WARNING: The last few chapters
deal with the sensitive subject of homosexuality. Nothing crude, vulgar
The
More The Merrier
Having seen the Wilkins off with a wagon laden with
supplies, the Lancers began a new year together.
Murdoch started packing for his trip. He had less
than two weeks before leaving and he wasn't even sure what to take. Knowing it
would be cold helped with his clothing choices but he wanted to take some
mementos to show his family.
As he looked through some photographs, he heard a
light tapping on his door. "Come in."
Teresa stepped into the room and closed the door.
"How's it going?"
"Oh, fine. Just deciding what to take with
me," Murdoch smiled.
The young girl returned the smile and walked slowly
about the room. Her fingers threaded through the curtain and then let it fall
away. She dusted the sill with one finger, smiling when it came back clean.
"Something on your mind,
sweetheart?" Murdoch asked.
She turned to face him, taking a deep breath.
Squaring her shoulders, she set her chin in determination. "I want to talk
to you about your trip."
"Alright."
"Murdoch, I think ..... well,
you should... I think you should take Scott and Johnny with you." She
sighed as her shoulders sagged with relief. She'd said it, now she was ready
for the argument.
He studied her face calmly. "Who will run the
ranch?"
"Jelly and Cipriano.
And I can help, too. You know the winter months are slower. The herd is already
in the winter pastures so there's really no reason not to take them. This trip
would be so good for all three of you," she said hurriedly.
He nodded his head, deep in thought. "What if
we can't get more tickets?"
"Well, maybe you could trade in your ticket
for another one. I'm sure there are ships going to
"They probably wouldn't want to go," he
argued quietly.
"Oh, yes they would. I know they would,"
she stated emphatically. "If it's the money, I have some savings."
Murdoch cocked a brow and smiled at her enthusiasm.
"Maybe we should ask them before we go spending all your money."
She smiled widely and hugged him tight then skipped
from the room.
He watched her go, a smile of pure love on his
face. He had thought about it, of course. Still, he'd been hesitant to suggest
it to the boys. Why, he couldn't say. The thought of taking them to his
homeland was a dream come true.
********
That evening at dinner, Teresa kept shooting
Murdoch looks. He tried to ignore her, knowing it would infuriate her but
unable to help himself from teasing just a bit.
She finally rose and announced she would get
dessert. As she passed him, she managed to brush heavily against his shoulder.
"What's the matter with her? She's as jumpy as
a kitten," Johnny asked.
Murdoch chuckled. "Oh, she wants me to bring
something up. Let's wait until she comes back," he winked.
Johnny shrugged and glanced at Scott who also
shrugged. Teresa returned with an apple pie and sat it unceremoniously on the
table. Taking her seat, she folded her hands in her lap and glared at Murdoch.
"Alright, sweetheart, alright," he
laughed. "Our Teresa has come up with what I think is a brilliant idea.
She wants you both to go to
Johnny and Scott exchanged surprised looks.
"Who's going to take care of the ranch?" Scott asked.
"Jelly and Cipriano are capable and, of
course, Teresa will be here."
"It's a little late. I mean, we went through ..... a lot to make this
happen. We can't just up and decide to go in less than two weeks," Johnny
said.
"I don't see why not? If you can't get tickets
for the ship Murdoch's on, he can change his and you can find one with room for
all three of you," Teresa protested.
Scott looked doubtfully at her. "I don't know,
Teresa. Maybe."
"Alright.
If you get to
"Why are you pushin
so hard for this?" Johnny asked her.
"Because, I think it's important that you both
know that part of your heritage. The part you both share. And, the three of you
need time together away from the ranch and all the work. Anyway, don't you want
to meet your family?"
"What do you say, boys?" Murdoch asked.
Looking at each other again, they both smiled.
"Sure, why not?" Scott said.
"Should be different, at least," Johnny
grinned.
"Good! I'll go into town tomorrow and get the
stage and train tickets," Murdoch smiled.
******
Teresa spent the next several days making sure
Scott and Johnny's clothes were suitable. She even made them both go into
Riding back from town after their shopping trip,
Johnny wondered aloud. "The way she's actin,
you'd think she couldn't wait to get rid of us."
"I was thinking the same thing, brother. Maybe
Teresa needs a break from us," Scott smiled.
"I've never been to another country,"
Johnny said.
Scott looked over at him with a raised brow.
"What would you call
Johnny's face reddened a bit. "You know what I
mean. To me,
Scott nodded. "Well, I've been to
"They do speak English there, don't
they?"
Scott frowned. "I'm sure they do. Yes, they
must."
Johnny frowned as well. He'd have to ask Murdoch
about that. He still couldn't believe he was making this journey. Part of him
was excited, part of him reluctant.
Scott felt some reluctance as well but he was used
to traveling in other countries. He was looking forward to meeting their
uncles, aunts and cousins. He thought this would be the perfect opportunity to
get some insight into their father.
"Johnny, you realize how important this trip
is, don't you?"
Johnny looked over at him with a frown. "You
mean because we'll get a chance to see how the old man was as a kid? Or, that
we'll get to meet our family? Or, maybe because it's what
Murdoch wants? Or, that it'll give us a chance to really get to know
him?"
"Okay, okay. You do know how important it
is," Scott said with exasperation.
Johnny grinned at his brother. "There's
something else, too. I get to see
"We won't be there long enough for that!"
Scott declared adamantly.
"We'll see," he shrugged.
Teresa thoroughly inspected each article of
clothing they had bought. They both sighed with relief when she approved. No
woman had ever had the effect on either of them that this young one did.
********
It was
Johnny stumbled into the kitchen and plopped down.
He grabbed the cup of coffee placed before him and took a long drink before
whispering, "thank you."
"Are you alright?" Murdoch asked with
amusement.
"Sure. Just earlier than
usual to be up."
"I know but if we want to make the
stage...."
"Yeah.
I hope we're the only ones on it. I'd like to take a nap."
Scott laughed a little but he had to agree. If
Johnny had spent the night he had, he knew why his brother was so muddled. The
excitement had caught up with him and Scott had found it nearly impossible to
fall asleep.
"Good morning!" Teresa sang as she flew
into the room. She was met by grumbles all around.
"Now is that any way to start your trip?"
she asked, hands on hips.
"Sorry, querida.
We'll wake up in a minute," Johnny smiled wanly.
She smiled and kissed his cheek, then Murdoch's,
then Scott's. She made her way back around to her seat.
"What are you planning on doing while we're
all gone?" Murdoch asked.
"Oh, nothing special. Just some cleaning and sewing. I might visit some friends
and I have a new book I've been dying to get to."
"See? I told you she was trying to get rid of
us," Johnny grinned.
She smacked his arm and smiled. "I'll admit,
it will be nice to have some alone time. But I'll miss you all terribly. Just
promise you'll have a good time."
"We promise, darling. Now, I think I'll check
with Jelly on the surrey," Murdoch excused himself.
*******
They loaded their bags into the back of the surrey
and Johnny took off for the barn. Murdoch was going over everything in his mind
and was finally satisfied he'd covered it all with Jelly.
He looked around, suddenly realizing he was missing
a son. "Where's Johnny?"
"Where do you think? In the barn," Scott
grinned.
Murdoch rolled his eyes and sighed. "Well,
would you get him? I don't want to be late."
Scott laughed and went after his errant brother.
"Now, Jelly's gonna ride you every day. He
promised. And he's gonna rub you down just like I do. Well, almost. I'll be
gone for a long time but don't worry about me. This is a good trip and me and
Scott are gonna meet some relatives. Murdoch's taking us to
"Ahem. If you're quite through," Scott
said from the barn door.
Johnny looked up and grinned. "I had to
explain it to him so he wouldn't worry about me."
"Of course.
That makes perfect sense to me. But Murdoch is ready to go." Scott raised
an eyebrow and Johnny knew what that meant.
"Okay, Barranca. I'm leaving now. I will be
back, I promise. Be good for Jelly and let him work ya. He's good with you,
just remember that," he instructed as he scratched the palomino's ear.
"Johnny!"
"I'm comin!" He
walked to the door and looked back one more time. Barranca bobbed his head and nickered a goodbye.
Teresa hugged and kissed them all and said a teary
goodbye as she waved them off.
Once under the gate, Murdoch sighed. "I was
beginning to think we were never going to get underway."
"Ya got plenty of time, Boss," Jelly
assured him.
******
They did have plenty of time, a full hour, before
the stage was due to leave. Johnny sat on a bench in the stage depot and nodded
off, hat pulled low over his eyes.
Scott watched him with a pang of jealousy. He'd
like to nap, too. But Murdoch was talking his head off about anything he could
think of. Scott was amused at his father's excitement.
Mercifully, the stage was a few minutes early.
Scott woke Johnny and they loaded their luggage. Pete, the stage driver, looked
on curiously.
"Are ya comin
back?" he grinned.
"Don't know, Pete. Maybe not," Johnny
smiled.
"We might get there and decide we never want
to leave," Scott supplied.
"Get where?" the old man asked.
"
"No foolin? That's
some trip. Well, climb on in and let's get ya on yer
way," Pete laughed.
All three men smiled with relief when they found
themselves the only passengers. Johnny pulled his feet up on the bench opposite
him, between his father and brother. He pulled his hat back down and crossed
his arms over his chest.
"Comfortable, brother?"
Scott grinned.
"Yep.
Now, you two be quiet so I can get some sleep,"
he mumbled.
Scott kicked his leg and settled down himself.
Murdoch figured he may as well join them. He was too excited to really sleep
but it was going to be a very long trip.
*******
They arrived in
"Whew! I sure wouldn't want to do this every
day!" Johnny proclaimed as they settled into their car.
"Neither would I. But it's always the same
when you travel. Though, usually, it's hurry and get
there then wait for the train or stage or whatever," Scott smiled.
"Well, you know more about that,
Murdoch chuckled. "I'm afraid a horse won't
get you to
Johnny's mouth curved slightly upward. "Oh, I
don't know, Murdoch. Barranca's a real good swimmer."
They shared a laugh as the whistle blew and steam
plumed from the train. A jolt let them know they were underway.
"Hope the ship gets off this easy,"
Johnny frowned.
"Have you ever sailed, son?"
"Nope.
I gotta tell ya, I'm not looking forward to it. All that water and no land in sight." Johnny made a
melodramatic shudder with his shoulders.
"I like sailing. The ships these days are
really nice from what I hear. Very fancy," Scott said.
"Fancy, huh? Well, if you want me, just look
in my bunk."
"You plan on lying in your bunk for six
weeks?" Murdoch asked with amusement.
Johnny's eyes widened. "Six
weeks?!"
"How long did you think it would take,
brother?"
"I ... I didn't think about it. I don't know
about this. Maybe I'll just go back home."
"Johnny, it'll be fun. It won't be like when I
first came over here. I was on a freighter and worked my way across. It was a
miserable trip. This time we'll be on a nice ship with all the comforts."
"If you say so," Johnny muttered.
******
The train wasn't too full so, again, they enjoyed
some breathing room. They spent their time talking or playing cards. The time
seemed to move along and before they knew it, they were in
Johnny stepped off the train to be met by a blast
of winter air that sucked his lungs empty. Cinching his coat around himself, he
hunkered his shoulders against the frigid air.
"Dios!
Is it always this cold?" he asked anyone.
"Well, it is January, brother. And we are in
the
"Well, they can have it. I think you two are tryin to kill me," he grumbled.
Murdoch chuckled and winked at Scott. "Wait
until we get to
"That's it! I'm goin home!" Johnny
announced.
"He's only teasing you, brother.
Johnny eyed them both narrowly. "I guess you
two think it's real funny to take a poor Californian and throw him into the
middle of winter in the mountains. That's okay. We'll see how my uncles feel
about this. I bet they can beat you up, Murdoch." He tried to keep the
smile from his face and was almost successful. But the look on Murdoch's face
was too much and he and Scott both burst out laughing.
"I think I'm going to have to turn you both
over my knee before this trip is over," he grumbled. Breaking into a
smile, he wrapped an arm around each son. "Let's see if there's any hot
coffee to be had."
********
It wasn't long before they were on their way again.
One step closer to
"You okay?"
Scott looked at him curiously. "Of
course. Why wouldn't I be?"
"We'll be in
Scott smiled wanly. "Yes."
"Maybe you'll have time to see your grandfather,"
Johnny fished.
"Probably not. Maybe on the return trip."
"You don't sound too disappointed."
"I have mixed feelings about it, Johnny. His
trip to the ranch was a mess."
"You said you had a long talk with him when
you took him to the stage. You don't think he accepts your decision?"
"I hope so but grandfather is used to having
his own way. It doesn't matter. I don't want to ruin this trip by thinking
negatively. Let's just enjoy ourselves." Scott forced a smile that Johnny
didn't buy for a minute.
"Sure thing, Scott," he said softly.
Murdoch rejoined them and no more was said about
Harlan Garrett. Johnny decided he would just have to keep an eye on his brother
and make sure he was kept occupied.
*******
Murdoch awoke to a sudden jerk as the train came to
a stop. He wiped a hand over his face and looked around, a bit disoriented.
"Wake up, Murdoch. We're here. Good ole
Murdoch frowned and stood up, stretching his stiff
muscles. 'Great! Never thought I'd see this city again,' he groused to himself.
For his sons he put on a smile. "I guess we should check the ship
schedules first thing."
"Good idea. Your ship is due to sail tomorrow
morning," Scott replied.
They gathered their luggage and hailed a cab to
take them to the port authority. Johnny stuck his head out the window and took
in the city where his brother grew up.
Scott leaned over his shoulder and pointed out
landmarks as they passed. Johnny could here the melancholy in his voice.
The closer they got to the docks, the colder it
became. Johnny decided he was done sightseeing and pulled the curtain tight on
the window.
"How could you stand this weather, Scott? It's
freezing."
Scott smiled. "I suppose you get used to it.
"Well, I don't plan on getting used to
this," Johnny stated emphatically.
They arrived at the harbor master and quickly made
their way inside. Johnny made a beeline for the potbellied stove. Scott was
right behind him.
Murdoch inquired about the ship and availability. A
few minutes later, he joined his sons with a smile on his face.
"They had a cancellation. Apparently a young couple were to sail on their honeymoon tomorrow but
they've cancelled the wedding."
"Smart of them," Johnny grinned.
"We sail at
"The
"Let's go. I want a warm bed tonight,"
Johnny said.
A
Quick Tour of the City
The three men made their way to the
Scott approached the desk and smiled.
"May I help you, sir?" the clerk asked.
"Yes, we'd like three rooms for the night, please."
The clerk glanced up at the three men, his eyes
lingering on Johnny. "Yes, well, I'll see if we have anything
available."
Scott didn't miss the look his brother had been
given but he held his temper in check. He decided to save embarrassment by using
an old method. He didn't like throwing names around
but he was willing in this case.
"While you're looking, I'd like a message sent
to my grandfather. Harlan Garrett," Scott said casually.
The clerk's head flew up. He didn't even try to
contain his surprise. "Harlan Garrett? THE Harlan
Garrett?"
Scott raised a brow. "He's the only one I
know."
"Yes, sir.
That would be
"That would be correct," Scott smiled.
"Of course, sir.
If you'd write your message while I get your room keys," the clerk smiled,
handing him pen and paper.
"Thank you. Murdoch, would you sign us in
while I do this?" Scott asked.
Murdoch was puzzled. Scott had said he would wait
until their return to talk with his grandfather. Now, he wanted to send him a
message. He nodded and signed the ledger.
Johnny wasn't paying attention to any of this. He
was checking out the place. He felt uncomfortable in all this finery.
"Very good, sir.
The bellboy will get your luggage," the clerk said.
"You know, I've changed my mind. I think I'll
just wait and see my grandfather this evening," Scott smiled and handed
the blank paper and pen back.
The clerk's face dropped. "Of
course, sir. As you wish," he said stiffly.
As they walked up the stairs, Murdoch leaned in
close to his eldest. "What was all that about?" he whispered.
"I'll tell you later," Scott whispered
back.
********
The door was opened and the bellboy stepped back to
allow the guests entry. He followed with the luggage and set it down near
another door.
"Scott, this is a little much, isn't it? I
mean, it's only one night," Johnny said, looking around.
"Well, brother, why not enjoy ourselves? This is our vacation and we aren't likely to get
another for a very long time."
"Scott's absolutely right, son."
"Ahem, gentlemen," the bellboy politely
interrupted. "The bedrooms are over here. The bath is through this door.
If you need anything, please ring," he finished by showing them a velvet
rope hanging from the ceiling.
"Ring what?" Johnny asked.
"If you pull on this, sir, it will alert the
staff downstairs," the young man explained.
"I think we can take it from here. Thank
you," Scott smiled and handed him a tip.
Johnny plopped down on a settee and let out a sigh.
"All I wanted was a bed and a decent meal," he said, shaking his head
at the extravagance.
"And that's what you got. And a bath right
through there," Scott grinned, pointing the way. "Which
I would like to use, if no one objects."
"Go right ahead,
"Well, before you indulge, I'd like to take a
look," Murdoch said.
Once in the bathroom, he closed the door.
"Alright, what was all that about downstairs?"
Scott sat on the edge of the tub and sighed. "That
clerk wasn't going to give us rooms."
"How could you know that?"
"I saw the way he looked at Johnny,"
Scott grimaced.
Murdoch's brows knitted together, his cheeks turned
red.
"Don't make a big deal of it, Murdoch. Johnny
wasn't paying attention anyway. Let's just drop it."
"Alright, son.
But one surly look from that little cretin and
...." Murdoch left it at that. He went back to the sitting room to find
Johnny at the balcony, doors wide open.
********
"Trying to catch your death?" Murdoch
asked as he walked up behind him.
"This is where Scott grew up. Sure would like
to see more of it," Johnny said. His voice sounded strange to Murdoch.
"It's a very old city. One
of the oldest in the country. Full of history.
It's also freezing. Close the door, son."
Johnny smiled and did so, thinking he must be
getting used to the colder climates.
"Are you alright, Johnny?"
"Sure, I'm fine. I'm not daft ya know,"
he said, cocking a brow and grinning.
"You lost me," Murdoch said, thoroughly
confused.
"That clerk? Scott all the
sudden wanting to send a note to his grandfather? Harlan Garrett,"
he announced the name as if all should now bow. "Don't think I didn't know
what was going on."
Murdoch tightened his jaw. "You knew more than
me. Scott just explained it to me. I'm sorry, son. If I had realized what was
happening ...."
"You would have what? Left the hotel? I doubt
that clerk would care. Scott was pretty slick. Now they're stuck with us,"
Johnny grinned.
"Are you going to just joke this away?"
Murdoch asked with concern.
"What do you want me to do? Go down there and
smack him? Let it go, Murdoch."
"Is that what you usually do?"
"Usually," Johnny shrugged. Seeing his
father's determination for being upset, Johnny sighed. "Look, this is my
problem and I'm used to dealing with it. I'd have dealt with it today if Scott
hadn't. I was a little ticked off at first but then, well, he sure got that fella's goat," he laughed.
"It's my problem, too, son."
"Why?"
"Why? Because I ....."
"Made me?" Johnny grinned.
"Well, yes!"
He fell back onto the settee and laughed heartily.
Murdoch couldn't help but join him as he realized how silly he'd sounded.
Scott walked out of the bath wearing a robe and
drying his hair with a towel. "What's so funny?"
"Nothin,
"I feel much better. So would you if you'd
care to follow me," Scott smirked.
"Later. I want to see the sights. Show me this
town, Scott."
"Now?
You want to sightsee?"
"Sure. I want to see Harvard and the Commons
and all the places you've told me about," Johnny smiled enthusiastically.
"Well, I don't think we have time to see all
of it," Scott said, looking to Murdoch.
"You boys go ahead. I've seen
"Alright.
I'll be dressed in a minute," Scott shrugged and headed to one of the
bedrooms.
************
Johnny changed his clothes as well, opting for
something plain. He felt lopsided. His right hip was naked as far as he was
concerned. Murdoch had made him put his gun away when they left
"Better get your heavy coat," Scott said
as he re-entered the room.
"Right over there, brother. You ready?"
Scott noted he'd changed and he smiled a little.
"Let's go."
As they passed the clerk, Johnny couldn't help but
give him a little bow and a wink. Scott was walking ahead of him and didn't
see.
The clerk turned his nose up and went back to his
business.
"We should see Harvard first, it's the
farthest away. Then we can backtrack," Scott said.
"Backtrack? We goin huntin,
brother," Johnny grinned.
Scott hailed a cab and shot him a perturbed look.
But he was right, Scott's vocabulary had changed quite
a bit.
They crossed the
Scott smiled and took a deep breath. "I wonder
if any of my professors would remember me?"
"Only one way to find out.
Let's go," Johnny said, grabbing him around the shoulders.
As they walked along the grounds, Scott gave Johnny
some history on the school. "It's the oldest college in the country. It
was established in 1636. John Adams and John Quincy Adams attended
Harvard."
Johnny nodded, he could hear his brother's pride in
his voice and he smiled a
little.
They approached Harvard Hall, a two-story brick
structure with a balcony on the second floor. A bell tower adorned the top of
the building, hexagon-shaped. The steps led up right and left to the front
door. It was surrounded by a wooden fence with an iron gate at the sidewalk
entrance leading to the steps. Sidewalks were laid to keep people off the
grass, which was brown at this time of year.
"What does that mean?" Johnny asked,
pointed to the plaque over the door.
"Veritas.
It means Truth. That's the school motto," Scott explained.
They entered the Hall and Scott stopped in the
center of the large foyer.
Johnny watched him soaking in his memories. He took
a look around himself. Many portraits graced the walls. There were doors down
each corridor and the place was as quiet as a church. Johnny found himself wanting
to whisper.
******
"Where to, brother?"
Scott snapped back to the present and smiled. He
pointed down one hall and started walking. His boots clumped on the high
polished marble. He winced at the sound but there was nothing he could do about
it. He made his steps a little lighter, however.
He stopped midway down the hall and peeked through
the window in the door. Johnny looked around his shoulder to see a large room
full of young men. The teacher was at the front, talking about something he
couldn't hear.
He was a tall man with gray hair and a well-trimmed
moustache. He wore a gray suit and looked quite debonair.
"That's Professor Ludlow. He teaches business
and economics. He was one of my favorite professors," Scott whispered as
he turned to look at his brother.
"How is he with a ruler?" Johnny asked.
"A ruler?
Why would you ask that?"
"Cause he's coming this way," Johnny
grinned.
Scott turned to see his old professor reaching for
the door knob. He actually cringed.
"Gentlemen, I take it you are not
students," he said.
"No, sir.
That is, not anymore," Scott fumbled.
"Then kindly tell me why you are lurking at my
door," the man said coldly.
Scott stared at him, seeming to have lost his
voice.
"My brother went to school here a few years
back. He just wanted to visit," Johnny explained.
"How quaint.
Perhaps you could reminisce elsewhere?" the professor suggested.
Johnny's eyes narrowed and his own voice grew cold.
"Scott lives in
Scott opened his mouth, then
closed it again. He wanted to yell at his brother but that was not appropriate.
"I see. You did not attend Harvard, I can
assume?"
"You can assume anything you want but, no I
didn't. And if all the teachers are as stuck up as you, I wouldn't want
to," he shot.
"Johnny!" Scott managed to whisper.
A flicker of a smile crossed the professor's face.
"What is your name, young man?" he asked sternly.
"Johnny Lancer. What's yours?" he
drawled.
"Wilhelm Ludlow," he answered, then frowned, looking more closely at the muted one.
"Scott Lancer? Yes, I remember you. A fine student," he smiled.
"Thank you, sir. We're sorry to take up your
time," Scott managed.
"And this is your brother?"
"Yes, sir," Scott answered, shooting
Johnny a look.
"And why is it you did not attend Harvard as
well?" he asked Johnny.
"Because I didn't grow up here," he
answered.
"We have many students from all over the
country," the professor replied.
"Didn't grow up in the country neither.
I grew up in
"We'll be leaving now. We're sorry for the
intrusion," Scott said, grabbing Johnny's arm.
"Just a minute.
Don't leave just yet,"
The young men filing out of the room looked
curiously at the two Lancers. Scott wanted to crawl under a rock. He
figured he was in for a lecture of a different kind. If Johnny thought he could
hold his own with this man, he was sorely mistaken.
"Now, gentlemen.
Please, come in," he smiled and held the door open for them.
Scott walked in and was hit by deja
vu. Johnny looked around the room and was unimpressed. "Is it always so
cold in here?"
"Usually.
We find that students pay closer attention when the room is cooler. They tend
to nod off in warmer conditions,"
"I'd be too busy thinking about how cold I was
to listen to you," Johnny told him.
"What do you think of Harvard, Mr. Lancer?"
Johnny shrugged. "It's old."
"Well, that's a complicated story,
Professor."
"That's why I asked you in. I want to hear
this complicated story," the man said, seating himself at his desk. He
folded his hands on top of the desk and waited expectantly.
Scott knew that look, remembered it well. The man
expected an answer and he was compelled to give it.
"Well, if you recall, I lived with my
grandfather."
"Harlan Garrett. I remember. Go on."
"Yes, well, almost two years ago, my father
contacted me. He asked me to come see him in
Johnny was surprised Scott was telling this man
anything. He was full of himself and Johnny didn't like him.
"When I arrived, I discovered my father had
remarried and had another son."
"Fascinating!
So, you knew nothing about your brother until two years ago. And
what of you, young man?"
"What about me? I ain't your student or your
friend. My life is none of your business," Johnny hissed.
"You are correct, of course. We have gotten
off to a bad start, haven't we? I'm afraid my curiosity has gotten the better
of me. You mentioned
"Good for you."
"Johnny, please," Scott ground
out.
"It's alright, Scott. I have insulted your
brother. He has every right to be put out with me. Would you accept an apology,
Mr. Lancer?"
Johnny sighed and nodded. He didn't want to
embarrass his brother. Too late for that, he reckoned.
"We really should be going, sir. We're meeting
our father for dinner," Scott said.
"Well, I'm sorry I didn't get to meet him. It
was good seeing you again, Scott. And it was very nice meeting you, Johnny. Por favor, perdone mi comportamiento descortés,"
he said, extending a hand.
Johnny accepted the hand shake. "No se preocupe de él," he smiled.
Scott breathed a sigh of relief when they stepped
out into the afternoon sun. "That went well."
"He's okay. So, what else you want to show
me?" Johnny smiled.
Scott looked at him as if he were insane.
"That's it? You aren't going to say anything about what happened in
there?"
Johnny shrugged. "He said he was sorry and I
told him not to worry about it. What more is there? Come on, brother. Show me them Commons." He walked toward the street, leaving
Scott staring at his back incredulously.
*******
By the time they reached the Commons, Scott had
shrugged off the incident at Harvard. It did no good to dwell and he would
probably never lay eyes on Professor Ludlow again. He had to smile. The whole
thing started with his awe of the man and Johnny feeling his brother was being
slighted.
"It's pretty,
"Yes, it is. It's the oldest public park in
"No kiddin? What's
that building over there?"
"That's the State House. It was completed in
1798. The dome was covered in copper to keep it from leaking."
"Oh, that's why it's so shiny," Johnny
grinned.
"Come on, I want to show you Faneuil Hall," Scott laughed.
They walked around the marketplace for a while. It
reminded Johnny a little of the Mexican marketplaces. Always
crowded with people selling wares of all kinds.
"We should head back. Murdoch will be ready to
eat a whole cow by himself," Johnny laughed.
"Right.
I wish we had more time," Scott said a bit sadly.
"Maybe on the way back.
Besides, you have to see your grandfather then. He'll kill ya if you
don't."
"You are right about that," Scott smiled.
As they walked across the hotel lobby toward the
stairs, they heard a commotion to their right. It took all of a second to
recognize Murdoch's voice. The brothers looked warily at each other and headed
in that direction.
The same little clerk was standing in front of
Murdoch, blocking his passage into the dining room.
"You can't tell me there are no tables when I
see at least a dozen empty!" the rancher growled.
"As I explained, sir.
Those tables are reserved. You will have to find some other place to eat,"
the little man said.
"Problem, Murdoch?" Scott asked.
Murdoch turned to see his sons standing behind him.
"No, no problem. They're all booked up for dinner," he said, averting
his gaze from Johnny.
Johnny smiled at his father's poor attempt. He
stepped around him to face the clerk. "What if I were to tell you I won't
be eating with my family tonight?"
The clerk swallowed hard but stuck his chin out.
"I don't see what bearing that has on the situation."
"Sure, you don't. Come on, Murdoch. Scott and
I saw a lot of restaurants. I'm sure they have better food anyway."
"No, Johnny," Scott fumed. He stepped up
beside his brother. "I demand to see the manager."
"Scott, don't make a big deal out of
this," Johnny said softly.
"Now!"
Scott glared at the man, ignoring his brother, who sighed resignedly.
*******
A moment later a tall dark haired man appeared. He
had a thin moustache and a long nose with a high forehead.
