Story Demon Hunters -The Truck the Witch and the Blacksmith (Book 1)
- Thread starter gonewacky
- Start date
gonewacky
Veteran Member
The Truck the Witch and the Blacksmith
Chapter One – The Beginning
Suzy stood still with her long fire red hair half blowing over her face, as he stepped next to her. He was an Indian with long black hair hanging over his shoulders, and a bright colored head band. He was holding a bow in his hand, and had a Tomahawk hanging on his side. Speaking softly he explained, “There is some things you need to know. Without Love we can no longer see the world. We become possessed and controlled by an evil spirit. We turn inwardly and began to feed on our self. Then little by little we destroy ourselves, and everything around us. This includes the ones we once loved. There is only two ways this will end. Either you die and go to hell, or someone like us cast the demon out of you. You have that power Suzy. You can make an energy ball and slam it into their chest. Hold your hand over it as you command the spirit back into the ground. That energy is pure love and evil has no power over it. It will have to obey your command it has no choice.
If it doesn’t work then you have what we have here. The person is dead and their soul is gone. It’s just pure evil possessing the body. Then all you can do is hang them and burn the body. Then the demon can’t use that body anymore.The land we live in is the land between good and evil. There is no time here this is a buffer zone between the living and the dead. It is also the place between the Angels and the Demons. Bird Man and I have been here fighting Demons for fifty or maybe even seventy years, it’s hard to keep track of time when you are jumping around through the time passages. I don’t think we’ve aged as much as a day in all that time.
I’ve seen you have the power to make a ball of bright flashing colored light, or energy ball. I also know you can levitate in the air, and shoot lightning bolts from your finger. Other things happen if you throw an energy ball in the air, and shoot it with a lightning bolt. I know I too have this power.
Jim has the same power as Bird Man he can slow time and just think of a place and he’s there. You can throw a ball of bright flashing colored light in the air, and shoot it with a lightning bolt. Then thousands of little flashing stars will rain down, and Jim can blink everyone and everything in the stars to any place and time.”
One Year Earlier
The morning was cold for a spring day, so cold you could see your breath. Jim pulled his jacket tight as he walked to the truck. The frozen grass crunched under his feet as he passed the old oak tree. Looking back at the barn he whispered, “You might get new life today. That’s if we’re lucky.”
Jim started the old one ton Dodge, and did one last walk around just to be sure. It all looked good, so he climbed up into the cab. Jim put on the lap belt and slipped the truck into gear. With a squeak and growl the old truck rolled forward, and he was off for a once in a lifetime adventure.
Jim drove the seventy miles to the next county. Getting close he saw the sign with an arrow. Turning right he headed down the old country road. He was having some strange feelings. It was like excitement and fear mixed up in a jumbled mess. He felt short of breath and it was like looking through a fog. Then he saw it. The sign said, “Estate auction 10:00 AM.”
Jim turned down the driveway to the old farm house. He could see about a dozen cars and a group of people by the house. One man said to another, “Look he’s got a trailer. Bet he thinks he’s getting the tractor.”
Then he saw it. It was parked next to the old 1947 Farmall Cub. Jim questioned himself, “That old tractor was about $500 new. Wonder if it will go for ten times that today.”
Jim looked at the 1945 Diamond T 968 4-ton 6x6. It was a mess. The trucks tires where flat and half rotted away. The windshield was busted with a big hole through it. There wasn’t a place on it that didn’t have rust. Jim’s hart started to pound hard in his chest. He had five thousand with him, but this wasn’t what he had expected. He got out of his truck to take a better look.
Jim stepped up on the running board and looked inside the cab. The seat wasn’t gone, but all that was left was the frame and springs. The speedometer had a cracked glass, but the rest all looked intact. He got down and walked out in front of the truck. By then a group had gathered around the tractor. Pulling his phone from his pocket he saw it was 9:55.
That’s when he saw her. She was all dolled up, and looked out of place for this event. She had long wavy auburn hair and the greenest eyes he had ever seen. Her dress made her look like she just stepped out of a 1950’s magazine. The dress was aqua with little white harts all over it and a white belt. It had white lace around the neck, sleeves, and hem.
Jim broke out of his trance when he heard, “The next item up for bid is this 1947 Farmall Cub. As you can see it has been completely restored. It’s as nice as you will ever find for a post WWII tractor. We’ll start the bidding at $5000. Do I have 5? Right over there I got 5 do I hear 6.”
Jim stared at the auctioneer in the black cowboy hat as bids went up. Then a man yelled, “12-5!”
It went quiet then the auctioneer called out, “I have 12-5 do I hear 13?” After three calls it sold for $12,500.
Jim could feel his skin tingle as his heart raced. The auctioneer stepped in front of the truck and called out, “What we have here is a 1945 Diamond T 968 4-ton 6x6. Its seen better days, but it’s a rare find.”A man in a red plaid shirt yelled out $500. The auctioneer smiled and said, “Come on folks the front bumper is worth that.”
Jim blurted out, “Thousand.”
The Man quickly responded, “Five thousand.”
Jim’s heart pounded hard. All he had was Five thousand, and all seamed lost. That’s when he felt a hand on his shoulder, and turned his head. It was the hot chick in the green dress. Slipping her hand in his jacket pocket she yelled out, “Ten thousand.”
It went quiet as the auctioneer called out, “I have 10 from the man in the brown jacket do I.”
The Man quickly responded, “Eleven thousand.”
The auctioneer called out, “I have 11 do I hear 12?”
She yelled out again, “15!”
The auctioneer called out, “I have 15 do I hear 16?”
The auctioneer called out two more times. Then he called out sold to the man in the brown jacket. That’s when she whispered in his ear, “The check is in your pocket. Just do what’s right.”
The crowd started to disperse and Jim just stood there in a daze. Then he snapped out of it thinking, What just happened.
He turned to look for her, but she was gone. He couldn’t see her anywhere. The auctioneer walked by and said, “See you inside to settle up.”
Jim walked to the farm house thinking. What is going on here? He pulled the check from his pocket. Looking it over it was blank with Suzy White’s signature on it. Shaking his head he thought, “This must be some kind of scam or something.”
Walking in the door he saw a folding table with two chairs. One had an older lady with white hair sitting behind a box of file folders. The other had the auctioneer doing the bill of sales receipts. Jim got in line behind the other people.
One by one they paid, and got a receipt. Then it was Jim’s turn.
The auctioneer announced, “Oh yes the truck.” Turning to the lady next to him he requested, “Margret I need the bill of sales and title transfer paper work for the truck.”
She pulled a folder from the box and laid it on the table. The auctioneer pulled out two pages and said, “Sign here by the X on both of the bill of sales.”
Then he laid down the title and instructed, “Fill out this part where you want the title mailed to and sign at the bottom. Then I need to see the 15 thousand.”
Jim stood there looking at the paper work as the auctioneer questioned, “Is there a problem?”
Jim was feeling strange about this whole thing. It just didn’t seem right. With a shaky voice Jim proclaimed, “I only have 5 thousand in cash.”
The auctioneer questioned, “Then you will be writing a check for the rest?”
Jim pulled the check from his pocket and replied, “This is the only check I have, but it’s not mine.”
The auctioneer snatched the check right out of Jim’s hand. He looked at it. Then he laid it on the table. Filled it out for ten thousand, and stamped the auction company name on the pay to line. Then he looked at Jim and questioned, “The cash?”
Jim pulled the envelope from his inside jacket pocket, and handed it to him. The auctioneer opened the envelope and thumbed through the money. Handing it to Margret he requested, “Take care of this and make the man a receipt. Then pulling another page from the folder he proclaimed, “Fill this out with the address you want it delivered to, and a phone number in case we need to contact you. We will deliver the truck as soon as the check clears. The title should come in the mail in about six weeks.”
Jim just stood there as a lady stepped up and announced, “I got the bedroom set.”
Then he turned and slowly walked through the door. Stepping outside he saw a Trail-Eze low boy backing up to the truck. Jim thought No! That’s my truck.
He looked on the truck door and saw. Anderson Equipment Hauling Co. Jims mind raced thinking he just got scammed out of five grand. He took his phone from his pocket. He saw three bars. Relief falls over him and he did a search. Sure enough it was a real company.
Jim walked over to the truck. The driver was back at the trailer pushing a lever. The back axels where sliding forward making the back end drop to the ground. Jim stood next to the driver not saying a word. When the driver finished he turned and asked, “Can I help you?”
Jim replied, “That’s my truck.”
Looking Jim over the man replied, “Is that the paper work in your hand.”
Jim nodded as the driver asked, “Can I see it?”
Jim handed him the bill of sale. Looking it over the driver handed it back and said, “OK then. I’ll put some slack in the winch line, and you can hook it to whatever you think is best. I’d say the bumper, but looking at this thing it might pull it off.”
Jim walked to the back of the trailer mumbling, “Pull the bumper off my ass.” Then Jim pulled on the hook as the driver let out some cable. He wrapped it around the bumper. And yelled, “Go ahead.”
Standing back Jim watched as all the tires skidded over the ground. Not one rim was turning. This was one of Jim’s worst fears, and he ran to the other side of the truck. Sure enough not one rim was turning on that side ether.
The hydraulic winch didn’t miss a beat. It just dragged the truck onto the trailer. Then the driver pulled out some chains and stopped to talk to Jim, “I will deliver this tomorrow. I’m taking this load to the yard, and picking up another trailer. I have a road-grader I have to deliver this afternoon.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Jim replied, “They told me I had to wait for the check to clear.”
The driver insisted, “Let me check on that.” Then he headed for the house.
Jim went to his truck, and sat with the window down. Soon the truck driver came back out, and walked over to Jim’s truck. Looking at Jim he commented, “It all looks good. They gave me the delivery address and told me they already got confirmation on the check. See you tomorrow.” Then he walked back to the truck, and started chaining the truck down.
Jim sat in his truck for a few. Them he pulled out heading home. It did worry him that he just spent five grand and had nothing to show for it. He thought about his wife Autum and what she would say about this kind of thing. Don’t pay for it until you have it in hand.
Well he didn’t have it in hand, but it was the best he could do. Then there was the ten thousand from the check. What was that? He was starting to feel like he just stepped into The Twilight Zone. He knew there might be a catch, but what could it be. He remembered Autum saying, You have to chase your dreams. No matter how hard it gets or how far you have to go. Never give up on a dream!
This was Jim’s dream and had been all his life. It goes back to when he was a kid playing with army men in the sandbox. With Autum gone, now was the time to chase that dream, and this was the start of it. Jim pulled in his driveway, and backed the trailer next to the barn. Dropping the safety chains he flipped the hitch latch. Then He cranked the trailer up as he looked at the barn and whispered, “Tomorrow my friend. That’s the day our dream starts.”
In the house he talked as if his wife was still there, “I’m home. I got a truck today and it’s a peace of shit. We’re going to have to strip it to the frame and rebuild every part. Just wanted you to know I’m chasing that dream.”
Jim then pulled two pot-pies from the freezer and put them in the oven. Then he got a beer from the fridge and went to the living room. Sitting in his chair he turned on the TV, and started thumbing through the channels.
Jim thought about how lonely the house was without Autum. Thinking he should get a dog or something, but he knew the truck was going to take up all his spare time. Then he drifted off to sleep until three AM. That’s when he smelt something burning. It was the pot-pies, so Jim just turned off the oven. Looking in the oven he mumbled, “Damn, looks like I made hockey pucks again. I need you Autum I can’t even cook a damn pot-pie. Hell I just miss you so much.”
Jim went to bed and fell into a deep sleep. Slipping into dream land he saw Autum in the kitchen. She looked at him and said, “You have the capacities to telepath messages through the vast unknown. I’m glad you listen to me and do that, I hear it all. Now I must tell you it’s time to move on. I will always be here listing to you, but you have to live your dream now. Don’t let it slip away.”
Then Jim heard a pounding sound that echoed through his dream. Autum faded away and Jim slowly awoke to the sound of knocking on his door. Jumping from his bed he grabbed his house coat. Peeking out the living room window he saw her. Fear came over him as he thought, “Oh shit! It’s that gal. Now what…”
Jim yelled, “Just a minute.” He ran to his room and put on some clothes and walked to the door. Pulling it open there she stood with her hair up in a bun, blue work shirt, blue jeans, and boots. Everything looked new like a construction worker on his first day of work.
Suzy blurted out, “What! You’re not ready? Our truck is ten minutes away.”
Stepping back Jim replied, “Come in and have a seat. I’ll get my boots.”
Jim went to his room, as Suzy had a seat on the couch. Jim picked up his boots from the side of the bed. That’s when it hit him. Our, she said, “Our truck!” Damn this must be the catch I was worrying about. Now what?
Walking out with his boots Jim sat in the chair across from the couch. Looking at Suzy he questioned, “I noticed you said our truck,”
She responded, “Did you look at the back of the check?”
Jim said, “No.”
She leaned forward, “Then you don’t know. On the back was a loan agreement to the bearer of the check.”
Jim tied his boot lace in a knot and sat straight up, “Loan agreement? I can’t pay that! Hell, the bank owns everything around here. The house, the land, the barn, and the tractor they own it all. It’s all I can do to keep this place now. I’m just one crop failure away from losing everything.”
Suzy smiled, “Then it’s our truck.”
Jim worked on the knot as he talked, “The only reason I used the check is this is my dream, and if I don’t chase it I’ll never get it.”
Suzy responded, “Me too, this is my dream, and I’m chasing it right now. You see when I was a little girl I use to sit in that truck with my grandpa. We would pretend we were driving somewhere, and he’d tell me stories. He’s gone now and the truck is all I got.”
Jim got his boot tied and stood up replying, “Then why didn’t you keep it instead of auctioning it?”
Suzy informed, “I couldn’t. It was in the will that everything must be sold, and the money be split between the heirs. Thing is I’m the only heir. Grandpa always talked about restoring it, but never got to it. Then there’s that guy Jack you were bidding against. He owns a wrecking-yard of old military stuff. He had been trying to buy the truck from my Grandpa for years. Jack just wanted it to sale parts off it. I knew if Jack got it. Soon all that would be left was the rusting skeleton of what it once was. I could never let that happen.”
Jim was stunned by her story, but how would this ownership work? He was snapped out of his thoughts by the raddling sound of a diesel engine. Jumping up Suzy yelled, “It’s here!”
Jim headed out the door with Suzy right behind. He waved at the driver and pointed to the barn. Then he went and slid the barn door open. The driver backed the trailer to the door. Then the driver got out and walked over to Jim. Suzy stood behind Jim as the driver explained, “The best I can do is hook a block to the back of the trailer. Then run the cable under the truck through the block, and then back up to the front bumper. That will get the truck off the trailer, but the front will still be hanging out the door. You and I both know it won’t roll, But once it’s on the ground my job is done.”
The truck skidded off the trailer the same way it went on. Jim signed the drivers invoice, and looked at the truck. Suzy questioned, “You have a plan to get it in there?”
Jim Responded, “Yep, but I need to make some coffee first. I had a bad night last night, and I need a jump start bad.”
Suzy Replied, “Mind if I join you?”
Jim smiled, “Why not. You jumped on my dream like a bum jumping on a train. You might as well enjoy the ride.”
Suzy replied, “Jim you and I both know when opportunity knocks. You have to answer the door or it’s gone. This is my dream and now that I’ve jumped on this train I’m holding on for dear life. I think you will find me an admirable opponent.
Inside Suzy asked, “What’s next Jim?”
Jim replied, “I guess we should get the truck in the barn so we can close the door. I’ve been thinking about that, and I think I’ll use the tractor. The best I could come up with is to pull it in with the tractor. There’s no door on the back of the barn, so I was thinking about pulling a board off the back of the barn. Then I could run a chain through the back and hook it up to the tractor. Then pull it in that way. I think I have enough chain to do that. Then I’ll spend the next three weeks disking and planting from dawn to dusk. ”
Suzy’s eyes lit up as she blurted, “But we just got started! Now you want to stop for three weeks. Can’t we just hire someone to drive the tractor for you?’
Jim chuckled, “I can’t afford that. I would have to get insurance, pay income tax, and somehow come up with payday money. I’ve only got Three hundred and sixty acers, and that just keeps my head above water. That’s not an option at this point in my life.”
Suzy snapped back, “You sound like my grandpa. He always had an excuse too. In the winter it was too cold. Then there was the planting time, and the harvest, or fix one of the tractors. It was always something, and where did that get him. Yep, that got him nowhere. The truck just sat out there until the tires rotted off the thing. I’m telling you Jim opportunity is knocking, and you need to jump on the train.”
Jim poured the coffee and spoke softly, “You just don’t know. It’s hard for me right now. I just lost my wife last fall. She was the strong one that kept me going. Autum was everything to me. She encouraged me in everything. No matter what it was she always gave me support, confidence, and hope in everything I did. Now that is gone. I guess after we get the truck in the barn. We can spray the wheels and hubs down with penetrating oil. They will need to soak for a time anyway.”
Suzy sipped her coffee quietly. Then she whispered, “Sorry Jim I didn’t know.”
Jim responded, “Its ok Suzy. I was chasing this dream hard, and I knew there was going to be a catch for using that check. Like you I jumped on that train not knowing where it was going. Now I’m just along for the ride, and have no control. We’re just going to half to work this out.”
They spent the rest of the day getting the truck in the barn, and soaking the lug nuts and hubs down with penetrating oil. Then Jim waved as Suzy got into her little Neon and headed out.
Jim thought about Suzy, Little read headed firecracker is what she is. She never gives up on anything. Then it hit Jim that was the way Autum was. Always pushing him to be better, and do it now not later.
The driver insisted, “Let me check on that.” Then he headed for the house.
Jim went to his truck, and sat with the window down. Soon the truck driver came back out, and walked over to Jim’s truck. Looking at Jim he commented, “It all looks good. They gave me the delivery address and told me they already got confirmation on the check. See you tomorrow.” Then he walked back to the truck, and started chaining the truck down.
Jim sat in his truck for a few. Them he pulled out heading home. It did worry him that he just spent five grand and had nothing to show for it. He thought about his wife Autum and what she would say about this kind of thing. Don’t pay for it until you have it in hand.
Well he didn’t have it in hand, but it was the best he could do. Then there was the ten thousand from the check. What was that? He was starting to feel like he just stepped into The Twilight Zone. He knew there might be a catch, but what could it be. He remembered Autum saying, You have to chase your dreams. No matter how hard it gets or how far you have to go. Never give up on a dream!
This was Jim’s dream and had been all his life. It goes back to when he was a kid playing with army men in the sandbox. With Autum gone, now was the time to chase that dream, and this was the start of it. Jim pulled in his driveway, and backed the trailer next to the barn. Dropping the safety chains he flipped the hitch latch. Then He cranked the trailer up as he looked at the barn and whispered, “Tomorrow my friend. That’s the day our dream starts.”
In the house he talked as if his wife was still there, “I’m home. I got a truck today and it’s a peace of shit. We’re going to have to strip it to the frame and rebuild every part. Just wanted you to know I’m chasing that dream.”
Jim then pulled two pot-pies from the freezer and put them in the oven. Then he got a beer from the fridge and went to the living room. Sitting in his chair he turned on the TV, and started thumbing through the channels.
Jim thought about how lonely the house was without Autum. Thinking he should get a dog or something, but he knew the truck was going to take up all his spare time. Then he drifted off to sleep until three AM. That’s when he smelt something burning. It was the pot-pies, so Jim just turned off the oven. Looking in the oven he mumbled, “Damn, looks like I made hockey pucks again. I need you Autum I can’t even cook a damn pot-pie. Hell I just miss you so much.”
Jim went to bed and fell into a deep sleep. Slipping into dream land he saw Autum in the kitchen. She looked at him and said, “You have the capacities to telepath messages through the vast unknown. I’m glad you listen to me and do that, I hear it all. Now I must tell you it’s time to move on. I will always be here listing to you, but you have to live your dream now. Don’t let it slip away.”
Then Jim heard a pounding sound that echoed through his dream. Autum faded away and Jim slowly awoke to the sound of knocking on his door. Jumping from his bed he grabbed his house coat. Peeking out the living room window he saw her. Fear came over him as he thought, “Oh shit! It’s that gal. Now what…”
Jim yelled, “Just a minute.” He ran to his room and put on some clothes and walked to the door. Pulling it open there she stood with her hair up in a bun, blue work shirt, blue jeans, and boots. Everything looked new like a construction worker on his first day of work.
Suzy blurted out, “What! You’re not ready? Our truck is ten minutes away.”
Stepping back Jim replied, “Come in and have a seat. I’ll get my boots.”
Jim went to his room, as Suzy had a seat on the couch. Jim picked up his boots from the side of the bed. That’s when it hit him. Our, she said, “Our truck!” Damn this must be the catch I was worrying about. Now what?
Walking out with his boots Jim sat in the chair across from the couch. Looking at Suzy he questioned, “I noticed you said our truck,”
She responded, “Did you look at the back of the check?”
Jim said, “No.”
She leaned forward, “Then you don’t know. On the back was a loan agreement to the bearer of the check.”
Jim tied his boot lace in a knot and sat straight up, “Loan agreement? I can’t pay that! Hell, the bank owns everything around here. The house, the land, the barn, and the tractor they own it all. It’s all I can do to keep this place now. I’m just one crop failure away from losing everything.”
Suzy smiled, “Then it’s our truck.”
Jim worked on the knot as he talked, “The only reason I used the check is this is my dream, and if I don’t chase it I’ll never get it.”
Suzy responded, “Me too, this is my dream, and I’m chasing it right now. You see when I was a little girl I use to sit in that truck with my grandpa. We would pretend we were driving somewhere, and he’d tell me stories. He’s gone now and the truck is all I got.”
Jim got his boot tied and stood up replying, “Then why didn’t you keep it instead of auctioning it?”
Suzy informed, “I couldn’t. It was in the will that everything must be sold, and the money be split between the heirs. Thing is I’m the only heir. Grandpa always talked about restoring it, but never got to it. Then there’s that guy Jack you were bidding against. He owns a wrecking-yard of old military stuff. He had been trying to buy the truck from my Grandpa for years. Jack just wanted it to sale parts off it. I knew if Jack got it. Soon all that would be left was the rusting skeleton of what it once was. I could never let that happen.”
Jim was stunned by her story, but how would this ownership work? He was snapped out of his thoughts by the raddling sound of a diesel engine. Jumping up Suzy yelled, “It’s here!”
Jim headed out the door with Suzy right behind. He waved at the driver and pointed to the barn. Then he went and slid the barn door open. The driver backed the trailer to the door. Then the driver got out and walked over to Jim. Suzy stood behind Jim as the driver explained, “The best I can do is hook a block to the back of the trailer. Then run the cable under the truck through the block, and then back up to the front bumper. That will get the truck off the trailer, but the front will still be hanging out the door. You and I both know it won’t roll, But once it’s on the ground my job is done.”
The truck skidded off the trailer the same way it went on. Jim signed the drivers invoice, and looked at the truck. Suzy questioned, “You have a plan to get it in there?”
Jim Responded, “Yep, but I need to make some coffee first. I had a bad night last night, and I need a jump start bad.”
Suzy Replied, “Mind if I join you?”
Jim smiled, “Why not. You jumped on my dream like a bum jumping on a train. You might as well enjoy the ride.”
Suzy replied, “Jim you and I both know when opportunity knocks. You have to answer the door or it’s gone. This is my dream and now that I’ve jumped on this train I’m holding on for dear life. I think you will find me an admirable opponent.
Inside Suzy asked, “What’s next Jim?”
Jim replied, “I guess we should get the truck in the barn so we can close the door. I’ve been thinking about that, and I think I’ll use the tractor. The best I could come up with is to pull it in with the tractor. There’s no door on the back of the barn, so I was thinking about pulling a board off the back of the barn. Then I could run a chain through the back and hook it up to the tractor. Then pull it in that way. I think I have enough chain to do that. Then I’ll spend the next three weeks disking and planting from dawn to dusk. ”
Suzy’s eyes lit up as she blurted, “But we just got started! Now you want to stop for three weeks. Can’t we just hire someone to drive the tractor for you?’
Jim chuckled, “I can’t afford that. I would have to get insurance, pay income tax, and somehow come up with payday money. I’ve only got Three hundred and sixty acers, and that just keeps my head above water. That’s not an option at this point in my life.”
Suzy snapped back, “You sound like my grandpa. He always had an excuse too. In the winter it was too cold. Then there was the planting time, and the harvest, or fix one of the tractors. It was always something, and where did that get him. Yep, that got him nowhere. The truck just sat out there until the tires rotted off the thing. I’m telling you Jim opportunity is knocking, and you need to jump on the train.”
Jim poured the coffee and spoke softly, “You just don’t know. It’s hard for me right now. I just lost my wife last fall. She was the strong one that kept me going. Autum was everything to me. She encouraged me in everything. No matter what it was she always gave me support, confidence, and hope in everything I did. Now that is gone. I guess after we get the truck in the barn. We can spray the wheels and hubs down with penetrating oil. They will need to soak for a time anyway.”
Suzy sipped her coffee quietly. Then she whispered, “Sorry Jim I didn’t know.”
Jim responded, “Its ok Suzy. I was chasing this dream hard, and I knew there was going to be a catch for using that check. Like you I jumped on that train not knowing where it was going. Now I’m just along for the ride, and have no control. We’re just going to half to work this out.”
They spent the rest of the day getting the truck in the barn, and soaking the lug nuts and hubs down with penetrating oil. Then Jim waved as Suzy got into her little Neon and headed out.
Jim thought about Suzy, Little read headed firecracker is what she is. She never gives up on anything. Then it hit Jim that was the way Autum was. Always pushing him to be better, and do it now not later.
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Two – The Hired Hand
That night as Jim slept Autum came to him in a dream. “Jim! You just had to tell Suzy your point of view. I don't mean to make you frown, but you just need to slow down and find comfort from inside. I’m here for you, but she can help you now.”
Then Jim found himself pounding on the alarm clock. He saw five thirty through the blur, and headed to the kitchen. He pulled out his thermos and started a pot of coffee. Then he jumped in the shower, and got dressed. With his to-go cup in one hand and his thermos in the other he headed to the tractor. Then he hooked up the plow, and started his day.
An hour and half away Suzy was on her own mission. She stopped at the parts store and got a case of penetrating oil. The clerk argued with her about needing that much, but Suzy had her mind made up. There was nothing the clerk could ever say that would change her mind. Then it was off to the temp agency. What a waste of time she thought as she walked out the door. Then she was off to her next stop.
At the feed and seed store just fifteen minutes from the farm. She talked to Bruce Anderson about a driver for the tractor. He gave her Steve’s number. Then told her this was the busy time of the year, and he might not be available.
She then went down the street to a little place called The Cow Girl. She got ham and cheese sandwiches, chips, and two Cokes. At the car she put the lunch in a basket on the passenger seat. Then she headed to the farm.
At the farm she got the penetrating oil from the trunk of the car, and headed to the barn. Setting the oil on the ground she pushed the door open enough to get in. Looking up she saw someone sitting in the truck. She stared trying to make them out, but with the broken windshield there was no way to tell. Reaching her arm in the door she flipped on the light. Then they vanished as if they were never there.
Suzy set the oil by the truck, and stepped up on the running board. Looking in the cab she saw nothing. She felt strange, but tried to shake it off.
Then she went back out and got the basket, and walked out into the field. She could see Jim down the field coming around on another lap.
Looking up ahead of him Jim could see something bright yellow in the field. As he got closer he could see it was Suzy wearing a bright yellow dress. She was all dolled up like when he first saw her. Slowing down Jim brought the tractor to a stop. Jim opened the door as she yelled, “Lunch!”
Jim shutdown the tractor and climbed down from his high perch. On the ground he smiled, “Suzy you’re to kind, but I don’t have time to stop. If the tractor isn’t going around the field I’m not making money, and believe me I need every penny.”
She smiled back and replied, “I understand about money. I was an accountant until my grandpa passed away. There was a time when I was in a hurry just like you. Then there was a day when I knew I just had to do what was best for me. No more hurrying around trying to do everything. I just had to do what I wanted to do. This is what I want to do.
I might have found a driver for the tractor. I’ll pay all the expenses whatever the cost. Don’t worry I’ll pay it all. Then we can spend the next week working out a plan. If we can’t, then I’ll give you your five grand and take the truck.”
Jim was stunned and didn’t say a word he just look at her as she handed him a sandwich and bag of chips. Pulling a Coke from the basket she added, “I hope Coke is ok. Now take your lunch and climb back up on that thing. You can eat as you drive. I don’t want you losing any more time.”
Then she picked up her basket with her lunch and headed for the car. Jim just stood there watching her walking away. He thought, Well I screwed that up pretty good. What do I do now?
Back up in the tractor Jim cried out, “Oh Autum what do I do now? I just keep screwing things up.”
Jim pushed the cd in the player, slipped on his head phones, and started the tractor for another lap. Taking a bite of the sandwich Jim slipped into his thoughts of what was happening. He remembered Autum saying, “You have to chase your dreams. No matter how hard it gets or how far you have to go. Never give up on a dream!”
Jim thought, Suzy’s right this is my one shot. If I don’t grab it then I might never get another chance.
Rounding the end of the field Jim was headed back to the barn. Getting close he could see Suzy’s little car was still parked by the house. Excitement filled Jim as he yelled, “Yes!”
In her car Suzy was thinking what her grandpa had once told her. “When chasing a dream it’s all or nothing, it’s like a drag racer, you have to push the gas pedal to the floor and go for it. If the pedal isn’t on the floor you’re not racing.”
Jim stopped the tractor and shut it down. Opening the door he jumped to the ground almost falling on his face. Then he ran across the field and by the barn. He slowed as he got close to Suzy’s car. She stepped from the car as Jim put his hands on his knees and gasped for air.
Taking a big breath Jim hissed, “You were right.”
Suzy looked strange at Jim as she commented, “Jim you sound like a sixty year old man.”
Catching his breath Jim responded, “I’m only thirty one. At least I don’t look like an eighteen year old girl.”
Suzy snapped back, “I’m twenty seven mind you. I’m college educated with an accounting degree. I managed a crop dusting company, a Five thousand acre wheat farm, and a propane delivery company.”
Jim replied, “Sorry I dint mean it that way. You were right I’ve been following not chasing it. It’s time to stop looking at it and start making it.”
Inside Suzy was jumping up and down yelling yes! Outward she whispered, “Thank you I think.”
Jim pulled his phone from his pocket and questioned, “You got that guy’s number. I’ll give him a call. That is if you can afford it for sure. You know it’s going to cost over a hundred a day. That will be well over two thousand.”
Suzy just smiled and pulled the card with the number from her pocket, and handed it to Jim. Jim called the number, “Is Steve there? I heard you might be free to do some disking and planting. I have three hundred acres. You want fifteen an hour?” Jim looked at Suzy. She nodded for approval, so Jim gave him directions to the farm. Ending the call Jim affirmed, “He will be here at six tomorrow morning.”
Suzy announced, “I have to go.”
Jim Exclaimed, “Wait! I thought we could work on a plan for the truck.”
Suzy responded, “I don’t have time. I have to take out an insurance policy, get a W-4 form, and an employment contract. You know what if he falls off the tractor and it runs him over? We would be ****ed!”
Jim just stared as she jumped in her car and drove off. Thinking, “You mean I’d be ****ed. Well that went nothing like I thought it would.”
Going in the house Jim called out, “Autum, I quit early today. I must be out of my mind. It’s this hot little redhead. She’s got me all mixed up in the head. I thought chasing this dream would help me not miss you so much. Well it’s not working. I’m just getting more mixed up than ever. Suzy is like you too. She knows what she wants and how to do it, and she’s stubborn as a mule too.”
Jim poured some coffee into his cup and put it in the microwave. After it heated he took his cup and went to his chair. Taking a sip he thought about the truck, “The first thing we should do is block it up and get the wheels off. It has split rims that are illegal now, so I can’t restore them. Ten tires at four hundred each is four grand. I’ll need rims Jim thought as he looked them up on his phone, and found they started at $130 each. That’s over five grand just to get tires on this thing.
The scope of this project was starting to become overwhelming. Jim drifted off to sleep in his thoughts. Then he was transported to a beach, where he was watching a Diamond T 6x6 driving off a landing craft onto the beach.
Next thing he knew gun shots and explosions where happening all around him. Then he heard a voice say we have to move, this area’s too hot. Then everything went to a blur and the explosions sounded like pounding echoing in his head. Slowly Jim opened his eyes. It was Suzy pounding at the door and yelling his name. Opening the door Suzy smiled and declared, “You look like crap. Have you been up all night?”
Jim confessed, “No, I fell asleep in the chair. Just had a bad night is all.”
Suzy ordered, “You get in the shower, and put some clean clothes on. I’ll get things ready for the hired hand.”
Jim didn’t say a word. He just staggered down the hall. Suzy laid out the W-4 form, and employment contract on the dining room table. Looking around she saw pictures of Jim and Autum on the wall. Looking at one of them standing in front of the tractor when it was new she thought, Damn, he married Barbie blond hair and all. Then over by the end of the couch was a basket with needle work in it. Suzy’s head started to spin. She was thinking. Oh no look at this place it’s like she’s still here. It has her touch on everything. Jim hasn’t changed a thing. That’s so sad.
Then there was a knock at the door. It was Steve, so Suzy had him do the paper work. By the time Steve was done Jim had appeared looking much better. Jim put out his hand and announced, “Pleased to meet you Steve. You ready to start?’
Steve gave Jim a firm shake and replied, “Sure.”
Jim took Steve out to get him started, and Suzy picked up the paper work and looked it over. With everything looking good she put the papers in a folder. Then she looked over at the couch. There sat Autum with an embroidery hoop staring at her as she smiled. A strange freaky feeling came over Suzy as she watched the image fade away. Chills ran up Suzy’s spine as she tried to comprehend what just happened.
Shaking her head she tried to convince herself it wasn’t real. Heading to the door she could smell perfume, but she couldn’t determine what kind it was. By now Suzy couldn’t wait to get out of the house. She slipped out the front door, and eased down the porch steps.
Jim came around the corner of the barn to see Suzy wandering around in a daze. As he got close he could see she was staring at the house, as she slowly moved side to side. Seeing Jim walking up Suzy blurted out, “Your wife’s in there! I saw her!”
Jim stepped next to her and whispered, “I know. I talk to her all the time.”
“No!” Suzy responded, “You don’t understand I saw her, I smelled her, and I felt her. She is in that house!”
Jim tried to comfort Suzy’s distress as he continued, “It’s not just the house. I see her everywhere, in the barn, at the mailbox, even out here. Don’t worry she won’t hurt you. In fact she likes you.”
With a shaky voice Suzy responded, “Likes me! What the hell are you talking about? How do you know she likes me?”
Jim smiled as he replied, “Autum told me.” Then Grabbing Suzy’s hand he informed “Let me show you something.”
When Jim touched her a tingling rushed through her entire body. Then a strange calmness came over her and she felt safe. Suzy’s mind raced trying to take in what was happening, but it didn’t matter she had no control. Jim led her back into the house.
That night as Jim slept Autum came to him in a dream. “Jim! You just had to tell Suzy your point of view. I don't mean to make you frown, but you just need to slow down and find comfort from inside. I’m here for you, but she can help you now.”
Then Jim found himself pounding on the alarm clock. He saw five thirty through the blur, and headed to the kitchen. He pulled out his thermos and started a pot of coffee. Then he jumped in the shower, and got dressed. With his to-go cup in one hand and his thermos in the other he headed to the tractor. Then he hooked up the plow, and started his day.
An hour and half away Suzy was on her own mission. She stopped at the parts store and got a case of penetrating oil. The clerk argued with her about needing that much, but Suzy had her mind made up. There was nothing the clerk could ever say that would change her mind. Then it was off to the temp agency. What a waste of time she thought as she walked out the door. Then she was off to her next stop.
At the feed and seed store just fifteen minutes from the farm. She talked to Bruce Anderson about a driver for the tractor. He gave her Steve’s number. Then told her this was the busy time of the year, and he might not be available.
She then went down the street to a little place called The Cow Girl. She got ham and cheese sandwiches, chips, and two Cokes. At the car she put the lunch in a basket on the passenger seat. Then she headed to the farm.
At the farm she got the penetrating oil from the trunk of the car, and headed to the barn. Setting the oil on the ground she pushed the door open enough to get in. Looking up she saw someone sitting in the truck. She stared trying to make them out, but with the broken windshield there was no way to tell. Reaching her arm in the door she flipped on the light. Then they vanished as if they were never there.
Suzy set the oil by the truck, and stepped up on the running board. Looking in the cab she saw nothing. She felt strange, but tried to shake it off.
Then she went back out and got the basket, and walked out into the field. She could see Jim down the field coming around on another lap.
Looking up ahead of him Jim could see something bright yellow in the field. As he got closer he could see it was Suzy wearing a bright yellow dress. She was all dolled up like when he first saw her. Slowing down Jim brought the tractor to a stop. Jim opened the door as she yelled, “Lunch!”
Jim shutdown the tractor and climbed down from his high perch. On the ground he smiled, “Suzy you’re to kind, but I don’t have time to stop. If the tractor isn’t going around the field I’m not making money, and believe me I need every penny.”
She smiled back and replied, “I understand about money. I was an accountant until my grandpa passed away. There was a time when I was in a hurry just like you. Then there was a day when I knew I just had to do what was best for me. No more hurrying around trying to do everything. I just had to do what I wanted to do. This is what I want to do.
I might have found a driver for the tractor. I’ll pay all the expenses whatever the cost. Don’t worry I’ll pay it all. Then we can spend the next week working out a plan. If we can’t, then I’ll give you your five grand and take the truck.”
Jim was stunned and didn’t say a word he just look at her as she handed him a sandwich and bag of chips. Pulling a Coke from the basket she added, “I hope Coke is ok. Now take your lunch and climb back up on that thing. You can eat as you drive. I don’t want you losing any more time.”
Then she picked up her basket with her lunch and headed for the car. Jim just stood there watching her walking away. He thought, Well I screwed that up pretty good. What do I do now?
Back up in the tractor Jim cried out, “Oh Autum what do I do now? I just keep screwing things up.”
Jim pushed the cd in the player, slipped on his head phones, and started the tractor for another lap. Taking a bite of the sandwich Jim slipped into his thoughts of what was happening. He remembered Autum saying, “You have to chase your dreams. No matter how hard it gets or how far you have to go. Never give up on a dream!”
Jim thought, Suzy’s right this is my one shot. If I don’t grab it then I might never get another chance.
Rounding the end of the field Jim was headed back to the barn. Getting close he could see Suzy’s little car was still parked by the house. Excitement filled Jim as he yelled, “Yes!”
In her car Suzy was thinking what her grandpa had once told her. “When chasing a dream it’s all or nothing, it’s like a drag racer, you have to push the gas pedal to the floor and go for it. If the pedal isn’t on the floor you’re not racing.”
Jim stopped the tractor and shut it down. Opening the door he jumped to the ground almost falling on his face. Then he ran across the field and by the barn. He slowed as he got close to Suzy’s car. She stepped from the car as Jim put his hands on his knees and gasped for air.
Taking a big breath Jim hissed, “You were right.”
Suzy looked strange at Jim as she commented, “Jim you sound like a sixty year old man.”
Catching his breath Jim responded, “I’m only thirty one. At least I don’t look like an eighteen year old girl.”
Suzy snapped back, “I’m twenty seven mind you. I’m college educated with an accounting degree. I managed a crop dusting company, a Five thousand acre wheat farm, and a propane delivery company.”
Jim replied, “Sorry I dint mean it that way. You were right I’ve been following not chasing it. It’s time to stop looking at it and start making it.”
Inside Suzy was jumping up and down yelling yes! Outward she whispered, “Thank you I think.”
Jim pulled his phone from his pocket and questioned, “You got that guy’s number. I’ll give him a call. That is if you can afford it for sure. You know it’s going to cost over a hundred a day. That will be well over two thousand.”
Suzy just smiled and pulled the card with the number from her pocket, and handed it to Jim. Jim called the number, “Is Steve there? I heard you might be free to do some disking and planting. I have three hundred acres. You want fifteen an hour?” Jim looked at Suzy. She nodded for approval, so Jim gave him directions to the farm. Ending the call Jim affirmed, “He will be here at six tomorrow morning.”
Suzy announced, “I have to go.”
Jim Exclaimed, “Wait! I thought we could work on a plan for the truck.”
Suzy responded, “I don’t have time. I have to take out an insurance policy, get a W-4 form, and an employment contract. You know what if he falls off the tractor and it runs him over? We would be ****ed!”
Jim just stared as she jumped in her car and drove off. Thinking, “You mean I’d be ****ed. Well that went nothing like I thought it would.”
Going in the house Jim called out, “Autum, I quit early today. I must be out of my mind. It’s this hot little redhead. She’s got me all mixed up in the head. I thought chasing this dream would help me not miss you so much. Well it’s not working. I’m just getting more mixed up than ever. Suzy is like you too. She knows what she wants and how to do it, and she’s stubborn as a mule too.”
Jim poured some coffee into his cup and put it in the microwave. After it heated he took his cup and went to his chair. Taking a sip he thought about the truck, “The first thing we should do is block it up and get the wheels off. It has split rims that are illegal now, so I can’t restore them. Ten tires at four hundred each is four grand. I’ll need rims Jim thought as he looked them up on his phone, and found they started at $130 each. That’s over five grand just to get tires on this thing.
The scope of this project was starting to become overwhelming. Jim drifted off to sleep in his thoughts. Then he was transported to a beach, where he was watching a Diamond T 6x6 driving off a landing craft onto the beach.
Next thing he knew gun shots and explosions where happening all around him. Then he heard a voice say we have to move, this area’s too hot. Then everything went to a blur and the explosions sounded like pounding echoing in his head. Slowly Jim opened his eyes. It was Suzy pounding at the door and yelling his name. Opening the door Suzy smiled and declared, “You look like crap. Have you been up all night?”
Jim confessed, “No, I fell asleep in the chair. Just had a bad night is all.”
Suzy ordered, “You get in the shower, and put some clean clothes on. I’ll get things ready for the hired hand.”
Jim didn’t say a word. He just staggered down the hall. Suzy laid out the W-4 form, and employment contract on the dining room table. Looking around she saw pictures of Jim and Autum on the wall. Looking at one of them standing in front of the tractor when it was new she thought, Damn, he married Barbie blond hair and all. Then over by the end of the couch was a basket with needle work in it. Suzy’s head started to spin. She was thinking. Oh no look at this place it’s like she’s still here. It has her touch on everything. Jim hasn’t changed a thing. That’s so sad.
Then there was a knock at the door. It was Steve, so Suzy had him do the paper work. By the time Steve was done Jim had appeared looking much better. Jim put out his hand and announced, “Pleased to meet you Steve. You ready to start?’
Steve gave Jim a firm shake and replied, “Sure.”
Jim took Steve out to get him started, and Suzy picked up the paper work and looked it over. With everything looking good she put the papers in a folder. Then she looked over at the couch. There sat Autum with an embroidery hoop staring at her as she smiled. A strange freaky feeling came over Suzy as she watched the image fade away. Chills ran up Suzy’s spine as she tried to comprehend what just happened.
Shaking her head she tried to convince herself it wasn’t real. Heading to the door she could smell perfume, but she couldn’t determine what kind it was. By now Suzy couldn’t wait to get out of the house. She slipped out the front door, and eased down the porch steps.
Jim came around the corner of the barn to see Suzy wandering around in a daze. As he got close he could see she was staring at the house, as she slowly moved side to side. Seeing Jim walking up Suzy blurted out, “Your wife’s in there! I saw her!”
Jim stepped next to her and whispered, “I know. I talk to her all the time.”
“No!” Suzy responded, “You don’t understand I saw her, I smelled her, and I felt her. She is in that house!”
Jim tried to comfort Suzy’s distress as he continued, “It’s not just the house. I see her everywhere, in the barn, at the mailbox, even out here. Don’t worry she won’t hurt you. In fact she likes you.”
With a shaky voice Suzy responded, “Likes me! What the hell are you talking about? How do you know she likes me?”
Jim smiled as he replied, “Autum told me.” Then Grabbing Suzy’s hand he informed “Let me show you something.”
When Jim touched her a tingling rushed through her entire body. Then a strange calmness came over her and she felt safe. Suzy’s mind raced trying to take in what was happening, but it didn’t matter she had no control. Jim led her back into the house.
gonewacky
Veteran Member
In the house Jim picked up Autum’s embroidery basket by the couch. Then he took it down the hall to the closet. Setting the basket on a shelf he closed the closet door. Then he looked at Suzy and pointed out, “You saw me put the basket in there, right.”
Suzy just nodded as Jim pulled her back down the hall. In the living room Jim instructed, “Look by the couch.”
A strange feeling came over Suzy as she saw the basket was there. It was as if it was never touched. Suzy thought, How can that be I saw Jim put it in the closet.
Jim explained, “All of her things are just as they were the day she died. She won’t let me change anything. She keeps telling me it’s to keep me safe.”
Suzy questioned, “Safe from what?”
Jim smiled, “That’s a story for another time. You just have to except Autum and everything will be fine. You can talk to her. Just don’t get freaked out when she answers you.”
Suzy became angry and insisted, “No! I want to hear it now. This is starting to piss me off!”
Jim’s eyes opened wide as he started, “It’s a curse on my family. It all started back in the 1870’s. My great great grandfather Earl homesteaded here. Times where hard and a lot of homesteaders gave up and sold their land and moved to town or left. He traded and got the land around him for next to nothing. He was a cattle man and built up a big heard. By the time his sons were 10 and 12 he had over 300 head, and was one of the richest men around here.
My great great grandmother Edna was a Witch. I don’t mean a bitch. She was a real Witch casting spells and incantations. They say that was why my great great grandfather was so successful. The day George turned 13 Earl took the wagon and went to town. He got drunk and came home with a saloon girl, and tried to take her to bed with Edna. At that point Edna became enraged, and she chased the saloon girl.
My great grandfather Charles watched from the top of the stairs, as he saw Edna stab the saloon girl in the eye. The saloon girl collapsed to the floor. Charles ran back to his bed and covered up his head. He heard strange things happening downstairs, but he never moved. Then he heard a gurgling sound and Edna cry-out, “I curse you and all your ancestors that you may never have happiness in love.”
Then he heard his dad yell out, “Edna no!” Charles knew his father was dead, and hid under the covers until daylight. Then he went down stairs to find the house looking like nothing happened. Peeking in the kitchen Charles saw his mother at the stove. Looking up Edna insisted, “You need to go help George milk the cow, and unhitch the team. The team came back with the wagon last night. Who knows where your father went. Now go. I’ll have breakfast ready when you’re done.”
A few days later the saloon burnt to the ground, and they never heard from their father again.
It was when George was 19 that Edna sent him to sale some cattle. George hired two men to help him drive about 30 head to market. That was the last time anyone ever saw him.
This enraged Edna and she demanded that Charles find a wife. With that Charles married 15 year old Cora at the age of 17. Edna treated Cora like a slave, and made her do everything for her. Cora’s life had turned into a living hell. Then Cora got pregnant and died giving birth to my grandfather Roy. Enda laughed at Cora as she died. Making Charles hate her, and forever seek revenge.
Charles refused to seek another wife, and made Edna care for Roy. Edna now in her fifties had a tuff time caring for Roy, but he was all she had to carry on the curse. When Roy was 9 or 10 Edna disappeared without a trace. Roy married my grandmother Emma. Her first child was Clara then two years later she had my dad John. When John was 15 Clara left home, and was never heard from again. When John was 19 his mother Emma was found in the kitchen with a knife stuck in her eye socket. His dad was found in the barn hanging from the rafters. No-one knows for sure what happened.
Then at 22 my dad married Margaret 19 at the time. When she was 20 she had me, and I grew up on the farm. That is until that dreaded day when I was 14. It was early spring, and my dad was out plowing the field. I was walking home from the school-bus. I saw my mom on the porch shaking out a rug, and then go back in the house.
When I went into the house I saw my mom on the kitchen floor. She had a kitchen knife sticking out of her eye socket. They charged my dad with murder and sent him to prison. Even though I testified that I saw him on the tractor out in the field.
I was sent to live with our neighbors the Carlson’s. In return they farmed our land to pay the taxes and my keep. When I was 16 my dad was stabbed and killed in prison.
Then at 19 I graduated high school, and took over the farm. Mr. Carlson had farmed wheat, but dad had farmed barley for feed. I had no combine to harvest wheat. I had a swather for cutting, a baler, a harrow bed to pick up the bales, and a tractor.
What I had was lots of different equipment to have things go wrong, and go wrong it did.”
Suzy could smell the perfume again as she heard Jim repeating, “Suzy, Suzy are you OK?”
Opening her eyes she was laying on the dining room floor looking at Jim. Suzy mumbled, “What happened?”
Jim replied, “I don’t know what happened. I just came in and found you on the floor with the perfume bottle knocked over.”
Suzy was trying to comprehend what had just happened, was it all a dream, was it real, or something else? She just sat there looking at Jim wide eyed.
Jim acknowledged, “You have a big red spot on your head, and it looks like a lump is starting to form. I think I should take you into the clinic to get it checked out. He took her hand, pulled her to her feet, and walked her to his truck.
Suzy felt strange as Jim walked her. Her hart pounded hard and her body tingled, as she thought, Am I falling for Jim or is it the bump on my head doing this to me?
Jim helped her up into the truck, and shut the door. Climbing in the driver seat Jim started the old truck and slipped it into gear. With a squeak and growl the old truck rolled forward, and he was off for the clinic.
Jim looked at Suzy and smiled as he noted the lump getting bigger. To keep her calm Jim talked to her about things around them on the road. That barn over there is over a hundred years old. This curve up here is Connors corner. Back when this was a dirt road he made people go around his corn field to get to town. Ever since then it’s been known as Connors corner. They were now heading down the hill into town.
At the clinic Jim helped her from the truck, and walked her in. Inside the nurse saw Jim and Suzy and went right over to help walk her in.
Jim announced, “Hi Pam. Suzy hit her had.”
Pam took Suzy’s arm and helped her to a chair. Sitting her down she commented, “That is quit a bump on your head.” Then she questioned, “How did that happen?”
Suzy responded, “I fell down and hit my head.”
Pam informed, “Let me get an icepack for that, and see if I can get you in to see the Doctor.”
Pam quickly returned with the icepack and advised, “Here hold this on your head, and come with me.”
Looking at Jim Pam commented, “Have a seat Jim this shouldn’t take long.”
With that she led Suzy through a door. In the treatment room Pam questioned, “What are you doing with that guy? Do you know about his family? All the women die from strange things.”
Before Suzy could answer the doctor came in. standing next to Suzy he pulled a little flashlight from his pocket and shined it in her eyes as he questioned, “Did you lose consciousness?”
“I think so,” Suzy replied
“I assume you don’t know how long?” The doctor questioned.
Suzy hypothesized, “It happened right after Jim went out to the field, and I didn’t come to until he got back. I would guess about 15 minutes.”
“Blurred vision?” The doctor questioned.
“No,” Suzy replied
Lifting up the icepack and looking at the lump on her head the doctor commented, “I’m sure you have a concussion. I think this is going to need a cat-scan.”
Looking at Pam he instructed, “Call over to the hospital in Lambert and tell them we’re sending her over.”
In the waiting room Jim was getting impatient, he needed to know something. Then Pam came out and told Jim, “The Doctor is sending Suzy over to the hospital in Lambert. You will half to go there to see if they find anything.”
Looking out the window Jim saw the ambulance backing up alongside the clinic. Seeing the look on Jim’s face Pam assured, “She’ll be fine Jim. This is just transport to the hospital, so they can do some tests. I would suggest… Well you know. Everyone knows what happens to Hanson women.”
Jim snapped back, “It’s not like that! Pam!”
Then he headed for the door. In his truck he followed the ambulance to the hospital. He parked the truck and went inside to wait. Jim sat in the E.R. waiting room for about an hour and a half. Then a doctor came in and announced, “Jim Hanson.”
Jim stood up and the doctor walked over and insisted, “I think she’s going to be fine. All of the test we did look fine, but she has a concussion. I wanted to keep her overnight, but she insisted you would stay with her. She needs you to wake her up every two hours. You need to make sure she is alert before you let her go back to sleep. If she won’t wake or seams disoriented call 911 or get her back in here right away. Think you can do that?”
“Sure,” Jim replied.
The doctor insisted, “Then drive around to the entrance, and we’ll bring her out.”
Jim nodded and headed for the door.
In the truck he thought about the curse, and wondered if he was getting to close to Suzy. Was this all happening because of him? “I half to tell her,” Jim told himself.
Jim pulled the truck up in front of the door. Soon a nurse came out pushing a wheelchair with Suzy. She helped Suzy in the truck and shut the door.
Jim’s heart pounded with anticipation as he thought of telling Suzy about his history.
Before he could get out a word Suzy blurted out, “You’re going to half to spend the night at my place. I don’t think I’m ready to go back to yours yet.”
“That’s what I wanted to talk to you about,” Jim replied.
Suzy snapped back, “Don’t say a word! Now is not the time. Just go out to Walnut and hang a right. Then go down to 35th and turn left. It’s the third house on the right.”
Suzy just nodded as Jim pulled her back down the hall. In the living room Jim instructed, “Look by the couch.”
A strange feeling came over Suzy as she saw the basket was there. It was as if it was never touched. Suzy thought, How can that be I saw Jim put it in the closet.
Jim explained, “All of her things are just as they were the day she died. She won’t let me change anything. She keeps telling me it’s to keep me safe.”
Suzy questioned, “Safe from what?”
Jim smiled, “That’s a story for another time. You just have to except Autum and everything will be fine. You can talk to her. Just don’t get freaked out when she answers you.”
Suzy became angry and insisted, “No! I want to hear it now. This is starting to piss me off!”
Jim’s eyes opened wide as he started, “It’s a curse on my family. It all started back in the 1870’s. My great great grandfather Earl homesteaded here. Times where hard and a lot of homesteaders gave up and sold their land and moved to town or left. He traded and got the land around him for next to nothing. He was a cattle man and built up a big heard. By the time his sons were 10 and 12 he had over 300 head, and was one of the richest men around here.
My great great grandmother Edna was a Witch. I don’t mean a bitch. She was a real Witch casting spells and incantations. They say that was why my great great grandfather was so successful. The day George turned 13 Earl took the wagon and went to town. He got drunk and came home with a saloon girl, and tried to take her to bed with Edna. At that point Edna became enraged, and she chased the saloon girl.
My great grandfather Charles watched from the top of the stairs, as he saw Edna stab the saloon girl in the eye. The saloon girl collapsed to the floor. Charles ran back to his bed and covered up his head. He heard strange things happening downstairs, but he never moved. Then he heard a gurgling sound and Edna cry-out, “I curse you and all your ancestors that you may never have happiness in love.”
Then he heard his dad yell out, “Edna no!” Charles knew his father was dead, and hid under the covers until daylight. Then he went down stairs to find the house looking like nothing happened. Peeking in the kitchen Charles saw his mother at the stove. Looking up Edna insisted, “You need to go help George milk the cow, and unhitch the team. The team came back with the wagon last night. Who knows where your father went. Now go. I’ll have breakfast ready when you’re done.”
A few days later the saloon burnt to the ground, and they never heard from their father again.
It was when George was 19 that Edna sent him to sale some cattle. George hired two men to help him drive about 30 head to market. That was the last time anyone ever saw him.
This enraged Edna and she demanded that Charles find a wife. With that Charles married 15 year old Cora at the age of 17. Edna treated Cora like a slave, and made her do everything for her. Cora’s life had turned into a living hell. Then Cora got pregnant and died giving birth to my grandfather Roy. Enda laughed at Cora as she died. Making Charles hate her, and forever seek revenge.
Charles refused to seek another wife, and made Edna care for Roy. Edna now in her fifties had a tuff time caring for Roy, but he was all she had to carry on the curse. When Roy was 9 or 10 Edna disappeared without a trace. Roy married my grandmother Emma. Her first child was Clara then two years later she had my dad John. When John was 15 Clara left home, and was never heard from again. When John was 19 his mother Emma was found in the kitchen with a knife stuck in her eye socket. His dad was found in the barn hanging from the rafters. No-one knows for sure what happened.
Then at 22 my dad married Margaret 19 at the time. When she was 20 she had me, and I grew up on the farm. That is until that dreaded day when I was 14. It was early spring, and my dad was out plowing the field. I was walking home from the school-bus. I saw my mom on the porch shaking out a rug, and then go back in the house.
When I went into the house I saw my mom on the kitchen floor. She had a kitchen knife sticking out of her eye socket. They charged my dad with murder and sent him to prison. Even though I testified that I saw him on the tractor out in the field.
I was sent to live with our neighbors the Carlson’s. In return they farmed our land to pay the taxes and my keep. When I was 16 my dad was stabbed and killed in prison.
Then at 19 I graduated high school, and took over the farm. Mr. Carlson had farmed wheat, but dad had farmed barley for feed. I had no combine to harvest wheat. I had a swather for cutting, a baler, a harrow bed to pick up the bales, and a tractor.
What I had was lots of different equipment to have things go wrong, and go wrong it did.”
Suzy could smell the perfume again as she heard Jim repeating, “Suzy, Suzy are you OK?”
Opening her eyes she was laying on the dining room floor looking at Jim. Suzy mumbled, “What happened?”
Jim replied, “I don’t know what happened. I just came in and found you on the floor with the perfume bottle knocked over.”
Suzy was trying to comprehend what had just happened, was it all a dream, was it real, or something else? She just sat there looking at Jim wide eyed.
Jim acknowledged, “You have a big red spot on your head, and it looks like a lump is starting to form. I think I should take you into the clinic to get it checked out. He took her hand, pulled her to her feet, and walked her to his truck.
Suzy felt strange as Jim walked her. Her hart pounded hard and her body tingled, as she thought, Am I falling for Jim or is it the bump on my head doing this to me?
Jim helped her up into the truck, and shut the door. Climbing in the driver seat Jim started the old truck and slipped it into gear. With a squeak and growl the old truck rolled forward, and he was off for the clinic.
Jim looked at Suzy and smiled as he noted the lump getting bigger. To keep her calm Jim talked to her about things around them on the road. That barn over there is over a hundred years old. This curve up here is Connors corner. Back when this was a dirt road he made people go around his corn field to get to town. Ever since then it’s been known as Connors corner. They were now heading down the hill into town.
At the clinic Jim helped her from the truck, and walked her in. Inside the nurse saw Jim and Suzy and went right over to help walk her in.
Jim announced, “Hi Pam. Suzy hit her had.”
Pam took Suzy’s arm and helped her to a chair. Sitting her down she commented, “That is quit a bump on your head.” Then she questioned, “How did that happen?”
Suzy responded, “I fell down and hit my head.”
Pam informed, “Let me get an icepack for that, and see if I can get you in to see the Doctor.”
Pam quickly returned with the icepack and advised, “Here hold this on your head, and come with me.”
Looking at Jim Pam commented, “Have a seat Jim this shouldn’t take long.”
With that she led Suzy through a door. In the treatment room Pam questioned, “What are you doing with that guy? Do you know about his family? All the women die from strange things.”
Before Suzy could answer the doctor came in. standing next to Suzy he pulled a little flashlight from his pocket and shined it in her eyes as he questioned, “Did you lose consciousness?”
“I think so,” Suzy replied
“I assume you don’t know how long?” The doctor questioned.
Suzy hypothesized, “It happened right after Jim went out to the field, and I didn’t come to until he got back. I would guess about 15 minutes.”
“Blurred vision?” The doctor questioned.
“No,” Suzy replied
Lifting up the icepack and looking at the lump on her head the doctor commented, “I’m sure you have a concussion. I think this is going to need a cat-scan.”
Looking at Pam he instructed, “Call over to the hospital in Lambert and tell them we’re sending her over.”
In the waiting room Jim was getting impatient, he needed to know something. Then Pam came out and told Jim, “The Doctor is sending Suzy over to the hospital in Lambert. You will half to go there to see if they find anything.”
Looking out the window Jim saw the ambulance backing up alongside the clinic. Seeing the look on Jim’s face Pam assured, “She’ll be fine Jim. This is just transport to the hospital, so they can do some tests. I would suggest… Well you know. Everyone knows what happens to Hanson women.”
Jim snapped back, “It’s not like that! Pam!”
Then he headed for the door. In his truck he followed the ambulance to the hospital. He parked the truck and went inside to wait. Jim sat in the E.R. waiting room for about an hour and a half. Then a doctor came in and announced, “Jim Hanson.”
Jim stood up and the doctor walked over and insisted, “I think she’s going to be fine. All of the test we did look fine, but she has a concussion. I wanted to keep her overnight, but she insisted you would stay with her. She needs you to wake her up every two hours. You need to make sure she is alert before you let her go back to sleep. If she won’t wake or seams disoriented call 911 or get her back in here right away. Think you can do that?”
“Sure,” Jim replied.
The doctor insisted, “Then drive around to the entrance, and we’ll bring her out.”
Jim nodded and headed for the door.
In the truck he thought about the curse, and wondered if he was getting to close to Suzy. Was this all happening because of him? “I half to tell her,” Jim told himself.
Jim pulled the truck up in front of the door. Soon a nurse came out pushing a wheelchair with Suzy. She helped Suzy in the truck and shut the door.
Jim’s heart pounded with anticipation as he thought of telling Suzy about his history.
Before he could get out a word Suzy blurted out, “You’re going to half to spend the night at my place. I don’t think I’m ready to go back to yours yet.”
“That’s what I wanted to talk to you about,” Jim replied.
Suzy snapped back, “Don’t say a word! Now is not the time. Just go out to Walnut and hang a right. Then go down to 35th and turn left. It’s the third house on the right.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Three – The Psychic
Jim turned the corner and saw it right away. It was a quaint little green cottage on a tree-lined street in Lambert. He helped Suzy into the house. Inside it was a mess with boxes stacked everywhere.
Suzy explained, “Sorry about the mess, but I had to move out of grandpa’s house. I rented this place, and had everything moved here. I haven’t had time to even open a box. I put my clothes and bed in the bedroom. Other than that I haven’t done a thing. Every box has some kind of memory, and I just can’t face it right now.”
Jim whispered, “Sorry,” As he looked around the connected living-room and dining-room. One recliner chair and two end tables was the only furniture he saw. The rest was boxes stacked 5 or 6 feet high with a path down the middle. Suzy sat in the chair and let out a sigh of relief. Jim moved some boxes off one of the end tables and sat looking at Suzy.
Suzy spoke softly, “Through that gap over there is the bathroom, and the door at the end of the path is the kitchen. The bedroom is off the kitchen. I know it’s kind of weird, but I was just looking for a place to put the stuff and sleep. This works for that until I find a home.
Jim responded, “It’s way past noon and I’m kind of hungry. How about you? You want something?”
Suzy replied, “There’s a pizza joint just a few blocks away. That’s if pizza’s ok with you?”
“Sounds good,” Jim agreed.
Suzy got up from the chair as she announced, “Let’s do it Jim”
After eating Suzy confessed, “I feel a little queasy to my stomach. I think I should go home and laydown.”
Jim got a box for the leftover pizza, and took Suzy home. Then she took him to her bedroom and laid down in the middle of the bed. She patted her hand on the edge of the bed for Jim to sit. Now staring into her green eyes he was hepatized, as she began to speak. She told Jim all about her dream when she was knocked-out.
Jim snapped back to reality insisting, “I’ve never told anyone about that except Autum. How do you know that?
Suzy replied, “I don’t know, but I think Autum is trying to warn me of an impending or possible danger. Then again she could be trying to just tell me something. I don’t believe in Witches, magic powers, evil things and such. What I have learned is if you don’t know what you’re doing. Hire someone that dose. Like if you need electrical work done, and you don’t know how to do that. Hire an Electrician so you don’t burn your house down.”
Jim was confused and questioned, “Just what are you saying?”
Suzy replied, “I want to hire a psychic or spiritual medium to fix this.
Jim let out a sigh and whispered, “I’ve tried that. They all said the same thing only the Witch that cast the spell can remove it.”
Suzy insisted, “It came after me and I won’t let it happen again. I’m not giving up my dream! I already know you’re not a quitter, and you will do whatever it takes to make this dream come true. I can see us driving across the country in that truck. We both jumped on the train and were riding it to the end of the line. You got that?”
Suzy laid back and closed her eyes as Jim mumbled, “It takes money I don’t have.”
Suzy grabbed the collar of his shirt, and pulled him so his ear was next to her lips. Then she whispered, “I’m rich. I inherited millions. I’ll buy everything just tell me what we need and I’ll get it. Now wake me up in two hours.”
She let go of Jim as he whispered, “OK”
Jim was in shock. He didn’t know what to think. He wandered back out to the recliner chair and set the alarm on his phone then leaned back.
In the bedroom Suzy was having a dream about Autum. They were sitting at a table in a Saloon. That looked like something out of an old western movie. There was a man playing a piano and a Saloon gal hanging all over a cowboy. Autum told Suzy that’s Jim’s great great grandfather.
Suzy took a hard look at the cowboy. His face had about a weeks’ worth of growth on it, and his black hair hung to his shoulders. He was a big muscular man with a deep voice and a jolly laugh. Looking back at Autum Suzy could see two men playing cards at the table behind her. Past that was stairs going up to a balcony for the upstairs rooms.
Then Autum instructed, “Take it all in Suzy. You might need to remember this someday. Now listen as you look, Jim might need a little guidance. Don’t be afraid to push him a little. He’ll do whatever you need with a little push, but give him time. He’s not a jump all in kind of guy. He needs to test the waters first.”
“Beep, Beep,” The phone alarm was going off. Jim slowly opened his eyes. Pulled the phone from his pocket, and turned off the alarm. Setting up in the chair he rubbed his eyes and headed to Suzy’s room. Sitting on the edge of the bed he gave her a gentle shake, as he whispered, “Suzy.”
Slowly her eyes opened as she moaned, “It’s time?”
Jim whispered, “You need to sit up, so I can make sure you’re all here.”
Slowly Suzy sat up and insisted, “You’re the man of my dreams and my knight in shining armor. You’ve come to rescue me from the wicked witch.”
Jim insisted, “Get up and get dressed. I have to take you back to the hospital you’re not thinking right.”
Suzy laughed, “You just want to get rid of me so you can have the truck to yourself. Now let me get back to that good dream I was having. See you in about two hours, OK?”
Jim nodded and left, and went back to the chair. He set the alarm on his phone and leaned back. He did this all night. Then in the morning he awoke to the sound of running water. He walked over to the bathroom door and yelled, “You Ok in there?”
She yelled back, “Just give me a minute.”
Jim sat back in the chair as Suzy appeared wearing a big fluffy green robe and a towel wrapped around her head. She winked and said, “You can pee now. I left a towel and stuff in there. You can do what you want with it.”
Jim cleaned up the best he could, and put back on the same clothes. Coming back out of the bathroom he saw Suzy setting in the chair. She was dressed in a blue work shirt, blue jeans, and boots. Just like the first day he saw her at his house.
Suzy jumped up and said, “Put your boots on so we can get out of this place.”
Jim put on his boots and they went to a pancake house for breakfast. Sitting at a booth Suzy surfed the web then made a call, “Is this the psychic? Good I need you to check out a haunting. How much will that be? OK if I have a ticket waiting for you can you fly out tonight? Good I’ll have a rental car and room waiting for you.”
Suzy smiled as she exclaimed, “Just like that the ghost is gone.”
Jim took a sip of his coffee and mumbled, “It’s not a ghost.”
Suzy replied, “Ghost, Witch what’s the different their both spirits.”
Jim shoved a big bite of pancake in his mouth and smiled. He knew it was a curse, and there was nothing that could be done.
Suzy went on, “About the truck. I need you to make up a list of everything we need.”
Jim looked up taking a big gulp as he push down the pancake in his mouth. Then he informed, “I looked up the tires and rims. It will be about five grand on the cheap side. I think this is going to be more than I ever thought.”
Suzy smiled and replied, “Well don’t go cheap get the best, but it has to be right to the truck. This isn’t about money. Didn’t you hear me last night?”
Jim gulped, “I just thought it was the bump on the head. After all you thought I was a knight in shining armor.”
Suzy couldn’t hold it and sprayed coffee out of her mouth. Wiping her face she snickered, “I see why Autum loved you. You’re one of a kind Jim.”
Jim just smiled as Suzy continued, “We need to build a shop to put the truck together in. I was thinking something like a 30X40 steel building with a concrete floor. The dirt floor in the barn would never work. What do you think Jim?”
Jim questioned, “Where are you putting this shop?”
Suzy looked surprised as she responded, “Why the farm of course. I don’t have any land to put it on. Then we could take it apart in the barn, and take the parts over to the new shop. Does that sound good to you?”
Jim questioned, “Just what is this going to cost me?”
Suzy answered, “Friendship Jim just friendship. Isn’t it nice to have a rich friend? Don’t answer that. Let me tell you something that happened back when I was 17. It was almost 10 years ago I lost my best friend to suicide. I spent years wracking my brain trying to figure out what I could've done or said differently. It all just came out of the blue. Finally, I had to just settle my mind with the fact that it's not my place to decide how much is too much for another to cope with. My only recourse was to have done pretty much what I did with the knowledge I had. Which in my case is what I did, and that was nothing at all.
I know I’m pushing this fast and hard, but I need this right now, so if I’m going to fast let me know.”
Jim got a serious look on his face and responded, “Then you do what you do, and I’ll do what I know. I’ll take the truck apart, and make a list. You use your college degree to take care of the importin stuff. Then we can meet in the middle and have a truck.”
Suzy agreed, “Yes!”
Then that’s how it went. Jim started taking apart the truck, Suzy found a contractor to build the shop, and Steve plowed up the field.
The next day Jim tried to break the lug nuts lose, but not even one would budge. He screamed out, “You bastard! I’ll fix your ass.” He grabbed a can of penetrating oil and emptied the entire can on one wheel yelling, “Take that you rusty bastard!”
Then he emptied 3 more cans on the other wheels. Then Jim started to feel light headed. He thought wow this is bad I need to open the door, so he pushed the barn door open about 3 feet and passed out. Suzy drove up seeing Jim laying half in and half out of the barn. Throwing the car in park she ran to Jim’s side. She gave a sigh, “Oh good he’s breathing.”
Then the smell of the penetrating oil hit her, and she thought. I got to get you away from this. Taking his arms she pulled with all of her might, and drugged him about five feet. Kneeling next to Jim she shook him vigorously yelling, “Jim, Jim! Don’t do this to me. She slapped his face as a tear came down her cheek. Then she whimpered, “Damn it Jim.”
His eyes slowly opened as Suzy cried out, “Thank God!”
Then she wiped the tears from her face and scolded, “Don’t you ever do something like that again. I can’t take losing another part of my life right now. You see how I live. I’m basically living in a storage unit with a bed and chair. I have no friends because I was the boss. I like to think I was nice, but you can’t be friends with your employees. All I have right now is you. That’s it no more working on the truck unless I’m here. You got that?”
Jim mumbled, “It’s going to take longer that way.”
Suzy snapped back, “So, if you keep doing this kind of stuff. It won’t get done at all. Without you I have nothing. Everything is in your name. Hell you don’t even have any heirs. The state will get everything.”
Suzy took a deep breath and apologized, “Sorry Jim. You just scared the hell out of me and I lost it.”
Jim took her hand and gave it a squeeze. With a smile he assured, “I’m going to be fine. I just went stupid for a moment.”
Suzy got up and pulled Jim up by his hand. They stared at each other for a moment. Then she let Jim’s hand slip away.
Just then a car pulled in the drive way. Suzy exclaimed, “It’s the psychic. She’s here.”
Jim saw her through the windshield. It was Malinda. Jim had had her try to help when Autum was still alive. Malinda stopped in front of the house, got out and leaned back against the car, and stared at the house. Then she turned her head and greeted, “Hi Jim. See you’re still alive. I heard about Autum. I’m sorry about that.”
Suzy questioned, “You know her Jim?”
Jim replied, “Yep, Autum and I had her out here when she was alive, but she couldn’t help us.”
Malinda questioned, “You must be Suzy?
Malinda looked at Jim as he spoke up, “It’s not like that. We’re just friends.”
Malinda continued, “Sorry Jim there won’t be a charge for this. I thought you passed or sold the place and Suzy was the new owner. So what can I do for you?”
Suzy demanded. “You can get that thing out of this place.”
Malinda dropped her head and mumbled, “I can’t. I can’t even go in the house the Witch won’t let me in. I’m so sorry”
Jim asked, “Do you see Autum?”
Malinda perked up and replied, “I sure do Jim. She’s standing next to Suzy. Her aura is surrounding Suzy now. Autum’s giving her a shield of protection.”
Suzy requested, “Isn’t there anything we can do”
Malinda hypothesized, “I don’t know this for sure, but there is a story about a man. He built a covered wagon, and took it back to the 1800’s. Ware he saved a boy that had fail through the ice in a pond. It’s said that he had to build the wagon all by himself. Then the spell had to be performed by someone on the other side.
The witnesses mostly children say Anthony walked out to check the ice and fell through. Then a wagon with a team of horses came out of no ware. A man jumped from the wagon as a woman tossed him a rope. He tossed the rope out to Anthony, and pulled him up on the bank. Then he jumped back on the wagon and road off fading away until the wagon disappeared.
There’s another one about a guy that built a helicopter, and went back to World War II. Then he flew a wind talker in to save a group of soldiers. There are others, but they might be stories too.”
Jim looked at Suzy as she said, “You would have to build the truck by yourself. All I could do is watch and get stuff.”
Jim looked at Malinda and questioned, “Do you think we can do this?”
Malinda replied, “Autum is telling me that if you build it. She’ll cast the spell.”
A big smile came to Suzy’s face, and she exclaimed, “Now we have a plan, and the train is picking up speed.”
Malinda insisted, “These are just stories no one knows if there true are not. It would take a lot of time and money to find out.”
Suzy smiled as she replied, “That we have. I just never dreamed it would turn out this way. This is going to be the best truck ever.”
Malinda yelled out, “Autum stop! I’m sorry, but Autum is telling me a lot of stuff. I just can’t keep track of this and her at the same time.”
Jim questioned, “What’s she saying?”
Malinda replied, “I got it Autum. Later Jim now I want you to understand this might not even be possible even with the spell. Autum’s not a Witch and spells are complicated, but things are different on the other side. Time is something that doesn’t exist over there. Don’t ask me how that works. I just know time is for the living.”
It was quiet for a little bit then Jim asked, “What is Autum telling you?”
Malinda dropped her head and mumbled, “Its private Jim. When we’re alone I’ll tell you.”
Suzy looked at Malinda and questioned, “It’s about me isn’t it.”
Malinda replied, “The ones on the other side know all about us.”
Suzy took a deep breath and urged, “Then let me tell him.”
Malinda nodded her head and affirmed, “Autum said go ahead.”
Suzy took Jim’s hands and stared straight into his eyes and confessed, “I’ve known about you for a long time. I drove by here a few times to see if I could catch a glimpse of you. My grandpa told me about you when your mom died, and told me all about the curse. You see my parents died in a bad car wreck when I was 7, so my dad’s parents raised me.”
Squeezing Jim’s hands Suzy disclosed, “Clara Hanson was my mother’s maiden name.”
Jim stepped back staring at Suzy as she continued, “I’ve seen you a few times over the years, but couldn’t bring myself to talk to you. Then when you showed up at the auction it was like a dream come true. I had to act fast and told the auctioneer to auction the truck last. That gave me time to put a lone agreement on the back of the check. You know the rest from there.”
Jim was dumb founded, and didn’t know what to say. He just stared at Suzy. Then he questioned, “You’re my cousin?
Suzy replied, “Well we both have the same grandmother and grandfather so I’d say so.”
Jim continued, “There is so much I want to tell you, but it’s not safe for you to be here.”
Suzy laughed, “Jim, I’m not a Hanson. I’m Suzy White and this curse can’t touch me.”
Malinda interjected, “You’re right the curse can’t, but the Witch can. She knows who you are, and that you’re here. That’s why Autum is protecting you now. The Witch sees you as a threat, and has power here because this is where the curse was cast.”
Jim started to look sad as he questioned, “The truck was just a way to get to me?”
Suzy sympathize, “Oh no Jim. The truck is my dream. I remember it just like it was yesterday. I was 9 sitting in the truck with my grandpa. That’s when he told me the truck would take me places I never dreamed. He told me this was the kind of truck he landed on the beach in Normandy with. I think that’s why I want this so much, because it’s a part of him.”
Jim’s eyes opened wide and he exclaimed, “I think I was there in a dream when he drove the truck on the beach.”
Jim put his hands on his head and walked around mumbling, “What the hell is going on. Damn, what the hell.”
Suzy walked over and put her arms around Jim, and squeezed him tight whispering, “Its ok Jim. We’re together now, and that’s all that matters. We got each other, and we have this.”
Jim turned the corner and saw it right away. It was a quaint little green cottage on a tree-lined street in Lambert. He helped Suzy into the house. Inside it was a mess with boxes stacked everywhere.
Suzy explained, “Sorry about the mess, but I had to move out of grandpa’s house. I rented this place, and had everything moved here. I haven’t had time to even open a box. I put my clothes and bed in the bedroom. Other than that I haven’t done a thing. Every box has some kind of memory, and I just can’t face it right now.”
Jim whispered, “Sorry,” As he looked around the connected living-room and dining-room. One recliner chair and two end tables was the only furniture he saw. The rest was boxes stacked 5 or 6 feet high with a path down the middle. Suzy sat in the chair and let out a sigh of relief. Jim moved some boxes off one of the end tables and sat looking at Suzy.
Suzy spoke softly, “Through that gap over there is the bathroom, and the door at the end of the path is the kitchen. The bedroom is off the kitchen. I know it’s kind of weird, but I was just looking for a place to put the stuff and sleep. This works for that until I find a home.
Jim responded, “It’s way past noon and I’m kind of hungry. How about you? You want something?”
Suzy replied, “There’s a pizza joint just a few blocks away. That’s if pizza’s ok with you?”
“Sounds good,” Jim agreed.
Suzy got up from the chair as she announced, “Let’s do it Jim”
After eating Suzy confessed, “I feel a little queasy to my stomach. I think I should go home and laydown.”
Jim got a box for the leftover pizza, and took Suzy home. Then she took him to her bedroom and laid down in the middle of the bed. She patted her hand on the edge of the bed for Jim to sit. Now staring into her green eyes he was hepatized, as she began to speak. She told Jim all about her dream when she was knocked-out.
Jim snapped back to reality insisting, “I’ve never told anyone about that except Autum. How do you know that?
Suzy replied, “I don’t know, but I think Autum is trying to warn me of an impending or possible danger. Then again she could be trying to just tell me something. I don’t believe in Witches, magic powers, evil things and such. What I have learned is if you don’t know what you’re doing. Hire someone that dose. Like if you need electrical work done, and you don’t know how to do that. Hire an Electrician so you don’t burn your house down.”
Jim was confused and questioned, “Just what are you saying?”
Suzy replied, “I want to hire a psychic or spiritual medium to fix this.
Jim let out a sigh and whispered, “I’ve tried that. They all said the same thing only the Witch that cast the spell can remove it.”
Suzy insisted, “It came after me and I won’t let it happen again. I’m not giving up my dream! I already know you’re not a quitter, and you will do whatever it takes to make this dream come true. I can see us driving across the country in that truck. We both jumped on the train and were riding it to the end of the line. You got that?”
Suzy laid back and closed her eyes as Jim mumbled, “It takes money I don’t have.”
Suzy grabbed the collar of his shirt, and pulled him so his ear was next to her lips. Then she whispered, “I’m rich. I inherited millions. I’ll buy everything just tell me what we need and I’ll get it. Now wake me up in two hours.”
She let go of Jim as he whispered, “OK”
Jim was in shock. He didn’t know what to think. He wandered back out to the recliner chair and set the alarm on his phone then leaned back.
In the bedroom Suzy was having a dream about Autum. They were sitting at a table in a Saloon. That looked like something out of an old western movie. There was a man playing a piano and a Saloon gal hanging all over a cowboy. Autum told Suzy that’s Jim’s great great grandfather.
Suzy took a hard look at the cowboy. His face had about a weeks’ worth of growth on it, and his black hair hung to his shoulders. He was a big muscular man with a deep voice and a jolly laugh. Looking back at Autum Suzy could see two men playing cards at the table behind her. Past that was stairs going up to a balcony for the upstairs rooms.
Then Autum instructed, “Take it all in Suzy. You might need to remember this someday. Now listen as you look, Jim might need a little guidance. Don’t be afraid to push him a little. He’ll do whatever you need with a little push, but give him time. He’s not a jump all in kind of guy. He needs to test the waters first.”
“Beep, Beep,” The phone alarm was going off. Jim slowly opened his eyes. Pulled the phone from his pocket, and turned off the alarm. Setting up in the chair he rubbed his eyes and headed to Suzy’s room. Sitting on the edge of the bed he gave her a gentle shake, as he whispered, “Suzy.”
Slowly her eyes opened as she moaned, “It’s time?”
Jim whispered, “You need to sit up, so I can make sure you’re all here.”
Slowly Suzy sat up and insisted, “You’re the man of my dreams and my knight in shining armor. You’ve come to rescue me from the wicked witch.”
Jim insisted, “Get up and get dressed. I have to take you back to the hospital you’re not thinking right.”
Suzy laughed, “You just want to get rid of me so you can have the truck to yourself. Now let me get back to that good dream I was having. See you in about two hours, OK?”
Jim nodded and left, and went back to the chair. He set the alarm on his phone and leaned back. He did this all night. Then in the morning he awoke to the sound of running water. He walked over to the bathroom door and yelled, “You Ok in there?”
She yelled back, “Just give me a minute.”
Jim sat back in the chair as Suzy appeared wearing a big fluffy green robe and a towel wrapped around her head. She winked and said, “You can pee now. I left a towel and stuff in there. You can do what you want with it.”
Jim cleaned up the best he could, and put back on the same clothes. Coming back out of the bathroom he saw Suzy setting in the chair. She was dressed in a blue work shirt, blue jeans, and boots. Just like the first day he saw her at his house.
Suzy jumped up and said, “Put your boots on so we can get out of this place.”
Jim put on his boots and they went to a pancake house for breakfast. Sitting at a booth Suzy surfed the web then made a call, “Is this the psychic? Good I need you to check out a haunting. How much will that be? OK if I have a ticket waiting for you can you fly out tonight? Good I’ll have a rental car and room waiting for you.”
Suzy smiled as she exclaimed, “Just like that the ghost is gone.”
Jim took a sip of his coffee and mumbled, “It’s not a ghost.”
Suzy replied, “Ghost, Witch what’s the different their both spirits.”
Jim shoved a big bite of pancake in his mouth and smiled. He knew it was a curse, and there was nothing that could be done.
Suzy went on, “About the truck. I need you to make up a list of everything we need.”
Jim looked up taking a big gulp as he push down the pancake in his mouth. Then he informed, “I looked up the tires and rims. It will be about five grand on the cheap side. I think this is going to be more than I ever thought.”
Suzy smiled and replied, “Well don’t go cheap get the best, but it has to be right to the truck. This isn’t about money. Didn’t you hear me last night?”
Jim gulped, “I just thought it was the bump on the head. After all you thought I was a knight in shining armor.”
Suzy couldn’t hold it and sprayed coffee out of her mouth. Wiping her face she snickered, “I see why Autum loved you. You’re one of a kind Jim.”
Jim just smiled as Suzy continued, “We need to build a shop to put the truck together in. I was thinking something like a 30X40 steel building with a concrete floor. The dirt floor in the barn would never work. What do you think Jim?”
Jim questioned, “Where are you putting this shop?”
Suzy looked surprised as she responded, “Why the farm of course. I don’t have any land to put it on. Then we could take it apart in the barn, and take the parts over to the new shop. Does that sound good to you?”
Jim questioned, “Just what is this going to cost me?”
Suzy answered, “Friendship Jim just friendship. Isn’t it nice to have a rich friend? Don’t answer that. Let me tell you something that happened back when I was 17. It was almost 10 years ago I lost my best friend to suicide. I spent years wracking my brain trying to figure out what I could've done or said differently. It all just came out of the blue. Finally, I had to just settle my mind with the fact that it's not my place to decide how much is too much for another to cope with. My only recourse was to have done pretty much what I did with the knowledge I had. Which in my case is what I did, and that was nothing at all.
I know I’m pushing this fast and hard, but I need this right now, so if I’m going to fast let me know.”
Jim got a serious look on his face and responded, “Then you do what you do, and I’ll do what I know. I’ll take the truck apart, and make a list. You use your college degree to take care of the importin stuff. Then we can meet in the middle and have a truck.”
Suzy agreed, “Yes!”
Then that’s how it went. Jim started taking apart the truck, Suzy found a contractor to build the shop, and Steve plowed up the field.
The next day Jim tried to break the lug nuts lose, but not even one would budge. He screamed out, “You bastard! I’ll fix your ass.” He grabbed a can of penetrating oil and emptied the entire can on one wheel yelling, “Take that you rusty bastard!”
Then he emptied 3 more cans on the other wheels. Then Jim started to feel light headed. He thought wow this is bad I need to open the door, so he pushed the barn door open about 3 feet and passed out. Suzy drove up seeing Jim laying half in and half out of the barn. Throwing the car in park she ran to Jim’s side. She gave a sigh, “Oh good he’s breathing.”
Then the smell of the penetrating oil hit her, and she thought. I got to get you away from this. Taking his arms she pulled with all of her might, and drugged him about five feet. Kneeling next to Jim she shook him vigorously yelling, “Jim, Jim! Don’t do this to me. She slapped his face as a tear came down her cheek. Then she whimpered, “Damn it Jim.”
His eyes slowly opened as Suzy cried out, “Thank God!”
Then she wiped the tears from her face and scolded, “Don’t you ever do something like that again. I can’t take losing another part of my life right now. You see how I live. I’m basically living in a storage unit with a bed and chair. I have no friends because I was the boss. I like to think I was nice, but you can’t be friends with your employees. All I have right now is you. That’s it no more working on the truck unless I’m here. You got that?”
Jim mumbled, “It’s going to take longer that way.”
Suzy snapped back, “So, if you keep doing this kind of stuff. It won’t get done at all. Without you I have nothing. Everything is in your name. Hell you don’t even have any heirs. The state will get everything.”
Suzy took a deep breath and apologized, “Sorry Jim. You just scared the hell out of me and I lost it.”
Jim took her hand and gave it a squeeze. With a smile he assured, “I’m going to be fine. I just went stupid for a moment.”
Suzy got up and pulled Jim up by his hand. They stared at each other for a moment. Then she let Jim’s hand slip away.
Just then a car pulled in the drive way. Suzy exclaimed, “It’s the psychic. She’s here.”
Jim saw her through the windshield. It was Malinda. Jim had had her try to help when Autum was still alive. Malinda stopped in front of the house, got out and leaned back against the car, and stared at the house. Then she turned her head and greeted, “Hi Jim. See you’re still alive. I heard about Autum. I’m sorry about that.”
Suzy questioned, “You know her Jim?”
Jim replied, “Yep, Autum and I had her out here when she was alive, but she couldn’t help us.”
Malinda questioned, “You must be Suzy?
Malinda looked at Jim as he spoke up, “It’s not like that. We’re just friends.”
Malinda continued, “Sorry Jim there won’t be a charge for this. I thought you passed or sold the place and Suzy was the new owner. So what can I do for you?”
Suzy demanded. “You can get that thing out of this place.”
Malinda dropped her head and mumbled, “I can’t. I can’t even go in the house the Witch won’t let me in. I’m so sorry”
Jim asked, “Do you see Autum?”
Malinda perked up and replied, “I sure do Jim. She’s standing next to Suzy. Her aura is surrounding Suzy now. Autum’s giving her a shield of protection.”
Suzy requested, “Isn’t there anything we can do”
Malinda hypothesized, “I don’t know this for sure, but there is a story about a man. He built a covered wagon, and took it back to the 1800’s. Ware he saved a boy that had fail through the ice in a pond. It’s said that he had to build the wagon all by himself. Then the spell had to be performed by someone on the other side.
The witnesses mostly children say Anthony walked out to check the ice and fell through. Then a wagon with a team of horses came out of no ware. A man jumped from the wagon as a woman tossed him a rope. He tossed the rope out to Anthony, and pulled him up on the bank. Then he jumped back on the wagon and road off fading away until the wagon disappeared.
There’s another one about a guy that built a helicopter, and went back to World War II. Then he flew a wind talker in to save a group of soldiers. There are others, but they might be stories too.”
Jim looked at Suzy as she said, “You would have to build the truck by yourself. All I could do is watch and get stuff.”
Jim looked at Malinda and questioned, “Do you think we can do this?”
Malinda replied, “Autum is telling me that if you build it. She’ll cast the spell.”
A big smile came to Suzy’s face, and she exclaimed, “Now we have a plan, and the train is picking up speed.”
Malinda insisted, “These are just stories no one knows if there true are not. It would take a lot of time and money to find out.”
Suzy smiled as she replied, “That we have. I just never dreamed it would turn out this way. This is going to be the best truck ever.”
Malinda yelled out, “Autum stop! I’m sorry, but Autum is telling me a lot of stuff. I just can’t keep track of this and her at the same time.”
Jim questioned, “What’s she saying?”
Malinda replied, “I got it Autum. Later Jim now I want you to understand this might not even be possible even with the spell. Autum’s not a Witch and spells are complicated, but things are different on the other side. Time is something that doesn’t exist over there. Don’t ask me how that works. I just know time is for the living.”
It was quiet for a little bit then Jim asked, “What is Autum telling you?”
Malinda dropped her head and mumbled, “Its private Jim. When we’re alone I’ll tell you.”
Suzy looked at Malinda and questioned, “It’s about me isn’t it.”
Malinda replied, “The ones on the other side know all about us.”
Suzy took a deep breath and urged, “Then let me tell him.”
Malinda nodded her head and affirmed, “Autum said go ahead.”
Suzy took Jim’s hands and stared straight into his eyes and confessed, “I’ve known about you for a long time. I drove by here a few times to see if I could catch a glimpse of you. My grandpa told me about you when your mom died, and told me all about the curse. You see my parents died in a bad car wreck when I was 7, so my dad’s parents raised me.”
Squeezing Jim’s hands Suzy disclosed, “Clara Hanson was my mother’s maiden name.”
Jim stepped back staring at Suzy as she continued, “I’ve seen you a few times over the years, but couldn’t bring myself to talk to you. Then when you showed up at the auction it was like a dream come true. I had to act fast and told the auctioneer to auction the truck last. That gave me time to put a lone agreement on the back of the check. You know the rest from there.”
Jim was dumb founded, and didn’t know what to say. He just stared at Suzy. Then he questioned, “You’re my cousin?
Suzy replied, “Well we both have the same grandmother and grandfather so I’d say so.”
Jim continued, “There is so much I want to tell you, but it’s not safe for you to be here.”
Suzy laughed, “Jim, I’m not a Hanson. I’m Suzy White and this curse can’t touch me.”
Malinda interjected, “You’re right the curse can’t, but the Witch can. She knows who you are, and that you’re here. That’s why Autum is protecting you now. The Witch sees you as a threat, and has power here because this is where the curse was cast.”
Jim started to look sad as he questioned, “The truck was just a way to get to me?”
Suzy sympathize, “Oh no Jim. The truck is my dream. I remember it just like it was yesterday. I was 9 sitting in the truck with my grandpa. That’s when he told me the truck would take me places I never dreamed. He told me this was the kind of truck he landed on the beach in Normandy with. I think that’s why I want this so much, because it’s a part of him.”
Jim’s eyes opened wide and he exclaimed, “I think I was there in a dream when he drove the truck on the beach.”
Jim put his hands on his head and walked around mumbling, “What the hell is going on. Damn, what the hell.”
Suzy walked over and put her arms around Jim, and squeezed him tight whispering, “Its ok Jim. We’re together now, and that’s all that matters. We got each other, and we have this.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Four – The Bank Account
Just then the door to the house flew open with a bang, and everyone looked at the house. The curtains flew and the Witch appeared in the doorway laughing. Then she faded away.
Malinda questioned, “Did you see that or was it just me?”
At the same time Jim and Suzy replied, “Oh yah we saw that.”
Malinda exclaimed, “I think we pissed her off. Not good, not good at all.”
Then it got cold and an eerie fog moved in. It was so thick everything started to fade away. Malinda jumped in her car. Backed it up and turned it around. Then she sped down the driveway. Her taillights disappeared as Jim insisted, “Let’s get out of here.”
Suzy agreed as they got in her car and took off. On the road they drove out of the fog and saw Malinda up ahead. They followed her to town where she stopped at the Keyhole bar and grill.
Inside they sat across from Malinda in a booth. Malinda ordered a double Mudslide as Jim questioned, “Why did you take off like that?”
Malinda took a deep breath as she confessed, “I see and hear things other people don’t even know about. Autum would not stop talking and it was making it hard to think. Nothing felt right to me. Autum has a strange magic about her. I have never experienced anything like it before.
Then when the Witch appeared Autum raised her hand and a ball of bright swirling energy appeared. Then she threw the ball of bright flashing colored light at the Witch. The ball exploded surrounding the Witch with flashes of light like a sparkler. It was like the Witch was surrounded by millions of tiny flickering stars.”
The waitress set the Mudslide on the table with a smile. Malinda picked up the drink and chugged half it down. Wiping her face with a napkin she continued, “As the Witched laughed Autum threw two more of the bright swirling balls. Then Autum looked right at me and yelled go! The sound echoed through my head, and I knew I had to get out of there.”
Malinda took another drink as Suzy stared at her intensely and Jim mumbled, “What the…”
“I know Jim. That’s what I’m thinking,” Malinda replied.
Drinking down the last of her Mudslide Malinda questioned, “When did you move out Jim?”
Jim replied, “I’m still living there Malinda.”
Malinda insisted, “No! No! Get out of there. Don’t go back in that house. When I found out Suzy wasn’t the new owner and you hadn’t passed or sold the place. I didn’t know what to think, but I can tell you this. I won’t go back there, and you should stay out of the house too. Don’t remove any of Autum’s stuff. Just leave everything as it is.”
The waitress came and picked up the empty glass. Then she questioned, “Can I get you anything else?”
Malinda questioned, “Can I get one of you to take me back to the Hotel?”
Jim replied, “Sure.”
Then Malinda looked at the waitress and informed, “I’ll have another double please.”
Looking at Jim and Suzy the waitress question, “And what will you have?”
Jim replied, “Just coffee for me.”
Suzy insisted, “The same for me.”
With that the waitress left and Malinda continued, “The house is where everything comes from. I do believe that’s where the spell was cast. In fact I believe a lot of spells were cast there. I’m putting that house on my top ten places to never go.
However there is one thing I wanted to warn you about. If you build the truck there will be consequences if you succeed. It will send a wake through the time passages. I know nothing about this kind of thing, but I do know everything comes at a price.”
Then the waitress set down their drinks, and Jim questioned, “You said Autum would not stop talking. What was she telling you?”
Malinda acknowledged, “It was about Suzy. She was telling me that Clara was Suzy’s mother, and how she died. Autum told me that that Clara and her husband had come to see your mom and dad. On their way home they went off the road at that same curve where Autum was killed. A fencepost came through the windshield and when the car hit the tree it drove the post into Clara’s head killing her. Then the car flipped up on end. This made a branch go through the driver’s window and into John’s head.”
A tear ran down Suzy’s face as Malinda mentioned, “Oh Suzy I’m sorry. I thought you knew.”
Suzy whimpered, “No, I just knew that they died in a car crash, but not how or why.”
Jim wiped a tear from Suzy’s cheek as he whispered, “We got each other.”
Malinda continued, “It’s the alcohol. I tend to ramble on when I drink, but it’s the only time I’m free of them. Let me see if I can help you a little. This is what will work.
Like garlic and salt, water is one of the common substances widely held to have special powers. Among other things, this means it can be used to protect you against various, and anything evil cannot cross water such as a bad witch. Almost always, the water must be moving. Rain, the ocean or, a lake may or may not qualify.
There are Water Demons that can only move around in water, but you don’t have that. What you should do is run a hose around the house and overlap it at the ends. Turn the water on and let it run. This will trap the Witch in the house. To keep it from flooding the place you might get a circulation pump to pump the water around the house.
Then put a thick layer of salt around the house. If you do this it should be safe to go there, but not in the house. Unfortunately if Autum is in the house she might be trapped too. I’m not sure about that because Autum’s not evil. I believe she is here out of love for you Jim. It’s that love bond that is keeping her here, and it’s you Jim that has to set her free.
I’m sorry. I’m feeling the alcohol and rambling on, but you need all the weapons you can use. It might not hurt to ware garlic around your neck when you’re there. Now I think it’s time to go. I need to sleep this off.
Jim drove Malinda and the rental car to the hotel, and Suzy followed in her Neon. Then Suzy took Jim back to her house. On the way Suzy divulged, “I’m cooking us some dinner tonight.”
Jim was silent and didn’t say a word. He was drowning in his thoughts of what Malinda had told him. Suzy stopped at the store, and Jim stayed in the car thinking, I miss Autum so much. Malinda told me love was keeping her here. Is it me, is it her, or is it both of us? Is our love just that strong, or am I not letting go?
Just then the car door opened, and Suzy put a bag in the backseat. Getting in she commented, “Hope you like vegetables.”
Jim snapped out of his thinking and replied, “I like most of them.”
At Suzy’s house Jim set at the kitchen table, as Suzy took the vegetables from the bag. She piled them up across from Jim. Then pulling out a bag of coffee she commented, “You’ll love this.”
Then she started looking through the cupboards and cursed, “Damn it no filter. Paper-towel it is then.”
Pushing a paper-towel in the coffee pot she poured some coffee on it. Then put in the water. Pulling a knife from a drawer she pointed it at Jim and demanded, “Tell me your deepest darkest secrets.”
Looking at the dark black and blue spot on her head Jim replied, “You already know all of them. Just look in the mirror and you can see what kind of person I am.”
Suzy snapped back, “Don’t even go there Jim. You had nothing to do with this. It was the Witch and you know it. Didn’t you hear Malinda when she said your love was keeping Autum here? I want that kind of love in my life. Why do you think Autum is trying to protect me? I’ll tell you why. It’s because I’m a part of you and her love for you is that strong.”
Suzy pulled the cutting board from the counter, and sat across from Jim. Chopping the vegetables as she continued, “My grandpa had that kind of love. He would do anything for me, and he did. He taught me when too much is happening to fast. You have to step back and slow down a little. What he would tell me is, “It’s time to put the top back on the beehive and let them calm down a little.” That’s what time it is now Jim. We need to put the top back on the beehive.”
Jim said, “We need to go slow or I’ll be left behind. I got all this stuff in my head, and it takes time to know what’s right.”
Suzy cutup the chicken as she insisted “Put the lid on the beehive Jim. We’ll take it one thing at a time.
Suzy put a large cast-iron pan on the stove, and poured in some oil. Then she added the chicken. When it was done she put in the vegetables, and poured in a bottle of stir-fry sauce. Looking at Jim she explained, “The trick is not to cook it too long. If we let that happen it turns into soup.”
Jim smiled and proclaimed, “Anything would be better than the burned up pot-pies I’ve been eating.”
Suzy joked, “Hang with me kid and you’ll learn what a one-pan meal is.”
Suzy put a hot pad on the table and set the cast-iron pan on it. Then she put two plates and forks on the table. “That’s it dig in Jim,” Suzy demanded.
Eating Suzy explained, “You’re sleeping in my bed tonight, I need the chair. I have to spend some time with grandpa. That was his chair, and yes I lied and said it was mine. Like the truck I had to keep it. It was a part of him I wanted to remember. After a day like today I need some thinking time. Tomorrow we’ll get you a bed and move some boxes so you can stay here. I’m not letting you go back to that house.”
Jim questioned. “What about the truck?”
Suzy smiled, “Nothing has changed Jim. We just need to put the hose around the house, and the salt. We have to keep track of Steve too. He’s going to want to get paid on Friday. I’ m thinking about all the stuff we need to do. You just need to do the truck, and I’ll take care of everything else.”
Jim divulged, “I’ve been thinking about Autum. If we do this what will happen to her? If she’s trapped in the house can she cast the spell from there?”
Suzy squinted her eyes and replied, “I’m working on it Jim. You just worry about the truck. I have Malinda’s number and we will have a plan for that.”
After they ate they did the dishes, Suzy went to the chair, and Jim went to the bed room. Looking around Jim saw the bed, a dresser, and a desk with a computer. He thought, this doesn’t look like a person that just inherited millions.
Looking at the TV on the dresser he saw the remote setting in front of it. Taking it he turned on the TV. After thumbing through a few channels he turned it off. He was just to wound-up to sit still, so he turned on the computer.
Looking at the password screen he yelled, “What’s the password?”
“Your Name,” echoed from the other room.
Jim shook his head and typed Jim, nothing, so he tried typing Jim Hanson and nothing again. He yelled again, “It’s not working.”
“What did you type?” echoed from the other room.
Jim replied, “I tried Jim and Jim Hanson, but neither worked.”
Suzy hollered, “I said your name! You know Y O U R N A M E.”
“Ok I got it,” Jim replied.
Jim found some replica split rims they were expensive. Jim thought, she said she was a millionaire. He printed the page, and looked for the right tires. Soon he had a stack of things he needed. Looking at the time Jim saw it was 3:00 AM. With a yawn Jim got in bed.
In the chair Suzy was dreaming about her grandpa. They were sitting in the truck going to a magical place. He told her it was a place time had long forgotten. Everything moves slower here. That’s what you need to do now is take it slow. One thing at a time is how you do it. It’s ok to have a bunch of pokers in the fire, but like the blacksmith you only pull out one at a time to work on.
Then the next thing she knew. She was back in the Saloon with Autum sitting at the table. Autum insisted, “Look around Suzy. You’ll need to fit in. Everything will need to be to the period. You can’t have anything out of place, and you need a plan. I can’t give it to you, so you’ll have to work it out to change as little as possible. Remember every change will send a ripple through the time passages.”
Just then the door to the house flew open with a bang, and everyone looked at the house. The curtains flew and the Witch appeared in the doorway laughing. Then she faded away.
Malinda questioned, “Did you see that or was it just me?”
At the same time Jim and Suzy replied, “Oh yah we saw that.”
Malinda exclaimed, “I think we pissed her off. Not good, not good at all.”
Then it got cold and an eerie fog moved in. It was so thick everything started to fade away. Malinda jumped in her car. Backed it up and turned it around. Then she sped down the driveway. Her taillights disappeared as Jim insisted, “Let’s get out of here.”
Suzy agreed as they got in her car and took off. On the road they drove out of the fog and saw Malinda up ahead. They followed her to town where she stopped at the Keyhole bar and grill.
Inside they sat across from Malinda in a booth. Malinda ordered a double Mudslide as Jim questioned, “Why did you take off like that?”
Malinda took a deep breath as she confessed, “I see and hear things other people don’t even know about. Autum would not stop talking and it was making it hard to think. Nothing felt right to me. Autum has a strange magic about her. I have never experienced anything like it before.
Then when the Witch appeared Autum raised her hand and a ball of bright swirling energy appeared. Then she threw the ball of bright flashing colored light at the Witch. The ball exploded surrounding the Witch with flashes of light like a sparkler. It was like the Witch was surrounded by millions of tiny flickering stars.”
The waitress set the Mudslide on the table with a smile. Malinda picked up the drink and chugged half it down. Wiping her face with a napkin she continued, “As the Witched laughed Autum threw two more of the bright swirling balls. Then Autum looked right at me and yelled go! The sound echoed through my head, and I knew I had to get out of there.”
