TCOT Garrulous Gambler Chapter 9
Early Friday morning found Perry Mason and Paul Drake once again in downtown San Diego. After leaving Nora Herrera's home the day before, they, Max and the agents returned to the office. Bradford had called a meeting of all the operatives who had been assigned to the case. They also wanted to check the ballistics report and see if there were any other new developments. Remembering Nora's statement, Bradford and Dunbar had assigned men to the three cities closest to the border…..Tijuana, Rosarito at Baja Beach and Ensanada. Since these places were the ones that could be driven to and back in the shortest amount of time, Bradford thought they would good places to search. Bradford also told the men to check out the residential areas as well as the towns themselves. They were, he said, to pay particular attention to any home that seemed to be large enough to house a number of people at one time. It didn't necessarily have to be the most lavish but physical area was the number one criteria. They also gave them Nora's description of the truck.
Almost 24 hours later, they finally hit pay dirt. Perry and Paul had split up, each going with another agent and the men they were in charge of. At first, Bradford didn't want the lawyer and the P.I. to go along saying "it was much too dangerous " Perry had given Bradford a silent but steely look and the agent knew there was no way he could keep the attorney from going with his men.
They all had been "on the road" and now were meeting back at headquarters. Max and Paul could see the frustration and fear in Perry's eyes. After consuming yet another cup of coffee, Bradford was about to tell Perry to go back to the hotel and he would call him as soon as there was any new information when the phone on the agent's desk rang.
Wearily, Bradford picked it up, listened for a good ten minutes to the caller on the other end of the wire and then said "alright Perkins, whatever you do, don't let them get away. Continue to keep the house and everyone in it under surveillance and we'll be there as soon as we can."
Hanging up, he looked at Perry and smiled. "Well Mr. Mason, I do believe we've had ourselves some luck. That was a call from George Perkins. He and some of the other men are in Ensanada. They went into town last night. They went to some restaurants and clubs. They passed out some money and told the owners there would be more where that came from if they could give them some information. They even showed them a picture of your Miss Street. Then they sat there pretty much all night nursing a drink or two. They were almost ready to leave and come back here when this man shows up. He sits down at the bar and starts to talk to the owner and bartender in Spanish. One of my men, Benson, thought he heard something about a house where there were some women…..one in particular that was going to be "sold" this morning to a rich guy from Brazil. The next thing my men know, this man, his name is Ramon' comes over to the table and asks them if it's really true about the money and how much are they willing to pay? Benson says yes, it's true and depending on what information the man gives him and how true it is will determine the amount he gets. The man gets up, goes and makes a phone call, comes back and sits down. Then he starts to sing and I mean the whole song. He spilled his guts about everything. He works for a very wealthy landowner who is the 'big cheese' so to speak in this smuggling ring. It seems that Simms was the middle man. He got greedy and decided he wasn't being paid enough. So he goes to this man, his name is Hernandez…..Roberto Hernandez and tells him he wants more money. After all, he's doing all the work, taking all the chances. This Hernandez agrees and tells him not to worry. He will send someone to San Diego with more money. Simms leaves, goes back to the hotel and is killed that same day by one of Hernandez's henchmen. Bradford took a breath, paused and then continued looking Perry in the eye. "Mr. Mason, Della is in that house." Then he said quietly, "she's the one being sold….the one that is being taken to Brazil."
For a moment, Perry appeared to be paralyzed. He couldn't move and he felt his heart would explode. He was having a hard time breathing.
Paul walked over and stood next to him. In a slightly raised voice, he said, "Perry, Perry, did you hear that? They found Della. They found her."
The voices seemed to be coming from very far away…as if they were under water. Perry stood motionless for a minute more, then felt Paul's hand squeezing his arm. Snapping back to reality, the lawyer looked at his friend. His voice was husky. "They found her Paul."
"That's what I've been trying to tell you." Paul took a deep breath, all the while grinning.
