Games (Timeless Series)

by Loyd, Sandy

  President Grant leaned back in his seat. “This is Morgan’s operation.” He nodded at the older man. “I’ll let him explain the details.”

  Jonathan Morgan rose and moved to stand in front of the president’s desk, in between Parker and Simon.

  “Our intelligence sources are concerned about a foul plot that may be afoot. The two of you are here today because one of you has connections in Louisville, Kentucky, and both of you have been there within the last six months. I need agents familiar with the area, men who can blend in to uncover what, if anything, is going on.”

  No one spoke.

  A good fifteen seconds ticked on the grandfather clock in the corner of the room before Simon cleared his throat. “What makes you think this plot is dire enough to require our services?”

  “You’re aware of a new racetrack complete with grandstand and stables being built on the outskirts of Louisville?” With eyebrows raised, Jon waited for a response. Parker murmured his assent. At Simon’s nod, he continued. “For several months now, minor disturbances have delayed the building. At first, it all seemed coincidental and nothing out of the ordinary. Materials arriving late or being stolen, workmen not showing up when scheduled, and such. All are normal occurrences on this type of projects, so no one paid any mind until other more serious incidents took place. Add to this, several horses connected with the track have been injured or killed in past weeks. Within the last six months, other stallions from Virginia and Maryland have also been injured, some even having to be put down. We’re not sure if their injuries are connected or not, or if they are just plain happenstance.”

  Jon hesitated before continuing, and glanced first at Parker before his gaze landed on Simon. “The Central Railroad has crewmen laying track, and it’s clear someone is sabotaging their work. Last week, a man died after a cable broke and a pile of secured wood tumbled down on top of him. The cable was cut, denoting one thing. His death was not an accident.”

  “How is this in federal jurisdiction,” Simon asked. “Sounds like a case for the local officials. What’s their position?”

  Jon glanced at the man behind the desk. “I’ll let you explain, Mr. President.”

  “You’re right.” President Grant leaned on his elbows, facing the two agents. “Jurisdiction is a gray area. I have several reasons for involving US marshals. First, the breeders are up in arms. I’ve received several complaints. Since many are personal friends and all are from different parts of the country, I sent a man to investigate. His report says it’s worth looking into. The railroad officials are on my back because they expect federal protection from crime when their tracks are interstate. Also, Lewis Clark, Jr. wrote a personal letter, expressing concern. He personally has a huge stake with this venture. His father was a West Point graduate and an acquaintance. I owe it to the Clark family to, at the very least, look into the matter. After all, Clark’s grandfather, along with Meriwether Lewis, was instrumental in opening up the West to expansion for our country at the beginning of this century. And lastly, the South needs this venture to be successful. Our Southern citizens are still reeling from their loss in the war, even though it’s been close to a decade since Lee surrendered. This racetrack is vital for the morale of its people.”

  Simon nodded, still unconvinced. “Sounds like a personal grudge.” The thought of going back to Louisville didn’t sit well with him. He had no intention of ever returning if he could help it. “I don’t see how useful we could be.” He broke off and took a drink, waiting for a response.

  When none came, he added, unwilling to capitulate so soon, “Besides, Louisville isn’t in the South. It’s too far west and more central. I’m sure most in the city don’t consider themselves Southerners.”

  The President laughed. “True, true. There is a division. The city’s unique because of its location. Many do feel more a part of Ohio or Indiana. Then there are those who feel the city is as Southern as Charleston or Augusta. They’re about evenly divided. As I understand it, this race they are hyping.” He glanced first at Simon and then Parker. “I’m sure you’ve heard about the upcoming horse race in May—the Kentucky Derby?” Both Simon and Parker nodded. “It’s being touted as one big Southern party, a party that I believe the whole country needs. Louisville, being neither Northern nor Southern, makes it a perfect spot. This racetrack, and more importantly this derby, is important for bringing both North and South together.”

  “I see your points, but why the two of us? Don’t you have other marshals closer to the area?” Simon sensed the futility of arguing as the noose of duty wrapped around his neck and trepidation snaked through his system.

