Town Meeting

February 5, 1877

South Maddock Reformed Church Indoors

The Reformed Church of Maddock has whitewashed walls, a plank floor, and windows along the north and south walls. The sanctuary is dominated by the huge, unornamented wooden cross hanging high on the east wall, above the altar. To one side of the altar stands a sturdy oaken pulpit. Eight rows of dark wooden pews, divided by an aisle in the center, face to the east. Two rows of pews in the northeast, facing south, provide room for a choir. In the southeast sits a wonderful pipe organ, newly imported from Germany, probably the finest in the territory (if not the only one). A banister stairway in the southwest goes up to the steeple, and an iron stove in the northwest gives heat in the wintertime. There is no gaudy ornamentation, the windows being simple paned glass and the altar vessels wrought brass. When empty, the church evokes a mood of quiet prayer; before a service, full of people, it seems lively and cheerful.

[various descriptions]

Miss Gem

The town burned down and it's the dead of winter, and _still_ Gem Trotters is dressed in the latest Parisian fashion. Wool, for practicality; rich brown in color, so rich it hints of gold, and highlights the same hints of color in her dark hair. High-collared for warmth, long corseted lines emphasizing natural curves and her height, slightly taller than average. Overlooking the discreet shaping of a bustle, the skirt is quite straight, with row upon row of ruffled lace, cream-colored, at the hem. Over this she wears a gorgeous deep green coat, nearly ground-length and trimmed in rich gold, with enough fidgety buttons to satisfy the most particular eye. And a hat: boxy, round, tilted forward over tidily styled hair and not quite shadowing wide blue eyes.

Framingham

Shorter than average, with a frame that those in genteel society refer to as "portly," Judge Framingham hardly looks like a formidable member of the bench at first glance. Only his grey hair and stern expression fit the image, giving him a measure of dignity. His black morning coat and vest make a stylish contrast to his gray trousers. His high white shirt collars rise to the base of his chin and frame his black bow tie. He wears a stovepipe hat, after the fashion of the late President Linclon, which makes him seem a little taller. Since it is winter, he also wears great coat over the rest of his clothing when he is outside, along with a heavy, wool scarf and leather gloves.

Agnes

Rich chestnut brown hair tangles with strands shaded oak-blonde and auburn and is brushed back from her forehead only to curl in waves clearly captured by thick braids coiled at the nape of her neck. She isn't a tall woman but in fact there is pride in her spine. Slate grey eyes, sometimes smokey, look out from under sooty black lashes. She is not a beauty in the traditional sense of the word, but she is fair to look upon in the way of wind and stone, sometimes ethereal, sometimes earthy as the mood takes her.

She wears a plain dark brown skirt, narrow waist captured by the onefine thing she owns, a wide leather belt with a polished brass buckle. Her shirt is white, cuffs neat, little pleats along the shoulders.

Ryan

He's a tallish fellow, over six feet, with skin that's rough and darkened from long hours in the sun. Prominent eyebrows cast his deep-set eyes into shadow, making them seem like black pits in all but the brightest noonday sun. The man's hair is dark and straight, and both his hair and close-cropped beard appear recently trimmed. His clothing is worn, but reasonably clean and certainly serviceable: leather boots with brown trousers tucked into 'em, a collarless white shirt and buttoned vest, the whole covered with a worn duster and topped with an unadorned black hat. There's no sign of a gun-belt, oddly enough. When all's said, there's a stalwart feeling to the man, which gives an impression that, if nothing else, he endures.

Garrett

Michael J. Garrett is a man of middling height and middling years. You'd guess him to be in his early thirties. He wears a pleasant expression most of the time, his light blue eyes shining as he smiles. He looks and acts every bit the proper Eastern gentleman. His hair is raven and he has adopted the Western custom of wearing a moustache, which is also black. He is adorned in what is mostly a long wool coat. It is a dark grey tweed which only makes the blue in his eyes more pronounced. Under it you can catch glimpses of his normal dressy clothes: The tailored pants and pinstriped shirt under a vest of black. He wears a broad-rimmed black hat with a small band of turquoise.

Tucker

William Tucker stands just under 6 feet. He has always been lanky and wiry, and even with age, that image still describes him. He appears to be in his late thirties to early forties. His skin is darkly tanned from many years in the sun. Wrinkles add texture to his face, drawing firm lines across what was once a smooth face. His hair is a short, sandy brown. A Scattering of grey mark his temples and travel over his ears. A sight somewhat premature for a man who still seems youthful. His eyes are hazel and expressive of his moods, changing with emotion and light. A shiny silver star, surrounded by a circle, is always visible upon his left breast. The badge of a Federal Marshal.

Tucker is wearing a black buttoned up long sleeve shirt. The brass buttons shine in bright contrast to the stark shirt. Black trousers are cleanly pressed and cinched with a grey belt. Armadillo skinned pointy-toed boots shine from under the trousers. He wears a white broad rimmed hat, surrounded by a black hatband. The hatband is puncuated at regular intervals by blue-green beads. A shiny silver star surrounded by a circle glistens like the stars above upon the sea of night blackness. A brown leather gun holster hangs low on his hips. Brass .38 bullets surround the holster at regular intervals. A pair of Remington revolvers lie strapped on either hip, the left hanging lower than the right. The revolvers are kept carefully oiled and cleaned. The handles are hand-made. Ornately engraved, the letters 'WT' rest along the butt of each pistol. A safety strap is usually kept snapped over the hammer of each revolver.

Damien

Damien D'aray is a tall, well-favored man. Intense black eyes stare out of a handsome face framed by shoulder-length curly black hair and a neatly trimmed beard and moustache. His movements are slow and lackadaisical, filled with a natural grace, and when he speaks his voice is rich with the cultured accent of Southern gentility.

He is bundled up warmly in a grey cavalry greatcoat, a white scarf wrapped around his neck, grey wool pants tucked into well-polished black stovepipe boots, black leather gloves protect his hands, and a black cavalry hat sits atop his head shading his eyes.

Samantha

A medium-tall woman in her early thirties with wavy auburn hair that is loose about her shoulders. She has long legs and a certain way of walking that suggests a flirtatious, pleasant, personality. Her perfect posture and careful way of speaking gives her away as a wealthy, educated Easterner. She wears elegantly cut clothing, long skirt with fine boots beneath. She looks about 6 months pregnant.

Herod

A man built of a tall, lean frame, Herod Mercer appears to perfectly fit the image one might draw of a young working man. His form somewhat sturdy from years spent on horseback, Herod shows all the signs of an active life with few excesses. Green eyes show a subtle intensity, cast behind tanned skin and sun bleached hair reduced to a light brown tone from one that was likely darker to start with. His hands are well calloused, knuckles speckled with cuts and scratches borne of his occupation. Seldom is he seen without a light coating of dust on his worn work clothes, the colors of his conservatively patterned shirt subdued and quieted. At his side is a basic revolver, its design one of little art and pure function. On his head rests a well-made black Stetson, an adornment well matched by the moderate Texas accent that infiltrates his words when he speaks.

Benjamin

Benjamin Culver, or simply "Ben", is an average-looking young man of medium height and slender build. His brown eyes are bright and intelligent, and his dark brown hair reaches to just above his collar. When he speaks, his accent reveals that he came from Kentucky.

He wears sturdy work clothes, a red flannel shirt and heavy brown pants. On his feet are leather boots, in good condition, but dusty. Circling his waist is a leather holster, with a revolver snug against his right hip.

Wilona

The woman before you is petite, at just under 5'3". Her features are small, narrow hazel green eyes beneath thin brows, small pouting lips and prominent cheekbones. Her complexion is smooth, the soft beige skin just beginning to show the 41 years she has seen. Tiny wrinkles surround her eyes, becoming more apparent when she flashes her friendly smile, which is often. In spite of her fragile appearance, her voice has a strong steady inflection, a deep husky timbre which she never permits to be heard raised in anger. She is dressed, appropriately, in black, though the shortness of the gown does detract from it's conservative color. The black velvet material billows about at her waist, before draping down over an abundance of petticoats. The bodice hugs against her sides, the opaque black sheen of velvet melding into a transparent black lace that covers her shoulders and upper chest before stopping at a high collar that encircles her small neck. Her hair is pinned rather tightly up, the auburn curls defying the matronly style by slipping free from their restraints along the nape of her neck. The constant movement of her hands draw your attention to a small silver banded ring that is on her hand. It's carved into a weaved pattern and surrounds green jade stones.

Eugenia

Though no great beauty, this woman is pretty enough for a homesteader's widow. She has a toned, sturdy body with long limbs and ripe, feminine curves. Thick, light brown hair with blonde highlights is pulled back to trace her spine in a simple plait. Sometimes, it is secured at the nape of her neck in a braided bun. Quiet, green eyes watch the world from beneath delicately arched eyebrows. Her mouth is full and petulant, giving her a somewhat pouty look whether or not she's feeling that way. Her hands are square and somewhat large for a woman, flesh marked with calluses and scars from her life of hard work.

Form and function take the place of fashion for this woman. She sports a somewhat battered Stetson atop her tresses, dust and flecks of soil marring its deep brown surface. Beneath a heavy, grey wool coat that obviously used to serve as part of a Confederate uniform, is a heavy cotton workshirt. Once, it was white, but repeated wear and washings have turned it more of a beige hue. Holding the shirt snugly to her torso is a brown leather vest that is creased with age. A pair of stiff work pants made for a man awkwardly fit her lower curves and limbs. A thick gunbelt wraps her waist, but holds no holster. Worn, brown leather boots protect her feet.

