Post by sandymarek on Nov 13, 2013 7:09:57 GMT -4
Part 435
As everyone gets up and heads back in the direction they came Nick grabs hold of Gene’s arm and pulling him aside, “Gene,” he says, “I want to apologize to you.”
“For what?” Gene asks.
“For a lot,” Nick says, “I know I’ve been very hard on you for a very long time but I do want you to know that I am truly grateful for what you told us about this place and I am sorry for not trying to listen to you. When we finish here and get back to the ranch, somehow I want us to work on clearing the air. I want us to get to know each other as brothers.”
Smiling, “I’d like that,” Gene replies.
“So would I,” Nick then says, “Come on,” and quickly going to catch up with the others they first make a stop at the shack to return the periscope and then reaching their horses they all mount up and as they exit the wooded area they begin going their separate ways.
Jarrod and Ray head down to the pier to go see A.J. and Artie, Nick goes with Chad and Davy to Alfredo’s and the governor and Mr. Benton escort the boys back to Jarrod’s.
3/28/13
Reaching the end of the pier Jarrod and Ray go their separate ways.
While Jarrod dismounts and goes inside A.J’s Café, Ray goes down the way to Artie’s Pharmacy and upon dismounting he goes inside.
After walking in and being greeted they patiently wait until all the customers leave and while waiting graciously accept a drink.
Once they are finally alone, “So,” Artie says, “What brings you down this way?”
“Need a favor from you,” Ray says.
“Another one?” Artie asks, “Does this have anything to do with Mrs. Barkley?”
“No, no, not this time” Ray replies “She has been found and is back home safe and sound.”
“That’s good news,” Artie says, “Sure glad she was found.”
Nodding, “Same here,” Ray replies, “However there is another reason I came.”
“Oh?” Artie says.
Ray then goes on to fill him in on about what is going to be happening on Saturday night. Meanwhile back at A.J’s Café, once the last of the customers depart A.J. begins talking with Jarrod and after learning Mrs. Barkley is back home safely and out of the kidnappers clutches, “Thank goodness Jarrod,” he tells him, “That is a relief to hear.”
“Thank you,” Jarrod replies, “A.J., I need a favor from you.”
“Another one?” A.J. says, “Tell me what it is and I’ll see what I could do with making good on it.”
Jarrod then goes to fill him in on what they plan on doing Saturday night. After hearing all the details A.J clearing his throat informs him, “That is one tall order.”
“Yes, it is,” Jarrod acknowledges, “Which is why I’m coming to you to assist us with passing the word along to those you see to have it cleared for the one night. Right now, Ray Denton is doing the same with Artie.”
“How about,” A.J. says, “If I tell you that I will do my best.”
“That will be fine,” Jarrod replies, “That is all I could ask of you.”
As he moves to the doorway, “Good luck,” A.J. calls out to him.
“Thank you,” Jarrod replies, “We will be needing it.”
“Yes,” A.J nodding his head says, “I’d say you sure will.”
Over at Artie’s, “I’ll pass the word along,” he informs Ray, “And good luck.”
“Thank you,” Ray replies, “And right now we’ll be needing all the luck we can get to pull this off but it is long overdue.”
“It is indeed,” Artie says, “But you could count on me to do my part. I will pass the word along.”
“See you later,” Ray tells him.
“See you later,” Artie replies.
As Jarrod and Ray meet up at the end of the pier, “Well?” Jarrod asks of Ray who replies, “He’s going to do it; how about A.J?”
“He’s going to pass the word along too,” Jarrod answers, “Now let’s get back and work on step number 2.”
“Right,” Ray replies, “Getting the 4 establishments opened for business.”
“Exactly,” Jarrod says.
As they begin riding together heading away from the pier, “Boy,” Ray exclaims, “If we could pull all this off we really are beyond ourselves.”
“True,” Jarrod replies, “And as long as everything runs smoothly and no one makes any careless mistakes we should get through all this.”
As Nick is going down a wooded stretch with Davy and Chad, “It’s down this way,” Davy announces.
“Lead the way,” Nick instructs them.
Continuing on he is led through a profuse growth of trees, tall grass and bushes before coming up to a two story concrete structure that happens to be due south of the direction they came there in, “This is it,” Davy announces.
“Could I ask,” Nick says, “How is it you managed to find this place?”
“It’s quiet right now,” Chad notes.
“However” Davy adds, “The music we heard is what drew us down this direction.”
“If it wasn’t for the music,” Chad mentions, “We may not have came down this way at all.”
“I could see why,” Nick states as he looks back.
“And that,” Chad notes, “Is how they draw in their vulnerable clients.”
Reaching the entrance to the building “When we first came” Chad mentions “There was a man standing up there” referring to the top deck “Who went inside to alert the others about us coming.”
“The music,” Davy states, “Is what helped draw Austin, Sam, Chris and Oscar down this way too.”
“Which was in our favor” Chad replies “At the time.”
Dismounting, “Thank goodness for that,” Nick then asks, “Where is he now?”
“If he’s still with the others,” Davy mentions, “He is downstairs in the cellar.”
“And they all should still be” Chad notes “Somehow I can’t imagine themselves being freed not unless someone came by and unlocked it.”
“Which” Davy says, “Is highly unlikely.”
“We’ll find out soon enough,” Nick then insists, “Let’s go in.”
Going up the stairs and cautiously moving towards the front entrance, “Still quiet,” Davy comments as they walk in.
“Good,” Nick responds, “Let’s keep it that way.”
Doing a quick examination of the room Nick notices it being spaciously well lit by overhead lights, a circular table in the center of the room with a deck of cards on top, to the left he sees a flight of stairs and to his right a bar that runs the length of the room and then as he looks over on the other side of the bar another door “Is that where you have them?” he wanted to know.
“That is where we put them,” Davy notes, “And seeing the door is still closed I believe they are right where we left them.”
“Do you want to go see them?” Chad asks.
“Not yet,” Nick answers, “Let’s have a look around first; once we finish then we could go and deal with them.”
Going over to the bar Nick moves around it and studies it closely. Under the counter top were two rows of shelves, each one filled with various bottles of liquor. Under the shelves the center section of the bar was empty, consisting of a wooden panel. To the right and left, though there were cabinets with closed doors. Opening each one he finds they had forks, spoons, knives, plates, glasses and cups.
As he rested his elbows on the counter he sighed.
“Something wrong?” Davy asks.
“Not sure,” Nick answers.
Straightening up he stares back at the bar again. The two cabinets extended a good two and a half feet from the front allowing ample space for whatever was being stored inside.
Nick crouched down and tapped his knuckles of his right hand against the center of the wooden panel.
“Are you looking for something specific?” Chad asks.
“No” Nick answers, “Just checking this out thoroughly.”
Running his fingers around the edges of the panel he keeps searching for a hidden latch or a knob or grooves. Nothing!
“If you’re looking,” Davy asks, “To see if this has one of those levers to one of those movable floors it doesn’t. I checked.”
As Nick looks over at the stairwell “Would you like to go and check upstairs and see what’s up there?” Chad inquires “We never did get a chance to go up there when we were here the first time.”
“You were just reading my thoughts, Chad” Nick responds “Come on” and carefully leading the way Nick begins ascending the steps with both Chad and Davy staying very closely behind.
Walking one behind the other Nick, Chad and Davy all head up to the second floor.
Reaching the top of the landing they catch sight of five doors, all closed and fronted by a narrow hallway. Moving quietly to the first door, Nick twists the knob and pushes it open, catching sight of it being empty with the exception of the furniture it has inside-a bed, a nightstand with a lantern, a water pitcher on top, a chest and a closet for clothing.
Going down the hall to the second room, this time it’s Davy who grabs the knob and upon opening it reveals the same, another room with the typical furniture inside however this one had discarded clothing strewn in random fashion.
Arriving at the third room, Chad is there opening the door to the room and once again it is the same as the others. However, this one had a shade and window that was drawn and closed.
“I wonder,” Davy brings up, “Who occupied them?”
“One” Chad says “Could always use their imagination and anything is possible.”
“Let’s keep going,” Nick insists and they continue on.
Moving down to the next room they catch sight of a bathroom equipped with a porcelain tub, a vanity, a table that has a pitcher for water, a mirror on the wall and a bucket besides that.
Beyond the bathroom is another door that appears to be the final room however they come to find out it leads to a small hallway that first has a door which takes them out to the top deck and then as they look further they see what appears to be a trap door situated in the center of the ceiling “Must be” Davy mentions “How the man who was watching us made his move.”
“Want to see where it leads?” Chad asks.
“I do,” Nick answers, “Yes.”
Grabbing a step ladder Chad quickly places it underneath the trap door and as Nick is the first to climb up and go out he finds himself on the rooftop. Following his lead Chad and Davy both do what he does and once they are outside they notice that the roof happens to be flat and rather square in shape like the building itself with a foot-high lip that runs around the edge of the roof providing amble coverage.
“Well,” Nick says, “I’ll be.”
As he looks down he could see the dirt roadway that leads to both Pine and Freemont Streets. Then looking further they catch sight of a small barn.
Then upon stretching their necks further they could see how the roof makes a great view of the ocean, “Hey look,” Davy announces.
“I see it,” Nick says.
“It sure would,” Chad notes, “Help if we had one of those pairs of field glasses or that periscope you had.”
“Yes,” Nick comments, “It would.”
“It also explains,” Davy says, “How they could tell when ships are coming in and when it’s time to move or deliver their merchandise.”
“It does indeed,” Nick remarks.
“This could also,” Davy states, “Make a great advantage spot.”
“Once again,” Nick says, “Just what I was thinking” as he is taking a very interested look at it, “And I think this building definitely has possibilities.”
“You mean,” Chad asks, “In way of operating it?”
Nodding his head, “Yes,” Nick replies, “Just as we could use the hidden shack as our headquarters to arm ourselves on Saturday night we could get this building opened for business sort of speak and while waiting we could also use this as our headquarters as well.”
“Are you thinking of running it yourself?” Davy asks.
“I am,” Nick says.
“Would you like our help?” Chad offers.
“I would indeed,” Nick admits.
“If you are looking for more volunteers,” Davy says, “You may want to ask Sam, Austin, Oscar and Chris. We already had a discussion with them about it and are very much interested.”
“I just may do that,” Nick responds, “Come on, let’s go deal with them downstairs and then quickly head back and discuss the details with the others of what we plan on doing.”
Part 436
As they exit the rooftop Nick makes a quick trip to the bathroom and upon grabbing a couple of towels he, Davy and Chad go back down the stairs to the first floor. Going outside they retrieve the sacks of sandwiches and two canteens.
“When we go inside,” Nick insists, “Make sure we are watching our every move.”
“You don’t have to tell us that twice,” Davy retorts.
Going back inside they quickly head to the bar and upon Nick grabbing the set of keys he, Davy and Chad draw their guns.
“Chad here” Nick says and as Chad takes the sandwiches and towels from him “We’ll cover you” then glancing over at Davy Nick asks, “Ready Davy?”
“Ready,” Davy answers.
As Nick is placing the key inside the hole they could hear on the other side of the door, “Hello?” from a voice, “Is somebody there?” from another voice.
“There is,” Nick barks, “Stand back! Stand back!” as he begins opening the door.
As the door is opening, “You again,” comes from Bert as he glances over at Chad and Davy standing there.
“We’ve returned,” Chad informs them.
“You managed to free yourselves” Davy brings up realizing their hands are no longer tied.
“Are you going to let us out?” one of them asks.
“Not quite,” Chad responds.
“Not exactly; at least not yet” Nick commands “Now I want all of you to step back down several feet and place your hands up and out where we could see them and don’t move!”
Not knowing what to make of them the men each exchange glances before doing as instructed and as they move back down the stairs and place their hands up in the air they watch as Nick and Davy keep their guns on them and Chad is placing a towel on the top step and then after depositing the sandwiches onto them he places the two canteens next to them on the step.
