Post by sandymarek on Mar 30, 2013 20:21:46 GMT -4
Part 427
Inside the Kitchen
Coming into the kitchen, “Mother,” Audra says, “They should be here any time now.”
“Yes I know,” Victoria replies.
Back at the store “You’re in luck, Mr. Barkley” The woman announces “I have exactly 35 right here” showing them “If you should need a couple more I have them too.”
“If I find that I do need more,” Jarrod says, “I’ll do just that.”
“Do you need any help with getting them loaded?” She asks.
“No,” Jarrod replies, “We could do it.”
“And how about you take care of paying for them,” Nick suggests, “While we take them out to the wagon?”
“Just what I was thinking,” Jarrod replies.
“Come on,” Nick says, “Everyone pitch in.”
And while everyone pitches in with bringing them out to the back of the wagon Jarrod remains behind to pay for them in which he asks, “How much?”
“That would be $52.50,” she informs him.
Pulling three $20 bills out of his pocket Jarrod hands them to the woman who in turn takes them over to the counter and after exchanging the amount for the receipt and his change she tells him, “Have a good day. And come again.”
“Thank you,” Jarrod replies, “And I just might” as he exits the store and upon joining the others, “Are we ready?” he asks.
“Ready,” everyone answers with Nick saying, “Let’s go. Time is a-wasting,” and with that Jarrod climbs into the back with Nick being the designated driver this time and as he steers the team he heads them in the direction of the ranch.
9/9/12
After returning to the log cabin with the 35 purchased bed rolls, Nick, Jack and Bill go inside while Jarrod returns the wagon back to the barn and Gene with the rest of the children in tow go inside the house to inform them they are back.
“Why don’t you all go upstairs” Victoria suggests “And get washed?”
“Should we go and change as well?” Diane wanted to know.
“That won’t be necessary,” Sherry replies, “You look fine just the way you are.”
“Us too?” Melanie asks.
“You’re all dressed fine,” Victoria informs her.
“Mrs. Barkley,” Sue Ann asks, “How should we act?”
“Just like you are,” Victoria tells them.
“Would you,” Audra offers, “Like for us to go get Mr. Jenkins?”
“Go ahead,” Victoria replies, “Bring the others back with you as well.”
“Come on,” Audra says to the girls and while Gene and the other children go up the stairs to get washed up Audra and the girls quickly head for the log cabin who in turn meets up with them as they are exiting Jarrod’s property.
After saying a quick hello, they walk them back to the house, “Mother,” Audra calls out, “Here they are. We met them halfway.”
“Oh good,” Victoria replies as she wipes her hands on a towel.
Meanwhile back in Stockton after Duke goes to check on the men in the bunkhouse and is satisfied they are doing alright he heads back to the ridge. On the way there he sees Tom Barkley’s gravesite, dismounts and goes over to it.
Getting down on one knee and exhaling heavily “Tom” he starts off with saying “I kept meaning to stop by but being so busy around here one thing led to another and I just didn’t manage to find the time. I will tell you that we are still short handed and have been for quite some time now, but thought now is as good a time as any to come and visit with you. I sure do miss you, you have no idea. But you also must know by now that you have another son, Heath. Victoria, Jarrod and Nick have all been up here and I’m sure they’ve talked about him quite a bit to you” with a smile on his face “You would be very proud to know him. He is a very nice young man who is very smart.”
“The only downfall to him is that he had to live a very sheltered life but with the help of the entire family here he has made excellent progress and even Nick who at the beginning was the hardest to get through to, became the one who turned him around the most and because of it he and Heath have developed a great relationship together. And whatever Heath does he does well and does with great accuracy and precision. As the days progress and grow I could see the two of them working along here side by side for many years to come and because of it this ranch will indeed surely benefit well from it.”
“However at the moment, the family,” Duke goes on to say, “As well as your brother Jim who came here to meet Heath as well as your two nephews Jack and Jim are all down in San Francisco getting ready to take on a very dangerous mission. Please do your best to watch over all of them so they could return and be united with the rest of their families that are here now. Take care!” sighing heavily “I’ll try to stop by on a more regular basis.”
Getting up Duke mounts back up on his horse and heads back to the South Pasture to resume work on the branding that he still has left to do.
Back in San Francisco-Jarrod’s House
9/13/12
The families are now all gathered in the living room waiting patiently and impatiently for the arrival of their guests with the womenfolk inside the kitchen making sure they have everything ready for their guests. Looking over at the grandfather clock whose pendulum is moving back and forth “Almost 5:00” Heath announces.
Upon saying, “That it is,” Nick exchanges pleasing smiles with Jarrod.
“Maybe they’re not coming,” Billy replies.
“They’ll be here,” Jarrod informs him.
Just then as the clock begins sounding 5, they hear the sound of horses as well as voices outside, “I think they’re here” Gene mentions.
“I think you’re right” Jarrod replies.
“I guess,” Neil comments, “We could say they’re on time.”
“That we could,” Bill remarks as Jarrod quickly heads to the door to greet them.
As the governor piles out of the buggy Mr. Benton, his body guard stays a couple feet ahead of him while the Chief Commissioner and his son Alan dismount from their horses and as they are approaching the walk Gene goes into the kitchen to let them know they have arrived.
Proceeding onto the front door Mr. Benton is just about to knock when Jarrod opens the door to welcome them in.
Glancing about, “Is this everyone?” Mr. Benton asks forcefully.
“Except for our mother,” Diane mentions, “She’s in the kitchen with their mother.”
“Our brother Gene,” Audra says, “Just went to inform them you’ve arrived.”
Glancing about the room, “I’ve met some of you before,” Alan brings up.
“Yes,” Ed replies, “You have.”
“And,” Ray adds, “Not so long ago.”
“Before we come in” Mr. Benton then says “I need to make certain this house is safe and there isn’t anyone outside lurking about outside of who we are seeing anyplace about.”
“You’re more than welcomed” Jarrod suggests “To search if it’ll make you feel better.”
“It would,” Mr. Benton notes, “But if I went and scouted around then the governor here would be by himself.”
“I wouldn’t call with us all here,” Nick says, “Being by himself.”
“One can’t be too careful,” Mr. Benton retorts, “Mr. Barkley.”
“How about” the Chief Commissioner suggests “If I go and scout about that way you” glancing over at Mr. Benton “Could remain here with the governor while I make sure he is safe.”
“I’ll come too,” the Commissioner’s son Alan replies.
“Come with me,” Jarrod says.
While Jarrod proceeds to take both the Commissioner and his son Alan up the stairs, Victoria coming out of the kitchen takes the initiative and after greeting the governor and Mr. Benton she is handed a duffle bag quickly asking, “What is this?”
“The ransom money” the governor replies “That was being used for your release.”
Taking it and upon opening it to see the contents inside briefly “Where did you get this?” she asks.
“At the Missionary where you were being held” The governor notes “We found it in one of the rooms we were going through.”
“Well,” she says, “Thank you, thank you very much.”
“No problem,” he replies.
After closing the bag back up Victoria begins introducing the governor and Mr. Benton to everyone gathered inside the living room starting with her brother-in-law Jim and upon going around the room she continues until she gets to Heath who once locks eye contact with the governor, “We’ve met before haven’t we?” the governor asks.
As Heath begins extending his hand out, the features on his face change quickly and he immediately pulls away, nods his head and responds, “We have.”
Audra observing the altercation between them quickly asks, “You two have met before?”
“Yes,” Heath replies and quickly goes out the front door.
“I could see why he’s not happy with me,” the governor blurts out.
“And why would that be?” Nick asks sarcastically.
“Where was it exactly that you and Heath met?” Victoria asks.
“A ranch far up north,” the governor begins to say, “Several years back.”
“Up north?” Nick asks, “Just how far north?”
“In a town called,” The governor brings up, “Eldorado.”
“How did I know that,” Nick retorting then asks, “You didn’t happen to know of any families up that way, did you?”
“As a matter of fact I did,” the governor points out, “There is a ranch that belonged to a family, Wheeler.”
“Figured as much,” Nick says, “And that’s why he’s not happy with you.”
“Yes,” the governor acknowledges.
“Excuse me,” Nick then says as he quickly heads out the door after Heath.
“You knew of the Wheeler family?” Victoria asks.
“I knew Mr. Wheeler,” the governor acknowledges, “Grant Wheeler. He and I use to work out of a ship together.”
“You knew of Mr. Wheeler?” Uncle Jim asks.
“I did,” The governor replies.
“And” Ed asks.
Outside near the Fountain
As Nick moves alongside of Heath “Want to talk?” he asks as he places his hand on his shoulder.
“I’ve met him before” Heath answers “I thought I didn’t know him but I do or rather should I say did.”
“Yes, I know” Nick surmises, “He wasn’t much help to you back then.”
Shaking his head “No” Heath says “I use to see him when he was at the Wheelers’ walking around with Mr. Wheeler. I use to see them laughing.”
“Were they laughing at you” Nick asks.
“No” Heath replies “Don’t think so, but they would be laughing having a real good ol’ time while…” walking away.
Nick staying with him answers, “You weren’t,” finishing the sentence for him.
Watching Heath shake his head “I don’t know much about governors but” Heath says “The way I heard Jarrod talk about him, he sounded like… I don’t know…something special.”
“To Jarrod he is” Nick answers, “Jarrod didn’t know about his knowing the Wheelers nor did I nor did anybody else in the family. This is the first we heard about it. But do you know Heath I really don’t know much about him either, I only met him a couple times myself and I don’t recall too much about what he said or did back then and what I am about to say may or may not be of any use to you although I do hope it will be.”
“What?” Heath asks.
“Maybe,” Nick says, “Just maybe you might be pre-judging the man.”
“I don’t understand” Heath asks “What do you mean?”
“There is a slight chance,” Nick brings up, “That he didn’t know about Wheeler’s side business. I mean his holding all of you.”
“You don’t think he knew,” Heath says.
“Not sure” Nick replies “But coming out here I slightly heard him say something that gave me the impression that just maybe he didn’t know. And at the time you were at the Wheelers he wasn’t yet governor. And just because they traveled a ship together which I heard him say he did, doesn’t exactly mean he knew they were into the shanghaiing business and when we had Wheeler and Deak working for us, if it wasn’t for you we wouldn’t have known anything about their side business either, so it’s just possible that they kept their secret business from him too; another thing that makes me think he didn’t know.”
“What’s that,” Heath asks.
“When Jarrod and I took the governor to the back of the alley where the fight took place I saw and heard something in him that made me think that he was truly sorry for what occurred and right now, we do need his help” Nick mentions.
“We do?” Heath asks.
“To get it to stop,” Nick says, “If he doesn’t or can’t do something, there won’t be any stopping it and it would mean more boys, more men being captured and turned over to these ships. You don’t want that?”
Shaking his head, “No,” Heath answers, “I don’t.”
“So,” Nick suggests, “What do you say we go back inside and hear what he has to say?”
Thinking, “Very well,” Heath says.
Replying “Good boy,” Nick placing his arm around him again says, “It’s going to be alright and if anything should go wrong I am right here beside you. However we do need to be doing this, because we do need more help than what we have available ourselves.”
As Jarrod, Commissioner O’Hara and his son Alan are reaching the top landing they hear Victoria saying, “You should be ashamed of yourself.”
Part 428
“I am,” The governor replies, “I am appalled as well as disgusted with myself.”
