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<blockquote data-quote="Silver Moon" data-source="post: 2813773" data-attributes="member: 8530"><p><strong>Chapter 107, “The New Deputy”, Sunday, March 19th , 1882, 4:45 P.M. </strong> </p><p></p><p>Chester says, "That was quite a miracle then. Hey, Nanuet. The gods must have more for you to do here. By the way Kate, That group of cowboys was carrying some money. Here's your share for all the trouble they've caused us." Chester hands her $23. Kate says, "I really don't need.... Well, I do have a school to furnish. Plus my house at the ranch and the upstairs of the schoolhouse. Alright," she finished and took the folded bills and tucked them into her pocket. </p><p></p><p>Downstairs, Burton Lumbley, owner of the Gay Lady and current Chairman of the Promise City Merchant's Association drops by the Lucky Lady to tell Association Members Niles Hoover and Jake Cook that he's called for an emergency meeting at 5:00 PM over at the Town Hall. Niles asks "Should we bring chairs?" Burton replies, "No, it won't be a long meeting." </p><p></p><p>"Mr. Lumbley," Ruby approaches him, hand outstretched, "In all this time I have lived in Promise City you and I have never been properly introduced. Ruby West, I'm a friend of Ms. Duprey's." "Pleasure to meet you Miss West," he replies taking her hand, but looking distracted. </p><p></p><p>She smiles at him, "I know you have business to attend to, so I won't keep you. Could you please tell Madge I need to speak with her and will come by later today? I would so appreciate it." He nods and Ruby excuses herself. She goes over to the bar and makes herself a drink of whiskey. She looks at it before taking a sip. "You know," she says out loud to no one, "Kate was probably right, I shouldn't be drinking this. Oh well." She drinks it down and places the glass on the bar. "THAT was the last one for now, Ruby West." </p><p></p><p>After the men are speaking Ruby heads to Jake. "I'm going to take a little walk while you have your meeting, but first I'm going to check on Nanuet and Minerva. Will you come right back and let me know what happened?" He replies, "Yes, of course." Jake goes upstairs with Ruby to see Nanuet and the others. He makes light chat seeing how tired and drawn everyone is but asks them to stay here until he gets back from the Merchant's meeting. After making certain everyone is well, he takes Ruby aside and has her relate everything the others have learned and shared. </p><p></p><p>"Nanuet's bullets bounced off Ringo?" Jake has a strange look on his face and scratches his beard. "So how did he get wounded earlier? Hmmm. Damn that Ringo." Jake puts his arms around Ruby, "I know you won't stay in any more than I will. Just be careful wandering around town. All this does is make a body wonder if we did the right thing buying the saloon from Maggie that day." He suddenly snaps his fingers, "Speaking of Maggie I clear forgot I got a letter from her. She says to say hello to Katherine." </p><p></p><p>Jake loosens his belt and reaches in to retrieve his small secret wallet, removes a letter and then hides the wallet again. "Here, read it if you like, or let Katherine read it out loud. She might be interested and school teachers need to be good at that sort of thing." Jake laughs and there is a twinkle in his eye. "I need to make a quick stop to see Rodriguez before the meeting, so I have to run. </p><p></p><p>“I was just going to head over there, I have some business too." Ruby says with a hard look in her eye. "OK, I don't have much time. I'll just tell you what I was thinking and your can handle it with your business. Check to see if there are real blood stains on the floor where Ringo got shot. That and make sure Rodriguez knows that Ringo is probably one of the leaders of the Cowboy gang and not to trust Colin Hunter." He puts his arms back around her and nearly pushes her over backwards with a kiss. "Let's not forget how to live, see you in a little while." </p><p></p><p>Jake then heads over to the Merchant's meeting. Ruby smiles at Jake as he runs off down the steps. Why would Maggie send Jake a letter? She looks at the letter in her hand and reads it, her eyes growing wide and a half smile forming. "Jake..." she calls out but he is already gone. Ruby sighs. This letter will take a bit of explanation, she thinks, better to save it for later, after the business. She sticks it down her bodice and smoothes her dress flat. She sticks her head inside Nanuet's room. </p><p></p><p>"Nanuet, you must get some rest! Kate why don't you take Ginnie downstairs and feed her. If you'd like to nap use our room. Or maybe Ginnie would like to play with the puppies? And I wonder what happened to Tricia Shaw? She must have run off with that boyfriend of hers." Ruby doesn't wait for any answers as she looks distracted and she starts heading out. </p><p></p><p>The Promise City Merchants Association was founded in 1881 after the prior Promise City Civic Association broke into two factions. In the year since its founding the group has managed to get the exterior of a town hall built, purchased land for a school, built a municipal storage shed and hired a Town Marshall and Deputies to keep the peace. </p><p></p><p>The membership currently consists of 55 town merchants. All merchant businesses in town