Storm to the Past: A Time Travel Western (6 page)

Abagail looked up from his chest into his eyes and shared a gentle kiss. 

Abagail pulled away and smiled at Adam.

“Don’t worry,” she told him. “I’m not going anywhere, but we do need to get going.”

Adam released Abagail and helped her onto the wagon seat. Then he went back and picked up his jacket with the snake in it.

“What are you going to do with that snake?” 

“We can’t leave it here near the trail. Someone may not be as lucky as we were. I’ll drop it off down the road out of harm’s way.”

Adam climbed up beside Abagail and put the jacket in a crate by his feet.

Abagail used the reigns and gently tapped the horses and off they went.

“There, the wagon wheel is fixed so we should have smooth sailing the rest of the way.”

“Adam tonight I have to set up the barn dance for tomorrow night? Would you like to help us set up?”

“Any chance I get to spend time with you. I’m there.”

CHAPTER TEN

Abagail blushed and took Adam’s hand in hers. She said, “Once we get over this hill, we will be able to see the village. When they reached the top of the hill, Adam looked and saw the village. It was like something out of a history book. He saw children playing and the elders talking. As the wagon went down the hill toward the village, the men came out to meet them.

“I have brought the supplies, as promised my father. I am sorry that he could not come. but he was busy with other matters.”

The men unloaded the wagon and thanked her and Adam for the supplies, food and medicine. 

Abagail said, “We wish to stay longer, but we have to get back to town.”

Goodbyes were said and they headed back to town.

Adam saw a nice spot away from the trail and said, “Let’s stop for a second. He jumped off the wagon, picked up the jacket, walked out a little ways and gently untied his jacket. He did a flicking motion throwing the snake out into the field.

He ran back to the wagon and got up on to the seat beside Abagail as she slapped the reins and the horses took off at a steady trot. Abagail parked the wagon in front of the sheriff’s office.

“Thank you again for coming with me today and saving my life.”

“I had a great time. At least until the snake showed up. And then it was wonderful after that. What time do you want to meet tonight to help set up for the barn dance?”

“Seven P.M. and the location has changed. We’re going to have it at Wesley place this year, just down the road about a mile from here.”

“I’ll be there.”

Adam gently kissed Abagail’s hand and said, “I’ll see you tonight.” He climbed down from the wagon and went inside.

Waving, Abagail headed the wagon toward home.

Nate was straightening up some papers when Adam entered.

“How was your trip?” Nate asked.

“It was nice. How’s everything here?”

“I brought the prisoners food, then listened to them complain. You know I was starting to get worried about you?”

“Why?” he asked.

“The weekend is coming up and I’m heading out. After I’m gone, you’ll be all alone. Are you sure you don’t want to go back with me?”

“I’m sure. I’m happier than I’ve ever been. Don’t worry, I’ll be okay. I’m a little concerned about you though.”

“I’ve been sailing for years and I’m not gonna let no storm get the best of me.”

“I know you’ll be alright. Even without me watching out for you, keeping you out of trouble.”

“Wait a minute. I thought I was the one watching out for you.”

They both laughed and hugged one another.

“I’m going to miss you Nate, but I was never really happy there. And you belong there.”

“Hey, before I forget to tell you, I’ve got a telegram for you.”

Adam opened the telegram and it said the district court judge would be in today, by stage coach at three P.M. He checked his pocket watch. It was 2:50.

“What did it say?”

“The judge is coming by stage today to try the men we have locked up. I better go and go meet him. He will be here in ten minutes.

Adam stepped out the door and to his surprise, the stagecoach was stopping in front of the office. The door opened and two U.S Marshalls stepped out and then Judge Joseph Peters.

“Hello sir,” said Adam extending his hand. “Thank you for coming so quickly.”

“It’s my job to keep law and order in these parts and when someone threatens officers of the law, I take that very seriously. Let’s go inside and bring the prisoners out in front of me.”

Adam showed the Judge inside while the two Marshalls followed. Adam introduced Nate to the Judge.

“Okay, Sheriff, we need to move things along. I have to be in Clinton by night fall. I have a murder trial tomorrow morning. So please, get the prisoners and we will get these proceedings under way.”

“Yes, your Honor.”

Adam and Nate went back to the cells and brought out the four men. The Judge is sitting behind Adam’s desk when they return. He has a folder with the men’s information in it telling of the crimes they were being accused of.

The Judge begins, “Three of you men are accused of plotting to kill a law man and you, sir, turning to Liam’s friend Christopher. “You tried to run down a child while on horseback. How do you all plead?”

