THE LONG TRAIL BACK
We started our horses down the trail, each with our own thoughts, when Jess pulled up abruptly, "What do you make of that, Mort?" pointing to a rider about three miles away coming up the trail hell bent for election.
Quickly scanning the surrounding area and not seeing anything, I offered "I don't know Jess, I don't see anyone else, so he must not be running from anybody, but he's sure in a hurry. Why don't we just pull off the trail and wait, he'll be here before long." We urged the horses over to a little clearing in the trees and dismounted, waiting for the rider.
We didn't have to wait long, we heard the horse still coming at a fast pace, breathing hard. He soon came into sight and I don't know who was more surprised, the horse, the rider, Jess or me. The rider was Slim and he looked very concerned about something. Jess grabbed Alamo's reins as Slim pulled him to a stop, calming the horse he asked, "Slim, where's the fire? What are you trying to do, kill your horse?"
Slim jumped down, breathing hard, he said, "Was trying to get you stopped before you got down into the Basin."
Jess and I looked at each other inquiringly, then back to Slim. "Why, what's going on?" I questioned. Slim reached into his shirt pocket and pulled out a paper, handing it to me. Jess looked over my shoulder as I unfolded and read it, we both stared at the paper, shocked speechless. I finally looked up at Slim and with a sick feeling I asked, "What's the meaning of this? There must be some mistake or a sick joke," looking back down I read "Wanted for Murder: Dead or Alive, Mort Cory" with my picture on it!
I just stood staring at the poster, finally Slim put his hand on my shoulder and suggested we go back up the trail to the creek, fix some coffee and discuss what we were going to do. When we arrived, Jess got a fire going and put coffee on to boil, while Slim watered the horses and picketed them on a patch of grass. When Slim returned to camp he found me still staring at the poster; shaking my head, I glanced up at him and asked, "All right, what's going on Slim?"
Jess spoke up angrily, "Who in the hell put this poster out and who is Mort supposed to have murdered? I can't believe this is legitimate, someone has to have made it up!" Jess was yelling by now, wanting to get his hands on whoever was responsible for this.
Standing, I grasped Jess's shoulder, "Calm down Jess. Let's hear what Slim has to say before going off half cocked. There must be a good explanation for this." I didn't feel or sound very convincing. "Let's have it, Slim." Taking a deep breath, I stated, "You might as well start at the beginning."
Jess poured coffee for the three of us while we all found somewhat comfortable places to sit, figuring this was going to be a pretty drawn out discussion.
After everyone was settled, Slim began, "I don't know very much really. Mose said he saw the poster at the stage station, so he tore it down and brought it out to me on this morning's run. Mort, the posters have been distributed as far as Cheyenne that we know of, but it sounds like Sheriff Tatlock has refused to post them so far, but I don't know about the other towns." I stood and began to pace, trying to understand what was happening. Lee Tatlock was a good man and I could depend on him being on my side, but he had to do what the law said, so it would only be a matter of time before he would have to post the flyers.
Jess glanced at Slim, confusion, anger and worry on his face. Slim continued, "It seems our mayor has appointed a new sheriff by the name of Jim Walker." Looking at me, he took a deep breath, quietly asking, "You remember Bud Johnson?" I know my face paled as I slowly nodded yes. "Well, evidently the new sheriff says he is Johnson's brother-in-law and he's telling it around town that he is going to see you hang for his murder!"
Jess jumped up cussing, "What the hell is he talking about, Mort's never murdered anyone in his life! What is this guy trying to pull?"
Slim and I glanced at each other, "Calm down, son, let us explain then you will understand." Jess stared first at me, then Slim, with a feeling that he wasn't going to like the explanation at all.
Walking to my horse, I pulled a bottle out of the saddle bag, returning I poured a generous drink for all of us, I knew I was going to need it before this was all over. Taking a swallow and clearing my throat, I began. "I think Slim has told you about Adobe Wells and what took place there." Jess nodded, knowing now that he really wasn't going to like what Mort was going to say, he knew that Mort and Slim were members of a vigilante group after the war and they were the only ones that were still living. The McKeever gang was suspected of eliminating all the other members over the years and had nearly killed Mort about three years ago and tried to kill Slim. Although all the McKeevers were dead, no doubt there were some friends or relatives left who still held a grudge, as evidently, the new sheriff did.
Jess was brought back to the present by Mort, who was continuing with his explanation. "Slim and I reluctantly joined the vigilante group after the war. McKeever's gang had been raiding and murdering all over Kansas since the war started and the men returning home were getting together to try and run them out of the territory. We agreed that the gangs needed to be eliminated, although neither one of us really approved of vigilante justice. But we were footloose at the time, so they talked us into joining."
"Mort wanted to continue back home here to Laramie, but I talked him into helping those people get their homes back." Looking at me, Slim conjectured, "Guess we should a come home, wouldn't have had all this trouble over the years."
Shaking my head in the affirmative, but remembering how people had lost their homes and a good many of them were losing loved ones, we had stayed to help. I continued, "I felt sorry for those people and wanted to help them, I just didn't like the way they voted to do it, but went along with the majority. We were having some trouble with spies infiltrating our forces and over the course of three or four months McKeever had planted men into our group who were reporting our every move back to him. We found most of them, but there were a couple that escaped our discovery for months, one of them was Bud Johnson."
Slim took over. "I took a liking to Bud right from the start. He was a rancher from the northern Colorado border country, he was a big man, about the same age as me and we seemed to have quite a lot in common, so we started running together. Mort told me he didn't like or trust him, but I didn't listen and continued to pal around with him, despite what he thought." Jess and I both chuckled, knowing what Slim could be like when he made up his mind on something. "Well, one night Bud and I had been drinking a bit too much and it was getting late when I told him I needed to get back to camp because I had to ride out the next day. When he began questioning me about it, I got kind of suspicious and told him I didn't know any of the particulars. He didn't believe me and insisted I tell him everything that I knew, when I said I didn't know anything he became very angry, he knocked me down and started beating on me. I was too drunk to put up much of a fight and then he started choking me. That's when Mort and a couple of our guys showed up, they pulled Bud off me, but he was crazy mad by then and pulled his iron on Mort. One of the other men got off a shot that hit him in the arm, turning him, so that when Mort fired, his bullet hit him in the back, killing him."
I got up and refilled everyone's cup before continuing the story. "I didn't have time to stop myself from firing. The other man's shot hit Johnson just a second before I fired, so he was turning as I squeezed the trigger." Pausing, Mort remembered the event like it was just yesterday. With a sadness on his face that only Mort can express, he continued, "Even though we were a vigilante committee, whenever there was a killing we went through the court process. So I was tried for the shooting, with a real judge and jury, lawyers, eye witnesses, everything. I was found innocent because it was proven that our man's shot had turned Johnson and I was also shooting in defense of Slim's and at that point, my lives. That was the end of it and I haven't heard another thing about it until now." The three men sat silently, thinking their own thoughts while sipping their drinks.
Finally Mort queried, "My question is, who is this sheriff? I don't remember Johnson having any family. Slim you were closer to him than the rest of us, did he ever mention anyone?"
"No, he never mentioned any family other than saying his father and mother were both dead and if I remember right no one claimed his body. I guess the first thing we do is find out who this new sheriff is and does the mayor know his background."
It had gotten late while we were talking and it was nearly dark, so we decided to call a halt until after supper. Jess and Slim went to take care of the horses while I started heating some beans. As they were warming, I was running today's disturbing information through my mind; wondering who this new lawman was and why did he really want me dead?
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After supper I poured fresh drinks all around before we settled back to try and plan out a course of action. "What's our first move, Mort?" Jess inquired, thinking that his plan would be to just go down to Laramie and beat the truth out of that phony sheriff.
"First we have to determine who's involved and try to find out who the ringleader is. Slim do you think you will be targeted, after all you were part of the vigilante group too?" I didn't want to put my friend in the middle of this if I could help it.