are required to join although mines, ranches, farms and businesses without permanent structures are exempt from membership. All members contribute monthly dues. Each business is allowed only one voting member. Members of the public are allowed to attend and the press is usually in attendance. Meetings are usually held twice a month, from 7:00 to 8:00 AM on a weekday. </p><p></p><p>Jake Cook arrives at 4:50 PM at the emergency session. Jake had replaced Tom Whipple as a member in January. Niles Hoover arrives soon thereafter. Although Niles is co-owner of the Lucky Lady he has his own vote as he maintains his liquor distribution as a separate business. </p><p></p><p>Burton Lumley begins the meeting promptly at 5:00 PM. He thanks everybody for coming on such short notice and notes that 42 members are present. Jake notes that two of the four female members are present, namely Kate Higgins of the Long Branch Saloon and Laurie Gilson of Gilson's baths. Absent are Kay Kaufman of the Promise City Cooper Shop and Helen Barker of Barker's Photography Studio. Both non-human members are present, half-orc Harry Wong of Wong's Laundry and wood elf Pedro Figures of the El Parador. Also present is Angelica Young of the Promise City Herald taking notes. </p><p></p><p>Burton states "The reason for this meeting should be obvious to everyone. We have a lack of lawmen at the moment and the Cowboy Gang is taking advantage of that fact. There were two shootouts here just a little over an hour ago." Michael George of Peacock's Saloon states "The Earps have a right to attend their brother's funeral." Bill Watkins interjects "I told you it was a mistake hiring Earp." The room erupts in multiple simultaneous conversations. </p><p></p><p>Burton calls the meeting back to order. "I'm not saying they didn't have a legitimate reason to leave but the truth is that we need Wyatt and Warren back here to do the job we hired them for. I propose that we send a sub-committee comprised of three members to Tombstone to recall them. We need them back here now!" </p><p></p><p>Kris Wagner says that he cannot go but does offer to provide the subcommittee free passage on the stagecoach the next morning. He adds "But unless you can convince him to get packed and come back in the hour before the stage leaves for the return trip you'll have to spend a night there." Lumley replies, "Getting Wyatt to do something he's not inclined to won't be easy. I doubt we'll be back until Tuesday." </p><p></p><p>Roger Fly of Fly's Boarding House and Photo studio says, "Then I'll go. My brother owns a Boarding House in Tombstone and currently has some vacant rooms. The subcommittee can stay there, but I doubt he'd pay for our meals. Neil Cassidy of Cassidy Lumber says, "You can count me in then. I have partial ownership of a saloon in Tombstone. We can eat there." </p><p></p><p>Evan Adair of the Palace Saloon says, "We also need to address the more immediate problem. We need somebody in this town to uphold the law other than a wood elf who won't carry a gun and is glued to his prisoner in the jail." Sam Slade of Slade's Hardware says, "Why is that prisoner even here?" "Murder charge," Lumley interjects. </p><p></p><p>Lawyer Hamilton Fisk says, "That murder took place at a ranch a mile away. Outside of the town's jurisdiction. This should be a County matter instead." Attorney Mitchell Berg says, "Well, this town has never incorporated itself with the Arizona Territory so technically there is no town jurisdiction and it can all fall under County Law. We've just never wanted the Sheriff’s department involved in town matters." "More a case of them not wanting our problems" Laurie Gilson interjects. Fisk says, "I say we turn this prisoner over to Deputy Sheriff Hunter." </p><p></p><p>Adair says, "We still have a problem of needing a lawman to maintain order until the Earps return. I propose that we fire that wood elf and hire somebody competent." Berg says, "Adair, we all know your opinion of non-humans. Let's not fire the only lawman we currently have. But I do think hiring another deputy might be in order." </p><p></p><p>Cole Rixton of Rixton's Furniture says, "Why not pin a badge on the man who stopped the most recent shootout, Chester Martin. He's a former soldier and stood up to Deadeye Douglas when Condon's Bank was robbed last January." Frank Condon looks like he is about to say something but then opts not to. "Who was that guy Martin shot?" lawyer Elihu Upton asks. Peter Lovelace of the Rio Grande Hotel and Cafe says "Pony Deal. He's been to my restaurant before. Rumor has it that he was one of the top lieutenants of the Cowboy Gang." </p><p></p><p>Jake listens quietly for a while and tries to read expressions to see who is aligned with whom. Then he hears Chester’s name come up and steps forward. "That Martin is a brave lad, good to his word too. I'll second that nomination. I don't know if he wants the job or not. Maybe you could talk him into it at least for a short time. I agree that it would be foolish to lose another lawman at this time but we do need to get Rodriguez out of that jail and on to the street. Why don't we hire some men to be sort of junior deputies to guard the prisoner only. They won't be law on the street, it gets Rodriguez out doing his job, and the Earps won't be mad that we transferred their prisoner. It