Telegrams. 5th Story in the Alexandra Series.
Summary: You wanted to know the why, the when and the how Alexandra came about. Well here it is. Adam receives a wire from San Francisco. He embarks on a journey with Alexandra to bring Katherine home one way or another. He recalls the events of the past along the way.
Disclaimer: I do not own Bonanza, or any of its characters. David Dortort and Fred Hamilton created them and played with them for 14 years. The series is owned by NBC.
Recap… Jai has been found and lies unconscious at saint Marys. Maverick is with her. Adam Cartwright, Alexandra and Samantha Crawford have returned to the Empire House to rest. Katherine, Alexandra mother, is also recuperating at Saint Mary's after a pleasant day with Alexandra.
Chapter 23: Angels In Our Midst.
After leaving Alexandra sleeping and with one last kiss to her curly head, Adam returned to the sitting room of his suite. He left the door slightly ajar, as he promised, and moved to the small table near the settee and poured himself a shot of bourbon from the decanter ; complimentary of The Empire House. It was a lovely night, the breeze coming in through the window slightly muffled the mellow nightly sounds of the street below. He stood and downed the small shot, finding the smooth liquid warm and calming. He poured another, before heading over to the other bedroom, where Samantha was sleeping. He cracked the door slightly, wishing to check on the young women, who had had a stressful day filled with worry. He heard her purring in sleep, and smiled, relieved that the worst of all their journeys was over.
Satisfied that all was well, Adam turned down the wall lamps, just enough so that there was a warm soft glow to the room. He returned to the settee and sat his drink down on the small side table next to it and beside Katherine's journals. Adam plopped down onto the thick and comfortable cushions, sighing as the pillows absorbed the brunt of his aching body. He pushed his boots off one at a time using his toes, before making a cosy bed with the cushions and throw. He leant back against the cushions and swung his legs up. Then reached for one of Katherine's journals and placed it on his lap. He grabbed his glass, sipped the beverage this time, and started flipping through pages…
Tuesday 26 February 1850
Dear Diary
We're leaving. I'm so relieved. I was so scared at first when I found out I was having a baby. It's Mah baby. I'm sick of all the options, the scheming and the lies, jist so mah baby can have the life, that would be acceptable to this place and the judgemental arrogant selfish people around here. Papa was trying ta fix me up with some respectable southern gentlemen; ones that were all sweet talking but underneath… well, I'm not so sure. Momma says ta trust my instincts. Though, I'm wondering ifin I've still got Adam stuck in mah head and mah heart. And the smirky, sly looks that some men throw ma way remind me too much of Frank Hallett, just thinkin' on him gives me goose bumps. Course they're not going to be interested in me now, anyway's.
Monica, papa's wife desperately wants a child of her own, and offered to raise the child as hers and papa's, they'd take me in too, but well…I ain't so shure its that's best thing to do. They really want it ta be a girl; I jist want it ta be healthy. A boy would get all the Adelle's family up in arms; a threat ta the family dynasty ifin people was ta know of my baby's parentage, and of course they don't want a boy child having a claim to any of their fortune. Anyway, I don't know that I want thems that think like that, oughtn't be raising mah baby boy or mah baby girl. I don't won't no son of mine growing up believing it's his right ta own another person, including women, and I don't want my baby girl growing up having her spirit broken, her dreams subdued, thinking she has ta be a proper lady ta be a good person. Mah baby might be given a lot of lovely things ifin he or she was to live with them; like never go hungry and be well looked after, but I want her or he loved for who they are.
Molly don't like here either. There's people who know who she is; who her momma was and her papa, even though she has Momma's name. Some of the other slaves resent her too. Papa's wife, Monica hates her. Fact is, Molly don't feel safe. Momma, I and Molly are leaving tomorrow. We're going to join Grandfather Williams Carnival. That should be fun.
Adam flipped the pages of the journal and came across a daguerreotype of Katherine and Alexandra. He traced around the image of the young mother and her little girl. Alexandra looked to be about two years old, the date August 1851 written on the back confirmed that. Alexandra looked like a little angel as she sat on her mother's knee in front of a canvas backdrop with De Foes Carnival written in huge letters. Both were dressed casually, in the same pretty checked material; their dresses trimmed with lace collars and white ribbons ties around their waist. Katherine's long blonde curls were tied back at the nape of the neck, with a few stray ringlets framing her face. Alexandra's short blonde curls surrounded her cherub face like a halo, her cheeky grin barely supressed, with the demands of stillness the photographer would have needed.
Adam was very grateful for the memento; not having known his child at this age, and looking very much like a petite little girl. It wasn't until you notice her feet, did one recognise a trait of the Alexandra they all knew today. She had one shoe missing. Adam gave a small chuckle; not surprised at all. The other boot was fixed tight, its tiny ten buttons firmly fastened. He imagined the wrestling that must have taken place to get that one shoe on and then supposing the compromise of forgoing any further struggle with putting on the other boot; perhaps hoping that no one would notice. Katherine didn't look much older than he had remembered her, which was hardly surprising; she would have been barely twenty years old. Not much older than Joe was now. He wondered how she coped with a lively toddler that Adam assumed Alexandra must have been.
Adam turned a few pages more and came across another entry. He smiled as he read.
July 12 1853
Papa's carnival- Jefferson City
We arrived today at four in the afternoon. The crew had us all set up by supper and we toasted our safe journey and arrival here. Alexandra is finally asleep after a busy day. She loves the excitement of arriving to a new paddock in a new town and watching her large spacious canvas home reappear. The Carnie folk adore her and make a real show of the set up. Grandfather William sits with her high on Bertha's back as he directs the reconstruction and assemblage. Alex claps her hands as each new tent rises from the ground and bursts its colored strips and buntings against the horizon. We are all very happy here.