"I wondered about that too, but Mose didn't say that my name had been mentioned, but even if I did go to town, they're not going to say anything about their plans within hearing distance." Looking at Mort, Slim said, "Everyone knows that Jess and I are good friends of yours Mort and even deputize for you once in awhile, so it wouldn't do me any good to go looking around."
"OK, so do either of you have any suggestions as to who we could get to do some investigating, to find out how opinions lie?" I was racking my brain trying to determine what the best course of action to take would be.
Jess and Slim were thinking along the same lines and wondering who they could get to work on the inside to let them know what was happening. Jess stood up to walk some of the kinks out of his back and legs when he asked, "What about Cal? Would they have kept him on, maybe just so the town folk would feel more comfortable with the changes? Mort, Cal has worked for you a long time, he's smart and would keep his mouth shut just so he could learn what they are up to and they probably wouldn't suspect him." Cal Peterson had been my deputy off and on for about eight years, going full time a year ago, after his wife had had the baby.
"I don't know Jess, that's probably the very reason they would let him go. They wouldn't want someone around who had been close to me. No, it will have to be someone they don't suspect. Too bad George Wright retired, we might be able to find something out by the wires they send and receive." George had been the telegrapher in Laramie for nearly ten years, but had recently retired due to his failing hearing.
"I could go in and sit around the bar, might hear something." Jess offered, knowing how people talk after a few too many drinks.
Slim immediately disagreed, saying "No, you can't do that Jess. You left Laramie looking for Mort nearly three months ago and as far as anyone knows you are still on his trail, if you show up in town now someone will be asking you questions about Mort's whereabouts. Questions you won't be able to answer truthfully. No, you and Mort are going to have to lay low until we can figure out what they have in mind." Jess and I shared a resigned glance, knowing that what Slim said was true, but it didn't mean we had to like it.
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The men didn't sleep much that night and were up by daylight. Over breakfast Slim informed Jess and Mort that he had to get back to the ranch in time for the stage. "I will try to get back out here in a day or two. How are you on supplies?" Jess the ever hungry man asked Slim to bring back one of Daisy's apple pies, a smiling Mort, seconded the request.
Jess informed Slim, "We have enough to last for about a week, especially if we supplement it with some game and berries."
Slim warned him, "Don't be doing any shooting Jess! Someone will hear the shots and might investigate. You two stay put, if you aren't making tracks no one will find you. I'll bring more supplies when I can."
"Slim, you watch your back, you hear? Just because Mose didn't hear your name talked around doesn't mean they aren't looking to do you harm also." I said, worried about my friend and hoping that he wouldn't run into trouble.
"I will Mort. I'll see you in a few days."
After shaking hands all around, Jess and I watched Slim ride away, wondering what the future was going to bring.
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Slim arrived back at the relay station about a half hour before the stage was due and had just finished harnessing the fresh team when the coach rolled in. Slim had hoped to get some updates from Mose, but there was a different driver today, a stranger to Slim.
"Howdy, haven't seen you around before. Where's Mose this morning?" Slim inquired, as he was hooking up the traces, wondering who this stranger was and what had happened to Mose.
The driver, who hadn't gotten down from the coach, was looking the ranch over carefully as he answered, "Boss told me he was sick, I'll be the driver for the next few days. Are you done?" Slim nodded, handing the reins up to the driver, who whipped the horses into a gallop onto the road to Cheyenne. Slim watched him until he was out of sight, wondering what the real story was.
After taking care of the used team, Slim headed to the house for some coffee and pie. As he was eating he told Daisy about the wanted poster on Mort and the circumstances leading up to the charges. "He and Jess are hiding out in the mountains, waiting for news from me. We're hoping one of our friends will hear something that will shed some light on why this new sheriff really wants Mort dead. Mort, nor Jess, can go into town and I'm not sure I would be real welcome and they surely wouldn't tell me anything anyway, so we are at a loss as to know how to find out what's going on."
"Oh Slim, I can't believe that Mort could be arrested for something that he's already been tried and found innocent of. There has to be someone in town who could help you. Mort is so well liked by everyone in Laramie that I can't believe they would just sit back and do nothing."
"I know Daisy. That's why we have to help all we can. Mort mentioned old George Wright, the telegraph operator. He retired last year, but he's been hanging around the office quite a lot and Mort thought he might have heard something. But how do we contact him to see if he could help us?"
Picking up the dirty dishes, Daisy took them to the kitchen, retrieving the coffee pot, she refilled their cups, musing, "Slim, our women's club is meeting this afternoon and George's wife, Martha is part of the group. The ladies are always hearing the latest news around town, so I'll talk with her, maybe I can learn something."
"That's a great idea Daisy! Most men don't realize that you womenfolk listen to their conversations, but I know from firsthand experience that you know more than you let on." Daisy laughed at that and Slim was chuckling as he was picturing the women on their mission.
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Knowing that Martha Wright would be setting out tea, snacks and desserts for the women's club gathering, Daisy arrived early, hoping she could have a word with her.
After friendly greetings, Daisy handed Martha the cookies she had brought for the meeting and got right to the point. "Martha, I need to ask you some questions before the other ladies arrive."
"Well of course Daisy, but what is so secretive that you can't wait until everyone is here?" With a sudden awareness, Martha inquired, "Is this about that new sheriff?"
Nodding her head in the affirmative, Daisy told her, "This could be a matter of life or death Martha. What have you heard about him and why has he issued wanted posters on Mort Cory?"
"Oh Daisy, it has been horrible what that man has been saying about Sheriff Cory!" Martha went on to tell of some of the stories the new sheriff had been telling. "I just can't believe any of it is true, Mort has always been the utmost professional at all times, he is the most fair and just sheriff this town has ever had."
Daisy asks, trying to hurry Martha along, before the other ladies begin arriving, "Martha, where did this man come from and did the mayor know him from somewhere else? Just what is the sheriff saying and how are the people in town reacting?"
Laughing, Martha instructed, "Slow down Daisy, I will tell you everything I know, just allow me to take a breath and give me some time!" Daisy apologized, urging Martha to continue. "Mr. Walker, the new sheriff, rode into town with four men about a month ago. He went right to the mayor, telling him he had heard Laramie might need a new sheriff, explaining that he had been a lawman for many years in different towns across the midwest."
"When did the wanted posters come out and what about the residents, how do they feel about what's being said about Mort?"
"The poster was issued two weeks ago and some of the newer residents are saying that Sheriff Cory has probably heard about them and that's why he hasn't come back to town. But most all of the older residents are firmly behind him, although they are wondering why he hasn't come back after searching for that murderer all those weeks ago. We all fervently hope that he is not hurt and will be back soon."
"Martha, what proof does the sher….. eh, Mr. Walker have that Mort actually committed the crime they say he's guilty of?"
"None, that we know of. Walker received a telegram right after he arrived here, George was in the office when it came in and there was nothing in the telegram about Mort or any crimes. George said it was from a Josh Carver, from Adobe Wells, Kansas and it told Walker to finish the job that his grandfather had started. It was after the telegram came that the wanted poster and the stories came out."
Daisy was desperately trying to contain her worry, she hugged Martha and thanked her heartedly, "Please, say nothing to anyone about our conversation, it could mean Mort's life!"
"Daisy, this Walker must be stopped, he not only wants Mort dead, but he is trying to take over the whole town! They have imposed a no firearms rule among other things, so when someone comes to town, they have to turn their guns into the sheriff. If it means we can get Mort Cory back as sheriff, I will do anything I can!"
Hearing a knock on the door, Martha said they had better greet the rest of the ladies. Hugging Martha, Daisy once again thanked her for the information.
