Orphan Train Trials

by Rachel Wesson

  The time passed so slowly. Nobody could eat or sleep. They sat around talking or the men paced while the women chatted. Brian came over to check on Bella a few times, but she was too wound up to talk to anyone. She counted the hours. Just how long did it take a sheriff to get from Green River to this town? They agreed not to walk around in town for fear they would spook the Maitlands. Waiting was bad enough but being stuck inside made it worse. She sat to write a letter to Kathleen care of Lily. Lily had agreed to forward her letters to Kathleen as soon as Kathleen sent her an address. She didn’t say too much about the twins as she didn’t want to alarm her friend who was too far away to help. Sucking the pencil, she tried to put her fears aside and concentrate on Kathleen and her adventures. Had she found her brothers yet?

  Chapter 50

  Kathleen

  Surprised to find she did sleep, Kathleen woke up late afternoon feeling better. She washed, dressed, and went downstairs to check whether she had any telegrams. Charlie not only answered but said he had sent a telegram to an acquaintance in town and asked him to help. The acquaintance, Randolph James, had called to see Kathleen. Mrs. Baker gave her his contact details. She wondered if she should wait for Richard but decided she didn’t have much time to lose.

  After getting directions from Mrs. Baker, she walked to Mr. James’s office. Her spirits fell as she surveyed the vision in front of her: peeling paint and a sign that needed new letters, unless Mr. Randolph James had decided to use “Rand Ja” as his business name. She knocked on the door. Hearing a muffled reply, she pushed the door open.

  “Oh.” She couldn’t help the remark. The office was strewn with pieces of papers and books on every conceivable surface, even the chairs. It looked like a tornado had hit the small space.

  “Mr. James? My name is Kathleen Collins.”

  “Do come in,” he called to her. “Please excuse the mess. My secretary resigned a few weeks ago and I am in rather a muddle.”

  Kathleen walked into the office, careful not to step on anything. Mr. James was a lot older than she’d expected. He looked like a grandfather from a book, rather eccentric with his mismatched tie and suit.

  “Your friend Charlie works for an old student of mine,” he told her. “He said you were in trouble but didn’t give me much more to go on. Will you please take a seat?”

  She looked around, making him laugh self-consciously. He pulled some papers and books off a chair then, when she was seated, he sat on the edge of his desk.

  “So, how can I help, Miss Collins?”

  “My brothers need legal representation. They are currently in the jailhouse.”

  “What have they done?” he asked.

  “I don’t think they did anything, but the sheriff has charged them with murder.”

  “Ah.” Mr. James’s eyebrows met his overhanging hair.

  “My brothers are good boys,” Kathleen protested, then feeling she should be honest went on with, “Well, they were mostly good boys. They ran a little wild when my parents died. But it was New York, and everyone was starving. I don’t believe they would kill anyone.”

  “How did they end up here in Freesburg?” he asked.

  “They came on the orphan train. I thought they were working on a farm, but I haven’t heard from them since they left a year or so ago. I came out here to make sure they were doing all right.”

  “So, you had your suspicions they might be in trouble?”

  Kathleen didn’t want to admit that. “I wanted to see them again. I missed them.”

  He looked at her shrewdly, so she wasn’t sure he believed her.

  “Who did they kill?” At her cough, he amended his question. “That is, who are they supposed to have killed?”

  She stared at him for a couple of seconds.

  “I don’t know. I didn’t ask. I went to see them, but I got really upset. They have been beaten up and I think Michael’s arm is broken. Richard wanted to examine them, but the horrible sheriff wouldn’t let him. He said there was no point as they would soon be at the end of a rope. So, I telegraphed Charlie Doherty. I didn’t know what else I should do."

  Kathleen stopped speaking. She waited for him to say something, but he seemed deep in thought. After a few seconds, he asked.

  “Did the sheriff say anything else?”

  “No, but Michael accused him of being on the payroll of someone called Beaugrand.”

  “Ah,” Mr. James said.

