Page 62 (2/2)

“Millicent Clyde, December 1931,” Cat read “Finished in winter obviously, when she was housebound”

Sloan traced a finger over the eo Would your dad have knoho she was?”

“Maybe,” Cat replied “Judy Niles certainly would’ve known”

Sloan nodded thoughtfully “I think Millicent would be happy to know that her handiwork has lasted this long”

“Back then, everything had to,” Cat said and quoted the old saying, “‘Use it up, wear it out Make it last or do without’ Being a ranch hand’s asn’t the easiest life back in the day”

The thu of a cane announced Chase’s arrival “What are you two doing?” Entering the roolance at the stack of quilts and the unfolded patchwork “Oh Those quilts” He came over for a closer look

“See any of your shirts here, Chase?” Sloan said in a lightly teasing voice and held out a quilt for his inspection

He looked at the date she showed hiruffly

“I’bag for as long as I’ve known you”

“Why would I? Takes tiht”

“Of course,” Cat said in dry disbelief

“Do you recognize the woman’s name?” Sloan wondered

Chase peered at the embroidery and shook his head “No, but a lot of people lived on the Triple C over the years” Sloan began folding the quilt back up “I like your idea to use them as backdrops for photos,” Chase told her “Especially since everyone will be here this Christain?”

“Oh, Dad…” Cat didn’t finish, a lu off the words in her throat

Both women kneas left unspoken: the fact that Chase hiht not be around for many more holidays