Bill took a look it was a half finish land deed now what would Henry have this? It looked like an official deed but unfinished. Bill folded it and put it in his pocket on the way over to the office he stop at the land office. He hand it to the man behind the desk and said, “Pal take a look at this.”
Pal took it and began looking it over. Then he said, “This is a very good copy of an official land deed it’s a forgery and a good one at that. Bill took it back and put it in his pocket and headed on to the office he had to think about this. What was Henry doing with a forgery of a land deed? When Bill got to the office Mat said, “Bill you look worried.” Bill handed him the piece of paper Mat look it over and said, “So it’s part of a deed what of it? “ “It’s a forgery.” Mat said, “It looks good to me.”
Bill said, “And to any one else the only ones that would know it’s a forgery would be those who work with them.” Mat said, “Where did you get it?” “Mrs. Webb found it under Henry’s bed.” “Maybe he was working on something and couldn’t tell us about it you know how Henry was about people knowing his business.” Bill said, “Could be.” He just didn’t know what to think but he was going to find out if he could.
Henry felt freer then he felt in a very long time no weight from the job on his shoulders and no one trying to kill him yes he was free. The trains went on and on his troubles were left far behind him. He was excited at what lay before him he didn’t know where he was going and didn’t care but he had decided on Wichita Falls as his first stop. When he arrives he found it to be a large city with people going every which way. The first thing he did was find a stable for his horses then on to find a hotel. After leaving the hotel he decided to see what this town had to offer. There were so many people on the streets no one paid him no mind and that was ok with him. As he walked around he found that if he needed a drink it wouldn’t be hard to find as there was at lest two saloons on very street. He found a nice park and would spend some time there over the next two weeks.
One afternoon on retuning from a restful hour in the park, Henry decided to stop off for a beer. While heading up the street he saw a sign that read Red Tail Saloon. Henry had seen it before but never entered, after entering he saw small crowd of man he took it as being still early in the day as it was only 4 o’clock, he took a table in the back with his back to the wall. The bartender came up to his table and said, “Yea,” “Beer.” Henry could see the bartender giving him the once over in the mirror behind the bar. He returned with he’s beer and sit it before him, then turn to leave then turn back and said, “Your shot-gun Miller aren’t you?” “That’s what some call me.” The bartender face lit up. “I’m mighty glad to meet you.” “John is the name.” Henry asked, “Well John have we met?” John answered, “No but I was in Reno a couple months ago saw you there.” “I heard that you were killed just before I left?” Henry said, “All most.” Henry was getting a little pissed off as he just wanted him to go away. John looked over to the bar and said, “I best be getting back to the bar and started to turn away then said.
Pal took it and began looking it over. Then he said, “This is a very good copy of an official land deed it’s a forgery and a good one at that. Bill took it back and put it in his pocket and headed on to the office he had to think about this. What was Henry doing with a forgery of a land deed? When Bill got to the office Mat said, “Bill you look worried.” Bill handed him the piece of paper Mat look it over and said, “So it’s part of a deed what of it? “ “It’s a forgery.” Mat said, “It looks good to me.”
Bill said, “And to any one else the only ones that would know it’s a forgery would be those who work with them.” Mat said, “Where did you get it?” “Mrs. Webb found it under Henry’s bed.” “Maybe he was working on something and couldn’t tell us about it you know how Henry was about people knowing his business.” Bill said, “Could be.” He just didn’t know what to think but he was going to find out if he could.
Henry felt freer then he felt in a very long time no weight from the job on his shoulders and no one trying to kill him yes he was free. The trains went on and on his troubles were left far behind him. He was excited at what lay before him he didn’t know where he was going and didn’t care but he had decided on Wichita Falls as his first stop. When he arrives he found it to be a large city with people going every which way. The first thing he did was find a stable for his horses then on to find a hotel. After leaving the hotel he decided to see what this town had to offer. There were so many people on the streets no one paid him no mind and that was ok with him. As he walked around he found that if he needed a drink it wouldn’t be hard to find as there was at lest two saloons on very street. He found a nice park and would spend some time there over the next two weeks.
One afternoon on retuning from a restful hour in the park, Henry decided to stop off for a beer. While heading up the street he saw a sign that read Red Tail Saloon. Henry had seen it before but never entered, after entering he saw small crowd of man he took it as being still early in the day as it was only 4 o’clock, he took a table in the back with his back to the wall. The bartender came up to his table and said, “Yea,” “Beer.” Henry could see the bartender giving him the once over in the mirror behind the bar. He returned with he’s beer and sit it before him, then turn to leave then turn back and said, “Your shot-gun Miller aren’t you?” “That’s what some call me.” The bartender face lit up. “I’m mighty glad to meet you.” “John is the name.” Henry asked, “Well John have we met?” John answered, “No but I was in Reno a couple months ago saw you there.” “I heard that you were killed just before I left?” Henry said, “All most.” Henry was getting a little pissed off as he just wanted him to go away. John looked over to the bar and said, “I best be getting back to the bar and started to turn away then said.
(74)
“Any time you went a beer the first one is on the house.” “Thanks.” Henry harried and finish his beer, as he look around he could see some of the men putting their heads together and talking low, and as Henry didn’t went any trouble he got up and headed for the door once outside he took in some fresher air and head for the hotel.
When he entered the hotel he went up to the desk clerk and asks for his key. As he started for the stairs he heard his name being called, “Mr. Miller? “ Henry was careful about his movements on turning around the Wong kind could get one killed. After he turns around he saw the badge. “Marshal” He said, “Lets talk and pointed to a chair and as he had his hand on his gun he know it wasn’t an invitation. “What can I do for you marshal?” The marshal said, “Well you could tell me why you are here in town?” Henry answered, “No reason your town is the first one I came to.” “Then you’re not looking for anyone officially?” Henry said, “No I’m retired, and I never been to Texas so I though I would look the country over.” “Then you won’t be staying long?” Henry looked at him and said, “Marshal Sounds like you don’t want me in your town?” “It’s not you it’s the repudiation that came with you.” Henry said, “Marshal I’m not here to start trouble I just went to be left alone.” “That’s my hope as well.” Henry stood up and asked, “Any thing else?” “No that’s it.” Henry turns and headed for his room.
Bill entered the office Joel and Mat were at their desks they looked up as he came in and in one voice said, ” Well.” Bill shows them three peaces of paper. “I have a few more answers.” Every since Bill found out about that forged land deed he’s been sending out inquiry’s all over country, he had to find out what Henry had been upto. Bill looked at the letters he had and said, “Well it seems that every town he’s been at he would have the News Papers hold their back issues for him, and the post office always had a sack of mail waiting for him.” Joel said, “I didn’t see anything like that going on here?” Mat also said he hadn’t seen anything. Bill said, “Maybe he didn’t go to draw any attention to himself at any town he had to stay at very long.” Bill went on. “Will for what ever reason he had, it’s beginning to look like are Henry wasn’t as honest as we thought he was.” Although none of them could believe it, Bill had to find the answer.
The next morning Henry left the hotel and headed up town looking for some breakfast.
After he found the restaurant he was looking for he went in and took a table next to the window. A young lady came and asked, “Mr. Miller the same? “ In the last two months he had taken most of his meals here. “Yes please?” He sat there watching the world go by while he waited. Henry heard his name and looked up thinking it was his breakfast. It was the bartender from the Red Tail saloon. “John.” He said, “I came for some eats before heading over to the bar.” Henry nodded and went back to looking out the window.
Henry had decided last night it was time to move on but wasn’t sure which way to head. After he had finished he turned to John and ask. “John you been around this parts for a while? “ “Yes about five years why?” Henry said, “I’m heading out but I’m not sure the way to head? Is there a town or a place that may be of interests near by? “John looked into his coffee for a moment then said.
(75)
“Why yes, “Mad Dog “may be to your liking.” John saw the look on Henry face and said, “It’s not what you think the town’s real name is Restful, but a few years ago they had a pack of mad dogs, then after they kill them off the name just stuck.” Henry asked, “Just where is this town,” “day and a half rides do west.” “Thanks I may look it over.”
Henry had been gone about two day’s when a man went to the desk clerk and asked. “Is there a Henry Miller staying here?” The clerk said, “There was upto two day’s ago.” The man turned and went back out to the street. On the street the man looked up and down the street trying to deiced what to do next, then he saw a sign that read “ Red Tail Saloon “ and headed that way.
