“Reverend Cook, it’s good to see you again. Do you know Edward Vogel? He’s one of our city deputies.”
Edward gave the man a nod. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
“Reverend Cook is heading up the Episcopal church.”
“There’s not much to show for it yet,” the older man declared, “but I am determined to see it through. In fact, with over one hundred children already flooding into this school, I’m of a mind to write to my bishop and suggest we form a parish school.”
“I suppose first there ought to be an actual church,” Dr. Scott said, looking at the man with a smile.
“Yes, I agree. First must come the church, but I’m certain we can do something to help further education in this place as well.”
Edward listened to the two men discuss the merits of schools run by the church for several minutes, then excused himself and made his way out. Marybeth would be excited to hear all the news, especially since Dr. Scott had cancelled church services in order to celebrate the new school. They’d all be glad when they could boast a church of their own and hold regular services in the morning.
Of course, there weren’t any churches in Cheyenne that were set up in buildings of their own. Saloons and brothels got built first. Churches only went up when civilized people came to town, and while there were more and more of those coming every day, churches were still just a dream. Folks would have to go on meeting in buildings set aside for other purposes, at times when it wouldn’t interfere with those purposes.
It would all come in time, he reminded himself. They just celebrated the first school, and there was already talk of changing out the tent hospital for a two-story building. Cheyenne hadn’t even been a town for all that long. They would have to be patient. The railroad and its needs held precedence. The rest would follow.
15
“Thanks for inviting us over,” Marybeth said a few nights later as Eve ushered her and Carrie into the house. “I’m glad you weren’t worried about Carrie’s cold. It gives me a sense of relief to know that someone as experienced with children as you are isn’t concerned.”
“If it were something worse, I think we’d see signs of that. She just seems to have a congested head—nothing more. The boys have it too, so I thought maybe you’d enjoy just talking and letting the children play together. I know I could use a friend.”
Marybeth nodded. “It does get lonely at times.” She forced a smile.
The petite woman returned a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Boys, take Carrie to your room and play.”
“Come on,” Samuel said, reaching for Carrie’s hand. “We can build something.”
“Build something,” Carrie echoed. David followed them like a faithful puppy.
“David will follow Samuel anywhere. He’s completely devoted to his big brother.” Eve pointed to a large overstuffed chair by the fireplace. “Please sit. I’ll get us some tea.”
Marybeth took a seat, admiring the upholstery on the chair. She ran her hand over the armrest and settled back. It was easily the most comfortable chair in which she’d ever sat.
Eve returned after a few moments, bringing a tray with tea and a few shortbread cookies. She poured the tea and handed Marybeth a cup and saucer.
“Smells good.” Marybeth breathed deep of the aroma.
“It’s a special oolong tea from China. My mother found it on a trip to San Francisco, and we’ve tried to keep some on hand ever since.” She took her seat and poured another cup. “When Fred and I moved here, she sent some with me. It hasn’t been easy to get, but the railroad will change all of that. Hopefully, it will bring down the price as well. Although”—she gave a little shrug—“my folks can afford it.”
Marybeth sampled the brew. It was exquisite. A slight woody fragrance with a hint of sweetness.
“I’m a poor hostess. I forgot to ask if you wanted sugar or cream.”
“Neither. I usually drink my tea plain. This is very good.”
“Help yourself to the cookies. They are another indulgence of mine. My mother always had them at her teas. Our cook would make dozens and dozens. These I made myself. When I learned we were moving here, I had the cook show me how to make them. It isn’t hard at all.”
“I have a recipe for shortbread. It’s very simple. Just three ingredients.”
Eve glanced at the fire. “Mine is that way too. So simple.” She sighed. “I miss having tea with my mother. She always held such wonderful teas.” This time her smile was more genuine. She turned to Marybeth. “What about your mother? What did she think of you coming here?”
“My mother died when I was thirteen. If she were around,I think she’d be worried for me. The dangers out here are enough to make any mother worry.”
“I know. I fear constantly for the boys. Fred said I don’t need to be afraid. He says the Indians would never attack the city and that the army is strong enough to repel them if they did. But the army is miles away, and we live on the edge of town. And not only that, there are the outlaws that roam free in Cheyenne. They’re a worrisome bunch, to be sure.”
“I agree. Edward says things will change once the railroad moves on west.”