"Is there a problem, gentlemen?"
"Yes, there is a problem. I would like to see
your reservation list," Scott said.
"I'm sorry, sir, I don't understand," the
man said, appearing to be truly confused.
"Did I not speak in English? Your reservation
list," Scott said in a gritty tone.
The man frowned at him, then
looked at the clerk who seemed to want to say something. "Reginald, what
is going on here?"
"I told 'them' they couldn't eat here because
we're fully booked, sir," the clerk answered, his eyes darted to Johnny on
the word 'them'.
The manager glared at the man. "Would
you excuse us, gentlemen? I will be right back," he said and pulled
the clerk aside.
After a rather animated conversation, the manager
returned. "I'm sorry for the confusion, gentlemen. Please, allow me to
show you to a table."
"Just a moment.
I would like to know why there was any 'confusion'," Scott persisted.
The man seemed embarrassed and Johnny felt a little
sorry for him. "Drop it, brother."
"No, I won't," Scott said firmly.
Johnny looked at Murdoch who shrugged his
shoulders. An amused look was on his face. 'He's enjoying this!' Johnny
thought.
"Sir, I'm afraid my clerk had some inaccurate
ideas. It will not happen again."
"Are you sure about that?" Scott pressed.
"Quite sure, sir.
I have fired him," the man assured him.
This answer satisfied Scott. Johnny didn't think
any other answer would have. He'd have to talk to his brother about this.
******
They were seated and waited on immediately. Once
their orders were taken and they had a bottle of wine in front of them, Johnny
spoke.
"Proud of yourself,
"As a matter of fact, I am," Scott replied.
"Do you think what you did will change that
weasel's attitude?" Johnny asked.
Scott dipped his eyes. "I suppose not but at
least we won't have to deal with him anymore."
"We?" Johnny asked, a little amused.
"Yes, 'we'.
Are you upset with me?"
"No, no. Not really. I just don't think it was
your place, that's all," Johnny said casually as he twirled his wine glass
gently between his fingers.
"Not my place? Why
not?" Scott asked.
"Well, you weren't the problem," Johnny
shrugged.
"Prejudice is everyone's problem, son,"
Murdoch intervened.
Johnny smiled a little. "Yeah, your method was
real effective."
Scott laughed as did Murdoch.
"I guess not. Your brother is more
diplomatic."
"Your solution wouldn't have solved anything,
Johnny," Scott pointed out.
"Nothing has been solved, Scott. He's still a
jackass only now he doesn't have a job. He'll blame that on me, too. So you
see, all you did was make him hate more."
Scott couldn't deny the logic of that. "What
would have made him hate less?"
Johnny smiled. "Nothing, I guess."
"There are no easy solutions, boys. If there
were, we wouldn't be having this conversation."
"Murdoch's right. So, why don't we change the
subject," Johnny suggested.
No more was said and they enjoyed their meal. They
talked about the trip tomorrow and began to feel the excitement again. But in
the back of his mind, Johnny wondered if things would be different in
Six
Weeks to
The next morning, the Lancers checked out of the
"Well, I suppose we should board before it
gets too busy," Scott said.
"I'm not in any hurry," Johnny replied
glumly.
Murdoch wrapped an arm around his youngest's shoulder. "You'll be fine, son. I predict
smooth sailing all the way to
"I'm gonna hold you to that, Murdoch. I'm also
gonna regret this, I just know it."
Murdoch laughed and put a hand on each of his
shoulders, gently guiding him up the gangplank.
Johnny grabbed hold of the rope railing as the
gangplank began to sway a little. Scott assured him it was normal and he would
not end up in the water. Johnny wasn't convinced and kept a tight hold until he
reached the ship's deck.
They were greeted by a cabin boy who took their
tickets and showed them to their cabins.
Upon entering, Murdoch had to stoop so he wouldn't
bang his head on the entryway. He looked at the bunk and raised a brow.
"How are you gonna sleep in that?" Johnny
asked.
Refusing to be negative, Murdoch smiled. "I'll
manage, son."
"Well, let's see our cabin, shall we?"
Scott said as the boy waited patiently.
Murdoch went along and they found themselves in a
rather large cabin with a good sized bed.
"One bed?"
Scott asked.
"Remember, son? It was supposed to be
newlyweds in here."
"Murdoch, why don't I take your cabin and you
bunk with Scott. This bed's a lot bigger. There's no way you can fit in that
cot in your room," Johnny offered.
"It is a bit cramped, sir," Scott added.
"No, boys.
I couldn't let you do that."
"Do what? It's not a big deal. I'm smaller, it'll be fine for me. You gonna sleep in there for
six weeks?" Johnny asked.
Murdoch reconsidered quickly. "Alright.
Thank you, son."
"Sure. Besides, that way, me pukin my guts out won't keep Scott awake," he grinned.
*********
They managed to get Johnny topside for the Bon Voyage.
He'd never seen the like. People standing on the docks
yelling and carrying on. Why didn't they just say goodbye and be done
with it?
He was surprised he hadn't felt bad but he figured
he would as soon as they were underway. Johnny had never been on a boat of any
kind and he just knew he'd hate it.
The ship's horn blew loudly and several people on
board covered their ears. Steam rushed from the stacks and Johnny felt
movement. He groaned though it wasn't heard over the roar.
His knuckles went white as he held onto the
railing. Murdoch put a hand on his arm and smiled reassuringly. Johnny felt a tenderness from his father's concern. Sometimes, he forgot
Murdoch could be so understanding.
They made their way out of the harbor and still, he
clung to the rail. Scott finally managed to talk him into going back to the
cabin. The wind was cutting into them all.
They all settled in the larger cabin and Johnny
found a chair that looked sturdy to sit in.
"How are you holding up, son?"
"Fine, fine," he mumbled, his eyes
darting all over the room.
Scott smiled. "Well, let's see what's on the
agenda." He opened the ship's itinerary and began to read aloud.
"Dinner at the captain's table tomorrow
night. We'll have to dress for that."
"Wasn't planning on goin anywhere naked,"
Johnny muttered.
Scott ignored him and continued rattling off the
parties and dances and games offered aboard. "Ah, this will interest you,
Johnny. There's a bar on the top two decks."
"Funny, Scott," he sneered.
Scott simply smiled at him.
The ship's horn blew again and Johnny jumped a
foot. "How many times are they gonna do that!?"
"There shouldn't be anymore until we reach
"Fog?"
"It's nothing to worry about, son."
"I'm beginning to think I'd rather spend six
weeks with Harlan," Johnny mumbled under his breath.
*******
"Listen to this. The captain has been a
sea-faring man for twenty years. He's commanded three ships in that time,"
Scott read.
"Yeah?
What happened to the other two?" Johnny asked.
"Are you going to be like this the entire
voyage?" Scott asked.
"No, I plan on bein
pretty sick pretty soon," Johnny shot back.
"You haven't been and we're already underway.
I think you worry too much, brother. I've never gotten sea sick," Scott
stated.
"I did," Murdoch admitted as both sons
stared at him. "My first week on board, I prayed to die," he laughed.
"After that, I got my sea legs and was fine. So you see, son, if you do
get sick, it won't last long."
"I hope not. Anyway, what should we do now
that we're stuck on this boat?"
"There's a welcome aboard party in thirty
minutes," Scott suggested.
"They gonna have liquor?" Johnny asked.
"I'm sure they will."
"Count me in," he smiled.
********
They walked into the main dining hall and stopped.
Johnny cocked a brow at the room.
"Where's the bar?" he asked, looking
around.
A waiter appeared beside him as if by magic. "What would you like, sir?"
Johnny shrugged. "What have you got?"
"Almost anything you'd care for, sir,"
the waiter smiled.
Johnny grinned. "Yeah?
Got any tequila?"
"Yes, sir.
And you gentlemen?"
"Scotch," Murdoch said and Scott made it
two.
They walked further into the room and took notice
of the other passengers. All seemed to be wealthy or at least well off. Johnny
wondered if there were any poor slobs like him around. He smiled a little at
that thought.
"Oh, my God.
I don't believe it!" Scott whispered.
"What?" Johnny asked, looking for a
threat.
"That's him! Over there with
the captain. I know it's him!"
"Who, Scott?"
Murdoch asked.
"Ralph Waldo Emerson," Scott said with
adoration.
"Who?"
Johnny asked.
"Emerson, the poet and author," Scott
explained. He stared openly at the aging man with the balding gray pate and
large roman nose.
********
Johnny shook his head. The things that interested
his brother were a mystery. "Well, go on over there and say hello."
"Oh, no, I couldn't."
Johnny rolled his eyes and grabbed his brother's
arm, yanking him toward the man.
"Johnny, stop it! You can't just walk up to a
man like Emerson," Scott pleaded.
"Watch me," Johnny clipped.
Johnny pulled up a few feet away and let Scott
regain his balance. "Excuse me, Mr. Emerson?"
The man turned and looked at him. "Yes, young man."
"This is my brother, Scott Lancer. He's a big
fan of yours and he wanted to meet you. He's a little shy so I dragged him over
here," Johnny grinned.
Emerson smiled, amused. "It's a pleasure to
meet you both, Mr. Lancers," he said with a slight bow.
"A true honor, sir," Scott said, shaking
hands with the great man.
"Tell me, which of my works do you like
most?"
"Oh, there are so many. Well, the poetry is
just exquisite and Nature was a work of genius," Scott began.
Johnny backstepped out of
the conversation and returned to his father.
"That was nice, son. He would have never gone
over there himself."
"Yeah.
Look at him, talkin his head off," Johnny
laughed.
Murdoch looked him up and down. "And look at
you. Not a sign of seasickness."
"Hey, how about that?
Well, I'm not lettin my guard down just yet."
********
Three weeks into the voyage, they had settled into
a type of routine of meals, reading, talking or walking along the decks. They
participated in some of the activities aboard and even met some nice young
ladies.
Scott spent a considerable amount of his time with
Mr. Emerson. This left Johnny and Murdoch to their own devices and,
surprisingly, they enjoyed their time together.
Johnny awoke one night to those blasted horns. He
bolted out of bed and grabbed his pants, catching himself as he careened to one
side of the small space.
He didn't bother with his boots or his shirt. He
left the cabin and made his way to his family. He swayed from one side of the
corridor to the other as the ship tossed about. 'I knew it. I knew this would
happen. Now this damned thing is gonna sink!' he thought.
When he got to the door, he was on the opposite
side of the hall. Pushing himself off the wall, he lunged for the door and flew
into the cabin.
Murdoch and Scott stared at him. They were in the
middle of dressing themselves.
"What's wrong?!" Johnny demanded.
"We were just about to go see. But, judging by
the way the ship's moving, I'd say we hit a storm, brother," Scott replied
calmly.
"Johnny, go get dressed. You can't run around
on deck like that," Murdoch grumbled. He was not happy having his sleep disturbed. He noticed his son's face and managed to
walk over to him.
"It's probably nothing, son. Go on and get
dressed. We'll meet you in your cabin," he said more gently.
Johnny nodded and fought his way back to his own
room. He sat on the edge of the bed and felt his stomach roll with the ship.
Taking a deep breath, he put his socks and boots on, then his shirt. He grabbed
his coat and opened the door just as his family were
approaching.
They made their way topside, not an easy task, to
find many of the other passengers holding onto whatever they could find.
Suddenly, a shrill whistle blew.
*******
The Captain walked down a few steps from the bridge
and waited until everyone was quiet.
"Ladies and gentlemen, please do not be
alarmed. We've spotted a vessel in distress and are checking things out. The
storm is annoying but it is nothing to fear. The ship is not in danger."
Many sighs and words of relief could be heard
washing over the crowd. Johnny was not among them. He wasn't buying any of
this, not for a second. He pushed his way through the crowd to reach the
captain.
The captain leaned down toward him when Johnny
tugged on his sleeve.
"Are you bein
straight with us or just trying to keep these people calm?" he asked.
The captain smiled. "I'm telling you the
truth, young man. I do not withhold information that may affect my
passengers."
Johnny looked him dead in the eyes and nodded.
"Can I help?"
"We have it under control for now. But if you
can keep yourself available, we may need help later. If there are any
survivors," the seasoned man said.
"I'll be around," Johnny said glumly. He
knew the man was being honest now for certain.
The purser appeared and asked everyone to return to
their cabins or into the dining room so that the crew could work. Hot coffee
and snacks were made available for those who couldn't sleep.
The Lancers went to the dining room and Johnny told
them what the captain had said. All three decided to wait around in case they
could help.
*******
"It looks like it may be a long night,"
Murdoch commented. There were very few passengers in the dining room and it was
too quiet.
Johnny sipped his coffee and nodded. He glanced
over at Scott and frowned. "Hey, you okay?"
Scott looked at him with pure misery in his eyes.
"I don't think so."
Johnny tried to hold back the smile and was almost
successful. "Sick?"
"Don't laugh!"
"Sorry, brother."
"I'll see if the purser has anything you can
take, son," Murdoch said, a little amused himself.
"Let me help you back to the cabin, Scott. You
should lay down," Johnny offered.
"No, I want to be here in case they need
help," Scott said, shaking his head slowly.
"You stay here and you'll be the one needing
help. Come on, brother."
Scott sighed and nodded and Johnny helped him stand
up. Murdoch returned to say the purser would have some gingerroot brought to
the cabin and it was best for Scott to lay down and
stay still.
Scott had no trouble following that advice. As they
walked out on deck he took a deep breath of the salt air and thought he
actually felt a little better from it. But as the ship rolled once more, he
decided that idea was all in his head.
********
Johnny and Murdoch sat him on the bed and took his
boots and coat off. Murdoch but a waste basket next to the bed and got a glass
of water.
A crew member delivered the ginger and instructed
that Scott take just a bite or two. He swore by it's
effectiveness.
He settled in and Johnny pulled the covers over
him. "Just lay real still, Scott."
"Thanks, Johnny," he sighed.
"I'm going back up. Stay with him?"
Johnny asked Murdoch.
"Of course, son.
If you need me ....."
Johnny smiled and headed topside once more.
It turned out the fishing vessel they had spotted
was empty. The captain surmised all hands had been lost. The dining room was
quiet as a church as the tired crew filtered in. Johnny was the only passenger
left.
The captain joined him, thanking him for waiting.
"How will you let someone know about that
boat?"
"We'll notify the harbormaster when we arrive
in
Johnny nodded thoughtfully. "Guess I should
check on my brother. He got a little seasick," he said, a smiled tugging
at his lips.
"Happens to the best of us."
Johnny looked up at him. "I'm sure it'll make
him feel better to know the captain gets seasick," he laughed.
The captain laughed as well.
Scott recovered by the next day. He stated he would
swear by gingerroot for the rest of his life.
*******
Foggy
Johnny stood on the deck, gripping the handrail. He
strained his eyes to make out the silhouette in the foggy distance.
"What do you see?" Scott asked.
"Don't know. Looks big,
though."
Scott smiled. "I imagine it does. That's
Johnny looked at him. "We're here? Thank
God!"
Scott couldn't help but laugh. "Yes, we are
here. And in the morning, we're getting right back on another ship."
Johnny groaned at the thought.
"Don't worry, son. It will only be a few days
this time," Murdoch assured him as he approached.
As he was about to respond, the ship's horn blew
and he jumped a foot. Closing his eyes, he gritted his teeth. If there was one
thing he would not miss, it was that blasted noise.
It seemed to take forever for the ship to dock. The
fog was thick and Johnny didn't relax until he heard the engines stop. Sighing
with relief, he followed his family down below to retrieve their luggage.
********
Standing on the pier, they all three took a moment
to get their bearings. Murdoch hailed a cab and asked the driver to take them
to a nice hotel.
"Ow nice ya want it,
gents? I mean there's nice and there's nice," he said in a cockney accent.
"Very nice," Murdoch said, emphasizing
the 'very'.
He nodded and flicked the reins and they were off.
Johnny craned his neck to take in the sites around him. This part of
But soon enough they entered a different part of
the city. It reminded Johnny of Boston and he voiced that observation.
"Yes, I suppose it does.
They pulled up in front of a tall building. Johnny
looked up and noted the statues. He frowned, he didn't like them. They seemed
to be staring at him and it put him on edge.
"Something wrong, son?"
"Huh? Oh, no, I was just lookin
around."
They entered the lobby and stared. It was more
elegant than anything Murdoch or Johnny had seen before. The Scotsman was
beginning to wonder if he had been too insistent on a 'nice' hotel.
Scott was not dissuaded and he sauntered to the
desk with a smile. "Three rooms, please."
"Certainly, sir.
How long will you be staying with us?" the clerk asked politely.
"Just tonight.
We sail again tomorrow," Scott explained.
"Very good, sir.
If you'll sign the register," the man turned the book around and Scott
quickly signed them in.
*******
Once again, they found themselves in the lap of
luxury. Johnny was getting a little tired of all the pomp and circumstance. He
hoped
"What time do we have to get back on that boat
tomorrow?" he asked.
"We sail at nine so we need to be there by
eight," Murdoch answered.
"How long will it take to get to
"Six days."
"Well, that beats six weeks!"
Murdoch laughed at his son's frustration. "Homesick already?"
"Guess so. I'm just not used to all .... this," Johnny said,
opening his arms to take in the room.
He sat down in a chair by the balcony next to
Scott. Crossing his legs at the ankles he studied his father. "So, tell us
what to expect. Do these people speak English?"
"Of course they speak English. It may not be
easy to understand. The accent is pretty thick. Just follow my lead when we get
there. Oh, and don't expect 'all this'," Murdoch made the same gesture
Johnny had about the room, "when we get there."
"Good! I could do with something a little more simple," Johnny sighed.
"To tell the truth, so could I," Scott
rejoined.
"What's this? Big brother gettin tired of all this finery?"
Scott looked into his brother's teasing eyes.
"I guess you two have corrupted my sensibilities," he grinned.
"You're welcome," Johnny said with an air
of victory.
Murdoch watched them, feeling very confident that
his sons would fit right in with his siblings. He hadn't doubted it for a
moment, though. Johnny and Scott treated each other the same way he and his
brothers had as they were growing up. He could see them as children and imagine
them together through his own experiences. He was overwhelmed by a sense of
homesickness for his native land. He was anxious for this next week to pass.
*******
He stood on the deck and watched the city come into
view. The docks, the ships, the tall buildings that lined the
waterfront and beyond. Taking a deep breath, his senses reeled from the
familiarity. Had it really been 40 years?
To him, the city had not changed one iota. He could
see himself, running around the docks, chasing after his father before he made
it to work. Catching him because he'd forgotten his lunch
again. He smiled. Da was always forgetting
something. He sometimes wondered if it wasn't purposeful. Just so his boys
could come down and see him for a few minutes.
Scott had gone to see to their luggage and Johnny
watched his father lost in memories.
"How does it feel?"
Murdoch looked over at him and smiled. "Feels
like I never left."
He wrapped an arm around his son's shoulders and
pulled him in close. "Have I thanked you?"
Johnny laughed, "only
a million times."
"Well, make it a million and one. I never
thought I'd see it again," he said, his voice catching.
Johnny swallowed hard, memories of his own catching
him off-guard. He pulled away from his father and looked out over the sea.
"Johnny?"
"I'm okay. Just thinkin,"
he mumbled.
Murdoch smiled knowingly. "About
He looked at his father and smiled. "Yeah."
"You'll see it again, son."
"I know. But, right now, I'm anxious to see
this country. You are gonna show us all of it. I mean,
the highlands and everything?"
"I promise to ...." he was cut off by
that blasted horn again.
Johnny didn't even flinch this time. It was almost
a sweet sound. It meant they had finally arrived at their destination.
Home
The three of them landed on solid ground again and
Scott and Johnny's eyes were everywhere at once. Drinking in
their father's homeland, every ounce of it.
"Murdoch!"
They turned to see a tall man waving toward them.
He had another man with him, a little shorter but not much. Johnny and Scott
looked at each other and smiled. They could be no one else but Murdoch's
brothers.
The taller one had almost gray hair and clear blue
eyes. High forehead and slightly jutting chin but a narrower nose and fuller
lips. The shorter one had light brown but graying hair and much the same
features of their father. Right down to the seemingly permanent crease of the
forehead. Same nose, same ears, same cheeks. It was a bit disturbing how much
they resembled.
Murdoch actually ran to them, embracing each one
soundly. "Duncan, Blane!"
The boys stood back a little, waiting as their
father took in the sight of his brothers. The three men laughed and hugged
several times, remarking on how old each had gotten and how good they all
looked.
Murdoch finally remembered them. "Oh, I have a
surprise for you. I want you to meet my sons. This is Scott and Johnny,"
he introduced them with great pride.
"What's this!? We didn't know ya was bringin your boys,"
Scott and Johnny extended a hand and both were
summarily swatted away as the big man embraced one, then the other. Blane did
the same and they both felt a little smushed.
"It was a last minute decision for them to
come but I'm glad they did," Murdoch explained.
"As are we.
Now, let's get you all to the house. You'll be stayin
with me,"
"Where's Aileen?" Murdoch asked, looking
around for his sister.
"Ah, I'm afraid ya won't be seein her. Her husband was transferred to
Murdoch's face fell in disappointment.
"Come on now, we'll keep ya busy enough,"
Duncan and Blane each took a side and marched their
brother onward, talking a mile a minute.
"Did you understand half of that?" Johnny
asked.
"No. It should be interesting to say the
least," Scott grinned.
********
The frigid air lessened as they drove away from the
waterfront. Murdoch was engrossed in a conversation with his brothers. A conversation
both Johnny and Scott gave up on trying to follow. The
thick brogues of their uncles was too difficult to
understand.
They headed down
They pulled up to an impressive home and stopped. A
two story brick structure with bay windows in the front on both floors. There
was a porch on the side of the house. It looked to be at least six bedrooms.
"Well, this is it,"
"Very nice, brother.
It looks like you've done well," Murdoch smiled.
"I get by."
"Ha! Get by, my foot. He works for the White
Star Line. Vice President," Blane proclaimed with a nod of the head.
"We can't all be college professors,
Blane,"
"Alright, you two.
Boy, it's like I never left," Murdoch laughed.
They entered the house to be greeted by a
stunningly beautiful petite woman with blonde hair and pale blue eyes.
"Murdoch, this is my wife, Heather."
"It's so nice to finally meet you,
Murdoch," she smiled and hugged him.
"And these are his sons, Scott and
Johnny."
"Oh! What a wonderful surprise! Welcome,"
she exclaimed.
"Let's get ya all settled first. Then, we can
catch up,"
"I'll be back with my brood for supper,"
Blane told them as he darted out the door.
"I hope this isn't an imposition, ma'am,"
Scott said.
"Don't be silly. You're family. You can stay
in Robert's room if ya like. There's two beds in
there. Or would ya rather have a room to yourselves?" she smiled.
Looking briefly at each other, they grinned.
"One room is fine," Johnny said.
"Where is Robert?" Murdoch asked.
"
"
"Thank you, ma'am," Johnny smiled.
She looked at them both and sighed. "Bonny
lads ya are."
******
Once alone in the room, Johnny had to ask.
"What's a bonny lad?"
Scott shrugged. "Beats me but I'm pretty sure
it was a compliment."
"Boy, you couldn't miss the family
resemblance, could ya?" Johnny laughed.
"It would be hard. They seem really
nice."
"They act like us. Always teasin
each other," Johnny noted.
"I noticed that. Guess we come by it
honest," Scott laughed.
Johnny sat on the bed and bounced a few times,
testing the mattress. It passed his inspection and he laid
down on his back, hands behind his head, feet dangling off the edge.
"Well, we're here," he sighed.
"It's a lot different than I imagined,"
Scott frowned.
"Yeah?
I didn't imagine anything. What did you think it would be like?"
"Well, I just got the image of a poor country.
But, it doesn't seem to be much different than
"Yeah, they talk funny there, too,"
Johnny laughed.
Scott raised a brow. "Maybe you should throw
some Spanish at them. I'll bet that would sound funny to them, too."
"Alright,
Murdoch popped in the door, still grinning.
"Settling in?"
"Yep.
Your brothers are real nice. And
"She is beautiful," Murdoch agreed.
"I see the Lancer taste in women stretches
across oceans," Scott stated, a smile playing at his lips.
*********
They descended the stairs for supper together and
found Blane had returned.
The dining table was huge and beautifully set.
"Murdoch, Scott, Johnny, this is my wife,
Lorna. These are my boys, Ian and Douglas," Blane introduced. Lorna was a
redhead and quite attractive in her own right with big brown eyes and just a
hint of freckles across her nose. Ian had light brown hair and hazel eyes. He
was of medium height and thin. He was sixteen.
Murdoch smiled. "Still trying to compete, I
see," he said to Blane.
Seeing the confused looks on everyone's faces, he
explained. "Ian is the Scottish equivalent of John."
Johnny smiled at his cousin. "Guess we're in
for some comparing."
"I hope not," the young man said quietly.
"Supper is ready," Heather announced.
Johnny watched the quiet young man, wondering about
his comment. Soon enough, his attention was elsewhere.
"Where's your youngest,
"Always late, that one.
He's got no sense of timing,"
Just then, the door slammed and a red-faced young
man entered the room. "Sorry, class ran late," he said as he took his
seat.
He was introduced to the American Lancers as
Andrew. Nineteen, tall and well-built, he had blond hair and deeper blue eyes
than his cousins. Not as blue as Johnny's but darker than Scott's. As with the
rest of the Scottish clan, his complexion was fair.
Scott and Johnny didn't miss the disapproving look
he received from his father. Anxious to get past the awkward moment, Scott
spoke up.
"Johnny and I were wondering. What is a bonny
lad?"
Murdoch chuckled as did Heather. "It means
your fine lookin boys," she explained.
They both actually blushed
a little and thanked her.
*******
The rest of supper and most of the evening was
spent with the elder Lancer men catching up on each other's lives. Murdoch had
brought along some pictures of Teresa and the estancia; photographs he'd had
done recently in anticipation of the trip.
The conversation then turned to reminiscing. A topic that Scott and Johnny were most interested in.
Listening to their father's antics as told by his brothers brought a new
insight for them both.
Some of the stories were ludicrous, some outrageous
and some too funny for words. The boys were finding it easier to understand
their family's brogues as the evening progressed. Neither missed the brogue
that was appearing in Murdoch's speech.
One particularly interesting story was told after
the vehement objections of one Murdoch Lancer. Duncan and Blane were not
impressed with his threats. They were determined to tell their tale.
"It wasn't long before Murdoch left for
Blane took up the story. "Well, she thought
she was about to be Mrs. Murdoch Lancer, you see. Murdoch tried his best to
placate her but she was havin none of it. He decided
to charm her so he took her chocolates and flowers. Well, she took one look at
him and smiled very sweetly. She invited him in and sat him on the sofa."
Blane, who was barely controlling himself, went on.
"He started feelin sick. I mean, very sick. He
excused himself and ran for the door."
Scott and Johnny were smiling wide. "Well,
what was it?" Scott asked.
"Castor oil," Blane choked out.
"Murdoch told us later the coffee was horrible but he was afraid he'd hurt
her feelins if he didn't drink it."
"He didn't leave the house for two days,"
Johnny and Scott fell out laughing, tears streaming
down their faces.
"Alright!
I think that's enough walking down memory lane," Murdoch groused.
*******
"Ah, Murdoch, ya deserved it for leading the
poor girl on," Blane said.
"I didn't lead her on! Never
mind about that."
"What happened to her?" Johnny asked.
"She married less than a year later. She's got
five kids now."
"Guess she got over her broken heart,"
Johnny grinned.
"Can we change the subject? Andrew, what are
you studying?" Murdoch turned to the quietest Lancer.
"Philosophy," he mumbled.
"Scott went to Harvard. You took philosophy,
didn't you, son?"
"Yes, as a minor. Business was my major."
"Smart lad.
Always study somethin useful,"
"I understand
"Ay, it is that. We'll have to put that on the
tour," Blane said. "I think I can get us in," he grinned and
winked.
"Tour?"
Murdoch asked.
"Well, since your boys are here, they'll be wantin to see things."
"Yes, we do. We want to see the highlands,
too," Johnny added.
"Why would ya want to see that?" Andrew
asked.
"That's were Murdoch's from," Scott
shrugged.
The young man simply rolled his eyes.
"Andrew, help me with the drinks. Our guests
must be thirsty for some good
Scotch whiskey,"
"Now, you're talking," Murdoch smiled.
********
"And that would be our cue. Come on, boys,
your da will be up all night," Lorna said.
Blane saw his family off as they returned home.
Heather also said her goodnights, leaving the men alone.
When Duncan and Andrew returned, it was evident they'd
had words. Andrew's face was set in stone. The room was quiet for several
minutes as tension filled the air.
"This is fine Scotch, Duncan," Murdoch
commented.
"Aye, it is that," he replied.
"Tell me, boys. What do ya think of
ranching?" Blane asked.
"It's hard work. I must admit, I wasn't used
to it. It took some time," Scott said.
