Leah and Alfie

Leah and Alfie

Oscar and Nettie Crowley were having a wonderful time in Greensboro. Nettie grew up there and knew just about everyone in town.

They had dinner with the Cooper children at Gladys and Arthur Preston's home. The Prestons had taken the Cooper children in when their father died and their mother's mental state had deteriorated so much she had to be confined to a home. The home was unlike an insane asylum and gave Alice Cooper a chance for a normal life in the future.

The Cooper children were thriving under the care of Gladys and Arthur. They had stability and order in their lives for the first time in many years. Marlin Cooper had been a mean father and a miserable human being. There was speculation that because of a brain tumor, his behavior had become erratic and unreasonable. Alice's fear of him drove her over the edge.

Polly Cooper was banished from the home when she had been victimized into believing she was the bride of James Philpot. James had arranged a wedding ceremony with his cousin posing as a minister. Polly found herself in the family way. James discovered the Cooper's weren't as rich as he thought and her father wasn't about to give him a dime. He told her to get rid of the baby and he left town.

Polly gave birth to a baby girl she named Faith. She left Greensboro seeking the help of her old school teacher, Nettie Dawson. Nettie took her into her home and her heart. Nettie married Oscar Crowley and the four of them were a family. Eventually, Polly married Randy Burke and left the Crowley home leaving it a little too quiet for the young at heart couple.

“We came to Greensboro with the Merryweathers and Wilsons. We thought there might be a child or two that wouldn't mind living with us old folks. We will be returning there tomorrow morning. We would like to be able to give a child a home and also free up some space for other needy children,” said Nettie.

“Oh Nettie, that is a wonderful idea,” said Gladys. “Arthur and I haven't been this happy since our own children left the nest. I think it has brought out the best in both of us. We love these children so very much I can't imagine them not being in our lives.”

“Nettie, did you mention Thanksgiving?” said Oscar.

“No, I haven't. It seems the year just started and already we are talking about Thanksgiving. Oscar and I would like you and the children, and your grown children also, to join us for Thanksgiving dinner. We will have a houseful with the boys and their families and Polly and her family.”

“Nettie, that's way too many people for you to serve at one time.”

“No, we have plenty of room. Oscar had an addition put on this summer. He is sure the boys and Faith are going to be filling the house with grandchildren and he wants to be ready when that happens. Besides, Trudy is already planning the menu. She is tired of just serving the two of us all the time. Of course she will have plenty of help in the kitchen that day. When she and Polly get together they cook up a storm. It takes us three days of recuperating after one of their meals.”

“It would be so nice to be together. I'm sure the children will love being with Polly and Faith for a few days.”

Oscar and Nettie said goodbye to their friends. Oscar was beginning to miss his own bed in his own house. “Let's get back to Camden Corners before suppertime tomorrow. All that talk about Miss Trudy's cooking has made me homesick.”

“I'd like that too Oscar. Evelyn said she had two children she would like us to meet this morning. We have been so busy visiting old friends and you boys capturing criminals that we haven't had as much time at the villa as I would have liked.”

Bright and early the next morning, Oscar and Nettie were in Evelyn's office.

“The two children I mentioned came to us about a week ago. They have not adjusted well to the environment. Neither one of the children have opened up to any of us. They are frightened and I fear they may have been kidnapped from their parents and threatened in such a way that they are afraid to speak. One of the young men in town has a cousin who is a policeman and lives in New York City. He found these children wandering in the streets. The normal procedure would have been to scoop them up and take them to the nearest foundling home. The fellow had heard of our facility here through his cousin and put them on a train to Greensboro. The cousin brought them directly here from the train station.

From what little they have said, it is obvious they have a British accent. We have alerted the London authorities of their whereabouts but they have not received any reports of missing children. The clothes they arrived in were tattered but of very good quality. That is about all I can tell you about them. They are sweet children but very troubled. Do you think you would be interested?”

Tears were running down Nettie's cheeks and Oscar knew, sight unseen, these were the children for them.

Evelyn called the children into the room. “Alfred and Leah, these nice people are Mr. & Mrs. Crowley. They would like to take you to their home to stay with them for a while. Do you think you would like that?”

They both shrugged and looked at the floor.

“Alfred, Leah, I am very happy to meet you. You may call me Miss Nettie if you would like to and this is Mr. Oscar. We would very much like you to come with us to Camden Corners. I think you would like it there. Do you think you would like to ride on the train again?”

“He likes to be called Alfie.” Leah said without raising her eyes from the floor.

“Alfie, do you like to fish? We have a big lake that has hundreds of fish in it. Do you like playing ball? There are many things we can do in Camden Corners.” Oscar said without getting more than a nod from Alfie.

Peggy came to gather the children. “Come with me children. We will collect your things and you may go with Miss Nettie and Mr. Oscar to their home.” The two children marched out of the room like little soldiers.

“I hope we can bring them out of their shells. The poor little things, they are scared to death. Oscar, we must hire a private investigator to track down their family.”

“I've already thought of that my dear. I will contact one in New York City that I have dealt with before. I wish we had more information about them. We'll have the Marino boy take a photo of each of them. That will help in the search.”

“How old are the children Evelyn, do you have any idea?”