Henry had entered “ Mad Dog “ and was looking for the stables as he rode through the town he decided he like the looks of it and thought he may stay a while. After he entered the stable a man came upto him and asked what he needed. Henry said he would like to house his horse for a few days and have his shoes looked after. The man said, “Sure, its two bit’s a day and four bits for any shoes you may need.” Henry said that would be fine then asked where a good place to eat was. “Marylou’s” and pointed the way. Henry headed that way and up on entering he found the place clean and the food smell good. Henry found a table and waited. He had taken a table by a window as he looked out he could see some activity on the main street, although not like you would see in a bigger town but for one this size they would call it busy. After eating he stood on the walkway looking up and down the street trying deiced what to do next. Upon deciding he headed for the only hotel in town. Henry went up to the clerk and asked, “You have any rooms to rent?” The clerk asked, “How long?” Henry though a moment then said, “A week.” He signed the book then the clerk handed him his key. On entering the room he found it clean, he went to the window and open it, then laid out on the bed. There was a nice breeze coming from the window and it was so quiet he could hear the songs of the birds. He closed his eyes and listened soon the songs would put him to sleep.
After waking up he saw it was dark, he looked at his watch and saw it was after 7 o’clock.
He got up and put water on face, then felt his stomach and though he could eat. He remember a sign on “Marylou’s “door saying they closed at 9’ o’clock so he had time. He went about the room doing what little business needed to be done then headed for some fresh air. Out on the walkway he stood a moment then stretch out his arms and took a deep breath of fresh air then headed for something to eat. Having eaten he thought he would like something stronger then coffees to rinse it all drown. He looked around and saw only two saloons in town and headed their way. As he neared one he heard a lot of music and voices from inside, but the one drown the street had little sound coming from it he headed that way.
On entering he saw a few men sitting at tables and one or two at the bar. He went to the bar and ordered whisky and took a table and seat with his back to the wall. The bartender came up and asked if there was anything else? Henry said, “It’s awful quite here.”
(76)
“That’s because I have no girls nor do I allow gambling.” Henry’s eyes went up, and asked way. “ I can’t afford the girls, I used to have gambling then a few years ago we had a big brawl that like to put me out of business, besides some men like to have their drink in peace and quite.” Henry took a sip of his drink and started thinking that he was likening this town more and more.
Mr. Owens was in town getting supplies at the General Store, while there the clerk handed him two letters one was address to June the other to him. He looked at the return address and saw they were from Bill. Now why would Bill be sending me a letter? He always sent all his information through June. As he had more business to take of he didn’t take the time to read it then. When the buggy was loaded with supplies Owens took out the letter and began to read; Mr. Owens this is official business you are not to reveal any information contained with in, to June nor Henry nor any one else. One, Have you ever see or heard anything that would lead you to believe that Mr. Henry Miller may have had other dealings going on other then marshaling while staying at the Boarding House. Two, you are to proceed to Boyedville, Knob and Paragould and inquire into his dealings. If any one asks why all question just say you’re a friend. Mr. Owens I could have done all this through official channels, but as Henry is are friend I do not wish to cause him any undo trouble. Signed United State Marshal Bill Anderson.
Mr. Owens though to himself, well that’s as official as you can get. He reread the letter and put it back into his pocket. Will there no time like the present he went about town and casually asked questions and when he thought he found out all the information he could he boarded his buggy and headed for the town of Knob. After being in Knob a couple of hours he had all the information he would get so he headed back to the boarding house he know that June would be worrying about him. Back at the boarding house June helped him unload buggy. June said, “I was beginning worry about you.” “I had some unexpected business to take care of in town. She gave him a look but he didn’t respond to it. “June I have business to attend to in Paragould, can you handle it here a couple days alone?” “Yes.” And she gave him that look again and again he did not respond.
After the supplies were all put away Mr. Owens handed June a letter and said, “From Bill.” ” June took a chair open it and began to read. “Bill, Joel and Mat all say Hi, Bill says he hasn’t heard anything from Henry but knows he’s alright or he would have heard by now. June read on then she said, “Bill says he is really enjoying being marshal.” June finish the letter and read it again. After she was done she put it in apron pocket and said it was time to start supper, on that Mr. Owens went back to the bar. At supper Mr. Owens asked, “June when you and Henry went to town did he or you see him do any type of business?” “No not really I mean if you can call going the Post Office and the News Paper, business.” “Although that time we went to Paragould he had some real business there he had some freight waiting for him, he had it taken to the warehouse there and paid a years rent on it.”
(77)
The next morning Mr. Owens headed for Paragould, but as he neared the old camp site he turn off the road and headed for it. He took the buggy in as far as it would go then walked the rest of the way. As he entered he could see that the camp was bear, after looking and finding nothing he started to leave then he noticed the fire pit and went to it. He started to poke around and found some charred pieces of paper. Some pieces had writing on them things like, “Would like more on land.” He put them away for safe keeping. He went back to the buggy and turn to the main road and head on to Paragould.
Henry found it was after 9 o’clock when he left the bar. He decided to wander about town but soon found that most businesses were closed, and as he couldn’t see much he turn and headed back to the hotel. When he woke up the next morning he found he had over slept after getting dressed he left the hotel he headed for Mary Lou’s. When he had finished eating he went about looking the town over. The town was laid out in a Y. in all there was about thirty businesses. As he walked along he would look in the windows of some businesses and went into some others he passed by. At the end of Main Street he had to make a decision he could either turn right or left, he decided to go right. When he came to the end of the street there was a large church which was surrounded by an Iron fence with an arch gate.
When he went through the gate he was confronted by a large court yard filled with flowers and religious statues He took a deep breath and calmness came over him he looked about and saw a bench under a large shade and took a seat. His mind begin to wander, he didn’t know how long he had been seating there till he was brought back to reality by the words of, “May I help you my son?” Henry had been in so deep in thought that he almost jumped out of his skin. “Sorry my son I didn’t mean to frighten you so.” Henry looked up and saw who it was and said. “That’s ok Father, I was just admiring the flowers and got lost in thought.” He put out his hand and said, “They call me Father Paul.” Henry took it and said, “Father, Paul.” Henry looked in his eyes and saw wisdom in them. He said, “Sorry I’m not of the faith I just have a thing for parks and flowers.” Father Paul said, “You looked as to have troubling thoughts.” “It’s a long story and I don’t time to tell it to day.” The Father said. “Will you may stop by and talk or just enjoy the flowers any time.”
Henry did come back and over the next two weeks he and Father Paul would talk among the flowers. As the days went by Henry could fell a heavy burden was being lifted off his shoulders and calmness take its place? Henry made a few new friends in town and found he could talk more freely with out having to think about what he was saying. Father Paul was helping him to understand that there was more to life then just being a man. Like Father Paul said. “ Yes one is expected to be a man however if a man is beaten down by those expectations, till there is no calmness or a bit of a child left in him, then he will never be a hole man, and no good to himself or any one else.”
When he went through the gate he was confronted by a large court yard filled with flowers and religious statues He took a deep breath and calmness came over him he looked about and saw a bench under a large shade and took a seat. His mind begin to wander, he didn’t know how long he had been seating there till he was brought back to reality by the words of, “May I help you my son?” Henry had been in so deep in thought that he almost jumped out of his skin. “Sorry my son I didn’t mean to frighten you so.” Henry looked up and saw who it was and said. “That’s ok Father, I was just admiring the flowers and got lost in thought.” He put out his hand and said, “They call me Father Paul.” Henry took it and said, “Father, Paul.” Henry looked in his eyes and saw wisdom in them. He said, “Sorry I’m not of the faith I just have a thing for parks and flowers.” Father Paul said, “You looked as to have troubling thoughts.” “It’s a long story and I don’t time to tell it to day.” The Father said. “Will you may stop by and talk or just enjoy the flowers any time.”
Henry did come back and over the next two weeks he and Father Paul would talk among the flowers. As the days went by Henry could fell a heavy burden was being lifted off his shoulders and calmness take its place? Henry made a few new friends in town and found he could talk more freely with out having to think about what he was saying. Father Paul was helping him to understand that there was more to life then just being a man. Like Father Paul said. “ Yes one is expected to be a man however if a man is beaten down by those expectations, till there is no calmness or a bit of a child left in him, then he will never be a hole man, and no good to himself or any one else.”