Perry turned his attention back to Bradford. "Thank you Bradford….you too Dunbar. Thank you for finding Della. I appreciate all your efforts. Really, you have no idea."
"Wait till you have her back with you Mason. Then you can thank me. This guy from Brazil is leaving at eleven o'clock this morning so we have to get a plan of action together very fast."
Years of reading people and something in the agents tone made Perry ask, "What's wrong, what aren't you telling me?
The agent leaned against his desk. He had come to know this man and respected him. He also knew that Perry needed to know the truth. He would accept nothing less.
He tried to measure his words. Mr. Mason…Perry….my men asked Ramon' about Della. She's alright physically, at least that's what he said. But she's not eating, she hasn't eaten anything since she's been there and she seems very listless….and there's two other things."
Perry was afraid to ask, but he had to know. "What Bradford, tell me what's wrong?"
"When they took her in the truck, they released a gas…..a knockout gas. It makes the girls dizzy then puts them to sleep. It's meant to disorient them. We're not sure if it's from all the gas or that she just doesn't want to but Della….she hasn't said a word since she's been there.
"Perry took a deep breath. "What's the rest of it?"
"Ramon' said Hernandez slapped her around a little. He thought it would make her talk but of course she hasn't."
Perry's eyes clouded over and his chest began to quickly move up and down. Paul felt sick and his eyes too, held tears. Gathering himself, Perry said "well at least we know where she is and what we're up against. Bradford, if you would just tell me how to get to this house Mr. Drake and I will be on our way."
"Hold on Mason. Didn't you just hear me say we have to get a plan together? If you think, I'm just going to let you go charging into that house you have another thing coming."
"Bradford, that woman is my life. I am worthless without her so yes, I am going to get her."
"Look Perry, I can see how you feel about Della. I want her back safe and sound almost as much as you do but I can't let you just go there and take matters into your own hands. Hernandez has guards all over the place. It's too dangerous, too much of a risk."
"Then just what do you suggest we do…hmmm?" Perry patience was dwindling by the second.
Bradford and Dunbar pulled out a map. They looked it over for a minute, then Bradford said, "here's our plan.
PDPDPDPDPDPDPDPDPDPDPDPDPDPD
It was nine a.m. in the morning and the quiet town of Ensanada was just waking up. The cars, carrying Perry, Paul, Max and the federal agents drove through the residential area and parked down the road from Casa de Hernandez. The men got out of the cars and waited, hidden by the trees and bushes that surrounded the area. A few minutes later, another car pulled up and stopped. Two more gentlemen got out and walked over to Bradford and Dunbar. Introductions were made, then Bradford said, "alright gentlemen, we all know what to do. I want this to be as easy and as fast as possible. These women's lives are at stake. Perkins, how many women are in the house?"
"Counting Miss Street sir, there are eleven of them. Ten of them are in the wing on the North side of the house. Miss Street is in the large bedroom in back of the house, the part that wraps around. The guards are just like I told you….they're everywhere."
Paul looked at Perry. "You ready pal?"
For the first time since Della was taken, there appeared to be relief in Perry's eyes and voice.
"You bet I am. Come on, let's go get Della….let's go get my girl."
Perry and Paul donned bullet proof vests under their clothing and Bradford, assuming his leadership role said, "Good luck men. Let's do this."
Perry and Paul got into one car with Perry at the wheel. They drove to the house and turned into the drive. Even before they were out of the car, Perry turned to Paul and said, "Look over there. It's the truck." Once out of the vehicle they were stopped by two men, holding guns. One of the men addressed the lawyer and the detective.
"State your business Senor'. Who are you and what do you want?
Perry was convivial. "Please Senor', we mean no harm. We understand you have young women here. We are interested in purchasing them. Actually, my friend here wants them. He is a movie producer. I myself am interested in an older, more experienced woman….if you know what I mean." Perry laughed and nudged the guard in the elbow. He wanted to hit him right then and there but he knew it would be the end of everything. If he wanted to get Della out of there, he would have to stick to the plan.
