“Because the evidence points to their involvement.” Seth raised his hands. “You didn’t hear that from me. In fact, I wish I’d kept quiet, but now that I’ve said it, you must know that you cannot share this information with your aunt and uncle. They are at the very center of this investigation, and it doesn’t look good for them.”
Instead of being afraid or even angry, Faith couldn’t keep from laughing out loud. The look of surprise on Seth’s and Nancy’s faces only amused her more. “Honestly, you can’t be serious.”
“Very serious.” Seth looked at his wife, who nodded.
Faith stood up and shook her head. “Then neither of you know Mercy and Adam Browning as I do. They would no more corrupt the Indians under their care—or any Indian, for that matter—than they would their own children. Their love for the Native people runs deep, and they would never allow anything that might bring them harm.” She sobered. “No matter what your evidence says, it’s wrong. They have nothing to do with this, and if you have proof otherwise, then it has been planted to deceive you from catching the true culprits.”
She turned and left the room, unwilling to hear more.
CHAPTER4
Andrew Gratton tidied his quarters, including the dirty bandages he’d just changed. He’d have them washed to use again. He glanced at the wound on his arm. It had healed nicely, thanks to the very interesting and beautiful Faith Kenner.
He smiled at the memory of her taking him to task. She was witty and charming but also decisive and forthright. The latter traits were more positive than negative.
“Captain?” Denny stood at the door.
“Come in, Denny. Did you bring the log?”
“I did, and a report. The cargo has been offloaded, and the return shipment is being taken on as we speak.”
“Very good. Thank you.” Andrew took the log. “After you see to that, you and the boys are free to take the afternoon off. Just make sure you’re back in plenty of time for our departure for Oregon City.”
“Will do, Captain.” The tall, skinny man, hardly more than a boy, whistled as he walked away.
Andrew got back to the work of checking his log entries, but his thoughts kept returning to Faith. He wished he couldsee her again, even if just to thank her for her kindness. But even more, he’d like to confirm her claim that she was gifted as a healer and get to know what other gifts she might have.
“Captain?” It was Denny again.
Andrew frowned. “Is there a problem?”
“No, sir. I found a lady on the dock. She said she needed to see you.”
Andrew closed the log and got to his feet. “Take me to her.”
Denny led the way, and much to his delight, Andrew found himself face to face with the very woman who had been on his mind.
“Miss Kenner.” He tried his best not to sound overly enthusiastic. “What brings you here?”
“I heard theMorning Starwas in port. Or dock. Whatever it is you say.” She smiled. “I felt it my duty to come check your arm. It has been nearly two weeks since I set the stitches.”
“Yes, I suppose it has.”
“Have you had them removed?”
“No. I haven’t had the time, to be honest. I was delivering up around Astoria.”
“Might I examine your arm and remove them now?” She held up her black bag. “I have all that I need to do the job.”
“I suppose there’s no harm in that. Come to the wheelhouse.” He led the way. Once they reached the wheelhouse, however, he paused and held the door open. “After you.”
Miss Kenner stepped past him and placed her bag on the counter. She then pulled off her gloves and began unbuttoning her coat. Andrew watched, almost mesmerized. What was it about this woman that so captivated him?
“I think you’ll find it quite cold in here,” he said. “You might want that coat.”
She shrugged out of it just the same. “I find it easier to work when I’m unencumbered. Now, please sit and roll up your sleeve.”
Andrew removed his wool coat and did as instructed. “I just stopped using the bandages. The wound has completely closed and no longer seemed at risk of oozing or taking in dirt.”
