A Present for Andi

PICTURE #4

by Hunter M.

       Riley sprang up the steps of the Fresno general store. His entry into the establishment was announced by the smart chime of a bell which was fixed above the door.

     "Mr. Garvey!" Riley called out, in search of the clerk.

     "I'll be with you in a minute Mr. Prescott," Garvey answered as he emerged from the back room, toting a large sack of flour.

     Riley walked around the store, examining small articles of goods as he waited. His thoughts, however, were unconsciously drifting to a buzz of conversation being held by two men, standing near the counter.

     "But please, sir, I have no other trade," the first man begged in despair.

     Riley was struck by his singular accent.

     "Well, I'm sorry," the second man spoke, not unkindly " but I have no need for painters. What I need are ranchers."

     The second man turned to leave, but the first thrust out his hand to hinder him.

     "I'm a fast learner, I'd be glad to try whatever work you could give me."

     The second man shook his head.

     "Now!" Riley was startled by the voice of Garvey, "How can I help you Mr. Prescott?"

     Riley turned his attention to the clerk and allowed the remainder of the overheard conversation to melt into the background.

     "I need some paint and brushes."

     Garvey gave a quick nod of acknowledgment and set about his business. He quickly tossed two large paint brushes on the counter and entered the back room to retrieve the desired paint. Color and quantity were soon selected and in short order Riley was seated a top his wagon preparing for the drive home.

     "Sir?"

     Riley removed his hand from the break and jumped off the wagon to address the stranger standing before him.

     The man was neatly attired, although the course material of his garments testified to a meager income. He was young, no more than thirty by appearance, with a somewhat tamed mop of light curly hair and smoky gray eyes that have not of yet lost their boyish look of mischief.

     "What can I do for you Mr. . . .?" Riley asked in a friendly manner.

     "O'Healy, sir. Harry O'Healy."

      Riley quickly perceived him to be the man in the store with the unusual accent.      "Pleased to meet you Mr. O'Healy. I'm Riley Prescott."

       The men exchanged a hearty handshake, followed by the mutual request to be called by their first names.

     After the informal introduction, Harry began to pursue the matter for which he had first addressed Riley.

     "I only just arrived in Fresno—from England, you no doubt guessed—and I find myself badly in need of work."

     Riley didn't guess. Having never met an Englishman before, the young rancher was completely ignorant of the lovely polish a Britt gives to the English language.

     Harry continued. "I'm a painter by trade, and I just happened to notice your stock of supplies. Would you be looking for a man to spare you the trouble of using those brushes?"

     Riley thought for a moment. That's not a bad idea! If he could paint the house, then I could go to San Francisco for the rest of the furniture.

      His countenance must have looked slightly hesitant however, for Harry felt the need to press his point.

     "I would be very much obliged for a job of any kind. You see, I left my new bride in the east with her aunt, and I want to bring her out here as soon as possible, but I don't have a cent in the world. I've looked all over for work, but there's not much of a need for painters in this part of the country, is there?" Henry tried to manage a light chuckle, but he failed miserably.

     Riley shook his head. Not many men are so desperate for work that they would admit they are broke to a complete stranger!

     "I could use a painter about now," Riley spoke encouragingly." I just finished building a house outside of town. The interior is done, but I haven't painted the exterior yet, and I need to pick up an order of furniture from San Francisco in a few days. I'm going to be getting married soon." Riley could not resist the grin that split his face at the thought of his bride-to-be, "so I would like to have the house finished by the end of next week."

     "I understand," Harry affirmed.

     "I'll pay fifty cents a day," Riley offered.

     "That will do just fine." Harry gripped Riley's hand. "Thank you."

     With the business at hand being settled, Riley turned to remount his wagon, but a low grunt from Harry stopped him. "You mentioned San Francisco, would you be willing to deliver a parcel?" Harry asked with hope gleaming in his eyes.

     Riley quickly answered. "Of course! Where too?"

     Harry retrieved a wore piece of paper from his coat pocket. "The man's name is Clive Foster, this is his address," he released the paper to Riley's care, "The parcel's a bit large, but it's very delicate."

     "I'll take good care of it," Riley assured.