Delaware

A tall man, lean but not underweight. Jason Delaware Clysdon has black hair that is cut short and parted in the middle to match the fashion of the time. The thick wavy locks defy style and often fall free from the careful grooming to rest against his forehead and sideburns freely. He appears to be in his early thirties and his dark skin clean shaven except for the neat moustache that extends down around his mouth. Like his coloring, his eyes are dark; Blue in color and edged with faint wrinkles that are the only distinguishing mark of his age. He is dressed in a pair of Levi jeans which must have recently jumped off the shelf - for they are crisply ironed and meticulously clean. A white cotton shirt, weaved from a mixture of silk and cotton to remove the harsh abrasion of lesser woven grades. His boots are tall, covering his calf with soft polished black leather that has not been adequately oiled to last long against the harsh Montana snow. He is wearing a bowler hat, fashioned from new black felt and a black chesterfield overcoat, the velvet collar a deep hunter green color.

O'Dwyer

He is a man of medium height, burly without being grotesque. His brownish red hair is long, and combed back from his head to about a scraggly shoulder length. He has a full beard, not so scraggly as his hair, and short enough so a person can see more red in it then his hair. He walks slowly, with a slight limp when he moves his left leg, and there is something odd about his posture, as if his right shoulder was higher then his left. His moss green eyes are full of cover, but they do not twinkle. He's missing the pinky on his left hand.

He is currently wearing a white linen shirt, tied with drawstrings at the neck and sleeves. He's wearing a brown woolen vest, with brown woolen buttons and a matching jacket. He has dark blue pants that have worn at the knees, which is just above a pair of black leather shoes, again, which have seen better days.

He's currently wearing a slanted kepi, dark blue with a black bill, and a cornet curled on top. The headgear of the Army of the Potomac, for those who would know.

 
[And now, the meeting...]

Wilona is seated in the back of the room, as the people start to enter she stands, eyes immediately going towards Tucker as she spies him. An expression of relief seems to pass her face.

Garrett and Tucker arrive together, laughing softly about something. Garrett stops abruptly as he spies Wilona heading towards them.

Agnes enters the church from the doors to the west.

Agnes has arrived.

Damien pauses inside the door, looking around with an expression that suggest he may expect to be struck dead by a heavenly bolt at any moment. Then he seems to relax and, removing his hat, he moves forward to find a seat towards the front of the church.

Framingham enters the church from the doors to the west.

Framingham has arrived.

In contrast to Wilona, Samantha is sitting near the front of the church in her usual pew. She's very pregnant.

William Tucker walks in with Michael Garrett, conversing quietly with the man. He looks quite pleased and laughs frequently. He spots Wilona and doesn't miss a heartbeat as he grabs Michael's arm and takes him over to Wilona's side, "Evenin' Wilona, glad ta see ya made it."

Benjamin was standing near the door, talking to some of the other ranchhands, when he sees Tucker enter. Looking almost as relieved as Wilona, he exclaims loudly, "Will! You're back!"

Agnes drifts in quietly, shivering under her coat.

Ryan steps in behind Damien, pulling the door shut only to have it opening by the next man entering behind him. The tall man takes a few steps in before moving to one side, removing his hat, and looking about. Same Maddock, yep. At least, the unburnt parts.

William turns with a start, "Benji Culver? Why you ol' dog, you still hangin around this town?" He laughs happily and goes over to greet his old friend.

Not having noticed Samantha yet, Wilona wanders towards Garrett and Tucker, a little disappointed as Tucker turns and strolls away. She turns and glances at the man he entered with and stares a little shocked, "Michael?"

Miss Gem enters the church from the doors to the west.

Miss Gem has arrived.

Garrett's smile gets broader and he shakes his head slightly in disbelief. "Wilona..." And then he just laughs, a quiet joyful laugh. "As I live and breathe, I never thought I'd see you here."

Considering it is his first town meeting, Herod looks fairly calm amidst the growing crowd. He stands a meter or so from Benjamin, one of the few people he knows at all in this place. A polite tip if his head is applied when necessary, whether in greeting or respect. For now he seems happy to be a sort of statue, quiet and observing of all those in the room.

Evan enters the church from the doors to the west.

Evan has arrived.

Madeline enters the church from the doors to the west.

Madeline has arrived.

Miss Gem enters the church in the unlikely company of the Mayor, his wife and child, and, heaven forfend, the Good Judge Himself. And doesn't she just look pleased with herself, too?

Samantha in fact stands up, hand to the small of her back. She edges her way to the back, having to turn to the side to make it. Still, Samantha is as healthy, and as good at breeding, as any of her horses. Her face glows. She's making her way toward Wilona.

Benjamin gives Tucker a hug/backslap sort of greeting. With a grin, he answers "Sure am. I'm foreman over at the Brandt's horse ranch. 'Lizabeth and I got four little'uns now, too."

Wilona is near Garrett, still a little surprised to be standing before him. Convention be damned, the woman leans forward and moves to embrace him. "My lord! I surely didn't expect to see you! After just recently running into Allard I find that its like a strange dream."

Ryan moves past the knot of people exchanging greetings, his hat in his hand. There's a few he recognizes, for certain, but they're tied up in their own greetings. Edges of a smile on the man's mouth - that these people are alive and apparently well. It's the pregnant woman making her solitary way from the front that catches Ryan's eye, though, and he hustles towards her to offer a solicitious arm, "Missus Brandt. Now this is a surprise... c'n I give you a hand?"

Framingham enters the church just after the mayor's family. He takes off his stovepipe hat and observes those present with a quiet, serious expression.

Damien sits in a pew, head slightly bowed, not talking to anyone, just fidgeting with the hat he holds in his hands.

William clasps Benjamin's shoulder, "Ya don't say.. four children? Whell ahrl be... yer keepin' busier then I thought." William laughs pleasantly and nods his head a couple times, giving his friend the look over. "Yer lookin' good Benji, I was a might worried after ya with this fire and all. But then I heard you were still workin out on the range and figured ya were probably okay."

Agnes stands off to the side observing the others with a shy demeanor. She does pause to shake out her coat, as if there was snow, or something, on her shoulders.

Evan leans over a little toward Madeline. "Um, I should go have a quick word with the marshal before I get started..." And I suppose I end up at the front of the room anyway...

At the mention of Allard's name, Garrett's smile fades, but not for long. He hugs Wilona close for a moment. "A strange, but very familiar dream indeed. I don't think I could have asked for more, coming back here. You and Tucker both in the same room." He laughs again. "But we'll have more time for this later, won't we?"

"Don't worry," Gem says to Evan, brightly, "I'll keep her company." Are you sure you want to leave Madeline alone with Gem, Evan?

Samantha smiles at Ryan, a generous smile. "Well, how do." She'll just put her hand on Ryan's elbow, "Indeed, I was just going to speak to Wilona there. I wouldn't mind a hand as navigating is starting to become difficult. I'm glad to see you."

Benjamin nods to Tucker, looking a little more serious, "I reckon it's a good thing we live so far out from town." Then he smiles again, "I reckon Miss Wilona wants your time more'n I do. Stop by the house some time, OK?"

Madeline is, indeed, in the company of the good judge, and the mayor, of course. With Joshua hanging onto her hand, and looking about wih bright, excited eyes. And, last but certainly not least, Miss Gem Trotters. The world is surely coming to an end. She opens her mouth to answer, is pre-empted by Gem, and smiles nonetheless. "Go ahead," she tells Evan. "We'll be fine here."

William nods his head in agreement, "Yep, Ahrl be sure ta do that. Ahrm at the boardin' house fer now, though I hope ta find somethin' a little less noisy befer too much longer." He winks and Benjamin and makes his way through the now-crowded room, towards Wilona."

Wilona flushes slightly, seems everyone keeps alluding to her and Tucker, as if they might have once been joined at the hip or something. Her flush increases now, a full un-Wilona like blush as she squeezes Garrett's hand and speaks above the din of the filling room. "Yes, well, it really is quite heartening to see the turnout of people interested in keeping the town alive." Nevermind that Wilona left. She's here now, isn't she?

Evan nods to Madeline with a smile and gives her a little squeeze on the shoulder. Leave Gem and Madeline alone together? In a church? No telling what kind of Girl Talk would happen. Evan and his mustache sidle away, to go have a few quiet words with the marshal.

"I noticed, ma'am" Ryan returns, even as he guides Samantha towards the knot of people that contains Wilona. Not that Samantha couldn't have done just fine herself, but Ryan still isn't above using his free elbow to move a laggard out of a pregnant woman's way. "Here y'are, I wouldn't want t'keep you," Nath says as they approach Wilona, "But it's right good to see you, ma'am."

Garrett smiles a bit, apparently amused by Wilona's blush. "Sometimes all it takes is a little time away and then a good disaster to get people back where they should be, right?" He gives Wilona a wink and a broad smile before taking a step back and letting Tucker take his place facing Wilona.

Agnes slips out of her coat, then takes off her hat, too. She folds it, with knit glvoes, into the inner part of her coat and sits down in the back most pew, back straight, hair pulled so tightly into the braids maybe it hurts.

Benjamin nudges Herod's arm with his elbow, and with his chin motions towards the crowd of people including Samantha. His quiet words are lost in the overall background noise.

William Tucker wouldn't know the mayor from a hole in the ground, but its hard to miss the throng of people looking to the mayor with desperate eyes and begging glances. The people in this town have been struck hard and his presence seems to be a beacon to all of them. William stops short on his way back to where Wilona and Garrett converse, looking at Evan.

Garrett was already clearing out from the throng around Wilona, so he takes a few steps towards judge Framigham.

Wilona turns, glancing past the approaching people in the crowd to cast a brilliant smile at Tucker. Yeah, she still has a thing and it shows. Her eyes focus locally and she blinks at Samantha, having not seen her for a few months. "Good Lord! Mrs Brandt." Her eyes drop immediately to the woman's figure.

Evan has at least gotten out of his gloves by this point, and offers a hand to the man with the badge. "Marshal Tucker? Evan Randolph... sorry I missed you yesterday."

