A week later
You all should be very proud of these test results and as a reward, we are going to be spending some time outside of the classroom next week we are going to be studying the scientific field of entomology does anyone know what entomology means entomology is the study of insects but for today class is dismissed Elisabetta said
Yes let's go a Boy said
See you all soon Okay don't forget your lunch pails buckets by come on hustle afternoon constable Elisabetta said
Actually, I'm here in an unofficial capacity Seth said
Oh, I see Elisabetta said
I've come to ask for your hand Seth said
I beg your pardon Elisabetta said
Your hand May I have it Seth said
Oh mmm-hmm Elisabetta said
Miss Elisabetta Letcher I would like to invite you to join me for supper this Saturday night the pleasure of your company would be truly appreciated Seth said
Why are you being so old formal Elisabetta said
Well, if you remember my last attempt at inviting you to supper didn't end well this time I want to be perfectly clear that my invitation not require you to cook Seth said
I appreciate your lovely invitation and I accept is that it Elisabetta said
Uh yeah Seth said
Then may I have my hand back Elisabetta said (both chuckling)
I shall assume that this supper does not imply the beginning of a possible courtship you've made it very clear that offers or Mounties do not have wives if they wanted you to have a wife they would have issued you one Elisabetta said
Did I say that Seth said
(Chuckles) several times Elisabetta said
That does sound like something I'd say Seth said
So, I will see you Saturday night for supper Elisabetta said
Yes see you Saturday night for supper and Elisabetta please do consider this an act of courtship (as he kisses her hand) Seth said
Second later the stage couches in town
You must be Seth Thornton, Thomas said
Yes I am who might you be Sir Seth said
Constable Thomas O'Reilly he said
And where is your hour's constable Seth said
Well, she wanted to make a grand entrance Thomas said
And who might she be Seth said
Oh, my goodness oh my gosh what are you doing here Elisabetta said
Well, you didn't think I was going to let you have all the fun out in the Wild West did you Julianna said
You come all by yourself Elisabetta said
Daddy got me my own personal office as an escort, of course, I am much more interested in meeting your man in red serge Julianna said
Oh, look out for the ... Elisabetta said
That didn't happen Julianna said
You said you wanted to experience the Wild West Elisabetta said
And here I am into it with both feet so to speak hi I'm Julianna Letcher Elisabetta's sister Julianna said
A pleasure to meet you ma'am Seth said
That evening at Abby's
Here we go, Abby, said
Thank you so much, Mrs. Stanton, Julianna said
Please call me Abby how long did you say you'd be staying Abby said
Don't be alarmed for Julianna this is hardly a week's worth of clothes Elisabetta said
Well, you never know what outfit an occasion might call for I do apologize for not sending an advance warning of my visit I wanted to surprise Elisabetta Julianna said
Something she's been doing since she came out of the womb feet first no less Elisabetta said
Well, it's no trouble at all we're happy to have you Abby said
I love your home it's so...rustic so quaint Julianna said
I think what Julianna meant to say is ... Elisabetta said
It's okay Elisabetta Abby said
Rustic and quaint work quite well for this town Abby said
So, when are you going to tell me what's really going on Julianna said
Pardon me Elisabetta said
Between you and that delectable Mountie, Julianna said
You must mean Seth Thornton, we're just friends Elisabetta said
Stop I saw the way you were looking at him does he feel the same way about you Julianna said
Who says how I'm feeling Elisabetta said
Please it's as if there's gravity between you like the earth pulling on the moon Julianna said
You're being bombastic there was no gravity Elisabetta said
Fine but since when do we keep secret from each other Julianna said
If you must know he asked me out for dinner this Saturday night and I accepted it's his first clear explanation of interest Elisabetta said
I know it this is like something right out of a romance novel a beautiful vulnerability young teacher comes to a farming town Julianna said
It's a coal-mining town which is why they call it Valley Spring Elisabetta said
Oh, even better then something is awakened inside of her by a virile man of the law in a red serge's jacket Julianna said
Awakened virile we went from bombast to melodrama to obscene Elisabetta said
So where is he talking you on an hours-drawn carriage ride it should be white like Cinderella Julianna said
This is not a fairytale I'm not a princess Elisabetta said
Then to a romantic French bistro for crepes and sweets toffee liqueur, Julianna said
He's probably taking me to the saloon Elisabetta said
What you mean that dusty old hole you teach in Julianna said
It's the thought that counts and more importantly, there will be no meddling in my love life understand Elisabetta said
Me meddle I never meddle I don't meddle I invest emotionally into your well-being and when my sister tells me she's in love, of course, I want to Julianna said
A love I said nothing of the sort "love life" is a general term for ...friendly companionship between the sexes Elisabetta said
Well, if you say so, Julianna
The next morning
Well, it appears As if I underestimated you, Mrs. Stanton, I didn't think you'd be able to cobble this together but you have Martin said
Never underestimate what had work set to a dream can achieve Abby said
There you go if I may a cup of coffee and something sweet Martin said
Absolutely coming right up good morning Seth Abby said
Good morning, I was wondering if I could trouble you for the usual Seth said
Oh, you have no idea how wonderful that sounds I actually have a customer who wants the usual oh by the way I have everything all ready for Saturday night Abby said
Thank you I so appreciate your help Seth said
Well, here you go Mr. Gowen, Abby said
Ah it looks wonderful though I can't imagine it can be as sweet as you Martin said
