There were just enough clouds to color the sunset in brilliant shades of orange, red, yellow and white. What a wonderful picture this would make, she thought. Her mind was on the sunset and she did not hear the gentle hooves of a horse stepping around the corner of the house. “Good evening Señorita,” LaPree said tipping his hat with his hand. “What are you doing here you scoundrel? And don’t be referring to me as a señorita, you know I am a married woman!” “Ah yes, that is what I have come this evening to talk to you about. You have not heard a word from your man, what is his name, Robert, yes, that is right Robert. But he has not posted you a letter since his leaving. Do you not find this strange? You know, I don’t think your Robert is comin’ back, so I thinks for me to call you Señorita is correct.” “I’m telling you LaPree get off my place!” “Now, now Señorita Malinda do not be so hasty – it will not be as you say ‘your place’ in another month or so, but I have a solution to your problem.