(78)
In the beginning of the second week Henry found himself talking more and joking more with his friends and even enjoying a participle joke now and then. Now when he takes his afternoon rides he saw the country side differently not as a man would see it, but that of a child, no not a child but as a young man ready to explore a new world.
The second week was at an end and it was time to say goodbye to Father Paul. “So Henry you found what you were like for.” “Yes Father, I have it was within me all this time I just needed someone to help me see it.” “Well I’m sorry to see you go I have enjoyed are talks together.” Henry said, “You never know I may be back some day.” “Well if you ever do I’ll be here and maybe we can enjoy are talks again?” “So long Father Paul.”
The stranger just came out of the Red Tail Saloon and stood on the walkway trying to decide what to do. He said to himself, “So now he’s in Mad Dog, but will he be there when I got there, Texas is to big to be running all over the country, looking for him I need to form some kind of plan to bring him to me.” He stood there thing then turned and headed back into the Red Tail to from his plan. When he came out again he had formed a plan, he stood for a moment then headed up the street. At the train station he asked the clerk for a ticket for Oklahoma, City, he could have went straight into Reno but if he was seen he would ether would be killed or arrested, no it would be best if he went to Oklahoma, City then back track to Reno.
After Mr. Owens arrived at Paragould he went about asking questions and soon found that Henry pretty much kept to himself. Henrys routine here was the same as the other towns. Mr. Owens had to be careful on how he asked question, for Henry was well known and like here. Mr. Owens last stop was at the freight station and with a little money and a little prodding he was able to find out the return address on the freight. Now that he had all the information he would get he headed up the street to send a wire to Reno.
Bill and Mat looked up as Joel came into the office carrying a hand full of letters and handed them Bill. “Well now let’s see what we got?” He went through them one by one then he saw an address on one that caught his eye and read the address. “Will I’ll be it’s from Mr. Owens from Paragould.” Bill opened the letter and begin to read; To Marshal Bill Anderson, Sir. I have been to all the towns within reach of Boydsville, Arkansas, having found that Mr. Henry Miller for the most part has stayed out of trouble and hasn’t done any business here. His routine on his visits were to the Post Office and News Paper. I have also been to the camp site, found little there, however I did find in the fire pit some burnt letters with some writing on them asking about land? I also found out that in Paragould he had some freight sent to him it’s now housed at the store house paid a years rent on it, the return address was Mr. John Johnson, Reno Oklahoma, This is all there is to be found, Signed, Mr. Owens, Boydsville, Arkansas.
The second week was at an end and it was time to say goodbye to Father Paul. “So Henry you found what you were like for.” “Yes Father, I have it was within me all this time I just needed someone to help me see it.” “Well I’m sorry to see you go I have enjoyed are talks together.” Henry said, “You never know I may be back some day.” “Well if you ever do I’ll be here and maybe we can enjoy are talks again?” “So long Father Paul.”
The stranger just came out of the Red Tail Saloon and stood on the walkway trying to decide what to do. He said to himself, “So now he’s in Mad Dog, but will he be there when I got there, Texas is to big to be running all over the country, looking for him I need to form some kind of plan to bring him to me.” He stood there thing then turned and headed back into the Red Tail to from his plan. When he came out again he had formed a plan, he stood for a moment then headed up the street. At the train station he asked the clerk for a ticket for Oklahoma, City, he could have went straight into Reno but if he was seen he would ether would be killed or arrested, no it would be best if he went to Oklahoma, City then back track to Reno.
After Mr. Owens arrived at Paragould he went about asking questions and soon found that Henry pretty much kept to himself. Henrys routine here was the same as the other towns. Mr. Owens had to be careful on how he asked question, for Henry was well known and like here. Mr. Owens last stop was at the freight station and with a little money and a little prodding he was able to find out the return address on the freight. Now that he had all the information he would get he headed up the street to send a wire to Reno.
Bill and Mat looked up as Joel came into the office carrying a hand full of letters and handed them Bill. “Well now let’s see what we got?” He went through them one by one then he saw an address on one that caught his eye and read the address. “Will I’ll be it’s from Mr. Owens from Paragould.” Bill opened the letter and begin to read; To Marshal Bill Anderson, Sir. I have been to all the towns within reach of Boydsville, Arkansas, having found that Mr. Henry Miller for the most part has stayed out of trouble and hasn’t done any business here. His routine on his visits were to the Post Office and News Paper. I have also been to the camp site, found little there, however I did find in the fire pit some burnt letters with some writing on them asking about land? I also found out that in Paragould he had some freight sent to him it’s now housed at the store house paid a years rent on it, the return address was Mr. John Johnson, Reno Oklahoma, This is all there is to be found, Signed, Mr. Owens, Boydsville, Arkansas.
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Bill read the letter again then placed it on the desk and pointed at it and said, “Damn it all to hell, boys we got trouble.” Mat and Joel came over to the desk and read it together when they were done, Mat said, “Oh! Howdy.” Joel looked at Bill and Asked, “Well Bill what are you going to do?” Bill said, “I don’t know just yet, but I’m going out to Mr. Johnson place and take a look around.” The next morning Bill told Mat that he would be back around noon, and then headed for the Johnson place. When he reached the house he found it all lock up and with out a court order he would not enter he stood a bit then headed around back.
There wasn’t much in back then he saw the tool shed door was open and headed for it, after entering he saw tools lined the walls then something on a table caught his eye and went over to it. What ever it was it was all covered up, after uncovering it he begin to look it over on closer inspection he saw a plate in the machine. On the plate were some letters the plate was hard to read as they were all backwards. He kept working at it and after a while he knew what it said, it was a copy of a land deed. Bill looked around the shed and found nothing more. He covered the machine back up and upon leaving the shed he shut the door then said to himself, Henry what in the hell are you into.
On the way back to the boarding house Mr. Owens was wondering what he was going to tell June for she would be full of questions, damn you Henry Miller. Mr. Owens was saying to himself, I should have trusted my first instincts about him, but he is now my friend but even so I see he is a man not to be really trusted, I told June he would break her heart someday and it looks like I may be right.
After leaving Mad Dog Henry had planed to head for Wichita Falls, then on to Arkansas and back to June like he promised but as he rode this new calmness had given him a new way of seeing and the curiosity of youth and well hell she gave him a year, he smile to himself turned his horse and headed south and rode into a new adventure.
“Well? Mat asked, “What did you find out at the old Johnson place?” Henry said, “Looks like more trouble.” Then he told Mat and Joel what he found. Joel asked, “Well what are you going to do about it.” Henry said, “For now nothing we don’t know if he has done anything wrong.” Mat said, “That’s true we have no proof.” “And till we do well keep this all quiet and to are self’s.” Both Mat and Joel nodded their heads and went back to work.
Henry had been riding in and out of towns for a month now and had not found one as good as Mad Dog, all the while he had been working his way back to Wichita Falls. Henry had rode in valleys dry creek beds and the range and found he was liking this country more and more he was glad he decided not to work his land scheme here as he may need a place of refuge. The town of Big Rock was coming into view he would stop and see if they had a wire office and if so he would send one to Bill, and tell him he would be head back that way.
There wasn’t much in back then he saw the tool shed door was open and headed for it, after entering he saw tools lined the walls then something on a table caught his eye and went over to it. What ever it was it was all covered up, after uncovering it he begin to look it over on closer inspection he saw a plate in the machine. On the plate were some letters the plate was hard to read as they were all backwards. He kept working at it and after a while he knew what it said, it was a copy of a land deed. Bill looked around the shed and found nothing more. He covered the machine back up and upon leaving the shed he shut the door then said to himself, Henry what in the hell are you into.
On the way back to the boarding house Mr. Owens was wondering what he was going to tell June for she would be full of questions, damn you Henry Miller. Mr. Owens was saying to himself, I should have trusted my first instincts about him, but he is now my friend but even so I see he is a man not to be really trusted, I told June he would break her heart someday and it looks like I may be right.
After leaving Mad Dog Henry had planed to head for Wichita Falls, then on to Arkansas and back to June like he promised but as he rode this new calmness had given him a new way of seeing and the curiosity of youth and well hell she gave him a year, he smile to himself turned his horse and headed south and rode into a new adventure.
“Well? Mat asked, “What did you find out at the old Johnson place?” Henry said, “Looks like more trouble.” Then he told Mat and Joel what he found. Joel asked, “Well what are you going to do about it.” Henry said, “For now nothing we don’t know if he has done anything wrong.” Mat said, “That’s true we have no proof.” “And till we do well keep this all quiet and to are self’s.” Both Mat and Joel nodded their heads and went back to work.