Malinda took another drink as Suzy stared at her intensely and Jim mumbled, “What the…”
“I know Jim. That’s what I’m thinking,” Malinda replied.
Drinking down the last of her Mudslide Malinda questioned, “When did you move out Jim?”
Jim replied, “I’m still living there Malinda.”
Malinda insisted, “No! No! Get out of there. Don’t go back in that house. When I found out Suzy wasn’t the new owner and you hadn’t passed or sold the place. I didn’t know what to think, but I can tell you this. I won’t go back there, and you should stay out of the house too. Don’t remove any of Autum’s stuff. Just leave everything as it is.”
The waitress came and picked up the empty glass. Then she questioned, “Can I get you anything else?”
Malinda questioned, “Can I get one of you to take me back to the Hotel?”
Jim replied, “Sure.”
Then Malinda looked at the waitress and informed, “I’ll have another double please.”
Looking at Jim and Suzy the waitress question, “And what will you have?”
Jim replied, “Just coffee for me.”
Suzy insisted, “The same for me.”
With that the waitress left and Malinda continued, “The house is where everything comes from. I do believe that’s where the spell was cast. In fact I believe a lot of spells were cast there. I’m putting that house on my top ten places to never go.
However there is one thing I wanted to warn you about. If you build the truck there will be consequences if you succeed. It will send a wake through the time passages. I know nothing about this kind of thing, but I do know everything comes at a price.”
Then the waitress set down their drinks, and Jim questioned, “You said Autum would not stop talking. What was she telling you?”
Malinda acknowledged, “It was about Suzy. She was telling me that Clara was Suzy’s mother, and how she died. Autum told me that that Clara and her husband had come to see your mom and dad. On their way home they went off the road at that same curve where Autum was killed. A fencepost came through the windshield and when the car hit the tree it drove the post into Clara’s head killing her. Then the car flipped up on end. This made a branch go through the driver’s window and into John’s head.”
A tear ran down Suzy’s face as Malinda mentioned, “Oh Suzy I’m sorry. I thought you knew.”
Suzy whimpered, “No, I just knew that they died in a car crash, but not how or why.”
Jim wiped a tear from Suzy’s cheek as he whispered, “We got each other.”
Malinda continued, “It’s the alcohol. I tend to ramble on when I drink, but it’s the only time I’m free of them. Let me see if I can help you a little. This is what will work.
Like garlic and salt, water is one of the common substances widely held to have special powers. Among other things, this means it can be used to protect you against various, and anything evil cannot cross water such as a bad witch. Almost always, the water must be moving. Rain, the ocean or, a lake may or may not qualify.
There are Water Demons that can only move around in water, but you don’t have that. What you should do is run a hose around the house and overlap it at the ends. Turn the water on and let it run. This will trap the Witch in the house. To keep it from flooding the place you might get a circulation pump to pump the water around the house.
Then put a thick layer of salt around the house. If you do this it should be safe to go there, but not in the house. Unfortunately if Autum is in the house she might be trapped too. I’m not sure about that because Autum’s not evil. I believe she is here out of love for you Jim. It’s that love bond that is keeping her here, and it’s you Jim that has to set her free.
I’m sorry. I’m feeling the alcohol and rambling on, but you need all the weapons you can use. It might not hurt to ware garlic around your neck when you’re there. Now I think it’s time to go. I need to sleep this off.
Jim drove Malinda and the rental car to the hotel, and Suzy followed in her Neon. Then Suzy took Jim back to her house. On the way Suzy divulged, “I’m cooking us some dinner tonight.”
Jim was silent and didn’t say a word. He was drowning in his thoughts of what Malinda had told him. Suzy stopped at the store, and Jim stayed in the car thinking, I miss Autum so much. Malinda told me love was keeping her here. Is it me, is it her, or is it both of us? Is our love just that strong, or am I not letting go?
Just then the car door opened, and Suzy put a bag in the backseat. Getting in she commented, “Hope you like vegetables.”
Jim snapped out of his thinking and replied, “I like most of them.”
At Suzy’s house Jim set at the kitchen table, as Suzy took the vegetables from the bag. She piled them up across from Jim. Then pulling out a bag of coffee she commented, “You’ll love this.”
Then she started looking through the cupboards and cursed, “Damn it no filter. Paper-towel it is then.”
Pushing a paper-towel in the coffee pot she poured some coffee on it. Then put in the water. Pulling a knife from a drawer she pointed it at Jim and demanded, “Tell me your deepest darkest secrets.”
Looking at the dark black and blue spot on her head Jim replied, “You already know all of them. Just look in the mirror and you can see what kind of person I am.”
Suzy snapped back, “Don’t even go there Jim. You had nothing to do with this. It was the Witch and you know it. Didn’t you hear Malinda when she said your love was keeping Autum here? I want that kind of love in my life. Why do you think Autum is trying to protect me? I’ll tell you why. It’s because I’m a part of you and her love for you is that strong.”
Suzy pulled the cutting board from the counter, and sat across from Jim. Chopping the vegetables as she continued, “My grandpa had that kind of love. He would do anything for me, and he did. He taught me when too much is happening to fast. You have to step back and slow down a little. What he would tell me is, “It’s time to put the top back on the beehive and let them calm down a little.” That’s what time it is now Jim. We need to put the top back on the beehive.”
Jim said, “We need to go slow or I’ll be left behind. I got all this stuff in my head, and it takes time to know what’s right.”
Suzy cutup the chicken as she insisted “Put the lid on the beehive Jim. We’ll take it one thing at a time.
Suzy put a large cast-iron pan on the stove, and poured in some oil. Then she added the chicken. When it was done she put in the vegetables, and poured in a bottle of stir-fry sauce. Looking at Jim she explained, “The trick is not to cook it too long. If we let that happen it turns into soup.”
Jim smiled and proclaimed, “Anything would be better than the burned up pot-pies I’ve been eating.”
Suzy joked, “Hang with me kid and you’ll learn what a one-pan meal is.”
Suzy put a hot pad on the table and set the cast-iron pan on it. Then she put two plates and forks on the table. “That’s it dig in Jim,” Suzy demanded.
Eating Suzy explained, “You’re sleeping in my bed tonight, I need the chair. I have to spend some time with grandpa. That was his chair, and yes I lied and said it was mine. Like the truck I had to keep it. It was a part of him I wanted to remember. After a day like today I need some thinking time. Tomorrow we’ll get you a bed and move some boxes so you can stay here. I’m not letting you go back to that house.”
Jim questioned. “What about the truck?”
Suzy smiled, “Nothing has changed Jim. We just need to put the hose around the house, and the salt. We have to keep track of Steve too. He’s going to want to get paid on Friday. I’ m thinking about all the stuff we need to do. You just need to do the truck, and I’ll take care of everything else.”
Jim divulged, “I’ve been thinking about Autum. If we do this what will happen to her? If she’s trapped in the house can she cast the spell from there?”
Suzy squinted her eyes and replied, “I’m working on it Jim. You just worry about the truck. I have Malinda’s number and we will have a plan for that.”
After they ate they did the dishes, Suzy went to the chair, and Jim went to the bed room. Looking around Jim saw the bed, a dresser, and a desk with a computer. He thought, this doesn’t look like a person that just inherited millions.
Looking at the TV on the dresser he saw the remote setting in front of it. Taking it he turned on the TV. After thumbing through a few channels he turned it off. He was just to wound-up to sit still, so he turned on the computer.
Looking at the password screen he yelled, “What’s the password?”
“Your Name,” echoed from the other room.
Jim shook his head and typed Jim, nothing, so he tried typing Jim Hanson and nothing again. He yelled again, “It’s not working.”
“What did you type?” echoed from the other room.
Jim replied, “I tried Jim and Jim Hanson, but neither worked.”
Suzy hollered, “I said your name! You know Y O U R N A M E.”
“Ok I got it,” Jim replied.
Jim found some replica split rims they were expensive. Jim thought, she said she was a millionaire. He printed the page, and looked for the right tires. Soon he had a stack of things he needed. Looking at the time Jim saw it was 3:00 AM. With a yawn Jim got in bed.
In the chair Suzy was dreaming about her grandpa. They were sitting in the truck going to a magical place. He told her it was a place time had long forgotten. Everything moves slower here. That’s what you need to do now is take it slow. One thing at a time is how you do it. It’s ok to have a bunch of pokers in the fire, but like the blacksmith you only pull out one at a time to work on.
Then the next thing she knew. She was back in the Saloon with Autum sitting at the table. Autum insisted, “Look around Suzy. You’ll need to fit in. Everything will need to be to the period. You can’t have anything out of place, and you need a plan. I can’t give it to you, so you’ll have to work it out to change as little as possible. Remember every change will send a ripple through the time passages.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Then like the flip of a switch Suzy was awake. Sitting up in the chair she mumbled, “Thanks grandpa. I got the lid on the beehive and it’s one thing at a time. Autum I’m not sure about what to do with what you’re telling me, but be assured I’ll figure it out.”
Jim felt his head moving around and awoke. Opening his eyes he saw Suzy bent over him rubbing his head. With a towel wrapped around her head, and her face in front of his. She exclaimed, “Wake up sleepy head. It’s time to go to work.” Stepping back she continued, “I see you printed some stuff out.”
Jim yawn, “Just some things I need for the truck.”
Suzy informed, “I’ll get the coffee going, and you can get ready.”
In the kitchen Suzy poured the leftover coffee from the night before in a pan. Then put it on the stove. Then hearing Jim in the shower she went to her room. She grabbed her messenger bag next to the desk, and picked up what Jim printed out. Back in the kitchen she poured a cup of coffee and sat at the table. Then she opened the case and put in the pages Jim printed, and pulled out a note book. Then she started making a list.
Looking up as Jim came in and poured a cup of coffee. Then he sat at the table as Suzy commented, “Dang Jim we need to fix your clothing. You can’t go back to your house and change your clothes, and you can’t wear the same stuff every day. We’re going shopping first thing today.
That was what they did. They went to Wall-Mart and Suzy got him ten or more of everything. Socks, underwear, shirts, and pants were in the cart. Suzy looked at Jim and asked, “Anything else?”
Jim smiled, “How about a tie?”
Suzy punched him in the shoulder and joked, “You might hang yourself with that. After the penetrating oil incident I’m not letting you tie something around your neck.”
Suzy put her arm around Jim and leaned her head on his shoulder. Then she whispered, “Thank you Jim after yesterday I needed that.”
At the register the guy in front of them thought, Look at that dirty scrungy guy with that hot redhead. Why do that kind of people always get the good looking chicks.
Jim told Suzy, “You shouldn’t get so close to me the penetrating oil from yesterday might get on your dress.”
Suzy laughed, “Heck Jim you think I can’t smell it. You stink, but you’re family. Besides I can buy a new dress if I wreck this one.”
Just then Jim’s phone went off, “Hello, Oh I see, OK I’ll take care of it.”
Suzy questioned, “Who was that?”
Jim replied, “It was Steve. When he filled the tractor this morning he check the level in the tank, and I need to get some more diesel delivered.”
There next stop was the furniture store. They got a twin bed and a dresser for Jim, and made arrangements for delivery.
“Where now,” Jim asked,
“To your bank to add me to your account,” Suzy replied.
Jim blurted, “What!”
Comely Suzy proclaimed, “It’s OK Jim. This is just business. I’m not trying to take your money or something. When we get there just introduce me as your accountant. I’ll take care of the rest, and you don’t have to sign anything you don’t want to.”
Jim mumbled, “Whatever.”
Suzy questioned, “What bank is it?”
Jim mumbled,” It’s the First Trust in Dention.”
Suzy replied, “OK then it’s back to your little hick town.”
They walked into the bank and Jim took Suzy to the account manager’s desk. Then he announced, “Kim this is my accountant Suzy. Suzy this is Kim.”
They both had a seat as Suzy requested, “I need a copy of the payoff for the loan, and his account balance.”
She typed some on the computer. Then pages were printing across the room. Walking over she pulled the pages from the printer. Then she came back to her desk. Using her pen she put a circle on the page, and handed it to Suzy. Then doing the same to the other page she handed it to Suzy.
Suzy commented, “Why Jim you have a bunch of money in your account.”
Jim replied, “For gas, seed, and pot pies.”
Suzy pulled the strap of her messenger bag from her shoulder and announced, “I see the lone is a little over $273,000. We’ll be paying that off today.”
Jim sat straight up in his chair, and Kim’s eyes opened wide as she responded, “I’ll get the paper work.”
Suzy pulled her check book from her messenger bag. Then looking at Jim Suzy suggested, “I’m going to put $10,000 in your account for paying Steve and whatever. We need to order some checks, and get a few counter checks to pay Steve with.”
Kim laid down the paper work and picked up the check. Then she went back to the other side of the bank by the tellers. Then she got on the phone as the tellers whispered and pointed at Jim.
Just then Suzy’s phone went off. She smiled at Jim as she answered, “Hello, Yes I did. I’m here now. Thank you.” Looking at Jim she informed, “Making sure I wrote that check.”
Kim came back and informed, “It all looks good. Just need Jim to sign where I put the marks.”
Jim told Kim he needed a few counter checks and to order some new checks. Kim told him they came four to a page. Then she asked, “Do you want me to take Autum’s name off the account Jim? You still haven’t done that yet.”
Suzy spoke up, “No, she’s a part of this as much as any of us.”
Looking at Jim Kim said, “But…”
Jim held his finger to his lips to say quiet.
Then he said, “Add Suzy to the account. She will be doing all my business from now on.”
Kim looked shocked and agreed, “I’ll do that.”
Then she went back to the other side of the bank by the tellers. They all gathered around as Kim pulled the paper work. One teller commented, “Looks like Jim found a rich one.” Another added, “Maybe he thinks if he doesn’t merry her the curse won’t happen.”
Kim scolded, “Get back to work.”
Walking out of the bank Jim remarked, “You know this is going to send shockwaves through this whole town. Within a week everyone will know about you.”
Suzy stopped Jim right there. With the tellers looking out the window Suzy insisted, “Jim you were over a quarter million in debt. Now you’re free of that. Doesn’t that deserve a hug?”
Jim wrapped his arms around Suzy as she held him tight. She watched the tellers over Jim’s shoulder as she whispered, “I must tell you I’m selfish. I want this to happen so bad I can taste it.”
Jim slipped away and stared at Suzy. Then he questioned, “Are you coming on to me?”
Suzy socked Jim in the shoulder and questioned, “Is that all guy’s think of? Just think about it Jim. If we succeed the curse will be gone. All the people it killed will live on. My mom and dad, your mom and dad, and of course Autum will all still be here.”
Suzy pulled the strap up for her messenger bag, as Jim put his elbow out. She took his arm and Jim walked to the car holding his head high. At the car he waived at the tellers as they scattered. Looking over the car he insisted, “I need to go see Fred about delivering some more diesel fuel.”
Suzy replied as she got in the car, “Then we can go see the contractor well we’re in town.”
Jim agreed, “Works for me.”
Suzy looked at Jim and a tear was running down his cheek. Tenderly she questioned, “What’s happening Jim?”
Jim whimpered, “I just wanted the truck. Then you took me on this wild crazy ride. So much is happening, and now you open the door to what will be if we succeed. It’s just all too much.”
Suzy took a deep breath and said, “Put the lid back on the beehive Jim. Remember one thing at a time.”
They stopped and Jim ordered the fuel then went to the construction company. Walking in the door a man said, “Hi Suzy.”
Suzy replied, “Hi Dan. This is Jim Hanson.”
Dan replied, “Oh good the check cleared and I have the contract right over here. You know Jim she’s hard to bargain with. The contract is just as you wished. Do the job in six weeks and get a ten thousand bonus then there’s a thousand a day penalty for every day after that.”
Setting the contract on the counter Dan instructed, “Just sign it down here Jim.”
Suzy looked it over then requested, “I need a few more things like a porta-potty out there.”
Dan smiled, “Already there. The dozer was there this morning and the gravel should be there. The forms for the concrete pad should be done today. Is there anything else?”
Suzy explained, “I need a pump hooked to a tank so I can pump water through a hose and back into the tank. Can you get something like that?”
Dan assured, “Sure, is this for a fish pond or something.”
Suzy replied, “Something like that Dan. No cheap stuff . Get the best. Call me as soon as you get it and I’ll bring in a check.”
Not a problem. You folks have a good day,” Dan said as they went out the door.
At the store the rumor had already spread. One clerk was telling, “He went into the bank looking like a bum that hadn’t changed his clothes in a week. He was acting like he was a millionaire with some knockout gorgeous chick.”
Suzy pulled into the feed and seed. Bruce saw Jim and Suzy coming up the stairs to the loading dock. Looking at his wife he exclaimed, “Kim come look at the bruise on this gal’s head.”
Kim replied, “You think it’s the curse?”
“Hi Jim,” Bruce announced.
Jim replied, “Hi Bruce.” Looking at Kim standing behind Bruce Jim acknowledged, “Kim.” Then he introduced Suzy.
Bruce Questioned, “You here to put in your seed order.”
Jim replied, “That and I need some salt.”
Walking back into the warehouse Bruce questioned, “Like a salt block.”
Suzy looked at Kim and insisted, “Let’s go do the seed order,”
Suzy and Kim walked to the office as Jim continued, “No I need rock salt.”
Bruce stopped in his tracks, “Hell Jim winter’s over. What do you need that for?”
Jim dropped his head and mumbled, “I need a pallet.”
“What!” Bruce shouted. “That’s 49 50 lb Bags and over a ton of salt. What in the hell you doing with that? Never mind I don’t want to know. I sale it for $10 a bag let’s say $500 and I deliver it. I think I can get it here next Wednesday if that works for you.”
Jim replied, “Works for me.”
In the office Kim questioned, “Same barley order as last year?”
Suzy Insisted, “No wheat. We need 500 bushels of seed.”
Kim commented, “Jim doesn’t have a combine, and you can’t bail wheat.”
Suzy opened her messenger bag and pulled out her check book.
Out in the warehouse Bruce questioned, “So who’s the good looking gal Jim.”
Jim replied, “That’s my Accountant.”
Bruce went on, “Oh good. I just didn’t want to see you be hurt so soon after what happened to Autum. You know with the curse and all.”
Jim confessed, “Not a chance of that happening now.”
Bruce admitted, “We heard that someone seen you at the bar with that psychic from the TV,”
Jim nodded, “Yep.”
Walking in the office Bruce announced, “Add another $500 to Jim’s bill.”
Kim tolled up the bill and Suzy made out a check. After Jim and Suzy went out the door Kim whispered, “What did you find out from Jim, Bruce?”
Bruce replied, “He told me she was his accountant, and he did meet with the psychic. He’s tight lipped about whatever is going on. What did you get from that red head?”
Kim divulged, “Nothing, she’s very professional and all business.”
In the car Suzy questioned, “Is that it for this hick town?”
Jim replied, “As far as I know.”
Jim felt his head moving around and awoke. Opening his eyes he saw Suzy bent over him rubbing his head. With a towel wrapped around her head, and her face in front of his. She exclaimed, “Wake up sleepy head. It’s time to go to work.” Stepping back she continued, “I see you printed some stuff out.”
Jim yawn, “Just some things I need for the truck.”
Suzy informed, “I’ll get the coffee going, and you can get ready.”
In the kitchen Suzy poured the leftover coffee from the night before in a pan. Then put it on the stove. Then hearing Jim in the shower she went to her room. She grabbed her messenger bag next to the desk, and picked up what Jim printed out. Back in the kitchen she poured a cup of coffee and sat at the table. Then she opened the case and put in the pages Jim printed, and pulled out a note book. Then she started making a list.
Looking up as Jim came in and poured a cup of coffee. Then he sat at the table as Suzy commented, “Dang Jim we need to fix your clothing. You can’t go back to your house and change your clothes, and you can’t wear the same stuff every day. We’re going shopping first thing today.
That was what they did. They went to Wall-Mart and Suzy got him ten or more of everything. Socks, underwear, shirts, and pants were in the cart. Suzy looked at Jim and asked, “Anything else?”
Jim smiled, “How about a tie?”
Suzy punched him in the shoulder and joked, “You might hang yourself with that. After the penetrating oil incident I’m not letting you tie something around your neck.”
Suzy put her arm around Jim and leaned her head on his shoulder. Then she whispered, “Thank you Jim after yesterday I needed that.”
At the register the guy in front of them thought, Look at that dirty scrungy guy with that hot redhead. Why do that kind of people always get the good looking chicks.
Jim told Suzy, “You shouldn’t get so close to me the penetrating oil from yesterday might get on your dress.”
Suzy laughed, “Heck Jim you think I can’t smell it. You stink, but you’re family. Besides I can buy a new dress if I wreck this one.”
Just then Jim’s phone went off, “Hello, Oh I see, OK I’ll take care of it.”
Suzy questioned, “Who was that?”
Jim replied, “It was Steve. When he filled the tractor this morning he check the level in the tank, and I need to get some more diesel delivered.”
There next stop was the furniture store. They got a twin bed and a dresser for Jim, and made arrangements for delivery.
“Where now,” Jim asked,
“To your bank to add me to your account,” Suzy replied.
Jim blurted, “What!”
Comely Suzy proclaimed, “It’s OK Jim. This is just business. I’m not trying to take your money or something. When we get there just introduce me as your accountant. I’ll take care of the rest, and you don’t have to sign anything you don’t want to.”
Jim mumbled, “Whatever.”
Suzy questioned, “What bank is it?”
Jim mumbled,” It’s the First Trust in Dention.”
Suzy replied, “OK then it’s back to your little hick town.”
They walked into the bank and Jim took Suzy to the account manager’s desk. Then he announced, “Kim this is my accountant Suzy. Suzy this is Kim.”
They both had a seat as Suzy requested, “I need a copy of the payoff for the loan, and his account balance.”
She typed some on the computer. Then pages were printing across the room. Walking over she pulled the pages from the printer. Then she came back to her desk. Using her pen she put a circle on the page, and handed it to Suzy. Then doing the same to the other page she handed it to Suzy.
Suzy commented, “Why Jim you have a bunch of money in your account.”
Jim replied, “For gas, seed, and pot pies.”
Suzy pulled the strap of her messenger bag from her shoulder and announced, “I see the lone is a little over $273,000. We’ll be paying that off today.”
Jim sat straight up in his chair, and Kim’s eyes opened wide as she responded, “I’ll get the paper work.”
Suzy pulled her check book from her messenger bag. Then looking at Jim Suzy suggested, “I’m going to put $10,000 in your account for paying Steve and whatever. We need to order some checks, and get a few counter checks to pay Steve with.”
Kim laid down the paper work and picked up the check. Then she went back to the other side of the bank by the tellers. Then she got on the phone as the tellers whispered and pointed at Jim.
Just then Suzy’s phone went off. She smiled at Jim as she answered, “Hello, Yes I did. I’m here now. Thank you.” Looking at Jim she informed, “Making sure I wrote that check.”
Kim came back and informed, “It all looks good. Just need Jim to sign where I put the marks.”
Jim told Kim he needed a few counter checks and to order some new checks. Kim told him they came four to a page. Then she asked, “Do you want me to take Autum’s name off the account Jim? You still haven’t done that yet.”
Suzy spoke up, “No, she’s a part of this as much as any of us.”
Looking at Jim Kim said, “But…”
Jim held his finger to his lips to say quiet.
Then he said, “Add Suzy to the account. She will be doing all my business from now on.”
Kim looked shocked and agreed, “I’ll do that.”
Then she went back to the other side of the bank by the tellers. They all gathered around as Kim pulled the paper work. One teller commented, “Looks like Jim found a rich one.” Another added, “Maybe he thinks if he doesn’t merry her the curse won’t happen.”
Kim scolded, “Get back to work.”
Walking out of the bank Jim remarked, “You know this is going to send shockwaves through this whole town. Within a week everyone will know about you.”
Suzy stopped Jim right there. With the tellers looking out the window Suzy insisted, “Jim you were over a quarter million in debt. Now you’re free of that. Doesn’t that deserve a hug?”
Jim wrapped his arms around Suzy as she held him tight. She watched the tellers over Jim’s shoulder as she whispered, “I must tell you I’m selfish. I want this to happen so bad I can taste it.”
Jim slipped away and stared at Suzy. Then he questioned, “Are you coming on to me?”
Suzy socked Jim in the shoulder and questioned, “Is that all guy’s think of? Just think about it Jim. If we succeed the curse will be gone. All the people it killed will live on. My mom and dad, your mom and dad, and of course Autum will all still be here.”
Suzy pulled the strap up for her messenger bag, as Jim put his elbow out. She took his arm and Jim walked to the car holding his head high. At the car he waived at the tellers as they scattered. Looking over the car he insisted, “I need to go see Fred about delivering some more diesel fuel.”
Suzy replied as she got in the car, “Then we can go see the contractor well we’re in town.”
Jim agreed, “Works for me.”
Suzy looked at Jim and a tear was running down his cheek. Tenderly she questioned, “What’s happening Jim?”
Jim whimpered, “I just wanted the truck. Then you took me on this wild crazy ride. So much is happening, and now you open the door to what will be if we succeed. It’s just all too much.”
Suzy took a deep breath and said, “Put the lid back on the beehive Jim. Remember one thing at a time.”
They stopped and Jim ordered the fuel then went to the construction company. Walking in the door a man said, “Hi Suzy.”
Suzy replied, “Hi Dan. This is Jim Hanson.”
Dan replied, “Oh good the check cleared and I have the contract right over here. You know Jim she’s hard to bargain with. The contract is just as you wished. Do the job in six weeks and get a ten thousand bonus then there’s a thousand a day penalty for every day after that.”
Setting the contract on the counter Dan instructed, “Just sign it down here Jim.”
Suzy looked it over then requested, “I need a few more things like a porta-potty out there.”
Dan smiled, “Already there. The dozer was there this morning and the gravel should be there. The forms for the concrete pad should be done today. Is there anything else?”
Suzy explained, “I need a pump hooked to a tank so I can pump water through a hose and back into the tank. Can you get something like that?”
Dan assured, “Sure, is this for a fish pond or something.”
Suzy replied, “Something like that Dan. No cheap stuff . Get the best. Call me as soon as you get it and I’ll bring in a check.”
Not a problem. You folks have a good day,” Dan said as they went out the door.
At the store the rumor had already spread. One clerk was telling, “He went into the bank looking like a bum that hadn’t changed his clothes in a week. He was acting like he was a millionaire with some knockout gorgeous chick.”
Suzy pulled into the feed and seed. Bruce saw Jim and Suzy coming up the stairs to the loading dock. Looking at his wife he exclaimed, “Kim come look at the bruise on this gal’s head.”
Kim replied, “You think it’s the curse?”
“Hi Jim,” Bruce announced.
Jim replied, “Hi Bruce.” Looking at Kim standing behind Bruce Jim acknowledged, “Kim.” Then he introduced Suzy.
Bruce Questioned, “You here to put in your seed order.”
Jim replied, “That and I need some salt.”
Walking back into the warehouse Bruce questioned, “Like a salt block.”
Suzy looked at Kim and insisted, “Let’s go do the seed order,”
Suzy and Kim walked to the office as Jim continued, “No I need rock salt.”
Bruce stopped in his tracks, “Hell Jim winter’s over. What do you need that for?”
Jim dropped his head and mumbled, “I need a pallet.”
“What!” Bruce shouted. “That’s 49 50 lb Bags and over a ton of salt. What in the hell you doing with that? Never mind I don’t want to know. I sale it for $10 a bag let’s say $500 and I deliver it. I think I can get it here next Wednesday if that works for you.”
Jim replied, “Works for me.”
In the office Kim questioned, “Same barley order as last year?”
Suzy Insisted, “No wheat. We need 500 bushels of seed.”
Kim commented, “Jim doesn’t have a combine, and you can’t bail wheat.”
Suzy opened her messenger bag and pulled out her check book.
Out in the warehouse Bruce questioned, “So who’s the good looking gal Jim.”
Jim replied, “That’s my Accountant.”
Bruce went on, “Oh good. I just didn’t want to see you be hurt so soon after what happened to Autum. You know with the curse and all.”
Jim confessed, “Not a chance of that happening now.”
Bruce admitted, “We heard that someone seen you at the bar with that psychic from the TV,”
Jim nodded, “Yep.”
Walking in the office Bruce announced, “Add another $500 to Jim’s bill.”
Kim tolled up the bill and Suzy made out a check. After Jim and Suzy went out the door Kim whispered, “What did you find out from Jim, Bruce?”
Bruce replied, “He told me she was his accountant, and he did meet with the psychic. He’s tight lipped about whatever is going on. What did you get from that red head?”
Kim divulged, “Nothing, she’s very professional and all business.”
In the car Suzy questioned, “Is that it for this hick town?”
Jim replied, “As far as I know.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Five – The Shop
Suzy pulled out onto the street as she informed, “Not bad for a half a day’s work. Now it’s back to the house to clear out a spot for your bed.”
On the drive back to Lambert Jim questioned, “What’s on the schedule for tomorrow?”
Suzy replied, “First thing we need to do is go to the farm and pay Steve. I was thinking we should give him a bonus. We don’t want to lose him, and he’s been running the whole show by himself.”
Jim agreed, “That sounds good to me. Then what after that?”
Suzy responded, “Then we could go to the Cow Girl’s for breakfast. I would also like to check out the Museum in town.”
Jim replied, “You mean Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse? That’s what it was for almost 100 years. If you haven’t been there then you should go. I’d like to see it again too. I haven’t been there since I was young.”
Suzy questioned, “Which things do you need first from the stuff you printed out?”
Jim replied, “I would have to say the tires and Rim’s. I need to be able to move the truck around. The shredded pieces of rubber and rims on there now won’t work.”
Back at the house Jim and Suzy picked out a place for Jim’s bed. Then Jim started moving and stacking boxes. Suzy suggested, “You can clean out this spot and wait for the bed, and I’m going to go see about getting the tires for the truck.”
Jim agreed, “Go down to that big place on Grand.”
Suzy nodded and left.
At the tire store Suzy showed the sales clerk the tires and rim’s she wanted. He looked on the computer and disclosed, “It’s going to take about two weeks to get the tires. I have to have them shipped out of Texas. The rims don’t look any different. Looks like I can get some from Portland and the rest out of Seattle.”
Suzy questioned, “Can’t we get them like 2 or 3 day shipped?
The clerk questioned. “Do you have an account?”
Suzy replied, “Check Jim Hanson.”
He typed on the computer and disclosed, “You’re not going to like it. It looks like it will be over $500 for shipping the tires and close to that for the rims.”
Suzy slipped her messenger bag from her shoulder. Then she announced, “I’ll expect them mounted and balanced by next Wednesday.”
The clerk Insisted, “I’ll need a large deposit on a special order like that.”
Suzy responded, “I’ll pay for it all. Just give me the price.”
The clerk’s eyes opened wide “Let me call the warehouse in Taxes.” After spending a few on the phone he went back to the computer. Then some paper work started printing out. Pulling the documents from the printer he walked to the counter. Then pointing at the price he disclosed, “This is it right here.”
Pulling out her checkbook she added, “I’m putting another $500 on the account. I need a truck out to the farm tomorrow. We can’t get the old wheels off, and I need your guy to do it for us.”
The clerk questioned, “Do you know when they were last off?”
Suzy smiled, “World War Two maybe”
The clerk replied, “Oh, I’ll tell him, so tomorrow and Wednesday it is.”
Walking out the door Suzy called Jim. “Hello,” Echoed over Suzy’s phone.
She questioned, “Did the bed come yet?”
Jim replied, “I’m putting it together now.”
Suzy inquired, “How about pizza for something to eat?”
Jim replied, “That works.”
Then Suzy was off to get the pizza and head home.
At the house Suzy held the pizza in one hand, and turned the knob with the other. Giving the door a kick with her foot she yelled, “Pizza’s here!”
Stepping through the door she could see Jim sitting in grandpa’s chair looking at his phone. Jumping up from the chair Jim took the pizza, and headed to the kitchen. Suzy slipped the messenger bag from her shoulder, and took it to her room.
Coming in the kitchen Suzy saw the pizza box open on the table, and Jim was already eating a slice. Suzy exclaimed, “You wait like one hog waits for another.”
With his mouth full Jim mumbled, “I was starving and the only thing in the refrigerator was that outdated milk and water bottles. I already ate the last of your cookies.”
Suzy picked up a peace of pizza and spoke, “I know we need to do shopping. After we eat we’ll get your clothes out of the car. I can’t stand the smell of that penetrating oil. I don’t think I’ll ever get that smell out of the car. Then we need to go to Home Depot and get the hose to put around the house. After that we can stop at the store and get some food for the house. Dose that work for you?”
Jim responded, “Sounds good to me.”
Suzy added, “When you take off your clothing put it in the trash-can outside.”
The next morning Jim and Suzy pulled into the farm about 6:00 AM. Steve was by the barn fueling the tractor. They could see the ground across from the house was leveled and graveled. The concrete forms were in, and the porta-potty was by the barn.
Jim walked up behind Steve and commented, “It’s looking good Steve. You should be done plowing next week.”
Steve replied, “I’m thinking I should be done with this next Tuesday or Wednesday. Then I’ll start disking it. I can do that in a little higher gear, and should be done with that Monday or Tuesday the following week. Then I can get on to seed.”
Jim informed, “Suzy ordered the seed. We’ll be planting wheat. You know how to set up the seeder for that?”
Steve assured, “I got it under control.”
Suzy handed Steve the check. Looking it over he questioned, “You sure this is right?”
Suzy replied, “Just a little bonus for doing a good job. We just want you to keep it up.”
Steve smiled, “No problem I got your back on this. I did want to take off for a couple hours this afternoon to take the check to the bank. That’s if that’s OK?”
Jim chuckled, “You’re the boss Steve. Just get the crop in is all we ask.”
Steve laughed, “OK Boss, by the way that’s a killer stereo you put on that thing.”
Jim smiled, “I know.”
Just then a truck pulled in, and Jim saw it said B&B Construction. Then Dan got out and walked over to Jim and Suzy. Jim questioned, “You come to check your job Dan?”
Dan replied, “Nope, meting the inspector this morning. We’re going to pour the footings and slab this afternoon.”
Jim responded, “Wow that was fast. You don’t waste any time do you?”
Dan continued, “I can’t afford to with Miss want it done yesterday there. That and I have to wait two weeks for the concrete to cure before we can build on it. By the way I sent a guy to Boise to get the pump today. He should have it mounted to the tank sometime Monday afternoon. If you want you can swing by the shop and pick it up.”
Jim agreed, “Sounds good to me.”
Then the service truck from the tire store pulled in with the county truck right behind him. Jim walked over to the barn, as Dan went to meet the inspector. He pushed the barn door open, and the service truck parked in front of the truck. A young kid about 20 or so jumped from the cab. Looking at the old 1945 Diamond-T he commented, “I take it this is the beast?”
Jim replied, “Yep, I have some blocking over here for when you get them off, and there is more alongside the barn,”
The young man confessed, “I might have to use a nut splitter, and I’ll most likely break off some studs.”
Jim assured, “Whatever it takes. I’m going to replace all the studs anyway.”
The young man questioned, “You want me to go ahead and order new studs for you.”
Jim replied, “Sure.” Then Jim turned to Suzy and questioned, “You ready to go get something to eat?”
Suzy’s eyes opened wide and she blurted, “Oh my god I just saw the witch watching me from the window.”
Jim turned and looked, but saw nothing. Then looking at Suzy he declared, “Let’s go.”
Suzy wasted no time getting in the car. She couldn’t wait to get away from the farm. At the restaurant Suzy told Jim about the dream she had last night. She told him how Autum took her on a tour of Dention in the 1870’s. She told him how she went to the stables and saw the Stable Master. Next to it was the Black Smith shop run by Albert. Across the street was the dress shop run by Mable. We went to the trading post and store. That’s where Emily works as a store clerk. Then Autum pointed out Albert going into the store, and told me he was the Sheriff.
Like a flash I was sitting at the dinner table in the Boardinghouse. The Seamstress, Black Smith, store clerk, and stable master were all having dinner. There was this eccentric named Benjamin. He was telling some wild story, and everyone was laughing. There was this other woman Rebecca. She was a news reporter and columnist for the Lambert Times.
Suzy gasped, “Then I heard Autum say remember. With the word remember echoing in my head I woke.”
Jim just stared at Suzy. Then he spoke, “How come you get all the good dreams?”
Suzy smiled, “I don’t know Jim, but I won’t lie it was a cool dream. I do know it was Autum because the dream was so real. She’s showing me things for a reason.”
Suzy pulled out onto the street as she informed, “Not bad for a half a day’s work. Now it’s back to the house to clear out a spot for your bed.”
On the drive back to Lambert Jim questioned, “What’s on the schedule for tomorrow?”
Suzy replied, “First thing we need to do is go to the farm and pay Steve. I was thinking we should give him a bonus. We don’t want to lose him, and he’s been running the whole show by himself.”
Jim agreed, “That sounds good to me. Then what after that?”
Suzy responded, “Then we could go to the Cow Girl’s for breakfast. I would also like to check out the Museum in town.”
Jim replied, “You mean Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse? That’s what it was for almost 100 years. If you haven’t been there then you should go. I’d like to see it again too. I haven’t been there since I was young.”
Suzy questioned, “Which things do you need first from the stuff you printed out?”
Jim replied, “I would have to say the tires and Rim’s. I need to be able to move the truck around. The shredded pieces of rubber and rims on there now won’t work.”
Back at the house Jim and Suzy picked out a place for Jim’s bed. Then Jim started moving and stacking boxes. Suzy suggested, “You can clean out this spot and wait for the bed, and I’m going to go see about getting the tires for the truck.”
Jim agreed, “Go down to that big place on Grand.”
Suzy nodded and left.
At the tire store Suzy showed the sales clerk the tires and rim’s she wanted. He looked on the computer and disclosed, “It’s going to take about two weeks to get the tires. I have to have them shipped out of Texas. The rims don’t look any different. Looks like I can get some from Portland and the rest out of Seattle.”
Suzy questioned, “Can’t we get them like 2 or 3 day shipped?
The clerk questioned. “Do you have an account?”
Suzy replied, “Check Jim Hanson.”
He typed on the computer and disclosed, “You’re not going to like it. It looks like it will be over $500 for shipping the tires and close to that for the rims.”
Suzy slipped her messenger bag from her shoulder. Then she announced, “I’ll expect them mounted and balanced by next Wednesday.”
The clerk Insisted, “I’ll need a large deposit on a special order like that.”
Suzy responded, “I’ll pay for it all. Just give me the price.”
The clerk’s eyes opened wide “Let me call the warehouse in Taxes.” After spending a few on the phone he went back to the computer. Then some paper work started printing out. Pulling the documents from the printer he walked to the counter. Then pointing at the price he disclosed, “This is it right here.”
Pulling out her checkbook she added, “I’m putting another $500 on the account. I need a truck out to the farm tomorrow. We can’t get the old wheels off, and I need your guy to do it for us.”
The clerk questioned, “Do you know when they were last off?”
Suzy smiled, “World War Two maybe”
The clerk replied, “Oh, I’ll tell him, so tomorrow and Wednesday it is.”
Walking out the door Suzy called Jim. “Hello,” Echoed over Suzy’s phone.
She questioned, “Did the bed come yet?”
Jim replied, “I’m putting it together now.”
Suzy inquired, “How about pizza for something to eat?”
Jim replied, “That works.”
Then Suzy was off to get the pizza and head home.
At the house Suzy held the pizza in one hand, and turned the knob with the other. Giving the door a kick with her foot she yelled, “Pizza’s here!”
Stepping through the door she could see Jim sitting in grandpa’s chair looking at his phone. Jumping up from the chair Jim took the pizza, and headed to the kitchen. Suzy slipped the messenger bag from her shoulder, and took it to her room.
Coming in the kitchen Suzy saw the pizza box open on the table, and Jim was already eating a slice. Suzy exclaimed, “You wait like one hog waits for another.”
With his mouth full Jim mumbled, “I was starving and the only thing in the refrigerator was that outdated milk and water bottles. I already ate the last of your cookies.”
Suzy picked up a peace of pizza and spoke, “I know we need to do shopping. After we eat we’ll get your clothes out of the car. I can’t stand the smell of that penetrating oil. I don’t think I’ll ever get that smell out of the car. Then we need to go to Home Depot and get the hose to put around the house. After that we can stop at the store and get some food for the house. Dose that work for you?”
Jim responded, “Sounds good to me.”
Suzy added, “When you take off your clothing put it in the trash-can outside.”
The next morning Jim and Suzy pulled into the farm about 6:00 AM. Steve was by the barn fueling the tractor. They could see the ground across from the house was leveled and graveled. The concrete forms were in, and the porta-potty was by the barn.
Jim walked up behind Steve and commented, “It’s looking good Steve. You should be done plowing next week.”
Steve replied, “I’m thinking I should be done with this next Tuesday or Wednesday. Then I’ll start disking it. I can do that in a little higher gear, and should be done with that Monday or Tuesday the following week. Then I can get on to seed.”
Jim informed, “Suzy ordered the seed. We’ll be planting wheat. You know how to set up the seeder for that?”
Steve assured, “I got it under control.”
Suzy handed Steve the check. Looking it over he questioned, “You sure this is right?”
Suzy replied, “Just a little bonus for doing a good job. We just want you to keep it up.”
Steve smiled, “No problem I got your back on this. I did want to take off for a couple hours this afternoon to take the check to the bank. That’s if that’s OK?”
Jim chuckled, “You’re the boss Steve. Just get the crop in is all we ask.”
Steve laughed, “OK Boss, by the way that’s a killer stereo you put on that thing.”
Jim smiled, “I know.”
Just then a truck pulled in, and Jim saw it said B&B Construction. Then Dan got out and walked over to Jim and Suzy. Jim questioned, “You come to check your job Dan?”
Dan replied, “Nope, meting the inspector this morning. We’re going to pour the footings and slab this afternoon.”
Jim responded, “Wow that was fast. You don’t waste any time do you?”
Dan continued, “I can’t afford to with Miss want it done yesterday there. That and I have to wait two weeks for the concrete to cure before we can build on it. By the way I sent a guy to Boise to get the pump today. He should have it mounted to the tank sometime Monday afternoon. If you want you can swing by the shop and pick it up.”
Jim agreed, “Sounds good to me.”
Then the service truck from the tire store pulled in with the county truck right behind him. Jim walked over to the barn, as Dan went to meet the inspector. He pushed the barn door open, and the service truck parked in front of the truck. A young kid about 20 or so jumped from the cab. Looking at the old 1945 Diamond-T he commented, “I take it this is the beast?”
Jim replied, “Yep, I have some blocking over here for when you get them off, and there is more alongside the barn,”
The young man confessed, “I might have to use a nut splitter, and I’ll most likely break off some studs.”
Jim assured, “Whatever it takes. I’m going to replace all the studs anyway.”
The young man questioned, “You want me to go ahead and order new studs for you.”
Jim replied, “Sure.” Then Jim turned to Suzy and questioned, “You ready to go get something to eat?”
Suzy’s eyes opened wide and she blurted, “Oh my god I just saw the witch watching me from the window.”Jim turned and looked, but saw nothing. Then looking at Suzy he declared, “Let’s go.”
Suzy wasted no time getting in the car. She couldn’t wait to get away from the farm. At the restaurant Suzy told Jim about the dream she had last night. She told him how Autum took her on a tour of Dention in the 1870’s. She told him how she went to the stables and saw the Stable Master. Next to it was the Black Smith shop run by Albert. Across the street was the dress shop run by Mable. We went to the trading post and store. That’s where Emily works as a store clerk. Then Autum pointed out Albert going into the store, and told me he was the Sheriff.
Like a flash I was sitting at the dinner table in the Boardinghouse. The Seamstress, Black Smith, store clerk, and stable master were all having dinner. There was this eccentric named Benjamin. He was telling some wild story, and everyone was laughing. There was this other woman Rebecca. She was a news reporter and columnist for the Lambert Times.
Suzy gasped, “Then I heard Autum say remember. With the word remember echoing in my head I woke.”
Jim just stared at Suzy. Then he spoke, “How come you get all the good dreams?”
Suzy smiled, “I don’t know Jim, but I won’t lie it was a cool dream. I do know it was Autum because the dream was so real. She’s showing me things for a reason.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Six – The Boardinghouse
There next stop was the Museum.
The curator was setting at a little table just inside the door. Standing up she announced, “Welcome to Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse. The admission is $5 each.”
Jim handed her a twenty, and she gave Jim his change. Then she instructed, “You need to sign the guest book."
Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse museum
After that the tour began. The curator announced, “I’m Isabella and I’ll be your guide on this journey back through time. Miss Tomson’s father purchased this property about 1860. His daughter being 19 and not married made her father fear for her wellbeing. To solve this he commissioned the building of the Boardinghouse for his daughter. He had hoped it would get her a husband, but she never married. The first boarders could rent a room for about $5 per month with meals. She ran the Boardinghouse from its completion in 1864 until her death in 1902.
$30 was a lot of money back then! The average person made about a dollar a day, and that might have been a ten or twelve hour day. At that time, milk would have been about 8¢ a quart, which was also fairly expensive because dairy operations had not been modernized to optimize production. You could rent a room for about $5 per month, coffee was 12¢ a pound, sugar was 7 to 10¢ a pound, and flour was $3 per barrel or 4¢ a pound.
This first room is the Parlour what we would call the living room today. It was rarely used back in its day. This room was for birthday parties, Sunday guests, and Special Occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas. This is where they would put the Christmas tree.
Now we continue down the hall to the Great Room. This is where they would spend most of their time in the cold months. As you can see the kitchen and dining room was all one big room. The heat from the wood cook stove kept the room warm all winter long. We’ve restored the kitchen to the 1800’s, but the dining room wallpaper is from the 1920’s.
Suzy asked, “What’s this picture here on the wall.
The curator replied, “It’s a picture of the bed from Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse. They knew it had been there since the 1870’s, but there have been some dating problems. It has some signs of modern machinery being used on it. Some say it could have been from a repair, and others say it’s a fake,
About the bed itself it’s an Empire style and takes its name from the rule of the Emperor Napoleon I in the First French Empire. It flourished between 1800 and 1815 during the Consulate and the First French Empire periods, although its life span lasted until the late-1820s. It’s from France and it spread into much of Europe and the United States. How one got into Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse no one knows, but there is pictures of it there in the 1920’s. If we just step down the hall you can see it in Miss Tomson’s room.”
Looking at the bed Suzy questioned, “What about how they lived, and the clothing they wore?”
The curator replied, “You might want to talk to Roy. He’s around here somewhere, and knows all about how people lived back then. You can look through the rooms. Each room has things from that time period. Everything is marked with a card or plaque identifying its name and date. That’s about it for my part. Feel free to wander around and enjoy yourself.”
At the end of the hall a man came walking up and announced, “I’m Roy Isabella said you had some questions.”
Suzy spoke first, “I see all the women’s clothes are dresses that are long heavy and bulky. Did women ever ware pants?”
Roy informed, “Most women usually wore long skirts that felt heavy, looked bulky, and limited their range of motion. Some women, embracing the concept of “rational dress,” wanted the option to wear pants in public. Some wanted it for purely practical reasons, such as for comfort and ease of movement. For others, the freedom to wear pants was tied to the women’s rights movement, a radical and controversial crusade at the time.
Most women that wore pants worked in mining camps, logging camps, horse or cattle ranches, and as a Pony Express rider carrying the U.S. mail. They would be seen riding horses, and had a habit of dressing like a man. They had the reputation for being able to handle a horse better than most men and shoot like a cowboy. Most of these women carried a rifle or wore a hand gun.
Jim questioned, “What kind of gun was used at the time?”
Roy responded, “The revolver of the day was the Colt Peacemaker. It was popular with ranchers, lawmen, and outlaws alike. As for the rifle of the time the Model 1873 Winchester was one of the most successful rifles of its day.”
Then Roy questioned, “Anything else?”
Suze questioned, “How hard was it to get thigs like a wagon and horses.”
For a person to get a wagon in this part of the country, you would need to hire a carpenter, a blacksmith, and a wheelwright. Then it would take about two to two and half months to get it built, at a cost of around $250.
People around here most likely traveled in a single farm style four-wheeled wagon capable of carrying at least 2,500 pounds. This wagon would have been covered with water-proofed canvas (likely not pristine white as in the movies) and pulled by two horses. The farm wagons were light and had good clearance, practical considerations when fording rivers and traversing mountain passes.”
Suzy asked, “Is there a place I can get a list of what things cost in the 1870’s.”
Roy replied, “I have a list like that done by decade. I’ll make a copy of the list for the 1870’s and leave it with Isabella. You can pick it up on your way out.”
Suzy commented, “Thanks Roy.”
Roy smiled and walked down the hall.
Suzy looked out the back window and commented, “Look Jim. There’s a little building out back.”
Jim responded, “It’s the bath house. I’ve been out there before. It’s like a wash room with a tub. You can wash your clothes and take a bath out there.”
Suzy responded, “Oh, bet it was cold in the winter.”
Jim replied, “No. it has a little wood cook stove on the back wall.”
Then they noticed one room on the back of the house had been split into two bathrooms. They both had a claw-foot tub, sink, and toilet with the tank mounted up high on the wall.
Jim commented, “They must have added this in the early 1900’s”
Then they finished their tour, and picked up the list from Isabella on their way out.
At the car Suzy confessed, “Boy do I have my work set out for me.”
Jim questioned. “What do you mean?”
Suzy replied, “We just can’t drive that beast of a truck down Main Street. Then jump out run in the Saloon, and drag our great grandpa out to the truck. What then, we drive out of town like a bat out of hell. You have any idea what that will do to the Time Passages?”
Jim slapped his hand to his head and gasped, “Oh hell, I haven’t even thought about what to do once we get there.”
Suzy assured, “Don’t worry about it Jim that’s not your job. I’ll take care of getting us clothes, money, guns, and whatever else we need. You just do the truck. That’s all you have to worry about is the truck. I’ll do the rest whatever it takes. You need parts, tell me, you need a tool, tell me, you need food, or anything else just tell me. That’s my job. You got that?”
Jim laughed, “I understand, I’m the slave doing all the work, and you runaround spending money. Sounds like you get the dream job, and I get to put the bolt in the hole and turn the wrench. I need something right away.
Suzy whined, “What now Jim.”
Jim replied, “Food! It’s past lunch time.”
There next stop was the Museum.
The curator was setting at a little table just inside the door. Standing up she announced, “Welcome to Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse. The admission is $5 each.”
Jim handed her a twenty, and she gave Jim his change. Then she instructed, “You need to sign the guest book."
Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse museum
After that the tour began. The curator announced, “I’m Isabella and I’ll be your guide on this journey back through time. Miss Tomson’s father purchased this property about 1860. His daughter being 19 and not married made her father fear for her wellbeing. To solve this he commissioned the building of the Boardinghouse for his daughter. He had hoped it would get her a husband, but she never married. The first boarders could rent a room for about $5 per month with meals. She ran the Boardinghouse from its completion in 1864 until her death in 1902.
$30 was a lot of money back then! The average person made about a dollar a day, and that might have been a ten or twelve hour day. At that time, milk would have been about 8¢ a quart, which was also fairly expensive because dairy operations had not been modernized to optimize production. You could rent a room for about $5 per month, coffee was 12¢ a pound, sugar was 7 to 10¢ a pound, and flour was $3 per barrel or 4¢ a pound.
This first room is the Parlour what we would call the living room today. It was rarely used back in its day. This room was for birthday parties, Sunday guests, and Special Occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas. This is where they would put the Christmas tree.
Now we continue down the hall to the Great Room. This is where they would spend most of their time in the cold months. As you can see the kitchen and dining room was all one big room. The heat from the wood cook stove kept the room warm all winter long. We’ve restored the kitchen to the 1800’s, but the dining room wallpaper is from the 1920’s.
Suzy asked, “What’s this picture here on the wall.
The curator replied, “It’s a picture of the bed from Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse. They knew it had been there since the 1870’s, but there have been some dating problems. It has some signs of modern machinery being used on it. Some say it could have been from a repair, and others say it’s a fake,
About the bed itself it’s an Empire style and takes its name from the rule of the Emperor Napoleon I in the First French Empire. It flourished between 1800 and 1815 during the Consulate and the First French Empire periods, although its life span lasted until the late-1820s. It’s from France and it spread into much of Europe and the United States. How one got into Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse no one knows, but there is pictures of it there in the 1920’s. If we just step down the hall you can see it in Miss Tomson’s room.”
Looking at the bed Suzy questioned, “What about how they lived, and the clothing they wore?”
The curator replied, “You might want to talk to Roy. He’s around here somewhere, and knows all about how people lived back then. You can look through the rooms. Each room has things from that time period. Everything is marked with a card or plaque identifying its name and date. That’s about it for my part. Feel free to wander around and enjoy yourself.”
At the end of the hall a man came walking up and announced, “I’m Roy Isabella said you had some questions.”
Suzy spoke first, “I see all the women’s clothes are dresses that are long heavy and bulky. Did women ever ware pants?”
Roy informed, “Most women usually wore long skirts that felt heavy, looked bulky, and limited their range of motion. Some women, embracing the concept of “rational dress,” wanted the option to wear pants in public. Some wanted it for purely practical reasons, such as for comfort and ease of movement. For others, the freedom to wear pants was tied to the women’s rights movement, a radical and controversial crusade at the time.
Most women that wore pants worked in mining camps, logging camps, horse or cattle ranches, and as a Pony Express rider carrying the U.S. mail. They would be seen riding horses, and had a habit of dressing like a man. They had the reputation for being able to handle a horse better than most men and shoot like a cowboy. Most of these women carried a rifle or wore a hand gun.
Jim questioned, “What kind of gun was used at the time?”
Roy responded, “The revolver of the day was the Colt Peacemaker. It was popular with ranchers, lawmen, and outlaws alike. As for the rifle of the time the Model 1873 Winchester was one of the most successful rifles of its day.”
Then Roy questioned, “Anything else?”
Suze questioned, “How hard was it to get thigs like a wagon and horses.”
For a person to get a wagon in this part of the country, you would need to hire a carpenter, a blacksmith, and a wheelwright. Then it would take about two to two and half months to get it built, at a cost of around $250.
People around here most likely traveled in a single farm style four-wheeled wagon capable of carrying at least 2,500 pounds. This wagon would have been covered with water-proofed canvas (likely not pristine white as in the movies) and pulled by two horses. The farm wagons were light and had good clearance, practical considerations when fording rivers and traversing mountain passes.”
Suzy asked, “Is there a place I can get a list of what things cost in the 1870’s.”
Roy replied, “I have a list like that done by decade. I’ll make a copy of the list for the 1870’s and leave it with Isabella. You can pick it up on your way out.”
Suzy commented, “Thanks Roy.”
Roy smiled and walked down the hall.
Suzy looked out the back window and commented, “Look Jim. There’s a little building out back.”
Jim responded, “It’s the bath house. I’ve been out there before. It’s like a wash room with a tub. You can wash your clothes and take a bath out there.”
Suzy responded, “Oh, bet it was cold in the winter.”
Jim replied, “No. it has a little wood cook stove on the back wall.”
Then they noticed one room on the back of the house had been split into two bathrooms. They both had a claw-foot tub, sink, and toilet with the tank mounted up high on the wall.
Jim commented, “They must have added this in the early 1900’s”
Then they finished their tour, and picked up the list from Isabella on their way out.
At the car Suzy confessed, “Boy do I have my work set out for me.”
Jim questioned. “What do you mean?”
Suzy replied, “We just can’t drive that beast of a truck down Main Street. Then jump out run in the Saloon, and drag our great grandpa out to the truck. What then, we drive out of town like a bat out of hell. You have any idea what that will do to the Time Passages?”
Jim slapped his hand to his head and gasped, “Oh hell, I haven’t even thought about what to do once we get there.”
Suzy assured, “Don’t worry about it Jim that’s not your job. I’ll take care of getting us clothes, money, guns, and whatever else we need. You just do the truck. That’s all you have to worry about is the truck. I’ll do the rest whatever it takes. You need parts, tell me, you need a tool, tell me, you need food, or anything else just tell me. That’s my job. You got that?”
Jim laughed, “I understand, I’m the slave doing all the work, and you runaround spending money. Sounds like you get the dream job, and I get to put the bolt in the hole and turn the wrench. I need something right away.
Suzy whined, “What now Jim.”
Jim replied, “Food! It’s past lunch time.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Seven - Turners Coin Shop
The next morning Jim awoke to the smell of bacon cooking. Putting on his pants he staggered into the kitchen.
Suzy announced, “Good morning sleepy head.”
Jim replied, “I was out like a light the moment my head hit the pillow. I haven’t slept like that… Oh well, not for a long time.”
Flipping a pancake Suzy question, “Two or three pancakes?”
Jim mumbled, “Three.”
Tossing some bacon on Jim’s plate Suzy set a stack of pancakes on the table. Then she sat across from Jim. Stabbing a pancake with her fork she announced, “I had another dream last night. I dreamed I was in that bathhouse behind the Boardinghouse. There were three other women in there with me, and we were washing our clothes. The wood stove was going, and there was a big pot of water on it.
We were taking turns taking a bath and going to the well for water. Every time I went to get water I could see you digging a ditch for something. The women thought I was your wife and I just let them think that.”
Jim stuffed a bite of pancake in his mouth and stared at Suzy. Then he revealed, “The bruise on your head looks better today.”
Suzy replied, “I know I put some makeup on it.”
Jim questioned, “What are we doing today.”
Suzy informed, “You’re going to spend the day at my desk making a list of everything you need. Look it up on the internet and print it out. I’m going to go shopping for things I know we’ll need.”
Jim questioned, “What if this doesn’t work then what? You’re spending a lot of money, and it’s all on me. If it doesn’t work what do you get out of this?”
Suzy looked wide eyed at Jim as she stood. Grabbing the back of the chair, she slid it over next to Jim’s chair. Then she sat next to him putting one arm over his shoulder and the other arm around his waist.
Leaning her head on his shoulder she whispered, “Jim, I would have paid off the farm no matter what. With what you must have went through finding your mother on the kitchen floor. I can’t even imagine what it would be like to see her like that.
Then what you went through with Autum. I’m just at a loss to comprehend a thing like that. You’re all the family I have Jim, and I’d do anything for family. I wasn’t there to comfort you then, but I’m here now.
Besides I’m doing it for me to. As to your question what if it doesn’t work. Then promise me we’ll take a trip in the truck. We’ll go across the top part of the country, down the east coast, through the southern states, and up the west coast. In Montana we can sleep in the back of the truck and watch the stars. Then we can sleep on Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, and eat southern food in New Orleans. Then that would be the dream Jim. Just promise me that.”
With a shaky voice Jim replied, “Sure, we can do that.”
Suzy wiped a tear from Jim’s cheek, and moved her chair back. Sitting down she spoke softly, “My grandpa was a workaholic and saved every penny he ever made. The only thing I ever seen him get just for himself was the truck.
I know you want to know how rich I am, so I’ll tell you this. The crop dusting company, the wheat farm, and a propane company, sold for 30 million. My grandpa had bought US savings bonds religiously for fifty years. I was cashing in $25 saving bonds for over $100. Yep they keep growing after they mature. I decided I would spend a million on the truck if I had to. Then I was going to enjoy life a little and who better to do it with than family.”
Jim took his plate to the sink, and announced, “You probably shouldn’t have told me about your money. Now I will worry about everything you buy. I’ll be thinking things like what if she thinks I’m taking advantage of her.”
Suzy barked, “Put the lid back on that beehive and don’t take it off again. If that happens I’ll know. Remember when I told you I wanted love like that. Well I’ve had a few men in my life some were like that, and some that just wanted to parade me around like some trophy. If you do that I’ll know, and be on you like flies on a cow-pie. Don’t worry about it Jim.”
Leaving the kitchen Jim mumbled, “I’m going to work.”
Suzy did the dishes and wiped things up. Then she went to her bedroom to get her messenger bag. Putting her hand on Jim’s back she requested, “Can you hand me that stack of papers I printed out last night.”
Picking up the pile Jim questioned, “The ones with pictures of old time clothes.”
Putting the stack in her messenger bag Suzy mentioned, “I’ll be back as soon as possible.”
Then she was off. Her first stop was Western Gun Works. Inside she met with Paul and questioned, “Are you a gunsmith Paul?”
Paul replied, “Sure am, what do you need.”
Suzy informed, “I need to have a couple guns made. There called Colt Peacemaker if you know what that is. There from the late 1800’s.”
Paul smiled and revealed, “They still make them. It was sold as a .44-40 Winchester Center Fire. The gun is still in production today, and I can get it in about any Caliber. If it was me I’d go for a 357 Magnum with a 7-1⁄2 inch barrel. I could get one for about $200.”
Suzy replied, “I’ll take two in 44-40. This one might be tuff to get; I need a Winchester Model 1873.”
Paul laughed, “The Model 1873 Winchester with a 24-inch barrel rifle was one of the most successful rifles of its day. I can get a replica at a cost of about $2,500. If you want the real thing its $20,000 to $30,000 depending on what shape it’s in. I’ thought you had something hard to do.”
Suzy replied, “So did I Paul. I’ll take two of the $2,500 replica if that’s ok.
Paul assured, “Sure, just let me wright up a ticket. I’ll do a background check, and you can give me some money.”
Walking out the door Suzy thought, Wow that was a lot easier than I thought.
Her next stop was Turners Coin Shop pulling up the sign said, “Turners Coin Shop, Coins, Precious Metals, and Jewelry”
Inside she went to the counter and saw a man with a name tag that said Oliver. He was looking through a box and looked up at Suzy and informed, “I’ll be right with you.”
Soon the chubby gray-haired man came to the counter.
Suzy explained, “This might sound weird.”
Oliver butted in, “Lady you have no idea what weird is. I’ve heard stories no one would believe, but they come in here and tell me anyway.” Oliver took a deep breath and said, “So go ahead.”
Suzy continued, “I need the face value of $250 in coins that date pre 1870.”
Oliver started laughing and questioned, “Dose this look like Tiffany’s to you?”
Suzy got a serious look on her face and insisted, “Isn’t this a coin shop?”
Oliver calmed down and informed, “You don’t know what you’re asking. Here look at that 1885 silver dollar there in the case. It’s in fair condition and its $350. Say I get a hundred of those it would be 35 thousand dollars. That’s if I could even get them, and that’s not even half of what you want or as old.
Then there is the fact this is just a little coin shop, and I don’t have the means to acquire that much.”
Suzy requested, “Maybe I can give you some money to get the coins a little at a time. Then pay you a finder’s fee.”
Leaning over the counter Oliver whispered, “Are you a time traveler?”
Suzy laughed, “You’ll never know. How about I pay you a ten percent finder’s fee?”
Oliver hypothesized, “I could look around for what they call junk silver. I can get 1860 Liberty Quarters for about $30 each and dimes for $15 or $16. That would be about $120 for $1 face value verses $350 for a silver dollar. That would still be about 30 to 40 thousand instead of 70 to a 100 thousand.
I’ll tell you what, Nickels never were silver. I can get Nickels, or what they call Shield Nickels for $2 to $3 each. I might be able to get a deal for $125 or $130 for $5 face value. If we mix a chunk of those in it would cut down the cost. How about we meet every Friday and you give me a 15 percent finder’s fee?”
Suzy chuckled, “Oliver you’re a tricky old man, ok 15 percent it is.”
Suzy put out her hand and they shook on it, then she slipped her messenger bag from her shoulder and made out a check for 10 thousand.
Suzy’s next stop was “One Stitch at a Time.”
In the dress shop Suzy talked to the dress maker Wanda. Pulling out the picture of the dress she wanted she informed, “I would like this dress with a petticoat.”
Wanda looked at the dress and said, “I’m almost sure I can get a pattern for that. It’s going to take about six weeks to make it. That’s if we don’t get too busy.”
Suzy pulled out another picture and questioned, “How about this outfit with cotton shirts, wool trousers, vest with pockets, and canvas jacket?”
Wanda informed, “That might take a bit longer. I know I can get the pattern for the cowboy jacket, but I might have to wing it for the other stuff. I can tell you the zipper had not been invented yet, so do you want me to use any zippers?”
Suzy continued, “I need them all to be as real to the time as possible. I’ll need two jackets, one for me, and one for Jim. Then I’ll need two shirts for me, and two for Jim. It will be the same for the trousers two for me and two for him. Then I need just one vest for Jim.
Wanda replied, “I can take your measurements today, but you’ll have to have Jim come in so I can get his. Let’s get your measurements, so we can do some paperwork, and get a deposit.”
At the car Suzy called Jim, “Hay Jim how dose Chinese food sound. Good, I’ll pick it up on my way.
At the house Jim pulled the door open the moment Suzy hit the porch. Then he followed her into the kitchen. They were eating dinner when Jim asked, “What are we doing tomorrow?”
Suzy gulped, “It’s Sunday, and we’re going to Church. I never work on Sunday. That’s Gods day, and we give it to him.”
The next morning Suzy came from her room waring a purple dress. It had fancy lace around the neck, sleeves, and hem. Her long wavy red hair hung down over her shoulders. Jim took one look and commented, “You look simply gorgeous. That dress looks stunning on you.”
Suzy replied, “Why thank you Jim. Are you about ready to go to the Church?”
The Church was quite old with a high steeple, and paint that was weathered and peeling. The windows were leaded glass in a star pattern. The double doors were propped open wide to invite all that came.
Inside big beams reached up to the peak of the ceiling. Suzy took Jim’s hand and led him to a seat near the back. Thin this skinny old gray haired shabby looking man in old worn and tattered clothes sat next to him. Looking down he could see his shoes were worn with holes. He couldn’t stop looking at the holes in his shoes. He could see his socks in some places and skin in other holes. Jim knew his socks must have holes in them for him to see that.
Then a man asked everyone to stand and open their hymnal to some page. Suzy pulled Jim’s arm and held the book in front of them. The old man left his book in the pocket and stood. Behind the pulpit was a band with drums, guitars, horns, and a keyboard. As the music started the old man was certainly loud. He sounded proud as he sang. His hands were raised high, and his voice lifted the rafters. There was no doubt the Lord could surely hear the old man's voice from the sky.
Even with the old man’s voice so loud. Jim could hear Suzy singing like an angel. Her voice was soft and sweet. It flowed through the air like the sweet smell of a pie cooking. Jim was having sensory overload.
The sermon was on Matthew 7:1. The Preacher told how one should have a positive outlook for oneself, and how one should also have a positive opinion of others. Telling a story, “One day Dave and his friend were strolling along a riverbank. They stopped by the river for a moment to gaze at the water.
Seeing fishes, Dave exclaimed, “Look at those fishes. Oh, how they are enjoying themselves!”
“How can you say that?” asked his friend. “How would you know if they are having a good time? You are not a fish.”
Dave replied, “You aren’t me either. So how would you know that I don’t know the fish are having fun?”
Jim thought he understood the story, but wasn’t sure. As they stood Jim put out his hand and spoke to the old man, “Hi I’m Jim.”
The old man took Jim’s hand his grip was firm and confident as he replied, “I’m Carmen. I haven’t seen you here before, but I’ve seen the little lady since she was a little girl.”
Suzy took Jim’s arm and Carmen stepped back so they could pass. Outside Jim questioned, “You think we could take the old man to lunch?”
Suzy questioned, “Did that sermon get to you Jim?”
Jim mumbled, “I think so. He makes me feel for him.”
Suzy replied, “Then what are you waiting for? Better catch him before he leaves.”
Without hesitation Jim took off. Soon he returned with Carmen and they went to lunch.
At lunch Jim admitted, “I’m not sure I understood the meaning of the fish story.”
Carmen replied, “I think it means no one knows if it’s a blessing or a curse. No one is wise enough to know; only God knows.”
Jim laughed, “Ok Carmen, don’t answer anymore of my stupid questions. What did you do for a living?”
Carmen looked at Jim and replied, “Do you want to know? Or is that another stupid question?”
Suzy sprayed pop out of her mouth trying not to laugh as Jim informed, “No, I was serious.”
Carmen disclosed, “Well I always liked working on cars, so after WWII I joined the Army in 48. I was 18 at the time and got lucky. I worked in the motor pool fixing all the old broke down stuff after the war.
When I was 22 and got out of the Army. I started fixing cars. One day I was in my driveway working on a car for this gal Linda. She followed me around the entire time I was working on the car. She would say things like, “That looks good, boy you’re doing a good job, that’s wonderful.”
After I pulled her radiator, fixed it and put it back I said, “That will be 10 bucks.”
She said, “How about a date instead.”
Six months later we were married and her dad rented me a shop to work out of. I ran an automotive shop for 40 years. Then they started putting computers on everything. Hell I couldn’t work on that stuff, and I was too old to go to college for it. I had no choice I had to shut down.”
Jim felt sad and didn’t know what to say, so Jim explained, “I’m restoring an old Diamond T 6x6.”
The old man’s eyes lit up as he boasted, “I know that 2 1/2-ton truck well. It had a 131 horsepower Hercules Engine with a 2 range 5 speed Transmission, and 60 gallon gas tank. That truck was a monster and would climb about anything.”
Carmen paused for a moment then he apologized, “I’m sorry I shouldn't have behaved like that. I just got carried away.”
Jim smiled and revealed, “Me too.”
They took Carmen home after lunch, and headed back to the house.
Back at Suzy’s house Jim questioned, “I have some concerns about the truck motor. It needs to be rebuilt, but that’s not something I can do. It would take a machine shop with about a million dollars of machinery, and the knowledge to use them. Even if you got us a machine shop, it would take years for me to learn to use the machinery.”
Suzy squinted her eyes and replied, “Let’s call someone that knows about this.”
Suzy pulled out her phone and made a call, “Malinda this is Suzy”
Malinda bubbled, “Hi Suzy what do you need.”
The next morning Jim awoke to the smell of bacon cooking. Putting on his pants he staggered into the kitchen.
Suzy announced, “Good morning sleepy head.”
Jim replied, “I was out like a light the moment my head hit the pillow. I haven’t slept like that… Oh well, not for a long time.”
Flipping a pancake Suzy question, “Two or three pancakes?”
Jim mumbled, “Three.”
Tossing some bacon on Jim’s plate Suzy set a stack of pancakes on the table. Then she sat across from Jim. Stabbing a pancake with her fork she announced, “I had another dream last night. I dreamed I was in that bathhouse behind the Boardinghouse. There were three other women in there with me, and we were washing our clothes. The wood stove was going, and there was a big pot of water on it.
We were taking turns taking a bath and going to the well for water. Every time I went to get water I could see you digging a ditch for something. The women thought I was your wife and I just let them think that.”
Jim stuffed a bite of pancake in his mouth and stared at Suzy. Then he revealed, “The bruise on your head looks better today.”
Suzy replied, “I know I put some makeup on it.”
Jim questioned, “What are we doing today.”
Suzy informed, “You’re going to spend the day at my desk making a list of everything you need. Look it up on the internet and print it out. I’m going to go shopping for things I know we’ll need.”
Jim questioned, “What if this doesn’t work then what? You’re spending a lot of money, and it’s all on me. If it doesn’t work what do you get out of this?”
Suzy looked wide eyed at Jim as she stood. Grabbing the back of the chair, she slid it over next to Jim’s chair. Then she sat next to him putting one arm over his shoulder and the other arm around his waist.
Leaning her head on his shoulder she whispered, “Jim, I would have paid off the farm no matter what. With what you must have went through finding your mother on the kitchen floor. I can’t even imagine what it would be like to see her like that.
Then what you went through with Autum. I’m just at a loss to comprehend a thing like that. You’re all the family I have Jim, and I’d do anything for family. I wasn’t there to comfort you then, but I’m here now.
Besides I’m doing it for me to. As to your question what if it doesn’t work. Then promise me we’ll take a trip in the truck. We’ll go across the top part of the country, down the east coast, through the southern states, and up the west coast. In Montana we can sleep in the back of the truck and watch the stars. Then we can sleep on Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, and eat southern food in New Orleans. Then that would be the dream Jim. Just promise me that.”
With a shaky voice Jim replied, “Sure, we can do that.”
Suzy wiped a tear from Jim’s cheek, and moved her chair back. Sitting down she spoke softly, “My grandpa was a workaholic and saved every penny he ever made. The only thing I ever seen him get just for himself was the truck.
I know you want to know how rich I am, so I’ll tell you this. The crop dusting company, the wheat farm, and a propane company, sold for 30 million. My grandpa had bought US savings bonds religiously for fifty years. I was cashing in $25 saving bonds for over $100. Yep they keep growing after they mature. I decided I would spend a million on the truck if I had to. Then I was going to enjoy life a little and who better to do it with than family.”
Jim took his plate to the sink, and announced, “You probably shouldn’t have told me about your money. Now I will worry about everything you buy. I’ll be thinking things like what if she thinks I’m taking advantage of her.”
Suzy barked, “Put the lid back on that beehive and don’t take it off again. If that happens I’ll know. Remember when I told you I wanted love like that. Well I’ve had a few men in my life some were like that, and some that just wanted to parade me around like some trophy. If you do that I’ll know, and be on you like flies on a cow-pie. Don’t worry about it Jim.”
Leaving the kitchen Jim mumbled, “I’m going to work.”
Suzy did the dishes and wiped things up. Then she went to her bedroom to get her messenger bag. Putting her hand on Jim’s back she requested, “Can you hand me that stack of papers I printed out last night.”
Picking up the pile Jim questioned, “The ones with pictures of old time clothes.”
Putting the stack in her messenger bag Suzy mentioned, “I’ll be back as soon as possible.”
Then she was off. Her first stop was Western Gun Works. Inside she met with Paul and questioned, “Are you a gunsmith Paul?”
Paul replied, “Sure am, what do you need.”
Suzy informed, “I need to have a couple guns made. There called Colt Peacemaker if you know what that is. There from the late 1800’s.”
Paul smiled and revealed, “They still make them. It was sold as a .44-40 Winchester Center Fire. The gun is still in production today, and I can get it in about any Caliber. If it was me I’d go for a 357 Magnum with a 7-1⁄2 inch barrel. I could get one for about $200.”
Suzy replied, “I’ll take two in 44-40. This one might be tuff to get; I need a Winchester Model 1873.”
Paul laughed, “The Model 1873 Winchester with a 24-inch barrel rifle was one of the most successful rifles of its day. I can get a replica at a cost of about $2,500. If you want the real thing its $20,000 to $30,000 depending on what shape it’s in. I’ thought you had something hard to do.”
Suzy replied, “So did I Paul. I’ll take two of the $2,500 replica if that’s ok.
Paul assured, “Sure, just let me wright up a ticket. I’ll do a background check, and you can give me some money.”
Walking out the door Suzy thought, Wow that was a lot easier than I thought.
Her next stop was Turners Coin Shop pulling up the sign said, “Turners Coin Shop, Coins, Precious Metals, and Jewelry”
Inside she went to the counter and saw a man with a name tag that said Oliver. He was looking through a box and looked up at Suzy and informed, “I’ll be right with you.”
Soon the chubby gray-haired man came to the counter.
Suzy explained, “This might sound weird.”
Oliver butted in, “Lady you have no idea what weird is. I’ve heard stories no one would believe, but they come in here and tell me anyway.” Oliver took a deep breath and said, “So go ahead.”
Suzy continued, “I need the face value of $250 in coins that date pre 1870.”
Oliver started laughing and questioned, “Dose this look like Tiffany’s to you?”
Suzy got a serious look on her face and insisted, “Isn’t this a coin shop?”
Oliver calmed down and informed, “You don’t know what you’re asking. Here look at that 1885 silver dollar there in the case. It’s in fair condition and its $350. Say I get a hundred of those it would be 35 thousand dollars. That’s if I could even get them, and that’s not even half of what you want or as old.
Then there is the fact this is just a little coin shop, and I don’t have the means to acquire that much.”
Suzy requested, “Maybe I can give you some money to get the coins a little at a time. Then pay you a finder’s fee.”
Leaning over the counter Oliver whispered, “Are you a time traveler?”
Suzy laughed, “You’ll never know. How about I pay you a ten percent finder’s fee?”
Oliver hypothesized, “I could look around for what they call junk silver. I can get 1860 Liberty Quarters for about $30 each and dimes for $15 or $16. That would be about $120 for $1 face value verses $350 for a silver dollar. That would still be about 30 to 40 thousand instead of 70 to a 100 thousand.
I’ll tell you what, Nickels never were silver. I can get Nickels, or what they call Shield Nickels for $2 to $3 each. I might be able to get a deal for $125 or $130 for $5 face value. If we mix a chunk of those in it would cut down the cost. How about we meet every Friday and you give me a 15 percent finder’s fee?”
Suzy chuckled, “Oliver you’re a tricky old man, ok 15 percent it is.”
Suzy put out her hand and they shook on it, then she slipped her messenger bag from her shoulder and made out a check for 10 thousand.
Suzy’s next stop was “One Stitch at a Time.”In the dress shop Suzy talked to the dress maker Wanda. Pulling out the picture of the dress she wanted she informed, “I would like this dress with a petticoat.”
Wanda looked at the dress and said, “I’m almost sure I can get a pattern for that. It’s going to take about six weeks to make it. That’s if we don’t get too busy.”
Suzy pulled out another picture and questioned, “How about this outfit with cotton shirts, wool trousers, vest with pockets, and canvas jacket?”
Wanda informed, “That might take a bit longer. I know I can get the pattern for the cowboy jacket, but I might have to wing it for the other stuff. I can tell you the zipper had not been invented yet, so do you want me to use any zippers?”
Suzy continued, “I need them all to be as real to the time as possible. I’ll need two jackets, one for me, and one for Jim. Then I’ll need two shirts for me, and two for Jim. It will be the same for the trousers two for me and two for him. Then I need just one vest for Jim.
Wanda replied, “I can take your measurements today, but you’ll have to have Jim come in so I can get his. Let’s get your measurements, so we can do some paperwork, and get a deposit.”
At the car Suzy called Jim, “Hay Jim how dose Chinese food sound. Good, I’ll pick it up on my way.
At the house Jim pulled the door open the moment Suzy hit the porch. Then he followed her into the kitchen. They were eating dinner when Jim asked, “What are we doing tomorrow?”
Suzy gulped, “It’s Sunday, and we’re going to Church. I never work on Sunday. That’s Gods day, and we give it to him.”
The next morning Suzy came from her room waring a purple dress. It had fancy lace around the neck, sleeves, and hem. Her long wavy red hair hung down over her shoulders. Jim took one look and commented, “You look simply gorgeous. That dress looks stunning on you.”
Suzy replied, “Why thank you Jim. Are you about ready to go to the Church?”
The Church was quite old with a high steeple, and paint that was weathered and peeling. The windows were leaded glass in a star pattern. The double doors were propped open wide to invite all that came.
Inside big beams reached up to the peak of the ceiling. Suzy took Jim’s hand and led him to a seat near the back. Thin this skinny old gray haired shabby looking man in old worn and tattered clothes sat next to him. Looking down he could see his shoes were worn with holes. He couldn’t stop looking at the holes in his shoes. He could see his socks in some places and skin in other holes. Jim knew his socks must have holes in them for him to see that.
Then a man asked everyone to stand and open their hymnal to some page. Suzy pulled Jim’s arm and held the book in front of them. The old man left his book in the pocket and stood. Behind the pulpit was a band with drums, guitars, horns, and a keyboard. As the music started the old man was certainly loud. He sounded proud as he sang. His hands were raised high, and his voice lifted the rafters. There was no doubt the Lord could surely hear the old man's voice from the sky.
Even with the old man’s voice so loud. Jim could hear Suzy singing like an angel. Her voice was soft and sweet. It flowed through the air like the sweet smell of a pie cooking. Jim was having sensory overload.
The sermon was on Matthew 7:1. The Preacher told how one should have a positive outlook for oneself, and how one should also have a positive opinion of others. Telling a story, “One day Dave and his friend were strolling along a riverbank. They stopped by the river for a moment to gaze at the water.
Seeing fishes, Dave exclaimed, “Look at those fishes. Oh, how they are enjoying themselves!”
“How can you say that?” asked his friend. “How would you know if they are having a good time? You are not a fish.”
Dave replied, “You aren’t me either. So how would you know that I don’t know the fish are having fun?”
Jim thought he understood the story, but wasn’t sure. As they stood Jim put out his hand and spoke to the old man, “Hi I’m Jim.”
The old man took Jim’s hand his grip was firm and confident as he replied, “I’m Carmen. I haven’t seen you here before, but I’ve seen the little lady since she was a little girl.”
Suzy took Jim’s arm and Carmen stepped back so they could pass. Outside Jim questioned, “You think we could take the old man to lunch?”
Suzy questioned, “Did that sermon get to you Jim?”
Jim mumbled, “I think so. He makes me feel for him.”
Suzy replied, “Then what are you waiting for? Better catch him before he leaves.”
Without hesitation Jim took off. Soon he returned with Carmen and they went to lunch.
At lunch Jim admitted, “I’m not sure I understood the meaning of the fish story.”
Carmen replied, “I think it means no one knows if it’s a blessing or a curse. No one is wise enough to know; only God knows.”
Jim laughed, “Ok Carmen, don’t answer anymore of my stupid questions. What did you do for a living?”
Carmen looked at Jim and replied, “Do you want to know? Or is that another stupid question?”
Suzy sprayed pop out of her mouth trying not to laugh as Jim informed, “No, I was serious.”
Carmen disclosed, “Well I always liked working on cars, so after WWII I joined the Army in 48. I was 18 at the time and got lucky. I worked in the motor pool fixing all the old broke down stuff after the war.
When I was 22 and got out of the Army. I started fixing cars. One day I was in my driveway working on a car for this gal Linda. She followed me around the entire time I was working on the car. She would say things like, “That looks good, boy you’re doing a good job, that’s wonderful.”
After I pulled her radiator, fixed it and put it back I said, “That will be 10 bucks.”
She said, “How about a date instead.”
Six months later we were married and her dad rented me a shop to work out of. I ran an automotive shop for 40 years. Then they started putting computers on everything. Hell I couldn’t work on that stuff, and I was too old to go to college for it. I had no choice I had to shut down.”
Jim felt sad and didn’t know what to say, so Jim explained, “I’m restoring an old Diamond T 6x6.”
The old man’s eyes lit up as he boasted, “I know that 2 1/2-ton truck well. It had a 131 horsepower Hercules Engine with a 2 range 5 speed Transmission, and 60 gallon gas tank. That truck was a monster and would climb about anything.”
Carmen paused for a moment then he apologized, “I’m sorry I shouldn't have behaved like that. I just got carried away.”
Jim smiled and revealed, “Me too.”
They took Carmen home after lunch, and headed back to the house.
Back at Suzy’s house Jim questioned, “I have some concerns about the truck motor. It needs to be rebuilt, but that’s not something I can do. It would take a machine shop with about a million dollars of machinery, and the knowledge to use them. Even if you got us a machine shop, it would take years for me to learn to use the machinery.”
Suzy squinted her eyes and replied, “Let’s call someone that knows about this.”
Suzy pulled out her phone and made a call, “Malinda this is Suzy”
Malinda bubbled, “Hi Suzy what do you need.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Suzy replied, “Let me put you on speaker so Jim can here. Now what we need is does Jim half to do the machine work on the motor, or can we have a machine shop do it.”
Malinda hypothesized, “Remember I said it was just a story, but I would think Jim would just have to put it together. I don’t think the guy that built the helicopter machined any parts. He built it from the ground up. Did that help?
Jim replied, “I got it I just have to build it not make it, right?”
Malinda answered, “That’s my thinking Jim, so how have you two been doing. Have you been staying out of that house?”
Suzy replied,” Sure have, and we’re having a pump made. We should be able to pick it up tomorrow. Jim ordered a pallet of rock salt, and it should be here Wednesday.”
Malinda assured, “I’m sure you’re going to do just fine. Just do what I said. Most people don’t listen to me and think I’m a quack. Then they can’t understand why things keep happening to them. I’m just glad you listened and are doing well. Is there anything else I can help you with?”
Suzy spoke up, “No that does it for now.”
Malinda ended, “Tell next time.”
The phone went dead and Suzy exclaimed, “There’s your answer Jim. If you have anything like that again just let me know. I’m sure we can work it out. I have some of my own problems like that. There not as important as your truck question, but don’t worry about it I’ll work it out.”
Jim looked puzzled and questioned, “Like what?”
Suzy smiled, “Like toilet paper, it wasn’t available yet. It wasn’t around for another ten years, unless you lived in New York. Then there’s that time of the month kind of thing. I’ve been thinking about a chamber pot too. You’re a guy and don’t think about things like that. You just find a tree.”
Jim got quiet and responded, “Oh.”
The next morning Jim complained, “I need to shave. The whiskers on my face itch like hell.”
Suzy yelled from her room, “There’s a razor under the sink.”
Coming into the kitchen he saw Suzy making pancakes again. Jim commented, “You’re spoiling the hell out of me.”
Suzy replied, “You’re building a truck for me, so how did the shaving go?”
Jim said, “That was like trying to use a spaghetti noodle on a Weed-Eater to cut grass. I need to get some bathroom stuff.”
Suzy agreed, “We can do that today. Then I need to go to Dention Vital Records office, so I can see if I can find Grandpas death certificate. I need to take you to the farm to get your truck, so we can pick up the pump.”
Jim added, “We can get all the hoses out of your trunk at the farm.”
At the farm they saw the slab had been poured. In and excited voice Suzy blurted, “Oh Jim your shop is going to be nice.”
Suzy pulled back by the barn and parked. Jim opened the trunk and grabbed two hoses, as Suzy opened the barn door and peeked inside. Seeing a shadowy figure in the truck she spoke loudly, “Hi Autum.”
Jim dropped the hoses in front of the Diamond T, and went for another load. After putting all the hoses in the barn He went to his truck. Pumping the gas a few times he turned the key. With a rumble and a growl it came to life. Picking up his phone he called Steve, but the call went to voice mail. Jim laughed as he thought; He’s got the headphones on jamming out. The tractor looked no bigger than a matchbox car out in the field, so Jim left a message that he took the truck.
Suzy pulled out and Jim followed. Suzy parked in front of the Vital Records office, and Jim parked next to her. Getting out Jim announced, “I’m going to walk down the street and get a haircut well you do this. Suzy just waved as she walked in the door.
In the Dention Vital Records office Suzy announced, “Hi I’m looking for information on when Earl Hanson died. I know it was sometime in the 1870’s.”
The clerk informed, “Fill out this card with what you know, and we’ll see what we can find.”
The clerk came back with a large brown book. Took the card and opened the book. After flipping a few pages she looked up and said, “I’m not finding anything.
Suzy questioned, “You sure? You only checked that one page.
The clerk replied, “Sorry sweetie, but there were only about 30 deaths recorded for that entire decade.” Turning back a page she exclaimed, “Oh, I have a Marriage recorded for Earl Hanson and Edna Perkins on June 10, 1861, but there is no death listed for either one of them. You might check the newspaper of the time. The Lambert Times would be the best for around here as Dention never had a paper until the 60’s. If you can’t find it there you might try the State Vital Records office in Boise”
Suzy thanked her and left. Waiting in her car for Jim her phone rang, “Hello.”
Oliver questioned, “Is this Suzy?”
Suzy replied, “Yah go ahead Oliver.”
Oliver informed, “I got a guy in her right now that came in with ten silver dollars. There in the range you’re looking for. Some have the date wore off, but the ones you can read are from 1866 to 1870. I think I can get the lot for $2,000. That would be $200 a coin. You want me to get them? You know my 15% would be $300 on top of that.”
Suzy assured, “Go ahead Oliver. If you think it’s a deal do it.”
Oliver replied, “You got it little lady.”
Seeing Jim walking down the sidewalk Suzy hollered from the car window, “Jim over here.”
At the car Jim questioned, “What’s up?”
Suzy replied, “Get in we have to go to Lambert and look there. We’ll come back for the truck.”
Looking Jim over as he got in Suzy Inquired, “I thought you were getting a haircut?”
Jim replied, “It was over an hour wait, so I gave up on it.”
In Lambert they stopped at the library, and inquired about old newspapers. Jim was almost sure the curse happened in the fall of 1874. They decided to start in September and work from there. The first paper they pulled up was Thursday September 3, 1874. The paper was one page with three columns.
After looking through the paper they moved to the next issue Thursday September 10, 1874, but found nothing. Then when they got to the next issue Suzy exclaimed, “Oh my god Jim do you see this.”
The Lambert Times Thursday September 17, 1874
Rebecca’s Corner in Dention
On Friday Earl Hanson a prominent cattle man and the Saloon girl Margret Spaner went missing. Their disappearance comes at the same time that Suzan and James White left for Texas. It is rumored that they may be traveling with the white’s.
On Sunday the 13 when everyone was in church the Giddy Up Saloon burned to the ground. By a miracle Turners Guns and Hardware store next door only had some scorched spots.
Monday morning old man Peterson’s cow got loose and was found eating flowers in Miss Dudrow’s flower garden. Some school boy’s rounded up the cow, and returned it to its home.
Suzy slid her chair back and stared intensely at Jim as she mumbled, “Could it be?”
Jim read it again and questioned, “You think?”
Suzy questioned, “Do you think Suzan and James White is us?
Jim’s head was spinning as chills ran through his body. Suzy started looking through back issues of the paper for James and Suzan. Then she called out, “Oh crap! No way! That’s over two months.”
The Lambert Times Thursday July 16, 1874
Rebecca’s Corner in Dention
The White family donated and installed a hand pump for the kitchen in Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse. James and Suzan have become a welcome addition to the Boardinghouse. The eccentric Benjamin Belvedere claimed Jim and Suzy are a rare find, and are out of place for these times.
Jim read it again and again. Then he took Suzy’s hand and gave it a squeeze as he questioned, “What now?”
Suzy squeeze Jims hand tight and softly affirmed, “Nothing has changed. You build the truck, and I buy what we need. It’s just that I got a lot more to do.
The ride back to Jim’s truck was quiet as thoughts ran through Suzy’s head. She thought about all the things she would need. She needed a Wood worker and a black smith. She would need to have a wagon built to the standers of the time. She would also need barrels made of the sizes of the time. Then she thought, Oh Crap I need horses. I don’t know anything about horses. What do I need to know about buying a horse? I’ll have to learn that.
Back at the truck Jim told Suzy, “I’ll pick up the pump and then I’m going to the house. I’ll have Steve help me put it in on Wednesday.”
Suzy informed, “I have a stop to make then I’ll bring something home for dinner.”
Jim Replied. “See you then”
Suzy drove to a wood shop outside of Lambert.
It was an old barn, but she had heard Dave was a master and artist. His wood working was made with an eye for detail. This was the kind of work she would need.
Pounding on the door to the barn she heard some machinery stop. Then the door slid open. There stood a tall man out of place for this time. His hair was long and hung over his shoulders. He had a well-trimmed beard and mustache. Looking down at Suzy he question, “How can I help you.”
Suzy replied, “I would like to commission the construction of a wagon. It needs to be true to the times of the 1800’s. I will have to find a blacksmith to make the hardware. Do you think you can build it?”
Dave pinched his chin and assured, “I can do it, but not the wheels. I’m no wheelwright, but we can buy them from a place in Ohio. I have a blacksmith friend down the road. Let me give him a call.”
Dave pulled his phone from his pocket, “Tim all the hard ware for a Covered Wagon. How much? OK I’ll get back to you.”
Looking at Suzy Dave replied, “I was thinking about $5,000 for the wood work, and Tim said $2 to 3,000 for the hardware. Then with the wheels I’d guess about $10,000. You still interested?
Suzy smiled, “Can we get this in writing?”
Dave insisted, “I get 50 percent upfront on all custom orders.”
Suzy slipped her messenger bag from her shoulder and insisted, “Let’s do it.”
Dave instructed, “Step in my office.” Then he led Suzy to a dresser he was working on, and said, “We can do it here.”
Then he went to his workbench and got a work order. Dave explained, “It’s just a standard contract. With things like if you don’t pick it up within 60 days of completion you’ll be charged storage. All prices are estimates and can be more or less. I’m writing one 1800’s wagon for $10,000. Is that OK?”
Suzy pulled her checkbook from her messenger bag, and wrote a check for $10,000.
Seeing the check Dave insisted, “I said I only need half.”
Suzy explained, “I know but I have another project I want you to make. I also need an Empire style bed. There is one in Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse in Dention. Maybe you could drive by there and look at it and give me a price to make one. It needs to be made right down to the last detail.”
Dave assured, “That’s my specialty. I’ll drive down and look at it tomorrow.”
Writing her address and phone on the work order Suzy informed, “Just call me anytime. I want the bed true to the time.”
Dave replied, “Believe me you’ll be happy.”
Picking up the receipt Suzy headed back to the car.
Dave slid the barn door shut then threw his fist down and yelled, “Yah!”
Opening the car door Suzy smiled as she heard Dave yell. Then she went to get dinner.
At the Chinese restaurant her phone rang, “This is Suzy.”
“Suzy this is Wanda at One Stitch at a Time. I need Jim to come in tomorrow so I can get his measurements.”
Suzy informed, “I’ll see he gets there.”
Wanda replied, “Thanks Suzy.”
Malinda hypothesized, “Remember I said it was just a story, but I would think Jim would just have to put it together. I don’t think the guy that built the helicopter machined any parts. He built it from the ground up. Did that help?
Jim replied, “I got it I just have to build it not make it, right?”
Malinda answered, “That’s my thinking Jim, so how have you two been doing. Have you been staying out of that house?”
Suzy replied,” Sure have, and we’re having a pump made. We should be able to pick it up tomorrow. Jim ordered a pallet of rock salt, and it should be here Wednesday.”
Malinda assured, “I’m sure you’re going to do just fine. Just do what I said. Most people don’t listen to me and think I’m a quack. Then they can’t understand why things keep happening to them. I’m just glad you listened and are doing well. Is there anything else I can help you with?”
Suzy spoke up, “No that does it for now.”
Malinda ended, “Tell next time.”
The phone went dead and Suzy exclaimed, “There’s your answer Jim. If you have anything like that again just let me know. I’m sure we can work it out. I have some of my own problems like that. There not as important as your truck question, but don’t worry about it I’ll work it out.”
Jim looked puzzled and questioned, “Like what?”
Suzy smiled, “Like toilet paper, it wasn’t available yet. It wasn’t around for another ten years, unless you lived in New York. Then there’s that time of the month kind of thing. I’ve been thinking about a chamber pot too. You’re a guy and don’t think about things like that. You just find a tree.”
Jim got quiet and responded, “Oh.”
The next morning Jim complained, “I need to shave. The whiskers on my face itch like hell.”
Suzy yelled from her room, “There’s a razor under the sink.”
Coming into the kitchen he saw Suzy making pancakes again. Jim commented, “You’re spoiling the hell out of me.”
Suzy replied, “You’re building a truck for me, so how did the shaving go?”
Jim said, “That was like trying to use a spaghetti noodle on a Weed-Eater to cut grass. I need to get some bathroom stuff.”
Suzy agreed, “We can do that today. Then I need to go to Dention Vital Records office, so I can see if I can find Grandpas death certificate. I need to take you to the farm to get your truck, so we can pick up the pump.”
Jim added, “We can get all the hoses out of your trunk at the farm.”
At the farm they saw the slab had been poured. In and excited voice Suzy blurted, “Oh Jim your shop is going to be nice.”Suzy pulled back by the barn and parked. Jim opened the trunk and grabbed two hoses, as Suzy opened the barn door and peeked inside. Seeing a shadowy figure in the truck she spoke loudly, “Hi Autum.”
Jim dropped the hoses in front of the Diamond T, and went for another load. After putting all the hoses in the barn He went to his truck. Pumping the gas a few times he turned the key. With a rumble and a growl it came to life. Picking up his phone he called Steve, but the call went to voice mail. Jim laughed as he thought; He’s got the headphones on jamming out. The tractor looked no bigger than a matchbox car out in the field, so Jim left a message that he took the truck.
Suzy pulled out and Jim followed. Suzy parked in front of the Vital Records office, and Jim parked next to her. Getting out Jim announced, “I’m going to walk down the street and get a haircut well you do this. Suzy just waved as she walked in the door.
In the Dention Vital Records office Suzy announced, “Hi I’m looking for information on when Earl Hanson died. I know it was sometime in the 1870’s.”
The clerk informed, “Fill out this card with what you know, and we’ll see what we can find.”
The clerk came back with a large brown book. Took the card and opened the book. After flipping a few pages she looked up and said, “I’m not finding anything.
Suzy questioned, “You sure? You only checked that one page.
The clerk replied, “Sorry sweetie, but there were only about 30 deaths recorded for that entire decade.” Turning back a page she exclaimed, “Oh, I have a Marriage recorded for Earl Hanson and Edna Perkins on June 10, 1861, but there is no death listed for either one of them. You might check the newspaper of the time. The Lambert Times would be the best for around here as Dention never had a paper until the 60’s. If you can’t find it there you might try the State Vital Records office in Boise”
Suzy thanked her and left. Waiting in her car for Jim her phone rang, “Hello.”
Oliver questioned, “Is this Suzy?”
Suzy replied, “Yah go ahead Oliver.”
Oliver informed, “I got a guy in her right now that came in with ten silver dollars. There in the range you’re looking for. Some have the date wore off, but the ones you can read are from 1866 to 1870. I think I can get the lot for $2,000. That would be $200 a coin. You want me to get them? You know my 15% would be $300 on top of that.”
Suzy assured, “Go ahead Oliver. If you think it’s a deal do it.”
Oliver replied, “You got it little lady.”
Seeing Jim walking down the sidewalk Suzy hollered from the car window, “Jim over here.”
At the car Jim questioned, “What’s up?”
Suzy replied, “Get in we have to go to Lambert and look there. We’ll come back for the truck.”
Looking Jim over as he got in Suzy Inquired, “I thought you were getting a haircut?”
Jim replied, “It was over an hour wait, so I gave up on it.”
In Lambert they stopped at the library, and inquired about old newspapers. Jim was almost sure the curse happened in the fall of 1874. They decided to start in September and work from there. The first paper they pulled up was Thursday September 3, 1874. The paper was one page with three columns.
After looking through the paper they moved to the next issue Thursday September 10, 1874, but found nothing. Then when they got to the next issue Suzy exclaimed, “Oh my god Jim do you see this.”
The Lambert Times Thursday September 17, 1874
Rebecca’s Corner in Dention
On Friday Earl Hanson a prominent cattle man and the Saloon girl Margret Spaner went missing. Their disappearance comes at the same time that Suzan and James White left for Texas. It is rumored that they may be traveling with the white’s.
On Sunday the 13 when everyone was in church the Giddy Up Saloon burned to the ground. By a miracle Turners Guns and Hardware store next door only had some scorched spots.
Monday morning old man Peterson’s cow got loose and was found eating flowers in Miss Dudrow’s flower garden. Some school boy’s rounded up the cow, and returned it to its home.
Suzy slid her chair back and stared intensely at Jim as she mumbled, “Could it be?”
Jim read it again and questioned, “You think?”
Suzy questioned, “Do you think Suzan and James White is us?
Jim’s head was spinning as chills ran through his body. Suzy started looking through back issues of the paper for James and Suzan. Then she called out, “Oh crap! No way! That’s over two months.”
The Lambert Times Thursday July 16, 1874
Rebecca’s Corner in Dention
The White family donated and installed a hand pump for the kitchen in Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse. James and Suzan have become a welcome addition to the Boardinghouse. The eccentric Benjamin Belvedere claimed Jim and Suzy are a rare find, and are out of place for these times.
Jim read it again and again. Then he took Suzy’s hand and gave it a squeeze as he questioned, “What now?”
Suzy squeeze Jims hand tight and softly affirmed, “Nothing has changed. You build the truck, and I buy what we need. It’s just that I got a lot more to do.
The ride back to Jim’s truck was quiet as thoughts ran through Suzy’s head. She thought about all the things she would need. She needed a Wood worker and a black smith. She would need to have a wagon built to the standers of the time. She would also need barrels made of the sizes of the time. Then she thought, Oh Crap I need horses. I don’t know anything about horses. What do I need to know about buying a horse? I’ll have to learn that.
Back at the truck Jim told Suzy, “I’ll pick up the pump and then I’m going to the house. I’ll have Steve help me put it in on Wednesday.”
Suzy informed, “I have a stop to make then I’ll bring something home for dinner.”
Jim Replied. “See you then”
Suzy drove to a wood shop outside of Lambert.
It was an old barn, but she had heard Dave was a master and artist. His wood working was made with an eye for detail. This was the kind of work she would need.Pounding on the door to the barn she heard some machinery stop. Then the door slid open. There stood a tall man out of place for this time. His hair was long and hung over his shoulders. He had a well-trimmed beard and mustache. Looking down at Suzy he question, “How can I help you.”
Suzy replied, “I would like to commission the construction of a wagon. It needs to be true to the times of the 1800’s. I will have to find a blacksmith to make the hardware. Do you think you can build it?”
Dave pinched his chin and assured, “I can do it, but not the wheels. I’m no wheelwright, but we can buy them from a place in Ohio. I have a blacksmith friend down the road. Let me give him a call.”
Dave pulled his phone from his pocket, “Tim all the hard ware for a Covered Wagon. How much? OK I’ll get back to you.”
Looking at Suzy Dave replied, “I was thinking about $5,000 for the wood work, and Tim said $2 to 3,000 for the hardware. Then with the wheels I’d guess about $10,000. You still interested?
Suzy smiled, “Can we get this in writing?”
Dave insisted, “I get 50 percent upfront on all custom orders.”
Suzy slipped her messenger bag from her shoulder and insisted, “Let’s do it.”
Dave instructed, “Step in my office.” Then he led Suzy to a dresser he was working on, and said, “We can do it here.”
Then he went to his workbench and got a work order. Dave explained, “It’s just a standard contract. With things like if you don’t pick it up within 60 days of completion you’ll be charged storage. All prices are estimates and can be more or less. I’m writing one 1800’s wagon for $10,000. Is that OK?”
Suzy pulled her checkbook from her messenger bag, and wrote a check for $10,000.
Seeing the check Dave insisted, “I said I only need half.”
Suzy explained, “I know but I have another project I want you to make. I also need an Empire style bed. There is one in Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse in Dention. Maybe you could drive by there and look at it and give me a price to make one. It needs to be made right down to the last detail.”
Dave assured, “That’s my specialty. I’ll drive down and look at it tomorrow.”
Writing her address and phone on the work order Suzy informed, “Just call me anytime. I want the bed true to the time.”
Dave replied, “Believe me you’ll be happy.”
Picking up the receipt Suzy headed back to the car.
Dave slid the barn door shut then threw his fist down and yelled, “Yah!”
Opening the car door Suzy smiled as she heard Dave yell. Then she went to get dinner.
At the Chinese restaurant her phone rang, “This is Suzy.”
“Suzy this is Wanda at One Stitch at a Time. I need Jim to come in tomorrow so I can get his measurements.”
Suzy informed, “I’ll see he gets there.”
Wanda replied, “Thanks Suzy.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Eight – To Trap a Witch
At home Suzy found Jim passed out in front of the computer. She went to the kitchen and put the food on the table, and went back for Jim.
The next morning Jim awoke to the smell of bacon cooking.
As Jim came in the kitchen Suzy announced, “Good morning sleepy head.”
Like every morning three pancakes were sitting on Jim’s plate.
Flipping a pancake Suzy question, “What are you doing today?”
Jim mumbled, “Going to check out a motor shop”
Setting the bacon on the table Suzy insisted, “I want to go.”
Jim assured, “No problem. I kind of need some time with you anyway. Autum came to me last night.”
Suzy questioned, “What did she tell you?”
“Nothing really,” Jim explained, “We just cuddled and she whispered let Suzy do it. I tried to ask what, but every time she would put her finger over her lips and go shhhh. I never did find out what she meant.”