“Not guilty,” they said in unison.

“Your plea of not guilty is noted in my records. I have read your files and the statement the sheriff has given and witness statements as well. Most of you have a colorful past. After weighing all the facts, I find you all guilty and sentence you to three years of hard labor in the territorial penitentiary.”

The men started to argue. The Judge said, “Enough. Marshalls put these men in shackles and take them to the train station where two more marshals are waiting for them.”

They shackled the men and Nate helped escort them to the train. The conductor gave the all clear and the train left the station.

So, Sheriff, do you have any thoughts or opinion on how I handled things?”

“I’ve never seen anything like that before. Where I’m from the law is a little different. I’m learning things are a little different here.”

“Well,” the judge said. “I believe in the law and if you break it you pay the price. Some say I’m too strict, but I believe this country is changing and the days of lawlessness is coming to an end. I intend to be a force for Justice and I will do what I have to.”

“I believe you’re right and I can envision a future where that will happen. It may not be tomorrow, but I feel it coming.”

“I like that. A man of vision is hard to find these days. I’m sorry to go, but I have a trial waiting for me. Maybe if I’m back this way I’ll stop in and visit when I have more time.”

The judge carried his bags and went out the door, where the two marshals met him. They got back on the stagecoach and the driver hollered and the team pulled the stage out of town.

“Remind me not to get on that judge’s bad side,” Nate said.

“That’s for sure. I’m glad he’s on the side of law and order. At least this sends a message to the people. If you break the law, this is what will happen.”

Across the street at the saloon, Liam and his friend Jeffrey had been watching the whole time.

“We lost some good men today. This sheriff is more than what we bargained for.”

“The sheriff is a dead man. I swear before this weekend is over he’ll be full of holes.”

“Come on, Liam. Let’s just move on. We had a good run, but there’s something different about this man. He wouldn’t back down from you. Hell, he don’t even carry a gun. There’s something not right about him. I say we cut our ties and move on. I know a small town where we can start over.”

“No way. This is my town. I’m not gonna be run out of my town.”

“Alright Liam, fine. What do you want to do then?”

“We’ll send the sheriff a message starting tonight. You hear me?”

“Yes, I hear you, Liam.”

“Good. Go find Victor and meet me back here at six. I’ll fill you in when you get back. I promise you this before this week is through, he will be a dead man, but first I’ll have some fun and break his spirit. Now get going.”

Jeffrey headed out of the saloon, got on his horse and rode out of town.

Liam sat there, his face twisted in a wicked grin and drank another shot, then said to himself, “Sheriff, I hope you like games, ‘cause I do.” He poured another glass of whiskey.

Adam had just finished cleaning the cells when Nate walked in.

“Hey, are you forgetting something?”

I don’t think so.”

“It’s almost seven P.M. Aren’t you supposed to help with the barn dance?”

“Yeah, but I’m going to make one round before I head out.

“I’ll take care of that. You go and help Abagail. You know you want to. I got this covered.”

“Are you sure?”

“Go on man. I got this. No big deal. I’ll meet you guys there after I check everything around here.

Thanks Nate. He stepped outside, got on his horse and headed to meet Abagail at Wesley place.

After Nate finished cleaning the rest of the office, he looked at the clock on the wall. Eight O’clock. He said to himself, “I better make the rounds and make sure everything is locked up, then I’ll head over and see how the setup is going. As he walked out of the office he locked the door, then headed down the sidewalk checking all the doors. Across the street Liam steps out of the saloon and tips his hat. Jeffrey steps from behind a wagon starts to follow Nate.

Nate keeps walking along the street checking the doors until he gets to the end of the sidewalk. He cuts across the street and starts and starts back up the other side.  As he reaches the general store, he hears someone say. “Hey Deputy.” He stops and sees someone down the alley.

“Can I help you?” he asked, peering down the alley.

“Yeah. I got a message for you.” Nate saw the man reach for his gun, so he dove forward causing the man’s shot to miss. Nate quickly jumps up, reached for his gun, then he feels a sharp pain across his hand. He drops his gun to the ground. As he turns he sees a second man with a bull whip. He tries to make a run for it, but the man with the whip catches Nate’s ankle, tripping and sending him to the ground face first. Nate’s heart is pounding, he’s so scared and in pain. Nate heard the two men laughing. 

“Get up, Deputy. We ain’t done with you, yet. The fun is just starting.”

