Post by sandymarek on Mar 17, 2012 20:49:50 GMT -4
Part 417
Quickly responding Alan catches her and lowers her to the mattress, “She sure has a lot of spunk, doesn’t she?”
“We need to get her to a doctor,” Commissioner O’Hara notes.
“I’ll take her,” Burke volunteers.
Just then Benton walks in carrying a robe and a blanket.
“Good thinking,” the governor tells him.
Upon dressing her, “You know,” Alan says, “She kind of reminds me of someone.”
“Who?” Burke asks.
“Someone I was once very fond of,” Alan mentions, “Her name was Joan,” sadly he adds, “She was a beautiful woman” then upon staring at the unconscious form, “You know what, I will take her.”
Slapping him lightly on the shoulder “Go ahead Alan” Commissioner O’Hara then advises “But let’s be careful with her,” and gently they all lift her up and with Alan taking the lead carry her down the stairs and outside to one of the nearby horses and after Alan gets up behind the woman he quickly departs.
Burke then asks, “Who was the woman Alan was referring to?”
“Joan,” Commissioner O’Hara answers, “She was someone very close to Alan.”
“What happened to her?” Burke wanted to know.
“She was killed,” Commissioner O’Hara mentions, “Come on, we have more work to do,” and not saying another word, they as well as the governor and Benton head for the Wards’ Home.
11/12/11
China Town
Upon reaching the entrance of Columbia and Broadway which happens to be another street that has rows of woods on both sides and beyond Bill notices Heath suddenly becoming tense and asks, “Heath, you alright?”
As he glances about Heath nods his head replying, “I am.”
As he constantly looks from one side of the wooded stretch to the other, “What is it?” Bill asks “Something bothering you?”
Shaking head, “NO,” Heath replies, “I just get this funny feeling but I can’t explain why.”
“Have you ever been down this way before?” Bill inquires.
“Once,” Heath answers, “Come on,” and leading the way they go up Columbia Avenue.
Wards Home
Walking in the back entrance Governor Haight, Commissioner Jeff O’Hara, Pete Burke and Stephen Benson catch sight first of knocked down tables and barrels, blood splattered in various places from the mess that occurred from the fight that led to the murder and the bodies that were strewn outside. Proceeding onto the back room they find it empty, “No sign of anyone,” Burke notes.
“We better check on the survivors,” Governor Haight says.
“Downstairs?” Commissioner O’Hara asks.
“That would be my bet,” Governor Haight answers, “If this is anything like the Missionary across the street I am sure they have men waiting downstairs to be shipped out.”
“I quite agree,” Benton says.
“Let’s go then,” Commissioner O’Hara insists and with that they proceed onto the downstairs from a stairwell that is adjacent to the back room and upon leading the way Commissioner O’Hara has his gun drawn as does Officer Burke.
Reaching a locked door, “We better find the key,” Commissioner O’Hara says.
“I think I saw a set,” Benton announces, “Inside the room we were just in. I’ll go and get it,” and quickly heads back up the stairs.
While waiting for him to return they start hearing voices from the other side of the door and immediately addressing them, “We hear you,” comes from Governor Haight, “We’ll be right with you, just hold on.”
Coming back down the stairs Benton brings a set of keys and as he tries the keys the first one doesn’t work nor does the second one, the third one he fits into the door unlocks it and as they open it they are in awe as they see 30 men huddled together and one dirty mattress in the middle of the floor similar to what they saw at the Missionary.
“Are you all alright?” Governor Haight inquires.
“Who are you?” One of the men asks.
“I’m Governor Haight,” the governor mentions, “This here is Commissioner O’Hara; he is in charge of the police station. We’re here to rescue you.”
“Rescue us?” one of the men surprised asks.
“Yes,” Commissioner O’Hara answers.
“You’re really the governor?” One of the men brings up.
“I am,” Governor Haight states.
“How many of you are here?” Benton asks.
“There’s 34 of us,” one of the men answers.
“What happened?” one of the men asks, “We heard fighting and shooting.”
“We’re not 100 percent sure ourselves,” Governor Haight admits, “We’ve just started making out what occurred. We have a long way to go before we know what exactly took place here.”
Glancing about and noticing a man lying unconscious, “Commissioner,” Burke calls out, “Look here,” and upon going over to him the commissioner checks him over briefly.
“How is he?” Governor Haight asks.
“He’s alive,” Commissioner O’Hara answers, “But as to what happened to him I can’t make out. Do any of you know?”
“He was deposited here by some of the men upstairs,” One man notes, “And then they left.”
“He’s one of them,” another mentions.
“One of them?” Commissioner O’Hara asks.
“He is,” the man says, “How I got here.”
“I don’t follow you,” Commissioner O’Hara replies.
“Boy you sure are naïve aren’t you Commissioner,” Benton says, “He is probably one of the runners or crimps that found this man, maybe some of these others and brought them here to be shipped out. Am I right?” he asks as he looks over at the gathered men.
“You are correct,” comes from the second man, “But as to why they dropped him down here, beats me. He’s been out since they put him down here with us.”
Just then the man begins groaning, “I think he’s beginning to come around,” Burke notes.
As he begins stirring about and is about to sit up the commissioner assists him “Are you alright?” asks.
“Not sure,” the man answers, “What happened?”
“That’s what we like to know,” Commissioner O’Hara says.
“Where am I?” the man asks.
“You don’t know where you are?” Commissioner O’Hara inquires.
Glancing about at the room he is in, “I know where I am, but” the man says, “Don’t really know how I got here. I was attacked.”
“So we’ve been informed,” Governor Haight notes, “Tell us who attacked you.”
“One of Mr. White’s men” the man replies.
“Mr. White?” Commissioner O’Hara mimics.
“The owner of this place,” the man says.
Checking him over quickly, “You have a bad bump on the back of your head,” Commissioner O’Hara notes.
“That is courtesy,” the man mentions, “Of one of Mr. White’s men.”
“What’s your name?” Governor Haight asks.
“Ben,” the man answers, “Ben Foster.”
“Could you tell us what happened?” Governor Haight asks.
“Who are you?” Ben wanted to know.
“I am Governor Haight” introducing himself “And this here” pointing to O’Hara “Is Commissioner O’Hara of the police station” Governor Haight mentions.