Alexandra is a month passed her fourth birthday and I'm wondering where my sweet little baby disappeared to. Well not completely disappeared; she is still such a sweet little girl; full of love and wonder, but so busy and into mischief. She could also talk off the leg of a chair as grandfather would say. I was looking forward to the time when her toddler and wondering ways would cease, so I could relax and not go into an absolute panic when she'd go missing. I remember I'd have no more than to take my eyes of her for ten seconds and she'd been gone. I'd find her in with the horses sitting underneath their girths; their long noses drooping between their front long legs, as she scratched their velvety noses singing songs to them. The horses are pretty well handled, but it still frightened me. I'd have to move real slow and drag her by her bottom under the corral fences. But, now she has graduated to more dangerous pursuits with the elephants; especially in the hot months, where I can find her sitting in their wide tubs bathing as Big Bertha squirts her and Little Bombay. I'm sure the baby elephant thinks that Alexandra is his sibling.
Then, last week, there was the time we couldn't find her for almost an hour. This month, she's taking a liking to the almost life size rag dolls that line the shelves of the gaming stalls. Gabriella "The Bearded Lady' makes them as the big prizes. Each one of them represent the top bills of the big tent. So there are lion tamers and horseback riders, ballerinas and trapeze artists. Of course nobody hardly ever wins one. Most of the time, the players are lucky to walk away with a cup and ball, or a set of loud wooden hand clappers. Gabriella had been working on her latest creation; an effigy of Laura; Thumbelina, the smallest girl in the world. Laura had left one of her old costumes for Gabriella to use and unbeknown to anyone, Alexandra decided to help herself to the outfit and Laura's make up. Then, nobody had noticed when she had made her way to the shooting game tent, while jimmy was on his break. She climbed onto the shelf and lined up with the other dolls there. Jimmy never noticed, when he'd returned; too busy rousting a game out of a young man with his girl by his side. Poor Jimmy nearly jumped out of his skin when the gent, trying to impress his girl, demanded one of the cute little dolls for a prize. The gent hadn't made the score for a doll, but insisted he deserved the prize and grabbed for the nearest doll. Thank goodness it wasn't Alexandra; however, it was as she expressed later; one of her dearest friends.
"Hey you can't have her," she yelled and jumped up and had a tug of war with the mark. Jimmy nearly had a heart attack and screamed like a girl, as did the young man. "She's mah bestest friend and she don't like you, sides yer got yer own gal," warned Alexandra.
Thank goodness the crowd watching found it hilarious, as did his gal. Jimmy grabbed for Alexandra and the doll, but not before she bit the young man on the hand. He yelped and let go of her best friend. "Hey she bit me," he cried. "Who's in charge around here. I wanna speak to them."
Jimmy handed over the doll, as he secured Alexandra to his hip, effectively keeping her out of the way. With that, Alexandra cried and cried, wailing all the time. "Yer can't take her mister, yer can't. She's mah friend. She's a dancer and yer jist can't lock her up in any old place. She has ta dance and sing. She won't like living anywhere else but tha carnival, she's a star and she belongs here. Please don't take her."
"I'll look after her really well," said the man's girl, "Promise."
"Ya won't love her like I do. Yer can't take her, she'll be so lonely for me and mah momma and all us folk." Alexandra turned her head around and stared Jimmy in the eyes. "Jimmy yer a low down rotten skunk; ya can't let them take her. Sides, they ain't supposed ta win…"
"Shhh shhh…" said Jimmy, thinking that Alexandra was going to give his game away and cause a riot at the stalls. "They won the doll fair and square, Alexandra."
"Yeah, kid; we was lucky we didn't win you," laughed the man.
Alexandra misunderstood and panic arose in her heart. "Ya can't win me…Ya didn't win me… Yer can't take me away; yer can't. Jimmy give them one of the cup and ball games instead," Alexandra sobbed. "Po-leese mister, I wanna stay here," she begged.
The crowd stared jeering at the man, "Leave the little girl alone yer big blow hard… Go show off somewhere else, yer bully… Leave the little girl alone and give her back her doll, too," they yelled.
The crowd got louder, and the man and his girl blushed with embarrassment. "I didn't mean nothing by it. I jist wanted a nice prize for my gal. Hey kid, honest I wouldn't take you; I was only joshin'. Here take yer doll back. They are mighty fine dolls, but I wouldn't take your favourite from you."
Alexandra gladly grabbed her doll, still sobbing, but somewhat relieved, as she held tight to her dolls, while Jimmy held her just as tight. "Here," said Jimmy handing over one of the stuffed lions. "I'd give you one of the cute little stuffed cubs, but Alexandra 's probably gonna argue that they ain't been weaned yet."
"That's true!" said Alexandra," what's weaned mean?" She asked looking at Jimmy.
"It means they still drink milk from their momma."
"Oh…But, Jimmy, ifin ya give the momma away, they's won't have any of the milk they need from her," sniffed Alex.
"No Alexandra that's the daddy lion," assured Jimmy trying to appease her.
"Don't they drink milk from their daddy?" she asked sincerely.
"No; only the momma."
"Oh then that's alright…Ya can have the daddy lion, mister. Momma lions are the mostest important while her cubs are real little," smiled Alex.
The man handed over his prize to the young woman standing next to him. She grinned with mirth at the whole situation, before turning to Alexandra. "Thank you Alexandra, I promise to take good care of him too."
"Oh ya won't hafta too much, but let me warn ya he has a mighty roar and can bite yer head off ifin yer don't be careful. You best snuggle up ta yer friend there," said the little girl pointing to the gent that had won the game.
"I like that idea, Alexandra," winked the young girls' beau.
