September 23rd, 1877
Reformed Church
Stepping out of the wooden door arrives a stout man in a black suit. He looks around the small gathering, coughs once then looks towards the
dais. Ayup, there's the casket. O'Mally's in the right place.
[O'Mally]
What might have one been bright red hair has dulled with age and is peppered with streaks of white. Obviously of Irish descent, which is very obvious once the man opens his mouth to speak, Reverend Sean O'Mally sports bright red flushed cheeks and a jovial smile that only a dollop of whiskey (or two or three) can bring.
He is dressed in a somber black suit that has seen it's better days, though there are no apparent wrenches or tears.
Benjamin is sitting in a pew about halfway back, his usual seat for a Sunday service. It seemed like a good enough place for this, too, and if the church doesn't get very full he can always move closer.
Framingham opens the wooden door of the church and steps inside. He is dressed in his Sunday best and his expression is subdued as befits the occasion. As he enters, he removes his hat and hangs it on the rack by the door. Then he nods in greeting to those already present and takes a seat in his usual pew, near the one where Benjamin is sitting.
Wilona enters on Tucker's arm, her own attire somber for the occasion. Breaking away from his lead she looks about quickly before realizing that Madeline is not here. A soft murmur to her companion, "Do you think she will make it?"
Framingham cannot help but overhear Wilona's question about Madeline. After his strange conversation with the Widow
Randolph only a few days earlier, he would believe anything of her, even that she would miss her husband's funeral. However, he makes no comment on Wilona's words, but instead says softly to Benjamin, "Hello, Ben. How are you?"
Tucker takes off his hat and walks slowly down the pews with Wilona by his side. Replying quietly to Wilona, he says, "Ahrm not sure... I spoke to Mrs. Randolph yesterday. She is up and about, but..." William shrugs and gives Wilona a knowing look. Madeline was rightly upset, but was trying to remain strong under the worst of circumstances. He moves towards one of the front pews and waits politely there, not ready to sit down yet.
Barron takes off his hat and moves to one of the front pews, stepping down the way a bit and taking his seat, his hat on his lap. He already finished his cigarette, pitching it before he came into the hallowed hall.
Garrett removes his hat and walks quietly towards the front of the church. He takes the time to nod politely to those who meet his gaze.
Damien escorts Letitia into the church, his expression somber as he takes off his hat. He guides his fiancee' towards one of the front pews, though not so far forward as to intrude on the mayor's family and close friends.
At the altar, a stout man is present and it is most certainly not Greg Brandt. The man looks up occasionally, looking over the folks arriving. At a moment when he thinks no one is watching, O'Mally steals a nip of whiskey from his flask.
Letitia is led into the church by Damien. She is lightly clasping his elbow. An appropriately somber expression is upon her face, though she didn't know the mayor very well at all.
Madeline took her time in getting herself to the church, yes, but miss the funeral entirely. No matter what else the town might think of her, surely they can't believe that she'd do that. Joshua wide-eyed and one hand fisted in the sleeve of her dress, Madeline makes her way toward the front of the church, sparing wan smiles for those who catch her eye as she goes. She settles Joshua on the pew first, then sits beside him and takes his hand with hers.
Christopher has his hat in his hand as he enters. A quick consideration, and he takes a seat near the middle, on the outside of one of the pews.
Rick walks over to Elise, greeting her in a suitably quiet voice.
Angelique remains in the back, watching the people take seats before she goes to sit down herself - way in the back, an unreadable expression on her face. She seems rather detached - but at least she doesn't look amused or mischievous today.
Elise enters quietly, offering a slight nod of acknowledgment to Rick's greeting. She doesn't speak herself, but sits in one of the back pews, as to not intrude with the mourners who knew the mayor well.
Garrett watches as nobody sits near the widow and her son. Well, if it is left to him, then so be it. He approaches the front row and inclines his head to Madeline as he passes in front of her, he whispers and somehow the sound carries through the silent church. "May I?" He indicates the empty row beyond where she and Joshua are seated.
Letitia almost clasps Damien's hand once they are seated, but she glances to him and quietly smiles instead. With a lace-edged handkerchief in one hand, she clasps her fingers upon her lap.
O'Mally takes another nip of the whiskey and the bottle disappears quickly. "Are we ready to begin?" He looks over the towns folks carefully, so many unfamiliar faces. He hopes the widow is there somewhere.
Benjamin shakes his head slightly, waking himself from whatever reverie he was in, and nods to the judge. "I've been OK. You?"
Surprise flickers across Madeline's expression, just for a moment, and is gone the moment after. She nods, though, glances down the mostly empty pew, and back up at Garrett. "Of course." Joshua frowns tinily at Garrett, but doesn't protest.
Barron settles into his seat. Back straight, in his fresh Sunday black suit, his hat next to him. He has his hands on his lap, just waiting patiently.
Tucker finally takes his seat, after standing while most of the town files into the church. He holds his hat in his lap and listens to the quiet conversations around him. So many new people who probably never met the mayor but once or twice attended today. Its a good sign of community. For his own part, William didn't get a chance to know Even much personally. Only times to discuss business and nothing more. Its a shame.
Wilona leans over and murmurs to Tucker, "I don't recognize the Reverend. Could Greg not make it?"
Garrett smiles down sympathetically at Joshua, hoping he remembers the man fondly. Then he takes the seat on the further side of the pew, quickly retrieving a folded piece of paper from his breast pocket and turning it absently in his hand.
Eugenia eases into the church in the only suitable funeral dress that she owns: her own widow's gown. The woman pauses to look over those who are assembled. Clearing her throat, she lifts her head with nervous pride and makes her way toward Sheriff Barron.
Framingham's brows draw together in surprise and mild disapproval when he sees that Reverend Brandt will not be performing the service. However, the expression fades as quickly as it appears. "I have been well," he replies in a hushed voice to Benjamin. He settles back against the uncomfortable wooden pew to watch the proceedings.
Tucker replies to Wilona, equally hushed. "It appears not... maybe this man is a family preacher. I know Mr. Randolph had family back east... lest... that's what I was led to believe."
Barron makes room for Eugenia. He nods his head to her, and puts his hat on the other side of him, shifting on the hard wooden bench.
Angelique wonders what she is doing here. She sits apart from the others in the back, by the aisle, glancing over at the people she recognizes, if she can see them.
O'Mally coughs loudly, opens his book and seems to thumb through several pages before finding his place. He mutters, "Here we go." Another throat clearing and the man opens his mouth to read, except the words are all blurred together. He lifts his hand to his nose and pinches it quickly before regarding the words again. Right, he'll have to wing it. "Alrighty then, let's get this started."
Eugenia sidles down the pew to where Barron sits and asks, "May I sit here, Sheriff?" in a hushed drawl.
Damien clasps his hands in his lap as he studies the new preacher with a curous look.
Madeline, truth to tell, would much have preferred to have Greg perform the ceremony, but one can't be too particular. The Reverend has a family of his own to tend to, after all. O'Mally speaking to himself doesn't instill her with confidence, but she'll make do. She shifts Joshua's hand to her other, and drapes her arm around his shoulders lightly.
Barron pats the seat next to him and rises to his feet. "Please do, ma'am." he murmurs, glancing at her. He waits for her to sit before he reseats himself, his hands going back into his lap.
Rick sits next to Elise, but doesn't speak, so as not to interrupt the preacher.
O'Mally wings it alright, raising his voice as he announces. "We are here today, to celebrate a man. A man whose made his life in this town as a "... squint ... "lawyer, I am told, caused quite an impact on the townspeople gathered here to see him to peace. Mayor.." He chortles a little, then corrects himself. "He's the Mayor, not the lawyer. Mayor Evan Randald." Completely unaware of his name gaff, the man continues quickly and without much haste through the standard psalm readings.
Christopher watches all the other townsfolk take their places, noting some new faces, as well as a goodly amount of the old guard, present. Once the preacher starts speaking, his attention turns to the man, a slight tilt of the head at the man's initial words. He's been to a great number of funerals, but never once heard one commence with those exact words.
Damien frowns with a slight hint of distaste at the preacher's mistakes. The mayor was a damn Yankee but he still deserves to be spoken of in a respectful manner, especially in this place at this time by this man.