Oh, that man gets on my nerves Abby said
I can understand that Seth said
Meanwhile at school
There are so many different kinds of insects that we study them in the different subgroups or families for example melittology is the study of bees Elisabetta said
I've read that it can also be called apiology Julianna said
Thank you, Julianna, but that's actually a sub-discipline specific to honey bees Elisabetta said
Oh well then my apiologies Julianna said
Now then we are going on something of a treasure hunt next week with all of nature's beautiful little creatures being our prize we'll be looking under rocks and pulling the bark off of trees Elisabetta said
And in by we she means all of you the truth is your very own miss Letcher is terrified of bugs... Julianna said
That's enough Julianna I too will be hunting for insects just the rest of you Elisabetta said
I look forward to seeing that she's mortified I tell you Julianna said
That night at the jailhouse
So how does someone with your rank and experience end up with this escort assignment Seth said
I volunteered for it Thomas said
Why Seth said
Well, I've been working in north Burlington and Elwood Ridge for the last 15 years the job was everything they promised it would be danger excitement travel along with the satisfaction of keeping people safe Thomas said
And what? You've had enough? Seth said
Never but after I met Emelina everything changed we got married last year she's expecting our first child Thomas said
Congratulations Thomas Seth said
Yeah I never thought I'd consider settling down but life has a way of changing your priorities anyway I'm getting too old to be chasing bad guys it's your true to round them up and put them in jail tell me everything I need to know about Valley Spring and you're free to go this is for you Thomas said
Thanks, I've been reassigned Seth said
Yes you do want to go Thomas said
It's just... I've sort of settled in here and made my peace with this place I put in for a request so long ago I'd almost forgotten about it Seth said
Request form what I heard you made a demand Thomas said
Well, when I first got here I won't deny that I wanted to leave this place wasn't what I signed up for Seth said
It looks like you have a decision to make Thomas said
The next night was Saturday night
You look gorgeous Julianna said
What smells so good Elisabetta said
Oh, Abby must just be experimenting for the cafe Julianna said
Knocking on door
That must be him. Why am I so nervous Elisabetta said
You're supposed to be Julianna said
You never get like this Elisabetta said
Well, I've had more suitors than you Julianna said
Seth Thornton you look ... Elisabetta said
So do you ... here I brought this for you Seth said
It's beautiful Elisabetta said
May I Seth said
Please Elisabetta said
Not that way Seth said
Why I thought you were taking me to the saloon Elisabetta said
Well, this place seems a little more appropriate said Seth
Welcome to Abby's cafe Gawaine said
Shall we Seth said
How long have you been planning this Elisabetta said
That's a secret Seth said
I have to admit I never would have pegged you for such a romantic Elisabetta said
Well, I have a little help Seth said
So, you don't normally woo your other woman like this Elisabetta said
I haven't really had the opportunity to woo many women Seth said
You must think me naive Elisabetta said
No, sadly it's true the life of officer doesn't leave too much time for courting Seth said
Oh, Elisabetta said
I feel somewhat lacking in the area of romance I feel that my efforts tonight may pale in comparison to the legions of suitors you had back home Seth said
Far from it perhaps Elisabetta said
Then I feel really lucky Elisabetta I ... Seth said
You dance beautifully Elisabetta said
Thank you, Seth, said
I'm glad you asked me out to dinner Elisabetta said
Me too Seth said
Enchanting evening Elisabetta said
Oh, you must tell me everything Julianna said
It was the most enchanting evening of my entire life it was beyond anything I could have ever dare to dream it was like something out of a... Elisabetta said
Romance novels Julianna said
Yes but I've never read anything quite so romantic Elisabetta said
So, what will the next chapter bring Julianna said
I don't know but it sure feels like something changed tonight like we're swimming in much different waters Elisabetta said
And skinny dipping at that Julianna said
Julianna Elisabetta said
I was speaking metaphorically of course so what's next Julianna said
He wants to take me on a ride to his favorite place he says he has something he wants to discuss with me Elisabetta said
A proposal Julianna said
No, it's much too early for that isn't it Elisabetta said
Love at first sight often leads to short courtships Julianna said
(Squealing)
This is so exciting Julianna said
Meanwhile at the jailhouse
How do it go Thomas said
We were having such a nice evening I didn't know how to bring it up Seth said
Well, you're gonna have to do it soon you're expected in cape Fullerton within the next two weeks you could send word that you're not coming but after the fuss, you made to leave here a transfer refusal could be the end of your career Thomas said
That Monday morning at the cafe after the dinner
Hello Seth, can I get you your usual Abby said
No, I'm okay I just wanted to come by and thank you for the wonderful dinner on Saturday night Seth said
It was my pleasure I trust you had a lovely evening Abby said
Very much so can I trust you to be discreet Seth said
Yes of course what is it Abby said
Now I haven't told Elisabetta this yet but I've received some news I've been granted a new post a post I've always dreamt of having Seth said
You're leaving Valley Spring Abby said
I have orders I need to fulfill I wouldn't be gone permanently but... Seth said
But you can't be sure that things will be the same when you return Seth you're got to tell her oh just when I thought it was going to be a glorious day Abby said
Has he been bothering you I could talk to him if you like Seth said
No, I'm quite capable of rebuking his advances and I have an iron skillet that makes a fine weapon if need be Seth? what is it? Abby said