The crowd let out a barrage of belly laughs and cheers and kept laughing as they dispersed.
Adam again chuckled and could well imagine the scenario, and how funny it would be. Alexandra could get herself into some mischief, and even though he could seem to be so very stern or angry with her, most of the time he had to admit; the kid was funny. Still quietly chuckling to himself he read on.
Jimmy closed up his gamming tent and returned Alexandra to us, and then told the whole story. The Carnie folk laughed so much, they nearly bought the big top down. I had to admit it was funny, but Grandpa William, momma and Molly said I should have punished her; that she couldn't just keep wandering off, or biting people and if I didn't do something soon, it would be too late. Jimmy was also mad that she had caused a ruckus and gave up his secrets to his games: not that he would out an out cheat one of the punters, he didn't make a mark like some of the other gamers did, but his shooting gallery was a hard game, and it wasn't easy to win one of the top prizes.
Fact is though, I jist didn't have the heart to punish Alexandra. She just didn't understand; she's only four years old. I'm sure she's learnt her lesson. Besides, it was hard to punish her when the Carnie folk were all laughing. At least my little girl wasn't traumatised by it. Poor little tyke would have been very confused.
Adam shook his head, he doubted very much that Alexandra would have been confused, but he was sure that everybody else probably ended up that way. He flipped to another page finding a journal entry for the year. This time the carnival had stopped in a small town close to the Utah Territory's boarder.
Thursday August 25th 1853
Oh no, Papa Pater's coming. I don't know what to do. I'm sure he's bringing his wife, Monica. I don't trust her at all. Why are they coming anyway? Perhaps I shouldn't stay to find out…
Along with the journal entry was a telegram and a newspaper article. Both which seemed to pertain to the entry and the beginning of another stage of Alexandra's and Katherine's life. He read the telegram.
Overland Telegraph Company...
To: Katherine Defoe
Defoe's Grande Carnivale
Arriving in Guthrie Monday to visit with you and my grandchild stop have proposition that may benefit you both stop
Pater Ardelle
Batesville Arkansas
Adam wondered how Katherine's father, Pater Ardelle, found out where the carnival had been, though it would not have been all that difficult. The newspaper article obviously made that a lot easier "3ft Ring Master And Her Trusty Elephant Save The School House." There below the headline was a cartoon of a small child dressed in a top hat riding atop of an elephant as they extinguished a small school house on fire; it's screaming children flailing from the windows. But, the telegram suggested that Katherine's father was once again interested in his daughter and grandchild. Adam could well imagine Katherine feeling threatened by the upcoming visit.
Adam read the brief newspaper article.
The town elders today met to deliver their gratitude to William Defoe and his high top carnival for saving the school house from total destruction after it caught fire at midday yesterday. The day was fraught with chaos, as De Foe's grandchild on top of the carnivals main attraction, Bertha the Elephant, made their way down the Main Street and onto the school yard to entertain a group of school children. Within half an hour of the visit, Mr Connell, the school's new master, turned to find smoke billowing from the front porch of the school. While the cause of the school fire is yet to be determined, the young heir to the ring master De Foe and Bertha the Elephant made their way to the water trough, where the large animal withdrew almost the entire volume of water, plodded efficiently to the porch and doused the fire. Joined within minutes by a number of men, after young Johnny Hawking's managed to sound the schools bell, the fire was out before any major damage occurred.
Adam shook his head before continuing to read Katherine's words, explaining the situation.
…Papa had to have read the newspaper report. Who would have thought such a small town would have a journalist? The town hasn't been settled that long, but seeing as it a waystation for a lot of the wagon trains heading west, Grandfather thought it would be a good place for us to set up. Still, I'm glad their little school house didn't burn down; it is one of the few buildings in the main street, doubling as a house of worship on Sundays.
We'd only been here a few hours, when all the ruckus started. We arrived and paraded down the main street to cheers and shouts of laughter from the residents and the many travellers heading out West. Papa was right, before we had set up the big top, we had loads of people coming through. I guess for some it was a nice break to their long journeys and for others and nice start to theirs. Alexandra had been dressed in Top hat and red tails, sitting atop Bertha as Andy lead her down the street. Little Bombay twaddled behind them dressed as a comical clown. It was during the set up that Alex went missing with Bertha and the escapade followed. Alexandra's excuses for her adventure were just as interesting. I can almost recite Alexandra's explanation verbatim, as she attempted to explain it all to grandfather in an bid to avoid the paddling of a lifetime grandfather said she had coming.
"Grandpapa, twern't mah fault. Bertha wanted ta play with them other children. I'n too little to jist take her all by myself, even ifin I do know Andy's magic words. Andy was busy with little Bombay, he done got his collar all tangle up and was yelping, Bertha was in a flurry an all, so Andy took him away where she couldn't see her baby. Bertha done thinked little Bombay was playing with the children, I guess. I guess that's what she thought; I woulda thought that; all children sound the same, and little Bombay sure sounds like a little child at times, so she done went looking fer him… corse she done forgetted I was on top, cause I'n little and light; grandmama Willameena says; I'm petite. When we got ta the school the kids all come running. They's were laughing and givin' her their lunches an all. They's thought we looked real magnifico, grandpapa, jist like you do when ya in the big ring. So, I done give mah audience a treat. I jist used one of Andy's magic words and Bertha done bowed. The boys and girls were clapping and chearin'. The teacher man came out and told all the children ta get back ta school. Will I get ta go to school someday? I think I will like it. They was all real happy children; learning all tagether must be fun. I wonder what they learn. I'd like ta learn how ta fly. I'm jist as happy now, especially when I'm with Bertha. Afore the children could go back in ta the school house, some kids let off some of them cracker things; you know like the ones Tasha uses in her fire rings and all. But, the teacher didn't have time to do anything about it, cause all this smoke was coming from the chimney of the school house. I seen some naughty boys run outta the back, laughing and slapping each other on the back. I betcha when the teacher man's finds them they's ain't gonna be laughing no more. Anyway, I knowed water puts out fire, so I told Bertha ta get some water from the trough… Andy uses the word; Maji Kunywha which means get water fer yer bath. So she did, and she done sprayed it on the flames. And then the fire went out…Ta Da…" said Alexandra, with her arms wide, ready to take a bow and revel in the applause she believed she truly deserved.