Henry had been riding in and out of towns for a month now and had not found one as good as Mad Dog, all the while he had been working his way back to Wichita Falls. Henry had rode in valleys dry creek beds and the range and found he was liking this country more and more he was glad he decided not to work his land scheme here as he may need a place of refuge. The town of Big Rock was coming into view he would stop and see if they had a wire office and if so he would send one to Bill, and tell him he would be head back that way.
(80)
The stranger cast a shadow on the wire office wall as he tried to get a better listen, “Joseph take this over to the Marshals Office, sounds important it’s about Henry Miller.”
The stranger waited till the boy Joseph was out of sight, and then headed up the street after him. As he neared the Marshal Office the stranger headed into the alley, so he could come around the side of the office as not to be seen. The stranger bent down below an open window as not to be seen and listen. “Joseph what’s you got?” Bill asked as Joseph handed him the letter. Bill looked at the return it was from Big Rock Texas, he know this could only be from Henry. Bill begin to read the letter; To, Marshal Bill Anderson, Bill I’m heading back your way at the end of next month I’m thinking of spending a few days there before heading towards Arkansas, see you soon your friend Henry Miller. Mat was in the office when the letter came and asked, “What’s up?” Bill said, “Henry is on his way back, and well be staying a few days.” “What we going to do or say about this other mess?” “Not a damn thing we don’t know that he has done anything wrong yet, and as he’s are friend I will be glad to see him again.” The stranger pulled himself from the wall, so the grate Henry Miller is coming back; he put on a smile then turn and faded back into the darkness.
Earlier that morning Henry had stopped under a large shade tree to get out of the direct sunlight as it got hot on the planes early in this country. The tree sat at the base of a small range of mountains, Henry put his hand on his forehead to shade his eyes from the sun then tilted his head back to get a better look at the tops. Henry had spent all his time on the planes now it was time to see what the higher ground had to offer, although the mountains looked close it would be another full day before he reach them. Later the next day found him riding through a meadow of knee high grass toped off in a sea of yellow and white wildflowers, a small creek ran through the meadow Henry stopped to fill his canteen and let his horse take a drink, as he stood there he looked out into what was almost an endless sea of grass. As he rode he was beginning to make out the outline of the tree line that would take him higher he would camp there tonight. Henry had just finished dinner and was laid out on the bed roll, as he laid there his eyes turn to the night sky it was a endless sky filled with bright stars, as he laid there he began to think of June, he though of her and his promise to her, yes he said he loved her and he did but in a way that was hard for him to describe, but was it enough for him to stay, his eyes began to tire and as he close them in sleep he still had June on his mind.
“Mr. Owens I’m going out for a little while“, after she left the boarding house she headed for the open field as she always did at this time of night, when she reached the tree she used as shade in the day she took her seat. She sat there looking out over the field watching the shadows play their games. June looked up at the night sky it was filled with an endless sea of stars, as she stared over the field she did so, so hard that she could almost see him riding across the field and coming to her. June loved Henry every much and she hoped he felt the same, he said he did and would keep his promise to return to her, but was her love for him strong enough to hold him.
(81)
Henry had been winding in and out the trees about three hours, when he came across a clearing in the trees he stopped and looked out, far below was the valley he had left far behind, the valley could only be seen as a solid green mass with a crooked blue ribbon running through it, Henry turn his horse and headed for the next rise. He had ridden another two hours when he came to another rise he stopped and looked down into a valley that lay before him. The valley that laid before him looked like all the valleys he had passed the last two days, but as he looked over the valley he could tell there was something different, yes the valleys floor was green like the others and had a river that was larger then the others, but there was something else different, there were puffs of color on the valleys floor. Henry knew this could only mean that there was some kind of civilization in the valley. He stood and looked down trying to decide whether to go forward or turn away. He saw that the sun was setting; he didn’t like the idea of spending another night on the mountain, as the air up this high would get very cold. He looked about then saw a trail that lead down the side of the mountain; he made up his mind and headed down the mountain. By the time he reached the floor it was almost dark and by the time he reached the settlement it was pitch black.
Henry had studied the lay of the land on his way down the mountain and knew this was the main part of the settlement and headed up the road if you could call it that it was more of a dirt trail. As he rode up the road he took in some of the signs which read “Cold Water” this and that, well at lest he knew were he was “Cold Water Texas.” Henry could hear voices coming from the buildings. He stopped in front of a building that had more noise then any other buildings he had passed, he look up at the sign he could barely make it out, one word was saloon. He tied up his horse then checked his guns to be sure they free and his shot-gun was ready for use.
As Henry entered twenty-five heads turned his way, the room was filled with smoke and lamp oil, it took a moment for his eyes to adjust to it, he headed for the bar if you could call it that, the bar was two barrels with a plank on it, the man that stood behind the bar said, “Yah.” Henry looked around and saw no beer “Whiskey.” The bartender looked Henry up and down, “You’re a low lander?” Henry knew he looked out of place, as all the other men were dressed in heavy wool coats and shirts. Henry answered, “Just riding through, is there a place a man can put up a night or two?” The man answered, “Maybel’s, out the door turn left, at the end of the street go right then strait ahead you can’t miss it.” Henry turned and found an empty table and took a seat next to the wall if you could call it that. The saloon was more a tent then a building he had seen many of this kind before, this settlement was a boom town and as the top half of the buildings were made of tents it hadn’t been here long. After leaving the saloon Henry headed for Maybel’s it wasn’t hard to find, it was a large tent with a wooden door on the side of the tent wall was a sign that stated this was Maybel’s on the sign were prices that started at ten dollars a night but was now crossed out, there was a number of figures all crossed out till it read two dollars, it was the same for meals it started at two dollars and end at twenty-five cents.
Henry had studied the lay of the land on his way down the mountain and knew this was the main part of the settlement and headed up the road if you could call it that it was more of a dirt trail. As he rode up the road he took in some of the signs which read “Cold Water” this and that, well at lest he knew were he was “Cold Water Texas.” Henry could hear voices coming from the buildings. He stopped in front of a building that had more noise then any other buildings he had passed, he look up at the sign he could barely make it out, one word was saloon. He tied up his horse then checked his guns to be sure they free and his shot-gun was ready for use.
As Henry entered twenty-five heads turned his way, the room was filled with smoke and lamp oil, it took a moment for his eyes to adjust to it, he headed for the bar if you could call it that, the bar was two barrels with a plank on it, the man that stood behind the bar said, “Yah.” Henry looked around and saw no beer “Whiskey.” The bartender looked Henry up and down, “You’re a low lander?” Henry knew he looked out of place, as all the other men were dressed in heavy wool coats and shirts. Henry answered, “Just riding through, is there a place a man can put up a night or two?” The man answered, “Maybel’s, out the door turn left, at the end of the street go right then strait ahead you can’t miss it.” Henry turned and found an empty table and took a seat next to the wall if you could call it that. The saloon was more a tent then a building he had seen many of this kind before, this settlement was a boom town and as the top half of the buildings were made of tents it hadn’t been here long. After leaving the saloon Henry headed for Maybel’s it wasn’t hard to find, it was a large tent with a wooden door on the side of the tent wall was a sign that stated this was Maybel’s on the sign were prices that started at ten dollars a night but was now crossed out, there was a number of figures all crossed out till it read two dollars, it was the same for meals it started at two dollars and end at twenty-five cents.
(82)
Henry had seen this all before when a boom was on the prices were high and when it was over the prices came down, and by this sign this boom was over. A short stocky woman of about sixty-five answered to his knock. “Yes how may I help you young man?” Henry looked the woman over he like what he saw, she had a round face and eyes of gray that still held their sparkle that said she was still full of life. “I’m told you may have a bed? “ She looked at Henry and said, “It’s two-twenty-five a night with a meal.” Henry handed her five dollars, she took it with a smile and lead the way. She took Henry to the back of the tent there he found about fifteen cots; she pointed to them and said. “Take your pick,” then turned and left. Henry took one in the far corner, after putting his belongings under the cot he laid out, this was better then the cold hard ground but not by much, but a lest it would be a lot warmer. As Henry laid on his back he looked to the top of the tent and started to think of June, his thoughts of her were interrupted by the clap of thunder, then the rain began. He laid there listening to the sound of the rain hitting the tent, soon his eyes tired and was soon a sleep.
