Post by sandymarek on Nov 13, 2013 7:13:35 GMT -4
Part 439
Stockton
Bunkhouse
Tina knocking at the front door is greeted by Ciego who asks, “You here to see Ron?”
“Yes,” she replies, “Is he here?”
“He is,” Ciego tells her, “Come on in. I’ll go get him for you.”
Replying “Thank you” Tina walks in while Ciego goes into the sleeping quarters to inform Ron who is engaged in a game of checkers with Bobby about Tina waiting to see him.
“Excuse me,” Ron says to Bobby who replies, “Certainly.”
Getting up and exiting the room Ron quickly goes to meet with Tina waiting patiently for him.
“Hi Tina,” Ron says.
“Sorry to bother you so late,” Tina mentions.
“It’s not late,” Ron replies.
“Maybe not,” Tina says.
“Want to go outside,” Ron offers.
“Sure,” Tina replies.
Upon going outside and walking around for a bit, “What is it?” Ron asks.
“I have to break our date for Saturday,” Tina informs him.
“Is it because of the wire that came,” Ron wanted to know.
“Yes” Tina admits “Mother has to go to San Francisco. She doesn’t want me leaving the ranch while she’s gone. She asked me to postpone our date until she gets back. I feel so bad about this. I really wanted us to go out.”
“Don’t be,” Ron says, “And I quite understand. Would it be alright if we did something around here?”
Smiling, “It would indeed,” Tina mentions.
“How about a picnic” Ron suggests.
“We could do that and I was hoping you would say that,” Tina says, “Maybe we could have it at either Jarrod’s meadow or at Jarrod’s pond.”
“Jarrod’s meadow sounds,” Ron notes, “Like an ideal place for us to have the picnic. What time would you like for us to meet?”
“How about,” Tina suggests, “Maybe around 11? It’ll give me time to do all of what I have to do around here.”
“Eleven it is then,” Ron says.
“I’ll see you on Saturday then,” Tina informs him, “If something changes I will let you know that too.”
“Very good,” Ron says and while Tina heads for the house Ron goes back inside the bunkhouse.
Returning to the back room Bobby asks, “What was that all about?”
“She told me we couldn’t go into town on Saturday,” Ron mentions.
“Is it because of the wire that came in?” Bobby asks.
“Yes,” Ron replies.
“I figured as much,” Bobby notes.
“We’ll still keep our date,” Ron mentions, “It’s just we’ll do a picnic and stay at the ranch instead.”
“Good idea,” Bobby comments.
“Would you like to join us?” Ron offers.
“How about,” Bobby says, “If I let you know?”
“Okay,” Ron replies.
Jarrod’s House
As Nick and Jarrod walk in the front door, “How’d’you make out?” Heath asks of them while lying on the sofa.
“We went to each of the saloons and boarding houses” Nick answers “As well as the hide out those children have” then glancing about “Speaking of which” he asks “Where is everybody?” seeing only Heath, Jim Jr and Ed in the room.
“Scattered,” Heath replies “Mother is over at the Dentons, the children are outside.”
“The governor and the police commissioner” Ed mentions “Will be back. They both went to work on who will be working with us. They said they will be back shortly.”
“Father” Jim Jr brings up “Went to let your mother know about the wire that just arrived.”
“Wire” Jarrod asks.
“Yes” Jim Jr replies, “From the marshal that you wired.”
“What did it say?” Jarrod asks eagerly.
“It said they’re on their way,” Jim Jr mentions, “And they will be here sometime tomorrow. Father has the time of when they will arrive.”
“So,” Nick says, “They are definitely coming.”
“Yes,” Jim Jr replies, “He actually received two wires.”
“Who was the second one from?” Jarrod asks.
“The rest of the family is coming,” Jim Jr answers.
“Mr. Jenkins,” Heath brings up, “Also received one.”
“From whom” Nick asks, “Did he say?”
“No,” Heath says.
“All he said was” Ed mentions “Help is coming.”
“Help” Jarrod asks.
“Yes” Ed replies “The wire he sent out I believe he is getting help to join us for Saturday. He didn’t say who exactly he wired to come but he did say help is on the way.”
“He then went out,” Heath adds, “To inform his men about who he has coming.”
“We better round everyone up,” Jarrod says.
“You go round everyone up,” Nick insists, “I have to talk to the men at the cabin. We have a lot of work ahead of us.”
“Like,” Heath asks, “Who will be running the businesses?”
“That,” Nick says, “And a few other things.”
“I made a list,” Heath notes.
“Very good,” Nick replies.
“We’ll go over it,” Jarrod says, “Just as soon as I find everybody. Be right back.”
“Want some help?” Ed offers.
“If you won’t mind,” Nick says, “Be back shortly.”
And with that Ed and Jim Jr get up and they along with Nick and Jarrod go to round everyone up. While Heath remains on the couch, Nick, Jarrod and Ed all go out the door while Jim Jr goes up the stairs.
7/16/13
Stockton
As Duke is bringing the hitched up buggy to the doorway Maureen and Linda have already gone out the door; Carol, with Jean, Tina and Chrissy in tow follow right behind them.
After the buggy has been brought to a complete stop Duke gets out and assists each of the ladies into their seats along with each of their suitcases. After Carol has been helped into her seat she says, “You’ll be alright while we’re gone?” to Jean, Tina and Chrissy standing there.
“Of course we will,” Jean notes.
“We’ll be fine,” Chrissy says.
“Give Ed my love,” Jean mentions.
“Good luck Mother,” Tina tells her.
“I’ll let you know what’s going on,” Carol says, “Once I find out.”
“I’d appreciate that,” Jean states.
Returning to the driver’s box Duke grabs hold of the reins and slowly moves out. As they continue moving away Jean, Tina and Chrissy are there waving to them until they are out of sight.
“Come on,” Jean then says to Tina and Chrissy who follow her back into the house.
8/2/13
Log Cabin
Going inside the log cabin Nick sees his men all engaged in something and upon looking further he notices John Jenkins talking with his men and in turn, upon hearing the door open notices him as he walks in.
After addressing each other by their names, “How’d it go?” John asks.
“Went well,” Nick admits.
