Making a New Family

This thread follows the imperfect formation of a family around Kidd and Cicada, from the return that fails to the household that eventually holds them.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Family Kidd Left Behind

The Family Kidd Left Behind Daughters in Georgia Kidd writes to Olympia and Elizabeth about their lives, their husbands, and the possibility of moving back to Texas. His letter shows a father still trying to organize family security after war. Distance and worry He knows that travel is dangerous and money scarce. Caring for Cicada therefore joins an older concern: how to keep the people he loves from being lost to distance and circumstance.

A Temporary Household

A Temporary Household Mrs. Gannet’s help Mrs. Gannet agrees to stay with Cicada while Kidd prepares a reading, then comforts her with homemade divinity. Her calm presence offers a temporary model of patient adult care. Kindness cannot settle the future Cicada accepts small comforts without being ready to trust the larger plan. The brief arrangement helps the travelers continue, but it cannot replace a stable family.

The Failed Placement

The Failed Placement A household reluctant to adopt Wilhelm and Anna receive Cicada but expect her to work and conform, while a public gathering celebrates her return. Their private response fails to meet the hopes the community places on them. An adult’s responsibility Kidd initially leaves, then returns after seeing Cicada’s situation. The episode shows that family formation requires care and commitment, not merely genealogy or a ceremonial welcome.

The San Antonio Household

The San Antonio Household Relatives come home Kidd’s daughters and their family return to San Antonio and occupy the Betancort house. Cicada joins a household that now includes both his descendants and the child he has chosen to protect. A complicated belonging She tries to fit into the family’s social customs, though Kidd sees how much effort that requires. The household offers continuity without making cultural difference disappear.

Family Beyond Childhood

Family Beyond Childhood A life established Cicada marries John Calley and raises children while traveling through cattle country. Her relationship with Kidd changes as she becomes an adult with a household of her own. A durable bond She remains close enough to promise visits and carry Kidd’s watch. Their family tie endures without requiring her to remain dependent or to abandon the life she has chosen.

Winter 1870, during the Dallas letter

March 1870, in Dallas

Early April 1870, at D’Hanis

Three years after Kidd retrieves Cicada

Several years later, after Cicada’s marriage