"Aw, you took right to it, brother. He's
pretty smart for a city boy," Johnny grinned.
"What about you, Johnny?"
"I like it fine," he said simply.
"Doesn't talk much, does
he?"
"Don't get him started," Murdoch warned.
"Hey," Johnny said and smacked his
father's arm.
Murdoch smiled. "Get him talking about horses
and you won't get a word in edgewise."
"Oh?" Blane asked.
"Johnny is very good with horses. The best
I've seen," Murdoch said with pride.
"You should see him work a wild
stallion," Scott agreed.
Johnny dropped his head at the praise and smiled.
"Well, that'll go on the list, too, then. We
have some fine horseflesh in
**********
It was
Sighs escaped both men as they settled into the
comfortable beds.
Johnny laughed softly. "Will you listen to
that? They're still going at it."
"I know. They'll be up all night."
Thundering laughter filtered through the door and
both young men burst out laughing themselves.
"They're like a bunch of kids," Johnny
said.
"I guess that's how they feel since they
haven't seen each other since they were kids."
"Yeah.
Boy, they sure do favor each other. And did you notice Murdoch's getting right
back into that accent?" he laughed.
Scott laughed, too. "I have to admit, even
after one short day in
"Thanks,
"I don't think we're going to get much sleep
as long as they keep carrying on like that."
"Oh, I don't know, brother. Just think of it
as music," Johnny said softly.
The
The next morning, Duncan and Blane had mapped out
the days activities. They would tour
As they approached the university, Johnny whistled
softly. "This place is bigger than Harvard."
"It's beautiful," Scott agreed as he took
in the gothic architecture.
"It was founded in 1413 and is the oldest
university in
"
As they approached the university, Blane directed
their attention to
After taking a short tour of the university, they
headed back to
"Murdoch, let's show the boys Loch Ness,"
Blane grinned.
Murdoch chuckled and nodded his agreement.
As they stood on the shore of the beautiful lake,
the boys were stunned at the breathtaking scene. Deep blue water lapped gently
against the shoreline. Mist danced across the surface of the lake that seemed
to go on forever. Gently sloping hills followed the shore; the bare branches of
the trees painted white with a recent snowfall.
"It's majestic," Scott said softly.
"Aye, it's also dangerous,"
"Dangerous? Doesn't look dangerous to
me," Johnny shrugged.
"Well, only if Nessie
comes out."
"Who?"
"Surely ya've heard
of the Loch Ness monster," Blane said straight-faced.
"Monster?
Oh, come on," Johnny laughed.
Murdoch laughed. "It's an old tale, boys.
Going back to the 7th century when the first sighting was made by a monk."
"There was a sighting just last October.
Overturned a boat," Blane said seriously.
Johnny cocked a brow as he watched his uncle's
face. He seemed sincere.
********
Looking back at the lake once more before they
left, Johnny thought these Scots were loco. 'Monster!
What a crock!'
They spent the rest of the day touring the city and
it was interesting but both boys wanted to see where their father spent his
childhood. The
And on the next day, they headed off to the train
station. Andrew came with them though it was obvious he didn't want to be
there. Johnny wondered about the young man. He didn't get along with his father, that was plain. He figured that was something they
had in common. At least, sometimes.
They settled in their seats as the train pulled out
of the station, heading north. Scott and Blane were talking about the
university and Andrew shrunk into his seat.
Sitting next to him, Johnny thought of a kid he'd
known once. Spoiled rotten to the core, used to getting his
own way. He wondered if that was the case here.
"Is it always this cold?" he asked,
trying to get a conversation going.
"Only in the winter," Andrew remarked a
bit snidely.
"Never gets this cold in
"What's
"Well, it's different depending on what part your in, like
"Gulf?"
"The
"I'd like to see
"So, why don't you?"
"Some day.
When my studies are finished," he said. Johnny couldn't miss the hint of
pain there.
"It may be none of my business, but I get the
feeling your don't get along too well with your
father."
"We don't agree on much of anything,"
Andrew acknowledged.
"Yeah, I have the same problem," Johnny
sighed.
Andrew looked at him with surprise. "That's
hard to believe. You seem to get along well."
"It's getting better. We have a lot of ..... stuff between us."
"Ma told me about your mother leaving your da."
Johnny tensed slightly. But then, he'd started this
talk so he couldn't balk about it. "Yeah. I grew
up pretty much on my own. Headstrong and independent.
Murdoch's the same. It's like two bulls goin at it," he laughed softly.
"How do you stand it?"
Johnny looked at him, surprised by the question.
"What's the alternative? He's my father. Should I turn my back on him?
Sure, we go at it, but I know he cares."
Andrew seemed to consider this for a moment.
"Look, all I'm saying is
I think it's normal for fathers and sons to argue. It's part of growing up and
becoming your own man. The only thing is, don't let it get so bad that you
can't find your way back to each other," Johnny advised.
*******
The train came to a slow stop and the elder Lancers
stood to disembark. Andrew sat still for a moment, deep in thought, until
Johnny nudged him.
The wind caught them up and seemed to cut right
through the wool coats. Scott wrapped his coat tighter around him and shivered.
"The next time we decide to send Murdoch off
somewhere, let's make it a warm place," he said.
Johnny laughed but agreed wholeheartedly.
None of the others seemed to be bothered by the
weather. The boys figured they must be used to it by now. They noticed Murdoch
staring out across the train depot toward the mountains looming nearby.
Scott and Johnny shared a knowing look and went to
stand on either side of him. "You okay?"
"Hmmm?
Oh, yes, just memories, son," Murdoch smiled.
"You want to tell us why these men are wearin dresses," Johnny said, looking around
suspiciously.
Murdoch chuckled. "They are not dresses.
They're kilts and that's what we wore. Most city folks don't wear them anymore
but the Highlanders do."
"Why?" Johnny asked.
"A number of reasons. Tradition, for one. They're warmer than trousers. The tartan
signifies which clan you belong to. They are easier to move in, something that
came in handy during battles. You can also remove them and use them for a
blanket. A tightly woven kilt is also virtually water-proof. So, you see, they
have many uses," Murdoch explained.
Johnny considered all this information, then shrugged. "Still looks like a dress to me."
"Alright, then.
We're off to the stables,"
All three American Lancers smiled widely.
"Well, I think Johnny should pick out our
mounts," Blane said.
"I think Murdoch and Scott would like to do
that for themselves," Johnny answered.
"No, no. Go ahead, brother. Pick us out some
good animals," Scott grinned and Murdoch nodded his approval.
Johnny shrugged and entered the stables. He
returned with the stableboy and six fine looking
animals. Stockier than what they were used to, but muscular.
"Nice, son," Murdoch smiled.
"Yeah?
This ain't," he said, pointing to the English saddles.
Murdoch sighed. "I'd forgotten about
that."
"Is somethin wrong,
brother?"
"No, it's just that we're used to western
saddles. It'll be fine, Johnny," he promised but his son was not
convinced.
Both Johnny and Scott decided not to bother with
the stirrups and vaulted onto their mounts. Johnny tried, but he just couldn't
stand his knees being bent so extremely.
"This what they use
in
"I'm afraid so," Scott said.
"How did you stand it?"
"Well, Johnny, it's what I was used to. I had
to get used to western saddles in the cavalry."
Johnny shook his head and let his legs dangle along
the horse's sides. The animal wasn't happy about it but he talked him into
going along. Casting a wry grin at his brother, he commented, "bet you're missin that new saddle about
now."
Scott smiled widely at the thought of his new
saddle. One he had not fully broken in yet.
*******
"You were in the cavalry, Scott?" Andrew
asked.
"Yes, during the war."
"War?"
"The Civil War in
"Oh, yes. I remember reading about that,"
Scott was taken aback by this. But then, he
supposed people became so wrapped up in their own lives, they forget there is a
whole world out there that may not give two hoots.
They set off across country, Duncan and Blane
taking the lead. Murdoch rode beside Andrew, Scott and Johnny brought up the
rear.
Even though it was winter, the view was
spectacular. Duncan and Blane took them high up in the mountains onto a ridge. Overlooking a valley of snow-spotted brown grass. Murdoch
described the scene in summer, when the valley was covered in heather and
bluebells.
Listening to their father's descriptions, Johnny
and Scott could see it before their eyes. As they stood there, the same thought
went through both their minds.
Scott voiced it. "If you replace that heather
with green grass, this could be a view of Lancer."
Murdoch smiled wanly. "It could, couldn't
it?"
"Murdoch, it's really beautiful. Did you live
near here?" Johnny asked.
"Not far. Just on the other side of this
mountain. There was a small village but it's long gone now."
"Would you lads like to see a castle?"
Blane asked.
"Sure," they chorused.
********
On the banks of the
"Uncle, you don't believe all that
nonsense," Andrew chided.
"I never said I did and I never said I didn't.
I'd just as soon not find out, laddy," he
winked.
The wind picked up just then and howled through the
many cracks and crevices of the old stone walls. It gave the illusion of
whistling. Johnny looked to the sky and saw a magnificent bird gliding over the
water.
"What is that? Looks like a hawk," he
asked.
"It's a Osprey. They
hunt fish and small animals,"
Johnny watched in fascination as the bird dove to
the water and came back with it's catch. He smiled as
it reminded him of the eagles back home.
"Come on, let's have a look," Andrew said
as he dismounted.
"I don't think that's a good idea,"
Murdoch said.
"Oh, come on. It'll be fun," Johnny
grinned and slid off the horse. Ground tying him, he set off
after Andrew. Scott was right beside him.
"Children," Duncan snipped.
Murdoch chuckled. "Yes, they are great aren't
they?"
The older men waited as the young men explored.
Sitting on an old stone wall, they watched the waves of the sea.
"How has it been, really?"
"Hard. Especially with Johnny," Murdoch
answered with a grim look.
"Oh? He seems like a lovely boy," Blane
spoke up.
"He has a temper. It's just
..... well, I told you about his past. How he
grew up."
"That's hardly his fault."
"No, but it made him grow up too fast. He's so
independent. I know that's supposed to be a good thing but with Johnny, it's
too much of a good thing."
Blane stood up and faced his brother. "You
think he doesn't need you?"
Murdoch looked at his brother then dropped his
eyes.
"That's malarkey, Murdoch. And ya know it.
Your children will always need ya. Even if they don't know
it. And that one ..... he
needs a lot from you."
"What do you mean?"
"He means, from what you've told us and what
we've seen, that boy isn't as grown up as he thinks. There's still a young lad
in there who never got to have a father before. Scott, too, for that matter."
"Scott? No, Scott's very mature."
"Aye, he is. Doesn't mean he doesn't need his da," Blane said.
Murdoch had to smile at that thought.
*********
Before he could answer, they heard the shouts.
Looking up, they saw the three young men running toward them. Laughing their
heads off, they nearly bowled the elder men over when they reached them.
"What in the name of ......."
"Murdoch, I told you I needed my gun,"
Johnny laughed, breathing heavily.
"How could you let us go in there without
protection?" Scott asked, unable to stop laughing himself.
Murdoch only shook his head at their antics. He
figured if he gave them a minute, they'd spill it.
"I've never seen anything like it,"
Andrew huffed out as he sank onto the low wall.
"Alright, what did ya see?" Blane asked,
amused.
"A ghost, Uncle.
The ugliest sight I've ever beheld," the young man laughed.
"What did you really see?" Murdoch asked.
It was Scott who found his control first. "Well,
there was a portrait on the wall. It was of a woman ....
we think," he grinned.
"Brother, if that was a woman, then
what have I been chasin all these years?"
Johnny asked.
Blane was tickled by this. "I take it she
wasn't a bonny lass?"
The boys fell out again. "That is the ugliest
woman I have ever seen."
"Scott Lancer!" Murdoch chastised.
"No, you don't understand, Murdoch. He's
right, she was ...." Johnny couldn't finish, he shuddered dramatically.
Murdoch laughed at his boys. "I think it's
time we headed back." He threw an arm around each of his sons as they
walked back to the horses.
Andrew followed but Blane and
"I don't know what he's so worried
about,"
"Neither do I,
brother. Those boys are priceless."
********
Scott and Johnny stood on the platform at the train
station and took one last long look at the countryside. Murdoch walked up
between them and smiled.
"It's really somethin.
I can see why you miss it," Johnny said softly. There was a light in his
eyes that Murdoch had seen before. The same light as when he looked out over
Lancer.
He pulled his boys close to his side. "I guess
when I saw Lancer, it reminded me so much of
home."
"That's why you love it so much," Scott
said.
Looking up into his father's eyes, Scott saw a sadness take over. "It's wonderful that we can have
memories. All we have to do is close our eyes and we can see a place or a
person."
"Yes, son.
I have missed it. I guess over the years, I had forgotten how much. But, I don't
regret leaving. I wouldn't have the two of you if I hadn't."
"That's true," Johnny nodded. "Just
think of all the fun you would have missed out on." A crooked grin slid up
the side of his face.
Murdoch chuckled then turned at the sound of the
approaching train. Sighing a little, he walked back over to his brothers.
"Maybe this wasn't such a good idea. I mean,
if he's gonna be so sad," Johnny frowned.
"No, brother.
It was a great idea. It's like me. I miss
Johnny nodded, he too understood. Part of him would
always miss Mexico. He figured he was luckier than
they. He was much closer to his homeland. Smiling, he remembered it wasn't
really his 'homeland'. Still, he'd spent most of his life there and it felt
like home until he'd come back to Lancer.
*********
They all gathered again for supper at
As they served the dishes, Scott and Johnny stared
warily.
"Somethin wrong,
boys?" Heather asked.
"Oh, no ma'am.
It's just .... what is
it?" Scott asked politely.
"Shepherd's pie, black bun bread,
dumplings and haggis."
"Haggis?"
"Aye, taste it. It's really good,"
The boys looked at each other, suspicion running
rampant. Murdoch nodded to them both, a serious expression on his face.
Johnny was the first. Murdoch wasn't surprised. He
figured Scott's upbringing would preclude him from saying anything.
Johnny grabbed his napkin and spit the bite out.
"What the hell is that?"
"Johnny!"
Blane and Duncan burst out laughing, followed by
the rest of the clan.
His face reddened and he looked apologetically at
Heather. "Sorry, it's just ..... different,"
he mumbled.
"It's alright, Johnny. It takes some gettin used to," she said gently.
"What exactly is in this?" Scott asked,
having actually swallowed his bite.
"Well, let's see now. Sheep's
lungs, heart, liver and windpipe. It's boiled and minced and mixed with
beef suet, spices and oatmeal. Then it's stuffed in sheep's stomach and boiled
again," Lorna explained.
Johnny felt his stomach roll but not as much as
Scott, who had actually ingested it.
Scott smiled weakly and took a long drink of his
wine. He managed to eat a little of the shepherd's pie but his appetite had
left him.
********
"Maybe you'll like this better, Scott,"
Heather said as she placed a plate in front of him. "It's
He braced himself and took a bite, pleasantly
surprised. "This is good. Very good," he smiled.
"It is. Say, think you could give us the
recipe for Teresa?" Johnny asked.
"I'm sure I could. I'm glad you like it. I
think tomorrow maybe we should have some steaks," she laughed.
Both boys dropped their heads, embarrassed.
"Now, don't ya go feelin
bad, either of ya. I'm sure your American food wouldn't sit too well with me,
either," she said.
Johnny grinned. "Ever had Mexican food?"
They all said no together and he smiled wider.
"What's going on in that head of yours,
son?" Murdoch asked.
"Nothing.
I just think it's a shame they can't experience some of the things we
like," Johnny shrugged.
"Well, maybe you can show me how to make
something, Johnny," Heather said.
"I doubt you have what I'd need here,
ma'am," he said.
"The market has some wide varieties. I mean,
if you want to, Johnny," Blane said.
"Sure, wouldn't hurt to look. That is, if you
don't mind turning your kitchen over," Johnny smiled.
"I'll turn it over, young man, but part of cookin is cleanin up the
mess," she answered in a maternal voice.
"That's what Scott's for."
"Hey! How did I get in on this?"
"Sorry, brother, but that's how it goes,"
Johnny shrugged.
********
After the long day out in the cold, Johnny was looking
forward to a nice hot bath. He stood and stared at the tub for a while before
deciding he needed some direction.
Obtaining his brother's assistance, the two of them
figured out the alien device. Scott soon found it wasn't much different than
the new techniques being used on the east coast of
"We need one of these," Johnny stated.
"It's much the same as the ones in
Scott left his brother to his privacy. Johnny slid
down into the water and leaned his head on the rim. Sighing, he thought he was
in heaven as the heat enveloped his muscles.
After about an hour, the water began to cool. He
quickly soaped himself then plunged his head under the water. Coming up, he
resisted the urge to shake his head as he usually did. No sense in makin a mess in someone else's home.
Johnny sighed and stood up, water running down the
lines and contours of his body. He stepped out onto a rug and grabbed the
towel. Drying his hair first then the rest of his body.
He threw the towel over his shoulder to dry his
back as the door flew open. He pulled the towel across himself quickly.
"Oh! I'm sorry, I didn't know you were in
here," Heather said quickly, her eyes moving downward despite herself.
"I'll just .... I'll come back," she stammered, red-faced, and closed
the door.
He stood there for a long minute,
sure she'd seen about all there was to see in that second. Ordinarily, a
beautiful woman seeing him naked wouldn't bother him. Ordinarily.
He blushed a little despite himself then quickly got dressed.
Back in the room, Scott was lying on the bed
reading. Johnny walked in and went to his bed, sitting down heavily.
"Something wrong?"
Scott asked over his book.
"No, not a thing.
Other than Heather just saw me naked."
Scott dropped the book beside him and sat up,
smiling.
"Don't, brother. She just barged right
in," Johnny said with a warning tone.
"Well, I'm sure she didn't see anything,"
Scott tried.
"She saw everything," Johnny mumbled.
Scott grinned. "I didn't hear any
screaming."
Johnny looked over at him and threw his pillow.
Heritage
and Memories
The next day, Murdoch and the boys went out on
their own. Murdoch showed them the docks and shipping yards. He pointed out
where his father had worked. They went to the cemetery that Murdoch had not
been to himself.
Standing at the graves of their grandparents left
Scott and Johnny feeling a greater loss than they expected. They watched their
father closely. Both concerned for him. He hadn't been at the funerals and they
knew that was hard for him.
Murdoch knelt down beside the graves and bowed his
head. Both boys knelt beside him. Each putting a supportive
hand on their father's shoulders.
"I'm so grateful to have you both here with
me," Murdoch whispered.
"We're grateful to be here, sir."
"You okay?"
"It's hard, son. This is the first time I've
really gotten to say goodbye," he answered and his voice caught at the
end.
"You want to be alone?" Johnny asked
gently.
"No. No, I'm glad you're here," he shook
his head.
Johnny sat down and crossed his legs. "Tell us
about them."
Murdoch and Scott both sat as well. The three of
them, sitting on the ground in the cemetery, might have seemed an odd sight to
those passing by.
"Da was a hard
worker. Always taking on extra. He wanted the best for
us. He wasn't an affectionate man, but we knew he loved us. I remember how he
used to 'forget' things, like his lunch. I think he did it on purpose so one or
more of us boys would come down. Just so he could see a little more of us. He
worked so much." Murdoch stopped here, joy and sadness mixing heavily in
his voice.
"Ma was, well, she was a mother. Always hovering, always worrying. Even
when there was nothing to worry about. She was very affectionate with us
all."
"Yeah, mother's are
like that. Embarrassing ya in front of your friends," Johnny smiled at a
memory.
Murdoch laughed. "She did that! Of course,
we'd complain and she'd just say; too bad, I'm your mother and I'm
allowed."
"That's exactly what my mother said. God! Did
she ever give you a spit bath?" Johnny asked, laughing at the thought.
"Yes!" Murdoch joined his laughter.
"What is a spit bath?" Scott asked.
"Well, son.
She'd spit on her fingers and wipe a smudge of dirt off my face with it."
"That is disgusting!" Scott said,
horrified at the thought.
"Well, at least that's one thing you got out
of,
"God, Scott. I'm so sorry. That was a stupid
thing to say," he apologized sincerely.
"It's alright, Johnny."
"No, it isn't. I ....."
"Hey," Scott said, placing a hand on his
brother's arm. "I know you didn't mean anything."
Murdoch was touched by the affection his sons
displayed. "We should take a look at those stores. See if there's anything
you can use for this grand Mexican feast of yours," he said, trying to end
the awkwardness.
*******
By the time they had finished shopping,
Scott had convinced his brother all was well between them.
Johnny was pleasantly surprised at all he'd been
able to find. He had to substitute a few things but he figured it would work
out well.
Scott was looking at the fabrics with interest.
Murdoch explained the tartans and how each design symbolized a clan. He showed
his son the closest thing to the Lancer clan tartan and Scott bought a bolt of
the cloth for Teresa.
They arrived back at
Unsure what to do, they stood there for a moment
and listened.
"I don't know what's the
matter with you, boy. What are ya gonna do with a Philosophy degree? Sit
and think about life while everybody else is livin
it?!"
"Don't worry about it, da!
It's my life, isn't it?"
"And my money you're wastin!"
"Is that what your
worried about, then? Well, don't! I'll pay back every penny ya've
wasted on me!"
Murdoch cleared his throat loudly as he walked into
the room, Johnny and Scott right behind him.
"Ah, did ya get everythin
ya need?"
"I think so. I'm just gonna take this to the
kitchen," Johnny said softly and Scott went with him.
"Sorry about that, Murdoch. But, you know how
it is with these children,"
Murdoch smiled a little. "I only wish I could
have argued with my boys about their choice of studies."
Andrew fidgeted a little. "Well, tell Johnny
I'll be lookin forward to supper. If you'll excuse
me," he said and quickly left the room.
*******
"I don't know what I'm going to do with that
lad,"
"Why do you have to do anything?"
"He's wastin his
life, Murdoch. Surely, ya can see that?"
"What I see is a sensitive young man who wants
to understand people and this world."
"Hmmph!
Sensitive. Well, I suppose I should be grateful he's not as
'sensitive' as Ian."
Scott and Johnny walked back in just in time to
hear this.
"What does that mean?" Murdoch asked.
Murdoch cocked a brow at this. "No, I didn't
know that."
Scott and Johnny exchanged surprised looks but
neither commented. Johnny realized now what Ian's first comment to him had
meant.
"How is Blane handling it?" Murdoch was
asking.
"He doesn't know what to do, Murdoch. He's
agonized over this, I can tell you. We've had many talks about it."
"Nothing he can do," Johnny said softly.
They both turned to him, surprised they weren't
alone any longer.
"What do ya mean?"
"I mean there's nothing he can do. I'm sure
not an expert but I knew a fella once like that. He
said it wasn't something that could be fixed. Said it was just the way he felt
and nothing could be done about it. He said the worst part was his family
turned their backs on him. They were ashamed and disowned him."
"Well, Blane hasn't done that."
"That's good to hear," Johnny smiled.
"I'm getting ready to destroy your wife's kitchen. Will she be home
soon?" He blushed a little, thinking of last
night.
Johnny laughed as well. "I'll try to be
gentle." He figured she hadn't mentioned the debacle to her husband and he
was grateful.
*******
Heather came home half an hour before supper and
went to her room to change. She had spent the day with Lorna. Both women fretting over the evening meal. Both terrified of
what they would find in the kitchen. She had tried to put last night out of her
mind. Still, she felt she should apologize to Johnny again. She had finally
decided to see how he acted before saying anything. It was possible it hadn't
bothered him, she supposed.
Scott set the table beautifully. He'd even managed
to find some flowers in the mid-winter. He'd spent the afternoon with Johnny
but his job was easier. Johnny had him making small piñatas to set at each
place. He lit the candles then helped his brother clean up.
He was surprised. Johnny had been cleaning as he
went which made the job much easier. As he'd explained, this was the way his
mother had done it. Had drilled into his head how much easier the clean-up was
this way.
As they settled at the table, Murdoch smiled at the
settings.
"What are these?" Ian asked.
"They're piñatas. Usually they're bigger than
this. They're filled with candy. During holidays and birthdays, they're hung up
and the children use sticks to break them. The candy will spill out and the children
all dive for it," Murdoch explained.
"Sounds like fun," Blane smiled.
"Ordinarily, they're made of clay. It's easier
to break. I guess Johnny went easy on you with the paper," Murdoch
chuckled.
"I'll have you know, I made these," Scott
said as he entered with two platters.
"I've got him pretty well trained,"
Johnny grinned as he followed with two bowls.
"Now, no peeking," he admonished as they
both disappeared back to the kitchen. His eyes were everywhere but on Heather.
He knew he'd turn red as a tomato if he looked at her.
"I'm wonderin what
your kitchen looks like," Lorna sighed.
Heather could only grimace at the thought.
The boys returned with the last of the food and sat
down.
"Okay, Murdoch, will you and Scott help with
the fixins?" Johnny asked.
"Be glad to, son. As long as you explain
it," Murdoch smiled.
*******
Johnny revealed the first platter. "These are tortilla's. They're basically a thin
bread. This is the beef and the rest are the toppings. Oh, these a refried
beans and this," he stopped and removed the lid of a bowl with flourish,
"is salsa."
Grinning with satisfaction, he continued. "I
have to warn you, this is spicy food. I did tame it down a little for
you."
"I, for one, thank you for that,
brother."
Johnny smiled. "Okay, everyone take a
tortilla. Now, a spoonful of everything goes in the middle. Doesn't matter what
order."
He watched until they were all done. "Now,
roll it up like this. Good. Now, take a spoonful of salsa and spread it over
the top. The beans are a side dish so just help yourselves."
When they had all finished making their burritos,
Johnny went on. He demonstrated how to cut the burrito and they
all followed suit. "Okay, dig in."
Every one of the Scottish Lancers waited until
Johnny had taken a bite before forging ahead. He watched them closely.
"This is wonderful,"
"It is delicious, Johnny. Oh, it is a bit hot,
isn't it?" Blane stated as his brain caught up with his tongue and he felt
the slow burn.
Johnny grinned in satisfaction. "Maybe I'll
let you try the 'real' stuff sometime. The ones that'll have smoke comin out of your ears," he laughed.
"It is mild, son. But very good," Murdoch
said. He was used to the spicier type of the dish but was very glad his son had
tempered things.
"Yes, it usually has me sweating," Scott
agreed with a laugh.
"It's always nice to experience different
cultures," Andrew said.
"Maybe you'll come visit us sometime,
Andrew," Johnny offered.
"I'd like that."
"Anytime. All of you. I'd love you to see the ranch," Murdoch
said.
*******
"As a matter of fact, I was thinking about
that, brother. I thought it would be a good experience for my Ian to visit
Murdoch looked at Blane with surprise but recovered
quickly. He looked over at Ian who had his head down. "We'd love to have
him."
"How about takin him
with ya when you go back?" Blane asked.
"That's great! How about it,
Ian?" Johnny asked.
The young man looked up at him and shrugged.
"Not my choice," he replied softly.
Blane ignored the comment and turned to
"I'm sure we can work it out. In fact, I was
going to speak to you about that very thing, Murdoch. The
"
"I know ya didn't. And I would've gotten you a
refund for your trip here. But, I figured since it was a gift from your boys,
that wouldn't be right. So, this is my gift to the three of you."
"That's very generous of you, Uncle,"
Scott said.
Scott smiled back at him. "I only wish we
could stay longer."
"So do I, but it'll be spring by the time we
get back as it is," Murdoch reminded him.
"So?" Andrew asked.
All three of them laughed a little. "It's
calving time. Very busy at the ranch," Johnny explained. "Hey, Ian. That'll be quite an experience for you. Have
you ever seen an animal give birth?"
He blushed and simply shook his head no.
"I wish I could go as well," Andrew said.
"Why can't you?" Scott asked.
Getting confused looks all around, he went on.
"The university isn't going anywhere. I took two years off while I served
in the cavalry. Why don't you come with us?"
"There's certainly plenty of room,
Andrew," Murdoch said.
"Come on. I'll show you how cowboys
live," Johnny grinned. "Maybe even give you some perspective,"
he added with a cocked brow.
Andrew looked to his father who was fascinated at
the idea. "If you want to, son, I'm all for it."
"Alright, then.
I'd love to. And Ian won't feel so out of place with another alien
around," he laughed. But he saw the look of gratitude on his cousin's face.
*********
The next few days, the family spent as much time
together as possible. Heather didn't mention the awkwardness of the tub room
and Johnny was grateful.
Johnny wasn't sure he wanted to know how the ships
were built. Especially since he had to get on one soon.
"May I ask you something, Uncle?" Scott
started.
"Sure ya can."
"Well, I ... that is, we were wondering if you
could tell us about Murdoch."
"Tell you about him? What do ya mean?"
"Well, what he was like as a kid. You know,
was he wild or what?" Johnny clarified.
"Of course, at the time it wasn't so funny. Da was at the end of his rope, I can tell ya."
