The Trade!, PT.10,Conclusion

                                                                PT.10

                                                                                          The Trade!

                                                                                        Conclusion

In the upstairs room at the Long Branch, Doc… now very drained and exhausted,… Sat back quietly amazed,… But too tired to make sense of this … There was no heartbeat,…he said to himself…  How could this happen?   Doc?... resting her hand on his shoulder,.. Ma’ ? …   is something wrong?  Oh No,.. Why don’t you go….get some sleep I’ll stay with her… you need your rest… wiping his upper lip… Ma’       I just don’t understand … How could I …. Shhhhhh! It ok … go … go rest  I send for you if I need to…

Matt, Kitty and Festus’ made there way back to the cabin…. As they entered ,.. still passed out on the table , was Victor,.. paid sidekick … Festus’ Tie him up …  then we can see to Bousselot’…                   sheeh, Matthew… what ‘a we  do fur him out here?     Festus’ he’s going to Jail!  If I have to drag him there personally….. turning to Kitty… Here let’s get you by the fire… adding another log… Look Cowboy … I’m gonna be fine … I’ll warm up….  He began taking off his coat,.. to wrap it around her ,.. OH, Matt! What? Looking at her surprised.   What did you do ?... your bleeding!   Come here .. let me see that ?  Kit it’s ok …just pulled something….but she insisted,.. Don’t argue with me….reaching for his shirt…this is exactly what I was worried about… you’ve opened the stitches….    Let me try and clean this up for you.. Cowboy.    Matt knew better than to argue with her … when it come to this….

Matthew ,.. In the barn… there’a wagon… and horses… mebe it will make it through the snow….?         That’s good …. I don’t want Kitty riding …   Festus’ managed to hook up the horses.. with the rig in the barn.. they placed Victor in the back ….  Not sure if he ‘d last the ride to Dodge…. His friend,.. Festus’ tied to Victor’s horse… Kitty you ok to travel…or would you rather wait till morning ,.. Cowboy it is practically morning now. where is you cloak…. Don’t think I had it Matt?    You telling me they brought you out here with nothing….?  I guess …I was un-conscience … didn’t come to till I was already here… I barely remember ... what happened…. Ok… Matt had a second coat in his pack… he put it on Kitty… and wrapped her in the blanket as well….

Riding along,… Kitty looked over at Matt,… Cowboy?... I think I need to explain what happened here shaking his head,..  don’t have too,.. Sam, Doc and Franny filled me in some ….  She could tell there was something he wasn’t saying: Cowboy .. what is it?... Nothing!... Matt Dillon … I know you …and…..        Kit, Bousselot’ could have killed you out there …..   Cowboy,.. now she stopped riding…                          “Matt, I had to ,…well I just had to help Franny…He …He would have killed her…..and as her friend what was I to do?”

Matt, I didn’t know he would go this far….. But I know your right,… I’m sorry Cowboy!                                           Kitty sometimes I think you ,… think with your Heart…. Without thinking of the consequences!          When he turned back to look at her,.. there was no way he could be upset … her look had softened… and those sapphire Blue Eyes ,… we enough to melt him even in the snow!

Once they reached Dodge …, Festus’ Victor.. to Doc’s office… he was barely alive….. Matt lock up his friend who was so drunk,.. he didn’t know what was happening…  Then,… as kitty made her way to the Long Branch,.. Kit,.. I’ll check on you when I’m done here .. will you be ok?   Nodding her head,.. yeah … go on .. see you when your done…..

Sam was behind the Bar,.. Miss Kitty!   … Hi Sam…. Quickly her run over … are you… trowing up a hand … I’m Ok.    The Marshal?    He’s over in the office .. handling … she just dropped her head…. Sam ..I’ll be up in My room… and she headed for the stairs… Oh, Sam ?... yes Miss Kitty….. Franny is she alright … they didn’t find her ?    Sam Smiled… No Ma’am… but I think she’ll want to see you …                                                  

Crossing the landing,… Franny’s door opened,…. Miss Kitty?  Kitty looked surprised to see Ma’ standing there…. Ma’ what are you doing here … Oh,.. I was helping Doc with Your friend… Hearing Kitty’s voice,.. Kitty  is that you?    Walking into Franny’s room… Yes , Honey ..it me… Kitty stopped in her tracks…                     she couldn’t believe her eyes… Franny was lying in the bed… holding her new born baby Daughter! Franny!... what?…..Come .. I want you to see …. Shaking her head to clear her mind… Franny I don’t understand….. I know … neither do I … Doc says she’s a miracle!... wait!... how long was I gone?   Well I see you made it back Young lady?... Doc was walking in behind Kitty…. Doc!... she hugged him tightly.  Still confused,… Doc,… Franny , The Baby?  Tugging on his ear,.. well… it seems that Miss Franny here was a bit more pregnant then she thought….Oh My Heavens… Is she… are you alright?    Worn out and tired maybe … but yes….    Now I want you to rest… then he sat down,… along side  her…. I ‘ll check on you later .. then looked at Kitty,.. you follow me… I want to see if your ok?   Doc I’m Fine.. just cold and tired…. I’m the Doctor …    Curly,.. I’m to tired to argue….

He check Kitty over …, Oh, Doc … when you see Matt,… he opened up his stitches… I cleaned it up as much as I could.. But…. Nodding ,. I’ll take care of it … He didn’t seem his self to kitty… Curly?... want to talk?... about?...whatever has you so pre-occupied.     Please?    I can tell .. I know you as well as I know Matt… he sat back in the chair in her room… Kitty I did the Most awful thing…. Oh Curly…. When I was taking care of Franny … she started to Bleed … and had awful pain… I mis- judged ..    then he fell silent…. What Curly? … tell me… Well I couldn’t hear a Heartbeat.. for the Baby… I told her the baby had to come out .. that it was Stillborn!  She was devastated….  Oh Curly?    You thought…. Swiping his Mustache… Kitty it was a miracle ... after I delivered her …. She struggled for a bit but then… for some unknown reason…   It’s like Franny said.. It’s just a Miracle .. “A Miracle “    Kitty put her hands on his shoulders … the leaned down and wrapped her arms around him…..