“At first I thought they were twins but I'm thinking they are probably just close in age. I think Leah is around 7 and Alfie might be 6. I think Alfie is tall for his age. I believe they may have lived a rather cloistered life. They are not comfortable being so close to so many children. Even with the problems most of our residents have, they do seek out children their own age. Leah and Alfie just cling to each other. Are you two sure about this? I hope I haven't burdened you too much.”

“We will do our best. We will work on finding their family and in the meantime we will try to make them as comfortable as we can. I have worked with many disturbed children over the years, I know it won't be easy but hopefully we can help them get through their current situation.”

“I was hoping we could get together this evening with Polly and the boys but it might be best if we just have a quiet time together. I'll gather some of the books we have left from when Faith was here. Maybe reading to the children will be the best thing we can do for them tonight.” said Nettie.

“That's a good idea dear. I haven't been able to get more than a grunt out of Alfie during the entire train ride. I thought an ice cream sundae would help but he still said nothing.”

“He did enjoy that ice cream though. So you did communicate through your stomachs.” Nettie laughed.

Trudy served them a nice supper. “I've never known children to be so quiet. Are you sure you two have tongues?” she teased as she placed a roll on each one of their plates.

Alfie stuck his tongue out and giggled just a little. Leah grabbed his arm as though trying to stop him from saying anything. It didn't go unnoticed by any of the adults.

“Oscar we must find out why these children are so terrified. I wonder if we should call Doc McMillan to examine them?”

“That's not a bad idea. I've asked Tony Marino to come over to take a picture of them. He will develop it and I'll have it sent special delivery to the investigator in New York.

Nettie sat on the sofa and spread the books out on the table in front of her. “Would you like to choose a book to read Leah?”

Leah shook her head no and sat in a chair by the window staring out.

“How about you Alfie?”

Alfie pointed to one and then looked at his sister. He shook his head no and went to the window sitting on the same chair as Leah.

Nettie picked up one that was a favorite of Faiths and began reading. After several minutes, Alfie stood up and walked over to Nettie. His legs started to get tired and he sat down beside her. Not too long after that, Leah got up and came over to the sofa. She sat on the other side of Nettie.

Oscar walked into the room. What a picture this was. Nettie with a child on each side of her. He thought once again what a wonderful mother she would have made.

Tony Marino stopped by to take photos of the children. They didn't know what he was doing and had seen many strange things in the United States so they just ignored him. If they had known their likenesses were going to be sent to an investigator, they may not have been so cooperative.

Doc arrived and checked them over a bit. He talked to them in his quiet way and they both actually smiled. “I think they have suffered a trauma. You are right to be concerned. I would say they have been threatened in some way about not saying anything. I can't think of any better people for them to be with right now. My advice is just to listen if and when they begin to open up. I think they already feel comfortable being with you. The villa may have been a little too hectic for them. Good luck and I'll check back later this week.”

Nettie tucked the children into their beds. They chose to sleep in the same room and that was fine with her. She and Oscar watched from the doorway a while later as both of these precious children slept.

In a castle outside of London, a young mother was wringing her hands. “Where can they be Phillip, where can my children be?”

“Minerva, I think it's time we call the authorities. Our Leah and Alfie have been gone so long and there has been no word about the ransom in weeks. If they are still alive we need to find them.”

“Phillip, no. I won't allow it. The kidnapper said they would die if we called the authorities. We will be killing our own children.”

The butler knocked on the door. “Begging your pardon, sir. There is a gentleman to see you. He is from Scotland Yard shall I show him in?”

“Yes Briggs, please show him in.”

“How do you do, sir? Hiram Rowntree here,” showing his badge he continued, “I would like to ask you a few questions about a Miss Bridget Davies. I believe she was in your employ as nanny to your two children.”

“Yes sir, she was up until four months ago. I believe she was leaving London to wed a gentleman up north somewhere.”

“I'm sorry to inform you that her body has been discovered in a ditch. She had been bludgeoned to death.”

Minerva cried out at the news.

“That is horrible detective, I wonder if you would excuse my wife. She has been under a doctor's care of late and should not be subjected to this stress.”

“I understand. If we need information from her we can ask her at a later time. Can you tell me all you know about Miss Davies?

“I'm sorry officer, I know very little about her personal life. She was recommended by the agency we go through for all our domestic help. Our children seemed to be very fond of her and were disappointed when she left.”

“I wonder if I may speak with your children.”

Phillip had been forced to lie about the children's whereabouts before and quickly said, “I'm afraid they are visiting their grandparents in Bromley.”

“I don't think it will necessary to disturb you any further sir. I'm sorry to have been the bearer of such unhappy news. I bid you farewell.”

The door shut behind the detective. Those two are hiding something, he thought to himself. They haven't seen the last of me.

“Minerva, we have to do something. I saw the look in that detective's eye. He knew I wasn't being completely honest with him. It is time to report the children as missing. We can't go on like this wondering where they are.”

Minerva agreed. “Wherever they are, I hope they know we are thinking of them.”

At that moment, a smile came across Leah and Alfie's faces as they slept. “Oscar look, they are both smiling. I hope they are having happy dreams.”

Murder in Greensboro

 

Murder in Greensboro

Everyone gasped when Sheriff Daniels stood at the door of the Clear Lake cabin and announced Oscar Crowley was under arrest for the murder of Marlin Cooper.

