoon, Senor Rodgers. My, how handsome you do look. Every inch the Irish Caballero."

Rick gave Kate a smile in return.

"You are the very image of loveliness, Senora Duarte"

Kate's eyes danced with pleasure. This was no time to play the demure coquette. God alone knew how much or how little time they might have. True, it may have only four days but Kate was very sure of her feelings. Her instincts were telling her that in front of her was a strong man, but at the same time a sensitive man, gentle by preference but fierce and deadly when need be. He had spent a little time with the twins, and they had taken to him immediately. They were as empathic, intuitive as their mother and they wanted a papa. This man could become papa.

Kate placed a delicate hand on Rick's arm as he escorted her into the salon. The family was gathered there as was a distinguished looking elderly couple. Don Luis spoke;

"Good afternoon, Don Ricardo. Don Ricardo, may I introduce Don Eduardo Morales and his wife, Dona Estella. My friends, May I introduce Don Ricardo Rodgers." Polite greetings were exchanged.

Rick then greeted each family member, warmly, taking special care to take a moment for the twins. He bowed to them as if they were adults and said;

"Good afternoon, Senorita Beatrice, Senorita Elisa. You both look very pretty." As before, the girls giggled but chorused; "Good afternoon, Don Ricardo." (Rick was speaking in Spanish since arriving) Wine was served to the adults and fruit juice to the twins and quiet conversation went on then, Don Luis said;

"Despite his excellent Spanish, Don Ricardo is but recently arrived in Mexico. He is not familiar with our custom of Posada."

Don Luis then explained the Posada finishing with;

"Since today is the final day of the Posada, after dinner a few more friends will arrive here to finish the celebration."

Margarita has prepared tamales and biscuits to give to the Posadistas when they arrive. Jose and maria will knock at the door and be asked to enter. Symbolizing the holy ones taking shelter in the stable. After the Posada is over, we will have a novena, saying a special prayer." He led Rick to a large room he hadn't seen before. It was richly one in dark woods and lit by many candles. In it was a small altar and a beautifully cared nativity scene.'

"Our family and special friends will say the novena in here. You are, of course, invited."

"But I'm not a Catholic."

"It does not matter, Ricardo, Jesus see's what is in our hearts. Tomorrow morning, we go to mass at a church in a small village about a mile from here. You are welcome to come with us if you wish. Father Felix is always happy to see a new face. And perhaps you may see the beauty of the true faith." Rick smiled.

"Trying to convert me, Don Luis?"

"You say that in jest, Ricardo but in truth it is always one's duty to try and bring another to see the truth and the light." Then on a lighter note, Don Luis said;

"We are friends, shall we not drop the formality? I am simply Luis, Ricardo." Rick smiled and shook Luis' hand.

"Agreed, my friend, Agreed." They returned to the salon, where Kate immediately moved to Rick's side. Rick said;

"It seems that beauty is all around me here. Your house chapel is a beautiful room. Of course, you ladies are more beautiful than any of your surroundings."

"Oh, you are such a flatterer."

"It is not flattery when it is the truth."

Rick Was telling the truth. Margarita was the least of them, looks wise and she was very pretty, if just a trifle plump. Carlotta and Kate were both beauties, Elenora and Elizabeth had a mature loveliness. Even elderly Dona Estella retained a great deal of what had once been a stunning beauty.

The conversation stayed light, mostly centering on the beauty of the season. And wishes for a better new year, Kate wishing fervently for a very special new year. An hour and a half passed rapidly and it was almost time for dinner.

One more guest who arrived just in time for dinner, was Father Felix Carrano, the parish priest. He would lead the novena for the family and stay for the posada. He knew everyone else, but was introduced to Rick which roused his curiosity.

A roast of beef with new potatoes, black beans and tamales. Desert was flan and small pastries. A good red wine accompanied the meal. Kate made sure that she was seated next to Rick with the twins on her other side with Leona, the ninera beside them. Kate was busy with the children for a few minutes, but after that, she was happy to direct most of her conversation to Rick. The conversation was lively and accompanied a truly excellent meal.

Don Luis knew Father Carrano well, had known him for years. He knew that this humble man of God could be trusted, so he took him aside and told him the true story about Rick. Don Luis asked Rick to join them.

Father Felix smiled.

