Post by sandymarek on Dec 8, 2010 22:39:29 GMT -4
Part 386
“Here’s the other wire,” Jack shows him, “That I picked up when I arrived in Denver.”
Taking it, Jarrod reads out loud, “Jack…five of hearts…Joker in the box…look for Ace…have a safe trip…see you when you arrive…Father.”
“What does it mean?” Jarrod asks.
“It’s a code,” Jack mentions, “It’s something Father, Jim and I developed a long time ago that in case there is trouble and didn’t want anyone outside of us knowing what it said especially when it comes through a wire and never knowing who might read it.”
“Very clever,” Jarrod says, “And ingenious idea.”
“Father thought it up,” Jack replies, “And it’s a good way to write when you don’t want anyone else but us really understanding what it says.”
“Yes it is” Jarrod admits “But could you do me a favor and decipher it for me? Let me know what it says?”
“Certainly,” Jack says, “It says,” decoding it for him, “Five of hearts meaning $5,000.00; go to Denver means going to the house, Joker in the box means there’s an envelope with money inside of the safe that is hidden behind the picture frame inside the gun room, Ace in the hole means the envelope that contains the power of attorney documents that for some reason is needed and he wanted me to get and bring with me to Stockton.”
“Why would he need $5,000.00?” Jarrod asks of Jack.
“Not sure,” Jack replies, “I just did as requested. It must be something important otherwise he wouldn’t have said urgently or emergency.”
“No,” Jarrod says, “You’re right. You said Jim got one too?”
“Yes,” Jack replies, “Come with me,” and as Jarrod goes with Jack he is taken to the next car and upon going down the aisle he catches sight of Jack’s wife Linda and their children.
“You brought your family with you?” Jarrod asks.
“Yes,” Jack replies, “We didn’t know how long we were gonna be in Stockton for and just in case we’re there longer than necessary I thought it best we go together.”
“Good thinking,” Jarrod replies.
“Jim,” Jack points out, “Did the same thing” going down to the next row of seats, “Linda, Jim,” he calls out, “Look who’s here!”
As they both look up, “Jarrod,” Jim and Linda both reply simultaneously, “Jarrod is that you?” Jim asks.
“It is,” Jarrod replies.
“It’s been a long time,” Jim says quickly as he gets up and takes hold of Jarrod’s hand into his.
“Yes it has,” Jarrod notes.
“You haven’t changed at all,” Linda says simultaneously.
“How you’ve been?” Jim asks of Jarrod.
Jarrod replies, “I’ve been doing well.”
“Mama,” J.J asks, “Who is that?”
“That is your cousin Jarrod,” Linda points out.
“He looks like Papa,” Brandon says.
“Yes he does,” Maureen replies.
“What are you doing here?” Jim asks.
“We’ll get to that in a moment,” Jarrod replies, “I understand you have a wire.”
“Show him the wire,” Jack says, “You got from Father.”
Taking it from out of his pocket “Here” Jim replies handing it to Jarrod.
After reading it, “Let me go show these to Nick,” Jarrod says.
“Nick is here with you?” Jim asks.
“Yes,” Jarrod replies, “And so is Heath.”
“Who’s Heath?” Brandon asks.
“Our brother,” Jarrod mentions, “And your cousin.”
“I heard of him,” Jim mentions.
“So have I,” Jack acknowledges.
“But you didn’t see him yet,” Jarrod notes, “Come with me, you need to meet him.”
As Linda and Maureen get up to go with Jack and Jim, Jarrod offers to help with carrying one of the children in which Maureen graciously hands him Benny while she holds onto Brandon and J.J’s hand with Linda carrying little Katie, Jim carrying Jimmy and Jack carrying little Jason.
As they pass through the second car and reach the third car, “Nick,” Jarrod calls out, “Nick, look who’s here. Look who I found while getting blankets.”
With a puzzling expression “Jack,” Nick says, “Jim?” getting up out of his seat.
As they quickly exchange hugs and hellos “What are you all doing here?” Nick asks.
Angie calls out, “Debbie, look at that man” referring to Jim, “He looks like Jarrod.”
“What about the other one,” Debbie says, “He looks like Heath.”
“Talk about being a spitting image of someone” the mother notes.
“So true,” comes from the father.
“Long story,” Jim says.
Jarrod then calls out “Heath?” shaking him slightly “You need to meet someone.”
Mumbling “Hmm?” Heath opens his eyes.
“Heath,” Jarrod continues, “This here is your cousin Jack and your cousin Jim” introducing them.
Staring at Heath lying there “I don’t believe it,” Jim replies.
“You don’t believe it?” Jack asks.
“This is so incredible,” Linda says.
“Fascinating,” Maureen replies, “Is what it is.”
“Well,” Nick says, “I’ll be.”
“I must admit,” Jim says, “It has been awhile since we’ve seen one another.”
“Yes, it has,” Nick replies.
“Not that long ago,” Jack says, “What’s it been?”
“Before your father passed away,” Jim notes, “We didn’t get to come to the services due to Benny just being born.”
“Nor did we” Jack adds “Due to Katie just about to be born.”
“Right,” Nick replies, “And the last time I seen you (Jack) was (thinking) must’ve been shortly after you got married to Linda.”
“Yes,” Jack says, “Talk about just how long it’s been.”
“I guess,” Nick notes, “It has been longer than we thought. I never knew just how much you look like Heath.”
“Must’ve came with age,” Jim notes, “Or maturity.”
“Could be,” Nick remarks.
“Mama,” J.J. brings up, “That man looks like Papa.”
“Yes, he does,” Linda replies.
“I must say” as Heath is getting up, “I didn’t know that either,” Jack states as he and Heath are staring at the other in total awe with Heath saying, “It looks like I’m looking at myself.”
“Same here Heath,” Jack notes.
As he looks at Jarrod to Jim, “Not to mention the picture of Jim,” Heath brings up, “But I never knew that the likeness of Jarrod to Jim is so…strange…so similar…and yet so….” stopping and thinking of what he wanted to say “…alike.”
“What about you to Jack, Heath,” Jarrod says, “You look very much like he does, except you being a few years younger.”
“That is what I mean,” Heath replies, “Looking at Jack and looking at myself or looking at both you and Jim, it’s so…I don’t know…bizarre.”
“Not bizarre,” Maureen replies, “How about more like uncanny, each of you looks so much like the other except as Jarrod pointed out being a few years younger.”
“Indeed yes,” Linda says, “It has always been said that we all have a double, a twin.”
“Well,” Nick replies, “If Jack was a few years younger and Heath was a few years older it’s quite possible, not to mention the same going for Jarrod and Jim.”
“No question about it,” Maureen says.
“I must say,” Jack brings up, “It’s funny looking at a picture of myself.”
“Yes,” Jim says, “You and Heath are definitely a spitting image of one another.”
Jim and Jack go on introducing the children and their wives to each of the siblings and after they’ve finished reciprocating and exchanging hellos, “Katie,” Heath points out, “Looks a little like Audra when she was that small.”
“Yes,” Jarrod replies, “She sure does.”
“What about J.J here,” Nick says gently patting him on the head, “He looks a little like the picture we seen of you when you were little.”
“That he does,” Jarrod points out, “And we could definitely see the resemblance.”
“Too bad,” Nick notes, “We didn’t see it sooner.”
“Agreed,” Jarrod responds.
“Heath,” Jack says, “Could I ask what happened to your arm?” noticing it in a sling.
Grabbing hold of it, “I had a little accident,” Heath informs him.
“It was more than an accident Heath,” Nick then asks, “But speaking of which, you (glancing up at Jarrod) said you met them in the back?”
“They’re on their way to our place,” Jarrod says.
“Our place?” Nick asks mystified, “Why?”
“Nick,” Jarrod then says, “Look at the wire they got.”
Taking them from Jarrod and upon reading the first one he sees it saying: “Jack…urgent…5 of hearts…go to Denver…more instructions to follow…emergency…” then turning to the second one he sees it saying the same as the first one except “Jim…urgent…5 of hearts…Stockton…emergency,” and then looking at the last one reads, “Jack…five of hearts…Joker in the box…look for Ace…have a safe trip…see you when you arrive…Father.”
Glancing up at them, “What does all this mean?” Nick inquires.
“It’s a code, Nick” Jack mentions, “Father wrote it to us that way so that only we know what it says.”
“Well,” Nick replies, “Explain it to me.”
“We don’t know all the details,” Jim mentions, “But for whatever reason there is behind it Father needs money. Five of hearts is meaning $5,000.00.”
“That means,” Nick brings up, “You both have $5,000.00 on you?”
“Yes,” Jim answers.
“Father,” Jack adds, “Wanted me to go to Denver and grab the money that he had as well as the envelope he had hidden inside the safe behind the picture frame inside the gun room.”
“What envelope?” Nick asks.
“The one containing,” Jack explains, “The power of attorney documents and one that contained money he had in there. He then wanted me to bring them with me to Stockton.”
“So,” Nick says, “With you both bringing $5,000.00 to Stockton, how much does he have in the envelope?”
“$10,000.00,” Jack answers.
“$10,000.00,” Nick says, “So, if you both have $5.000.00 on you and you went to get an envelope from your father’s safe which has $10,000.00 that means you have $20,000.00 between the both of you.”
“That is correct,” Jack replies.
“Why would Uncle Jim need that much money?” Nick asks.
“If we go back,” Heath joins in, “To the wires both Ed and Gene sent they said trouble in San Francisco-Mother and your presence here is needed it must mean somehow money is needed and the only thing I could think of why they would need so much money in so short of time would be maybe someone having or holding Mother for ransom?”
“That’s what I’ve been thinking Heath,” Jarrod says.
“Damn!” Nick lets out.
“Settle down Nick,” Jarrod informs him.
“Settle down?” Nick says.
“Yes,” Jarrod replies, “You need to calm down.”
“How can I calm down?” Nick asks.
“You have to,” Jarrod says, “And you need to stop jumping to conclusions. We don’t even know if that’s what it’s all about yet. Right now, we are just merely speculating.”
“But what if it is?” Heath asks.
“If it is,” Jarrod notes, “We first need to find out first what we’re up against. Find out more about what is going on. When we get to Stockton hopefully Gene will meet us and when the train pulls in he could fill us in on more of what is going on. We’ll then need a plan of action. We just can’t go down to San Francisco just like that,” snapping his fingers, “It’s a big city. The best thing we could do for now is wait.”
“How can you be so calm,” Nick says.
“Because,” Jarrod replies, “One of us has to be and seeing you are too fired up at the moment and one of us needs to have a clear head that job falls upon me.”
“But,” Heath says, “If she has been kidnapped how are we gonna find her?”
“We’ll find her Heath,” Jarrod replies, “But let’s take one thing at a time.”
