Golden Torment

by Janelle Taylor

  To avoid an unpleasant scene, Kathy kept silent. At her door, Landis leaned over to kiss her. She turned away; he chuckled devilishly. “Is that any way for a wife to treat her husband?” he taunted roguishly.

  “Why are you harassing me?” she asked seriously.

  “I’m not, love, just trying to play my part convincingly.”

  To punish him, she responded, “Then by all means do it right.” With that, she put her arms around his neck. Drawing his head down, she fused her lips to his, stealing his breath and reason. Before he could react, she stepped away and smiled. “Goodnight, dear husband.”

  “You’re playing with fire again, woman,” he warned huskily.

  “Since you’re my devoted and loving husband, you won’t burn me, will you?” she challenged. “Maybe this isn’t a bad deal after all.”

  “For once, I fully agree,” he announced, seizing her and kissing her with fiery passion. When he released her, she merely stared at him. “Goodnight, Mrs. Jurrell. Pleasant dreams.” He walked away.

  She composed herself, then went inside, her body enflamed.

  Jack studied Landis for a time after his return, then asked, “What’s going on between you and Kathy? Are you mad because I’ve agreed to help her?” As her self-appointed guardian, Jack felt he had the right to protect her, even from her husband if necessary.

  “You know why she shouldn’t go inland,” Landis replied.

  “I don’t understand this marriage, or your attitude,” Jack boldly stated. Jack wondered if this man realized he knew about Michelle. It was hardly a secret up north those two were close. Jack wanted to ask if Landis had broken off his unlikely relationship with one of Soapy’s girls, but wisely didn’t probe that area. Maybe he should check it out. He had known Landis for months, and enjoyed wilderness treks with him, but felt he knew little about the man inside. Now that he was in Kathy’s life, he wanted to know all he could learn.

  “Are you going to take her along?” Landis demanded.

  Clearly Landis was riled. “I don’t know. She seems worried about displeasing you. Why can’t you take her? She’d be safe with you. She’s desperate to locate Jake Hammond.”

  Worried about displeasing me? Landis mentally echoed. “Did you ever meet her mother and father?” Landis inquired.

  Jack grimaced before saying, “Her mother, yes. But her father’s been gone since Kathy was a child. Why?”

  “Just wondering what kind of man he is. Might help my search.”

  “No good, if you asked me.”

  Jack’s voice and expression said it all, so Landis didn’t press him. He asked, “What was Kathy like when she was younger?”

  Jack eyed him, then replied, “Kathy spent most of her childhood in boarding schools and the summers with her mother. She hasn’t changed much. She’s bright, charming, and well-bred. Kathy’s…Kathy. She’s warm and honest. She’s good company, witty. She grew into a beautiful and caring woman. Maybe I just feel old, but she’s still a carefree child to me. I spent a lot of time with her and…her mother. I guess I feel responsible for her. What else you want to know about her?” Maybe he could help Landis understand and accept her.

  “Did she ever do any kind of work back there?”

  “No, they had plenty of money to live on, enough to travel a great deal. From the way I heard it, Jake Hammond was a very wealthy man. Kathy did play several recitals in San Francisco; she’s a talented pianist. I thought she might play concerts later. You can imagine how shocked I was to find her here.”

  Jake Hammond must have been wealthy if they lived off his money since Kathy was a child. Kathy said there hadn’t been any word from him since he left. That meant he hadn’t been sending money or messages home…or did it?

  “Don’t you think it dangerous and impulsive to come this far to search for a father who deserted her, one she doesn’t even recall?”

  “Nope! Wouldn’t you do the same in her place?” Jack wanted to deny she was impulsive, but her recent marriage prevented it.

  “But I’m a man. I can take care of myself.”

  “Kathy needs to know the truth. Have you learned anything?”

  “Not yet. I nosed around. If he’s here, he’s staying hidden.”

  Landis straightened up and gradually flexed his taut muscles. This talk wasn’t going far, so he ended it. “See you tomorrow, Jack. You needn’t worry about Kat; I promise to take good care of her. If you locate Jake Hammond first, will you send word to me?”

  “I’ll send word to Kathy; she’ll tell you. See you around, Landis.”

