The Prisoner Exchange
PT.13
After several days of strong convincing on Doc and Kitty's part, Matt was well enough to make a trip back to Dodge. But first, he arranged a meeting with Jack and Judge Brookings.
"Matt? Good to see you up and about." Judge Brookings smiled at him. "I was concerned when Galen told me about what happened to you and Miss Kitty."
"Thanks for your concern, Judge, but I've had excellent care. I'll be fine." Matt answered.
"Matt, are you aware of the fella Festus Hagen shot?"
"You mean Al Barbar?" Matt asked. "Yes, I am."
"Yes, well, he was the brother of the man you were to testify against."
"Actually, no. I didn't know that. Do you think this was related in any way?"
"I couldn't say. Wes Martin's not talking much. The way I see it is, they needed the money to get out of the country. They may have had a plan to try and bust the brother out first. Well, Matt that plan is foiled. Your sworn statement was sufficient for the courts to convict. So I recommend you go home get some rest. Maybe a little TLC if you can find some." He was now smirking at him.
Matt tipped his hat down further on his face. "Don't think that will be a problem."
Matt, Kitty, Doc and Festus boarded a train back to Dodge after saying their goodbyes. Settling in on the train, Matt slouched back and propped his feet up. "Ya know, Kit. It will be nice to get back to Dodge."
"Yeah, home. Never thought I'd be happy to be in a hurry to go home." She gently rested her head on his shoulder.
Doc, looking on, smiled at the two people that meant so much to him.
The ride back was smooth and quiet.
TBC