Post by sandymarek on Mar 17, 2012 20:47:33 GMT -4
Part 413
“It’s best if we had you come with us,” Jarrod points out.
“Come with you?” Governor inquires.
“Yes,” Jarrod says, “We need for you to come and see the mess we had to deal with. Believe me, if it wasn’t that important I wouldn’t have made the trip out here at such an early hour like this.”
Pondering the insistence in his answer, “Stephen,” he then insists, “Will you kindly see to getting my horse ready?”
“You’re going with them?” Mr. Benton asks.
“I am,” the governor answers.
“Very well,” Mr. Benton says and while he quickly goes out the door, “Wait here!” the governor informs Jarrod and Nick, “I’ll be right with you.”
Upon returning to the dining room the governor quickly excuses himself, “Pa,” his youngest daughter Mary asks, “Where you going?”
“I have to go out for a few minutes,” the governor informs her.
His wife, Anna tells him, “Hurry back.”
“I will,” he informs her, “Be back as quickly as I can.”
After returning to the front room, the governor quickly leaves with Jarrod and Nick. As they see Benton’s horse as well as the governor’s saddled, “You’re coming with us?” Nick wanted to know.
“The governor,” Benton mentions, “Doesn’t go anywhere without my accompanying him outside of his home.”
“Shall we get started,” the governor suggests and after they all quickly mount up they proceed out the gate with Benton staying very close to the governor.
Back at Jarrod’s
Reaching the log cabin Heath quickly goes inside with Bill, Kyle and Uncle Jim in tow. After finding out where Columbia and Broadway are they quickly walk back out. Meanwhile walking into the Denton’s front door Billy quickly calls out to his mother Sherry who immediately comes into the room upon hearing his voice.
Upon exchanging welcoming hugs, “Oh Billy,” she asks, “You’re alright?”
“I’m fine,” he answers.
Then catching sight of Victoria standing there they go into a quick embrace and then a little bit about what took place and after the quick details Victoria suggests they resume this once they’ve had a good hot breakfast to which Sherry quickly offers the pancake batter that she still has left over.
Agreeing to serve everyone at the cabin Victoria quickly walks back out leaving Billy there.
China Town
As Jim is riding up and down the various roads he comes to he discovers he isn’t getting anywhere and decides to start talking to some of the local men and women he comes in contact with for help. At first those he talks with he is unsuccessful with due to their language barrier but eventually manages to find a couple of men who are able to speak English enough to assist him with the directions in getting there.
Mounting back up he follows the directions given and as he goes down the road of Grant Avenue he notices a small herd of cattle to his far west, and beyond the grazing cows, loomed the imposing mountains. The terrain ahead he comes to begins to gradually rise, forming a rounded hill. As he looks to his far east he could see the water to the Pacific Ocean and continues on Grant Avenue going over the center of the hill.
As he continues looking for the Chinese Fortune Cookie he could feel his stomach churning in anxious anticipation. A quick glance to his far rear he manages to catch sight of a pair of deer running by and as he reaches the crest of the hill he catches sight of a small farmland.
Continuing on the hill he could see another hill about half-mile or so to his north and then as he looks further down he stops and as he finally finds what he is looking for he comes to learn that what he sees is the entrance to a silver mine which just happens to be called the Chinese Fortune Cookie.
Glancing down at the various footprints in the dirt he dismounts and tries to decipher and determine who and what they go to. But just as he starts moving towards them he starts to hear the clatter of hooves galloping up and quickly grabs the reins to his horse and decides to find a safe haven for him and resume the rest of his traveling on foot.
After the riders continue on their way he jogs back down the hill and notices a couple of large boulders which oversees the entrance to the mine while at the same time hidden from the undergrowth and long weeds that override it and considers it the ideal place to hide and watch for Johnny to appear as well as a good spot to watch for the kidnapper, who will be picking up the ransom money.
Back at Jarrod’s
Inside the house as Audra is coming out of the bathroom and heading down the hall she is met by Ed who comes out of his room saying “Goodmorning Audra.”
“Goodmorning Ed” Audra asks “Are you alright? Shouldn’t you still be in bed?”
Nodding his head “I’m alright” Ed says “And as for being in bed” running his hand against his sore ribs “I had enough of that for a little bit, besides I need to know what is going on. Where is everyone?”
“Mother’s home,” Audra informs him.
“Your mother?” Ed asks.
“Yes,” Audra replies, “She just came home a little bit ago.”
“That’s wonderful Audra,” Ed mentions.
“It is,” Audra notes, “It’s the best news I’ve had since first learning of it.”
“I could imagine,” Ed says, “Where are your brothers?”
“Gene went downstairs,” Audra mentions, “And from what I know, Heath just left here with Bill to bring Uncle Jim to see Jim, who just got shot…”
“Shot?” Ed mimics.
“I know as much as you,” Audra notes, “Which isn’t much and as for Jarrod and Nick they went to see the governor.”
“The governor?” Ed says, “Now? This time of the morning?”
“From what I just got out of Gene,” Audra mentions, “That is what he told me. If you want to hear more I suggest you get dressed and come down the stairs that is if you are up to it.”
“I’ll be right there” Ed answers as he takes his turn into the bathroom and Audra resumes going down the hall to her room.
8/23/11
Reaching the doctor’s office and going inside Kyle quickly calls out “Mr. Denton” to Ray who is sitting there quickly stands up and upon facing them “Any word?” Bill asks.
“How is he?” Uncle Jim wanted to know.
“The doctor is in with him now,” Ray mentions.
Just then a woman in her 30’s comes out and says, “Mr. Denton.”
Ray turning his head, “How is he?” asks of her.
“He’ll be alright,” she mentions.
“This is,” Ray says, “Jim’s father.”
“Hello,” she then asks, “Would you like to see him?”
“Please,” he replies.
“Come with me,” she says and quickly escorts them into the room she just came out of, “Ben,” she mentions, “This here is Mr. Barkley.”
“Yes,” the doctor answers, “We’ve met; briefly.”
“Jim,” Uncle Jim says, “How you doing?”
“I’m doing alright Father,” Jim Jr informs him.
“How is he?” Uncle Jim asks watching as the doctor is busy with bandaging up the shoulder.
“He is one lucky fella,” the doctor mentions, “If the bullet was one or two inches closer to the right, he may not be sitting here as we speak.”
“Will he be alright?” Uncle Jim wanted to know.
“If he takes it easy,” The doctor encourages, “Until it heals he should be.”
“Is he well enough to travel?” Uncle Jim then wanted to know.
“I don’t recommend any long distant traveling or riding horseback” the doctor says “But yes, you’re free to take him home just as soon as I finish with him here.”
“How about if I go,” Ray offers, “And bring a buggy back for him?”
“That would be best,” the doctor says.
Ray replies, “I’ll be back shortly,” and quickly heads out the door.
“I do strongly recommend,” the doctor continues, “That once you get him home that he rests and don’t overdue anything until it has a chance to heal” glancing down at Jim Jr, “You hear me Jim?”
“I hear you Doctor,” Jim answers.
“You could be sure of that Doctor,” Uncle Jim mentions.
Glancing up at Heath “And how about you” the doctor asks, “How you feeling?”
“Doing alright” Heath replies.
“You sure?” the doctor asks, “When I took a look at you earlier yesterday you had a low grade fever and were told to rest.”
“I could assure you,” Heath mentions, “I’m alright.”
Glancing up at him “I’m not so sure about that,” the doctor then asks, “How about after I finish with Jim here I take a look at you?” studying his face.
“It’s going to have to wait, Doctor,” Heath says, “We need to be going.”
“Going?” the doctor asks.
“We have to go do something,” Heath mentions, “Uncle Jim, will you be alright?”
“I’ll be alright,” Uncle Jim tells him, “You do know where you’re going?”
“I do” Heath vows.
“Be sure to do what you have to do quickly and safely as possible,” Uncle Jim says, “The same goes for you Bill.”
“We will,” Bill informs him, “And I’ll keep my eye on him.”
“Keep your eye on each other,” Uncle Jim tells him.
Replying “That you could definitely count on” Bill and Heath then quickly walk out of the doctor’s office and upon mounting their horses they leave.
Glancing over at Uncle Jim, “I don’t know where that boy is going,” the doctor brings up, “But he does belong back home in bed.”
“Under normal circumstances,” Uncle Jim replies, “I quite agree with you and if we weren’t so tight on help, that is where he would be at this moment, but unfortunately we didn’t have much of a choice.”
“Well,” the doctor says, “For his sake, what ever he has to be doing I hope it doesn’t worsen his condition.”
“Father,” Jim Jr. asks, “Where is he going?”
“He and Bill,” Uncle Jim mentions, “Are going to try to catch up to Johnny and Jim to let them know they don’t have to continue with the ransom.”
China Town
As it remains rather quiet, Jim waiting patiently for the arrival of both Johnny and the kidnapper to show up, he carefully and quickly shifts his position and crouches down as low as he could possibly get himself to be.
At the Log Cabin
Victoria is seated at the table eating her breakfast with Ed, the men that she brought back with her and the rest of the children with Audra and Gene seated on each side of her with Sherry serving them.
Starting off the conversation around the table, “Ed,” Victoria asks, “How you doing this morning?”
“I’m doing alright,” Ed answers.
“From what I understand,” Victoria brings up, “You should be in bed.”
“I couldn’t stay in bed any longer,” Ed mentions, “I was going stir crazy being there as long as I was.”
“I heard a little about what happened,” Victoria mentions.
“How much do you know?” Ed wanted to know.
“I heard you got jumped,” Victoria mentions, “While trying to deliver the ransom for my release. And that you have several broken ribs.”
“That’s pretty much the size of it,” Ed notes, “I didn’t see whoever it was coming.”
“It’s alright,” Victoria says, “I want to thank you for trying.”
“Hey,” Ed mentions, “I would do it all over again if I had to.”
“I know you would,” Victoria notes.
As Sherry sits and joins them at the table with her cup of coffee in hand she inquires about what happened with Gene and the boys meeting up with Victoria to which Gene mentions them heading down the back alleyway to what led them to the fight that occurred followed by the murder they eventually witnessed and then while at the same time being surrounded by the captors who were holding Victoria and the other men around the table.
After listening to it “You were all extremely lucky” Sherry mentions.
“Mother,” Billy says, “I was never so scared in my life.”
“Nor I,” Neil mentions, “They were going to kill us.”
“You now know why,” Sherry notes, “It’s not safe to venture out that late at night.”
“We only did it,” Todd brings up, “To help Gene find Mrs. Barkley.”
“I understand that,” Sherry says, “But, please don’t do something like that ever again.”
“We won’t, Mother” Billy vows.
“Audra, Gene,” Victoria then asks, “Could you tell me how it is you managed to get here?”
Letting out a deep sigh, “It was an accident,” Gene mentions.
“How’s that?” Victoria wanted to know.
As Gene and Audra exchange glances Gene says, “When we learned you were being held for ransom, Jarrod sent us a wire asking us to meet them when the train arrived to find out more about the letter we received.”
“How did Jarrod find out?” Victoria wanted to know.
“Sorry Aunt Victoria,” Ed says, “I thought they had a right to know and sent a quick wire.”