Instead, grandfather picked her up and put her over his knee and paddled her backside. Four swats and my baby girl was kicking and sobbing. I must admit I was almost crying with her. I remember Grandfathers paddling's when I was a little girl. But, like he did with me, when he had finished, Grandfather lifted her up and sat her on his knee and cuddled her, explaining that what she had done was dangerous, not just to her, but to Bertha and the other children.
Alex nodded, "Sworry grandfather," she sniffed. "Is Bertha mad at me too? I wouldnat wanted ta…ta hurt her; she's your main… main subtraction."
Alexandra's sincerity broke the tension immediately. Then a smartly dressed man came by with the sheriff. They explained they wanted to thank the Carnival and Alex for all their help. Alexandra was to get a commendation for bravery, along with Bertha, the first elephant in the world I would imagine to get such a reward.
Alexandra got all upset and tugged on the sheriff's vest. "But Mister, I already done been spanked fer putting me, Bertha and tha children in danger, even though I not even lighted the fire, some naughty boys done lets off some fire crackers; they's should be condemned. Condemnations what's the preacher says about sinners. I'n not a sinner, am I grandpapa?"
We tried not to laugh at Alexandra, misunderstanding. She does that a lot. Alexandra has a thirst for words. She loves hearing new ones and is constantly asking questions about their meaning. She has always been a little chatter box, and loves to tell stories using her latest new word. She must be very clever. Grandfather says she's just like him, though I suspect she might be a lot like Adam. I remember he was very articulate, but then so is grandfather.
Anyway she was quite chuffed when she found out that she was not going to hell, but getting a medal instead. She again tugged on the sheriff's vest. "Yer coulda done got here a bit afore now with that announc… declara…. "
"Announcement," corrected grandfather.
"Year hear, ye hear ye," said Alexandra. "Alexandra and Bertha are heroes'. Wish ya done that afore; afore my grandpapa done smacked me… hard too!" she emphasised before marching off with a scowl on her face.
By the time she was out of sight, we were all laughing. But, then that newspaper article came out and then a couple of days after that, we got the telegram from Papa Ardelle.
Perhaps Papa's visit won't be too bad. Except for the headline, it's hard to tell weather Alex is a boy or a girl. Mama cut her hair today, hoping that if and when Papa turns up, Monica won't be interested in a boy child. Momma has her birth certificate up her sleeve just in case; it says Alexandra is Adam Cartwrights child. I have a proxy marriage certificate too' so the law should be on mah side. Fact is I just want to leave. I've thought of wiring Adam; momma assures me even if he is still in college that Ben Cartwright would take us in. Of course we can also go back to Elk. Ivan could use the help, but I don't know if I could face that place again. For Alexandra, though I would do anything.
Sunday 28th August 1853
After service today we are joining a wagon train heading to Oregon. There we will head to Elk. We should be there by late October. It was either go now or wait until spring. I'm sort of glad, as it means we will not have to meet up with papa or his wife. We've dressed Alexandra as a little boy, and travel with Tony and his wife, who will join us at the theatre. I am so sad at leaving Grandfather, as are Momma and Molly. It was so hard saying goodbye to all our friends. It was especially hard watching my grandfather a huge man with a happy disposition and the loudest laugh you could imagine, wave goodbye with tears pooling in his eyes. He says he'll visit, maybe even bring the carnival out West.
Adam put down the journal; sad too that they felt the need to leave their Carnival family, but more so that they hadn't contacted him or his father. It was an option they considered, but didn't take. Adam felt cheated and could only surmise that Katherine was just too scared that she would lose Alexandra; even to him. She was probably right. If he and his father had they known of her existence would have done everything in their power to convince Katherine, her mother and Molly to come and stay in Nevada. Or maybe, it was a simple as Alexandra had stated to the man winning the stuffed Lion; cubs and baby's need their momma's more while they are still so little. And, he suspected that perhaps Katherine needed her just as much.
~oOo~
After reading Katherine's journal Adam checked on the sleeping Alexandra and Samantha before making himself comfortable on the leather coach in his suite. He'd grabbed the light throw and turned down the lamp on the small table beside him. Sleep evaded him for some time, as he lay there thinking about some of the entries he had read in Katherine's journal. He was glad the young mother had kept them, providing not only an insight to her motivations of not letting him know that he had fathered a child, but also gave him a glimpse of Alexandra's childhood. One that appeared very happy and full of, not surprisingly, adventure.
Adam finally got a few hours of sleep, when a slight breeze tickled at his nose. The small light beside him flicked as if a shadow passed by. In his groggy state he chose to ignore it and pulled the comforter up over his face as he rolled over to face the back of the couch. It would be another half an hour before he stirred again to the same breeze and flickering light. He rolled back, and checked the light, thinking it must be running out of oil. It still had a healthy amount of liquid in its bowl, so Adam turned the wick up, illuminating the couch and half of the room. He looked back over his shoulder and checked Alexandra's open door, wondering if she had woken and come looking for him. The door still sat ajar. No movement was seen. Adam swung his legs around planted his stocking feet on the thick rug below. With a sigh he rubbed at his eyes and tried to make out the time on clock above the suites small fireplace. He yawned as he picked up the small lamp and walked over to the clock to get a clear view. As he suspected it was well before dawn. Around four am, no wonder he was feeling the pre - dawn chill. He intended to go back to sleep, determined to get the extra two hours he was entitled to, though his bed was going to be a lot more comfortable on his back, so he walked quietly over to his bedroom where Alexandra slept. It wasn't until he got closer to the bed with his lamp that he noticed the shadowy lumps and bumps of bedding was just that… lumps, and Alexandra was not there.