Nothing Seth said
Please tell me Abby said
Now I've done my own inquiry into this mine explosion it appears the company may have cut some corners in order to save some money corners that might have led to this disaster I don't have any hard proof yet according to my research it should have been prevented with adequate safety measures are you okay Seth said
It's just that my late husband, Noah was really locking heads with Martin Gowen a month before the explanation. He wouldn't tell me why he didn't want me to worry but I wonder could this be what that was all about? Abby said
I am so sorry if I upset you and this is not something that I would normally share so early in my investigation but I may need some help Seth said
Anything Abby said
Later that afternoon the (children speaking Indistinctly)
My feet are hurting and they're freezing can I go back to the classroom now Julianna said
You were the one who was so excited to join us on our little insect hunt Elisabetta said
Well, you could have picked a more suitable day for this Julianna said
Well, you could have picked a more suitable pair of shoes Elisabetta said
Hello constables what happens to be you by this time Julianna said
Actually, we're just out on patrol Seth and Thomas said
Well, what a happy coincidence you should just happen upon Elisabetta's class here in the forest Julianna said
Since you're here Seth maybe you have some free time to take Julianna on a tour of the surrounding countryside Elisabetta said
I would love to however I have some paperwork back at the office constable O'Reilly is free Seth said
Oh, really because I would just love to see the countryside I just need to get my riding boots Julianna said
Thank you Elisabetta said
My pleasure Thomas said
Julianna was right I'm not here by coincidence there is something I still need to talk to you about Seth said
Miss Letcher see this slimy bug I found under this rock Gawaine said
Just give me a moment just a moment please Gawaine, What was it you wanted to say Elisabetta said
Okay I'll let you get back to your slimy bug there's plenty of time for us to talk on our picnic perhaps tomorrow after class Seth said
I'll pack the food Elisabetta said
Wonderful Seth said
Meanwhile, in the countryside
Where are you going Thomas said
Into the tree Julianna said
I don't think that's a very good idea it could be a bear habitat and I am not interested messing with any grizzlies thank you very much, Thomas said
Well, where's your sense of adventure Julianna said
I left it back in my last post look we should be getting back to town anyway Thomas said
Just give me one moment stay here nature calls Julianna said
Hold it right there Nathaniel said
Don't shoot it's in my saddle bag my money Julianna said
Lady I'm not gonna rob you just calm down will Ya Nathaniel said
Oh, sorry to be so presumptuous I'm not accustomed to strange men introducing themselves by pointing a gun in my face Julianna said
You're the one who snuck in and surprised me Nathaniel said
You're bleeding Julianna said
Some men were chasing me Nathaniel said
What men Julianna
Outlaw I got away but my horse threw me and I ... I tangled in some barbed wire Nathaniel said
There's a town just a short ride away I could take you to see the company doctor Julianna said
I'll be fine Nathaniel said
Now I've read all about you rough and tumble cowboys but you can't just rub some dirt in that wound and hope it'll mend you need medical attention Julianna said
Please just... leave me be Nathaniel said
Well, I can't just let you bleed to death Julianna said
Then get me some bandages and some alcohol to keep it clean Nathaniel said
Looks like you'll need some food as well and something for the pain Julianna said
Yeah just don't go making this anyone's business in that town okay I need to know I can trust you Nathaniel said
Well, you don't really have a chance now do you Julianna said
Listen this is for your safety as much as it is mine those outlaws could still be out there so uh... you just make darn certain you're not being followed you understand Nathaniel said
I'll be back tomorrow Julianna said
Hey what's your name Nathaniel said
It's Julianna said
Julianna that's really pretty Nathaniel said
And what might yours be Julianna said
Nathaniel said
That's not some kind of alias Julianna said
No ma'am Nathaniel said
I should go Julianna said
That evening at the jailhouse
So, she just left you wanting there Seth said
For nearly an hour she said she couldn't find the appropriate place to do her business Thomas said
Clearly, you were assigned the more challenging of the Letcher sisters Seth said
I've tracked and arrange lifelong criminals who were easier to manage than she so were you able to talk to Elisabetta about your transfer Thomas said
We're going on a picnic after school tomorrow Seth said
So, you've made a decision Thomas said
Can you tell me anything about what I'm headed into Seth said
Well, we're pursuing several criminal right now the most elusive is the tolls gang Nate tolls he's the brains he's young but he's managed to outsmart the best of us Thomas said
Yeah I've heard about him how many banks have they hit Seth said
Fifteen or so across this region and it's not just banks it's trains stagecoach... anything really he's dangerous Seth thinks nothing of pulling a gun Thomas said
Well, I look forward to bringing him to justice Seth said
The next day
Would you mind raising up your shirt a little to expose the wound oh Julianna said
Can we please just get this over with don't worry about the pain just clean it up as best you can Nathaniel said
I'll have you know I don't sleep a wink last night Julianna said
I was thinking of you too Nathaniel said
I was simply worried for your safety staying out in this dirty place all by yourself hiding from god knows what Julianna said
I'm used to being on my own Nathaniel said
This injury obviously wasn't caused by barbed wire Julianna said
I'm sorry you came in here and you caught me by surprise the truth of it is the less you know about me the better for both our sakes Nathaniel said
Well, My sister is seeing an officer maybe he could track down the men who did this to you Julianna said