“From talking to some of your men,” John mentions, “I gathered as much. They also mentioned that you will be operating one of the businesses tonight.”
“Yes,” Nick admits, “The one called Alfredo’s” then changing topics, “Speaking of which,” Nick says, “I understand you received a wire.”
“I did yes,” John informs him.
“From what I understand,” Nick adds, “You have some kind of help coming?”
Nodding his head, “I do yes,” John admits.
“If you don’t mind,” Nick asks, “Could you tell me who?”
“Not yet,” John says, “But I assure you we could use the help. Having just 75 of us is not enough to go out and deal with what is coming in.”
“That much I do know,” Nick replies.
“I can’t give you all the details yet,” John says, “But I will tell you they will be arriving on Saturday.”
Letting out a deep sigh, “I don’t know what to say,” Nick brings up.
“Don’t say anything,” John says, “Let’s just say we’re all in this together and I could assure you that you won’t be disappointed.”
Raising an eyebrow “Very well” Nick replies “Seeing that I am in somewhat of a hurry I will let it go at that for now.”
“Thank you,” John then brings up, “Oh, would you care for some more help?”
“I would yes” Nick says “But first let me take care of what I came in here to do and then we could head over to the house. Jarrod is rounding up the rest of the family so we could all know what we will be doing from now until Saturday night.”
“Sure thing,” John replies, “Oh, my men will be at your disposal too.”
“Thank you,” Nick says.
“No thank yous are necessary” John notes “We are all in this together, my friend.”
Letting out a smile “That we are” Nick then going over to his men and says “Chad, Davy, fellas, gather round quickly we need to talk.”
Immediately stopping what they are doing and turning their complete attention over to him, Austin asks, “We ready to head over?”
“Not yet,” Nick answers, “We have a few things to go over before we head out.”
Turning to the rest of the men, “As most of you know by now I will be operating Alfredo’s Saloon tonight” Nick starts out with.
“That much we do know,” Spot replies.
“That also means” Nick says “I will be very busy and won’t be able to be here in case something should arise. And seeing that I am in a hurry, let me just say what I came in here to say and then we will take it from there. I first want to thank all of you in advance for what you are about to be doing and taking on. It’s going to get a little hectic and probably more hectic as we move closer to Saturday. I also need to be up front with you telling you that I don’t know yet how this all will play out. For now we will just go with the flow and do our best to follow the plan we have set up.”
“What is the plan?” Johnny asks.
“That” Nick replies “I am not certain of yet either. I do know that some of you will be on hand to assist us with the 4 businesses that we will be commandeering while the rest of you will be busy scouting and patrolling. Once I’ve talked with the family and find out what everyone is doing I will be back to fill you in on what you need to know and who’ll be doing what. I do know this much; all of you need to get a good night sleep. In the morning once you do go out, you will need to be on complete alert, I am relying on you to learn everything you could about what is going on and relay the information back to me.”
“Do you want us to continue traveling in pairs?” Jack asks.
“Yes,” Nick answers, “Still traveling in pairs and your focus will be Pier 9 just like you did when you went out looking for my mother.”
“Pier 9,” Mike brings up, “Is where the Grizzly Bear will be coming in at?”
“That is correct” Nick says “Now your main priority, your main assignment is to ensure the family’s safety. To do that and in the meantime while waiting for the Grizzly Bear to dock; in the morning when you do head out you are to follow the same set of instructions of watching your backs, trusting no one except each other, us here and of course the family just as you did before. If you see any kind of trouble arising, if you hear something or see anything you are to get it back to one of us as quickly as you can. Also we will use the same 3-hour window again for patrolling and getting back to either here or at the moment Alfredo’s.”
“What if we come here,” Alan asks, “And no one is around?”
“Then,” Nick says, “May I suggest if you have any information that is urgent or requiring assistance in any way, that you either write it down on a piece of paper and leave it for whomever shows up here next or find one of us quickly. I will leave a notepad on the table for everyone to use or if it’s that urgent get yourselves to Alfredo’s and let me know immediately.”
“You did say,” Davy brings up, “Alfredo’s would make a great headquarters.”
“I did yes,” Nick admits.
“I think I like that better,” Pete notes.
“So do I,” Joe replies.
“But Alfredo’s,” Nick says, “May not be the best place to discuss information. We won’t know who will be there at the time any of you should come in. There may be someone there that we may not want to know our personal information.”
“What about the three other businesses?” Hank asks.
“Same thing,” Nick says, “The family will be running the Missionary, the Wards House and the Parker House. However at the moment, the Parker House is still being run by whoever operates it. I will be leaving the emptying of that to Jarrod and the rest of the family. Once that is accomplished and implemented each of those three buildings will be your responsibility as well. You will patrol the streets that lead you from here to them and to the pier. You will become watchers, runners and scouts all in one. But once again when you do go out you are to watch out for anything and everything. They could be hiding in the bushes; they could be watching you from the wharfs. They could be anywhere’s that you may not even realize. There could be other businesses around that have a similar looking outpost like we have at Alfredo’s and they could be monitoring your every move without your knowledge.”
“I wouldn’t be surprised,” Oscar retorts.
“Now,” Nick goes on to say, “I know at the moment I am just rambling on and once again I apologize in advance but we do need to be in sync on everything we will be doing and who will be doing what.”
“We understand Nick,” Barrett replies.
“Do you want us to go with the same pairs” Browne asks “As we did this morning?”
“Yes,” Nick says, “Unless something changes I think that your remaining with who you’ve paired up with this morning makes sense.”
“What about us?” Chris asks, “We’re coming with you.”
“Yes and thank you,” Nick says, “Now until I get back I want all of you,” looking over at John’s men as well, “To be studying this here map to get a good idea of where we are in terms of streets and how they connect to Pier 9 to here and to each of the 4 businesses that I just mentioned that you will be patrolling. Once again when you do go out don’t look too conspicuous, after all we don’t want to draw any kind of unwanted attention to you or to any of us. And I believe you know that they could spot an outsider without you even knowing it.”
“That much we do know,” Willard notes.
Nick says “I don’t know if I left anything out but if I did and I think of it when I return I will let you know. Otherwise, when I return we will be on our way to Alfredo’s.”
