Growing up McCullough
Recap… Matthew has just gotten chewed out by a very angry Captain Parmalee. He was ordered to have a written report on the Captain's desk by 8:00 am. So in a series of flashbacks we learn he has defied a direct order and gone undercover as a schoolboy in the town of Laredo, while most of the other Rangers are out or town. After eight days of school work and ranger work, Matt is about ready to give up when finally, he is invited into the gang.
Chapter 6: Texas Ranger on My Tail
Matt sits at a table writing; flashback continues...
Matthew was confused; the boys were acting as if they wanted nothing to do with him. He thought that Thursday had gone very well, so why the cold shoulder. He gathered his books and started out the door ready to find Mr. Franklin and explain that the whole mission was a failure. Just as he rounded the school house and started the long detour down Campbell street and then backtrack to the ranger's station, Herbert appeared and shoved a note into to his hand.
"And remember; don't tell nobody nothing!" he snapped then turned on his heels and disappeared into the bushes.
Matt watched the bushes for a minute, then smiled before stuffing the note into his pocket and trotted off; now in a hurry to get back finish his chores and supper and find a secluded place to read his note before getting the day's homework assignment out of the way.
Meanwhile Flint and the posse…
"Hold up men, I think I see something," called Flint as he stooped and looked at a bunch of muddy hoof prints. "Looks to me like they went into the stream here; traveled down about a quarter mile, and then came out over on your side," suggested Flint as he waded down and came out next to Bill. "What do you think Bill?"
"I think your right, and then they headed right back the way we came," said Bill.
"Shouldn't be too hard to pick up their trail, seeing as the leader is still riding a horse with only three shoes," looks like they're headed off that way," added Ty.
"Not much up that way. It'll be dark before long, maybe we can find their trail and make camp up around Fox canyon; get a fresh start come daybreak.," suggested sheriff Johnson.
"Sounds good to me, I'm wet and hungry let's get mounted and ride. Sheriff you lead the way," said Flint sloshing back across the stream next to Bill.
Meanwhile up at Fox canyon...
Four Boys sit with their backs against a fallen tree; feet and hands bound, as armed and desperate men talk around the camp fire.
"We should just saddle up and ride out. There's bound to be someone out looking for the four of them soon," said Wayne.
"I say when we ride; not you, and I say we keep em; they're our ticket passed that posse," growled an older man with a scruffy beard.
"Now, listen here, Pete', I signed on for a bank robbery; you didn't say nothing about kidnapping. Count me out," said a short stubby fella.
"Shut your trap. I don't like it much either, but what choice do we have; we can't just turn them loose and send them home. They would lead the posse right to us. It's too late to hit the trail tonight. Doug, hurry up with those beans?"
All four boys looked worriedly at each other.
"What are we gonna do? They're planning on keeping us here until morning. That means everyone at the ranch will know we're missing," said Kevin.
"I think we've got an even bigger problem. I heard one of them say something about a bank robbery; what if they decide to shoot us?" said Henry.
"They're not going to shoot us! The one with the beard said; we are they're ticket pass the posse. Which means we've got a bigger problem to worry about than bank robbers?" said Barney.
"A bigger problem? What could be bigger than being shot by a gang of bank robbers?' asked Mark with sarcastic snarl.
"Ah... that posse that after them, that's what!" smirked Barney in a loud whisper.
"They don't want us, so no need for them to worry us," said Mark, giving Barney a goofy look.
"Mark, it's just a hunch, but don't you think, that posse just might be made up of…Oh I don't know, Sheriff Johnson, Mr. Ty, Uncle Flint and My Pa…'' said Barney in a low growl so as the outlaws didn't hear.
Mark, Kevin, and Henry suddenly turned pale and faced each other, then stared in silence for a long while.
"Hey fellas I got a plan; maybe if we let them think we were kidnapped, maybe then no one will know that we came looking for that cat," suggested Barney.
Suddenly the wheels in Mark's brain started to turn. Barney just might be onto something.
Back at the Ranch...
Mary finally finished putting everyone to bed. Wearily she slumped down into the rocker on the back porch next to Charlie. "You didn't have to wait for me. I know that you have things to do yourself. I've kept you busy watching children all afternoon and half the night," said Mary letting a yawn escape her lips.
"Nonsense, and besides; I'm not waiting for you, I'm waiting with you. Won't neither of us sleep a wink, and you know it… not until those boys are back here save in their bunks where they belong," said Charlie trying not to let her hear the worry in his voice.
