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.
Christopher enters the church from the doors to the west.
Christopher is followed by Angelique and JingLui.
Barron enters the church from the doors to the west.
Angelique has just entered together with Christopher and JingLui. She has an amused little smile on her lips as she looks around in the church that is quickly crowding up.
St. John enters the church from the doors to the west.
Barron makes his way towards the front, taking a seat and settling in with a grunt.
Rick hasn't yet picked out a seat, instead he stands against one wall, watching
people arrive.
St. John seems to follow the crowd, sans his son this time, and takes a seat in one of the pews.
Balthazar enters the church from the doors to the west.
Angelique is still hovering near the entrance of the church, people watching and
generally making sure she is being seen by everyone who enters as well. She smiles and nods at everyone as if she knows them.
JingLui stands behind Angelique, looking a bit terrified by the crowd.
Balthazar strides into the church, his cane rapping crisply on the boards in time to his gait, a broad and most assuredly amused smile playing about his lips.
St. John doesn't return Angelique's smile if she casts one his way...his only
concern is getting this over with. A nod is given to JingLui and Rick...a few others, before the Englishman turns his attention to the lectern to see who
will be beginning this.
Angelique suddenly spots Rick and her smile turns a tad tense and strained. She quickly looks away from him, just to face Balthazar. Her smile turns into one of affectionate amusement. "Monsieur Landry." she breathes. "Good day."
JingLui ducks her head politely toward Balthazar, wherein she promptly removes herself to sit down at a pew near the center, and away from the door.
"Ah Miss Dumont." says Balthazar in his very warmest tones, quite ignoring JingLui. He tucks his cane under one arm and bows low to press a gentlemanly bus on Angelique's hand. "I trust you are well?"
Rick looks a bit confused at Angelique's reaction, but shrugs and turns his attention to a conversation with some other towns folks.
Damien enters the church from the doors to the west.
"Mais oui, Monsieur Landry, I am well." Angelique purrs, beaming at Balthazar from his attention. "Just a tad upset over that business with the boarding house." Well, that's the understatement of the year.
Barron gets comfortable - as much as possible, and leans against his seat, hat next to him and just people watching.
Damien enters the church, taking his hat off as he does so. He surveys the pews as if looking for someone and frowns when he apparently doesn't see them. Another look towards the door as if contemplating going back outside but then he turns and heads for a pew towards the front, sitting near the aisle.
Letitia enters the church from the doors to the west.
Balthazar seems quite untroubled and has let the matter annoy him not one jot. "It is to be expected Miss Dumont, in such a small and provincial backwater."
Damien sits towards the front, near the aisle, his hat on the pew beside him saving a seat.
Letitia steps into the church and pauses to get her bearings. Spying Damien, a brilliant smile emerges upon the young woman's face and she makes her way toward him. Letitia says, "Excuse me, Mr. D'aray, but you wouldn't happen to be saving a seat for some lucky young woman, would you?"
Damien smiles, picking up his hat and rising to his feet. "Of course, Miss Taylor. Who else?"
Angelique glances towards Christopher. Is that guilt in her eyes? "Ah, well. I am not troubled by it anymore either." She turns to watch the pews. "Should we perhaps sit down?"
Balthazar nods, turning to examine the available pews, gesturing to one somewhat to the side. "After you Miss Dumont." he says, all courtly manners and soft words as he shepherds Angelique to a seat.
Letitia briefly rests her hand upon Damien's sleeve as her smile warms. She slides past him into the pew and eases down. Settling her skirts, Letitia looks over those gathered and offers nods and smiles to those she knows. "Hermione! How nice to see you," she says, lifting her hand to wave to one of the members of the LAC.
Delaware enters the church from the doors to the west.
Barron is sitting near the front, his hat near him and just quietly waiting.
Angelique follows Balthazar to the indicated pew and sits down, putting her purse and her gloves in her lap. "So, mon cher Monsieur Landry, how do /you/ fare?"
Rick was talking with a small group of townsmen, but he excuses himself to approach Delaware.
St. John remains seated in the pew he chose, his hands reaching into a pocket and pulling out a
pocket watch to inspect the time.
Gertrude arrives in the crowd, almost magically as she makes her presence known with a tray of cookies, pastries and hot steaming coffee. Seems she's been busy with the ladies, preparing refreshments. A little to the left, a little to the right. "Watch out, Joshua Simmons, this is terribly hot." The pot threatens to tip as the woman awkwardly sets her tray down on a table along the wall.
Damien grins as he settles back into the pew besides Letitia, watching her call to her friend.
