Post by TheRebandTheDeb on Feb 21, 2009 16:25:06 GMT -8
The Night Of The Spectral Vapors
Artie hurriedly stuffed the contracts in his satchel and fastened it. He had the dubious honor of telling his partner James that Colonel Richmond had diverted them to, of all places, Virginia City in the Nevada territory. Artie quickly took his leave of the Colonel and headed back toward the train.
During the ride back to the train Artie went over the conversation with the Colonel and it sent shivers up and down his spine. The only information the Colonel had given him was that while they were there he wanted them to make themselves available to Mr. Cartwright if he wanted their services investigating a series of disturbances occurring on his land. It would have to be Halloween when we are called to a strange place to check into strange occurrences, Artie thought as he shivered once again.
WWWWWWWWWW
“Hey Jim…are you here?” Artie called out as he entered the parlor car and tossed the satchel onto the desk.
“Yeah, Artie, I’m back here!” Came the muffled reply.
“Well, get out here I gotta brief you on our new assignment.” Artie told him as he headed toward the hidden communication tube by the fireplace.
As Jim entered the parlor he watched Artie return the communication tube to its hidden recess and he handed his partner a glass of brandy and then poured one another one for himself.
“What was that about?” Jim asked as Artie reached for the satchel.
“Oh just giving Orrin our new destination.” Artie replied as he pulled the sheaf of papers from the satchel.
“We already have a destination, Artie. We’re going to St. Louis remember.”
“Plans change James. We are now headed for Virginia City, Nevada.” Artie glanced at Jim as he opened the safe behind the map above the sideboard and stuffed the papers inside. The safe door snapped shut as Artie reached to close it. Oh, this is gonna be a REAL good assignment! Artie thought.
“Artie, what is in Virginia City that requires us and this train?” Jim demanded his good mood quickly slipping away.
“The government has tried unsuccessfully several times to get important timber contracts to a man there by the name of Ben Cartwright. Seems every attempt has been found out and the courier waylaid by Cartwright’s competition…a Mr. Snodgrass. Apparently the man has been going around town making not so thinly veiled threats. The Colonel thought we could get the contracts through.”
“Oh so just like that we are diverted from St. Louis…” Jim sounded disappointed.
“Oh come on, Jim, the girls would be too busy for much anyway. They have their internships this month remember? Us being in St. Louis would just distract them and you wouldn’t want that so think of this as the Colonel doing us a favor. ” Artie smiled and clicked his tongue at Jim as he sipped his brandy.
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
The Wanderer pulled into the train station early the next day. Artie and Jim had received a wire from the Colonel that they were to proceed immediately to the Ponderosa and stay in Virginia City until the contracts had been signed then bring the signed documents back with them. Artie put the contracts into his saddlebag and fastened it securely. Having already received directions to the fabled ranch they mounted their horses and headed through the town.
“While we’re here I want to stop by and see Dr. Martin, Jim.” Artie told his partner as they slowly walked their horses.
“Are you sick?” Jim asked instantly alerted.
“No…no…I’ve known Dr. Martin for a long time. Met him in the war as a matter of fact. It would be nice to actually see him instead of just writing letters.” Artie told him.
“Well, it’s still early yet, why don’t we see him before we head out to the Ponderosa?” Jim offered.
“That’s a good idea!” Artie agreed.
WWWWWWWWWW
Adam and Joe Cartwright ambled along the main thoroughfare of Virginia City, toward their favorite eatery. They had just completed some business transactions at the bank and would be heading home after having a late dinner.
At mid-afternoon the restaurant was not very crowded…a few older women sat in the center of the room enjoying the pie that the establishment was famous for, and an older gentleman with two young women who could have been his daughters sat under the clock hanging on the far wall.
Adam and his brother, known to most as Little Joe, had been taught by their widowed father, Ben, to be gentlemen, thus they removed their hats upon entering. They took a seat near the front window as Mike, the owner of the restaurant, approached the men he knew as friends with coffee. He was warmly greeted by the Cartwrights.
“Mike, good to see you,” Adam shook Mike’s hand after he had put the coffee pot on the table. “How’s business?”
“Always good Adam, always good. You boys heading home today, or are you spending the night in town?” as he poured the coffee.
“Adam wants to get home Mike. We’re having a party out at the Ponderosa tomorrow night, and he wants to get the supplies home to Hop Sing.” Little Joe took a swig of the hot coffee, then added sugar to it as he spoke.
Mike turned to Adam. “That’s too bad, boys,” he leaned in closer, “those two young ladies are visiting Doc and were asking where they could spend an evening’s entertainment.” He had been friends with the Cartwright boys for years and they would all spend time together, having dinner or drinks and playing cards. Sometimes they would escort some young ladies to the local theater, or to a dance, too. Adam and Joe stole a glance at the young women sitting across the room with the man they now recognized as Dr. Martin.