With his eyes wide opened, “Really?” Ben asks.
“Really,” Governor Haight reiterates, “Now, could you tell us what happened?”
“Mr. White stiffed us,” the man mentions, “We came here to get money that was owed to us.”
“We?” Commissioner O’Hara says.
“Yes,” the man replies, “Victor, Craig and I came for our money. Mr. White shot and killed Victor.”
“This man here,” Benton says, “Said you brought him here. Are you a runner?”
Swallowing hard “Was,” Ben admits “I was giving it up. That is probably why Mr. White didn’t want to pay me or the others. He didn’t like the idea of us quitting.”
“Listen” Governor Haight says “We do need to learn more about what occurred here, how each of you men got here and I’m sure you have questions for us as well.”
“You could say that again,” one of the men retort.
“So how about if we get out of here,” Governor Haight insists, “Get you” glancing over at Ben, “To see a doctor and make sure you are alright. From there we could get you fellas a nice hot breakfast, maybe a nice hot bath and some fresh cleaned clothing and then we could talk more about what went on and so forth.”
“And while we’re at it” Burke says “We could check to see how the girl is making out.”
“Yes,” Commissioner O’Hara replies.
“Precisely,” Governor Haight replies.
“That sounds like a good idea,” Benton says.
“I’m all for that,” comes from the second man.
“Come on,” Governor Haight says and with that all the men including Ben Foster pile out of the cellar’s prison room.
Going outside, “They’re not all going to fit in the wagon here,” Burke mentions.
“No,” Commissioner O’Hara replies “How about if you take them down to the coroner’s office while I go get another wagon from the livery nearby?”
“Sure thing,” Burke says.
“Be right back,” Commissioner O’Hara informs the governor and the men standing about.
While Burke leaves with the loaded wagon Commissioner O’Hara proceeds on down the road to the livery and quickly borrows an empty wagon and a pair of fresh horses. Once they’ve been hitched up he brings it back to the alleyway and after all the men pile into the back he follows behind the governor and Benton who lead the way out and enroute to the doctor’s office.
China Town
Upon following the men’s directions Jim finally finds the Chinese Fortune Cookie and quickly learns that it’s the entrance to a gold mine. Dismounting he follows his instructions and looks about for the note that was supposedly left there with a new set of instructions.
Glancing about he looks around for Johnny and the kidnapper, wondering where they both are.
Just then hearing a slight whistling sound, Jim once again glances about and after learning the source of the whistle spots Johnny hidden behind a boulder.
Nodding his head to him Jim carefully looks about trying to decipher where the note would be. And then upon catching sight of something sticking out from underneath a board next to the entrance and proceeds forward; quickly scooping it up.
Still looking about for the kidnapper but doesn’t see any sign of him slowly moves up the hill towards the boulder. Keeping a slight distance away so that he doesn’t give away Johnny’s location and yet being able to hear what the note has to say, he starts reading it out loud, “You’ve got 10 minutes to get to the next one. Go west onto Chestnut, then onto Taylor Street, from there look for Star of the Union go behind the building, there you will see your next set of instructions.”
Quickly mounting back up on his horse Jim following his instructions looks about and then begins moving. Johnny grabbing his horse does the same and while he keeps parallel with Jim he keeps his distance to keep his full attention on him while at the same time not wanting anyone catching him following him. Jim goes up Grant Avenue and looks for Chestnut. Upon finding it takes the left.
Back at the Doctor’s
After arriving at the doctor’s office, the governor and Benton drop the commissioner and Ben Foster outside the doorway and then upon leaving with the men they just rescued from the Ward’s Home the governor advises O’Hara to come to his home after they’ve finished there in which he agrees to.
Walking in with Ben Foster, “Hello,” Commissioner O’Hara calls out.
“Yes,” The Nurse replies.
“Is the doctor in?” Commissioner O’Hara asks.
“He’s in with a patient right now,” she mentions.
“Is he with a young woman,” Commissioner O’Hara wanted to know, “And if so, is my son Alan in there with them?”
“Yes,” the nurse responds, “To both questions.”
“How is she doing?” the commissioner wanted to know.
“The doctor will inform you,” she mentions, “When he comes out.”
“Could you let him know,” the commissioner brings up, “That he has another patient out here that needs looking at?”
“I will” she vows “Won’t you please take a seat?” as she quickly heads back into the room she just came out of while both the commissioner and Ben Foster take a seat.
Seconds later emerging from the back office, “Father,” Alan calls out to which the commissioner says “Alan how is she?”
Taking a seat alongside of the commissioner “The doctor said she’d be alright,” Alan answers.
Reaching Green Street
Bill and Heath coming up on Green Street are baffled by where they need to go next and as they look about they catch sight of various Chinese residents going about their normal morning day to day lifestyles including porters swinging heavy burdens of lilies and other plants from side to side as they trot along to their various destinations, some guiding wagons that are being pulled by burrows.
“This,” Heath brings up, “Is what is called a Chinese district.”
Noticing the Chinese men and women as well as the various writings and symbols on each of the many different types of businesses they are passing along the way on both sides of the street, “I could see that,” Bill notes.
Part 418
Back at the Doctor’s
As Burke walks in, “Any word?”
“Not really,” Commissioner O’Hara replies.
“The doctor said he’d let us know more,” Alan says, “When he knew more.”
China Town
As they continue on down Green Bill suggests they start asking for directions to which Heath being a little leery answers “We better not” picturing themselves being in the Chinese district.
“Why Heath?” Bill inquires “What’s so bad or so dangerous about being out this way Heath?”
“I don’t want to say,” Heath replies, “But there are stories I’ve heard long ago when I did come here and was always told to stay clear of here.”
“And yet,” Bill brings up, “We’re in here looking for Johnny and Jim.”
“Yes,” Heath answers, “To tell them they don’t have to worry about the ransom anymore and to get out of here themselves.”
As they continue down Green they catch sight of what appears to be a small park and a few young women with their small children either engaged in playing or talking amongst themselves but no sign of the Chinese Fortune Cookie and continues on up the road.
“Heath,” Bill brings up, “These people don’t look like they will do us any harm.”
“No,” Heath replies, “But its best we keep it that way.”
“Heath,” Bill asks, “What’s wrong with asking directions?”