After resting and getting freshened up… Kitty knocked Franny’s door, Come in… she replied…. Kitty! Sitting beside her bed,.. Franny Doc told me what happened…. Oh Kitty … I could hardly believe it myself… I thought my baby was gone…. But then.. Kitty smiled looking at the tiny bundle in her arms… do you want to hold her ...? Of course I do… she said wearing a big smile…. Kitty pulled back the soft cover.. Ma’ had brought for her….. OH Fran,..  she is beautiful!... so tiny… Kitty ,. If you don’t mind…?   Not looking up for the tiny delicate baby in her arms.. yes?   I’d like to call her Kathleen?          Really? ... of course…   Kitty after all you’ve done and risked for me…. It’s what I want…. Kitty looked at the small infant,… Hello Kathleen!  

Later matt came over to check on Kitty … Sam directed him to Franny’s room… Knocking,.. he heard them talking… Come in… Hello Marshal!   Matt was as shocked as Kitty was…. Did I miss something here?    Oh , Cowboy we both did ….Matt come look at her … she beautiful!     Kitty handed the baby to Matt… wow,.. she’s tiny…   puffing out a breath of air,.. This makes what I have to say harder…               Please Matt what is it?   She asked him.  Franny ,. I’m afraid ,.. Victor … is Dead!   She just lowered her head and closed her eyes…. How… ? well he was shot,.. you? Nodding … Yes I’m sorry …  No Matt… don’t be .. this would have happen sometime … if not now….then… she just stopped her train of thought.  Matt what about the other Man?.. Kitty asked. He’ll go to trail.. than to jail for Kidnapping..                                                            

Franny, remained at Kitty’s till she gained her strength,.. then.. while she was there .. she had written a letter to her Parents.. back in New Orleans,.. explaining most of what took place,.. they wanted her to return home … to be with them .. in what they considered to be her time of Mourning!...

As soon as she got back enough strength … Matt and Kitty as well as Doc,.. saw her off at the train…hugging Matt Doc Festus’ and even Sam,.. Thank You All for everything…. Then she stood in front of Kitty,… Kitty Russell ,.. Thank You doesn’t seem to be enough … We’ll never forget you you know?      Of course you won’t ,,.. you’ll be seeing me often… so I can see both you and Kathleen! She reached out and hugged her …   You are the best friend anyone could have…. All Aboard!... the conductor yelled out….  She stepped up on the train… holding Kathleen… and waving as the train pulled out…..

Several week went by … most things went back to normal … Victor’s friend … Named Harry  Barker,.. was  tried and convicted of kidnapping .. and sentence to 8 yrs. In  prison… Victor’s family had him shipped back to France for a proper burial….

Matt and Kitty settled back into their routine….

It was closing time when Matt stopped his last Stop,… Sam, Kitty in her office?... no Marshal .. her room…   think she’s waiting to talk to you… I was just leaving… Night Sam.. Night Marshal…

Climbing the stairs and crossing the landing…. Tapping lightly on her door… Come in Cowboy….                 Slowly opening the door … Kitty was nowhere in sight… Kit … the room was dim.. candles  lit all around the room… “Hello Cowboy”,.. she said as she came out of the water room… To his surprise .. in a Blue Satin Night Gown… Her shoulders exposed… Her hair falling down her back… Kit, Honey You Look … Uh Uh!..  walking towards him running her hands across his chest…. Uh Uh… Shhh, No words Cowboy… Show Me!.. Show you?  ,,, uh huh… Show me what you think…..without another thought.. he pulled her into his arms… Kissing her passionately…. Ahhh Kit was all he could mutter out …     Cowboy ?.. huh? Was all he utter while still wanting to continue his Kiss… I want you!  Honey, you have me…..No,… I want you to Make Love to me…..Yes Ma’am you don’t have to ask twice…. Scooping her up into his arms… Cowboy be careful ... you’ll hurt yourself… Nope Not a chance!

Placing her gently.. in the center of the Hugh  Brass Bed.. slipping the Gown down and off her  Body,…Gosh Kit ,you are Beautiful… !  smothering  her in Kisses … carefully placing his hands under her full soft Breast.. licking the nipple slowly… then drawing them one at a time into his mouth…. UUMMMMMM!    As he slowly work his way down her full curves….Kissing and Licking all her pleasure points…. Till she was about to lose control….Matt!... she in a rapid pace… pushing the clothes off his body  Cowboy I need you .. Now!   I want to feel you inside me … deep inside me Show me how much I’m Yours!    Matt gladly without hesitation… slid up and over her now damp and  heated Body … moving up slowly to enter at the cleft of her parted legs … slipping in and feeling a wet Hot reception….           Ahh  Honey .. I’ve Miss this ,.. Missed You!....Both in a frenzy of uncontrollable passion .. and need for one another … rocking in Rhythm … Molding themselves to the other … as if One!    Then, exploding ecstasy ... and Bliss!   …  repeated this Over and Over through-out the night…               

Lying spent,..  wrapped in one another,… with her face snuggled  in his chest.. he whispered… Kit ,  Honey ,out there … I would have TRADED.. My Life and all I have and Am, for you ….and make sure you are here with me always..    I Love You Kitty Russell…! And I Love You! Matt Dillon… snuggling   tighter…                                                                                                                                             Good Night Honey!, Good Night Cowboy!

                                                                                                FINI

The Trade!,PT.9

                                                PT.9

                                                                                         The Trade!