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While waiting for Daisy to return, Slim spent the afternoon packing food supplies, blankets and ammunition to deliver to Mort and Jess. As he finished putting the supplies in the pack saddle panniers, he saw Daisy pull up at the house. He rushed over to help her down from the wagon and although he wanted to know everything she had heard in town, he contained himself long enough to pack in the few items Daisy had purchased.
Slim had kept a small fire going under the coffeepot, so when all the chores were taken care of, he poured coffee and eagerly inquired of Daisy, "Well, did the ladies have any information?"
"Oh, Slim, it's worse than we thought! Martha Wright told me that this new sheriff is telling it all over town how Mort murdered an undercover marshal and how Mort had been a raider after the war, raping, looting and burning homes. A number of Laramie's new residents are believing what's being said and some of those men are out looking for Mort now!"
Slim leaped to his feet, shocked that someone could really believe that Mort Cory could do something so heinous. "Isn't someone trying to dissuade those lies?" he shouted.
"Yes, of course there are dear, but they are being threatened by the new sheriff and his so called deputies to keep quiet or suffer the consequences. Mr. Carlton spoke up for Mort and that very night some of his cattle were killed and his barn set on fire, after that people are afraid to speak for fear of retaliation. According to Martha, the people want to do something, but there is no leadership, no one to give them guidance and now they can't pack firearms inside the town limits. Slim, what can we do?" Daisy was wringing her hands with concern.
"Did George Wright have any information? He's in a perfect position to have heard something." Slim was interested to find out if any telegrams had been sent or received that would shed some light on what was happening.
"Oh dear, yes I nearly forgot. Martha said that Walker had received a telegram from a Josh Carver….."
Slim again leaped up, questioning loudly, "Carver? That can't be, they are all dead!"
"Slim, who is Josh Carver?" Daisy inquired.
Pacing the room Slim answered, "His grandfather was Jim Carver, a member of the McKeever gang, a very high ranking member, who swore he'd see Mort pay for killing Johnson. But he was just a kid, only eight or nine years old at the time."
"That's it then, Slim. The telegram told Walker to finish what his grandfather had started! Martha said the wanted posters came out shortly after the telegram arrived. But why would Josh want Mort dead?"
Daisy noted that Slim's face had paled as he unbelievably said, "His grandfather? So that is what this is all about. Carver and Johnson were real close friends and he came after Mort after Johnson was killed. Fortunately Mort was a faster and better shot!" Daisy sucked in a startled breath and put her hand to her mouth as Slim continued talking.
"I think we need to contact the federal marshal's office. Walker has come in here with allegations stemming from something that happened in Kansas, that crosses state lines, therefore we can ask for help from the marshal's office. Daisy, I hate to ask, but would you be willing to go to Cheyenne and talk with Lee Tatlock, tell him what's happening and have him wire the marshal? I'll write Lee a letter, explaining the situation. You give that to him and he will take it from there. I also want you to stay in Cheyenne until this is over. I'm afraid it may get ugly before it gets better. Thankfully Mike is gone for another couple weeks, so we don't have to worry about him."
"Of course I'll do anything to help Mort." Daisy of course didn't want to stay in Cheyenne, but knew that he and Jess would be much happier knowing she was out of harm's way. "Slim, do you really think it will be dangerous? I don't like to think that you, Jess or Mort could be hurt, or worse yet, killed."
"We'll do all we can to settle this peacefully, but I don't believe that Walker or Carver will allow us that luxury. You get ready and as soon as I have you safely on the stage I will go warn Mort and Jess." Seeing Daisy's fear and concern, he tried to reassure her, "It will be alright, I promise." If only he could believe that.
The evening stage pulled in right on time with another strange driver. Slim didn't ask any questions this time, he just changed out the team then told the driver that there would be a passenger boarding for Cheyenne. He loaded Daisy's luggage then gave her a hug and telling her that they would be fine, assisted her into the coach.
After waving her out of sight, Slim saddled Alamo and the pack horse and set off for his friend's camp. Making sure to leave little to no trail to follow, he rode off in the opposite direction intending to make it as difficult as possible to track him. He rode until sundown and making a quick camp he walked back down the trail, watching to see if anyone had tried to follow. When it was full dark and he had seen no pursuit, he had a quick bite to eat and settled down for the night.
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Jess and I spent two days setting up a more permanent camp further off the main trail. We built a good fire pit and gathered enough wood to last a couple of weeks. We also checked the horses over, keeping them in good shape in case they were needed in a hurry. Jess checked their shoes, tightening some of the nails, while I brushed them to a lasting shine.
It had been three days since Slim had left and after the midday meal of jerky and water, Jess told me he was going to set a couple snares, hoping maybe he could catch a rabbit or two, to supplement our food supplies. I told Jess I would go out to the lookout point and take the afternoon watch. We had decided that we would keep a check on the surrounding country, as we didn't want someone stumbling onto us unannounced, besides Slim should be coming back soon and he didn't know we had moved camp.
I had just gotten settled at the lookout when I saw a horseman, leading a pack horse, coming down a little used trail that came over the mountains from the east. Quickly scanning the surrounding country, I made sure there were no other intruders and not seeing any dust or movement, concentrated on the lone horseman. I slowly began to smile as I recognized Slim, after making one more thorough study of the surroundings, I trotted down to the main trail to meet him.
When Slim rode closer I quietly called, "Slim, don't shoot, it's Mort," as I stepped into Slim's view.
Slim jerked Alamo to a stop, reaching for the pistol at his side before he recognized Mort. "Damn it, Mort, you scared me! What are you doing down here?" Slim was trying to still his thumping heart and rapid breathing.
Smiling, I explained, "We moved camp to a more secluded area and I wanted to catch you before you passed us up. Sorry, didn't mean to scare you." Still smiling, I led the way through the downfalls to our new camp. Slim noticed that they had left the main trail on an escarpment of solid rock, which would make their passing nearly impossible to track.
As the men came into camp Jess stood up from behind a large rock, where he had been watching them approach. "Howdy, Slim, good to see you pard." Smiling, he queried, "Did you bring the pie?" Mort and Slim laughed as he dismounted and began unloading the pack horse, Jess took charge of Alamo, removing the saddle and giving him a good brushing before watering him and picketing him with the other horses.
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After the animals were taken care of Slim opened one of the bottles of hill whiskey that he had thoughtfully brought along, pouring a healthy drink for all of them.
It took a couple of refills before Slim was finished telling us all that Daisy had learned in Laramie. When Carver's name was mentioned, I was as shocked as Slim had been. "That can't be, Slim, he was just a youngster."
"He may have been young Mort, but he loved his grandpa fiercely and you killed him. That's been about six years ago, so the kid would be thirteen or fourteen, plenty old enough to want to kill someone."
Jess made the suggestion "Slim, I think maybe you should pack your things and join us. If Carver wants Mort dead, he may come after you too."
"Jess is right Slim, you will be in their sites sooner more than later, you were with me that day." I could handle someone wanting me killed, that was just part of my job, but I didn't hold for my friends to be in danger also. Slim told them he would think about it, but for now he would continue to take each day as it came. Jess and I glanced at each other, knowing better than to argue with him.
I was beholden to Daisy for everything she had done and was doing for me, but I was very concerned that she could be in danger if Walker and his men suspected that she was helping. "Slim, I don't want Daisy hurt because of me. Please keep her out of it from now on and preferably send her further away, I don't think Cheyenne will be that safe, it's too close to Laramie and I can bet that it's being watched also."
"That's all well and good, Mort, but where can she go?" Slim and Jess were beginning to think Mort was right, but didn't know where Daisy could go and be safe.
Smiling, I suddenly had an idea, "Why don't we send her to my pa's in Denver? He's always looking to help a damsel in distress and he likes Daisy, it would be the perfect solution."
