The Return of Bethany

© 2010 Mr. David R. Dorrycott

Bethany Cartwright, Nancy and Alpha Rote © Mr. Simon Barber.

Used with permission. Time Period Spring of 1937

Chapter One

The young Raccoon known as Bethany Cartwright sat at the moment very quietly within her fathers home office. She had returned from her Aunts ranch in Utah only a week ago and this was the very first time her father had deemed it proper to speak to her. “A boy?” her father asked softly, lightly puffing upon his pipe.

“Robert James Dillion, Father” the young woman answered. “A black furred equine which is oddly apparently pure blood.”

“I see.” He puffed upon his pipe a bit more before continuing. “Adopted?”

“By Aunt Hilda father, I have been informed that Robert will never know who his mother or father are, only that he is an orphan.” It had hurt Bethany to allow that legal action, hurt her almost as much as her sons birth had physically hurt her for he had been much too large for her body to deliver naturally and thus had been cut out of her. It had been a hard decision as such births often lead to infections that killed the mother, yet there had been no possibility of either of them surviving if it had not been done thus Bethany had acceded to the act. Then, his father had been large as well she remembered, quite large.

“Very good choice young lady and I have rule for you now” her father continued.

His use of the term ‘young lady’ sent ice into the young racoon’s heart. He hadn’t used that term since she had started running around with Nancy Rote so many years ago. Nor, the young raccoon realized, had he placed rules upon her since she had turned twelve then only after her near burning down the garage. This was not going to end well she knew, not well at all.

“The poor young lady you so corrupted, and do not think that I am not aware of everything that occurs in this house, trained you well before her murder, for murder we now know it was thanks to young Nancy and that odd friend of her’s. I grant that she had some little fun in our company before her death, but she was professional in her occupation, quite professional. There will be no further dalliances with mules young lady, nor any male that you are not currently married too is this fully understood?”

“Yes father” Bethany agreed. She admitted to herself that she had brought this upon herself. Best then to accept it and find an open minded husband later. Perhaps one not so strong in his desire to control his wife, perhaps then one that she could control. “I fully agree father.”

“Very good then. As for your future my dear daughter I am sending you to Boston. There to hire your own secretary from the same school where Miss Witherspoon was so well trained, Mrs. Portland’s Boston School of Secretarial Excellence is my information is correct. You have proven to me your maturity in this matter and your intelligence to learn when presented with a proper instructor. I only wish that young Miss Witherspoon were still alive as I would hire her immediately, she was an excellent secretary.” He looked hard at his daughter. “And would have been an excellent choice of a life companion for you wouldn’t she Bethany.”

‘So he does know everything’ Bethany thought. Swallowing she nodded in the affirmative. “She was trained at that school Father and yes sir, she would have been my choice as well” the raccoon admitted, blushing as certain memories came to mind.

Her father sat his pipe aside, though noting his daughters expression he decided not to comment upon it. “You will leave tomorrow morning on the Northbound Train Bethany thus you should arrive in Boston within the week. Be careful with your choice daughter as she will be both your secretary and personal companion for a long time, perhaps the rest of your life if the future unfolds as I see it. You see, I am assigning you a position in the ceramic factory where we make the standoffs for electrical lines. Your starting position is a minor one for you are still learning but you will need a secretary. Considering the wildness of your nature I cannot allow a local woman to work for you now can I?”

“No sir, you cannot” Bethany admitted. “But Father, I do not prefer a woman. Louise was great fun but in all honesty only fun.”

“Which no longer matters in this or any future conversation Bethany, you will accept her for life, that is my order as your father. As to Miss Witherspoon, I request that you pray for her each night. This request is not an order my daughter but a simple request. Nothing you did caused her death but you were the most important person in her life at the time of her death, perhaps her only true friend. You thus owe her the obligation of never forgetting her. It is a little thing I ask after all, it is, well it is a belief of my own not the Church. I personally believe that as long as you remember a person that they live on through your life. Louise Witherspoon deserved a long and happy life, her choice was a woman, you. Therefore perhaps you will help her soul to experience life as she would have lived it, by remembering her. At least that is my personal belief.”

He paused, walking to his bookshelves to withdraw a large flat object that Bethany well knew. Bride of the Fire Queen was its title and its pages had heated her and Louise to a fever pitch one night. It had been a night that even now she could remember every moment of.

“When you borrow something my dear child do remember to replace it exactly as you found it.” He dropped the portfolio on his desk, facing his daughter. With a practiced twist of his paw he opened it to a certain page before continuing. “And do not bend your most favored page, this is an expensive publication after all. You are like myself Bethany, hedonistic. Pleasure of the flesh is most important to you though you are still too young to understand your feeling fully. Too inexperienced to understand this tome in its fullness therefore I will officially make available my special collection for you to share with your companion. With one certain restriction of course, they must never be removed from the room that they are in.”

He closed the portfolio, carefully returning it to its place before continuing. “Right. Your exactly as I was at your age, all need, all desire, all hunger with very little control. In your case though your mistake could have ruined your life. Oddly, a man may have a child out of wedlock and be thought little less. A woman? Ostracized forever as a woman with no morals. Thankfully only the Rotes are aware of your indiscretion and they are most trustworthy. But had anyone else known, no my dear daughter until or if you marry no further farm road adventures. I will allow you a woman, but no further men or I will disown you.” He stared at his daughter until she began to shiver. “Disobey me in this and I will horsewhip you naked out into the street. Are we clear?”

Bethany found it difficult to answer. First she nodded, then in a weak voice agreed. “Fully father, quite fully” she answered.

Her father coughed, taking up a glass of wine to drink before speaking further. “It is your mother I most worry about, her place in society. It is her who would be harmed the worst. I do not give a rats ass what people think about myself but you ruin your mother. Before throwing you out of this house my daughter, I will lay the whip heavily upon your body, all your body. Thus I beg that you do not ignore my decision. To harm you I would be as harmed as you. To scar you would shame me but I will do so, to save your mother I will do what must be done.”

He stared into her now frightened eyes, a grim smile coming to his face as he withdrew the branding iron to offer the rose. “Bethany my dear child you are not the only one to make such a mistake and yes, my father laid upon my back the whip for ruining a young woman’s life. I have a daughter in Kansas, I sent her mother money each month until the child married and now she has a child herself. We are Cartwrights Bethany, we do not every ignore our responsibilities nor do we ever turn our backs on those in need. Therefore until your son stands upon his own two hooves or is twenty-one years old you will insure that at least one third of your monthly income is sent to your Aunt Hilda. No matter how great or how little that income may be one third is his right just as if you had been married and he was in your arms at this moment. He deserves no less, for his birth was not his fault, not his doing. Guilt, should there truly be any, lays always upon the parents never the child. This is what my mother taught me and I have slept the better each night for it.”

“Yes father” the young racoon woman answered. “May I know my half-sisters name?”

“When you have earned the right” her father answered “I will be happy to tell you her name. Now, you will be expected at the same school that Miss Witherspoon came from. I have already sent a letter and received a response, thus there will be no difficulties there as it is currently very near their next classes graduation. When you select my child, watch her eyes and lips. This will tell you which one will be happy to share more than a simple office with you. Thank God though that you were silent when you conceived out of wedlock as he I was able to give money to vanish, and he had the honor to do so without argument or demand of further funds. He swears he was unaware that he could conceive and seemed quite happy about the information. There are those about us that would use such information to destroy this family. Had I such enemies who would harm you as poor Nancy was I would have been crushed. I haven’t the strength of Governor Rote, so I ask you to maintain your friendship with that family Bethany, because one day you may seriously need it. Or they you. You are right to keep her as your friend, such was not her fault. Now go to your room and pack for two weeks as the train leaves at eight am sharp.”

Chapter Two

Bethany’s trip proved anything but exciting. With two changes of trains and a half day wait for her second train the young energetic racoon was near bored to tears by the time she finally entered Boston city limits. Though she had shared compartments with families and other young women the conductor had somehow insured that the only men who sat with her also sat with their wives. Not that anything would have happened, the young raccoon was usually engrossed in the papers her father had given her. They were of course business papers, exactly what the factory she would be working at made, whom their customers were, income, costs... All the mind boggling information that she was expected to know and understand before returning to Creekside and her father along with her new employee.

Even then she would be home only long enough for her father to interview the woman she was to hire, then insure that both understood the nature of his factories business. Quite soon afterwards they would be traveling to Colombus Ohio, where she was to begin her education in true business. For she would eventually be making decisions that could make money or cost her fathers company money. It was both an exciting and daunting task, all made the worse because by the time she reached Boston she was completely confused by the graphs, statements, product catalogs and reports.

Thus the afternoon after her arrival she stepped from a taxi to look up at Mrs. Portland’s Boston School of Secretarial Excellence. It took a few moments until she realized that the building had once trained maids. Now though the occasional young lady who stepped though those doors was dressed for business, not cleaning. Shaking herself to settle her own clothing about her after the long taxi ride Bethany Cartwright walked up those steps and into the building.

She was first enveloped by a coolness as the doors closed behind her, a coolness and very real quiet after being on the city streets for almost an hour. Seeing a small desk to one side she approached the middle aged ferret sitting behind it. Looking up the ferret smiled, for she was Mrs. Portland’s scout and this pleasant looking young raccoon would do quite well, in say certain houses in Northwestern Utah or Britain.

“Application Miss?” she asked, automatically reaching for the correct paperwork.

“No thank you Miss” Bethany glanced at the desk, “Farmer. My name is Bethany Cartwright. I am here to employ a personal secretary not in search of employment or education myself.”

“I see” the ferret replied, returning that envelope to the stack with its fellows. A lost sale perhaps, but employing their students was actually more important than selling them. It kept up the schools false face as a safe place for young women, especially those with little or no family. This young woman was looking for a personal secretary, which meant that she was already employed at a level requiring such or quite wealthy. Instantly any idea of circulating certain information vanished, to have an Employer arrive in person rather than demand the girls appear at some meeting place was a feather in the schools cap. It meant that their name and reputation for training competent secretaries was finally getting out into the world.

“Certainly Miss Cartwright, if you will please have a seat?” Miss Farmer picked up her phone, dialing her employers office number. After a few minutes conversation she gave Bethany a smile. “Andrea will be here in a moment, she will take you to see Mrs. Portland. For our records may I ask how you learned of us?”

“A friend” Bethany answered. “Louise Witherspoon. I fear that she was murdered but before that we were good friends. My father is forcing me to learn his business from ground up and Louise was teaching me what a secretary is responsible for. She much impressed my father and myself with her training, so when father demanded that I find my own secretary-companion we thought immediately of this school.”

“Oh. Miss Witherspoon” the ferret repeated. “We were shocked to read about her death, did they ever catch her murderer?”

Bethany gave the ferret a smile that frightened her, for it was the smile of a predator. “Oh yes, a close friend of mine, Miss Nancy Rote, discovered him and his plots. Rest assured that his ashes and those who worked with him were dumped in the city sewage system. I assure you that Louise Witherspoon was well avenged.”

“I.. See.” Miss Farmer abruptly returned to her work. That look, the sound of that voice. This Miss Cartwright and Louise had obviously been more than friends, she would have to warn Mrs. Portland, at least the raccoon’s information explained why there had been no further communication from that end.