I said this was no one else's business especially no officer please don't leave I can explain Nathaniel said
I think maybe you were right the less I know Julianna said
My brother and his gang he um they robbed a bank Nathaniel said
I see and you're obviously part of that gang Julianna said
I never had a choice it's my older brother if it wasn't for joe we were orphans and he never quite on me so I can't quite on him Nathaniel said
But you need to break free from your brothers clutches Julianna said
Julianna he's all I got but you're right of course I have no interest in living a life of crime I've um stood between my brother and an innocent man more than one that's how I got shot Nathaniel said
Saving lives Julianna said
Mmm Nathaniel said
You're a good man Julianna said
I want to be Nathaniel said
Later that afternoon
I can see why you wanted to bring a camera this is an amazing view Elisabetta said
Yes it is they issued one of these for an investigation tool but I haven't really had much chance to use it here in Valley Spring till now Seth said
That's not fair why don't we take one of the both of us Elisabetta said
Okay come here smile Seth said
I haven't stopped since our supper Elisabetta said
One two three Elisabetta I have to talk to you about something if you recall when I first got to Valley Spring I was uh unhappy with my posting Seth said
You were furious Elisabetta said
And I put in a transfer request to cape Fullerton Seth said
You wanted to be where all the action is and you were right to be upset you were diverted from your dream Elisabetta said
And I couldn't see my purpose here Seth said
Are you saying that's changed have you found a new purpose Elisabetta said
Well, it appears my request has been granted Seth said
You have new orders Elisabetta said
Yes I am so sorry Seth said
That night at home
It's my fault he told me the truth from the beginning I always knew he was leaving it was just a matter of when he'd be transferred Elisabetta said
I have to believe he wasn't expecting his transfer to come I know he would never ask you out or pursue you Abby said
I was a diversion something to keep him occupied before he left Elisabetta said
You're correct in thinking that he had no plans to stay or to fall in love but I believe he did Abby said
If he leaves he could get hurt or killed or he could meet somebody else I might never see him again Elisabetta said
No, if you two were meant to be together then nothing will stand in your way Abby said
The next morning
Morning mountain Seth Gawaine said
Morning Gawaine, by the way, thank you for all your help last Saturday night you're going to make some young lady very happy one day Seth said
Oh, I already know who it is I knew from the moment I laid eyes on her Gawaine said
Well, you may surprise yourself your first love is rarely your last Seth said
I know you think I'm foolish for knowing who I'm going to marry being I'm so young but sometimes it happens sometimes you see a girl and your whole future is clear as a bell Gawaine said
That afternoon at the saloon
Seth Elisabetta said
I'm not going to do it I am not leaving Valley Spring Seth said
Wait but O'Reilly already here they're not going to station two officers in this sleepy little town Elisabetta said
I don't know what they're going to do but I am going to put in an official appeal to stay Seth said
But that could mean... Elisabetta said
I know Elisabetta I know that the risks are with my superiors and I'm willing to take them for you what Seth said
Seth I can't let you do that Elisabetta said
No see this is what I want Seth said
But I can't be the person who keeps you from following your dreams I can't you'd only end up resenting me Seth said
Elisabetta then is not true Seth
You may not think so now but you will the same way that I could never forgive my parents if they'd kept me from coming out west in pursuit of my dreams Seth I am so sorry you have to do this you have to go I know it in my heart and so do you Elisabetta said
The next day
Joe is that you? Nathaniel said
No, Nathaniel, it's me you're burning up Julianna said
Did you bring some medicine Nathaniel said
No not for this you might have some kind of infection Julianna said
I'm so tired I just want to sleep Nathaniel said
No, we need to get you to a doctor I have to get to Valley Spring while you're still conscious Julianna said
No Julianna I can't Nathaniel said
Meanwhile in another part of the Forest
Nate must've run off with the money for himself Psi Tolls said
You better shut your mouth or I'll tell him you were talking like that Joe Tolls said
You do that Pie tolls said
He must be in trouble and we're gonna find him hell or high-water joe said
Meanwhile in town
Before I leave I've left a file for you on some safety violations at the mine you should really look into Seth said
I will Thomas said
Also, Abby Stanton, she can be an ally to you she's been a confidence to me in the matter Seth said
Understood you have a safe journey now Seth Thomas said
Keep this town safe Thomas Seth said
I'll be sure to keep her safe too Thomas said
Thank you Seth said
That Earle night at the cafe
Abby, Elisabetta help Julianna said
Julianna Abby said
He's bleeding quite badly Julianna said
Sir, can you hear me Abby said
His name is Nathaniel Julianna said
I've given him a sedative just let him rest the doctor said
He's going to be all right Julianna said
It'll be touch and go he has sepsis lead poisoning the doctor said
From the bullet Abby said
Yes I'll be back in the morning to see how he's doing if he gets worse during the night come for me the doctor said
Yes, of course, thank you, doctor, Abby said
This isn't adding up where is this hunting partner of his Elisabetta said
Well, I don't know I found him in the forest he was delirious I barely got his name out him Julianna said
But he was able to tell you he was injured in a hunting accident Elisabetta said
Yes that's all he said you don't, believe me, Julianna said
Well, you have to admit something doesn't seem right about this young man Abby said
I hope he doesn't turn out to be trouble Elisabetta said
