[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 8-22-07

 

Tom Landers had something on his mind, and so did I.
"You fixin' to live here?" he asked, eyeing the chest I'd just packed over from the hotel.
"Not permanent," I said.
"Anythin' to do with that fine lookin' fella that just got off the train?"
"Yep."
Tom weighed the brevity of my reply. "He's trouble, y'know."
"The Pope is Catholic, tell me something I don't know."
"See the fellow with him?"
"Saw him." I opened the trunk, pulled out a blue Stetson and punched the creases out of the crown. The gold cord was frayed and one acorn was frayed, the hat itself spoke of long wear, but it held memories and I am a sentimental man.
"Cavalry," Tom observed.
"Yep."
"What else you got in there?"
I laughed. "Well, I don't have a kitchen sink, if that's what you're asking."
"You going to sleep back in the cells?"
"Nope. Higgins snores."
"So do you."
I looked at him in genuine surprise.
He chuckled. "Daisy said when you snore the windows rattle."
"Remind me to caulk the windows." My exploring hand felt something unexpected, and I withdrew my issue sabre and belt from the trunk.
"You're just full of surprises, you know that?"
"Most folks tell me I'm full of second hand horse feed."
Tom laughed, a genuine, relaxed laugh, one I'd heard more often since he pinned his star on my vest. "I won't comment on that one!"
"Wise man," I deadpanned. "You know why that's wise."
"Why's that?"
"Well, in my case, I have a medical condition."
"Oh?" He folded his arms, eyes smiling in expectation. He knew I was pulling his leg and waited for the punch line.
"Yep. I suffer hoof in mouth disease and it hits me at the unhandiest times!" I hung the sabre belt from a handy peg, the hat from the same peg, and closed the trunk. That was enough memories for one afternoon.
"What are you going to do about that fine looking fellow that Miz Duzy would like to slap?"
I turned, an old and familiar tightening in my guts and my legs.
"I'm going to watch him, and I'm going to watch that quiet fellow that came in with him. Was I on my own ..." I looked away, seeing another time. "My bones tell me he means trouble for Duzy, and that means trouble for Bonnie, and even more for Esther."
"Is that going to cloud your judgement?"
I smiled, and the smile was not pleasant.
"No, Tom. My judgement will be very clear."
Tom was quiet for several minutes. I set up a folding cot, against the wall, with the head in the corner and the foot toward the front wall, with good view of the door and the barred window. If need be I could roll out of the cot and be behind the cast iron stove.
"You didn't move out of the hotel 'cause that fellow moved in, by any chance?"
There was the sound of boots on the boardwalk outside, a brisk knock on the door. A stocky cavalry trooper stepped inside, looked from Tom to myself.
"Sheriff?" he asked, and hesitated, then came to attention and snapped a salute.
I returned his salute. "At ease, Mick, how in the hell are you?"
"Colonel!" he exclaimed, a broad grin splitting his red Irish face.
Tom shook his head. "Does he know everybody in the territory?"

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Lady Leigh 8-22-07

 

" Duzy? Sweetheart ... this is NOT good! You realize that, do you not? This is not good! That man gives me the creeps!" Bonnie had seen men like him ... more men than she would like to admit. He was trouble.

Bonnie continued, "Reverand ..."

Rev. Sopris put hs hand behind, both Bonnie and Duzy's elbows. He looked totally calm, but there was something in his eyes ... maybe ...

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Duzy Wales 8-22-07

 

Luke stepped off the train, and Duzy heard some of the women gasp, as he was an extremely handsome man, dressed equally as well, and held himself like someone who had always gotten everything he wanted or wished for. Duzy automatically reached for Bonnie’s hand, as she knew it would be inappropriate to reach for the Reverend’s hand, although he was standing closely behind the ladies.

Then, another man stepped off, dressed entirely in black, more rugged, and yet just as handsome, although it seemed he didn’t want to be noticed, stepping off quickly and moving to get his luggage. Could this be the man her Papa had sent? In comparison, the two couldn’t have been more different, as Luke was enjoying every look he received from the ladies in attendance, and yet so diffident to the men, as if they made no difference at all to him!

Aunt Esther noticed the man in black and instantly knew who he was! She had met Jake Thomas before and knew exactly who he was. However, her brother, Lee, had not told Duzy who or what he was, and she decided to let the game play out, knowing that this was the man that was there to look after Duzy’s interest and who had been sent to watch Luke. She knew Lee well enough to know that he had his reasons for keeping quiet, and for the other mans identity to be guarded, and didn’t want to blow his cover. She would watch and listen and wait for further word from her brother on what he knew about Luke Hawkins; and yet she knew Duzy would not be in any danger with Jake Thomas there. She would rest a lot easier tonight with that information.

Finally, Luke saw Duzy and giving her his most charming smile, he walked up, bowed, and took her hand in his, holding and kissing it, and telling her how beautiful she looked and how he had to come to see how she was faring. It was as if he was staking his claim on her, in front of everyone assembled, while both Aunt Esther and Duzy knew that was not the case at all. The gesture didn’t go unnoticed by Tom Landers, and he couldn’t describe how he felt at that moment.

Duzy, not one to ever mince words, pulled her hand away and said, “What are you doing here, Luke?” “To see you, darlin’, why else?” he asked, why would I have any other reason to be here?” He looked at Duzy, noticing the lines around her eyes, and inwardly laughed that this was going to be much easier than he had thought, as it was obvious that life here had already taken its toll on her! Her skin was not as creamy white, her hands felt clammy and cold, and from the looks of Firelands, he could see why no real lady should ever be here! She was in the wilderness, for God’s sake, and he knew Duzy was used to the finer things of life.

Jake, having picked up his luggage, stood back from the crowd watching, and couldn’t believe that this was the young lady in the photograph he had seen in her Papa’s home. She had grown up to be a beautiful woman, and was a sight to behold! He felt a protective streak go through him like he had never felt before and wished he could literally deck Hawkins for the farce he was playing. He continued to watch, as he asked about a hotel, and was directed to either Sam’s Place or what had been Mr. Higgins’ hotel. He waited to see where Luke decided to go, silently watching every move the man made.