Turning their attention to the three of them coming down the stairs, “Well?” Mr. Benton asks.
“Everything is quiet,” the Commissioner mentions.
“There isn’t anyone” Alan adds “Outside of who is down here now inside of the house.”
Glancing about and hearing some of the commotion that was going on, “What’s happened?” Jarrod asks, “Where are…?” glancing about with Eugene answering, “Nick and Heath? They went outside.”
“Why?” Jarrod asks.
“Heath knows the governor,” Audra mentions.
“He met him,” Gene adds, “Up at some ranch that a family called Wheeler owned.”
“You knew the Wheeler family?” Jarrod wanted to know.
“I knew Grant,” the governor goes on to say, “In my younger days he and I traveled on a ship together. When I went to his ranch a few times for visits on occasion I saw Heath there, he was much younger back then.”
“He did more than just operate a mere ranch,” Jarrod points out.
“Yes, he did” the governor acknowledges “Back then whenever I saw the boys he had there, I just assumed they didn’t have any families and Grant was merely giving them a place to live.”
“Many of them did have families,” Jarrod states, “And he did more than just give them a place to live.”
“I found that out,” The governor says, “Whenever I think of all those poor boys,” shaking his head in disgust, “Without going into all of the details at the moment,” as he looks about at each of the children gathered around the room.
“That would be a good idea,” Jarrod notes.
“Why didn’t you do something for them?” Jack asks.
“Because,” The governor goes on to say, “I didn’t know.”
“How is that possible?” Jim Jr asks.
“He was very good at keeping it quiet,” The governor mentions, “But it just makes me sick every time I think about it.”
“Well,” Ed brings up, “You should be. All those boys and you did nothing to help them.”
“Once again” Ray joins in with “You’ve turned a blind eye to everything that is going on. You did it back then and you’re still doing it now. You and this police department” as he looks to the Commissioner and Alan “Who were all sworn in to protect the laws and to protect its citizens. When does it end?”
“Now,” the governor then says, “I would like a word with Heath, if I may.”
“That might be a good idea,” Victoria then says, “Jarrod will you please go get him?”
Quickly going to the door and upon opening it Jarrod calls out, “Nick, Heath, won’t you please come in here?”
“You ready?” Nick asks of Heath.
“I guess so,” Heath answers, “Let’s go,” and as they walk back in Nick still has his arm around his shoulder.
10/4/12
Going back inside, “Heath,” Jarrod says at the doorway, “The governor would like to talk with you.”
Victoria asks, “Heath, you alright?”
“I’m alright,” Heath answers.
Nick quietly asks everyone outside of the family to leave the room and quickly excusing themselves, Ray and Sherry, followed by Mr. Jenkins, the five men who were being held at the Missionary, the Commissioner and his son Alan, Ed and Bill Sempleworth and the children including Audra and Gene all exit the house to give Heath and the governor a chance to talk without a large audience.
Benton remains in the room as the governor begins addressing Heath.
“Heath,” the governor says.
“Yes,” Heath replies.
“I know this may not be much” The governor says “But I want you to know how truly ashamed and sorry I am for what you had to go through. If I knew more about what was going on back then I would’ve intercepted and put a stop to it.”
“Would you have?” Nick asks, “Why didn’t you?”
“Because I didn’t know,” The governor mentions.
“How is that possible?” Nick asks “You were a friend of Mr. Wheeler, you and he traveled on a ship together, you visited his ranch on numerous occasions and yet you stand there and say that you didn’t know? Going to that ranch, didn’t you notice the huge fence he had built all around the perimeter?”
“I saw it,” the governor mentions.
“And you didn’t think nothing of it” Nick wanted to know.
“Yes and no.” The governor acknowledges, “On occasion I did want so much to ask him why he had it but each time I saw it, each time I meant to ask him, he somehow found a way to cloud my mind with other things.”
“Yes,” Nick barks, “I heard about the grand old time you two were having while my brother wasn’t.”
“Nick,” Jarrod starts to say with Nick quickly replying, “No, I’m sorry but we have to address this and he needs to hear this,” then quickly turning back to the governor he resumes, “This wasn’t just a simple ranch that Mr. Wheeler operated Governor, this ranch was a prison rather a child labor camp and my brother is here today because a couple of the young boys at that time managed to escape and make their way out of there to be able to alert someone of what was going on there.”
“I heard they went through hell,” The governor says.
“That is an understatement,” Nick barks, “You don’t have the slightest idea of what they went through.”
As the governor opens his mouth to speak Nick quickly continues and then the governor changes his mind to listen.
“That fence was built,” Nick mentions, “To keep these boys all inside so they couldn’t get out without someone seeing them. They had that place so guarded that these boys were kept under lock and key, they were kept, I don’t know if you’re aware of it or not, but these boys didn’t sleep inside of a bunkhouse like most normal regular hands would be, these boys were kept inside of a very small stall inside of the barn, each of these boys were placed inside of these small cubicles.”
“That I didn’t know,” The governor admits.
“My god,” Mr. Benton replies.
“I did notice the barn,” the governor notes, “But I did not know that is what he did with them. Every time we went near the barn I so much wanted to see what was inside.”
“Then,” Nick asks, “Why didn’t you?”
“Because,” the governor brings up, “Once again Grant always found a way to get me away from pursuing the question and it would go right out of my head.”
“It seems like you’re making excuses for him,” Nick states.
“No,” The governor replies, “I truly had no idea of any of this.”
“Well Governor, I have you to know,” Nick resumes, “That the three boys that managed to break free of that prison made their way out of there and were able to alert someone about what was going on there. And if it weren’t for these good Samaritans who went there and rescued them, my brother and many of these other boys that were there may not even be here today.”
“Who is this good Samaritan?” The governor wanted to know.
“Glad you ask,” Nick says, “The Good Samaritan just so happens to be a sheriff or was a sheriff who is not perfect by any means and right now is locked up inside of a jail cell waiting for a trial to come up for a crime he didn’t commit and yet there are people such as yourself who are running around this country free and clear and are more interested in putting your own-self interests ahead of others that needed you and needed you badly.”
“Who is this sheriff?” The governor asks.
“Warren Hawkins,” Nick says, “I don’t know if you ever heard of him or not but he’s a friend of my brother’s here. He along with a few others he managed to get to go with him went up to this Wheeler ranch and when they got there they had to rescue sixty boys.”
“Did I hear you right?” The governor inquires, “Sixty boys?”
“Sixty,” Nick reiterated, “Sixty boys from this hell-hole of a ranch and out of those 60, only 32 managed to survive. And not only that but my brother being one of them when he was rescued was so sick that it took not only the sheriff but many of the volunteers who were willing to help them with getting them back on their feet again and with their help they managed to round this Wheeler family and their cronies up.”
“Could I ask you” Benton joins in with “How your brother managed to be up there? From what I understand you all live in Stockton.”
“We do,” Heath answers.
“That is correct we do,” Nick says, “It’s a long story of some of which we rather not get into however; we could say that two of their connections brought him there. They would find boys such as Heath, all over the country and lure them to trust them and bring them to this prison of a ranch. They would keep them there until a ship they were connected with came in and would eventually turn them over for a price. ”
“And,” Nick continues, “Not only did they have these sixty young boys there but it just so happened that they were the last sixty. And that is because they were finally stopped and justice was finally served on them. Now perhaps if you intervened a lot sooner when you had the opportunity to do so my brother here, not to mention all those others before him may have been spared the abuse and atrocities they had to endure. And do you want to know something else? Your friend Mr. Wheeler was in this business for approximately 30 years.”
“Thirty years?” The governor inquires.
“Yes,” Nick replies, “Thirty years and from my doing the math, part of those thirty years you would’ve had to of traveled a ship with him. That would explain how he got involved in the shanghaiing business to begin with and just look how far north he was when he did.”
“My God,” The governor says, “I didn’t know.”
“Governor, maybe you didn’t know” Uncle Jim joins in, “But now you know of its existence. And even though you may not be able to do anything about the past of what occurred you could do something about it now and make it stop.”
“I quite agree” the governor acknowledges “And I shall. Heath…” he begins to say.
“Let me go,” Jarrod replies, “And bring everyone back in.”
“Go ahead,” Victoria tells him.
While Jarrod goes to bring everyone back inside, the governor continues, “I would like to learn more about your friend, Sheriff Hawkins find out more of what he is being held on and see what I could do with helping his case.”
“I’d like that,” Heath admits.
10/27/12
As everyone piles back inside Audra asks, “Is everything alright,” a little concerned.
Running his right pointer finger alongside of her cheek “Everything’s fine,” Jarrod assures her.
“What did we miss out on?” Gene wanted to know.
“Not now Gene,” Victoria says.
“We’ll go into it later,” Nick informs him.
Victoria says, “Shall everyone take a seat?” as everyone promptly does as she says and takes a seat she then asks, “Could we get you anything?”
“No,” the Commissioner answers, “Not right now, thank you.”
“I’m good,” the governor acknowledges.
“Okay,” Jarrod suggests, “How about we get started?”
“Good idea,” Nick answers.
“Where should we begin?” Alan glances around the room then asks “Or rather who should begin?”
“Begin” John Jenkins raising his voice says “I’ll begin. I have a brother-in-law who was shanghaied three years ago and hasn’t been seen or heard from since.”
“There is so much to bring up” Ray mentions “That I don’t even know where to begin. You have a police department that is so corrupt that you can’t see straight.”
“You have,” Nick adds, “Businesses all along the waterfront some further away hidden waiting for some helpless sap to come into their establishment.”
“Like us,” Terry announces as he speaks for the five of them.
“Not to mention the many watchers” Nick says “That keep their eyes peeled for anyone that they think will make a good candidate for their operation. They lure them in; kind of like how The Wheelers lured the boys back when they were fully operational” looking to the governor as he speaks “You have these crimps and runners all over the state who looks for these vulnerable victims to turn over to these ship captains for money and as Mr. Jenkins just pointed out they are shanghaied and placed on board these ships to possibly never to be heard from again.”
“And on top of that” Ed mentions “You have the police department as it was stated so corrupt that they look the other way when this is all happening or are bribed and getting paid a nice sum just for keeping mum about it.”
“And Governor” Jarrod brings up “Just look at what you saw this morning. Not to mention what occurred up at the Wheeler’s ranch, this kind of stuff has been going on for a very long time.”
“We do understand,” The Commissioner mentions, “The situation.”
“A lot of what occurred” Alan brings up “My father wasn’t even the Commissioner at the time and I wasn’t a part of the force at all yet either.”
“We know that” Victoria mentions “But if we don’t do something now it won’t ever stop.”
“And it’s funny,” Jim Sr brings up, “Slavery was abolished back in 1865 and yet it is still going on, maybe not under the same name but it’s still the same thing. Shanghaiing is just the modern name for it.”
“I know,” the Governor says.
“We too realize,” Alan mentions, “There is a problem here.”
“A problem” Nick retorts, “It’s more than that. There are lives at stake.”
“We realize that too,” The Commissioner mentions.
“I will tell you,” Alan brings up, “Not everyone in the police department is as corrupt as you think they are. I and a few others would like to see this come to an end. But we are so overpowered not to mention understaffed.”
“We realize that too” Jarrod says “Now we know what needs to be done isn’t going to be easy to diffuse but if we don’t start doing something and do something real soon it will never have an opportunity to end. It will keep going on and on.”