Seth will save us he's the hero of this story Julianna said
It's not a story it's real life it's real life with consequences and heartbreak Elisabetta said
What is it sister Julianna said
Seth's gone he took a new post he left this morning Elisabetta said
No Julianna said
The next morning at the schools
RIP whimpers softly
Seth didn't leave you he left to pursue his dream he wants to save lives, round up bad guys, and keep the word safe it's noble work and I for one am proud to know him if it's meant to be he'll come back to us if he survives and doesn't meet anyone else stop whimpering missing him this much is just plain selfish Elisabetta said
Constables Seth said
Officer can I ask you which direction you're coming from constable Sam said
Uh west of here Valley Spring Seth said
We're looking for a group of outlaws robbed a series of banks and trains constable Sam said
Ah The tolls gang Seth said
Yeah constable Sam said
I've heard of them never crosses paths though Seth said
Where are you headed constable two said
Cape Fullerton I'm being reassigned heading to my new post who knew maybe joining you on the tolls pursuit before long Seth said
You any relation to Thomas Thorndlike constable Sam said
Yeah I'm his son Seth said
Yeah I saw the resemblance I was with him in the old day's constable Sam said
What direction was the gang headed Seth said
We're not sure we got units spread out in all directions constable Sam said
For all we know tolls could be dead security guard from the last bank they hit thinks he may have winged him constable three said
Yeah well if he didn't tolls nowhere near here constable two said
Meanwhile at Abby's house
Oh, you're up Julianna said
I'm not hungry Nathaniel said
I'm going to clean you up and make you presentable well I've seen my father save and I've seen people cut hair how hard can it be Julianna said
Okay clean me up I'll look like a real gentleman for you Nathaniel said
Everyone deserves a fresh start a new beginning to new future filled with new possibilities Julianna said
How will I ever repay your kindness Nathaniel said
By turning your life around by becoming the man you were mean to be Julianna said
That is my intention with your encouragement I will be that man don't worry I trust you Nathaniel said
It's one thing to not meet up at the meet spot Pie tolls said
Maybe the Mounties got him psi tolls said
No not Nathaniel he'd never let them take him alive we Gotta keep searching joe tolls said
Yeah well I isn't stopping he's got Our money and people are gonna start dying if I get cheated out of my share Pie tolls said
Meanwhile at school
Children today we're going to learn about inertia is the stubbornness of a physical object to change its motion all right here I have two eggs one is fresh and the other is hard-boiled why do you think one egg stopped and the other one is still spinning Elisabetta said
Magic Emelina said
Actually, Emelina, it isn't magic but sometimes science can be so wonderful and amazing that it feels like magic the reason why one egg has stopped and the other is still spinning is that the fresh egg is still liquid inside and the liquid keeps moving because of the law of inertia an object in motion tends to stay in motion and an object at rest usually stays at rest Elisabetta said
I think rip is an object at rest a boy said
(As rip barks)
I think he just misses Mountie Seth Emelina said
Yes I'm sure he does we all miss people when they go away but is a different subject let's all take out our science journal
(Dear Elisabetta as promised I am writing to you I hope this finds you well the trip so far has been very interesting and exciting I met some fellow Mounties earlier today who are on the hunt for a group of dangerous bank robbery I hope to join their search soon how are things in Valley Spring I hope rip isn't being too much trouble) Seth said
Back in Valley Spring
Good afternoon gentlemen Abby said
Mrs. Sutton Richardson said
I have a delivery for Martin Abby said
Oh, he's out at the mine ma'am don't know when he'll be back Richardson said
Oh well I need to drop off his portion of last week's profits from the cafe Abby said
I can take that for you ma'am Richardson said
Well, I would like to leave it directly on his desk if you don't mind it's our agreement and I would also like to leave him some muffins and write a little note of gratitude Abby said
A few minutes later
What's taking her so long I'd better check on her you just about through there Mrs. Sutton Richardson said
Oh, I am now thank you, Abby said
Meanwhile at Abby's house
Time for breakfast I hope you're finally hungry Julianna said
You'll make somebody a fine wife someday Nathaniel said
I hope to Julianna said
Miss Letcher, I heard we had a visitation in town I wanted to come by and say hello Thomas said
Constable mighty thought of you Nathaniel said
Constable, I should have brought up some extra breakfast Julianna said
Oh no need I've already eaten I'm just here to see what we can do to help our friend find his way back home Thomas said
Nathaniel milk Nathaniel said
Nathaniel Thomas said
Well, I appreciate the offer but I'll be my way as soon as I'm strong enough to ride Nathaniel said
How's that injury of yours Thomas said
Almost healed Nathaniel said
Gunshot wound I hear how that happened Thomas said
I was us tracking a large buck through some very thick brush my friend was tracking him from a distance too must've shot at the buck and grazed me instead I blacked out and when I came to this pretty lady was there like an angel Nathaniel said
Your friend just left you there Thomas said
Don't think he realizes I got injured Nathaniel said
Where's home Thomas said
About twenty miles south of falls creek a little lumber town my people are in logging Nathaniel said
Well, you let me know if there's anything I can do to help Thomas said
Thank you, constable Nathaniel said
(Kids chattering) (Elisabetta chuckling)
How are you holding up Elisabetta Abby said
I'm wonderful Elisabetta said
We both know that's not true but you did the right thing by telling him to follow his dream Abby said
I know you're right it just feels... Elisabetta said