  Kathleen waited for him to elaborate but, when he didn’t, she prompted him. “What does that mean?”

  “How many attorneys have you been to visit Miss Collins?”

  “A few,” she said noncommittally. She didn't want to admit he was their last hope.

  “I am guessing nobody wanted to take on the case.”

  “No, they didn’t.” She shifted in her seat, becoming uncomfortable. Was he going to turn them down too?

  “Did they tell you why?” he asked.

  “No, sir. Maybe they thought I didn’t have the money to pay them. They would be right but, Richard, he’s the doctor who was on the train I came on—it's a long story—he said he would meet the costs,” Kathleen said.

  “I doubt he has enough money to convince any attorney to go up against Beaugrand. Not in this town.”

  “Why? He’s only a man, isn’t he?” Kathleen hoped she sounded more confident than she felt.

  “He’s a very powerful man who happens to own most of the land in this county. The town is named after his mother, her maiden name was Freesburg. She was a foreigner and, from all accounts, didn’t have the best welcome when she arrived in the USA. This is his way to honor her.”

  “He should concentrate on being a decent human being to honor his mother. Wouldn’t that be better than naming a town after her?” Kathleen asked.

  “I gather most people would think that but as far as Beaugrand goes, there is nobody else worthy in this world but him.”

  “Oh.” Kathleen tried not to cry. Her brothers’ chances looked worse than before.

  “Don’t be upset, Miss Collins. You came to the right office.”

  “You mean you’ll take the job?” While she was glad he was considering it, she wondered why. Could it be that nobody else would employ him?

  “I will. And with relish,” he said. “It’s about time someone showed Beaugrand we are not all on his payroll.”

  “Mr. James, can I ask why? If nobody else will risk going up against this man, why would you?”

  “It would be my last case, Miss Collins. I am retiring, about twenty years too late. My daughter lives in Boston and has been asking me to come live near her for years now. I would like to spend time with my grandchildren. Nothing to keep me in Freesburg now. Not anymore.” His gaze drifted out the window in the direction of the graveyard.

  She didn’t say anything but let the silence linger between them. Then he seemed to pull himself together as he wiped his hair back from his eyes.

  “If I am going to represent them, I best get their statements. Now, where did I put my notebook?”

  Kathleen looked around her and saw a pad lying under some books.

  “Is this it?” she asked, holding it out to him.

  “Yes, thank you,” he said, taking the offered notebook. “Say, what are you doing in Freesburg?”

  “What do you mean?” she asked, wondering if he was quite sane. She had just explained why she was in the town.

  “I mean, do you have a job? You wouldn’t consider working for me, would you? I can’t afford to pay you, but I can reduce the bill in return for your help around the office. I can also offer you room and board. I have a housekeeper, Mrs. Wainright, who is almost as old as I am. Don’t tell her that, of course. My rattling big old house is too big for just the two of us. It would be respectable. What do you think?”

  He smiled at her. She had warmed to him immediately.

  “You, Mr. James, have a deal.” She held out her hand and smiled.

  Mr. James took her to see his h
ouse where she met his housekeeper. The old woman did indeed look ancient, but the house was beautiful. It was also very big.

  “It was different when my family was young, and my wife was here,” Mr. James said.

  She looked up at the picture in the room. “She was very beautiful.”

  “Inside and out,” Mr. James confirmed. “She didn’t stand for any nonsense. There is no way Beaugrand and his friends would have taken over the town if my Clarissa were still alive. How I miss her.”

  Kathleen didn’t say anything. She could see he was upset. How wonderful it must be to have a man love you so much.

  “Right, let’s get you situated. Mrs. Wainright will show you to the guest bedroom. Here is a key for you. I have something to do but will meet you at the jailhouse in an hour.”

  Kathleen thanked him and followed Mrs. Wainright to her new accommodations. The room was larger than any bedroom she had ever seen with a magnificent four poster bed. It was beautifully furnished, the floors and pieces of furniture glistening. There wasn’t a speck of dust to be seen.