June went about her work but from time to time would stop and got a far away look in her eyes. Mr. Owens saw the look and said, “June quit worrying you’ll just make yourself sick he’ll be back.” June said, “But it’s been almost eight months now.” Mr. Owens said, “True but you gave him a year and it’s no over yet.” June went back work then stopped a short time later. “Why did he have to leave, to find something he lost and doesn’t know what, or where to find it?” Mr. Owens just smiled, and said, “ As a man gets older some times he feels that some how he’s lost something and goes looking for what he knows not, only to find out he was carrying it inside himself all the time.”
June looked at Mr. Owens with questioning eyes. Mr. Owens went on, “Many men go looking for what they thought they had lost and many will not find it, the lucky ones will come to realize that they were carrying it all the time.” Mr. Owens said, “Women go through the same thing but go about it in a different way.” June had stopped working and had taken a seat and was listening to what he was saying and all the while she was thinking. “Then your talking about old age” “Yes.” June said, “But he didn’t have to leave to find that out.” “Yes he did no one could tell him, he has to find it out for himself, and until he realizes he had lost nothing he may never return.” June just seat there thinking then she finely said, “Your talking about getting his youth back but no one can do that.” Mr. Owens said nothing he just stood there staring into space, then came back to the moment and said, “ No that’s true the feelings are still there but buried deep in side one self and until he fines a way to bring them back, well.” “Oh god he’s not coming back.”
Henry woke with a start for a moment he didn’t know, where he was then it all came back to him. He got up and seat on the bed and let his mind clear, the rumbling in his stomach said he was hungry and the smell of food some where out side the tent didn’t help, after getting ready he head for the smell. Once out side he saw Maybel working around a fire, there was a long table set for breakfast. He went up to her and asked a question she turned and pointed to the back of the tent, after he returned from his duty’s he was even hungrier.
(83)
Maybel put a plate in front of him and said, venison stew, sorry it’s all I have no supplies coming in, but it will stick to your ribs. When he was done he decided to look over the settlement, as he walked about he could tell from the signs on the ground there had been many tents, but now only a few remained. Henry soon found out why the settlement was there gold had been found and the rush was on, that was a little over two years ago, but the gold soon played out, some stayed still hoping to get rich, but now realize it won’t happen, and now with no supplies coming in and with winter coming on they too will be forced out of the valley.
Henry learned he had forty miles and two mountain ranges before hitting the low lands. Henry spent part of the day watching the men work and talked to some of the women and even played with some of the children. Around noon he went back to Maybel’s for more stew, while setting there he suddenly realized the valley was consistently being filled with the roar of the river. He said something to Maybel about it, she just smiled and said, “You get used to it, it’s when you don’t hear it you better watch out.” “Oh.” “Last Spring the roaring just stop, we just made it to the mountain before the valley filled with three feet of water, we had to spend four days on the mountain before we could come down again.”
Later that afternoon he took a ride through the valley and rode along the river. The valley empty out into a wide canyon, there were only two ways into the valley through the canyon or over the mountains, Henry decided to ride up the mountain, when reached the spot where he first saw the valley he dismounted. He went to the edge and let his legs dangle into open space, as he seat there his thoughts went to June and how she would love to be here. As he seat there and looked over the valley a picture began to form in his mind he saw a Indian village, then it turned to grazing buffalo, a few months ago he won’t have seen these pictures, he took in a deep breath of fresh air and smiled. Henry began to see dark shadows being cast on the valley floor, he got up and remounted his horse and head back into the valley.
It was almost dusk by the time Henry reached the valley, after attending to his horse, he headed for Maybel’s to see if any stew was left, on his way he saw campfires being started and lamps coming on. When he reached Maybel’s she looked him up and down then said, “Looks like you had an enjoyable day.” “How can you tell that?” She answered, “Well for one thing you have a smile on.” “Oh.” She said, “There’s some stew left care for some?” Henry handed over his plate. After he had finish he went about the settlement, stopping now and then to talk to some men, he finely ended up in front of the tent with the faded saloon sign; he looked about then stepped inside.
When Henry entered only a few heads turned as he was known in camp now. Henry went up to the bar, “Jack, Whiskey.” He took his drink and went to a table, as he enjoyed his drink he saw a card game starting up.
(84)
Henry seat there watching the game, he had thought of joining the game, then though better of it, as card games and drink don’t mix, and he didn’t need any trouble. As the evening wore on the chairs started to empty, until there was only two men left. Henry had been watching the game all evening, and there was something about the game but he just couldn’t but his finger on it. Henry kept on watching then he saw it, the dealer was cheating. Henry started watching the dealer and after a while he had it all figured out, but said noting but kept on watching. Henry could see that the man who was losing was getting madder and madder.
Henry knew it won’t be long before he said something, and he was right. The loser jump up and took a step back and said, “Jim you son-of-a- bitch your cheating.” Jim spoke, “You’re calling me a cheat?” “Your damn right I am, I just don’t know how but I know you are.” Henry could see this could turn deadly and he just couldn’t let that happen, for the loser had no gun but Jim did, Henry got up and went over to the table and said, “Jim you been cheating all evening and you know it.” Jim said, “Mister what business is this of yours?” Henry answered, “None but you’re wearing a gun and he’s not, I can’t let you shoot an unarmed man.” Most of the men were around the table now.
One of the men in the back came forward and said. “Mister your name won’t happen to be Henry Miller from Kansas would it?” “Yes.” “I thought so I saw you kill two men in Kansas City, gentlemen this is Marshal Miller.” Henry said, “Gentlemen it’s ex-marshal now.” The man spoke, “Being you have been a marshal you have see a lot of cheats?” Henry answered, “Yes I can spot most cheats after a while and Jim here was cheating.” The man asked, “Can you tell us how?” Henry went to the table and took the deck of cards and said, “You all seen how Jim dealt the cards, was it like this.” and he moved his hand away from the candle, “Or like this and moved his hand closer to the candle.
The man said, “His hand was always next to the candle.” Most all the men in the room seem too agreed. Henry said, “This is how it’s done, see the pool of melted candle wax.” and he passed a card over it and they all saw what the card was. The man said, “Well I’ll be damn he’s using the melted wax as a mirror.” Henry said, “Yes that way he knew what each man got.” The man spoke up, “Joseph your nothing but a cheat, ok boys take Jim out.” Henry started to say something, but the man held up his hand and said, “Don’t worry marshal no harm well come to him he’ll be held til tomorrow, then ran him out of the settlement. After the men had left Henry too, left and headed for Maybel’s to get a good night rest for he was to leave this peaceful valley tomorrow.
The next morning Henry spent a few hours saying his fair well’s to some of the men and women he had made friends with, he also saw that Jim was still in camp. Later he ran into the man he had talked to last night and asked about Jim. “Well we were going to run him out but then his wife started to crying and begging us not to, so we let him stay but he’ll be watched.” Henry said. “Well that up to you, but kept in mind that if he knows one way to cheat he knows other ways.”
(85)
Being done with his business he went and got his horse, his last stop was Maybel’s, he went inside and got his belongings, back outside he went up to Maybel to say good by. He found her fixing the noon meal. She said, “Well son I’m sorry to see you go and gave him a big hug. “Maybe I’ll head this way again.” She said, “By the time you get back this way, the valley will be empty for good.” Henry said, “that’s too bad, where will you go?’ “ Oh another valley or town, don’t worry well all make out just fine.” Henry gives her one last hug then had to turn away as there were tears in his eyes and he didn’t know way. He took to his horse and rode across the valley floor for the last time and entered the canyon.
Henry had been on the trail for two weeks when reached the outer limits of Wichita Falls. Henry took care of his horse, and then headed for the hotel, up on entering he saw the same clerk, and he went up to the desk and asked for a room. “Yes Mr. Mill, would like the same room you had last?” “That would be fine.” As Henry turn to leave the clerk asked, “Oh by the way did you friend ever catch up to you?’ Henry turned back and asked, “What friend.” “Oh around a month ago this gentleman came in and asked about you then left.” Henry asked, “What did he look like.” The clerk told him. “Has he been in lately?” “No that was the first and last time I seen him.” Henry thanked the clerk and headed for his room. When he entered the room He went to the window and looked out then he started pacing the floor he had to think.