"I am most pleased to hear the story about you, Major. Truly the actions of a Christian gentleman. Many men would have thought that none of their business. I will not reveal your true identity to anyone, but in a little time the true story should be told. It will help heal the rift between our peoples. That being settled, will we see you at mass in the morning?"

"I don't know, Father, I am not a Catholic, I'm Anglican."

"You are still welcome in our church. You are a son of God even if not a son of the true church. He gave a sly smile. Perhaps if you are with us long enough, we may find a way to change that."

Kate had seen the three men talking and knowing that Don Luis had invited Rick to church, she was sure that Father Felix had done so as well. As soon as Father Felix and Don Luis went to prepare for the novena, Kate came to Rick.

"Richard, I know that Papa has invited you to church, tomorrow. I am asking you as well, it has been so long since I had anyone to escort me. Please come."

Rick smiled.

"How could I possible refuse such a sweet request? I shall be honored to escort you."

Inwardly, Kate rejoiced, she'd have this man right beside her in church, with her hand resting lightly on his arm. That was sure to start him thinking the thoughts she wanted him to think.

The Posadistas (Mary and Joseph) came, knocked at the door and were invited in with their entourage. Prayers were said, small gifts of candy, tamales and pastries were given out and the Posadistas left.

After everyone had relaxed and were sitting around, Rick went and got a bag from the room he'd been allotted to. He said;

"At Christmastime my family usually give gifts to each other and our friends. I hope these small gifts please you. He gave the whisky to Don Luis. I think that you three gentlemen won't mind sharing this. I also have cigars for each of you." He handed them out. "Ladies, I hope that you will like this sherry." He then gave each lady the hard candies and mints." The twins had gone to sleep at this point so Rick said;

"Katherine, here is a bag of candy for each of the girls"

Each adult thanked Rick. True each gift was small, but the thought behind them and the time taken to find them were not small, at all.

Kate's eyes were soft, regarding this kind, generous man. Yes, I must make him mine. Even in small things he is thoughtful of others. Brave, kind, generous, gentle, despite being a warrior. And oh, so handsome.

True, it has been but a handful of days, but my heart knows. I must make his know the same And I remember Lanie's prediction that before the new year turned twice, I would meet my man. She was right. I have.

Elenora said;'

"Don Ricardo, I am mortified we have nothing to give you."

"Not true, Dona Elenora, you have already given me much. The warmth of your home and your friendship. For a man far from home, those are precious gifts. Far more valuable than liquor and candy."

Elenora smiled.

"You have given us much more than that Don Ricardo, you gave us our son

and daughters' safety if not their very lives."

Don Luis said;

"We are friends and friends do not count the greatness or smallness of gifts. Only that they are given. No more titles or honorifics in this house. Only names."

"Well said, Mi Corazon. You gentlemen go enjoy your whisky and cigars. We ladies will enjoy our sherry and sample our candy. Both groups did as they were bid, although both Kae and Rick did so a little reluctantly.

Rick rarely smoked and then only a pipe. He didn't like cigars or cigarettes. He had brought his pipe and tobacco pouch, knowing that he would be expected to smoke with the men. He said;

"Please enjoy your cigars. I personally prefer a pipe." He brought his out and began filling it. The other three nodded and went through the sniffing and clipping ritual before lighting them. Rick lit his pipe.

Don Luis said;

"Now that the ladies are not here, we can speak seriously. What do you think, Ricardo, will peace come quickly?"

"I think so, Luis. Although your soldiers are mostly brave, stalwart men, your officer corps has too few professional officers. Santa Ana had superior numbers in most of the battles but very poor leadership and infighting among his subordinate generals. Many of your men are poorly equipped and unpaid, conscripted, without choice. Our men are all volunteers, well equipped and paid as soon as our trains caught up with us.

On top of that, Mexico has very few factories compared to the United States, especially arms manufacturers. Mexico can't support any more war."

Henry said;

'He's right, Luis and I can tell you that Mexico's credit abroad is poor. She owes too much to England and France. No money, no arms."

Rick said;

"As I said. I hope so and the sooner the better. I for one, am sick of the fighting. I suppose that sounds odd coming from a professional officer, but my dreams of glory faded early on. Too many good men, on both sides have died.