Samantha was never bashful. Her reply to Ryan is just a smile, dancing warmth from deep within her eyes. Faint lines have begun to show there, another around her mouth. "Thank you. I hope you stop by the house. I'm sure Greg would like to see you too. And the children." He accent is still decidedly eastern all these years, and her extroverted personality shows when she says, "Wilona Jenkins. I'm so glad to see you." She won't mention Wilona's son.

Framingham continues to survey the crowd for a few moments longer, then notices Tucker, Garrett and Wilona near the back of the room. He makes his way through the crowd to approach them. "Good evening, Will!" he says, reaching the marshall first. "It is good to see you again, though I wish the circumstances were otherwise."

Benjamin mutters to Herod, "... pregnant... over... is Mrs. Samantha Brandt,... in... met her yet."

Madeline suggests to Gem, "Perhaps we should find a seat, before they're all taken up."

Miss Gem flashes a quick smile. "I'm sure any of these gentlemen would be glad to offer a lap." Pause. "I mean a seat." Right. But she will sit down with Madeline, looking over the room curiously.

William Tucker eyes The Mayor carefully, sizing the man up. Jury is still out, thinks William as he reaches to shake the man's hand. "Evenin' Mayor, that's alright, I bet yer a busy man these days. Ahrm mighty sorry ta hear what's happened to this town and let me offer ta help out in any way I ken."

Ryan nods agreeably. "I'll be sure t'stop by," he says, then steps back as Samantha begins to speak with Wilona. There's a somewhat lighter expression on his face as he turns away, and glances about the room.

O'Dwyer enters the sanctuary from the door behind the pulpit.

O'Dwyer has arrived.

Herod's green eyes follow those of Benjamin, glancing from person to person in the crowded room. The dark haired ranch hand shifts his hat in his hand, nodding to the foremen quietly. His response is fairly mute compared to the noise of talking in the room.

Herod mutters to Benjamin, "... sir.... although... only a... of the... is, I... anyone... this room.... own... I..."

Miss Gem settles down on a pew, leaning over towards Madeline. She mutters to Madeline, "... earth is that... and... speaking..."

O'Dwyer enters the back of the church room, finding a seat in the back.

Agnes folds her hands in front of her, eyes downcast.

O'Dwyer removes his cap, and sets it on his knee. He's cleaned up slightly since he's come into town a day or two ago.

Wilona smiles fondly at Samantha, a cool smile not entirely unfriendly then glances past the gathered crowd to look over the gathered townsfolk. Her eyes pause at a yong woman in the pews, she murmurs towards Samantha, "Who is that?" She points out Agnes.

William smiles broadly at The Judge, obviously pleased to see the man. He had a close working relationship with him for many years and considers him probably the best judge he ever worked for. He brushes his fingers against the brim of his hat in greeting, "Evenin' Judge. Ahrm mighty happy ta see you as well. I heard ya were back East visitin the family and all. How's Martha?" His eyes return briefly to The Mayor expectantly.

Garrett, seeing that Framingham is busy, decides to make his way up towards the front of the church and wait for the meeting to start. He passes a few people he recognizes, shaking hands and exchanging greetings along the way.

Evan's handshake is firm but not harsh, and he nods and smiles at Tucker. He mutters to Tucker, "I was... about... on a... we're dangerously short... lawmen.... later, but... sure the... a... being... not... best..."

Madeline settles on the pew beside Gem, and it's Conspiracy all over again. Dark hair and light hair, two heads bent together while they speak quietly with one another. Madeline lifts her head a moment to glance around the room, and her gaze settles on Garrett for a moment before a smile lights her features and she goes back to her murmured conversation. She mutters to Miss Gem, "... just... to town.... was... time...." Yep. With a capital Tee Are.

Samantha's hand stays pressed to the small of her back, she glances over her shoulder where Wilona points, though, she murmurs something to her. It's clear the weight of the baby is a bit wearing, though, Samantha is still tired despite the usual brightness of her eyes.

Miss Gem lifts her head to blatantly examine Michael Garrett, and then perhaps a *fraction* too loudly, says to Madeline, "I don't suppose he's rich, too?"

Benjamin nods to Herod, "We c'n talk to her after the meeting. I reckon we ought to go sit down, now."

William nods several times at Evan, "Of course Mayor, like I said, Ahrm here ta help. Course Ahrl have ta speak to the Judge about it..." Being as William works for him, technically speaking and all. He smiles at Evan and gives the man a reassuring nod, "Ahrl stop by and we ken speak more later."

Damien stops fidgeting with his hat long enough to turn in his pew and look around at the other folks in the church. He pauses a moment to note the presence of Miss Gem, sitting with the Mayor's wife at that, then turns back around and goes to fidgeting with his hat again.

Samantha says, "She's the new school teacher." And glances over her shoulder again toward the shy girl in the pews.

Madeline can't help but laugh a little, and to shake her head, though her comment's too quiet by far to be overheard. There's no telling what that shake of her head might mean. Beside her, on the pew, Joshua has managed to get up on his feet and twisted around to face the back of the church, so he can watch the people still jostling for seats.

Framingham returns Tucker's greeting with a smile. "Martha is well. She stayed in New England to help our daughter. The Good Lord just graced us with a new grandbaby, so Martha is helping around the house. I was going to stay there longer myself, but once I received the telegram about the fire..." He sighs and shakes his head.

Ryan's appraisal of the room stops upon sighting Ben Culver and the ranch hand that Ben's speaking with. A bit of thought about going over to greet them, but a few people to seem to be heading for seats. Ryan does likewise, resolving to find Culver at a later time, and takes a seat in the pews, somewhere in the muddled middle of the church. Perhaps, if the meeting gets started, there'll be some of that food he heard tell of afterwards.

Evan nods to Tucker some more. "I certainly don't want to interfere with more serious Official Business." I hadn't mentioned it to the judge yet...

Miss Gem continues to examine Garrett, leaning over to reply to Madeline after a moment. She mutters to Madeline, "... sure... make..."

Wilona nods, looking the woman over a little more carefully. "Well, I don't suppose she will be interested in meeting me." But the mention of schooling does have her asking, "How is Travis? I don't think he knows I'm back."

Benjamin finds a seat about where he normally sits for Sunday church services, but instead of his family, it's the ranch-hands that fill out the pew.

William shakes his head reassuringly, "Ahrm sure it won't be a problem. Ahrv done the job befer and all." William grins rather wolfishly, his eyes still sizing up the Mayor. He is still somewhat suspicious of the man: This town hasn't exactly had the most honest elected officials in the past. But he is more than willing to give the man the benefit of the doubt, especially on Garrett's word. "Course, we are gonna be needin a place fer the Judge to conduct his business now that the courthouse has burned down." William holds up his hand, "Ahrm sorry." He nods his head apologetically, "We can speak about it later iffin ya would rather."

Garrett eventually makes his way past most of the crowd to the front of the church where he takes a seat.

A nod is granted to Benjamin, the ranch hand motioning for the other man to lead the way. It isn't like Herod knows who he is supposed to sit behind and who is taboo in this town. He follows the foreman, sitting down next to him amidst the other Brandt Ranch hands.

Evan might just be the only honest elected official this town has ever had. But it looks like all the records are gone, no nobody can tell anymore. He gives Tucker another nod and starts to make his way toward the front of the room. Socializing is wonderful and all, but he's already making a late start...

When asked 'how is Travis', Samantha says, "Excuse me, Wilona. I'd like to speak to you more later. I think Miss Fairfax..Ahh no, Maxworthy, would be pleased to meet you. But I have to go get a seat. You know how it is, at this stage?" Her hand smooths over her stomach. Or maybe she just doesn't want to discuss Travis. Who would?

Framingham waves his hand quickly and shakes his head. "Will, if the Mayor and you have business to discuss, please do not let me interfere. I should speak with some of the others, in any case. Have you seen Benjamin Culver?"

Eugenia enters the church from the doors to the west.

Eugenia has arrived.

O'Dwyer sits quietly in the back of the church.

Madeline doesn't blush. Doesn't laugh. She just smiles. Widely. And murmurs, "I guess we'll just have to see, won't we? Joshua, turn around and sit."

Agnes fidgets in her seat, moving her coat to her lap as someone sits near. Her smile is shy.

Miss Gem flashes one of her patented ten dollar smiles at Madeline, then goes back to perusing the room, this time pointing out Tucker and leaning towards Madeline. "And he is...?" Discreet question, of course. About as discreet as an elephant in the refrigerator.

Wilona opens her mouth to speak then just nods, "Well then ok, yes, you should go sit. I suppose the meeting is going to start soon, the food table is starting to look a little bare."

"'scuse me, " Ryan mutters as Agnes fidgets. Seems he's taken a seat next to the... schoolteacher? Didn't someone say something like that? "Didn't mean t'crowd you, miss."

Eugenia hesitantly steps into the church, sweeping off her Stetson. First glance, might make her appear to be male, but then the mostly hidden curves become a little more apparent. Last of all, her face is far too pretty to be a man even with its angles. The recent widow's gaze falls upon the cross at the altar and a twinge of guilt crosses her features.

William clasps The Judge's shoulder, "Ahrm sorry about that Judge, ya should nevva consider yerself inturruptin at all. We should speak when we get a chance anyway. Get caught up and all. I need ta secure you a new courthouse, what with the old one burnt down and all." William cracks a grin, "Ahh shoot, its just crazy here tonight and we will have time ta speak later. I saw Benji just a moment ago, near the doorway." William looks around to see if he can point Benjamin out for the judge.

With another fleeting smile to Wilona, almost a bit pitying, Samantha goes back to her seat, making a slow and stately progression toward her usual place in the front.

Eugenia takes a seat at the very back, lowering her gaze to her clothing with faint embarassment.

