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08:07, 28th March 2024 (GMT+0)

The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office.

Posted by MaverickFor group 0
Maverick
GM, 45 posts
Fun-loving
Storyteller
Sun 21 Jul 2013
at 17:54
  • msg #1

The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office

This is a two story structure with the Doctor's office being downstairs, and the main residence upstairs.


This message was last edited by the GM at 02:04, Fri 26 July 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 14 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Tue 23 Jul 2013
at 00:58
  • msg #2

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office

The young woman came awake, moaning softly.  As she tried to open her eyes, she remembered many days such as this, where she tried to wake, even ate at times, but fell into dark sleep again, remembering little or nothing.  Her arm ached... it was in a sling.  The walls did not look right... it was not her home.

Oh God, she had no home.  It was gone.  With all of them.

She reached for her locket, then very carefully sat up, grateful that her head no longer ached, that she seemed fully awake.  She saw a few beds around her... was she in a doctor's office?  A boarding house?  She remembered a man and woman... the woman was very kind... and another, a familiar face...

"Hello?  Is anyone about?  Hello?" called out Rebecca, wondering if she were strong enough to stand...
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 8 posts
Tue 23 Jul 2013
at 01:53
  • msg #3

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office

"I wouldn't do that if I were you", Dr. Ramsey McQueen's deep voice rumbled from the shadows.  He'd just checked on her, found her asleep, and then had gone to the back cabinet where he'd hidden a bottle of whiskey, and set about arguing with himself over whether he would have a drink or not.  He wanted one, badly, but he'd promised Clem he would try this time, really try; he did not want to screw up this time.

The girl's voice roused him from his internal debate over the whiskey; he stepped away from the cabinet, leaving the doors closed, for now.

He walked over to the bed where the injured girl was struggling to get up, put his large hands on her shoulders, and firmly, yet gently, pushed her back down onto the bed.

"Blood poisoning in that arm of yours, infection.  I was able to save it and get it set, but you'll need a day or two more of bed rest.  The salve on that arm needs to be changed later on.  We'll clean it with mineral spirits and change the bandages too.  For now, I've given you some syrup with Essence of Nightshade in it - it'll dull the pain, but it make you woozy as hell.  Unless you want to fall over and break that other arm, I suggest you remain in bed for the moment.  Can you understand what I'm saying to you?"
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 15 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Tue 23 Jul 2013
at 02:28
  • msg #4

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office

The teen girl pushed against his hands, determinedly.  "I... let me sit up.  I'm... I'm not sick, I tell ye," she protested, slipping momentarily into her father's home accent.  Her very long hair hung about her like a blanket as she tried to sit up.

She paused looking at him in surprise.  "Aye, I understand.  Dear Lord, where am I?  Who are you?"

Her hand clutched at his arm, her pale eyes staring into his own, as if she was trying to find her answers inside him...
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 10 posts
Tue 23 Jul 2013
at 05:41
  • msg #5

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office

When she fought against him he relented, only enough to allow her to sit up in bed - but he pulled up a chair and sat close beside her, in case she decided to go waltzing across the floor and spoil all his good work.  And it was good work, too, he'd been right as rain that day, no shakes or dry mouth.

He looked at her for a moment - the accent, the eyes, and above all the freckles, Ramsey could spot a son or daughter of the Auld Sod from a mile away; he had his own Scottish freckles come out when he'd been in the sun too long.  Most Scotts he knew stayed east, in the hill country of Kentucky and Tennessee, and western Virginia - but the Irish liked to move further west, through the Territories and into California.  He wondered if she were part of a group going out that far.

"I'm Dr. McQueen, Dr. Ramsey most call me.  Or just Doc sometimes.  You're in my office.  Troopers brought you in a few weeks ago. You've been in a coma, Young Lady. It could be days before I can truly evaluate the extent of your head injuries. You had a really bad fever, and your arm was busted up but good.  My wife and I have been tending you ever since.  You're in the town of Escondido: do you know where that is?  Do you remember your name?  Do you remember anything at all that happened to you?"

If she could remember things then there was a good chance the fever hadn't done any permanent damage to her brain, which was good.  Besides, there would be others who would have questions for her, so it would be best to get them out of the way now.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:13, Tue 23 July 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 16 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Tue 23 Jul 2013
at 16:14
  • msg #6

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office

The young woman blinked, frowning slightly, raising her good hand to her head.  "Its... its all so blurry.  I feel as if I have been asleep for a very long time.  Awful nightmares.  I don't remember..."

She took a deep breath.  The room was spinning a bit, but she focused on the Doctor's face.  "My... my name is Rebecca.  Rebecca O'Dell.  Did you say Escondido?  I... I don't know where that is."

Tears came to her eyes.  "I wish I knew where... where... where..." she whispered, trying not to cry.
Clementine McQueen
player, 23 posts
You can't have everything
no matter that you wish.
Tue 23 Jul 2013
at 22:53
  • msg #7

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

When Ramsey stepped away from the cabinet Clementine exhaled a soft breath through even white teeth; even as she continued to watch her husband surreptitiously from beneath the fringe of lashes that hid the anxiety clouding her sky-blue eyes. She hated herself for distrusting him and hated him for having given her reason; and she wondered at her failure to adjust to the vows that she had made and the life that she had sworn, a life in which nothing had proven to be as she had expected.

Not yet the efficient nurse that Ramsey expected her to be, Clementine busied herself preparing cool compresses; and when she heard the frightened voice call out she hurried to assist. "Hush child, there is nothing to fear,” Clementine soothed softly as she settled on the edge of the cot and began to gently clear the tangled veil of hair from the young woman’s face. “I am Clementine McQueen and this is Doc Ramsey. You are in Escondido, Texas in my husband's hospital. You are safe with us, no one will hurt you here.”

“She is lucid, Ramsey . . . at last,” Clementine murmured,  turning her smile upon her husband as she met his gaze. “Unlucky as she is, she has you to thank for her life. Somehow, it will come out all right, Ramsey . . ." If Clementine meant something more than the soft promise that she breathed as she brushed a caress to the short spiky stubble of her husband's cheek, her meaning remained unspoken.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 19 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Wed 24 Jul 2013
at 00:29
  • msg #8

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"My... my head still hurts..." she whispered, missing anything between the good doctor and his wife, but relaxing with the touch to her hair.  "I remember being... I was afraid... so afraid..."  Her hand moved to tighten on the doctor's arm.

"I was... was it Indians?  People shouting... screams... fire... oh... oh..."

She looked for a moment as if she might panic her eyes looking into the distance at something only she could see.
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 13 posts
Wed 24 Jul 2013
at 03:30
  • msg #9

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

He wondered how long she'd been there, and if she'd seen him at the cabinet...and wondered what she was thinking.  He felt ashamed, even though he'd not taken a drop - although in his mind's eye he'd poured shot after shot, until it was gone.

No!  He'd not gone on that kind of bender, not since...

He did steal a shot of whiskey from time to time; of that he was guilty.  It calmed his nerves, stopped his hands shaking, and quieted the tempest in his head.  At least for a while.  The trouble was stopping at just one shot.  So far he'd managed that...so far.

He hated himself that he was weak, and he hated that his wife saw it in him.  But mostly he was just full of sorrow: they both deserved for him to be better.  They both needed it.  He let his wife's touch caress his cheek, then looked down to their young charge, hopeful that no one saw the haunted look he felt in his eyes.

"The pain...should only be temporary.  It comes and goes, you'll find.  If it gets too much my wife will administer some more syrup to you.  Try not to get too excited.  Rest.  Sleep.  Your body needs to repair itself, and your mind too.  Whatever happened out on that prairie it can leave a scar inside as bad as any outside on your arm."

He looked up at his wife with a sorrowful expression as he continued: "Those type of scars take a long time to mend, and sometimes they never fully do."

He gently removed the young lady's hand from his arm and tried to place it back under her covers.  Then he turned back to his wife.

"I should go tell the Marshall that she's awake.  He may have some questions for her.  I'll just be a short piece.  If her head or arm frets her...well, you know where the syrup is."


He turned and went to his desk, grabbed his hat, put it on, and returned, his body facing the exit.

"I'll just be gone a short piece", he reassured her, feeling like the dog caught in the hen house looking for an egg.

Then he turned and made for the door.

---> To The Streets of Escondido
This message was last edited by the player at 02:50, Thu 25 July 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 22 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Wed 24 Jul 2013
at 03:59
  • msg #10

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

The teen reached out with her hand, then replaced it.  She looked at Clementine, reaching up to wipe her tears.  "I'm hatin' this, ye know?  Like Mama said, a body needs to be knowin' her own mind.  I... I can't find mine..." she exclaimed her mother's Irish lilt coming out as she looked up.  She sat back on the bed, reaching to pull her straggly looking hair and pull on it, trying to smooth it to the front.  "I just don't feel good," she whispered.
Clementine McQueen
player, 29 posts
You can't have everything
no matter that you wish.
Wed 24 Jul 2013
at 23:41
  • msg #11

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

“With time and patience and a little bit of luck and with love to bind the broken bits. . .” Clementine murmured her agreement as she sought to console Rebecca; but in her heart Clementine cried for Ramsey and she prayed a silent prayer that she would find a way to lift the sorrow that burdened her husband’s soul so that she might make him whole once more, “I expect that we can help mend these broken wings and teach this little dove to fly again.”

Her eyes, which had been following him, flashed for an instant before Clementine lowered her gaze to hide her emotion. “Ramsey,” she called to her husband as he made his way to the door, “you’ve had nothing to eat the night long. Return quickly and I shall make you a proper Boston breakfast . . .  please, my dear.” But he was gone before she could elicit a promise from him. Clementine’s gaze remained upon the door, and for a long moment she yearned to be on the other side with nothing and no one expecting her to do or to be; and then the long moment passed.

“And what of you, Miss Rebecca O’Dell?” Clementine’s lilting voice filled the room as she smiled down at her charge. “You may hide behind your hair if it pleases you, but if your mama were here I think that she would tell you that hiding has never made woe be gone.  Talking about what happened to you will bring your mind back, little Becky . . . and when you are ready for talking I’ll be right here to listen while I dry your tears.”
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 23 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Thu 25 Jul 2013
at 04:44
  • msg #12

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"I'm not hidin' behind my hair," she responded, annoyed.  "I've been abed and Mama wouldn't have said..."  Her eyes widened, and then tears began in earnest, driven by the woman's very soft lyrical tones.

"Oh dear Mama... she's... she's dead, isn't she?  And Papa.  Oh, I saw him fall, shot through.  Oh God above, they're all dead, aren't they?  Mama.  Papa.  Bobby.  Mr. Wilkins.  Mrs. Wilkins.  Oh my Good Lord, all dead..."  She began to cry in earnest, trying to reach for Clementine with both arms, even as one hurt and wouldn't move.  Her whole life and family had vanished...

"O, Danny boy..." she tried to sing, remembering a song her mother sang when Becky was upset, the memory coming to her.  But then, she simply collapsed in tears, her life to her, gone, gone to tears...
This message was last edited by the player at 14:44, Thu 25 July 2013.
Clementine McQueen
player, 31 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Thu 25 Jul 2013
at 16:59
  • msg #13

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

“. . . the pipes, the pipes are calling,  from glen to glen, and down the mountain side  . . .”

Clementine gently rocked Rebecca in her arms, holding the sobbing, grief-stricken girl with a mother’s sweet tenderness as her soft, lilting voice sang the poignant melody. It was not the lullaby that Clementine had crooned to the stillborn babe that she had buried on the plains during the harsh journey west, yet she hoped that the heartrending piece would bring comfort to the anguished child in her arms.

“You cry for as long as you must, sweetheart, and when your tears are spent I will help you to begin again.” Clementine whispered as she gently clasped Rebecca to her breast and laid a kiss upon her tousled head.

“. . . for I'll be here in sunshine or in shadow; oh child o’mine, oh child o’mine, I love you so . . .”

Clementine's notes quietly faded away as the door opened and as she turned to look the pale morning light that streamed through the paned window lit upon Clementine's golden hair and her own tear-stained face was revealed.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:04, Thu 25 July 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 24 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Fri 26 Jul 2013
at 00:27
  • msg #14

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca cried her heart out, the words both comforting her as well as making her cry harder.  Her mind was so very confused.  She remembered the collapsing wagon, the fires, the red-faced men with guns.  In her mind, she had obviously lost everyone and anyone she had ever known.  She was alone.  So very alone.  And so she let Clementine hold her, holding her breaking heart.

She whispered the last words... "I love you so..."  Her eyes were closed, she did not know the door had opened.
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 37 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Fri 26 Jul 2013
at 04:28
  • msg #15

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

---> From Streets

Well I'll be damned... is that singing I hear?  Can't quite make it out... "Danny Boy" maybe?  I know Becky's mother used to sing that from time to time, but that doesn't sound like Becky's voice?

Cyrus followed close behind Ramsey into the room and he couldn't quite help but admire the sunlit golden radiance of Clementine's beautiful hair.  And not for the first time since he began paying regular visits to check in on Becky, Cyrus found himself scolding himself for unbidden "impure thoughts".  That's another man's wife you're thinking about damn it!  And not just any man but a good man and a good doctor.  You owe him, likely more than you'll ever be able to repay him... so keep your eyes to yourself and for God's sake keep your thoughts to yourself or better yet get some new damn thoughts!