“I'm going with you,” cried Nettie

“Sorry ma'am. This is official business and you will not be allowed to ride with Mr. Crowley. You may follow us to the police station and wait to see him until after we complete our investigation.”

“Nettie, darling. Go back home with Jonas. Tell Richard and Robert what is happening and have one of them meet me in Greensboro. There has been a huge misunderstanding. I want you to go home and wait for me. I'm sure I will be there before dinner tonight. Jonas please take Nettie back to Camden Corners.”

Off the sheriff went with his prisoner in tow. Nettie and her friends were watching in disbelief as Oscar was hauled away like a common criminal.

Jonas said “Let's get back to Camden Corners right away. The best way we can help Oscar is to let his sons know what is going on.”

The ride back to town was a somber one. Not anything like the trip to the cabin just the previous morning when they were laughing and singing. Nettie couldn't understand why that sheriff would even consider her Oscar could do such a thing.

They finally arrived in Camden Corners and went directly to the law office. Robert was standing at the doorway.

“We know father was arrested. Richard is already on his way there. I was waiting for Nettie to return. We knew she would want to go with me to Greensboro. Polly is at your place, Nettie. She is packing an overnight bag for you. Emma is taking care of Faith for a few days. Polly will be joining us also.

“Of course she will. In my state of mind I have only been thinking of Oscar. I haven't even considered the fact that Polly's father is dead. I'm sure she has mixed feelings about him but he was her father. Robert, why on earth would they think Oscar of all people would have anything to do with a murder? It's absurd.”

“I don't know what led them to Father. The sheriff showed up at your house early this morning he handed the housekeeper a search warrant. She didn't know what to do and rushed to our house very distraught. The sheriff found a bloody knife tucked in the seat of Father's carriage. Robert and I are sure someone planted it there when Father was in Greensboro the other day. Unfortunately, he was spotted at the hospital talking with Mrs. Cooper. He didn't mention going into the room to see Marlin and I can't imagine that he did. The sheriff referred to an anonymous tip. Nothing adds up here. We know Oscar Crowley is incapable of murder. We will get to the bottom of this Nettie, I promise you.”

Polly was anxious to arrive in Greensboro. The trip seemed to take longer than usual and the snow packed roads didn't help. Nettie held her hand trying to calm her but Nettie was upset herself.

“Paw was a mean husband and horrible father Nettie, but he was my father. I can't help but wonder what in his life made him the way he was. I have a hard time believing a man can be born evil. I won't be shedding a tear for him but I am concerned about Mama. I know she has all but abandoned the children and now with Paw gone I don't know how she will cope with the loss. The Prestons have been a godsend to our family. I can't imagine what would have happened to the children without money to buy food or clothing. I feel so guilty about living in such a happy home with you and Oscar while my siblings were suffering so.”

“Polly, don't be so harsh toward yourself. You were told not to come home or to try to see the children. There was nothing you could do for them. Gladys Preston told me your little sister, Ginny has started calling her mama. The other children are all happy and healthy. We will make sure your mama is taken care of. She may need some rest you know. There is a small home just outside of Greensboro that helps people who are distraught. Oscar visited the home when he was in Greensboro the other day. He was very impressed with the caregivers there. I know he'd planned to discuss it with you. It may be where your mama needs to be for a while.”

When they arrived in Greensboro, Polly went directly to the Preston house. The children were happy to see their big sister again. They were adjusting well to the news of Paw's death but were worried about their mother. Gladys told her Alice was still sitting in the waiting room of the hospital. She didn't seem to understand that her husband was dead. The nurses were willing to let her stay until Polly arrived in town but something had to be done soon. Polly was the oldest and therefore had the authority to have her mother placed in the home Oscar had been to a few days ago. Arthur accompanied Polly and Gretchen to the hospital. Their mother was still sitting on the sofa in the waiting room.

“Mama” Polly said tearfully, “It's Polly.”

There was no response. The frail woman was staring into space. Polly and Gretchen agreed that she would not be able to go back to the family home. Alice was taken out of the hospital and escorted to the rehabilitation home as both girls held each other and cried for their mama.

Polly left her sister and Arthur promising to return to the Preston house in time for supper. She needed to be with Nettie as she waited to hear word of Oscar.

Richard finally came out of the interrogation room. “There isn't much to tell. Father is doing well. He is more worried about you Nettie than he is about his situation. He will mostly likely be staying the night in a jail cell. I think the district attorney has a vendetta against Father because of a case he tried here a few years ago. He made a fool of him and he is still carrying a grudge.”

Robert spoke up, “They aren't going to let you see Father tonight. He insists we register you and Polly at the hotel on Main Street for the night. We will escort you to the Preston house where you are expected for supper and Arthur will make sure you arrive safely at the hotel later this evening. Richard and I have a bit of investigating to do. We will meet you at the hotel and fill you in on what we find.”

Reluctantly, Nettie agreed to the plan. She didn't want Oscar worrying about her so she did as he asked.

The children were relieved their mama was going to be well taken care of. Polly spoke privately with the older children. Their house would have to be sold to pay for their mother's room and care. Oscar Crowley had set up a trust fund for Alice but Polly refused to allow him to shoulder the expense of caring for her mother. The children were all in agreement. The house had been filled with nothing but unpleasant memories for several years. They were happy they would be able to stay with the Prestons.

