As Richard came riding upon a small pond, he saw Jacy coming along the path. He smiled as he rode up next to her and said, "Hello, Miss Hagan. What brings you all the way out here?"

Jacy looked up at him and said, "Hello Mr. McDonald. I am looking for a puppy for my sister�s birthday."

Richard smiled and said, "Please call me Richard. Would you like some help in looking for that puppy?"

Jacy nodded saying, "Okay as long as you call me Jacy. Yes, I would like some help thank you." They rode off in search of a puppy for Melissa.

As they rode Richard said, "Have you tried the farms around town?"

Jacy nodded and said, "Yes, the only one I hadn't tried is the Thomas Farm but they left a few days ago. "

Richard thought a minute then said, "Well, I think one of the express riders mentioned that their dog had puppies a while ago."

Jacy smiled at the thought of maybe seeing Cody again then said, "I didn't think to check there. You mind riding over there with me?"

Richard smiled and said, "No, I don't mind at all. Come on lets go." They made small talk as they rode over to the express station.

They reached the station and were met by Jimmy. Helping Jacy from her horse Jimmy said, "Hello Jacy, Mr. McDonald what brings you out here today?"

AS Richard dismounted he said, "Well, I remembered you saying that your dog had puppies. Well, Jacy is looking for a puppy for her sister�s birthday."

Jacy nodded. Jimmy smiled and said, "Yes, our dog had puppies about almost two months ago. Come and I'll show them to you." Jimmy led them to the barn and to the last stall where the puppies were. Jacy knelt down and looked at the puppies.

Turning to Richard and Jimmy she said, "I think Melissa would like this little black one.

Richard smiled and said, "I think she'll love that one."

Jacy stood and said, "I think she will. So how much does he cost? And could I pick the puppy up in a few days when it�s Melissa's Birthday?"

Jimmy nodded and said, "Sure you can do that, and the pup is free. We just want to get rid of them. One stray is enough to feed, let alone five. If you know anybody else who wants a pup please send them over."

They stood and walked back to their horses. They mounted up and said their good-byes. As they reached the livery and started to stable their horses, Jacy said, "Thank you for your help, Richard."

As he rubbed down his horse Richard said, "Your welcome, Jacy. I was glad to help." They walked out of the livery and across the street Jacy said, "Goodbye."