In reply to Travis Sunday (msg #955):

There's a group of cowboys making conversation. They don't seem to mind another cowboy taking a seat. Mostly, conversation is about what jobs can be had during the fall and winter. Some of the men are talking about heading south, to Texas. Others speak of Arizona, for the winter. Travis hears Abilene come up once; during the conversation a few fellers wonder aloud whether any drives will be going that far into Kansas next year. Another feller said he heard there would some drives further west--maybe into Utah Territory, what with the railroads and all. And the conversation moves on.

In reply to Major Gray (msg #953):

Cole nods,

Yup, I meant between here and Abilene. Just need to know if me and the men might run into an old acquaintance of yours, on the trail, while we scout ahead.

As for the rest, I just wanted to know what I had to work with, should negotiation become an option, in trying to secure a path through this here territory.

The Major has a look of concern.

"I have allies in Abilene. None in between," he says. Moving closer to the top hand, Major Gray continues.

"I'll ask you to be more plain, Cole. I'm not sure what you mean when you say 'what you have to work with.'"

In reply to Major Gray (msg #959):

As they continue to walk, Cole turns slightly towards the Major...

As I understand it, the goal for me and the boys, is to find a safe, and quick, trail north, for the herd.

So, two possible solutions to this problem seem clear: 1) Find a way to avoid anyone who might have a problem with us passing a herd through this territory 2) Find a way to convince anyone who might want to interfere with us and the herd, not to.

If'n I'm not mistaken, seems to me you were willing to give up a couple of head to smooth our way, a little while ago. I'm just wondering if you would be still open to that, should the opportunity come up? Also, what about cash? Some fellers might react a might better, if some form of payment were provided, to keep the peace.

I'm just thinkin' to do what's best for NBO, and the job, in terms of reputation. So, I want to make sure I know my options.

Major Gray stops for a moment, prompting Cole to stop as well. His face is grim.

"I'm always willing to negotiate, but I've heard some Kansans have no interest in makin' a deal. That's the dilemma, Cole."

Taking a deep breath, he continues. "The Indians are satisfied with a few beeves. Friedman told me some ranchers at Snake Creek ain't so inclined. Maybe they have a price. I reckon I'd pay up to dollar a head to move directly along the trail. But I suspect it won't be that easy."

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg #957):

Travis waits for a natural break in the conversation.

He leans in.

This sure beats beans.  Doesn't it? 

Travis smiles.  Genuinely happy in his element and eating city food.

If you don't mind me butting in.  I couldn't help overhear you talking about folks not driving to Abilene.

The smile fades.  A hint of concern crosses his brow.

Is there trouble north?

A scrawny cowboy laughs out loud. He reminds Travis of Yellow Sanders, only younger. Can't be more than 17 years old.

"Where you been hidin', pops?"

In reply to Major Gray (msg #961):

With a determined look on his face, Cole replies...

Yeah, I suspect nothing about this is going to be easy. But, I thought it best to get a good idea of what I have on the table, before we set out in the morning.

Cole then waits for the Major to continue walking, before continuing on.

Major Gray resumes walking. "We need to get the beeves to Abilene on time, Cole. I'm counting on you."

In reply to Randy Oldman (msg #956):

One full plate done, Randy takes a breath while Travis talks to the cowboys.

The pugilist sees Cole, Yellow and the Major approaching. Nope, they're heading to the Drover's Inn.

Cole sees the Drover's Inn ahead. He's been by it a few times, so he oughtta know. He and Yellow also smell food and see a number of cowboys eating under a big tent. It wasn't active like this when they last passed by.

JEB and Deeds linger on the porch after speaking to the Marshal.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg #968):

JEB lights a cigar again while waitin' on the porch and talks to the priest: I'd offer you a smoke, Father, but wouldnt want to offend you. If it dont, let me know. You wanted to speak to me?

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg #963):

A couple of the other young cowboys laugh at Yellow Jr.'s remark.

One of them attempts to join in. "Yeah, old timer, what rock did you ride in on?"

His comment kills the moment.

In reply to Major Gray (msg #965):

Yellow listened with a furrowed brow & finally sighed "Well? I reckon I can help Cole ah might Major. Travis, Jeb, & Randy will help too. If it can be done we'll do it. Don't ya go worry'n none awright?"

In reply to James E. Beauregard (msg #969):

Deeds' lean features drew up into a frown as the Lawman lit his cigar & offered him one "Mr. Beauregard, thanks but no thanks. It is said that your body is a temple onto God. I am of the opinion that we should watch what we put in it. Yet, He has... lovingly given us all free will to decide our own course. No matter how right or wrong that course might be."

The Priest then cleared his throat "I would like to speak to you. You mentioned a cattle drive didn't you? That you were expecting trouble. I am curious to hear how you will avoid it. Perhaps there is a chance for a peaceful solution?" 

In reply to Major Gray (msg #965):

Keeping pace with the Major, and looking straight ahead as they walk, Cole says...

I aim to do just that.

Major Gray stops again, as the three men reach the Drover's Inn. "Thank you," he says, looking both Yellow and Cole in the eye. "We're here."
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:24, Wed 07 July 2010.

In reply to Nathaniel Deeds (msg #972):

Indeed, a peaceful resolution is what we're hopin' fer. My plan is to find someome of reputation to act as intermediary with the ranchers. That's why I went to the marshal, but he's not inerested in gettin' involved. I dont suppose you'd like the job, Father? A man of the Church can be very influential in negotiatin'. You'd be well compensated , of course.

Again the priest pursed his lips in thought. Finally with a curt nod Deeds spoke in his usual even tone.

"Hmmm... well I would like to avoid bloodshed if I could. As far as compensation goes, God has provided well enough for me. However, there is a local mission that could use the help if you feel so inclined. Are you the spokesman for your group then? You said something about a Major? What of him?"

In reply to Nathaniel Deeds (msg #976):

Our official spokesman is Mr. Cole Trayne while the Major leads the herd. Our mission is to clear the way for the herd, either diplomatically or  whatever means necessary. I prefer diplomacy and Cole will defer to my judgement in this matter.

In reply to Judge Messalen (msg #963):

In a good natured tone... Just eating my fill.  In from the range. 

Travis chuckles.

Was I ever that young?

Cole turns and looks towards the food.

Major, I reckon grabbin' something to eat before I see about our rooms, would be right nice. Until I smelled the food, I had forgotten how hungry I was.

You comin'?

Cole then walks on in.

"Follow your nose. Good advice, I reckon," answers the Major, following Cole into the tent.

Looks like they got here just in time. The food is running out. Nonetheless, seems enough for three more healthy plates, at least.

The men from the No Buffalo outfit--both those already eating and those purchasing a plate--can't help but notice each other.

OOC: Closing this forum. Please pick up the thread in Chapter 5.