“I don’t know,” Heath answers, “I just got this feeling and I remember hearing that we have to be extremely careful venturing in here.”
“Well,” Bill says, “How else are we going to find this place without knowing where it is or where to go without asking someone?”
“Let’s just keep going down this street,” Heath mentions.
Traveling past by a saloon which happens to be called The Bull’s Run they notice more local people going about their business, they also notice a couple young women roughly in their early 20’s talking to a couple of the young men they are with but don’t notice the two other men who talk amongst themselves in their own language with the first one saying, “Hey Lee, look there.”
Lee answers, “I see it,” still in their own language.
“Where do you suppose they’re going?” the first man says.
“Not sure,” Lee replies, “They must be going in the same direction as those two other fellas went.”
“That would be my guess,” the first man notes.
Watching as they continue down Green, “Maybe they’ve heard about it and just had to see for themselves,” Lee states.
“They’ll find out,” the first man says, “Like all the others who’ve come before them that there is nothing there now.”
“True,” Lee responds as they watch them disappear.
Heath and Bill meanwhile pass by more local townspeople and catch sight of women doing their daily chores in front of their homes.
They also see more people going about their normal morning business some just opening and beginning their day. They catch sight of one woman sweeping in front of her building removing unwanted sand from the entranceway. They catch a man on the other side of the building wearing a black beanie on his head and small beard on his chin talking with another man as they are passing by.
“Do you think they are talking about us?” Bill wanted to know.
“Not sure,” Heath replies.
“I take it,” Bill says, “You don’t know Chinese.”
“No,” Heath answers, “Do you?”
“Of course not,” Bill says, “And before coming in here, I didn’t even know we were finding ourselves in the heart of the Chinese district.”
“I didn’t know about it,” Heath notes, “Until we came in here and saw them then it brought me back to when I did come here and remembered what I heard.”
“Which you won’t,” Bill brings up, “Let me in on.”
Shaking his head, “Sorry,” Heath says, “However once we get out of here I will tell you some of what I heard, how’s that?”
“What happens,” Bill mentions, “IF whatever it is you heard happens before we find Johnny and Jim and before we are to get out of here?”
“Let’s have faith Bill,” Heath notes, “And trust my instincts. If we do, we should be alright.”
“I’d feel better,” Bill brings up, “If you let me in on what you know or heard.”
Pondering his thoughts, “I could tell you some,” Heath says, “I don’t know how good it may be.”
“Go ahead,” Bill replies, “I rather know a little than none.”
“I heard,” Heath says, “We must never venture into this area, I heard it could be very bad, something about a Tongue, don’t know what that is but if they should spot you-you better look out.”
“Why?” Bill asks.
“Not sure,” Heath answers, “Exactly… but that is what I was told.”
As Bill studies the various people they go by states, “They don’t seem like they are bad. In fact, they seem like they are minding their own business.”
“They do,” Heath says, “But I am just going by what I remember hearing. Let’s keep going.”
Exhaling heavily, “Very well,” Bill reluctantly says as he continues going with Heath up and down the street.
Proceeding up the road they still don’t see any sign of Jim or Johnny but continue to eye any of the local citizens that they see either talking or going about their business.
Going past them they begin noticing the vestige of the road leads them through a very densely wooded stretch with trees pressed in on both sides. Turning onto what is mentioned on a sign called Lombard Street they follow it for about another 20 yard or so when after they plow through a wall of weeds they immediately bring their horses to a complete halt, “Well, I’ll be,” Heath mumbles with Bill calling out, “Hey look,” as something catches their attention.
Responding “I see it,” Heath notices that it brings them to the mine and after dismounting they go around to the front and upon catching sight of a sign over the entrance to it they both read out loud, “Chinese Fortune Cookie.”
“It never occurred to me,” Heath mentions, “We were looking for a mine.”
“Me either” Bill notes, “But this is the place” looking about.
As he looks at the ground nearest the entrance, “This is also a gold mine,” Heath notes.
“How could you tell?” Bill asks.
“I’ve worked in one,” Heath states, “And,” picking up some minuscule fragments from the ground, “This here is talarium, gold’s natural raw substance before it is turned into the gold that they use to sell.”
“I forgot,” Bill says, “That you did something like this before.”
“It’s no longer in use,” Heath states.
“I could see that,” Bill glancing about says, “And there is no sign of Jim or Johnny either for that matter.”
“True,” Heath mentions, “But that doesn’t mean they weren’t here,” glancing down at the prints in the dirt, “Look!”
“Do you want to go inside and look about?” Bill wanted to know.
“No,” Heath replies, “If they were still here we would be seeing the horses; I think that they were here and went off in that direction,” pointing.
“Come on then,” Bill insists and quickly mounting back up they go to follow them.
Back at the Doctor’s
While still waiting to hear word from the doctor, “Think she’ll be alright,” Burke wanted to know.
“I think that must be the fourth time you’ve asked that question” Alan notes.
“While we’re waiting,” Commissioner O’Hara says, “How about if we take stock? We have some important issues to bring up. Men were killed today, these runners or crimps; the girl, who is she and where is she from?”
“I’m sure she will tell us,” Alan mentions, “Once she’s wakened up.”
“I hope so,” Commissioner O’Hara admits.
“Why wouldn’t she?” Alan says.
“Not sure,” Commissioner O’Hara replies, “And right now she may be able to help us with what she heard that took place in that alleyway.”
“What about the Barkleys?” Burke notes.
“I plan on talking with them too” Commissioner O’Hara mentions “And Benton is right if we did our job from the beginning maybe a lot of this could’ve been avoided.”
“I quite agree,” Ben Foster says, “But I must tell you if you plan on shutting a lot of this down you need to tread it very carefully.”
“That much we do know,” Commissioner O’Hara replies, “I think the hardest part will be the beginning; once we’ve started we could work on the rest. It may take time but once we’ve got it moving then this could come to an end.”
“Do the Barkleys,” Alan wanted to know, “Have a plan?”
“Not sure yet,” Commissioner O’Hara answers, “All I know is we plan on meeting with them at 5 pm from there, we could discuss what went on, what they’ve witnessed and then work on a plan of action.”