"That's a great idea, Mort!" Slim happily exclaimed. "I will head out for Cheyenne in the morning and get Daisy on the first train to Denver. I'll wire your pa and let him know what's happening." I emphatically yelled, "No!" More calmly I offered, "Sorry Slim, but we don't know how far Walker's control goes, he may have a man at the telegraph office in Cheyenne. I'll write a letter that Daisy can give to Pa when she arrives that will let him know what is going on and that there could be trouble. I'll write a coded message you can wire him, asking him to meet Daisy at the train depot and also contact the Federal Marshal's office."
Jess spoke up, "Mort, we don't want to put your pa in any danger. These men have already proven that they don't care what happens to anyone who gets in their way." Jess really liked Mort's pa, but he was 84 years old and Jess didn't want to see anything happen to him, even if it was to help Mort and Daisy.
Shaking my head, smiling I told Jess, "If you only knew some of the things Pa is involved in you wouldn't be so worried, no this is right up his alley Jess and he will love every minute of it. He was quite smitten with Daisy you know, so it will be her that needs to keep her guard up!" Still shaking my head, I was now laughing, feeling sorry for Daisy!
After another whiskey I started supper, while Jess and Slim watered the horses and picketed them on fresh grass. After eating Slim pulled out a surprise, an apple pie! Jess declared that he was just about the happiest man alive as he dug into a slice of Daisy's fresh pie! Laughing, me and Slim enjoyed our pie and coffee along with Jess.
Over another cup of coffee, with a drop of "medicinal whiskey", the boys went over the plans. They agreed that Mort and Jess needed to stay put until the federal marshal had time to investigate Walker and Carver, hoping that would put an end to this nightmare. Slim would ride to Cheyenne in the morning and get Daisy safely on her way to Mort's pa in Denver. After that he would come back here and they would plan their next course of action.
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After breakfast I walked out to the lookout and carefully looked over the country below. Seeing nothing moving, other than a couple of elk, I made my way back to camp. Slim was saddled up and ready to hit the trail, shaking his hand firmly, thanking him for his help, I told him to watch his back. "Come back safe, son," I whispered as Slim rode off.
Mort and Jess tried to keep busy, but after a couple days they were beginning to get "cabin fever" and were both getting a little short tempered.
Jess tried a number of times to start a conversation with Mort, but he wasn't very good company, but Jess figured he was as worried about Slim and Daisy as he was.
Actually I was wondering what I had done to deserve all the recent troubles on top of my past worry and heartache. Three months ago I had been sitting in my rocker at home, enjoying the spring weather and life in general when the murders around Laramie had started a snowball rolling. I'd had it pretty good up to that point, nothing more than the normal Saturday night drunk or a fight to take care. I had a few good friends to share a drink, a laugh and an occasional poker game with. But after the murders it seemed like everyone had become afraid of shadows, with the mayor demanding answers when there weren't any and it had only gotten worse as time went along. I trailed the murderer out of town and gotten shot and nearly killed for my efforts; fallen in love with the lady that had saved my life; I asked her to marry me then watched her die by the hand of the very murderer I had been trailing; who ended up being her own brother! Jess had helped pull me back from the brink of my self destruction and now that I was about to get back on my feet someone was out to see me hung for something that I had been found innocent of years ago and then I learn that it's Jim Carver's fourteen or fifteen year old grandson that wants me dead! That snowball was turning into an avalanche and I don't know how I'm going to be able to stop it. Oh, how I wished that Lynn were by my side to help me through this!
Jess walked up to Mort, who was standing at their lookout, staring at nothing, "Penny for your thoughts." Jess thought he would try one more time to get Mort to talk to him.
I smiled wryly, glancing at him, "It would take more'n a penny, Jess."
Smiling, "I'll see what I can scrape up. Want to tell me about it, buddy?" Jess asked quietly.
Taking a deep breath I replied, "So much has happened to me in the last few months Jess, most of it bad and I just about get my feet on solid ground, then something else knocks me down. Damn it, will my life ever get back to normal?" I looked at Jess, "I'm tired son and I just don't know how much longer I can hang on."
With a deep, resigned sigh Mort walked back to camp. Jess stared after his friend's retreating back, wondering if he would ever get over what has happened to him.
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Slim rode hard and reached Cheyenne late that afternoon. His first stop was the livery stable, where he took special care of Alamo, who had worked hard to get him safely to town in record time. After letting him drink a little, Slim gave him a thorough brushing, poured him a big bait of grain and left him to rest up.
While he had been taking care of Alamo, Slim decided to talk with Daisy before going to the sheriff, but before that he strode towards the telegraph office to send Mort's wire to his pa. Mort said that his father would send a one word reply when he had implemented the plan. After sending the wire and asking the telegrapher to deliver any answer to him at the boarding house, Slim walked to 'Ma's' and rapped on the door. It was Daisy who answered his knock, surprising them both speechless for a moment. Slim recovered first and with a smile he gave Daisy a hug. "Slim, whatever are you doing here? Jess and Mort are alright, aren't they?" she asked worriedly.
"They're fine Daisy. A bit bored, but fine. They are getting to know each other better than they want, I think!" he told Daisy with a laugh.
"Oh dear, my manners, I'm sorry, please come in Slim. We were just setting down to supper, wash up and join us."
Daisy was the only boarder for the evening, so it was just her, Slim and 'Ma', the owner of the boarding house. After a delicious meal and apple pie for dessert, the three sat drinking their coffee when Daisy asked Slim, "Alright, tell me why you are really here, dear." 'Ma' excused herself, letting Slim and Daisy visit.
Slim smiled, "We can never put anything over on you, can we. We; Jess, Mort and I are concerned about you staying in Cheyenne and want you to go to Denver. There is a real possibility that Walker and Carver have men here in town and we don't want you to be in danger of being hurt." Slim replied with extreme concern in his voice.
Daisy really didn't think she would be in any danger here, what with all the people surrounding her and told Slim, "They wouldn't dare do anything here in the middle of town, there are too many people around me all the time. Besides, what would I do in Denver, I don't know anyone there?"
With a twinkle in his eye, Slim told her, "Oh, I think you know this person Daisy. Do you remember Mort's pa? I believe you and he hit it off pretty well when he was visiting last year."
With a puzzled expression Daisy replied, "Yes, I remember him, he seemed to be a very nice gentleman, but I don't see what that has to do with me going to Den…." She paused, suddenly understanding what Slim was implying. "Nooo, no Slim, I couldn't possibly stay with Mr. Cory, that wouldn't be proper! Why, what would people think?"
"Mr. Cory will be more than happy to have you stay with him. He has been informed of the situation here and will keep you safe. We would feel much better if you would go until this is all over." Slim hugged her to him, telling her that knowing she was safe in Denver would make it easier for them to do what needed to be done.
"Very well, if you think it necessary, I will go, but I don't like it. I will go pack right now. Good night, dear."
"Good night Daisy."
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After seeing Daisy safely away on the morning train Slim walked to the sheriff's office. Walking in, he found the sheriff, Lee Tatlock, pouring his second cup of coffee of the day. "Morning Slim, would you like a cup of coffee?" Grabbing a cup, Slim held it out for him to fill, with a smile, he asked, "What brings you to Cheyenne, as if I don't already know?"
Looking over the rim of his cup, Slim asked, "So what have you been hearing, Lee?"
Reclining back in his chair behind the desk, Sheriff Tatlock answered, "Not a damn thing that I believe. I've known Mort a long time Slim and there's no way that he could have done what they're accusing him of." After taking a sip of coffee, the sheriff inquired, "Have you heard from him, is he alright?"
Nodding his head, Slim explained, "I was with him night before last, just left them yesterday morning. He's on the ragged edge, Lee. I don't know the entire story but Jess has told me a little, I guess he's had some rough times since he left Laramie and went after that murderer. You wouldn't recognize him, he's aged ten years and lost close to thirty pounds. I really don't know how he's keeping it together and now he has to deal with this wanted poster business."
