A week later

You all should be very proud of these test results and as a reward, we are going to be spending some time outside of the classroom next week we are going to be studying the scientific field of entomology does anyone know what entomology means entomology is the study of insects but for today class is dismissed Elizabeth said

Yes let's go a Boy said

See you all soon okay don't forget your lunch pails by come on hustle afternoon constable Elizabeth said

Actually, I'm here in an unofficial capacity jack said

Oh I see Elizabeth said

I've come to ask for your hand jack said

I beg your pardon Elizabeth said

Your hand May I have it jack said

Oh mmm-hmm Elizabeth said

Miss Elizabeth Letcher I would like to invite you to join me for supper this Saturday night the pleasure of your company would be truly appreciated jack said

Why are you being so old formal Elizabeth said

Well if you remember my last attempt at inviting you to supper didn't end well this time I want to be perfectly clear that my invitation not require you to cook jack said

I appreciate your lovely invitation and I accept is that it Elizabeth said

Uh yeah jack said

Then may I have my hand back Elizabeth said (both chuckling)

I shall assume that this supper does not imply the beginning of a possible courtship you've made it very clear that offers or Mounties do not have wives if they wanted you to have a wife they would have issued you one Elizabeth said

Did I say that jack said

(Chuckles ) several time Elizabeth said

That does sound like something I'd say jack said

So I will see you Saturday night for supper Elizabeth said

Yes see you Saturday night for supper and Elizabeth please do consider this an act of courtship (as he kisses her hand) jack said

Seconds later the stage couches in town

You must be jack Thornton Thomas said

Yes I am who might you be sir jack said

Constable Thomas O'Reilly he said

And where is your hour's constable jack said

Well she wanted to make a grand entrance Thomas said

And who might she be jack said

Oh my goodness oh my gosh what are you doing here Elizabeth said

Well you didn't think I was going to let you have all the fun out in the Wild West did you Julie said

You come all by yourself Elizabeth said

Daddy got me my own personal office as an escort, of course, I am much more interested in meeting your man in red serge Julie said

Oh, look out for the ... Elizabeth said

That didn't happen Julie said

You said you wanted to experience the Wild West Elizabeth said

And here I am into it with both feet so to speak hi I'm Julie thatcher Elizabeth's sister Julie said

A pleasure to meet you ma'am jack said

That evening at Abigail's

Here we go, Abigail, said

Thank you so much, Mrs. Stanton, Julie said

Please call me Abigail how long did you say you'd be staying Abigail said

Don't be alarmed for Julie this is hardly a week's worth of clothes Elizabeth said

Well you never know what outfit an occasion might call for I do apologize for not sending an advance warning of my visit I wanted to surprise Elizabeth Julie said

Something she's been doing since she came out of the womb feet first no less Elizabeth said

Well it's no trouble at all we're happy to have you Abigail said

I love your home it's so...rustic so quaint Julie said

I think what Julie meant to say is ... Elizabeth said

It's okay Elizabeth Abigail said

Rustic and quaint work quite well for this town Abigail said

So when are you going to tell me what's really going on Julie said

Pardon me Elizabeth said

Between you and that delectable Mountie, Julie said

You must mean jack Thornton, we're just friends Elizabeth said

Stop I saw the way you were looking at him does he feel the same way about you Julie said

Who says how I'm feeling Elizabeth said

Please it's as if there's gravity between you like the earth pulling on the moon Julie said

You're being bombastic there was no gravity Elizabeth said

Fine but since when do we keep secret from each other Julie said

If you must know he asked me out for dinner this Saturday night and I accepted it's his first clear explanation of interest Elizabeth said

I know it this is like something right out of a romance novel a beautiful vulnerability young teacher comes to a farming town Julie said

It's a coal-mining town which is why they call it Valley SpringElizabeth said

Oh even better then something is awakened inside of her by a virile man of the law in a red serges jacket Julie said

Awakened virile we went from bombast to melodrama to obscene Elizabeth said

So where is he taking you on an hours-drawn carriage ride it should be white like Cinderella Julie said

This is not a fairytale I'm not a princess Elizabeth said

Then to a romantic French bistro for crepes and sweets toffee liqueur Julie said

He's probably taking me to the saloon Elizabeth said

What you mean that dusty old hole you teach in Julie said

It's the thought that counts and more importantly there will be no meddling in my love life understand Elizabeth said

Me meddle I never meddle I don't meddle I invest emotionally into your well-being and when my sister tells me she's in love, of course, I want to Julie said

A love I said nothing of the sort "love life" is a general term for ...friendly companionship between the sexes Elizabeth said

Well if you say so Julie

The next morning

Well it appears As if I underestimated you, Mrs. Stanton, I didn't think you'd be able to cobble this together but you have Martin said

Never underestimate what had work set to a dream can achieve Abigail said

There you go if I may a cup of coffee and something sweet Martin said

Absolutely coming right up good morning jack Abigail said

Good morning I was wondering if I could trouble you for the usual jack said

Oh you have no idea how wonderful that sounds I actually have a customer who wants the usual oh by the way I have everything all ready for Saturday night Abigail said

Thank you I so appreciate your help jack said

Well here you go Mr. Gowen, Abigail said

Ah it looks wonderful though I can't imagine it can be as sweet as you Martin said