“So did I” Gene brings up.
“That explains how they came to be here,” Victoria says, “But how did the two of you manage to be here as well.”
Part 414
“After meeting the train,” Audra replies, “We filled them in on what we knew and got off and were starting to head back to school.”
“But then,” Gene says, “As the train was leaving…”
“Yes?” Victoria urges, “Continue.”
Swallowing hard “We” glancing over at Audra “Just ran after it” Eugene mentions.
With his mouth wide opened “You stowed away on a train?” Todd joining in inquires.
“It was an accident,” Audra mentions.
“What was it like?” Neil asks, “I never did anything like that before.”
“Actually,” Audra states, “Scary.”
“Gene, Audra,” Victoria then asks, “What on Earth possessed the two of you to do something like that?”
“We didn’t mean to do it,” Gene says, “It just sort of happened.”
“We know Mother,” Audra says, “What we did was wrong.”
“It was more than wrong Audra,” Victoria states, “It’s breaking of the law.”
“Mother,” Gene says, “At the time we did it, we didn’t think of it as breaking a law, we were just so worried about you that we just didn’t think.”
“I understand that Gene,” Victoria replies, “And don’t think I’m not grateful for what you did, because I am, but you also were taking an awful risk by doing that.”
“We know Mother” Audra says “But at the time we weren’t thinking too clearly and when we saw the train there and pulling out we just took a chance and did it.”
“You’re both lucky to be getting off so lightly,” Victoria tells them, “Not to mention to be alive. You could’ve gotten yourselves killed by trying to do something like that.”
“Lightly?” Gene mimics, “When we get back to the ranch, we have a 30 day sentence to make up for it thanks to Jarrod.”
“Well” Victoria says, “It’ll serve you both right. It’ll give you an opportunity to think about what you did and to teach you a lesson about even considering doing something so dangerous and irresponsible again; but for right now how about if we go onto something else.”
“That might be best,” Audra then replies.
As they eat they go onto other topics such as what occurred at the waterfront with the men being placed on board ships and the crimps getting paid for it as well as some of the other men they saw sleeping in the cellars of the various establishments, not to mention the men Victoria brought back with her almost in the same boat as them.
Then bringing up some of the other things they saw on the way they mention the couple doing more than just kissing and as the boys each start going into some of the details of what they saw Audra with her eyes opened wide asks, “They did what?”
Quickly cutting them off Victoria says, “Okay, I think that will be it for now.”
“Oh Mother,” comes from Gene and Audra.
“You heard me,” Victoria says.
“Darn,” Gene replies, “Just when it’s about to get good, we have to stop.”
“When you’re a little older,” Victoria mentions, “You’ll understand more.”
“That’s what you always say,” Gene snickers.
“With certain things” Victoria says “Sometimes its best until you’re old enough to comprehend it, it’ll also give you something to look back on and say; now I understand it. Glad I did wait. And you’ll also appreciate the rewards that come with it for waiting. But for now, finish up so you could turn in. I’m sure you’re all extremely tired.”
“I am,” Todd mentions.
“So am I,” Billy says.
“I’m not,” Audra replies, “I just woke up.”
“Yes, I know dear,” Victoria says, “You could stay awake and give me a hand with cleaning up in here.”
“Sure Mother,” Audra replies.
Turning to each of the men, “How you fellas doing?” Victoria wanted to know.
“Much better now,” Ferdinand mentions, “Now that we are completely away from there.”
“This breakfast,” Paul says, “Is a lot better than what we had to have.”
“Just think,” Victoria brings up, “This is just only the beginning. As soon as you’ve all had a goodnight sleep and really rested give it time but, things will start to get better.”
“They already have,” Vern replies, “Just by being out of there.”
“Indeed yes,” Dean notes.
“I do feel bad,” Terry brings up, “About Robert though.”
“So do I,” Victoria mentions, “I could never be able to thank him enough for what he did.”
Watching as she begins to have tears in her eyes “Aunt Victoria” Ed says, “Don’t do this to yourself” placing his hand on her arm.
“I can’t help it Ed,” Victoria mentions, “Because of what he did I am here now. He saved my life…”
Placing her hand on her other arm, “Mother,” Audra says.
“I’m alright Audra,” Victoria replies, “I just feel so bad for him.”
“If there’s any consolation to all this,” Terry says, “We could at least say that those who were responsible got what was coming to them.”
“True,” Victoria replies, “But even though they were terrible people I still feel sorry for them, sorry for anyone who has to die.”
“Sometimes,” Ed says, “It can’t be helped.”
“I know that too,” Victoria replies, “How I wish we could all live in a peaceful society and not have to worry about people being out there who don’t think twice about being nasty and just doing things for the sake of money.”
“Well, it’s been said,” Ed brings up, “That money is what is known as the root of all evil. As much as we can’t live without it there are people out there who will just do whatever they can to get it even if means taking someone else’s life. Those kinds of people you can’t even reason with and we can’t really do much about. I mean they all started out as someone’s small child. You often have to wonder just what makes these evil people grow up to be the evil person they become what makes them go to such great lengths to even consider doing what they did.”
As everyone around the table turns silent and as she observes each one of them keeping their attention on her, “I’ll be alright.”
“Mother,” Audra suggests, “It may not be much, but how about if we say a little prayer for him.”
Nodding her head, “That we could do Audra,” Victoria says showing a little smile and as everyone stops eating they all bow their heads in a moment in silence as Victoria says a little prayer for him upon responding, “Amen,” they all resume eating in silence.
China Town
Johnny who is now coming up on Green Street also being baffled by where he needs to go starts asking directions from the local men and women he comes into contact with.
As he starts running into snags due to the language barrier he continues talking and asking for help until he manages to find someone who is able to speak English and give him directions to it.
As he talks to the gentlemen one of them mention, “You’re the second person who have asked us about that in the last few minutes.”
“Is that right?” he asks.
“Yes,” comes from one of them.
“Just need to locate it,” he mentions.
After talking amongst themselves they decide to give him the directions needed and he kindly thanks them and proceeds onto Grant Avenue.
“What would two of them want with that, Lee?” the first man asks, “There’s nothing there and hasn’t been anything for quite some time.”
“Not sure,” comes from Lee, “Maybe they just heard about it and just wanted to see it for themselves.”
“Could be,” comes from the second man.
Back Alleyway of Mission Street
As Jarrod and Nick bring the governor to the back alleyway of where the battle took place, the governor atop his mount, as well as Mr. Benton is getting a first hard look at the sight before him, the many dead bodies lying in the street.
“Oh, my,” comes from Benton.
Disgusted and grimacing, “Disgraceful Jarrod,” the governor says, “All those poor boys,” shaking his head in dastardly disbelief, “And your mother.”
“I thought you would feel this way, Governor” Jarrod notes.
“Even though I knew of it,” the governor mentions, “Looking at it here and now I didn’t really have to take a hard look at what was happening until now.”
“And you said,” Mr. Benton brings up, “Your brother was exposed to all this?”
“He was,” Nick answers, “And so were the other boys that he came here with.”
As they dismount and start scouting about they first go over to the dead body of Robert, “This one here,” Jarrod states, “Was one of the ones being held by the same men that were holding our Mother.”
With his hands behind him, “This is so sad,” The governor notes, “So terrible. Which building was he in?” glancing about.
“That one there” Nick says “The Missionary” as he points to it to their right.
“Did you go inside?” the governor wanted to know.
“No,” Nick answers.
“We thought it best,” Jarrod says, “To leave everything as you see it so that you could see for yourself what took place. And this is just only the beginning.”
“You did quite right Jarrod,” the governor notes, “And you said that your brother and the other boys witnessed the murder?”
“Yes” Jarrod says “In that building there” pointing to the Wards’ House “Is where the murder took place. And if we didn’t come along they may have been as well.”
“Thank goodness,” the governor replies, “I am so glad that your mother and your brother not to mention the other boys with them are now safely away from here. I am so sorry that they had to be exposed to any of this.”
“So are we Governor,” Jarrod says, “But now that you see what is here I think you know it’s time for all this to come to a complete end.”
“I do, yes,” the governor replies, “And I do plan on it. I did have a meeting scheduled with the police commissioner later on in the day but I think in lieu of what occurred here I plan on going to see him a lot sooner than that.”
“That might be best,” Jarrod notes.
Jarrod then brings up, “I should point out that there may still be men inside that haven’t been freed yet. You may want to help them.”
“You are so right,” the governor vows, “And I assure you I will. But for now how about if the two of you went on home and leave the cleaning up to us. Later on, I would like to talk to the men that were being held along with your mother, not to mention your brother and the boys that witnessed all this.”
“That shouldn’t be much of a problem” Jarrod says “My brother is staying at my place and the boys have been staying over at Mr. Denton’s. How about if you came by and talked with them after they all had a chance to recuperate from all this and had a goodnight sleep? They’ve been up all night and are extremely tired.”
“I’m sure you’re probably just as tired,” the governor notes.
“We are,” Jarrod says, “But we still have one more little item to contend with. So how about if we meet you back at my house let’s say 5 pm?”
Nodding his head, “5 p.m. it is,” The governor announces and with that Jarrod and Nick make their quick departure from the alleyway and after grabbing their horses they head down the street.
9/14/11
The governor, who after looks over at the dead body of Vic draped over the side of a horse with Mr. Benton beside him, shakes his head once again in utter disgust and then after letting out a strong sigh “Governor” Mr. Benton says “We can’t stay.”
“Come on Stephen,” the governor urges, “Let’s go see O’Hara.”
After mounting back up with Benton in the lead they head out away from the alley and as they come up to Fremont they take a right onto Market to which they then take a quick left onto Battery in pursuit of the police station that is housed on Vallejo Street.
Meanwhile, Jarrod and Nick after exiting Mission Street heads down Montgomery on their way to Columbus and Broadway to hopefully meet up and intercept Bill and Heath who are trying to catch up to Jim and Johnny.
Back at the log cabin, after the boys finish their breakfast they turn in while Sarah, Sue Ann and Melanie assist Victoria and Sherry with fixing make shift cots in the far back room for the five men that will be occupying them; the younger children Noah, Penny and Kimmy are in the main room helping with clearing the table while Audra and Diane are busy with doing the dishes in the kitchen.
Returning to the house, Ray assists Uncle Jim with helping Jim Jr into bed while Kyle quickly goes back to the log cabin to let them know they’ve returned.
“Oh good,” Victoria says, “I’ll be right back” who is now in the kitchen assisting Sherry and the girls with the rest of the kitchen clean-up.
“Kyle,” Sherry asks, “Are you hungry?”
“I am,” Kyle admits.
“Victoria” Sherry says “How about if I fix Kyle his breakfast while you go turn in?”
“I can’t turn in,” Victoria informs her, “Until the rest of the family returns.”
“Very well,” Sherry says.
“Mother,” Audra offers, “How about if I come with you?”
“Sure dear,” Victoria replies and as she and Audra stop what they are doing they quickly head out the door while Sherry urges Kyle to go back to the house to get cleaned up while she works on getting his breakfast ready of pancakes and sausage. She has her daughter reset the table with the help of the other girls for Kyle and the others who will be returning that haven’t eaten yet.