When Andrea arrived Miss Farmer introduced her to Bethany, then excused herself. As soon as the two had started up the stairs she picked up her phone again, quickly relaying what she had discovered to Mrs. Portland. Bethany though was entranced by the very beautiful housecat that escorted her a flight up to Mrs. Portland’s office. She was, the racoon decided, almost exactly what was needed. Competent, intelligent and just pretty enough to cause males to forget themselves and let slip information. Of course as the private secretary to the schools owner any chance of affording this ones pay would be laughable. Her father had given her a strict budget, one she well understood that she could not go a penny over. It was a bit more than Louise had been making, but not so much as to matter. After all, if she selected right young woman then living expenses for her secretary would most likely be minimal.

Knocking twice on a glass paneled door Andrea waited until Mrs. Portland announced that she could enter. “Mrs. Portland” the housecat announced. “May I introduce Miss. Bethany Cartwright. She has come looking for a personal secretary. Miss. Cartwright? This is Mrs. Portland, the owner of this School of Secretarial Excellence.” She then excused herself, closing the door softly behind her as she left.

“Please take a seat” the middle aged vixen facing Bethany offered. “May I offer you a drink? Smoke?”

“No thank you Mrs. Portland” Bethany answered. She was not thirsty and since the birth of her son the scent of tobacco smoke made her ill for some unknown reason. ”Though I do appreciate you offers. As you are aware of why I am here I would like to set down to business. My father has decided that before he allows his only child to inherit any of his business, that she will understand said business from the ground up. I have been a secretary and most recently returned from fathers ranch where I learned to do the things required there.” She looked down at her paws which still showed calluses. “Repairing a fence is hard work I have discovered. And the nights when alone are extremely... Different”

She looked back up at the vixen. “I had a friend from your school, one Louise Witherspoon. Before she was murdered she taught me a little about how a good secretary should work. She impressed me, thus when father informed me that it was time for me to take a low administration position, one that would require a secretary, your school came immediately to mind.”

“I see. I was shocked to read of poor Louise’s death. Was her murderer ever found?” Of course the vixen already knew the answer, but to hear it from this woman would cover any slip-ups that she might make later.

“Yes Mam” Bethany answered, her voice hardening. “A lawyer in the firm she was working at, not her employer. This man and his secretary had been selling girls who worked for their company. When Louise stumbled over the information he killed her. A friend of mine, Miss Nancy Rote, managed to discover his secrets and flush him out. Be certain that your student has been avenged, that no other will face such danger should she find herself in Creekside.”

“I see, that is good news” the vixen lied. “And you will be taking one of our students to Creekside?”

“No Mam, at least only for father to interview her himself to insure that I made a correct choice. Fathers larger ceramics factory is in Colombus, Ohio and I will be spending up to six months there. After that where he will send me I do not know.” She opened her valise, offering the vixen an envelope. “Father said that I was to show you this, so that you may check my references before accepting my commission for a secretary.”

Accepting the envelope Mrs. Portland stood, walking to a shelf of large green books. Once there she opened the envelope and read. “Your father cabled before your arrival” she admitted as she looked at the books. “Thus we have already completed our own background checks regarding the seriousness of your need.” Selecting one of the green books she pulled it out, a soft grunt of effort proving its weight. Laying the book down on a small table she opened it, moving through the pages with a speed that impressed Bethany. “Ah yes, Cartwright Speciality Ceramics. Profit margin two point one million dollars last year. One thousand four hundred and twenty-seven full time employees.”

Closing the book she returned to her desk, settling down. “In the middle of this Depression yet. A very good businessman your father. Several government contracts, as well as the Great Lakes AT&T contract. I doubt that you will be going out of business tomorrow.” She gave Bethany a smile. “We do check all the employers that request secretaries, have you any idea what your position will be Miss Cartwright?”

“Not as yet, though from the papers father sent with me it will either be purchasing or design as an intern with time on the floor learning the basics of how the things are actually created. I do have an eye for design he says.” Bethany gave the woman before her a knowing smile. “Some of fathers other holdings are twenty-three percent of Coors Brewing, twenty-one percent of Fallstaff and eleven percent of Schlitz. Thirty-two percent of Bath Iron Works, Twelve percent of Fletcher Construction, several thousand acres of farming and late last year he finalized the purchase of all remaining designs and lands once owned by the Verville Aircraft Company. We will be in production of our first aircraft by mid-summer of 1938, with at least two Songmark Aeronautical Academy graduates on the design team at Mrs. Rotes suggestion. Fifty percent of all profits are equally turned back into fathers companies. This money is used for everything from improvements to the industries to bonus packages for non-management personal and a small fund for emergency medical care for all employees should they be injured on the job.“

“I see” the vixen observed. “You truly are well versed in your fathers companies, that is a delightful surprise. Please Miss Cartwright take no offense, it is just that so many women who have come here since we first opened. Each looking for a personal secretary yet what most really want is a traveling companion that they may later release without care in some forgotten country. So then, you will be most junior of the juniors. In my opinion this is always a good place to start, as you will understand the business from the ground up before being placed into a commanding position. As daddies daughter one might expect him to place you in a high position, where otherwise you will falter simply because you have no idea how things are done. Instead your father insures that you understand the business first. Personally Miss Cartwright I would wish that more fathers did such with their children and it is a delight to find one that allows his daughter to reach for the controls. Well then, yes, we have a class graduating next Friday. We graduate twice a year as it happens. Unless someone does something rather foolish I assure you nearly thirty bright young faces to examine. Have you any preferences?”

‘Louise Witherspoon’ Bethany immediately thought, then pushed that thought aside. Her friend was dead, as painful as that truth was she had to live with it. The look on her face though had informed the well trained vixen the truth. Instantly she discarded a half of the class, especially the one who was already sold. “Not at this moment” the raccoon finally admitted. “Is there some way that I may learn a little about them, before actually meeting the class?”

“I do not see why not” the vixen agreed. “I will have Andrea take you to student records and pull the information you will need. You will only be able to see their class grades I fear, but you may ask Andrea questions. If the information is not too personal she will tell you what you need to know.” She reached out and pressed a button on her desk. “I must warn you that certain information is not available. Information such as family for example, those personal records are not available though you may ask the student herself. She will decide wither or not to tell you.”

When Andrea returned to the room Mrs. Portland gave her the instructions she needed and code phrased the ones that Bethany would never know. After they left the vixen sighed in regret for Bethany Cartwright was purebred, smart and a fast learner. If only she had wanted to be a student, a certain Don in Espanola quickly came to mind. He had a great love of raccoons and was a true collector of beauty. He also had very deep pockets. Still there would be others and from what she had learned from Louise’s occasional letters during her time at Creekside, she knew the type of secretary that Bethany wanted. One that would also be a companion. A very, very close companion. Leaning back in her chair she wondered where Louise was now, for she was aware that the grave with her name was false. That this Cartwright girl believed her dead meant some secondary customer now had nothing to fear. Besides, half-breeds were not sentient no matter how well they parroted intelligence. They were only animals to be sold and traded but the Creekside disaster had forced her to pull her head down. Of the twenty-eight girls about to graduate she had only been able to safely sell one. That one would travel to New York City, then vanish before arriving at her supposed employers office.

Chapter Three

It took until late afternoon for Bethany to settle upon six names. That Andrea had subtly guided her in her choice the raccoon was unaware. Mrs. Portland’s coded orders had been clear to the housecat and of their students there were really only six that would fit the mid-westerners secret needs. She had also discovered Bethany’s travel requirements and the pay scale that she was prepared to offer. These among many other lessor things, some very personal for the housecat was skilled with words and her raccoon visitor was not, not as yet.

That she was so easily read by others would have shocked Bethany but then this was their livelihood. For Bethany this was simply the first employee that she would hire completely by herself. Thus she accepted the housecats guidance. After all, she had the experience in such things didn’t she?

As Andrea had planned Bethany finally settled upon those six names. They were not the top students, all being average, there always had to be a large pool of average students after all, along with a smaller pool of superior and inferior students bt they would well represent their school in the working world. As the raccoon was only child to a rather plump business empire the chances were high that she would eventually advance to control that business. Having her completely satisfied with her employee would mean further business for the school. Legal, above board business that would further help cover their true source of profit. Their off the book profits, critical profits that simply must be kept hidden at all costs.

“I will speak with these six” Bethany finally decided. “When would be a good time for me to return for such a meeting?”

Andrea checked the watch pinned to her blouse. “It is but twelve minutes before last class, which is conversational French. I believe that I can arrange a meeting for you today should you wish. Mr. Loperson does not mind as long as it does not interfere with test days. As those have been completed now it is simple conversational French the girls are using until graduation.” She gave the raccoon a winning smile. “Honestly Miss Cartwright though the students are unaware of it yet, all teaching has been completed. We are now in the two weeks of making certain that they are comfortable with their new skills and training. If you will come with me I will take you to the conference room. This is where any potential employers will meet with our students. Next week we hope that it will be a very busy room.”

Following the housecat Bethany mulled over the names she had chosen. All had good grades, excellent paw writing and appeared to be intelligent, on paper. But there were other things that she had to take into consideration. Things her father had carefully explained and things she would only know after speaking with each one.

“Do not hire a woman who’s voice, scent or mannerisms bother you” her father had warned her. “Remember always that you are the employer, not she. If she is too aggressive pass her by even though she may answer all your other needs. An aggressive employee is a problem employee. Nor a very religious, moral or political woman for she will continually vex you with her beliefs. My dear daughter this you cannot afford. Do not think that you may change her mannerisms with time, she is an adult, thus what you see will be, in the least, what you will have forever. Likewise listen carefully. If she talks about others then she will talk about you to others. You and your business. Do not look for a friend for it is difficult to order about or fire a friend even when you have too. Finally, you will never find the perfect employee. They do not exist. We are not machines to be slipped into a specific slot then forgotten. Finally, you will not find another Louise Witherspoon my daughter thus do not even try.”

‘Louise’ Bethany thought as she was shown into a conference room. ‘Will she vex me all my life? She was the perfect companion. She would have been the perfect employee.’ With difficulty she pressed those thoughts away, this was not the time or place for them. She would remember the chipmunk/squirrel in her nightly prayers but not now. Not here.

Apparently Andrea had pressed a button or something as the cutest mouse that the raccoon had ever seen entered the room. “Yes Miss Thomas” the girl asked, her voice sounding like children’s laughter in a Summers field.

“Please have these young ladies report to this conference room Sara. Inform them that this is an employment interview. Thank you” the housecat explained as she gave a slip of paper to the mouse. Andrea then watched as the dark furred girl vanished. “It is rather sad” she said softly. “She is a kangaroo mouse yes, quite purebred. But a dark kangaroo mouse and they are not well known on this side of the Mississippi river. It will be difficult to find her gainful employment next year.” ‘It would also be almost impossible to sell her for what she is really worth’ she finished in her mind.

“Why is that” Bethany asked. She had been intrigued by the small woman who seemed to have more energy balled up in her than any body that size could support.

Andrea returned her attention to Bethany, giving her a well practiced sad smile. “We do not accept black fur’s here, not even those who’s great great grandparents are the source. Thus you must understand that Sara Drako has no blackfur blood. But the average whitefur cannot see that, they only see her coloration, making their false assumptions from only that. Even Mrs Portland had to research to ascertain if Sara was classified as Blackfur or not before accepting her. She is in fact a quarter Amer-Indian and we decided to have at least one Amer-Indian in this years class as an experiment. Not only does it expose our other students to such differences, it exposes us to new ideas. We will do our best, but I fear that she will find herself somewhere back home working and she so much wants to see the world.”

Bethany opened her notebook, setting her pen at the ready beside her. “She will graduate next year?” she asked.

“That is the schedule Miss Cartwright” Andrea admitted, pulling oh so lightly on that hook.