Oh that man gets on my nerves Abigail said

I can understand that jack said

Meanwhile at school

There are so many different kinds of insects that we study them in the different subgroup or families for example melittology is the study of bees Elizabeth said

I've read that it can also be called apiology Julie said

Thank you, Julie, but that's actually a sub-discipline specific to honey bees Elizabeth said

Oh well then my apologies Julie said

Now then we are going on something of a treasure hunt next week with all of nature's beautiful little creatures being our prize we'll be looking under rocks and pulling the bark off of trees Elizabeth said

And in by we she means all of you the truth is your very own miss thatcher is terrified of bugs... Julie said

That's enough Julie I too will be hunting for insects just the rest of you Elizabeth said

I look forward to seeing that she's mortified I tell you Julie said

That night at the jailhouse

So how does someone with your rank and experience end up with this escort assignment jack said

I volunteered for it Thomas said

Why jack said

Well I've been working in north Burlington and Elwood ridge the last 15 years the job was everything they promised it would be danger excitement travel along with the satisfaction of keeping people safe Thomas said

And what? You've had enough? Jack said

Never but after I met Emily everything changed we got married last year she's expecting our first child Thomas said

Congratulations Thomas jack said

Yeah I never thought I'd consider settling down but life has a way of changing your priorities anyway I'm getting too old to be chasing bad guys it's your true to round'em up and put'em in jail tell me everything I need to know about Valley Spring and you're free to go this is for you Thomas said

Thanks, I've been reassigned jack said

Yes you do want to go Thomas said

It's just... I've sort of settled in here and made my peace with this place I put in for a request so long ago I'd almost forgotten about it jack said

Request form what I heard you made a demand Thomas said

Well when I first got here I won't deny that I wanted to leave this place wasn't what I signed up for jack said

It looks like you have a decision to make Thomas said

The next night was Saturday night

You look gorgeous Julie said

What smells so good Elizabeth said

Oh Abigail must just be experimenting for the cafe Julie said

Knocking on door

That must be him. Why am I so nervous Elizabeth said

You're supposed to be Julie said

You never get like this Elizabeth said

Well I've had more suitors than you Julie said

Jack Thornton you look ... Elizabeth said

So do you ... here I brought this for you jack said

It's beautiful Elizabeth said

May I jack said

Please Elizabeth said

Not that way jack said

Why I thought you were taking me to the saloon Elizabeth said

Well this place seems a little more appropriate said jack

Welcome to Abigail's cafe Gabe said

Shall we jack said

How long have you been planning this Elizabeth said

That's a secret jack said

I have to admit I never would have pegged you for such a romantic Elizabeth said

Well I have a little help jack said

So you don't normally woo your other woman like this Elizabeth said

I haven't really had the opportunity to woo many women jack said

You must think me naive Elizabeth said

No, sadly it's true the life of officer doesn't leave too much time for courting jack said

Oh Elizabeth said

I feel somewhat lacking in the area of romance I feel that my efforts tonight may pale in comparison to the legions of suitors you had back home jack said

Far from it perhaps Elizabeth said

Then I feel really lucky Elizabeth I ... jack said

You dance beautifully Elizabeth said

Thank you jack said

I'm glad you asked me out to dinner Elizabeth said

Me too jack said

Later that night

Oh you must tell me everything Julie said

It was the most enchanting evening of my entire life it was beyond anything I could have ever dare to dream it was like something out of a... Elizabeth said

Romance novels Julie said

Yes but I've never read anything quite so romantic Elizabeth said

So what will the next chapter bring Julie said

I don't know but it sure feels like something changed tonight like we're swimming in much different waters Elizabeth said

And skinny dipping at that Julie said

Julie Elizabeth said

I was speaking metaphorically of course so what's next Julie said

He wants to take me on a ride to his favorite place he says he has something he wants to discuss with me Elizabeth said

A proposal Julie said

No, it's much too early for that isn't it Elizabeth said

Love at first sight often leads to short courtships Julie said

(Squealing)

This is so exciting Julie said

Meanwhile at the jailhouse

How do it go Thomas said

We were having such a nice evening I didn't know how to bring it up jack said

Well you're gonna have to do it soon you're expected in cape Fullerton within the next two weeks you could send word that you're not coming but after the fuss, you made to leave here a transfer refusal could be the end of your career Thomas said

That Monday morning at the cafe after the dinner

Hello jack can I get you your usual Abigail said

No, I'm okay I just wanted to come by and thank you for the wonderful dinner on Saturday night jack said

It was my pleasure I trust you had a lovely evening Abigail said

Very much so can I trust you to be discreet jack said

Yes of course what is it Abigail said

Now I haven't told Elizabeth this yet but I've received some news I've been granted a new post a post I've always dreamt of having jack said

You're leaving Valley SpringAbigail said

I have orders I need to fulfill I wouldn't be gone permanently but... jack said

But you can't be sure that things will be the same when you return jack you're got to tell her oh just when I thought it was going to be a glorious day Abigail said

Has he been bothering you I could talk to him if you like jack said

No, I'm quite capable of rebuking his advances and I have an iron skillet that makes a fine weapon if need be jack? what is it? Abigail said

