Ella packed the bread into baskets, probably borrowed from a washerwoman, lined with cloth. Knowing Ella, Fritz was sure it was very clean cloth. He helped her carry the baskets. The loaves would be very tempting indeed. The officers tended to get the best of everything, at the expense of the men. Fritz wouldn't allow that to happen. There'd be privation enough for everyone in the days ahead.
The aroma of fresh baked bread wafted ahead of them. Tent flaps opened, men's mouths watered as memories of home and hearth filled them.
"Tomorrow at dinner, boys," Ella said. "I promise."
Ella was walking away from tent city, towards the fort proper. The men standing guard allowed her to pass. Perhaps it was her smile, or maybe it was her escort. They saluted. It took a moment for Fritz to remember they were saluting HIM. He returned the honor and the gate closed behind them.
They crossed the parade deck, and headed towards the officer's quarters.
He asked, "Is this where you're living?"
"Scarlet and I are sharing the guest room. I think people were unsure where to put us. We wouldn't have minded camping with the scouts, but this is a lot more comfortable."
The sentries at the door admitted Ella and her escort without hesitation.
"Won't you come in for a while? I'm sure Scarlet will be back soon."
He opened the door for her, and followed her into the room.
"I see what you mean by 'more comfortable'", he said, looking at the furnishings. They settled into the chairs.
"In the day or so I've been here, my commission has been reinstated, and I've been placed in command of my old unit. i've also found that most of the experienced men are gone...retired or dead. I've got a few good noncoms, but mostly green kids with little or no training."
Ella nodded. "What are the chances of success?"
"Well," Fritz said, "let's just say I'm glad you're here. Your skills may be needed as much as mine."
They shared a smile. Old friends who knew each other well.
"Ella...how is Scarlet doing?"
The question startled her. What did he know?
"She looked poorly the day before I left. I thought she was just overtired, but I'm not sure. What do you think?"
Ella took a moment before she answered, "Scarlet had not been sleeping well because of disturbing dreams. The day after you left, Grey Eagle brought a message from the tribe's elders about a vision they had had. I didn't follow all the meaning behind what Grey Eagle said, but I knew that I was going to be needed here. I think Grey Eagle's words also resonated with Scarlet's dreams."
"Grey Eagle's visions can be very powerful," Fritz replied. He still remembered the one he'd shared vividly. "I'd like the chance to talk to Scarlet, but what I have to say would be inappropriate for certain audiences."
Ella chuckled, "You won't have an audience here. I've got letters to write, and there is a parlor next door that I can use."