True Grit

Chapter 11

After a brief passage of time, the silhouette of Mattie emerged into our view, visibly struggling beneath the weight of a saddle slung over her shoulder. Undeterred, she pressed on with a resolute determination, closing in on our position. Recognizing the opportune moment, we guided Little Blackie nearer, understanding that her persistence would aid in hoisting the saddle onto the sturdy back of the horse. "I am coming with you," Mattie declared with an unwavering resolve that shone in her eyes. LeBoeuf focused on cinching a saddle onto his woolly horse and paused briefly to survey the surroundings before responding thoughtfully. "Regrettably, that is not feasible," LeBoeuf replied with a hint of regret in his voice. Drawing strength from her unyielding spirit, Mattie shot back, "Have I ever held you back? I am skilled with Colt's dragoon revolver, and I assure you, I shall be no more a burden to you than I proved to be to the marshal." Her earnestness was evident, and she stood her ground, unyielding in her pursuit. Undeterred by LeBoeuf's initial response, Mattie continued to pose questions, refusing to back down in her desire to be a part of the journey. She understood the risks involved and was ready to face them head-on, eager to prove her worth and dedication. As the tension in the air grew, it became clear that Mattie's determination was a force to be reckoned with, and her presence would undoubtedly make a significant impact on the journey ahead. 

LeBoeuf's assurance to Cogburn was unwavering, brushing aside any concern about his companion's demeanor. "You've earned your spurs, there's no doubt about that. You've been a seasoned 'old hand' on this trail. However, Cogburn is right, even though I won't give him the satisfaction of admitting it. The trail has gone cold, and I am considerably disheartened," he explained, his voice tinged with a hint of disappointment. Mattie, with a mix of concern and frustration, couldn't understand LeBoeuf's sudden resolve to give up after months of relentless pursuit to find Chaney. "How can you abandon the search now, after dedicating so much time to finding Chaney? Your determination has been remarkable. I misjudged you; I chose the wrong man," she admitted, her voice filled with regret. LeBoeuf acknowledged Mattie's plea, genuinely considering her proposition. "I would continue with you if there were a clear path ahead, but unfortunately, we would be venturing blindly. Chelmsford has vanished, and we have chased him right off the map. There's no alternative; I must head for Texas, and it's time for you to return home," he suggested, mounting his horse gracefully. Determined not to give up, Mattie stood her ground firmly. "I will not go back, not without Chaney, dead or alive," she declared with unwavering resolve, refusing to back down. LeBoeuf, humbled by Mattie's tenacity, extended his hand as a gesture of reconciliation. "I misjudged you as well. I extend my hand," he admitted, offering his gloved hand in rough suede. Hesitating for a moment, Mattie observed the unwavering determination in LeBoeuf's posture. Despite her initial uncertainty, she reached up and firmly grasped his hand, shaking it with determination, sealing an unspoken bond between them. "Adios!" LeBoeuf called out as he turned his horse around and set it to a lively prancing walk, the jingle of his spurs fading away into the distance. The only sound left in the air was Rooster's rhythmic snoring emanating from the crackling campfire, as Mattie stood there, resolute in her decision to continue the pursuit of justice. 

Around the crackling campfire, the night air is filled with the unmistakable sound of Rooster's snoring, his deep snores snorting intermittently. Mattie steps into the circle of flickering light cast by the flames, her gaze drawn downward to the slumbering lawman. She watches him for a moment, a mixture of emotions playing across her face, before finally settling down on her robe near the fire. After a brief moment of contemplation, Mattie rises again and moves towards the horses, where Little Blackie stands, emitting soft breaths into the cool night. With a sense of purpose, she returns to her spot by the campfire, now carrying a coiled rope in her hands. Swiftly and deftly, she loops the rope around her robe, securing it with care. The rope becomes a symbolic tether, connecting her to her mission and the challenges ahead. Having completed her task, Mattie takes a deep breath and closes her eyes, seeking rest amidst the wilderness and the sounds of the night. The firelight dances on her serene face as she finds comfort in the stillness of the moment. The night sky above is vast and teeming with stars, a reminder of the great unknown that awaits her on her quest for justice. Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding their pursuit, a sense of determination shines in her expression. Under the celestial expanse, Mattie's presence may seem small yet resolute, a testament to her unwavering commitment to her mission. She knows the path ahead is arduous, but she remains undeterred. With the campfire's crackling melody and Rooster's snoring as the nighttime symphony, Mattie finds solace in the camaraderie of her companions, even amidst the trials they face. She is prepared for the new day, ready to face whatever lies ahead when the morning sun breaks the horizon. The coiled rope, a symbol of her readiness and preparedness, lies close at hand, an unspoken reminder of the tasks that await her in the days to come. It also serves as a reminder that the challenges they face require unity and trust among the group, symbolizing the bond they have formed on this journey. As the night deepens, the campfire continues to flicker and illuminate the scene, casting shadows that dance around Mattie's resolute figure. In the quietude of the wilderness, the echoes of their pursuit reverberate. Mattie's determination, like the dancing flames before her, remains steadfast, ready to brave the unknown and confront the obstacles that lie ahead in her relentless pursuit of justice.