Festus’ had left the Froman   Farm,.. and continued to try and follow tracks,.. not much luck  the fresh fallen snow covered whatever may have been there…but he continued riding …

As Matt drew closer to where he thought he heard , the scream… he heard an animal sound,… but couldn’t see anything….so chose to ignore it.. and follow the scream ….

As he rode closer,… he could see two figures wrestling,,.. in the snow,… what appeared to be  Men fighting…then again a scream,.. this time he could tell it was a woman.    but  he could hear better what was going on….   “ Let go of me you maniac!”,… now he realized ..the voice,.. was Kitty!     As she was running towards what looked like a trail,.. she was stopped by a large horse… with a rider…. It’s you!   She said now getting even angrier then she already was….. You are the one behind this ?.. This is kidnapping!    He dismounted the horse,.. Kitty tried to run,… but he caught her… wrapping both arms around her upper body,… Just stop your hysterics….!.. you’ re not going anywhere!... Kitty continued to fight … tripping him …now they both were rolling in the snow… she was so enraged…. She didn’t even pay any mind to how cold she was….”Get your hands off me “!  Kicking a Hitting him,… you won’t get away with this,...People will be looking for me… AND….. When Matt Dillon find out I’m gone ,..  and Who might that be …?  Only The United States Marshal in Dodge!   They were still wrestling .. … she was still  she tried to free herself… but stopped sudden ,.. when he pull a Gun,.. and had it pointed at her head….. well now!... I see that took the wild out of you didn’t it….?       Why? … Why did you have that … That …UGH!  Take me?    Or was it you? ..... truthfully, ... he doesn’t look that smart!   Kitty had a tendency to get sarcastic … when in tight situation…   Now just turn around and head back that way … you really shouldn’t be out here in the God awful weather,… huffing out a breath,.. as if you’re concerned?   Yes, The trade won’t do me much good if you’re Froze..in the snow!       Trade?  What Trade?    For what?    It’s simple… My Francine!...      he tried forcing her to climb onto the horse… but she fought him…. Then as he clicked the hammer back… it was now behind her ear….Alright! Alright … but then a second click…. Bousselot’!     Let her go!..  Kitty heard the voice and exhaled a sigh of relief,… Matt!... It’s ok Kitty ….but Victor turned fast … just as the wind blew up snow dust … pulling Kitty in front of him… with the gun at her head,….drop it !.. or I’ll kill her !  No he won’t Matt … as he said he needs me… alive….!.. Shut up woman ,.. Victor yelled at her…   with her temper flaring… you shoot me … there won’t be a trade… you’ll never know where Franny is!     Bousselot’ ,.. she’s right !... Matt noticed movement in the trees behind them… Kitty heard it too….  Matt , there’s another one .. in the cabin… just over that way.. .. Passed out drunk!  After struggling a bit more .. Kitty lifted her foot… as if she were shifting…. And dug her boot heel into Victor’s  shin!   As he loosened his grip… she ducked and shots rang out…   dropping Victor to the ground … kitty kicked away the gun he dropped… Running towards Matt.

Matthew’,.. Matthew …from out of the trees … Festus’ …was looking on… as Kitty ran to Matt embrace! Festus’ what in the world were you doing out here…? Kitty asked.   I’m ‘a track behind this here Yahoo,.. to find you Miz Kitty! She just shook her head in disbelief.       Festus’ leaned down,.. placing his fingers at Victor’s throat… he’s alive Matthew  but not sure fur how long?   Matt grabbed the blanket off Buck and wrapped kitty in it … then , with his arm around her… Kitty, you alright?  Shaking her head,… Yeah,… Yeah I am Now Cowboy!     Let’s get you out of this cold….

                                                                                                TBC

               

The Trade!,PT.8

                                                                PT.8

                                                                                         The Trade!

Cold and exhausted, but trying to forge on,... following what track that were still visible… Buck was having difficulty, trotting thru…. Even   more so with the weight of his large  rider…   The Pain, in his upper chest, and side.. from his wounds ,.. were becoming strong.. and The whipping cold winds ..added to his task at hand … but he refused to stop!

Festus’ had come upon a farm house , small but he could see smoke from the chimney …Maybe a chance to get out of the cold … and regroup?   As he approached , the door opened ,.. and standing in the opening was a rather big man … yielding a double barreled shot gun… Who’s there?  This here is private property!... as Festus’ came closer,… now able to get a full view at the man holding the Gun… Howdy Mister!  Names Festus’ ,… Festus’ Hagen,.. I’m a U-nited States Dep-idy.. from Dodge ….I’d be mighty oblidged,.. for the chance to warm up a bit …ya’ see Im’a out searching fur a Lady friend …..some ya-hoo’s done kidnapped her… Deputy you say?... the man looked suspiciously.     Thats ‘a right … then, showed his Badge, on his cost.       Ok, get on down from there… some hot coffee on inside … Festus’ dismounted from Ruth…Taking him to their barn,… that the man pointed to ….just this way… some feed in there if you’re in need….