  President Grant nodded. “I do have men closer, but you two are more suited to the job. I need polished agents who can hobnob with the local gentry without bringing undue attention to themselves or to the investigation.” He inclined his head toward Parker. “Besides, Harold Bentley is familiar with Parker and personally asked for him. Bentley’s one of the breeders who wrote demanding help. Knowing how well you work together and because you are two of my best men, gentlemen, I’m asking for your help in unraveling this mystery.”

  Simon kept his facial expression neutral, unwilling to show any of his inner turmoil. He leaned back in his chair and took a long drink while his mind waged a bitter battle. Damn, this job appealed to him as did the idea of digging deeper. Unfortunately, delving into the case could bring him into contact with the enticing bit of muslin still keeping him awake some nights. He should be running in the opposite direction, not considering taking the job.

  “I’m interested,” Parker chimed in, interrupting his thoughts. “I say greed is the main motivator.” He turned to Simon. “I’ll check into the horse deaths in Maryland and Virginia. I’m on familiar terms with many breeders in the area. If any would benefit from the venture’s failure, I’ll soon know about it. That is, if you’re in, too. I’d enjoy working with you again. We make a good team.”

  Simon trained his gaze on Parker, thinking. Both had started out as US marshals together. Over the years they’d become partners of sorts, and did make a fine team, mainly because they complemented each other in skills. Parker was the same age as Simon and had the same rugged features. He had a fair complexion, reddish-blond hair, and blue-gray eyes, compared to Simon’s green eyes and darker looks. He also stood a few inches taller and about thirty pounds heavier. Parker Davis was one of the best men to work with and his enthusiasm pulled at Simon’s conscience.

  “I’m in.” He nodded after making a snap decision and pushing unease about Giselle Franklin to the back of his mind. He’d just have to handle his attraction for her, he thought, turning to Jonathan. “Give us all the information you have concerning this, no matter how trivial.”

  ~~

  “Seems I was right,” Simon Harrington said later the same day as he sat at his desk, finishing up last-minute details with Herbert Winston. His efficient manager took care of his estate during his lengthy absences.

  Simon stood and strode to the bar. He poured two drinks, walked back to the desk, and handed one to Winston. “Drink up. I’m celebrating. I’ll be leaving this afternoon for another mission.”

  “You’re sure you’re ready, sir?” Concern was evident in his tone.

  “More than ready.” Simon nodded, then took a long drink as his thoughts centered on his last case, which had started out simple enough. Simon only had to follow the trail of contraband gold bullion, stolen from the American government during the War between the States, and see where it led. He’d traveled from France to New Orleans to Louisville and then to Cincinnati. It finally ended in Pittsburgh where Simon and Parker Davis uncovered another more hideous crime—smuggling human cargo. Young women, most no older than twelve or thirteen, were kidnapped from various areas around the country and then sold to the highest bidder, for a life that Simon could only imagine. Though he’d come across that bit of information by sheer luck, what he’d learned had sickened him enough to investigate further.
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  He and Parker had realized the crimes were intertwined. If they solved one, they could solve the other. Unfortunately, unraveling both had almost cost Simon his life. Something spooked his quarry too soon, and Simon had to move swiftly in order to catch the criminals before they moved underground. Backup from Parker had been delayed. During an ensuing gun battle that had pinned Simon, he’d been hit and now sported a nasty scar on his shoulder. If the bullet had pierced an inch lower and to the right, he’d be a dead man today.

  “Well, can’t say your affairs aren’t in order.” Herbert’s voice broke into Simon’s thoughts. “These past few months have given us a chance to catch up on business. I only hope you’ll take care.”

  “No need to worry, Herbert. I’ll take care. Right now I’m as restless as a caged tiger, so the President’s request has come at a perfect time.” Simon rubbed his hands together in anticipation as thoughts of the new case had eagerness flowing through his veins.

  He’d been recuperating at his sprawling Georgian manor house for the past three months. After such a long break, Simon chomped at the bit for a fresh challenge.