I know I'm concerned about that young man your sister found in the woods Abby said
I'm worried to she knows nothing about him but she's taken such a personal interest Elisabetta said
I ask constable O'Reilly to pay him a visit Abby said
Is the constable worried that he's dangerous Elisabetta said
Oh, I'm not saying that I just want to send a message loud and clear that we intend to keep our town safe and secure Abby said
I'm afraid Julianna sees all of life as a romance novel with her cast as the heroine Elisabetta said
She's young she'll learn Abby said
Perfect neat and tidy just the way I like it now people will know what we sell here good afternoon constable how's Valley Spring treating you Neil said
I need to send a telegram since they haven't fixed the telephones yet We May have a big problem on our hands Thomas said
Right Away Neil Said
Good afternoon Mrs. Sutton Martin said
Oh, good afternoon Mr. Gowen Abby said
I wanted to come by and think you for your delivery this morning Martin said
Oh, you're welcome Abby said
You brought pastries and I had to ask myself why Martin said
I was just being neighborly Abby
You sure that's all it is Martin said
I can't think of another reason Abby said
Perhaps you were hoping to see me Martin said
As I've said before Mr. Gowen, if you're attempting to be flirtations with me it is neither welcome nor appreciated Abby said
I guess you're right We are simply business partners but perhaps over time we could become friends Martin said
I doubt it but there's certainly no reason we can't be civil Abby said
Mr. Richardson how long was Mrs. Sutton alone in my office this morning Martin said
About five minutes sir Richardson said
You're being civil does that include stealing the file from my office that you have hidden underneath your red tablecloths Martin said
I know what you did Abby said
That file is my property and I'll be needing it back Martin said
You murdered my son and my husband you murdered half the men in this Town Abby said
Mr. Richardson, would you please wait for me outside Martin said
Yes sir Richardson said
Those papers prove nothing Martin said
It's evidence Abby said
Evidence of what Martin said
Men Died on your watch it proves you could have done more to keep them safe Abby said
Let me give you a little something to gnaw on Mrs. Sutton your husband whom you so cavalierly accuses me of killing was my right-hand man he was in charge of operations in the mine so if corners were cut or safety measures were not met how do you know that he was not responsible for that? how do you know that he was not responsible for the death of your son? For all of the deaths? Do you want that out in the open? Do you want the whole town to know? What happened then? Good afternoon Mrs. Sutton Martin said
The next morning
Morning Mountie Seth said
Morning office Mountie 1 said
You uh one of the units after the Strolls gang Seth said
Yeah,Yeah, we're out of Pine Springs Mountie 1 said
Ah thought so never seen so many red serge jackets and office in the span of a few days but I'd be surprised if he's still around these parts Seth said
I'm not so sure about that Mountie 2 said
Why's that? Seth said
We found his house 24 hours ago roaming through the forest west of here Mountie 2 said
What makes you so sure it's his Seth said
The blood he was wounded in his last robbery Mountie 2 said
I heard what are you doing all the way out here if you found the horseback there Seth said
Did a thorough search of the area couldn't find hide nor hair figured tolls left his horse there to throw us off his trail Mountie 1 said
Where exactly was this Seth said
Just outside of a little mining town about a day's ride from here place Valley Spring Mountie 1 said
Hay Seth said
Where are you going Mountie 1 said
Meanwhile in the town
What are you doing sorry I didn't mean to startle you Julianna said
I've imposed long enough Nathaniel said
You're going to leave without saying goodbye Julianna said
Only long enough to get myself put together get settled in a new life one you could be proud to be a part of Nathaniel said
Nathaniel, you don't know how much it means to hear you say that Julianna said
I'm sorry that was presumptuous Nathaniel said
It's all right it was meant to happen Julianna said
I'm trying to remember what happened to me it's all so confusing I lost a whole chunk of memory after I got fevered from that infection that cabin where you found me at how far is it Nathaniel said
Outside of town a few miles, Julianna said
Could you point out the general direction I left my knapsack filled with my things there's a picture of my mother in that bag Nathaniel said
How sweet of course you can borrow my house I'll draw you a map Julianna said
That'd be most kind Wait for me Nathaniel said
I will Julianna said
Sometimes later that afternoon or early evening
Elisabetta you work too much Julianna
I'm a teacher Julianna I'm just grading paper and waiting for rip to wake up from his fifth nap that dog sleeps more than any animal I've ever met besides, I'm just trying to keep busy Elisabetta said
I saw how he looked at you Seth will be back I'm sure the bonds of love are not easily broken Julianna said
Keep your voice down and love who said anything about love Elisabetta said
Well did you kiss him Julianna said
Oh, course not I've only known him a short while since We recounted and a kiss is something that comes after courtship and ...Elisabetta said
You don't need to know someone a great while to share a kiss Julianna said
What's going on with you? Elisabetta said
Whatever do you mean? Julianna said
Stop those games what is it? Elisabetta said
Well, if you must know I'm in love Julianna said
Love Elisabetta said
Mmm Julianna said
What are you talking about you found a man in The woods and now you're talking about love? Elisabetta said
I know how my heart feels Julianna said
Oh, Julianna Elisabetta said
No one's ever given him a chance I won't be another person to just turn my back on him Julianna said
I can't believe what you're saying right now you don't even know this man Elisabetta said
You don't want me to be happy Julianna said
