MOLLY

by lel140256

An unusual visitor calls at the Sherman Ranch.

Chapter 1

"Come on Slim put your back into it," grumbled an irritated Jess, "Pull it tight."

The wire they were fixing to the fence post suddenly snaked into the air and attached itself to Jess' shirt collar.

"Ow, dadgum it Slim, I get enough scratches from this stuff without your help."

He looked across at his partner who was gazing into the distance behind Jess.

"What'cha looking at?" he turned to look where Slim was staring, his right-hand straying to his side just above his gun.

"Huh, what you say?" Slim appeared to be dazed and not paying attention.

"I said what'cha looking at… must be pretty interesting. Darn near took my eye out!"

"What?" Slim looked directly at Jess and focused on him "Heck I'm sorry Jess, here let me help you with that."

"No, I'll do it, don't think you're all there today Pard, I ain't looking for no more injuries thanks all the same."

He carefully detached the wire from his collar. The rip ain't too bad. Can probably sneak it past Jonesy without him moaning,

he thought.

He looked at Slim out of the corner of his eye, "Let's have something to eat. Must be lunchtime?"

Slim nodded "Why not." Looking around he pointed to a small stand of young sycamores. "Over there'll give us some shade."

Unhooking their canteens from the fence posts, they made their way over to the shelter of the trees.

Sitting shoulder to shoulder against a large rock, enjoying the lunch Jonesy had put together, they gazed out over the meadow.

Usually, one that didn't mind a bit of conversation, Slim sat silently and nibbled at his food.

Jess took a bite out of a thick meat sandwich and chewed thoughtfully.

"Okay Slim, you gonna tell me what you were looking at? It's left you somewhat quiet whatever it was."

"Thought I saw something up on the hill over there" Slim tilted his head towards the top of a hill about 100 yards away.

"Something?" Jess queried wanting more information.

"Yeah. Big and brown, shaggy"

"What like a bear?" Jess looked around; the last thing he wanted was to be surprised by a bear.

"Not exactly. It was more upright."

"Well bears can walk upright, you ever seen a Grizzly?" said an alarmed Jess.

"There hasn't been a Grizzly around here for years. No, it didn't look like a bear."

Slim shook his head, "It was probably nothing, just shadows. Come on let us get this done. We've only got a small section to finish. We can be home in time for the afternoon stage if we get a wiggle on." He jumped to his feet and headed in the direction of the fence.

"Well, it's not me that's been imagining things, and slacking!" Jess mumbled as he stuffed the last bite of his sandwich into his mouth and followed his buddy.

High on the hill, hidden by the large sagebrush bushes, the creature watched as the two men carried out their work. She was away from her home range and scared. Her time was coming; she could feel the young one inside her moving restlessly. She needed to be home with her own kind. She'd spent hours in the early morning and dusk calling but there had been no reply.

The two men below her were the only other living things she had seen except for the rabbits, and sage hens, and the herd of cattle moving slowly through the adjoining meadows. How she had got here was a mystery. The last thing she remembered was being up in the mountains, and then tumbling through the air. She had woken up surrounded by branches from a large fir tree which had broken her fall. After resting she'd wandered around trying to find a way home. She'd found plenty of berries to eat and water to drink but she needed to find somewhere to make her nest and prepare for the new arrival. She continued to watch the two cowboys.

Jess removed his hat to wipe the sweat from his face; although it was early spring the day was pleasantly warm and fixing fences was hard hot work. He felt a shudder run down his spine, and the place between his shoulder blades began to itch. Looking around he let his hand hover over his gun.

Slim noticed the sudden tension displayed by his best friend.

"You alright Jess?"

"Yeah, just for a moment felt like I was being watched. Come on let's get this finished and head for home. I'm getting spooked now!"

The friends continued working for the next half hour then packed their equipment away in the wagon. Checking the harnesses on the two horses, Slim could see they were getting a little restless as well,

"Steady boys, easy, easy." Guess we're not the only ones acting nervous he thought.

Climbing on board Slim gently clucked at the horses; they didn't need much encouragement and took off at a fast pace.

The creature slowly came out from her hiding place and followed the wagon. Her sense of smell telling her which way it had gone even when she couldn't see it.

Arriving at the ranch, Slim and Jess met Jonesy coming back from one of the neighbours. He'd been over to buy a barrel of their apples.

"That's good timing boys. One of you can carry this into the kitchen for me. That's if you want an apple pie for supper."

"We sure do Jonesy," said Jess jumping down eager to get the apples into the house where Jonesy could work his culinary magic.

"Slim, I'll just help Jonesy with this. I'll be back to help you unload the wagon and see to the horses."

"Can you manage that on your own?" teased Slim, watching as Jess easily swung the barrel onto his shoulder and stepped up onto the porch.

"Just make sure that imagination of yours don't jump up and bite ya!" came the reply.

"What's that about?" asked Jonesy as he followed Jess into the kitchen.

"I'll tell you later Jonesy. Better get back to help Slim. Don't want him accusing me of slacking."

Chapter 2

Later that evening the small family sat around the table finishing supper.

"That was great Jonesy, don't know about Slim and Jess but I couldn't eat another mouthful" said Andy putting his spoon down and rubbing his full stomach.

Jonesy looked over at Jess, "You'd better put that shirt in my sewing box Jess. Don't know how you do it?"

So much for trying to hide it, Jess thought.

He loudly protested, "It ain't my fault this time Jonesy. You'd better ask Slim how it…"

"How was school today Andy?" asked Slim interrupting Jess and changing the subject. He was always keen to hear what Andy had learnt.

"Miss. Bailey was telling us about legends and myths, it was real interesting. She told us about something called the Bear Lake Monster in Utah, and a big hairy creature which stands tall like us; the Indians have lots of names for it. The Sioux call it "Chiye-Tanka" which means Big or Great Elder Brother or The Big Man. The Cheyenne have a name for it too…Maxemista, which means big monster or big spirit being. They also call them Hairy Man."

A thoughtful, slightly worried look came over his face.

"Do you think there could be creatures like that, Slim, in Wyoming I mean?"

"I don't know Andy, I've never seen anything like that round here, but who knows. The Indians know a lot more about these things than us."

"What about that thing you thought you saw today, could it have been one of them Hairy Men?" Jess piped up, a wide smile on his face.

Andy immediately took notice. "Where was that Slim?"

"Thought I saw something up on the hill near the south meadow where we were working, but it was probably nothing; just shadows."

"It sure spooked you though," teased Jess.

"You were pretty eager to get out of there too as I recall."

"Well I was hungry," said Jess chuckling.

Coming in from the kitchen carrying a fresh pot of coffee, Jonesy pulled out a chair and sat next to Andy.

"What do you think Jonesy?"

"Well Andy, I think there are many strange things in this world that we don't know about. I remember when I first came here, your Pa and Ma had just settled and Slim was a babe in arms. There was talk then of hairy creatures being seen, large, brown, walking on two feet, but we never seen any sign. Did hear something early one morning, a kind of shrill call, a keening sorrowful sound…made my hair stand up I don't mind telling you. Never did find out what it was. A couple of neighbours swore they saw an odd looking large brown shaggy animal when they were riding back from Laramie one evening. Most people thought it was the whiskey talking but, well, who knows?"

"Seen some strange sights when I've come out of saloons," stated Jess matter of factly, "Never seen hairy brown beasts though, what about you Slim?"

"What ….me, no. Not that I spend as much time in the saloon as you." Slim answered hurriedly when he saw Andy's face take on an 'am I gonna learn something' look.

"Maybe we'd better take a look up there tomorrow Jess. Could be a bear I suppose. I want to know if we've got one of them poking around."

Chapter 3

Early next morning, a couple of hours after dawn, found the two friends on top of the hill overlooking the south meadow.

Jess was studying the ground on foot and Slim was on horseback keeping an eye open. He rested a hand lightly on his shotgun.

He'd told Jess he had imagined it, but he had a niggling little worry that he had seen something, and it hadn't been a bear. He remembered his Pa telling him about large hairy creatures supposed to live high in the mountains, and he knew Indians believed in them.

When a boy, he'd had a friend, Tika, a young Cheyenne. They'd spent hours roaming the hills. Tika had told him all about 'The Hairy Man'. Slim had thought it was just made up but now he wasn't so sure. Jess' voice cut into his thinking.

"Here Slim, look at this" Jess was squatting down looking hard at something.

"What is it?" Slim dismounted and walked over to look.

"The biggest dang footprint I've ever seen. Looks sort of human but it's not right. There's another one over there and then they disappear, whatever it was probably walked over those rocks. You can see where something was kneeling down here behind these bushes."

Slim looked down into the valley below. He could see where they had been working the day before.

"This is about where I saw the, what do I call it, animal, creature, human?"

"I just don't know Slim, never seen anything like this before." Jess looked around, suddenly feeling uneasy. "Maybe we'd better get back home."

"Yeah, let us not tell Andy about this just yet. Don't want him worrying. We'll just keep our eyes open."

Jess laughed, "Knowing Andy, he'd wanna catch one and keep it."

Mounting Alamo and Traveler they slowly made their way back towards the ranch. Jess kept his eyes open for more tracks but saw nothing.

It was beautiful weather and the friends talked about the plans they had for the rest of the day,

"Reckon we need to start painting that barn," Slim said.

Catching sight of the frown on his partners face, he added, "I know it's not the best job but the sooner we start the sooner it'll be over; best to do it in the Spring…too darn hot in the Summer."

"Yeah, I know you're right Slim, but painting ain't…" Jess was suddenly thrown forward in the saddle as Traveler stopped dead in his tracks, "Whoa boy, what's going on?"

Alamo also stood stock still, his head up, ears pricked, nostrils quivering, small shivers ran through him, Slim gently patted his neck, "Steady boy" he crooned.

They looked around but could see nothing except a rundown shack in the distance.

The two horses relaxed and moved off as quickly as they had stopped "What was all that about?" Jess said.

"No idea, come on let's get home."

A frown creased Jess's forehead as he turned to look around again, he could see nothing, but his guts told him that something was not right.

In the ruined shack the creature restlessly turned over and tried to get comfortable, she had made a bed for herself using the sage plants and long grass that grew around. She knew it would be soon.

Chapter 4

That night, in his bed, Jess tossed and turned. It worried him what was out there. He climbed out of bed and untangled the sheets; before he got back in, he'd decided to ride out to the old shack the next day. Decision made, he settled to sleep for the short time left before dawn.

During all the nocturnal activity, Slim lay awake; the opposite of Jess in that he stayed very still. Like Jess he worried what was out there; something odd that he didn't want to get involved with. Turning onto his other side, he had a feeling that it was something they were not going to be able to ignore.

The next day Jonesy served breakfast to two bleary-eyed cowboys.

"Look at you boys, looks like you've been ridden hard and put away wet. Didn't you sleep?"

"Not so great," replied Slim as he slowly spread his biscuit with the chunks of butter on the table in front of him.

"What about you Jess?" asked Jonesy. Jess grunted at him. Jonesy placed a steaming cup of coffee in front of him.

"Get yourself around that and you'll soon feel better."

Jonesy turned to Andy, "Why don't you get a start on cleaning your animals, it's gonna be another hot day, best get it finished before the heat gets going. Then maybe you can go down to the swimming hole to cool off. We can take a picnic lunch what with it not being a school day."

Andy jumped up and went to put his dishes into the sink.

"Not to worry Andy, I'll do them for once," continued Jonesy.

Andy headed to the back door.

"Shucks Jonesy, if you wanna talk to Slim and Jess alone, you just had to say. As it is I have a great afternoon coming up."

Jonesy shook his head, "That boy…"

Placing the coffee pot on the table, Jonesy sat down on a wooden chair; he poured himself a cup of coffee. "So, what's bothering you two."

Jess leant across the table, picked the pot up and refilled his mug.

"Yesterday when we went to check out that hillside, we found a footprint… a huge footprint…looked human but it weren't. On the way back both the horses spooked, refused to move. Alamo has always been a bit jumpy, but Trav; he's usually steady as a rock."

"What'd you mean, not human. Was it bear?" asked Jonesy.

"No, not like any bear print that I've seen," added Slim "Nor anything else I can think of."

Jess blew on his coffee, "Look, Slim, I'm gonna ride out there. I got no idea what it was but Trav don't behave like that for nothing. I gotta go and look. You can come if you wanna."

"You know I can't Jess. The new stage line manager, Adam Lee, is coming on the first stage. It would look bad if neither of us were here. Leave it until this afternoon or tomorrow. Surely it can wait until then."

"I'll be back in no time at all. You know me, won't be able to sleep tonight if I don't."

"Ok, you go, but be careful. Too much work left to do around here for one. I need you fit. I'll ride over to join you when Adam's left. Reckon he won't be here more than a couple of hours."

Jess gulped down his coffee and stood up, "Good, that's a plan. I should be back in a couple of hours, so you won't have to ride anywhere."

Ten minutes later Jess led Traveler out of the barn, hopped into the saddle, and touching his hat in a goodbye salute he was gone.

Slim watched as he crested the hill. He had a bad feeling about this, but he always did when Jess disappeared on an unscheduled trip. He'd learned over the months Jess had been around that he always came back. He was just not sure what condition he'd be in. Trouble just courts Jess, he thought.

Jess and Traveler had an uneventful ride until they approached the deserted shack. Traveler started to snort and throw his head around. Confused he danced across the field sideways, not wanting to go where he was being sent but also listening to his rider who was telling him to go in that direction.

"Hey Trav, settle down." Jess spoke in soft tones to his horse. "It's okay."

He pulled Traveler to a halt, took his hat off and wiped his forehead. "Sure is getting hot,"

He looked around but couldn't see anything. He decided to tether his reluctant horse away from the shack and approach on foot. He dismounted and made sure Traveler was well secured in a shady spot. He loosened the cinch and took his gun from its holster. He spun the chamber; fully loaded. Dragging his rifle from its holder he checked that as well.

He patted Traveler on the neck. "Be back soon boy." He walked a few steps away and then stopped and turned back to his horse.

Gently he tightened the cinch, "Sorry boy, might have to make a quick getaway."

Chapter 5

Inside the shack, the creature got up and looked around. She'd heard something approach and it frightened her. She recognised the smell from the day before. She'd looked out and seen the two men riding by and now here was one come back. She watched the door.

Jess crept towards the shack; his senses were screaming at him to not go there but he ignored them. That's just plain foolish, he thought, what could be in there? He moved towards an opening in the wall that had once been a window. It was dark and shadowy inside even with the sun streaming down on it. He waited for his eyes to adjust and peered in.

A strong animal smell hit his nostrils and he involuntarily held his breath and pulled back. Taking a mouthful of fresh air, he peered in again. He could make out a figure; a large figure standing with its back to another opening. He shook his head and blinked, frowning as he tried to understand what he was looking at.

The figure started to move towards the door; fast. Jess took a step back and stood to the side. He didn't pay attention to the way the door swung open, and it hit him with enough force to come off its hinges and send him to his knees beneath it.

He was aware of something jumping over the fallen door and heading towards the tree cover. Groaning he sat up in time to see Traveler frantically pull back from the tree he was tied to, break free, and then bolt off towards the ranch. The creature, tall, brown, hairy continued in the opposite direction until it disappeared into the surrounding woods.

Jess felt his head where a bump was already forming, his fingers came away damp. He looked at them, blood. He staggered to his feet and let out a string of cuss words. He didn't know who he was angrier with; himself for not taking more care; the creature or animal or whatever it was for spooking his horse; his horse for running off, or with Slim for not being there. He thought he might as well go the whole hog and blame the stage superintendent as well!

He looked over to where the creature had disappeared. He could see the trail it had left through the grass. He slowly made his way towards the edge of the trees. Looking into the blackness he could see there was no point in going in especially on his own, on foot and with a throbbing head. He turned and followed the trail back to the shack. He was immediately struck by the length of the stride and the size of the track.

"Dammit, this thing's got a longer stride than Slim, reckon it must be about eight foot tall" he muttered to himself.

When he got back to the shack, he stumbled over the broken door and went inside. The pungent smell had faded. He bent down, somewhat gingerly and picked up a clump of brown fur, studied it for a few seconds and put it in his waistcoat pocket.

Going back outside, he put his mind to getting back to the ranch, it would be over an hour's walk and in his heeled boots he didn't fancy that, and he needed a drink of water. He would have liked something stronger, but water would have to do. Fortunately, he had passed a creek on the way to the shack and that was in the direction of home.

Retrieving his rifle from under the broken door and pulling his hat down tight he started walking. When he found the stream, he lay face down and took a generous mouthful, splashing his face and neck at the same time. Looking up at the sun he wondered if Traveler had made it home yet. He hoped so 'cause Slim would come looking and that would undoubtedly save his feet.

Unbeknown to Jess, he was being followed. If he hadn't had such an aching head, his sixth sense might have kicked in but all he wanted was to get home, talk to Slim and try to understand what he'd seen.

The creature slowly followed the man, her footfall was light, and she easily kept up, being careful to keep herself just out of sight. These things on two legs interested her and she instinctively felt drawn to them.

At the ranch, Slim put the superintendent on the stage and waived him off. He strode over to the barn and quickly saddled Alamo. Leading him over to the hitching rail outside the house he tied him to it and went inside, strapped on his gun, and firmly put his hat on.

"You got any bandages in your saddle bag?" asked Jonesy, as he watched out the window.

"Yep," replied Slim, "Don't think I'll need them though…do I?"

"Not sure Slim, but Jess's horse is coming hell for leather down the hill, and Jess nowhere in sight."

"What?!" exclaimed Slim and he leapt towards the front door, dragged it open and rushed through with Jonesy a couple of paces behind him.

Traveler had made it to the front rail and was standing by Alamo's side; he had his head resting against his friend's neck, breathing hard with sweat running off him. Slim calmly walked towards him; his own breathing and heart began to speed up.

"Steady fella." Slim ran his eye over the saddle, he could see no blood or signs of injury. His eyes moved to the reins and could see that one was broken. He quickly ran his hands along Travelers legs and then walked around him.

"He's okay, just looks as if he's had a fright. Let's hope Jess is alright and walking home. His rifle is missing so he's got that," he said to Jonesy who was hovering a few steps away.

Neither voiced an opinion as to why Jess would need his rifle.

"Jonesy, you get him cooled down. I'll saddle up another horse and head out to meet Jess. Hopefully, all that'll be wrong will be him grousing about sore feet."

Jonesy took Traveler to the barn, "You gonna be fine for me boy?" he asked. Traveler nudged him in the back, he was home and after his experience he was even pleased to see Jonesy.

Slim hitched the young mare he had chosen to his saddle and climbed up on Alamo.

"See you soon Jonesy," he called as he loped out of the yard.

Traveler had left a trail a blind man could have followed, straight as a die. Slim jogged up to the top of a hill and gazed around. He knew the speck in the distance to be the old shack. He squinted under the brim of his Stetson and eventually made out movement. He watched it for a few minutes and recognised the easy gait of his best friend.