Sitting in front of the fire warming himself,… a rather small woman ,.. handed him a hot cup of coffee…   I thank ya’ Ma’am,.. your’a welcome…. Names Betsy… and this here is my husband,…  Caleb,.. Caleb Froman….  Glad ta’ know ya’ folks….   Still leary, Caleb Froman found a seat next to Festus’…. Friend was kidnapped you say?     Sur de’ was …. Miz Kitty is a real good friend,…  like my own family..ya’ see…  know who you be lookin ‘ fur? Do ya’?    I be followin’ them Yahoos’ track … they left behind in the snow…  Sam… thinks it be sum husband of Miss Franny’s … She be a friend to Miz Kitty… But Miz Franny is ailing sum awful!    This yahoo done beat on her lik’ a whipping post… and now that poor lil’ bitty baby Doc’ says Might die …Ya’ see…?     Not sure I understand Mister Hagen?...  Betsy asked. As she refilled Festus’ cup… well Ma’am ,.. this here fancy feller’,.. wants to drag this here Miss Franny off .. and Miz Kitty was’a  tryin’ ta’ help her… I’a  figur’ they only had mebe,.. a few hours on me … so I figur’ they mebe be hidin’ on out this here’a a way… listening intently,.. rubbing his thumb and forefinger along his chin… Hummmmm ,… well they be a ol’ cabin,.. up over the hill a few miles…  no body’s been there for oh, 5 years or so … !     This woman,.. this Miz Kitty you speak of … she someone important is she?     Why , I done told ya’ Mister,.. Miz Kitty’s my friend….   When Ol’ Matthew git’s Back from Fort Dodge .. before he could finish,.. caleb . said, Ol’ Matthew?...Fort Dodge?    Ahh shhheese, Matthew is the Marshal in Dodge!  And Miz Kitty is real portant to him… she his woman?   Now caleb!.. that’s none of our affair….   Well...you can bed down if ya’ like .. I can make you a mat .. by the fire if ya ‘ like Mister Hagen…. Then you can head out first light… Betsy Froman ,.. offered.   Much oblidged  Ma’am,.. but don’t want them Yahoos git more time…   as you wish !.. Betsy answered. Well ya’ stay as long as ya’ need… can’t havin’ ya freeze ta’ your death….

Matt, decided he had to stop briefly,… needing to stretch his legs and find water for Buck…..

Kitty was exhausted,… but didn’t want to take her eyes off her captor…. Besides he was now working on his second bottle of whiskey… Kitty knew Men,…  and  deffinately Men who drank this heavily… it wouldn’t be long before he’d be passed out….

It was late,.. darker then ,. .. without the lamp on Front Street,.. usually shining thru her window…   when she peered out the small window of the cabin,.. the Moon was only crescent,.. but it was beginning to make the snow on the ground glow,… this was a plus….. after about another hour … she watch his head  hit the table…..  Just as I thought,… she thought to herself… Finally!     She grabbed the wool blanket that was  in the box by the fireplace,.. wrapping it around her shoulders,.. then , slowly ,.. practically on her toes…made her way to the front door … trying it to see if she could open it without any noise….turning the knob,… she found it to be unlocked…. Relieved… she slid out quietly… the wind was whipping so that it stung her face .. it was hard to walk … the snow was getting deeper…. She shivered… realizing …how difficult this would be knowing the wool blanket was all she had to keep her warm….but, decided to make a run for it …… she noticed what looked like a trail… and headed for it … struggling to stand ,never mind run…? the Moon wasn’t as much light as she thought it be…..but she continued to look for which way to go ….she didn’t even know if she was still in Kansas…

After a short  rest,.. Matt remounted Buck … with difficulty… Buck was a good strong and loyal Horse… as Matt rode,…  he was remembering what Franny had told him,.. and wondering .. if Kitty was safe.. if this Bousselot’ character,  would just hold her as  trade to get to Franny or ……… He didn’t want to think of the Or!

Just as he rode up over the hill before him…. He could see smoke coming from a chimney , up ahead… but, not much else!    Figuring at least maybe, who ever lived here would extend him the hospitality of a warm spot by the fire ... and maybe coffee?      But, out of the silence… came a scream!... Matt tried to listen,… to follow the direction from which it came… it was off in the distance ………

                                                                                                TBC

The Trade!,PT.7

                                                                                PT. 7

                                                                                        The Trade!

Sitting in a chair beside   the Bed of this frail ,paling woman .. Doc was now concern that he wasn’t going to be able to help her much more … he’d hoped  she would sleep … this would be the best thing to rebuild her strength.  Doc was surprised, that given all the bruising to her tiny body that he wasn’t treating broken bones… What concerned him even more was the baby she was carrying… The heartbeat was faint,..  he didn’t know if she had  any proper treatment .. and if she was getting proper nourishment?

Doc had decided to stay vigil at her side ,… occasionally fall off to sleep ,reading a book…

Being awakened but the loud scream… Franny , Franny ,.. now, I’m right here, what is it?   UGH! Doctor , The pain!... it’s excruciating !... where does it hurt?  Now holding her hands across the Bump ….Here ,all over here!  Tears of pain were taking over and making it difficult to speak… Ok, Now I want you to listen to me … I’m going to check you … and see what’s happening…Doc hadn’t realized just how pregnant she was….appearently,… she just carried very small… but then again.. with the torment she had endured….she was neglected.

Kitty was trying her best to stay awake,.. and take in her surroundings…. This rather scruffy looking Man who was watching over… didn’t seem to be violent… but then again ... he was holding her captive!      She tried keeping  an eye on his every move …. Hey! Red ,.. you hungry?  Thinking she wouldn’t rail him.. I guess I’m am…   come’  .. sit here with me,.. have some of this grub..  I’m not a cook ,but it won’t kill ya’ Kitty was getting hungry ,… so she did … then feeling out the situation,… So, You gonna tell me why I’m here ?  I know it not for the companionship , over supper! She said with a sarcastic smirk.            Ol’ Fancy Man has plans fur ya’… you’ll see !        you can tell me .. It’s not like I’m going anywhere!                  Besides  who Ol’ Fancy man?  Oh, he hired me to watch over you…getting a bit annoyed … Look if it’s Money you want? ….  Nah!.. he has all the Money he needs … and then some!   Then What?...Damn it!   Oh, oh, oh,.. your are a feisty one ain’t ya’?  you  know somebody will be looking for me?     We know… ! he said laughing.  Look what is it you want with me?  She was getting angry,.. Who is this … trying to not blow her temper,… So called Fancy man?   Mister. B  ...   Mister B?  she repeated.   And am I supposed to know this Mister B?     Meybe…  Look what are you planning on doing with me?  When marshal Dillon finds out I’m gone.. he won’t stop till he hunts you down ,.. you and your Fancy man … Mister B!       Ahhh, Yur jest the Bait!,..  but, meybe will just have our self some fun wit ya’?   reaching over to touch her arm.   Pulling away in a jerking motion,.. Keep your hands off me,… I’ll scratch your eyes out!   Ewwww,  I like ‘um wild….. !     Kitty quickly got up from the table…..slowly scanning the room ,trying to figure if she had a chance in Hell of getting out.  Her captor, sat drinking a bottle of whiskey,.. sitting at the table … whittling a piece of wood… Kitty stayed close to the fire,.. to keep warm ..   she sat back … thinking quietly to herself,… Oh , Cowboy… I hope your back and looking for me?   Please?                                  

