“There’s a company of men coming down the Red River,” Archie said, excitement in his voice. “Looks to be Lord Selkirk and the other soldiers.”
Arran nodded and smiled. “Thank you. I’ll be at the gate in a minute.”
“Lord Selkirk has finally arrived?” Eleanor asked.
“Aye. Would you like to join me in welcoming him?”
“I’m eager to hear news of my cousin,” she said. “It feels like a lifetime since I’ve seen her or Lord Selkirk.” She went to the door and took her shawl off the hook. “Having a firsthand account is far better than a letter.”
Miriam stayed with Nicolette while Eleanor and Arran walked through the fort to the riverside gate. They stood there and watched the six canoes as they floated downriver. The sun was just setting, offering a spectacular pink-and-orange glow across the heavens. A golden hue covered all of Assiniboia, crowing it in magnificent splendor. It seemed as if the colony knew who was coming and was putting on a show for its founder.
Across the water, on the east side of the Red River, dozens of tents had been set up in the area designated for the de Meuron soldiers. Some had begun to build their houses in preparation for winter. Their presence had already sent a message to the Nor’westers and Bois-Brûlés. If anyone tried to bother the colony again, they would have to face nearly two hundred mercenary soldiers, as well as a hundred and fifty determined settlers.
Not one person had abandoned Assiniboia since the Battle of Seven Oaks. No one wanted the death of the twenty-three men to be in vain—including Arran and Eleanor. The decision to stay had not once been questioned by either of them.
In due time, the brigade arrived and Lord Selkirk disembarked. The canoes were laden with an abundance of supplies, which were quickly unloaded and stacked on land.
Lord Selkirk slowly walked up the riverbank and came to the gate. His weary look disappeared when he saw Eleanor.
“My dear,” he said, stretching out his hands. “You look lovely.”
“Lord Selkirk.” Eleanor curtsied and then went into the earl’s embrace for a hug. “It is good to see you again.”
“And you.” After he hugged her, he held her at arm’s length, his bright blue gaze taking in the length of her. “You look radiant. Assiniboia has been good for you.”
“If I’m radiant,” she said, “it’s because of my husband.”
“Husband?”
Arran could not contain his smile.
“Arran and I were married at Jack River House,” Eleanor said, taking his hand in hers. “Four weeks ago. We wish you could have been there to witness the happy event.”
“Congratulations, MacLean,” Selkirk said to Arran, offering his hand to shake. “You are a very lucky man.”
“Aye,” Arran said. “I dinna ken a happier man in the entire Northwestern wilderness.”
Eleanor looked up at Arran with complete and utter devotion. He still couldn’t believe she was his wife.
“And how is your wife?” Eleanor asked Lord Selkirk. “I’m anxious to hear word of her.”
“She sends her love, though she wishes she could have come. I left her and the children in Montreal.” Lord Selkirk sighed. “I thought it best, given the dire circumstances facing the colony earlier this year.”
“Aye,” Arran agreed. “A wise choice.”
“I’m happy to see you’ve taken back the fort, MacLean.” Selkirk glanced around, appreciation and approval in his voice. “Well done.”
“Thank you, my lord. It wasn’t difficult with your army at the ready.”
Selkirk stood for a moment, slowly turning to take in the full scope of his colony. He shook his head, amazement and disbelief in his gaze. “I never thought I’d see Assiniboia with my own eyes. God is good, indeed.”
“She’s a fine colony,” Arran said. “None better. And we have you to thank for that.”
“You have yourself to thank.” Selkirk shook his head. “If there’s anyone who should get the accolades for her success, it should be you. I owe you everything, Arran.”
“Many brave men and women have worked hard for Assiniboia.” Arran would not take all the credit. “I have been only one person in the midst of many great people.”
“Yes,” Selkirk agreed. “But she’s only as fine as her leaders.” He smiled at Arran. “I look forward to getting a full tour in the morning, when the light is better.”