Putting his fingers into his mouth, he whistled long and loud. The figure below stopped and put his hand up to his hat shading the sun. In a second an answering whistle was heard. Slim kicked Alamo into a jog and started down the small hill, only to stop immediately. Looking past Jess, he thought he saw something move. He squinted even harder but couldn't make out anything. Shaking his head, he gently pushed Alamo down the slope.

Below Jess had heard and then spotted his buddy. He had seen Slim start down the hill and then stop. The area between his shoulder blades had started to itch, and he quickly turned and looked behind him. Nothing unusual could be seen, but he put his hand on his gun, and took the safety strap off. Turning about he made his way towards Slim and the horses. As much as his head and feet hurt, he broke into a slow run and was soon by Slim's side.

Slim grinned down at him. "Hey Pard…Traveler came home without you, so I thought I'd better come and get ya." He looked closer at Jess, and his voice changed from joking to concern.

"Is that blood on your face…you hurt?"

Jess ran his fingers along his hairline. "It's nothing to worry about, just a graze…."

"Just a graze!" interrupted Slim as he began to dismount. "Let me look…it'll need cleaning."

Slim took his gloves off and gently touched the area around the wound.

Jess pulled his head away, "Ow."

"It never stops amazing me how much of a baby you can be…come on let me clean it."

The itch between Jess's shoulder blades was now screaming at him.

"No! Let us just get home." He mounted the mare.

"Ok, Ok, no need to growl at me." replied Slim.

"Sorry Slim, I didn't mean nothin'. I just need us to get home."

Slim mounted Alamo and turned his head towards the ranch, "Well come on then. Sooner we do you can tell me what's eatin' ya and Jonesy can look at your wound."

Jess cast a glance behind him. He knew something was there but what?" Kicking the mare into a trot he followed Slim.

The creature appeared from her hiding place and steadily followed the riders. She was upwind of the horses, and they didn't acknowledge her presence.

At the ranch, Jonesy took one look at the cut on Jess's head,

"Get off that fool animal and get yourself inside. That needs to be looked at, might need a stitch or two."

Slim smiled as he took the reins from Jess and walked both horses to the barn. Jonesy was such an old woman sometimes, thought Slim, but he had to admit they would be lost without him. He had sewn both of them back together quite a few times. His hand touched the scar on his face, that had been Jonesy's work and a good job he'd made of it.

He finished off the horses, gave them food and water, and checked on Traveler.

"Hi boy," he softly said, "He's home, 'spect he'll be out to see ya later." He patted Travelers rump and was pleased to see the horse was totally relaxed and over his shock. As he strolled towards the house, he heard a noise, stopping he turned and moved towards it. It seemed to be coming from an old shed behind the barn, it sounded as if someone or something was moving around. As he got closer one of the two farm cats came galloping towards him.

"What ya been doing in there…hunting rats; find a big one did ya?" he asked, as it took a running jump onto his shoulder. Slim flinched slightly, "Woah, mind those claws." He tried to push the cat off, but it clung to him, "OK, stay there…what is going on today, Traveler jumpy and now you." He continued towards the house and went through the kitchen door. When he had safely closed the door, the cat jumped off him and fled into Andy's room and hid under the bed.

Jess was sitting at the table, shirt undone, and an old clean pillowcase tucked around his neck. Jonesy had cleaned his wound and was pushing thread through the eye of a sharp needle.

"Aw tell him Slim…it don't need no stitches".

"You know what Jess, if Jonesy thinks it does, then I reckon it does. Anyway, while he's doing that you can tell us how it happened." Slim pulled out a chair and sat down.

He nodded at Jess, "Go on then?"

"A door fell on me."

"That's it? What door?... Whose door?" Slim glanced at Jonesy who shrugged his shoulders.

Jonesy placed his hands on Jess's head. "Here we go Jess. I'll try and be quick."

Jess hissed as the needle went in. Slim stood up and got a small piece of leather out of the kitchen drawer. "Here bite on this. We can talk later."

Afterwards, when Jonesy had finished and tidied up; the three of them sat at the table nursing cups of coffee with a little extra in it. Just to soothe nerves, Jonesy had said.

"Go on then Jess, let's hear what happened?" asked Slim.

"Like I said, a door fell on me, the door at the old shack."

Slim raised his eyebrows and frowned. Jess carried on.

"Someone or something pushed it open with a heck of a force."

"What do ya mean, something?" interrupted Jonesy.

"That's just it, I don't know. It jumped over the door with me trapped under it and took off towards the trees. By the time I dragged myself free all I could see was the back of it running, and Traveler breaking free and sprinting towards home. I followed its track, it could sure run Slim, and its stride, well I reckon it had to have been at least eight feet tall."

Jess took a swallow of his coffee, appreciating the whiskey in it. He felt the warmth travel to his stomach.

"Mmm, this sure is good," he murmured.

"Yeah, well that's all there is so take your time with it," replied Jonesy, taking a swig himself.

Slim stared at his cup, seemingly forgetting about the liquid in it.

"What do ya mean you don't know what it was? Could it have been a bear?"

"Not like any bear I've ever seen," replied Jess. "I caught a look at it through a window. Couldn't make out its eyes or face, but it was tall, with a long shaggy coat, and the smell weren't like a bear. It was kinda earthy. It didn't run like a bear…it was on two legs, upright…like a man."

The three of them sat quietly. This time Slim took a large swallow from his cup.

"Well, you know what I think?" said Jonesy after a few minutes silence. "As crazy as it sounds, I think we got one of them Big Men around here."

Jess drained his cup, "You know Jonesy, I'm inclined to agree with you…after seeing it with my own eyes. What do ya think Slim?"

"Don't know what to think. Can't think of any creature that runs like that. And you seeing it…yeah, maybe you are both right."

Their thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the stage coming in. Slim gulped the rest of his drink down and stood up.

"I'll see to the stage. Jess you go and get some shut-eye."

"Yeah, I feel a bit sleepy," he said stopping a yawn. "You put anything else in that coffee Jonesy."

"As if I would,"

Jess slowly shook his head wincing as he walked towards the bedroom, "Wake me up for supper, ok."

Slim rested his hand on the door handle, and looked back at his two friends, "Best not mention this to Andy just yet. I need to think on it."

Jess yawned, "Won't he be curious what happened to me?"

"Jess you're always getting knocks and bruises. Just tell him you walked into a door." Slim grinned as he turned the handle and went outside.

Chapter 6

Jess woke up about an hour before supper. He sauntered to the stove and poured a coffee and took a large swig out of it.

"That hits the spot Jonesy. Slim around?"

"He and Andy rode out to check on the stock in the home field, see if we got any new babies. Should be back before supper."

"Think I'll go and check on Trav. You got an apple for him?" Jess fixed his blue eyes on Jonesy and gave him a pleading look.

Jonesy bent down by the side of the stove and picked a red apple out of the barrel. "Don't know why you ask. You don't usually. But he had a bit of a shock today, so he probably deserves one."

"Shock?"

"When he got home, he was shaking all over and sweating like the hounds of hell were after him."

Concern crept into Jess's face. "I oughta gone to see him earlier."

"Don't think he'll hold it against ya. By the time you and Slim got home, he had calmed down."

Jess took the apple from Jonesy's outstretched hand.

"Thanks, he'll enjoy this."

He walked to the door, reached for his hat, paused for a second and put his gun belt on, tying it down and adjusting it to fit his hips. Noticing Jonesy's questioning glance, he replied "Can't be too careful after today."

Jess strolled across the yard, he still couldn't get his mind around what had happened and what he had seen, but he felt better for sharing it with Slim and Jonesy. Maybe Jonesy was right, he had encountered one of the Big Men. He opened the door to the barn and went in.

Traveler was standing in his stall dozing, a blanket thrown over him. He shifted his feet and turned to look towards the door.

"Hey fella, how ya doing?"

Jess rubbed his hand along the strong neck and put his fingers in his mane, giving it a gentle scratch. Traveler stretched his neck and blew a welcome.

Jess bit the apple in half and offered it to his horse. "Sorry I weren't here for ya earlier," he murmured.

Traveler gently took the apple and crunched it up. Jess offered him the second bit and again Traveler crunched it up, dribbling apple juice over his owner's hand.

"Hey, thanks!"

Traveler rested his nose on Jess's arm, he loved the sound of his owner's voice, it calmed him. Jess smiled and transferred his attention to scratching Travelers ears. Pulling up a bucket, he upturned it and sat by his horse. Traveler bent his head and placed it on Jess's shoulder. Jess moved his hand along Travelers cheek and gently scratched him under his chin, resting his head against his muzzle.

Slim found them like that. "You want to watch that; all the others will get jealous."

He led Alamo into his stall and unsaddled him, giving him a brisk rubdown to remove the mud and sweat.

"No chance, this is reserved for one horse." Jess picked up the bucket and walked to the trough to fill it up. He filled Alamo's water while Slim went to the feed box and filled a large scoop with grain.

Jess looked around, "Where's Andy?"

"He'll be along soon. He found a young bird with an injured wing. You know what he's like, couldn't leave it."

On cue Andy walked into the barn leading his horse. He carried a young meadowlark in his left arm.

"Here Andy, I'll take your horse," said Jess.

"Thanks Jess."

He looked towards his brother, "Slim, I think I'll make a box to keep him in until his wing is fixed."

"Good idea, Andy, you might find something you can use in that old shed out behind the showers. I got a feeling there's some old boxes in there."

"That's great. Here can you hold it while I go look?" Andy thrust the bird at Slim and ran towards the old shed.

Jess had finished with Andy's horse. He walked up to Slim.

"Didn't know you were a veterinarian as well," he chuckled. Slim shoved the bird at Jess.

"Here, you can charm this."

Jonesy appeared through the doors at that moment. "Thought I heard you arrive…supper is just about ready. Where's the boy?"

"He's out back, looking for a box for this," Jess placed the bird in Jonesy arms.

"What am I to do with it?"

"I don't know Jonesy, it's just until Andy finds something."

"Well as I said, suppers ready…I'll see you both inside."

Jonesy went back to his kitchen. He found an old bowl and gently put the bird in it.

"There ya go young un. Andy'll sort you out". Just like his mother he thought, she was always tending sick things.

He placed the bowl on the floor next to the stove and covered it with an old towel.

Chapter 7

Andy noticed the shed door was already half open, he pulled the door, so it was now wide open. He took a step into the interior. It was very dark; too dark for him to see anything let alone find a suitable box. He went outside again, found a lantern, and lit it. Carrying it carefully he approached the shed once more. As he went in a faint musky smell assaulted his nose, "Phew," he thought out loud," we're gonna have to clear this out".

Reaching up he placed the lantern on a nail and started looking around for anything that might be useful to him. He had just found a box which he thought would be perfect for his needs when he heard a noise behind him, a snuffling, wheezing, scratching sound.

"Damn rats," he muttered to himself, glad that Slim wasn't there to hear him use a cuss word. He tried not to but sometimes there was no getting round it.

He lifted the lantern down, holding it above his head he turned and looked at where the noise had come from. Andy's mouth fell open. Any words that had been in his head vanished. Fortunately, he managed to hold onto the lantern but dropped the box he was holding. He took a deep breath, a large swallow and took a step back towards the door. Andy shut his mouth, his eyes telling his brain what he was seeing, but he still couldn't put a name to it; two arms, two legs, hairy, tall; much taller than Slim, and Slim was the tallest person he knew.

Sitting in the corner, leaning against the side of the shed was a creature; a big, brown, shaggy creature. It was looking straight at him, its brown eyes somehow piercing into him, not menacing, more in a frightened, asking for help way. Andy's natural empathy with all wild things kicked in, he put the lantern on the floor, and very slowly moved closer.

The creature watched as this strange being approached her. She did not sense any harm in it, but she was in pain. The baby was coming but she knew something was wrong. She growled.

Andy jumped back, realising what he was doing, and suddenly feeling scared and worried. He turned around and rushed out the door.

Outside Slim and Jess were scrubbing dirt from their arms and hands.

"Did ya find any babies in the herd." Jess wanted to know.

"Yep, sure did. Five, all healthy females and I reckon we got a lot more to come. We'll ride out tomorrow and check them again."

"That's great Slim, we'll soon have…."

Their conversation was stopped by a loud yelling which seemed to be coming from the direction of the old shed.

"Slim! Jess! Slim! Jess!"

Slim and Jess looked at each other. "That's Andy."

Both took off running; both taking their guns from their holsters as they ran.

In the house, Jonesy dropped the plate he was holding, and grabbed for his shotgun. He ran for the door. The fear and urgency in Andy's voice was unmistakeable. He saw Slim and Jess disappearing round the shower, and he ran to catch up.

Andy ran slap bang into Jess, who had just edged past Slim. He grabbed Andy by his shoulders and held him.

"What is it Andy?" His eyes looked beyond the boy expecting to see something.

Slim and Jonesy took a position close to them both.

"Andy?" questioned Slim.

Andy turned and pointed at the shed, "In there," he gasped.

"What…what's in there?" Slim looked in the direction Andy was pointing.

"I don't know Slim…but I think its hurt and in pain. We need to help it."

"Alright, Andy," said Jonesy. "We'll help."

Jess looked over at Jonesy, "Yeah, right Jonesy. But what are we helping?" His sixth sense told him what it might be after his experience at the line shack.

Carefully putting Andy to one side Jess looked at Slim who nodded back. Each taking a deep breath they took the last few steps to the shed. They could see the glow from the lantern that Andy had put on the floor but not much else.

"Maybe we need more light," queried Slim.

"Good thinking Slim."

"I'll go get a couple from the barn," replied Jonesy. "Come with me Andy,"

Slim and Jess didn't talk while they waited. Slim thought about the creature he'd got a glimpse of, and Jess was remembering the size of the thing that had knocked him over.

Andy and Jonesy were back. Andy held two lit lanterns and gave one each to his brother and, as he liked to think of Jess, adopted brother.

"Here."

Slim and Jess took the lights and lifting them high they walked into the shed, guns still drawn.

Jess, in front, suddenly stopped and Slim barrelled into him,

"Ouch,"

"Well, you shouldn't have stopped so sudden," Slim hissed at him.

"I stopped because of that,"

Slim looked at where Jess was looking. Now Slim, never usually lost for words, couldn't think of a thing to say. He stared at the creature before him and was struck dumb. Like Andy, his eyes were telling him something was there, but his brain was refusing to listen.

Chapter 8

Jess made the first move. He placed the lantern on a hook on a ceiling beam. He put his gun back in its holster and knelt level with the animal. He didn't know what it was but in his mind it was some kind of animal. He broke the silence.

"It's hurting Slim." Jess ran his eyes over the animal's body. "No, she's hurting, she's having a baby. We gotta help her."

Slim finally found his voice. "How we gonna to do that?"

From the doorway, Jonesy said, "Like we'd help any female in that predicament. I'll go get some towels and hot water. Come on Andy.

"I'll be right with you Jonesy. I just need to bring a box for the meadowlark." Andy bent down and picked up the box he had dropped earlier. On his way past the barn, he grabbed a handful of hay to make a comfortable bed for the young bird. He'd forgotten about it and felt guilty. He found Jonesy in the kitchen putting pans on to boil.

"Is the bird okay?"

"I don't know Andy; he's on the floor by the stove."

Andy carefully lifted the towel covering the bowl and was greeted with a wheezy hiss. Andy very carefully picked up the bird and placed him in the box. He gave him some water and gently felt the wings.

"I don't think it's broken. Maybe it's just stunned. I'll leave it covered and hopefully it'll recover."

"Yeah, maybe it saw that creature out there. Left me pretty stunned I can tell you. Right now, she needs our help. Get some of those old towels and blankets and then give me a hand with this water."

*Alright Jonesy, but what are we gonna do with her and where did she come from and…" Andy was full of questions.

"I don't know Andy but later will be the right time to talk about it."

Slim joined Jess kneeling by the creature. He looked into her face, the brown eyes watched him back, and he could see the pain and tiredness in them but also something else, gentleness. He didn't know how but he knew she wouldn't hurt them. Jess had seen it too.

"I don't think she'll hurt us Slim, she just needs help." Jess stood up and started to undo his shirt; he took it off and hung it on a convenient nail. Slim did the same.

Jess knelt again and very gently placed his hand on the creature's face, he began to slowly rub her cheek with his fingers. All the while talking to her softly.

"It's gonna be alright. We'll help you. Don't be frightened…."

The creature slowly let her eyes shut and pushed her face into his hand.

Slim took advantage of the moment and looked to see if he could spot the baby. He'd never delivered a human child. He'd seen it happen once a few years ago, and he figured this couldn't be much different.

He sat back on his haunches and frowned. Jess looked over his shoulder at him,

"Well, what can you see?"

"I can see the head, or at least the top few inches." He looked toward the entrance to the shed, "Where are they with that water. I'm hoping Jonesy has got some answers about this."

"Gee Slim, we've delivered dozens of calves between us, and this can't be that different?"

"Different enough Jess. There's always somewhere to tie a rope to a calf, but this…"

Andy and Jonesy bustled into the shed. They were carrying a huge supply of blankets and towels and a large container of water and a bar of soap. He handed the soap to Slim.

"Here scrub yourself down with this, and then you Jess. Andy and I will lay a couple of blankets on the ground. Anything happening yet?"

"I think I can see the head. The mother's obviously exhausted or she'd have got this over with a while ago."

"Right Slim, I think you've got to get your fingers around that head and gently pull it towards you. She'll probably help when she feels it moving."

Slim knelt on the blanket covered ground and very carefully reached towards the baby's head. His fingers slipped against it, but he tried again, and managed to get a grip. Very slowly he pulled back.

The creature groaned slightly and went to move away.

"Don't let her move Jess. Talk to her, like you did before, it seemed to settle her."

Jess mumbled words of encouragement,

"That's a girl…steady…it's gonna be fine…"

As Slim predicted, the creature calmed down and he felt the baby move towards him.

"Watch the shoulders Slim," said Jonesy, "Turn them slightly."

Suddenly the creature gave an almighty push and the baby slid out onto Slim, catching him off balance and pushing him to the floor.

He looked at the baby resting in his arms and couldn't believe the size of it.

"Is it alive?" asked Andy. His eyes were wide with amazement and worry that it had not survived.

Slim struggled to his feet, "Yes, its fine, Andy?" He could feel its heart beating against him and the warm breath on his chest.

"How's the mother Jess?"

"Exhausted, but still with us. Here, bring the young un over to her."

Slim walked the few steps to the mother and knelt, very gently putting the baby next to her.

The creature lovingly picked her baby up and put her arms around it. She carefully looked the baby all over, as if she were checking for toes and fingers. She looked up at Slim and Jess, who were now standing side by side in front of her. Her brown eyes shone.

"You'd think she was thanking us," remarked Slim.

"I reckon she is," replied Jess.

Jonesy picked up the blankets and towels and told Andy to pick up the soap and what was left of the water.

"Let's get her some fresh water and something to eat, and then we'll leave them to get acquainted some," he said.

