Page 7 of Colorado Bride

“Sally has already interviewed all the potential brides.She has notes in the files for every woman, and her perceptions are very good.”

Maggie lifted an eyebrow.

“Almost as good as mine.”

Then she smiled.

“Don’t worry Ben.We’ll find the perfect bride for you.”

Relief flooded him and Ben stood.

Maggie walked back to her desk.

Ben followed.

“I need the expense money to get this started.That is fifty dollars, for her clothing, another fifty for her travel here on the train.If there are any additional costs I’ll send you the bill.I need your signature on this contract which states that you are hiring Matchmaker & Co to find you a bride and will pay any and all costs associated with that transaction, and the matchmaker fee of seventy-five dollars.While you do that, I’ll get you a receipt for the one hundred dollars.”

Ben handed her the cash from the money clip he carried.Good thing he went to the bank before coming here.

“Is that all you need from me?”

“Yes.For now.That and a willingness to trust that we’ll get you the right bride.When she arrives, I usually tell them they have up to two months to get to know the potential groom before marrying.Most of my girls don’t wait even a week.They have traveled west to get married and that’s just what they intend to do as soon as possible.I just want you to be aware that the woman does have the option to wait the two months.If she refuses the match, you are no longer obligated for anything financially.If you refuse the match you are still liable for all of her expenses.”

“Thanks.I’ll keep that in mind.”

“When I have a girl on her way, I’ll get in touch with you and give you her background and when she is arriving.My suggestion is that you get two rooms in a nice hotel in Denver and be prepared to see the judge within the week.You can always cancel the judge if need be.”

“I’ll do that.Judge Hank Sloan is a friend of mine.I’ll contact him.”

“Good.Now it’s just a matter of waiting.”

“I’ve waited this long.I think I can handle a little more time.Thanks, Maggie.See you soon.”

“Goodbye, Ben.”

He left and his heart felt lighter than when he’d come.Soon he’d have a wife.