The guards laugh was wickedly sinful. He smiled at Perry and said, "Si Senor', I know what you mean. Come, I will take you to see Senor' Hernandez."
The guard led the men up to the door and into the house. "Wait here, one minute please."
He then disappeared down a long hallway and a silent knowing look passed between Perry and Paul.
A few minutes later, the guard returned. "Gentlemen, Senor' Hernandez will see you now. Please follow me.
Perry and Paul were ushered into see Senor Hernandez. The man came around from the back of his desk and extended his hand to the lawyer and his friend.
"Gentlemen, I am given to understand you are interested in the purchase of some of my beautiful girls. Before we begin, would you mind telling me your names?"
"Oh I'm sorry Senor' Hernandez. My name is Perry Mason and this is my friend Paul Drake. We are on vacation from the California."
"And how did you hear about me, if I may ask?"
"Certainly, last night we were at a nightclub in town. We asked the owner if he knew of anyone who, shall we say, had the product we are interested in buying. The owner, Senor Sandoval' was very helpful."
"Ah yes, my friend Miguel. I will have to thank him, the next time I see him."
"If we're lucky, and everything goes according to plan, there won't be a next time for you, you dirty sick bastard thought Perry. "You hurt Della and I am going to make sure you pay."
"So Senor' Mason, I understand you are interested in an older woman?"
A smile came over the attorney's face,
"Yes, I like them with a few years under them. They are more experienced, if you know what I mean."
"I do indeed Senor'. I do have someone that I think you would like. Unfortunately, she is already spoken for. I have been offered five hundred thousand for her."
"Perry didn't flinch. Inside he was seething and the idea that Della had been "sold" let alone treated in such a horrendous and callous way made him physically ill but he continued his act. He was as calm and suave as he could be. Smiling, he said "why don't you let me see her? If I am satisfied I will give you one million dollars for her. Would that be acceptable to you?"Perry spoke quickly…..a little too quickly. The thought of getting Della out of there was almost more than he could bear.
Hernandez couldn't believe what he was hearing. A wide smile crossed his face. "Si, Si Senor' that would be most acceptable to me. Wait here, one moment. I will bring her to you." Hernandez left the room and Perry began to pace.
Paul's voice was low…one of concern. "Take it easy pal. You need to keep it together at least until we're out of here."
"You're right Paul. It's just that…." Perry didn't have a chance to finish. At that moment, the door opened and Hernandez walked in with Della in tow. "Here you are, Senor' Mason, here is the woman we talked about.
Della's head had been down. Hearing Perry's name, she raised it and looked at the men, then lowered it once more. Perry immediately noticed that Della was pale, very tired and she seemed to have no light in her eyes. It was, he thought as if she was in a fog….a trance. He pretended to look at her as though he wanted to pay for her while at the same time all he wanted to do was take her in his arms and take away all her pain.
"Ah yes, I think she is just what I have been looking for. If you don't mind, I would like to make this transaction as quickly as possible. I have a meeting back in San Diego late this afternoon. I have the money in this briefcase so if you don't mind I will take this beautiful creature and just be on my way."
Perry handed Senor' Hernandez the case with the money. Hernandez took the case and opened it. Quickly counting the money, he looked at Perry and smiled.
"Everything looks to be in order Senor'. I think we have a deal.
Perry and Hernandez shook hands. Perry and Paul exchanged a silent understanding look. While Perry and Hernandez were finishing their conversation, Paul walked over to Della and took her arm in order to get her out of the house. In a sudden movement, Della looked at him and backed away reflexively. At the same time Perry had been talking to Hernandez, he had kept a watchful eye on Della. Seeing her reaction scared him. Perry saw so much fear in her eyes that he was worried she would scream and become hysterical or worse wouldn't leave with them. He could have sworn she didn't know who they were. Before Perry could stop him, Hernandez went over to Della, grabbed her hard by the wrist with one hand and in a rough manor held her face with the other. His tone was cold and demeaning as he spoke to her.