Garrett's brows furrow at the amazing turn of events he is facing. A drunk Irish minister delivering a misremembered sermon for someone he barely knows and this will be Evan's eulogy. Somewhere Karl Quintan is laughing.
Oh dear god. Not only is Greg unavailable, but the man replacing him can't get simple facts right? The color drains out of Madeline's cheeks. "Randolph," she murmurs, not too loudly, but a correction all the same. "Evan Randolph."
Letitia plucks a little at the lace handkerchief she's holding, but then endeavours to pay attention once more. She lifts her chin and gazes toward the widow rather than the minister. A touch of sympathy enters her neutral face.
Eugenia settles down by the Sheriff as quietly as she's able, folding her hands in her lap and sitting up straight and proper. Briefly, she looks to Jack Barron, but then she is attentive to the ceremony.
William Tucker rubs the palm of his hand against his eye, as if trying to scrub away whatever he sees. Hopefully, thinks the Marshal, it will go uphill from here. A minister can afford to make quite a few mistakes, but certainly flubbing the name of the recently deceased has to go up there with one of those -not- to ever make.
Barron gives the man a fairly nasty stare. His lips shift into a thin line, and he remains silent,e ven if his hands move the hat to his lap and work it in circles.
Christopher tenses his jaw at the faux paux. Kicking it off like he did is one thing, but this is not acceptable. Not in the least. he contemplates saying something in correction, as Madeline does so. Perhaps he will talk to the man after the fact. Surely another minister could have found in Great Falls. Hell, a Shaman might be a better choice than this clown.
O'Mally got the name wrong? He hears the murmur, rising up from the crowd and would blush but his face is already reddened from other reasons. He clears his throat and says clearly once he has completed the psalm reading. "Right, Randolph." Barron's glance is completely overlooked, or perhaps simply not felt. "I have prepared a small speech here, but really as I have already proven, this man was not someone I knew. I'd like to invite anyone here, among the mourners who might have a word to say about Mr. Randolph to step forward and say his or her peace."
Framingham blinks in surprise at the unfamiliar preacher's words, and the expression of disapproval returns to his face. He straightens in his seat, nodding automatically as he hears Madeline's whispered correction and gives the minister the stern, cold stare that he usually reserves for the defendant after the jury has returned with a guilty verdict.
O'Mally coughs and looks around. Anyone? The silence seems to be hanging quite still in the air. Maybe everyone's praying. That might be it. O'Mally quickly lowers his head as well, saying a quick prayer that the town doesn't lynch him after the funeral.
O'Mally got the name wrong, yes. At least he knows when to quit. Madeline nods, very slight dip of the chin, and then waits. She will not look to see whether anyone is standing to step forward and speak about Evan. She'll wait, a few silent heartbeats. If by then no one has stepped forward, well, she'll speak herself.
Letitia gazes quietly at the cross upon the wall. If she'd known the man at all, she would speak to save this
embarrassing silence, but, as it is, she might do no better than the current eulogist.
Garrett sees Madeline about to stand. Lord, almighty is there nothing that people in this town will spare a grieving widow from? He stands quickly, hoping that nobody saw that the widow was about to have to speak at her own husband's funeral. "Reverend...Mrs. Randolph...I have a few words that I'd like to say."
If Angelique finds the sermon somewhat out of the ordinary, it doesn't show on her face. She watches O'Mally with the same detached expression as earlier. She never met the Mayor, or his family. She shifts on the hard bench, uncomfortable not only so much because of the hard seating, but also because of being on a funeral for a person she has only heard about. A glance at Christopher as O'Mally announces that anyone can speak, followed by a slow, rather wry smile.
"I have something to say." Wilona shoots up from her chair, simply unable to stand the silence any longer. She realizes that Garrett has also risen and smiles at him.
Garrett meets Wilona's gaze over the tops of the crowd. "Miss Jenkins...I will cede the floor to you if you wish. Ladies first after all."
O'Mally doesn't care who comes to speak, he's just happy someone spoke aloud. He steps back from the dias and motions Wilona up when Garrett defers to her.
A look of thoughtfulness had come over Damien's features at O'Mally's announcement but now it is replaced with a certain measure of gratefulness and relief as he looks first to Garrett and then Wilona as each speaks up, nodding to himself. Good, perhaps the man will get a fitting eulogy after all without his widow having to speak.
Wilona moves up to the front of the church, offering Madeline a smile as she passes. Looking out over the many gathered folks, the woman almost loses her courage. "In the years since Evan came to our town, first as a gunsmith and then as Mayor, he has done everything he can to make this town what it was. He then watched it all, every building vanish in a night of smoke." Wilona can't help but look at Damien. "And he didn't give up. No. Instead he rebuilt, encouraged us, embraced us, and as a result Maddock is growing to be grand again." She glances now towards the coffin. "Evan was a fine man. And a fine friend. We shall have to always remember him for what he has given to this town. And to many of us."
There is genuine sympathy upon Eugenia's face as she looks toward Madeline. It hasn't yet been a year since her own husband died and Genie remembers the depth of the initial loss.
Barron looked like he was ready to say something and rise to his feet but stills himself as others speak. He simply nods to what Wilona says, and continues to work the hat in his lap.
Wilona might have wanted to say more, to maybe be more eloquent, but really the woman is a bit distraught by her own words and she moves to sit down before anyone notices she might cry.
O'Mally was nipping at his bottle again, his own eulogy to the corpse behind him. Realizing that Wilona has stopped speaking he motions towards Garrett, "Sir?"
When Wilona looks at Damien and mentions the fire, Letitia gently reaches over to place her hand upon the man's sleeve.
Bright-eyed, Madeline still works up a smile that only wavers at the corners, for Wilona's sake. A little nod, a little acknowledgement of the words, and a silent thanks. Madeline's said thank you quite often in the past few days. She'll be doing it for a few more.
Damien shows no reaction to Wilona's look, only nods in agreement when the woman finishes speaking.
For the first time since the unusual funeral service began, Framingham relaxes as he listens to Wilona's words. He nods in agreement and gives her an encouraging smile. But when he notices the bottle in O'Mally's hands, his disapproval returns full force and he shakes his head sadly. What is the town coming to, when the saloon owner is a better preacher than the minister?
Garrett stands and takes the few steps to the dais. He looks sympathetically at Madeline, then out to the crowd. "This is certainly not the first time I have addressed you all, and not the first time I have had to address you in times of trouble. However, this is by far the most difficult speech I think I have ever made." He exhales and looks down at the podium for a moment.
Garrett says, "For my part I will say this. I did not know Evan Randolph very well. But the particular constraints of my job make it difficult for me to get to know anyone very well. I trusted him as a leader and as a man of this community. Being a gunsmith, I first met him when I was shopping for a gun. I had wanted something to replace my old pistol. Something newer...more exciting...more powerful. After an afternoon with him in his store talking about what it means to own a gun, I left without a new gun. But with a new appreciation for the one that I had. I will remember Evan Randolph for his wisdom. The wisdom of knowing that some things in life are worth holding onto despite the fact that they're not the best or brightest, most powerful or most beautiful, but because they fit. My gun was eventually stolen and now I am forced to purchase a new one. I will carefully weigh and test all the choices before eventually deciding on what I feel is best. And when I do, I'll be thinking of Mayor Randolph and his lesson about what fits. You all will soon have to make a decision out of necessity. I pray that you will honor his memory and do the same."
O'Mally actually listens quite intensely to Garrett, even manages an 'Amen' at the end of it. Don't get the Reverend wrong, he's paying his respects the one way he knows how. By toasting the man, over and over. When Garrett finishes, the man drawls out with a bit of a slur, "Any one else like to say something?"
Garrett looks down at the podium again, then takes a moment to rub his eyes briefly. "I also have a message for you all." He begins to unfold the piece of paper that he'd been worrying while he was seated next to Madeline.
Letitia's eyebrows lift and she studies Garrett anew at his mention of a message.
Eugenia curiously studies the Territorial Representative. What message is important enough to interrupt a funeral?