  “I can’t understand why you have to go off solving cases,” Winston chided, his nose wrinkling in distaste. “I only hope you’ll not be gone so long this time, sir. Six months is much too long. I know we’re caught up for now, but your holdings are too vast to be ignored for months on end.”

  “That’s why I have you, Winston. To keep them intact while I’m off searching for excitement, as you call it.” Simon chuckled at his manager’s disapproving expression. “I’m sure you’re up to any task in my absence, but I’ll try to solve this one a little quicker.” He reached for his timepiece and glanced at it. “I have little less than an hour before I leave for Washington.” Then he stood. “Once I make arrangements with Jeffries, we can finish up here.” He moved to the door of his study and pulled the cord to summon his butler.

  Jeffries met Simon in the hall. “Yes, Mr. Harrington?”

  “Make sure my bags are packed and ready within the hour. Also, have my horse saddled. I won’t be here for dinner.”

  “Yes, sir. Anything else?”

  He nodded. “I’ll be on the evening train. Have Hank pick up my horse at the station.”

  “Yes, Mr. Harrington.” He bowed. “Everything will be ready as you wish.”

  “Thank you, Jeffries.” Simon went back into his study and finished with Winston until it was time to depart for Washington. When the hour came, he bid his good-byes, quickly mounted his horse, and rode toward the capital city.

  ~~

  Later that evening, Simon and Parker were deep in conversation, planning a strategy for attacking their case. The two stood next to a huge fireplace, ablaze with flames, which took the chill off the cold December night. The White House drawing room abutted a huge ballroom, but Simon ignored the activities in the next room. Music filled the air and dancers making their way around the floor could be seen from the entrance to the room about twenty feet away.

  “Morgan knows his agents. I’ll give him that,” Parker said, holding Simon’s gaze and taking a sip of his drink after the two had formulated their plans.

  Within hours each would board separate trains heading in different directions. Simon planned to spend the night, making use of a sleeper car while traveling toward Kentucky. Parker Davis would arrive in Kentucky at a later date, depending on the length of his investigating, first in Virginia and Maryland, then traveling north to Saratoga, New York.

  Parker swallowed a gulp of bourbon. “I’ve known Harold Bentley for years,” he said. “His father and my mother’s father went to school together. His wife and my mother were close friends until her death a couple of years ago. He owns Bentara Farms—the same farm where one of the thoroughbreds was killed. Since he requested me, I’m sure I’ll be able to wrangle an invitation to stay with him to continue my investigation after I’ve done my checking. It’ll be interesting to learn who benefits from this new track’s failure.” He broke off for an extended moment, seeming lost in thought. After taking another long sip, he added, “You know Colin Thorpe, don’t you?”

  Simon cleared his throat, not at all thrilled to hear the man’s name, considering he’d been escorting the woman he most wanted to avoid the last time Simon saw him. “Yes, we’ve met.” His voice revealed nothing of his thoughts as he swirled his drink, watching the amber liquid circle the inner edges of the glass.

  “Good.” Parker nodded. “While I’m staying at Bentara, you can use Thorpe’s stud farm as your base. It’s a perfect location for our purposes, an hour or so by train to Louisville and even closer to Frankfort, near Bentley’s farm.”

  “I have personal reasons for steering clear of his farm.” Simon sighed. “I’d rather not stay there, if it’s all the same to you.”

  Frowning, Parker eyed Simon. “Is there a problem with Thorpe?”

  “No,” he said, unwilling to let the man in on the fact that there was a problem, but it had nothing to do with Colin Thorpe. He kept his face from showing any emotion as he added, “Colin and I are acquainted and we deal well enough with each other.”

  “So, what is it? You’re usually not one to be fussy about these things. Is there something you’re not telling me about your relationship with the man?”

  Simon hesitated, then shook his head. “No. As I said, we’re acquainted and on friendly enough terms.”

  “Then I see no problem. Staying with him will make our job easier. According to Morgan’s notes, he’s one of the breeders along with Bentley who has voiced his concerns. So it’s a given they’ll both cooperate.”