Duzy thought she felt the Reverend stiffen at the sight of Luke, but knew it had to be her imagination, as they weren’t even touching. Perhaps it had been an intake of breath or one of her “feelings,” but she could feel an instant dislike toward him. Just at that time, Luke noticed Reverend Kid standing behind Duzy, and gave him a sharp look, wondering who this man was and why he was there. Could he have given her the rose she was holding in her other hand? He would make it his business to find out, and if he found that Duzy had become interested in anyone who had made her a sullied woman, he would find a way to kill them both…..but he would wait until he had managed to marry her, as he was planning to get the property that adjoined his, even if he had to find another woman to give him an heir…..although he would make her wish she was dead before she drew her last breath. He actually found pleasure in the thought, although no one could tell by the charming look of adoration he was giving her at the moment. He also had to wait until he found Bonnie McKenna, as he had been sent to do business with her as well.

“You may as well get back on the train, Luke, as I have plans here, with a new family, and I intend to stay, you had no right to come here!” Duzy said, looking him directly in his eyes. Luke ignored her statement, as usual, and said, “My dear Duzy, I will see you tomorrow, but for now I need some rest. I am sure you will come to your senses and return with me after we have had a chance to talk.” With that, he turned and walked away, asking about a place to stay. Duzy, among others, noticed he decided on Sam’s Place instead of going to the hotel, which spoke volumes to many who were watching, including Duzy. And then, Duzy noticed the man in black going toward Sam's Place as well, which made her wonder even more who he was.

As Luke walked away, Duzy felt herself sway, and didn't realize what seeing Luke had did to her composure, until she felt Reverend Kid take her arm to steady her. Feeling embarrassed, Duzy thanked him, pulled herself together, and asked, "anyone feel like some coffee, with ground vanilla, or perhaps a candy stick for you, Sarah?"

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Duzy Wales 8-22-07

 

After the release of tears, Duzy felt much better. She stood and looked around the building, imagining how it would come to life when the “shipment” arrived. The advertisement had been of a fancy gambling hall that was being sold, however the building was being sold separately from the fixtures and other contents. Soon, there would be a shipment of red velvet curtains, a stage, gambling tables, a long mahogany bar with a mirror running the length of the bar, two pianos, one which could play by itself and another for a talented pianist, tables and chairs for drinking, copper spittoons, artwork, glassware, a large stock of wines and liquors, the beds and other furniture that would be needed and many more amenities that would make the “Silver Jewel” just as nice, or nicer, than the pictures Duzy had shown Mr. Landers of the Crystal Palace in Tombstone, just that morning. She also planned to sell hot coffee with the choice of ground vanilla, hot or iced, and some of Aunt Esther’s scones if anyone desired to visit, but who did not drink alcohol nor gamble. She hoped it to be a place that would bring culture to Firelands, someday adding a theater for opera and other forms of entertainment, with the adjoining property that Mr. Higgins had sold.

A second story would be added to the newspaper office for the housing of the guests who would entertain, for Mr. Landers, the barkeeper, the ladies who worked the tables, and extra rooms for others as it grew and a special room in the back for Duzy to have as her own, one that would be apart from the others, as she intended to use it to do her other work, work that few would know about, as she would need a place to do her writing. The front of the building would be changed, as the second story was added, to make it look more elegant.

She thought of the train and what her Papa had told her. Not wanting to look harried, she hurriedly walked home, not taking time to bathe, but refreshed herself, and changed into a garnet red silk day dress. She added a touch of jasmine on her pulse points and asked Aunt Esther to redo her hair, and then added a pretty hat, with a jaunty angle, hoping it would give her confidence when she saw Luke again, she explained to Aunt Esther, with her Aunt raising an eyebrow at that remark! “Since when did you care what that young man thought, Duzy?” “I do not know! I just feel like whoever is on that train is going to impact my life in some way…..I have been feeling it for days!” Aunt Esther couldn’t deny that, as she had been having some of the same “feelings,” and all were not good. Duzy took one more look at herself, and could still see the stress around her eyes, but decided it was the best she could do for now. After Duzy left, Aunt Esther called for Tilly. “Tilly I think we need to go to town as I wish to see for myself who is on that train! Tilly was excited to go, as anytime the train came in, everyone was excited to see if there was a newcomer to Firelands.

As Duzy reached town, she noticed Bonnie exiting Mr. Moulton's office, reaching for Sarah, and patting Dawg on the head. They greeted each other, knowing that they both had things they needed to tell each other, and it felt wonderful to have a friend to confide in. She told Bonnie about the telegram, who Luke was and that he may be on the train.

Duzy suddenly had a feeling of impending evil and then a need to visit the church, which surprised her, as she had never felt that need before, having always believed in karma and never needing a “middleman” or “building” to talk to God, as she felt God in all of nature. “Why,” she wondered? Could it be the wisdom of this particular Reverend for which she felt the need? “You are being silly, Duzy,” she told herself, but the feeling did not go away. She could hear the train getting closer and as it did, she could feel that pounding in her heart and her head, and a cold chill ran down her spine.

Duzy turned to Bonnie and asked, "would you wait just a moment before going to the train, as I feel the need to pick a rose from the church yard," with Duzy hoping it would help to calm her nerves. Bonnie looked a little surprised, but being a private person herself, she assured Duzy that she would wait.

Just as Duzy bent to pick the rose, she heard Reverend Sopris say, “How are you, Miss Duzy?” She turned and looked into his blue eyes and saw comfort and understanding, as if he could look into her eyes and see the panic in her soul.

And then he said, "would you like for me to escort you, Bonnie and Sarah to the train?" "Would you please?" Duzy asked, smiling gratefully at the Reverend.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Lady Leigh 8-22-07

 

Bonnie and Sarah bid the good Reverand thank you and good day and walked back toward home. As usual, Dawg was lumbering right along with them, much to Sarah's delight.

Talking to Rev. Sopris brought a smile to Bonnie's face. She remembered something her Father said once, " Lassie! Just because you are a child of God, doesna mean the answers are right afore ya. Sometimes He makes ya work a wee bit on yer own." The words of Rev. Sopris rang in her head, with the sure thought that though he did not necessarily tell Bonnie exactly what to do, he did give her the words of advise that enabled her to excerise her own God given abilities. "You're a big girl now, Bonnie," she thought to herself, "It's time to start using the brain God gave you."