“This should hold you” Nick then informs them “For a little bit. We will be back! Enjoy!”
As Nick is closing the door, “Hey wait,” he hears from one of the men but continues and after relocking it places the set of keys back on the hook where he got them and then he says to Davy and Chad, “Let’s go,” who quickly exit the building with him.
4/13/2013
Back at the Dentons
Meeting up with Kyle out in the yard, “Did they see them?” Neil asks.
“They did,” Kyle answers.
“Where are Gene and Billy?” Todd wanted to know.
“They went to go inform their mothers they are back,” Kyle replies, “Where are the girls and Noah?”
“Scattered,” Todd answers.
“Showing the newcomers around,” Neil says.
“Are we still going through with it?” Todd asks.
“We are,” Kyle states, “When they finish showing the newcomers around tell them we have to have a conference. Have them go to Jarrod’s pond.”
“Are you,” Neil wanted to know, “Going to let Billy and Gene in on what we are doing?”
“No, at least not yet” Kyle answers, “If we tell them, they may be blabber mouths and we can’t afford anything to go wrong with our plan. We already had to let them in on our secret stash and look at what happened” quickly walking away.
Returning to the ranch and upon entering the barn Nick calls out, “Jarrod!”
“Nick!” Jarrod in unison says.
“How’d’you make out,” Nick asks, “With A.J and Artie?”
“They’ve both been informed,” Jarrod notes, “And will do their best with passing the information along.”
Replying “Good,” Nick says, “I guess we can’t ask for anything else.”
“It is a lot,” Jarrod replies, “Even for them so whatever help they could give us will still be helpful.”
“True,” Nick says.
“What about you?” Jarrod asks, “Did you manage to give the sandwiches to those men?”
“Of course I did,” Nick answers, “And not only that but I found Alfredo’s to definitely have some possibilities.”
“In what way?” Jarrod asks.
“How about if I show you what I mean,” Nick says.
“You mean go down there?” Jarrod asks.
“That is exactly what I mean” Nick says “Sometimes Jarrod” shaking his head “You can be so naïve; you can be pathetic. Come on!”
While saddling up two horses “And while we’re at it” Nick continues “How about if we stop by the other three buildings as well?”
“Good thinking,” Jarrod says.
After finishing and mounting up “Oh” Nick brings up “Anything from the marshal or Warren yet?”
“No,” Jarrod replies, “But then again it might still be a little early yet.”
“That could be” Nick then says “But boy if Heath’s plan works and the marshal and Warren are able to get here we could move those men from Alfredo’s.”
“Not to mention,” Jarrod brings up, “Those running the Parker House.”
As they start riding out “Yes” Nick replies.
“We still have to think of how it will all work out yet,” Jarrod notes, “How are we going to transport the men from the train car to the ranch?”
“That was my question,” Nick brings up.
“I know,” Jarrod replies, “But I figured to bring it up again when it’s just us.”
“Well,” Nick says, “Once we get word that the marshal and Warren are coming we have to then figure out just how many they will be bringing up to there.”
“How many,” Jarrod inquires, “Are there down at Alfredo’s?”
“I counted eleven,” as they begin riding Nick then says.
“And that doesn’t include,” Jarrod points out, “Who we will be removing from the Parker House and anybody else we add to it by the time they arrive.”
“True” Nick says “But as you said let’s take it one thing at a time; once they say yes we could take it from there.”
“Agreed,” Jarrod then brings up, “Heath sure does bring up some good ideas.”
“Yes, he does” Nick answers, “Oh, let’s make a quick stop to the shack for a moment.”
“What for?” Jarrod asks.
“To grab a couple pairs of field glasses,” Nick says.
“What do we need them for?” Jarrod wanted to know.
“I’ll show you,” Nick says.
Echo Lake-at the Lakeside Hotel
Receiving the room from the desk clerk a young man roughly 16 years of age with dark brown hair parted on the side slightly goes up the stairs and searches for the room number he is looking for. Once he finds it, he knocks at the door and upon hearing, “Yes,” from the other side says, “Marshal Sawyer? My name is Gregory; I am here from the telegraph office. I bring you a wire that just arrived.”
“Be right there,” he answers and quickly coming to the door.
“Hello Marshal,” Gregory reiterates.
“Good evening Gregory,” the marshall replies, “You have a wire for me?”
Showing him a piece of paper, “I do,” Gregory says, “Right here,” as he hands it to him, “This just came in, I was asked to bring it to you immediately, it says urgent on it.”
Taking it from him, “Thank you,” the marshal tells him and upon handing him a dollar the messenger boy Gregory reciprocates. After bidding the messenger boy a good day the marshal immediately begins reading the wire that came and realizes it is from the Barkleys down in San Francisco.
“Marshal Sawyer…Your presence is needed urgently…See if you could bring Warren with you…Will explain when you get here…Please come as quickly as you could…Jarrod Barkley!”
After folding it up and placing it in his pocket he grabs his hat and quickly exits the room and goes down the stairs and out the door of the hotel.
San Francisco
Arriving at the shack “I’ll be right out” Nick tells Jarrod and upon quickly dismounting Nick runs inside grabs the two pairs of field glasses and comes back out. Mounting back up “Let’s go” Nick then says and once again leads the way out of there.
Echo Lake-at the Sheriff’s office
Walking in, “Good evening Vinnie,” Marshal Sawyer says.
“Frank,” Sheriff Vince Howard responds, “What could I do for you?”
“I came to first see Warren,” Marshal Sawyer mentions.
“And the second,” Vince asks.
“I am going to need you to release him back into my custody,” Sawyer says.
“Could I ask why?” Vinnie inquires.
“Just got this wire” Marshal Sawyer shows him, “From San Francisco. The Barkleys have asked us to come there.”
Reading it over, “Must be important,” Vinnie states, “Says urgent.”
“Yes,” The marshal says, “So if you won’t mind. Would you please?”
“Sure thing,” Vinnie replies and grabbing the set of keys to the back jail cell he and the marshal go there.
As the sheriff is moving to the back cell with Frank, Warren hearing the commotion quickly gets up off his bunk and walking over to the locked door, “Frank, Sheriff?” he says.
“Hi Warren” the marshal replies.
“What’s going on?” Warren asks.
“I just received this telegram,” the marshal informs him.
“What’s it say?” Warren asks, “Who’s it from?”
“Jarrod Barkley,” Marshal Sawyer informs him.
“Is something wrong?” Warren asks concerned, “Is it Heath?”
“Doesn’t say,” Frank mentions, “It says urgent,” showing him the wire.
Reading it aloud, “Marshal Sawyer,” Warren says, “Your presence is needed urgently. See if you could bring Warren with you. Will explain when you get here. Please come as quickly as you could. Jarrod Barkley!” turning to Sawyer, “It doesn’t mention Heath at all.”
“No it doesn’t,” Frank notes, “But they went down to San Francisco because their mother was in trouble.”
“Yes,” Warren mentions, “But then again it doesn’t mention that either.”
“No,” Frank says, “Unless they were just in a hurry when he wrote that out.”
“Jarrod Barkley,” Warren brings up, “Doesn’t strike me as doing something without thinking it through no matter what it is he is doing.”
“True,” Frank mentions, “But it does say they want us to come to them and as quickly as we could.”
“And urgently,” Warren says, “But whatever it is they wouldn’t just be wiring you to come there unless it was something truly important.”
“That is what I think” Frank brings up “And if it had something to do with Heath or their mother, I mean it could still be but if it was or is I think they would’ve mentioned either her or him by name.”
“Agreed,” Warren replies, “And they didn’t.”
“Right,” Frank says, “So once I find out the best way to get down to San Francisco from here would you be interested in finding out what it’s all about?”
“I am,” Warren asks, “But will it be alright seeing I am supposed to be staying in here?”
“It is,” Frank says, “I am here and right now I do have the authority to get you out of there and Heath means as much to you as he does to me.”
“Yes he does,” Warren replies.
“I also know that you could be trusted” then turning to the sheriff he asks “Do you have a problem with that Vinnie?”
“No,” Sheriff Howard replies, “As you just stated you do have the authority to do so and I too believe that he could be trusted and from my meeting the Barkleys they seem like decent, honest people.”
“They are a very respectable family,” Frank notes, “Jarrod Barkley is a prominent lawyer and as for the rest of the family they are very well respected throughout their community. I’ll be back.”
As Frank is about to exit the back jail cell, “I may have a suggestion,” Sheriff Howard offers.
“What’s that?” Frank asks.
“I saw Mr. Drucker” Sheriff Howard brings up “He’s the stagecoach driver that drove the Barkley brothers to Gold Run.”
“Yes,” Frank replies, “I remember him a little.”
“He may be of some use to you,” Sheriff Howard notes, “Maybe he could supply you with when the next and nearest train connection is coming in.”
“That’s a thought,” Frank says, “Do you know where he’s staying?”
“He is staying,” Sheriff Howard brings up, “At the El Dorado hotel. Don’t know what room he is in however.”
“I’ll get it,” Frank says, “Be back,” and quickly he goes out the door with Vinnie following right behind him watching as he goes down the street to the El Dorado hotel.
San Francisco
As they are coming up on Pine Street and are going down a wooded stretch, “Are you sure it’s here?” Jarrod asks, “I don’t make it.”
‘Oh it’s here,” Nick retorts, “Wait til you see it.”
“Very well,” Jarrod replies, “Lead the way,” while becoming somewhat skeptical as he is being led through the profuse growth of trees, tall grass and bushes.
Echo Lake-El Dorado Hotel
Getting the room number from the desk clerk Marshal Sawyer goes up the stairs to the second level and going down the hallway he finds the number he wants and quickly knocks at the door.
“Yes,” he hears from the other side of the door.
“Mr. Drucker,” Marshal Sawyer goes on to say, “You don’t know me but I am Marshal Sawyer I would like to talk with you for a moment if I could?”
“Hold on,” Mr. Drucker replies and quickly coming to the door and opening it, “Yes,” he then says to him.
“I believe you drive the stagecoach,” Marshal Sawyer mentions, “And you drove the Barkleys to Gold Run to meet with the connecting train a short time ago.”
“I did,” Mr. Drucker notes.
“I am not looking for you to drive me anywhere,” Marshal Sawyer says, “But I was wondering would you happen to know where the best way to grab the next train coming in and what time it’s scheduled to arrive?”
“Where are you planning on going?” Mr. Drucker asks.
“San Francisco,” Marshal Sawyer answers.
“There is one that leaves out of Truckee, Nevada,” Mr. Drucker notes, “If you are able to get there by 11:30 or so you may be in luck to get on it. And if you do make it the train should arrive in San Francisco I believe at 11:35 am tomorrow.”
“How long would it take to get there?” Frank asks.
“If you ride,” Mr. Drucker notes, “It’s approximately 20 miles from here. If you go there you could probably be there within an hour and a half maybe little longer depending on how long you stop in between.”
“Let’s see” looking at his watch “It’s going on seven” Frank says “If we borrow a couple horses and head out we should be there maybe around 9 or so depending.”
“That should be about right,” Mr. Drucker notes, “Do you need directions of how to get there? Or would you prefer I drive you there?”
“I’ll be back,” Frank says, “And let you know. Thank you for your assistance.”
“No problem,” Mr. Drucker replies and quickly Frank exits the hotel and heads back to the jail.
Part 437
San Francisco
As Nick and Jarrod are traveling through the wooded stretch and upon coming up to the two story structure, “This is it,” Nick mentions.
Looking at it, “I don’t believe it,” Jarrod replies.
“Told you so,” Nick replies.
“I would never have known,” Jarrod says, “I would definitely have missed it.”
“That is what is so fascinating about this place Jarrod,” Nick mentions, “And if it weren’t for Davy or Chad coming down this way to begin with and hearing the music they heard none of us would have known anything about it at all either.”
