Frontier Highlander Vow of Love (American Wilderness Series Romance Book 4) Page 3

  Artis had learned numerous skills working on the plantation, including how to care for and exercise the plantation horses and how to spin and weave hemp used for cotton bale bagging and rope making.

  It had been so long since she held a quill and signed her name, her heart raced for a moment wondering if she could remember how. But for the last few months, she’d dreamed of this moment daily and she wasn’t going to spoil it with self-doubt. She gripped the quill a little tighter and with a confident hand and a bit of flourish wrote ‘Artis MacKay’ on the document.

  “Thank you Miss MacKay,” Roberts said, “you have been a faithful and hard-working servant. You are now a free woman. My wife and I wish you the best of fortune in your future. Here is the deed to your land, located near Boonesborough, Kentucky. It is part of a larger tract of land that I have divided into several acreages. As soon as you arrive, take this document to the Land Office there, and register it with the Land Commissioner Mister Simmons. He should be able to direct you to its location. I have not seen it, as I acquired it in payment of a man’s debt to me, but Simmons has assured me that it has good timber and water and will make a fine homestead. Simmons is also selling the remaining small tracts of land for me.”

  “Aye, thank ye Mister Roberts. I’ll be sure to find Mister Simmons.”

  “A group of settlers in town are leaving tomorrow morning from the inn for the new state of Kentucky. I suggest you travel with them for your protection. Perhaps there will be a wagon you can ride in.”

  “Thank ye Mister Roberts. Yer kindness over the term of my indenture was most appreciated. I have heard from others that some landowners are na as benevolent as ye and yer wife have been.”

  “We are compelled by Christian charity to kind-heartedness. I regret that I am also compelled by necessity to employ the use of servants and slaves on a plantation of this size.”

  “Perhaps ye could start payin’ the workers a fair wage,” Artis suggested.

  “Maybe someday, when I’ve paid off my debts,” Roberts said, leaning back in his leather chair and sighing. “Until then though, I must travel to North Carolina this week for a new group of servants.” He rested his clasped hands on his ample belly.

  Artis lowered her head and looked at her well-worn boots, solemnly thinking about the men and women who would soon arrive here. No doubt, many would be her fellow countrymen, forced to give away seven years of their life. At least they would be working for a fair man who treated his servants and slaves with compassion.

  “I regret that circumstance forced a young woman of your obvious education and charming appearance to spend the first years of her womanhood in servitude.”

  “I am not a servant anymore,” Artis said adamantly. “I never was really. I was just forced by circumstance to work here in exchange for a chance at finding a new home and a future.”

  “You are right, of course. And at twenty-two, you are still young and lovely enough to marry and bear children. If you can just learn to control your outbursts of temper, I know you will find happiness in Kentucky.”

  “If I get angry, it’s because someone has given me good reason to be,” Artis said, setting her jaw and tossing her hair behind her back. “I’ll na hold my tongue when someone deserves to be set straight.”

  “I know, I know. And men especially, often say and do foolish things,” he counseled like her father had long ago. “And, some men will do and say cruel things. Like that evil man you spoke of who murdered your poor mother.”

  Artis peered down at her feet, unwilling to let him see the pain that still made her eyes burn with tears she refused to release.

  “But remember this, not all men are like that man. Now, I don’t often give my coin away, but time and again, you worked as hard as two servants. And did a better job of it too. I want you to accept these coins as a bonus toward your new life. I wish it were more, but perhaps it will be enough to give you a new start.”

  Artis glanced up, liking the sound of his words. A new start. “My thanks to ye, Sir.” She reached out for the coins, surprised at the weight of the pouch. “You are too generous.” She wondered if it would be enough to buy a pistol, lead, and powder. She would need a weapon if she were going to survive in Kentucky by herself.

  “You’ve earned every penny of that Artis.”

  She couldn’t quarrel with the man about that. Her parents had taught her to do a job well and without complaining and, unlike some of the other surly servants, she’d made a point to do just that ever since her arrival at the Robert’s plantation.