She and Sarah were getting ready to pass by the Attourneys office, when she stopped short. "I need to make a short visit here, Sarah, before we continue on. Dawg? Keep an eye on Sarah for a moment. Sarah, why don't you sit on this bench. I'll just be a bit."

With that, Bonnie opened the door and partitailly stepped inside, "Mr. Moulton?"

"Miss McKenna! Please, please come in!"

"If you don't mind, I have Sarah right here with me, and I need to make this brief ... Mr. Moulton, I owe you an apology, sir, for my conduct a short time ago. I do not often let fury breeze ahead of me like that. It is not your fault, afterall, to get get such a tongue lashing when all you were doing was inquirering to my well being, and for that I sincerely apologize!"

"Miss, McKenna! Rest assured I take no offense, and I accept your apology."

"Oh good .... well ..." Bonnie was turning to leave,

"Miss McKenna, I about have your paper work completed with concern to our prior discussion. May I locate you tomorrow so I can get some signitures?"

"Well .... yes, that would be fine! I'll be at the old Millenery shop most of the day. W.J. has found someone who will be lettering the front window for me, I need to get some cleaning done, as I understand some supplies will be arriving from Chicago ... though I do not know the extent of that. So, yes, please stop by there, and I will be happy to see what you have drawn up."

Bonnie was again turning out the door, and swung back again, " Actually, in light of what happened today .... perhaps I should consider having a will drawn up, too. Let me think on the subject matter tonight, and perhaps we can discuss that tomorrow as well?"

"Certainly, Miss McKenna .... until tomorrow?"

With a nod of her head, Bonnie, Sarah, and Dawg continued down the street.

"Look, Bonnie! There's Duzy!"

"Oh good! Let's go meet up with her, shall we?"

Sarah ran to hug Duzy, which brought a smile to Duzy's face, but as Bonnie reached her, she saw some stress lines across the young womans face, "Looks like you are having as strange a day as I am! Do you want to go first, or should I?" With a slight chuckle, Bonnie wove her arm through Duzy's, and the three .... or shall we say four, with Dawg ... walked with their concerning conversations.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Kid Sopris 8-22-07

 

When problems arise , sometimes one can not see the path to solutions. Our vision becomes narrow and the intensity to resolve the issues become more volatile.

"Why must you do anything? asked Sopris. "Why can't you just wait for someone to come to you?. Your mineral rights are worth a great deal of money, only if they can be mined. Ms. Bonnie, you do not look like a underground ore miner; perhaps waiting for those who are experts to come to you is the best solution. One word of caution, not all who were given names from the Bible are true. Lucifer takes on many forms. Beware of the man who travels far, talks with ease and smoothness of tongue, and hesitates to use your attorney to resolves any questions".

"Evil will travel far and wide to deprive many and leave nothing. I suspect that the rumors you have referred to are from those who knew of your prosperity long before it was yours to have."

"And one final thought, Should you lose all your earthly possessions tomorrow, do you not still have the most precious of gifts?"

Ah the train has arrived from Denver, I wonder what evil it brings to Firelands this day?, Rev. Sopris thought.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Duzy Wales 8-22-07

 

Duzy had been lost in her own thoughts and had not been paying attention to all that was going on as she penned her letter. Writing her Mama and Papa hadn’t been easy. There was so much to say, so many changes, and she could only hope that with the experience of raising children and living their own happy and fulfilled lives, that they would understand.

After finishing the letter, Duzy dressed to go into town to see if Sheriff Landers had found the men she needed to start work on the buildings. Everyone was speaking of a rabid wolf and she spotted the Sheriff right away. It seemed everything changed quickly in Firelands, as Sheriff Landers was now Mr. Tom Landers and she would see Sheriff Keller later in the day to congratulate him on his new position. She forgot all about the wolf.

Mr. Landers not only surprised Duzy by having a full team of workers lined up, but asked for the position of foreman for the job. He then surprised her by asking to invest in the “Silver Jewel” and take part in the daily running of it as well, if she would allow him to. “You see, Miss Duzy, I never wanted to be a lawman, always thought of owning a ranch, but after this idea of yours, I think I would enjoy helping to run a nice establishment, and no insult intended, but with a man helping to run it, I think the people of Firelands will be more accepting.” From bitter experience, Duzy knew he was right and it would also give her time to do some investigating on her own, and writing some articles to send to different papers and see if she could get them published. She also had the new camera from her Papa that she hadn’t had the chance to use. "That would be nice, Mr. Landers, we shall see Mr. Moulton and work out the particulars." It seemed everything was going wonderfully!

Mr. Landers hadn’t told Duzy that being close to her was one of the enticing things about investing in the “Silver Jewel.” Time would tell whether that was meant to be, he thought, although he could get lost in those big brown eyes!

Bobby came running with two telegrams for Duzy. She thanked him and handed him some coins. One read: Luke on way. Stop. Be careful, heard rumors. Stop. Sending someone I trust. Stop. Love, Papa. Stop. Duzy was angry that Luke was coming and not respecting her wishes, but she couldn’t figure out what Papa meant by the “rumors” as she had never known him to do wrong, he just didn’t seem to be the man she was looking for in her life. Then, she could imagine how he would react when he found her building a gambling hall and saloon instead of running the newspaper office. She could almost hear the ranting and was happy she had written her Papa before he could tell him. And, who could this person be that he trusted and why hadn’t he given her his name? Could this be the “trouble” she knew was on the way?

Mr. Landers had noticed Duzy’s reaction and asked if everything was fine. She handed the telegraph to him and he then asked, “Who is Luke?” “He is the man everyone back home thought I would marry, but it just wasn’t right, although I am not sure what Papa is talking about.” Tom meant to talk to Sheriff Keller and Charlie MacNeil to give the two the heads up on this “Luke,” and he would be watching as well. Duzy handed the pictures she had brought of the “Crystal Palace” and the two discussed how she wanted the construction and renovation to begin. She made a mental note to talk to Bonnie, Aunt Esther, Tilly and Sheriff Keller on any renovations they would need. She remembered the other telegraph and it simply stated: Shipment sent. Stop.