Nate tries to get up, but Jeffrey uses the whip again, swinging it around Nate’s neck, yanking it back, pulling Nate to the ground. Nate is gasping for air because the whip is wrapped around his neck cutting off his breathing. Nate reached into his coat, pulls out his Swiss Army Knife and cuts the whip from around his throat.  Nate looks at the general store window and knew it was his only chance. He jumps up and dives through the window shattering it and sending glass flying everywhere. His hands got cut up a little, but he was off the street.

“Do you think diving threw a glass window will save you? Victor, let the lead fly.”

Victor started firing into the general store. Nate was lying flat on the floor desperately thinking of what he could do to save his life? “Damn it! Think man.” He saw a case of whiskey on the floor and remembers the old TV shows where men made cocktail bombs out of alcohol. He found some rags, tore them up, popped open a bottle of whiskey and soaked the rags in whiskey. He then jammed the rags into the bottles. He pulled his lighter out of his pocket and said, “Okay, boys, you want to play? Let’s play.” He lit the rag and tossed the bottle out the window. It hit the ground next to them and exploded, sending Jeffrey and Victor to the ground.

“What the hell was that?” Jeffrey yelled.

“I don’t care. Just keep shooting.”

Nate threw a second bottle out the window directly at Victor. It exploded in front of the man and the flames caught his jacket on fire. Victor ripped it off throwing it to the ground.

“To hell with this,” he yelled. “I’m out of here. If Liam wants this deputy dead, so bad, he can do it himself.”

“I’m not gonna argue with you, Let’s get out of here.”

As the two men made a run for it, Nate tossed out one more bottle and it exploded sending the men to the ground again. They quickly jumped up, made it to their horses and rode out of there like death was after them.

Nate got to his feet, staggering out of the store into the street. He fell to his knees feeling very dizzy.

The mayor, the doctor and a bunch of men ran over to Nate and asked, “What happened?”

Nate explained and said, “I don’t feel so good,” and passed out. The doctor caught him and told some men, “Get him to my office now.”

The men took Nate to the doctor’s office and the mayor sent someone to get Adam.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Adam and Abagail had just finished setting up the barn with Owen and a few others helping.

“This was a lot of fun,” Adam told Abagail. “I really enjoyed helping.”

“I’m glad. It’s going to be a lot of fun tomorrow night.”

“Sheriff! Sheriff Adam! I’m looking for the sheriff.”

“I’m here. What’s wrong?” Adam asked the rider.

“The deputy’s been hurt. Some men tried to kill him. He’s at the doctor’s office.”

Adam looked at Abagail. She said, “Go. We’ll be right behind you.”

Adam ran to his horse, jumped in the saddle and took off. He pushed the horse hard all the way to town. He stopped at the doctor’s office, jumped off his horse and hurried inside. He saw the mayor and doctor talking. “What’s going on? Where’s Nate?” he asked the two men.

“It’s alright, Adam. Nate’s going to be okay. He has a few cuts and bruises, but he will recover.”

I’ve given him something to help him rest,” the doctor told Adam. “If you go in now, you can see him before the medicine takes effect.”

“Thank you,” said Adam rushed into the room where Nate was lying on a cot.

Nate opened his eyes and saw Adam.

“Nate, I’m so sorry,” Adam told him. “I should have been here.”

“It wasn’t your fault, don’t let my bruises and cuts fool you, I’m okay. Them varmints just caught me by surprise, but in the end, I used my wits and outsmarted them. They took off like a couple of scared rabbits.”

Nate tried to laugh, but his eyes were becoming heavy, so he closed his eyes and fell asleep.

“You rest up pal,” Adam said quietly. “I’ll set things straight.”

He saw Abagail and Owen talking with the doctor. The doctor was saying, “He will be fine. He just needs to rest. Oh, he will be a little sore, but he will have a full recovery.”

“Thank God,” Abagail exclaimed, walking to Adam and taking his hand.

Adam said, “I know what happened and I’m going to deal with that man right now.”

Owen spoke up and said, “Not tonight, Son. That’s what Liam wants? If you rush out there upset the way you are right now, you won’t be thinking straight and that’s exactly what Liam wants.”

“Listen to Dad, please Adam. You know he’s right about this.”

“You’re right, I’ll wait.”

Abagail tugged on Adam’s hand, “Let’s go over to your office. Nate’s in good hands. Doc Phillips won’t leave his side, plus the mayor has assigned men to stand guard outside the door. Come on, let’s go.”

Abagail said, “Dad is going to head home tonight and won’t be back until the morning. I’m going to stay here with you.”

“Are you sure?” Adam asked.