"Ah Senorita, you will behave yes? You know what will happen if you don't. This is a very important man…a very rich man. He has paid a great deal of money for you. Now you belong to him and you will go with him and his friend and there will be no more trouble.
Perry put his hand on Hernandez's shoulder. Every nerve in his body wanted to pound the filthy piece of scum into the ground but he knew he had to keep calm for Della. It would be the only way he could get her out of there. Trying to keep his voice even, but not wanting to sound too loving, his tone was warm and friendly….as if he were talking to a client.
"It's time to go Miss. Don't worry now. I will make you as comfortable as possible. I mean you no harm."
From a place deep within her Della recognized something but she wasn't quite sure what it was. She only knew that she would be better off if she went with these men instead of putting up a fight. Besides she was drained of energy. Her body and mind were tired….so tired. All she wanted to do was sleep. Without another word she turned to Paul and extended her hand allowing him to escort her out of the room.
As soon as they were safely out of sight, Perry walked over to Hernandez. Standing in front of him, the lawyer towered over the man who he held responsible for Della's physical and emotional pain. Darkened eyes bore into the evil landowner. Something in Perry's manor put fear into Hernandez. Before he could think what it was, Mason spoke in a tone that chilled the smaller man to the bone.
"I just have one thing to say to you, you dirty filthy piece of low life garbage. Don't think you're going to get away with this. Today marks the end of your heinous, depraved little business. Never again, will you hurt another woman…..and this," Perry raised his hand "is for what you did to Della" ….yes that's her name…..Della….and she is the light and love of my life." With that, Perry pulled back and threw a punch in Hernandez's face so hard that the man fell backwards against the desk and collapsed. Perry turned and as rapidly as he could, made a beeline for the front door and the safety of his car. With quick long strides he walked down the hallway, a fake smile on his face. Just as he got to the car and opened the back door, shots rang out and a jeep filled with guards were hot on Drake and Mason's trail. Paul stepped on the gas and the big car took off at great neck speed. Perry tenderly took Della in his arms and began to speak to her in a soft, loving voice, soothingly caressing her hair and face. She didn't pull away from Perry but she didn't move either. They weren't sure if Della heard the shots that rang out but at that moment, Perry was more concerned with getting her safely away from this horrible place. As they drove down the dirt road, Perry and Paul noticed the cars with the federal agents driving toward the jeep and the house. More shots ensued and as Paul turned the car onto the main stretch of highway, the attorney hoped that there would be no injuries or fatalities and the men who had been so responsible for finding Della would be safe.
Murmuring low, he said "Della, Della, it's me baby. It's Perry, can you hear me? I'm sorry….so sorry. If only I hadn't asked you to help me. But it's OK. You're safe now. It's alright…everything is going to be alright. No one is going to hurt you. I won't let anyone hurt you ever again. You look beautiful, a little tired but beautiful. We're going to get you checked out first then we'll go back to the hotel so you can rest, OK? I love you, you know that don't you? I love you more than life itself. You're my whole world sweetheart. I'm nothing without you. I need you to come back to me. I know you can do it. Please Della, please." Perry tenderly pulled Della closer to him, wrapping her up in his strong arms and burying his face in her hair. Not knowing the full extent of her injuries, he gingerly moved her across his lap, cradling her. Removing his suit jacket he put it over her in an attempt to warm her. Looking down at her lovely face, he noticed the bruises where Hernandez had hit her. He also saw some of bruises on her arms. She still showed no signs of recognition. Thinking that hearing a conversation between him and Paul might help, he began to talk to the investigator.
"Say Paul, I bet you're starving. Why don't we stop and get you something to eat. After all, you're a growing boy."
Paul, picking up on Perry's hidden message took up the conversation. "Yeah, that's a great idea. You know me, I never refuse a free meal. How about you beautiful? Are you ready for some breakfast?"
"Doesn't that sound great honey?...and if you're a good girl I will even let you have desert." The men forced a laugh hoping that would elicit a response.