“I could see why,” Jarrod replies.
“Fortunately for them and us” Nick adds “They had the advantage of having Austin and Sam, Chris and Oscar being drawn down this way as well from hearing the music which managed to lead them down this way too and just think of this as a crawl on in its web.”
“A crawl on?” Jarrod mimics.
“Yes” Nick replies “Think of this as some crawl on in its web waiting for some helpless creature or victim to come down this way and splat” rubbing his palms together “Or zap” snapping his fingers together “Caught or snatched however you want to phrase it, which indeed makes a great advantage for us at the moment.”
Dismounting “Here” Nick grabbing the two pairs of field glasses and handing one to Jarrod says “Come with me.”
Walking up the steps Nick and Jarrod enter the main room of the building and upon carefully examining it from the doorway, “Nice,” Jarrod comments.
“If you think this is nice,” Nick states, “Wait til you see something more.”
“What more?” Jarrod asks.
“Once again,” Nick says, “I’ll show you. Come with me.”
With his sideway grin “Lead the way” Jarrod replies and upon crossing to the stairwell “Oh” Jarrod inquires “Where are…?” looking around.
Pointing, “Down there,” Nick replies to Jarrod who following his direction notices the closed door on the other side of the bar.
Going up to the second level Jarrod sees the five doors. Leading the way, “This way,” Nick says who walks down the hallway to the fifth door and upon opening it introduces the trapped door in the ceiling. Quickly grabbing the step ladder and after placing it underneath, “Care to go first,” Nick offers.
Climbing up and as he finds himself on the rooftop “Well, I’ll be” Jarrod says.
Joining him, “What do you think?” Nick then asks standing along beside him.
“Very interesting” Jarrod replies.
“Now try out the field glasses,” Nick insists.
Doing so, “I could see the city,” Jarrod mentions.
“Not only that” Nick quips “But also the ocean as well.”
“I could see,” Jarrod brings up, “Why you consider this a great advantage point.”
“Very much so,” Nick notes, “And not only that but I’ve decided to be the one to get this opened for business.”
“You” Jarrod inquires “Do you mean in way of running it?”
“That is exactly what I mean” Nick replies “I plan on opening it and running it until Saturday night; along with Chad and Davy who both already agreed to assist me.”
“Why you?” Jarrod asks.
“First,” Nick replies, “It’s my decision and second I am the first one outside of Chad and Davy to discover it. We could use this building to monitor what is going on at the pier and once we see the ship come in we could begin making our move. We could also use this saloon as well as the shack as our headquarters where we make all our preparations.”
“You do bring up some good ideas,” Jarrod says.
“Thank you,” Nick replies, “And once again, once we finish with what we are to do here we could leave everything else for the governor to deal with.”
“Most definitely,” Jarrod says, “Come on; let’s go check out the other three buildings and head back to get ready for tonight.”
“Agreed,” Nick replies and quickly they exit the roof and go back down to the main room where they came in from.
Echo Lake-Jail
Returning to the jail and after going to the back cell with the sheriff “Did you find anything out?” Warren asks.
“Yes” Frank replies “If we are able to get ourselves to Truckee we could pick up the train there and from what I managed to get out of Mr. Drucker he said it leaves there at 11:30 pm, we could be on it and on our way to San Francisco. Would you know how to get there?”
“I do,” Warren replies, “It should take us about an hour and a half to get there.”
“That is what Mr. Drucker said,” Frank notes.
“How are we going to get there?” Warren inquires.
“We could borrow two horses from the livery” Frank brings up “Do you need to pack anything to take with us?”
“If you won’t mind my stopping by my ranch,” Warren says, “I could grab a jacket and a couple other items and then we could be on our way.”
“No problem with that” Frank replies “Vinnie” turning to the sheriff “Would you mind?”
Taking out the keys the sheriff releases Warren from his cell and after they exit the back room area, “Good luck with what you are doing,” he tells them.
“Thank you,” Frank replies, “We’ll keep you advised on what is going on and when we’ll be back.”
“I’d appreciate that,” Sheriff Howard answers.
Stockton
Telegraph office
Receiving the telegram, “Jamie,” The clerk quickly calls out.
Coming over to him, “Yes Father” Jamie replies.
“Here,” handing the wire to him, “Take this to the Barkleys,” he tells him.
Replying “Right away” Jamie quickly takes it from him, places it in a safe place inside his saddlebag then mounts up and quickly heads out to the Barkley Ranch.
San Francisco-Alfredo’s Saloon
Before they leave Nick looks back at the bar, “What you thinking about?” Jarrod asks, “The men?”
“Not really,” Nick replies, “I was just thinking just how well this room is going to make a great advantage point. No one can walk in and jump us or do anything because as far as I could see this is the only entrance to this room and if we have this building well-guarded; well monitored no one can try anything without any of us knowing about it which is another reason I chose to run it myself.”
“Good thinking” Jarrod says “You’ll know at all times who is coming in or going out or is coming up the road or down the road etc.”
“Exactly,” Nick replies, “You may be slow at times, but you definitely make progress.”
“You think I am slow?” Jarrod questions.
“At times you could be” Nick states “It’s nothing to get defensive or hostile about. I think it just has something to do with your lawyer thinking mind. You see with Heath I’ve come to learn that he may be the quiet one but he is also the thinker of the family. And you,” placing his hand on his shoulder, “You have to analyze every little detail before you come out with an answer. Sometimes I think you’ve been in the court room way too long.”
“Well,” Jarrod quips, “If Heath is the thinker of the family and I am the analyzer of the family then that must make you the loud one of the family.”
“I may be the loud one of the family,” Nick debates, “But I’m also the doer. I make things happen or if I see something I go straight for it.”
“There’s no denying that,” Jarrod says.
Playfully slapping Jarrod gently on the arm “Let’s get going” Nick adds “It’s going to be dark soon” and with that they both head out the door and once they’ve mounted up they head out towards the Missionary.
Echo Lake
After exiting the jail, Frank and Warren make a quick stop to the telegraph office sending a wire down to San Francisco letting them know that they are on their way and then going down to the livery they borrow two horses and then from there Frank makes a quick run inside the hotel to retrieve a bag with a couple items he decided to pack and then they head to Warren’s home.
San Francisco
Back at the Ranch the children are all congregated outside Jarrod’s train overseeing the lake.
“Are we really still going through with it?” Melanie asks of Kyle who answers, “We are.”
“But,” Sarah asks, “Why?”
Kyle answers, “We have to.”
“But,” Sue Ann replies, “They’ve already agreed to help us out.”
“I know,” Kyle says, “And that’s just it. They could still help us out and they could still have access to all of our hidden supplies but they just don’t know much about what they are getting themselves into. They do have some knowledge but we know more. And they can’t very well do it alone, they need us. We already know what we have to do.”
“So,” Todd asks, “How do you want us to do this?”
“Everything is planned for Saturday night,” Kyle says, “But up until then we will assist the Barkleys and the Dentons with running those businesses. We will separate and some of you will be runners, watching and relaying any and all information you see that becomes available.”
“You don’t want to include,” Melanie suggests, “The others?”
“I think,” Sarah says, “If we include Gene and Audra not to mention Diane and Billy we would have more of us to run and relay the information that does come available.”
“I agree,” Sue Ann replies.
“But they don’t know the area,” Todd brings up, “Like we do.”
“Diane and Billy do,” Melanie says, “And we could use their help.”
“I agree,” Sarah replies.
“Very well,” Kyle says, “We’ll include them. Before we start splitting up how about one of you go get them?”
“I will,” Kimmy offers.
“Go ahead,” Kyle says, “We’ll wait here.”
And while Kimmy goes off to bring back the others, “I just hope this isn’t or won’t be a mistake,” Kyle mumbles.
“It won’t,” Melanie assures him, “We could use them.”
5/13/2013
Echo Lake-Warren’s Home
Arriving at Warren’s home they pull up to the green house that has the paint chipping and wearing away around the windows and eaves. Bringing the horses to a complete stop and as they dismount, “You may be pleased to know,” Frank says as they head up the steps, “That I managed to fix and pick up as much as I can from what was ransacked.”
“I would like to thank you for that,” Warren informs him, “I just can’t believe they were out here looking for a ring. I had no idea about any of that.”
“Yes I know,” Frank says, “Heath definitely knew more about it than you could possibly ever have imagined.”
“Heath,” Warren replies, “Is definitely a godsend.”
“He’s a very good man,” Frank notes, “With how his life has turned out I am glad that he managed to find a family that loves him and a home where he belongs.”
“Yes,” Warren states, “He truly deserves it. He had so much hardships in his life he doesn’t need anymore and he deserves having happiness and a better life than he had.”
“Agreed,” Frank says.
Entering the front door they arrive in the kitchen. Everything that was emptied out has been picked up and placed where it goes and all the counters now have the doors closed.
Walking through the living room, once again all cushions have been put back where they belong and all other items are now back on their tables or desk where they came from.
As they head for one of the bedrooms they come by the smallest room that has the desk, bookshelf and the portrait on the wall. Noticing Frank looking at it, “You like it?” Warren asks.
“I do,” Frank admits.
Pointing to the boy in the center “This is Heath,” Warren mentions.
“Yes I know,” Frank says, “I like how you had him included here.”
“He became like one of the family” Warren notes “For the time he was with us I thought it was appropriate to have him in the portrait when we decided to have it done. If things turned out differently I would’ve kept him with me.”
“I believe you would’ve,” Frank says.
As Warren continues staring at the portrait “Something wrong” Frank asks “What you thinking about?”
“I don’t know,” Warren admits, “This portrait was done less than 5 years ago, its hard to believe life changed that much and yet it hasn’t been all that long ago. I also feel bad for Heath; when I brought him home to his mother I just left him without even saying what was happening or me saying goodbye to him.”
“Bringing him home,” Frank says, “Was the right thing to do, you’re leaving him without saying goodbye wasn’t the best thing you could’ve done however that is by gone and I am sure Heath has forgiven you for that by now.”
Nodding his head, “He has,” Warren admits, “But it still haunts me.”
“It probably will,” Frank notes, “But you know if you didn’t bring him home when you did and if you kept him with you, you could very well have placed his life in jeopardy with yours if you did get caught.”
“I know that,” Warren replies, “That is why I did what I did, I didn’t want his life to be in danger with mine.”
“As it has been said before,” Frank brings up, “You can’t change the past and if you did keep him with you and he went with you out east I may never have had an opportunity to meet him either so therefore how about you stop pondering on how things could’ve gone and get what you need. It is getting late and we do need to be going. We could always talk more on the way as well as on the train. We do have quite a ride ahead of us before we reach San Francisco.”
“That we do,” Warren says, “I will be just a few minutes.”
Walking away Warren quickly grabs his jacket and packs a few items he thinks he will be needing for the trip and returning “Okay” he announces “I am now ready.”
“Good,” Frank replies.
Before they head out “Oh” looking at the picture on the wall “Do you think Heath would like to have this?” Warren wanted to know.
“I am sure he would,” Frank says.
“When we return,” Warren says, “Maybe you could do me a favor and find someone who could make another copy of this so that he could have one.”
“I will,” Frank vows and then as they finally walk away they go out the door and after Warren gets his items situated on the back of the saddle they mount up and begin heading out.
Part 438
Stockton
Barkley Ranch
Arriving at the Barkleys and dismounting Jamie quickly takes the wire out of his saddlebag and proceeds up the walk; upon knocking at the door he is greeted by Jean Sempleworth.
“Hello Ma’am,” Jamie says, “I have this telegram here for Mrs. Barkley.”
“Carol,” Jean calls out to her who comes into the room from the study.
“Yes Jean?” Carol asks.
“Jamie here,” Jean says, “Has a wire for you.”
“A wire,” Carol replies.
“Yes Ma’am,” Jamie reiterates, “Said urgently.”