"What is she gonna eat, Jonesy?" asked Andy.

"Well, I think she's more than likely a vegetarian, which means she eats fruit and vegetables, so I'll make her up a nice plate and you get the water."

Slim and Jess looked at one another, "Jonesy; he's such a mother hen," remarked Slim. They stood watching mother and baby for a while longer until Andy came back with water and Jonesy with the food.

All of them quietly tiptoed away, shutting the shed door behind them.

Chapter 9

Once in the house, cleaned up and sitting down to their supper, Jess voiced what they had all be thinking.

"So what are we going to do with them? They can't stay here forever."

"Yeah, we'll have to think on that. I've got a spark of an idea forming." Slim tucked into the beef stew that Jonesy had cooked, "We'll talk about it in the morning, right now I'm famished."

Andy was the first one to rise the next day. He looked over at Jonesy in the bed by the window still asleep. He picked up his clothes and carefully and as quietly as he could opened the door. The door gave a small creak, enough for Jonesy to open his eyes.

"Where are you off to?" Andy jumped at the sound of his voice.

"I couldn't sleep so I thought I'd just go and…." His voice tapered off.

Jonesy sat up and run his hand through his grey hair. He looked across at Andy and furrowed his brow.

"As if I didn't know. I'm not sure you should go on your own. Slim wouldn't like it. Hold on and I'll come with you."

Stretching his arms, he stood up and cautiously eased his back. He pulled on his pants and put his shirt on. Buttoning it up he reached for his hat and placed it on his head.

Andy watched all this patiently. When he'd been a kid, he thought Jonesy had slept in his hat and was surprised when he found out that was not so.

"I'm ready, are you?" smiled Jonesy.

Andy looked down and found that he was still holding his clothes.

"Oh…yeah, Won't be a minute Jonesy," he said bashfully as he pulled his clothes on.

Together they tiptoed out of the room and to the front door. Turning the key as slowly as they could it gave a squeak.

"Why is it Jonesy, that when you try and be quiet everything goes against you," whispered Andy.

"Just as well," Slim stood in the doorway of his room with his boots in his hand. Behind him a deep voice mumbled "Shut that darn door so I can go back to sleep."

"Going somewhere?" he directed at Jonesy and Andy.

Andy sighed, "You know we are Slim. We're gonna check on…what can I call her. I can't call her Big Man." Andy thought for a few seconds, "I know I'll call her Molly."

"Molly?" asked Slim.

"Yeah, she just looks like a Molly."

Slim raised his eyebrows, "Ok, Molly it is. But just because you've given her a name, you can't keep her, or the baby. Understand?"

"Of course, I can't keep her Slim. Whatever gave you that idea? She needs to go home."

Slim caught sight of Jonesy, a grin on his face. Both knew that many animals had become pets once Andy named them but not this one it seemed and for that Slim was mighty relieved.

Jonesy stepped into the kitchen and rattled the grate; he added some wood and the embers roared into life. He placed the coffee pot on the stove and then picked up a bowl of apples and berries.

"Best not go empty handed. Andy, take a bucket of fresh water as well."

In a few minutes, Jonesy, Andy and Slim were quietly walking across the yard towards the old shed. Outside Slim lit a lantern and mindful of what had happened to Jess, he carefully opened the door.

The creature or Molly as she was now known was sitting in the corner with the baby in her arms,

"Give me the water and food," Slim said, "If she's going to go for anyone, I'd rather it be me."

He placed the light on a hook by the door, and slowly moved inside.

"Hi there little lady. We've brought you some food and water," he quietly said.

"It's Molly," hissed Andy.

Slim placed the bucket on the floor and put the food beside it. He picked up the empty bowls from last night, and slowly backed away.

Molly looked at them, and leisurely put her hand in the bucket. She raised it to her mouth and slurped the water cupped in it. She then picked up the bucket and drank. Putting the now empty bucket down, she picked up the berries and put them in her mouth, chewing unhurriedly.

"Gosh, she was sure thirsty," said Andy. Without thinking he moved towards the bucket and grabbed it. Molly held the baby tight to her but didn't move. The baby wriggled and protested.

"Steady Andy," whispered Slim.

Andy stayed crouched down. Molly extended her arm and gently touched Andy on his chest.

Slim held his breath.

Andy looked her in the eyes and saw the same kindness and gentleness that Slim and Jess had seen the night before.

A voice came from behind them, "It's alright Slim, she's simply curious, she can see Andy is smaller. Most likely thinks he's the baby."

Three heads turned to see Jess standing in the doorway tucking in his shirt. It was obvious that he hadn't brushed his hair, though he had managed to drag his boots on. He yawned.

"All that racket you were making in the kitchen; thought I'd get up and see what was going on. They okay?"

He stepped into the shed and knelt next to Andy.

"Hey girl," he said.

The creature considered him and moved her hand from Andy and put it on Jess. There was no pressure just a soft touch.

"She's not girl, Jess, she's called Molly," said Andy, anxious to fill him in on this important development.

"Molly?" Jess glanced at Slim who was now squatting next to him.

"You haven't let him name her have ya? You know what that means. It's one thing having small critters around the place, but one this size!"

"It'll be alright Jess," said Slim placing a reassuring hand on his Pard's shoulder.

"Even Andy knows he can't keep this one."

Jonesy had been following the conversation. He changed the subject,

"Well, seeing as the new temporary member of our family is fed and watered, I'll go in and start breakfast."

Jess got to his feet and yawned again, "Good idea. Any coffee on yet?"

"Course there is, that was why I was making all that racket!"

Over breakfast they discussed what to do next about Molly and her baby. Slim thought he would ride out to the Cheyenne camp and try to find his old friend. He knew they would have an idea of where Molly came from. He would ask for their help to get her back home.

"I'll see if I can find Tika. Remember, Andy, I told you about the Cheyenne boy I used to play with. He told me tales going far back in tribal history about these Big Hairy creatures. I didn't really believe him at the time, but now, well guess it was true. I'm sure he can help. I saw him about a year ago. If anyone can help, I'm sure he can."

"I think that's the best plan Slim. Sooner we get her away from here and back to her home, the better. As it is it's gonna be difficult to hide her away." Jonesy removed the empty platter from the middle of the table.

Jess wiped his mouth on the chequered napkin he had tucked around his neck.

"That was great Jonesy." He looked over at Slim, "I agree with Jonesy, sooner the better. Do you want me to ride over with you?"

"No, I'll be fine. Should take two days there, two days back. I'll be home by the end of the week. Besides, you need to stay here and keep an eye on things."

"Oh yeah, lots to keep an eye on here; the stage coming in, harness to fix, and shoeing, checking the cattle and keeping Molly outta sight. I think I drew the short straw. When you going?" Jess asked.

"Now, as soon as I get a few things together. Andy go and saddle Alamo for me."

Slim stood up and walked toward the bedroom door. "Jonesy can you fix me some food?"

Jonesy's voice came from the kitchen. "Already on it Slim."

Half an hour later Slim loped out of the yard, a gunny sack tied to his saddle with enough food to feed six men.

"Come on Jonesy, I don't need all that. Jess isn't coming with me."

"Hey, you implying I eat a lot,"

"Not implying Pard. Just saying how it is." Slim grinned at Jess.

"Better be safe than sorry," retorted Jonesy. "Don't want you going hungry. You're not in the best humour when you go hungry."

"You getting me muddled with Jess again?"

"Well guess that's something you two have in common then. Now you had best get going. Sooner you're gone the sooner you get back and hopefully we can solve our little problem."

Chapter 10

Slim pushed Alamo as fast as he dared. The horse had been rested for a couple of days and was eager to get on. After a good few hours, he found a place to stop with decent grass and water. Slim didn't hobble Alamo; the horse never went far from him. He wandered down to the stream and stuck his muzzle into the cool water and then settled down to eat the sweet grass; always keeping one eye on his master.

Slim sat down against a rock and opened the bag of food. He pulled out a couple of biscuits stuffed with cold meat. He munched on these while contemplating the rest of the journey. He hoped Tika was there, but he knew others he could ask for help. As far as he remembered the tribes revered the 'Big Man' so help might be a bit slow coming, but once he explained he knew they would want to protect the young one. He rummaged in the bag again and found an apple. He took a large bite from it. I know someone who would want some of this, he thought. Packing the leftovers away for later, he took half the apple to Alamo.

"Come on son, let us get going. Reckon we can still cover some miles before sundown."

He patted Alamo on the side of the neck and gave him the apple. He took it carefully in his teeth and crunched it up in seconds, dribbling some of the juice out of the corners of his mouth, his eyes half closed in delight. Slim laughed at him. Saddling up and mounting he turned Alamo eastwards pushing him into a gentle ground covering lope.

By sundown Slim was settled into his camp. He figured he was just over halfway to his destination. With as good a day as he had just had he should get there tomorrow or if not early the day after. He finished off the coffee and ate the beans he had heated on the fire and wrapped himself in his blanket. Alamo stood hipshot and relaxed a few feet away.

The weather next day was still kind to him. Slim made an early start and, apart for one stop for lunch, he was soon within a mile or two of the camp. Alamo jogged along, his ears going back and forth, listening to Slim as he talked to him, but also listening to sounds from up ahead. Slim had no doubt his horse could hear the noises from the Indian ponies.

Slim rode over a small hill and drew rein at the top. Stretched out before him in the valley was a mass of tepees. He could make out a herd of horses grazing on the banks of the river that wound along the boundary of the camp. He nudged Alamo into a walk; soon he was splashing through the water and up the other side. He entered the village.

As soon as the Cheyenne braves noticed a stranger among them, they appeared from their tepees; some followed by their womenfolk and children, and some on their own. Slim rode steadily through the centre of the village and stopped in front of a man standing outside the biggest lodge. The man had watched Slim approach and now welcomed him with a huge smile. Slim returned the smile and took in the man in front of him. Long black hair fell below his shoulders, two red wing feathers tied to the back and beads woven into the ends. Dark, almost black eyes looked back at him set above high cheek bones and a strong aquiline nose.

Slim dismounted and held out his hand which was grasped by two strong hands.

"My friend, a long time since we have set eyes on each other."

"Too long," replied Slim. "It is good to see you Tika."

A young brave stepped forward and took Alamo from Slim.

"Do not worry, he will be taken care of. Now come into my lodge and tell me what brings you here. I suspect it wasn't just to see an old friend."

"As always you are right, it does my heart good to see you, but yes I do need your help and council." Slim replied as he followed Tika into the lodge.

Once inside, Tika gestured for Slim to sit. He called a woman over and asked her to get some food and water for their visitor. "This is my wife, Running Bird. She and I have been together five year and have three children. Do you have a wife?"

"No, not yet. Maybe one day. Been too busy running the ranch."

"Do not leave it too long Slim. It is a wonderful thing when you find the right woman."

Slim smiled, "You should tell that to my partner. He's more cautious than I am."

At that moment, Running Bird returned with refreshments.

"Your partner?" Tika asked.

"Yes, Jess Harper. He's been working with me for a while now. He loves the ranch as much as I do, so a while back I made him a partner. Never regretted it; I'd trust him with my life. He is a good man and friend. But we have a problem which I hope you can help us with."

"Eat and drink Slim. Then tell me how I can help."

Slim helped himself to the meat and fruit that had been set before him. When he had eaten enough, he began.

"Do you remember as a child you told me about the 'Bigmen', and how I didn't believe you. I do now. I've got one back at the ranch. It's a female. She has a baby with her. I have no idea where she came from or how to get her back and that is why I need your help."

Tika smiled to himself, "I haven't seen one for many years. I was worried that they were gone. Do not be concerned Slim. I need to talk to the elders, and in the morning, we will make plans."

Tika stood up. "Come, I will show you where you can rest." He paused in the entrance. "I am known as Red Wing now. Chief Red Wing but I am happy to be called Tika by you. It brings back childhood memories and good times. Rest and later we will talk about those memories."

Slim lay down in the comfort of soft blankets and wrapped them around him. He hadn't realised how tired he was. If Tika wished to talk later, he knew it would go on deep into the night. As he remembered Tika liked to talk. He shut his eyes.

Slim woke early. As he had predicted he and Tika had talked long into the night bringing back memories of adventures that they had both forgotten. He pulled his boots on, buttoned his shirt and vest and grabbed his hat. Opening the tepee flap, he went outside. The day was already warming up, and white clouds floated past on the horizon.

He found Running Bird already up and making breakfast.

"Morning."

She shyly smiled back at him, "Red Wing has gone to speak to the elders. He will come and find you when he has news."

"I'll be down by the river."

He turned and made his way towards the water. He wanted to check on Alamo. He put his fingers into his vest pocket and found a sugar lump. He wasn't sure how long it had been there, but he knew Alamo wouldn't care about that.

He found his beloved horse tethered to the end of a long rope. A young boy was tending him. Alamo saw Slim and gave a welcoming whinny. The young boy started and looked around, so engrossed in what he was doing he had not heard anyone approach.

"It's okay, you're doing a fine job with him," reassured Slim. He rubbed Alamo on the nose and gave him the sugar.

"He is a good horse. Have you had him long?" the boy's natural shyness was overcome by his keenness to hear about the horse.

"Since he was born. His mother died and I raised him, hand fed him. He used to follow me everywhere. A few times I even took him in my room and let him sleep on my bed. My ma wasn't too happy about that I can tell you. Made me wash the bedsheets myself." Slim smiled at the memory.

"You look after the horses?" he asked the young boy.

"It is my job, but I do not mind. They talk to me, and I understand them."

"You speak good English. Who taught you?" enquired Slim.

"Red Wing. He is my elder brother. He said it would help us in a white man's world."

Let us hope he is right, thought Slim. "How old are you?".

"I have seen fourteen summers. My name is Talks to Horses."

"I have a brother about your age. His name is Andy. He loves animals too. Maybe one day you will meet him."

Slim heard a soft footfall behind him and turned.

"You have good hearing Slim," said Red Wing. "Come we will eat and then go to see the elders. It is good news. I see you have met my brother. He smiled at the young boy.

"Yes, he has looked after Alamo very well."

After breakfast, Slim and Red Wing went to the elder's tent. When he crouched down and walked into the tepee, Slim got an immediate impression of excitement, which he thought was odd since the elder's faces were showing no expressions. However, they welcomed him and Red Wing in and bade them sit.

Red Wing made introductions. "My friend," he said. "Here are the tribe elders, Grey Wolf, Fights Bears, Stands Tall, and Eagle Feather."

Slim nodded to them.

Red Wing continued, "This is my old friend Slim Sherman."

Fights Bears spoke. "I speak for us all. Red Wing has told us of your problem. We are happy to help. It is a long time since any of us have had contact with the Bigmen and it is something we would like to set right. Some of us; Grey Wolf, Stands Tall, Red Wing, and Talks to Horses will come with you. I would like to come but my age will not allow and besides Eagle Feather and I need to stay here. Bigmen have lived in the mountains outside Laramie since time began. We can show you where and help you return her and the baby to her people."

"You make it sound easy," said Slim.

"It will be," replied Red Wing. "My people speak the same words as the Bigmen. Not just in sounds but in actions too. She will recognise us as friends."

"So, when do we leave?" Slim wanted to know.

"We will leave this morning. Provisions have been made ready. I knew you would want to leave as soon as you could," said Red Wing. "Here comes Talks to Horses with our mounts."

Slim turned to see a group of horses being led towards them. Alamo was in the lead. The sun shone off his brushed coat. Slim took his reins from the young Cheyenne and patted him on the neck. Alamo rubbed his head along Slim's arm; glad to be back with his owner.

"He looks great Talks to Horses. I can see how you have a feeling for horses. And you are coming with us?"

"Yes, I am happy with that."

"Well, looks like you are going to meet my brother after all."

The Cheyenne said goodbye to their families and within the hour they were riding away from the village. They decided to travel across country and avoid as many people as they could. No-one wanted to explain just where they were going and for what reason.

The party set into an easy lope. Slim looked ahead and wondered how everyone at the ranch was getting on.

Chapter 11

Andy, Jess and Jonesy had watched Slim ride out the yard and up the hill, disappearing out of sight as he crested the top.

Jonesy took a deep breath. "Well now, let's go in, have coffee and make some plans. It's gonna be mighty difficult to keep that Mama and her baby outta sight, especially with the stages in and out twice a day."

"You're right Jonesy," agreed Jess. "I was thinking the first thing we can do is make that shed more comfortable for her and one of us will have to stay with her all day and night. Take it in turns to keep an eye."

"But she'll need to get out Jess," said Andy. "It'd be horrible to be cooped up in that shed all day and night."

"I know Andy," acknowledged Jess. He'd had his fair share of being locked up and knew how bad it could be. "Maybe at night, but it's only gonna be for a few days, just as soon as Slim gets back with help." He drained his cup and glanced at the clock.

Scraping his chair back he stood up.

"Stage will be in soon, let's go get the horses ready and then we can get on with things."

Mose arrived on time, and fortunately with one passenger who once he'd used the outhouse, seemed eager to move on. Mose insisted on a piece of apple pie and coffee and then begrudgingly went on his way.

"Sorry Mose, with Slim away I gotta a lot to do. Haven't got time to talk." Jess said as he more or less shoved Mose up into the driving seat.

"Alright, alright, I'm going. You can make it up to me next time." He carefully took up the lines, knocked the brake off with his foot and guided the horses out of the yard. He'd got halfway to his destination before he remembered he hadn't given Jess the message from Mort. He felt in his pocket and brought out the piece of paper.

"Aww, well if it had been important, Mort would have brung the news hisself," he muttered.

"I'll give it to Jess tomorrow." He placed the paper back in his pocket.

So it was that Jess was totally ignorant of the fact that Mort had had a warning of outlaws in the area, and not just any outlaws. This was the Walker gang. Known for stage holdups, robberies, rustling and horse thieving, and killing anyone who got in their way. A nasty bunch at their best.

At the moment Mose had remembered the note, Mort was sitting at his desk looking at the wanted posters for the gang. It added up to a fair sum. Studying the faces, he made the decision to ride out to the Sherman Ranch the next day and make sure they were aware. He'd given Mose a message, but now he felt more comfortable going out there himself. The news on the outlaws was they had entered Wyoming from Dakota Territory a couple of days ago, so there was time before they hit Laramie, that is if they hit Laramie. He hadn't mentioned it to Mose but made a mental note to do that as well. He went back to studying the posters.

The rest of the day passed all too quickly for the people at the Sherman Ranch. Jess and Andy tidied up the shed so that Molly could have more room. They slowly moved rubbish away and brought in straw bales, all the time talking quietly. Molly sat with her baby on her lap, feeding and grooming him.

"She seems alright with us Jess," said Andy softly.

"Yep, she does, but don't forget Andy, as gentle as she seems, she is an animal, and a very strong one at that." Jess rubbed his head where it was still sore from the door hitting him, when Molly had pushed past him.

"I don't think we can call her an animal Jess. She seems to understand a lot of what is going on."

