7' Chapter
A few days later...
" Oh, finally outdoors! I couldn't stand being indoors anymore!"
They proceeded, hand in hand, through the streets of the village.
He still had his arm tied around his neck so as not to strain his shoulder.
They reached Orville's office and found Hutch and Thorne there, with other officers who had come from Las Mesas.
Gruner, who had passed away, had found burial at the city cemetery.
Having ascertained his death, through the testimony of the two federals, the 'emissary who had come from Las Mesas was handing Orville the envelope with the checks relating to Gruner and Tomaz's bounties and, having taken care of the paperwork, was waiting with the two federals and the other escort agent to ransom the prisoner, held in the cell, to take him to Las Mesas.
Leaving the cell, chained, he walked past Luke and glared at him.
" Damn you Macahan, I never could stand you!"
" The thing is mutual! Now I understand why you treated me badly from the first second I set foot in Dowby Town; You were afraid I might find out everything!"
" Tell me one thing Macahan... why didn't you kill me the 'other day... did you do it on purpose, to get me on the gallows?"
"Who knows...maybe it had to be that way!"
He said no more, lowered his head and let them lead him to the armored carriage!"
The Las Mesas agents held him under arms, one on his right and one on his left.
The two feds, saluted, Luke, Hillary and Orville also turned and followed the prisoner.
" Hey, Hutch, wait...let's change the 'check and give you a share of the bounty! You also contributed to their capture!"
"No, Luke, keep them for yourselves. In the end, everyone got their comeuppance; to us the glory to you the money... say ... let's pretend it's a repayment the Nation pays you for all you've been through! Enjoy life now-you deserve it-you're a good guy!"
"Thanks Hutch, to you too Thorne, goodbye!"
" Aren't you coming to Las Mesas to enjoy the show?"
"No, I think I've already seen too many dead bodies in my life... Just let me know that everything went well!"
" Alright, I'll write you here!"
They left.
Luke, Hillary and Orville returned to the office ;
Orville placed the envelope in Luke's hands...
" But shouldn't you cash them?"
" Read the name on the 'check!"
" Luke ... Macahan $30,000... Thirty.-Thirty thousand dollars phew, geez.
Took the enclosed letter opened it and read:
(State of New Mexico
Governor Z.knight
They hereby deliver to Mr. Luke Macahan the 'check in the amount of $30,000
in consideration of the capture/death of the two outlaws.
We thank you for what you have done and apologize for what you have had to suffer
unjustly.
All necessary notifications have already been arranged to remove all traces of crime and all manifestos against you.
I am absolutely certain that you can have, thanks to your solid friendship with Sheriff Gant, a future as a brilliant "lawman"
Sincerely
Zachary knight.)
He raised his head and looked contentedly at Orville!
" It's over!"
" No, Luke...the fun begins now for you, for you!
Come on, the bank is waiting for you!"
" On one condition...let's split the difference, you contributed too!"
" Ah, I'm old now, what am I going to do with all that money! Keep it all!"
"Let's put it this way, then ... I'd like you to keep a portion for Tommy's future!"
" All right go for a third if you're okay with that!"
" Sold!"
" Do you already have any idea how to organize the next few days?"
" I would have an idea...if we picked up where we left off? If that's okay with you!"
" Isn't it a little early to be riding?"
" Well maybe let's wait a couple of days!"
They were about to leave when Orville called them back.
" Ah Luke I was forgetting this...é for you, from your family. It arrived this morning!"
He opened the envelope.
(Everything okay here, we look forward to seeing you Macahan Family ( in full)).
" Yay!!!
" When are we leaving Luke?"
" I can't wait anymore. we are leaving tomorrow!" "But...your shoulder?"
" I'm fine... ! Don't worry!"
" Listen to me son, let's wait a couple of days...you're not in any condition to take a trip yet...don't run away, you know!"
"All right, you've convinced me, but not one more day!"
They went out.
" But tell me, Luke, what are we going to do once we get married? Where will we live?"
Luke stopped, came face to face with her and took her hands.
' Your father proposed to me yesterday!"