But Cyrus silent admiration and his subsequent self reproach were cut short when he noticed with alarm that there were tears in Clementine's eyes and drying upon her cheeks.

With a worried glance towards Ramsey, Cyrus cautiously stepped further into the room and lightly coughed to politely announce their presence before he said in a concerned tone, "Beggin' your pardon ma'am, Mrs. McQueen, but are you feelin' alright?  And young Miss O'Dell, who you're holdin', is she feelin' alright?

I mean... I don't mean to pry but if you both would prefer I come back at a later time, well I don't wish to intrude."


Womenfolk... sometimes there's just no understandin' them or what goes on in their minds.

I sure hope Doc and I haven't stumbled into something not meant for prying eyes, though ladies are known to be prone to spillin' their emotions out for all ta see and wearin' their pretty little hearts out on their sleeves.

Rebecca O'Dell
player, 25 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Fri 26 Jul 2013
at 04:33
  • msg #16

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca sniffed, hearing voices, then looked up.  Her eyes were red, her face blotchy from crying, her hair a mess.  And she looked for a long moment at the man in front of her, as if wondering who he was...  Her pale eyes stared...

He wore a uniform fancier that Papa's, but Papa said he was important.  How could he be important?  All that gold braid?  He smiled at her, patting her head...

She blinked, trying not to cry anymore.  They were all dead, weren't they?

"C... Captain... Captain Jericho?  Oh God, is it you?  Ye're not dead too?  I'm not dreamin'?"  She let go of Clementine with her good hand, reaching out as if to find out if he were truly there...
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 27 posts
Fri 26 Jul 2013
at 05:01
  • msg #17

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

---> from the streets

Ramsey couldn't help bit smile a little: that was his wife's voice he heard singing; she must be trying to comfort the injured girl.  Wife or no, he thought, she'd make a good nurse.

"Its Marshall Jericho now, Miss.  He's here to ask you some questions.  You do the best you can, but don't tucker yourself out; remember you need your rest, and the Marshall can stop by whenever he needs to."

He gave a sheepish grin to his wife.

"I, uhhh..., seem to have invited Marshall Jericho to breakfast, if that is alright with you.  It seemed the decent thing to do at the time, but I promise I will make it up to you and do all the dishes for you."
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 39 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Fri 26 Jul 2013
at 05:17
  • msg #18

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca O'Dell:
"C... Captain... Captain Jericho?  Oh God, is it you?  Ye're not dead too?  I'm not dreamin'?"  She let go of Clementine with her good hand, reaching out as if to find out if he were truly there...

Well now... she seems to remember me... or at least the "me" as I was when I last saw her.

That's a good sign, it probably means her mind ain't broken and her memory's relatively intact... best Thank the Lord for any and all such small miracles, especially given what this poor young girl has been put through.


With a guarded glance from Clementine to Ramsey, as if unsure if it was his place to approach their "patient", Cyrus felt compelled to offer what reassurance he could to the distraught young lady laying in painful repose.

With tentative but unwaivering steps, Cyrus approached Becky's bedside and carefully reached out his hand to gently take Becky's offered hand in his as he gave her a warm smile and said in a soft, caring tone, "Please rest assured Miss O'Dell that your eyes & ears do not deceive you.  You are not dreaming, it is indeed me in the flesh... alive and well, just as you are.

Though as Dr. McQueen has pointed out, it is now Deputy Marshal Cyrus Jericho.  I traded in my gold oak leafs for the silver badge about a month ago... shortly after my Troop and I found you and brought you to the healing care of the good Dr. McQueen and his wife."


Cyrus spared a momentary glance over at the doctor and his wife, nodded his head to both of them in appreciation for their "good work" before returning his gaze back to Becky and continuing in the same soft, caring tone, "I am very pleased to hear that you remember me even after all the intervening years, I suppose I must have made a good impression.  Your father, Patrick, was a good sergeant, a good soldier, a good friend and above all a good man.  Both he and your good mother will be mourned and missed.

You have my deepest sympathies for your painful loss Miss O'Dell.  While I know my own grief cannot possibly match yours, please know that you are not alone in grieving their passing.

But I promise you Miss O'Dell that I intend to do everything in my power to bring the guilty to justice and I hope, with your help, that I shall be able to make good on that promise."

This message was last edited by the player at 05:25, Fri 26 July 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 27 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Fri 26 Jul 2013
at 15:18
  • msg #19

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

She squeezed his hand hard, as if to assure herself he truly was real.  Her eyes were wide and now that she was awake, he could see that she had grown up to be as pretty as she had been as a little girl.

Her mind was a whirl in chaos.  She remembered being a girl, playing at the fort with Bobbie, helping the cooks, spending all her time with the Cavalry's horses.  She remembered her Father in uniform, saluting Ca... Mr. Jericho.  He was a Marshal?  A lawman?

She bit her lip as more memories flooded in... Riding Midnight, enjoying the breeze that seemed cool on such a hot day... Seeing Antelope in the distance... calls of Indians...  Circling wagons... Fear...

She blinked, realizing she hadn't said anything, trying not to start crying again.  She took a very deep breath.  "A... A month?  It has been a month?"  If it were possible, she became more pale, the few freckles sticking out more.  "So..."  She took another breath, her eyes searching Jericho's.  "No one... nothing else... survived?"
Clementine McQueen
player, 36 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Fri 26 Jul 2013
at 19:16
  • msg #20

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Cyrus Solomon Jericho:
With a worried glance towards Ramsey, Cyrus cautiously stepped further into the room and lightly coughed to politely announce their presence before he said in a concerned tone, "Beggin' your pardon ma'am, Mrs. McQueen, but are you feelin' alright?  And young Miss O'Dell, who you're holdin', is she feelin' alright?

I mean... I don't mean to pry but if you both would prefer I come back at a later time, well I don't wish to intrude."

Dr. Ramsey McQueen:
He gave a sheepish grin to his wife.

"I, uhhh..., seem to have invited Marshall Jericho to breakfast, if that is alright with you.  It seemed the decent thing to do at the time, but I promise I will make it up to you and do all the dishes for you."


A flush of heat suffused Clementine’s cheeks but she strove to hide her embarrassment, quickly swiping away her tears as she welcomed Cyrus and motioned him near. “Marshal Jericho, please excuse me. Of course I am quite all right, and you are always welcome. Please, Cyrus, won’t you come in?” she smiled up at him.

Seeing the broken-hearted girl brighten at the sight of Cyrus, Clementine realized at once the medicine that Rebecca needed most. Gently letting go of the anguished child, Clementine stood and moved away from the cot; and then, with a searching look to Ramsey, Clementine quietly retreated to the rear of the house, leaving the hospital room to the doctor, the marshal, and the delicate inquiry that was to be conducted.
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 43 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Sat 27 Jul 2013
at 02:38
  • msg #21

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Clementine McQueen:
A flush of heat suffused Clementine’s cheeks but she strove to hide her embarrassment, quickly swiping away her tears as she welcomed Cyrus and motioned him near. “Marshal Jericho, please excuse me. Of course I am quite all right, and you are always welcome. Please, Cyrus, won’t you come in?” she smiled up at him.

Cyrus glanced over at Clementine and nodded his head as he said in a polite tone, "Nothin' needs excusin' Mrs. McQueen, at times like this both tears of sorrow and tears of joy are equally appropriate.  I'm just relieved to hear that you're feelin' fine.

As for your gracious welcome, I am much obliged to you for your warm and kindly hospitality.  I shall try not to make too much of an imposition of myself upon your home."


Rebecca O'Dell:
She took a very deep breath.  "A... A month?  It has been a month?"  If it were possible, she became more pale, the few freckles sticking out more.  "So..."  She took another breath, her eyes searching Jericho's.  "No one... nothing else... survived?"

Cyrus focused his attention back on Becky and he could help but admire the courage of the young woman, he knew she was hurting (more inside than out, he suspected) but damned if she wasn't trying her hardest to hold back her tears and put on a brave face.

Cyrus gave Becky's hand a light reassuring squeeze as he replied in a soft, understanding tone, "Yes Miss O'Dell... it has been just about a month, give or take a couple of days.  You were mighty ill when we found ya and I'll admit you gave us a bit of a scare for awhile as you slipped in and out of a right nasty fever.  But thanks to the Good Lord and the impressive healin' skills of Dr. McQueen and the tender mercies of his kindly wife Mrs. McQueen, you pulled through.

Now as to your other question... well... that isn't nearly so easy to answer.  I don't wish to upset you Miss O'Dell but you have a right to know what truth there is to be knowin'.

I am really sorry to have to tell ya Miss O'Dell that both of your parents have passed on.  I assure you that I made certain to see that they were given good Christian burials... with a Catholic priest sayin' the rites an' all.  Mexican mind you, not Irish, but the same style funeral and I'll be darned if he didn't know a word or two of Latin to be interjected here and there at what I suppose were the opportune times... don't speak it myself, so I'm takin' the Padre's word that that's the tongue he was speakin'.  Very solemn affair but all right & proper."


Cyrus paused and seemed a bit conflicted about how best to proceed before deciding that honest straight talk beat hollow honeyed words any day of the week, and twice on Sunday, "Now as to your older brother, Robert... well... I can't rightly say for certain.

Now please don't get your hopes up too quickly because the truth is there were remains that couldn't be easily identified and it had been a long time since I'd last seen the boy.  I probably wouldn't have recognized you Miss O'Dell, seein' as you're all grown up now goin' from a cute tomboy of a girl to a proper, pretty young lady... except that I recognized your silver birthday locket worn around your neck with the pictures of your dear parents inside of it.

Still... there's a possibility that Robert was not among the dead and thus hasn't been accounted for, one way or another.  If he's still alive, and I stress If because the last thing I want to do is give false hope only to have to dash it later with hard uncovered truth... but if he's still alive, I will do my darndest to find him and bring him back to you safe & sound.

Along those lines... do you think you're up to answering a few questions about what you can remember?"

Rebecca O'Dell
player, 28 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Sat 27 Jul 2013
at 03:25
  • msg #22

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca couldn't help it... the tears came.  She knew.  But to hear it, it was somehow much worse.  And then to hear that Ca... Mr. Jericho had thought to give her parents a proper Catholic burial.  Her mother would have been so happy.

She let go his hand to wipe her eyes and brush her hair from her face.  She was, when she was able to think about it, so very happy that he found her.  He had always been so very nice to her.  Her Papa liked him.

She finally nodded.  "I can, I'm thinkin'.  Anything.  But..."  She swallowed.  "Did ye find a big black stallion killed?  Big horse, had a silver bridle on him?"
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 45 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Sat 27 Jul 2013
at 05:09
  • msg #23

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Cyrus had always had a bit of a soft spot for a lady in distress and he could feel downright uncomfortable (or "malleable like warm putty" as one ex-lover had put it) at the sight & sound of a woman's tears (though woe to the lady who was found out as a faker putting on a false show of "waterworks", Cyrus detested being manipulated).

Cyrus casually looked away to give Becky privacy to wipe away her tears (and to spare Cyrus the sight of a young lady in pain), though he did rummage in one of the pockets of his duster to produce a clean cotton handkerchief which he cautiously offered to Becky to wipe her eyes with if she wanted to.

In response to Becky's question about the horse, Cyrus's mood lightened slightly and a warm smile formed as he replied in a pleased tone (clearly happy to have some good news to finally report), "You mean "Kitty"?  Or at least that was the name etched into the silver bridle when we recovered your large black stallion... alive and surprisingly unhurt.

I suspect he was able to gallop away and out of reach of the ambushers since I doubt thieving scoundrels like that would have willingly left behind a beautiful horse like that or let him keep the silver bridle.  Though I must admit that "Kitty" seems a somewhat peculiar name for a stallion.

But in any case, I am happy to report that "Kitty" is doing well and is in good health.  I now have him stabled along with my own blue roan quarter horse stallion, "Black Jack" over at the U.S. Marhsal's office.  I feed and see to them both on a daily basis."


Cyrus paused because he was reluctant to proceed with "business" after finally being the bearer of good news but the longer he waited, the less sure her memory might become.  With a small sigh, Cyrus added in a guarded tone, "Now Miss O'Dell... do you remember just how many people were traveling in your caravan?"
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 30 posts
Sat 27 Jul 2013
at 06:39
  • msg #24

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Ramsey sat back and allowed the Marshall to ask his questions, but kept a sharp eye on his patient, lest she start to swoon or feel faint.  But he was also wishing more and more that he'd gotten to his bottle before all of this happened this morning.  Now he'd have to wait until sometime in the evening to give it another go...unless he went to another one he had stashed elsewhere, or nicked off to a saloon without anyone noticing - fat chance, everyone in town knew him, and he had no idea who would inform on him and who would keep their mouth shut.

He was better off not taking any chances, and flying right - he knew that, yet...it was hard.  Very hard.  he found himself wiping his mouth with the back of his hand more often than he would like.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 29 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Sat 27 Jul 2013
at 15:59
  • msg #25

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca looked at Cyrus for a long moment, then she burst into giggles.  As a girl, she laughed a lot.  With the young woman, while unkempt and ill, the giggle and following laughter lit her eyes and face with joy and brought out her true beauty, if a bit unexpectedly.  Cyrus had seen the pretty little girl, but the laughter showed the potential of the young woman.

