Page 46 of Eleanor’s Earrings

“The wagon tilts,” Lucy complained.

“It does not,” Rebecca said.

“It tilts toward Eleanor.”

“That is because Eleanor has chosen the tightest spot to sleep,” Lydia said.

“I am the eldest.”

Caroline looked up. “Earlier you said being eldest prevents fatigue. Does it also squash you flat under wagons?”

“Yes.”

“Remarkable.”

Martha pointed toward the bedrolls. “Grace needs the dry side. Lucy beside her. Lydia, stop putting your feet on Charlotte.”

“My feet have nowhere else to go.”

“Try keeping them attached to your legs,” Charlotte said.

Nathaniel’s voice came from above. “Is everyone alive?”

Eight women went silent.

Eleanor peeked out from under the wagon. “Why?”

“I heard shouting.”

“We are arranging spots to sleep.”

He stared at her. “I have heard cavalry units settle for the night with less conflict.”

“We have more baggage.”

Lydia called, “And better hair.”

Nathaniel laughed.

Eleanor lowered her voice. “If you tell the company we are fighting over blankets, I will deny it.”

“I heard nothing.”

He started away, then looked back. “For what it is worth, the wagon does tilt slightly toward your side.”

Seven sisters burst into laughter before Eleanor could answer.

*****

AT THE MIDDAY HALT, Nathaniel found Eleanor arguing with Rebecca.

“I am not arguing,” Eleanor said.

Rebecca looked at Nathaniel. “She is.”

“What is the dispute?”

“She thinks I should stop checking the repaired reach,” Eleanor said.