Going inside Jarrod’s, Victoria and Audra quickly go up the stairs to find out how Jim Jr is doing. Once he’s fallen asleep and they are assured he is alright Victoria manages to persuade Jim Sr. to go with her and Ray over to the log cabin to have some breakfast. While he is doing that Audra volunteers to remain at the house to watch over Jim Jr.
Part 415
9/16/11
Police Station
Arriving at the Police Station both the governor and Mr. Benton walk inside side-by-side. Catching sight of Alan behind the desk “Alan” the governor calls out.
Quickly getting up out of his seat “Goodmorning Governor Haight,” Alan replies, “What brings you down this way at such an early hour of the morning?” as he extends his hand out to him.
Taking the offered hand “I came to see your father” the governor asks “Is he in?”
“Yes,” Alan answers.
“Could you let him know I am here,” the governor says, “And that I have to speak with him?”
“Certainly,” Alan answers and quickly going to the back office, “Father,” he calls out, “Governor Haight and Mr. Benton are here to see you.”
“Send them in Alan,” the Commissioner tells him.
And quickly going back out front Alan escorts them to the back office and upon getting out of his seat he immediately greets the governor and Mr. Brady accordingly and then asks, “What brings you out so early?”
“You,” The governor says.
“I don’t understand,” the commissioner replies.
“I know we have plans on meeting later on,” the governor brings up, “But for right now it’s imperative that I came out now to get you.”
“Get me?” The Commissioner asks.
“Yes,” Governor Haight answers, “That is what I just said.”
“Get me for what?” the Commissioner then says, “It sounds serious.”
“I never been so serious in my life Jeff!” the governor tells him “It’s time you’ve started to uphold the law that you’ve been commissioned to do” sternly, “It’s time you took a hard look at what is going on in your city.”
“I don’t understand,” the commissioner repeats.
“No,” the governor says, “But you will.”
“What’s happened?” the commissioner wanted to know.
“You’ll see” the governor announces “It’s what we plan on addressing at the meeting later on. But for right now, bring a couple of your most trusted officers with you, we or should I say you have work to do.”
“Where are we going?” the Commissioner asks.
“You’ll see when we get there,” the governor announces.
“Give me a minute,” the commissioner says, “How many men do you think I should bring with us?”
“For right now,” the governor suggests, “Bring 2 and a wagon.”
“A wagon?” the commissioner asks.
“Yes,” the governor replies, “Now, let’s get moving.”
And quickly exiting the room the commissioner followed by the governor and Mr. Benton go out into the front room. While Commissioner O’Hara calls on his son to retrieve a wagon, the governor and Mr. Benton go outside to wait for them.
Once Commissioner O’Hara grabs his two most trusted officers he has working for him which just happens to be a man named Burke and his son Alan, he leaves the desk in the hands of Officer Reynolds who happens to be a man in his thirties, with thinning light brown hair parted on the side.
Upon telling him, “We’ll be back as soon as we can,” he exits the station and joins the governor, Mr. Benton and his son, who now has a wagon hitched up waiting.
“I don’t know what this is all about,” the commissioner says, “But let’s get started,” as they all mount up, “Which way?” he asks of the governor who replies, “Follow us,” and then glancing over at Benton, “Lead the way Stephen,” and with that Mr. Benton leads the way with the governor riding slightly behind him, the commissioner alongside of him, Alan next to his father with the wagon being driven by Burke, right behind them.
Exiting the police station they take a right onto Vallejo Street and upon reaching the corner they proceed down onto Hyde Street heading south.
Back at the Log Cabin
While the men and Kyle have all turned in, Victoria is busy with cleaning the next round of dishes from the table and upon stopping suddenly “Mother” Audra observing says “Why don’t you let me finish doing that and you go get some sleep?”
“I can’t sleep Audra,” Victoria replies, “Not until everyone has come back home.”
As Victoria starts crying, “Mother,” Audra then asks, “What’s wrong?”
“Oh, it’s nothing” Victoria answers.
Placing her hand on her shoulder “Mother,” Audra says, “It has to be something.”
“Oh, I don’t know Audra,” sniffling, “I’ve just been thinking of everything that led up to this moment,” she mentions, “Your brothers out there trying to find the men, the governor, getting him to see what happened at that place,” while patting Audra’s hand, “Jim came very close to losing his life, not to mention those young boys as well as your own brother Gene,” Victoria closing her eyes then says, “I came very close to losing your brother Gene tonight. Oh Audra, I don’t know.”
“Mother,” Audra brings up, “Jim is going to be fine and so is Gene and from what I understand if it hadn’t been for him or the other boys, you may not be here right now at all either. You may still be in the hands of the kidnappers and I would still be sitting here wondering and worrying about you.”
Nodding her head “I know dear” Victoria says “But looking back” drawing Audra closer to her “So much has happened and yet,” running her hands through her long blonde hair “We have so much work left to do.”
“Mother,” Audra then replies, “Everything will work out. You always told me we have to rely on fate and faith and just be thankful that the family is finally back together again after a long hard couple of weeks. And pretty soon, once we’ve finished here we could start moving forward and putting all this behind us once and for all,” smiling, “And when we return to Stockton we could start going back to our normal regular every day to day routine of a life without ever having to worry about someone ever coming after Heath or Gene or you for that matter. When we awaken,” pausing, “We could wake up to a promising new day.”
“Audra,” Victoria then says, “Being a Barkley will always keep a price over our heads no matter what the circumstances and I could never stop worrying about someone trying to come after any one of us.”
“True” Audra replies “But as it has been said many times over, there’s strength in numbers which makes us Barkleys even so much more invincible. We stand behind one another through thick and thin, no matter what. If someone comes after any one of us they have to deal with us going after them and as Nick always said they will regret the day they even tried, making us even much stronger because of it.”
“I won’t argue with you on that,” Victoria notes, “I remember your father use to say that on many occasions.”
“Well,” Audra states, “I am his daughter and do have a lot of him inside me.”
“You won’t get any argument from me on that,” Victoria says.
“On several occasions, when ever he and I talked he use to say something similar to that to me as well; which is what made me bring it up. And,” she goes on to say, “If you just look at what happened when the trouble began, when those men came after Heath, the family was there to help him. When Uncle Jim learned he had a new nephew he stopped what he was doing, grabbed a train and came out to the ranch to meet him. When he and we learned you were in trouble and taken hostage, cousin Jim and Jack both managed to stop what they were doing grabbed a train and came all the way out here and Jim lives all the way down in Florida and yet he still came. Even Jarrod, Nick and Heath while they were busy up in Echo Lake stopped what they were doing and just came right down to San Francisco here as fast as they were able to.”
“Yes, they did,” Victoria replies, “And what about you and Gene? You also stopped what you were doing to be here.”
“We did” Audra says “I know now” rolling her eyes up “We didn’t use the best approach in coming here but we didn’t think of that at the time. We just had to come here.”
“I know” Victoria then brings up “And if your father was here now” grabbing hold of her chin “He would be very proud of his daughter” lifting her head upwards “Not so much about how you stowed away on a train but hearing the wisdom of his words.”
“I wish he was here Mother,” Audra admits.
“I know and so do I,” Victoria admits “I will admit however, you did a great job of trying to distract my thoughts with other thoughts but it doesn’t stop me now from worrying or thinking.”
Placing her hand on her shoulder “I know,” Audra sympathetically replies.
“It did,” Victoria states, “Help with enlightening the situation a little.”
“At least that’s something,” Audra notes.
“It is,” Victoria admits, “And you’re right nothing could or would ever stop this family from being there for one another.”
“No,” Audra says, “It wouldn’t and it doesn’t stop me from worrying or thinking either, it only helps more knowing that this family stands behind one another once again through thick and thin.”
“Agreed,” Victoria mentions.
“And you know,” Audra brings up, “Once everyone has come back home after finishing with what they are doing, we have to work on this Sunday coming up.”
“Sunday?” Victoria mumbles, “Oh yes, Easter Sunday. I almost nearly forgot.”
“With everything that took place,” Audra says, “I could see how it would slip your mind so I thought I’d mention it. You did want us to all be together for this Sunday. And this Easter Sunday will be Heath’s very first with the family.”
“That’s right too,” Victoria notes, “We have to think of doing something special.”
“Like what?” Audra asks.
“Not sure,” Victoria says, “But let’s finish cleaning up in here and then we could work on that.”
“What about your sleep?” Audra asks.
“I can’t sleep until everyone got back home,” Victoria says, “And you’re bringing up Easter has helped get my mind off of everything. Thanks Audra.”
“No problem,” Audra notes, “I knew if I’d look I would find it.”
Kissing the top of Audra’s head “And it did” Victoria says as she quietly still thinks of everything that occurred in between wiping away the tears from her eyes and resuming cleaning up the table with Audra assisting her quietly.
Mission Street
As the governor, Mr. Benton, Commissioner O’Hara, his son Alan and Burke approach the back alleyway, “Be prepared,” the governor informs the Commissioner.
“It’s bad?” Commissioner O’Hara asks.
“Very,” The governor notes.
Turning the corner and heading down the alleyway from where the battle took place the commissioner atop his mount says “Oh my” looking at the dead bodies in the street.
“Father,” Alan announces in horror, “Look!”
“I see it, Alan,” Commissioner O’Hara mentions.
“I thought you would feel this way,” the governor notes.
“What happened?” The commissioner asks, as they dismount and he absorbs the entire situation before him.
“You really want me to spell it out for you?” the governor inquires.
“You see those bodies there,” Benton cuts in with.
“Of course I see them,” Commissioner O’Hara mentions.
“A fight broke out” Benton says “A kidnapping and a murder all in one for starters. And that’s all we know so far when we stopped to come and get you.”
“You said a kidnapping?” Commissioner O’Hara wanted to know.
“That’s what I said,” Benton mentions, “It seems the local citizens decided to take matters into their own hands because they didn’t know who in the police station they could come to or trust who is supposed to be upholding the law and being there for their citizens.”
“Who was kidnapped?” Commissioner O’Hara asks.
“Mrs. Barkley,” Governor Haight mentions.
“Mrs. Barkley?” Commissioner O’Hara confused inquires.
“Yes,” Governor Haight replies, “Now we don’t know all the details ourselves yet but apparently her sons managed to rescue her on their own and while they attempted doing that, a fight broke out as Stephen stated and a murder at the result of the fight.”
“Who was responsible?” Commissioner O’Hara asks.
“You mean the fight?” Governor Haight asks, “The murder; the kidnapping?”
“Yes,” Commissioner O’Hara answers.
“We’re not really sure yet,” Governor Haight notes, “But the fight and the murder had to do with what occurred at the Wards’ House there,” pointing, “And the kidnapping, took place there,” indicating the Missionary.
“I was not aware of any of this,” Commissioner O’Hara mentions.
“Of course not,” Governor Haight says, “But it’s time you did come out from your back office and face the real world here Jeff and learn about what is going on. A crime was committed actually two or more and yet no one wanted to go to the police to even report it.”
“And,” Benton brings up, “If you and your police force did their job from the start and instead of taking bribes, looking the other way or having the local citizens not wanting to come to you for fear of what may happen, then this kind of thing could’ve been avoided long ago.”