could be hard enough getting them back right away without giving him more reason to be angry. Why, they may even want to come back sooner to find out what Gifford knows about the gang and Morgan's murder. If Martin wants the job, let him hire a few men for guard duty until the Earps come back." </p><p></p><p>Jake starts to step back then says, "Oh, and I'm headed to Tombstone anyway on business if you want me on the subcommittee." </p><p></p><p>In response to Jake's comments Sam Slade says, "If the Earps want to question this Gifford then why don't we ship him off to Tombstone tomorrow too. As for hiring more deputies, you may be made of money Mr. Cook but the rest of us aren't." Mitchell Berg says, "I'm not suggesting that we hire a group, only one more, at least until the Earps return." Niles Hoover says, "Excuse me for a minute and I'll go see if I can find Mr. Martin to see if he is even interested." </p><p></p><p>Doctor Eaton interjects "Just bring him here, don't say why yet. I'm not convinced we're interested in him specifically." Evan Adair says, "Yeah I'm not sure about him either. He's friend with that Indian who has been loitering around town the last month or so." Travis Calhoun of the Gunsight Brickyard interjects "That Indian is named Nanuet and he's done some work for me. He's a good man." Zack Morand says, "I've worked with him too, keep your racist comments to yourself Adair." </p><p></p><p>Jake says, "Mr. Slade, I appreciate your concern about the costs, but Bill Watkins could have lost his business today in a fire caused by these outlaws. That could have been any of our establishments. I shudder to think of the costs to rebuild. I'm just tossing out ideas. We might have to spend a little more in the short term to resolve this problem. Your point is well made." </p><p></p><p>Burton Lumley yells out, "Gentlemen, no reason to fight among ourselves. Before we decide who to hire shouldn't we first vote if we even want a third Deputy Marshall? We can decide who afterwards" A short discussion follows, with most opposed not in favor of the cost of an extra $ 50 a month to the Association. A vote is taken with thirty-four in favor six opposed, and two abstentions. </p><p></p><p>Al Brower says, "On the subject of the prisoner Gifford. I've heard a rumor that the reason that Pony Deal and Johnny Ringo were in town today was because of him. Does anyone know if that is true?" Jake interjects, "Seems like the Cowboy gang is afraid Gifford will talk to the law. If that's true he could be the key to breaking that gang's hold on the county. Sure would help business if that were to happen." </p><p></p><p>Doctor Eaton says, "All the more reason to get him out of town. His presence here is a danger to our families. Put him on the stage in the morning if you think that Cassidy, Cook and Fly can handle him." Kris Wagner says, "I'll add a second man on shotgun for the ride just in case." </p><p></p><p>"Will that really keep the Cowboys away?" Laurie Gilson asks. Rufus Davis of the Arizona Billiard Hall says, "It should. I overheard a conversation in my billiard hall on Saturday night between some guys from Galeyville. They talked about the Cowboy Gang so at least one of them must have been a member. Said that Deadeye Douglas left the Territory after that jailbreak and since then four heavy hitters in the Gang have been in a power struggle for leadership. Two of 'em were Deal and Ringo. The other two they mentioned are Billy Claibourne and Frank Stilwell, both Tombstone folks, so there's no reason for them to come back here once Gifford is gone." "Unless they want to play pool" somebody mutters from the back of the room. </p><p></p><p>Niles Hoover had been asked to get Chester from the Lucky Lady. Hoover finds him sitting in the common room. "Hey, Chester. Could you come with me? The Merchants Association would like to see you." Chester replies, "Why me? I'm not a shopkeeper." Niles says, "I can't tell you. Trust me, you'll want to hear this. Just hear us out." Chet says, "OK. I wasn't doing much anyway. Lead on. Say, aren't the Condons members?" Hover answers, "They are, but they only have one vote, like the rest of the members." </p><p></p><p>Hoover enters the room with Chester in tow. "Here he is." Chester removes his hat and looks over the crowd, staring an extra second at Frank Condon. He nods to Jake. "Afternoon folks. What's this about? Mr. Hoover wouldn't tell me." Mr. Lumbley speaks, "Ah, Mr. Martin. Welcome to this meeting of the Merchant's Association. Fine bit of marksmanship getting Pony Deal today. With him gone, the Cowboy Gang has lost another leader." Chester clears his throat. </p><p></p><p>Lumbley continues, "Right, the reason we've asked you here is to offer you a position as Deputy Marshall for Promise City. We're a growing town and we need more lawmen. Are you interested?" Chester says, "I might be. What are the duties and how much is the pay?" </p><p></p><p>Lumley replies, "It pays $ 50 a month. You have to pay for most of your own expenses. You could use either the town-own weapons or your own. We'll pay for all of your ammunition. You basically work for the Town Marshall and enforce the law here in Promise City. Generally the land outside of town falls out of your jurisdiction, although you are allowed to go further out to investigate crimes