Christopher watches the two stand and offer words about the town's mayor. He follows suit, after they are done, and strides to the pulpit. He's going to say something about his sister's husband? Instead of standing behind it, he stands beside it, hat held in both hands. He lowers his head, as he begins, "Evan Randolph was a good man. A good husband, but most importantly, a good father." At that he looks up, and looks to Madeline and Joshua. No bones about it, he's well aware of just how poor a man, husband, and father Karl was. "He was my brother-in-law, but I didn't know him as well as I probably should have. We have all been blessed to know the man, or those of us that didn't to know of his deeds, and hear of what kind of man he was. We should all strive to be more like him, find the good that each of us can offer to each other, and continue to carry his values and beliefs in what this town and community is all about." With that, he walks over to his sister, offering both her and Joshua a hug.
This, this is better. This is better than speaking herself. This is what Evan deserved. So Madeline sits and listens, and as she listens, though her eyes remain bright, she finds it a little easier to smile. Joshua, who leans against her side, gets his hair smoothed carefully, and she looks up to watch the men who speak. The hug from Christopher is startling, to be certain, but quietly accepted and returned, from Madeline at least. Joshua simply sits and is hugged.
Garrett retakes the podium after Christopher, looking a bit pleasantly surprised. He straightens up and holds the now unfolded paper in front of him and reads aloud: "To Mrs. Evan Randolph and the people of Maddock Montana. It is with great sorrow that I heard the news of your tragic loss. I know that these have been trying times for all of you in Maddock. Representative Garrett and I have had numerous conversations about the situation there. It grieves me deeply to have heard of the loss of such a fine man and civic leader. Nevertheless, I trust that Maddock will soldier on in the wake of even this latest adversity with the same determinedness that you have shown in the past. Mayor Randolph himself took office in a time of adversity and just as we are all proud of the Maddock that he helped make, I'm sure he will be proud of the Maddock that comes after him. May God bless and keep you all. Sincerely, Sidney Edgerton, Montana Territorial Governor."
Garrett clears his throat softly and takes the step down from the podium. He stands directly in front of Madeline, and offers her the letter from the Governor. "If you please madame, you may keep this."
Letitia smiles at the letter from the governor, glancing again toward Madeline. Now there is something of which to be proud!
There are many who know of the governor, many more who don't know the man's name, but surely understand the importance of such a letter that Garrett reads. They break into soft murmurs among themselves in interested conversation.
O'Mally steps up to the podium again, not really trolling for more speakers since his flask has gone empty. Still he looks around, while everyone absorbs the most recently spoken words, not about to deny anyone who might like to speak.
Framingham glances around the room to see if anyone else wishes to speak about the late Mayor. Keeping his voice low, but still loud enough to carry across the room, he says to O'Mally, "Reverend, when everyone has finished speaking, I would like to say a few words."
Oh dear. Oh dear oh dear. Madeline was holding it together. She was. Kind words spoken for a man departed aren't easy to hear from those who knew him. Words like these from a man who knew Evan only by reputation, though, from the Governor of the territory. Well. It's always the things that are out of place that take us most off guard, aren't they? Madeline accepts the governor's letter with a trembling hand, and with as much dignity as she can muster in light of the tears that streak her face. Oh dear.
Wilona glances at Tucker and smiles softly to him at Garrett's words. She reaches down and squeezes William's hand.
Tucker smiles at Wilona and now that she has helped break the ice, he rises to his feet, and clears his throat. "I believe Ahrl say a word or two, iffin you don't mind reverend." Not that he expects any sort of protest from the tipsy priest. He moves to the front podium, giving Madeline a somber look on the way. As he stands in front of the podium, he clears his throat once again and says, "When I returned to Maddock, some 7 or 8 months ago now, I found this town in ruin. There was nothing left but smoke, grief, and lawlessness. For the life of me, I had no idea how there was anything left. How, with the
destruction of most of the businesses and much of the wealth, how this place could remain any sort of town at all. Then I met Evan Randolph. His strength, friendship with the people, and honest service to this town was the glue that held the scarred flesh of Maddock together. Evan Randolph was a rare man who gave his life so generously and completely to civil service. Such compassion has earned himself a place by Jesus's side and if a poor man like myself ever manages to squeeze through the pearly gates, I know Evan will be there to greet me with that same generous and giving spirit." William looks at Madeline again, nodding his head seriously, then returns quietly to his seat.
O'Mally didn't object to Tucker, nor will he to Framingham once Tucker finishes speaking. "Of course, sir. Do, please come forward." O'Mally says to Framingham, once again relinquishing his post so that another man can speak.
Eugenia says a quiet, "Amen," when Tucker finishes speaking.
Despite the preacher's invitation for him to step forward, Framingham remains in his seat for a few moments longer, looking to see if anyone else wishes to speak.
Garrett nods along with Tucker, remembering have to reassure the Marshall that the mayor was indeed a man of good character. Looks like he learned for himself well enough. Well said Marshall.
When no one else steps forward to speak, Framingham pushes to his feet and walks up the aisle to the pulpit. He gives the reverend a polite nod and then turns to face the crowd.
O'Mally steps aside, so pleased that Evan was well liked. It's easier then the Irish reverend having to stand here for an hour talking of a man he didn't know.
Madeline will just sit with a hand clapped over her mouth and the other arm around Joshua and attempt to get her tears under control. Where's the blessed handkerchief she tucked into her sleeve, just in case? Ah, there.
Framingham rests one hand against the lectern and his deep voice carries across the room. "Evan Randolph was a just man and a fine leader for this town. His loss has affected us all very deeply and profoundly. We will never be able to replace him or find another who can truly fill his shoes. I hope you will forgive me, Mrs. Randolph, for raising an issue of importance to the town during his funeral, but I believe your husband would have wanted us to discuss this were he with us today." He gives Madeline a look of apology mixed with sympathy. "After watching the events of the last few months, I have been growing more and more concerned about the burdens that we put upon our town leaders. The assassination of the late Mayor Randolph finally brought home to me just how dangerous and lonely the position of Mayor of Maddock has become. I have given the matter a great deal of thought, and I have a proposal to make to the good folk of this town. If you agree with my idea, we can vote to amend the town charter during the upcoming elections." He pauses to watch the reaction of the crowd before continuing.
Eugenia downright -scowls- from her place in the pew. How dare the judge bring up politics at a time like -this-!
Barron shifts a bit in his seat. He frowns slightly, but doesn't say anything. He worries the hat some more, sets it to his side and concentrates on the judge.
Even Letitia seems rather taken aback by Judge Framingham's 'eulogy'. Wouldn't another time be better for such things?
Christopher's reaction is about the same as to that of the preacher at the beginning of the services. He ponders voicing his opinion, but for now,
remains silent.
Angelique lets out a strangled sound, and quickly clasps a hand over her lips. Exactly what kind of sound it is, is hard to discern. One of dismay? A laugh? She composes herself and lowers the hand back into her lap, forming her face into one of neutrality again. Now, this is quite interesting. Brown-green eyes once more stray towards Christopher for a moment, to see his reaction.
Wilona knows of the danger Framingham speaks and she has seen it affect first hand her friend. When the room grows quiet, too quiet, she does the only thing she knows how. Rally's to his side. Who would have thought, Wilona doing something remotely nice for Judge. "And what amendment is that, Judge Framingham?"
O'Mally checks his flask again, damn still empty. Where's the magical leprechauns that are supposed to refil these things during times of need.
Elise raises a brow, a perplexed expression on her face. She shifts in her seat, gaze fixed on the judge in curiosity. The writer glances towards Wilona at her question before returning her eyes to the man in front.
William isn't to bothered by Framingham's talk either, after all, funerals and weddings are pretty much the only assured time you can find most of the town gathered together. He doubts that Evan would have minded either.
Madeline knew the topic was going to have to come up. She didn't know it was going to come up here. She glances toward Wilona at the question, then turns back toward the podium, and the judge. Clearing her throat, she speaks up loudly enough that the entire church should be able to hear, for the first time. "I understand the need for us to move on, Judge Framingham, and ... and I'm certain that Evan would agree, but ... maybe a town meeting should be called."
Christopher offers now, what he was thinking, "Or at the reception, at the least, sir?"