“He’s right Father,” Alan replies.
“I know Alan” Commissioner O’Hara says “And I agree it’s time all this came to an end.”
“Now you’re talking,” Governor Haight replies.
As he really studies and begins comprehending the situation, “Alan,” Commissioner O’Hara suggests, “Why don’t you and Burke take care of the bodies while I go with the Governor?”
“Sure Father,” Alan replies and while he and Burke move towards each of the victims on the ground nearest the Wards’ House, Commissioner O’Hara goes with Governor Haight and Benton over to the Missionary.
Reaching the back doorway and peering inside they notice it to be the kitchen. Glancing about they see a table and chairs in the center of the room, with dishes and glasses on top some half-full, to the right a flight of stairs with a door to the right of that and to their left a countertop with a sink basin in the center with cabinets suspended above and a wood burning stove to its right.
Carefully stepping inside they observe the mess not only on the table but on the counter top, in the sink and the cabinets slightly opened. Raising an eyebrow they just ignore it and proceed to the other side of the room which brings them to another doorway which leads to the main room.
The main room has a table in the center with a deck of cards, dishes and glasses half-full on top. To the right a flight of stairs and to the left a bar which runs the length of the room with ten stools in front of the counter.
Walking over to it they carefully look about and catching sight of a lever behind on the other side, “Well, I’ll be,” the commissioner says.
“You do know what its purpose is,” Benton mentions.
As he goes over to it “Of course I do,” Commissioner O’Hara replies, “This is how they capture their prospective candidates.”
“Very good,” Benton announces.
“I may have been in the back room for too long,” Commissioner O’Hara states, “But that doesn’t mean I am that naïve.”
“No” Governor Haight replies “However, at least now by being out here you do see more of what is happening than you did before.”
“That is true,” Commissioner O’Hara then says, “Stand back,” and as he pulls on the lever the governor and Benton quickly step back and they all observe in astounding amazement at the floor opening up and one of the bar stools disappearing.
“Well,” Benton then replies, “Look at that.”
“Come on,” the governor insists and as they quickly exit the room they go back into the kitchen and seeing the door that leads downstairs to the cellar they immediately head down there.
Part 416
Reaching the door that is bolted shut they each look about for the key with the commissioner managing to find it hidden away above the ledge over the door. Placing the key into the hole he unlocks it and upon going inside they catch sight of the dirty old mattress just below the opened ceiling with the bar stool on its side.
“So,” Benton says, “This is how they snatch their captives.”
“Look here,” the commissioner announces and going over to the broken window.
“This must be how,” Benton states, “Mrs. Barkley and the others that were being held down here got free.”
“That would be my assumption,” Governor Haight notes, “Thank god for that.”
“Agreed,” Commissioner O’Hara then brings up, “I wonder just how many poor young men were subjected to all this.”
“You mean the shanghaiing?” Benton inquires.
Nodding his head “Yes” The commissioner answers shamefully.
“Try,” Benton announces, “Quite a few. Rather more than a few, try maybe several thousand or even more than that. And Commissioner, just remember this here is just one place. There are so many more just like it throughout the strip and throughout the city; all out here to make a profit and not even letting a care that these are people who had to forfeit their lives to survive.”
“I know,” Commissioner O’Hara replies.
“And do you also know Commissioner” Benton says “That the many which are placed on board a ship are subjected to all kinds of hell and most are never seen or heard from again and only a mere few ever make it back alive and come to think of it” scratching the bottom of his chin with his right thumb “I don’t even recall if there ever has been one that actually came back alive or has even been set freed.”
“Neither have I,” the governor replies.
“It’s been said,” Benton continues, “That many have been thrown overboard into the open waters.”
“I know,” Commissioner O’Hara notes, “And we will work on closing all this down. But for now, let’s continue on.”
“Good idea,” Governor Haight replies, “Let’s go see what’s upstairs.”
“Just what I was going to say,” Commissioner O’Hara says and as they quickly leave the cellar they go back up the stairs and then ascending to the upper level they catch sight of a long hallway that leads to a set of doors on each side which are all closed.
Moving quietly and carefully to the first door Commissioner O’Hara presses his ear against the wood listening and after not hearing anything cautiously twists the knob and upon pushing it open reveals a stack of boxes, an empty bed, a dresser with a mirror on top, a pair of nightstands to each side of the bed and an armoire.
Closing the door Stephen Benton with Governor Haight and Commissioner O’Hara in tow cautiously padded forward as they move to the second room across from there to which after he places his ear to the wood, listens and upon not hearing anything carefully opens it.
This time it revealed a room also empty but with piles of discarded clothing strewn about in random fashion and reeking of body odor.
Scrounging up their noses while holding their breaths he quickly closes the door and moves down the hall to the third room and doing as he did before Commissioner O’Hara presses his ear to the wood and upon not hearing anything opens it carefully and cautiously bringing them to another similarly messy-reeking style room.
“They sure don’t know how to keep house,” Governor Haight remarks.
“No,” Benton says, “But they do know how to hold onto prisoners and sometimes their warp minds are so warped that they don’t think too clearly on any other issues.”
“So true,” Governor Haight replies as they continue on.
Reaching a fourth bedroom they notice the duffle bag on the dresser and going over to it, “This must’ve been the ransom that was being used to free Mrs. Barkley,” Benton states.
As they look at it quickly, “Let’s take it with us and,” Governor Haight suggests, “And when we meet with Mr. Barkley later we could give it back to him.”
“A nice idea,” Benton answers.
“Meet with Mr. Barkley?” Commissioner O’Hara inquires.
“Yes,” Governor Haight replies, “When we meet later, we’ll be meeting with him and his family that is if there are no objections with you.”
“What is he suppose to be doing at the meeting?” Commissioner O’Hara wanted to know.
“We’ve been discussing,” Governor Haight mentions, “Closing all this down, he as well as I am looking forward to working on a plan of action to get it started. While there we could talk with his brother and the other boys that witnessed what took place as well as Mrs. Barkley who was kidnapped and the men she was being held down in the cellar with.”
“What time are we planning on meeting with them?” Commissioner O’ Hara asks.
“We decided 5 pm,” Governor Haight replies, “It’ll give them all time to have had a good rest from being exposed to all this.”
“Very well,” Commissioner O’Hara says.
“As soon as we finish here,” Governor Haight insists, “We’ll head over to the Wards’ House.”
“Okay,” Commissioner O’Hara replies.
And as they continue down the hallway they look into each of the rooms that are left to find them similarly like the others.
10/23/11
Reaching the final door they stop and once again pressing his ear against the wood, listens. As Commissioner O’Hara brow narrows “Something wrong?” Governor Haight asks.
Thinking what he heard to be a faint sound “Not sure” Commissioner O’Hara answers, listening from the wood again. There it is again, soft, but a moaning sound.
As he is about to reach for the doorknob Alan comes into view at the top of the stairs calling out, “Father?”
Commissioner O’Hara looking to Alan places a finger over his lips cautioning him to exercise discretion.
“What is it?” Burke asks.
Commissioner O’Hara jerks his thumb at the door, “You heard something?” Alan inquires to which Commissioner O’Hara nods, “I did,” answering quietly.
As both Alan and Burke quietly step forward with Governor Haight and Stephen Benton stepping back, they pull out their guns and as they move to each side of the door, “Ready?” Commissioner O’Hara asks of them as he catches each of their eyes who nod once and quickly throws the door open.
Quickly dropping to one knee, Alan and Burke sweep the room with their weapons, braced, prepared but soon find out that their guns weren’t necessary.
They catch sight of a solitary mattress in the center of the room, the window closed, shade drawn; the air stale and rank worse than the other rooms they were in.
“Well, I’ll be,” was all Burke manages to say.
They all come to realize that the sole occupant of the room was a young woman, about 22 years of age and tied, spread-eagled on top of the mattress, her hands and ankles firmly secured to nails embedded into the floor. Her mouth was gagged with a wad of dirty cloth. She was stark naked, her lean body covered with welts and open sores as well as cuts and scrapes.
As they stood and approached her, “She’s been beaten,” glancing down at her, “Bad,” Alan says, stating the obvious.
The woman’s brown eyes widened in apparent fear and she feebly struggled against her bonds.
“Doesn’t look” Alan then mentions, “Like she’s eaten anything in a long time,” noticing her flat stomach, her skin tight against her ribs.
Kneeling near her head, “Hey lady,” Burke says, “Don’t worry none. My pard and I will get you out of here.”
The woman stopped struggling and stared at them, confused. Burke draws a knife and as she looks at it her eyes opened even further and she renewed her efforts to break free.
Placing a hand on her sweaty brow “Relax” Burke tells her “I said we’re not going to hurt you.”
Touching her hair, “Will you look at this?” Alan says, “Never felt hair like this before.”
The woman suddenly began choking, her body raking by violent spasms.
“Quick,” the commissioner tells him.
As Burke cuts the two ropes holding her ankles, the commissioner pulls the gag from her mouth. She began taking deep breaths, her body shaking. Alan followed by the governor then quickly removes the ropes attached to her wrists. As he is placing his hands under her shoulders, “Take it easy,” Alan tells her and as he is lifting her up, “We’ll get you some water.”
The woman unexpectedly twisted and bounced to her knees, displaying surprising strength, scrambling to one side, grabbing Alan’s gun and leveling it first at Alan, then at Burke, then at the governor, then at Benton and then finally at the commissioner.
“Now, wait a…” Alan begins to say.
Shoving the barrel at his face, “One move,” she tells him, “And I snuff you.”
Grinning, “Will you give me the gun,” Alan says.
“I mean it,” she warns, her voice rising.
“I believe you do, Ma’am,” Alan says.
The woman kept looking from Alan to Burke to the governor to Benton to the commissioner.
Watching as Burke sits down, laughing the woman kept looking from Burke to Alan to Benton to the governor to the commissioner.
“We won’t harm you,” the commissioner informs her.
“How can I be sure of that?” she asks, trying to rise. Her legs were too weak and she sank to her knees.
“If we were going to kill you,” Burke tells her flatly, “You’d be dead right now. We wouldn’t have bothered untying you.”
“You’re not one of them?” she demands.
“No,” the governor replies, “I am Governor Haight and this here,” introducing him, “Is Commissioner O’Hara, he is in charge of the police station.”
“Don’t be lying to me now,” she says.
“We’re not,” Governor Haight followed by the commissioner answers.
Glancing over at the doorway “What happened?” she inquires, “Earlier I heard shooting.”
“We’re not completely sure ourselves yet,” Benton mentions.
“However,” Governor Haight notes, “We believe there was some kind of fight that occurred.”
“Yes,” she says, “I heard some of it,” then studying them some more, “You really are not going to kill me?” asks incredulously.
“Not until,” Burke grinning answers, “You’ve put some clothes on.”
For the first time since she gotten free she finally became conscious of her appearance and upon glancing down at herself, “You sure are a strange one,” she tells Burke, “Don’t matter none, anyhow,” her voice becoming weaker, “I couldn’t stop you. Need food,” mumbling, “Need rest, so tired, so damn tired,” as she slips forward and faints.
tbc
“It’s best if we had you come with us,” Jarrod points out.