"I'm so worried, Charlie. Why haven't the men come back. You don't suppose that something has happened to them do you? What were they thinking, going off after that cat even after Flint and Bill both told them not too," fretted Mary close to tears.
"Now Mary, let's not borrow trouble, I'm sure that everyone is fine. It's just dark and hard to travel. They may have decided to camp for the night and get a fresh start in the morning," suggested Charlie, hoping that relieved her worry some.
"I know you're probably right, and as much as I want them home, I want them safe. How about a cup of coffee before we turn in? Even though I don't think I could sleep, I should lay down and rest a spell," suggested Mary.
"That's a good Idea. After our coffee, I'll just stretch out on the settee, and if anyone rides up, I'll be sure to call you," said Charlie, as he helped Mary to stand and followed her into the house.
Matt's flashback continues…
It's late Friday evening when he finally gets the chance to read Hebert's note…
Sorry we couldn't talk to you at school. He was watching…
Saturday: four am. Bring a bucket of paint and a brush, five good clunking rocks and a dozen eggs. Meet us behind Clawson's feed and seed keep out of sight in the tool shed until we get there! Don't let anyone follow you.
" Drat, it was too late to buy what he needed he have to borrow it from the ranger station. So much for sleeping in," thought Matt. Maybe he would turn in early instead right after he rounded up some paint and a brush, and a dozen eggs. He could get the rocks better in the light. Sounded like they were going to be up to some mischief tomorrow. He was sure glad that Mr. Franklin had agreed to fix it with the shopkeepers if he got caught.
Matt felt like his head had hardly hit the pillow, when he rolled over to check his watch; three o'clock! He had better get a move on. Shortly before four, armed with his load he slipped into the tool shed to find Jack already waiting.
"Here's what you have to do," when you're finished, meet Herbert behind the Cactus saloon; he's gonna take you to meet the boss," said Jack slipping him a piece of paper, then disappearing out the door.
Matt was to paint a message on the doors that said pay up or get out! Then splatter the rest of the paint and eggs all over the inside of the feed store. Then just before he left, he was to throw a rock through the front window and run; that would be Hebert's and Jack signal that he had finished the job. That all sounded like big trouble, but Matt had come this far he couldn't back out now. It didn't take long and the message was written in red on the grey doors and wall. He had just splashed the last of the paint on the feed sacks and was bouncing eggs off the walls when the door swung open.
"I knew it, I knew! It was just a matter of time and I would catch one of you hooligans, messing up my place. So, let's just see how you like spending some time down at the jail. Now March!" growled Mr. Clawson as he pointed a gun at Matt.
As nervous as he was, Matt swore that he heard snickering as he walked down the boardwalk on his way to jail.
"Who, put you up to this boy" snapped Mr. Clawson. Matt didn't want to blow his cover and so said nothing. "Not talking, huh! We'll just see about that when I get you to the sheriff," barked Mr. Clawson.
The sheriff's office was just across the street from the Ranger Station, and just as Mr. Clawson pushed Matt through the door, Captain Parmalee and the other Rangers were returning from Precious. They were just riding up to the hitching rail on the other side of the street.
"Looks like trouble, starting mighty early this morning, Joe. Why don't you go on over and let the sheriff know we're back and see if we can be of any service," said Captain Parmalee as the four Rangers stepped down from their horses.
"Yes sir, Captain," said Joe heading straight for the front door of the sheriff's office. He stopped short when he heard the commotion.
"I caught this here young scoundrel painting on my walls and splashing paint and splattering eggs everywhere. I want to know just what you're going to do about it," thundered Mr. Clawson.
"Simmer down there, Homer! First off let's see what the boy has to say for himself," said the sheriff as he stood and walked around to stand in front of Matthew. "Son; let's have your name. I don't believe I've seen you around here before."
"Spence; Matthew Spence, Sir, and my pa and I just moved here from out west," answered Matthew.
Joe near fell over the hitching rail in surprise; Spence my foot; that was young McCullough. He craned his neck to get a look at the youngster in question. Yep, even dressed in short britches and suspenders it was plain to see. Joe groaned to himself, "He's gone and disobeyed a direct order. Captain Parmalee is not going to like this."
"Matthew, is it; well son what have you have to say for yourself?" asked the sheriff.
Matt didn't know what to say so said nothing after a long silence the sheriff spoke. "Very well son, I'll just have to lock you up until I can get in touch with your father. Right this way. Empty your pockets there on the desk, before you step into the cell." As the door clanged shut, the sheriff turned to Mr. Clawson. "You go on back to your store make a list of the damages and as soon as I know something, I will get in touch with you."