A slight annoyance arose in his head. Alexandra knew she wasn't to leave the room without him, even to use the water closet at the end of the corridor. He checked around the bed wondering if she had fallen out, then checked the chairs and behind the door. Alexandra wasn't a sleep walker, but then again they were pretty tired and waking up in the middle of the night, disorientated could lead a comatose child anywhere. He remembered Joe had woken up in the middle of the night needing a chamber pot. Instead he had found Adams boots. It took Adam months to not retch every time he wore them, even though they had been thoroughly cleaned and dried out. On that reminiscent thought, Adam quickly checked the chifforobe. And to some relief did not find Alexandra and his second pair of shoes dry. She was definitely not in the bedroom. Adam then searched the parlour and then with no further sign from her, he lightly tapped on Samantha's door.
Samantha's reply was slow, but audible. Adam stuck his head in the dark room. "Sorry to bother you Sam, but…"
"Is it morning yet?" she asked instantly awake.
"No, no; you have a couple of hours before you need to get up. I was just wondering if Alexandra wondered in there and climbed into bed with you. She is not in her bed."
Adam could hear Samantha patting the bed. "No Adam, I can't feel her. I need the light, maybe she's asleep on the floor."
"I have a light, can I come in?"
"Of course."
Adam entered as Sam started to sit up. He bought the light over to the bed and illuminated the space there. Alexandra was not anywhere to be found. This time Adam started to panic, knowing she must have left the hotel room.
"She's not here. I'm getting dressed and going down stairs," he said, turning and headed towards the door.
"I'll join you," said Sam.
"Okay I'll meet you down there in five minutes. If we can't find her I'm going to have to go the police."
"Don't panic Adam, she'll be around."
Adam nodded, but before he could take another step Samantha stopped him.
"Adam?" Quizzed Samantha.
"Yes," he replied.
"I don't know… but I had this strange dream, well not a dream. I had a feeling that someone was here, it wasn't Alexandra, and I really didn't see anyone… just… I don't know; imagined or felt that someone else was here. But, they left as soon as they came. Adam, I wanted to go with them."
"Where do you think you wanted to go?"
"To the hospital. It was like I was being told to come."
"It's because you're worried about Jai," said Adam not willing to reveal the unnerving experience he also had earlier when the light had flickered.
"Maybe…" mused Samantha. "Adam, if Alexandra is not down stairs, I think we should go to the hospital. Could she find her way there?"
"Yes it's not far. We've walked there and back the last two days. Come on get dressed," urged Adam. "We need to find her, and when I do..." he mumbled, stomping off to find his boots.
Samantha made out a few more of Adam's disjointed statements as she quickly dressed. "Wail her backside… walking the streets in her nightdress… bother to put on shoes… talked to her about running around in bare feet… dark out there … she gets hurt… never forgive myself… if she's not… bloody throttle her."
~oOo~
Once they'd discovered Alexandra had been nowhere to be found, Adam and Samantha made their way to the hospital. They burst through the doors, their hearts thumping with adrenaline and in Adams case; panic. Saint Mary's doors were unlocked, but the lights were low and the place quiet with most of its residents asleep.
The night nurse stood quickly, as Samantha and Adam came nosily through the doors panting and out if breath. She shushed them as she rounded her nurse's station, before stopping them from running down the halls. "I'm sorry," said the nun. "Is there an emergency?"
"Yes Sister. My name is Adam Cartwright and this is Samantha Crawford; we both have relatives that are patients here. My daughter…"
"Hold on Mr Cartwright. If your relatives are here, they are in safe hands. I'm Sister Bernadette, visiting hours are …
"We're not here to visit … my daughter is missing and I think she has come here to see her mother. She is only eleven. Have you seen a little girl come in here?"
"Oh gracious; by herself!" exclaimed Sister Bernadette. "I haven't' seen her, but then I've just come back from rounds with Sister Gabrielle. There was no little girl except for the little Chinese girl in ward six."
"That's my Jai," said Samantha. "My names Samantha Crawford. Sister Gabriel knows us. Monsignor Twoomey said we could come back first thing this morning. "
"Monsignor went back to the presbytery some time ago; it's just next door, though, I can get him if you think it's necessary, but he really needs his rest too."
"I understand, sister. Katherine Defoe is Alexandra's mother. Alex could have easily snuck in while you were on your rounds. Could I just check to see?" asked Adam.
"Ohhh yes, of course. I heard about that little girl. I heard she gave Sister Eugene a run for her money," smiled the sister. "Go right on through Mr Cartwright, Miss Crawford, but please don't wake any of the patients. I'll stay here in case your little girl comes through the door."
"Thank you," said Adam, as he and Samantha headed down the corridor to Katherine's room. Before they rounded the door frame, they could hear the soft whisperings of a small child. They stopped, out of sight. Adam somewhat relieved, stood to calm his nerves now and not bust through the door scaring or upsetting Katherine. At least his girls were safe.
"You rest now Momma, yer shoulda waited till morning. Daddy woulda bought me straight way, coarse he woulda made me eat first. He don't like me running around on an empty stomach. He don't like me running around without no shoes on either on account that a snake coulda bite me in the long grass, but their ain't no snakes here, Momma."