“Come with you?” Governor inquires.
“Yes,” Jarrod says, “We need for you to come and see the mess we had to deal with. Believe me, if it wasn’t that important I wouldn’t have made the trip out here at such an early hour like this.”
Pondering the insistence in his answer, “Stephen,” he then insists, “Will you kindly see to getting my horse ready?”
“You’re going with them?” Mr. Benton asks.
“I am,” the governor answers.
“Very well,” Mr. Benton says and while he quickly goes out the door, “Wait here!” the governor informs Jarrod and Nick, “I’ll be right with you.”
Upon returning to the dining room the governor quickly excuses himself, “Pa,” his youngest daughter Mary asks, “Where you going?”
“I have to go out for a few minutes,” the governor informs her.
His wife, Anna tells him, “Hurry back.”
“I will,” he informs her, “Be back as quickly as I can.”
After returning to the front room, the governor quickly leaves with Jarrod and Nick. As they see Benton’s horse as well as the governor’s saddled, “You’re coming with us?” Nick wanted to know.
“The governor,” Benton mentions, “Doesn’t go anywhere without my accompanying him outside of his home.”
“Shall we get started,” the governor suggests and after they all quickly mount up they proceed out the gate with Benton staying very close to the governor.
Back at Jarrod’s
Reaching the log cabin Heath quickly goes inside with Bill, Kyle and Uncle Jim in tow. After finding out where Columbia and Broadway are they quickly walk back out. Meanwhile walking into the Denton’s front door Billy quickly calls out to his mother Sherry who immediately comes into the room upon hearing his voice.
Upon exchanging welcoming hugs, “Oh Billy,” she asks, “You’re alright?”
“I’m fine,” he answers.
Then catching sight of Victoria standing there they go into a quick embrace and then a little bit about what took place and after the quick details Victoria suggests they resume this once they’ve had a good hot breakfast to which Sherry quickly offers the pancake batter that she still has left over.
Agreeing to serve everyone at the cabin Victoria quickly walks back out leaving Billy there.
China Town
As Jim is riding up and down the various roads he comes to he discovers he isn’t getting anywhere and decides to start talking to some of the local men and women he comes in contact with for help. At first those he talks with he is unsuccessful with due to their language barrier but eventually manages to find a couple of men who are able to speak English enough to assist him with the directions in getting there.
Mounting back up he follows the directions given and as he goes down the road of Grant Avenue he notices a small herd of cattle to his far west, and beyond the grazing cows, loomed the imposing mountains. The terrain ahead he comes to begins to gradually rise, forming a rounded hill. As he looks to his far east he could see the water to the Pacific Ocean and continues on Grant Avenue going over the center of the hill.
As he continues looking for the Chinese Fortune Cookie he could feel his stomach churning in anxious anticipation. A quick glance to his far rear he manages to catch sight of a pair of deer running by and as he reaches the crest of the hill he catches sight of a small farmland.
Continuing on the hill he could see another hill about half-mile or so to his north and then as he looks further down he stops and as he finally finds what he is looking for he comes to learn that what he sees is the entrance to a silver mine which just happens to be called the Chinese Fortune Cookie.
Glancing down at the various footprints in the dirt he dismounts and tries to decipher and determine who and what they go to. But just as he starts moving towards them he starts to hear the clatter of hooves galloping up and quickly grabs the reins to his horse and decides to find a safe haven for him and resume the rest of his traveling on foot.
After the riders continue on their way he jogs back down the hill and notices a couple of large boulders which oversees the entrance to the mine while at the same time hidden from the undergrowth and long weeds that override it and considers it the ideal place to hide and watch for Johnny to appear as well as a good spot to watch for the kidnapper, who will be picking up the ransom money.
Back at Jarrod’s
Inside the house as Audra is coming out of the bathroom and heading down the hall she is met by Ed who comes out of his room saying “Goodmorning Audra.”
“Goodmorning Ed” Audra asks “Are you alright? Shouldn’t you still be in bed?”
Nodding his head “I’m alright” Ed says “And as for being in bed” running his hand against his sore ribs “I had enough of that for a little bit, besides I need to know what is going on. Where is everyone?”
“Mother’s home,” Audra informs him.
“Your mother?” Ed asks.
“Yes,” Audra replies, “She just came home a little bit ago.”
“That’s wonderful Audra,” Ed mentions.
“It is,” Audra notes, “It’s the best news I’ve had since first learning of it.”
“I could imagine,” Ed says, “Where are your brothers?”
“Gene went downstairs,” Audra mentions, “And from what I know, Heath just left here with Bill to bring Uncle Jim to see Jim, who just got shot…”
“Shot?” Ed mimics.
“I know as much as you,” Audra notes, “Which isn’t much and as for Jarrod and Nick they went to see the governor.”
“The governor?” Ed says, “Now? This time of the morning?”
“From what I just got out of Gene,” Audra mentions, “That is what he told me. If you want to hear more I suggest you get dressed and come down the stairs that is if you are up to it.”
“I’ll be right there” Ed answers as he takes his turn into the bathroom and Audra resumes going down the hall to her room.
8/23/11
Reaching the doctor’s office and going inside Kyle quickly calls out “Mr. Denton” to Ray who is sitting there quickly stands up and upon facing them “Any word?” Bill asks.
“How is he?” Uncle Jim wanted to know.
“The doctor is in with him now,” Ray mentions.
Just then a woman in her 30’s comes out and says, “Mr. Denton.”
Ray turning his head, “How is he?” asks of her.
“He’ll be alright,” she mentions.
“This is,” Ray says, “Jim’s father.”
“Hello,” she then asks, “Would you like to see him?”
“Please,” he replies.
“Come with me,” she says and quickly escorts them into the room she just came out of, “Ben,” she mentions, “This here is Mr. Barkley.”
“Yes,” the doctor answers, “We’ve met; briefly.”
“Jim,” Uncle Jim says, “How you doing?”
“I’m doing alright Father,” Jim Jr informs him.
“How is he?” Uncle Jim asks watching as the doctor is busy with bandaging up the shoulder.
“He is one lucky fella,” the doctor mentions, “If the bullet was one or two inches closer to the right, he may not be sitting here as we speak.”
“Will he be alright?” Uncle Jim wanted to know.
“If he takes it easy,” The doctor encourages, “Until it heals he should be.”
“Is he well enough to travel?” Uncle Jim then wanted to know.
“I don’t recommend any long distant traveling or riding horseback” the doctor says “But yes, you’re free to take him home just as soon as I finish with him here.”
“How about if I go,” Ray offers, “And bring a buggy back for him?”
“That would be best,” the doctor says.
Ray replies, “I’ll be back shortly,” and quickly heads out the door.
“I do strongly recommend,” the doctor continues, “That once you get him home that he rests and don’t overdue anything until it has a chance to heal” glancing down at Jim Jr, “You hear me Jim?”
“I hear you Doctor,” Jim answers.
“You could be sure of that Doctor,” Uncle Jim mentions.
Glancing up at Heath “And how about you” the doctor asks, “How you feeling?”
“Doing alright” Heath replies.
“You sure?” the doctor asks, “When I took a look at you earlier yesterday you had a low grade fever and were told to rest.”
“I could assure you,” Heath mentions, “I’m alright.”
Glancing up at him “I’m not so sure about that,” the doctor then asks, “How about after I finish with Jim here I take a look at you?” studying his face.
“It’s going to have to wait, Doctor,” Heath says, “We need to be going.”
“Going?” the doctor asks.
“We have to go do something,” Heath mentions, “Uncle Jim, will you be alright?”
“I’ll be alright,” Uncle Jim tells him, “You do know where you’re going?”
“I do” Heath vows.
“Be sure to do what you have to do quickly and safely as possible,” Uncle Jim says, “The same goes for you Bill.”
“We will,” Bill informs him, “And I’ll keep my eye on him.”
“Keep your eye on each other,” Uncle Jim tells him.
Replying “That you could definitely count on” Bill and Heath then quickly walk out of the doctor’s office and upon mounting their horses they leave.
Glancing over at Uncle Jim, “I don’t know where that boy is going,” the doctor brings up, “But he does belong back home in bed.”
“Under normal circumstances,” Uncle Jim replies, “I quite agree with you and if we weren’t so tight on help, that is where he would be at this moment, but unfortunately we didn’t have much of a choice.”
“Well,” the doctor says, “For his sake, what ever he has to be doing I hope it doesn’t worsen his condition.”
“Father,” Jim Jr. asks, “Where is he going?”
“He and Bill,” Uncle Jim mentions, “Are going to try to catch up to Johnny and Jim to let them know they don’t have to continue with the ransom.”
China Town
As it remains rather quiet, Jim waiting patiently for the arrival of both Johnny and the kidnapper to show up, he carefully and quickly shifts his position and crouches down as low as he could possibly get himself to be.
At the Log Cabin
Victoria is seated at the table eating her breakfast with Ed, the men that she brought back with her and the rest of the children with Audra and Gene seated on each side of her with Sherry serving them.
Starting off the conversation around the table, “Ed,” Victoria asks, “How you doing this morning?”
“I’m doing alright,” Ed answers.
“From what I understand,” Victoria brings up, “You should be in bed.”
“I couldn’t stay in bed any longer,” Ed mentions, “I was going stir crazy being there as long as I was.”
“I heard a little about what happened,” Victoria mentions.
“How much do you know?” Ed wanted to know.
“I heard you got jumped,” Victoria mentions, “While trying to deliver the ransom for my release. And that you have several broken ribs.”
“That’s pretty much the size of it,” Ed notes, “I didn’t see whoever it was coming.”
“It’s alright,” Victoria says, “I want to thank you for trying.”
“Hey,” Ed mentions, “I would do it all over again if I had to.”
“I know you would,” Victoria notes.
As Sherry sits and joins them at the table with her cup of coffee in hand she inquires about what happened with Gene and the boys meeting up with Victoria to which Gene mentions them heading down the back alleyway to what led them to the fight that occurred followed by the murder they eventually witnessed and then while at the same time being surrounded by the captors who were holding Victoria and the other men around the table.
After listening to it “You were all extremely lucky” Sherry mentions.
“Mother,” Billy says, “I was never so scared in my life.”
“Nor I,” Neil mentions, “They were going to kill us.”
“You now know why,” Sherry notes, “It’s not safe to venture out that late at night.”
“We only did it,” Todd brings up, “To help Gene find Mrs. Barkley.”
“I understand that,” Sherry says, “But, please don’t do something like that ever again.”
“We won’t, Mother” Billy vows.
“Audra, Gene,” Victoria then asks, “Could you tell me how it is you managed to get here?”
Letting out a deep sigh, “It was an accident,” Gene mentions.
“How’s that?” Victoria wanted to know.
As Gene and Audra exchange glances Gene says, “When we learned you were being held for ransom, Jarrod sent us a wire asking us to meet them when the train arrived to find out more about the letter we received.”
“How did Jarrod find out?” Victoria wanted to know.
“Sorry Aunt Victoria,” Ed says, “I thought they had a right to know and sent a quick wire.”