Christopher entered, and took a seat at one of the middle pews almost immediately. He's been quiet, just watching those who are arriving.
Garrett enters the church from the doors to the west.
Delaware regards a few folks of interest, raising his hand in greeting to one. Spying a seat he'd like to occupy, the banker steps further within, nearly bumping into Rick. He states dryly, "Mr. Porter. What a surprise." There is a noticeable glance to the barber's left and right, to ensure himself that Miss Montgomery isn't at his elbow.
Balthazar takes a seat besides Angelique, resting his cane against the pew in front. "With the exception of my continued incarceration in this
carbuncle of a town Miss Dumont, I am quite adequate at present." he says, making no effort to lower his voice or moderate his tone. "Despite that small matter of prurient interest."
Garrett walks quietly in, removing his hat and strolling into an open seat near to the front.
Letitia wings a smile toward Gertrude, lightly waving to her as well. When Agatha enters, Letitia tames the immediate grin that threatens. The two women pass an oddly understanding look.
Gertrude catches the coffee pot before it topples, though there is a precarious moment when the entire table shakes and threatens to collapse, the enthusiastic Gertrude waving her hand to Mr. Garrett. "Mr. Garrett, Sir! Hello!"
Framingham enters the church from the doors to the west.
Madeline enters the church from the doors to the west.
Rick deftly steps back, avoiding an accident. "Evening, Mr. Clysdon." Something in the banker's tone causes Rick to take yet another step back as well, allowing the man to move on.
Everyone is still entering the church, many milling around to catch up with folks they don't get to see often. There is a noticeable lull when the former Mayor Garrett enters and then the Judge shortly behind him. There presence seems to lend to everyone starting to take a seat and look to have the meeting
proceed.
Framingham straightens his string tie as he enters and smiles to those already gathered there.
Delaware doesn't move on however, pausing beside the barber. "Quite a turn out tonight." He looks towards Damien and indeed finds Letitia. "Did you happen to see Miss Montgomery?"
Angelique flashes Balthazar her dazzle smile. "I am glad to hear that." she says and she pats Balthazar's knee. "As for prurient interest, what can we do? Except... nothing." She laughs lightly at that, amused by the whole thing. At least now. Greenbrown eyes scan the people entering, especial attention at the men. Madeline is offered a warm smile and a wave of her hand.
Garrett raises his eyes in response to the hush that follows him into the room. He turns to Framingham and understands. Very good. We can get things started quickly.
It just wouldn't be a meeting to discuss an election without Madeline present, now would it? Fortunately, for her, for the men of Maddock, and maybe for Maddock itself, Madeline's here by herself. She smiles to those who look her way, nods a little now and then, and lingers toward the back of the milling cluster.
Rick shakes his head, "No, I haven't seen her this evening. She's probably with her sister."
Balthazar also scans the new arrivals with a grey and faintly disinterested gaze. "I will be gratified when alternative lodging becomes available, given the... difficulties."
Gertrude leaves her place by the side of the refreshments when Madeline enters. Scurry, scurry, scurry, present. A wide, large teeth smile is offered to Madeline. "Mrs. Randolph, dear. I am pleased to see you would come." She turns and looks back at Agatha before returning her gaze to the new widow. "We were of course all stricken by your loss."
Framingham nods to Garrett as he walks up the church aisle. When he nears Garrett's side, he says in a low voice, "Since you are here, Mr. Garrett, would you prefer to chair the meeting or should I?"
Delaware spies Barron among the crowd, taking a step towards him before looking back at Rick with a very confused expression. "Sister?!?" The scowl is fierce. "Miss Montgomery does not have a sister." Or if she did, the banker seems to think he would know this.
Barron glances around, giving a nod to the few he knows higher up in the fragile town
hierarchy - Garrett, Framingham, the banker. He shifts, looking a bit uncomfortable.
Garrett shakes his head, deferring to the older man. "Chairing these types of meetings is your job. I wouldn't want anyone to get the idea that the territorial government was running th town." He answers in a lowered voice.
Oh god. Not the LAC. Madeline puts on a polite smile, nonetheless. "Of course. I hope you're more in sorts now. This meeting ought to set things back to rights."
Angelique's eyes flashes with sudden anger, at the mention of those difficulties. "That woman..." she seethes, curling her hands into fists and pressing them into her lap. She inhales sharply, and she actually glances towards the cross in front of the church, calming down. It won't do to swear in a church, now will it. Even Angelique has her limits. "Well, I am sure something can be worked out."