I have a twin brother, an artillery officer. He didn't die, but he lost his left leg, below the knee. He will probably leave the army when he recovers."

"What would you do If you weren't an officer?"

"The academy gave us a good education in mathematics and basic engineering, even though there aren't that many openings in the corps of engineers so most of us go into the dragoons, infantry or artillery. I could probably make my living as a civil engineer. But that's a decision I haven't thought that much about that. Sick of the fighting? Yes. Tired of army life, I don't know."

Luis said;

"Well, let us not talk any more of war, let us talk of Christmas, joy and beautiful women. A toast. Gentlemen raise your glasses to beautiful women and the time to love them."

They drank the toast, then each had a second glass of whisky, and just finished their smokes when Margarita came into the room.

"Don Luis, senores, Dona Elenora and the ladies ask that you join them."

Elenora had Margarita prepare chocolate and small biscuits as a final snack of the evening. Kate, again sat by Rick, lightly touching his arm, several times as a quiet conversation was carried on around the table. After the snack was finished Rick said; at home, just before we retired for the evening prayer on Christmas Eve, we would sing songs called carols. I would like to sing one for you."

Elenora said; "That would be delightful, Ricardo. Please do."

Rick sang Silent Night. Everyone applauded Rick and Henry said;

"What about one more. Richard, do you know God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen?

"Yes, I do."

"Good let's sing it." Henry, Elizabeth and Rick sang the carol. Which also received appreciation.:

Luis said;

"It is time to say the prayer of thankfulness for the birth of Jesus, then we shall all retire for the night."

The prayer was said and the group split up to go to their rooms. As Kate's room was just down the hallway from the room Rick was staying in, she thought.

I must be a little forward, a tad bold. A first step.

Putting her thoughts into action, Kate placed a hand on Rick's cheek and gave him a brief kiss on the lips. "Sleep well, and sweet dreams."

She blushed and turned and went into her room closing the door, gently.

Rick stood still, a moment, stunned. That such a beautiful and obviously a good woman should act so boldly. It had to mean something After a moment, he smiled. Maybe something very special."

Rancho Tres Arboles, Christmas Day, 1847.

Rick awoke, stretched, then reached for his pocket watch. Seven thirty! He never slept this late. He got out of bed and relieved his bladder in the chamber pot. He'd visit the jakes later. He found that a pitcher and bowl with hot water, soap and a towel had been set on the night stand.

He washed and shaved and put on fresh linen and a fresh shirt that had been laid out for him and his shoes freshly blacked. He dressed and went into the main room where Kate was waiting for him. She opted for boldness again and kissed him on the cheek.

"Good morning, Richard. Breakfast will be ready for us in a few minutes. Right after breakfast we will leave for church. I shall be so happy to have you escorting me." He smiled.

"Good morning, Katherine. I shall be honored and very happy to be your escort. I will be the envy of any man there." He paused, then said;

"Before we go into breakfast, I want to give Margarita a half dollar. She Ironed my shirt and laid it out and I am sure prepared hot water so that I could shave. I also want to give Jose a quarter for cleaning and blacking my shoes."

"That is not necessary, they were happy to do those things for a guest."

"Very well, then make it a dollar for each of them and call it a Christmas present."

Kate smiled. "That will make them very happy." Kate thought.

This is just another proof that I am right about him He is thoughtful and generous, even to the servants. Most men of our class ignore them. He is so much like Luis in that regard. Holy Mother help me win the heart of this good man.

Kate called Margarita and told her to find Jose and bring him to Don Ricardo. While Margarita was gone, Kate found some festive paper and wrapped the two coins. When each was presented with their gifts, Margarita cried and hugged Rick Jose managed to stammer out a thank you.

"I will give the girls their presents right after church. F I give them to them now, they will want to eat them now, not their breakfasts." They went into the dining room. Greetings were exchanged with everyone, as before the twins received the same courtesy as the adults. The girls eagerly greeting Rick.

Breakfast over, the family got ready to go to church. Kate, Carlotta, Leona and the twins riding in one carriage, driven by Rodolfo, Elenora, and Elizabeth in another carriage driven by Fernando, the foreman.

