The Indians hung persistently about the timber of the
Colorado, and it was necessary to keep armed men constantly on the
'range' to protect the lives of the advance corps of Anglo-American
civilization. During this time John was almost constantly in the
saddle, and Phyllis knew that it would be folly to add to his
responsibility until his service was performed.
As it frequently happens, one change brings another. While the
preparations were making for Phyllis's marriage, a letter arrived from
Hallam which Richard could not refuse to answer in person. "My father
is dying," wrote Elizabeth, "and he wishes much to see you." So the
marriage was hurried forward, and took place in the last days of
September. Some marriages do not much affect the old home, but that
of Phyllis was likely to induce many changes. She would take with her
to Texas Harriet and several of the old servants; and there was no
one to fill her place as mistress of the house, or as her brother's
companion. So that when she thought of the cheery rooms, closed and
silent, she was glad that Richard had to leave them, until the first
shock of their separation was over.
She went away with a pretty and cheerful eclat. A steamer had been
chartered to take the party and all their household belongings from
New Orleans to Texas, for Phyllis was carrying much of her old life
into her new one.
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