Nothing jack said

Please tell me Abigail said

Now I've done my own inquiry into this mine explosion it appears the company may have cut some corners in order to save some money corners that might have led to this disaster I don't have any hard proof yet according to my research it should have been prevented with adequate safety measures are you okay jack said

It's just that my late husband, Noah was really locking heads with Martin Gowen month before the explanation he wouldn't tell me why he didn't want me to worry but I wonder could this be what that was all about? Abigail said

I am so sorry if I upset you and this is not something that I would normally share so early in my investigation but I may need some help jack said

Anything Abigail said

Later that afternoon the (children speaking Indistinctly)

My feet are hurting and they're freezing can I go back to the classroom now Julie said

You were the one who was so excited to join us on our little insect hunt Elizabeth said

Well you could have picked a more suitable day for this Julie said

Well you could have picked a more suitable pair of shoes Elizabeth said

Hello constables what happens to be you by this time Julie said

Actually, we're just out on patrol jack and Thomas said

Well what a happy coincidence you should just happen upon Elizabeth's class here in the forest Julie said

Since you're here jack maybe you have some free time to take Julie on a tour of the surrounding countryside Elizabeth said

I would love to however I have some paperwork back at the office constable O'Reilly is free jack said

Oh really because I would just love to see the countryside I just need to get my riding boots Julie said

Thank you Elizabeth said

My pleasure Thomas said

Julie was right I'm not here by coincidence there is something I still need to talk to you about jack said

Miss Thatcher come and see this slimy bug I found under this rock Gabe said

Just give me a moment just a moment please Gabe, What was it you wanted to say Elizabeth said

Okay I'll let you get back to your slimy bug there's plenty of time for us to talk on our picnic perhaps tomorrow after class jack said

I'll pack the food Elizabeth said

Wonderful jack said

Meanwhile in the countryside

Where are you going Thomas said

Into the tree Julie said

I don't think that's a very good idea it could be a bear habitat and I am not interested messing with any grizzlies thank you very much, Thomas said

Well where's your sense of adventure Julie said

I left it back in my last post look we should be getting back to town anyway Thomas said

Just give me one moment stay here nature calls Julie said

Hold it right there Nathaniel said

Don't shoot it's in my saddle bag my money Julie said

Lady I'm not gonna rob you just calm down will ya Nathaniel said

Oh sorry to be so presumptuous I'm not accustomed to strange men introducing themselves by pointing a gun in my face Julie said

You're the one who snuck in and surprised me Nathaniel said

You're bleeding Julie said

Some men were chasing me Nathaniel said

What men Julie

Outlaw I got away but my horse threw me and I ... I tangled in some barbed wire Nathaniel said

There's a town just a short ride away I could take you to see the company doctor Julie said

I'll be fine Nathaniel said

Now I've read all about you rough and tumble cowboys but you can't just rub some dirt in that wound and hope it'll mend you need medical attention Julie said

Please just... leave me be Nathaniel said

Well I can't just let you bleed to death Julie said

Then get me some bandages and some alcohol to keep it clean Nathaniel said

Looks like you'll need some food as well and something for the pain Julie said

Yeah just don't go making this anyone's business in that town okay I need to know I can trust you Nathaniel said

Well you don't really have a chance now do you Julie said

Listen this is for your safety as much as it is mine those outlaws could still be out there so uh... you just make darn certain you're not being followed you understand Nathaniel said

I'll be back tomorrow Julie said

Hey what's your name Nathaniel said

It's Julie Julie said

Julie that's really pretty Nathaniel said

And what might yours be Julie said

Nathaniel Nathaniel said

That's not some kind of alias Julie said

No ma'am Nathaniel said

I should go Julie said

That evening at the jailhouse

So she just left you wanting there jack said

For nearly an hour she said she couldn't find the appropriate place to do her business Thomas said

Clearly, you were assigned the more challenging of the thatcher sisters jack said

I've tracked and arrange lifelong criminals who were easier to manage than she so were you able to talk to Elizabeth about your transfer Thomas said

We're going on a picnic after school tomorrow jack said

So you've made a decision Thomas said

Can you tell me anything about what I'm headed into jack said

Well we're pursuing several criminal right now the most elusive is the tolls gang Nate tolls he's the brains he's young but he's managed to outsmart the best of us Thomas said

Yeah I've heard about him how many banks have they hit jack said

Fifteen or so across this region and it's not just banks it's trains stagecoach... anything really he's dangerous jack thinks nothing of pulling a gun Thomas said

Well I look forward to beinging him to justice jack said

The next day

Would you mind raising up your shirt a little to expose the wound oh Julie said

Can we please just get this over with don't worry about the pain just clean it up as best you can Nathaniel said

I'll have you know I don't sleep a wink last night Julie said

I was thinking of you too Nathaniel said

I was simply worried for your safety staying out in this dirty place all by yourself hiding from god knows what Julie said

I'm used to being on my own Nathaniel said

This injury obviously wasn't caused by barbed wire Julie said

I'm sorry you came in here and you caught me by surprise the truth of it is the less you know about me the better for both our sakes Nathaniel said

Well My sister is seeing a officer maybe he could track down the men who did this to you Julie said

I said this was no one else's business especially no officer please don't don't leave I can explain Nathaniel said

