The Montana Rancher's Bride (New Montana Brides) Read Online Free PDF Page A

something that doesn’t put everyone to sleep. What’s up with you?”
    “I had to see the sheriff and pi ck up some cartridges. We had a little dust-up with the Sioux and I need to replenish our supply. I wanted to check on the mail too.”
    “Anyone hurt?” asked Jack.
    “Not on our side,” answered Case.
    “How’s your thing with the lady coming along?”
    “I had a nice letter today, the second one, actually. I asked Letty to tell me what she thinks of it.”
    “Well, that made her day,” Jack said drily.
    “Is that a nice thing to say about your so ul mate?” Letty asked from the doorway. “You know part of my role as the wife of the minister is to see to the welfare of our members. This man came to me looking to take advantage of my vast knowledge in the selection of a suitable wife.”
    “Is that what you call your nosiness now?” Jack asked.
    “Pay him no attention, Case. He’s just jealous because you asked me and not him.  Now, about your letter. I think this woman is a winner. She sounds intelligent, and knows what she wants and what she doesn’t want, and is willing to go after it. Many girls would simply cave in to satisfy their parents, but she doesn’t do that.
    “She has experienced sorrow, and empathizes with you about your parents. Most of all, I like that she is a believer and is pleased you are also. She doesn’t appear to be only concerned with her problems, but is interested in yours too.  I say go for it.
    “Now, do you want to let Jack see it before his curiosity kills him?” she asked.
    Cased laughed . He genuinely liked this couple. They had a great marriage, and shared an interest in the welfare of their friends. “Might as well, I guess,” he said “I’d hate to be the cause of his early demise.”
    Letty handed him the letter. As he read it, she asked, “Is this the first letter?”
    “It’s the second one. The first one was her answer to my ad.  This is an answer to the one I wrote.”
    “It pains me to say this,” Jack said, “but I agree with my wife.  It is a nice letter from a strong, educated woman.  
    “Have you received any other answers to your ad?” Jack asked.
    “I had two others, but I liked this one best of the three,” Case answered.
    “I can see why. Do you have any idea where she’s from?”
    “Not a clue,” Case answered. “I am going authorize the paper to give her my name and address, when I answer this one.”
    “Good for you,” Letty said. “I think you’re ready to move on in this.”
     

 
    chapter Eight
    This Is Where I Live
    Editor
    The Matrimonial Bulletin. My ad number is 920. This is my authorization to release my name and address to Number 976.
    Thank You,
    Case Jamison
    Case included the note to the editor of the Matrimonial Bulletin, along with one to Number 976.
    Dear Number 976,
    As you will note, I have authorized the editor to release my name and address to you. I do this in order for you to determine if you have an interest in further correspondence with me.
    I live on a large ranch about five miles from Helena in the Montana Territory. Helena is a mining town of 2500 to 3000 people. In addition to mining, Helena is a commerce center for the area. We are on a main stagecoach line. The railroad has not made its way to Montana Territory yet, but we are hopeful.
    I am compelled to be honest with you regarding problems with the Sioux Indian tribe. As late as this past week, we were raided by a party of Sioux who were after our cattle. We managed to drive them off, and none of the cowboys were hurt. 
    I have seven cowhands involved in the day-to-day oper ation of the ranch. The ranch has belonged to my family since my family moved here from Texas.
    As with any mining town on the frontier, there is a certain lawless element in the population. Since a sheriff was hired, this has diminished, but is still a small part of it.
    I have previously mentioned our church. My family has been regular attendees since it was