Duzy saw Sheriff Keller and excused herself from Mr. Landers. Walking up to him, she noticed the shiny badge, and said, "Congratulations, Sheriff Keller!" He thanked her kindly and then proceeded to tell her of the talk between himself and her Aunt Esther. Duzy was delighted for both of them, as she already knew how Aunt Esther felt and it had been obvious how Sheriff Keller had felt since he first met her. "Sheriff Keller, have you seen Bonnie and Sarah today?" "Yes ma'am, Miss Duzy, and please call me Linn?" "Thank you, and we can drop the formalities and you may call me Duzy," she stated. "I noticed Bonnie going toward the church with Sarah," he said.

Not wanting to interfere with whatever Bonnie had to talk to Reverend Kid about, she turned to walk to the newspaper office. She had the key and walked inside, thinking she would be elated. Instead, she saw the sign from the newspaper office and her heart dropped. Not realizing until this moment how it would feel to walk inside the building, she found herself in a state of shock as all the changes hit at once! She sat down inside the building and let the tears start to flow.

It was then that she heard the train whistle in the distance.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Lady Leigh 8-22-07

 

Bonnie entered the church as Charlie was leaving. Bonnie hoped he wasn't leaving due to her arriving, "Mr. MacNeil? I wanted to thank you for Dawg. He is a most amazing animal! He .... ah ... just killed a wolf ... there in town while I was walking here. He's fine! He followed us here."

"So that is what all the commotion was about. Well if you will excuse me Ms. Bonnie ... Sarah." Charlie left and as he walked away, Bonnie noriced Dawg stayed behind.

Quietly, "Sarah, I'm sorry .... Dawg is here, and you can step outside to be with him."

"Thank you Bonnie. You know? Your voice can get kinda loud when you're mad. But it's Ok, cuz I was mad, too."

Bonnie looked at Sarah sit out on the top step with Dawg under her arm. "Rev. Sopris? Please tell me I am not interupting, and please tell me you can answer some questions? ......"

"Coffee?"

"No thank you."

"Ms Bonnie, I may not have all of the answers you seek."

"I Have tons of questions. Some of them may be tangled with others, and I can't help but wonder if some stem from the mineral rights. So, let us start with that one. Perhaps you have heard, but it seems I own some Mineral rights, and I don't know what my options are with concern to them. If my Father had them well before he died, and if my Mother did not know about them, and if my step brother was out here and found trouble due to them, then what should I do? I do not want harm to come to Sarah, Duzy, Esther and Tilly. Would it be better to sell shares? Would there be no more trouble if I do that? Or is that just giving in? Their worth is substancial."

It was Esther who first made the referrence about the possible mineral and the disasters that have followed Bonnie the past few years. And the more Bonnie thought about it, the more it sounded logical. The Rev was a wise man. Bonnie knew he could councel her with those mineral rights. So ... she let him have the floor.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Kid Sopris 8-21-07

 

It wasn't long before the quiet meeting between Rev. Sopris and Charlie was cut short. A small commotion near town had just about every body out and speaking at once.

Sopris remarks, "When the Lord creates activity, never is there a shortage of entertainment". Whatever was on Charlies mind, seemed to temporarily pass with the appearance of Bonnie and Sarah at the Church Steps.

Bonnie appeared to be between Heaven and earth, desert and sea; frazzled, worried, shaken and at her wits end. Sarah had big eyes, appeared confused and was constantly looking back at Dawg.

Charlie, excused himself, while bidding hello to the ladies. Something was on Bonnie's mind. Rev. Sopris prepared for a good listen..."Please, won't you both come in and have a seat, make yourself at home in God's House".

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Lady Leigh 8-21-07

 

People were running out into the street wondering what was going on. Micheal Moulton ran to Bonnie and approached the auburn haired women with hands on her hips,

"Miss McKenna! Are you all right?"

"No I am not alright!! What kind of a stupid question is that!" Moulton opened his mouth to speak, but Bonnie shut him off with her own voice, "I am scared to death! And more than that, I am angry! Let me ask you a question, Mr. Moulton, is life supposed to be this dang hard?" Again Moulton tried to say something, but was again cut off, "No! I don't think it is supposed to be this dang difficult! In fact, up until three years ago life was beginning to be pretty good despite the fact my father was gone! Then my Mama and sister die, the only home I knew was taken away from me, I end up in a brothel, supposedly signing a contract to the likes of Sam by my own accord, I saw filth on a daily basis, made to do unspeakable things, finally am able to get out of that hell hole, only to daily have more and more unanswered questions!"

Bonnie then turned to Linn, "And though I am grateful beyond all words for what you did, Mr. Keller, the next time I throw my daughter on YOUR horse to remove her from danger, he had BETTER run!!!"

Bonnie pulled a very bewildered Sarah off of Sam's back, took her by the arm, and continued on to the church.

"Sarah! I don't know about you, but I think life really stinks sometimes!"

"But Bonnie! Dawg is here! I want to see Dawg!"

"Later, Sarah .... Later!"

Linn walked over to Moulton, "McKenna is a Scottish name you know?"
Micheal just stood there shaking his head.

Sheriff Keller dispersed all of the people, looking down at the dead animal, and over to Sam. "What an interesting way to start this new job, Sam ..."

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 8-21-07

 

