Page 16 - MailOrderBrideFlipBook

“We could just sit around jabbering all day about things we can’t change,” Whitman cut in, “but we have a bigger question now. What do we do with her?” Eli turned to Whitman. “What do you mean what do we do with her? The captain can take her back and tell her father there was a big mistake.” The captain’s voice thundered. “I no want to take back! I charge hundred dollar boat ticket to take back!” This upset Eli. “I don’t have a hundred dollars. I sent every last cent I had to Molly.” The captain folded his arms. “No boat ticket, no take back.” “Now, be reasonable,” Eli said. “I didn’t ask for her, and...” Jim grabbed Eli’s arm. “You’re forgetting something else, Eli. You were just saying how bad it was for Molly to send her on a cattle boat, but you are about to do the same thing.” Eli looked at the frightened young lady. “Well, well, maybe...” Eli stammered, trying to think of something. Suddenly, his face brightened. “Whitman, you’re the mayor here. Maybe you can help find her a place to stay and a job.” Whitman scowled. “Now, hold on here just a minute. I may be mayor, but I am also the customs officer. The law has changed since you came over here, Eli. No one comes in unless they meet the new legal standards.” “What new legal standards?” Eli asked. “In order to be a citizen, she must have a relative here,” Whitman replied. “But there is no way she could have a relative here,” 13