" What proposal?"
" For now he wants me to be his deputy then, one day, when he sees fit, I will take his place!"
" And what did you tell him?"
"That I should have discussed it with you. but that, from my side, it could be a yes but..."
" But what?"
" I have a condition...after the honeymoon!"
" Honeymoon? - she said elated-and where?"
" You see, it's a promise I made to myself ... I want to fulfill my father's dream ... visit Oregon, California; he would have loved to go there but ... the war wiped out his dream. I knew, right away, after I found him in Shilo, that I owed it to him!" A tear streaked his face.
Hillary, with her finger wiped away his tear and stroked it.
" If you want it so badly, we will do it!"
they kissed each other.
She took his hand and they walked back to the bank.
" And tell me Luke ... but where will we live? Don't tell me with pa-I couldn't live with that little pest anymore!"
" That won't be necessary.-he paused again-before you answer wrong, please think!"
" What do you mean?"
" You know Hollingsworth's ranch?"
" Clay? what about him?"
Luke put his hand in his pocket and pulled out a set of keys.
" He's gone, He's been offered the governor's office and moved to Denver!"
" But will it cost us a fortune?"
" Noooo! He got it from the district judge and when he left he left the keys with your father, telling him he would like you to live there, considering that in Denver he will have a wonderful colonial house and this one had no one to leave it to."
" It's going to be weird for me to live in Clay's house...to think that I almost ended up living there with him...when I think about it!"
" So what do you think?"
" But it's huge...at least three families could live there!"
"mmhh...try to think!"
" You don't mean that...!"
" We could ask them!
" I could already see them there! Orville and Uncle Zeb fighting over Emma!!! Well but if you don't want to there's always the mcGillis' farm...they moved out two years ago and it's been unoccupied!
" But it's a ruin!!!"
" If you had seen what the first house we found in Nebraska was like...it was a saddi...had you seen then how we transformed it!"
" All right, I believe you ma..."
" So!"
She stole the keys from Luke's hand
" I guess that's a yes!"
' You bet!"
" Ha ha , I knew it! You'll see..after a while you won't even think about Clay anymore...or at least, I hope so!"
" Of course , what a fool...and then...just to remind you... it was your fault that I got involved with him!"
" There you go again!!!!"
" No, no, sorry, I didn't mean to! I love you so much Luke!
What about Dad's proposal?"
" We have to decide together, you know what kind of life it is!"
" Yes, I know, but I think I've gotten used to it and then ... I think you've got what it takes!"
" Ah thanks for the confidence!
Come on let's go to the bank!"
" Would you mind going, I should go make lunch!"
" Alright, see you later...ah since it's early, maybe I'll stop by Orville's for a minute!"
" Don't tire yourself out, okay?"
" Relax!"
After stopping by the bank he caught up with Orville.
" Ah Hi Luke, how are you?"
"Fine, thanks!"
" I have another letter here for you from Las Mesas!"
" From Las Mesas? Who sent it to me?"
" Judge Zachary Night.!"
" And why did he send it to you?"
" " No, no. It's for you. They gave it to me along with the check."
He took the envelope and opened it; he frowned.
" Is something wrong Luke?"
"No, it's an invitation to attend the gallows of Tomaz, Britten and Palomo!"
" When will that be? Are you going?"
" It is scheduled for Sunday. ( Looking at the calendar on Orville's desk) in two days--they don't waste time! No, it will be enough for me to know that it will all be over quickly, but you know...watching someone die is never a pretty sight, even if it's Tomaz. When I think that, until recently, I was the candidate for that ...well to that end... No, I'm not going there. Besides, I have far more positive thoughts for my imminent future than attending that show. I'll be sure to learn the news as soon as I get to Teton!"
" Fair enough! You have no idea how happy I am that you are rid of those unfair charges. How does life seem to you now?"
" It still feels like a dream to me! All these years of hiding and running away..for something then, for which I was not to blame! I've lifted a weight off my shoulders, Orville. I feel divine!"
" You deserve it! You're such a good guy. I knew it right away you know--ever since that first day at the river!"