and hunt down criminals wanted for crimes committed here in town. For now we'd just want you to keep an eye on things here in town until Marshall Earp returns." </p><p></p><p>Adair protests "You can't offer him the job, we haven't voted on that yet." Lumley tells him "Evan, I was just answering his question. I know we have to put that to a vote." He turns back to Chester and says, "As my fellow Association member has pointed out, we just voted to hire another Deputy Marshall but a second vote is needed to appoint somebody specific. Could you please tell the group why you think you are qualified for the job?" </p><p></p><p>Chester straightens and says, "Well, sir. The way I see it, the biggest threat to the town comes from the Cowboy Gang. I'm no friend to them, since they tried to kill me a few times already. We need to show them that murder won't be allowed, if this town is going to be the place most of us want it to be. Since I've been here in Promise City, I've been a bouncer, a bank guard..." Chester looks at Condon, almost daring him to say something. "and, I run security for one of the local mines. As some of you may know, I was a cavalry scout with the United States Army. So, I am no stranger to keeping the peace." </p><p></p><p>Evan Adair says, "Under what circumstances did you leave the Army, Mr. Martin?" Chester looks down for a second. He looks up and replies, "I was dishonorably discharged a couple years ago for striking a superior officer. We had a... disagreement." </p><p></p><p>Pedro stands and says "Mr. Martin has been staying at my hotel. He's a good man. His disagreement was that he punched his commanding officer in the face for treating people unfairly. In the time that he has been in town he has been a good friend to all honest men." Condon again looks like he wants to stay something but keeps quiet. </p><p></p><p>Mitchell Berg says, "He sounds willing. Are there any others of you who wish to volunteer instead?" Sam Slade says "How about that Newton Gilly who rides shotgun for Wells Fargo." Kris Wagner replies, "You're not stealing my best shooter. The stagecoach needs him as much as anyone." There don't appear to be any other suggestions. </p><p></p><p>It is put to a vote and Chester is elected Deputy Marshall by a vote of 31 to 11. A badge is pinned on him. Lumley says, "We have a meeting scheduled for Tuesday morning at 7:00. If we get Wyatt back tomorrow night we'll hold it then. Otherwise we'll postpone it until the morning after the Marshall returns. I call this meeting adjourned." Lumley tells Chester "Let's head over to the Marshall's Office to get you a badge and tell your fellow Deputy that he now has a partner." Chester replies, Thank you, Mr. Lumley. I can't wait to get started. By the way, who do I report to? The Earps?" </p><p></p><p>Lumley replies, "Yes, Wyatt Earp is your new boss. Until he's back in town take direction from Deputy Rodriguez. He may have less than a week's seniority on you but Wyatt trained him in the duties and responsibilities of the job. If you have any problems with him come see me privately at the Gay Lady, don't express them in public. Is that clear?" Chester answers, "Crystal. I shouldn't have a problem with him, though." </p><p></p><p>Chester sees Jake waving him over. "Excuse me. I won't be long." Jake intercepts Chester outside the meeting, "Congratulations soldier! You have a new career. I bet Miss Townsend will be impressed." Jake gives him a nudge of his elbow. "After you finish checking in at your new office, come on back to the Lady for dinner. Folks will want to congratulate you, and we should all talk before Ruby and I head over to Tombstone." </p><p></p><p>Chester replies, "Thanks Jake. I guess she will. This is a big thing. And you bet I'll be at the Lucky Lady. If the cowboys want a fight, then they've got one coming to them. See you later." Chester rejoins Lumley. "Lead the way. I'm sure Deputy Rodriguez needs a break." Jake leaves Deputy Marshall Martin with a hearty pat on the back. Jake calls out to Fly and Cassidy, "I'll see you gentlemen in the morning." </p><p></p><p>Lumley and Martin enters the Marshall's office. Lumbley says, "Deputy? This is Chester Martin. He's the new deputy Marshall. Until Marshall Earp returns from his family business, teach Martin how things run around here." "I've met Mr. Martin a couple times before. No hard feelings from that business with the Condons?" Eduardo reaches out his hand. Chester shakes it. "Nope. You were just doing your duty. Jake and I are out of jail and Jones is out of town. I'm here to help you out, Deputy." Lumbley says, "I've got to get back to the Gay Lady. I'll leave you two to get acquainted." </p><p></p><p>Rodriquez gives Chester the tour of the jail, showing him what each key is for and explaining all of the weapons. He asks Chet about the meeting and laughs when Chester explains the vote was 3 to 1 in favor. "Better than me, my vote was twenty-six in favor and twenty-four opposed. And I wouldn't have gotten that if Wyatt hadn't been planning to leave town the next morning and stated as much." </p><p></p><p>They chat for a while longer and then Eduardo says, "Look, this came as a surprise to you. Why don't you go get some supper and relax a bit. I have this guy for now, although if you're willing to take the overnight shift here I'd be very appreciative." "Thanks. I can watch him tonight. You want anything from the Lucky Lady? You know how dinner is." "That would be great. See you later." Chester walks out the door of the office and brushes his sleeve on the badge. He shakes his head and says softly, "Who would have thought? An honest-to-goodness lawman.”