“I quite agree” The governor replies “And you’re right it has indeed gone on way too long.”
“Indeed it has” Jim Sr brings up “And now that we are all in agreement and in this together, it is time for us all to work out some kind of strategy. Once we finish here the rest will be up to you to take care of. Agreed?”
“Agreed,” comes from the commissioner followed by the governor and then Alan.
Part 429
“Alright,” The governor says, “How do we proceed?”
“Before we get started,” Nick brings up, “You may be interested to know that there are men locked up in the cellar of Alfredo’s Saloon.”
“What men?” The Commissioner asks.
Replying “Glad you asked,” Nick goes on to inform them about what transpired at Alfredo’s Saloon between his men and the ones trying to lure them in. Finishing he says, “Now unless someone’s come by to let them out that is where they are at the moment.”
“Some of what you just described,” The governor notes, “Sounds a little like something we encountered this morning.”
“Governor,” Ray points out, “It’s everywhere; not just here but up the coast as well as down the coast.”
“I realize that,” The governor says, “And once we finish here, I assure you we will do something about them.”
“The question,” Alan brings up, “Is what?”
“What do you mean?” The governor asks.
“If we” Alan replies “Free the men they have locked in the cellar or try to move them from where they are now someone watching as it has been put will inform others of what is going on which will make it harder on those trying to move them. They’ll be tackled before they even get halfway to wherever they are headed.”
“Which is the big problem here,” The Commissioner acknowledges.
“But you are the police” Bill says “You are suppose to be here to uphold justice.”
“I understand that” The Commissioner acknowledges “And like all of you here I too want to see this come to an end but as my son just pointed out we are very overpowered and very understaffed. And any little thing we do, has to be completely thought out thoroughly with no margin for error, otherwise you will be putting other peoples lives in jeopardy. We don’t very well want to add to it.”
“That we do not,” Victoria states, “But we do need to find a way to get it started and then proceed from there.”
“At least,” Jim Sr brings up, “By us discussing it now will help us with coming up with an idea or rather a solution to it all.”
“We too,” Billy mentions, “Saw some of those men being held in cellars of businesses they were in last night.”
“I believe,” The governor glancing over at the children gathered brings up, “You are the boys that witnessed the murder.”
“They are,” Jarrod says.
“You could say that,” Kyle replies.
“Would you mind telling us what happened?” The governor asks.
“Sure,” Todd replies.
“Do you want us to tell you everything,” Neil asks, “We’ve seen from the time we left here until we got to the alleyway where it all occurred?”
“I think” Gene brings up “It’s best we save some of what we saw for another time.”
“You mean,” Neil asks, “Like the couple on the porch?”
“Uh-huh,” Gene replies.
“Yes,” Victoria joins in with, “Save that for another time.”
“See?” Gene then says.
“Very well,” Neil disappointedly replies.
As the boys glance about, “I’ll start then,” Billy announces.
“Go ahead,” Victoria says.
“As we went out looking for you” Billy explains “We went down various streets. Before we reached the waterfront we heard music coming from some of the buildings but we kept right on going. Reaching the waterfront we saw all kinds of things occurring, we saw men being led to the ships and the captains I believe they were barking orders and watching as the other men were being led onto the ships.”
“Kyle,” Gene mentions, “Said the ones leading the men to the ships are called crimps.”
“That’s what they are alright,” Nick retorts.
“They had” Billy notes “Batons and guns in their hands in case the ones being placed on board tried to leave or if they tried to do anything.”
“We also saw” Gene adds “And heard other men coming in the direction we were in but we quickly stayed hidden in the undergrowth where we were at. Kyle said we couldn’t trust any of them.”
“He is right about that,” Alan snickers.
“That was my first time seeing the ocean,” Gene says, “And I didn’t realize how much water there actually was out there. And it went on forever it seemed.”
“What happened next Gene?” Jarrod asks.
“After leaving the pier,” Gene says, “We began going down the various streets that connect to there.”
“As we,” Billy joins in, “Went down in back of some of the buildings we saw in the cellars on the floors men sleeping. Todd said they were being held and waiting for a ship that was connected to that establishment came in.”
“He’s right about that,” Jarrod replies.
“Keep going,” Nick encourages.
“Todd,” Billy brings up, “Also said that is almost what happened to Bill when he went snooping about.”
“Yes,” Bill mentions, “Thanks to them I am still here.”
“But,” Ray says, “You wouldn’t be if things didn’t go the way they did.”
“True,” Bill acknowledges.
“Let’s keep going,” Nick says, “Continue with what you saw.”
“After traveling down a few more streets” Billy replies “And going towards some of the other buildings using the back alleyways is how we were led to the Wards’ home.”
“How’s that?” The Governor asks.
“We heard noise,” Neil mentions, “Coming from the Wards’ House and that is how we came up on the men who were doing the fighting; as some of them were talking very loud brought us to the back of their building.”
“We heard one man Vic,” Todd says, “The one that was killed saying ‘We want to see your boss Mr. White.”
“As we began climbing,” Billy adds, “Up on top of the railing to get a better view of what was occurring, they began fighting.”
“As Kyle and I,” Gene says, “Joined them and were looking inside as the fight was continuing we heard them say something about money being owed to them and that they wanted it and wanted it now.”
“They said,” Billy joins in, “They were owed 200 something and weren’t going to leave until they got it.”
Glancing over at Kyle “Kyle” Sarah asks quietly “Why aren’t you contributing to any of this?” as he shrugs his shoulders he quietly tells her “I have my reasons”
Sarah raising an eyebrow wonders what is going on inside of his head.
“And as Mr. White,” Neil says, “Said ‘okay, okay, let me get it for you…”
“That is,” Todd adds, “When we saw the gun in Mr. White’s hand.”
“Seconds later” Billy says “We heard the shot go off and then we saw the two men, Mr. White and Vic fighting for the gun. Kyle then said we needed to get out of there.”
“Then,” Neil adds, “Todd and I saw Mr. White shoot Vic in the chest. And as we were making tracks I lost my footing.”
“And then everything else just” Gene says “Happened so quickly. Two of Mr. White’s men were bringing Vic’s body outside and then as we were starting to run is when we found ourselves being surrounded first by the woman holding the rifle.”
“One of the men from the Missionary” Neil adds, “Had a gun on me telling me don’t move.”
“Then” Todd adds “The other men from the Missionary came out. They were going to kill us, they were going to kill me first; I was never so scared in my entire life.”
“I could understand,” The Governor acknowledges, “It being a very traumatic experience for you.”
“At least it’s over with now,” Sherry joins in with.
Holding onto his chest with his right hand, “Yes,” Todd declares, “Thank goodness. I don’t ever want to go through something like that again.”
“Neither do I,” Gene replies.
“And that’s basically it?” Jarrod asks.
“Yes,” Gene answers, “We really don’t know what else happened. You all showed up and the fighting resumed and then we saw Mother and…”
“That’s quite alright, Gene” Victoria says, “You told us enough.”
“I,” Billy comes out with, “Wish we could help some of those men we saw in the cellar of those buildings.”
“And we will,” Ray replies, “That is why we’re all here to help them.”
“Now the question is,” Jim Jr. brings up, “What can we all do to help them and to have this come to an end?”
“Good question,” Nick replies.
“And we need a good answer,” Alan brings up.
“I have a few ideas,” Heath mentions.
“I do too,” Jack says.
“Let’s hear them,” Victoria suggests.
“First” Jack brings up “It would help if we know when these ships are coming in. From what I understand is you’re interested in a ship called the Grizzly Bear.”
“Yes,” Jarrod replies, “There are actually two we’re interested in, that one and the one called the Goliath.”
“But,” Jack adds, “From what I understand the Goliath isn’t on its way in however the Grizzly Bear is.”
“Correct,” Jarrod answers.
“Could I ask,” Jim Jr inquires, “Why you’re so interested in those two ships coming in, if you don’t mind my asking?”
“No problem,” Jarrod replies, “Both of these ships have ties to Heath and to our father, they also have ties to the railroad not to mention several others.”
“They do?” The governor asks.
“Yes,” Jarrod explains.
“You said they have ties to your father?” Uncle Jim joining in asks.
“They do,” Nick says.
“How do you know this?” Uncle Jim wanted to know.
“It might help if we go into some of this from the beginning so that it makes sense,” Jarrod hypothesizes.
“Go ahead,” Uncle Jim says, “I want to hear.”
“So would I,” The Governor adds.
“It all began a couple weeks ago,” Jarrod mentions, “Prior to us making the trip here or the trip to Echo Lake, just shortly before you came Uncle Jim,” as he looks over at him, “We were asking Heath about his uncle and his connection to the Wheelers how he knew them and one thing led to another and come to find out the sheriff had a few items that we found belonged to these two ships.”
“What items?” Uncle Jim asks.
Answering “These here” Jarrod shows him the matches that have the Grizzly Bear inscription on them and the black sailor’s cap with the Goliath’s inscription on it “Heath saw these items at his Uncle’s hotel and came out with the names Mr. Hornsby, Mr. Mackenzie, the sheriff of Strawberry had them and so did Mr. Moore, Mr. Wells and I believe his uncle did.”
“He did,” Heath joins in with.
After Uncle Jim finishes looking at the items he quietly passes them along to the others to let them see.
“Heath,” Jarrod asks, “Want to help us out?”
“Mr. Mackenzie and Mr. Hornsby came to the hotel of my uncle’s and he gave them a room.” Heath explains “While they were talking at first when I was in the room they as well as Mr. Moore and Mr. Wells would be looking me over. At the time they did that I didn’t understand it but then they asked my uncle who I was and he would tell them I was his bastard nephew and that he was keeping me there while Mama worked at the saloon.”
“I,” Heath continues, “Then heard Mr. Moore ask Mr. Mackenzie what do you think to which he said he does show some interest and then said something like would Matt want to part with him to which Uncle Matt said he wanted me out of his life for good, I was giving him and his hotel a bad name.”
Watching as Audra and Gene are squirming about slightly listening to Heath’s explanation Victoria quietly goes over to them and upon placing a hand on each of their shoulders Audra followed by Gene quietly return the gesture as they each place a hand on her arm indicating they are alright as they listen to what is being said.
“They then had me turn around,” Heath continues, “Mr. Hornsby then asked me if I ever seen a Grizzly Bear before and at the time I thought he meant a real Grizzly Bear. It never occurred to me that he was referring to a ship.”
“Go on Heath,” The Governor encourages.
Heath says, “He then said maybe one day you could see a real one up close and as I stood there shrugging my shoulders because I really didn’t know what he was talking about he said something like maybe in a few years we or I just might. And then when we were having that discussion several days prior to my uncle showing up that is when I came to realize that the Grizzly Bear they were referring to was the ship.”
“The Wheelers were also involved with Mr. Mackenzie,” Heath brings up.
“How is that?” The governor asks.
“I remember seeing Mr. Mackenzie with Mr. Wheeler,” Heath mentions, “I remember hearing them talking.”
“What did they say,” Uncle Jim inquires, “Do you know?”
“I heard Mr. Mackenzie asking Mr. Wheeler,” Heath says, “When the Goliath is due in and he would say it’s due in at the end of the month. When I return quote unquote,” looking at Nick as he replies that who in turn gives him a quick suppressed smile, “From Truckee I will take the two we discussed meaning two of the older boys that were there at the Wheelers.”