Of course, I want you to be happy but this is absurd Elisabetta said
Why? Because he's not rich and educated Julianna said
No, it has nothing to do with that this is about a man's character and integrity Elisabetta said
You always think I'm a foolish girl Julianna said
Do you remember that man I had you look into for me Bilal Elisabetta said
Mmm-hmm Julianna said
Well he completely fooled me Seth and I were at odds at the time and I thought this man and I might have a future together anyway he turned out to be a con artist who preyed on my emotions he didn't care about me he cared about the family fortune now all I care about is that you don't get taken advantage of and heartbreak the same way I did not every man has good intentions, Julianna, what is it? Elisabetta said
I may not have told you Nathaniel's entire story Don't do this Julianna said
We have to report him Elisabetta said
No, we most certainly do not Julianna said
Well then I do Elisabetta said
It's his brother's gang. He had no choice he was orphaned when he was only five and his brother raising him and now all he wants is to become a better man and to share his life with me Julianna said
Are you even listening to yourself? What kind of life would you have? That man is a criminal Elisabetta said
This why I didn't want to tell you your don't understand Nathaniel the way that I do how can you do this to me Julianna said
To you-you may have put everyone in this town in danger Elisabetta said
Don't be so dramatic he's gone Elisabetta he can't hurt anyone if he's not here Julianna said
I have to write constable O'Reilly a note and then you and I are going to have a talk with Abby Elisabetta said
Back at the saloon
Afternoon fellas what'll it be Bartender said
Whiskey all around Pie tolls said
You just passing through or are you here to work the mine Bartender said
The mine psi tolls said
The coal mine it's about all we have to offer by way of jobs in this town Mayor Silas said
That sounds like interesting work but actually we're just passing through we're looking for a friend who might've come through here Joe Tolls said
Well, I'm the mayor and I tend to know all the important news of the day Vary few strange come to Valley Spring Mayor Silas said
It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance Mr. Mayor Joe Tolls said
There was a man involved in a hunting accident Mayor Silas said
Shot Joe Tolls said
I believe so he was mighty sick when he was found in the forest Mayor Silas said
This man where is he now we're hoping he's a friend of ours Joe Tolls said
Well last I heard he was staying over at Abby cafe just across the street the ladies are nursing him back to health Mayor Silas said
Well, we're mighty grateful for your help Mr. Mayor Pie Tolls said
Don't mention it if you're hungry get Abby to serve you her beef stew you'll be glad I recommended it Mayor Silas said
Thank you kindly Pie Tolls said
At the cafe at sunset
Honestly, Julianna Elisabetta said
I still don't see what you're getting so upset about the reason he was shot was because he was protecting someone else Julianna said
That's just what he told you we're in trouble Elisabetta said
We don't know that Julianna said
We need to find Thomas Abby said
Good afternoon ladies joe tolls said
Good afternoon gentlemen is there something we can help you with Abby said
We're looking for our friend we're told you might know where he is Pie Tolls said
If you mean Nathaniel he's already gone Abby said
Nathaniel did you hear that Joe Pie Tolls said
Gone where Joe Tolls said
Julianna if you know where he went you tell them this minute Elisabetta said
He was shot and it him some time to think and he's not interested in a life of crime anymore you need to let your brother be Julianna said
Brother Nate isn't got a brother Joe Tolls said
What Julianna said
Tie those two up and take them upstairs Joe Tolls said
Wait no Elisabetta said
This one's gonna take us to find Nate Joe Tolls said
No, you can't take her she's my sister take me instead Elisabetta said
Elisabetta Abby said
Tear this into strips and tie up the cook well take both the sisters then Joe Tolls said
Come on Pie tolls said
Meanwhile in woods
Giddyap Seth said
Muffled help Thomas said
Whoa Seth said
Muffled help Thomas said
Thomas! Are you hurt Seth said
Just my pride Nate tolls he was holed up at the cafe I followed him and he ambushed me he tired me to my horse and spooked him Thomas said
Is Elisabetta okay Seth said
I don't know Seth we got to get back to town Thomas said
Yeah Seth said
Meanwhile, in a northern part of the woods
Hay Nate psi tolls said
I know you'd show up sooner or later I see you brought some friends take that instead tie them up I buried the loot somewhere out back before I got sick grab a shovel lets dig it up Nate said
Nathaniel, I don't understand Julianna said
Julianna don't speak to that man Elisabetta said
This isn't happening this isn't happening Julianna said
Yes, Julianna, this is happening this is real now it's time to grow up and see the world as it really is Elisabetta said
I'm so sorry Elisabetta I did this I put us in this danger we're gonna probably die here Julianna said
They have no reason to kill us they'll probably just take their money and go Elisabetta said
Meanwhile in town at the cafe
Elisabetta Seth said
Seth up here Thomas said
Are you okay Seth said
Yes, Seth, I'm fine they took Elisabetta and Julianna to find that Nathaniel Abby said
Where Seth said
I don't know but Seth these men are ruthless Abby said
You took Julianna for a ride, where did you go? Seth said
I'll show you Thomas said
Be careful Abby said
We need help Seth Thomas said
I thought I know where we can find some Seth said
Meanwhile at a cabin in the woods
I like your sister she's a real lady but you're a schoolteacher right I like schoolteachers Nate said
Get away from her Julianna said
Or what Nate
I hate you Julianna said
Well now, you gone and hurt my feelings Nate said
The man who's courting my sister is a Mountie and he will come looking for her so you best leave before he finds that you took her because he'll... Julianna said