“We’ll be ready,” Sam announces, “And waiting.”
“I have a question,” Vinnie asks.
“What?” Nick says.
“What are the streets that go to each of these four businesses?” Vinnie wanted to know.
“Oh, sorry,” Nick then says, “The Missionary, The Wards’ House and the Parker House all are next to each other and they run off of Mission and Freemont. Alfredo’s runs off of Freemont and Pine.”
“So,” Jack mentions, “They really aren’t that far away from each other then.”
“No,” Nick says, “And it makes it easier for you to patrol and watch out for anything of interest, let’s say. Plus, it allows you to be able to reach each other a little easier as well. John,” he looks at and asks, “You ready?”
“Ready,” John replies.
“Oh,” Joe asks, “What time will we be heading out?”
“Five a.m.,” Nick says.
After Nick finishes talking the men are left to study the map while he and John exit the cabin and head back to the house together.
8-10-13
Part 440
At the House
Coming in the front door Nick and John Jenkins sees the family gathered with the exception of the children which at the moment are not there.
“We ready to start Nick,” Jarrod asks.
“I believe so,” Nick says, “We do need to get a move on if I am to go head over to Alfredo’s and get it operational.”
“True” Jarrod replies.
“Now that we’re all here together,” Uncle Jim says, “Let’s begin.”
“We did,” Alan says, “Manage to get a hold of a few of the officers that we know will be able to help us on Saturday.”
“That’s a start,” Victoria mentions.
“We talked with A.J. and Artie,” Ray brings up, “And they will do their best with clearing the pier as much as they are able to.”
“My men,” Nick says, “And John’s men are all good to go. They will be patrolling the pier and the four businesses in the morning once they’ve had a goodnight sleep.”
“The marshal,” Jim Sr. mentions, “And Sheriff Hawkins should be arriving around 11:30 tomorrow morning. Carol, Maureen and Linda are also on their way as well.”
“John,” Victoria brings up, “I understand you have help coming.”
“I do, yes” John admits “They’ll be arriving on Saturday.”
“You won’t,” Jarrod joins in with, “Tell us who you have coming?”
Shaking his head “Sorry” John says “Its best I don’t. But let me just say that what I am doing is called being a good neighbor and citizen and I assure you that we will be getting the extra manpower, something we will definitely be needing.”
“You won’t get any argument from me,” Jarrod quips, “If we get even one more to help it would be really appreciated.”
“Well,” John says, “You’re getting that; I just won’t give you anymore information on that, just trust me and wait and see.”
“We do,” Victoria tells him.
“If the train is coming in,” Nick brings up, “At 11:30 then that should give us ample time to get the private car attached for their return trip back.”
“It should,” Jarrod replies, “And since you will be too busy running Alfredo’s, I will take care of that in the morning.”
“Good idea,” Nick says.
As Heath quietly listens to Nick and Jarrod discuss Alfredo’s, the marshal and Warren coming there he quickly averts his attention away. Noticing, “Heath,” Jarrod asks, “Something wrong?”
As he nods his head but doesn’t say anything, “Heath,” Victoria asks, “What is it?”
“If Jarrod manages to attach the private car to the return train back to Echo Lake,” Heath mentions, “They will be taking the men from Alfredo’s and the Parker House with them.”
“And?” Victoria says.
“It’s going to be a long haul,” Heath mentions, “For both Warren and Marshal Sawyer to take on to be certain they all arrive to Echo Lake not to mention the Wheeler Ranch with all those men with them safely.”
“You have any ideas,” Uncle Jim says, “Or suggestions.”
“I do,” Heath admits.
“Let’s hear them,” Victoria says.
“Maybe” Heath brings up “Have a couple of the men go with them. Also, maybe the police department could loan them what they need to be sure they get there all in one piece.”
“You mean like handcuffs,” Alan asks.
“That,” Heath replies, “And something that keeps them from running off, something that goes on their feet but keeps them grouped together.”
“I’ll make certain” Commissioner Gordon says “You have what you need to assure they all arrive to their destination safely. Just let me know how many you’ll need.”
“There are 11,” Nick says, “At the moment down in the cellar of Alfredo’s.”
“So that will be 11 plus” Jim Jr notes “Whatever we take out of the Parker House.”
“Exactly,” Jarrod says.
“Heath,” Nick then brings up, “I’ll have a couple of the men be on hand to go with the marshal and Warren tomorrow.”
“I could have a couple of my men” John offers “To go along as well.”
“Thank you,” Heath replies.
“We checked out each of the businesses,” Jarrod says, “And with the exception of the Parker House they are all ready to open with our services.”
“So far,” Sherry notes, “Everything is running smoothly.”
“So far,” Jim Jr retorts.
“Too smoothly,” Jack mentions.
“I’ve decided to be the one who runs and operates Alfredo’s” Nick announces “And when I head over I will be taking a few of the men with me to help operate it.”
“Heath,” Jarrod then says, “You had some ideas before we came in.”
“I do” Heath admits “Or rather I should say we do. Jim, Ed (looking at each of them) and I came up with the ideas together.”
“Let’s hear them,” Victoria encourages.
“Very well” Heath exhaling heavily says “But I have to change some of what I wrote.”
“Who did you have there?” Nick wanted to know as he looks over on the paper.
“I” Heath says “Or rather we originally were going to have Ed run the Missionary with his wife Jean if she was to come but seeing that she isn’t coming, we had to change that and then we decided to have Terry and Vern running it with me but then, thinking better of it we changed it again and were going to have you running it with me instead.”
Showing him the crossed out names on the paper “You?” Nick asks.
“Yes” Heath replies “I know what it is to run a hotel and a saloon so we figured I would run the Missionary with you, but that was before you said you would be running Alfredo’s.”
“Tell you what” Nick says “How about if you run Alfredo’s with me and select someone else to run the Missionary instead?”
“I guess” Heath replies “That could be arranged. Mr. Jenkins” glancing over at him “Would you be interested in operating the Missionary?”
“I could do that,” John Jenkins answers.
“You’re going to need to close up the window,” Vernon informs him, “That we used to escape from.”
“I’ll take a look at it,” John Jenkins says, “When I go there and see what it needs.”
“Uncle Jim,” Heath brings up, “We have you running the Wards House.”
