The Montana Doctor's Bride (New Brides of Montana) Read Online Free PDF Page B

close on the house.  It is in a prime location.  I think you’re missing a good opportunity.”
     
    “I may well be.  It is in a good location but the other is more suitable to my purposes.  I do thank you for your help.”  He shook hands and left the bank to complete his transaction with Harry Simpson.
     
    He paid the rent to Simpson, and told him he would like to move in as soon as possible.
     
    “Anytime you’re ready, Doctor.  You have the key and it’s your place.” 

Chapter 8:  Excitement In Helena
     
    My Dear Elizabeth,
     
    I hope this finds you well and happy.  Having concluded my first three days in Montana, I am at peace with myself.  I have taken a six month contract on a house near the center of Helena.  It has a nice sized living room, a kitchen and two bedrooms.  It will make a nice office as well as home.  The furniture is sturdy and the dining room table will serve as my operating table.  I will take my meals in the kitchen.  It also has a small barn suitable for keeping a horse and buggy.  I will be moving in tomorrow.
     
    I have made some nice contacts, having met the proprietor of the general store, and the local saloon keeper from whom I rented the house.  I also met the banker, but he doesn’t seem to be the type of fellow with whom I will be friends.  I do believe he tried to take advantage of this poor medico from the east.  I had been forewarned, however.
     
    I continue to marvel at the sheer beauty of the area.  I wish you could see this wonderful country.  I think I will take a carriage from the livery stable and take a tour of the countryside.  I look forward to seeing the places where gold is being extracted.
     
    As he finished the letter, he heard the unmistakable sound of gunfire, a sound he had hoped never to hear again.  He looked out the window and saw two men leaving the Last Chance Saloon in a run.  They mounted horses that had been tied to the hitching post in front and rode off into the dark, hightailing it out of town. 
     
    Shortly thereafter, there was a knock at his door.  He stood by the door, and called out, “Yes?  Who is it?”
     
    I heard gunshots a few minutes ago from down the street, and someone’s at the door.  I fear my services are needed.
     
    Until the next time, I remain,
    Your friend,
    Carter 
     
     
    “Doctor, there’s been a shooting at the Last Chance.  Mister Simpson would appreciate it if you came, an excited voice said from the hallway.
     
    “I’ll be there shortly,” he answered.  As he turned to get his shoes and his bag, he heard footsteps retreating down the hallway.
     
    After dressing hurriedly, he went to the saloon.  Harry Simpson came to him.  “There’s been a shooting, and one of the miners is hurt bad.  I had the boys take him to my office.  I would consider it a favor if you would take a look at him.”
     
    “Yes, of course.  Can you get hot water?  Show me where he is.”
     
    Simpson called out to someone to put water on the stove, then he led the way down the hall to his office,  A scruffy, bearded man, appearing to be about thirty, and wearing the ragged remnants of a Confederate uniform was on the floor.  The blouse of the uniform was soaked in blood.  “Can you clear the desk and put him there?  I will need some more light.”  Men scrambled to get what he needed.
     
    He ripped the old uniform easily.  The entry wound was obvious and was oozing blood.  “Help me roll him over, please.”  Two men jumped to obey.  There was no exit wound.  “The bullet is still in there and it needs to come out.  Mr. Simpson, can I operate here, or can we move him elsewhere?”
     
    “Would a billiards table be better?” asked the saloon keeper.
     
    “Yes, it would be just about the right height,” Carter said.  “Mr. Simpson, you should put something on the table to protect the felt from the blood.”
     
    “Doc, call me Harry, please.  Boys, have one of the girls get a