Alexandra stopped for a moment, listening to an even softer whisper; almost a musical hum. Adam and Samantha could not make out the words, but presumed it was Katherine responding. Adam and Samantha looked at each other when Alexandra suddenly started talking again.
"I will, Momma, I promise. You was right; Daddy is a good papa. I call him dad, cause Little Joe and Hoss call Grandpa Ben Pa, so I figured ifin I yelled out, "Pa" they's mighta think I was after grandpa Ben and not daddy. Though ya really can't get them mixed up, excepting both can yell pretty loud. Grandpa Ben yells as loud as Grandpa William. Grandpa Ben says it's because he's the ringmaster of his own personal circus. I promise ta be good. I love ya too much ta not be the best I can be, like ya always said, Momma. Do I make ya proud?"
Adam strained to listen to Katherine's response, but still couldn't make out her words.
"Yes, Momma, I'll tell him. But, Momma, he done already forgive ya. He knows how much ya loved me and he don't blame yer none, cause he loves me jist as much. And I know that he loves you too, not like a real prince and princess or anything cause ya never got the chance, but he loves you because of you and because of me. He said youse two made me outta love."
Samantha smiled at Adam and pushed him forward. "You get in there. I'm going to check on Jai and Brett," she whispered.
Adam nodded and went through the door. Alexandra was lying next to her mother; their heads resting next to each other, while holding hands. Both were dressed in their white nightdresses slightly transparent due to the soft glow of the moon filtering through the window. Adam was reminded of the daguerreotype, and all his annoyance at Alexandra's late night escapade dissipated.
"Hey, there are my girls," he whispered. "It's far too late to be visiting, Alexandra. You had me worried."
Alexandra smiled but didn't move. "I know, Daddy. Momma tried ta wake you too, but you was too busy snoring," she said quietly. "Ya gotta whisper, Dad, cause mommas real tied and her voice is raspy and she's fightin' ta talk. I reckon she's got that Laringfightuss."
"Laryngitis?" Adam looked at Katherine, and could see her gentle nod. She was very pale and her breathing shallow. He wondered about Alexandra's comment; Katherine could have not physically gone anywhere; she was far too weak. Perhaps Alexandra's instincts had called to her in a dream. He had had similar experience as a child when his father had gone away on long trips; most of them had let him believe his father was in no real danger and would be home soon, even if delayed by some minor problem. This time however, Adam's instincts and experience forewarned him with the sense of the tragedy of the moment, yet the room was filled with a feeling of serenity and peace. Adam slowly sat on the bed; there was a little hutch there made from Katherine's legs underneath the blanket and Alexandra's shorter ones; her bare toes wriggling, above them.
Katherine looked at him, "thank you," she mouthed… she looked at Alexandra. "Precious…" she whispered, before leaning into Alexandra's head of blonde curls. She kissed them then with what little breath she could draw, she inhaled her child's exclusive fragrance.
Adam waited for Katherine to exhale, but if she did it was not heard. Adam stood up and moved towards Alexandra. And picked her up and held her to his chest. Alexandra revelled in her father's warmth and strength. It was only then, did she realise her mother's hand had grown a little cold, and she let her mother's hand go, as Adam lifted her and stepped back. She pushed back of Adams chest and craned her head around to see her mother's soft face, peaceful and with her eyes closed.
"Is she gonna sleep now, Daddy?" asked Alexandra.
"No baby, but she is at rest."
Alexandra looked into her father's tear filled eyes, searching for a more concrete answer. She looked back at her mother and then with the realisation that her mother had passed, she reached out wanting to return to Katherine's' side. Adam pulled her back close, pulling her head gently back towards him. "No baby, stay with me. Momma's… Momma's at peace. She wouldn't have wanted to go, but darling, her body just didn't have the strength to keep living here. She needed all that strength to leave her love here with you and take yours with her."
Alexandra dropped her head on Adam's shoulder, wrapped her arms tighter around his neck and broke into tears.
Adam walked slowly towards the door and out into the corridor. He slid down the wall, his daughter still firmly in his arms and cried with her.
~oOo~
They stayed like that for some time, their body's stiff and their faces taught and salty from their drying tears.
"Adam, Adam!" A cry pulled them from their sadness, as Samantha ran towards them. "It's Jai, she's woken up. She's out of her coma."
Sister Gabriel appeared from one of the other wards and ran into ward six. Samantha swung around to join her; too immersed in her own joy to take in the melancholy expressions on her new found friends faces.
Adam rubbed Alexandra's back, as she sniffed exhausted with her head still on his chest. "Life's good Alexandra. People die, yes, but new ones are born and others experience miracles and get to live a bit longer. It's funny like that," he consoled.
"Do you think maybe God had room for only one person today, Dad?"
"Maybe. That's a good way to look at it. Your Momma's on one journey, per- say and Jai has a different road to travel before she gets to heaven."
"I'm real happy for Jai, Daddy, but even more for Miss Samantha and Mr Maverick; they's all got a journey a head of them afore they get to Gods place."
"That they have, and so do all of us while we are here."
"You and me, Dad. We'll be okay too."
"Hhmm hmm."
"I kinda always knew my Momma was going away; that's why I had ta come, Daddy. Still I'm awfully," Alexandra shook her head, as she propped herself up on her father's lap. "S…a…d. I… ain't broken… or noth…ing, but I feel… feel… ohhh… jist yukky…" she hiccupped through a stream of new tears. "I wished Momma got a miracle..." she said rubbing at her eyes.
"She did baby, you and she gave that to me. She is an angel."
"She'd like bein an angel, Daddy. She wouldn't be sad or sick or even scared anymore. Can she be my angel?"