Seeing the dark looks from the audience, the judge nods apologetically. "As I said, I hope you will forgive me for raising this subject at this time. I do so only from necessity, because I do not wish to see any other man suffer the tragic fate of Mayor Randolph. If you wish me to raise the subject at a town meeting or a later date, I will do so, but I fear that any delay might subject our town to further hardship. And I firmly believe that our late Mayor, who was a good friend of mine, would have approved of this topic being raised at this time."
Eugenia folds her arms across her chest, looking stubborn and displeased.
Matilda enters the church from the doors to the west.
O'Mally thinks that if this doesn't end soon, he's going to have to wait too long for his drink so he follows suit of several suggestions and steps up to the podium, "Yes. Yes. A town meeting, and of course there is a lovely reception planned outside after the service." Least that's what he's been told. No graveside ceremonies today. He will wait to see if Framingham will retreat before saying the last prayer.
Matilda slips very quietly inside and moves up into the stairway.
Matilda climbs up the stairway in the back part of the church. The acoustics of the church cause each footstep to echo a bit in the sanctuary below.
"I think," Madeline says, after clearing her throat another time, "that the town is more aware of dangers than it's ever been, Judge Framingham. Let Evan rest with the words that have been spoken for him. I'll personally gather people into a meeting, soon. Very soon. But for now, let him rest with the words that have been spoken for him. Please."
"Of course," Framingham says to Madeline. "And I do apologize once again for disrupting this service with such talk. I did not realize that it would trouble the people here in such a fashion. I will talk to some of the town leaders about scheduling a town meeting in the near future." He steps away from the lectern and back down to his pew.
After the girl slips off into the stairwell, there is silence from the alcove. However, as the moments pass, a quiet, golden soprano begins to reverently drift from the stairs up to the steeple. Too shy to speak up in front of others, Matilda offers her own small tribute to the mayor of her new home. 'Ave Maria. Gratia plena Maria. Gratia plena. Maria. Gratia plena. Ave, ave dominus, Dominus tecum. Benedicta tu in mulieribus, Et benedictus fructus ventris, Ventris tui Jesus, Ave Maria.' slowly, but beautifully wafts out of the stairwell.
O'Mally clears his throat. "As I mentioned there is a reception outside. Food and coffee provided buy the L-U-C. Luck. Cute name." He looks upwards towards the stairs and says, "The ceremony has ended, you may go in peace." And get drunk. Huzzah.
Barron has remained silent throughout all of this. He rises to his feet, his hand in his hand and pads over towards Madeline, moving in the lanky gait of his.
Eugenia's green eyes follow Barron when he rises and she suppresses a small sigh. Her scowl has faded, but now she gently frowns.
Angelique looks upwards at the voice from the girl, and a genuinely gentle smile comes to her lips. She looks back towards the front of the church, at the
coffin where the dead mayor rests. Her lips move, as if she says a silent prayer.
Wilona whispers to Tucker and then slips out for a moment. She'll be milling around outside, really, wouldn't miss this except for lack of a player.
Madeline murmurs a thanks toward Framingham, and offers him a smile. Joshua is given a kiss atop the head, and she starts to gather herself to stand, governor's letter neatly folded, when she glances up and spots Barron. "Sheriff."
Barron has his hat in his hands. His voice is a soft murmur, designed to carry to her, and her only. "Ah'm sorry ma'am. There's nothin' ah can say to make it better, ah'm afraid. Exceptin' that ah won't rest 'till I find the sorry sonuva.." he clears his throat. "The men or man that did this and see 'em brought to justice. You have mah word on that, y'hear?"
With more power and sweetness than she could have mustered standing before the crowd, Matilda hides in the stairwell and finishes the song. Her voice is quiet, so as not to interrupt what is going on in the church proper. 'Ave Maria. Mater dei. Ora pro nobis pecatoribus, Ora, ora pro nobis, Ora, ora pro nobis pecatoribus, Nunc et in hora mortis, In hora mortis nostrae, In hora moris, mortis nostrae, In hora mortis nostrae, Ave Maria' sings the Canadian girl. For someone whose native tongue is French, her Latin is nearly flawless.
Framingham remains in his seat as the others file past his expression thougtful and slightly troubled. He gives Madeline a brief smile in return, but listens to Barron's words without comment.
Madeline smiles the same faint smile and nods. "I wish you luck, Sheriff. I wish you much luck. You will need it."
Elise listens to the singing quietly, then rises to her feet and makes her way towards the church doors silently. She pauses at the doors to glance back briefly, her eyes trailing over the cross and those gathered, then turns and exits.
Angelique gathers her skirt and stands up, and then strides out of the church.
Barron nods to Madeline. He offers a smile down to the little boy, and looks up at the singing. He listens for several seconds, before he makes his way back to where
Eugenia sits.
Eugenia rises to her feet as the Sheriff approaches. Politely, she inclines her head to the man. "Sheriff Barron," she says in her Southern contralto.
William Tucker makes his way to the isle, he already gave the Widow Randolph his condolences, and he is sure he will have time again to give them to her anew in the moments and days ahead. At least they are going to be well taken care of, the old Quintan Ranch still in their charge. Injuries to the soul, however, will only be taken care of with time and the love of friends and family. His eyes rest on the child, Joshua, who has lost his father at so young an age. He slowly places his hat back on his head. He cocks his head slightly, listening to the beautiful sound. Not a bad funeral after all. He heads outside for the reception.
Madeline climbs to her feet then, and asks the boy who still sits, "Do you want me to carry you, or will you walk?" In silent answer, Joshua scoots himself off the pew and to his feet, then reaches up to take his mother's hand. Madeline's not ready to go outside just yet, though. She takes the few steps to where Garrett sits, and says, quietly, "Thank you."
Matilda waits a few moments after her song has ended and then she tries to slip out of the building without being noticed.
Barron dips his head, "Ma'am. Would you like an escort to the reception?" he asks. "Or an escort home, to make sure you are safe?" He glances at Matilda as she leaves, and smiles.
Garrett stands when Madeline does, his hat in hand, his arm bent at the elbow revealing the black armband on it. He inclines his head in acknowledgement, "If you need anything, I'm just down the street." He smiles down to Joshua and then back at Madeline before turning to head for the door.
Eugenia hides a smile as she reaches for Jack Barron's elbow. "I'd be honored, Sheriff, especially since you remembered not to bring a lit smoke into church this time," she murmurs.
Garrett puts his hat back on his head, strolling slowly towards his horse, head down, looking deep in thought.
Angelique is waiting outside of the church, standing aside of the exit and currently speaking seriously to Tucker.
Matilda's eyes follow Garrett as he makes his way to his horse. She smiles, but she does not approach the man, choosing instead to sort of blend into the exiting crowd.
William nods to Angelique's words. "Yessim, he sure was. I regret that I didn't take the time to get to know the man better. Whenever we spoke, all I spoke was business. Ain't that the way it always works?" William's smile returns, although it is filled with irony, not humor.
Eugenia mutters to Barron, "Still... be... are... are... break down... that..."
Barron comes out of the church, Eugenia's arm slid into his own. He's chatting with her quietly, as he step out onto the lawn.
Christopher exits the church, and places his hat on his head. He's in a somber mood, even for him. He nods to those present, and partakes of some of the hospitality provided by, most likely, the LAC.
Angelique smiles wryly. "That is exactly how things work, Marshal." she agrees with William. She takes a few steps more to the side, as more and more people exit from the church, not wanting to be in the way, nodding at those she recognizes. "So - how are you and Mademoiselle Jenkins?" she asks after a
pause.
Garrett gives his horse a final pat on the flank and then begins to mingle with the assembled crowd. As he is speaking to some member of the LAC, Madeline exits. He stops talking, undoubtedly a lot of others do as well.
Eugenia looks away from the sheriff to the mayor's widow with sympathy.
Somehow, in all of the commotion, Matilda ends up right at Tucker's elbow. She doesn't say anything, she merely clasps her hands behind her back.
Kei arrives, dressed entirely in his bright white suit. Around his neck is a simple white gauze band. His horse, also draped with a white piece of silk, has been combed, and shines palomino. He looks very solemn, and very tired. Upon seeing the widow arrive, he moves off to the side, and comes to sit on the ground, at the end of the forming queue, on his knees.