Suzy assured, “Don’t worry about it Jim whatever it is I‘ll do it. Just build the truck Jim.”
After breakfast they went to Lambert Performance & Machine. Inside Jim talked to the owner about the Hercules Engine, and Suzy walked off with the owner’s son Gene.
She told Gene about the shop they were building, and asked, “What would you recommend for a shop like that?”
Gene informed, “The heart of this place is the overhead crane, and the air compressor I would say it’s a must have. What kind of motor is he having built?”
Suzy replied, “I don’t know. It’s in an old 1940 something army truck. Jim’s stripping it down to the frame, and rebuilding everything.”
Gene exclaimed, “Oh yah an overhead crane is a must. He will need it to take the cab off and put it back on. He’ll need it for the box, motor, and even the bumpers. He’d love it so much just for moving something from one side of the shop to the other. Let me show you the heart of any shop.”
Then Gene took Suzy out back of the shop. He opened the door to a small building, and pointed to the air compressor. We keep it out here because it’s noisy.”
Just then the compressor kicked on and Gene yelled, “See what I mean.”
Gene shut the door as Suzy commented, “I see what you mean.” Then she opened the flap on her messenger bag, and pulled out her note pad. She was writing down the name on the compressor.
Then Gene said, “We can head back to the office. I’ll pull the invoice for the compressor purchase, and make you a copy and one for the crane too. Do you know when you’ll bring in the motor?”
Suzy replied, “No time soon, but we’ll have it here as soon as we can.”
At the office Suzy looked over the invoice for the air compressor, “20 HP Air Compressor, 3 Phase, 120 Gallon Tank, Horizontal, Industrial.”
Suzy questioned, “Gene this compressor is $5,000 you sure we need something this big? This is a big shop with a lot of machines. Ours is only going to be a quarter this size.”
Gene insisted, “I know, but with that rusty old stuff you do a lot of sandblasting. It takes a lot of air for that, and the last thing you want is to have to keep stopping for the compressor to catch-up.”
Jim and Gene’s dad Bill came into the office. Bill exclaimed, “Looks like you’re going to do your first Hercules Engine Gene.”
Jim looked at Suzy, “They can’t order or do anything until they get the motor took apart, and see what they got. I guess when we get tires the motor is my next job.
Suzy replied, “Tomorrow is your big day. You have to put in the pump, do the salt, and pick up the tires.”
Jim shook his head, “Let’s go.”
Suzy slipped the papers in her messenger bag, turned her head, and said, “Thanks Gene.”
Gene just nodded as she went out the door.
At the farm down the road from Dave’s Wood Working. Dave was talking to Tim. “The check was good, so I need you to help me come up with plans for a covered wagon. I believe I can build the wagon in two months or so. That means I have to get you pounding iron as soon as possible.
Tim assured, “We should be able to buy plans on the internet, and download them today.”
In the car Suzy exclaimed, “Oh I almost forgot you need to go to One Stitch at a Time. They need to get your measurements.”
Jim questioned, “Can we do it now?”
Suzy replied, “We’re on our way, and after that we need to get holsters for our guns.”
Jim questioned, “What guns?”
Suzy smiled, “Why the Peacemakers I’m getting us of course.”
Jim just shook his head and rolled his eyes.
After getting Jim measured they were off to Tan and Hide Leather. In the show room Suzy talked to the salesmen, “I need to have two 1800's old west gun holsters.
The salesmen replied we have them in stock. Let me get a brochure. He showed Suzy the picture. Then informed, “The holster has floral tooling and a snap closure. Produced in Mexico by skilled craftsmen, this south-of-the-border original was ubiquitous in the 1800's Southwest. You can fill up the loops of your belt with 44/40 caliber rounds. Pictured here with our Nickel Plated Colt "Peacemaker" replica, sold separately. The belts are sized by "hip" size, not waist size, so measure your hips at the point you intend to wear the belt. For most folks, this means 4 inches larger than their waist size. This holster is right-hand draw, and sized for standard frame revolver up to a 6 inch barrel. Number of loops may vary. The holster features a leather leg tie strap, and also an adjustable leather hammer loop to secure your revolver. The holster is adjustable for a good fit on your revolver. It comes in Chocolate Brown Tooled Leather. Its $149.95, and I have them in stock. If I don’t have your size I can have it here in two weeks.”
Suzy blurted, “Jim’s a 32 and I’m.” Then she cupped her hand around the salesmen’s ear and whispered.
The salesmen replied, “OK I’ll just add 4 inches to that and see what we have.”
Soon the salesmen appeared with two Old West Leather Gun Belts. Jim and Suzy tried them on. Jim looked at Suzy, did a fast draw, and said, “Yours is hanging low like a gunslinger.”
Suzy smiled, “Jim, I’m wearing a dress you silly guy. It will be fine with pants and a belt.”
After paying with her bank card they went to the car. Opening the car door Suzy’s phone rang, “Hello.”
Oliver replied, “Hay little lady. I got you some nickels. I got a coffee can full for $1,500. The dealer I got them from said there is 2,000 nickels in the can. That’s a $100 face value. Not a bad deal if I say so myself. The only thing is its heavy. I would say you should get a metal box to put your coins in.”
Excited Suzy bubbled, “Way to go Oliver. You ok on money?”
Oliver insisted, “No worries for now little lady. I’ll just put this in the safe with your other money. Have a nice day.”
Suzy’s phone went off again, “Hello.”
Dave questioned, “Is this Suzy?”
Suzy replied, “Yes.”
Dave continued, “This is Dave and I’m down here at Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse looking at that bed. It’s a work of art, but I’m sure I can copy it for about five grand. I would need half that up front.”
Suzy replied, “I’m glad you called Dave. I have another job for your Blacksmith friend. I need a metal lock box. I’ll send a picture to your phone. Go ahead with the bed, and get me a price for the box.”
Dave replied, “You got it Suzy.”
Jim commented, “Your busy today.”
Pulling into B&B Construction Suzy replied, “It seems everything I do gives me two more things to do.”
Jim just smiled. Then they went in to talk to Dan. Inside Suze told Dan that he needed to hire an Electrician. Suzy explained. “We need a 3 Phase Electric service on its own meter for the shop, and we need the shop wired”
Dan rolled his chair back from his desk, and questioned, “This is separate?”
Suzy assured, “Don’t worry Dan this is a different contract, but needs to be done as soon as possible. I also need to get an overhead crane put in the building.”
Then Suzy opened her messenger bag and retrieved the paperwork for the air compressor and overhead crane. Then she laid them on Dan’s desk. Rolling his chair back up to his desk Dan looked them over.
Suzy continued, “I need another building built behind the shop for the air compressor. I would like you to order the crane and compressor as soon as possible”
With a smile Suzy requested, “Please.”
Dan looked at Jim and commented, “You see that smile Jim? It’s dangerous.”
Jim replied, “I’m not touching that.” Then he got up and left.
Through the window Jim saw Suzy and Dan shaking hands. Then she came out to Jim with a big smile on her face, “I see you got the pump loaded, and I got you an 8X10 building for your compressor.”
The next morning at 4:00 AM Jim’s alarm went off. He got up and got dressed. Then went to the kitchen and made a pot of coffee. Suzy slept peacefully in her room, as Autum came to her. Autum took Suzy to a place in the woods, and whispered, “This is where you have to do it. You have to kill them both here they can’t live. You understand that you have to do it not Jim. Look around Suzy this is the place you have to kill them, or it will send a wake through the time passages.
Autum smiled as she told Suzy she liked the truck. You made a good choice Suzy I like it a lot. I’ve been sitting in it every day and it’s perfect. Edna would follow me at first, but now she thinks it’s nothing. That’s when you have to trap her when I’m in the truck. I know you can see me in the dark, so I trust you. Now wake! Wake up Suzy Jim needs you! Then the bed started to shake and Suzy fell to the floor.
Sitting up trying to gather her thoughts she exclaimed, “Dang Autum I heard you. You didn’t have to throw me out of the bed.”
Suzy got up and walk to the bathroom. Passing Jim’s bed she saw he was up. Returning from the bathroom she hollered, “Jim!” There was no answer, so she looked out the window. Jim’s truck was gone. She thought, oh crap he went to meet Steve at the farm.
She raced to her room, threw on some work close, and ran to the car. Pulling in the drive way she saw Jim and Steve by the barn. They were doing something to the tractor. She parked in front of the slab for the shop, and walked over to Jim and Steve.
Jim informed, “Were putting the hay forks on the tractor, so we can unload the salt.”
Suzy questioned, “Why didn’t you wake me?”
Jim replied, “I got up at four so I could meet Steve at five. I knew you were coming here, so I just let you sleep.”
Suzy inquired, “So now that I’m here what can I do?”
Jim replied, “You can get the hoses from the barn, and carry them over by the pump house.”
Suzy slid the door open a crack and looked at the truck, but she did not see Autum. Pushing the door open a little further she went in and got a hose in each hand. Then she carried them to the pump house.
Steve commented, “You know Jim at first I thought that was your wife. Then I thought it was your girlfriend, because you spend all your time at her place. Now I’m not really sure. You kind of act that way but not really. I will tell you though, if I wasn’t married. I’d go for her in a hot second. She’s one gorgeous woman, and always seems happy.”
Jim laughed. “I know what you mean Steve. I’d go for her too, but she’s my cousin.”
Steve commented, “Looks like we’re both out of luck.”
Walking by Suzy slapped Jim on the butt and scolded, “Get to work were not paying Steve to stand around and talk to you”
Steve snickered, “Guess we got told.”
After putting the forks on the tractor Jim and Steve got the pump off the truck. Then using the tractor Steve drove the pump over by the pump house. Jim and Steve unloaded the pump, and started screwing the hoses together. They used one hose to hook two the pump house and the other end to the pump.
At home Suzy found Jim passed out in front of the computer. She went to the kitchen and put the food on the table, and went back for Jim.
The next morning Jim awoke to the smell of bacon cooking.
As Jim came in the kitchen Suzy announced, “Good morning sleepy head.”
Like every morning three pancakes were sitting on Jim’s plate.
Flipping a pancake Suzy question, “What are you doing today?”
Jim mumbled, “Going to check out a motor shop”
Setting the bacon on the table Suzy insisted, “I want to go.”
Jim assured, “No problem. I kind of need some time with you anyway. Autum came to me last night.”
Suzy questioned, “What did she tell you?”
“Nothing really,” Jim explained, “We just cuddled and she whispered let Suzy do it. I tried to ask what, but every time she would put her finger over her lips and go shhhh. I never did find out what she meant.”
Suzy assured, “Don’t worry about it Jim whatever it is I‘ll do it. Just build the truck Jim.”
After breakfast they went to Lambert Performance & Machine. Inside Jim talked to the owner about the Hercules Engine, and Suzy walked off with the owner’s son Gene.
She told Gene about the shop they were building, and asked, “What would you recommend for a shop like that?”
Gene informed, “The heart of this place is the overhead crane, and the air compressor I would say it’s a must have. What kind of motor is he having built?”
Suzy replied, “I don’t know. It’s in an old 1940 something army truck. Jim’s stripping it down to the frame, and rebuilding everything.”
Gene exclaimed, “Oh yah an overhead crane is a must. He will need it to take the cab off and put it back on. He’ll need it for the box, motor, and even the bumpers. He’d love it so much just for moving something from one side of the shop to the other. Let me show you the heart of any shop.”
Then Gene took Suzy out back of the shop. He opened the door to a small building, and pointed to the air compressor. We keep it out here because it’s noisy.”
Just then the compressor kicked on and Gene yelled, “See what I mean.”
Gene shut the door as Suzy commented, “I see what you mean.” Then she opened the flap on her messenger bag, and pulled out her note pad. She was writing down the name on the compressor.
Then Gene said, “We can head back to the office. I’ll pull the invoice for the compressor purchase, and make you a copy and one for the crane too. Do you know when you’ll bring in the motor?”
Suzy replied, “No time soon, but we’ll have it here as soon as we can.”
At the office Suzy looked over the invoice for the air compressor, “20 HP Air Compressor, 3 Phase, 120 Gallon Tank, Horizontal, Industrial.”
Suzy questioned, “Gene this compressor is $5,000 you sure we need something this big? This is a big shop with a lot of machines. Ours is only going to be a quarter this size.”
Gene insisted, “I know, but with that rusty old stuff you do a lot of sandblasting. It takes a lot of air for that, and the last thing you want is to have to keep stopping for the compressor to catch-up.”
Jim and Gene’s dad Bill came into the office. Bill exclaimed, “Looks like you’re going to do your first Hercules Engine Gene.”
Jim looked at Suzy, “They can’t order or do anything until they get the motor took apart, and see what they got. I guess when we get tires the motor is my next job.
Suzy replied, “Tomorrow is your big day. You have to put in the pump, do the salt, and pick up the tires.”
Jim shook his head, “Let’s go.”
Suzy slipped the papers in her messenger bag, turned her head, and said, “Thanks Gene.”
Gene just nodded as she went out the door.
At the farm down the road from Dave’s Wood Working. Dave was talking to Tim. “The check was good, so I need you to help me come up with plans for a covered wagon. I believe I can build the wagon in two months or so. That means I have to get you pounding iron as soon as possible.
Tim assured, “We should be able to buy plans on the internet, and download them today.”
In the car Suzy exclaimed, “Oh I almost forgot you need to go to One Stitch at a Time. They need to get your measurements.”
Jim questioned, “Can we do it now?”
Suzy replied, “We’re on our way, and after that we need to get holsters for our guns.”
Jim questioned, “What guns?”
Suzy smiled, “Why the Peacemakers I’m getting us of course.”
Jim just shook his head and rolled his eyes.
After getting Jim measured they were off to Tan and Hide Leather. In the show room Suzy talked to the salesmen, “I need to have two 1800's old west gun holsters.
The salesmen replied we have them in stock. Let me get a brochure. He showed Suzy the picture. Then informed, “The holster has floral tooling and a snap closure. Produced in Mexico by skilled craftsmen, this south-of-the-border original was ubiquitous in the 1800's Southwest. You can fill up the loops of your belt with 44/40 caliber rounds. Pictured here with our Nickel Plated Colt "Peacemaker" replica, sold separately. The belts are sized by "hip" size, not waist size, so measure your hips at the point you intend to wear the belt. For most folks, this means 4 inches larger than their waist size. This holster is right-hand draw, and sized for standard frame revolver up to a 6 inch barrel. Number of loops may vary. The holster features a leather leg tie strap, and also an adjustable leather hammer loop to secure your revolver. The holster is adjustable for a good fit on your revolver. It comes in Chocolate Brown Tooled Leather. Its $149.95, and I have them in stock. If I don’t have your size I can have it here in two weeks.”
Suzy blurted, “Jim’s a 32 and I’m.” Then she cupped her hand around the salesmen’s ear and whispered.
The salesmen replied, “OK I’ll just add 4 inches to that and see what we have.”Soon the salesmen appeared with two Old West Leather Gun Belts. Jim and Suzy tried them on. Jim looked at Suzy, did a fast draw, and said, “Yours is hanging low like a gunslinger.”
Suzy smiled, “Jim, I’m wearing a dress you silly guy. It will be fine with pants and a belt.”
After paying with her bank card they went to the car. Opening the car door Suzy’s phone rang, “Hello.”
Oliver replied, “Hay little lady. I got you some nickels. I got a coffee can full for $1,500. The dealer I got them from said there is 2,000 nickels in the can. That’s a $100 face value. Not a bad deal if I say so myself. The only thing is its heavy. I would say you should get a metal box to put your coins in.”Excited Suzy bubbled, “Way to go Oliver. You ok on money?”
Oliver insisted, “No worries for now little lady. I’ll just put this in the safe with your other money. Have a nice day.”
Suzy’s phone went off again, “Hello.”Dave questioned, “Is this Suzy?”
Suzy replied, “Yes.”
Dave continued, “This is Dave and I’m down here at Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse looking at that bed. It’s a work of art, but I’m sure I can copy it for about five grand. I would need half that up front.”
Suzy replied, “I’m glad you called Dave. I have another job for your Blacksmith friend. I need a metal lock box. I’ll send a picture to your phone. Go ahead with the bed, and get me a price for the box.”
Dave replied, “You got it Suzy.”
Jim commented, “Your busy today.”
Pulling into B&B Construction Suzy replied, “It seems everything I do gives me two more things to do.”
Jim just smiled. Then they went in to talk to Dan. Inside Suze told Dan that he needed to hire an Electrician. Suzy explained. “We need a 3 Phase Electric service on its own meter for the shop, and we need the shop wired”
Dan rolled his chair back from his desk, and questioned, “This is separate?”
Suzy assured, “Don’t worry Dan this is a different contract, but needs to be done as soon as possible. I also need to get an overhead crane put in the building.”
Then Suzy opened her messenger bag and retrieved the paperwork for the air compressor and overhead crane. Then she laid them on Dan’s desk. Rolling his chair back up to his desk Dan looked them over.
Suzy continued, “I need another building built behind the shop for the air compressor. I would like you to order the crane and compressor as soon as possible”
With a smile Suzy requested, “Please.”
Dan looked at Jim and commented, “You see that smile Jim? It’s dangerous.”
Jim replied, “I’m not touching that.” Then he got up and left.
Through the window Jim saw Suzy and Dan shaking hands. Then she came out to Jim with a big smile on her face, “I see you got the pump loaded, and I got you an 8X10 building for your compressor.”
The next morning at 4:00 AM Jim’s alarm went off. He got up and got dressed. Then went to the kitchen and made a pot of coffee. Suzy slept peacefully in her room, as Autum came to her. Autum took Suzy to a place in the woods, and whispered, “This is where you have to do it. You have to kill them both here they can’t live. You understand that you have to do it not Jim. Look around Suzy this is the place you have to kill them, or it will send a wake through the time passages.
Autum smiled as she told Suzy she liked the truck. You made a good choice Suzy I like it a lot. I’ve been sitting in it every day and it’s perfect. Edna would follow me at first, but now she thinks it’s nothing. That’s when you have to trap her when I’m in the truck. I know you can see me in the dark, so I trust you. Now wake! Wake up Suzy Jim needs you! Then the bed started to shake and Suzy fell to the floor.
Sitting up trying to gather her thoughts she exclaimed, “Dang Autum I heard you. You didn’t have to throw me out of the bed.”
Suzy got up and walk to the bathroom. Passing Jim’s bed she saw he was up. Returning from the bathroom she hollered, “Jim!” There was no answer, so she looked out the window. Jim’s truck was gone. She thought, oh crap he went to meet Steve at the farm.
She raced to her room, threw on some work close, and ran to the car. Pulling in the drive way she saw Jim and Steve by the barn. They were doing something to the tractor. She parked in front of the slab for the shop, and walked over to Jim and Steve.
Jim informed, “Were putting the hay forks on the tractor, so we can unload the salt.”
Suzy questioned, “Why didn’t you wake me?”
Jim replied, “I got up at four so I could meet Steve at five. I knew you were coming here, so I just let you sleep.”
Suzy inquired, “So now that I’m here what can I do?”
Jim replied, “You can get the hoses from the barn, and carry them over by the pump house.”
Suzy slid the door open a crack and looked at the truck, but she did not see Autum. Pushing the door open a little further she went in and got a hose in each hand. Then she carried them to the pump house.
Steve commented, “You know Jim at first I thought that was your wife. Then I thought it was your girlfriend, because you spend all your time at her place. Now I’m not really sure. You kind of act that way but not really. I will tell you though, if I wasn’t married. I’d go for her in a hot second. She’s one gorgeous woman, and always seems happy.”
Jim laughed. “I know what you mean Steve. I’d go for her too, but she’s my cousin.”
Steve commented, “Looks like we’re both out of luck.”
Walking by Suzy slapped Jim on the butt and scolded, “Get to work were not paying Steve to stand around and talk to you”
Steve snickered, “Guess we got told.”
After putting the forks on the tractor Jim and Steve got the pump off the truck. Then using the tractor Steve drove the pump over by the pump house. Jim and Steve unloaded the pump, and started screwing the hoses together. They used one hose to hook two the pump house and the other end to the pump.
gonewacky
Veteran Member
He plugged the pump in to the outlet on the pump house, and turned on the water. When the tank was full he turned on the pump, and ran it until water came out of the hose. Then he turned the pump off and looked at Suzy.
Suzy divulged, “It’s not time yet Jim I don’t know what’s going on. She might be waiting for the salt to arrive.
Jim announced, “I’ll call Bruce and find out when it will be here.”
Jim pulled his phone and made a call. After talking to Bruce he found it wouldn’t be until afternoon, so he told Suzy that he would take Steve to get the tires. Then we can meet at the Dirty Cow Girl. Suzy agreed. Then Jim and Steve left in Jim’s truck.
On the way to the tire store Jim confessed, “Steve there’s something that I half to tell you. There’s a curse on that property, and the spirit of a witch is in the house. What we’re going to do is try to trap the witch in the house. If you don’t want to help me do this tell me now, and I’ll let you go home when we get back. I’ll just pay you for the rest of the day, and we can start fresh tomorrow.”
Steve replied, “I’ve heard the stories, and they don’t scare me. I think everyone around here knows about that. When I was a kid in school we used to sing a nursery rhyme. It went, Edna, Edna quite contrary, how does your Knife glow? In Emma’s eye you know. The blood made her head red, and then she was dead.
Jim was taken back by Steve’s candor, and was quiet for a while. After some time Jim replied, “I just wanted you to know what you were getting into Steve. I don’t fear for my own safety, because if the witch kills me the curse end’s.”
Steve replied, “I never was worried anyway. As I understand it the witch only kills women. I would think if anyone is in danger it would be Suzy.”
Jim informed, “Suzy isn’t a Hanson, so I think she’s protected from that part of the curse. However I do believe the Witch sees Suzy as a threat. I just don’t know why. I do know that Autum is protecting her when we’re at the farm.”
Steve was quiet and didn’t say a word the rest of the way to the tire shop, as Jim explained the plan to him.
After picking up the tires Jim and Steve headed back to meet Suzy. At the Dirty Cow Girl they found Suzy drinking coffee. Taking a seat next to Suzy Jim questioned, “You ready for this Suzy?”
Suzy replied, “No not really, but it has to be done. I don’t see any way around it. I’m sure the witch knows we’re up to something, but I don’t think she knows what. If she figures that out she’ll do everything she can to stop us.”
Steve took a seat across from Suzy and Jim, as the waitress came to the table. Steve spoke up, “I’ll have a burger and a coke.”
Jim announced, “Same for me.”
Looking at Suzy the waitress question, “How about you ma’am?”
Suzy replied, “The coffee is fine for me.
As the waitress walked away Jim questioned, “You OK Suzy?”
Suzy whined, “No! Something just doesn’t feel right about this. I can’t understand why I couldn’t see Autum. Do you think the witch knows what is going on?”
Jim hypothesized, “I think the witch is from a different time, and might not understand about motors and electric pumps. The things of our time are strange to her. Then again she might know we’re trying to trap her.”
Steve butted in, “I think we should do it fast. Take the hose by the middle and drag it halfway around the house. Then turn on the pump, and I’ll run the end of the hose around the house as fast as I can. Then we can do the rock salt.”
They all agreed on Steve’s plan and ate lunch. Then they headed back to the Farm.
Jim took the middle of the hose and stretched it halfway around the house. Steve turned on the water and pump. Suzy stood at the door of the barn. Looking at the truck she saw Autum sitting inside, and gave Steve the thumbs up.
Steve took the end of the hose and ran like a bat out of hell around the house. Jumping over the hose coming out of the pump he yelled, “Woohoo got ya.” Then he hooked the end to the tank. He felt a chill go up his spine, as it got eerily cold.
The sky started to cloud up, and Jim yelled, “I think we pissed her off.” Then a lightning bolt came down right in front of them. In the flash Jim could see Autum holding a dome of protection around Suzy, as she threw a ball of bright flashing colored light at the house. Jim fell to his knees in disbelief as he stared at Autum and Suzy. He could see Autum with every flash. The thunder echoed in his head, and made his body shake with each flash.
Then Jim looked at the porch and saw the witch, as the ball exploded surrounding the Witch with flashes of light, and millions of tiny flickering stars. A chair flew off the porch, and burst into flames, as it landed on the hose. Steve ran and kicked the chair. It flipped off the hose, and Steve raised about three feet in the air. Then he flew backwards landing on his butt. The Lightning stopped, and the clouds started to part.
Jim got up and ran to Suzy as he exclaimed, “Damn Suzy the witch tried to kill you. I saw Autum protecting you.”
Suzy stuttered, “I, I know. I saw her standing next to me the whole time.”
Steve walked over, “Hay did you see the witch on the porch?”
Jim nodded and Suzy replied, “Oh ya I saw her. Boy did I see her.”
Steve disclosed, “I’m shaking a little. That was the most intense thing I’ve ever done. Too bad no one will ever believe me that it happened.”
Just then they all turned and looked. Bruce was coming down the driveway with the rock salt.
Jim announced, “Time to start phase two. Everyone act normal.”
Steve mumbled, “Like that’s going to happen.”
They all gathered around the truck as Bruce climbed down from the cab. Jim insisted that Bruce see the new slab for his shop. As they walked around the slab and talked Steve blurted, “A lightning bolt hit right in front of me, and blew me back ten feet.”
Bruce exclaimed, “I saw the thunderstorm pass over just before I pulled in. Really Steve are you sure?”
Pointing Steve insisted, “See that burning chair over there. I was standing right next to it.”
Bruce questioned, “You pulling my leg Steve?
Jim divulged, “Well I saw a flash and looked up. Steve was flying backwards and the chair was on fire. I sure didn’t set it on fire.”
Bruce thought, “Damn bad things do happing here.” Then he announced, “I need to get going.”
Jim went over and got the tractor as Bruce turned around the truck. No sooner than Jim picked up the pallet Bruce pulled the truck forward, and sped down the driveway. They all just stared as Bruce drove out of sight.
Jim drove around the house and Steve unloaded two bags about every ten feet. Then Jim parked the tractor, and started pouring out the salt. Steve worked on the bags going one way, and Jim worked on the others going the other way. Suzy was picking up the empty bags when it happened.
Edna called out, “I call upon the Ancient powers, to mask us now and in future hours. Hide us well and thoroughly. Like a chameleon I now change to Autum.”
Jim watched the rock salt pour to the ground from the bag, as he heard, “Jim help me… Help me Jim…”
Looking up he saw Autum was trapped on the other side of the hose. His mind raced, how could this happen? I saw you with Suzy. Drawn like a magnet to metal Jim dropped the bag, and headed for Autum. “I’ll get you out,” Jim assured.
Seeing Jim step over the hose Suzy yelled, “Jim No!”
She ran to Jim and grabbed his hand yelling, “It’s not Autum Jim she’s out here!”
Giving Jim a jerk they both flew backwards away from the hose, as the Witch let out a loud laugh.
Suzy whispered, “Don’t be tricked Jim. The witch is a deceiver and can put thoughts in your mind.”
Edna called out, “I call on the Serpent. Mingle with the living, and bend them to your way.”
Steve poured out his last bag and headed to the porta-potty. Opening the door he let out a yell, and jumped backwards. Falling to the ground in the process he crawled on his hands and knees.
Suzy called out, “What is it Steve?”
Making it to his feet he exclaimed, “Its Snakes! The out-house is full of Snakes! There are thousands of them in there.”
Suzy went to the porta-potty and opened the door. Looking inside she exclaimed, “Nothing in here but the seat and a roll of TP.”
Steve argued, “I swear it was full of hissing Snakes!”
Suzy nodded, “The witch! She is doing all she can to deceive us.
With the rock salt ring done they gathered by the tractor. Jim looked to Steve and questioned, “You sure you want to keep working here? I’ll understand if you don’t want to come back.”
Steve replied, “Look Jim this is the best job I’ve ever had. I have a kickback boss that’s letting me run the show. Heck it’s like I’m the boss. The pay’s good, I don’t have anyone riding my ass, and I got a hell of a benefit package.”
Jim questioned, “Benefit package? What benefit package?”
Suzy spoke up, “Oh yah I gave Steve a ten percent crop share for when we’re gone. You know for when you finish the truck, and we go on vacation. Someone has to watch over the place well we’re gone.”
Jim just shrugged his shoulders and explained, “I thought now would be a good time to pull the motor out of the truck. I have the forks on the tractor and I can use them to pull the motor. I think Steve and I can do it by the end of the day, and have it loaded on the truck.”
Suzy barked at Jim, “Jim you have to do it all.”
Jim smiled, “I’m not building anything. I’m tearing it apart.”
Suzy laughed, “Oh yah. We got this. Go ahead Jim.”
Suzy watched as Jim and Steve pulled the motor and put it on the truck.
The next morning Jim awoke to the smell of bacon cooking. Putting on his pants he staggered into the kitchen to find Suzy sitting at the table eating. Like every morning three pancakes were sitting on Jim’s plate with bacon. Taking a seat Jim questioned, “You in a hurry or something this morning?”
Suzy replied, “No, you’re just late getting up.”
Jim mumbled, “I know. I just hurt this morning. I haven’t done a day’s work like that in a while, and it took its toll on me.”
Suzy questioned, “You dropping off the Motor today?”
Jim responded, “I called Gene yesterday and told him I would try to get it in today.”
Suzy responded, “Good, I want to talk to Gene about something.”
Jim smiled and questioned, “You hot on him or something?”
Suzy smiled, “Maybe, after all his dad dose own a high-end Machine Shop worth millions. He’s smart, good looking, and nice. I really just want to talk to him about the truck.”
Jim insisted, “Me to.”
After eating they headed to Lambert Performance & Machine. In the office Gene told Jim to pull around to the first rollup door and back in. Pulling around the side of the building Jim lined up the truck with the door and started backing it up. The door opened and there stood Gene guiding him in. Gene waved for Jim to stop, so Jim set the break and turned off the truck.
As Jim walked back Gene got up on the truck and exclaimed, “Oh good it still has the lifting hooks on it. Grabbing the chains hanging from the overhead crane Gene hooked them to the motor, as Jim undid the come-along holding the motor down. Climbing off the truck Gene grabbed the remote for the crane. Pushing a button the motor lifted off the truck.
Gene looked at Jim and commented, “You’ll be able to unload it with one of these when you get it back.”
Then Gene moved the motor across the shop to the teardown bench. Setting the motor on the bench Gene announced, “Sweet, you’re going to love yours Jim. Let’s walk to the office.”
They walked through the shop to the office where Suzy was waiting at the counter.
Jim stood next to Suzy and Gene went behind the counter. Jim questioned, “Could you recommend a place to have the brake drums turned Gene. The brake shoes were frozen to the drums, and I had to use a sledgehammer to get them off. ”
Gene replied. “Just bring them in and I’ll send them out for you.”
Suzy questioned, “How much Gene?”
Gene rolled his eyes, “I have no idea what this would cost. I need to find out what we can get and what we need to make. If I was to guess I would say ten grand, but don’t hold me to that. It’s just a guess.”
Suzy questioned, “How about tools Gene? When taking out the motor Jim was bitching the whole time. He wished he had this and that. He was cussing because he didn’t have an impact. Whatever that is?”
Gene and Jim laughed. Then Gene replied, “A friend of my dad’s was just in the other day. Ray and my dad have been doing business for thirty years. Ray owns a small auto shop and is retiring. He was telling my dad he would sale all his tools for ten thousand. I would say it was a good deal for what he has.”
Suzy divulged, “It’s not time yet Jim I don’t know what’s going on. She might be waiting for the salt to arrive.
Jim announced, “I’ll call Bruce and find out when it will be here.”
Jim pulled his phone and made a call. After talking to Bruce he found it wouldn’t be until afternoon, so he told Suzy that he would take Steve to get the tires. Then we can meet at the Dirty Cow Girl. Suzy agreed. Then Jim and Steve left in Jim’s truck.
On the way to the tire store Jim confessed, “Steve there’s something that I half to tell you. There’s a curse on that property, and the spirit of a witch is in the house. What we’re going to do is try to trap the witch in the house. If you don’t want to help me do this tell me now, and I’ll let you go home when we get back. I’ll just pay you for the rest of the day, and we can start fresh tomorrow.”
Steve replied, “I’ve heard the stories, and they don’t scare me. I think everyone around here knows about that. When I was a kid in school we used to sing a nursery rhyme. It went, Edna, Edna quite contrary, how does your Knife glow? In Emma’s eye you know. The blood made her head red, and then she was dead.
Jim was taken back by Steve’s candor, and was quiet for a while. After some time Jim replied, “I just wanted you to know what you were getting into Steve. I don’t fear for my own safety, because if the witch kills me the curse end’s.”
Steve replied, “I never was worried anyway. As I understand it the witch only kills women. I would think if anyone is in danger it would be Suzy.”
Jim informed, “Suzy isn’t a Hanson, so I think she’s protected from that part of the curse. However I do believe the Witch sees Suzy as a threat. I just don’t know why. I do know that Autum is protecting her when we’re at the farm.”
Steve was quiet and didn’t say a word the rest of the way to the tire shop, as Jim explained the plan to him.
After picking up the tires Jim and Steve headed back to meet Suzy. At the Dirty Cow Girl they found Suzy drinking coffee. Taking a seat next to Suzy Jim questioned, “You ready for this Suzy?”
Suzy replied, “No not really, but it has to be done. I don’t see any way around it. I’m sure the witch knows we’re up to something, but I don’t think she knows what. If she figures that out she’ll do everything she can to stop us.”
Steve took a seat across from Suzy and Jim, as the waitress came to the table. Steve spoke up, “I’ll have a burger and a coke.”
Jim announced, “Same for me.”
Looking at Suzy the waitress question, “How about you ma’am?”
Suzy replied, “The coffee is fine for me.
As the waitress walked away Jim questioned, “You OK Suzy?”
Suzy whined, “No! Something just doesn’t feel right about this. I can’t understand why I couldn’t see Autum. Do you think the witch knows what is going on?”
Jim hypothesized, “I think the witch is from a different time, and might not understand about motors and electric pumps. The things of our time are strange to her. Then again she might know we’re trying to trap her.”
Steve butted in, “I think we should do it fast. Take the hose by the middle and drag it halfway around the house. Then turn on the pump, and I’ll run the end of the hose around the house as fast as I can. Then we can do the rock salt.”
They all agreed on Steve’s plan and ate lunch. Then they headed back to the Farm.
Jim took the middle of the hose and stretched it halfway around the house. Steve turned on the water and pump. Suzy stood at the door of the barn. Looking at the truck she saw Autum sitting inside, and gave Steve the thumbs up.
Steve took the end of the hose and ran like a bat out of hell around the house. Jumping over the hose coming out of the pump he yelled, “Woohoo got ya.” Then he hooked the end to the tank. He felt a chill go up his spine, as it got eerily cold.
The sky started to cloud up, and Jim yelled, “I think we pissed her off.” Then a lightning bolt came down right in front of them. In the flash Jim could see Autum holding a dome of protection around Suzy, as she threw a ball of bright flashing colored light at the house. Jim fell to his knees in disbelief as he stared at Autum and Suzy. He could see Autum with every flash. The thunder echoed in his head, and made his body shake with each flash.Then Jim looked at the porch and saw the witch, as the ball exploded surrounding the Witch with flashes of light, and millions of tiny flickering stars. A chair flew off the porch, and burst into flames, as it landed on the hose. Steve ran and kicked the chair. It flipped off the hose, and Steve raised about three feet in the air. Then he flew backwards landing on his butt. The Lightning stopped, and the clouds started to part.
Jim got up and ran to Suzy as he exclaimed, “Damn Suzy the witch tried to kill you. I saw Autum protecting you.”Suzy stuttered, “I, I know. I saw her standing next to me the whole time.”
Steve walked over, “Hay did you see the witch on the porch?”
Jim nodded and Suzy replied, “Oh ya I saw her. Boy did I see her.”
Steve disclosed, “I’m shaking a little. That was the most intense thing I’ve ever done. Too bad no one will ever believe me that it happened.”
Just then they all turned and looked. Bruce was coming down the driveway with the rock salt.
Jim announced, “Time to start phase two. Everyone act normal.”
Steve mumbled, “Like that’s going to happen.”
They all gathered around the truck as Bruce climbed down from the cab. Jim insisted that Bruce see the new slab for his shop. As they walked around the slab and talked Steve blurted, “A lightning bolt hit right in front of me, and blew me back ten feet.”
Bruce exclaimed, “I saw the thunderstorm pass over just before I pulled in. Really Steve are you sure?”
Pointing Steve insisted, “See that burning chair over there. I was standing right next to it.”
Bruce questioned, “You pulling my leg Steve?
Jim divulged, “Well I saw a flash and looked up. Steve was flying backwards and the chair was on fire. I sure didn’t set it on fire.”
Bruce thought, “Damn bad things do happing here.” Then he announced, “I need to get going.”
Jim went over and got the tractor as Bruce turned around the truck. No sooner than Jim picked up the pallet Bruce pulled the truck forward, and sped down the driveway. They all just stared as Bruce drove out of sight.
Jim drove around the house and Steve unloaded two bags about every ten feet. Then Jim parked the tractor, and started pouring out the salt. Steve worked on the bags going one way, and Jim worked on the others going the other way. Suzy was picking up the empty bags when it happened.
Edna called out, “I call upon the Ancient powers, to mask us now and in future hours. Hide us well and thoroughly. Like a chameleon I now change to Autum.”Jim watched the rock salt pour to the ground from the bag, as he heard, “Jim help me… Help me Jim…”
Looking up he saw Autum was trapped on the other side of the hose. His mind raced, how could this happen? I saw you with Suzy. Drawn like a magnet to metal Jim dropped the bag, and headed for Autum. “I’ll get you out,” Jim assured.
Seeing Jim step over the hose Suzy yelled, “Jim No!”
She ran to Jim and grabbed his hand yelling, “It’s not Autum Jim she’s out here!”
Giving Jim a jerk they both flew backwards away from the hose, as the Witch let out a loud laugh.
Suzy whispered, “Don’t be tricked Jim. The witch is a deceiver and can put thoughts in your mind.”
Edna called out, “I call on the Serpent. Mingle with the living, and bend them to your way.”
Steve poured out his last bag and headed to the porta-potty. Opening the door he let out a yell, and jumped backwards. Falling to the ground in the process he crawled on his hands and knees.
Suzy called out, “What is it Steve?”
Making it to his feet he exclaimed, “Its Snakes! The out-house is full of Snakes! There are thousands of them in there.”
Suzy went to the porta-potty and opened the door. Looking inside she exclaimed, “Nothing in here but the seat and a roll of TP.”
Steve argued, “I swear it was full of hissing Snakes!”
Suzy nodded, “The witch! She is doing all she can to deceive us.
With the rock salt ring done they gathered by the tractor. Jim looked to Steve and questioned, “You sure you want to keep working here? I’ll understand if you don’t want to come back.”
Steve replied, “Look Jim this is the best job I’ve ever had. I have a kickback boss that’s letting me run the show. Heck it’s like I’m the boss. The pay’s good, I don’t have anyone riding my ass, and I got a hell of a benefit package.”
Jim questioned, “Benefit package? What benefit package?”
Suzy spoke up, “Oh yah I gave Steve a ten percent crop share for when we’re gone. You know for when you finish the truck, and we go on vacation. Someone has to watch over the place well we’re gone.”
Jim just shrugged his shoulders and explained, “I thought now would be a good time to pull the motor out of the truck. I have the forks on the tractor and I can use them to pull the motor. I think Steve and I can do it by the end of the day, and have it loaded on the truck.”
Suzy barked at Jim, “Jim you have to do it all.”
Jim smiled, “I’m not building anything. I’m tearing it apart.”
Suzy laughed, “Oh yah. We got this. Go ahead Jim.”
Suzy watched as Jim and Steve pulled the motor and put it on the truck.
The next morning Jim awoke to the smell of bacon cooking. Putting on his pants he staggered into the kitchen to find Suzy sitting at the table eating. Like every morning three pancakes were sitting on Jim’s plate with bacon. Taking a seat Jim questioned, “You in a hurry or something this morning?”
Suzy replied, “No, you’re just late getting up.”
Jim mumbled, “I know. I just hurt this morning. I haven’t done a day’s work like that in a while, and it took its toll on me.”
Suzy questioned, “You dropping off the Motor today?”
Jim responded, “I called Gene yesterday and told him I would try to get it in today.”
Suzy responded, “Good, I want to talk to Gene about something.”
Jim smiled and questioned, “You hot on him or something?”
Suzy smiled, “Maybe, after all his dad dose own a high-end Machine Shop worth millions. He’s smart, good looking, and nice. I really just want to talk to him about the truck.”
Jim insisted, “Me to.”
After eating they headed to Lambert Performance & Machine. In the office Gene told Jim to pull around to the first rollup door and back in. Pulling around the side of the building Jim lined up the truck with the door and started backing it up. The door opened and there stood Gene guiding him in. Gene waved for Jim to stop, so Jim set the break and turned off the truck.
As Jim walked back Gene got up on the truck and exclaimed, “Oh good it still has the lifting hooks on it. Grabbing the chains hanging from the overhead crane Gene hooked them to the motor, as Jim undid the come-along holding the motor down. Climbing off the truck Gene grabbed the remote for the crane. Pushing a button the motor lifted off the truck.
Gene looked at Jim and commented, “You’ll be able to unload it with one of these when you get it back.”
Then Gene moved the motor across the shop to the teardown bench. Setting the motor on the bench Gene announced, “Sweet, you’re going to love yours Jim. Let’s walk to the office.”
They walked through the shop to the office where Suzy was waiting at the counter.
Jim stood next to Suzy and Gene went behind the counter. Jim questioned, “Could you recommend a place to have the brake drums turned Gene. The brake shoes were frozen to the drums, and I had to use a sledgehammer to get them off. ”
Gene replied. “Just bring them in and I’ll send them out for you.”
Suzy questioned, “How much Gene?”
Gene rolled his eyes, “I have no idea what this would cost. I need to find out what we can get and what we need to make. If I was to guess I would say ten grand, but don’t hold me to that. It’s just a guess.”
Suzy questioned, “How about tools Gene? When taking out the motor Jim was bitching the whole time. He wished he had this and that. He was cussing because he didn’t have an impact. Whatever that is?”
Gene and Jim laughed. Then Gene replied, “A friend of my dad’s was just in the other day. Ray and my dad have been doing business for thirty years. Ray owns a small auto shop and is retiring. He was telling my dad he would sale all his tools for ten thousand. I would say it was a good deal for what he has.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Jim questioned, “What does he have?”
Gene assured, “He’s got just about everything automotive. He’s got Ratchets, Sockets, Extensions, Adapters, Breaker Bars, Torque Wrenches, Screwdriver Sets, Wrench Sets, Plier Sets, Chisel & File Sets, the list just goes on. There is over ten thousand pieces. He also has air tools. He has air Ratchets, air Impacts, air chisels, grinders, and more. Everything has been well taken care of, and is like new. I would guess it would cost twice that to get it new.”
Suzy looked at Jim and commented, “Well Jim? What do you think?”
Jim replied, “If it has everything he said it has, and is for automotive. I would say it’s just what we need.”
Suzy slipped the messenger bag from her shoulder and set it on the counter. Looking at Gene Suzy informed, “I’m going to wright a check for ten thousand on the motor. Then if you can get a hold of Ray and setup a time for us to meet that would be great.”
Gene made out a receipt, and Suzy slid him the check.
Dave was at Tim’s watching him pound iron. Shoving the hot peace of iron in the fire Tim dumped another bag of briquettes on the fire. Looking up at Dave Tim question, “What brings you by Dave?”
Dave replied, “It’s the plans for the wagon. Have you seen how the wheel connects to the axle?”
Tim replied, “I’ve looked them over and saw that. Why don’t we just put some bearings on it and be done with it. They would last forever and no greasing.”
Dave snapped back, “Oh hell no! I have a reputation, and I’m not going to throw that away on this. She said it had to be made to the time, and that’s what I’m giving her. She’s rich and if I need more money I just ask. It’s in the agreement and she understands that.”
Tim pulled the white hot peace of iron from the fire with tongs. He laid it over the anvil and started pounding.
Dave question, “What are you making Tim?”
Tim responded, “It’s that box for that same lady. This is what you have to do when you have to make your own angle-iron.”
Suzy’s list kept growing and she kept having things made. Then she would buy what she could at on online auctions. Jim’s shop went up, the field got planted, and Steve was helping take apart the truck. Jim had got his Peacemaker and spent an hour a day practicing his quick draw, and shooting can’s.
Four weeks had passed, it was late at night, and Jim was lying in bed. Suzy was sitting in grandpa’s chair having some time with her thoughts. Then out of the blue Jim questioned, “Suzy how come you’re still driving that old Neon? You could be driving any new car your hart desires.”
Suzy questioned, “You hinting you want a new truck Jim?”
Jim replied, “No, I love that old truck. I know every squeak, knock, and rattle it has. I’m a part of that truck when I drive it.”
Suzy whispered, “I thought about a Mercedes or a Lamborghini Huracán. I even looked at a Ferrari Testarossa online, but what I really wanted was a Truck. Now go to sleep Jim so you can build it for me.”
Suzy’s phone lightly lit the room as Jim started to drift off. Then Suzy yelled, “Yes”
Snapped awake Jim questioned, “What now?”
Suzy replied, “I just won an auction for an 1850 Chamber Pot.”
Jim Joked, “For making Pee soup?”
Suzy mumbled, “Go to sleep silly guy.”
The next morning at breakfast Jim questioned, “Are you doing alright?”
Suzy questioned, “Why do you ask?”
Jim went on, “Well you haven’t been out to the farm for weeks. You get up and cook me breakfast every day. I go to work in the truck, and you do who knows what all day. I get home and you have dinner waiting for me. You sit in the chair and talk me to sleep. It’s like I’m living with Autum.”
Suzy spoke softly, “I know Jim. Autum told me to do it this way. She’s with me all the time. She tells me you don’t talk to her much anymore. As for what I do all day. Well three days a week I spend half a day with the horse trainer learning about horses. I spend a lot of time looking for things on line, and bidding on auctions. I go visit with Oliver, and I check over the books. By the way I saw you wrote a check for $300 to Western Gun Works, and $500 to Dan Williams. What was that for?”
Jim stuttered, “Bullets, I’ve been practicing shooting my gun behind the barn every day.”
Suzy shook her head, “Well let me do that next time. That account is just for the farm and paying Steve. When you spend out of that account I have to pay your Tax on that money. I already paid the Tax on this money when I inherited it. I don’t want to just give the government money.”
Then taking Jim’s hand across the table she looked deep into his eyes and said, “If you want some pocket money just let me know. I won’t even question what it’s for. When I said I’ll do anything for you I meant it. Now finish your pancake and go work on my truck.”
Shoving a bite of pancake in his mouth Jim thought, “Our Truck.”
Then Suzy added, “Oh yah. Dan at B&B Construction called yesterday. He said they were putting in your overhead crane today, and the Electrician would be there in the afternoon.”
After Jim left Suzy got a call, “Hello.”
“Hi this is Dave, is this Suzy?”
Suzy replied, “Go ahead Dave what do you need?”
Dave continued, “We need to have a cover made for the wagon. They made them out of hemp back then. The only ones I could find were made out of canvas. You told me it had to be true to the time, so I’m kind of not sure as what to do here.”
Suzy replied, “I’m glad you called Dave. Yes it has to all be true to what would be made in that time period. I need to have a mattress, so I’ll see if I can get the cover made at the same time.”
Dave continued, “That would be great. The bed had tightly strung ropes that had to be tightened regularly that supported the mattress, but by the mid-1800s, wooden slats were used. It wasn’t until the 1860s that box springs were used. The one at the Boardinghouse has ropes and wooden slats with the springs on top of that. I found a set of metal bed springs for that time period. It’s in Ohio and he wants $500 for it. I have no idea what it will cost to have something like that shipped. Oh, and he said that they squeak.”
Suzy laughed, “I don’t know if that is a good thing or not.”
Dave replied, “I think they all were that way.”
Suzy insisted, “Just get it Dave. How is the bed coming along?”
Dave exclaimed, “It’s done except for the springs and mattress. It has a hand rubbed finish, and I think I’m going to put on another coat. Other than that it’s ready to go.”
Suzy assured, “I’ll have the cover for the wagon delivered to the shop. If there is nothing else I’ll stop by tomorrow to see the bed.”
Dave ended with, “That’s fine see you tomorrow, and I’ll send you a picture I took a few weeks ago.
Suzy cleaned up the kitchen, and went to see Oliver. In the coin shop Oliver saw Suzy at the counter. “Good morning little lady how are we today?
I need to find someone to do some upholstery.
Oliver recommended, “I’d try Grant over at Perfect Stitch on 33st. he dose good custom work.”
Suzy smiled, “I knew you’d know Oliver.”
Oliver chuckled, “Your stuff is starting to take up a lot of room in the safe. I was thinking I should charge you rent for keeping it in there.”
Suzy laughed, “You tricky old man. You told me you’d keep it in there for me.”
Oliver replied, “I told you to get a metal box to put it in to.”
Suzy lit up and pulled out her phone, “Here look at this. It’s the box I had made.”
Oliver exclaimed, “Wow! You put your money in that and you won’t be able to pick it up. It is a nice looking box. Custom made?
Suzy replied, “Yep, had a blacksmith make it for me.”
Oliver confessed, “You did good little lady.”
Just then a customer came in. Suzy turned an announced, “Give me a call if you need anything Oliver.”
Suzy drove to Perfect Stitch and met with Grant. She told him what she needed.
Grant explained, “Mattresses in the 1870’s were made from cornhusks, straw or other lumpy materials that were stuffed into a cloth bag. Some were Cotton-stuffed or a mix. If you want me to make a cover for a mattress it won’t look right. I would have to stuff some batting and muslin around the sides. Then it wouldn’t look squared off on the edges. You’ll have to bring in a mattress for me to cover.
Now the wagon cover is another story. I’ll have to order the hemp for the cover. That might take a week to get here and two or three days to put it together. I just need to know the measurements for the cover.”
Suzy instructed, “I’ll have Dave give you that information. You can work with him for both the mattress and cover. I’ll stop and buy a mattress today and have them deliver it here.
Suzy left a deposit then went to where she got Jim’s bed. She picked out a mattress, and had it delivered to Perfect Stitch Upholstery.
At the shop Jim was talking with Dan Williams. Dan explained, “I did the best I could, but the records are sealed. All I know was she was adopted at birth and no Hanson blood is pumping through her veins. The only relation between you and her is only the Hanson name. Sorry I couldn’t find more.”
Jim asked, “Do I owe you any money?”
Dan replied, “No the $500 covers it.”
She thought about Jim and wanted to go by the shop, but that would enrage the Witch. Like every other day she just stayed away and went home. Then she spent some time looking for a quilt for the bed. Trying to find a hundred year old quilt for the bed was more of a challenge that she imagined. Soon it was 9 PM and no call from Jim. Worried she gave in and called. “Hay Jim just starting to worry if you were OK.”
Jim replied, “Just finished prepping the frame for painting, and lost tract of the time. I’m cleaning up now. I’ll be on my way in about five.”
Suzy suggested, “I can start dinner if you want? I was waiting for you.”
Jim assured, “I’ll be home in about a half hour.”
Suzy ended with, “See you then.”
Jim came in the door and went right to Suzy. All excited he announced, “Look at this it’s the overhead crane. They put it in today and it works great. Thank you so much Suzy. This is going to make things go so much faster.
Here look at this. I took a picture of the truck frame. I know it don’t look like much, but it’s just put it back together from here. Oh and a little paint.
That night Suzy was sitting in grandpa’s chair talking Jim to sleep like every night. “I’ve come up with a back story for when we get there. We’ll say we’re from Waco Texas and sold our cattle ranch. Then we went to Boise Idaho to settle my aunt’s estate. If they ask, her name is Eva Hanson. I thought we could be husband and wife, and go by James and Suzan white. That way no one would relate us to our great great grandfather.”
I’ve been buying more stuff online. I got you a Straight Razor with a strap for sharping, a Brush, and Soap. I’m looking for a cup for you to put the soap in. Tomorrow I’m going to look at the bed I’m having made for us. I’m still looking for a quilt from that time.”
Looking over Suzy saw Jim was fast asleep. She whispered, “You sleep Jim, and have dreams of love. Remember what makes you who you are, and why you do what you do. Spend some time with Autum and find your path.”
Reclining in grandpa’s chair Suzy softly whispered, “Thanks for protecting me Autum. I’ll go to the farm tomorrow for Jim. I know he needs me there, but it angers the Witch so much. I just don’t want to put all that strain on you.”
Then Suzy slipped off to sleep, as Jim dreamed of Autum. He dreamed he was plowing the field with Autum sitting on his leg. Her arms were wrapped around him and she was whispering in his ear. “I can’t ride out here with you every day. I’ll never get anything done.”
Then Jim dreamed about the day he got the best stereo and headphones he could find. Jim thought, New tractor, killer stereo, and a wife that loves me more than I ever could have imagined. I have the best life ever.
Then he dreamed of the day the State Trooper knocked at the door. “I’m sorry to tell you Autum Hanson has been involved in a fatal accident,”
Jim could hear the Witch laughing in his dream, as he sat straight up in bed and yelled, “NO!”
With bacon sizzling in the pan Suzy ran to Jim’s side. Sitting on the edge of the bed Suzy rubbed Jim’s back, “It’s just a dream Jim. I’m right here, and I got you.”
Jim stuttered, “The Witch!”
Suzy spoke softly, “I know Jim we’re going to fix that. We’re working on it. You and me Jim we got this. Get dressed I’m starting your pancakes”
Then she slipped away and went back to the kitchen. After breakfast Jim went to the farm, and Suzy cleaned the kitchen. Then she went to check the things she was bidding on. Looking at the patchwork quilt she saw Linda761 had upped her bid. Suzy threw another $100 at the quilt. Then she left to see Dave.
Walking in the door to his shop she saw the bed. Filled with excitement Suzy exclaimed, “Oh my god Dave it’s gorgeous!”
She ran over and gave Dave a big hug, as she jumped up and down. Stepping back Suzy bubbled, “It looks just like the one at Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse.”
Gene assured, “He’s got just about everything automotive. He’s got Ratchets, Sockets, Extensions, Adapters, Breaker Bars, Torque Wrenches, Screwdriver Sets, Wrench Sets, Plier Sets, Chisel & File Sets, the list just goes on. There is over ten thousand pieces. He also has air tools. He has air Ratchets, air Impacts, air chisels, grinders, and more. Everything has been well taken care of, and is like new. I would guess it would cost twice that to get it new.”
Suzy looked at Jim and commented, “Well Jim? What do you think?”
Jim replied, “If it has everything he said it has, and is for automotive. I would say it’s just what we need.”
Suzy slipped the messenger bag from her shoulder and set it on the counter. Looking at Gene Suzy informed, “I’m going to wright a check for ten thousand on the motor. Then if you can get a hold of Ray and setup a time for us to meet that would be great.”
Gene made out a receipt, and Suzy slid him the check.
Dave was at Tim’s watching him pound iron. Shoving the hot peace of iron in the fire Tim dumped another bag of briquettes on the fire. Looking up at Dave Tim question, “What brings you by Dave?”
Dave replied, “It’s the plans for the wagon. Have you seen how the wheel connects to the axle?”
Tim replied, “I’ve looked them over and saw that. Why don’t we just put some bearings on it and be done with it. They would last forever and no greasing.”
Dave snapped back, “Oh hell no! I have a reputation, and I’m not going to throw that away on this. She said it had to be made to the time, and that’s what I’m giving her. She’s rich and if I need more money I just ask. It’s in the agreement and she understands that.”Tim pulled the white hot peace of iron from the fire with tongs. He laid it over the anvil and started pounding.
Dave question, “What are you making Tim?”
Tim responded, “It’s that box for that same lady. This is what you have to do when you have to make your own angle-iron.”
Suzy’s list kept growing and she kept having things made. Then she would buy what she could at on online auctions. Jim’s shop went up, the field got planted, and Steve was helping take apart the truck. Jim had got his Peacemaker and spent an hour a day practicing his quick draw, and shooting can’s.
Four weeks had passed, it was late at night, and Jim was lying in bed. Suzy was sitting in grandpa’s chair having some time with her thoughts. Then out of the blue Jim questioned, “Suzy how come you’re still driving that old Neon? You could be driving any new car your hart desires.”
Suzy questioned, “You hinting you want a new truck Jim?”
Jim replied, “No, I love that old truck. I know every squeak, knock, and rattle it has. I’m a part of that truck when I drive it.”
Suzy whispered, “I thought about a Mercedes or a Lamborghini Huracán. I even looked at a Ferrari Testarossa online, but what I really wanted was a Truck. Now go to sleep Jim so you can build it for me.”
Suzy’s phone lightly lit the room as Jim started to drift off. Then Suzy yelled, “Yes”
Snapped awake Jim questioned, “What now?”
Suzy replied, “I just won an auction for an 1850 Chamber Pot.”Jim Joked, “For making Pee soup?”
Suzy mumbled, “Go to sleep silly guy.”
The next morning at breakfast Jim questioned, “Are you doing alright?”
Suzy questioned, “Why do you ask?”
Jim went on, “Well you haven’t been out to the farm for weeks. You get up and cook me breakfast every day. I go to work in the truck, and you do who knows what all day. I get home and you have dinner waiting for me. You sit in the chair and talk me to sleep. It’s like I’m living with Autum.”
Suzy spoke softly, “I know Jim. Autum told me to do it this way. She’s with me all the time. She tells me you don’t talk to her much anymore. As for what I do all day. Well three days a week I spend half a day with the horse trainer learning about horses. I spend a lot of time looking for things on line, and bidding on auctions. I go visit with Oliver, and I check over the books. By the way I saw you wrote a check for $300 to Western Gun Works, and $500 to Dan Williams. What was that for?”
Jim stuttered, “Bullets, I’ve been practicing shooting my gun behind the barn every day.”
Suzy shook her head, “Well let me do that next time. That account is just for the farm and paying Steve. When you spend out of that account I have to pay your Tax on that money. I already paid the Tax on this money when I inherited it. I don’t want to just give the government money.”
Then taking Jim’s hand across the table she looked deep into his eyes and said, “If you want some pocket money just let me know. I won’t even question what it’s for. When I said I’ll do anything for you I meant it. Now finish your pancake and go work on my truck.”
Shoving a bite of pancake in his mouth Jim thought, “Our Truck.”
Then Suzy added, “Oh yah. Dan at B&B Construction called yesterday. He said they were putting in your overhead crane today, and the Electrician would be there in the afternoon.”
After Jim left Suzy got a call, “Hello.”
“Hi this is Dave, is this Suzy?”
Suzy replied, “Go ahead Dave what do you need?”
Dave continued, “We need to have a cover made for the wagon. They made them out of hemp back then. The only ones I could find were made out of canvas. You told me it had to be true to the time, so I’m kind of not sure as what to do here.”
Suzy replied, “I’m glad you called Dave. Yes it has to all be true to what would be made in that time period. I need to have a mattress, so I’ll see if I can get the cover made at the same time.”
Dave continued, “That would be great. The bed had tightly strung ropes that had to be tightened regularly that supported the mattress, but by the mid-1800s, wooden slats were used. It wasn’t until the 1860s that box springs were used. The one at the Boardinghouse has ropes and wooden slats with the springs on top of that. I found a set of metal bed springs for that time period. It’s in Ohio and he wants $500 for it. I have no idea what it will cost to have something like that shipped. Oh, and he said that they squeak.”
Suzy laughed, “I don’t know if that is a good thing or not.”
Dave replied, “I think they all were that way.”
Suzy insisted, “Just get it Dave. How is the bed coming along?”
Dave exclaimed, “It’s done except for the springs and mattress. It has a hand rubbed finish, and I think I’m going to put on another coat. Other than that it’s ready to go.”Suzy assured, “I’ll have the cover for the wagon delivered to the shop. If there is nothing else I’ll stop by tomorrow to see the bed.”
Dave ended with, “That’s fine see you tomorrow, and I’ll send you a picture I took a few weeks ago.
Suzy cleaned up the kitchen, and went to see Oliver. In the coin shop Oliver saw Suzy at the counter. “Good morning little lady how are we today?
I need to find someone to do some upholstery.
Oliver recommended, “I’d try Grant over at Perfect Stitch on 33st. he dose good custom work.”
Suzy smiled, “I knew you’d know Oliver.”
Oliver chuckled, “Your stuff is starting to take up a lot of room in the safe. I was thinking I should charge you rent for keeping it in there.”
Suzy laughed, “You tricky old man. You told me you’d keep it in there for me.”
Oliver replied, “I told you to get a metal box to put it in to.”
Suzy lit up and pulled out her phone, “Here look at this. It’s the box I had made.”
Oliver exclaimed, “Wow! You put your money in that and you won’t be able to pick it up. It is a nice looking box. Custom made?Suzy replied, “Yep, had a blacksmith make it for me.”
Oliver confessed, “You did good little lady.”
Just then a customer came in. Suzy turned an announced, “Give me a call if you need anything Oliver.”
Suzy drove to Perfect Stitch and met with Grant. She told him what she needed.
Grant explained, “Mattresses in the 1870’s were made from cornhusks, straw or other lumpy materials that were stuffed into a cloth bag. Some were Cotton-stuffed or a mix. If you want me to make a cover for a mattress it won’t look right. I would have to stuff some batting and muslin around the sides. Then it wouldn’t look squared off on the edges. You’ll have to bring in a mattress for me to cover.
Now the wagon cover is another story. I’ll have to order the hemp for the cover. That might take a week to get here and two or three days to put it together. I just need to know the measurements for the cover.”
Suzy instructed, “I’ll have Dave give you that information. You can work with him for both the mattress and cover. I’ll stop and buy a mattress today and have them deliver it here.
Suzy left a deposit then went to where she got Jim’s bed. She picked out a mattress, and had it delivered to Perfect Stitch Upholstery.
At the shop Jim was talking with Dan Williams. Dan explained, “I did the best I could, but the records are sealed. All I know was she was adopted at birth and no Hanson blood is pumping through her veins. The only relation between you and her is only the Hanson name. Sorry I couldn’t find more.”
Jim asked, “Do I owe you any money?”
Dan replied, “No the $500 covers it.”
She thought about Jim and wanted to go by the shop, but that would enrage the Witch. Like every other day she just stayed away and went home. Then she spent some time looking for a quilt for the bed. Trying to find a hundred year old quilt for the bed was more of a challenge that she imagined. Soon it was 9 PM and no call from Jim. Worried she gave in and called. “Hay Jim just starting to worry if you were OK.”
Jim replied, “Just finished prepping the frame for painting, and lost tract of the time. I’m cleaning up now. I’ll be on my way in about five.”
Suzy suggested, “I can start dinner if you want? I was waiting for you.”
Jim assured, “I’ll be home in about a half hour.”
Suzy ended with, “See you then.”
Jim came in the door and went right to Suzy. All excited he announced, “Look at this it’s the overhead crane. They put it in today and it works great. Thank you so much Suzy. This is going to make things go so much faster.
Here look at this. I took a picture of the truck frame. I know it don’t look like much, but it’s just put it back together from here. Oh and a little paint.That night Suzy was sitting in grandpa’s chair talking Jim to sleep like every night. “I’ve come up with a back story for when we get there. We’ll say we’re from Waco Texas and sold our cattle ranch. Then we went to Boise Idaho to settle my aunt’s estate. If they ask, her name is Eva Hanson. I thought we could be husband and wife, and go by James and Suzan white. That way no one would relate us to our great great grandfather.”
I’ve been buying more stuff online. I got you a Straight Razor with a strap for sharping, a Brush, and Soap. I’m looking for a cup for you to put the soap in. Tomorrow I’m going to look at the bed I’m having made for us. I’m still looking for a quilt from that time.”
Looking over Suzy saw Jim was fast asleep. She whispered, “You sleep Jim, and have dreams of love. Remember what makes you who you are, and why you do what you do. Spend some time with Autum and find your path.”
Reclining in grandpa’s chair Suzy softly whispered, “Thanks for protecting me Autum. I’ll go to the farm tomorrow for Jim. I know he needs me there, but it angers the Witch so much. I just don’t want to put all that strain on you.”
Then Suzy slipped off to sleep, as Jim dreamed of Autum. He dreamed he was plowing the field with Autum sitting on his leg. Her arms were wrapped around him and she was whispering in his ear. “I can’t ride out here with you every day. I’ll never get anything done.”
Then Jim dreamed about the day he got the best stereo and headphones he could find. Jim thought, New tractor, killer stereo, and a wife that loves me more than I ever could have imagined. I have the best life ever.
Then he dreamed of the day the State Trooper knocked at the door. “I’m sorry to tell you Autum Hanson has been involved in a fatal accident,”
Jim could hear the Witch laughing in his dream, as he sat straight up in bed and yelled, “NO!”
With bacon sizzling in the pan Suzy ran to Jim’s side. Sitting on the edge of the bed Suzy rubbed Jim’s back, “It’s just a dream Jim. I’m right here, and I got you.”
Jim stuttered, “The Witch!”
Suzy spoke softly, “I know Jim we’re going to fix that. We’re working on it. You and me Jim we got this. Get dressed I’m starting your pancakes”
Then she slipped away and went back to the kitchen. After breakfast Jim went to the farm, and Suzy cleaned the kitchen. Then she went to check the things she was bidding on. Looking at the patchwork quilt she saw Linda761 had upped her bid. Suzy threw another $100 at the quilt. Then she left to see Dave.
Walking in the door to his shop she saw the bed. Filled with excitement Suzy exclaimed, “Oh my god Dave it’s gorgeous!”
She ran over and gave Dave a big hug, as she jumped up and down. Stepping back Suzy bubbled, “It looks just like the one at Miss Tomson’s Boardinghouse.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Calmly Dave replied, “That’s what you commissioned me to do. I wouldn’t accept anything less.”
Suzy insisted, “You do have an eye for detail Dave.”
Dave smiled, “There’s more if you want to step out back.”
She followed Dave back behind the shop, and there it was in all its glory. Suzy’s body tingled all over, as she tried to walk over to it. For some reason her feet wouldn’t move. She just stood there and stared.
Dave snapped Suzy out of her trance as he announced, “It’s OK. You can touch it.”
Suzy walked over and rain her hand over the back wheel, and up the side of the wagon. She looked under it as she walked around checking it out. Looking up at Dave Suzy questioned, “True to the time?”
Dave replied, “You bet, right down to the grease can hanging on the back. All that’s left is the cover, and I’m meeting with Grant over at Perfect Stitch today for that. I’ll put it back inside after you leave. I just thought you might want to take some pictures.”
Suzy retrieved her phone and explained, “I need two chairs like this Civil War Folding Camp Chair. They were common back then and made all kinds of ways. The only thing that needs to be to the time period is the fabric, so I thought you could use the same hemp as the cover for the wagon. You can talk to Grant about that.”
Dave replied. “I got it covered.
After taking some picture’s Suzy was off to the farm to meet Jim. Pulling in she saw Steve working on something. Then she heard gun shots coming from behind the barn. Getting out she walked around the barn to see what was going on. There was Jim shooting at cans. Slipping up behind him she put her arms around him, and whispered in his ear, “So this is how you build the truck”
Jim holstered his gun and explained, “Nope, waiting for paint to dry. I just painted the frame.”
Suzy complained, “If I knew this is what you were doing I would have brought my gun.”
Setting up the can’s Jim insisted, “Use mine.”
Dumping out the empty shells Jim reloaded the gun, and handed it to Suzy. Taking the gun Suzy rapped fired the gun taking out all six cans. Then she blew on the end of the barrel, and slipped it in Jim’s holster. With a smile Suzy exclaimed, “I still got it.”
Surprised Jim questioned, “Where did you learn that?”
Suze smiled, “Grampa. Hay Jim looked at this picture I took today. It’s our wagon.
Jim looked at the picture and exclaimed, “Wow that’s nice! Are you trying to make me go faster on the truck? Oh you might want to look at that pile of stuff in the barn. You’ve been buying so much stuff the USP guy and I are on a first name basis.”
Suzy replied, “I’m just about done buying stuff. I’ll be spending more time getting stuff for the truck.”
Jim went on, “Gene called me today. He told me the motor is ready to put together, and the bill was $10,250.”
Suzy put her hand on Jims shoulder as they walked to the barn saying, “I’ll take care of it. Is there anything else we need?”
Jim replied, “Yah, I need to have the seat reupholster.”
Suzy assured, “I know a guy for that. Just load the frame on the truck, and we’ll stop by there tomorrow. Then we can go to see Gene about the motor.”
Walking in the shop Suzy saw a big pile of boxes next to one wall. Suzy asked, “What are all those boxes over there for?”
Jim replied, “Parts for the truck.”
Suzy joked, “No wonder you know the UPS guy by name.”
Jim just laughed, “You ordered every one of the boxes. I just printed out the page, and it showed up here. Just see how fast all that stuff disappears when the motor goes in. this truck well fly together. Then we’ll be on our way to Montana.”
Suzy insisted, “You mean 1874.”
Jim confessed, “That’s your dream. I’ll build the truck, but I expect nothing more. I don’t see how you can be so sure. I don’t even hear Autum anymore. The Witch hasn’t done a thing since we put in the pump and salt. I just think life is going on.”
Suzy thought, Oh no, he has lost the dream. I think I stayed away too long. I need to fix this.
Suzy argued, “I know that’s not true. My grandpa told me the truck would take me places I never dreamed. Well that is a place I never dreamed. I think you need to start talking to Autum again. Then you’ll get the dream back.”
Just then there was a loud boom! The door to the shop flew open and Steve ran in. Taking a deep breath Steve exclaimed, “The Witch is back! A lightning bolt came from the clear blue sky and started a fire.”
Grabbing a fire extinguisher Steve ran back out the door. Suzy went right behind him. Outside Suzy yelled at the house, “Bring it on bitch! You can’t stop us now!”
Just then Suzy flew back into Jim coming out the door. It knocked them both down. Jim had to roll on his side to get out from under Suzy, and Suzy rolled to her hands and knees. Getting up Suzy yelled, “Is that all you got?”
Then there was a bright flash, and Suzy was blinded. Autum appeared in front of Jim and Suzy saying, “I’m moving you to a safer time. I just need you to know I love what you’re doing. Jim you need to hold Suzy tight. She’ll bring you back to me my love.”
Then Autum faded away and slowly the outline of Steve appeared in front of them. Jim questioned, “Why is it so dark?”
Steve pulled his phone from his pocket and announced, “My phone has 11:00 P.M. on it. I think that flash shot us 12 hours into the future.”
Jim looked at Suzy and questioned, “Did you see her?”
Suzy nodded and replied, “I heard her to. I think you got your answer Jim.”
Jim instructed, “You better get going Steve. Your wife is probably freaking out.”
Steve insisted, “I know she is for sure.”
Jim added, “Just take tomorrow off. I’ll give you a call.
Jim and Suzy loaded the frame on the truck, and locked up the shop and barn. Then they headed home. On the way Suzy moved over next to Jim and laid her head on his shoulder. Then she spoke softly, but loud enough for Jim to hear her over the squeaks, rattles, and growl of the old truck. “Autum saved me again today. I’m so glad you picked a strong woman like that.”
The next day Suzy put on her yellow dress and hung her messenger bag over her shoulder. Then Suzy and Jim headed to see Grant over at Perfect Stitch. They dropped off the seat frame, and headed to see Gene at Lambert Performance & Machine. Gene pulled the folder for the Hercules Engine, and came to the counter. Opening the folder Gene questioned. “You sure you don’t want me to assemble the motor? I could do it for $500 and give you a guarantee that way.”
Suzy insisted, “No, I made Jim promise he’d build the truck himself. That means right down to every nut, bolt, and screw.”
Then Suzy leaned over the counter and offered, “How about making me an offer on what you’d charge to instruct and oversee Jim to do the work.”
A spark lit up in Gene’s eye as he offered, “I’ll do it for $500 if Jim dose the work here, and I get to be there for the startup. I’ll even give you the five year fifty thousand mile guarantee.”
Suzy slipped her messenger bag from her shoulder, as Gene retrieved some papers from his desk. Adding them to the stack in the folder Gene announced, “That well be $10,750”
Looking at the folder Suzy commented, “You already had the assembly and guarantee felled out.”
Gene just smiled as he picked up the phone. They could hear Gene’s voice echo in the shop, “Tom would you bring the pallet with the Hercules Engine parts to the assembly room.”
Suzy slid the check across the counter as she questioned, “Would you give me the keys to the truck Jim? I’m going to go see Oliver. Then to the horse trainer.”
Jim teased, “You sure you can drive that old Beast it’s a stick shift you know.”
Suzy gave Jim a look and demanded, “Please Jim.”
Jim set the keys on the counter and Suzy took then and left.
In the assembly room Gene instructed, “First we will use the swing crane to put the block on an engine stand. Then we’ll put in the cam bearings.”
Walking in the coin shop Oliver commented, “Good morning little lady. You sure look nice today, and I love that yellow dress. What’s up with that big truck? Is your car broke down?”
Suzy smiled, “Nope, the car’s just fine. I’m just using Jim’s truck today.”
Oliver went on, “I had a guy come yesterday with some old bills. I took them over to the computer to estimate their value, and the kid got all freaked out and took off out the door. Normally when that happens I call the cops, but the bills were from the 1860’s and 70’s. I checked the hot sheet, and the Police web page for pawn shops. There was nothing listed. That got me thinking maybe I’ll put them in the safe and see what happens.”
Oliver walked over and opened the safe door. Pulling out an envelope he walked back to the counter. Then set the envelope in front of Suzy and insisted, “Look at this.”
Suzy opened the envelope and peeked inside. Then she exclaimed, “Wow this one has a buffalo on it! Oh this one is cool too.”
Oliver laughed, “Yah just don’t burn your fingers. I’m sure it’s hot as hell, but until I know that for sure I’ll just leave then next to your stuff. I saved the security video just to cover my ass. You know not all money was good back then. The banks were allowed to print their own money, and if the bank failed the money became worthless. This however is printed by the US Mint, so it was good anywhere at any time.”
Suzy looked deep into Oliver’s eyes and questioned, “What would your 15 percent finder’s fee be?”
Taking the envelope Oliver walked back to the safe as he mumbled, “Let me see, there’s $165 in there and I paid nothing. 15 percent of nothing is you owe me a favor little lady.”
Suzy smiled, “I don’t even want to think what that’s going to cost me. I’ve got to go see my horse trainer. I think I’m getting good at handling a horse, and know what to look for when buying one.”
Seeing a car pull up Suzy added, “Looks like you have a customer Oliver.”
Oliver chuckled, “Could be, but you never know what will come through that door. After all you came through it.”
Suzy laughed as the door swung shut.
Suzy met her trainer Rick at the stables. Rick explained, “You’re a star student and it has been a pleasure working with you Suzy, but my time is done. Anything I haven’t taught you will come from experience. You’ll have to give that to yourself, so pick a horse and take a solo ride.”
Suzy replied, “I’ll take Rocket.”
Rick assured, “Oh the high spirited half wild thing. You go for it Girl. I’m sure you’ll do just fine. Well don’t just stand there get him saddled up. This isn’t a luxury hotel. You have to do things yourself around here.”
This was the day Suzy had worried about. To do something anyone could do in the 1800’s. Handling a horse back then was like opening a car door today. Just about anyone could do it.
Rick watched as Suzy rode off with her yellow dress and fire red hair blowing in the wind.
Back at Lambert Performance & Machine Gene questioned, “I noticed your wife signed her name White. Did she keep her maiden name?”
Jim replied, “Suzy’s not my wife. She’s my accountant.”
Gene inquired, “If she’s just your accountant. Why do you let her control every aspect of your life?”
Jim set the oil pan back on the bench and turned around. Taking a deep breath Jim explained, “When I met her I was a quarter million in debt. She paid that off and got me whatever I wanted. I was living off pot pies, and now she cooks me breakfast and dinner every day. She got me the shop, the truck, and even my clothes. Hell if she told me to jump I’d ask how high? She loves me that much as do I love her, but I can’t marry her.”
Gene proclaimed, “Damn if I were you I would marry her in a hot second. What’s wrong with you?”
Jim whispered, “She’s my cousin.”
Gene just stood there looking dumb founded. Then Gene replied, “To bad I’m married.”
Jim’s eyes opened wide, “I don’t see a ring Gene.”
Gene mumbled, “It’s too dangerous to ware around the machinery.”
By the afternoon the Engine was assembled and strapped to a pallet.
Gene question, “When’s your truck coming back?”
Jim replied, “I thought she’d be back by now. Let me call her.”
Jim made the call and told Gene Suzy was ten minutes away. After Suzy arrived Gene loaded the Engine with the forklift, and Jim and Suzy were on their way.
At the farm Jim backed the truck in the shop, and used the crane to unload the Engine. Then they headed home.
Suzy insisted, “You do have an eye for detail Dave.”
Dave smiled, “There’s more if you want to step out back.”
She followed Dave back behind the shop, and there it was in all its glory. Suzy’s body tingled all over, as she tried to walk over to it. For some reason her feet wouldn’t move. She just stood there and stared.Dave snapped Suzy out of her trance as he announced, “It’s OK. You can touch it.”
Suzy walked over and rain her hand over the back wheel, and up the side of the wagon. She looked under it as she walked around checking it out. Looking up at Dave Suzy questioned, “True to the time?”
Dave replied, “You bet, right down to the grease can hanging on the back. All that’s left is the cover, and I’m meeting with Grant over at Perfect Stitch today for that. I’ll put it back inside after you leave. I just thought you might want to take some pictures.”
Suzy retrieved her phone and explained, “I need two chairs like this Civil War Folding Camp Chair. They were common back then and made all kinds of ways. The only thing that needs to be to the time period is the fabric, so I thought you could use the same hemp as the cover for the wagon. You can talk to Grant about that.”Dave replied. “I got it covered.
After taking some picture’s Suzy was off to the farm to meet Jim. Pulling in she saw Steve working on something. Then she heard gun shots coming from behind the barn. Getting out she walked around the barn to see what was going on. There was Jim shooting at cans. Slipping up behind him she put her arms around him, and whispered in his ear, “So this is how you build the truck”
Jim holstered his gun and explained, “Nope, waiting for paint to dry. I just painted the frame.”
Suzy complained, “If I knew this is what you were doing I would have brought my gun.”
Setting up the can’s Jim insisted, “Use mine.”
Dumping out the empty shells Jim reloaded the gun, and handed it to Suzy. Taking the gun Suzy rapped fired the gun taking out all six cans. Then she blew on the end of the barrel, and slipped it in Jim’s holster. With a smile Suzy exclaimed, “I still got it.”
Surprised Jim questioned, “Where did you learn that?”
Suze smiled, “Grampa. Hay Jim looked at this picture I took today. It’s our wagon.
Jim looked at the picture and exclaimed, “Wow that’s nice! Are you trying to make me go faster on the truck? Oh you might want to look at that pile of stuff in the barn. You’ve been buying so much stuff the USP guy and I are on a first name basis.”
Suzy replied, “I’m just about done buying stuff. I’ll be spending more time getting stuff for the truck.”
Jim went on, “Gene called me today. He told me the motor is ready to put together, and the bill was $10,250.”
Suzy put her hand on Jims shoulder as they walked to the barn saying, “I’ll take care of it. Is there anything else we need?”
Jim replied, “Yah, I need to have the seat reupholster.”
Suzy assured, “I know a guy for that. Just load the frame on the truck, and we’ll stop by there tomorrow. Then we can go to see Gene about the motor.”
Walking in the shop Suzy saw a big pile of boxes next to one wall. Suzy asked, “What are all those boxes over there for?”
Jim replied, “Parts for the truck.”
Suzy joked, “No wonder you know the UPS guy by name.”
Jim just laughed, “You ordered every one of the boxes. I just printed out the page, and it showed up here. Just see how fast all that stuff disappears when the motor goes in. this truck well fly together. Then we’ll be on our way to Montana.”
Suzy insisted, “You mean 1874.”
Jim confessed, “That’s your dream. I’ll build the truck, but I expect nothing more. I don’t see how you can be so sure. I don’t even hear Autum anymore. The Witch hasn’t done a thing since we put in the pump and salt. I just think life is going on.”
Suzy thought, Oh no, he has lost the dream. I think I stayed away too long. I need to fix this.
Suzy argued, “I know that’s not true. My grandpa told me the truck would take me places I never dreamed. Well that is a place I never dreamed. I think you need to start talking to Autum again. Then you’ll get the dream back.”
Just then there was a loud boom! The door to the shop flew open and Steve ran in. Taking a deep breath Steve exclaimed, “The Witch is back! A lightning bolt came from the clear blue sky and started a fire.”
Grabbing a fire extinguisher Steve ran back out the door. Suzy went right behind him. Outside Suzy yelled at the house, “Bring it on bitch! You can’t stop us now!”
Just then Suzy flew back into Jim coming out the door. It knocked them both down. Jim had to roll on his side to get out from under Suzy, and Suzy rolled to her hands and knees. Getting up Suzy yelled, “Is that all you got?”
Then there was a bright flash, and Suzy was blinded. Autum appeared in front of Jim and Suzy saying, “I’m moving you to a safer time. I just need you to know I love what you’re doing. Jim you need to hold Suzy tight. She’ll bring you back to me my love.”
Then Autum faded away and slowly the outline of Steve appeared in front of them. Jim questioned, “Why is it so dark?”
Steve pulled his phone from his pocket and announced, “My phone has 11:00 P.M. on it. I think that flash shot us 12 hours into the future.”
Jim looked at Suzy and questioned, “Did you see her?”
Suzy nodded and replied, “I heard her to. I think you got your answer Jim.”
Jim instructed, “You better get going Steve. Your wife is probably freaking out.”
Steve insisted, “I know she is for sure.”
Jim added, “Just take tomorrow off. I’ll give you a call.
Jim and Suzy loaded the frame on the truck, and locked up the shop and barn. Then they headed home. On the way Suzy moved over next to Jim and laid her head on his shoulder. Then she spoke softly, but loud enough for Jim to hear her over the squeaks, rattles, and growl of the old truck. “Autum saved me again today. I’m so glad you picked a strong woman like that.”
The next day Suzy put on her yellow dress and hung her messenger bag over her shoulder. Then Suzy and Jim headed to see Grant over at Perfect Stitch. They dropped off the seat frame, and headed to see Gene at Lambert Performance & Machine. Gene pulled the folder for the Hercules Engine, and came to the counter. Opening the folder Gene questioned. “You sure you don’t want me to assemble the motor? I could do it for $500 and give you a guarantee that way.”
Suzy insisted, “No, I made Jim promise he’d build the truck himself. That means right down to every nut, bolt, and screw.”
Then Suzy leaned over the counter and offered, “How about making me an offer on what you’d charge to instruct and oversee Jim to do the work.”
A spark lit up in Gene’s eye as he offered, “I’ll do it for $500 if Jim dose the work here, and I get to be there for the startup. I’ll even give you the five year fifty thousand mile guarantee.”
Suzy slipped her messenger bag from her shoulder, as Gene retrieved some papers from his desk. Adding them to the stack in the folder Gene announced, “That well be $10,750”
Looking at the folder Suzy commented, “You already had the assembly and guarantee felled out.”
Gene just smiled as he picked up the phone. They could hear Gene’s voice echo in the shop, “Tom would you bring the pallet with the Hercules Engine parts to the assembly room.”
Suzy slid the check across the counter as she questioned, “Would you give me the keys to the truck Jim? I’m going to go see Oliver. Then to the horse trainer.”Jim teased, “You sure you can drive that old Beast it’s a stick shift you know.”
Suzy gave Jim a look and demanded, “Please Jim.”
Jim set the keys on the counter and Suzy took then and left.
In the assembly room Gene instructed, “First we will use the swing crane to put the block on an engine stand. Then we’ll put in the cam bearings.”
Walking in the coin shop Oliver commented, “Good morning little lady. You sure look nice today, and I love that yellow dress. What’s up with that big truck? Is your car broke down?”Suzy smiled, “Nope, the car’s just fine. I’m just using Jim’s truck today.”
Oliver went on, “I had a guy come yesterday with some old bills. I took them over to the computer to estimate their value, and the kid got all freaked out and took off out the door. Normally when that happens I call the cops, but the bills were from the 1860’s and 70’s. I checked the hot sheet, and the Police web page for pawn shops. There was nothing listed. That got me thinking maybe I’ll put them in the safe and see what happens.”
Oliver walked over and opened the safe door. Pulling out an envelope he walked back to the counter. Then set the envelope in front of Suzy and insisted, “Look at this.”
Suzy opened the envelope and peeked inside. Then she exclaimed, “Wow this one has a buffalo on it! Oh this one is cool too.”Oliver laughed, “Yah just don’t burn your fingers. I’m sure it’s hot as hell, but until I know that for sure I’ll just leave then next to your stuff. I saved the security video just to cover my ass. You know not all money was good back then. The banks were allowed to print their own money, and if the bank failed the money became worthless. This however is printed by the US Mint, so it was good anywhere at any time.”
Suzy looked deep into Oliver’s eyes and questioned, “What would your 15 percent finder’s fee be?”
Taking the envelope Oliver walked back to the safe as he mumbled, “Let me see, there’s $165 in there and I paid nothing. 15 percent of nothing is you owe me a favor little lady.”
Suzy smiled, “I don’t even want to think what that’s going to cost me. I’ve got to go see my horse trainer. I think I’m getting good at handling a horse, and know what to look for when buying one.”
Seeing a car pull up Suzy added, “Looks like you have a customer Oliver.”
Oliver chuckled, “Could be, but you never know what will come through that door. After all you came through it.”
Suzy laughed as the door swung shut.
Suzy met her trainer Rick at the stables. Rick explained, “You’re a star student and it has been a pleasure working with you Suzy, but my time is done. Anything I haven’t taught you will come from experience. You’ll have to give that to yourself, so pick a horse and take a solo ride.”
Suzy replied, “I’ll take Rocket.”
Rick assured, “Oh the high spirited half wild thing. You go for it Girl. I’m sure you’ll do just fine. Well don’t just stand there get him saddled up. This isn’t a luxury hotel. You have to do things yourself around here.”
This was the day Suzy had worried about. To do something anyone could do in the 1800’s. Handling a horse back then was like opening a car door today. Just about anyone could do it.
Rick watched as Suzy rode off with her yellow dress and fire red hair blowing in the wind.
Back at Lambert Performance & Machine Gene questioned, “I noticed your wife signed her name White. Did she keep her maiden name?”
Jim replied, “Suzy’s not my wife. She’s my accountant.”
Gene inquired, “If she’s just your accountant. Why do you let her control every aspect of your life?”
Jim set the oil pan back on the bench and turned around. Taking a deep breath Jim explained, “When I met her I was a quarter million in debt. She paid that off and got me whatever I wanted. I was living off pot pies, and now she cooks me breakfast and dinner every day. She got me the shop, the truck, and even my clothes. Hell if she told me to jump I’d ask how high? She loves me that much as do I love her, but I can’t marry her.”
Gene proclaimed, “Damn if I were you I would marry her in a hot second. What’s wrong with you?”
Jim whispered, “She’s my cousin.”
Gene just stood there looking dumb founded. Then Gene replied, “To bad I’m married.”Jim’s eyes opened wide, “I don’t see a ring Gene.”
Gene mumbled, “It’s too dangerous to ware around the machinery.”
By the afternoon the Engine was assembled and strapped to a pallet.
Gene question, “When’s your truck coming back?”
Jim replied, “I thought she’d be back by now. Let me call her.”
Jim made the call and told Gene Suzy was ten minutes away. After Suzy arrived Gene loaded the Engine with the forklift, and Jim and Suzy were on their way.
At the farm Jim backed the truck in the shop, and used the crane to unload the Engine. Then they headed home.
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Nine – Truck or Wagon
Suzy was sitting in grandpa’s chair talking to Jim like every night. When Jim informed, “I think I’m going to half to layoff Steve. He has sandblasted about everything there is. It’s just put everything together and paint it. That’s the stuff I have to do myself.”
Suzy insisted, “No way am I letting you do that. We need Steve now more than ever. I need a lot of help getting the stuff I got ready, and I need someone to watch over you. I don’t want you putting all that heavy stuff on with the crane. Unless there is someone there to help you in case something happens. I’ll pay Steve to watch you work, and help me.”
Looking over Suzy saw Jim was fast asleep just like every night. Suzy thought, I hope he’s not working too hard. I better go to the farm with him tomorrow.
The next morning Suzy put on her work clothes, and grabbed her Peace Maker. Riding to the farm with Jim she questioned, “You ready to talk about what Autum had to say?”
Jim replied, “No, but I am ready to talk about what happened. You know we went half a day forward in time.”
Suzy spoke over the roar of the truck, “I know. Does that do anything for you?”
Jim acknowledged, “You bet it does. I now believe that it’s possible to travel through time. What Autum did kicked everything up a notch for me. The motor will be in the truck today.”
With the help of the overhead crane Jim had the motor bolted down by noon. Steve had finished sandblasting the last of the truck parts. Suzy insisted she take them out to lunch. Then after lunch she made Jim shoot his Peace Maker with her. Jim would shoot the can down low to make it fly in the air. Then Suzy would shoot the can as it flew. They enjoyed each other with laughing and trying to out shoot each other. Then Jim insisted it’s time to go back to work.
Steve had cleaned up the shop well Jim and Suzy had their shooting contest. Jim installed the radiator and hooked it up to the motor. Then he stepped back and looked at the frame with the motor in it and thought, Now we’re getting somewhere.
That night when Suzy was sitting in grandpa’s chair talking to Jim. Suzy went over her plan. “You know we’re going to half to pretend we’re man and wife. Share the same room and bed. Otherwise they will never let us share a room. The beds sucked back then, so I had a special bed made for us. I know you like shaving, so I think you should start using that Straight Razor. You’ll have to have that down by the time we go. How much longer do you think it will take for the truck?”
Jim replied. “I’ll paint the cab, gas tank, and running boards tomorrow. Then put them on the next day. Then I have to put in the wiring harness. That will take two or three days. After that its start the truck and put on the hood, fenders, and grille. All that’s left then is the box and canvas cover. I’d say about two or three weeks.”
Suzy exclaimed, “Oh no! I have to get going. I was thinking two months.”
Jim yawned, “I had you buy all new bolts and rubbers for everything. With the crane, air compressor, and fancy tools you got me it goes fast. The air Ratchet and Impact make things just fly together.”
The next morning Jim showed up at the table with bloody toilet paper stuck to his face. Suzy gasped, “What happen?”
Jim joked, “You know the Indians you see in the western movies? Well Chief Straight Razor is in our bathroom. I was lucky to get out with my life.
Suzy snickered, “Sorry Jim, but I got this. They had a barber in town back then, and I got a coffee can of Nickle’s. I think a shave was like 10 or 15¢. I notice you haven’t cut your hair yet, and it’s getting a little long.”
Jim replied, “Things just keep coming up, and I gave up on it. I thought it might fit in for the times. If not I could get it cut then.”
As the days went by Jim got the cab on the truck, and put in the wiring harness.
Then Gene came and helped Jim do the startup on the truck. Hearing the truck roar to life Jim felled with excitement. This was a turning point for Jim. He felt it was all downhill from here. A few days later the front wrap was on, and it was starting to look like a truck again.
Steve and Suzy took Jim's truck and trailer. They went to Dave’s Custom Wood Working. Pulling in they saw Dave waiting for them. Meeting them at the truck Dave informed, “I put the wagon out back in case you wanted to take some pictures. Suzy took one look at the wagon and yelled, “Yes! Yes! Damn Dave that is perfect.”
Suzy took a picture as Steve exclaimed, “Wow Suzy that’s cool. When you told me we were getting a Wagon I thought like a hay wagon. You know like to pull behind the tractor. I never would have thought of something like this.”
After taking a few pictures they loaded the bed in the Wagon, and put the wagon on the trailer. Back at the farm Suzy and Steve unloaded the wagon. Then they started getting the stuff out of the barn.
That night when Suzy was sitting in grandpa’s chair talking to Jim. Suzy went over her problem with the wagon. Jim teased her about buying too much stuff. Then he told Suzy he was ready to put the box on the truck. Then all that would be left was hook up the tail lights, and put the canvas on. Then he’d be done except for the seat. Witch he needed to get from Perfect Stitch.
Suzy sat strait up and yelled, “Oh shit! That’s the big crate in the bottom of the wagon. I’m sorry Jim. The seat is already there. I had Perfect Stitch deliver everything to Dave’s shop. Steve and I picked it up today.”
Jim snickered, “I guess that means your stuff will fit in the Wagon now?”
Suzy acknowledged, “Hell yah! Thanks Jim, but now I don’t know where the quilt, bedding, and fabric are.”
Jim mumbled, “I do. That crate’s in the shop. I thought it was truck parts. That’s until I opened it this morning.”
Suzy questioned, “Why didn’t you say something Jim?”
Jim continued, “You and Steve seemed to be having a bad day, and I just didn’t want to bother you. Then I got busy and forgot. You know kind of out of sight out of mind thing.”
Suzy took a deep breath and leaned back in the chair. Then she went on, “I need to go see Oliver tomorrow, so I won’t ride with you in the morning. I don’t want Steve to touch a thing when I’m not there. I want him to sit and watch when you put the box on. You know just in case something happens. I’m sure everything will be fine, but you know how I worry. Is that OK with you?”
Jim moaned, “Sure.”
The next morning Suzy met Oliver as he was unlocking the door. Stepping through the door Suzy exclaimed, “I’m picking up my money today.”
Oliver made an about face and locked the door as he announced, “This is a private sale, and we don’t need anyone walking in on this.”
Then Oliver took Suzy around behind the counter to his sales desk. Then he went to the safe and spun the dial a few times. Cracking open the door he pulled a paper out and took it to the desk and announced, “This is what we have acquired to date. We have the 2,000 Nickels for $1,500, 30 Silver Dollars for $12,800, 100 Quarters for $30,000, 50 Dimes for $1,000, and 200 Penny’s for $2,200. For a total of $47.500 for a face value of $162 plus my commission of $7,125 which brings the grand total to $54,625. Leaving a balance of $5,375 of the $60,000 you gave me.”
Then he went to the safe and got the coffee can of Nickels. Dropping it on the desk with a thud Oliver exclaimed, “25 pounds of Nickels.”
Then he went to the safe and got a shoe box and set it on the desk. Oliver opened the lid winked and said, “12 pounds of the good stuff, and oh that envelope mist have fallen in there bring your total to $322 face value little lady.”
Suzy threw herself at Oliver wrapping her arms around him. Giving him a big kiss on the cheek Suzy whispered in his ear, “I love you old man.”
Oliver slipped away as he chastised, “OK that’s enough of that stuff little lady. Someone might see us through the window. You should be checking the shoe box. You know to make sure I’m not ripping you off.”
Suzy looked in the box and questioned, “Should I count the Nickels too?”
Oliver pulled open a desk drawer and pulled out a nickel plated 3.57. Zipped down his windbreaker and pushed the gun in a shoulder holster. Then insisted, “Let me walk you out to your car.”
Putting the lid on the shoe box Suzy question, “Can you get the coffee can Oliver?”
Oliver picked up the can and walked to the door. Holding the can under one arm he unlocked the door. Suzy popped open the trunk and put in the shoe box. Oliver set the coffee can next to it. Then he questioned, “You want me to mail you a check for the rest of the money, or will you come in to pick it up?”
Suzy looked Oliver in the eye and said, “Tip, I can’t spend it where I’m going.”
Then she jumped in her car and left Oliver standing in the parking lot. A tear slipped down his cheek as he whispered, “Love you too little lady.”
Arriving at the farm Suzy found Jim had the box on the truck, and he was bolting it down. Looking to Steve she announced, “Let’s go Steve. Let’s get the wagon out of the barn and unload it.”
As they were unloading the Wagon Steve took Suzy’s arm and pulled her to the side of the Wagon and whispered, “Don’t look but there’s a crow watching us. I noticed it yesterday, but I thought it was just me. It’s watching us I’m sure of it.”
Suzy looked at Steve and insisted, “Let’s go in the shop.”
In the shop with the door closed Suzy called Malinda.
Malinda answered, “This is Malinda.”
Suzy questioned, “You got a minute?”
Malinda replied, “Sure go ahead.”
Suzy explained, “I have a crow watching us. Is this bad?”
Malinda questioned, “You want the good news or the bad news first?”
Suzy took a deep breath, “Give me the bad news.”
Malinda went on, “Well the bad news is it could be the Witch. You see Witches have an extensive knowledge of nature, including animals, so much so that they even managed to discover their magical qualities and used them to their advantage in different ways. As for the crow, the crow’s spirit can fly between the world of the living and that of the dead, probably because of their habit of scavenging dead things. Witches have crows because they see them as a kind of spiritual guide through the world of the dead. Witches generally perform binding spells with the help of birds.
Suzy was sitting in grandpa’s chair talking to Jim like every night. When Jim informed, “I think I’m going to half to layoff Steve. He has sandblasted about everything there is. It’s just put everything together and paint it. That’s the stuff I have to do myself.”
Suzy insisted, “No way am I letting you do that. We need Steve now more than ever. I need a lot of help getting the stuff I got ready, and I need someone to watch over you. I don’t want you putting all that heavy stuff on with the crane. Unless there is someone there to help you in case something happens. I’ll pay Steve to watch you work, and help me.”
Looking over Suzy saw Jim was fast asleep just like every night. Suzy thought, I hope he’s not working too hard. I better go to the farm with him tomorrow.
The next morning Suzy put on her work clothes, and grabbed her Peace Maker. Riding to the farm with Jim she questioned, “You ready to talk about what Autum had to say?”
Jim replied, “No, but I am ready to talk about what happened. You know we went half a day forward in time.”
Suzy spoke over the roar of the truck, “I know. Does that do anything for you?”
Jim acknowledged, “You bet it does. I now believe that it’s possible to travel through time. What Autum did kicked everything up a notch for me. The motor will be in the truck today.”
With the help of the overhead crane Jim had the motor bolted down by noon. Steve had finished sandblasting the last of the truck parts. Suzy insisted she take them out to lunch. Then after lunch she made Jim shoot his Peace Maker with her. Jim would shoot the can down low to make it fly in the air. Then Suzy would shoot the can as it flew. They enjoyed each other with laughing and trying to out shoot each other. Then Jim insisted it’s time to go back to work.
Steve had cleaned up the shop well Jim and Suzy had their shooting contest. Jim installed the radiator and hooked it up to the motor. Then he stepped back and looked at the frame with the motor in it and thought, Now we’re getting somewhere.
That night when Suzy was sitting in grandpa’s chair talking to Jim. Suzy went over her plan. “You know we’re going to half to pretend we’re man and wife. Share the same room and bed. Otherwise they will never let us share a room. The beds sucked back then, so I had a special bed made for us. I know you like shaving, so I think you should start using that Straight Razor. You’ll have to have that down by the time we go. How much longer do you think it will take for the truck?”
Jim replied. “I’ll paint the cab, gas tank, and running boards tomorrow. Then put them on the next day. Then I have to put in the wiring harness. That will take two or three days. After that its start the truck and put on the hood, fenders, and grille. All that’s left then is the box and canvas cover. I’d say about two or three weeks.”
Suzy exclaimed, “Oh no! I have to get going. I was thinking two months.”
Jim yawned, “I had you buy all new bolts and rubbers for everything. With the crane, air compressor, and fancy tools you got me it goes fast. The air Ratchet and Impact make things just fly together.”
The next morning Jim showed up at the table with bloody toilet paper stuck to his face. Suzy gasped, “What happen?”
Jim joked, “You know the Indians you see in the western movies? Well Chief Straight Razor is in our bathroom. I was lucky to get out with my life.
Suzy snickered, “Sorry Jim, but I got this. They had a barber in town back then, and I got a coffee can of Nickle’s. I think a shave was like 10 or 15¢. I notice you haven’t cut your hair yet, and it’s getting a little long.”
Jim replied, “Things just keep coming up, and I gave up on it. I thought it might fit in for the times. If not I could get it cut then.”
As the days went by Jim got the cab on the truck, and put in the wiring harness.
Then Gene came and helped Jim do the startup on the truck. Hearing the truck roar to life Jim felled with excitement. This was a turning point for Jim. He felt it was all downhill from here. A few days later the front wrap was on, and it was starting to look like a truck again.
Steve and Suzy took Jim's truck and trailer. They went to Dave’s Custom Wood Working. Pulling in they saw Dave waiting for them. Meeting them at the truck Dave informed, “I put the wagon out back in case you wanted to take some pictures. Suzy took one look at the wagon and yelled, “Yes! Yes! Damn Dave that is perfect.”
Suzy took a picture as Steve exclaimed, “Wow Suzy that’s cool. When you told me we were getting a Wagon I thought like a hay wagon. You know like to pull behind the tractor. I never would have thought of something like this.”
After taking a few pictures they loaded the bed in the Wagon, and put the wagon on the trailer. Back at the farm Suzy and Steve unloaded the wagon. Then they started getting the stuff out of the barn.
They tried to load all the stuff on the Wagon, but it wouldn’t fit. They unloaded it and loaded it differently, but there steel seemed to be too much stuff. Suzy had Steve push the wagon into the barn and called it a day.That night when Suzy was sitting in grandpa’s chair talking to Jim. Suzy went over her problem with the wagon. Jim teased her about buying too much stuff. Then he told Suzy he was ready to put the box on the truck. Then all that would be left was hook up the tail lights, and put the canvas on. Then he’d be done except for the seat. Witch he needed to get from Perfect Stitch.
Suzy sat strait up and yelled, “Oh shit! That’s the big crate in the bottom of the wagon. I’m sorry Jim. The seat is already there. I had Perfect Stitch deliver everything to Dave’s shop. Steve and I picked it up today.”
Jim snickered, “I guess that means your stuff will fit in the Wagon now?”Suzy acknowledged, “Hell yah! Thanks Jim, but now I don’t know where the quilt, bedding, and fabric are.”
Jim mumbled, “I do. That crate’s in the shop. I thought it was truck parts. That’s until I opened it this morning.”
Suzy questioned, “Why didn’t you say something Jim?”
Jim continued, “You and Steve seemed to be having a bad day, and I just didn’t want to bother you. Then I got busy and forgot. You know kind of out of sight out of mind thing.”
Suzy took a deep breath and leaned back in the chair. Then she went on, “I need to go see Oliver tomorrow, so I won’t ride with you in the morning. I don’t want Steve to touch a thing when I’m not there. I want him to sit and watch when you put the box on. You know just in case something happens. I’m sure everything will be fine, but you know how I worry. Is that OK with you?”
Jim moaned, “Sure.”
The next morning Suzy met Oliver as he was unlocking the door. Stepping through the door Suzy exclaimed, “I’m picking up my money today.”
Oliver made an about face and locked the door as he announced, “This is a private sale, and we don’t need anyone walking in on this.”
Then Oliver took Suzy around behind the counter to his sales desk. Then he went to the safe and spun the dial a few times. Cracking open the door he pulled a paper out and took it to the desk and announced, “This is what we have acquired to date. We have the 2,000 Nickels for $1,500, 30 Silver Dollars for $12,800, 100 Quarters for $30,000, 50 Dimes for $1,000, and 200 Penny’s for $2,200. For a total of $47.500 for a face value of $162 plus my commission of $7,125 which brings the grand total to $54,625. Leaving a balance of $5,375 of the $60,000 you gave me.”
Then he went to the safe and got the coffee can of Nickels. Dropping it on the desk with a thud Oliver exclaimed, “25 pounds of Nickels.”
Then he went to the safe and got a shoe box and set it on the desk. Oliver opened the lid winked and said, “12 pounds of the good stuff, and oh that envelope mist have fallen in there bring your total to $322 face value little lady.”