Agnes smiles at Ryan, a shy little smile through sooty dark lashes. "Oh, it is no problem at all, Mister.. Mister.. I don't think we've met." Agnes isn't a recent widow, but her fiance is dead from the fire. Does that count?

With much the same skill used to calm a skittish horse, Benji leans a little closer to Herod and points out who some of the other people are. Especially the official-looking people.

Garrett turns to watch the crowd, a smile on his face. He seems remarkably happy to watch the various conversations around him.

Evan gets up to the front of the room and peels himself out of his coat. No, not getting behind the pulpit. I don't have that kind of rank. He digs in his coat pockets and brings out some folded papers and a gavel. Yes, a gavel.

Framingham gives his old friend a full smile. "It is good to see you again, Will. I discovered the most extraordinary thing when I was back East these past few months. I discovered that I actually missed Maddock. I find that I enjoy the quiet, clean skies of Montana Territory far more than the coal-filled cities of New England. And the people here are more friendly. But it looks at if the Mayor is about to start, so I should take a seat. We can speak again later." He moves off in the direction of one of the pews to find an empty spot.

He is? Oh. Madeline doesn't smile as warmly for this identification, though she does still smile. "That's Marshal Tucker," she informs Gem. "William Tucker." But then there's Wilona. Don't bother with him. Tucker's a lost cause.

Samantha looks up, and over, and seeing Tucker she smiles generously.

"Nath. I'm Ryan Nath, Miss. I don't think we've met," he says, shaking his head slightly, "Then again, I've been gone from town up on a year or so. Fair number of folks I don't know anymore." Evan's movement towards the front catches Ryan's eye, and he turns to watch the new Mayor...

Miss Gem nods thoughtfully, and examines the rest of the men in the room, and then, less generously, the women.

Wilona sidles her way towards Tucker now as some move to take seats. Seems she plans to sit somewhere near him. She glances his way as the crowd thins, but her smile is a little guarded. In fact, it appears she might even be conveying a touch of her temper should the man glance her way.

William finds himself alone for the moment. He takes a deep breath and takes off his hat. He wipes his brow with a forearm and puts his hat back on. The hair rises on the back of his neck as he catches Samantha's look. He nods over to her, putting his hat back on and giving her a smile.

Agnes at least has a few moments to introduce herself. "Agnes Maxworthy. The new schoolteacher. I mean, once we get a school." She quiets as she sees Evan.

Evan puts his hat and coat aside somewhere and watches over the room for a moment, gavel in hand. Let's see... Item A, Item B, Item C, Item D... yeah, that should be about it.

Herod nods to Benji, green eyes glancing off of everyone the other man points out. He mutters to Benjamin, "... we have... deal..." The ranch hand seems pretty interested in what the other man has to say, although he somehow retains a diffuse look on his features.

Damien removes his scarf and gloves, stuffing them into his hat as he waits for things to get started.

William Tucker almost jumps as Wilona creeps up next to him. He leans over to her and mentions, "I k'ent believe all the people Ahrv run into, lets take a seat here and listen ta the Mayor. Real glad ya made it Wilona." He smiles at her pleasantly. He shoos a couple townsfolk to scoot down as he becons Wilona to have a seat.

Wilona certainly can't make a scene with all these people and bring up the last time she saw him. But, she is here, she did come, and she might as well make a point to listen to the Mayor. She sashays over and slides into a pew, leaving just enough room at the end that Tucker might have to sit on her lap or really /really/ close.

Eugenia keeps silent at her place in the back. Not many people know her. It's Charles they knew. He's the one that would come into town for supplies. Genie just stayed put at the homestead. Now, however, with Charles gone, she's here to take a more active role in the town. The young widow glances down to her snow-damp boots as she waits for the mayor's gavel to bang.

Evan decides he'd better get this thing moving.... *rap* *rap* *rap* goes the gavel on the altar, since it's the closest thing to a desk up here. "Ladies and gentlemen..."

Miss Gem grins suddenly. Ladies, huh?

Just as Evan's gavel raps on the pulpet Samantha stands up. It isn't abrupt, but it is not indicative of her plan to stay. She makes her stately progress (not a waddle, not a waddle at all) toward the side door and out.

Tucker considers sitting down in Wilona's lap, but settles for sitting really close.

Samantha strides off towards the roadway.

Samantha has left.

Benjamin turns at the sound of the door, just in time to catch sight of Samantha leaving. He looks like the might try to follow, then realizes that if she's OK, he doesn't need to, and if she isn't OK, she'd be better off with another woman than with him. Having made up his mind, he turns back around to listen to Evan.

Evan may even look a little surprised that the room comes to order so quickly. "First off, I'd like to thank everyone for coming to the meeting this evening. I know we've had a hard time lately, and I'm here to let you know about some progress... and to help work out where we go next." Yeah, that's pretty generic...

Agnes might look like she's quiet as a mouse, but she speaks up anyway, "We need to rebuild the schoolhouse right away."

Delaware enters the church from the doors to the west.

Delaware has arrived.

Agnes, having said that, blushes fiercely.

Wilona lifts her head as the until now quiet woman speaks up. She murmurs towards Tucker, and informs in a hushed tone. "Samantha told me she is the School Teacher."

Madeline twists around in her seat, and glances back at the new schoolteacher. Well then. At least one person's enthusiastic.

Miss Gem turns to look at the schoolteacher, as well, smiles, and turns back to smile even more broadly -- one might even say inspidly -- at Mayor Evan Randolph.

Eugenia absently brushes at the soil on her husband's Stetson as she turns it in her hands.

William looks over to Agnes, the schoolmarm. She sure is a pistol, even if she may be one bullet shy of a full cylinder. He nods over to Wilona and whispers, "Met her over at the stagecoach office. She said her husband passed away in the fire." He nods sadly as he shares this tidbit of gossip.

Evan nods and smiles toward Agnes. "Yes, that's on my agenda.... But I'm sure the people would like to hear about a little tax relief first." That's right, I said tax relief. "Considering Maddock's situation right now, all land taxes and business fees are suspended. Rebuilding will be expensive enough for everyone without taxes making the burden any worse." And yes, the town has a few bucks in the treasury.

Delaware slips into the back of the church, brushing snowflakes from his overcoat before the water can pool and place him in a spotty situation. He looks absently over the room and murmurs a vivid curse that only those in the back might overhear.

O'Dwyer stands up in the back. "Now, excuse me, please?"

Miss Gem's eyes light up, yea veritably, and she glances at Maddie. Did you know about this tax relief thing?

Agnes, who is in the back, turns to look at Delaware. Something else distracts, a smile, perhaps Ryan.

Damien hmms to himself, his expression thoughtful as he considers the mayor's announcement.

One of the miners in the front pew spits on the church's wooden floor then raises his hand, not waiting to be called on before he calls, "Isn' tha inludn' minin' permits?"

Madeline didn't know. Her eyebrows lift. My. Evan's been busier than she suspected. Here she was, thinking she knew all there was to know. She glances away from the mayor and at her pew-mate, then smiles. She can't help it. Dum da dee, don't mind her. Josh, by the way, is sitting down now. What a good boy.

Herod's eyes drift towards Agnes, interest seeping into his expression. He looks towards he for a moment, perhaps studying her a bit too much before returning his attention to Evan and the aforementioned tax cut.

Evan's brows raise toward O'Dwyer. "Yes, sir?"

Eugenia glances up and back at the curse, since she is sitting on the back pew. Her green eyes narrow a bit at Delaware.

William wants to hear when the Mayor plans to rebuild the sheriff's office, jail, and courthouse. Those, without question, are of top priority. This tax relief isn't going to do any good if everyone is dead from murderers and thieves...

When he speaks, it's apparent he's Irish. The louder he talks, the more his accent becomes apparent. "I would be wonderin', if there's going to be a land office, or will you be handlin' the redistribution of unowned land?" O'Dwyer, wrings his hat a bit as he talks.

Damien turns in his seat to look the speaker over carefully, apparently finding that a most interesting question.

Agnes folds her hands in her lap, posture straight.

"It's a fair question," Ryan adds almost laconically, "Not just th'homesteads, but the businesses in town." There's enough folk that might remember Nath from his days of running the Stables, and Ryan's made no secret that he's interested in rebuilding what's burned out.

Sensing the gaze, Delaware glances towards the man, no... wait, it might be a woman, in the back pew. He raises a brow to inquire at the sudden attention she expresses. Then looks behind him, assuming she might be looking someplace beyond him. The moment is, however quickly discarded as the Irish accent breaks the silence, and he speaks aloud. "I don't recall seeing very many unowned plots on the records." Why he would know that, a stranger, he doesn't impart.

Benjamin snorts and mutters to the other ranch hands, "Unowned land? What Quintan doesn't own, the bank does."

Miss Gem settles back in her pew seat, tapping a finger against her lips very thoughtfully, and periodically smiling and ruffling Josh's hair. She turns to examine the Irishman after he's asked his question, then turns her attention to Evan with interest.

Herod chuckles in an -extremely- dry manner for a very short amount of time. The foremen's sentiment is clearly reflected by the other man at his side. Even the short time in town has taught Herod those truths.

Evan nods at O'Dwyer's question. "Unowned land, or properties where the owner has passed on without a will, would be a matter for the court... and perhaps for the bank." Mortgages and so forth, you know. "I'm sure I'll have some discussion with the judge about how that should best be handled."

Eugenia speaks to Delaware and her voice, it turns out, is actually a gentle contralto. Her words are quiet and pitched so only those in the back can hear. It is obvious they are directed to Delaware. "Please mind your tongue, sir," says her Georgia accent. "This -is- a church."

O'Dwyer is still grasping his kepi. "I see now. So, even if the land here is unsettled, it's still owned?"

Ee! Hair ruffling! Josh grins big, then tilts over to lean against Madeline. If he sits up again, will he get his hair ruffled again? That'll be a fun game, and Madeline won't intervene until his laughter borders on distracting.