"Why? What happened?" Scott asked.
"Well, I have ta swear
ya both to secrecy. If he knew I'd told ya, he'd throttle me."
Both young men nodded their acceptance.
"They met at school. The lad's name was Angus.
He was from a poor family. Of course, that didn't matter, but his da was an old drunk. Angus was wild but for some reason,
Murdoch became friends with him. Angus was always stealing. He got Murdoch in
some serious trouble once. Oh, your da hadn't done
anything. But he associated with Angus so he was a suspect."
"Suspect?
That does sound serious," Johnny commented.
"Aye, it was. Angus robbed a store. Stabbed the owner when he came in unexpectedly. The man
survived, thank the Lord. But the whole mess had Murdoch in deep trouble. They
finally realized he had nothin to do with it. Angus
was sent off to jail and Murdoch lost the love of his life."
"Fiona?" Scott asked.
"Oh, no.
She was just a rebound. No, your da was crazy over another lass. I believe if she hadn't left him, he would
have never gone to
"Why did she leave?" Johnny asked.
"Well, her da was so
upset over all that business with Angus, he made her
stop seein Murdoch. He sent her to
*******
They fell quiet, the three of them. Scott and
Johnny were disturbed by this information. They wondered about this girl.
"Do you know what happened to her?"
Johnny asked.
"No, lad.
She never came back as far as I know."
"Is she why he went to
"Well, he'd tell ya no but I believe she is
the reason. At least, most of the reason."
"Was your father mad at him?" Johnny
asked.
"I don't think da
was angry. I think he was disappointed. That was probably worse for Murdoch. He
thought the sun rose and set on that man. Still, they came to an understandin. Da was fine when
Murdoch left. He had no bad feelins."
"I'm glad. It's hard to leave things badly and
then never have the chance to make them right," Scott said.
Johnny frowned at that thought. "So, the old
man was pretty tame, huh?"
"Too bad," Johnny grinned.
"And what about you?
What made ya come ta be a gunfighter?"
Johnny was surprised by the question, to say the
least. He dropped his eyes. "Guess he told you a lot, huh?" he asked
quietly.
"No, just the basics.
Oh, I know about both your mothers. Tragic, it is. But, he never has said
anything much."
Johnny looked up and scanned the restaurant.
"Maybe we should head back."
He felt his uncle's hand on his arm. "I'm not
trying to make you uncomfortable, Johnny. But, ya are my nephew and I worry
about you. Both of you. I want ya to be happy with
your da. I want him to be happy, too."
"We are, most of the time," Johnny smiled
at the man.
The brothers exchanged surprised looks. "I'm
not sure what you mean by 'need him'," Scott spoke.
"Well, for advice and guidance. Like any young
lad would need. You're not too grown to be taking some advice, are ya?" he
grinned.
They both laughed a little at this. "No, I
don't suppose we are."
"I wish you would all just pack up and come
home with us," Johnny said.
********
A week later, the Lancers were packed and ready to
return home. Although all three were missing the ranch, there was a tinge of
regret there.
Johnny wanted to talk to his father about his
cousins but there never seemed to be a good time. The older set
of brothers were spending every available minute together.
He understood. He couldn't imagine being so far
away from Scott. It even made him sad to think of leaving them all behind. He
sat on the bed and watched Scott pack.
"You know, this is gonna be really hard on the
old man."
"I know. I don't know how to make it any
easier, though," Scott sighed.
Johnny laughed softly. "Wouldn't it be somethin if we packed up the whole clan and took them with
us?"
Scott had to laugh as well. "It would. I wish
we could. I really like them all."
"Yeah, me too.
It's funny how people can get to you so fast." There was a gleam in his
eye that Scott did not miss.
"Yes, it's funny how that happens," he
smiled and sat next to his brother. He wrapped an arm around Johnny's
shoulders. "We just have to be there for Murdoch, that's all."
"Yeah, I'll miss them. I'm really glad we
came. Did you pick up that gift for Teresa?"
"I did, but I think we owe her a whole lot
more than that."
"That's the truth. Let's do the windows for
her this year and without any griping," Johnny thought aloud.
"Hey, that's a good idea. She'll appreciate
that almost as much as a store bought gift," Scott laughed.
"Wait til we tell
her about all those fellas in the
"Kilts, Johnny, kilts," Scott reminded
him.
"Whatever you say, brother.
They're still skirts," Johnny laughed.
"Did you get that recipe?"
"Yep, all tucked in safe and sound. She'll
like that too, I think. Ya know, sometimes, I forget how special Teresa is.
Don't let me do that anymore, ok?"
"We'll have to remind each other. I'm afraid I
tend to take her for granted, too," Scott said, disappointed in himself.
"Well, after this trip, I don't think either
of us will forget."
Goodbyes
Johnny understood the big deal about the Bon Voyage
now. They had spent thirty minutes on the dock saying goodbye. Now, they stood
on the deck waving down to their family.
In just two short weeks, they had become attached.
Both young men were keeping a close watch on their father as he waved goodbye
to his brothers. Knowing it may well be the last time he ever saw them.
Unbeknownst to each other, they had both cajoled
Duncan and Blane about coming for a visit.
Andrew and Ian weren't as sad, however. Both young
men were thrilled to be getting away from home. Even though they would miss
their families, this new adventure was an unexpected pleasure.
For Ian, it was a chance to have the time to figure
out his life. To find himself away from the sometimes
oppressive atmosphere of his family. He knew what they all thought. He
didn't really care. He was shy, that was all. He knew it and he hated it but he
didn't know how to fix it. Maybe now, he could find his way.
They all went below decks to find two suites and a
single cabin waiting for them. The best on the ship,
evidently.
Murdoch decided he needed to talk to his nephews
about what was expected of them and what they could expect.
"Andrew, Ian, we need to talk."
Johnny and Scott got up to leave.
"Where are you two going?" Murdoch asked.
"We know that tone, sir. We thought we'd just
take a stroll," Scott grinned.
"Sit."
And they did - quickly.
"I only want to talk to you boys about the
ranch. It's going to be very different for you. I want you to know what to
expect and what I expect," he began.
Everyone kept their eyes plastered on the floor.
"I expect, that while
you're with us, you will do as I say. I am responsible for both of you. Your
fathers would have my head if anything were to happen."
This comment brought a snort from Andrew and a roll
of the eyes from Ian.
"Regardless of what you both might think, your
fathers love you," he continued firmly. "Now, ranch life is hard. The
land is unforgiving. There are dangers from both nature and man. I expect Scott
and Johnny to look out for you both. I also expect you both to earn your
keep."
"What?" Johnny asked. "Murdoch, you
don't mean you want them to be cowboys?"
"That's exactly what I mean, son."
"Sir, do you think that's really fair? I mean,
they are only visiting," Scott offered.
"A very long visit.
And I'm very glad to have you both. But idle hands are the devil's workshop. If
you're going to get in trouble, it will be honest trouble," Murdoch said,
raising a brow.
"I have no objection to workin,
Uncle," Andrew said.
"Neither do I,"
Ian agreed.
"Good! I think this is going to work out fine.
Until then, we are all still on holiday. So let's enjoy ourselves," he
smiled.
Scott and Johnny shook their heads as they gave
each other a woeful look.
********
"Pretty, ain't it?"
He turned to find his brother watching him and
smiled. "It certainly is."
Johnny walked up to the railing, raising a foot and
settling it on the lower rail as he leaned against the top. "Springtime."
"It's my favorite time of year."
"I know," he smiled. "Guess you'll
be seein the old man today."
"Guess so."
"Want me to come along? I know he'd be really
upset if he missed seeing me," Johnny grinned devilishly.
Scott laughed outright. "I guess he'll just
have to be disappointed. But I was thinking of inviting him to dinner with us
tonight."
Johnny smiled and shook his head. "Are you
ever not polite? Why don't you have dinner with him? Give the old man the day
with you."
Scott frowned a little.
"Murdoch will understand, Scott," Johnny
laid a hand on his arm.
"Stop reading my mind."
"Stop makin it so
easy."
********
"Well, there it is, boys.
Both young men drank in the site in silent awe.
"Say, Murdoch, you tired?" Johnny asked.
"No, son.
I haven't been up that long. Why would I be tired?"
"No reason. It's just that with Scott spending
the day and evening with Harlan, I thought you could entertain the rest of
us," he grinned.
Scott found something fascinating to look at to his
left, away from the rest of them.
Murdoch smiled a little. "Johnny, you are as
subtle as a sledgehammer. I'd be glad to give a tour while Scott is otherwise
engaged."
Scott turned back and smiled gratefully at his
father. "Thank you, sir."
Murdoch walked around to the other side so he could
stand next to his eldest. "Did you think I would be upset? Scott, I don't
want you to feel you can't see Harlan. It's only natural you'd want to spend
time with him while we're here."
"Well, after his visit to the ranch....."
"I hope he's learned a lesson," Murdoch
cut him off. "Go and enjoy your visit, son."
"Yes, sir," he smiled.
The ship's horn blew and Johnny smiled and shook
his head. "I don't think I ever want to hear that sound again."
"I thought you were thinking about a life at
sea, John. As much time as you've spent with the crew," Murdoch cocked a
brow.
"Yeah, well, they have better whiskey than the
bar," he laughed. "I'll just stick to ranching if you don't
mind."
"I certainly don't. Especially right
now," Scott grinned.
*******
They went back to the
"Did you get a pretty new suit?" Johnny
grinned.
"I guess I'll have to let you be the judge of
that, brother. As soon as I take a hot bath, that is."
Johnny looked at his cousins and winked. "Cleanest rancher in
"Well, what would you boys like to see? Any ideas?" Murdoch asked.
"Been to Harvard but if Andrew and Ian want to
see it, I know one of the teachers there," Johnny grinned.
"Actually, I would like to see Harvard. I'm
afraid it's the only thing I know about," Andrew spoke up.
"Anything is fine with me as long as it's on
land," Ian smiled for the first time.
"Why don't we all change and we'll get
going," Murdoch said.
Johnny was sorely tempted to change alright but he
held onto his promise to his father. No gun east of the
As they all came out of their rooms, Scott appeared
in the door. He was wearing a dark blue suit and tie with a crisp white shirt.
The corner of a handkerchief appeared from his breast pocket. He was wearing
shiny black shoes.
Johnny whistled loudly. "Whhoooeee! Don't you look pretty!"
"Very handsome, son," Murdoch said, giving
Johnny 'the look'.
"Thank you, sir. Well, I guess I'll be on my
way."
"Does he know you're coming?" Murdoch
asked.
Scott smiled a little. "No, I wanted to
surprise him. My luck, he'll be out of town or stuck in a meeting all
day."
"Well, if he is, just come on over to Harvard.
That's where we'll be," Johnny said as he hung an arm around Scott's
shoulder.
"Harvard?"
"Andrew wants to see it. Hey, maybe he'll
finish his schoolin there."
Scott swallowed hard and made a promise to himself
to never enter the college again.
*******
They stepped out of the cab in front of the rows of
buildings and stared. Johnny started across the lawn but stopped when his
father called out.
"Where are you going?"
"I told ya, I know one of the teachers. Come
on," he nodded his head and took off again.
"It's splendid," Ian said.
"Yeah.
It was built in 1636. It's the oldest college in the country. Two presidents
went here," Johnny said and Murdoch looked oddly at him. He shrugged and
grinned. "That's what Scott said."
There was still a bite in the air but nothing like
the first time he'd walked across this lawn. Johnny appreciated the warmth of
the sun of his face. He walked into Harvard Hall and looked around.
Andrew and Ian took in the vast foyer, nodding in appreciation.
"This way," Johnny whispered.
Murdoch was amused at his son. He could make
himself at home anywhere.
Johnny peeked through the window in the door and
waited. He smiled and waved as Professor Ludlow spotted him. The man smiled
this time as he went to the door.
"Back again, I see? Are you signing up for my
class, young man?"
Johnny laughed softly. "Not likely. Guess
you're in the middle of somethin?"
"Just finishing.
Give me five minutes," the professor winked and returned to his class.
"How do you know him?" Murdoch asked.
"Oh, he's Scott's favorite teacher. I met him
when we were here before. Didn't like him one bit," Johnny laughed.
"That seems to have changed,"
Murdoch half-asked.
"Yeah, he was pretty stuffy at first but I put
him in his place."
Murdoch chuckled. "Of course you did."
*******
The students filed out and Professor Ludlow invited
them in. "Scott's not with you?"
"No, he's visiting his grandfather. We just
got back from
An amused smile flitted across the man's face as he
shook hands with them all. "Yes, I believe I have heard of it. Tiny little
place?"
Andrew laughed and Johnny frowned.
"He's teasing you, son.
Johnny shrugged. "School's a school to
me."
"Mr. Lancer, I must say your son made a
lasting impression on me."
"Yes, he has that ability."
"Now, to what do I owe this pleasure?"
"Just showing these two around.
Andrew's been kinda put out over there and he might
want to come to school here," Johnny winked.
"I never said I was .... what
is 'put out'?" Andrew asked.
"Leave your cousin alone, Johnny. Professor,
we didn't mean to intrude. Johnny insisted you wouldn't mind."
"And he's right, I don't."
"Hey, why don't you have supper with us
tonight? We're stayin at the
Although surprised by the invitation,
"Seven?"
"I'll be there."
*******
Scott walked into the offices of Garrett
Enterprises and sucked in a deep breath. Nostalgia hit him hard. He walked
upstairs to his grandfather's offices and approached the secretary.
"Is Mr. Garrett in?"
She looked up and burst into a smile. "Scott!
What a wonderful surprise!"
"Thank you, Miss Devin."
"Oh, yes, he's in." She looked about
surreptitiously. "Why don't you just announce yourself."
He smiled gratefully at her and nodded. Easing the
door open softly, he popped his head in. Harlan was sitting at his desk,
engrossed in a file. Scott couldn't help but grin as he slipped in and closed
the door silently.
He stood there for several seconds, trying to keep
from bursting into laughter. Harlan hadn't changed. He still worked too hard.
"You'll go blind reading so hard."
The old man looked up and his mouth dropped open.
Pulling his reading glasses off, he stood. "Scotty!"
He rounded the desk and approached his grandson,
hand extended. "Scotty, my boy! How are
you?"
"Well, sir. And you?"
"Fine, fine.
Look at you! That's a fine looking suit. Well, what are you doing here? And why
wasn't I informed?"
"Slow down, grandfather. I wanted to surprise
you," he laughed.
"Well, you certainly did. Sit down, my boy. To
what do I owe this honor?"
"Well, I was on my way home and ...."
"On your way home?
Where have you been?"
"
"
"Calm down, sir. I went to
"Did you leave them there?"
"Grandfather."
"I was only joking, my boy. Well, why didn't
you see me before you left?"
"There wasn't time. I'm sorry, I wanted to but
the schedules didn't allow it," Scott explained.
"Ah, yes. When you wired about the ship
schedules I was under the impression it was only Murdoch going."
"Well, at the time it was. Johnny and I went
at the last minute."
"I see. Well, what did you think of
Scott chose to ignore it, however. "It was
fascinating, sir. It's a beautiful country. We met Murdoch's brothers and
their families. In fact, two of our cousins came back with us to visit."
Harlan kept smiling, inside he was screaming. Two
more Lancers!
"And where is everyone now?"
"They're out sightseeing. I thought you and I
could have dinner if you're not busy," Scott replied.
"Busy? My boy, nothing could be more
important. I'll just check with Miss Devin and rearrange anything I have
scheduled. Stay right there," Harlan said as he nearly bolted for the
door.
********
Murdoch took the boys on a tour of some of the more
famous sights in
Murdoch had one stop he knew they had to make. The
cab pulled to a halt and they all got out.
"Boy, these are some big houses. Where are
we?" Johnny asked.
Murdoch smiled and took hold of his shoulders. He
turned him to face one house in particular. He even guided Johnny up the drive
a little.
"This is where Scott grew up," he
announced.
Johnny looked at his father, then back at the
house, his jaw slack. He walked slowly up the drive, taking in the yard and
side drive. He walked up the steps and touched the white columns. His hand sliding down the rough surface slowly.
His reaction surprised Murdoch and he wasn't sure
what was going through his son's mind. He was beginning to think he'd made a
mistake. As he was about to retrieve his son, the front door opened.
A stately looking man in a suit stood there and
looked down his nose at him. "May I help you?"
Johnny only stared at him, his mind registering the
name but knowing this is not how he pictured the man. "Roberts?"
"Yes, sir," the butler said with a flat
face.
"I .... uh.."
Murdoch stepped up. "I'm Murdoch Lancer and
this is my son, Johnny."
The butler stiffened, if that was possible, and
merely stared at him. "Mr. Garrett is not at home."
"We know. Scott is with him right now. We were
just seeing the sights and I thought Johnny might like to see the house where
his brother grew up," Murdoch explained tersely.
"Mr. Scott is here?" The butler's face
relaxed measurably and one would almost think he smiled.
"I shouldn't have brought you here,
Johnny."
"Please, forgive me, sir. I was taken aback.
Mr. Johnny, would you like to come in?" Roberts asked,
much more friendly now.
"Only if you don't call me Mr. Johnny,"
he smiled back.
"We'll wait out here," Andrew said, not
wanting to intrude.
*******
They stepped into the foyer. The first thing Johnny
saw was the grand staircase winding up and around. He saw the crystal
chandelier and noted the high polished marble floors. He suddenly felt out of
place here. He couldn't imagine Scott growing up in such a
..... cold place.
"I'm sure Mr. Scott wouldn't mind if you saw
his room," Roberts said and motioned for them to follow.
As they topped the stairs, Johnny saw the long hall
on either side. He couldn't even count the doors. Roberts headed to the right
and didn't stop until he came to the last door. Opening it, he explained,
"the room is exactly as Mr. Scott left it two
years ago."
Johnny stepped inside with trepidation. Room? This was like the hotel suite. A
large sitting area with the bedroom off to the left. Another door to the
right that Johnny assumed held a bath. The bed was huge. He shook his head and
went to the window.
Murdoch watched him, wondering what he was thinking
of all this. He had been in the house but never in Scott's room. Though, he
wasn't surprised at the grandeur.
Johnny let his fingers run softly over the velvet
drape as he looked out the window to a view of a small, but pretty park. The
trees were just beginning to come alive again in the spring air. Flowers were
budding in symmetrical rows along the walk below. Everything laid
out perfectly.
He sighed softly, a smile curving up one side of his
mouth. He turned to find his father watching him intently. "Is your wife
here? Scott told me about you both. I'd like to meet her."
"Yes sir, she will be honored to meet you as
well, I'm sure. This way, please."
As they walked out into the hall, Johnny hesitated.
"Which room is Harlan's?"
Roberts was surprised by the question, as was
Murdoch. "At the far end, sir."
Johnny nodded. Figures, he thought.
*********
They were shown to the kitchen and, once more,
Johnny was overwhelmed by the size. Boy, Teresa would go crazy in a place like
this.
A woman appeared. She was dressed in a plain gray
dress, her hair in a neat bun on top of her head, more than slightly graying.
"Johnny?"
"Mrs. Roberts," he smiled.
She walked up and hugged him fiercely. "So good to meet you. Scott has written and told us all
about you. How wonderful that you're here," she smiled.
"Thank you. He's told me all about the both of
you, too," Johnny said softly, a bit embarrassed.
"And this is your father?"
"Yes, ma'am."
She extended a hand and smiled warmly. "A pleasure, Mr. Lancer. Scott's told us about you as
well. Please, sit down. I just made an apple pie and there's coffee."
"Oh, we can't stay. Scott doesn't know we're
here. He's with his grandfather now," Johnny said.
"And you think he'd be upset? Nonsense!"
"We really do have to go, Mrs. Roberts. We're
meeting someone for dinner and my nephews are waiting," Murdoch said
apologetically. He truly was remorseful. He would liked
to have talked to these people about his son.
"Well, another time then," she said.
"I'm afraid not. We're leaving tomorrow for
home," Murdoch said.
She started to say more when she heard the
unmistakable bellow of her employer. "Oh, dear."
Murdoch almost laughed out loud until he looked at
Johnny.
"I hope he ain't mad about this," he
mumbled.
"Who? Scott or Harlan?" Murdoch asked.
"Oh, I know the old man will be," he
grinned.
Scott came into the kitchen then, having been
informed of his family's presence.
*******
"Hey, brother."
"Hey, yourself.
What are you two doing here?"
Before they could answer, Scott was caught up in a
bear hug by Mrs. Roberts. He laughed and swung the woman around before letting
her go.
"It's my fault, Scott. I thought Johnny would
like to see where you grew up and then Roberts came out," Murdoch
shrugged.
"Why is it anyone's fault? There's no reason
why you shouldn't be here," he smiled.
"Murdoch," Harlan greeted crisply.
"Hello, Harlan," Murdoch returned in
kind.
"Have you come to visit me or the staff?"
"Actually...." Johnny started but was cut
off.
"We didn't want to intrude on your time with
Scott. I just wanted to show Johnny where he grew up," Murdoch
interrupted.
"Yeah, we should get going. Andrew and Ian are
waiting outside," Johnny said.
"Ah yes, the cousins," Harlan nodded.
"I didn't see them out there. I hope they
didn't run off on you," Scott grinned.
"I guess we'd better go round them up. We'll
see you later, son."
"It was real nice to meet you both,"
Johnny said, turning to the Roberts'.
"And you, sir," Roberts replied formally.
Johnny knew he was reacting to Harlan being present
so he smiled politely and winked at the man.
*******
Once outside, Johnny took a deep breath.
"Well, could have been worse. He could have thrown us out."
Murdoch chuckled. "I suppose so. Are you
alright? I couldn't tell what was going through your mind in there."
"Sure, I'm fine. It was just
.... well, I guess I never really knew how
Scott grew up. I mean, he's told me stuff but I couldn't see it, ya know?"
"I know exactly what you mean, son. It's
impressive. I was a little intimidated the first time I was here."
Johnny cocked a brow at this. "You?
I can't imagine that either," he laughed.
Johnny turned as he heard someone approaching.
"Where have you two been?"
"We hid out when we saw Scott comin. That was his grandfather?" Ian said.
"He looks mean," Andrew added.
"He is mean. Come on. I've had enough of
They headed back toward the hotel, stopping at Faneuil Hall once more. Johnny wanted to find something
else for Teresa and Jelly and they spent some time shopping.
Finally, they headed back to get ready for their
dinner guest.
This time, they had no trouble getting a table and
Johnny was relieved. He didn't want his cousins subjected to that hostility so
soon. He figured they'd get a taste of prejudice soon enough.
He stood up when he saw the professor enter the
dining room and waved him over.
"Buenos noches."
"Buenos noches,
Professor. Por favor, tenga un asiento," Johnny
smiled.
Andrew and Ian looked at him, perplexed.
"The professor spent some time in
"Yes, I seldom get a chance to practice my
Spanish."
"I wish I spoke another language," Andrew
said.
"I can teach you. You'll probably both want to
learn a little anyway. There are a lot of Mexicans in
"Have you taught your brother, Johnny?"
"Well, a little. Scott knows Latin so he picks
up things pretty fast. But, I've been hedging on him. Don't want him gettin the upper hand on me," Johnny grinned.
The evening passed pleasantly and they parted ways.
Professor Ludlow encouraged Andrew to attend Harvard when he was ready to
resume his studies. He promised Johnny he would write to him and Johnny
begrudgingly promised to write back. He hated writing letters. Always figured
it was too impersonal.
********
Exhausted by the events of the day, the four men
took leave of each other and retired early. Johnny lay in bed, thinking about
Harlan's house and his brother's room. It bothered him. If he were honest with
himself, he'd admit he was a little jealous. Still, he didn't think Scott's
childhood was all that great.
From what his brother had shared with him, he got
the impression the old man didn't spend much time with Scott. Knowing their
bedrooms were a mile apart only strengthened that impression. His brother had
always spoken of the Roberts' with a great fondness. Johnny figured they raised
him more than Garrett had. He sighed heavily. So much for
wealth. Sure doesn't guarantee happiness or love.
He heard the door open and watched in amusement as
his brother crept about clandestinely. He waited a few minutes before speaking.
"Have fun?"
Scott whirled around. "Johnny, you took ten
years off me!"
"You've got a few to spare," he laughed.
"Funny, brother," he shot as he lit the
lamp.
"Hope the old man wasn't too mad," Johnny
fished.
"He wasn't upset at all. We had a nice
time," Scott smiled.
"I'm glad."
"So, what did you think of the house?"
Johnny smiled. "It's big."
"That's it? It's big?"
"Well, you had a real nice view from your
bedroom window," he shrugged.
"The park.
Yes, that's where all the girls would gather in the summer. A very nice
view," Scott winked.
Johnny laughed. "Figures."
"I am tired, though. I'm surprised you're
still awake," Scott sighed.
"Me too.
Guess I'm a little wound up. Had a real nice dinner with
Professor Ludlow."
Scott stopped what he was doing and turned,
wide-eyed. "Professor Ludlow?"
"Yeah, we showed Andrew and Ian around Harvard
and stopped in to say hello. I invited him to dinner. He said he was gonna
write to me. We're best friends now," Johnny smiled.
"Great," Scott deadpanned.
"Goodnight, brother."
"Nite, Scott."
Westward
On
They stood at the train station, waiting. Johnny
was starting to feel antsy and he paced the platform. Scott and Murdoch
watched, both smiling at the familiar mannerisms.
"He's homesick."
"So am I, son."
"Me, too," Scott laughed. He heard his
name and turned to see Harlan walking toward them.
"Grandfather, this is a surprise."
"You aren't the only one who can surprise
someone, Scotty. I just came to see you off. I miss you, son."
Scott dropped his head and smiled. Looking back
into his grandfather's face, he whispered, "I miss you, too, sir."
"I miss you, too, Harlan. Why don't you come
visit us more often?" Johnny smiled.
Harlan shot him an exasperated look and sighed.
Scott smiled as well, he couldn't help himself.
"This is what you have to deal with. Well,
you've made your bed, my boy," Harlan said sternly.
"I'm fine, sir. Really," Scott said.
"Actually, Teresa makes his bed," Johnny
said and felt someone yank his arm. He was pulled away from them by Murdoch.
"He's only teasing with you, grandfather. He
knows it irks you," Scott explained.
"Yes, well. Write to me soon," Harlan
said.
The conductor shouted 'all aboard' and Harlan
tensed. "If you ever change your mind...."
"I know, sir. Goodbye," Scott said
softly.
"Goodbye, son.
Please, take care of yourself."
"I will," Scott said and turned to board.
He felt a lump in his throat and swallowed hard.
Johnny walked up to Garrett. "He is where he
wants to be," he said seriously.
"If you ever let any harm come to
him...."
"I'll shoot myself. Save you the
trouble," he smiled, then changed his expression.
Looking over his shoulder to assure himself no one was in ear shot, he said
softly, "I'd die before I let anyone hurt him."
Harlan looked into his eyes and nodded. "Yes,
I see that."
*********
"You want to tell me what you said to my
grandfather?" Scott asked once they were underway.
"Nope.
It's a secret between us," Johnny grinned. His face fell at the look he
got. "I just promised him I'd watch out for you."
Scott nodded, wondering if that was all of it.
"What else?"
"Nothing else, brother.
He worries," Johnny shrugged.
Scott studied his brother's face and nodded in
satisfaction.
"Well, boys, just a few more days and we'll be
home free," Johnny laughed.
"Are you two doing alright? You haven't really
talked much," Murdoch inquired.
"Sure, we're fine. Just ....
no one seems to be able to understand us," Andrew
said.
Murdoch chuckled. "I know but that will
change. You'll lose those accents in no time."
"I hope so. You two give me a headache,"
Johnny teased.
They both laughed at him. "Ya think it's any
easier for us to understand you?" Ian asked.
"I've never heard so many different ways of
talking. There's more accents in
"Well, it is a country made up of people from
all over. Wait until you hear Jelly," Scott laughed.
They settled in and relaxed as much as one can on a
train. Ian and Andrew watched the countryside change in fascination. The city
gave way to farmland and prairie. Soon, they could see the mountains growing
nearer.
"Those are the
"They're beautiful," Andrew said.
"Some of the highest elevations in the
country. It's also part of the continental divide. Where
the country is equally halved east to west," Scott explained.
********
They pulled into
When he disembarked, he was wearing his calzoneros, bolero jacket and his gunbelt.
He felt human again, finally.
Andrew and Ian stared at him, mouths agape.
"You just couldn't wait, could you?"
Murdoch asked.
"I kept my promise, Murdoch. Now, it's time to
get comfortable," he grinned.
"That's a gun," Ian stated the obvious.
"In the west, most men wear guns. It's pretty
wild country. There isn't much law," Murdoch explained.
"Are those bullets?" Andrew asked.
"Yeah," Johnny looked at him strangely.
"What kind of pants are those?" he went
on.
"Well, that's the Mexican style. They're
called calzoneros."
"They're so ..... low,"
Ian said, for lack of a better term.