“So,” The Governor inquires, “They actually mentioned the Goliath by name?”
“They did,” Heath replies, “Yes.”
“Do you know of why he was going to Truckee?” The Governor wanted to know.
“Said something,” Heath mentions, “About a business meeting he had there and then something about acquiring property.”
“What kind of property?” The governor asks.
“Not sure,” Heath replies, “That is when they walked away and I couldn’t hear anything more being said.”
Part 430
“Heath,” Uncle Jim asks, “How long ago did this take place?”
“You mean the talk about them going to Truckee for the business meeting?” Heath asks.
“Yes,” Uncle Jim replies.
“It would’ve been when I was up there,” Heath says, “Months before I was to be rescued by Warren.”
“It would’ve been six years ago” Jarrod joining in mentions.
“Was there anything else,” the Governor asks, “That you could recall?”
“A little more,” Heath answers.
“Would you share it with us?” Uncle Jim asks.
“When I was first brought to the Wheelers’ ranch I remember,” Heath replies, “Seeing them load a couple of the men into a wagon and then they would ride out. I heard them say something like seeing you are down two, you will be needing two more and then I heard Mr. Wheeler say I already have this one here, which he was referring to me” pointing to himself, “but if you should see any good candidates bring them this way, I may have space for them. And then I heard them say perhaps one day we could come there with train loads.”
“Anything else,” Uncle Jim wanted to know.
“I also remember seeing,” Heath states, “Mr. Hornsby looking over a couple of us and then would be having some of them be loaded up into a wagon and I remember hearing them say that will be ten and then I saw Mr. Hornsby handing Mr. Wheeler money.”
“You mean” The Commissioner asks “For the ten men that Mr. Hornsby was taking?”
Shrugging his shoulders, “I guess,” Heath replies, “I am only telling you what I remembered seeing.”
“And you’re doing just fine Heath,” Uncle Jim tells him.
“Yes,” the governor adds, “You are doing very well. Please continue with whatever else you may have to offer.”
“Once” Heath says “When I was in the Wheeler house I heard them asking when will Mr. Petersen be returning to which Mr. Wheeler said once he finished his business up in Truckee.”
“Keep going Heath,” Jarrod then mentions, “I am sure you’re going to find this next piece rather interesting, Governor.”
“I heard him say” Heath brings up “The name Hoak. He was going up there to meet with him.”
“Hoak,” Uncle Jim says, “Where have I heard that name before?”
“Try,” Jarrod replies, “The Coastal and Western Railroad.”
“Your father,” Uncle Jim points out, “Had a run in with them.”
“Quite a few,” Jarrod notes.
“Anything else?” The governor wanted to know.
“No,” Heath replies, “That is all I could think of or remembered.”
“You did just fine Heath,” Victoria comments.
“Yes you did,” Uncle Jim adds.
Nodding his head “This is all beginning to make sense now” the governor replies.
“Very interesting” Benton replies.
“Yes it is,” Uncle Jim says, “Now it explains a little of how the Wheelers, the Grizzly Bear, The Goliath and the Railroad all tie into all this together.”
“It does indeed,” The governor acknowledges, “Hoak, Crown and Hannibal Jordan.”
“You are correct, Governor,” Jarrod with his crooked smile remarks.
“And I think the business meeting they had up in Truckee had to do with the railroad coming into California,” Uncle Jim mentions.
“I believe you’re right,” The governor says, “Speaking of which later on Jarrod (as he looks over at him) you and I need to talk when we have a free minute.”
“I was hoping you would,” Jarrod notes, “But first things first.”
“It would help if we knew a little more about this Mr. Hornsby and Mr. Mackenzie,” Jim Jr insists.
“It would indeed,” Jim Sr states.
“Maybe I could help a little,” Victoria suggests.
“How?” Jim Sr asks.
“Jim” Victoria joins in with “I believe their meeting being held in Truckee did indeed have to do with the railroad coming in and it’s possible that either one of those two men Mr. Hornsby or Mr. Mackenzie or both of them resided up that way.”
“What makes you say that?” Jim Sr asks.
“First” Victoria says “Heath said that Mr. Hornsby had ten of the men or boys that were being held at the Wheelers loaded into a wagon. So maybe he had them driven to his place of residence if it is indeed someplace at or around Truckee, unless he was putting them on board the train there. And secondly Robert, one of the men that were being held with us in the cellar of the Missionary was killed but I remembered him telling me that he was brought to San Francisco by way of the train. I asked him where he lived and he said Carson City. He said he went to Truckee for work and while there he was captured.”
“It does indeed make sense,” Jim Sr replies, “And it sure does fit the pattern of how they operate.”
“Yes it does,” Ed says, “It would help if we knew for a fact whether or not they do have ranches up that way and if so how do they conduct their business.”
“I wonder just how,” Jack brings up, “They work with the railroad; I mean do they actually work for the railroad or do they just have connections to it where they make some kind of arrangement for their prisoners that they’ve captured to be delivered to San Francisco to these ships coming in.”
“That is a very good question Jack,” Jarrod replies.
“I wouldn’t be surprised,” Ray remarks.
“Nothing with these people,” John Jenkins retorts, “Surprises me in the least.”
“It’s something,” Jim Sr replies, “We definitely need to find out however.”
“Yes we do” Nick barks “We need to squash anything and everything that has to do with these crooked people.”
“We do indeed,” Jarrod says.
“From the way Heath mentioned,” Ed brings up, “Mr. Mackenzie may not be living in Truckee.”
“What makes you think that?” Bill asks.
“Because,” Ed replies, “He said when Mr. Mackenzie quote unquote returns from his meeting at Truckee he will take the two they discussed. So perhaps once he finished his meeting there he would’ve came back to pick up the two men they discussed and take them to wherever he had plans on keeping them held until the Grizzly Bear came in or whatever other ship they work with came in. And it’s very possible that they did have dealings with the railroad.”
“It would also seem,” Jim Jr mentions, “That somehow Mr. Wheeler was the head honcho in all of this.”
“That would be my guess,” Jarrod notes, “But whether he was or not or whatever involvement the others had with him or with each other, for right now let’s concentrate on the Grizzly Bear coming in.”
“I agree” Jim Sr replies “And the rest we could leave for the governor to deal with.”
“I too quite agree,” Nick adds.
“That’ll be fine” The governor acknowledges “And I assure you I will be taking care of it.”
“It’s about time Governor,” Nick responds.
“Yes it is,” The governor replies.
“Heath,” Jarrod then says, “If this Mr. Mackenzie or Mr. Hornsby should somehow be around would you be able to recognize them if you saw them?”
“Very well Jarrod,” Heath notes.
“What made you bring that up Jarrod?” Nick asks.
Shrugging, “Just a hunch,” Jarrod says, “If they should be in town they may be around to help with loading up their crew.”
“What about Mr. Peterson?” Uncle Jim asks.
“No,” Heath shaking his head answers, “I never met him only heard his name.”
“So” Uncle Jim says, “Whatever we do we will have to be on the lookout for them while at the same time being on the lookout for the Grizzly Bear coming in.”
“Exactly,” Jarrod replies.
“Does anyone” Jim Jr asks “Know of how these ships travel? I mean when they do come in to pick up their deliveries, when do they leave and when do they return again?”
“When they do come in” Mr. Benton notes “Usually they make their exchanges with these crimps in the wee hours of the morning.”
“I believe most ships,” Alan says, “From what I know of them make trips every three years.”
“That is correct they do,” Dean joining in the conversation mentions.
“And how would you know that?” Jack asks.
“I am here from Scotland,” Dean mentions.
Listening intently, “You’re here from Scotland?” Sue Ann joining in inquires.
“I am yes,” Dean admits.
Quietly talking amongst themselves in the background, “Where is Scotland” Kimmy asks to which Sherry quietly answers “It’s quite far from here.”
“How far?” Noah asks.
“You know where the piers are?” Sherry asks.
“Yeah,” Noah followed by Kimmy replies.
“Do you know where the water on the other side of it is,” Sherry says.
“Of course,” Noah answers, “That is where the ships come in.”
“And that is how he came here,” Sherry informs them.
“You mean he came here on a ship?” Penny joining in asks.
“Yes” Sherry replies “Now shh!” she tells them “Listen!” while the others continue talking.
“You were shanghaied?” Melanie asks.
“I was,” Dean answers.
“They do this kind of thing there?” Melanie asks.
“They do this kind of thing everywhere” Dean states “This would be my third run with these ships.”
“Wow!” Melanie exclaims.
“Third run?” Sherry asks.
“Aye,” Dean replies.
“How is it that this is your third run with them?” Sherry wanted to know.
“Because I’ve been with them for two other times already” Dean explains “And the only reason I didn’t go with them this time is the ship that they had dealings with was full and they decided to hold me over for the next available ship that came in.”
“So,” Bill says, “You know how they operate?”
“Very well, indeed,” Dean replies.
“Maybe you could be of some use to us,” Alan suggests.
“If I can,” Dean says.
“From what I know of it,” Alan brings up, “When the ship does come in they come here for a short time, they may choose to stay on for a couple days or so but then they would pick up their merchandise as they would put it and leave.”
“That is correct,” Dean replies.
“There is that word again,” Victoria says.
“What word,” Alan asks.
“Merchandise,” Victoria replies, “I heard it being used a lot while I was being held in the Missionary.”
“That is what they refer to” Alan mentions “Their property even if they are men that is what they call them, their merchandise.”
“It’s horrible,” Victoria says.
“Everything,” Sherry joins in with, “About what they do is horrible.”
“It sure would help if we knew when the Grizzly Bear is due in” The governor says “I mean we know it’s coming in but we don’t have an exact date.”
“I tried to get that,” Ed mentions, “But never did manage to. I do know that it will be docking in New York before making its way to here.”
“New York?” The Commissioner mimics.
“We told you,” Ray joins in with, “It’s not just here.”
“It’s here” Sherry brings up “It’s everywhere. It’s even on the other side of the world.”
“Yes it is,” Alan replies, “But some of it is out of our hands.”
“True,” The Governor acknowledges, “But maybe I could do some good with reaching out to some of the other governors throughout the country.”
“That may be a good idea,” Uncle Jim replies, “And the more the people are aware of what is going on the more it could definitely be put to rest permanently.”
“Dean,” The Governor suggests, “Maybe you could be of some help.”
“If I can,” Dean replies.
“When we finish here,” The governor suggests, “And if you choose to return to your country maybe you could work on something with your people there.”
“I would like that,” Dean says, “And when I do get back home I will see what I could do with meeting with others who feel the way I do and see what can be done with shutting this operation down for good!”
“What about the rest of you?” The governor asks, “Are any of you from outside of here?”
“I am not,” Paul answers, “I reside outside San Francisco.”
“I came here,” Ferdinand replies, “From San Rafael.”
“I’m here,” Vernon says, “From Daly City.”
“I came here from Kentucky” Terry announces “I came here looking for work. I found myself going to the Missionary and while in there I was talking to a young woman and the last thing I remembered I was having a drink and the next I woke up to find myself in the cellar on a mattress looking up at Mrs. Barkley and the others being held.”
“Once again it” Ed says “Fits the pattern of how all these establishments pretty much do their dirty work.”