"I heard about the murders, but I didn't realize that Mort had been gone since that time. If I can do anything, let me know. I've learned a lot from Mort over the years and I consider him one of my close friends, keep him safe, alright?"
"We're going to do our best. Jess is with him. They're holed up in the mountains north of the ranch, but I don't know how much longer I can keep them there. You know Jess, he has always been a hot head and he's ready to go after Walker and Carver and get this business over with." Slim went for another cup of coffee, lifting the pot to Lee, who offered his cup for a refill. He opined, "And I think Mort is just about ready to join him."
Taking a sip of the hot coffee, Lee stated, "We have to try and keep him from doing anything stupid, I hope that he'll stay put. Will he get through this Slim? Mort's always been Mr. Patience, but you say he's not his usual self?"
"I would like to think he will," shrugging his shoulders Slim offered, "I hope he can work it out soon, because it's really eating him up. We'll just have to be there when he needs us."
Slim spent what was left of the day explaining to Lee all they had learned about Walker and Carver and how they had contacted the federal marshal's office.
Tatlock informed Slim, "Good news Slim, Branch McGary is supposed to be through here tomorrow. Maybe he'll be able to tell us what we need to do."
"Slim, I need to tell you that there are two strangers hanging around town who I believe are part of Walker's group."
"Have you questioned them? Maybe with a little pushing they would give us an idea what they are planning."
"No Slim, I don't want to tip my hand. I have a couple guys keeping an indiscrete watch on them. So far they haven't left town or asked any questions, they're just hanging around, even picking up a few odd jobs, just enough that I can't arrest them for vagrancy."
Yawning, Lee tells Slim, "It's late, go home, get some rest, we'll talk in the morning." As Slim says goodnight and starts out the door, the telegrapher walks in with the reply from Mort, Sr. Reading the missive, 'Done' Slim smiles and bids Lee goodnight.
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After breakfast Slim wandered down to the sheriff's office to wait for Branch McGary. Branch was a good friend of Jess and Mort, in fact he had known Jess a long time ago down in Texas. Slim and Lee were sure that he would do everything in his power to help get to the bottom of the reasoning for the wanted posters on Mort.
While they were waiting for Branch, the telegraph operator delivered another wire to Slim. It was from Mort, Sr., but it was in code and he had no idea how to decipher it, he would have to wait and let Mort read it.
Getting Slim's attention, Sheriff Tatlock informed him that Branch was pulling up at the jail. Meeting Branch at the door, Slim shook his hand, "Hello, Branch, sure good to see you again. We have some problems that we could sure use your help on." Lee explained to McGary what was happening in Laramie and that Mort and Jess were hiding out in the mountains north of town until they heard something from Slim.
McGary was surprised to hear about all the troubles that had bestowed Mort, "You mean to tell me that there are wanted posters out on Mort Cory? Who the hell in their right mind would do something like that?"
Lee handed McGary one of the posters, "These were delivered about two weeks ago, but I wasn't about to put them out until I knew more about the charges."
Branch inquired, "Who is this Carver and how does he fit into the picture?" Slim recounted the story of him and Mort and the vigilante committee. He told him about how the McKeevers had placed spies in the vigilante ranks and explained to him about Bud Johnson and Jim Carver's role in the gang. Slim also told Branch about how the McKeevers had come to Laramie to eliminate the last of the vigilantes, which consisted of Mort and himself.
"The three McKeevers ambushed Mort from a dark alley about three years ago, nearly killing him, but thanks to Mort telling me who had shot him, when they came after me we were able to eliminate them. But now it seems that this Josh Carver, who is the grandson of Jim Carver, is trying to finish the job started by the old man."
Branch wondered, "Where are this Josh Carver's parents? I would think they would have something to say about him trying to have someone killed."
"The mother died while giving birth to Josh and the father was killed in the war." Slim informed Branch and Lee. "Mort had his pa contact the federal marshal, seeing as how this has crossed state lines he figured they would be able to help us. I received a reply back from Mr. Cory, but it's in code and I can't read it, so I'll have to take it back to Mort."
"Can I see it, Slim? I might be able to make it out." McGary hoped that it was one of the codes that his office had used in the past. Slim handed him the wire, after studying the telegram Branch was sorry to say that it was a different code than he had seen before, possibly even something that Mort and his father had devised themselves.
Slim told Lee and Branch that he would be heading back to Laramie tomorrow and that he would deliver this telegram to Mort and hopefully after reading it he could tell them what needed to be done. "Slim, I would like to go with you, if you don't mind. It sounds as if Mort is in deep trouble and could use all the help he can get, besides I been playing nursemaid to these prisoners for so long I need some real action. Between you and me, I think we should leave today. There are sure to be some who are already hunting Mort for that bounty and we need to get to him first."
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Slim had already purchased extra supplies and stored them at the livery stable, so in no time at all he and Branch had saddled their horses and loaded the pack animal, ready to start on the long ride to Mort and Jess.
The men rode out of town towards the south, hoping to be able to spot anyone trying to follow them before they turned and went in the correct direction. After about five miles Slim looked back and spotted two riders. Watching them for a few minutes they decided that the riders were the two men that Sheriff Tatlock had pointed out to him.
Riding on they came to a rapidly flowing stream, lined with willows. They urged their horses into the middle of the creek and rode downstream as quickly as circumstances allowed. Finding a ledge of rock, they climbed out of the creek and set off to the west along a sandy wash. After riding up the wash about four miles they dismounted, tied the horses and climbed up to the edge of the wash, scanning their back trail.
Slim spotted the men searching the banks of the creek he and Branch had ridden into. After about thirty minutes of fruitless searching, with much pointing and discussion, the men turned and headed back towards town.
Slim and Branch watched them for another twenty minutes, until they were sure that they weren't going to turn around and follow, they then went back to their mounts and continuing on their journey.
It was getting late and after traveling for another four or five miles they found a nice protected camp spot close to a little slow moving stream. There was enough grass for the horses and lots of dry wood for a campfire, by dark everyone was bedded down for the evening.
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Jess woke up at daylight, seeing Mort was still asleep he didn't stir up the fire for coffee, he just quietly strode out of camp, walking to their lookout. Sitting there watching the sunlight move across the valley and looking for riders, he was wondering what the day would bring. He was getting homesick, it had been a long while since he had sat down to a good home cooked meal or spent a peaceful night in a soft bed, although he would gladly spend another three months on the trail if it meant helping Mort. Five years ago, if someone had told him one of his best friends would be a lawman, he would a laughed in their face. But that's exactly what Mort was, his best friend, next to Slim that is.
Laughing, Jess thought their first meeting wasn't exactly a friendship making experience. Jess had gotten into a fight at the local saloon and between him and the other man they had busted up a few tables and chairs, to say nothing of each other. While Mort was trying to break them up, Jess accidently landed a glancing blow to the sheriff's chin, which didn't set too well with the sheriff. Mort threw them both in jail and made them do community service work for the next five days! It was quite awhile before either one of them would let themselves realize that the other wasn't a bad sort after all!
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Jess scanned the countryside one more time before heading back to camp, where he found Mort drinking his first cup of coffee and frying some bacon. Pouring himself a cup of coffee he said, "Mornin' Mort! That smells good enough to eat!"
Handing Jess a plate with bacon and some hardtack, I asked "Did you see anyone out there?"
"Nope. Quiet as can be. Slim should be getting back soon though, so will keep an eye out." He looked closely at Mort, noticing that he looked awfully tired and the worry lines in his face, which had begun to disappear since his earlier ordeal, were back and he was acting pretty nervous. "Mort, do you need to get something off your chest? I can see you're kinda worried."
Thinking about it for a bit, I squared around to Jess and took a deep breath, "Jess, I'm normally a pretty patient man, but we have been sitting around here waiting for close to two weeks. I haven't had a real bath for two months, I need a haircut and a decent shave, I want to sleep in my own bed again, but here I am, dirty, tired and not really knowing what is happening down there. We don't know if Slim made it to Cheyenne, or if Pa has found out anything, or what's going on in town. I'm stuck up here while everyone else is doing the job I should be doing and I've reached the end of my rope. I have to, no, I need to face this head on and I need to do it now!"