Joe piped up, “Well big brother, we can offer them an escort!” he grinned wide and stood up before Adam could stop him.
“Joe!” Adam reached for his little brother, who jumped away and still grinning, approached the table where the two young women were enjoying their coffee as well.
“Hey Doc, how are you this fine day?” Joe asked with a brief glance in his direction before turning his attention to the young women.
“Joseph, good to see you. How is everyone at the Ponderosa?” the doctor asked, aware that Joe’s attention was elsewhere.
“Fine, doc, just fine…” he continued to smile at the ladies, obviously waiting to be introduced. Doc sighed and gave in.
“Joseph Cartwright meet Miss Danielle Oliver and Miss Rebecca Moore.”
“A pleasure to make your acquaintance,” Joe continued to smile.
“Yours as well, Mr. Cartwright,” Rebecca spoke first.
“Won’t you sit down, Mr. Cartwright?” Danielle asked. Joe turned to grin at Adam before he answered, “Thank you I will.” Adam shook his head slowly as he looked out the window, his arms crossed on the table in front of him.
“The gentleman you are with seems a bit perturbed, Mr. Cartwright,” Danielle grinned.
“Adam, come on over here and meet Dr. Martin’s guests,” he called to his brother, gesturing with his arm.
As this was going on the ladies in the center of the room were gathering their parcels in order to leave. One of the women dropped an awkward and large parcel and Adam jumped up to help her retrieve it. After the woman thanked him he crossed the room, albeit reluctantly. Little Joe was an impetuous boy at times and Adam could usually deal with it, but sometimes he was annoyed.
“Thanks Mike,” he murmured sarcastically to his friend as he passed him. Mike grinned.
“I’ll bring your dinner to their table, Adam,” he smirked just as he ducked into the kitchen.
“Paul,” Adam acknowledged the old family friend before turning to his female guests.
“Ladies, this is Joseph’s oldest brother, Adam. The oldest of the three Cartwright boys.”
“How do you do, Mr. Cartwright?” Rebecca and Danielle asked at the same time. They turned toward each other and laughed, then Danielle continued, “Won’t you join us, please, Mr. Cartwright?”
“Thank you, Miss…?”
“Oliver. Danielle Oliver,” she held her hand out for Adam to shake. As he grasped her slender fingers in his own he looked into her eyes. They were mirthful and flashed with her smile. He couldn’t resist and smiled back, his own blue eyes sparkling.
Suddenly he realized that he was still holding her hand, and he pulled away. Adam did notice though that she had neither pulled away, nor had she glanced away. A strong, independent woman, he mused to himself.
Adam then turned to her companion as the doctor introduced her, “And this is Rebecca Moore.” Adam took her hand as well, but didn’t hold it longer than appropriate. As he took his seat he asked, “What brings you ladies to Virginia City?”
Rebecca answered, telling him that Dr. Martin was a friend of her father, and that the ladies, as doctoral students, were required a short internship, and had opted for Virginia City.
“Lady doctors, well how about that?” Little Joe smiled around the table, surprised. Adam wasn’t, however. He looked thoughtfully at Danielle.
“Forward thinking, Joe, we have to be forward thinking. Women have been caring for the sick for a long time.” Danielle smiled at the comment.
“That’s true, Mr. Cartwright. Rebecca and I have both been nurses for a long while now. It just wasn’t enough to assist, however, especially when I knew that I could perform surgeries just as well as any man, if not better than some.” Dani was very forthright when speaking of her decision to become a doctor. She had of course come against some opposition when looking for a good program. Some schools simply didn’t allow women students into their doctoral programs.
Rebecca spoke up, “If it hadn’t been for Danielle, I would never have thought I could enter the field as anything more than a nurse. How strange that two girls from St. Louis, friends for years, would both decide to become doctors, isn’t it?” She had a knack for changing the subject.
“You are both from St. Louis? That’s a long way from here,” Joe focused on Rebecca as Mike brought a plate and sat it in front of him, then placed another in front of Adam. The conversation went on from there, discussing the differences the girls found between Virginia City and St. Louis; Dr. Martin returned to his office.
WWWWWWWWW
Five minutes later found the agents standing in the outer office of Dr. Martin’s home/office. His nurse told them he would be right down. Jim paced the room while Artie looked at the artwork on the wall. They turned in unison when they heard the office door open.
“Artemus Gordon!” Paul said with a smile as he approached and extended his hand.
“Paul Martin you old reprobate, how are ya?” Artie vigorously shook his hand.