Jess looked at Andy whose big brown eyes were wide with excitement. "Animals understand a lot Andy but what is she? What do we call her?"

"I don't know Jess. She's just Molly."

Jess grinned. "Ok Andy, she's a Molly."

Jonesy came in carrying food and a blanket. "I've made lunch. Cold cuts, I'm afraid. I'll take first watch while you two go eat."

He put the blanket down and leant against a hay bale.

"Will you be alright Jonesy," asked Andy. "You won't want to make your back worse."

"I'll be fine. It's not every day that a person gets to spend a few hours with a gal like Molly. Now scoot, get your food before Jess finishes it."

After lunch Jess put his head around the shed door. He could hear Jonesy's voice muttering away. Molly was lying down within touching distance and the baby was sound asleep.

'Well, I never, thought Jess. 'At last, someone who doesn't mind listening to Jonesy's stories.' He gently closed the door and walked to the barn. He would have liked to bring Molly into the barn but wasn't sure how the other livestock would take it. He knew Traveler wouldn't have been keen at all and he didn't have time to chase after upset horses.

He went over to Traveler, poured some grain into his trough and scratched his chin. "Hi boy," he said softly. Traveler snorted at him and shook his head. "You smell her on me don't ya. She won't be here long, I hope."

Leaving Traveler to his grain, he eyed the pile of harness that needed mending. "Come on Jess," he said to himself, "That won't get done if ya just look at it."

Pulling up an old stool, he sat down and started the repairs. It was here that Andy found him an hour or two later.

"I thought I'd go and take over from Jonesy, if that's alright."

"Sure, Andy. But remember what I said earlier."

"I will, I promise."

As he walked towards the barn exit Jess called him back

"Andy, ya done your homework?"

"Certainly have. That's what I've been doing. Gosh Jess, you're sounding like Slim."

"Good, 'cause it'll be me gets it in the neck if you ain't" replied Jess.

Later that evening, after dark, Jess opened the door to the shed. Molly stood up and very slowly walked outside. She left the baby inside.

Disappearing into the vegetation she returned a few minutes later and stood looking into the distance. Her nostrils twitched as she picked up unfamiliar scents, but also a very faint familiar scent. She turned and faced the direction it had come from. She shut her eyes and took a deep breath.

"What is she doing?" asked Andy.

"I don't know," replied Jess, "But I could guess she's looking towards her home. Maybe she's caught something on the wind."

"I hope so. I'd hate to be lost."

Jess ruffled Andy's hair. "Don't you worry 'bout that Andy. Slim and me and Jonesy wouldn't let it happen."

Molly walked back to her temporary home, bending as she went through the door. She laid down and nestled next to her baby.

At that moment, Jonesy bustled out with more blankets and a mug of coffee.

"Here Jess. You'll probably need these. It'll get colder later. You'll be alright out here?" He handed Jess the coffee.

Jess laughed, "Sure I will Jonesy. I've slept in worse places and it's not the first time I've bedded down with a female."

"What do you mean Jess?" asked an innocent eyed Andy.

Jonesy gave Jess a hard look and swivelled his eyes in Andy's direction. Jess realised what he had just said and thought fast.

"Well, you know Andy, umm. When I was a kid, I had to share a room with my sisters, sometimes a bed as well."

"Oh, I see," replied Andy, but the slight smirk on his face told Jess that maybe Andy was not so dumb on the subject after all.

"I'll see you in the morning then, Jess."

Jonesy frowned at Jess, "You sometimes need to think before you open that big mouth of yours."

"I know Jonesy. Sorry."

Jonesy took the now empty cup from Jess's hand and gently patted him on the shoulder.

"Yeah, I know. See you in the morning."

Chapter 12

Next day Jess was up before anyone else. It was going to be a good one, and he wanted to get a head start on the morning chores. He'd spent a lot of the night talking to Molly, telling her things about his life that he had told no other, not even Slim. She had sat watching him as if she understood and Jess felt a lot better for letting some of his past go, and even better that it wouldn't be repeated. He'd even managed to get a few hours' sleep. Once in the night, he had felt Molly gently pat him on his back. It had reassured him, and he thought, maybe it had reassured her too.

In Laramie, Mort had risen early and decided to ride over to the Sherman Ranch after breakfast. He'd stayed in the jail last night and had laid awake for most of the time worrying about the Walker Gang. Consequently, he wasn't thinking too hard or paying too much attention when he stepped outside the jailhouse door. Something solid ran into him, caught him behind the knees and sent him to the floor, His head knocked against the hard wood and the last thing he heard was someone shouting. Before he blacked out, something cold and wet pressed against his cheek.

The blacksmiths son, Danny, stopped and looked down at Mort.

"Oh gosh, what have you done now?" he said to the unruly, scruffy calf sized dog standing by his side. The dog grinned at him and wagged his tail.

"I'd better go get help," He ran across the road towards the edge of town where his father was just setting up for the day. The dog followed.

"Pa, Pa," he called.

Raising his head, Dan Snr. saw his son racing towards him. He ran to meet him.

"What's up son," He held the boy by the shoulders until he had caught his breath.

When he had calmed a little, the boy told his father what had happened.

Telling his son to go and fetch the doctor, he hurried over to where Mort still lay. He checked that Mort was still breathing and waited for the Doc to arrive.

Within a few minutes Danny arrived back with the Doc in tow. The dog gambling around them as if it was a great game.

"Grab hold of that dog Danny, we don't want any more accidents."

"Yes Pa," Danny reached into his pocket and found a piece of string. Grabbing the dog, he tied it around its neck.

Doc stooped down by Mort and checked his pulse and breathing, he then felt the back of Mort's head where he found a large lump.

"We need to get him back to my office. Reckon he's not gonna come out of this for a while, probably concussed. Can you lift him?"

In answer, the blacksmith bent down and picked Mort up as if he were a feather. "This is nothing compared to all the horses I have to hold up when shoeing," he said. "Lead the way Doc."

Once safely in the bed in the back room at the Doc's surgery, and with the sheets drawn up to his neck Mort began to stir.

"What happened…where am I?"

"Now Mort, its Doc Morris here. You've had a little accident. Nothing to worry about, but you might have concussion, so I want you to just lie still."

"But I can't…" began Mort. He tried to sit up but immediately fell back against the pillows. "Aargh, I think I'm gonna throw up."

The Doc grabbed a bowl, but Mort managed to keep whatever it was down.

"I think you are a little concussed Mort. You're staying there and no arguments."

"Alright Doc, you win. But there was something I needed to do…wish I could remember."

"You will Mort. Just get some rest now." The Doc pulled the curtains shut and left the room.

Mose had made it into Cheyenne the day after Jess had so unceremoniously sent him on this way. Cheyenne was the end of the trail as far as the stage was concerned. He didn't always do the complete journey. There was a small town, well a general store, saloon, boarding house about 30 miles outside Cheyenne. Mose usually stayed there overnight and changed drivers but a couple of them were off sick and he was quite happy to fill in. It meant more dollars and time to poke around Cheyenne.

He was not too old to enjoy a game of poker and a drink in the local saloon, which was where he was now. He never played for too much money and only had a couple of drinks. He was aware he had to start the journey back tomorrow.

He was just examining his hand and wondering if the man sitting opposite him was going to fold or play when a fight broke out in the back of the room. From what he could make out someone had accused someone of cheating. Tables were being pushed over and chairs flew through the air. Mose, with his usual survival instinct picked up his money, slipped out of his chair, and headed for the door. The others at his table were not far behind him. He heard a gunshot followed by another and felt a burning pain in the muscle of his upper arm.

The saloon doors flew open and the sheriff ran in followed by two deputies, shotguns at the ready. He fired a barrel at the ceiling.

"What the Sam Hill is going on here?" he yelled.

The room became quiet and still. Walking across to the barman, he loudly asked "Who started this?"

The barman pointed to the two culprits who were now sprawled on the floor; one holding his shoulder where a bullet had grazed him and the other rubbing his head, his gun still in his hand and a large bruise already forming.

"I might have known. Suppose one accused the other of cheating."

The barman nodded and went back to his glass cleaning.

Grabbing the offenders by the shoulders, he hauled them up. Removing their guns, he pushed them towards his deputies.

"Here lock these two up. When they are sober, we'll see what the damage is?" He looked around the room. "Anyone else hurt?"

"Over here Sheriff," called a voice. Frowning he could see the back of someone sitting in a chair.

He strolled over, "Mose! How'd you get involved." He examined the wound. "You're gonna need the Doc."

"I weren't trying to get involved. I was heading for the door." Mose looked down at his wound. The bullet appeared to have gone straight through but there where wood splinters surrounding the entry site. "Reckon the bullet must have gone through that table."

"You were lucky Mose. That kid is too gun happy. We'll see what the judge has to say in the morning. Can you get to the Doc or do you want someone to get him to you?"

Mose rose from his chair. "Nothing wrong with my legs."

Assisted by one of his poker friends Mose walked to the Doc's. Knocking on the door it was opened by the doctor himself.

"Come in, we were just saying when we heard the shots, wonder who'll be coming here. Didn't think it would be you Mose. Take him into the surgery."

An hour later, the splinters removed, the bullet wound sewn up and feeling more comfortable Mose sat on the edge of the bed.

"You know Doc, all them years I've been driving that stage never taken a bullet, not even in the couple of holdups I been in; playing a friendly game of poker and this happens."

"I can tell you Mose. You won't be driving that stage for a few days. That arm needs rest. Now stretch out on that bed and get some sleep. I'll check on you later."

Mose did as he was told. 'This bed is sure soft,' he thought. He suddenly remembered the note he was supposed to give Jess and just as quickly forgot it as his eyes closed.

So it was that all at the Sherman ranch had absolutely no idea that an outlaw gang was possibly in the area. Jess hadn't ventured into Laramie so didn't hear about Mort and the first time he knew about Mose was when the stage pulled in with a new driver and Frankie riding shotgun.

Chapter 13

Jess watched the stage come down the hill. Andy was sitting with Molly and the baby and Jonesy was preparing sandwiches and coffee for the passengers. He crossed the yard to greet the stage and opened the door. Inside were six passengers, two women and four men.

"Howdy folks, coffee and sandwiches inside, if anyone wants refreshments."

Everyone trudged inside. Talking amongst themselves as they went,

"Nice to be able to stretch my legs,"

"I could drink a coffee."

"A sandwich sounds nice."

"Wish these stages had padded seats."

"Isn't this place cute."

"Not as cute as the cowboy over there."

Overhearing the last two remarks from the women, Jess resolved to stay outside, change the horses and chat to Mose and Frankie. He walked around the stage and looked at the driver getting down, he didn't recognise him.

"Where's Mose?" he asked.

"The name's Bill Smith," the driver said holding out his hand. Jess automatically shook it. "It seems that Mose is unable to drive at the moment. Do you mind if I go in for a coffee?"

"No, help yourself."

Glancing at Frankie while watching Bill Smith walk to the house, Jess asked, "What happened, Frankie. Is Mose okay?"

"Yeah, he got in the way of a bullet during a poker game. There was a bit of gun play over an imagined disagreement and Mose was just in the wrong place. Bullet caught him here." Frankie patted the top of his arm. "Doc told him he had to rest it for at least a week."

"He's not gonna like that. Sounds like it could have been a lot worse. Wouldn't be the same without Mose."

"Yep, I'd miss him. You should hear the stories he can tell. Have another one to add now," said Frankie. "Come on Jess, I'll help you with the team."

Once the horses were in place and ready to go, Frankie sidled up to Jess and spoke quietly to him.

"The superintendent wanted me to tell ya that day after tomorrow we'll be carrying a large payroll. He wants to keep it hushed up but wants you to know. It'll be coming in on the second stage. You'll tell Slim?"

Frankie looked about, "Say, where is Slim?"

"He had some personal business to attend to. He'll be back in a couple of days. Where did they find Bill Smith, I thought there was a shortage of drivers?"

"As far as I know, he turned up a few days ago asking for work. The boss was pleased to see him and gave him this run when Mose was hurt. He seems friendly enough, but there's something about him; don't talk much but keeps his eyes open. I don't know maybe I'm imagining things."

"I'd have thought keeping your eyes open is a good thing," replied Jess.

"Yeah, but…forget it, as I said I'm probably imagining it. After Mose talking all the time, I'm not used to the quiet and I've had to do my own thinking."

The ranch door opened, and the passengers poured out followed by Jonesy with a mug of coffee in his hand.

"Thanks Jonesy," said Jess.

"It's not for you. Here Frankie thought you might want one."

Frankie took the offered cup and drank it down.

"Yep, needed that, thanks." He gave the mug back to Jonesy.

The passengers and driver were back on the coach, Frankie climbed up onto the seat. Bill Smith removed the brake and shook the reins. The horses moved forward and were soon on their way to Laramie.

"Not sure about that new man Jess. Didn't say a word in the kitchen but sure took a good look around," said Jonesy.

"Frankie's not so keen either. I ain't got time to think about that now. I've gotta unharness the horses, clean them up, feed and water and check the tack over. You want to give me a hand?"

Jonesy was already on his way to the house,

"Love to Jess, but I got a lady to go and sit with."

The rest of the day passed as normal, except for one thing which when Jess thought about it later should have set his alarm bells off.

They all took turns to sit with Molly. All were becoming fond of her and, it would appear, her with them. Andy played with the baby and told Molly about his school and what he had learnt. He didn't tell her about the name Big Man, he thought she might not appreciate that.

Jonesy talked to her about recipes and the old days before he met Matt Sherman, and Jess dropped in from time to time in between keeping the chores under control.

Molly for her part seemed to understand that they were helping her and that she could only leave the shed after dark. She watched them with her intelligent almost black eyes and occasionally gently touched them.

The incident that Jess should have taken more notice of happened late afternoon. The stage pulled in about an hour late. Frankie was sitting in the shotgun seat and next to him was a different driver.

"Hey Charlie, thought you were sick," called Jess.

Charlie just grunted and stayed sitting in his seat.

Frankie climbed down and helped the two passengers out, "Food and drink inside if you want it. We'll be here about 30 minutes."

He helped Jess with the team and filled him in on the latest news from Laramie.

"Funny thing happened," he said. "When we got to the end of the trail in Laramie, Bill Smith just went into the office and said he wouldn't be driving anymore. No reason just collected his pay and left. Left us in a right state, that's why Charlie is back before he should be."

"There's no accounting for people," declared Jess. "I'd do it but with Slim away, I can't leave the place." Jess thought of Molly sitting a few yards away; no, he had to be there.

The passengers came out of the house and climbed into the stage, again followed by Jonesy with a mug in his hand.

"It's alright Jonesy, I know that one ain't for me." Jess grinned as the mug was handed to Frankie.

Noticing Charlie on the stage, Jonesy called to him. "You want coffee Charlie?"

He was greeted with a grimace and a shake of his head.

Frankie finished his drink and plonked the mug into Jess's hand.

He climbed up to his seat.

"Oh, I nearly forgot, Mort had a small accident involving a dog and got knocked out. The doc's looking after him. Nothing serious just mild concussion. Expect he could use your help as well Jess."

"Well they're just gonna have to wait, unless I can find a way to split myself into threes or fours."

Jess watched the stage disappear, going a bit slower than usual. He led the changed team into the corral and busied himself with the harness.

Traveler watched him from his stall. Jess stopped to spend a few minutes with his favourite. He scratched him on the nose and fed him a sugar lump.

"Alamo should be back tomorrow. Bet you'll be glad to see him. I know I'll be glad to see Slim."

Chapter 14

Later that evening the Walker Gang hit Laramie. Bill Walker, Bart Mason, brothers Eli and Pete Bell and Henry 'Soft Voice' Evans. All had known each other for years, fought in the civil war. When it was over, they went the wrong way and were now wanted in half a dozen states; Wyoming wasn't one of them.

The five of them had originally arranged to rendezvous a few miles outside of town, but after they had found out the sheriff was indisposed, they decided to meet at the Laramie Hotel. Outside the law they may be, but they enjoyed comfortable beds as much as the next person. If they all arrived at different times, they figured no one would put them together. When their leader Bill Walker, using the alias Bill Smith, had earlier given the town the once over, he had not seen any wanted posters with their faces on them.

So it was that they were all together in one of the two bedrooms they had hired at the hotel. The clerk had wanted their money upfront, and not wanting to draw much attention to themselves they had paid up.

"You are sure this relay station is easy to take?" questioned Bart.

"Sure, it'll be like taking candy from a baby," answered Bill. "There's one hand and one old man. If we can't take them then we might as well give up this business."

"What about the stage?" asked Eli.

"They wanna keep it like a normal stage run. A driver and shotgun should be all there is, but if not, we'll still have the advantage."

Bill reached into his saddle bags and produced a rough plan of the Sherman Ranch.

"Look here."

The others gathered around the table.

"We wait until the first stage has left. We know the money is coming in on the second stage."

"And we know this for sure?" whispered Henry. He never raised his voice, hence his nickname. He had been caught and nearly hung in the war. Bill and Bart had rescued him just as his horse bolted. People always underestimated Henry because of his voice but he was a mean one and truth be known had done nearly all the killing the gang were known for.

"The superintendent let it slip when I was in the room. I pretended I hadn't heard," smiled Bill. Henry always wanted to know the small details. The rest just wanted the overall plan.

"So, like I say we'll wait until the first stage has left and then seize the two men and wait until the payroll arrives. Eli and Bart, I want you to climb up here." He pointed at the plan. "You'll be able to see the road from there. When the stage appears, you come down and let us know. The rest of us will stay in the ranch house. Is everyone okay with that?"

"Why not kill 'em?" asked Pete who was almost as bloodthirsty as Henry.

"Because" whispered Henry indulgently. "We need them to be there for the stage. They'd maybe smell a rat if they weren't there to meet them. Afterwards, well that's a different story."

"It's nearly midnight; let's get some rest." said Bill. "Tomorrow we'll all be rich men."

Mort opened his eyes to find Doc's wife sitting on the chair next to him. She put down the book she was reading.

"How are you feeling Mort? I'll just get my husband." She stood up and left the room.

Mort wondered how he was feeling and found that he was actually feeling fine; a slight headache but he could put up with that. He pulled himself up against the pillows and carefully put his legs out of the bed and placed them on the floor. He looked around the room and saw his clothes folded neatly on a chair by the window. He stood up and slowly made it to his clothes. Sitting on the chair, he pulled on his pants and shirt and did up the buttons.

Doc came in as he was finishing. "Mort sit back down. Let me check you out."

"Fine Doc, but whatever you find, I gotta go. I've remembered something I have to do."

Doc gave Mort the once over. "Well, okay you can leave but take it easy. No hard riding for a few days."

Mort grabbed his gun belt. "Yeah sure Doc," he muttered. His mind already on other things.

Once outside he looked up and down the street. At the far end, a cloud of dust was settling as if a group of riders had gone by. He made his way to the jailhouse. Opening the door, he went in, disturbing his deputy, Chris, who was sitting in a chair, dozing with his hat pulled down and his feet on the table.