Suzy threw herself at Oliver wrapping her arms around him. Giving him a big kiss on the cheek Suzy whispered in his ear, “I love you old man.”
Oliver slipped away as he chastised, “OK that’s enough of that stuff little lady. Someone might see us through the window. You should be checking the shoe box. You know to make sure I’m not ripping you off.”
Suzy looked in the box and questioned, “Should I count the Nickels too?”
Oliver pulled open a desk drawer and pulled out a nickel plated 3.57. Zipped down his windbreaker and pushed the gun in a shoulder holster. Then insisted, “Let me walk you out to your car.”
Putting the lid on the shoe box Suzy question, “Can you get the coffee can Oliver?”
Oliver picked up the can and walked to the door. Holding the can under one arm he unlocked the door. Suzy popped open the trunk and put in the shoe box. Oliver set the coffee can next to it. Then he questioned, “You want me to mail you a check for the rest of the money, or will you come in to pick it up?”
Suzy looked Oliver in the eye and said, “Tip, I can’t spend it where I’m going.”
Then she jumped in her car and left Oliver standing in the parking lot. A tear slipped down his cheek as he whispered, “Love you too little lady.”
Arriving at the farm Suzy found Jim had the box on the truck, and he was bolting it down. Looking to Steve she announced, “Let’s go Steve. Let’s get the wagon out of the barn and unload it.”
As they were unloading the Wagon Steve took Suzy’s arm and pulled her to the side of the Wagon and whispered, “Don’t look but there’s a crow watching us. I noticed it yesterday, but I thought it was just me. It’s watching us I’m sure of it.”
Suzy looked at Steve and insisted, “Let’s go in the shop.”
In the shop with the door closed Suzy called Malinda.
Malinda answered, “This is Malinda.”
Suzy questioned, “You got a minute?”
Malinda replied, “Sure go ahead.”
Suzy explained, “I have a crow watching us. Is this bad?”
Malinda questioned, “You want the good news or the bad news first?”
Suzy took a deep breath, “Give me the bad news.”
Malinda went on, “Well the bad news is it could be the Witch. You see Witches have an extensive knowledge of nature, including animals, so much so that they even managed to discover their magical qualities and used them to their advantage in different ways. As for the crow, the crow’s spirit can fly between the world of the living and that of the dead, probably because of their habit of scavenging dead things. Witches have crows because they see them as a kind of spiritual guide through the world of the dead. Witches generally perform binding spells with the help of birds.
Last edited:
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Now the good news is it could be Autum. The black crow can bring a message from a departed loved one; it is a profound confirmation and symbol of "REBIRTH." Loved ones use the crow to tell us they are dwelling in the past, the present, and the future, all at the same time. Their message is beautiful and crystal clear.”
Suzy gasped, “Oh crap! How do I tell witch it is?”
Malinda went on, “You’ll just half to keep one eye on it. If the Crow is bad you’ll know it, but I think it’s a guide sent by Autum. You must be close to trying to go there.”
Suzy replied, “For sure Malinda we’re days away.”
Malinda questioned, “Anything else or are we done here.”
Suzy informed, “Nope that was it.”
Malinda ended with, “Have a safe trip.”
Steve questioned, “Well what did she say?”
Jim rolled out from under the truck and announced, “She said get back to work.”
Suzy replied, “Yep, back to work. That’s what she said alright.”
With that taken care of Suzy and Steve finished unloading the Wagon. Then Suzy had Steve take the crate with the seat in the shop, and they loaded the wagon again. Suzy had Steve measure the load twice and questioned. “You sure it will fit in the back of the truck?”
Steve replied, “I’d bet my pay on it. If we take off the wheels and put them on top it will go.”
Suzy took pictures as they unload it, so they could put it back the same way on the truck. Then she had Steve put the Wagon back in the barn, and stack the stuff in the shop. After that she sent Steve home for the day.
In the shop Jim was sitting in the truck. Suzy climbed up in the passenger side and shut the door. Jim looked at her and sighed, “Done.”
Suzy smiled and explained. “I have a problem. I have over fifty thousand in the trunk of my car. I’m scared to do anything with it. I don’t want to leave it here, and I don’t want to take it home. Heaven forbid I’m not leaving it in the car.”
Jim leaned his head back and whispered, “I thought I would be all excited and drive the truck off into the sunset or something, but it’s nothing like that. It’s more like boy I’m glad that’s done. What about you?”
Suzy insisted, “I can’t get the lid back on the beehive, and the train is going too fast.”
Jim snickered. Then he burst out laughing, “Whatever it is you got it’s bad. Remember you got that box over there you had made. Do you even have a lock for it?”
Suzy assured, “You bet I paid $300 for it. The lock is in the box. Do you want a key?”
Jim insisted, “I promised you this was not for the money. I’m not going back on that.”
Suzy replied, “That don’t fix my problem. It just moves it from the trunk to the box. I need to know what we should do with it.”
Jim popped his door open and looked at Suzy. She opened her door and followed Jim to the car. After opening the trunk Suzy took the top off the shoe box. Picking up the envelope she insisted, “Look in here Jim.”
Thumbing through the bills Jim confessed, “I like the one with the Buffalo on it.”
Jim looked at all the old money in the Shoe box, as Suzy explained, “There is $160 in coin’s here and it cost me over $50,000. Then there is another $160 in paper money that Oliver gave us. It might sound like a lot, but it’s only about a year’s worth of wages in 1874.”
Jim picked up the coffee can, “Damn this is heavy. What is this?”
Suzy disclosed, “It’s your shaving money. It’s all nickels in the coffee can. I think you can get a shave from the barber for 5 or 10 ¢.”
Suzy put the top back on the shoe box, and took it inside followed by Jim with the coffee can. Opening the box she had made she put in the shoe box and removed the lock. Jim insisted, “This can isn’t going to fit in there. You had the box made to small.”
Suzy growled, “Just take off the lid and dump them in Jim.”
Jim dumped the nickels in the box. Then Suzy locked the box, and handed Jim a key as she questioned, “Now what do we do with the box?”
Jim insisted, you grab the handle on that side and I’ll take the one on this side. Then we put it on the floor on the passenger side of the truck. Jim opened the door on the truck and took one handle.
Jim complained, “Oh hell you had to have this thing made out of steel. I should have used the crane,”
Suzy scolded, “Quit your wining Jim. Just be thankful I didn’t have it made the size of a steamer trunk.”
Jim grunted swinging his end to the floor of the truck, and helped Suzy slide the box in. Then Jim exclaimed, “That has got to weigh 100 pounds. I think it’s safe in there if we guard it, so I’ll sleep in the cab of the truck with my gun. You can sleep on your mattress with your quilt, and put your peace maker under your pillow.”
Suzy snapped back, “That won’t work! I can’t talk you to sleep that way. It’s not happening that way. I say we bring the mattress and springs over here next to the truck and we both sleep next to the truck.”
Jim knew once Suzy got something in her head she would never give up, so he gave in and did it her way. After the bed was made up Jim opened the shops little refrigerator and informed, “All I have in here is some burritos and a bottle of champagne. I was saving the champagne for when we were done, and the truck’s not loaded yet.”
Suzy replied. “Well put two of the burritos in the microwave, and get our coffee cups by the coffee pot. Pop the cork on the champagne and will celebrate finishing the truck.”
Jim and Suzy ate and drank champagne. They joked, laughed, started the truck, blew the horn, and revved the engine. Suzy sat on Jim’s lap bouncing up and down moving the steering wheel back and forth yelling, “We did it grandpa the dream is coming true.
The next morning Steve pulled into the farm and saw Jim’s truck. He went to the shop door and tried the handle, and found the door was locked. He pulled the key from his pocket and unlocked the door. Jim’s arm was under Suzy, and she had her head on Jim’s shoulder when they heard the door open.
They both scrambled for the peace makers, as they sat straight up in bed. Steve stepped in the door and threw his hands up in the air dropping the key. Stepping backwards out the door Steve exclaimed, “I’ll give you a minute. I’ll just be out here.”
Jim and Suzy looked at each other and smiled as they flopped back on the mattress. Suzy proclaimed, “Shit! We could have shot Steve.”
Jim moaned, “You know the springs squeak.”
Suzy complained, “Hell Jim we just about killed someone and all you can say is the springs squeak.”
Jim mumbled, “Did you make the coffee yet. You always make the coffee in the morning.”
Suzy got up and started the coffee maker as she explained, “You know the percolator over there with our stuff takes about twenty minutes to make coffee.”
Steve looked up at the crow and waved. The crow took flight and landed at Steve’s feet. Then walked in the shop and flew up on top the truck. Suzy looked up and said, “Well good morning.”
The crow squawked back at Suzy.
Suzy answered, “It’s nice to see you too.”
With his boots on Jim went out to see Steve.
Steve blurted, “You slept in your clothes last night.”
Jim replied, “No I passed out in my clothes last night. We drank a bottle of champagne last night to celebrate finishing the truck. The last thing I remember I was sitting in the truck, and Suzy was driving off into cartoon land.”
Steve snickered, “Oh that’s what’s going on. That explains a lot. You don’t want to know what I was thinking.”
Suzy came out not looking much better than Jim. Her work clothes were all wrinkled and her hair was all messed up as she announced, “Enough coffee has run through so you can steal a cup. Then we can load the wagon and all the stuff on the truck, and I’ll take us out to breakfast in the truck.”
Jim went in and opened up the roll-up door. Then he pulled out the truck and turned it so the back was pointing to the barn. Then he helped Steve pull the wagon from the barn. Jim commented, “The wagon pulls easier than I thought.”
Steve replied, “That’s what I thought when I pushed it in last night. I think it’s the big wheels, and it’s not that heavy compared to a car.”
Looking at the wagon Jim questioned, “I think we’re going to have to take the tongue off.”
Steve replied. “There’s a toolbox built in in the front. It’s where you would put your feet if driving. I found it the day we picked it up.”
Suzy informed, “It’s called the Jockey box.”
Jim pulled out a wrench and exclaimed, “Wow a hand forged wrench. I’ve never seen anything like this.”
Suzy bragged, “The guy I commissioned hammered all the tools out on an anvil. He made a complete set for every nut and bolt on the wagon. He also told me that the head of every bolt is a different size than the nut. That’s so that you don’t need two of the same size wrenches.”
Jim chuckled, “They don’t make things like that anymore. Steve, let’s get two of the planks alongside the barn, and lean them against the bed of the truck. Then we can push the wagon axel up against it until the wheels come off the ground. Take off the wheels and slide the wagon in.”
Steve replied, “Sounds like a plan.”
Then that is what they did. When the axel hit the planks Jim used a two by four as a lever, and slid the wagon up until the wheels were off the ground. Then Jim took off the wheels and Steve took off the tongue. After handing the tongue out to Jim Steve climbed over the wagon, and out of the truck.
Next they pushed the wagon until the backend popped up. Then they took off the back wheels. Now they pushed as hard as they could, but it wasn’t working. Suzy came and help push, but that wasn’t much better. Then the crow landed on the back of the wagon and it slid right in. Once it was in the truck the crow flew back to the tree.
Suzy disclosed, “Did you see that?”
Jim declared, “I don’t care how that happened. I’m just glad it’s in there.”
With a bewildered look Steve questioned, “Did I miss something?”
Suzy said, “No Steve, Jim just can’t believe how strong I am.”
Then they started loading all the stuff on the wagon. Steve climbed up in the back of the truck then in the wagon. Suzy looked at the pictures on her phone, and pointed out what went on the truck. Jim took it to Steve and he stacked it in the wagon. Steve had to get out and help with a few big and heavy things, but soon they were down to the mattress and wagon wheels.
Soon Jim was tying down the canvas flap on the back of the truck. Then he turned to Steve and questioned, “You can follow us to town then have the rest of the day off.”
Suzy came out of the shop with her messenger bag, as Jim put down the rollup door and locked the other door. Pulling a folder from her messenger bag Suzy handed it to Steve and informed, “Everything you need to run the farm is in there. It has the information on the combine I rented for the harvest. You have the agreement with Jack for the semi-truck to put the grain in. There is information on how to get paid at the bank. I want you to ride with Jack to take in the wheat, and keep track of the scales receipts. You’re in charge of the harvest. If you don’t think you can do it tell me now.”
Steve assured, “I can do this. Don’t worry about a thing.”
With that Suzy went over and got up in the truck. Sliding in she looked at Jim and complained, “What the hell Jim you forgot to put in the seatbelts.”
Jim just smiled, “Didn’t have them back then.”
Suzy mumbled, “Great!”
Jim put the truck in gear and after a few jerks. They were rolling down the driveway with the crow following them. Jim put the truck in high range and started down the road. Soon they were humming along at the top speed of 45 mph. Then they were going around Connors corner and down the hill and over the creek. Going into town Jim stopped at the gas station. Suzy got out and put her bank card in the pump, as Jim opened a bottle and poured it into the tank.
Suzy questioned, “What’s that stuff?”
Jim replied, “STA-BIL Storage Fuel Stabilizer it eliminates the need to drain the fuel prior to storage. It keeps fuel fresh for up to two years. It’s for things you only use once in a while.”
Suzy replied, “The pump is ready. Go ahead and fill it up.”
Jim was pumping the gas when Steve walked up and informed, “You know that crazy bird followed you here. It’s on top of the gas sign now.”
Jim looked up and sure enough there it was.
Suzy questioned, “You going to eat with us Steve?
Steve replied, “No, I just think I’ll go home.”
Suzy smiled and waved as Steve turned around and walked away. After getting gas Jim and Suzy went to breakfast followed by the crow. Jim parked in front of the restaurant and the bird landed on top of the truck. At the restaurant Suzy got back on her paranoia kick about the money, so she took out her phone and ordered the food. Jim went in and picked it up, and they ate in the truck. Then they sat there and talked about what to do.
Suzy informed, “I haven’t had a dream with Autum for over a week. How about you Jim have you heard from Autum?”
Jim replied, “Not in a long time. The last time was the nightmare.”
Suzy went on, “I wonder when the crow showed up. I think that was the last time I got anything from her. I don’t know how this is supposed to happen. I guess we just head back. Maybe we forgot something?”
They went out of town and down the hill to the creek. Suzy took the wedding band from her pocket and put it on her finger. Then there was a bright flash as the bird landed on the back of the truck.
Suzy gasped, “Oh crap! How do I tell witch it is?”
Malinda went on, “You’ll just half to keep one eye on it. If the Crow is bad you’ll know it, but I think it’s a guide sent by Autum. You must be close to trying to go there.”
Suzy replied, “For sure Malinda we’re days away.”
Malinda questioned, “Anything else or are we done here.”
Suzy informed, “Nope that was it.”
Malinda ended with, “Have a safe trip.”
Steve questioned, “Well what did she say?”
Jim rolled out from under the truck and announced, “She said get back to work.”
Suzy replied, “Yep, back to work. That’s what she said alright.”
With that taken care of Suzy and Steve finished unloading the Wagon. Then Suzy had Steve take the crate with the seat in the shop, and they loaded the wagon again. Suzy had Steve measure the load twice and questioned. “You sure it will fit in the back of the truck?”
Steve replied, “I’d bet my pay on it. If we take off the wheels and put them on top it will go.”
Suzy took pictures as they unload it, so they could put it back the same way on the truck. Then she had Steve put the Wagon back in the barn, and stack the stuff in the shop. After that she sent Steve home for the day.
In the shop Jim was sitting in the truck. Suzy climbed up in the passenger side and shut the door. Jim looked at her and sighed, “Done.”
Suzy smiled and explained. “I have a problem. I have over fifty thousand in the trunk of my car. I’m scared to do anything with it. I don’t want to leave it here, and I don’t want to take it home. Heaven forbid I’m not leaving it in the car.”
Jim leaned his head back and whispered, “I thought I would be all excited and drive the truck off into the sunset or something, but it’s nothing like that. It’s more like boy I’m glad that’s done. What about you?”
Suzy insisted, “I can’t get the lid back on the beehive, and the train is going too fast.”
Jim snickered. Then he burst out laughing, “Whatever it is you got it’s bad. Remember you got that box over there you had made. Do you even have a lock for it?”
Suzy assured, “You bet I paid $300 for it. The lock is in the box. Do you want a key?”
Jim insisted, “I promised you this was not for the money. I’m not going back on that.”
Suzy replied, “That don’t fix my problem. It just moves it from the trunk to the box. I need to know what we should do with it.”
Jim popped his door open and looked at Suzy. She opened her door and followed Jim to the car. After opening the trunk Suzy took the top off the shoe box. Picking up the envelope she insisted, “Look in here Jim.”
Thumbing through the bills Jim confessed, “I like the one with the Buffalo on it.”
Jim looked at all the old money in the Shoe box, as Suzy explained, “There is $160 in coin’s here and it cost me over $50,000. Then there is another $160 in paper money that Oliver gave us. It might sound like a lot, but it’s only about a year’s worth of wages in 1874.”
Jim picked up the coffee can, “Damn this is heavy. What is this?”
Suzy disclosed, “It’s your shaving money. It’s all nickels in the coffee can. I think you can get a shave from the barber for 5 or 10 ¢.”
Suzy put the top back on the shoe box, and took it inside followed by Jim with the coffee can. Opening the box she had made she put in the shoe box and removed the lock. Jim insisted, “This can isn’t going to fit in there. You had the box made to small.”
Suzy growled, “Just take off the lid and dump them in Jim.”
Jim dumped the nickels in the box. Then Suzy locked the box, and handed Jim a key as she questioned, “Now what do we do with the box?”
Jim insisted, you grab the handle on that side and I’ll take the one on this side. Then we put it on the floor on the passenger side of the truck. Jim opened the door on the truck and took one handle.
Jim complained, “Oh hell you had to have this thing made out of steel. I should have used the crane,”
Suzy scolded, “Quit your wining Jim. Just be thankful I didn’t have it made the size of a steamer trunk.”
Jim grunted swinging his end to the floor of the truck, and helped Suzy slide the box in. Then Jim exclaimed, “That has got to weigh 100 pounds. I think it’s safe in there if we guard it, so I’ll sleep in the cab of the truck with my gun. You can sleep on your mattress with your quilt, and put your peace maker under your pillow.”
Suzy snapped back, “That won’t work! I can’t talk you to sleep that way. It’s not happening that way. I say we bring the mattress and springs over here next to the truck and we both sleep next to the truck.”
Jim knew once Suzy got something in her head she would never give up, so he gave in and did it her way. After the bed was made up Jim opened the shops little refrigerator and informed, “All I have in here is some burritos and a bottle of champagne. I was saving the champagne for when we were done, and the truck’s not loaded yet.”
Suzy replied. “Well put two of the burritos in the microwave, and get our coffee cups by the coffee pot. Pop the cork on the champagne and will celebrate finishing the truck.”
Jim and Suzy ate and drank champagne. They joked, laughed, started the truck, blew the horn, and revved the engine. Suzy sat on Jim’s lap bouncing up and down moving the steering wheel back and forth yelling, “We did it grandpa the dream is coming true.
The next morning Steve pulled into the farm and saw Jim’s truck. He went to the shop door and tried the handle, and found the door was locked. He pulled the key from his pocket and unlocked the door. Jim’s arm was under Suzy, and she had her head on Jim’s shoulder when they heard the door open.
They both scrambled for the peace makers, as they sat straight up in bed. Steve stepped in the door and threw his hands up in the air dropping the key. Stepping backwards out the door Steve exclaimed, “I’ll give you a minute. I’ll just be out here.”
Jim and Suzy looked at each other and smiled as they flopped back on the mattress. Suzy proclaimed, “Shit! We could have shot Steve.”
Jim moaned, “You know the springs squeak.”
Suzy complained, “Hell Jim we just about killed someone and all you can say is the springs squeak.”
Jim mumbled, “Did you make the coffee yet. You always make the coffee in the morning.”
Suzy got up and started the coffee maker as she explained, “You know the percolator over there with our stuff takes about twenty minutes to make coffee.”
Steve looked up at the crow and waved. The crow took flight and landed at Steve’s feet. Then walked in the shop and flew up on top the truck. Suzy looked up and said, “Well good morning.”
The crow squawked back at Suzy.
Suzy answered, “It’s nice to see you too.”
With his boots on Jim went out to see Steve.
Steve blurted, “You slept in your clothes last night.”
Jim replied, “No I passed out in my clothes last night. We drank a bottle of champagne last night to celebrate finishing the truck. The last thing I remember I was sitting in the truck, and Suzy was driving off into cartoon land.”
Steve snickered, “Oh that’s what’s going on. That explains a lot. You don’t want to know what I was thinking.”
Suzy came out not looking much better than Jim. Her work clothes were all wrinkled and her hair was all messed up as she announced, “Enough coffee has run through so you can steal a cup. Then we can load the wagon and all the stuff on the truck, and I’ll take us out to breakfast in the truck.”
Jim went in and opened up the roll-up door. Then he pulled out the truck and turned it so the back was pointing to the barn. Then he helped Steve pull the wagon from the barn. Jim commented, “The wagon pulls easier than I thought.”Steve replied, “That’s what I thought when I pushed it in last night. I think it’s the big wheels, and it’s not that heavy compared to a car.”
Looking at the wagon Jim questioned, “I think we’re going to have to take the tongue off.”
Steve replied. “There’s a toolbox built in in the front. It’s where you would put your feet if driving. I found it the day we picked it up.”
Suzy informed, “It’s called the Jockey box.”
Jim pulled out a wrench and exclaimed, “Wow a hand forged wrench. I’ve never seen anything like this.”
Suzy bragged, “The guy I commissioned hammered all the tools out on an anvil. He made a complete set for every nut and bolt on the wagon. He also told me that the head of every bolt is a different size than the nut. That’s so that you don’t need two of the same size wrenches.”
Jim chuckled, “They don’t make things like that anymore. Steve, let’s get two of the planks alongside the barn, and lean them against the bed of the truck. Then we can push the wagon axel up against it until the wheels come off the ground. Take off the wheels and slide the wagon in.”
Steve replied, “Sounds like a plan.”
Then that is what they did. When the axel hit the planks Jim used a two by four as a lever, and slid the wagon up until the wheels were off the ground. Then Jim took off the wheels and Steve took off the tongue. After handing the tongue out to Jim Steve climbed over the wagon, and out of the truck.
Next they pushed the wagon until the backend popped up. Then they took off the back wheels. Now they pushed as hard as they could, but it wasn’t working. Suzy came and help push, but that wasn’t much better. Then the crow landed on the back of the wagon and it slid right in. Once it was in the truck the crow flew back to the tree.
Suzy disclosed, “Did you see that?”
Jim declared, “I don’t care how that happened. I’m just glad it’s in there.”
With a bewildered look Steve questioned, “Did I miss something?”
Suzy said, “No Steve, Jim just can’t believe how strong I am.”
Then they started loading all the stuff on the wagon. Steve climbed up in the back of the truck then in the wagon. Suzy looked at the pictures on her phone, and pointed out what went on the truck. Jim took it to Steve and he stacked it in the wagon. Steve had to get out and help with a few big and heavy things, but soon they were down to the mattress and wagon wheels.
Soon Jim was tying down the canvas flap on the back of the truck. Then he turned to Steve and questioned, “You can follow us to town then have the rest of the day off.”Suzy came out of the shop with her messenger bag, as Jim put down the rollup door and locked the other door. Pulling a folder from her messenger bag Suzy handed it to Steve and informed, “Everything you need to run the farm is in there. It has the information on the combine I rented for the harvest. You have the agreement with Jack for the semi-truck to put the grain in. There is information on how to get paid at the bank. I want you to ride with Jack to take in the wheat, and keep track of the scales receipts. You’re in charge of the harvest. If you don’t think you can do it tell me now.”
Steve assured, “I can do this. Don’t worry about a thing.”
With that Suzy went over and got up in the truck. Sliding in she looked at Jim and complained, “What the hell Jim you forgot to put in the seatbelts.”
Jim just smiled, “Didn’t have them back then.”
Suzy mumbled, “Great!”
Jim put the truck in gear and after a few jerks. They were rolling down the driveway with the crow following them. Jim put the truck in high range and started down the road. Soon they were humming along at the top speed of 45 mph. Then they were going around Connors corner and down the hill and over the creek. Going into town Jim stopped at the gas station. Suzy got out and put her bank card in the pump, as Jim opened a bottle and poured it into the tank.
Suzy questioned, “What’s that stuff?”
Jim replied, “STA-BIL Storage Fuel Stabilizer it eliminates the need to drain the fuel prior to storage. It keeps fuel fresh for up to two years. It’s for things you only use once in a while.”
Suzy replied, “The pump is ready. Go ahead and fill it up.”
Jim was pumping the gas when Steve walked up and informed, “You know that crazy bird followed you here. It’s on top of the gas sign now.”
Jim looked up and sure enough there it was.
Suzy questioned, “You going to eat with us Steve?
Steve replied, “No, I just think I’ll go home.”
Suzy smiled and waved as Steve turned around and walked away. After getting gas Jim and Suzy went to breakfast followed by the crow. Jim parked in front of the restaurant and the bird landed on top of the truck. At the restaurant Suzy got back on her paranoia kick about the money, so she took out her phone and ordered the food. Jim went in and picked it up, and they ate in the truck. Then they sat there and talked about what to do.
Suzy informed, “I haven’t had a dream with Autum for over a week. How about you Jim have you heard from Autum?”
Jim replied, “Not in a long time. The last time was the nightmare.”
Suzy went on, “I wonder when the crow showed up. I think that was the last time I got anything from her. I don’t know how this is supposed to happen. I guess we just head back. Maybe we forgot something?”
They went out of town and down the hill to the creek. Suzy took the wedding band from her pocket and put it on her finger. Then there was a bright flash as the bird landed on the back of the truck.
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Ten – The Jump
The next thing Jim knew the truck was bouncing all over the place. Jim yelled, “Oh crap! I ran off the road! Hang on!”
Jim pushed on the break as the truck went over a bump making him push his foot down hard on the pedal. This slung Jim over the steering-wheel up on the dash. Then he fell on Suzy on the other side of the truck. With his left hand hanging on to the steering-wheel. Jim pulled himself back over to the driver’s seat. Finally Jim brought the truck to a stop.
Looking at Suzy up against the dash Jim question, “You all right?”
Suzy replied, “I think so. I told you we needed seatbelts!”
Jim insisted, “Give me a moment I think I ran off the road, and that damn crow is on the hood looking at us.”
Suzy rolled onto the seat and pulled herself up. Then she looked at the crow and out the side mirror. With a gasp Suzy exclaimed, “Jim, look in your side mirror. We ran off a dirt road, and the bridge is gone. Now the dirt road just runs in one side of the creek and out the other side.”
Jim just sat there looking at the crow. Suzy question, “Are you all right Jim? You don’t look so good.”
Jim insisted, “The lid flew off the beehive, and the train is going too fast to jump. I don’t want to believe what just happen. This can’t be true. I feel drugged or something. Please tell me we didn’t just jump through time.”
Suzy assured, “I think that’s just what happened. We just went some ware for sure. Suzy pulled her phone from her messenger bag. She tried to turn it on, but it didn’t work. She revealed, “Well my phone doesn’t work whatever that means.”
Just then the crow squawked and flew over to a tree by the creek. It flew back and squawked again. Then the crow flew back to the tree. Suzy insisted, “I think it wants us to follow it.”
Jim slipped the truck into low range as he exclaimed, “What the hell I guess there’s no turning back now. Let’s do this.”
Jim turned the truck around and headed across the field to the tree. As he got close the crow flew to another tree downstream. This went on for about a mile or so. Then they came to a flat spot. That was next to a place that dipped down into a low flat spot surrounded by trees. The crow landed on the ground and squawked.
Jim questioned, “Do you think this is the spot?”
Suzy replied, “Looks like the crow thinks it is, and that spot down there looks great for hiding the truck.”
Jim turned off the truck and got out. Suzy walked around the front of the truck and sat on the running board. Looking around Jim exclaimed, “It smells like rain to me. What do you think Suzy?”
Jim sat next to Suzy on the running board as she agreed, “I think it looks like rain by the clouds too. You know it’s kind of tight with both of us sitting on this running board, but it feels good right now.”
Jim whispered, “I’m a little scared and I need you now. I don’t know what to do. We’re in the middle of nowhere and I don’t even know what day it is. I don’t want to get all the stuff out and have it start raining.”
Suzy put her arm over Jim’s shoulder and whispered, “We got this Jim. I’ve been preparing for this the whole time. That’s why the wheels for the wagon are on top the cover, and the bed and springs are under that. We take out the wheels and we have the cover to use for a tarp. Then we can sleep on the bed on top of everything. The truck has the canvas cover on it and it will be like sleeping in a tent.
I’ve got some trail mix I made up, and it’s easy to get to. Tomorrow we can go buy a team in Lambert. I know its three miles to the bridge and we’re about a mile down the creek. That means a four or five mile walk at the most. We can do that, but we’ll have to change into our 1800’s clothes first. Oh and we can’t forget the harnesses for the horses.”
Jim confessed, “Wow you got this down. I never would have been that prepared.”
Suzy continued, “You didn’t have to. I told you from the day we thought this could happen this was my job. You just had to build the truck. That should have had seatbelts, and that’s what you did. I’m so thankful to have you Jim. You will never know what you have done for me. I’m the only family you have and you’re the only family I have.”
Jim stood up and looked at where they came from. Seeing the tire tracks in the tall grass made him worry. Suzy looked at Jim and asked, “What’s the matter Jim?”
Jim replied, “It’s the tire tracks. If someone sees them and follows them they lead right to the truck. You don’t have to be much of a tracker to follow this truck.”
Suzy requested, “What do you think we should do Jim.”
Jim replied, “I need to think about it.”
Then Jim felt a rain drop and exclaimed, “We better get the wheels unloaded.”
Jim undid the flap on the back of the truck cover. Then he climbed up and slid out the first wagon wheel. He lowered it to the ground, and Suzy rolled it over by a tree. By the time Jim got out the last wheel it was lightly raining. Suzy ran and jumped in the truck. Jim followed her, and started the truck.
Turning on the heater Jim exclaimed, “I think it dropped ten degrees when the rain started. We need to keep as dry as possible. Bad things happen when you’re cold and wet.”
Suzy explained, “Especially in this time. If we get sick then what? There is no Doctor for only God knows how far. Drug stores are nonexistent in this time. All they have is some Elixirs, Tonics and snake oils on the shelf at the store, and most of them didn’t work. The only drugs in most of them were morphine, and alcohol. I guess you don’t know you’re sick if you’re stoned or drunk. I do have a secret stash of Tylenol, Aspirin, Naproxen, antacid tablets, and a few others. We still need to be careful around sick people.”
Jim bragged, “Suzy I love you more and more, and feel lucky to have you. I never could have been this prepared.”
Suzy boasted, “I know, guys fix things and girls talk about things. Guys call it gossip, but to girls it’s knowledge. We just don’t look at life the same, but you and I understand that. That’s why we get along so well, because you do your thing and I do my thing. That’s why we’re here, and why we can do this. We got this Jim, and I love you too.”
Suzy laid on the seat with her head on Jim’s lap. Jim just stared out the truck window thinking. He was feeling better knowing they were so well prepared, but his emotional state was on a roller coaster ride. Accepting the fact they just did the impossible and went through time. He thought he could be losing touch with reality, and this is all a mythical place existing only in his imagination.
Looking down at Suzy Jim thought, You’re like the sun in the summer sky. You give me that warm feeling all over. When I have indecision you’re there to help me make a decision. No matter what I need you’re there for me just like Autum. You’re so much like Autum you’ll never know. You tell me that Autum tells you to do this and that in your dreams, but I know it’s you. It has to be you, or has this time jump scrambled my mind. Oh shit I have to get my thoughts together.
Jim turned off the truck, and Suzy sat up on the seat. Looking at Jim she questioned, “Is everything all right?”
Jim replied, “Sure, are you dry yet? I know you were out there in the rain the whole time. Most of the time, I was under the cover on the back of the truck. I have no way to tell what time it is, but I think it’s getting late. I don’t know if the clouds are making it darker, or it’s turning to night.”
Suzy reasoned, “Maybe we should go back and make our bed before it gets to dark.”
Jim replied. “Sounds like a plan.”
They got out and ran to the back of the truck. Then they crawled under the canvas. They worked their way to the other end of the truck bed. Then they started rolling the cover for the wagon up. They rolled it like a rug until it was past the end of the mattress.
Then Suzy explained, “We need to drop the tailgate so I can get the guns and quilt.”
Jim whined, “So I have to go back in the rain.”
Suzy replied, “Not if I hold up the flap like an awning, and you put the stuff next to me.”
After retrieving everything Jim closed the tailgate, and slid back up on the mattress. Laying back and taking a deep breath Jim heard the rain pick up. It was pouring now and drops pounded on the canvas like a drum.
Suzy commented, “It’s noisy in here. I hope it don’t rain for days.”
Jim revealed, “There’s no way to know. Hell, we don’t even know what time of year it is. Spring, summer, fall, or winter, we just don’t know. For all we know it could snow tomorrow.”
Suzy snapped back, “I should slap you for even using that word Jim.”
Jim was quiet for a while then fell asleep. Then he woke up to the boom of thunder. He was shivering and Suzy was cuddled up next to him. Jim rolled over to face Suzy and cuddled up as close as he could. Then he heard another Boom louder than before. Then there was a tink and another tink. Hell was hitting the roof of the truck cab. Then it opened up and thunder cracked in the air as the pounding of the hell echoed around them.
Suzy squeezed Jim tight as she whispered. “It’s cold.”
Jim slipped down and rolled the wagon cover up over the quilt, and cuddled up as close as he could to Suzy. The storm raged on for what seemed like hours keeping Jim awake. Finally Jim drifted off to sleep. Then he heard the crow squawking, and thought, Damn thing thinks it’s a rooster.
Jim rolled on his back and rubbed his eyes. Suzy moaned, “What a hell of a night. I’m glad that’s over with.”
Jim slipped down to the foot of the bed and looked out the flap. The sun was just coming up over the top of the trees, and he didn’t see a cloud in the sky.
Jim put his boots on and got out of the truck bed. He looked around and saw his truck tracks were gone. The hell had beaten all the grass down flat. With a sigh of relief Jim thought, At least I don’t have to worry about that any more.
Suzy slipped out from under the flap and questioned. “Do you want to try to find some dry wood and build a fire? Or do you want to start getting ready to go?”
Jim replied, I want to dig a hole and bury the money box, and park one of the trucks dually’s on it. If someone finds our truck they most likely won’t know what it is, and won’t be able to start it or move it. They can steal our stuff but not our money. What do you think?”
Suzy insisted, “That’s a great idea Jim. The shovel is going to take a bit to get to, but other than that I like it.”
Jim gave Suzy a funny look and announced, “This is an Army truck. It has a fold up shovel behind the seat.”
Suzy told Jim to go ahead and dig the hole, and she’d start getting out what they would need. Soon Suzy had all the stuff laid-out on the tailgate, and Jim had dug the hole.
Jim announced, “I’m ready to do the money box.”
Suzy replied, “On my way Jim.”
Suzy took out her key and unlocked the box. Then she took eighty dollars out of the envelope and handed it to Jim. Getting five silver dollars she gave them to Jim along with four quarters, ten dimes, and a hand full of nickels. She exclaimed, “There that’s close to ninety dollars. We should be able to get horses and whatever else we need.”
She put the lock back on the box and Jim helped pull out the box. They carried it to the hole and put it in. Jim covered it up and put the peace of sod he carefully removed on top of it. Then he pulled some grass from another spot and spread it around it. Stepping back and looking at it he questioned, “What do you think Suzy?”
She assured, “Looks great you can’t even tell you did it.”
Jim informed, “I’m going to back up the truck and you tell me when the second set of tires is on it.”
Suzy guided Jim back until the truck was parked on the box. Then he came around to the tail gate. Where Suzy had Jim change his clothes and boots. Then she had him put on his holster and peace maker.
Seeing the bone handle knife Jim questioned, where did that knife come from?”
Suzy replied, “I had the blacksmith make it for you. Go ahead and put it on. I also got you this pocket watch so we could tell time. Hook the chain to your vest and put the watch in your pocket. I set it for ten o’clock I don’t know what time it is, but at least we’ll know how long we’ve been walking. I’ll take the rifle and canteen. You can carry the harness and money.
Jim questioned, “When did you get the rifle out from behind the seat?”
Suzy answered, “I didn’t. This is one I got to trade for a horse. It was cheaper than buying money, and no one will ever know it’s a reproduction. Well the serial number might freak someone out some day, but I don’t think anyone will check that out now. That’s it lets close up the back. Then check that the doors are locked and go.”
They walked out the same way they drove in. By the time they got to the road Jim was complaining about his boots, “I should have been breaking-in these boots a month ago. My feet hurt like hell.”
Suzy complained, “My boots are the same way. We are just going to half to tuff it.”
Stopping about half way to rest Jim commented, “At least it’s not hot as hell or raining. After last night I worried about that.’
Suzy insisted, “Let’s go Jim. I’m hungry and need to get something to eat. I hope they have a hamburger joint or something.”
Jim laughed, “I know for a fact the hamburger wasn’t invented until 1885 by a guy in Texas.”
Suzy questioned, “How do you know that?”
Jim replied, “I don’t know. I just looked it up one time and I remembered it. Now if I’d remembered the guy’s name I’d worry, but I don’t have a clue.”
Suzy blurted, “Look Jim I see town up ahead.”
Jim’s heart started to pound, and he felt fear running through his body. He thought, I’m from Waco Texas and a cattle rancher. This is going to be fine.
As they walked into town Suzy said, “Look at the Hotel. It’s a big two story thing with balconies. I bet they serve food there. Let’s go check it out.”
Stepping in the door they saw the counter for checking into the hotel on the right, and a dining room on the left. They went through the large arched entry, and were met by a man who asked, “Are you here to eat?”
Suzy replied, “We sure are.”
The next thing Jim knew the truck was bouncing all over the place. Jim yelled, “Oh crap! I ran off the road! Hang on!”Jim pushed on the break as the truck went over a bump making him push his foot down hard on the pedal. This slung Jim over the steering-wheel up on the dash. Then he fell on Suzy on the other side of the truck. With his left hand hanging on to the steering-wheel. Jim pulled himself back over to the driver’s seat. Finally Jim brought the truck to a stop.
Looking at Suzy up against the dash Jim question, “You all right?”
Suzy replied, “I think so. I told you we needed seatbelts!”
Jim insisted, “Give me a moment I think I ran off the road, and that damn crow is on the hood looking at us.”
Suzy rolled onto the seat and pulled herself up. Then she looked at the crow and out the side mirror. With a gasp Suzy exclaimed, “Jim, look in your side mirror. We ran off a dirt road, and the bridge is gone. Now the dirt road just runs in one side of the creek and out the other side.”
Jim just sat there looking at the crow. Suzy question, “Are you all right Jim? You don’t look so good.”
Jim insisted, “The lid flew off the beehive, and the train is going too fast to jump. I don’t want to believe what just happen. This can’t be true. I feel drugged or something. Please tell me we didn’t just jump through time.”
Suzy assured, “I think that’s just what happened. We just went some ware for sure. Suzy pulled her phone from her messenger bag. She tried to turn it on, but it didn’t work. She revealed, “Well my phone doesn’t work whatever that means.”
Just then the crow squawked and flew over to a tree by the creek. It flew back and squawked again. Then the crow flew back to the tree. Suzy insisted, “I think it wants us to follow it.”
Jim slipped the truck into low range as he exclaimed, “What the hell I guess there’s no turning back now. Let’s do this.”
Jim turned the truck around and headed across the field to the tree. As he got close the crow flew to another tree downstream. This went on for about a mile or so. Then they came to a flat spot. That was next to a place that dipped down into a low flat spot surrounded by trees. The crow landed on the ground and squawked.
Jim questioned, “Do you think this is the spot?”
Suzy replied, “Looks like the crow thinks it is, and that spot down there looks great for hiding the truck.”
Jim turned off the truck and got out. Suzy walked around the front of the truck and sat on the running board. Looking around Jim exclaimed, “It smells like rain to me. What do you think Suzy?”
Jim sat next to Suzy on the running board as she agreed, “I think it looks like rain by the clouds too. You know it’s kind of tight with both of us sitting on this running board, but it feels good right now.”
Jim whispered, “I’m a little scared and I need you now. I don’t know what to do. We’re in the middle of nowhere and I don’t even know what day it is. I don’t want to get all the stuff out and have it start raining.”
Suzy put her arm over Jim’s shoulder and whispered, “We got this Jim. I’ve been preparing for this the whole time. That’s why the wheels for the wagon are on top the cover, and the bed and springs are under that. We take out the wheels and we have the cover to use for a tarp. Then we can sleep on the bed on top of everything. The truck has the canvas cover on it and it will be like sleeping in a tent.
I’ve got some trail mix I made up, and it’s easy to get to. Tomorrow we can go buy a team in Lambert. I know its three miles to the bridge and we’re about a mile down the creek. That means a four or five mile walk at the most. We can do that, but we’ll have to change into our 1800’s clothes first. Oh and we can’t forget the harnesses for the horses.”
Jim confessed, “Wow you got this down. I never would have been that prepared.”
Suzy continued, “You didn’t have to. I told you from the day we thought this could happen this was my job. You just had to build the truck. That should have had seatbelts, and that’s what you did. I’m so thankful to have you Jim. You will never know what you have done for me. I’m the only family you have and you’re the only family I have.”
Jim stood up and looked at where they came from. Seeing the tire tracks in the tall grass made him worry. Suzy looked at Jim and asked, “What’s the matter Jim?”
Jim replied, “It’s the tire tracks. If someone sees them and follows them they lead right to the truck. You don’t have to be much of a tracker to follow this truck.”
Suzy requested, “What do you think we should do Jim.”
Jim replied, “I need to think about it.”
Then Jim felt a rain drop and exclaimed, “We better get the wheels unloaded.”
Jim undid the flap on the back of the truck cover. Then he climbed up and slid out the first wagon wheel. He lowered it to the ground, and Suzy rolled it over by a tree. By the time Jim got out the last wheel it was lightly raining. Suzy ran and jumped in the truck. Jim followed her, and started the truck.
Turning on the heater Jim exclaimed, “I think it dropped ten degrees when the rain started. We need to keep as dry as possible. Bad things happen when you’re cold and wet.”
Suzy explained, “Especially in this time. If we get sick then what? There is no Doctor for only God knows how far. Drug stores are nonexistent in this time. All they have is some Elixirs, Tonics and snake oils on the shelf at the store, and most of them didn’t work. The only drugs in most of them were morphine, and alcohol. I guess you don’t know you’re sick if you’re stoned or drunk. I do have a secret stash of Tylenol, Aspirin, Naproxen, antacid tablets, and a few others. We still need to be careful around sick people.”
Jim bragged, “Suzy I love you more and more, and feel lucky to have you. I never could have been this prepared.”
Suzy boasted, “I know, guys fix things and girls talk about things. Guys call it gossip, but to girls it’s knowledge. We just don’t look at life the same, but you and I understand that. That’s why we get along so well, because you do your thing and I do my thing. That’s why we’re here, and why we can do this. We got this Jim, and I love you too.”
Suzy laid on the seat with her head on Jim’s lap. Jim just stared out the truck window thinking. He was feeling better knowing they were so well prepared, but his emotional state was on a roller coaster ride. Accepting the fact they just did the impossible and went through time. He thought he could be losing touch with reality, and this is all a mythical place existing only in his imagination.
Looking down at Suzy Jim thought, You’re like the sun in the summer sky. You give me that warm feeling all over. When I have indecision you’re there to help me make a decision. No matter what I need you’re there for me just like Autum. You’re so much like Autum you’ll never know. You tell me that Autum tells you to do this and that in your dreams, but I know it’s you. It has to be you, or has this time jump scrambled my mind. Oh shit I have to get my thoughts together.
Jim turned off the truck, and Suzy sat up on the seat. Looking at Jim she questioned, “Is everything all right?”
Jim replied, “Sure, are you dry yet? I know you were out there in the rain the whole time. Most of the time, I was under the cover on the back of the truck. I have no way to tell what time it is, but I think it’s getting late. I don’t know if the clouds are making it darker, or it’s turning to night.”
Suzy reasoned, “Maybe we should go back and make our bed before it gets to dark.”
Jim replied. “Sounds like a plan.”
They got out and ran to the back of the truck. Then they crawled under the canvas. They worked their way to the other end of the truck bed. Then they started rolling the cover for the wagon up. They rolled it like a rug until it was past the end of the mattress.
Then Suzy explained, “We need to drop the tailgate so I can get the guns and quilt.”
Jim whined, “So I have to go back in the rain.”
Suzy replied, “Not if I hold up the flap like an awning, and you put the stuff next to me.”
After retrieving everything Jim closed the tailgate, and slid back up on the mattress. Laying back and taking a deep breath Jim heard the rain pick up. It was pouring now and drops pounded on the canvas like a drum.
Suzy commented, “It’s noisy in here. I hope it don’t rain for days.”
Jim revealed, “There’s no way to know. Hell, we don’t even know what time of year it is. Spring, summer, fall, or winter, we just don’t know. For all we know it could snow tomorrow.”
Suzy snapped back, “I should slap you for even using that word Jim.”
Jim was quiet for a while then fell asleep. Then he woke up to the boom of thunder. He was shivering and Suzy was cuddled up next to him. Jim rolled over to face Suzy and cuddled up as close as he could. Then he heard another Boom louder than before. Then there was a tink and another tink. Hell was hitting the roof of the truck cab. Then it opened up and thunder cracked in the air as the pounding of the hell echoed around them.
Suzy squeezed Jim tight as she whispered. “It’s cold.”
Jim slipped down and rolled the wagon cover up over the quilt, and cuddled up as close as he could to Suzy. The storm raged on for what seemed like hours keeping Jim awake. Finally Jim drifted off to sleep. Then he heard the crow squawking, and thought, Damn thing thinks it’s a rooster.
Jim rolled on his back and rubbed his eyes. Suzy moaned, “What a hell of a night. I’m glad that’s over with.”
Jim slipped down to the foot of the bed and looked out the flap. The sun was just coming up over the top of the trees, and he didn’t see a cloud in the sky.
Jim put his boots on and got out of the truck bed. He looked around and saw his truck tracks were gone. The hell had beaten all the grass down flat. With a sigh of relief Jim thought, At least I don’t have to worry about that any more.
Suzy slipped out from under the flap and questioned. “Do you want to try to find some dry wood and build a fire? Or do you want to start getting ready to go?”
Jim replied, I want to dig a hole and bury the money box, and park one of the trucks dually’s on it. If someone finds our truck they most likely won’t know what it is, and won’t be able to start it or move it. They can steal our stuff but not our money. What do you think?”
Suzy insisted, “That’s a great idea Jim. The shovel is going to take a bit to get to, but other than that I like it.”
Jim gave Suzy a funny look and announced, “This is an Army truck. It has a fold up shovel behind the seat.”Suzy told Jim to go ahead and dig the hole, and she’d start getting out what they would need. Soon Suzy had all the stuff laid-out on the tailgate, and Jim had dug the hole.
Jim announced, “I’m ready to do the money box.”
Suzy replied, “On my way Jim.”
Suzy took out her key and unlocked the box. Then she took eighty dollars out of the envelope and handed it to Jim. Getting five silver dollars she gave them to Jim along with four quarters, ten dimes, and a hand full of nickels. She exclaimed, “There that’s close to ninety dollars. We should be able to get horses and whatever else we need.”
She put the lock back on the box and Jim helped pull out the box. They carried it to the hole and put it in. Jim covered it up and put the peace of sod he carefully removed on top of it. Then he pulled some grass from another spot and spread it around it. Stepping back and looking at it he questioned, “What do you think Suzy?”
She assured, “Looks great you can’t even tell you did it.”
Jim informed, “I’m going to back up the truck and you tell me when the second set of tires is on it.”
Suzy guided Jim back until the truck was parked on the box. Then he came around to the tail gate. Where Suzy had Jim change his clothes and boots. Then she had him put on his holster and peace maker.
Seeing the bone handle knife Jim questioned, where did that knife come from?”
Suzy replied, “I had the blacksmith make it for you. Go ahead and put it on. I also got you this pocket watch so we could tell time. Hook the chain to your vest and put the watch in your pocket. I set it for ten o’clock I don’t know what time it is, but at least we’ll know how long we’ve been walking. I’ll take the rifle and canteen. You can carry the harness and money.
Jim questioned, “When did you get the rifle out from behind the seat?”
Suzy answered, “I didn’t. This is one I got to trade for a horse. It was cheaper than buying money, and no one will ever know it’s a reproduction. Well the serial number might freak someone out some day, but I don’t think anyone will check that out now. That’s it lets close up the back. Then check that the doors are locked and go.”
They walked out the same way they drove in. By the time they got to the road Jim was complaining about his boots, “I should have been breaking-in these boots a month ago. My feet hurt like hell.”
Suzy complained, “My boots are the same way. We are just going to half to tuff it.”
Stopping about half way to rest Jim commented, “At least it’s not hot as hell or raining. After last night I worried about that.’
Suzy insisted, “Let’s go Jim. I’m hungry and need to get something to eat. I hope they have a hamburger joint or something.”
Jim laughed, “I know for a fact the hamburger wasn’t invented until 1885 by a guy in Texas.”
Suzy questioned, “How do you know that?”
Jim replied, “I don’t know. I just looked it up one time and I remembered it. Now if I’d remembered the guy’s name I’d worry, but I don’t have a clue.”
Suzy blurted, “Look Jim I see town up ahead.”
Jim’s heart started to pound, and he felt fear running through his body. He thought, I’m from Waco Texas and a cattle rancher. This is going to be fine.
As they walked into town Suzy said, “Look at the Hotel. It’s a big two story thing with balconies. I bet they serve food there. Let’s go check it out.”Stepping in the door they saw the counter for checking into the hotel on the right, and a dining room on the left. They went through the large arched entry, and were met by a man who asked, “Are you here to eat?”
Suzy replied, “We sure are.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
The man replied, “It’s not quite eleven yet, but I’ll check with the cook. The special is a roast beef sandwich and vegetable soup for 15¢.”
Suzy insisted, “That’s what we want two of them. Do you have coffee?”
The man informed, “It comes with the meal. Just pick a table and have a seat, and I’ll be right back.”
Jim set the harness in a chair. Suzy leaned the rifle against the same chair, and hung the canteen over the barrel. Then they sat across from each other. Jim exclaimed, I don’t believe it we walked in waring guns, and you were caring a rifle.
The man came back with two bowls of soup and assured, “I’ll be right back with the coffee. The cook is making your sandwiches and they will be right out.”
The man came right back with an old perk coffee pot and questioned, “Are you riders?
Suzy replied, “No ranchers.”
The man left and Jim asked, “What did he mean by riders?
Suzy replied, “I think he meant like the Pony Express.”
They both took their spoons and tasted the soup. Jim informed, “It’s kind of bland.”
Suzy responded, “At least it has lots of carrots and potatoes.”
Jim revealed, “I’m going to set the watch to eleven o’clock.”
Then the man came out with the sandwiches and set one in front of each of them and left. Then people started to trickle in and take a seat. Jim took a bite of his sandwich and informed, “It’s kind of dry. It’s just two slices of thick bread and a thin slice of roast beef.”
Suzy replied, “I think it’s just the way bread is made in this time. I think I’m going to dunk mine in my soup. That’s what you should do.”
They ate there soup and sandwich. Drank their espresso and Jim left a nickel on the table. Then they paid the 30¢ and left. Walking down the street Jim commented, “That coffee must have been sitting on the stove sense this morning. It was so strong it gave me the jitters.”
Suzy confessed, “I couldn’t drink all mine. I would have to add more milk than coffee to drink something like that.”
After walking to the other end of town they found the livery stables. Suzy walked up to the attendant and informed, “We’re looking to buy a team.”
Let me show you what we have. He took them out back to the corrals with horses in them. Then he took them over to a pear and insisted this is a good team for 100 dollars.
Suzy cocked her rifle and fired a shot off in the ground. One horse reared up and the other jumped in the air, and ran around bucking. Suzy insisted, “Nope!” pointing to the bucking horse she continued, “That one is gun-shy.”
The guy yelled, “Are you crazy lady? You could hurt someone that way!”
Suzy insisted, “Only if I point it at them.”
Jim elbowed Suzy and pointed. She looked and there was the crow sitting on a fence post. It took flight and landed on a red Mustang. Suzy questioned, “How much for the pair of reds over there.”
The man insisted, “80 dollars if it gets your crazy ass out of here.”
Suzy walked down to the Mustangs and handed Jim the rifle and canteen. Then she jumped over the fence, and walked up to the first horse. She checked each leg and hoof then looked in its mouth. Suzy patted it on the neck then she jumped up laying across the horse on her belly. Then she slung her leg over and sat up on the horse. She patted it between the ears as she talked to it. Then she jumped down and checked the other horse.
Suzy walked back and jumped over the fence. Then she exclaimed, “Well one is about 12 years old and the other could be as old as 15. It needs to have its hooves trimmed and new shoes. Then the other one has a loose shoe. I’ll give you $40 and the Winchester. I’ve only shot it twice, and you saw the one time. Hand him the rifle Jim.”
Looking over the gun he replied, “$50 and the gun.”
Suzy offered, “You say fifty and the gun. I say forty and the gun, so say we split it. Two horses for forty five and the gun.”
The man thought for a few and agreed. Suzy insisted she get a receipt, so she went to the office and got a sales receipt. Then Jim gave the man four ten’s and five silver dollars. Then they put the harness on the horses and walk them through town.
Jim questioned, “How much did you save by using the gun?”
Suzy thought for a moment and replied, “Its $300 in our time for a silver dollar. The horse would have been $40, so that is 40 times $300 or $12,000. The Winchester was $2,500 in our time, so I saved $9,500. It’s not just saving money. Money in this time period is hard to find. We were lucky to get the money we got, so we need to spend it wisely. As for the deal, the Winchester cost $50 right now, and he got it for $35. I guess I got took for $15”
Jim inquired, “Have you seen the crow?”
Suzy replied, “Yah it’s down there on the hotel watching us.”
Jim complained, “I need to get off my feet. The boots are killing me.”
Suzy said, “Just climb up on the horse and ride it.”
Jim confessed, “I don’t know how to ride a horse.”
Suzy snapped back, “Damn it Jim! Why didn’t you say something? You knew I was taking horse riding lessons. You could have been doing that too.”
Jim insisted, “I thought I would be riding around on a wagon. Not riding around on a horse.”
Suzy demanded, “Give me the reins and climb up on the horse.”
Jim handed Suzy the reins, and climbed up on the horse. Suzy tied the reins to her gun belt and climbed on the other horse. Then she rode down the road with Jim’s horse tethered to her gun belt. She stopped at the creek to water the horses. Then back to camp. Arriving at camp everything was just as they left it. Sliding off the horse Jim complained, “Now my feet and butt hurt.”
Suzy chastised, “Jim quit your wining. We have to unload the truck so I can get the stuff to make dinner. Then you have to get wood and start a fire so I can cook it.”
Jim inquired, “Can I change into my old boots?”
Suzy ordered, “Well get with it Jim. I’m going to stake out the horses.”
After Jim changed his boots he pulled the wagon cover from the truck. Then he spread it out on the ground, and started putting stuff on it from the truck. Soon the truck was unloaded, and all that was left was the wagon. Jim got a roll of hemp rope from the pile on the tarp and threw it on the back of the wagon. Then he got in the truck and started the engine. He pulled the truck forward then backed it up to a tree. He got out and tied the rope to the tree and the wagon.
Then he had Suzy let him know when the wagon was hanging off far enough for the wheels. He put on the two back wheels. Checking the wagon break Jim went and pulled forward until the wheels dropped to the ground. Then he got in the back of the truck and worked the wagon break and pushed until he could put on the front wheels. After Jim got the front wheels on. He released the break and let the wagon slide off the planks. Pushing the planks in the back of the truck Jim hollered, “Done!”
Suzy answered, “Not with the fire wood. If you want to eat get the wood.”
Jim mumbled, “Crap.”
Then he took the ax and headed into the trees. Soon he returned with the ax and leaned it against the wagon.
Suzy questioned. “Where’s the wood?”
Jim joked, “In the woods of course. I cut off some dead branches and busted them up in a pile. I’m going to get it now.”
Soon Jim had carried and piled the fire wood. Then Suzy setup her cooking pot, and put water in it. Then she got out her dehydrated beef and put it in the pot. She got out a large baking potato and two carrots.
Then she requested, “Jim can I use your knife?”
Jim pulled his knife from the sheath and handed it to Suzy. Then she cut the potato and carrots over the pot without peeling them. Then she got an old tin can and opened it. Taking a pinch of the salt inside the can she put it in the pot.
Jim’s mouth dropped opened as he insisted, “Don’t tell me that’s hundred year old salt.”
Suzy laughed, “You know it is. It did come out of a salt mine somewhere. You silly guy you. That’s it dinner is cooking. It’s time for us to load the wagon and put the cover on it.”
Jim whined, “Don’t you ever stop?”
Suzy revealed, “When I’m sleeping. Now let’s get the tongue on first. Then we can put the springs and mattress in the back of the truck.”
With the wagon half loaded Suzy questioned, “What time do you have Jim?”
Jim pulled out his pocket watch and announced, “4:45 for whatever it matters.”
Suzy revealed, “Well I know from the sales receipt it’s May, 13, 1874. I also know it gets dark about 8:30 or 9:00 o’clock this time of year. I overheard someone at the Hotel say it’s going to be a new moon tonight, so that means it’s going to be dark as hell when the sun goes down.”
Jim replied, “We should be done in an hour or so. I think were fine even if I dig up the box.”
Suzy replied, “No I think we should do the box in the morning before we go.”
Jim questioned, “Are you sure you know how to hookup all the straps, wooden things with steel rings and stuff? It looks complicated.”
Suzy assured, “What do you think I was taking all the horse classes for. I spent the last three months learning this? The wooden things are called doubletrees and the big Collars are called yokes, and yes I know how to put on every strap and part of the rigging. I told you this was my job. You just had to build the truck, and you did the best job of that ever.”
Jim and Suzy finished loading the wagon and putting on the cover. They ate their dinner and washed up the pot in the creek. Then they put the stuff in the wagon.
Lying on the mattress Suzy questioned, “You ready for tomorrow?”
Jim replied, “To be honest today kind of freaked me out a little. I didn’t see anyone waring guns but us. And you were carrying around the rifle, but no one seemed to notice. Then when you shot it off at the livery it scared the hell out of me. I thought the Sheriff was going to come and put us in jail. I just sucked it up and kept going. I just want you to know this is the adventure of a lifetime even if it is hazardous.”
Suzy informed, “I have to teach you to ride a horse. You won’t be able to do things in these times without that knowledge.”
The next morning Suzy mixed up a pan bread in a cast-iron frying pan, and got a fire going. Getting Jim’s knife she carved off some of the bacon from the smoked and cured side she got. It was over ten dollars a pound but came in a cloth bag, and didn’t need refrigeration. It fit the times.
Jim dug up the money box and Suzy helped him with the springs and mattress. Then Jim backed the truck down in the hole surrounded by trees. Then he took off the battery cables just in case so the battery wouldn’t go dead.
Back at the wagon Suzy had the chairs out, and had turned over the pan bread. Looking at the bread Suzy thought, Not quite like when I practiced it at home on the stove, but we’ll eat.
Jim came back and sat in a chair, as Suzy dumped the bread on a tin plate. Dropping the bacon in the pan she exclaimed, “It will be ready in just a few. The coffee is perking, and we’re just waiting for the bacon.”
After eating Suzy requested, “Jim take the canteen and frying pan to the creek. Fell the canteen and wash the pan. I’ll hitch up the team. Then we can load the money box, and we’ll be on our way.
It was a slow ride over the ruff field to the road, but Jim turned the wagon on to the road and commented, “Made that turn. I think I’m getting the hang of this.”
With the horses at a walk they slowly moved along. That’s when Jim saw the corn field up ahead.
Coming up on Connors corner Jim announced, “Look it’s the corn field it really was on this corner.”
Going around the corner Suzy insisted, “Stop the wagon! Now pull back on the break handle until it locks. Then wrap the reins around the break handle twice. There you just learned how to park the wagon.”
Suzy jump down off the wagon and walked to the edge of the field. Then she yelled. “Look at that little tree Jim. It must grow up to be the tree that killed my mom, dad, and Autum. Let’s chop it down.”
Then the crow landed on Suzy’s head and her eyes rolled back in her head. She fell to the ground lifeless. Then her mother appeared before her, “Oh my dear child how I love you. You’ve work so hard and given up so much to make it here. It saddens me to bring you this news. You have to understand that no one has ever come back from the other side. If you remove what killed us we will just die another way.
I’m sorry about Autum she’s to drained to come to you now. She used up her energy protecting you, and has to regenerate. That’s why I sent the crow to guide and protect you. I’m also sorry to tell you that you can’t go back home. You can stop the curse, but there is no one in that time for it to help. I’m so proud of what you’ve become. Give Jim lots of love he needs it now more than ever. I love you my dear child.”
Then Clara faded away and Suzy slowly opened her eyes. Seeing Jim knelling next to her she started to sob uncontrollably wining, “I ruined everything”
Jim wrapped his arms around her and whispered, “Whenever you need someone to lay your head on I’ll be there for you. Wherever you go, I'll be with you. Whatever you want, I'll give it to you. Whatever it is I’ll do it. Jest let me know. Only love knows why your heart cries. My heart cries here too, but we got each other. Isn’t that what you keep telling me? We got this, you and me girl. Just lean on me and I’ll take you places you could never dream of.”
Suzy just got worse with every word Jim would say. It hurt him so to see her cry. His heart sunk and Jim became saddened by the hurt Suzy was going through.
Then the crow came down and landed next to Suzy. It jumped up on her shoulder and rubbed its head on her face wiping the tears. Jim fell back on his butt staring at the bird in disbelief. Then the crow flew over to Jims shoulder and rubbed its head on his face. Wiping the tears on Jim making him feel all the emotions Suzy was having. Jim filled with, affection, anger, concern, desire, despair, empathy, passion, anguish, grief, regret, and sorrow. It made him so sad he passed out.
Wiping her eyes Suzy moved next to Jim. She called out his name as she shook him. All Suzy’s emotions had put Jim in a trance like state, as her feelings surged through him. His ability to function voluntarily had been suspended. It was as if he was under hypnosis. He could hear Suzy’s voice calling his name but he couldn’t move.
Then the crow started squawking and Jim opened his eyes. Suzy fell on top of Jim as she whispered. “Thank God.”
Suzy insisted, “That’s what we want two of them. Do you have coffee?”
The man informed, “It comes with the meal. Just pick a table and have a seat, and I’ll be right back.”
Jim set the harness in a chair. Suzy leaned the rifle against the same chair, and hung the canteen over the barrel. Then they sat across from each other. Jim exclaimed, I don’t believe it we walked in waring guns, and you were caring a rifle.
The man came back with two bowls of soup and assured, “I’ll be right back with the coffee. The cook is making your sandwiches and they will be right out.”
The man came right back with an old perk coffee pot and questioned, “Are you riders?
Suzy replied, “No ranchers.”
The man left and Jim asked, “What did he mean by riders?
Suzy replied, “I think he meant like the Pony Express.”
They both took their spoons and tasted the soup. Jim informed, “It’s kind of bland.”
Suzy responded, “At least it has lots of carrots and potatoes.”
Jim revealed, “I’m going to set the watch to eleven o’clock.”
Then the man came out with the sandwiches and set one in front of each of them and left. Then people started to trickle in and take a seat. Jim took a bite of his sandwich and informed, “It’s kind of dry. It’s just two slices of thick bread and a thin slice of roast beef.”
Suzy replied, “I think it’s just the way bread is made in this time. I think I’m going to dunk mine in my soup. That’s what you should do.”
They ate there soup and sandwich. Drank their espresso and Jim left a nickel on the table. Then they paid the 30¢ and left. Walking down the street Jim commented, “That coffee must have been sitting on the stove sense this morning. It was so strong it gave me the jitters.”
Suzy confessed, “I couldn’t drink all mine. I would have to add more milk than coffee to drink something like that.”
After walking to the other end of town they found the livery stables. Suzy walked up to the attendant and informed, “We’re looking to buy a team.”Let me show you what we have. He took them out back to the corrals with horses in them. Then he took them over to a pear and insisted this is a good team for 100 dollars.
Suzy cocked her rifle and fired a shot off in the ground. One horse reared up and the other jumped in the air, and ran around bucking. Suzy insisted, “Nope!” pointing to the bucking horse she continued, “That one is gun-shy.”
The guy yelled, “Are you crazy lady? You could hurt someone that way!”
Suzy insisted, “Only if I point it at them.”
Jim elbowed Suzy and pointed. She looked and there was the crow sitting on a fence post. It took flight and landed on a red Mustang. Suzy questioned, “How much for the pair of reds over there.”
The man insisted, “80 dollars if it gets your crazy ass out of here.”
Suzy walked down to the Mustangs and handed Jim the rifle and canteen. Then she jumped over the fence, and walked up to the first horse. She checked each leg and hoof then looked in its mouth. Suzy patted it on the neck then she jumped up laying across the horse on her belly. Then she slung her leg over and sat up on the horse. She patted it between the ears as she talked to it. Then she jumped down and checked the other horse.
Suzy walked back and jumped over the fence. Then she exclaimed, “Well one is about 12 years old and the other could be as old as 15. It needs to have its hooves trimmed and new shoes. Then the other one has a loose shoe. I’ll give you $40 and the Winchester. I’ve only shot it twice, and you saw the one time. Hand him the rifle Jim.”
Looking over the gun he replied, “$50 and the gun.”
Suzy offered, “You say fifty and the gun. I say forty and the gun, so say we split it. Two horses for forty five and the gun.”
The man thought for a few and agreed. Suzy insisted she get a receipt, so she went to the office and got a sales receipt. Then Jim gave the man four ten’s and five silver dollars. Then they put the harness on the horses and walk them through town.
Jim questioned, “How much did you save by using the gun?”
Suzy thought for a moment and replied, “Its $300 in our time for a silver dollar. The horse would have been $40, so that is 40 times $300 or $12,000. The Winchester was $2,500 in our time, so I saved $9,500. It’s not just saving money. Money in this time period is hard to find. We were lucky to get the money we got, so we need to spend it wisely. As for the deal, the Winchester cost $50 right now, and he got it for $35. I guess I got took for $15”
Jim inquired, “Have you seen the crow?”
Suzy replied, “Yah it’s down there on the hotel watching us.”
Jim complained, “I need to get off my feet. The boots are killing me.”
Suzy said, “Just climb up on the horse and ride it.”
Jim confessed, “I don’t know how to ride a horse.”
Suzy snapped back, “Damn it Jim! Why didn’t you say something? You knew I was taking horse riding lessons. You could have been doing that too.”
Jim insisted, “I thought I would be riding around on a wagon. Not riding around on a horse.”
Suzy demanded, “Give me the reins and climb up on the horse.”
Jim handed Suzy the reins, and climbed up on the horse. Suzy tied the reins to her gun belt and climbed on the other horse. Then she rode down the road with Jim’s horse tethered to her gun belt. She stopped at the creek to water the horses. Then back to camp. Arriving at camp everything was just as they left it. Sliding off the horse Jim complained, “Now my feet and butt hurt.”
Suzy chastised, “Jim quit your wining. We have to unload the truck so I can get the stuff to make dinner. Then you have to get wood and start a fire so I can cook it.”
Jim inquired, “Can I change into my old boots?”
Suzy ordered, “Well get with it Jim. I’m going to stake out the horses.”
After Jim changed his boots he pulled the wagon cover from the truck. Then he spread it out on the ground, and started putting stuff on it from the truck. Soon the truck was unloaded, and all that was left was the wagon. Jim got a roll of hemp rope from the pile on the tarp and threw it on the back of the wagon. Then he got in the truck and started the engine. He pulled the truck forward then backed it up to a tree. He got out and tied the rope to the tree and the wagon.
Then he had Suzy let him know when the wagon was hanging off far enough for the wheels. He put on the two back wheels. Checking the wagon break Jim went and pulled forward until the wheels dropped to the ground. Then he got in the back of the truck and worked the wagon break and pushed until he could put on the front wheels. After Jim got the front wheels on. He released the break and let the wagon slide off the planks. Pushing the planks in the back of the truck Jim hollered, “Done!”
Suzy answered, “Not with the fire wood. If you want to eat get the wood.”
Jim mumbled, “Crap.”
Then he took the ax and headed into the trees. Soon he returned with the ax and leaned it against the wagon.
Suzy questioned. “Where’s the wood?”
Jim joked, “In the woods of course. I cut off some dead branches and busted them up in a pile. I’m going to get it now.”
Soon Jim had carried and piled the fire wood. Then Suzy setup her cooking pot, and put water in it. Then she got out her dehydrated beef and put it in the pot. She got out a large baking potato and two carrots.Then she requested, “Jim can I use your knife?”
Jim pulled his knife from the sheath and handed it to Suzy. Then she cut the potato and carrots over the pot without peeling them. Then she got an old tin can and opened it. Taking a pinch of the salt inside the can she put it in the pot.
Jim’s mouth dropped opened as he insisted, “Don’t tell me that’s hundred year old salt.”
Suzy laughed, “You know it is. It did come out of a salt mine somewhere. You silly guy you. That’s it dinner is cooking. It’s time for us to load the wagon and put the cover on it.”
Jim whined, “Don’t you ever stop?”
Suzy revealed, “When I’m sleeping. Now let’s get the tongue on first. Then we can put the springs and mattress in the back of the truck.”
With the wagon half loaded Suzy questioned, “What time do you have Jim?”
Jim pulled out his pocket watch and announced, “4:45 for whatever it matters.”
Suzy revealed, “Well I know from the sales receipt it’s May, 13, 1874. I also know it gets dark about 8:30 or 9:00 o’clock this time of year. I overheard someone at the Hotel say it’s going to be a new moon tonight, so that means it’s going to be dark as hell when the sun goes down.”
Jim replied, “We should be done in an hour or so. I think were fine even if I dig up the box.”
Suzy replied, “No I think we should do the box in the morning before we go.”
Jim questioned, “Are you sure you know how to hookup all the straps, wooden things with steel rings and stuff? It looks complicated.”
Suzy assured, “What do you think I was taking all the horse classes for. I spent the last three months learning this? The wooden things are called doubletrees and the big Collars are called yokes, and yes I know how to put on every strap and part of the rigging. I told you this was my job. You just had to build the truck, and you did the best job of that ever.”
Jim and Suzy finished loading the wagon and putting on the cover. They ate their dinner and washed up the pot in the creek. Then they put the stuff in the wagon.
Lying on the mattress Suzy questioned, “You ready for tomorrow?”
Jim replied, “To be honest today kind of freaked me out a little. I didn’t see anyone waring guns but us. And you were carrying around the rifle, but no one seemed to notice. Then when you shot it off at the livery it scared the hell out of me. I thought the Sheriff was going to come and put us in jail. I just sucked it up and kept going. I just want you to know this is the adventure of a lifetime even if it is hazardous.”
Suzy informed, “I have to teach you to ride a horse. You won’t be able to do things in these times without that knowledge.”
The next morning Suzy mixed up a pan bread in a cast-iron frying pan, and got a fire going. Getting Jim’s knife she carved off some of the bacon from the smoked and cured side she got. It was over ten dollars a pound but came in a cloth bag, and didn’t need refrigeration. It fit the times.
Jim dug up the money box and Suzy helped him with the springs and mattress. Then Jim backed the truck down in the hole surrounded by trees. Then he took off the battery cables just in case so the battery wouldn’t go dead.
Back at the wagon Suzy had the chairs out, and had turned over the pan bread. Looking at the bread Suzy thought, Not quite like when I practiced it at home on the stove, but we’ll eat.
Jim came back and sat in a chair, as Suzy dumped the bread on a tin plate. Dropping the bacon in the pan she exclaimed, “It will be ready in just a few. The coffee is perking, and we’re just waiting for the bacon.”
After eating Suzy requested, “Jim take the canteen and frying pan to the creek. Fell the canteen and wash the pan. I’ll hitch up the team. Then we can load the money box, and we’ll be on our way.
It was a slow ride over the ruff field to the road, but Jim turned the wagon on to the road and commented, “Made that turn. I think I’m getting the hang of this.”
With the horses at a walk they slowly moved along. That’s when Jim saw the corn field up ahead.
Coming up on Connors corner Jim announced, “Look it’s the corn field it really was on this corner.”
Going around the corner Suzy insisted, “Stop the wagon! Now pull back on the break handle until it locks. Then wrap the reins around the break handle twice. There you just learned how to park the wagon.”
Suzy jump down off the wagon and walked to the edge of the field. Then she yelled. “Look at that little tree Jim. It must grow up to be the tree that killed my mom, dad, and Autum. Let’s chop it down.”
Then the crow landed on Suzy’s head and her eyes rolled back in her head. She fell to the ground lifeless. Then her mother appeared before her, “Oh my dear child how I love you. You’ve work so hard and given up so much to make it here. It saddens me to bring you this news. You have to understand that no one has ever come back from the other side. If you remove what killed us we will just die another way.
I’m sorry about Autum she’s to drained to come to you now. She used up her energy protecting you, and has to regenerate. That’s why I sent the crow to guide and protect you. I’m also sorry to tell you that you can’t go back home. You can stop the curse, but there is no one in that time for it to help. I’m so proud of what you’ve become. Give Jim lots of love he needs it now more than ever. I love you my dear child.”
Then Clara faded away and Suzy slowly opened her eyes. Seeing Jim knelling next to her she started to sob uncontrollably wining, “I ruined everything”
Jim wrapped his arms around her and whispered, “Whenever you need someone to lay your head on I’ll be there for you. Wherever you go, I'll be with you. Whatever you want, I'll give it to you. Whatever it is I’ll do it. Jest let me know. Only love knows why your heart cries. My heart cries here too, but we got each other. Isn’t that what you keep telling me? We got this, you and me girl. Just lean on me and I’ll take you places you could never dream of.”
Suzy just got worse with every word Jim would say. It hurt him so to see her cry. His heart sunk and Jim became saddened by the hurt Suzy was going through.
Then the crow came down and landed next to Suzy. It jumped up on her shoulder and rubbed its head on her face wiping the tears. Jim fell back on his butt staring at the bird in disbelief. Then the crow flew over to Jims shoulder and rubbed its head on his face. Wiping the tears on Jim making him feel all the emotions Suzy was having. Jim filled with, affection, anger, concern, desire, despair, empathy, passion, anguish, grief, regret, and sorrow. It made him so sad he passed out.
Wiping her eyes Suzy moved next to Jim. She called out his name as she shook him. All Suzy’s emotions had put Jim in a trance like state, as her feelings surged through him. His ability to function voluntarily had been suspended. It was as if he was under hypnosis. He could hear Suzy’s voice calling his name but he couldn’t move.
Then the crow started squawking and Jim opened his eyes. Suzy fell on top of Jim as she whispered. “Thank God.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Jim wrapped his arms around Suzy and squeezed her tight. With a tingling rushing through his body Jim assured, “I’ll get the ax and chop it down.”
Suzy insisted, “NO don’t do it Jim. Let’s just get out of here.”
Jim rolled Suzy off him and got to his feet. Then he pulled Suzy up. Taking her hand they walked back to the wagon. Jim helped Suzy up on the wagon and sat next to her. Jim unwound the reins and gave them a light whip. The horses started walking and Jim whispered, “I’m sorry I haven’t been thinking what you must be going through.”
Suzy knew she had to tell Jim that Autum wasn’t coming back. She explained, “I need to tell you something.”
Jim put his finger to Suzy’s lips and went, “Shhh, I know. It’s going to be all right. We got each other, and that is all we need.
Suzy insisted, “But Jim you need to know…”
Jim put his finger back to Suzy’s lips and went, “Shhh, I’ve got all I need right here beside me.”
Suzy leaned her head on Jim’s shoulder and whispered, “Me too.”
It was quiet as Jim thought about Suzy. He thought, “I knew she was a strong woman, but to hold in emotions like that she must be super human. I never thought what it would be like to grow up without a mother or father. She must have been going through hell for years. There is no words to explain what I felt when the crow touched me, but I now understand Suzy. Thanks crow for opening my eyes. I’ve just been thinking about myself.
Then the crow came down and landed on the wagon. It hopped up on the seat next to Suzy. She looked at the bird and whispered, “Thanks Mom.”
Soon they were coming into town. It was about midday when they rolled by the Livery and Black Smith Shop then into town. Jim and Suzy stared at the homes then Businesses as they passed. Trying to take it all in the best they could. Jim pointed at the General Store and Suzy pointed to the Dress Shop. Then they passed the Hardware Store and Saloon and out the other side of town to the Boardinghouse.
Parking the Wagon in the street Jim rapped the reins around the break handle, and then he jumped down. Helping Suzy from the Wagon they walked to the front door. Jim knocked and waited. After some time Suzy whispered, “Maybe you should knock again.”
Just then a man came around the corner of the porch and asked, “Can I help you?”
Jim replied, “We would like to rent a room.”
The man replied, “Miss Tomson is around back. Just follow me.”
They followed the man around the wraparound porch to the back of the house. Sitting in a chair under the covered porch was a woman in her thirties. Her brown hair was up on top of her head in a bun. Her gray dress hung to her ankles. It was covered in the front by a full length dark blue apron. The man explained, “This couple is looking for a room Victoria.”
Looking Jim and Suzy over Victoria saw all their clothes were new, and their guns shined as though they had never been used. Victoria thought, Looks like money just walked in.
Victoria questioned, “You married?”
Jim put his arm around Suzy and exclaimed, “I’m James and this is my wife Suzan White.
Then Victoria questioned, “By the week or the month?”
Jim replied, “By the month if we can.”
Victoria informed, “Its $5 a month for the room and an extra $3 for the extra person. The room comes with breakfast and supper. If you want dinner it’s another dollar a month each for that. I’ll pack it if you’re not going to be here for it. I see you both where guns. That’s fine but it’s not allowed in the house. You’ll half to hang them on one of the pegs here on the back porch, or keep them in your room.”
Getting up from the chair Victoria insisted, “Come with me and I’ll show you a room.”
They followed Victoria in the back door to the kitchen. Then they went across the great room where they saw a well-dressed young man in his early twenty’s. He appeared to be writing a letter at the dining room table. Then Victoria took them down the hall to the first room on the left. Suzy knew this room had the Empire style bed, but not now it had a Cast Iron bed. A stand was against the window with a water pitcher and wash bowl. On the other wall it had an Armoire and a chair.
Suzy questioned, “We have our bed in the wagon. Is it possible for us to use our own bed?”
Victoria replied, “I’ll have Amos put this one in storage. I imagine you have a wagon full of stuff. If you need I can have Amos help you store it in the coach house.”
Suzy elbowed Jim in the side. Jim perked up, “Can I just give you $20 for the first two months?”
Victoria replied, “That would be fine.”
Jim reached in his pocket and pulled out the paper money Suzy gave him. Removing two tens from the top of the stack Jim handed it to Victoria. Pushing the money in her apron pocket Victoria yelled, “Amos!”
Soon the man they first met appeared and Victoria instructed him to put the bed into storage. Then to help Jim unload his wagon into the coach house and there room.
Jim help Amos move the bed to a storage room. The room had all kinds of stuff stored in it from lanterns and coal oil to dried beans. Amos was skinny as could be and most likely in his forties. He was kind of slow both in his thinking and moving, but was as nice as could be.
Walking back through the great room the guy writing the letter spoke up, “You must be moving in, I’m Benjamin. I’ll come give you a hand when I finish here. That is if you want.”
Jim replied, “I’m James, and that would be nice. By the time Jim and Amos got to the coach house Suzy had pulled the wagon around. Jim insisted. I’ll take the cover off first. It will make it easier to unload that way.
Benjamin had finished his letter and was off the side watching. He observed Suzy had taken control and was leading everything. Then he notice how nice their things looked. Everything about them was odd right down to their clothes.
Suzy had taken her dress and covered the money box. Then she piled the rest of their clothes on top of it. With the cover off the wagon, and in the coach house Suzy whispered in Jim’s ear, “The box is under my dress take it to the room.”
Jim picked up the pile of clothes and took them to their room. He put the clothes and box in the Armoire and shut the door. Back at the wagon Amos was helping Benjamin carry the mattress in to the room. Benjamin’s mind raced as he carried the mattress. It didn’t feel like any mattress he had ever seen. Back at the wagon Benjamin recognized the bed as an Empire style. His grandfather had one in England and he knew none had been made for over fifty years. Yet here he was looking at one in perfect condition like it was made yesterday. All kind if thoughts went through Benjamin’s mind.
Jim and Amos returned from taking in the head board. Jim pulled his folding chair from the wagon and sat in it. Wiping the sweat from his head he requested, “Suzy can you get me the canteen?”
Suzy went and got the canteen from the wagon seat and announced, “Break time.” As she pulled the other chair out and sat. Amos sat on the back of the wagon, and Benjamin saw the stack of fabric and went to investigate. Coming from a textiles family Benjamin knew fabrics. He ran his hand a across printed cottons. He inspected the print, and insisted, “I might have made this one. My family owns this print. Where did you get it from?”
Suzy thought, Thank God I studied that when I got it.
Suzy replied, “I special ordered it from England. I want to have a summer dress made from it.”
Enthusiastically Benjamin affirmed, “I knew it. I ran the factory that made that print. You’re lucky Miss Watson the dress maker lives here.”
Amos spoke up, “Yes Mable is nice.”
Suzy said, “We can’t sit here all day Jim.”
Then she went back to the wagon, and handed Jim the fabrics and set the chamber pot on it. Next she gave Benjamin a lamp and a lantern witch he noticed had never been used. Then she had Amos help her with her cooking gear. Jim and Benjamin returned to find the wagon down to the edible provisions.
Suzy looked at Jim and Informed, “I don’t know where to put this stuff. Our meals are provided here and we don’t have room in our room for it.”
Benjamin insisted, “Wait here and I’ll ask Miss Tomson.”
Benjamin ran to the kitchen where Victoria was making Bread Pudding. He informed, “Victoria they have a lot of provisions they don’t know what to do with. I’m sure you could use them. What do you want me to tell them?”
Victoria replied, “Well bring the stuff to the kitchen for land's sake. You know we can use whatever we get.”
So like ants at a picnic a study stream of provisions flowed into the kitchen. Suzy saved the best for last, and came in with the bacon. Handing it to Victoria Suzy confessed, “I cut some off it, but most of it’s there.”
Victoria gave Suzy a hug and announced, “Suzy you’re a blessing. Well get a nice potato soup with some of this.”
Then Victoria yelled, “Amos.”
Benjamin announced, “I’m going to show them where things are.”
Victoria proclaimed, “Thanks Benjamin.”
Then Benjamin took them down to the well about 200 feet behind the house. Then he instructed, “The well has a hand pump and a bucket, and the waters not that far down. Amos uses the bucket all the time. Victoria makes him keep the barrel on the porch full, so you can get water there. You can see the creek from here. The well water leaches off it.”
Then walking back to the bath house Benjamin pointed to the outhouse behind it. Saying, “That’s where you empty your chamber-pot, and this is the bath house. This is where you can wash clothes and take a bath. You have to bucket your own water for that. That’s about it; you know where the dining room is.”
Jim announced, “If Suzy will help me unhitch the horses. I’ll take them to the Livery.”
Benjamin inquired, “You mind if I walk with you?”
Jim replied. “Sure.”
Suzy unhitched the horses and put the gear in the coach house. Then she instructed Jim to leave the reins at the Livery for when they bring the horses back. She told Jim she was going to work on their room. Then Jim led the horses out to the road as Benjamin informed, “The stable master is Henry and he lives here too. If you haven’t figured out Amos yet he works for Miss Tomson for room and board.
Then there’s Emily, she’s the store clerk and works for Hank at the General Store. She’s having an affair with Hank that no one knows about. Hank is a lot older and a widower. Then there’s Rebecca, she’s a news reporter and columnist for the Lambert Times. Don’t tell her anything, or you’ll be reading about it in the paper.
Last is Albert, he’s the Blacksmith and did live at the Blacksmith shop but moved here for the cooked meals, and the town pays for his room.”
Jim questioned, “Why dose the town pay for his room?”
Benjamin replied, “Oh he’s also the town constable. Not that he ever has to do anything, but deal with a drunk once in a while.
Well here we are. “Hay Henry you have a customer.”
Henry came to meet them and questioned, “What do you need?”
Jim replied, “I need to board my team.”
Henry questioned, “By the day, week, or month?”
Jim inquired, “What is it by the week?”
Henry questioned, “Full care or self-care boarding?”
Jim inquired, “How much is self-care boarding?”
Henry replied, “Five dollars per horse a week.”
Jim said, “Oh crap!”
Benjamin explained, “Oh come on Henry he just moved into the house today. You’re going to half to look at him across the table every night.”
Henry replied, “In that case I want an extra five.”
Benjamin grumbled, “Knock it off Henry.”
Henry offered, “If you can come and help me some, and let me rent out your team once in a while. I might be able to cut that in half.”
Jim offered, “I’ll give you ten for the first week, but I’ll have to talk to my wife for more than that.”
Benjamin exclaimed, “Good luck Henry she’s a stick of dynamite.”
Jim gave Henry the ten dollars and handed him the rains. Then they started walking back as Jim announced, “I need to stop and get some coal oil for our lamp.”
Benjamin replied, “Good, you can meet Emily when we get that.”
Jim declared, “Thanks for befriending me Benjamin.”
Benjamin replied, “I needed to get out of the house anyway.”
In the store Benjamin announced, “We need coal oil Emily.”
Emily informed, “That’s 15¢ a gallon and 5¢ for the can. Unless you have a can, but I don’t see one.”
Jim replied, “Nope don’t have one.”
Emily replied, “Then 20¢ it is. I’ll go get that.”
Returning with the can Emily set it at the end of the counter. Then she went to the hand crank register.
Jim put four nickels on the counter, as Benjamin informed, “This is James he moved in with his wife today.”
Emily smiled, “Looking forward to meeting your wife, and seeing you tonight.
On the way back to the house Benjamin revealed, “There’s somethings you need to know. Victoria’s Boardinghouse is a hand to mouth operation. It’s all she can do to keep the doors open. She’s kind of stuck. If she tries to charge more people will leave. It’s just the times. Things are hard right now.
Henry’s in a tuff spot right now too. We had a hell storm two nights ago, and it flattened al the grass hay down. If it don’t stand back up the price will go through the roof. That’s if he can even get it, so that’s got him all stressed out. You didn’t catch him at his best today.”
Back at the Boardinghouse Jim set the coal oil can with the others outside the backdoor. Then he went to his room. The bed was made up and everything was put a way. Suzy was sitting on the bed when Jim walked in and questioned, “How did it go at the stables?”
Jim sat in the chair next to the Armoire and explained, “I don’t think we can afford the horses. It was ten dollars a week and we have to go down and care for them. If we pay that we’ll be out of money in no time.”
Suzy insisted, “NO don’t do it Jim. Let’s just get out of here.”
Jim rolled Suzy off him and got to his feet. Then he pulled Suzy up. Taking her hand they walked back to the wagon. Jim helped Suzy up on the wagon and sat next to her. Jim unwound the reins and gave them a light whip. The horses started walking and Jim whispered, “I’m sorry I haven’t been thinking what you must be going through.”
Suzy knew she had to tell Jim that Autum wasn’t coming back. She explained, “I need to tell you something.”
Jim put his finger to Suzy’s lips and went, “Shhh, I know. It’s going to be all right. We got each other, and that is all we need.
Suzy insisted, “But Jim you need to know…”
Jim put his finger back to Suzy’s lips and went, “Shhh, I’ve got all I need right here beside me.”
Suzy leaned her head on Jim’s shoulder and whispered, “Me too.”
It was quiet as Jim thought about Suzy. He thought, “I knew she was a strong woman, but to hold in emotions like that she must be super human. I never thought what it would be like to grow up without a mother or father. She must have been going through hell for years. There is no words to explain what I felt when the crow touched me, but I now understand Suzy. Thanks crow for opening my eyes. I’ve just been thinking about myself.
Then the crow came down and landed on the wagon. It hopped up on the seat next to Suzy. She looked at the bird and whispered, “Thanks Mom.”
Soon they were coming into town. It was about midday when they rolled by the Livery and Black Smith Shop then into town. Jim and Suzy stared at the homes then Businesses as they passed. Trying to take it all in the best they could. Jim pointed at the General Store and Suzy pointed to the Dress Shop. Then they passed the Hardware Store and Saloon and out the other side of town to the Boardinghouse.Parking the Wagon in the street Jim rapped the reins around the break handle, and then he jumped down. Helping Suzy from the Wagon they walked to the front door. Jim knocked and waited. After some time Suzy whispered, “Maybe you should knock again.”
Just then a man came around the corner of the porch and asked, “Can I help you?”
Jim replied, “We would like to rent a room.”
The man replied, “Miss Tomson is around back. Just follow me.”
They followed the man around the wraparound porch to the back of the house. Sitting in a chair under the covered porch was a woman in her thirties. Her brown hair was up on top of her head in a bun. Her gray dress hung to her ankles. It was covered in the front by a full length dark blue apron. The man explained, “This couple is looking for a room Victoria.”
Looking Jim and Suzy over Victoria saw all their clothes were new, and their guns shined as though they had never been used. Victoria thought, Looks like money just walked in.
Victoria questioned, “You married?”
Jim put his arm around Suzy and exclaimed, “I’m James and this is my wife Suzan White.
Then Victoria questioned, “By the week or the month?”
Jim replied, “By the month if we can.”
Victoria informed, “Its $5 a month for the room and an extra $3 for the extra person. The room comes with breakfast and supper. If you want dinner it’s another dollar a month each for that. I’ll pack it if you’re not going to be here for it. I see you both where guns. That’s fine but it’s not allowed in the house. You’ll half to hang them on one of the pegs here on the back porch, or keep them in your room.”
Getting up from the chair Victoria insisted, “Come with me and I’ll show you a room.”
They followed Victoria in the back door to the kitchen. Then they went across the great room where they saw a well-dressed young man in his early twenty’s. He appeared to be writing a letter at the dining room table. Then Victoria took them down the hall to the first room on the left. Suzy knew this room had the Empire style bed, but not now it had a Cast Iron bed. A stand was against the window with a water pitcher and wash bowl. On the other wall it had an Armoire and a chair.Suzy questioned, “We have our bed in the wagon. Is it possible for us to use our own bed?”
Victoria replied, “I’ll have Amos put this one in storage. I imagine you have a wagon full of stuff. If you need I can have Amos help you store it in the coach house.”
Suzy elbowed Jim in the side. Jim perked up, “Can I just give you $20 for the first two months?”
Victoria replied, “That would be fine.”
Jim reached in his pocket and pulled out the paper money Suzy gave him. Removing two tens from the top of the stack Jim handed it to Victoria. Pushing the money in her apron pocket Victoria yelled, “Amos!”
Soon the man they first met appeared and Victoria instructed him to put the bed into storage. Then to help Jim unload his wagon into the coach house and there room.
Jim help Amos move the bed to a storage room. The room had all kinds of stuff stored in it from lanterns and coal oil to dried beans. Amos was skinny as could be and most likely in his forties. He was kind of slow both in his thinking and moving, but was as nice as could be.
Walking back through the great room the guy writing the letter spoke up, “You must be moving in, I’m Benjamin. I’ll come give you a hand when I finish here. That is if you want.”
Jim replied, “I’m James, and that would be nice. By the time Jim and Amos got to the coach house Suzy had pulled the wagon around. Jim insisted. I’ll take the cover off first. It will make it easier to unload that way.
Benjamin had finished his letter and was off the side watching. He observed Suzy had taken control and was leading everything. Then he notice how nice their things looked. Everything about them was odd right down to their clothes.
Suzy had taken her dress and covered the money box. Then she piled the rest of their clothes on top of it. With the cover off the wagon, and in the coach house Suzy whispered in Jim’s ear, “The box is under my dress take it to the room.”
Jim picked up the pile of clothes and took them to their room. He put the clothes and box in the Armoire and shut the door. Back at the wagon Amos was helping Benjamin carry the mattress in to the room. Benjamin’s mind raced as he carried the mattress. It didn’t feel like any mattress he had ever seen. Back at the wagon Benjamin recognized the bed as an Empire style. His grandfather had one in England and he knew none had been made for over fifty years. Yet here he was looking at one in perfect condition like it was made yesterday. All kind if thoughts went through Benjamin’s mind.
Jim and Amos returned from taking in the head board. Jim pulled his folding chair from the wagon and sat in it. Wiping the sweat from his head he requested, “Suzy can you get me the canteen?”
Suzy went and got the canteen from the wagon seat and announced, “Break time.” As she pulled the other chair out and sat. Amos sat on the back of the wagon, and Benjamin saw the stack of fabric and went to investigate. Coming from a textiles family Benjamin knew fabrics. He ran his hand a across printed cottons. He inspected the print, and insisted, “I might have made this one. My family owns this print. Where did you get it from?”
Suzy thought, Thank God I studied that when I got it.
Suzy replied, “I special ordered it from England. I want to have a summer dress made from it.”
Enthusiastically Benjamin affirmed, “I knew it. I ran the factory that made that print. You’re lucky Miss Watson the dress maker lives here.”
Amos spoke up, “Yes Mable is nice.”
Suzy said, “We can’t sit here all day Jim.”
Then she went back to the wagon, and handed Jim the fabrics and set the chamber pot on it. Next she gave Benjamin a lamp and a lantern witch he noticed had never been used. Then she had Amos help her with her cooking gear. Jim and Benjamin returned to find the wagon down to the edible provisions.
Suzy looked at Jim and Informed, “I don’t know where to put this stuff. Our meals are provided here and we don’t have room in our room for it.”
Benjamin insisted, “Wait here and I’ll ask Miss Tomson.”
Benjamin ran to the kitchen where Victoria was making Bread Pudding. He informed, “Victoria they have a lot of provisions they don’t know what to do with. I’m sure you could use them. What do you want me to tell them?”
Victoria replied, “Well bring the stuff to the kitchen for land's sake. You know we can use whatever we get.”
So like ants at a picnic a study stream of provisions flowed into the kitchen. Suzy saved the best for last, and came in with the bacon. Handing it to Victoria Suzy confessed, “I cut some off it, but most of it’s there.”
Victoria gave Suzy a hug and announced, “Suzy you’re a blessing. Well get a nice potato soup with some of this.”
Then Victoria yelled, “Amos.”
Benjamin announced, “I’m going to show them where things are.”
Victoria proclaimed, “Thanks Benjamin.”
Then Benjamin took them down to the well about 200 feet behind the house. Then he instructed, “The well has a hand pump and a bucket, and the waters not that far down. Amos uses the bucket all the time. Victoria makes him keep the barrel on the porch full, so you can get water there. You can see the creek from here. The well water leaches off it.”
Then walking back to the bath house Benjamin pointed to the outhouse behind it. Saying, “That’s where you empty your chamber-pot, and this is the bath house. This is where you can wash clothes and take a bath. You have to bucket your own water for that. That’s about it; you know where the dining room is.”
Jim announced, “If Suzy will help me unhitch the horses. I’ll take them to the Livery.”
Benjamin inquired, “You mind if I walk with you?”
Jim replied. “Sure.”
Suzy unhitched the horses and put the gear in the coach house. Then she instructed Jim to leave the reins at the Livery for when they bring the horses back. She told Jim she was going to work on their room. Then Jim led the horses out to the road as Benjamin informed, “The stable master is Henry and he lives here too. If you haven’t figured out Amos yet he works for Miss Tomson for room and board.
Then there’s Emily, she’s the store clerk and works for Hank at the General Store. She’s having an affair with Hank that no one knows about. Hank is a lot older and a widower. Then there’s Rebecca, she’s a news reporter and columnist for the Lambert Times. Don’t tell her anything, or you’ll be reading about it in the paper.
Last is Albert, he’s the Blacksmith and did live at the Blacksmith shop but moved here for the cooked meals, and the town pays for his room.”
Jim questioned, “Why dose the town pay for his room?”
Benjamin replied, “Oh he’s also the town constable. Not that he ever has to do anything, but deal with a drunk once in a while.
Well here we are. “Hay Henry you have a customer.”
Henry came to meet them and questioned, “What do you need?”
Jim replied, “I need to board my team.”
Henry questioned, “By the day, week, or month?”
Jim inquired, “What is it by the week?”
Henry questioned, “Full care or self-care boarding?”
Jim inquired, “How much is self-care boarding?”
Henry replied, “Five dollars per horse a week.”
Jim said, “Oh crap!”
Benjamin explained, “Oh come on Henry he just moved into the house today. You’re going to half to look at him across the table every night.”
Henry replied, “In that case I want an extra five.”
Benjamin grumbled, “Knock it off Henry.”
Henry offered, “If you can come and help me some, and let me rent out your team once in a while. I might be able to cut that in half.”
Jim offered, “I’ll give you ten for the first week, but I’ll have to talk to my wife for more than that.”
Benjamin exclaimed, “Good luck Henry she’s a stick of dynamite.”
Jim gave Henry the ten dollars and handed him the rains. Then they started walking back as Jim announced, “I need to stop and get some coal oil for our lamp.”
Benjamin replied, “Good, you can meet Emily when we get that.”
Jim declared, “Thanks for befriending me Benjamin.”
Benjamin replied, “I needed to get out of the house anyway.”
In the store Benjamin announced, “We need coal oil Emily.”
Emily informed, “That’s 15¢ a gallon and 5¢ for the can. Unless you have a can, but I don’t see one.”
Jim replied, “Nope don’t have one.”
Emily replied, “Then 20¢ it is. I’ll go get that.”
Returning with the can Emily set it at the end of the counter. Then she went to the hand crank register.
Jim put four nickels on the counter, as Benjamin informed, “This is James he moved in with his wife today.”
Emily smiled, “Looking forward to meeting your wife, and seeing you tonight.
On the way back to the house Benjamin revealed, “There’s somethings you need to know. Victoria’s Boardinghouse is a hand to mouth operation. It’s all she can do to keep the doors open. She’s kind of stuck. If she tries to charge more people will leave. It’s just the times. Things are hard right now.
Henry’s in a tuff spot right now too. We had a hell storm two nights ago, and it flattened al the grass hay down. If it don’t stand back up the price will go through the roof. That’s if he can even get it, so that’s got him all stressed out. You didn’t catch him at his best today.”
Back at the Boardinghouse Jim set the coal oil can with the others outside the backdoor. Then he went to his room. The bed was made up and everything was put a way. Suzy was sitting on the bed when Jim walked in and questioned, “How did it go at the stables?”
Jim sat in the chair next to the Armoire and explained, “I don’t think we can afford the horses. It was ten dollars a week and we have to go down and care for them. If we pay that we’ll be out of money in no time.”
Last edited:
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Suzy replied, “I was afraid of that. We need to find a place to pasture them. We should be able to get that for about five dollars a month.”
Patting on the bed Suzy insisted come sit over here. I have something I have to tell you. Jim moved over to the bed and spoke softly, “You don’t need to tell me. I already know from the crow. I just wish I could take it from you. I’m not as strong as you, and I could never bear what you’re going through.”
Suzy insisted, “But Jim…”
Jim put his finger to Suzy’s lips and went, “Shhh…”
Then Jim got up and walked to the door and opened it. So Suzy couldn’t tell him. He didn’t want her to go through that hurt again. Turning back he said, “I’m going to go out and sit in my chair on the porch.”
Jim sat on the porch looking at his and Suzy’s Peace Makers hanging on the peg. It was so quiet Jim couldn’t stop thinking about everything. Then Suzy came and sat next to him, she whispered, “Its quiet here.”
Unknown to them Benjamin was just inside the backdoor watching Victoria cooking, and listening to them.
Jim replied, “I know, I’m use to the radio being on in the shop. I never turned it off I just left it on day and night. There was always some kind of noise the air compressor, an air ratchet, the drill, it was always something. Even at night you’d talk to me. Now when I drive the wagon the only sound is the horses. I’m use to my old truck with all the squeaks, knocks, rattles, and. the roar of the engine. There’s none of that here.”
Suzy argued, “I know I couldn’t stop things from going through my head in the room. I thought about everything cleaning up the room. Now I am getting board. I know it’s only been a few minutes, but I always have had something going on.”
Jim informed, “I saw a newspaper on the table maybe I could read some of it to you. It would pass the time.
Suzy agreed, “Let’s do that.”
Benjamin slipped away from the door, and moved to the table.
They sat at the table next to each other, and Benjamin was down at the far end of the table. Jim picked up the newspaper and commented, “Oh look we can get a carriage $49.95. Here yah go BLUINE A 10-cent package will blue the laundry of the average family for four months.”
Suzy elbowed Jim and insisted, “James knock it off!”
With that Jim picked a story, “New Typewriter to hit the Market
Following a demonstration at Remington's offices in New York, the company contracted on March 1, 1873, to manufacture 1,000 machines, with the option to produce an additional 24,000 Although the agreement required Densmore to give Remington $10,000 and royalty rights, a marketing firm to be formed by Densmore and Yost was allowed to serve as the exclusive sales agent. Remington dedicated a wing of its factory to the typewriter, and spent several months retooling and re-engineering the device; production began in September. The machine will enter the market on July 1, 1874. Typewriter production will be largely overseen by Jefferson Clough and William K. Jenne, manager of Remington's sewing machine division. The redesigned machine was sturdier and more reliable than Sholes' model, but it had taken on some of the characteristics of a sewing machine, including a japanned case with floral ornamentation and a stand with a treadle to operate the carriage return.”
Suzy exclaimed, “Wow, I didn’t know Remington made a sewing machine. I thought I heard Singer made then in New York.”
Benjamin spoke up, “Your right Suzan, Singers are made in New York, and my dad has quit a few of them. They coast like $300 each. He uses them for his clothing line.”
Just then Albert came in. He was a big muscle bond man with short brown hair and a mustache. Seeing Jim and Suzy Albert question, “Who do we have here?”
Benjamin informed, “This is Mr. and Mrs. White. They moved in today.”
Jim stood up and offered his hand, “I’m James and this is my wife Suzan, Pleased to meet you.”
Taking Jim’s hand Albert apologized, “I’m sorry I’m Albert the town blacksmith. Is that your wagon out there?”
Jim questioned, “Yah is there a problem?”
Albert revealed, “Oh no. I was just looking it over. The blacksmith that did the work for that wagon was good. His eye for detail is almost unbelievable. That has to be the best I’ve ever seen. The carpentry matches the same standers. You have a top line rig out there.”
Suzy spoke up, “Why thank you Albert. I do have a job for you though. One of our horses has a loose shoe, and the other one need’s to have its hooves trimmed and new shoes. There down at the Livery, and you can pick them up anytime.”
Albert replied, “I’ll take a look at them tomorrow. I need to get cleaned up right now.”
Albert went to his room, and Benjamin informed, “Albert gets five dollars to trim and shoe if he can use the old shoes. Maybe a little more if he has to rework them. If you want news shoes I’m not sure,”
Suzy assured, “That sounds fair.”
Victoria spoke up, “If he doesn’t give you a good deal sweetie. You just let me know. I’ll burn his pancakes.”
Benjamin laughed, “She’d do it too.”
Victoria announced, “Mind your manners the dress maker is home.”
Benjamin looked at Suzy and whispered, “This is the one you want to make your dress.”
A tall slender woman stepped in the door. She had long blond hair, and was wearing a violet dress with long sleeves. It had purple lace around the sleeves, neck, middle, and just up from the bottom. There was a purple belt around the waist that tied in a bow in the back.