I raised my hand and solemnly swore, and Sheriff Landers removed the Sheriff's star from his vest as I removed my old Chauncey deputy marshal's badge from mine.
Landers pinned the badge on me and shook my hand with a grin as broad as Texas. "I am proud of you," he said simply. "You're the right man for this job."
"I'll do my best," I said, the solemn weight of responsibility a little heavier now that I was the chief officer. I squared my shoulders. A burden I was used to, I reminded myself.
I grinned.
"Can I buy you a drink, Mr. Landers?" I asked.
He nodded, smiling broadly. "I'd take that kindly."
A thought occurred to me. "Say, where's Charlie?"
"He stepped out a little bit ago. Said the coffee would float a mule shoe."
"He's likely right. Smells kind of rank." I looked back toward the cells. "Reckon I'd best not leave the fellows unguarded just yet."
We stepped out onto the board walk. Sam stood hip shot at the hitch rail, content to doze and dream whatever horses dream about; little was going on, the only movement was Miz Bonnie and Sarah, at the far end of the street.
"Now darn it," I said, "had I known they were coming this-a-way I'd have ridden them in. Sam could carry them both with no problem."
Landers and I both froze, squinting a little.
I jerked the reins free and took a long step into the saddle.
"YAAH!" I exclaimed, bringing Sam about, and I felt his hind quarters bunch up under us and we shot out toward the ladies. Two long strides and Sam was at full gallop.
Landers pulled back into the sheriff's office and unlocked the gunrack. Selecting a Sharps rifle, he drew the hammer to half-cock, dropped the lever and ran a cartridge the size of a panatela into the breech, and flipped up the vernier sight.
I was leaned over Sam's neck, willing him to greater speed; my hat was gone, somewhere behind me, and the very last of my worries. Beside me a dark streak came alongside, swift as an arrow, sure as death and black as sin itself.
Bonnie frowned as she saw our approach, then turned.
She seized Sarah about the waist and whirled her off the ground, and turned to run.
A prairie wolf was bearing down on them, bubbly slobbers drooling from its jowls.
Sam had his speed up; half a ton of horse flesh, at full gallop, is not an easy thing to stop, and Sam made no effort. He hit that prairie wolf with his forehooves on the way past. Dawg was on the wolf in the next moment, jaws locked on its throat.
Sam came about like a clipper ship and laid his ears back.
Bonnie, taking no chances, was moving at a dead run.
Landers set the rear trigger of the Sharps and swore.
I kicked out of the stirrups and hit the ground running. Sam galloped on toward Bonnie and slowed to a walk. Bonnie swung Sarah into the saddle and smacked Sam across the hind quarters.
Sarah laughed with delight.
Sam turned and gave Bonnie a wounded look.
Bonnie shooed at him with her hands. "Go!"
Sam shook his great head and blew.
Dawg was silent, jaws locked around the prairie wolf's throat. The rabid wolf was struggling.
I was not about to shoot the wolf, not with Dawg having hold of him, so I drew my knife. "Holt still, Dawg," I said softly, and feeling the base of the wolf's skull, where the spine joins, I positioned the point of the blade, and drew back my arm, and hit the pommel with the heel of my hand.
The wolf shivered, and was dead.
Dawg held on for a little longer. When he finally let go he ran his tongue out as if he'd just had hold of something distasteful.
I put my boot on the wolf's head and withdrew the blade. Wiping it on the wolf's fur, I considered whether there was sufficient scrap wood or burnable trash to make a good fire, as I did not want this carcass infecting anything else. Dawg should be all right, he hadn't got bit. I would tell Charlie.
Bonnie had her hands on her hips, glaring at Sam.
Sam was looking tolerantly at Bonnie.
Sarah was petting Sam's neck and telling him he was a good boy.
Landers dropped the breech block and folded down the vernier.
"Hey Linn!" he hollered. "I'll take that drink now!"

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Kid Sopris 8-21-07

 

Rev. Sopris met Charlie MacNeil near the front door of the church. One look at Charlies eyes, told Sopris that things were not right, something bothered the straight forward man.

Sopris Spoke first; "There are people out there operating without any decent restraint, totally beyond the pale of any acceptable human conduct. In this life, things get confused out there, power, ideals, the old morality, and practical cowboy necessity. Because there's a conflict in every human heart between the rational and the irrational, between good and evil. The good does not always triumph. Sometimes the dark side overcomes what Lincoln called the better angels of our nature. Every man and woman has got a breaking point. You and I have. Don't let it take you over Charlie! Come on in I think I still have some Vanilla and fresh coffee, Say ya ever had Iced coffee Charlie?"

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Lady Leigh 8-21-07

 

Bonnie could not get the telegram out of her mind. As a result, she was doing more "unsewing" than sewing. A sewing machine was supposed to take a 19 hour project by hand down to less than 2 hours .... but not this afternoon! Sarah was having better luck practicing her straight stitch with needle and thread while making a new blanket for Dolly.

Bonnie knew she had to try to get some kind of a handle on things. First of all, who told the Rosenthals she was dead, and why? Then there was this surprise right out of the blue with the mineral rights. That subject alone raised a whole lot of questions. What was Bonnie supposed to do with this, and what were her options with concern to it?

"Oh for Pete's sake! There has to be someone around here that can help me with this!!!" Bonnie was frustrated, and threw down Sarah's pantaloons.

"What Bonnie? What's the matter?"

"Sarah? There is only one person that I can remotely think of who can answer any of my questions! Let's go make a visit to the Reverand."

 

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Charlie MacNeil 8-21-07

 

Linn left the jail with a bemused look on his face. Charlie poured a cup of coffee and took a sip. He made a sour face and took another sip then poured the coffee out a nearby open window. It was too strong even for him. That blasted stuff must have been sitting there cooking most of the day.

Charlie sat down to contemplate the turn of events life had brought his way. Behind him, he could hear Sam and that Higgins character snoring the afternoon away and was sorely tempted to do the same thing himself. But something familiar was happening, something he'd hoped would never happen again, that wouldn't let him take a siesta.

Charlie had his dark side. So did Dawg. Dawg's was brought out by anyone who did children or ladies dirt. Most of the time Dawg was the friendly, tail-wagging softie that Sara saw, but under the right circumstances he became the towering wrath of the Lord. Charlie was the same way.

The vast majority of the time Charlie went about the law's business coolly and calmly, and he was pretty good at taking care of that business. The prisoner roster at the territorial prison could attest to that. But when things went beyond the law's business Charlie's dark side emerged. And it usually got him hurt, because when his icy cold rage erupted he became oblivious to anything but making those who transcended both the law of the land and the law of the Lord pay for their crimes.

The last time had been nearly ten years ago and he'd come close to dying because of it. He'd gotten involved with a small town, similar to Firelands, that had been overrun with cutthroats and murderers. The town fathers had been helpless to do anything because anyone who objected died. Charlie had drifted into town on a nearly white buckskin horse and ridden out three months later, weak and pale and with new scars added to his collection. A lot of men had died, but that small town had gotten a new lease on life. Charlie had ridden through those intervening years hoping never to feel again the way he'd felt then. But the sight of the S.C.O.L.D. coin and the talk with the hooded man had started a stirring deep within him.

