Page 138 of Eleanor’s Earrings

He was forced to ask her questions.

She enjoyed this enormously.

“What mileage are you planning tomorrow?” he asked.

“Eight to ten.”

“Depending on?”

“Ground, animals, weather, and whether Mr. Daugherty discovers another grievance.”

Nathaniel nodded. “Reasonable.”

Eleanor smiled.

“What?”

“You asked me.”

“Yes.”

“And accepted my answer.”

“Yes.”

“This is a very satisfying injury.”

Nathaniel stared at her.

She laughed.

“I nearly broke my shoulder.”

“And yet good has come from it.”

“Remind me of this when I recover.”

“I will.”

“You are becoming arrogant.”

“I learned from a wagon master.”

“That is slander.”

“Documentation exists.”

Nathaniel shook his head. “What about the descent?”

“Caroline and Rebecca will take the Whitaker wagons. Mr. Hall will check the rear ropes. Thomas will scout the turn.”

“And you?”

“Lead.”

Nathaniel looked at her for a long moment.

The humor disappeared.