  “You’re right. It’s a good place to start.” Simon shrugged, feeling a little paranoid. He took a deep breath and mentally chastised himself, pushing all unease away. Parker’s reasoning was sound and made total sense. Being on Thorpe’s farm shouldn’t affect his work.

  He smiled, confident that neither Giselle Franklin nor his emotions would get in the way of his objective. After all, she was only a woman. How could he even be thinking of shirking his duty because of a bit of fluff?

  Simon laughed and clapped his partner on the back. “It’s not a problem.” In a more positive mood, he decided to enjoy what was left of the evening after wrapping up his business with Parker. “I’m sure Colin will be accommodating.”

  “Good.” Parker offered a mollified turn of his lips. “I assume you’re planning to make the meeting about the track and the problems in Louisville tomorrow evening?”

  “Yes. I’m sure Thorpe will be in attendance. I’ll gain his permission to work on his farm then.”

  “That should do it.” Parker set his drink on the mantel, then gathered his papers together. “I don’t anticipate taking more than a week to do my digging. Shall we plan on meeting next Saturday in Frankfort to compare notes? It’s an easy ride for both of us. If I’m delayed, I’ll send word by telegraph.”

  Simon readily agreed. “Now that we have business out of the way, I think it’s time to mingle next door before I make my departure. Would you care to join me,” he asked as he was about to leave.

  “No. You go on ahead. I have some errands to catch up on before I make my train. Have a safe journey. I’ll see you next week.”

  “Until next week, then.” Simon offered his hand.

  The two men shook hands, and then he turned and headed toward the music.

  Upon entering the ballroom, Simon glanced around, taking note of who was in attendance. Spying several friends, he meandered in their direction, picking up a drink from a passing waiter as he went.

  “Simon!” A feminine laugh accompanied the shout. “I didn’t think we’d see you tonight.”

  “Hello, Constance. Where’s Charlie?” He smiled at the stunning blonde hugging him.

  “Oh, he’s around.” More feminine laughter burst from her lips. “Come, let’s dance and see if we can find him along the way. It’s been much too long since I’ve had such an attractive man’s attention.”<
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  Simon chuckled and set his glass on a nearby table. He then pulled Constance into his embrace and the two glided across the ballroom floor.

  “Are you here to socialize? If so, I have a very eligible friend I’d like you to meet.”

  “You never give up, do you?” He shook his head, smiling down at her.

  “No. Not until I see you happily married, like my Charlie. He fought it too. But it did no good. He couldn’t resist me.”

  “There’s your answer. You’re already taken,” Simon replied, letting amusement show in his eyes.

  “Why are you being so stubborn?” she countered, tsk-tsking. “Ask Charlie. He loves being married. He says it’s the best thing that ever happened to him.”

  “I’m not Charlie.”

  “Of course you aren’t. But you still need someone. Everyone does.”

  “Connie, you know I’m not in the market. So leave it alone. I like being unencumbered and have no intention of changing my status anytime soon.” He grinned at her to soften his words. “I know you mean well, but you are worse than my mother. Besides, I haven’t the time tonight, barely enough for a few drinks and a couple of dances.”

  “That’s plenty of time to meet Sarah.”

  “Constance.” His voice held warning.

  Undaunted, she smiled mischievously. “All it takes is one good woman, Simon.”

  Simon’s bark of laughter filled the air around them. “I’ll remember that.”

  The two old friends got caught up in the next few minutes before the music ended.

  “Oh, there’s Charlie. Come with me.” Constance grabbed his hand, starting in the direction of a group of people. Given her strong grip, Simon could only follow. “I really would like you to meet Sarah.” At his scowl, she quickly added, “No, I know she’s not for you. But she does need help. She’s a friend of the family, and new to the area. If you’ll dance with her, maybe it will encourage some of these other young swains to take a trip around the room with her. Please, Simon. As a favor?”

  “I’ll dance with her. But only if you stop your matchmaking.”