Charlie got to his feet, put on his hat, and left the jail. He went at a fast walk toward the church. He could feel a storm coming toward the town, a storm not of cloud but of evil. And he knew he needed to enlist more help than just Linn Keller. Help not only to save the town of Firelands, but help to save himself.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 8-20-07

 

Like most ladies of quality, Esther knew how to make an entrance, but an entrance has to be properly made: one swept into a ballroom on a handsome gentleman's arm, for instance; one paced into a schoolroom full of unruly children; an entrance is sometimes best made with silence, and subtlety, perhaps with a coquettish flutter of a fan, a glance, a tilt of the head.
All Esther had to do was smile.
Bonnie's voice plucked itself from my thoughts like the telegram she withdrew from my fingers; somewhere, distant in my mind, the idea that she made a most lively corpse amused itself into my memory, to be examined and puzzled over at a later time.
The rose, forgotten, was still between thumb and forefinger.
"Esther," I asked, "would you walk with me?"
Esther lifted her skirt as she stepped delicately off the porch. She laid her hand on my arm and tilted her head, at once expressing amusement, and attention.
I remembered the rose.
She took the rose, and smelled it, and lowered her gaze, and I could see that she too had a past, and she was looking deep into it, remembering.
"A good memory?" I asked gently.
She nodded. I could not quite read her expression.
She withdrew a delicate little lacy hankie from her sleeve and pressed it to her eyes, trying be dainty, trying to be ladylike, and it was like a dam breaking with a slow and terrible majesty.
I did the only thing I could think of.
I wrapped her in my arms and held her.

Bonnie took Sarah's hand. "Come inside, Sarah," she said. "I need your help."
"Is something wrong with Aunt Esther?"
"No, dear, nothing's wrong at all."
"Then why's she crying?"
"It's all right. Grown-ups do that from time to time. Now let's see if you can't help me with some sewing!"

Sam contentedly sampled the native vegetation -- fortunately he was more interested in grass than their flower bed -- I watched Sam, and looked around, cautiously. I'd let my guard down again. A man could get himself killed doing that, I thought. Matter of fact I had two scars that bore mute testimony to the folly of inattention.
Esther took a deep breath and used the last dry corner of her dainty little kerchief. "You must think terribly of me," she said, pressing the kerchief to her nose.
"I think we grieve because we have loved, and when we grieve hard it's because we have loved deeply," I replied quietly.
She nodded and drew her composure around herself like a cloak.
Holding up the rose, she smiled. "You kept the buds," she smiled. "They will bloom in a day or two. Let me get this in some water." She looked up at me. "Please come in. I'm sure there is some cobbler."
"Forgive me, I cannot," I said, suddenly unsure of myself. "Esther, I am of a mind to be Sheriff."
Esther smiled. "I know."
Somehow I was not surprised that she knew. Something told me very little happened that she either did not know or could not figure out.
"I did not want to come out here like a little boy showing off his new star."
"Somehow I can't picture you showing off like a little boy."
"Esther, if it were possible, I would be having brandy and cigars with your father, or your eldest brother, and talking politics and all the things men speak of over brandy, and after some little time I would be asking them for their permission to call on you."
I had Esther's gaze.
I could swim in those eyes.
"Esther, may I call on you again?"
Esther recognized the formality of the request, the propriety I was observing.
"Yes, Mr. Keller," she said with that quiet smile, "Yes, you may."

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Lady Leigh 8-20-07

 

Bonnie could see Linn approaching, and not to make the same mistake as her daughter had done, Bonnie quietly called for Esther, then she stepped out to greet Linn, "Hello Mr. Keller"

"The same to you, Ms. Bonnie. How are you doing today?"

"Oh ... not bad for a dead person, I suppose."

"Excuse me!"

"I received a telegram ... that's why Billy is here." Bonnie then wispered, "Though I think Billy's lucky Sarah's laughing. Seems they had a misunderstanding at school last year." Then Bonnie held the telegram out to Linn, "I should probably send a reply back, but I just don't know how to respond!"

He glanced over it, and Bonnie continued on, "This whole situation just gets more and more puzzeling to me, Mr. Keller! I find myself with so many questions, and I'd really like a few answers ... Don't suppose you have a crystal ball do you?"

But Bonnie noticed Linn may not have heard the last part of her conversation as Esther came to the front door. SHe then looked up to Linn, and Bonnie chuckled to herself. Quite honestly, it was as if at that percise moment of the two seeing each other, nobody else exsisted. Bonnie slipped the telegram out of his fingers and excused herself walking in the direction of the children.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 8-20-07

 

Reverend Sopris spoke quietly, as he generally did, but his words carried a power belied by his soft tones.
I nodded. "Thank you, Reverend," I said. "I shall do that."
I settled my sweat stained hat on my head as I stepped across the threshold. All was quiet without the church building.
I cut Miz Esther a single red rose, one with two buds beside it; this, I thought, would give her pleasure longer than a single flower.
For a miracle, Sam did not try to eat the rose; he did not even sniff at it, so I rewarded him with a big pinch of chawin tobacker. He grunted in pleasure as velvety lips whisked the delicacy from my palm.
I would tell Miz Esther of my decision. Had I stopped by the Sheriff's office first and then worn my Sheriff's star out to give her the rose, it might look like showing off.
No man ever loses the ability to think himself irresistible to the ladies, no matter how old he gets, and every man has a little boy in him that likes to show off. I was no different from any man, but I'd like to think that the years that have added winter's snowy stains to my mustache have taught me the veracity of the Ecclesiastical admonition, "For all things there is a time," and this was not the time to be showing off.
I could see Sarah and a little boy playing. It was a good thing to see. I heard their shreiks and laughter, and something loosened inside me, something that been too tight for too long.
Sam picked up his step.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Kid Sopris 8-19-07

 

In the silence of mans' mind, a roar of thoughts can cause you to go deaf. Through the quietness of the Church, Rev. Sopris heard the inner thoughts and prayers of a strong minded man. Searching for guidance, and perhaps a blessing, Linn Keller was on his own; this was a question he had to figure the answer out on his own and with the Lord.

Corners squared, planks straight, send the message of straight and narrow. Man's destiny lies within the Hallowed walls of the church, Answers lies within mans heart. If thou heart be true and good, answers will be easy, though one may not like them. If thous heart is false and evil, a man wouldn't be there.