“What about the Parker House?” Jim Jr asks.
“Once Jarrod” Heath says “Gets it emptied out then Ed and Jack would be running it.”
“Are we running them all by ourselves?” Nick asks.
“No” Heath replies “When the ladies get here, Aunt Carol could run the Wards House with Uncle Jim, Linda and Maureen could be on hand to assist them. We thought maybe Terry and Vernon could help with running the Parker House while Paul, Ferdinand and Dean could help with operating the Missionary.”
“So far,” Jarrod says, “It sounds like a good idea, what else do you have?”
“And,” Heath mentions, “Seeing we need to be getting those businesses operating soon, perhaps you could work on emptying out the Parker House tonight.”
“What would we do with them?” Bill asks.
“For now,” Heath says, “Put them all under arrest and place those going with Frank and Warren tomorrow downstairs of perhaps the Missionary or the Wards’ House that way you could also free the ones being held now.”
“We don’t even know how many there are,” Alan mentions.
“No” Ed joins in with “But that is why you need to take all of them outside of what they have down in their cellars. The sooner they are out of there the better. And seeing you are the police, you should get those you have ready to help do it tonight.”
“He’s right,” Uncle Jim answers.
“I’ll make certain,” Governor Haight says, “It gets cleared out.”
“I will too” Commissioner Gordon acknowledges “Once we finish here I will make it a priority.”
“That will be a big help,” Victoria tells him.
“And since Jarrod is from here” Heath continues “And too noticeable we thought that he and Jim could be the ones who stops by each of the businesses and check on everyone’s progress and pass along any new information that they should come up on.”
“Not a bad idea,” Jack replies.
“You left me out,” Bill mentions.
“We thought you” Heath says “Could be on hand to run the Wards’ House with Uncle Jim just until the morning and when the ladies come to take over, then you could help run the Parker House with Ed and Jack. And until they do get here, we thought perhaps a couple of the men could also be on hand to assist Uncle Jim as well.”
“Not a bad idea,” Nick comments.
Looking over at Ray “Mr. Denton” Heath goes on to say “Seeing you are from here as well you could also stop by each of the businesses and check on everyone’s progress and do the same of passing along any new information that you may come up with.”
“I could do that,” Ray offers.
“I,” Terry brings up, “Just thought of a question.”
“What’s that?” Victoria inquires.
“I know we are moving the current men” Terry mentions “From the Parker House and whoever is down in Alfredo’s to the train in the morning for the sheriff and the marshal to take back with them to Echo Lake, but what happens while the businesses are operating and any crimps should come by with new prisoners. What are you going to do with them?”
“That is a good question Terry,” Victoria replies.
“Yes,” Uncle Jim adds, “A very good question indeed.”
“For now” Jarrod says “We will place those that should come into any of those businesses in the cellar and any prisoners they have with them they will be given the option of either assisting us on Saturday night or they could just leave. It will be entirely up to them what they want to do.”
“What if you get too many crimps,” Terry asks.
“I don’t see that happening” Nick says “But if that should happen those we end up with tonight and going into tomorrow we could add to the list of going with the sheriff and the marshal back to Echo Lake. The rest we end up with we will hold onto just until Saturday night. After that they will be turned over to the police commissioner and the governor to deal with.”
“And I give you my word,” Governor Haight replies, “I will deal with it.”
“Same here,” Commissioner Gordon replies.
“But,” Terry goes on with, “By putting those crimps down in the cellar you will still be putting yourselves at risk.”
“How do you mean?” Jack asks.
“Leaving them down in the cellar,” Terry says, “Anybody coming by they recognize they could alert them to what is going on.”
“Perhaps,” Heath joins in with, “We could somehow create a makeshift prison and have a few of the men watching over them.”
“Not a bad idea,” Jarrod replies.
“Not a bad idea at all” Nick says “And I think I have the ideal place to put them.”
“Where,” Heath asks.
“I’ll have to show you” Nick tells him “Its a little building I saw not too far away from Alfredo’s that could easily be turned into a makeshift prison and it could very well be monitored by us as well.”
“Then” Jarrod says “That is what we will do with any crimps we should capture. We will turn them over to this makeshift prison and then on Saturday night once again they will be turned over to the police and governor to deal with.”
“You would have to move them,” Terry notes, “At night time.”
“That much we do know,” Jarrod mentions.
“And with the three businesses,” Bill brings up, “Being close to each other we could very well be on hand to assist one another if necessary.”
“Exactly,” Uncle Jim notes.
“The only one that is furthest away,” Nick mentions, “Is Alfredo’s.”
“But not really that far either,” Jarrod points out, “It’s just down the road aways.”
“True,” Nick says.
“So we’ll deal with it,” Jack mentions, “When the time comes.”
“Right,” Nick responds.
“I do have a question,” Ferdinand brings up.
“What’s that?” Victoria asks.
“Heath,” Ferdinand mentions, “And Jack look alike. If one is running Alfredo’s and the other is running the Parker House someone who visits them might think they’re seeing double and question that.”
“If that should happen” Nick says “We’ll cross that bridge when the time comes up.”
“And,” Jarrod adds, “We’ll think of something.”
“Anything else?” Victoria says.
“I do have a question,” Sherry brings up.
“What’s that?” Jarrod asks.
The children quietly walk in the front door and upon listening hear “If you move those men tonight” Sherry mentions “How are you going to be able to move them from where they will be kept to the train when it comes in? I would think you would want to do it as discreetly as possible.”
“Discreetly?” Heath mimics.
“Causing not too much attention,” Victoria reiterates.
“We do,” Jarrod replies
“If you move them out,” Sherry brings up, “In the daytime when the train is about to head out you will be drawing a lot of attention that you don’t want.”
“No,” Jarrod replies.
“Maybe,” Nick mentions, “We could do something in way of distracting everyone and while they are being distracted we could move them then.”
“Got any suggestions?” Jarrod asks.
“We could use the fog horn,” Ray suggests, “That the children have inside their hide out.”
“That’s a start,” Nick says.
“We’ll have to think of something more” Ed brings up “That will make a lot of noise that will distract everyone that is there while at the same time moving those men.”