"Oh Mr. Jericho, I am so very sorry!  Ye wouldn't be rememberin,' but 'Kitty' was Papa's nickname for me, as he was thinkin' of me as a kitten, small and always in trouble!  He gave me that bridle when I was 14.  The horse is Midnight, and my very best friend in the world!  I am so happy that ye found him!"

She had accepted his handkerchief, wiping the few tears the laughter brought.  She shook her head, then composed herself to answer his question.  Clearly he had cheered her.

She took a deep breath.  "We had 8 wagons, four of them freighters.  There were four families... ours, the Taylor's, the Sears' and the Hutchinson's.  I'm thinkin' there were maybe ten of the freighters?  We didn't have escort past th' border, and a few of the men were Indian fighters, so we were not worryin'.  P... Papa thought it a grand adventure, he did."  She took a shuddering breath, dabbing at her eyes.
Temperance Peters
player, 18 posts
Salt of the earth &
wellspring of hope
Sat 27 Jul 2013
at 23:03
  • msg #26

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

---->The Streets of Escondido

There's soft knock at the kitchen door of the McQueen residence.
Clementine McQueen
player, 38 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Sun 28 Jul 2013
at 00:43
  • msg #27

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

In reply to Temperance Peters (msg # 26):


After several false starts and certain sadness that Clementine had been determined to put behind her, the McQueens arrived in Escondido, Texas where Ramsey hung his shingle for what he swore would be the last and best of times. Clementine had labored by his side to put to right the neglected two-story clapboard home which would be Ramsey’s office and surgery on the first level, with a spacious area behind that Clementine had portioned into a cookery with a dining and seating area before the fireplace.

Ramshackle, weather-beaten, and in need of scraping and painting inside and out,  Clementine had suffered great pain to set the place to rights, managing to make what little she had shine. As yet sparsely furnished, still the house had what was required, although the cookery and its contents continued to confound Clementine, who before she had married Ramsey had never boiled water. Although what she knew of cooking was more than she knew the month before that her husband had invited Cyrus Jericho to stay for breakfast was enough to make her quake. She had yet to serve up a batch of biscuits that weren’t doughy in the center or hard as rocks.

So engrossed was Clementine with the sifting of flour that it was the second knock-knock-knocking that had alerted her to the fact that someone was tapping on the rear door. Wiping her hands on her apron did nothing for the smears of flour on her face, yet be that as it was, Clementine turned and through the gap in the curtains she saw Temperance Peters. Immediately, Clementine crossed the floor and threw open the door. "If ever there was a sight for my sorry eyes," Clementine exclaimed, grinning as she pushed back a wayward tendril of hair with the back of her hand. "Temperance Peters, thank heaven you are here!"
This message was last edited by the player at 04:36, Sun 28 July 2013.
Temperance Peters
player, 19 posts
Salt of the earth &
wellspring of hope
Sun 28 Jul 2013
at 01:05
  • msg #28

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"Clementine what happened? You look a fright." Temperance stepped in the door motioning for the twins to follow.

"There's flour dusted all over your face. I've never seen you look this way before. Did you find a mouse in the flour sack or something?" 

Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 46 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Mon 29 Jul 2013
at 07:24
  • msg #29

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

In reply to Rebecca O'Dell (msg # 25):

Cyrus smiled in genuine mirth as he said in a friendly tone, "There's no need to be sorry Miss O'Dell, you have a charming laugh and a pretty smile... a good giggle, even at my humble expense, beats tears every time.  I'm just pleased that I was able to see you light up with joy, even if only for a moment.

But now that you mention it, I think I might recall Paddy... I mean Patrick or rather Sgt. O'Dell referring to you once or twice in conversation by that nickname, "Kitty".  I thought there was something vaguely familiar about the name when I first read it upon the bridle.

Well in any case, "Midnight" is doing just fine and will be more than ready for you when you have your strength back and Dr. McQueen says you're ready to ride again."


Cyrus took out a small pad of paper and began writing down Becky's remarks as he wanted to be able to review his notes at a later time.  Cyrus nodded his head and then said in a guarded tone, "So that's 4 families and 10 freight handlers.  If I remember correctly, your family, the O'Dells, were you, your older brother Robert, your mother, and your father... were there any additions to the family after the War?

Can you tell me a bit more about the other 3 families, the Taylors, the Sears, and the Hutchinsons?  Like how many family members in each, perhaps their ages, backgrounds, and genders?  I imagine all 10 freight handlers were male, what were their ages and races?

You see Miss O'Dell, in order for me to gauge whether there might be any survivors who escaped the attack, I have to have a good idea of just how many people were present as part of the caravan and what the group's composition was like."

Clementine McQueen
player, 40 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Mon 29 Jul 2013
at 20:34
  • msg #30

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

In reply to Temperance Peters (msg # 28):

"Bite your tongue, Temperance, that's the last trouble I need," Clementine retorted as a wry smile crooked her full lips. "Rebecca O'Dell came awake this morning and when Ramsey went to fetch Marshal Jericho the clever thought that popped into my husband's head was to invite the man to stay for breakfst!" Clementine exclaimed exasperatedly.

"The last time I made biscuits Ramsey used one of them to balance his bookshelf! I can't imagine what he was thinking, and now I am afraid that they are going to come walking into my kitchen with their bellies rumbling and I'll not have a proper breakfast to set upon the table."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:43, Mon 29 July 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 32 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Mon 29 Jul 2013
at 20:41
  • msg #31

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca listened to all the questions, trying to answer them all, her head starting to spin.  "No, there was only the four of us.  The teamsters were all men, I'm thinkin,' some might have been young, I didn't look too good.  One was negro.  The Taylor's had a girl my age and I think Mrs. Taylor might have been in the family way and... and..."

She stared at Cyrus as tears began to flow again.  "And they're all dead... I can't remember... I'm so sorry... I should have noticed more... I just... just..."

She buried her face in her free hand, overcome.
Temperance Peters
player, 21 posts
Salt of the earth &
wellspring of hope
Mon 29 Jul 2013
at 22:42
  • msg #32

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

In reply to Clementine McQueen (msg # 30):

"The girl is awake! Lord be praised. We've been including her in our prayers morning and night."

Taking stock of the flour covered table Temperance gave her head a bemused shake. "Don't worry about the gentlemen having their breakfast. You've got help in here now. But first, girls be quick and make your presentations. There's work to be done here."

Prudence uncharacteristically steps forward before her sister has a chance. With a shy smile she offers Clementine the continence of her basket.

"Ma and I picked you these Bluebonnets this morning. See, we wrapped them in a cool cloth to keep um fresh. They smell so good and look so pretty they’re sure brighten up a place."

If Prim had anything else to say it's lost as Emily shoves herself between the lady of the house and her usually shy sibling.

"I got a jar of strawberry preserves. They're my favorite so I figured the hurt girl will like um too. This is the next to last jar but that's alright the berry patch is looking mighty good this year and..."


“That will be enough for now Em. You two put your things on that little table by the door please. Then wait quietly.”

Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 32 posts
Tue 30 Jul 2013
at 00:52
  • msg #33

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"Perhaps", interjected Ramsey at the girl's renewed outburst of tears, "we can continue this discussion another day?  We don't want to wear her out, and she'll need her strength for her recovery.  I promise she will be here tomorrow morning to answer any more questions - and if she should recall more of the unfortunate incident between then and now I'll be sure to have my wife or myself write it down for you, Marshall."

He tried to give a reassuring smile to the young lady.

"Young Miss, I know its a bother, but if you wouldn't mind resting for a bit now.  We will only be in the next room if you need anything, and my wife or I will be back to check on you soon.  Is that ok?"
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 33 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Tue 30 Jul 2013
at 04:05
  • msg #34

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca looked up, her face red, and reached for... anyone... with the tear-soaked handkerchief.  "No, please don't leave me.  I am sorry.  I'm not knowin' m' own mind!  I don't want to be alone!"  She looked at Cyrus, pleading.
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 48 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Tue 30 Jul 2013
at 05:41
  • msg #35

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Cyrus looked from Rebecca to Ramsey and back as he said in a reassuring tone, "Well I think Dr. McQueen is right, that's really enough questions for one day.  You need to continue building your strength Miss O'Dell and I refuse to wear you out the first day you awaken.  It won't do anyone any good if you get sick from too much emotional strain.

Now you just rest and wipe those tears and don't worry about what you can't remember."


Cyrus glanced over at Ramsey as he added in an uncertain tone, "All that said Doc, what do you think about perhaps inviting Miss O'Dell to join us for breakfast?  I know you want her to get some bed rest but if she's all distraught over bein' left to herself, she probably won't get any rest anyhow.

I sure don't want to leave the young lady in this emotionally fragile state of mind.

Do you think your wife would object to adding another place at the breakfast table?  Maybe after a good meal, Miss O'Dell will feel more sleepy... feel more like takin' an early morning siesta sort o' speak?"

This message was last edited by the player at 05:42, Tue 30 July 2013.
Clementine McQueen
player, 41 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Tue 30 Jul 2013
at 17:25
  • msg #36

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

In reply to Temperance Peters (msg # 32):

“Well now, my lovelies,” Clementine stooped to meet the children's gazes eye to eye, fussing over the twins with genuine delight as had been her way from their first meeting. “I can’t imagine anything more perfect first thing in the morning than sweet-smelling Bluebonnets and strawberry preserves, unless it is kisses on my cheek from the pair of you,” Clementine opened her arms welcoming them into her embrace.

Above their heads Clementine’s look caught Temperance eye, and she smiled her heartfelt appreciation to the determined young widow who had so quickly become friend and confidant.

“Your sweetness will lift our patient’s spirits, I’m sure,” Clementine finished as she freed the girls from her hug. “The dining table has been laid with room to spare,” Clementine indicated the long table before the fireplace which was set with the few nice things that had survived the journey West. “Why don’t you place these gifts there as your mother has asked?”
This message was last edited by the player at 05:24, Wed 31 July 2013.
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 33 posts
Tue 30 Jul 2013
at 22:29
  • msg #37

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"I couldn't vouchsafe a reply from my wife about adding another at the table, but...as long as she can keep her food down it is ok by me.  The syrup I've given her gives some to upset stomach; but she needs to eat to keep her strength up, and a good breakfast is a dandy start.  What do you say, Young Miss: does solid food sound ok in your book?"

She might need a hand in cutting up her food as well, but it would be a good sign if she was at least hungry and able to handle solid food.  It was food that kept fever away.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:30, Tue 30 July 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 34 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Wed 31 Jul 2013
at 01:01
  • msg #38

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

She nodded.  "I'm thinkin' I might fancy some... or at least be tryin'," she replied softly, her mother's accent coming out.  "B-but I am... I am hardly dressed.  And my hair is so very awful.  And I'll have trouble standin.'  Will ye not be embarrassed t' be havin' me?"

Her question was directed at the good Doctor, but her eyes were on Marshal Jericho, who's opinion seemed to matter more.
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 34 posts
Wed 31 Jul 2013
at 01:19
  • msg #39

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"I'm sure we can wrap one of my wife's shawls on you and no one would mind; as far a your hair goes, it won't be eatin' for you, so I shouldn't worry about it if I were you".

His eyes crinkled in amusement; she had to feel better if she was worried about her appearance.

"And we can help you stand and move about, if you need it.  And if you can't feed yourself, why we can help with that too.  I'm sure the Marshal wouldn't mind helping with that, would you?"

He gave the Marshal a sly wink, knowing the young lady seemed to have an eye on the younger man.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 35 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Wed 31 Jul 2013
at 01:46
  • msg #40

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Surprisingly, she blushed furiously.  "I wouldn't impose... I... I can be handlin' m'self.  A shawl would be nice."

For the first time, was the hint of a shy girl.
Temperance Peters
player, 22 posts
Salt of the earth &
wellspring of hope
Wed 31 Jul 2013
at 02:24
  • msg #41

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

In reply to Clementine McQueen (msg # 36):


Temperance returned Clementine's smile with one of  gratitude. It did her heart good to see someone else loving her girls as openly as the doctor's wife did.

"Time to get to work everyone. I see you gathered up all the ingredients. Once you finished the flour you add the baking powder and salt. I add just a teaspoon of sugar to my dry before I put um one last time through the sifter."


The twins both looked up at her in surprise as she gave away one of the family's baking secrets. But they remembered the earlier warning and remained quite.

"Now Prim's a good hand with biscuits. So she can help you cut in the butter and add the milk. Then trust her to tell when you’ve kneaded your dough enough. I think your other tries may have been a little over worked."


For once Temperance picked her words carefully. Not wanting to hurt her friends feelings.

"Emily I think you should start grinding the coffee beans. A fresh pot seems to put the men folk in a good mood, it did your Pa. I’ll slice the beacon. We’ll have this breakfast together faster than ol’ Robert E can pounce on a mouse."