Seeing her come in Benjamin announced, “Good evening Miss. Watson.”
Mable, replied, “I keep telling you Mr. Belvedere its Mable. I’ll change and be right back down.” Then she looked at Suzy and Jim as she smiled and said. “Hi,” as she walked away.
Victoria set a stack of bowls on the table and Benjamin announced, “That’s our clue it’s time to leave.”
With that Jim and Suzy moved out to their chairs on the porch. Benjamin followed and sat on a bench along the wall next to Victoria’s chair. Then Albert appeared and sat next to Benjamin commenting, “Looks like stew again.”
Benjamin informed, “Not just stew it has beef in it.”
Albert questioned, “How did that happen?”
Benjamin replied, “Suzan had it in her supplies and donated it.”
Albert declared, “Why thank you Suzan. Guess I’ll have to forgive you for hanging your gun on my peg.”
Looking up at Albert’s gun Jim apologized, “I’m sorry we didn’t know.”
Albert continued, “It’s all right I just hung mine on the other side. I saw you and Benjamin pass the shop with your team today. I didn’t see you waring a gun then.”
Jim explained, “When we got here Victoria told us we couldn’t wear them in the house and to hang them on the peg. I just left it there all day.”
Albert continued, “I could never do that. Walking around without my gun wouldn’t feel right. It would be like walking around without my pants on.”
Looking up Albert announced, “Why Henry we were just talking about you, but we’ll stop now.”
Looking over at Jim Henry nodded and questioned, “That your wagon out there?”
Jim replied, “Yep, is it a problem?”
Henry Joked, “Yah I should have charged you twenty. That thing has money written all over it.”
Jim had to think fast, but Suzy blurted, “It sure dose! That’s why we have to watch every penny because of his pampas ass and that wagon. He tells me, but I can use it to make money.”
Suzy stormed to her room. Henry apologized, Sorry about that James. I was going to ask you about doing some hay hulling for boarding. I guess we can talk about that later.”
Jim assured, “It’s all good Henry. She’ll forget about it in about ten years. I better go see if I can get in more trouble.”
Benjamin snickered, “I warned you Henry. I said she was a stick of dynamite.”
Albert commented, “Something doesn’t feel right about this. Brand new wagon, clothes, guns, and look at the leather on their holsters. Not a mark on them it looks like money to me.”
Benjamin insisted, “I’ve been with James all day. I watched him unload their wagon and everything is new. I mean everything except the chamber-pot and quilt. James don’t act like he’s rich, and the only rich people in this town are Hank and Albert.”
Albert remarked, “Yah right.”
Benjamin went on, “What I think is they lost everything. Maybe a fire burned them out. They had to sale their land. Then got all new stuff and are starting over. James tells me there from Texas, but we all know that wagon never made a trip like that. He also told me he was a cattle man, but I think he was a farmer. He knows a lot about that if you talk to him. He told me it’s early in the growing season, and he thinks the grass will be just fine. He also told me the rain primed the ground and the hell melted slowly. This made the water go more into the ground, and not runoff putting more water in the ground.”
Henry agreed, “Now that sounds like a farmer. Maybe they had crop failures and were forced to sale their land, and used their money to start over.”
Albert noted, “That all sounds possible. One thing is for sure we’ll all know in time. You can’t live with people and not learn something.”
Emily came around the corner and scolded, “You guy’s should be ashamed of your self’s. Out here gossiping about the new people. You’re worse than a bunch of old ladies at a tea party.”
Benjamin announced, “Good evening Miss. Johnson.”
Looking at Benjamin Emily hissed, “You probably started this whole thing.”
Then she went in the back door. Leaning against a porch post Henry could see Emily in the kitchen. Emily was looking in a pot on the stove talking to Victoria.
Henry informed, “She’s in the kitchen talking to Victoria. She’s probably telling Victoria about us right now. Crap she will probably burn one of my pancakes tomorrow.”
Benjamin snickered, “No I think it will be me this time.”
Suzy was lying on the bed when Jim came in and sat in the chair. Looking at Jim she questioned, “You think they bought my acting Job?”
Jim replied. If you want them to think you’re a bitch. I think you succeeded”
Suzy gasped, “No that we don’t have a lot of money silly.”
Jim replied, “You know it. Now they most likely think I’m a jerk, and spent all of our money on stupid stuff.”
Suzy snickered, “Good, you deserve it for spending all of our money on that wagon. How could you do that?”
Jim smartly replied, “Well I might have a job hulling hay for Henry. He asked me after you left. I don’t know if it was because he felt sorry for me, or because of the wagon. I don’t care right now.”
Suzy demanded, “Come over here and lay next to me. Now you see why we had to have a wagon. In this time a wagon is like owning a semi-truck. You can use it to make money. If we just had saddles and got horses we couldn’t have that option, and you wouldn’t be lying in this soft bed.”
Just then there was a knock at the door, and Albert’s voice rang out, “Food.”
Jim and Suzy came in to see everyone at the table, there was two chairs next to each other on the far side of the table. Jim and Suzy took their seats, as Victoria came and set a big pot on the table.
Then Victoria announced, “This is Mr. and Mrs. White. They are our new occupants. You might want to introduce yourself.”
They started going around the table saying who they were, I’m Mable Watson, and everyone knows me as the Seamstress, I’m Albert Blocker the Black Smith, Emily Johnson the store clerk, I’m Henry Zimmerman, I’m Benjamin Belvedere, and I’m Rebecca Hill the one no one talks to, because I’m the news reporter. I have a column in the Lambert Times.
Then Jim said, “I’m James and this is my wife Suzan,”
After that Benjamin stood and announced, “I’ll pray, Father we thank you for the food, a roof over our head, and Victoria. I give special thanks for sending us the White’s. Amen. Let’s eat.”
Mable took a dipper of the stew and put it in her bowl. Then Benjamin did the same and took a slice of bread. Then Benjamin pushed the pot and bread plate down the table. They did this until the pot was at the other end of the table by Henry and Rebecca.
After everyone had their fill Amos came and cleared the table. Everyone sat at the table and talked about their day. Then Amos laid out the dessert plates and Victoria set the bread pudding on the table with a serving spoon.
Then after everyone had some of the pudding Benjamin read out of the newspaper. He read the same article that Jim read to Suzy. Then told about his dad’s clothing line, and how he had ten singer sewing machines that cost $300 a peace. That he paid to have people run then around the clock making clothes. Then one by one each of them started drifting off to their room or outside,
Jim and Suzy went out to their chairs on the porch. There they found Henry enjoying a pipe. Looking up he announced, “Victoria doesn’t like smoking inside, so I come out here. There’s nothing like a good smoke before bed.”
Soon it was getting dark and Suzy questioned, “Did you fill the lamp.”
Jim replied, “Oh crap the can is over there.”
Albert insisted, “You best be getting the lamp James.”
Jim ran in the house and got the lamp from his room. Removing the glass chimney and screwing off the top Jim poured in the oil.”
Albert instructed, “Looks like a new lamp. Don’t forget to crank out the wick and prime it.”
Jim replied, “Oh yah, Thanks.”
Jim cranked out the wick turn it upside down and dipped it in the lamp. Then he turned it over and screwed it on. Albert lit a match and lit the lamp. The lamp flame shot up and Jim turned it down and put on the chimney. Then Jim and Suzy went to their room.
There were lying in bed and Suzy explained, “I don’t know what to do now. Everything has changed. All the hopes and desire I gave you were wrong. None of it is going to happen now.”
Jim sat up and insisted, “You stop right now! I told you I knew. The crow told me everything. We’re stuck here and can’t change a thing. There is that what you wanted to tell me. I’m sorry I got you into this, but we’re here and there is nothing we can do about it. I told you I’d be there for you. Wherever you go, I'll be with you. Whatever you want, I'll give it to you. Whatever it is I’ll do it. Jest let me know. I mean that with all my heart. I just wish I could take your sorrow away. All I can do is hold you and share it with you.”
A tear ran down Suzy’s face as she whimpered, “That’s all I need to know James. I love you too. We got this.”
Jim whispered, “We got each other,”
Patting on the bed Suzy insisted come sit over here. I have something I have to tell you. Jim moved over to the bed and spoke softly, “You don’t need to tell me. I already know from the crow. I just wish I could take it from you. I’m not as strong as you, and I could never bear what you’re going through.”
Suzy insisted, “But Jim…”
Jim put his finger to Suzy’s lips and went, “Shhh…”
Then Jim got up and walked to the door and opened it. So Suzy couldn’t tell him. He didn’t want her to go through that hurt again. Turning back he said, “I’m going to go out and sit in my chair on the porch.”
Jim sat on the porch looking at his and Suzy’s Peace Makers hanging on the peg. It was so quiet Jim couldn’t stop thinking about everything. Then Suzy came and sat next to him, she whispered, “Its quiet here.”
Unknown to them Benjamin was just inside the backdoor watching Victoria cooking, and listening to them.
Jim replied, “I know, I’m use to the radio being on in the shop. I never turned it off I just left it on day and night. There was always some kind of noise the air compressor, an air ratchet, the drill, it was always something. Even at night you’d talk to me. Now when I drive the wagon the only sound is the horses. I’m use to my old truck with all the squeaks, knocks, rattles, and. the roar of the engine. There’s none of that here.”
Suzy argued, “I know I couldn’t stop things from going through my head in the room. I thought about everything cleaning up the room. Now I am getting board. I know it’s only been a few minutes, but I always have had something going on.”
Jim informed, “I saw a newspaper on the table maybe I could read some of it to you. It would pass the time.
Suzy agreed, “Let’s do that.”
Benjamin slipped away from the door, and moved to the table.
They sat at the table next to each other, and Benjamin was down at the far end of the table. Jim picked up the newspaper and commented, “Oh look we can get a carriage $49.95. Here yah go BLUINE A 10-cent package will blue the laundry of the average family for four months.”
Suzy elbowed Jim and insisted, “James knock it off!”
With that Jim picked a story, “New Typewriter to hit the Market
Following a demonstration at Remington's offices in New York, the company contracted on March 1, 1873, to manufacture 1,000 machines, with the option to produce an additional 24,000 Although the agreement required Densmore to give Remington $10,000 and royalty rights, a marketing firm to be formed by Densmore and Yost was allowed to serve as the exclusive sales agent. Remington dedicated a wing of its factory to the typewriter, and spent several months retooling and re-engineering the device; production began in September. The machine will enter the market on July 1, 1874. Typewriter production will be largely overseen by Jefferson Clough and William K. Jenne, manager of Remington's sewing machine division. The redesigned machine was sturdier and more reliable than Sholes' model, but it had taken on some of the characteristics of a sewing machine, including a japanned case with floral ornamentation and a stand with a treadle to operate the carriage return.”
Suzy exclaimed, “Wow, I didn’t know Remington made a sewing machine. I thought I heard Singer made then in New York.”
Benjamin spoke up, “Your right Suzan, Singers are made in New York, and my dad has quit a few of them. They coast like $300 each. He uses them for his clothing line.”
Just then Albert came in. He was a big muscle bond man with short brown hair and a mustache. Seeing Jim and Suzy Albert question, “Who do we have here?”
Benjamin informed, “This is Mr. and Mrs. White. They moved in today.”
Jim stood up and offered his hand, “I’m James and this is my wife Suzan, Pleased to meet you.”
Taking Jim’s hand Albert apologized, “I’m sorry I’m Albert the town blacksmith. Is that your wagon out there?”
Jim questioned, “Yah is there a problem?”
Albert revealed, “Oh no. I was just looking it over. The blacksmith that did the work for that wagon was good. His eye for detail is almost unbelievable. That has to be the best I’ve ever seen. The carpentry matches the same standers. You have a top line rig out there.”
Suzy spoke up, “Why thank you Albert. I do have a job for you though. One of our horses has a loose shoe, and the other one need’s to have its hooves trimmed and new shoes. There down at the Livery, and you can pick them up anytime.”
Albert replied, “I’ll take a look at them tomorrow. I need to get cleaned up right now.”
Albert went to his room, and Benjamin informed, “Albert gets five dollars to trim and shoe if he can use the old shoes. Maybe a little more if he has to rework them. If you want news shoes I’m not sure,”
Suzy assured, “That sounds fair.”
Victoria spoke up, “If he doesn’t give you a good deal sweetie. You just let me know. I’ll burn his pancakes.”
Benjamin laughed, “She’d do it too.”
Victoria announced, “Mind your manners the dress maker is home.”
Benjamin looked at Suzy and whispered, “This is the one you want to make your dress.”
A tall slender woman stepped in the door. She had long blond hair, and was wearing a violet dress with long sleeves. It had purple lace around the sleeves, neck, middle, and just up from the bottom. There was a purple belt around the waist that tied in a bow in the back.
Seeing her come in Benjamin announced, “Good evening Miss. Watson.”
Mable, replied, “I keep telling you Mr. Belvedere its Mable. I’ll change and be right back down.” Then she looked at Suzy and Jim as she smiled and said. “Hi,” as she walked away.
Victoria set a stack of bowls on the table and Benjamin announced, “That’s our clue it’s time to leave.”
With that Jim and Suzy moved out to their chairs on the porch. Benjamin followed and sat on a bench along the wall next to Victoria’s chair. Then Albert appeared and sat next to Benjamin commenting, “Looks like stew again.”
Benjamin informed, “Not just stew it has beef in it.”
Albert questioned, “How did that happen?”
Benjamin replied, “Suzan had it in her supplies and donated it.”
Albert declared, “Why thank you Suzan. Guess I’ll have to forgive you for hanging your gun on my peg.”
Looking up at Albert’s gun Jim apologized, “I’m sorry we didn’t know.”
Albert continued, “It’s all right I just hung mine on the other side. I saw you and Benjamin pass the shop with your team today. I didn’t see you waring a gun then.”
Jim explained, “When we got here Victoria told us we couldn’t wear them in the house and to hang them on the peg. I just left it there all day.”
Albert continued, “I could never do that. Walking around without my gun wouldn’t feel right. It would be like walking around without my pants on.”
Looking up Albert announced, “Why Henry we were just talking about you, but we’ll stop now.”
Looking over at Jim Henry nodded and questioned, “That your wagon out there?”
Jim replied, “Yep, is it a problem?”
Henry Joked, “Yah I should have charged you twenty. That thing has money written all over it.”
Jim had to think fast, but Suzy blurted, “It sure dose! That’s why we have to watch every penny because of his pampas ass and that wagon. He tells me, but I can use it to make money.”
Suzy stormed to her room. Henry apologized, Sorry about that James. I was going to ask you about doing some hay hulling for boarding. I guess we can talk about that later.”
Jim assured, “It’s all good Henry. She’ll forget about it in about ten years. I better go see if I can get in more trouble.”
Benjamin snickered, “I warned you Henry. I said she was a stick of dynamite.”
Albert commented, “Something doesn’t feel right about this. Brand new wagon, clothes, guns, and look at the leather on their holsters. Not a mark on them it looks like money to me.”
Benjamin insisted, “I’ve been with James all day. I watched him unload their wagon and everything is new. I mean everything except the chamber-pot and quilt. James don’t act like he’s rich, and the only rich people in this town are Hank and Albert.”
Albert remarked, “Yah right.”
Benjamin went on, “What I think is they lost everything. Maybe a fire burned them out. They had to sale their land. Then got all new stuff and are starting over. James tells me there from Texas, but we all know that wagon never made a trip like that. He also told me he was a cattle man, but I think he was a farmer. He knows a lot about that if you talk to him. He told me it’s early in the growing season, and he thinks the grass will be just fine. He also told me the rain primed the ground and the hell melted slowly. This made the water go more into the ground, and not runoff putting more water in the ground.”
Henry agreed, “Now that sounds like a farmer. Maybe they had crop failures and were forced to sale their land, and used their money to start over.”
Albert noted, “That all sounds possible. One thing is for sure we’ll all know in time. You can’t live with people and not learn something.”
Emily came around the corner and scolded, “You guy’s should be ashamed of your self’s. Out here gossiping about the new people. You’re worse than a bunch of old ladies at a tea party.”
Benjamin announced, “Good evening Miss. Johnson.”
Looking at Benjamin Emily hissed, “You probably started this whole thing.”
Then she went in the back door. Leaning against a porch post Henry could see Emily in the kitchen. Emily was looking in a pot on the stove talking to Victoria.
Henry informed, “She’s in the kitchen talking to Victoria. She’s probably telling Victoria about us right now. Crap she will probably burn one of my pancakes tomorrow.”
Benjamin snickered, “No I think it will be me this time.”
Suzy was lying on the bed when Jim came in and sat in the chair. Looking at Jim she questioned, “You think they bought my acting Job?”
Jim replied. If you want them to think you’re a bitch. I think you succeeded”
Suzy gasped, “No that we don’t have a lot of money silly.”
Jim replied, “You know it. Now they most likely think I’m a jerk, and spent all of our money on stupid stuff.”
Suzy snickered, “Good, you deserve it for spending all of our money on that wagon. How could you do that?”
Jim smartly replied, “Well I might have a job hulling hay for Henry. He asked me after you left. I don’t know if it was because he felt sorry for me, or because of the wagon. I don’t care right now.”
Suzy demanded, “Come over here and lay next to me. Now you see why we had to have a wagon. In this time a wagon is like owning a semi-truck. You can use it to make money. If we just had saddles and got horses we couldn’t have that option, and you wouldn’t be lying in this soft bed.”
Just then there was a knock at the door, and Albert’s voice rang out, “Food.”
Jim and Suzy came in to see everyone at the table, there was two chairs next to each other on the far side of the table. Jim and Suzy took their seats, as Victoria came and set a big pot on the table.
Then Victoria announced, “This is Mr. and Mrs. White. They are our new occupants. You might want to introduce yourself.”
They started going around the table saying who they were, I’m Mable Watson, and everyone knows me as the Seamstress, I’m Albert Blocker the Black Smith, Emily Johnson the store clerk, I’m Henry Zimmerman, I’m Benjamin Belvedere, and I’m Rebecca Hill the one no one talks to, because I’m the news reporter. I have a column in the Lambert Times.
Then Jim said, “I’m James and this is my wife Suzan,”
After that Benjamin stood and announced, “I’ll pray, Father we thank you for the food, a roof over our head, and Victoria. I give special thanks for sending us the White’s. Amen. Let’s eat.”
Mable took a dipper of the stew and put it in her bowl. Then Benjamin did the same and took a slice of bread. Then Benjamin pushed the pot and bread plate down the table. They did this until the pot was at the other end of the table by Henry and Rebecca.
After everyone had their fill Amos came and cleared the table. Everyone sat at the table and talked about their day. Then Amos laid out the dessert plates and Victoria set the bread pudding on the table with a serving spoon.
Then after everyone had some of the pudding Benjamin read out of the newspaper. He read the same article that Jim read to Suzy. Then told about his dad’s clothing line, and how he had ten singer sewing machines that cost $300 a peace. That he paid to have people run then around the clock making clothes. Then one by one each of them started drifting off to their room or outside,
Jim and Suzy went out to their chairs on the porch. There they found Henry enjoying a pipe. Looking up he announced, “Victoria doesn’t like smoking inside, so I come out here. There’s nothing like a good smoke before bed.”
Soon it was getting dark and Suzy questioned, “Did you fill the lamp.”
Jim replied, “Oh crap the can is over there.”
Albert insisted, “You best be getting the lamp James.”
Jim ran in the house and got the lamp from his room. Removing the glass chimney and screwing off the top Jim poured in the oil.”
Albert instructed, “Looks like a new lamp. Don’t forget to crank out the wick and prime it.”
Jim replied, “Oh yah, Thanks.”
Jim cranked out the wick turn it upside down and dipped it in the lamp. Then he turned it over and screwed it on. Albert lit a match and lit the lamp. The lamp flame shot up and Jim turned it down and put on the chimney. Then Jim and Suzy went to their room.
There were lying in bed and Suzy explained, “I don’t know what to do now. Everything has changed. All the hopes and desire I gave you were wrong. None of it is going to happen now.”
Jim sat up and insisted, “You stop right now! I told you I knew. The crow told me everything. We’re stuck here and can’t change a thing. There is that what you wanted to tell me. I’m sorry I got you into this, but we’re here and there is nothing we can do about it. I told you I’d be there for you. Wherever you go, I'll be with you. Whatever you want, I'll give it to you. Whatever it is I’ll do it. Jest let me know. I mean that with all my heart. I just wish I could take your sorrow away. All I can do is hold you and share it with you.”
A tear ran down Suzy’s face as she whimpered, “That’s all I need to know James. I love you too. We got this.”
Jim whispered, “We got each other,”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Eleven – To Save a Boy
About four in the morning Suzy was hearing some noises and went to investigate. She slipped her peace maker from its holster on the chair, and cracked open the door. Peking down the hall she saw a light in the darkness coming from the kitchen. She slipped along the wall until she could see Victoria. With a sigh of relief she went back to her room. Putting her peace maker back she slipped into bed. Jim questioned, “Is everything all right?”
Suze whispered, “It’s just Victoria in the kitchen. She’s starting the fire in the wood stove.”
Jim Mumbled, “Oh.”
After a few minutes Suzy thought, Oh crap I can’t get back to sleep.
She got up and got dressed, and went out to the outhouse. Then to the kitchen where Victoria apologized, “I’m sorry sweetie did I wake you? I know your room is next to the kitchen, and you hear everything.”
Suzy replied, “Its fine I had to get up and go anyway.”
Victoria offered, “If you want you can go out to the barrel and fill that coffee pot with water. Just dip it down there and fill it up. I’ll dump the extra in the water pitcher. If Mr. Zimmerman doesn’t get his coffee you can’t stand to be in the same house with him.”
Suzy took the pot and headed out the door. She returned with the pot, and handed it to Victoria. She took the pot and pored some out into the pitcher. Then she put the basket in and put on the lid. She placed it on the stove as she pointed to a shelf and asked, “Suzan would you get me the bread pan’s from up there.”
Suzy got the pans as Victoria went on. “I have to make bread every morning before Miss. Watson gets up. She loves her tea and toast. Most mornings I make pancakes, but now that we have some bacon I’ll make biscuits and gravy. I’ll cook some of the bacon and use the grease to make gravy. Then chop the cooked bacon into small pieces and add it to the gravy.”
Suzy hung out in the kitchen with Victoria as she made two loafs of bread, two dozen biscuits, the gravy, and started a pot of potato soup. Then when Miss Watson came to the table Suzy went and sat across from her, and asked, “Think you could make me a summer dress. The only one I have is too heavy for summer.”
Mable replied, “I just thought you dressed like that all the time.”
Suzy replied, “I do, but not on Sunday. I can’t go to church waring this.”
Mable agreed, “Sure I can do it. Just come down to the dress shop and we’ll see what we can do.”
Victoria announced, “I’m putting your toast in the pan now Mable.”
Soon Albert came to the table announcing, “Morning ladies.”
Victoria set the toast and biscuits on the table. Then she informed, “I’ll get the Jam and gravy.”
Suzy slipped from the table and went to her room. Opening the door Suzy announced, “Tine to get up sleepy head.”
Rubbing his eyes Jim disclosed, “I slept good last night. It must be because it gets so quiet in here after dark.”
Suzy replied, “The food is on the table, and People are showing up.
Suzy informed, “I’ll take our guns and hang them on the peg.”
Jim blurted, “Don’t use Albert’s peg this time.”
Going out the door Suzy replied, “Got it.”
At breakfast that morning Victoria asked, “Benjamin would you try to hunt some meat for the house.”
Benjamin replied, “Sure if I can get James to take me in his wagon.”
From across the table Suzy replied, “I’ll go to the stables and get the horses.”
Suzy jumped up from the table, and Jim exclaimed, “I guess we’re going hunting Benjamin.”
Benjamin chuckled, “Did you think you had a choice.”
As the door shut behind Suzy Henry laughed, “She doesn’t know I’m the Stable Master.”
Jim questioned, “Will she be able to get the horses Henry?”
Henry replied, “Oh sure. My stable boy is there, but she will have to harness them herself.”
Emily added, “I’d bet she could do it. I don’t think anything stops her.”
Jim chuckled, “You got that right.”
Henry got up and announced, “I’d better get down there and help her.”
By the time Henry got to the stables Suzy was already walking out. Henry declared, “I see you got them.”
Suzy replied in passing, “Yep.”
Back at the Boardinghouse Benjamin went to his room and got his gun. Then Jim and Benjamin moved out to the porch. Jim put on this gun and saw Suzy had taken hers. Then Victoria came out with a pail handing it to Jim she informed, “Here I put some biscuits and stuff in here. You know in case you get hungry. I’ll have Amos clean out the smoke house, and stack some wood down there. I have faith in you Benjamin. I know you’ll get something.”
Then they went to the wagon to wait for Suzy. Jim went in the coach house and got the rigging. Then he took it and put it on the wagon tongue, as Benjamin put his rifle behind the wagon seat.
Suzy came with the horses. Benjamin took a harness of one of the horses and fed the reins through the harness. Then he put it over the horses head. Suzy informed, “That’s Charlie you have Benjamin, and I got Patty over here. Benjamin put the rigging on Charlie and Suzy did Patty. Jim stood watching feeling useless, as Benjamin and Suzy hooked the two horses together. Then they hooked them to the tongue, and fed the reins up to the brake handle.
Suzy announced, “Ready to go guys.”
Benjamin proclaimed, “Not bad Suzy. I couldn’t have done any better myself.”
Suzy smiled, “Why thank you Benjamin.”
On the road Jim question, “Mr. Belvedere Where are you from?”
Benjamin replied, “That is a question. I’m not sure myself. My mother told me it was on a ship in the middle of the Pacific Ocean on her way to New York. My father was in the textile business selling all types of cloth and woven fabric. That was made in my grandfather’s factories in England.
When I was 16 my father sent me to England to learn from my grandfather. When I turned 18 I was running one of his Cotton mills. Then at 20 my grandfather took me to Africa on a safari. After our time in Africa he sent me home to New York.
That’s when my father sent me to San Francisco to explore the possibilities of expanding his clothing line. The trip took me five months by steam boat, and once in San Francisco I was stunned. It was a mix of people from all over the world. There was no way I could determine a clothing line from what they were wearing.
That’s when I sent a letter to my father explaining what I found, and that I was going to explore the small towns. I found a guide going to Oregon City to catch the Oregon Trail. I stayed with the guide until we got to Boise Idaho. Then I took a Stage to Dention and here I am.
Now about you and where did you come from. You say Texas, but that can’t be true. Everything you have is new. I’d bet this wagon doesn’t have fifty miles on it, and the shovel has never touched the ground. All your close and supplies look like you got them new yesterday. Even your guns are well oiled without a mark on them. So I question where do you come from and who are you?”
Jim was quite. He didn’t know what to say. Finally Jim spoke, “You wouldn’t believe me if I told you, and I’m not going to make up a lie.”
Benjamin exclaimed, “I know you read and write like you’re highly educated, I’d say you’ve lived in a big city. You’re like me and come from a rich family, and were sent to gather information like me. I just don’t know what that is. Did my dad send you to check up on me?”
Just then Benjamin whispered, “Slowly bring the wagon to a stop.”
Jim pulled back on the reins and came to a stop. Benjamin pulled his Sharps 50 from behind the wagon seat. Putting it to his shoulder he took a deep breath. Then there was a loud, “Boom,” and Jim’s ears were ringing. The horses reared up and Jim pulled back on the reins. Calm as could be Benjamin slid the rifle behind the seat and insisted, “What are you waiting for James? Get the wagon over there, so we can dress this animal out.”
Pulling the team to a stop Jim looked at the Elk on the ground. Benjamin took the reins and insisted, “Finish it Jim.”
Jim climbed down from the wagon and pulled his Peacemaker, and shot the Elk in the head. Wrapping the reins around the break lever Benjamin climbed down next to the wagon and took off his vest. Then he pulled his knife and kneeled next to the Elk. In a short time he had removed the Elks insides. After field dressing the Elk Benjamin mumbled, “I couldn’t help but see you pull your gun with lightning speed, fan the hammer, and shoot the Elk dead between the eyes. You did it from the hip without even aiming. Where the hell did you learn to shoot like that?”
Jim dropped his head and whispered, “My Dad showed me that when I was a kid, and I wanted to be like him so much. I just learned it by myself, but he did tell me to never let anyone see my draw. When I ask why he told me it was because you never know when you might have to draw on them, and that would give them an advantage over me.”
Benjamin replied, “No worry about that James. I don’t have a death wish. Let’s cut this into quarters and load it up.”
On the way back Benjamin requested, “Let me see your gun James.”
Jim pulled his Peacemaker and handed it to Benjamin butt first. Taking the gun Benjamin looked it over. Then he said, “I ‘m going to shoot it.”
Jim held the reins tight as the gun went, “Boom.” The horses reared up and Jim pulled back on the rains. Benjamin commented, “That’s what I thought. I noticed it when you shot the elk, and now I know it’s true. No smoke comes out of your gun when you shoot it. Why is that James?”
Jim thought, Oh crap all my rounds have smokeless powder that hasn’t been invented yet. I got to come up with a lie.
Benjamin insisted, “Well James, why doesn’t smoke come out of your gun when you shoot it?”
Jim replied, “There’s this guy in Texas that…”
Benjamin butted in, “I don’t want a lie Jim. We both know you’re not from Texas, so why is it that there is no smoke?”
Jim dropped his head and mumbled, “If I told you. You wouldn’t believe me, so we’ll just have to leave it at that.”
Benjamin added this to his list of many other mysteries about Jim.
Back at the Boardinghouse Benjamin had Jim drive around back by the well. Then Jim saw Victoria walking across the yard caring a bucket. She set the bucket on the wagon and praised, “Nice Benjamin! Cut me off a roast and I’ll get it cooking.”
Benjamin replied, “I haven’t washed any of it yet. It has hair and dirt on it.”
Victoria insisted, “The creek is right there. I know how to wash it. Just cut it off and give it to me.”
Benjamin cut off a large butt roast and gave it to Victoria, and she headed down to the creek about twenty feet away.
Benjamin instructed, “What we’re going to do is take one piece at a time to the creek and wash it up. Then bring it back and hang it in the smokehouse. After that we will washout the back of the wagon. We’ll use that bucket of salt Victoria brought. Then we’ll take the meat down one piece at a time and salt it on the back of the wagon. Then hang it back in the smokehouse. As they were salting the last piece of meat Suzy showed up.
With a mean look Suzy exclaimed, “Look at you James. You’re covered with blood. You look like an ax murderer. As soon as you’re done get down to the creek and get your clothes off and clean up. Make sure you wash all the blood out of your clothes. I’ll get you a change of clothes and some soap.”
Then she steamed off as Benjamin admitted, “We do look a mess. I need to jump in the creek with you. Let’s hang this and I’ll go get a change.”
Jim set his gun belt on the wagon seat, and went to the creek. Suzy came with clean clothes and a bar of soap. She put the clothes on the wagon seat. Then she took the soap to Jim as she exclaimed, “Woo look at that hot body.”
Jim responded, “Knock it off. Oh shit this soap smells like a French whore house.
Suzy informed, “Too bad,” as she walked away.”
After they bathed and put on clean clothes they took the wagon up to the bathhouse, and hung up their clothes. Then they parked the wagon in front of the coach house, and unhitched the team. Jim patted Patty on the neck and praised her, “Good girl Patty. You did a good job today.”
Benjamin hopped up on Charlie and shouted, “Let’s go Charlie.” Then he rode the horse off.”
Walking patty Jim could see Benjamin riding way up ahead, but no way was he trying something like that. Benjamin jumped off Charlie, and handed the reins to the stable boy. Henry walked out and teased, “Benjamin you smell like one of the saloon Girls. Did you go hunting or down to the saloon?”
Benjamin replied, “We got and Elk. Victoria is cooking a roast for dinner.”
Seeing Benjamin ride by Albert went over to the livery. Walking up he questioned, “Was that one of the horses that the new gal wanted me to look at?”
Henry yelled, “Lyle, bring that horse back out here! You won’t believe it Albert. James and Benjamin got an Elk this morning. There’s a roast in the oven right now.”
Jim came in with Patty as Albert looked over Charlie. Then he turned and questioned, “Witch one of you went to the whore house?”
Jim spoke up, “It’s me. My wife gave me this soap to wash up with.”
Benjamin admitted, “I used it too.”
Albert looked Patty over and said, “Well our boy over here needs new shoes. There just to warn to rework. Our girl will need her shoe re worked, or it will come lose again. That shoe is just not made right to fit. Normally I’d charge $10 for the new shoes and $5 for reworking the one shoe, but tell your wife I’ll take $8 and her peace of roast.”
Benjamin blurted, “Its $8 don’t fall for his jokes.”
Then the stable boy took the team, and they all walked down to the Boardinghouse. Benjamin grabbed his rifle and the lunch bucket from the wagon.
Walking in the door Albert announced, “Something smells good.”
Suzy, Mable and Rebecca were sitting at the table eating their soup.
Suzy instructed, “The soup is in the pot at the end of the table next to the bowls, and there’s biscuits under the cloth. They all dished up a bowl and took a biscuit. Then they sat at the table.
Albert looked down the table and said, “$8 and your piece of meat at dinner for the shoe Job Mrs. White.”
Rebecca announced, “Oh this is starting to get good. I smell a story coming on. Blacksmith blackmails customers.”
Albert laughed, “Rebecca, oh I mean Miss. Hill you know I was joking.”
After lunch everyone went back to work, and Jim took Suzy to their room. Speaking softly Jim informed, “I need you to go to Turners Guns and Hardware store and buy a box of ammo and go to the General Store and get some matches.”
About four in the morning Suzy was hearing some noises and went to investigate. She slipped her peace maker from its holster on the chair, and cracked open the door. Peking down the hall she saw a light in the darkness coming from the kitchen. She slipped along the wall until she could see Victoria. With a sigh of relief she went back to her room. Putting her peace maker back she slipped into bed. Jim questioned, “Is everything all right?”
Suze whispered, “It’s just Victoria in the kitchen. She’s starting the fire in the wood stove.”
Jim Mumbled, “Oh.”
After a few minutes Suzy thought, Oh crap I can’t get back to sleep.
She got up and got dressed, and went out to the outhouse. Then to the kitchen where Victoria apologized, “I’m sorry sweetie did I wake you? I know your room is next to the kitchen, and you hear everything.”
Suzy replied, “Its fine I had to get up and go anyway.”
Victoria offered, “If you want you can go out to the barrel and fill that coffee pot with water. Just dip it down there and fill it up. I’ll dump the extra in the water pitcher. If Mr. Zimmerman doesn’t get his coffee you can’t stand to be in the same house with him.”
Suzy took the pot and headed out the door. She returned with the pot, and handed it to Victoria. She took the pot and pored some out into the pitcher. Then she put the basket in and put on the lid. She placed it on the stove as she pointed to a shelf and asked, “Suzan would you get me the bread pan’s from up there.”
Suzy got the pans as Victoria went on. “I have to make bread every morning before Miss. Watson gets up. She loves her tea and toast. Most mornings I make pancakes, but now that we have some bacon I’ll make biscuits and gravy. I’ll cook some of the bacon and use the grease to make gravy. Then chop the cooked bacon into small pieces and add it to the gravy.”
Suzy hung out in the kitchen with Victoria as she made two loafs of bread, two dozen biscuits, the gravy, and started a pot of potato soup. Then when Miss Watson came to the table Suzy went and sat across from her, and asked, “Think you could make me a summer dress. The only one I have is too heavy for summer.”
Mable replied, “I just thought you dressed like that all the time.”
Suzy replied, “I do, but not on Sunday. I can’t go to church waring this.”
Mable agreed, “Sure I can do it. Just come down to the dress shop and we’ll see what we can do.”
Victoria announced, “I’m putting your toast in the pan now Mable.”
Soon Albert came to the table announcing, “Morning ladies.”
Victoria set the toast and biscuits on the table. Then she informed, “I’ll get the Jam and gravy.”
Suzy slipped from the table and went to her room. Opening the door Suzy announced, “Tine to get up sleepy head.”
Rubbing his eyes Jim disclosed, “I slept good last night. It must be because it gets so quiet in here after dark.”
Suzy replied, “The food is on the table, and People are showing up.
Suzy informed, “I’ll take our guns and hang them on the peg.”
Jim blurted, “Don’t use Albert’s peg this time.”
Going out the door Suzy replied, “Got it.”
At breakfast that morning Victoria asked, “Benjamin would you try to hunt some meat for the house.”
Benjamin replied, “Sure if I can get James to take me in his wagon.”
From across the table Suzy replied, “I’ll go to the stables and get the horses.”
Suzy jumped up from the table, and Jim exclaimed, “I guess we’re going hunting Benjamin.”
Benjamin chuckled, “Did you think you had a choice.”
As the door shut behind Suzy Henry laughed, “She doesn’t know I’m the Stable Master.”
Jim questioned, “Will she be able to get the horses Henry?”
Henry replied, “Oh sure. My stable boy is there, but she will have to harness them herself.”
Emily added, “I’d bet she could do it. I don’t think anything stops her.”
Jim chuckled, “You got that right.”
Henry got up and announced, “I’d better get down there and help her.”
By the time Henry got to the stables Suzy was already walking out. Henry declared, “I see you got them.”
Suzy replied in passing, “Yep.”
Back at the Boardinghouse Benjamin went to his room and got his gun. Then Jim and Benjamin moved out to the porch. Jim put on this gun and saw Suzy had taken hers. Then Victoria came out with a pail handing it to Jim she informed, “Here I put some biscuits and stuff in here. You know in case you get hungry. I’ll have Amos clean out the smoke house, and stack some wood down there. I have faith in you Benjamin. I know you’ll get something.”
Then they went to the wagon to wait for Suzy. Jim went in the coach house and got the rigging. Then he took it and put it on the wagon tongue, as Benjamin put his rifle behind the wagon seat.
Suzy came with the horses. Benjamin took a harness of one of the horses and fed the reins through the harness. Then he put it over the horses head. Suzy informed, “That’s Charlie you have Benjamin, and I got Patty over here. Benjamin put the rigging on Charlie and Suzy did Patty. Jim stood watching feeling useless, as Benjamin and Suzy hooked the two horses together. Then they hooked them to the tongue, and fed the reins up to the brake handle.
Suzy announced, “Ready to go guys.”
Benjamin proclaimed, “Not bad Suzy. I couldn’t have done any better myself.”
Suzy smiled, “Why thank you Benjamin.”
On the road Jim question, “Mr. Belvedere Where are you from?”
Benjamin replied, “That is a question. I’m not sure myself. My mother told me it was on a ship in the middle of the Pacific Ocean on her way to New York. My father was in the textile business selling all types of cloth and woven fabric. That was made in my grandfather’s factories in England.
When I was 16 my father sent me to England to learn from my grandfather. When I turned 18 I was running one of his Cotton mills. Then at 20 my grandfather took me to Africa on a safari. After our time in Africa he sent me home to New York.
That’s when my father sent me to San Francisco to explore the possibilities of expanding his clothing line. The trip took me five months by steam boat, and once in San Francisco I was stunned. It was a mix of people from all over the world. There was no way I could determine a clothing line from what they were wearing.
That’s when I sent a letter to my father explaining what I found, and that I was going to explore the small towns. I found a guide going to Oregon City to catch the Oregon Trail. I stayed with the guide until we got to Boise Idaho. Then I took a Stage to Dention and here I am.
Now about you and where did you come from. You say Texas, but that can’t be true. Everything you have is new. I’d bet this wagon doesn’t have fifty miles on it, and the shovel has never touched the ground. All your close and supplies look like you got them new yesterday. Even your guns are well oiled without a mark on them. So I question where do you come from and who are you?”
Jim was quite. He didn’t know what to say. Finally Jim spoke, “You wouldn’t believe me if I told you, and I’m not going to make up a lie.”
Benjamin exclaimed, “I know you read and write like you’re highly educated, I’d say you’ve lived in a big city. You’re like me and come from a rich family, and were sent to gather information like me. I just don’t know what that is. Did my dad send you to check up on me?”
Just then Benjamin whispered, “Slowly bring the wagon to a stop.”
Jim pulled back on the reins and came to a stop. Benjamin pulled his Sharps 50 from behind the wagon seat. Putting it to his shoulder he took a deep breath. Then there was a loud, “Boom,” and Jim’s ears were ringing. The horses reared up and Jim pulled back on the reins. Calm as could be Benjamin slid the rifle behind the seat and insisted, “What are you waiting for James? Get the wagon over there, so we can dress this animal out.”
Pulling the team to a stop Jim looked at the Elk on the ground. Benjamin took the reins and insisted, “Finish it Jim.”
Jim climbed down from the wagon and pulled his Peacemaker, and shot the Elk in the head. Wrapping the reins around the break lever Benjamin climbed down next to the wagon and took off his vest. Then he pulled his knife and kneeled next to the Elk. In a short time he had removed the Elks insides. After field dressing the Elk Benjamin mumbled, “I couldn’t help but see you pull your gun with lightning speed, fan the hammer, and shoot the Elk dead between the eyes. You did it from the hip without even aiming. Where the hell did you learn to shoot like that?”
Jim dropped his head and whispered, “My Dad showed me that when I was a kid, and I wanted to be like him so much. I just learned it by myself, but he did tell me to never let anyone see my draw. When I ask why he told me it was because you never know when you might have to draw on them, and that would give them an advantage over me.”
Benjamin replied, “No worry about that James. I don’t have a death wish. Let’s cut this into quarters and load it up.”
On the way back Benjamin requested, “Let me see your gun James.”
Jim pulled his Peacemaker and handed it to Benjamin butt first. Taking the gun Benjamin looked it over. Then he said, “I ‘m going to shoot it.”
Jim held the reins tight as the gun went, “Boom.” The horses reared up and Jim pulled back on the rains. Benjamin commented, “That’s what I thought. I noticed it when you shot the elk, and now I know it’s true. No smoke comes out of your gun when you shoot it. Why is that James?”
Jim thought, Oh crap all my rounds have smokeless powder that hasn’t been invented yet. I got to come up with a lie.
Benjamin insisted, “Well James, why doesn’t smoke come out of your gun when you shoot it?”
Jim replied, “There’s this guy in Texas that…”
Benjamin butted in, “I don’t want a lie Jim. We both know you’re not from Texas, so why is it that there is no smoke?”
Jim dropped his head and mumbled, “If I told you. You wouldn’t believe me, so we’ll just have to leave it at that.”
Benjamin added this to his list of many other mysteries about Jim.
Back at the Boardinghouse Benjamin had Jim drive around back by the well. Then Jim saw Victoria walking across the yard caring a bucket. She set the bucket on the wagon and praised, “Nice Benjamin! Cut me off a roast and I’ll get it cooking.”
Benjamin replied, “I haven’t washed any of it yet. It has hair and dirt on it.”
Victoria insisted, “The creek is right there. I know how to wash it. Just cut it off and give it to me.”
Benjamin cut off a large butt roast and gave it to Victoria, and she headed down to the creek about twenty feet away.
Benjamin instructed, “What we’re going to do is take one piece at a time to the creek and wash it up. Then bring it back and hang it in the smokehouse. After that we will washout the back of the wagon. We’ll use that bucket of salt Victoria brought. Then we’ll take the meat down one piece at a time and salt it on the back of the wagon. Then hang it back in the smokehouse. As they were salting the last piece of meat Suzy showed up.
With a mean look Suzy exclaimed, “Look at you James. You’re covered with blood. You look like an ax murderer. As soon as you’re done get down to the creek and get your clothes off and clean up. Make sure you wash all the blood out of your clothes. I’ll get you a change of clothes and some soap.”
Then she steamed off as Benjamin admitted, “We do look a mess. I need to jump in the creek with you. Let’s hang this and I’ll go get a change.”
Jim set his gun belt on the wagon seat, and went to the creek. Suzy came with clean clothes and a bar of soap. She put the clothes on the wagon seat. Then she took the soap to Jim as she exclaimed, “Woo look at that hot body.”
Jim responded, “Knock it off. Oh shit this soap smells like a French whore house.
Suzy informed, “Too bad,” as she walked away.”
After they bathed and put on clean clothes they took the wagon up to the bathhouse, and hung up their clothes. Then they parked the wagon in front of the coach house, and unhitched the team. Jim patted Patty on the neck and praised her, “Good girl Patty. You did a good job today.”
Benjamin hopped up on Charlie and shouted, “Let’s go Charlie.” Then he rode the horse off.”
Walking patty Jim could see Benjamin riding way up ahead, but no way was he trying something like that. Benjamin jumped off Charlie, and handed the reins to the stable boy. Henry walked out and teased, “Benjamin you smell like one of the saloon Girls. Did you go hunting or down to the saloon?”
Benjamin replied, “We got and Elk. Victoria is cooking a roast for dinner.”
Seeing Benjamin ride by Albert went over to the livery. Walking up he questioned, “Was that one of the horses that the new gal wanted me to look at?”
Henry yelled, “Lyle, bring that horse back out here! You won’t believe it Albert. James and Benjamin got an Elk this morning. There’s a roast in the oven right now.”
Jim came in with Patty as Albert looked over Charlie. Then he turned and questioned, “Witch one of you went to the whore house?”
Jim spoke up, “It’s me. My wife gave me this soap to wash up with.”
Benjamin admitted, “I used it too.”
Albert looked Patty over and said, “Well our boy over here needs new shoes. There just to warn to rework. Our girl will need her shoe re worked, or it will come lose again. That shoe is just not made right to fit. Normally I’d charge $10 for the new shoes and $5 for reworking the one shoe, but tell your wife I’ll take $8 and her peace of roast.”
Benjamin blurted, “Its $8 don’t fall for his jokes.”
Then the stable boy took the team, and they all walked down to the Boardinghouse. Benjamin grabbed his rifle and the lunch bucket from the wagon.
Walking in the door Albert announced, “Something smells good.”
Suzy, Mable and Rebecca were sitting at the table eating their soup.
Suzy instructed, “The soup is in the pot at the end of the table next to the bowls, and there’s biscuits under the cloth. They all dished up a bowl and took a biscuit. Then they sat at the table.
Albert looked down the table and said, “$8 and your piece of meat at dinner for the shoe Job Mrs. White.”
Rebecca announced, “Oh this is starting to get good. I smell a story coming on. Blacksmith blackmails customers.”
Albert laughed, “Rebecca, oh I mean Miss. Hill you know I was joking.”
After lunch everyone went back to work, and Jim took Suzy to their room. Speaking softly Jim informed, “I need you to go to Turners Guns and Hardware store and buy a box of ammo and go to the General Store and get some matches.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Suzy replied, “We have hundreds of rounds we don’t need that.”
Jim whispered, “All our bullets have smokeless gunpowder witch hasn’t been invented yet. Benjamin noticed it when I shot my gun today.”
Suzy questioned, “What did you tell him?”
Jim replied, “I told him if I told you. You wouldn’t believe me.”
Suzy questioned, “And then?”
Jim replied, “Nothing he knows. If I go he might follow me, so I need you to do it. How much do want me to give you. I think the bullets are a penny a peace. That would be fifty cents for a box. I have no idea what matches cost.”
Suzy requested, “Just give me a dollar and a half.”
Jim reached in his pocket and pulled out a silver dollar and two quarters. Suzy handed back the silver dollar and said, “No all quarters.”
Jim gave her four quarters and she left. Jim went out and sat on the porch. He could see Benjamin down by the well, so he decided to walk down. Benjamin was loading some wood in the fire box when Jim asked, “Why are you staying here at the Boardinghouse Benjamin?”
Benjamin replied, “That’s a good question James. I’m not too sure myself. I came here because it’s a small town a long ways from a big city. This is where people would order things out of a catalog. This is the market my dad wanted to get in, but most people that order things out of a catalog dint have a lot of money. That’s the case for this town. In a catalog the profit for the vender is already in the price. You do know what vender means don’t you James?”
Jim replied, “Yes the vender is the one selling it. I’m with you keep going.”
Benjamin went on, “So we can set the price cheaper and the vender can’t jack up the price. Say a store gets some shirts. He has to get different sizes for the customer say small, medium, and large. Now he has a big investment in shirts and has to make a large profit to cover it. Like say fifty percent.
Now with the catalog they order the size they need and the cost to him is nothing and he gets ten percent. This makes things cheaper for the customer and now they can get two for the same price. Does that make sense to you Jim?
Jim replied, “Oh yes I understand marketing, but people with little money only buy things they need. With that said. I guess that is your job. To determine what will sale to that kind of people.
Benjamin confessed, “You are very smart James. What college did you go to?
Jim joked, “I went to the college of hard knocks. No I never went to college. Just public school the rest I learned myself most of the times the hard way.
Benjamin acknowledged, “Aw yes we can learn a lot from our mistakes.”
Jim announced, “I see Suzan on the porch. I think I’ll walk up there.”
Benjamin insisted, “I’ll be up in a few. I just need to get this going good enough to turn it down.”
Jim walked up and sat in his chair next to Suzy. Then he whispered, “You get them?”
Suzy replied, “All taken care of. I reloaded our guns and put the matches on the stand next to the lamp. It was 15¢ for the matches. I thought I heard they were a penny, but that was wrong. I also got two dime novels, Outlaw Jack and The Warrior Princess. I thought we could read them to each other.
Don’t go in the house. That roast smell so good I can’t stand it. Victoria’s in the kitchen cooking up a storm. She sent Amos down to the cellar to get a jar of corn. We’re having the roast, mashed potatoes, gravy, and corn. That’s a feast in these times.”
Jim explained, “We have to be careful around Benjamin, He’s really smart. His father has him out here doing market analysis. He comes from a textile family and I already caught him looking at the stitching in my clothes. I was bathing in the creek and saw him checking my clothes out. He tried to play it off, but I think he’s on to something.”
Suzy replied, “I knew when I saw him checking my material in the wagon it might be a problem. I just hope I did my research good enough we don’t have to explain things like the bullets.”
The kitchen window went up, and Victoria came out to the porch. Jim was watching Amos working in the garden when Victoria announced, “It’s getting hot in there. Think I could get you to open the dining room windows Jim? Split it between the top and bottom please. Maybe that will get a draft going in there.”
Jim replied, “I’m on it Victoria.”
After Jim left Victoria declared, “Thank you so much for helping me this morning sweetie. It seems it gets harder every day, but because of James and Benjamin some of my worry is gone.”
Jim cane back out and sat in his chair as Benjamin arrived. Looking at Victoria Benjamin informed, “It was a nice Elk. I think we have close to four hundred pounds in the smoke house. I’ll keep the fire going for the first three days then I’ll check it. It might take longer. I’m just not sure.”
James inquired, “You’re using the hour per pound rule Benjamin?”
Benjamin replied, “I sure am James it’s about the safest way to smoke meat.”
Jim went on, “I see you put the alder in the creek.”
Benjamin explained, “That helps make the wood burn longer, and make more smoke. It also makes steam that keeps the meat from drying out.”
Victoria confessed, “I better get back in the kitchen. I’m going to have a house full of hungry people soon.”
Suzy jumped up, “I’ll help you.”
Jim inquired, “You said you were gathering marketing information. How long have you been here?”
Benjamin revealed, “I landed in San Francisco just about a year ago. It was just before the great crash of the stock market last June. That was the start of this Depression. My Father wrote me and told me to stay out here. He wrote that things in New York were bad, and panic and depression hit all of the industrial areas. I found this out after I got here about eight months ago”
Jim’s jaw dropped, “I’m sorry Benjamin.”
Benjamin replied, “It’s OK I got an idea from you. It might make all this worth wile.”
Then it hit him like a slap in the face. Suzy was wearing a ring. He excused himself. Then he headed straight to the kitchen. Looking at Suzy sure enough there was a ring on her finger.”
Seeing Jim looking at her Suzy questioned, “Need something?”
Jim requested, “Can I talk to you for a minute.”
Victoria instructed, “Go ahead sweetie it’s all but done anyway.”
Suzy followed Jim to her room. Where Jim questioned, “Did you get that ring today?”
Suzy looked dumbfounded, “What are you talking about?”
Jim replied, “That ring on your finger.”
Holding up her hand Suzy declared, “You mean this one I’ve been waring sense we got here?”
Jim’s mouth dropped open, “When did you put that on?”
Suzy replied, “It was just before the truck ran off the road.”
Jim said, “Oh, I was wondering where the rest of our smokeless ammo is?
Suzy replied, “Out in with the cooking gear. Why?”
Jim informed, “I thought it was in the chamber-pot. Why’s it so heavy?”
Suzy disclosed, “It was part of my tax shelter. I didn’t want to leave it there well we were gone, so I put it in the chamber-pot.”
Outside on the porch Albert came up and hung his gun on the peg. Then Benjamin waved Albert over to the corner of the porch. Then whispering he said, “There’s something strange about James’s gun. No smoke comes out when you shoot it.”
Albert started laughing and asked, “Have you been drinking Benjamin?”
Benjamin insisted, “I swear to God no smoke comes out. I shot it to check it out and sure enough no smoke.”
Albert said, “Let’s see.”
Then he went over and pulled out Jim’s gun and shot it. Out came a big puff of smoke. Benjamin’s eyes bulged out, as Albert put the gun back in the holster. Herring the shot Jim ran to the porch with Suzy behind him.
As Suzy got to the kitchen Victoria informed, “It’s just Albert sweetie. I think he was shooting at a coyote.”
Suzy slowed to a walk and Jim was looking at Albert as he questioned, “What happened?”
Albert replied, “Just a coyote down by the well Jim. It was most likely after one of our chickens. I already hung up my gun and yours was right there so I used it. You have an empty chamber now.”
Jim replied, “Benjamin and I washed the blood out of the wagon down there. That might have something to do with it too.”
Albert agreed, “Could be, we’ll just have to keep an eye out.
Just then Henry walked up and announced, “Well I lost another customer today. Jack Kindle came in and informed me that he couldn’t pay his bill. He asked me if I’d take his horse for the bill. What could I say, I did it. Now I have another horse to feed. Times are going from bad to worse.”
Albert spoke up. “Doesn’t Jack have a buggy?”
Henry assured, “I guess he’ll have to rent a horse from me to use it, but that won’t even pay the feed bill.”
Albert informed, “The two guys that got the old Preston place. They came in to have me make them a skidding grapple. They are cutting wood out there for $5 a cord. It’s an Oak and Alder mix, but you have to hall it yourself. They have a team out there they use to drag the logs to their wood lot, but they only have a buckboard for hauling. Their taking orders now, and I thought I should get in well the getting’s good. I told him I’d take four cords. Now I have to find someone with a wagon to hall it.”
Then Albert looked in the air and whistled. Suzy slapped Jim on the butt and scolded, “He’s talking to you James.”
Jim replied, “Oh, I’m sure we can work something out Albert.”
Emily walked up on the porch as Benjamin announced, “Good evening Miss. Johnson.”
Looking at Benjamin Emily replied, “Mr. Belvedere.”
Henry tipped his hat and exclaimed, “Emily.”
Emily asserted, “Albert, James, Suzan,” as she passed.
Albert excused himself and went to wash up. In his room he washed his hands in his washbowl, and pulled two rounds from his box of bullets. Then put them in his pocket. By the time Albert came back down everyone was showing up for dinner. He went out to the porch where he was now by himself. He pulled two rounds from Jim’s gun belt and put the two from his pocket in it.
Then Albert went to dinner like nothing happened. At the table everyone was praising Jim and Benjamin for their success.
Benjamin insisted pointing to Jim, “It was Wild Bill Hickok down there that brought the luck.”
Jim replied, “OK I know I need a haircut. I plan on getting one as soon as I find a barber, but the truth is it’s Quigley down there that got the Elk. Where I come from there was a guy named Quigley. They say he could take a half mile shot and hit a bucket. Guess I’ll have to start calling you Quigley Benjamin.”
Setting the roast on the table Henry requested, “Why don’t you come and sit with us Victoria? You made a Sunday feast. You should be here with us.”
Victoria replied, “I can’t Henry it’s Friday.”
Henry pointed out, “You always sit with us on Sunday. Why not today?”
Victoria insisted, “Because today you are residents, and on Sunday we’re family.”
Then Victoria left them to their dinner. Benjamin prayed and Albert cut the meat. Then they all talked about their day.
Albert offered, “James I’ll make you a deal. I’ll give you two dollars a lode to hall my wood. Let’s say one load a week. What do you think about that?”
Jim agreed, “That sounds good to me.”
Albert replied, “I’ll get your team from Henry tomorrow morning and do their shoes. Then bring them home at lunch. We can get the first load tomorrow afternoon. This way you get your team taken care of, and I get my wood.”
Jim laughed, “You sneaky devil you. I see what you did.”
After dinner Jim and Suzy got their gun belts and went to their room to read “The Warrior Princess.” Out on the porch Henry was enjoying his pipe, and Benjamin was checking the smoker.
Albert came out and sat on the bench and talked to Henry saying, “I think I worked it out to help James and Suzan with their team. Now if we could find a way for you to help with their boarding of the team.”
Henry revealed, “Most people that own a team have land and just pasture them. All of my borders only have one horse. It’s even hard for most to even board one horse. The store owner Hank has a buggy but no horse. He just rents one from me when he needs it for 50¢ a day. Feed cost so much it makes it hard to make money.”
Benjamin came up and questioned, “You talking about me again?”
Albert replied, “NO, about James.”
Benjamin confessed, “I had some long talks with James today. I have to tell you he is very smart. Don’t under estimate him. He knows a lot more than you’d think. I think he went to college somewhere, but he denies it.”
Henry hypothesized, “I think the more time we spend with him the sooner we’ll know.”
Saturday morning was just like any other day. Everyone met for breakfast and went to work. Mable went to the dress shop, Emily went to the store, Albert went to the blacksmith shop, and Henry went to the Livery. Suzy helped Victoria, and Jim and Benjamin went down to the smoker.
Benjamin explained, “It’s good that it’s cold today. The clouds and cool weather makes a better smoke on the meat.”
Jim replied, “It’s good for working to. I just hope it doesn’t rain. I would hate to have to go get wood in the rain.”
Benjamin assured, “If it rains I’m sure Albert will go another day.”
Suzy was enjoying spending time with Victoria, but Jim was getting board. Talking with Benjamin did pass the time, but he was like Sherlock Holmes on a case.
Finely everyone started showing up one by one. Suzy was sitting on the wagon waiting for Albert. When he arrived Suzy jumped down from the wagon and took Patty. Then checked her new shoe, and looked at Albert and said, “You do good work Albert. Oh and look at you Charlie with your new shoes. Thanks Albert. Go in and eat I’ll hitch up the team.”
Albert questioned, “You sure Suzan I can help?”
Suzy insisted, “No go ahead or Jim won’t leave anything for you.”
Reluctantly Albert went in and had the leftover potato soup and bread for lunch.
After eating Jim took his canteen and went to the well. Then he went to the wagon to meet Albert. At the wagon Albert explained their place is about a mile and a half out of town heading up to the mountains. The road follows the creek up there.
Jim whispered, “All our bullets have smokeless gunpowder witch hasn’t been invented yet. Benjamin noticed it when I shot my gun today.”
Suzy questioned, “What did you tell him?”
Jim replied, “I told him if I told you. You wouldn’t believe me.”
Suzy questioned, “And then?”
Jim replied, “Nothing he knows. If I go he might follow me, so I need you to do it. How much do want me to give you. I think the bullets are a penny a peace. That would be fifty cents for a box. I have no idea what matches cost.”
Suzy requested, “Just give me a dollar and a half.”
Jim reached in his pocket and pulled out a silver dollar and two quarters. Suzy handed back the silver dollar and said, “No all quarters.”
Jim gave her four quarters and she left. Jim went out and sat on the porch. He could see Benjamin down by the well, so he decided to walk down. Benjamin was loading some wood in the fire box when Jim asked, “Why are you staying here at the Boardinghouse Benjamin?”
Benjamin replied, “That’s a good question James. I’m not too sure myself. I came here because it’s a small town a long ways from a big city. This is where people would order things out of a catalog. This is the market my dad wanted to get in, but most people that order things out of a catalog dint have a lot of money. That’s the case for this town. In a catalog the profit for the vender is already in the price. You do know what vender means don’t you James?”
Jim replied, “Yes the vender is the one selling it. I’m with you keep going.”
Benjamin went on, “So we can set the price cheaper and the vender can’t jack up the price. Say a store gets some shirts. He has to get different sizes for the customer say small, medium, and large. Now he has a big investment in shirts and has to make a large profit to cover it. Like say fifty percent.
Now with the catalog they order the size they need and the cost to him is nothing and he gets ten percent. This makes things cheaper for the customer and now they can get two for the same price. Does that make sense to you Jim?
Jim replied, “Oh yes I understand marketing, but people with little money only buy things they need. With that said. I guess that is your job. To determine what will sale to that kind of people.
Benjamin confessed, “You are very smart James. What college did you go to?
Jim joked, “I went to the college of hard knocks. No I never went to college. Just public school the rest I learned myself most of the times the hard way.
Benjamin acknowledged, “Aw yes we can learn a lot from our mistakes.”
Jim announced, “I see Suzan on the porch. I think I’ll walk up there.”
Benjamin insisted, “I’ll be up in a few. I just need to get this going good enough to turn it down.”
Jim walked up and sat in his chair next to Suzy. Then he whispered, “You get them?”
Suzy replied, “All taken care of. I reloaded our guns and put the matches on the stand next to the lamp. It was 15¢ for the matches. I thought I heard they were a penny, but that was wrong. I also got two dime novels, Outlaw Jack and The Warrior Princess. I thought we could read them to each other.
Don’t go in the house. That roast smell so good I can’t stand it. Victoria’s in the kitchen cooking up a storm. She sent Amos down to the cellar to get a jar of corn. We’re having the roast, mashed potatoes, gravy, and corn. That’s a feast in these times.”
Jim explained, “We have to be careful around Benjamin, He’s really smart. His father has him out here doing market analysis. He comes from a textile family and I already caught him looking at the stitching in my clothes. I was bathing in the creek and saw him checking my clothes out. He tried to play it off, but I think he’s on to something.”
Suzy replied, “I knew when I saw him checking my material in the wagon it might be a problem. I just hope I did my research good enough we don’t have to explain things like the bullets.”
The kitchen window went up, and Victoria came out to the porch. Jim was watching Amos working in the garden when Victoria announced, “It’s getting hot in there. Think I could get you to open the dining room windows Jim? Split it between the top and bottom please. Maybe that will get a draft going in there.”
Jim replied, “I’m on it Victoria.”
After Jim left Victoria declared, “Thank you so much for helping me this morning sweetie. It seems it gets harder every day, but because of James and Benjamin some of my worry is gone.”
Jim cane back out and sat in his chair as Benjamin arrived. Looking at Victoria Benjamin informed, “It was a nice Elk. I think we have close to four hundred pounds in the smoke house. I’ll keep the fire going for the first three days then I’ll check it. It might take longer. I’m just not sure.”
James inquired, “You’re using the hour per pound rule Benjamin?”
Benjamin replied, “I sure am James it’s about the safest way to smoke meat.”
Jim went on, “I see you put the alder in the creek.”
Benjamin explained, “That helps make the wood burn longer, and make more smoke. It also makes steam that keeps the meat from drying out.”
Victoria confessed, “I better get back in the kitchen. I’m going to have a house full of hungry people soon.”
Suzy jumped up, “I’ll help you.”
Jim inquired, “You said you were gathering marketing information. How long have you been here?”
Benjamin revealed, “I landed in San Francisco just about a year ago. It was just before the great crash of the stock market last June. That was the start of this Depression. My Father wrote me and told me to stay out here. He wrote that things in New York were bad, and panic and depression hit all of the industrial areas. I found this out after I got here about eight months ago”
Jim’s jaw dropped, “I’m sorry Benjamin.”
Benjamin replied, “It’s OK I got an idea from you. It might make all this worth wile.”
Then it hit him like a slap in the face. Suzy was wearing a ring. He excused himself. Then he headed straight to the kitchen. Looking at Suzy sure enough there was a ring on her finger.”
Seeing Jim looking at her Suzy questioned, “Need something?”
Jim requested, “Can I talk to you for a minute.”
Victoria instructed, “Go ahead sweetie it’s all but done anyway.”
Suzy followed Jim to her room. Where Jim questioned, “Did you get that ring today?”
Suzy looked dumbfounded, “What are you talking about?”
Jim replied, “That ring on your finger.”
Holding up her hand Suzy declared, “You mean this one I’ve been waring sense we got here?”
Jim’s mouth dropped open, “When did you put that on?”
Suzy replied, “It was just before the truck ran off the road.”
Jim said, “Oh, I was wondering where the rest of our smokeless ammo is?
Suzy replied, “Out in with the cooking gear. Why?”
Jim informed, “I thought it was in the chamber-pot. Why’s it so heavy?”
Suzy disclosed, “It was part of my tax shelter. I didn’t want to leave it there well we were gone, so I put it in the chamber-pot.”
Outside on the porch Albert came up and hung his gun on the peg. Then Benjamin waved Albert over to the corner of the porch. Then whispering he said, “There’s something strange about James’s gun. No smoke comes out when you shoot it.”
Albert started laughing and asked, “Have you been drinking Benjamin?”
Benjamin insisted, “I swear to God no smoke comes out. I shot it to check it out and sure enough no smoke.”
Albert said, “Let’s see.”
Then he went over and pulled out Jim’s gun and shot it. Out came a big puff of smoke. Benjamin’s eyes bulged out, as Albert put the gun back in the holster. Herring the shot Jim ran to the porch with Suzy behind him.
As Suzy got to the kitchen Victoria informed, “It’s just Albert sweetie. I think he was shooting at a coyote.”
Suzy slowed to a walk and Jim was looking at Albert as he questioned, “What happened?”
Albert replied, “Just a coyote down by the well Jim. It was most likely after one of our chickens. I already hung up my gun and yours was right there so I used it. You have an empty chamber now.”
Jim replied, “Benjamin and I washed the blood out of the wagon down there. That might have something to do with it too.”
Albert agreed, “Could be, we’ll just have to keep an eye out.
Just then Henry walked up and announced, “Well I lost another customer today. Jack Kindle came in and informed me that he couldn’t pay his bill. He asked me if I’d take his horse for the bill. What could I say, I did it. Now I have another horse to feed. Times are going from bad to worse.”
Albert spoke up. “Doesn’t Jack have a buggy?”
Henry assured, “I guess he’ll have to rent a horse from me to use it, but that won’t even pay the feed bill.”
Albert informed, “The two guys that got the old Preston place. They came in to have me make them a skidding grapple. They are cutting wood out there for $5 a cord. It’s an Oak and Alder mix, but you have to hall it yourself. They have a team out there they use to drag the logs to their wood lot, but they only have a buckboard for hauling. Their taking orders now, and I thought I should get in well the getting’s good. I told him I’d take four cords. Now I have to find someone with a wagon to hall it.”
Then Albert looked in the air and whistled. Suzy slapped Jim on the butt and scolded, “He’s talking to you James.”
Jim replied, “Oh, I’m sure we can work something out Albert.”
Emily walked up on the porch as Benjamin announced, “Good evening Miss. Johnson.”
Looking at Benjamin Emily replied, “Mr. Belvedere.”
Henry tipped his hat and exclaimed, “Emily.”
Emily asserted, “Albert, James, Suzan,” as she passed.
Albert excused himself and went to wash up. In his room he washed his hands in his washbowl, and pulled two rounds from his box of bullets. Then put them in his pocket. By the time Albert came back down everyone was showing up for dinner. He went out to the porch where he was now by himself. He pulled two rounds from Jim’s gun belt and put the two from his pocket in it.
Then Albert went to dinner like nothing happened. At the table everyone was praising Jim and Benjamin for their success.
Benjamin insisted pointing to Jim, “It was Wild Bill Hickok down there that brought the luck.”
Jim replied, “OK I know I need a haircut. I plan on getting one as soon as I find a barber, but the truth is it’s Quigley down there that got the Elk. Where I come from there was a guy named Quigley. They say he could take a half mile shot and hit a bucket. Guess I’ll have to start calling you Quigley Benjamin.”
Setting the roast on the table Henry requested, “Why don’t you come and sit with us Victoria? You made a Sunday feast. You should be here with us.”
Victoria replied, “I can’t Henry it’s Friday.”
Henry pointed out, “You always sit with us on Sunday. Why not today?”
Victoria insisted, “Because today you are residents, and on Sunday we’re family.”
Then Victoria left them to their dinner. Benjamin prayed and Albert cut the meat. Then they all talked about their day.
Albert offered, “James I’ll make you a deal. I’ll give you two dollars a lode to hall my wood. Let’s say one load a week. What do you think about that?”
Jim agreed, “That sounds good to me.”
Albert replied, “I’ll get your team from Henry tomorrow morning and do their shoes. Then bring them home at lunch. We can get the first load tomorrow afternoon. This way you get your team taken care of, and I get my wood.”
Jim laughed, “You sneaky devil you. I see what you did.”
After dinner Jim and Suzy got their gun belts and went to their room to read “The Warrior Princess.” Out on the porch Henry was enjoying his pipe, and Benjamin was checking the smoker.
Albert came out and sat on the bench and talked to Henry saying, “I think I worked it out to help James and Suzan with their team. Now if we could find a way for you to help with their boarding of the team.”
Henry revealed, “Most people that own a team have land and just pasture them. All of my borders only have one horse. It’s even hard for most to even board one horse. The store owner Hank has a buggy but no horse. He just rents one from me when he needs it for 50¢ a day. Feed cost so much it makes it hard to make money.”
Benjamin came up and questioned, “You talking about me again?”
Albert replied, “NO, about James.”
Benjamin confessed, “I had some long talks with James today. I have to tell you he is very smart. Don’t under estimate him. He knows a lot more than you’d think. I think he went to college somewhere, but he denies it.”
Henry hypothesized, “I think the more time we spend with him the sooner we’ll know.”
Saturday morning was just like any other day. Everyone met for breakfast and went to work. Mable went to the dress shop, Emily went to the store, Albert went to the blacksmith shop, and Henry went to the Livery. Suzy helped Victoria, and Jim and Benjamin went down to the smoker.
Benjamin explained, “It’s good that it’s cold today. The clouds and cool weather makes a better smoke on the meat.”
Jim replied, “It’s good for working to. I just hope it doesn’t rain. I would hate to have to go get wood in the rain.”
Benjamin assured, “If it rains I’m sure Albert will go another day.”
Suzy was enjoying spending time with Victoria, but Jim was getting board. Talking with Benjamin did pass the time, but he was like Sherlock Holmes on a case.
Finely everyone started showing up one by one. Suzy was sitting on the wagon waiting for Albert. When he arrived Suzy jumped down from the wagon and took Patty. Then checked her new shoe, and looked at Albert and said, “You do good work Albert. Oh and look at you Charlie with your new shoes. Thanks Albert. Go in and eat I’ll hitch up the team.”
Albert questioned, “You sure Suzan I can help?”
Suzy insisted, “No go ahead or Jim won’t leave anything for you.”
Reluctantly Albert went in and had the leftover potato soup and bread for lunch.
After eating Jim took his canteen and went to the well. Then he went to the wagon to meet Albert. At the wagon Albert explained their place is about a mile and a half out of town heading up to the mountains. The road follows the creek up there.
gonewacky
Veteran Member
About a quarter mile out of town Albert informed, “We’re coming up on the swimming hole. Its only about five feet deep, but it’s enough to cool off on a hot day. The school kids hangout there a lot.”
As they approached a group of kids we’re standing looking at the swimming hole.
Then Albert yelled, “What the hell! Stop the wagon!”
Jim stopped the wagon as Albert jumped down dropping his gun belt to the ground. Then he ran to the swimming hole. Jim could see a kid floundering in the middle of the swimming hole. Jim thought, Oh my God it’s too cold and hypothermia is setting in.”
Then Jim watched the boy go down, as Albert jumped in. Jim dropped the rains, and ran to the swimming hole. Albert was dragging the boy out as Jim arrived. Putting his ear to the boy’s chest Albert listened for a heartbeat.
Albert whispered, “He’s gone.”
Jim yelled a desperate cry, “Nooo!”
And he pushed Albert to the side. Then he kneeled down and pressed his fingers on his neck. There was no pulse, so he tipped the boy’s head back and started mouth to mouth. Then chest compressions, as he questioned, “What is his name?”
A little girl informed, “Its Tommy, but its Billy’s fault. He threw Tommy’s new knife in the swimming hole.
Jim went back to mouth to mouth. Then to chest compressions, as he begged, “Tommy come back we need you here. We’re all here Tommy come on back.”
Then there was a jerk and Tommy spit up water. Jim rolled Tommy on his side. Then Jim took off his Jacket and wrapped it around Tommy.
Looking at Albert shivering Jim demanded, “We have to get somewhere warm. Like right now.”
Albert blurted, “The Peterson’s place just up the road.”
Jim took the little eighty pound boy in his arms, and held him tight as he ran to the wagon. Albert retrieved the rains from the ground, and got on the wagon. Jim flopped in the back with Tommy. Albert gave the rains a whip and yelled, “Yah!”
The wagon took off with Jim and Tommy rolling and bouncing around in the back. Jim was talking to Tommy, “Stay with me Tommy we’re almost there. You have to fight. Fight hard Tommy we all need you.”
Then Albert yelled, “I see smoke coming from the house.”
Pulling the wagon to the door Albert jumped from the wagon and flung the door open yelling, “Sheriff.” Startled Mrs. Peterson looked at Albert as Jim rushed in the door with Tommy. Then he went right to the wood cook stove, and knelled next to the fire box. He held Tommy as close to the stove as possible.
Albert explained, “Its Tommy he fell in the creek.”
Jim instructed, “I need a blanket!”
Mrs. Peterson replied, “Oh for heaven’s sake what was I thinking.”
Then she went through the door to the next room and pulled the blanket from the bed. Jim stripped Tommy’s clothes off and took off his shirt. Then Jim pushed his bare chest against Tommy’s, and wrapped the blanket around them.
Mrs. Peterson insisted, “Albert you need to get out of those wet clothes. I’ll get you a pair of Roy’s pants and a shirt. Roy should be back soon, he’s out checking the fences.”
Jim kept softly talking to Tommy, “We love you so much and need you. Keep fighting Tommy we’re almost there.”
Then Tommy started to shiver, and Jim fell on his back with Tommy on top of him. Jim whispered, “Thank you God for giving Tommy back to us.”
Tommy questioned, “What is this place?”
Jim answered, “You’re at the Peterson’s Tommy. Now just stay quiet and rest.”
Mrs. Peterson gave Albert the clothes and went in the bed room so Albert could change. Then Roy came in the door complaining, “Whose wagon is that out there. They didn’t even set the break on the damn thing.”
Seeing Albert and Jim with Tommy lying on top of Jim Roy questioned, “What the hell’s going on around here?”
Roy’s wife Abigail announced opening the door, “Tommy fell in the creek and they brought him here.”
Roy questioned, “Well is he going to be all right?”
Jim assured, “I think so. He’s shivering now.”
Abigail confessed, “He was life less and I thought he was dead when they came in.”
Roy insisted, “Well someone needs to get the Wilson’s over here to pick up their boy.”
Just then there was a knock at the door. Opening the door Roy saw Daniel holding out the Sheriff’s gun belt. The boy informed, “The Sheriff left his gun at the swimming hole.”
Taking the gun Roy instructed, “Go tell Tommy’s mom and dad to come and get him. Tell then to bring dry clothes and a blanket. Well go boy.”
The boy took off and Roy shut the door. Handing Albert his gun Roy commented, “My shirt looks tight on you.”
Jim slipped away from Tommy and pulled his coat from him. Then Jim wrapped the blanket tight around Tommy. Jim buttoned up his shirt and put on his coat. Then Jim informed, “Some broth would be nice or a cup of hot water with sugar in it.”
Abigail looked at the boy and smiled, “I’ve got some hot water on the stove for tea. I could put a spoon of sugar in it. That’s the way I like it what do you think Tommy?”
Tommy smiled and with a shaky voice replied, “Please.”
Jim insisted, “I think he’ll be fine now.”
Looking at Jim Roy insisted, “I didn’t get your name.”
Jim replied, “Wild Bill Hickok.”
Picking up his wet clothes Albert laughed, “Come on James. Let’s go.”
Roy announced, “Albert, James, see you around.
Jim turned on his way out and disclosed, “Pleased to meet you Roy, Mrs. Peterson.”
In the wagon Albert disclosed, “We’re not getting the wood today. Head back to the house so I can change.”
On the way back Albert questioned, “How the hell did you do that? The boy was dead I checked him myself. Last I knew when you stop breathing and have no hart beat you’re dead, and one other thing. I took one of the bullets from your gun belt last night. I shot it behind the Blacksmith shop this morning, and sure enough no smoke came out. That means Benjamin was right no smoke comes out of your gun. How are you going to explain this?”
Jim took a deep breath and thought, Sometimes the truth is stranger than fiction, and no one believes it.
With that thought Jim confessed, “I’m a time traveler.”
Albert broke out laughing so hard he almost fell off the wagon. Then he questioned, “No really, how are you going to explain this?”
Jim told the truth, “I don’t know about the bullets they were that way when I got them. As for the boy my heart went out to him being so small. I just couldn’t let him die like that. I just did what I saw once. I watched a guy do that to a little girl as the mother was screaming.
I didn’t even know if it would work, but I had to do something. The guy that did that to the little girl did it on a hot summer day, and I feared it was too cold to make it work. Once I started instinct took over and I’m not even sure what I did.”
Albert laughed, “Time traveler James. You’ve been hanging around me too much. That’s something I would say.”
Jim spoke softly, “Please don’t tell anyone I don’t need people to think I’m a freak or something.”
Albert insisted, “You’re not a freak James. We’re heroes James we saved a boy’s life today.”
The children had ran and told everyone they could about the man with long hair that brought Tommy back to life. By the time Jim and Albert got to the Boardinghouse most of the town knew what Jim did. Emily had brought the story home to the Boardinghouse. Suzy knew the Sheriff was Albert, so the man with the long hair had to be Jim. She also knew everyone at the Boardinghouse would know that.
By the time Albert and Jim got home Suzy was furious. “As they came in the door Suzy took Jim by the arm and drug him out on the porch. Henry and Emily watched through the kitchen window as Suzy yelled at Jim.
Suzy questioned, “What did you do?”
Jim whispered, “It was a ten or eleven year old boy. All I did was CPR on him.”
Suzy slapped Jim and yelled, “What the hell were you thinking? You have any idea of what this could do?”
Jim whispered, “Their watching us through the kitchen window.”
Suzy continued at a whisper, “You just sent a title wave through the time passages. Hell what if that boy grows up and marries your great grandmother. Then you wouldn’t even be here. Did you think about that?”
Jim replied, “No all I thought was that little boy was dyeing and I had to do something.”
Just then Albert stepped out on the porch and requested, “Jim could you give us a minute”
Jim assured, “Sure.” Then he went inside.
Albert questioned, “What’s the matter Suzan?
Suzy replied, “Its James, he’s always doing stupid shit. This thing has everyone thinking he has some kind of power over death or something. What if the boy died? Then they would think James killed the boy for doing what he did.”
Albert assured, “That would never have happen. I was there, we saved a boy today and that’s it. Let’s go inside.”
Inside Albert announced, “Everyone gather around I need someone to go get Mable and Amos. I want to tell everyone this at once.”
Soon everyone was gathered around and Albert announced, “You all know James and I saved a boy from Drowning. There was no more to it than that. The stories the School children are telling are not true. We don’t need James and Suzan’s life turned upside down by this. If I’m asked the man with the long hair was Wild Bill Hickok. I expect everyone here to tell people the same. Now it’s done, and we need not talk about it anymore.”
As they approached a group of kids we’re standing looking at the swimming hole.
Then Albert yelled, “What the hell! Stop the wagon!”
Jim stopped the wagon as Albert jumped down dropping his gun belt to the ground. Then he ran to the swimming hole. Jim could see a kid floundering in the middle of the swimming hole. Jim thought, Oh my God it’s too cold and hypothermia is setting in.”
Then Jim watched the boy go down, as Albert jumped in. Jim dropped the rains, and ran to the swimming hole. Albert was dragging the boy out as Jim arrived. Putting his ear to the boy’s chest Albert listened for a heartbeat.
Albert whispered, “He’s gone.”
Jim yelled a desperate cry, “Nooo!”
And he pushed Albert to the side. Then he kneeled down and pressed his fingers on his neck. There was no pulse, so he tipped the boy’s head back and started mouth to mouth. Then chest compressions, as he questioned, “What is his name?”
A little girl informed, “Its Tommy, but its Billy’s fault. He threw Tommy’s new knife in the swimming hole.
Jim went back to mouth to mouth. Then to chest compressions, as he begged, “Tommy come back we need you here. We’re all here Tommy come on back.”
Then there was a jerk and Tommy spit up water. Jim rolled Tommy on his side. Then Jim took off his Jacket and wrapped it around Tommy.
Looking at Albert shivering Jim demanded, “We have to get somewhere warm. Like right now.”
Albert blurted, “The Peterson’s place just up the road.”
Jim took the little eighty pound boy in his arms, and held him tight as he ran to the wagon. Albert retrieved the rains from the ground, and got on the wagon. Jim flopped in the back with Tommy. Albert gave the rains a whip and yelled, “Yah!”
The wagon took off with Jim and Tommy rolling and bouncing around in the back. Jim was talking to Tommy, “Stay with me Tommy we’re almost there. You have to fight. Fight hard Tommy we all need you.”
Then Albert yelled, “I see smoke coming from the house.”
Pulling the wagon to the door Albert jumped from the wagon and flung the door open yelling, “Sheriff.” Startled Mrs. Peterson looked at Albert as Jim rushed in the door with Tommy. Then he went right to the wood cook stove, and knelled next to the fire box. He held Tommy as close to the stove as possible.
Albert explained, “Its Tommy he fell in the creek.”
Jim instructed, “I need a blanket!”
Mrs. Peterson replied, “Oh for heaven’s sake what was I thinking.”
Then she went through the door to the next room and pulled the blanket from the bed. Jim stripped Tommy’s clothes off and took off his shirt. Then Jim pushed his bare chest against Tommy’s, and wrapped the blanket around them.
Mrs. Peterson insisted, “Albert you need to get out of those wet clothes. I’ll get you a pair of Roy’s pants and a shirt. Roy should be back soon, he’s out checking the fences.”
Jim kept softly talking to Tommy, “We love you so much and need you. Keep fighting Tommy we’re almost there.”
Then Tommy started to shiver, and Jim fell on his back with Tommy on top of him. Jim whispered, “Thank you God for giving Tommy back to us.”
Tommy questioned, “What is this place?”
Jim answered, “You’re at the Peterson’s Tommy. Now just stay quiet and rest.”
Mrs. Peterson gave Albert the clothes and went in the bed room so Albert could change. Then Roy came in the door complaining, “Whose wagon is that out there. They didn’t even set the break on the damn thing.”
Seeing Albert and Jim with Tommy lying on top of Jim Roy questioned, “What the hell’s going on around here?”
Roy’s wife Abigail announced opening the door, “Tommy fell in the creek and they brought him here.”
Roy questioned, “Well is he going to be all right?”
Jim assured, “I think so. He’s shivering now.”
Abigail confessed, “He was life less and I thought he was dead when they came in.”
Roy insisted, “Well someone needs to get the Wilson’s over here to pick up their boy.”
Just then there was a knock at the door. Opening the door Roy saw Daniel holding out the Sheriff’s gun belt. The boy informed, “The Sheriff left his gun at the swimming hole.”
Taking the gun Roy instructed, “Go tell Tommy’s mom and dad to come and get him. Tell then to bring dry clothes and a blanket. Well go boy.”
The boy took off and Roy shut the door. Handing Albert his gun Roy commented, “My shirt looks tight on you.”
Jim slipped away from Tommy and pulled his coat from him. Then Jim wrapped the blanket tight around Tommy. Jim buttoned up his shirt and put on his coat. Then Jim informed, “Some broth would be nice or a cup of hot water with sugar in it.”
Abigail looked at the boy and smiled, “I’ve got some hot water on the stove for tea. I could put a spoon of sugar in it. That’s the way I like it what do you think Tommy?”
Tommy smiled and with a shaky voice replied, “Please.”
Jim insisted, “I think he’ll be fine now.”
Looking at Jim Roy insisted, “I didn’t get your name.”
Jim replied, “Wild Bill Hickok.”
Picking up his wet clothes Albert laughed, “Come on James. Let’s go.”
Roy announced, “Albert, James, see you around.
Jim turned on his way out and disclosed, “Pleased to meet you Roy, Mrs. Peterson.”
In the wagon Albert disclosed, “We’re not getting the wood today. Head back to the house so I can change.”
On the way back Albert questioned, “How the hell did you do that? The boy was dead I checked him myself. Last I knew when you stop breathing and have no hart beat you’re dead, and one other thing. I took one of the bullets from your gun belt last night. I shot it behind the Blacksmith shop this morning, and sure enough no smoke came out. That means Benjamin was right no smoke comes out of your gun. How are you going to explain this?”
Jim took a deep breath and thought, Sometimes the truth is stranger than fiction, and no one believes it.
With that thought Jim confessed, “I’m a time traveler.”
Albert broke out laughing so hard he almost fell off the wagon. Then he questioned, “No really, how are you going to explain this?”
Jim told the truth, “I don’t know about the bullets they were that way when I got them. As for the boy my heart went out to him being so small. I just couldn’t let him die like that. I just did what I saw once. I watched a guy do that to a little girl as the mother was screaming.
I didn’t even know if it would work, but I had to do something. The guy that did that to the little girl did it on a hot summer day, and I feared it was too cold to make it work. Once I started instinct took over and I’m not even sure what I did.”
Albert laughed, “Time traveler James. You’ve been hanging around me too much. That’s something I would say.”
Jim spoke softly, “Please don’t tell anyone I don’t need people to think I’m a freak or something.”
Albert insisted, “You’re not a freak James. We’re heroes James we saved a boy’s life today.”
The children had ran and told everyone they could about the man with long hair that brought Tommy back to life. By the time Jim and Albert got to the Boardinghouse most of the town knew what Jim did. Emily had brought the story home to the Boardinghouse. Suzy knew the Sheriff was Albert, so the man with the long hair had to be Jim. She also knew everyone at the Boardinghouse would know that.
By the time Albert and Jim got home Suzy was furious. “As they came in the door Suzy took Jim by the arm and drug him out on the porch. Henry and Emily watched through the kitchen window as Suzy yelled at Jim.
Suzy questioned, “What did you do?”
Jim whispered, “It was a ten or eleven year old boy. All I did was CPR on him.”
Suzy slapped Jim and yelled, “What the hell were you thinking? You have any idea of what this could do?”
Jim whispered, “Their watching us through the kitchen window.”
Suzy continued at a whisper, “You just sent a title wave through the time passages. Hell what if that boy grows up and marries your great grandmother. Then you wouldn’t even be here. Did you think about that?”
Jim replied, “No all I thought was that little boy was dyeing and I had to do something.”
Just then Albert stepped out on the porch and requested, “Jim could you give us a minute”
Jim assured, “Sure.” Then he went inside.
Albert questioned, “What’s the matter Suzan?
Suzy replied, “Its James, he’s always doing stupid shit. This thing has everyone thinking he has some kind of power over death or something. What if the boy died? Then they would think James killed the boy for doing what he did.”
Albert assured, “That would never have happen. I was there, we saved a boy today and that’s it. Let’s go inside.”
Inside Albert announced, “Everyone gather around I need someone to go get Mable and Amos. I want to tell everyone this at once.”
Soon everyone was gathered around and Albert announced, “You all know James and I saved a boy from Drowning. There was no more to it than that. The stories the School children are telling are not true. We don’t need James and Suzan’s life turned upside down by this. If I’m asked the man with the long hair was Wild Bill Hickok. I expect everyone here to tell people the same. Now it’s done, and we need not talk about it anymore.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Twelve - Dead or Alive
The next day Suzy put on her dress then she came to breakfast. Everyone was dressed in their Sunday best, and Hank was sitting next to Emily. Surprised Suzy whispered to Benjamin, “Why’s Hank here?”
Benjamin whispered, “He’s here every Sunday. He walks Emily to church. Then he stays for dinner.”
Jim came to the table and sat next to Suzy. She was upset that Jim wasn’t going to church, but Suzy understood why. Jim had promised to go next Sunday after he got his hair cut. Suzy also knew Benjamin wasn’t going either. He was going to tend to smoking the meat.
Then Albert questioned, “Jim, you mind if I walk your wife to church?”
Jim replied, “That would be nice Albert. Thank you.”
Albert replied, “It’s an honor Jim. I understand what is going on here. Now Rebecca down there will have something to write about. I can see it now. Sheriff having an affair with married woman. He’s been seen parading her down Main Street.”
Rebecca laughed, “You just want your name in the paper Albert.”
Jim Smiled, “Go for it Albert see if you can turn a few heads.”
Finishing the last of her pancake Suzy got up from the table and questioned, “You ready Albert?”
Albert pushed back his chair and got up putting out his arm. Suzy took a hold of his muscular bicep, and they went out the door.”
As they walked Albert insisted, “You look nice in a dress Suzan. I like the way you dress everyday too, but being a woman is one mark against you. Then being out spoken like you are is another. However dressing like that scares the hell out of people. That’s why people accept you, because their afraid to say anything. You know they whisper behind your back.”
Suzy informed, “Let them talk all they want. They’re just jealous because they can’t dress like that. I’d tell them learn to shoot and ride like a man, and where the clothes.”
Back at the Boardinghouse everyone pitched in and did the dishes. Then they left for church. Jim and Benjamin were down at the smoker. Benjamin knelled down giving the coals a steer as he questioned, “Just between you and me what really happened? The story goes that you blew in his mouth and pounded on his chest. Then you called him back to life.”
Jim freaked out and jumped to his feet. “What the hell! Is that what people think? Tell me Benjamin! Is this what everyone believes?”
Benjamin was taken back by Jim’s concern. Finely Benjamin spoke softly, “The story came from a bunch of kids Jim. What do you expect from kids? We’re talking about eight to twelve year old’s here. That’s why I ask what really happened.”
Jim calmed down and replied, “No one was dead, and yes I blew in his mouth to help him breathe. Then I pushed on his chest to get the water out, and I talked to him. I wanted him to know he was not alone, and we were helping him. We did save his life thank God. The way you tell the story it makes me sound like a Witch or something.”
Benjamin whispered, “Witches are women.”
Jim barked, “OK Warlock then, and yes I know that stuff. I’m smart but that don’t change a thing. I’m still the same guy I have always been.”
Benjamin went on, “I didn’t think you had the power over life and death if you must know. I do want to know where you got your clothes.”
Jim replied, “You would have to ask Suzan. She had them custom made, and yes they were made on a Sewing Machine. We had a lot of money, but it’s all gone and we’re starting over.”
Walking back to the house Benjamin mumbled, “Did she get the pattern from a catalog or something?”
Jim replied, “No she worked with the lady with the Sewing Machine, and made them to custom fit both of us. She wanted us to match as if we were one. Women have a different shape than men. A man’s clothes are tight and baggy in all the wrong places for a woman. She had to have hers made to fit her.”
Benjamin Insisted, “There wouldn’t be a market for Women, but for men I think it might be great. Do you mind if I do a sketch of you with your coat and Hat?”
Jim replied, “Sure, I’ll go to my room and get my coat.”
Benjamin divulged, “I’ll go to my room and get some paper and meet you at the table.”
Rebecca couldn’t let a story like this go. It didn’t matter what Albert said. Rebecca was a news reporter and this was a story. After church when everyone gathered out front to swap stories. Rebecca found the little girl, and questioned what children were at the swimming hole. The girl told how Billy got mad and threw Tommy’s new knife in the swimming hole. Then Tommy went after it, but he couldn’t make it. The Sheriff had to save him, but he wasn’t moving. The other man blew in Tommy’s mouth and pushed on his chest telling him to come back. Then Tommy spit out water, and the man took Tommy to the wagon. The Sheriff drove off fast on the wagon. Carl picked up the Sheriff’s gun. I told him not to touch it, but he took it anyway.
Rebecca smiled, “Here’s a nickel Annie to buy some candy with. Just point to Carl and it’s yours.”
Annie pointed and Rebecca let go of the nickel. Then she walked to the other side of the group of people. Where three boys were talking, and questioned witch one of you is Carl? Carl replied, “It’s me.”
Rebecca informed, “I’ll give you a nickel if you tell me about the Sheriff’s gun.”
Carl explained, “The Sheriff dropped it on the ground when he went in for Tommy. Then he forgot it when he left, so I took it to him.”
Rebecca questioned, “And where was that Carl?”
Carl divulged, “At the Peterson’s house.”
Rebecca smiled and gave Carl the nickel.
As they all came back from church the ladies went to the kitchen and the men went out to the back porch. Henry was enjoying his pipe, Hank was sitting in Victoria’s Chair and Albert was leaning against a post. They were talking about the chicken Hank brought for dinner.
Then Jim and Benjamin walked up from the smoke house. Jim questioned, “How did church go Albert?”
Albert replied, “I don’t know I was too busy strutting Suzan around like the head Rooster in the hen house. The entire town will be talking about it tomorrow.”
Jim laughed, “Then you had a good time. Thank you Albert.”
Hank inquired, “Henry told me you needed some money for boarding your horses. I have some supplies that need delivered. I was thinking if you wanted you could pick up a load tomorrow afternoon. I can’t pay you much, but you know every little bit helps. If you wish I could take it off your bill.”
Jim questioned, “What bill I don’t owe you anything.
Hank inquired, “You mean you don’t have an account and owe me money? Everybody around here owes me money.”
Henry jumped in, “Give him time Hank. James hasn’t even been here a week.”
They had their Fried chicken dinner with potatoes gravy and beans. Suzy made the Bread Pudding for dessert. After dinner Hank and Emily went out on the porch and said their goodbye’s
That night in bed Suzy talk to Jim. “I’m sorry I got so mad about the boy. I was right you know about what saving him could do. There’s no end to what could happen he could grow up to be a Hitler. We have to be careful about what we change even if we can’t go back. We just have to live a life with as little impact as possible.
I love cooking with Victoria. She’s letting me do more all the time. I made the dessert today. I know the recipe in my head now it’s, Bread, Milk, Eggs, Butter, Sugar and a little bit of Cinnamon. I added some of our Raisins to make it different.”
Jim was fast asleep as Suzy whispered, “I love you Jim. May you dream of love and all that comes with it.”
The next day Benjamin took Jim to see the Barber, and Rebecca rented a buggy from Henry. Jim got his hair cut short and got a shave. Then they went and got the team. Suzy insisted Jim learn to hook up the team.
Suzy instructed, “You take Patty and I’ll take Charlie. You just do what I do”
Step by step Jim did just what Suzy did. Then they hooked the team together and to the tongue. Then Jim was off to the store.
Jim went around the corner. Then he looked through the store window and saw a man pointing a gun at Emily. Hank was
lying Face down on the floor, so he pulled the wagon next to the loading dock. Setting the break he eased his way across the dock to the back room. Peeking through a gap in the curtain Jim heard the man say, “Give me the rest of the money. I know you have more than what’s in the register.”
Then Jim saw Emily removing the cash box from under the counter. Sneaking up behind the man Jim pulled his gun. Then he pulled back the hammer with a click as he pushed the gun against the back of the robbers head.
Then Jim exclaimed, “It seems we have a situation here. I was rabbit hunting this morning and I can’t remember if I fired five or six shots. So the question is. Do you feel lucky?”
The man dropped the gun to the floor. Then Jim quickly raised the gun in the air and hit the man in the back of the head with the butt. The robbers eyes rolled back, his Knees buckled, and he fell to the floor. Putting his foot on his back Jim kept the gun pointed at him.
Hank jumped up and announced, “I’ll get some rope to tie him up.”
Emily fell on her butt and looked at Jim as she took a deep breath, “Thank God James, I thought I was dead for Sure.”
Tying his hands behind his back Hank exclaimed, “This is Jack Callen’s the notorious gunmen. He’s wanted for kidnapping, Murder and Robbery.”
Looking up at Emily Hank ordered, “Go get Albert and tell him we caught Jack Callen’s.”
Arriving at the blacksmith shop out of breath Emily gasped, “Albert! Jack Callen tried to rob the store. Hank and Jim have him tied up and sent me to get you.”
Grabbing his gun and a set of shackles hanging on the wall Albert blurted, “Let’s go Emily.”
Coming in the door Albert announced, “I hear you think you caught the infamous Jack Callen. Holy shit I think that’s him. How the hell did you do that?”
Hank responded, “Jim did it. Jack was robbing the store, and Jim Sneaked up behind him and knocked him out.”
The next day Suzy put on her dress then she came to breakfast. Everyone was dressed in their Sunday best, and Hank was sitting next to Emily. Surprised Suzy whispered to Benjamin, “Why’s Hank here?”
Benjamin whispered, “He’s here every Sunday. He walks Emily to church. Then he stays for dinner.”
Jim came to the table and sat next to Suzy. She was upset that Jim wasn’t going to church, but Suzy understood why. Jim had promised to go next Sunday after he got his hair cut. Suzy also knew Benjamin wasn’t going either. He was going to tend to smoking the meat.
Then Albert questioned, “Jim, you mind if I walk your wife to church?”
Jim replied, “That would be nice Albert. Thank you.”
Albert replied, “It’s an honor Jim. I understand what is going on here. Now Rebecca down there will have something to write about. I can see it now. Sheriff having an affair with married woman. He’s been seen parading her down Main Street.”
Rebecca laughed, “You just want your name in the paper Albert.”
Jim Smiled, “Go for it Albert see if you can turn a few heads.”
Finishing the last of her pancake Suzy got up from the table and questioned, “You ready Albert?”
Albert pushed back his chair and got up putting out his arm. Suzy took a hold of his muscular bicep, and they went out the door.”
As they walked Albert insisted, “You look nice in a dress Suzan. I like the way you dress everyday too, but being a woman is one mark against you. Then being out spoken like you are is another. However dressing like that scares the hell out of people. That’s why people accept you, because their afraid to say anything. You know they whisper behind your back.”
Suzy informed, “Let them talk all they want. They’re just jealous because they can’t dress like that. I’d tell them learn to shoot and ride like a man, and where the clothes.”
Back at the Boardinghouse everyone pitched in and did the dishes. Then they left for church. Jim and Benjamin were down at the smoker. Benjamin knelled down giving the coals a steer as he questioned, “Just between you and me what really happened? The story goes that you blew in his mouth and pounded on his chest. Then you called him back to life.”
Jim freaked out and jumped to his feet. “What the hell! Is that what people think? Tell me Benjamin! Is this what everyone believes?”
Benjamin was taken back by Jim’s concern. Finely Benjamin spoke softly, “The story came from a bunch of kids Jim. What do you expect from kids? We’re talking about eight to twelve year old’s here. That’s why I ask what really happened.”
Jim calmed down and replied, “No one was dead, and yes I blew in his mouth to help him breathe. Then I pushed on his chest to get the water out, and I talked to him. I wanted him to know he was not alone, and we were helping him. We did save his life thank God. The way you tell the story it makes me sound like a Witch or something.”
Benjamin whispered, “Witches are women.”
Jim barked, “OK Warlock then, and yes I know that stuff. I’m smart but that don’t change a thing. I’m still the same guy I have always been.”
Benjamin went on, “I didn’t think you had the power over life and death if you must know. I do want to know where you got your clothes.”
Jim replied, “You would have to ask Suzan. She had them custom made, and yes they were made on a Sewing Machine. We had a lot of money, but it’s all gone and we’re starting over.”
Walking back to the house Benjamin mumbled, “Did she get the pattern from a catalog or something?”
Jim replied, “No she worked with the lady with the Sewing Machine, and made them to custom fit both of us. She wanted us to match as if we were one. Women have a different shape than men. A man’s clothes are tight and baggy in all the wrong places for a woman. She had to have hers made to fit her.”
Benjamin Insisted, “There wouldn’t be a market for Women, but for men I think it might be great. Do you mind if I do a sketch of you with your coat and Hat?”Jim replied, “Sure, I’ll go to my room and get my coat.”
Benjamin divulged, “I’ll go to my room and get some paper and meet you at the table.”
Rebecca couldn’t let a story like this go. It didn’t matter what Albert said. Rebecca was a news reporter and this was a story. After church when everyone gathered out front to swap stories. Rebecca found the little girl, and questioned what children were at the swimming hole. The girl told how Billy got mad and threw Tommy’s new knife in the swimming hole. Then Tommy went after it, but he couldn’t make it. The Sheriff had to save him, but he wasn’t moving. The other man blew in Tommy’s mouth and pushed on his chest telling him to come back. Then Tommy spit out water, and the man took Tommy to the wagon. The Sheriff drove off fast on the wagon. Carl picked up the Sheriff’s gun. I told him not to touch it, but he took it anyway.
Rebecca smiled, “Here’s a nickel Annie to buy some candy with. Just point to Carl and it’s yours.”
Annie pointed and Rebecca let go of the nickel. Then she walked to the other side of the group of people. Where three boys were talking, and questioned witch one of you is Carl? Carl replied, “It’s me.”
Rebecca informed, “I’ll give you a nickel if you tell me about the Sheriff’s gun.”
Carl explained, “The Sheriff dropped it on the ground when he went in for Tommy. Then he forgot it when he left, so I took it to him.”
Rebecca questioned, “And where was that Carl?”
Carl divulged, “At the Peterson’s house.”
Rebecca smiled and gave Carl the nickel.
As they all came back from church the ladies went to the kitchen and the men went out to the back porch. Henry was enjoying his pipe, Hank was sitting in Victoria’s Chair and Albert was leaning against a post. They were talking about the chicken Hank brought for dinner.Then Jim and Benjamin walked up from the smoke house. Jim questioned, “How did church go Albert?”
Albert replied, “I don’t know I was too busy strutting Suzan around like the head Rooster in the hen house. The entire town will be talking about it tomorrow.”
Jim laughed, “Then you had a good time. Thank you Albert.”
Hank inquired, “Henry told me you needed some money for boarding your horses. I have some supplies that need delivered. I was thinking if you wanted you could pick up a load tomorrow afternoon. I can’t pay you much, but you know every little bit helps. If you wish I could take it off your bill.”
Jim questioned, “What bill I don’t owe you anything.
Hank inquired, “You mean you don’t have an account and owe me money? Everybody around here owes me money.”
Henry jumped in, “Give him time Hank. James hasn’t even been here a week.”
They had their Fried chicken dinner with potatoes gravy and beans. Suzy made the Bread Pudding for dessert. After dinner Hank and Emily went out on the porch and said their goodbye’s
That night in bed Suzy talk to Jim. “I’m sorry I got so mad about the boy. I was right you know about what saving him could do. There’s no end to what could happen he could grow up to be a Hitler. We have to be careful about what we change even if we can’t go back. We just have to live a life with as little impact as possible.
I love cooking with Victoria. She’s letting me do more all the time. I made the dessert today. I know the recipe in my head now it’s, Bread, Milk, Eggs, Butter, Sugar and a little bit of Cinnamon. I added some of our Raisins to make it different.”
Jim was fast asleep as Suzy whispered, “I love you Jim. May you dream of love and all that comes with it.”
The next day Benjamin took Jim to see the Barber, and Rebecca rented a buggy from Henry. Jim got his hair cut short and got a shave. Then they went and got the team. Suzy insisted Jim learn to hook up the team.Suzy instructed, “You take Patty and I’ll take Charlie. You just do what I do”
Step by step Jim did just what Suzy did. Then they hooked the team together and to the tongue. Then Jim was off to the store.