Kearney and Clay Street
Reaching an intersection that brings them to a row of woods beyond, “Is this it?” Nick wanted to know as he glances about.
“Almost,” Jarrod then says, “Before we go venturing into there, remember what I’ve told you. We have to keep our heads as we proceed on in. Don’t do anything rash. All we’re here for is to find Heath, Bill and the men and then let’s get out of there as quickly as we possibly can.”
“You don’t have to tell me that again,” Nick answers.
As they continue going up the road “We do have one advantage” Jarrod brings up “However.”
“Oh,” Nick asks, “What’s that?” as he watches both sides of the street very carefully.
“It’s still early,” Jarrod notes, “Many of the people here are either home yet asleep or just getting up. The heavier traffic comes out later on in the day.”
“I wish,” Nick brings up, “You would’ve told me about this place long before now, long before we had Heath and Bill coming down here.”
“If I did,” Jarrod points out, “Would you have allowed them to go?”
“Of course not,” Nick says.
“That’s why I didn’t mention it,” Jarrod points out, “Too much was at stake. You wouldn’t have been that cooperative and seeing the kidnappers wanted the ransom to be made here we didn’t have much of a choice.”
“No” Nick says “But now we have to be certain Heath and Bill come out of there in one piece, not to mention Johnny and Jim who are doing the hardest part of delivering what was supposedly the ransom that they don’t even have to do now.”
“If they don’t do anything rash,” Jarrod brings up, “They should be okay. They are all sensible.”
“They may be sensible,” Nick mentions, “But you could have at least informed them of what they may be headed for instead of just allowing them to go in there blindly” shaking his head in disgust Nick just goes with Jarrod as they head down the road leading to the entrance of China Town.
As they proceed on in Jarrod cocks his head to one side listening.
Observing him “What you doing?” Nick asks.
“Listening,” Jarrod answers.
“To what?” Nick wanted to know as he begins looking about; scanning the bushes they are passing by.
“Not sure,” Jarrod says, “Just anything.”
Continuing to listen they hear something coming on them from their rear, abruptly bursting from cover in a tall clump of bushes.
11/28/11
Pulling out his gun Nick finds it is unnecessary when he sees what comes out of the bushes is a white bunny rabbit that hops away.
“You sure get jumpy Nick,” Jarrod tells him.
“I have good reason to,” Nick answers as they continue on.
“Perhaps,” Jarrod says.
“No perhaps about it,” Nick replies, “Pappy, I may have my faults and flaws but one of these days one of your wild ideas is going to cost someone their life and all for what? Doing what you call a good deed?”
“Nick I think you’re starting to get paranoid,” Jarrod says, “Or overly tired.”
“Tired is more like it” Nick retorts “I am starting to make up words that don’t make sense to what I am thinking. Let’s just hurry up and find them and go home.”
“Agreed,” Jarrod responds.
Following his instructions and as he reaches the back alleyway of the Star of the Union Saloon and restaurant Jim dismounts and upon grabbing the duffle bag begins moving on foot.
Glancing about he looks for the note as well as Johnny.
As he is running to reach the building he starts to get out of breath. Stopping to take a few short breaths he hears a whistling sound coming from the edge of the building and upon looking about catches sight of Johnny hidden within some bushes that is behind a clustered row of barrels.
Looking about the entrance Jim manages to find the note that has been left between two potted plants sticking out and upon reading it out loud says, “Not bad clown. Now that you’ve found the note means you found your way to here. Very good! Now start traveling again. Continue on Taylor, go three blocks to your south. Look for a street called Bush. There you will see a Chinese Theatre at the corner of Bush and Leavenworth. As you did here go in the back and look for the note. From there, you will get the next set of instructions. You better hurry! You have just 10 minutes to get to it.”
Taking another few breaths, Jim begins his run again with Johnny giving him a few seconds to get ahead of him but being able to keep his full focus onto him.
As Jim proceeds onward he gazes at the road ahead he is coming up to, scarcely noticing the scenery he passes nor does he hear the sound of crackling of branches and logs as he makes his way to Bush and Leavenworth.
As Heath and Bill continue to ride around they find themselves moving through another stretch of a wooded area. Trying to find Johnny and Jim, “This isn’t getting us anywhere Heath,” Bill announces.
“What do you want to do?” Heath asks.
“I don’t know,” Bill answers, “We have to find Jim and Johnny but we can’t find them because we don’t really know which way they were going or went in and yet we have to be careful traveling up and down these streets not looking too conspicuous and yet anybody who sees us could tell we are not from this section of town. We don’t even look Chinese.”
“I know,” Heath says, “But we can’t ask anybody if they seen them.”
“Why not?” Bill asks, “You keep saying that and yet they stand out just as clearly as we do.”
“I know” Heath answers “But I still think it’s too dangerous to be asking anybody here for anything. We don’t want to find ourselves falling into the wrong hands.”
“Right now,” Bill says, “I don’t see any sign of anyone, not Chinese, not anyone.”
“Right now,” Heath mentions, “It’s best we don’t see any.”
12/27/11
Turning a corner at the end of the street they find themselves now on what a sign mentions Hyde Street.
“Which way?” Bill asks.
“Let’s keep going the way we’re going,” Heath insists.
And as they continue to ride around they find themselves going through another stretch of woods.
While riding along, Heath’s mind begins drifting slightly trying to recall what he heard back when he came there. Not remembering it exactly how it went he shakes his head and continues moving along with Bill beside him.
Just then hearing the sound of rustling from a tree draws his attention to the right. Twisting and studying it he notices that it’s an oak with wide sweeping branches. He also notices the rustling stopping.
Looking over his shoulder, he could tell they were out of sight and could tell the undergrowth was becoming dense and prolific. However his senses suddenly shrieked a warning, trying to alert him that something was amiss, but what?
Observing him, “Heath,” Bill asks, “What’s wrong?”
“Why?” Heath asks.
“I don’t know,” Bill says, “You look like something’s bothering you.”
Shaking his head, “Not sure,” Heath replies, “But I’ve got this strange eerily sensation,” as he grips the reins tightly they proceed past the undergrowth.
“You want us to turn around?” Bill wanted to know.