"That's all you're gonna do? Why I'd a been better off if I had just took a stick to him," grumbled Mr. Clawson as he turned and stormed out the door.
Matt hung his head. Now what was he going to do? They were sure to miss him next door as soon as the breakfast bell rang. And just how was he going to come up with a father.
Then it happened; in walked Ranger Joe. Just as Matt was about to call out Joe spoke up. "Sheriff, can I speak to you for a minute… It's about your prisoner; young Matthew there," said Joe as he closed the door and approached the desk.
"Howdy there, Joe, I didn't know that you Rangers were back in town. You say you know something about young Matthew here, seems he has gone and vandalized the feed and seed, and he won't tell me a thing. Maybe you can help me locate his folks. Someone is going to have to pay the damages. Come sit down, I was just going to pour myself a fresh cup. Would you care to join me?"
Matt got really quiet and leaned on the bars to hear what was said.
"Thank you, sheriff. We just rode in; trails mighty hot and dusty, don't mind if I do. And, as to Matthew there, well it's sorta complicated. He well, he's one of our deputy rangers, and he's sorta been working undercover for us; trying to help us put a stop to all the pie snatching and malicious mischief that's been going on around town. I'm not sure just what's going on myself, but I'm sure if you will let me take him over to Captain Parmalee so he can report, then we can come back and square things with you and Mr. Clawson," said Joe grinning as he took a long sip of the fresh brew.
"Undercover you say? Well Joe, I'll take you word on that, and release him to you. But, just to keep things official, I'm going to need a report within twenty-four hours, or I'll have to bill the Rangers for the damages. You don't mind signing a release paper for me do ya?" asked the sheriff reaching into his desk for paper and pencil to draw up the documents.
"Why no, Sir, and I'll personally bring you that report just as soon as Captain Parmalee releases it. .In the mean time you won't blow our cover will you?"
"I reckon as I can keep quiet… let's just say that I released young Matthew to his brother, and that his father is due in by Friday next to settle on the damages. That should cover both of us and give Captain Parmalee time to review the facts. If you will just sign right here, I'll get my keys and release Matthew," said the sheriff sliding the paper across for Joe to sign.
Matt breathed a long sigh of relief. Joe was smoothing things over with the sheriff; maybe things were going to be okay after all.
"Alrighty Matthew, looks like lady luck is on your side this time," laughed the sheriff as he unlocked the door and swung it open.
"Thanks sheriff, I'm sorry for causing you trouble this morning," apologized Matthew.
"Come on little brother, let's get you home before they send out a search party," said Joe, snickering, as Matt walked past him to the door.
"Thanks, Joe, I didn't know how I was going to get out of that cell and back to work before you all got back," said Matt as they stepped out onto the porch.
"Don't thank me yet. I understand, but Captain Parmalee gave you a direct order, which you disobeyed. I wouldn't want to be in your shoes," said Joe clapping Matt on the back. "You best get yourself looking more like a ranger; dressed like that he just might mistake you for a youngster and take a strap to your short britches; you do like right convincing."
Matt blushed and glance around to see Herbert and Jack heading down the street right for him.
"If you rangers, plan on taking me to Pa, you'll have to catch me first," he shouted before dashing off down the street, right past his to classmates.
Joe gave a wide eyed look and took out after him. "You've done it now kid; you've got a Texas Ranger on you trail. If you know what's good for you; you will stop right now and turn yourself in," shouted Joe.
As Matt tried to climb the board fence at the back of the alley, Joe lunged forward and hauled him to the ground. Joe felt his ankle pop, "McCullough, you better start explaining and explaining fast!" growled Joe as he grabbed hold of Matt's arm and swung him around to face him.
"Didn't want to blow my cover. Those fellas out front are classmates; make it look good," panted Matt, in a low whisper for only Joe to hear.
"Got it! Alright, son, that will be enough. I'm taking you in one way or another. You can wise up and walk, or I can hog tie you and toss you over my shoulder, what will it be?" growled Joe angrily.
"I'll walk, but don't be surprised if I forget the way home," smarted Matt; an act for the gathering crowded, which included Herbert and Jack, to hear.
"Gonna be hard headed are you? I'll just haul you over to ranger headquarters and lock you up there until your Pa comes looking for you, now move!" growled Joe, grabbing a fist full of his shirt collar and fairly dragging him along.