  “It’s beautiful. Thank you.”

  “I’m glad you are here,” Mrs. Wainright said. “The old man has perked up. He is livelier than I have seen him in a long time. I hope you will be comfortable here, Miss Collins. Stephanie, our maid of all work, will be here in the morning if you need anything.”

  “Thank you, Mrs. Wainright. I have to collect my things from the boarding house and meet Mr. James so I won’t be back until later.”

  “You take your time, and watch yourself,” Mrs. Wainright replied. “That Beaugrand is a nasty individual. You mark my words.”

  Chapter 51

  Bella

  Giles, Mitch, and Brian got talking about the state of farming. All three had suffered their fair share of hardship, including Brian almost losing his dream of having his own farm because of cattle rustlers. Both he and Mitch had overcome their problems, but they still sympathized with the MacDonaghs. They suggested they consider buying a small place in Riverside Springs rather than moving to Green River.

  “Couldn’t live in a big town after living out in the country myself. Can’t imagine how Bridget and Carl can bear to go back to New York even if it was my birthplace. With all those people and buildings, it’s a wonder they can breathe,” Brian said.

  “We haven’t got much option. Even if the property sells, we owe most to the bank. Not much credit on offer from the banks,” Mr. MacDonagh added. “I’m hoping to secure work with accommodation.”

  With each passing hour, Bella fought harder not to scream. How could they speak about work and farming while the children could be suffering?

  Finally, Sheriff Williams from Green River arrived with two of his deputies. After greeting Geoff Rees with a big smile, and being introduced to the rest of the group, he asked them to sit down.

  “I ain’t got good news for you good folks. It appears those Maitland brothers have quite a reputation. Only they weren’t always known as Maitland, they have had various aliases. I’m surprised the sheriff is involved though. Never had any complaints about him before.”

  “He had some money problems a while back. Had a gambling issue or something,” Mr. MacDonagh volunteered. “I don’t like speaking ill of people, but I do know he is still gambling.”

  “It wouldn’t be the first time the Kingston brothers bribed a law man, but let’s make this the last,” Sheriff Williams said.

  “What are the Maitlands, I mean Kingstons wanted for, Sheriff?” Gracie asked.

  “I’m not sure you want to know, Mrs. MacDonagh. Some things are not for ladies’ ears.”

  “I want to know how we’re going to rescue the girls. The twins came on the train with me and I promised I wouldn’t let anything bad happen to them,” Bella spoke up, although she hid her hands in her skirts.

  “Bella, you couldn’t stop what happened. All we can do now is make sure those men aren’t able to do the same again.” Brian reassured her with a smile before asking, “What’s the plan, Sheriff?”

  “I need some more deputies. And before you go volunteering, you should know both men are good shooters.”

  “Don’t matter. Those kids need help and we’re all they got,” Brian said firmly as he volunteered. Mitch didn’t think twice and neither did Geoff Rees, but when Reverend Franklin stepped forward, Sheriff Williams shook his head.

  “Sorry, Reverend, but I don’t think so.”

  “I aim to go whether I’m wearing a badge or not,” the reverend said. “If anyone does get hurt, including those men, they may want a minister to say their last words.”

  The expression on the sheriff’s face suggested praying was the last thing the Kingston/Maitland brothers would be doing, but he didn’t say anything.

  “We think there may be more children there than the ones you met,” Sheriff Williams said, pushing his hat back. “According to folk in town, there could be up to twenty. There are two properties, so we’ll split up and hit both at once. Geoff, you’ll lead the second group on Joe’s property while I take Jack.”

  “I’m coming too,” Bella said, stepping forward.

  “As am I.” Gracie MacDonagh moved to Bella’s side.

  “No, ladies, you have to stay here.” Reverend Franklin ordered.