Turning to a clean page Bethany carefully wrote Sara’s name down. “Perhaps by then I may know of a position for her. She is rather sweet so I will contact you about this time next year.”

“That would be delightful Miss Cartwright” Andrea agreed, preparing to set her hook. “It would be a shame for such an enthusiastic young woman to find herself teaching her skills on a dusty reservation after all. Especially considering how hard she has worked and how much of her own money she has already spent.”

Unaware of what had just been done Bethany accepted that well baited hook, planting it deeply within herself. “Very well then, if you will kindly append my interest in her to her records I will assure that whomever I hire will keep you aware of my location. It would be a delight to assist someone for once instead of being assisted myself.” She turned her pages back. “I would like to speak with them all together, then those who are interested. Those I would like to speak with separately” she continued. “I will not make my final decision today but look over my notes tonight. Tomorrow I will return and speak with the one whom I wish to employ. Is this acceptable?”

“Quite, in fact preferred” Andrea agreed. “Ah, they are coming now. I shall introduce you then I must return to my own work.”

“Thank you” the raccoon agreed. She waited calmly for the six to be ushered in, unaware of the quite instructions being given her prospective employees just outside the rooms door.

“This” Andrea explained to the six young students before they entered the room. “Is Miss Cartwright. She has come looking for a personal secretary. One who will accompany her on her travels as both secretary and companion, a close companion. The pay she proposes to offer is better than most but not of the highest possible hopes. Still remember, you are not any of you star students thus this is a better pay than any of you could hope to expect, especially you Julia. She will speak to all of you at once then one at a time. Her decision will be made tonight, when she is not being impressed by your presence so be upon your very best behavior, answer all of her questions truthfully and without hesitation but remember. Offer nothing that she does not ask for until you are hired. At that point you will belong to her, your secrets are her common knowledge and her secrets may never be told to anyone else no matter how she may treat you. Now follow me in please.”

Bethany was impressed by the six who entered though she failed to stand. Her father had impressed upon her that employers never stood unless the person they were meeting was equal or above their station. An employee was never an equal no matter how well known or cared for. “Thank you Andrea” she said, allowing the houscat to make her departure and return to her own duties. She studied the six in silence. A hound, two vixens, a mink, ocelot and a rabbit. All of various sizes, coloration and probably tastes.

“Ladies” she said in greeting “I am Bethany Cartwright and I will tell you this up front. My father owns the companies to which I will find myself assigned. It is his desire that I learn business from the ground up. To this I have so far been a stock girl, delivery driver, secretary and ranchpaw. I am now to face my first instruction into upper management but I may spend weeks working on the floors as a common laborer. It is how my father learned and had I been a son I would still be learning the exact same way.”

She held out her paws, pads up. “As you can see I have scars and calluses from my education. I will tell you this, stringing barbed wire on an open range alone under a wide sky may sound an exotic adventure, but after a week of doing so one learns that it is nothing but necessary hard and painful work. Painful even through heavy gloves.”

She returned her paws to the table, searching each ones eyes for a moment. Two she noted would not make eye contact. “As my secretary you will be with me at all times but I do not expect or desire you to assist me in any labor I may be assigned. Your job will be as you have spent these last two years studying. To be a secretary. To this I add companion, as even in the most civilized city a woman walking alone is a target. You will work for me, eat with me most times and live with me. For all this I am prepared to offer the yearly sum of $625. This is above the average you might expect for entry level, however I will be moving quite often, even traveling sometimes out of the country. Therefore I feel that some greater pay may help compensate for the continuing movement. In addition I will pay for up to three dresses a year. Are their any questions?”

There were none, so she opened her book to the first name. “Anne Stillman, will you please stay” she asked. “The rest of you. Please step out and find a place to rest. I will call you in each at a time.” She had no idea which one was Anne Stillman and had wanted it that way. Anne turned out to be one of the vixens.

Chapter Four

In Mrs. Portland’s office Andrea was giving her report to the older vixen. “It was exceptionally simple to guide her to the special girls” the housecat reported. “When she saw Sara Drako I thought that she was going to pounce upon her right then.”

Looking up from her desk Mrs. Portland studied the feline standing at attention in front of her desk. “Perhaps we should arrange a more personal meeting between the two. How that filthy Indian got through our gates I can not understand, I was afraid that I would be unable to offer her even one job opening next year. She is intelligent, I give her that. She excels at challenges as every attempt I have thought of to cast her out she has shattered like a glass wall. Get rid of her to that raccoon and I will ensure that your bonus is quite lively next year. A pet perhaps? We see many prospective girls after all.”

“My own pet...” Andrea took careful control of herself. “Yes Mam. I believe that I have already hooked her quite well. Another meeting perhaps? I could send that filthy little redfur over to her hotel later tonight. Perhaps delivering the standard Employer forms that I would have accidently forgotten to give her today.”

“Yes” the vixen agreed, leaning back in her chair. “Insure that she arrives an hour after Miss Cartwright has dinner. She should be most relaxed by then and quite open to suggestion. The poor fledgling, tossed from her safe warm nest to fly upon her own power, yes, a perfectly acceptable mark. Go to her hotel right now. Insure that her food will be drugged the normal way, just enough to make her somewhat sleepy.” She picked up a sheet of paper, Andrea’s notes. “Room 413 at the Bradford. A good hotel but the staff is bribable. Blackie will be delighted to accept your money, he enjoyed Francine quite a bit last Christmass I understand. I think that twenty dollars should be enough. See Miss Farmer for the funds before you leave. Yes. A slight sedative in her food should be perfect, too bad she isn’t feline. A bit of catnip oil in her rooms would be better and vanish in a few hours of airing out.”

“Yes Mam. Immediately.” Andrea turned and left. So, they had a Sapphic leaning employer downstairs. One who would take from their paws one of the like from them, helping secure the schools reputation of finding work for everyone. Plus she was interested in that filthy half-breed as well. If all went well they should at least be able to blackmail Miss Cartwright into finding a position for Sara.

Chapter Five

Downstairs of Andrea’s office Bethany was interviewing her last selection. So far she was only certain that neither the hound nor vixens were what she wanted. Both vixens seemed to think that their primary job would be caring for her own physical needs. At least, both had in one way or another indicated that sharing a bed would ‘never be a problem.’ The hound had simply been a bit to assertive, too aggressive. That left the mink, ocelot and rabbit to deal with and at the moment she was speaking to the mink.

“Miss Greene I understand that you are Jewish. Will working on Saturdays be a problem to you?”

“It should not be Miss Cartwright” the mink answered. “Though I am Jewish I am not Orthodox Jewish. I belong to the Reform Judaism path. This allows me flexibility in my daily life that Orthodoxy does not.”

“Thank you for your honesty” Bethany said. “I would of course make every effort to allow you to attend Temple. though in all honesty there may be times when neither of us will have our respective spiritual houses available. Although I myself do not believe that I must enter a church to worship God, I am quite aware that this is a minority view. You would of course require a special dietary lifestyle, correct?”

“Yes Mam” the mink agreed. “I would be quite happy to make such a list available to you.”

Smiling the raccoon made another note in her book. “That will not be necessary Miss Greene, I will accept that you are aware of what you can and cannot eat. Thus you will avoid those foods just as I will avoid shrimp. You see I am somewhat allergic to shrimp. It is not a health hazard but the resulting symptoms are quite uncomfortable. I would no more ask or expect you to eat ham than I would expect you to serve me shrimp. Now regarding clothing...”

When she walked out of the Secretary School Bethany Cartwright was certain of one thing. She had reduced her choices to two. Julia, the rabbit, had a nervous tick to her left eye. This had so bothered Bethany that she had cut the interview short. That left the mink Ruth Greene or the ocelot Ginger Williams. Who in their right mind, would name a girl Ginger? It sounded like some cheap actress’s name. Still both were, to her feeling, good choices. But which to choose? Perhaps after dinner she would have time to decide. After all between them there was only their religious beliefs to consider. Ruth was Jewish, and Ginger. Bethany smiled to herself. Ginger, after some evading of the question, had finally admitted that she followed ‘the old ways.’ Then had stood to leave only to be surprised when Bethany had asked another question.

It was something that Nancy’s Alpha had told her that kept the raccoon from discarding Ginger. ‘No one knows the truth. All we know is we are going to die. Not even on Cranium Island are we certain what happens after. Though we are now certain that something does. So take your best shot, but be prepared to dodge if you miss.’ Those words had not changed Bethany’s beliefs one bit but it had opened her mind to others choices. Thus the ocelots ‘old ways’ had simple interested her.

Chapter Six

Andrea caught the little mouse Sara just as the she was leaving for the day, her latest study material carefully stacked in her arms. It was of course exactly what the housecat had planned. “Sara dear”“ she said, stopping the overworked girl in her tracks. “I know that with Miss Simpson ill that tomorrow that you have no morning classes and I have made a serious mistake today. You remember that delightful Lady raccoon who visited today?”

“Yes Mam” the black kangaroo mouse admitted. “She seems sweet.”

“Yes. Well I simply forgot to give her the standard Employer forms before she left. We simply must have them filled out and as she will return tomorrow afternoon to hire one of our students. Well, could you be so kind as to take them over to her after your dinner. It will save her and Mrs. Portland so much time after all.”

“Certainly Andrea.” Setting her workbooks on a nearby table she returned to accept the envelope. “Room 413, at the Bradford. Oh dear, that will be a long walk.”

“No need to walk dear, here is two dollars. I believe that a cab ride too and from the Bradford is eighty cents each way. Make certain that you get a receipt from the driver each trip and please keep the extra money for your trouble. Lord knows all you students can use every dime that you have.” She paused as if thinking. “By the way, have you seen the changes in next years Morals Clause?” the housecat asked.

“Changes? I wasn’t aware” the mouse admitted, beginning to look worried.

Taking another page from her valise Andrea offered it to the smaller woman. “I have it underlined. ‘Expulsion for morals including intimate activities with males or females.’ I’m afraid that includes you Sara.”

“ME?” But... I... Never...”

Fighting hard not to laugh the feline retrieved her paper from the mouse’s now shaking paws. “There have been complaints from some of the students about your looks and certain comments.” Actually Andrea knew that there had not been one complaint. Most young women Sara’s age either had no experience or knew to keep their mouths shut. But certain instructors knew what to look for and once notified Mrs Portland had investigated. Sara’s bedroom contained certain publications normally expected to be found in a young boys room not a proper young womans.

“I am afraid that for you and Regina there will be no openings next school year.” Andrea continued. “Yet you are such an excellent student.”

“But Andrea” the mouse almost sobbed. “Everything I have, I borrowed from my relatives. What will I tell them? No one will hire me with only half an education and no certificate.”

“I truly am sorry Sara. It is my responsibility to insure the morals of this school.” She paused again, seemingly thinking of something. “Perhaps though if you were to do me a small favor then I can assure you that there will be a place for you.”

“And Regina?” the mouse asked. Regina and Sara were good friends the feline knew.

“I don’t think so, you see that would require something very special. I will have to think about that but you Sara. Miss Cartwright? Mrs. Portland is aware that she chose all six graduating Sapphic students to interview. They of course will graduate as this new morals clause will not go into effect until next school year. Mrs Portland asked me to discover if Miss Cartwright will abuse our student. But, well you see I am not Sapphic. The idea turns my stomach dear Sara. You though.”

“What... What do I have to do Andrea?” the smaller kangaroo-mouse asked, tears held barely in check.