“So did I” Gene brings up.
“That explains how they came to be here,” Victoria says, “But how did the two of you manage to be here as well.”
Part 414
“After meeting the train,” Audra replies, “We filled them in on what we knew and got off and were starting to head back to school.”
“But then,” Gene says, “As the train was leaving…”
“Yes?” Victoria urges, “Continue.”
Swallowing hard “We” glancing over at Audra “Just ran after it” Eugene mentions.
With his mouth wide opened “You stowed away on a train?” Todd joining in inquires.
“It was an accident,” Audra mentions.
“What was it like?” Neil asks, “I never did anything like that before.”
“Actually,” Audra states, “Scary.”
“Gene, Audra,” Victoria then asks, “What on Earth possessed the two of you to do something like that?”
“We didn’t mean to do it,” Gene says, “It just sort of happened.”
“We know Mother,” Audra says, “What we did was wrong.”
“It was more than wrong Audra,” Victoria states, “It’s breaking of the law.”
“Mother,” Gene says, “At the time we did it, we didn’t think of it as breaking a law, we were just so worried about you that we just didn’t think.”
“I understand that Gene,” Victoria replies, “And don’t think I’m not grateful for what you did, because I am, but you also were taking an awful risk by doing that.”
“We know Mother” Audra says “But at the time we weren’t thinking too clearly and when we saw the train there and pulling out we just took a chance and did it.”
“You’re both lucky to be getting off so lightly,” Victoria tells them, “Not to mention to be alive. You could’ve gotten yourselves killed by trying to do something like that.”
“Lightly?” Gene mimics, “When we get back to the ranch, we have a 30 day sentence to make up for it thanks to Jarrod.”
“Well” Victoria says, “It’ll serve you both right. It’ll give you an opportunity to think about what you did and to teach you a lesson about even considering doing something so dangerous and irresponsible again; but for right now how about if we go onto something else.”
“That might be best,” Audra then replies.
As they eat they go onto other topics such as what occurred at the waterfront with the men being placed on board ships and the crimps getting paid for it as well as some of the other men they saw sleeping in the cellars of the various establishments, not to mention the men Victoria brought back with her almost in the same boat as them.
Then bringing up some of the other things they saw on the way they mention the couple doing more than just kissing and as the boys each start going into some of the details of what they saw Audra with her eyes opened wide asks, “They did what?”
Quickly cutting them off Victoria says, “Okay, I think that will be it for now.”
“Oh Mother,” comes from Gene and Audra.
“You heard me,” Victoria says.
“Darn,” Gene replies, “Just when it’s about to get good, we have to stop.”
“When you’re a little older,” Victoria mentions, “You’ll understand more.”
“That’s what you always say,” Gene snickers.
“With certain things” Victoria says “Sometimes its best until you’re old enough to comprehend it, it’ll also give you something to look back on and say; now I understand it. Glad I did wait. And you’ll also appreciate the rewards that come with it for waiting. But for now, finish up so you could turn in. I’m sure you’re all extremely tired.”
“I am,” Todd mentions.
“So am I,” Billy says.
“I’m not,” Audra replies, “I just woke up.”
“Yes, I know dear,” Victoria says, “You could stay awake and give me a hand with cleaning up in here.”
“Sure Mother,” Audra replies.
Turning to each of the men, “How you fellas doing?” Victoria wanted to know.
“Much better now,” Ferdinand mentions, “Now that we are completely away from there.”
“This breakfast,” Paul says, “Is a lot better than what we had to have.”
“Just think,” Victoria brings up, “This is just only the beginning. As soon as you’ve all had a goodnight sleep and really rested give it time but, things will start to get better.”
“They already have,” Vern replies, “Just by being out of there.”
“Indeed yes,” Dean notes.
“I do feel bad,” Terry brings up, “About Robert though.”
“So do I,” Victoria mentions, “I could never be able to thank him enough for what he did.”
Watching as she begins to have tears in her eyes “Aunt Victoria” Ed says, “Don’t do this to yourself” placing his hand on her arm.
“I can’t help it Ed,” Victoria mentions, “Because of what he did I am here now. He saved my life…”
Placing her hand on her other arm, “Mother,” Audra says.
“I’m alright Audra,” Victoria replies, “I just feel so bad for him.”
“If there’s any consolation to all this,” Terry says, “We could at least say that those who were responsible got what was coming to them.”
“True,” Victoria replies, “But even though they were terrible people I still feel sorry for them, sorry for anyone who has to die.”
“Sometimes,” Ed says, “It can’t be helped.”
“I know that too,” Victoria replies, “How I wish we could all live in a peaceful society and not have to worry about people being out there who don’t think twice about being nasty and just doing things for the sake of money.”
“Well, it’s been said,” Ed brings up, “That money is what is known as the root of all evil. As much as we can’t live without it there are people out there who will just do whatever they can to get it even if means taking someone else’s life. Those kinds of people you can’t even reason with and we can’t really do much about. I mean they all started out as someone’s small child. You often have to wonder just what makes these evil people grow up to be the evil person they become what makes them go to such great lengths to even consider doing what they did.”
As everyone around the table turns silent and as she observes each one of them keeping their attention on her, “I’ll be alright.”
“Mother,” Audra suggests, “It may not be much, but how about if we say a little prayer for him.”
Nodding her head, “That we could do Audra,” Victoria says showing a little smile and as everyone stops eating they all bow their heads in a moment in silence as Victoria says a little prayer for him upon responding, “Amen,” they all resume eating in silence.
China Town
Johnny who is now coming up on Green Street also being baffled by where he needs to go starts asking directions from the local men and women he comes into contact with.
As he starts running into snags due to the language barrier he continues talking and asking for help until he manages to find someone who is able to speak English and give him directions to it.
As he talks to the gentlemen one of them mention, “You’re the second person who have asked us about that in the last few minutes.”
“Is that right?” he asks.
“Yes,” comes from one of them.
“Just need to locate it,” he mentions.
After talking amongst themselves they decide to give him the directions needed and he kindly thanks them and proceeds onto Grant Avenue.
“What would two of them want with that, Lee?” the first man asks, “There’s nothing there and hasn’t been anything for quite some time.”
“Not sure,” comes from Lee, “Maybe they just heard about it and just wanted to see it for themselves.”
“Could be,” comes from the second man.
Back Alleyway of Mission Street
As Jarrod and Nick bring the governor to the back alleyway of where the battle took place, the governor atop his mount, as well as Mr. Benton is getting a first hard look at the sight before him, the many dead bodies lying in the street.
“Oh, my,” comes from Benton.
Disgusted and grimacing, “Disgraceful Jarrod,” the governor says, “All those poor boys,” shaking his head in dastardly disbelief, “And your mother.”
“I thought you would feel this way, Governor” Jarrod notes.
“Even though I knew of it,” the governor mentions, “Looking at it here and now I didn’t really have to take a hard look at what was happening until now.”
“And you said,” Mr. Benton brings up, “Your brother was exposed to all this?”
“He was,” Nick answers, “And so were the other boys that he came here with.”
As they dismount and start scouting about they first go over to the dead body of Robert, “This one here,” Jarrod states, “Was one of the ones being held by the same men that were holding our Mother.”
With his hands behind him, “This is so sad,” The governor notes, “So terrible. Which building was he in?” glancing about.
“That one there” Nick says “The Missionary” as he points to it to their right.
“Did you go inside?” the governor wanted to know.
“No,” Nick answers.
“We thought it best,” Jarrod says, “To leave everything as you see it so that you could see for yourself what took place. And this is just only the beginning.”
“You did quite right Jarrod,” the governor notes, “And you said that your brother and the other boys witnessed the murder?”
“Yes” Jarrod says “In that building there” pointing to the Wards’ House “Is where the murder took place. And if we didn’t come along they may have been as well.”
“Thank goodness,” the governor replies, “I am so glad that your mother and your brother not to mention the other boys with them are now safely away from here. I am so sorry that they had to be exposed to any of this.”
“So are we Governor,” Jarrod says, “But now that you see what is here I think you know it’s time for all this to come to a complete end.”
“I do, yes,” the governor replies, “And I do plan on it. I did have a meeting scheduled with the police commissioner later on in the day but I think in lieu of what occurred here I plan on going to see him a lot sooner than that.”
“That might be best,” Jarrod notes.
Jarrod then brings up, “I should point out that there may still be men inside that haven’t been freed yet. You may want to help them.”
“You are so right,” the governor vows, “And I assure you I will. But for now how about if the two of you went on home and leave the cleaning up to us. Later on, I would like to talk to the men that were being held along with your mother, not to mention your brother and the boys that witnessed all this.”
“That shouldn’t be much of a problem” Jarrod says “My brother is staying at my place and the boys have been staying over at Mr. Denton’s. How about if you came by and talked with them after they all had a chance to recuperate from all this and had a goodnight sleep? They’ve been up all night and are extremely tired.”
“I’m sure you’re probably just as tired,” the governor notes.
“We are,” Jarrod says, “But we still have one more little item to contend with. So how about if we meet you back at my house let’s say 5 pm?”
Nodding his head, “5 p.m. it is,” The governor announces and with that Jarrod and Nick make their quick departure from the alleyway and after grabbing their horses they head down the street.
9/14/11
The governor, who after looks over at the dead body of Vic draped over the side of a horse with Mr. Benton beside him, shakes his head once again in utter disgust and then after letting out a strong sigh “Governor” Mr. Benton says “We can’t stay.”
“Come on Stephen,” the governor urges, “Let’s go see O’Hara.”
After mounting back up with Benton in the lead they head out away from the alley and as they come up to Fremont they take a right onto Market to which they then take a quick left onto Battery in pursuit of the police station that is housed on Vallejo Street.
Meanwhile, Jarrod and Nick after exiting Mission Street heads down Montgomery on their way to Columbus and Broadway to hopefully meet up and intercept Bill and Heath who are trying to catch up to Jim and Johnny.
Back at the log cabin, after the boys finish their breakfast they turn in while Sarah, Sue Ann and Melanie assist Victoria and Sherry with fixing make shift cots in the far back room for the five men that will be occupying them; the younger children Noah, Penny and Kimmy are in the main room helping with clearing the table while Audra and Diane are busy with doing the dishes in the kitchen.
Returning to the house, Ray assists Uncle Jim with helping Jim Jr into bed while Kyle quickly goes back to the log cabin to let them know they’ve returned.
“Oh good,” Victoria says, “I’ll be right back” who is now in the kitchen assisting Sherry and the girls with the rest of the kitchen clean-up.
“Kyle,” Sherry asks, “Are you hungry?”
“I am,” Kyle admits.
“Victoria” Sherry says “How about if I fix Kyle his breakfast while you go turn in?”
“I can’t turn in,” Victoria informs her, “Until the rest of the family returns.”
“Very well,” Sherry says.
“Mother,” Audra offers, “How about if I come with you?”
“Sure dear,” Victoria replies and as she and Audra stop what they are doing they quickly head out the door while Sherry urges Kyle to go back to the house to get cleaned up while she works on getting his breakfast ready of pancakes and sausage. She has her daughter reset the table with the help of the other girls for Kyle and the others who will be returning that haven’t eaten yet.
