I don’t own them; I just take them out to play.
Kitty
Matt and I had a chance to look at a Denver newspaper before
we left Dodge. We read about a small
ranch that was southeast of Denver. Matt thought maybe it would be about an
hour from the city. It had fifty acres with a house and barn. We didn’t want
anything too big. Matt was undecided about what he wanted to do yet, but I knew
he wouldn’t be happy being idle.
Our trip west to Denver was an uneventful one. We sat
cuddled together in our seat enjoying being together. Matt had recovered from
yet another bullet and it was a miracle that we were here together. It was
wonderful to be so close. Matt had one arm around me and his other hand was
covering our baby. We both dozed for a while. When we woke it was dinnertime,
so we made our way to the dining car for supper. After that, we decided to
retire for the night.
Doc had seen to it that we had a sleeper compartment. He had
said Matt really needed to rest. He also said, “And so do you young lady. That
baby needs a healthy momma.” I was glad he had made the arrangements, because
we were both tired and it provided much more comfort than our seat.
The next day around noon, we arrived in Denver. We retrieved
our baggage and found a conveyance to take us to the hotel. Our plans once we
were settled was to find out more information on the small ranch Matt had
found. He asked at the front desk where
to find the land agent. We found his office and were pleased that we would be
able to drive out and see the property the next day. It was also nice to find
out that the ranch was only a half hour outside of Denver. We decided to leave
early the next morning so we would have plenty of time to look around and still
get back to the city early in the day.
We had made arrangements for a picnic and a buggy at the front desk. The
land agent had given us directions to find the ranch and the key to the house.
We couldn’t wait to see it.
We both fell in love with the property on sight with the
view of the beautiful fields and the mountains in the distance. It had a creek
running through the property and also a pond. We would be able to enjoy time as
a family there, fishing and picnicking. The house was a two-story with two
bedrooms upstairs and guest room on the first floor. It would make a nice room
for Doc. He had promised to be there when the baby came. He wanted to deliver
it. I really thought that once he came for the baby that we could talk him into
staying. That was my hope anyway.
The house and barn would need some minor repairs and we
would have to shop for furniture. I had put some of my furniture in storage
when I sold the Long Branch. So as soon as we could get the house ready we
would send for it. The living room was large with a beautiful, huge fireplace
that would be nice and cozy during the winter months. The kitchen was nice and big with a dining
area between the two rooms. It was going to make us a really nice home. One of
the best features was a porch all the way across the front of the house with the
gorgeous view.
“Oh, Matt, it is so beautiful. I can just imagine sitting on
a swing here on the porch watching the sun go down or drinking our coffee out
here early in the morning.”
“Or making out with my wife,” he said as he drew me into an
embrace.
Our kiss was slow and passionate and could have gone so much
farther had they been in a different setting.
We decided right then that we wanted the place. After
enjoying our tour of the place and eating our lunch, we headed back to town. We
wanted to make an offer and get the paperwork started for the purchase. The
sooner it was done, the quicker we could make the repairs and move in.
The sale went through quickly and within a few weeks the
repairs were made and we were able to move out to our new ranch. The furniture
that we ordered and what I had shipped from Dodge came, and we finally settled
into our new life. Matt was still thinking on what he might want to do to stay
busy. He did want to buy some horses just for personal use and maybe to raise a
few.
We were both getting excited and anxious for our baby to be
here. I had been working on setting up the nursery in the bedroom next to ours.
This miracle of life growing inside me was a blessing. As we sat on the settee,
Matt placed his hand on my stomach, patting it and talking to the baby.
“Little one, your daddy loves you and your mamma.”
“Oh, Matt. I love you too.
“Kitty, this little one is going to change our lives. I
never imagined us with children.”
“I know, I feel so blessed after all those years of not
getting pregnant.”
Matt put his arms around me, pulling me into an embrace and
kissing my lips first lightly, but it quickly became much more heated.
“Let’s take this up to our bedroom.”
“Sounds good to me, cowboy.” I gave him another kiss before
getting up and heading for the stairs.
One evening, we were sitting in the porch swing enjoying the
view of the mountains.
“Kitty, what would you think if I took up woodworking? It
would give me something to do and be productive as well. I could get what
supplies I needed in town and I thought I would build a workshop onto the
barn.”
“Matt that sounds like a wonderful idea. How did you come up
with it?”
“I have been thinking about the baby and the time Festus
made the rocking mule for the triplets.”
“You’re not thinking of making a rocking mule are you,
Matt.” Kitty said as she laughed.
“No Kitty.” Matt said a little disgruntled.
“Oh, Matt, I was just kidding. I think woodworking would be
great for you and you’re right--it would be a productive endeavor. Did you have
something in mind that you wanted to make after the workshop was completed?”
“I would really like to make a cradle for the baby.”
“That sounds wonderful. I would love it.”