Jim went around the corner. Then he looked through the store window and saw a man pointing a gun at Emily. Hank was
lying Face down on the floor, so he pulled the wagon next to the loading dock. Setting the break he eased his way across the dock to the back room. Peeking through a gap in the curtain Jim heard the man say, “Give me the rest of the money. I know you have more than what’s in the register.”Then Jim saw Emily removing the cash box from under the counter. Sneaking up behind the man Jim pulled his gun. Then he pulled back the hammer with a click as he pushed the gun against the back of the robbers head.
Then Jim exclaimed, “It seems we have a situation here. I was rabbit hunting this morning and I can’t remember if I fired five or six shots. So the question is. Do you feel lucky?”
The man dropped the gun to the floor. Then Jim quickly raised the gun in the air and hit the man in the back of the head with the butt. The robbers eyes rolled back, his Knees buckled, and he fell to the floor. Putting his foot on his back Jim kept the gun pointed at him.
Hank jumped up and announced, “I’ll get some rope to tie him up.”
Emily fell on her butt and looked at Jim as she took a deep breath, “Thank God James, I thought I was dead for Sure.”
Tying his hands behind his back Hank exclaimed, “This is Jack Callen’s the notorious gunmen. He’s wanted for kidnapping, Murder and Robbery.”Looking up at Emily Hank ordered, “Go get Albert and tell him we caught Jack Callen’s.”
Arriving at the blacksmith shop out of breath Emily gasped, “Albert! Jack Callen tried to rob the store. Hank and Jim have him tied up and sent me to get you.”
Grabbing his gun and a set of shackles hanging on the wall Albert blurted, “Let’s go Emily.”
Coming in the door Albert announced, “I hear you think you caught the infamous Jack Callen. Holy shit I think that’s him. How the hell did you do that?”
Hank responded, “Jim did it. Jack was robbing the store, and Jim Sneaked up behind him and knocked him out.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Emily interjected, “Now Hank you know that’s not true. Jim told him a wild story that made him drop his gun first.”
Albert put on the shackles and responded with a smile, “Looks like Jim and I are going to Lambert to turn Jack over to the Marshal, and put in for his thousand dollar reward.”
Emily informed, “I’ll tell Suzan James. She is going to be so proud of you.”
Albert instructed, “Grab one arm James and I’ll take the other, then we can drag him to your wagon.” Then he instructed, “Emily tell Suzan we won’t be back until tomorrow. It will be too late to come back tonight, and we’ll spend the night in Lambert.”
Rolling Jack’s lifeless body in the wagon Albert questioned, “What about this coal-oil can James?”
Jim announced, “Hand me the can I’ll take care of it.”
Jim ran the can in to Emily and explained, “Here is a quarter. You need to get coal-oil for the house. Give Victoria the change.”
With a smile Emily replied, “Sure I’ll do your job for you.”
Heading out Jim mumbled, “Save someone’s life, and they make you feel indebted to them.”
At the wagon Albert instructed, “Stop by the shop so I can close up. Then we’re on our way.”
Rebecca went to the Peterson farm and talked to Mrs. Peterson about Tommy. Rebecca was sure this would give her a head line. That was something she’d been trying to get since she got the job. She asked Mrs. Peterson what happened that day.
Abigail recalled, “I was just about to have a cup of tea. When the door flew open and Mr. Blocker yelled Sheriff. Then this long haired man came in caring Tommy. The child was lifeless, and I thought he might be dead. He went over and sat next to the woodstove holding the child tight to his bare chest. With his coat wrapped tight around the child. He was talking to him the whole time saying things like we love you Tommy, you have to fight Tommy, and hang on just a little longer Tommy we need you.
At first I thought he was the father. He showed so much love and concern for the child as if he was his own. He held the child and rocked him until the child started to shiver. I could hear the child’s teeth chattering. Then the man fell back on his back and gave thanks to God. Then he asked me to give the child something hot to drink. I knew the boy’s name was Tommy but when I saw the boy’s face I knew it was Tommy Wilson. After they were sure Tommy was going to be all right. They left.”
Rebecca questioned, “Did you get the long haired man’s name?”
Abigail replied, “He said he was Wild Bill Hickok.”
They laughed about that and enjoyed some tea, and Rebecca left.
There were over half way when Jim questioned, “You think he’s going to be all right he hasn’t come too yet?”
Albert grumbled, “It doesn’t matter. The sick bastard can die for all I care. He’s wanted dead or alive, so it don’t matter how he gets there. There just going to hang him anyway”
Jim replied, “I just don’t want to be the one that kills him.”
`Albert growled, “He’s ruthless and would kill you without a thought.”
Just then Jack woke up and started yelling. Thrashing around in the back of the wagon he yelled, “I’m going to kill you!”
Albert yelled, “Shut the hell up! Don’t make me shoot you.”
Finely they made it to Lambert. At the jail Albert went in, and Jim guarded Jack. Inside Bill saw Albert and exclaimed, “What the hell brings you down here Albert?”
Albert informed, “We got a prisoner for you Marshal.”
Bill questioned, “Must be someone special for you to bring them here.”
Albert replied, “Is the notorious Jack Callen special enough for you.”
Bill insisted, “No way. You must be pulling my leg.”
Albert insisted, “Right out in the back of the wagon. Take a look for yourself.”
Bill yelled, “Deputy! Get out here we got a prisoner.”
Going outside Billed looked at Jack in the back of the wagon. Then he commented, “You had to hog tie him?”
Albert insisted, “Hog tie and knock him out. This is one wiled son of a bitch.”
The Deputy questioned, “Oh crap is that Jack Callen?”
Jim came down from the wagon and the four men dragged Jack screaming and jerking into a cell. Then they did the paperwork.
Bill informed, “I’ll send for the judge and the reward from Wells Fargo. I’m sure they will send a man on the stage to deal with this personally.”
Albert questioned, “You want to go across the street and get a room and dinner first, or take the team to the Livery first?”
Jim replied, “The room and dinner first. I’m starved.”
At the Boardinghouse Rebecca was writing up the story about Jim saving the boy. When Emily darted in handing the change to Victoria she blurted, “”Here is your change. The lamp oil is on the porch. Did you hear what James did?”
Everyone just stared at Emily as she went on, “He caught the infamous Jack Callen. He was robbing the store and had a gun on me. Then James rushed in and put his gun to his head. Then he told him a story that he couldn’t remember how many bullets he had shot 5 or six. Then he asked do you think you’re lucky punk? Jack dropped his gun and James knocked him out.”
Suzy cursed, “Damn it James. The son of a bitch thinks he’s Clint Eastwood!”
Emily begged, “Please don’t be mad Suzan, he saved Hank and I’s life. Jack Callen’s is a killer. He is wanted dead or alive with a thousand dollar reward. He’s killed, kidnaped, and robbed stagecoaches. He’s as bad as it gets, so don’t be mad.”
Rebecca complained, “This is bad! I’ve been working hard on this little boy story, and now this. Now I’m going to be up most the night writing about the robbery. I work hard to get a head line story, and James throws me two at once. I’ll just have to drop the little boy story, and go with the robbery.”
They got a room and went into the restaurant. Then sat at the same table Jim and Suzy sat at when they first got to Lambert. Jim just finished eating when he noticed the lady at the table next to him was choking.
Jim called out, “She’s choking!”
Albert looked and saw she was turning white as a sheet. Jim jumped up and jerked her up from her chair and preformed the Heimlich maneuver. He placed his fist under her ribs and put his other hand over it. Thin he jerked up pulling her feet off the ground, and nothing. He did it again and a piece of meat flew out of her mouth on to the floor. She gasped for air as Jim let her go.
Her husband Jumped up and yelled, “What the hell you doing? Get your hands off my wife. You think just because you have a gun you can do what you want?”
Albert was staring at what he just saw as Jim yelled back, “I just saved your wife’s life you dumb ass. If you’d been paying attention you’d know that.”
The man questioned, “Did he hurt you dear?”
She slapped him and walked away with him following after her. Albert questioned, “How did you do that?”
Jim smiled, “You’ll like this Albert. You’re a blacksmith and know how a bellows works. Put your hand on your chest and breathe in. Your lungs fill up like a bellows full of air. Now we know what happens when we push on the bellows the air blows out. Say I put a cork in the end of the bellows I might have to push hard a few time but the cork will blow out. Well when she was choking that was the cork in the bellows. I just made it pop out.”
Albert disclosed. “Son of a bitch James, I actually understand that. I’ve never seen anything like that, but you know I’ll remember that. I just don’t know what to do with you. In just three days you’ve saved a boy, stopped a robbery, captured a criminal, and saved a lady from choking to death.”
Jim requested, “Please don’t tell Suzan about me saving the lady Albert. She gets mad at me every time I do something like that. She’s afraid people won’t understand and we might have to move. We like it here, and don’t need that.”
Then Jim insisted, “I’m ready to take Charlie and Patty to the Livery.”
Albert put on the shackles and responded with a smile, “Looks like Jim and I are going to Lambert to turn Jack over to the Marshal, and put in for his thousand dollar reward.”
Emily informed, “I’ll tell Suzan James. She is going to be so proud of you.”
Albert instructed, “Grab one arm James and I’ll take the other, then we can drag him to your wagon.” Then he instructed, “Emily tell Suzan we won’t be back until tomorrow. It will be too late to come back tonight, and we’ll spend the night in Lambert.”
Rolling Jack’s lifeless body in the wagon Albert questioned, “What about this coal-oil can James?”
Jim announced, “Hand me the can I’ll take care of it.”
Jim ran the can in to Emily and explained, “Here is a quarter. You need to get coal-oil for the house. Give Victoria the change.”
With a smile Emily replied, “Sure I’ll do your job for you.”
Heading out Jim mumbled, “Save someone’s life, and they make you feel indebted to them.”
At the wagon Albert instructed, “Stop by the shop so I can close up. Then we’re on our way.”
Rebecca went to the Peterson farm and talked to Mrs. Peterson about Tommy. Rebecca was sure this would give her a head line. That was something she’d been trying to get since she got the job. She asked Mrs. Peterson what happened that day.
Abigail recalled, “I was just about to have a cup of tea. When the door flew open and Mr. Blocker yelled Sheriff. Then this long haired man came in caring Tommy. The child was lifeless, and I thought he might be dead. He went over and sat next to the woodstove holding the child tight to his bare chest. With his coat wrapped tight around the child. He was talking to him the whole time saying things like we love you Tommy, you have to fight Tommy, and hang on just a little longer Tommy we need you.
At first I thought he was the father. He showed so much love and concern for the child as if he was his own. He held the child and rocked him until the child started to shiver. I could hear the child’s teeth chattering. Then the man fell back on his back and gave thanks to God. Then he asked me to give the child something hot to drink. I knew the boy’s name was Tommy but when I saw the boy’s face I knew it was Tommy Wilson. After they were sure Tommy was going to be all right. They left.”
Rebecca questioned, “Did you get the long haired man’s name?”
Abigail replied, “He said he was Wild Bill Hickok.”
They laughed about that and enjoyed some tea, and Rebecca left.
There were over half way when Jim questioned, “You think he’s going to be all right he hasn’t come too yet?”
Albert grumbled, “It doesn’t matter. The sick bastard can die for all I care. He’s wanted dead or alive, so it don’t matter how he gets there. There just going to hang him anyway”
Jim replied, “I just don’t want to be the one that kills him.”
`Albert growled, “He’s ruthless and would kill you without a thought.”
Just then Jack woke up and started yelling. Thrashing around in the back of the wagon he yelled, “I’m going to kill you!”
Albert yelled, “Shut the hell up! Don’t make me shoot you.”
Finely they made it to Lambert. At the jail Albert went in, and Jim guarded Jack. Inside Bill saw Albert and exclaimed, “What the hell brings you down here Albert?”
Albert informed, “We got a prisoner for you Marshal.”
Bill questioned, “Must be someone special for you to bring them here.”
Albert replied, “Is the notorious Jack Callen special enough for you.”
Bill insisted, “No way. You must be pulling my leg.”
Albert insisted, “Right out in the back of the wagon. Take a look for yourself.”
Bill yelled, “Deputy! Get out here we got a prisoner.”
Going outside Billed looked at Jack in the back of the wagon. Then he commented, “You had to hog tie him?”
Albert insisted, “Hog tie and knock him out. This is one wiled son of a bitch.”
The Deputy questioned, “Oh crap is that Jack Callen?”
Jim came down from the wagon and the four men dragged Jack screaming and jerking into a cell. Then they did the paperwork.
Bill informed, “I’ll send for the judge and the reward from Wells Fargo. I’m sure they will send a man on the stage to deal with this personally.”
Albert questioned, “You want to go across the street and get a room and dinner first, or take the team to the Livery first?”
Jim replied, “The room and dinner first. I’m starved.”
At the Boardinghouse Rebecca was writing up the story about Jim saving the boy. When Emily darted in handing the change to Victoria she blurted, “”Here is your change. The lamp oil is on the porch. Did you hear what James did?”
Everyone just stared at Emily as she went on, “He caught the infamous Jack Callen. He was robbing the store and had a gun on me. Then James rushed in and put his gun to his head. Then he told him a story that he couldn’t remember how many bullets he had shot 5 or six. Then he asked do you think you’re lucky punk? Jack dropped his gun and James knocked him out.”
Suzy cursed, “Damn it James. The son of a bitch thinks he’s Clint Eastwood!”
Emily begged, “Please don’t be mad Suzan, he saved Hank and I’s life. Jack Callen’s is a killer. He is wanted dead or alive with a thousand dollar reward. He’s killed, kidnaped, and robbed stagecoaches. He’s as bad as it gets, so don’t be mad.”
Rebecca complained, “This is bad! I’ve been working hard on this little boy story, and now this. Now I’m going to be up most the night writing about the robbery. I work hard to get a head line story, and James throws me two at once. I’ll just have to drop the little boy story, and go with the robbery.”
They got a room and went into the restaurant. Then sat at the same table Jim and Suzy sat at when they first got to Lambert. Jim just finished eating when he noticed the lady at the table next to him was choking.
Jim called out, “She’s choking!”
Albert looked and saw she was turning white as a sheet. Jim jumped up and jerked her up from her chair and preformed the Heimlich maneuver. He placed his fist under her ribs and put his other hand over it. Thin he jerked up pulling her feet off the ground, and nothing. He did it again and a piece of meat flew out of her mouth on to the floor. She gasped for air as Jim let her go.
Her husband Jumped up and yelled, “What the hell you doing? Get your hands off my wife. You think just because you have a gun you can do what you want?”
Albert was staring at what he just saw as Jim yelled back, “I just saved your wife’s life you dumb ass. If you’d been paying attention you’d know that.”
The man questioned, “Did he hurt you dear?”
She slapped him and walked away with him following after her. Albert questioned, “How did you do that?”
Jim smiled, “You’ll like this Albert. You’re a blacksmith and know how a bellows works. Put your hand on your chest and breathe in. Your lungs fill up like a bellows full of air. Now we know what happens when we push on the bellows the air blows out. Say I put a cork in the end of the bellows I might have to push hard a few time but the cork will blow out. Well when she was choking that was the cork in the bellows. I just made it pop out.”
Albert disclosed. “Son of a bitch James, I actually understand that. I’ve never seen anything like that, but you know I’ll remember that. I just don’t know what to do with you. In just three days you’ve saved a boy, stopped a robbery, captured a criminal, and saved a lady from choking to death.”
Jim requested, “Please don’t tell Suzan about me saving the lady Albert. She gets mad at me every time I do something like that. She’s afraid people won’t understand and we might have to move. We like it here, and don’t need that.”
Then Jim insisted, “I’m ready to take Charlie and Patty to the Livery.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Thirteen – The Plow
The next day back at the Boardinghouse Suzy was in the kitchen, and Benjamin, Henry, and Emily were having a pancake at the table. When Benjamin whispered, “Do you know Suzan has a pet bird?”
Emily replied, “You mean the crow? I’ve seen her feeding it her bread from my window.”
Benjamin went on, “It showed up the day they arrived. It’s always sitting in the tree watching Suzan through the kitchen window. I was coming back from the smoker yesterday, and I swear it was on her lap. Suzan was talking to the bird and petting it. I think it followed them from where ever they came from.”
Henry whispered, “So she has a pet bird. What’s wrong with that Benjamin?
Benjamin replied, “It’s a crow Henry.”
Henry teased. “Don’t tell me you’re superstitious Benjamin?”
Benjamin replied, “You know everyone thinks Mrs. Hanson’s a Witch.”
Emily spoke up, “Benjamin! Edna comes in the store all the time. Just because she buy’s some strange things and is eccentric don’t make her a witch. She’s rich and that dose that to people. Heck you can’t buy a pace of beef in this town that isn’t Hanson beef. You know you’re a little eccentric yourself Benjamin. I have to go to work.”
Emily got up and left as Henry informed, “I think you pissed her off Benjamin, but you didn’t know she had a pet squirrel she’d feed in the backyard. I think it died over the winter, because it didn’t come back this year.”
It was just about lunch time when Albert and Jim came in the back door. Albert announced, “The rich guy’s here.”
Jim exclaimed, “I haven’t seen a penny of that money yet.”
Then Jim saw Suzy standing at the edge of the kitchen with an apron on, and her hands on her hips. With an evil look Suzy questioned, “Clint Eastwood James? Really James how could you do that. You could have been killed. What the hell where you thinking. I thought we talked about this. The only reason I’m not mad as hell is you saved Emily from that sick bastard. Now get over here and give me a hug and tell me you’re sorry.”
Jim gave Suzy a hug and squeezed her tight as he whispered in her ear, “I missed you so much.”
Rebecca came through the room saying, “Got to catch the stagecoach for my story.”
Going out the back door she called out, “Don’t worry James I was kind.”
Suzy slipped away as she whispered, “You’re famous you know. Hope you can take it.”
Victoria knew Suzy was feeding the bird. She’d been watching her do it from the first day they arrived. So Victoria took a slice of bread out to Suzy and insisted, “Feed your friend sweetie.”
Then Victoria sat in her chair, and watched Suzy tear off peace’s of bread and toss it out for the bird. Albert came out and sat on the bench next to Victoria. Watching Suzy Albert explained, “I saw you had supper on the table, but I need to wind down some. I can’t eat right now. In fact I don’t even think I’m going to open the shop today. I see we have a new friend.”
Victoria replied, “I just hope she don’t go through a big letdown like Emily went through this spring with her squirrel.”
Albert agreed, “Yes love can hurt, but somehow we keep going. I don’t think that kind of wound ever heels. It’s been six year since my wife was taken by Smallpox, and it still hurts when I think about her.”
That night when Suzy and Jim went to bed Suzy question, “What was with the Clint Eastwood quote?
Jim replied, “Courage is being scared to death but doing it anyway. I always wanted to say that, so well I had the courage it just came out. The truth is I was scared to death, but I had to do it. I had no idea he was a rootless killer. I know people will think I did it for the reward, but I didn’t even know there was one.
I was thinking I should pay for a year’s boarding for the horses, and was thinking about the water pump you read about in the paper. I think we should look at getting the stuff for that. That would be about half the money, and put the other half in your box.”
Suzy yawned, “We can do that tomorrow. We’ll go see Hank about getting the pump and stuff.”
The next morning after Suzy help Victoria do the breakfast dishes. Suzy and Jim went to the store to see Hank. Emily was helping a lady at the counter. As they approached Hank announced, “Let me help you out with that Mrs. Cooper. Hank picked up the box as she turned around to leave. That is when Jim and Suzy saw her face was all black and blue. Going to the counter Suzy questioned, “What happened to her Emily?”
Emily replied, “Her husband beats her all the time. She always looks like that. I’ve seen her where she almost couldn’t make it in the store it was so bad.”
Suzy questioned, “Why doesn’t she just leave him?”
Emily replied, “She has tried, but he just finds her and drags her back. Then he beats her worse.”
Suzy questioned, “Why doesn’t someone stop him?”
Emily replied, “That’s his wife he has the right to do that?”
Suzy went off like a pressure cooker blowing up, “We’ll see about that.”
Then Suzy stormed out the door with Jim right behind her. She headed straight to the blacksmith shop. Once there she insisted Albert do something about Mr. Cooper beating his wife. Albert told Suzy there was nothing he could do. That it was a private family matter, and he wasn’t allowed to interfere.
Jim was stunned at what he was hearing, and couldn’t believe it. He looked at Albert and questioned, “You mean there is nothing anyone can do.”
Albert dropped his head as he replied, “Only if you challenged him to a duel, but he’d never go for that. Even if he did then you’d have to hope you win. There’s nothing else I can think of.”
Suzy insisted, “You need to go take a look at her Albert. If he keeps beating her like that he’ll kill her.”
Albert said, “I know, it saddens me, but until he dose there is nothing I can do. Then when he dose kill her I’ll arrest him, and he most likely well get three months in jail.
Suzy exploded, “What the hell! I thought they hung people for killing someone?”
Albert replied, “I don’t know where you come from, but here a woman is like a man’s property. A man can pretty much do what he wants with his wife.”
Suzy complained, “I knew things were different in this time, but not barbaric.”
Then she put her hand over her mouth realizing what she just said. Jim put his arm around Suzy and walked her out the door. Outside Suzy insisted, “Give me fifty cents James. I’m renting a horse.”
Suzy went next door and found Henry and rented a horse. Henry had the stable boy bring out a horse. Then the stable boy got a saddle. Suzy jerked it from his hands and slung it on the horse. Pulling the strap tight she exclaimed, “I’ll see you back at the house James.”
Then she gave the horse a kick and rode off. Henry expressed, “She looks mad James.”
Jim replied, “Yep, bet she could saddle up a mountain Loin and ride it about now.”
Henry looked at Jim and questioned, “What did you do now James?”
Jim replied, “Got out of bed I guess.”
Henry busted up, “I’ve had one of those wild horses you can’t break before. I’ll tell you what though; if you can stay on them you’re in for a hell of a ride. All I can tell you is hold on tight James.”
Jim laughed, “I got bucked off a long time ago.”
Jim admitted, “I’m going to spend some of the reward money on a pump for the kitchen. Try to make life a little easier for us. I’m going to go see Hank about it now.”
Henry replied, “See yah later James.”
Suzy road down the street and found Mrs. Cooper sitting on the buckboard in front of the saloon. She stopped her horse got down and tied it to the hitching post. Then she looked up on top of Turners Guns and Hardware at her crow. She went up and looked in the window, as she looked around. Soon Mr. Cooper came from the saloon with a bottle in hand.
Suzy waited for them to leave, and followed them out of town. She hung back as to not be noticed, as the crow guided her. Just as they turned off and headed to their cabin the Crow swooped down and hit the man’s head. Then thousands of crows appeared in the tree tops squawking. The sound was deafening and drove them to the cabin. The man came out with a gun and shot wildly. This made the birds swarm around him. The birds were diving at him pecking him with each pass. He flailed his arms around wildly and screamed. His knees fell to the ground and he fell on his back with his feet under him, but the birds kept attacking.
Suzy’s crow sat on the head of her horse watching with Suzy. It was one of the sickest things she ever saw, but she was glad he would never beat his wife again.
Suzy knew it was bad. He was covered with blood and his clothes were tattered and torn. Her Crow flew and she rode off.
Back at the livery Suzy turned the horse over to the stable boy. Then she walked home. Walking by the blacksmith shop Albert questioned, “You feeling better Suzan?”
Suzy replied, “A good ride always clears my mind. It cost me fifty cents, but it was worth it. See you at lunch Albert.”
Walking down the street Suzy saw Mrs. Cooper on the buckboard heading to the blacksmith shop. Suzy thought, Well Albert knows now.
Suzy hung her gun on the post and went in the back door. Victoria saw Suzy and requested, “Would you take the pot of bean and bacon soup to the table?”
Victoria followed her with the bread. Pulling a slice from the plate she handed it to Suzy and insisted, “For your bird sweetie.”
Suzy went to the backyard and sat in the grass with her legs crossed, tossed out a peace of bred. The crow came down and ate as Suzy talked to it. I need you to take a message to my mom. Tell her I love her.
Victoria sat in her chair and spoke softly, “I was thinking of having Benjamin or Amos cutting me a piece of meat from the smokehouse. We could make a stew for dinner. You want to help me with that?”
Throwing out a piece of bread, Suzy replied, “Oh I’d love to do that with you Victoria.”
Victoria revealed, “I have a bundt pan, and I thought I could make a Ginger bundt cake. I’ve got the baking powder and sugar for it. I thought it would be a nice change from the bread pudding.”
Henry and Mable came walking up on the porch as Victoria announced, “It’s on the table.”
Then Albert showed up. Looking at Suzy feeding her bird Albert asked, “Where’s James?”
Victoria replied, “In his room.”
Albert went to Jim’s room and knocked on the door, “You in there James?”
Jim came to the door, “What do you need Albert?”
Albert replied, “I need a Deputy raise your right hand and repeat after me. On my honor, I will never betray my integrity, my character, or the public trust.
I will always have the courage to hold myself and others accountable for our actions. I will always maintain the highest ethical standards and uphold the values of my community. So help me God.
Here put this badge on.”
Jim put on the badge and question, “Why me Albert?”
Albert replied, “Because I trust you. Now let’s go you can drive the buckboard.”
Jim waved at Suzy in passing and said, “I got to help Albert.”
Suzy watched as Jim went around the corner of the house. Out front he saw the buckboard with Mrs. Cooper on it, and two horses tethered to the buckboard. Albert took one horse and saddled up, as Jim got on the buckboard. Then he headed to the Cooper farm with Albert leading the way.
Albert stopped Jim about 200 feet from the house, and insisted they walk from there. Albert looked at the bloody body. His face was a bloody mess with his eyes pecked out and his nose was gone. Jim could feel his gut wrench, and turned away.
Albert exclaimed, “Man up James, we have to face this. There is no doubt he’s dead. We need to go talk to his wife about what she wants to do.”
Jim revealed, “That’s about the sickest thing I’ve ever seen. It looks like he was shot about ten times with a shotgun.”
Albert insisted, “His wife said it was a bird attack. She said he was shooting at them and they swarmed around him pecking him to death.”
They went back and talked to his wife. They asked what she wanted to do. She asked if they could bury his body. Then she took Albert and James, and showed them a spot. Then she got them a shovel and Jim and Albert took turns digging. They wrapped his body in a sheet, and rolled him in the hole. By the time they got done it was past time for dinner. Then came Jim’s fear he had to ride a horse back to town. There was no way Jim was going to admit he didn’t know how to ride a horse. Especially to Albert, so he got on his horse kicked his feet back a little. Then the horse started walking off, as Jim thought, That wasn’t so hard maybe I can do this.
That’s when Albert suggested, “I think we might need to pick it up a little.”
Jim had to come up with something, so he said, “I’m beat. I think I’ll just take my time.”
Finally they made it to the livery about dark, and turned the horses over to the stable boy. Then they walked across town to the Boardinghouse. Suzy and Benjamin were waiting at the table when they came in. Suzy revealed, “The stew is on the back of the stove.”
Jim replied, “I need to clean up first.”
Albert confessed, “Me too.”
That night in bed Suzy confessed, “The Crow scared me a little today. I followed the Cooper’s to their farm. I was going to go to Lambert and buy a gun to strap on the bastard after I shot him. Then claim self- defense after putting the gun in his hand. That changed when I got there. My Crow swooped down and hit his head. Then thousands of Crow’s were in the trees. They were squawking, and the sound was deafening. It drove them to the cabin. Then the man came out with a gun and shot wildly. This made the birds swarm around him. The birds were diving at him pecking him to death. It was the most terrifying thing I’ve ever seen, but somehow I felt relieved that he would never beat her again.”
Jim whispered, “You told me your mother sent the bird to guide you. I just think this was the only way the bird could guide you away from what you were thinking. Now you’re not going to put yourself in danger.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Suzy confessed, “I liked it better when Autum was guiding me. I miss her guiding me in my dreams.”
Jim whispered, “Me to, her memory has been fading every since we got here. I’m having trouble remembering much of her at all.”
The next day the stories ran wild about the Cooper farm, and what happened to Mr. Cooper. At breakfast Albert revealed what happened at the Cooper farm. That makes three in the last six months. First it was the Wolf attack that killed Mr. Edwards then the Mountain Lion that killed Mr. Hill, and now this Bird attack that killed Mr. Cooper. It’s like Devils Mountain has moved to the valley.
The news of what happened filled the air with sadness, and everyone was as quiet as a church mouse. Then Albert broke the silence, “Jim would you like to walk to work with Henry and me today?”
Jim replied, “Sure.”
Benjamin questioned, “Mind if I join you?”
Albert replied, “If you wish Benjamin.”
As they walked Henry acknowledged, “I’ll ask him Albert. So James are you a Hanson?”
Jim’s mind raced as he thought, What the hell. How could they know?
Jim replied, “You know I’m a White. Why would you ask me that?”
Albert Informed, “Because you look like a Hanson James. Henry and I noticed it the first time we saw you. Even Hank questioned us about it. Not so much now that you got your hair cut, but with the long hair you could be Earl Hanson’s brother.”
Jim tried to look dumbfounded and replied, “Nope, who is he?”
Henry laughed, “Only about the richest one around here. You can’t buy a piece of beef around here that don’t have the Hanson name on it. That’s what we wanted to talk to you about. This is going to sound strange, but we think Mr. Hanson might be behind the killings. Every time someone dies of some strange thing like a Mountain Lion or Woof attack he buy’s the property cheap from the widow.”
Jim blurted, “Holy shit! Is that for sure?”
Albert replied, “That got Henry and I thinking. You could save the blood from butchering a cow, and kill someone then cover them with the blood. That would bring in a Mountain Lion or Woof, and make it look like an attack.”
Benjamin spoke up, “But that don’t explain the bird attack. I’m telling you his wife is a Witch.”
Albert looked at Henry and exclaimed, “All these British guys believe in Witches and such.”
Jim agreed, “I don’t know. Benjamin might be on to something, unless you can come up with a better answer.”
Henry replied, “Well we’ll just have to wait and see if he tries to buy the property.”
Jim and Albert went into the blacksmith shop, and Benjamin and Henry continued to the Livery. In the blacksmith shop Jim questioned, “Why do people think Mrs. Hanson is a Witch?”
Albert replied, “That goes back years. About ten years ago Morgan Shaw claimed he got up one morning and opened the door to go milk the cow. That’s when he saw Mrs. Hanson standing by his barn. Not sure what to do he turned and got his gun, but when he looked back she had turned into a coyote and ran off. He says he took a shot, but the coyote was too fast and too far away. He told the story in the Saloon and to anyone that wood listen. Soon everyone was blaming any misfortune on the Witch. Then people started ridiculing her and she fell victim to mockery.
Finally Earl Hanson threatened to sue Morgan if he didn’t stop telling the story. In fear of losing his farm Morgan recanted the story, but once something like that is out there it lives on. Now you know where the Witch story comes from.”
Jim replied, “Wow, and just like that she’s a Witch. There was one other thing I wanted to ask. What was that comment about Devils Mountain this morning?”
Albert explained, “That Mountain just past where we’re going to get the wood is called Devils Mountain. It got that name back when the first settlers came out here. They found gold in the creek, and followed it up to Devils Mountain. Everyone that went up there looking for gold never came back. This is how it got the name Devils Mountain.”
Jim insisted, “Why did you and Henry want me to walk with you this morning?”
Albert was blunt, “A lot of what you say doesn’t add up. Like where you’re from.”
Jim explained, “I told you the truth about where we’re from. You just chose to ignore what I tell you. Let me explain my beliefs about this.
Good and evil have to be kept in balance. For every evil thang that happens something good must happen to keep things in balance. If you stop evil form happening in one place it will just happen in another. When Billy threw Tommy’s knife in the swimming hole that was evil, and the effect of that evil was Tommy would drown. To balance out that evil we saved him. The Angels fight this battle everyday against Demons.
Here is another way to look at it. The soft touch of a woman taking a man’s arm brings a feeling of security to her and pride to him. They both get a feeling of deep pleasure and satisfaction, and this is good. Then if the same man grabs her arm hurting her and forces it around his arm she has been dominated by him, and that is evil. My question would be if a lie is evil and wrong and the truth is good. Then what should you do when the truth would be so hurtful that it would destroy the person hearing it, but a lie would be kind and save them from the pain and anguish of the truth? Then you lie to save them from suffering severe mental and physical pain. Is that lie evil?”
Albert replied, “You answer with a riddle. Either you’re the smartest guy I ever met, or you’re totally insane.”
Jim replied, “No, I just phrased my answer so as to require ingenuity in ascertaining its answer and meaning. You’ll just have to think about it.”
Albert laughed, “I’m still torn between sane and insane.”
Looking across the street Jim questioned, “You ever ate over there at the Horseshoe?”
Albert replied, “Shure, its good. They use a lot of Hanson Beef. They have a good steak and potatoes for 50¢, or vegetable beef soup and bread for 20¢.”
Jim went on, “I see Rebecca sitting by the window.”
Albert explained, “She spends a lot of time over there. She just drinks coffee, and tries to hear gossip for the paper. Today she is waiting for the stage. The paper comes out today, and she has to deliver the papers around town. Her first stop is the General Store where she leaves a stack on the counter. Then she makes a loop through town for people that have a subscription.”
Jim excused himself and went out the back of the blacksmith shop. That’s when he learned there was a house back there. He followed the path around the house to the outhouse. Then returned and questioned, “What’s with the house out back?”
Albert replied, “You’re just full of questions today James. I lived there with my wife until she passed. Then I couldn’t live there anymore. It just hurt too much, so I rented the house out to Mr. Turner. He owns the gun shop. Oliver is married with two girls. His wife is with child and Oliver is hoping for a boy.”
Benjamin walked in and questioned, “Is Albert done trying to make you admit you can control the birds?”
Jim laughed, “No, he thinks I’m insane.”
Benjamin replied, “I already knew that. You wouldn’t be living in this town if you were sane.”
Pulling an envelope from his pocket Benjamin exclaimed, “I finished the sketches last night. Look at this.”
Then he unfolded the paper with the sketches on it. Jim and Albert looked at them. Then Albert insisted, “They look like what James is waring now.”
Benjamin replied, “Yep, I think this is going to be a winner. I might get a ticket home for this. It’s the best I’ve seen so far thanks to James. I’m going to mail it out today. Oh yah look at this one. It’s your rain coat James. What do you think?”
Jim proclaimed, “Wow that’s nice. You draw good Benjamin. Here look at this Albert. What do you think?”
Albert Replied, “That looks like a piece of art. I didn’t know you could draw like that.”
Benjamin went on, “I just hope my father likes it. Now I have to go see Emily so this will make it in today’s mail bag. If not then I’ll have to wait until next Tuesday for the next stage. It takes almost three weeks to get a letter to New York. I’m hoping for a response by July. Would you like to see it off with me James?”
Jim replied, “That will be the highlight of my day.”
Benjamin argued, “No, when I read about you tonight from the paper. That will be your highlight of the day.”
Albert assured, “It will most likely be Rebecca’s too. I’m sure she got that headline she has wanted so much.”
Benjamin exclaimed, “Let’s go James. We all know Albert got his name in the paper again.”
As Jim and Benjamin walked in Hank was talking to a man, “I’m sorry Jesse I just can’t put any more on your bill without some kind of assurance. Now if you need some seed we can talk about that.”
The man dropped his head and left. Emily questioned, “Isn’t there anything we can do Hank?”
Hank reasoned, “If I could just get him to put in a crop. Then I could help him. Unfortunately he’s given up, and his bill is over a hundred dollars.”
Emily exclaimed, “I just feel so bad about the children.”
Benjamin stepped to the counter and handed the letter to Emily and question, “Can I get this in the mail bag today?”
Jim stepped over by Hank and inquired, “What’s the problem with that man Hank? I know you’re not that cold hearted.”
Hank explained, “That’s Jesse Wilson the father of the boy you and Albert saved. He’s had a run of bad luck, and bad decisions. Someone talked him into growing corn last year, and the crop failed. Then he sold his Oxen to feed his family. Then his horse didn’t make it through the winter. He used the money from the sale of Oxen to pay on his bill, but his bill was already twice that. It’s not that he doesn’t try, but he doesn’t make the best decisions.”
Jim squeezed his chin and questioned, “You told me everyone owed you money. I was just wondering how good my credit is?”
Hank Laughed, “James, Emily and I might be dead if not for you. Even if you didn’t have the reward coming how could I say no? What do you want to charge?”
Benjamin stepped next to Jim and questioned, “What are you getting now James? You already ordered a pump and pipe. Are you trying to spend all that money before you get it?”
Jim ignored Benjamin and questioned, “How many acres dose Jesse plant?”
Hank replied, “I sold him seed for forty acres last year.”
Jim informed, “This is my list. I want enough wheat seed to plant forty acres, twenty five pounds of flour, five pounds of sugar, and two cans of baking powder, twenty five pounds of beans, and some salt pork. There will be more, but Suzan will make that list. Benjamin would you go get Charlie and tether patty, and ride Charlie to the house?”
Benjamin replied, “See you at the house.”
Benjamin went to get the team, and Jim went to the house. Hank told Emily he didn’t think there was enough time to plow and plant. He thought James might be wasting his money.
At the Boardinghouse Jim found Suzy and Victoria sitting on the porch. Sitting in his chair He requested, “I need your help today. Can you take a trip with me?”
Suzy looked at Victoria and she informed, “Go ahead sweetie I got along just fine before you came here. I got Amos if I need something.”
Suzy questioned, “What are we doing?”
Jim explained, “We’re taking some food to the family of the boy I help save. They need food bad. Their crop failed last year, and they lost everything. They don’t even have a way to plow their field.”
Suzy questioned, “Is there just the boy?”
Jim replied, “No, he has two younger sisters.”
Suzy didn’t even question how much it would cost. She just jumped up and questioned, “Are you getting the team?”
Jim replied, “Benjamin went for Charlie and Patty. In fact I think I hear him now.”
At the wagon they hooked up the team and were off to the General Store. Jim drove the wagon with Suzy in-between Jim and Benjamin. At the store Jim pulled up next to the loading dock. Hank had the flour and beans setting on the dock. Suzy went inside to see Emily, and got coffee, tea, and a can of lard. Jim got directions from Hank. Then he headed out of town.
Suzy questioned, “How far is it?”
Jim replied, “Hank said about two miles out there is wagon ruts off to the right. Then the house is about a half mile down that path.”
About a mile and a half from town Jim saw Jesse walking down the road. Stopping the wagon Jim hollered, “Mr. Wilson I’m going to see Tommy. Why don’t you hop on the back?”
Jesse looked at them and questioned, “Who are you, and why do you want to see Tommy?”
Jim replied, “I’m one of the men that pulled him from the water, and this is my wife Suzan and friend Benjamin.”
Jesse replied, “Tommy is fine, and there is no need to see him.”
Jim insisted, “Well I need to see the boy for myself, and Suzan wants to meet your wife. I’m not taking no for an answer, so get on.”
Reluctantly Jesse climbed on the wagon as he explained, “Don’t expect too much our crop failed last year.”
Jim queried, “I understand you have two girls?”
Jesse replied, “Helen six and Pearl eight, and you know Tommy. This is our turn coming up.”
Jim turned down the wagon rut path. It was full of potholes and deep ruts. Soon he was pulling up to the house. The barn was twice the size of the house. The house looked to be three rooms. With the main part twice as big as the other room. Pulling the team to a stop the children came running out. Jim looked at Tommy and questioned, “You remember me Tommy?”
Tommy exclaimed, “You cut your hair off!”
Jim laughed, “I sure did Tommy. There ain’t no fooling you.”
Jim climbed down and walked to the edge of the field. Then Suzy announced, “Mrs. Wilson the stuff in the wagon is for your family. There is some tea in there and I’d like a cup. You think you could make a pot of coffee for the men? The coffee is with the tea. I’m going to go talk to my husband, and I’m sure Benjamin will help with the unloading.”
Jim whispered, “Me to, her memory has been fading every since we got here. I’m having trouble remembering much of her at all.”
The next day the stories ran wild about the Cooper farm, and what happened to Mr. Cooper. At breakfast Albert revealed what happened at the Cooper farm. That makes three in the last six months. First it was the Wolf attack that killed Mr. Edwards then the Mountain Lion that killed Mr. Hill, and now this Bird attack that killed Mr. Cooper. It’s like Devils Mountain has moved to the valley.
The news of what happened filled the air with sadness, and everyone was as quiet as a church mouse. Then Albert broke the silence, “Jim would you like to walk to work with Henry and me today?”
Jim replied, “Sure.”
Benjamin questioned, “Mind if I join you?”
Albert replied, “If you wish Benjamin.”
As they walked Henry acknowledged, “I’ll ask him Albert. So James are you a Hanson?”
Jim’s mind raced as he thought, What the hell. How could they know?
Jim replied, “You know I’m a White. Why would you ask me that?”
Albert Informed, “Because you look like a Hanson James. Henry and I noticed it the first time we saw you. Even Hank questioned us about it. Not so much now that you got your hair cut, but with the long hair you could be Earl Hanson’s brother.”
Jim tried to look dumbfounded and replied, “Nope, who is he?”
Henry laughed, “Only about the richest one around here. You can’t buy a piece of beef around here that don’t have the Hanson name on it. That’s what we wanted to talk to you about. This is going to sound strange, but we think Mr. Hanson might be behind the killings. Every time someone dies of some strange thing like a Mountain Lion or Woof attack he buy’s the property cheap from the widow.”
Jim blurted, “Holy shit! Is that for sure?”
Albert replied, “That got Henry and I thinking. You could save the blood from butchering a cow, and kill someone then cover them with the blood. That would bring in a Mountain Lion or Woof, and make it look like an attack.”
Benjamin spoke up, “But that don’t explain the bird attack. I’m telling you his wife is a Witch.”
Albert looked at Henry and exclaimed, “All these British guys believe in Witches and such.”
Jim agreed, “I don’t know. Benjamin might be on to something, unless you can come up with a better answer.”
Henry replied, “Well we’ll just have to wait and see if he tries to buy the property.”
Jim and Albert went into the blacksmith shop, and Benjamin and Henry continued to the Livery. In the blacksmith shop Jim questioned, “Why do people think Mrs. Hanson is a Witch?”
Albert replied, “That goes back years. About ten years ago Morgan Shaw claimed he got up one morning and opened the door to go milk the cow. That’s when he saw Mrs. Hanson standing by his barn. Not sure what to do he turned and got his gun, but when he looked back she had turned into a coyote and ran off. He says he took a shot, but the coyote was too fast and too far away. He told the story in the Saloon and to anyone that wood listen. Soon everyone was blaming any misfortune on the Witch. Then people started ridiculing her and she fell victim to mockery.
Finally Earl Hanson threatened to sue Morgan if he didn’t stop telling the story. In fear of losing his farm Morgan recanted the story, but once something like that is out there it lives on. Now you know where the Witch story comes from.”
Jim replied, “Wow, and just like that she’s a Witch. There was one other thing I wanted to ask. What was that comment about Devils Mountain this morning?”
Albert explained, “That Mountain just past where we’re going to get the wood is called Devils Mountain. It got that name back when the first settlers came out here. They found gold in the creek, and followed it up to Devils Mountain. Everyone that went up there looking for gold never came back. This is how it got the name Devils Mountain.”
Jim insisted, “Why did you and Henry want me to walk with you this morning?”
Albert was blunt, “A lot of what you say doesn’t add up. Like where you’re from.”
Jim explained, “I told you the truth about where we’re from. You just chose to ignore what I tell you. Let me explain my beliefs about this.
Good and evil have to be kept in balance. For every evil thang that happens something good must happen to keep things in balance. If you stop evil form happening in one place it will just happen in another. When Billy threw Tommy’s knife in the swimming hole that was evil, and the effect of that evil was Tommy would drown. To balance out that evil we saved him. The Angels fight this battle everyday against Demons.
Here is another way to look at it. The soft touch of a woman taking a man’s arm brings a feeling of security to her and pride to him. They both get a feeling of deep pleasure and satisfaction, and this is good. Then if the same man grabs her arm hurting her and forces it around his arm she has been dominated by him, and that is evil. My question would be if a lie is evil and wrong and the truth is good. Then what should you do when the truth would be so hurtful that it would destroy the person hearing it, but a lie would be kind and save them from the pain and anguish of the truth? Then you lie to save them from suffering severe mental and physical pain. Is that lie evil?”
Albert replied, “You answer with a riddle. Either you’re the smartest guy I ever met, or you’re totally insane.”
Jim replied, “No, I just phrased my answer so as to require ingenuity in ascertaining its answer and meaning. You’ll just have to think about it.”
Albert laughed, “I’m still torn between sane and insane.”
Looking across the street Jim questioned, “You ever ate over there at the Horseshoe?”
Albert replied, “Shure, its good. They use a lot of Hanson Beef. They have a good steak and potatoes for 50¢, or vegetable beef soup and bread for 20¢.”
Jim went on, “I see Rebecca sitting by the window.”
Albert explained, “She spends a lot of time over there. She just drinks coffee, and tries to hear gossip for the paper. Today she is waiting for the stage. The paper comes out today, and she has to deliver the papers around town. Her first stop is the General Store where she leaves a stack on the counter. Then she makes a loop through town for people that have a subscription.”
Jim excused himself and went out the back of the blacksmith shop. That’s when he learned there was a house back there. He followed the path around the house to the outhouse. Then returned and questioned, “What’s with the house out back?”
Albert replied, “You’re just full of questions today James. I lived there with my wife until she passed. Then I couldn’t live there anymore. It just hurt too much, so I rented the house out to Mr. Turner. He owns the gun shop. Oliver is married with two girls. His wife is with child and Oliver is hoping for a boy.”
Benjamin walked in and questioned, “Is Albert done trying to make you admit you can control the birds?”
Jim laughed, “No, he thinks I’m insane.”
Benjamin replied, “I already knew that. You wouldn’t be living in this town if you were sane.”Pulling an envelope from his pocket Benjamin exclaimed, “I finished the sketches last night. Look at this.”
Then he unfolded the paper with the sketches on it. Jim and Albert looked at them. Then Albert insisted, “They look like what James is waring now.”
Benjamin replied, “Yep, I think this is going to be a winner. I might get a ticket home for this. It’s the best I’ve seen so far thanks to James. I’m going to mail it out today. Oh yah look at this one. It’s your rain coat James. What do you think?”
Jim proclaimed, “Wow that’s nice. You draw good Benjamin. Here look at this Albert. What do you think?”
Albert Replied, “That looks like a piece of art. I didn’t know you could draw like that.”
Benjamin went on, “I just hope my father likes it. Now I have to go see Emily so this will make it in today’s mail bag. If not then I’ll have to wait until next Tuesday for the next stage. It takes almost three weeks to get a letter to New York. I’m hoping for a response by July. Would you like to see it off with me James?”
Jim replied, “That will be the highlight of my day.”
Benjamin argued, “No, when I read about you tonight from the paper. That will be your highlight of the day.”
Albert assured, “It will most likely be Rebecca’s too. I’m sure she got that headline she has wanted so much.”
Benjamin exclaimed, “Let’s go James. We all know Albert got his name in the paper again.”
As Jim and Benjamin walked in Hank was talking to a man, “I’m sorry Jesse I just can’t put any more on your bill without some kind of assurance. Now if you need some seed we can talk about that.”
The man dropped his head and left. Emily questioned, “Isn’t there anything we can do Hank?”
Hank reasoned, “If I could just get him to put in a crop. Then I could help him. Unfortunately he’s given up, and his bill is over a hundred dollars.”
Emily exclaimed, “I just feel so bad about the children.”
Benjamin stepped to the counter and handed the letter to Emily and question, “Can I get this in the mail bag today?”
Jim stepped over by Hank and inquired, “What’s the problem with that man Hank? I know you’re not that cold hearted.”
Hank explained, “That’s Jesse Wilson the father of the boy you and Albert saved. He’s had a run of bad luck, and bad decisions. Someone talked him into growing corn last year, and the crop failed. Then he sold his Oxen to feed his family. Then his horse didn’t make it through the winter. He used the money from the sale of Oxen to pay on his bill, but his bill was already twice that. It’s not that he doesn’t try, but he doesn’t make the best decisions.”
Jim squeezed his chin and questioned, “You told me everyone owed you money. I was just wondering how good my credit is?”
Hank Laughed, “James, Emily and I might be dead if not for you. Even if you didn’t have the reward coming how could I say no? What do you want to charge?”
Benjamin stepped next to Jim and questioned, “What are you getting now James? You already ordered a pump and pipe. Are you trying to spend all that money before you get it?”
Jim ignored Benjamin and questioned, “How many acres dose Jesse plant?”
Hank replied, “I sold him seed for forty acres last year.”
Jim informed, “This is my list. I want enough wheat seed to plant forty acres, twenty five pounds of flour, five pounds of sugar, and two cans of baking powder, twenty five pounds of beans, and some salt pork. There will be more, but Suzan will make that list. Benjamin would you go get Charlie and tether patty, and ride Charlie to the house?”
Benjamin replied, “See you at the house.”
Benjamin went to get the team, and Jim went to the house. Hank told Emily he didn’t think there was enough time to plow and plant. He thought James might be wasting his money.
At the Boardinghouse Jim found Suzy and Victoria sitting on the porch. Sitting in his chair He requested, “I need your help today. Can you take a trip with me?”
Suzy looked at Victoria and she informed, “Go ahead sweetie I got along just fine before you came here. I got Amos if I need something.”
Suzy questioned, “What are we doing?”
Jim explained, “We’re taking some food to the family of the boy I help save. They need food bad. Their crop failed last year, and they lost everything. They don’t even have a way to plow their field.”
Suzy questioned, “Is there just the boy?”
Jim replied, “No, he has two younger sisters.”
Suzy didn’t even question how much it would cost. She just jumped up and questioned, “Are you getting the team?”
Jim replied, “Benjamin went for Charlie and Patty. In fact I think I hear him now.”
At the wagon they hooked up the team and were off to the General Store. Jim drove the wagon with Suzy in-between Jim and Benjamin. At the store Jim pulled up next to the loading dock. Hank had the flour and beans setting on the dock. Suzy went inside to see Emily, and got coffee, tea, and a can of lard. Jim got directions from Hank. Then he headed out of town.
Suzy questioned, “How far is it?”
Jim replied, “Hank said about two miles out there is wagon ruts off to the right. Then the house is about a half mile down that path.”
About a mile and a half from town Jim saw Jesse walking down the road. Stopping the wagon Jim hollered, “Mr. Wilson I’m going to see Tommy. Why don’t you hop on the back?”
Jesse looked at them and questioned, “Who are you, and why do you want to see Tommy?”
Jim replied, “I’m one of the men that pulled him from the water, and this is my wife Suzan and friend Benjamin.”
Jesse replied, “Tommy is fine, and there is no need to see him.”
Jim insisted, “Well I need to see the boy for myself, and Suzan wants to meet your wife. I’m not taking no for an answer, so get on.”
Reluctantly Jesse climbed on the wagon as he explained, “Don’t expect too much our crop failed last year.”
Jim queried, “I understand you have two girls?”
Jesse replied, “Helen six and Pearl eight, and you know Tommy. This is our turn coming up.”
Jim turned down the wagon rut path. It was full of potholes and deep ruts. Soon he was pulling up to the house. The barn was twice the size of the house. The house looked to be three rooms. With the main part twice as big as the other room. Pulling the team to a stop the children came running out. Jim looked at Tommy and questioned, “You remember me Tommy?”
Tommy exclaimed, “You cut your hair off!”
Jim laughed, “I sure did Tommy. There ain’t no fooling you.”
Jim climbed down and walked to the edge of the field. Then Suzy announced, “Mrs. Wilson the stuff in the wagon is for your family. There is some tea in there and I’d like a cup. You think you could make a pot of coffee for the men? The coffee is with the tea. I’m going to go talk to my husband, and I’m sure Benjamin will help with the unloading.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Suzy stepped next to Jim and questioned, “What are you thinking James?”
Jim replied, “This should be plowed by now, and he should be planting. I don’t think we can make it even with our team.”
Suzy whispered, “What about the truck? Could we use it like a tractor? I think it’s only about a mile away over that hill back there.”
Jim replied, “Sure it might not pull six bottom plows like my tractor back at home, but it should be able to pull four without any problem. The question is how we come up with a four bottom plow attachment. Then we need to find a way to use the truck without anyone knowing.”
Suzy insisted, “James put the lid back on the beehive. Remember James one thing at a time. Let’s see if we can get a four bottom plow made first.”
Jesse walked up and insisted, “Looks a mess don’t it.”
Jim questioned, “If I can get a crop in are you willing to share crop the land?”
Jesse started laughing, “Are you out of your mind. I can tell you never did any farming before.”
Jim went on, “I think I can do it. I see you have a plow over by the barn, and one with no handles on it.”
Jesse explained, “The one without handles is broke, and you can’t put handles on it.”
Jim explained, “If I took the two plows to the blacksmith and had them hooked together I could plow twice as fast.”
Jesse insisted, “You must be insane. Your team could never pull two plows. Heck you would need four Clydesdale horses to pull something like that. If that was possible they would make them that way.”
Jim replied, “Let me give it a try. If it doesn’t work I’ll buy you a new plow, so you’re out nothing to let me try.”
Jesse questioned, “Why me? What made you want to help me?”
Jim put his arm around Suzy and divulged, “Because one time I hit rock bottom, and had nothing to lose. I had pretty much got in so deep I was going to lose everything. I took the money I had and spent it on a dream I couldn’t afford. Then someone came into my life that saved me.
Now I’m paying that back. It’s called love! I know you have that, and I don’t want Tommy to grow-up thinking his dad is a quitter. Are you a quitter, or are you with me Jesse?”
A tear ran down Jesse’s cheek as he turned and walked away saying with a shaky voice, “I need a minute.”
Then Benjamin walked up, “What’s the matter with Mr. Wilson?”
Suzy replied, “I think he just got slapped in the face by love.”
Jim hypothesized, “I think I can have this plowed by the end of next week.”
Benjamin laughed, “Now you want us to think you’re a super farmer. It would take six men with four teams to plow that field in a week.”
Seeing a rusty tin can Jim went and picked it up. Setting it about twenty feet in front of them he looked at Suzy. She winked and Jim insisted, “Watch this, if Suzan can shoot the can out of the air then it’s possible.”
Benjamin insisted, “The cans on the ground James.”
With that Jim used his quick draw, and shot the can. The can flew up in the air and Suzy shot it. Then they twirled their guns, blew on the barrel, and holstered them.
Jim looked at Benjamin and insisted, “Looks like its possible Benjamin.”
Benjamin replied, “That’s why I don’t wear a gun.”
Tommy came running out and announced, “My mom said the tea’s ready.”
Suzy informed, “See yah later I have some girl stuff to talk about.”
Inside Suzy sat at the table with Mrs. Wilson. Then she called the girls over. Pulling a peppermint stick from her inside pocket she held it out and questioned, “What’s your name?”
With her older sister behind her she replied, “Helen, but I can’t have that unless you break it in half.”
Suzy inquired, “Why is that Helen”
Helen replied, “I have to share with my sister.”
Reaching back to her inside pocket Suzy pulled out another peppermint stick. Then Suzy exclaimed, “Here is one for each of you. Oh what should I do about Tommy?”
“Here I am,” Tommy replied.
Suzy teased, “Little boy’s don’t like peppermint sticks do they Tommy?”
Tommy argued, “Yes they do! Don’t you know anything?”
Pulling out another peppermint stick Suzy informed, “Then come and get it Tommy.”
Taking the peppermint stick from Suzy’s hand Tommy announced, “Thank you mam.”
Suzy took a sip of her tea and insisted, “That there made me so happy. You’ll never know what you did for me.”
With a shocked look Margaret insisted, “It’s I that should be thanking you. You have done so much for us. I never would believe there would be someone like you and your husband. Why are you doing this for us? We have nothing to repay you with.”
Suzy explained, “Don’t you understand It’s the children. I just took my first payment. Every event that goes in their mind at this age will make then who they will be. I’m telling you something as simple as a new dress. Will stick in a little girls mind the rest of her life. A little boy that works with his father will work as a man. A child that is given love and happiness will grow up to give love and happiness. What price can you put on that?”
Margaret sipped her tea as a tear slipped down her cheek. Then she whimpered, “Where do people like you come from? You look mean as hell. You dress like a man and you’re not afraid to speak your mind. Yet you have the biggest heart of anyone I ever met.”
Margaret walked to the stove and pushed the perking pot to one side. Then she went to the door by the kids sitting on the porch and insisted, “Tommy go tell your dad the coffee is ready.”
The men gathered around the stove and had a cup of coffee. Then Jim announced, “If we’re going to make it back in time for supper we should go.”
When they got to town Albert had already left for lunch, so they dropped off the plows and headed to the house. On the way Jim questioned, “So Benjamin how much would you charge me to draw up a plow for me?”
Benjamin laughed, “So the super farmer still thinks he can plow forty acres in a week. I’ll do it for free, but you have to supply the star dust to make it work. I’m telling you there is no way you’ll make it.”
Suzy laughed and winked at Jim, “I’ll put out a cup to catch the star dust tonight.”
Pulling the wagon up to the house they passed Albert and Henry. Albert called out, “We ate it all. We thought you weren’t coming.”
Coming in the door Jim saw the soup pot with the stack of bowls next to it. Picking up a bowl, Jim looked in the pot. Then he announced, “Albert lied again. There is a lot of soup left.”
Benjamin snickered, “So he lied again. Imagine that. I’ll go get some paper and be right back out.”
After lunch Jim and Benjamin worked on the drawing, Suzy took the wagon and went on her own mission. First she went to the blacksmith shop to talk to Albert. Then she went out of town to the wood lot. Once there she talked to the Watson brothers. She made a deal to leave the wagon and pay a dollar a cord to deliver the wood. Then she tethered Patty to Charlie and headed back to the stables. As Suzy was walking back to the house Albert called her in the blacksmith shop. Then Albert questioned, “What are you getting wood for, and where is your wagon?
Suzy explained, “I’m paying them a dollar a cord to hall and stack the wood.”
Albert insisted, “Jim and I were going to do that together.”
Suzy replied, “I know, but Jim wants you to build him a four bottom plow. He needs it as soon as possible. Jim and Benjamin are drawing up a picture of it now.”
Albert started laughing, “That’s the craziest thing I’ve heard of yet. You tell him to bring down the picture so I can talk him out of this crazy thing.”
Suzy insisted, “I’ll tell him Albert, but once he gets something in his head… Well let’s just say there is no stopping him. James is no quitter by any means.”
Suzy went back to the house and told Jim what Albert said. With that Jim and Benjamin took their drawing and went to the blacksmith shop. With excitement Jim showed Albert the drawing as Benjamin shook his head.
Albert started laughing, “Are you out of your mind? Do you have any idea how many horses it would take to pull something like this?”
Jim got a serious look on his face, “Ten may be?”
Albert replied. “I’ve seen an ad for a John Deere three-furrow plows. The ad claimed using teams of up to seven draft horses to pull their very large, three-furrow plows about 10 acres could be plowed daily. I would guess something like this would take ten draft horses. I’m just wondering where you’re getting that many horses from.”
Jim replied, “This should be plowed by now, and he should be planting. I don’t think we can make it even with our team.”
Suzy whispered, “What about the truck? Could we use it like a tractor? I think it’s only about a mile away over that hill back there.”
Jim replied, “Sure it might not pull six bottom plows like my tractor back at home, but it should be able to pull four without any problem. The question is how we come up with a four bottom plow attachment. Then we need to find a way to use the truck without anyone knowing.”
Suzy insisted, “James put the lid back on the beehive. Remember James one thing at a time. Let’s see if we can get a four bottom plow made first.”
Jesse walked up and insisted, “Looks a mess don’t it.”
Jim questioned, “If I can get a crop in are you willing to share crop the land?”
Jesse started laughing, “Are you out of your mind. I can tell you never did any farming before.”
Jim went on, “I think I can do it. I see you have a plow over by the barn, and one with no handles on it.”
Jesse explained, “The one without handles is broke, and you can’t put handles on it.”
Jim explained, “If I took the two plows to the blacksmith and had them hooked together I could plow twice as fast.”
Jesse insisted, “You must be insane. Your team could never pull two plows. Heck you would need four Clydesdale horses to pull something like that. If that was possible they would make them that way.”
Jim replied, “Let me give it a try. If it doesn’t work I’ll buy you a new plow, so you’re out nothing to let me try.”
Jesse questioned, “Why me? What made you want to help me?”
Jim put his arm around Suzy and divulged, “Because one time I hit rock bottom, and had nothing to lose. I had pretty much got in so deep I was going to lose everything. I took the money I had and spent it on a dream I couldn’t afford. Then someone came into my life that saved me.
Now I’m paying that back. It’s called love! I know you have that, and I don’t want Tommy to grow-up thinking his dad is a quitter. Are you a quitter, or are you with me Jesse?”
A tear ran down Jesse’s cheek as he turned and walked away saying with a shaky voice, “I need a minute.”
Then Benjamin walked up, “What’s the matter with Mr. Wilson?”
Suzy replied, “I think he just got slapped in the face by love.”
Jim hypothesized, “I think I can have this plowed by the end of next week.”
Benjamin laughed, “Now you want us to think you’re a super farmer. It would take six men with four teams to plow that field in a week.”
Seeing a rusty tin can Jim went and picked it up. Setting it about twenty feet in front of them he looked at Suzy. She winked and Jim insisted, “Watch this, if Suzan can shoot the can out of the air then it’s possible.”
Benjamin insisted, “The cans on the ground James.”
With that Jim used his quick draw, and shot the can. The can flew up in the air and Suzy shot it. Then they twirled their guns, blew on the barrel, and holstered them.
Jim looked at Benjamin and insisted, “Looks like its possible Benjamin.”
Benjamin replied, “That’s why I don’t wear a gun.”
Tommy came running out and announced, “My mom said the tea’s ready.”
Suzy informed, “See yah later I have some girl stuff to talk about.”
Inside Suzy sat at the table with Mrs. Wilson. Then she called the girls over. Pulling a peppermint stick from her inside pocket she held it out and questioned, “What’s your name?”
With her older sister behind her she replied, “Helen, but I can’t have that unless you break it in half.”
Suzy inquired, “Why is that Helen”
Helen replied, “I have to share with my sister.”
Reaching back to her inside pocket Suzy pulled out another peppermint stick. Then Suzy exclaimed, “Here is one for each of you. Oh what should I do about Tommy?”
“Here I am,” Tommy replied.
Suzy teased, “Little boy’s don’t like peppermint sticks do they Tommy?”
Tommy argued, “Yes they do! Don’t you know anything?”
Pulling out another peppermint stick Suzy informed, “Then come and get it Tommy.”
Taking the peppermint stick from Suzy’s hand Tommy announced, “Thank you mam.”
Suzy took a sip of her tea and insisted, “That there made me so happy. You’ll never know what you did for me.”
With a shocked look Margaret insisted, “It’s I that should be thanking you. You have done so much for us. I never would believe there would be someone like you and your husband. Why are you doing this for us? We have nothing to repay you with.”
Suzy explained, “Don’t you understand It’s the children. I just took my first payment. Every event that goes in their mind at this age will make then who they will be. I’m telling you something as simple as a new dress. Will stick in a little girls mind the rest of her life. A little boy that works with his father will work as a man. A child that is given love and happiness will grow up to give love and happiness. What price can you put on that?”
Margaret sipped her tea as a tear slipped down her cheek. Then she whimpered, “Where do people like you come from? You look mean as hell. You dress like a man and you’re not afraid to speak your mind. Yet you have the biggest heart of anyone I ever met.”
Margaret walked to the stove and pushed the perking pot to one side. Then she went to the door by the kids sitting on the porch and insisted, “Tommy go tell your dad the coffee is ready.”
The men gathered around the stove and had a cup of coffee. Then Jim announced, “If we’re going to make it back in time for supper we should go.”
When they got to town Albert had already left for lunch, so they dropped off the plows and headed to the house. On the way Jim questioned, “So Benjamin how much would you charge me to draw up a plow for me?”
Benjamin laughed, “So the super farmer still thinks he can plow forty acres in a week. I’ll do it for free, but you have to supply the star dust to make it work. I’m telling you there is no way you’ll make it.”
Suzy laughed and winked at Jim, “I’ll put out a cup to catch the star dust tonight.”
Pulling the wagon up to the house they passed Albert and Henry. Albert called out, “We ate it all. We thought you weren’t coming.”
Coming in the door Jim saw the soup pot with the stack of bowls next to it. Picking up a bowl, Jim looked in the pot. Then he announced, “Albert lied again. There is a lot of soup left.”Benjamin snickered, “So he lied again. Imagine that. I’ll go get some paper and be right back out.”
After lunch Jim and Benjamin worked on the drawing, Suzy took the wagon and went on her own mission. First she went to the blacksmith shop to talk to Albert. Then she went out of town to the wood lot. Once there she talked to the Watson brothers. She made a deal to leave the wagon and pay a dollar a cord to deliver the wood. Then she tethered Patty to Charlie and headed back to the stables. As Suzy was walking back to the house Albert called her in the blacksmith shop. Then Albert questioned, “What are you getting wood for, and where is your wagon?
Suzy explained, “I’m paying them a dollar a cord to hall and stack the wood.”
Albert insisted, “Jim and I were going to do that together.”
Suzy replied, “I know, but Jim wants you to build him a four bottom plow. He needs it as soon as possible. Jim and Benjamin are drawing up a picture of it now.”
Albert started laughing, “That’s the craziest thing I’ve heard of yet. You tell him to bring down the picture so I can talk him out of this crazy thing.”
Suzy insisted, “I’ll tell him Albert, but once he gets something in his head… Well let’s just say there is no stopping him. James is no quitter by any means.”
Suzy went back to the house and told Jim what Albert said. With that Jim and Benjamin took their drawing and went to the blacksmith shop. With excitement Jim showed Albert the drawing as Benjamin shook his head.
Albert started laughing, “Are you out of your mind? Do you have any idea how many horses it would take to pull something like this?”
Jim got a serious look on his face, “Ten may be?”
Albert replied. “I’ve seen an ad for a John Deere three-furrow plows. The ad claimed using teams of up to seven draft horses to pull their very large, three-furrow plows about 10 acres could be plowed daily. I would guess something like this would take ten draft horses. I’m just wondering where you’re getting that many horses from.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Benjamin blurted, “Here it comes.” As he lipped what Jim was saying.
Jim replied, “If I told you. You wouldn’t believe me, so we’ll just have to leave it at that.”
Benjamin insisted, “It’s the same place the smokeless bullets come from Albert.”
Albert picked up a hammer and hit the anvil with the ring hanging in the air he mumbled, “Fifty bucks plus material, and you have to help.”
Jim wasted no time and put out his hand. Albert set the hammer on the anvil and shook his hand. Then he took Jim’s hand and squeezed it so hard it hurt, but Jim just gritted his teeth and shook on it.”
Then Albert warned, “You know you might think you’re rich Jim, but you haven’t even got that reward yet. At the rate you are spending it. The money will most likely be gone in no time. You’re not rich you know.”
Jim looked Albert dead in the eyes and exclaimed, “You’re wrong Albert I’m rich as can be. You see I don’t measure wealth by how much money I have, but by how much love I give. You see the more love I give the more I get back. All the money in the world can’t buy that. Now let’s put a lot of love into this plow.”
Albert looked at the picture and explained, “You dropped off two plows, and I have one on the scrap pile broke the same way as the one you have. We need one more plow. I have a wheel from a wheelbarrow on the scrap pile I’m sure I have enough bar stock. Yep, I think we can do it, but James has to go buy a plow from Hank.”
Jim replied, “I’ll get it here even if I have to go get Patty, and drag the damn thing down the street to the blacksmith shop.”
Jim helped lay out the stuff for the plow, and arranged to get a plow from Hank. Then they went home for the night.
After dinner Benjamin read from the paper.
“On May 18, 1874 in Dention,
In a daring move James White foiled an attempted robbery by the notorious Jack Callen. Jack came in wielding a gun forcing the store owner Hank Williams of Dention to lie on the floor. Then he forced the clerk Miss Emily Johnson to give him the money. After Emily gave Jack the money, he insisted there must be more. Then he threatened to shoot Miss Johnson if she didn’t give it to him. Putting his life in danger James White went into action and in a daring move disarmed Jack and knocked him out. Adams County Sheriff Blocker transported Jack Callen to Lambert where he awaits trial.”
Benjamin went on, “Looks like Rebecca got here first headline, and Albert got his name in the paper again.”
Later that night after Henry had his nightly pipe. Jim and Suzy were lying in bed with the window open. Benjamin was sitting on the porch next to their window when the Crow landed on the window sill.
Suzy questioned, “When are we getting the truck?”
Jim replied, “I was thinking Sunday after church. We could put it just over the hill from their Farm.”
Suzy informed. “That sounds like a plan I’ll talk to Henry about it.”
Jim spoke softly, “I was looking back at things, and I remembered the day I first saw you standing on my front porch. That was the best day of my life. I was scared to death to see you there, and knew at that moment a change was coming to my life. I would say the second best day was when you put the check in my pocket, and started making wild bids. I was in shock and was not sure what was happening. In fact it’s still all blurry to this day, but now this ride we’re on is unbelievable. Everything moves so slowly, and it’s to quite. I need some music, but there is none.”
Suzy whispered, “You’re wrong Jim tomorrow is Friday and the piano player will be at the Saloon. I know from my time with Autum. She showed me this town and we sat in the Saloon a lot.”
Then the Crow flew in and landed on the bed. Looking at Jim it squawked. Jim responded, “I know I’m in too far, and I’m in way to deep. It’s like Tommy cast a spell across my heart. I feel tied to the children, and it’s like Tommy has a hold on me.”
It was late at night and Margaret was sitting in her prized possession. She had had that old rocker since the day Tommy came into the world. She was sewing on a quilt for her youngest Helen when Tommy appeared. Laying the quilt on her lap she pulled Tommy up on it and questioned, “What’s the matter Tommy?”
Tommy questioned, “Why is the cowboy lady so sad?”
Margaret inquired, “What do you mean Tommy?”
When James was holding me at Mrs. Peterson’s house I could see the cowboy lady, and she was sad. She was so sad I could feel it and it hurt. It was bad mom. She’s hurting inside, and there is nothing anyone can do. You need to help her mom.”
Margaret rocked Tommy and whispered, “What she needs is you Tommy. You see James and Suzan have no children, and that makes them sad. They need the love of you and your sisters to make the sadness go away. Next time you see that cowboy lady you give her a big hug and tell her thanks for the love. She is a special lady and a rare find.”
Tommy questioned, “Why don’t they have their own little boy and girl mom?”
Margaret smiled, “You’ll have to ask God that Tommy. Only God knows that, but be thankful he sent them to us. We needed something like this bad, and that there is an answer to my prayers. I love you Tommy and I’m riding your coattail this time.”
Benjamin thought he was well educated, but James and Suzan kept using words he didn’t know. Benjamin had to know what this Truck was, so he went to his room. Getting his Webster's Dictionary he looked up, “Truck.”
It read, “TRUCK, verb intransitive [Latin trochus, a round thing; Eng. truck ] To exchange commodities; to barter. Our traders truck with the Indians, giving them whiskey and trinkets for skins,
TRUCK, verb transitive To exchange; to give in exchange; to barter; as, to truck knives for gold dust. [Vulgar.]
TRUCK, noun Permutation; exchange of commodities; barter.
Benjamin thought, I wonder what their bartering for?
The next morning Suzy woke at four in the morning. She pulled her chamber pot from under the bed. Pulling out some of the gold bars she looked at the stamped numbers on them. Slipping two of them in her pocket she put the rest back, and slid the chamber pot back under the bed. Then she slipped her hand in Jim’s pants pocket. Fishing around she got a silver dollar and put it in her pocket.
Then she went out to help Victoria make the bread. Suzy stayed in the kitchen as everyone ate that morning. She watched for Albert and Henry to finish their pancakes. Then she went to the door and announced, “Albert, Henry can I talk to you outside for a minute?”
Then she stepped out the door. Albert and Henry followed her out. Henry spoke first, “What do you need Suzan?”
Suzy informed. “I would like to buy that horse you got for the guy’s boarding bill. Would you take two ounces of gold for that horse?”
Then Suzy pulled out a two ounce bar of gold and held it out. Henry took the gold bar and looked it over. Then he questioned, “What do you want this horse for?”
Suzy replied, “For the Wilson’s that have no way to get around.”
Henry put the bar in his pocket and insisted, “Deal.”
Suzy went on, “Here is a dollar I need two horses saddled up after church on Sunday, so James and I can take them the horse.”
Henry took the dollar and put it in his pocket as he replied, “Got it. Sunday it is then.”
Then Suzy retrieved another gold bar and looked to Albert, “This is a three ounce bar to pay for the plow. Dose this work for you?”
Albert looked the bar over and replied, “It has 3.2 stamped on it. Did you rob a gold mine?”
Suzy laughed, “Right, then I try to buy stuff from the Sheriff with it. Come on Albert will this get the Plow built?”
Slipping the bar in his pocket Albert questioned, “I assume you don’t want me to tell James about this?”
Suzy requested, “It would be nice if you let me tell him, but that is only if you feel good with it.”
Jim came out and questioned, “What’s going on out here?”
Albert informed, “Your wife just bought a horse from Henry.”
Jim replied, “She told me she was going to try to get a horse for the Wilson’s. Are you about ready to go to work Albert?”
Albert insisted, “Let’s go Henry; I got to teach James what real work is.”
At the blacksmith shop Henry parted ways with Albert and Jim. Jim and Albert went in the backdoor and removed the bar locking the big barn like doors. Jim pushed one door open and swung it back against the building. Then he looked across the street at Rebecca going in the Horseshoe restaurant. Pushing the other door against the building Albert called out, “Time to start the fire. No fire no money.”
Back at the Boardinghouse Suzy was helping Victoria cleanup after breakfast. When Benjamin confessed, “I was sitting on the porch last night, and I couldn’t help but over hear you and James. I heard you talk about the Truck.”
Suzy’s heart dropped to her stomach, and the color faded from her face as Benjamin went on, “I hate to admit it, but I didn’t know what a Truck was. I had to look it up in the dictionary. Now I’m just wondering what you’re trading.”
Suzy thought fast and replied, “You can't see it, but you know when it's there. You can’t buy it or take it. Sometimes a person may win it. Though not seen or heard it may be perceived. Some people want it; some people give it as a gift. It can make people insane, and people are hurt when they lose it. It can even be blind. It can be given to many, or just one. I’m trading a horse I Bought from Henry this morning for it.”
Then Suzy turned her back to Benjamin and went back to helping Victoria with the dishes. Benjamin got a bewildered look and went out on the porch.
Victoria exclaimed, “Way to go sweetie. He thought he was going to play in your sandbox. I guess you told him, so who’s love are you trading the horse for?
With a shocked look Suzy replied, “The Wilson’s children Victoria. Their son Tommy is the one Albert and James saved.”
At The Blacksmith shop the O'Connor brothers showed up with a load of wood. Albert showed them where to stack it behind the shop. Then Albert asked them to pick up the plow from the General Store.
After the O'Connor brothers dropped off the plow. Albert had Jim take off everything except the beam arm. Then they laid out the four plows. Jim could see his vision coming to reality. Each plow will make a 16-inch furrow, so Jim laid them out 16-inchs apart. Four 16-inch bottom plows mounted on the same frame will plow a 64-inch width. That was five feet per pass with the Truck. A smile came to Jim’s face as he thought how this dream was coming true. Jim was snapped out of his thoughts when Albert questioned, “Did you know Suzan paid Henry in gold for a horse this morning?”
Jim replied, “My wife came from a rich family. I didn’t marry her for her money. I married her for love, so what she does with her money is her life. I’m not all swelled up in the head that I have to run everything. If she wants to wear pants or a dress I love her just the same. I know she has her own money and that don’t bother me.”
Albert informed, “That beam lying over the hot coals is white hot. We need to bend it now. Put the gloves on and take one end and I’ll get the other. Then we’ll carry it over to the anvil and bend it over the Horn to a 90 degree angle.”
After they bent the beam they decided to go to get Henry for supper. Walking back to the Boardinghouse they were joined by Mable.
Henry questioned, “How goes the dress making business Mable?”
Mable replied, “Getting slow now that I finished Suzan’s dress. With this recession people are tight with their money. Except for our bounty hunter over there spending his reword he hasn’t got yet.”
Albert chuckled, “Don’t worry Jim Wells Fargo has never missed paying a bounty. Just ask Clyde the stagecoach driver. He’ll tell you.”
Henry snickered, “I think she’s trying to guilt James into buying a dress.”
Albert added. “No I think he’s more of the skirt kind of guy.”
Jim scolded, “Knock it off you guys. Just because my wife wares pants don’t mean I’m going to start wearing a skirt, besides my gun-belt wouldn’t go with a skirt anyway.”
Jim replied, “If I told you. You wouldn’t believe me, so we’ll just have to leave it at that.”
Benjamin insisted, “It’s the same place the smokeless bullets come from Albert.”
Albert picked up a hammer and hit the anvil with the ring hanging in the air he mumbled, “Fifty bucks plus material, and you have to help.”
Jim wasted no time and put out his hand. Albert set the hammer on the anvil and shook his hand. Then he took Jim’s hand and squeezed it so hard it hurt, but Jim just gritted his teeth and shook on it.”
Then Albert warned, “You know you might think you’re rich Jim, but you haven’t even got that reward yet. At the rate you are spending it. The money will most likely be gone in no time. You’re not rich you know.”
Jim looked Albert dead in the eyes and exclaimed, “You’re wrong Albert I’m rich as can be. You see I don’t measure wealth by how much money I have, but by how much love I give. You see the more love I give the more I get back. All the money in the world can’t buy that. Now let’s put a lot of love into this plow.”
Albert looked at the picture and explained, “You dropped off two plows, and I have one on the scrap pile broke the same way as the one you have. We need one more plow. I have a wheel from a wheelbarrow on the scrap pile I’m sure I have enough bar stock. Yep, I think we can do it, but James has to go buy a plow from Hank.”
Jim replied, “I’ll get it here even if I have to go get Patty, and drag the damn thing down the street to the blacksmith shop.”
Jim helped lay out the stuff for the plow, and arranged to get a plow from Hank. Then they went home for the night.
After dinner Benjamin read from the paper.
“On May 18, 1874 in Dention,
In a daring move James White foiled an attempted robbery by the notorious Jack Callen. Jack came in wielding a gun forcing the store owner Hank Williams of Dention to lie on the floor. Then he forced the clerk Miss Emily Johnson to give him the money. After Emily gave Jack the money, he insisted there must be more. Then he threatened to shoot Miss Johnson if she didn’t give it to him. Putting his life in danger James White went into action and in a daring move disarmed Jack and knocked him out. Adams County Sheriff Blocker transported Jack Callen to Lambert where he awaits trial.”
Benjamin went on, “Looks like Rebecca got here first headline, and Albert got his name in the paper again.”
Later that night after Henry had his nightly pipe. Jim and Suzy were lying in bed with the window open. Benjamin was sitting on the porch next to their window when the Crow landed on the window sill.
Suzy questioned, “When are we getting the truck?”
Jim replied, “I was thinking Sunday after church. We could put it just over the hill from their Farm.”
Suzy informed. “That sounds like a plan I’ll talk to Henry about it.”
Jim spoke softly, “I was looking back at things, and I remembered the day I first saw you standing on my front porch. That was the best day of my life. I was scared to death to see you there, and knew at that moment a change was coming to my life. I would say the second best day was when you put the check in my pocket, and started making wild bids. I was in shock and was not sure what was happening. In fact it’s still all blurry to this day, but now this ride we’re on is unbelievable. Everything moves so slowly, and it’s to quite. I need some music, but there is none.”
Suzy whispered, “You’re wrong Jim tomorrow is Friday and the piano player will be at the Saloon. I know from my time with Autum. She showed me this town and we sat in the Saloon a lot.”
Then the Crow flew in and landed on the bed. Looking at Jim it squawked. Jim responded, “I know I’m in too far, and I’m in way to deep. It’s like Tommy cast a spell across my heart. I feel tied to the children, and it’s like Tommy has a hold on me.”
It was late at night and Margaret was sitting in her prized possession. She had had that old rocker since the day Tommy came into the world. She was sewing on a quilt for her youngest Helen when Tommy appeared. Laying the quilt on her lap she pulled Tommy up on it and questioned, “What’s the matter Tommy?”
Tommy questioned, “Why is the cowboy lady so sad?”
Margaret inquired, “What do you mean Tommy?”
When James was holding me at Mrs. Peterson’s house I could see the cowboy lady, and she was sad. She was so sad I could feel it and it hurt. It was bad mom. She’s hurting inside, and there is nothing anyone can do. You need to help her mom.”
Margaret rocked Tommy and whispered, “What she needs is you Tommy. You see James and Suzan have no children, and that makes them sad. They need the love of you and your sisters to make the sadness go away. Next time you see that cowboy lady you give her a big hug and tell her thanks for the love. She is a special lady and a rare find.”
Tommy questioned, “Why don’t they have their own little boy and girl mom?”
Margaret smiled, “You’ll have to ask God that Tommy. Only God knows that, but be thankful he sent them to us. We needed something like this bad, and that there is an answer to my prayers. I love you Tommy and I’m riding your coattail this time.”
Benjamin thought he was well educated, but James and Suzan kept using words he didn’t know. Benjamin had to know what this Truck was, so he went to his room. Getting his Webster's Dictionary he looked up, “Truck.”
It read, “TRUCK, verb intransitive [Latin trochus, a round thing; Eng. truck ] To exchange commodities; to barter. Our traders truck with the Indians, giving them whiskey and trinkets for skins,
TRUCK, verb transitive To exchange; to give in exchange; to barter; as, to truck knives for gold dust. [Vulgar.]
TRUCK, noun Permutation; exchange of commodities; barter.
Benjamin thought, I wonder what their bartering for?
The next morning Suzy woke at four in the morning. She pulled her chamber pot from under the bed. Pulling out some of the gold bars she looked at the stamped numbers on them. Slipping two of them in her pocket she put the rest back, and slid the chamber pot back under the bed. Then she slipped her hand in Jim’s pants pocket. Fishing around she got a silver dollar and put it in her pocket.
Then she went out to help Victoria make the bread. Suzy stayed in the kitchen as everyone ate that morning. She watched for Albert and Henry to finish their pancakes. Then she went to the door and announced, “Albert, Henry can I talk to you outside for a minute?”
Then she stepped out the door. Albert and Henry followed her out. Henry spoke first, “What do you need Suzan?”
Suzy informed. “I would like to buy that horse you got for the guy’s boarding bill. Would you take two ounces of gold for that horse?”
Then Suzy pulled out a two ounce bar of gold and held it out. Henry took the gold bar and looked it over. Then he questioned, “What do you want this horse for?”
Suzy replied, “For the Wilson’s that have no way to get around.”
Henry put the bar in his pocket and insisted, “Deal.”
Suzy went on, “Here is a dollar I need two horses saddled up after church on Sunday, so James and I can take them the horse.”
Henry took the dollar and put it in his pocket as he replied, “Got it. Sunday it is then.”
Then Suzy retrieved another gold bar and looked to Albert, “This is a three ounce bar to pay for the plow. Dose this work for you?”
Albert looked the bar over and replied, “It has 3.2 stamped on it. Did you rob a gold mine?”
Suzy laughed, “Right, then I try to buy stuff from the Sheriff with it. Come on Albert will this get the Plow built?”
Slipping the bar in his pocket Albert questioned, “I assume you don’t want me to tell James about this?”
Suzy requested, “It would be nice if you let me tell him, but that is only if you feel good with it.”
Jim came out and questioned, “What’s going on out here?”
Albert informed, “Your wife just bought a horse from Henry.”
Jim replied, “She told me she was going to try to get a horse for the Wilson’s. Are you about ready to go to work Albert?”
Albert insisted, “Let’s go Henry; I got to teach James what real work is.”
At the blacksmith shop Henry parted ways with Albert and Jim. Jim and Albert went in the backdoor and removed the bar locking the big barn like doors. Jim pushed one door open and swung it back against the building. Then he looked across the street at Rebecca going in the Horseshoe restaurant. Pushing the other door against the building Albert called out, “Time to start the fire. No fire no money.”Back at the Boardinghouse Suzy was helping Victoria cleanup after breakfast. When Benjamin confessed, “I was sitting on the porch last night, and I couldn’t help but over hear you and James. I heard you talk about the Truck.”
Suzy’s heart dropped to her stomach, and the color faded from her face as Benjamin went on, “I hate to admit it, but I didn’t know what a Truck was. I had to look it up in the dictionary. Now I’m just wondering what you’re trading.”
Suzy thought fast and replied, “You can't see it, but you know when it's there. You can’t buy it or take it. Sometimes a person may win it. Though not seen or heard it may be perceived. Some people want it; some people give it as a gift. It can make people insane, and people are hurt when they lose it. It can even be blind. It can be given to many, or just one. I’m trading a horse I Bought from Henry this morning for it.”
Then Suzy turned her back to Benjamin and went back to helping Victoria with the dishes. Benjamin got a bewildered look and went out on the porch.
Victoria exclaimed, “Way to go sweetie. He thought he was going to play in your sandbox. I guess you told him, so who’s love are you trading the horse for?
With a shocked look Suzy replied, “The Wilson’s children Victoria. Their son Tommy is the one Albert and James saved.”
At The Blacksmith shop the O'Connor brothers showed up with a load of wood. Albert showed them where to stack it behind the shop. Then Albert asked them to pick up the plow from the General Store.
After the O'Connor brothers dropped off the plow. Albert had Jim take off everything except the beam arm. Then they laid out the four plows. Jim could see his vision coming to reality. Each plow will make a 16-inch furrow, so Jim laid them out 16-inchs apart. Four 16-inch bottom plows mounted on the same frame will plow a 64-inch width. That was five feet per pass with the Truck. A smile came to Jim’s face as he thought how this dream was coming true. Jim was snapped out of his thoughts when Albert questioned, “Did you know Suzan paid Henry in gold for a horse this morning?”Jim replied, “My wife came from a rich family. I didn’t marry her for her money. I married her for love, so what she does with her money is her life. I’m not all swelled up in the head that I have to run everything. If she wants to wear pants or a dress I love her just the same. I know she has her own money and that don’t bother me.”
Albert informed, “That beam lying over the hot coals is white hot. We need to bend it now. Put the gloves on and take one end and I’ll get the other. Then we’ll carry it over to the anvil and bend it over the Horn to a 90 degree angle.”
After they bent the beam they decided to go to get Henry for supper. Walking back to the Boardinghouse they were joined by Mable.
Henry questioned, “How goes the dress making business Mable?”
Mable replied, “Getting slow now that I finished Suzan’s dress. With this recession people are tight with their money. Except for our bounty hunter over there spending his reword he hasn’t got yet.”
Albert chuckled, “Don’t worry Jim Wells Fargo has never missed paying a bounty. Just ask Clyde the stagecoach driver. He’ll tell you.”
Henry snickered, “I think she’s trying to guilt James into buying a dress.”
Albert added. “No I think he’s more of the skirt kind of guy.”
Jim scolded, “Knock it off you guys. Just because my wife wares pants don’t mean I’m going to start wearing a skirt, besides my gun-belt wouldn’t go with a skirt anyway.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Fourteen – Stopping Time
Thangs went back to normal until Sunday after noon. After church Jim and Suzy talked about taking the horse to the Wilson’s
Suzy insisted, “I need to get out of this dress, so after we get the horses we’re going to stop by the house.”
Jim questioned, “Are we getting the truck before or after we give them the horse?”
Suzy replied, “I think we should get the truck staged first. Then take them the horse.”
After Suzy changed her clothes and they road through town Jim revealed, “You know the day I went to the Cooper’s with Albert. I was scared he was taking me to the farm. Now after church I over heard someone say Mr. Hanson bought the Cooper place. Albert thinks grandma is a Witch and making these things happen, so they can get the land. You and I both know that’s most likely true, but you know there’s nothing we can do.”
Suzy replied, “I know, I heard the same thing, and now I think my Crow had nothing to do with Mr. Cooper’s death. I think my Crow was trying to warn him not to come out of the house, but his wicked thoughts about controlling everything killed him. Just like beating his wife to submit to his wishes. He thought he could kill enough birds to make them submit to him. He was a control freak, and it killed him.”
Jim mumbled, “Did the Crow tell you that?”
Suzy replied, “Maybe.”
Soon they had reached the creek and headed to the truck. At the truck Suzy tied the horses to a low branch. Then she listened to the light breeze rustling the leaves and the sound of the creek flowing over the rocks, as Jim hooked up the battery cables. Then Jim climbed up in the truck, and gave it a try. After a couple of attempts the truck roared to life. With that Suzy explained, “I going to go scout out a rout to the Wilson’s”
Then she rode off, as Jim watched her cross the field. Jim took the horses down to the creek for a drink. Then he came back and let down the tailgate. Sitting on the tailgate he pulled the watch from his pocket and checked the time. It had been about twenty minutes, and Jim thought she should be back any moment. That’s if that the truck was only about a mile away like they thought. Getting down Jim walked out in the field and looked around. Pulling out his watch he checked the time. Suzy had been gone a little over a half hour. Jim paced back and forth thinking, I wonder if she got lost. Maybe I should go look for her. No I need to give her more time.
Jim got more impatient as time passed. Finely after an hour he saw someone off in the distance. Whoever it was they were making a B-line for him. Jim went and got his horse in case he needed to lead them away from the truck. Then the rider got close enough he could tell it was Suzy.
Riding up to Jim Suzy explained, “I came out on the road about a half mile south of their place. I had to back track and make a path back here.”
Pointing across the field Suzy continued, “The Wilson’s place is about a mile and a half that way. Just get the truck going and follow me.”
The breeze had turned into a study wind, and clouds were moving in. Suzy tethered Jim and the Wilson’s horse to hers, and noticed the wind stopped. Suzy headed out across the field. Jim followed in the truck as the Crow flew overhead. Crossing the field they came into some trees. Suzy saw a leaf hanging in the air. She pulled back on the rains, and slowly maneuvered to the leaf. Then she reached out and pushed it with her finger. It moved over a little, but it was still hanging in the air.
Taking a deep breath she road to the truck next to Jim and yelled. “Turn the truck off.”
Jim turned the truck off and the leaf fluttered to the ground as Suzy’s hair blew in the wind. Jim noticed all the leafs in the trees started to shake around, and Suzy’s hair blew in the wind. Jim thought, What the hell. Then started the truck, and watched Suzy’s hair fall slack and the leaf’s in the trees come to a stop.
Jim looked at Suzy with a puzzled look. Suzy shrugged her shoulders and waved on word, as she continued to guide Jim to the Wilson’s farm. Then Suzy came to a stop and ran her finger across her throat. Jim stopped the truck, and Suzy’s hair was blowing in the wind again. Locking the door Jim put the key in his pocket.
Suzy handed Jim the rains to his horse and informed. “The light you see through the trees is the Wilson’s field. I need to tell you something about the Wilson’s. I had a long talk with Victoria about them. The father is a proud man, and most likely won’t accept the horse out of pride. What I think we should do is I’ll give the horse to Tommy. What do you think?”
Jim replied, “If that is what you think we should do then we can give it a try.”
Tommy saw Jim and Suzy riding across the field and ran to the house yelling, “James and the cowboy lady are here.”
Margaret came out to the porch, as Suzy was climbing down from her horse. Giving the rains a flip over the porch rail Suzy announced, “I came to collect another payment Margaret.”
Jesse walked up as Tommy ran up and hugged Suzy and informed, “I’m glad you came back. I missed you so much.”
Suzy knelled on one knee and questioned, “Do you know what responsibility is Tommy?”
Tommy explained, “I think it’s when you do what you need to do without being told.”
Suzy wrapped her arms around Tommy and continued, “I’m so proud of you.” Then slipping back and leaving her hands on his shoulders she explained, “I came here to see if I could hire you for a job. You see the livery in town is charging me too much to take care of my horse. I was thinking of paying you 10¢ a week to do it for me. You would have to make sure Daisy has water and food every day. She will need exercise too. Maybe you could have your dad teach you how to hitch Daisy up to your buckboard. Then he could teach you to drive it to town so you can see me. Then you could see where I live. You would have to bring your Mom and sisters with you. Do you think you could do that?”
Tommy looked to his dad. Jesse insisted, “I don’t think the boy is old enough to take on that responsibility.”
Suzy snapped back, “Then you’re going to have to work with him. You want him to grow up to be a strong responsible man don’t you? Well don’t you?”
Jesse mumbled. “Sure.”
Suzy continued, “Then teach him! He can’t learn this out of a book. This knowledge is passed from father to son. He needs a man to teach him this.”
Jesse knotted his head and Tommy put out his hand and said, “Shake on it.”
Suzy took his hand and gave it a shake and insisted, “Your job starts now. Take Daisy over to the corral and fill the water trough.”
Tommy replied, “Yes mam.”
Jim Looked at Jesse and motioned his head to the barn. Then Jim started walking over to the barn. Jesse walked along side Jim as Jim explained, “I’ll have the plow done tomorrow, and bring it by Tuesday. My wife wants to take your wife and the kids to town. She wants to have dresses made for the girls. The dress maker is having a hard go of it, and needs the money. This will help out the dress maker and bring joy to my wife. I need you to take them in my wagon.”
Jesse replied, “Look I don’t buy this horse boarding thing, and I think this is just a way to give us a horse we wouldn’t take.”
Jim snapped back, “The horse is ours and don’t be mistaken about that. Look Jesse its $5 a week to board the horse. If we don’t do this deal then we give the horse to the livery for the bill. Don’t you think this is better? You get a horse to use, and your son learns things he needs to know. Most of all we don’t lose our horse to some rich livery owner. Don’t even think about stealing my wife’s joy of helping the dress maker and your daughter’s.”
Jesse gulped, “Only because you’ll be plowing the field and you’re my partner in this quest. There won’t be any joy in it for me you know.”
Jim replied, “I know. I wouldn’t like to be stuck with that job, but it has to be done. You can’t let women take kids in a wagon on a trip like that, and you know it.”
Suzy sat on the porch. Then she called Helen over. Pulling a peppermint stick from her inside pocket she handed it to Helen. Then she called Pearl over and gave her a peppermint stick. Looking at Tommy caring a bucket of water Suzy questioned, “Is that the last one Tommy?”
Tommy answered, “Nope, I got a get one more?”
Suzy instructed, “Come see me when you’re done.”
Sitting on the porch Suzy talked to Helen, “What is your favorite color?”
Helen replied, “Purple, because it’s the best.”
Suzy laughed, “Of course the Princess color. I should have known that is what a Princess would like.”
Pearl spoke up, “I like red the best. Red flowers are hard to find, and that makes them worth more.”
Suzy acknowledged, “That’s real smart Pearl. A lot of grownups don’t understand that. I got you peppermint because that’s my favorite. What’s your favorite stick candy?”
Pearl answered, “I don’t know this is the only kind I’ve ever had.”
Helen added, “Me too.”
Suzy scratched her head and said, “Hmm, we might have to fix that.”
Then Tommy came up and announced, “All done.”
Suzy pulled out a peppermint stick and handed it to Tommy. He sat next to his sisters and talked with Suzy. Out at the barn Jim and Jesse were talking about plowing the field, and checking out Jesse’s harrow. Jesse explained, “I put rocks on it to make it work better. I’ve even let Tommy ride on it.”
Jim commented, “I like it that you work with Tommy. I just hope you teach him how important it is to take care of a horse. I would add don’t be too hard on him if he makes some mistakes. We all make mistakes its part of learning. It’s a lot harder when you’re older and you have to face them yourself. I know because I’ve made my share.”
Jesse replied, “I think with my help Tommy will do you right.”
Jim added, “Don’t be afraid to use Daisy that’s part of the deal. I can’t expect you to board our horse for ten cents a week. Hook her up to your buckboard and take the family somewhere. Like church would be nice.”
Jesse replied, “It’s something to think about.”
Jim informed, “I better check on Suzan and see if she’s ready to go.”
Jim and Suzy road back to the Livery and dropped off the horses. Then they walked to the Boardinghouse. Coming on to the porch Hank and Henry were across from Albert and Benjamin sitting on the bench. Suzy walked in-between them and went in the house. Jim stopped to talk.
Henry questioned, “Well would they take the horse?”
Jim replied, “Hell no! Jesse’s pride would never allow that, but Suzan knew that. We had to use plan B. We’re paying Tommy 10¢ a week to take care of the horse. Jesse didn’t like it much, but we didn’t give him a way out.”
Hank questioned, “Why are you doing so much for the Wilson family? There are other family’s that are in the same situation.”
Albert spoke up, “Because James believes that when you save a life. You’re responsible for that life as long as you live. The only way he can do that now is to care for the family.”
Hank replied, “I thought that was an Indian belief?”
Jim snapped back, “No! It’s a human thing to do. I would ask why you let them run up their bill so high. You knew they most likely could never pay it back, because it was the human thing to do. I know you Hank you’re only tuff on the outside. Inside you have a heart of gold, and I’m proud to know you for that.”
Inside Suze had changed back into her dress, and put on her apron. Victoria questioned, “How where the girls?”
Suzy announced, “I found Helen’s favorite color is purple, and Pearl’s favorite color is red. That they have never had store bought candy, and they need shoes.”
Mable questioned, “I take it you will be bringing the girls in on Tuesday for measurements, as we discussed?”
Suzy replied, “That’s the plan.”
Emily asked, “You bringing them to the store for shoes Suzan?”
Suzy replied, “I think I’m doing that first. Jim is going to be plowing their field, so I think I’ll take them to the Horseshoe for supper. You hear that Victoria Jim and I won’t be here for supper on Tuesday,”
Victoria laughed, “I’m in the same room Suzan. Not the next county.”
They all laughed and Victoria insisted, “Why don’t you smash the potatoes Suzan. We slaved all day well you were out playing with the kids. It’s the least you can do.”
Suzy picked up a potholder and replied, “That’s fun too you know.”
At the dinner table Hank informed, “I heard Mr. Hanson is buying the Cooper farm. That makes what? I think four this year?”
Henry argued, “I think it was only three. There was the Wolf, Mountain Lion, and Bird attack.”
Hank added what about the Bear attack on Mr. Robinson in January none the less. I know he hung on for a week, but Mr. Hanson bought the property just the same.”
Albert informed, “I forgot all about the Bear attack. Boy was that strange.”
Victoria cleared her throat, and Jim informed, “I think this is porch talk. Not at the dinner table.”
Albert agreed, “I think Jim’s right.”
After dinner as always Benjamin read from the Newspaper.
“The Philadelphia Zoo, located in the Centennial District of Philadelphia, on the west bank of the Schuylkill River, is the first true zoo in the United States. It was chartered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on March 21, 1859, but its opening was delayed by the Civil War until July 1, 1874. As of today all are welcome to view the animals.
Surprisingly it was good and roomy area for the elephants. The Zoo is very organized and clean with friendly staff. You can easily see what they have done with the money. Apart from plants, bushes and grassy grounds in the Zoo, there are many animals which come from many countries of the world.”
The next morning as Jim Albert and Henry walked to work. Albert asked, “Jim do you believe in witches like Benjamin?”
Jim responded, “I don’t think it’s that simple. I believe in good and evil. I believe the Bible tells us that fallen angels are demons. With this knowledge I think if I saw a demon and an angel side by side I wouldn’t know which was evil and which was good. Only by their works would one know. I also believe they both walk among us. I would think what you call a Witch is nothing more than a demon. Does that answer your question Albert?”
Henry replied, “I don’t know about Albert, but you got me thinking.”
Albert rephrased his question, “Then do you think Edna Hanson is possessed by a demon?
Jim replied, “I believe she is straight up evil. Let’s Just leave it at that.”
Albert commented, “Looks like the O'Connor brothers left Jim’s wagon right in front of the doors. Will you give us a hand pushing it out of the way Henry?”
Henry replied, “Sure, and I thought Blacksmiths were strong.”
Pushing the wagon to the side Albert teased, “You want to arm wrestle and find out?”
Thangs went back to normal until Sunday after noon. After church Jim and Suzy talked about taking the horse to the Wilson’s
Suzy insisted, “I need to get out of this dress, so after we get the horses we’re going to stop by the house.”
Jim questioned, “Are we getting the truck before or after we give them the horse?”
Suzy replied, “I think we should get the truck staged first. Then take them the horse.”
After Suzy changed her clothes and they road through town Jim revealed, “You know the day I went to the Cooper’s with Albert. I was scared he was taking me to the farm. Now after church I over heard someone say Mr. Hanson bought the Cooper place. Albert thinks grandma is a Witch and making these things happen, so they can get the land. You and I both know that’s most likely true, but you know there’s nothing we can do.”
Suzy replied, “I know, I heard the same thing, and now I think my Crow had nothing to do with Mr. Cooper’s death. I think my Crow was trying to warn him not to come out of the house, but his wicked thoughts about controlling everything killed him. Just like beating his wife to submit to his wishes. He thought he could kill enough birds to make them submit to him. He was a control freak, and it killed him.”
Jim mumbled, “Did the Crow tell you that?”
Suzy replied, “Maybe.”
Soon they had reached the creek and headed to the truck. At the truck Suzy tied the horses to a low branch. Then she listened to the light breeze rustling the leaves and the sound of the creek flowing over the rocks, as Jim hooked up the battery cables. Then Jim climbed up in the truck, and gave it a try. After a couple of attempts the truck roared to life. With that Suzy explained, “I going to go scout out a rout to the Wilson’s”
Then she rode off, as Jim watched her cross the field. Jim took the horses down to the creek for a drink. Then he came back and let down the tailgate. Sitting on the tailgate he pulled the watch from his pocket and checked the time. It had been about twenty minutes, and Jim thought she should be back any moment. That’s if that the truck was only about a mile away like they thought. Getting down Jim walked out in the field and looked around. Pulling out his watch he checked the time. Suzy had been gone a little over a half hour. Jim paced back and forth thinking, I wonder if she got lost. Maybe I should go look for her. No I need to give her more time.
Jim got more impatient as time passed. Finely after an hour he saw someone off in the distance. Whoever it was they were making a B-line for him. Jim went and got his horse in case he needed to lead them away from the truck. Then the rider got close enough he could tell it was Suzy.
Riding up to Jim Suzy explained, “I came out on the road about a half mile south of their place. I had to back track and make a path back here.”
Pointing across the field Suzy continued, “The Wilson’s place is about a mile and a half that way. Just get the truck going and follow me.”
The breeze had turned into a study wind, and clouds were moving in. Suzy tethered Jim and the Wilson’s horse to hers, and noticed the wind stopped. Suzy headed out across the field. Jim followed in the truck as the Crow flew overhead. Crossing the field they came into some trees. Suzy saw a leaf hanging in the air. She pulled back on the rains, and slowly maneuvered to the leaf. Then she reached out and pushed it with her finger. It moved over a little, but it was still hanging in the air.
Taking a deep breath she road to the truck next to Jim and yelled. “Turn the truck off.”
Jim turned the truck off and the leaf fluttered to the ground as Suzy’s hair blew in the wind. Jim noticed all the leafs in the trees started to shake around, and Suzy’s hair blew in the wind. Jim thought, What the hell. Then started the truck, and watched Suzy’s hair fall slack and the leaf’s in the trees come to a stop.
Jim looked at Suzy with a puzzled look. Suzy shrugged her shoulders and waved on word, as she continued to guide Jim to the Wilson’s farm. Then Suzy came to a stop and ran her finger across her throat. Jim stopped the truck, and Suzy’s hair was blowing in the wind again. Locking the door Jim put the key in his pocket.
Suzy handed Jim the rains to his horse and informed. “The light you see through the trees is the Wilson’s field. I need to tell you something about the Wilson’s. I had a long talk with Victoria about them. The father is a proud man, and most likely won’t accept the horse out of pride. What I think we should do is I’ll give the horse to Tommy. What do you think?”