Johnny laughed at this. "It's what I'm
comfortable in."
"Will we be wearin
guns?" Andrew asked.
Johnny raised a brow and looked at his father.
"Maybe not.
At least until you're more familiar with things,"
the rancher said.
"Don't worry, boys. Johnny will teach you how
to use a pistol," Scott smiled.
"I will?"
"Who better?" Scott asked.
"It's time to board, gentlemen," Murdoch
interrupted.
"How much further is it, Uncle?"
"Three more days on the train.
We'll get off at Cross Creek. Jelly will pick us up there."
"You sent the wire, didn't you?" Scott
asked Johnny.
"Me? I thought you were sending it."
"I specifically remember Murdoch telling you
to send the wire, Johnny. Are you telling me you didn't?"
Johnny grinned at him and Scott punched him in the
arm. "Hey!"
"Do they always go on like that?" Ian
asked.
"I'm afraid so," Murdoch sighed.
*********
Jelly watched the train pull into Cross Creek
station and waited impatiently as passengers disembarked. Finally, he spied
Murdoch's tall form over the crowd and smiled.
He jumped off the wagon and hurried to meet them.
"Finally decided ta come home."
"Jelly!"
Johnny grabbed the old man and danced him around, then
Scott took a turn. By the time they were finished, Jelly was more than
flustered.
"Well, why don't ya just give me a big
ole kiss while yer at it!"
"Okay," Johnny said and moved toward him.
Jelly pushed him away and smacked his arm.
"Good to see you, Jelly," Murdoch said,
shaking hands with the man.
"Well, that's more like it! We sure missed ya,
Boss."
"What about us, Jelly?" Scott asked.
"I could do with missin
the two of you a good while longer!"
"Jelly, these are my nephews, Andrew and
Ian," Murdoch interrupted.
"Well, good ta have ya. Welcome. I got the
wagon ready, just have ta get your bags."
Andrew and Ian stared at him, unsure what to make
of the grizzled old man.
They walked toward the wagon and Johnny stopped
mid-stride. A grin spread across his face as wide as a canyon.
"Jelly, I think I will give you that
kiss," he said. "Barranca!"
Johnny walked up to the horse who immediately
wrapped his head around his master's neck. "Hey, fella. Jelly's been treatin
you real good. I can see that. You are a sight for sore eyes. I missed ya,
boy."
Barranca nickered and stomped his forefoot. Johnny
laughed at his antics.
"Well, didn't figure there was enough room fer everbody in the wagon,"
Jelly explained.
Scott was smiling, too. "So you decided Johnny
and I could ride our horses back. Thanks, Jelly."
He stroked Remmie's neck and the horse butted his shoulder.
Johnny looked over Barranca's neck and smiled.
"Uh, did you miss your horse there, brother?"
*********
As they made their way down the road, Johnny could
stand it no longer. He looked over at his brother and saw the same look.
"Murdoch, we'll catch up with you," he
said.
"Catch up? What ...." that's all he got
to say as the brothers took off across a meadow at full gallop.
He smiled and shook his head. "Those
two and horses."
"I thought Johnny was the one good with
horses," Andrew said.
"Oh, he is, but Scott was in the cavalry. He
has a great appreciation for them as well. He's a fine horseman."
"That's a fancy way of puttin
it. Them two are plumb crazy over them animals.
Scott's just a little quieter about it is all."
Murdoch had to agree with that. Scott wasn't the
type to show his emotions openly. Especially about an animal.
They continued on their way and the cousins took in
the countryside.
"How long before we get to the ranch?"
Andrew asked.
"We've been on the ranch for a while now.
We'll be at the house in about an hour," Murdoch replied.
Ian and Andrew looked at each other in
astonishment. "Just how big is this ranch?"
"Oh, one hundred thousand acres," Murdoch
replied casually.
"How many cattle do ya have?" Ian asked.
Murdoch turned in his seat and looked at them both.
"First lesson. Asking a man how many cattle he
has is like asking how much money he has in the bank," he winked.
Ian's face reddened a bit but his uncle's smile
relaxed him.
Murdoch was watching Scott and Johnny in a meadow
just ahead of them. They had come to a stop and were waiting for their family.
"Feel good?" Murdoch asked.
"Like heaven," Johnny grinned widely.
"If you two want to go ahead, don't let us
stop you. It'll let Teresa know our guests are arriving."
Scott smiled. "Thank you, sir." Winking
at his brother, he spurred Remmie into a fast canter.
Johnny shook his head. "I'm glad he doesn't
get crazy over horses."
********
They restrained themselves, somehow. Having given
their steeds such a run earlier, neither wanted to push the animals. Still, the
desire to break into a gallop as they sighted the gate was almost too much.
Scott and Johnny rode into the yard yelling
Teresa's name. She ran out of the house and flung herself into their arms.
"I've missed you both so much!" She
laughed and cried at once, then hugged them both once again.
"We missed you, too, honey," Scott
grinned.
"We sure did," Johnny seconded.
"Where's Murdoch?" she asked, looking
down the road.
"He's coming with Jelly. And we brought a
couple of Lancers with us," Johnny smiled.
"Our cousins, Ian and Andrew," Scott
explained.
"I know. I'm all ready for them," she
said.
"Good. We want to hear everything that you've
been up to," Scott said, taking her arm.
"That's right. And don't leave anything
out," Johnny said as he took the other arm.
They guided her into the house and sat her down,
each man taking a side and giving her their undivided attention.
Teresa looked suspiciously at them both.
"Alright, what is going on here? Why are you two all the sudden so
interested in my life?"
"Teresa! I can't believe you said that. We've
always been interested in your life," Scott exclaimed.
"I'm not buying this," she said with a
sing-song tone.
"Okay, here's the deal. We really appreciated
you talking us into going with Murdoch. We had a great time and we decided we
take you for granted too much. So, from now on, we are going to be devoted
brothers," Johnny explained.
"Well, I'm very glad you enjoyed yourselves
and I want to hear all about it. But, right now, we have guests on the way and
I don't have time to chat. Now, if you'll excuse me," she got up
determinedly and started for the stairs. Stopping, she turned back to them.
"You don't take me for granted. And if you ever do, I'll let you
know," she said with a raised brow and a slight smile.
Strangers
in a Strange Land
"Well, I guess she told us," Scott
sighed.
"Don't know what made us think she
wouldn't," Johnny laughed.
They heard the wagon approaching and stepped
outside. Murdoch and Jelly jumped down but Ian and Andrew just sat where they
were.
Both were gaping openly at the estancia.
"You boys gonna sit there all night?"
Johnny grinned.
"It's so big," Ian said.
"Well, we told you we had plenty of
room," Scott shrugged. "Come on, let's get the baggage inside."
As they took in the great room, Teresa came
downstairs.
"Murdoch!" she ran and hugged him
fiercely.
"Oh, how I've missed that smile, Miss
Teresa," he grinned. "I want you to meet my nephews. This is Ian and
Andrew Lancer. Boys, this is my ward, Teresa O'Brien."
Andrew managed to shake hands and say hello, though
it was difficult with his mouth hanging open. She noticed the other young man
seemed frozen in place and she approached him with hand extended.
"It's very nice to meet you, Ian."
"Yes, miss," he managed to whisper.
Murdoch cleared his throat. "Why don't we get
the boys settled in first. We can catch up over
supper."
"Sure, come on, we'll show you where you'll
sleep," Johnny said, taking Andrew's arm and leading him on.
When they got upstairs, Johnny showed Andrew his
room. "You can unpack later. I guess you're pretty worn out."
"Aye, I am. It's been a long journey,"
Andrew smiled.
Johnny nodded. "Just one
thing, Andrew. Teresa is just like a sister to me and Scott. So, I guess
that would make her like a cousin to you." He paused to make sure the
young man was listening. "That don't mean she's a kissin
cousin," he continued in a warning tone.
Andrew's brows knitted together for a second, then
his face went slack as he realized what Johnny was saying.
"As long as you remember that, we'll get along
fine," Johnny added.
Andrew nodded. "I'm glad you told me now,
cousin. She's beautiful."
"She is, but hands off," Johnny warned.
Andrew threw his hands up. "I
understand."
A smile grew across Johnny's face. "Good, I'll
see ya at supper." With that, he left the young Scot alone.
He met up with his brother in the hall. "Did
you warn him off Teresa?" Scott asked immediately.
"Yep."
******
All three Lancers decided a nap would do them a
world of good so the hacienda remained quiet a few hours longer.
When they gathered for supper, the table was set
with the best of everything from china to silverware to candles and the Irish
lace tablecloth.
"This isn't the usual, boys. Just Teresa's way
of welcoming us home," Murdoch quickly explained. He didn't want Ian and
Andrew to expect this every night.
In fact, Murdoch was more than ready to go back to
a normal life. As much as he loved the visit, he was worn out from it. Jelly
had brought him up to date on ranch business during the ride home. He was
pleased all had gone smoothly in their absence. He also knew they'd arrived
back just in time for the busy season to start.
Teresa had baked a turkey for the homecoming. She
brought it out and set it in front of Murdoch with flourish.
"Bubbly-jock!"
Ian proclaimed.
Heads turned toward him in confusion. "What
was that?" Scott asked.
"It's
bubbly-jock," Andrew restated as if it would explain all.
Murdoch chuckled a bit. "
"Why?" Johnny asked.
Murdoch opened his mouth, then
closed it. "You know, I have no idea."
"Well, whatever you call it, I hope you enjoy
it," Teresa smiled.
The majority of the supper conversation focused on
ranch business and all that needed to be done in the coming weeks. Once the
meal was finished, Murdoch steered the younger men into the living room.
"Ian, do you drink?"
"Not much. A little brandy now and then,"
he replied quietly.
Murdoch smiled and served brandy to him, Scott and
for himself. Johnny preferred tequila and Andrew decided he'd like to try it as
well.
The tall blond took a sip of the fiery liquid and
nearly choked as he gasped for air.
"Easy there, Andrew," Johnny laughed and
patted his back.
"Oh, that's harsh," he finally whispered.
"Should have warned you," Johnny grinned.
*********
Teresa came in from the kitchen and Andrew
immediately stood. She looked oddly at him and smiled. Johnny reached up and
pulled his arm to settle him on the sofa with a glare.
"Oh, we have some things for you,
Teresa," Scott said, remembering the gifts. "I'll be right
back."
He returned quickly with the bolt of cloth and laid
it on the coffee table in front of her. Teresa smiled politely. "It's very
nice, Scott."
"It's the Lancer clan tartan," Scott
explained.
"Oh!" she exhaled as the meaning came
clear. "Well, I'm sure I can make something out of it."
Murdoch tried to hold back the laughter as he
grinned at her. "Actually, you don't have to do anything. It's ready to
wear as a kilt," he explained.
He walked over and rolled the cloth out. Wide and narrow lines of light blue, green and darker blue dyes criss-crossed in a plaid pattern in the wool.
Murdoch wrapped it around his waist several times, then
pulled the end to knee-length. He tucked the remaining large amount of cloth
into the waist snugly. When he was finished, the kilt was on. "This is
more cloth than I need, but that's basically the idea."
"That's it?" Johnny asked.
"That's all there is to it. But, I'm sure it
would still make some nice curtains," Murdoch said as he began to unravel
himself.
"I don't know, Murdoch. I don't think we're
getting the full effect. Maybe if you were to wear the kilt only," Scott
said, his finger tapping the side of his mouth, a serious expression of thought
on his face.
"I think it would look much better on you,
son," Murdoch retorted.
"I have to agree. I think it would look much
better on Scott," Johnny grinned.
"Whose side are you on?" Scott asked,
stunned his brother was siding against him.
"Sides?
I'm just giving my opinion, brother. What's wrong with you modeling it?"
"What's wrong with you wearing it?" Scott
shot back.
Johnny shook his head. "Sorry,
"And I don't?"
"No," Johnny shrugged.
"Alright.
No one needs to model it," Murdoch intervened.
********
"That's right. In fact, I think it would make
lovely curtains," Teresa said as she took the cloth back. "Thank you,
Scott. It was very sweet," she added, bending down to peck his cheek.
"Well, I got you something, too. I'll go get
it," Johnny said and headed upstairs. He came back with two packages and a
slip of paper.
"This one is a recipe from Andrew's mother.
It's called
"And you didn't?" she asked.
"Oh yeah, I did. The others are ... well, open
them," he said.
She sat down and opened the first one. Johnny
explained that one was from
"Oh, Johnny!
It's beautiful. Thank you," she said in whispers.
He smiled proudly, seeing she did indeed like it.
She slipped it over her head quickly then opened the second package.
"That's from
There were two items in this package. The first one
was a small figurine of what looked like a ..... huge lizard. She looked quizzically at him.
"That's the Loch Ness monster," Scott
explained and went on to tell her a shortened version of the myth.
She laughed at the outrageous story but thanked
them both. Then she pulled out the second item. A silver
Celtic brooch. Her hand went to her bosom as she looked at the intricate
piece.
"It's so beautiful," she said as tears
began to well.
"It's a Celtic pin, darling," Murdoch
said.
"Thank you, thank you so much," she
cried.
"Geez, you don't
have to get all emotional," Johnny said, feeling uncomfortable with her
tears.
"I'm allowed," she argued. She stood and
hugged all three men, Murdoch being last.
He whispered in her ear. "I have something for
you, too. Later."
She nodded and kissed his cheek then bade them all
goodnight.
*****
"Well, I suppose we should talk about
tomorrow," Murdoch said as he settled in a chair.
"Ian, do you ride?" Scott asked.
"I have, though not in a while," he
answered.
"Well, I think you should go with Johnny. He
can break you in on a tame pony. Andrew, you work with Scott."
"What exactly do you want us to do with them,
sir?"
Murdoch almost smiled but refrained. "You need
to check the herd in the south pasture. Check on the mothers and see which ones
look ready. Johnny, check the fences in the east pasture. We'll need to move
the herd next week."
"Sure thing.
Guess we should get some rest. Scott and I'll wake you both in the
morning."
"I haven't needed anyone to wake me in years,
Johnny," Andrew said with some annoyance.
Johnny smiled softly at him. "Okay, but if you
aren't at the breakfast table by six, I'll be up to get you."
"Six?" he asked a bit weakly.
"Yep and it'll be earlier in a few weeks. We
get up with the sun around here."
"Then I think I will go to bed," Ian
said.
The cousins said their goodnights and went
upstairs. Scott shook his head.
"I don't know if this is going to work."
"It will take time and diligence and patience,
son."
"Yeah, well, patience and diligence I got. Not
so sure about the time," Johnny groused.
"I know. We'll do what we can with them until
the drive," Murdoch sighed.
"You aren't thinking of taking them on the
drive?" Scott asked.
"That would depend on how well you two can
teach them," Murdoch raised a brow.
Well," Johnny stood. "Guess I'll sack in
too, then."
******
The next morning, Scott and Johnny exited their
bedrooms simultaneously. After greeting each other, they walked softly down the
hall and stood outside the rooms of their cousins.
Each leaning into a door, they listened for any
sign of activity. Johnny almost laughed aloud. The only thing he heard was
Andrew snoring.
Giving each other a wicked grin, they opened the
doors and stepped in for lesson number one.
Scott walked over and shook Ian's shoulder gently,
then a bit harder. The boy could evidently sleep through a cannon attack.
Johnny walked straight to the window, threw open
the curtains and the window sash and plopped down heavily at the foot of the
bed.
Andrew bolted upright, looking around disoriented.
"Mornin!
Time to get up," Johnny smiled.
Andrew groaned and fell back against the pillows,
pulling the blanket over his head.
Johnny stood and grabbed the covers, flinging them
back until they fell off the footboard. "I told you,
Scott gave up on the gentle approach and pulled the
covers off Ian. "Time to get up!" he called loudly.
Ian raised his head and glared at him.
"Oh, you're a grump, huh? You'll be even
grumpier if you miss breakfast. Come on, up and at 'em.
The day's a wastin," he said cheerfully. He
stood there, arms crossed over his chest and stared at the younger man.
"I'm comin,"
Ian finally growled.
"Good. Because if you don't, I'll send Johnny
after you," Scott smiled wickedly and left the room.
"I heard that," Johnny said.
"This is going to be a challenge,
brother," Scott sighed.
"I know. They won't be able to move
tomorrow," Johnny laughed.
*******
They made it halfway through their breakfast when
Johnny and Scott stood up.
"Come on, time to get to work," Johnny
said.
Looking at each other, they shrugged and rose.
They met the brothers at the door, each strapping
on his gun belt. Scott looked them over and sighed softly.
"No hats."
Johnny looked up and his shoulders dropped.
"Well, I have an old one. Do you?"
"Yes, I'll go get them," Scott said,
feeling a bit dejected. They didn't even have proper attire. He wondered again
at his father's idea. Thinking maybe they should hold off another day until the
cousins were at least outfitted appropriately.
Finally ready, they walked out to the barn. Johnny
could feel the eyes on them. Every vaquero on the ranch had to be wondering
what was up. Getting the horses saddled would prove to be the easy part of the
day.
Each man patiently showed the cousins how to apply
western saddles. Andrew watched intently but Ian was more interested in
stroking Barranca's nose. Johnny knew he wasn't paying attention so he showed
him the mare he would ride and dropped the tack at his feet.
"Out here, not paying attention can get you
killed. The smallest thing can cause a disaster. Like a loose
cinch or a halter put on wrong. Now, saddle this horse and I'll show you
how to do it," he said firmly.
Ian did so, or attempted to. Johnny's patience was
wearing thin but he bit his tongue and showed the boy how to do it again. Scott
and Andrew had long since left for the south pasture.
As they led the horses out of the barn, Murdoch
walked over to them. The look Johnny gave him stopped the rancher from asking
the question on his lips. Instead, he simply smiled a little and wished them a
good day.
*******
Out in the south pasture, Scott was having a devil
of a time. Evidently, Andrew had never seen a cow up close before. Scott was
quite sure the closest he'd ever gotten was the supper table.
But before he could teach him about cattle, he had
to show him how to handle a cowpony. By the time afternoon was upon them, Scott
Lancer was ready to hit something.
Ordinarily a patient and understanding man, Scott
was at his wit's end. He knew with time, Andrew would catch on. He could see
the potential. The problem was, it was his first day back and he was still
feeling the saddle himself. After three months, it wasn't as easy as he thought
it would be.
Johnny was at least having a little better luck. He
didn't have to show Ian the cattle. Checking the fences wasn't a hard job. He
showed the boy how to tell what sections would have to be replaced, which ones
deemed watching and which ones were sturdy.
Ian was at least paying attention. Though the look of boredom on his face was comical.
By the end of the day, both brothers were
exhausted. Both mentally and physically. Scott decided
he needed to have a serious talk with Murdoch. One that Johnny would be present
for.
As Ian and Andrew went to clean up, Scott took the
opportunity.
"Sir, we need to talk."
"Something wrong, son?"
Scott sighed and sat on the sofa. "Yes. This
is our first day back to work in three months. It's difficult enough to get
caught up on everything that's been going on without having to babysit. I know you want Ian and Andrew to work but I think
it could wait a few days."
"I agree. They don't even have the right
clothes. I think you're jumpin the gun here,
Murdoch," Johnny said.
Murdoch inhaled deeply. "Maybe you're right. I
guess I just wanted them to be interested. Tomorrow, I'll take them to town and
get them some clothes and things they'll need."
Nodding in satisfaction, Scott smiled.
********
Upstairs, another conversation was being had. Ian
had come to his cousin's door hoping to feel him out.
"I like the wide open spaces," Andrew
smiled.
"But, what about the work?
I was bored to tears today."
The older boy laughed. "Maybe this isn't for
you, cousin."
"What do you think of Johnny and Scott? I
mean, really," Ian asked.
Andrew considered this for a moment. "Well,
they're both friendly. I think Johnny has a short fuse sometimes. Scott has
been very patient with me. I like them both. Why?"
"I don't know. I mean, I like them fine. I
suppose it's just that everything is so new. I'm feelin
a bit overwhelmed," the younger boy sighed.
"Aye.
It is a lot to take in. The people are an odd lot. They all kept staring at me
today," Andrew commented.
"Well, at least I didn't have that. Johnny and
I were alone all day. Still, I'm sure it will come."
"Teresa is a bonny lass,"
Andrew smiled.
Ian smiled a little, too. "Are ya havin designs already, cousin?"
"Oh no.
I was already warned about that. I'm to look at her as a cousin," Andrew
laughed.
"Is that a fact? Well, I suppose you'd better
behave yourself then," Ian said, a twinkle of mischief in his eyes.
Andrew's smile wavered as he considered his cousin.
"You're not going to like this ranchin are
ya?"
The boy sighed and shook his head. "It's not
for me. I want to be a teacher like da."
"So? Why did ya come then?"
Ian snorted. "It's not like I had a choice. Da thinks it will do me good. Make me come to my
senses."
Andrew frowned at that. He'd knew the rumors, had
wondered if they were true. Still, it wasn't his business. If Ian didn't want
to tell him, he wasn't going to ask.
"We best get down for supper. I'm
starving!" he said instead.
*
Murdoch felt the steam coming from his ears as he
drove the wagon back to the ranch. He couldn't believe people could be so
crude. Of course, it would have to be those two idiots from the Circle J. He
couldn't even look and Ian and Andrew. He knew they were upset and he couldn't
blame them.
Thinking back on the day, his anger boiled. He had
sent the boys on to the general store while he dropped off the list of supplies
for the ranch and made a quick stop at the bank. When he met up with them
again, he'd gotten an earful.
"What'ya call that kind a talk?"
"Sounds like a bunch of squawkin
ta me."
Andrew was doing his best to remain calm but the
flush in his cheeks betrayed him. "We are from
"
"Well, what're ya doin
here?" Steve Pascall asked as he crowded the two
young men together against a table.
"We don't want any trouble," Ian said.
"Oh, ya don't want no
trouble. Well, maybe ya best go back ta where ya came from, then."
"Hey, Dave.
Get a load of them clothes. I hear tell they wear dresses over in
"That right? You boys must feel awful
uncomfortable in them britches. Maybe we oughta help
ya out," Dave grinned.
Steve laughed raucously at this idea and stepped
closer to the group.
"What's the meaning of this?" Murdoch's
voice boomed like thunder.
Pascall and Harmon
whirled around as the rancher neared. "Just havin a little fun, Mr. Lancer. Somethin wrong with that?"
"Harmon, there is always something wrong with
your kind of fun. Now, if you will kindly step away from my nephews. I believe
they came in here to make some purchases, not to be belittled." Murdoch
glared at the two younger men until they backed toward the door.
********
As they drove under the gate, Andrew spoke,
breaking Murdoch's reverie.
"I think we should go home, Uncle."
"No, Andrew. Don't let a couple of idiots ruin
this experience for you. There are people in this world who have nothing better
to do than belittle others. It's only a sign of their own
ignorance."
They walked into the house with glum faces.
"Well, you three are a sorry sight. What's
wrong?" Johnny asked.
"We had some trouble in town," Murdoch
mumbled.
"What kind of trouble?" Scott asked.
"It seems our brogues were the source of
amusement for some," Ian said sarcastically.
"Is that right? Who?"
Johnny asked, his eyes narrowing.
"It's over, Johnny," Murdoch said.
"Who?" he asked again, tightly.
"Dave Harmon and Steve Pascall,"
Murdoch answered tiredly.
Johnny nodded his head, his mind working overtime.
Scott saw the look and was working on a few things
himself.
"It's done with. Let's just forget about it.
The boys got some nice work clothes. Why don't you show Scott
and Johnny your new hats?" Murdoch said, trying to end the tension.
*******
Over the next few days, Andrew began to progress in
his skills. Scott was quite pleased. He seemed to actually enjoy the hard work.
At lunch, he decided to sound his cousin out.
"I have to admit, I've never been so tired in
my life. But it's a good feeling. Like I'm accomplishing somethin,"
he said.
Scott smiled and nodded. "I know exactly what
you mean. When I first started there were times I thought I'd never get the
hang of things. But when I go to bed at night, I know I've made a
difference."
"It's so open out here. So beautiful,"
Andrew commented.
Scott could see Lancer had had the same effect on
his cousin as it had on his brother and himself. He could see Andrew staying on
here. He was about to mention that when they heard riders approaching.
Standing, Scott put his hand over his eyes to block
the sun. He spotted the golden palomino easily. "It's Johnny and
Ian."
"I hope nothin's
wrong," Andrew frowned.
Scott laughed softly. "See? You're already
thinking like a rancher."
Johnny rode up and dismounted easily. Ian was still
a ways off, trying to make the mare do his bidding. Johnny turned to watch him,
an exasperated expression on his face. He shook his head sadly.
"Problem, brother?"
He turned to see Scott smirking and he leered at
him. "Don't start. Murdoch wants him to work with the cattle."
Scott's smile disappeared.
"Don't worry, he still wants him hangin on my shirttails," Johnny groused. Taking a
deep breath, he turned to Andrew. "How's it going?"
"Very well.
I like it."
"Well, glad one of ya does," he muttered.
Turning back, he called to Ian. "You better make friends with that horse,
boy."
Ian finally got the horse to stop and he
dismounted, nearly falling over his own feet.
Johnny grabbed Scott's arm and walked him out of
earshot.
********
"He ain't gonna make it."
"Have you tried talking to him, Johnny?"
"Talkin to him?
Yeah, I tried talkin to him. He says two words all
day. Just hangs his head and nods."
"I mean about what he wants. How he feels
about ranching," Scott said.
"I know how he feels about it. He hates it.
But he won't say that cause he thinks Murdoch will be
mad. I'll tell ya, brother, I don't know what to do with him."
"Johnny, do you think it's his ......
problem?" Scott said delicately.
Johnny frowned then understanding flooded his face.
"I forgot all about that." He then looked at his brother in
astonishment. Hands on hips, he stared at Scott. "I suppose you think I
should talk to him about that, too?"
"Well, you said you knew someone like
that," Scott shrugged.
"Yeah?
I met him, I didn't know him. And I sure as hell don't know nothin about THAT!" Johnny stated, lowering his
voice to a hiss.
"Neither do I!"
"You're the one that went to college,"
Johnny countered.
"What's that got to do with it?"
"You know fancier words to use, Scott. Not
make him feel bad," Johnny explained.
"Oh no. Uh uh. That is not going to work,
Johnny. You can't make me."
"Excuse me but shouldn't we be gettin back to work?" Andrew interrupted.
Scott smiled at the out. "Yes,
absolutely. We'll see you both later," he said and quickly walked
to his horse.
Johnny was on his heels. "We aren't done yet,
brother."
"Yes, we are. He's yours to deal with, Johnny.
I have my hands full."
"Scott.
Scott. Hey!" Johnny was yelling at a quickly disappearing back. He
sighed and looked over at Ian.
******
The younger man smiled shyly. "What are we to
do now?"
Johnny walked over and forced a smile. "You
and me are gonna have a serious talk, Ian. Sit."
Ian suddenly became nervous. He sat on the log
Johnny indicated and picked at the grass by his feet. Playing with it in his
hands, he shredded it to bits.
Johnny watched this for a moment before he sat on
the ground in front of the boy. He reached over and picked a blade of grass
himself, sticking it in his mouth.
"You don't like ranch work, do you?"
Ian glanced up then bowed his head again.
"No."
"It's okay. It's not the life for
everyone."
"Seems Andrew's taken with it."
"You ain't Andrew."
Ian snorted. "No, I'm sure not."
Johnny looked sidelong at him. He considered his
words carefully. "Maybe you should work on figuring out who you are."
Ian looked up, a bit surprised. "Don't you
mean what I am?"
"I say what I mean," Johnny stated.
"Yes, you do. How am I suppose
to do that, Johnny? Can you tell me?" It was almost a plea.
"No, Ian, I can't. You have to figure out your
feelings and accept them. Whatever they are. I mean,
what do you feel?"
*******
The boy's face turned red at that question.
"Anything you say to me will go no
farther," Johnny promised.
"I watch my friends back home go crazy over
this girl or that. Listen as they talk about their exploits. I don't feel those
things."
"What do you feel?"
"Uncomfortable, mostly.
Afraid."
Johnny shook his head. This was not what he meant.
He figured he'd have to get a little more explicit. "What I mean is, do
you ever get those feelings about girls or do you get them about ....?"
Johnny shrugged awkwardly.
Ian stood and paced away, his back to Johnny. He
felt a surge of panic and the need to run.
Johnny got up and walked over behind him, leaving
some space so as not to crowd the boy. "Look, I'm not trying to embarrass
you. But you have to face this."
"Why?"
"Because you are the sorriest excuse I ever
did see. Ian, you're miserable. Every day, you're miserable. Why would you want
to live like that?"
He turned then to face Johnny. "Because facin the truth would be just as miserable."
"I doubt that. Seems to me you already know
the truth," Johnny cocked a brow.
Ian nodded his head sadly. "Aye, I know. But
what am I supposed to do with it? How do I live my life?"