  “Now if you would be kind enough to send the next servant in line into my office, I will leave you to the good guidance of the Almighty and bid you farewell.”

  “Goodbye, Mister Roberts. And thank ye,” Artis said. She would almost miss the man.

  Artis’ chest swelled with elation and she smiled at the realization that she was now a free woman. Free to find her own happiness, and as Roberts called it, a new start.

  With a full heart, she turned toward the door, opened it, and breathed in the smell of freedom.

  As she stepped out, a dazzling shaft of morning sunlight fell on her. But its radiance couldn’t compete with the joy on her own beaming face.

  Chapter 3

  Fort Logan, St. Asaph’s, Kentucky

  After covering the near seventy mile distance to Fort Logan over a full day of hard riding to the north, Bear arrived with Ambrose. The two dismounted and led their mounts through the fort’s gates.

  The fort, an imposing structure impenetrable to arrows and rifles, had never fallen during an attack. Although not nearly as large as the settlement at Fort Boonesborough, numerous homes and a few businesses sprouted out from the fort in all directions.

  Several men waved their welcome toward Ambrose and he returned their greeting. Bear knew few men here besides the Colonel. Both he and Sam had visited the fort when they returned from their trip to Boonesborough for building supplies, but they only stayed overnight. Sam had been anxious to pick up Catherine and Little John—who had been staying with their brother Stephen, his wife, daughters, and new son Samuel—and get his own family back home.

  Bear’s first order of business was to care for his gelding Camel. He led the tired horse into the center of the bustling stockade.

  “The stable and corral pen are located over there on the east side of the Fort, next to the blacksmith’s,” Ambrose explained, pointing. “I’ll take your mount with mine and see that he’s well cared for.”

  “Yer kindness is appreciated. As ye can see, he’s tall and stout, so he’ll need extra feed.”

  “After carrying a man of your size all day, I’d say he needs double the ration of most horses,” Ambrose joshed.

  “Aye, like myself, he’s a big eater to be sure. I’ll be seein’ ye later then,” Bear said. “I know where the Colonel’s office is.” Over the course of the day, Bear had decided he rather liked the short, but stocky, Welshman.

  He strode through the stockade and made his way to the blockhouse where Logan’s quarters and office were located. He passed a group of men bringing in gunpowder in drum-shaped kegs that fit snugly against the horses’ flanks. The keg hoops were made of saplings, rather than metal, to prevent an accidental spark. The precious powder was typically stored in an earthen repository disguised as a root cellar. It didn’t surprise him that Logan would keep a substantial supply of gunpowder on hand for the fort. Being prepared before an enemy strikes is often half the battle.

  The Colonel was considered to be one of the best rough and tumble fighters in Kentucky and Bear often heard numerous stories recounting his bravery in action. Yet, the man tended to be quiet and prudent, unlike his fellow frontiersman Daniel Boone, known for his oratorical flourish and gregarious nature. Bear held great respect for both men.

  Benjamin Logan’s imposing figure—just over six-feet tall—towered over most fellows, but not Bear. He stood a good six inches taller and weighed about fifty pounds more than Logan. Af
ter he entered the dimly lit room, he peered down at the Colonel who leaned against an artfully carved pine desk reading a paper.

  “Good evenin’, Colonel. Ye needed to see me?”

  Looking up, Logan said, “Ah, Daniel MacKee! Otherwise known as Bear—a fitting nickname for a giant like yourself.”

  “Aye, the name does seem to suit me. Given to me by me step-mum, Sam’s mother.”

  “Are you well? And your brother Sam?”

  “Aye, we are fightin’ fit.”

  “And Sam’s wife and son?”

  “Catherine is with child, but she’s na due for some time. Little John is growin’ taller and smarter by the day.”

  “Did you and Isaac have a trouble-free journey?”

  “It was uneventful, and the weather remained pleasant, so aye, we did.”

  “I thank you for coming so swiftly,” Logan said. “Please have a seat.”