Barron frowns slightly. His hands bounce slightly, and he makes it about fifteen steps out of hte church before he begins to reflexively roll a cigarette.
"Ahrm fine, Miss Jenkins is too. Though I suspect she would like to see me more often, rather than gallivanting around on some matter or another." William Tucker nods his head at Angelique, "How about yerself? Still planning on working for Wilona once her business is built? Or have you taken on at the General Store for good?"
Eugenia cannot -help- but to begin chuckling when she sees how antsy Barron is for a cigarette.
Madeline wasn't expecting that sort of reaction, for people to stop talking. She's rather startled by it, and then she's abruptly choked up by it again. Joshua hugs her leg and she stoops to pick him up, clearing her throat as she does. A little smile, and she says, "For heaven's sake. The sad part is finished. Don't everyone stand there looking as if they're afraid to speak."
Miguel has remained near the edges of the crowd, though present with his entire brood. The children, as children do, have been fidgety, necessitating the adults trade off on who has been in the church and who has not. Miguel has outside duty now.
At an apropos moment Zamir hands Madeline a bowl of cherries (a bowl Kei would recognize) "To sweeten your grief." he explains
Angelique settles her eyes on Matilda, now noticing the young woman. She offers Matilda a warm, friendly smile. "Mademoiselle." She looks back at Tucker, and the smile turns somewhat strained. "I am very well, thank you. And I will indeed work for Mademoiselle Jenkins." Nothing about the general store.
Garrett can't help but smile at Madeline's words. He then obligingly continues his conversation about some inconsequential matter with the LAC.
"Mademoiselle Dumont," Matilda quietly says to Angelique as she shyly smiles. She looks sidelong and upward at Tucker, giving him a little nod of hello.
Madeline accepts the offered cherries with a smile and a murmured, "Thank you." Now she's an arm full of boy, and a hand full of cherries. In other situations, this might be funny.
William shrugs at Angelique, nonplussed. He lives off of half founded rumors and innuendo when it comes to small talk anyway. Angelique doesn't seem like the shopkeeper type, regardless. "Whelp, that's good to hear. I think the buildin' is coming along right smartly, though I ain't asked Wilona about it in a couple weeks." William shoves up his hat with a stray thumb, and looks around to the small crowd exchanging there condolences around.
Kei waits a moment before eventually rising, having concluded whatever it is he intended to do. Exhaling, and trying not to look
like death warmed over (there's enough of that going on) he lingers, decidedly uncomfortable at the gathering, and trying, in that bright white suit, not to look too conspicuous. Following his culture sure has been a pain in the proverbial bahonkus so far. Upon seeing Madeline's
encumbrance, he moves and offers to help. "Do you want me to hold something, Mrs randolph?" He asks. Her name is still pronounced somewhat like 'Landoff'. He can't quite get the R and L in it.
Zamir also offers to take and watch the boy
Miguel nods, murmurs something to his elder child, Marcos. The youth glances over and nods, then begins to wind his way through the crowd to stand next to Madeline and Joshua. "Senora," Fifteen year old Marcos murmurs in a voice much like his father: "Maybe I take the bowl or Joshua. I would like," Marcos smiles at the very younger child, "To see if maybe Joshua wants to look at the food table." There's got to be a food table
around here somewhere. There always is at Mexican funerals.
Matilda's eyes stray away from Tucker and Angelique to follow the white clad Kei with
curiosity.
"I've been at the construction a few times, speaking to Monsieur Grey." Angelique explains to Tucker. "It looks to be on its way quite nicely, if I may say so." Some cheerfulness returns to her. "I look forward to begin work there." She
addresses Matilda, curiously. "Mademoiselle - have you thought any more about what I spoke to you about? On the general store?"
Barron lights his cigarette, inhaling heavily. He seems to relax by degrees now, and takes Eugenia's arm again, glancing around.
Eugenia gently hugs the Sheriff's elbow with both of her hands. That grasp is oddly proprietary, but she seems at ease with him. A light grin touches her lips as she watches him with his cigarette and says something quietly to the man.
Eugenia mutters to Barron, "... You'd... sometime that... bad..."
William nods pleasantly at Angelique's words. He turns his attention, like her, to Matilda. Now there is a gal who has half the LAC working hard on her side to spread rumors like butter on a sweet roll. One eyebrow arches as he regards Matilda somewhat solemnly, although this is probably due more to the occasion than anything else. He brushes his fingers against the brim of his hat, in way of hello.
Barron chuckles at Eugenia. He inhales heavily on his cigarette, and says something back quietly to her, standing just outside the door.
Theo arrives late, with slightly dampened hair that yet spots his shirt. Likely overslept. He does have the good grace to look
embarrassed and linger near the entrance. For once, a gathering in Maddock and the LAC isn't charging admission.
Matilda looks back to Angelique with a very faint smile. "Oui, I have. I think it would be a good idea, I do. I have not spoken to Monsieur Quintan again, however," she reveals as she expressively shrugs. Tucker's attention causes her to blush as well as grin up at him. "Allo, Marshal."
In the face of so many people, Joshua's not about to let anyone take him. As a matter of fact, he fists a hand in the fabric of Madeline's dress again, and pulls himself closer to her, frowning. About to answer both Kei and Zamir, Madeline's cut short by Marcos' quiet invitation. She considers the boy on her hip, then says, "Excuse me," and turns her back to duck her head and murmur in Joshua's ear. It's a moment more, then Joshua slides down off her hip, takes the step and half to Marcos' side, and takes the older boy's hand. Marcos will note, because he'd know to look, that Joshua clutches a wooden soldier tightly in one fist. And Madeline turns back to Kei and Zamir, saying, "I think I'm fine, now. But thank you, both."
Eugenia responds back to Barron. Despite the solemn occasion, she seems to be teasing him.
Angelique visibly lights up at that. "Tres bon!" she exclaims, rather loudly. "Well, Monsieur Quintan is here today, of course. We should see to it that you speak with him before the reception is over, n'est ce pas?"
Marcos grins, taking both the boy's hands in his and crouching down somewhat to speak to the much shorter Joshua. Words about the soldier, in Marcos' quiet and clipped English, and a nod toward that. Then Marcos offers, even, to carry Joshua if he doesn't want to wade through the crowd. There's a hint of good-humoured pride in the youth's voice as he informs the young boy that he is /strong/. Marcos then nods to Madeline, sobers his expression, and mentions, "I will take good care of the nino, Senora."
William tilts his head slightly, "Maam... mighty good to see you here." He smiles slightly at Matilda. He doesn't remember seeing her inside during the service. Glancing briefly around he takes note that many more people showed up for the reception than the service. Either they heard about the Irish priest beforehand, or they felt too uncomfortable to attend the funeral. Still, seeing more people here is a good thing.
Barron replies back to Eugenia with a grin, shaking his head and shrugging his head slightly to settle his hat moreso over his eyes.
"Of course," Kei murmurs, and steps back, saying to Madeline, "I am sorry for your loss." He exhales. Glancing around, the Doctor is either looking for someone, or looking /out/ for something, it is entirely too hard to tell. Rather than spend too much time hanging about the widow, he bows, and finds another place to stand, waving to Joshua with a small smile, and Marcos. He slides in closer to Matilda, Tucker, and Angelique. "How is everything?" Matilda is particularly regarded.
Eugenia arches a golden eyebrow at the Sheriff in silent challenge. She's almost grinning. "Oh?"
Matilda brightens at Kei's approach, replying to Tucker with, "Merci beaucoup, Monsieur Marshal. It is always a pleasure to see you, no matter the occasion." Clasping her hands behind her back again, Matilda lowers her voice to admit to the trio, "I thought the song would be a nice touch."
Barron gives a nod to Eugenia, rapidly burning through this cigarette of his.
Marshal Tucker's eyes widen a bit in surprise at Matilda, "That was you singing? I thought an angel had come down from heaven just to honor the death of such a good man." William smirks and flashes Matlida a wink, "Course, maybe I wasn't wrong after all." As Kei approaches, he turns to face the man. His eyes narrow to a squint as if he is staring up to the sun. He says, with a good amount of humor, "What happened to you Kei, put to much Lye in the wash again?"