“Well,” Nick says, “Until we could get to her she better be alright and if someone does have her they will be sorry. She better not be harmed.”
“Nick,” Jarrod brings up, “That is another thing we do have to think of a plan because going in there without one could be dangerous to her. If we want to get her out safely and alive we have to be completely ready.”
Running his right fist into his open left hand, “Well,” Nick tells him, “I’m ready.”
“Yes,” Jarrod replies, “I know you are. But you’re not going to do any good being too fired up.”
“What do we do in the meantime?” Heath asks.
“It is late” Jim suggests “How about we all turning in?”
“I think that to be wise,” Jarrod says, “Seeing we can’t do much now and we won’t be in Stockton until noon I think it’ll do us some good.”
“I think that’s a good idea,” Jack replies, “And in the morning once we’ve all wakened up and had a good hot breakfast we could get more acquainted.”
“So do I” Linda agrees.
“Sorry,” Jim says, “If we are meeting under insinuating circumstances Heath.”
“Insinuating?” Heath mimics.
“He means,” Nick translates, “Not the best circumstances.”
“That is okay,” Heath replies, “I understand.”
“I don’t know if I could sleep,” Nick brings up, “I am too fired up.”
“Try anyway Nick,” Jarrod insists, “We do need to think of a plan and we could think better on a clearer head.”
“I’ll be right back,” Jack says, “I’m gonna get the blankets.”
“Here,” Jarrod says, “I’ll come with you,” and while the rest of the family gets settled into the empty seats that are in that section of the train Jarrod goes with Jack to bring back blankets for everyone.
Part 387
As the train continues on its way heading for Stockton all the passengers on board start falling asleep with Heath occupying two seats together so that he is able to be in a much more comfortable position the younger children are situated between each of their parents with Jarrod and Nick assisting with the two older ones allowing them to be in between them.
5 am
Barkley Ranch
As morning approaches at the ranch each member of the family awakens and after they finish getting ready they meet for breakfast in the dining room. Finishing up Tina and Chrissy helps with the clean up while Audra and Gene grab their school books, their lunch and their horses and head for town.
6:30 am
As the train pulls into the Sacramento Train Station many of the passengers get off there including the family that was talking to the Barkleys that they met at Floyd’s Relay station. Once a few passengers get on board the train blows the whistle and begins pulling away from the station.
Stockton
Reaching the livery and as they are handing their horses over to Pete they hear the bell go off, “There’s the bell,” Audra announces.
“We’ll see you later Pete,” Gene tells him as he and Audra begin running to the school.
Upon reaching the bottom step they are met by 14 year old Jamie who hands Gene a wire who asks, “What’s this?”
“It just came in,” Jamie replies, “I was asked to bring it to you.”
“Thank you,” Gene tells him.
As Jamie goes up the stairs, “What does it say?” Audra asks.
Upon reading it, “It says,” Gene iterates, “Train coming in at 12 noon. Meet us when it arrives…We’ll talk then…Jarrod.”
“They’re on their way back,” Audra brings up, “They must’ve got your wire.”
“Thank goodness,” Gene replies.
“Come on,” Audra then says, “We don’t want to be late.”
Placing the wire in his pocket Gene and Audra resume going up the stairs to the classroom.
Back on the train as it is hitting a little after 8:30 the Barkley family begin waking up from their sleep. Coming over to them, “Do you want to join us?” Jim asks as little J.J and Brandon get up out of their seats, “We’re going to have some breakfast.”
“We’ll be right there,” Jarrod tells him as he stretches and yawns. Glancing back at Heath, “How’d’you sleep Heath?” Jarrod asks of him who replies, “Not bad.”
Glancing over at Nick, “But in between I could hear Nick in and out as I was,” he brings up.
“Sorry about that Heath,” Nick says, “But I had too much on my mind.”
“I know you did,” Heath replies.
“You should’ve tried Nick,” Jarrod tells him.
“I did try,” Nick sternly answers, “But every time I tried closing my eyes I kept having Mother on my mind and the large amount of money that is needed.”
“You know Heath,” Jarrod brings up, “If you could hear Nick in and out then you must not have been sleeping too good yourself.”
“What about you?” Heath inquires, “How did you sleep?”
“The same” Jarrod answers “As the two of you.”
“You must’ve had the same thing on your mind,” Heath replies, “That we did.”
“And I did,” Jarrod then says, “How’s your arm?”
“Doing alright” Heath answers.
Taking hold of his arm and examining it “Sore?” Nick asks.
“Maybe just a tad,” Heath sheepishly answers, “We better go join the others.”
Replying, “Good idea” Jarrod gets up and goes with Nick and Heath to the far car.
In Stockton
Arriving to town, Jim Barkley makes a stop at the telegraph office and upon picking up the two wires that came in he sees one is from Jack and the other is from Jim both informing him they have what is requested and will be arriving in Stockton at 12 noon with the information.
Back on board the train as the three brothers enter the far car they are greeted by the rest of the family. Joining them around the table, they begin eating their breakfast while discussing various topics.
Heath first brings up his living in Strawberry followed by his arrival to the ranch in Stockton.
Then moving onto other topics Heath asks of them, “Seeing we are alike in various ways, Jack, are you a rancher like I am?”
“That I am Heath,” Jack admits.
“And you live in Texas?” Heath asks.
“I do,” Jack answers.
“Jim,” Heath inquires, “I understand you live in Florida.”
“That is correct,” Jim states.
“Are you like Jarrod?” Heath asks, “A lawyer?”
“No,” Jim replies, “I am not a lawyer.”
“Are you a rancher like we are?” Heath asks.
“Partially,” Jim admits, “But I’m also a teacher and I work alongside of the animals in the ocean like the whales and the dolphin.”
“You live near the ocean?” Heath wonders.
“I do,” Jim replies, “I live at the very tip of it. I live in Tallahassee, the capital of the state.”
“So, I take it you have a ranch of your own?” Heath asks.
“I do” Jim replies “Although a portion of it is surrounded by water and the sea creatures that harbor it which is why I decided to work with them.”
“What exactly do you do?” Heath asks, “If you don’t mind my asking.”
“Not at all,” Jim replies, “I basically try to make sure they are safe from people and other harmful sea creatures in the ocean that may harm them, like the sharks. If one is injured I try to bring it to shore or close to shore as possible depending on the circumstances and help it get well and then once it is I return it back to its own original habitat.”
“Habitat?” Heath asks.
“He means,” Nick reiterates, “Return it to where it belongs; to his homeland.”
“I see,” Heath says, “It sounds very interesting.”
“Oh it is,” Jim admits, “It’s very rewarding there is nothing like being a part of their world. It’s so much more different than just raising cattle and the likes.”
“I’m sure it is,” Heath states.
“Could we ask” Jack brings up “What brought the three of you on board this train?”
“We just came or rather I should say we,” Jarrod answers, “Just left Echo Lake.”
“Echo Lake?” Jack asks, “Where is that?”
“North of here,” Jarrod replies, “Close to the Nevada border.”
“What brings you out so far like this?” Jim asks.
“Some of it has to do with me,” Heath explains.
“You?” Jim followed by Jack asks.
Replying “Yes,” Heath begins telling them about how he wound up in Echo Lake due to his being a prisoner at the Wheeler’s ranch.
“You were being held prisoner Heath?” Jack asks.
Nodding his head, “I was,” Heath admits.
“How did you become a prisoner there?” Jack asks.
“It’s a very long story,” Heath mentions, “But some of my being there was due to my uncle.”
“Your uncle?” Jack asks.
Nodding his head, “Yes,” Heath replies, “He set it up for me. He had me brought there.”
“Why?” Jim asks.
“He didn’t like me,” Heath says, “I don’t think I will ever know all of the reasons why but, all I know is he hated me so bad that he did everything he could in his power to keep me away from my mother and out of Strawberry. But thanks to the sheriff there he saved my life, thanks to him I am here now and thanks to him I am who I am now and because of him we went there to clear him of a murder charge he is being accused of, if that makes any sense.”
“It does,” Jim states, “Is Echo Lake far from Strawberry?”
“They are not far away,” Heath says, “But they are still a little bit of a distance from one another.”
“So your uncle had you go there?” Jack inquires.
“Uh-huh,” Heath replies.
“How long were you there?” Jim asks.
“Five months,” Heath answers.
“And how did the sheriff,” Jack asks, “Learn of you being there?”
“I don’t know all of it,” Heath states, “But there came a moment when we tried to escape.”
“Escape?” Jack mimics.
“Yeah,” Heath then says, “But as a result of us escaping or trying to escape I wasn’t so lucky” averting his eyes downward.
Watching as he begins getting shivery, “Heath,” Nick joins in, “Are you okay with this?”
Nodding his head “I’m alright with it” Heath replies.
As Jim looks over at Nick and then at Jarrod who both quietly shake their heads he then turns to Heath who is now looking out the window and says, “Heath, you don’t have to tell us if you don’t want to.”
“No,” Heath replies, “I’ll tell you.”
Placing his hand on his shoulder, “Take it easy Heath,” Nick tells him “It’s okay.”
Showing a smile at Nick, “I’m okay,” assuring him before looking away again and then after taking a deep breath he says “I” closing his eyes and then after swallowing hard continues “Was caught and punished for trying to escape,” glancing first at Jim and then at Jack and then back out the window, “The ones that did manage to get away made their way down to the sheriff’s office and after learning about what took place he came there and got the rest of us out of there.”
“You keeping saying,” Jim notes, “Us or we.”
“There were a lot of us,” Heath mentions, “That were being held.”
“How many is a lot?” Maureen wanted to know.
“There were many I don’t know the full count,” Heath says, “But it’s something the Wheelers did for a long time, long before I even came to there, but at the time I was being held there were 60.”
“Sixty?” both Maureen and Linda ask.
“Yes,” Heath replies.
“They had a habit,” Jarrod joins in, “Of imprisoning boys.”
“Heath,” Jim asks, “How long ago did this occur?”
“Five” Heath answers “Years ago.”
Noticing his youthful-looking face, “Did I hear you right Heath,” Jack asks, “You said this happened to you five years ago?”
“Yes,” Heath replies, “I don’t know all of it but I was so sick by the time the sheriff came and took us out of there. I didn’t even know anything else until I was in his house.”
“He was 13,” Jarrod joins in, “When he was brought there.”
“13?” Jim mimics.
“13,” Nick joins in.
“I find that very interesting Heath,” Jack brings up.
“What’s that?” Heath asks.
“Not how you met the sheriff in Echo Lake or that you went there to clear him of a murder” Jack mentions “But of you’re being a prisoner at the Wheeler’s ranch.”
“Why do you find that interesting?” Nick asks.
“Heath,” Jack brings up, “You said you were very sick when the sheriff took you out of there.”