"I guess by finding people who feel the same
as you," he shrugged.
"Where?"
Johnny pondered that question. How should he know?
He smiled at the boy and clapped him on the shoulder. "I don't know but
we'll find out."
"Johnny? Thank you for not
..... well, thank you," Ian mumbled.
*******
That evening, Johnny couldn't stop thinking about
Ian's situation. He thought to talk to his brother but he hadn't been any help
earlier. He decided he would try Murdoch instead. After all, surely he had run
into this kind of thing at some point in his life.
As they sat in the living room, Johnny walked
casually over to his father's chair. Tapping Murdoch's shoulder, he jerked his
head toward the French doors.
Once outside, he wasn't sure how to proceed.
"What's on your mind, son?"
"Ian."
Murdoch raised a brow. "How is he doing?"
"Lousy, but that's not what I wanted to talk
to you about. What Uncle Duncan said about him in
Murdoch sighed loudly and walked over to the low
wall. He stared out over the land in the twilight silently.
Johnny waited a long moment then sighed.
"Well?"
"Well what?"
"He needs to be around people like him. People
who understand how he feels."
"Johnny, I don't know what you want me to
do."
"I want you to help your nephew,
Murdoch!"
He turned to face his son, puzzlement written
clearly on his face. "How?"
Johnny calmed himself and lowered his voice.
"Don't you know of any place where ..... you
know, people like that ..... live together?"
Murdoch's eyes grew wide. "How the devil would
I know that?!"
"Come on, Murdoch. You've been around. Surely
you've heard things," Johnny said conspiratorially.
Murdoch's face was stone as he stared at his son.
Johnny just stared back, expectantly.
"There have been some rumors in
"See? I knew you'd know," Johnny grinned.
"So what?
You think we should just send him packing?"
"No. But we have to do something, Murdoch.
Look, he hates ranching and he's lousy at it. I think we need to take him to
"Now wait a minute, young man. We are not
going all the way to
********
"Keep your voice down!" Johnny fairly
hissed. "This is not about a date and you know it. I'm surprised at you,
Murdoch. You're usually more fair-minded than this."
Murdoch growled a little and turned back to face
the view which was rapidly disappearing in the night sky.
"We're going to
"Johnny...."
"Murdoch."
"Alright, fine! We'll take him on the drive.
But he's going to have to work just like everyone else."
Johnny chewed his lip at this. "Do you have a
cook yet?"
"No, why?"
"Ian could do the cooking. Teresa could teach
him how. There's no way he can work a cattle drive, Murdoch. Not in a million
years."
The man threw his hands up with this. "Do
whatever you want," he said tersely and went back inside.
'Wish it was always that easy', Johnny thought
sardonically.
"What was that all about?"
He turned to find Scott behind him. "Oh, nothing."
"Murdoch looks like a mother bear," he
grinned.
Johnny laughed softly. "Probably feels like a
rattler about now. It was about Ian. He's going on the drive with us and I
figured he could do the cooking."
"Good idea. He certainly isn't cut out for
ranching," Scott agreed.
Johnny grew quiet then and Scott watched him
closely.
"I feel like a fish out of water. I don't know
if this is the right thing to do," Johnny spoke softly.
"I'm sure he can handle the cooking,
Johnny."
"I want to take him to
********
"I see," Scott said tightly.
Johnny turned at the tone. "You don't
agree?"
"I don't know, Johnny. It seems as if we
should try to ...."
"To what?"
"Help him see things differently."
"You mean change him," Johnny shook his
head slowly. "I don't think that's possible, Scott."
"Has he ever ..... had
relations?" Scott faltered.
Johnny's mouth dropped open. "How am I
supposed to know?"
"Well, you talked to him," Scott
shrugged.
"And you think he spilled his guts? Look, all
I know is what Ian told me. I sure ain't gonna ask him about that!"
"Ask me about what?"
They both turned to see him standing at the doors.
"Nothing," Johnny said quickly.
"Well, I think I'll go back inside now,"
Scott said, moving too quickly for Johnny to grab him.
He found himself alone with Ian staring at him.
Johnny turned to look out at the night sky. He felt, rather than saw, the young
man walk up next to him.
"I'm sorry. I guess I shouldn't have talked
about you like that."
"It isn't like they didn't know," Ian
said.
Johnny turned and looked at him, a bit surprised.
"What was it you weren't going to ask
me?"
*****
Johnny suddenly felt very nervous. He pulled a leaf
off a potted plant hanging nearby and started shredding it.
"Scott .... he was
wondering if you've ever ..... *been* with anyone," he said softly, his
head down.
"No, I haven't," Ian replied as softly.
Johnny looked up at him. "Then, how can you be
sure?"
"I know how I feel."
"Ian, maybe ..... well,
if you've never been with a woman," Johnny shrugged.
The boy smiled. "I've never been with anyone
at all but I know one makes me feel different than the other."
Johnny couldn't argue with that logic. "I
talked to Murdoch. We're going to be driving the cattle to market next month. To
"I see."
"If you don't want to...."
"At this point I don't know what I want,"
he sighed heavily. Ian sat on the low wall and hung his head. "The only
thing I know for sure is I want to be a teacher, like my da."
Johnny smiled at this. "Then
"I suppose so. Da
would have a fit. He wants me to attend
"What do you want?"
"To be on my own for a while."
"Sounds reasonable.
I'll talk to Murdoch and Scott. They'd know about schools and the like. Oh, by
the way, you'll be the cook on the cattle drive. So I guess you best get Teresa
to teach you," he smiled.
*
For the next two weeks, Ian stayed in the kitchen
with Teresa. She was teaching him how to cook on the trail and he was doing
quite well. He enjoyed spending time with her as well. He even cooked a few
dinners so she could have a break.
The sound of their laughter filled the estancia
during the day. Murdoch was tickled at how well they got along. He sat at his
desk going over the trail map and making plans for the drive.
A gunshot from outside interrupted his thoughts. He
hurriedly walked to the French doors in time to see Scott and Johnny coming
toward him. Johnny's arm was slung over Scott's shoulder and he wasn't walking
very well. Andrew was coming in behind them looking quite pale.
"What happened?" he demanded as soon as
they neared him.
"It's nothing," Johnny protested.
"It's not nothing. Stop being so stubborn!" Scott reprimanded.
He walked Johnny to the sofa and sat him down, then
proceeded to removed his boot. By now, Ian and Teresa
had come in from the kitchen.
"He was shot," Scott clipped.
"By who?"
"It's my fault. I was looking at Johnny's
gun," Andrew said remorsefully.
"What is all this commotion?" Teresa
asked. When she saw the blood on Johnny's leg, she grimaced. "I'll get
something to put on it."
Murdoch turned and walked to the door. He saw Jelly
by the barn and called him over.
"Get Sam, Jelly," he ordered.
"It's not a big deal, Murdoch. It's just a
scratch," Johnny complained.
"Well, then I guess Sam will get a good supper
out of it. But I want him to take a look, Johnny. I don't want you laid up with
an infection. Especially right now." Murdoch's
tone told the story. He would take no quarter.
******
"Who is Sam?" Ian asked.
"He's the doctor. Now, Andrew, exactly what
happened?" Murdoch asked.
Scott turned his attention to his brother, not
wanting to be part of this conversation.
"Johnny took his gunbelt
off when he was workin the horses. I was watching him
and I .... I just wanted a closer look. Before I knew
it, the gun went off," Andrew explained, his cheeks flushed.
"Scott, you didn't notice this?" Murdoch
turned.
Scott looked up at his father, a little surprised.
"I was watching Johnny."
Murdoch's face turned to granite. He nodded his
head and Scott braced himself. "You were watching Johnny. I suppose you've
never seen him break a horse before. It must have been enthralling. Enough to keep your attention away from your cousin."
"Now wait just a minute, Murdoch. Scott ain't
a babysitter. It was an accident," Johnny said.
"Johnny....."
"He's right, Uncle. I'm grown. I should have
known better," Andrew spoke up.
"We need to get Johnny in bed," Scott
interrupted.
"I don't need to go to bed. I told you, it's
nothing. Just a scratch," Johnny protested.
Murdoch walked over and knelt beside him to get a
closer look. Scott moved his hand that was holding a bandana to the wound on
his left calf. It started pouring blood.
"That's more than a scratch, young man. It's
going to need stitches. You may as well lay down so
Sam can get to it easier," Murdoch decided.
Johnny sighed but didn't argue the point. He
figured when Sam got done he'd be up and about. Scott helped him stand and
supported his brother on one side as Murdoch took the other.
"I'm sorry, Johnny," Andrew said.
Johnny smiled at him. "It was an accident.
They happen a lot around here."
*******
When Sam arrived, he decided it did need suturing. Sixteen in all. Once he finished wrapping the bandage,
Johnny asked the inevitable.
"You can walk on it but no heavy work for a
week. I don't want those stitches to tear. Change the bandage every day and
keep it clean. No riding."
"What?"
"You heard me, young man. No riding for a
week. I'm serious, Johnny. If you rip those stitches you know it will take
twice as long to heal. Now, would you rather be down for one week or two?' Sam
asked.
"One," Johnny muttered.
"What was that?" Sam asked, cocking his
head to the side.
"I said one!"
"Good!"
"Will he be well enough for the cattle drive,
Sam?" Murdoch asked.
"If he does as I say, he will be," Sam
answered.
Murdoch looked at his younger son who felt like
pulling the blanket over his head. "I said I would," he mumbled.
"You had better, son. I need you on this
drive."
It was a left-handed compliment, but Johnny took
it. He smiled brilliantly at his father who shook his head.
******
Sam went downstairs with Murdoch, having accepted
the invitation to supper. Andrew stood at the door of Johnny's room looking
like a lost pup.
"I really am sorry, Johnny."
"I know. It's okay. Murdoch's bark is worse
than his bite, usually," he grinned.
"It is?" Scott quipped.
Johnny made a face at him then smiled. "Well,
as long as I'm laid up, I might as well teach you how to use a gun. Just so you
don't shoot Murdoch next time."
Andrew saw the gleam in his eye and knew he was
joking but it didn't make him feel any better.
"Come on, Andrew. You're gonna have to lighten
up a little. Can't take everything so seriously," Johnny urged.
"Lighten up? I could have killed you,
Johnny!"
"Yeah, but you didn't."
"I think we had better get back to work. And
you," Scott said, pointing a finger at Johnny. "You do as Sam says.
You're going on that drive if I have to tie you to Barranca."
Johnny made a melodramatic event out of saluting
his brother. "Yes, sir!"
*******
Half an hour later, Johnny limped downstairs and
into the living room. "What?" he asked to the scowl he received.
"What are you doing up, John?" Murdoch
demanded.
Johnny looked to Sam. "He said I could."
"It's alright, Murdoch. As long as he doesn't
do anything strenuous," Sam conceded.
"Just ..... be
careful. That's all," Murdoch grumbled.
"Sheesh.
I'm goin to the kitchen. Maybe I won't get yelled at in there."
"I wasn't yelling," Murdoch retorted to
his son's back.
"How are you feeling, Johnny?" Ian asked.
"I'm fine. A little sore is all." He sat
down slowly, easing his leg straight out.
"Oh yes, he's just fine," Teresa said.
"How're the lessons going?" Johnny asked,
praying for a diversion.
Ian joined him at the table. "Very
well. I enjoy cooking."
"Well, I have to warn you. Cowboys get real
grumpy on the trail. But, if they give you any guff, you just wave a big spoon
at 'em. They'll know what it means," Johnny
winked.
"What does it mean?"
"It means, if they don't back off, they don't
eat."
Ian nodded his understanding and smiled.
"I need some onions. I'll be right back,"
Teresa said as she whisked out the back door.
******
"She's a fine lass,"
Ian commented.
Johnny glanced up at him and cocked his head.
"She is that. Beautiful, too."
"Aye.
Andrew was quite taken," he replied with a bit of a wicked gleam in his
eye.
"What about you?" Johnny asked.
His face fell as did his eyes. "Are ya pushin me, Johnny?"
A heavy sigh escaped the older man. "No, I'm
sorry. Guess I just want you to be absolutely sure."
Ian looked straight into his eyes. "I am. If I
wasn't before, I am now."
"What do you mean?"
The younger man chewed his lower lip, trying to
decide. Finally, he did. "Nothing, nothing at all."
Johnny let it drop. He was pretty sure he didn't
want to know. "Two more weeks and we'll start the drive."
Ian smiled with relief at the change in subject.
"How long will it take?"
"Oh, about three, maybe four
weeks."
"That long?" he asked in surprise.
"Yep.
Cattle ain't too smart. Sometimes, they can be downright ornery," Johnny
grinned.
"Ain't that the truth!"
Jelly agreed as he entered the room. "How's yer
leg, Johnny?"
"It's fine, Jelly.
I'll live. That is if I don't starve to death first."
"You will if you don't get out of my kitchen
and out from under my feet," Teresa scolded as she returned.
"Guess that's our cue, Jelly. Come on. I may
not be able to ride, but I can brush Barranca down."
*******
For the next ten days, Johnny helped Jelly around
the house and barn with repairs. He spent time talking with Ian as well. In the
afternoons he taught Andrew about guns. Murdoch was pleased he was kept busy. A
bored Johnny was a mischievous Johnny.
Ian was opening up more and more to him. Johnny
felt uncomfortable at times but he wouldn't show it. He knew the boy needed
someone to talk to. He had to admit to himself, he was gaining a lot of insight
into this particular area.
He could easily see why it was such a closely kept
secret. He knew if any of his friends ever found out about Ian, the boy would
be beaten to a pulp on general principle.
Saturday night, Scott and Johnny had plans to go to
town. It would be their last chance before the drive Monday morning. Andrew was
also invited. They all felt Ian was too young and he wasn't thrilled with the
idea anyway.
Sam had removed the stitches from Johnny's leg that
Friday and he'd been on Barranca practically before Sam could close his black
bag.
Saturday evening, the boys headed for
They rode up to the saloon and dismounted,
tethering their mounts to the hitching rail. Johnny stretched out his back
muscles.
"Are you alright?" Scott asked.
"Fine, just gettin
used to riding a long way again. Come on, my throat is screamin for a cold beer," he grinned.
*******
Andrew started through the batwings when he felt a
tug on his sleeve. He looked at Scott who was shaking his head.
"Johnny likes to go in first," he
explained.
Andrew only looked puzzled but shrugged.
Johnny stepped through the swinging doors and
scanned the interior quickly. Proceeding to a back table, he sat with his back
to the wall.
Scott and Andrew joined him and a saloon girl took
their order. Andrew watched her walk away.
Scott had to laugh. "It's been a while,
huh?"
"Aye, it has at that."
"Gonna be a while longer. I mean, if you fancy
her..." Johnny winked.
"Oh, I don't know," Andrew blushed a little.
"Leave him alone, Johnny."
"Hey, I'm just trying to be hospitable,"
he shrugged.
"Well, if it ain't the Lancer boys."
Johnny looked up to see Pete and Steve from the
circle J approaching. He sighed and looked at them in disgust.
Scott shook his head and sighed as well. Andrew
recognized the voices immediately and tensed.
"Pete, Steve," Johnny nodded.
"Old man let ya out," Pete laughed.
"Hey, ya got a new hand, huh?" Steve
commented.
"That's right. If you'll excuse us,"
Scott said tightly.
"Well, now, I do try Lancer but you're a
pretty sorry excuse," Pete guffawed.
*******
Johnny looked over at his brother and smiled. Scott
shook his head and glared at him. Johnny just shrugged.
"Well, ain't ya got nothin
ta say?"
"I have plenty to say. However, I don't make a
habit of speaking to neanderthals,"
Scott quipped.
Andrew chuckled at this slight. Pete and Steve just
looked at him with suspicion.
"What'd you call us?"
"Neanderthals.
Crude, boorish, dim-witted," Scott defined.
Steve shuffled his feet, a look of pure confusion
on his face. Pete puffed out his chest, then deflated
it as he slowly absorbed the insult.
Johnny watched them both then burst out laughing.
"
"Maybe you shouldn't have been so eloquent
about it, cousin," Andrew grinned.
"Hey! It's one of them Scottish boys,"
Pete recalled exuberantly.
"That's Scotsman," Andrew corrected.
Armed with new ammunition, the cowhands came back
to life. "Ya know I hear tell all them Scottish fellas
are sheep men," Pete said.
"I heard that, too. Smells like sheep,"
Steve sniffed the air.
Johnny stood up and eyed them both. His hand went
casually to his side as he spoke quietly. "My family and I have had enough
of you two. Now, go away."
Pete took one step toward him and Johnny's eyes
turned a smoky blue.
"You don't want to do that, Pete," he
said in a hard but soft voice.
Pete wavered, his stance not as bold now. His eyes
left Johnny's. "Come on, Steve. Ain't no sheep
man or half-breed worth it."
*******
Johnny sat back down and took a drink of his beer.
"What is a half-breed?" Andrew asked.
Scott turned his eyes to the table, suddenly
fascinated with the stains there. Johnny looked at his cousin and smiled.
"It means you're mixed. My mother was
Mexican," Johnny said.
Andrew thought on this for a moment, then nodded. "It's an awful word."
"It certainly is," Scott said strongly.
"Can we forget about those two yahoos. Come on, we're supposed to be relaxing," Johnny
said.
"Sure, but I don't think I like being called a
'sheep man' either. At least, not the way they say it."
Scott chuckled at this. "It's a dirty word
around cattlemen. Don't let them bother you. The Circle J hands have always had
a grudge against Lancer."
"Why?"
"Don't have a clue. Murdoch won't say either.
He just says to stay away from them," Johnny smirked.
"We figured it had something to do with the
owner of the ranch," Scott imparted.
"Ah, a mystery," Andrew smiled.
"
*********
Scott and Andrew's heads jerked around to find the
owner of the voice. Johnny sat still, slowly raising his head.
"I'm callin you out,
gunhawk!"
Johnny looked at the young man. All of twenty, the
Circle J scion was a pompous ass. Even his friends couldn't stand him most
days. Standing in the middle of the room, Tom Jackson swayed a bit as he glared
angrily.
"You're drunk, Tom," Johnny said.
"May be.
But, even drunk I can take you, half-breed!" he sneered.
"I doubt it," Johnny replied softly. He
still hadn't moved.
"You backin down,
"Nothin to
back down from, Tom. Go home and sleep it off."
"You all heard it! The great Johnny Madrid
backed off from me!" he declared loudly, pointing a finger at his own
chest.
Johnny smiled and shook his head slowly at the
fool.
"Should've expected you'd be a coward,
Johnny was on his feet and in front of
"Whatever is between my old man and yours,
let's keep it between them. It's got nothin to do
with us. You're drunk and your makin
a jackass of yourself. Go home, Tom, before it's too late."
*******
He stopped in mid-sentence as the cold steel of the
business end of Johnny's Colt pressed against the flesh under his chin.
"You still think you can outdraw me?"
Johnny hissed. "Go home!"
The look on Scott's face was all the warning he
needed. He turned and fired at the same time Scott called to him.
Tom Jackson stood at the door with a stunned
expression. His hand on the butt of his gun, barely out of
the holster. He looked at his right arm and saw the blood begin to run
down from his shoulder.
Time seemed to stand still for an eternity.
Suddenly, a loud thud was heard as
Three Circle J hands grabbed him and pushed him out
the door as the crowd remained silent.
Johnny reholstered his
gun and sighed heavily. The piano started playing again and the patrons went
about their business as he sat back down heavily.
"That was incredible, Johnny! It's a wonder
you didn't kill him," Andrew said in awe.
"Didn't aim to," Johnny mumbled. "I
think I'm gonna head back," he sighed.
"Don't leave, Johnny. It's over. Everyone saw
what happened. You had no choice," Scott said gently.
"Don't make it any better,
"We may as well go, too," Scott sighed.
"Aye.
Wouldn't want him out there alone," Andrew agreed.
*
They returned to the ranch and took care of the
horses in silence. Johnny stayed behind, grooming Barranca as Scott and Andrew
headed for the house.
"Is he alright?" Andrew asked.
"It bothers him when his past comes
around."
"But, that was about Lancer mostly, wasn't
it?"
Scott stopped and looked at him, a small smile on
his lips. "Try telling Johnny that. He has a unique ability to blame
himself for everything bad that happens."
Andrew frowned at this. "That's not logical,
Scott."
Scott howled. Holding his sides as he bent forward,
he nearly rolled onto the ground.
"What's so funny?" Johnny asked as he
caught up.
"I'm not really sure," Andrew answered,
watching Scott regain control.
"Never mind, brother. I'm sure you wouldn't
appreciate it. Come on, let's get inside," Scott said as he continued to
chuckle.
Scott walked on toward the house and Johnny shook
his head. "Sometimes, I worry about him."
********
"You're back early," Murdoch noted.
"Had some trouble," Johnny replied, ready
to fess up.
"What kind of trouble?" Murdoch asked,
his eyes darting to Andrew.
"Tom Jackson was drunk and called me
out."
"Johnny, you didn't."
"No, he didn't," Scott said tersely.
"Tom started to leave and Johnny turned his back. Tom drew and Johnny shot
him in the shoulder."
Murdoch's shoulders slumped and he shook his head
sadly.
"What's it all about, Uncle? Why do those
people hate Lancers so much?" Andrew asked.
Murdoch walked over and poured himself a drink. He
stared into the fire for a long moment before answering. "It's between
Jackson and me."
"Not if I have to shoot his son, it isn't.
Look, I'm getting tired of dealing with those fools every time we see them. Why
don't you just tell us what it's about," Johnny insisted.
Murdoch glared at him. "It's a private matter,
John."
Johnny threw his hands up in defeat. "Fine,
next time, you shoot him!"
"I'll deal with
*******
The conversation ended abruptly as did most when
Murdoch's mouth clamped shut. The younger Lancers occupied their evening with
talk of the cattle drive to begin in two days.
Ian and Teresa joined them and Murdoch came over
from his desk.
"Ian, I've been checking into the schools in
"Oh?"
"Yes, it's a teaching college. It has a fine
reputation. Are you still interested?"
"Yes, sir.
I most definitely am," he said enthusiastically.
"Well, I took the liberty of sending a wire.
Classes begin three weeks after we'll arrive there. That will give us time to
find suitable lodging for you and get you settled. I thought Scott and Andrew
could return with the men after the drive and Johnny and I will go on to the
city with you."
"Sounds good to me," Johnny smiled.
"I'm just concerned about how your father will
feel about all this," Murdoch imparted.
"I know he wanted to me to attend
"Well, you need to write to him and I will as
well. I'm going to tell you right now, Ian. If he wants you to come home, I'll
have no choice but to honor that. You're still underage."
"I understand, Uncle."
"Good. Well, that's settled. I'm going to turn
in," Murdoch smiled.
*******
Johnny found he couldn't sleep that night. The
gunfight still bothered him. Whatever was between his father and
Sitting on the low wall, he stared up at the stars.
It was a gorgeous night. An owl hooted somewhere in the distance. The velvet
sky lit up by the full moon and billions of stars. He sighed appreciatively at
the spectral.
"Couldn't sleep either?"
He turned his head to see Ian standing at the door.
"No. I like being out here at night. It's so
peaceful," he smiled.
"Am I intruding?"
"Not at all.
Come on out," Johnny replied.
He stepped on through the doors and sat down on the
wall. "It is beautiful."
"So, are you excited about
"Aye, I am. A bit nervous, too, I confess. But,
it's like starting a new life. I feel free," Ian smiled.
"You seem happier these days."
"That's because of you, Johnny. I can't tell
you how much you've helped me. Just having someone I can confide in has been a
huge relief. I know it hasn't been easy for you listening to me go on and
on."
"I gotta admit, it's not something I know anything about. I guess I felt
uncomfortable at times. But, well, we're family, Ian. I'm not going to say I
understand your feelings. I never will. But that doesn't really matter. I don't
have to approve to accept you."
The younger man's face shadowed with a frown.
"I wish my da felt that way."
"It isn't easy. I mean, he wants you to be
like everyone else, I guess. When you're different, it makes things tough.
Maybe your father feels some guilt about that."
"It isn't his fault."
"Doesn't matter.
Parents, good parents, take responsibility for their kids. Look at Murdoch. He
never thought about the consequences of falling in love with a Mexican woman. I
mean, I'm sure he never even considered what it would be like for me."
"What has it been like, Johnny?"
********
Johnny sighed heavily. "I took a lot of
garbage as a kid. Other kids and adults looked at me like I was less than
human. Neither side wanted me around. I didn't have any friends. Any time some
kid tried, his parents would make him stop hangin
around me. I got in a lot of fights," he laughed.
"And now?"
"Hasn't changed much.
Most of the people around here don't care. Still, there are some who do. I
think more than let on. They don't want to say it out loud because of Murdoch,
but I think they'd be real happy if I just went away."
Murdoch stood in the shadows inside the French
doors and listened to his son. His heart felt tight as he thought of what
Johnny had endured in his life. Because of him; because he
fell in love with a stunningly beautiful woman. Because it didn't matter
to him that she was Mexican.
Johnny was right. He had never considered the
consequences for his son. He had always thought it didn't matter. And it didn't
to him.
"It doesn't matter to me. Most of the time, I
just ignore the looks. What's important is that my family accepts me."
"Aye, that is the most important thing,"
Ian agreed sadly.
Johnny laid a hand on the boy's shoulder. "Give
them time, Ian. I can't imagine your father would turn away from you. He's not
that kind of man, from what I saw."
Ian smiled. "Seems I'm
always beholding to you. Thank you."
"De nada," Johnny whispered.
"I'm sorry?"
"It means, it was nothing," Murdoch
interrupted.
******
"What are you doin
up?" Johnny asked.
"Same as you, I guess. Couldn't sleep,"
he smiled as he joined them.
"Well, it isn't nothing,"
Ian said.
"I thought you were going to teach these boys
some Spanish," Murdoch grinned.
"Guess I forgot about it. We still have
time," Johnny replied. "I tell ya what, you feed me good on that
drive and I'll have you speaking Spanish before we get to
"It's a deal. Now, I think I'll turn in.
Goodnight," Ian smiled at them both.
"Guess I should give it another try,
too," Johnny said as he stood.
"Just a minute, son.
I'd like to talk to you."
Johnny sat back down and looked expectantly at his
father.
"That business in town tonight.
Did
Johnny's eyebrows raised.
"Why did you ask me that?"
"Would you just answer me?"
"Yes, he insulted me but that ain't why I got
mad."
"Why did you?"
Johnny dropped his head and mumbled, "cause he insulted you."
Murdoch smiled a little. "What did he
say?"
"Called you a coward."
"I see. What did he call you?"
Johnny shrugged. "Half-breed."
*******
Murdoch sighed and sat beside him. "And that
didn't make you angry?"
"Sure, but it ain't like I've never heard it
before."
"That doesn't make it okay, son."
"I didn't say it was okay," Johnny
snapped. "Why are you askin me about this?"
"I heard what you said to Ian. I feel bad that
you had to go through that," Murdoch confessed.
"Shouldn't be eavesdroppin.
It ain't polite," Johnny said.
Murdoch looked over at him to see if he was angry.
In the light of the moon, he could see the twinkle in Johnny's eyes and he
smiled.
"It doesn't matter, you know," Johnny
said softly.
"It does matter, son. It matters a great deal.
I hate that people treat you that way. And for no other reason than who your parents are."
"You sorry?"
Johnny asked softly.
"Sorry?" Murdoch repeated, confused.
"Yeah, that you ever ......"
"No, son.
I'm not sorry. I have no regrets about loving your mother. I definitely have no
regrets that you are my son. In fact, I'm very proud of you."
********
Upstairs, Ian lay on his bed staring at the
ceiling. Tomorrow would be his last day at Lancer. Even though he didn't take
to ranching, he would miss this place and his family. His newly found extended
family. He smiled as he thought of them.
Teresa had become a good friend. Scott was friendly
and easy to get along with. He'd always been friends with Andrew. Even Uncle
Murdoch was good to him, despite everything. He knew they didn't approve but
they at least accepted him into their lives.
It was Johnny he would miss the most. Someone he
could confide in. Someone who didn't judge him, not once.
He had never looked down on him. Never hesitated to talk when
Ian felt the need. He had felt Johnny's unease more than once, but he
had still encouraged Ian.
He felt as if he'd made a new best friend in
Johnny. If he were completely honest, he knew he felt more than that. But he
would never say it. He tried to keep those feelings at bay, knowing they would
never be reciprocated.
Johnny was soft-spoken, easy going most of the
time. But if there was one thing Ian knew for sure, Johnny loved women. He
laughed to himself as he remembered some of the conversations Johnny and Scott
had had.
Talking about their romances and the women they
were interested in now. Ian wondered how anyone in the world ever had a
relationship. It was a lot of work. He frowned, wondering if he would ever find
someone he could love.
He pushed aside those thoughts and concentrated on
this new adventure. A
********
Sunday was quiet at Lancer. Everyone had gone to church
except Scott and Johnny. They decided to go for a ride and check the herd one
final time before the drive next morning.
