The Cogan Legend Read Free Page B

allowing Rachel time to calm down.  After what seemed like an endless amount of time, Charles began describing the journey that lay ahead.  “We will travel farther and farther into the countryside, and we’ll see beautiful mountains and small towns.”
    Charles knew that Ann was familiar with traveling, but he didn‘t know what Rachel’s experience was.   In an effort to get Rachel’s thoughts away from home, Charles inquired, “Rachel, have you done any traveling?”
    â€œThe only traveling I’ve done was in Philadelphia,” Rachel admitted sheepishly.
    Ann decided this was the perfect time to ask her father about Mary Lentz.
    â€œYou’ve talked about the housekeeper, but I’ve never met her.  Is she still there?”
    â€œWhy, yes.  Her name is Mary Lentz.”  Charles’ eyes seemed to drift away as if he were looking at the woman he was describing.  “She’s an excellent cook.”
    â€œIs she pretty?” Ann asked, hoping to see her father’s reaction.
    â€œUh, well, yes, I…” Charles blinked.  “You’ll just have to judge for yourself.”   A flush of red had crept up his neck and was threatening his cheeks.
    Ann and Rachel looked at each other.
    Ann wisely changed the subject.
    â€œSo, Father, tell us about the lodge.”  Ann suggested.
    â€œYes, of course.”  Charles silently thanked his daughter for rescuing him.  “I came to the area 18 or 19 years ago on a hunting trip with a friend and just fell in love with the mountains.  I decided soon after that I wanted a hunting lodge there and on a return trip purchased the land where the lodge now sits.  Then I went back to Philadelphia and hired a draftsman, a good friend, who drew up the plans for the lodge.  I spent two months at the site during which time construction was well underway.  When I left, I had all the confidence that the builders would complete the work as I had specified.  When I returned to Philadelphia, your mother gave me the most wonderful news; she was pregnant, and here you are asking me how it all came about.”
    â€œAnd Mrs. Lentz?” Rachel asked before thinking.
    After a few moments of silence Charles began, “I met Mary at the tavern where I was staying and she was working.”  Leaning back in the seat he continued, “As I got to know her, I realized how knowledgeable she was about the local craftsmen.  After a couple of trips back to the lodge, I realized I needed someone who could take care of it in my absence.  I asked if she knew anyone, and Mary said she would enjoy the challenge.  I already knew she could cook, so I hired her on the spot.  She’s been marvelous.”
    â€œFather, you continue to speak of only Mrs. Lentz. Is there a Mr. Lentz?”
    â€œI learned that she became a widow early in her marriage when her husband met with a tragic hunting accident. I still know nothing about the details.”
    At midday they entered Valley Forge and pulled the team to an inn with a hand-lettered sign that showed little imagination: Valley Forge Inn.  The girls’ stomachs had just begun to feel pinched as Lewey pulled up the team.  After the girls and Charles left the coach, Lewey pulled the team around to the back of the inn to feed and water the horses.  
    Most of the shop keepers gathered at the Valley Forge Inn for lunch.  The front of the inn was nothing fancy; there was no trim and it was plain green, a color all too often seen.  The main entrance went directly into a large dining hall, which was filled with patrons.  To the right of the dining area was the saloon where the single men gathered.  The inn did its best business during the day, and today was no exception.  
    As they entered the dining hall, many eyes followed the girls, and the Inn went silent until they were seated.  Charles knew his