Oscar told his sons everything he could remember about his time in Greensboro. His first stop was to the Preston house. He was assured the children were happy living with Gladys and Arthur. One by one the children all arrived home from school. They had all put on weight since Polly's wedding just a couple of weeks ago. It was obvious they were being well taken care of. While Oscar was there Danny Mackenzie came calling for Gretchen. It was unmistakable the boy was smitten and Gretchen couldn't keep the smile off her face. Oscar was happy for her. She couldn't ask for a nicer family to be a part of. Gladys said she was was worried about Alice. She had been to see her just yesterday. The woman just sits in the waiting room until the nurse tells her it's time to visit with Marlin. She doesn't seem to be aware of her surroundings. Gladys mentioned the home in town. I would much rather see her in a place like that rather than an asylum. I have spoken with the director and she said they have had people like Alice and with time they have been able to come back to the living. Oscar's next stop was to the hospital. He sat with Alice for a while but she didn't respond to him. There were many people in and out of the area but he did remember seeing a disheveled looking gentlemen entering Marlin's room. The man didn't stay for long and had his head turned but Oscar recalled seeing that face somewhere before. He'd left his carriage in front of the hospital. He remembered the valet telling him a gentleman was getting very close to his carriage and he approached the man and asked if he could help him. He told him no, he was just admiring the carriage. When he described him, Oscar thought it sounded very much like the fellow he had seen coming out of Marlin's room. He left to tour the home that had been recommended for Alice and spoke with the director and caregivers. He met Cody Hill who had just finished his classes at the university for an early supper and then left for home.

The sheriff was much more cooperative than the district attorney. He told the Crowleys a messenger had dropped off an envelope with a torn piece of paper in it with the words. Oscar Crowley is a killer. Look in his carriage. We had to investigate because it was a known fact that your father was in the hospital just before Marlin Cooper was found stabbed to death. Sheriff Daniels thought the whole thing seemed fishy but the DA insisted we go after Oscar.

The Crowleys examined the paper and determined it had probably come from butcher paper that was used to cover tables in some of the less than desirable watering holes. They knew Marlin had frequented Shaky's Bar and headed there to see if they could find any evidence of the torn paper.

The lights were dim in the dingy little bar. The Crowley brothers realized they were out of place in their natty suits and overcoats. All heads turned when the two men walked through the doors.

“What can I get ya?” the bartender grumbled.

“A couple of beers and a little information” Richard said “Our old man is in jail accused of murdering Marlin Cooper. Anybody in here know anything about that?”

A squirrely little man started toward the back door. Robert went after him and caught him by the collar of his frayed jacket.

“Come on pal. Let me buy you a drink. Come sit down with my brother and me. We want to ask you a few questions.”

“Hey, stop disturbing the customers. If your father did off Marlin Cooper he should be given a medal. Benjy, tell these blokes to leave you alone.”

Benjy felt his knees go weak. A drink sounded awfully good and with these guys buyin' he was gonna get himself a double shot of the best bourbon in the joint.

“Don't know nothin' about no murder but I'll take that drink.”

After Benjy downed the drink in one swallow Richard said “Tasted pretty good huh Benjy? How would you like another?”

Benjy nodded his head and thought he must have died and gone to heaven.

“We'll get you another one Benjy as soon as you tell us what you know about Marlin Cooper and how he died.”

Benjy thought for a minute. It really wasn't his fault Marlin was dead. It was self defense after all. His mouth was watering for another shot, this time he'd order a triple.

“I'll tell ya what happened. Marlin is a pal of mine. We were in the pokey together. They said I was a vagrant just because I was sleepin' in the alley. I'm no vagrant. I have a home. I was just too tired to walk there that night. Marlin was madder than a pistol when he was in that jail cell. He said he was goin' to go to some little town down the road and wring the neck of somebody named Polly. Then he said he'd do the same thing to Oscar Crowley. I remembered a fellow named Oscar Crowley. He was a friend of Judge Martin. I like the judge. He always put two bits in my hat when I was just sitting and resting by the court house. I used to see him with Oscar Crowley too. I knew Mr. Crowley because of the time I had a really awful belly ache. Mr. Crowley stopped when he saw me and asked if he could help. Everybody else just passed me by. Mr. Crowley took me to the hospital and they fixed me up good. This pretty little nurse told me Mr. Crowley paid the doctor to help me feel better. Now I'm feelin' kinda low 'cause of what I did. He didn't deserve to be blamed for Marlin bein' dead.

When I got outta the pokey a few days later I went to see Marlin. I thought he was my friend but boy was I wrong there. He gave me a knife that he had swiped from somewhere. It wasn't a very big knife so I guess he could hide it pretty easy. He said the nurse told him Oscar Crowley was out in the visitor's room with his wife. He said he was tired of the woman 'cause she was always cryin' about somethin'. He told me to go out there and stick the knife into his wife's heart and then yell that Mr. Crowley killed her. Oh yeah I was suppose to hide the knife in the sofa. I told Marlin I ain't never killed nobody before and I didn't want to do it. He started yellin' at me and called me all kinds a names and then he started laughin' at me sayin' I was a yellow bellied coward. I just wanted him to stop. My paw always called me a coward just before he took his belt to me. I had that knife in my hand and before I knew what was happening, I had shoved that knife deep into Marlin Cooper's belly. I'll never forget the look on his face when he realized I wasn't a coward after all.

