"I've been called a lot of things in my day," said Mort Cory to his mirror's image. It was early morning and he usually liked getting up and shaving first thing before breakfast. "People say I'm fair, honest, trustworthy, a by-the-book sheriff," he continued. " I'm proud to be that kind of sheriff. So why then am I trying to avoid writing a simple letter?" The man in the mirror looked back at him and said nothing.
"I promised myself that I would be honest with her even if it pained her. If I have to write her the unthinkable, I will do it with compassion. She loves all her boys but I think she's particularly fond of Jess. It would break her mending heart if that family were to lose him permanently. Of course, being that we don't know the truth he might be dead now. Funny thing though, Slim doesn't think so."
His one-sided dialogue finished as well as his shaving, Mort again faced his dilemma, this time with resolve. He fished some paper out of his desk, sharpened a pencil with his knife and began to write.
Dear Mrs. Cooper,
Thank you for your letter. As of right now, the town is quiet. There have been no shootings as of yesterday. The children are in school now and they seem to be well-behaved.
I haven't heard from Andy or Mike but I am sure that they have written Slim. That family of yours is very close. You are blessed.
I have one unpleasant piece of news, though. Slim rode into town a few days ago. He stopped by the office and we had some coffee. He looks tired and is moving rather stiffly. He said he had received a letter from Seth, his lawyer and that was why he was in town. Of course, he inquired if I had heard anything and as usual, I had to say 'no'.
Well, he went on his way and an hour or so later, I heard angry shouting from down the street. I grabbed my hat and ran out just in time to see Slim marching angrily to his horse. When I reached his side, all he said was "outta my way, Mort" and mounting his horse rode out of town. Stunned, I walked over to Seth's office and demanded to know what was going on.
"It's a private matter," he told me.
"You mean between you and your client?" I asked.
Seth nodded and then said I should ride out to the Sherman ranch later and make sure that Slim was alright.
Well, it turns out that Seth thinks Jess rode away on purpose and that Slim might be swindled. He wanted Slim to take Jess' name off the deed and brand.
Of course, Slim refused. Anyway, everything has calmed down now. I know, from the new postmaster that Slim wrote Andy.
I'm trying my best to look out for him , Mrs. Cooper like I promised, but he isn't making it easy. I will write again soon.
Mort Cory, Sheriff- Laramie