Miss Gem leans towards Madeline. She mutters to Madeline, "I... the... is... favorably... you, would I?" A delicate pause. "Not that I've met many men who are in a hurry to turn me down."

Evan shrugs slightly at O'Dwyer's follow-up. "Some is, yes. There are records at the bank, but I'm afraid I'm not an expert on the law. I can discuss it with the judge and get back to you... at a later time?"

Well lo and behold, she speaks and she most definitely a woman. Delaware's amused surprise has him appraising the woman once again, wondering what else is femininely hidden beneath the exterior. He removes his hat, now reminded where he is and lifts his attention to the Mayor again, offering only an incline of his head towards the one who corrected him.

O'Dwyer says, "I've got rams and ewes coming from the East. Gotta have pasture land before the spring thaw, or they'll be no ruttin'." He hesitates. "So, needs to be done soon, aye."

Evan takes a moment to nod to the miner in the front row. "Permit fees paid to the town, yes." But that's not an invitation to claim-jump.

Damien purses his lips as he turns back around and settles into his seat again. Well, this will be an interesting development.

O'Dwyer nods, and sits, back to being his quiet self.

A loud ruckus of celebration roars up from the section of miners, they start considering how they can spend this extra money and one offers loudly, "We need ta rebuild the saloon first!"

"Give us a chance t'rebuild the town before you boys go tearing it up," Ryan offers the jubilant miners.

Evan nods again to O'Dwyer. "I expect I'll be spending quite a while with the judge very soon, on this and other matters." Now, where was I...? "In other matters, I've asked Marshal William Tucker to stay on in Maddock for a while. Some of you will remember Marshal Tucker..." And now that's a vote for rebuilding the saloon first. *rap* *rap* goes the gavel. "Gentlemen, please, we'll discuss what to rebuild first... a little later..."

Madeline shakes her head and answers as quietly as she can. She mutters to Miss Gem, "... don't... reason... be... with me.... the two... us.." She leaves the rest unsaid.

Wilona perks up, murmuring softly towards Tucker. She mutters to Tucker, "... Mayor... rush to build jails... if there's... hint... are needed to build a saloon... taking bets... will... saloon that's standing first. "

Damien looks back and makes a mental note to have a word with the miners at the end of the meeting.

Eugenia turns her attention back to the mayor, letting her Stetson dangle from one hand. The woman's expression is tired, but mostly enigmatic.

Tucker looks over to Wilona. He rests his hand briefly on her knee, nodding to her. His eyes return to the Mayor. He watches the man closely, as a wolf regards his prey, looking for any sign of weakness. It is a time like this that a man's mettle shows.

O'Dwyer snorts at something in the back pew.

Benjamin mutters to Herod, "Maddock'll... with Will... around. I... back... he and... older... were close... with him... out here,... part... I stayed."

Wilona finishes her murmur and looks up, finding that the attention has now been focused on William beside her. She looks down and smiles softly as his hand comes to rest on her knee. Apparently Delaware isn't the only one who has forgotten he's in a church.

Evan tries to go on. "Some of you will remember Marshal Tucker from his earlier years here. So you can expect to see a man with a badge again in Maddock." And I'll have some things to discuss with him, too. "Before we open the rebuilding discussion... Michael Garrett, our representative to the territorial government, would like to say a few words."

Eugenia hooks her hat upon her bent knee and politely applauds.

Herod nods towards Benjamin, but he gives the other man a slightly quizzical look. He mutters to Benjamin, "... Marshal... keep matters in hand, then? I've... towns I... have..." There certainly isn't skepticism in the hand's eyes, his voice low enough to not carry beyond the small group of men.

Wilona applauds loudly, turning to look towards the former Mayor.

Ryan follows along, offering applause for Garrett.

Garrett stands from his pew and takes the few steps up to the podium. With all the officiousness he can muster, he addresses the crowd. "Thank you Mayor Randolph. And thank you, people of Maddock." He pauses for a moment to allow Evan to sit down. "Before I begin, I'd like to ask you all to join me in a moment of silence to remember those whom we have lost in this tragedy." At which point, he bows his head slightly.

O'Dwyer doesn't applaud at all. But he does remain silent.

William takes off his hat and holds it to his chest. He smiles at Michael Garrett, before lowering his eyes for a moment of silence.

Miss Gem studies the group as people lower their heads, leans towards Maddie, then has the decency to actually remain silent for the obligatory few moments.

Eugenia's chin immediately dips and her expression fills with ache for a moment before it is chased away to be replaced with solemnity.

Damien bows his head respectfully.

Wilona looks towards Garrett and drops her head as well, how can she not, having lost someone close to her. But then, didn't everyone? She reaches out and places her hand on top of Tucker's as it rests on her knee.

O'Dwyer doens't bow his head. He didn't know these people.

Garrett raises his head and then continues. "This is a bit of a homecoming for me. As you may know, not only am I the representative from the 40th district of the territory of Montana, but I was once the Mayor of this fair town. So it occupies a very special place in my heart. When I received the telegram from my housekeeper about the fire, I met immediately with the territorial governor. He and I agreed that I should be sent here on a mission to assay the damage, and return to Helena. Now, depending on how things go upon my return, I will hopefully be returning to Maddock with some aid from the government for the purpose of rebuilding the official buildings." He looks purposefully at Agnes here. "And to secure emergency loans if the bank is unable."

Miss Gem, as soon as Garrett starts talking again, leans over to speak quietly to Madeline, and ruffle Josh's hair again.

Benjamin closes his eyes, openning them again when Garrett resumes speaking.

Eugenia lifts a hand to discreetly wipe at the corner of her right eye when Garrett begins again. The young widow doesn't look up until she has reined in her emotions.

Miss Gem mutters to Madeline, "... at a... meeting... course that's exactly what I'm... think... would... our partnership... men... a... to spend their money.... be with..."

Herod lowers his head, mirroring the motion of many in the church's walls. He makes a quick glance around the room as Garrett begins speaking again.

William stands and applauds Michael Garrett's words. This town has indeed suffered a horrible loss. Hopefully the government can offer some support to at least help folks rebuild their lost businesses.

Delaware finds himself tapping his foot impatiently as the proceedings move along slowly. He moves forward to the last row and stands pointedly at its end looking down at the woman seated there. He bends a little at the waist and inquires, "Think there might be room for me in here?"

A young-ish man slips into the church, and scans the room nervously. Spotting Benjamin in the crowd, he hurries over to speak quietly and urgently to him. Ben nods, and the man slips out again.

Garrett says, "So you will be seeing me about town in the next week or so. But don't be surprised when I disappear. I'll soon be back, and I'll probably have some good news. In the meantime, please feel free to come visit me at my home. I'm always happy to hear what's on the mind of my constituency."

Miss Gem's smile becomes positively predatory as she lifts her eyes to examine Garrett, and to consider that offer of his.

Wilona blinks, Tucker is standing, is he leaving? She discards the memories Garrett's words prompted and stands quickly, politely supporting Tucker's enthusiasm with a polite applause.

Benjamin mutters to Herod, "That chestnut... is... foaling.... stay here, but I... on..."

Eugenia lifts her gaze to Delaware in slight startlement. Shaken from her reverie, she nods to the man and eases over as much as she can to make room for him. Her hat is lifted from her knee so she can sit properly.

Benjamin strides off towards the roadway.

Benjamin has left.

Who would have thought those years of training as Maddock's mayor would have made such a politician out of Michael Garrett. Tucker can clearly remember the days playing across a poker table with the man, almost positive the fellow was cheating. He never did catch him cheating, but sure lost enough money to him those many years ago. He looks over at Wilona, smiling at her, before taking his seat again.

Garrett's pointed gaze sweeps the room, landing on a few people: his friends, his associates, and that woman sitting next to Madeline who is positively staring at me. Should I know her? "And with that, I would like to return this meeting to your mayor, Evan Randolph. Thank you."

Herod nods to Benjamin, whispering, "Send word if you need a hand." Once the other man is gone, he looks back towards Garrett.

Oh yes. Oh yes, Mister Michael Garrett, you should *definitely* know Miss Gem Trotters. She flashes Garrett a perfectly dazzling grin in the moment he makes eye contact, and settles back, utterly content with the way the world is moving.

Josh shrieks with laughter, and Madeline leans over to quiet him, then glances up at Garrett again. Considering him, you know? Considering a lot of things, before she answers Gem's words.

Delaware settles into the seat, one leg extending into the aisle to avoid taking too much room. He settles his hat on his lap and looks the woman over again before muttering, something to her, He mutters to Eugenia, "All the politicians here so full of hot air..."

Eugenia quietly responds to the man who has sat himself beside her on the back pew. She cuts a glance toward the front with her green eyes, however, intent on learning everything she can while here.

Madeline mutters to Miss Gem.

Evan rises from his out-of-the-way seat to return to the front of the room. "Thank you, Mr. Garrett. I've got one other matter before we open the floor to discussion. As you know, the bank has been closed since the fire and the loss of Mr. Travers. The banking company has sent a telegram saying they're sending their best man to re-open the Bank of Maddock, and I was hoping he would have arrived by now. But if nothing else, I do want you all to know help is on its way for the bank."

Garrett re-takes his seat, but frowns at Evan's news. A bank's best man? This is not good.

Miss Gem shoots Madeline a startled glance, and then smiles broadly. If she were less dignified -- well, okay, dignity isn't one of Gem's virtues -- if it were the 1990s instead of the 1870s, she'd make a fist and cheer, "Yessss!" But it's not, so she just smiles.

Ryan remembers the previous 'best men'. Allard and Merritt, neither of 'em much good. "Who'd that best man be, Mayor? You have a name, yet?"