As if the eldest son of the new generations of Mexicans in town has led the charge, the rest soon follow, working their way through the crowd over to where Madeline stands. Ylsa, Tess, Miguel and the child Isabel are immediately apparent, and there's a good chance Kevin is in the wings somewhere. Ylsa and Tess will both offer hugs to Madeline, while Miguel will stand to the side and study the woman intently, murmur his sorrows lowly.
Angelique nods to Kei, flashing him a smile. Unable to hide a sudden bout of amusement, but seriously trying to. "Good day, Doctor Kei. I see that you are somewhat calmer now." She pauses, and then adds. "I've not heard words such as those coming from your lips in... well, in a long time."
Madeline smiles at Marcos and nods. "I know," she tells him, and watches him lead Joshua off. Joshua will walk. He doesn't say anything, but he shakes his head very seriously when asked about being carried. Madeline summons another smile, and a murmur of thanks for Kei, and then watches the Mendez crew wend their way toward her. Ylsa and Tess are both given hugs, despite what the LAC might think, and dab at her eyes and nose with her handkerchief again.
Kei gives Tucker a mockly-dark look. "Both Chinese and British wear white to funerals," he answers, trying to sound as curmudgeonly as possible. He does sound curmudgeonly when he mumbles at Angelique, "There are appropriate times to
discuss certain things. I obviously chose poorly. So are you." He sighs to Matilda, smiling wanly. "I missed your singing? Now I am sad I was not at the funeral. But...I had an emergency out at one of the homesteads."
Matilda touches the doctor's arm even as she blushes at his words and those of the Marshal. She lowers her chin and smiles. "You did not miss much, truly. I hid in the stairwell."
Eugenia mutters to Barron, "... I..."
Theo drifts through the crowd, more studying the faces around and sometimes exchanging nods with them, then stopping for any real or significant conversation. Various persons are noted, some with more curiosity than others.
Barron smiles at Eugenia and nods, "Yes." he replies to her. Softer, "Don't forget to get goin' 'fore it gets dark."
Eugenia gives Barron a wry smile. "I remember, Sheriff Barron, I do," she drawls in amusement. "Since I walked to town, perhaps I should get a move on?"
And there is Naco, the tallest and most refined-looking of the Mexicans (not counting Tess who is an honorary Mexican, despite her blond hair and blue eyes). He returns, apparently as bidden, with a drink for the fussy Isabel, who has /had/ it with her clothes, and Naco joins the small party around Madeline, speaking in elegant prose, about the loss of a fine man and that Madeline is joined by the city, in sorrow. Miguel offers to take Isabel, while Ylsa tries to distract the child with drink. Cogs of a well-oiled, or maybe well-worn, machine, these people.
William chuckles at Kei, then shakes his head. He won't badger the poor man further by pointing out that we are neither in China nor are we in Britain. He comments, "Would have been nice to have you there Kei, quite a few of us went up to speak, but not many of us speak as well as you do. Well, when your in one of your sermonizing moods that is." He glances around, giving Matilda a questioning look, wondering why she chose to hide in the stairwell. No one gets chastised at a funeral unless they are a drunken priest.
Barron nods, "You should," he says seriously. "Ah can git the deputy to escort you back, or ah'd prefer to it mahself." he tells her.
Kei very gently slips away from Matilda's touch, smiling to her with great gentility and politeness. "Just as the Marshall said: the voice of an angel might ceom from a stairwell, and it is still something to be missed." To Tucker, he raises an eyebrow. "Myself?" He points to himself, and looks very humble, chuckling. "Mo-ah! No no. I should have been positively tongue-tied. I am...not so comfortable at funerals. I trust it went well, as far as these things go?"
Eugenia says, "That really -tall- and -handsome- deputy? Is that the one you mean, Sheriff?" Genie struggles to keep her face straight as she takes the man's arm again. "Perhaps you'd better do the walking."
Barron nods, hands moving to roll another cigarette as he walks towards the street itself. "Ah have mah horse. Y'kin ride if'n ya want and ah'll walk." he says with a grin.
Eugenia says, "Why don't we both walk and save that poor beast for your hell-bent trip back to town after I'm home? I doubt you have enough tobacco to last you all the way out to the farm."
Eugenia grins.
It's an impressive machine, well-oiled or otherwise, Madeline is forced to admit. She takes breaks from conversation with the clan to smile and thank condolence-givers for their kind words, then goes back to it.
Barron chuckles, 'You tease me," he tells Eugenia, as the pair step off the lawn after saying their pace to the wellwishers, the widow, the assembled friends of each. He continues chatting with her, as they disappear to the road. "Of course ma'am, ah keep a bag or six of tobacco in the saddlebags, 'jes in case of situations like this.."
Matilda looks rather reluctantly to Tucker and Angelique, taking a small step back after Kei takes his arm from her touch. "It is late," the girl quietly says as she looks toward her feet. "Perhaps I should go home."
Garrett, having finished his conversation with the LAC and having the untouched lemonade in hand to prove it, moves ever further away until he is out of their social gravity well. He begins to mingle with the
townsfolk, answering questions about his ride from Helena and how nice it was for the Governor to have written. He smiles to William Tucker as their eyes meet between the crowd.
Angelique smiles beatifically at Kei, not at all bothered by his chastising words. "Mademoiselle, if you don't mind - I can talk to Monsieur Quintan, now that I know your answer about the general store. Is that fine with you?"
Angelique is of course turning to Matilda, when speaking.
William gives a half hearted shrug, "It went well enough... though its not the same without the Reverend Brandt. Someone dug up some so called priest out of a saloon and brought him in. Otherwise, it was a good ceremony." What can you say? It was a funeral for a well loved man, that is as difficult an
occasion as it gets. He catches Michael Garrett's eyes from across the way. His fingers run along the brim of his hat and he nods, smiling to his old friend. They haven't had much of a chance to chat in a while, hopefully he can find time to swing by and rectify that in the near future.
Matilda's grey eyes uncertainly travel from Angelique to Kei. "If Dr. Kei does not disagree?" the young woman states with a touch of hesitance. It seems that she is turning to the Chinaman for advice after her recent spate of bad decisions.
Theo glances over at Matilda, overhearing her words, and he swings his study into the crowd to see if Matilda appears to be with anyone. Theo navigates over in that general direction, then pauses and allows himself to be drawn into some banter about a bruise that Theo still wears, that -- apparently -- this particular funeral-goer watched inflicted on Theo all too recently. From this vantage, Theo keeps an eye on Matilda.
Kei ahhs, nodding to tucker, and following the man's greeting to Garrett. He also offers a small bow by way of greeting. He is quick enough to say to Matilda, "If it is agreeable to you, I can take you...ahh., are you staying at the general store now?" He raises an eyebrow at the girl, between she and Angelique, really. He is a little hesitant -- certainly moreso than he has been in the past with her.
Matilda says, "Non! I..I thought that I might stay with you for just a few days?"
Matilda turns crimson.
"I spoke to Mademoiselle Moraeu about perhaps she wanting to work in the General Store. And I will speak to Monsieur Quintan about it, but wanted to hear if Mademoiselle even wanted to, first." Angelique explains to Kei, smiling broadly.
Finally, when the women have ceased to bab-- Er, talk to Madeline, and Naco is engaged in dealing with his own wife, in some such matter that would happen to bother Ylsa at this very moment, Miguel leans in to murmur a few indistinct words to Madeline, soft enough that only the lull of syllables can be well-heard.
Garrett raises his glass towards doctor Kei in return of the Chinaman's bow. He continues meandering around stopping for a moment to monitor the conversation between Theo and his new fans before stopping very near to where Ylsa and company are doing the
Mexican-family routine. Oddly, Garrett seems to know this routine and works himself into a position where he can converse with Ylsa, Naco, Isabel and whomever else happens to be in proximity while sipping his lemonade. His words come off in an oddly liquid
Spanish and it isn't long before Ylsa laughs at something he says.
Angelique's smile must be one of those that is kind of contagious. That, or Theo's really getting ribbed about that bruise, by this man who's had a few too many private toasts to the downed mayor. Theo has to step back suddenly, as the other man's hand snaps out in a wavering imitation of the blow that bruised Theo. This time, Theo's better, and the man's
mortally-embarrassed wife takes ahold of his arm, firmly, and with quick apologies to Theo, turns to usher her spouse away.
