OCTOBER 23, 1861

Curtis rode his horse, Kat, over to Caller Bob’s. He saw the little girl and boy playing ball as he rode up to the house, and Caller Bob was just coming out of his home when Curtis rode up. “Good evening.” Caller Bob said as Curtis dismounted. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“Good evening, Caller Bob. I wanted to talk to you about becoming a caller. I was hoping that you could teach me.” Curtis tied Kat to the hitching post.

“Well, come on up and set a spell. Will talk about it.” Caller Bob motioned for Curtis. Curtis climbed the steps and sat down in a chair while Caller Bob sat down on the porch swing.

“I like square dancing and-,” Curtis was interrupted by the kids as they came running up on the porch and each one of them took a sitting position on each side of Caller Bob.

They were both out of breath, but Tyrell managed to say, Caller Bob can we go for a buggy ride. I like it when you show us the ranch.”

Caller Bob smiled and looked down at Tyrell. “Sure we can go for a ride, but first I want to talk with Curtis. Why don’t you two run down to the stables and have one of the men hitch up the buggy? I’ll be there as soon as I can.”

Tyrell nodded. “Come on Tye, I’ll race ya.” Tyrell took off running, and Tye followed close behind gaining on his sister. He caught up with her and past her grinning all the way to the stables.

“Now what’s this about learning how to call?” Caller Bob asked as he watched Tye pass his sister.

“I enjoy square dancing, and I would like for you to teach me to become a caller. Then wherever I decide to settle down the town might need a caller.” Curtis explained.

“Well, if I start to teach you, I want complete dedication from you. I don’t want to get half way through teaching you, and then you decide to quit.”

“Oh, I won’t. I have complete dedication. I really want to learn.” Curtis firmly stated.

“Alright then, come by tomorrow evening about this time, and we’ll get started.” Caller Bob stated. Then they talked about general things for a while until Caller Bob exclaimed, “Well, would you look at that?”

Curtis turned his head to see Tye and Tyrell heading this way in a buggy. Tye was driving. “It looks to me like they’re ready to go.” Curtis stood up and watched as the buggy stopped in front of the house. “Well, I guess I should be leaving.” Curtis walked over and mounted Kat. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“See you tomorrow.” Caller Bob called to Curtis as he climbed into the buggy to take Tye and Tyrell for a ride and to show them some more of the ranch.