“Thank you” Carol replies and after handing him a dollar for coming by he in turn thanks her and after exchanging goodbyes she closes the door and as she is looking at it, “Who’s it from?” Jean asks.
“Jim” Carol informs her and as she reads it “Says…urgent…need you here…Will explain once you arrive…Bring Maureen and Linda with you…Hurry…Time is of the essence.”
“Wonder,” Jean says, “What that is all about?”
“Not sure,” Carol replies, “But he does say hurry.”
“And,” Jean adds, “Time is of the essence.”
“Yes,” Carol then asks, “Would you be alright here with all the children?”
“I’ll be fine,” Jean says.
Carol then calls out, “Maureen, Linda, Tina?”
Responding, “Yes,” Maureen answers coming from the study while both Linda and Tina come from the upstairs asking, “What is it?”
“I got this here telegram,” Carol mentions.
“What’s it say?” Maureen asks with Tina asking, “Where’s it from?”
Handing the telegram off to Maureen, “San Francisco,” Carol replies.
“That’s where Father,” Tina notes, “And the rest of the family are.”
“Yes,” Carol mentions, “They need us to come there. We need to get ready.”
“All of us?” Linda asks.
“It says,” Maureen reiterates, “Mother, you and me.”
“It doesn’t say me,” Tina mentions as she reads it over Maureen’s shoulder.
“No, it doesn’t,” Carol then says, “Tina, while I’m gone I need you to help Jean and Silas with the children.”
“How long will you be gone for?” Tina asks.
“Not sure” Carol answers “I first need to find out what this is all about.”
“It does say urgent,” Maureen replies as she continues reading the telegram she has in her hand.
“When is the next train due in?” Linda asks.
“Not certain,” Carol replies.
“Want me to go get Duke,” Tina asks, “Maybe he’ll know.”
“Yes,” Carol says, “Please and make it fast.”
Replying “Right away,” Tina quickly goes out the door while Maureen, Linda and Carol head up the stairs to start packing.
San Francisco
As Jarrod and Nick are heading down Mission Street they catch side of the Parker House and as they get closer they dismount and start watching the activity from the doorway.
Inside they could see people at the bar either in idle talk or drinking. From the doorway they notice the back counter and wonder if it has a lever that drops the stools from the floor, not saying anything they continue to observe the various activities such as: at one table a man whispering sweet nothings into one of the ladies ears and while she is holding a glass lets out a little smile and giggle, at another table a young woman is placing a drink before another young man who is with others in the midst of a card game.
As Nick glances about the room he could see a couple of the ladies dancing wildly and heartily with several of the male patrons and Jarrod as he glances about the room he notices a man dressed in a fancy suit, smoking a cigar while talking with another woman who just happens to have red hair; he also observes her now moving towards the bar, “We better,” he suggests, “Not intrude on them just yet.”
“I quite agree” Nick replies as he continues watching the comings and goings inside the building “We will wait until we hear from the marshal and then you could work with the police commissioner and the governor of how you want to clear this out.”
“Me?” Jarrod asks.
“I will be too busy” Nick says “Running Alfredo’s; I can’t possibly be in two places at once.”
Snickering “Of course not” Jarrod replies “Let’s go inside the Missionary and then quickly get back to the house. We do have to hurry up and get these ready for business.”
“Agreed,” Nick says and as they go around the back they quietly dismount and walk inside the back door.
6/10/13
The Missionary
As Nick and Jarrod move up to the back of the building they quietly dismount and then proceed to the back door and upon opening it and cautiously looking inside “Looks like nobody’s here” Nick announces.
“Well, I hope not,” Jarrod retorts, “If somebody is in here we are in big trouble.”
Continuing on they quickly find a lantern and after turning it on they find that they are now in the kitchen area. Not seeing anybody around they cross to the doorway and upon entering the second room they turn on the chandelier they see above their heads and looking about they notice that they are standing in the main room of the building which has a table in the center with a deck of cards, dishes and glasses half-full on top, to the left a bar which runs the full-length of the room with ten stools in front and a stairwell to their right.
“Looks almost like Alfredo’s,” Nick points out.
“I think most saloons and boarding houses have similar features,” Jarrod notes.
Moving to the bar “Here is something that the Missionary has” Nick says “That Alfredo’s doesn’t” and reaching for the lever he pulls on it and as they both watch in amazement they see how the floor opens up and swallows the bar stool and upon it clanking as it reaches the bottom “I could definitely say” Jarrod quips “This one definitely does.”
“Definitely,” Nick states with certainty.
“Do you want to go down stairs,” Jarrod asks.
Shrugging, “Mine as well,” Nick replies, “If we are going to be getting this opened for business we do need to know everything about this place.”
Nodding his head, “Agreed,” Jarrod says, “And I believe I saw the door to the downstairs off the kitchen.”
“Let’s go,” Nick replies and going back into the kitchen Jarrod grabs the door knob and upon opening it he and Nick descend to the lower level.
Going down the stairs they catch sight of the now unlocked room that is wide opened and upon noticing the sole mattress in the center of the floor they also notice the stool where it landed on its side right below the ceiling’s floor.
Glancing about they also notice the broken window which was used for their mother’s as well as the 5 prisoners escape.
“To who ever decides to run this” Nick says “They better keep close watch of that upstairs there.”
“We’ll be sure to inform everyone” Jarrod notes “So they do know. Let’s go upstairs” and quickly going back out of the room they go up the stairs to the top level to find the set of doors which leads to the various rooms down the long hallway.
Once again turning on a light “Five doors,” Nick mumbles “Must mean five rooms.”
“Talk about being brilliant,” Jarrod remarks and as they head down the hallway they each take a look at the various rooms behind the closed doors.
They notice how they are each furnished but also messy, in the last one they notice it has just the dirty mattress on the floor but nothing else.
“Let’s go over to the Wards’ House” Jarrod insists “And then head back to the house so we could quickly make plans and find out what the others came up with.”
“Now, you’re talking” Nick says as they quickly exit the last room, go down the stairs and back out the door the way they came in.
Going across the road they make a quick run inside to find it takes them to the back of the building. Turning on a light they start looking about.
Not saying anything they immediately notice the unturned tables and knocked over barrels, blood splattered in various places that occurred from the fight that led to the murder and the bodies that were strewn outside. After looking in the back office they immediately descend down the stairs to the cellar to see what kind of cell they have there.
“All cleared,” Nick states.
Going back up the stairs and entering the front room they see a counter running the length of the room, a stairwell next to that, a far room next to that and a row of tables in the center.
Finding it empty, “Come on,” Jarrod says, “Let’s get back now and quickly make plans of who is doing what.”
“Right,” Nick replies.
Going back out the door but before exiting the building Nick starts turning the light off but then changes his mind and as he puts it back on, “What you do that for?” Jarrod asks curiously.
“Getting it ready for business,” Nick mentions, “Let’s leave them on. In case someone should come by they may like to know we are opened for business.”
Smiling, “Great minds think alike,” Jarrod quips, “Just what I was thinking. We better hurry up and get back here before someone does come by wanting to know about the business being opened and no one here to run it.”
“I’m surprised,” Nick brings up, “No one has come by thus far and wondered that question already. It’s been a whole day since it’s been without anyone.”
“They may have,” Jarrod says, “But let’s just hope it’s a slow time or those who come here come by late.”
Nodding his head, “Agreed,” Nick replies and quickly without saying another word they go outside and after mounting their horses Nick and Jarrod head back down the street and head for the house.
Stockton
Coming in the door with Duke, “Mother,” Tina announces, “Duke’s here.”
Replying “Oh good” Carol stops packing and quickly exits the room.
As she is coming down the stairs “Carol” Duke calls out.
“Sorry to bother you so late Duke,” Carol says.
“Don’t worry about it,” Duke then brings up, “Tina said you got a wire from Jim and he wants you to come down to San Francisco.”
Handing him the telegram, “Yes,” Carol then asks, “Would you happen to know what time the next train is due in?”
After reading the wire, “I believe there is one,” Duke notes, “Due in at 8:25 this evening.”
“8:25?” Carol then says, “That is just an hour from now.”
“It is” Duke replies “Want me to get a buggy hitched up?”
“If you won’t mind,” Carol says.
“Not at all,” Duke replies.
“Thank you,” Carol tells him.
Replying “Don’t mention it,” Duke quickly heads out the door.
“Mother,” Tina then says.
“Yes Tina,” Carol replies.
“If you’re not back by Saturday” Tina asks “What am I to do about my date with Ron?”
“I would appreciate it if you” Carol replies “Stayed at the ranch until I got back. See if he’s willing to do something around here and postpone your going into town until a later time.”
Disappointedly, “Okay,” Tina says, “I’ll go talk to him.”
“Go ahead dear,” Carol replies, “But make it quick.”
Going out the door Tina heads for the bunkhouse while Carol goes back up the stairs and resumes packing.
In the back yard
As Diane, Billy, Audra and Gene come with Kimmy she says, “Here they are.”
Kyle replies “Oh good!”
“You wanted us?” Audra asks.
“Yes,” Kyle answers, “We could use your help.”
“Our help?” comes from Audra and “With what?” coming from Diane.
“I’m getting to that” Kyle says “You two” looking over at Diane and Billy “Know the area.”
“We do,” Billy admits.
“You want to help your family out” Kyle asks “Right?”
“Of course we do,” Diane asks sternly, “What is it you want our help with?”
Repeating “I’m getting there” Kyle turns and says to Gene and Audra “You two also want to help your family out, don’t you?””
“Of course we do,” Audra answers with Gene replying, “That’s a silly question.”
“Okay then” Kyle then goes on to say “This is what this meeting is all about. Both your families are getting ready for a battle when the Grizzly Bear pulls in on Saturday night.”
“They are,” Gene acknowledges with Audra answering, “That much we do know.”
“I am here to tell you that” Kyle goes on to say “As much as your families do have good intentions of what they are planning on doing I must tell you that they really don’t have any idea of what they are facing.”
“Yes they do,” Gene argues.
“You don’t know our family,” Audra goes on to say, “Like we do.”
“Maybe not” Kyle admits “And I am sure they do have some knowledge of what they are about to take on but I need to tell you that by my living here I know more about what is at stake and what will be happening than they do.”
“What do you mean?” Audra asks.
“Just what I said,” Kyle resumes, “And if you truly want to help your family with succeeding and surviving then I strongly suggest and recommend that you listen to what I am about to say and I also urge the four of you to work with us so that they could achieve their goal.”
“With what?” Billy asks.
“How do we do that?” Gene inquires.
“We know the area” Kyle reiterates “What we want for you to do is work with us and learn all there is to know about the pier, the wharfs, the businesses, everything from the pier to the route leading to those businesses and also the different kinds of people you will be running into, who you could trust and who you can’t, you need to learn what a crimp looks like; you also need to know how to decipher what a watcher is and how to be aware of them without them knowing it.”
“What do you want us to do?” Audra asks.
“First,” Kyle brings up, “I don’t want a repeat of what occurred with either of you blabbing to your family about what we are about to take on. If you do, you will be putting their lives in jeopardy and you certainly don’t want to do that.”
“Of course not” comes from Audra and “We promise we won’t say anything to anyone” comes from Gene.
“The same goes for you two,” Kyle says looking over at Billy and Diane.
“We promise,” Billy replies.
“What is it we are about to do?” Diane asks.
“In the morning” Kyle brings up “We will separate. Billy, you’ll be with me, Gene you’ll be with Todd, Audra you’ll be with Sarah and Diane you will be with Sue Ann. We are going to show you every thing you will need to know about Pier 9. You’re going to be acting as mediators and informants. We will be showing you who could be trustworthy and those who could very well pose a threat and how to run interference, by you coming with us we will also show you our hide outs and how it will benefit you when it’s time to. Agreed?” as he looks to each of them they simultaneously answer, “Agreed.”
tbc
As everyone gets up and heads back in the direction they came Nick grabs hold of Gene’s arm and pulling him aside, “Gene,” he says, “I want to apologize to you.”