I think maybe you were right the less I know Julie said

My brother and his gang he um they robbed a bank Nathaniel said

I see and you're obviously part of that gang Julie said

I never had a choice it's my older brother if it wasn't for joe we were orphans and he never quite on me so I can't quite on him Nathaniel said

But you need to break free from your brothers clutches Julie said

Julie he's all I got but you're right of course I have no interest in living a life of crime I've um stood between my brother and an innocent man more then one that's how I got shot Nathaniel said

Saving lives Julie said

Mmm Nathaniel said

You're a good man Julie said

I wanna be Nathaniel said

Later that afternoon

I can see why you wanted to bring a camera this is an amazing view Elizabeth said

Yes it is they issued one of these for an investigation tool but I haven't really had much chance to use it here in Valley Springtill now jack said

That's not fair why don't we take one of the both of us Elizabeth said

Okay come here smile jack said

I haven't stopped since our supper Elizabeth said

One two three Elizabeth I have to talk to you about something if you recall when I first got to Valley SpringI was uh unhappy with my posting jack said

You were furious Elizabeth said

And I put in a transfer request to cape Fullerton jack said

You wanted to be where all the action is and you were right to be upset you were diverted from your dream Elizabeth said

And I couldn't see my purpose here jack said

Are you saying that's changed have you found a new purpose Elizabeth said

Well it appears my request has been granted jack said

You have new orders Elizabeth said

Yes I am so sorry jack said

That night at home

It's my fault he told me the truth from the beginning I always knew he was leaving it was just a matter of when he'd be transferred Elizabeth said

I have to believe he wasn't expecting his transfer to come I know he would never ask you out or pursue you Abigail said

I was a diversion something to keep him occupied before he left Elizabeth said

You're correct in thinking that he had no plans to stay or to fall in love but I believe he did Abigail said

If he leaves he could get hurt or killed or he could meet somebody else I might never see him again Elizabeth said

No, if you two were meant to be together then nothing will stand in your way Abigail said

The next morning

Morning mountain jack Gabe said

Morning Gabe, by the way, thank you for all your help last Saturday night you're going to make some young lady very happy one day jack said

Oh I already know who it is I knew from the moment I laid eyes on her Gabe said

Well you may surprise yourself your first love is rarely your last jack said

I know you think I'm foolish for knowing who I'm going to marry being I'm so young but sometimes it happens sometimes you see a girl and your whole future is clear as a bell Gabe said

That afternoon at the saloon

Jack Elizabeth said

I'm not going to do it I am not leaving Valley SpringJack said

Wait but O'Reilly already here they're not going to station two officers in this sleepy little town Elizabeth said

I don't know what they're going to do but I am going to put in an official appeal to stay jack said

But that could mean... Elizabeth said

I know Elizabeth I know that the risks are with my superiors and I'm willing to take them for you what jack said

Jack I can't let you do that Elizabeth said

No see this is what I want jack said

But I can't be the person who keeps you from following your dreams I can't you'd only end up resenting me jack said

Elizabeth then is not true jack

You may not think so now but you will the same way that I could never forgive my parents if they'd kept me from coming out west in pursuit of my dreams jack I am so sorry you have to do this you have to go I know it in my heart and so do you Elizabeth said

The next day

Joe Joe is that you? Nathaniel said

No, Nathaniel, it's me you're burning up Julie said

Did you bring some medicine Nathaniel said

No not for this you might have some kind of infection Julie said

I'm so tired I just want to sleep Nathaniel said

No no, we need to get you to a doctor I have to get to Valley Springwhile you're still conscious Julie said

No No Julie I can't Nathaniel said

Meanwhile in another part of the Forest

Nate must've run off with the money for himself psi tolls said

You better shut your mouth or I'll tell him you were talking like that joe tolls said

You do that Pie tolls said

He must be in trouble and we're gonna find him hell or high water joe said

Meanwhile in town

Before I leave I've left a file for you on some safety violations at the mine you should really look into jack said

I will Thomas said

Also, Abigail Stanton, she can be an ally to you she's been a confidente to me in the matter jack said

Understood you have a safe journey now jack Thomas said

Keep this town safe Thomas jack said

I'll be sure to keep her safe too Thomas said

Thank you jack said

That Earle night at the cafe

Abigail Elizabeth help Julie said

Julie Abigail said

He's bleeding quite badly Julie said

Sir can you hear me Abigail said

His name is Nathaniel Julie said

I've given him a sedative just let him rest the doctor said

He's going to be all right Julie said

It'll be touch and go he has sepsis lead poisoning the doctor said

From the bullet Abigail said

Yes I'll be back in the morning to see how he's doing if he gets worse during the night come for me the doctor said

Yes, of course, thank you, doctor, Abigail said

This isn't adding up where is this hunting partner of his Elizabeth said

Well I don't know I found him in the forest he was delirious I barely got his name out him Julie said

But he was able to tell you he was injured in a hunting accident Elizabeth said

Yes that's all he said you don't, believe me, Julie said

Well you have to admit something doesn't seem right about this young man Abigail said

I hope he doesn't turn out to be trouble Elizabeth said

Jack will save us he's the hero of this story Julie said

It's not a story it's real life it's real life with consequences and heartbreak Elizabeth said