  “I am coming, and you can’t stop me,” Bella said firmly, pushing aside her fear. Megan and Eileen needed her. “I want to help with the children. I was an orphan train child and, believe me, Sheriff, there is nothing you can tell me that will shock me. I’ll follow you, so unless you arrest me and chain me here I suggest we get going.”

  “All right,” Sheriff Williams said. “But you stay behind at all times and do as you’re told.”

  Bella and Gracie both nodded.

  Chapter 52

  Kathleen

  Kathleen was settling her account with Mrs. Baker when Richard walked into the boarding house.

  “Where are you off to?” he asked, glancing at her bag.

  “I hired an attorney, found myself a job, and a new place to live. I told Miss Screed I won’t be accompanying her on the rest of her journey. I don’t think she was too sad to see the back of me.”

  Richard grinned at her words before offering to accompany her to her new lodgings. He carried her small case as they walked the short distance.

  “How is Patrick,” she asked.

  “I took him to see the doctor and he agrees with me. Patrick’s hands will recover with only slight scarring. The doctor has a boy of Patrick’s age, so I left him there to find out what is happening with you. I take it you are staying here in Freesburg for the foreseeable future.”

  “Yes, I am. I don’t know how long it will take to clear my brothers’ names.”

  “And if you don’t?” he asked.

  She didn’t want to consider that eventuality. “I will,” she responded, crossing her fingers in the folds of her skirt.

  “So, tell me more about this attorney,” Richard said.

  Kathleen explained about Charlie’s telegram, her meeting with Mr. James, and his reasons for taking the case.

  “Are you sure he’s up to the job?” Richard asked.

  “We don’t have a choice,” she said. “Charlie Doherty recommended him, and I trust Charlie. Anyway, no other attorney in this town would touch the case. They all seem afraid of this Beaugrand guy.”

  “With reason,” Richard said. “I made some inquiries around town. He seems to rule the place with an iron fist.”

  “He needs to realize he lives in America. We have our laws and freedoms and they apply to everyone. I am not going to let any man intimidate me,” Kathleen said.

  The clapping sound behind her made her squirm. She turned to face a well-dressed, hard-faced man of about forty years.

  “Nice sentiment. I take it you are Miss Collins. I am—”

  “I know who you are, Mr. Beaugrand.” Kathleen guessed he was the man she’d been discussing with Richard. When he didn’t correct her she continued, d
esperate to prove she wasn’t afraid of him. “You’re the man trying to murder my brothers. You won’t succeed, do you hear me?”

  She stood facing him, thankful Richard was with her. Her brothers were depending on her, so she stood her ground.

  “I’m not looking to murder anyone. On the other hand, your brothers killed a man in cold blood, and they’ll be hanged for their crimes.”

  “Not until a judge finds them guilty,” Kathleen said. “I shall see you in court. Good afternoon.”

  Kathleen turned on her heel and walked on, catching a glance of admiration from Richard. They reached Mr. James’ house. Richard waited while she put her bag in her new room then he accompanied her to the jail. They found Mr. James there in a heated argument with the sheriff. She was glad she had met Mr. James before now. He was very angry and quite formidable as he gave the sheriff a piece of his mind.

  “Good, you’ve arrived,” Mr. James said when he saw Kathleen and Richard approach. “I take it this is the doctor? I want you to carefully examine both lads and make a detailed report of their injuries. We will provide the judge with a copy. At least this way, we save your brothers from falling over or otherwise hurting themselves. Isn’t that right, Sheriff?”

  The sheriff didn’t reply but spat on the floor, barely missing the attorney’s feet. Kathleen hid a grin as the older man barely concealed his disgust at the sheriff.

  The boys were in better form.

  “I can’t believe you came back. I thought you would get the train straight out of here,” Shane said, smiling at her.

  “We’re family, and families stick together,” Kathleen told him. “Richard is going to examine you. I got you new clothes and this here is Mr. James. He’s your attorney. He needs to know everything that happened.”

  “Why? It’s a done deal. You know we don’t stand a chance in this town,” Michael said sullenly. He hadn’t even bothered to stand.