“Yes, it does,” Bill replies.
tbc
Inside the Kitchen
Coming into the kitchen, “Mother,” Audra says, “They should be here any time now.”
“Yes I know,” Victoria replies.
Back at the store “You’re in luck, Mr. Barkley” The woman announces “I have exactly 35 right here” showing them “If you should need a couple more I have them too.”
“If I find that I do need more,” Jarrod says, “I’ll do just that.”
“Do you need any help with getting them loaded?” She asks.
“No,” Jarrod replies, “We could do it.”
“And how about you take care of paying for them,” Nick suggests, “While we take them out to the wagon?”
“Just what I was thinking,” Jarrod replies.
“Come on,” Nick says, “Everyone pitch in.”
And while everyone pitches in with bringing them out to the back of the wagon Jarrod remains behind to pay for them in which he asks, “How much?”
“That would be $52.50,” she informs him.
Pulling three $20 bills out of his pocket Jarrod hands them to the woman who in turn takes them over to the counter and after exchanging the amount for the receipt and his change she tells him, “Have a good day. And come again.”
“Thank you,” Jarrod replies, “And I just might” as he exits the store and upon joining the others, “Are we ready?” he asks.
“Ready,” everyone answers with Nick saying, “Let’s go. Time is a-wasting,” and with that Jarrod climbs into the back with Nick being the designated driver this time and as he steers the team he heads them in the direction of the ranch.
9/9/12
After returning to the log cabin with the 35 purchased bed rolls, Nick, Jack and Bill go inside while Jarrod returns the wagon back to the barn and Gene with the rest of the children in tow go inside the house to inform them they are back.
“Why don’t you all go upstairs” Victoria suggests “And get washed?”
“Should we go and change as well?” Diane wanted to know.
“That won’t be necessary,” Sherry replies, “You look fine just the way you are.”
“Us too?” Melanie asks.
“You’re all dressed fine,” Victoria informs her.
“Mrs. Barkley,” Sue Ann asks, “How should we act?”
“Just like you are,” Victoria tells them.
“Would you,” Audra offers, “Like for us to go get Mr. Jenkins?”
“Go ahead,” Victoria replies, “Bring the others back with you as well.”
“Come on,” Audra says to the girls and while Gene and the other children go up the stairs to get washed up Audra and the girls quickly head for the log cabin who in turn meets up with them as they are exiting Jarrod’s property.
After saying a quick hello, they walk them back to the house, “Mother,” Audra calls out, “Here they are. We met them halfway.”
“Oh good,” Victoria replies as she wipes her hands on a towel.
Meanwhile back in Stockton after Duke goes to check on the men in the bunkhouse and is satisfied they are doing alright he heads back to the ridge. On the way there he sees Tom Barkley’s gravesite, dismounts and goes over to it.
Getting down on one knee and exhaling heavily “Tom” he starts off with saying “I kept meaning to stop by but being so busy around here one thing led to another and I just didn’t manage to find the time. I will tell you that we are still short handed and have been for quite some time now, but thought now is as good a time as any to come and visit with you. I sure do miss you, you have no idea. But you also must know by now that you have another son, Heath. Victoria, Jarrod and Nick have all been up here and I’m sure they’ve talked about him quite a bit to you” with a smile on his face “You would be very proud to know him. He is a very nice young man who is very smart.”
“The only downfall to him is that he had to live a very sheltered life but with the help of the entire family here he has made excellent progress and even Nick who at the beginning was the hardest to get through to, became the one who turned him around the most and because of it he and Heath have developed a great relationship together. And whatever Heath does he does well and does with great accuracy and precision. As the days progress and grow I could see the two of them working along here side by side for many years to come and because of it this ranch will indeed surely benefit well from it.”
“However at the moment, the family,” Duke goes on to say, “As well as your brother Jim who came here to meet Heath as well as your two nephews Jack and Jim are all down in San Francisco getting ready to take on a very dangerous mission. Please do your best to watch over all of them so they could return and be united with the rest of their families that are here now. Take care!” sighing heavily “I’ll try to stop by on a more regular basis.”
Getting up Duke mounts back up on his horse and heads back to the South Pasture to resume work on the branding that he still has left to do.
Back in San Francisco-Jarrod’s House
9/13/12
The families are now all gathered in the living room waiting patiently and impatiently for the arrival of their guests with the womenfolk inside the kitchen making sure they have everything ready for their guests. Looking over at the grandfather clock whose pendulum is moving back and forth “Almost 5:00” Heath announces.
Upon saying, “That it is,” Nick exchanges pleasing smiles with Jarrod.
“Maybe they’re not coming,” Billy replies.
“They’ll be here,” Jarrod informs him.
Just then as the clock begins sounding 5, they hear the sound of horses as well as voices outside, “I think they’re here” Gene mentions.
“I think you’re right” Jarrod replies.
“I guess,” Neil comments, “We could say they’re on time.”
“That we could,” Bill remarks as Jarrod quickly heads to the door to greet them.
As the governor piles out of the buggy Mr. Benton, his body guard stays a couple feet ahead of him while the Chief Commissioner and his son Alan dismount from their horses and as they are approaching the walk Gene goes into the kitchen to let them know they have arrived.
Proceeding onto the front door Mr. Benton is just about to knock when Jarrod opens the door to welcome them in.
Glancing about, “Is this everyone?” Mr. Benton asks forcefully.
“Except for our mother,” Diane mentions, “She’s in the kitchen with their mother.”
“Our brother Gene,” Audra says, “Just went to inform them you’ve arrived.”
Glancing about the room, “I’ve met some of you before,” Alan brings up.
“Yes,” Ed replies, “You have.”
“And,” Ray adds, “Not so long ago.”
“Before we come in” Mr. Benton then says “I need to make certain this house is safe and there isn’t anyone outside lurking about outside of who we are seeing anyplace about.”
“You’re more than welcomed” Jarrod suggests “To search if it’ll make you feel better.”
“It would,” Mr. Benton notes, “But if I went and scouted around then the governor here would be by himself.”
“I wouldn’t call with us all here,” Nick says, “Being by himself.”
“One can’t be too careful,” Mr. Benton retorts, “Mr. Barkley.”
“How about” the Chief Commissioner suggests “If I go and scout about that way you” glancing over at Mr. Benton “Could remain here with the governor while I make sure he is safe.”
“I’ll come too,” the Commissioner’s son Alan replies.
“Come with me,” Jarrod says.
While Jarrod proceeds to take both the Commissioner and his son Alan up the stairs, Victoria coming out of the kitchen takes the initiative and after greeting the governor and Mr. Benton she is handed a duffle bag quickly asking, “What is this?”
“The ransom money” the governor replies “That was being used for your release.”
Taking it and upon opening it to see the contents inside briefly “Where did you get this?” she asks.
“At the Missionary where you were being held” The governor notes “We found it in one of the rooms we were going through.”
“Well,” she says, “Thank you, thank you very much.”
“No problem,” he replies.
After closing the bag back up Victoria begins introducing the governor and Mr. Benton to everyone gathered inside the living room starting with her brother-in-law Jim and upon going around the room she continues until she gets to Heath who once locks eye contact with the governor, “We’ve met before haven’t we?” the governor asks.
As Heath begins extending his hand out, the features on his face change quickly and he immediately pulls away, nods his head and responds, “We have.”
Audra observing the altercation between them quickly asks, “You two have met before?”
“Yes,” Heath replies and quickly goes out the front door.
“I could see why he’s not happy with me,” the governor blurts out.
“And why would that be?” Nick asks sarcastically.
“Where was it exactly that you and Heath met?” Victoria asks.
“A ranch far up north,” the governor begins to say, “Several years back.”
“Up north?” Nick asks, “Just how far north?”
“In a town called,” The governor brings up, “Eldorado.”
“How did I know that,” Nick retorting then asks, “You didn’t happen to know of any families up that way, did you?”
“As a matter of fact I did,” the governor points out, “There is a ranch that belonged to a family, Wheeler.”
“Figured as much,” Nick says, “And that’s why he’s not happy with you.”
“Yes,” the governor acknowledges.
“Excuse me,” Nick then says as he quickly heads out the door after Heath.
“You knew of the Wheeler family?” Victoria asks.
“I knew Mr. Wheeler,” the governor acknowledges, “Grant Wheeler. He and I use to work out of a ship together.”
“You knew of Mr. Wheeler?” Uncle Jim asks.
“I did,” The governor replies.
“And” Ed asks.
Outside near the Fountain
As Nick moves alongside of Heath “Want to talk?” he asks as he places his hand on his shoulder.
“I’ve met him before” Heath answers “I thought I didn’t know him but I do or rather should I say did.”
“Yes, I know” Nick surmises, “He wasn’t much help to you back then.”
Shaking his head “No” Heath says “I use to see him when he was at the Wheelers’ walking around with Mr. Wheeler. I use to see them laughing.”
“Were they laughing at you” Nick asks.
“No” Heath replies “Don’t think so, but they would be laughing having a real good ol’ time while…” walking away.
Nick staying with him answers, “You weren’t,” finishing the sentence for him.
Watching Heath shake his head “I don’t know much about governors but” Heath says “The way I heard Jarrod talk about him, he sounded like… I don’t know…something special.”
“To Jarrod he is” Nick answers, “Jarrod didn’t know about his knowing the Wheelers nor did I nor did anybody else in the family. This is the first we heard about it. But do you know Heath I really don’t know much about him either, I only met him a couple times myself and I don’t recall too much about what he said or did back then and what I am about to say may or may not be of any use to you although I do hope it will be.”
“What?” Heath asks.
“Maybe,” Nick says, “Just maybe you might be pre-judging the man.”
“I don’t understand” Heath asks “What do you mean?”
“There is a slight chance,” Nick brings up, “That he didn’t know about Wheeler’s side business. I mean his holding all of you.”
“You don’t think he knew,” Heath says.
“Not sure” Nick replies “But coming out here I slightly heard him say something that gave me the impression that just maybe he didn’t know. And at the time you were at the Wheelers he wasn’t yet governor. And just because they traveled a ship together which I heard him say he did, doesn’t exactly mean he knew they were into the shanghaiing business and when we had Wheeler and Deak working for us, if it wasn’t for you we wouldn’t have known anything about their side business either, so it’s just possible that they kept their secret business from him too; another thing that makes me think he didn’t know.”
“What’s that,” Heath asks.
“When Jarrod and I took the governor to the back of the alley where the fight took place I saw and heard something in him that made me think that he was truly sorry for what occurred and right now, we do need his help” Nick mentions.
“We do?” Heath asks.
“To get it to stop,” Nick says, “If he doesn’t or can’t do something, there won’t be any stopping it and it would mean more boys, more men being captured and turned over to these ships. You don’t want that?”
Shaking his head, “No,” Heath answers, “I don’t.”
“So,” Nick suggests, “What do you say we go back inside and hear what he has to say?”
Thinking, “Very well,” Heath says.
Replying “Good boy,” Nick placing his arm around him again says, “It’s going to be alright and if anything should go wrong I am right here beside you. However we do need to be doing this, because we do need more help than what we have available ourselves.”
As Jarrod, Commissioner O’Hara and his son Alan are reaching the top landing they hear Victoria saying, “You should be ashamed of yourself.”
Part 428
“I am,” The governor replies, “I am appalled as well as disgusted with myself.”
