Chapter Six

Hints of Truth

This morning, Nathan wasn't surprised to see another Mountie and his horse waiting outside his office. Commander Ash had notified him yesterday that he was sending someone to scout Hope Valley and shadow him for a few days. It was unusual, but Nathan trusted the Commander and welcomed Constable Mark Roberts to Hope Valley as they shook hands. Entering the office, Nathan showed him the chair across from his desk.

"I just completed rounds so I will need to finish some paperwork first. Then I can give you a tour? Oh, have you had coffee this morning?"

"Pleased to see you, Constable Grant," the Constable responded. "No. I could use some coffee if it's not too much trouble?"

"Please call me Nathan? Mark, I'll tell you what. Why don't we go down to the Café and get coffee before I get to these papers. Maybe I can answer some questions about the town and you can answer mine about what Commander Ash would like you to accomplish while here. Shall we?"

Nodding, both Constables stepped back onto the street and walked to the Café. Along the way, Nathan pointed out town businesses, stopping to give a short synopsis of their owners and families. He was proud of his town, his home, and was always happy to talk about Hope Valley. He shared a brief history of the coal mine, the disaster, and the widows and orphans, who in the midst of great sorrow, rebuilt their lives. "As people began to heal, they renamed the town Hope Valley and the town has grown and become a true community who cares for each other through it all."

At the Café Nathan and Mark sat down in a corner and ordered their coffee and pastry. Nathan surveyed the dining room.

Mark coughed and said, "Umm, Nathan, do you remember me? I served alongside you at Fort Clay."

At the mention of the Fort, Constable Mark had Nathan's full attention. "I'm sorry, I do not. It was a difficult time for me though and I didn't have time to fraternize with the men after hours."

"Yes, I remember you were caring for your little niece, right?"

Nathan nodded, yet was leery of the question. "Is there any reason I should remember you?"

Mark immediately sensed Nathan's defenses rising and sought to diffuse them. "Please don't be alarmed, Nathan. I just thought I might look familiar. I also participated in the search and recovery the day of the landslide, but am not surprised you don't remember me. It was a traumatic day for all of us. I worked in the archives and records department and was assigned to bring you reports as you requested them. Ringing any bells yet?"

"No. I am sorry. I was balancing a lot back then. I was obviously focused on the papers in your hand and less on you. I apologize. So how long were you stationed there? I assume you've come from Headquarters now?"

"I remained at Fort Clay for a year before being transferred to Headquarters. No need to apologize, Nathan. Part of the reason I know who you are is that both you and Jack Thornton were legendary among your comrades!"

"Excuse me?"

"You must know. All the troops supported you both. Some of us even wrote letters and signed petitions to have each of you recognized and commended for your bravery and service. Unfortunately, to no avail I'm afraid."

This was news to Nathan. Although he knew many at Fort Clay said he did the right thing, Nathan had no idea he had that kind of support. He figured it must have been after he was suspended or transferred. "Well, thank you. I had no idea."

Nathan needed some time to absorb this information, so he quickly changed the subject to less weighty matters and they returned to the office, continuing with the day.

In the early evening, Bill and Stephen knocked at the commander's front door. This time the butler answered, greeted them by name and escorted them into the parlor, informing them that Mrs. Mary and the Commander would join them shortly. Both men stretched their legs and leaned back in the chairs. It had been a long ride today.

Later, after another delicious dinner, the three men retired to the library to work. Drawing chairs up to the large library table, each man sat down and spread their respective papers before them. They compared notes, ordered the timeline and wrote brief summaries for the report. Finally, they decided to write the letter of accusation jointly, as it was important to word it correctly to present an ironclad case.

"Do you have the letter from Nathan's Inquiry? You mentioned it when we spoke earlier," Bill questioned. "I am curious to see it!"

"Yes, one moment," The Commander searched his stack of files. "Yes, here it is."

He watched while Bill read the statement and gave it to Stephen.

"That deceptive snake! Excuse me gentlemen, but that is pure heresy! I am thankful I didn't see that in Hope Valley or I would have found it difficult to avoid a physical altercation with Hargraves. That is exactly what he accused Jack of as well!"

"It is distressing. Now you understand what I referred to when I said I had my suspicions? That document is a blatant example of out-for-blood-revenge. It raised red flags for me even before Nathan's Inquiry began! Worse is that Hargraves has evidently fooled or bribed or blackmailed others to enable him to rise to his position and that is going to be a sad, sad internal investigation. I am grateful I will not be involved in the questioning once the papers are submitted as they speak for themselves. I regret I will even have to attend, but I want Jack Thornton's and Nathan Grant's names thoroughly cleared of all reported wrong-doing and to make certain the recognition is awarded that they are both due. We are talking about honoring two heroes here!"

Bill felt as though he could cry. After all this time, honors bestowed to both his sons! It would be glorious! "I can't wait to tell Nathan!"

"Wait, Bill. Wait on that. I want to be certain the paperwork is submitted, Hargraves is off-duty and in custody, before we share this beyond ourselves. It will be hard to keep this secret, Bill, I know! I would like to wait until Stephen and I can travel to Hope Valley as I have questions regarding the pension and want to present the approved plan for the future promotion of Constable Grant. So, gentlemen, please let's keep our confidences a bit longer? I am just grateful we are heading in the right direction. Thank you. Thank you especially, Bill. The RNWMP is indebted…and grateful!"