Clementine McQueen
player, 42 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Wed 31 Jul 2013
at 04:51
  • msg #42

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"Temperance, you and your daughters are a godsend," Clementine breathed her relief as the young mother began to put order to Clementine's confusion. Hanging on Temperance every word Clementine followed her friend's direction gratefully, but there was a telltale blush of shame bright on Clementine's cheeks to have been found so lacking of talent in her own kitchen. However, for once Clementine's ineptitude did not cause calamity, and when the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon began to waft through the cookery Clementine brushed the flour dust from her hands and hoped for the best.

"Please, you will join us, won't you?" Clementine asked Temperance as she hurried to add three more places to the table. "After all your assistance I won't consider you taking your leave without first sharing a bite to eat. Say that you will stay for a little while if you are able," she implored her friend with a pleading glance. "Ramsey will so enjoy a visit with your girls."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:07, Wed 31 July 2013.
Temperance Peters
player, 23 posts
Salt of the earth &
wellspring of hope
Wed 31 Jul 2013
at 05:41
  • msg #43

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"Oh, how I wish we could stay." Temperance paused as she carefully removed the skillet of biscuits from the oven. Putting it to the side to cool.

"But I must say no thank you this time. We have some errands to run and I must be getting home to the farm. Promise we'll be back for a nice long visit soon. The girls think the world of you and the doctor. Come to think of it, so do I."

Caught of guard by her own honesty, the young mother looks away and busies herself by gathering her girls and their belongings. "Now the bacon will be just fine sitting in the warmer. Be careful the biscuits will still be hot for a while. And if anybody says they don't like their eggs scrambled. Tell to use their imagination and pretend that you cooked um sunny side up."

"For that matter, don't tell we were here at all. Let them think this is your cookin'. The good doctor believes you hung the moon. I bet he won't even notice the difference." Suddenly there's a seldom seen mischievous twinkle in Temperance's eyes.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:46, Wed 31 July 2013.
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 51 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Wed 31 Jul 2013
at 07:09
  • msg #44

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

As Becky worried about her appearance, Cyrus casually waved the worries away as he said in a reassuring tone, "Now don't you fret none about such things Miss O'Dell, you look just fine and proper for a recovering patient and ain't none of us here gonna get all picky and judgmental about appearances.

Why... I didn't expect the good doctor's kind invite to breakfast either, otherwise I'd have spruced up a mite and perhaps donned my Sunday best to make myself more presentable as a guest.  But as it is, the McQueens strike me as mighty practical and acceptin' folk... the sort willin' ta "take us as they find us".

I'm sure none of us will be embarrassed by havin' you break bread with us, quite the contrary in fact."


Cyrus chuckled slightly at Ramsey's reply until he caught sight of the sly wink tossed in Cyrus's direction, which suddenly brought the Marshal up short for a moment.  Ahh hell Doc... the poor girl's gotta be practically half my age!  Wait a second... I'm 34... she's gotta be about 17... oh hell, the girl IS Half my age!

Where in the hell did my damn youth go?  Squandered on Buckwhackers, Rebels, Indians... and now Outlaws?  Not much to show for 34 years but it wouldn't be fair to this young flower just comin' into bloom to saddle her with an aging old workhorse of a bee like me.


With a brief roll of his eyes (outside Becky's line of sight and meant only for Ramsey), Cyrus lightly cleared his throat and replied in the same reassuring tone (though perhaps this a slight note of uncertainty this time), "Now don't you worry Miss O'Dell, you're no imposition even if you do require a bit o' help and, as Doc McQueen said, I would not object to lendin' you aid should you need it.

But, of course, I won't force my assistance upon ya if its not needed or wanted.

Now as to a shawl, that's probably a good idea.  I also managed to salvage a few personal items, including some clothing, from the caravan wagons and they're stashed in a salvaged chest stored back at the Marshal's office.  Perhaps when you're feelin' better and are up to it, you can drop by the office and we can sort through the items... or I could always bring the trunk here if you want to take a look at the things sooner.  But that's for another day I think."


Cyrus glanced over at Ramsey as he added, "About that shawl Doc... naturally I think retrieving it is most definitely your department.  But I'll wait here with Miss O'Dell while you go get it and we won't begin our trek to the table until you return with it."
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 35 posts
Wed 31 Jul 2013
at 14:10
  • msg #45

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"I shan't be a moment", he replied, wondering if he could take the opportunity to find other items while he was at liberty to be about the house.  He left them in search of his wife's shawl, and perhaps something more.

(OOC: we'll presume that Doc will go 'off stage' for a while, then reappear; do carry on for a bit...)
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 36 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Wed 31 Jul 2013
at 14:28
  • msg #46

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"You... you have some of my things?  Or something?  Oh, that is so wonderful!" she replied, completely oblivious to any visual things going on between the Doctor and the Marshal.

She sat up, swinging her bare feet and ankles to set them on the floor.  "And it is bein' no problem, sir!  I mean, you're bein' the only one I... I truly know at all, after all!"

She braced herself with her good arm, then levered herself upward, biting her lip.  She stood, swaying slightly, not daring to try to walk.  She was clearly weak... and clearly done with being in bed.  The nightgown hung long on her, clearly intended for somebody taller, outlining her thin frame.  Her freckles stood out and her hair fell in a cascade down her back as she worked to stay upright.  She giggled nervously.

"The Doctor was right... I am... a bit wobbly," she stated softly
This message was last edited by the player at 18:52, Wed 31 July 2013.
Clementine McQueen
player, 43 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Wed 31 Jul 2013
at 17:18
  • msg #47

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

In reply to Temperance Peters (msg # 43):

The thought of deceiving Ramsey pricked Clementine’s conscience but she did not reject the notion outright. It would not be the first time that she had dissembled with him.

“Oh, now there is an unlikely scheme if ever I have heard one,” Clementine laughed merrily at her friend’s suggested mischief. “Ramsey has suffered my cooking too many months to believe such a sudden transformation. Yet I shall speak the fib to see what comes of it as I silently bless you for all the help you’ve been to me.” Clementine hugged her friend, returning in kind all the warm affection that Temperance had shared with her in the months that they had been friends. “I loathe releasing you  but I do understand,” Clementine said, gently letting go. “I shall hold you to your promise of a proper visit, but wait please.”

Upon the sideboard there was a delicate porcelain jar with a fluted cap that had captured Clementine’s fancy years before. The pretty piece was covered with fluttering birds of every hue; the first connected to the last with all the rest so artfully conjoined that there was not a speck of plain left unfilled with brilliant color. As a girl Clementine had often gazed upon the jar while fantasizing about what she would do if ever she were free to fly away. But just now her thoughts were about the hard sugar candies contained within, and before Temperance might shoo her chicks out the door Clementine took up the jar to offer a treat to Prudence and Emily Joy. ”Thank you, my sweet helpers, and now sweets for the sweet . . .” Clementine held out the jar for the girls’ choosing.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:32, Thu 01 Aug 2013.
Prudence Rose Peters
player, 3 posts
Shy li'l Lass
Wed 31 Jul 2013
at 20:40
  • msg #48

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Her eyes dancing with delight Prim gazed into the jar. Then she quickly looks over her shoulder to where her mother stood.

A nod and a smile was all Temperance gave to her daughter. Store bought candy is such an unusual treat for the girls. How can I say no?

Emily's little hand was fast on the draw. The candy draw that is. But she did take time to mind her manors before plopping the sweet into her mouth. "Thank you Ma'am!

Prudence was too happy to pay much attention to this little defeat. "Thank you Mrs. Doctor McQueen, ma'am." 

Feeling the demands of politeness had been thoroughly covered, Prim also reaches into the beautiful jar and picks out a sweet treat.

"That's was fine girls. But now truly we must be going.”
Nudging them towards the door, she helps the twins gather up their things. Then smiles at her friend.

“Clementine stop worrying, smile and enjoy yourself. The others will too. Bye for now.”

---->The Streets of Escondido

Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 53 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Thu 1 Aug 2013
at 18:11
  • msg #49

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca O'Dell:
"You... you have some of my things?  Or something?  Oh, that is so wonderful!" she replied,

Cyrus shrugged in a noncomittal way as he said in a guarded tone, "Well we managed to recover some personal items from the site of the attack, including certain articles of feminine clothing and such.  Although I can't actually say for certain which items might be yours specifically, that's while I'll appreciate you helping to identify whatever you can... when you're feelin' strong enough to do so."


Rebecca O'Dell:
"The Doctor was right... I am... a bit wobbly," she stated softly

Cyrus smiled in a friendly fashion as he moved closer to Rebecca without actually reaching out unbidden as he said, "Yep... doctors tend to be right about such things... and Doc McQueen tends to be righter than most I've found.

Don't you worry though Miss O'Dell, once Dr. McQueen returns with the shawl, we'll see about escortin' you to the breakfast table jus' as easy as you please.

But I am glad to see you've got your spirit back, even if the flesh isn't entirely willin'.  A body will eventually mend if the spirit is willing and one has the benefit of excellent medical care... but even with all his expert medical talent, Doc McQueen can't mend a broken spirit."


Wishing to move onto a more cheerful topic, Cyrus said in a curious tone, "So that horse of yours, "Midnight", he seems mighty loyal comin' back for you and all.

How old is he?  Have you been trainin' him?

He seemed fairly docile and easily managed once I was able to calm him down and show I meant neither you nor him any harm."

Rebecca O'Dell
player, 37 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Thu 1 Aug 2013
at 22:22
  • msg #50

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

She smiled at the encouragement, then wobbled again and reached out, catching Cyrus' arm with her good hand to hold herself upright.  She looked up at him apologetically.  "Th' spirit may be willin', but I'm a wee bit unsteady still!"

Actually, she was surprised.  She remembered him being so very much taller than her.  He was still a full foot taller than her, but he had seemed so very very tall when she was a girl!

She regarded him, her eyes more green than grey this day.  "I figured you would have been rememberin' that I love horses and love training them, even when I was little!  I've had Midnight since he was a colt, and he has been my very best friend for all of his four years."  She smiled fondly.  "He is so very smart.  I can ride him with no saddle and almost never use a bit.  Papa said..."  She swallowed for a moment, but then the smile returned.  "Papa said I rode him like an Indian.  And he's the fastest horse ever.  I'd put him up against anyone!" she added, her voice taking on a moment of pride.
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 37 posts
Fri 2 Aug 2013
at 02:32
  • msg #51

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

While his wife made the breakfast, and his patient and the Marshal talked, Ramsey went upstairs to the bedroom, where he grabbed his wife's shawl.  Looking around to make sure no one could see him, he then went to the closet and pulled out a small truck which had some of his clothes still in it: buried inside was a small, half-empty bottle of rye whiskey.  His hands trembled while he held it, and sweat poured down his forehead while inside a war waged in his heart to take a much-needed drink, or to toss the damned bottle away and be done with it and all its kind forever.  He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand as he considered.  Before he even knew he'd done it, the top was off and he had taken a long pull.  Fire raced through him from his throat down to his feet, and a feeling of intense shame made his face blush a deep crimson red.

Why the hell had he done it?  They were sure to smell it on his breath and ask questions, and his wife, well she just plain always knew.  He could not vex her with his drinking, especially with what happened out on that prairie.  His child had died in the womb, perhaps the only one he'll ever father, and he'd been as useless as tits on a goose when it happened.  Could he have done anything if he'd been sober?  Who could tell; all he knew was that when his wife needed him the most he had been useless to her.  She deserved better than a worthless drunk who couldn't control his own habit.  They had to move on twice because of him: he swore St. Louis would be the last time.

But it was so hard.  He could hear it calling out to him, it had a voice for christ's sake, a voice in his head.  He could ignore it most of the time, but sometimes, like today...

What was he going to do?  He had liquor on his breath, and there would be a cloud around him, he was sure.  He looked around the bedroom, then spied his wife's vanity.  There were several cut crystal bottle of French-style perfume that she'd brought with her from her home when they'd married.  He grabbed the nearest one and gave himself a slight puff under his chin.  After thinking about it for a moment, he gave another puff to the shawl, in case anyone wondered how he'd gotten to smell like perfume.

Then, he opened the window of his bedroom, looked around the street to make sure no one was walking past, and tossed the bottle of rye away.  He heard it break as it landed, and part of him wanted to slam his head into the door for doing that.

He left the bedroom and went back downstairs; but before he rejoined the Marshal and the O'Dell girl, he went to his storeroom.  There he found a small jar of sarsaparilla root chews that he'd bought a week or so ago: they were very strong flavored, and should hide the whiskey on his breath, provided he didn't get too close or kiss anyone soon.  He popped one into his mouth and chewed the bittersweet root quickly.

He couldn't live like this anymore.  Something had to be done, but what?  He'd seen an ad in the St. Louis paper, and he'd torn it out and taken it back with him to Texas.  Peterson's Five Star Liquor Cure, it was called, only two dollars, and it was 'guaranteed to work', which as a doctor Ramsey knew meant 'if you're lucky, and it doesn't blind you.'  Should he take a chance?  What else could he do, turn himself into an asylum?  Who even knew where such a place would be out here, he'd have to go back to St. Louis.  He was a doctor, he should be able to cure himself, if he had any skill.