They both enjoyed this time together. Having
decided long ago this was the day they got to spend together without the usual
back breaking labor. It was an unspoken decision between them. One Murdoch
didn't know about which caused him to frown on his boys not attending church.
Neither one was terribly religious but both held
their own faith in their own ways. To them, that was all that mattered.
Riding together this fine sunny morning, they both
felt the calm before the storm of a drive. Scott chuckled aloud.
"What?" Johnny asked.
"I was just thinking about tomorrow. Ian and
Andrew are in for quite a surprise."
Johnny laughed as well. "Yeah.
It's hard to explain what it's really like."
"It's definitely something one has to
experience for themselves to understand," Scott
agreed.
"Ain't most everything?"
"True, brother, very true."
They rode along in silence a while longer, just
enjoying each other's company. They stopped by a stream and let the horses
drink and graze as they sat by the bank, skimming stones.
Scott stole a few glances at his brother as they
sat quietly.
********
"What's on your mind,
He smiled and shook his head. "I'm beginning
to think I'm never going to be able to keep anything from you pretty
soon."
Johnny grinned at this. "Make ya
nervous?"
"A little," Scott laughed. His expression
turned serious then. "I wanted to talk to you about Ian."
"What about him?"
"Well, you two seem to have gotten pretty
close. I was just wondering if he's changed his mind about
..... anything."
A small smile caressed Johnny's lips. "Nope."
"And that doesn't bother you?"
"It bothers me, Scott. But there's nothing I
can do about it. He feels the way he feels," Johnny shrugged.
"I'm just not so sure it's a good idea to
leave him alone in a city like
"He grew up in a big city. He's used to it.
Besides, maybe he'll make some new friends there."
"Johnny, you know as well as I do what could
happen to him there," Scott admonished.
Johnny turned and looked at him. "Yeah, I know
and so does he. What do you want me to do, Scott? Lock him up on the ranch
forever? He's old enough to make his own decisions."
"Is he? I know you've been on your own from a
young age, but Ian hasn't. He's always had his family. That makes a difference
in how mature he is."
"Yeah, he didn't have to grow up fast,"
Johnny said. There was a sadness in his voice that
Scott didn't miss. "Look, I'm worried about him, too. But I still think
this is the best thing for him. He doesn't want to go back home. He wants a
chance to be on his own, to be free."
********
"Like you were?"
"No, not like me.
That was a whole different kind of freedom. The kind that's
thrown on you. Ian has a choice and he's made it."
"Well, let's at least make sure he knows he
can always come back here," Scott smiled.
Johnny returned the smile. "So, what'ya want to do the rest of the
day?"
"Oh, I don't know. Why don't we go get those
cousins of ours and do a little fishing."
Johnny's smile widened, the gleam in his eye
causing Scott to give him a suspicious look. Without a word, he drew his gun
and checked the chambers. "Okay, I'm ready."
Scott burst out laughing and grabbed his brother by
the nape of the neck. "You don't mind if I get some more traditional gear,
do you?"
"To each his own, brother," Johnny
laughed.
When they returned to the house, the family had
just come back from church. Scott and Johnny walked in. The first one they saw
was their father. His expression gave them both pause.
The guest stood up and both knew exactly why
Murdoch looked as he did.
"What's going on?" Johnny asked tightly.
His eyes narrowed as he took in Russell Jackson.
"Russ is here to talk to you about his boy,
Johnny," Murdoch explained, his own tone matching Johnny's.
"What about him?"
"What about him? His arm is useless. THAT'S
what about him!"
Johnny looked at him without emotion.
"Could've been worse," he said flatly.
"And how is that?"
"Could be dead."
******
Johnny just stared at him.
"You're going to pay for it!"
One side of Johnny's mouth turned up.
"That is ridiculous. Mr. Jackson, Tom started
the whole thing. There's a roomful of people who witnessed it. He drew on
Johnny when his back was turned. How is that my brother's doing?" Scott
fumed.
"He provoked Tom by insulting our hands!"
"Your hands approached us. We were minding our
own business when they came looking for trouble," Scott shot back.
"That's not how I heard it."
"I don't care what you heard! Johnny was the
one provoked. Your son insulted him and me," Murdoch bellowed.
Johnny flinched a little at the familiar words but
he couldn't help the pride he felt at his father defending him.
"Insulted him how?"
"He called Johnny a half-breed and a
coward," Andrew supplied.
"How is the truth an insult?"
"You will not come into my house and spread
that filth, Russ! Johnny did nothing wrong. He defended himself. Tom was drunk
and stupid and he's paying for it now. If he had any sense, he would have never
called Johnny out in the first place. Now, get off our land!"
*********
The room was quiet for several seconds after the
door slammed shut. Everyone stood still for a time.
"Well, that was fun," Johnny smirked.
"Yes, very pleasant," Scott said.
"Well, now we know why Tom is such a
moron," Andrew imparted.
Scott and Johnny chuckled at that wise observation.
Murdoch was not amused.
"Let's just forget about it and try to enjoy
the rest of the day," he grumbled.
"Forget about it? He threatened Johnny,"
Ian spoke for the first time.
"Don't worry about that. He's just blowing off
steam," Johnny smiled.
"Are you sure about that? He was livid,"
Ian asked.
"Russ Jackson talks big but he can't back it
up. Johnny's right, he was just talking," Murdoch said.
Ian raised his brows but said nothing else. He
supposed they knew what they were talking about.
"Well, I don't feel much like fishing
now," Scott sighed.
"Me either," Johnny agreed.
Supper conversation consisted of the cattle drive
and nothing else. All three Lancer men tried to impress upon Ian and Andrew how
hard this journey would be. But, it was as Scott said, nothing could really
prepare them.
They all retired early,
appreciating the comfortable beds they would be without for the next several
weeks.
*
Monday morning burst forth in a flurry of activity.
Ranch hands milled about preparing for the drive. The kitchen sang with the
sounds of pots and pans, dishes and cups, as Teresa prepared a hearty meal.
Ian was supervising the loading of the cook's
wagon. A chore that brought suspicious looks from the vaqueros whose stomach's were in his hands.
Johnny and Scott entered the kitchen and took their
places quietly. Sipping their coffee, their minds worked over the day's events.
Murdoch came in from outside and joined them.
"How's it going out there?" Johnny asked.
"Everything's coming together on schedule,
son."
"Murdoch, I'm worried about Russ
Jackson," Scott spoke up.
The rancher sighed and looked steadily at his
eldest. "We won't even be here, Scott."
"That is my point, sir. How far would this man
go for revenge? I don't like the idea of leaving Teresa all alone."
"Damn," Johnny breathed, the thought not
having occurred to him.
"There's no need for that language, Johnny.
Russ isn't the kind of man who would take his anger out on a woman,"
Murdoch said.
"What about his hands?" Scott asked.
Murdoch considered that question. He didn't really
know. "Maybe Teresa should visit the Haverty's
while we're gone."
"I can take care of myself," she said
with indignation.
"I know you can, sweetheart. But, I would feel
better knowing you aren't alone," Murdoch smiled.
She conceded the point. "Well, I wasn't
looking forward to being alone anyway. Millie could always use help with the
twins."
"Good, that's settled. You'll go today?"
"I'll go today," she smiled and kissed
the top of his head.
*******
Within an hour the Lancers were saddled and ready
to leave. All that was left to do was get away from Teresa's big brown eyes. Eyes that were brimming with tears just like every year.
"Now, Teresa, none of that," Murdoch
smiled.
"You know how I am. Just go and be safe,"
she smiled.
Murdoch turned to Johnny and, with a grin, said,
"how about using that ear-piercing whistle of yours to get us
started?"
Johnny laughed and readjusted his hat on his head,
then whistled shrilly. His arm raised in the air, he brought
it down in a slash to signal the move.
In a cloud of dust and hooves, they began the
journey to
Ian brought up the rear with the cook's wagon,
waving to Teresa as he passed. "I'll write to you," he called.
"You'd better," she called back and
watched until they moved under the great arch.
Sighing, she went inside to pack for her visit.
It was slow and grueling work. Andrew felt like he
was eating most of the trail. Even through the bandana he wore over his mouth
and nose, he could taste the dust.
Scott rode with him, keeping a wary eye on the
greenhorn. Johnny rode drag. A position no one wanted but he didn't mind. He
liked being able to see everything in front and behind him.
What was in front of him was the backside of a thousand
head of cattle. Behind him came Ian, another reason to ride drag. He wanted to
keep an eye on his cousin. Ian had been taught how to drive the wagon by
Murdoch himself but Johnny was taking no chances with his cousin's well-being.
As for Murdoch, he watched it all with some
amusement. Both sons taking protective stances instinctively.
It reminded him of last year when Johnny would not let Scott out of his sight.
*******
As dusk came, they stopped for the night. Murdoch
decided to give Andrew a break for the first few days and not assign him to
night herd duty. He hadn't seen any signs of the men conspiring to break in the
greenhorn but he knew it was coming. It always did. Scott had not been immune
last year so he was certain Andrew wouldn't miss out either.
He figured Ian was safe from that particular
initiation. Though he was sure they would test the boy in some fashion. He
smiled at the customs and traditions.
Scott approached him then and he handed off the
assignments to his eldest. Something that seemed natural to him and Scott
accepted the task without question. As he walked away, Murdoch thought of how
much Scott had grown into this life. How easily he took charge of situations.
Johnny did as well, though his techniques were
decidedly different. Where Scott took the no nonsense direct approach, Johnny
was more laid back. The hands accepted both methods easily and Murdoch was a
proud man.
His reverie was broken by his youngest who approached him with a devilish grin. Murdoch tensed a
little, waiting for the quip that was sure to come.
"Guess we'll find out if Ian will be makin the whole trip with us."
"I guess we will. I noticed you rode drag
today," Murdoch said, knowing full well why.
"Is it a problem?"
"Not at all.
No one else wants to do it. I have to wonder why you do."
Johnny smiled and played along. "Didn't you
know? I have a fascination with the backside of cows."
Murdoch chuckled and wrapped his arm around
Johnny's shoulders, leading him toward the chuckwagon.
The smells were enticing and both of them
anticipated the meal.
********
As they neared, the bell began to clang. They knew
there was about to be a stampede of men and braced themselves for the
onslaught.
Ian stared wide-eyed as they converged on him,
plates ready and held out. He recovered quickly and began serving out the stew
and biscuits, praying the entire time that they approved.
Hungry cowboys found someplace to sit as they dove
into the vittles. Most stopped after the first bite
and looked up, stunned.
Johnny took a bite and had the same expression.
"Ian, this is great!"
"Dang, this is the best stew I ever had!"
one of the hands exclaimed and they all nodded in agreement.
Ian relaxed measurably at the compliments and
thanked them all.
"Excellent, cousin," Scott said as he
finally got his plate.
Ian joined the family and smiled. "I'm glad
you like it. I was worried I might get horsewhipped."
They all laughed at the thought.
"You keep cookin
like this and you'll make yourself a lot of friends around here," Johnny
smiled.
"Well, what did you boys think of your first
day?" Murdoch asked.
"It's dusty. I've never been so tired,"
Andrew said.
"Oh, don't worry, you'll be more tired,"
Johnny grinned.
"I guess I have the easy part, just driving
the wagon. But, it is a dirty undertaking," Ian said.
"You have the most important job on the drive,
Ian. Believe me, these men would rather go without their horses than a good
cook," Scott laughed.
*******
The third day of the drive was much like the first
two. They found a suitable place to stop for the night. Johnny took care of the
remuda this night and Scott had night herd duty.
As the men gathered for supper, Andrew decided to
join them. For the past two nights he had sat with his family. He thought it
was time to try to get to know these men.
He was quiet, listening to them talk. Tall tales of
previous drives turned into taller tales of past dalliances with the female of
the species. Andrew laughed with them as they stories became more unbelievable.
"What about you, Andrew? Ya got any good
stories?" It was Frank who asked, a seasoned
Lancer hand.
"I'm afraid nothing to compare with you men.
You've led interesting lives," he smiled.
"What did ya do back in
"I attended university."
The men grew quiet then, unsure what comment to
make to that.
"Like Scott, huh?" Frank finally said.
"Yes, like Scott."
"Well, if ya turn out like him, you'll do just
fine here."
"Thank you. I hope I can measure up,"
Andrew smiled. He appreciated the effort the man was making.
"Measure up to what?"
Johnny asked as he joined them.
"Scott. I was telling them I went to
university back home," Andrew explained.
Johnny nodded and smiled. "Yeah, he's pretty
smart. Not too bad with the cattle either," he winked at Andrew.
"All ya gotta do now
is teach 'im how to handle a
gun," Frank said and the men burst out laughing.
Andrew's face turned beet red at this but when he
looked at his cousin, Johnny was rolling.
******
Murdoch heard the laughter and saw his son and
nephew joining in. He was relieved Andrew seemed to be fitting in. In fact, he
thought the young man was making excellent progress under Scott's tutelage.
He joined the group around the fire, settling in
beside Johnny. "Men," he nodded.
"Hey, Boss. Was just tellin
Johnny he needs ta teach Andy here about guns," Frank grinned.
Murdoch smiled a little. "I think that's been
taken care of Frank."
Andrew cringed a little at the nickname. He didn't
like it but wasn't sure if he should say anything.
"Oh, I think Andrew will catch on. He's done
real well so far," Johnny said, accentuating the young man's proper name.
Andrew smiled in appreciation and wondered at how
Johnny knew.
"Ya gonna teach 'im
to be as fast as you, Johnny?" Walt asked.
"Well, now that wouldn't be to my advantage,
would it?" Johnny grinned.
Murdoch became uncomfortable with the line the
conversation was taking and cleared his throat. "Andrew, you'll have night
herd duty tomorrow."
"I was wonderin when
that would be," he nodded.
Johnny got up suddenly and walked away from the
group. Murdoch closed his eyes briefly, knowing the reason for his son's sudden
departure. He excused himself and went to find the young man.
*******
Johnny leaned against a tree and looked out over
the night sky. He heard Murdoch walk up behind him and stand there.
"Looks like we're gonna be lucky with the
weather," he said softly.
"Yes, that will be a nice change,"
Murdoch replied.
"I think Andrew's gonna make a fine rancher."
"He will. He's made great progress
already."
"Don't worry, I won't teach him how to be a
gunhawk," Johnny said quietly.
"I wasn't worried about that in the least,
son."
Johnny only nodded his head.
"I guess I still get uncomfortable when your past
is mentioned."
"Guess so."
"It's just that ..... I forget about it. Then,
something gets said and I'm reminded."
Johnny turned to face him then. A
look of pure surprise on his face. "You forget about it?"
Murdoch only stared at him, wondering what he'd
said wrong now.
"I didn't think you ever forgot about
it," Johnny clarified.
"I'm sorry, son."
"Don't be sorry. I'm glad. I mean ..... it's nice to know it's
not on your mind all the time."
"At first, it was. But, now, well, I guess I
just don't look at you the same way I used to."
"How do you look at me?" Johnny asked
quietly.
"As my son, my partner, a rancher and a top
hand," Murdoch replied confidently.
Johnny's eyes lit up and a smile brightened his
face. "Yeah?"
"Yeah."
Johnny started to say more but he was stopped by a
hullabaloo in the camp. He and Murdoch went quickly to see what was wrong.
******
As they approached, they could see two of the men
fighting. Rolling around on the ground, it was impossible to tell who it was.
Johnny grabbed one and Murdoch the other as they
pulled the men apart.
"What's the meaning of this?" Murdoch
demanded. "Andrew?" he said in totally surprise.
Johnny looked at the man whose collar he was
grasping and released him when he saw it was his cousin.
Murdoch gained control of himself. "What
happened?"
"Nothin, Boss,"
Mike said.
"Didn't look like nothin.
Now, what were you fightin about?" Johnny asked.
Neither man was willing to speak it and
Murdoch's temper was rising. "If you two have so much energy, you won't
mind pulling night herd duty."
"I did it last night, Boss," Mike
complained.
"Well, it must not have been much of a strain
if you have the gumption to fight. Johnny, get your cousin cleaned up and out
to the herd. Mike, get yourself taken care of and go on out as well. Now, gentlemen!"
Johnny took Andrew by the arm and led him off to
the nearby creek. Without a word, he let his cousin clean his bloodied lip.
When Andrew turned around, Johnny was standing, hands on hips, waiting.
"Well, you gonna tell me how that
started?"
"It's between me and that idiot," Andrew
spat.
Johnny took a deep breath and let it out slowly.
Finding his patience, he spoke strongly yet without anger.
"Andrew, on a cattle drive every man has to
look out for each other. It's dangerous business and
bad feelings can get in the way. Whatever happened, you might want to find some
kind of middle ground with Mike. He's a good hand and we can't afford to lose
him or you."
"I'll talk to him, Johnny. Just
not tonight."
"I think that's best. Come on, I'll show you
what to do."
******
Scott was surprised to see his brother and cousin.
Johnny didn't explain until Andrew was settled into his watch. Once he and
Scott headed back to camp, Johnny told his brother about the fight.
"Andrew? That's hard to believe," Scott
said.
"I know. But there he was, rollin
around on the ground with Mike."
"What caused it?"
"Neither one will say. Andrew said he'd square
things with Mike tomorrow."
"Well, I'm glad of that. That kind of tension
can be dangerous," Scott commented.
"That's what I told him. Come on, brother. Ian
made some chicken tonight that'll make you think you died and gone to
heaven."
"I think that boy missed his calling. He
should be a chef," Scott laughed.
They joined the men around the fire and the
suspense was thick. Not being a shy one, Johnny spoke up. "I don't guess
anyone wants to tell us what happened here tonight."
No one spoke for a long moment. Frank finally
supplied some information.
"Mike was joking about Andrew's accent. It was
all fine with him for a while. Then Mike stepped out of line."
"How?"
Scott asked.
"Well, I don't like to talk about folks behind
their backs, Scott."
"Just tell us what happened, Frank,"
Johnny pushed.
"Mike made a comment bout .... Ian."
Johnny dropped his head and sighed. "What did
he say?"
"Called him a pansy," Frank mumbled.
********
Well, there it was. It was out in the open now.
Johnny wondered how they'd found out.
Suddenly, all the hands but Frank disappeared.
"Did Ian hear that?" Scott asked.
"Nah, he wasn't around. Andrew, he just laid
into Mike."
"How did Mike find out about Ian?" Johnny
asked.
Frank looked at him like he was crazy.
"Everybody knows, Johnny. Rumors been flyin like crazy in the bunkhouse."
"What rumors?" Johnny asked.
Frank dipped his head and didn't answer.
"What rumors?" Johnny repeated more
insistently.
"You know how the men talk, Johnny. It don't mean nothin. They just seen you and Ian spending a lot of time together."
Johnny flew to his feet. "Are you tellin me they think I'm ...."
"No! Not really. I mean they know ya ain't but
they like ta joke about it."
Johnny's fists clenched and unclenched as he tried
to keep control of his anger. Scott stood up and put a hand on his arm.
"Sit down, brother. It doesn't matter."
"It matters, Scott," he hissed, but sat
back down.
"Look, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said
anything," Frank apologized.
"No, I'm glad you told us. Thanks,
Frank," Johnny mumbled.
Frank left them then and Johnny stared into the
flames, still seething.
********
"Frank was right, you know. The men just like
to talk," Scott tried.
"I know, Scott, but you wouldn't take it so
light if it was you."
Scott had to concede that point. "You're
right. But, Ian will be gone after the drive. Things will go back to
normal."
Johnny shook his head. "Sure. Get rid of the
problem and the prejudice goes with it, right?"
"Seems I can't say anything right
tonight," Scott said a bit harshly.
Johnny blew out a breath and looked at his brother.
"I'm sorry. I shouldn't be takin this out on
you."
"It's alright, Johnny. I just hate to see this
bother you so much. I'm sure it will all blow over. The men have known for
quite a while, evidently, and they haven't said anything until now."
"Well, I sure can't blame Andrew for
this."
"Blame Andrew for what?"
Murdoch said from behind them.
Johnny groaned under his breath and Scott sighed.
Murdoch sat down and waited for his answer. Scott supplied it and watched his
father's face turn to granite.
"Maybe we should send Ian on to
"What are we supposed to do about a
cook?" Scott asked.
"I don't know! I have enough to deal with as
it is," Murdoch groused.
"You don't have to deal with this, Murdoch.
I'll handle Ian and Andrew and Mike for that matter," Johnny said.
"Alright, son.
I just don't need any added problems. The drive is enough." With that
Murdoch skulked away.
Scott stared after him. "Did he just
relent?"
Johnny laughed. "I guess he did. Well, I have
to talk to Ian and then I'd like to get a minute of sleep."
"Good luck, on both," Scott smiled and
slapped him on the back.
*
Johnny found Ian in the back of the wagon cleaning
up.
"Are ya still hungry, cousin?"
"No, I'm full, Ian. I'm gonna have to work
twice as hard just to keep from gettin fat on your cookin," Johnny smiled.
"It's Teresa you should be grateful to,"
he smiled back.
Johnny's expression turned serious. "Can you
stop that for a minute? I need to talk to you."
Ian set down the pot and dried his hands.
"Andrew got in a fight with another hand
tonight."
"Andrew? That doesn't sound like him. What was
it about?"
Johnny sighed. "You.
Seems the hands know about you. Have for some time now."
Ian's face paled and he sat on the tailgate.
"God," he whispered.
"It's not all that bad. They won't say
anything to you."
"How do you know that?"
"Because they want to eat.
It's just that they've been talking amongst themselves. Apparently, they think
you and me .... that we spend
too much time together," Johnny said and felt completely embarrassed.
Ian looked up at him and Johnny knew in that
instant. He shifted his feet and looked down at the ground.
"I'll stay away from you, Johnny. I never
wanted to cause you any trouble."
"I know. Just thought you should know what
happened. Anyway, I'm gonna turn in. Goodnight." He walked away quickly.
******
Johnny stayed as far away from Ian as he could the
rest of the drive. They pushed the cattle on into
Once the cattle were taken care of and the men
paid, Murdoch booked hotel rooms for the family. The men would have the weekend
to spend their pay and relax before heading back to the ranch.
It was then that Johnny decided to approach his
father about the trip to
Murdoch opened the door and, seeing it was Johnny,
turned and walked back to his chair.
"Do you want to wait until Monday to head
out?" he asked.
"That's what I want to talk to you about,
Murdoch. I think it'd be better if you and Scott went with Ian," Johnny
said softly.
Why?"
Johnny sat down in the chair opposite his father.
"I just think it's best."
"This whole idea was yours to begin with,
John. Now, you want to back out?"
Johnny sighed heavily. "It ain't that. I just .... I don't feel comfortable around Ian anymore."
"Why not?"
Johnny looked up at his father and felt the flush come
across his cheeks.
"Johnny, what is it?"
"I think he .... he's become attached to me."
"I'm sure he has. You've been good to
him," Murdoch answered.
"More than that, Murdoch," Johnny said,
trying to convey the thought without having to say it.
Murdoch's face took on a surprised but
understanding expression. "I see. Well, maybe it would be best if you went
back with the others. I'm sure Scott and I can handle it."
Johnny's shoulders relaxed and he sighed.
"Thanks."
********
"I thought we would all have supper together
tonight but ...." Murdoch trailed off.
"It's alright. I mean, I'm gonna have to tell
him I'm not going anyway," Johnny smiled a little.
A knock at the door ended the discussion and
Murdoch, tired from weeks in the saddle, simply called out to enter.
Ian walked into the room and stopped on a dime.
"Oh, I'll come back."
"No, no. Come on in, Ian. Johnny and I were
just discussing
Ian looked at each of them in turn and nodded. "Alright, Uncle. If you think it's best."
"I do. Now, I want everyone together for
supper tonight. You'll tell Andrew?"
"If I can find him.
He took off with Scott," Ian answered.
"I'll find them. I have a pretty good idea
where they are," Johnny grinned and stood. As he passed the boy, he
slowed. "See ya tonight."
"Sure, Johnny."
"Did you need something, son?" Murdoch
asked.
"Oh, well, I .... no,
it isn't important now."
Murdoch cocked a brow. "It wouldn't have
anything to do with Johnny, would it?"
The boy's face reddened. "No, it's alright
now," he mumbled and left the room.
Murdoch sighed loudly. He wished he could
understand what Ian was feeling. He just couldn't connect with the boy.
*******
Johnny found his brother and cousin in the saloon
with most of the hands as expected. They spent the afternoon enjoying themselves. A lovely brunette approached Johnny and he
departed from his family to spend some time in a corner table with the girl.
He was engrossed in conversation with her. Bantering back and forth seductively, when Scott walked up and
ruined it.
"Time to go, brother.
Murdoch will be waiting."
Johnny sighed and smiled apologetically.
"You just come on back later, honey. I'll be
around," she smiled.
"I'll do that," he smiled back as Scott
dragged him away.
"You know, Murdoch would have
understood," he said to Scott as they walked down the street.
"No, he wouldn't," Scott replied.
"Okay, he wouldn't. But, I wouldn't have cared
either," Johnny grinned.
"If ya don't mind, I'll go back with ya,
Johnny. There was a bonny lass eyeing me in
there," Andrew spoke.
"Sure, maybe we can even find something for
Scott."
"Don't you worry about me, little brother. The day I need your help finding a woman is the day
they sit me in a rocking chair permanently."
They continued their banter all the way into the
hotel dining room. They didn't stop as they sat down, either.
Murdoch cleared his throat. "I don't think
that's appropriate conversation for the dinner table, boys."
"But, Murdoch, you don't understand. That gal
was all over me," Johnny said.
"You'll get over it," he clipped.
Johnny sighed pitifully, then
grinned.
*******
Murdoch decided to wait until Monday to head for
Monday morning came and it was time to leave.
Murdoch stood on the train platform drilling instructions into Johnny's
slightly aching head.
"Murdoch! I got it," he finally said.
Ian walked over to them and asked to speak
privately with Johnny. They walked away to the corner.
"I just wanted to thank you once more for all
you've done for me. You don't know how much it helped to have someone to talk
to. I know I've made you uncomfortable. I never meant to give away my feelings.
I know you asked Uncle Murdoch to have Scott go instead of you."
"Ian, I don't know what to say to you. I wish
things could be different for you but I know that won't happen. Just remember
everything I told you. Take care of yourself and don't trust too easily,"
Johnny said sadly.
"I'll remember, Johnny. I won't ever forget
you, cousin." Ian extended his hand and Johnny shook it firmly.
Smiling, he said, "you
never know what you might find in the big city. But, if you decide you don't
want to be a teacher, well, you're a hell of a cook."
Ian laughed. "Thank you. I do enjoy it. As you
said, one never knows."
They heard the train whistle as it made it's way into the station. They rejoined the rest of the
clan. Johnny shook hands with his father and brother and warned them about the
sins of the big city.
Johnny and Andrew watched as the train pulled away.
"He'll be alright," Andrew said.
"Sure, he'll be fine."
*******
"Well, cousin. I guess we should round up the
men and head back," Johnny smiled.
"This has been some experience."
"Are you going to stay with us? We'd be happy
if you did," Johnny asked.
"I've been thinking a lot about that, Johnny.
I like ranching, I really do. But, I'm still not sure it's what I want. I
thought I would go back home and finish school. Maybe even find a way to get
along with da."
"That's a good idea. You never know how long
you're gonna have with him."
"You seem to do alright with Uncle
Murdoch."
"We have our moments. Some
good, some bad. But, lately, it's been mostly good. I think we found
some middle ground finally. Something he said to me during the drive really
brought that home."
Andrew waited for a moment then decided Johnny
didn't want to share what the something was. "Well, I'm glad. I think I've
learned a great deal here. I know how lucky I am now."
Johnny wrapped an arm around his shoulder.
"Andrew, it's all about how you look at the world. You can moan and cry
about how things are or you can do something to change them. If you don't like
your life, you have choices. That's something I had to learn not so very long
ago."
"There is one thing I'd like to learn before I
leave," Andrew said with a grin.
"What's that?"
"Would you teach me to shoot? I feel like I
can take a gun apart and put it back together with my eyes closed. But I never
got to fire it."
"Um, yeah, you did," Johnny grinned
wickedly.
Andrew dropped his head at this and Johnny laughed.
"Sure, I can teach you to shoot. Come on, cuz. We have a lot of miles to go before home."
*******
It took less than a week to return to Lancer.
Andrew was amazed at the difference a thousand head of cattle made. He felt a
sense of relief at seeing the white arch ahead. Maybe he'd been wrong. Maybe
this was the place for him. He decided he needed more time to think things
through.
Johnny kneed his horse into a gallop as they neared.
Anxious to get home and scanning the place, too. All
seemed quiet as they arrived in front of the house.
Jelly appeared to welcome them home. "I
thought Scott was comin back."
"Change of plans, Jelly. How've things been
here?" Johnny asked.