“For what?” Gene asks.
“For a lot,” Nick says, “I know I’ve been very hard on you for a very long time but I do want you to know that I am truly grateful for what you told us about this place and I am sorry for not trying to listen to you. When we finish here and get back to the ranch, somehow I want us to work on clearing the air. I want us to get to know each other as brothers.”
Smiling, “I’d like that,” Gene replies.
“So would I,” Nick then says, “Come on,” and quickly going to catch up with the others they first make a stop at the shack to return the periscope and then reaching their horses they all mount up and as they exit the wooded area they begin going their separate ways.
Jarrod and Ray head down to the pier to go see A.J. and Artie, Nick goes with Chad and Davy to Alfredo’s and the governor and Mr. Benton escort the boys back to Jarrod’s.
3/28/13
Reaching the end of the pier Jarrod and Ray go their separate ways.
While Jarrod dismounts and goes inside A.J’s Café, Ray goes down the way to Artie’s Pharmacy and upon dismounting he goes inside.
After walking in and being greeted they patiently wait until all the customers leave and while waiting graciously accept a drink.
Once they are finally alone, “So,” Artie says, “What brings you down this way?”
“Need a favor from you,” Ray says.
“Another one?” Artie asks, “Does this have anything to do with Mrs. Barkley?”
“No, no, not this time” Ray replies “She has been found and is back home safe and sound.”
“That’s good news,” Artie says, “Sure glad she was found.”
Nodding, “Same here,” Ray replies, “However there is another reason I came.”
“Oh?” Artie says.
Ray then goes on to fill him in on about what is going to be happening on Saturday night. Meanwhile back at A.J’s Café, once the last of the customers depart A.J. begins talking with Jarrod and after learning Mrs. Barkley is back home safely and out of the kidnappers clutches, “Thank goodness Jarrod,” he tells him, “That is a relief to hear.”
“Thank you,” Jarrod replies, “A.J., I need a favor from you.”
“Another one?” A.J. says, “Tell me what it is and I’ll see what I could do with making good on it.”
Jarrod then goes to fill him in on what they plan on doing Saturday night. After hearing all the details A.J clearing his throat informs him, “That is one tall order.”
“Yes, it is,” Jarrod acknowledges, “Which is why I’m coming to you to assist us with passing the word along to those you see to have it cleared for the one night. Right now, Ray Denton is doing the same with Artie.”
“How about,” A.J. says, “If I tell you that I will do my best.”
“That will be fine,” Jarrod replies, “That is all I could ask of you.”
As he moves to the doorway, “Good luck,” A.J. calls out to him.
“Thank you,” Jarrod replies, “We will be needing it.”
“Yes,” A.J nodding his head says, “I’d say you sure will.”
Over at Artie’s, “I’ll pass the word along,” he informs Ray, “And good luck.”
“Thank you,” Ray replies, “And right now we’ll be needing all the luck we can get to pull this off but it is long overdue.”
“It is indeed,” Artie says, “But you could count on me to do my part. I will pass the word along.”
“See you later,” Ray tells him.
“See you later,” Artie replies.
As Jarrod and Ray meet up at the end of the pier, “Well?” Jarrod asks of Ray who replies, “He’s going to do it; how about A.J?”
“He’s going to pass the word along too,” Jarrod answers, “Now let’s get back and work on step number 2.”
“Right,” Ray replies, “Getting the 4 establishments opened for business.”
“Exactly,” Jarrod says.
As they begin riding together heading away from the pier, “Boy,” Ray exclaims, “If we could pull all this off we really are beyond ourselves.”
“True,” Jarrod replies, “And as long as everything runs smoothly and no one makes any careless mistakes we should get through all this.”
As Nick is going down a wooded stretch with Davy and Chad, “It’s down this way,” Davy announces.
“Lead the way,” Nick instructs them.
Continuing on he is led through a profuse growth of trees, tall grass and bushes before coming up to a two story concrete structure that happens to be due south of the direction they came there in, “This is it,” Davy announces.
“Could I ask,” Nick says, “How is it you managed to find this place?”
“It’s quiet right now,” Chad notes.
“However” Davy adds, “The music we heard is what drew us down this direction.”
“If it wasn’t for the music,” Chad mentions, “We may not have came down this way at all.”
“I could see why,” Nick states as he looks back.
“And that,” Chad notes, “Is how they draw in their vulnerable clients.”
Reaching the entrance to the building “When we first came” Chad mentions “There was a man standing up there” referring to the top deck “Who went inside to alert the others about us coming.”
“The music,” Davy states, “Is what helped draw Austin, Sam, Chris and Oscar down this way too.”
“Which was in our favor” Chad replies “At the time.”
Dismounting, “Thank goodness for that,” Nick then asks, “Where is he now?”
“If he’s still with the others,” Davy mentions, “He is downstairs in the cellar.”
“And they all should still be” Chad notes “Somehow I can’t imagine themselves being freed not unless someone came by and unlocked it.”
“Which” Davy says, “Is highly unlikely.”
“We’ll find out soon enough,” Nick then insists, “Let’s go in.”
Going up the stairs and cautiously moving towards the front entrance, “Still quiet,” Davy comments as they walk in.
“Good,” Nick responds, “Let’s keep it that way.”
Doing a quick examination of the room Nick notices it being spaciously well lit by overhead lights, a circular table in the center of the room with a deck of cards on top, to the left he sees a flight of stairs and to his right a bar that runs the length of the room and then as he looks over on the other side of the bar another door “Is that where you have them?” he wanted to know.
“That is where we put them,” Davy notes, “And seeing the door is still closed I believe they are right where we left them.”
“Do you want to go see them?” Chad asks.
“Not yet,” Nick answers, “Let’s have a look around first; once we finish then we could go and deal with them.”
Going over to the bar Nick moves around it and studies it closely. Under the counter top were two rows of shelves, each one filled with various bottles of liquor. Under the shelves the center section of the bar was empty, consisting of a wooden panel. To the right and left, though there were cabinets with closed doors. Opening each one he finds they had forks, spoons, knives, plates, glasses and cups.
As he rested his elbows on the counter he sighed.
“Something wrong?” Davy asks.
“Not sure,” Nick answers.
Straightening up he stares back at the bar again. The two cabinets extended a good two and a half feet from the front allowing ample space for whatever was being stored inside.
Nick crouched down and tapped his knuckles of his right hand against the center of the wooden panel.
“Are you looking for something specific?” Chad asks.
“No” Nick answers, “Just checking this out thoroughly.”
Running his fingers around the edges of the panel he keeps searching for a hidden latch or a knob or grooves. Nothing!
“If you’re looking,” Davy asks, “To see if this has one of those levers to one of those movable floors it doesn’t. I checked.”
As Nick looks over at the stairwell “Would you like to go and check upstairs and see what’s up there?” Chad inquires “We never did get a chance to go up there when we were here the first time.”
“You were just reading my thoughts, Chad” Nick responds “Come on” and carefully leading the way Nick begins ascending the steps with both Chad and Davy staying very closely behind.
Walking one behind the other Nick, Chad and Davy all head up to the second floor.
Reaching the top of the landing they catch sight of five doors, all closed and fronted by a narrow hallway. Moving quietly to the first door, Nick twists the knob and pushes it open, catching sight of it being empty with the exception of the furniture it has inside-a bed, a nightstand with a lantern, a water pitcher on top, a chest and a closet for clothing.
Going down the hall to the second room, this time it’s Davy who grabs the knob and upon opening it reveals the same, another room with the typical furniture inside however this one had discarded clothing strewn in random fashion.
Arriving at the third room, Chad is there opening the door to the room and once again it is the same as the others. However, this one had a shade and window that was drawn and closed.
“I wonder,” Davy brings up, “Who occupied them?”
“One” Chad says “Could always use their imagination and anything is possible.”
“Let’s keep going,” Nick insists and they continue on.
Moving down to the next room they catch sight of a bathroom equipped with a porcelain tub, a vanity, a table that has a pitcher for water, a mirror on the wall and a bucket besides that.
Beyond the bathroom is another door that appears to be the final room however they come to find out it leads to a small hallway that first has a door which takes them out to the top deck and then as they look further they see what appears to be a trap door situated in the center of the ceiling “Must be” Davy mentions “How the man who was watching us made his move.”
“Want to see where it leads?” Chad asks.
“I do,” Nick answers, “Yes.”
Grabbing a step ladder Chad quickly places it underneath the trap door and as Nick is the first to climb up and go out he finds himself on the rooftop. Following his lead Chad and Davy both do what he does and once they are outside they notice that the roof happens to be flat and rather square in shape like the building itself with a foot-high lip that runs around the edge of the roof providing amble coverage.
“Well,” Nick says, “I’ll be.”
As he looks down he could see the dirt roadway that leads to both Pine and Freemont Streets. Then looking further they catch sight of a small barn.
Then upon stretching their necks further they could see how the roof makes a great view of the ocean, “Hey look,” Davy announces.
“I see it,” Nick says.
“It sure would,” Chad notes, “Help if we had one of those pairs of field glasses or that periscope you had.”
“Yes,” Nick comments, “It would.”
“It also explains,” Davy says, “How they could tell when ships are coming in and when it’s time to move or deliver their merchandise.”
“It does indeed,” Nick remarks.
“This could also,” Davy states, “Make a great advantage spot.”
“Once again,” Nick says, “Just what I was thinking” as he is taking a very interested look at it, “And I think this building definitely has possibilities.”
“You mean,” Chad asks, “In way of operating it?”
Nodding his head, “Yes,” Nick replies, “Just as we could use the hidden shack as our headquarters to arm ourselves on Saturday night we could get this building opened for business sort of speak and while waiting we could also use this as our headquarters as well.”
“Are you thinking of running it yourself?” Davy asks.
“I am,” Nick says.
“Would you like our help?” Chad offers.
“I would indeed,” Nick admits.
“If you are looking for more volunteers,” Davy says, “You may want to ask Sam, Austin, Oscar and Chris. We already had a discussion with them about it and are very much interested.”
“I just may do that,” Nick responds, “Come on, let’s go deal with them downstairs and then quickly head back and discuss the details with the others of what we plan on doing.”
Part 436
As they exit the rooftop Nick makes a quick trip to the bathroom and upon grabbing a couple of towels he, Davy and Chad go back down the stairs to the first floor. Going outside they retrieve the sacks of sandwiches and two canteens.
“When we go inside,” Nick insists, “Make sure we are watching our every move.”
“You don’t have to tell us that twice,” Davy retorts.
Going back inside they quickly head to the bar and upon Nick grabbing the set of keys he, Davy and Chad draw their guns.
“Chad here” Nick says and as Chad takes the sandwiches and towels from him “We’ll cover you” then glancing over at Davy Nick asks, “Ready Davy?”
“Ready,” Davy answers.
As Nick is placing the key inside the hole they could hear on the other side of the door, “Hello?” from a voice, “Is somebody there?” from another voice.
“There is,” Nick barks, “Stand back! Stand back!” as he begins opening the door.
As the door is opening, “You again,” comes from Bert as he glances over at Chad and Davy standing there.
“We’ve returned,” Chad informs them.
“You managed to free yourselves” Davy brings up realizing their hands are no longer tied.
“Are you going to let us out?” one of them asks.
“Not quite,” Chad responds.
“Not exactly; at least not yet” Nick commands “Now I want all of you to step back down several feet and place your hands up and out where we could see them and don’t move!”
Not knowing what to make of them the men each exchange glances before doing as instructed and as they move back down the stairs and place their hands up in the air they watch as Nick and Davy keep their guns on them and Chad is placing a towel on the top step and then after depositing the sandwiches onto them he places the two canteens next to them on the step.