I walked out of the hospital and saw a swell lookin' carriage there. The doorman asked what I was doin' near Mr. Crowley's carriage. It was like I wasn't good enough to stand by a fancy carriage. When he turned his head I stuck the knife in between the seats. When I got here to Shaky's, I started wonderin' if maybe somebody saw me in Marlin's room. That was when I wrote that note about Mr. Crowley bein' a murderer.”

Robert brought the anticipated shot of bourbon to Benjy. “It's a triple, just like you wanted Benjy.” It would be the last drop of bourbon Benjy would enjoy for a long, long time.

After telling the sheriff his story, Oscar was released immediately. On his way out of the jail, he told Benjy he would arrange to have one of his friends represent him. Oscar knew what kind of a man Marlin Cooper could be and that he was capable of angering someone to the point of murder. He knew he would be sentenced to a prison term but a good defense lawyer should be able to shorten the term. He also was hopeful Benjy would be able to get some help with his drinking problem. He really wasn't a bad guy.

Arthur Preston walked Nettie and Polly through the doors of the hotel. They looked up to see Oscar waiting for them with his arms wide open.

Polly listened silently as Oscar repeated Benjy's confession to the murder of her father, Marlin Cooper. Tears were streaming down her cheeks at the thought of her father's intent to kill her mother. She knew he was an evil man but this was too much even for him.

“I can't believe Paw would go so far as to have my mama killed.”

Oscar put his arm around her. “Polly dear, it's true your paw was not a kind man by any stretch of the imagination but from what the doctors told Robert and Richard he was also a very sick man. There was nothing that could be done for him to make him well. The medicine he was given to relieve the pain most likely affected his reasoning. Since he considered me the enemy and heard that I was with your mama he thought of her as the enemy too.”

Polly cried in Nettie's arms. She cried for her father who she hoped had found the peace in death that he never had in life. She cried for her mother who lost her spirit but with the help she would be getting had a chance to find it again. She cried for her siblings who lost one set of parents but had a chance for a full and happy life thanks to the Prestons. She then thought of her new husband Randy and her precious Faith and the love she felt from these two wonderful people who sat beside her. The tears stopped and she was able to smile again.

The next morning after a brief stop at the Preston household to say goodbye to the children, the group headed towards Camden Corners. It would be so good to be home.

Oscar's incarceration had been the talk of the town and everyone was relieved when he arrived back home

Josie Blackburn's editorial was a demand for the firing of the district attorney. She talked about the vendetta he had against Oscar and how he'd forced the sheriff to arrest an innocent man. Anyone who knew Oscar Crowley knew he would never commit murder and even if he did he wouldn't be dumb enough to hide the murder weapon in his own carriage. Arthur Preston reprinted Josie's editorial in the Greensboro News and the following week it was announced that the mayor had appointed a new district attorney.

 

Secret Weapon

Secret Weapon

After reading his pa's journal, Dusty was even more certain Al Blanchard's fall from the scaffolding of the job site in Greensboro was not an accident. He was also certain that the man responsible was Leo Carlisle. Dusty knew Leo's threats were to be taken seriously and his mother was in serious jeopardy if Dusty didn't do exactly what Leo told him to do.

Dusty was surprised Ernie Black gave him a job on the hospital project. He couldn't hide his nervousness. He couldn't stop thinking about his pa's fate and what may lay ahead for Ma. He knew Ernie only hired him because of his father and shuddered to think what Leo would have done if he came home without the job on the project.

Reggie went with Ernie back to the job site. Reggie told Ernie all about his visit to the Dalton Sawmill and let him know the first part of their order would be on its way in just a day or two. Ernie asked Reggie if Josie was feeling alright.

“She looked a little pale to me”

“Josie? She's just fine. Had a great time with Effie Dalton. If she didn't love Camden Corners so much, I don't think I could keep her away from Dalton's Mountain. Sure is beautiful country down there.”

In the meantime, Josie had her head over the commode in the McMillan home. Her mother was sympathetic but couldn't keep the smile off her face because it looked like she would be a grandmother very soon.

Josie joined her mother at the kitchen table.

“I wanted to ask you if you thought I might be expecting but I can tell by the look on your face that you suspect it too.”

“It's probably too soon to tell but maybe you should talk to your sister. I would guess you are suffering from morning sickness. I'll bet Reggie is beside himself.”

“I haven't mentioned it to Reggie. He is so preoccupied with troubles with the lumber order. I want his full attention before I let him know he might be a father in a few months.”

Reggie and Ernie were in Reggie's office discussing how the order could possibly have been switched. Ernie was quiet for a moment and then spoke up.

“I was walking from the wagon across the street when a fellow bumped my arm. I remember thinking it was odd because there was plenty of room for him to walk by me without running into me. The envelope dropped to the ground and he picked it up and handed it to me. Our eyes met and I remember feeling a chill for a moment. I then walked over to the Post Office and handed the envelope to Jackson Parker. We chatted for a few minutes and I returned back here.”

“Let's start with Jackson Parker.” said Reggie “We'll have him look at his log and see where that envelope actually went.”

They rode to the Post Office. Reggie noticed Josie and her mother were going into the doctor's office next door to the McMillan house. He didn't think anything about it since they were all in the family.