Bending down to reach eye level with the shorter mouse Andrea stared deeply into those tear filled eyes. “It is a forgone conclusion that Miss Cartwright will bed her employee, we have seen this before. Normally we guide our students away from such employers. As men are wont to do they would later abandon our students when the inevitable occurs. This I don’t think would occur with Miss Cartwright considering the biological impossibility. But I need to know if she be loving or abusive. Will you take it upon yourself to discover this? Then report back to me in full detail?”

Sara simply nodded yes, too troubled to speak at the moment. Finally she took a deep breath. “I will be allowed to return to school?”

“My word. If you wish I will sign a pledge to that right now. We need to insure that all our students are given our best protection when they leave these doors. Certainly we cannot protect them every step of their lives, but insuring that their first employment is safe. Yes, that is our responsibility. Since you would be putting your own safety on the line I certainly would have to reward you somehow. Losing those complaints and speaking to Mrs. Portland on your behalf would be I think, be equal payment.”

Sara took a deep breath, letting her mind work over what was facing her. Finally she nodded yes. “I will want that signed document Andrea. Not because I do not trust you but because we students have always been told that a verbal contract is worth the paper that it is written on.”

Nodding her own agreement Andrea walked to the currently empty desk that Miss Farmer used. “I am honestly glad that you demanded this” she said as she took out paper and pen, dipping the pin in Miss Farmers ink pot. “It proves to me that we are training all of you correctly and as I am personally responsible for the safety of each of you when selecting possible employers, this warms my heart.”

She completed writing, dating then signing the page with a flourish. Blowing lightly on the paper Andrea waited until the ink was dry, only then did she place the page in Sara’s hand. “Will this be sufficient?”

Reading the page carefully Sara smiled. “Thank you Andrea. Knowing that I may continue working on my degree is important to me so I will do this, but please do not think that I will enjoy it.”

“I understand Sara” the feline agreed. “Do what you must then tomorrow report to me what you have learned. Afterwards we will both see Mrs. Portland. If Miss Cartwright is gentle we will allow her to employ one of our girls. If she is not, then we will simply show her the door and blacklist her.”

“Regina?” the mouse asked softly.

“As a favor to you I will try but I do not know. Now off with you, quickly now.”

“Certainly Andrea and thank you ever so much.” Gathering her workbooks again the little kangaroo mouse was quickly out the schools door.

“And if you sleep in your own bed tonight” Andrea said to the closed door. “I shall certainly have words with Blackie Saturday. He personally guaranteed me that Miss Cartwright will jump your bones so she had better.” She walked to the front doors, carefully locking them. Sara was always the last student out and the faculty had their own keys. Getting rid of one of their Sapphic problems while arranging the silent disposal that filthy half-breed redfur upon her graduation next year, all the same day what great luck. Regina was not that great of a student though, she was falling into the lower third of each class but there was no morals change. What existed now was more than enough to have thrown Sara out but they always had calls for Sapphic secretaries, some submissive as well and as Bethany Cartwright proved not all employers were male after all. “Still. I will have to think of some task for dear sweet Regina. Perhaps investigating the Police Commissioners secretary” she said to herself.

Turning around she headed for Mrs. Portland’s office. It was time to set the accounts straight, there had been a letter of interest in today, now she and Mrs. Portland had to determine if it was real or another attempt to slip them up by the police. Only due diligence could keep them safe, their students though were completely on their own once they graduated.

Chapter Seven

Bethany was sipping a glass of red wine, one that she had ordered through room service on a lark when the knock came to her hotel room door. For some reason two glasses had been delivered which had amused her. Another time, another place most probably but tonight she was alone. Oh well, most likely they were not used to such orders by a single person, or perhaps they were used to ‘visitors’ arriving. Still holding her half full glass she rose and walked to the door, wondering who it could be.

Keeping the door closed she leaned forward a bit towards its surface. “Who is it please” she asked in her not quite friendliest voice, she was beginning to feel tired but it had been a long day for her after all. She was having trouble concentrating and that always meant it was time for bed. Still she so wanted to enjoy her wine as it was the first since her quickening with her son that she had allowed herself.

“Sara” came a muffled answer. “Sara Drako from the secretary school? I have some papers that Andrea forgot to give you.”

“Oh, Sara” the raccoon repeated as an image of a very cute rump moving away from her come to mind. A cute rump, with a very sweet tail attached to it. Since being forced to stay away from males the rather hungry raccoon had eventually started fantasizing about her own sex. Not that she hadn’t before with Louise, quite enjoyably so in face. Bethany had come to the decision that she was in truth bi-sexual with a leaning towards males, given the choice.

“A moment please” she answered, moving back in order to remove the chair that blocked her door, a trick Nancy had taught her during ‘The Case of The Missing Candle Case.’ Setting it aside she unlocked and opened the door. “Papers?” she asked.

“These” Sara answered, holding up a thin envelope. “May I come in? There are a couple of wolves out here.”

Bethany let the little kangaroo mouse in then stuck her head out and looked. Exactly as Sara had said there were two rather large wolves halfway down the hall, both currently looking her way. They looked yummie she thought, then pushed that thought down. Father would whip her until her bones showed if she caught again, then he would disown her or more likely sell her to her aunt as a breeding mare, such an option had been explained to her while serving her time upon that ranch. More to frighten her she knew, such things did not happen in the twentieth century but it had its desired effect. Retreating to her room she shut then locked the door. As a precaution she slipped the chair back under her doors knob, effectively making the door near impossible to break down with any ease. But they had looked delicious a part of her mind noted.

“Now again, why are you here Sara?” She asked again as she turned around. ‘Why can’t I remember something that simple’ she thought. She had only had a glass and a half of wine after all. For one who had spent warm nights chugging white lightning with her detective friend a single glass of wine was nothing.

“These papers” the mouse repeated. “The ones Andrea forgot to give you.”

“Oh yes. Papers.” Setting her wine glass down on a sideboard Bethany held out her paw. “I guess that I had best read them then. Please, have a seat. Would you like some wine while you wait? There is another glass.”

Holding her paw out in a negative fashion the mouse shuddered. “I don’t.. Do not drink Miss Cartwright. Indians make very bad drunks, even one quarter Indians.”

Retrieving her wine glass then returning to the chair that she had been sitting in Bethany carefully opened the envelope. “I am sorry to hear that Sara as it is one of my minor vices. Alcohol. Especially red wine. Now, what have we here and do please sit down.”

Sara sat, reaching up to unbutton her blouse a bit when the raccoon was looking at those pages. She had a mission and unless she wanted to spend the rest of her life selling blankets, pottery and more than likely herself in order to repay those loans she had best be successful. But it made her feel dirty, cheap and dirty. Not that the raccoon wasn’t attractive but to use her so. Yes, dirty was how it felt.

Bethany abruptly realized that the print was too small and her apparent intoxication too great for her eyes to focus on the words. “Would you please bring my sewing glasses Sara? They are in the bedroom on the night stand.” Still in her youth the raccoon did not need glasses to read, but Bethany’s mother had shown her how having such glasses while treading a needle made the job easier on the eyes. Perhaps they would help here.

When Sara returned with the glasses she stopped next to the sitting Bethany. She really wasn’t that much shorter than the raccoon as the top of her head probably reached the others nose. But when standing next to Bethany her now slightly open blouse was exactly at the right level.

“My. You are well endowed” Bethany noted absently as she put on her glasses. “And such lovely soft fur. Well, sit down and I will read these quickly.

Quickly though wasn’t what Bethany’s mind was interested in as the mouse had sat on the floor next to her, not in a chair, Bethany kept finding her gaze returning to those wonderfully soft looking, lightly furred mounds. Still she plodded on, managing to finish the three pages in just under three quarters of an hour. Setting them aside she stifled a yawn. “Apparently only permission pages to allow them to insure that I am whom I say I am and that I am capable of paying what I offer. But I am too tired to sign anything right now, certainly nothing legally binding.”

She turned to face the mouse, who’s blouse seemed to be gaping open even more. Or had it always been that open? A bit brazen for such a young woman the raccoon thought. “Will you tell me about your school” she asked, deciding to find a way to remain in this delightful things presence a little longer.

“The school Miss Cartwright?” Sara asked. By now her last girlfriend, well her only girlfriend, had been all over her. Miss Cartwright though seemed made of much stiffer stuff. This would, the mouse realized, be difficult. Not impossible but certainly not as easy as she had hoped.

“Yes. You see I had a friend from your school” Bethany explained. “She was murdered but I still remember her fondly and pray for her each night. We had good times together and in return she taught me a little of your occupation but she never spoke of the school itself or how she was educated.” Picking up her wine glass Bethany slacked her thirst, setting the now empty glass back down. “If you don’t mind I’d really like to know.”

Sara felt victory coming, for Bethany’s eyes were now locked tightly on the mouses chest, while only one button remained to restrain what her roommate once called the ‘Grand Tetons.’ For she hadn’t worn any unders knowing that she would have to be completely wonton in order to be successful in her mission. In a low voice she began telling her prey about the school, how one applied and the classes one took. All the while Bethany seemed to lean ever so much closer. Finally, as she was explaining some esoteric class that she had taken the mouse tripped that last button.

Two things happened almost at the same instant. Her bountiful breasts escaped their unnatural cages and the raccoon cooed as she fell to her knees beside the mouse. ‘Obviously she has been drugged’ Sara told herself. ‘But by whom? Did someone expect to slip in upon Miss Cartwright? But that chair will certainly deny them entry.’ Then her mind gave up almost all coherent thought as Bethany explored and it quickly became a battle of whom could undress the other first. Sara’s last coherent thought before she felt the mattress hit her back was that someone had wasted a perfectly good drug on the raccoon. They were not going to have her this night.

Chapter Eight

Bethany woke with a sour taste in her mouth and a cold tail. She tried to open her eyes only to find them gummed shut. Damning herself for drinking too much she reached up with one paw, carefully rubbing away the jagged boulders that had sealed her eyelids shut. Brilliant light flooded her eyes as she opened those lids, blinding her until her retina could adjust. When they did the brilliant light turned out to be nothing more than weak sunlight peeking around closed curtains as her bedroom was actually quite dark. Turning her head towards the night stand she managed to focus on her travel clock. Nine twelve, it had to be in the morning she decided, at least she did not need to be at the school until four. Laying her head back down she yawned and noticed something.

Her bed was lumpy. Seriously lumpy! Monster bedbugs perhaps?

Carefully lifting herself she was stunned to find a peacefully sleeping Sara Drako underneath her. The younger kangaroo mouse completely sans clothing. “Oh my dear God what have I gone and done now?” the raccoon asked herself softly. Yet apparently not softly enough as the mouse’s eyes flickered open just then.

“Tah was fun. Can we do it again” the kangaroo mouse asked sleepily.

“Fun?” Bethany asked. “Didn’t I just rape you?”

Sara giggled softly, reaching up to pull the heavier raccoon back down on her. “I don’t think its called rape if I helped” she whispered into Bethany’s ear. “Can we stay this way forever? I love it, you’re crushing me into the mattress and it feels so good. I feel like we are one being, bound forever.”

“Its after nine in the morning your already late for school” Bethany countered.

Sara giggled again. “No morning class today. Don’t have to be back until one. Mmmm... Push me into the mattress harder. Please?”

“No Sara, we both have things to do and I for one don’t know how this happened.” She rolled off the bed, ending up standing in the cool room with nothing but her own rumpled fur to warm her. “The last thing I remember are those files you brought so please I will bath first, then you. After that we will talk over breakfast.”