“I was,” Heath replies, “I didn’t know anything until I woke up and saw him looking down at me.”
“So,” Jack says, “Somewhere’s between you trying to escape to you waking up and seeing the sheriff looking down at you, you must’ve blacked out.”
“I did,” Heath notes, “I just don’t know all of it.”
“Did you do that at any other time?” Jack asks, “Black out I mean?”
“Twice,” Heath answers, “Why?”
“You may find this weird or strange,” Jack mentions, “But it seems at the time you were being held, I find myself looking back and recalling something odd happening to me around that time and for a long time I didn’t understand it but now I think it’s beginning to.”
“What’s that?” Jarrod asks.
Part 388
“It happened to me on two other occasions as well which is why I asked that question.” Jack then asks, “Heath, did one of those other two times occur around a year prior to that one?”
Nodding his head, “It did,” Heath admits, “Why?”
“Because,” Jack brings up, “Once about a year prior to that I recall myself feeling that way again and I felt that way on one other occasion which would’ve been around maybe 11-12 years prior to that one. Not sure of the exact time frame on that one though.”
Curiously “What happened?” Nick asks.
“I became very sick,” Jack notes, “I didn’t understand anything or could explain it but for a little while when each of those incidences came up somehow it affected me.”
“In what way?” Jarrod inquires.
“I would have this strange sensation,” Jack recalls, “Inside of my head,” pointing to his forehead “I would get these bizarre headaches and all of a sudden I would lose consciousness for a second or two.”
“You mean like black out?” Nick inquires.
“Yeah,” Jack answers, “Even the doctor they had come out to see me couldn’t find anything wrong. I would feel nausea and lightheaded but the doctor kept saying I looked fine and just to keep an eye on me.”
“I remember that,” Linda says.
“So do I,” Jim notes.
“And yet,” Jack brings up, “A couple weeks later the strange sensation or sick feeling I had went away completely and I felt fine.”
As Jack discloses his memory of that time, “That is funny,” Nick says.
“What’s that?” Jim asks.
“His mentioning of how he was sick,” Nick says, “Around the time Heath was, it never dawned on me before now but I remember I wasn’t feeling well at that time either.”
“I remember that,” Jarrod notes, “One of the times we were in school and we were playing in the yard and all of a sudden you felt lightheadedness and then you said your head hurt but then a minute later you said you were fine.”
“Now looking back,” Nick continues, “Each of those times it hit me without warning and all I saw was this strange darkness followed by the quick headache. I never could explain it but then it would go away as quickly as it came, just like Jack’s. And like Jack all three times it hit me without warning and for all three times it would pass several weeks later with the sick feeling going completely away and I would feel fine.”
“And I remember,” Jarrod brings up, “The last time it occurred I was in San Francisco working on a court case when all of a sudden I had this feeling inside of my head about Nick, something told me to come back to Stockton because something was troubling him.”
“And when you did,” Jim notes, “You found out nothing was wrong with him.”
“Right,” Jarrod replies, “And yet I knew there was something troubling him. Why,” he counters to Jim, “Did something happen to you?”
“Yes,” Jim says, “Something similar to you I was down in Florida working and then all of a sudden I got this feeling without warning that I needed to catch a train to Denver because Jack was in trouble. And yet when I came there he too was fine.”
“What does all this mean?” Maureen asks.
“Not sure,” Jim replies.
“Not sure either,” Jarrod says, “But maybe for some reason at the time Heath lost consciousness just prior to Warren coming to rescue him, both Jack and Nick were somehow tuned into Heath and at the time just didn’t know it, seeing we didn’t even know about Heath at that time.”
“And,” Jim brings up, “It also happened on the two other occasions as well.”
“You’re right about that,” Jarrod replies, “It did,” glancing over at Heath, “And each of those times I seem to remember they always seemed to be around this time of the year springtime.”
“That’s right,” Nick mentions, “It was.”
“And,” Jarrod continues, “One of those times I didn’t think about it at the time but the one prior to this one must’ve been at the time you were being held and rescued from Carterson.”
“Carterson?” both Jim and Jack mimic in unison.
“He was being held prisoner there,” Jarrod mentions.
“What was he doing in there?” Jim asks.
“Long story” Jarrod says, “Something” once again looking over at Heath who begins looking away as he resumes “He is not ready to divulge just of yet to too many.”
“Very well,” Jim replies.
“We won’t push it then,” Jack says.
Also glancing over at Heath “Good idea. But do you know” Nick brings up “For a long time it bothered me each of those times these incidents occurred. We didn’t even know about Heath at the time and yet I kept wondering why I felt the way I did and just didn’t have any explanation for it.”
“Same here,” Jack reiterates, “I would feel tingly too but about two weeks later the feeling I had went right out of my system and I was normal again, but I kept wondering what it was that happened however I wasn’t able to get any answers to it, so I eventually stopped wondering about it seeing I had no way of finding out the answer, until now.”
“That is how I felt,” Nick says, “With you triggering it now brought it back to me and now it gives me an explanation of what it was I had.”
“Sort of a strange vision,” Jarrod notes, “Of what happened to Heath, you just didn’t know it at the time.”
“Right,” Nick replies.
“And for some reason,” Jim brings up, “While Jack and Nick were tuned into Heath some how I was tuned into Jack while Jarrod was tuned into Nick and not knowing anything at the time but whenever something hit them it hit us too.”
“Just like” Jarrod mentions, “How you get those premonitions telling you,” glancing over at Nick, “That something is about to happen. It had you feeling the hard pain that Heath was feeling or dealing with.”
“I was just thinking of that,” Nick tells him.
Smiling “Great minds think alike, once again,” Jarrod notes.
Returning the smile “I guess so,” Nick remarks.
“I guess it shows,” Jack brings up, “Just how much of a Barkley we all truly are.”
“Indeed yes,” Jim replies, “We share so much more in common than we thought.”
“It shows how we’re all connected to one another,” Jack continues.
“It shows,” Jim says, “The closeness that keeps us together.”
“Or rather keeps us bonded together,” Nick notes.
“So true,” Jarrod replies, “But until now we just never knew just how close.”
“Or by just how far,” Jim brings up.
“Or,” Jarrod continues, “By how much.”
Turning his attention to the Barkleys seated around the table and joining the conversation, “I guess it makes,” Heath brings up, “What being a true Barkley is all about.”
“Glad you were able to join us,” Nick states with a smile.
Returning the gesture, “So am I” Heath admits.
“I was worried about you for a second,” Nick says.
“I’m alright,” Heath replies, “It’s just that all this is so…I don’t know…” stopping.
Finishing the sentence for him “Overwhelming?” Nick asks.
With his brow furrowed in thought “Yeah,” Heath replies, “So much in such a short period of time.”
“Well Cousin Heath,” Jack notes, “I guess it shows and proves that we all connect to the Barkley higher above.”
“Yes,” Jarrod says, “I think we all carry that trait.”
“Agreed,” Jim replies, “And when something affects one of us it somehow affects all of us just in different ways.”
“Or should we say,” Jack quips, “It hits or strikes us without warning.”
“That is so true,” Nick says.
“Like a bolt of lightning,” Jack adds.
“Indeed yes,” Nick replies.
“I suppose,” Heath smiles, “We should say ‘Amen’ to that.”
“Amen,” each of the Barkley siblings recites as they each return the gesture, as they pick up their juice glasses and clang them together in unison.
While the train is continuing on towards Stockton Jim walking in the Stockton National Bank catches sight of Mr. Thistleman seated at his desk goes up to him and after informing him about his sons arriving around noon with the document needed to withdraw the money out of the bank he is to have it ready for him with the proper sequence of dollars as requested by the kidnappers.
Assuring him he will have it ready for him when he returns but won’t be turning it over to him until he sees the document giving him right to it they both get up and after agreeing to it and shaking hands Jim walks out of the bank.
Meanwhile, back on board the train while the men folk are still gathered in the far car still talking in between them drinking their coffee the womenfolk and the children have left to return to their seats in the first car.
Beginning discussion of the trouble that is coming up in San Francisco with their mother being possibly kidnapped “So,” Heath brings up, “Where do we begin? If Mother has indeed been kidnapped how are we going to find her and rescue her?”
“If she has been kidnapped,” Jim says, “We will need a plan of action.”
“Agreed,” Nick replies.
“First things first,” Jarrod says, “We need to find out what we’re up against so that we don’t want to make any mistakes.”
“Agreed,” Heath replies, “And if I recall San Francisco is a pretty big place. As you mentioned Jarrod we can’t just waltz into San Francisco and get her out as easily as we could if she was being held in Stockton or even Strawberry.”
“That is true we can’t,” Jarrod says.
“Heath,” Nick brings up, “You’ve been to San Francisco before?”
“I have,” Heath admits.
“I didn’t know that,” Nick tells him.
“It was just the one time,” Heath says, “Don’t remember exactly when and I don’t remember it well. I just remember the water and the various buildings alongside the board walk I think it’s called. It would’ve been around one of the times I was just wandering on my own and just found myself there.”
“We need to discuss that sometime,” Nick informs him, “But in any case until we do get there we do need to come up with something.”
“Agreed,” Jarrod says, “And as soon as we reach Stockton hopefully Gene will be meeting us and filling us in on what is going on so we know what we’re up against when we get to San Francisco.”
“Right,” Nick replies.
“IF Mother has been kidnapped,” Heath reiterates, “We need to find out who indeed has her and what their demands are.”
“Exactly,” Jarrod says.
“When we get to San Francisco,” Nick brings up, “Hopefully Ed will be able to fill us in on what they are using to negotiate the conditions with.”
“Now,” Jarrod says, “You’re talking.”
“We’ll also be needing the men to somehow get to San Francisco,” Nick brings up.
“We could help with that,” Jack offers.
“That would be a huge help,” Nick informs them, “Get a hold of Duke.”
“We’ll do that,” Jim replies.
Part 389
“So,” Jarrod says, “Let’s see what we have so far.”
“Well,” Jim brings up, “We do know that somehow they want a large sum of money seeing Father had us draw money out of the banks and had Jack go back to the house and get the money he had from the safe which means that if it is a kidnapping they are looking for the ransom.”
“But,” Jack brings up, “He must need a larger amount than what we’re bringing with us.”
“Why do you say that?” Jarrod asks.
“Because,” Jack says “He asked me to bring this here document with me,” pulling out the envelope that contains the power of attorney in it.
“Let me see that,” Jarrod asks and as takes it from Jack and opens it he sees what it entails with Nick looking on with him.
“I wonder just how much,” Nick brings up, “More they want?”
“Not sure,” Jarrod says, “But if he had him bring this document with him that must mean he may need something more than the 20,000 between the two of them.”
“Like,” Heath asks, “All of what is in the bank?”