Jackson brought out the log and scanned the pages until he came to the one that named the recipient as Dalton Mills, Box 808, Pineville, NY.

“I'm sorry boss.” Ernie said quietly “It was so careless of me not to check that envelope. I should have known something was fishy about that guy. It was all my fault. I cost Miss Lucinda a bundle of money. I will have my resignation letter on your desk first thing tomorrow morning.”

“Ernie, you will do no such thing. It wasn't your fault. Why would you even look at the envelope? You had no way of knowing someone was on the lookout for you. I just wonder how this Carlisle guy knew that order was going out at that time and knew you would have it in your hand when he bumped into you. I'm afraid we may have a spy in our organization.”

The crew was called back to the job the following morning. Dusty thought he saw Leo standing next to the light pole as he walked from the worker's camping grounds to the job site. He knew he had to let Mr. Blackburn know what Leo was capable of but the veiled threat against his ma was constantly on his mind. An hour later, Dusty tripped over his tool box hurting his arm and was taken to see Doctor Tom Campbell.

Tom entered the examining room just as Dusty was removing his jacket without any obvious pain.

“Sorry Doc I didn't hurt myself, I just needed to talk to you or your wife or Doc McMillan. I know you are related to Mrs. Blackburn and I have to get some information to her husband without anyone knowing.

Tom was leery of the boy but willing to listen to his explanation. Dusty showed him the journal. Tom knew of the recent mix up with the lumber and that Reggie was very worried about who was sabotaging the hospital project.

“Has this Leo Carlisle threatened you Dusty?” Tom asked after he had read a few of the incriminating pages.

“No sir, not me. He has cast some kind of spell over my mother and he has hinted that harm will come to her if I don't do as he tells me. So far he hasn't told me to do anything except sign up to work on this job.”

Tom wrapped the boys arm and placed a sling around his neck.

“We will say you have a sprained arm. That way if Leo sees you he won't be suspicious. My wife and I are expected at the Blackburn house this evening for supper. I will give the journal to Reggie then. Dusty, you are a brave young man. I didn't know your pa but I'm sure he would be very proud of the way you are handling this situation.”

Dusty was walking back to the job site when Leo slithered from behind a tree.

“Looks like you will be given a job in the office for a while boy. That works out very well. You will be of more help to me there than out working in the field.”

Later that evening Reggie read over pages of Al Blanchard's journal. He was furious that the man was apparently murdered because of Leo Carlisle's greed.

“Ernie said the kid acted nervous. It's no wonder. From reading through the journal, it appears that Leo is either lurking around the job site of his current victim or he has intimidated someone else to do his dirty work.”

Josie spoke up “Reggie, do you remember that young girl we hired to do the filing and help with some of the paperwork? Her name was Pamela. I would find her crying at her desk almost daily. She never let on what was wrong and one day she simply didn't show up for work. She said she was staying with Evelyn Keys but when I checked with Evelyn, she had never heard of the girl. Maybe I should have looked into it further.”

“We need to get this information to Sheriff Mendenhall but I'm afraid Leo is watching every move we make. For Dusty's safety and his mother's we will have to be very careful.”

Doc McMillan who had been sitting quietly listening to the conversation said “I'm having breakfast with the sheriff and Oscar in the morning. I'll make sure he gets the journal. Oscar will have some ideas, too.”

The sheriff was indeed interested in Al Blanchard's journal and the implications. He had recently returned from a convention of area sheriffs and it seemed Mr. Leo Carlisle had been under suspicion in several cases. None of the cases had ever been resolved because witnesses were unwilling to implicate Leo in any of them.

“I'll check the whereabouts of Pamela Fuller. It sounds like she may have the proof we need to arrest Leo Carlisle. I'm sure the Sheriff in Greensboro would be interested to know that Al Blanchard's death may not have been accidental after all.”

Josie really liked Dusty Blanchard. He was still very worried about his mother but he felt assured that Leo's reign of terror would be coming to an end soon. Josie had told him not to worry. The matter was being handled. They never knew who might be listening so they limited their conversation about the matter.

Dusty was sleeping soundly in his bunk that evening when he was suddenly awakened with a poke to the ribs.

“Find the order for bricks and meet me in the park near the library tomorrow at 12:00. Bring your lunch, we'll have a picnic” Dusty couldn't mistake the evil cackle of Leo Carlisle.

Dusty reported Leo's demand the following morning. Josie quickly drew up an order with false information. She knew it would be impossible to fill the order even from a disreputable company but she hoped when Leo was transferring the information to his own order forms he would not recognize the errors.

Josie was still suffering from morning sickness. Her sister had given her some medication to ease the nausea but she had left it at home this morning. Her stomach felt a little queasy but she was determined to fight it. She was sorry she had eaten so much last night but she was terribly hungry and she couldn't seem to stop herself from reaching for that second helping. She still hadn't told Reggie her news. She wanted it to be a special time for them and with the uproar with Leo and his shenanigans Reggie was still preoccupied.

There was a knock on the office door. Josie opened it to see Pamela Fuller standing there.

“Pamela, where have you been? You just disappeared and we had no idea where to find you.”

