AUGUST 31, 1861

That evening Ted came into the hotel kitchen to relieve Desiree from her kitchen duties. Desiree had a nightly performance at the saloon that she had to attend to.

"Good evening, Desiree. How's your song coming along?" Ted inquired.

"What song?" Desiree was confused. She didn't know what Ted was talking about.

"Remember the other day, your mind was elsewhere and you almost burnt the biscuits, but I saved them by walking in just in the neck of the time. You said that you were trying to think of some lyrics to a new song that's why you were preoccupied."

"Oh yes, now I remember. Actually I'm always working on new songs, but that one in particular has to be very special."

"Why is that?"

"Well, I can't say, but you'll know why when you hear it. That is if I ever get it wrote." Changing the subject, Desiree asked, "Did you have a fun time at the square dance social?"

"Yes, I did. What about you?"

"I did too. I was surprised to see Cody up and walking." Desiree took off her apron and hung it on the coat rack nearby.

"It was a miraculous recovery I heard." Ted stated.

"How so?"

"Melissa told me that he was eager to save her from a bear, not knowing that she needed saving from a snake and not the bear, Cody stood up and went running to Melissa's aid." Ted took to making some dough in order to bake some biscuits.

"That is remarkable. Well, I wish I could stay and chat all evening, but I have to go and get ready for my performance tonight." Desiree headed for the door.

"Good luck, on your new song that is. You don't need any when it comes to singing. You have the most beautiful voice in town." After seeing Desiree blush and then smile, he turned back to his work.