Mort sat down at his desk. He looked at the wanted posters for the Walker Gang.

"Anything to report son" he asked.

Chris sat upright.

"Err, no. Say Mort, err Sheriff, you alright, you look a bit pale."

"I'll be alright; nothing a good cup of coffee won't fix."

The young deputy leapt up. "I'll get it for you."

"No, I'll do it. Here take these and pin them up outside." Mort handed the wanted posters to Chris.

"Sure thing Sheriff. I'm glad you're back."

Mort helped himself to his coffee and sipped the hot brew. He wanted to get out to the Sherman Ranch as soon as he could.

He picked up an envelope containing a telegram. Opening it he saw it was from the Overland Stage Company.

"2nd Stage carrying large payroll" and it had today's date.

Outside Chris whistled happily as he nailed the posters to the wall. He was new to the job and had found it nerve-wracking without Mort.

People were starting to fill the streets. The hotel clerk walked past on his way to the bank. He stopped and looked hard at the picture drawings and descriptions on the posters. After a minute or two, he yanked open the jailhouse door and rushed in.

Mort jumped up, "Goddamm it, I could've shot you! Knock next time."

"Sorry Sheriff, but I just seen them posters. I think, no I'm sure them boys stayed in my hotel last night. I got a good eye for faces. I didn't like the look of a couple of 'em so I got my money upfront."

"What!" barked Mort, stuffing the telegram into his pocket. "Are they still in town?"

"No, they left early. Maybe old Abe at the livery saw which way they went?"

Mort had a good idea which way they went; he had seen that dust trail earlier. Picking up his rifle and spare ammo, he hurried out the door.

"Chris, go and round up some volunteers for a posse, you know who to ask. Meet me at the livery."

"Sure, thing Sheriff."

Mort jogged to the livery stable. "Abe!" he called.

Abe appeared through the open door. "Mort?"

"You see five men ride out of here early on. Would have probably been in a hurry."

Abe thought, "I did. Saw them head out onto the Cheyenne Road. You want your horse Mort?"

"I do, as quick as you can Abe. Get Chris's saddled as well."

In a short space of time, Mort, Chris and a few men they were able to get together at short notice were assembled. Mort thanked them for their help and told them what he thought was going on.

"The Walker Gang, I think they are going for the stage at the relay station".

"Well, heck Mort, let us get going. Slim and Jess always help us out so now it's our turn," said the Blacksmith, a regular volunteer. He also felt slightly guilty that it had been his son's dog that had put Mort out of action.

"Everyone ready. We'll take it easy. We've got a while to get into position before the stage arrives."

The Doc looked through his window and sighed when he saw Mort ride out. He shook his head.

He turned to where he had been sorting instruments and getting his bag ready. He had a feeling he might be needed before the day was through.

Chapter15

The early morning stage left the relay station on time. Two passengers, a man and his wife had got out and helped themselves to coffee and biscuits. They had both chatted to Jonesy and the wife had asked for his biscuit recipe, which Jonesy had happily given to her.

"The secret is in the buttermilk," he had said.

Jess came in for his morning coffee and sat down at the table. Andy had gone to be with Molly. Andy had a little secret that he was keeping from his elders, not because he was ashamed, but he wanted to get better at it before he told them or rather showed them. He had found out he had a talent for sketching, and he was working on a portrait of Molly.

"Nice couple," said Jonesy.

"Huh," replied Jess.

"I said, nice couple. They're going to be staying in Laramie for a few days."

"Mmm, yeah," answered Jess, looking down at his now empty mug. He could not remember drinking it.

"You're not listening are you," observed Jonesy, "What's up?"

"I been thinking about that driver that left in a hurry. There's something about him, like I seen him somewhere and his name Smith. Don't seem right to me. I just can't place him. Wish Slim was here, what with that payroll coming through."

"He could be back today, if everything went as he wanted it to." replied Jonesy.

"Hope you are right, Jonesy." Jess stood up and went to the stove for a refill.

The creaky floorboard on the porch squeaked. Jess looked up to see a shadow flit across the window. He dropped his hand to his gun, undoing the safety strap and lifting it from the holster in one smooth move. The door burst open, and two men pushed through the doorway. Guns in hand they shouted,

"I wouldn't do that if I were you! Hands up!"

"Drop the gun!"

"Or the old man will get it," whispered a third voice from the kitchen.

Jess spun round. A third man stood behind Jonesy holding a gun to his neck. Turning back to face the gunmen, he growled,

"Alright, I'm doing it."

Slowly he placed the gun on the floor.

"Stand back. Take off that belt, careful, use your left hand."

Jess let his belt fall to the ground and took a couple of paces away from it.

One of the gunmen came forward and kicked the gun and belt away. Jess watched it slide across the floor and come to a halt under Slim's desk.

The first gunman, Bill Walker, threw a couple of piggin' strings at Pete. "Here tie 'em up."

Pete Bell grabbed hold of Jess and dragged him towards a wooden chair. He pushed him down onto it.

"Put ya hands behind ya back," he ordered.

Jess did as he was told, fearful for Jonesy but also concerned for Andy. He tightened his arms, hands and upper body as the rope went around him. Pete didn't notice.

The third man pushed Jonesy down into the chair next to Jess. "Tie him up Pete. Gently now, he's an old man."

Pete looked at Henry. "What?"

"I said be gentle, he's an old man. Kinda reminds me of my pa."

Bill shook his head; he was glad Henry was on his side. You just never knew with him.

Henry and Pete took up places by the window and Bill took a chair and sat in front of Jess and Jonesy.

"Now are you two gonna be quiet or am I gonna have to gag ya".

Jonesy quickly glanced at Jess and said,

"We'll be quiet."

Jess gritted his teeth and nodded.

"I guess you two remember me. It was lucky the Overland needed drivers. Gave me a chance to poke around. That's how I know you two are the only ones here," boasted Bill.

"Yeah," sneered Jess. "Guess your name ain't Smith?"

"You're right about that. I'm Bill Walker. This here is Pete Bell and the other one is Henry Evans."

"Don't mind advertising yourselves, do ya. The Walker Gang, I've heard of ya. Thought there were more than three?"

"There is, they're outside. You'll meet them when the stage gets here. Now you boys be good now. I need to put my feet up. Need to save my energy for later."

Bill took his chair and placed it in front of the fire. He pulled his hat down and rested his boots on the hearth.

Jess looked over at Jonesy who was trying to get into a comfortable position on his chair.

"Hey, Henry. Since this old man reminds you of your pa. How about giving him a cushion? He's got a bad back."

Henry stood up and took a cushion from the couch under the window and placed it behind Jonesy's back.

"And that is as good as it's gonna get," he whispered to Jess on his way back to the window.

Jess sat quietly for a few minutes. When he was sure no one was paying him any attention, he started working on the knots holding his hands and began thinking. After a few minutes he was surprised to feel the rope give way a little. Smiling inside but keeping a straight face he thought.

"Seems that Pete ain't so good at tying knots," Slowly he kept on working at the rope until he felt the knot give way. The rope hung loose against his wrist.

Looking at Jonesy, he raised his eyebrows and slightly tipped his head.

Jonesy was already aware that Jess was loosening his ties. He was amazed when the rope came apart. He knew Jess was nimble-fingered but hadn't expected him to get out so soon. He sat tight wondering what Jess would do.

Chapter 16

While all this was going on Andy had finished sketching Molly and had promised her some berries as a treat if she sat still. She had, and Andy, always true to his word, stood up and went to the shed door.

"Be back in a while," he said.

To Andy, Molly had become a friend. He knew she wasn't a human, but she sure had a lot of human qualities. She could be tender and loving to her baby and gentle to him, Jess and Jonesy. He wondered if she ever got angry. He reckoned that if the need arose, she probably could. Little did Andy know that that need was about to happen.

Pete and Henry were looking outside. Both saw Andy come out of the shed and walk towards the house. On the way he stopped to give his pet animals the once over. After all he didn't want to neglect them.

"Say, Bill," said Pete. "I thought you said there was only these two here."

"Yeah, I did."

"So how come there's a kid heading across the yard."

Bill got up and looked out.

He turned to his prisoners. "Who's the kid?"

Jess stiffened in his chair, but Jonesy said, "He lives here. He's Slim's brother. He won't harm you."

Bill glanced at Jess. "Slim! Who's Slim?"

Jess hesitated.

Bill kicked at his chair, "I said who is Slim?"

"He owns the ranch, but he's away." Jonesy quickly replied.

Bill moved towards the door, "I'll go get the kid. Pete, Henry; you stay here."

Bill was out the door, leaving it open, and across the yard in seconds. Andy had seen him coming and was now standing watching him approach.

"Who are you? Where's Jess and Jonesy?"

"They're inside. Come on kid. I won't hurt you." Bill made a lunge for Andy.

"No! leave me alone," yelled Andy as he deftly jumped out of the way. Bill grabbed for him again and caught his sleeve. He picked him up and threw him over his shoulder.

"Jess! Jess!" he called. Andy then had another idea, "Molly! Molly!"

Inside the shack, Molly heard Andy's voice. She could hear the fear in it. She placed her baby in the corner and covered it with straw. Andy called again.

Molly burst through the door, taking it off its hinges as she went. Her eyes landed on Andy and a man. She did not recognise him, but he was hurting Andy. Charging towards him, she let out a roar, showing her teeth.

Bill saw her coming. He dropped Andy and started to run toward the house. He got no more than a few paces before Molly was upon him. Bill screamed as she picked him up and wrapped her long arms around him. Tightening her grip Bill felt his ribs break and splinter. He coughed up blood and it was all over.

Jess heard Andy call out for him. That was all the motivation he needed. He pulled his arms apart and leapt from the chair pushing Jonesy out of the way as he went. He rammed into Pete and took him down grabbing the arm holding the gun. Bringing his right fist into play he hit him hard across the jaw. Pete's head hit the floor and his eyes rolled. His gun fell out of his hand,

Jess kept moving and slid his hand under Slim's writing desk. His hand closed on his gun and he pulled it out.

Henry had been trying to get a clear shot at Jess as he fought with Pete, but he didn't want to hit his friend. He saw Jess reach his gun and aimed his own gun at Jess when he was stopped in his tracks by a chilling scream. He glanced outside and froze; his jaw dropping.

Jess fired. The bullet hit Henry in the middle of his forehead. As his knees gave way and he fell a look of surprise and fear was frozen on his face.

Pete came to. He saw Henry lying dead on the floor and decided that having lost his gun, it would be better if he left. He scrambled to his feet and headed through the open doorway. When he got outside, he wished he hadn't.

Standing in front of him was a creature, a tall brown hairy creature. In its arm it held Bill's crumpled body. It glared at him and threw Bill away as if he was an old rag doll. Taking a few steps towards him, it grabbed him around the throat and squeezed. The last thing Pete saw as his breath left his body was Molly's face.

"Jess untie me," urged Jonesy, from his chair.

Jess quickly undid the rope. He retrieved his gun belt and put it on. Holding his gun in his right hand he went to the door. He caught sight of movement up above him and raised his gun.

Jonesy wriggled free of the rope, stood up, and ignoring his back, picked up his double-barrelled shotgun, which he always kept behind the door, and checked it was loaded. It was.

He followed Jess to the door and peered out. He later said the sight that met his eyes would stay with him until his dying day. He breathed a sigh of relief when he saw Andy sitting on the ground.

"Andy, boy, get over here, I'll cover you."

"No, the shack is closer." Andy jumped to his feet and dashed towards the broken door. He sprang through it, just as a shot hit the ground behind him. He went to the back and found the baby. Sitting down, he held it on his lap and rocked it back and forth.

Jess saw Andy run for the shed and heard the bullet. Furious that someone should try and shoot a boy, he pinpointed where the shot had come from. Zigzagging across the yard he made it to the barn. He slowly but purposely made his way around its perimeter and using bushes for cover looked up the slope. A hat brim poked over a rock about 10 feet above him.

Bart Mason and Eli Bell had heard Andy shouting and had watched the whole scene play out before their eyes. Both had sat wide eyed and open mouthed when Molly had appeared and put an end to Bill and Pete. Now both, and especially Eli wanted revenge.

"That was my brother. That thing killed him." Eli stood up and raised his rifle. Bart saw the boy make a run for the shed and disappear inside. He heard Eli's rifle fire and saw the dust kick up. He also saw Jonesy raise his shotgun and fire.

"Hold on Eli," yelled Bart, "Sit down or you'll get shot." He grabbed Eli's boot and yanked him down. "You'll get your revenge, no need to make yourself a target."

Jess began to scramble up the slope. If he could just get behind them, he thought. Reaching with his left hand he grabbed at a small rock. It came away in his hand and he felt himself slipping downwards. Dust surrounded him as he hit the bottom. Coughing he stumbled to his feet.

He looked up and saw Eli and Bart stand up and point their guns in his direction.

"Oh Hell," he muttered and hastily looked at the ground for his gun. Before he had a chance to pick it up, he felt something large and heavy hit him knocking him back down. "Molly!"

Shots filled the air, Molly stood in front of Jess taking the bullets. She roared and tumbled to her knees. Jess retrieved his gun; from his knees he fired, once, twice. He watched with a coldness in his eyes as the man fell, his limp lifeless body hitting the slope and coming to a stop with a thud when it hit the ground a few feet away from him. He crawled over to Molly and studied her face.

She gazed back at him, and gently touched him on the arm. Very slowly she toppled over and fell against Jess protecting him with her body. Jess heard a rifle shot and caught sight of the last outlaw as he fell to the ground.

Dragging himself out from under Molly's weight, he looked again into her sad face. He put his arms around her neck, "Oh sweetheart." he softly said. As he watched he saw the light go from her eyes.

He stayed kneeling by her side until Andy, realising that the shooting was over, appeared. He saw Molly on the ground.

"No! No!"

He flung himself down by her side and laid his head on her chest. Jess put his arm around him. He could feel him sobbing. He felt like sobbing himself.

Jonesy rushed over. He was carrying an old blanket. He stared down at the body and felt a lump start to form in his throat. Forcing a swallow, Jonesy held out the blanket.

"Quick, cover her with this. Riders are coming in."

Looking up Jess made out a group of riders as they entered the yard. One tall blond man, wearing a fawn hat and carrying a rifle on a chestnut horse with a crooked blaze. The others in their Indian clothing on a variety of painted horses.

Relief flooded through Jess. Taking a deep breath, he left Andy with Jonesy and walked over to his best friend. Slim was off Alamo and by Jess's shoulder in a second.

"You okay?" he asked.

"Yeah, I am now. Was that you that fired that last shot? Cause I think you might have saved my life."

"It was, but I didn't save your life Jess. She did." Slim pointed towards where Molly lay. "We saw what she did. Sorry, we didn't get here sooner. You'd better tell me what's gone on and I need to introduce Red Wing and his friends to you."

Red Wing, Grey Wolf and Stands Tall left their ponies with Talks with Horses and made their way to where Molly lay. Jonesy had persuaded Andy to get up and was standing with his arm protectively around his waist.

Red Wing crouched down and lifted the corner of the blanket.

"There is a young one?" he asked. Andy nodded and pointed in the direction of the old shed."

"I'll show you."

But before they could move another group of riders galloped into the yard. Mort and his posse had been a mile or two away when they heard the shooting and had not spared their horses to get there. He was relieved when he saw Slim. He took in the group of Indians standing next to Jonesy, and the four dead bodies lying around.

"The Walker Gang I presume," he said as he dismounted and loosened his saddle.

"Yep, there's another in the house," said Jess.

Mort nodded at the group of Cheyenne, "Friends of yours?"

"They are Mort. If you hang around, I'll introduce them to you." said Slim.

"Maybe tomorrow Slim. How long are they staying?"

"A day or two. Jess and I want to show them around the ranch."

Mort nodded; he had a dull ache in his head. Turning to his posse, he called Chris over. "Take someone and see if you can round up their horses. They have to be around here somewhere."

Talks with Horses spoke, "Try that little stand of birch at the top of the hill. I saw horses in there when we came past."

"Thank you, son." Mort smiled at the young Cheyenne. "I should try there first," he said to Chris.

In no time at all, Chris and his companion were back hauling five horses behind. Tying them to the fence, he confirmed where they had been, "They were right where he said."

Mort addressed his men. "Right, better get these horses watered and then we get these bodies wrapped up and loaded onto their mounts. I'll ride over tomorrow Slim. Get statements from everyone involved."

Mort tightened his cinch and stepped up into the saddle. Taking a last look, he noticed a blanket covering something over by the corral.

"Is that anything I should know about?" he asked.

"No Mort," declared Jonesy. "Just one of the old milk cows that got in the way of a bullet. We'll deal with it later."

Mort gave a small smile. "When I've added up the reward for this lot, I think you'll be able to replace her. I'll see you boy's tomorrow."

Mort led the riders out of the yard and set a trail for Laramie. His head had started to throb. He hoped he could sneak back into town without the Doc seeing him. He could hear his voice 'What did I say about riding?' but, he thought, when you're the law you don't always get a choice. He decided Chris could have his first lesson in paperwork when they got back, and he would just sit comfortably in his chair.

Once they were out of sight, Red Wing and his companions asked Andy to take them to the young one. Andy led them to the shed but didn't go in. He was upset about Molly and didn't want the baby to pick up his sadness.

Coming in from the other direction, the stage turned into the road leading to the Sherman Ranch.

It pulled into the yard with its extra shotgun riding inside as well as Frankie and Charlie sitting in their usual places.

"Was that Mort leading those riders out?" asked Frankie. "What's been going on?"

"You and Charlie come inside; the other guard as well if he wants. And bring that money with you. I gotta fill Slim in and I don't want to tell it twice," said Jess suddenly feeling a bit worn out and discovering he had a few bruised ribs.

"What money?" asked Slim.

Jess paused before he followed the others in. He glanced over to where Molly lay. Bruised ribs are better than the alternative, he thought. Thanks Molly.

Andy held back to speak to him."

"You won't mention Molly, will you?"

Jess shook his head. "No Andy, I won't"

Chapter 17

Later that afternoon, Jess and Slim, and the party of Cheyenne trudged through the meadow at the front of the ranch house. They all carried shovels. Andy had gone up earlier and found a nice spot for Molly to lie.

They all set to work and in hardly anytime at all had the burial site ready. Jonesy and Andy walked up to join them. They all collected rocks to act as a grave marker.

The Cheyenne went back down to collect Molly and to show her body to her baby. They knew that was the only way for it to understand she would not be coming back. One of them would stay with it while the others carried her up to the grave.

They made slow progress.

"Slim," asked Andy, "Do you think it would be alright if I carved her a cross?"

"Don't see why not, after all she was one of God's creatures."

"What do you think Jess?" asked Andy.

"I think that'd be mighty fine Andy. Don't you Jonesy?"

"Sure would. I don't think I'll ever forget Molly," sniffed Jonesy.

"None of us will Jonesy," remarked Slim. "After all she saved Jess."