"Mort, you can't do that! I know how you feel, hell I wanted to ride down there when Slim first showed us that wanted poster, but he's right, we have to stay here until we know what and who's involved. If you ride out of here now everything Slim, Daisy and your pa have done to help you will be wasted! I can almost guarantee that Walker won't take you in alive to stand trial and you don't even know what he, or his men look like or who is for or against you, no you're staying right here and that's final!" Jess stood his ground, glaring at Mort, daring him to disagree with him.
Mort glared back for a bit and then Jess watched as dejection washed over him. His shoulders drooped and his head lowered, he watched as Mort just gave up, sitting down he put his head in his hands. Jess walked to him, putting his hand on Mort's shoulder, he encouraged him, "Hang in there for a little while longer Buddy, Slim will be back today or tomorrow and he'll have good news for you, I know he will."
Shaking my head, I said, "I can't do it any more Jess, I just can't do it any more." I stood up and went to my bedroll, laying down, I was breathing hard, trying to hold myself together.
"Mort, you're stronger than this! Get up and fight, you can't let someone you don't even know win this battle. You aren't alone in this; me, Slim and anyone else who really knows you, have your back. But you have to want to get through this, I know it's not easy, but don't give up now! We're too close to home to quit now!" Jess yelled at him, but there was no response from Mort and with a disgusted sigh, Jess walked away.
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As Jess walked to the lookout he wondered what more he could do to help Mort. He was tired of sitting around too and wanted to head down off this mountain and face the people that were after his friend, but he knew they needed to be patient and wait for Slim. He said a silent prayer for Mort and asked God to please help him through this!
Jess reached the lookout and immediately noticed a group of horsemen searching the trails leading to the mountain. There were six riders about ten miles out in the direction of Laramie, they were spread out over about a mile, no doubt looking for tracks. Scanning the entire area, Jess saw two other riders come over the east trail. They were leading a pack horse and staying under cover as much as possible, he was pretty sure it was Slim, but had no idea who was with him. If nothing slowed them, they would get into the trees before the other men would be able to see them. Jess watched the two groups for a few minutes more before heading back to camp to let Mort know they had company coming.
As Jess came into camp he looked over to Mort's bedroll, but he was gone! "Mort!" Jess called, looking around the area afraid that he had decided to leave, even after their talk. The horses! Jess ran down to where the horses were picketed, expecting to see Mort saddling up. Mort was there alright, but he was just fussing over the animals, talking softly to them and feeding them some pieces of the apples that Slim had brought back on his last trip. With immense relief, Jess inquired worriedly, "Mort, you OK?"
I leaned on my horse's withers and softly answered Jess, "Yeah, I think so. Thank you for the talking-to that you gave me, I needed it and I'm sorry for all the trouble I've caused you these past months. I haven't been myself, but I am going to pull myself together and face these problems as I would have done three months ago. I don't know how I can make it up to you for the way I've been acting, but I'll find a way."
Smiling, Jess told him, "You don't owe me a damn thing, Mort. All I want is for you to be able to get your life back on track, it's been hard watching you destroy yourself and not being able to help. I'm glad to see you're getting your spunk and common sense back! But, we'll talk about that later, right now we have company coming."
Mort looked concerned, "Who is it?" They both start walking back to camp.
"Two groups, one is about ten miles down towards Laramie. It looks like they are searching for tracks. The other is Slim and he has someone with him, but I can't tell who."
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They grabbed their rifles as they passed through camp, heading for the lookout. The group of riders from Laramie were sitting in a bunch and probably discussing their next move. Keeping an eye on them they searched for Slim and his companion, Mort spotted them at the foot of the trail, where they would disappear from sight until nearly at the turnoff to camp.
"Mort, you keep a watch on that bunch and I'll walk down and greet Slim. I'll bring them back here." I nodded, while keeping a wary eye on what was probably a posse, looking for me.
While I was keeping an eye on the group over towards Laramie, I carefully scanned the rest of the countryside. I saw a herd of elk and some deer, a couple eagles flying overhead, but nothing that looked dangerous.
What the hell am I going to do! I can't stay on this mountain forever, nor can I impose on my friends to take care of me, besides it isn't their job. In all my 55 years, I've never had to deal with anything like this, I've always faced my problems head on. I just can't figure out why Josh Carver wants me dead, sure I killed his grandfather, but he had come gunning for me and I shot in self defense. Josh was just a kid, hardly old enough to know what had happened, why, after all these years does he want me dead so badly. And who in the hell is Jim Walker, I never heard of him? I so wish that Lynn were by my side to help guide me through this mess, she had a good head on her shoulders and could have helped me so much. Just someone to talk with who wouldn't be judgmental would help.
"Mort! Mort!" I finally realize that Jess was hollering at me, taking one more look over the basin, I turned and walked back to camp.
As I walked into camp, I was surprised to see Branch McGary with Slim, offering my hand, I exclaimed, "Branch, it's good to see you! How've you been?"
Shocked at Mort's appearance, Branch smiled and countered, "Well, from what I've been told, I think I'm doing better than you! How're you holding up?"
I shrugged my shoulders, saying "Alright, I guess. But this latest business is the capping on a pretty bad three months."
"Well, hopefully we can get this mess straightened out and you can get your life back on track!"
"That would be just fine with me, don't know that I can stand much more."
Slim and Jess had been unloading the pack horse and taking the rigs off the saddle horses while Branch and I were talking. After picketing the horses, they joined us with a bottle and some cups, after pouring a drink for all of us, Slim handed me a telegram. "From your pa, but it's in code."
Branch told me that he had tried to decipher it, to no avail and wanted to know where we had learned this particular code, I laughed and told him, "It's a code that Pa worked out when I was a kid, he taught it to me as he was working on it. We've used it for forty years, but I don't know if I could learn it now because there really isn't any rhyme or reason to it." I took a sip of my drink and started deciphering the telegram, this was going to take awhile as it was longer than a letter! Good thing Pa has free wiring privileges, due to the years he worked for the government.
He started out saying how much he was enjoying Daisy's company, but she was very worried about what was happening in Laramie. He had talked to all of his marshal friends, who had done some inquiring of other lawmen and between them all they came up with this: Josh Carver's grandmother was Bud Johnson's sister, which made Jim Carver and Bud brothers-in-law. Mort senior wrote, "Young Carver wants to make you pay for killing his grandfather and his great-uncle and Jim Walker was hired to do the job. After interrogating Josh Carver, the Federal Marshall has arrested him for conspiracy to commit murder. Warrants have also been issued for Walker and his gang. Marshals are on their way to Laramie and should arrive within two days. The wanted posters on you have been recalled, but you know how long it takes for that to take effect. So Son, take care of yourself. I love you and will see you soon." I had been writing this all down on the back of the telegram, when I was finished I stood up and handed the papers to Slim. Refilling my cup I walked out to the look out, I needed to try and absorb everything I had just learned.
Sitting on a rock, a thousand thoughts running through my mind as I stared out over the basin, it suddenly dawned on me that there were no riders down below! I searched every inch and saw nothing, but did they give up and go back to town or were they on the lowers slopes of the mountain, which we couldn't see from our lookout, sneaking up on our camp?
Hearing horses, I jumped up and started running back to camp to warn the others, just as I got to the main trail, gunfire erupted ahead of me! I slowed to a rapid walk and concentrating on the sounds ahead of me, I realized there were horses behind me just as gunshots rang out. I left the trail, throwing a few shots at them, knocking one from his horse, but I don't think he was badly hurt. I ran off through the trees with bullets whizzing by me, when one finally found its mark, hitting me in the side causing me to trip over a log. I fell hitting my head and remembered nothing more.