“Yes Miss Cartwright” the defeated mouse agreed. Sara watched as the raccoon walked away, her mussed banded tail swinging opposite her walk as it helped her body balance. ‘It was worth it’ she thought, watching until the bathroom door closed, and that wonderful black mask over those oh so dark eyes, so sinister looking. They were eyes that burned into ones soul binding the little kangaroo mouse to the raccoons soul. ‘Oh my but it was worth it.’

Breakfast proved to be lunch as by the time both ladies had cleaned up and Sara had located her clothing (what wasn’t ruined) or made repair over an hour had passed. Then Bethany had found herself needing to send a special telegram to her father so it was nearer eleven am than ten that they had entered the dining room. As they sat eating Bethany read the three pages that Sara had brought her the night before.

“Basically it simply allows the school to do a background check. To prove that my fathers company exists, that I am authorised to hire a secretary and that she will have at least six months paid employment.” She sat the papers down, having already signed them. “I could have done this today in ten minutes.”

Sara swallowed her food, looking up at the raccoon sitting across her. “It is what you said last night” she reminded Bethany.

“Then I was at least semi-coherent and smart enough to not sign anything at the time.” Bethany sipped her iced tea, taking a moment to look outside through the restaurants large windows for a moment. “I haven’t been that tired in a long time” she finally admitted. “Sara, what are you doing this weekend.”

“Study?” the mouse asked.

“I propose hiring you Saturday and Sunday as a companion and secretary” the raccoon countered. “At the sum of two dollars a day cash in advance. How does that sound to you?”

“Four dollars? But for what Miss Cartwright?” The kangaroo mouse looked around, wondering if this were some kind of joke. “But I’m not qualified yet” she whispered.

Bethany sat her glass down, hearing the ice tinkle as it adjusted. “You know Boston?” she asked.

“The better parts yes Mam” the Amer-Indian mouse admitted. “Downtown, the parks and zoo.”

“How about art galleries, museums and such?”

Sara looked down at her paws. “I’m sorry Miss Cartwright, that not really so much. We went on field trips, to give us an introduction but those things haven’t really interested me.”

Bethany laughed softly. “Until I stumbled across Nancy Rote they didn’t interest me either” she admitted. “Nancy introduced me to a lot of culture. ‘Bethany Cartwright’ she would say. ‘You are of a high enough social class that you must have some class of your own. If you wish to sleuth with me then you must learn more that what alcohol mixes best with what fruit.’” She giggled. “All I cared about then was parties and boys, Nancy opened my life up to so many other things. Rome, Greece, Egypt. Why I had little idea of how people lived just fifty years ago much less thousands of years ago.” She leaned forward, capturing those dark brown eyes with her own. “Well this weekend I will expose you to new ideas, new civilizations and most likely a new food or two.”

Sara giggled, looking down at her plate a moment. “I accept Miss Cartwright” she agreed. “When do I start working?”

“When do you get out of school today” came the response.

“Six PM Mam. I help with the Library, making certain that everything is returned and back in place.”

Six PM Bethany thought. Plenty of time to finish her last interview, or two. Depending upon if her father responded to that telegram and if his answer was yes. “Very well then I will expect you at my hotel no later than six thirty. Do you need cab fair?”

“No Mam. I have enough” the mouse answered.

“Then please finish your lunch as I have things to do today. So we will not see each other until six thirty and please do bring at least one pad and pen as I truly will have important letters to write.”

When lunch was done Bethany gave the mouse her pay, the agreed upon four dollars and another two ‘for helping with last nights paperwork.’ It was as close to paying her for sex that either wanted to step and in truth she would need the extra two dollars for cab fees. Students had such little extra money after all and the cab was so much faster than the much cheaper bus. Not even watching as the cab pulled away Bethany headed back to her hotel. It had been long enough, her father was not known for dallying about in business matters (though his fascination for trains was well known.) Thus she was unsurprised to find a telegram waiting for her when she picked up her key from the desk.

Chapter Nine

At four PM the raccoon entered Mrs. Portland’s Boston School of Secretarial Excellence for the second, and to her mind last time, at least for this year that was. She had made her decision, if the two young women whom she had chosen accepted they would both be returning to Creekside Saturday next with her to speak with her father. ‘It almost feels like I am bringing a young man home for fathers blessings’ she thought as she walked to Miss Farmer’s desk. She knew though that her father liked meeting his employees when he could and though the woman she chose would be Bethany’s personal employee, Bethany herself was legally her fathers employee. Besides he wanted to insure that his daughter had made the correct choice, while such a meeting would also allow him to give the young lady in question certain background information about the company that his daughter did not yet have.

“Ah, Miss Cartwright” the ferret said in greeting, standing as she spoke. “Your return means that you have made a selection?”

“Yes Miss Farmer” the raccoon answered. “I would like to speak to Miss Greene and Miss Williams please. May I use the same room as before?”

“Certainly. I will ask for Mrs. Portland to join you in a few moments, it is customary you understand for her to attend such meetings.”

“I would prefer not” Bethany countered. “Though she may ask them anything she wishes after I leave I prefer my conversations not to be tainted by another’s possible interest.”

“But..” the ferret started, then stopped. “As you wish Miss Cartwright. It is customary but not required, I will have them sent to you immediately. Which would you like to see first?”

“Miss Williams please” Bethany answered. “And thank you.”

Bethany had spoken with the ocelot Miss Williams for some time before setting the contract her father’s lawyer had prepared for her out on the table. “What you must know Miss Williams is that you will be hired directly as my secretary and companion. Though my fathers company will be paying your salary on the books it will be through my salary. Still, should for any reason I lose my position with fathers company and if I do not follow certain rules that will happen, then a job of equal pay will be made to you within the company. You are thus protected from any stupidity that I myself may preform.”

Looking up from the papers the ocelot pondered those words. “There is a reason this may occur Miss Cartwright?” She asked gently.

“That is the other thing you must know” Bethany admitted, her heart in her mouth. “It is a morals clause in my employment. You see I have been a rather wild girl these last two years and I fear that I am an unwed mother. My son was adopted by a far away Aunt and I have vowed to her that for the next twenty-one years exactly one third of my income will be sent for his upkeep and education. But I am not the kind of girl my mother raised.” She held out her paws, showing their damaged surfaces again. “Part of my aunts punishment for such stupidity are these paws. ‘You will learn a trade young lady. My sister did not raise you to be some ignorant farm paws baby factory’ she told me.”

Abruptly Bethany giggled. “Actually, I found that I do like hard work. There is a sense of accomplishment in seeing something you worked on yourself when it is completed. A sense of, I made that.” She stared at the ocelot, noting that Ginger Williams was not meeting her eyes and in fact hadn’t since coming into the room. “Miss Williams, part of your employment will to be to insure, by whatever means that you may wish to employ, that I do not ‘play with the boys.’ Ever again.”

At those last two words Gingers head snapped up, for the first time she locked eyes with the raccoon and discovered that she couldn’t break that lock. Not on her own. “Any means?” she asked softly, now afraid of the power she found in those eyes.

“As long as it does not permanently harm my body or my health Miss Williams any means.” Bethany turned to withdraw her fathers telegram from her satchel, her act allowing Ginger to escape from that amazingly powerful gaze, one that Bethany herself did not realize she had for it had emerged while riding the fence line of her aunts ranch while her son grew within her body. Those who had ridden with her and had served in the Great War knew what it was though.

Sitting up she placed the yellow envelope in front of her. “If you decline this offer” she continued. “And you have every right too taking my proven lack of morals into consideration. My father has an opening for a trained secretary in Creekside. The pay will be the same but there will be no clothing allowance. I can assure you that Mr. Harcourt Worton is a kind man and has never had a complaint from his secretaries. Regrettable Karla is leaving employment to marry her long time sweetheart. As he is a Sargent in the Marines she will be moving to Mindanao with him after the wedding thus there is yet another opening for you should you prefer it. This telegram is an offer of that employment Miss Williams.”

“I see” the ocelot answered. “Yet the fact of my personal Religion does not bother you?”

Bethany shrugged. “I am quite comfortable in my own belief Miss Williams. I can not see that your beliefs endanger me or my own beliefs no more than Miss Greene being Jewish does. It was a non-issue in my decision, truthfully I never gave it a thought.” She gave the ocelot a soft smile. “Nor did the fact that both of you are Sapphic bother me one bit. I have tasted that life with my friend and though I find it interesting, I do not believe that being close to you for extended periods may infect me with some imaginary Sapphic Seed.” She leaned forward a bit. “Even if you are forced to use your body to keep me away from boys, you see Miss Williams if I catch again my father has given me his word. He will use a riding whip on my bare body until my bones show, then he will expel me from his house and family for all time. Naked, with nothing. I am not a fool Miss Williams but I do have a serious weakness. That being males. Most especially of the equine species thus I will happily accept any help to control that weakness.”

“I see. And if I decline your employment, taking your fathers offer instead?”

“Then I will offer the job to Miss Greene who is waiting outside.” Leaning back the raccoon thought for a moment. “Miss Williams. The choice between you two did not exist. Taking into consideration everything that counted neither your personal religious beliefs or choice of bed partners mattered. There was not a grain of sands difference between you. I truly could not decide thus I spun a coin. You won that coin Miss Williams, Miss Greene had the same possibility.”

“I see. Then I will accept your offer Miss Cartwright with no reservations. I could not hope for a more open, or honest employer and truthfully, the idea of running men away from such an attractive body does amuse me. But may I ask one personal question?”

“That being” the raccoon asked.

“A boy, or a girl. I would like permission to pray for your child.”

“His name is Robert James Dillion, he is an equine, a black furred equine who oddly appears pureblooded. His father can neither read nor write and sees no reason to learn how. He is I am amused to admit, a mule yet I caught anyway. Such are the chances one takes. Bob was new to the area and Karl spoke highly of him. Had I remained with Karl I would not have the problem that I do but I did not and I do, so I accept it and move forward. But let us hope that you never have to demean yourself by using your body to stop my stupidity. I would never want to insult you such.”

“Robert is a good name for a son” the ocelot admitted. “Does he look anything like you?”

“I fear not” Bethany admitted. “He is equine, though not mule or donkey. Apparently his horse parentage was strongest. I just hope that he is not as dull witted as his father. I had to show Bob things that a male of his age and... endowment, should already have known.” She shook her head. “I would not wish to knowingly bring a dull witted child into this world. But I am Catholic and denying that birth is a mortal sin I could never live long with. Now, your graduation is next Friday?”

“Yes Mam” Ginger agreed. “We will be free by seven PM.”

“Very well then. As our train leaves at ten am Saturday morning I will expect you at my hotel by eight am.” She offered a different envelope to her new employee. “My current address and five dollars. Please have a good breakfast before arriving and leave nothing behind. We will depart for the train station no later than nine am. This will have us arriving in Creekside Monday afternoon, I understand that your family is nearby?”

“My family owns a farm South of Boston Miss Cartwright.” the ocelot answered.

“Then I suggest that you visit them this weekend to say your good-byes. It could be years before we return this way. Finally. I do have one last requirement Miss Williams, that being that you write your family a letter at least once a week.”

“That will never be a problem Miss Williams” Ginger agreed as she slid the signed contract back to her new employer. “Is there anything else?”

“Yes. Please ask Miss Greene to come in as you leave.” She picked up the yellow envelope. “It seems that Mr. Worton and the tractor factory will have a delicious looking mink working there instead of an attractive ocelot. As Mr. Worton is true to his wifes memory he will have no physical interest in his new employee.”

After the Ocelot had departed and Miss Greene had settled herself Millicent gave the slight Jewish woman a warm smile before talking. “First Miss Greene I have just accepted Miss William’s as my employee. Second, and more important, I have another employment offer for you.”