“I thought we would make a trip into town in the next couple
of days to order what I am going to need for the workshop and the projects I
have planned. Also maybe some books on woodworking. “
“Sounds like a good idea; I need some things for the baby
and household items. We can get it all done in one trip”
As the weeks went by, I watched with interest as Matt got
his workshop built, purchased the tools that he needed and started building the
cradle. He really seemed to enjoy working with wood and his hands. He had
bought a few horses and took care of them, but he spent most of his time either
reading about woodworking or building. I was so glad that he didn’t seem
restless or miss the excitement of being a lawman even though it had been
almost five months since he left that behind.
Time was flying and I knew that even though I still had four
months to go before the baby got here it would go quickly. I had been seeing a
doctor in town who said everything was going fine. Matt and I liked him, but we
both missed Doc. I had been writing to Doc and he promised he would be here
when the baby was born. He was working on getting someone to come take his
place. He had been corresponding with a young doctor from Boston who was
looking to come west and start a practice. By coming and taking over for Doc,
it would make things easier. Doc planned to spend some time acquainting him
with his patients and he thought he would be in Denver by the time I reached my
seventh month. I had his room all ready for him and couldn’t wait until he
came.
I was reaching my sixth month and the baby was becoming very
active. I had an appointment with Dr. Atkins the next day, so Matt and I were
going to town for that and to get supplies. We also wanted to check the mail.
The next morning, we headed to town. I saw a rider sitting
on a hill watching us. I don’t think Matt noticed. I started to say something,
and then I noticed him ride on so I just forgot about it.
We reached town and Matt dropped me off at the post office.
He went on to the lumber mill and said he would pick me up at the general story
in about an hour. As I left the post office, I saw a cowboy watching me. I
didn’t think too much of it since I had grown used to it at the Long Branch for
so long. I walked on to the store to get supplies and do a little more shopping
for the baby. I had an appointment with the doctor later and we were going to
eat lunch in town before heading home. Several times, while in town I would
catch a glimpse of this man. As we headed home after lunch, I again started to
tell Matt about it, but didn’t.
Time passed quickly for Matt and me. He had made me a
rocking chair for the nursery. It was so beautiful with carvings in the back
slats and made out of a dark mahogany wood. It was so comfortable. I made a
cushion for the seat and it seemed we were all prepared for the baby’s arrival.
Today was the day Doc was coming. Matt and I were so
excited. We had missed our friend so much, and it would be good to have him
here. I was also feeling a little afraid. Nothing so much about the baby, but
little things had been happening around the ranch and it would feel better with
someone else around especially when Matt was out riding or gone to town.
We had received a telegram the week before saying he would
arrive on the noon train. Matt and I were leaving about midmorning after he had
fed the horses and finished up a project he was working on. A neighbor had
asked for a hope chest for their daughter for her birthday, and Matt had it
just about done. We were going to deliver it on our way to town.
Matt and I stood at the train station watching the train to
pull in. I was watching the windows but so far hadn’t caught a glimpse of Doc.
We hadn’t seen him since we left Dodge four months ago. I was so excited. Just
then we saw him coming down the steps. As soon as he reached the bottom, we
were there. I threw my arms around his neck and gave him a huge kiss. I was so
glad he was finally with us. Matt went
to the baggage car to retrieve his bags and then we all headed to the restaurant
for lunch before heading to the ranch.
We talked about all of our friends in Dodge. Newly was doing
fine and enjoying being marshal. Festus was still helping him and doing odd
jobs. Doc did say that Festus was thinking of coming our way after the baby was
born. Maybe finding work around here and staying. Matt was considering getting
some cattle and if he did Festus could work for him. It would be like old
times. We would all be together again.
The next month passed quickly, I was now eight months
pregnant and as big as a house. Matt kept telling me I was beautiful, but it
was hard to believe. I was having more difficulty getting around and sleeping
was almost impossible. My back hurt especially when lying down and I seemed to
spend more time in the washroom or the privy than anywhere. Doc said everything
was normal and the baby’s heartbeat sounded good. I was so ready for this baby
to come.
Early one morning, I was in the kitchen drinking coffee. I
had been having trouble sleeping and had been rising early. I was just getting
ready to fix breakfast when I heard a noise on the back porch. Looking out the
window I didn’t see anything so I decided to go check it. When I opened the
door, I let out a scream. There on the porch was a dead rabbit. Its head had
been cut off. Matt came running from the workshop and saw the rabbit. He took
me in his arms to calm me down.
“Kitty, let’s get you into the house.”
“Matt, how did this get here?”
“I don’t know, honey, it wasn’t there when I came out
earlier and from the looks of things, it hasn’t been there very long.”
“Matt, these little things have been going on now for over a
month. First, your missing tools, then the horses getting loose from the
corral, and the mess you found in the
workroom.
“I know, Kitty, it is really starting to worry me too.”