" Thank you Orville, thank you for everything!"
" It is I who have you to thank. Besides saving my life two, actually three times!"
" Three?"
" Well ..if you also count the rescue from possible drowning in the river!"
" Ah yes!
" In addition, I was saying, you also saved me from a son-in-law like Clay Hollingsworth but now my boy ... it's your own damn business Ha ha!"
"Yeah ...We'll try to find our balance.
Hillary really has a temper!" he said wrinkling his nose.
They both burst out laughing.
"You know what...I sincerely hope that your children will catch your temper!"
" Let's hope so!" More laughter.
" Come on Orville, Hillary is waiting for us at lunch!"
"Yes, let's go..may she be kept waiting, I'll close up and follow you!"
The next day.
At Las Mesas
The armored car arrived in Las Mesas late in the evening.
"Here you go judge. It's all yours!"
"Welcome Tomaz, I hope you will find tonight's short stay with your cronies to your liking. It will be my pleasure to bring this to an end tomorrow morning!"
"I guess this is a personal matter for you!"
" You bet it is. I knew Rensen for a long time and we were good friends! The way then, how you killed him... makes everything even more despicable! Bring him in! Get him out of my sight!"
" Yes, sir!"
He was led to the cells where he went to keep Britten and Palomo company.
"Hey, Tomaz!"
"Not a word! Be quiet, please!"
The next morning!
The stage was set and in the square, many people were already pouring in: curious citizens, businessmen, photographers and reporters, members and staff of the breeders' club.
It was 7:30 a.m. when Judge Zachary Knight made his appearance on the stage.
Shortly thereafter, behind him, chained, came Britten, Palomo and finally Tomaz.
Their arrival was cheered with shouts, whistles and anger from the crowd present.
" Sshh! Quiet now, please!
We are here today to put an end to some sad incidents that took place in our town. Three men who sealed the fate of Judge Rensen and our friend CLaura.
Two murders at the hands of Tomaz and Palomo here. All organized by a man we thought was a respectable businessman such as Francis Britten.
I think you all agree with me that this can only be the best resolution."
Shouts of encouragement came from the crowd.
"Well, proceed!"
The prisoners were led to their stations and, as they climbed the step, the noose was placed on them.
"Do you have anything to say? -none of them opened their mouths-I would say we can proceed. Remove the pedestals!"
One thud, two, three, and a few seconds later the three men, without too much wriggling, achieved peace of mind.
Screams rose from the crowd.
The three men hung for a few minutes, after which orders were given to lay them down and lead them away for burial.
Judge Zachary Knight also left the stage and returned to his office, his head down accompanied by Sheriff Mason.
"Hey Zac! I saw you checking out the crowd. I guess you were looking for Macahan!"
"Yes, I had sent him the 'invitation, but I don't blame him. In his place, I wouldn't have come either!
I'm going to write him that everything went well!"
"All right, see you Zac!"
" Ah, Mason, do we have any urgent trials these days?"
" No, nothing important, why!"
" I think I'll leave, maybe I'll be gone a few days!"
" Business?"
" No, pleasure trip with a couple of friends!"
All right Zac, take your time!
" Arriverderci Mason!"
- - -
Two days later...
At Jimson's Break
Mounting their horses, they set out for Teton.
Orville, entrusted the 'office to his temporary deputy, who had returned in the evening from an expedition.
" I commend you Fred, that everything goes smoothly...I'll be gone a few days, maximum a week!"
" Sure, go easy and wish Hillary and Luke well!"
After a few hours...
"Luke how much longer? I'm tired!"
" Come on Tommy, don't complain, half a day and we're there!"
" Can't we stop for a while, I'm thirsty and have to do...beh! You got it!
" Soon we will have to pass the town of Cora, we can stop for a while and rest."
" You could use some too son, you have a face that speaks for itself...all this jerking around I don't think it's doing you any good?"
" Indeed! Although, I still remember the trip from Shilo to Nebraska..with that bayonet wound in my side..that still hadn't healed!"
" Gee...can you show me Luke? Can you still see it?"
