Page 11 of Colorado Bride

Sally looked over at Emily’s wrap draped over the end of the sofa.

“Which you already have.”

She checked that off the list.

“Sturdy work boots, which you also have if I’m not mistaken.”

She touched the toe of her shoe to Emily’s boot and checked that off the list, too.

“Three skirts,”

Sally looked up from the list.

“Bombazine works well.I’d suggest one each, black, brown and dark blue.The material is very sturdy.Three shirtwaists to go with the skirts and undergarments appropriate for the wardrobe.After hearing that list you can see why I think he got it from…I would guess Maggie or a sister, since his mother is…difficult.”

Emily laughed.“Difficult is it?Oh well, I have corsets, chemises and bloomers that are still quite functional.As to the rest, where are we to find that on such short notice?I’m not exactly the perfect size for ready-to-wear clothes.”

“Don’t be ridiculous.Not by a long shot are you the largest woman we have placed or that Madame Maxine has outfitted on short notice.”

Emily grinned.

“Really?Well, let’s get started.What do I do first?”

“First, I put a closed sign on the door and then we go to see Madame Maxine.

Emily looked at Madame Maxine who was very short and thin with black hair that was probably from a bottle and green eyes that seemed greener with the help of her cosmetics.

“Sally Wyatt.”

Madame came forward and gave Sally a kiss on each cheek.

“So good to see you.I see you have brought Madame another client.What is needed and what is my time frame?”

Sally read off the list from Mr.Logan.

“I have skirts and blouses that will work already made.I will need to adjust them, as I always do, though,” she looked Emily up and down.“Not as much as I usually do.I make all my clothes with large seams for adjusting for my ladies.”

Madame stood back with one hand on her hip and the other with a finger on her chin.She studied Emily.

“Now.With that fabulous golden hair and light brown eyes you have, we need to play them up.I have three dresses in mind for you.One is pink, one lavender, and the last one is royal blue.They are in heavy cotton and can be worn in any season.The wool dresses are harder.I have a purple one that is ready but the other one we would have to make.”

She turned to Sally.

“Tell me how long we have.”

“Until Friday, the 3rd.I want her on the train as soon as possible.”

“Mais oui, that is not much time, but Madame will do it.Don’t I always for my favorite customer?”

“But Sally,” said Emily.“The list said only four dresses.Two cotton and two wool.”

“Don’t worry; you’ll need the fifth dress.He also said you need one for Sunday’s and dances.Besides, I know Maggie and she always expects to dress the ladies for one week of changes.She says it’s the least the gentlemen can do for their new brides.”

Sally turned to the seamstress.

“Thank you, Madame.I know I can always count on you.”

“But, of course,” replied the seamstress.