“Dr. Martin, I’d like you to meet my partner, James West.” Artie nodded toward Jim, “Jim this is Paul Martin, damn fine doctor when he stayed away from the ladies.” Artie winked.
“As I recall, Artemus, it was you who had the problem staying away from the ladies.” Paul retorted and Artie blushed.
“What brings you way out here? Last I heard from you your stomping grounds included the White House.”
“We’re here on assignment, Paul. Not quite sure yet how long we’ll be in town. But I would like to have supper with you before we leave.” Artie told him without divulging their mission.
“That sounds like a fine idea. Say, I have two assistants staying with me…doing a medical internship of sorts…I’m sure they’d love to meet you. They seem quite fascinated with the type of work you do.”
“Hmm…these assistants wouldn’t happen to be female would they?” Jim’s eyes lit up at the prospect and Artie rolled his eyes.
“AFTER we deliver the papers huh, Jim?” He turned back to Paul. “We’re headed to the Ponderosa but we should be back by suppertime tomorrow night if you’d care to set something up with the ladies.” Artie informed him.
“Oh you going out to see Ben? I hear he’s been having some troubles. You two aren’t here about that are you?”
“Well, we really can’t say, Paul. I would appreciate it if you didn’t tell anyone who we are.”
“I understand. If anyone asks you’re just some old friends here to visit Ben.” Paul nodded and Artie and Jim took their leave and headed for the Ponderosa.
WWWWWWWWWW
After a time Danielle realized that she and Rebecca had to return to Dr. Martin’s office as well.
“Please excuse us, gentlemen, we do have to return or we may not get credit for today at all!” her eyes were laughing, however.
Adam and Joe stood as the ladies gathered their belongings. “Let us escort you to Paul’s office,” Adam insisted. As he paid Mike what they owed for lunch Little Joe mentioned the grand party at the Ponderosa to their companions.
“Pa has invited practically the whole territory. There will be a bonfire, hayrides of course, and a spread that is unmatched. Hop Sing doesn’t do anything small out at the Ponderosa.” He claimed as Adam rejoined them.
“My little brother is right, ladies. You should consider joining us. You could ride out with Paul after dinner,” he smiled at Danielle. “We could take a ride, show you the ranch.”
Danielle and Rebecca glanced at each other. An outing would be fun; they had been working hard for several weeks with Dr. Martin. And riding out to the Ponderosa with him would keep it from seeming improper that the two young women would be visiting a ranch full of men, even if a community party were the reason.
“That would be a treat, thank you!” Rebecca finally exclaimed.
Little Joe and Adam smiled at the agreeable outcome, escorted the ladies to the doctor’s home before bidding them goodbye.
The brothers turned to leave but Adam paused, “Will you join me for supper this evening, Miss Oliver?”
Danielle was taken aback as she turned to Rebecca. Little Joe spoke up, “It would be an honor if you would accompany me, Miss Moore. We could join them.” The ladies hesitated. Finally Danielle answered.
“Of course, but you must call us Danielle and Rebecca.”
Adam tipped his hat, “Until this evening, Danielle.”
WWWWWWWWWW
Artie and Jim slowed as they neared the Ponderosa. Artie would be glad to finally get off the horse and had said as much to his partner several times. As they entered the yard the side door to the house leading into the kitchen opened and a Chinese man tossed a bucket of water out the door. Seeing they had visitors he set the bucket down and wiped his hands as the riders dismounted and tied their horses to the hitching post.
“You here to see Mista Cartlight?” The Chinaman asked looking between the two men.
“Yes, we’re here to see a Benjamin Cartwright. Is he available?” Artie asked in return.
“Yes sir, Mista Cartlight in house. Hop Sing show you.” He pointed toward the main door as he showed them inside the house.
A large man was sitting behind an even larger and ornately carved desk his attention consumed by the paperwork before him. He looked up as Hop Sing entered followed by two men dressed in finely tailored suits. Ben stood and shook their hands as the introductions were made.
“What can I do for you gentlemen?” Ben asked as he sat behind the desk.
“The President sent us sir.” Jim began as Artie opened the saddlebags he had brought in.
“Mr. Cartwright, we have those government timber contracts you have been having a hard time getting. We have been instructed to stay in town until you’ve had time to look them over and sign them.” Artie informed him as he handed the sheaf of paper to Ben.
“I’ll look these over immediately. Do you gentlemen have a place to stay?”
“We do have our private train on the siding in town.” Jim stated.
“Nonsense, that’s too much travel just for a night’s sleep. Hop Sing…make up the guest rooms…if that is acceptable to you gentlemen.” Ben inquired and Artie and Jim nodded.