" Yes, it left its mark on me! Later maybe, when we stop..okay!"
A couple of hours later, they arrived in Cora-it was now lunchtime!
They entered the saloon...
" Hello gentlemen, miss...what can I get you?"
" Beer Luke?"
" Yes, thank you!"
" Hey I'm here too!"
" Oh hello young man and what can I get you?"
"A nice glass of water please and maybe a nice dessert!, if you have any sir!"
" Oh what a fine young man! We have nice slices of cake...look, come this way...so you can choose!"
"Boy...is this a blackberry jam tart?"
" Sure kid!"
Luke looked at Hillary.
" It haunts us!"
" You know what young man, this one is on me!...and you want some?"
" Actually we haven't had lunch yet!"
" Well if you want I can bring you something...we have good food here, you know!"
"That's always fine, you do it...what you have is always fine!"
" Please be my guest! hey young man, then I'll save the slice for later ok?"
"Yes sir, thank you sir!"
"Look at that good boy!"
" Yes, you must see him at home!"
" Is he your son?"
Hillary horrified looked at Tommy and then at the bartender.
" Oh no, he's my brother! We are not married yet!"
" They are getting married in a few days, you know sir!"
" Ah well then best wishes!"
" Where are you headed?"
"To Teton, that's where my family is!"
"Well, have a seat, I'll bring you some food as soon as possible."
They stayed there a couple of hours then, paid the bill and greeted the gentleman they went out.
" Hey Tommy, are you ready to go again?"
"Yes. Tell me something Luke, is it true that you have a ranch with lots of horses?"
" Yes, there are not so many but they are beautiful.
We even have several Appaloosas!"
" Gee, like Indian ones?"
" Yes, let's say many of them have them!"
" Can I try to ride him too...without a saddle, like the Indians?"
"Hmm... they are a bit wild, you have to be very firm with them but also gentle...they understand if you are afraid... in short it's not so easy to ride them you know... but we'll see!"
" Come on let's go ohh!"
the bartender was at the door of the saloon
" Goodbye gentlemen and best wishes with that young lady!"
" Thank you!...I feel like I've heard that line before!"
" Where Luke?"
" The guy from the 'boarding house...remember Hillary, before you get to Herdon pass!"
" I guess he figured out you're a little crazy too!"
" You little monster, if I get my hands
on you!!! '
" Good Hillary, he's just a boy!"
"Yeah, sure...right!"
" Luke, tell me something...but...if you marry my sister...what do you become to me?"
"Brother-in-law Tommy, it's called brother-in-law!"
" We will be relatives then!"
" Yes Tommy," Luke replied, mussing his hair.
" Yay!!! I like you know...I'll have a gunslinger brother-in-law!"
" Hey Tommy...but when are you going to shut up!"
" Why, what did I say wrong?"
" Let's just say it's an appellation I'd like to shake off!"
" Appe... What?"
" Appellation... nickname!" But that's grown-up talk!"
" And how long should I wait... no don't tell me,
I'm too old to ask!"
" Ha ha ... I see you have a good memory Tommy!." Come on let's go, we are almost there.
After a couple of hours they reached the valley.
Ahead of them, they caught a glimpse of the Macahan ranch.
"That's it Tommy, that's my house over there!"
" Gosh... it's gorgeous! Come on let's go!"
" What, you're not tired anymore?"
' Move cariola!"
" Cariola? Did you hear what he called me?"
" Easy Tommy. the horse is tired. so you'll wear him out!"
" Well anyway then, he has a few days to rest!"
" Yes, of course...if he doesn't die!...You know Hillary, seeing Tommy like this, reminds me of you as a child...!
Luke and Orville looked at each other and burst out laughing.
" What are you two laughing at...don't think you're ganging up on me... I'll be quick you know...I'll leave you both without dinner,!"
He wanted to laugh but merely reached out to Hillary, and, taking her hand ...
"Hey, ssh ... are you ready!"
" I was ready last time too...there won't be any surprises will there?"