“We can’t,” Heath tells him, “We still have to find Jim and Johnny. Come on,” as they continue moving past it Heath scans and studies the shadows, trying to figure out what exactly he senses.
tbc
Quickly responding Alan catches her and lowers her to the mattress, “She sure has a lot of spunk, doesn’t she?”
“We need to get her to a doctor,” Commissioner O’Hara notes.
“I’ll take her,” Burke volunteers.
Just then Benton walks in carrying a robe and a blanket.
“Good thinking,” the governor tells him.
Upon dressing her, “You know,” Alan says, “She kind of reminds me of someone.”
“Who?” Burke asks.
“Someone I was once very fond of,” Alan mentions, “Her name was Joan,” sadly he adds, “She was a beautiful woman” then upon staring at the unconscious form, “You know what, I will take her.”
Slapping him lightly on the shoulder “Go ahead Alan” Commissioner O’Hara then advises “But let’s be careful with her,” and gently they all lift her up and with Alan taking the lead carry her down the stairs and outside to one of the nearby horses and after Alan gets up behind the woman he quickly departs.
Burke then asks, “Who was the woman Alan was referring to?”
“Joan,” Commissioner O’Hara answers, “She was someone very close to Alan.”
“What happened to her?” Burke wanted to know.
“She was killed,” Commissioner O’Hara mentions, “Come on, we have more work to do,” and not saying another word, they as well as the governor and Benton head for the Wards’ Home.
11/12/11
China Town
Upon reaching the entrance of Columbia and Broadway which happens to be another street that has rows of woods on both sides and beyond Bill notices Heath suddenly becoming tense and asks, “Heath, you alright?”
As he glances about Heath nods his head replying, “I am.”
As he constantly looks from one side of the wooded stretch to the other, “What is it?” Bill asks “Something bothering you?”
Shaking head, “NO,” Heath replies, “I just get this funny feeling but I can’t explain why.”
“Have you ever been down this way before?” Bill inquires.
“Once,” Heath answers, “Come on,” and leading the way they go up Columbia Avenue.
Wards Home
Walking in the back entrance Governor Haight, Commissioner Jeff O’Hara, Pete Burke and Stephen Benson catch sight first of knocked down tables and barrels, blood splattered in various places from the mess that occurred from the fight that led to the murder and the bodies that were strewn outside. Proceeding onto the back room they find it empty, “No sign of anyone,” Burke notes.
“We better check on the survivors,” Governor Haight says.
“Downstairs?” Commissioner O’Hara asks.
“That would be my bet,” Governor Haight answers, “If this is anything like the Missionary across the street I am sure they have men waiting downstairs to be shipped out.”
“I quite agree,” Benton says.
“Let’s go then,” Commissioner O’Hara insists and with that they proceed onto the downstairs from a stairwell that is adjacent to the back room and upon leading the way Commissioner O’Hara has his gun drawn as does Officer Burke.
Reaching a locked door, “We better find the key,” Commissioner O’Hara says.
“I think I saw a set,” Benton announces, “Inside the room we were just in. I’ll go and get it,” and quickly heads back up the stairs.
While waiting for him to return they start hearing voices from the other side of the door and immediately addressing them, “We hear you,” comes from Governor Haight, “We’ll be right with you, just hold on.”
Coming back down the stairs Benton brings a set of keys and as he tries the keys the first one doesn’t work nor does the second one, the third one he fits into the door unlocks it and as they open it they are in awe as they see 30 men huddled together and one dirty mattress in the middle of the floor similar to what they saw at the Missionary.
“Are you all alright?” Governor Haight inquires.
“Who are you?” One of the men asks.
“I’m Governor Haight,” the governor mentions, “This here is Commissioner O’Hara; he is in charge of the police station. We’re here to rescue you.”
“Rescue us?” one of the men surprised asks.
“Yes,” Commissioner O’Hara answers.
“You’re really the governor?” One of the men brings up.
“I am,” Governor Haight states.
“How many of you are here?” Benton asks.
“There’s 34 of us,” one of the men answers.
“What happened?” one of the men asks, “We heard fighting and shooting.”
“We’re not 100 percent sure ourselves,” Governor Haight admits, “We’ve just started making out what occurred. We have a long way to go before we know what exactly took place here.”
Glancing about and noticing a man lying unconscious, “Commissioner,” Burke calls out, “Look here,” and upon going over to him the commissioner checks him over briefly.
“How is he?” Governor Haight asks.
“He’s alive,” Commissioner O’Hara answers, “But as to what happened to him I can’t make out. Do any of you know?”
“He was deposited here by some of the men upstairs,” One man notes, “And then they left.”
“He’s one of them,” another mentions.
“One of them?” Commissioner O’Hara asks.
“He is,” the man says, “How I got here.”
“I don’t follow you,” Commissioner O’Hara replies.
“Boy you sure are naïve aren’t you Commissioner,” Benton says, “He is probably one of the runners or crimps that found this man, maybe some of these others and brought them here to be shipped out. Am I right?” he asks as he looks over at the gathered men.
“You are correct,” comes from the second man, “But as to why they dropped him down here, beats me. He’s been out since they put him down here with us.”
Just then the man begins groaning, “I think he’s beginning to come around,” Burke notes.
As he begins stirring about and is about to sit up the commissioner assists him “Are you alright?” asks.
“Not sure,” the man answers, “What happened?”
“That’s what we like to know,” Commissioner O’Hara says.
“Where am I?” the man asks.
“You don’t know where you are?” Commissioner O’Hara inquires.
Glancing about at the room he is in, “I know where I am, but” the man says, “Don’t really know how I got here. I was attacked.”
“So we’ve been informed,” Governor Haight notes, “Tell us who attacked you.”
“One of Mr. White’s men” the man replies.
“Mr. White?” Commissioner O’Hara mimics.
“The owner of this place,” the man says.
Checking him over quickly, “You have a bad bump on the back of your head,” Commissioner O’Hara notes.
“That is courtesy,” the man mentions, “Of one of Mr. White’s men.”
“What’s your name?” Governor Haight asks.
“Ben,” the man answers, “Ben Foster.”
“Could you tell us what happened?” Governor Haight asks.
“Who are you?” Ben wanted to know.
“I am Governor Haight” introducing himself “And this here” pointing to O’Hara “Is Commissioner O’Hara of the police station” Governor Haight mentions.