</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Silver Moon, post: 2813773, member: 8530"] [B]Chapter 107, “The New Deputy”, Sunday, March 19th , 1882, 4:45 P.M. [/B] Chester says, "That was quite a miracle then. Hey, Nanuet. The gods must have more for you to do here. By the way Kate, That group of cowboys was carrying some money. Here's your share for all the trouble they've caused us." Chester hands her $23. Kate says, "I really don't need.... Well, I do have a school to furnish. Plus my house at the ranch and the upstairs of the schoolhouse. Alright," she finished and took the folded bills and tucked them into her pocket. Downstairs, Burton Lumbley, owner of the Gay Lady and current Chairman of the Promise City Merchant's Association drops by the Lucky Lady to tell Association Members Niles Hoover and Jake Cook that he's called for an emergency meeting at 5:00 PM over at the Town Hall. Niles asks "Should we bring chairs?" Burton replies, "No, it won't be a long meeting." "Mr. Lumbley," Ruby approaches him, hand outstretched, "In all this time I have lived in Promise City you and I have never been properly introduced. Ruby West, I'm a friend of Ms. Duprey's." "Pleasure to meet you Miss West," he replies taking her hand, but looking distracted. She smiles at him, "I know you have business to attend to, so I won't keep you. Could you please tell Madge I need to speak with her and will come by later today? I would so appreciate it." He nods and Ruby excuses herself. She goes over to the bar and makes herself a drink of whiskey. She looks at it before taking a sip. "You know," she says out loud to no one, "Kate was probably right, I shouldn't be drinking this. Oh well." She drinks it down and places the glass on the bar. "THAT was the last one for now, Ruby West." After the men are speaking Ruby heads to Jake. "I'm going to take a little walk while you have your meeting, but first I'm going to check on Nanuet and Minerva. Will you come right back and let me know what happened?" He replies, "Yes, of course." Jake goes upstairs with Ruby to see Nanuet and the others. He makes light chat seeing how tired and drawn everyone is but asks them to stay here until he gets back from the Merchant's meeting. After making certain everyone is well, he takes Ruby aside and has her relate everything the others have learned and shared. "Nanuet's bullets bounced off Ringo?" Jake has a strange look on his face and scratches his beard. "So how did he get wounded earlier? Hmmm. Damn that Ringo." Jake puts his arms around Ruby, "I know you won't stay in any more than I will. Just be careful wandering around town. All this does is make a body wonder if we did the right thing buying the saloon from Maggie that day." He suddenly snaps his fingers, "Speaking of Maggie I clear forgot I got a letter from her. She says to say hello to Katherine." Jake loosens his belt and reaches in to retrieve his small secret wallet, removes a letter and then hides the wallet again. "Here, read it if you like, or let Katherine read it out loud. She might be interested and school teachers need to be good at that sort of thing." Jake laughs and there is a twinkle in his eye. "I need to make a quick stop to see Rodriguez before the meeting, so I have to run. “I was just going to head over there, I have some business too." Ruby says with a hard look in her eye. "OK, I don't have much time. I'll just tell you what I was thinking and your can handle it with your business. Check to see if there are real blood stains on the floor where Ringo got shot. That and make sure Rodriguez knows that Ringo is probably one of the leaders of the Cowboy gang and not to trust Colin Hunter." He puts his arms back around her and nearly pushes her over backwards with a kiss. "Let's not forget how to live, see you in a little while." Jake then heads over to the Merchant's meeting. Ruby smiles at Jake as he runs off down the steps. Why would Maggie send Jake a letter? She looks at the letter in her hand and reads it, her eyes growing wide and a half smile forming. "Jake..." she calls out but he is already gone. Ruby sighs. This letter will take a bit of explanation, she thinks, better to save it for later, after the business. She sticks it down her bodice and smoothes her dress flat. She sticks her head inside Nanuet's room. "Nanuet, you must get some rest! Kate why don't you take Ginnie downstairs and feed her. If you'd like to nap use our room. Or maybe Ginnie would like to play with the puppies? And I wonder what happened to Tricia Shaw? She must have run off with that boyfriend of hers." Ruby doesn't wait for any answers as she looks distracted and she starts heading out. The Promise City Merchants Association was founded in 1881 after the prior Promise City Civic Association broke into two factions. In the year since its founding the group has managed to get the exterior of a town hall built, purchased land for a school, built a municipal storage shed and hired a Town Marshall and Deputies to keep