Bess gently kissed the tear-stained cheek of the tender mother, and pressed her lips against the soft, white hair, as together they went into the house. How cozy everything seemed! The cheerful fire in the grate, the comfortable chairs and couches, the beautiful pictures and rugs, gave everything a ‘homey’ look. Bess was surprised to find such evidences of refinement, wealth and comfort here—away out in Montana and on an Indian Reservation! Her surprises were not to end here, however, for she would soon discover that many, many of the families scattered all over this vast reservation were equally as comfortable and thrifty.
Mrs. West led the way to Bess’ room, and telling her that dinner would be ready in a half hour, left her.
Little ejaculations of happy surprises escaped the girl as she glanced about the room. Everything was creamy white and pale blue. The large brass bed was draped with soft blue and white, the furniture was white, and several comfortable willow rockers invited to rest. In one corner was a wide couch with numerous pretty cushions. A few choice pictures adorned the walls. Surely, the one who displayed so much taste in fitting up this dainty room must have been used to refinement! It was so different from what she had expected to find. James had told her of it all, and yet she was surprised. She surmised this had been Helen’s room.
As she hurried about, getting on her fresh, clean clothes, she continued her appraisal of her room. “I love you already,” she kept saying to herself.
During dinner not a word had been said concerning the patient, and Bess was interested in hearing James and Henry discussing the affairs of the ranch—how the wheat was growing, what a wonderful crop of hay was promised, the oats, too, never stood so well before at this time of year; the spring calves were all getting along fine; up to date there had been, as nearly as could be counted, about ninety colts.
Several times the girl became so engrossed in these new, strange topics that she forgot her meal, and Mrs. West could scarcely refrain a smile at her wide, wondering eyes.
As Bess’ hostess arose from the table she said: “You must all be worn out with your experience of today, and I advise early hours.”
Henry came over to his mother’s side, and kissing her gently on the brow, told her that he would spend the night looking after Mr. Davis.
But she said: “No, dear, you go to bed and rest, and when I need you I will call you.” Finally she persuaded him to consent to retire, after he and James had had their smoke.
Bess’ heart went out to this great, dark man, as she saw his gentleness. She thought that any man who so reverenced his mother must be worthy of greatest confidence and trust.