But it was complicated.  No less a figure than Doctor Benjamin Rush, himself, in 1784, first considered intemperance a disease.  If it was a disease, then maybe there was a cure.  But church leaders always considered inebriety as a moral failing, a sin detestable to God.  Ramsey was no churchy-type; he'd been brought up a Presbyter, like his father and his grandfathers before him in Scotland, but nowadays he felt more like a Universalist: he blended into whatever service was to be had at the time, and was fine with it.  Ramsey tried to be a good man, he tried to be a good husband and a good doctor...but he wasn't always up to the task.  he knew no man was perfect, but...shouldn't he be better?  And shouldn't his wife, who was practically without blemish herself, deserve better too?  And his never-to-be-born child...did he have a hand in his or her death because of his failings?  What fate did he deserve in the life to come because of that failing - what fate did he deserve now?

He needed to go back; if he was gone too long his wife would suspect - and she'd be right, of course.  He'd have to think about what to do later; in the meantime, he would just have to play things along and hope for a bit of luck.

he smoothed his hair back with his hands and rubbed his eyes before returning; the alcohol had done its job, nonetheless: his hands no longer shook, and the voice that pestered him in his head was quiet for now.

But in his heart, Ramsey McQueen hated himself, and wanted to crawl under a rock and die.

Hoping, but not truly expecting nobody would notice, Ramsey turned to head back downstairs...
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:44, Mon 05 Aug 2013.
Clementine McQueen
player, 45 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Sun 4 Aug 2013
at 20:01
  • msg #53

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

“Ramsey?” Clementine called out her husband's name, cocking her head at the sound of soft footfalls on the staircase that led to the upper floor, and when there was no answer she was immediately suspect. Setting aside the bowl of eggs that had been meant for cracking, Clementine quietly ascended the stairs, telling herself that she was not spying on her husband so much as she was following to be of assistance.

Over the course of their marriage Clementine had learned the telltale signs that warned of relapse. Many a night Ramsey would prowl the house like a wild thing trapped in a cage, taking her fiercely in the end when she would offer him what solace and comfort that she might bring. But there was no true release from what tormented him in the sound of her voice or within her giving to him in their marriage bed, although there had been interludes of contrition and resolve when Clementine had dared to hope that Ramsey might at last find the peace that eluded him.

In those intervening days and nights when Ramsey would forsake the bottle he would woo his wife as he had at the start, filling her mind and heart with hopes and desire; and Clementine would come to him with burning passion enough to still the worst sort of restlessness in any man.  In those pretty times Clementine would play her part and together they would present to the world the most enviable picture of devotion and bliss; and, in a few places where they had settled, on account of Clementine’s grace and Ramsey’s skill as doctor and surgeon they had established themselves properly for awhile.

But the darker nights and uncertain days that were too many had made Clementine wary and her pleasure in their marriage was unraveling thread by thread so that there was very little remaining that was crisp and clear in this sepia print of a marriage gone blurry. Such a grainy day was this with everything uncertain; Clementine had known so from the start. One look at Ramsey’s haggard face and a glimpse of his trembling hands had put her on her guard.

For all that Clementine had come into marriage ill prepared for the chores and drudgery required of a frontier wife, she kept a perfectly ordered home; and so it was that in settling their things into right and proper places Ramsey’s meticulous wife had discovered the bottles of drink that he had hidden in the trunks and drawers and in cabinets which he thought would remain untouched and dusty. Once and only once since their coming to Escondido had Clementine dared to pour away the drink and rid the house of the empty whiskey bottles, but Ramsey’s hurt and reaction had been so fierce and sorrowful to witness that Clementine had never done so again; coming to realize that empty bottles were not the cure for the anguish that ailed her husband.

Dr. Ramsey McQueen:
He needed to go back; if he was gone too long his wife would suspect - and she'd be right, of course.  He'd have to think about what to do later; in the meantime, he would just have to play things along and hope for a bit of luck.

He smoothed his hair back with his hands and rubbed his eyes before returning; the alcohol had done its job, nonetheless: his hands no longer shook, and the voice that pestered him in his head was quiet for now. But in his heart, Ramsey McQueen hated himself, and wanted to crawl under a rock and die.

“Ramsey,” Clementine smiled into her husband’s eyes, searching for what she suspected as she came face to face with him at the top of the stairs. “You have my shawl . . .” she remarked at what was obvious.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:13, Sun 04 Aug 2013.
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 38 posts
Mon 5 Aug 2013
at 06:05
  • msg #54

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"Yes...", he replied, not looking directly into his wife's eyes, "...the Marshal suggested that I retrieve it, for the O'Dell girl.  She's...worried about her state of dress.  So, I went up and found it.  I believe...she wants to join us at table, and try solid food.  I figured you wouldn't mind her taking your shawl..but, I can get my coat of you'd prefer not getting your shawl mussed up."

He tried not to sound too stiff or awkward, but he wasn't sure what his wife had seen or knew. He knew she would never be jealous of any attention paid to such a young girl; if her hackles were up it was because she suspected him of tying on a load.  He'd just had one shot, albeit a large one, not nearly enough to get him drunk: but it was the first step down a road to Perdition, and his wife knew it.  She was no fool.  There would always be suspicion; he'd earned that.  But it was better to be merely suspected than confirmed, and Ramsey did what he could to act, talk, and seem perfectly normal.

"Do you need help in the kitchen?"
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 55 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Mon 5 Aug 2013
at 06:37
  • msg #55

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca O'Dell:
She smiled at the encouragement, then wobbled again and reached out, catching Cyrus' arm with her good hand to hold herself upright.  She looked up at him apologetically.  "Th' spirit may be willin', but I'm a wee bit unsteady still!"

Cyrus was quick to stead Becky as he gently patted her hand grasping his arm and said in a reassuring tone, "Well a willin' spirit is a good start Miss O'Dell, steadiness will come with time and rest.

Now you just take your time gettin' your feet under ya.  Don't worry none, I'll be here to catch ya and make sure you don't fall on your way to the table."


Rebecca O'Dell:
She regarded him, her eyes more green than grey this day.  "I figured you would have been rememberin' that I love horses and love training them, even when I was little!  I've had Midnight since he was a colt, and he has been my very best friend for all of his four years."  She smiled fondly.  "He is so very smart.  I can ride him with no saddle and almost never use a bit.  Papa said..."  She swallowed for a moment, but then the smile returned.  "Papa said I rode him like an Indian.  And he's the fastest horse ever.  I'd put him up against anyone!" she added, her voice taking on a moment of pride.

Cyrus smiled at Becky and replied in a friendly tone, "Well now Miss O'Dell... them's "fightin' words" if ever I heard 'em.  Can't say good ol' "Black Jack" would much care to hear there's a new youngster in town billed as the fasted thing on four hooves.  Now I'm humble enough to accept that possibility... but ol' "Black Jack", he's a mighty prideful fella and he takes his gallopin' very seriously.

When you're feelin' better, back to your old self and all, I might jus' have to take you up on that there challenge.  Ol' "Black Jack" and I have managed to catch up to our fair share o' wild Injuns from time to time... so you riding "Midnight" like an Indian is not guarantee.

But we can worry about that "race" at some other time... jus' like a baby bird has to first learn how to walk before it can fly, I'd say Dr. McQueen would most likely insist that you be steady on your own two feet before relying on "Midnight"'s four legs for racing."

Clementine McQueen
player, 49 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Mon 5 Aug 2013
at 08:30
  • msg #56

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

“You are a knight-in-shining-armor, my sweet man . . .  always coming to the rescue of damsels in distress as you did for me,” Clementine spoke softly, extending her hands to him so that he might once more view the ridges of scars left over from her childhood that marred the soft flesh of her palms. “You helped me, Ramsey; now let me help you,” Clementine whispered, blinking back her tears as she brushed a soft kiss to her husband’s mouth.

Clementine knew and Ramsey knew that she knew, but just then was not the moment to speak the truth aloud, and so Clementine sought a diversion that would provide them with a temporary reprieve. “Certainly the girl needs a wrap but not this one if you please, Doctor McQueen,” Clementine pretended consternation. “’Tis my  best blue silk and the very one that you say makes my eyes bright as the summer sky.” Clementine laughed a silky sound as she took the shawl from her husband’s hands, striving to make everything right between them in the beautiful way that it once was. Then, with her skirt swishing ahead of her hurried steps, Clementine quickly made her to the wardrobe which stood against the far wall and selected a more serviceable wrap for her husband’s young patient.

“This will do nicely,” Clementine said as she pressed the pretty piece into Ramsey’s hands.  “Now, you see to our guests, please, while I pray over our breakfast.” Clementine grinned, leaving him with the lighthearted remark that she hoped would make him laugh; and then she turned on her heel and descended the stairs to see that nothing was amiss in the kitchen.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:26, Mon 05 Aug 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 44 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Mon 5 Aug 2013
at 14:56
  • msg #57

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"I'm no' a baby bird, or hadn't ye noticed?" she managed, a bit flirtatiously.  Her eyes shown with challenge, though.  "I'll stand by my 'fightin' words,' as ye call them.  Papa may have said I ride like an Indian, but no Indian could catch me on Midnight.  And beggin' your pardon, you won't be able to either!"

In her expression was the heart of a true horsewoman, with love for her horse in her eyes... and more than a little pride.

Her hand tightened on his arm slightly.  She clearly was using him to stay upright.

"But I'll have to be waitin,' I suppose.  Ye... must have thought me dead when ye found me, didn't ye?" she added softly, looking up at him.  "Did ye remember me?  Did it... make ye sad?"
This message was last edited by the player at 01:53, Tue 06 Aug 2013.
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 56 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Tue 6 Aug 2013
at 05:44
  • msg #58

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca O'Dell:
"I'm no' a baby bird, or hadn't ye noticed?" she managed, a bit flirtatiously.

Cyrus chuckled, although there was an underlying note of unease mixed in with the genuine mirth as he replied, "No I suppose you're not, you've certainly grown up since I last saw you and yes it has been noticed.

That said, I guess I'm gettin' close to an age when the line between youngsters and true "young adults" seems a mite blurred."


Rebecca O'Dell:
Her eyes shown with challenge, though.  "I'll stand by my 'fightin' words,' as ye call them.  Papa may have said I ride like an Indian, but no Indian could catch me on Midnight.  And beggin' your pardon, you won't be able to either!"

Cyrus shrugged his shoulders as he said in a noncommittal tone, "Well I suppose we'll see about that at some later time and place."

Rebecca O'Dell:
"But I'll have to be waitin,' I suppose.  Ye... must have thought me dead when ye found me, didn't ye?" she added softly, looking up at him.  "Did ye remember me?  Did it... make ye sad?"

Cyrus's smile faltered as his face took on a grave expression and he replied in a guarded tone, "Well you certainly gave us all a bit of a fright, especially during those first few earlier days when the Doc was having a time of it gettin' your condition stable and keepin' it there.

Still, we all hoped and, more to the point, we all prayed that you would pull through... and, at the risk of countin' chicks before they hatch, it certainly looks as if our prayers were answered.

As for rememberin' you, well not at first because as I said before you've really grown up in the intervening years.  But after I spotted your locket and recognized your folks, I did remember the cute, rambunctious, whirlwind of tomboyish activity on those occasions I visited your home back in Kansas.

And of course the whole thing was sad, not just for my own loss of good friends and old comrades but also knowin' that you'd be feelin' the pain of that loss even more so than I.

That said... the fact that you were alive and that Dr. McQueen said there was hope for your recovery, well that was also a source of hope and happiness... the lone spark of light in a deep, dark cloud of misfortune."


Cyrus paused and looked down at Becky as he asked in a perplexed tone, "Why do you ask Miss O'Dell?  Don't you think I and others would be saddened by your tragedy?"
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 39 posts
Tue 6 Aug 2013
at 13:23
  • msg #59

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

She knew; she always knew.  And that made his shame harder to bear.  She switched shawls for him, and gave him a kiss, and was very sweet to him - but he knew inside she must be disappointed and angry - but she was the type who bore her consternation within so that people would not see that she was upset, but Ramsey knew she was.

When she left to go back down he just stood there holding the shawl, feeling stupid, then wiped away a tear that had coursed down his left cheek into his stubble.  He gave himself a moment: he didn't want to worry his patient or the Marshal; then he went back downstairs to the office to join them.

"Here you go, Young Miss"
, he offered the shawl to her, then stepped back to allow their conversation to continue.  But Ramsey found his appetite had been quite taken away.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:24, Wed 07 Aug 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 45 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Tue 6 Aug 2013
at 14:42
  • msg #60

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca blushed and let go of Cyrus' arm very quickly.  "I... But... of course, ye would be, I don't... don't know what I was sayin'," she stammered, now unable to meet his eyes.  She realized she had been flirting outrageously... what would her mother have said?  And she wasn't a flirting kind of girl, to be sure!  She might be almost 18... quite nearly... but he was much older and how was that proper?

"I apologize... I'm not m'self..." she added, then breathed a sigh of relief as the doctor brought the shawl.  "Thank ye, Doctor.  That will be just right..."

As she spoke, she lost her balance...
This message was last edited by the player at 03:42, Wed 07 Aug 2013.
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 60 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Wed 7 Aug 2013
at 08:22
  • msg #61

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca O'Dell:
Rebecca blushed and let go of Cyrus' arm very quickly.  "I... But... of course, ye would be, I don't... don't know what I was sayin'," she stammered, now unable to meet his eyes.