the peace. The membership currently consists of 55 town merchants. All merchant businesses in town are required to join although mines, ranches, farms and businesses without permanent structures are exempt from membership. All members contribute monthly dues. Each business is allowed only one voting member. Members of the public are allowed to attend and the press is usually in attendance. Meetings are usually held twice a month, from 7:00 to 8:00 AM on a weekday. Jake Cook arrives at 4:50 PM at the emergency session. Jake had replaced Tom Whipple as a member in January. Niles Hoover arrives soon thereafter. Although Niles is co-owner of the Lucky Lady he has his own vote as he maintains his liquor distribution as a separate business. Burton Lumley begins the meeting promptly at 5:00 PM. He thanks everybody for coming on such short notice and notes that 42 members are present. Jake notes that two of the four female members are present, namely Kate Higgins of the Long Branch Saloon and Laurie Gilson of Gilson's baths. Absent are Kay Kaufman of the Promise City Cooper Shop and Helen Barker of Barker's Photography Studio. Both non-human members are present, half-orc Harry Wong of Wong's Laundry and wood elf Pedro Figures of the El Parador. Also present is Angelica Young of the Promise City Herald taking notes. Burton states "The reason for this meeting should be obvious to everyone. We have a lack of lawmen at the moment and the Cowboy Gang is taking advantage of that fact. There were two shootouts here just a little over an hour ago." Michael George of Peacock's Saloon states "The Earps have a right to attend their brother's funeral." Bill Watkins interjects "I told you it was a mistake hiring Earp." The room erupts in multiple simultaneous conversations. Burton calls the meeting back to order. "I'm not saying they didn't have a legitimate reason to leave but the truth is that we need Wyatt and Warren back here to do the job we hired them for. I propose that we send a sub-committee comprised of three members to Tombstone to recall them. We need them back here now!" Kris Wagner says that he cannot go but does offer to provide the subcommittee free passage on the stagecoach the next morning. He adds "But unless you can convince him to get packed and come back in the hour before the stage leaves for the return trip you'll have to spend a night there." Lumley replies, "Getting Wyatt to do something he's not inclined to won't be easy. I doubt we'll be back until Tuesday." Roger Fly of Fly's Boarding House and Photo studio says, "Then I'll go. My brother owns a Boarding House in Tombstone and currently has some vacant rooms. The subcommittee can stay there, but I doubt he'd pay for our meals. Neil Cassidy of Cassidy Lumber says, "You can count me in then. I have partial ownership of a saloon in Tombstone. We can eat there." Evan Adair of the Palace Saloon says, "We also need to address the more immediate problem. We need somebody in this town to uphold the law other than a wood elf who won't carry a gun and is glued to his prisoner in the jail." Sam Slade of Slade's Hardware says, "Why is that prisoner even here?" "Murder charge," Lumley interjects. Lawyer Hamilton Fisk says, "That murder took place at a ranch a mile away. Outside of the town's jurisdiction. This should be a County matter instead." Attorney Mitchell Berg says, "Well, this town has never incorporated itself with the Arizona Territory so technically there is no town jurisdiction and it can all fall under County Law. We've just never wanted the Sheriff’s department involved in town matters." "More a case of them not wanting our problems" Laurie Gilson interjects. Fisk says, "I say we turn this prisoner over to Deputy Sheriff Hunter." Adair says, "We still have a problem of needing a lawman to maintain order until the Earps return. I propose that we fire that wood elf and hire somebody competent." Berg says, "Adair, we all know your opinion of non-humans. Let's not fire the only lawman we currently have. But I do think hiring another deputy might be in order." Cole Rixton of Rixton's Furniture says, "Why not pin a badge on the man who stopped the most recent shootout, Chester Martin. He's a former soldier and stood up to Deadeye Douglas when Condon's Bank was robbed last January." Frank Condon looks like he is about to say something but then opts not to. "Who was that guy Martin shot?" lawyer Elihu Upton asks. Peter Lovelace of the Rio Grande Hotel and Cafe says "Pony Deal. He's been to my restaurant before. Rumor has it that he was one of the top lieutenants of the Cowboy Gang." Jake listens quietly for a while and tries to read expressions to see who is aligned with whom. Then he hears Chester’s name come up and steps forward. "That Martin is a brave lad, good to his word too. I'll second that nomination. I don't know if he wants the job or not. Maybe you could talk him into it at least for a short time. I agree that it would be foolish to lose another lawman at this time but we do need to get Rodriguez out of that jail and on to the street. Why don't we hire some men to be sort of junior deputies to guard the prisoner only. They won't be law on the street, it gets Rodriguez out doing his job, and the Earps won't be mad that we transferred their prisoner. It could be hard enough getting them back right away