“This should hold you” Nick then informs them “For a little bit. We will be back! Enjoy!”
As Nick is closing the door, “Hey wait,” he hears from one of the men but continues and after relocking it places the set of keys back on the hook where he got them and then he says to Davy and Chad, “Let’s go,” who quickly exit the building with him.
4/13/2013
Back at the Dentons
Meeting up with Kyle out in the yard, “Did they see them?” Neil asks.
“They did,” Kyle answers.
“Where are Gene and Billy?” Todd wanted to know.
“They went to go inform their mothers they are back,” Kyle replies, “Where are the girls and Noah?”
“Scattered,” Todd answers.
“Showing the newcomers around,” Neil says.
“Are we still going through with it?” Todd asks.
“We are,” Kyle states, “When they finish showing the newcomers around tell them we have to have a conference. Have them go to Jarrod’s pond.”
“Are you,” Neil wanted to know, “Going to let Billy and Gene in on what we are doing?”
“No, at least not yet” Kyle answers, “If we tell them, they may be blabber mouths and we can’t afford anything to go wrong with our plan. We already had to let them in on our secret stash and look at what happened” quickly walking away.
Returning to the ranch and upon entering the barn Nick calls out, “Jarrod!”
“Nick!” Jarrod in unison says.
“How’d’you make out,” Nick asks, “With A.J and Artie?”
“They’ve both been informed,” Jarrod notes, “And will do their best with passing the information along.”
Replying “Good,” Nick says, “I guess we can’t ask for anything else.”
“It is a lot,” Jarrod replies, “Even for them so whatever help they could give us will still be helpful.”
“True,” Nick says.
“What about you?” Jarrod asks, “Did you manage to give the sandwiches to those men?”
“Of course I did,” Nick answers, “And not only that but I found Alfredo’s to definitely have some possibilities.”
“In what way?” Jarrod asks.
“How about if I show you what I mean,” Nick says.
“You mean go down there?” Jarrod asks.
“That is exactly what I mean” Nick says “Sometimes Jarrod” shaking his head “You can be so naïve; you can be pathetic. Come on!”
While saddling up two horses “And while we’re at it” Nick continues “How about if we stop by the other three buildings as well?”
“Good thinking,” Jarrod says.
After finishing and mounting up “Oh” Nick brings up “Anything from the marshal or Warren yet?”
“No,” Jarrod replies, “But then again it might still be a little early yet.”
“That could be” Nick then says “But boy if Heath’s plan works and the marshal and Warren are able to get here we could move those men from Alfredo’s.”
“Not to mention,” Jarrod brings up, “Those running the Parker House.”
As they start riding out “Yes” Nick replies.
“We still have to think of how it will all work out yet,” Jarrod notes, “How are we going to transport the men from the train car to the ranch?”
“That was my question,” Nick brings up.
“I know,” Jarrod replies, “But I figured to bring it up again when it’s just us.”
“Well,” Nick says, “Once we get word that the marshal and Warren are coming we have to then figure out just how many they will be bringing up to there.”
“How many,” Jarrod inquires, “Are there down at Alfredo’s?”
“I counted eleven,” as they begin riding Nick then says.
“And that doesn’t include,” Jarrod points out, “Who we will be removing from the Parker House and anybody else we add to it by the time they arrive.”
“True” Nick says “But as you said let’s take it one thing at a time; once they say yes we could take it from there.”
“Agreed,” Jarrod then brings up, “Heath sure does bring up some good ideas.”
“Yes, he does” Nick answers, “Oh, let’s make a quick stop to the shack for a moment.”
“What for?” Jarrod asks.
“To grab a couple pairs of field glasses,” Nick says.
“What do we need them for?” Jarrod wanted to know.
“I’ll show you,” Nick says.
Echo Lake-at the Lakeside Hotel
Receiving the room from the desk clerk a young man roughly 16 years of age with dark brown hair parted on the side slightly goes up the stairs and searches for the room number he is looking for. Once he finds it, he knocks at the door and upon hearing, “Yes,” from the other side says, “Marshal Sawyer? My name is Gregory; I am here from the telegraph office. I bring you a wire that just arrived.”
“Be right there,” he answers and quickly coming to the door.
“Hello Marshal,” Gregory reiterates.
“Good evening Gregory,” the marshall replies, “You have a wire for me?”
Showing him a piece of paper, “I do,” Gregory says, “Right here,” as he hands it to him, “This just came in, I was asked to bring it to you immediately, it says urgent on it.”
Taking it from him, “Thank you,” the marshal tells him and upon handing him a dollar the messenger boy Gregory reciprocates. After bidding the messenger boy a good day the marshal immediately begins reading the wire that came and realizes it is from the Barkleys down in San Francisco.
“Marshal Sawyer…Your presence is needed urgently…See if you could bring Warren with you…Will explain when you get here…Please come as quickly as you could…Jarrod Barkley!”
After folding it up and placing it in his pocket he grabs his hat and quickly exits the room and goes down the stairs and out the door of the hotel.
San Francisco
Arriving at the shack “I’ll be right out” Nick tells Jarrod and upon quickly dismounting Nick runs inside grabs the two pairs of field glasses and comes back out. Mounting back up “Let’s go” Nick then says and once again leads the way out of there.
Echo Lake-at the Sheriff’s office
Walking in, “Good evening Vinnie,” Marshal Sawyer says.
“Frank,” Sheriff Vince Howard responds, “What could I do for you?”
“I came to first see Warren,” Marshal Sawyer mentions.
“And the second,” Vince asks.
“I am going to need you to release him back into my custody,” Sawyer says.
“Could I ask why?” Vinnie inquires.
“Just got this wire” Marshal Sawyer shows him, “From San Francisco. The Barkleys have asked us to come there.”
Reading it over, “Must be important,” Vinnie states, “Says urgent.”
“Yes,” The marshal says, “So if you won’t mind. Would you please?”
“Sure thing,” Vinnie replies and grabbing the set of keys to the back jail cell he and the marshal go there.
As the sheriff is moving to the back cell with Frank, Warren hearing the commotion quickly gets up off his bunk and walking over to the locked door, “Frank, Sheriff?” he says.
“Hi Warren” the marshal replies.
“What’s going on?” Warren asks.
“I just received this telegram,” the marshal informs him.
“What’s it say?” Warren asks, “Who’s it from?”
“Jarrod Barkley,” Marshal Sawyer informs him.
“Is something wrong?” Warren asks concerned, “Is it Heath?”
“Doesn’t say,” Frank mentions, “It says urgent,” showing him the wire.
Reading it aloud, “Marshal Sawyer,” Warren says, “Your presence is needed urgently. See if you could bring Warren with you. Will explain when you get here. Please come as quickly as you could. Jarrod Barkley!” turning to Sawyer, “It doesn’t mention Heath at all.”
“No it doesn’t,” Frank notes, “But they went down to San Francisco because their mother was in trouble.”
“Yes,” Warren mentions, “But then again it doesn’t mention that either.”
“No,” Frank says, “Unless they were just in a hurry when he wrote that out.”
“Jarrod Barkley,” Warren brings up, “Doesn’t strike me as doing something without thinking it through no matter what it is he is doing.”
“True,” Frank mentions, “But it does say they want us to come to them and as quickly as we could.”
“And urgently,” Warren says, “But whatever it is they wouldn’t just be wiring you to come there unless it was something truly important.”
“That is what I think” Frank brings up “And if it had something to do with Heath or their mother, I mean it could still be but if it was or is I think they would’ve mentioned either her or him by name.”
“Agreed,” Warren replies, “And they didn’t.”
“Right,” Frank says, “So once I find out the best way to get down to San Francisco from here would you be interested in finding out what it’s all about?”
“I am,” Warren asks, “But will it be alright seeing I am supposed to be staying in here?”
“It is,” Frank says, “I am here and right now I do have the authority to get you out of there and Heath means as much to you as he does to me.”
“Yes he does,” Warren replies.
“I also know that you could be trusted” then turning to the sheriff he asks “Do you have a problem with that Vinnie?”
“No,” Sheriff Howard replies, “As you just stated you do have the authority to do so and I too believe that he could be trusted and from my meeting the Barkleys they seem like decent, honest people.”
“They are a very respectable family,” Frank notes, “Jarrod Barkley is a prominent lawyer and as for the rest of the family they are very well respected throughout their community. I’ll be back.”
As Frank is about to exit the back jail cell, “I may have a suggestion,” Sheriff Howard offers.
“What’s that?” Frank asks.
“I saw Mr. Drucker” Sheriff Howard brings up “He’s the stagecoach driver that drove the Barkley brothers to Gold Run.”
“Yes,” Frank replies, “I remember him a little.”
“He may be of some use to you,” Sheriff Howard notes, “Maybe he could supply you with when the next and nearest train connection is coming in.”
“That’s a thought,” Frank says, “Do you know where he’s staying?”
“He is staying,” Sheriff Howard brings up, “At the El Dorado hotel. Don’t know what room he is in however.”
“I’ll get it,” Frank says, “Be back,” and quickly he goes out the door with Vinnie following right behind him watching as he goes down the street to the El Dorado hotel.
San Francisco
As they are coming up on Pine Street and are going down a wooded stretch, “Are you sure it’s here?” Jarrod asks, “I don’t make it.”
‘Oh it’s here,” Nick retorts, “Wait til you see it.”
“Very well,” Jarrod replies, “Lead the way,” while becoming somewhat skeptical as he is being led through the profuse growth of trees, tall grass and bushes.
Echo Lake-El Dorado Hotel
Getting the room number from the desk clerk Marshal Sawyer goes up the stairs to the second level and going down the hallway he finds the number he wants and quickly knocks at the door.
“Yes,” he hears from the other side of the door.
“Mr. Drucker,” Marshal Sawyer goes on to say, “You don’t know me but I am Marshal Sawyer I would like to talk with you for a moment if I could?”
“Hold on,” Mr. Drucker replies and quickly coming to the door and opening it, “Yes,” he then says to him.
“I believe you drive the stagecoach,” Marshal Sawyer mentions, “And you drove the Barkleys to Gold Run to meet with the connecting train a short time ago.”
“I did,” Mr. Drucker notes.
“I am not looking for you to drive me anywhere,” Marshal Sawyer says, “But I was wondering would you happen to know where the best way to grab the next train coming in and what time it’s scheduled to arrive?”
“Where are you planning on going?” Mr. Drucker asks.
“San Francisco,” Marshal Sawyer answers.
“There is one that leaves out of Truckee, Nevada,” Mr. Drucker notes, “If you are able to get there by 11:30 or so you may be in luck to get on it. And if you do make it the train should arrive in San Francisco I believe at 11:35 am tomorrow.”
“How long would it take to get there?” Frank asks.
“If you ride,” Mr. Drucker notes, “It’s approximately 20 miles from here. If you go there you could probably be there within an hour and a half maybe little longer depending on how long you stop in between.”
“Let’s see” looking at his watch “It’s going on seven” Frank says “If we borrow a couple horses and head out we should be there maybe around 9 or so depending.”
“That should be about right,” Mr. Drucker notes, “Do you need directions of how to get there? Or would you prefer I drive you there?”
“I’ll be back,” Frank says, “And let you know. Thank you for your assistance.”
“No problem,” Mr. Drucker replies and quickly Frank exits the hotel and heads back to the jail.
Part 437
San Francisco
As Nick and Jarrod are traveling through the wooded stretch and upon coming up to the two story structure, “This is it,” Nick mentions.
Looking at it, “I don’t believe it,” Jarrod replies.
“Told you so,” Nick replies.
“I would never have known,” Jarrod says, “I would definitely have missed it.”
“That is what is so fascinating about this place Jarrod,” Nick mentions, “And if it weren’t for Davy or Chad coming down this way to begin with and hearing the music they heard none of us would have known anything about it at all either.”