Doc, examined Franny… he tried to keep the sarrowed look from his face.. she was dozing between pains.  But he knew he’d have to tell her … he had to remove this baby…..problem  was … it was now a stillborn…  this woman had already endured so much … but, losing a child … well that was….                             

She began to stir again,… Doc had sent Sam to his office to get him some supplies,… and  sent for Ma’ Smalley….  This was going to take a while….  Hello Dear ,.. I’m Ma’  Ma’ Smalley … folks just call me Ma’… now you just be still … and Doctor Adams here will do his best to keep you comfortable …                      Then after setting up all he needed… Doc quietly sat beside Franny… took her hand in his….        Now Franny , There something I need to talk with you about,… Franny this baby of yours needs to come out …. Furrowing her brow,… But Doctor Adams,.. it’s not my time…  Patting her hand,… Franny,…I’m sorry , but …The injuries to your body … have…. Doc took a breath… then in that moment,… she reached for her stomach,.. My Baby….? My Baby is gone?    I’m very very  sorry , but I’m afraid so….  She covered her face with both hands .. and began to cry … Ma’ sat on the opposite side of the bed,.. now now dear… you’ll be alright… Doctor Adams will take good care of you…she reached up and hugged Ma’ tightly… then in her soft crying voice,… I wish Kitty were here!...    I know dear I know…..

Ok now … your going to have to help here… nodding,… What do I need to do?... sniffling ..   I’ll talk you through this… OK?     Franny just nodded.

Matt was riding , harder then he wanted to ,but … Kitty was out there and he needed to get to her …      it was dark, and difficult to see … especially with the Snow Glare… but good thing was ,there hadn’t been to many tracks … which made it easy to follow ….he was hoping to catch up with Festus’ or that Festus’ had found where Kitty was?   

Sam was getting ready to close up,..  business  was slow,.. then as he was turning up some chairs…          he turned to find Victor Blosselot’ stand behind him…. Barkeep?   Sam inhaled, then said … we’re closing!  And you are not welcome here.      My Dear Man !….  Now Sam was Wishing Matt or Festus’ were in Dodge….   I just need a bottle… I told you we’re closed.. and you are not welcome….       Bousselot’ really wanted to see what anyone knew … feel things out a bit.     You’d best Leave,… when the Marshal, finds you and whoever you have doing your dirty work … you’ll be sorry!  Dirty work?  You say… Not dirty work … just business my dear man!    I always get what I want!    Miss Russell , can’t keep me from What is Mine … not for Long,… and if you all want to see her alive… again.. you will cooperate! You know what I want….. When I get Francine back…. Well then… the Trade will be made!….. Sam , losing his temper at the thought of him hurting  kitty in one fell swoop… grab Bousselot’ by the neck,… if you hurt one hair on her head.. I’ll…      now  grabbing Sam’s hands and trying to push him off...You’ll do What?... take your hands off me  Sir!  Sam shoved him through the Batwing doors….. landing him in the snow… standing brushing himself off … you’ll be sorry for that .. you just wait!

Doc came to the landing,.. Sam .. what is all the noise…?  Sorry Doc,.. just threw out a bum!    Then under his breath he said… a Bum in Fancy  clothes!   Sam quickly told Newly about Bousselot’ … and that he had just been there…. Boasting about Kitty and that he had her……I’ll handle this Sam!  And Newly began searching for him…..

                                                                                                TBC

The Trade!,PT.6

                                PT.6

                                                                                        The Trade!

Festus’ had spotted track marks in the alley between The Long Branch and Doc’s Office… fresh in the new fallen Snow… looked as though a wagon had been pulled in…                                                                                          He quickly , threw some things together and jumped up on Ruth , figuring they couldn’t have had     much of a lead on him, a few hours or so .. but, if anyone could track them it was Festus’.

Later that Night , Front street was quiet and somber,… as usual Matt’s  first instinct was to fix his gaze on the window in the second floor of the Long Branch…. Looking for his beacon home , Home to Kitty!  After the last day or so, all he wanted to do now was wrap himself in the arms of the Woman that after all this years,...makes his heart race. He knew Kitty was upset and mostly concerned about him riding out to Fort Dodge , so soon after Doc patched him up again for the um-teenth  time.

When he saw there was no light burning in the window ,… his chest tightened.  And a small knot rose in his throat.  Saying to himself , I know she didn’t want me to go , but all in all ..she understood , I was in no danger, and that I’d be back today.     He pulled Buck up to the front of the Long Branch…dismounted quickly, dis-reguarding the discomfort, he was feeling.  