Just then Doc came out the door.
“What’s all the ruckus about out here? Don’t you know this
old man needs his sleep?”
Then Doc saw the rabbit.
“Matt, what’s the meaning of this?”
“Doc, I don’t know. We have been having little things happen
around here, but this really has me worried. I think I will take a ride into
town and talk with the marshal.”
We all went into the kitchen. I was still trembling.
“Kitty, I want you to sit down. You need to calm down and
think about the baby, please.”
Matt started on the breakfast since Doc wouldn’t let me. He
was planning on leaving for town soon after breakfast was over.
As we were eating breakfast, I started thinking about the
man I had seen watching me whenever we were in town. I hadn’t said anything to
Matt mostly because it had just seemed like a nuisance more than anything. Now
I was beginning to wonder.
After Matt left for town, Doc insisted on cleaning up the
kitchen. He encouraged me to sit on the porch and enjoy the cooler weather.
I guess I drifted off to sleep while sitting in the swing. I
didn’t hear anyone come up and so the next thing I knew someone had his hand
over my mouth. He had come up behind me. I don’t know why I hadn’t noticed
because the stench of body odor, stale cigars, and booze was very strong. I
couldn’t see anything. In one swift motion, he picked me up from behind. With
one arm under my breasts and his hand still over my mouth, he dragged me to a
horse out behind the house. He removed his hand from my mouth in order to lift
me onto the horse. I let out a blood curdling scream. He backhanded me and that
is the last thing I remember.
Doc
I was just finishing up in the kitchen. Having poured two
cups of coffee, I was just headed out to sit with Kitty when I heard her
scream. Coffee cups clattered to the floor forgotten, as I ran out the door.
Moving swiftly, as only an old man could, I moved off of the porch and around
the side of the house. Just as I turned the corner, I saw a horse racing off to
the north. Kitty was slumped over in front of a dark skinned man as they rode
away. My first thought was to get the buggy harnessed and follow, but they were
moving too fast and I knew it would be pointless. So I prepared the buggy and
headed for town to find Matt.
Matt
As I reached town, I wondered just what I would say to the
marshal. Thinking about the little things that had been happening, I wondered
if I was jumping the gun. I mean nothing serious had taken place. The dead
animals were unnerving, but no one had been threatened or hurt. I shook my head
and almost turned around for home, but something pushed me on to town.
When I arrived in town the marshal was out. So I checked on
an order that Kitty had placed at the emporium. The store clerk said it hadn’t
arrived but he was expecting it in the next few days.
Just then, I saw Joe Rawlings, the marshal heading toward
me. He and I had become good friends in the months that we had lived here and I
had had many a good discussion about the law with him.
“Matt, it’s good to see you. Where’s Kitty?”
“She’s at home Joe. Doc doesn’t think it is a good idea for
her to come to town now that the time is getting closer for the baby.”
“Tom said you were looking for me. Is there a problem?”
“Over the past six weeks or so there have been minor things
happening around the ranch.”
“Matt, why don’t we go over to the office and you can tell
me what has been going on.”
Kitty
Things were dark as I came to. I was lying on some kind of
bed or cot. It was hard to see and my
head was hurting. As I came to my senses, I grabbed my protruding stomach. Relief
flooded me when I felt the baby move, kicking me with all her might. I was so
relieved. At least I knew the baby was okay, for the time being anyway.
Realizing I wasn’t tied up, I started to rise, but dizziness overtook me and
things went black.
Doc
I couldn’t seem to travel fast enough. All I could think
about was Kitty unconscious on that horse and getting to Matt so he could find
her. I was just a few miles from town when I heard horses coming my way. They
seemed to be traveling fast so I slowed making room for them to go around me.
The next thing I knew, someone was grabbing the horse and someone else was grabbing
me. Both men had bandanas on with only their eyes showing. Their eyes were
burning a vengeance. I noticed one of them had dark skin like the man that I
saw riding off with Kitty. Something was very wrong. In a flash, I remembered
the night Bonner brought Kitty back. Like a nightmare coming in the light of
day. Lord, not again, I prayed.
“Okay, old man, we can do this the easy way or not, it’s up
to you.”
“What is it you want with me?”
“That’s none of your concern right now. All you need to know
is that someone may need you and you’re coming with us.”
The big dark skinned man grabbed me and threw me up on his
horse. He then climbed up in front of me and we headed north leaving the horse
and buggy sitting by the side of the road. My prayer was Matt wouldn’t take too
long in town. I knew the longer Kitty was gone the harder it would be to find
her and I was the only one who knew which direction they took her. I knew Matt
could track, but with no clues other than the horse and buggy, he wouldn’t know
where to start.
Matt
Joe and I headed for the jail. As we entered, Tom was
leaving. We went in and Joe offered me a cup of coffee.
“Matt sit down and tell me what’s on your mind.”
I explained about all of the things that had been happening.