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Jess, Slim and Branch heard the bushwhackers just before they opened fire on the camp and just had time to duck behind rocks and logs, returning fire immediately. Just a short while later they heard gunfire from the direction of the lookout, but it ceased quickly. Jess scored a fatal hit to one of the men and wounded one other, Slim seriously wounded a third, while Branch was slowly working his way around behind the remaining man. When he was in position he hollered, telling him to drop his gun and walk into the open, he instead tried to shoot it out with him, which was a fatal mistake. Jess began circling around the other side, heading toward the lookout and Mort. Jess thought, God, please let him be safe.
He saw two men slipping through the trees just ahead of him, he quietly walked closer before telling them to drop their guns, but both whirled with guns blazing. Jess dropped one of them before a bullet caught him in the arm, turning him so that the other man's bullet missed, but his found its mark and the final shooter fell. Jess slowly approached the fallen men, but he needn't have worried, both men were dead.
He was walking towards the lookout, looking for Mort, when he heard a moan, he stopped and listened closely, finally hearing it again he determined it was coming from up ahead of him. He very cautiously continued, with gun drawn and as he was about to step over a log, he saw a man lying on the ground, who he immediately recognized as Mort! Running to his side, he turned him gently to his back, blood was flowing freely from a wound to his head and another had grazed his ribs. Jess slowed the flow with his bandana, but it still bled more than he would have liked. About that time Slim called to him, he answered back and soon he and Branch were there to help Jess carry Mort back to camp. Jess noticed that Slim had a bloody arm and Branch was favoring a leg, he was thankful that it had not been as bad as it could have been.
After closer examination and washing away all the blood, they saw that Mort's wounds weren't very bad. He would probably be unconscious for a while and have a bad headache, but he would be fine soon.
After caring for each other's minor injuries, they gathered all the bodies and made sure the two wounded men were tied securely, finally sitting down to another cup of hill whiskey. Slim started supper, while they discussed the events of the last few days.
As Slim was dishing up the food, Mort regained consciousness, cussing a blue streak as he tried to sit up, finally accomplishing it on the third try. Jess rushed over to lend him a helping hand, "Easy Mort, you might have a concussion, don't move too fast."
"Feels like I been kicked in the head by a mule, what happened?"
"You were shot, don't you remember?" Mort shook his head no, grimacing as he did so. Jess looked closely in his eyes, not liking the somewhat vacant look he saw. "Mort, lie down and rest, we'll talk in the morning, but right now you need to sleep." Jess gently pushed him back unresisting, onto his bedroll, where he was instantly asleep, or unconscious, Jess couldn't tell which. How much more is this man going to have to endure, Jess wondered?
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Slim was looking over the bodies and the wounded men, saying "I recognize a couple of you as living in Laramie. Were you just after the reward money, or were you helping the sheriff?"
"We figured it would be an easy way to make some fast cash, most of us don't even know Cory." One of the men offered.
"You don't even know who you were hunting! You just come out here and ambush innocent people, hoping you will have the right body to turn in for the reward!" Slim was livid and wanted to do nothing more than send them back to town strung across their saddles. "You deserved exactly what you got and if one of us had been killed, it would be your faces on those wanted posters!"
"A couple of these men had wives and families! What are we going to tell them?" The other wounded man told Slim.
"They should a thought of those things before they went hunting an innocent man! If you had of talked to anyone who knows Mort Cory, you would know he's incapable of doing what he's been accused of!" Slim spat the words at them, then turned and stomped off, thinking it was a damn good thing it wasn't Jess talking to them!
Walking over to Branch and Jess, pointing over his shoulder, Slim asked in an angry voice, "What are we going to do with them?"
Branch spoke up, "I think you and I should take them into Laramie and turn them over to the ... eh, to Walker. It's been a couple days, so the federal marshals should be in town. If we can get Walker and his men locked up, then it will be safe for Mort to go home."
"But, the wanted posters are still out, what's to keep someone from coming and trying to take Mort in?" Jess asked, worried that Mort's life was still in jeopardy.
"Mort isn't able to travel right now, so I want you to stay here until he is, then take him to the relay station. Probably won't be anyone find out you're there." Branch instructed. "In the meantime, the marshals and I should have most of these people rounded up and locked away. Mort may not even have to be involved in any way and if he does, it will just be a written statement."
"That sounds good, Branch. I'll try to keep Mort here for a few days longer, it won't be easy now that we're this close to having this mess over with, but I'll manage. Slim, you need to wire Daisy and Mort's pa and let them know everything is alright and that she can come home! I know they both must be sick with worry."
Slim smiled at Jess, "I'll do that, Pard. In the meantime, try and keep Mort here. If you aren't back at the ranch in three or four days, I'll come looking for you."
Jess helped Branch and Slim load the bodies onto their horses, then none too gently helped the wounded men mount up, tying their hands to the saddle horns. Slim took a quick check on Mort, but he was still asleep, squeezing his shoulder gently, he whispered, "You'll be able to go home soon Mort, then you can get your life back on track."
Jess shook hands all around and said he would see them in a few days. He watched them ride off with the laden horses, hoping that things would be settled soon.
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After two days, Jess couldn't hold Mort back any longer, even though he didn't think he was up to it yet, but hell, he was ready to go home too. He saddled the horses, who seemed as eager to be moving as he and Mort were and led them up to the campsite, while Mort had been packing up the bedrolls and what supplies were left. When Mort finished, he stood surveying what had been their home for nearly three weeks, smiling and shaking his head, Mort thought he wouldn't care if he never slept on the ground again! Jess noticed the smile and asked, "What'cha thinking, Mort?" When Mort told him, Jess too, broke into a huge grin, agreeing totally.
It took them the better part of the day to reach the ranch. As Jess suspected, Mort found out the hard way that he wasn't up to the bone-jarring ride and by the time they pulled into the yard his head was pounding and he was nearly sick to his stomach, but oh, what a beautiful sight! It was nearly as good as being at his own home, his ordeal was finally over!
Jess jumped down from Traveler and came around to help Mort dismount, knowing from experience that he was going to be dizzy and stiff after the long ride. Mort saw the ranch house door open as he was leaning forward to swing his leg over his horse, but that was the last thing he saw for several hours, as Jess caught him as he fell.
Daisy and Mort Cory, Sr. were at their side instantly, helping Jess get Mort into the house and to bed. Daisy told Jess and Mort, Sr. to get the sheriff undressed while she got her nursing supplies. She tended Mort's wounds, which, considering the circumstances, were clear of any infection and were healing nicely. She determined that his condition was due mostly to worry, malnutrition and exhaustion.
Daisy informed Jess and Mort's father, "The best medicine for him now is rest, plenty of water and food and his friends. Let's go in the front room and let him sleep." Daisy covered him, checking to make sure his face wasn't overly warm, indicating a fever, but it was cool to the touch.
Daisy had prepared a large stew in anticipation of Mort and Jess arriving today, all she had to do was pop the biscuits into the oven and they could have supper. While she was setting the plates, Jess shook hands with Mort, Sr., saying how good it was to see him again. When Daisy handed him a cup of coffee he hugged her to him and thanked her for everything she had done to help Mort, telling her that he missed her terribly and it was so good to be home at last!
After dessert, Mort's father asked Jess to tell him all that had happened to his son while he was away on this manhunt. Looking at him, Jess said sadly, "I think it's up to Mort to tell you, sir. All I will say is that he's had a damn rough time of it since I found him and a harder time before I caught up to him. He'll need time and understanding from all of us to recover."
Wringing her hands, Daisy asked, "Is it really that bad Jess? I can see he's lost a lot of weight and has aged considerably, but surely he will recover?"
"It's just like when I lost Maria, Daisy. We will just have to be there for him, because he will need us from time to time."