     "Thank you, chap. You've taken a load off my mind!" Harry relieved a deep sigh. "I was on my way to San Francisco to deliver that parcel, but I must not have calculated the fare correctly, and I ran out of money, so I was forced to stop here,"

Harry motioned with his arm as he spoke. "I did not want to chance trusting the postal service with my parcel, they might have smashed it! But all in all I'm quite pleased with the way things are turning out."

His second attempt at a chuckle was completed much more successfully. "I'd much rather settle here than in the city. The only reason I originally chose to settle in San Francisco was because of that parcel, but now that it will be on its way, I may go where I please. Thank you, sir!"

     "I'll get it there safely." Riley smiled and mounted his wagon, "I’ll expect you at Memory Creek at seven o'clock."

     Harry gave a polite nod and went his way.

Riley sat for a moment in quiet thought, but a sudden recollection caused him to snap into a straight posture. I forgot to ask for a catalog! Riley remounted the steps of the Fresno general store and his entrance was announced by the ever chiming bell.

     "Forget something, did you Mr. Prescott?" Garvey inquired.

     "Yes," Riley answered, somewhat flustered, "I wanted to look through one of your San Francisco catalogs."

     "They are on the other end of the counter," Garvey answered good humouredly, "Is there anything particular you're looking for?"

     Riley replied as he flipped through the pages of the first book.

     "Yes, I'm looking for a present - for Andi."

      Garvey's face widened into a silly grin.

     "Well, what did you have in mind?"

     "I didn't really have anything special in mind, but I want it to be something she will remember."

      Mr. Garvey rummaged through a large stack of post.

     "You might try this one," Garvey said as he handed Riley a book, "It's the latest catalog from San Francisco's best ladies store."

     Riley seized the book excitedly. However, after an hour of searching, he wrinkled his nose in disgust. Andi would definitely not care for any of this frilly stuff!

     He slammed the catalog shut, causing a loud thud.

     Garvey noticed Riley's outburst. "Didn't find anything you liked?"

     "No," Riley heaved a dejected sigh, "I guess I'll just have to shop around when I get there."

     "Sorry I couldn't be of any service."

     Riley tipped his hat and excited the store in a mildly frustrated manner.

* * * * *

     A new morning dawned bright and lovely on the Circle C Ranch. Riley emerged from the bunk house completely refreshed. The sun's light rays touched his face, causing a gentle, warming, effect.

     After a moment's admiration of the fine day, Riley made his way to the stables. He was greeted by the rich earthy smell of fresh hay combined with the less pleasant aroma of contained horse, perfectly blended together into that strangely pleasing barn odor.

     "Hello there Dakota," Riley cooed to his favorite mount, "Have you had any breakfast yet?"

     "Yep."

     A momentary look of bewilderment crossed Riley's face, but it was soon replaced with a very pleased grin. "Morning Andi," Riley greeted the speaker, "You're up early."

     Andi smiled and allowed her thick dark braid to fall behind her shoulder. She moved closer to the wall separating the stalls of Shasta and Dakota.

     "Riley," Andi began hesitatingly, "I know you've been pretty busy lately, but do you think we could go for a ride before you leave for San Francisco?"

     Riley broadened his grin. "How about we combine that ride with a picnic?"

     Andi's cheeks flushed with anticipation. "That sounds perfect!" Andi nearly shouted in glee.

      Riley began to saddle Dakota. "Maybe it will give me a chance to sample some of those scones from your last baking lesson," Riley said with an accompanying wink.

     "I wouldn't if I were you," a new voice warned.

     "Mitch Carter!" Andi fumed.

     Mitch held up his hands defensively as he continued to make his way closer to them.      "Whoa there littler sister, I was just teasing," he apologized, "They're actually pretty good," the latter comment being for the benefit of Riley.

     Andi's mild wrath melted at the prompt apology.

     "Andi, Mother wants your help with breakfast."

     "Alright," Andi replied in a slightly dejected tone, "Are you coming Riley?" she asked with imploring eyes.

     Riley shook his head. "Not today. I need to get out to Memory Creek."

     Andi's eyes flashed with excitement at the name of her future abode. "I'll see you early this evening then," Andi exclaimed as she excited the barn.

     With Andi gone Riley seized the opportunity to ask a pressing question. "Mitch," Riley began in a suspicious whisper, "I've been trying to find a gift for Andi, but I can't seem to find anything she would like, do have any suggestions?"

     Riley patiently waited for a response.

     "I'm not really sure. Andi's been pretty content lately."

