"Certainly, Miss Smithers." Charles smiled a bit. "By then hopefully our wagon will be loaded with our supplies and we'll be set, now that we have some oxen." He shot a look at Mr. Smith.

Henrietta, beside him, examined Pearl once again. Perhaps this was a blessing in disguise. It wouldn't be so bad to have a companion on the trail. They looked about equal age, even. Her eyes snagged on the book that Pearl was holding. "What are you reading, may I ask?"