“I’ll have one of my sons show you around the Ponderosa while I go over these contracts.” Ben told them, “Adam! Joseph!” Ben called out.
“Mista Adam and Mista Joe no here. You send them to town.” Hop Sing replied as he moved about the dinning area preparing the table for dinner.
“Thank you Hop Sing I had forgotten that. Gentlemen, I can get a hand to take you on a tour if you’d like. My other boy, Hoss, is out mending fences.”
“Oh no, sir, don’t go to any trouble on our account.” Artie was quick to speak not giving Jim a chance. “I’ve done enough horseback riding lately…the chance to just sit and read my book would be a godsend.” Jim grinned slyly and rolled his eyes.
“I’ll take a look around outside if that’s all right.” Jim said.
“Sure, feel free to look anywhere you like. Just don’t go too far, dinner will be ready soon.” Jim nodded and Ben went back to reading the contracts and Artie pulled a book out of his saddlebag and settled comfortably in the blue chair.
WWWWWWWWWW
Rebecca closed the door as Danielle removed her hat and cloak. “Dani, Adam Cartwright is smitten with you,” she stated matter-of-factly, crossing her arms. Dani turned to Rebecca with a quizzical look.
“What gives you that idea?”
Rebecca laughed as she put her cloak on the wall peg next to Danielle’s. When Danielle didn’t laugh as well she turned toward her. “Danielle Oliver! You didn’t notice the way that man looked at you…or the way he spoke to you?”
Dani shook her head, “No I didn’t notice any such thing, Rebecca. I’m sure the romantic in you has surfaced yet again.” She slipped her arms into her pinstriped pinafore then fashioned a bow in the back. Rebecca performed the same tasks then followed her friend into the examining room.
“It ISN’T the romantic in me, Dani. Adam was hanging on your every word. Why, he barely took an interest in anything that his brother and I had to say!” she exclaimed.
Danielle performed a quick inventory of the medicines and powders in the cabinet then locked it. She looked at Rebecca as she skirted around her to inventory the linen cupboard. “Rebecca, I have no interest in Adam Cartwright.”
Her friend let out a sigh, “I know THAT. I wasn’t saying that you did. I was merely saying that he has an interest in YOU.” Danielle kept working without saying a word. Rebecca continued quietly, “Danielle, I know that you are only interested in one man.”
Danielle looked up from her work and smiled, then went back to her counting.
WWWWWWWWWWW
Jim made his way around the barnyard taking in the various ranch day activities, nodding to or stopping to talk to some of the hands, to see if he could get any information on the reported strange happening. All the hands were able to tell him is that late at night there seemed to be some strange noises coming from the direction of the lake. But as that was a private place for the family none had yet ventured out there.
Artie and Ben were sitting in front of a warm and inviting fire when Jim returned to the house after hanging his jacket on one of the pegs on the rack hanging on the wall he joined them.
“What do you think of my little ranch, Mr. West?” Ben asked as he poured Jim a cup of coffee.
“I wouldn’t call your spread little, Mr. Cartwright.” Jim chuckled.
“Well, the Lord has been good to us. I started with 160 plot and it’s grown some over the years. And please call me Ben.”
“All right if you’ll call me Jim, Mr. West is my father.” Jim smiled. “You’ve got a real nice place here, Ben. Artie you should take a ride and check it out…pretty impressive.”
“Well…we are here for as long as Mr. Uh…Ben needs our services so I supposed a tour would be the appropriate thing to do.” Artie replied.
“That reminds me Ben, while I was out taking a tour I talked to some of your hands. They tell me there are strange things going on around here. Anything you need our help with?” Jim asked as he settled onto the settee.
“I’m actually embarrassed to tell you the truth. My men have claimed to be hearing strange noises down by the lake the past few nights.” Ben blushed with embarrassment.
“What’s to be embarrassed about? Jim and I’ll take a ride out there after supper and check things out for you.” Artie volunteered and Jim looked at him one eye brow raised.
“We will?” Jim asked.
“Sure why not? The Colonel said we were at Ben’s disposal while we’re here.”
“Now, gentlemen you don’t have to…” Ben started but Artie held his hand up.
“Nonsense, Ben…this sounds like a mystery that needs investigating.” Jim rolled his eyes and groaned.
“Oh no…give up now Ben, I know my partner. When he gets that look in his eye and he has something to investigate there’s no stopping him.”
Hop Sing announced supper and informed them Adam and Little Joe were staying in town waiting on the stage to bring the masks for the party the Cartwright’s were having. The men sat down to supper and Ben filled them in on what he knew about the strange noises and occurrences.
“If you ask me I think the men are just trying to throw a scare into my youngest son. Joseph is somewhat gullible when it comes to mysteries.” Ben smiled.