“My place is by your side,” she said. “You need me and I want to be here.”

Adam took her in his arms and kissed her gently on the lips. Abagail said, “Come on, you go and lie down. I’ll be in the next room if you need anything.”

Adam went to bed and Abagail blew out the lanterns and went to bed in the next room. Adam tossed and turned for a while and finally drifted off to sleep.

He awoke to the smell of eggs. He got up, dressed and went into the office. Abagail and Owen were sitting at Adam’s desk with a basket.

“Good morning, Said Abagail. “Did you get much sleep?”

“A little. I tossed and turned for a while, then finally dozed off. What’s this?” Indicating the basket.

“Father made breakfast for us and it is a wonderful surprise.”

“It’s not as nice as what you make, just bacon and eggs. I thought you might want something to eat.”

“Thank you, Owen. That was very nice of you. I am hungry and after we eat, I’m going over and check on Nate.”

“I already checked and he is up and ready to go. Doc has told him to take it easy. I also dropped off some food for him as well.”

“I’m glad he’s doing better,” Adam said. “Thank God.”

“Let’s eat,” Abagail said. “Before it gets cold.”

When they were finished with the meal, Abagail said, “I better go home and get the food ready for the dance tonight. I know the Wesley’s will need help.”

“I’ll go with you, Abagail,” Owen said. “We’ll see you later, Adam.”

“See you later.”

After Abagail and Owen left, Adam headed to the doctor’s office. He opened the door and heard Nate arguing with the doctor.

“I said, I’m leaving. I feel fine.”

“Doc,” Adam said. “I’ll keep an eye on him.”

“Okay, fine, but don’t do anything too stressful,” the doctor told them. “You need rest.”

“I promise, Doc,” Nate told him.

“Let’s get you out of here,” Adam said to Nate.

“Can you help me put my boots on? I can’t bend over too good. I guess that happens when you get your butt kicked and jump through a glass window and whatever I landed on.”

“Were you able to get a look at them?”

“It was too dark, but I can guess who sent them.”

“I can too.”

“I’m worried for you Man. I’m leaving and you’ll be all alone. Come with me, please?”

“I can’t go with you. My place is here. I’ll sort all this out. But right now let’s get you over to the office, so you can rest.”

“You talked me into it, but later on I’m going with you to that barn dance, so I can tell everyone goodbye.”

“You sure you feel up to it?”

“Absolutely. Now let’s get to the office. I need to sit down. My back is hurting.”

Nate limped, but made it across the street to the office. Adam pulled out a chair for him and Nate sat down and put his feet up on the desk.

“Oh yeah. That feels much better.”

“Can I get you anything?”

“I’m fine. You need to relax. That’s what I’m going to do. Just relax here for a minute and catch my breath.”

Adam looked out the window and when he turned back Nate had dozed off. 

“You rest my friend and feel better. I’ll be right back.”

Adam saw Mayor Jonathan walking across street toward him.

“Good morning, Mayor.”

“Good morning, Adam. How’s Nate doing?”

“He will be okay, just a little sore. He’s taking a nap inside. I thought I’d stretch my legs. Give him a chance to sleep.”

“You do realize what happened last night wasn’t your fault? You’ve been doing a great job. People aren’t afraid to walk outside. Thanks to you.” 

“I know it’s not my fault, but I’m still upset. Liam did it. I know he did.”

“Yes, but can you prove it?”

“No, I can’t prove it, but I will get him one way or another. He will answer for his crimes.”

“Be careful. I’m afraid you’re heading for a showdown and you don’t carry a gun. I’m afraid it won’t go good for you.”

“I can take care of myself. It’ll be alright.”

“Will you be at the dance today?”

“I’ll be there. Nate wants to go and say goodbye to everyone.”

“Nate’s leaving? I didn’t know that.”

“Yes. He wants to go home.”

“He will be missed. He seems like a nice guy. Well, I better be going. I’ve got a lot to get done before tonight.”

Adam went back inside and Nate was walking around.

“How are you feeling?”

“Better, but whatever the doctor gave me has worn off.”

“You do seem to be getting around a little better.”

“I’m bruised, but I’ll mend.”

Adam saw Nate rub his neck and wrist.

“I’m sorry this happened to you, Nate.”

“Not your fault. What time are you going to get ready for the dance?”

“Abagail sent some clothes for us. We can get dressed now if you want to.”

“Abagail has good taste in women’s clothing. Bad taste in men’s clothes. Laughing. “I’m just joking. I’m happy you two found each other.”

“How did you know about us?”

