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151 Tamale Ridge by: Chuck Cusimano
“Señor Thacker, I have always liked you but would have killed you if the Patron wished it.”
He went on.
“I have not told anyone this, but Francisco Guerra called me to his side when he was on his
death bed and confided in me that you were a good man and if his daughter so chose, I could
give my blessings. This was before we knew for sure that Ramon lived. Now I have a new
obligation to the young Patron. I will talk to him if you wish.”
“No, Raul, I think it is best if I talk to him myself. First, I must ask Rosemarie if she wishes to
come back to America with me to live.”
“She never says but we all know that you are the man in her dreams each night. She
compares other possible suitors to you, even if she does not know it herself,” said Raul.
“Romaldo Quintana has been trying to win her notice but she never sees him. I will arrange
for a meeting between you and the young Patron.” He continued,
“I hope for all involved that he will give his blessings. But, I must tell you, if he does not
wish you to take his sister; I will do all I can to see that his orders are carried out.”
Gideon knew Raul would do as he said. Such was the loyalty of this man.
That night, a big meal was served and Ramon sat at the head of the large table.
Sitting across from Gideon, Rosemarie glanced at the American and blushed like a young girl.
“We will eat the meat of the calf and we will drink this wine in honor of my father,
FRANCISCO GUERRA!” said Ramon, as he stood up in front of the gathering of vaqueros and
the American guest. Everyone stood and held their drinks.
“After the meal, I am going to make an announcement.”
They all drank the toast Ramon had proposed.
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