Standing looking over the batwing doors,.. eyes scanning the room… Most of the customers had gone ,due to the weather…  Sam was washing glasses behind the Bar….pushing thru the doors,…. Sam?    Ahhh Marshal am I glad to see you !  Marshal it’s Miss Kitty,… something happened here …What Happened Sam?  We’re not really sure ,… best we can figure they took her ?   Took Her ? he repeated.  Sam , Maybe you’d better start from the beginning…. Yeah your right … Let me get you a drink…              then sitting the glass down in front of Matt, and pulling up a chair to sit down with him,… Sam, took a deep breath,… than began…

Well Marshal,…. Doc came by this morning to join Miss Kitty for breakfast,.. and she hadn’t come down as yet… so while he waited for her ,… he decided to check on Miss Franny.. and found her at the top of the landing just outside Miss Kitty’s room,.. and Miss Kitty’s door was open slightly… Doc yelled for me and Miss Kitty,.. but when we looked into the room ,,, ah Marshal it was a Mess!   And all Miss Franny could say to us is Help her , Please, I tried to …. Then she passed out!   Festus’ found some tracks out in the alley.. and rode off to track them down….Wait , wait Who is they ?and Who is Miss Franny? Matt asked , now very confused.   Well Marshal that’s just the thing,.. we’ Don’t know for sure.?  Ok, Sam …back up here .. try starting with this Miss Franny…. Who is she ?   Oh, sorry Marshal.. Miss Franny ..she’s a old friend of Miss Kitty .. she said from her childhood…she came in on the stage just after you left…Miss kitty got a surprise  wire… Ok, Matt said . go on… why do you think this is connected to Kitty being gone?…. Oh, because of the note!    The Note? Matt questioned.   Yes I think I still have it …just a minute,.. Sam went behind the Bar and pulled the Note that was left on Kitty’s bed .. from a drawer. Then returned to the table and handed it to Matt… Matt sat and read the words ….focusing on …      “The redheads Life depends on your Cooperation!”  Then the Words “Trade , The redhead for Francine”

Sam, where is this Franny or Francine now?  Oh, she upstairs ,.. Doc’s tending to her.  Why?  Miss Franny , was in a bad way… I don’t know exactly what was wrong ,.. but Miss Kitty and Doc were pretty tight-lipped about it.   Matt had an uneasy feeling about this,.. Doc still with her.?. Yes, yes Marshal… third door … Matt slowly tried climbing the stairs.. till he reached the door Sam had pointed out.   Looking back,… Sam?.. Yes Marshal?  Thanks!   Then turned and tapped lightly on the door …. After a minute Doc opened the Door ,… Oh, am I glad to see you !?Doc Sam filled me in a bit… This Franny …. Can I talk to her….tugging on his ear and wiping his upper lip,… Now Matt, she pretty weak, and sedated..  DOC!  I need to talk to her … Oh Alright but go easy.. she not well.   Doc understood Matt need to figure what the connection was between   Franny and Kitty being missing.   Matt gently sat in the chair beside Franny’s Bed,… Miss Fran… she slowly opened her eyes…. Smiling lightly… you must be Matt , Matt Dillon,… your just as Kitty described you….  Franny ,.. I understand your not well just now but, I need to ask you some questions… do you think you can talk ..?    nodding ..go on….   Now Sam tells me when they found you ,.. you said something ..like Help Her Please?... You tried?  Can you tell me more?                   Nodding again,… in a weak and strained voice, I thought I’d heard a noise coming from Kitty’s room,…so I started to go and check ,.. but then ..just as I knocked and entered… I saw this Man .. carrying Kitty out the door … I yelled for him to stop,.. but then everything began to swirl and then I don’t remember much till I woke here.    Ok,… then,.. do you know who the Man was? Couldn’t see his face she said.  Now Franny , is there any reason someone would be after you?... Franny’s eyes widened.   The in a crackling voice,… with tears trickling down her cheeks…. I’m afraid so !... But ,… What does that have to do with Kitty?   Well, Matt added. Seems whoever took Kitty .. really wants you…    how do you know that?   They left a Note ,.. they took Kitty to trade for you.   Now in full fledge tears… OH NO!    what have I done?    Matt… I think that’s enough? Doc interrupted .  Doc!.. it’s Kitty out there!                   You be Lug ,.. don’t you think I know that…? But this is one sick young lady!  Just tell me this …Who is it?.. who’s after you?... through her tears .. and sniffling… Victor!.... Matt now rolling his eyes ..at another name he didn’t know.  Victor ?..He repeated.   Yes,..  Victor My Husband.     But why would he come here  and take Kitty … and leave you?    If he’s using her for trade?    Oh, He doesn’t know I’m here.  See ,..she wiped her cheeks., I came here to get away from him… Doc jumped in , Matt this animal abused her ..very much.   See, Kitty and I have been friends since … well Forever!... when I told her what had happened…. She agreed to let me hide here till I could figure what to do…. I’m so sorry!    Do you know where I can find your Husband?   Last I saw him was in New Orleans.  Then she went on to describe him to Matt,..  when Sam ..happened to over-hear her…He Remembered the Man Kitty threw out of the Long Branch… Excuse me? Marshal ,Doc … Miss Franny…   you said your husband’s name was Victor,?... Yes Sam… Victor Bousselot’    Oh, Marshal …. He was here !…. He was here? Franny asked.   Yes,.. Marshal he’s the Man Miss Kitty threw out of the Saloon. He was quite Obnoxious.. to her.   He was berating.. and insulting… now shaking his head,.. and puffing out a breath… Let me Guess … Kitty’s temper?       Sam….  for a moment Smiled a bit at the thought. He always admired her spunk!                                  Oh, Matt … I really am so sorry … but I have to warn you …Victor can be…. Now she swallowed hard…. Then showed him some of the bruises… she bared.      Matt, Please find her … before … she took another deep breath  .. I’ll never forgive myself if anything…. If he hurts …. Now she just covered her face with both hands and began crying again…. Matt, not knowing how to handle a woman crying,… lightly patted her arm… I will .. Thank You!          Matt headed down the stairs,.. out the door … Sam followed…          NO! Sam… I’ll do this .. But Marshal,.. I can help… I know Sam and I appreciate that , but … Doc might need you here..?  