William looks behind him towards Mr. Clysdon. He rode the stagecoach in with the fellow, who claimed to be the new banker. He didn't seem like a terribly bad sort. Emphasis on -terribly-.

Delaware leans in to listen to the woman's response, his eyes on Evan as he makes yet another announcement, surely regarding who will be running the laundry to Great Falls since it doesn't appear many folks have had a clean set of clothes in a while. He excuses himself to Eugenia and stands, clearing is voice before speaking aloud. "Well now, I don't know if I'm the best man, but I am here."

Garrett nods to himself. Had to be that one, didn't it?

Evan shakes his head. "No, I'm afraid I don't know his..." name. "Oh... Welcome to Maddock, sir." I think.

Miss Gem turns to examine Delaware more closely, interested now. He's the man behind the money, eh?

Madeline gives Gem another smile, then twists around to look toward the back of the church, like so many others do, and watches him move toward the front. Well well well.

Eugenia arches a golden eyebrow in surprise as the new banker rises. She studies him more warily now. Heck, her gaze is almost downright unfriendly. Bankers and homesteaders do not often get along.

Ryan turns in his pew, careful this time not to bump the schoolmarm, and gives the bank's man a long look from under lowered brows. A short nod before he turns back to the Mayor.

Wilona strains to look at the man in the back of the church as all heads turn in unison to regard him with curiosity. She chuckles softly as one of the miners hollers loudly, "I don't care if'n you are the Lord incarnate, when you going to open the bank back up??"

Garrett smirks quietly. Welcome to the wild west, Mr. Banker.

Damien turns to look at the new banker as he comes forward, muttering a soft apology to those sitting beside him for all his twisting and turning as he does so.

Eugenia lifts her hat and settles it back upon her head, content she's not blocking anyone's view since she's in the back row.

Ryan mutters to Agnes, "Shoulda... like... bank's man,... than..."

Delaware strides the aisle, approaching the altar without an invitation and nods towards Evan. "Thank you, Mayor. I was hoping I might have a word." He pointedly ignores the miners as they attempt to incite a riot about the bank being closed for weeks on end.

Evan was hoping to have a word earlier... but his timing has always been atrocious. He'll manage. He hasn't been shot in a few years, after all...

A sideways glance goes to Delaware, many of the Brandt ranch hands mirroring Herod's look. It is one of pure doubts, that a banker would really come to help the town rebuild and help certain ranchers build their businesses. A few whispers drift between the hand's, a very quiet mutter sounding like "...maybe he won't be biased..." coming from the Texan's lips and ending the murmer.

Wilona regards the new banker with an instant amusement at his attire and leans in towards Tucker. She mutters to Tucker, "... wanna come by... boarding house... so we can..."

Miss Gem, without the slightest shame, leans forward and says, quite clearly, "Mr. Tucker, I'd take that offer, if I were you." And sits back again, grinning.

Damien chuckles softly. For most of the meeting he's had a dour expression but now a slight twinkle reaches his eyes.

William Tucker turns slightly red, looking rather shocked at the scandalous Miss Gem. He feigns to comment however, only nodding at Wilona, "Ahrm... Ahrd be glad ta Wilona."

Eugenia, from the back, glances over those seated further in front of her. She's already forming silent opinions of some of the people she's seeing.

Garrett just smiles. He's seen that little exchange many times in his day. Even without hearing the words. Wilona and Tucker. All is right in the world.

Delaware stands at the altar and looks over the motley crew of townspeople, he clears his voice and offers in a well spoken voice, "I've been sent down here to re-open the bank and evaluate the liens against the land. Hopefully, everyone was well insured." Unlikely that. "And I will be glad to help each family get back on their feet with a little loan money until the insurance money arrives." He waits, expecting applause but gets only a luke warm response.

Eugenia looks toward the floor again. She didn't lose a home, she only lost a husband.

Wilona looks over Miss Gem, and chuckles in a soft knowingly way. She clears her through and offers in a clear voice, "It was an offer to talk, Miss Gem. We /are/ in a church." Not that Miss Gem might know, probably having never been in it before.

O'Dwyer calls out from the back. "You except federal paper, aye?"

Herod, for his part, refrains from clapping. Why start trusting bank men now? Green eyes retain their gaze on Delaware, but silence is held in the proximity of Brandt's latest hand.

Miss Gem has too been in a church before! She went to Miguel's wedding! But she grins cheerfully at Wilona, and gives her an amused 'uh-huh' look.

William Tucker takes off his hat and wipes his hand across his brow. He puts his hat back on. Wilona is still a firebrand, one way or another. Their past relationship stretched almost three years and hit every emotional cord one could imagine. Yes, even that one.

Delaware looks the Irish man over, and laughs loudly, "Yes, you should be able to find a place for your sheep." He clears his voice after that then continues, "Land that is found to be unpaid for, and the owners cannot" ...due to lack of funds, or breath.. "reconcile their account will be put up for silent auction to be held in two weeks."

Delaware adds hastily, "Two weeks after I determine the status of all the liens, so more like a month from now."

Miss Gem purses her lips interestedly. Look, boys. Gem is doing Mouth Poses. Pay attention. Rumour has it her mouth does lots of magnificent things.

Herod glances towards the ceiling, the man seeming to expect some portion of it to break loose and rain down onto certain members of the audience any minute. He slips his stetson onto his head, perhaps hoping it will deflect any potential crumbs resulting from an act of god, should it occur.

O'Dwyer says, "But do you take federal paper? President Grant's bonus was paid in Federal greenbacks."

O'Dwyer says, "However, I can only seem to buy things in gold here."

Garrett nods, silent auction. The banker's friend. Rather the friend of the banker's friends'. Because strangely only the friends of the banker tend to win them. He sighs softly. Well, not much of a chance that he'll have many friends after tonight. Wonder where old Christopher Quintan got to...

Damien snorts, his expression turning sour once more.

Eugenia's shoulders slump a little when Delaware speaks of land, loans and auctions. Somehow, the widow's posture speaks of impending doom rather than triumph.

Maggie enters the church from the doors to the west.

Maggie has arrived.

Evan stands out of the way, listening to the new banker. Some people are definitely not going to like a silent auction hanging over their heads, with their livelihoods gone up in smoke...

One of the miners turns around and hollers back at O'Dwyer, "What kinda problem you got with gold! It don't burn like that paper does!"

Eugenia lifts her chin to fix her gaze upon the banker. Her jaw tightens as she begins to look a bit stubborn.

Garrett glances over at Evan, clearing his throat slightly. Do something. Quickly.

"An' I suppose you'll offer bank loans for that auction," Ryan asks the banker. "Or should people jus' go talk to Quintan and have done with it?"

O'Dwyer looks at the miners. "Aye, you poor excuse for a gamekeeper's gibbit. Be mindin' yer own business."

William Tucker rises so that Wilona can make a graceful exit. His smile is full of warmth and (although he may wish he could keep it different) his gaze upon her is intensely personal and dares to caress her by force of sight alone. Like a wall of white flames, their past rises up between them. Its been seven years since they last parted ways, and when he left town the last time. He thought it was for good this time. Done and over. But the past was not done with him.

Madeline watches the muttering begin in earnest, and smoothes her hand over Joshua's head. Despite the mounting commotion, the boy's begun to doze off, blinking heavy eyelids. Madeline's gaze finds Evan's though, and she quirks an eyebrow upward. Yes, dearheart. Do something.

Damien really must be sure to find out who those miners are when the meeting breaks up. They've more than earned a few rounds on the house tonight.

Delaware eyes the Irishman warily, Did he open the floor to questions yet? He wipes that expression from his face and answers cordially, "I'll have to have the bills authenticated of course, but I'm sure I can offer you a fair value for them." He looks now to Evan and offers, "So. My name is Jason Clysdon, and I will be opening the bank up tomorrow."

Evan catches one or another of the clues being tossed his way. Just in time for Delaware to introduce himself and report that he's opening the bank. "I suppose you'll have a very busy day tomorrow, Mr. Clysdon." He offers a hand to shake. "Again, welcome to Maddock." Where the mayor wears a gun into the church for a town meeting.

O'Dwyer sits back down.

Maggie edges in from the back and pauses, nervously, at the mutters and the mood. Bad. She moves, ever-so-quietly, to the edge of a back pew.

Eugenia looks up at Maggie and smiles a little, sliding over a fraction to offer her more room to sit on the back pew.

She knows what she's doing, she always has. Wilona is a red head and they like to play with fire. She slips out of the pew, deliberately brushing against Tucker even as he makes room for her to exit the bench. "I'll see you then." Soon. Ignoring the banker at the altar, but making a few parting remarks as she excuses herself to those she passes, Wilona makes her way to the exit.

Garrett smiles at Evan. There you go. He winks at Tucker as the Marshal lets Wilona sliiide past him.

Delaware takes the hand easily, shaking it and even striking a pose for all to see. Look, I'm one of y'all, being welcome by the Mayor with a nice steady handshake. The hand is just pumping, the knuckles tightening around Evan's hand. "Thank you, Mayor. I imagine I will be. Which reminds me, that bank was rather empty when I arrived. Do I have any tellers?" He doesn't appear to want to be the first to let go of the shake.

Miss Gem glances at Sleepy little Josh, and smiles. She mutters to Madeline, "... take him home... you... rest... the meeting?... I've... most... need..."

Madeline glances down at the sleeping boy beside her, and gathers him up in preparation to stand. She shakes her head and answers, She mutters to Miss Gem, "... come with... him to... with..."

Miss Gem nods, gathers her skirts, and stands, moving down the pew. As she heads for the back of the church, she sees Maggie, and winks broadly.

