A Family for Christmas. Winnie Griggs

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      She followed Leo into the room she’d designated as his and saw that it was not overly large but still of a comfortable size and plainly furnished. She wasn’t certain exactly what she’d expected in rooms above what had been a saloon, but it certainly wasn’t this modest appointment.

      She turned to her host. “This will do quite nicely. Thank you.”

      Mr. Dawson’s smile gave her the impression he knew what she’d been expecting. “The upstairs was barely affected by the fire, only smoke damage and minor scorching on the landing. But I got rid of most of the gaudier furnishings.”

      “I see.” Perhaps he wasn’t as unmindful as she’d assumed.

      He looked around, rubbing the back of his neck absently. “They’re rather sparsely furnished I’m afraid. Like this room, each has a bed, a chest and a small vanity and that’s about it. They’ve remained unused in the time I’ve been here so they’ll probably need a good airing and a cleaning.”

      “The furnishings are more than adequate and the cleaning and airing are something Leo and I are quite capable of handling.” Putting words to action, Eve crossed the room and opened the window, letting in the sunshine and crisp November air.

      Then she turned back to Mr. Dawson. “I assume you have a broom and some dust rags we can use? Oh, and a line outside to hang the sheets on for an airing.”

      He gave a short bow. “Of course. Let me set your bag in your room and I’ll fetch them for you.”

      “That’s not necessary. I don’t want you to feel as if you have to wait on us while we’re here. Just point me in the right direction.” She looked toward Leo. “In the meantime, would you strip the sheets from all three beds and carry them downstairs, please?”

      Leo didn’t look happy about postponing his opportunity to examine the motor carriage, but he nodded and started to work on the beds.

      Eve followed Mr. Dawson from the room and paused with him in the hallway.

      “I keep the broom and mop in the storeroom downstairs,” he said. “Along with a lot of other odds and ends. You’ll find it just to the right of the stairway. Feel free to help yourself to whatever you need.”

      “Thank you. I’m sure I’ll find everything just fine.”

      “If you’re certain you and Leo will be all right for a bit, I need to run a few errands and then see to moving Dotty.”

      Assuring him that they would be fine, Eve headed toward the room she’d reserved for Dotty. She wanted to have it aired out before the woman arrived.