wanted for a train robbery and a bank job with Jenkins during the time after you left Vernal.”
“Ben pointed that out to me. I was far from civilization during those holdups. I wonder if Doc’s testimony will help.”
Morgan smiled. “I think he’d do just about anything for you. Made me jealous a few times. He’ll vouch for you risking your life to keep me alive and your desire to start fresh. As soon as we get the letters, I’ll stick them in a lock box. And don’t forget the reverend. A character reference from him is crucial to your defense. Mama is writing one too.”
“What about the seven years I rode with the gang?” Casey said. “That’s fact, Morgan, and I don’t believe any judge would believe I did nothing during that time. Besides, I simply ignored what they were doing.”
“I’m researching those things. Give me time. Our case has to be perfect, no room for error. I’m looking at the charges from every angle.”
“I’m just nervous. The only other person who could testify on my behalf is Rose.”
“Rose?”
“She owns a brothel in Denver. Not exactly a model citizen.” She stood from the parlor sofa and walked across the room. “I tried life her way once, but I couldn’t handle one night. I should be glad Jenkins didn’t sell me to her.”
“You don’t have to tell me any of this.”
“I know, but I’m sure the thought has crossed your mind.”
“What I want is you and me as man and wife. And you won’t marry me until I have your name cleared and Jenkins behind bars.” He attempted to sound light, but so much weighed on his mind.
What about the other crimes of which Casey had no proof of innocence? The whole explanation surrounding her alleged criminal acts rested in her own credibility. And he had to prove it. He’d lost Kathleen. He couldn’t lose Casey.
*****
Casey finished ironing the last shirt for the reverend. She inspected it again before hanging it with the others. The overflowing basket stacked with clothing for Sarah, the reverend, and herself had taken most of the morning to finish. Glancing around the kitchen, she laughed aloud at the articles hanging from every peg and knob available. A bit of breeze blew in through the back door and played with one of Sarah’s gowns as though some invisible lady danced inside. My, how Sarah would love to see this.
Periodically she checked on Sarah, who had tossed fitfully during the night. Earlier, she’d requested laudanum and now rested under its soothing effects. Casey saw her friend’s strength dwindle and the need for pain medication increase. True to his word, the reverend remained close by his wife’s side. Together they savored their precious remaining time together. Even now, he wrote his sermon by her bedside, where he waited for her to waken and share whatever dream had lured her from the sleeping hours.
Stepping out onto the back porch, Casey drank in the fall freshness. Yellow mums nodded in the late morning sun. She loved this time of year as though it were a resting time before winter. She wondered if Sarah felt the same.
More than eight months had passed since she’d left Jenkins. She wanted to believe he’d given up on finding her and that some other woman had replaced her and caused him to forget his hatred.
A knock at the door interrupted her musings, and she hurried to answer it.
Ben stood in the doorway, hat in hand. The lines around his eyes indicated his weariness. “Can we talk?”
“Yes, of course. Come on in.”
Apprehension washed over her. She stood back as he made his way inside and on to the parlor, where she offered him a chair. “I’d rather stand, if you don’t mind.”
“Ben, am I in trouble?”
“I’m not sure. Got word on recent activity of Jenkins and his gang.”
“Where are they?”
“Last seen in New Mexico. Rumor is Jenkins and Tim split. A couple of the men went with Tim.”
A few faces crossed her mind—those loyal to her brother. “I’m not surprised. Jenkins and Tim barely tolerated each other. Tim doesn’t like taking orders. Never did. Where did you hear this?”
“Lawman from Austin. He’s staying at the boardinghouse tonight. Probably best for you to lie low until he rides out.”
She studied his face and the way he worried the brim of his hat. “What else, Ben?”
“Rumors are Jenkins refused to give up his search for you. Tim wanted it ended.”