Slim put his hand on Jess's shoulder, "And for that I will always be thankful."

"And me," added Andy. He went and stood on the other side of Jess and put his arm around his waist.

Jess put his head down and let his hat cover his eyes. Slightly embarrassed by the show of affection, he was finding it difficult to hold back tears.

The sun's rays were disappearing over the horizon when they made their way down to the house.

"Slim, would you mind if we slept in the shack and took turns to care for the young one. We need to make plans soon to get it home."

"Of course, Red Wing. Is there anything you need?"

"If you have any cow's milk and fresh eggs, we will try to get it to take that for nourishment."

"Andy'll bring you some out."

Out of corner of his eye, he saw Jess stop a yawn. "Come on pard. Think an early night is waiting for us all."

"You're right Slim, but not before I've had me a cup of coffee with a little extra in it."

Jess grinned at Jonesy. "For medicinal purposes only Jonesy."

"Sounds good Jess. I think I'll join ya," responded Jonesy.

Slim looked on in surprise. "Well in that case, don't leave me out."

Chapter 18

The next day dawned with a promise of a beautiful day, although none of the inhabitants of the Sherman Ranch noticed.

Slim yawned as he stood in the open doorway looking out. He hadn't got much sleep the night before even though he'd been exhausted. Andy and Jonesy were already up and in the kitchen; both looking as if they hadn't slept much either. Jess breezed out of the bedroom.

"Morning all," he paused when he saw three tired faces looking back at him "What's the matter, didn't ya sleep?"

Slim rubbed his hands through his hair, "No! Did you?" he snapped.

Jess took a step back, "Woah… strangely enough I did. Must have had something to do with that medicinal whiskey I had."

Slim let out a sigh and allowed a small grin to form. You could never tell with Jess, he thought, sometimes he did things totally different to what you would expect. He could not remember the last time Jess woke up cheerful. He usually crawled out of bed and did not come to life until after a couple of cups of coffee.

"It didn't work for me and Jonesy," he replied.

"Or me!" piped up Andy, bringing in plates of eggs and bacon.

"You didn't have any." retorted Slim, "Did ya?"

"No…but I was just saying."

Slim shook his head and sat down at the table. He felt his world had gone slightly mad.

Jonesy put a plate overflowing with food in front of him, "Get that down ya, you'll feel better." He placed a cup of coffee next to it.

"Hey, what about me?" queried Jess.

"You can serve yourself since you've woken up as chirpy as a sparrow."

Out the corner of his eye, Jess caught sight of Andy stuffing bacon into his mouth,

"Chirp, chirp," he said.

Andy spluttered and started to laugh. He grabbed his napkin to catch any escaping food.

Jonesy rolled his eyes, and poured Jess a cup of coffee, "Here drink this, before I forget how old you are and take my belt to ya!"

When breakfast was over, Slim, Jess and Andy went out to the shed where the Cheyenne were staying. Jess noticed all their horses were safely corralled in the paddock.

"Nice lot of horses," he commented.

"Yeah, Talks to Horses took real good care of Alamo at the camp,"

"Do you have any idea what they want to do about the young un?" asked Jess.

"No, but I hope they've got some ideas. It was all I could think about last night," replied Slim.

"Whatever, they want to do I reckon we'll go along with it," Jess looked up towards Molly's grave. "You know just because I woke up cheerful don't mean I'm not sorry she's up there. I hope Andy understands that."

"Course he does. He knows life must go on. You made him laugh, didn't ya?"

Jess broke into a smile. "Yeah, I sure did."

Slim opened the shack door and in they went. The Cheyenne were sitting together towards the back. They had uncovered the windows which had let some light in. The baby sat with Red Wing; its arms wrapped around his waist.

Slim and Jess sat down. Jess tickled the baby on the chin. The baby crawled over and climbed onto his lap.

"He obviously likes you," acknowledged Slim.

"He is a she, Slim," said Red Wing.

Slim raised his eyebrows. "That doesn't surprise me. All the girls like Jess, ain't that right Pard?"

Jess frowned at him but didn't say anything.

The door opened throwing more light into the dusky shack.

"Can I come in?" asked Andy.

Slim turned and beckoned him over. "Sure."

Andy tiptoed in and sat next to Jess. He nodded to the Cheyenne. He felt a bit odd having them there but if Slim and Jess were ok with it then so was he.

"How is he. Did he eat?"

"He's a she Andy," confirmed his brother.

"Oh," a smile crept onto his face. "Guess that's why she's cuddling up to Jess then."

"Don't you start. Anyway," said Jess changing the subject, "What are we going to do about her?"

"We need to take her back to where her people are. My people know of a place in the Laramie Mountains where they have always been." Red Wing explained.

"Wow, as close as that. Why do we never see them?" asked Andy.

"They are very shy and keep to themselves. Humans have made them like that. Andy, we know mountain lions and bears inhabit the mountains, but we don't often see them, unless one comes down for a reason. We don't know how the mother got to be here, but it is our duty to return this one to its tribe."

"We agree. So, when do we start…tomorrow morning? That'll give us time to get some supplies together. Jess, if you ride over and talk to Ben, tell him Jonesy will need help with the stage and to get here for the morning run. Best let him know he'd better stay here; Jonesy will like the company."

Andy waited until Slim had finished. "Can I come with you…please Slim."

Slim saw the hopeful look on his face. "Yeah, you can…after all you're as much a part of this as us. But you do what Jess and I tell you, okay?"

"Sure Slim, I won't let you down." He looked over at Jess, who winked back, "Both of you…I won't let both of you down."

"Is this alright with you Red Wing. We can travel on the back trails…fortunately the Sherman land goes almost to the foothills, and then it's open range. We can take a buckboard so far and then go on horseback."

"It is a good plan Slim. We will leave just before dawn."

The door opened again and Jonesy crept in. He was carrying a bowl. "I made this porridge for the little one. How is he?"

Andy took the bowl, "He's a She, Jonesy."

"Well, I'll be. Should have known, by the way she's clinging to Jess."

"Dadgum it." Jess hoisted the baby off his lap and plonked her on Andy. "Here you feed her."

Standing up he brushed the loose hairs off his clothes. "I've got chores to do in the barn. At least everything is male in there."

Storming out the door, he could hear laughter behind him. "He's forgotten the milk cows," laughed Andy. "They like him too."

Chapter 19

After finishing his chores Jess saddled up Traveler and headed out to see Ben who lived about thirty minutes away on the Laramie Road.

Ben was only too pleased to spend time at the Sherman Ranch. He and Jonesy would play the odd game of poker and reminisce over past times; it also got him away from the chores his wife kept finding him. He didn't mind chores as a rule, but not when it involved hanging out washing, putting up curtains and weeding the vegetable garden.

Riding back to the ranch, Jess caught up with Mort who was on his way to get their statements. Mort was feeling better, and he reckoned a nice quiet ride over to Slim's was what he needed. He was pleased when Jess pulled Traveler up to a gentle walk beside him.

After exchanging pleasantries, Mort mentioned how when they had got the Walker gang back to town and deposited them all at the undertakers, he had sent his deputy to search the bodies. He'd come back a little puzzled. Apparently two of the men had an awful lot of bones broken and were badly bruised. In fact, Mort had sent Doc Morris to check them out and he'd confirmed it.

"Now I know you're pretty good with your fists Jess, but I don't think even you could have inflicted all that damage, so I'd like to know what went on."

Jess thought, "I'm not sure it's for me to tell you Mort. Wait until we get home and ask Slim."

Mort knew better than to press Jess for more information and they passed the rest of the time in small talk. Jess wondering what Slim was going to say to Mort.

Loping into the yard, Jess could see that everyone had been busy; the wagon was already packed with provisions, blankets and any other items Slim had thought they might need. Jonesy appeared from the house carrying two baskets to add to the eatables.

"Here," he said to Slim. "A couple of apple pies and some flapjacks, and there's a big jar of oatmeal, you just gotta heat it up. Do you think you got enough food?"

"Sure, Jonesy, we could feed an army with this lot."

"There are seven of you and two of them are Jess and Andy, you know how they both eat us out of house and home. I know Andy is a growing boy but I ain't sure what Jess's excuse is," chuckled Jonesy.

Jess rode up and dismounted. "You talking about me?"

"Nothing that you couldn't hear," smiled Jonesy as he walked back to the house.

"Jess, you spoken to Ben?" asked Slim expectantly.

"Yep, he'll be here early tomorrow morning. Think he's looking forward to it, gets him away from the wife he says."

"Gives her a break too, I shouldn't wonder. You know what I like about Ben is that he is a man of few words."

"Yeah, his wife makes up for that…never stops talking…so I hear."

"That's what I meant," smiled Slim. "She can give her voice a rest. Hi Mort, you here for those statements?"

"Here Mort let me take your horse, I'll get him some water and feed."

"Thanks Jess." Mort handed over the reins and turned to Slim nodding his head at him, "And I have a couple of questions."

"Okay, let's go in the house. Jonesy's got coffee on."

Once settled at the table with a freshly brewed coffee and freshly baked cookies Mort started.

"I was saying to Jess that two of them outlaws were in a real bad shape, nearly every bone broken. Jess wasn't very forthcoming and said I should ask you, so I'm asking?"

Slim sipped at his drink and looked over at Jonesy. What to say he thought, the truth…after all this was Mort, a trusted friend but even though he had witnessed the incident, he was having problems believing what he'd seen. Would Mort believe him? Damn it, he thought as he started to tell Mort exactly what had happened.

He started at the beginning, when he and Jess had first seen the creature and didn't stop until he and the Cheyenne had ridden in yesterday. He'd seen Molly shake the outlaws and seen her protect Jess.

Mort blinked, blew out a breath and gulped his now cold coffee.

He wasn't sure what to say, Slim wasn't prone to flights of fancy but…

"So that dead milk cow was in fact the dead creature. What did you do with her?"

"Buried her up on the hill. Surely you don't want us to dig her up!" asked a slightly alarmed Slim.

"No, no of course not. I just wondered."

"Good, 'cause I don't think Andy would allow it or Jess come to that not to mention the Cheyenne. They kinda revere them."

Slim pushed back his chair and stood up. "Come on, I can prove all this."

Together they walked to the shed. "The young un's in here." Slim moved to the side and let Mort enter.

Once his eyes became accustomed to the darkness, he could make out the four Cheyenne, Andy and Jess. And sitting in the middle of them, leaning up against Andy's legs was…. well he wasn't sure what it was… at first glance it looked like pictures he'd seen in a book once, a gorilla or chimpanzee…but this was different, the coat was shaggy, and a deep brown, and the face almost human with eyes that were already wise.

He jumped as a hand touched his shoulder, "Get closer Mort, she won't hurt you," smiled Slim.

Mort walked a couple of paces nearer and squatted down, "I've heard rumours over the years, but I never really thought they were out there." Reaching out he let his hand gently touch the soft fur. He smiled broadly.

"Yeah, they seem to have that effect on ya," grinned Jess. "You should have seen the mother Mort, she was something. You could talk to her, don't suppose she understood but she gave a good impression of it. Reckon, we're all gonna miss Molly."

"Molly?"

"Andy named her."

"What about this one, does she have a name?"

"We have called her "Little Black Eyes," replied Red Wing, "And early tomorrow we will take her home."

Slim filled Mort in on the plans and where they were going.

"I'd like to come with you if that's okay with everyone. I've got a hankering to see the little one back home. I'll leave Chris in charge, he's been itching to have some responsibility, and can be back here tonight."

"It's okay with me Mort," Slim looked at the others who all nodded.

Taking a last look at Little Black Eyes, Mort left the shed and untied his horse from the rail where Jess had left it. Raising his hand in farewell he headed towards Laramie. "Damn he said to himself, "I forgot to get those statements!"

Chapter 20

The next day, they were all ready to leave a couple of hours before dawn. Jonesy had insisted on them taking more food, after all there were eight of them now instead of seven. He watched the little procession head up the hill: the wagon driven by Slim; Andy in the back sitting with Little Black Eyes; Jess and Mort riding alongside, leading Alamo and Cyclone, and the four Cheyenne riding just behind.

Saying a prayer for their safety he went indoors, he wasn't sure he liked Andy going, but at least he was with his brother and Jess. It ain't worth trying to get more sleep, he thought, I'll get a start on making bread and an apple pie. He didn't have his family to feed but the stage would bring hungry passengers and Ben was partial to a bit of pie.

They made good time. The ground was nice and dry with very few ruts. Keeping away from the roads and going across country helped.

"How far are we going Slim?" asked Andy.

Slim thought for a moment, "The Laramie Mountains are about 40 miles from home. They range for, say 125 miles. If the weather holds and it don't get too hot, I reckon we'll be in the foothills by this evening, or if not tomorrow morning. We'll stop to eat in about an hour and give the horses a rest."

Andy shifted his position; it was hard sitting on the wagon floor especially with a very heavy baby leaning against you. "That'd be great."

Jess noticed Andy shifting about, "Here Andy, I'll swap with you. Slim, stop the wagon will ya."

Andy climbed onto Cyclone and took Travelers reins from Jess who settled himself into the wagon. Little Black Eyes immediately clambered onto his lap and settled down. Andy started to grin, and then seeing Jess glaring at him, he thought better of it.

Noticing the look Jess gave Andy, Mort asked Slim,

"What was that about?"

"That…it's a sort of joke about Jess and females; we gave him quite a teasing about it earlier."

"Best I leave it alone then," said Mort wisely.

"Yep." agreed Slim.

Finding a cool spot with a small stream and shade from a few trees, they rested the animals and dived into the food lovingly provided by Jonesy. The Cheyenne took turns to entertain Little Black Eyes while the others stretched out on the ground, hats pulled down over their eyes and took a quick nap.

Andy seeing Talks with Horses sitting on his own went over to join him.

Smiling at him, he sat down and asked if it was alright to join him.

"That is a nice colt you have," Talks with Horses commented. "He is very handsome. I would like a horse like that one day."

"If I can talk Slim out of having him gelded, I would like to breed from him…maybe you could have one of his offspring."

"Why would your brother want to do that?"

"Because Cyclone can be difficult; he causes more work, breaks down fences; he likes to run and chase the cattle, especially the milk cows, but one day he's going to be the best cattle horse you can get, even better than Traveler. I've already started to teach him but Slim don't, I mean doesn't know…it's gonna be a surprise."

"Which one is Traveler?"

"Jess's horse. He has to be one of the smartest horses I know."

"Maybe Traveler can teach Cyclone?"

"I've thought of that. Just got to get Jess on side. He'll make Slim see sense."

"Older brothers can be difficult…Red Wing sometimes forgets he is my brother not my father."

"Me too…" replied Andy delighted he had found someone with the same problems he had. "I thought I was the only one to have that predicament. Don't get me wrong I love Slim but sometimes..."

Talks with Horses smiled, "So Andy… do you have your mind set on a girl."

Andy shook his head, "No, not yet. Do you?"

"There is one that I like, but I think I have to wait until we are older. She is very pretty."

Listening closely, Andy wondered if he might pick up some tips.

Jess sat up, "Look at those two over there. They seem to be getting on ok. Wonder what they are talking about?"

Slim peered out from under his hat. "I don't know…what do boys their age talk about?"

Jess gave Slim an incredulous look, "You're joshing me ain't ya. What did you talk about when you were his age?"

"Oh, riding, ranching, pets, things like that."

"Not girls?"

"Well yeah, I suppose so, but Andy's too young."

"Think you'd better open your eyes Pard." Jess got to his feet. "Come on we'd better move if we wanna get to them foothills,"

That evening, just as the first stars were appearing, they arrived at a flat bit of ground perfect for a camp. A gentle spring ran down from the mountain and formed a small pond. A stand of trees surrounded by shrubs stood a little distance away.

The campfire was soon burning; food and coffee were being heated. Andy gently warmed up some oat bran for Little Black Eyes. After supper, they sat around the fire making plans for the next day.

They would leave the wagon under cover of the trees and use the horse to carry their packs. He was a placid horse, quite used to being used as a packhorse or pulling a wagon. Even the presence of the baby didn't seem to bother him.

They would break camp before dawn and head for higher ground; each rider taking it in turns to carry Little Black Eyes on their horse. Jess was a bit sceptical how Traveler or Cyclone would react. Alamo seemed quite accepting and Mort's horse was an unknown quantity. The Cheyenne ponies didn't seem bothered at all and would take the lead with their riders.

Chapter 21

By mid-morning they were riding along a trail that was leading them up at a not too steep incline. Grey Wolf carried the baby and stopped to hand her over to Stands Tall. For her part Little Black Eyes was calm and seemed to understand where they were going but then as Jess recalled she had been quiet all along. Maybe some instinct was working there, he thought. He'd never ridden this way before and was enjoying the different scenery when suddenly a noise stopped Traveler in his tracks throwing him forward. Regaining his balance, he looked behind him, Slim, Andy and Mort had also stopped or rather their horses had. Each one was standing with ears pricked and eyes searching. Their nostrils flared as if all of them wanted to bolt at the same time. Patting Traveler on the neck, he was aware that he was the same.

"What was that?" called out Slim, he tried to push Alamo further towards Jess and Traveler, but he was not having it.

Again, a sound was heard; a loud knocking as if someone were banging a large piece of wood against another. This time it went on for longer and it seemed that others were joining in. All the horses moved restlessly, whickering nervously, even the native ponies. The last time Jess remembered Traveler behaving something like this was when they had been near the line shack when he'd first seen Molly, or once when a mountain lion had run out in front of them, but that sure as hell weren't no mountain lion making that noise, he thought. He let his right hand move towards his gun.

Slim dismounted, told Andy to stay with Mort and all but dragged Alamo until he was next to Jess. They both looked around and as quickly as it had started the knocking stopped.

Red Wing rode back to them from where he had been at the front. He smiled at the two men.

"That is them, they are welcoming us. They have been watching and see us with the child."

Mort and Andy rode up, "Goddammit," said Mort, "If that's a welcome, I'd hate to hear a warning."

Jess couldn't help but smile, you didn't hear Mort cuss very often which showed just how rattled he was.

"What will we do now?" asked Slim.

"We go on," replied Red Wing, "There is a clearing a short ride away. We will stop there, and camp and then wait for them to show."

Once in the clearing, everyone busied themselves with setting camp.

Slim and Jess gathered sticks and stones to make a circle for a fire.

"You okay Jess?" asked a slightly concerned Slim. He could see that his pard was a bit jumpy and that his hand kept on slipping to his gun.

"Yeah, I reckon. It's just I can't get it outta my mind that those…hell, I don't even know what to call 'em, could suddenly appear. I hate being crept up on."

"It'll be fine; Red Wing told me they are peaceful and calm unless threatened," soothed Slim.

"Yeah, just be glad when we are on our way home, my guts telling me somethings not right", he looked out over the valley below.

Presently the camp was set, and everyone settled down, as best they could. There was a full moon and it cast a bright light over them, almost as clear as day.

Slim, Jess, Mort and Andy sat together with the Cheyenne and Little Black Eyes and waited.