Going inside Jarrod’s, Victoria and Audra quickly go up the stairs to find out how Jim Jr is doing. Once he’s fallen asleep and they are assured he is alright Victoria manages to persuade Jim Sr. to go with her and Ray over to the log cabin to have some breakfast. While he is doing that Audra volunteers to remain at the house to watch over Jim Jr.
Part 415
9/16/11
Police Station
Arriving at the Police Station both the governor and Mr. Benton walk inside side-by-side. Catching sight of Alan behind the desk “Alan” the governor calls out.
Quickly getting up out of his seat “Goodmorning Governor Haight,” Alan replies, “What brings you down this way at such an early hour of the morning?” as he extends his hand out to him.
Taking the offered hand “I came to see your father” the governor asks “Is he in?”
“Yes,” Alan answers.
“Could you let him know I am here,” the governor says, “And that I have to speak with him?”
“Certainly,” Alan answers and quickly going to the back office, “Father,” he calls out, “Governor Haight and Mr. Benton are here to see you.”
“Send them in Alan,” the Commissioner tells him.
And quickly going back out front Alan escorts them to the back office and upon getting out of his seat he immediately greets the governor and Mr. Brady accordingly and then asks, “What brings you out so early?”
“You,” The governor says.
“I don’t understand,” the commissioner replies.
“I know we have plans on meeting later on,” the governor brings up, “But for right now it’s imperative that I came out now to get you.”
“Get me?” The Commissioner asks.
“Yes,” Governor Haight answers, “That is what I just said.”
“Get me for what?” the Commissioner then says, “It sounds serious.”
“I never been so serious in my life Jeff!” the governor tells him “It’s time you’ve started to uphold the law that you’ve been commissioned to do” sternly, “It’s time you took a hard look at what is going on in your city.”
“I don’t understand,” the commissioner repeats.
“No,” the governor says, “But you will.”
“What’s happened?” the commissioner wanted to know.
“You’ll see” the governor announces “It’s what we plan on addressing at the meeting later on. But for right now, bring a couple of your most trusted officers with you, we or should I say you have work to do.”
“Where are we going?” the Commissioner asks.
“You’ll see when we get there,” the governor announces.
“Give me a minute,” the commissioner says, “How many men do you think I should bring with us?”
“For right now,” the governor suggests, “Bring 2 and a wagon.”
“A wagon?” the commissioner asks.
“Yes,” the governor replies, “Now, let’s get moving.”
And quickly exiting the room the commissioner followed by the governor and Mr. Benton go out into the front room. While Commissioner O’Hara calls on his son to retrieve a wagon, the governor and Mr. Benton go outside to wait for them.
Once Commissioner O’Hara grabs his two most trusted officers he has working for him which just happens to be a man named Burke and his son Alan, he leaves the desk in the hands of Officer Reynolds who happens to be a man in his thirties, with thinning light brown hair parted on the side.
Upon telling him, “We’ll be back as soon as we can,” he exits the station and joins the governor, Mr. Benton and his son, who now has a wagon hitched up waiting.
“I don’t know what this is all about,” the commissioner says, “But let’s get started,” as they all mount up, “Which way?” he asks of the governor who replies, “Follow us,” and then glancing over at Benton, “Lead the way Stephen,” and with that Mr. Benton leads the way with the governor riding slightly behind him, the commissioner alongside of him, Alan next to his father with the wagon being driven by Burke, right behind them.
Exiting the police station they take a right onto Vallejo Street and upon reaching the corner they proceed down onto Hyde Street heading south.
Back at the Log Cabin
While the men and Kyle have all turned in, Victoria is busy with cleaning the next round of dishes from the table and upon stopping suddenly “Mother” Audra observing says “Why don’t you let me finish doing that and you go get some sleep?”
“I can’t sleep Audra,” Victoria replies, “Not until everyone has come back home.”
As Victoria starts crying, “Mother,” Audra then asks, “What’s wrong?”
“Oh, it’s nothing” Victoria answers.
Placing her hand on her shoulder “Mother,” Audra says, “It has to be something.”
“Oh, I don’t know Audra,” sniffling, “I’ve just been thinking of everything that led up to this moment,” she mentions, “Your brothers out there trying to find the men, the governor, getting him to see what happened at that place,” while patting Audra’s hand, “Jim came very close to losing his life, not to mention those young boys as well as your own brother Gene,” Victoria closing her eyes then says, “I came very close to losing your brother Gene tonight. Oh Audra, I don’t know.”
“Mother,” Audra brings up, “Jim is going to be fine and so is Gene and from what I understand if it hadn’t been for him or the other boys, you may not be here right now at all either. You may still be in the hands of the kidnappers and I would still be sitting here wondering and worrying about you.”
Nodding her head “I know dear” Victoria says “But looking back” drawing Audra closer to her “So much has happened and yet,” running her hands through her long blonde hair “We have so much work left to do.”
“Mother,” Audra then replies, “Everything will work out. You always told me we have to rely on fate and faith and just be thankful that the family is finally back together again after a long hard couple of weeks. And pretty soon, once we’ve finished here we could start moving forward and putting all this behind us once and for all,” smiling, “And when we return to Stockton we could start going back to our normal regular every day to day routine of a life without ever having to worry about someone ever coming after Heath or Gene or you for that matter. When we awaken,” pausing, “We could wake up to a promising new day.”
“Audra,” Victoria then says, “Being a Barkley will always keep a price over our heads no matter what the circumstances and I could never stop worrying about someone trying to come after any one of us.”
“True” Audra replies “But as it has been said many times over, there’s strength in numbers which makes us Barkleys even so much more invincible. We stand behind one another through thick and thin, no matter what. If someone comes after any one of us they have to deal with us going after them and as Nick always said they will regret the day they even tried, making us even much stronger because of it.”
“I won’t argue with you on that,” Victoria notes, “I remember your father use to say that on many occasions.”
“Well,” Audra states, “I am his daughter and do have a lot of him inside me.”
“You won’t get any argument from me on that,” Victoria says.
“On several occasions, when ever he and I talked he use to say something similar to that to me as well; which is what made me bring it up. And,” she goes on to say, “If you just look at what happened when the trouble began, when those men came after Heath, the family was there to help him. When Uncle Jim learned he had a new nephew he stopped what he was doing, grabbed a train and came out to the ranch to meet him. When he and we learned you were in trouble and taken hostage, cousin Jim and Jack both managed to stop what they were doing grabbed a train and came all the way out here and Jim lives all the way down in Florida and yet he still came. Even Jarrod, Nick and Heath while they were busy up in Echo Lake stopped what they were doing and just came right down to San Francisco here as fast as they were able to.”
“Yes, they did,” Victoria replies, “And what about you and Gene? You also stopped what you were doing to be here.”
“We did” Audra says “I know now” rolling her eyes up “We didn’t use the best approach in coming here but we didn’t think of that at the time. We just had to come here.”
“I know” Victoria then brings up “And if your father was here now” grabbing hold of her chin “He would be very proud of his daughter” lifting her head upwards “Not so much about how you stowed away on a train but hearing the wisdom of his words.”
“I wish he was here Mother,” Audra admits.
“I know and so do I,” Victoria admits “I will admit however, you did a great job of trying to distract my thoughts with other thoughts but it doesn’t stop me now from worrying or thinking.”
Placing her hand on her shoulder “I know,” Audra sympathetically replies.
“It did,” Victoria states, “Help with enlightening the situation a little.”
“At least that’s something,” Audra notes.
“It is,” Victoria admits, “And you’re right nothing could or would ever stop this family from being there for one another.”
“No,” Audra says, “It wouldn’t and it doesn’t stop me from worrying or thinking either, it only helps more knowing that this family stands behind one another once again through thick and thin.”
“Agreed,” Victoria mentions.
“And you know,” Audra brings up, “Once everyone has come back home after finishing with what they are doing, we have to work on this Sunday coming up.”
“Sunday?” Victoria mumbles, “Oh yes, Easter Sunday. I almost nearly forgot.”
“With everything that took place,” Audra says, “I could see how it would slip your mind so I thought I’d mention it. You did want us to all be together for this Sunday. And this Easter Sunday will be Heath’s very first with the family.”
“That’s right too,” Victoria notes, “We have to think of doing something special.”
“Like what?” Audra asks.
“Not sure,” Victoria says, “But let’s finish cleaning up in here and then we could work on that.”
“What about your sleep?” Audra asks.
“I can’t sleep until everyone got back home,” Victoria says, “And you’re bringing up Easter has helped get my mind off of everything. Thanks Audra.”
“No problem,” Audra notes, “I knew if I’d look I would find it.”
Kissing the top of Audra’s head “And it did” Victoria says as she quietly still thinks of everything that occurred in between wiping away the tears from her eyes and resuming cleaning up the table with Audra assisting her quietly.
Mission Street
As the governor, Mr. Benton, Commissioner O’Hara, his son Alan and Burke approach the back alleyway, “Be prepared,” the governor informs the Commissioner.
“It’s bad?” Commissioner O’Hara asks.
“Very,” The governor notes.
Turning the corner and heading down the alleyway from where the battle took place the commissioner atop his mount says “Oh my” looking at the dead bodies in the street.
“Father,” Alan announces in horror, “Look!”
“I see it, Alan,” Commissioner O’Hara mentions.
“I thought you would feel this way,” the governor notes.
“What happened?” The commissioner asks, as they dismount and he absorbs the entire situation before him.
“You really want me to spell it out for you?” the governor inquires.
“You see those bodies there,” Benton cuts in with.
“Of course I see them,” Commissioner O’Hara mentions.
“A fight broke out” Benton says “A kidnapping and a murder all in one for starters. And that’s all we know so far when we stopped to come and get you.”
“You said a kidnapping?” Commissioner O’Hara wanted to know.
“That’s what I said,” Benton mentions, “It seems the local citizens decided to take matters into their own hands because they didn’t know who in the police station they could come to or trust who is supposed to be upholding the law and being there for their citizens.”
“Who was kidnapped?” Commissioner O’Hara asks.
“Mrs. Barkley,” Governor Haight mentions.
“Mrs. Barkley?” Commissioner O’Hara confused inquires.
“Yes,” Governor Haight replies, “Now we don’t know all the details ourselves yet but apparently her sons managed to rescue her on their own and while they attempted doing that, a fight broke out as Stephen stated and a murder at the result of the fight.”
“Who was responsible?” Commissioner O’Hara asks.
“You mean the fight?” Governor Haight asks, “The murder; the kidnapping?”
“Yes,” Commissioner O’Hara answers.
“We’re not really sure yet,” Governor Haight notes, “But the fight and the murder had to do with what occurred at the Wards’ House there,” pointing, “And the kidnapping, took place there,” indicating the Missionary.
“I was not aware of any of this,” Commissioner O’Hara mentions.
“Of course not,” Governor Haight says, “But it’s time you did come out from your back office and face the real world here Jeff and learn about what is going on. A crime was committed actually two or more and yet no one wanted to go to the police to even report it.”
“And,” Benton brings up, “If you and your police force did their job from the start and instead of taking bribes, looking the other way or having the local citizens not wanting to come to you for fear of what may happen, then this kind of thing could’ve been avoided long ago.”