Jim replied, “If that is what you think we should do then we can give it a try.”
Tommy saw Jim and Suzy riding across the field and ran to the house yelling, “James and the cowboy lady are here.”
Margaret came out to the porch, as Suzy was climbing down from her horse. Giving the rains a flip over the porch rail Suzy announced, “I came to collect another payment Margaret.”
Jesse walked up as Tommy ran up and hugged Suzy and informed, “I’m glad you came back. I missed you so much.”
Suzy knelled on one knee and questioned, “Do you know what responsibility is Tommy?”
Tommy explained, “I think it’s when you do what you need to do without being told.”
Suzy wrapped her arms around Tommy and continued, “I’m so proud of you.” Then slipping back and leaving her hands on his shoulders she explained, “I came here to see if I could hire you for a job. You see the livery in town is charging me too much to take care of my horse. I was thinking of paying you 10¢ a week to do it for me. You would have to make sure Daisy has water and food every day. She will need exercise too. Maybe you could have your dad teach you how to hitch Daisy up to your buckboard. Then he could teach you to drive it to town so you can see me. Then you could see where I live. You would have to bring your Mom and sisters with you. Do you think you could do that?”
Tommy looked to his dad. Jesse insisted, “I don’t think the boy is old enough to take on that responsibility.”
Suzy snapped back, “Then you’re going to have to work with him. You want him to grow up to be a strong responsible man don’t you? Well don’t you?”
Jesse mumbled. “Sure.”
Suzy continued, “Then teach him! He can’t learn this out of a book. This knowledge is passed from father to son. He needs a man to teach him this.”
Jesse knotted his head and Tommy put out his hand and said, “Shake on it.”
Suzy took his hand and gave it a shake and insisted, “Your job starts now. Take Daisy over to the corral and fill the water trough.”
Tommy replied, “Yes mam.”
Jim Looked at Jesse and motioned his head to the barn. Then Jim started walking over to the barn. Jesse walked along side Jim as Jim explained, “I’ll have the plow done tomorrow, and bring it by Tuesday. My wife wants to take your wife and the kids to town. She wants to have dresses made for the girls. The dress maker is having a hard go of it, and needs the money. This will help out the dress maker and bring joy to my wife. I need you to take them in my wagon.”
Jesse replied, “Look I don’t buy this horse boarding thing, and I think this is just a way to give us a horse we wouldn’t take.”
Jim snapped back, “The horse is ours and don’t be mistaken about that. Look Jesse its $5 a week to board the horse. If we don’t do this deal then we give the horse to the livery for the bill. Don’t you think this is better? You get a horse to use, and your son learns things he needs to know. Most of all we don’t lose our horse to some rich livery owner. Don’t even think about stealing my wife’s joy of helping the dress maker and your daughter’s.”
Jesse gulped, “Only because you’ll be plowing the field and you’re my partner in this quest. There won’t be any joy in it for me you know.”
Jim replied, “I know. I wouldn’t like to be stuck with that job, but it has to be done. You can’t let women take kids in a wagon on a trip like that, and you know it.”
Suzy sat on the porch. Then she called Helen over. Pulling a peppermint stick from her inside pocket she handed it to Helen. Then she called Pearl over and gave her a peppermint stick. Looking at Tommy caring a bucket of water Suzy questioned, “Is that the last one Tommy?”
Tommy answered, “Nope, I got a get one more?”
Suzy instructed, “Come see me when you’re done.”
Sitting on the porch Suzy talked to Helen, “What is your favorite color?”
Helen replied, “Purple, because it’s the best.”
Suzy laughed, “Of course the Princess color. I should have known that is what a Princess would like.”
Pearl spoke up, “I like red the best. Red flowers are hard to find, and that makes them worth more.”
Suzy acknowledged, “That’s real smart Pearl. A lot of grownups don’t understand that. I got you peppermint because that’s my favorite. What’s your favorite stick candy?”
Pearl answered, “I don’t know this is the only kind I’ve ever had.”
Helen added, “Me too.”
Suzy scratched her head and said, “Hmm, we might have to fix that.”
Then Tommy came up and announced, “All done.”
Suzy pulled out a peppermint stick and handed it to Tommy. He sat next to his sisters and talked with Suzy. Out at the barn Jim and Jesse were talking about plowing the field, and checking out Jesse’s harrow. Jesse explained, “I put rocks on it to make it work better. I’ve even let Tommy ride on it.”
Jim commented, “I like it that you work with Tommy. I just hope you teach him how important it is to take care of a horse. I would add don’t be too hard on him if he makes some mistakes. We all make mistakes its part of learning. It’s a lot harder when you’re older and you have to face them yourself. I know because I’ve made my share.”
Jesse replied, “I think with my help Tommy will do you right.”
Jim added, “Don’t be afraid to use Daisy that’s part of the deal. I can’t expect you to board our horse for ten cents a week. Hook her up to your buckboard and take the family somewhere. Like church would be nice.”
Jesse replied, “It’s something to think about.”
Jim informed, “I better check on Suzan and see if she’s ready to go.”
Jim and Suzy road back to the Livery and dropped off the horses. Then they walked to the Boardinghouse. Coming on to the porch Hank and Henry were across from Albert and Benjamin sitting on the bench. Suzy walked in-between them and went in the house. Jim stopped to talk.
Henry questioned, “Well would they take the horse?”
Jim replied, “Hell no! Jesse’s pride would never allow that, but Suzan knew that. We had to use plan B. We’re paying Tommy 10¢ a week to take care of the horse. Jesse didn’t like it much, but we didn’t give him a way out.”
Hank questioned, “Why are you doing so much for the Wilson family? There are other family’s that are in the same situation.”
Albert spoke up, “Because James believes that when you save a life. You’re responsible for that life as long as you live. The only way he can do that now is to care for the family.”
Hank replied, “I thought that was an Indian belief?”
Jim snapped back, “No! It’s a human thing to do. I would ask why you let them run up their bill so high. You knew they most likely could never pay it back, because it was the human thing to do. I know you Hank you’re only tuff on the outside. Inside you have a heart of gold, and I’m proud to know you for that.”
Inside Suze had changed back into her dress, and put on her apron. Victoria questioned, “How where the girls?”
Suzy announced, “I found Helen’s favorite color is purple, and Pearl’s favorite color is red. That they have never had store bought candy, and they need shoes.”
Mable questioned, “I take it you will be bringing the girls in on Tuesday for measurements, as we discussed?”
Suzy replied, “That’s the plan.”
Emily asked, “You bringing them to the store for shoes Suzan?”
Suzy replied, “I think I’m doing that first. Jim is going to be plowing their field, so I think I’ll take them to the Horseshoe for supper. You hear that Victoria Jim and I won’t be here for supper on Tuesday,”
Victoria laughed, “I’m in the same room Suzan. Not the next county.”
They all laughed and Victoria insisted, “Why don’t you smash the potatoes Suzan. We slaved all day well you were out playing with the kids. It’s the least you can do.”
Suzy picked up a potholder and replied, “That’s fun too you know.”
At the dinner table Hank informed, “I heard Mr. Hanson is buying the Cooper farm. That makes what? I think four this year?”
Henry argued, “I think it was only three. There was the Wolf, Mountain Lion, and Bird attack.”
Hank added what about the Bear attack on Mr. Robinson in January none the less. I know he hung on for a week, but Mr. Hanson bought the property just the same.”
Albert informed, “I forgot all about the Bear attack. Boy was that strange.”
Victoria cleared her throat, and Jim informed, “I think this is porch talk. Not at the dinner table.”
Albert agreed, “I think Jim’s right.”
After dinner as always Benjamin read from the Newspaper.
“The Philadelphia Zoo, located in the Centennial District of Philadelphia, on the west bank of the Schuylkill River, is the first true zoo in the United States. It was chartered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on March 21, 1859, but its opening was delayed by the Civil War until July 1, 1874. As of today all are welcome to view the animals.
Surprisingly it was good and roomy area for the elephants. The Zoo is very organized and clean with friendly staff. You can easily see what they have done with the money. Apart from plants, bushes and grassy grounds in the Zoo, there are many animals which come from many countries of the world.”
The next morning as Jim Albert and Henry walked to work. Albert asked, “Jim do you believe in witches like Benjamin?”
Jim responded, “I don’t think it’s that simple. I believe in good and evil. I believe the Bible tells us that fallen angels are demons. With this knowledge I think if I saw a demon and an angel side by side I wouldn’t know which was evil and which was good. Only by their works would one know. I also believe they both walk among us. I would think what you call a Witch is nothing more than a demon. Does that answer your question Albert?”
Henry replied, “I don’t know about Albert, but you got me thinking.”
Albert rephrased his question, “Then do you think Edna Hanson is possessed by a demon?
Jim replied, “I believe she is straight up evil. Let’s Just leave it at that.”
Albert commented, “Looks like the O'Connor brothers left Jim’s wagon right in front of the doors. Will you give us a hand pushing it out of the way Henry?”
Henry replied, “Sure, and I thought Blacksmiths were strong.”
Pushing the wagon to the side Albert teased, “You want to arm wrestle and find out?”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Henry replied, “Don’t have time I have a business to run. I can’t sit around all day drinking coffee like some guys.”
Jim and Albert went in the backdoor and removed the bar locking the big barn like doors. Jim pushed one door open and swung it back against the building, as Albert did the other. Then they looked at the plow. Just one brace and it would be finished. Jim started a fire in the forge. Then pumped the bellows a few time to get it going. Albert made up the coffee pot and set it on the back of the forge.
Looking at Jim Albert confessed, “I need some customers. I like to work and now it’s going to get slow again, and I’ll have to walk around town acting like I’m keeping the peace. Just so I don’t feel lonely or bored. Henry is lucky he has the horses and the stable boy to keep him company.”
Jim mumbled, “After we finish up the plow I’m going to go get a shave.”
Albert questioned, “I’ve seen your razor next to the washbowl through your window. Why don’t you use it to shave yourself?”
Jim laughed, “You know I’ve tried that, but when I’m done I look like I was attacked by Chief straight razor. I don’t have enough blood to do that to many times.”
Albert laughed, “I’ll go with you. I need a haircut anyway.”
After they went to the barber they went home for lunch. Then back to the Blacksmith Shop. Albert undid a rope going through a pulley hooked to a beam. He lowered the hook down to the plow. Then he announced, “I bet this thing must weigh 400 pounds. We need a horse to lift this up.”
Jim informed, “I’ll go get Patty.”
Jim went next door and got Patty, as Albert hooked the plow to the rope. When Jim got back they backed the wagon in the door until it was by the plow. Jim put a harness on patty and hooked the rope to it. Then he took the rains and pulled her forewords. The rope went tight and the plow lifted off the dirt floor.
Then Albert yelled, “About another foot Jim.”
Jim pulled patty until he heard Albert yell, “Good.”
Then Albert came around and pushed the wagon under the plow. Walking to the back of the wagon he announced, “OK let it down. I’m leaving it hang out so you can roll it off the wagon. We’ll just have to tie it down.”
Jim eased Patty back and patted her saying, “Good girl. You did good Patty.”
With the rope slack Jim walked around to the back of the wagon, and helped Albert tie down the plow. Then he stepped back and looked at the plow. With a smile Jim informed, “Thanks Albert, I’ll pay you as soon as I get my money.”
Putting his hand in his pocket, Albert rubbed the gold bar and insisted, “Don’t worry about it James. It’s all taken care of. Just get enough of a crop to feed the children through the winter.”
Jim took Patty back to the livery as emotions flowed through his thoughts. He couldn’t wait until tomorrow he wanted to go plow the field now, but he had to wait. The afternoon seamed to drag on as he helped Albert clean up the shop.
Back at the Boardinghouse Jim was in a daze as Albert bragged about the plow, and teased Jim about not being able to pull it. Jim knew he could pull the plow with the truck, but couldn’t say a thing. It all just knotted up inside of him. Jim just wanted to tell someone, “Hay look at what I can do!” That was just out of the question.
Jim was quiet at dinner and went to bed early. Suzy came in and laid next to Jim. Suzy pulled Jim’s arm under her head. Then she put her head on his shoulder and whispered, “I know you Jim. The night is closing in, and you’re going crazy. I know you feel like you’re trying to do too much, but you got this Jim. You’ve put a spell across all of our hearts. Love always wins in the end.
I can’t wait to spread some love around this town tomorrow, and undo some of what that witch has done. Just remember evil can’t undo what love dose, so plow that field with love. Now sleep my sweet love.”
Jim drifted into a deep sleep and Autum came to him. They were sitting in the truck and Autum laid her head on Jims shoulder and whispered, “I’ve missed you my sweet love, but I need to tell you this. You’re at a turning point and this is important. Your very survival and well-being are dependent on it. Trickery is fine, but you can’t lie. You’ll half to tell the truth or say nothing at all, and don’t worry. The truth will never harm you, so just use your judgment. We can fix this it’s just going to take a lot of love. Remember my dear sweet one, love wins every time. Now go use it.
Now about you and what changed things. When you saved Tommy another life had to be given up. Thankfully it was an evil one. You see you traded Tommy’s life for Mr. Cooper’s life. Then win you saved the lady from choking to death. You traded that life and the life of her unborn child for two others. Everything you do changes much more than you’ll ever know, but don’t worry love always wins.”
Then Autum faded away as Jim awoke to Suzy shaking him. “Come on Jim this is the big day.”
Then Suzy slipped out the door as Jim looked out the window. It was still dark outside, but Suzy had lit the lamp for Jim. He sat up on the edge of the bed and rubbed his eyes. Then Jim walked to the washbowl and poured in some water. Then he splashed some water on his face. Dried his face, and got dressed. Then Suzy came back in and requested, “Can you help me with the box, I need to get some money for today.”
Suzy took some paper money and change. Then she grabbed a handful of Nickels. Then she asked Jim to put the box back, and went back to the kitchen.
Coming out Jim saw Victoria and Suzy in the kitchen. Suzy looked up from kneading the bread dough and announced, “Just have a seat James I’ll make you some pancakes as soon as the stove gets heated up.”
After they ate they head out to get Charlie and Patty. Walking down main street Suzy exclaimed, “I’m so excited I can’t wait to watch the kids pick out candy for the first time. I don’t know who is getting more love me or the kids.”
Jim smiled as he replied, “Love makes love, then it just flows around touching everyone next to it. By the way Autum came to me last night.”
Suzy blurted, “Me too, she told me not to lie.”
Jim mumbled, “Me too. Are you going to get Charlie and Patty well I open the blacksmith shop?”
Suzy replied, “Sure, just be careful it’s still a little dark. Do you have matches to light the lantern to see in there?”
Jim replied, “Got it covered.”
In no time the team was hitched up, and parked in the street. Jim put the bar back on the door, and headed out. The ride to the Wilson’s seemed to take forever. At last Jim mad it to the farm. He looped the wagon out into the field to unload the plow. Jesse came out and Suzy headed to the house. The Kids where still at the table eating. Margaret was doing some dishes as she said, “Have a seat Suzan.”
Suzy sat at the table and questioned, “Are you excited about today?
Like an explosion they all talked at once trying to talk over each other. Suzy insisted, “That’s enough I got it. Now let’s see if we can finish eating so we can go.”
Margaret laughed, “You asked and you got it. They have been like this since yesterday morning.”
Jim and Jesse tipped the plow out of the back of the wagon. It rolled over upside down on the ground, so Jim tied the rope on to the plow and the back of the wagon. Then he had Jesse pull the wagon forward. The rope went tight and Jesse gave the rained a whip and yelled, “Yah!” the wagon moved forward, and the plow flipped over with a thud. Pulling back on the rains Jesse called out, “Whoa.” Charlie and Patty came to a standstill, and Jim untied the rope.
Then Jesse took the wagon to the front of the house and wrapped the rains around the break handle. Walking up Jim announced, “Now I just have to wait for the guy to get here with the draft horses.”
Jesse questioned, “You sure about this James?”
James replied, “You just take the family and have a good time. I got this.”
Jim watched them load up and pull out with Helen sitting on Suzy’s lap on one side of Jesse and Margaret on the other. Tommy and Pearl waved from the back as they went out of sight. Then Jim went and got the truck. He was backing it up to the plow when he saw Suzy out the driver window. Stopping the truck Jim rolled down the window and questioned, “What’s the matter?”
Suzy replied, “Time stopped. You and I are the only ones that are not affected. The wagon was moving along then everything just stopped. Except Helen and me, but as soon as I set her down she was frozen in place. I reached out and touched Tommy and he turned and looked at me. It freaked me out and I jerked my hand away. Then he was frozen again, so time has stopped for everything unless we touch it.”
Jim thought about Suzy’s hair the day they moved the truck. Then Jim replied, “Since you’re here can you guide me to the plow?”
Suzy went to the back of the truck and guided Jim in. Jim got out and hooked up the plow and insisted, “Let’s go check the wagon.”
Walking up behind the wagon Jim could tell nothing was moving, so he went to Tommy and touched him. He turned his head and looked at Jim. Jim spoke softly “I’m in your dream Tommy.” Then pulled his hand away, and looked to Suzy informing, “Looks like your stuck here with me until I’m done. I think I’m taking Tommy with us.”
Suzy replied, “You sure?”
Jim answered, “He’ll think it’s a dream, and have the time of his life.”
Jim walked to the back of the wagon and touched Tommy again saying, “Over here Tommy.” Tommy turned his head as Jim informed, “Aren’t dreams neat how I can jump around like that. Her take my hand and we’ll plow the field.”
Jim and Suzy walked Tommy to the truck. Jim lifted Tommy up into the cab and let go and Tommy didn’t freeze. Looking to Suzy Jim informed, “The truck works too.”
Then Jim got in the truck and explained, “This is my Iron Horse and it runs on love. You can only use it in a dream when you are giving each other lots of love. Let’s see if we can give it enough love to make it go.”
Suzy grabbed ahold of Tommy and said, “I love you Tommy.”
Jim let out the clutch and stepped on the gas. The engine growled and the truck jerked a few times and they were off. The roar of the engine echoed in the cab as the truck chugged along. Tommy bounced up and down on the seat as he cried out, “It’s working James. This is the best dream ever. Getting to the end of the field Jim instructed, “This wheel tells the horse witch way to go. We need to make it go back the other way, so help me turn it around. Grab ahold and pull. That’s it Tommy, see how it’s turning.”
Tommy climbed on top Suzy and put his head out the window. Jim stopped and rolled up the flap on the back, so Tommy could look out the back window. Tommy watched to make sure everything was working fine. After about seven hours of plowing Tommy fell asleep. Suzy smiled, “You tuckered him out Jim.”
Jim replied, “I also gave him the best dream ever, and it don’t matter if he tells. Anything is possible in a dream, and no one believes them to be true.”
Suzy agreed, “That was a great idea Jim. You couldn’t have given him a better gift.”
A little over two hours later Jim was done and unhooked the plow. Then he carried Tommy to the wagon. Setting him in the back Jim explained, I’ll take the truck back, so you’ll half to be ready for everything to come back to life.”
Jim took the truck back to the hiding place, and headed back to the farm. Leaning against the barn he fell asleep.
In town Jesse pulled up to the Livery. Suzy instructed the stable boy to park the wagon and take care of Charlie and Patty. Then they walk past the Blacksmith Shop. Suzy stopped and announced, “This is where James had the plow made.”
Tommy pointed, “Look it’s the Sheriff.”
Suzy waved at Albert and smiled, as they continued down the street. Pearl asked, “What’s this place?”
Suzy Replied, “That’s the land office. That is where you go to find out things about land. Like where the property line is, or who owns the property. Let’s cross the street and go to the building with the big windows.”
Tommy insisted, “I know that one. It’s the store, and I’ve been there with my dad.”
Stopping at the door Suzy instructed, “Now we’re going to act like big people. No fighting and we take turns. You understand?”
They all answered, “Yes mam.”
Suzy said. “Good, now here is a Nickle for each of you for candy.”
Inside the store Tommy bragged, “I know how, so I’ll go first. I can show you how to do it.”
Hank waited behind the counter as Tommy stepped up and asked, “What flavors do you have sir?”
Hank point to the jars and said, “This one is root beer, here is sassafras, cinnamon, butterscotch, peppermint, spearmint, licorice, and cotton candy. There two for a Penny, so if you get one of each that would be 4¢”
Tommy answered, “That’s what I’ll have one of each.”
Hank took a small bag and put one of each in it, and put it on the counter. Tommy put up his Nickel, and Hank slipped a penny and the bag to Tommy.
Tommy turned to his sisters and said, “That’s how you do it.”
Then Pearl announced, “I’ll have five peppermint and five cotton candy’ please.”
Suzy called Tommy over, “This is Emily and she is going to get you some boots.”
Emily guessed, “You look like a size 6 or 7. Let’s see what we can find.”
Suzy was looking through the socks, and handed a pair of socks to Tommy and said, “Here put these on.” Then she put two more pair on the counter. Then it was Pearl’s turn. Then Suzy did the same for Helen. Then she picked up a pair of pants and held them up to Tommy’s back side. Looking at Margaret Suzy questioned, “What do you think Margaret?”
Margaret replied, “They look good now, but he’s growing like a weed. He’ll out grow them by the end of summer.”
Suzy put them back and got the next size up and grabbed a belt. Then set the stuff on the counter. Emily added all the stuff up and informed, “That’s $12.50 do you want to put it on your account?”
Pulling a stack of bills from her pocket Suzy laid a ten and five on the counter. Then she insisted, “No that’s Jim’s account I’ll just pay for this.”
Emily made the change, wrapped up the package, and tied it with a string. Then they went down to the dress shop. Stopping outside Suzy announced, “This is a Girl place you guys need to go do guy things. Then she took the two silver dollars she got from the store, and took Jesse’s hand. Putting the money in his hand, Suzy insisted, “This is a loan you will pay it back. There will be a crop, and you will make money. Now give your son a memory.”
Suzy and the girls went into the dress shop, and Jesse looked at Tommy and asked, “What do you think about going to the horseshoe for a slice of pie?”
Tommy replied, “That would be nice dad.”
Albert saw Jesse and Tommy go into the Horseshoe Restaurant, and thought. I wonder how that plow is working. He pulled the doors to the Blacksmith Shop closed, and went to the Livery. Getting a horse from Henry he rode out to the Wilson farm. With the field coming into view Albert couldn’t believe his eyes. The entire field had been plowed, and Jim was sound asleep next to the barn.
Albert got down from the horse and walked over to Jim. Giving Jim a kick in the foot Albert called out, “What the hell is going on here?”
Jim opened his eyes and questioned, “What time is it?”
Albert snapped back, “Not even noon yet and the entire field is plowed. What is going on here?”
Jim and Albert went in the backdoor and removed the bar locking the big barn like doors. Jim pushed one door open and swung it back against the building, as Albert did the other. Then they looked at the plow. Just one brace and it would be finished. Jim started a fire in the forge. Then pumped the bellows a few time to get it going. Albert made up the coffee pot and set it on the back of the forge.
Looking at Jim Albert confessed, “I need some customers. I like to work and now it’s going to get slow again, and I’ll have to walk around town acting like I’m keeping the peace. Just so I don’t feel lonely or bored. Henry is lucky he has the horses and the stable boy to keep him company.”
Jim mumbled, “After we finish up the plow I’m going to go get a shave.”
Albert questioned, “I’ve seen your razor next to the washbowl through your window. Why don’t you use it to shave yourself?”
Jim laughed, “You know I’ve tried that, but when I’m done I look like I was attacked by Chief straight razor. I don’t have enough blood to do that to many times.”
Albert laughed, “I’ll go with you. I need a haircut anyway.”
After they went to the barber they went home for lunch. Then back to the Blacksmith Shop. Albert undid a rope going through a pulley hooked to a beam. He lowered the hook down to the plow. Then he announced, “I bet this thing must weigh 400 pounds. We need a horse to lift this up.”
Jim informed, “I’ll go get Patty.”
Jim went next door and got Patty, as Albert hooked the plow to the rope. When Jim got back they backed the wagon in the door until it was by the plow. Jim put a harness on patty and hooked the rope to it. Then he took the rains and pulled her forewords. The rope went tight and the plow lifted off the dirt floor.
Then Albert yelled, “About another foot Jim.”
Jim pulled patty until he heard Albert yell, “Good.”
Then Albert came around and pushed the wagon under the plow. Walking to the back of the wagon he announced, “OK let it down. I’m leaving it hang out so you can roll it off the wagon. We’ll just have to tie it down.”
Jim eased Patty back and patted her saying, “Good girl. You did good Patty.”
With the rope slack Jim walked around to the back of the wagon, and helped Albert tie down the plow. Then he stepped back and looked at the plow. With a smile Jim informed, “Thanks Albert, I’ll pay you as soon as I get my money.”
Putting his hand in his pocket, Albert rubbed the gold bar and insisted, “Don’t worry about it James. It’s all taken care of. Just get enough of a crop to feed the children through the winter.”
Jim took Patty back to the livery as emotions flowed through his thoughts. He couldn’t wait until tomorrow he wanted to go plow the field now, but he had to wait. The afternoon seamed to drag on as he helped Albert clean up the shop.
Back at the Boardinghouse Jim was in a daze as Albert bragged about the plow, and teased Jim about not being able to pull it. Jim knew he could pull the plow with the truck, but couldn’t say a thing. It all just knotted up inside of him. Jim just wanted to tell someone, “Hay look at what I can do!” That was just out of the question.
Jim was quiet at dinner and went to bed early. Suzy came in and laid next to Jim. Suzy pulled Jim’s arm under her head. Then she put her head on his shoulder and whispered, “I know you Jim. The night is closing in, and you’re going crazy. I know you feel like you’re trying to do too much, but you got this Jim. You’ve put a spell across all of our hearts. Love always wins in the end.
I can’t wait to spread some love around this town tomorrow, and undo some of what that witch has done. Just remember evil can’t undo what love dose, so plow that field with love. Now sleep my sweet love.”
Jim drifted into a deep sleep and Autum came to him. They were sitting in the truck and Autum laid her head on Jims shoulder and whispered, “I’ve missed you my sweet love, but I need to tell you this. You’re at a turning point and this is important. Your very survival and well-being are dependent on it. Trickery is fine, but you can’t lie. You’ll half to tell the truth or say nothing at all, and don’t worry. The truth will never harm you, so just use your judgment. We can fix this it’s just going to take a lot of love. Remember my dear sweet one, love wins every time. Now go use it.
Now about you and what changed things. When you saved Tommy another life had to be given up. Thankfully it was an evil one. You see you traded Tommy’s life for Mr. Cooper’s life. Then win you saved the lady from choking to death. You traded that life and the life of her unborn child for two others. Everything you do changes much more than you’ll ever know, but don’t worry love always wins.”
Then Autum faded away as Jim awoke to Suzy shaking him. “Come on Jim this is the big day.”
Then Suzy slipped out the door as Jim looked out the window. It was still dark outside, but Suzy had lit the lamp for Jim. He sat up on the edge of the bed and rubbed his eyes. Then Jim walked to the washbowl and poured in some water. Then he splashed some water on his face. Dried his face, and got dressed. Then Suzy came back in and requested, “Can you help me with the box, I need to get some money for today.”
Suzy took some paper money and change. Then she grabbed a handful of Nickels. Then she asked Jim to put the box back, and went back to the kitchen.
Coming out Jim saw Victoria and Suzy in the kitchen. Suzy looked up from kneading the bread dough and announced, “Just have a seat James I’ll make you some pancakes as soon as the stove gets heated up.”
After they ate they head out to get Charlie and Patty. Walking down main street Suzy exclaimed, “I’m so excited I can’t wait to watch the kids pick out candy for the first time. I don’t know who is getting more love me or the kids.”
Jim smiled as he replied, “Love makes love, then it just flows around touching everyone next to it. By the way Autum came to me last night.”
Suzy blurted, “Me too, she told me not to lie.”
Jim mumbled, “Me too. Are you going to get Charlie and Patty well I open the blacksmith shop?”
Suzy replied, “Sure, just be careful it’s still a little dark. Do you have matches to light the lantern to see in there?”
Jim replied, “Got it covered.”
In no time the team was hitched up, and parked in the street. Jim put the bar back on the door, and headed out. The ride to the Wilson’s seemed to take forever. At last Jim mad it to the farm. He looped the wagon out into the field to unload the plow. Jesse came out and Suzy headed to the house. The Kids where still at the table eating. Margaret was doing some dishes as she said, “Have a seat Suzan.”
Suzy sat at the table and questioned, “Are you excited about today?
Like an explosion they all talked at once trying to talk over each other. Suzy insisted, “That’s enough I got it. Now let’s see if we can finish eating so we can go.”
Margaret laughed, “You asked and you got it. They have been like this since yesterday morning.”
Jim and Jesse tipped the plow out of the back of the wagon. It rolled over upside down on the ground, so Jim tied the rope on to the plow and the back of the wagon. Then he had Jesse pull the wagon forward. The rope went tight and Jesse gave the rained a whip and yelled, “Yah!” the wagon moved forward, and the plow flipped over with a thud. Pulling back on the rains Jesse called out, “Whoa.” Charlie and Patty came to a standstill, and Jim untied the rope.
Then Jesse took the wagon to the front of the house and wrapped the rains around the break handle. Walking up Jim announced, “Now I just have to wait for the guy to get here with the draft horses.”
Jesse questioned, “You sure about this James?”
James replied, “You just take the family and have a good time. I got this.”
Jim watched them load up and pull out with Helen sitting on Suzy’s lap on one side of Jesse and Margaret on the other. Tommy and Pearl waved from the back as they went out of sight. Then Jim went and got the truck. He was backing it up to the plow when he saw Suzy out the driver window. Stopping the truck Jim rolled down the window and questioned, “What’s the matter?”
Suzy replied, “Time stopped. You and I are the only ones that are not affected. The wagon was moving along then everything just stopped. Except Helen and me, but as soon as I set her down she was frozen in place. I reached out and touched Tommy and he turned and looked at me. It freaked me out and I jerked my hand away. Then he was frozen again, so time has stopped for everything unless we touch it.”
Jim thought about Suzy’s hair the day they moved the truck. Then Jim replied, “Since you’re here can you guide me to the plow?”
Suzy went to the back of the truck and guided Jim in. Jim got out and hooked up the plow and insisted, “Let’s go check the wagon.”
Walking up behind the wagon Jim could tell nothing was moving, so he went to Tommy and touched him. He turned his head and looked at Jim. Jim spoke softly “I’m in your dream Tommy.” Then pulled his hand away, and looked to Suzy informing, “Looks like your stuck here with me until I’m done. I think I’m taking Tommy with us.”
Suzy replied, “You sure?”
Jim answered, “He’ll think it’s a dream, and have the time of his life.”
Jim walked to the back of the wagon and touched Tommy again saying, “Over here Tommy.” Tommy turned his head as Jim informed, “Aren’t dreams neat how I can jump around like that. Her take my hand and we’ll plow the field.”
Jim and Suzy walked Tommy to the truck. Jim lifted Tommy up into the cab and let go and Tommy didn’t freeze. Looking to Suzy Jim informed, “The truck works too.”
Then Jim got in the truck and explained, “This is my Iron Horse and it runs on love. You can only use it in a dream when you are giving each other lots of love. Let’s see if we can give it enough love to make it go.”
Suzy grabbed ahold of Tommy and said, “I love you Tommy.”
Jim let out the clutch and stepped on the gas. The engine growled and the truck jerked a few times and they were off. The roar of the engine echoed in the cab as the truck chugged along. Tommy bounced up and down on the seat as he cried out, “It’s working James. This is the best dream ever. Getting to the end of the field Jim instructed, “This wheel tells the horse witch way to go. We need to make it go back the other way, so help me turn it around. Grab ahold and pull. That’s it Tommy, see how it’s turning.”
Tommy climbed on top Suzy and put his head out the window. Jim stopped and rolled up the flap on the back, so Tommy could look out the back window. Tommy watched to make sure everything was working fine. After about seven hours of plowing Tommy fell asleep. Suzy smiled, “You tuckered him out Jim.”
Jim replied, “I also gave him the best dream ever, and it don’t matter if he tells. Anything is possible in a dream, and no one believes them to be true.”
Suzy agreed, “That was a great idea Jim. You couldn’t have given him a better gift.”
A little over two hours later Jim was done and unhooked the plow. Then he carried Tommy to the wagon. Setting him in the back Jim explained, I’ll take the truck back, so you’ll half to be ready for everything to come back to life.”
Jim took the truck back to the hiding place, and headed back to the farm. Leaning against the barn he fell asleep.
In town Jesse pulled up to the Livery. Suzy instructed the stable boy to park the wagon and take care of Charlie and Patty. Then they walk past the Blacksmith Shop. Suzy stopped and announced, “This is where James had the plow made.”
Tommy pointed, “Look it’s the Sheriff.”
Suzy waved at Albert and smiled, as they continued down the street. Pearl asked, “What’s this place?”
Suzy Replied, “That’s the land office. That is where you go to find out things about land. Like where the property line is, or who owns the property. Let’s cross the street and go to the building with the big windows.”
Tommy insisted, “I know that one. It’s the store, and I’ve been there with my dad.”
Stopping at the door Suzy instructed, “Now we’re going to act like big people. No fighting and we take turns. You understand?”
They all answered, “Yes mam.”
Suzy said. “Good, now here is a Nickle for each of you for candy.”
Inside the store Tommy bragged, “I know how, so I’ll go first. I can show you how to do it.”
Hank waited behind the counter as Tommy stepped up and asked, “What flavors do you have sir?”
Hank point to the jars and said, “This one is root beer, here is sassafras, cinnamon, butterscotch, peppermint, spearmint, licorice, and cotton candy. There two for a Penny, so if you get one of each that would be 4¢”
Tommy answered, “That’s what I’ll have one of each.”
Hank took a small bag and put one of each in it, and put it on the counter. Tommy put up his Nickel, and Hank slipped a penny and the bag to Tommy.
Tommy turned to his sisters and said, “That’s how you do it.”
Then Pearl announced, “I’ll have five peppermint and five cotton candy’ please.”
Suzy called Tommy over, “This is Emily and she is going to get you some boots.”
Emily guessed, “You look like a size 6 or 7. Let’s see what we can find.”
Suzy was looking through the socks, and handed a pair of socks to Tommy and said, “Here put these on.” Then she put two more pair on the counter. Then it was Pearl’s turn. Then Suzy did the same for Helen. Then she picked up a pair of pants and held them up to Tommy’s back side. Looking at Margaret Suzy questioned, “What do you think Margaret?”
Margaret replied, “They look good now, but he’s growing like a weed. He’ll out grow them by the end of summer.”
Suzy put them back and got the next size up and grabbed a belt. Then set the stuff on the counter. Emily added all the stuff up and informed, “That’s $12.50 do you want to put it on your account?”
Pulling a stack of bills from her pocket Suzy laid a ten and five on the counter. Then she insisted, “No that’s Jim’s account I’ll just pay for this.”
Emily made the change, wrapped up the package, and tied it with a string. Then they went down to the dress shop. Stopping outside Suzy announced, “This is a Girl place you guys need to go do guy things. Then she took the two silver dollars she got from the store, and took Jesse’s hand. Putting the money in his hand, Suzy insisted, “This is a loan you will pay it back. There will be a crop, and you will make money. Now give your son a memory.”
Suzy and the girls went into the dress shop, and Jesse looked at Tommy and asked, “What do you think about going to the horseshoe for a slice of pie?”
Tommy replied, “That would be nice dad.”
Albert saw Jesse and Tommy go into the Horseshoe Restaurant, and thought. I wonder how that plow is working. He pulled the doors to the Blacksmith Shop closed, and went to the Livery. Getting a horse from Henry he rode out to the Wilson farm. With the field coming into view Albert couldn’t believe his eyes. The entire field had been plowed, and Jim was sound asleep next to the barn.
Albert got down from the horse and walked over to Jim. Giving Jim a kick in the foot Albert called out, “What the hell is going on here?”
Jim opened his eyes and questioned, “What time is it?”
Albert snapped back, “Not even noon yet and the entire field is plowed. What is going on here?”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Jim sat up and questioned, “What’s the matter do you think this is evil or something?”
Albert was put back, “Well no, but this is not possible.”
Jim yawned, “I did it in a dream. If you don’t believe me ask Tommy, he was there.”
Albert insisted, “Jim tell me the truth? Are you an angel? I remember we talked about good and evil and fallen angels. I don’t think this is evil, so how did you do it.”
Jim rubbed his eyes and complained, “I told you the truth one time and you didn’t believe me. I’m not going to lie to you. I did it in Tommy’s dream. That is the truth and I’m not saying anymore. You wouldn’t believe me anyway. Now I’m exhausted from plowing the field. Please let me get some rest.”
Then Jim laid back and closed his eyes. Albert stormed off and rode back to town. That’s when he saw Suzy and the Wilson family coming from the Restaurant. He called Tommy over and questioned, “How did James plow the field?”
Tommy replied, “We did it in my dream with James’s Iron Horse. It has a soft bouncy seat and windows to look out. There’s a wheel you turn to tell it where to go. It runs on love and roars when it goes. If you give Jim a lot of love he might let you ride it too.
Albert questioned, “Where dose James keep this Iron Horse?”
Tommy insisted, “I told you. It lives in dreams.”
Albert turned and walked away thinking, He’s brainwashed Tommy.
Just then Henry came walking by, “I missed you at supper.”
Albert whined, “Me too.” Then he walked off in a daze.
Tommy came back across the street and Suzy questioned, “What did Albert want Tommy?”
Tommy explained, “He wanted to know about my dream, and where James keeps the Iron Horse.”
Suzy gasped as Jessy questioned, “What Iron Horse?”
Tommy insisted, “The one me and James plowed the field with.”
Jesse inquired, “When was this Tommy?”
Tommy replied, “In my dream on the way to town.”
Jesse laughed and announced, “Only a little boy would come up with something like that.”
They all headed back down the street to the Boardinghouse to see where Jim and Suzy lived.
Jesse and Margaret were sitting on the bench, and the kids where checking out the bath house. That’s when it happened. Everything stopped and Suzy screamed, “Oh crap! What now!”
She walked through the house there was Victoria with a knife halfway through a loaf of bread, and Benjamin at the table reading. She could see the fire in the fire box of the stove, and it was frozen in place. Not a flame was moving. Not even a flicker from one flame. She walked back outside, and sat in Victoria’s chair. After about ten minutes Suzy complained, “Great how long is this going to last? I wonder if we messed up the time line, and got stuck in a time passage.”
Then she heard the truck off in the distance. Walking out to the street sure enough there was Jim coming with the truck. Jim stopped the truck and set the break. Swinging the door open and climbing down complaining, “We have a problem!”
Suzy stepped next to Jim and questioned, “What now?”
Jim replied, “Albert knows! He showed up at the farm well I was sleeping. Kicked me and asked me what the hell was going on. He wanted to know how I plowed forty acres in four hours. I couldn’t lie, so I told him I did it in Tommy’s dream. Then I told him I told the truth one time and he didn’t believe me. Then he left, and I freaked out. I walked halfway to the truck before I remembered about Daisy. By then it was too late to turn back.”
Suzy explained, “Albert talked to Tommy and only God knows what he told him.”
Jim replied, “You know what Tommy told him that little guy worked his heart out helping me turn that steering wheel. There is no power steering on that old truck. It even wears me out. Heck he fell asleep before we got done. I carried him to the wagon. I know he thought it happened in a dream.”
Suzy demanded, “We half to tell him. If we don’t he could blow this thing wide open. It’s that or we pack everything up and move right now. You got any ideas?
Jim said, “I say we trick him into thinking he’s in a dream. We stand in front of him and touch him. Then tell him welcome to our dream. Then jerk our hand away trade places, and do it again. Play a mind game with him and find out what he knows.”
Suzy looked at Jim wide eyed and exclaimed, “You’re one mean son of a bitch Jim. I like it. Let’s go see if we can find him.”
They got in the truck and drove down to the blacksmith shop. On the way Jim explained, “I thought the right gas tank would be about empty, but the gage was still on full. I thought it might not be working, so I got a stick. Then opened the cap, and I could see the gas right at the top. Then I thought I have the wires crossed, so I checked the other side. It was full to the top too. I guess it don’t use gas the same in this time passage.”
Jim got out of the truck, and checked the blacksmith shop with Suzy right behind him. Albert was not there. Jim announced, “Next door at Henry’s”
Walking out the door Suzy saw Albert in the Horseshoe across the street. Grabbing Jim’s arm she pointed and exclaimed, “Look Jim.”
They went across the street to the Horseshoe. Suzy took a seat across from Albert, and Jim stood behind him. Suzy said, “OK,” and Jim touched Albert. Albert was startled as Suzy questioned, “Is that a good stake?”
Then Jim jerked his hand away and Suzy announced, “Swap.”
Jim took a seat across from Albert and Suzy touched him. Jim announced, “Welcome to Tommy’s dream Albert.”
Albert spit the bite of stake out of his mouth. Suzy jerked her hand away and busted up laughing. Fighting to keep a straight face Suzy announced, “My turn”
Then they swapped again. Suzy took the peace of stake Albert spit out and put it on her shirt. Then Jim touched Albert again as Suzy complained, “Now look what you did?”
Then Jim jerked his hand away and said, “Let me talk to him for a little while this time.”
They swapped and Suzy touched Albert as Jim questioned, “What do you think about this dream”
Albert tossed his fork to the table and demanded, “How are you doing this?”
Jim went on, “That’s the power of time baby. I always wanted to say that. There was an angel from our time that would always say baby at the end of whatever she said. I guess it’s because she saw us all as babies. We’re not smart enough to know what’s going on down here. What do you think Albert? Did Tommy tell you about the Iron Horse?”
Albert’s eyes bulged as he declared, “Tommy told me about the dream, but I don’t know what is going on here. No one else is moving at all just us. Did you cast a spell on me or something?”
Jim replied, “No, that would be Edna that dose that. I control time. You want to go for a ride? I have the iron horse in front of the Blacksmith Shop.”
Albert looked out the window as Suzy took her hand away. Suzy insisted, “I’m not sure that’s a good idea Jim”
Jim replied, “Look this is the Sheriff. If we’re going to get our grandmother Edna we need his help. After all he is the one that would have us hanged if we killed her. I’ve talked to him a lot, and he wants to stop her to. I just think we can get him on our side if we just tell the truth. That’s what Autum told me in my dream.”
Suzy whined, “Me too, OK do it.”
Suzy slipped her hand under Albert’s muscular arm and insisted, “Let’s go Albert time for the ride of your life.”
Albert shuddered, “I don’t think I want to get in that thing.”
Jim insisted, “Just come out and look at it. Can we get you to do that?”
Standing from the chair Albert replied, “I just don’t want to get to close to it.”
Slowly they went out the door. Once outside the Crow came down and landed on Albert’s head. Flashes of Edna went through his head. He saw Edna stab the saloon girl in the eye. Then he saw her casting spells, and knifes flying through the air into Clara’s eye socket then Margaret’s eye socket. Then he saw her casting spells that went through time for generations of family’s. He saw animal attacks, wagons driving off of cliffs, cars driving into trees stabbing branches through bodies, and bees stinging people to death. Albert fell to the ground and had a Seizure.
Suzy jumped back from Albert and explained, “We have to do something! He’s having a seizure. It can cause changes in his behavior, movements or feelings, and even in levels of consciousness.”
Suzy put out her hand and went, “Caw.” Her crow came down and landed on her arm. Suzy looked at the Crow and said, “Help him,” the Crow jumped down on Albert’s chest and cawed. Suzy kneeled next to Albert and touched him. The Crow cawed a few times and flew up on the truck. Albert went limp and his eyes slowly opened. Albert mumbled, “I saw everything about Edna. She’s a Witch!”
Albert sat up and announced, “I could have her hung for killing the Saloon Gal.”
Jim mumbled, “That hasn’t happened yet in this time passage Albert. I’m sorry Albert but I’m going to have to lay it all on the line. When you asked me about the smokeless bullets I told you I was a time traveler. That was the truth; it was also the truth that they were like that when I got them. You see all my rounds have smokeless powder in them. That is how their made in our time. The Crow is our guide in this time; we came here to stop the Witch. Her spells are still killing people a hundred and fifty years from now. We have to stop her, but this Witch is very powerful and no mortal man can stop her. We need your help Albert.”
Suzy requested, “Albert can I get you to come to the Iron Horse. You can only see us if we touch you or your touching the Iron horse.”
Albert looked deep into Suzy’s eyes and questioned, “Are you really Time Travelers, and not Demons?”
Suzy replied, “Worry not Albert we’re Time Travelers.”
Getting to his feet Albert walked to the truck, and sat on the running board. Suzy sat next to him and asked, “What did the Crow show you?”
Albert replied, “I think it showed me all the people the Witch killed. I think I saw you as a little girl with an old man and your mother with an iron bar stuck in her head.”
Suzy grabbed Albert and squeezed him tight as a tear slipped down her face. Then she whispered, “Sorry you had to see that Albert.”
Squeezing Suzy back Albert replied, “Sorry you had to live that you sweet thing.”
Albert took a deep breath and confessed, “Time to man up. I’m ready, what do we have to do?”
Suzy got up and took Albert’s right hand then pulled him up, and opened the truck door. Then she climbed up in pulling Albert in next to her saying, “Grab that door and pull it shut.”
Jim climbed in the driver side and put the truck in gear. Then looking at Albert he exclaimed, “Are you ready to take a ride in Tommy’s Iron Horse?”
Then he let out the clutch and made a U-turn. Jim shifted a few times as the truck bounced along. They were passing the swimming hole in no time. Suzy got a big smile and yelled, “Thank you grandpa, the truck did take me places I never dreamed of.”
Jim looked over at Albert and explained, “This truck came from her grandfather.”
Albert questioned, “Where are we going?”
Jim replied, “Nowhere, we’re just taking you for a ride.”
Suzy reached over and rolled down the window, “Enjoy some air Albert. Stick your head out. Tommy did, and he loved it. We tuckered the poor boy out plowing the field. What time dose your watch say James?”
Jim pulled the watch from his pocket. “Looks like two in the morning.”
Suzy explained, “You see the day is over for us and it’s just after noon for you. Jim came to a stop and questioned, “Albert, have you ever thought about something like this in your wildest dreams. Tommy has, but he thinks this is just a dream. You do know this is reality. Maybe you better pinch yourself to make sure.”
Suzy insisted, “I’ll do it.” Then she pinched Albert and questioned, “You feel that.”
Albert Joked, “I think a fly landed on me.”
Jim turned the truck around and headed back to town, as he instructed, “We’ll take you back to the Horseshoe and have you sit at the table. You’ll come back to your time right where you left off. Your food will be just as hot or cold as it was. No one will know you were even gone. I’ll go back to the farm and Suzy will go back to the Boardinghouse. Then I’ll see you at dinner. We will need to get together to come up with a plan on how to stop the Witch. Will you work with us on that?”
Albert insisted, “I took an oath to do that. I have no chose but to stop this.”
Suzy walked Albert back to the table, and said, “See you later.”
At the truck Jim questioned, “You want me to give you a ride back to the Boardinghouse?”
Suzy replied, “No, I’ll walk. It will take you way over an hour to take the truck back.”
Then Jim drove the truck back to its hiding place, and walked to the farm.
Albert awoke with his half eaten stake in front of him. It was like nothing had happened. People were sitting around talking and eating. Rebecca was sitting in her spot looking out the window. Albert took a bit of his stake and thought, How dose James and Suzan live in two worlds? It’s confusing and I only did it once.
Looking over at Rebecca Albert called out, “Hay Rebecca come over here.”
Rebecca came over and had a seat across from Albert asking, “What do you need?”
How much is it to run an ad in the paper?”
Rebecca replied, “It’s a penny a word why?”
Albert insisted, “I want to run an ad. I want it to say. Wanted.”
Rebecca butted in, “Waite let me get my pad.”
Returning Rebecca requested, “Go ahead Albert.”
Albert continued, “Wanted one good milk cow. Contact Sheriff Blocker.”
Rebecca choked on her coffee, “Albert! What are you going to do with a milk cow?”
Albert replied, “I was thinking about keeping it out at the Wilson farm. Kids need milk don’t they?”
Rebecca teased, “Have James and Suzan been talking to you or something?”
Albert replied, “What? Can’t I do something kind for someone on my own? I do have a heart you know. Now put that in your paper.”
Rebecca laughed, “I just might, and forget to put your name to it.”
Albert was put back, “Well no, but this is not possible.”
Jim yawned, “I did it in a dream. If you don’t believe me ask Tommy, he was there.”
Albert insisted, “Jim tell me the truth? Are you an angel? I remember we talked about good and evil and fallen angels. I don’t think this is evil, so how did you do it.”
Jim rubbed his eyes and complained, “I told you the truth one time and you didn’t believe me. I’m not going to lie to you. I did it in Tommy’s dream. That is the truth and I’m not saying anymore. You wouldn’t believe me anyway. Now I’m exhausted from plowing the field. Please let me get some rest.”
Then Jim laid back and closed his eyes. Albert stormed off and rode back to town. That’s when he saw Suzy and the Wilson family coming from the Restaurant. He called Tommy over and questioned, “How did James plow the field?”
Tommy replied, “We did it in my dream with James’s Iron Horse. It has a soft bouncy seat and windows to look out. There’s a wheel you turn to tell it where to go. It runs on love and roars when it goes. If you give Jim a lot of love he might let you ride it too.
Albert questioned, “Where dose James keep this Iron Horse?”
Tommy insisted, “I told you. It lives in dreams.”
Albert turned and walked away thinking, He’s brainwashed Tommy.
Just then Henry came walking by, “I missed you at supper.”
Albert whined, “Me too.” Then he walked off in a daze.
Tommy came back across the street and Suzy questioned, “What did Albert want Tommy?”
Tommy explained, “He wanted to know about my dream, and where James keeps the Iron Horse.”
Suzy gasped as Jessy questioned, “What Iron Horse?”
Tommy insisted, “The one me and James plowed the field with.”
Jesse inquired, “When was this Tommy?”
Tommy replied, “In my dream on the way to town.”
Jesse laughed and announced, “Only a little boy would come up with something like that.”
They all headed back down the street to the Boardinghouse to see where Jim and Suzy lived.
Jesse and Margaret were sitting on the bench, and the kids where checking out the bath house. That’s when it happened. Everything stopped and Suzy screamed, “Oh crap! What now!”
She walked through the house there was Victoria with a knife halfway through a loaf of bread, and Benjamin at the table reading. She could see the fire in the fire box of the stove, and it was frozen in place. Not a flame was moving. Not even a flicker from one flame. She walked back outside, and sat in Victoria’s chair. After about ten minutes Suzy complained, “Great how long is this going to last? I wonder if we messed up the time line, and got stuck in a time passage.”
Then she heard the truck off in the distance. Walking out to the street sure enough there was Jim coming with the truck. Jim stopped the truck and set the break. Swinging the door open and climbing down complaining, “We have a problem!”
Suzy stepped next to Jim and questioned, “What now?”
Jim replied, “Albert knows! He showed up at the farm well I was sleeping. Kicked me and asked me what the hell was going on. He wanted to know how I plowed forty acres in four hours. I couldn’t lie, so I told him I did it in Tommy’s dream. Then I told him I told the truth one time and he didn’t believe me. Then he left, and I freaked out. I walked halfway to the truck before I remembered about Daisy. By then it was too late to turn back.”
Suzy explained, “Albert talked to Tommy and only God knows what he told him.”
Jim replied, “You know what Tommy told him that little guy worked his heart out helping me turn that steering wheel. There is no power steering on that old truck. It even wears me out. Heck he fell asleep before we got done. I carried him to the wagon. I know he thought it happened in a dream.”
Suzy demanded, “We half to tell him. If we don’t he could blow this thing wide open. It’s that or we pack everything up and move right now. You got any ideas?
Jim said, “I say we trick him into thinking he’s in a dream. We stand in front of him and touch him. Then tell him welcome to our dream. Then jerk our hand away trade places, and do it again. Play a mind game with him and find out what he knows.”
Suzy looked at Jim wide eyed and exclaimed, “You’re one mean son of a bitch Jim. I like it. Let’s go see if we can find him.”
They got in the truck and drove down to the blacksmith shop. On the way Jim explained, “I thought the right gas tank would be about empty, but the gage was still on full. I thought it might not be working, so I got a stick. Then opened the cap, and I could see the gas right at the top. Then I thought I have the wires crossed, so I checked the other side. It was full to the top too. I guess it don’t use gas the same in this time passage.”
Jim got out of the truck, and checked the blacksmith shop with Suzy right behind him. Albert was not there. Jim announced, “Next door at Henry’s”
Walking out the door Suzy saw Albert in the Horseshoe across the street. Grabbing Jim’s arm she pointed and exclaimed, “Look Jim.”
They went across the street to the Horseshoe. Suzy took a seat across from Albert, and Jim stood behind him. Suzy said, “OK,” and Jim touched Albert. Albert was startled as Suzy questioned, “Is that a good stake?”
Then Jim jerked his hand away and Suzy announced, “Swap.”
Jim took a seat across from Albert and Suzy touched him. Jim announced, “Welcome to Tommy’s dream Albert.”
Albert spit the bite of stake out of his mouth. Suzy jerked her hand away and busted up laughing. Fighting to keep a straight face Suzy announced, “My turn”
Then they swapped again. Suzy took the peace of stake Albert spit out and put it on her shirt. Then Jim touched Albert again as Suzy complained, “Now look what you did?”
Then Jim jerked his hand away and said, “Let me talk to him for a little while this time.”
They swapped and Suzy touched Albert as Jim questioned, “What do you think about this dream”
Albert tossed his fork to the table and demanded, “How are you doing this?”
Jim went on, “That’s the power of time baby. I always wanted to say that. There was an angel from our time that would always say baby at the end of whatever she said. I guess it’s because she saw us all as babies. We’re not smart enough to know what’s going on down here. What do you think Albert? Did Tommy tell you about the Iron Horse?”
Albert’s eyes bulged as he declared, “Tommy told me about the dream, but I don’t know what is going on here. No one else is moving at all just us. Did you cast a spell on me or something?”
Jim replied, “No, that would be Edna that dose that. I control time. You want to go for a ride? I have the iron horse in front of the Blacksmith Shop.”
Albert looked out the window as Suzy took her hand away. Suzy insisted, “I’m not sure that’s a good idea Jim”
Jim replied, “Look this is the Sheriff. If we’re going to get our grandmother Edna we need his help. After all he is the one that would have us hanged if we killed her. I’ve talked to him a lot, and he wants to stop her to. I just think we can get him on our side if we just tell the truth. That’s what Autum told me in my dream.”
Suzy whined, “Me too, OK do it.”
Suzy slipped her hand under Albert’s muscular arm and insisted, “Let’s go Albert time for the ride of your life.”
Albert shuddered, “I don’t think I want to get in that thing.”
Jim insisted, “Just come out and look at it. Can we get you to do that?”
Standing from the chair Albert replied, “I just don’t want to get to close to it.”
Slowly they went out the door. Once outside the Crow came down and landed on Albert’s head. Flashes of Edna went through his head. He saw Edna stab the saloon girl in the eye. Then he saw her casting spells, and knifes flying through the air into Clara’s eye socket then Margaret’s eye socket. Then he saw her casting spells that went through time for generations of family’s. He saw animal attacks, wagons driving off of cliffs, cars driving into trees stabbing branches through bodies, and bees stinging people to death. Albert fell to the ground and had a Seizure.
Suzy jumped back from Albert and explained, “We have to do something! He’s having a seizure. It can cause changes in his behavior, movements or feelings, and even in levels of consciousness.”
Suzy put out her hand and went, “Caw.” Her crow came down and landed on her arm. Suzy looked at the Crow and said, “Help him,” the Crow jumped down on Albert’s chest and cawed. Suzy kneeled next to Albert and touched him. The Crow cawed a few times and flew up on the truck. Albert went limp and his eyes slowly opened. Albert mumbled, “I saw everything about Edna. She’s a Witch!”
Albert sat up and announced, “I could have her hung for killing the Saloon Gal.”
Jim mumbled, “That hasn’t happened yet in this time passage Albert. I’m sorry Albert but I’m going to have to lay it all on the line. When you asked me about the smokeless bullets I told you I was a time traveler. That was the truth; it was also the truth that they were like that when I got them. You see all my rounds have smokeless powder in them. That is how their made in our time. The Crow is our guide in this time; we came here to stop the Witch. Her spells are still killing people a hundred and fifty years from now. We have to stop her, but this Witch is very powerful and no mortal man can stop her. We need your help Albert.”
Suzy requested, “Albert can I get you to come to the Iron Horse. You can only see us if we touch you or your touching the Iron horse.”
Albert looked deep into Suzy’s eyes and questioned, “Are you really Time Travelers, and not Demons?”
Suzy replied, “Worry not Albert we’re Time Travelers.”
Getting to his feet Albert walked to the truck, and sat on the running board. Suzy sat next to him and asked, “What did the Crow show you?”
Albert replied, “I think it showed me all the people the Witch killed. I think I saw you as a little girl with an old man and your mother with an iron bar stuck in her head.”
Suzy grabbed Albert and squeezed him tight as a tear slipped down her face. Then she whispered, “Sorry you had to see that Albert.”
Squeezing Suzy back Albert replied, “Sorry you had to live that you sweet thing.”
Albert took a deep breath and confessed, “Time to man up. I’m ready, what do we have to do?”
Suzy got up and took Albert’s right hand then pulled him up, and opened the truck door. Then she climbed up in pulling Albert in next to her saying, “Grab that door and pull it shut.”
Jim climbed in the driver side and put the truck in gear. Then looking at Albert he exclaimed, “Are you ready to take a ride in Tommy’s Iron Horse?”
Then he let out the clutch and made a U-turn. Jim shifted a few times as the truck bounced along. They were passing the swimming hole in no time. Suzy got a big smile and yelled, “Thank you grandpa, the truck did take me places I never dreamed of.”
Jim looked over at Albert and explained, “This truck came from her grandfather.”
Albert questioned, “Where are we going?”
Jim replied, “Nowhere, we’re just taking you for a ride.”
Suzy reached over and rolled down the window, “Enjoy some air Albert. Stick your head out. Tommy did, and he loved it. We tuckered the poor boy out plowing the field. What time dose your watch say James?”
Jim pulled the watch from his pocket. “Looks like two in the morning.”
Suzy explained, “You see the day is over for us and it’s just after noon for you. Jim came to a stop and questioned, “Albert, have you ever thought about something like this in your wildest dreams. Tommy has, but he thinks this is just a dream. You do know this is reality. Maybe you better pinch yourself to make sure.”
Suzy insisted, “I’ll do it.” Then she pinched Albert and questioned, “You feel that.”
Albert Joked, “I think a fly landed on me.”
Jim turned the truck around and headed back to town, as he instructed, “We’ll take you back to the Horseshoe and have you sit at the table. You’ll come back to your time right where you left off. Your food will be just as hot or cold as it was. No one will know you were even gone. I’ll go back to the farm and Suzy will go back to the Boardinghouse. Then I’ll see you at dinner. We will need to get together to come up with a plan on how to stop the Witch. Will you work with us on that?”
Albert insisted, “I took an oath to do that. I have no chose but to stop this.”
Suzy walked Albert back to the table, and said, “See you later.”
At the truck Jim questioned, “You want me to give you a ride back to the Boardinghouse?”
Suzy replied, “No, I’ll walk. It will take you way over an hour to take the truck back.”
Then Jim drove the truck back to its hiding place, and walked to the farm.
Albert awoke with his half eaten stake in front of him. It was like nothing had happened. People were sitting around talking and eating. Rebecca was sitting in her spot looking out the window. Albert took a bit of his stake and thought, How dose James and Suzan live in two worlds? It’s confusing and I only did it once.
Looking over at Rebecca Albert called out, “Hay Rebecca come over here.”
Rebecca came over and had a seat across from Albert asking, “What do you need?”
How much is it to run an ad in the paper?”
Rebecca replied, “It’s a penny a word why?”
Albert insisted, “I want to run an ad. I want it to say. Wanted.”
Rebecca butted in, “Waite let me get my pad.”
Returning Rebecca requested, “Go ahead Albert.”
Albert continued, “Wanted one good milk cow. Contact Sheriff Blocker.”
Rebecca choked on her coffee, “Albert! What are you going to do with a milk cow?”
Albert replied, “I was thinking about keeping it out at the Wilson farm. Kids need milk don’t they?”
Rebecca teased, “Have James and Suzan been talking to you or something?”
Albert replied, “What? Can’t I do something kind for someone on my own? I do have a heart you know. Now put that in your paper.”
Rebecca laughed, “I just might, and forget to put your name to it.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Albert mumbled as Rebecca walked away, “You would too.”
Just then the south bound stage from Spokane pulled up out front, and people were getting out. Rebecca went out and gave Clyde an envelope and informed, “It’s for the paper.”
Clyde pulled out the mail bag and tossed it to Rebecca requesting, “Could you take the mail bag to Hank, and see if he has one going south?”
Rebecca took the mail bag and headed down the street as Clyde called out, “Thanks Rebecca.”
At the store Rebecca yelled coming in the door, “Emily the mails here.”
Emily reached under the counter and pulled out a mail bag and insisted, “Take this one to Clyde.”
They exchanged bags and Emily called Hank. Rebecca took the bag to Clyde who was talking to Albert now. Rebecca stood behind Albert and listened, “Next Tuesday you need to have James in Lambert. Some big shots from Wells Fargo are coming in to give him the reward personally.”
Handing Clyde the mail bag Rebecca requested, “Could you ask Tom if I can cover the story. James is from our town and I did break the story.”
Taking the bag Clyde winked and said, “Sure, anything for a pretty lady.”
Albert walked across the street to the blacksmith shop. He sat in his chair and watched out the door as he thought, I know how a Stagecoach works, and how far you can go with how many horses. I know how every piece of iron is made and how it works. I know all the different uses for the rigging. I could use the same rigging to pull a plow, a log, or a stump. But I know nothing about the Iron Horse. I have to find out what it can do so we can use it. Damn it James! Bet you’re taking a nap right now. I wonder how long it took to plow that field with that Iron Horse.
Albert shook his head and got up. Too much was happening to fast. He thought about Jim, Damn it would have been better if you lied to me. When you told me the bullets were that way when you got them. I had thought you lied, but you were telling me the truth the whole time. I thought you were pulling my lag when you told me you were a Time Traveler. But you fooled me with the truth. Who does that? Benjamin you were right James is smart, and Edna is a Witch. What you didn’t know was that a Crow can be good or evil just like people.
Albert had his own ideas, but it would take some doing. Walking by the General Store Albert went in and yelled, “Hank I want the old Feed and Seed!”
Hank came from the back room and Replied, “The roof leaks. It needs to be torn down. What the hell do you want that old thing for?”
Albert answered, “I’m thinking of building a Jail there.”
Hank laughed, “We’ve been over this. The city can’t afford that.”
Albert replied, “I know that, but times will change. Then when the city has the money I’ll sale it to them. But if I build it I wouldn’t have to hall someone to Lambert in a snow storm in the dead of winter.”
Hank insisted, “I don’t think it’s a good idea, but I was thinking five hundred for it. Since it’s you I’d let it go for four. Where you getting that kind of money? You trade for most of your work.”
Albert replied, “I know a sweet little lady that likes my arm.”
Then Albert turned and said, “See you at home Emily.”
Then he went out the door and looked up and down the street. He saw Suzy walking with the Wilson’s back from the Boardinghouse.
At the farm Jim was in a deep sleep when Autum came to him. Listen closely my dear love. I’m so happy you’ve learned love is the key to life. Don’t stop giving it. It will give you power. You need to learn to use the power I have given you. Use it and learn what it can do. It’s before your time but after their time, so no one there can stop it. You and Suzy control it, and your power comes from it. Sorry you have to learn this yourself. This is my gift to you my love, as the Crow is Clara’s to Suzy. Have Suzy learn to use it. Things have changed, the plan Suzy had won’t work now. You need to stop Edna. She already knows you’re from the future. Her birds have told her. Then Autum faded away.
Back in town Suzy was taking the Wilson’s through all the shops, and Albert was heading back to the Boardinghouse. Walking up on the porch he saw Victoria sitting in her chair. He pulled up Jim’s chair and questioned, “Do you think the Whites have money?”
Victoria replied, “I know their rich. I could smell the money the day they got here. I talk to Suzan every morning before anyone is up, and outside when she feed’s her bird. Suzan comes from a rich family and has money, but not James. James was a pour dirt farmer. Suzan’s father disapproved of her marriage to James, so her mother gave her the inheritance. Witch to my understanding is enough to last the rest of her life if she’s not foolish. James on the other hand sold the farm and has a little money, but refuses to use any of Suzan’s money. He doesn’t care how she spends it, and he’s open to letting her do her own thing. That right there is the dream man for any gal. Why do you ask Albert?”
Albert revealed, “James gets his reward next week, and has already ran up a bill with Hank. I was just wondering how they were with money management.”
Victoria replied, “I wouldn’t worry about it Albert. They will do just fine.”
Just then Emily walked up on the porch announcing, “James and Benjamin got mail. James got two cards and a letter, and Benjamin got a letter from New York.”
Going inside Emily put the mail on the end of the table, and went to her room.
Then Henry came up on the porch. Seeing Albert he informed, “I stopped at the Store for some matches, and Hank said you were thinking of buying the old Feed and Seed. What do you want that for?”
As Rebecca came up Albert replied, “I have an idea.”
Rebecca mentioned in passing, “Your ad for the cow should be in Thursdays Paper Albert.”
Henry questioned, “What are you going to do with a cow.”
Albert replied, “James and Suzan aren’t the only ones with a heart. I might want to spread some love around.”
Henry insisted, “What are you thinking Albert? I work right next to you, and I don’t see anyone knocking your door down for work. Where do you think you’re getting all this money to buy a cow and the Feed and Seed?”
Albert insisted, “I have an idea for that too.”
Victoria came out and announced, “Come on in guys. It looks like James and Suzan are going to be late. Dinner is on the table.”
At the farm Jesse pulled up to the house looking at the field he blurted, “What the hell! That’s not possible!”
He parked the wagon and walked to the edge of the field. Suzy helped Margaret carry their purchases in the house. Where Margaret gave Suzy a big hug and whispered in her ear, “I love you! If you ever need anything I’m on it like wood on a fire.”
Outside Jim walked up to Jesse and questioned, “What do you think?”
Jesse replied, “If I didn’t see it I wouldn’t believe it. You know Tommy told us a wild story about plowing it with you and using an Iron Horse.”
Jim socked Jesse in the shoulder and revealed, “Kids you’ve got to love them. I’ll get our team to you tomorrow, so you can start running the harrow over it.”
Jesse insisted, “I can’t do that in a day like you.”
Jim revealed, “You don’t have ten draft horses, and four guys to help you. Did you see them leaving on your way in?”
Jesse replied, “Give me about three days. I think I can have it done by then if it doesn’t rain.”
Jim looked over and saw Suzy was ready to go and informed, “Suzan is ready to go. I’ll get the horses out to you tomorrow.”
They stopped at the Livery and paid the stable boy to put Patty and Charlie away then walked home. They walked up on the porch to find Henry enjoying his pipe. Looking up Henry announced, “The stew is on the back of the stove. Be careful around Albert he’s acting strange. Last time I saw him mixed up like this was when his wife died. I hope he gets over it soon.”
Jim spoke softly, “I think he just needs some time. He’s been busy lately first building the grappling hook. Then the plow for me, and now he has nothing to do. I’ll see if I can find something to keep him busy to make him feel better.”
Then they went in and dished up a bowl of stew and went to the table. Benjamin was sitting by the lamp reading a letter and informed, “The mail on the end of the table is for you James.”
Jim was getting cards and letters from people he didn’t even know. Jim looked at Suzy and she shrugged her shoulders. Setting down his bowl Jim retrieved the mail. Looking at the first card he read, “I just want to thank you so much for having the courage to stop Jack Callen. He took my brother’s life on his way home. June Whitfield.”
Jim slid the card across the table to Suzy. Then picked up the next card it read, “I’m so proud of your bravery to remove that peace of … It’s an honor to have you among us. It’s people like you that give us all hope. Thank you John Husking.”
Then Jim slid the card to Suzy and opened the letter.
Carl Woods wrote, “I just wanted to thank you so much for catching Jack Callen. I was on the stage to Boise when he robbed it. He shot the driver and made all the passengers get out. Then he made us strip down to nothing. I felt so bad for my sweet Alanine, because the other two passengers where men. He went through our close and took what he wanted. Then he piled our close ten feet away from us.
Then he dumped out all our bags and took what he wanted. After taking all our Jewelry, money, and whatever else he wanted. He rode off with my wife, and had his way with her. Then he just dumped her out on the road in her nothingness.
I would consider it an honor if you would join me for the hanging.
Thank you Carl”
Jim threw the letter on the table and growled, “I should have killed the bastard!”
Then he stomped off to his room and laid on the bed. Suzy picked up the letter and read it. Then she exclaimed, “Oh my God!”
Benjamin looked up from his letter saying, “My dad always writes four or five pages on both sides. What’s the matter?”
Suzy handed the letter to Benjamin. Looking it over Benjamin commented, “Thank God their hanging the bastard. That’s sick, and that poor guy has to live knowing that. James did a good thing.”
Suzy picked up the bowls and put them in the kitchen. Then went to her room, and laid next to Jim. Jim whispered, “I’m not reading any more of them. If I get mail just throw it away. I can’t read stuff like that.”
Suzy insisted, “I’m sorry Jim. I was afraid something like this would happen. I warned you about being famous.”
Jim replied, “I know. Autum came to me today. She told me she gave us power and we should learn to use it. She said it’s before your time but after their time. I didn’t understand what she was telling me. She also told me your Crow has power and you should learn to use it. She also told me the plan she gave you won’t work. I think we have to kill the Witch.”
Suzy yawned, “I know that’s the way Autum gave me information. I got good at solving this stuff. I don’t know if she is not allowed to tell us strait out, or if it’s to hide it from the Witch. In either case this one is simple. We only have one thang that’s not from our time or this time. The truck was made before we were born, and after this time. We’ll just have to figure it out.”
Just then the south bound stage from Spokane pulled up out front, and people were getting out. Rebecca went out and gave Clyde an envelope and informed, “It’s for the paper.”
Clyde pulled out the mail bag and tossed it to Rebecca requesting, “Could you take the mail bag to Hank, and see if he has one going south?”
Rebecca took the mail bag and headed down the street as Clyde called out, “Thanks Rebecca.”
At the store Rebecca yelled coming in the door, “Emily the mails here.”
Emily reached under the counter and pulled out a mail bag and insisted, “Take this one to Clyde.”
They exchanged bags and Emily called Hank. Rebecca took the bag to Clyde who was talking to Albert now. Rebecca stood behind Albert and listened, “Next Tuesday you need to have James in Lambert. Some big shots from Wells Fargo are coming in to give him the reward personally.”
Handing Clyde the mail bag Rebecca requested, “Could you ask Tom if I can cover the story. James is from our town and I did break the story.”
Taking the bag Clyde winked and said, “Sure, anything for a pretty lady.”
Albert walked across the street to the blacksmith shop. He sat in his chair and watched out the door as he thought, I know how a Stagecoach works, and how far you can go with how many horses. I know how every piece of iron is made and how it works. I know all the different uses for the rigging. I could use the same rigging to pull a plow, a log, or a stump. But I know nothing about the Iron Horse. I have to find out what it can do so we can use it. Damn it James! Bet you’re taking a nap right now. I wonder how long it took to plow that field with that Iron Horse.
Albert shook his head and got up. Too much was happening to fast. He thought about Jim, Damn it would have been better if you lied to me. When you told me the bullets were that way when you got them. I had thought you lied, but you were telling me the truth the whole time. I thought you were pulling my lag when you told me you were a Time Traveler. But you fooled me with the truth. Who does that? Benjamin you were right James is smart, and Edna is a Witch. What you didn’t know was that a Crow can be good or evil just like people.
Albert had his own ideas, but it would take some doing. Walking by the General Store Albert went in and yelled, “Hank I want the old Feed and Seed!”
Hank came from the back room and Replied, “The roof leaks. It needs to be torn down. What the hell do you want that old thing for?”
Albert answered, “I’m thinking of building a Jail there.”
Hank laughed, “We’ve been over this. The city can’t afford that.”
Albert replied, “I know that, but times will change. Then when the city has the money I’ll sale it to them. But if I build it I wouldn’t have to hall someone to Lambert in a snow storm in the dead of winter.”
Hank insisted, “I don’t think it’s a good idea, but I was thinking five hundred for it. Since it’s you I’d let it go for four. Where you getting that kind of money? You trade for most of your work.”
Albert replied, “I know a sweet little lady that likes my arm.”
Then Albert turned and said, “See you at home Emily.”
Then he went out the door and looked up and down the street. He saw Suzy walking with the Wilson’s back from the Boardinghouse.
At the farm Jim was in a deep sleep when Autum came to him. Listen closely my dear love. I’m so happy you’ve learned love is the key to life. Don’t stop giving it. It will give you power. You need to learn to use the power I have given you. Use it and learn what it can do. It’s before your time but after their time, so no one there can stop it. You and Suzy control it, and your power comes from it. Sorry you have to learn this yourself. This is my gift to you my love, as the Crow is Clara’s to Suzy. Have Suzy learn to use it. Things have changed, the plan Suzy had won’t work now. You need to stop Edna. She already knows you’re from the future. Her birds have told her. Then Autum faded away.
Back in town Suzy was taking the Wilson’s through all the shops, and Albert was heading back to the Boardinghouse. Walking up on the porch he saw Victoria sitting in her chair. He pulled up Jim’s chair and questioned, “Do you think the Whites have money?”
Victoria replied, “I know their rich. I could smell the money the day they got here. I talk to Suzan every morning before anyone is up, and outside when she feed’s her bird. Suzan comes from a rich family and has money, but not James. James was a pour dirt farmer. Suzan’s father disapproved of her marriage to James, so her mother gave her the inheritance. Witch to my understanding is enough to last the rest of her life if she’s not foolish. James on the other hand sold the farm and has a little money, but refuses to use any of Suzan’s money. He doesn’t care how she spends it, and he’s open to letting her do her own thing. That right there is the dream man for any gal. Why do you ask Albert?”
Albert revealed, “James gets his reward next week, and has already ran up a bill with Hank. I was just wondering how they were with money management.”
Victoria replied, “I wouldn’t worry about it Albert. They will do just fine.”
Just then Emily walked up on the porch announcing, “James and Benjamin got mail. James got two cards and a letter, and Benjamin got a letter from New York.”
Going inside Emily put the mail on the end of the table, and went to her room.
Then Henry came up on the porch. Seeing Albert he informed, “I stopped at the Store for some matches, and Hank said you were thinking of buying the old Feed and Seed. What do you want that for?”
As Rebecca came up Albert replied, “I have an idea.”
Rebecca mentioned in passing, “Your ad for the cow should be in Thursdays Paper Albert.”
Henry questioned, “What are you going to do with a cow.”
Albert replied, “James and Suzan aren’t the only ones with a heart. I might want to spread some love around.”
Henry insisted, “What are you thinking Albert? I work right next to you, and I don’t see anyone knocking your door down for work. Where do you think you’re getting all this money to buy a cow and the Feed and Seed?”
Albert insisted, “I have an idea for that too.”
Victoria came out and announced, “Come on in guys. It looks like James and Suzan are going to be late. Dinner is on the table.”
At the farm Jesse pulled up to the house looking at the field he blurted, “What the hell! That’s not possible!”
He parked the wagon and walked to the edge of the field. Suzy helped Margaret carry their purchases in the house. Where Margaret gave Suzy a big hug and whispered in her ear, “I love you! If you ever need anything I’m on it like wood on a fire.”
Outside Jim walked up to Jesse and questioned, “What do you think?”
Jesse replied, “If I didn’t see it I wouldn’t believe it. You know Tommy told us a wild story about plowing it with you and using an Iron Horse.”
Jim socked Jesse in the shoulder and revealed, “Kids you’ve got to love them. I’ll get our team to you tomorrow, so you can start running the harrow over it.”
Jesse insisted, “I can’t do that in a day like you.”
Jim revealed, “You don’t have ten draft horses, and four guys to help you. Did you see them leaving on your way in?”
Jesse replied, “Give me about three days. I think I can have it done by then if it doesn’t rain.”
Jim looked over and saw Suzy was ready to go and informed, “Suzan is ready to go. I’ll get the horses out to you tomorrow.”
They stopped at the Livery and paid the stable boy to put Patty and Charlie away then walked home. They walked up on the porch to find Henry enjoying his pipe. Looking up Henry announced, “The stew is on the back of the stove. Be careful around Albert he’s acting strange. Last time I saw him mixed up like this was when his wife died. I hope he gets over it soon.”
Jim spoke softly, “I think he just needs some time. He’s been busy lately first building the grappling hook. Then the plow for me, and now he has nothing to do. I’ll see if I can find something to keep him busy to make him feel better.”
Then they went in and dished up a bowl of stew and went to the table. Benjamin was sitting by the lamp reading a letter and informed, “The mail on the end of the table is for you James.”
Jim was getting cards and letters from people he didn’t even know. Jim looked at Suzy and she shrugged her shoulders. Setting down his bowl Jim retrieved the mail. Looking at the first card he read, “I just want to thank you so much for having the courage to stop Jack Callen. He took my brother’s life on his way home. June Whitfield.”
Jim slid the card across the table to Suzy. Then picked up the next card it read, “I’m so proud of your bravery to remove that peace of … It’s an honor to have you among us. It’s people like you that give us all hope. Thank you John Husking.”
Then Jim slid the card to Suzy and opened the letter.
Carl Woods wrote, “I just wanted to thank you so much for catching Jack Callen. I was on the stage to Boise when he robbed it. He shot the driver and made all the passengers get out. Then he made us strip down to nothing. I felt so bad for my sweet Alanine, because the other two passengers where men. He went through our close and took what he wanted. Then he piled our close ten feet away from us.
Then he dumped out all our bags and took what he wanted. After taking all our Jewelry, money, and whatever else he wanted. He rode off with my wife, and had his way with her. Then he just dumped her out on the road in her nothingness.
I would consider it an honor if you would join me for the hanging.
Thank you Carl”
Jim threw the letter on the table and growled, “I should have killed the bastard!”
Then he stomped off to his room and laid on the bed. Suzy picked up the letter and read it. Then she exclaimed, “Oh my God!”
Benjamin looked up from his letter saying, “My dad always writes four or five pages on both sides. What’s the matter?”
Suzy handed the letter to Benjamin. Looking it over Benjamin commented, “Thank God their hanging the bastard. That’s sick, and that poor guy has to live knowing that. James did a good thing.”
Suzy picked up the bowls and put them in the kitchen. Then went to her room, and laid next to Jim. Jim whispered, “I’m not reading any more of them. If I get mail just throw it away. I can’t read stuff like that.”
Suzy insisted, “I’m sorry Jim. I was afraid something like this would happen. I warned you about being famous.”
Jim replied, “I know. Autum came to me today. She told me she gave us power and we should learn to use it. She said it’s before your time but after their time. I didn’t understand what she was telling me. She also told me your Crow has power and you should learn to use it. She also told me the plan she gave you won’t work. I think we have to kill the Witch.”
Suzy yawned, “I know that’s the way Autum gave me information. I got good at solving this stuff. I don’t know if she is not allowed to tell us strait out, or if it’s to hide it from the Witch. In either case this one is simple. We only have one thang that’s not from our time or this time. The truck was made before we were born, and after this time. We’ll just have to figure it out.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Chapter Fifteen - Shelton Gang
The next morning Suzy got up with Victoria and made the bread. At breakfast Suzy sat next to Albert and asked, “You doing alright Albert?”
Albert replied, “Sure, I want you to come down to the blacksmith shop today. I want to talk to you about something.”
Suzy replied, “I can do that.”
From across the table Jim questioned, “Henry how much would you charge me to have your stable boy take my team out to the Wilson farm?
Henry looked up and replied, “50 ¢ and you muck out two stalls. Then if it gets busy you have to do the stable boy’s job.”
Jim bellowed, “What? You want me to muck out stalls?”
Henry replied, “You paid for self-care. I’ve seen Suzan down there brushing them out, but you have never muck out their stalls. My stable boy has been doing it. Oh yah remember you only paid for one week.”
Jim dropped his head and mumbled, “I guess I muck out stalls.”
Albert stood up and announced, “Ready Henry? Come on James time to shovel some you know what.”
Walking out Albert announced, “Ladies.”
After seeing Patty and Charlie off Jim mucked out their stalls. Then he went to the Blacksmith shop and talked with Albert.
“I don’t want to make this sound crazy, but we have a connection to the other side. You know where people go when they die. In our time we’re still fighting the Witch’s spirit. We had a spirit guide called a medium that could talk to the other side. She would help us and tell us what loved ones that passed on would say. When we left our time we lost that guide. Now we have the Crow for a guide. The Crow works different from the medium. We could talk to the medium and get answers, but the crow just puts thoughts in our mind. Then we have to guess what to do with it. It will also lead us somewhere, show us something, or worn us of danger.
This fight we’re in is a fight between good and evil. We do good and evil tries to steal it for their use. The only weapon we have evil can’t touch is love. Love has power over everything. Suzy has a lot of outward love, but inside she’s in pain. She is felled with anguish, grief, regret, and sorrow, so much so it hurts me to think of it. She carries that with her every day, and yet somehow gives love to everyone around her.
I have to tell you we don’t have a plan. We had one before we got here, but what we thought would work is useless. It would just stop one spell, and she is casting spells and incantations every day. You’ve seen some of them from the Crow. Some turn into a curse that is passed on from father to son, or mother to daughter, and can go on until the blood line ends. That’s the one we came to stop. It’s still going on a hundred and fifty years from now. Believe it or not Edna’s spirit is still living in the Hanson house a hundred and fifty years from now. We were fighting her every day until we came back to this time. We’re sure she knows where here, but if she kills me the curse ends.
As far as we know there is only one way to kill a Witch. You have to hang the Witch, and burn her body. If you don’t burn her body she will come back to life in a few days.
Just then Henry walked in and questioned, “Talking about Witches are you. Where’s Benjamin he knows all about that stuff. He’s from England where they fight Witches all the time. Jim I got a customer that needs a horse saddled up. Can you go take care of them?”
Jim jumped up and said, “Sure.”
Over at the stables Jim saw it was Suzy with a horse all saddled up. She questioned, “How is Albert doing?”
Jim replied, “I’ve been telling him everything, and he hasn’t said a word. I don’t know what he’s thinking, but at this point I think we’re fine. No one would ever believe him anyway. Hell, I almost don’t believe it and I’m living it.”
Suzy laughed and informed, “I’m worried about Albert. What do you think he wants to talk to me about?”
Jim replied, “I don’t know, I’ll see if I can find out?”
Jim saw her off and headed back to the blacksmith shop.
Henry questioned, “Yesterday when you went out to the Wilson farm. How did that plow work? Where you right about how many horses it would take?”
Albert replied, “I don’t know I didn’t count them, but I can tell you that plow cut through the ground like a hot knife through butter. It slid so nice the guy running the plow was almost running. Jim was kicked back against the barn sleeping when I got there.”
Jim came in and joked, “Talking about me again are yah?”
Henry replied, “You know it. Albert told me you went out there and slept all day.”
Jim smiled, “Yes I did. Are you jealous that you have to work all day brushing horses?”
Henry laughed, “Don’t forget that I shovel shit to. I might have to come over here and muck this place out next. It is getting deep in here.”
Walking out the door Henry commented, “I hope your sweetheart don’t fall off. I didn’t think you could saddle a horse.”
Albert laughed, “I think we all know Suzy knows all about horses, and you don’t know shit.”
Jim responded, “She might know the horses, but I know every nut, bolt, spring, and part on the Iron Horse. I built it all, and it’s called a truck by the way. That was my job all the stuff and horses was Suzan’s Job. She picked the blacksmith and wood worker to build the wagon. You have no idea how hard it is to find a blacksmith in our time. Everything in our time is made by machines.”
Albert confessed, “I hate to tell you this James, but my head is spinning. You’re telling me so much so fast I’m overwhelmed. I need time to take this all in.”
Jim questioned, “Do you want the badge back Albert?”
Albert insisted, “No, you’re my deputy and that hasn’t changed.”
Jim insisted, “Then let’s put our badge and guns on. Then we can walk through town. Heck I’ll even buy us one of the bottle drinks at the store. Then we can sit on the bench out front and watch the town.”
A smile came to Albert’s face as he exclaimed, “Let’s do it.”
So that’s just what they did. They went down the street and got a drink at the store. Then sat out front and talked.
Albert questioned, “How long would it take you to get to the Iron Horse?
Jim thought before answering. He didn’t want to give up too much information. Albert might go looking for the truck. Finely Jim replied, “Let’s just say if I was being chased by a posse. It would be over an hour.”
Albert insisted, “Hell no! That will never work James. That’s a weapon and you need to be able to get to it right away. Look at our guns for instants. We always have them with us or in reach. At the Blacksmith shop we hang them on the peg on the wall by the door. At the house we hang them on the peg by the back door, or in our room. If we’re not wearing our guns, then their wear we can get them fast.”
Jim thought about what Albert was saying. This is how a law man would think, and he’s right. We needed the truck closer. Albert went on, “I know it works if you touch me, or I ride in the Iron Horse. Will it work if I’m touching you or Suzan? Can I ride on the front of the Iron Horse, in the back, or hang off the side for it to work. Or does it only work when I’m inside of it.”
Jim looked at Albert with a puzzled look and replied, “I don’t know.”
Albert went on, “I noticed when we were in the restaurant the flame in the lantern froze in place like everyone else. Have you tried to shoot your gun in that state. Do you know if it will work?”
Jim broke in, “Whoa, whoa, slow down. Too much too fast, and I have no idea about any of that stuff. We were going to come here and stop the killing of the saloon girl. Now we find we have to fight the witch. We have what we need. We just have to learn how to use it.”
Just then Suzy road up on her rented horse, and slipped down. Then laid the rains over the hitching post, and walked up and sat between Albert and Jim. Slipping her hand under Albert’s muscular bicep she questioned, “What did you want to talk to me about?”
Albert stuttered, “Money?”
Giving his arm a squeeze Suzy questioned, “How much?”
Albert jumped up and replied, “Don’t do that I can’t think.”
Jim questioned, “What are you doing Suzan?”
Suzy smiled, “Nothing Jim. How much do you need Albert?”
Albert replied. “Maybe we could go look at it.”
Suzy inquired, “Where is it at?”
Albert informed, “Across from the Livery and Blacksmith shop. I’ll go in and get a key from Hank,”
Albert went in the store. Then Suzy said, “I’ll meet you down there,” and went to her horse.
Jim picked up the bottles and took them into Emily. Then he walked down to the old Feed and Seed with Albert. Suzy had hitched her horse to the hitching post, and was standing in the street. Albert and Jim arrived and walked up on the loading dock. Walking to the man door Albert pulled the Skelton key from his pocket. Then he opened the door and stepped in. swinging his arm around to clear the cobwebs Albert announced, “It needs a little cleaning.”
Suzy choked, “You telling me. You sure this place is safe? I can see light coming through the roof.”
Albert insisted, “It’s fine, it just needs a new roof and it’s only $400. I was thinking this would be a good place to put the Iron Horse. What do you think?”
Suzy grabbed Jim’s arm and pulled him to the side and whispered, “Do you think it’s safe to let Albert know where the truck is?”
Jim whispered, “I think the more important question is. Are we safe having the truck that far away? Albert pointed out that we keep our guns where we can get to them fast when needed. Isn’t our truck a weapon? If something happens how long would it take us to get to the truck? That’s if we had enough time to even get to it.”
Suzy looked at Albert watching them and announced. “I want to see your draw.”
Albert said, “What!”
Suzy insisted, “Show me how fast you can draw your gun.”
Albert jerked his gun from his holster then looked at Suzy. Suzy looked at Jim and exclaimed, “You can beat him. Meet me at Hanks.”
Then she went out the door, and rode off on her horse. Walking back to the store Albert asked, “What was that all about James?”
James replied, “If you try to cross us or something she’ll tell me to kill you, but don’t worry I trust you. You don’t know how to start the truck, or use the truck anyway. That is if you even could.”
Walking in Albert and Jim saw Suzy at the counter with Hank. Albert and Jim walked up and stood behind Suzy as she slammed a gold bar on the counter. Then she offered, “Nineteen and three-quarter ounces for the Feed and Seed.”
Hank insisted, “I can’t sale it to you. You’re a woman.”
Suzy demanded, “Sheriff, Deputy, Get up here and offer three hundred and seventy five in gold for the Feed and Seed.”
Hank replied, “I told you $400 Albert.”
Albert replied, “That was before you let us inside, and we saw how bad it really was. The only thing that building is good for is firewood.”
Then Albert put his hand on the gold bar slid it back a little and said. “Going, going”
Hank blurted, “Deal, but you pay the County Clerk’s two dollar filing fee.”
Albert insisted, “Let’s walk down to the land office and put it in James white and Albert Blocker’s name.”
That night at dinner there was a pound on the front door. Victoria called out, “I got it.”
Albert blurted, “No one comes to the front door.” Then he ran out the back door and got his gun. Coming back in the back door with his gun on Victoria called out, “Albert it’s for the Sheriff.”
Albert walked to the front door and saw a young man about seventeen or so. Albert asked, “What do you need?”
The young lad replied, “I have a letter from the Marshal in Lambert.”
The young man handed Albert the letter, and headed back to his horse. Albert closed the door and went back to the table and opened the letter. Looking up Albert informed, “It’s from Bill the Marshal in Lambert. He says the Shelton gang is in the area and he wants me to check all abandon buildings around here.”
Looking to Jim Albert insisted, “Looks like we go for a ride tomorrow Jim.”
Henry spoke up, “I’ll get up early and have a couple horses waiting for you. You should probably check the old Wayne place.”
That night in bed Jim told Suzy that if they went anywhere near the Truck, he would bring it to the new hiding place. She agreed it would be a good idea.
The next morning Albert came to the table caring a blanket roll and canteen. Jim questioned, “What’s that?”
Albert replied, “Supper, I have two cans of beans, a pan, and some jerky rolled up in there.”
Victoria set a plate with two pancakes on it in front of Jim and assured, “Suzy has your pancakes in the pan Albert.”
After they ate Albert insisted, “Get your canteen Jim and let’s go.”
Standing in front of the coach house was Henry’s stable boy holding two saddled up horses. Albert and Jim headed north out of town. Jim knew that was where the Hanson farm was so he asked, “Where we going Albert?”
With the horses just moseying along Albert replied, “I want to check the old Cooper place. Mrs. Cooper is staying in a room over the Saloon, and Earl Hanson has no use for the house, so I thought we should check it. Then there is a couple of line shacks over the creek on the back of the Hanson place. I think we should check them out. Then go down the creek and check the old Wayne place.”
Jim felt relief fall over hem. Even though he wanted to see what his house looked like a hundred fifty years ago. There was no way he wanted to see Edna. Arriving at the old Cooper place Albert unmounted and walked to the window with his horse in tow. Holding one hand up to block the reflection he looked through the window. All of Mrs. Cooper’s furniture was still in the house, but there was no one there. Jim checked the barn, but it was the same. All the stuff was there, but no animals.
Jim yelled, “Nothing here Albert.”
Albert replied, “Same for the house.”
Then they rode out on the back of the property and across the creek. Coming to the first line shack Jim saw a little one room cabin. It had a stove pipe sticking out of the roof, and a covered horse stall on one side. There was one small window next to the door. Jim road up next to the window and looked in. Then he announced, “Nothing here.”
Albert had already put all the pieces to gather, and was sure Jim was a Hanson. In a daring move Albert questioned, “Would you really shoot me if Suzy told you to?”
The next morning Suzy got up with Victoria and made the bread. At breakfast Suzy sat next to Albert and asked, “You doing alright Albert?”
Albert replied, “Sure, I want you to come down to the blacksmith shop today. I want to talk to you about something.”
Suzy replied, “I can do that.”
From across the table Jim questioned, “Henry how much would you charge me to have your stable boy take my team out to the Wilson farm?
Henry looked up and replied, “50 ¢ and you muck out two stalls. Then if it gets busy you have to do the stable boy’s job.”
Jim bellowed, “What? You want me to muck out stalls?”
Henry replied, “You paid for self-care. I’ve seen Suzan down there brushing them out, but you have never muck out their stalls. My stable boy has been doing it. Oh yah remember you only paid for one week.”
Jim dropped his head and mumbled, “I guess I muck out stalls.”
Albert stood up and announced, “Ready Henry? Come on James time to shovel some you know what.”
Walking out Albert announced, “Ladies.”
After seeing Patty and Charlie off Jim mucked out their stalls. Then he went to the Blacksmith shop and talked with Albert.
“I don’t want to make this sound crazy, but we have a connection to the other side. You know where people go when they die. In our time we’re still fighting the Witch’s spirit. We had a spirit guide called a medium that could talk to the other side. She would help us and tell us what loved ones that passed on would say. When we left our time we lost that guide. Now we have the Crow for a guide. The Crow works different from the medium. We could talk to the medium and get answers, but the crow just puts thoughts in our mind. Then we have to guess what to do with it. It will also lead us somewhere, show us something, or worn us of danger.
This fight we’re in is a fight between good and evil. We do good and evil tries to steal it for their use. The only weapon we have evil can’t touch is love. Love has power over everything. Suzy has a lot of outward love, but inside she’s in pain. She is felled with anguish, grief, regret, and sorrow, so much so it hurts me to think of it. She carries that with her every day, and yet somehow gives love to everyone around her.
I have to tell you we don’t have a plan. We had one before we got here, but what we thought would work is useless. It would just stop one spell, and she is casting spells and incantations every day. You’ve seen some of them from the Crow. Some turn into a curse that is passed on from father to son, or mother to daughter, and can go on until the blood line ends. That’s the one we came to stop. It’s still going on a hundred and fifty years from now. Believe it or not Edna’s spirit is still living in the Hanson house a hundred and fifty years from now. We were fighting her every day until we came back to this time. We’re sure she knows where here, but if she kills me the curse ends.
As far as we know there is only one way to kill a Witch. You have to hang the Witch, and burn her body. If you don’t burn her body she will come back to life in a few days.
Just then Henry walked in and questioned, “Talking about Witches are you. Where’s Benjamin he knows all about that stuff. He’s from England where they fight Witches all the time. Jim I got a customer that needs a horse saddled up. Can you go take care of them?”
Jim jumped up and said, “Sure.”
Over at the stables Jim saw it was Suzy with a horse all saddled up. She questioned, “How is Albert doing?”
Jim replied, “I’ve been telling him everything, and he hasn’t said a word. I don’t know what he’s thinking, but at this point I think we’re fine. No one would ever believe him anyway. Hell, I almost don’t believe it and I’m living it.”
Suzy laughed and informed, “I’m worried about Albert. What do you think he wants to talk to me about?”
Jim replied, “I don’t know, I’ll see if I can find out?”
Jim saw her off and headed back to the blacksmith shop.
Henry questioned, “Yesterday when you went out to the Wilson farm. How did that plow work? Where you right about how many horses it would take?”
Albert replied, “I don’t know I didn’t count them, but I can tell you that plow cut through the ground like a hot knife through butter. It slid so nice the guy running the plow was almost running. Jim was kicked back against the barn sleeping when I got there.”
Jim came in and joked, “Talking about me again are yah?”
Henry replied, “You know it. Albert told me you went out there and slept all day.”
Jim smiled, “Yes I did. Are you jealous that you have to work all day brushing horses?”
Henry laughed, “Don’t forget that I shovel shit to. I might have to come over here and muck this place out next. It is getting deep in here.”
Walking out the door Henry commented, “I hope your sweetheart don’t fall off. I didn’t think you could saddle a horse.”
Albert laughed, “I think we all know Suzy knows all about horses, and you don’t know shit.”
Jim responded, “She might know the horses, but I know every nut, bolt, spring, and part on the Iron Horse. I built it all, and it’s called a truck by the way. That was my job all the stuff and horses was Suzan’s Job. She picked the blacksmith and wood worker to build the wagon. You have no idea how hard it is to find a blacksmith in our time. Everything in our time is made by machines.”
Albert confessed, “I hate to tell you this James, but my head is spinning. You’re telling me so much so fast I’m overwhelmed. I need time to take this all in.”
Jim questioned, “Do you want the badge back Albert?”
Albert insisted, “No, you’re my deputy and that hasn’t changed.”
Jim insisted, “Then let’s put our badge and guns on. Then we can walk through town. Heck I’ll even buy us one of the bottle drinks at the store. Then we can sit on the bench out front and watch the town.”
A smile came to Albert’s face as he exclaimed, “Let’s do it.”
So that’s just what they did. They went down the street and got a drink at the store. Then sat out front and talked.
Albert questioned, “How long would it take you to get to the Iron Horse?
Jim thought before answering. He didn’t want to give up too much information. Albert might go looking for the truck. Finely Jim replied, “Let’s just say if I was being chased by a posse. It would be over an hour.”
Albert insisted, “Hell no! That will never work James. That’s a weapon and you need to be able to get to it right away. Look at our guns for instants. We always have them with us or in reach. At the Blacksmith shop we hang them on the peg on the wall by the door. At the house we hang them on the peg by the back door, or in our room. If we’re not wearing our guns, then their wear we can get them fast.”
Jim thought about what Albert was saying. This is how a law man would think, and he’s right. We needed the truck closer. Albert went on, “I know it works if you touch me, or I ride in the Iron Horse. Will it work if I’m touching you or Suzan? Can I ride on the front of the Iron Horse, in the back, or hang off the side for it to work. Or does it only work when I’m inside of it.”
Jim looked at Albert with a puzzled look and replied, “I don’t know.”
Albert went on, “I noticed when we were in the restaurant the flame in the lantern froze in place like everyone else. Have you tried to shoot your gun in that state. Do you know if it will work?”
Jim broke in, “Whoa, whoa, slow down. Too much too fast, and I have no idea about any of that stuff. We were going to come here and stop the killing of the saloon girl. Now we find we have to fight the witch. We have what we need. We just have to learn how to use it.”
Just then Suzy road up on her rented horse, and slipped down. Then laid the rains over the hitching post, and walked up and sat between Albert and Jim. Slipping her hand under Albert’s muscular bicep she questioned, “What did you want to talk to me about?”
Albert stuttered, “Money?”
Giving his arm a squeeze Suzy questioned, “How much?”
Albert jumped up and replied, “Don’t do that I can’t think.”
Jim questioned, “What are you doing Suzan?”
Suzy smiled, “Nothing Jim. How much do you need Albert?”
Albert replied. “Maybe we could go look at it.”
Suzy inquired, “Where is it at?”
Albert informed, “Across from the Livery and Blacksmith shop. I’ll go in and get a key from Hank,”
Albert went in the store. Then Suzy said, “I’ll meet you down there,” and went to her horse.
Jim picked up the bottles and took them into Emily. Then he walked down to the old Feed and Seed with Albert. Suzy had hitched her horse to the hitching post, and was standing in the street. Albert and Jim arrived and walked up on the loading dock. Walking to the man door Albert pulled the Skelton key from his pocket. Then he opened the door and stepped in. swinging his arm around to clear the cobwebs Albert announced, “It needs a little cleaning.”
Suzy choked, “You telling me. You sure this place is safe? I can see light coming through the roof.”
Albert insisted, “It’s fine, it just needs a new roof and it’s only $400. I was thinking this would be a good place to put the Iron Horse. What do you think?”
Suzy grabbed Jim’s arm and pulled him to the side and whispered, “Do you think it’s safe to let Albert know where the truck is?”
Jim whispered, “I think the more important question is. Are we safe having the truck that far away? Albert pointed out that we keep our guns where we can get to them fast when needed. Isn’t our truck a weapon? If something happens how long would it take us to get to the truck? That’s if we had enough time to even get to it.”
Suzy looked at Albert watching them and announced. “I want to see your draw.”
Albert said, “What!”
Suzy insisted, “Show me how fast you can draw your gun.”
Albert jerked his gun from his holster then looked at Suzy. Suzy looked at Jim and exclaimed, “You can beat him. Meet me at Hanks.”
Then she went out the door, and rode off on her horse. Walking back to the store Albert asked, “What was that all about James?”
James replied, “If you try to cross us or something she’ll tell me to kill you, but don’t worry I trust you. You don’t know how to start the truck, or use the truck anyway. That is if you even could.”
Walking in Albert and Jim saw Suzy at the counter with Hank. Albert and Jim walked up and stood behind Suzy as she slammed a gold bar on the counter. Then she offered, “Nineteen and three-quarter ounces for the Feed and Seed.”
Hank insisted, “I can’t sale it to you. You’re a woman.”
Suzy demanded, “Sheriff, Deputy, Get up here and offer three hundred and seventy five in gold for the Feed and Seed.”
Hank replied, “I told you $400 Albert.”
Albert replied, “That was before you let us inside, and we saw how bad it really was. The only thing that building is good for is firewood.”
Then Albert put his hand on the gold bar slid it back a little and said. “Going, going”
Hank blurted, “Deal, but you pay the County Clerk’s two dollar filing fee.”
Albert insisted, “Let’s walk down to the land office and put it in James white and Albert Blocker’s name.”
That night at dinner there was a pound on the front door. Victoria called out, “I got it.”
Albert blurted, “No one comes to the front door.” Then he ran out the back door and got his gun. Coming back in the back door with his gun on Victoria called out, “Albert it’s for the Sheriff.”
Albert walked to the front door and saw a young man about seventeen or so. Albert asked, “What do you need?”
The young lad replied, “I have a letter from the Marshal in Lambert.”
The young man handed Albert the letter, and headed back to his horse. Albert closed the door and went back to the table and opened the letter. Looking up Albert informed, “It’s from Bill the Marshal in Lambert. He says the Shelton gang is in the area and he wants me to check all abandon buildings around here.”
Looking to Jim Albert insisted, “Looks like we go for a ride tomorrow Jim.”
Henry spoke up, “I’ll get up early and have a couple horses waiting for you. You should probably check the old Wayne place.”
That night in bed Jim told Suzy that if they went anywhere near the Truck, he would bring it to the new hiding place. She agreed it would be a good idea.
The next morning Albert came to the table caring a blanket roll and canteen. Jim questioned, “What’s that?”
Albert replied, “Supper, I have two cans of beans, a pan, and some jerky rolled up in there.”
Victoria set a plate with two pancakes on it in front of Jim and assured, “Suzy has your pancakes in the pan Albert.”
After they ate Albert insisted, “Get your canteen Jim and let’s go.”
Standing in front of the coach house was Henry’s stable boy holding two saddled up horses. Albert and Jim headed north out of town. Jim knew that was where the Hanson farm was so he asked, “Where we going Albert?”
With the horses just moseying along Albert replied, “I want to check the old Cooper place. Mrs. Cooper is staying in a room over the Saloon, and Earl Hanson has no use for the house, so I thought we should check it. Then there is a couple of line shacks over the creek on the back of the Hanson place. I think we should check them out. Then go down the creek and check the old Wayne place.”
Jim felt relief fall over hem. Even though he wanted to see what his house looked like a hundred fifty years ago. There was no way he wanted to see Edna. Arriving at the old Cooper place Albert unmounted and walked to the window with his horse in tow. Holding one hand up to block the reflection he looked through the window. All of Mrs. Cooper’s furniture was still in the house, but there was no one there. Jim checked the barn, but it was the same. All the stuff was there, but no animals.
Jim yelled, “Nothing here Albert.”
Albert replied, “Same for the house.”