Presently, Jess, who had hearing that could pick out a mouse hiding in the undergrowth, looked up. He came to attention, lightly punched Slim on this arm, and nodded towards a gap in the trees. Mort and Andy sat up too.

Standing nearby were four adult creatures. Mort gasped when he saw them, he hadn't reckoned on their height and size, after only seeing the baby.

"Gosh," whispered Andy, "They're bigger than Molly." He went to stand up, but Slim pulled him down.

"Best we let the Cheyenne deal with this," he murmured.

"Too right Slim," agreed Jess.

Three of the Cheyenne slowly made their way to meet them, uttering soft guttural sounds of what, Slim assumed, was a greeting. Soon these sounds were reciprocated, and the creatures walked closer to the fire, and sat down.

Out the corner of his eye, Jess caught a movement further into the woods and could just make out two more of the creatures. He nudged Slim in the arm again,

"Huh, what?" Slim rubbed his arm he wouldn't be surprised to find a bruise or two later. He followed where Jess was looking.

"Probably back up, they don't know we're not going to attack them."

"It makes sense," replied Jess, "but I hope there ain't many more around."

Red Wing came to them, "They want to take the baby now. Do you wish to say goodbye?"

"Sure do," responded Andy. He walked over and gently put his arm around her, "You grow up big and strong now."

Slim, Mort and Jess followed.

Slim laid his hand on her head and smiled, gently rubbing her ears. Mort carefully touched her arm, and patted her,

"You certainly showed me there's more in this world than I know."

Finally, Jess went up to her, crouching down, he looked her in the eyes.

"Make your mamma proud, little girl."

Almost black eyes looked back into his blue eyes; making soft cooing noises she threw a long arm around him and held on. Jess hugged her back as best he could, and then stood up.

Red Wing picked her up and carried her to her people, who gently took her. Then the tallest creature on two legs Jess had ever seen, looked over at the humans and smiled. He nodded at them all, turned and disappeared into the forest with the others following behind.

"Did you see that" said Mort, "He was saying thanks. I shall never forget that as long as I live." He sat down and helped himself to coffee, a big smile on his face.

The camp turned in for the rest of the night, Andy settled down between his brother and Jess.

"Do you think we'll ever see them again?"

"Who knows Andy," replied Jess. "But we know they're there now."

"What do you think Slim?" asked Andy.

"Well, like Jess said, who knows? Mind you the way she took a fancy to Jess, she may come calling," teased Slim.

Jess sent Slim a glare that would have alarmed most folks, but Slim just smiled. "Come on let's get some rest, we've got a fair way to travel to get home. Wonder how Jonesy and Ben are getting on."

"I was just wondering a similar thing about my deputy Chris," commented Mort, who had set his bedroll just behind them. "Guess I'll find out in a couple of days."

Chapter 22

Chris Brant had been deputy for Mort for a couple of months, he was getting used to the job but felt better when the Sheriff was around. Mort going off and leaving him in charge had been a shock but one that he was getting used to. Laramie had been fairly quiet; a couple of drunks cooling off in the cells were all he had to deal with. He had tidied the office, Mort kept a tight ship in that respect, and he didn't want to let him down.

"You gotta keep your papers in order son, otherwise you can't find anything when you need it," he could hear Mort saying.

He was sitting at the desk with a pile of wanted posters; the old ones in one pile and a batch of new posters in another. He carefully read them one by one and was putting them into one pile, alphabetically of course.

He picked up the coffee mug and finished the last cold mouthful. Pulling a face, he walked to the stove and filled it with piping hot coffee. Glancing out of the window on his way back to the desk he noticed a blue roan trot by. He watched as the rider guided it over to the livery and went in. Forgetting the posters, he continued to watch. Shortly a man appeared. Not very tall, but stocky. When he raised his hat to wipe his forehead, he had straw coloured longish hair…maybe a trip to the barbers is needed thought Chris. He watched as the man began to stroll up the street. He wore a six gun in a tied down holster and carried a rifle. Going outside Chris watched him walk into the hotel. Chris went back inside; he hadn't been in the job long enough to develop a sixth sense about people, but something was telling him that this man could be trouble. He checked his gun, and then went back to the desk. He flicked through the old posters.

"Dammit," he exclaimed. "Here he is."

The poster was for an Amos Walker, the description was near perfect.

"Walker, where have I heard that name?" It came to him in a flash; The Walker Gang, Bill Walker and his cronies who'd met their fate at the Sherman Ranch.

Chris sat back in the chair and thought. The poster was pretty old, he'd have to check if it were still valid. He didn't want to go in heavy handed. Maybe he'd heard about his brother and come to pay his respects. Chris wasn't very hopeful about that…this Amos sounded and looked threatening. He checked the time; the telegraph office was closed until 2.00. The clerk had suddenly started to take a lunch break. Something Mort had not been pleased about.

Chris stood up, checked his gun again, put his hat on and went outside. Checking the road each way, he headed for the hotel. Jimmy the clerk could be mighty helpful at times, and he owed Chris one or two favours.

Jimmy nodded at Chris when he came in. No-one else was in sight.

"What can I do for you Chris, I mean deputy." asked Jimmy.

"Chris is fine Jimmy. That stranger that came in a while ago, what did he want?"

"A room, and a bath. I sent him down to Mikey's. He took a room, just for the night."

Chris glanced at the register, "Mmm, writing's terrible." He squinted; he could just make out A. Walker.

If he's using his real name, maybe he's here to pay his respects or maybe he's just not very bright, thought Chris.

"Thanks Jimmy."

Turning he strode out to the street and headed to Mikey's. Halfway there he saw Walker come out, cross the street and head to the saloon. Chris turned to face the shop window. Ladies Lingerie the sign proclaimed. Chris quickly turned back to face the street, "Typical," he thought out loud and hoped no one had seen him.

Mikey ran the public baths, a cheery, round faced man who spent his life heating water. He offered a bath and shave for 40c including soap and towel. He had a happy wife and ten happy children. People wondered what his secret was.

"Hi Mikey. That stranger just in here. Did he say anything?"

"No not much, said he'd had a bereavement in the family, and he was here to see 'em buried. Also wanted to know where the saloon was. He had a fair bit of cash on him; when he paid me, he brought out a wad of it. He gave me a good tip too."

Mikey beamed at Chris, "Any problem?"

"Not sure Mikey, but I aim to find out." Chris headed on down to the telegraph office. The clerk was just back from lunch and was turning the sign to open.

"Hi Norman. Need to send a telegram. I'm just checking on a wanted poster, see if it's still valid so charge it to the sheriff's account."

He'd already written the telegram out before he'd left the office; slapping it down on the clerk's desk he resolved to wait for the reply.

Norman sat down and started to tap out the message.

"That's funny. It's dead. The line must be down somewhere. It was fine this morning. I'll have to send someone out to look. Sorry Chris, hope it wasn't too important."

Chris frowned as he left. He didn't believe in coincidences, the weather had been ok, and now he wanted to check out Amos Walker he couldn't. He went back to the office to think.

In the saloon, Amos was making himself popular. Buying everyone drinks and getting merry, although he was not…barflies around him were, but not him. One thing he could do was hold his drink, and one thing he knew, once everyone around you had been drinking for a while, no one noticed that you weren't drinking. He wanted information and this was where he could get it.

The information he wanted was simple, how had his brother died and who had done it. He had no concern for the rest of the gang, but Bill had been his younger brother and revenge was planned.

Soon he had what he wanted. The deed had happened at the Sherman Ranch, a relay station about 12 miles outside town. No-one knew who had done the killing but all said it was probably either Slim Sherman or Jess Harper. Course, the outlaws were trying to rob the stage so what could they expect, was the general consensus.

Amos went back to his hotel room and lay on the bed, careful to take his boots off. He didn't want any unnecessary trouble, and holes in sheets usually caused a bit. He smiled, tomorrow he would head out to the Sherman place. He would leave early.

Chris slept at the jail that night. First thing in the morning, he went to the telegraph office. Nope, hadn't been fixed. Hopefully, this afternoon Norman told him.

Next, he went to the hotel. Amos Walker had left just after dawn.

"Nice guy," said Jimmy. "Paid for his room, and left a big tip, and no holes in the sheets."

Chris felt relieved but he wondered where Amos Walker had gone.

Leaving the hotel, he visited the saloon.

Drawing information from the barkeep, he found that Amos bought drinks for all, and appeared quite friendly. But there was something about him; he did not drink much himself. Charlie had been a barkeep for a long-time and reckoned he could spot a bad'un a mile off.

"He was asking about the Walker gang and where they died and who shot them. He got his information alright, although no one knew for certain who had killed them. I thought about what was said last night and was gonna come and see you. I wouldn't like to see Slim and Jess in trouble."

"Leave it with me Charlie, I'll get a posse together, and head out to the Sherman ranch to take a look."

Chapter 23

At the ranch, Jonesy and Ben had finished breakfast.

"Mighty fine spread you put on," complimented Ben.

"Well, you know how it is; Slim, Jess and Andy wouldn't expect anything less," smiled Jonesy. It always pleased him when his cooking was well received.

"When they due back?" asked Ben.

"Next couple of days, I expect, maybe a day longer."

Putting the last dishes away, Jonesy's ears pricked up. He might be getting on in years and have a bad back but there was nothing wrong with his hearing.

"There's a horse coming in," He ambled over to the window and looked out. "Yep, don't recognise the horse or the rider."

He picked up the shotgun, and opened the door.

"You stay here Ben just in case there's trouble. There's another gun in that cupboard if you want one."

Ben liberated the gun and stood by the window, back enough to not be seen, but so he could see.

The rider stopped, a smile on his face.

"Howdy, old man. Do ya think I could water my horse?"

Jonesy pointed, "Over there."

Amos rode his horse to the trough and left it drinking. He made his way back to Jonesy. He had taken note of the shotgun the old fella was holding, but it didn't bother him. No old man had ever stopped him before.

Jonesy, for his part, noticed the smile was fake. He saw the tied down gun holster and the easy way the stranger's hand hovered above it. It reminded him of Jess, though Jess never smiled like that.

"This the Sherman Ranch?" he asked.

Jonesy felt disinclined to answer, but what good would that do, he thought. A big sign hung over the barn door, and the man would only have to ask around to find out it was.

"Yep." he said.

"Mr. Sherman or Mr. Harper around?" he queried.

"Nope."

"You're a man of few words," Amos replied, "When will they be back?"

"Not sure, a few days."

"They didn't tell you?" pushed Amos.

"They don't tell me everything," answered Jonesy.

Amos looked around the small yard. It was well looked after. He saw his horse had wandered off to speak to the horses in the corral.

"You here on your own," his smile had left his face now.

"Nope, there's someone inside pointing a gun at you. Also, I can hear the stage coming; there'll be a shotgun on that too."

Amos listened; he could hear the rattle of the stage and the sound of the horses. He sighed to himself. He didn't want any trouble before he'd taken down his brother's killers. Then just maybe he'd come back for the old man.

He sprung onto his horse and swiftly rode up the hill. He followed the road until he saw tracks leading away across the grass. He stopped to study them. He wasn't the best at tracking but even he could see wagon tracks, and one, two maybe three shod horses and what looked like a couple of unshod horses.

He rubbed his chin, "I wonder."

And for the want of anything better to do he followed the trail.

Jonesy and Ben watched Amos ride off. Neither liked the look of him.

"Wonder what he wants with Slim and Jess?" voiced Ben.

"I don't know but you can bet it ain't good. I wish Mort were here," worried Jonesy. "I'll send a message in with Mose asking for Chris to ride out."

As if on cue, the stage driven by Mose appeared. Stopping the coach within a few feet of Jonesy, he climbed down and stretched his back.

"No passengers this morning, and no post either." He looked around, "The Boys not back yet?"

"A couple of days more I 'spect. Did ya happen to see a stranger riding a blue roan on ya way in?" asked Jonesy.

"Nope, but I reckon I caught a glimpse of someone in the distance heading north, might have been him. Why?"

"Come on in Mose, and I'll explain. Want ya to take a message to that young deputy. Ben'll finish up here."

Jonesy glanced at Ben who nodded in agreement.

Half an hour later, Mose was on his way to Laramie. Jonesy's message safely in his head and a written note in his pocket. Jonesy wasn't taking any chances. Mose hoped no trouble was heading towards Slim and Jess. He would hate anything to happen to either of them…the Sherman ranch was his favourite stop-off point, and he was prepared to admit, not just for Jonesy's homemade apple pie, he was also fond of the two ranchers.

As soon as he hit Laramie and brought the horses to a safe stop, he jumped down and trotted to the jailhouse. He could see a group of men and horses gathering outside. Going inside he found Chris writing a letter to Mort telling him what was going on.

Mose handed him the note and told him what Jonesy had said.

Chris read the note carefully and put it with his letter to Mort.

"It's okay Mose. Just gathering a posse and then we'll be after him."

"Who is it you're after?" asked Mose, he liked to get all the details he could.

"Amos Walker. Brother of Bill Walker. I think he's got payback on his mind."

"Well, just you make sure you get him," Mose said anxiously.

"We will. First place we'll go to is the Sherman ranch, and pick up his trail."

Chapter 24

They left the clearing in the forest when the sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon.

Andy felt sad about leaving Little Black Eyes. He secretly held on to a hope that he would see her again one day but, in his heart, he knew it was best that they were left alone. He rode Cyclone next to Slim. No one was saying much.

Cyclone living up to his reputation took a bite out of Alamo who squealed and bit back.

"When we get home, we're gonna have to do something about him," announced Slim.

"Do we have to Slim?" pleaded Andy. "Talks to Horses would like one of his offspring."

"You are sure he knows what he would be getting into if it took after its sire."

Slim looked at Andy's pleading face, "I'll think about it, maybe Jess could knock some sense into that blockhead."

Andy pulled up and went to ride alongside Jess and Traveler.

"Jess do ya think you could teach Cyclone some manners. I've been working on him myself, but I think he might need a firmer hand."

Cyclone tried to take a bite at Traveler, who being the experienced horse he was, avoided it. He then nipped Cyclone on his ear, causing him to squeal. Feeling cowed by the older horse, he dropped his head and carried on walking.

Jess patted his horse. Frowning at Andy he asked. "Have I upset you?"

Words came pouring out of Andy, "No, but you're so good at teaching them, and he probably won't throw you, well not much anyway, and I'll be there to help and," looking Jess directly in the eyes, he added, "Slim said if you do, he'll think about not gelding him."

"He did, did he? Tell you what Andy, when we get home, I'll have a look at him."

"He'll be as good as Traveler one day, you wait and see."

"Don't get too carried away Andy, I ain't a miracle maker," grinned Jess.

Jess gently nudged Traveler forward and caught up with Slim.

"Thanks, Pard," he said sarcastically.

"What for?"

"Telling Andy I'd teach that idiot horse of his some manners."

"Oh that. Well, when we're back home, I wouldn't want you to get bored." insisted Slim.

Stopping for a quick lunch, they made steady progress. As the sun started to set, they came to where they'd left the wagon.

"We'll make a camp here and leave at dawn," advised Slim.

"Great," said Jess, "I'll see if I can scare up a rabbit or two," and disappeared into the undergrowth.

Mort went to collect firewood and Andy and Talks to Horses settled the animals.

Jess slunk through the vegetation until he came to a likely spot and settled behind a bush. Pretty soon a few rabbits appeared. He drew his gun and squeezed the trigger twice. In an instant two rabbits fell and the others rushed for cover. Picking them up he headed back to camp. A movement caught his attention up in the trees but was gone before he'd had a chance to fix on it.

Chapter 25

About an hour earlier, Amos had found the wagon, and put two and two together. He was now almost certain it had come from the Sherman place. Why they had left it there he had no idea. He decided to retreat to a hiding place higher up in the treeline and watch. After his long day of riding, he fell asleep and was woken by two gun shots. Jumping up for a second not knowing where he was, he quickly fell to the ground as he focused on people down below him.

He watched for a while as they sat down and had supper. His stomach grumbled as he smelt the food cooking. The descriptions the people in the saloon had given him let him pinpoint the tall blond-haired man as Slim Sherman and his dark-haired partner as Jess Harper. He didn't know who the kid was or the other man, but he'd deal with them if he had to. What worried him more were the Cheyenne with them. He knew he would not be able to deal with them as well. He sat thinking how he could finish this. As it happened the Cheyenne were not the problem when the time came.

Everyone was up early. Red Wing came to speak to Slim. "We have decided to leave you now. We can travel to our camp from here. It's been good to see you friend."

"It's been good to see you too. Let's not leave it so long," replied Slim.

Jess, Mort and Andy stood by Slim and watched them go. Andy was sad to see Talks to Horses leave. It had been good to spend some time with someone his own age.

"Well come on, let's get ready to go too," suggested Jess. "I've a hankering to be home and taste one of Jonesy's apple pies."

Horses were saddled, and harnessed, and soon all traces they had been there were gone.

Tying Traveler to the back of the wagon, Jess sprang onto the seat and picked up the reins, "I'll drive Slim, you drove here, I'll drive home."

Slim stood by Alamo checking his cinch, "That's fine with …"

The rest of his words were lost as the whine of a bullet was heard, followed closely by another.

The first bullet took Slims hat off. The next hit him in the side he fell to the ground as he reached for his gun. He let out a small groan and fell silent.

Andy screamed, "Slim! Slim!" and started to run to him.

"No!" yelled Jess, "Stay with Mort." He drew his gun and jumped to the ground. Two shots, one after the other came from above; Jess fell against the wagon and collapsed to the ground. He lay there trying to access the damage. The top of his shoulder was complaining but his belly felt like it was on fire.

"Jess! Jess!" Andy stared at both bodies on the ground.

"No Andy, stay here." Mort grabbed him and pushed him down out of sight.

He looked over at Slim and Jess. "It can't end like this," he muttered to himself.

Looking up into the trees he tried to fix where the bullets had come from, but he could not see anything or anyone.

High above them, Amos smiled. He would watch a bit longer to see it was done, and then he'd ride away. He intended to head into the Dakota's. He had heard there were plenty of good things happening for folks in places such as Deadwood, Custer, Rapid City, who didn't mind helping themselves and Amos wasn't shy of helping himself. Lost in his thoughts, he was unaware of the noise above him until it was too late.

Rushing toward him were two of the biggest, hairiest, creatures he had ever seen. A terrible growling and snarling came from them. Before he could move the first one was on him. He was picked up like a toy and shaken. He felt the long muscular arms go round him and felt the hot breath of the creature on his face and neck. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw the other creature pick up his gun and smash it against a rock. He became aware of a noise, a loud banging knocking sound with a rhythm that pulsed through his head.

Down in the valley, Mort and Andy heard it as well. It was different to the way they had been welcomed; this was pure anger and it sent shivers down both their spines.

Amos's brain could not work out what was happening. Looking into the creature's eyes he understood there was no getting out of this situation. He felt the arms around him tighten and found it difficult to breathe. He heard what he realised were his bones cracking; he felt his back snap and then felt nothing.