Don Luis, Sir Henry, Vincente and Rick all rode horseback. Rick rode Midnight with a borrowed saddle. His military saddle would probably cause at least odd looks, if not actual problems. Not anticipating trouble, but wanting to be ready if any occurred, Rick quietly slipped his Patterson into a saddle bag, not wanting to carry a weapon into church.

Entering the church, the Duarte family drew many admiring and envious glances. No other family in the area boasted such a collection of beauties.

A wealthy, influential family, the Duarte's had an entire pew reserved for them and their guests. Many frankly curious glances were directed at the strange, handsome man escorting the young Duarte widow. Several whispered conversations were exchanged before the Mass began.

Although not an overly religious man, Rick enjoyed and was impressed by the joyous celebration of Christ's birth. After the service was over, t The Duarte's greeted a few friends, but didn't linger to talk, which suited both Kate and Rick just fine. They arrived back at the rancho without incident. Waiting for a moment after he dismounted, Rick removed the Patterson from the saddle bag, slipping it into his waist band. He went to his room, removed his hat and gloves and returned the revolver to its' holster. He retrieved the candy for the twins. He waited until everyone settled down then said;

"Senorita's, in my home all good children receive small gifts on Christmas day. Your mother tells me that you have been very good, so these candies are for you. One bag for each of you."

The girl's eyes lit up and they smiled in delight.

"What do you say to Don Ricardo, Nina's?

"Gracias, Don Ricardo." They chorused.

"De Nada, Senoritas."

Kate's smile was soft. I know that my feelings are true. Richard must be ours. Mine and the girls. He will make a wonderful father. I must do everything I can to convince him.

After the girls went to show their treats to their grandparents, Kate said, softly;

"You are so kind to my girls, Richard. It makes me so happy."

"It is easy to do, they are sweet, and well behaved."

"Nonetheless, it is special. Many young men ignore them."

"Well then, you have been called on my foolish men."

Kate smiled. Rick's words seemed to mean that he was calling on her, personally not just as part of the family. She so wanted that to be true.

The day sped quickly in celebration of the holy day as well as warm conversations and small games, Kate and the twins devoting most of their time to Rick, with Don Luis and Elenora looking on, approvingly.

Christmas dinner was another feast. A haunch of venison, rice, beans, sweet potatoes and tamales. Wine, coffee and pastries. Kate's friend, Lanie had been invited to spend Christmas day with the family and she was slyly watching Kate and Rick. At one point in the afternoon, she had pulled Kate aside.

"See. I told you that you would find your man, that handsome dashing major is the one. OF course, if you dally too long other huntress may enter the pursuit."

"I'm not dallying. I've already made some small moves. I think they have him interested."

"You'd better make him more than just interested."

"I will, but if I move too fast or too boldly, I might scare him off."

Lanie laughed. "I don't think you could scare that man, if you tried. There is a full moon tonight, it is time for La Reina De Los Noches to bloom. Ask him to walk with you in the garden and show it too him. Sow him something else too, show him your heart."

Kate came up to Richard.

"Richard, there is a full moon tonight. The garden is lovely by moonlight. Will you walk with me?"

"Of course, I will, it will be my pleasure."

As soon as they were in the garden, Kate took Rick's arm and snuggled close. She led him over to a tall slender plant that bore a beautiful white flower.

"That flower is called La Reina De Los Noches. It only blooms at night and only once every few months."

"It is a beautiful flower, but not nearly as lovely as you."

"Thank you, Richard, like that flower, my heart hasn't bloomed in many months. Not until you came. I know that it has only been a few days, but I have feelings for you. Please tell me that I'm not alone."

"Until I met you, Katherine, I did not believe that I could come to care, so quickly. But I have feelings for you, as well."

"Then show me." He took her in his arms and they shared a passionate kiss. After a few moments, she pulled away, panting She caught her breath and said;

"We mustn't tarry too long here, but when you retire, tonight, do not fall asleep, for I shall come to you."

They regained their composure and rejoined the family for chocolate and pan dulce before bed, pleading tiredness, Rick went to his room, changed into a nightshirt and a borrowed dressing robe He poured himself a whisky and sipped it as he waited. Ata little after midnight, there was a light tap at his door, He opened it. Kate slipped through, also dressed much as Rick was, but in a diaphanous gown under the robe.

Needless to say, neither robes, nor gowns nor night shirts stayed on, very long

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