"Maybe, but I'd call this quick thinking," Granny said. "Well, John
won't get his message now. I do hope he doesn't worry."
And before she could stop herself, Mindy heard herself saying, "I'll
take the message to the telegraph station."
Mrs. Simpson arched surprised brows. Mindy looked only briefly at her
mother. She knew how Mrs. Simpson felt, because she herself felt the
same way. But if she looked too long at her mother's face, the tears
that were in her heart might leap into her eyes. That must not be.
"Do you think you can do it, Miranda?" her mother asked.
"I'm sure I can," said Mindy, who had to be sure because she dared be no
other way. There was something to be done. Since those who normally
would have done it were no longer here, those who were had to take over.
Neither Mrs. Simpson nor Gramps or Granny could ride. That left only
Mindy.
"There isn't any saddle," said Gramps.
"I'll ride bareback," Mindy said.