Then was only one man Henry knew by that description the clerk give. Henry thought to himself it could only be the stranger, but how in the hell did he know to look for him here? Henry readied his room then left the hotel out side he headed for the restaurant he know, after taken his table he like the waitress came up and said. “Well Mr. Mill it’s been a while would like you’re usual?” “Yes.” While he enjoyed his meal he looked out the Widow, thinking he may see some one he knew like maybe the stranger. Back out side again he stood on the walkway and looked about, nothing in Wichita had changed the people were still going every which way. Then he spotted a sign he knew and headed that way. Henry stood in the door way and looked inside, he saw John behind the bar; he entered the Red Tail Saloon.
John looked up and saw Henry and said, “Well I’ll be damn if it isn’t Henry Miller.” Henry said, “Beer.” John said, “Remember the first one is on the house.” “Thanks.” Henry took a table and sit with his back to the wall. When John brought his beer he pointed to a chair and Henry gave a nod. Although Henry didn’t like him much he thought he could get some news out of him. John took a sip of his drink that he had brought with him then asked, “Did you ever find Mad Dog?” “Yes it was a nice town.”
John said, “Oh before I forget there was a guy in a while back looking for you.” “Oh.”
“Yes he said he was a friend of yours, so I told him were you went, did you see him?” “No” “To bad he acted like he really wanted to see you.” Henry asked, “Have you seen him lately?” “No that was the first time and the last time I seen of him.” Henry seat there thinking, he knew it had to be the stranger. Henry finished his beer and left the saloon, out side he stood and thought to himself, the stranger had been in town looking for him then he left, but where in the hell did he go, I don’t like this at all.
(86)
Henry went up the street to the wire office, he sent one to Bill, saying he would be in Reno in three days then he sent one to the town of Mad Dog. Wichita had a fine park and as it would be a while before he received an answer he headed that way. After enjoying the park he headed back to the hotel when he got there he found a letter waiting for him, he saw it was from Mad Dog. Henry open the wire and read, No one looking for you here all is quite, sign Father Paul.
Bill and Mat were on patrol when Joel met up with them, Marshal got a wire for you. Bill took it and looked it over he saw it was from Wichita Falls Texas. Bill read it then said, “Well boys it’s from Henry he’s in Wichita he’ll be here in four days. Mat said, “Boy it will be good to see him again.” That goes for me too Joel said. Bill said, “That goes for me too, now remember we say nothing about what we found out, he’s are friend and I don’t went to cause him any trouble and less there’s a need.” Bill asked, “Mat can you finish the patrol alone I need to send a wire.” “Sure Bill I can handle it.” Bill told Joel to head back to the office and he would meet him there later.
On the way to the wire off Bill’s mind was working, Henry is my friend and he saved my life more then once, but if we find he has been doing something against the law, I will have to bring him in I took a oath to up hold the law and if it comes down to it I will bring him in dead or a live. When Bill got back to the office he read the letter again an about the stranger, he didn’t like this at all there’s going to some big trouble. He hadn’t said anything in the letter to June for he didn’t went to worry her. Bill knew that when ever Henry and the stranger met up any one around Henry could be in real danger. Bill thought about it some more then told Joel he would be back and headed for the wire office again.
Mr. Owens was working at the bar when he heard the front door opened. “Well howdy Jim, it’s been a while.” “Yes it has the wife keeps me busy, how about a beer?” Jim and Mr. Owens talked for a while then Jim said he had better go or his wife would give him hell when he got home. Jim was almost to the door then turned back; he reached into his pocket and took out two letters and handed them to Mr. Owens. “I almost forgot to give you these; it’s why I stopped in the first place. “Thanks.” After Jim had left Mr. Owens looked at the two letters they were from Reno and one was addressed to him and June. The other was addressed to him this he put in his pocket for now. Mr. Owens called out, “June will you come here?” June came from the back. “Yes?” “We got a letter from Reno would you like to read it?” June answered, “Yes I would.” She took the letter and took a seat then opened it and began to read. “Oh Bill says Henry will be in Reno in four days then he’s going to stay for a week or so, then he’ll be heading our way.” Mr. Owens said. It will be nice to see him again.” “Nice, it will be grate, well I better get back to work.” as Mr. Owens watched June head back to the kitchen he thought her steps looked a little higher and he smiled to himself. After June had left Mr. Owens open the letter and read. Mr. Owens I didn’t put this in the first letter as I didn’t went to upset June, yes Henry is on his way back, but he says that the stranger is on the hunt again it seems that the stranger followed him to Texas.
(87)
Henry stated that he didn’t know how he found out but he did. Says he found out about it when he got back to Wichita Falls it seems that the stranger had been asking questions all over town about him, then he just up and disappeared. I thought I better let you know as we don’t know, just were he’ll turn up next. On this other business, that was official and not to be talk about to any one. When Henry heads back your way I’ll see if I can get some time off and come back with him, till then. Marshal Bill Anderson.
Later that evening before starting his patrol, Bill stopped at the Last Stop saloon for a beer. While enjoying his beer he saw Joel come in and he motion him over to the table. “Let’s have a talk.” Joel took a seat, “What about.” Bill answered, “About Henry coming back.” As they talked, back in a dark corner of the bar the strangers eyes opened wide and he leaned forward to hear better. As bill and Joel talked the stranger listen to every word, after a will they both get up and left. The stranger stayed to have another beer and while he was drinking he started to talk to himself, “Well Henry is coming back, will Bill looks like I won’t have to kill you after all.” It had been the strangers plan to kill Bill and let it be known that he did it, he know that would have brought Henry running back to Reno. The stranger lifted his glass in a salute and said, “This was your luck day Bill Anderson.”
After reading the letter Henry started for his room, “Mr. Miller.” Henry turned to the sound of his name and there stood the marshal. Henry asked, “Yes marshal what, can I do for you?” The marshal pointed to a chair Henry took it then the marshal asked, “How long are you going to be in town?” Henry answered, “Not long just for the night, I just get in from Cold Water, and now I’m heading back to Oklahoma.” “Cold Water never heard of it.” Henry said, “it was a boom town about two hundred miles out.” The marshal asked, “You say was.” “Gold played out.” The marshal went on, “I heard you were back in town and I also heard some one been asking around about you, you know any one looking for you?” Henry answered. “I only know one person, we call him the stranger.” The marshal looked at Henry with questioning eyes. Henry went on, “No one knows his name we just call him the stranger, he tried to kill me in Arkansas but missed then four times in Oklahoma, and we still don’t know way, he’s been trying to kill me but he’s not every good at it.” The marshal asked, “Have you see or heard from him.” No and if I had you would have known by now.” “Why’s that?” Henry said, “Because I would either be dead or he would be.” The marshal stood up “Just don’t miss your train.” He put out his hand Henry took it then the marshal turned and left. Henry went to his room, in it he found that his nerves were on edge he tried to rest on the bed, but the noise from the street kept him from doing so. He got up and looked out the window, then he looked around the room and found a chair that looked comfortable, and then he placed it next to the window and seat in it, then he blow out the lamp and waited for morning. Henry woke with a start then he realize he was still in the chair, he out stretch his arms and gave a big yawn, then he got up and started to walk around the room to take out the kinks.
(88)
After he finished getting ready for the day he left the room and headed for the front desk.
When he reached the desk he was given a letter, he took it then went outside. Once outside he took a bench in front of the hotel, he opened it and began to read. Henry haven’t seen or heard from the stranger, but the boys and I have been keeping a look out for him. I also wrote Mr. Owens and told him to keep a look out, as we don’t know where he’ll turn up. I also told him not to say anything about it to June; we don’t want to upset her if it can be helped, Signed. Marshal Bill Anderson. Henry didn’t like this, no one has heard from the stranger, but Henry knows he will show up sooner or later. He put the letter away then headed for breakfast, later after he left the restaurant he wander about town to see what he could see all the while he was heading towards the park. The park made him feel more at ease and reminded him of the talks he had with Father Paul.
After leaving the park he headed for the hotel then decided to stop at the Red Tail Saloon. John was behind the bar, Henry went to his table then John brought his beer, Henry looked around and said, “A little slow today.” John said, “Come back to night the place will be hopping.” “Maybe I will.” Henry finished his beer then ordered another after he had finished he headed over to the hotel. When left his room it was after 8 o’clock in the evening. He was almost to the door when he heard his name being call Henry turn to see the clerk holding up a letter he went to the desk and took it. “Thanks.” Outside Henry looked at the letter it was from Reno, thinking it was business he put it in his pocket and headed for dinner. After taking his table a waitress came up and asked, “Would you like your usual?” He started to say yes then changed his mind and said, I think I’ll have the chicken. When he was back outside he saw it was a little before nine and decided to walk up the street, later on his way back he started to pass the saloon, as he did he took a look inside. The place was full and John was behind the bar, as he started to pass John saw him and waved him in. Henry started to pass but changed his mind and step inside.
