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

established. The preac her and his wife are salt of the earth people, and I count them as my closest friends. Helena is progressive with its school system. We also have a mercantile and general store.
    There may be more beautiful places on earth, but I can’t believe there is one more beautiful than Montana. Our winters can be harsh, but cattle survive without my having to purchase additional forage for them.
    I can’t think of anything else to tell you. I have tried to be honest and forthright in my description, and I anxiously await your decision regarding further correspondence.
    Sincerely,
    Case Jamison
    He put the letter in the mail, and settled into his normal routine while he waited for the response. In revealing his address Number 076 could now write directly to him, shortening the delivery time. If she chose to provide her address, the total time required would be halved.
    * * *
    Carrie’s mother was upset at her non-appearance dinner on the night Mr. Chalmers was invited. 
    “I was very disappointed when you did not appear for dinner last night. Mr. Chalmers was also, as he had looked forward to talking to you. He is willing to give you another chance, however. I think it is most gracious of him to do so after you showed such disrespect for him.”
    “Mother, I intended no disrespect and I am not interested in his giving me another chance, as you put it. I am twenty-three years old, and I’m an adult. 
    “I hoped it would not come to this, but I have spoken again with Sue Ann, and I will be moving my belongings to her place. I think it is time I began living on my own, wit hout the dependence on you and Papa.”
    “Your Papa is not going to like this one bit, Carrie,” her mother said.
    “I’m hoping he realizes I am a grown woman and am capable of making my own way. I will tell him of my decision when he comes home.”
    That night…
    “Papa, I need to talk to you about something that is important to me. Can we do it now?”
    “Of course, Punkin, what is troubling you so much ? Maybe I can fix it,” her father said.
    “Mama is convinced that I need to marry that Mr. Chalmers. I don’t intend to , and don’t wish to argue with her about it anymore. I am going to share a living space with Sue Ann Hicks. I love you and Mama, but I am unable to convince her she doesn’t need her to find a suitor for me. I don’t have any idea what she thinks is going to happen to me, but I am not interested in that Mr. Chalmers, in any manner. Mama is convinced I am doomed to be a spinster if I don’t. That may be, Papa, but it will be my choice.”
    “Now wait a minute,” her father said. “Moving away from your home is a mighty big step over a little disagre ement with your Ma.”
    “It’s not a little disagreement. She says as long as I live in this house, I must do as she says. I have done everything she’s asked of me. I have always helped with the others; I help out in the garden, and with the cooking. I can’t do more, and Sue Ann’s place is my only alternative.”
    “ Aww, honey, I don’t want you to move. Maybe I can talk to her. Will you give me the chance to do that? Please?”
    “For you, Papa, I will wait,” she said.
    The next day…
    Another letter ! This was quicker than the last time. This is not from Kansas City. I wonder why? She waited until she was in her room to open her letter. He told them to give me his name and address. I’m glad. Case Jamison. Case is a different name. I’ve never seen it before. Jamison has a nice Irish sound to it. He’s from the Montana Territory. Helena.  That is clear across the country. He said part of the trip would be by stagecoach, since they don’t have a railroad yet.
    The Sioux raided them again! I’m glad he wasn’t hurt.  Well, he didn’t try to sugar coat things. No railroad, Indians, outlaws. It’s here, warts and all. I like the way he describes the preacher and his wife.
    His ranch sounds sizable. Seven cowboys. I wonder how many