WWWWWWWWWWWW
Artie hurriedly stuffed the contracts in his satchel and fastened it. He had the dubious honor of telling his partner James that Colonel Richmond had diverted them to, of all places, Virginia City in the Nevada territory. Artie quickly took his leave of the Colonel and headed back toward the train.
During the ride back to the train Artie went over the conversation with the Colonel and it sent shivers up and down his spine. The only information the Colonel had given him was that while they were there he wanted them to make themselves available to Mr. Cartwright if he wanted their services investigating a series of disturbances occurring on his land. It would have to be Halloween when we are called to a strange place to check into strange occurrences, Artie thought as he shivered once again.
WWWWWWWWWW
“Hey Jim…are you here?” Artie called out as he entered the parlor car and tossed the satchel onto the desk.
“Yeah, Artie, I’m back here!” Came the muffled reply.
“Well, get out here I gotta brief you on our new assignment.” Artie told him as he headed toward the hidden communication tube by the fireplace.
As Jim entered the parlor he watched Artie return the communication tube to its hidden recess and he handed his partner a glass of brandy and then poured one another one for himself.
“What was that about?” Jim asked as Artie reached for the satchel.
“Oh just giving Orrin our new destination.” Artie replied as he pulled the sheaf of papers from the satchel.
“We already have a destination, Artie. We’re going to St. Louis remember.”
“Plans change James. We are now headed for Virginia City, Nevada.” Artie glanced at Jim as he opened the safe behind the map above the sideboard and stuffed the papers inside. The safe door snapped shut as Artie reached to close it. Oh, this is gonna be a REAL good assignment! Artie thought.
“Artie, what is in Virginia City that requires us and this train?” Jim demanded his good mood quickly slipping away.
“The government has tried unsuccessfully several times to get important timber contracts to a man there by the name of Ben Cartwright. Seems every attempt has been found out and the courier waylaid by Cartwright’s competition…a Mr. Snodgrass. Apparently the man has been going around town making not so thinly veiled threats. The Colonel thought we could get the contracts through.”
“Oh so just like that we are diverted from St. Louis…” Jim sounded disappointed.
“Oh come on, Jim, the girls would be too busy for much anyway. They have their internships this month remember? Us being in St. Louis would just distract them and you wouldn’t want that so think of this as the Colonel doing us a favor. ” Artie smiled and clicked his tongue at Jim as he sipped his brandy.
WWWWWWWWWWWWWW
The Wanderer pulled into the train station early the next day. Artie and Jim had received a wire from the Colonel that they were to proceed immediately to the Ponderosa and stay in Virginia City until the contracts had been signed then bring the signed documents back with them. Artie put the contracts into his saddlebag and fastened it securely. Having already received directions to the fabled ranch they mounted their horses and headed through the town.
“While we’re here I want to stop by and see Dr. Martin, Jim.” Artie told his partner as they slowly walked their horses.
“Are you sick?” Jim asked instantly alerted.
“No…no…I’ve known Dr. Martin for a long time. Met him in the war as a matter of fact. It would be nice to actually see him instead of just writing letters.” Artie told him.
“Well, it’s still early yet, why don’t we see him before we head out to the Ponderosa?” Jim offered.
“That’s a good idea!” Artie agreed.
WWWWWWWWWW
Adam and Joe Cartwright ambled along the main thoroughfare of Virginia City, toward their favorite eatery. They had just completed some business transactions at the bank and would be heading home after having a late dinner.
At mid-afternoon the restaurant was not very crowded…a few older women sat in the center of the room enjoying the pie that the establishment was famous for, and an older gentleman with two young women who could have been his daughters sat under the clock hanging on the far wall.
Adam and his brother, known to most as Little Joe, had been taught by their widowed father, Ben, to be gentlemen, thus they removed their hats upon entering. They took a seat near the front window as Mike, the owner of the restaurant, approached the men he knew as friends with coffee. He was warmly greeted by the Cartwrights.
“Mike, good to see you,” Adam shook Mike’s hand after he had put the coffee pot on the table. “How’s business?”
“Always good Adam, always good. You boys heading home today, or are you spending the night in town?” as he poured the coffee.
“Adam wants to get home Mike. We’re having a party out at the Ponderosa tomorrow night, and he wants to get the supplies home to Hop Sing.” Little Joe took a swig of the hot coffee, then added sugar to it as he spoke.
Mike turned to Adam. “That’s too bad, boys,” he leaned in closer, “those two young ladies are visiting Doc and were asking where they could spend an evening’s entertainment.” He had been friends with the Cartwright boys for years and they would all spend time together, having dinner or drinks and playing cards. Sometimes they would escort some young ladies to the local theater, or to a dance, too. Adam and Joe stole a glance at the young women sitting across the room with the man they now recognized as Dr. Martin.