"Quiet as a church."
"Good. No sign of the
"Heard the old man took Tom to
Johnny relaxed and smiled. "Teresa
still gone?"
"Yep."
"Well, don't talk so much!" Johnny
teased.
"I'll let Maria know yer
back," Jelly said and started to walk away.
"Hey, Jelly, what's wrong with you?"
Johnny asked.
"I'm alright, Johnny. Welcome home." The
old man walked away then, leaving Johnny perplexed.
"Johnny, what is it?" Andrew asked.
"I don't know. Somethin's
wrong with him. He's not acting himself."
********
Johnny and Andrew went into the house and were
greeted enthusiastically by Maria.
"Well, that's more like it!" Johnny
grinned as he hugged the woman. "What's wrong with Jelly?"
She sighed and shook her head. "He has been moping
around for days. He will not talk to me, Juanito."
Johnny frowned and went to the kitchen to find
Jelly drinking coffee. He sat down next to him and stared.
"You and me are
friends, ain't we, Jelly?"
"Sure, Johnny."
"Tell me what's wrong."
"I reckon I just got the dreads," he
sighed.
"Is Dewdrop okay?"
"Sure, he's fine."
"Come on, Jelly. This isn't like you. Tell me
the truth."
Jelly sat his cup down and looked straight at
Johnny. "Heard talk about the Circle J hands.
Sounds like they been just waitin
for you ta get back."
"To do what?"
"What'ya
think?!"
Johnny smiled softly at the old man. "And
that's what's got you all sad? Come on, Jelly. Stop worryin
so much."
"I'll stop worryin
when that bunch leaves this family alone! Well, reckon I'll go get Teresa. She
made me promise to soon as ya got back."
******
Johnny was standing in the yard talking to a hand
when Jelly and Teresa drove up. She jumped down and ran to him, throwing her
arms around his neck. He picked her up and swirled her around, sitting her down
gently.
"I've missed you so much!"
"I missed you, too, querida."
She smiled and hooked her arm into his, walking him
toward the house talking a mile a minute.
Once inside, she became quiet. "Why did you
come back instead of Scott?"
Johnny walked to the fireplace, trying to act
casual. "No reason in particular. How are the twins?"
"Gorgeous, but a handful," she smiled, then her face fell. "Johnny, there's been talk that the
hands from the Circle J...."
"Jelly told me," he interrupted.
"What are you going to do?"
"Not a thing, honey."
"You're just going to ignore it?" she
asked incredulously.
"That's right. I have enough to deal with
without worrying about a couple of idiots. Besides, they talk a good game, but
they're both cowards."
"I don't think you should be takin this so lightly, Johnny," Andrew spoke up.
"Is that right? Look at this. He gets in one
fight and he's ready to take all comers," Johnny grinned devilishly.
"Andrew, you got in a fight?" Teresa
asked in dismay.
"It was nothing, Teresa," he said, his
head hung.
"I don't want to know. I'm going to see Maria
and start dinner," she sighed.
******
That evening the three young people enjoyed a quiet
evening. Johnny went over the work to be done the next day with Andrew and they
worked out their schedules. Teresa retired early, worn out from chasing the
twin two-year-olds around for a month.
"When do ya think you'll have time to teach me
to shoot?"
Johnny smiled at his enthusiasm. "Oh, tomorrow
evening. Don't get all worked up about it, Andrew. A gun is a tool, just like a
hammer. It's only purpose is to kill and your only use for it is to protect
yourself and yours."
"That's exactly the problem. I feel like I'm a
burden to you all. Having to watch out for me when I could do
it myself."
"It's not a burden but I know what you mean. I
...." Johnny trailed off, his senses becoming alerted. He stood up and
walked to the French doors, peering into the night.
"What is it?" Andrew asked, joining him.
"Don't know. Grab one of those rifles and
pretend you know how to use it," Johnny grinned. He eased the door open
and had slipped out by the time Andrew returned.
"I don't see anything," Andrew whispered.
"Neither do I, but I feel it," Johnny
answered.
Before Andrew could ask what the heck that meant,
they heard a ruckus from the barn. Johnny tensed when he recognized Barranca's
whinny. The horse sounded anxious.
He took off, moving stealthily across the yard. He
used the trees and bushes for quick cover. But the more anxious Barranca
became, the more reckless Johnny acted.
Desperate to get to the palomino, he threw caution
aside and took off straight for the barn doors. Throwing them open and
crouching low, gun drawn, Johnny took a step back as the heat hit him.
*******
He whirled around, ready for anything. His heart
stopped when he saw it was Andrew.
"Ring that bell there. Ring it real loud then
start throwin water on the fire!" he shouted.
Andrew turned and started beating on the triangle
with savage fear. He watched, wide-eyed, as Johnny darted into the blaze.
Jelly came running, followed by the hands and they
all started a fire line. Handing off buckets to battle the
flames.
"Where's Johnny?" Jelly asked.
"In the barn!"
Andrew answered, fear dripping off his voice.
"Good Lord!"
Barranca came tearing out of the barn, following by
Remmie and the rest of the horses. Jelly waited what
seemed an eternity but Johnny did not show.
"Andrew! Throw that water on me!" he
yelled. "Do it now!" Jelly ordered when met by the stunned stare.
Andrew doused him with cold water and Jelly grabbed
a horse blanket. He felt it jerked from his hands and looked up at the tall
young man. Andrew simply shook his head, covered it with the blanket, and
disappeared into the inferno.
Jelly stared after him for a heartbeat, then began working the fire line, cussing the whole time.
******
Andrew kept low, lifting the blanket so he could
see where he was going. He called out for Johnny but heard no reply for several
seconds. Then, he heard a cough and headed in that direction.
Kneeling in a stall, Johnny had been overcome by
the smoke as he struggled with a panic-stricken mare. She refused to budge and
he refused to leave her.
Andrew grabbed him under the arm and dragged him
out of the barn.
"No, go back and get her!" Johnny fought.
"I'm not lettin you
die for a horse!" Andrew replied angrily as he led his cousin to fresh
air.
Johnny gulped in lungs full of fresh air and
coughed harshly for several minutes. Teresa appeared with drinking water and
she and Andrew tried to get him inside.
Johnny was having none of it, pulling away from
them both. He turned and watched as the hands doused the last of the flames.
Watching as the thick black smoke hung in the air,
he felt he had failed. He hung his head and shook it sadly, then with a sigh,
regained his composure.
"Frank, take some men and round those horses
back up. Take them to the lower pasture for tonight. Walt, keep putting water
on the barn. Soak it good and put a guard on all night in case it flares
up." Turning to his cousin, Johnny fumed. "What kind if danged fool
are you? Never mind, help with the barn," he spat and headed inside.
Teresa followed him after giving Andrew a
sympathetic smile. "Why did you yell at him like that?"
Johnny stopped and faced her. "He had no right
riskin his life like that."
"And you did?" she countered, hands on
hips.
"It's my ranch, Teresa."
"Yes, and you are his family, Johnny. Which is
more important?"
Johnny stared at her for a long moment. He bit back
the sarcastic retort and relented. "Okay, you're right. I'm gonna change
clothes and clean up. I'll talk to him." He headed to the kitchen and she
shook her head at his hard-headedness.
******
Johnny returned to the barn after cleaning up.
Finding Andrew, he inquired as to the progress.
"I think it's out. I
doubt there will be any flare-ups," he replied flatly.
"Look, I'm sorry I yelled. I just didn't want
you gettin hurt," Johnny mumbled contritely.
Andrew's expression turned thoughtful. "I
heard you once say something to Scott that really struck me. You said
"Lancer takes care of it's own." I didn't
understand it at first, but now I do. You're my family, Johnny."
"You know something? I think you were wrong. I
think this life is for you."
"Maybe so.
I thought I'd give it a little more time. When we got home, it felt .... right."
Johnny smiled. "Home.
It's just about the best word there is."
"How do you think it started?" Andrew
asked.
"This is how," Jelly announced. He walked
out of the barn with a lantern. The glass had been smashed.
"Could have happened in the fire, Jelly,"
Johnny said.
"Could have been on purpose, too," the
old man countered.
"Circle J?"
"That'd be my guess."
Johnny shook his head and sighed. "We don't
have any proof, Jelly."
"Reckon the law'd
need proof, but I don't!"
"It sure would be nice to know what Old Man
Jackson's got against Murdoch," Johnny thought aloud.
"Don't reckon it'd matter to them devils he's
got workin fer 'im. They'd be jest as happy if'n
it was over somethin stupid!"
"What will you do, Johnny?" Andrew asked.
"Let Val know tomorrow. That's all we can do.
But, I want two guards posted on the house and outbuildings until we find out
what's goin on. Now, I'd like to find my horse."
"Best find Scott's, too. If ya don't, it'll be
the devil ta pay," Jelly called as he walked
away.
*
The next morning, Johnny surveyed the damage in the
light of day. It wasn't as bad as he thought. Some structural
damage but not enough to warrant razing the whole building. He figured
they could get it repaired in about a week.
He and Andrew set off for
"Are ya alright, Johnny?"
"I'm fine. Why?"
"Ya ate a lot of smoke last night,"
Andrew reminded him.
"I'm okay, cousin. Just
coughed some last night." He pulled up in front of the lumber mill
and handed his list to the owner. Then, he and Andrew set off to see Val.
Stepping into the sheriff's office, Johnny found
the front room empty. "Val!"
"What?!"
Johnny chuckled at the grump. "I ain't here to
socialize," he called out.
This got Val's attention and he appeared from the
cell area, broom in hand. "What's the matter?"
"Barn caught fire last night," Johnny
reported.
"Anybody hurt?"
"No."
Val stopped and turned to look at him. "Reckon
Barranca's alright. Ya ain't cryin!"
This brought a chuckle from Andrew and a murderous
look from Johnny.
******
"Well, so your barn burned down. Why is that
my problem?"
"You're just full of good cheer today. It
didn't burn down.
"Who?"
"I don't have any proof, Val. Just heard that the Circle J bunch has been makin
a lot of noise about me."
"Yeah, I heard that noise. You're right,
Johnny. Don't prove anything. I'll ride out and take a look at the barn but I
doubt there's much I can do."
"I figured but I reckoned you'd want to know
about it. Now, think you could spare a cup of coffee or would it kill ya?"
Johnny grinned.
Andrew and Johnny left the sheriff's office and
headed back to the wagon. As they approached, they saw Pete and Steve hanging
around the tailgate.
Johnny sighed softly and walked up to them.
"Ya buildin
somethin, Lancer?" Pete asked.
"That's very good, Pete. Can you spell
barn?"
Pete grinned snidely. "Sure can. F I R E."
"Something you want to tell me, Pete? Or do
you really think you're being smart?" Johnny said coldly.
"Oh, I heard about your barn burnin down, is all. Lose many
horses? I sure hope that pretty palomino didn't get barbequed," he
grinned.
Before Pete knew what was happening, he was thrown
against the side of the lumber mill's office. Johnny's face was an inch from
his.
"Listen real close, scumbag. If you touch that
horse or any other part of Lancer again, I'll come lookin
for YOU. And I don't need any proof to back me up. So, if you think you're
doing this for your boss, think again. Cause it'll be you they bury, not
him." Johnny released him and took one step back. "That goes for the
rest of your mob, too. You tell 'im all for me. Set
one foot on Lancer land, you'll be facing Johnny Madrid's gun."
Pete swallowed hard but said nothing. Steve had
backed away a good distance by now and Andrew gawked openly at his cousin. But
Johnny wasn't quite through.
"Matter of fact, if any Circle J hand
steps foot on Lancer land, I'm holding you personally responsible.
Understand?" He clarified his point by pushing his finger into Pete's
chest.
The man could not seem to find his voice and only
stared at Johnny.
"I asked you a question!"
Pete nodded his head vigorously.
"Good, now get away from me!"
Both men took off, nearly running down the street.
Johnny took a deep breath and blew it out. He placed both hands against the
building and leaned forward as he found his composure.
******
When he finally turned around Andrew was still
staring at him, slack-jawed. But Johnny didn't see him,
he was looking behind him at Val.
Hands on hips, Johnny stood defiantly before his
friend.
"Reckon that should do it," Val said.
"You ready to head back?"
"I'm ready. You okay?" Johnny asked his
cousin.
"What? Oh, yes. Yes, I'm fine," he
stuttered and climbed on the wagon bench.
No more was said about the confrontation as the
three men headed back to Lancer. Once there, Val went over the barn with a
fine-toothed comb. He could find no evidence of arson, however. Still, he knew
as well as Johnny what had happened.
"Well, couldn't find nothin
but I don't reckon they'll be botherin ya again anyhow,"
Val reported, disgruntled.
"I won't bank on it," Johnny grumbled.
"What's it all about, Johnny?" Val asked.
"I don't know. But when Murdoch gets back, I
intend to find out," he said angrily.
Val said no more and left them to their repairs.
********
Two quiet weeks passed. Johnny spent the time
teaching Andrew to shoot and he was doing well.
When Murdoch and Scott got back the rancher noticed
it immediately, though it didn't surprise Johnny. Before his feet were on solid
ground, Murdoch asked.
"What happened to the barn?"
"Someone tried ta burn it to the ground is
what happened!" Jelly huffed.
"Johnny?"
"Jelly said it, Murdoch," the young man
shrugged.
"Who?"
"Them fools over ta
the Circle J," Jelly supplied.
"Russ Jackson?"
"No, Murdoch.
Murdoch started to ask then thought better of it.
"Was anyone hurt?"
"No, everyone's fine."
"Johnny? The horses?"
Scott spoke for the first time.
"I got 'em all out
except Peppermint,
Relief mixed with sadness adorned Scott's handsome
features. He smiled a little and patted his brother's shoulder.
"Shore he did. Purt
near got hisself kilt doin
it. If'n it weren't fer
Andrew here," Jelly blabbed.
"Do you have to tell everything you
know?" Johnny asked him in exasperation.
"Yes, he does. What happened, Jelly?"
Murdoch insisted.
"Well, he just took off right inta that fire! Just had ta get
them horses out. Andrew had ta go in after 'im."
"And I'd do it again, so there's no point in arguin about it. Besides, I have something more important
to talk to you about, Murdoch," Johnny retorted firmly.
*******
Johnny gave his father time to clean up and rest
first. But he was waiting impatiently when Murdoch finally descended the stairs
with Scott.
"I want to know what the problem between you
and Russ Jackson is, Murdoch," Johnny started right in.
"Johnny, it was a long time ago."
"It doesn't matter when I have to shoot his
son and his hands try to burn our barn down! Look, this is affecting the ranch
now and Scott and I have a right to know why."
"He's right, Murdoch. This is getting very
ugly," Scott agreed.
"Alright.
Like I said, it was a long time ago. Russ has carried this grudge for ten
years. He had another son, older than Tom. Jeff was independent. He didn't want
to be treated like the boss' son, which was exactly what was happening. Russ
made sure the hands treated him with kid gloves. Well, they had a huge argument
over it one day and Jeff left the ranch. He came here and asked for a
job."
Murdoch stopped as a look of grief washed over his
face. "He explained what happened and why. I thought if he worked here, he
could at least be close to his father. Maybe they could work things out. Two
weeks after I hired him, there was a stampede. Jeff was trampled to death. Russ
has never forgiven me for it."
There was a long silence after this, each man
absorbing the story. Scott could see the man's grief overwhelming him but for
ten years?
Johnny stood with his head bowed, a myriad of
thoughts running through his mind. He no longer despised Russ Jackson. He felt
sorry for the man in a way. Still, it was no excuse to be at war for ten years.
"Has he never talked to you about it,
Uncle?"
"No, Andrew. The only thing he's ever said was
that he'd get even with me. That was back when it happened. Since then, we've
not spoken at all until the day he came here before the drive."
"You don't think...." Andrew trailed off,
unwilling to give voice to the thought.
"Think what?" Johnny asked.
"That he would try to get even by
killing you or Scott?"
"A son for a son," Scott mumbled.
"No, I don't believe Russ is the kind of man
to do that. He hates me but he's not a murderer."
"What about his son?" Andrew asked.
Murdoch had no answer for that. Tom was young and
reckless and he got in a lot of fights.
Johnny sighed heavily, bringing attention to himself. He smiled slightly. "This isn't getting us
anywhere. There has to be something we can do about this, Murdoch. It can't go
on."
"I don't know what, son. The man won't talk to
me civilly."
"Maybe he'll talk to me," Scott said.
"Well, he hates my guts. It might be worth a
try," Johnny agreed.
******
Scott spent a few days getting his thoughts
together when they heard of the
He sent a note to the Circle J and waited. It could
very well be that Russ Jackson would ignore his request. That was not the case,
however. The hand who delivered his note returned with the reply.
Scott informed his father and brother and set off
at the designated time. Johnny was unsettled by Scott going alone but the older
man insisted. So, when Scott left, Johnny waited fifteen minutes and followed.
He knew the area and knew of a place he could stay hidden. Far enough away to
be unobtrusive, yet close enough to watch his
brother's back.
When Scott arrived,
"Mr. Jackson," Scott nodded.
"What do you want?" was the terse reply.
Scott held himself in check and resigned himself to
a tough road ahead. "How's Tom?"
"He'll be able to use his arm again,"
"That's good news."
"Is it?" the man snorted.
Scott sighed softly. "Mr. Jackson, I didn't
ask you here to argue."
"Why did you ask me here?"
******
Scott paced a way a bit before turning to face the
man again. "Murdoch told us why you hate him."
"No, he didn't. He didn't blame anyone."
"Of course not!
The great Murdoch Lancer can do no wrong!"
Much to his surprise, Scott laughed at this
statement.
"I'm sorry, sir, but that is ludicrous. My
point is that I can't imagine losing a child but Murdoch knows exactly what
it's like. He knows your pain. He was given a second chance that you will never
have and he knows how lucky he is."
"Are you willing to spend the rest of your
life hating? More importantly, are you willing to let your son? Tom is heading
down a painful road. The hatred he has inherited from you is going to get him
killed. Especially if he insists on calling my brother out.
Johnny won't back away again. Mr. Jackson, are you willing to lose your only
remaining son?"
"Tom adored Jeff. Followed him around like a
pup. He remembers his brother. Tell me, Scott. Would you allow the man who
killed your brother to live?"
"No, I would not. But, Murdoch didn't kill
Jeff. He gave him a job in the hopes that it would keep him close by you. In the hope that the two of you could mend the rift between you.
That chance was taken away from you by a horrible accident. But, Mr. Jackson,
it was an accident. Murdoch didn't start that stampede. It's one of the hazards
of ranching. You know that as well as anyone."
*******
Johnny watched from his hiding place as
"I've hated him for so long," he finally
spoke softly.
Scott took a big risk with his next statement.
"So did I. But, that was before I knew him.
Before I found out what kind of man he is. You knew Murdoch before this. Were you friends?"
"Then you know him as a fair man. A man who
would not deliberately do harm to another. Murdoch had no reason to see your
son hurt, did he?"
"No, he didn't,"
"Maybe it's time to let go of the pain, sir.
Maybe it's time to try living again. Try being a father to the son you do
have."
Scott considered this. "Explain it to him.
Tell him the truth, all of it. Tell him about how Jeff felt and the argument
that led to him leaving. Tell him why Murdoch hired Jeff. Make him understand
that his anger is ultimately only going to hurt him. Maybe even get him killed.
Use his shoulder wound as an example. Explain to him how much worse it could
have been. Then, tell him you can't lose another son."
His brow creased as he listened to Scott. He didn't
speak for a long moment. "You're a pretty bright young fella,"
"There is one more thing, Mr. Jackson."
"What's that?"
"Your ranch hands.
We're almost positive they set the barn fire. You need to get them under
control before there's a war," Scott said and this time, his voice was not
kind but firm.
"I'm certain he would," Scott smiled.
"Once I talk to Tom, I'll drop by."
Scott extended a hand and
*******
Scott watched as
"You can come out now," he called.
Johnny shook his head and smiled as he climbed from
behind the tree. "How'd you know?"
"I didn't for sure. It was an educated
guess."
"Yeah, well, bein so
educated, you could hardly miss, huh?" Johnny grinned. "Looks like
you got through to him."
"I think so. He wants to talk with Murdoch
after he talks to Tom."
"Think he'll get through to the kid?"
"I hope so, Johnny. If he doesn't, I hate to
think what might happen," Scott said somberly.
"I ain't walkin away
again, Scott," was his cold reply.
"That's exactly what I told
"Well, come on, brother. I'm sure Murdoch's
waiting for a report," Johnny smiled and threw an arm around his brother.
*********
They returned to the ranch together and filled
Murdoch in on the conversation. He was hopeful but reserved. It was Tom he
worried about, he explained. He felt the boy was a loose
cannon. Johnny could not have agreed more.
And so they went about the business of running a
ranch. The
They didn't have to wait long. Two days after
Scott's talk with Russ Jackson, Tom rode up to the Lancer hacienda and
dismounted. His right arm was still in a sling.
Johnny was walking out of the barn with Andrew when
he saw the young man. He pulled up, his shoulders tensing for a fraction of a
second. He relaxed immediately and sauntered over.
"Tom," he nodded.
"I wanna talk to
you," he said through clenched teeth.
"Alright," Johnny replied and waited.
Tom glanced at Andrew. "Alone."
Johnny nodded at his cousin who hesitated until
Johnny looked harder at him. Andrew sighed and walked inside, heading straight
for his uncle.
"I'm listening."
Tom stared at him for a minute before speaking.
"My old man seems ta think everything's alright with your old man
now."
"Good."
"Good? Ain't nothing
good about it!"
"Did your father tell you what happened with
Jeff?" Johnny asked.
"He told me some cock and bull story."
"But you don't believe it."
"Sounds ta me like that brother of yours did
some fancy talkin, is all."
Johnny nodded his head thoughtfully. "Don't
think too much of your old man, do ya?"
*******
Tom's face turned red with anger. "What's that
mean?"
"Well, if you think Scott could talk him into
believing a pack of lies, you must not give him much credit to think for
himself," Johnny shrugged.
The logic of the statement gave Tom pause. He
couldn't think of a quick comeback.
"Do you really think Murdoch hired your brother
then caused a stampede to kill him? That doesn't make any sense, Tom. Your old
man and mine were friends then. Why would Murdoch do that?"
"Maybe ..... maybe it
was Jeff that Lancer had a grudge against," Tom tried.
Johnny smiled a little. "A
grudge against an eighteen year old kid? Come on, even you can't believe
that. Besides, why would he bother to hire Jeff if that was the case?"
Tom turned and paced back and forth a little.
"You know what I think? I think you been mad
for so long, you don't know how to stop."
"You don't know nothin!"
Tom spat.
"Yeah, I do. A lot more than
you think. I know what it's like to live with hate all your life. I know
it'll eat you alive if you let it. Either that, or get you killed. You have to
let go of it, Tom. It's not an easy thing, but you have to. If you don't, it's
all you'll ever know." Johnny spoke softly to the young man. He seemed to
be listening.
Tom's shoulders sagged and he looked at Johnny with
sad eyes. "How can I let go of it? If Murdoch Lancer ain't to blame, that means ..... my pa is."
"What if no one is to blame, Tom? What if it
was just an accident? Stampedes ain't uncommon. It helps if you can point of
finger. Be able to look at a person and say he did this. But sometimes, there
is no one to blame. People make mistakes. Your father and brother didn't get
along. I know about that, too. Tom, it's time to let it go. Time
to live YOUR life."
********
Tom hung his head and closed his eyes. He felt so
tired and his arm ached. He rubbed it absently. Looking back at Johnny, he saw
him staring at the arm.
"Reckon I was pretty stupid to call you out
then try and backshoot you."
"Yeah, that was pretty stupid," Johnny
grinned.
"I’m sorry I called you names, too."
"Forget about it. All I want is for all this
fighting to be over."
Tom sighed heavily. "I don't think it's gonna be that easy. I mean, Steve and Pete got a mean
on for you, Johnny. They hate you."
A smile curved up his lips. "I can take care
of myself, Tom. As long as the whole Circle J crew isn't itchin
for a brawl, I think things will settle down."
"It's gonna be hard. I mean, I don't know what
I'm supposed to do without someone to be mad at," Tom said. A small smile
tugged at his lips.
Johnny laughed. "Want to come inside? Get a
cool drink?"
Tom bit his lip. "Don't think I'm ready for
that yet. Thanks, anyway. I .... I'm sorry."
"Nothing to be sorry about, Tom.
It's over, right?"
"Yeah, it's over. Feels kinda
good, ya know?"
"Yeah, I do know," Johnny smiled. He felt
a weight come off his shoulders as he watched Tom Jackson ride away. Maybe now
they could have a little peace and quiet.
Epilogue
Things settled down between the Lancers and Jacksons. Steve and Pete were fired and took off for parts
unknown. Russ and Murdoch had some long talks and Tom even came along a couple
of times. It wasn't instant friendship, but they were making progress. Small steps toward a lasting peace between them.
Teresa received regular letters from Ian.
Occasionally, he would write to Johnny as well. He reported on school and the
new friends he'd made. He talked about his studies and the city life he had
grown quite fond of.
Then, a letter arrived that shocked the Lancer
family to it's core. It wasn't from Ian but the
president of the college. Ian had been out with friends one night when a gang
of thugs assaulted them. The man reported that Ian fought bravely for his
friends but that, in the end, the young man had been felled by a knife.
He had been taken to the hospital and all that
could be done had been. But, unfortunately, he didn't survive.
Murdoch was stricken speechless by the news. He sat
at his desk for hours. Paper and pen at hand as he thought of
how to tell his brother that his son was dead. News he himself thought
he may receive so many times over the years.
Always for Johnny and then Scott, when he
was in the war. He thought about the last time he'd seen
Ian as he and Scott left for home. The boy seemed happy, excited to begin this
new journey in his life.
Johnny was devastated. He locked himself in his
room for two days. He felt it was his fault for encouraging Ian. He should have
left well enough alone. Should have sent the boy back home to
his family. A family that would never see their son
again.
Scott tried to reach his brother but Johnny
wouldn't let him in. He focused his attention on Andrew in the meantime. The
young man was grieving terribly. He had known Ian all his life. They were
friends as well as cousins.
It was decided that Ian's body would be brought
back to Lancer for burial. Murdoch made the arrangements in a daze. Later, he
wouldn't even remember doing it.
Johnny came out of his room on the third day only
to saddle Barranca and take off. He returned late in the night and headed to
his room.
"Are you ready to talk to me?" Scott
asked from the darkness.
"Nothin to
say," Johnny whispered.
Scott lit a lamp but kept the light low. The sound
of Johnny's voice told him his brother had been grieving.
"He wanted to go. He was happy. His letters
were full of promise."
"Don't, Scott. I encouraged him. It was my
idea for him to go there."
"Johnny, you said yourself it was his
decision. Can you honestly tell me he would have gone if he hadn't wanted
to?"
"He came here when he didn't want to because
his old man made him."
"And he was quite adamant about staying in
"He was just a kid, Scott," Johnny
whispered in a trembling voice.
Scott walked over and wrapped an arm around
Johnny's shoulders, pulling him in closer. "I know, brother. It's a waste.
A senseless waste. But, Johnny, he was happy. Right up
to that moment, he was happy. Can you say he was that happy in
Johnny turned into his brother's embrace. He laid
his head on Scott's shoulder. "I'm so tired."
Scott eased him onto the bed and lifted his legs to
the mattress. He removed Johnny's boots and covered him with a thick quilt.
Sitting beside his brother, Scott smiled down at him. "Try to sleep
some."
Ian was laid to rest on Lancer land. Murdoch wrote
the letter that ripped out his heart. His only solace was Blane had Duncan and
the rest of the family there to comfort he and Lorna.
As they stood beside the grave, Murdoch's hand slid
onto Johnny's shoulder. It was the first time either had made contact with the
other since receiving the news of Ian's death. Johnny was sure Murdoch blamed
him as well.
But that hand gripped firmly to his son and Johnny
felt the pain in his father. He slipped his arm around Murdoch's waist and
together, they walked back to the surrey. Scott was standing on the opposite
side of Murdoch and he fell into place as they all turned away. His arm went
around Murdoch and grasped Johnny's arm as they walked.
Andrew sat in the surrey looking out over the land.
Scott slid in beside him and squeezed his arm. He received a sad smile for his
efforts.
Time passed and the routine of the ranch returned
to normal. But every now and then, Johnny or Andrew, Scott or Murdoch, would
take a little ride alone. Sometimes, together, and remember their fallen family
member.
Johnny wrote a long letter to his Uncle Blane. In
it, he described the wonderful young man he'd come to know. It gave great
comfort to Blane to know his son had made such an impression. He received other
letters as well. From Scott and Andrew. All extolling Ian's sweet nature. Even Teresa got up the
courage to write and tell Blane of her friendship with his son.
They began to heal from this deep wound. But none
of them would ever forget the bright young man who had graced their home for
such a short time.
THE END
winj
2004