     Riley frowned. "I looked through half of Mr. Garvey's catalogs but nothing seemed right." Riley kicked the dust in renewed despair.

     "Is it a wedding present?" Mitch asked.

     Riley shrugged. "You might call it that, but it's more of a "just because" present."

     Mitch nodded his comprehension. The two men departed the barn as they continued their conversation. "Mother or Melinda might be more help," Mitch offered.

     Riley's face reflected hope. "I think I'll ask them then!"

     Riley glanced at the rising sun, "I need be going," he mounted Dakota, "I hired a man to paint the house and at this rate, he'll be there before I am. So long!"

     Riley tipped his hat and set off at a quick paced trot toward the growing little ranch called Memory Creek.

* * * * *

     The day passed and evening was drawing near. Riley guided Dakota in the direction of the Circle C. He loosened the reins, which allowed Dakota to keep pace with the wind. The stead snorted his disapproval once Riley again took command and slowed him into a trot then a stop.

     Andi stood on the porch with Shasta, saddled and ready, tied to the hitching post. A basket sat at her feet.

     "Are you ready for that ride?" Riley asked in full knowledge of the answer.

     Andi prepared to mount. "I've been ready all day! I thought you'd never get here," Andi exclaimed enthusiastically.

     Riley dismounted.

     "Where are you going?" Andi asked with a look of weathered patience plastered to her face.

     Riley called over his shoulder. "I just want to let your mother know we're leaving."

     Riley entered the ranch house. He blinked several times in an attempt to adjust his eyes to the weaker light.

     A middle-aged lady descended a long flight of stairs. Even had Riley not been acquainted with the Carter family he never would have taken this stately woman to be any other than mistress of the house.

     "Mrs. Carter," Riley began in an unusually shy tone.

      "Hello Riley," Mrs. Carter greeted with a smile, "Andi told me about your ride. She's out on the porch waiting for you."

     "Yes, ma'am I already met her and we will be leaving in a moment, but I need your advice."

     "Oh? What about?" Mrs. Carter inquired.

     "I am trying to find a present for Andi, but I can't find anything just right. Mitch thought you might have some ideas."

     Mrs. Carter smiled and nodded her head in a wise manner. "I'm afraid I won't be as much help as you anticipated."

     Dejection flooded Riley's features.

     "Don't look that way Riley," Mrs. Carter instructed, with sympathy etched in her voice, "Andi is completely happy with your gift of love."

     Riley allowed a grin to spread across his face.

     "You have already given her a lovely ring, the promise of a new home, and a lovely evening ride to the northern meadow."

     Riley took the hint. "Thank you, Mrs. Carter."

     Elizabeth Carter gave a slight nod, as Riley turned to leave.

     As Riley stepped onto the porch Andi sprang from her seat.

     "Ready?" Andi asked in fervent anticipation.

     "Yep I'm rea---," Riley stopped short with his eyes glued to Dakota's front hoof. "I guess I was a little too excited to notice that Dakota throw a shoe," Riley said with an apologetic look.

     "I'll saddle up Arrow," Andi offered.

     As Riley stabled Dakota, Andi prepared Arrow, a velvet black stead with a soft brown nose.

     "I thought you two were going for a ride?" Mitch asked as he entered the barn.

     "We are now. Dakota threw a shoe," Riley explained.

     Andi mounted as Riley secured the small picnic basket to Arrows saddle.

     "Bye Mitch!" Andi called over her shoulder.

     "Have a nice ride!" Mitch watched the two ride off for a while. He then looked about him in search of a pitchfork. "Well I guess the sooner I get started the sooner I'll get done," Mitch thought aloud, before proceeding with the not so pleasant task of stall mucking that was set before him.

     "Mitchell!" Mrs. Cater called, "It's nearly supper time. Don't you want to wash up?"

     Mitch closed the last stall door. "I'll be there in a moment Mother, I'm just finishing up."

     "Excuse me, sir!" the voice of an Englishman sounded as he strode into the Carter barn, "Do you happen to know where I might find a Mr. Riley Prescott?"

     Mitch eyed the newcomer. "He's out for a ride. I'm Mitch Carter, can I help you?"

     Harry thrust out his hand. "My name's Harry O'Healy. No, I don't think you could be of any service to me just now, Mr. Carter. I just wanted to consult with Riley on a matter about his house and collect my first day's pay."