“Another?” the mink asked guardedly.

“Yes.” Millicent slid the yellow envelope over to her visitor. “You see Miss Greene when all things about you and Miss Williams were balanced, they were balanced. Since I was forced to decide between you by spinning a silver dollar I decided to contact my father first. Thus this offer was made for whichever of you I did not select. Please read the telegram Miss Greene, I will wait.”

When Ruth had completed reading she sat the yellow paper down. “Other than the clothing allowance, all as you offered? Amazing Miss Cartwright, we have been taught that but one offer may come our way at a time. Yet here, here is a second. May I ask why?”

Bethany explained to Ruth the same story as she had told Ginger. Ending with “When I came here it was under the secondary instructions to keep my eyes open for a replacement for Miss Winters. I fear that the other four, they simply were not acceptable as there were too many flaws within them. This does not mean that they cannot find good employment, it simply means that after working for Mr. Worton as long as I did and knowing my father that they would never hire such personalities.”

She leaned forward again, noting the Ruth could hold her eye contact but not for very long. In a side pocket of her mind Bethany wondered the why of that. “You and Miss Williams had nothing between you to declare one better than the other. You see Mr. Worton’s wife died a few months ago of natural causes thus part of my instructions were to insure that any secretary that I selected would not take advantage of his grief. I am certain that neither you nor Miss Williams would do that.”

“And how are you so certain of that” the mink asked softly.

“Because you are both Sapphic” the raccoon answered. “Sit down.”

Ruth had stood, but under those instructions sat again. “How” she asked softly.

“Andrea. She was, well, all six of you expressed some interest in me. Not just in my business, not just as a potential employer but in me. You for example keep looking at my chest, I happen to find that a complement Ruth. I know a great many woman my age who are much better endowed than I though I have grown a bit this last year. Carrying a child will do that you understand.” She noted the minks widening eyes, and automatic glance at her ring finger. “Unwed. A foolish lack of morals” Bethany continued. “Adopted out but within my family. Though I am richer for the experience I am poorer because I could not keep him. As an unemployed, uneducated woman and disowned had I kept him there is no way that I could have supported him short of the streets. So your interest in my chest does give me a warm feeling. Since my father has ordered me to stay away from all males until I marry, having a trustworthy companion is paramount to me.”

“And one who would share your bed?” the mink asked, a sly smile on her face.

“No. I honestly hadn’t seriously thought about that, I simply wanted a woman whom I could trust not to run off with some handsome male while I was in the middle of no-where. If it meant using my body to keep you I would, should some attractive vixen catch your eye that I know I can accept. But my mind is hung mainly upon males and it is with them that I will dream at night. Your virtue would have been safe, I hope.”

Ruth stood, touching the yellow paper. At Bethany’s nod she picked it up, slipping it into her jacket pocket. “I will accept your fathers offer” she announced. “I will send him a telegram immediately, accepting the position in the real hope that one day I may taste his daughter. You see Miss Cartwright you are a great deal more attractive than you think. A vixen? Please, brainless young woman with no sense of commitment the lot of them. But you, oh yes Miss Cartwright should Ginger be lucky and capture you I will curse her all the days of my life. I thank you for this employment, I shall not waste it. Good day Miss Cartwright, I sincerely hope that we meet again and in much less public conditions that I may prove to you my honest interest.”

Gathering her own things after Ruth had left Bethany wondered about the last two days. Somehow she now drew women to her but she could not understand why. Sara she assumed had been luck but Ruth, being so brazen and open? Then there was Ginger who had carefully left open the possibility. Not to forget the vixens, both of whom had come very close to undressing for her right there in the room. As she stepped out of the meeting room Andrea was waiting for her.

“You chose?” the housecat asked.

“Both” Bethany answered. “In a way, Miss Greene will be working at my fathers tractor plant near Creekside. She will be Mr. Wortons secretary. Miss Williams has accepted the task of traveling the country with me as my secretary and companion. All in all Andrea, an excellent day.”

“I see and a good day for us as well” the grey furred feline admitted. “As of today a full half of our graduating class now have jobs waiting. If only we could send them all out the door with employers that they have already met. I understand they you are hiring young Miss Drako for the weekend?”

“Quite right” Bethany agreed. “You see I need a companion while visiting the museums and art galleries. Though I do have real use for a secretary this weekend, having met Miss Drako and her being a student of this fine establishment. Well, I could think of no one better. Miss Williams will be saying goodbye to her family this weekend while Miss Greene will have no reason to be in my company as her position will be with another. As I have twice been approached by older males since arriving in Boston I felt having a companion I could trust with me would reduce such unwanted events.”

“Bluntly” Andrea continued. “Having another woman with you, one apparently an employee you are telling everyone that you are not a loose woman no matter what certain males may think.” She held up a paw to deflect the raccoons outrage. “Please Miss Cartwright, as a single woman myself I can not even shop without paws caressing my body or men pressing their attentions upon me. Your idea is an excellent one. I think that I shall take a first year student with myself on the weekends for exactly the same reason. I thank you for the idea.”

“Then I shall enjoy my weekend in Boston the more with a companion. I have found that a shared enjoyment is greater than one found alone.”

“I agree Miss Cartwright. Until we meet again.” Andrea stepped away, watching the raccoon take her leave. Those eyes though. She shivered, turning to report to Mrs. Portland’s office. Those eyes burned into one, taking hold of ones soul as though a great hook, and held. Held so strongly that even now the housecat could feel them. They were eyes that had seen eternity and found it amusing. ‘I would doubt that many women could refuse her. Or men for that matter’ the grey furred housecat thought as she climbed the stair, knowing in her soul that included even herself.

Chapter Ten

Her rooms phone ringing dragged Bethany out of her studies. Somehow her father had managed to get a local company that he did business with to send her a catalog of their products, along with basic instructions for casting, cleaning and firing ceramics. It was a great deal more information than she was ready to absorb at the moment though she was trying. ‘Maybe I should have attended that Catholic College after all’ she had thought.

Picking up her phone she was surprised to discover that the kangaroo mouse Sara Draco was downstairs already. Quickly the raccoon checked her clock, it was time already? Yes, though after looking at her clock she realized that Sara herself was barely on time. Thanking the desk manager she hurried into her shoes, grabbed her purse and headed downstairs. It looked like she was going to need the Amer-Indian for more than just a companion after all.

She found Sara Drako waiting calmly at the end of the check-in desk. A small travel case sat beside her, her satchel held in front of her. Its gold stamped emblem, proudly announcing her to be a student at Mrs. Portland’s Boston School of Secretarial Excellence with its pen and pad emblem in the center seemed to glow in the light. Approaching the desk Bethany waited until a clerk could get to her, then motioned Sara over. “This is Miss Sara Drako” she explained to the clerk. “She is working for me this weekend as my secretary thus will be staying in my room until Sunday evening. Will you please have a roll-away bed delivered to my room and I would like to sign her in if you do not mind. Room 413, Miss Cartwright. Bethany Cartwright.”

“Certainly Miss Cartwright” the elder and very dapper fox agreed. He spun the sign in register around and offered Sara a pen, though she had to stand on a small stool to easily reach the counter. “And you have two more telegraphs Miss Cartwright. I will get them immediately.”

“Thank you” Bethany said, watching as Sara carefully wrote her name into the ledger. Accepting the telegrams she slit one open with a claw specially sharpened for such things, one of the very good tricks that Nancy Rote had shown her. That claw required daily attention but would work on rope almost as easily as paper. Her first telegraph was from Mr. Worton, thanking her for finding Ruth thus taking from his shoulders a weight that at the moment he did not need. The other was from her father.

“Oh dear” she said, catching both Sara’s and the waiting fox’s attention. “Governor Rote is having one of his Come to Jesus meetings and he wants myself and my secretary there the Friday after I return.”

“Come to Jesus?” Sara asked as she laid the stylus down.

“It means that something important has happened at the Capital and he wants to talk to people he trusts before ripping someone else’s pelt off and shoving it down their throat. I fear that Miss Williams is going to have a rather shocking welcome to working for me as these things often take several days.”

“I did not know you were so important Miss Cartwright” the mouse admitted.

“I’m not Sara, I used to act as my fathers secretary at these meetings mainly because I’m best friends to the Governors only daughter. I guess he just wants a familiar face around. Well, lets go upstairs and get you fitted in then I’ll dictate replies for these. Afterwards I am taking you to buy a dress, that school uniform is simply not acceptable for museums and art galleries. Certainty not to visit The Lanes Saturday afternoon.”

She nodded then to Sara the act informing the younger woman that they were leaving then lead her towards the elevator. Behind her the fox, his eyes quite wide now quickly reached for a special phone. One raccoon’s value had just shot through the roof. People of her level were granted anything they wanted. Anything. He had to get the word out and quickly. As he waited for the hotel manager to answer his phone the fox was trying to understand how a personal friend of a Governor, even one from a mid-western state had slipped through their careful intelligence screen. Bethany Cartwright should have stood out like a beacon and when he discovered who her father was, heads begin to roll. The first was a ferret commonly known as Blackie who’s drugging attempt had, at the time, been slyly allowed. Then had been laughed at the ferret when he could not even get into his targets room even with the master pass key, a good drug completely wasted. Now that the fox knew who this seemingly bumpkin raccoon was, he was very glad that Blackie had finally struck out as the results would have been more than a disaster.

When they reached Bethany’s room she ordered the mouse to place her case in the bedroom and to bring her pad and pen to the sitting room. “Do you like lemonade” the raccoon asked as she sat in the best chair, remembering that her temporary employee did not drink alcohol.

“Yes Miss Cartwright, when I can afford it” Sara answered from the bedroom. When she returned to the sitting room it was to find Bethany talking on the phone.

“Yes. A large pitcher of un-iced lemonade and two glasses. Room 413. No, we will be taking supper in the dining room thank you.” Hanging up the phone Bethany was about to speak when there was a knock on her door. “Sara, get that please” she ordered, finding it easy to drop into the employer/employee relationship.

“Your roll-away Mam” the mouse announced, stepping aside to allow a rather well dressed brown bear to enter.

“Bedroom” Bethany ordered, surprised to note a pretty vixen following him, sheets and a pillow in her arms. “Huh. Service with a smile” she told Sara when she noted the vixens interest. “Now, if you will take up your pen.”

She was just finishing the reply to Mr. Worton when the lemonade arrived, the room service boy leaving with the bellhop and the maid. She ignored all three though Sara watched them, then carefully closed and locked the door behind them. Afterwards the mouse slipped that same chair under the doorknob just as Bethany had done the night before.

“Stop there” Bethany ordered as the mouse returned to her chair.

“Yes Miss Cartwright” Sara agreed, stopping in her tracks.

“Let me see you” Bethany ordered and when Sara had lifted her arms, turning around Bethany snorted. “Now that I have seen that awful dress let me see you.”

“You mean” Sara asked, motioning at her clothing with both paws. At the raccoon’s nod of agreement Sara began to undress. When she stood in nothing but her fur Bethany pointed at the chair Sara had been seated in.

“Now the wire to my father, when I tell him how it was written he will blush to his toe-nails though he will enjoy the story. Besides, I like the view.”

“Yes Miss Cartwright.” Sara found that matching gazes with her temporary employer was impossible, even with the friendly voice that Bethany was using. “Miss Williams, she will?”

“Let us hope not” Bethany laughed. “I like her but I did not hire her to warm my bed. I hired you for that, didn’t I. I do so prefer males but am now denied them until I can find some spineless male to marry who is both intelligent and very well endowed. You though, we have already gone well past this point. So tell me dear Sara, why shouldn’t I enjoy your beauty?”

