Nice idea and well written. Good job.

I loved this the first time I read it, over at the Ranch; I cherish it now, more heartbreakingly beautiful than ever. It did not surprise me that Buck would be the last rider left, somehow - I don't know why, though. ML

Beautiful writen

Another beautiful story from you, Pilarcita. It was so sad seeing Buck say goodbye to all his Express family (the bit with Kid and Lou was particularly touching), especially as he was the last one left, even outliving his wife. But he wasn't alone at the end, as he had his children and grandchildren around him. And what a lovely ending. The poem was a perfect touch.

It would be easy to read this and see all of the losses, but instead I am seeing what a blest life he had with so many people he loved and who loved him. It may sound absurd, but this is a beautiful death!