     Elizabeth Carter stepped forward. "Riley is in the northern meadow if the matter pressing. Mitch can give you directions. Forgive me for asking, but are you Mr. O'Healy the English painter?"

     Harry stood erect with pride. "Yes ma'am."

     Mrs. Carter became elated. "I have the great pleasure to own one of your paintings and I count it as one of my highest possessions."

     Harry tipped his hat. “That is very kind of you to say ma'am," he turned to Mitch, "If you would be so kind as to give me directions to this "northern meadow" then I'll be taking my leave."

     Mrs. Carter protested. "Is your matter so urgent that you cannot stay for supper?"

     "No, it's really not as pressing as that! I would be very pleased to have supper with your family."

     "Good, then I''ll tell Lisa to set another plate."

* * * * *

     Nearly a week passed. Riley again rode up the familiar lane leading to the Circle C. He dismounted and threw his reins over the hitching rail.

     "Riley! I didn't expect to see you so soon," Mitch greeted in surprise, "How was your trip to San Francisco?"

     Riley returned the greeting. "All went very well," Riley said in good humor, "Where's Andi?"

     "Mother took her to Fresno for her last dress fitting."

     Riley released a contented sigh. Only a few more days and I'll be a married man!

     The sound of an approaching rider caused both young men to turn towards the lane. A well-groomed chestnut came to a stand near the porch carrying an extremely uncomfortable man as a rider.

     "How you frontier folk ever ride in such ridiculous saddles is beyond me!" the cheerful voice of Harry flustered.

     "Hello, Harry. Did you finish the house?" Riley asked with a broad smile.

     Harry dismounted. Which was accomplished with great difficulty due to the unfamiliar saddle and the large parcel he carried in his left arm. "That I did, it was completed in four day's time."

     Riley gave a pleased nod. "If you'll follow me to the bunk house, you can collect your salary."

     "Thank you, Riley, but wait a moment. That was not my primary reason for coming."

     Both Riley and Mitch looked puzzled.

     "Oh!" Riley exclaimed in recollection, "Your parcel was delivered safely to Mr. Foster. He seemed very pleased, and he said that he'll wire you the money."

     Harry seemed amused. "I received Mr. Foster's wire and I'm very grateful to you. However, my errand today is on another matter." Harry paused.

     Riley feared the Englishman would require him to guess until he guessed correctly, but Harry proceeded with his explanation.

     "At the end of the first day I began working for you, Riley, I came to the Cirlce C looking to collect my wages. Mrs. Carter here, told me you were riding in the "northern meadow" and he gave me directions. I rode out there and I saw you as happy as could be sitting with that lovely young lady. Everything about the scene begged me to paint it, so I did."

     Harry removed the canvas shielding his parcel, revealing a magnificent painting of the scene described. "This is for you and the young lady that is to be your bride."

     Riley took the masterpiece from Harry with unbelief etched on his face. "I thought," Riley stammered, "that you painted houses and barns for a living!"

     Mitch burst into a spout of laughter.

     "That is exactly what I wanted you to think at the time. I needed a practical job and you gave me one that I truly enjoyed. Now with Mr. Foster's draft, and my salary from your job, I can begin to settle down in Fresno."

     Riley looked at the painting in awe. "When I hired you, I never thought of receiving such a gift! Thank you, Harry. I can't wait to give it to Andi!"

* * * * *

     Riley pulled Andi away from the family dinner party. He guided her into the Carter's parlor and gently shut the door.

     "I have a present for you, darling," Riley uttered.

     Andi smiled and flushed with pleasure. "Tomorrow I'll be your wife. That's present enough."

     Riley remembered his conversation with Mrs. Carter and grinned. She was right.      "It's over here," Riley walked Andi to a small table. Sitting atop the table was a large canvas, which Riley hastened to remove.

     Andi gasped. "Oh Riley! Our picnic! It's beautiful!"

     Before her stood the painting by Harry O'Healy, picturing her standing by Arrow with Riley at her side. Tall, snowcapped mountain peaks soared toward the blue sky. Rich evergreens suggested a small wood in the background. Light orange flowers and an occasional white blossom were dotted across the meadow, and the look of love in the eyes of the young lovers was captured in perfection.

     Andi rested her head on Riley's shoulder.

     "It's the most lovely present I've ever received," she whispered in tender, feeling tones, "Thank you, darling."

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