“I could see why,” Jarrod replies.
“Fortunately for them and us” Nick adds “They had the advantage of having Austin and Sam, Chris and Oscar being drawn down this way as well from hearing the music which managed to lead them down this way too and just think of this as a crawl on in its web.”
“A crawl on?” Jarrod mimics.
“Yes” Nick replies “Think of this as some crawl on in its web waiting for some helpless creature or victim to come down this way and splat” rubbing his palms together “Or zap” snapping his fingers together “Caught or snatched however you want to phrase it, which indeed makes a great advantage for us at the moment.”
Dismounting “Here” Nick grabbing the two pairs of field glasses and handing one to Jarrod says “Come with me.”
Walking up the steps Nick and Jarrod enter the main room of the building and upon carefully examining it from the doorway, “Nice,” Jarrod comments.
“If you think this is nice,” Nick states, “Wait til you see something more.”
“What more?” Jarrod asks.
“Once again,” Nick says, “I’ll show you. Come with me.”
With his sideway grin “Lead the way” Jarrod replies and upon crossing to the stairwell “Oh” Jarrod inquires “Where are…?” looking around.
Pointing, “Down there,” Nick replies to Jarrod who following his direction notices the closed door on the other side of the bar.
Going up to the second level Jarrod sees the five doors. Leading the way, “This way,” Nick says who walks down the hallway to the fifth door and upon opening it introduces the trapped door in the ceiling. Quickly grabbing the step ladder and after placing it underneath, “Care to go first,” Nick offers.
Climbing up and as he finds himself on the rooftop “Well, I’ll be” Jarrod says.
Joining him, “What do you think?” Nick then asks standing along beside him.
“Very interesting” Jarrod replies.
“Now try out the field glasses,” Nick insists.
Doing so, “I could see the city,” Jarrod mentions.
“Not only that” Nick quips “But also the ocean as well.”
“I could see,” Jarrod brings up, “Why you consider this a great advantage point.”
“Very much so,” Nick notes, “And not only that but I’ve decided to be the one to get this opened for business.”
“You” Jarrod inquires “Do you mean in way of running it?”
“That is exactly what I mean” Nick replies “I plan on opening it and running it until Saturday night; along with Chad and Davy who both already agreed to assist me.”
“Why you?” Jarrod asks.
“First,” Nick replies, “It’s my decision and second I am the first one outside of Chad and Davy to discover it. We could use this building to monitor what is going on at the pier and once we see the ship come in we could begin making our move. We could also use this saloon as well as the shack as our headquarters where we make all our preparations.”
“You do bring up some good ideas,” Jarrod says.
“Thank you,” Nick replies, “And once again, once we finish with what we are to do here we could leave everything else for the governor to deal with.”
“Most definitely,” Jarrod says, “Come on; let’s go check out the other three buildings and head back to get ready for tonight.”
“Agreed,” Nick replies and quickly they exit the roof and go back down to the main room where they came in from.
Echo Lake-Jail
Returning to the jail and after going to the back cell with the sheriff “Did you find anything out?” Warren asks.
“Yes” Frank replies “If we are able to get ourselves to Truckee we could pick up the train there and from what I managed to get out of Mr. Drucker he said it leaves there at 11:30 pm, we could be on it and on our way to San Francisco. Would you know how to get there?”
“I do,” Warren replies, “It should take us about an hour and a half to get there.”
“That is what Mr. Drucker said,” Frank notes.
“How are we going to get there?” Warren inquires.
“We could borrow two horses from the livery” Frank brings up “Do you need to pack anything to take with us?”
“If you won’t mind my stopping by my ranch,” Warren says, “I could grab a jacket and a couple other items and then we could be on our way.”
“No problem with that” Frank replies “Vinnie” turning to the sheriff “Would you mind?”
Taking out the keys the sheriff releases Warren from his cell and after they exit the back room area, “Good luck with what you are doing,” he tells them.
“Thank you,” Frank replies, “We’ll keep you advised on what is going on and when we’ll be back.”
“I’d appreciate that,” Sheriff Howard answers.
Stockton
Telegraph office
Receiving the telegram, “Jamie,” The clerk quickly calls out.
Coming over to him, “Yes Father” Jamie replies.
“Here,” handing the wire to him, “Take this to the Barkleys,” he tells him.
Replying “Right away” Jamie quickly takes it from him, places it in a safe place inside his saddlebag then mounts up and quickly heads out to the Barkley Ranch.
San Francisco-Alfredo’s Saloon
Before they leave Nick looks back at the bar, “What you thinking about?” Jarrod asks, “The men?”
“Not really,” Nick replies, “I was just thinking just how well this room is going to make a great advantage point. No one can walk in and jump us or do anything because as far as I could see this is the only entrance to this room and if we have this building well-guarded; well monitored no one can try anything without any of us knowing about it which is another reason I chose to run it myself.”
“Good thinking” Jarrod says “You’ll know at all times who is coming in or going out or is coming up the road or down the road etc.”
“Exactly,” Nick replies, “You may be slow at times, but you definitely make progress.”
“You think I am slow?” Jarrod questions.
“At times you could be” Nick states “It’s nothing to get defensive or hostile about. I think it just has something to do with your lawyer thinking mind. You see with Heath I’ve come to learn that he may be the quiet one but he is also the thinker of the family. And you,” placing his hand on his shoulder, “You have to analyze every little detail before you come out with an answer. Sometimes I think you’ve been in the court room way too long.”
“Well,” Jarrod quips, “If Heath is the thinker of the family and I am the analyzer of the family then that must make you the loud one of the family.”
“I may be the loud one of the family,” Nick debates, “But I’m also the doer. I make things happen or if I see something I go straight for it.”
“There’s no denying that,” Jarrod says.
Playfully slapping Jarrod gently on the arm “Let’s get going” Nick adds “It’s going to be dark soon” and with that they both head out the door and once they’ve mounted up they head out towards the Missionary.
Echo Lake
After exiting the jail, Frank and Warren make a quick stop to the telegraph office sending a wire down to San Francisco letting them know that they are on their way and then going down to the livery they borrow two horses and then from there Frank makes a quick run inside the hotel to retrieve a bag with a couple items he decided to pack and then they head to Warren’s home.
San Francisco
Back at the Ranch the children are all congregated outside Jarrod’s train overseeing the lake.
“Are we really still going through with it?” Melanie asks of Kyle who answers, “We are.”
“But,” Sarah asks, “Why?”
Kyle answers, “We have to.”
“But,” Sue Ann replies, “They’ve already agreed to help us out.”
“I know,” Kyle says, “And that’s just it. They could still help us out and they could still have access to all of our hidden supplies but they just don’t know much about what they are getting themselves into. They do have some knowledge but we know more. And they can’t very well do it alone, they need us. We already know what we have to do.”
“So,” Todd asks, “How do you want us to do this?”
“Everything is planned for Saturday night,” Kyle says, “But up until then we will assist the Barkleys and the Dentons with running those businesses. We will separate and some of you will be runners, watching and relaying any and all information you see that becomes available.”
“You don’t want to include,” Melanie suggests, “The others?”
“I think,” Sarah says, “If we include Gene and Audra not to mention Diane and Billy we would have more of us to run and relay the information that does come available.”
“I agree,” Sue Ann replies.
“But they don’t know the area,” Todd brings up, “Like we do.”
“Diane and Billy do,” Melanie says, “And we could use their help.”
“I agree,” Sarah replies.
“Very well,” Kyle says, “We’ll include them. Before we start splitting up how about one of you go get them?”
“I will,” Kimmy offers.
“Go ahead,” Kyle says, “We’ll wait here.”
And while Kimmy goes off to bring back the others, “I just hope this isn’t or won’t be a mistake,” Kyle mumbles.
“It won’t,” Melanie assures him, “We could use them.”
5/13/2013
Echo Lake-Warren’s Home
Arriving at Warren’s home they pull up to the green house that has the paint chipping and wearing away around the windows and eaves. Bringing the horses to a complete stop and as they dismount, “You may be pleased to know,” Frank says as they head up the steps, “That I managed to fix and pick up as much as I can from what was ransacked.”
“I would like to thank you for that,” Warren informs him, “I just can’t believe they were out here looking for a ring. I had no idea about any of that.”
“Yes I know,” Frank says, “Heath definitely knew more about it than you could possibly ever have imagined.”
“Heath,” Warren replies, “Is definitely a godsend.”
“He’s a very good man,” Frank notes, “With how his life has turned out I am glad that he managed to find a family that loves him and a home where he belongs.”
“Yes,” Warren states, “He truly deserves it. He had so much hardships in his life he doesn’t need anymore and he deserves having happiness and a better life than he had.”
“Agreed,” Frank says.
Entering the front door they arrive in the kitchen. Everything that was emptied out has been picked up and placed where it goes and all the counters now have the doors closed.
Walking through the living room, once again all cushions have been put back where they belong and all other items are now back on their tables or desk where they came from.
As they head for one of the bedrooms they come by the smallest room that has the desk, bookshelf and the portrait on the wall. Noticing Frank looking at it, “You like it?” Warren asks.
“I do,” Frank admits.
Pointing to the boy in the center “This is Heath,” Warren mentions.
“Yes I know,” Frank says, “I like how you had him included here.”
“He became like one of the family” Warren notes “For the time he was with us I thought it was appropriate to have him in the portrait when we decided to have it done. If things turned out differently I would’ve kept him with me.”
“I believe you would’ve,” Frank says.
As Warren continues staring at the portrait “Something wrong” Frank asks “What you thinking about?”
“I don’t know,” Warren admits, “This portrait was done less than 5 years ago, its hard to believe life changed that much and yet it hasn’t been all that long ago. I also feel bad for Heath; when I brought him home to his mother I just left him without even saying what was happening or me saying goodbye to him.”
“Bringing him home,” Frank says, “Was the right thing to do, you’re leaving him without saying goodbye wasn’t the best thing you could’ve done however that is by gone and I am sure Heath has forgiven you for that by now.”
Nodding his head, “He has,” Warren admits, “But it still haunts me.”
“It probably will,” Frank notes, “But you know if you didn’t bring him home when you did and if you kept him with you, you could very well have placed his life in jeopardy with yours if you did get caught.”
“I know that,” Warren replies, “That is why I did what I did, I didn’t want his life to be in danger with mine.”
“As it has been said before,” Frank brings up, “You can’t change the past and if you did keep him with you and he went with you out east I may never have had an opportunity to meet him either so therefore how about you stop pondering on how things could’ve gone and get what you need. It is getting late and we do need to be going. We could always talk more on the way as well as on the train. We do have quite a ride ahead of us before we reach San Francisco.”
“That we do,” Warren says, “I will be just a few minutes.”
Walking away Warren quickly grabs his jacket and packs a few items he thinks he will be needing for the trip and returning “Okay” he announces “I am now ready.”
“Good,” Frank replies.
Before they head out “Oh” looking at the picture on the wall “Do you think Heath would like to have this?” Warren wanted to know.
“I am sure he would,” Frank says.
“When we return,” Warren says, “Maybe you could do me a favor and find someone who could make another copy of this so that he could have one.”
“I will,” Frank vows and then as they finally walk away they go out the door and after Warren gets his items situated on the back of the saddle they mount up and begin heading out.
Part 438
Stockton
Barkley Ranch
Arriving at the Barkleys and dismounting Jamie quickly takes the wire out of his saddlebag and proceeds up the walk; upon knocking at the door he is greeted by Jean Sempleworth.
“Hello Ma’am,” Jamie says, “I have this telegram here for Mrs. Barkley.”
“Carol,” Jean calls out to her who comes into the room from the study.
“Yes Jean?” Carol asks.
“Jamie here,” Jean says, “Has a wire for you.”
“A wire,” Carol replies.
“Yes Ma’am,” Jamie reiterates, “Said urgently.”