For a few minutes there was silence in the car. Perry continued to hold Della, praying that she would show some recognition. Paul looked at Perry in the rear view mirror and raised his eyes and shook his head. A few minutes later they heard her. Her voice was barely audible and eyes still held a blank stare.
"Good…..good girl"
Perry looked down at Della and smiled, relieved that at last there was some response. "What did you say sweetheart?"
For a moment, there was silence again, then a whisper…"good girl"
"Yes you are darling. You're my girl, my precious, brave, beautiful girl."
Hearing the men's voices especially Perry's seemed to bring Della out of her fog. Della turned her head and tried to raise it but didn't have the energy. All she could manage to do was put her hand on Perry's chest. She looked up and met Perry's gaze. Her voice was still very soft as she turned her body into his and whispered, "Perry…..Perry….it's you….you found me….help you…would do it again….love…..love you too. Sorry…..can't stay awake."
Perry leaned over and softly brushed warm lips on Della's mouth. He quietly whispered. "That's alright sweetheart. Just close your eyes and sleep."
Della began to realize she was back where she belonged. Closing her eyes, she fell asleep, warmed by Perry's coat, the touch of his embrace and his lips on hers.
Della Street sat on a gurney in the emergency room at Sharp Memorial Hospital in downtown San Diego. She had slept the entire way back from Ensanada. Even though Della's injuries were minimal and not life threatening Perry wanted her to be checked out. Besides having her ankle, leg, arm and bruises attended to, the very fact she wasn't herself was reason enough for Perry. When they arrived at the hospital, Paul had parked the car and gone inside leaving Perry to stay with Della. A few minutes later he returned with a nurse and orderly pushing a gurney. Perry gently handed Della over to them, then got out of the car himself and walked along side as they took Della back to one of the cubicles. The nurse immediately began to take care of Della, placing a warmed blanket over her, cleaning her leg, applying an antiseptic and bandaging it. She took care of the cuts and bruises, minimal that they were on Della's arm, hands and face and placed an ice pack on her ankle, wrapping it in an ace bandage. The ice was at this point more for the comfort of the patient but the nurse used it anyway. Perry was getting a little concerned that Della was still sleeping and conveyed this to the nurse. She smiled and told him the Doctor would be in to see Della in a few minutes. Some minutes later a Doctor walked into the cubicle and read the notations the nurse had made on Della's chart. He was introduced to Perry and the two men shook hands. The Doctor was about to tend to Della but Perry stopped him.
"Excuse me Doctor Spencer, I don't mean to interrupt what you're doing but I am a little concerned."
Dr. Spencer turned his attention to Perry, taking note that he was worried.
"How can I help Mr. Mason?"
First let me say that I very much appreciate you and the nurses taking care of Della but, well, you see she's still asleep. I don't know how much you were told but Della has just been through a living hell….a living nightmare and….."
Dr. Spencer held up his hand. "I met Mr. Drake before I came in here. He explained what happened to Miss Street and brought me up to date. I do agree that she has been through a terrible experience but let me assure you that she will be just fine. Her injuries are very minimal and should heal nicely. As for her sleeping, what I can determine is that she is in shock. That's why we have the blanket over her. Sometimes when people are in shock they sleep. It's the body's way of dealing with what happened. She's pretty wiped out which under the circumstances is normal. She should awaken soon. I'm going to give her medication which will take care of her dehydration. It should also help with the shock. I predict she will be feeling much better very soon." Dr Spencer smiled at the attorney. "And Mr. Mason, something tells me that you will be the best medicine for Miss Street."
The Doctor then inserted an IV into Della's arm. After a few minutes Della's eyes opened, her lashes fluttering. It took her a moment to realize where she was. At one point, the fear seemed to reappear in her eyes but Perry was there, smiling, holding her hand and brushing her hair away from her forehead.
The Doctor smiled. "It's nice to see you're awake. Can you tell me your name?"