“Joe, this morning Kitty found a dead rabbit on the back
porch. Its head had been cut off then it had been slung on the porch. Like I
told you, I had found several other dead animals around the ranch, but hadn’t
said anything to Kitty.”
“She didn’t know about the other animals?”
“No, I didn’t want to upset her. The incident with the workroom
upset her so with it being so close to the house; I decided not to tell her
about the animals. With the baby, I just didn’t want her upset.
“I understand, Matt. I think I’ll ride back out to the ranch
with you and have a look around. Probably won’t find much and I am sure you
have already covered all of this, but a second set of eyes won’t hurt.”
Kitty
The next time I came to, I found myself on my side with my
hands tied behind my back. I couldn’t hear or see much. It was really dark
where I was. I could hear dripping water from somewhere in the distance and a
light even farther away. I couldn’t imagine where I might be or what the man
wanted with me. My thoughts drifted back to the time Bonner took me and I was
starting to get really frightened. My concern wasn’t so much for me as my baby.
I knew the baby wouldn’t survive if something like Bonner happened again. With
those thoughts, I couldn’t hold my terror any longer.
“Let me out of here.” I screamed.
I began to think that no one was there and I started to yell
again when I heard footsteps coming toward me.
“Hush up, woman, or I will stuff your mouth with a rag,” the
dark skinned man said as he stooped down next to me.
“What do you want with me?”
“All in good time, Red.” he said as he ran his hand across
my cheek. “You just lay there and keep real quiet. Maybe when the boss gets busy,
I’ll come back and we’ll have a little fun. Course, that belly of yours may
pose a problem, but I’m sure I can find a way around that.” He laughed as he
walked away.
I wanted to yell and scream at him. The Kitty of old would
have and did, but there was more at stake this time. I didn’t want any harm to
come to my baby. I just prayed Matt would come looking for me soon.
Shortly after the man left me, I heard talking coming from
afar. I tried to sit up but couldn’t with my hands tied. Then I heard footsteps coming toward me. I
realized then that it just wasn’t the one man who took me, but several. Fear
overtook me and tears began to roll down my checks and onto the bed.
Doc
We rode for about an hour. I was uncomfortable on the horse,
but my thoughts were on Kitty and the baby. I knew in my heart that these men
had her somewhere. I just hoped that they hadn’t harmed her. Her bruised and
battered body kept coming to mind. I just couldn’t shake the feelings of gloom
that over took me.
Finally we came to a narrow draw. We made our way through
and came into a canyon. On the far wall was a large opening which I assumed was
a cave. As we made our way to the opening, I noticed for the first time men in
strategic positions. From where they were, I knew they could see for miles and
it would be almost impossible for anyone to get in without being spotted.
I was lifted off the horse and shoved toward the opening. As
we entered, my eyes had to adjust to the darkness of the cave. There were only
a couple of lanterns lighting the large room just inside the door. I didn’t see
any sign of Kitty, but I knew in my heart she was there. There was a table in
the center of the area and crates with what I figured were supplies. I could
tell these people had been here awhile and from the looks of things planned to
stay.
“Why did you bring me here and where is Kitty?”
My gut feeling was they knew exactly who they had and that
this had been planned for some time. Then I remembered all of the little
trivial things Matt had told me that had happened at the ranch. Why would these
men do such minor incidents, when their plans all along were to kidnap Kitty? The
only thing that made sense was that they were scare tactics. The real questions
though were who and why?
The who was soon answered as Will Stambridge walked into the
light.
“Hello, Doc. Bet I’m the last person you expected to see.”
I was so astounded that I was at a loss for words. Standing
before me was a man I thought had been in love with Kitty, so why would he
kidnap her? Finally, I found my voice.
“Will, what is the meaning of this?”
“Matt took something from me, Doc. I am just getting her
back and with interest I might add.”
“Matt didn’t take anything from you Will. She wasn’t yours,
never was.”
“I disagree Doc. If he had just let matters be, she would
have chosen me and it would be my baby instead of his. But no, he had to get in
the way. Well, this time he isn’t going to win. Kitty and the baby are mine now
and once Matt finds us, I will eliminate him from the picture.
“What are you going to do and why am I here?”
“You mean you haven’t figured that out yet? I thought you
came to Colorado to deliver a baby. Well, that’s what you’re here for and after
that I haven’t decided what I am going to do with you. Maybe let you go or just
get rid of you.”
Will then headed back toward where I assumed Kitty to be.
One of the men told me to sit down and be quiet or he would tie me up and gag
me.
Kitty
I was lying there thinking of Matt and wondering if he even
knew I was missing. I didn’t know how long I had been gone or even how long he
would be in town before coming back to the ranch. My mind was suddenly brought
back to the present when I heard footsteps coming my way. Someone walked up carrying
a lantern. They came up behind me taking me by the shoulders and sitting me up
and untying my hands. Slowly they walked around in front of me. I couldn’t
believe my eyes when I saw who it was. For a brief moment, I was no longer
frightened, but as I looked into his hate filled eyes the fear came back.