“Thank you” Carol replies and after handing him a dollar for coming by he in turn thanks her and after exchanging goodbyes she closes the door and as she is looking at it, “Who’s it from?” Jean asks.
“Jim” Carol informs her and as she reads it “Says…urgent…need you here…Will explain once you arrive…Bring Maureen and Linda with you…Hurry…Time is of the essence.”
“Wonder,” Jean says, “What that is all about?”
“Not sure,” Carol replies, “But he does say hurry.”
“And,” Jean adds, “Time is of the essence.”
“Yes,” Carol then asks, “Would you be alright here with all the children?”
“I’ll be fine,” Jean says.
Carol then calls out, “Maureen, Linda, Tina?”
Responding, “Yes,” Maureen answers coming from the study while both Linda and Tina come from the upstairs asking, “What is it?”
“I got this here telegram,” Carol mentions.
“What’s it say?” Maureen asks with Tina asking, “Where’s it from?”
Handing the telegram off to Maureen, “San Francisco,” Carol replies.
“That’s where Father,” Tina notes, “And the rest of the family are.”
“Yes,” Carol mentions, “They need us to come there. We need to get ready.”
“All of us?” Linda asks.
“It says,” Maureen reiterates, “Mother, you and me.”
“It doesn’t say me,” Tina mentions as she reads it over Maureen’s shoulder.
“No, it doesn’t,” Carol then says, “Tina, while I’m gone I need you to help Jean and Silas with the children.”
“How long will you be gone for?” Tina asks.
“Not sure” Carol answers “I first need to find out what this is all about.”
“It does say urgent,” Maureen replies as she continues reading the telegram she has in her hand.
“When is the next train due in?” Linda asks.
“Not certain,” Carol replies.
“Want me to go get Duke,” Tina asks, “Maybe he’ll know.”
“Yes,” Carol says, “Please and make it fast.”
Replying “Right away,” Tina quickly goes out the door while Maureen, Linda and Carol head up the stairs to start packing.
San Francisco
As Jarrod and Nick are heading down Mission Street they catch side of the Parker House and as they get closer they dismount and start watching the activity from the doorway.
Inside they could see people at the bar either in idle talk or drinking. From the doorway they notice the back counter and wonder if it has a lever that drops the stools from the floor, not saying anything they continue to observe the various activities such as: at one table a man whispering sweet nothings into one of the ladies ears and while she is holding a glass lets out a little smile and giggle, at another table a young woman is placing a drink before another young man who is with others in the midst of a card game.
As Nick glances about the room he could see a couple of the ladies dancing wildly and heartily with several of the male patrons and Jarrod as he glances about the room he notices a man dressed in a fancy suit, smoking a cigar while talking with another woman who just happens to have red hair; he also observes her now moving towards the bar, “We better,” he suggests, “Not intrude on them just yet.”
“I quite agree” Nick replies as he continues watching the comings and goings inside the building “We will wait until we hear from the marshal and then you could work with the police commissioner and the governor of how you want to clear this out.”
“Me?” Jarrod asks.
“I will be too busy” Nick says “Running Alfredo’s; I can’t possibly be in two places at once.”
Snickering “Of course not” Jarrod replies “Let’s go inside the Missionary and then quickly get back to the house. We do have to hurry up and get these ready for business.”
“Agreed,” Nick says and as they go around the back they quietly dismount and walk inside the back door.
6/10/13
The Missionary
As Nick and Jarrod move up to the back of the building they quietly dismount and then proceed to the back door and upon opening it and cautiously looking inside “Looks like nobody’s here” Nick announces.
“Well, I hope not,” Jarrod retorts, “If somebody is in here we are in big trouble.”
Continuing on they quickly find a lantern and after turning it on they find that they are now in the kitchen area. Not seeing anybody around they cross to the doorway and upon entering the second room they turn on the chandelier they see above their heads and looking about they notice that they are standing in the main room of the building which has a table in the center with a deck of cards, dishes and glasses half-full on top, to the left a bar which runs the full-length of the room with ten stools in front and a stairwell to their right.
“Looks almost like Alfredo’s,” Nick points out.
“I think most saloons and boarding houses have similar features,” Jarrod notes.
Moving to the bar “Here is something that the Missionary has” Nick says “That Alfredo’s doesn’t” and reaching for the lever he pulls on it and as they both watch in amazement they see how the floor opens up and swallows the bar stool and upon it clanking as it reaches the bottom “I could definitely say” Jarrod quips “This one definitely does.”
“Definitely,” Nick states with certainty.
“Do you want to go down stairs,” Jarrod asks.
Shrugging, “Mine as well,” Nick replies, “If we are going to be getting this opened for business we do need to know everything about this place.”
Nodding his head, “Agreed,” Jarrod says, “And I believe I saw the door to the downstairs off the kitchen.”
“Let’s go,” Nick replies and going back into the kitchen Jarrod grabs the door knob and upon opening it he and Nick descend to the lower level.
Going down the stairs they catch sight of the now unlocked room that is wide opened and upon noticing the sole mattress in the center of the floor they also notice the stool where it landed on its side right below the ceiling’s floor.
Glancing about they also notice the broken window which was used for their mother’s as well as the 5 prisoners escape.
“To who ever decides to run this” Nick says “They better keep close watch of that upstairs there.”
“We’ll be sure to inform everyone” Jarrod notes “So they do know. Let’s go upstairs” and quickly going back out of the room they go up the stairs to the top level to find the set of doors which leads to the various rooms down the long hallway.
Once again turning on a light “Five doors,” Nick mumbles “Must mean five rooms.”
“Talk about being brilliant,” Jarrod remarks and as they head down the hallway they each take a look at the various rooms behind the closed doors.
They notice how they are each furnished but also messy, in the last one they notice it has just the dirty mattress on the floor but nothing else.
“Let’s go over to the Wards’ House” Jarrod insists “And then head back to the house so we could quickly make plans and find out what the others came up with.”
“Now, you’re talking” Nick says as they quickly exit the last room, go down the stairs and back out the door the way they came in.
Going across the road they make a quick run inside to find it takes them to the back of the building. Turning on a light they start looking about.
Not saying anything they immediately notice the unturned tables and knocked over barrels, blood splattered in various places that occurred from the fight that led to the murder and the bodies that were strewn outside. After looking in the back office they immediately descend down the stairs to the cellar to see what kind of cell they have there.
“All cleared,” Nick states.
Going back up the stairs and entering the front room they see a counter running the length of the room, a stairwell next to that, a far room next to that and a row of tables in the center.
Finding it empty, “Come on,” Jarrod says, “Let’s get back now and quickly make plans of who is doing what.”
“Right,” Nick replies.
Going back out the door but before exiting the building Nick starts turning the light off but then changes his mind and as he puts it back on, “What you do that for?” Jarrod asks curiously.
“Getting it ready for business,” Nick mentions, “Let’s leave them on. In case someone should come by they may like to know we are opened for business.”
Smiling, “Great minds think alike,” Jarrod quips, “Just what I was thinking. We better hurry up and get back here before someone does come by wanting to know about the business being opened and no one here to run it.”
“I’m surprised,” Nick brings up, “No one has come by thus far and wondered that question already. It’s been a whole day since it’s been without anyone.”
“They may have,” Jarrod says, “But let’s just hope it’s a slow time or those who come here come by late.”
Nodding his head, “Agreed,” Nick replies and quickly without saying another word they go outside and after mounting their horses Nick and Jarrod head back down the street and head for the house.
Stockton
Coming in the door with Duke, “Mother,” Tina announces, “Duke’s here.”
Replying “Oh good” Carol stops packing and quickly exits the room.
As she is coming down the stairs “Carol” Duke calls out.
“Sorry to bother you so late Duke,” Carol says.
“Don’t worry about it,” Duke then brings up, “Tina said you got a wire from Jim and he wants you to come down to San Francisco.”
Handing him the telegram, “Yes,” Carol then asks, “Would you happen to know what time the next train is due in?”
After reading the wire, “I believe there is one,” Duke notes, “Due in at 8:25 this evening.”
“8:25?” Carol then says, “That is just an hour from now.”
“It is” Duke replies “Want me to get a buggy hitched up?”
“If you won’t mind,” Carol says.
“Not at all,” Duke replies.
“Thank you,” Carol tells him.
Replying “Don’t mention it,” Duke quickly heads out the door.
“Mother,” Tina then says.
“Yes Tina,” Carol replies.
“If you’re not back by Saturday” Tina asks “What am I to do about my date with Ron?”
“I would appreciate it if you” Carol replies “Stayed at the ranch until I got back. See if he’s willing to do something around here and postpone your going into town until a later time.”
Disappointedly, “Okay,” Tina says, “I’ll go talk to him.”
“Go ahead dear,” Carol replies, “But make it quick.”
Going out the door Tina heads for the bunkhouse while Carol goes back up the stairs and resumes packing.
In the back yard
As Diane, Billy, Audra and Gene come with Kimmy she says, “Here they are.”
Kyle replies “Oh good!”
“You wanted us?” Audra asks.
“Yes,” Kyle answers, “We could use your help.”
“Our help?” comes from Audra and “With what?” coming from Diane.
“I’m getting to that” Kyle says “You two” looking over at Diane and Billy “Know the area.”
“We do,” Billy admits.
“You want to help your family out” Kyle asks “Right?”
“Of course we do,” Diane asks sternly, “What is it you want our help with?”
Repeating “I’m getting there” Kyle turns and says to Gene and Audra “You two also want to help your family out, don’t you?””
“Of course we do,” Audra answers with Gene replying, “That’s a silly question.”
“Okay then” Kyle then goes on to say “This is what this meeting is all about. Both your families are getting ready for a battle when the Grizzly Bear pulls in on Saturday night.”
“They are,” Gene acknowledges with Audra answering, “That much we do know.”
“I am here to tell you that” Kyle goes on to say “As much as your families do have good intentions of what they are planning on doing I must tell you that they really don’t have any idea of what they are facing.”
“Yes they do,” Gene argues.
“You don’t know our family,” Audra goes on to say, “Like we do.”
“Maybe not” Kyle admits “And I am sure they do have some knowledge of what they are about to take on but I need to tell you that by my living here I know more about what is at stake and what will be happening than they do.”
“What do you mean?” Audra asks.
“Just what I said,” Kyle resumes, “And if you truly want to help your family with succeeding and surviving then I strongly suggest and recommend that you listen to what I am about to say and I also urge the four of you to work with us so that they could achieve their goal.”
“With what?” Billy asks.
“How do we do that?” Gene inquires.
“We know the area” Kyle reiterates “What we want for you to do is work with us and learn all there is to know about the pier, the wharfs, the businesses, everything from the pier to the route leading to those businesses and also the different kinds of people you will be running into, who you could trust and who you can’t, you need to learn what a crimp looks like; you also need to know how to decipher what a watcher is and how to be aware of them without them knowing it.”
“What do you want us to do?” Audra asks.
“First,” Kyle brings up, “I don’t want a repeat of what occurred with either of you blabbing to your family about what we are about to take on. If you do, you will be putting their lives in jeopardy and you certainly don’t want to do that.”
“Of course not” comes from Audra and “We promise we won’t say anything to anyone” comes from Gene.
“The same goes for you two,” Kyle says looking over at Billy and Diane.
“We promise,” Billy replies.
“What is it we are about to do?” Diane asks.
“In the morning” Kyle brings up “We will separate. Billy, you’ll be with me, Gene you’ll be with Todd, Audra you’ll be with Sarah and Diane you will be with Sue Ann. We are going to show you every thing you will need to know about Pier 9. You’re going to be acting as mediators and informants. We will be showing you who could be trustworthy and those who could very well pose a threat and how to run interference, by you coming with us we will also show you our hide outs and how it will benefit you when it’s time to. Agreed?” as he looks to each of them they simultaneously answer, “Agreed.”
tbc