“It’s quite possible,” Jarrod says, “And this little piece of paper gives Uncle Jim the rights to it.”
“What is that?” Heath asks.
“It’s a document,” Jarrod says, “That Father and Uncle Jim must’ve had drawn up together long ago in case something did happen to Father which entitles Uncle Jim to the rights of anything that belongs to Father. This piece of paper is a legal document in the eyes of the court that is called a Power of Attorney. It acts or protects anything of ours and where we may have no claim or right to; this piece of paper gives or grants Uncle Jim the right to it.”
“Including money,” Nick brings up, “Needed from the bank if they are requiring one of us to sign for it and if we’re not there to do so grants him the right to do that as well.”
“Not only that, but it also gives” Jarrod says “Uncle Jim the rights to anything Barkley.”
“That must mean,” Heath brings up, “What he meant as Ace in the hole.”
Smiling, “That it does Brother Heath,” Jarrod informs him.
“And this piece of paper,” Nick brings up, “Could very well help us with other issues.”
“Yes, it can,” Jarrod says “And we’ll get to them as the time comes up for it.”
“What do we do in the meantime,” Heath asks.
“In the meantime,” Nick says, “How about us going back up front so you could get back to your rest?”
“I’m alright,” Heath whines.
“No,” Nick says, “You were supposed to be resting as much as possible.”
“Nick’s right Heath,” Jarrod adding his voice to Nick’s, “We promised the doctor you would be resting.”
“Maybe,” Nick suggests, “We should have you return to the house with Jack and Jim when we arrive in Stockton.”
“No,” Heath protests, “I want to find out what’s going on with Mother too.”
“Very well then,” Nick says, “Let’s get back to our seats then,” leading the way out of the car with a reluctant Heath and Jarrod in tow.
In San Francisco
Missionary
While engaged in a card game Earl looking over at Ma Parker who is staring out the window asks, “Ma, is something wrong?”
Letting out a sigh “Wrong” Ma says “What could possibly be wrong?”
“Don’t know,” Earl replies, “Looks like something’s on your mind. Is there? Like maybe you’re thinking of what we will be doing with the money once we get it?”
“Yeah” Ma tells him “Like being caught and perhaps twenty years a piece or more.”
“What you want us to do Ma?” Lance asks, “You’re the brains of this operation whatever you say goes?”
“Ma,” Earl asks, “What do you want us to do? The 72 hours is almost here.”
Sighing, “Yes I know,” Ma replies “Bring me Mrs. Barkley.”
Quickly getting up they cross to the kitchen and upon opening the cellar door Earl followed by Lance go down the stairs.
Stockton
At school as it is reaching noontime Eugene followed by Audra gets up from their seats. Mrs. Stevens standing in front of the class asks Eugene and Audra where they are going to which Eugene replies, “We have to go do something; we’ll be back in a few minutes,” and not waiting for a response from the teacher they just quickly go out the door and head down the street.
In San Francisco
While Terry is still working on the bar of the window trying to get it to loosen up he is exerting all his strength with the men and Victoria idly watching him until hearing the sound of footsteps moving in their direction, “Hey,” Paul calls out, “Someone’s coming.”
“You better stop Terry,” Ferdinand recommends as they hear the footsteps outside the cellar door come to a complete halt.
Stopping what he is doing and quickly taking a seat on the cold floor the door opens and as the door opens, “Come with us,” Earl barks at Victoria.
“Where to” Victoria asks.
“Where you taking her to” Vernon inquires.
“That’s not of your concern” Earl says, “Now, let’s get moving.”
Doing as instructed Victoria leaves the cellar with Earl and Lance who are walking her up the far stairwell.
Returning to the front room Lance calls out “Ma! Here she is!”
“Well Mrs. Barkley,” Ma says while holding a pool stick in her hand, “You probably wondered why I sent for you?”
As she is standing before her, “The thought did occur to me,” Victoria notes.
“I wanted to let you know,” Ma says, “That it is almost 72 hours. You’re probably wondering what that means?”
“I’m sure you will tell me,” Victoria notes.
“You’re a pretty smart woman, Mrs. Barkley,” Ma says.
“I try to be,” Victoria quips.
“Well,” Ma goes on and says, “72 hours means that is the amount of time I gave your son to gather up the money requested. Pretty soon, we will be informing him of how we are going to want it delivered to us. If they follow each and every instruction to the letter and we get what we asked for without any problems you may be set free and get to see your family again before long. If they in anyway should louse it up then you’re days on this here Earth will be almost over with. As soon as we get more information we will fill you in as they come up; any questions?”
“Can’t think of any,” Victoria says, “Besides anything I bring up I am sure you won’t listen to.”
“And,” Ma replies, “You are probably correct,” glancing over at her eldest son, “Lance. Return her.”
As he grabs hold of her arm, “Come on,” he barks to her as she complies without any problems.
“I need the brains,” Ma says, “You think it takes brains to hold onto a woman while waiting for $50,000 to come our way; after we get it then what?”
“We could always leave here,” Earl replies.
“And where would we go?” Ma asks.
“We could leave here and,” Earl suggests, “Maybe go to Canada.”
“Canada?” Ma says, “What would we do in Canada?”
“We could start a whole new life for ourselves,” Earl insists, “Have a clean slate.”
Walking in, overhearing “Earl has a point Ma,” Lance brings up, “No one will ever know we were tied to this here place or have any reason to hold anything over our heads.”
“What we do with that woman downstairs?” Ma asks, “And the shipment coming in on Saturday?”
“We wait for it to arrive,” Lance says, “And then after we finish we just up and go.”
“But,” Ma brings up, “Don’t the two of you ever feel like you want to do something on your own?”
“What for?” Earl asks, “We’re doing alright and once we get the 50,000 split three ways that’ll be over 16,000 a piece, that aint half bad and we could get a couple new spreads with that and we could very well indeed start over.”
“Not to mention,” Lance brings up, “A little more pocket change that we will be raking in on Saturday from the men downstairs.”
“You call that good?” Ma asks, “When we get it then what? And what do we do with Mrs. Barkley?”
“We could let her go,” Earl suggests.
“Don’t be a fool Earl,” Ma tells him, “Do you think we could let her go once we get it?”
“She doesn’t know where we are” Earl mentions “At the moment.”
“But she knows what we look like,” Ma informs them, “And it won’t take long before someone places us with her. They will have a posse everywhere out there looking for us.”
“Do you want us to dispose of her?” Lance asks.
“No!” Ma informs them, “At least not yet. We still may need her.”
“We could always take her with us,” Lance suggests, “As a hostage until we reach the border or drop her someplace between here and there.”
“Take her with us?” Ma mimics.
“What else are we to do with her?” Earl asks, “It’s either take her with us or dispose of her either way they’ll be coming looking for us once they find out.”
“But,” Lance notes, “If we take her with us and just drop her off and get caught we will be getting hit less than if we were to dispose of her.”
“Lance is right Ma,” Earl says, “If we dispose of her we could be looking at a noose around our necks instead of just time in some prison cell. And we’re also dealing with a woman who is not just any woman but a woman that people know.”
Letting out another deep sigh, “Let me think on that one,” Ma says, “And right now I think it’s time one of you delivered the rules of how they are to play it.”
“I’ll do it Ma,” Lance replies.
“Why you?” Earl asks.
“Because I called it,” Lance says, “And besides I am better at delivering the note than you are.”
“You are not” Earl disputes.
“I am so,” Lance says.
“That’s enough boys,” Ma calls out, “And Lance you will deliver the note. Just make it snappy and be sure you’re not spotted.”
Taking the note and placing it in his pocket “Be back before it’s time for dinner,” Lance replies.
As he is exiting the room, “See that you are,” Earl tells him.
Stockton
As the train is coming towards the station, “We’re here,” Jarrod announces.
“Here,” Jack and Jim say, “This might stall them until we are able to get there with the rest,” handing Jarrod the envelopes containing the money in them.
“Good idea,” Jarrod replies.
As Jarrod takes the envelopes Uncle Jim is waiting patiently as the train pulls in.
Leaving the school and hearing the whistle blowing “It’s coming,” Audra shouts to Gene who says, “We better hurry,” and picking up speed they run towards the train which is now coming to a complete stop; Gene who is out of breath with Audra in tow watch as people begin piling out of the train.
While Jim and Jack grab the suitcases, Maureen and Linda swoop up Benny and Katie with Brandon, J.J. Jimmy and Jason walking alongside of them and upon catching sight of Jim standing there the boys call out, “Grandpa,” who is ready to assist with carrying little Jimmy as they are exiting the car.
“Here’s the envelop you requested,” Jack informs Jim.
Taking it “Thank goodness,” Uncle Jim says.
“I hope we’re in time Father,” Jack mentions.
“Let’s get moving,” Uncle Jim says, “We don’t have any time to spare.”
“Right,” Jack replies.
“Maureen,” Jim Jr. says, “We’ll be right back.”
“We’ll be here,” Maureen mentions as she and Linda wait patiently with the children and suitcases before them.
As passengers board or pile out they don’t notice Jarrod, Heath or Nick who is calling out to Gene and Audra who quickly follows them to the second car and board, “Nick, Jarrod,” Gene followed by Audra says as they are catching their breaths from running so far and so fast, “Heath!” Audra then asks, “What happened?”
“Never mind at the moment,” Nick says, “What’s going on?”
“Gene,” Jarrod asks, “What’s going on? We got your wire.”
“I was hoping you did,” Gene replies, “Mother has been taken hostage.”
“Just what we figured,” Heath says.
“Damn!” Nick barks.
“What’s the conditions?” Jarrod asks “Did they give any?”
“Uncle Jim,” Gene replies, “Is gathering the money being requested.”
“How much?” Nick asks, “Are we talking?”
“They’ve asked,” Audra says, “For 50,000.”
“We’re waiting on,” Gene brings up, “Jim and Jack to come with the rest of what is needed.”
“They’re here,” Nick mentions.
“They’re here?” Gene mumbles.
“They happened to be on the train with us,” Jarrod then asks, “What else can you tell us?”
“They gave us,” Gene mentions, “72 hours to get it together.”
“When was the note delivered?” Jarrod wanted to know.
“They,” Gene brings up, “Somehow took Mother on Friday night leaving the note.”
“Bill came with it on Saturday morning,” Audra informs them.
“Jarrod,” Gene mentions, “We’re so worried about Mother.”
“I know you are,” Jarrod says, “But we’re going to San Francisco now as soon as we get there we’ll find her. Just hang in there” placing his hand on his shoulder.
Hearing the sound of the whistle, “You better go,” Nick tells them.
“We’ll wire you,” Jarrod mentions, “As soon as we know something more.”