Cyrus seemed a bit concerned by Becky's reaction and perhaps additionally concerned by the girl removing her hand from his steadying arm.  With a reassuring smile, Cyrus said in a relaxed tone, "Well as you say, of course we all worried about your safe recovery to good health, but I can understand that sentiment... it can be comforting to know that there are others in the world who worry about your well being, especially when you're feeling ill or distressed.

There's not shame in wanting to be cared about, especially in times of trouble."


Rebecca O'Dell:
"I apologize... I'm not m'self..." she added, then breathed a sigh of relief as the doctor brought the shawl.  "Thank ye, Doctor.  That will be just right..."

As she spoke, she lost her balance...

Since Cyrus had already been concerned when Becky removed her hand from his arm that she would be lacking the stability he had been lending to her, he was already primed in a way for "something" to happen.

This along with his naturally quick reflexes allow Cyrus to act swiftly to prevent Becky from falling to the floor.  Cyrus moved quickly to catch Becky as she lose her balance and began to fall down.

With his strong right arm around the back of her shoulders supportively lifting upwards and his left hand gently but firmly grasping Becky's left forearm, Cyrus carefully brought Becky back to her feet as he said, "Whoa now!  Easy does it Miss O'Dell.

Remember what I said about those baby birds needin' to first learn to walk before they can fly... the same applies to recoverin' young ladies recently awoken & arisen from their sickbeds.

I think ya best keep ahold of me for support for the time bein', at least until I can safely guide you a chair to sit down in.  It looks like you're not quite ready jus' yet to make it entirely upon your own two feet.

Don't worry now, I have you steady as ya please and I'll not let ya go until you're safely seated."


Cyrus glanced from Becky to Ramsey and finally towards the dining room as he added, "Speakin' of which, perhaps we ought to make our way to the table now?  I wouldn't want Mrs. McQueen's fresh, warm vittles to start growin' cold... never a wise move to offend the cook o' the house.

Come now Miss O'Dell, let's make our way to the dining room... nice and easy, one gentle step after the other."

Rebecca O'Dell
player, 49 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Thu 8 Aug 2013
at 00:41
  • msg #62

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca gasped... partially because she was falling, partially because he was forced to use her bad arm for support (thank God it actually didn't hurt!) and finally because his hand on her back was warm and supportive... and made her blush again.

She let him guide her to the table, taking careful steps.  She bit her lip, then looked up at him.  "Ye can call me Rebecca, if ye like.  Its not as if ye didn't know me.  Goodness, ye saved my life!  I think ye can call me by my given name."

She turned her head away so he could see the blush, then let him lead her to the dining table.  There was so much food (to her) and she found she had an appetite as she very carefully sat and arranged the shawl about her shoulders.  "Thank you... for the meal and everything...  I should not be here to partake, and I'm thankful."
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 46 posts
Thu 8 Aug 2013
at 00:55
  • msg #63

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"Careful!"

She's begun to fall, but the Marshal was there to grab her before she truly fell, thankfully.

"I did say, Young Miss, that you would be woozy and should not be long off your feet, did I not?  Please...let's be cautious..."

The last thing he wanted was for her to re-injure that arm, and have the infection come back.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 50 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Thu 8 Aug 2013
at 01:59
  • msg #64

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

She managed a wane smile.  "I can't be a girl that lays about, Doctor.  Your potion makes me woozy, but I will ride.  And walk.  And shoot.  And... and..."  She looked at Cyrus.  "And be back t' my sassy self before I'm eighteen, in two weeks!  I promise ye!"

She looked at the Doctor's wife, taking a deep breath.  "I apologize for making your day so hectic!  Thank ye for the wonderful meal.  Mama would have approved."
Clementine McQueen
player, 56 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Thu 8 Aug 2013
at 05:57
  • msg #65

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

By hook, crook, and a bit of luck Clementine succeeded in presenting an elegantly set breakfast table laid with a generously proportioned omelet that was golden brown around the edges but which Clementine prayed would prove cooked through the middle. Alongside she set a plate of crispy bacon and a second plate piled high with fluffy buttermilk biscuits. Freshly churned butter and berry preserves were at hand, along with a pitcher of cold milk and a pot of piping hot coffee. All was made pretty because Clementine had bothered to fuss, using the embroidered linens that had been part of her trousseau and the few precious wedding gifts that had survived the journey West.

"Please, won't you all help yourselves," Clementine said as she circled the table pouring coffee into china cups after Ramsey and Cyrus had succeeded in seating Becky and then had settled themselves."You are quite welcome at our table, Miss Rebecca. It seems that my husband has brought about a miraculous recovery for you are full of sugar and spice this morning which makes me very happy, indeed," Clementine smiled into the young woman's eyes. "You mind now so that you don't undo the care he's taken of you," Clementine chided gently even as she bothered to tuck a wayward hank of hair behind the girl's ear.

"Eighteen in two weeks, why that makes you a woman grown," Clementine laughed sweetly, sharing a secret look and a wink with Ramsey when Rebecca's pale grey-green eyes were lit and full to the brim with the sight of Cyrus Jericho.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:56, Thu 08 Aug 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 51 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Thu 8 Aug 2013
at 19:51
  • msg #66

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"Oh, not grown yet, as Mama would say," she protested.  "If I'm bein' alone, I'll have t'... have t' be growin' up fast, I fear."

She shook her head, giving Clementine a warm smile.  "I'll be careful.  I wouldn't want th' two of you t' worry more than ye need.  Ye've done so much already!"

She helped herself, shakily pouring a glass of milk, then helping herself to what was not too very much but seemed much for a young girl so recently awakened from illness.  Still, she began to eat carefully, clearly enjoying the breakfast.
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 49 posts
Thu 8 Aug 2013
at 20:29
  • msg #67

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

He stared at his hands; the booze still seemed to be working, they were not trembling.  Ramsey had initially lost his appetite when the shame of his latest failing was undoubtedly noticed by his wife - but then she'd produced a breakfast spread beyond her normal capacity.  However she'd thought about him and his failings, she'd worked, and worked hard, to pull all of this off.  He owed it to her to make an effort to eat, and he found it was pretty easy to get hungry again.

He poured himself some coffee, took a couple of biscuits, added butter and honey, and then took some slices of bacon.  He could not help but give his wife a wide grin.

"Not sure what we're celebrating, but I definitely approve.  Excellent spread, My Love.  Marshal, Miss O'Dell, please dig in, before I forget my manners and become like a hog at the trough."

He mouthed a silent 'thank you' to his wife, marveling yet again at the luck he had to have met and married such a wonder.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 53 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Sun 11 Aug 2013
at 18:12
  • msg #68

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

As she ate, color began to come back to her cheeks.  After finishing her portion of the omelet, some bacon and a biscuit, she helped herself to another biscuit, generously with butter and preserves.

"Oh, I not thinkin' I've ever had anything taste so wonderful!  Thank ye!"  Rebecca spoke quickly, as if she couldn't speak fast enough to avoid talking with her mouth full.  "I learned makin' biscuits from Mama, but these are so wonderful!"

Clearly, she was feeling perkier with food.
Clementine McQueen
player, 58 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Mon 12 Aug 2013
at 21:16
  • msg #69

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"I'm so pleased you are enjoying the biscuits, Rebecca," Clementine replied with lady-like politeness that had been bred into her from birth. "A dear friend shared the recipe with me . . ." she murmured the expected small-talk but the notion that filled Clementine's head at that moment was as far from biscuits and jam as a woman's thoughts might be.
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 63 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Tue 13 Aug 2013
at 07:35
  • msg #70

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca O'Dell:
She let him guide her to the table, taking careful steps.  She bit her lip, then looked up at him.  "Ye can call me Rebecca, if ye like.  Its not as if ye didn't know me.  Goodness, ye saved my life!  I think ye can call me by my given name."

Cyrus smiled pleasantly though he felt a bit uncertain as to how familiar to be with the young lady as he nodded his head and said, "Very well Miss Rebecca, I'll do as you ask.  I don't mean anything cold by my formalities, it is just the way I was raised and taught as a means of showing due respect to others."

Rebecca O'Dell:
She looked at Cyrus.  "And be back t' my sassy self before I'm eighteen, in two weeks!  I promise ye!"

Cyrus nodded his head in agreement as he said in a hopeful tone, "Now that's a promise I hope we can hold ya to Miss Rebecca.

My, my... 18... seems like forever since I was so young and feelin' all "grown up".  I was in my 1st year at the Academy when I turned 18, only a couple of years before the War started... life certainly looked very different back then, though to be sure we all knew things couldn't continue as they were and events would soon be coming to a head."


Cyrus shook his head slightly pulling himself out of his memories and looking a bit chagrinned for having lost himself in thought, even if only for a moment.

Clementine McQueen:
"Please, won't you all help yourselves,"

Cyrus allowed himself a low whistle of genuine appreciation as he settled in and looked over the meal being provided.  Raising his fingers to his forehead in a casual salute to Clem, Cyrus said in an appreciative tone, "Well now Mrs. McQueen, this is certainly a mighty feast you have whipped up for us.  I don't believe I've seen such a good, wholesome home cooked breakfast in quite some time.

It beats old coffee and hard tack any day of the week and twice on Sunday.

I thank ya most kindly Mrs. McQueen for graciously accepting me at your table and for preparing such a feast for the senses on such short notice, you are a true wonder and Dr. McQueen is most definitely a very fortunate man."


Before he dug into his food, Cyrus bowed his head and made the sign of the cross as he prayed softly, saying the Methodist version of grace, "Be present at our table Lord. Be here and everywhere adored. These mercies bless and grant that we, may feast in fellowship with Thee. Amen."  Cyrus made the sign of the cross once again and then raised his bowed head and began to eat heartily.  Cyrus was a fairly religious man who worked hard to keep the Methodist faith he had been raised with but he was not one to force his religious faith or believes on others (hence why he did not request the others to join him in saying grace, it was between him and his God).

Cyrus was not shy about eating nor was he stingy in his praise of the quality of the food provided.  He looked over at Clem and said in a friendly, casual tone, "Would this friend with the recipe be someone from back East?  Or one of the locals here in town?  I don't recall on my few brief visits to Boston having biscuits quite like these."
Clementine McQueen
player, 59 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Wed 14 Aug 2013
at 06:41
  • msg #71

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

quote:
Cyrus allowed himself a low whistle of genuine appreciation as he settled in and looked over the meal being provided.  Raising his fingers to his forehead in a casual salute to Clem, Cyrus said in an appreciative tone, "Well now Mrs. McQueen, this is certainly a mighty feast you have whipped up for us.  I don't believe I've seen such a good, wholesome home cooked breakfast in quite some time.

It beats old coffee and hard tack any day of the week and twice on Sunday.

I thank ya most kindly Mrs. McQueen for graciously accepting me at your table and for preparing such a feast for the senses on such short notice, you are a true wonder and Dr. McQueen is most definitely a very fortunate man."


Before he dug into his food, Cyrus bowed his head and made the sign of the cross as he prayed softly, saying the Methodist version of grace, "Be present at our table Lord. Be here and everywhere adored. These mercies bless and grant that we, may feast in fellowship with Thee. Amen."  Cyrus made the sign of the cross once again and then raised his bowed head and began to eat heartily.  Cyrus was a fairly religious man who worked hard to keep the Methodist faith he had been raised with but he was not one to force his religious faith or believes on others (hence why he did not request the others to join him in saying grace, it was between him and his God).

Cyrus was not shy about eating nor was he stingy in his praise of the quality of the food provided.  He looked over at Clem and said in a friendly, casual tone, "Would this friend with the recipe be someone from back East?  Or one of the locals here in town?  I don't recall on my few brief visits to Boston having biscuits quite like these."

Clementine tipped her chin to look up at the marshal and as Cyrus looked down into her bright blue eyes he could see the purely female pleasure that his company and compliment had brought to her. "Although we settled in Escondido within days of your coming to town, Cyrus; Ramsey and I don't see nearly enough of you . . . do we, my dear?" Clementine's smile faded some as she cast a searching glance at her husband.

Clementine bowed her head for appearance sake but she was silent while Cyrus prayed, not adding her own pious murmurings to his simple invocation. She had had her fill of God's merciful goodness during her childhood when her righteous father would chastise her for her transgressions, striking her palms bloody with a hickory switch as he quoted chapter and versus; and in recent months the senseless tragedy that she had witnessed and experienced had put doubt in her mind.

When Cyrus concluded the prayer Clementine raised her head and once more she looked to Ramsey, this time reaching out to silently communicate as she gently pressed his hand. During the endless, unhurried, blissful nights under the stars during their journey West when Ramsey had been all that she had ever dreamed and hers and her alone; after lovemaking there had been rare, tender moments when he had shared his secrets and offered insight into his heart and soul. So it was that Clementine understood what little trust Ramsey MCQueen placed in Cyrus Jericho's adored God; and she wondered not for the first time if lack of faith was the trouble between her and her husband now.