With his eyes wide opened, “Really?” Ben asks.
“Really,” Governor Haight reiterates, “Now, could you tell us what happened?”
“Mr. White stiffed us,” the man mentions, “We came here to get money that was owed to us.”
“We?” Commissioner O’Hara says.
“Yes,” the man replies, “Victor, Craig and I came for our money. Mr. White shot and killed Victor.”
“This man here,” Benton says, “Said you brought him here. Are you a runner?”
Swallowing hard “Was,” Ben admits “I was giving it up. That is probably why Mr. White didn’t want to pay me or the others. He didn’t like the idea of us quitting.”
“Listen” Governor Haight says “We do need to learn more about what occurred here, how each of you men got here and I’m sure you have questions for us as well.”
“You could say that again,” one of the men retort.
“So how about if we get out of here,” Governor Haight insists, “Get you” glancing over at Ben, “To see a doctor and make sure you are alright. From there we could get you fellas a nice hot breakfast, maybe a nice hot bath and some fresh cleaned clothing and then we could talk more about what went on and so forth.”
“And while we’re at it” Burke says “We could check to see how the girl is making out.”
“Yes,” Commissioner O’Hara replies.
“Precisely,” Governor Haight replies.
“That sounds like a good idea,” Benton says.
“I’m all for that,” comes from the second man.
“Come on,” Governor Haight says and with that all the men including Ben Foster pile out of the cellar’s prison room.
Going outside, “They’re not all going to fit in the wagon here,” Burke mentions.
“No,” Commissioner O’Hara replies “How about if you take them down to the coroner’s office while I go get another wagon from the livery nearby?”
“Sure thing,” Burke says.
“Be right back,” Commissioner O’Hara informs the governor and the men standing about.
While Burke leaves with the loaded wagon Commissioner O’Hara proceeds on down the road to the livery and quickly borrows an empty wagon and a pair of fresh horses. Once they’ve been hitched up he brings it back to the alleyway and after all the men pile into the back he follows behind the governor and Benton who lead the way out and enroute to the doctor’s office.
China Town
Upon following the men’s directions Jim finally finds the Chinese Fortune Cookie and quickly learns that it’s the entrance to a gold mine. Dismounting he follows his instructions and looks about for the note that was supposedly left there with a new set of instructions.
Glancing about he looks around for Johnny and the kidnapper, wondering where they both are.
Just then hearing a slight whistling sound, Jim once again glances about and after learning the source of the whistle spots Johnny hidden behind a boulder.
Nodding his head to him Jim carefully looks about trying to decipher where the note would be. And then upon catching sight of something sticking out from underneath a board next to the entrance and proceeds forward; quickly scooping it up.
Still looking about for the kidnapper but doesn’t see any sign of him slowly moves up the hill towards the boulder. Keeping a slight distance away so that he doesn’t give away Johnny’s location and yet being able to hear what the note has to say, he starts reading it out loud, “You’ve got 10 minutes to get to the next one. Go west onto Chestnut, then onto Taylor Street, from there look for Star of the Union go behind the building, there you will see your next set of instructions.”
Quickly mounting back up on his horse Jim following his instructions looks about and then begins moving. Johnny grabbing his horse does the same and while he keeps parallel with Jim he keeps his distance to keep his full attention on him while at the same time not wanting anyone catching him following him. Jim goes up Grant Avenue and looks for Chestnut. Upon finding it takes the left.
Back at the Doctor’s
After arriving at the doctor’s office, the governor and Benton drop the commissioner and Ben Foster outside the doorway and then upon leaving with the men they just rescued from the Ward’s Home the governor advises O’Hara to come to his home after they’ve finished there in which he agrees to.
Walking in with Ben Foster, “Hello,” Commissioner O’Hara calls out.
“Yes,” The Nurse replies.
“Is the doctor in?” Commissioner O’Hara asks.
“He’s in with a patient right now,” she mentions.
“Is he with a young woman,” Commissioner O’Hara wanted to know, “And if so, is my son Alan in there with them?”
“Yes,” the nurse responds, “To both questions.”
“How is she doing?” the commissioner wanted to know.
“The doctor will inform you,” she mentions, “When he comes out.”
“Could you let him know,” the commissioner brings up, “That he has another patient out here that needs looking at?”
“I will” she vows “Won’t you please take a seat?” as she quickly heads back into the room she just came out of while both the commissioner and Ben Foster take a seat.
Seconds later emerging from the back office, “Father,” Alan calls out to which the commissioner says “Alan how is she?”
Taking a seat alongside of the commissioner “The doctor said she’d be alright,” Alan answers.
Reaching Green Street
Bill and Heath coming up on Green Street are baffled by where they need to go next and as they look about they catch sight of various Chinese residents going about their normal morning day to day lifestyles including porters swinging heavy burdens of lilies and other plants from side to side as they trot along to their various destinations, some guiding wagons that are being pulled by burrows.
“This,” Heath brings up, “Is what is called a Chinese district.”
Noticing the Chinese men and women as well as the various writings and symbols on each of the many different types of businesses they are passing along the way on both sides of the street, “I could see that,” Bill notes.
Part 418
Back at the Doctor’s
As Burke walks in, “Any word?”
“Not really,” Commissioner O’Hara replies.
“The doctor said he’d let us know more,” Alan says, “When he knew more.”
China Town
As they continue on down Green Bill suggests they start asking for directions to which Heath being a little leery answers “We better not” picturing themselves being in the Chinese district.
“Why Heath?” Bill inquires “What’s so bad or so dangerous about being out this way Heath?”
“I don’t want to say,” Heath replies, “But there are stories I’ve heard long ago when I did come here and was always told to stay clear of here.”
“And yet,” Bill brings up, “We’re in here looking for Johnny and Jim.”
“Yes,” Heath answers, “To tell them they don’t have to worry about the ransom anymore and to get out of here themselves.”
As they continue down Green they catch sight of what appears to be a small park and a few young women with their small children either engaged in playing or talking amongst themselves but no sign of the Chinese Fortune Cookie and continues on up the road.
“Heath,” Bill brings up, “These people don’t look like they will do us any harm.”
“No,” Heath replies, “But its best we keep it that way.”
“Heath,” Bill asks, “What’s wrong with asking directions?”