The creature lifted him above his head and flung the limp body over the edge. Mort and Andy watched it fly through the air and land with a loud thump. It lay motionless.

The creatures remained for a few seconds on the ridge, then the noise died down and they disappeared into the trees.

Chapter 26

Andy was the first to react. He leapt to his feet and ran to Slim. Mort, once he had gathered his senses together, moved over to Jess.

Turning him on his belly, Mort found two bullet wounds, one in the right shoulder. Mort gently felt for an exit wound but found none. Damn it, he thought, the bullet is still in there. the other bullet appeared to have cut a furrow across Jess's abdomen. It looked as if it had hit the buckle on his belt and just skated across the skin. Jess uttered a moan, Mort bent down to ear level.

"You'll be okay Jess, just keep still," he muttered.

Jess opened his eyes, "Ya think so…I feel like I've been kicked by a mule… twice."

"I know son. You've got a nasty gash on your belly. Painful, but not dangerous. Looks as if your belt buckle saved you, it's a bit mangled."

Jess hissed through his teeth at Mort, "What about the other one?"

"Not so good, the bullet's still there, but there's not much blood so hopefully it's not that bad."

Mort took a clean bandana from a pocket and gently pressed it against the wound.

"Ouch…how's Slim. Is he alright?" Jess sucked in his breath and Mort realised he was trying to get up, and firmly held him down.

Giving up Jess slumped against the wheel.

"Help me up. I need to see Slim,"

Mort shook his head and stood his ground, "You just stay there. I'll go look at Slim."

Calling Andy to sit with Jess, Mort gave instructions to keep firm pressure on the wound and to stop Jess from moving.

He went to check on Slim. He was breathing and had a wound on his left side just below his ribs. Mort thought the bullet was still there. An additional inspection found he was right. It was not too far in but would have to come out. A further search located a large egg sized lump on the back of Slim's head. A trickle of blood ran from it.

Looking down Mort found the edge of a large rock sticking up from the soil.

"Darn it, looks as if he knocked his head when he went down."

He tapped Slim's face.

"Come on son, wake up."

"How is he Mort?" croaked a voice. "Andy, go and see, will ya?"

"But I should stay with you Jess," replied Andy.

"I'm okay…just tell me is Slim alright?"

Andy looked at Jess's anxious face…He's not worried about himself, he thought, just Slim.

"I'll go and check, but don't move."

Mort continued to talk to Slim as he tried to wake him. He was soon rewarded with a low groan, followed by an "Oh my head," and a "What happened?"

Andy wrapped his arms around his brother trying not to cause more discomfort.

"You're awake?" he said, a big smile on his face.

"Guess I am. What happened?" he asked again. "Where's Jess?"

Slim tried to sit up but found his head throbbed too much. He felt his side and winced when he touched the damage the bullet had made.

"He's over there," Andy pointed towards the wagon.

"Slim, you okay?" called Jess, his voice somewhat closer and a bit stronger. He crawled into view and plonked himself down next to Slim.

"How ya doing Pard?" he asked.

"Be better if my head didn't hurt and my side is screaming at me. What about you?"

"Oh, I'm fine, just a bit sore."

Slim focused on Jess's white face. "I don't think that's true, is it?" he gently asked.

"Maybe not," came the whispered reply.

Andy took one look at the blood beginning to soak into Jess's blue shirt.

"I told you to stay put… you never listen…why don't you listen?" Andy quickly pressed the bandana back into place.

Jess appealed to Mort and Slim,

"Aw, don't let him moan at me…I felt alright, but now...I'll admit to feeling a bit unsteady."

Slim remained silent, he was feeling a bit unsteady himself. Mort shook his head again.

"I'm with Andy…now just keep still while we do something about these wounds."

He fetched bandages from his saddle bags and asked Andy to make a fire and get some water boiling.

"We don't want any infections getting hold. Wish I had some of Jonesy's salve?"

Knowing how Jonesy never sent these two off unprepared, he looked at Slim and Jess.

"You got anything in your saddle bags?"

"No!" came a very quick but definite answer from Slim.

"Mmm, maybe I'd better take a look," queried Mort and got up to check.

"You got anything in there Slim?" murmured Jess.

"Jonesy may have put a jar in there. You know that God awful ointment. Smells like something died. What about you?"

"Think I've got one as well. Suppose we are just gonna have to put up with it…actually I think I gotta small bottle of whiskey in there as well. Forgot about that."

Mort came back carrying a couple of jars, and a small bottle.

"You boys just conveniently overlooked these, is that right? Come on let's get these wounds looked at, and those bullets will have to come out."

Mort bent over to unfasten Jess's shirt when he was stopped by the sound of hoofs. Looking up he saw Red Wing and his companions ride into the camp. Dismounting, Red Wing glanced around and walked over to the small group.

"We were not far when we heard shots…we decided to come back and see if you needed us." He knelt down beside Slim.

"Are you alright, old friend?"

Gritting his teeth, Slim replied, "I will be…"

Red Wing carefully examined where the bullet had left its mark.

"This needs to come out…leave it to us."

"No, check Jess first," insisted Slim.

"No Slim, you go first."

"Will you two stop being so damn polite," growled Mort. He looked at Red Wing, "Reckon we can deal with them at the same time."

Before long the fire was roaring, knives were heated, and bullets were being removed. Both Slim and Jess had had a good long swig of whiskey and both were putting on a brave appearance, though teeth were gritted and perspiration was running off two faces. Pretty soon the worst was over and both were lying on blankets, bandaged and covered in Jonesy's ointment, not to mention some other concoctions that Red Wing said would also help the wounds heal. Red Wing and the others had been impressed by the ointment; they had recognised all the ingredients in it and praised Jonesy.

"Wow, said Andy, "Jonesy always says he got the recipe from an Indian he met."

Slim and Jess grinned at each other the same thought running through their heads wishing Jonesy had not met that Indian, however they had to admit that apart from the smell the ointment usually did the job it was supposed to.

"What are you two grinning about?" questioned Mort. "Too much whiskey?"

"Maybe" came the reply.

"Yeah, well just behave yourselves, in case you've forgotten you're both wounded."

Mort picked up the almost empty bottle and finished it. "Do you two think you can ride in the wagon, and we could get some distance from here…I'm beginning to wonder how Chris is getting on."

Chris and his posse were doing okay, they had ridden to the ranch and spoken to Jonesy and Ben. While they watered and rested their horses, Chris went inside.

"Jonesy, I got a poster of Amos Walker. Was this the man who came here?"

"Sure is Chris, didn't like the look of him at all." Jonesy showed the poster to Ben.

"Yep", said Ben, "Its him alright."

Going outside, Chris addressed the men.

"He's been here, it looks as if he's going after Slim and Jess. We'd better get after him."

Voices muttered in agreement as they all mounted.

"Don't worry Jonesy, we'll get him. Slim and Jess are no pushover and Mort is with them, they'll be fine," assured Chris.

Jonesy watched anxiously as they rode away. "I hope so,"

The posse travelled fast, and consequently were soon in sight of the Laramie range and its foothills. They had seen no-one although the tracks they were following were clear. Stopping to rest themselves and the horses they heard distance gunshots. Quickly tightening cinches, they were all in their saddles and heading toward the sound.

Chapter 27

Mort and Andy with the help of Red Wing and his friends lifted Slim and Jess into the wagon, covering them with blankets and jackets. Mort made sure they were as close to each other as they could be. Jess tried to squirm into a sitting position but was grabbed by Andy and firmly pushed down.

"Stay where you are Jess, you and Slim can share what body heat you have. I don't want you getting cold," said Mort as he climbed onto the driver's seat.

"It's just I like to see where I'm going," grumbled Jess.

"Just lay still Jess, it'll be better for you. I don't want you getting worse than you are," soothed Slim.

"Yeah, all those chores that'll need doing…"

"Yep, something like that," replied Slim.

Red Wing had sent Grey Wolf and Stands Tall to find the body of the shooter. They came back with him tied across his horse which they had found tied to a nearby bush. Scared by all the noise, it had thrown its head up and rolled its eyes at them, but after a few gentle words it soon calmed down.

Mort lifted the dead man's head, "Amos Walker, well it doesn't surprise me. There'll be a reward on him." he said to Slim and Jess.

They tied the horse to the back of the wagon, along with Alamo, Traveller and Mort's horse. Andy mounted Cyclone.

Red Wing and his friends waved goodbye again and wished them a safer journey home. Red Wing promised they would always be friends and that no person would ever be harmed on Sherman land.

"I hope that holds true," said Jess.

"Of course, it will", replied Andy, "You trust them don't ya?"

"Yeah, I do Andy."

Mort took up the lines, and slowly encouraged the horse forward.

They made good time; Slim and Jess were quiet, sleeping off the effects of the whiskey. Andy rode beside the wagon, so he could check on his brother and his friend, whom he looked on as another brother, but had not yet told him. He promised himself he would soon; it had given him quite a shock to see both Slim and Jess on the ground wounded. It made him think what he would do without them. He tried not to dwell on it, but it had really shaken him up and he wanted to get home and to see Jonesy.

The wagon bumped down the track.

A deep voice came from the back, "Hey watch those ruts."

"Sorry Jess, I'm going as slow as I can," replied Mort.

Jess lay looking at the sky, he suddenly raised his head, "I can hear horses. Let me sit up!" His hand crept to his gun. Finding it not there was a bit of a surprise.

"Where's my gun?" he groused.

"Help me up too Andy," said Slim.

"No," said Andy in a firm voice.

"Andy! where's my gun?" asked Jess loudly.

"It's in the wagon with you…anyway you won't need it…the riders are Deputy Chris and his posse."

"Andy's turning right bossy lately, I feel like I've been told off." quipped Slim.

"Yep, me too," replied Jess.

Andy pursed his lips at them and frowned.

"It's 'cause I care about you both, that's all."

"Howdy, Chris. It's good to see you," said Mort smiling at his deputy.

"We heard shots, is everyone ok?" He looked into the wagon bed,

"Slim and Jess are they…"

From the back of the wagon two voices called out; they were fine and would it be too much trouble to just get home.

Mort grinned, "The whiskey I gave them is still giving them a good time, don't think it'll be so funny when we get them home".

Mort explained to Chris what had happened and how Amos Walker had shot Jess and Slim, but then fell from the ridge up above. He didn't mention anything else.

Chris told Mort he had come after them when he realised Amos was in town asking questions about the death of his brother. He'd stopped at the ranch and spoken to Jonesy who had confirmed Amos had been there.

Deciding to stop so they could eat, and the horses and men could be rested, they made a campfire and Andy put water onto boil.

"Is that for coffee?" asked Jess hopefully.

"No, I'm gonna check your wounds…both of you."

Andy climbed into the wagon and carefully removed the bandages. He cleaned the wounds and slathered on more of Jonesy's ointment much to Slim and Jess's horror.

"Reckon once we get within sight of the ranch, Jonesy will be able to smell us coming," said Slim.

"Ain't that the truth," replied Jess.

"Well, whatever you two think of it…it is working. Your wounds look really good. Get some rest now and in the morning, I might let you both have coffee," said Andy with a slight grin.

"Yes sir!" chorused both the patients.

Mort chuckled at Andy, "Looks like you got everything under control."

Chapter 28

The rest of the journey home went well with no distractions apart from the odd groans from Slim and Jess when the wagon hit a bump.

When the sign for The Sherman Ranch heaved into view, they all breathed a sigh of relief. Andy because Jonesy would take over the nursing care; Slim and Jess because it would get them out of the wagon and they could stretch out on comfortable beds; Mort because he would soon be in Laramie, sitting in his office in his comfortable chair, feet up on the desk and drinking a nice cup of coffee; the posse because they needed to be home, some that had families couldn't wait to see them, and those that had no families had a thirst for a cold beer in the saloon. Chris was one of the latter. He didn't have a wife yet although he was courting of sorts.

Stopping at the top of the hill, he turned to Mort, "Are you coming with us?"

"Yep, I know I can trust Andy to get those two home, it's just down the hill after all, and he's done a fine job so far. You okay with that Andy?"

Andy fairly beamed with pride at the compliment, "Yeah, I reckon I am."

Jonesy had been up extra early every day since everyone had been gone, and consequently his chores were finished early. Ben had gone home to catch up on his own jobs, so he was sitting on the porch dosing quietly in the shade it gave him. His old ears heard a creak of a wagon and a slight jingle of a harness. He opened his eyes and peered towards the top of the slope. Next second, he was on his feet and jogging towards the corral, a relieved smile on his face. He noticed that Slim and Jess weren't on horseback and the smile faded slightly.

Andy waved to him, "It's alright Jonesy," he said reading the look on Jonesy's face. "They're in the wagon, just a bit beaten up is all."

The wagon pulled up and Jonesy looked over the side to be met with two smiling sheepish faces. The old man took in the bandages and wounds, and noticed they were wearing quite a lot of his ointment.

"Well, looky here," he said. "What happened to you two?"

"Just get us inside Jonesy…we'll fill you in later," said Slim looking at Jess, "Although I'm not sure I can."

"No good looking at me," replied Jess.

"Well just as well I was there, I'll explain it all later." Andy helped Jess out of the wagon, with Jonesy and Slim following behind.

Once inside Jonesy got them out of their dirty, dusty, and not a little bloodied, clothes and despatched them to their beds. "I'll be in to check on those wounds in a few minutes."

Andy was helping himself to a glass of water at the sink.

"I'm very glad to see you boy," declared Jonesy giving him a hug.

"I'm glad to see you too and very glad to be home," replied Andy.

"I'll go and sort out the horses. They've had a long trip, and all could do with a bit of a fuss."

Bit like those two inside, Jonesy thought. He watched Andy walk away and realised how he was growing and taking responsibility. He hadn't been keen on Andy going on the trip but now he was prepared to concede it may have done him some good. Putting water on the stove to boil, he went to see how his other boys were.

Chapter 29

Mort, Chris and the remains of the posse; some had already left to go home, trailed into Laramie. Their horses walked slowly with reins loose and heads down, all were wanting their stables and a good feed. Chris headed to the undertaker and Mort went to the livery and left his horse with the capable young man who worked there.

Between Laramie and the ranch, they had seen the Doctor out on his rounds. Mort had asked him to call in to see Slim and Jess.

"I was wondering about those two recently. Haven't seen them for a couple of months. I was missing them. I'll go now." He turned his horse in a circle and went on his way at a brisk trot.

Leaving the livery Mort walked to his jailhouse and unlocked the door. He contemplated the coffee pot which was of course stone cold and made the decision to go to Margi's café for a respectable coffee. That trail stuff can rot your gut, he mused.

Chris burst through the door, "You got a minute Mort?"

"Sure son, what is it?"

Chris sat down at the desk and removed his hat. Placing it on the table he took a deep breath and began.

"It's the same at the others. We were checking the body for personal effects…his bones…all of them…broken. What happened to him out there?"

Mort had already decided to tell no-one what he had seen. Something like this gets out and the town and local area would be full of idiots with guns looking for trophies.

"He fell from a fair height and bounced against the cliff a few times; there were plenty of boulders and rocks where he landed."

"Yeah, but that don't explain the others, does it?"

"I don't know Chris, reckon it's gonna be one of life's mysteries. Anyway, I'm going over to Margi's for a decent coffee, you want to join me?"

Chris hesitated briefly, "Okay Mort, but…" he began.

"Stop thinking about it Chris, it'll send you loco. Now come on, if you're real lucky I might buy you a slab of peach cobbler."

Chris placed his hat on his head and followed Mort out of the door. His first thought was Mort is right, sometimes things are best left alone, his second thought, peach cobbler, my favourite.

The Doc drove into the Sherman yard just as Andy came out of the barn.

"Hey Doc, you got here quick," he called out. "Jonesy is inside with Slim and Jess."

Doc climbed down and went inside with Andy. Knowing the way, he went directly to the bedroom, stopping at the door to look at Slim and Jess, wrapped up in blankets.

"Good grief, both of you. What have you been doing?"

Before they could answer, Andy launched into an explanation. Doc listened carefully and then looked at the wounds.

"And you dressed and looked after them." he asked. "You made a good job of it and kept infection at bay. I'm impressed Andy."

Andy blushed at the compliment, "It weren't just me," he began.

"Wasn't" said Slim automatically.

Frowning, Andy started again, "It wasn't just me, Mort and the Cheyenne helped and Jonesy's ointment played a big part."

"Jonesy, I'd really like to talk about your ointment sometime. I hope you've got the ingredients written down?"

"I do Doc, and one day I think I might pass it onto Andy here, as these two don't appreciate it quite so much."

Slim winked at Jess, "It's not what it does Jonesy, it just smells so bad.

"Suppose it works ok" said Jess, "I'll admit to my wounds feeling better".

Doc tidied his instruments away and did his bag up. "You two do as you are told and I see no reason why you shouldn't get up tomorrow. Jonesy, you got any coffee on the go?"

"Sure have Doc. Come with me."

Jess looked at Slim, "Good, can we have some?"

Andy smiled at them, "Tomorrow," he said as he firmly shut the door behind him.

Epilogue

Andy woke them up a couple of hours after dawn. He was carrying bandages and an ominous jar of ointment. Checking their wounds he was pleased and said they could get up and have breakfast and, much to Jess's relief, coffee.

They didn't need telling twice and were up and dressed of sorts and sitting at the table in short time. Jonesy placed a plate of scrambled eggs and biscuits on the table, and a big pot of coffee.

After they had eaten, Andy buttoned up shirts and tucked them in. They all sat down and told Jonesy what had happened, with Andy filling in any bits that Slim and Jess didn't know. Jonesy's mouth dropped open and his coffee turned cold.

"Well, I'll be. Wish I could have been there," he muttered.

"We've decided that all that went on will be kept between us," Slim said.

"Oh, I agree with that," stated Jonesy getting up to refresh his coffee. "I mean who would believe us?"

Slim carried on, "And you Andy, I was really proud of the way you took charge. Keeping Jess under control is no easy thing."

"Hey, what do ya mean? I'm a pussy-cat," laughed Jess.

"Yeah, a snarling mountain lion." came back Slim with a chuckle.

"I've got something to show you both, you too Jonesy," interrupted Andy. He put a drawing pad on the table and opened it. Inside was a beautiful drawing of Molly and her baby.

"That's really good…we won't forget her now Andy," exclaimed Jess.

"That's a real talent Andy," said Slim. "You going to draw something else?"

"Yep, I've started it. It's of you and Jess and I'm going to call it "My Brothers," Andy blushed a little when he saw Jess's face light up, and how pleased he looked.

Later that evening, Slim and Jess sat on the porch soaking up the last rays of the sun.

Jess gently stretched and hid a yawn. He'd had a smile on his face since Andy had called him brother. After all it was how he felt about him and Slim.

"Ya know what Slim. The next time you think you see a bear, then let's say it's a bear. Could save us a lot of trouble."

Slim smiled, "Couldn't agree more Pard."

The End.