without giving him more reason to be angry. Why, they may even want to come back sooner to find out what Gifford knows about the gang and Morgan's murder. If Martin wants the job, let him hire a few men for guard duty until the Earps come back." Jake starts to step back then says, "Oh, and I'm headed to Tombstone anyway on business if you want me on the subcommittee." In response to Jake's comments Sam Slade says, "If the Earps want to question this Gifford then why don't we ship him off to Tombstone tomorrow too. As for hiring more deputies, you may be made of money Mr. Cook but the rest of us aren't." Mitchell Berg says, "I'm not suggesting that we hire a group, only one more, at least until the Earps return." Niles Hoover says, "Excuse me for a minute and I'll go see if I can find Mr. Martin to see if he is even interested." Doctor Eaton interjects "Just bring him here, don't say why yet. I'm not convinced we're interested in him specifically." Evan Adair says, "Yeah I'm not sure about him either. He's friend with that Indian who has been loitering around town the last month or so." Travis Calhoun of the Gunsight Brickyard interjects "That Indian is named Nanuet and he's done some work for me. He's a good man." Zack Morand says, "I've worked with him too, keep your racist comments to yourself Adair." Jake says, "Mr. Slade, I appreciate your concern about the costs, but Bill Watkins could have lost his business today in a fire caused by these outlaws. That could have been any of our establishments. I shudder to think of the costs to rebuild. I'm just tossing out ideas. We might have to spend a little more in the short term to resolve this problem. Your point is well made." Burton Lumley yells out, "Gentlemen, no reason to fight among ourselves. Before we decide who to hire shouldn't we first vote if we even want a third Deputy Marshall? We can decide who afterwards" A short discussion follows, with most opposed not in favor of the cost of an extra $ 50 a month to the Association. A vote is taken with thirty-four in favor six opposed, and two abstentions. Al Brower says, "On the subject of the prisoner Gifford. I've heard a rumor that the reason that Pony Deal and Johnny Ringo were in town today was because of him. Does anyone know if that is true?" Jake interjects, "Seems like the Cowboy gang is afraid Gifford will talk to the law. If that's true he could be the key to breaking that gang's hold on the county. Sure would help business if that were to happen." Doctor Eaton says, "All the more reason to get him out of town. His presence here is a danger to our families. Put him on the stage in the morning if you think that Cassidy, Cook and Fly can handle him." Kris Wagner says, "I'll add a second man on shotgun for the ride just in case." "Will that really keep the Cowboys away?" Laurie Gilson asks. Rufus Davis of the Arizona Billiard Hall says, "It should. I overheard a conversation in my billiard hall on Saturday night between some guys from Galeyville. They talked about the Cowboy Gang so at least one of them must have been a member. Said that Deadeye Douglas left the Territory after that jailbreak and since then four heavy hitters in the Gang have been in a power struggle for leadership. Two of 'em were Deal and Ringo. The other two they mentioned are Billy Claibourne and Frank Stilwell, both Tombstone folks, so there's no reason for them to come back here once Gifford is gone." "Unless they want to play pool" somebody mutters from the back of the room. Niles Hoover had been asked to get Chester from the Lucky Lady. Hoover finds him sitting in the common room. "Hey, Chester. Could you come with me? The Merchants Association would like to see you." Chester replies, "Why me? I'm not a shopkeeper." Niles says, "I can't tell you. Trust me, you'll want to hear this. Just hear us out." Chet says, "OK. I wasn't doing much anyway. Lead on. Say, aren't the Condons members?" Hover answers, "They are, but they only have one vote, like the rest of the members." Hoover enters the room with Chester in tow. "Here he is." Chester removes his hat and looks over the crowd, staring an extra second at Frank Condon. He nods to Jake. "Afternoon folks. What's this about? Mr. Hoover wouldn't tell me." Mr. Lumbley speaks, "Ah, Mr. Martin. Welcome to this meeting of the Merchant's Association. Fine bit of marksmanship getting Pony Deal today. With him gone, the Cowboy Gang has lost another leader." Chester clears his throat. Lumbley continues, "Right, the reason we've asked you here is to offer you a position as Deputy Marshall for Promise City. We're a growing town and we need more lawmen. Are you interested?" Chester says, "I might be. What are the duties and how much is the pay?" Lumley replies, "It pays $ 50 a month. You have to pay for most of your own expenses. You could use either the town-own weapons or your own. We'll pay for all of your ammunition. You basically work for the Town Marshall and enforce the law here in Promise City. Generally the land outside of town falls out of your jurisdiction, although you are allowed to go further out to investigate crimes and hunt down criminals wanted for crimes committed here in town. For now we'd just want you to keep an eye on things here in town until Marshall Earp returns." Adair protests "You can't offer him the job, we haven't voted