A Letter to Stones Creek

I've been creating a new series which takes place in the fictional town of Stones Creek, Colorado beginning in 1867. The War of the Rebellion is over but the trauma and injuries remain. Leah Daniels is moving to the town after the death of her physician father. Sara Cuttler, Leah's cousin lives there with her husband Ben and their three children. If you recognize the last name you may realize a connection to Cottonwood. Ben is Aggie Cuttler's son.

Leah has written her cousin confirming her plans for the move. Sara has been generous enough to let us read it.

Leah's Peace is scheduled for release in late May or early June 2013.

Dear Sara,

I’ve finally finished settling Father’s estate and am making my plans to come to Stones Creek. I must thank you for your generous offer to let me stay in the apartment above the general store. Knowing I have a place to live and to set up my dress shop relieves some of my nervousness at the thought of moving from Kansas City. The recent years have been quite stressful and I’m longing for the peace which the move to Colorado seems to promise.

I’ve arranged for the furniture I chose not to sell to be brought to Stones Creek by wagon. It will not arrive until sometime after I do. If you can manage to have a pallet to sleep on until its arrival I would greatly appreciate it. Please do not go to any expense or trouble. I am more than willing to sleep on the floor but the comfort of some blankets or rugs would be welcome.

There will be a number of trunks coming with me on the train as well as my Singer treadle sewing machine. The trunks will contain a quantity of fabrics which I hope to create garments for both the women and men of the area. You’ve told me how difficult it is to get nice fabrics so I decided to come prepared.

How are you, Ben and the children? I look forward to becoming better acquainted with your spouse and meet your children. It is difficult to believe you are a mother of three.

Once again, dear Sara, thank you for requesting this lonely cousin to join you in Stones Creek. With your help and that of the Lord I hope to set aside the past and find peace in the present. I will be arriving on the mid-day train on the sixteenth day of August. If there is any change or delay I will sent you a wire.

Your cousin,
Leah Daniels

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