What is it sister Julie said

Jack's gone he took a new post he left this morning Elizabeth said

No Julie said

The next morning at the schools

RIP whimpers softly

Jack didn't leave you he left to pursue his dream he wants to save lives and round up bad guys and keep the word safe it's noble work and I for one am proud to know him if it's meant to be he'll come back to us if he survives and doesn't meet anyone else stop whimpering missing him this much is just plain selfish Elizabeth said

Constables jack said

Officer can I ask you which direction you're coming from constable Sam said

Uh west of here Valley Springjack said

We're looking for a group of outlaws robbed a series of banks and trains constable Sam said

Ah The tolls gang jack said

Yeah constable Sam said

I've heard of 'em never crosses paths though jack said

Where are you headed constable 2 said

Cape Fullerton I'm being reassigned heading to my new post who knew maybe joining you on the tolls pursuit before long jack said

You any relation to Billy Thornton constable Sam said

Yeah I'm his son jack Jack said

Yeah I saw the resemblance I was with him in the old day's constable Sam said

What direction was the gang headed jack said

We're not sure we got units spread out in all directions constable Sam said

For all we know tolls could be dead security guard from the last bank they hit thinks he may have winged him constable 3 said

Yeah well if he didn't tolls nowhere near here constable 2 said

Meanwhile at Abigail's house

Oh you're up Julie said

I'm not hungry Nathaniel said

I'm going to clean you up and make you presentable well I've seen my father save and I've seen people cut hair how hard can it be Julie said

Okay clean me up I'll look like a real gentleman for you Nathaniel said

Everyone deserves a fresh start a new beginning to new future filled with new possibilities Julie said

How will I ever repay your kindness Nathaniel said

By turning your life around by becoming the man you were mean to be Julie said

That is my intention with your encouragement I will be that man don't worry I trust you Nathaniel said

It's one thing to not meet up at the meet spot Pie tolls said

Maybe the Mounties got him psi tolls said

No not Nathaniel he'd never let them take him alive we gotta keep searching joe tolls said

Yeah well I ain't stopping he's got Our money and people are gonna start dying if I get cheated out of my share Pie tolls said

Meanwhile at school

Boys and girls today we're going to learn about inertia is the stubbornness of a physical object to change its motion all right here I have two eggs one is fresh and the other is hard-boiled why do you think one egg stopped and the other one is still spinning Elizabeth said

Magic Emily said

Actually, Emily, it isn't magic but sometimes science can be so wonderful and amazing that it feels like magic the reason why one egg has stopped and the other is still spinning is that the fresh egg is still liquid inside and the liquid keeps moving because of the law of inertia an object in motion tends to stay in motion and an object at rest usually stays at rest Elizabeth said

I think rip is an object at rest a boy said

( As rip barks )

I think he just misses Mountie jack Emily said

Yes I'm sure he does we all miss people when they go away but is a different subject let's all take out our science journal

(Dear Elizabeth as promised I am writing to you I hope this finds you well the trip so far has been very interesting and exciting I met some fellow Mountie earlier today who are on the hunt for a group of dangerous bank robbery I hope to join their search soon how are things in Valley SpringI hope rip isn't being too much trouble) jack said

Back in Valley spring

Good afternoon gentlemen Abigail said

Mrs. Sutton Richardson said

I have a delivery for Martin Abigail said

Oh he's out at the mine ma'am don't know when he'll be back Richardson said

Oh well I need to drop off his portion of last weeks profits from the cafe Abigail said

I can take that for you ma'am Richardson said

Well I would like to leave it directly on his desk if you don't mind it's our agreement and I would also like to leave him some muffins and write a little note of gratitude Abigail said

A few minutes later

What's taking her so long I'd better check on her you just about through there Mrs Sutton Richardson said

Oh I am now thank you, Abigail said

Meanwhile at Abigail's house

Time for breakfast I hope you're finally hungry Julie said

You'll make somebody a fine wife someday Nathaniel said

I hope to Julie said

Miss Thatcher, I heard we had a visitation in town I wanted to come by and say hello Thomas said

Constable mighty thought of you Nathaniel said

Constable, I should have brought up some extra breakfast Julie said

Oh no need I've already eaten I'm just here to see what we can do to help our friend find his way back home Thomas said

Nathaniel milk Nathaniel said

Nathaniel Thomas said

Well I appreciate the offer but I'll be my way as soon as I'm strong enough to ride Nathaniel said

How's that injury of yours Thomas said

Almost healed Nathaniel said

Gunshot wound I hear how did that happen Thomas said

I was us tracking a large buck through some very thick brush my friend was tracking him from a distance too must've shot at the buck and grazed me instead I blacked out and when I came to this pretty lady was there like an angel Nathaniel said

Your friend just left you there Thomas said

Don't think he realizes I got injured Nathaniel said

Where's home Thomas said

About 20 miles south of falls creek a little lumber town my people are in logging Nathaniel said

Well you let me know if there's anything I can do to help Thomas said

Thank you, constable Nathaniel said

(Kids chattering) (Elizabeth chuckling)

How are you holding up Elizabeth Abigail said

I'm wonderful Elizabeth said

We both know that's not true but you did the right thing by telling him to follow his dream Abigail said

I know you're right it just feels... Elizabeth said

I know I'm concerned about that young man your sister found in the woods Abigail said

I'm worried to she knows nothing about him but she's taken such a personal interest Elizabeth said