“I uh.. Miss Cartwright. I mean...” Sara fell into a loss for words. This was exactly the event she had been taught to avoid yet here she was, in the worst possible position for a proper young lady. Worse, she was enjoying it. “There is no reason Miss Cartwright” she finally answered. “None at all.” She picked up her pen and paper, realizing just how wicked her situation was. Were even Andrea to become aware of it she would be released for Morals, with no hope of return. ‘I will be selling pots, paintings, blankets and myself on the dusty road until I am old and useless. But for her. Those eyes, they burn right to my heart. For Bethany I will allow anything, anything at all.’

Bethany though was completely unaware of this. For her it was a bit of fun, the Amer-Indian was at a huge disadvantage after last night and with no local family Sara had no protection. She was enjoying making the mouse do what she wanted and from a foggy memory knew that it would be well worth it tonight. At least from the scent gradually filling the room she knew that Sara had no complaint. Maybe being with a woman would be as good as with a man, or at least enough to slake her burning hunger. If not enough, there were toys she could purchase later. Tonight, and tomorrow she would find out so returning to the business at paw she began her reply to her father.

When both wires were ready she accepted them from her temporary secretary. “Dress again Sara, we are going out.” She watched in silence as Sara dressed, reaching out once to run her fingers along the mouses tail. This elected a sigh of pleasure from the mouse who hadn’t felt such since her last night at the reservation.

“We are going to buy you a dress” Bethany explained. “Along with sensible shoes. Then we will return here to have dinner, after dinner you are going to help me understand those books.” She pointed at the stack on the table. “Whenever that door is blocked by the chair you will remain undressed. Is that clear?”

“Yes Miss Cartwright” Sara answered, still buttoning her dress.

“When you are in the dress I am buying you will not wear unders. Is that understood.”

“No.. Outside? With all those people” the mouse gasped.

“Until Sunday night you are mine, yes?” Bethany asked softly. She reached out, placing her paw under the mouses chin then lifting her face up. Their eyes locked and after just a few moments Sara lost the battle.

“I am yours Miss Cartwright. As long as you want me” she whispered back in a hopelessly defeated voice.

“That is a delight to hear” the raccoon giggled, not believing her luck. “If I can I will hire you when you finish school but never as a Secretary. Understand? Never as a secretary, plus I would very much like to meet your people and understand both your culture and beliefs.”

“I understand” Sara agreed, completely lost in those black upon black eyes, her entire being drawn into that world. “I will be whatever you want Miss Cartwright. Whenever you want.”

Leaning down Bethany kissed the smaller mouse, feeling the unexpected power fill her as Sara’s body melded against her own. ‘What is this’ she asked herself, even as she ran her paws over Sara’s body. ‘How can anyone surrender themselves this way and how did I manage it.’ Still she spent a few minutes enjoying what she now had before gently breaking free. “When that door is sealed it is Bethany. Only then. Now finish dressing” she husked. “Then we will send these messages and find a dress shop. Something in mid-dark blue I should think.”

“Yes Bethany” Sara agreed, relishing the right to use that name no employee, no matter how close was normally allowed to utter. She would have agreed to walking in the street naked had that been what this woman wanted for Sara Youngblood had completely lost herself to a power that had entered Bethany’s soul as she rode those long miles of fence alone.

Sending the two telegrams was simplicity in itself. Bethany waited while Sara transferred the information to the correct forms, paid the cost (there was already enough billed to her hotel room) and then they left. For it was off to a nearby dress shop, one that the Hotel’s Concierge had suggested after Bethany had explained that it would be a dress for her assistant, not herself. Thus he had suggested a good, but not expensive business that could attend to her needs quickly.

“Madam Zill’s” Bethany read after they had left the taxi. “An unusual name, still it looks clean enough. Come Sara, I do not wish to spend too much time here as it is late and I am hungry. I am certain that you are as well.” She walked into the building with her companion following to find herself surprised. This would be a high end store in Creekside, yet glancing at a tag she realized that it was well within her limited budget. As they moved a bit deeper into the store an older meerkat appeared as though by majik.

“May I help you?” she asked in a strange, but interesting accent.

Bethany gave the woman her full attention, noting that she held her gaze easily. ‘Good’ she thought. ‘Someone I can talk too.’ She did not though see the archaic finger signs that the meerkat used behind her back. Madam Zill had met Bethany’s kind before and though the raccoon did not know what she was now the meerkat well did. “I am Miss Cartwright” she explained. “I need a single dress for my secretary” she explained. “Something simple but will stand well in the places we will go, these being art galleries, museums and such.”

“Certainly Miss Cartwright, will she be on display?” the meerkat asked.

Bethany looked at the kangaroo mouse who had drifted a few feet away and was looking at a dress on display. “For myself only” she answered in a lower voice. “In blue if possible but she will keep the dress after I am gone.”

“Then I have the style you need Lady. If you will step this way please.” She led Bethany to a back corner of the store, quickly selecting a sapphire blue dress from a rack. Though it was cut in today’s style there seemed something different about it.

“The cloth is thin” Bethany noted, gently running two fingers through the material.

“There is slip, same color but thicker” the stores owner explained. “When in public, slip and dress. In private...” She too ran a paw between the layers of cloth, her paw showing easily through the thin material. One might as well be undressed the raccoon realized.

“And the cost?” Bethany asked.

“Seven dollars, fitted within the half hour.”

“You have an excellent eye” the raccoon agreed. She turned to find Sara still looking at clothing, “Sara, here” she called in a lightly commanding voice. Almost instantly the mouse found where her employer was standing and hurried over. “You will be fitted for this dress” Bethany explained. “You will wear it all weekend so do not get it dirty. When I leave you will keep it, for when we meet again you will be wearing it.”

Sara smiled as she studied the dress, it was more expensive than anything she had ever owned. Certainly its cloth was softer than the strict school uniforms she had to wear each day. “Yes Miss Cartwright” she agreed, following the meerkat back behind a set of curtains. Bethany followed them as well, not desiring to leave Sara with people she did not know or as yet trust.

“This is Fatima, my sister” Madam Zill explained as a near duplicate meerkat came forward. “She will see that your servant is well dressed, I must return to the front.” Then the first meerkat vanished as though she had never been there.

It was, Bethany had to admit, entertaining to watch someone else being measured, poked and prodded as a rack dress was quickly and efficiently adjusted to fit her. The slip turned out to be nothing more than an open sack of cloth with two thin straps to hold it up. It took no imagination for the raccoon to see her sharpened claw cutting those near nothing straps, but the cost of repair would be too great. She was unsure what was going on but the more she was around the kangaroo mouse the more she wanted her. It made no sense, but the feelings were too wonderful to worry about.

In less than three quarters of an hour Bethany had paid for the dress and with Sara in tow was getting into a taxi. Sara was now carrying her school uniform, carefully packed into a dress box as she settled in first, Bethany last. It was something that the raccoon had seen in a war movie, the lowest ranking fur entered the vehicle first so that the highest ranking person was out first. It made perfect sense to her.

Chapter Eleven

Dinner though proved to be anti-climatic as with Sara wearing that slip absolutely noting showed. Even the dress failed to fall in a way Bethany had hoped. Worse, a full seven telegrams had been waiting her when they returned, what was in them she didn’t know as she hadn’t picked them up yet. Dinner was an important meal and sharing it with her companion was something that the raccoon had looked forward too but it proved to be less than romantic after all. Sara remained polite and differential thus people around them ignored the two young women while the food was very good. Beyond that it was as though someone had poured a bucket of water on the smoldering fire inside her. There was nothing to do but accept what was, hope for better times later and fill her stomach as she had missed lunch.

With a dismal dinner completed the two returned to the desk, picking up the room key and now nine telegrams. “Please have any further messages delivered to my room” Bethany sighed, signing for the tiny package of yellow envelopes while Sara recovered her clothing box. Placing the envelopes into Sara’s paws she turned and went to the elevators knowing that the mouse could follow her or not as she chose. After that dinner she really didn’t care, but what had happened she wondered. Their ride up the elevator did nothing to lighten the raccoon’s mood, that dress she decided simply did not hold up to its promise. Though Sara continued to give her side glances it simply looked like a young girl wearing a dress several years too old for her. ‘What a disaster’ Bethany decided.

Everything though changed when Sara returned from the bedroom. Though still wearing the dress (as the door was only locked, not blocked) she had removed the slip. It was a difference between night and day as now the dress fell as Bethany had originally hoped. All those sweet curves, those delightful valleys were in evidence. It were as though it were a completely different dress. Only then did the raccoon understand that odd question. ‘will she be on display’ and her answer ‘for myself only.’ Now everything fell into place, apparently the slip was of slightly stiffer cloth thus it caused the dress to hang stiffly. But once the slip was gone everything was as it should be. Bethany found her interest rekindling but she had better deal with this flood of telegrams first.

“Pen and pad please Sara” Bethany ordered as she settled into the comfortable chair. Like any good private secretary the mouse settled herself on the floor at her employers feet. At least, as she had seen in the movies any good Asian employee in this situation. “Father” the raccoon began. “At your request I will delay my departure until the night train. This should have myself, Miss Miller and Miss Greene in Creekside Tuesday between ten am and noon. I look forward to seeing you and mother then. Your loving daughter Bethany.”

She sat the first telegram aside, opening the next. “This is to Mr. Worton. Sir, I thank you for finding suitable lodging for Miss Greene. I am certain that Mr. And Mrs. Kaplowitz will be an excellent choice. She will be able to attend Temple with them each Saturday and as I recall their home is within walking distance of the factory. Father will settle the required fee’s with them when we arrive. Miss Cartwright.”

She worked her way through the next three telegrams, stopping at the sixth. “Sara, I wonder who Sybil Holmes is.”

“She is a Republican Miss Cartwright. A member of the Massachusetts State Senate” the mouse answered.

“I see” Bethany whispered. “How strange. Very well.” She returned to her normal voice. “This is to Miss Holmes then. “Honored.. Is that right Sara?”

“It should be ‘To the Honorable” the mouse corrected gently.

“See, I knew I hired you for a reason” Bethany laughed. “Very well, To the Honorable Miss Holmes. I appreciate your offer of a luncheon date. Unfortunately I will already be home in Creekside by the twentieth. I do hope that you understand. With all respect. Miss B. Cartwright. Do you think that will work?”

“Miss Cartwright” the mouse answered softly. “I am but a first year student. I am still learning touch typing.”

“That was not what I asked pet” the raccoon shot back in an irritated voice.

“I am sorry Miss Cartwright” the young student answered in a much more submissive voice. “Yes Mam. I think that it will do well.”

Bethany sighed, when one asked a yes or no question why did people think that you wanted fifty words about Roman History? Setting that envelope aside she continued with her messages until they were completed. “Put your slip back on then take these down and see that they are sent” she ordered. “I’ll give you the money that will be needed, just bring back the change. All coins please, then return and block that door.”

“Yes Mam” Sara answered with more enthusiasm than before.

As soon as the mouse had left Bethany called room service. “A bottle of brandy please” she ordered. “No, domestic is quite acceptable, I feel no reason to support another countries economy. Also a small pitcher of lemonade with ice if possible. Thank you.” Besides she thought after hanging up. As Mr. Worton had told her, though domestic was normally cheaper than imported there was usually very little difference that the average person could detect to justify the excessive cost of imported. Things were swirling around her, events were seemingly beyond her control. Looking out the window at Boston’s skyline the raccoon sighed. “I don’t know what is going on” she said to herself. “And I don’t know why that mouse is getting under my fur. I come here to hire a secretary and what happens? I get the hots for a breed mouse girl, I hire two other girls and now I’m getting invitations from everywhere. I’m just a simple country girl.“ She was confused and right now she really needed a drink. Maybe a personal chat with Sara would answer her questions.