Joe piped up, “Well big brother, we can offer them an escort!” he grinned wide and stood up before Adam could stop him.
“Joe!” Adam reached for his little brother, who jumped away and still grinning, approached the table where the two young women were enjoying their coffee as well.
“Hey Doc, how are you this fine day?” Joe asked with a brief glance in his direction before turning his attention to the young women.
“Joseph, good to see you. How is everyone at the Ponderosa?” the doctor asked, aware that Joe’s attention was elsewhere.
“Fine, doc, just fine…” he continued to smile at the ladies, obviously waiting to be introduced. Doc sighed and gave in.
“Joseph Cartwright meet Miss Danielle Oliver and Miss Rebecca Moore.”
“A pleasure to make your acquaintance,” Joe continued to smile.
“Yours as well, Mr. Cartwright,” Rebecca spoke first.
“Won’t you sit down, Mr. Cartwright?” Danielle asked. Joe turned to grin at Adam before he answered, “Thank you I will.” Adam shook his head slowly as he looked out the window, his arms crossed on the table in front of him.
“The gentleman you are with seems a bit perturbed, Mr. Cartwright,” Danielle grinned.
“Adam, come on over here and meet Dr. Martin’s guests,” he called to his brother, gesturing with his arm.
As this was going on the ladies in the center of the room were gathering their parcels in order to leave. One of the women dropped an awkward and large parcel and Adam jumped up to help her retrieve it. After the woman thanked him he crossed the room, albeit reluctantly. Little Joe was an impetuous boy at times and Adam could usually deal with it, but sometimes he was annoyed.
“Thanks Mike,” he murmured sarcastically to his friend as he passed him. Mike grinned.
“I’ll bring your dinner to their table, Adam,” he smirked just as he ducked into the kitchen.
“Paul,” Adam acknowledged the old family friend before turning to his female guests.
“Ladies, this is Joseph’s oldest brother, Adam. The oldest of the three Cartwright boys.”
“How do you do, Mr. Cartwright?” Rebecca and Danielle asked at the same time. They turned toward each other and laughed, then Danielle continued, “Won’t you join us, please, Mr. Cartwright?”
“Thank you, Miss…?”
“Oliver. Danielle Oliver,” she held her hand out for Adam to shake. As he grasped her slender fingers in his own he looked into her eyes. They were mirthful and flashed with her smile. He couldn’t resist and smiled back, his own blue eyes sparkling.
Suddenly he realized that he was still holding her hand, and he pulled away. Adam did notice though that she had neither pulled away, nor had she glanced away. A strong, independent woman, he mused to himself.
Adam then turned to her companion as the doctor introduced her, “And this is Rebecca Moore.” Adam took her hand as well, but didn’t hold it longer than appropriate. As he took his seat he asked, “What brings you ladies to Virginia City?”
Rebecca answered, telling him that Dr. Martin was a friend of her father, and that the ladies, as doctoral students, were required a short internship, and had opted for Virginia City.
“Lady doctors, well how about that?” Little Joe smiled around the table, surprised. Adam wasn’t, however. He looked thoughtfully at Danielle.
“Forward thinking, Joe, we have to be forward thinking. Women have been caring for the sick for a long time.” Danielle smiled at the comment.
“That’s true, Mr. Cartwright. Rebecca and I have both been nurses for a long while now. It just wasn’t enough to assist, however, especially when I knew that I could perform surgeries just as well as any man, if not better than some.” Dani was very forthright when speaking of her decision to become a doctor. She had of course come against some opposition when looking for a good program. Some schools simply didn’t allow women students into their doctoral programs.
Rebecca spoke up, “If it hadn’t been for Danielle, I would never have thought I could enter the field as anything more than a nurse. How strange that two girls from St. Louis, friends for years, would both decide to become doctors, isn’t it?” She had a knack for changing the subject.
“You are both from St. Louis? That’s a long way from here,” Joe focused on Rebecca as Mike brought a plate and sat it in front of him, then placed another in front of Adam. The conversation went on from there, discussing the differences the girls found between Virginia City and St. Louis; Dr. Martin returned to his office.
WWWWWWWWW
Five minutes later found the agents standing in the outer office of Dr. Martin’s home/office. His nurse told them he would be right down. Jim paced the room while Artie looked at the artwork on the wall. They turned in unison when they heard the office door open.
“Artemus Gordon!” Paul said with a smile as he approached and extended his hand.
“Paul Martin you old reprobate, how are ya?” Artie vigorously shook his hand.