“Will, why?” I said weakly.
“Kitty, I could ask you the same question. Why did you pick
Matt over me? You knew that I loved you and wanted to give you a home and
family. Matt just wanted to use you for his own needs, he didn’t really love
you. I am surprised he gave up the badge so easily, but I guess he realized how
old and slow he was becoming.”
“Will, that isn’t true. Matt loves me and I love him. We
have started a new life and have a baby coming. Please let me go home.”
“No, Kitty, you are mine now. You should have been mine
months ago. This baby is just an added bonus. We will go away and you will have
your home and family with me.”
“I don’t want a home and family with you. I want it with
Matt.”
By now I was crying and so confused as to why all of this
was happening. I couldn’t picture the Will I had come to know as a bad guy, but
I knew it was true from the look in his eyes. I was frightened.
Will didn’t stay with me long. When he did leave he left the
lantern and didn’t tie my hands back up. I was grateful for that. I was able to
see and I would also be able to sit up and maybe walk around. The area where they
were keeping me was a large room in a cave. In the room was the bed I had been
lying on and a table and also a couple of chairs at the table. There was only one way in so I knew they
weren’t worried about me getting away. It would have been impossible anyway
since I was over eight months pregnant. Had I been conscious on the horse ride
here, it would have been very uncomfortable.
I was sitting in one of the chairs when I heard someone
coming. I stood and turned to see if Will was coming back. I needed to somehow
convince him this was all wrong and to take me home to Matt. It wasn’t Will,
but the sight before me took my breath away.
“Doc!” was all I could think to say as I stood.
He came to me and took me into his arms. I started sobbing
uncontrollably. He held me until I calmed down and then guided me to the bed
and coaxed me to sit down.
“Kitty, are you all right? They didn’t hurt you did they.”
“No, Doc,” I hiccupped. “Except for hitting me back at the
house, they haven’t touched me. I don’t think they will.”
But with the look I had seen in Will’s eyes, I couldn’t be
sure.
“Doc, what do you think Matt is going to do?”
“Kitty, I am sure that once he gets back to the ranch and
finds us gone he will begin a search. You know he is a very good tracker and I
have no doubt that he will find us.”
Eventually one of the men brought Doc and me something to
eat. We hadn’t had anything since early morning. Even though I wasn’t hungry,
Doc encouraged me to eat for the baby’s sake.
I was starting to get tired and Doc urged me to lie down and
rest. It had seemed like days to me instead of hours.
“Oh, please come and get me, Cowboy,” I thought as I drifted
off to sleep.
Matt
The marshal and I headed toward the ranch. I was anxious to
get back home to Kitty even though I knew Doc was with her. Whoever was playing
these sick tricks made me concerned for her welfare?
Just a few miles out of town, Joe and I came across a buggy.
The closer we got, I realized that no one was around. We startled the horse as
we came upon him, but he didn’t attempt to run away. All of a sudden, I
realized that was my horse and buggy. For the life of me, I didn’t know what it
meant. I just knew I needed to get home in a hurry.
Joe offered to drive the buggy home and encouraged me to go
on ahead. When I reached the house, no one was there. I searched all of the
rooms and the barn and workshop. The only thing I could see out of order was
the coffee mugs that had been dropped. There were coffee and broken pieces
scattered all about.
Joe made it to the ranch just as I was coming out of the
house for the second time. He took the mare and the buggy to the barn while I
walked around to the back of the house. It was then that I noticed where
someone had been dragged from the porch to where a horse had been. There were
also boot prints from the person riding the horse. Just then, the marshal came
up. There looked like there might have a been a scuffle and then the horse
tracks head off north.
We went into the house and I started gathering my gear. I
went up to our bedroom and got my gun and gun belt out of the closet and
buckled it on. While I was there, our wedding picture caught my eye. I picked
it up. As I held it I thought.
“Kitty, I am coming. Just hold on, honey.”
I contemplated whether I should have help. I realized if I
let my pride interfere with finding Kitty the outcome might not be too good. I
knew I would need help.
“Joe, you head to town and get a posse together. We need to
find my wife and Doc. I am sure they are together even though it looks like
they were taken separately. We need men who know this area like the back of
their hands.”
With that, I took off headed north following the trail
hoping against hope to find my wife and unborn baby before anything bad could
happen. Praying that it wasn’t another Bonner situation.
Doc
I watched Kitty as she slept. She seemed to be agitated and
restless. I assumed this to be from the fear and uncertainty of the situation.