“Come on Gene,” Audra says with worried faces Gene and Audra exit the train watching as Heath, Jarrod and Nick also have equally concerned faces.
tbc
“Here’s the other wire,” Jack shows him, “That I picked up when I arrived in Denver.”
Taking it, Jarrod reads out loud, “Jack…five of hearts…Joker in the box…look for Ace…have a safe trip…see you when you arrive…Father.”
“What does it mean?” Jarrod asks.
“It’s a code,” Jack mentions, “It’s something Father, Jim and I developed a long time ago that in case there is trouble and didn’t want anyone outside of us knowing what it said especially when it comes through a wire and never knowing who might read it.”
“Very clever,” Jarrod says, “And ingenious idea.”
“Father thought it up,” Jack replies, “And it’s a good way to write when you don’t want anyone else but us really understanding what it says.”
“Yes it is” Jarrod admits “But could you do me a favor and decipher it for me? Let me know what it says?”
“Certainly,” Jack says, “It says,” decoding it for him, “Five of hearts meaning $5,000.00; go to Denver means going to the house, Joker in the box means there’s an envelope with money inside of the safe that is hidden behind the picture frame inside the gun room, Ace in the hole means the envelope that contains the power of attorney documents that for some reason is needed and he wanted me to get and bring with me to Stockton.”
“Why would he need $5,000.00?” Jarrod asks of Jack.
“Not sure,” Jack replies, “I just did as requested. It must be something important otherwise he wouldn’t have said urgently or emergency.”
“No,” Jarrod says, “You’re right. You said Jim got one too?”
“Yes,” Jack replies, “Come with me,” and as Jarrod goes with Jack he is taken to the next car and upon going down the aisle he catches sight of Jack’s wife Linda and their children.
“You brought your family with you?” Jarrod asks.
“Yes,” Jack replies, “We didn’t know how long we were gonna be in Stockton for and just in case we’re there longer than necessary I thought it best we go together.”
“Good thinking,” Jarrod replies.
“Jim,” Jack points out, “Did the same thing” going down to the next row of seats, “Linda, Jim,” he calls out, “Look who’s here!”
As they both look up, “Jarrod,” Jim and Linda both reply simultaneously, “Jarrod is that you?” Jim asks.
“It is,” Jarrod replies.
“It’s been a long time,” Jim says quickly as he gets up and takes hold of Jarrod’s hand into his.
“Yes it has,” Jarrod notes.
“You haven’t changed at all,” Linda says simultaneously.
“How you’ve been?” Jim asks of Jarrod.
Jarrod replies, “I’ve been doing well.”
“Mama,” J.J asks, “Who is that?”
“That is your cousin Jarrod,” Linda points out.
“He looks like Papa,” Brandon says.
“Yes he does,” Maureen replies.
“What are you doing here?” Jim asks.
“We’ll get to that in a moment,” Jarrod replies, “I understand you have a wire.”
“Show him the wire,” Jack says, “You got from Father.”
Taking it from out of his pocket “Here” Jim replies handing it to Jarrod.
After reading it, “Let me go show these to Nick,” Jarrod says.
“Nick is here with you?” Jim asks.
“Yes,” Jarrod replies, “And so is Heath.”
“Who’s Heath?” Brandon asks.
“Our brother,” Jarrod mentions, “And your cousin.”
“I heard of him,” Jim mentions.
“So have I,” Jack acknowledges.
“But you didn’t see him yet,” Jarrod notes, “Come with me, you need to meet him.”
As Linda and Maureen get up to go with Jack and Jim, Jarrod offers to help with carrying one of the children in which Maureen graciously hands him Benny while she holds onto Brandon and J.J’s hand with Linda carrying little Katie, Jim carrying Jimmy and Jack carrying little Jason.
As they pass through the second car and reach the third car, “Nick,” Jarrod calls out, “Nick, look who’s here. Look who I found while getting blankets.”
With a puzzling expression “Jack,” Nick says, “Jim?” getting up out of his seat.
As they quickly exchange hugs and hellos “What are you all doing here?” Nick asks.
Angie calls out, “Debbie, look at that man” referring to Jim, “He looks like Jarrod.”
“What about the other one,” Debbie says, “He looks like Heath.”
“Talk about being a spitting image of someone” the mother notes.
“So true,” comes from the father.
“Long story,” Jim says.
Jarrod then calls out “Heath?” shaking him slightly “You need to meet someone.”
Mumbling “Hmm?” Heath opens his eyes.
“Heath,” Jarrod continues, “This here is your cousin Jack and your cousin Jim” introducing them.
Staring at Heath lying there “I don’t believe it,” Jim replies.
“You don’t believe it?” Jack asks.
“This is so incredible,” Linda says.
“Fascinating,” Maureen replies, “Is what it is.”
“Well,” Nick says, “I’ll be.”
“I must admit,” Jim says, “It has been awhile since we’ve seen one another.”
“Yes, it has,” Nick replies.
“Not that long ago,” Jack says, “What’s it been?”
“Before your father passed away,” Jim notes, “We didn’t get to come to the services due to Benny just being born.”
“Nor did we” Jack adds “Due to Katie just about to be born.”
“Right,” Nick replies, “And the last time I seen you (Jack) was (thinking) must’ve been shortly after you got married to Linda.”
“Yes,” Jack says, “Talk about just how long it’s been.”
“I guess,” Nick notes, “It has been longer than we thought. I never knew just how much you look like Heath.”
“Must’ve came with age,” Jim notes, “Or maturity.”
“Could be,” Nick remarks.
“Mama,” J.J. brings up, “That man looks like Papa.”
“Yes, he does,” Linda replies.
“I must say” as Heath is getting up, “I didn’t know that either,” Jack states as he and Heath are staring at the other in total awe with Heath saying, “It looks like I’m looking at myself.”
“Same here Heath,” Jack notes.
As he looks at Jarrod to Jim, “Not to mention the picture of Jim,” Heath brings up, “But I never knew that the likeness of Jarrod to Jim is so…strange…so similar…and yet so….” stopping and thinking of what he wanted to say “…alike.”
“What about you to Jack, Heath,” Jarrod says, “You look very much like he does, except you being a few years younger.”
“That is what I mean,” Heath replies, “Looking at Jack and looking at myself or looking at both you and Jim, it’s so…I don’t know…bizarre.”
“Not bizarre,” Maureen replies, “How about more like uncanny, each of you looks so much like the other except as Jarrod pointed out being a few years younger.”
“Indeed yes,” Linda says, “It has always been said that we all have a double, a twin.”
“Well,” Nick replies, “If Jack was a few years younger and Heath was a few years older it’s quite possible, not to mention the same going for Jarrod and Jim.”
“No question about it,” Maureen says.
“I must say,” Jack brings up, “It’s funny looking at a picture of myself.”
“Yes,” Jim says, “You and Heath are definitely a spitting image of one another.”
Jim and Jack go on introducing the children and their wives to each of the siblings and after they’ve finished reciprocating and exchanging hellos, “Katie,” Heath points out, “Looks a little like Audra when she was that small.”
“Yes,” Jarrod replies, “She sure does.”
“What about J.J here,” Nick says gently patting him on the head, “He looks a little like the picture we seen of you when you were little.”
“That he does,” Jarrod points out, “And we could definitely see the resemblance.”
“Too bad,” Nick notes, “We didn’t see it sooner.”
“Agreed,” Jarrod responds.
“Heath,” Jack says, “Could I ask what happened to your arm?” noticing it in a sling.
Grabbing hold of it, “I had a little accident,” Heath informs him.
“It was more than an accident Heath,” Nick then asks, “But speaking of which, you (glancing up at Jarrod) said you met them in the back?”
“They’re on their way to our place,” Jarrod says.
“Our place?” Nick asks mystified, “Why?”
“Nick,” Jarrod then says, “Look at the wire they got.”
Taking them from Jarrod and upon reading the first one he sees it saying: “Jack…urgent…5 of hearts…go to Denver…more instructions to follow…emergency…” then turning to the second one he sees it saying the same as the first one except “Jim…urgent…5 of hearts…Stockton…emergency,” and then looking at the last one reads, “Jack…five of hearts…Joker in the box…look for Ace…have a safe trip…see you when you arrive…Father.”
Glancing up at them, “What does all this mean?” Nick inquires.
“It’s a code, Nick” Jack mentions, “Father wrote it to us that way so that only we know what it says.”
“Well,” Nick replies, “Explain it to me.”
“We don’t know all the details,” Jim mentions, “But for whatever reason there is behind it Father needs money. Five of hearts is meaning $5,000.00.”
“That means,” Nick brings up, “You both have $5,000.00 on you?”
“Yes,” Jim answers.
“Father,” Jack adds, “Wanted me to go to Denver and grab the money that he had as well as the envelope he had hidden inside the safe behind the picture frame inside the gun room.”
“What envelope?” Nick asks.
“The one containing,” Jack explains, “The power of attorney documents and one that contained money he had in there. He then wanted me to bring them with me to Stockton.”
“So,” Nick says, “With you both bringing $5,000.00 to Stockton, how much does he have in the envelope?”
“$10,000.00,” Jack answers.
“$10,000.00,” Nick says, “So, if you both have $5.000.00 on you and you went to get an envelope from your father’s safe which has $10,000.00 that means you have $20,000.00 between the both of you.”
“That is correct,” Jack replies.
“Why would Uncle Jim need that much money?” Nick asks.
“If we go back,” Heath joins in, “To the wires both Ed and Gene sent they said trouble in San Francisco-Mother and your presence here is needed it must mean somehow money is needed and the only thing I could think of why they would need so much money in so short of time would be maybe someone having or holding Mother for ransom?”
“That’s what I’ve been thinking Heath,” Jarrod says.
“Damn!” Nick lets out.
“Settle down Nick,” Jarrod informs him.
“Settle down?” Nick says.
“Yes,” Jarrod replies, “You need to calm down.”
“How can I calm down?” Nick asks.
“You have to,” Jarrod says, “And you need to stop jumping to conclusions. We don’t even know if that’s what it’s all about yet. Right now, we are just merely speculating.”
“But what if it is?” Heath asks.
“If it is,” Jarrod notes, “We first need to find out first what we’re up against. Find out more about what is going on. When we get to Stockton hopefully Gene will meet us and when the train pulls in he could fill us in on more of what is going on. We’ll then need a plan of action. We just can’t go down to San Francisco just like that,” snapping his fingers, “It’s a big city. The best thing we could do for now is wait.”
“How can you be so calm,” Nick says.
“Because,” Jarrod replies, “One of us has to be and seeing you are too fired up at the moment and one of us needs to have a clear head that job falls upon me.”
“But,” Heath says, “If she has been kidnapped how are we gonna find her?”
“We’ll find her Heath,” Jarrod replies, “But let’s take one thing at a time.”