He looked around for a table as the one he liked was taken, evidently John had seen Henry looking for a table for he came up to him holding a beer and said, “This way I have a table for you.” John led him to a green felt table that sat in one corner and was block off. John said, “this is the bosses table and for special guests, people around here knows this is the bosses table so you won’t be messed with here they know better.” Henry took his seat and started to enjoy his drink. The bar was full and noisy so much so you could hardly hear the piano playing. Henry was enjoying himself, as men stopped at his table from time to time for small talk, Henry noticed that about four or five card games had started up, He was just finishing his last beer when he saw one of the men at one of the card games jump out of his chair, he could hardly hear what the men were saying. The man that had jump up seemed to be saying something like, “Mister your just too damn lucky,” the other was saying something like, “Well if you don’t like it the take your money to other game.” Henry had watched the game off and on through the evening but couldn’t tell who was dealing. Now that the chair was empty he could see who the dealer was, he couldn’t believe it, it was Jim from cold water. Henry thought to himself here’s trouble.
(89)
Henry looked for a candle on the table but there was none, he knows that Jim had to be cheating but he couldn’t see just how. Henry moved his chair so he could see between the payers. He didn’t see anything on the table; the only thing he saw was an open watch that was in front of him. Henry keeps watching him deal then after a while he saw how he was doing it. Henry looked towards the bar and finely got John’s attention and he came over. “Mr. Miller what can I get you?” Henry said, “John I want you to get someone to go find the marshal and bring him here.” John gives him a questioning look. Henry said, “I’ll tell you later, now hurry before someone gets killed.” John headed back to the bar, he thought to him self if Henry Miller wanted a marshal that’s what he was going to get. Back at the bar John walked to the end and said something to a man standing at the end and the man left in a hurry. John knew that if Shot-gun killing Miller was asking for a marshal he needed help. John eyed the shot gun under the bar; if Henry needed help before the marshal got there he would help him if he could.
Henry kept on watching the game, he could see the man that had jumped out of his chair was getting restless and he knew it may not be long before he was up and out of his chair again, and if that happen things could get deadly. It had been about forty-five minutes since someone left to find the marshal. Henry had just finish the last of his beer when he heard, ”You son-of a bitch, no one is that good.” Jim said, “Are you calling me a cheat.” “You’re damn right I am, let me see those cards.” Jim said, “You have to pay to see them.” Henry by now had made his way to the table and was standing behind the man. The man standing had a gun; Jim who was sitting may or may not have a gun Henry couldn’t tell. The man spoke again, “damn you let me see those cards.” Jim answered, “No I don’t think so.” The man said, “Then died.” and went for his gun. Henry step up and put the barrel of his gun over the man’s head and he fall to the floor out cold.
The men at the table started to stand but Henry moved his gun around and said, “Take your seats gentleman well wait for the marshal.” Henry turns his gun on Jim and said, “I see you’re at it again.” Jim at first couldn’t see who was standing behind the man but now he could and when he saw Henry he turn white and said, “marshal Miller.” “Well Jim I see you got caught again.” “Now marshal I wasn’t cheating.” Henry said, “Now Jim you know you were and would you like me to tell these men how.” “No.” “What in the hell is going on here.” Henry saw the marshal coming with his gun drawn, he put his gun away.
When the marshal saw Henry he said, “So it’s you I knew something like this would happen if you stayed in town to long, well let’s have it.” Henry said, “Well this here is Jim from Cold Water and he likes to cheat at cards.” “I caught him there and now his here, doing it again.” The marshal asked, are you sure?” “Yes I am given enough time I can always spot a cheat, and here’s how he did it.” Henry reached over and took the watch, and sat it before him. “See the inside of the watch cover, see how it shines.” Then he reached over and took a hand full of cards and passed them over the watch and as he did each card could be seen.
(90)
“Well I’ll be damn he used the watch as a mirror.” “Yes no one caught on because the watch always faced him.” The marshal pointed his gun at Jim and said, “all right Jim you’re coming with me and you to Henry.” When they came by the bar Henry said, “Hold it a second marshal.” Henry went up to John and said, “When he wakes up give him and pointed the man still on the floor, a beer on me and tell him how lucky he was to night.”
When they were outside the marshal said, “Hold up Jim, then turn to Henry “What time did you say you were catching the train?” Henry answered, “8 o’clock in the morning why?” The marshal answered, “Because I’m going to be there to see that you get on, now I want you to go to your hotel and stay there.” Then the marshal asked, “How did you get into this any way?” Henry said, “Well I saw Jim here cheating and I knew there maybe some shooting, and I didn’t went to be killed by a missed shot that would have ruined my day.” Then Henry smiled. Then the marshal said, “So you think this is all funny, well I’ll tell you what will be funny if you miss that train in the morning.” then he give Henry a hard look then poked Jim in the ribs and said, “Lets go.” Then turned and left Henry standing there. Henry thought to himself, the marshal had been right there wasn’t anything funny about it, he was just glad to have lived another day.
When Henry got to his room he took off his jacket, then remembered the letter he took it from his jacket and began to read, Friend I know when your coming and I’m waiting for you and you better hurry I can’t wait to long if you don’t come soon I may have to kill a friend of yours so you better hurry, signed a friend. Henry took a seat and reread the letter, He knew that his friends were ok so far or he would have head something by now, but that didn’t stop him from worrying.
The next morning Henry turned in his key and headed for the stables to see about his horse. After every thing was taken care of he headed for breakfast as he was leaving the restaurant, John step inside. John said, “I hear your leaving on the morning train.” “Yes.” John said, “Well if you head this way again, remember the first one is on the house.” “I’ll remember.”
As Henry already had his return ticket and had a little time left he headed for the park.
After enjoying the park, Henry started for the station. When he got there he found the marshal waiting. The marshal said, “Well I see you made it on time.” The marshal could see that Henry’s eyes were a little red and said, “Didn’t get much sleep last night?” Henry said, “I got this yesterday.” and gave him the letter. “Looks like your heading into trouble.” Henry said, “Yes, but I have to go.” “I know.” By now the train had arrived, Henry took the marshals hand. As Henry boarded the train it started to move, he found a seat and started to think, well back to Reno and maybe my death. It had been almost two days that Henry had been riding the train and in that time he was working on a plan on what to do.
(91)
Then decides it would safe to enter Reno in the daylight as the stranger always tried to kill him only at night. It was hard to get any rest on the train as it was always swaying from side to side. At the end of the second day the train stopped at a town that Henry couldn’t remember the name of, and as the train started to move again he heard his name being called. Henry turner around and there stood Mrs. Webber and her son Jimmy. Henry said, “Well Mrs. Webber how nice to see you and you too Jimmy.” Here take a seat; they took seats a cross from Henry. Mrs. Webber brought Henry up to date on the doings in Reno and Jimmy added some of his stories also. Henry told some stories of Texas, and before they know it they were entering Reno.
Bill was more on edge now as the trains arrival was near. Bill had Joel and Mat patrolling the area. They had been patrolling the town all day looking places for an ambush. Bill thought Henry would be safe arriving in the day as the stranger always struck at night. Bill saw Mat and Joel walking toward him. Joel said, “All clear.” As clear as we can make it.” Mat had been looking down the tracks. “Here she comes.”
As the people were getting off Bill kept looking around, then he saw Jimmy getting off then Mrs. Webber, Bill greeted her, “Mrs. Webber how was your visit to your sister?” “I had a lovely time.” Bill looked up and there was Henry standing in the door way looking about; Bill noticed that there was something different about him. Henry greeted Bill and the others and shook hands all around. Bill spoke, “Mat will you see to his horse? Then come over to the office.” At the office Henry was saying how the town had grown. Bill said, “Yes it has and it still growing it won’t be long and I’ll have to hire a new deputy.” and looked at Henry. “No.” Bill just smiled.
As Henry listened he notices something different about Bill a little older to be sure but there was something else, it was his eyes they were hard looking with deep lines under them, to deep for one so young. Bill was saying, “Now about this stranger.” Henry what makes you thinks he’s here?” Henry said, “I don’t think, I knew he’s here and Henry handed him the letter. As Bill read Henry walked over to the window and looked out.