“Let’s think on that for the moment,” Jarrod replies.
tbc
Stockton
Bunkhouse
Tina knocking at the front door is greeted by Ciego who asks, “You here to see Ron?”
“Yes,” she replies, “Is he here?”
“He is,” Ciego tells her, “Come on in. I’ll go get him for you.”
Replying “Thank you” Tina walks in while Ciego goes into the sleeping quarters to inform Ron who is engaged in a game of checkers with Bobby about Tina waiting to see him.
“Excuse me,” Ron says to Bobby who replies, “Certainly.”
Getting up and exiting the room Ron quickly goes to meet with Tina waiting patiently for him.
“Hi Tina,” Ron says.
“Sorry to bother you so late,” Tina mentions.
“It’s not late,” Ron replies.
“Maybe not,” Tina says.
“Want to go outside,” Ron offers.
“Sure,” Tina replies.
Upon going outside and walking around for a bit, “What is it?” Ron asks.
“I have to break our date for Saturday,” Tina informs him.
“Is it because of the wire that came,” Ron wanted to know.
“Yes” Tina admits “Mother has to go to San Francisco. She doesn’t want me leaving the ranch while she’s gone. She asked me to postpone our date until she gets back. I feel so bad about this. I really wanted us to go out.”
“Don’t be,” Ron says, “And I quite understand. Would it be alright if we did something around here?”
Smiling, “It would indeed,” Tina mentions.
“How about a picnic” Ron suggests.
“We could do that and I was hoping you would say that,” Tina says, “Maybe we could have it at either Jarrod’s meadow or at Jarrod’s pond.”
“Jarrod’s meadow sounds,” Ron notes, “Like an ideal place for us to have the picnic. What time would you like for us to meet?”
“How about,” Tina suggests, “Maybe around 11? It’ll give me time to do all of what I have to do around here.”
“Eleven it is then,” Ron says.
“I’ll see you on Saturday then,” Tina informs him, “If something changes I will let you know that too.”
“Very good,” Ron says and while Tina heads for the house Ron goes back inside the bunkhouse.
Returning to the back room Bobby asks, “What was that all about?”
“She told me we couldn’t go into town on Saturday,” Ron mentions.
“Is it because of the wire that came in?” Bobby asks.
“Yes,” Ron replies.
“I figured as much,” Bobby notes.
“We’ll still keep our date,” Ron mentions, “It’s just we’ll do a picnic and stay at the ranch instead.”
“Good idea,” Bobby comments.
“Would you like to join us?” Ron offers.
“How about,” Bobby says, “If I let you know?”
“Okay,” Ron replies.
Jarrod’s House
As Nick and Jarrod walk in the front door, “How’d’you make out?” Heath asks of them while lying on the sofa.
“We went to each of the saloons and boarding houses” Nick answers “As well as the hide out those children have” then glancing about “Speaking of which” he asks “Where is everybody?” seeing only Heath, Jim Jr and Ed in the room.
“Scattered,” Heath replies “Mother is over at the Dentons, the children are outside.”
“The governor and the police commissioner” Ed mentions “Will be back. They both went to work on who will be working with us. They said they will be back shortly.”
“Father” Jim Jr brings up “Went to let your mother know about the wire that just arrived.”
“Wire” Jarrod asks.
“Yes” Jim Jr replies, “From the marshal that you wired.”
“What did it say?” Jarrod asks eagerly.
“It said they’re on their way,” Jim Jr mentions, “And they will be here sometime tomorrow. Father has the time of when they will arrive.”
“So,” Nick says, “They are definitely coming.”
“Yes,” Jim Jr replies, “He actually received two wires.”
“Who was the second one from?” Jarrod asks.
“The rest of the family is coming,” Jim Jr answers.
“Mr. Jenkins,” Heath brings up, “Also received one.”
“From whom” Nick asks, “Did he say?”
“No,” Heath says.
“All he said was” Ed mentions “Help is coming.”
“Help” Jarrod asks.
“Yes” Ed replies “The wire he sent out I believe he is getting help to join us for Saturday. He didn’t say who exactly he wired to come but he did say help is on the way.”
“He then went out,” Heath adds, “To inform his men about who he has coming.”
“We better round everyone up,” Jarrod says.
“You go round everyone up,” Nick insists, “I have to talk to the men at the cabin. We have a lot of work ahead of us.”
“Like,” Heath asks, “Who will be running the businesses?”
“That,” Nick says, “And a few other things.”
“I made a list,” Heath notes.
“Very good,” Nick replies.
“We’ll go over it,” Jarrod says, “Just as soon as I find everybody. Be right back.”
“Want some help?” Ed offers.
“If you won’t mind,” Nick says, “Be back shortly.”
And with that Ed and Jim Jr get up and they along with Nick and Jarrod go to round everyone up. While Heath remains on the couch, Nick, Jarrod and Ed all go out the door while Jim Jr goes up the stairs.
7/16/13
Stockton
As Duke is bringing the hitched up buggy to the doorway Maureen and Linda have already gone out the door; Carol, with Jean, Tina and Chrissy in tow follow right behind them.
After the buggy has been brought to a complete stop Duke gets out and assists each of the ladies into their seats along with each of their suitcases. After Carol has been helped into her seat she says, “You’ll be alright while we’re gone?” to Jean, Tina and Chrissy standing there.
“Of course we will,” Jean notes.
“We’ll be fine,” Chrissy says.
“Give Ed my love,” Jean mentions.
“Good luck Mother,” Tina tells her.
“I’ll let you know what’s going on,” Carol says, “Once I find out.”
“I’d appreciate that,” Jean states.
Returning to the driver’s box Duke grabs hold of the reins and slowly moves out. As they continue moving away Jean, Tina and Chrissy are there waving to them until they are out of sight.
“Come on,” Jean then says to Tina and Chrissy who follow her back into the house.
8/2/13
Log Cabin
Going inside the log cabin Nick sees his men all engaged in something and upon looking further he notices John Jenkins talking with his men and in turn, upon hearing the door open notices him as he walks in.
After addressing each other by their names, “How’d it go?” John asks.
“Went well,” Nick admits.
“From talking to some of your men,” John mentions, “I gathered as much. They also mentioned that you will be operating one of the businesses tonight.”