Now you're wishing me ill here I thought you really cared about me I'm all broken-hearted Nate said
Nate tolls you and your men come outside with your hands up Seth said
Seth, there's four of them and they're all armed Elisabetta said
Shut up psi tolls said
What are we gonna do now Joe Tolls said
Stop fretting there's only one Mountie one Mountie a joke against us Nate said
Come on Nate said
Elisabetta Julianna said (as pie grams her)
I got your woman Mountie so I don't think we're gonna be taking any orders from you Nate said
There's a dozen Mounties in these woods and they got their rifles aimed at of you right now Seth said
Nate, they're everywhere Pie said
So, what they're Mounties they'll never fire as long as we have these women Nate said
You're right Nate so here's what we're gonna do easy I'm gonna take out my weapon and I'm gonna drop it now you let these women go and my men will do the same Seth said
Soon as I do that I lose all my leverage so forget it Nate said
Tell your men to drop their weapons or my men start shooting Seth said
Pet them down we got no choice it's a fake Nate said
That's right Seth said
Seth, he has a knife Elisabetta said
Seth are you hurt Elisabetta said
No Seth said
In the morning
At the cafe
I can't believe I was so stupid Julianna said
He played on your innocence and goodness Abby said
I was a fool I know that now I'll never let myself be that easily used again Julianna said
Thank the lord we're all okay Elisabetta said
And thank the Lord for sending the Mounties Julianna said
Yes Elisabetta said
He came back for you Julianna said
Hmm he comes back for the town it's his job Elisabetta said
He didn't have to come back Julianna said
Well, he'll be escorting them to prison and then I'm sure he'll head to his new posting after that Elisabetta said
Thanks, Seth you know what you and O'Reilly did out there was very brave there's a lot of men trying to capture the bunch Sam said
We got lucky plus it's what we trained for Seth said
Well, I don't think that tablecloth maneuver was part of your training getting the hours in red to surround them like that was truly inspired you know you're gonna get your pick of assignments after this arrest mark your career well anyway I'm glad I was here to see it and I'm glad I'll get to deliver these men to justice with you because this is my last assignment yeah got a little cabin up in the mountains here I'm gonna be fishing and hunting till my last day thanks again Sam said
Sam if you could go back if you could do it all over again would you choose this life will living on the road and not setting down and having a family Seth said
You can't go back that's not part of the deal Sam said
I guess it's the path we're chosen right Seth said
You know I was at your father's funeral I remember thinking he was a truly rich man he got a good woman and a fine son to weep over him and remember him that's true wealth, Sam Said
Well, he was a great father Seth said
I only hope when I draw my last breath there's someone there who cares enough to feel that way about me okay let's go Sam said
Well, you excuse me for a moment Julianna said
Where are you going feel better Elisabetta said
Somewhat Julianna said
I'll catch up with you Abby Seth said
Seth, I found a file actually I didn't find it I stole it from Gowen's office Abby said
For the record I do not condone stealing but on a personal note I'm quite impressed Seth said
I think it's proof that corners were cut it's not clear who authorized the cuts or who implemented them my late husband might have even missed something Abby said
And you fear he knew more about it then you thought he did Seth said
But the truth is the truth no matter how it plays out and everyone in this town deserves to know what really happened Abby said
I'll contact an investigator I know in Santa Clarita and we'll see where this takes us Seth said
Thank you Seth, Abby said
Your welcome Seth said
Seth Elisabetta said
When I was out there and I thought that you were in trouble ... when I thought there was even a chance that you were in danger and I wasn't here... Seth said
You can't be everywhere you saved all of us Elisabetta said
I want you to know that I had nothing on my mind but getting back to you Seth said
Really Elisabetta said
I was so focused on doing my job doing what I was trained to do chasing bad guys look I don't know what's gonna happen next I don't know where I'm gonna be tomorrow but I don't want to regret not telling you what I was thinking what I was... what I am feeling I can't leave without telling you that... Seth said
Yes Elisabetta said
I care I care that you're safe Seth said
I'm good Elisabetta said
I have to go and escort these men to trial Seth said
I understand Elisabetta said
There are forms to fill out and paperwork Seth said
Oh, course Elisabetta said
So, I need to go Seth said
I know Elisabetta said
I'll see you soon Seth said
You Will Elisabetta said
That night at the cafe
Remember when we were little and I afraid of the monsters that lived under the bed Julianna said
I remember well I agreed to stay up all night and keep a lookout for them Elisabetta said
The only reason I felt safe was because I trusted you to take care of me Julianna said
I'm your big sister it was my job to protect you Elisabetta said
I always felt safe when you were there Julianna said
You know as soon as you fell asleep I went to sleep too Elisabetta said
Really yes I guess that makes sense Julianna said
It's been a long few days go to sleep now Elisabetta said
Thank you for taking care of me I should've listened to you I was a fool to believe that horrible man Julianna said
We all make mistakes Elisabetta said
Thank you for being my big sister Julianna said
Thank you for being my little sister Elisabetta said
Will you stay up and watch out for monsters Julianna said
I will, I feel as though I've lived a year these past few days I've never felt so frightened in my life but my fear pales in comparison to how safe I felt in Seth's arms when he came to my rescue it makes me realize that sometimes we need heroes in our lives and sometimes for the people we love we actually have to become the hero Elisabetta said