  To avoid a verbal battle with Kathy the next morning, Landis struck out early, stopping later to eat a cold meal on the trail. His first stop would be Log Cabin; his second, Hudson Bay Company…The competition between them and the Alaska Commercial Company could shed some light on some nasty events taking place.

  Nine days passed in Moore’s camp. When Kathy was bored, she helped Harriet. Often fights broke out among the poor men stranded on the crowded beach. Two desperate thieves were taken prisoner by the Canadian Mounties in their splendid uniforms; it was ridiculous the Americans didn’t have some form of law in these parts! Makeshift huts sprang up like gaunt guards against the approaching winter.

  Other days were spent unloading goods brought to Moore from the ships which anchored in the Lynn Canal. With winter imminent, Moore was stocking up on supplies and gear, victuals and chattles as the men here called them. One ship, the Carnivie, was like a floating store. When it anchored, Moore took Harriet with him to select the items needed for his camp.

  Dray also accompanied them to the supply ship. He planned to stock up on gear and supplies the “cheechokhos”—newcomers—would need for spring panning and winter trapping: picks, shovels, ropes, snowshoes and glasses, blankets, staples, weapons and ammunition, crampons, packs, canvas, pans, utensils, steel traps, lanterns and oil, and canteens. He purchased some fishing supplies for the locals. His largest investments included two sleds and five wheelbarrows. If a miner used a sluice, he constructed that himself. Knowing most men came here woefully unprepared for winter or gold-mining, he bought heavy packs, flannel shirts, longjohns, and included a variety of sizes in nailed boots and woolen socks. A wealthy man, these goods were easily covered with furs and gold.

  The cooking and service continued to please the men and their boss; the life pattern now seemed indelible. Certain men would cut wood for the fires and others would be assigned the duties of guarding Moore’s area or unloading supplies. Three other cabins were under construction by men who believed they had struck it rich and planned to spend the winter in Skagway to challenge the Yukon again in the spring. This labor did have two favored effects on the small settlement: the population and stability of Skagway were growing, and some of the more unfortunate men were given ways to earn money for survival or for departure. Moore’s company was also building Dray a larger structure to use for storage and as a trading post, to rival those inland.

  Each day, the weather hinted more boldly of what was soon in store for the inhabitants of this harsh area. Heavier snows could be sighted on the peaks overlooking Skagway, and three light powderings of white flakes had touched their settlement lately. The days grew shorter and the winds brisker. Warmer fires became a necessity. The dogs, mostly huskies and malemuts, in the pens to the far end of the settlement, instinctively sensed winter and sleds would soon be a fact of their lives. Their barking and nipping became more noticable each day.

  Kathy began to feel pangs of impatience and loneliness. If harsh weather arrived earlier than expected, her search could be postponed until spring. She didn’t want that! She anxiously awaited the day when Landis or Jack would return. On occasion, she had walked around the entire camp with either Mike or Dray. She questioned them about the dogs, sleds, the Indians, the saloons, and anything else which caught her interest. It was a desperate attempt to fill her warring heart and mind.

  During the next few days, some trappers arrived to sell off
what few furs and hides they had taken during the summer months. They sold or traded them to Drayton for supplies for the winter, the big trapping season. Dray spent one afternoon showing Kathy the difference and quality in the furs he purchased. Kathy eagerly accepted any distraction from her cares, disappointed there was no word or visit from her errant and mysterious husband. Even fighting with him was better than never seeing him! Had he dismissed her from his sight and mind?

  One ship arrived with letters from Harriet’s children, causing her to weep with loneliness. Kathy tried to comfort her, telling her it wouldn’t be much longer before she could send for them. “I should send for my horses, Kathy. There’s money to be made transporting goods inland for Drayton and Mr. Moore. When I earn enough money, I can build a boarding house. Men could bring their families with them. We’d have a real town then. It’s just taking so long.”

  “You mean take goods over the White Pass like those men?”

  “I could do it. I’ve worked hard all my life, Kathy. Think of the money to be earned. I could sell pies over there, too.”