“Dr. Martin, I’d like you to meet my partner, James West.” Artie nodded toward Jim, “Jim this is Paul Martin, damn fine doctor when he stayed away from the ladies.” Artie winked.
“As I recall, Artemus, it was you who had the problem staying away from the ladies.” Paul retorted and Artie blushed.
“What brings you way out here? Last I heard from you your stomping grounds included the White House.”
“We’re here on assignment, Paul. Not quite sure yet how long we’ll be in town. But I would like to have supper with you before we leave.” Artie told him without divulging their mission.
“That sounds like a fine idea. Say, I have two assistants staying with me…doing a medical internship of sorts…I’m sure they’d love to meet you. They seem quite fascinated with the type of work you do.”
“Hmm…these assistants wouldn’t happen to be female would they?” Jim’s eyes lit up at the prospect and Artie rolled his eyes.
“AFTER we deliver the papers huh, Jim?” He turned back to Paul. “We’re headed to the Ponderosa but we should be back by suppertime tomorrow night if you’d care to set something up with the ladies.” Artie informed him.
“Oh you going out to see Ben? I hear he’s been having some troubles. You two aren’t here about that are you?”
“Well, we really can’t say, Paul. I would appreciate it if you didn’t tell anyone who we are.”
“I understand. If anyone asks you’re just some old friends here to visit Ben.” Paul nodded and Artie and Jim took their leave and headed for the Ponderosa.
WWWWWWWWWW
After a time Danielle realized that she and Rebecca had to return to Dr. Martin’s office as well.
“Please excuse us, gentlemen, we do have to return or we may not get credit for today at all!” her eyes were laughing, however.
Adam and Joe stood as the ladies gathered their belongings. “Let us escort you to Paul’s office,” Adam insisted. As he paid Mike what they owed for lunch Little Joe mentioned the grand party at the Ponderosa to their companions.
“Pa has invited practically the whole territory. There will be a bonfire, hayrides of course, and a spread that is unmatched. Hop Sing doesn’t do anything small out at the Ponderosa.” He claimed as Adam rejoined them.
“My little brother is right, ladies. You should consider joining us. You could ride out with Paul after dinner,” he smiled at Danielle. “We could take a ride, show you the ranch.”
Danielle and Rebecca glanced at each other. An outing would be fun; they had been working hard for several weeks with Dr. Martin. And riding out to the Ponderosa with him would keep it from seeming improper that the two young women would be visiting a ranch full of men, even if a community party were the reason.
“That would be a treat, thank you!” Rebecca finally exclaimed.
Little Joe and Adam smiled at the agreeable outcome, escorted the ladies to the doctor’s home before bidding them goodbye.
The brothers turned to leave but Adam paused, “Will you join me for supper this evening, Miss Oliver?”
Danielle was taken aback as she turned to Rebecca. Little Joe spoke up, “It would be an honor if you would accompany me, Miss Moore. We could join them.” The ladies hesitated. Finally Danielle answered.
“Of course, but you must call us Danielle and Rebecca.”
Adam tipped his hat, “Until this evening, Danielle.”
WWWWWWWWWW
Artie and Jim slowed as they neared the Ponderosa. Artie would be glad to finally get off the horse and had said as much to his partner several times. As they entered the yard the side door to the house leading into the kitchen opened and a Chinese man tossed a bucket of water out the door. Seeing they had visitors he set the bucket down and wiped his hands as the riders dismounted and tied their horses to the hitching post.
“You here to see Mista Cartlight?” The Chinaman asked looking between the two men.
“Yes, we’re here to see a Benjamin Cartwright. Is he available?” Artie asked in return.
“Yes sir, Mista Cartlight in house. Hop Sing show you.” He pointed toward the main door as he showed them inside the house.
A large man was sitting behind an even larger and ornately carved desk his attention consumed by the paperwork before him. He looked up as Hop Sing entered followed by two men dressed in finely tailored suits. Ben stood and shook their hands as the introductions were made.
“What can I do for you gentlemen?” Ben asked as he sat behind the desk.
“The President sent us sir.” Jim began as Artie opened the saddlebags he had brought in.
“Mr. Cartwright, we have those government timber contracts you have been having a hard time getting. We have been instructed to stay in town until you’ve had time to look them over and sign them.” Artie informed him as he handed the sheaf of paper to Ben.
“I’ll look these over immediately. Do you gentlemen have a place to stay?”
“We do have our private train on the siding in town.” Jim stated.
“Nonsense, that’s too much travel just for a night’s sleep. Hop Sing…make up the guest rooms…if that is acceptable to you gentlemen.” Ben inquired and Artie and Jim nodded.
“I’ll have one of my sons show you around the Ponderosa while I go over these contracts.” Ben told them, “Adam! Joseph!” Ben called out.