  He fell into the closest chair, appreciating the chance to rest his tired back. The wooden chair squeaked under his weight as he regarded Logan. The man’s eyes held a sheen of purpose. What was on the Colonel’s mind?

  “No doubt you’re wondering what my reason is for summoning you.”

  “Aye, that I am. And I’m hopin’ it is na further trouble with the natives.”

  “No, we were able to negotiate a peace with the Shawnee. We had to swear that we would never raid their settlements again, and they did the same. I also apologized for the slaying of Chief Moluntha by one of my overzealous men. The last Shawnee raid happened in retaliation for that. Hopefully, this peace will be permanent. I would hate to lose more good men to fighting.”

  “News of your peace treaty is most welcomed, Colonel. And now that we have peace with the Cherokee as well, Kentucky will hopefully be free of any further strife and bloodshed.”

  “That is my fervent hope as well.”

  “Then what is your reason for summonin’ me here?”

  “Governor Garrard has asked that each of the settlements send a delegate to Boonesborough for a special-called assembly.”

  “For what purpose?”

  “The delegates will discuss and advise the Governor on a number of matters important to Kentucky’s future—among them bills to preserve game, arrange for improved roads, and provide for better breeding of horses.”

  His brows drew together in confusion. “But, Colonel, what does that have to do with me?”

  “Bear, the last time we met, you impressed me as a wise and well-spoken man. I’ve found that most Scotsmen are also well-educated.”

  “I owe my education to many hours spent with my nose in books in front of a peat fire as a youth. I owe what wisdom I have to God.”

  “You are also a single man, without your own homestead and family to guard,” Logan answered.

  “All true, though I am hopin’ to change that fact in the near future.”

  “Are you engaged then?”

  “Nay, but I plan to be soon.”

  “Who is the lucky lady?”

  “I do na know.”

  Logan’s laughter filled the room.

  Bear sat up straighter and glared at Logan, frowning. He didn’t understand why the man found what he’d said so humorous. “I have not yet met the lass,” he added quickly.

  “Bear, usually men meet a woman, then decide to become engaged.”

  “I know she’s out there,” he said, still annoyed. “I will find her.”

  “I wish you God’s speed with that, Sir,” Logan answered. “Perhaps your assignment, if you will accept it, will aide in your quest. Bear, I want you to be Fort Logan’s and St. Elspeth’s delegate at the Governor’s assembly.”

  He was too startled by the suggestion to offer any objection. Being caught off guard did not happen to him often, but he was now.

  “I can see you are surprised. You shouldn’t be. The Governor has asked for men of character and the stamina for hard work. You strike me as just that kind of man.”

  “Och, Colonel, I am honored by yer words and by yer suggestion that I serve in that capacity, but I do na have experience with government.”

  As the last of the day’s sunlight disappeared, Logan lit a candle and its rays brightened the dim room. The Colonel took a seat behind his large desk covered with several spread out maps and other documents. “Bear, every delegate sent to meet with the Governor will have little or no experience with government. Experience is not what’s needed. What is needed are intelligent men who care about Kentucky’s future,” Logan said, vigorously tapping the tip of his index finger against one of the maps of Kentucky.

  Bear glanced up from the finger to look directly into Logan’s pale blue eyes. “Men like you, Colonel.”

  “My career in government is over. As you no doubt know, after serving in Kentucky’s House of Representatives for four years, I lost the recent race for Governor. On the first ballot, I received the votes of 21 electors, Garrard received 17, and Todd received 14. Our new state constitution did not specify whether a plurality or a majority vote was required and a second vote had to be held between Garrard and myself to see who could get a majority. Unfortunately, most of Todd's electors supported Garrard, a more skilled orator than I, giving him a majority.”

  “Do ye support the Governor now?”

  “I do, but only so far. What’s important at the present time is supporting Kentucky. That’s where you come in, Bear.”

  “Nay, I’m afraid me temperament would na be suitable for such an undertakin. Scots tend to be forthright—so much so we are often blunt.”

  “Just agree to serve in this one specially called assembly of delegates and I will be forever in your debt, Sir.”