Chapter Twelve

Unknown to Bethany, back at home her father was having a stirring discussion with Nancy Rote’s father, Missouri’s current Governor, along with several other important business and political people at the Rote home. “Governor, I realize that you yourself are not an Isolationist but do we really desire to open the door to interventionism” Perry James asked. The white furred wolf was well known for his opinions about America becoming entangled in foreign wars. He was dead set against them and had used his considerable newspaper system to help defeat a previous Governor’s re-election all simply because of his stance on entering the Great War. He had also been instrumental in getting the squirrel elected to the office Rote now held.

“I know your feelings Perry” the somewhat younger squirrel answered. “I also know what is going on in Europe today. You are aware that the Japanese government sent two warships through the Panama Canal correct? That these warships then visited several harbors along the East coast, ending by entering New Amsterdam Harbor and tying up at the docks for two weeks?”

“Yes, I read the reports. A Diplomatic mission, showing the colors, we do it all the time” the wolf answered, dismissing Rotes words as if unimportant.

“Yes we do. But when Perry, when have the Japanese ever done the same?”

“Why.. Um... Never” Perry James admitted. “Why?”

“Japan, or Cipangu as is the real name of their country, is 6,760 land miles from New York Perry. Direct line, not sailing line. During the Great War that was a distance too great for most warships to travel without resupply. It is my understanding that IJN TONE and her sister ship have a range of 8,000 nautical miles. That is over 9,000 land miles. I do know that they bunkered in Panama, then again in New York before traveling to Britain. It would be a simple matter for Japan to attack the west coast with their ships, without ever needing to bunker their ships.”

“Bunkering?” a hedgehog asked.

“Refueling Thomas” the wolf explained. “What the good Governor is trying to say is that Japan could attack the West Coast and return home without the need to refuel should they want. Nothing more than scare tactics.”

“Not really” Rote corrected. “Currently it appears that Japan may be attempting to Allie with us. Russia though, it is thirty-five miles from the Alaskan territories to Russian Siberia. All that is between us are the White Russians and they will be no more than a bump in the road for Starling. Red Starling is known to be a mad bird and Hitler is no throw-away either. It is less than twenty-five miles from Europe to Britain over water thus should that madman take Europe then Britain will not be far behind. A simple matter of dominoes, France, Britain, Ireland, Iceland, Greenland then Canada. That puts the United States where?”

“Hrumph. Rote that won’t happen” James countered. “England hasn’t been successfully invaded since 1066. Over eight hundred years ago.”

“I agree” the squirrel admitted. “And it probably won’t be again. Listen please James, all I am asking is that we prepare to defend ourselves. Let the Europeans bleed each other white but if for some reason Germany or Russia decide to attack us let us be able to defend ourselves with more than trucks painted to look like tanks, wooden guns and kites for airplanes.”

Perry James sat up then, setting his ever present cigar aside. “You mean give the federal government the power to enforce its will upon the states? Never.”

Rote almost considered shooting the wolf right there. A bigger idiot he hadn’t run across since Reverend Harkens who’s demands that women not be allowed out of their homes alone had caused him to throw the fox out of his office. Physically. “Would you settle for a stronger State National Guard” Rote asked.

“Strengthen the National Guard? Well then” Perry James almost drooled at that thought. He had been fighting for stronger states rights almost since he stopped suckling at his mothers breast. “That would be interesting but how strong?”

“Strong enough to stop the Federal Government from sending in troops should we disagree with their policies? ”

Someone snickered. This was an old dream of Perry James, one that appeared in some form or fashion daily in every one of his papers. Someone else had gasped but the wolf ignored them. “Yes. Yes. I would support that” he agreed.

Rote settled back in his chair satisfied. It wasn’t what he wanted, but at eighty-five Perry James wasn’t about to change his spots today. Bait him, get him to support certain legislation then dump him so hard that he splatted on impact and couldn’t respond. It was the only way and maybe he would die before it came to that though. He was in bad health and smoked those terrible cheap cigars.

“Then we have to turn away from Isolationism” Rote announced. “I can’t see one state intervening in any foreign government. Lets call it flat neutrality and build up our National Guard, replace those pre-Great War rifles and equipment with what is available today. Not a huge investment but enough to show Washington that we mean to keep our own rights. You will agree to this?”

“Put it on paper and I’ll sign it” the wolf answered. He was, the squirrel noted, almost salivating.

“I’ll have it on your desk tomorrow afternoon” Rote promised. “Now, about this new dam.”

Chapter Thirteen

Sara carefully slipped a chair under Bethany’s doorknob then began to undress. She wasn’t certain really why she was obeying the Midwestern raccoon, only that it felt good to do so. All her life she had been obeying someone, continuing to do so simply felt comfortable. It wasn’t like Miss Cartwright was a male after all so nothing that they did in private could cause her harm later. At least as long as both kept quiet about it. In nothing but her fur now she walked over to where the raccoon was sitting, holding out four more telegrams.

Bethany sighed in dismay, she had expected instructions from her father while on this trip but why all these other telegrams? “Please sit Sara, it looks like I will be replying to more people before we can talk. But I do have a personal question if you will allow.”

“Yes Miss Cartwright?” the kangaroo mouse asked.

“Why haven’t you complained about being forced to sit naked in my presence?”

“Oh. Well.” Sara blushed so hard that Bethany could follow it down to her shoulders. “I. Um.. I like it actually. Miss Cartwright.”

Bethany smiled then, after all, the view was very nice. “And I like looking at you so let us hope that I will be able to afford to obtain you next year. I really do like you Sara, not as much as I like men but you are very inventive. Now please pour yourself some lemonade, it has ice after all.” She looked at the names on each telegram, completely at a loss as too who they were from. “No brandy for me yet my sweet pet, all right then lets see what we have here.”

Bethany still had no idea why she was treating the mouse as she was but it felt good. A warm feeling deep inside her that went straight between her legs where it lay, burning heatedly. Business though must first be completed, thus she began opening each telegram, discussing its contents with Sara before forming an answer. It was late now so all replies would be sent in the morning, tonight she had a much different use for the pliant native American happily sitting naked at her feet.

Had her friends wife Alpha been present she would have known instantly what was going on, instantly and would have been quite capable of taking her to the right person that could teach the raccoon how to control what had been done to her mind by the spirits she had unwittingly encountered on her long fence rides, a change that had been made in such a manner that now it could never be undone.

Chapter Fourteen

In Creekside Governor William Rote shook paws with the last of his departing visitors, watching as an inebriated groundhog made his way to a waiting car and nearly fell into it, then vehicle and passenger vanished into the darkness. Shutting his front door he carefully locked it, turning to face the three furs still sitting at his dining table. “To the den gentlemen and tonight’s real work” he announced.

As the four walked to Rotes sanctum his young wife came up to give him a hug. “Do not stay up too late darling dear” the mink warned. “You may be the Governor of Missouri but you know how I miss you.”

“A few hours only Georgia. My word this time, only a few hours.” He watched wistfully as his second wife made her way to the stairs, her fluffed tail drawing his eyes like a magnet. He knew that she wanted another child and as soon as possible while her body was still young and strong enough to survive any difficulties. ‘If Nancy never does anything for me ever again’ he thought. ‘Finding Georgia for me will be enough.’ With regrets he turned towards his den to find his three most trusted advisors waiting, one of those being Bethany Cartwright’s own father.

Even later that night all but the squirrel William Rote and his friend the raccoon Cartwright remained. They were waiting for Cartwrights driver to pull up so that he could return home to his own waiting bed. “Your certain Bill” the squirrel asked. His tone was serious, for the subject was serious. Deadly serious.

“Eight, nine months Will” the raccoon answered. “Lung cancer, I’ve known for some time now, that’s really why I’m pushing Bethany so hard. There’s no one else and please don’t mention my wife, I married her because I loved her not because she had a steady head on her shoulders. I give her control of the company and she’ll be on the street in less than a year but she’s fun to be around Will. Awful fun.” He looked into the darkness. “Cancer’s a mean creature Will. Once it grabs hold of you there isn’t any chance of survival, I’ve known for near two years now that’s why I fought so hard for you to become Governor. States gonna need someone like you.”

He puffed his cigar, still looking out at nothing. “Your daughter straightened out my Bethany Will. Girl was going the way of her mother, all prim and proper on the outside, a roaring tiger within yet not a working brain cell in her head other than those involved with high society. Who had the better clothing, better connections, most money. Your Nancy, she turned my Bethany away from all that, showed her a different world.” He puffed again and coughed. “Sure she ended up having to make that little vacation, just like the girl I seeded and she came back stronger for it. Will, she should replace me, I mean in your inner circle.”

William Rote moved to stand beside his childhood friend. “No one would listen to any woman’s ideas Bill. Not in this day and age” he explained. “I don’t doubt that your daughter is intelligent but people will look at her, look at the rumors. Look at my Nancy as an example then they will discard her words even if she announced that breathing was good for you. Remember how hard Nancy fought to get the Chief to listen to her. Even then it was only because of me, my position. Only that got her through the door.”

“Agreed and her money will get my Beth through any door. Just remember, you will need someone at your back that you can always trust. Bethany can be that person and soon you will be listening to her. I have reports from her Aunts that she matured a great deal after those weeks of riding the fence line. Mainly alone. I think that something happened, I don’t know what but I can tell you holding eye contact with her requires a strong will now. She has changed Will, she is mature now.”

He took a deep breath of the cool evening air then coughed again. “Look Will its not like I’m asking you to play hide the salami with my daughter. Anyway, looking at her letters of late I think she’s had enough of that. She’s your daughters most trusted friend here in Creekside. Heck, probably the entire country. One day that Sherlock Hound of yours is going to need serious financial backup and Bethany will always be there for her so don’t let her go to waste. Just give her one chance after I’m gone, that is all I am asking.”

“I will” the squirrel promised. “Bring her around when she gets back and we will set up a private meeting, see how things go. But she’s not you, I didn’t grow up with her. I just can’t trust her like I trust you.”

Laughing as he stepped down for his car the raccoon turned to look at his old friend. “Of course we could yank out her brain and put mine into her body but I think she would be rather upset about that. Until later Will.” Stepping into his car he was soon off, leaving the squirrel standing on his porch alone. Thinking.

Chapter Fifteen

Days later Bethany looked out the trains sleeper car window as utility poles passed by at a regular, rapid pace. She was going home, but something about her fathers last wire bothered her. ‘Important I see you first.’ Just those five words, she wondered what they could mean. Below her the newly hired secretaries Ruth and Ginger shared the same bunk. She could hear their soft breathing, smell their combined scents. Not for the first time she wondered at the reasons she had chosen the ocelot over the mink.

There were changes going on the raccoon had come to realize. Her father was pushing more and more responsibility upon her. This trip for example, last year it would have never happened. Was it because she had matured during those long months on her Aunts ranch? Did he feel that, having birthed a son, one that she could never acknowledge yet was obligated to support had changed her? Or could it have been those long nights she had spent alone. Alone because she would not turn away from her friend Nancy Rote. So she had, as Nancy, lost most of those she had thought friends. Whatever it was the young woman decided that she would prove her father right. She would become the strong daughter that he needed.