“I made all your favorites, Ramsey, and surprisingly they are much better than  the last time we feasted at breakfast,” Clementine laughed merrily as she gazed at her husband’s face, and then quite suddenly and unabashedly she leaned in to brush a kiss to his mouth, not caring who might see and think scandalously of her. “In honor of your bringing little Becky back to us . . .” Clementine beamed at Ramsey’s young patient. “Now I expect you gentlemen to clean your plates, and Becky, you enjoy your meal slowly; simply do the best that you can,” Clementine spoke, looking after her guests from where she sat between Ramsey and Cyrus and across from Rebecca.

“The biscuit recipe was shared with me by my dear friend, Temperance Peters. Do you know Missus Peters, Cyrus?” Clementine answered Cyrus inquiry after the fact, asking her question as she very subtlety removed the now half-empty jam jar from in front of Becky to pass the treat to her husband. “If not then I shall see to it that you make her acquaintance. She is a young widow, beautiful to look at and a blessing to know,” Clementine spoke with evident affection for her friend. “These biscuits are how biscuits are done in Michigan, so she tells me.; and that marvelous jam is her gift as well. I can’t imagine my life here in Escondido without her . . .” Clementine’s smile remained fixed as her silky voice trailed away.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:26, Wed 14 Aug 2013.
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 54 posts
Thu 15 Aug 2013
at 06:32
  • msg #72

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

She had indeed made all his favorites, Ramsey noted as he tucked into his share of the omelet, and another biscuit slathered with butter.  And they were delicious, and indeed much improved from her previous attempt at a large breakfast.  Clearly Clem was making an effort for him - and if that wasn't obvious enough, she then kissed him lightly on the mouth during the meal.  This was the second time this morning that she had shown him favor and affection, even after what she surely knew was his latest downfall with intemperance.  She knew his flaws, and accepted him, warts and all.  What had he done to deserve such a woman?  What could he do to return her faith and trust in him, but to redouble his efforts to abjure strong drink, and to focus on him career in this town, and make sure they both had a safe and secure home with which to begin a family.

She deserved his best efforts; but was he strong enough to deliver on her faith?  While he bowed his head politely as the Marshal said grace, he did so out of habit and respect, not from devotion or piety.  In fact, one of the things he loved about his wife was that she never threw out angels or demons at him during their disagreements, nor urged him to pray to a god he cared little for and, following his experiences in the War, had severe doubts about; nor did she insist on their attendance at church, or observe any particular stripe of religion; but, like himself, was always ready to blend in with whatever service was required when the occasion demanded.  The Temperance women he'd met in the cities were full of religion, yet his wife was not like those black-dressed, severe old matrons; yet she carried her objections to his abuse of intoxicants with grace, dignity, and a quiet, yet firm, resistance.  He should look to her for his own conduct, and model it after her behavior, and this he promised himself he would do, as best he could.

He just hoped his best would be good enough.

"My love", he observed, "if there is a blessing in this dusty little border town, it is you, and not just for the food you've whipped up.  You continue to be an amazement and a delight in my life, one which I hope I am worthy of.  The Marshal is right: I am lucky; more than I deserve to be.  But with your continued devotion I hope to earn that good fortune.  I'll, ummm...try some of that jam, if I may, please..."

There was more he wanted to say, but not in the company of others.  When the moment was right, he would speak as he wished, and he would not care how much has hands shook, or how many times he needed to wipe his mouth.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 58 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Sun 18 Aug 2013
at 00:42
  • msg #73

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

With a sigh, the young woman sat back, giving a sigh of relief.  "Oh my goodness!  I've... I've never imagined I'd be so hungry!  I apologize for bein' such a pig!"  Indeed, the girl had eaten a goodly portion of the omelet, a few slices of bacon and two entire biscuits.

She smiled at Clementine.  "Thank you very much, Missus McQueen, for such a wonder breakfast.  I'm reckonin' that I could take a walk now.  I might, as soon as I make sure its all settled in me!"  She giggled.
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 66 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Sun 18 Aug 2013
at 04:12
  • msg #74

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Clementine McQueen:
Clementine tipped her chin to look up at the marshal and as Cyrus looked down into her bright blue eyes he could see the purely female pleasure that his company and compliment had brought to her. "Although we settled in Escondido within days of your coming to town, Cyrus; Ramsey and I don't see nearly enough of you . . . do we, my dear?" Clementine's smile faded some as she cast a searching glance at her husband.

Cyrus smiled with a hint of self consciousness as he replied in a modest tone, "Well that mighty kind of you to say Mrs. McQueen... and here I was feeling like a "nuisance" intruding every few days to check in on Miss Rebecca's status.

Hopefully in the coming weeks all of us will be able to meet under more sociable circumstances when our respective "on the job duties" can be safely put behind us for at least a few hours."


Clementine McQueen:
“Now I expect you gentlemen to clean your plates, and Becky, you enjoy your meal slowly; simply do the best that you can,” Clementine spoke, looking after her guests from where she sat between Ramsey and Cyrus and across from Rebecca.

Cyrus chuckled as he nodded his head and said in a relaxed tone, "Yes Ma'am, that's one expectation I have little doubt I'll be able to fulfill.  This looks to be the best meal I've had in quite awhile and then some."

Clementine McQueen:
“The biscuit recipe was shared with me by my dear friend, Temperance Peters. Do you know Missus Peters, Cyrus?” Clementine answered Cyrus inquiry after the fact, asking her question as she very subtlety removed the now half-empty jam jar from in front of Becky to pass the treat to her husband. “If not then I shall see to it that you make her acquaintance. She is a young widow, beautiful to look at and a blessing to know,” Clementine spoke with evident affection for her friend. “These biscuits are how biscuits are done in Michigan, so she tells me.; and that marvelous jam is her gift as well. I can’t imagine my life here in Escondido without her . . .” Clementine’s smile remained fixed as her silky voice trailed away.

Cyrus pursed his lips for a moment in thought before he replied with gradually increasing certainty, "Hmm... Mrs. Temperance Peters... the name does sound vague familiar.  Is she the widow with the twin girls... Prudence and... umm... I don't recall the other one's name right off hand at the moment.

I can't rightly say that I "know" except perhaps having seen her goin' about her business durin' the day, thus jus' ta look at and politely tip my hat to her when we've passed each other.  But I don't believe we've actually had a real face-to-face talk.

So no... I don't believe I can rightly claim her as a social acquaintance, though not through any fault of hers or by deliberate design on my part.

I would be much obliged for the introduction as I would like to get to know everyone in town as best as I can.  And it appears I have much to thank her for, not jus' for the great biscuit recipe or tasty jam but for having made your settlin' into town all the more pleasant and pleasurable.  Sound like a mighty nice lady."

Rebecca O'Dell
player, 59 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Sun 18 Aug 2013
at 04:35
  • msg #75

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca looked over at the Marshal, and felt a strange emotion come over her.  Was it jealousy?  For a man old enough to be her father?  She felt a blush come over her face at the thought of it, for she had only enjoyed flirting, as she had flirted since she was old enough to know what it was.  It was nothing, right?  But was she truly thinking that way?

She shook her head, trying to hide her emotions by lightly dabbing at her lips.  No, she was not interested in him, just very very grateful for his saving her life and for being the only person left from her past.  He was a connection to her family, nothing more, nothing less.

"Did ye truly visit me, in all the time I was here?" she asked, innocently, trying to cover her embarrassment.
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 67 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Sun 18 Aug 2013
at 05:05
  • msg #76

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca O'Dell:
"Did ye truly visit me, in all the time I was here?" she asked, innocently, trying to cover her embarrassment.

If Cyrus noticed any "reaction" in Rebecca, he didn't let on that he had.

Cyrus turned to Rebecca and smiled in a pleasant manner as he said in a friendly tone with an underlying note of concern, "Well of course Miss Rebecca, I wanted to make sure I would be present should you wake up and... well... I suppose I was keeping tabs on your condition because I felt responsible for you.

It isn't just that you're my only witness to the attack or even that I knew you and your family from back home in kansas, though to be sure that did have the effect of making my concern feel all the more personal.

No... you see Miss Rebecca, there's a certain philosophy that some hold to that when one saves a life, one sorta becomes responsible for that life.  I'm not saying I subscribe that that particular philosophical notion exactly but I do kinda understand the underlyin' principle behind it.

So yeah... I guess havin' been involved in your rescue, I feel a bit responsible for you and your well-being... at least until you can get back on your own two feet."

Clementine McQueen
player, 63 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Sun 18 Aug 2013
at 16:52
  • msg #77

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

The doctor's wife surveyed the now decimated breakfast table and exhaled a satisfied sigh. “This breakfast has turned out just fine for all my worrying,” she laughed merrily. “Ramsey is a brave man to invite a friend for a meal without giving me advanced warning, although it may just be that he is a clever doctor, too. My cooking has been known to bring on a belly-ache or two, and we know he has a fix and remedy for that ailment,” she spoke with wifely pride.

Clementine’s smile shined on her husband as her eyes took him in, and when she was satisfied that all seemed well she turned her consideration to Rebecca. “You’ve made a remarkable recovery this morning, Becky; and seeing you with color in your cheeks and a speck of jam on your chin lifts our spirits for we were all in a fret over you, Doctor Ramsey most of all. I don’t know what my husband will advise as you continue to recover but my best advice is to do as he says. Meanwhile, you are welcome to remain in our little hospital . . . ” Clementine’s invitation was heartfelt and the motherly look she offered Becky was warm and inviting; but in her heart of heart she dreaded having anyone living in the house that she shared with Ramsey.

“As for you, Cyrus, why seeing you come through my doorway is always a sight for sore eyes. I shall see what I can do about making a proper introduction for you with Missus Peters. Perhaps I shall hostess a tea party in a day or two . . .  there are several ladies who have become my acquaintances whom I’d like you to meet . . . what do you say to that Becky? Perhaps you’ll help me with the baking . . .”


This message was last edited by the player at 17:03, Sun 18 Aug 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 60 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Sun 18 Aug 2013
at 17:00
  • msg #78

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca looked at Cyrus, unable to keep a small hint of disappointment from her face, despite herself.  "I'm... thinkin' that I am very lucky ye take responsibility so seriously, Marshal.  Papa said ye was an honorable man.  I... I thank ye."

She swallowed, then turned her attention to Mrs. McQueen.  "I fear I am not much use in a kitchen.  Mama, rest her soul, couldna even get me to make biscuits proper!  But I'll find some way t' help, if that's what ye want.  I don't wanna be in th' way."
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 71 posts
Tue 20 Aug 2013
at 05:16
  • msg #79

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"I advise more rest, Miss O'Dell...and more bacon", he replied with a wink, biting into another crispy, savory slice of crunchy bacon.  "Healthiest thing god put on the earth for man's use, except he hid it inside a pig, knowing that our ingenuity was such that it was only a matter of time before heaven was alive and here on earth...and on our plates.  I might be exaggerating just a bit."

Ramsey felt he was in a rare good mood; tasty food always seemed to do that for him, not to mention his wife's attention, both of which he'd enjoyed a'plenty this day, even after it started out on the wrong foot.  There is no art in making assumptions, he thought to himself, I thought I was in for one miserable day, and perhaps I am still yet: but right this moment I am content.

"Marshal, you know you are always welcome, patient or not."
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 71 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Tue 20 Aug 2013
at 14:22
  • msg #80

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca smiled, shaking her head.  "Truly, I'm not thinkin' I could eat another bite!  But truly, I really feel as if a walk my do me good.  A short one?"

She looked at Cyrus.  "I could get dressed and maybe ye could help me take a short walk?  For m' health?"
Clementine McQueen
player, 65 posts
You can't have everything
no matter what you wish.
Wed 21 Aug 2013
at 18:08
  • msg #81

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

As Cyrus, Ramsey, and Becky continued to enjoy the leisurely morning Clementine made quick work of clearing the table and stacking the dishes in the washing tub to be tended later on.

“Ramsey, this chinaware is the last of our pretty things so please be careful, or if you’d prefer leave them for me. I’ll see to the cleaning up when I return from the Mercantile . . .” Clementine smiled at her husband and then turned to Cyrus and Rebecca. “Our crossing was difficult . . . we lost so much that we had been carrying . . .” a dark shadow clouded Clementine’s bright blue gaze as she remembered but the sorrow was so fleeting that perhaps it went unnoticed. “But our loss cannot compare with the tragedy you have endured, Becky,” she spoke kindly, and once more Clementine reached to gently tuck a wayward tendril of hair that resisted taming behind the young woman’s ear.

After a few moments of talk Clementine extended her hand to Cyrus Jericho. Tipping her chin to look up into his steady gaze, Clementine took comfort. “Your presence means the world to me, Cyrus. Now that Becky is feeling better don’t you dare become a stranger to the McQueens.” Clementine smiled warmly and after an iota of too much she took back her hand. "Now I must hurry to the Mercantile before all the choice bits have picked been over, and I have several other errands to attend as well . . . you'll be fine without me for a time?"

When the last that needed to be said had been spoken Clementine put on her stylish bonnet and took up her satchel; and then after brushing a kiss to her husband's cheek Clementine McQueen was out the door.

TO THE STREETS OF ESCONDIDO


This message was last edited by the player at 23:26, Fri 23 Aug 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 72 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Thu 22 Aug 2013
at 01:16
  • msg #82

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca blushed at Mrs. McQueen's kind words.  By reflex, she too tried to tuck that strand of hair back... to no avail.