  Bear’s resolve faltered. His mind wavered, weighing what Logan had said. “Perhaps a wee bit of whiskey would help me decide.” What he really wanted was a moment to think about the decision while Logan fetched the decanter and a couple of pewter cups from a side cabinet. And the whiskey would be refreshing after his long journey.

  “Oh, I forgot to tell you one detail,” Logan said, his voice brightening as he poured whiskey into the two pewter cups. “And this may interest you since you mentioned earlier that you were hoping to find a wife and have a home in the near future.” Logan handed a cup to Bear. “The Governor’s wife, Elizabeth Mountjoy, is using this occasion as an excuse for a party.”

  Bear swallowed the whiskey in one gulp. “Is that really the lady’s name?” he asked, incredulous.

  Logan regarded him with amusement, and added more whiskey to both their cups. “Indeed it is, or was, her maiden name. I believe it actually refers to a mountain of joy.”

  Bear’s mouth twitched with mirth and then, unable to control himself, his laughter rippled through the room.

  Logan joined in, the sound of his laugh deep and jovial.

  “Tell me more about this party,” Bear said, still chuckling. “Will there be women there?”

  “Invitations to Mrs. Garrard’s ball were carried, along with the request from Governor Garrard for delegates, to all the interior forts. I believe fifteen men and six women will make the journey from St. Elspeth’s. The women will sport their finest clothes. Unfortunately, all the women going from here are married, but I’m certain some unmarried women will attend from other settlements.”

  Now Bear was intrigued.

  Logan continued, “Last time the Governor held one of these events, abundant toddies kept the party going for several days.”

  “Well, those two facts do sweeten the brew a wee bit. And I would enjoy visitin’ my brother William and his wife Kelly and their new wee bairn.”

  “He’s sheriff of Boonesborough, is he not?”

  “Aye, and a mighty fine one too!” Bear was proud of what William had already achieved.

  “I wouldn’t be a bit surprised if he wasn’t a delegate too,” Logan speculated. “Now, why don’t we discuss this further over dinner? My wife Ann has prepared a pork roast.”

  The delicious fragrance of the meat
cooking, in the home adjoining Logan’s office, had teased Bear’s stomach for some time. Did he also smell pie wafting through the air now too? He loved pie. His stomach grumbled in earnest.

  Logan chuckled. “I can hear your stomach agreeing that it’s time we enjoyed something to eat.”

  “Aye. It’s time,” Bear agreed.

  It was time to enjoy many things.

  Chapter 4

  The size of Boonesborough surprised Artis. It seemed like a town that bloomed right out of the wilderness—for that was all she’d seen on their journey here. The day after she regained her freedom, she left Virginia with a group of settlers headed for Kentucky. The group soon passed through the Cumberland Gap and followed the Wilderness Trail north through miles and miles of pristine verdant forests and colorful rocky hills. The breathtaking scenery was the first she’d seen since arriving in the colonies that could compare to her beloved Highlands. The blue-green mountains reminded her of home.

  But the air smelled completely different here. In Scotland, she mostly remembered the distinct salty scent of the nearby ocean, the earthy aroma of peat, and the woody and mossy fragrance of heather. On the Kentucky frontier, the sharp smell of pine and other woods was most dominant, mixed with the fresh fragrance of a nearly blue grass.

  As they rode the wagons into the bustling town, the air’s fragrance slowly changed, becoming unpleasant. She wrinkled her nose at the pungent odor of hides piled high on carts, horse manure scattered everywhere on the street, unwashed men, and bones cast into the street for dogs. But, now and then, she also caught the pleasant scent of fresh lumber stacked on wagons, several gardens, pots of blooming flowers, and to her astonishment, a bakery.

  As soon as they reached what appeared to be the center of town, she bid the kind people she had traveled with goodbye. They all needed to find places for their families to camp and she was too impatient to wait for them.

  Straight away, she set out to find the Land Office. After getting directions from a stranger, she hurried toward it, carrying all she owned in her linen bag, the same one she’d carried from Scotland.