It could also be worry over Matt. I continued to watch her closely and suddenly
it hit me what was happening. Kitty was in the early stages of labor. My heart
felt like it turned over. What would I do without my medical bag and the
materials I would need to deliver this baby? Matt and Kitty had been through so
much and now this. I couldn’t fathom what the outcome could be if something
happened to Kitty and the baby. I prayed that Matt was on his way and would
find us soon.
Matt
As I headed north, I couldn’t help but wonder who could have
kidnapped Kitty and Doc. I felt without a doubt that it was someone from my
past, but couldn’t imagine who. The trail wasn’t hard to follow. It was almost
like whomever it was they wanted to be found. This made me extra cautious
because if that was the case they would be watching for me and I didn’t want to
be seen. With this in mind, I slowed my progress. I had been traveling about an
hour so I knew the marshal would have had time to get to town, send the
telegram, get a few men together, and head out.
I traveled another half an hour and saw a grove of trees up ahead.
The trail was still easy to read, but I decided to travel to that grove and
rest my horse giving Joe and his men time to catch up. I couldn’t do anything
alone and this would give me time to come up with a plan for when we did catch
up to the kidnappers.
As I entered the stand of trees, I followed the trail north
with my eyes. I could make out what appeared to be a draw or passage about an
hour away. As I concentrated, I could make out movement in the rocks to the
west of what I now decided was a draw. I realized that I had probably come to
the hideout. My guess was that there were at least two men in those rocks as
lookouts. Through the passage, I was sure we would find a canyon and possibly a
cave, and Kitty. It seemed like providence had stopped me just in time to keep
from riding into a trap. This knowledge gave me hope and time to make plans
before Joe and the posse arrived.
I loosened the cinch on the horse and led him to a stream.
After he drank, then so did I. I sat down leaning up against a tree planning
what our next move would be when the men arrived. At least two men would need
to circle around and climb up the rocks on the east side of the passage. Two
more could climb up the west side and take out the lookouts. I was hoping that
someone Joe brought out would know this area and what lay inside the draw and
if there was a back way in. Contemplating all of this, I sat back and waited.
My thoughts went back to the night before. Kitty and I had
been sitting on the porch talking after Doc went to bed. It was a lovely clear
cool evening with a full moon shining bright overhead. I had my arm draped
around her with my nose in her hair. It felt so good to be free from the fears
that Dodge always represented and the responsibilities that went with the
badge. I drew her closer to me, lifting her chin and looking into her brilliant
blue eyes. The love and desire I saw was all the encouragement I needed. I
brought my lips to hers and kissed her with a passion that we had known for
years. After the kiss, I stood taking her by the hand and leading her inside
and up to our room. Our passion knew no bounds and we both lay entwined in each
other’s arms. Our love making had not lost any of its excitement in all of the
years we had been together.
Coming back to the present, I heard horses coming from the
south. I got up and walked to the clearing hoping to get the posse’s attention
before they were noticed by the men at the draw. While I had been waiting a
plan began to form. If all went well we should be able to get through the pass
and find Kitty and Doc.
Kitty
Before I even woke up fully, I knew something was happening.
I had felt twinges all day, but this was more. Just then a sharp pain wrapped
around my middle and into my back. My eyes popped open and I frantically looked
for Doc.
“Doc!”
“I’m here, Kitty.”
“Something is happening, Doc. You’ve got to help me. I can’t
lose this baby.”
I started sobbing. I was so scared and I wanted Matt.
“Kitty, you are in labor. I want you to lie still and take deep
breaths to help you relax. We are going to get through this and deliver a
healthy baby.”
“Doc, you don’t have your bag or any of the tools you need
to deliver this baby.”
“We aren’t going to worry about that now. Let’s just take it
one step at a time.”
About that time, Will came back to the area where he had Doc
and me.
“What’s going on Doc.?”
“Well, Will, I’ll tell you what’s going on. Kitty is in
labor. I am going to need hot water and plenty of clean material. I don’t know
why you kidnapped Kitty, but it was a fool thing to do.”
“That’s why I got you too, Doc. I have been watching Kitty
and Matt for a while now. I knew she was getting close to birthing this baby.
That’s why I chose now. I wanted to take this away from Matt just like he took
Kitty away from me.”
“That’s hogwash, Will. Matt didn’t take something you never
had. Kitty was never yours and never will be.”
“We’ll see about that Doc. We’ll see.”
“Would you two stop it? Will, I was never yours. I love Matt
and I always will. Our love is forever and no matter what you do to me or where
you take me, Matt will find us.”
Just then another contraction hit me with a vengeance.
“Doc, the pains are getting closer together and stronger.”
“I know sweetheart. Just ride them out taking deep breaths.”
“I need to stand and walk, Doc.”
As I stood up with Doc’s help, I felt a gush and water
running down my legs. Then I realized my water had broken. The doctor in town
had told me that when my water broke labor could advance quickly.
I was so scared and all I could think of was “Matt, I need
you.”