Turning their attention to the three of them coming down the stairs, “Well?” Mr. Benton asks.
“Everything is quiet,” the Commissioner mentions.
“There isn’t anyone” Alan adds “Outside of who is down here now inside of the house.”
Glancing about and hearing some of the commotion that was going on, “What’s happened?” Jarrod asks, “Where are…?” glancing about with Eugene answering, “Nick and Heath? They went outside.”
“Why?” Jarrod asks.
“Heath knows the governor,” Audra mentions.
“He met him,” Gene adds, “Up at some ranch that a family called Wheeler owned.”
“You knew the Wheeler family?” Jarrod wanted to know.
“I knew Grant,” the governor goes on to say, “In my younger days he and I traveled on a ship together. When I went to his ranch a few times for visits on occasion I saw Heath there, he was much younger back then.”
“He did more than just operate a mere ranch,” Jarrod points out.
“Yes, he did” the governor acknowledges “Back then whenever I saw the boys he had there, I just assumed they didn’t have any families and Grant was merely giving them a place to live.”
“Many of them did have families,” Jarrod states, “And he did more than just give them a place to live.”
“I found that out,” The governor says, “Whenever I think of all those poor boys,” shaking his head in disgust, “Without going into all of the details at the moment,” as he looks about at each of the children gathered around the room.
“That would be a good idea,” Jarrod notes.
“Why didn’t you do something for them?” Jack asks.
“Because,” The governor goes on to say, “I didn’t know.”
“How is that possible?” Jim Jr asks.
“He was very good at keeping it quiet,” The governor mentions, “But it just makes me sick every time I think about it.”
“Well,” Ed brings up, “You should be. All those boys and you did nothing to help them.”
“Once again” Ray joins in with “You’ve turned a blind eye to everything that is going on. You did it back then and you’re still doing it now. You and this police department” as he looks to the Commissioner and Alan “Who were all sworn in to protect the laws and to protect its citizens. When does it end?”
“Now,” the governor then says, “I would like a word with Heath, if I may.”
“That might be a good idea,” Victoria then says, “Jarrod will you please go get him?”
Quickly going to the door and upon opening it Jarrod calls out, “Nick, Heath, won’t you please come in here?”
“You ready?” Nick asks of Heath.
“I guess so,” Heath answers, “Let’s go,” and as they walk back in Nick still has his arm around his shoulder.
10/4/12
Going back inside, “Heath,” Jarrod says at the doorway, “The governor would like to talk with you.”
Victoria asks, “Heath, you alright?”
“I’m alright,” Heath answers.
Nick quietly asks everyone outside of the family to leave the room and quickly excusing themselves, Ray and Sherry, followed by Mr. Jenkins, the five men who were being held at the Missionary, the Commissioner and his son Alan, Ed and Bill Sempleworth and the children including Audra and Gene all exit the house to give Heath and the governor a chance to talk without a large audience.
Benton remains in the room as the governor begins addressing Heath.
“Heath,” the governor says.
“Yes,” Heath replies.
“I know this may not be much” The governor says “But I want you to know how truly ashamed and sorry I am for what you had to go through. If I knew more about what was going on back then I would’ve intercepted and put a stop to it.”
“Would you have?” Nick asks, “Why didn’t you?”
“Because I didn’t know,” The governor mentions.
“How is that possible?” Nick asks “You were a friend of Mr. Wheeler, you and he traveled on a ship together, you visited his ranch on numerous occasions and yet you stand there and say that you didn’t know? Going to that ranch, didn’t you notice the huge fence he had built all around the perimeter?”
“I saw it,” the governor mentions.
“And you didn’t think nothing of it” Nick wanted to know.
“Yes and no.” The governor acknowledges, “On occasion I did want so much to ask him why he had it but each time I saw it, each time I meant to ask him, he somehow found a way to cloud my mind with other things.”
“Yes,” Nick barks, “I heard about the grand old time you two were having while my brother wasn’t.”
“Nick,” Jarrod starts to say with Nick quickly replying, “No, I’m sorry but we have to address this and he needs to hear this,” then quickly turning back to the governor he resumes, “This wasn’t just a simple ranch that Mr. Wheeler operated Governor, this ranch was a prison rather a child labor camp and my brother is here today because a couple of the young boys at that time managed to escape and make their way out of there to be able to alert someone of what was going on there.”
“I heard they went through hell,” The governor says.
“That is an understatement,” Nick barks, “You don’t have the slightest idea of what they went through.”
As the governor opens his mouth to speak Nick quickly continues and then the governor changes his mind to listen.
“That fence was built,” Nick mentions, “To keep these boys all inside so they couldn’t get out without someone seeing them. They had that place so guarded that these boys were kept under lock and key, they were kept, I don’t know if you’re aware of it or not, but these boys didn’t sleep inside of a bunkhouse like most normal regular hands would be, these boys were kept inside of a very small stall inside of the barn, each of these boys were placed inside of these small cubicles.”
“That I didn’t know,” The governor admits.
“My god,” Mr. Benton replies.
“I did notice the barn,” the governor notes, “But I did not know that is what he did with them. Every time we went near the barn I so much wanted to see what was inside.”
“Then,” Nick asks, “Why didn’t you?”
“Because,” the governor brings up, “Once again Grant always found a way to get me away from pursuing the question and it would go right out of my head.”
“It seems like you’re making excuses for him,” Nick states.
“No,” The governor replies, “I truly had no idea of any of this.”
“Well Governor, I have you to know,” Nick resumes, “That the three boys that managed to break free of that prison made their way out of there and were able to alert someone about what was going on there. And if it weren’t for these good Samaritans who went there and rescued them, my brother and many of these other boys that were there may not even be here today.”
“Who is this good Samaritan?” The governor wanted to know.
“Glad you ask,” Nick says, “The Good Samaritan just so happens to be a sheriff or was a sheriff who is not perfect by any means and right now is locked up inside of a jail cell waiting for a trial to come up for a crime he didn’t commit and yet there are people such as yourself who are running around this country free and clear and are more interested in putting your own-self interests ahead of others that needed you and needed you badly.”
“Who is this sheriff?” The governor asks.
“Warren Hawkins,” Nick says, “I don’t know if you ever heard of him or not but he’s a friend of my brother’s here. He along with a few others he managed to get to go with him went up to this Wheeler ranch and when they got there they had to rescue sixty boys.”
“Did I hear you right?” The governor inquires, “Sixty boys?”
“Sixty,” Nick reiterated, “Sixty boys from this hell-hole of a ranch and out of those 60, only 32 managed to survive. And not only that but my brother being one of them when he was rescued was so sick that it took not only the sheriff but many of the volunteers who were willing to help them with getting them back on their feet again and with their help they managed to round this Wheeler family and their cronies up.”
“Could I ask you” Benton joins in with “How your brother managed to be up there? From what I understand you all live in Stockton.”
“We do,” Heath answers.
“That is correct we do,” Nick says, “It’s a long story of some of which we rather not get into however; we could say that two of their connections brought him there. They would find boys such as Heath, all over the country and lure them to trust them and bring them to this prison of a ranch. They would keep them there until a ship they were connected with came in and would eventually turn them over for a price. ”
“And,” Nick continues, “Not only did they have these sixty young boys there but it just so happened that they were the last sixty. And that is because they were finally stopped and justice was finally served on them. Now perhaps if you intervened a lot sooner when you had the opportunity to do so my brother here, not to mention all those others before him may have been spared the abuse and atrocities they had to endure. And do you want to know something else? Your friend Mr. Wheeler was in this business for approximately 30 years.”
“Thirty years?” The governor inquires.
“Yes,” Nick replies, “Thirty years and from my doing the math, part of those thirty years you would’ve had to of traveled a ship with him. That would explain how he got involved in the shanghaiing business to begin with and just look how far north he was when he did.”
“My God,” The governor says, “I didn’t know.”
“Governor, maybe you didn’t know” Uncle Jim joins in, “But now you know of its existence. And even though you may not be able to do anything about the past of what occurred you could do something about it now and make it stop.”
“I quite agree” the governor acknowledges “And I shall. Heath…” he begins to say.
“Let me go,” Jarrod replies, “And bring everyone back in.”
“Go ahead,” Victoria tells him.
While Jarrod goes to bring everyone back inside, the governor continues, “I would like to learn more about your friend, Sheriff Hawkins find out more of what he is being held on and see what I could do with helping his case.”
“I’d like that,” Heath admits.
10/27/12
As everyone piles back inside Audra asks, “Is everything alright,” a little concerned.
Running his right pointer finger alongside of her cheek “Everything’s fine,” Jarrod assures her.
“What did we miss out on?” Gene wanted to know.
“Not now Gene,” Victoria says.
“We’ll go into it later,” Nick informs him.
Victoria says, “Shall everyone take a seat?” as everyone promptly does as she says and takes a seat she then asks, “Could we get you anything?”
“No,” the Commissioner answers, “Not right now, thank you.”
“I’m good,” the governor acknowledges.
“Okay,” Jarrod suggests, “How about we get started?”
“Good idea,” Nick answers.
“Where should we begin?” Alan glances around the room then asks “Or rather who should begin?”
“Begin” John Jenkins raising his voice says “I’ll begin. I have a brother-in-law who was shanghaied three years ago and hasn’t been seen or heard from since.”
“There is so much to bring up” Ray mentions “That I don’t even know where to begin. You have a police department that is so corrupt that you can’t see straight.”
“You have,” Nick adds, “Businesses all along the waterfront some further away hidden waiting for some helpless sap to come into their establishment.”
“Like us,” Terry announces as he speaks for the five of them.
“Not to mention the many watchers” Nick says “That keep their eyes peeled for anyone that they think will make a good candidate for their operation. They lure them in; kind of like how The Wheelers lured the boys back when they were fully operational” looking to the governor as he speaks “You have these crimps and runners all over the state who looks for these vulnerable victims to turn over to these ship captains for money and as Mr. Jenkins just pointed out they are shanghaied and placed on board these ships to possibly never to be heard from again.”
“And on top of that” Ed mentions “You have the police department as it was stated so corrupt that they look the other way when this is all happening or are bribed and getting paid a nice sum just for keeping mum about it.”
“And Governor” Jarrod brings up “Just look at what you saw this morning. Not to mention what occurred up at the Wheeler’s ranch, this kind of stuff has been going on for a very long time.”
“We do understand,” The Commissioner mentions, “The situation.”
“A lot of what occurred” Alan brings up “My father wasn’t even the Commissioner at the time and I wasn’t a part of the force at all yet either.”
“We know that” Victoria mentions “But if we don’t do something now it won’t ever stop.”
“And it’s funny,” Jim Sr brings up, “Slavery was abolished back in 1865 and yet it is still going on, maybe not under the same name but it’s still the same thing. Shanghaiing is just the modern name for it.”
“I know,” the Governor says.
“We too realize,” Alan mentions, “There is a problem here.”
“A problem” Nick retorts, “It’s more than that. There are lives at stake.”
“We realize that too,” The Commissioner mentions.
“I will tell you,” Alan brings up, “Not everyone in the police department is as corrupt as you think they are. I and a few others would like to see this come to an end. But we are so overpowered not to mention understaffed.”
“We realize that too” Jarrod says “Now we know what needs to be done isn’t going to be easy to diffuse but if we don’t start doing something and do something real soon it will never have an opportunity to end. It will keep going on and on.”