“I'm sorry Miss Josie, I have been dishonest with you and you were so kind to me. I met a fellow named Leo Carlisle. I've never had a beau before and he was so very charming I'm afraid after a few kind words I developed a crush on him. He wanted me to help him with a plan to swindle your husband and take money for himself. Oh, Miss Josie, I told him I couldn't do such a thing and suddenly he turned on me. What I thought was charm became pure evil. He threatened to hurt my dear mama. I couldn't bear anything happening to her and I went along with his plan. I started working here and copied the lumber order and gave it to Leo. Leo bumped into Ernie on the street and exchanged the envelope with the bogus one. He then took the check made out to Dalton Mills and was able to cash it at the bank in Greensboro. I suspect he may have been blackmailing someone at the bank to illegally cash the checks. I felt so guilty all those times you found me crying but I couldn't tell you. I had confided in my cousin Muriel who lives in Pennsylvania. She arranged for my mother and me to board the train under false identities and come to stay with her. My mother passed away in her sleep last week. I decided to come back here and face my punishment. Now that my mother is safe with the Lord, I am no longer afraid of Mr. Leo Carlisle.”

Leo had been watching Ernie Black from across the street and hadn't noticed Pamela Fuller walking into the office until it was too late to stop her.

“I should have gotten rid of the insipid woman a long time ago” he whispered to himself.

Leo practically ran to the office door, put his ear to the door and listened as Julie spoke.

“You did the right thing Pamela, I'm very sorry about your mother but we will keep you safe from Leo. You stay here while I find Reggie. We will call Sheriff Mendenhall and have Leo Carlisle arrested.

Leo backed away from the door. They weren't going to catch him. His way out of town was right here in plain sight. Josie Blackburn was a fine looking woman and his insurance policy.

Josie was walking quickly to the construction area where Reggie was talking with Ernie and a couple of the men. She felt the bile rising in her throat but had to get to Reggie before Leo got to Pamela. Suddenly she felt an arm around her waist and felt metal in her ribs. She wasn't surprised when she turned and her captor was none other than Leo Carlisle. She heard Pamela scream and Reggie shout her name. Leo was holding her tightly and was looking into her eyes when she couldn't hold back any longer. She regurgitated directly into Leo's face. He jumped back, dropped the gun and started retching himself. Leo had no qualms about killing someone in cold blood but couldn't take watching someone vomit. Especially, when it was directed at him.

The crew wrestled Leo to the ground and held him there and hosed him down while they waited for the sheriff to arrive and haul him off to jail.

Reggie held Josie closely. “You have been doing that often lately. Do you think we should get you over to Doc's so he can check you out? A stomach flu shouldn't last this long.”

“It's not a stomach flu, Papa. I was waiting for a special time to tell you but I think our little baby just saved my life and I would say this is a very special time.”

Reggie picked her up and swung her around until he thought better of it. Josie was looking a little green at the moment. Instead he put his arm around her and walked her back into the office where she could rest after her ordeal.

Leo confessed to Al Blanchard's murder and several other crimes insuring that he would be spending the next 99 years in prison.

Pamela was exonerated from any criminal charges and went back to Pennsylvania where she met and married Arnold Swanson who charmed her in only good ways.

Dusty was welcomed with open arms upon returning to Greensboro. He became sought after whenever a new construction project began.

A Mysterious Find

 

Sarah Lane, assistant librarian for Camden Corners Library was engrossed in the latest novel by her all time favorite author, J.K. Ellingsworth when she suddenly had the feeling someone was standing in front of her. Startled, she dropped the book and looked up into the most beautiful green eyes she had ever seen. Maxwell Harcourt smiled at the pretty young woman who happened to be reading his latest novel. Max was a tall muscular guy who didn't fit the mold of a romance writer although he never thought of his novels as romantic. It just made them a bit more interesting if there was a love affair going on while his hero was solving the latest murder or catching criminals. His agent told him with his good looks, he would sell even more of his works if he agreed to a book tour. Max enjoyed escaping with his pen and paper and letting his imagination spill out onto the pages. He had written 25 novels and no one except his trusted agent knew who J.K. Ellingsworth was. Max wanted to keep it that way.

He had just arrived in Camden Corners, rented a room in the Wharton House and set out immediately for the library to check out a reference book or two hoping inspiration would come for another novel.

Sarah composed herself and offered her assistance to this stranger with the green eyes. She was just reading about Gilmartin Trent and his latest escapade when she looked up and saw her hero standing before her. Of course he wasn't this fictional character but she was certain Gil would look just like this stranger. Sarah was pleased to learn Mr. Harcourt would be living in Camden Corners. There were a number of good looking men in town but most of them were already taken. She was happy to present him with a library card and guide him to the reference section. Sarah went back to her book but found it hard to concentrate while keeping one eye toward the back section of the library.

Max was contemplating his next novel. He had envisioned a village much like Camden Corners. A calm peaceful town where people knew and liked each other. A town where crime usually consisted of a young lad swiping a piece of taffy from the candy shop on Main, or a smitten teenager stealing a kiss behind the cottonwood tree in the park. Camden Corners would be the perfect location for a perfect crime.

Max spent the next two hours scanning books of history written about Camden Corners. One book had been placed behind other reference books on the uppermost shelf in the corner of the aisle. Max's arms were long enough to reach the large book and noticed it was covered with dust. It must have been hidden in this corner for a very long time. That being the case, Max was curious as to what was hidden and by whom. As he was leafing through the pages, he came upon an article that had been cut out of a newspaper and folded over several times.