“Yes,” Nick admits, “The one called Alfredo’s” then changing topics, “Speaking of which,” Nick says, “I understand you received a wire.”
“I did yes,” John informs him.
“From what I understand,” Nick adds, “You have some kind of help coming?”
Nodding his head, “I do yes,” John admits.
“If you don’t mind,” Nick asks, “Could you tell me who?”
“Not yet,” John says, “But I assure you we could use the help. Having just 75 of us is not enough to go out and deal with what is coming in.”
“That much I do know,” Nick replies.
“I can’t give you all the details yet,” John says, “But I will tell you they will be arriving on Saturday.”
Letting out a deep sigh, “I don’t know what to say,” Nick brings up.
“Don’t say anything,” John says, “Let’s just say we’re all in this together and I could assure you that you won’t be disappointed.”
Raising an eyebrow “Very well” Nick replies “Seeing that I am in somewhat of a hurry I will let it go at that for now.”
“Thank you,” John then brings up, “Oh, would you care for some more help?”
“I would yes” Nick says “But first let me take care of what I came in here to do and then we could head over to the house. Jarrod is rounding up the rest of the family so we could all know what we will be doing from now until Saturday night.”
“Sure thing,” John replies, “Oh, my men will be at your disposal too.”
“Thank you,” Nick says.
“No thank yous are necessary” John notes “We are all in this together, my friend.”
Letting out a smile “That we are” Nick then going over to his men and says “Chad, Davy, fellas, gather round quickly we need to talk.”
Immediately stopping what they are doing and turning their complete attention over to him, Austin asks, “We ready to head over?”
“Not yet,” Nick answers, “We have a few things to go over before we head out.”
Turning to the rest of the men, “As most of you know by now I will be operating Alfredo’s Saloon tonight” Nick starts out with.
“That much we do know,” Spot replies.
“That also means” Nick says “I will be very busy and won’t be able to be here in case something should arise. And seeing that I am in a hurry, let me just say what I came in here to say and then we will take it from there. I first want to thank all of you in advance for what you are about to be doing and taking on. It’s going to get a little hectic and probably more hectic as we move closer to Saturday. I also need to be up front with you telling you that I don’t know yet how this all will play out. For now we will just go with the flow and do our best to follow the plan we have set up.”
“What is the plan?” Johnny asks.
“That” Nick replies “I am not certain of yet either. I do know that some of you will be on hand to assist us with the 4 businesses that we will be commandeering while the rest of you will be busy scouting and patrolling. Once I’ve talked with the family and find out what everyone is doing I will be back to fill you in on what you need to know and who’ll be doing what. I do know this much; all of you need to get a good night sleep. In the morning once you do go out, you will need to be on complete alert, I am relying on you to learn everything you could about what is going on and relay the information back to me.”
“Do you want us to continue traveling in pairs?” Jack asks.
“Yes,” Nick answers, “Still traveling in pairs and your focus will be Pier 9 just like you did when you went out looking for my mother.”
“Pier 9,” Mike brings up, “Is where the Grizzly Bear will be coming in at?”
“That is correct” Nick says “Now your main priority, your main assignment is to ensure the family’s safety. To do that and in the meantime while waiting for the Grizzly Bear to dock; in the morning when you do head out you are to follow the same set of instructions of watching your backs, trusting no one except each other, us here and of course the family just as you did before. If you see any kind of trouble arising, if you hear something or see anything you are to get it back to one of us as quickly as you can. Also we will use the same 3-hour window again for patrolling and getting back to either here or at the moment Alfredo’s.”
“What if we come here,” Alan asks, “And no one is around?”
“Then,” Nick says, “May I suggest if you have any information that is urgent or requiring assistance in any way, that you either write it down on a piece of paper and leave it for whomever shows up here next or find one of us quickly. I will leave a notepad on the table for everyone to use or if it’s that urgent get yourselves to Alfredo’s and let me know immediately.”
“You did say,” Davy brings up, “Alfredo’s would make a great headquarters.”
“I did yes,” Nick admits.
“I think I like that better,” Pete notes.
“So do I,” Joe replies.
“But Alfredo’s,” Nick says, “May not be the best place to discuss information. We won’t know who will be there at the time any of you should come in. There may be someone there that we may not want to know our personal information.”
“What about the three other businesses?” Hank asks.
“Same thing,” Nick says, “The family will be running the Missionary, the Wards House and the Parker House. However at the moment, the Parker House is still being run by whoever operates it. I will be leaving the emptying of that to Jarrod and the rest of the family. Once that is accomplished and implemented each of those three buildings will be your responsibility as well. You will patrol the streets that lead you from here to them and to the pier. You will become watchers, runners and scouts all in one. But once again when you do go out you are to watch out for anything and everything. They could be hiding in the bushes; they could be watching you from the wharfs. They could be anywhere’s that you may not even realize. There could be other businesses around that have a similar looking outpost like we have at Alfredo’s and they could be monitoring your every move without your knowledge.”
“I wouldn’t be surprised,” Oscar retorts.
“Now,” Nick goes on to say, “I know at the moment I am just rambling on and once again I apologize in advance but we do need to be in sync on everything we will be doing and who will be doing what.”
“We understand Nick,” Barrett replies.
“Do you want us to go with the same pairs” Browne asks “As we did this morning?”
“Yes,” Nick says, “Unless something changes I think that your remaining with who you’ve paired up with this morning makes sense.”
“What about us?” Chris asks, “We’re coming with you.”
“Yes and thank you,” Nick says, “Now until I get back I want all of you,” looking over at John’s men as well, “To be studying this here map to get a good idea of where we are in terms of streets and how they connect to Pier 9 to here and to each of the 4 businesses that I just mentioned that you will be patrolling. Once again when you do go out don’t look too conspicuous, after all we don’t want to draw any kind of unwanted attention to you or to any of us. And I believe you know that they could spot an outsider without you even knowing it.”
“That much we do know,” Willard notes.
Nick says “I don’t know if I left anything out but if I did and I think of it when I return I will let you know. Otherwise, when I return we will be on our way to Alfredo’s.”
“We’ll be ready,” Sam announces, “And waiting.”