Linn's appearance already defines his devotion to duty, honor, integrity and the basic principles of Christianity.

Sopris entered after much waiting and spoke to Linn. "Dep. Keller, you know the answers, you always have. There is no doubt as to your destiny if you shall be true to your heart. Go In peace, and help your self to a rose. Esther will love it"

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 8-19-07

 

I set down in the front pew and looked at the altar.
It don't profit to start something important without talking to God about it and I felt the need to discuss the matter.
Hat in hand and lump in throat, I set there in the quiet, considering.
I had held positions of responsibility before and likely would again, one way or another, but when there's an official title to go along with it, well, somehow it seems more ... solemn? Official? It's no less real, just more formal.
Sheriff.
I had commanded men in the theater of battle.
I had been a deputy town marshal, then town marshal.
I had taught school, briefly, until I talked the town fathers into hiring a proper schoolmarm. Actually I told them I was leaving and they could do without, or they could hire a particular young lady I'd lined up for the position, and after the usual political scuffling where the several councilmen tried to out-maneuver each the other for some imagined advantage, they agreed to hire the lass.
Council President demanded I leave my badge.
I told him I had bought it with my own cash money and if he wanted it he could pay me for it, otherwise I was keeping it. He looked like he'd bit a sour pickle but was not inclined to pay good money for what he thought he could steal from me.
That was a long time ago. My gaze wandered up the tightly-fitted planks. If you would gauge a carpenter's skill, my father had told me, look at his corners. The carpenter here had done a workmanlike job. The corners were square and tight, every one of them.
My hand raised to the badge I wore. It was my old deputy town marshal's badge. Firelands did not have any deputy sheriff badges and as long as I had this one I saw no need to murder a star out of a tobacco tin with a set of tin shears.
I considered the matter for a good long while before addressing the Almighty.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Lady Leigh 8-19-07

 

"Bonnie!!! That boy is here again!" Sarah yelled up the stairs. Bonnie was fortunate enough to buy a Singer Treadle Machine at the Merchantile, and was busy making Sarah some flimsies. Stopping her sewing, she went downstairs.

Hands on her hips, Sarah was giving the little fella a staredown, complete with clenched jaw and wrinkles between her eyebrows. "Sarah?" Bonnie scolded, "Why don't you run into the pantry and get Billy a couple of cookies that Tilly made." With an exaggerated turn, Sarah stomped off to do what she was told. Bonnie looked at Billy, "I'm sorry, Billy... I hope she didn't make you uncomfortable?"

"No, Ms. Bonnie," Billy replied nevously, "I wasn't very nice to her last school year ... but I never meant anything by what I said. Other kids were being spiteful, and I did it, too ... but I have always felt real bad about it! Honest Ms. Bonnie!"

"Well, Billy, maybe it is Sarah you should appologize to ... though I am very glad you told me."

"Awh, she won't pay me any mind ...."

"I wouldn't be so sure about that, Billy. You might have to work to earn her trust, but if you try real hard, you will more than likely win. Now why have you come today?"

" I have a telegram for you Ms. Bonnie. Fact is, I've been delivering them alot today!"

Sarah came out then with 5 cookies in her hand, "these two are for you, and if your're nice, I'll let you have another!"

"Sarah!" Bonnie reprimanded once again, as she took the telegram from Billy, "You behave! We'll discuss this later!"

"Yes, Bonnie ....." and the two disappeared out the front door.

Bonnie opened the telegram and read, "Praise God! stop We were told you were dead! stop Letter following. stop Merchandise requested will go to you soon. stop You have made us so happy to hear from you. stop We are rejoicing! stop Abram Rosenthal"

Bonnie reread the telegram two more times .... "they were told I was dead?"

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Charlie MacNeil 8-19-07

 

Charlie looked back at Linn. "Well, we need to talk about that," he began. The two men began walking toward the Sheriff's office.

"Why's that?" Linn wanted to know.

"Well, the gent I told you about is in the Territorial Prison. Or was," Charlie said.

"You're kidding, right?"

"Nope. He's supposed to have gotten out today, according to the warden," Charlie went on. "And the warden was supposed to see that he got on the first means of transportation that'll get him to Firelands. Fortunately the railroad runs through here. I'm still waiting to hear from the warden whether or not ol' Walter got on the first train headed this way."

Linn stared at him for a moment. "What makes you think this Walter would do what you want him to?"

"Because he owes me," Charlie said. "I put him there, but he got a cushy job there because of me. And besides which, he knows I'll hunt him down and do him severe bodily injury if he does run. The little twerp cost me some time flat on my back nursing a bullet hole."

"A bookkeeper shot you?" Linn asked incredulously. They stepped into the office and swung the door shut behind themselves.

"No, his wife did," Charlie said uncomfortably. "From behind, no less. Apparently she didn't appreciate me shackling her husband to a buckboard to take him to jail." He grinned at Linn. "On the other hand, he did take the .22 away from her, and turn himself in."

"Good grief," Linn said. "Are you just jinxed, or what?"

"Or what, mostly," Charlie said. "Usually things don't go quite that bad."

There was a knock on the door and the kid from the telegraph office came in with an envelope in his hand. "Mister MacNeil, you got a telegram."

"Thanks," Charlie said. He gave the boy four bits. When the boy had gone, Charlie opened the envelope and read what was inside. He looked up at Linn. "Walter'll be here tomorrow morning. The warden personally put him on the train."

"Good," Linn said. "Now for the next thing I wondered about. The Sheriff wants to resign his job and go to work for Miss Duzy and wondered if one of us wanted to be Sheriff. You interested?"

Charlie chuckled and said, "Not me. I was just passing through on my way home, remember? I think maybe you're the man for that job."

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 8-18-07

 

I'd just brushed Sam down when Charlie MacNeil came into the livery.
"Thought you'd be out at the ladies' place," he grinned.
I patted my flat belly. "Was it up to me I'd live out there, but they'd have to charge me for feed!"
Charlie's expression flattened and he pulled a telegraph flimsy out of his vest pocket.
Sam turned his head to see why I wasn't paying attention to him.
I read the telegram and whistled.
"Sam and Higgins?"
"Singing like canaries."
"Anything good?"
Charlie repeated the conversation with a lawman's eiditic memory, even to the nervous stammer.
"Chances are the banker is to be replaced," I thought out loud. "We'd best seize the bank records and its assets. Your jurisdiction is Federal. I'm only county. Our judge is honest as the day is long but where gold is involved there's men to be bought, and if the state legislature is on the payroll, this Consortium can have him replaced with someone as noble as Slade." I rubbed my chin. "You'd mentioned a bookkeeper you knew that could help us make sense of Carsey's records. How long til he gets here?"