“Everyone knows. “You can see it in the way you look at each other. You both light up when you’re together. I’m very happy for you.”

“Thanks Man. We better get going. Owen left his buggy for us. It’ll be easier for you.”

“Sounds good. Let’s get going.”

Adam held the door for Nate, then helped him into the buggy. He climbed up in the buggy beside Nate and they started down the road. Adam did his best to make the ride as comfortable as possible, trying to miss every bump. When they arrived, he stopped the horses and put on the brake. Nate slowly climbed down from the buggy and they walked inside. The barn was filled with all kinds of homemade decorations. There were tables with white table clothes filled with tasty looking food. There was a group of musicians playing fiddles and guitars. Everyone was having a nice time.

As soon as Abagail saw Nate and Adam enter, she came over to meet them.

“I’m glad to see you, Nate. I hope you are feeling better?”

“I’m doing better. Thank you for asking.”

Owen came up and said, “Let me get you a seat Nate.”

“Thank you, but it actually feels better if I stand.”

Abagail said, looking both of them up and down, “You two look very handsome tonight.”

“Thank you,” Adam said, smiling at her. “You look beautiful.”

The Band started to play a slow tune. “Abagail, would you care to dance? I’m not very good, but if you like to give it a try, I’d love to dance with you?”

“I’d love to and don’t worry about it. Let’s just have fun.”

“Will you be okay, Nate?”

“I’ll keep him company,” Owen said. “Go and dance with my daughter.”

“Yeah,” Nate said. Get out there before someone else steals her away.”

Adam took Abagail in his arms and the two began to dance. After a few seconds they were lost in each other’s eyes. Adam’s heart was beating fast and Abagail laid her head on Adam’s shoulder. When the song ended, they kissed.

“It’s about time you two finally admitted you like each other,” Owen said to them. “We all knew already.”

Abagail exclaimed, “You knew Father?”

“My daughter. I’ve known since the first moment you two sat down together and talked. You were instantly connected. I couldn’t be happier for both of you.”

“We’re so happy you approve.”

Nate said, “Me and Owen were talking while you were dancing and wondered when you admit you’re a couple.”

“While you two laugh at us, Abagail and I are going to dance again.”

They began to dance and Adam felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned to see Liam standing there. 

“It’s about time the lady danced with a real man.”

Adam’s face turned red. Abagail said, No, Adam. Don’t. Let’s go.”

“That’s right, boy you better let your woman tell you what to do. It’s the only thing saving you from the embarrassment of me beating your brains out here in front of everybody.”

“Just ignore him,” begged Abagail. “Come on. You’re better than him.”

Abagail took Adam’s arm and they turned and walked away. Adam took Abagail to her wagon to make sure she got out of there safe. Owen went with Nate to the buggy, but Liam caught up with them before they got there.

Liam looked at Nate and smirked, “Hello Deputy. Are you more of a man than your coward friend, Adam?”

“Why don’t you back off?” Nate said calmly.

“Why don’t you make me, Deputy or are you going to let a woman do your talking too?”

Owen spoke to Liam, “Can’t you see he’s not in shape to fight? Thanks to your goons.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about, Old Man. I did hear about it though. I was playing cards with friends at the saloon. If you would like to step in for Nate and take a shot at me, I’d love to knock you down a peg or two.”

Nate said, “Leave him alone. Your fight isn’t with him.”

“Since you’re hurting so bad, I’ll give you the first shot. Go ahead. Right here. Liam stuck his chin out and closed his eyes.

Owen said, “Don’t do it, Nate.” 

“So, you’re a coward just like your friend. I guess there ain’t no real men left in this town.”

Nate through a right cross at Liam hitting him as hard as he could. Liam took a step back, turned his head, rubbed his jaw and laughed.

“That all you got? You’re in for a world of hurt, little man.”

Liam hit Nate’s bruised ribs. Nate gasped for air and leaned over in pain. Liam hit him with a jab and a right cross sending Nate to the ground.

Nate tried to get up, but his ribs were killing him. Owen stepped in and said, “Stop! Liam, he’s had enough.”

Liam grabbed Owen by his collar and tossed him aside.

Nate lying on the ground spitting blood said, “Liam, don’t touch him. Your fight is with me.”

Nate forces himself to get to his feet.

“Now that’s more like it,” sneered Liam.

Nate took a swing at Liam, but Liam sidestepped and elbowed him in the side. Then he grabbed Nate’s hair and kneed him in the gut, hit him with an uppercut sending Nate sailing to the ground again. He stood over Nate laughing.