“I quite agree” The governor replies “And you’re right it has indeed gone on way too long.”
“Indeed it has” Jim Sr brings up “And now that we are all in agreement and in this together, it is time for us all to work out some kind of strategy. Once we finish here the rest will be up to you to take care of. Agreed?”
“Agreed,” comes from the commissioner followed by the governor and then Alan.
Part 429
“Alright,” The governor says, “How do we proceed?”
“Before we get started,” Nick brings up, “You may be interested to know that there are men locked up in the cellar of Alfredo’s Saloon.”
“What men?” The Commissioner asks.
Replying “Glad you asked,” Nick goes on to inform them about what transpired at Alfredo’s Saloon between his men and the ones trying to lure them in. Finishing he says, “Now unless someone’s come by to let them out that is where they are at the moment.”
“Some of what you just described,” The governor notes, “Sounds a little like something we encountered this morning.”
“Governor,” Ray points out, “It’s everywhere; not just here but up the coast as well as down the coast.”
“I realize that,” The governor says, “And once we finish here, I assure you we will do something about them.”
“The question,” Alan brings up, “Is what?”
“What do you mean?” The governor asks.
“If we” Alan replies “Free the men they have locked in the cellar or try to move them from where they are now someone watching as it has been put will inform others of what is going on which will make it harder on those trying to move them. They’ll be tackled before they even get halfway to wherever they are headed.”
“Which is the big problem here,” The Commissioner acknowledges.
“But you are the police” Bill says “You are suppose to be here to uphold justice.”
“I understand that” The Commissioner acknowledges “And like all of you here I too want to see this come to an end but as my son just pointed out we are very overpowered and very understaffed. And any little thing we do, has to be completely thought out thoroughly with no margin for error, otherwise you will be putting other peoples lives in jeopardy. We don’t very well want to add to it.”
“That we do not,” Victoria states, “But we do need to find a way to get it started and then proceed from there.”
“At least,” Jim Sr brings up, “By us discussing it now will help us with coming up with an idea or rather a solution to it all.”
“We too,” Billy mentions, “Saw some of those men being held in cellars of businesses they were in last night.”
“I believe,” The governor glancing over at the children gathered brings up, “You are the boys that witnessed the murder.”
“They are,” Jarrod says.
“You could say that,” Kyle replies.
“Would you mind telling us what happened?” The governor asks.
“Sure,” Todd replies.
“Do you want us to tell you everything,” Neil asks, “We’ve seen from the time we left here until we got to the alleyway where it all occurred?”
“I think” Gene brings up “It’s best we save some of what we saw for another time.”
“You mean,” Neil asks, “Like the couple on the porch?”
“Uh-huh,” Gene replies.
“Yes,” Victoria joins in with, “Save that for another time.”
“See?” Gene then says.
“Very well,” Neil disappointedly replies.
As the boys glance about, “I’ll start then,” Billy announces.
“Go ahead,” Victoria says.
“As we went out looking for you” Billy explains “We went down various streets. Before we reached the waterfront we heard music coming from some of the buildings but we kept right on going. Reaching the waterfront we saw all kinds of things occurring, we saw men being led to the ships and the captains I believe they were barking orders and watching as the other men were being led onto the ships.”
“Kyle,” Gene mentions, “Said the ones leading the men to the ships are called crimps.”
“That’s what they are alright,” Nick retorts.
“They had” Billy notes “Batons and guns in their hands in case the ones being placed on board tried to leave or if they tried to do anything.”
“We also saw” Gene adds “And heard other men coming in the direction we were in but we quickly stayed hidden in the undergrowth where we were at. Kyle said we couldn’t trust any of them.”
“He is right about that,” Alan snickers.
“That was my first time seeing the ocean,” Gene says, “And I didn’t realize how much water there actually was out there. And it went on forever it seemed.”
“What happened next Gene?” Jarrod asks.
“After leaving the pier,” Gene says, “We began going down the various streets that connect to there.”
“As we,” Billy joins in, “Went down in back of some of the buildings we saw in the cellars on the floors men sleeping. Todd said they were being held and waiting for a ship that was connected to that establishment came in.”
“He’s right about that,” Jarrod replies.
“Keep going,” Nick encourages.
“Todd,” Billy brings up, “Also said that is almost what happened to Bill when he went snooping about.”
“Yes,” Bill mentions, “Thanks to them I am still here.”
“But,” Ray says, “You wouldn’t be if things didn’t go the way they did.”
“True,” Bill acknowledges.
“Let’s keep going,” Nick says, “Continue with what you saw.”
“After traveling down a few more streets” Billy replies “And going towards some of the other buildings using the back alleyways is how we were led to the Wards’ home.”
“How’s that?” The Governor asks.
“We heard noise,” Neil mentions, “Coming from the Wards’ House and that is how we came up on the men who were doing the fighting; as some of them were talking very loud brought us to the back of their building.”
“We heard one man Vic,” Todd says, “The one that was killed saying ‘We want to see your boss Mr. White.”
“As we began climbing,” Billy adds, “Up on top of the railing to get a better view of what was occurring, they began fighting.”
“As Kyle and I,” Gene says, “Joined them and were looking inside as the fight was continuing we heard them say something about money being owed to them and that they wanted it and wanted it now.”
“They said,” Billy joins in, “They were owed 200 something and weren’t going to leave until they got it.”
Glancing over at Kyle “Kyle” Sarah asks quietly “Why aren’t you contributing to any of this?” as he shrugs his shoulders he quietly tells her “I have my reasons”
Sarah raising an eyebrow wonders what is going on inside of his head.
“And as Mr. White,” Neil says, “Said ‘okay, okay, let me get it for you…”
“That is,” Todd adds, “When we saw the gun in Mr. White’s hand.”
“Seconds later” Billy says “We heard the shot go off and then we saw the two men, Mr. White and Vic fighting for the gun. Kyle then said we needed to get out of there.”
“Then,” Neil adds, “Todd and I saw Mr. White shoot Vic in the chest. And as we were making tracks I lost my footing.”
“And then everything else just” Gene says “Happened so quickly. Two of Mr. White’s men were bringing Vic’s body outside and then as we were starting to run is when we found ourselves being surrounded first by the woman holding the rifle.”
“One of the men from the Missionary” Neil adds, “Had a gun on me telling me don’t move.”
“Then” Todd adds “The other men from the Missionary came out. They were going to kill us, they were going to kill me first; I was never so scared in my entire life.”
“I could understand,” The Governor acknowledges, “It being a very traumatic experience for you.”
“At least it’s over with now,” Sherry joins in with.
Holding onto his chest with his right hand, “Yes,” Todd declares, “Thank goodness. I don’t ever want to go through something like that again.”
“Neither do I,” Gene replies.
“And that’s basically it?” Jarrod asks.
“Yes,” Gene answers, “We really don’t know what else happened. You all showed up and the fighting resumed and then we saw Mother and…”
“That’s quite alright, Gene” Victoria says, “You told us enough.”
“I,” Billy comes out with, “Wish we could help some of those men we saw in the cellar of those buildings.”
“And we will,” Ray replies, “That is why we’re all here to help them.”
“Now the question is,” Jim Jr. brings up, “What can we all do to help them and to have this come to an end?”
“Good question,” Nick replies.
“And we need a good answer,” Alan brings up.
“I have a few ideas,” Heath mentions.
“I do too,” Jack says.
“Let’s hear them,” Victoria suggests.
“First” Jack brings up “It would help if we know when these ships are coming in. From what I understand is you’re interested in a ship called the Grizzly Bear.”
“Yes,” Jarrod replies, “There are actually two we’re interested in, that one and the one called the Goliath.”
“But,” Jack adds, “From what I understand the Goliath isn’t on its way in however the Grizzly Bear is.”
“Correct,” Jarrod answers.
“Could I ask,” Jim Jr inquires, “Why you’re so interested in those two ships coming in, if you don’t mind my asking?”
“No problem,” Jarrod replies, “Both of these ships have ties to Heath and to our father, they also have ties to the railroad not to mention several others.”
“They do?” The governor asks.
“Yes,” Jarrod explains.
“You said they have ties to your father?” Uncle Jim joining in asks.
“They do,” Nick says.
“How do you know this?” Uncle Jim wanted to know.
“It might help if we go into some of this from the beginning so that it makes sense,” Jarrod hypothesizes.
“Go ahead,” Uncle Jim says, “I want to hear.”
“So would I,” The Governor adds.
“It all began a couple weeks ago,” Jarrod mentions, “Prior to us making the trip here or the trip to Echo Lake, just shortly before you came Uncle Jim,” as he looks over at him, “We were asking Heath about his uncle and his connection to the Wheelers how he knew them and one thing led to another and come to find out the sheriff had a few items that we found belonged to these two ships.”
“What items?” Uncle Jim asks.
Answering “These here” Jarrod shows him the matches that have the Grizzly Bear inscription on them and the black sailor’s cap with the Goliath’s inscription on it “Heath saw these items at his Uncle’s hotel and came out with the names Mr. Hornsby, Mr. Mackenzie, the sheriff of Strawberry had them and so did Mr. Moore, Mr. Wells and I believe his uncle did.”
“He did,” Heath joins in with.
After Uncle Jim finishes looking at the items he quietly passes them along to the others to let them see.
“Heath,” Jarrod asks, “Want to help us out?”
“Mr. Mackenzie and Mr. Hornsby came to the hotel of my uncle’s and he gave them a room.” Heath explains “While they were talking at first when I was in the room they as well as Mr. Moore and Mr. Wells would be looking me over. At the time they did that I didn’t understand it but then they asked my uncle who I was and he would tell them I was his bastard nephew and that he was keeping me there while Mama worked at the saloon.”
“I,” Heath continues, “Then heard Mr. Moore ask Mr. Mackenzie what do you think to which he said he does show some interest and then said something like would Matt want to part with him to which Uncle Matt said he wanted me out of his life for good, I was giving him and his hotel a bad name.”
Watching as Audra and Gene are squirming about slightly listening to Heath’s explanation Victoria quietly goes over to them and upon placing a hand on each of their shoulders Audra followed by Gene quietly return the gesture as they each place a hand on her arm indicating they are alright as they listen to what is being said.
“They then had me turn around,” Heath continues, “Mr. Hornsby then asked me if I ever seen a Grizzly Bear before and at the time I thought he meant a real Grizzly Bear. It never occurred to me that he was referring to a ship.”
“Go on Heath,” The Governor encourages.
Heath says, “He then said maybe one day you could see a real one up close and as I stood there shrugging my shoulders because I really didn’t know what he was talking about he said something like maybe in a few years we or I just might. And then when we were having that discussion several days prior to my uncle showing up that is when I came to realize that the Grizzly Bear they were referring to was the ship.”
“The Wheelers were also involved with Mr. Mackenzie,” Heath brings up.
“How is that?” The governor asks.
“I remember seeing Mr. Mackenzie with Mr. Wheeler,” Heath mentions, “I remember hearing them talking.”
“What did they say,” Uncle Jim inquires, “Do you know?”
“I heard Mr. Mackenzie asking Mr. Wheeler,” Heath says, “When the Goliath is due in and he would say it’s due in at the end of the month. When I return quote unquote,” looking at Nick as he replies that who in turn gives him a quick suppressed smile, “From Truckee I will take the two we discussed meaning two of the older boys that were there at the Wheelers.”