Matt kicked Joe's foot as he tried to pull away, as they neared the front of the ranger's station,. Joe rewarded his efforts and added to the charade, by stopping in the middle of the street spinning him to the side, and delivered a resounding whack to the seat of his britches. Matthew couldn't help but notice that Jack and Herbert were once again laughing
"Ouch" yelled Matt. You don't have to make it look that real, mumbled Matt deciding he had fought enough and would walk the rest of the way without contest.
The flashback ends
Matt is at a desk finishing the last sentence of the report. Ranger Joe sprained his ankle chasing me from the sheriff's office, before dragging me into your office.
"Have you finished that report, McCullough?" said Reese as he came through the door.
"Yes sir, just finished it," answered Matthew.
"Good. Captain, says to put on your knickers and them lace ups you've been wearing and bring the report to his office, on the double," said Reese as he landed on his bunk and stretched out.
"Did he really say I had to wear the knickers; I look so ridiculous?" asked Matt.
"Afraid so, Cap't said something about Joe taking you to see your Pa in the morning," answered Reese.
"Golly is he kicking me out of the Rangers; isn't he even going to read my report?"
"Don't rightly know…All I can tell you is that, him and Joe have been talking all afternoon, and you better hustle. You don't want to rile him more than he is right now," explained Reese.
Matt groaned as he knelt next to his bed and fished out the undercover outfit. His face turned red just thinking about Reese seeing him in the short britches.
Reese stretched out and watch the transformation. "Dang, you do make a pretty convincing kid," laughed Reese.
"Thanks I think," said Matt grabbing his report and heading out the door.
~oOo~
Matthew stood nervously at the front door of the Captain's office hoping someone would answer his knock before anyone else saw the way he was dressed.
"Come in!" thundered the Captain from inside.
Matthew swallowed a lump and proceeded inside. "You wanted to see me, Sir," he said coming to stand at attention in front of the desk after laying the report before the Captain.
"Yes, McCullough, I did. Sit down," instructed the Captain, picking up the report to hide the smile that was trying to flood his face.
Matthew sat down and began to wring his hands, as he watched the Captain's fingers drumming on the desk as he read. After what seemed like an eternity, Captain Parmalee dropped the paper on the desk and looked squarely into Matthew' eyes. "Young man, you have committed a serious offense in disobeying a direct order and taking it upon yourself to go undercover. An offense for which you could be sent home," Captain Parmalee stopped and let his words sink in. "That being said; Ranger Joe Riley, the sheriff and I have been giving the matter some serious consideration. I have a few questions that need answered before we proceed any further," continued Captain Parmalee. "Question one; Do you wish to continue in the Ranger Program?"
"Yes Sir, very much, Sir," Matthew quickly answered.
"Very well. Secondly, do you understand that to maintain order and control in the Rangers we must expect every ranger to follow orders?" Explained the captain in a very unforgiving tone.
"Yes, Sir, I do," answered Matthew.
"Then, I trust that you understand that there will be consequences for disregarding a direct order?"
"Yes, Sir, I understand," he answered beginning to feel like a scolded schoolboy.
"Riley seems to think that we could be of service to the citizen of Laredo by letting you remain under cover…"
Matthew smiled.
"Wipe that smile off your face! In order for us to proceed there are a few conditions you may not be so eager to agree too," roared the Captain with a very stern look.
"I'm sorry, Sir, but I am ready and willing to finish what I started, under any conditions, Sir."
"Good man, now here's the plan. First off we will have to send a wire explaining that you are on a case, delaying you return home. Secondly; and this one is most important; I am in complete control and you will follow my orders to the letter, is that clear?" explained Parmalee in a commanding voice.
"Yes Sir," said Matthew once more.
"I asked you here tonight dressed in that school boy get up of yours because Mr. Clawson and half the town; thanks to your little performance this morning, expect a schoolboy to be held accountable for his behavior. We've agreed that in order for this to work and not to blow your cover we have to make thing seem as real as possible. So you will spend tonight locked up here in the cell in my office. Then in the morning, Riley will escort you out to your father's place, where you will face the consequences of your actions. Thus the slate will be cleared for you to return to school on Monday and continue your observations. Any questions?"
"Just one, Sir, my Pa?" asked Matthew confused and just a little concerned at the implications.
"You let me worry about that son, now into the cell! Joe will be over later with some supper for you," said Captain Parmalee as he closed and locked the cell door; giving into a fit of laughter as he went out the office door. He had to admit, the boy looked convincing.
TBC