Very quietly the patient answered the Doctor. "Della Street"
"Excellent. Now can you tell me where you are?"
"The hospital"
Dr. Spencer smiled. How are you feeling Miss Street?"
"A little better"
"Good. I'm glad to hear that. Do you know this guy over here? The one who hasn't left your side since he brought you in, won't let you alone and is making sure we are taking very good care of you?"
For the first time Della smiled. Turning her head her gaze fell on the man she loved. Without taking her eyes off him she quietly said, "He's my hero and his name is Perry."
The Doctor's voice was genuine and warm. "It's nice to know that romance is alive and well. Now, we suggest admitting you, even if it's only for overnight. You were in shock and besides, you have a cut on your leg which we cleaned and bandaged. Also your ankle is badly swollen so it would be better if you were off your feet for a least a few days. You should have it looked over by an orthopedist. The cuts and bruises on your arm and hands should heal nicely. The bruises on your face are very slight so there really isn't a need for concern there. You do need to be hydrated, that's what the tube in your arm is for. I understand you haven't had anything to eat or drink in almost 48 hours. As a matter of fact, if you tell us what you would like I could have my nurse get it for you. We'd be happy to do that for you."
Perry spoke up. "I think that's a good idea darling. You'll be able to rest and have some food. First though, I think you should have something to drink."
"Can I have some water please?"
The nurse quickly got Della a glass of water. Smiling to her patient she said, "I'll be back to check on you in a little while."
Dr. Spencer also had a smile for Della and some encouraging words. "Miss Street, I know you've been through quite a lot but let me reassure you that you will make a complete recovery and be fine. Now if you and Mr. Mason will excuse me, I have to check on my other patients. I'll look in on you a little later."
"Thank you Doctor." Perry extended his hand. Thank you for taking such good care of Della."
"Yes thank you Doctor." Della gave the Doctor a warm smile
"You both are very welcome. It was my pleasure." The Doctor left and Perry turned his attention to the woman who was his whole world. He was a little concerned. He walked over to her and quietly asked, "are you sure that's all you want baby?"
Della's eyes met Perry's. Her voice was still soft but she appeared to be out of her fog and somewhat more coherent.
"Yes counselor, that's all I want. Perry?"
"Yes darling?"
"Will you do something for me?"
"Anything, you know that."
"Please hold me and don't let me go."
The lawyer didn't have to be asked twice. He sat down next to Della on the gurney and took her in his arms. Putting his face next to hers, he murmured low. "I have you baby. You're warm and safe in my arms. I promise I won't let you go…..I won't let you go."
"Perry?"
The attorney pulled slightly away to face his secretary and brushed a wisp of hair away from her face.
"What do you need Della?"
"Please, can we just go back to the hotel and be by ourselves? I promise I'll be good. I'll eat something and I'll drink and rest as much as you want me to but I don't want to stay overnight. I feel better already. You made me feel better. These Doctors and Nurses are very kind and caring but you are my knight in shining armor." Della caressed Perry's cheek with her hand. You, Mr. Mason are all I need."
"Della, I don't know. I think you should stay. It's just for one night and I'll be right here with you."
Della didn't answer but looked up at Perry with pleading eyes. Perry met her gaze and knew he couldn't argue. Smiling, he said, alright Miss Street, you win…for now. But at the first sign that something is wrong, I am bringing you back here myself and you'll have to stay.….and there will be no argument….no objection. I'll just have to overrule it."Perry's eyes twinkled as he asked his secretary one more question. "So do we have a deal Miss Street?"
Della put her arms around Perry's neck and pulled his face down to hers. Although still somewhat weak, her answer was clear.
"Yes counselor, we have a deal"
A little later Della was discharged with some instructions. Instead of using a wheel chair Perry picked Della up in his arms, carried her down the hall, into the lobby and out to the parking lot. Not caring who saw them or what was said, the attorney tenderly put his secretary into his car, then slid in next to her, pulled her close and drove back to the hotel…and to the first hours of peace they had in days.