“Mista Adam and Mista Joe no here. You send them to town.” Hop Sing replied as he moved about the dinning area preparing the table for dinner.
“Thank you Hop Sing I had forgotten that. Gentlemen, I can get a hand to take you on a tour if you’d like. My other boy, Hoss, is out mending fences.”
“Oh no, sir, don’t go to any trouble on our account.” Artie was quick to speak not giving Jim a chance. “I’ve done enough horseback riding lately…the chance to just sit and read my book would be a godsend.” Jim grinned slyly and rolled his eyes.
“I’ll take a look around outside if that’s all right.” Jim said.
“Sure, feel free to look anywhere you like. Just don’t go too far, dinner will be ready soon.” Jim nodded and Ben went back to reading the contracts and Artie pulled a book out of his saddlebag and settled comfortably in the blue chair.
WWWWWWWWWW
Rebecca closed the door as Danielle removed her hat and cloak. “Dani, Adam Cartwright is smitten with you,” she stated matter-of-factly, crossing her arms. Dani turned to Rebecca with a quizzical look.
“What gives you that idea?”
Rebecca laughed as she put her cloak on the wall peg next to Danielle’s. When Danielle didn’t laugh as well she turned toward her. “Danielle Oliver! You didn’t notice the way that man looked at you…or the way he spoke to you?”
Dani shook her head, “No I didn’t notice any such thing, Rebecca. I’m sure the romantic in you has surfaced yet again.” She slipped her arms into her pinstriped pinafore then fashioned a bow in the back. Rebecca performed the same tasks then followed her friend into the examining room.
“It ISN’T the romantic in me, Dani. Adam was hanging on your every word. Why, he barely took an interest in anything that his brother and I had to say!” she exclaimed.
Danielle performed a quick inventory of the medicines and powders in the cabinet then locked it. She looked at Rebecca as she skirted around her to inventory the linen cupboard. “Rebecca, I have no interest in Adam Cartwright.”
Her friend let out a sigh, “I know THAT. I wasn’t saying that you did. I was merely saying that he has an interest in YOU.” Danielle kept working without saying a word. Rebecca continued quietly, “Danielle, I know that you are only interested in one man.”
Danielle looked up from her work and smiled, then went back to her counting.
WWWWWWWWWWW
Jim made his way around the barnyard taking in the various ranch day activities, nodding to or stopping to talk to some of the hands, to see if he could get any information on the reported strange happening. All the hands were able to tell him is that late at night there seemed to be some strange noises coming from the direction of the lake. But as that was a private place for the family none had yet ventured out there.
Artie and Ben were sitting in front of a warm and inviting fire when Jim returned to the house after hanging his jacket on one of the pegs on the rack hanging on the wall he joined them.
“What do you think of my little ranch, Mr. West?” Ben asked as he poured Jim a cup of coffee.
“I wouldn’t call your spread little, Mr. Cartwright.” Jim chuckled.
“Well, the Lord has been good to us. I started with 160 plot and it’s grown some over the years. And please call me Ben.”
“All right if you’ll call me Jim, Mr. West is my father.” Jim smiled. “You’ve got a real nice place here, Ben. Artie you should take a ride and check it out…pretty impressive.”
“Well…we are here for as long as Mr. Uh…Ben needs our services so I supposed a tour would be the appropriate thing to do.” Artie replied.
“That reminds me Ben, while I was out taking a tour I talked to some of your hands. They tell me there are strange things going on around here. Anything you need our help with?” Jim asked as he settled onto the settee.
“I’m actually embarrassed to tell you the truth. My men have claimed to be hearing strange noises down by the lake the past few nights.” Ben blushed with embarrassment.
“What’s to be embarrassed about? Jim and I’ll take a ride out there after supper and check things out for you.” Artie volunteered and Jim looked at him one eye brow raised.
“We will?” Jim asked.
“Sure why not? The Colonel said we were at Ben’s disposal while we’re here.”
“Now, gentlemen you don’t have to…” Ben started but Artie held his hand up.
“Nonsense, Ben…this sounds like a mystery that needs investigating.” Jim rolled his eyes and groaned.
“Oh no…give up now Ben, I know my partner. When he gets that look in his eye and he has something to investigate there’s no stopping him.”
Hop Sing announced supper and informed them Adam and Little Joe were staying in town waiting on the stage to bring the masks for the party the Cartwright’s were having. The men sat down to supper and Ben filled them in on what he knew about the strange noises and occurrences.
“If you ask me I think the men are just trying to throw a scare into my youngest son. Joseph is somewhat gullible when it comes to mysteries.” Ben smiled.
WWWWWWWWWWWW