He tried to get closer but had to desist; his shoulder, after so many hours on horseback was starting to ache quite a bit.
"Absolutely! I can't wait Hillary!"
" Come on honey...you urgently need to rest."
" Yes...I guess I do!"
He paused for a moment before setting off again...
Already in the distance he could see Tommy and Orville surrounded by his family members...
He sniffed the 'air...
" So what are you doing. not coming?"
" You know Hillary, there is a wonderful echo in this valley! Listen to this... He sighed
" I am a free man!!! Yay!!!"
( sonoooo unn free man...yayaaaa) He screamed raising his left arm to the sky and savoring the 'air around him, then curled up in pain.
" Come on Luke let's go, you need to rest!"
" Yes. e on!"
Orville and zeb looked into each other's faces and Zeb
exclaimed
" Now that's the joy of a young man about to be married!"
" Yeah!!! You'll see him a little overwrought... He's Wanted to go away of necessity...but he's tired a lot on this trip!"
" Yeah, Orville, I guess! When he sets his mind to something ..nobody stops him!
I'm very happy for him, he's been through so much!"
"There they are, there they are, they are coming!"
They were all gathered on the forecourt.
" I guess they were waiting for us, Hillary!!! Hey but that's Frank! I'm glad he's here too, you'll like him!"
Reaching the front of the house, Hillary dismounted from her horse.
Zeb reached Luke
" Come on kid, I'll give you a hand, lean on me."
" Thank you, Uncle, I'll gladly accept, I'm overwhelmed!"
" Did Tomaz return the favor?"
" No, it wasn't him but one of his cronies from a balcony!
Hey uncle, ma. Frank?"
" Ha ha did you notice yet! Yes I'm afraid so!
" What do you think?"
" He seems sincere and very much in love!"
" Do you think I should...?"
" You're the one who has to decide...in dad's absence it's up to you to do the thankless task!"
"I'll talk to him, maybe later..right now I'd like to lie down a bit although I think Laura is old enough now to decide who she wants and what she wants to do!"
" Sounds wise to me! - he turned to the others -
Come on let's go inside, Luke needs to rest.
Over the next few minutes it was like a big party of kisses and hugs.
Luke collapsed asleep after a few minutes.
A couple of hours later...
Dinner was now ready and, having reduced the portions, they all managed to get something under their teeth.
From the room came a voice.
"Hey Aunt Molly, try to make some leftovers--I'm in!"
After a hearty choral laugh...
"Yes Luke we know.. We've already set aside your ration...now here comes Hillary!...non will ever change!!!"
Hillary came to him with her plate covered
" Luke are you awake yet?"
" How long have I slept?"
" Only a couple of hours! How are you?"
" A little tired but... the smell of stew didn't give me peace...I'm hungry!"
" Here, I brought you a ration."
" No, not here, I want to get up!"
" Ma...!"
" No but...I'm fine, I just needed to get some rest ...also I'll have all night to sleep...okay?"
" Okay!"
He got up and joined the others.
" Ah Luke!" how are you?"
" I'm better Aunt Molly, I just needed some rest."
" Sorry it's not much - pointing to the food ration - we weren't expecting you so soon!"
" It's okay Auntie, don't worry..I'll make do with it!"
" Listen to that...I would never have guessed it!"
" Sure Jessie...now he lives on air and love!"
" Be careful what you say, Laura...it doesn't sound like things are any different for you...or is it?"
Laura lowered her head and blushed, struck dumb.
Luke turned his head slightly and met Frank's gaze, smiling and winking at him.
" Luke there's flatbread if you want. and some more cake!"
"Cake...Yes, thank you Aunt, gladly!"
" A nice piece of cake, there is no other way to celebrate!"
" Celebrate what, Auntie?"
" This Luke!" - She handed him the copy of the newspaper announcing the 'successful hanging of the three men in Las Mesas.
" Now it's all over! - He put the mouthful of cake in his mouth, closing his eyes to savor the sweet taste of full freedom. - Iuuucu"-he sighed contentedly.
He ate and drank after which, he got up and headed for the front door.
" Luke, where are you going?"