Eleanor Tatum

Concerning Chapter Five: our characters; Ross, Joann, Trevor, and Catherine, continue their journey from the swamps to the city of Charleston, 150 miles to the south. In my original Gray Lace, each chapter begins with a quote. This one is from Frank A. Clark, “If you find a path with no obstacles, it probably, doesn’t lead anywhere.”

The obstacles are many and my favorite is Killer Chicken. More about him later. For now, Trevor needs a moment to compose himself after killing a creature larger than any on Mr. Mercer’s lodge walls.

As they got to their feet, Trevor smirked, swallowed his self-pride, and asked, “Dinner?”

Catherine zipped her head around from the bear on the ground to him and showed a surprised and thankful expression.

He played the moment. “What? Oh, I’m guessing you don’t know how to skin a bear. That’s fine. Nor do I, but I sure could use a shot of whiskey. Anyone think to bring anyway?”

Ross marched past the women and over to Trevor, while pulling a thin dented flask from his vest pocket. “Have all you want, my good man. Thank you, sincerely. You saved me …us!”

Joann’s arms came from behind Ross and she hugged the stuffing out of him while she cried a song of thankfulness. After taking a healthy swig, Trevor returned the flask with a nod and walked around the affectionate couple. He reached for a frozen Catherine. He had rested his weapon on the ground and braced for her delightful onslaught.

She flew to him. “Trevor, oh my dear God, thank you!”

He wanted to hold on to her for as long as she would allow, but before anymore could be said or enjoyed, another shot barreled through the evening air. They faced the cabin in terror.

Ross held a shaking pistol over the bear’s head. “Sorry, but I had to be sure.” He faced Trevor and worshipped his newest hero. “Thank you, lad, you’re a crack shot. Hunted much?”

Trevor noted the thankfulness and embarrassment in his eyes as he walked toward the bear. “The truth, sir? No, actually I hate guns and admire ,” pausing as he bent to caress the furry head of the large beast at his feet, “most of God’s features.” He choked back a bucket of emotions.

“I’m mighty glad you helped out,” Ross turned to include the ladies as he advised, “Now, those shots might well have been heard as far back as the lodge. We best be going.”

“Wait. What about this magnificent creature?” Trevor hated the sound of his weakness and fear, but damn …then he felt Catherine’s hand on his arm and her gentle tug.

“Trevor, Ross is right. Those shots were heard by everyone within a few miles, including the natives. There’s a settlement not far from here and I assure you, nothing of this animal will waste or rot. Come on now, move. We need to hide and find shelter. The sun’s gone and my Charleston friends might soon be upon us.”

Catherine waited until he stood, then she lifted their bags and headed after the Garretts. They were swallowed by the dusky light and thick swamp underbrush. Trevor retrieved their guns and after giving a respectful nod to the magnificent creature, he followed her.

Egad! & Enough! until next time.