  It sounded like a wild scheme, but Harriet could pull it off if she wanted to. “I’ll help if I can, Harriet,” she generously offered.

  “You’re a dear girl, Kathy. You know who’s coming today?” she suddenly changed the subject.

  “Who?” Kathy uneasily responded, hoping for and against her reply being Landis Jurrell.

  “That Soapy Smith everyone’s talked about.”

  Kathy laughed at the look on Harriet’s face. “He’s quite a legend here. Might be interesting to meet him.”

  “Surely you don’t mean that! He’s dangerous and wicked,” she warned, watching the spark of intrigue in Kathy’s sapphire eyes.

  “How often does one get the opportunity to meet such a colorful character?” she teased, tugging Harriet’s red curls.

  “If I were you, I would stay clear of a man like that.”

  That afternoon while the stew was simmering, Kathy left the tent for a reviving walk. Her eyes widened in astonishment. A man came riding into Moore’s area on a huge white stallion. Kathy observed the stranger from a short distance. He was wearing a white silk shirt, a black suit, a wide sombrero, and knee-high boots in shiny black. A diamond stickpin glittered on his ruffled shirt. His features were dark, partially concealed behind a black beard neatly trimmed to a devilish point. An undeniable air of arrogance and self-assurance emanated from him. She wondered if this could be the notorious Soapy Smith. He certainly made an unforgettable impression!

  The man radiated prosperity. The way his eyes darted about, he seemed a man who was well aware of all that went on around him, a man in full command of his destiny and those around him. His expression was smug and insolent, reeking of power. Yet, there was a sinister aura about him. Kathy recalled the rumors about him. If so many people knew about his crimes, why didn’t the Mounties arrest him? Was everyone here terrified of him? Or was he simply too cunning to avoid capture?

  Kathy shrugged. If all those rumors were true, someone would have killed him by now. It simply wasn’t logical.

  As Kathy headed for the tent, Smith prodded his horse over to her, halting the massive animal in her path. Kathy came to an abrupt stop and glanced up at the audacious stranger. Shielding her eyes from the glare, she softly demanded, “What is the meaning of this, sir?”

  “Do my eyes deceive me, or am I viewing the most exquisite creature alive?” he silkly murmured, twirling his midnight mustache with clean fingers that had neatly trimmed nails. “Randolph Smith at your service, ma’am,” he added, removing his hat and bending forward in his saddle in a respectful manner.

  Kathy flushed at his brazen manner and piercing gaze. “I beg your pardon?” she stated in surprise.

  On closer inspection, he was a striking man. The coldness in his deep eyes had been replaced by a curious sparkle. He smiled and asked, “Whom do I have the pleasure of addressing?”

  To prevent any further discussion, she stated crisply, “Mrs. Landis Jurrell, and I have no need of your services, Mr. Smith.”

  “Perhaps in the future,” he hinted, eying her closely, his interest and pleasure vivid. “It isn’t often we get such a lovely creature up this way. Needless to say, I’m well acquainted with your husband.”

  Kathy wisely remained silent and watchful, her intrigue captured by his mention of Landis, more so by his curious expression.

  “But why is such a beautiful wife slaving in a place like this?” he asked, fully expecting to be answered. When Kathy inhaled sharply at that bold inquiry, Smith quickly changed the subject. “Have you located your father yet?” he answered distinctly. “I’ve heard your husband is seeking him for you.”

  “Not yet. But I’m sure Landis will locate him soon,” she calmly announced. “If you’ll excuse me, I have chores.”

  Before Kathy could hurry off, Smith offered, “If you wish, I can ask around for you. I have many contacts in this territory.”

  “I’m sure you do, Mr. Smith. If you do hear anything, I would appreciate your sending me word,” she tried to terminate the conversation once more.

  “Why not stop by my establishment after you join your husband? If I receive any news, I’ll tell you then,” he stated, his tone guarded and unreadable, sounding as if she were the reason for his visit.

  “I’m waiting for Landis here,” she informed him.

  Smith glanced overhead and sighed. “I fear winter will alight before he succeeds. If you do come inland, I would consider it an honor to grant you my hospitality.”