Rick gives a short laugh, "She came to the boarding house last night. She's an... interesting young woman." he glances towards the front of the church. "I think they're going to start soon, if you don't mind sitting with me I can tell you more."
A young boy, no more then nine or ten runs in from outside and down the aisle, followed by the cross sounds of his mother, "Edward Ryan James, no running in the church young man." The words are ignored and the boy veers down an aisle, tripping across Barron's legs.
"Of course," Framingham replies to Garrett. "I understand. In that case, I suppose I had best get started with the meeting." He gives Garrett a brief smile and continues up to the front of the church. He takes his place in front of the lectern and clears his throat, waiting until he has the attention of the crowd.
Letitia leans closer to Damien, murmuring something to him in a hushed tone. She quirks one eyebrow at him and impishly grins.
Barron extends a quick hand, fingers splayed out to catch the boy's chest and gently bring him back up to his feet. "Hey there, amigo." he mumbles. "Shouldn't go runnin' in church, you know." He rubs his ankle where the young man tripped.
Nothing that a few drinks didn't help, Gertrude noddles at Madeline then turns as she seems the Judge and Garrett near the front, "Ah, the meeting looks about to start. I'll talk with you more afterwards perhaps?" Without waiting for an answer the woman runs off into the crowd.
Christopher watches, with interest, as the two men decide who's to chair, and that the meeting is about to officially commence. He offers both a nod, and merely waits for things to get underway.
Damien looks at his fiancee' and grins, shaking his head slightly. He mutters to Letitia, "Actually,... Were... planning to nominate... are... couple... intend to do the same. I'm... them wouldn't... the honor."
Delaware is interested of course so he moves to follow Rick, lowering his voice as they walk. "Are you certain it's her sister?"
Balthazar nods, turning his attention to the speakers, although his interest seems far from benign.
Rick finds room for two on one of the pews, and sits. When Delaware joins him, he nods, and speaks quietly to the man.
O'Dwyer enters the church from the doors to the west.
Rick mutters to Delaware, "... see... would have reason... about... She... her... the... from... to... didn't... why.... her sister once..."
Rick whispers "I don't see that Elise would have reason to lie about it. She introduced the girl as her sister
Katherine. Seems her father sent the girl from England all the way out here to see Elise, although I didn't hear why. And Elise has only seen her sister once before."
O'Dwyer enters the church, staying toward the back.
Damien blinks in surprise. He mutters to Letitia, "... Of... in the... Auxiliary... though... be... of... me... a..."
Framingham draws in a deep breath and taps his fingers lightly on the lectern. "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for attending the meeting. We have two orders of business tonight. First, we need to hold the nominations for the position of Mayor. Second, we need to discuss the possibility of choosing a Town Council to assist the Mayor. If everyone is ready, I will officially call this Town Meeting to order." He taps his hand on the lectern. "Does anyone wish to address the meeting before we open nominations?"
Angelique does the same as Balthazar, except her expression is one of some interest. She glances occasionally towards Christopher, quick seemingly fleeting glances. But considering he is the only person except Garret and Framingham she looks at, it's clear something is up.
Edward Ryan grows wide eyed when the Sheriff keeps him from face planting. He looks over the man, eyes dropping to his gun and gapes. It isn't until he is realizing the judge is speaking and he's still standing there gaping before he says, "Canna mebbe I sits wit you?"
You realize there is nothing in that particular direction.
Letitia casts a quick wink to Damien and then apparently turns her attention to Framingham. After a moment, however, she offers one more quick murmur to Damien and hides a smile.
Barron lifts his finger to his mouth to mimic a 'shhh' and nods, 'Only if you're quiet." the older man warns, lifting the young boy to the pew next to him and getting settled in.
Delaware nods to Rick, looking pensive even while the Judge calls the meeting to order. He finally shakes his head, muttering something about 'sisters' before turning eyes forward respectfully.
Madeline finds a place to sit, folds her hands in her lap, and waits to see how things unfold.
Letitia mutters to Damien, "... hotel... as... She..."
Angelique stands up suddenly. "I have something to ask." she calls out over the pews. She puts on a pleasant smile. "I wonder if anyone can nominate someone for position of mayor?"
Damien nods at Letitia's words before turning his attention to the judge and waiting expectantly.
Agatha Hawkins leads her mousy husband into the meeting. She's a very tall, large woman, but Mr. Hawkins is thin, short, and obviously meek. Agatha might have on a dress, but it is clear she wears the pants in the family.