Then they rode out on the back of the property and across the creek. Coming to the first line shack Jim saw a little one room cabin. It had a stove pipe sticking out of the roof, and a covered horse stall on one side. There was one small window next to the door. Jim road up next to the window and looked in. Then he announced, “Nothing here.”
Albert had already put all the pieces to gather, and was sure Jim was a Hanson. In a daring move Albert questioned, “Would you really shoot me if Suzy told you to?”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Jim laughed, “Albert she’s never going to do that. Where’s the love in that? I would never do it. I couldn’t bring myself to even think about that. She just said that to let you know how important this is to us. We’ve put our lives on the line just to make it here. We could have taken the truck and kidnapped anyone and forced them to help us, but we chose you. We know why, but you’ll have to come to your own conclusion on that.”
Albert questioned, “Then tell me are you a Hanson?”
Jim replied, “A hundred and fifty years from now. I will own the Hanson land, well what’s left of the land anyway. In our time we’ve trapped the Witch’s spirit in the house. The Witch has been killing our family members for the last hundred and fifty years. We came back here to kill the bitch. Is that plain enough for you?”
Albert insisted, “I understand James. That crow showed me all the people the witch has and will kill. I saw the fencepost smashed into Suzan’s mother’s head, and Suzan crying as a little girl. I also saw you as a young man standing over your mother in the kitchen of the Hanson house, and she had a knife sticking out of her eye socket. Do you won’t me to go on?”
Jim replied, “There is no need for that I know the Crow. That bird hold’s nothing back. I don’t think it has a filter.”
Jim saw an old shack in front of them. There was a man cutting and stacking firewood next to the shack. The man looked up as they rode up and affirmed, “Sheriff, Deputy what can I do yah for?”
Albert replied, “Looks like you’re stuck out here cutting wood. Who are you, and how long you been doing this?”
The man replied, “I’m Ray Johnson, and Mr. Hanson sent me out here yesterday to start putting up wood for next winter.”
Albert continued, “Have you seen anyone?”
Ray replied, ‘No just that Squirrel over there and you two.”
Albert informed, “Well keep your eyes open. The Shelton gang has been seen out here somewhere. If you see anything you need to let us know.”
Ray replied, “I’ll keep my eyes open Sheriff.”
Then Jim and Albert headed down stream. Jim knew the Truck was on the other side of the creek, and downstream, but that was clear over on the other side of town. He also knew that the stream that ran through town, and behind the Boardinghouse ran into the creek. He just didn’t know where that was from where he was at. Then Albert headed west heading to the old Wayne place,
Jim was trying to put their path together in his head. Thinking first we went north then we turned west at the Cooper’s. After that we went northwest to the line shack. Then we went south following the creek. We should be about ten miles west of town and five miles north of the truck.
Going up a hill Albert cried out, “You learned to ride that thing yet?”
After the lessons with Suzy Jim thought he knew what he was doing. Jim yelled, “I got it.”
Albert yelled, “Then get up here with me.”
Jim gave the horse a kick and yelled, “Get going lazy ass.”
Albert laughed, “Watch out. Talking to him like that might get you bucked off.”
Catching up to Albert Jim saw the House. It was a mess and over grown with vines. The roof on one of the rooms had caved in and most of the windows were broken. You could tell no one had been there for a long time. Albert got down from his horse and announced, “Time to eat. See if you can gather up some wood for a fire.”
As Albert heated up the beans Jim confessed, “The Truck is about eight miles to the south west of us right now. If you want to take it back to town we can.”
Albert replied. “I was hoping you were thinking about the Iron Horse. Boy you hid it a long way from town. You’d never have made it to it in an emergency. Heck the entire town could burn down before you got to it.”
Jim replied, “I know, but we weren’t thinking of using it after we got here. Our thought was it was a time machine, and not that it was a weapon. It was you that opened our eyes to that possibility.”
Albert informed, “Beans are done, but one of us has to eat out of a can. I got two spoons, the pan, and a can. You want the pan or the can?”
Jim replied, “Give me the can.”
After they rode down the hill, and crossed the creek. They rode downstream to the truck. Jim looked at the truck and then at Albert and informed, “I’m not sure how we can do this. Get back on your horse Albert. I want to try something.”
Jim got the key from his pocket and opened the truck door. Then slipped the key in the ignition, and shut the door. He started the truck and looked at Albert and realized he was frozen. Jim let the truck worm up before turning it off. Then he rolled down the window, and put out his arm. With his arm hanging out Jim instructed Albert to ride up and take his hand. James looked at the horse next to the truck and shook his head mumbling, “That will never work it’s too dangerous. I can’t drive one handed with a horse like that.”
Albert hypothesized, “When I sit in the truck it works and I’m not touching it. My clothes are between me and the truck, but it works. Is there a part of the truck you can take off, and I can put in my pocket. Could we try that?”
Jim agreed, “Let’s try it. Let me see I never use the low range shift lever. I’ll take the knob off that.”
Jim got out and pulled the seat forward and took out a plastic tool case. Albert’s eyes opened wide when Jim opened the case and set it on the seat. Albert scanned all the sockets, ratchet, pliers, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, wrenches, hammer, and crescent wrench. Albert reached out and ran his finger over the needle nose pliers. Then he questioned, “You know how to use all of these?”
Jim replied, “Sure, this is nothing compared to what I have back where I came from. I told you I put every part on this thing.”
Taking the crescent wrench Jim loosened the lock nut on the shifter knob. He set the crescent wrench on the case, and screwed off the knob. Sliding back he saw Albert spinning the adjustment on the crescent wrench. Albert insisted, “Oh yes, I’m inventing this.”
Jim took the crescent wrench and snapped it back in the case and barked, “You can’t do that! It won’t be invented for another forty years or so.”
Albert wined, “Yah but something like that could make me rich.”
Jim insisted, “No, it’s going to make some immigrant rich in forty years.”
Jim requested, “Here put this ball in your pocket. Then go stand by your horse.”
Then Jim started the truck and Albert didn’t freeze. Jim yelled, “Yahoo! You’re a genius Albert. Now touch your horse.”
Albert took the rains and nothing happened, so he touched his horse on the neck and it came to life. Then he held his fist in the air and bellowed, “I have the power.”
Albert questioned, “What about your horse James? I can’t ride my horse and keep one hand on your horse all the way to town. That’s not possible.”
Jim assured, “I have an idea.”
Jim unfastened the back flap of the truck cover, and folded it up. Then he laid it over his horse. His horse came to life and Jim yell, “Oh yah baby!”
Albert questioned, “Are you having delusions of being an Angel?”
Jim responded, “You bet yah baby.”
Albert just shook his head and thought, To bad I can never tell anyone about this.
Albert tethered Jim’s horse to his and followed the truck to town.
In town everything stopped. Suzy was in the kitchen with Victoria when it stopped. She knew Jim might bring back the truck so she headed to the feed and seed. On her way time started. Walking by Mable’s shop Suzy saw Edna coming out of the store. Edna had George and Charles with her. The boys where caring supplies to their wagon, as Suzy dashed into Mable’s dress shop. Looking out the window Suzy heard Mable say, “What you looking at Suzy?”
Without turning around, Suzy replied, “I’m just watching Edna Hanson coming out of the store.”
Mable commented, “I saw her earlier with her boys. This is her shopping day.”
Edna and the boys drove off in the wagon and Suzy turned around. Then she questioned, “Oh that looks nice. It must be Helen’s dress because it’s purple.”
Mable apologized, “I’m sorry Helen’s dress was so much more than the larger girls, but purple material cost so much more.”
Suzy insisted, “It’s got to be purple. I’m planting a memory that this little girl well remember for a life time.”
Mable insisted, “White lace it is then.”
Then Mable froze in place. Suzy stomped her foot and cursed, “Damn it Jim quit starting and stopping the truck.”
Jim drove the truck out to the road and headed to town. Once on the road he shifted into second gear and let the truck idle a long at ten miles an hour. Jim thought, This is going to take over an hour and a half to get to town. Looking in the mirror Jim saw Albert was keeping up, so Jim just kicked back.
Back in town Suzy left the dress shop, and went down to the feed and seed. She realized it was going to take Jim over an hour to drive the truck back. That is if he was letting Albert keep up. Then it came to her. How can Jim touch Albert if he’s driving? They might need someone to bring back the horses, or Albert is frozen there waiting to come back. Suzy decided to check it out, so she went to the Livery. Then she went in a stall and saddled up a horse. The horse came in and out of a frozen state, as Suzy touched it. Then she got on and rode it out of the stall. Riding down the road to Lambert Suzy thought, Thangs just take too long to get done in this time.
Jim was coming upon the back of a wagon headed to Dention. It was fully loaded with goods, and right in the middle of the road. Jim had to drive off the road to get around it as he mumbled, “Looks like Hank’s getting a delivery today.”
Jim looked in the mirror as Albert went around the wagon. Then he saw a rider coming at him. Jim’s head started to spin and he thought. How can this be? No one can move around. Then it hit him it must be Suzy. Jim slowed to a stop, and sure enough it was Suzy. Riding up to Jim’s window Suzy exclaimed, “You screwed me starting the truck. I’m going to be disappearing in front of people.”
Jim insisted, “Will just have to work it out.”
Albert rode up and Suzy questioned, “What the hell why isn’t Albert and the horses frozen?”
Albert put his fist in the air and insisted, “Because I got the power baby.”
Suzy shook her head and replied, “Oh great now you’ve got Albert doing the baby thing. Get going I’ll ride back with Albert.”
Soon they had made it to the old Feed and Seed building. Jim got down from the truck and Albert met him at the door with the skeleton key. Inside they went and opened the bay door. It didn’t want to move at first, so Albert pulled up on the door with all his might. Then Jim pushed as the door drug on the ground. Albert complained, “Crap, I’m fixing that. We can’t have a door we can’t open. After the door was open Jim backed the truck in. Then they gathered in front of the truck. Suzy explained about disappearing in front of Victoria at the Boardinghouse then again at the dress shop.
Jim gave Suzy and Albert the plan, “We’ll move our horses out back, as Suzy puts the horse she stole back at Henry’s. Then she needs to go to the dress shop, as Albert watches from the street. When Albert see Suzy go in he tells me to turn off the truck. Then Suzy tells Mable she has to go, and goes out the door. When Albert sees Suzy out of the dress shop he will tell me to start the truck. Then Suzy will go to the Boardinghouse and stand by the outhouse and watch through the kitchen window. I will give Suzy about ten minutes to do that, as Albert and I close the door. Then I’ll turn off the truck. Suzy can head into the house and apologize saying she had to go. That is the best I can do. Do either of you have a better idea than that?”
Albert replied, “Works for me.”
Suzy informed, “I’m taking the horse back so Albert won’t have me hanged for a horse thief.”
Albert replied, “What horse?”
After they put everything back in motion Albert and Jim snuck out back to their horses. Then they rode off heading away from town. Making a big loop and ending up at the Boardinghouse. Setting on the porch Albert confessed, “Tomorrow I want to make another hitch for the tongue of your wagon. You know like the one on the plow.”
Jim question, “So I can hook up the wagon like I did the plow.”
Albert replied, “Yep, I want to try something.”
Victoria and Suzy came out and sat on the porch with Jim and Albert. Victoria questioned, “I thought you guys were supposed to be out chasing bad guys?”
Albert replied, “We are, we had to check here to make sure they didn’t come here. If they kidnap you and Suzy we’d starve to death. We already covered the west half of the county. I don’t think their around here.”
Victoria insisted, “If you find them bring them back here. Suzy and I could use a vacation. We could put them to work doing the cooking, cleaning, dishes, and laundry.”
Albert laughed, “If they knew how to do that stuff. They wouldn’t be running around robbing people, making them cook for them, and whatever else they need.”
Albert stood up and announced, “We better go Jim before they have us doing all that stuff.”
Walking off Jim informed, “You wouldn’t want me to cook anyway, but on the other hand if you need some food turned into charcoal. Just let me know.”
They road down to the Blacksmith shop and opened it up. Albert insisted, “The clock in my head is all messed up. I’m thinking it is two or three hours later than it is. Go ahead and start the fire. I’ll dig out what I need for the hitch, and to make new hinges for the Feed and Seed door. I got to fix that.”
An hour later the ringing sound of Albert pounding iron echoed in the air. Throwing a hot peace of iron in the water bucket Albert announced, “That’s parts for one hinge. Soon he had made another, and was working on bending the hoop for the hitch. Jim pumped the bellows a few times, and went out and looked up and down the street. It seemed to be a slow day for town. There were not a lot of people moving around. Looking across the street he saw Rebecca was the only one in the Horseshoe. Witch was normal, it was too late for supper and too early for dinner.
Waiting for a peace of iron to heat up Albert questioned, “What do you think about spending some time with the Iron Horse in the morning.”
Jim replied, “I’ve been trying to think of way’s we could use it, but I haven’t been able to come up with anything. I hope Suzy is doing better with her Crow.”
Albert added, “I was thinking of making a neck shackle for the Witch. I just don’t know if that will be an option. I could never take her to court for casting a spell, and I have no proof that she has killed anyone.”
Jim replied, “That’s why Suzy and I believe we have to kill the Witch. If you said we had to kill her to stop her from killing someone. That would not be a lie, and everyone takes the word of a lawman. A lawman does not have to explain what happened. That’s what a witness does, but we would be the witness. Does that make any since to you Albert?”
Albert agreed, “I think we can work with that, if I was the one to do it to protect someone. Then it would never be questioned, because that’s my job.”
Jim went on, “Now we’re still stuck with the fact that to kill her we have to hang and burn her.”
Albert questioned, “Then tell me are you a Hanson?”
Jim replied, “A hundred and fifty years from now. I will own the Hanson land, well what’s left of the land anyway. In our time we’ve trapped the Witch’s spirit in the house. The Witch has been killing our family members for the last hundred and fifty years. We came back here to kill the bitch. Is that plain enough for you?”
Albert insisted, “I understand James. That crow showed me all the people the witch has and will kill. I saw the fencepost smashed into Suzan’s mother’s head, and Suzan crying as a little girl. I also saw you as a young man standing over your mother in the kitchen of the Hanson house, and she had a knife sticking out of her eye socket. Do you won’t me to go on?”
Jim replied, “There is no need for that I know the Crow. That bird hold’s nothing back. I don’t think it has a filter.”
Jim saw an old shack in front of them. There was a man cutting and stacking firewood next to the shack. The man looked up as they rode up and affirmed, “Sheriff, Deputy what can I do yah for?”
Albert replied, “Looks like you’re stuck out here cutting wood. Who are you, and how long you been doing this?”
The man replied, “I’m Ray Johnson, and Mr. Hanson sent me out here yesterday to start putting up wood for next winter.”
Albert continued, “Have you seen anyone?”
Ray replied, ‘No just that Squirrel over there and you two.”
Albert informed, “Well keep your eyes open. The Shelton gang has been seen out here somewhere. If you see anything you need to let us know.”
Ray replied, “I’ll keep my eyes open Sheriff.”
Then Jim and Albert headed down stream. Jim knew the Truck was on the other side of the creek, and downstream, but that was clear over on the other side of town. He also knew that the stream that ran through town, and behind the Boardinghouse ran into the creek. He just didn’t know where that was from where he was at. Then Albert headed west heading to the old Wayne place,
Jim was trying to put their path together in his head. Thinking first we went north then we turned west at the Cooper’s. After that we went northwest to the line shack. Then we went south following the creek. We should be about ten miles west of town and five miles north of the truck.
Going up a hill Albert cried out, “You learned to ride that thing yet?”
After the lessons with Suzy Jim thought he knew what he was doing. Jim yelled, “I got it.”
Albert yelled, “Then get up here with me.”
Jim gave the horse a kick and yelled, “Get going lazy ass.”
Albert laughed, “Watch out. Talking to him like that might get you bucked off.”
Catching up to Albert Jim saw the House. It was a mess and over grown with vines. The roof on one of the rooms had caved in and most of the windows were broken. You could tell no one had been there for a long time. Albert got down from his horse and announced, “Time to eat. See if you can gather up some wood for a fire.”
As Albert heated up the beans Jim confessed, “The Truck is about eight miles to the south west of us right now. If you want to take it back to town we can.”
Albert replied. “I was hoping you were thinking about the Iron Horse. Boy you hid it a long way from town. You’d never have made it to it in an emergency. Heck the entire town could burn down before you got to it.”
Jim replied, “I know, but we weren’t thinking of using it after we got here. Our thought was it was a time machine, and not that it was a weapon. It was you that opened our eyes to that possibility.”
Albert informed, “Beans are done, but one of us has to eat out of a can. I got two spoons, the pan, and a can. You want the pan or the can?”
Jim replied, “Give me the can.”
After they rode down the hill, and crossed the creek. They rode downstream to the truck. Jim looked at the truck and then at Albert and informed, “I’m not sure how we can do this. Get back on your horse Albert. I want to try something.”
Jim got the key from his pocket and opened the truck door. Then slipped the key in the ignition, and shut the door. He started the truck and looked at Albert and realized he was frozen. Jim let the truck worm up before turning it off. Then he rolled down the window, and put out his arm. With his arm hanging out Jim instructed Albert to ride up and take his hand. James looked at the horse next to the truck and shook his head mumbling, “That will never work it’s too dangerous. I can’t drive one handed with a horse like that.”
Albert hypothesized, “When I sit in the truck it works and I’m not touching it. My clothes are between me and the truck, but it works. Is there a part of the truck you can take off, and I can put in my pocket. Could we try that?”
Jim agreed, “Let’s try it. Let me see I never use the low range shift lever. I’ll take the knob off that.”
Jim got out and pulled the seat forward and took out a plastic tool case. Albert’s eyes opened wide when Jim opened the case and set it on the seat. Albert scanned all the sockets, ratchet, pliers, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, wrenches, hammer, and crescent wrench. Albert reached out and ran his finger over the needle nose pliers. Then he questioned, “You know how to use all of these?”
Jim replied, “Sure, this is nothing compared to what I have back where I came from. I told you I put every part on this thing.”
Taking the crescent wrench Jim loosened the lock nut on the shifter knob. He set the crescent wrench on the case, and screwed off the knob. Sliding back he saw Albert spinning the adjustment on the crescent wrench. Albert insisted, “Oh yes, I’m inventing this.”
Jim took the crescent wrench and snapped it back in the case and barked, “You can’t do that! It won’t be invented for another forty years or so.”
Albert wined, “Yah but something like that could make me rich.”
Jim insisted, “No, it’s going to make some immigrant rich in forty years.”
Jim requested, “Here put this ball in your pocket. Then go stand by your horse.”
Then Jim started the truck and Albert didn’t freeze. Jim yelled, “Yahoo! You’re a genius Albert. Now touch your horse.”
Albert took the rains and nothing happened, so he touched his horse on the neck and it came to life. Then he held his fist in the air and bellowed, “I have the power.”
Albert questioned, “What about your horse James? I can’t ride my horse and keep one hand on your horse all the way to town. That’s not possible.”
Jim assured, “I have an idea.”
Jim unfastened the back flap of the truck cover, and folded it up. Then he laid it over his horse. His horse came to life and Jim yell, “Oh yah baby!”
Albert questioned, “Are you having delusions of being an Angel?”
Jim responded, “You bet yah baby.”
Albert just shook his head and thought, To bad I can never tell anyone about this.
Albert tethered Jim’s horse to his and followed the truck to town.
In town everything stopped. Suzy was in the kitchen with Victoria when it stopped. She knew Jim might bring back the truck so she headed to the feed and seed. On her way time started. Walking by Mable’s shop Suzy saw Edna coming out of the store. Edna had George and Charles with her. The boys where caring supplies to their wagon, as Suzy dashed into Mable’s dress shop. Looking out the window Suzy heard Mable say, “What you looking at Suzy?”
Without turning around, Suzy replied, “I’m just watching Edna Hanson coming out of the store.”
Mable commented, “I saw her earlier with her boys. This is her shopping day.”
Edna and the boys drove off in the wagon and Suzy turned around. Then she questioned, “Oh that looks nice. It must be Helen’s dress because it’s purple.”
Mable apologized, “I’m sorry Helen’s dress was so much more than the larger girls, but purple material cost so much more.”
Suzy insisted, “It’s got to be purple. I’m planting a memory that this little girl well remember for a life time.”
Mable insisted, “White lace it is then.”
Then Mable froze in place. Suzy stomped her foot and cursed, “Damn it Jim quit starting and stopping the truck.”
Jim drove the truck out to the road and headed to town. Once on the road he shifted into second gear and let the truck idle a long at ten miles an hour. Jim thought, This is going to take over an hour and a half to get to town. Looking in the mirror Jim saw Albert was keeping up, so Jim just kicked back.
Back in town Suzy left the dress shop, and went down to the feed and seed. She realized it was going to take Jim over an hour to drive the truck back. That is if he was letting Albert keep up. Then it came to her. How can Jim touch Albert if he’s driving? They might need someone to bring back the horses, or Albert is frozen there waiting to come back. Suzy decided to check it out, so she went to the Livery. Then she went in a stall and saddled up a horse. The horse came in and out of a frozen state, as Suzy touched it. Then she got on and rode it out of the stall. Riding down the road to Lambert Suzy thought, Thangs just take too long to get done in this time.
Jim was coming upon the back of a wagon headed to Dention. It was fully loaded with goods, and right in the middle of the road. Jim had to drive off the road to get around it as he mumbled, “Looks like Hank’s getting a delivery today.”
Jim looked in the mirror as Albert went around the wagon. Then he saw a rider coming at him. Jim’s head started to spin and he thought. How can this be? No one can move around. Then it hit him it must be Suzy. Jim slowed to a stop, and sure enough it was Suzy. Riding up to Jim’s window Suzy exclaimed, “You screwed me starting the truck. I’m going to be disappearing in front of people.”
Jim insisted, “Will just have to work it out.”
Albert rode up and Suzy questioned, “What the hell why isn’t Albert and the horses frozen?”
Albert put his fist in the air and insisted, “Because I got the power baby.”
Suzy shook her head and replied, “Oh great now you’ve got Albert doing the baby thing. Get going I’ll ride back with Albert.”
Soon they had made it to the old Feed and Seed building. Jim got down from the truck and Albert met him at the door with the skeleton key. Inside they went and opened the bay door. It didn’t want to move at first, so Albert pulled up on the door with all his might. Then Jim pushed as the door drug on the ground. Albert complained, “Crap, I’m fixing that. We can’t have a door we can’t open. After the door was open Jim backed the truck in. Then they gathered in front of the truck. Suzy explained about disappearing in front of Victoria at the Boardinghouse then again at the dress shop.
Jim gave Suzy and Albert the plan, “We’ll move our horses out back, as Suzy puts the horse she stole back at Henry’s. Then she needs to go to the dress shop, as Albert watches from the street. When Albert see Suzy go in he tells me to turn off the truck. Then Suzy tells Mable she has to go, and goes out the door. When Albert sees Suzy out of the dress shop he will tell me to start the truck. Then Suzy will go to the Boardinghouse and stand by the outhouse and watch through the kitchen window. I will give Suzy about ten minutes to do that, as Albert and I close the door. Then I’ll turn off the truck. Suzy can head into the house and apologize saying she had to go. That is the best I can do. Do either of you have a better idea than that?”
Albert replied, “Works for me.”
Suzy informed, “I’m taking the horse back so Albert won’t have me hanged for a horse thief.”
Albert replied, “What horse?”
After they put everything back in motion Albert and Jim snuck out back to their horses. Then they rode off heading away from town. Making a big loop and ending up at the Boardinghouse. Setting on the porch Albert confessed, “Tomorrow I want to make another hitch for the tongue of your wagon. You know like the one on the plow.”
Jim question, “So I can hook up the wagon like I did the plow.”
Albert replied, “Yep, I want to try something.”
Victoria and Suzy came out and sat on the porch with Jim and Albert. Victoria questioned, “I thought you guys were supposed to be out chasing bad guys?”
Albert replied, “We are, we had to check here to make sure they didn’t come here. If they kidnap you and Suzy we’d starve to death. We already covered the west half of the county. I don’t think their around here.”
Victoria insisted, “If you find them bring them back here. Suzy and I could use a vacation. We could put them to work doing the cooking, cleaning, dishes, and laundry.”
Albert laughed, “If they knew how to do that stuff. They wouldn’t be running around robbing people, making them cook for them, and whatever else they need.”
Albert stood up and announced, “We better go Jim before they have us doing all that stuff.”
Walking off Jim informed, “You wouldn’t want me to cook anyway, but on the other hand if you need some food turned into charcoal. Just let me know.”
They road down to the Blacksmith shop and opened it up. Albert insisted, “The clock in my head is all messed up. I’m thinking it is two or three hours later than it is. Go ahead and start the fire. I’ll dig out what I need for the hitch, and to make new hinges for the Feed and Seed door. I got to fix that.”
An hour later the ringing sound of Albert pounding iron echoed in the air. Throwing a hot peace of iron in the water bucket Albert announced, “That’s parts for one hinge. Soon he had made another, and was working on bending the hoop for the hitch. Jim pumped the bellows a few times, and went out and looked up and down the street. It seemed to be a slow day for town. There were not a lot of people moving around. Looking across the street he saw Rebecca was the only one in the Horseshoe. Witch was normal, it was too late for supper and too early for dinner.
Waiting for a peace of iron to heat up Albert questioned, “What do you think about spending some time with the Iron Horse in the morning.”
Jim replied, “I’ve been trying to think of way’s we could use it, but I haven’t been able to come up with anything. I hope Suzy is doing better with her Crow.”
Albert added, “I was thinking of making a neck shackle for the Witch. I just don’t know if that will be an option. I could never take her to court for casting a spell, and I have no proof that she has killed anyone.”
Jim replied, “That’s why Suzy and I believe we have to kill the Witch. If you said we had to kill her to stop her from killing someone. That would not be a lie, and everyone takes the word of a lawman. A lawman does not have to explain what happened. That’s what a witness does, but we would be the witness. Does that make any since to you Albert?”
Albert agreed, “I think we can work with that, if I was the one to do it to protect someone. Then it would never be questioned, because that’s my job.”
Jim went on, “Now we’re still stuck with the fact that to kill her we have to hang and burn her.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Albert pulled the hot iron from the fire and picked up his hammer. Pounding the steel Albert mumbled, “I didn’t hear that. My ears are ringing.”
Jim shook his head and walked back to the door. He looked back down the street. It was as dead as Sunday morning. Then he heard the sound of a hot peace of iron sizzling in the water bucket. Looking back he hears Albert say, “Well that’s done. Tomorrow we put new hinges on the door and check out the hitch. I think we can take the horses back well the fire dies down, and see how Henry is doing.”
Next door at the Livery they turned the horses over to the stable boy. Henry asked, “How did the ride go?”
Jim replied, “We made it all the way down to the Saloon, and got two bottles of Whisky. Then we went out back and had a drinking contest. Halfway through the drinking we were unable to walk, so we decided to get on the horses. We were unable to get our butts off the ground, so we gave that up. Then we drank the rest of the Whisky. Now we’re here. Where ever this is.”
Henry replied, “You need to stagger around when you tell that story.”
Albert insisted, “We checked everyplace on the west-side of the county.”
Jim requested, “You think it’s time to lock up Albert?”
Albert replied, “I don’t know you’re the rich guy with the pocket watch. What time do you have?”
Jim pulled his watch from his pocket and announced, “Oh crap it got all screwed up again. By my watch we’ve missed dinner by two hours.”
Albert couldn’t hold it back and busted up laughing, “You’ll have to set it by the house clock again.”
Henry pulled out his watch and informed. “Its five forty James we got another twenty minutes tell quitting time. If you would keep your hand out of your pocket, and stop playing with your watch. That wouldn’t keep happening.”
Jim set his watch and whined, “I know, old habits are hard to brake.”
Albert insisted, “Let’s go clean up the shop and lock up”
Jim pulled the hitch from the water bucket, and set it on the anvil. Then he poured the water on the hot coals in the Forge. Steam bellowed up in the air as it sizzled and water droplets bounced around. It was like life was moving in slow motion. There was an explosion and a hot coal flew out of the Forge right at Jim. He turned to the side and leaned back as it flew past him. Jim thought what the hell just happened.
Albert yelled, “You OK? I’ve never seen anyone move like that in my life. You were just a blur moving out of the way.”
Jim replied, “Well that scared the hell out of me.”
Albert insisted, “You have to pour the water slow or it can explode like that. Sorry I thought you knew.”
Jim sat down to clear his head. He now knew time slowed down to give him time to react, but how did it happen. Jim thought, Is this something I can do, or was it just a freak thing.
Jim stood up and insisted, “Albert throw something at me.”
Albert picked up a horseshoe and tossed it at Jim. Jim caught the horseshoe and tossed it back and he insisted. “No throw it at me like you’re trying to hurt me. If I get hurt that’s on me.”
Albert questioned, “You sure James?”
Jim demanded. “Throw the sun of a bitch Albert!”
Albert threw the horseshoe and it tumbled through the air at Jim. Feeling time moving in slow motion Jim turned to one side, as the horseshoe flew by. It hit the wall with a thud.
Jim yelled, “Again, harder and faster!”
Albert picked up another horseshoe and flung it at Jim. Time slowed down again and Jim moved out of the way. The horseshoe hit the wall as Henry watched from the doorway. Henry questioned, “Is this what you do over here all day? Throw horseshoes at each other. You should be putting them on horses.”
Jim and Albert went out and swung the doors closed, and locked up.
Walking home Henry commented, “You’re pretty good at that Jim. You must have played a lot of dodgeball as a kid.”
Jim replied, “You only have to get hit in the face one time to get good. Well for me anyway.”
Henry teased, “Well the bad guys won’t be throwing horseshoes. They’ll be throwing bullets at you.”
Jim thought, I wonder if I could dodge a bullet.
Albert insisted, “Don’t even think about it James.”
Jim laughed, “To late Albert. That already ran through my mind.”
Henry insisted, “You two have gone off the deep end.”
Walking by the store they were joined by Emily. She informed, “Your seed order came in today Jim. Is the ground even close to being ready?”
Jim responded, “You tell Hank there is going to be a crop if God’s welling.”
Walking up on the porch Benjamin teased, “Oh the people that have to work for a living are here.”
Emily went into the house as Henry disclosed, “Not Albert and James. They just throw horseshoes at each other all day.”
Jim replied, “Henry isn’t any better. He horses around all day, and calls it work.”
Benjamin laughed, “Good one James. There is something I need to talk to you about. The woodshed is getting really low. Victoria hasn’t said anything, but the long cold winter took its toll on our wood supply. My dad sent me a bank draft in my letter, so here’s five dollars for a load of wood. That is if someone can get it for us.”
Henry insisted, “I’ll pitch in for one.”
Jim replied, “Me too”
Rebecca came up on the porch and everyone stopped talking. She informed, “I’m not really that bad that you have to stop talking when I walk up. I don’t put everything I hear in the paper you know.”
Albert stepped close to Rebecca and whispered, “We’re almost out of wood, and we were talking about pitching in to get some for the woodshed.”
Rebecca insisted, “I got a bonus for breaking the robbery story. I can pitch in a few dollars.”
Henry confided, “Thanks Rebecca.” Then he asked, “What about you Albert?”
Albert replied, “The only thing I have is gold. I guess I’ll have to go to the assayer office, and cash it in.”
Henry explained, “He charged me 2% on mine, and it cost me 80¢.”
Albert complained, “That’s our government for yah.”
Suzy called out the Kitchen window, “You coming in to eat?”
Coming to the dinner table Jim saw the paper on the end of the table. He realized it was Thursday May, 28 and wondered where the week had gone. He thought everything was going slow. Yet two weeks had already passed. Looking at the headline he saw, “Commercial Barbed Wire Patent Issued to Joseph F. Glidden of DeKalb, Illinois.”
Later that night with Henry enjoying his pipe, Benjamin at the dining room table, and everyone else in their room Jim and Suzy went to bed. Jim questioned, “Have you tried anything with the crow yet?”
Suzy replied, “I haven’t had a chance. There’s always someone around.”
Jim informed, “I’m learning to slowdown time. I found out I can slow down time and move around. I had Albert throwing horseshoes at me as fast and hard as he could, and he couldn’t hit me. Tomorrow morning we’re going to test some things with the truck. Maybe you could work with the bird then,”
Suzy yawned, “Sounds good to me.”
Then they drifted off to sleep. Suddenly Jim awoke with Suzy shaking him. He slowly opened his eyes as Suzy questioned, “What do you mean you can slowdown time?”
Jim replied, “Well I’m not sure if time is slowing down, or I’m speeding up. All I know is that it happens. Can I get some sleep?”
Suzy let go of Jim and laid back on her pillow. Drifting off to sleep she dreamed about Jim. He was moving from one side of the room to the other. He went so fast all she saw was a streak. Then he disappeared and was outside looking in the window. She asked how he was doing that. Jim told her he just thought about it and it happened. Then Jim appeared next to her and took her hand. In a flash they were standing on the roof. Suzy was wobbling around, so Jim moved them to the street. They were now in the street looking at the Boardinghouse. Suzy asked, “How far can we go this way?”
Then the dream faded away and Suzy heard Victoria in the kitchen starting the fire. Suzy slipped from the bed and yawned. She got dressed and went out to start her day. In the kitchen Victoria informed, “It keeps getting warmer every day. Soon we’ll have to fix everything in here, and move our cooking out to the stove in the bathhouse. This stove will make the house to hot, and we won’t be able to sleep in here.”
At the breakfast table Henry commented, “Its Friday that means it’s going to be busy. It seems a lot of people come to town on Friday.”
Emily insisted, “It’s the same for the store. We do most of our business on Friday and Saturday morning.”
Jim added, “I was hoping the pump and pipe would have come in this week. At least I got the seed for the Wilson’s farm.”
Emily replied, “It should be in next week for sure James.”
After breakfast walking to work Henry questioned, “What’s that bulge in your pocket Albert?”
Albert replied, “Only women notice that. You need to keep it to yourself.”
Jim snickered as Henry shook his head. Turning off at the Blacksmith shop Albert mumbled, “You best get to horsing around Henry.”
After opening the Blacksmith shop Albert complained, “I want to start checking things out. All this waiting is killing me.”
Jim replied, “It won’t be that long Albert. Suzy said as soon as the dishes were done she’d be down.”
Albert picked up the hitch he made for the wagon, and insisted, “Let’s put this on the wagon.”
After affixing the hitch they saw Suzy heading down the street. Albert pulled the Skelton key from his pocket, and headed to the Feed and Seed. Jim slowed down time and in a flash he was standing next to Albert. Opening the door Albert blurted, “Damn James, I didn’t know you could do that.”
At the truck Albert requested, “You think I could start it?”
Opening the truck door Jim stepped back and informed, “Then climb up in there.”
Albert got in the truck as his heart raced. Then he started to tingle all over. He was filled with excitement and fear at the same time. Then Jim handed him the key and instructed, “Put the key in that slot right there with the jagged side up. That’s it now turn it to the right one click. See the lights on the dash came on. That means it’s ready to start. Now see this pedal down here. That’s the gas and it speeds up the motor when pushed. Now as soon as the motor starts let go of the key. It will spring back all by itself. Now turn the key until you hear it start and let go.”
Albert’s was shaking, but he grabbed the key and turned it. The sound of the starter scared him and he let go of the key. Jim calmly instructed, “That is all right that’s just the starter. Try it again.”
Albert tried it again and the motor roared to life, and he let go of the key. Emotions raced through his body, as Jim slapped him on the shoulder and informed, “Good job Albert. We’ll have you running this thing in no time. Now get down and help me open the door.”
They opened the door and Jim pulled the truck out into the street. Then Albert went and got the hinges from the blacksmith shop, and put them by the door. Suzy questioned, “What do you want me to do?”
Jim replied, “See what power the Crow can give you.”
Albert stood behind Suzy as she put out her arm and cawed. The crow came down and landed on her head. She felt a tingling all over her body, and electricity flowing through her hands. Looking down she saw little tiny lightning bolts shooting from her fingers. Suzy pointed her finger at a fence post next to the Livery, and watched a huge bolt of energy flow from her finger. It shot across the street to the post. Then the post started pulsating and exploded with a boom.
Albert gasped, “Son of a bitch you’re going to have to pay Henry for that post.”
Then she turned her hand up and looked at her palm, and watched a ball of bright flashing colored light appear and start to grow. When it was the size of a softball she threw it down the road out of town. Then she looked at the frozen horse on the other side of the missing fencepost. The ball of bright flashing colored light turned in midair, and shot straight at the horse. Then it exploded surrounding the horse with flashes of light like millions of tiny flickering stars. The horse jumped in the air and ran right at the fence. It jumped the fence and ran down the road out of town.
Albert exclaimed, “Oh crap, you just chased off one of Henry’s horses. Quit doing things to Henry’s place. He’s going to get all pissed off when we start time back up.”
Jim put his hand on Suzy’s shoulder and whispered, “You’ll get the hang of it. Just keep practicing and you’ll get it. Come on Albert lets hook the wagon up to the truck.”
Then they went and got the wagon next to the Livery. Jim took the tongue and Albert pushed from the back. Jim opened the Pintle-hitch on the truck and dropped the ring on the wagon tongue over it. Then locked it down and said. “Get in Albert.”
Albert got in the back of the wagon and pulled the knob from his pocket, and handed it to Jim. Jim took the ball as he heard a Boom! Then he heard Suzy say, “Sorry.” Looking back Jim saw Albert was frozen in place. Jim touched him and handed the ball back to Albert.
Albert questioned, “Did it work?”
Jim was staring at Suzy as she razed up in the air. There were thousands of tiny flickering stars swirling under her feet. She just kept going up and up. Then she stopped about twenty feet in the air. A ball of bright flashing colored light appeared in her hand. Then she threw the ball of bright flashing colored light down to the ground. It exploded making a big hole in the road.
Jim cursed, “Damn it Suzan quit destroying things. We half to fix this stuff you know.”
Suzy floated back to the ground saying, “Sorry, I can’t help it I have better powers than you.”
Albert requested, “Let’s try our guns?”
Jim replied, “OK you first. We’ll shoot at that tree next to the Feed and Seed.”
Albert pulled his gun and pointed it at the tree. Then he pulled the trigger. A Puff of smoke came out and the bullet stopped at the end of the barrel. Albert holstered his gun with the puff of smoke and bullet hanging in the air. Then Jim tried it and had the same result. Suzy generated a small ball of bright flashing colored light the size of a golf ball, and threw it at the bullets. There was a, “Boom.” Then the bullets shot into the tree exploding the bark off half the tree.
Albert jumped back and yelled, “That there is some bad ass.. well you know.”
Jim announced, “Watch this.”
Then he disappeared and reappeared about three hundred feet down the road. Then he did it again and again until he was out of sight. Then in a flash he was standing next to them again. Jim divulged, “The horse is about a half mile down the road grazing. If someone gets a lead rope I’ll take them down there.”
Jim shook his head and walked back to the door. He looked back down the street. It was as dead as Sunday morning. Then he heard the sound of a hot peace of iron sizzling in the water bucket. Looking back he hears Albert say, “Well that’s done. Tomorrow we put new hinges on the door and check out the hitch. I think we can take the horses back well the fire dies down, and see how Henry is doing.”
Next door at the Livery they turned the horses over to the stable boy. Henry asked, “How did the ride go?”
Jim replied, “We made it all the way down to the Saloon, and got two bottles of Whisky. Then we went out back and had a drinking contest. Halfway through the drinking we were unable to walk, so we decided to get on the horses. We were unable to get our butts off the ground, so we gave that up. Then we drank the rest of the Whisky. Now we’re here. Where ever this is.”
Henry replied, “You need to stagger around when you tell that story.”
Albert insisted, “We checked everyplace on the west-side of the county.”
Jim requested, “You think it’s time to lock up Albert?”
Albert replied, “I don’t know you’re the rich guy with the pocket watch. What time do you have?”
Jim pulled his watch from his pocket and announced, “Oh crap it got all screwed up again. By my watch we’ve missed dinner by two hours.”
Albert couldn’t hold it back and busted up laughing, “You’ll have to set it by the house clock again.”
Henry pulled out his watch and informed. “Its five forty James we got another twenty minutes tell quitting time. If you would keep your hand out of your pocket, and stop playing with your watch. That wouldn’t keep happening.”
Jim set his watch and whined, “I know, old habits are hard to brake.”
Albert insisted, “Let’s go clean up the shop and lock up”
Jim pulled the hitch from the water bucket, and set it on the anvil. Then he poured the water on the hot coals in the Forge. Steam bellowed up in the air as it sizzled and water droplets bounced around. It was like life was moving in slow motion. There was an explosion and a hot coal flew out of the Forge right at Jim. He turned to the side and leaned back as it flew past him. Jim thought what the hell just happened.
Albert yelled, “You OK? I’ve never seen anyone move like that in my life. You were just a blur moving out of the way.”
Jim replied, “Well that scared the hell out of me.”
Albert insisted, “You have to pour the water slow or it can explode like that. Sorry I thought you knew.”
Jim sat down to clear his head. He now knew time slowed down to give him time to react, but how did it happen. Jim thought, Is this something I can do, or was it just a freak thing.
Jim stood up and insisted, “Albert throw something at me.”
Albert picked up a horseshoe and tossed it at Jim. Jim caught the horseshoe and tossed it back and he insisted. “No throw it at me like you’re trying to hurt me. If I get hurt that’s on me.”
Albert questioned, “You sure James?”
Jim demanded. “Throw the sun of a bitch Albert!”
Albert threw the horseshoe and it tumbled through the air at Jim. Feeling time moving in slow motion Jim turned to one side, as the horseshoe flew by. It hit the wall with a thud.
Jim yelled, “Again, harder and faster!”
Albert picked up another horseshoe and flung it at Jim. Time slowed down again and Jim moved out of the way. The horseshoe hit the wall as Henry watched from the doorway. Henry questioned, “Is this what you do over here all day? Throw horseshoes at each other. You should be putting them on horses.”
Jim and Albert went out and swung the doors closed, and locked up.
Walking home Henry commented, “You’re pretty good at that Jim. You must have played a lot of dodgeball as a kid.”
Jim replied, “You only have to get hit in the face one time to get good. Well for me anyway.”
Henry teased, “Well the bad guys won’t be throwing horseshoes. They’ll be throwing bullets at you.”
Jim thought, I wonder if I could dodge a bullet.
Albert insisted, “Don’t even think about it James.”
Jim laughed, “To late Albert. That already ran through my mind.”
Henry insisted, “You two have gone off the deep end.”
Walking by the store they were joined by Emily. She informed, “Your seed order came in today Jim. Is the ground even close to being ready?”
Jim responded, “You tell Hank there is going to be a crop if God’s welling.”
Walking up on the porch Benjamin teased, “Oh the people that have to work for a living are here.”
Emily went into the house as Henry disclosed, “Not Albert and James. They just throw horseshoes at each other all day.”
Jim replied, “Henry isn’t any better. He horses around all day, and calls it work.”
Benjamin laughed, “Good one James. There is something I need to talk to you about. The woodshed is getting really low. Victoria hasn’t said anything, but the long cold winter took its toll on our wood supply. My dad sent me a bank draft in my letter, so here’s five dollars for a load of wood. That is if someone can get it for us.”
Henry insisted, “I’ll pitch in for one.”
Jim replied, “Me too”
Rebecca came up on the porch and everyone stopped talking. She informed, “I’m not really that bad that you have to stop talking when I walk up. I don’t put everything I hear in the paper you know.”
Albert stepped close to Rebecca and whispered, “We’re almost out of wood, and we were talking about pitching in to get some for the woodshed.”
Rebecca insisted, “I got a bonus for breaking the robbery story. I can pitch in a few dollars.”
Henry confided, “Thanks Rebecca.” Then he asked, “What about you Albert?”
Albert replied, “The only thing I have is gold. I guess I’ll have to go to the assayer office, and cash it in.”
Henry explained, “He charged me 2% on mine, and it cost me 80¢.”
Albert complained, “That’s our government for yah.”
Suzy called out the Kitchen window, “You coming in to eat?”
Coming to the dinner table Jim saw the paper on the end of the table. He realized it was Thursday May, 28 and wondered where the week had gone. He thought everything was going slow. Yet two weeks had already passed. Looking at the headline he saw, “Commercial Barbed Wire Patent Issued to Joseph F. Glidden of DeKalb, Illinois.”
Later that night with Henry enjoying his pipe, Benjamin at the dining room table, and everyone else in their room Jim and Suzy went to bed. Jim questioned, “Have you tried anything with the crow yet?”
Suzy replied, “I haven’t had a chance. There’s always someone around.”
Jim informed, “I’m learning to slowdown time. I found out I can slow down time and move around. I had Albert throwing horseshoes at me as fast and hard as he could, and he couldn’t hit me. Tomorrow morning we’re going to test some things with the truck. Maybe you could work with the bird then,”
Suzy yawned, “Sounds good to me.”
Then they drifted off to sleep. Suddenly Jim awoke with Suzy shaking him. He slowly opened his eyes as Suzy questioned, “What do you mean you can slowdown time?”
Jim replied, “Well I’m not sure if time is slowing down, or I’m speeding up. All I know is that it happens. Can I get some sleep?”
Suzy let go of Jim and laid back on her pillow. Drifting off to sleep she dreamed about Jim. He was moving from one side of the room to the other. He went so fast all she saw was a streak. Then he disappeared and was outside looking in the window. She asked how he was doing that. Jim told her he just thought about it and it happened. Then Jim appeared next to her and took her hand. In a flash they were standing on the roof. Suzy was wobbling around, so Jim moved them to the street. They were now in the street looking at the Boardinghouse. Suzy asked, “How far can we go this way?”
Then the dream faded away and Suzy heard Victoria in the kitchen starting the fire. Suzy slipped from the bed and yawned. She got dressed and went out to start her day. In the kitchen Victoria informed, “It keeps getting warmer every day. Soon we’ll have to fix everything in here, and move our cooking out to the stove in the bathhouse. This stove will make the house to hot, and we won’t be able to sleep in here.”
At the breakfast table Henry commented, “Its Friday that means it’s going to be busy. It seems a lot of people come to town on Friday.”
Emily insisted, “It’s the same for the store. We do most of our business on Friday and Saturday morning.”
Jim added, “I was hoping the pump and pipe would have come in this week. At least I got the seed for the Wilson’s farm.”
Emily replied, “It should be in next week for sure James.”
After breakfast walking to work Henry questioned, “What’s that bulge in your pocket Albert?”
Albert replied, “Only women notice that. You need to keep it to yourself.”
Jim snickered as Henry shook his head. Turning off at the Blacksmith shop Albert mumbled, “You best get to horsing around Henry.”
After opening the Blacksmith shop Albert complained, “I want to start checking things out. All this waiting is killing me.”
Jim replied, “It won’t be that long Albert. Suzy said as soon as the dishes were done she’d be down.”
Albert picked up the hitch he made for the wagon, and insisted, “Let’s put this on the wagon.”
After affixing the hitch they saw Suzy heading down the street. Albert pulled the Skelton key from his pocket, and headed to the Feed and Seed. Jim slowed down time and in a flash he was standing next to Albert. Opening the door Albert blurted, “Damn James, I didn’t know you could do that.”
At the truck Albert requested, “You think I could start it?”
Opening the truck door Jim stepped back and informed, “Then climb up in there.”
Albert got in the truck as his heart raced. Then he started to tingle all over. He was filled with excitement and fear at the same time. Then Jim handed him the key and instructed, “Put the key in that slot right there with the jagged side up. That’s it now turn it to the right one click. See the lights on the dash came on. That means it’s ready to start. Now see this pedal down here. That’s the gas and it speeds up the motor when pushed. Now as soon as the motor starts let go of the key. It will spring back all by itself. Now turn the key until you hear it start and let go.”
Albert’s was shaking, but he grabbed the key and turned it. The sound of the starter scared him and he let go of the key. Jim calmly instructed, “That is all right that’s just the starter. Try it again.”
Albert tried it again and the motor roared to life, and he let go of the key. Emotions raced through his body, as Jim slapped him on the shoulder and informed, “Good job Albert. We’ll have you running this thing in no time. Now get down and help me open the door.”
They opened the door and Jim pulled the truck out into the street. Then Albert went and got the hinges from the blacksmith shop, and put them by the door. Suzy questioned, “What do you want me to do?”
Jim replied, “See what power the Crow can give you.”
Albert stood behind Suzy as she put out her arm and cawed. The crow came down and landed on her head. She felt a tingling all over her body, and electricity flowing through her hands. Looking down she saw little tiny lightning bolts shooting from her fingers. Suzy pointed her finger at a fence post next to the Livery, and watched a huge bolt of energy flow from her finger. It shot across the street to the post. Then the post started pulsating and exploded with a boom.
Albert gasped, “Son of a bitch you’re going to have to pay Henry for that post.”
Then she turned her hand up and looked at her palm, and watched a ball of bright flashing colored light appear and start to grow. When it was the size of a softball she threw it down the road out of town. Then she looked at the frozen horse on the other side of the missing fencepost. The ball of bright flashing colored light turned in midair, and shot straight at the horse. Then it exploded surrounding the horse with flashes of light like millions of tiny flickering stars. The horse jumped in the air and ran right at the fence. It jumped the fence and ran down the road out of town.
Albert exclaimed, “Oh crap, you just chased off one of Henry’s horses. Quit doing things to Henry’s place. He’s going to get all pissed off when we start time back up.”
Jim put his hand on Suzy’s shoulder and whispered, “You’ll get the hang of it. Just keep practicing and you’ll get it. Come on Albert lets hook the wagon up to the truck.”
Then they went and got the wagon next to the Livery. Jim took the tongue and Albert pushed from the back. Jim opened the Pintle-hitch on the truck and dropped the ring on the wagon tongue over it. Then locked it down and said. “Get in Albert.”
Albert got in the back of the wagon and pulled the knob from his pocket, and handed it to Jim. Jim took the ball as he heard a Boom! Then he heard Suzy say, “Sorry.” Looking back Jim saw Albert was frozen in place. Jim touched him and handed the ball back to Albert.
Albert questioned, “Did it work?”
Jim was staring at Suzy as she razed up in the air. There were thousands of tiny flickering stars swirling under her feet. She just kept going up and up. Then she stopped about twenty feet in the air. A ball of bright flashing colored light appeared in her hand. Then she threw the ball of bright flashing colored light down to the ground. It exploded making a big hole in the road.
Jim cursed, “Damn it Suzan quit destroying things. We half to fix this stuff you know.”
Suzy floated back to the ground saying, “Sorry, I can’t help it I have better powers than you.”
Albert requested, “Let’s try our guns?”
Jim replied, “OK you first. We’ll shoot at that tree next to the Feed and Seed.”
Albert pulled his gun and pointed it at the tree. Then he pulled the trigger. A Puff of smoke came out and the bullet stopped at the end of the barrel. Albert holstered his gun with the puff of smoke and bullet hanging in the air. Then Jim tried it and had the same result. Suzy generated a small ball of bright flashing colored light the size of a golf ball, and threw it at the bullets. There was a, “Boom.” Then the bullets shot into the tree exploding the bark off half the tree.
Albert jumped back and yelled, “That there is some bad ass.. well you know.”
Jim announced, “Watch this.”
Then he disappeared and reappeared about three hundred feet down the road. Then he did it again and again until he was out of sight. Then in a flash he was standing next to them again. Jim divulged, “The horse is about a half mile down the road grazing. If someone gets a lead rope I’ll take them down there.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
Suzy replied, “I did it, so I’ll get the lead rope.”
Then she went in to the Livery and came back out with a rope. Jim took her hand and they disappeared. At the horse Jim announced, “Cool that worked. I’ll see you back in town.”
Then in a flash Jim was back with Albert. Jim questioned, “You ready to do the hinges Albert?”
Albert replied, “We need to get the ladder behind the Blacksmith shop.”
Jim took Albert’s hand and in a flash they were standing behind the Blacksmith shop. Jim took one end of the ladder and Albert got the other end. At the feed and seed Albert explained, “We need to get a board to use for a lever, so we can pick up the end of the door. We also need some kind of a block to put under the door. After they blocked up the door and put on the hinges. They put the Wagon back and parked the truck in the Feed and Seed. Then Albert sent Jim to get Henry’s wheelbarrow to fix the hole in the street. After that Albert took the block out from under the door, and Swung it shout saying, “Now that is how a door should work.”
They all gathered in front of the truck. Albert question, “What’s the time Jim?”
Jim pulled out his watch and announced, “Two hours and twenty minutes.”
Albert continued, “Set you watch back to the right time, and Suzy has to tell Henry something about the fencepost. Suzan you need to head over to see Henry. Jim and I will turn off the truck to start time. Then lock up and meat you at the Blacksmith Shop.”
Suzy replied, “I’m on it.”
Albert followed Suzy to the door. Then watched as she cross the street and said, “Go ahead James.”
Jim turned off the truck as Albert watched Suzy go in the Livery. Albert questioned, “I wonder what she’ll say to Henry about the post?”
Over at the Livery Suzy found Henry and explained, “I saw one of the fence posts was gone.”
Henry question, “Where’s it at?”
Suzy replied, “Out front by the road.”
Henry insisted, “Let’s go look at it.”
Suzy led Henry to the spot. Henry exclaimed, “Oh hell I never seen anything like this.”
Suzy looked at the splinters scattered everywhere and hypothesized, “Looks like it exploded.”
Henry divulged, “I guess I’ll just have to add this to my list of strange things that happen around this town. Benjamin would be blaming it on the Witch.”
Suzy went to the Blacksmith shop, and Henry went back inside. At the Blacksmith shop Suzy wiped her hand across her forehead and said, “All taken care of.”
Albert looked to Suzy and explained, “We are about out of wood at the house. Last night we all decided to pitch in and buy some firewood. I think we should do it next week. I was thinking if we used the truck the three of us could do a load in about an hour. That truck is so big I bet we could put two cords on it at one time.”
Jim and Suzy looked at each other as Jim informed, “You know how I feel about this. It’s all up to you sweetie.”
Suzy replied, “You just had to put that sweetie in there. How can I not give love to Victoria after all she dose for me? I’m in, let’s do it.”
Jim questioned, “You want to walk up to the house with me Suzan.”
Suzy said sure and they were off.
Down at Turners Guns and Hardware two men went in to get Bullets. When Oliver turned to get the box from the shelf the man jumped over the counter. Then he hit Oliver in the head knocking him out. Two men dragged him into the backroom then tied and gagged him. One man went to the back door and let two more men in, and the other locked the front door and turned around the closed sign.
After taking everything they wanted. They rode their horses to the back of the Store. One man went in over the loading dock into the back room. He hit Hank in the back of the head with the butt of his gun. Then he went to the dock door and waved for the rest to come in.
One man peeked through the curtain, and saw Emily talking to Mable. Meanwhile the other men were tying and gagging Hank. Finely Emily said, “That will be 60¢ for the lace Mable.”
Mable pulled the change from her change purse and assured, “See you at dinner tonight.”
The man peeking through the curtain waved his hand as the bell over the door rang. Then they all rushed in and grabbed Emily. One man put his hand over her mouth and another grabbed her legs. One went and locked the door and turned the sign around. The forth man open the cash register, as the two drug Emily to the back room and tied and gagged her. One man ran his hand up her leg saying oh she’s so soft. The other said, “Knock it off there will be plenty of time for that once we dump this town.”
Going back out front the man at the cash register bitched, “There was only about $30 in the register.”
Another man found the cash box under the counter and exclaimed, “Jack pot. Found the money box. I need something to knock the lock off.”
One man went into the backroom and came back with a pry-bar for opening crates. Handing it to the man on the floor he took it and slipped it through the lock. It popped off. Then he opened the box, and there laid the gold bar on top of a stack of cash. They emptied the box and went back out to their horses.
Then they went down to the Horseshoe, and tied their horses to the hitching post out front. They went straight to the kitchen with their guns drawn. Then they hollered, “Where’s the cash box?”
The cook announced. “I got it right here!”
Then he jumped in front of the door between the kitchen and dining room with a shotgun. Pulling the trigger there was a boom! Then one of the men flew across the kitchen. The other men opened fire. The cook’s body shook and wobbled backwards into the dining room, as blood sprayed on the walls and floor.
Across the street Albert heard the gun shots, and went and looked out the door. He saw three men run out and jump on their horses. Then it hit him they robbed the Horseshoe. He grabbed his gun and shot at them, but it was too late. They were too far away, so he walked across the street. Then he saw Rebecca slumped over the table through the window. He ran and looked in and there was blood everywhere.
Albert went into a panic and ran to the Feed and Seed next door. Pulling the skeleton key from his pocket it dropped to the loading dock. Albert yelled, “No, no not now!”
Finely he got the key in the door and turned it. Then he shoved the door open with a bang, and ran to the truck. Reaching behind the gas tank he felt around as he thought, James told me it was back here why can’t I find it? Then his fingers hit the little metal box. He pulled it out and slid it open. Taking the key he dropped the box to the ground. Taking a deep breath he slipped the key in the door and turned it. The lock popped up and he pulled out the key. Opening the door he jumped in the truck and slipped the key in the slot. Then he gave it a turn saying, “Come on come on.” As the starter growled then there was a pop and another pop and the motor took off. Then Albert fell back in the seat.
Suzy and Jim were talking to Benjamin when he froze. Suzy looked at Jim and insisted, “You told him where the spare key was. Didn’t you?”
Jim jumped up and replied, “I’m on it.” Then he disappeared and reappeared next to the truck. Looking at Albert Jim questioned, “What’s going on?”
Albert was hysterical and babbled, “They killed her! The bastards shot the place up and killed Rebecca! I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t get here fast enough?”
Jim put out his hand saying, “Come on down Albert we can do this. Now tell me where we need to go.”
Albert whimpered, “The Horseshoe.”
Jim took his hand and in a flash they were standing in the Horseshoe. Jim gasped and hugged Albert and whispered, “You did good Albert we just have to work this out. Now you stay right here. I’m going to get Suzan and I’ll be right back.”
Showing up back at the Boardinghouse Jim took Suzy’s hand and pulled her to her feet and they disappeared. Then they reappeared in the Horseshoe next to Albert. Suzy saw the cook on the floor and the man plastered all over the back wall of the kitchen, and the waitress was curled up on the floor with her hands wrapped around her head. Suzy gasped, “Oh my God.”
Albert was still hysterical and babbling, “I couldn’t save her. I got to kill the bastards please let me get them.”
Suzy turned and saw Rebecca slumped over the table and cried out, “Oh no!”
Then she grabbed Albert and squeezed him tight whispering, “We have to deal with this. You did good Albert. You stopped time, and now we can think everything through. This gives us all the time we need to do what needs to be done. Now we need to work out a plan. Does anyone know if Rebecca is still alive?”
Jim replied, “Not as far as I know.”
Suzy related, “Then I’m going to touch her to find out.”
Suzy touched Rebecca and blood oozed out of her arm, so she jerked her hand away. Then she announced, “OK she is still alive. Now we need to know where the closest doctor is. How about it Albert where’s the closest doctor?”
Albert him and hawed for a minute then said, “Dr. Patrick Heanley in Lambert.”
Suzy grabbed Jim’s arm and gave it a tug as she said, “Outside now!”
Jim took Suzy’s hand and they were outside the door. Suzy insisted, “Quit doing that. I can walk out the door. Now about Albert he has lost it. I think we should take the shifter knob from him.”
Jim snapped back, “No! Listen to me. If it was me you would be the same way, and if it was you like that I’d be worse than Albert. What you need to know is Benjamin told me Rebecca sneaks in Albert’s room every night. They act like they don’t get along, but their sleeping together.”
Suzy pulled the door open and went to Albert. She took his muscular arm and whispered, “It’s going to be all right. What we have to do now is get the Wagon hooked to the truck. Get a big flat board to lay Rebecca on so we can carry her to the wagon without touching her. If we touch her she will start bleeding again. She has already lost a lot of blood, but I’m sure she’s fine. It always looks a lot worse than it is. Think of spilling a cup of coffee on the floor. It spreads out and covers a big area. A person can lose that much and recover. We got this now let’s do it.”
Albert flipped over a table and broke off the legs and barked, “A flat board. Jim back the Iron Horse to the Wagon and I’ll hook it up.”
Jim disappeared and then the Feed and Seed door flew open. The truck drove out as Albert crossed the street. Jim backed the truck to the Wagon until he heard Albert yell, “Good.” Then Albert dropped the ring on the hitch and latched it. Albert started walking back to the Restaurant, and Jim drove the truck so the back of the wagon was by the door.
Inside Suzy had moved all the tables and chairs to the far side of the room. Jim and Albert came in and Suzy instructed, “I think if one of you pushes the chair away from the wall, and the other pulls the table out. We can lay this table top behind her. Then tip the table and chair on to it. Then lift the table off her, and carry her to the Wagon.”
Albert insisted, “I’ll get the chair.”
Jim replied, “Then I got the table.”
They moved the table out about six feet and Jim instructed, “I think Albert should put the table top up on end behind Rebecca’s chair, and let it down as we tip up the table.”
Suzy got on one side of the table and Jim got on the other. Then they tipped it back until Albert set his end on the floor. Then Jim and Suzy moved the table to the other side of the room. Suzy propped the door open and looked at Rebecca bent all weird in the chair. Then she helped Jim with the end of the table top by the door, and Albert lifted the other end. Then slowly they carried her to the Wagon. Albert put his end in first so her head would be up front. Then Jim and Suzy pushed their end in.
Suze exclaimed, “We need to tie her down. There is no suspension on the wagon.”
Albert questioned, “What’s suspension.”
Suzy responded, “A system of springs which a wagon is cushioned from ruff road conditions.”
Albert acknowledged, “Oh like what’s under the seat on the wagon, or a Stagecoach. I’ll get some rope.”
Then he headed into the blacksmith shop. Soon he came out with some rope. Then they tied her down, and got in the truck. Jim turned the truck around and headed to Lambert. Suzy watched out the back window to see how Rebecca was riding. Every time Jim got over twenty miles per-hour the Wagon would start to bounce around, so he just let the truck idle in second gear. About ten minutes down the road Albert yelled, “Stop! It’s the guy’s that shot up the Horseshoe.”
Jim looked out the passenger window, and there were the three guys on horses. They we’re riding across a field. Jim kept going and explained, “Don’t worry Albert they’re not going anywhere. There froze there until we start time. They will be right there when we come back.”
Albert looked out the back window at the wagon and replied, “Oh yah. Maybe I’ll poke each of them in the eyes so when we start time there blind. I just have to be careful the horse doesn’t step on me when it comes to life for that moment.”
Jim replied, “I could drive the truck right next to them and you could do it out the truck window. Then there is no chance of you getting hurt.”
Suzy asserted, “You guys are wicked. I like it, do evil to evil.”
Jim slowed down to cross the creek and announced, “Were only about ten minutes from town.”
They were going down Main Street when Albert announced, “It’s down here next to the Post Office.”
Then Jim saw the shingle hanging over the door. Dr. Patrick Heanley, so Jim parked the truck right in front of the Doctors office. They all went into the doctor’s office. There was only a woman inside. Jim and Albert put on their badges, and Suzy stood behind the woman and touched her. The woman came to life and Albert questioned, “Where’s the Doctor?”
Startled she questioned, “Where did you come from?”
Albert questioned again, “Where’s the Doctor?”
She replied, “Most likely at the Dusty Star Saloon with the Marshal having a beer this time of day.”
Suzy pulled her hand away, and they went down the street to the Saloon. They found the Doctor and Bill at a table, and walked up to the table. The Doctor and Marshal were sitting across from each other, so Jim and Albert took the other two seats in-between them. Suzy assured, “This is a Doctor and he took a Hippocratic Oath. You can tell him the truth about everything and he can’t tell anyone, so don’t hold back. Then she touched him and he came to life.
The Doctor looked around as Jim explained, “Listen Doc we’re Time Travelers and we need your help. We have stopped time so whatever happens in this time passage will only happen for us. Everyone else is frozen in time.”
Then she went in to the Livery and came back out with a rope. Jim took her hand and they disappeared. At the horse Jim announced, “Cool that worked. I’ll see you back in town.”
Then in a flash Jim was back with Albert. Jim questioned, “You ready to do the hinges Albert?”
Albert replied, “We need to get the ladder behind the Blacksmith shop.”
Jim took Albert’s hand and in a flash they were standing behind the Blacksmith shop. Jim took one end of the ladder and Albert got the other end. At the feed and seed Albert explained, “We need to get a board to use for a lever, so we can pick up the end of the door. We also need some kind of a block to put under the door. After they blocked up the door and put on the hinges. They put the Wagon back and parked the truck in the Feed and Seed. Then Albert sent Jim to get Henry’s wheelbarrow to fix the hole in the street. After that Albert took the block out from under the door, and Swung it shout saying, “Now that is how a door should work.”
They all gathered in front of the truck. Albert question, “What’s the time Jim?”
Jim pulled out his watch and announced, “Two hours and twenty minutes.”
Albert continued, “Set you watch back to the right time, and Suzy has to tell Henry something about the fencepost. Suzan you need to head over to see Henry. Jim and I will turn off the truck to start time. Then lock up and meat you at the Blacksmith Shop.”
Suzy replied, “I’m on it.”
Albert followed Suzy to the door. Then watched as she cross the street and said, “Go ahead James.”
Jim turned off the truck as Albert watched Suzy go in the Livery. Albert questioned, “I wonder what she’ll say to Henry about the post?”
Over at the Livery Suzy found Henry and explained, “I saw one of the fence posts was gone.”
Henry question, “Where’s it at?”
Suzy replied, “Out front by the road.”
Henry insisted, “Let’s go look at it.”
Suzy led Henry to the spot. Henry exclaimed, “Oh hell I never seen anything like this.”
Suzy looked at the splinters scattered everywhere and hypothesized, “Looks like it exploded.”
Henry divulged, “I guess I’ll just have to add this to my list of strange things that happen around this town. Benjamin would be blaming it on the Witch.”
Suzy went to the Blacksmith shop, and Henry went back inside. At the Blacksmith shop Suzy wiped her hand across her forehead and said, “All taken care of.”
Albert looked to Suzy and explained, “We are about out of wood at the house. Last night we all decided to pitch in and buy some firewood. I think we should do it next week. I was thinking if we used the truck the three of us could do a load in about an hour. That truck is so big I bet we could put two cords on it at one time.”
Jim and Suzy looked at each other as Jim informed, “You know how I feel about this. It’s all up to you sweetie.”
Suzy replied, “You just had to put that sweetie in there. How can I not give love to Victoria after all she dose for me? I’m in, let’s do it.”
Jim questioned, “You want to walk up to the house with me Suzan.”
Suzy said sure and they were off.
Down at Turners Guns and Hardware two men went in to get Bullets. When Oliver turned to get the box from the shelf the man jumped over the counter. Then he hit Oliver in the head knocking him out. Two men dragged him into the backroom then tied and gagged him. One man went to the back door and let two more men in, and the other locked the front door and turned around the closed sign.
After taking everything they wanted. They rode their horses to the back of the Store. One man went in over the loading dock into the back room. He hit Hank in the back of the head with the butt of his gun. Then he went to the dock door and waved for the rest to come in.
One man peeked through the curtain, and saw Emily talking to Mable. Meanwhile the other men were tying and gagging Hank. Finely Emily said, “That will be 60¢ for the lace Mable.”
Mable pulled the change from her change purse and assured, “See you at dinner tonight.”
The man peeking through the curtain waved his hand as the bell over the door rang. Then they all rushed in and grabbed Emily. One man put his hand over her mouth and another grabbed her legs. One went and locked the door and turned the sign around. The forth man open the cash register, as the two drug Emily to the back room and tied and gagged her. One man ran his hand up her leg saying oh she’s so soft. The other said, “Knock it off there will be plenty of time for that once we dump this town.”
Going back out front the man at the cash register bitched, “There was only about $30 in the register.”
Another man found the cash box under the counter and exclaimed, “Jack pot. Found the money box. I need something to knock the lock off.”
One man went into the backroom and came back with a pry-bar for opening crates. Handing it to the man on the floor he took it and slipped it through the lock. It popped off. Then he opened the box, and there laid the gold bar on top of a stack of cash. They emptied the box and went back out to their horses.
Then they went down to the Horseshoe, and tied their horses to the hitching post out front. They went straight to the kitchen with their guns drawn. Then they hollered, “Where’s the cash box?”
The cook announced. “I got it right here!”
Then he jumped in front of the door between the kitchen and dining room with a shotgun. Pulling the trigger there was a boom! Then one of the men flew across the kitchen. The other men opened fire. The cook’s body shook and wobbled backwards into the dining room, as blood sprayed on the walls and floor.
Across the street Albert heard the gun shots, and went and looked out the door. He saw three men run out and jump on their horses. Then it hit him they robbed the Horseshoe. He grabbed his gun and shot at them, but it was too late. They were too far away, so he walked across the street. Then he saw Rebecca slumped over the table through the window. He ran and looked in and there was blood everywhere.
Albert went into a panic and ran to the Feed and Seed next door. Pulling the skeleton key from his pocket it dropped to the loading dock. Albert yelled, “No, no not now!”
Finely he got the key in the door and turned it. Then he shoved the door open with a bang, and ran to the truck. Reaching behind the gas tank he felt around as he thought, James told me it was back here why can’t I find it? Then his fingers hit the little metal box. He pulled it out and slid it open. Taking the key he dropped the box to the ground. Taking a deep breath he slipped the key in the door and turned it. The lock popped up and he pulled out the key. Opening the door he jumped in the truck and slipped the key in the slot. Then he gave it a turn saying, “Come on come on.” As the starter growled then there was a pop and another pop and the motor took off. Then Albert fell back in the seat.
Suzy and Jim were talking to Benjamin when he froze. Suzy looked at Jim and insisted, “You told him where the spare key was. Didn’t you?”
Jim jumped up and replied, “I’m on it.” Then he disappeared and reappeared next to the truck. Looking at Albert Jim questioned, “What’s going on?”
Albert was hysterical and babbled, “They killed her! The bastards shot the place up and killed Rebecca! I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t get here fast enough?”
Jim put out his hand saying, “Come on down Albert we can do this. Now tell me where we need to go.”
Albert whimpered, “The Horseshoe.”
Jim took his hand and in a flash they were standing in the Horseshoe. Jim gasped and hugged Albert and whispered, “You did good Albert we just have to work this out. Now you stay right here. I’m going to get Suzan and I’ll be right back.”
Showing up back at the Boardinghouse Jim took Suzy’s hand and pulled her to her feet and they disappeared. Then they reappeared in the Horseshoe next to Albert. Suzy saw the cook on the floor and the man plastered all over the back wall of the kitchen, and the waitress was curled up on the floor with her hands wrapped around her head. Suzy gasped, “Oh my God.”
Albert was still hysterical and babbling, “I couldn’t save her. I got to kill the bastards please let me get them.”
Suzy turned and saw Rebecca slumped over the table and cried out, “Oh no!”
Then she grabbed Albert and squeezed him tight whispering, “We have to deal with this. You did good Albert. You stopped time, and now we can think everything through. This gives us all the time we need to do what needs to be done. Now we need to work out a plan. Does anyone know if Rebecca is still alive?”
Jim replied, “Not as far as I know.”
Suzy related, “Then I’m going to touch her to find out.”
Suzy touched Rebecca and blood oozed out of her arm, so she jerked her hand away. Then she announced, “OK she is still alive. Now we need to know where the closest doctor is. How about it Albert where’s the closest doctor?”
Albert him and hawed for a minute then said, “Dr. Patrick Heanley in Lambert.”
Suzy grabbed Jim’s arm and gave it a tug as she said, “Outside now!”
Jim took Suzy’s hand and they were outside the door. Suzy insisted, “Quit doing that. I can walk out the door. Now about Albert he has lost it. I think we should take the shifter knob from him.”
Jim snapped back, “No! Listen to me. If it was me you would be the same way, and if it was you like that I’d be worse than Albert. What you need to know is Benjamin told me Rebecca sneaks in Albert’s room every night. They act like they don’t get along, but their sleeping together.”
Suzy pulled the door open and went to Albert. She took his muscular arm and whispered, “It’s going to be all right. What we have to do now is get the Wagon hooked to the truck. Get a big flat board to lay Rebecca on so we can carry her to the wagon without touching her. If we touch her she will start bleeding again. She has already lost a lot of blood, but I’m sure she’s fine. It always looks a lot worse than it is. Think of spilling a cup of coffee on the floor. It spreads out and covers a big area. A person can lose that much and recover. We got this now let’s do it.”
Albert flipped over a table and broke off the legs and barked, “A flat board. Jim back the Iron Horse to the Wagon and I’ll hook it up.”
Jim disappeared and then the Feed and Seed door flew open. The truck drove out as Albert crossed the street. Jim backed the truck to the Wagon until he heard Albert yell, “Good.” Then Albert dropped the ring on the hitch and latched it. Albert started walking back to the Restaurant, and Jim drove the truck so the back of the wagon was by the door.
Inside Suzy had moved all the tables and chairs to the far side of the room. Jim and Albert came in and Suzy instructed, “I think if one of you pushes the chair away from the wall, and the other pulls the table out. We can lay this table top behind her. Then tip the table and chair on to it. Then lift the table off her, and carry her to the Wagon.”
Albert insisted, “I’ll get the chair.”
Jim replied, “Then I got the table.”
They moved the table out about six feet and Jim instructed, “I think Albert should put the table top up on end behind Rebecca’s chair, and let it down as we tip up the table.”
Suzy got on one side of the table and Jim got on the other. Then they tipped it back until Albert set his end on the floor. Then Jim and Suzy moved the table to the other side of the room. Suzy propped the door open and looked at Rebecca bent all weird in the chair. Then she helped Jim with the end of the table top by the door, and Albert lifted the other end. Then slowly they carried her to the Wagon. Albert put his end in first so her head would be up front. Then Jim and Suzy pushed their end in.
Suze exclaimed, “We need to tie her down. There is no suspension on the wagon.”
Albert questioned, “What’s suspension.”
Suzy responded, “A system of springs which a wagon is cushioned from ruff road conditions.”
Albert acknowledged, “Oh like what’s under the seat on the wagon, or a Stagecoach. I’ll get some rope.”
Then he headed into the blacksmith shop. Soon he came out with some rope. Then they tied her down, and got in the truck. Jim turned the truck around and headed to Lambert. Suzy watched out the back window to see how Rebecca was riding. Every time Jim got over twenty miles per-hour the Wagon would start to bounce around, so he just let the truck idle in second gear. About ten minutes down the road Albert yelled, “Stop! It’s the guy’s that shot up the Horseshoe.”
Jim looked out the passenger window, and there were the three guys on horses. They we’re riding across a field. Jim kept going and explained, “Don’t worry Albert they’re not going anywhere. There froze there until we start time. They will be right there when we come back.”
Albert looked out the back window at the wagon and replied, “Oh yah. Maybe I’ll poke each of them in the eyes so when we start time there blind. I just have to be careful the horse doesn’t step on me when it comes to life for that moment.”
Jim replied, “I could drive the truck right next to them and you could do it out the truck window. Then there is no chance of you getting hurt.”
Suzy asserted, “You guys are wicked. I like it, do evil to evil.”
Jim slowed down to cross the creek and announced, “Were only about ten minutes from town.”
They were going down Main Street when Albert announced, “It’s down here next to the Post Office.”
Then Jim saw the shingle hanging over the door. Dr. Patrick Heanley, so Jim parked the truck right in front of the Doctors office. They all went into the doctor’s office. There was only a woman inside. Jim and Albert put on their badges, and Suzy stood behind the woman and touched her. The woman came to life and Albert questioned, “Where’s the Doctor?”
Startled she questioned, “Where did you come from?”
Albert questioned again, “Where’s the Doctor?”
She replied, “Most likely at the Dusty Star Saloon with the Marshal having a beer this time of day.”
Suzy pulled her hand away, and they went down the street to the Saloon. They found the Doctor and Bill at a table, and walked up to the table. The Doctor and Marshal were sitting across from each other, so Jim and Albert took the other two seats in-between them. Suzy assured, “This is a Doctor and he took a Hippocratic Oath. You can tell him the truth about everything and he can’t tell anyone, so don’t hold back. Then she touched him and he came to life.
The Doctor looked around as Jim explained, “Listen Doc we’re Time Travelers and we need your help. We have stopped time so whatever happens in this time passage will only happen for us. Everyone else is frozen in time.”
gonewacky
Veteran Member
The Doctor insisted, “This is some kind of trick.”
Jim disappeared and reappeared across the room and yelled, “Over here.”
Then he reappeared back at the table and insisted, “Have you ever seen anyone do that. Look at the Marshal, the Bar Keep, and the Saloon gal. We have a woman with a gunshot wound we need you to fix. Will you at least come and look at her.”
The Doctor agreed and got up as Suzy took his arm. The Doctor stopped and question, “What is this?” Albert stepped in front of the Doctor and explained, “Look I’m the Sheriff in Dention you know me, and Bill and I are good friends. The thing is one of us must be touching you for you not to be frozen in time. Now let’s go.”
They went out the door and down the road, but when the Doctor saw the truck he stopped dead in his tracks. Then he questioned, “What the hell is that?”
Suzy blurted, “The Time Machine. Now let’s get going.”
Then she gave his arm a tug, and they walked passed the truck. At the Wagon Suzy insisted, “That’s your patient, but don’t touch her or she’ll come to life and start bleeding out again.”
Looking at Rebecca Patrick mumbled, “Let’s see what we have. Looks like the bullet went through her arm and into the side of her chest.”
Then looking up Patrick questioned, “You sure she’s alive? Where the bullet went in the chest scares me. If it went into the lung I don’t believe I’m qualified to fix that.”
Suzy replied, “She’s alive for sure I touched her and know. You should be able to fix whatever is needed, because time is not a factor here. If you need to look something up in your medical books we just stop, and find what we need. Then go back at it.”
Patrick questioned, “Did you see where she was bleeding from.”
Suzy replied, “The arm is where I saw all the blood coming from.”
Patrick walked around to the other side of the wagon with Suzy in tow. Then came back and hypothesized, “The wound in the arm looks like a through and through. I think it might have hit the bone, and by what you say a bleeder too. We need to find a way to get her out of that chair, and in my office.”
Jim explained, “I was thinking if we tipped the chair on its side we could dump her on the table top. Then we could put a tourniquet on her arm and touch her to lay her flat.”
Patrick offered, “I can get a tourniquet, but the rest is up to you.”
Albert assured, “I’ll get the chair out.”
Then Albert started untying the ropes, as Suzy followed Patrick in his office. Inside Suzy reminded Patrick of his Hippocratic Oath, and that he wasn’t allowed to tell anyone. Patrick assured Suzy he would never tell anyone, if he tried everyone would think he was crazy. Then he’d lose all his patients. He pulled a tourniquet from a drawer, and headed back out. Albert was handing out the chair as Patrick came out with the tourniquet. Patrick climbed up in the wagon with Albert. Careful not to touch Rebecca Patrick put the tourniquet around Rebecca’s arm. Then he questioned, “Who’s going to touch her?”
Albert replied, “I’ll do it.”
Patrick insisted, “Go ahead.”
Albert put his hand on Rebecca’s leg, and Patrick rolled her on her back and laid down her arm. Then he stood back and announced, “All clear.”
Albert let go and requested, “Do your best doc. She’s special to me.”
Patrick informed, “I recognize her she’s a reporter for the paper. She writes about you as the Blacksmith and the Sheriff. I read what’s happening up there in Dention. Now if you all come inside I’ll show you where I want you to put her. I think we can tip the table top up, and slide her off onto my table without touching her.”
Inside Patrick insisted we’ll need to move my wife out of the entryway. Albert insisted he would do it, but Patrick insisted he do it. He informed she gets upset easy, so if he could get the Sheriff and his Deputy to move to the examination and surgery room. Then mam if you would stand behind me. I’ll move her down the hall.
Suzy whispered, “Its Suzan Doc.”
Patrick replied, “Try to stand off to one side so she doesn’t see you Suzan.”
Patrick took his wife’s arm and she came to life. She looked around as she announced, “A Sheriff and his Deputy was just here.”
Patrick comforted her saying, “I know Melissa. Just come down to your tea room, and I’ll tell you all about it sweetheart.”
At the end of the hall he let go of her and commented, “If only you could turn life on and off like that. You’d never miss anything.”
Suzy replied, “Unfortunately it is always stressful when you mess with time, but you’ll save Rebecca. The Sheriff will hang or shoot the Shelton gang, and none of us can ever tell what happened. Like us you’ll have to carry that the rest of your life.”
Patrick mumbled, “I already do that. Don’t tell my wife he’d say, or don’t tell my husband. I’m already caring twenty years of that in my head. This just gets added to the list.”
Standing over Rebecca Patrick questioned, “Is there a way I can do this without someone hanging on me. I’m going to have to move around a lot. It would be easier.”
Albert insisted, “Suzan let go of him right now!”
Suzy pulled her hand away and Albert questioned, “Can I give him the knob, and have Suzan hang on my arm?”
Jim replied, “I’m fine with it. If that’s what you want to do Albert.”
Suzy took Albert’s arm and whispered, “That’s your power. I think you should give it to him.”
Albert took a hold of the Doctors arm and held out the knob and divulged, “This will give you that power, but respect it. It only works for good; you do anything evil it will destroy you.”
Then Albert slipped it in the Doctors pocket, and backed away. Free to move around the Doctor started putting his tools on a tray. Then he slid a stand next to the surgery table. The doctor took Rebecca’s arm and gave it a twist to turn the exit wound up. Blood oozed out as he moved her arm. He let go and announced, There you are you little devil. Let’s see if I can find you without making you start up again. He took his scalpel and made a slit across the wound, so that it just went through the skin. Then he used an instrument that looked like a fancy pair of pliers that worked backwards. He squeezed them until they went click and they held the wound open. Then he grabbed some of the cutup pieces of white cloth from the tray. He put a clamp on them, and pushed it in the wound. After soaking up the blood he taped Rebecca on the arm and exclaimed, “I got you. You tricky devil you.”
Then he picked up a peace of stitching material, and made a little loop in it. Then he took a tool like thin nose pliers and shove the line end through the loop. Holding on to one end of the line he used the thin nose pliers to push the loop in the wound. Then he pulled the ends tight, and made another loop and shoved the line end through the loop. Pulling the ends tight he took a white cloth from the tray. Then he wiped his face and exclaimed, “One more.”
Then he did it all again and announced, “I think I got it.”
With that he reached out and touched her. Rebecca moaned and Patrick spoke softly, “It’s going to be alright darling. That looks good. I say we close this up.”
Then he stitched Rebecca up, and turned her arm over and stitched up the entry wound. Letting Rebecca’s arm hang off the side of the table he look at the hole in her side. He gasped and stood back as he announced, “This is going to take some time. I’ll need a chair. I’m going to be here a while. It looks like the bullet hit the bone in her arm and started tumbling, and slammed into a rib sideways. It probably saved her life, but it shattered her rib. I can see the bullet in there, but it’s going to take me over an hour to get out all the bone fragments.”
Albert insisted, “Take all the time you need Doc. The only ones that know this is happening are right here in this room.”
Patrick explained, “I need light. I need to put two lamps over here on the table, but I’ve noticed that there is light in here, and there’s a flame in the lamp. I also noticed that the flame is not burning it’s frozen like everything else. How can I use a lamp to see?”
Suzy explained, “If we touch a lamp it will come to life and put out light. When we remove our hand the light freezes just like everything else. The light does not go away but it won’t throw a shadow. We can put a lamp on each side of the wound, and light it up. Then we can take away our hand, and you can work in the light without any shadows. Do you understand?”
Patrick replied, “No, but if it works I’ll use it.”
Jim and Suzy each got a lamp and Patrick pulled up a chair. He picked up some long nose tweezers and started pulling out slivers of bone. Suzy put her lips next to Jim’s ear and whispered, “I’m sorry. You were right to tell Albert about the key.”
Jim whispered under his breath, “I know.”
Patrick started to talk as he worked, “I’ve seen you before Suzan. I saw you walking around town a few weeks ago with a rifle. People just don’t forget seeing someone like you dressed like that. Wearing a gun belt and caring a rifle. So tell me Time Traveler's do they hang people in your time?”
Jim replied, “No, we cause great physical and mental pain intentionally until they die. What we do is put them all in a big building and let them kill each other. I thought that hanging was barbaric, but now I think it’s better than what we do.”
Suzy added, “We call it incarceration, and if you are good and live twenty years they might let you out to kill again.”
Patrick proclaimed, “I thought by the time we advanced as much as you there would be no crime.”
Albert question, “How’s it going Doc?”
Patrick replied, “I’m ready to pull out the bullet.”
Then he took a long nose tool and shoved it in the wound, and pulled out the bullet. Then he dropped it in a metal bowl with a ting and questioned, “Should I save it?”
Albert replied, “Only until you ask her about it.”
Patrick went back to pulling out bone fragments as he commented, “I’ll put it in some alcohol and save it. You know I would get about ten dollars for a surgery like this.”
Albert pulled out the gold bar Suzy gave him and exclaimed, “Here this is all I have. It’s yours.”
Suzy jerked her hand off Albert’s arm and looked at Jim. Then she insisted, “Jim give me twenty dollars.”
Jim pulled the paper money from his pocket. Then he slipped out a ten and two fives, and handed it to Suzy. Suzy questioned, “How long until she can travel?”
Patrick insisted, “I wasn’t asking for money. I was just telling you what something like this would cost. As for how long before she can travel home. I’d say at least two weeks.”
Suzy asserted, “Then you’ll take twenty dollars for the surgery and two weeks care.”
Then she threw the twenty dollars on his surgical tray. Then she put her hands around Albert’s hand with the gold bar and insisted, “Don’t ever trade one love for another. That is for the cow. I put the money on his tray. It’s all taking care of. You paid for it the moment you put the key in the slot and turned it. That one simple act got us to where we are now, and it will bring the Shelton gang to an end. Good over takes evil. Remember love always wins.”
Then she pushed Albert’s hand back in his pocket and took his arm. Patrick slid his chair back and took a deep breath. Then he informed, “I have to leave that last little bit open so it can drain. All I have left is to bandage her arm and put on a splint. I do believe the bullet hit the bone in her arm and started tumbling. That’s why it tore a big hole coming out, and going in her side. If it was an inch higher or lower it would have gone in between the ribs, and there might have been nothing I could have done. I’m going to bring her around if that’s OK with you?”
Jim inquired, “What do you think Albert?”
Albert insisted, “I’m ready, go ahead.”
Patrick went to a cabinet with glass in the doors, and removed a glass jar. Then he set it on the table next to the cabinet. Pulling a small glass from the cabinet he set it next to the jar. The he used the water pitcher to fill the glass about a quarter full. Then he removed the lid from the jar, and used a little spoon to scoop out some of the white powder. Stirring the powder the Doctor explained, “This is morphine. It will help with the pain, and make her sleep. I’ll keep her like this for about three days then cut back as she can handle the pain.”
Then Patrick took the glass and moved next to Rebecca and announced, “Could one of you touch her for me?”
Jim put his hand on her leg as the Doctor rubbed her face. Rebecca moaned and Patrick spoke softly, “I need you to drink something Rebecca.”
Albert assured, “It’s all right sweetheart he’s the Doctor.”
Then the Doctor slipped his hand under her head and lifted her head just enough for her to drink. Her eyes opened about half way and Albert gasped. The doctor reassured, “Drink this darling it will make you feel better.”
Then he put the glass to her lips, and slowly poured the liquid in her mouth. He stopped about half way and Rebecca cried out, “Oh God it hurts.” Suzy squeezed Alberts arm as a tear ran down his face, and he clinched his fist.
The Doctor assured, “Just drink a little more and the pain will be better darling.”
Then the Doctor poured the rest of the liquid in her mouth and said, “You can let go now.”
Jim removed his hand and the doctor turned around and informed, “There’s nothing more I can do it’s all up to her now. We’ll just do our best to keep her out of pain and let her sleep. Her body will do the rest.”
Jim questioned, “Then we’re done here?”
Patrick insisted, “Not unless you want to start time, and stand here and watch her for two weeks.”
Jim replied, “Nope, now we have to put things back to the way it was the best we can. That means we put you back in the Saloon like we found you. When time starts you need to tell Bill you have to go. Then come back here and take care of your wife. I would leave you here for that, but we can’t have someone just disappear in front of someone. Ready?”
They all headed back to the Saloon. They put the Doctor back where they found him. Albert got his knob back, and they headed back to the truck. On the way Jim questioned, “I wonder why they shot up the Horseshoe? I just don’t understand that. They can’t keep that much money there.”
Albert replied, “This Gang has been known to take over an entire town. Then take whatever they can get. Our town is a little too big for that, and they have me. I’m sure they picked every business that had money. I just don’t know if they started with the Horseshoe, or if they had worked their way through town. I would think the Store would be the best place. They might have hit it first.”
Suzy gasped, “Oh my God, Emily. Jim can you jump that far?”
Jim replied, I don’t know, I just do know I can only jump to a place I know or saw. Let me try.”
Jim disappeared. Then a few minutes later he popped back. Then he announced, “Emily and Hank are tied up in the back room. I touched Emily and she moved, but when I touched Hank he was out cold and breathing.”
Albert insisted, “We’ll have to check every business in the entire town.”
Jim replied, “I haven’t been in very many places in the town, so I can’t jump into the inside. Are we ready to head back?”
Albert explained, “I so want to stay here for Rebecca, but I have to get that gang. There’s no way I’m letting them get away.”
Jim put his hand down to check his gun. Then he looked at Suzy and announced, “Our guns are still hanging on the peg at the Boardinghouse.”
Albert shook his head, “You didn’t need guns. You have the power. Suzan can just shoot a lightning bolt at them and you can just blink out.”
Jim insisted, “That’s true, but we can’t go around using that in front of people. I think it’s best if we only use it when time is stopped.”
Suzy took Jim’s hand and pulled him to the truck saying, “It’s ok Jim. We’ve been in panic mode for the last three hours. Now that we know Rebecca is going to be alright. We can slow down and take this stuff one thing at a time.”
Jim disappeared and reappeared across the room and yelled, “Over here.”
Then he reappeared back at the table and insisted, “Have you ever seen anyone do that. Look at the Marshal, the Bar Keep, and the Saloon gal. We have a woman with a gunshot wound we need you to fix. Will you at least come and look at her.”
The Doctor agreed and got up as Suzy took his arm. The Doctor stopped and question, “What is this?” Albert stepped in front of the Doctor and explained, “Look I’m the Sheriff in Dention you know me, and Bill and I are good friends. The thing is one of us must be touching you for you not to be frozen in time. Now let’s go.”
They went out the door and down the road, but when the Doctor saw the truck he stopped dead in his tracks. Then he questioned, “What the hell is that?”
Suzy blurted, “The Time Machine. Now let’s get going.”
Then she gave his arm a tug, and they walked passed the truck. At the Wagon Suzy insisted, “That’s your patient, but don’t touch her or she’ll come to life and start bleeding out again.”
Looking at Rebecca Patrick mumbled, “Let’s see what we have. Looks like the bullet went through her arm and into the side of her chest.”
Then looking up Patrick questioned, “You sure she’s alive? Where the bullet went in the chest scares me. If it went into the lung I don’t believe I’m qualified to fix that.”
Suzy replied, “She’s alive for sure I touched her and know. You should be able to fix whatever is needed, because time is not a factor here. If you need to look something up in your medical books we just stop, and find what we need. Then go back at it.”
Patrick questioned, “Did you see where she was bleeding from.”
Suzy replied, “The arm is where I saw all the blood coming from.”
Patrick walked around to the other side of the wagon with Suzy in tow. Then came back and hypothesized, “The wound in the arm looks like a through and through. I think it might have hit the bone, and by what you say a bleeder too. We need to find a way to get her out of that chair, and in my office.”
Jim explained, “I was thinking if we tipped the chair on its side we could dump her on the table top. Then we could put a tourniquet on her arm and touch her to lay her flat.”
Patrick offered, “I can get a tourniquet, but the rest is up to you.”
Albert assured, “I’ll get the chair out.”
Then Albert started untying the ropes, as Suzy followed Patrick in his office. Inside Suzy reminded Patrick of his Hippocratic Oath, and that he wasn’t allowed to tell anyone. Patrick assured Suzy he would never tell anyone, if he tried everyone would think he was crazy. Then he’d lose all his patients. He pulled a tourniquet from a drawer, and headed back out. Albert was handing out the chair as Patrick came out with the tourniquet. Patrick climbed up in the wagon with Albert. Careful not to touch Rebecca Patrick put the tourniquet around Rebecca’s arm. Then he questioned, “Who’s going to touch her?”
Albert replied, “I’ll do it.”
Patrick insisted, “Go ahead.”
Albert put his hand on Rebecca’s leg, and Patrick rolled her on her back and laid down her arm. Then he stood back and announced, “All clear.”
Albert let go and requested, “Do your best doc. She’s special to me.”
Patrick informed, “I recognize her she’s a reporter for the paper. She writes about you as the Blacksmith and the Sheriff. I read what’s happening up there in Dention. Now if you all come inside I’ll show you where I want you to put her. I think we can tip the table top up, and slide her off onto my table without touching her.”
Inside Patrick insisted we’ll need to move my wife out of the entryway. Albert insisted he would do it, but Patrick insisted he do it. He informed she gets upset easy, so if he could get the Sheriff and his Deputy to move to the examination and surgery room. Then mam if you would stand behind me. I’ll move her down the hall.
Suzy whispered, “Its Suzan Doc.”
Patrick replied, “Try to stand off to one side so she doesn’t see you Suzan.”
Patrick took his wife’s arm and she came to life. She looked around as she announced, “A Sheriff and his Deputy was just here.”
Patrick comforted her saying, “I know Melissa. Just come down to your tea room, and I’ll tell you all about it sweetheart.”
At the end of the hall he let go of her and commented, “If only you could turn life on and off like that. You’d never miss anything.”
Suzy replied, “Unfortunately it is always stressful when you mess with time, but you’ll save Rebecca. The Sheriff will hang or shoot the Shelton gang, and none of us can ever tell what happened. Like us you’ll have to carry that the rest of your life.”
Patrick mumbled, “I already do that. Don’t tell my wife he’d say, or don’t tell my husband. I’m already caring twenty years of that in my head. This just gets added to the list.”
Standing over Rebecca Patrick questioned, “Is there a way I can do this without someone hanging on me. I’m going to have to move around a lot. It would be easier.”
Albert insisted, “Suzan let go of him right now!”
Suzy pulled her hand away and Albert questioned, “Can I give him the knob, and have Suzan hang on my arm?”
Jim replied, “I’m fine with it. If that’s what you want to do Albert.”
Suzy took Albert’s arm and whispered, “That’s your power. I think you should give it to him.”
Albert took a hold of the Doctors arm and held out the knob and divulged, “This will give you that power, but respect it. It only works for good; you do anything evil it will destroy you.”
Then Albert slipped it in the Doctors pocket, and backed away. Free to move around the Doctor started putting his tools on a tray. Then he slid a stand next to the surgery table. The doctor took Rebecca’s arm and gave it a twist to turn the exit wound up. Blood oozed out as he moved her arm. He let go and announced, There you are you little devil. Let’s see if I can find you without making you start up again. He took his scalpel and made a slit across the wound, so that it just went through the skin. Then he used an instrument that looked like a fancy pair of pliers that worked backwards. He squeezed them until they went click and they held the wound open. Then he grabbed some of the cutup pieces of white cloth from the tray. He put a clamp on them, and pushed it in the wound. After soaking up the blood he taped Rebecca on the arm and exclaimed, “I got you. You tricky devil you.”
Then he picked up a peace of stitching material, and made a little loop in it. Then he took a tool like thin nose pliers and shove the line end through the loop. Holding on to one end of the line he used the thin nose pliers to push the loop in the wound. Then he pulled the ends tight, and made another loop and shoved the line end through the loop. Pulling the ends tight he took a white cloth from the tray. Then he wiped his face and exclaimed, “One more.”
Then he did it all again and announced, “I think I got it.”
With that he reached out and touched her. Rebecca moaned and Patrick spoke softly, “It’s going to be alright darling. That looks good. I say we close this up.”
Then he stitched Rebecca up, and turned her arm over and stitched up the entry wound. Letting Rebecca’s arm hang off the side of the table he look at the hole in her side. He gasped and stood back as he announced, “This is going to take some time. I’ll need a chair. I’m going to be here a while. It looks like the bullet hit the bone in her arm and started tumbling, and slammed into a rib sideways. It probably saved her life, but it shattered her rib. I can see the bullet in there, but it’s going to take me over an hour to get out all the bone fragments.”
Albert insisted, “Take all the time you need Doc. The only ones that know this is happening are right here in this room.”
Patrick explained, “I need light. I need to put two lamps over here on the table, but I’ve noticed that there is light in here, and there’s a flame in the lamp. I also noticed that the flame is not burning it’s frozen like everything else. How can I use a lamp to see?”
Suzy explained, “If we touch a lamp it will come to life and put out light. When we remove our hand the light freezes just like everything else. The light does not go away but it won’t throw a shadow. We can put a lamp on each side of the wound, and light it up. Then we can take away our hand, and you can work in the light without any shadows. Do you understand?”
Patrick replied, “No, but if it works I’ll use it.”
Jim and Suzy each got a lamp and Patrick pulled up a chair. He picked up some long nose tweezers and started pulling out slivers of bone. Suzy put her lips next to Jim’s ear and whispered, “I’m sorry. You were right to tell Albert about the key.”
Jim whispered under his breath, “I know.”
Patrick started to talk as he worked, “I’ve seen you before Suzan. I saw you walking around town a few weeks ago with a rifle. People just don’t forget seeing someone like you dressed like that. Wearing a gun belt and caring a rifle. So tell me Time Traveler's do they hang people in your time?”
Jim replied, “No, we cause great physical and mental pain intentionally until they die. What we do is put them all in a big building and let them kill each other. I thought that hanging was barbaric, but now I think it’s better than what we do.”
Suzy added, “We call it incarceration, and if you are good and live twenty years they might let you out to kill again.”
Patrick proclaimed, “I thought by the time we advanced as much as you there would be no crime.”
Albert question, “How’s it going Doc?”
Patrick replied, “I’m ready to pull out the bullet.”
Then he took a long nose tool and shoved it in the wound, and pulled out the bullet. Then he dropped it in a metal bowl with a ting and questioned, “Should I save it?”
Albert replied, “Only until you ask her about it.”
Patrick went back to pulling out bone fragments as he commented, “I’ll put it in some alcohol and save it. You know I would get about ten dollars for a surgery like this.”
Albert pulled out the gold bar Suzy gave him and exclaimed, “Here this is all I have. It’s yours.”
Suzy jerked her hand off Albert’s arm and looked at Jim. Then she insisted, “Jim give me twenty dollars.”
Jim pulled the paper money from his pocket. Then he slipped out a ten and two fives, and handed it to Suzy. Suzy questioned, “How long until she can travel?”
Patrick insisted, “I wasn’t asking for money. I was just telling you what something like this would cost. As for how long before she can travel home. I’d say at least two weeks.”
Suzy asserted, “Then you’ll take twenty dollars for the surgery and two weeks care.”
Then she threw the twenty dollars on his surgical tray. Then she put her hands around Albert’s hand with the gold bar and insisted, “Don’t ever trade one love for another. That is for the cow. I put the money on his tray. It’s all taking care of. You paid for it the moment you put the key in the slot and turned it. That one simple act got us to where we are now, and it will bring the Shelton gang to an end. Good over takes evil. Remember love always wins.”
Then she pushed Albert’s hand back in his pocket and took his arm. Patrick slid his chair back and took a deep breath. Then he informed, “I have to leave that last little bit open so it can drain. All I have left is to bandage her arm and put on a splint. I do believe the bullet hit the bone in her arm and started tumbling. That’s why it tore a big hole coming out, and going in her side. If it was an inch higher or lower it would have gone in between the ribs, and there might have been nothing I could have done. I’m going to bring her around if that’s OK with you?”
Jim inquired, “What do you think Albert?”
Albert insisted, “I’m ready, go ahead.”
Patrick went to a cabinet with glass in the doors, and removed a glass jar. Then he set it on the table next to the cabinet. Pulling a small glass from the cabinet he set it next to the jar. The he used the water pitcher to fill the glass about a quarter full. Then he removed the lid from the jar, and used a little spoon to scoop out some of the white powder. Stirring the powder the Doctor explained, “This is morphine. It will help with the pain, and make her sleep. I’ll keep her like this for about three days then cut back as she can handle the pain.”
Then Patrick took the glass and moved next to Rebecca and announced, “Could one of you touch her for me?”
Jim put his hand on her leg as the Doctor rubbed her face. Rebecca moaned and Patrick spoke softly, “I need you to drink something Rebecca.”
Albert assured, “It’s all right sweetheart he’s the Doctor.”
Then the Doctor slipped his hand under her head and lifted her head just enough for her to drink. Her eyes opened about half way and Albert gasped. The doctor reassured, “Drink this darling it will make you feel better.”
Then he put the glass to her lips, and slowly poured the liquid in her mouth. He stopped about half way and Rebecca cried out, “Oh God it hurts.” Suzy squeezed Alberts arm as a tear ran down his face, and he clinched his fist.
The Doctor assured, “Just drink a little more and the pain will be better darling.”
Then the Doctor poured the rest of the liquid in her mouth and said, “You can let go now.”
Jim removed his hand and the doctor turned around and informed, “There’s nothing more I can do it’s all up to her now. We’ll just do our best to keep her out of pain and let her sleep. Her body will do the rest.”
Jim questioned, “Then we’re done here?”
Patrick insisted, “Not unless you want to start time, and stand here and watch her for two weeks.”
Jim replied, “Nope, now we have to put things back to the way it was the best we can. That means we put you back in the Saloon like we found you. When time starts you need to tell Bill you have to go. Then come back here and take care of your wife. I would leave you here for that, but we can’t have someone just disappear in front of someone. Ready?”
They all headed back to the Saloon. They put the Doctor back where they found him. Albert got his knob back, and they headed back to the truck. On the way Jim questioned, “I wonder why they shot up the Horseshoe? I just don’t understand that. They can’t keep that much money there.”
Albert replied, “This Gang has been known to take over an entire town. Then take whatever they can get. Our town is a little too big for that, and they have me. I’m sure they picked every business that had money. I just don’t know if they started with the Horseshoe, or if they had worked their way through town. I would think the Store would be the best place. They might have hit it first.”
Suzy gasped, “Oh my God, Emily. Jim can you jump that far?”
Jim replied, I don’t know, I just do know I can only jump to a place I know or saw. Let me try.”
Jim disappeared. Then a few minutes later he popped back. Then he announced, “Emily and Hank are tied up in the back room. I touched Emily and she moved, but when I touched Hank he was out cold and breathing.”
Albert insisted, “We’ll have to check every business in the entire town.”
Jim replied, “I haven’t been in very many places in the town, so I can’t jump into the inside. Are we ready to head back?”
Albert explained, “I so want to stay here for Rebecca, but I have to get that gang. There’s no way I’m letting them get away.”
Jim put his hand down to check his gun. Then he looked at Suzy and announced, “Our guns are still hanging on the peg at the Boardinghouse.”
Albert shook his head, “You didn’t need guns. You have the power. Suzan can just shoot a lightning bolt at them and you can just blink out.”
Jim insisted, “That’s true, but we can’t go around using that in front of people. I think it’s best if we only use it when time is stopped.”
Suzy took Jim’s hand and pulled him to the truck saying, “It’s ok Jim. We’ve been in panic mode for the last three hours. Now that we know Rebecca is going to be alright. We can slow down and take this stuff one thing at a time.”