  Kathy stiffened noticably. Smith quickly added, “I have rooms to rent over my saloons. It would be easier for you…and Landis to carry out your search from Dawson.”

  Smith appeared well informed on everything and everyone in the area. Was her imagination running wild, or did it sound as if Smith was trying to entice her and Landis to his saloon? That was absurd, so she dropped her suspicions—too quickly…

  “I see you do not trust me. Ah, lass, such are the pitfalls of wild rumors. I could be of valuable assistance to you. This area is mighty expensive and dangerous in winter. But of course, with a wealthy and powerful husband, you would have no need of my offer.”

  Kathy uncontrollably reacted to that news, just as Smith hoped. His conclusions were accurate as usual; she knew little of Landis Jurrell! So much the better, for he knew more than enough…

  Kathy wondered at Smith’s meaning when he said, “If you ever find yourself in dire straights, Mrs. Jurrell, please call on me. I can offer you a job, protection in my territory, and help with your search.”

  “I beg your pardon?” Kathy stated as if insulted, confused.

  “This is a hazardous territory, Mrs. Jurrell. Husbands often get killed. If you know cards, a faro or roulette dealer earns a great deal of money. Also, there are several theaters if you are versed in acting. Bored men pay hefty for their entertainment. I wouldn’t offer a lady a job in my dancehall,” he lazily clarified. “And it’s plain to see you are a lady of good breeding. If you ever have need of earning money quickly, come to see me. I’m sure I can find a respectable position for a woman of such fine quality and intelligence.”

  “I’m happily married, Mr. Smith, and I’m certain no harm will come to Landis. Besides, I know nothing of card games, nor am I an actress. I do play the piano and sing, but never in establishments such as yours,” she stated.

  “Luck rides with me today!” he shouted in excitement. “You could earn a fortune singing and playing for entertainment. Most days, I take in six to eight thousand dollars. Do you realize how much there is to be made with your talents?” he speculated with enthusiasm.

  “As I said, I’m not, and never will be, interested in such work. Good day, Mr. Smith.”

  “I’m a businessman, Mrs. Jurrell. I would be a fool to pass up such a golden opportunity. It would be profitable to both of us. At least give it some thought,” he urged, smiling broadly.

  “No, thank you. If you
’ll excuse me, I already have a job.”

  Kathy walked away, her skirts swaying with her movements. She entered the tent and was lost to Smith’s sight, but not his roving mind. When his sidekick Zack joined him, Zack chuckled wickedly and remarked, “I know that look, Soapy, but she ain’t like the other women. Forget her. She’s Jurrell’s woman, and we don’t need more trouble with him.”

  “You’re blind, my friend. Kathryn Jurrell will soon be ripe for the plucking; I’ll see to it. That golden dream is worth a fortune, one I plan to collect. Time, Zack, that’s all I need. Mrs. Jurrell?” he sneered skeptically, then threw back his head and laughed heartily.

  “She don’t look the loose type to me,” Zack noted enviously.

  “That isn’t what I have in mind for Mrs. Kathryn Jurrell.”

  “I don’t follow you…”

  “No? But she will. If her father’s alive, I’ll make sure she never lays eyes on him. Once she gets inland, she won’t leave.”

  “You can’t hold her prisoner. You forgetting about Jurrell and the Mounties? They’re real touchy since those other two went and got themselves killed,” he murmured satanically, chuckling.

  “There are ways of holding women captive without breaking any laws, my ignorant friend, many ways…And just as many paths of revenge. Twisted justice, Zack; Jurrell will dig his own grave.”

  Kathy didn’t see Smith again until the next morning at breakfast when he ate in Moore’s tent. He was very polite and cordial, but Kathy avoided him as much as possible. After the meal, Kathy and Harriet were clearing the tables. Smith had left six gold nuggets for them. When Harriet discovered them, she remarked, “You take ’em. I don’t care to have that kind of money in my pouch.”

  “You think he stole it?” Kathy teased her friend.

  “No doubt he did, one way or another! You be careful, Kathy. I saw the way he kept watching you. He gives me the shivers.”

  Kathy halted her work to look at her. “He’s probably just curious about me,” she tried to dispel Harriet’s uneasiness, which matched hers.