I ask constable O'Reilly to pay him a visit Abigail said

Is the constable worried that he's dangerous Elizabeth said

Oh I'm not saying that I just want to send a message loud and clear that we intend to keep our town safe and secure Abigail said

I'm afraid Julie sees all of life as a romance novel with her cast as the heroine Elizabeth said

She's young she'll learn Abigail said

Perfect neat and tidy just the way I like it now people will know what we sell here good afternoon constable how's Valley Springtreating you Ned said

I need to send a telegram since they haven't fixed the telephones yet We May have a big problem on our hands Thomas said

Right Away Ned said

Good afternoon Mrs. Sutton Martin said

Oh good afternoon Mr. Gowen Abigail said

I wanted to come by and think you for your delivery this morning Martin said

Oh you're welcome Abigail said

You brought pastries and I had to ask myself why Martin said

I was just being neighborly Abigail

You sure that's all it is Martin said

I can't think of another reason Abigail said

Perhaps you were hoping to see me Martin said

As I've said before Mr. Gowen, if you're attempting to be flirtions with me it is neither welcome or appreciated Abigail said

I guess you're right We are simply business partners but perhaps over time we could become friends Martin said

I doubt it but there's certainly no reason we can't be civil Abigail said

Mr. Richardson how long was Mrs. Sutton alone in my office this morning Martin said

About five minutes sir Richardson said

You're being civil does that include stealing the file from my office that you have hidden underneath your red tablecloths Martin said

I know what you did Abigail said

That file is my property and I'll be needing it back Martin said

You murdered my son and my husband you murdered half the man in this Town Abigail said

Mr. Richardson would you please wait for me outside Martin said

Yes sir Richardson said

Those papers prove nothing Martin said

It's evidence Abigail said

Evidence of what Martin said

Men Died on your watch it proves you could have done more to keep them safe Abigail said

Let me give you a little something to gnaw on Mrs. Sutton your husband whom you so cavalierly accuses me of killing was my right-hand man he was in charge of operations in the mine so if corners were cut or safety measures were not met how do you know that he was not responsible for that? how do you know that he was not responsible for the death of your son? For all of the deaths? Do you want that out in the open? Do you want the whole town to know? What happened then? Good afternoon Mrs. Sutton Martin said

The next morning

Morning Mountie jack said

Morning office Mountie 1 said

You uh one of the units after the tolls gang jack said

Yeah we're out of pine springs Mountie 1 said

Ah thought so never seen so many red serge jackets and office in the span of a few days but I'd be surprised if he's still around these parts jack said

I'm not so sure about that Mountie 2 said

Why's that? jack said

We found his house 24 hours ago roaming through the forest west of here Mountie 2 said

What makes you so sure it's his jack said

The blood he was wounded in his last robbery Mountie 2 said

I heard what are you doing all the way out here if you found the horseback there jack said

Did a thorough search of the area couldn't find hide nor hair figured tolls left his horse there to throw us off his trail Mountie 1 said

Where exactly was this jack said

Just outside of a little mining town about a days ride from here place Valley SpringMountie 1 said

Hyah jack said

Where are you going Mountie 1 said

Meanwhile in the town

What are you doing sorry I didn't mean to startle you Julie said

I've imposed long enough Nathaniel said

You're going to leave without saying goodbye Julie said

Only long enough to get myself put together get settled in a new life one you could be proud to be a part of Nathaniel said

Nathaniel, you don't know how much it means to hear you say that Julie said

I'm sorry that was presumptuous Nathaniel said

It's all right it was meant to happen Julie said

I'm trying to remember what happened to me it's all so confusing I lost a whole chunk of memory after I got fevered from that infection that cabin where you found me at how far is it Nathaniel said

Outside of town a few miles, Julie said

Could you point out the general direction I left my knapsack filled with my things there's a picture of my mother in that bag Nathaniel said

How sweet of course you can borrow my house I'll draw you a map Julie said

That'd be most kind Wait for me Nathaniel said

I will Julie said

Sometimes later that afternoon or early evening

Elizabeth you work too much Julie

I'm a teacher Julie I'm just grading paper and waiting for rip to wake up from his fifth nap that dog sleeps more than any animal I've ever met besides I'm just trying to keep busy Elizabeth said

I saw how he looked at you jack will be back I'm sure the bonds of love are not easily broken Julie said

Keep your voice down and love who said anything about love Elizabeth said

Well did you kiss him Julie said

Oh, course not I've only known him a short while since We recounted and a kiss is something that comes after courtship and ...Elizabeth said

You don't need to know someone a great while to share a kiss Julie said

What's going on with you? Elizabeth said

Whatever do you mean? Julie said

Stop those games what is it? Elizabeth said

Well if you must know I'm in love Julie said

Love Elizabeth said

Mmm mmm Julie said

What are you talking about you found a man in The woods and now you're talking about love? Elizabeth said

I know how my heart feels Julie said

Oh Julie Elizabeth said

No one's ever given him a chance I won't be another person to just turn my back on him Julie said

I can't believe what you're saying right now you don't even know this man Elizabeth said

You don't want me to be happy Julie said

Of course, I want you to be happy but this is absurd Elizabeth said

Why? Because he's not rich and educated Julie said

No, it has nothing to do with that this is about a man's character and integrity Elizabeth said