When Bill was done he gave it to his deputy’s to read. Bill went up to window and Henry said, “I had been thinking of going straight to Arkansas then I got the letter, he knew I would come and he was right, I couldn’t let my friends get killed because of me.” Bill asked “How long are you going to stay?” Henry said, “As long as it takes.”
When Bill entered the house he called out. “Mrs. Webber, we have a guest.” Mrs. Webber came out of the kitchen, and said, “Nice to see you again Henry.” Bill said. He’s staying Joel’s room.” Then he turned to Henry, “I have to get back to the office, after you get settled and had some rest, come over to the office and well make some plans.” Bill headed out the door then turns back and said, “Oh by the way Jack Peterson will be on guard duty tonight so don’t, go and shoot him by mistake.” After dinner he went to his old room to get some badly needed rest.
(92)
Henry had just left the house when Jack Peterson came around the corner of the house, Henry said, “Mr. Peterson I see you’re on the job.” Jack said, “Yes till you leave town.” Henry started for the office and Jack followed, Henry turned around and asked, “Jack, are you following me?” Jack answered, “The marshal said I was to go where ever you go, just think of me as your second shadow.”
Over at the office Henry was saying, “But I don’t need a guard.” Bill answer, “Well you got one like or not, I’m not letting you get killed in my town if I can help it.” Henry said, “But if I have someone hanging on my coat tail he my not try.” After they talked about it a while Bill finely said, “Ok, ok I’ll have him guard the house at lest Mrs. Webber will feel safer and you can sleep a litter easier.” Bill went to the door and called out. ”Jack.” Bill had just got to his desk when Jole and Mat entered.
Joel thought out loud, I wondered why he didn’t try for you in Wichita Falls.” Henry said, “Could be he decided Texas was too big, and it was easier for me to come to him.” Mat added, “Besides that he didn’t know Wichita that well but knows Reno like the back of his hand.” Bill said, “That’s true enough, we hunted for him many time before and he couldn’t be found.” They talked it over and over and decided the best plan was no plan. Bill was saying, “About all we can do is keeping up the patrols as he has the upper hand.” Henry said, “Yes although we have him out numbered he has the surprise of attack on his side.” Bill said, “Joel you and Mat had better be thinking about the evens patrol.” Joel said, “Your right, come on Mat.”
Henry left the Marshal’s Office, then heading up the street to look the town over. As he walked the streets he found things a lot different there were more streets and buildings, and a lot more people. He stopped and looked about him, his town was gone it was now a city. Henry was making his way back to the house when he found himself in front of the Last Stop Saloon; he took a look in then decided to have a beer. Henry had finish half of his beer when he saw Bill coming his way. Bill pointed to the glass and asked, “Another.” Henry said, “Why not”. “Well how do you like the town?” Henry said, “Ok I guess, this town turned into a city and you know how I hate cities.” Bill gives Henry a look. Henry saw it and said, “Oh don’t get me wrong I’m glad for the people they needed it, I’m just glad I resigned when I did.” Over the next few hours Henry told of some of his adventures in Texas. Bill said, I think I would have liked Cold Water.” Henry said, “Yes it’s still wild out there, it’s too bad it had to die you would have fit right in.” Bill took a look at his watch and said, “I better get on patrol.”
Henry left the bar and headed for the house, before the streets had been dark and uninviting but now it was like walking in the day light as there were rolls after rolls of street lamps. As Henry turned the corner some light shined on some bright metal. In the darkest part of the alley stood the stranger with his rifle pointed at Henry’s back. The stranger said to himself it’s time to die Henry Miller then he stop no this is too easy. I think I’ll let you live a little longer.
Over at the office Henry was saying, “But I don’t need a guard.” Bill answer, “Well you got one like or not, I’m not letting you get killed in my town if I can help it.” Henry said, “But if I have someone hanging on my coat tail he my not try.” After they talked about it a while Bill finely said, “Ok, ok I’ll have him guard the house at lest Mrs. Webber will feel safer and you can sleep a litter easier.” Bill went to the door and called out. ”Jack.” Bill had just got to his desk when Jole and Mat entered.
Joel thought out loud, I wondered why he didn’t try for you in Wichita Falls.” Henry said, “Could be he decided Texas was too big, and it was easier for me to come to him.” Mat added, “Besides that he didn’t know Wichita that well but knows Reno like the back of his hand.” Bill said, “That’s true enough, we hunted for him many time before and he couldn’t be found.” They talked it over and over and decided the best plan was no plan. Bill was saying, “About all we can do is keeping up the patrols as he has the upper hand.” Henry said, “Yes although we have him out numbered he has the surprise of attack on his side.” Bill said, “Joel you and Mat had better be thinking about the evens patrol.” Joel said, “Your right, come on Mat.”
Henry left the Marshal’s Office, then heading up the street to look the town over. As he walked the streets he found things a lot different there were more streets and buildings, and a lot more people. He stopped and looked about him, his town was gone it was now a city. Henry was making his way back to the house when he found himself in front of the Last Stop Saloon; he took a look in then decided to have a beer. Henry had finish half of his beer when he saw Bill coming his way. Bill pointed to the glass and asked, “Another.” Henry said, “Why not”. “Well how do you like the town?” Henry said, “Ok I guess, this town turned into a city and you know how I hate cities.” Bill gives Henry a look. Henry saw it and said, “Oh don’t get me wrong I’m glad for the people they needed it, I’m just glad I resigned when I did.” Over the next few hours Henry told of some of his adventures in Texas. Bill said, I think I would have liked Cold Water.” Henry said, “Yes it’s still wild out there, it’s too bad it had to die you would have fit right in.” Bill took a look at his watch and said, “I better get on patrol.”
Henry left the bar and headed for the house, before the streets had been dark and uninviting but now it was like walking in the day light as there were rolls after rolls of street lamps. As Henry turned the corner some light shined on some bright metal. In the darkest part of the alley stood the stranger with his rifle pointed at Henry’s back. The stranger said to himself it’s time to die Henry Miller then he stop no this is too easy. I think I’ll let you live a little longer.
(93)
Benjamin got his key to his room then headed for the sheriff office, along way he passed the undertakers and saw he was getting ready for some new business that was coming his way real soon.
The sun was just starting to set as he came to the saloon, he stood in front of it and looked it over. He could never understand why it was called the Last Chance?, he would have call it the “ 4-heads,” because of the four steer heads that hung on the sign over the door. After entering he saw a few friends, and had a beer or two with them, then he played a round or two of cards but soon found it hard to keep his eyes open. 
The next morning found Benjamin heading for the hotel for some breakfast. After having his fill he saw by his watch it was time to head over to the sheriffs office. He had told James he would be there around 7 O’clock. On the way he now and then, would stop and look in one of the stores windows, most of the stores were still closed this early in the morning. One of the stores he passed was the dress store, of course this was closed as no proper woman would be caught in town this early in the morning. 
Benjamin went to the window and looked out and saw that the Kinney’s had caught James out in the middle of the street. He never thought they would be so bold to try something like this in broad daylight. There was little he could do as he didn’t dare go out, as there may be someone waiting for some to come out of the jail. Benjamin know that James may not look like it, but he could handle himself all right.
He watched the scene unfold before him, he couldn’t hear all that was going on but he could see that the Kinney’s were not liking what they were being told. Finely James turned his back on them and headed for the jail. Benjamin know that may have been a mistake, and he was right. James got about fifteen feet when one of the boys said something. James must of know this may happen as he was ready for it.
James turned back and as the did a shot ring out, it was all over in less then a minute, when the smoke cleared Mr. Kinney was standing alone as his last three sons laid dead at his feet. James just turned his back on him and headed for the jail, and all the while Mr. Kinney was jelling and swearing at him, James never turned back, it was all over and he know it. 
Benjamin had enough of the town it was time to head back to the mountains. The next day he was at the supply store getting what he needed, after he had finish he went over to the sheriff office and found the door wide open. He found James at his desk. James saw the horse out side and asked. “Leaving town?” Benjamin answered. “Yea, I have had enough of town life I’m heading back to my mountains.” All James could say was. “Well you’ll be missed, I’ll see you in about six months?” Benjamin shook James hand and said. “Could be.” Just as he was out town, he looked back to take a last look. He just shook his head and said to himself, “Noting ever changes in Buckskin.” He turn back to his horse give him a heel and rode a cross the planes and back into his mountains.