Kei pales. What a week this is turning out to be. "Of course." His voice cracks. How much worse can it get? "Why don't we get Aisin, and we can ride back to the house." Having resolve is a good idea. Having a fast horse and resolve is a better one. "You know, we should be seeing your oncle quite soon as well." He makes a point of saying that -- apparently, the information is extraordinarily important, even if casually mentioned. He inclines his head to Tucker and Angelique saying, "It was very nice speaking with you. I do hope to see both of you soon." He does offer a hand to Matilda -- that is only proper. Please say it's only proper...
Madeline's smile stays, for once. Held there by sheer force of will, as she returns Miguel's quiet words, each one spoken through that very smile.
Matilda reaches for Kei's hand, but her face falls as she considers him. "You do not have to come with me, Docteur. I can find my way and I will be safe. You have only just arrived and I am sure there are many who would speak to you."
From Miguel comes a warm chuckle and a shake of his head, while the man assembles a wounded expression on his face, returns some words that sound somewhat more easy than the last.
Kei lifts his hand genteely, and shakes it as a refusal. "No no. Mo-ah! No one is sick. No one needs to talk to me." He laughs softly. "It really is alright. I don't mind going with you. In fact...I should think it preferable." Not that he wants to bolt out of here or anything. Well, maybe he does. Opening his mouth always gets him into trouble. He begins to walk to Aisin, beckoning Matilda to follow.
"Mademoiselle, Doctor, Marshal - if you will excuse me..." Angelique says with a dazzling smile. She nods to all three and then leaves, milling about somewhat, though her destination is set on Theo Grey. "Monsieur Grey?" she asks, smiling dazzlingly. "How nice to see you."
Matilda turns a smile upon Tucker and Angelique as she follows the doctor toward his horse.
Matilda starts following Kei.
Garrett is leaning down over a small crowd of the Mexican children when there is a sudden outpouring of laughter. Garrett is holding up a small silver coin, apparently having magically appeared inside somebody's ear or in somebody else's pocket.
Somewhat amused, maybe, at having nearly been decked at a /funeral/, Theo shakes his head and looks over at Matilda's group, when he's noticed, and Miss Dumont has turned to head toward him. "Ma'am." Theo drawls in Louisiana tenor, with a tip of his hat and a straightening of his shoulders, "A sorry afternoon, but there is good company to remember a good man. How are you?"
On the verge of finding himself suddenly alone, William Tucker looks around with a bit of surprise. He offers up a shrug only for himself, then walks over towards Madeline to give his final condolences before he heads out himself.
Joshua is going to solemnly, and wordlessly, insist that Marcos have a cookie. Since Joshua is going to have a cookie. Which means that there while be a handful of cookies brought to the rest of the Mendez clan.
The Doctor gets on the horse easily, and offers his hand to Matilda. Once both are up, the little Chinaman says "Tchoo!" and the horse is off on a trot. Kei and Matilda head towards Pein's Hill, the river, and home.
If Garrett is doing magic, then Marcos will surely usher Joshua over there. He'll stoop down and whisper promises to the young boy, of what this Senor can do. "Just watch, and you will see that he can make things disappear and appear, and maybe he finds something in your ear," Then: "Senor Garrett, here -- make the coin come out of Joshua's ear."
Madeline smiles once more at Tucker, a little more warmly this time, now that the worst of the day is over, and offer him a quiet thanks again, then watch as he walks off. And agree to Miguel, "You can ask. My answer won't change."
"I am just fine, thank you Monsieur." Angelique replies to Theo, in her French accent and rather husky voice. If that voice is faked, she seems to always use it nevertheless. "Indeed a sad day - the mayor was a fine man, from what I have heard. And how are you? Recovering fully from the latest ordeal, I hope?"
Which one? Theo's smile flashes quick, if somewhat guilty, "Ordeal... You know. There's that story about an ass, falls down in a well, and the farmer decides he can't haul the thing out. It's too old anyway, and the well could be re-drilled, so he decides to bury the thing." Theo rubs his chin, studies Angelique with an expression that runs the gambit between amused and curious and maybe a few other things in there, well-hidden: "Well, so he starts throwing shovelfull after shovelfull of dirt in there and the ass starts screaming, realizing what's happening. Then," Theo dips his hat down, wide eyes coming back up to look at Angelique, "The ass goes quiet." The story is not finished, but Theo's giving Angelique a chance to respond.
Garrett's impromptu routine slows as Joshua approaches. He regards the little boy with quiet respect for a moment before squatting down to look into the little one's eyes. He sees that one hand clutches a cookie and the other a toy soldier. He thinks for a moment and then reaches out to the child, putting a hand on his shoulder and leaning close. "I don't know if you remember me, Joshua, but I've been over to see you and your family a few times. I know today's a big day for you and a lot's going on. But I want you to remember that all the people here..." He looks around. "Are here because they loved your father and we all miss him." He nods, then leans back again. "But let me give you a little advice: Don't forget that when your hands are full, you can always put something in your pockets." And with those seemingly odd words he stands up again.
Angelique doesn't understand one bit of what Theo is talking about. She smiles carefully. Is this some kind of code message she is supposed to understand? And what a strange ending to the story. "Maybe he should have shot it first so it didn't scream so much." she comments, giving Theo a rather long look, as if she wonders if he has been drinking too much - or gotten hit over the head, talking about asses. Well, of course, had it been *her* ass he was talking about, she might have had something more clever to say.
Theo chuckles, "You asked about ordeals." Theo raises one slender finger (left hand) and continues, "So the farmer keeps shoveling dirt in there, and then he is startled to find, in a few minutes, that he can hear something down there. He looks down and he sees that the ass is shaking off the dirt and stepping on it, and thus, each shovelful goes down, he takes a step up. Sure enough, he gets out of the well and trots off." Theo grins. "So, have I recovered from the ordeal," Theo touches his chin, "Or learned from it? Or both." He grins again, "Both. Yes. But at this point, I'm ready not to see a well or a shovel or dirt for a while."
Joshua watches Garrett with that same curious frown he's been wearing for most of the ceremony. Solemn little boy who watches and says nothing. He glances up at Madeline, who's watching now, of course, and all the other adults, then he takes a step and a half back, bumps into Marcos and after a moment's consideration of the older boy, leans against his leg and has another look at Garrett.
Angelique begins to smile, slowly. Her eyes glitter at Theo. "I would certainly hope not. Since I expect you to take me to dinner before that." She winks at Theo, flirting shamelessly - and at a funeral, no less! "I would take it as a personal insult if someone hindered you from doing that, and would make sure that person lived to feel my wrath."
Marcos is a smart one and he kneels down by Joshua and grins, murmurs something in his ear. "I think that the Senor Garrett has done his magic and maybe you should see if there is something new in your pockets, when you are done with your cookie." Marcos ate his. He grins up at Garrett and winks.
"I'd be an ass," Theo responds, "If I should fail to seize such an opportunity." Theo's grin merits wattage.
Garrett smiles at Joshua, but it's a smile laced with sorrow and sympathy. He hmphs softly at Marcos, giving away the punchline of his trick, then he turns back to Joshua and gives him a wink before turning away and heading towards another group of people.
And the Mexican contingency begins to fade back, back into the crowd, with Miguel being one of the last to go. His glance at Madeline might well echo Garrett's to Joshua: Sorrow, sympathy. "Adios, Senora. I must take them home." Miguel may be seen later, however, lurking about to ensure that Madeline had an escort home, and that the escort was effective. Then again, he might not be /seen/.
Marcos, however, stays with Joshua. He knows how to get home.
Angelique beams at Theo. She is childishly fond of flirting, and flirting with someone who flirts back is only
rivaled with flirting with someone who gets embarrassed. So, she's enjoying herself. "Oui, you would." Angelique purrs at Theo. No false modesty there. She nods her head, politely. "If you'll excuse me... " She leaves Theo, and walks in the direction of Madeline, putting on a suitable somber face. "Madame Randolph?" she asks quietly, stopping at a small
distance from the widow. "I am Angelique Dumont, employee of your brother in the General Store. I wish to express my deep condolences for your loss, Madame."