Elizabeth had held Jack most of the day and her arms and back ached. When Carson arrived to check up on Jack he confirmed Jack's tonsils were swollen, red and infected. It was imperative that they keep Jack's fever from spiking, so Carson instructed Elizabeth to have Lee drive Jack to the infirmary any time of night if he seemed to worsen.

As Elizabeth thanked and said goodbye to Carson, she watched as Nathan and another Mountie rode up to her steps. Nathan dismounted and hurriedly came towards her. "I saw Faith while we were finishing rounds just now and she said Jack was ill. How is he? Is he alright? Can I do anything to help you?"

Nathan's concern hadn't even allowed time for Elizabeth to speak!

"Carson and Faith say he has Tonsillitis. It has been a long, fussy day. At this point I just want him to sleep, but his fever hasn't broken yet, so it has not been easy. I may have to keep watch and take him to the infirmary if he worsens overnight."

Nathan held Elizabeth's look. "Lizabeth, you don't have to do this alone you know."

Elizabeth didn't respond but held his gaze, so Nathan continued, "Can I bring you some supper, or anything for Jack? Would it help you if I watched him for a while so you can get things done or take a nap?"

"Would you do that?"

"Of course. Allie is at Opal's for a first-day-of-vacation sleepover, so I am free to help."

"Oh! I am sorry, Elizabeth Thornton please meet Constable Mark Roberts. He is visiting for a few days. Constable may I introduce Mrs. Elizabeth Thornton?"

"Oh! Mrs. Thornton!" Constable Roberts paused. "It is a true pleasure to meet you. I do hope your little one will soon feel better."

"Thank you. Oh Nathan, there is something! Could you and Mark go next door and bring over the small crib Rosemary uses when Jack is napping there? It should be sufficient for a night or two. Would you do that for me?"

Nathan looked at Mark with a slight shake of his head and they knocked on the Coulter's door, retrieved the crib and set it up in Elizabeth's parlor.

"Thank you so much," she whispered.

"Mark will you head back to town on your own? The Café is not open for evening meals today, but the Saloon has some options for dinner. I will meet you at the office tomorrow, before my morning rounds?"

With a nod and a tip of his fedora, Mark turned and retraced his steps to town.

Nathan turned and set his hat on the rack.

"You are sure you don't mind? It would be heavenly to lay down for a nap!"

"My pleasure. Anything I should know? Food, beverage for Jack? Probably cool cloths," He whispered.

"Yes," she pointed to the cinnamon and honey beverage. "Try some sips of that. Also, we probably need fresh, cool water."

"I'll take care of that. You go upstairs, okay?"

Elizabeth laid on her bed. She was so grateful for Nathan's kindness. She briefly compared it to Lucas's reaction this morning, but chose to sleep instead.

Nathan removed his strap, firearm and belt, then lifted Jack from the settee into the crib, patting his head as he replaced the cooling cloth. He let him sleep and went to the kitchen sink. Elizabeth had left a couple pans and bowls soaking, so Nathan quickly washed them. He took a glass, filled it with water and went to the bookcase to find something to read while he waited.

When Jack awakened soon after he looked ready to cry until he saw Nathan. With a slight whimper he lifted his arms and said, "Daddy."

It took Nathan's breathe away. He reached for Jack who immediately leaned his head on Nathan's chest and snuggled in before he said it again, "Daddy."

Nathan held him close as tears filled his eyes. He whispered, "You're going to be okay, son. You will be okay."

Reaching for the cinnamon honey beverage, Nathan held it to Jack's lips. He managed a few sips but Nathan could see it hurt him to swallow. Rocking him in his arms, Nathan began to quietly sing a lullaby until Jack slept again.

It was dark when Elizabeth awakened. She heard quiet singing. Tiptoeing to the top of the stairs she stopped to listen. Nathan had a beautiful voice and the song was new to her, but very touching.

I see autumn's bright sky in your blue eyes

And hear the joy of a winter carol as you call my name.

I see the rosy blush of spring on your sweet lips

And feel the softness of summer's sands in your golden hair.

You are my shining sun and my midnight's moon,

My morning song and in my evening prayer

And though tomorrow you will be in my yesterday,

You are the seasons of my every year to come.

Elizabeth caught her breath and wiped a tear before slowly descending. There was Nathan, walking the floor, cradling Jack and humming.

"Oh Nathan, that is so beautiful. I have never heard that song before," she whispered.

Nathan blushed to have been overheard. "Did you sleep?"

"I did and soundly! Thank you so much for allowing me that treat. How is Jack?"

"He awakened, took a few sips and promptly fell asleep in my arms. I decided to keep holding him until you came down. I don't think he feels any warmer. What do you think?"

Elizabeth felt Jack's little arms and removed the cloth from his forehead. "You may be right, Nathan. I don't want to keep you any longer, but thank you so, so much for this kindness. Let's see if he'll lay down again?"

Nathan gently laid Jack in the crib and patted his head.

"There you go, buddy. Be good to your Mommy tonight okay?" Tuning to Elizabeth he added, "I'll be praying for you both. Good night."