Savage storm by Phoebe Conn Read Free Book Online Page B

known, it seemed to me to be disrespectful to dress in more colorful clothing today but I will put these garments away tomorrow. I have never been married, nor do I believe from Mr. Home's comments that any of the others have either. Miss Stewart."
    After a moment's silence the young woman seated opposite Gabrielle spoke. She was very pretty, with hair the golden shade of ripening wheat and eyes of a vibrant green. "I'm Erica Nelson and I'm curious as to why you think it will be impossible for us to become friends. Miss Stewart."
    Clearly bored by having to respond to what she considered so obvious a question. Iris yawned, pausing to cover her mouth before she explained. "It is clear to me from the sketches we were shown, as well as from what Mr. Home said about the men, that some are far more attractive and successful than others. I plan to marry the man who can provide whatever comforts I desire; I'll settle for no less and you women would be foolish to do otherwise. We will all, therefore, be interested in the same two or three men. Whatever friendship you think we'll develop in our travels will end abruptly then."
    Gabrielle glanced over at Erica and saw by her perplexed expression that she also disagreed with Iris' comments. "I for one am more interested in my future husband's character than in whatever wealth he may have accumulated before I arrive. Many of the men are young. They can't be expected to have achieved the goals they will eventually attain. I think one of

    the joys of marriage is building a life together."
    Iris shrugged disdainfully, positive Gabrielle's views were idiotic. "Fine. You marry one of the lads. I will marry a mature gentleman who will be the husband I deserve."
    "Oh, Tm confident you'll get what you deserve. Iris," Gabrielle replied sweetly and when Erica began to giggle she knew she'd made a friend. Since the young woman seated beside Erica had not joined in the discussion as yet, Gabrielle encouraged her to introduce herself to the others. "Won't you please tell us your name?"
    After a long hesitation during which she glanced nervously at each of her traveling companions, the brown-eyed brunette finally responded shyly. "I am Margaret O'Connor and I hope only to marry a kind man who will provide a nice home. He needn't be rich, just pleasant of disposition and I will be content."
    As Iris responded with a scornful glance. Erica complimented Margaret with a sweet smile. "I'm certain there are many such men among those who sent for us, Margaret."
    When the two young women remaining did not speak promptly, Barbara tapped the knee of the one seated opposite her, a blonde with pale blue eyes and long dark eyelashes. The girl first responded with a bright blush and then spoke softly, "My name is Marlene Berger and I'm hoping to meet a man who will want to have a large family."
    "You'll have to sleep with your husband often to accomplish that feat, my dear," Iris offered sarcastically as if that possibility were most repugnant to her.
    Blushing even more brightly, Marlene murmured that she understood that, but clearly she was appalled as were several of the others to think Iris would be so bold as to mention the closeness of the relationship which existed between a husband and wife. Dreadfully embarrassed and afraid the other woman would tease her further, Marlene was thankful when Iris appeared to be more interested in the passing scenery than in her companions and remained silent for the moment.

    Knowing she was the only one who had not yet spoken, the young woman beside Marlene leaned forward to introduce herself. "I am Johanna Wayne and I first heard of the Oregon country when the Presbyterian church was raising money to fund its missions there. Bringing the gospel to the savages is a worthy goal, don't you agree?"
    Noting the Bible clutched tightly in Johanna's hands, Iris offered slyly, "We'll remember that if we're attacked. Miss Wayne. We'll send you out to sing a few hymns and perhaps the