Matt mounted back up on Buck ,… Sam, do you have an Idea where Festus’ headed… Oh,.. North of town!  He has about a few  hours on you…. He followed the track out from here … Most folks left town early before the snow fall…. So tracks were fresh… to follow.    Nodding back… thanks Sam.. Oh Marshal ..Yeah, Sam,.. Be careful … I will Sam... Oh and Bring Miss Kitty home… You Know it! Sam    Then Matt carefully follow the Track as Festus’ did straight out North of Dodge!     In a soft determined voice … Hang on Honey I’m Coming!

                                                                                                TBC

The Trade!,PT.5

                                                                PT.5

                                                                                         The Trade!

Matt rose early,…and headed out for the trek back to Dodge… Colonial Tucker did as he said ,making sure Matt was well stocked for the Journey…  now the snow was falling heavier and at a quick pace.

Doc decided to check on Franny ,.. since he was going to have breakfast with his favorite redhead…     Kitty needed the distraction, from worrying about Matt, and Franny.  Entering the Long Branch           well Morning Sam…, Kitty down yet ?   smiling at Doc,.. Morning Doc!  Hasn’t been down yet ,but I know she was  up late .. Well, I think I’ll just go check on Franny while I wait for Kitty.. and headed for the stairs.  

Crossing the Landing, about to Knock on Franny’s door,.. from the corner of his eye.. Doc saw something  was odd… “Franny”?   what in thunder?  ..racing over to her prone body lying in the hall just outside Kitty’s door.    Kitty!, Sam!  …hurry,… Sam quickly took the stairs two at a time…Doc! What is it ?   Just as Kitty ‘s  door opened….slowly… expecting to see Kitty ,but then …nothing, no one…. Sam tapped on the door… Miss Kitty?  There was no answer.. pushing the door open more ,.. Sam was shocked at what he found… Kitty’s room was in complete disarray !... Doc!...Doc!    as Doc raised his eyes,.. he could see just a bit of what Sam excitement was about… Sam, can you carry her …? Sure Doc, Sam said picking Franny up with ease.   Doc stood overwhelmed at the disaster.. before him.   Oh My …inhaling a deep breath..

Sam placed Franny gently on her bed,… Doc, what do you think happened?  Groggy and weak….Franny with eyes half masked…. “Help Her” ,.. Please,. Tried to Help.. then she pass out.   Doc, Who could…. Swiping his Mustache,… Not sure Sam, But I think I have an Idea.  Sam, have you noticed anyone hanging around …someone out of the ordinary ?  No Doc ,..ahhhh No wait… there was this Fella’ …Miss Kitty threw him out…. But he didn’t look like a violent   Fella’… he was pretty upset that she threw him out in front of ..well everyone.   Sam,  Can you go get Festus’?... This isn’t good!.. right away Doc..

Rushing through the door of Matt’s office, Festus’ Festus’ … Festus’ was out back of the office … Hold on the Sam, what’s got you all railed up?    Festus’ It Miss Kitty!    Why’ditin ya say so right out?  I just did. Doc found Miss Franny on the hall floor and when we checked Miss Kitty’s room , well It’s a Mess! And she’s not there …. And all Miss Franny could say was Help her ,Tried to Help her.   Doc, over taking care of Miss Franny,.. but sent me for you….Festus’ Miss kitty could be in real trouble….

Eye lids feeling heavy,… trying to move … it was difficult to focus on the room around her….           Beginning to moan,.. she suddenly heard a deep husky voice ,… well now ,… your awake?                      Still not able to focus …ohhhh, where am i? how’d I get,….Not so fast Little lady…. She could feel her body being lifted…. Here ya go sit up,.. made some coffee… Coffee? Kitty repeated.   Your gonna be here awhile so……staring at the face.. with dark eyes, shoulder length hair and in need of a shave….Wait!   here a while?, where is here ? and who are you?   In due Time Little lady!, In due Time!

Doc, sat on the edge of the bed placing Cool rags on Franny’s face and Neck areas… she was now fevered.  Pulse racing,.. and was still un-conscience … Doc sat looking at her, she was very pale….Thinking to himself,… What in thunder   happened here?  OH, Kitty Honey … from the look of that room….           then he just place both hands , folded against his forehead….

Festus and Sam check all around,… and noticed the back stairs door was ajar … The door had been pried…Sam was picking up some of the things,.. when he noticed a piece of paper,.. sitting on the Bed… it was addressed to no one special.. it just read….

Have the Redhead, and Her life will depend on your cooperation,…

 A Trade!... Francine for The Redhead!....

Sam read it again, to Festus’…. Then Sam … just in a low voice, OH Miss Kitty….

                                                                                                TBC

The Trade!,PT.4

                                                PT.4

                                                                                        The Trade!

Finishing up Supper at Fort Dodge with the Colonial… Matt noticed glancing out the window, the Light beginning of Snow Fall.   He had been hoping to get back to Dodge ahead of it …This ride was difficult enough.  Matt, what has your attention?   Ben, I just thought I might have beat the Snow,.. but , looks like I was wrong.  Don’t worry friend, I’ll see to it you are well supplied for you trek back.

Kitty was getting ready for the Night time crowd, then ,  Franny knocked at her door.. It’s open,!                    Kitty , are you busy? ..no ,come in.. Just changing for the night ….as she looked on at Kitty standing there in an Emerald Green Satin Dress, wow! You look fantastic!   Why Thank You,.. Kitty I just wanted to Thank You for all your doing.   Fran, what are friends for ?  No, Kitty I owe you ...just showing up like this after all these years,. .and…     et ,et  don’t think about that … I’ll come and check on you in a bit, so go.. back to bed ..Doctor’s orders!....smiling at Kitty.. Yes Ma’am!     Oh, I’ll bring you a tray too.     Oh, Kitty I, I…..and just with the look Kitty gave her… she knew not to argue. Go on now Rest….and Kitty headed down stairs.