The headline read: “MYSTERY IN CAMDEN CORNERS. Aug. 11, 1801 – Long time residents of Camden Corners, Simon and Hannah Lane and Simon's brother, Caleb have disappeared from their home in the Camden Creek area. Friends and neighbors report the family had become reclusive the last few months. Simon and Hannah welcomed twin boys in early spring of last year. Friends calling on the Lanes claim a female caretaker was tending Mrs. Lane as she had contracted an undisclosed illness. Sheriff Martin from nearby Greensboro was summoned to investigate the property and found it to be vacated. Friends and neighbors are suspicious and fear for the safety of the family.

Another article dated two days later reported three bodies had been discovered and quoted Sheriff Martin saying the deaths were accidental and he was doubtful foul play is involved and has closed the case.

Max glanced over towards Sarah. He remembered that her name plate said Sarah Lane.

“I wonder if she knows anything about this mystery and why the articles had been stashed in the book.”

Max noted the time and realized the library had officially closed 15 minutes earlier. He apologized to Sarah for keeping her and checked out the reference book with the article inside.

“Would it be too presumptuous of me to ask you to join me for supper this evening” he asked an enamored Sarah.

“I would like that very much” replied Sarah.

The couple left the library after Sarah turned out the lights and locked the door. They stopped by Sarah's house. Sarah wanted to pick up her wrap as the air was turning cooler. Sarah introduced Max to her parents, Marian and Andrew Lane and her two little brothers who were playing a game of catch on the front lawn.

Marian could tell her daughter was taken with this handsome young man and worried about her. He seemed a bit too worldly for her sheltered daughter who lived in a fantasy world with her romance novels. Andrew, on the other hand was happy to see Sarah with a flesh and blood man for a change instead of having her nose buried in a book.

On the way to O'Sullivan's Pub, Sarah told him story after story of the little shops and the people who owned them. He was interested in the citizens of Camden Corners but wanted to learn more about the Lane family and if they had ever returned to Camden Corners.

By the time the corned beef and cabbage arrived at their table, Sarah and Max both felt they had known each other all their lives.

He asked about her family and how long the Lanes had been in Camden Corners. She told him her Dad was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. He had come to Camden Corners right after graduation from normal school and had been teaching at Camden High School ever since. Her mother had lived here all her life. Max wondered aloud what brought Andrew to Camden Corners and Sarah answered that he had relatives who had lived here.

“His great grandfather, Simon and his great great uncle, Caleb were members of the community. It seems, Simon was shot and killed protecting his brother from hoodlums who were passing through town. Caleb set out to capture the thugs and bring them to justice but was killed himself when he was trampled by a horse attempting to save a young lady from the raging waters of the Patapsco River. Simon's widow was so distraught over her husband's death, she died of a broken heart two months later leaving her toddler twin sons alone in the world. The twins were raised in an orphanage. One of those boys was my great grandfather Charles Lane.”

“What a fascinating tale” thought Max. “I certainly can't ask Sarah about the articles now.”

All too soon the evening ended. Max walked Sarah to her front door. He may have tried to kiss her cheek but Marian was standing in the doorway. Max thought he may have seen a rolling pin hidden behind her back. He hoped it was only his imagination. That night, Sarah fell asleep dreaming of her own happy ending with her very own Gilmartin Trent.

Max was enjoying a tasty breakfast served by Mrs. Wharton at the boarding house. He was the first tenant to arrive at the dining table. While Mrs. Wharton was serving him his eggs and bacon he nonchalantly mentioned the Lane Brothers.

Mrs. Wharton suddenly became very quiet.

Finally, she whispered “There is something very strange about that affair. Everyone has been led to believe that those brothers were the salt of the earth but when I was just a young lass, I heard my daddy and his friends talking about the murder. There was a newspaper article that told the story of the disappearance of the entire family, but it hasn't been found in over 70 years. Someone has tried to cover up something strange all these years. My daddy said Caleb Lane picked up a floozy named Sylvia from the pub, married her and took her back to his cabin. From that day on, sweet Miss Hannah had not been seen again. From what I have heard, Miss Sylvia was not a one man woman, if you know what I mean.”

Mrs. Wharton paused to catch her breath and then went on. “You didn't hear that from me. I'm not one to speak ill of the dead, but there is something very strange about that whole thing. Why do you ask, Maxwell?”

“Oh, no reason, I just came upon the Lane name in one of the reference books at the library. I also spent a delightful evening with Miss Sarah Lane.”

As soon as the words were out of his mouth, Max knew the very talkative Mrs. Wharton would be sharing this tidbit of information with the whole town.

Max had an appointment with Robert Crowley. He needed an attorney in Camden Corners if he was planing to stay here very long. His agent had recommended Mr. Crowley to handle his business affairs. Max wanted to keep his alter ego, J. K. Ellingsworth under wraps for the time being. Max was impressed with Robert and felt certain he would be trustworthy.

Max had carried the newspaper clippings with him in his brief case and asked Robert what he thought of it. He mentioned speaking to Mrs. Wharton and what she said about the missing articles. Robert thought it was very interesting. He had heard conflicting stories about the incident through the years but the man to speak with would be his dad, Oscar Crowley.