Mr. Cooke sounded pleased with the choice, but less pleased with Congress’s demands that building on the Northern Pacific take place from both ends of the system at the same time. The Territory of Washington, with its mountains and such, would be easier to manage than Minnesota with its tens of thousands of lakes and swampland. According to the reports, there was even quicksand to contend with, as well as what was being called “Minnesota black muck.” It made conditions such that you could neither swim nor boat it, nor walk atop it. It was simply impassable, and someone desperately needed to figure out what could be done.

The stagnant water also made for mosquito breeding habitats. Workers had learned from the native Indians that the only thing to use to combat the onslaught was bear grease, but the smell was so putrid that many refused it until desperation set in and they could no longer take the constant attack of biting flies and mosquitoes. Luke could understand the dilemma, although he’d come when colder weather had already set in. He had no idea what summer would bring.

Luke continued reading through the packet, learning of Mr. Cooke’s frustrations with Congress and their lack of interest in the northern line. The transcontinental railroad had just been completed, and that was surely enough to connect the nation for business and pleasure. They were shortsighted, Mr. Cooke told Luke. And because of their frustrating attitude, Mr. Cooke believed his best bet was to be very public with his railroad venture. With that in mind, he was going to send a large party of newspaper reporters, dignitaries, and other railroad enthusiasts to participate in a groundbreaking ceremony for the Minnesota side of the Northern Pacific. It would take place in February, and Mr. Cooke promised more news to come. He instructed Luke to do what he could to ensure rooms at Clark House Hotel, even though it was still being built. In fact, he pressed the importance of seeing that hotel complete, even if Luke had to personally hire more men for the job.

It would seem the entire world had erupted at once, and Jay Cooke was in charge of putting it back together. Luke would be very busy for the next few weeks.

“He’s perfect,” JT said, hugging the puppy close. The sable-and-brown dog licked JT’s face over and over, making the boy giggle. “I think he likes me.”

“It certainly looks that way,” Luke said, laughing.

Gloriana shook her head. “I hope you get him quickly trained to do his business outside,” she said, cleaning up the puppy’s latest mistake.

“It won’t take all that long, and once he’s trained and a bit bigger,” Luke declared, “you’ll be glad to have him standing guard over you.”

“Do you think he’ll be a good guard dog?” JT asked.

“The best.” Luke rubbed the dog’s nose. “See this blaze of white on his nose and forehead?”

JT nodded.