“He’s right Father,” Alan replies.
“I know Alan” Commissioner O’Hara says “And I agree it’s time all this came to an end.”
“Now you’re talking,” Governor Haight replies.
As he really studies and begins comprehending the situation, “Alan,” Commissioner O’Hara suggests, “Why don’t you and Burke take care of the bodies while I go with the Governor?”
“Sure Father,” Alan replies and while he and Burke move towards each of the victims on the ground nearest the Wards’ House, Commissioner O’Hara goes with Governor Haight and Benton over to the Missionary.
Reaching the back doorway and peering inside they notice it to be the kitchen. Glancing about they see a table and chairs in the center of the room, with dishes and glasses on top some half-full, to the right a flight of stairs with a door to the right of that and to their left a countertop with a sink basin in the center with cabinets suspended above and a wood burning stove to its right.
Carefully stepping inside they observe the mess not only on the table but on the counter top, in the sink and the cabinets slightly opened. Raising an eyebrow they just ignore it and proceed to the other side of the room which brings them to another doorway which leads to the main room.
The main room has a table in the center with a deck of cards, dishes and glasses half-full on top. To the right a flight of stairs and to the left a bar which runs the length of the room with ten stools in front of the counter.
Walking over to it they carefully look about and catching sight of a lever behind on the other side, “Well, I’ll be,” the commissioner says.
“You do know what its purpose is,” Benton mentions.
As he goes over to it “Of course I do,” Commissioner O’Hara replies, “This is how they capture their prospective candidates.”
“Very good,” Benton announces.
“I may have been in the back room for too long,” Commissioner O’Hara states, “But that doesn’t mean I am that naïve.”
“No” Governor Haight replies “However, at least now by being out here you do see more of what is happening than you did before.”
“That is true,” Commissioner O’Hara then says, “Stand back,” and as he pulls on the lever the governor and Benton quickly step back and they all observe in astounding amazement at the floor opening up and one of the bar stools disappearing.
“Well,” Benton then replies, “Look at that.”
“Come on,” the governor insists and as they quickly exit the room they go back into the kitchen and seeing the door that leads downstairs to the cellar they immediately head down there.
Part 416
Reaching the door that is bolted shut they each look about for the key with the commissioner managing to find it hidden away above the ledge over the door. Placing the key into the hole he unlocks it and upon going inside they catch sight of the dirty old mattress just below the opened ceiling with the bar stool on its side.
“So,” Benton says, “This is how they snatch their captives.”
“Look here,” the commissioner announces and going over to the broken window.
“This must be how,” Benton states, “Mrs. Barkley and the others that were being held down here got free.”
“That would be my assumption,” Governor Haight notes, “Thank god for that.”
“Agreed,” Commissioner O’Hara then brings up, “I wonder just how many poor young men were subjected to all this.”
“You mean the shanghaiing?” Benton inquires.
Nodding his head “Yes” The commissioner answers shamefully.
“Try,” Benton announces, “Quite a few. Rather more than a few, try maybe several thousand or even more than that. And Commissioner, just remember this here is just one place. There are so many more just like it throughout the strip and throughout the city; all out here to make a profit and not even letting a care that these are people who had to forfeit their lives to survive.”
“I know,” Commissioner O’Hara replies.
“And do you also know Commissioner” Benton says “That the many which are placed on board a ship are subjected to all kinds of hell and most are never seen or heard from again and only a mere few ever make it back alive and come to think of it” scratching the bottom of his chin with his right thumb “I don’t even recall if there ever has been one that actually came back alive or has even been set freed.”
“Neither have I,” the governor replies.
“It’s been said,” Benton continues, “That many have been thrown overboard into the open waters.”
“I know,” Commissioner O’Hara notes, “And we will work on closing all this down. But for now, let’s continue on.”
“Good idea,” Governor Haight replies, “Let’s go see what’s upstairs.”
“Just what I was going to say,” Commissioner O’Hara says and as they quickly leave the cellar they go back up the stairs and then ascending to the upper level they catch sight of a long hallway that leads to a set of doors on each side which are all closed.
Moving quietly and carefully to the first door Commissioner O’Hara presses his ear against the wood listening and after not hearing anything cautiously twists the knob and upon pushing it open reveals a stack of boxes, an empty bed, a dresser with a mirror on top, a pair of nightstands to each side of the bed and an armoire.
Closing the door Stephen Benton with Governor Haight and Commissioner O’Hara in tow cautiously padded forward as they move to the second room across from there to which after he places his ear to the wood, listens and upon not hearing anything carefully opens it.
This time it revealed a room also empty but with piles of discarded clothing strewn about in random fashion and reeking of body odor.
Scrounging up their noses while holding their breaths he quickly closes the door and moves down the hall to the third room and doing as he did before Commissioner O’Hara presses his ear to the wood and upon not hearing anything opens it carefully and cautiously bringing them to another similarly messy-reeking style room.
“They sure don’t know how to keep house,” Governor Haight remarks.
“No,” Benton says, “But they do know how to hold onto prisoners and sometimes their warp minds are so warped that they don’t think too clearly on any other issues.”
“So true,” Governor Haight replies as they continue on.
Reaching a fourth bedroom they notice the duffle bag on the dresser and going over to it, “This must’ve been the ransom that was being used to free Mrs. Barkley,” Benton states.
As they look at it quickly, “Let’s take it with us and,” Governor Haight suggests, “And when we meet with Mr. Barkley later we could give it back to him.”
“A nice idea,” Benton answers.
“Meet with Mr. Barkley?” Commissioner O’Hara inquires.
“Yes,” Governor Haight replies, “When we meet later, we’ll be meeting with him and his family that is if there are no objections with you.”
“What is he suppose to be doing at the meeting?” Commissioner O’Hara wanted to know.
“We’ve been discussing,” Governor Haight mentions, “Closing all this down, he as well as I am looking forward to working on a plan of action to get it started. While there we could talk with his brother and the other boys that witnessed what took place as well as Mrs. Barkley who was kidnapped and the men she was being held down in the cellar with.”
“What time are we planning on meeting with them?” Commissioner O’ Hara asks.
“We decided 5 pm,” Governor Haight replies, “It’ll give them all time to have had a good rest from being exposed to all this.”
“Very well,” Commissioner O’Hara says.
“As soon as we finish here,” Governor Haight insists, “We’ll head over to the Wards’ House.”
“Okay,” Commissioner O’Hara replies.
And as they continue down the hallway they look into each of the rooms that are left to find them similarly like the others.
10/23/11
Reaching the final door they stop and once again pressing his ear against the wood, listens. As Commissioner O’Hara brow narrows “Something wrong?” Governor Haight asks.
Thinking what he heard to be a faint sound “Not sure” Commissioner O’Hara answers, listening from the wood again. There it is again, soft, but a moaning sound.
As he is about to reach for the doorknob Alan comes into view at the top of the stairs calling out, “Father?”
Commissioner O’Hara looking to Alan places a finger over his lips cautioning him to exercise discretion.
“What is it?” Burke asks.
Commissioner O’Hara jerks his thumb at the door, “You heard something?” Alan inquires to which Commissioner O’Hara nods, “I did,” answering quietly.
As both Alan and Burke quietly step forward with Governor Haight and Stephen Benton stepping back, they pull out their guns and as they move to each side of the door, “Ready?” Commissioner O’Hara asks of them as he catches each of their eyes who nod once and quickly throws the door open.
Quickly dropping to one knee, Alan and Burke sweep the room with their weapons, braced, prepared but soon find out that their guns weren’t necessary.
They catch sight of a solitary mattress in the center of the room, the window closed, shade drawn; the air stale and rank worse than the other rooms they were in.
“Well, I’ll be,” was all Burke manages to say.
They all come to realize that the sole occupant of the room was a young woman, about 22 years of age and tied, spread-eagled on top of the mattress, her hands and ankles firmly secured to nails embedded into the floor. Her mouth was gagged with a wad of dirty cloth. She was stark naked, her lean body covered with welts and open sores as well as cuts and scrapes.
As they stood and approached her, “She’s been beaten,” glancing down at her, “Bad,” Alan says, stating the obvious.
The woman’s brown eyes widened in apparent fear and she feebly struggled against her bonds.
“Doesn’t look” Alan then mentions, “Like she’s eaten anything in a long time,” noticing her flat stomach, her skin tight against her ribs.
Kneeling near her head, “Hey lady,” Burke says, “Don’t worry none. My pard and I will get you out of here.”
The woman stopped struggling and stared at them, confused. Burke draws a knife and as she looks at it her eyes opened even further and she renewed her efforts to break free.
Placing a hand on her sweaty brow “Relax” Burke tells her “I said we’re not going to hurt you.”
Touching her hair, “Will you look at this?” Alan says, “Never felt hair like this before.”
The woman suddenly began choking, her body raking by violent spasms.
“Quick,” the commissioner tells him.
As Burke cuts the two ropes holding her ankles, the commissioner pulls the gag from her mouth. She began taking deep breaths, her body shaking. Alan followed by the governor then quickly removes the ropes attached to her wrists. As he is placing his hands under her shoulders, “Take it easy,” Alan tells her and as he is lifting her up, “We’ll get you some water.”
The woman unexpectedly twisted and bounced to her knees, displaying surprising strength, scrambling to one side, grabbing Alan’s gun and leveling it first at Alan, then at Burke, then at the governor, then at Benton and then finally at the commissioner.
“Now, wait a…” Alan begins to say.
Shoving the barrel at his face, “One move,” she tells him, “And I snuff you.”
Grinning, “Will you give me the gun,” Alan says.
“I mean it,” she warns, her voice rising.
“I believe you do, Ma’am,” Alan says.
The woman kept looking from Alan to Burke to the governor to Benton to the commissioner.
Watching as Burke sits down, laughing the woman kept looking from Burke to Alan to Benton to the governor to the commissioner.
“We won’t harm you,” the commissioner informs her.
“How can I be sure of that?” she asks, trying to rise. Her legs were too weak and she sank to her knees.
“If we were going to kill you,” Burke tells her flatly, “You’d be dead right now. We wouldn’t have bothered untying you.”
“You’re not one of them?” she demands.
“No,” the governor replies, “I am Governor Haight and this here,” introducing him, “Is Commissioner O’Hara, he is in charge of the police station.”
“Don’t be lying to me now,” she says.
“We’re not,” Governor Haight followed by the commissioner answers.
Glancing over at the doorway “What happened?” she inquires, “Earlier I heard shooting.”
“We’re not completely sure ourselves yet,” Benton mentions.
“However,” Governor Haight notes, “We believe there was some kind of fight that occurred.”
“Yes,” she says, “I heard some of it,” then studying them some more, “You really are not going to kill me?” asks incredulously.
“Not until,” Burke grinning answers, “You’ve put some clothes on.”
For the first time since she gotten free she finally became conscious of her appearance and upon glancing down at herself, “You sure are a strange one,” she tells Burke, “Don’t matter none, anyhow,” her voice becoming weaker, “I couldn’t stop you. Need food,” mumbling, “Need rest, so tired, so damn tired,” as she slips forward and faints.
tbc
