We’ve been incredibly busy preparing to leave town. This is the first day I’ve had a chance to write. BV has given us reason to move a little faster.
Speaking of, whilst herding a group of the cattle back towards the ranch today with Father Sinclair, Mr. Silence, and Mr. Atticus- I STILL have been unable to catch his last name. It is to the point I should just ask him again.- We heard a calf crying out from one of the thorn thickets.
The Father and I went to investigate and free the poor beast when we were attacked by terrorantulas, two adults(mates?) and a swarm of young ones. They had already eaten a cow-calf pair, along with the mother of the calf we had heard crying. The four of us were able to kill them, though the father and Mr. Silence showed off some concerning abilities.
I worry my earlier thoughts may be correct.
The father was able to heal the calf enough to prevent it from dying, using a trick similar to what I had seen abuelito do a few times back in the city. While he was doing that, the rest of us found proof that the spiders were either baited or placed here, as fine silks were found shredded by the thorns.
We gathered the calf and a corpse of the larger spiders and returned to the farm. Mr. Canton requested we speak about the planting of the beasts to Mr. Sutter while we handed the calf over to him.
Poor Miss Morton was in the office and we frightened her half to death with the thing. She did not leave, however. I believe Mr. Silence’s charms may be universal.
We’re going to attempt to leave faster than planned. Mr. Sutter has requested we add antidotes to his list to pick up from town tomorrow.
Outside the building, while discussing the best method to dispose of the beast, Isadora insisted on inspecting it. She’s been so upset with the atmosphere I didn’t have the heart to prevent her this small joy despite the danger even a dead one might hold. Father Sinclair instead bribed it off of her.
I took her to work on her schooling, and was not privy to the rest of the discussion of disposal methods. Apparently they chose the outhouse, judging from the scream I just heard.
If no one else, Maverick has been enjoying herself.