Charlie walked into the jailhouse and saw that Teaspoon was alone. "Teaspoon, can I talk to you for a minute?"

"Sure, Charlie, what�s on your mind?"

"Well, you know at the Valentine�s Dance, Grace was my partner in the square dancing." Teaspoon nodded he had seen them together that night. "Well, I had a real good time in her company, and I would like to get to know her better. I would like to have your permission to court her."

"Hmmm," Teaspoon rubbed his chin. He was hoping that Grace would be the girl for Ike. "Hmmm," he said again while pondering the idea of Charlie and Grace. "Well Charlie, I don't see why not." He watched as a smile crossed Charlie's face. "But just remember if you hurt her, you'll have me to deal with me."

Charlie's smile immediately disappeared as he turned serious, "I know that, sir."

"I think of her like a daughter, and I want her to have a good life. You treat her well, and everything will be just fine. But this is all just conditional . . . in the condition that Grace wants you to court her . . . you understand?" Teaspoon asked as he stared intently at him.

"Oh yes sir, I understand completely." Charlie stood. "Thank you sir." He sort of did a half bow and then turned and walked out.

Teaspoon hoped he wasn't making a mistake. He wished he knew more about Charlie. He would keep an eye on him and Grace for sure.