You always think I'm a foolish girl Julie said

Do you remember that man I had you look into for meBilal Elizabeth said

Mmm-hmm Julie said

Well he completely fooled me jack and I were at odds at the time and I thought this man and I might have a future together anyway he turned out to be a con artist who preyed on my emotions he didn't care about me he cared about the family fortune now all I care about is that you don't get taken advantage of and heartbreak the same way I did not every man has good intentions, Julie, what is it? Elizabeth said

I may not have told you Nathaniel's entire story Don't do this Julie said

We have to report him Elizabeth said

No, we most certainly do not Julie said

Well then I do Elizabeth said

It's his brother's gang. He had no choice he was orphaned when he was only five and his brother raising him and now all he wants is to become a better man and to share his life with me Julie said

Are you even listening to yourself? What kind of life would you have? That man is a criminal Elizabeth said

This why I didn't want to tell you your don't understand Nathaniel the way that I do how can you do this to me Julie said

To you-you may have put everyone in this town in danger Elizabeth said

Don't be so dramatic he's gone Elizabeth he can't hurt anyone if he's not here Julie said

I have to write constable O'Reilly a note and then you and I are going to go have a talk with Abigail Elizabeth said

Back at the saloon

Afternoon fellas what'll it be Bartender said

Whiskey all around Pie tolls said

You just passing through or are you here to work the mine Bartender said

The mine psi tolls said

The coal mine it's about all we have to offer by way of jobs in this town Mayor Silas said

That sounds like interesting work but actually we're just passing through we're looking for a friend who might've come through here joe tolls said

Well I'm the mayor and I tend to know all the important news of the day Vary few strange come to Valley SpringMayor Silas said

It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance Mr. Mayor joe tolls said

There was a man involved in a hunting accident Mayor Silas said

Shot Joe tolls said

I believe so he was mighty sick when he was found in the forest Mayor Silas said

This man where is he now we're hoping he's a friend of ours joe tolls said

Well last I heard he was staying over at Abigail cafe just across the street the ladies are nursing him back to health Mayor Silas said

Well we're mighty grateful for your help Mr. Mayor Pie tolls said

Don't mention it if you're hungry get Abigail to serve you her beef stew you'll be glad I recommended it Mayor Silas said

Thank you kindly Pie tolls said

At the cafe at sunset

Honestly, Julie Elizabeth said

I still don't see what you're getting so upset about the reason he was shot was because he was protecting someone else Julie said

That's just what he told you we're in trouble Elizabeth said

We don't know that Julie said

We need to find Thomas Abigail said

Good afternoon ladies joe tolls said

Good afternoon gentlemen is there something we can help you with Abigail said

We're looking for our friend we're told you might know where he is Pie tolls said

If you mean Nathaniel he's already gone Abigail said

Nathaniel do you hear that joe Pie tolls said

Gone where joe tolls said

Julie if you know where he went you tell them this minute Elizabeth said

He was shot and it him some time to think and he's not interested in a life of crime anymore you need to let your brother be Julie said

Brother Nate ain't got no brother joe tolls said

What Julie said

Tie those two up and take them upstairs joe tolls said

Wait no no no no no Elizabeth said

This one's gonna take us to find Nate joe tolls said

No, you can't take her she's my sister take me instead Elizabeth said

Elizabeth Abigail said

Tear this into strips and tie up the cook well take both the sisters then joe tolls said

Come on Pie tolls said

Meanwhile in woods

Giddyap Jack said

Muffled help Thomas said

Whoa jack said

Muffled help Thomas said

Thomas! Are you hurt Jack said

Just my pride Nate tolls he was holed up at the cafe I followed him and he ambushed me he tired me to my horse and spooked him Thomas said

Is Elizabeth okay jack said

I don't know jack we got to get back to town Thomas said

Yeah jack said

Meanwhile in a nather part of the woods

Hay Nate psi tolls said

I know you'd show up sooner or later I see you brought some friends take that instead tie them up I buried the loot somewhere out back before I got sick grab a shovel lets dig it up Nate said

Nathaniel, I don't understand Julie said

Julie don't speak to that man Elizabeth said

This isn't happening this isn't happening Julie said

Yes, Julie, this is happening this is real now it's time to grow up and see the world as it really is Elizabeth said

I'm so sorry Elizabeth I did this I put us in this danger we're gonna probably die here Julie said

They have no reason to kill us they'll probably just take their money and go Elizabeth said

Meanwhile in town at the cafe

Elizabeth Elizabeth jack said

Jack up here Thomas said

Are you okay jack said

Yes, Jack, I'm fine they took Elizabeth and Julie to find that Nathaniel Abigail said

Where jack said

I don't know but jack these men are ruthless Abigail said

You took Julie for a ride where did you go? jack said

I'll show you Thomas said

Be careful Abigail said

We need help jack Thomas said

I thought I know where we can find some jack said

Meanwhile at a cabin in the woods

I like your sister she's a real lady but you're a schoolteacher right I like schoolteacher Nate said

Get away from her Julie said

Or what Nate

I hate you Julie said

Well now you gone and hurt my feelings Nate said

The man who's courting my sister is a Mountie and he will come looking for her so you best leave before he finds that you took her because he'll... Julie said