“Well,” Nick says, “Until we could get to her she better be alright and if someone does have her they will be sorry. She better not be harmed.”
“Nick,” Jarrod brings up, “That is another thing we do have to think of a plan because going in there without one could be dangerous to her. If we want to get her out safely and alive we have to be completely ready.”
Running his right fist into his open left hand, “Well,” Nick tells him, “I’m ready.”
“Yes,” Jarrod replies, “I know you are. But you’re not going to do any good being too fired up.”
“What do we do in the meantime?” Heath asks.
“It is late” Jim suggests “How about we all turning in?”
“I think that to be wise,” Jarrod says, “Seeing we can’t do much now and we won’t be in Stockton until noon I think it’ll do us some good.”
“I think that’s a good idea,” Jack replies, “And in the morning once we’ve all wakened up and had a good hot breakfast we could get more acquainted.”
“So do I” Linda agrees.
“Sorry,” Jim says, “If we are meeting under insinuating circumstances Heath.”
“Insinuating?” Heath mimics.
“He means,” Nick translates, “Not the best circumstances.”
“That is okay,” Heath replies, “I understand.”
“I don’t know if I could sleep,” Nick brings up, “I am too fired up.”
“Try anyway Nick,” Jarrod insists, “We do need to think of a plan and we could think better on a clearer head.”
“I’ll be right back,” Jack says, “I’m gonna get the blankets.”
“Here,” Jarrod says, “I’ll come with you,” and while the rest of the family gets settled into the empty seats that are in that section of the train Jarrod goes with Jack to bring back blankets for everyone.
Part 387
As the train continues on its way heading for Stockton all the passengers on board start falling asleep with Heath occupying two seats together so that he is able to be in a much more comfortable position the younger children are situated between each of their parents with Jarrod and Nick assisting with the two older ones allowing them to be in between them.
5 am
Barkley Ranch
As morning approaches at the ranch each member of the family awakens and after they finish getting ready they meet for breakfast in the dining room. Finishing up Tina and Chrissy helps with the clean up while Audra and Gene grab their school books, their lunch and their horses and head for town.
6:30 am
As the train pulls into the Sacramento Train Station many of the passengers get off there including the family that was talking to the Barkleys that they met at Floyd’s Relay station. Once a few passengers get on board the train blows the whistle and begins pulling away from the station.
Stockton
Reaching the livery and as they are handing their horses over to Pete they hear the bell go off, “There’s the bell,” Audra announces.
“We’ll see you later Pete,” Gene tells him as he and Audra begin running to the school.
Upon reaching the bottom step they are met by 14 year old Jamie who hands Gene a wire who asks, “What’s this?”
“It just came in,” Jamie replies, “I was asked to bring it to you.”
“Thank you,” Gene tells him.
As Jamie goes up the stairs, “What does it say?” Audra asks.
Upon reading it, “It says,” Gene iterates, “Train coming in at 12 noon. Meet us when it arrives…We’ll talk then…Jarrod.”
“They’re on their way back,” Audra brings up, “They must’ve got your wire.”
“Thank goodness,” Gene replies.
“Come on,” Audra then says, “We don’t want to be late.”
Placing the wire in his pocket Gene and Audra resume going up the stairs to the classroom.
Back on the train as it is hitting a little after 8:30 the Barkley family begin waking up from their sleep. Coming over to them, “Do you want to join us?” Jim asks as little J.J and Brandon get up out of their seats, “We’re going to have some breakfast.”
“We’ll be right there,” Jarrod tells him as he stretches and yawns. Glancing back at Heath, “How’d’you sleep Heath?” Jarrod asks of him who replies, “Not bad.”
Glancing over at Nick, “But in between I could hear Nick in and out as I was,” he brings up.
“Sorry about that Heath,” Nick says, “But I had too much on my mind.”
“I know you did,” Heath replies.
“You should’ve tried Nick,” Jarrod tells him.
“I did try,” Nick sternly answers, “But every time I tried closing my eyes I kept having Mother on my mind and the large amount of money that is needed.”
“You know Heath,” Jarrod brings up, “If you could hear Nick in and out then you must not have been sleeping too good yourself.”
“What about you?” Heath inquires, “How did you sleep?”
“The same” Jarrod answers “As the two of you.”
“You must’ve had the same thing on your mind,” Heath replies, “That we did.”
“And I did,” Jarrod then says, “How’s your arm?”
“Doing alright” Heath answers.
Taking hold of his arm and examining it “Sore?” Nick asks.
“Maybe just a tad,” Heath sheepishly answers, “We better go join the others.”
Replying, “Good idea” Jarrod gets up and goes with Nick and Heath to the far car.
In Stockton
Arriving to town, Jim Barkley makes a stop at the telegraph office and upon picking up the two wires that came in he sees one is from Jack and the other is from Jim both informing him they have what is requested and will be arriving in Stockton at 12 noon with the information.
Back on board the train as the three brothers enter the far car they are greeted by the rest of the family. Joining them around the table, they begin eating their breakfast while discussing various topics.
Heath first brings up his living in Strawberry followed by his arrival to the ranch in Stockton.
Then moving onto other topics Heath asks of them, “Seeing we are alike in various ways, Jack, are you a rancher like I am?”
“That I am Heath,” Jack admits.
“And you live in Texas?” Heath asks.
“I do,” Jack answers.
“Jim,” Heath inquires, “I understand you live in Florida.”
“That is correct,” Jim states.
“Are you like Jarrod?” Heath asks, “A lawyer?”
“No,” Jim replies, “I am not a lawyer.”
“Are you a rancher like we are?” Heath asks.
“Partially,” Jim admits, “But I’m also a teacher and I work alongside of the animals in the ocean like the whales and the dolphin.”
“You live near the ocean?” Heath wonders.
“I do,” Jim replies, “I live at the very tip of it. I live in Tallahassee, the capital of the state.”
“So, I take it you have a ranch of your own?” Heath asks.
“I do” Jim replies “Although a portion of it is surrounded by water and the sea creatures that harbor it which is why I decided to work with them.”
“What exactly do you do?” Heath asks, “If you don’t mind my asking.”
“Not at all,” Jim replies, “I basically try to make sure they are safe from people and other harmful sea creatures in the ocean that may harm them, like the sharks. If one is injured I try to bring it to shore or close to shore as possible depending on the circumstances and help it get well and then once it is I return it back to its own original habitat.”
“Habitat?” Heath asks.
“He means,” Nick reiterates, “Return it to where it belongs; to his homeland.”
“I see,” Heath says, “It sounds very interesting.”
“Oh it is,” Jim admits, “It’s very rewarding there is nothing like being a part of their world. It’s so much more different than just raising cattle and the likes.”
“I’m sure it is,” Heath states.
“Could we ask” Jack brings up “What brought the three of you on board this train?”
“We just came or rather I should say we,” Jarrod answers, “Just left Echo Lake.”
“Echo Lake?” Jack asks, “Where is that?”
“North of here,” Jarrod replies, “Close to the Nevada border.”
“What brings you out so far like this?” Jim asks.
“Some of it has to do with me,” Heath explains.
“You?” Jim followed by Jack asks.
Replying “Yes,” Heath begins telling them about how he wound up in Echo Lake due to his being a prisoner at the Wheeler’s ranch.
“You were being held prisoner Heath?” Jack asks.
Nodding his head, “I was,” Heath admits.
“How did you become a prisoner there?” Jack asks.
“It’s a very long story,” Heath mentions, “But some of my being there was due to my uncle.”
“Your uncle?” Jack asks.
Nodding his head, “Yes,” Heath replies, “He set it up for me. He had me brought there.”
“Why?” Jim asks.
“He didn’t like me,” Heath says, “I don’t think I will ever know all of the reasons why but, all I know is he hated me so bad that he did everything he could in his power to keep me away from my mother and out of Strawberry. But thanks to the sheriff there he saved my life, thanks to him I am here now and thanks to him I am who I am now and because of him we went there to clear him of a murder charge he is being accused of, if that makes any sense.”
“It does,” Jim states, “Is Echo Lake far from Strawberry?”
“They are not far away,” Heath says, “But they are still a little bit of a distance from one another.”
“So your uncle had you go there?” Jack inquires.
“Uh-huh,” Heath replies.
“How long were you there?” Jim asks.
“Five months,” Heath answers.
“And how did the sheriff,” Jack asks, “Learn of you being there?”
“I don’t know all of it,” Heath states, “But there came a moment when we tried to escape.”
“Escape?” Jack mimics.
“Yeah,” Heath then says, “But as a result of us escaping or trying to escape I wasn’t so lucky” averting his eyes downward.
Watching as he begins getting shivery, “Heath,” Nick joins in, “Are you okay with this?”
Nodding his head “I’m alright with it” Heath replies.
As Jim looks over at Nick and then at Jarrod who both quietly shake their heads he then turns to Heath who is now looking out the window and says, “Heath, you don’t have to tell us if you don’t want to.”
“No,” Heath replies, “I’ll tell you.”
Placing his hand on his shoulder, “Take it easy Heath,” Nick tells him “It’s okay.”
Showing a smile at Nick, “I’m okay,” assuring him before looking away again and then after taking a deep breath he says “I” closing his eyes and then after swallowing hard continues “Was caught and punished for trying to escape,” glancing first at Jim and then at Jack and then back out the window, “The ones that did manage to get away made their way down to the sheriff’s office and after learning about what took place he came there and got the rest of us out of there.”
“You keeping saying,” Jim notes, “Us or we.”
“There were a lot of us,” Heath mentions, “That were being held.”
“How many is a lot?” Maureen wanted to know.
“There were many I don’t know the full count,” Heath says, “But it’s something the Wheelers did for a long time, long before I even came to there, but at the time I was being held there were 60.”
“Sixty?” both Maureen and Linda ask.
“Yes,” Heath replies.
“They had a habit,” Jarrod joins in, “Of imprisoning boys.”
“Heath,” Jim asks, “How long ago did this occur?”
“Five” Heath answers “Years ago.”
Noticing his youthful-looking face, “Did I hear you right Heath,” Jack asks, “You said this happened to you five years ago?”
“Yes,” Heath replies, “I don’t know all of it but I was so sick by the time the sheriff came and took us out of there. I didn’t even know anything else until I was in his house.”
“He was 13,” Jarrod joins in, “When he was brought there.”
“13?” Jim mimics.
“13,” Nick joins in.
“I find that very interesting Heath,” Jack brings up.
“What’s that?” Heath asks.
“Not how you met the sheriff in Echo Lake or that you went there to clear him of a murder” Jack mentions “But of you’re being a prisoner at the Wheeler’s ranch.”
“Why do you find that interesting?” Nick asks.
“Heath,” Jack brings up, “You said you were very sick when the sheriff took you out of there.”
“I was,” Heath replies, “I didn’t know anything until I woke up and saw him looking down at me.”