Long distance to Madeline: Garrett wows. I wanted to spend some time and make it really cool. But that (and the letter from the Governor) was written in the 10 minutes I had between getting home from work and the funeral starting.
Theo watches Angelique walk off with an appreciation that combines both an amused appraisal and a warm thankfulness for the distraction. Theo shakes his head, then, reaching as if to take off his hat, and run his fingers through his hair. The movement is aborted, fingers merely sliding along the hat brim, as Theo turns to ease back through the crowd and toward the fringes, near the entrance.
Something in his pockets, eh? Joshua should probably eat that cookie, then. He takes a bite, at least, though he doesn't seem in a hurry to finish it. He'll get through it eventually, but he's not going to rush. There's no sense rushing a good treat, after all.
"Take care, Miguel," she tells the Mexican, and says her goodbyes, complete with a new round of hugs for Tess and Ylsa, and watches them go. Angelique's got her attention then, and she summons a new smile. "Thank you, Miss Dumont. Thank you."
Angelique nods a little at Madeline, and smiles sympathetically. She murmurs an 'Au revoir, Madame, and thank you' and then moves to leave, passing by Christopher to let him know she is returning back to the store, with a few quietly spoken words to him.
Theo drifts off, tagging along with a larger party of LAC as they leave in a huddle.
Christopher watches the crowd thin, as people leave the reception. He takes this time to approach his sister, and perhaps
nephew if he's still around. He offers a hand to his sister's shoulder, "Heartfelt things were said, Madeline. He deserves that and more." He's not sure how Josh will act around him, this certainly hard on him. He will offer a handshake, perhaps even kneeling down for a hug to/from him, if appropriate.
Joshua is still not interested in being hugged when he can get away from it. Which he can, standing on his own two feet. He shrinks back against Marcos' leg again, watching Christopher. "He does," Madeline agrees. "I can't imagine that he'd be anything less than pleased and flattered by what was said tonight, though."
Garrett watches the last of the well-wishers leave, having managed to stay behind out of some sense of duty. He wonders what people think about him obviously waiting up on the newly widowed Madeline. He wonders if people understand that he sat in the front of the church with her just so she wouldn't feel so alone. And while he wondered, most everyone left. Now only he and Madeline and
little Joshua are left. As the last set of footsteps leave the churchyard he walks up to the two remaining Randolphs, still waving goodbye to the last LAC hanger on. He looks at Madeline, "If you will permit me, Mrs. Randolph. I'd like it if you would allow me to accompany you and Joshua to your house."
Madeline is tired. Much more weary than she looks, even. Funerals are exhausting under the best of circumstances, and these certainly weren't the best. But she manages one last smile, glances down at Joshua to take his hand, then looks up at Garrett again and nods a little. "I'd like that very much. Thank you, Mr. Garrett."
Garrett nods and smiles. "Very well then. You won't mind if my horse comes along will you?" He speaks as he moves towards the
appaloosa mare still tethered to the fence. "She's quite friendly, I assure you." Artemis, the horse in question looks more bored than anything else as he leads her part way towards the woman and the boy. "We could probably let her carry your little soldier if you wanted..." He looks down at Joshua.
Madeline can't help but smile a little more. "Of course not. We'd make poor ranchers if we were afraid of horses, wouldn't we, Joshua?" She looks down at the boy, at the mare and back. "Do you want to ride," she asks him? The boy shakes his head, though, and leans against Madeline's skirts. "We'll be fine walking," she answers for him, quietly.
Garrett nods. "Of course. After you..." He indicates the way towards the road.
Madeline leads the way with Joshua hitch-stepping along at her side. She glances back over her shoulder to say, "Thank you, again, for bringing us the governor's letter. I'm sincerely touched."
Garrett bows his head for a moment. "Well, when I explained to him why I had to leave the congressional session before it was finished he actually wrote it on the spot. After having come to him with the news about the fire and then this, I'm beginning to wonder if he thinks I shouldn't come back..." He chuckles softly at the joke. "But I must say, Mrs. Randolph. You and Joshua both handled yourselves very well back there." He looks down at the boy. "He's going to be a strong man when he's older."
"Nonsense," Madeline argues quietly. "Maddock has had hard times, that's all. It's good to know that we have a competent voice speaking for us in the governor's ear. I'm sure he values you as we do." She smiles at the boy beside her and nods agreeably. "He's going to be my hero."
Garrett nods appreciatively. "I imagine he's going to be a lot of people's hero." He exhales a deep breath and walks a little while in silence. Artemis clopping lazily beside the trio. "Will you be moving out to the ranch now? Or staying in town? Or is it too early for me to be asking these questions?"
Madeline heaves a little sigh. "We'll move to the ranch, I think. Joshua should get settled there. And I find I don't have much desire to stay where we are anymore."
Garrett nods. "I can't see why you'd stick around town to be honest. You're absolutely right. Joshua's future is out at that ranch. And that means yours too." He looks again at the blonde woman beside him. A strong appreciation for the task ahead of her in his eyes. "Needless to say if there is anything that I can do for you, bring to you, buy for you... you have but to ask. Probably of anyone in town really...but you don't have to think that I'm doing anything for you out of a sense of pity. I remember who was holding my head while the doctor was straightening my broken legs. I owe you. I won't forget that."
A lone horseman gallops through the street on some urgent errand.
Madeline smiles again. "You know the people of Maddock well. I've been offered nearly everything I can imagine already." The smile fades. "I don't want to hear about being owed. I'm not. I helped because a friend was in need and because I could. I'm just glad that I was there."
Garrett nods. "I understand. And believe me. I'm glad you were there too. Although I must say that couldn't have been my finest moment." He clears his throat quickly, as though the memory might be somewhat
embarrassing. "I'm glad your brother was gentlemanly about the whole thing." He changes the subject to a nearer pain. "That could have been much worse." The priest couldn't have been. But Christopher was OK.
"Christopher's mood changes with the weather," she says. "I'm glad that we caught him on a good day." She's silent a moment, then she laughs and covers her mouth. "I'm sorry," she says, when she's composed herself. "I can't say I'll be sorry to see that particular preacher move on, when he does."
Garrett rolls his eyes and shakes his head. "I must admit, I never thought of what it must be like to write a eulogy for someone you've never met or even heard of, and certainly not many times in a lifetime. But that must be part of a priests job. And that man has definitely been doing it for too long." He sighs. "Hopefully that's one of those memories that most people will conveniently not remember."
"I don't know. If it helps people remember Evan with a smile, I'm not sure that's a bad thing." Another few paces in silence, and she offers, "Thank you. For sitting with us. You didn't have to do that."
Garrett admits, "Well...I didn't exactly want you to be sitting alone. Honestly I didn't know if you didn't want me there. I was a little worried of what people might think." People might wonder exactly what he was wondering: Does our local representative have designs on the mayor's wife? And so strident that he is sitting with her at the funeral? No. That couldn't possibly be it...
The representative is no doubt more clever than that. After all, both of the widow's husbands have met untimely ends. Madeline makes a faintly unladylike sound and says, "Let them think what they want. They will, no matter how hard you work to turn their opinion. It was kind of you. It was nice not to be alone just then."
Garrett smiles. "Good, then I was successful..." His voice trails off for a moment, then he chuckles just once to himself as something obviously occurs to him. He looks up after a moment and slows to a stop. "Well, Mrs. Randolph. Here we are." He looks over her head to the Randolph home. "You know where I shall be should you need me..." He looks down at Joshua. "You too, soldier. If you ever need anything, you come straight to my house." He points the few houses over to his home on the corner.
Madeline smiles and nods. "We do. Thank you, again, for everything, Mr. Garrett. I hope we'll see you again. It's good to have you home." That said, she stoops to lift Joshua to her hip, then waves, and climbs the stairs to her porch.
Garrett nods. "It's always good to be here." Something odd about the word "here" in that sentence, but who knows what he could have meant? "Good evening, Mrs. Randolph." He tips his hat to her and as she turns, he waves again to Joshua, looking over her shoulder from his perch.