If it's a draw between a baby and Henry, I'll kick his ornery butt all the way to the fancy house in Jacksboro and tell him to stay there this time.Appalled and uncertain how to react, Loretta said, Fancy house?You don't think he goes there to get tobacco and coffee and the for us, do you? Rachel touched Loretta's shoulder. Don't look so woebegone. He leaves me alone for nigh on a month after. I consider it a blessing.Loretta threw back her head and gave a weak laugh. Uncle Henry visiting a fancy house? Oh, Aunt Rachel, I bet those ladies double their rates when they see the likes of him coming!No doubt, Rachel said grimly.
In "Comanche Moon" by Catherine Anderson, there is a humorous yet poignant interaction between Loretta and Rachel concerning Uncle Henry's questionable behavior. Loretta is shocked by Rachel's suggestion that he visits a fancy house, implying it's for something more than just legitimate errands. Rachel seems to have resigned herself to the situation, even calling the peace that follows Uncle Henry's visits a blessing, which prompts Loretta to laugh ironically at the idea of him mingling with prominent ladies.
This moment illustrates the complexity of their lives and the character of Uncle Henry. While Loretta cannot fathom him in such a setting, Rachel accepts the reality of his behavior with a sense of dark humor. Their exchange reflects an underlying camaraderie and the harshness of their experiences, highlighting how they cope with their difficult circumstances through shared understanding and laughter.