“I don’t know,” Heath answers, “I just got this feeling and I remember hearing that we have to be extremely careful venturing in here.”
“Well,” Bill says, “How else are we going to find this place without knowing where it is or where to go without asking someone?”
“Let’s just keep going down this street,” Heath mentions.
Traveling past by a saloon which happens to be called The Bull’s Run they notice more local people going about their business, they also notice a couple young women roughly in their early 20’s talking to a couple of the young men they are with but don’t notice the two other men who talk amongst themselves in their own language with the first one saying, “Hey Lee, look there.”
Lee answers, “I see it,” still in their own language.
“Where do you suppose they’re going?” the first man says.
“Not sure,” Lee replies, “They must be going in the same direction as those two other fellas went.”
“That would be my guess,” the first man notes.
Watching as they continue down Green, “Maybe they’ve heard about it and just had to see for themselves,” Lee states.
“They’ll find out,” the first man says, “Like all the others who’ve come before them that there is nothing there now.”
“True,” Lee responds as they watch them disappear.
Heath and Bill meanwhile pass by more local townspeople and catch sight of women doing their daily chores in front of their homes.
They also see more people going about their normal morning business some just opening and beginning their day. They catch sight of one woman sweeping in front of her building removing unwanted sand from the entranceway. They catch a man on the other side of the building wearing a black beanie on his head and small beard on his chin talking with another man as they are passing by.
“Do you think they are talking about us?” Bill wanted to know.
“Not sure,” Heath replies.
“I take it,” Bill says, “You don’t know Chinese.”
“No,” Heath answers, “Do you?”
“Of course not,” Bill says, “And before coming in here, I didn’t even know we were finding ourselves in the heart of the Chinese district.”
“I didn’t know about it,” Heath notes, “Until we came in here and saw them then it brought me back to when I did come here and remembered what I heard.”
“Which you won’t,” Bill brings up, “Let me in on.”
Shaking his head, “Sorry,” Heath says, “However once we get out of here I will tell you some of what I heard, how’s that?”
“What happens,” Bill mentions, “IF whatever it is you heard happens before we find Johnny and Jim and before we are to get out of here?”
“Let’s have faith Bill,” Heath notes, “And trust my instincts. If we do, we should be alright.”
“I’d feel better,” Bill brings up, “If you let me in on what you know or heard.”
Pondering his thoughts, “I could tell you some,” Heath says, “I don’t know how good it may be.”
“Go ahead,” Bill replies, “I rather know a little than none.”
“I heard,” Heath says, “We must never venture into this area, I heard it could be very bad, something about a Tongue, don’t know what that is but if they should spot you-you better look out.”
“Why?” Bill asks.
“Not sure,” Heath answers, “Exactly… but that is what I was told.”
As Bill studies the various people they go by states, “They don’t seem like they are bad. In fact, they seem like they are minding their own business.”
“They do,” Heath says, “But I am just going by what I remember hearing. Let’s keep going.”
Exhaling heavily, “Very well,” Bill reluctantly says as he continues going with Heath up and down the street.
Proceeding up the road they still don’t see any sign of Jim or Johnny but continue to eye any of the local citizens that they see either talking or going about their business.
Going past them they begin noticing the vestige of the road leads them through a very densely wooded stretch with trees pressed in on both sides. Turning onto what is mentioned on a sign called Lombard Street they follow it for about another 20 yard or so when after they plow through a wall of weeds they immediately bring their horses to a complete halt, “Well, I’ll be,” Heath mumbles with Bill calling out, “Hey look,” as something catches their attention.
Responding “I see it,” Heath notices that it brings them to the mine and after dismounting they go around to the front and upon catching sight of a sign over the entrance to it they both read out loud, “Chinese Fortune Cookie.”
“It never occurred to me,” Heath mentions, “We were looking for a mine.”
“Me either” Bill notes, “But this is the place” looking about.
As he looks at the ground nearest the entrance, “This is also a gold mine,” Heath notes.
“How could you tell?” Bill asks.
“I’ve worked in one,” Heath states, “And,” picking up some minuscule fragments from the ground, “This here is talarium, gold’s natural raw substance before it is turned into the gold that they use to sell.”
“I forgot,” Bill says, “That you did something like this before.”
“It’s no longer in use,” Heath states.
“I could see that,” Bill glancing about says, “And there is no sign of Jim or Johnny either for that matter.”
“True,” Heath mentions, “But that doesn’t mean they weren’t here,” glancing down at the prints in the dirt, “Look!”
“Do you want to go inside and look about?” Bill wanted to know.
“No,” Heath replies, “If they were still here we would be seeing the horses; I think that they were here and went off in that direction,” pointing.
“Come on then,” Bill insists and quickly mounting back up they go to follow them.
Back at the Doctor’s
While still waiting to hear word from the doctor, “Think she’ll be alright,” Burke wanted to know.
“I think that must be the fourth time you’ve asked that question” Alan notes.
“While we’re waiting,” Commissioner O’Hara says, “How about if we take stock? We have some important issues to bring up. Men were killed today, these runners or crimps; the girl, who is she and where is she from?”
“I’m sure she will tell us,” Alan mentions, “Once she’s wakened up.”
“I hope so,” Commissioner O’Hara admits.
“Why wouldn’t she?” Alan says.
“Not sure,” Commissioner O’Hara replies, “And right now she may be able to help us with what she heard that took place in that alleyway.”
“What about the Barkleys?” Burke notes.
“I plan on talking with them too” Commissioner O’Hara mentions “And Benton is right if we did our job from the beginning maybe a lot of this could’ve been avoided.”
“I quite agree,” Ben Foster says, “But I must tell you if you plan on shutting a lot of this down you need to tread it very carefully.”
“That much we do know,” Commissioner O’Hara replies, “I think the hardest part will be the beginning; once we’ve started we could work on the rest. It may take time but once we’ve got it moving then this could come to an end.”
“Do the Barkleys,” Alan wanted to know, “Have a plan?”
“Not sure yet,” Commissioner O’Hara answers, “All I know is we plan on meeting with them at 5 pm from there, we could discuss what went on, what they’ve witnessed and then work on a plan of action.”
Kearney and Clay Street
Reaching an intersection that brings them to a row of woods beyond, “Is this it?” Nick wanted to know as he glances about.