“So,” Jack says, “Somewhere’s between you trying to escape to you waking up and seeing the sheriff looking down at you, you must’ve blacked out.”
“I did,” Heath notes, “I just don’t know all of it.”
“Did you do that at any other time?” Jack asks, “Black out I mean?”
“Twice,” Heath answers, “Why?”
“You may find this weird or strange,” Jack mentions, “But it seems at the time you were being held, I find myself looking back and recalling something odd happening to me around that time and for a long time I didn’t understand it but now I think it’s beginning to.”
“What’s that?” Jarrod asks.
Part 388
“It happened to me on two other occasions as well which is why I asked that question.” Jack then asks, “Heath, did one of those other two times occur around a year prior to that one?”
Nodding his head, “It did,” Heath admits, “Why?”
“Because,” Jack brings up, “Once about a year prior to that I recall myself feeling that way again and I felt that way on one other occasion which would’ve been around maybe 11-12 years prior to that one. Not sure of the exact time frame on that one though.”
Curiously “What happened?” Nick asks.
“I became very sick,” Jack notes, “I didn’t understand anything or could explain it but for a little while when each of those incidences came up somehow it affected me.”
“In what way?” Jarrod inquires.
“I would have this strange sensation,” Jack recalls, “Inside of my head,” pointing to his forehead “I would get these bizarre headaches and all of a sudden I would lose consciousness for a second or two.”
“You mean like black out?” Nick inquires.
“Yeah,” Jack answers, “Even the doctor they had come out to see me couldn’t find anything wrong. I would feel nausea and lightheaded but the doctor kept saying I looked fine and just to keep an eye on me.”
“I remember that,” Linda says.
“So do I,” Jim notes.
“And yet,” Jack brings up, “A couple weeks later the strange sensation or sick feeling I had went away completely and I felt fine.”
As Jack discloses his memory of that time, “That is funny,” Nick says.
“What’s that?” Jim asks.
“His mentioning of how he was sick,” Nick says, “Around the time Heath was, it never dawned on me before now but I remember I wasn’t feeling well at that time either.”
“I remember that,” Jarrod notes, “One of the times we were in school and we were playing in the yard and all of a sudden you felt lightheadedness and then you said your head hurt but then a minute later you said you were fine.”
“Now looking back,” Nick continues, “Each of those times it hit me without warning and all I saw was this strange darkness followed by the quick headache. I never could explain it but then it would go away as quickly as it came, just like Jack’s. And like Jack all three times it hit me without warning and for all three times it would pass several weeks later with the sick feeling going completely away and I would feel fine.”
“And I remember,” Jarrod brings up, “The last time it occurred I was in San Francisco working on a court case when all of a sudden I had this feeling inside of my head about Nick, something told me to come back to Stockton because something was troubling him.”
“And when you did,” Jim notes, “You found out nothing was wrong with him.”
“Right,” Jarrod replies, “And yet I knew there was something troubling him. Why,” he counters to Jim, “Did something happen to you?”
“Yes,” Jim says, “Something similar to you I was down in Florida working and then all of a sudden I got this feeling without warning that I needed to catch a train to Denver because Jack was in trouble. And yet when I came there he too was fine.”
“What does all this mean?” Maureen asks.
“Not sure,” Jim replies.
“Not sure either,” Jarrod says, “But maybe for some reason at the time Heath lost consciousness just prior to Warren coming to rescue him, both Jack and Nick were somehow tuned into Heath and at the time just didn’t know it, seeing we didn’t even know about Heath at that time.”
“And,” Jim brings up, “It also happened on the two other occasions as well.”
“You’re right about that,” Jarrod replies, “It did,” glancing over at Heath, “And each of those times I seem to remember they always seemed to be around this time of the year springtime.”
“That’s right,” Nick mentions, “It was.”
“And,” Jarrod continues, “One of those times I didn’t think about it at the time but the one prior to this one must’ve been at the time you were being held and rescued from Carterson.”
“Carterson?” both Jim and Jack mimic in unison.
“He was being held prisoner there,” Jarrod mentions.
“What was he doing in there?” Jim asks.
“Long story” Jarrod says, “Something” once again looking over at Heath who begins looking away as he resumes “He is not ready to divulge just of yet to too many.”
“Very well,” Jim replies.
“We won’t push it then,” Jack says.
Also glancing over at Heath “Good idea. But do you know” Nick brings up “For a long time it bothered me each of those times these incidents occurred. We didn’t even know about Heath at the time and yet I kept wondering why I felt the way I did and just didn’t have any explanation for it.”
“Same here,” Jack reiterates, “I would feel tingly too but about two weeks later the feeling I had went right out of my system and I was normal again, but I kept wondering what it was that happened however I wasn’t able to get any answers to it, so I eventually stopped wondering about it seeing I had no way of finding out the answer, until now.”
“That is how I felt,” Nick says, “With you triggering it now brought it back to me and now it gives me an explanation of what it was I had.”
“Sort of a strange vision,” Jarrod notes, “Of what happened to Heath, you just didn’t know it at the time.”
“Right,” Nick replies.
“And for some reason,” Jim brings up, “While Jack and Nick were tuned into Heath some how I was tuned into Jack while Jarrod was tuned into Nick and not knowing anything at the time but whenever something hit them it hit us too.”
“Just like” Jarrod mentions, “How you get those premonitions telling you,” glancing over at Nick, “That something is about to happen. It had you feeling the hard pain that Heath was feeling or dealing with.”
“I was just thinking of that,” Nick tells him.
Smiling “Great minds think alike, once again,” Jarrod notes.
Returning the smile “I guess so,” Nick remarks.
“I guess it shows,” Jack brings up, “Just how much of a Barkley we all truly are.”
“Indeed yes,” Jim replies, “We share so much more in common than we thought.”
“It shows how we’re all connected to one another,” Jack continues.
“It shows,” Jim says, “The closeness that keeps us together.”
“Or rather keeps us bonded together,” Nick notes.
“So true,” Jarrod replies, “But until now we just never knew just how close.”
“Or by just how far,” Jim brings up.
“Or,” Jarrod continues, “By how much.”
Turning his attention to the Barkleys seated around the table and joining the conversation, “I guess it makes,” Heath brings up, “What being a true Barkley is all about.”
“Glad you were able to join us,” Nick states with a smile.
Returning the gesture, “So am I” Heath admits.
“I was worried about you for a second,” Nick says.
“I’m alright,” Heath replies, “It’s just that all this is so…I don’t know…” stopping.
Finishing the sentence for him “Overwhelming?” Nick asks.
With his brow furrowed in thought “Yeah,” Heath replies, “So much in such a short period of time.”
“Well Cousin Heath,” Jack notes, “I guess it shows and proves that we all connect to the Barkley higher above.”
“Yes,” Jarrod says, “I think we all carry that trait.”
“Agreed,” Jim replies, “And when something affects one of us it somehow affects all of us just in different ways.”
“Or should we say,” Jack quips, “It hits or strikes us without warning.”
“That is so true,” Nick says.
“Like a bolt of lightning,” Jack adds.
“Indeed yes,” Nick replies.
“I suppose,” Heath smiles, “We should say ‘Amen’ to that.”
“Amen,” each of the Barkley siblings recites as they each return the gesture, as they pick up their juice glasses and clang them together in unison.
While the train is continuing on towards Stockton Jim walking in the Stockton National Bank catches sight of Mr. Thistleman seated at his desk goes up to him and after informing him about his sons arriving around noon with the document needed to withdraw the money out of the bank he is to have it ready for him with the proper sequence of dollars as requested by the kidnappers.
Assuring him he will have it ready for him when he returns but won’t be turning it over to him until he sees the document giving him right to it they both get up and after agreeing to it and shaking hands Jim walks out of the bank.
Meanwhile, back on board the train while the men folk are still gathered in the far car still talking in between them drinking their coffee the womenfolk and the children have left to return to their seats in the first car.
Beginning discussion of the trouble that is coming up in San Francisco with their mother being possibly kidnapped “So,” Heath brings up, “Where do we begin? If Mother has indeed been kidnapped how are we going to find her and rescue her?”
“If she has been kidnapped,” Jim says, “We will need a plan of action.”
“Agreed,” Nick replies.
“First things first,” Jarrod says, “We need to find out what we’re up against so that we don’t want to make any mistakes.”
“Agreed,” Heath replies, “And if I recall San Francisco is a pretty big place. As you mentioned Jarrod we can’t just waltz into San Francisco and get her out as easily as we could if she was being held in Stockton or even Strawberry.”
“That is true we can’t,” Jarrod says.
“Heath,” Nick brings up, “You’ve been to San Francisco before?”
“I have,” Heath admits.
“I didn’t know that,” Nick tells him.
“It was just the one time,” Heath says, “Don’t remember exactly when and I don’t remember it well. I just remember the water and the various buildings alongside the board walk I think it’s called. It would’ve been around one of the times I was just wandering on my own and just found myself there.”
“We need to discuss that sometime,” Nick informs him, “But in any case until we do get there we do need to come up with something.”
“Agreed,” Jarrod says, “And as soon as we reach Stockton hopefully Gene will be meeting us and filling us in on what is going on so we know what we’re up against when we get to San Francisco.”
“Right,” Nick replies.
“IF Mother has been kidnapped,” Heath reiterates, “We need to find out who indeed has her and what their demands are.”
“Exactly,” Jarrod says.
“When we get to San Francisco,” Nick brings up, “Hopefully Ed will be able to fill us in on what they are using to negotiate the conditions with.”
“Now,” Jarrod says, “You’re talking.”
“We’ll also be needing the men to somehow get to San Francisco,” Nick brings up.
“We could help with that,” Jack offers.
“That would be a huge help,” Nick informs them, “Get a hold of Duke.”
“We’ll do that,” Jim replies.
Part 389
“So,” Jarrod says, “Let’s see what we have so far.”
“Well,” Jim brings up, “We do know that somehow they want a large sum of money seeing Father had us draw money out of the banks and had Jack go back to the house and get the money he had from the safe which means that if it is a kidnapping they are looking for the ransom.”
“But,” Jack brings up, “He must need a larger amount than what we’re bringing with us.”
“Why do you say that?” Jarrod asks.
“Because,” Jack says “He asked me to bring this here document with me,” pulling out the envelope that contains the power of attorney in it.
“Let me see that,” Jarrod asks and as takes it from Jack and opens it he sees what it entails with Nick looking on with him.
“I wonder just how much,” Nick brings up, “More they want?”
“Not sure,” Jarrod says, “But if he had him bring this document with him that must mean he may need something more than the 20,000 between the two of them.”
“Like,” Heath asks, “All of what is in the bank?”
“It’s quite possible,” Jarrod says, “And this little piece of paper gives Uncle Jim the rights to it.”
