Page 11 of Scarlett

“Of course. I’ll be there shortly. Head on back, Mrs. Beard. I’ll be right behind you.”

The woman, who lived less than a mile away hurried off, tugging the child behind, who barely kept up. Emmett marveled at women’s strength and capabilities when the child tripped and she kept him from falling to the ground without losing speed.

“Keep up Tommy,” she said while almost running toward home.

No time to eat breakfast, Emmett went to the kitchen and poured water into the coffee pot. He added kindling to the stove and started up the fire.

He then washed his face and went to get his bag. If it were the same illness he’d seen as of late, the entire family could be stricken in a matter of days. Emmett feared for the youngest child. The little ones were usually hit the worst.

Finally a few minutes later, after swallowing hot coffee, he made his way to the Beard’s home.

* * *

Several days later, his brother Evan and his wife Aurora arrived. Aurora, who was as beautiful as she was outspoken, never ceased to entertain Emmett. Admittedly, he’d allowed his sister-in-law to think he didn’t particularly care for her as it made for a more interesting interaction between them.

Evan announced they’d come to visit for a few days so that Aurora could meet with several wives in town to discuss the opening of a seamstress shop and to see any newly arrived merchandise. After giving Emmett a smile and a light hug, Aurora went directly to the spare bedroom to unpack.

“I’m glad to see you brother. There is grippe that is affecting entire families. Haven’t seen anything like it in years.”

His brother, who’d served as Laurel’s doctor for years prior to Emmett arriving, frowned at the news. “I remember the same thing happened several years back. A new family arrived bringing it with them. They were so ill, I had to keep people away from the clinic for several weeks. The youngest member of that family, a girl, died.”

“I’m afraid of that. This latest family has a young child.”

“How are you feeling?” Evan studied him with the practiced eyes of a physician. “You seem sallow.”

Emmett shrugged. “Lack of rest and when I do lie down, it’s never long enough.”

Someone knocked at the door and he motioned to it. “Do you miss it?”

His brother chuckled. “Actually at times I do.” He went to the door before Emmett could and opened it.

The same boy from the day before stood at the door looking up at Evan. “Dr. Jones?” It was obvious the kid expected Emmett.

“What’s the message Billy?” Evan said patiently.

“My sister fell down. She’s screamin’ and can’t move,” the boy said pointing to the left. “She fell out of the tree.”

Evan blew out a breath. “Does your Mama know you’re out there climbing that tree again?”

“No sir.” Billy took a sudden interest in his shoes.

After grabbing the medical bag that was always by the door on a narrow table, Evan motioned for Emmett to stay. “Come on Billy, show me where your sister is. And then you’re going to run as fast as you can and find your Mama.”

Emmett watched out the window as Evan and Billy climbed onto the bench at the front of the wagon and hurried off.

“Where is he going?” Aurora appeared at his side. “We just got here and already he’s got something to do.” She frowned for a long moment watching her husband disappear and then turned to him. “I hope you have tea.”

“Billy’s sister fell out of a tree. Yes ma’am I have tea,” Emmett replied.

Aurora didn’t move, her gaze downward. It was then Emmett realized he’d left the telegram from Lady Price on the side table.

Moving slowly, his sister-in-law looked up at him. “You sent for a bride?” Her voice held a strange unbelieving tone.

Emmett cleared his throat. “Not exactly.”

“I don’t mean to pry, but from what it states here, Lady Price is contacting you about a bride. Did you respond?” This time she placed her hand on his forearm and leaned forward, her gaze searching his face.

“I did. Why are you looking a me like that?”