"I want to get some clothes on, and I want to go for a walk, and I'm not carin' who takes me fully, but I want to go out and see if the sun is as pretty outside as it seems!  Now, I reckon I have the clothes I came in, so can I please get dressed?  I assuredly cannot eat more bacon, no matter how good it is for me!"
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 74 posts
Thu 22 Aug 2013
at 03:42
  • msg #83

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

He smiled as his wife cleared away the dishes, gave him a quick kiss (again!), and darted out the door to do business.  He too had work to do and supplies to order, but for the moment it was Ms. O'Dell who commanded his attention.

"If the Marshal is willing to escort you I have no worries for your safety; but please, do bring her back if she begins to tire or feel poorly.  We still need to figure out where she will live and what she will do with herself - there must be still some family we can contact back east."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:43, Thu 22 Aug 2013.
Rebecca O'Dell
player, 73 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Thu 22 Aug 2013
at 03:55
  • msg #84

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Becky smiled, then very carefully pulled herself up.  "I shall.  And ye'll promise t' take good care of me, Marshal?  I'll make m'self proper for ye."

Truth be told, she didn't just want to go for a walk.  She wanted to see her Midnight.

Without help, and a bit wobbly, she made her way back to her bed.  She hoped her clothes were nearby.  Her clothes were a simple dress, boots, and a hat.  The dress was long enough to go to her ankles.
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 73 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Fri 23 Aug 2013
at 06:51
  • msg #85

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Clementine McQueen:
“As for you, Cyrus, why seeing you come through my doorway is always a sight for sore eyes. I shall see what I can do about making a proper introduction for you with Missus Peters. Perhaps I shall hostess a tea party in a day or two . . .  there are several ladies who have become my acquaintances whom I’d like you to meet . . . what do you say to that Becky? Perhaps you’ll help me with the baking . . .”

Cyrus smiled shyly as he said in a guarded tone, "That's mighty hospitable of you to offer Mrs. McQueen, though I'm not all that sure those ladies are gonna be all that interested in meetin' me.  But if you're hostessin' a neighborly tea social, I reckon I can find the time to attend."

Rebecca O'Dell:
Rebecca looked at Cyrus, unable to keep a small hint of disappointment from her face, despite herself.  "I'm... thinkin' that I am very lucky ye take responsibility so seriously, Marshal.  Papa said ye was an honorable man.  I... I thank ye."

Cyrus seemed a bit perplexed by the underlying tone in Rebecca's voice but he responded in a polite tone, "Well I greatly admired your Pa, he was a loyal and capable soldier not just in serving me but also during his earlier service under my later Father.  So I highly value his good opinion of me.  As for taking my responsibilities seriously, I hope to continue to do so and clearly that will include keeping a friendly, watchful eye on you Miss Rebecca... at least until you have fully recovered from your ordeal."

Dr. Ramsey McQueen:
"Marshal, you know you are always welcome, patient or not."

Cyrus nodded his head as he said in a grateful tone, "I appreciate that Dr. McQueen, especially as I am still fairly new in town and, as yet, do not know many of the local folks."

Clementine McQueen:
After a few moments of talk Clementine extended her hand to Cyrus Jericho. Tipping her chin to look up into his steady gaze, Clementine took comfort. “Your presence means the world to me, Cyrus. Now that Becky is feeling better don’t you dare become a stranger to the McQueens.” Clementine smiled warmly and after an iota of too much she took back her hand.

Cyrus gently took the hand offered by Clementine and paused for a moment as his instincts almost led him to raising the back of her hand as if to kiss it but his good sense kicked in just in time such that it became merely a slightly awkward but passable handshake.  Cyrus replied in a friendly tone, "I certainly will do my best Mrs. McQueen to maintain the pleasant rapport that's been established between you, your husband, and myself.  As I said to the Doc, I don't know that many people in town and I earnestly wish to remain on good speaking terms with those few whom I do know.

You and the Doc are definitely "good people" in my book and that's true whether or not you're carin' for Miss Rebecca in a kindly fashion."


Rebecca O'Dell:
She looked at Cyrus.  "I could get dressed and maybe ye could help me take a short walk?  For m' health?"

Dr. Ramsey McQueen:
"If the Marshal is willing to escort you I have no worries for your safety; but please, do bring her back if she begins to tire or feel poorly.  We still need to figure out where she will live and what she will do with herself - there must be still some family we can contact back east."

Cyrus looked from Rebecca to Ramsey and back again as he said in a guarded tone, "Well... if Dr. McQueen feels it would be alright for you, his patient, to get a breath of fresh air and take a turn for a spell outside... well... I reckon I see no reason not to do so.  It was shapin' up to be a nice day outside when I arrived, so a walk in the sun may do you good Miss Rebecca.

Though to be sure, I'll be keepin' an eye on ya and your health.  As the Doc says, we don't want you pushin' yourself too hard before you're ready to make a full recovery.

I will gladly escort you Miss Rebecca, but I must request that if I determine that you should return to Dr. McQueen's care, you won't fight me on that judgement call... are you good ta go with that condition?"


Rebecca O'Dell:
Becky smiled, then very carefully pulled herself up.  "I shall.  And ye'll promise t' take good care of me, Marshal?  I'll make m'self proper for ye."

Cyrus smiled warmly as he nodded his head and said, "You can count on that Miss Rebecca, as we discussed earlier... I feel like you have become my responsibility and I take my responsibilities very seriously.

Speakin' of which, this might be a good time to mosey over to where Midnight is bein' stabled and see to it that he has enough feed & water for the day."

Rebecca O'Dell
player, 75 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Fri 23 Aug 2013
at 17:46
  • msg #86

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Rebecca's face lit up and she clapped her hands, or as best she could with one arm bound.  "Oh truly?  Oh, I would so love that!  I miss him dearly!  Oh, ye're a wonderful wonderful man, Marshal!"

She couldn't skip away, but her demeanor seemed to show she would as she made her way back to her bed area and began looking for clothing.  She found her dress, which had been cleaned and mended, as well as her boots and stockings.  She had to chuckle at the battered old hat sitting with her few things she had been wearing.  One of the freighters had given it to her, when she complained that her bonnet did nothing for keeping the sun off her face.  She held if for a long moment, tears coming to her eyes.  She had been wearing it, she thought, which was why it was here.

She carefully dressed, grimacing as she managed to get her clothing on without the full use of her arm.  By the time she was done, she was breathing heavily, a bit dizzy.  She used that time to try and brush her hair, but her hair was far to long for her to get all the tangles out.  Still, she tamed it a little.

Biting her lip, she stood, then made her way slowly back to the kitchen, holding on to walls for support, but happy to look like herself.  She left the hat behind...
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 76 posts
Fri 23 Aug 2013
at 20:04
  • msg #87

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

"You folks be careful; been a few hard cases walking the streets lately.  I don't want to have to patch up anyone, much less either of you.  Not tellin' you your business, Marshal, but if you find trouble while you're walkin' Miss O'Dell I'd sooner you scoot than shoot.  I'll be waiting for you both when you come back.  Enjoy your walk."

He wanted to say the same thing to his wife when she left, but she was gone before he could offer to escort her around.  She was fearless and formidable, but neither of those aspects were known to stop a bullet.  He'd heard of trouble further north in places like Cheyenne, Butte, and Deadwood, and there was always trouble just brewing along the border, but so far the violence and lawlessness in Escondito had been minor...so far.  New people came into town every day, and you never knew who was civilized and who was a bushwhacker liquored up on cheap booze, itching for someone to knock the chip from their shoulder.  He wished differences could be settled in a more manly, civilized fashion, like boxing, as they did in New York and Boston.  But out here, the gun ruled because everyone had them.  Ramsey had his own gun, a small three-shot Derringer he kept in his desk drawer in his study.  He couldn't fathom actually using such a device on another person, but he wasn't fool enough to believe that they might skip through a town like Escondito and never run into trouble.  How they avoided trouble on the trail west, and survived, had been pure, dumb luck.  Luck was not something to be relied upon.

In the depth of his addiction he would never have been able to get near a gun; but out here it was an unfortunate necessity.  He trusted the Marshal, and the other forces of the law, to keep the peace; but it didn't hurt to have a little something extra, for back-up.  but deep inside he also know that, if things got really, really bad, and he could not longer suffer the trials and tribulations of life, if something were to happen to Clementine, for example...well, a bullet was quicker than drinking laudanum. He didn't see things turning out like that, but for a time, especially out on that prairie, he wasn't so sure.  He could feel the call of the bottle again on his senses, and he looked down and saw his hand starting to quiver again, slightly.  He had other bottles hidden about the place, in addition to the one he threw out of the window: but he was determined to stay away from them, today at least.  And if he could do it today, perhaps he could do it again tomorrow.  And maybe the day after that.  And then maybe he had a fighting chance.  But it all began with today.

But the call was strong, and getting stronger.  He needed something to take his mind off of things; perhaps a shave and a bath were in order.  He left the others for a moment and took a slip of paper and a pencil from his desk, and then scratched a note for his wife that read "Went to get clean, be back soon", and left it on the breakfast table for her to find.  Who knows, he thought, maybe if he got himself cleaned up and prettied his wife might continue to show him her affection - if that wasn't worth staying sober for then nothing in the world was.

He waited patiently for the Marshal and Miss O'Dell to commence their walk, and thence continue to the barber.
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 75 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Sat 24 Aug 2013
at 08:26
  • msg #88

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Dr. Ramsey McQueen:
"You folks be careful; been a few hard cases walking the streets lately.  I don't want to have to patch up anyone, much less either of you.  Not tellin' you your business, Marshal, but if you find trouble while you're walkin' Miss O'Dell I'd sooner you scoot than shoot.  I'll be waiting for you both when you come back.  Enjoy your walk."

Cyrus rose from the table when first Clementine and then Rebecca left the table and he remained standing having eaten his fill of the hearty breakfast provided for him.

Cyrus nodded his head in agreement as he said, "I imagine that in a town like this, if one only saw a "few" hard cases strolling the streets, one might count one's self lucky.  As I understand it, there's not much in the way of law in Escondido, present company excluded.  When I was cleaning up the US Marshal's office, I had to patch up more than my fair share of bullet holes, which brought home the message that the previous Marshal left this job posting "feet first".  And as I understand it, there hasn't been any real "local law enforcement" by way of a town sheriff in quite some time... not since the last one went "missing".

As for me, my jurisdiction is a bit hazy as far as what I can and cannot do.  Generally speaking, if it is a local matter then its really none of my business except as perhaps a "concerned citizen"... my bailiwick being primarily the enforcement of Federal Law.  But in towns such as this, where local law enforcement is absent, the residing Marshal is often granted additional leeway to keep the peace locally.

That said... I have no intention of endangering Miss Rebecca's life.  It is all well and good to "play sheriff" when I'm on my own with only my own neck being risked but it is quite a different story when an innocent civilian, like Miss Rebecca, could be potentially placed in danger."


Rebecca O'Dell:
Biting her lip, she stood, then made her way slowly back to the kitchen, holding on to walls for support, but happy to look like herself.  She left the hat behind...

As Rebecca reappeared dressed for the walk, Cyrus noted her use of the nearby wall for support and he carefully moved towards her, offering his left arm (keeping his gun hand free) to Rebecca for support as he said in a friendly tone with a warm smile, "Well you look pretty enough to be headin' to Church in your Sunday's Best Miss Rebecca.  No doubt I'll be the envy of all the young men in town, and no few older men as well, walking with you on my arm.

But are you sure you're feelin' up to this right now?

Please remember Dr. McQueen's admonishment not to overtax yourself.  If you begin feelin' faint or fatigued, do please let me know right away... you'll do that for me, won't you Miss Rebecca?"

Rebecca O'Dell
player, 77 posts
Orphan Girl
Pretty and a bit naive
Sat 24 Aug 2013
at 15:20
  • msg #89

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

She took his arm, smiling.  "Fiddlesticks, I'm still lookin' pale and ye're knowing it!" she replied to his compliment.  "But I don't care.  And I'm a wee bit wobbly now, but I'll be right as rain, ye'll see.  I just need some fresh air.  And t' see my Midnight!  But I promise, if I start feelin' puny, I'll be lettin' ye know."

Rebecca looked up with bright eyes, happy and full of mischief.
Cyrus Solomon Jericho
player, 76 posts
Deputy U.S. Marshal
Jayhawker, West Point
Mon 26 Aug 2013
at 04:00
  • msg #90

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

As Cyrus led Rebecca out the door, holding it open for her to go first, he said in an amused tone, "Well see if I try paying you any more compliments Miss Rebecca... but you know, some folk like the "pale look" in a lady.

Besides... for a girl freshly awoken from a feverish coma, I'd say you're looking just fine... better than fine even."


OOC: ---> to Streets thread
Dr. Ramsey McQueen
player, 77 posts
Mon 26 Aug 2013
at 06:02
  • msg #91

Re: The McQueen residence and Doctor's Office 

Once he saw the Marshall and Miss O'Dell safely out of his office, he continued himself over to the barber for a bath and a shave.

----> to Barber & Bathhouse
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