“What is that?” Heath asks.
“It’s a document,” Jarrod says, “That Father and Uncle Jim must’ve had drawn up together long ago in case something did happen to Father which entitles Uncle Jim to the rights of anything that belongs to Father. This piece of paper is a legal document in the eyes of the court that is called a Power of Attorney. It acts or protects anything of ours and where we may have no claim or right to; this piece of paper gives or grants Uncle Jim the right to it.”
“Including money,” Nick brings up, “Needed from the bank if they are requiring one of us to sign for it and if we’re not there to do so grants him the right to do that as well.”
“Not only that, but it also gives” Jarrod says “Uncle Jim the rights to anything Barkley.”
“That must mean,” Heath brings up, “What he meant as Ace in the hole.”
Smiling, “That it does Brother Heath,” Jarrod informs him.
“And this piece of paper,” Nick brings up, “Could very well help us with other issues.”
“Yes, it can,” Jarrod says “And we’ll get to them as the time comes up for it.”
“What do we do in the meantime,” Heath asks.
“In the meantime,” Nick says, “How about us going back up front so you could get back to your rest?”
“I’m alright,” Heath whines.
“No,” Nick says, “You were supposed to be resting as much as possible.”
“Nick’s right Heath,” Jarrod adding his voice to Nick’s, “We promised the doctor you would be resting.”
“Maybe,” Nick suggests, “We should have you return to the house with Jack and Jim when we arrive in Stockton.”
“No,” Heath protests, “I want to find out what’s going on with Mother too.”
“Very well then,” Nick says, “Let’s get back to our seats then,” leading the way out of the car with a reluctant Heath and Jarrod in tow.
In San Francisco
Missionary
While engaged in a card game Earl looking over at Ma Parker who is staring out the window asks, “Ma, is something wrong?”
Letting out a sigh “Wrong” Ma says “What could possibly be wrong?”
“Don’t know,” Earl replies, “Looks like something’s on your mind. Is there? Like maybe you’re thinking of what we will be doing with the money once we get it?”
“Yeah” Ma tells him “Like being caught and perhaps twenty years a piece or more.”
“What you want us to do Ma?” Lance asks, “You’re the brains of this operation whatever you say goes?”
“Ma,” Earl asks, “What do you want us to do? The 72 hours is almost here.”
Sighing, “Yes I know,” Ma replies “Bring me Mrs. Barkley.”
Quickly getting up they cross to the kitchen and upon opening the cellar door Earl followed by Lance go down the stairs.
Stockton
At school as it is reaching noontime Eugene followed by Audra gets up from their seats. Mrs. Stevens standing in front of the class asks Eugene and Audra where they are going to which Eugene replies, “We have to go do something; we’ll be back in a few minutes,” and not waiting for a response from the teacher they just quickly go out the door and head down the street.
In San Francisco
While Terry is still working on the bar of the window trying to get it to loosen up he is exerting all his strength with the men and Victoria idly watching him until hearing the sound of footsteps moving in their direction, “Hey,” Paul calls out, “Someone’s coming.”
“You better stop Terry,” Ferdinand recommends as they hear the footsteps outside the cellar door come to a complete halt.
Stopping what he is doing and quickly taking a seat on the cold floor the door opens and as the door opens, “Come with us,” Earl barks at Victoria.
“Where to” Victoria asks.
“Where you taking her to” Vernon inquires.
“That’s not of your concern” Earl says, “Now, let’s get moving.”
Doing as instructed Victoria leaves the cellar with Earl and Lance who are walking her up the far stairwell.
Returning to the front room Lance calls out “Ma! Here she is!”
“Well Mrs. Barkley,” Ma says while holding a pool stick in her hand, “You probably wondered why I sent for you?”
As she is standing before her, “The thought did occur to me,” Victoria notes.
“I wanted to let you know,” Ma says, “That it is almost 72 hours. You’re probably wondering what that means?”
“I’m sure you will tell me,” Victoria notes.
“You’re a pretty smart woman, Mrs. Barkley,” Ma says.
“I try to be,” Victoria quips.
“Well,” Ma goes on and says, “72 hours means that is the amount of time I gave your son to gather up the money requested. Pretty soon, we will be informing him of how we are going to want it delivered to us. If they follow each and every instruction to the letter and we get what we asked for without any problems you may be set free and get to see your family again before long. If they in anyway should louse it up then you’re days on this here Earth will be almost over with. As soon as we get more information we will fill you in as they come up; any questions?”
“Can’t think of any,” Victoria says, “Besides anything I bring up I am sure you won’t listen to.”
“And,” Ma replies, “You are probably correct,” glancing over at her eldest son, “Lance. Return her.”
As he grabs hold of her arm, “Come on,” he barks to her as she complies without any problems.
“I need the brains,” Ma says, “You think it takes brains to hold onto a woman while waiting for $50,000 to come our way; after we get it then what?”
“We could always leave here,” Earl replies.
“And where would we go?” Ma asks.
“We could leave here and,” Earl suggests, “Maybe go to Canada.”
“Canada?” Ma says, “What would we do in Canada?”
“We could start a whole new life for ourselves,” Earl insists, “Have a clean slate.”
Walking in, overhearing “Earl has a point Ma,” Lance brings up, “No one will ever know we were tied to this here place or have any reason to hold anything over our heads.”
“What we do with that woman downstairs?” Ma asks, “And the shipment coming in on Saturday?”
“We wait for it to arrive,” Lance says, “And then after we finish we just up and go.”
“But,” Ma brings up, “Don’t the two of you ever feel like you want to do something on your own?”
“What for?” Earl asks, “We’re doing alright and once we get the 50,000 split three ways that’ll be over 16,000 a piece, that aint half bad and we could get a couple new spreads with that and we could very well indeed start over.”
“Not to mention,” Lance brings up, “A little more pocket change that we will be raking in on Saturday from the men downstairs.”
“You call that good?” Ma asks, “When we get it then what? And what do we do with Mrs. Barkley?”
“We could let her go,” Earl suggests.
“Don’t be a fool Earl,” Ma tells him, “Do you think we could let her go once we get it?”
“She doesn’t know where we are” Earl mentions “At the moment.”
“But she knows what we look like,” Ma informs them, “And it won’t take long before someone places us with her. They will have a posse everywhere out there looking for us.”
“Do you want us to dispose of her?” Lance asks.
“No!” Ma informs them, “At least not yet. We still may need her.”
“We could always take her with us,” Lance suggests, “As a hostage until we reach the border or drop her someplace between here and there.”
“Take her with us?” Ma mimics.
“What else are we to do with her?” Earl asks, “It’s either take her with us or dispose of her either way they’ll be coming looking for us once they find out.”
“But,” Lance notes, “If we take her with us and just drop her off and get caught we will be getting hit less than if we were to dispose of her.”
“Lance is right Ma,” Earl says, “If we dispose of her we could be looking at a noose around our necks instead of just time in some prison cell. And we’re also dealing with a woman who is not just any woman but a woman that people know.”
Letting out another deep sigh, “Let me think on that one,” Ma says, “And right now I think it’s time one of you delivered the rules of how they are to play it.”
“I’ll do it Ma,” Lance replies.
“Why you?” Earl asks.
“Because I called it,” Lance says, “And besides I am better at delivering the note than you are.”
“You are not” Earl disputes.
“I am so,” Lance says.
“That’s enough boys,” Ma calls out, “And Lance you will deliver the note. Just make it snappy and be sure you’re not spotted.”
Taking the note and placing it in his pocket “Be back before it’s time for dinner,” Lance replies.
As he is exiting the room, “See that you are,” Earl tells him.
Stockton
As the train is coming towards the station, “We’re here,” Jarrod announces.
“Here,” Jack and Jim say, “This might stall them until we are able to get there with the rest,” handing Jarrod the envelopes containing the money in them.
“Good idea,” Jarrod replies.
As Jarrod takes the envelopes Uncle Jim is waiting patiently as the train pulls in.
Leaving the school and hearing the whistle blowing “It’s coming,” Audra shouts to Gene who says, “We better hurry,” and picking up speed they run towards the train which is now coming to a complete stop; Gene who is out of breath with Audra in tow watch as people begin piling out of the train.
While Jim and Jack grab the suitcases, Maureen and Linda swoop up Benny and Katie with Brandon, J.J. Jimmy and Jason walking alongside of them and upon catching sight of Jim standing there the boys call out, “Grandpa,” who is ready to assist with carrying little Jimmy as they are exiting the car.
“Here’s the envelop you requested,” Jack informs Jim.
Taking it “Thank goodness,” Uncle Jim says.
“I hope we’re in time Father,” Jack mentions.
“Let’s get moving,” Uncle Jim says, “We don’t have any time to spare.”
“Right,” Jack replies.
“Maureen,” Jim Jr. says, “We’ll be right back.”
“We’ll be here,” Maureen mentions as she and Linda wait patiently with the children and suitcases before them.
As passengers board or pile out they don’t notice Jarrod, Heath or Nick who is calling out to Gene and Audra who quickly follows them to the second car and board, “Nick, Jarrod,” Gene followed by Audra says as they are catching their breaths from running so far and so fast, “Heath!” Audra then asks, “What happened?”
“Never mind at the moment,” Nick says, “What’s going on?”
“Gene,” Jarrod asks, “What’s going on? We got your wire.”
“I was hoping you did,” Gene replies, “Mother has been taken hostage.”
“Just what we figured,” Heath says.
“Damn!” Nick barks.
“What’s the conditions?” Jarrod asks “Did they give any?”
“Uncle Jim,” Gene replies, “Is gathering the money being requested.”
“How much?” Nick asks, “Are we talking?”
“They’ve asked,” Audra says, “For 50,000.”
“We’re waiting on,” Gene brings up, “Jim and Jack to come with the rest of what is needed.”
“They’re here,” Nick mentions.
“They’re here?” Gene mumbles.
“They happened to be on the train with us,” Jarrod then asks, “What else can you tell us?”
“They gave us,” Gene mentions, “72 hours to get it together.”
“When was the note delivered?” Jarrod wanted to know.
“They,” Gene brings up, “Somehow took Mother on Friday night leaving the note.”
“Bill came with it on Saturday morning,” Audra informs them.
“Jarrod,” Gene mentions, “We’re so worried about Mother.”
“I know you are,” Jarrod says, “But we’re going to San Francisco now as soon as we get there we’ll find her. Just hang in there” placing his hand on his shoulder.
Hearing the sound of the whistle, “You better go,” Nick tells them.
“We’ll wire you,” Jarrod mentions, “As soon as we know something more.”
“Come on Gene,” Audra says with worried faces Gene and Audra exit the train watching as Heath, Jarrod and Nick also have equally concerned faces.
tbc