on that yet." Lumley tells him "Evan, I was just answering his question. I know we have to put that to a vote." He turns back to Chester and says, "As my fellow Association member has pointed out, we just voted to hire another Deputy Marshall but a second vote is needed to appoint somebody specific. Could you please tell the group why you think you are qualified for the job?" Chester straightens and says, "Well, sir. The way I see it, the biggest threat to the town comes from the Cowboy Gang. I'm no friend to them, since they tried to kill me a few times already. We need to show them that murder won't be allowed, if this town is going to be the place most of us want it to be. Since I've been here in Promise City, I've been a bouncer, a bank guard..." Chester looks at Condon, almost daring him to say something. "and, I run security for one of the local mines. As some of you may know, I was a cavalry scout with the United States Army. So, I am no stranger to keeping the peace." Evan Adair says, "Under what circumstances did you leave the Army, Mr. Martin?" Chester looks down for a second. He looks up and replies, "I was dishonorably discharged a couple years ago for striking a superior officer. We had a... disagreement." Pedro stands and says "Mr. Martin has been staying at my hotel. He's a good man. His disagreement was that he punched his commanding officer in the face for treating people unfairly. In the time that he has been in town he has been a good friend to all honest men." Condon again looks like he wants to stay something but keeps quiet. Mitchell Berg says, "He sounds willing. Are there any others of you who wish to volunteer instead?" Sam Slade says "How about that Newton Gilly who rides shotgun for Wells Fargo." Kris Wagner replies, "You're not stealing my best shooter. The stagecoach needs him as much as anyone." There don't appear to be any other suggestions. It is put to a vote and Chester is elected Deputy Marshall by a vote of 31 to 11. A badge is pinned on him. Lumley says, "We have a meeting scheduled for Tuesday morning at 7:00. If we get Wyatt back tomorrow night we'll hold it then. Otherwise we'll postpone it until the morning after the Marshall returns. I call this meeting adjourned." Lumley tells Chester "Let's head over to the Marshall's Office to get you a badge and tell your fellow Deputy that he now has a partner." Chester replies, Thank you, Mr. Lumley. I can't wait to get started. By the way, who do I report to? The Earps?" Lumley replies, "Yes, Wyatt Earp is your new boss. Until he's back in town take direction from Deputy Rodriguez. He may have less than a week's seniority on you but Wyatt trained him in the duties and responsibilities of the job. If you have any problems with him come see me privately at the Gay Lady, don't express them in public. Is that clear?" Chester answers, "Crystal. I shouldn't have a problem with him, though." Chester sees Jake waving him over. "Excuse me. I won't be long." Jake intercepts Chester outside the meeting, "Congratulations soldier! You have a new career. I bet Miss Townsend will be impressed." Jake gives him a nudge of his elbow. "After you finish checking in at your new office, come on back to the Lady for dinner. Folks will want to congratulate you, and we should all talk before Ruby and I head over to Tombstone." Chester replies, "Thanks Jake. I guess she will. This is a big thing. And you bet I'll be at the Lucky Lady. If the cowboys want a fight, then they've got one coming to them. See you later." Chester rejoins Lumley. "Lead the way. I'm sure Deputy Rodriguez needs a break." Jake leaves Deputy Marshall Martin with a hearty pat on the back. Jake calls out to Fly and Cassidy, "I'll see you gentlemen in the morning." Lumley and Martin enters the Marshall's office. Lumbley says, "Deputy? This is Chester Martin. He's the new deputy Marshall. Until Marshall Earp returns from his family business, teach Martin how things run around here." "I've met Mr. Martin a couple times before. No hard feelings from that business with the Condons?" Eduardo reaches out his hand. Chester shakes it. "Nope. You were just doing your duty. Jake and I are out of jail and Jones is out of town. I'm here to help you out, Deputy." Lumbley says, "I've got to get back to the Gay Lady. I'll leave you two to get acquainted." Rodriquez gives Chester the tour of the jail, showing him what each key is for and explaining all of the weapons. He asks Chet about the meeting and laughs when Chester explains the vote was 3 to 1 in favor. "Better than me, my vote was twenty-six in favor and twenty-four opposed. And I wouldn't have gotten that if Wyatt hadn't been planning to leave town the next morning and stated as much." They chat for a while longer and then Eduardo says, "Look, this came as a surprise to you. Why don't you go get some supper and relax a bit. I have this guy for now, although if you're willing to take the overnight shift here I'd be very appreciative." "Thanks. I can watch him tonight. You want anything from the Lucky Lady? You know how dinner is." "That would be great. See you later." Chester walks out the door of the office and brushes his sleeve on the badge. He shakes his head and says softly, "Who would have thought? An honest-to-goodness lawman.” [/QUOTE]
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