William feels a bit flushed still, perhaps he is coming down with a bit of a fever. He gives Wilona a final smile and a wink. He is just going there to talk. Repeat. He is just going there to talk. After all, its been seven long years and its not like they left on the best of terms. Iffin he remembers correctly she had a husband back then, Mr. Reardon. Sure, he became an ex-husband. Uhuh, yet it sure didn't seem to stop them from their own form of 'staying in touch'. Stay strong Will, stay strong! Screw the jail, when are they gonna open the saloon?

Evan is sure we have tellers... they're just not PCs. So he names some names, and perhaps one or another of them has actually come to the meeting. He'll let go of the shake after some appropriate period, since Delaware just keeps pumping along.

Maggie blinks at Miss Gem's wink, and offers an uncertain, but warm enough, smile in return. And a nod, too.

Miss Gem saunters off towards the roadway.

Miss Gem has left.

He didn't just wipe his hand on his jacket? No surely Delaware was just smoothing his coat down, he smiles and nods, "Yes, well they will need to show up for work tomorrow, now shouldn't they." He doesn't know any of the names, except that they appeared on the payroll a few months ago. He settles his head back on his head and strolls back down the aisle, giving the altar back to the mayor.

Evan nods to Delaware. "Yes, they should. Sounds like they'll have busy days, too." At least they can go back to work, and thus get paid. "And lastly... A discussion about which public buildings should be rebuilt first." Discussion, argument, whatever.

Wilona moves down the aisle as well, careful to step out of the way of the striding banker as she does so. Her petticoats over a soft rustle of lace as she moves slowly, careful to give Tucker a long glance at her departing, back(side).

Watching the banker stroll through the church, Eugenia's expression shifts into tired determination. She nods to the man politely enough despite her lurking worries for her future.

Wilona hurries off towards the roadway.

Wilona has left.

Garrett relaxes and waits for this, scanning the room. Readying the explanation that saloons and cat-houses aren't what the government considers "public buildings."

Damien leans back, smiling slightly. Public buildings? That leaves his saloon out then.

Delaware pauses at the last bench, leaning down to offer something in a murmured tone to the woman in men's clothing.

Eugenia returns her attention to the front, lifting a hand.

Evan is again perhaps surprised at the room, and prepares to bring up his own topic before he sees Eugenia's hand in the back pew. "Yes, ma'am?"

Maggie settles back, arms unconsciously folding, absently smiling toward Evan, and then returning to her Worried look.

Eugenia is so startled by the whisper that her hand falters in the air for a moment. She looks curiously at Delaware, but gives him a slow nod of acknowledgement as she rises to her feet. Turning back toward Garrett, the woman clears her throat. "Ah, hello," she says, voice a gentle contralto generously touched with a Georgia accent. "I'm Eugenia Rhodes. Wife of Charles Rhodes." Pausing, she adds, "He died in the fire, God rest his soul." She manages a small smile. "Ah, at any rate, I think it is best to build a jail first off."

Damien glances back at Eugenia and then to Evan. "Mayor, if I may?"

Evan nods at Eugenia's suggestion. That was going to be my very own... Oh, another suggestion? "Mr. D'Aray?"

Delaware stands at the nod, moving towards the door but pausing as the woman stands and speaks. He catalogs the information, it might be useful later then departs with an audible sigh at the rush of cold winter air that sweep through the opened door.

Delaware heads towards the roadway.

Delaware has left.

Damien stands, looking back at Eugenia, hat in hands. His southern accent perhaps a little thicker than normal he says, "My condolences on your loss, ma'am. I know what it's like." He glances down at his hat. "I lost my own wife and son in the burning of Atlanta. It...will get better." His expression suggests otherwise as he turns back to Evan. "Mayor, while I appreciate the need to keep order in these dark times, shouldn't our first priority be working on structures that will aid in the rebuilding effort? It's winter. The workmen are going to need someplace warm to go on occasion so they don't get frostbite. We'll probably want to make the hospital a priority too." He sits back down.

Garrett raises his brows. A hospital? That's pretty ambitious. Hard to justify without a doctor in town. He looks over at Evan to see what the mayor has to say.

Maggie sits up a bit straighter, to blink at Damien. Hospital?

Ryan stands up, "Mister D'Aray's right. Makes no sense to keep th'lawbreakers in shelter when decent folk are living in tents. Weather's been relatively mild for this time of year, but it could turn nasty quick."

Ryan looks back to Eugenia, "No disrespect, ma'am." Then sits back down.

Now that Wilona has gone, William Tucker seems to regain some of his thought processes. He rises to his feet, "Iffin I might have a few words Mayor, I would be mighty appreciative."

Eugenia slowly sinks back down into her seat. She gratefully nods to Damien and Ryan, but seems rather subdued after that initial little speech.

Garrett looks back over his shoulder at Tucker. What are you still doing here?

Evan thinks a hospital is probably a bit much, but the other idea... "Temporary housing, until people are back on their feet," he says with a nod, putting it on his mental list. Ah, the marshal. "Yes, marshal, go right ahead."

William looks around the room. He smiles, although there is little warmth in it. "Ya'll might remember me. I served as lawman in this town back in '68." He pauses for a moment, the tone of his voice is spoken with the swaggering authority of all lawmen. "Bein' as there is no local sheriff, its fallen upon me to take up those local duties. Let me say it quite clearly, that I won't be tolerating any lawbreaking while Ahrm here. Any word reaches me of anyone takin' advantage of this town's situation will be met harshly. Iffin I hear of any robbin or lootin or any other such felonies, rest assured that you'll have me to deal with." The town might remember that he hung more than one man the last time he was here, including the town's own sheriff. His tone becomes more complacent, "Now that bein' said, Ahrm here to help. I expect anyone who has troubles ta come to me and they will be dealt with in a fair manner. Even iffin we don't have a jail, lawbreakers will be dealt with." William nods and clears his throat, "We will be buildin a jail as soon as we are able." He looks over to the Mayor, then takes his seat.

Eugenia finds her attention taken more by the cross in the church than the current discussion. The woman tilts her hat back a bit so she can better study the decor. Again, that twinge of guilt ghosts her face as she looks at the cross.

Evan nods, taking the floor back from the marshal. "I'd agree that a jail is a necessity. The first public obligation is to see to law and order. Seeing to the public welfare is another obligation, and so there's Mr. D'Aray's suggestion for housing, and the suggestion for the schoolhouse. We'll also need some other public space in the future, such as a courthouse for official business." With a nice big fireproof safe for our records. Maybe the temporary housing can become permanent something-else later...

"Mayor, getting the stables back together'd be another thing to put on that list." Nath raises his voice from the middle pews again, "I know I've got an interest in it, but it's hard for travellers to come by Maddock, or even the stage to pass through, without a place for horses to be cared for. And we /need/ the stage to keep comin' through." Even if it does bring us damn bankers.

Maggie nods encouragingly toward Evan, sitting forward now, with her arms on the back of the pew in front of her. Just listening, still.

Evan hmms. "Are you... planning to return to the stables, Mr. Nath? I doubt they're quite 'public,' as far as spending town funds go..." But the need seems pretty plain.

Eugenia's voice quietly lifts from her pew. "They could be." Pausing, she adds, "Public, I mean. The money could go into town funds."

Herod chuckles quietly beneath his breath. Somehow he seems to doubt that's what Nath had in mind. The man glances around, passing a few whispers with the other ranch hands around him.

Many of the miners, not really interested in what public buildings get erected first begin to carry on quietly at first, but the din of laughter and conversation grows quickly. "...them girls is helpin' the public all right..."

"I am." Simple as that. "There's enough things that Maddock needs that ain't public, Mayor. Stables, a smithy, general store... things that maybe ain't public, but the people need anyways." Nath considers Eugenia's comments, "That could be. I'll work at rebuilding where it needs done, Mayor. I'm just pointing out that not all th'public needs are necessarily public buildings."

One miner's voice raises a bit. "Like the saloon!" One-track mind, those fellows.

Maggie nods in Nath's direction, vaguely, looks on the verge of speech, then settles back again in her pew.

Damien grins and looks back at the miners. He calls back to them, "We've got a saloon already. It's just a little south of here, towards the Ellis place. It's not a proper saloon, just a tent, but the whiskey'll warm you up anyway." He can't resist looking over at O'Dwyer and adding, "And no, we don't take Federal paper."

A quick cheer for Damien's saloon goes up among the miners.

Evan nods, obviously agreeing. With Ryan, not the miner. "The town can't take care of everything..." Properly period limited government and all that jazz. "There are a lot of needs that aren't properly the town government's place. My own shop --" Interrupted by the cheer... "My own shop was destroyed in the fire, and I'll have to pay for that out of my own pocket." Or my own bank account, if Delaware will let me get at it. But let's try to be constructive... "How would you like the town to help you, Mr. Nath?"

Ryan pauses, looks towards the door. "Truth, Mayor? Try to keep the bank and the Quintans from buying up everything in that 'silent auction' that banker was talking about. See about getting some easy stake loans for folks looking to start essential businesses back up - something to match Quintan's offer, at least. As for myself? Just don't put roadblocks out, I guess. I don't want handouts, just a fair chance."

Garrett's expression turns somewhat steely. If only he had this poker face when he was a gambler.

Eugenia's expression falls again at the mention of the silent auction. Her gaze turns from the cross to Garrett's features.

Maggie nods, and ventures, "Does the town... Does the town have any money, for loans? Or could we somehow organize... organize them?"

Damien nods in agreement with Ryan and stands again, waiting for Maggie to finish when she speaks up.. "Like I said, I understand what folks are going through right now. I don't have the sort of money that the Quintans or the Brandts or," he turns towards the mayor, "the Randolphs have but I do have some. If anyone finds themselves needing a little financial help, I'd be pleased if they'd come see me. I'm not offering any charity, you'll have to pay me back eventually, but I think you'll find me a more reasonable lender than the bank."

Ryan's dealt with bankers, oh yes. Dealt with Allard back in the day. Nath defines 'Banker' as 'devious baby-milk-stealing bastard', ayup.

