"That's far too generous. I should pay him nonsense." "The man owns half the timber in the county. This cost him nothing but the labor, and his men need to keep busy anyway." Martha patted Faith's hand. Let people help you, dear. There's no shame in accepting kindness.
3 Days before school was to begin, Faith and Emma moved from the boarding house to their new home. The cabin was humble, but now held touches that made it there as a patchwork quilt on the bed they would share until Faith could afford a separate one for Emma. Wild flowers in a jar on the table and Emma's few treasured toys arranged on a shelf. That evening, as Faith was preparing a simple supper of beans and cornbread, a knock sounded at their door. Emmer raced to answer it before Faith could stop her.
"Mr. Yates!" the child exclaimed. Faith hurriedly wiped her hands on her apron and moved to the doorway. Yates Turner stood on their small porch, hat in hand, looking somewhat uncertain a change from his usual confident demeanor. Beside him was a younger man holding a large wooden crate.
"Good evening, Mrs. Summers," Yates said, his deep voice sending an unexpected tremor through Faith. "I hope we're not intruding." Not at all, Faith replied, though she was acutely aware of her disheveled appearance after a day of moving and unpacking. Please come in. Yates stepped inside, followed by his companion.
This is Zach, one of my hands. We brought a few things that might be useful for your new home. Zach set the crate on the table at Yates's direction. Inside, Faith discovered a sack of flour, sugar, coffee, dried apples, a small ham, and most surprising books. Several children's books with colorful illustrations and three novels that appeared new.
Mr. Turner, this is far too generous, Faith protested, even as Emma excitedly examined the picture books. The provisions are practical winters coming, and the store sometimes runs low. As for the books, he shrugged almost sheepishly. I ordered them from Denver months ago for the ranch library, but we've plenty.
Thought they might be welcome here. Faith touched the spine of little women with longing. Reading had been her escape and comfort during the difficult months after Thomas died, but she'd been forced to sell most of their books to finance their journey west. They're very welcome, she admitted softly. Thank you.
Yates nodded, seeming pleased. How are you settling in? Any problems with the cabin? None. It's snug and sound.
Your men did a wonderful job stacking the firewood. Good. Good. He glanced around the small space, his tall frame making it seem even more compact. I also came to invite you both to Sunday dinner at the ranch.