"Yep." Adam pulled Alex toward him. He lent against the wall and took the moment to stretch out his cramped legs.
Alexandra rubbed at her eyes again, dragging her palms down her checks to wipe the remainder of the tears away before sitting up. She then stood up and held her hand out to her father. Alexandra took a huge breath, and blew it out with a sigh of resignation and then took another breath one of rejuvenation. "Come on, Dad, let's go see Jai."
"You don't want to stay here a little longer?" asked Adam, as he used Alexandra's outstretched arm and the wall to work his way up off the ground.
"No not here, Daddy, Momma ain't here."
Sister Bernadette spotted him and ran to help. "Mr Cartwright I see you found your little girl. Was she with her mother after all?"
"Yes, Sister. Katherine is…"
Sister Bernadette looked into Katherine's ward and recognised the scene. She gave Adam a look that expressed sympathy and understanding, . "You go to your friends. I'll send for the Monsignor; we'll look after Katherine."
Father and Daughter walked down the hall, holding hands. "Dad, Father Sebastian says that God's mansion has many rooms. Will there be enough room for Momma, and her Momma and Grandfather William?" asked Alexandra.
"Oh I think so. I think my mother will be there too, and Uncle Hoss and Uncle Joe's Momma's."
"Good, I hope Momma's room has a window."
~oOo~
By the time they got to Jai's room, Maverick, Sister Gabriel and Samantha were all there fussing over the little girl.
Sister Gabriel was checking her casts, and helping Jai prop herself up.
"I'm thirsty," rasped Jai.
"Well, you may have a little sip of water. Not too much, you may be sick."
"I'm going to be alright now, Sister," said Jai. "The white lady told me so."
"Just the same; just little sips until I get the doctor. Miss Crawford there's a jug and glass over there."
"Sister Bernadette's gone to get the Monsignor, Sister," said Adam.
"Oh?"
"Yes, its Katherine, she's…"
"Oh, I'm so sorry Adam," said Samantha, stopping mid-stream as she poured the water.
Alexandra moved over towards her and gently took the glass from her. "It's alright, Miss Samantha, Momma is at peace now. She's an angel in heaven, talkin' and laughing with all my family. We're sad… but more sad for us. Momma won't be sick anymore." With that, Alexandra took the glass to Jai and knelt up on the chair beside her bed to help her friend drink.
Samantha and Maverick moved closer to Adam, consoling him with their genuine smiles and soft empathetic touches.
Sister Gabriel stood at the end of Jai's bed, saying a prayer, before kissing the crucifix from the rosary that hung around the waist of her white habit. "I'll leave you for a minute, and go and help Sister Bernadette. Jai seems fine, try not to let her move too much, she won't be used to those casts. I'll bring the doctor back."
As Sister left, the three adults stood together at the end of Jai's bed, watching Alexandra give Jai water.
"Jist a bit atta time," said Alexandra. "Sides, it must be hard drinking when yer almost lying down."
"It's alright, Alexandra even a little bit of water feels good. My whole body felt so heavy, but now it's mainly my arm."
"Yer legs broke and yer arm, Jai. Maverick found you," explained Alex.
"I know. I remember that. I couldn't wake up though. I think I fell from the roof."
"Hmm you did. It seems you escaped from Wang Lee across the roof tops. But, then you fell and a wagon ran over your leg. I was lucky to find you," added Maverick.
"I knew you would, my ancestors told me so."
"Your ancestors?" asked Samantha.
"Yes, I've always felt their protection, and then my parents. It is because they have joined them. That makes me very happy to know that they have found their way back to their families. Their souls are whole."
"Here, yer outta have another drink," said Alexandra.
"Thank you, Alex peng," said Jai. "You are a good true friend. My ancestors approve of you."
"Well I reckon my ancestors would approve of you too. My Momma done joined them; I kinda wished that you got to meet her. She would like you very much."
"I am sorry, Alexandra. I tried to wake up. Then it started hurting when I tried too hard. My ancestors came with my father and my mother. I wanted to go with them, but they said I had to try and wake up. Then Billy came and said I had to try harder."
"Billy?" Asked Samantha.
"Yes Billy; the white Lady. I think she works here. She was beautiful. She sung to me. Then we danced. Mother and Father smiled. My ancestors faded away, and I felt their pride. Billy said; I had to wake up, that my new family needed me, wanted me to be strong," said Jai starting to get excited and trying to sit up, but her cast made it awkward and tiresome. She sighed frustrated and confused.
Samantha came to the other side of the bed. "Hey, hey take it slow, Jai." She propped another pillow behind her back. "There, is that better? Try not to lift your arm, sweetheart."
"Very well," said Jai, then took another sip of water, before resuming. "Mother and father joined us in the dance. When we stopped, Mother and Father rubbed their cheeks against mine." Jai stopped and ran her good hand down the side of her face, "I can still feel their touch. Then Billy told them she would walk with me, help me to wake. She held my hand as I waved Mother and Father goodbye. She then gave me a kiss "get strong" she said. And then, she smiled and pushed me gently away… back to this bed. And I saw Maverick asleep in that chair." Jai pointed to the now empty chair and discarded blanket in the corner where Maverick had held vigil.
"I suddenly heard a little whisper," said Maverick. "Billy says; wake up now, Maverick peng." I looked over and Jai was wide awake and looking at me. "I knew you'd save me", she said.
"And you did," whispered Jai. "I am sorry, Samantha peng that I have caused you so much trouble. I will make it up to you. If you let me, I will look after you, Samantha peng."
"No Darling…" said Samantha, brushing Jai's thick hair back from her face.
Jai's face dropped a little.
"No Darling that's not what I mean. I will look after you; I promise I will…"
Maverick moved closer to Samantha and put his arms around her shoulders. "We'll all look after each other, always" he said, giving Samantha a silent promise with his eyes.