“So,” The Governor inquires, “They actually mentioned the Goliath by name?”
“They did,” Heath replies, “Yes.”
“Do you know of why he was going to Truckee?” The Governor wanted to know.
“Said something,” Heath mentions, “About a business meeting he had there and then something about acquiring property.”
“What kind of property?” The governor asks.
“Not sure,” Heath replies, “That is when they walked away and I couldn’t hear anything more being said.”
Part 430
“Heath,” Uncle Jim asks, “How long ago did this take place?”
“You mean the talk about them going to Truckee for the business meeting?” Heath asks.
“Yes,” Uncle Jim replies.
“It would’ve been when I was up there,” Heath says, “Months before I was to be rescued by Warren.”
“It would’ve been six years ago” Jarrod joining in mentions.
“Was there anything else,” the Governor asks, “That you could recall?”
“A little more,” Heath answers.
“Would you share it with us?” Uncle Jim asks.
“When I was first brought to the Wheelers’ ranch I remember,” Heath replies, “Seeing them load a couple of the men into a wagon and then they would ride out. I heard them say something like seeing you are down two, you will be needing two more and then I heard Mr. Wheeler say I already have this one here, which he was referring to me” pointing to himself, “but if you should see any good candidates bring them this way, I may have space for them. And then I heard them say perhaps one day we could come there with train loads.”
“Anything else,” Uncle Jim wanted to know.
“I also remember seeing,” Heath states, “Mr. Hornsby looking over a couple of us and then would be having some of them be loaded up into a wagon and I remember hearing them say that will be ten and then I saw Mr. Hornsby handing Mr. Wheeler money.”
“You mean” The Commissioner asks “For the ten men that Mr. Hornsby was taking?”
Shrugging his shoulders, “I guess,” Heath replies, “I am only telling you what I remembered seeing.”
“And you’re doing just fine Heath,” Uncle Jim tells him.
“Yes,” the governor adds, “You are doing very well. Please continue with whatever else you may have to offer.”
“Once” Heath says “When I was in the Wheeler house I heard them asking when will Mr. Petersen be returning to which Mr. Wheeler said once he finished his business up in Truckee.”
“Keep going Heath,” Jarrod then mentions, “I am sure you’re going to find this next piece rather interesting, Governor.”
“I heard him say” Heath brings up “The name Hoak. He was going up there to meet with him.”
“Hoak,” Uncle Jim says, “Where have I heard that name before?”
“Try,” Jarrod replies, “The Coastal and Western Railroad.”
“Your father,” Uncle Jim points out, “Had a run in with them.”
“Quite a few,” Jarrod notes.
“Anything else?” The governor wanted to know.
“No,” Heath replies, “That is all I could think of or remembered.”
“You did just fine Heath,” Victoria comments.
“Yes you did,” Uncle Jim adds.
Nodding his head “This is all beginning to make sense now” the governor replies.
“Very interesting” Benton replies.
“Yes it is,” Uncle Jim says, “Now it explains a little of how the Wheelers, the Grizzly Bear, The Goliath and the Railroad all tie into all this together.”
“It does indeed,” The governor acknowledges, “Hoak, Crown and Hannibal Jordan.”
“You are correct, Governor,” Jarrod with his crooked smile remarks.
“And I think the business meeting they had up in Truckee had to do with the railroad coming into California,” Uncle Jim mentions.
“I believe you’re right,” The governor says, “Speaking of which later on Jarrod (as he looks over at him) you and I need to talk when we have a free minute.”
“I was hoping you would,” Jarrod notes, “But first things first.”
“It would help if we knew a little more about this Mr. Hornsby and Mr. Mackenzie,” Jim Jr insists.
“It would indeed,” Jim Sr states.
“Maybe I could help a little,” Victoria suggests.
“How?” Jim Sr asks.
“Jim” Victoria joins in with “I believe their meeting being held in Truckee did indeed have to do with the railroad coming in and it’s possible that either one of those two men Mr. Hornsby or Mr. Mackenzie or both of them resided up that way.”
“What makes you say that?” Jim Sr asks.
“First” Victoria says “Heath said that Mr. Hornsby had ten of the men or boys that were being held at the Wheelers loaded into a wagon. So maybe he had them driven to his place of residence if it is indeed someplace at or around Truckee, unless he was putting them on board the train there. And secondly Robert, one of the men that were being held with us in the cellar of the Missionary was killed but I remembered him telling me that he was brought to San Francisco by way of the train. I asked him where he lived and he said Carson City. He said he went to Truckee for work and while there he was captured.”
“It does indeed make sense,” Jim Sr replies, “And it sure does fit the pattern of how they operate.”
“Yes it does,” Ed says, “It would help if we knew for a fact whether or not they do have ranches up that way and if so how do they conduct their business.”
“I wonder just how,” Jack brings up, “They work with the railroad; I mean do they actually work for the railroad or do they just have connections to it where they make some kind of arrangement for their prisoners that they’ve captured to be delivered to San Francisco to these ships coming in.”
“That is a very good question Jack,” Jarrod replies.
“I wouldn’t be surprised,” Ray remarks.
“Nothing with these people,” John Jenkins retorts, “Surprises me in the least.”
“It’s something,” Jim Sr replies, “We definitely need to find out however.”
“Yes we do” Nick barks “We need to squash anything and everything that has to do with these crooked people.”
“We do indeed,” Jarrod says.
“From the way Heath mentioned,” Ed brings up, “Mr. Mackenzie may not be living in Truckee.”
“What makes you think that?” Bill asks.
“Because,” Ed replies, “He said when Mr. Mackenzie quote unquote returns from his meeting at Truckee he will take the two they discussed. So perhaps once he finished his meeting there he would’ve came back to pick up the two men they discussed and take them to wherever he had plans on keeping them held until the Grizzly Bear came in or whatever other ship they work with came in. And it’s very possible that they did have dealings with the railroad.”
“It would also seem,” Jim Jr mentions, “That somehow Mr. Wheeler was the head honcho in all of this.”
“That would be my guess,” Jarrod notes, “But whether he was or not or whatever involvement the others had with him or with each other, for right now let’s concentrate on the Grizzly Bear coming in.”
“I agree” Jim Sr replies “And the rest we could leave for the governor to deal with.”
“I too quite agree,” Nick adds.
“That’ll be fine” The governor acknowledges “And I assure you I will be taking care of it.”
“It’s about time Governor,” Nick responds.
“Yes it is,” The governor replies.
“Heath,” Jarrod then says, “If this Mr. Mackenzie or Mr. Hornsby should somehow be around would you be able to recognize them if you saw them?”
“Very well Jarrod,” Heath notes.
“What made you bring that up Jarrod?” Nick asks.
Shrugging, “Just a hunch,” Jarrod says, “If they should be in town they may be around to help with loading up their crew.”
“What about Mr. Peterson?” Uncle Jim asks.
“No,” Heath shaking his head answers, “I never met him only heard his name.”
“So” Uncle Jim says, “Whatever we do we will have to be on the lookout for them while at the same time being on the lookout for the Grizzly Bear coming in.”
“Exactly,” Jarrod replies.
“Does anyone” Jim Jr asks “Know of how these ships travel? I mean when they do come in to pick up their deliveries, when do they leave and when do they return again?”
“When they do come in” Mr. Benton notes “Usually they make their exchanges with these crimps in the wee hours of the morning.”
“I believe most ships,” Alan says, “From what I know of them make trips every three years.”
“That is correct they do,” Dean joining in the conversation mentions.
“And how would you know that?” Jack asks.
“I am here from Scotland,” Dean mentions.
Listening intently, “You’re here from Scotland?” Sue Ann joining in inquires.
“I am yes,” Dean admits.
Quietly talking amongst themselves in the background, “Where is Scotland” Kimmy asks to which Sherry quietly answers “It’s quite far from here.”
“How far?” Noah asks.
“You know where the piers are?” Sherry asks.
“Yeah,” Noah followed by Kimmy replies.
“Do you know where the water on the other side of it is,” Sherry says.
“Of course,” Noah answers, “That is where the ships come in.”
“And that is how he came here,” Sherry informs them.
“You mean he came here on a ship?” Penny joining in asks.
“Yes” Sherry replies “Now shh!” she tells them “Listen!” while the others continue talking.
“You were shanghaied?” Melanie asks.
“I was,” Dean answers.
“They do this kind of thing there?” Melanie asks.
“They do this kind of thing everywhere” Dean states “This would be my third run with these ships.”
“Wow!” Melanie exclaims.
“Third run?” Sherry asks.
“Aye,” Dean replies.
“How is it that this is your third run with them?” Sherry wanted to know.
“Because I’ve been with them for two other times already” Dean explains “And the only reason I didn’t go with them this time is the ship that they had dealings with was full and they decided to hold me over for the next available ship that came in.”
“So,” Bill says, “You know how they operate?”
“Very well, indeed,” Dean replies.
“Maybe you could be of some use to us,” Alan suggests.
“If I can,” Dean says.
“From what I know of it,” Alan brings up, “When the ship does come in they come here for a short time, they may choose to stay on for a couple days or so but then they would pick up their merchandise as they would put it and leave.”
“That is correct,” Dean replies.
“There is that word again,” Victoria says.
“What word,” Alan asks.
“Merchandise,” Victoria replies, “I heard it being used a lot while I was being held in the Missionary.”
“That is what they refer to” Alan mentions “Their property even if they are men that is what they call them, their merchandise.”
“It’s horrible,” Victoria says.
“Everything,” Sherry joins in with, “About what they do is horrible.”
“It sure would help if we knew when the Grizzly Bear is due in” The governor says “I mean we know it’s coming in but we don’t have an exact date.”
“I tried to get that,” Ed mentions, “But never did manage to. I do know that it will be docking in New York before making its way to here.”
“New York?” The Commissioner mimics.
“We told you,” Ray joins in with, “It’s not just here.”
“It’s here” Sherry brings up “It’s everywhere. It’s even on the other side of the world.”
“Yes it is,” Alan replies, “But some of it is out of our hands.”
“True,” The Governor acknowledges, “But maybe I could do some good with reaching out to some of the other governors throughout the country.”
“That may be a good idea,” Uncle Jim replies, “And the more the people are aware of what is going on the more it could definitely be put to rest permanently.”
“Dean,” The Governor suggests, “Maybe you could be of some help.”
“If I can,” Dean replies.
“When we finish here,” The governor suggests, “And if you choose to return to your country maybe you could work on something with your people there.”
“I would like that,” Dean says, “And when I do get back home I will see what I could do with meeting with others who feel the way I do and see what can be done with shutting this operation down for good!”
“What about the rest of you?” The governor asks, “Are any of you from outside of here?”
“I am not,” Paul answers, “I reside outside San Francisco.”
“I came here,” Ferdinand replies, “From San Rafael.”
“I’m here,” Vernon says, “From Daly City.”
“I came here from Kentucky” Terry announces “I came here looking for work. I found myself going to the Missionary and while in there I was talking to a young woman and the last thing I remembered I was having a drink and the next I woke up to find myself in the cellar on a mattress looking up at Mrs. Barkley and the others being held.”
“Once again it” Ed says “Fits the pattern of how all these establishments pretty much do their dirty work.”
“Yes, it does,” Bill replies.
tbc