“I have a question,” Vinnie asks.
“What?” Nick says.
“What are the streets that go to each of these four businesses?” Vinnie wanted to know.
“Oh, sorry,” Nick then says, “The Missionary, The Wards’ House and the Parker House all are next to each other and they run off of Mission and Freemont. Alfredo’s runs off of Freemont and Pine.”
“So,” Jack mentions, “They really aren’t that far away from each other then.”
“No,” Nick says, “And it makes it easier for you to patrol and watch out for anything of interest, let’s say. Plus, it allows you to be able to reach each other a little easier as well. John,” he looks at and asks, “You ready?”
“Ready,” John replies.
“Oh,” Joe asks, “What time will we be heading out?”
“Five a.m.,” Nick says.
After Nick finishes talking the men are left to study the map while he and John exit the cabin and head back to the house together.
8-10-13
Part 440
At the House
Coming in the front door Nick and John Jenkins sees the family gathered with the exception of the children which at the moment are not there.
“We ready to start Nick,” Jarrod asks.
“I believe so,” Nick says, “We do need to get a move on if I am to go head over to Alfredo’s and get it operational.”
“True” Jarrod replies.
“Now that we’re all here together,” Uncle Jim says, “Let’s begin.”
“We did,” Alan says, “Manage to get a hold of a few of the officers that we know will be able to help us on Saturday.”
“That’s a start,” Victoria mentions.
“We talked with A.J. and Artie,” Ray brings up, “And they will do their best with clearing the pier as much as they are able to.”
“My men,” Nick says, “And John’s men are all good to go. They will be patrolling the pier and the four businesses in the morning once they’ve had a goodnight sleep.”
“The marshal,” Jim Sr. mentions, “And Sheriff Hawkins should be arriving around 11:30 tomorrow morning. Carol, Maureen and Linda are also on their way as well.”
“John,” Victoria brings up, “I understand you have help coming.”
“I do, yes” John admits “They’ll be arriving on Saturday.”
“You won’t,” Jarrod joins in with, “Tell us who you have coming?”
Shaking his head “Sorry” John says “Its best I don’t. But let me just say that what I am doing is called being a good neighbor and citizen and I assure you that we will be getting the extra manpower, something we will definitely be needing.”
“You won’t get any argument from me,” Jarrod quips, “If we get even one more to help it would be really appreciated.”
“Well,” John says, “You’re getting that; I just won’t give you anymore information on that, just trust me and wait and see.”
“We do,” Victoria tells him.
“If the train is coming in,” Nick brings up, “At 11:30 then that should give us ample time to get the private car attached for their return trip back.”
“It should,” Jarrod replies, “And since you will be too busy running Alfredo’s, I will take care of that in the morning.”
“Good idea,” Nick says.
As Heath quietly listens to Nick and Jarrod discuss Alfredo’s, the marshal and Warren coming there he quickly averts his attention away. Noticing, “Heath,” Jarrod asks, “Something wrong?”
As he nods his head but doesn’t say anything, “Heath,” Victoria asks, “What is it?”
“If Jarrod manages to attach the private car to the return train back to Echo Lake,” Heath mentions, “They will be taking the men from Alfredo’s and the Parker House with them.”
“And?” Victoria says.
“It’s going to be a long haul,” Heath mentions, “For both Warren and Marshal Sawyer to take on to be certain they all arrive to Echo Lake not to mention the Wheeler Ranch with all those men with them safely.”
“You have any ideas,” Uncle Jim says, “Or suggestions.”
“I do,” Heath admits.
“Let’s hear them,” Victoria says.
“Maybe” Heath brings up “Have a couple of the men go with them. Also, maybe the police department could loan them what they need to be sure they get there all in one piece.”
“You mean like handcuffs,” Alan asks.
“That,” Heath replies, “And something that keeps them from running off, something that goes on their feet but keeps them grouped together.”
“I’ll make certain” Commissioner Gordon says “You have what you need to assure they all arrive to their destination safely. Just let me know how many you’ll need.”
“There are 11,” Nick says, “At the moment down in the cellar of Alfredo’s.”
“So that will be 11 plus” Jim Jr notes “Whatever we take out of the Parker House.”
“Exactly,” Jarrod says.
“Heath,” Nick then brings up, “I’ll have a couple of the men be on hand to go with the marshal and Warren tomorrow.”
“I could have a couple of my men” John offers “To go along as well.”
“Thank you,” Heath replies.
“We checked out each of the businesses,” Jarrod says, “And with the exception of the Parker House they are all ready to open with our services.”
“So far,” Sherry notes, “Everything is running smoothly.”
“So far,” Jim Jr retorts.
“Too smoothly,” Jack mentions.
“I’ve decided to be the one who runs and operates Alfredo’s” Nick announces “And when I head over I will be taking a few of the men with me to help operate it.”
“Heath,” Jarrod then says, “You had some ideas before we came in.”
“I do” Heath admits “Or rather I should say we do. Jim, Ed (looking at each of them) and I came up with the ideas together.”
“Let’s hear them,” Victoria encourages.
“Very well” Heath exhaling heavily says “But I have to change some of what I wrote.”
“Who did you have there?” Nick wanted to know as he looks over on the paper.
“I” Heath says “Or rather we originally were going to have Ed run the Missionary with his wife Jean if she was to come but seeing that she isn’t coming, we had to change that and then we decided to have Terry and Vern running it with me but then, thinking better of it we changed it again and were going to have you running it with me instead.”
Showing him the crossed out names on the paper “You?” Nick asks.
“Yes” Heath replies “I know what it is to run a hotel and a saloon so we figured I would run the Missionary with you, but that was before you said you would be running Alfredo’s.”
“Tell you what” Nick says “How about if you run Alfredo’s with me and select someone else to run the Missionary instead?”
“I guess” Heath replies “That could be arranged. Mr. Jenkins” glancing over at him “Would you be interested in operating the Missionary?”
“I could do that,” John Jenkins answers.
“You’re going to need to close up the window,” Vernon informs him, “That we used to escape from.”
“I’ll take a look at it,” John Jenkins says, “When I go there and see what it needs.”
“Uncle Jim,” Heath brings up, “We have you running the Wards House.”