Matt
Once Joe introduced me to the men, I started filling them in
on my plan. One of the men, a nearby rancher named Jake, knew the area well. He
told me there was a cave at the back of the canyon and where to find a back
entrance. I sent Charlie and Ben to deal with the guards. The two others were
to circle around and come up into the rocks on the east side of the draw. Jake
would show Joe and me the back entrance. Once the guards on the west side were
taken out and our four guys were in place, they would make their way closer to
the cave. Then they were to wait for some kind of signal from the three of us
that we were inside.
“Any questions? Once we get into the cave, we have to be
careful. I don’t want Kitty or Doc hurt.”
I set a time frame and we set the plan in motion. As Jake,
Joe, and I made our way around to the back side of the canyon, Charlie and Ben
worked their way toward the west side of the draw. As we made our way around
the back side of the canyon, I heard gunshots. Hoping that nothing had happened
to any of the men, Jake, Joe, and I made it to the back entrance and were
working our way through the cave.
Joe watched our back as we made our way forward. We came
upon a large area with crates and other supplies. It looked like these guys
were set in for the long haul. When we reached this area, I could see the
entrance. Just then I saw the rest of the posse on either side of it. I was
relieved they were all okay.
About that time, two men moved into the area. I hollered,
“Hold it!” They both drew and fired at the same time Joe and I did. Both men
went down, hit square in the chest.
I heard running and screaming at the same time. I recognized
the screams. It was Kitty. Just then, I heard “Don’t move.” I looked behind me
and couldn’t believe my eyes.
Will Stambridge stood before me with a gun pointing at my
chest.
“Drop the gun Dillon. Better tell your friends there and
those outside to drop theirs too or you’re a dead man.”
“The same could go for you, Stambridge.”
“Maybe, but I have the ace in the hole. Your wife.”
I realized that the best thing would be to drop the guns. I
figured I could come up with another plan soon enough. Most of Will’s men were out;
I just had to make sure Kitty was safe before I made a move.
“Okay, have it your way for now, Stambridge. Men drop your
guns.”
I noticed only three of the posse came in the entrance. That
gave me a man still outside. An advantage for when I needed it.
Two men came and picked up our guns. Will took mine.
“Dillon, I am going to give you a chance. We’re going to
have a showdown and may the best man win.”
Just then I heard a scream.
“Kitty!”
“What have you done to my wife?”
“Your wife is in labor.”
“Let me go to her. I need to be there for her.”
“Sorry, marshal, but she isn’t your concern anymore. She
belongs to me now and so does this baby. As soon as I take care of you and this
baby is born, I am taking her away to become my wife like she should have
months ago.”
“What are you talking about, Stambridge? She wasn’t going to
become your wife.”
“That’s where you’re wrong. If you hadn’t interfered, we
would be together right now. You never loved her; you just used her to satisfy
your own needs. You never planned to marry her, but you couldn’t stand it when
you thought she would marry me. I guess your pride got hurt. I don’t know how
you talked her into being with you, but that’s over now. She’s mine and so is
the baby.”
I realized then that Stambridge had lost it. He was living
in a fantasy world. It looked like the only way to deal with the situation was the
gunfight. After the one in Dodge, I had hoped gun fighting would be behind me.
I guess I was wrong. I just hoped when the smoke cleared, I would be the one
left standing.
“Okay, Stambridge, let’s get this over with.”
Again, I heard Kitty scream. The contractions must be
getting closer together. I needed to get this gunfight behind me. I wanted to
be there for the birth of my child.
Will motioned with the gun for us to move along outside.
Once situated, he started talking. At
first, I thought he was out of his mind, but then I heard the name Bonner and I
started listening very closely.
“Dillon, I really thought I had taken care of this situation
and wouldn’t actually have to draw against you. It seems that didn’t work out
so here we are.”
“What are you talking about, Stambridge?”
“Why that Bonner kid, of course. You remember him some five
months ago in Dodge? I just happened to run across him in St. Louis. Couldn’t
believe my luck when I found out he was the kid brother to Virgil and Jude.
What better person to take out the great Matt Dillon than a Bonner? I found out
through associates that you had married Kitty and were back in Dodge. So I
hired Bonner to kill you however he chose to do it. Dumb kid should have shot
you in the back, but he just knew he was fast enough to take you down. Now I
guess I will have to do it.”
“What makes you so sure that you can do it?”
“I have the advantage because I have a distraction. Your
mind will be on your wife instead of on me. That’s how I will do it.”
I couldn’t believe how confident he was maybe a little too
confident. I placed my feet square, cleared my mind, ready to face him. His
lackey brought me my gun. I placed it in my holster and stood ready.
“Dillon, I hope you’re prepared to meet your maker.”
“I think it’s you who needs to be ready, Stambridge.”
