NCIS
The Western Frontier
Chapter two
Deputy Sheriff Anthony DiNozzo is taken back at the sight of an US Marshall in his office.
"Can I help you?" He asks.
"Yeah. Where's the sheriff?" he asks. The stranger is dressed like any typical man from the 1880's. But he has a black ten-gallon hat and a black trench coat on.
"He's over in Lincoln City for some sort of big meeting. Why'da ask?"
"Because."
"Because why?" Tony asks as his prisoner fidgets with her cuffs.
"I have business with him." Gibbs answers.
The marshal notices the unlikely woman wearing slacks and boots and seems to have a temper.
"What's with this one?" he asks.
"Local trouble. None of your concern."
"I see." as Gibbs goes to leave. "I'll be in town for awhile. I waiting for a wanted man. He was last seen coming this way."
"I can't stop you. But this is my town so I'd warn you about stirring up trouble."
"If there's trouble you'll be the last to know." as Gibbs leaves.
"Well. I see you know how to talk your way into a hanging. Interfering with the US marshals office will get you just that."
Taken back tony asks his prisoner, "And who's concern is it of yours. The only place you be seeing is the inside of my cell."
She laughs at the primitive conditions of the town, "One cell. We I'll be. Do you have turn maid service and-"
"This isn't one of them fancy hotels in Washington City ma'am. This is the frontier of our great nation. I suggest you get accustomed to that."
"Ah, a northerner. I figured as much." she says sarcastically.
"What?" he responds.
"You where on the northern side during the war weren't you?" she asks.
"Yeah. Why?"
"Never mind." she replies.
--
On her ranch Jennifer watches her work hands tend to the garden and fields. Most are former slaves and many are welcome to come join their fellow country men.
She hears the hoof stomps of many horses coming toward her home. She gets up and looks out and about eight men come out and stop near her front gate.
The lead man and his partner unmount and walk toward her. The leader is medium height and is of French descent. His assistant has a distinct English accent and walks with a cane.
"Bonjour, Madam." the rustler greats.
"What do you want?" she asks plainly.
"You have received our communique regarding the transfer of this property to our corporation."
"I know of any such thing. And if I where you I'd get out of here before Rebeka takes you down with her shotgun."
She point to the barn, where a young African woman is aiming a double barrel shotgun at them.
"Very well! I will take this to the local authorities1 they will have you in jail by sunset."
"I very much doubt that!" she responds pulling out her six shooter.
"We will go!" he announces to his posse. They mount and trot off leaving Jenny with a new problem. Will the deputy take her side or arrest her.
--