The engineer saluted Firelands with a long pull on his whistle chain.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Kid Sopris 8-18-07

 

Sopris and MacNeil were exchanging casual conversation on main street regarding current events. When the Telegraph operator came running up to MacNeil with a message for the Sheriff.

The telegram was from the territorial prison warden in Canon City, Colorado, stating that Duke Slade had been murdered n prison by unknown prison inmates. MacNeil shared the information with Rev. Sopris and both seemed to get a unusual look upon their faces but they both must have been thinking the same, cause the headed towards the jail.

Macneil asked the Reverend to hang around and listen to a story or two unfold. MacNeil figured he might need a witness.

Once at the Jail, MacNeil gathered Higgins and Sam together to read them the telegram. Both men looked at each other in disbelief and a look of fear came over them. Sam, stated, "Y'all promised me protection if I talked, does it still apply?" Higgins spoke up "me too!"

It wasn't long before both men began to unravel like a tightly wound top.

They told a story of how, men would go to work for business owners or mines, and then create a story of unpaid labor. The alleged victims would file a writ in federal courts allegeding non payment. Corrupted judges then would issue liens against the business or property owner with outlandish fees. When the fees, fines and levies couldn't be paid, the Court would seize the property and give title to the complaining party who then would sign the deed over to one or more of the "Consortium Conspiracy" partners. The Deeds though obtained illegally would have the courts endorsements, making appear legitimate.

Higgins said the scheme worked real well in Aspen, on Red Mountain and in Telluride Colorado. Someone would have to go look at the Judges on all those cases to identify them...Most

Higgins and Sam were both hired to fulfill the needs, of this conspiracy. Carsey at the bank would foreclose on property in order to try and get the water and mineral rights. Slade was close to tying things up, until his mistakes landed him in trouble.

Higgins and Sam both related that men were in route from the East to assume new positions and began a new attempt to integrate within the community and began claims over a period of time to acquire as much as they could.

Neither men knew the names of other conspirators, or the corrupted Judges; But Higgins said that he knew the name of one man..."Luke".

MacNeil now had to find Keller, who MacNeil was sure was following Esther around like a new puppy finding a home. Sheriff Landers seemed to have his own dreams...Reverend Sopris, Smiled bid MacNeil a good day and spoke of finding Bigfoot Wallace for some fishing company down by the river.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Lady Leigh 8-18-07

 

"I honestly do not know what it all means," Bonnie was talking to the others, Sarah off playing with Dawg a short distance away. The women decided to purchase a loaf of bread, cheese and apples at the Merchantile, while asuring Sarah, "Yes, you can have your stick candy, but only after you some of this as well!" So they spread a blanket on the grass by the church and proceeded to eat a bite of lunch.

"Mr. Moulton may have been saying some things of importance, but quite frankly, I wasn't it inclined to be listening." There were a few chuckles over that last statement. "But to be honest with you, I don't think Mama knew about that particular investment of Papa's!"

"Why do you say that, my dear," asked Esther, "Are you sure she did not know about it, or are you looking at this situation through the eyes of a child, who just may not have been told about it all?"

"I suppose that could be the case, Esther, but then why did Mama lower the standard of living she was accustomed to, and run a boarding house? I mean, don't get me wrong! There was absolutely nothing wrong with her doing that! It was a wonderful place!" Bonnie remembered her Mama had some of the furniture from the Chicago house sent, as well as her dishes and other cherished pieces. She always added a touch of class, and the people that stayed there were generally people of some means ... " It just doesn't make any sense, that's all. All I do know, is after Papa was killed in the Chicago fire in 1871, Mama said we needed to come here. That my step brother,Jamie, was here, and according to Papa, if anything ever happened to him, the interest in the textile business and what was in Firelands, would secure us with a good life."

"But your brother wasn't here, was he?" commented Tilly.

"No ..... Mama even hired the Pinkertons to find Jamie. Like I told Mr. Moulton, it's like Jamie simply vanished from the face of the earth! It has been over 15 years without a word."

Duzy added, "Do you suppose your Mother just didn't know what to do with the investment here? It sounds like your brother was meant to come here and maybe handle your Fathers investment. Maybe your Mama simply did not know the legalities of it all."

"Or perhaps your Mother was led astray once arriving here ..." Conversation quieted with what Esther had just said.

Moments later Bonnie spoke, "I suppose I need to find out what my options are. Mr. Moulton appears to be an honest man, and if I apprise the Rev. and Mr. Keller, I really don't fear being misled ..... But honestly, let us change the subject. Duzy? How are you going to proceed now that you have the properties?"

Duzy filled them in with what she knew, talking with animation the entire time. The Silver Jewel was being born, and not just in thoughts alone, but now in deed, and Duzy couldn't be more delighted. In fact, all of the women had much to celebrate. Life was indeed good at the present.

[Firelands-The Beginning]

Linn Keller 8-18-07

 

Half a dozen hard men rode toward town.
Well mounted, they rode with the ease of natural horsemen: born and raised in Kentucky, displaced by the war and its aftermath, they had gone west as restless men do. All had been too young to fight in the War of Northern Aggression; most had been deprived of the genteel upbringing that had been their parents' ... but all had the ingrained courtesy that was their Kentucky heritage, and all spoke with the chracteristic Suth'n accent.
To a man they were tall and lean; their hands were callused, but skillful; each had his gifts, his weaknesses, but all bore the same stamp on their features. Brothers and cousins, they shared the same last name, and the same sense of honor.
They had stood, heads bowed, hats in hand, around a freshly dug grave: Emmett's sister had been the last link holding them to their now-forfeit ancestral lands.
Emmett Daine squared his shoulders and settled the broad brimmed farmer's hat on his head.
"There is a debt to be paid," he said.
They shared one last supper together, and got a good night's rest.
Daybreak saw six lean, tall kinsmen riding westward.