With that, I primed myself for the showdown. As I watched
and waited, it seemed like an eternity, but was actually only a few seconds. I
saw Will go for his gun just as I heard Kitty scream. Shots were fired and I
felt a searing pain in my left shoulder. Taking a deep breath I looked over
where Stambridge had been standing. Only he was no longer there, but lying on
the ground. Holding my shoulder, I walked to him and looked down.
“Sorry, man, but Kitty’s and my love for each other is forever.
No matter what had happened here today, you would have lost,” I said to the
dead man lying before me.
I left Joe and the posse to take care of the mess and I ran
into the cave. I needed to get to Kitty and prayed I wasn’t too late for the
birth of our baby.
Just as I entered the large area where she was, I heard her
scream again.
“Doc!”
“Matt, get over here. The baby is coming.”
I ran over and knelt down beside Kitty taking her hand and
brushing the hair from her forehead. I leaned in and kissed her lightly on the
lips.
“Kitty, I’m here and I love you.”
She turned and looked at me with such love and pain.
Just then, she was hit with another contraction.
“Okay, Kitty, push. Let’s bring this baby into the world to
meet his mama and papa.”
Through the pain, Kitty looked at Doc and said, “It’s a her,
Doc.”
With the next push, I watched as Kitty delivered a beautiful
baby girl with tufts of red hair just like her mama.
I reached up and wiped the sweat from Kitty’s face, kissed
her, and told her I loved her.
Kitty
I couldn’t believe it was over and our daughter was here. I
watched Doc clean her up and check her over. He wrapped her in a towel he had
found in the supplies.
“Kitty, Matt, you have a fine healthy baby girl. My guess is
she weighs about five and a half pounds. How would papa like to hold this
little one while I check out mama?”
I watched Doc give the baby to Matt. What a sight to behold,
my big cowboy with his tiny daughter in his arms. More love than I thought
possible filled my heart for them.
As soon as Doc was done with me he left in search of a way
home. The baby started to cry and instinct let me know she was hungry. Matt
placed her in my arms and unbuttoning my shirtwaist, I put her to my breast.
She was quick to latch on and I saw she was going have an appetite like her
papa.
“Matt, we hadn’t decided for sure on a name. Is there any
particular name you liked?”
We had talked about names over the past several months, but
hadn’t settled on any particular one. I did have a name in mind, yet I wanted
to give Matt a chance to pick. We had both agreed that we didn’t want to use
our names for the baby.
“Kitty, I really haven’t thought much about it lately, but of
all the names we discussed, I was partial to Ella.”
“Matt, that is the name I had in mind too.”
When Doc came back, he walked over admiring the little one
in my arms.
“Well, young lady, have you two picked out a name for her
yet or is she going to be nameless for a while?”
“Doc, I would like for you to meet Ella Grace Dillon.”
Several days later, I was sitting in the rocking chair in
the nursery feeding Ella. Matt came in and just stood watching.
“What ya need, Cowboy?”
“Oh nothing, I just love to watch my wife and my daughter
bonding in the most intimate way. It’s a sight to behold, Kitty.”
Two weeks after we got back home from our ordeal, Joe
Rawlins, his wife, Marie, and their three year old son, Mark, came for a visit
bringing a gift for Ella.
As we enjoyed our visit, Mark was investigating Ella. She
was lying in her cradle in the living room.
He would caress her cheek and then bend over to kiss her. As he stared
at her, she opened her eyes. In that instance, I watched a bond form between
the two. As they looked into each other’s eyes, it was as if they looked into
each other’s heart.
Ella, Matt and I settled into our lives on the ranch.
Despite all the hardships and nightmares Matt and I had lived through, the
miracle of Ella’s birth bound us together with a love that would last forever.
Epilogue
Kitty
Here I sit on our front porch watching Matt down at the pond
fishing with our two grandsons. At three and six, Mattie and Joey are the joy
of our lives. They live just close enough for us to spoil, but far enough away
to still have our privacy.
I can’t believe that our daughter, Ella, will be twenty-five
in a week. Time has gone by so quickly. It just seems like yesterday that she
was a tiny baby.
Seven years ago, she married her first and only love and
best friend. The bond I had witnessed between Mark Rawlins and Ella that long
ago day became a lifetime commitment.
After their wedding, they settled into the ranch house Matt
and I bought. We had added more acreage to our ranch and purchased cattle and
horses. Mark had been working for Matt for several years and had taken over the
running of the ranch the year before they were married.
Matt and I retired to a small cabin we had built near the
pond on the southeast corner of the ranch. We moved into it the week before
Ella and Mark were married.
As I look back on our lives, I realized that had Will
Stambridge not come into my life for that brief time, Matt and I might never have
made our feelings known to each other. Many things were spoken between us that
long ago night that might well have gone left unsaid. For that, I am eternally
grateful.
Our love and passion for each other has not dimmed. It is as
strong as it was our first time together more than forty years ago. The fire
still burns deep within us both now and forever.
The end