“Almost,” Jarrod then says, “Before we go venturing into there, remember what I’ve told you. We have to keep our heads as we proceed on in. Don’t do anything rash. All we’re here for is to find Heath, Bill and the men and then let’s get out of there as quickly as we possibly can.”
“You don’t have to tell me that again,” Nick answers.
As they continue going up the road “We do have one advantage” Jarrod brings up “However.”
“Oh,” Nick asks, “What’s that?” as he watches both sides of the street very carefully.
“It’s still early,” Jarrod notes, “Many of the people here are either home yet asleep or just getting up. The heavier traffic comes out later on in the day.”
“I wish,” Nick brings up, “You would’ve told me about this place long before now, long before we had Heath and Bill coming down here.”
“If I did,” Jarrod points out, “Would you have allowed them to go?”
“Of course not,” Nick says.
“That’s why I didn’t mention it,” Jarrod points out, “Too much was at stake. You wouldn’t have been that cooperative and seeing the kidnappers wanted the ransom to be made here we didn’t have much of a choice.”
“No” Nick says “But now we have to be certain Heath and Bill come out of there in one piece, not to mention Johnny and Jim who are doing the hardest part of delivering what was supposedly the ransom that they don’t even have to do now.”
“If they don’t do anything rash,” Jarrod brings up, “They should be okay. They are all sensible.”
“They may be sensible,” Nick mentions, “But you could have at least informed them of what they may be headed for instead of just allowing them to go in there blindly” shaking his head in disgust Nick just goes with Jarrod as they head down the road leading to the entrance of China Town.
As they proceed on in Jarrod cocks his head to one side listening.
Observing him “What you doing?” Nick asks.
“Listening,” Jarrod answers.
“To what?” Nick wanted to know as he begins looking about; scanning the bushes they are passing by.
“Not sure,” Jarrod says, “Just anything.”
Continuing to listen they hear something coming on them from their rear, abruptly bursting from cover in a tall clump of bushes.
11/28/11
Pulling out his gun Nick finds it is unnecessary when he sees what comes out of the bushes is a white bunny rabbit that hops away.
“You sure get jumpy Nick,” Jarrod tells him.
“I have good reason to,” Nick answers as they continue on.
“Perhaps,” Jarrod says.
“No perhaps about it,” Nick replies, “Pappy, I may have my faults and flaws but one of these days one of your wild ideas is going to cost someone their life and all for what? Doing what you call a good deed?”
“Nick I think you’re starting to get paranoid,” Jarrod says, “Or overly tired.”
“Tired is more like it” Nick retorts “I am starting to make up words that don’t make sense to what I am thinking. Let’s just hurry up and find them and go home.”
“Agreed,” Jarrod responds.
Following his instructions and as he reaches the back alleyway of the Star of the Union Saloon and restaurant Jim dismounts and upon grabbing the duffle bag begins moving on foot.
Glancing about he looks for the note as well as Johnny.
As he is running to reach the building he starts to get out of breath. Stopping to take a few short breaths he hears a whistling sound coming from the edge of the building and upon looking about catches sight of Johnny hidden within some bushes that is behind a clustered row of barrels.
Looking about the entrance Jim manages to find the note that has been left between two potted plants sticking out and upon reading it out loud says, “Not bad clown. Now that you’ve found the note means you found your way to here. Very good! Now start traveling again. Continue on Taylor, go three blocks to your south. Look for a street called Bush. There you will see a Chinese Theatre at the corner of Bush and Leavenworth. As you did here go in the back and look for the note. From there, you will get the next set of instructions. You better hurry! You have just 10 minutes to get to it.”
Taking another few breaths, Jim begins his run again with Johnny giving him a few seconds to get ahead of him but being able to keep his full focus onto him.
As Jim proceeds onward he gazes at the road ahead he is coming up to, scarcely noticing the scenery he passes nor does he hear the sound of crackling of branches and logs as he makes his way to Bush and Leavenworth.
As Heath and Bill continue to ride around they find themselves moving through another stretch of a wooded area. Trying to find Johnny and Jim, “This isn’t getting us anywhere Heath,” Bill announces.
“What do you want to do?” Heath asks.
“I don’t know,” Bill answers, “We have to find Jim and Johnny but we can’t find them because we don’t really know which way they were going or went in and yet we have to be careful traveling up and down these streets not looking too conspicuous and yet anybody who sees us could tell we are not from this section of town. We don’t even look Chinese.”
“I know,” Heath says, “But we can’t ask anybody if they seen them.”
“Why not?” Bill asks, “You keep saying that and yet they stand out just as clearly as we do.”
“I know” Heath answers “But I still think it’s too dangerous to be asking anybody here for anything. We don’t want to find ourselves falling into the wrong hands.”
“Right now,” Bill says, “I don’t see any sign of anyone, not Chinese, not anyone.”
“Right now,” Heath mentions, “It’s best we don’t see any.”
12/27/11
Turning a corner at the end of the street they find themselves now on what a sign mentions Hyde Street.
“Which way?” Bill asks.
“Let’s keep going the way we’re going,” Heath insists.
And as they continue to ride around they find themselves going through another stretch of woods.
While riding along, Heath’s mind begins drifting slightly trying to recall what he heard back when he came there. Not remembering it exactly how it went he shakes his head and continues moving along with Bill beside him.
Just then hearing the sound of rustling from a tree draws his attention to the right. Twisting and studying it he notices that it’s an oak with wide sweeping branches. He also notices the rustling stopping.
Looking over his shoulder, he could tell they were out of sight and could tell the undergrowth was becoming dense and prolific. However his senses suddenly shrieked a warning, trying to alert him that something was amiss, but what?
Observing him, “Heath,” Bill asks, “What’s wrong?”
“Why?” Heath asks.
“I don’t know,” Bill says, “You look like something’s bothering you.”
Shaking his head, “Not sure,” Heath replies, “But I’ve got this strange eerily sensation,” as he grips the reins tightly they proceed past the undergrowth.
“You want us to turn around?” Bill wanted to know.
“We can’t,” Heath tells him, “We still have to find Jim and Johnny. Come on,” as they continue moving past it Heath scans and studies the shadows, trying to figure out what exactly he senses.
tbc