William Tucker rubs his chin, Ryan makes a good point. His gaze wanders at the door briefly. Out there Wilona is waiting for him with a flask of whiskey tucked under a garter... He wonders if he made a run for it right now, if he could get out before anyone noticed.

Damien settles back into his seat.

Evan nods, seriously. "That's just the kind of things I wanted to talk with Mr. Clysdon about, before tonight." But I didn't know he was here before tonight. "Trying to see the town rebuilt, not foreclosed." In response to Maggie, "Mr. Garrett suggested that he might be able to secure some emergency loans from the territorial government. I'm not sure right offhand what all the town's options are, in terms of offering loans."

Garrett nods. "Hopefully I'll be able to secure enough to cover some loans as well as restoration of the public facilities."

Damien's rather cheap shot at the Brandts draws a quick, narrowed gaze from Herod, the hand watching the other man until he sits down. A few more whispers go to the hands near Herod, the men agreeing about some piece of derogatory muttering.

Eugenia joins in a smattering of applause for Garrett.

Maggie nods several times, settling back again. "There ought to be enough money in Maddock for Maddock to take care of itself, rather than ending up under the bank's control, when it's not our bank. That's what I was thinking." Awkwardly.

Evan shrugs a little. "We'll see how it turns out, I suppose. And we'll do our best." But what makes the Quintans or the Brandts rich isn't that they have tons of cash somewhere safe -- they've got land and stock, not liquid assets.

Unhappy muttering begins to pervade the room. "...rich get richer..." "...banker's gonna own the town..." "...starve while they eat steak..."

William wouldn't be in Evan's shoes for all the money in the world, regardless of who has the cash in this town. Legally speaking, its a tough call about what can really be done to stop the Quintans and Brandts and Randolphs from buying whatever land the townsfolk choose to sell. And telling people not to sell when they have no food or income is impossible to do.

Again, the widowed Eugenia speaks up. "If people are so in need of housing, why not build a temporary hotel for 'em?" she suggests. "With kitchen, dining room and all. Later on, someone might be inclined to buy it and run it for their own once the need was over."

Garrett nods along with Tucker's words. This is going to be an ugly time if that banker decides to be a hard-ass about things. But Clysdon will be sorry if he makes Garrett regret the fact that Allard still isn't in charge.

Evan raps his gavel on the altartop again, to quiet muttering. "And as I said, I want to see the town rebuilt, not foreclosed. And not in the hands of just a couple of people." A nod to Eugenia. "I think the temporary housing is a good idea. We can't have so many people living in tents forever." Evan's house is still standing, but his isn't the only one. And yes, he lives in town.

Maggie retreats into Listening again, brow furrowed and hands clasped.

Eugenia glances out the window to the weather. For a moment, her expression is thoughtful. A slight frown mars her features.

Ryan says, "Bring the timber and nails, I'll help build it."

Evan looks around the room. "Is there any further discussion?"

Damien looks around expectantly.

Maggie glances round at the faces, nervously.

Eugenia doesn't seem inclined to offer forth any more opinions. In fact, she slowly rises to her feet as if preparing to be dismissed.

William too, looks around the room. He hopes to see faces that are calmer after this meeting. To some degree he does. At least the neighbors got to talk to each other, and recognize what faces them.

Evan hasn't heard any more discussion, so... *rap* goes the gavel again. "Then I declare this meeting adjourned. Thank you all again for coming." That seems to be about it...

Garrett stands as the crowd begins to disperse. "Thank you ladies and gentlemen, I think in light of your sentiments here, I will be returning to Helena immediately and will return as soon as possible rather than waiting. I think the sooner that we get things rolling the less chance certain undesirable elements will have to exploit our current weakness."

Garrett leaves the implications of his words clear, but unstated as to who those undesirable elements might be.

Eugenia says, "Thank you very kindly, sir."

Garrett smiles and nods pleasantly at Eugenia.

Damien drapes his scarf around his neck and begins pulling on his gloves as he stands. He begins moving in Evan's direction as the crowd permits.

Eugenia may be dressed like a man, but she still talks like a Southern Belle.

Maggie gets slowly to her feet, buttoning her coat. She stuffs her hands in the pockets, and starts maneuvering round the edge of the pew.

Evan has his own few things to do up here, like making a note or two on his papers and collecting his stuff to bundle up and go back home. Wonder if Madeline waited up for me...

Ryan rises to his feet, and begins buttoning up his coat, preparing to face the cold outside the church. Nobody's warming his bed - but he didn't face the hotseat that Evan did, either.

Eugenia adjusts the hat upon her head and pulls closed her lightly battered Confederate coat. The woman shoves her hands in her pockets, readying herself for the long, cold walk back to her bleak little homestead.

As he rises to his feet, William gives a few of the more unruly minors 'The Eye'(tm). He looks towards Garrett, giving him a nod through the throng of people before ducking out the door towards the boarding house.

Garrett approaches Evan, turning his back to the crowd. He claps a hand on the mayor's shoulder. "Not bad...not bad..." He turns to the exiting crowd. "May make a politician out of you yet."

Tucker saunters off towards the roadway.

Tucker has left.

Damien finally breaks through the crowd by virtue of going against the flow and heads for the altar. "Mayor Randolph, might I have a word with you?"

Ryan heads towards the roadway.

Ryan has left.

Maggie starts Evan's way, then hesitates at hearing Damien's question. Um.

Garrett watches Tucker leave. "But I'm afraid that Tucker's in for a little disappointment. I can't see..." He pauses as Damien interjects.

Evan chuckles at Garrett. "I'm not sure I want to make a living at this... I'm just trying to do what's right." And that'll probably end up some other way. He switches back and forth as Garrett and Damien both have things to say... and then lets Garrett defer to Damien. "Yes, Mr. D'Aray?"

Eugenia dips her head and, without a word of goodbye to anyone, slips from the church into the cold air.

Eugenia heads towards the roadway.

Eugenia has left.

Damien glances back and then drops his voice so only those close by can hear over the crowd noise. "I didn't want to make too big a deal about this because I didn't want to get people panicked but I want to renew my suggestion for a hospital. We don't need a surgery or anything like that but..." Another glance towards the crowd. "The people in these tents are living in awfully close quarters. They're tired, they're wet, and they're cold. They're so worried about what they're going to do that they're probably not sleeping well or eating right. Some of them are going to get sick and when they do they're going to make the people around them sick as well. We don't need an epidemic right now. We need someplace to put sick people so they can be cared for without infecting anyone else."

The group of Brandt ranch hands all stand, Herod at the certer of the cluster. Various mumbles proliferate through the group, but all men start to make their way to the door. Herod straightens his Stetson, giving polite nods where necessary as he makes his exit with the rest of the men.

Garrett frowns at Damien's words. "The man has a point, Evan. But a hospital's no good without a doctor. Any word from Doctor Webster?"

Maggie edges a fraction closer, though she only hears a word here and here. Until one of those words is 'Webster'; then she walks right up there.

Evan nods, serious again. "You're right about disease... Something will run right through the camp..." And that's not going to be pretty. Hospital's a fancy word for what we'd probably need -- more like an infirmary and impromptu isolation ward. A shake of the head at Webster. "No, I haven't heard anything from him."

Garrett exhales heavily. "That's going to hurt. I'll see if I can get someone from Helena. Maybe send a telegram to White Sulphur Springs too. They're also in my district."

Damien nods, listening to Evan and Garrett and looking a little relieved that they're listening to him.

Maggie steps back again, looking vaguely disappointed. She nods a generally confused nod at the group, and starts for the door.

Herod heads towards the roadway.

Herod has left.

Damien says, "Well, if you gentlemen will excuse me I need to be getting back to my saloon, such that it is. It's probably knee deep in miners by now."

Evan listens to everyone. That's probably what'll make him a bad politician. He nods at Garrett's suggestion. "If there's anyone available... I'm afraid Mr. D'Aray's right about our need for a doctor." It'll be swift and certain.

Maggie hurries off towards the roadway.

Maggie has left.

Damien strolls off towards the roadway.

Damien has left.

Garrett notices Maggie as she is turning away and a sad look crosses his face. He looks from Evan to Damien, then back to Evan. "A lot of loss in this place, Evan. I suspect there is more to come when people have a chance to stop focusing on living through the next day and actually realize what they've lost."

Evan sighs and nods. "Yes, I'm afraid so. Once we have a chance to really think about it..." I got off easy.

O'Dwyer returns from the sleeping tent, actually not expecting to see any one here.

Garrett nods. "You'll be fine. Just understand that a lot of people won't be. And they'll be angry about it."

O'Dwyer twists his mouth into a frown, and then passes the two gentlemen by, as he walks pass toward the front.

Evan chuckles. "And I'm an easy target." Mr. Mayor, Mr. Public Figure, Mr. Guy With House And Family.

Garrett nods. "That's exactly right. And trust me I've been there."

O'Dwyer looks back at the other two men breifly, and kneels before the wooden cross. He genuflects, and starts speaking without sound, his head bowed.

Garrett takes the clue and lowers his voice to barely a whisper. "I think it's time we left the Lord's house and went to our own." With that he smiles wanly. "Say goodnight to Thy...Madeline for me."

Garrett closes his eyes. Stupid stupid stupid.

Evan shrugs. "I'll... manage, I suppose. My losses just didn't come this time." There are three graves in the cemetery with Randolph names on them. A quick glance toward the praying man, and a nod. Quietly, "Let me know before you go to Helena, all right?" Sounded like you might go tomorrow...

Garrett nods, patting Evan again on the shoulder and letting the mayor precede him out of the church. Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.

O'Dwyer gets up from his kneeling position, genuflecting at the cross as he leaves, as is the Catholic way. If he was watching the two men, he makes no sign.