Free Dakota Dream by Lauraine Snelling Page B

putting it on, went out the door, only to return. “Would you rather stay a few minutes to visit or walk with me?”
    “Oh, stay,” Ingeborg pleaded.
    Clara felt like a length of cloth being pulled at both ends. Duty won over and she smiled her apology. “Another time. Perhaps you and the children could come to call soon. That house is so silent. It needs the sound of children laughing.”
    “We will.” Ingeborg patted Clara’s arm. “I’m happy that you like it there. I’m sure Mrs. Hanson is grateful she needn’t worry about her charge.”
    “ Farvel,” Clara said as she waved goodbye from the steps. She trotted after Reverend Moen, who waited for her at the gate. Halfway down the walk, Clara spun around and darted back to the porch. “Do you know anyone who might have a canary for sale? I think the bird s song would cheer Mrs. Norgaard up. And it would make some music in that still house.”
    Ingeborg shook her head, her brow wrinkling in thought. “Not now, but I’ll ask around. That’s a wonderful idea. Farvel .” She stood in the doorway, waving until they were up the street.
    Reverend Moen set a brisk pace and Clara found herself trotting to keep up with his long strides. When they arrived back at the Norgaard place, they met Dr. Harmon just coming down the stairs.
    “I don’t know what you’ve done, my dear, but keep it up, whatever it is.” He shrugged into his coat and picked up his hat. I’ll check back in a couple of days. Now, Reverend, don’t go messing with my patient.”
    Clara could tell he was playing by the twinkle in his eye. “She’s on the mend so you can’t have her yet,” the doctor teased.
    “And I’m sure you think your medicine did the trick?” Reverend Moen tried to look serious and failed utterly.
    “What else?” The doctor chuckled as he strode out the door, waving, one hand behind him.
    “You go on up,” Reverend Moen said. Clara took his coat at the same time she heard the summoning bell from upstairs.
    “I’ll be right back.” He grabbed his coat and slipped out the door, hitting the ground running. He turned and jogged backwards. “Don’t worry,” he called back. “It’s good news.”
    Clara shook her head as she climbed the stairs. What a strange day this was turning out to be.
    “Just put the tray over there.” Mrs. Norgaard pointed to the table in front of the windows. “We’ll wait for Reverend Moen and serve then. Do you think you could brush my hair before he gets back?”
    Clara set the tray down and turned to find Mrs. Norgaard sitting on the edge of her bed, slipping her arms into the sleeves of her robe. Clara paused to see what her patient would do next. Mrs. Norgaard belted and tied the sash then looked up.
    “Could you please help me to the chair? I know it’s easier for you when I’m there.” She took Clara’s arm and raised herself to her feet. Clara waited while Mrs. Norgaard swayed a bit and then steadied herself. “I’m weak as a kitten.” The tone was colored in exasperation.
    Clara felt like singing as she brushed the long, gray tresses. What could have brought on the change? Their talk last night? The tears? Her prayers? Probably a combination of all three but whatever—Clara gave God all the glory. Her whispers of “Thank You, thank You” played counterpoint to the melody.
    When Reverend Moen returned a few minutes later, he carried a small leather case along with his Bible. Reverently, he removed an embroidered stole and placed it around his neck. Then he set out his communion supplies.
    So that’s what she was ready for. Clara tucked the last pin in the coil of hair on the back of Mrs. Norgaard’s head.
    “I’d like the chairs over by the window, if you please.” Mrs. Norgaard looked up at Clara. “Thank you, my dear. That felt wonderful. I believe you have the gift of healing in those hands of yours.”
    Clara held her hands out in front of her, turning them over and back. Could that be? They looked just