The Saloon, was filling up quite early,    when she made her way to the Bar,…. Sam, smiled,.. good crowd Miss Kitty,.. well Sam,… it might still be an early night ,.. from the look outside… Why’s that Miss Kitty?    It looks like it’s begun to snow.   Then her face changed… Miss Kitty what is it?   Oh, Nothing Sam,.. Just thinking about Matt riding out to Fort Dodge and Having to ride back ,if this snow get worse….                   I wasn’t to happy about him riding out ,.. when he’s not fully healed yet.   Marshal Dillon will be fine ..he said trying to reassure her.   Festus’ made his way through the batwing door … rubbing his hands …from the chill…. It’s’a might cold out there tonight… Kitty just smirked… then.. Yes it sure is … tell me Festus’ do you think a whiskey would help that ?… winking at Sam     Jest Might Miz Kitty… Sam,. She said nodding her head for him to give Festus’ a drink.   Miz Kitty ,.. don’t see ur  shemale friend?   She resting.. it’s been a long trip…  Miz Kitty,… how long she be’a stayin?   Don’t know Festus’                            Ya know Miz Kitty,.. Dodge is gittin’ lots’a fancy folks  ‘a  lately…. Is that so? She said raising a brow.        Well yeah!... just a little bit ago ..there’a fancy feller’ came in on the train,… jawing bout’ git his’a bags to the Dodge House….like I be his ‘a servant…. Now furrowing her brow….Do you know who he was?   Nah jest sum ya-hoo   fiddle Miz Kitty dodge don’t be’a needing folks like that there….   Well I see ya later ..gonna do rounds…fur it gits snowing sum more….  Ok you stay warm Festus’ ya hear?   

As Festus’ left … She  went back to her conversation with Sam,… when Sam stared towards to doors…. Kitty’s eyes followed … Standing Tall in the doorway,.. in a tailored Suit, fancy hat …silk Tie,.. rubbing his fingers along his Goat-tee….. Kitty caught his eye… he  slowly with his shoulder’s straight and firm….walked in her direction….Evening Ma’am… then looking at Sam,… I don’t suppose you have something suitable for me to drink?       Kitty with an intense look ,.. raising a brow…. Well now Tiger,…    I think Sam can find something to your liking…. Looking at her from a side Glance,…Sam,.. and without saying a word…. Motioned to the top shelf…   A little far from Home ?  Yes Ma’am….It’s Kitty , Kitty Russell…!You don’t look like you belong in such a place like this!  Although it is nicer than some others… Well , Mister a… he finish for her Bousselot’,  Victor Bousselot’  ok well Mister Bousselot,   I own this one!   Purposterous !    A Woman Owning a Saloon…   Maybe so .. but, I own this one !                 after Sam poured him a glass of Kitty’s best Top shelf Whiskey … Looking surprised,.. Looking at the brown liquid in the Glass…. From where do you Hail Miss Russell?   Thinking  before she said to much,…      Oh back east… Sam looked on wondering why she answered that way…  didn’t think you belonged here!       Mister Bousselot’,… I’ve been to a lot of place across this country,..  but, truthfully Dodge is where I choose to be,.. this is my home….You should return to your real home Miss Russell,… a Proper lady……   he was angering Kitty now .. she’d dealt with enough of his kind… Excuse me Mister Bousselot… I won’t stand here and be insulted… now this is a public place ,but , I choose my company… so if you’ll excuse me?  No, Ma’am you will hear what I have to say,… !  and grabbed for her arm,… quickly Sam with some force,.. Just wait one minute… get your hands off of her… The insolence,... of the help!    That fast Sam pulled his hand away from Kitty… Mister,… I choose who I talk to and drink with … and right now…      let’s just say,… I can’t stomach Men who show such rude  disrespect for a Woman!... Actually I’d prefer you leave!  How dare you!?   Good Bye  Mister Bousselot’     Sam?… Let’s go fella’     Sam ushered him out!

Later Louie, carried over a tray from Delmonico’s for Kitty to take to Franny…. Sam, Sam … I brought this fur Miss Kitty…. Joe, said she sent fur it… I’ll take it Louie,… ok Sam…. Louie wait,… what is it Sam?  Here … maybe this will warm you some…. Ahhh Sam,.. Thanks!   And he pour him a glass of Whiskey….

Kitty carried the tray upstairs,..to check on Franny… tappng lightly on her door,… Kitty is that you?        Yes Honey it me… brought you something to eat…how you feeling?  Oh, a little better,.. just awfully tired.. for some reason?… I’d say it’s that little one .. ahhh Kitty I’m sorry I didn’t tell you right off…        That ok,… let’s just keep you safe and see you get proper care…ok?  Now here try to eat some of this…..                  

Victor Bousselot’ was enraged that Kitty threw him out as she did.. How dare a Woman give me an order?         What is the world coming to when a Man , a Man such as I,.. be subjected to such arrogance !? Well, I just have to locate Francine,.. then Flee this obnoxious little hamlet!    He decided to wire back home for further information ..about trying to find Francine… he had, had a private investigator to help,with locating her …. When he received a response,.. he was surprised to Learn ,.. That the Private Investigator , dug up information about where she visited while in New Orleans as well as who she visited,… and in that information , he found that Francine had a good Childhood Friend she tried to find,… By the name of Kathleen ,… Kathleen Russell!   Well now…. Miss Russell you just  may be of positive use after all …!    I will find you Francine ,… anyway I need to ….You belong to me , he said to himself as he finished his drink and sat back in his chair.

                                                                                                TBC