Tears came to the young woman's eyes, as she locked them on her long-time friend and true love; one that she had never admitted out loud to anyone for fear of appearing foolish and weak. She turned head back to look at Jai, dabbing at the tears that had escaped.
Jai beamed back at her, with her own tears freely flowing with happiness. "Tears of happiness are cleansing. They bring new hope… They also make one tired," she yawned.
"Well you sleep now, Jai. We'll be here when you wake," crooned Samantha.
"The doctor should be here soon. Rest now," added Maverick.
"Yes, Alexandra," called Adam quietly. "Come, leave Jai; let her rest."
Alexandra hoped down from the chair and made her way over to her father. Adam picked her up. "Daddy," she whispered, "Do you think Momma could be an angel to Jai too?"
"Maybe, I don't see why not," he said softly.
"Daddy, when Momma was little, her Momma used ta call her Billy, did you know that?"
Adam suddenly remembered the endearment. Katherine had called herself that the first time they had met. Adam remained silent, wondering about the unusual events; his dream, Alexandra's conversation with her dying mother and now Jai's subconscious experience."
"Daddy?"
"Yes baby."
"Ya know what I think. I think Momma was here for all of us tonight. I think God gave her some extra angel duties afore she went to his mansion."
"You may right, little one," said the Monsignor as he came through the door.
Sister Gabriel followed, with fresh water and linen. But seeing Jai asleep, she placed them on the tray beside the bed and checked the child's forehead for fever.
"Can I see you for a moment Mr Cartwright?" asked the Monsignor. "The rest of you; there is warm tea in the kitchen. Please help yourself, while Sister Gabriel and I attend to Jai. She will most likely not stir for some hours yet, but it is a good sleep, I' am relieved to say."
"So you were worried doctor?" asked Samantha.
"A little. Jai injuries are serious, but not life threatening. We have little knowledge of the brain ; I could not tell if there were more serious injuries there. Her unconscious state was a concern. But, no longer. Please go rest. You can come back in a little while," insisted Monsignor Twoomey.
Adam lowered Alexandra to the floor. Then, Samantha, Maverick and Alexandra left the room quietly and headed down the hallway to the small kitchen.
Adam stayed by the door as the Monsignor checked on the sleeping Jai. "I think she is fine for now, Sister. I wouldn't disturb her for a while. You can change linens, and bath her when she wakes. Call me if she spikes a fever."
Sister Gabriel nodded, straightened Jai's covers then sat down in the chair to wait quietly.
Monsignor Twoomey, took Adam by the elbow as he exited the room. "Sister Bernadette has attended to Katherine if you would like to see her again, Adam. I am so sorry that I couldn't have given her more time with you and Alexandra. Her heart was obviously just too weak and damaged."
"I guess we were lucky to have had what time we did," said Adam. "I was dreading this moment. I knew it was inevitable, but dreading it all the same."
"We want peace and health and happiness for our loved ones, you got some of that. And, grief when that loved one dies is there even when we think we are prepared for it. Grief in itself tells us that this person's life; this person's soul had merit, for we would not grieve for those that do not have it. It means they were here, they were loved and will be remembered for all of that. There will come a time when those memories will bring happiness. It was a miracle that Katherine survived for as long as she did. Doctor Shultz helped some with that. I'm sure his therapies gave her more time and hope. But, I also think Katherine's strength had a lot to do with it. Her need to know her child was safe and loved. She found that out yesterday and perhaps, that meant she could go; not have to fight so hard anymore. Still it is a miracle. I'm just sorry Alexandra had to come a find her gone like that, but then very few of us get to say goodbye at the time of passing. Most people choose to go when the world is quiet."
"Katherine was alive when Alexandra came, doctor," said Adam. "I don't know what made Alexandra come to the hospital in the middle of the night. But, she came; she is very intuitive though, and well I could have sworn… No well, I had a dream of some sorts, and so did Samantha, that we were meant to come here as soon as possible."
"Adam, from what I can tell: her pallor, her body temperature. Adam, Katherine died almost two hours ago. I'd say sometime after Sister Gabriel rounds. She logged her observation at midnight. Her heart rate was slow, as usual, but she was sleeping peacefully."
"No, Monsignor, Katherine spoke to me… she smiled at me, and… I knew she was dying, I knew it was her goodbye, but that was no more than fifteen minutes ago."
The monsignor nodded, and looked back through the door at Jai sleeping peacefully in her hospital bed. "I may be wrong, Adam. And, you can declare me a religious nut who believes science is as much a miracle as Gods wondrous gifts of life, but there have been angels in our midst tonight. Alexandra is right, it's been a busy shift for our heavenly father's helpers."
"Including you," laughed Adam, pretending not to take his implication too seriously, but believing in his supposition just the same.
"And you too, young man. Come would you like me to say some prayers with you over Katherine?"
"Yes, I'd like that, but just you me and her, Monsignor. I don't want to upset Alexandra again tonight."
"Very well. Tomorrow we can all light candles in the chapel."
~oOo~
Overland Telegraph Company...
To: Ben Cartwright
The Ponderosa
Nevada Territory
Katherine passed peacefully early hours this morning stop Alexandra and I fine stop Molly arriving Thursday stop Will head home Friday after making arrangements Stop
Adam Cartwright
Empire House
San Francisco.
TBC : Chapter 24: Epilogue.
One more chapter to go. Hopefully it will not be too long a wait this time. Thanks everyone for your patience and reviews. Lajoci and I are both very busy and worked hard; and it was a hard chapter to write. A shout out to Islaboe who gave me a thumbs up with Alex's past stories. Don't worry, I have a few more up my sleeve.