“What about the Parker House?” Jim Jr asks.
“Once Jarrod” Heath says “Gets it emptied out then Ed and Jack would be running it.”
“Are we running them all by ourselves?” Nick asks.
“No” Heath replies “When the ladies get here, Aunt Carol could run the Wards House with Uncle Jim, Linda and Maureen could be on hand to assist them. We thought maybe Terry and Vernon could help with running the Parker House while Paul, Ferdinand and Dean could help with operating the Missionary.”
“So far,” Jarrod says, “It sounds like a good idea, what else do you have?”
“And,” Heath mentions, “Seeing we need to be getting those businesses operating soon, perhaps you could work on emptying out the Parker House tonight.”
“What would we do with them?” Bill asks.
“For now,” Heath says, “Put them all under arrest and place those going with Frank and Warren tomorrow downstairs of perhaps the Missionary or the Wards’ House that way you could also free the ones being held now.”
“We don’t even know how many there are,” Alan mentions.
“No” Ed joins in with “But that is why you need to take all of them outside of what they have down in their cellars. The sooner they are out of there the better. And seeing you are the police, you should get those you have ready to help do it tonight.”
“He’s right,” Uncle Jim answers.
“I’ll make certain,” Governor Haight says, “It gets cleared out.”
“I will too” Commissioner Gordon acknowledges “Once we finish here I will make it a priority.”
“That will be a big help,” Victoria tells him.
“And since Jarrod is from here” Heath continues “And too noticeable we thought that he and Jim could be the ones who stops by each of the businesses and check on everyone’s progress and pass along any new information that they should come up on.”
“Not a bad idea,” Jack replies.
“You left me out,” Bill mentions.
“We thought you” Heath says “Could be on hand to run the Wards’ House with Uncle Jim just until the morning and when the ladies come to take over, then you could help run the Parker House with Ed and Jack. And until they do get here, we thought perhaps a couple of the men could also be on hand to assist Uncle Jim as well.”
“Not a bad idea,” Nick comments.
Looking over at Ray “Mr. Denton” Heath goes on to say “Seeing you are from here as well you could also stop by each of the businesses and check on everyone’s progress and do the same of passing along any new information that you may come up with.”
“I could do that,” Ray offers.
“I,” Terry brings up, “Just thought of a question.”
“What’s that?” Victoria inquires.
“I know we are moving the current men” Terry mentions “From the Parker House and whoever is down in Alfredo’s to the train in the morning for the sheriff and the marshal to take back with them to Echo Lake, but what happens while the businesses are operating and any crimps should come by with new prisoners. What are you going to do with them?”
“That is a good question Terry,” Victoria replies.
“Yes,” Uncle Jim adds, “A very good question indeed.”
“For now” Jarrod says “We will place those that should come into any of those businesses in the cellar and any prisoners they have with them they will be given the option of either assisting us on Saturday night or they could just leave. It will be entirely up to them what they want to do.”
“What if you get too many crimps,” Terry asks.
“I don’t see that happening” Nick says “But if that should happen those we end up with tonight and going into tomorrow we could add to the list of going with the sheriff and the marshal back to Echo Lake. The rest we end up with we will hold onto just until Saturday night. After that they will be turned over to the police commissioner and the governor to deal with.”
“And I give you my word,” Governor Haight replies, “I will deal with it.”
“Same here,” Commissioner Gordon replies.
“But,” Terry goes on with, “By putting those crimps down in the cellar you will still be putting yourselves at risk.”
“How do you mean?” Jack asks.
“Leaving them down in the cellar,” Terry says, “Anybody coming by they recognize they could alert them to what is going on.”
“Perhaps,” Heath joins in with, “We could somehow create a makeshift prison and have a few of the men watching over them.”
“Not a bad idea,” Jarrod replies.
“Not a bad idea at all” Nick says “And I think I have the ideal place to put them.”
“Where,” Heath asks.
“I’ll have to show you” Nick tells him “Its a little building I saw not too far away from Alfredo’s that could easily be turned into a makeshift prison and it could very well be monitored by us as well.”
“Then” Jarrod says “That is what we will do with any crimps we should capture. We will turn them over to this makeshift prison and then on Saturday night once again they will be turned over to the police and governor to deal with.”
“You would have to move them,” Terry notes, “At night time.”
“That much we do know,” Jarrod mentions.
“And with the three businesses,” Bill brings up, “Being close to each other we could very well be on hand to assist one another if necessary.”
“Exactly,” Uncle Jim notes.
“The only one that is furthest away,” Nick mentions, “Is Alfredo’s.”
“But not really that far either,” Jarrod points out, “It’s just down the road aways.”
“True,” Nick says.
“So we’ll deal with it,” Jack mentions, “When the time comes.”
“Right,” Nick responds.
“I do have a question,” Ferdinand brings up.
“What’s that?” Victoria asks.
“Heath,” Ferdinand mentions, “And Jack look alike. If one is running Alfredo’s and the other is running the Parker House someone who visits them might think they’re seeing double and question that.”
“If that should happen” Nick says “We’ll cross that bridge when the time comes up.”
“And,” Jarrod adds, “We’ll think of something.”
“Anything else?” Victoria says.
“I do have a question,” Sherry brings up.
“What’s that?” Jarrod asks.
The children quietly walk in the front door and upon listening hear “If you move those men tonight” Sherry mentions “How are you going to be able to move them from where they will be kept to the train when it comes in? I would think you would want to do it as discreetly as possible.”
“Discreetly?” Heath mimics.
“Causing not too much attention,” Victoria reiterates.
“We do,” Jarrod replies
“If you move them out,” Sherry brings up, “In the daytime when the train is about to head out you will be drawing a lot of attention that you don’t want.”
“No,” Jarrod replies.
“Maybe,” Nick mentions, “We could do something in way of distracting everyone and while they are being distracted we could move them then.”
“Got any suggestions?” Jarrod asks.
“We could use the fog horn,” Ray suggests, “That the children have inside their hide out.”
“That’s a start,” Nick says.
“We’ll have to think of something more” Ed brings up “That will make a lot of noise that will distract everyone that is there while at the same time moving those men.”
“Let’s think on that for the moment,” Jarrod replies.
tbc