Now you're wishing me ill here I thought you really cared about me I'm all broken-hearted Nate said

Nate tolls you and your men come outside with your hands up jack said

Jack, there's four of them and they're all armed Elizabeth said

Shut up psi tolls said

What are we gonna do now joe tolls said

Stop fretting there's only one Mountie one Mounties a joke against us Nate said

Come on Nate said

Elizabeth Julie said (as pie grams her)

I got your woman Mountie so I don't think we're gonna be taking any orders from you Nate said

There's a dozen Mountie in these woods and they got their rifles aimed at of you right now jack said

Nate, they're everywhere Pie said

So what they're Mounties they'll never fire as long as we have these women Nate said

You're right Nate so here's what we're gonna do easy I'm gonna take out my weapon and I'm gonna drop it now you let these women go and my men will do the same jack said

Soon as I do that I lose all my leverage so forget it Nate said

Tell your men to drop their weapons or my men start shooting jack said

Pet them down we got no choice it's a fake Nate said

That's right jack said

Jack, he has a knife Elizabeth said

Jack are you hurt Elizabeth said

No jack said

In the morning

At the cafe

I can't believe I was so stupid Julie said

He played on your innocence and goodness Abigail said

I was a fool I know that now I'll never let myself be that easily used again Julie said

Thank the lord we're all okay Elizabeth said

And thank the Lord for sending the Mounties Julie said

Yes Elizabeth said

He came back for you Julie said

Hmm he comes back for the town it's his job Elizabeth said

He didn't have to come back Julie said

Well he'll be escorting them to prison and then I'm sure he'll head to his new posting after that Elizabeth said

Thanks, Jack you know what you and O'Reilly did out there was very brave there's a lot of men trying to capture the bunch Sam said

We got lucky plus it's what we trained for jack said

Well I don't think that tablecloth maneuver was part of your training getting the hours in red to surround them like that was truly inspired you know you're gonna get your pick of assignments after this arrest mark your career well anyway I'm glad I was here to see it and I'm glad I'll get to deliver these men to justice with you because this is my last assignment yeah got a little cabin up in the mountains here I'm gonna be fishing and hunting till my last day thanks again Sam said

Sam if you could go back if you could do it all over again would you choose this life will living on the road and not setting down and having a family jack said

You can't go back that's not part of the deal Sam said

I guess it's the path we're chosen right jack said

You know I was at your father's funeral I remember thinking he was a truly rich man he got a good woman and a fine son to weep over him and remember him that's true wealth, Sam Said

Well he was a great father jack said

I only hope when I draw my last breath there's someone there who cares enough to feel that way about me okay let's go Sam said

Well you excuse me for a moment Julie said

Where are you going feel better Elizabeth said

Somewhat Julie said

I'll catch up with you Abigail jack said

Jack, I found a file actually I didn't find it I stole it from Gowen's office Abigail said

For the record I do not condone stealing but on a personal note I'm quite impressed Jack said

I think it's proof that corners were cut it's not clear who authorized the cuts or who implemented them my late husband might have even missed something Abigail said

And you fear he knew more about it then you thought he did jack said

But the truth is the truth no matter how it plays out and everyone in this town deserves to know what really happened Abigail said

I'll get in touch with an investigator I know in cape Fullerton and we'll see where this takes us jack said

Thank you jack, Abigail said

Your welcome jack said

Jack Elizabeth said

When I was out there and I thought that you were in trouble ... when I thought there was even a chance that you were in danger and I wasn't here... jack said

You can't be everywhere you saved all of us Elizabeth said

I want you to know that I had nothing on my mind but getting back to you jack said

Really Elizabeth said

I was so focused on doing my job doing what I was trained to do chasing bad guys look I don't know what's gonna happen next I don't know where I'm gonna be tomorrow but I don't want to regret not telling you what I was thinking what I was... what I am feeling I can't leave without telling you that... jack said

Yes Elizabeth said

I care I care that you're safe jack said

I'm good Elizabeth said

I have to go and escort these men to trial jack said

I understand Elizabeth said

There are forms to fill out and paperwork jack said

Oh course Elizabeth said

So I need to go jack said

I know Elizabeth said

I'll see you soon jack said

You Will Elizabeth said

That night at the cafe

Remember when we were little and I afraid of the monsters that lived under the bed Julie said

I remember well I agreed to stay up all night and keep a lookout for them Elizabeth said

The only reason I felt safe was because I trusted you to take care of me Julie said

I'm your big sister it was my job to protect you Elizabeth said

I always felt safe when you were there Julie said

You know as soon as you fell asleep I went to sleep too Elizabeth said

Really yes I guess that makes sense Julie said

It's been a long few days go to sleep now Elizabeth said

Thank you for taking care of me I should've listened to you I was a fool to believe that horrible man Julie said

We all make mistakes Elizabeth said

Thank you for being my big sister Julie said

Thank you for being my little sister Elizabeth said

Will you stay up and watch out for monsters Julie said

I will, I feel as though I've lived a year thesepast few days I've never felt so frightened in my life but my fear pales incomparison to how safe I felt in Jack's arms when he came to my rescue it makesme realize that sometimes we need heroes in our lives and sometimes for thepeople we love we actually have to become the hero Elizabeth said