About that time, they heard Mort call out. Jess started to go to him, but Mort's father put a hand out to stop him, smiling he said, "Let me go Jess, you have done your duty, son. Get some rest."
Mort, Sr. quietly walked into the bedroom and stood looking down at his only son, he felt such pride and love to know what a good man he had become and to think he had nearly lost him made his heart ache. Mort, sensing someone was there, opened his eyes, finally focusing on the man whom he truly loved above all others, who had taught him right from wrong, but most of all kindness, to treat everyone as you would like to be treated. With tears clouding his vision, Mort whispered, "Pa, thanks for coming, it means a lot to have you here." Mort, Sr. took his son in his arms, hugging him tightly to his chest, no words could convey the feelings they had at that moment.
After a few moments they separated, the father lowering his son back on to the bed. Holding his hand, senior told Mort, "Get some rest, son, I will be here when you wake and I'll be here as long as you need me." Smiling, Mort closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep.
MC MC MC MC
Mort woke the next morning, feeling much refreshed and ready to face the world. With a little help from his pa he dressed, joining him, Daisy and Jess at the breakfast table. Daisy had outshined herself, preparing bacon, eggs, biscuits and fried taters, with lots of raspberry jam and churned butter. Mort declared that he could get used to this kind of treatment real quick! "Mort Cory, you are welcome at our table any time, you know that. And that goes for you also, Mr. Cory!" Daisy declared. Both Mort senior and junior beamed with their smiles.
Slim and Branch arrived later in the morning with the news that Walker and half a dozen others had been arrested and would stand trial for conspiracy to commit murder, false accusations that resulted in the death of innocent people and in Walker's case, impersonating an officer of the law. The judge figured they would all be behind bars for a good long time!
Slim also informed the group that Mayor Goodwin was adamant about getting Mort back as sheriff. He realized, too late that he was wrong in blaming Mort for not doing enough to catch the murderer and also for hiring Walker without investigating him thoroughly. He apologized profusely to Slim, who stopped him, saying, "You need to be telling Sheriff Cory all of this. You are one of the reasons that Mort has had to go through what he's had to over the last three months. You apologize to him face to face!" The mayor stammered and stumbled over his words, finally saying that he would talk to Sheriff Cory right away.
Mort was smiling at Slim's recounting of his conversation with the mayor, when Jess asked, "Mort, will you take the job back?"
Mort was quiet for a long while, making everyone wonder if maybe he was going to say no, when he looked at all of them, saying, "I've had a wonderful life, great friends and a lot of ups and downs since I landed in Laramie and I know of no other place I would rather be, I just don't know if I'm ready to go back to packing a badge." All of the assembled looked shocked at Mort's comment!
"But Mort, who in hell could do your job? You can't walk out! It just wouldn't be the same without you!" Jess was practically yelling at him.
"Why, you could, Jess. You are a good man, you would have no trouble in the job."
Shaking his head emphatically, Jess declared, "Oh no, not me! I don't mind deputizing once in a while, but there's no way I will wear the Sheriff's badge. No siree! No, Mort this is your job and you just have to take it back, there is no other man that can do it!"
Mort looked long at Jess, then to the others gathered around and finally gazing into his father's eyes, who stood smiling at him, shaking his head he said, "Alright…." Everyone broke into cheers…Mort held up his hand for silence…"There are conditions. One, you Jess Harper will agree to be my deputy any time, any day; two, Daisy, you will feed me at least once a week and three, all of you continue to be here for me when I need you and I know I'll need you from time to time for quite a long while."
Amid cheers, Jess stepped up to his good friend. "Mort, we'd of done all that even if you'd said no!" Laughing, Jess grabbed Mort's hand and pulled him into a big hug, everyone joining in, laughing and crying tears of joy. Suddenly a loud knock sounded at the door, interrupting everyone's revelry. Slim was the first to recover, pulling the door open to reveal Mayor Goodwin!
Pompously, the mayor said, "I'm sorry to intrude on you good people, but I would like to speak to Mort Cory."
Mort stood and advanced on the mayor, who involuntarily took a step back. Smiling, Mort inquired, "What can I do for you Mayor?"
"I would like to talk with you, privately," the mayor stammered.
"Whatever you have to say to me can be said in front of my friends, I'm sure." Mort replied.
The mayor looked at the folks assembled around the room and grudgingly said, "Yes, I presume they will all know what I'm about to say soon enough anyhow." Taking a deep breath the mayor continued, "Cory, we would like to apologize for the way you have been treated and we would like to have you resume your job as sheriff."
Mort stared at the mayor for a moment, causing him to squirm then inquired, "Who are 'we', Mayor?" Mort, Sr. thought he would bust a gut, trying not to laugh out loud, hearing that the others were having the same problem!
The mayor turned a pasty white color and stuttering he answered Mort, "We, uh, I mean, uh, I would like to, uh," looking around the room like a frightened animal, sweating profusely, the mayor resumed, "I, uh, damn it man, I apologize for anything I've done to cause your recent troubles!" The mayor was practically crying, when he finished. Jess and the group were still trying to keep straight faces, but not having a lot of luck.
Mort stood there, contemplating for a few moments, gleefully watching the mayor sweat, when he finally announced, "I accept your apology, mayor, with one condition, no, make that two! I am to be reinstated as sheriff, with all back pay from the time I left trailing that murderer … and Jess Harper is to be paid as my deputy for the time he has spent helping me." Jess didn't see that one coming and his mouth dropped open with surprise, then he began to chuckle at the expression on the mayor's face, his giggles were contagious, as all those in the room, with the exception of Mort and the mayor, broke into laughter.
The mayor's face had turned a bright shade of red, he was breathing heavily and still sweating. He looked at Mort with a pained expression on his face before shaking his head, "Alright, I agree to your terms. Your pay will be available when the bank opens tomorrow. I also expect you to be at your office first thing Monday morning, ready to resume your duties!"
Mort was shaking his head negatively and stated, "No, Mayor, I will return to work in two weeks come Monday. I want to rest from my ordeal and visit with my father. I'm sure you understand."
"Very well, two weeks, but that's all!" With that the mayor clamped his hat on his balding head and flew out the door, amid uproarious laughter!
After the laughter died down, Daisy appeared from the kitchen with her "medicinal" bottle! She announced that she thought the occasion deserved a celebratory drink. Filling cups and passing them around, she began to raise her cup, when Jess stopped her. "Daisy, before we have that drink, I have something to say." Looking at his friend, he said quietly, "Mort, I know for a fact that you lost a few personal things at that cave, your shirt and vest for starters, but one thing I found was something that I never would a thought you would give up."
Mort was looking at Jess with sadness as he remembered all he had lost, but wondering what Jess was leading up to. Jess reached into his pocket, saying to Mort, "I cleaned the blood off it and shined it as best I could, because I knew, even if you didn't, that you would need it one day." As he finished speaking, he handed Mort his Sheriff's badge.
Mort stood gazing at the symbol he had held dear for most of his life and would wear proudly for many more years. Looking up at Jess, holding the badge out to him, he asked, "Jess, would you do me the honor of pinning this badge on me?"
As Jess finished placing the badge on Mort's chest, there were resounding cheers and he grabbed Mort in another bear hug and raising his glass to Mort, they touched the rims and downed their drinks. Everyone downed their own drinks amid much backslapping and congratulations.
MC MC MC MC
Mort went on with his life; he had many moments of sadness and would often ride off into the hills to be alone in his grief. But if it became too much for him to bear alone he would seek out his good friend and they would talk it out and he would soon be on his way, feeling right with the world again.
The End
A/N - This is my first attempt at writing a story, I hope that you have liked it.
I have been a Mort Cory fan for 55 years and have always felt Stuart Randall did not get the recognition that he deserved for any of his work, but especially in Laramie. I hope I have done him justice in this story.
I have made some corrections and revisions to the first posting for wording and typo errors.