Garrett turns slowly to eye the woman whose patience is apparently not suited for town meetings.
Gertrude looks at the woman who speaks up and then hurries close to the approaching Agatha, she whispers over loudly, "Is that her?" Gertrude tries to stand on tip toe to get a better look.
If the judge is surprised by Angelique's question, it does not show in his expression or his voice. "In any other location," he replies, "I would say that only men of voting age could nominate candidates. However, since Maddock permits ladies to vote as well, I suppose that anyone who is of voting age may nominate a candidate. Does that answer your question?"
Edward beams at the Sheriff and settles into the pew, his elastic neck snapping round to try and find anyone of his friends who have /just got to see that he's sitting with the Sheriff/. Eat your heart out Davies. The young lad whispers loudly to Barron, "Can I vote?"
Theo enters the sanctuary from the door behind the pulpit.
O'Dwyer takes out a small pipe, and starts filling it with tobacco from a pouch.
Theo enters late, about usual for him, and remains near the back.
"Oui, it certainly does." Angelique says, exaggerating her French accent a little. "Merci, Judge Framingham." She flashes him a dazzling smile. Is about to wink too, but remembers she is in a church and instead sits down.
Agatha's version of a whisper is something along the lines of a hushed bellow. "Is that -who-, Gertrude?" she asks as she pushes her husband into a pew seat. He nervously removes his spectacles and begins to polish them. "The roof hasn't caved in yet, so she can't be that bad."
Barron again makes the finger over his mouth gesture, "Hush now." he murmurs. "Yer too young, son. But you can listen, if ya pay attention and stay quiet, otherwise you gotta wait outside."
Rick mutters to Delaware, "... you want..."
Rick whispers "Do you want a nomination?"
Gertrude says, "/Her/" Thankfully for most present, Gertrude has the presence of mind to lower her voice several notches but those closest here things like 'Amanda' and 'skivvies'. Oh yes, gossip travels quickly."
Balthazar allows his gaze to wander over to Gertrude and her gossiping companion, keen ears and a general lack of interest in the main proceedings allowing him to turn his attention to more amusing matters.....
Delaware coughs loudly then looks at Rick. He doesn't even bother to whisper. "Hell, no."
Framingham watches the audience for a few moments longer, but see no one else stand or call out. "Very well, then," he says in a businesslike tone. "Nominations are now open for the position of Mayor of the Township of Maddock. Does anyone wish to make a nomination?"
Edward begins to swing his legs, letting his heel bounce off the bottom of the pew loudly. Thump. Thump. Thump. Several others who share the bench tilt there heads and glare in Barron's direction.
Rick grins at the banker's vehemence, and whispers something else.
O'Dwyer puts a large match to the pipe, and inhales on it.
Wilona enters the church from the doors to the west.
Rick mutters to Delaware, "Would you be willing..."
Rick whispers "Would you be willing to nominate me?"
Angelique now stands up again. "I nominate Christopher Quintan." Another dazzling smile, now in the direction of Christopher. "I think he would make an excellent Mayor." She looks at Framingham and Garret. "Do you want that in writing?"
Wilona arrives is a flurry of skirts and quick drawn breaths.
O'Dwyer nearly spits his pipe out three feet, hitting whoever is in front of him with the bulb of the pipe.
Agatha fixes her steely-eyed stare upon Angelique. Good Lord, the woman could turn someone to stone and she doesn't even have snakes for hair. The old battleaxe shakes her head in disapproval of the Frenchy harlot, but then Framingham calls for nominations. Drawing herself upright, she calls in a loud blast, "I've got a nomination, Judge!"
Long distance to O'Dwyer: Delaware laughs!
Garrett half-smirks. Christopher's definitely got the hang of the political machine. Let's see if anyone else has.
Barron smiles at the young man, giving him his best glare - and pointing towards the back of the church. "Go. Now." he whispers quietly. "Now."
Dear god. That wakes Madeline up right quickly. Christopher? She sits forward a little in her pew. Someone. Anyone? Speak up.
Theo's expression isn't far off from O'Dwyers. Theo looks over at Angelique rather curiously, then. Inquiring indsa nd all that.
Delaware too, is as surprised as O'Dwyer though his form of surprise is to just raise both brows at Angelique's nomination. This is going to get really interesting. The banker looks at Rick and laughs aloud. He mutters to Rick, "Are you certain... backing your nomination,... Porter?"
Rick senses "Delaware too, is as surprised as O'Dwyer though his form of surprise is to just raise both brows at Angelique's nomination. This is going to get really interesting. The banker looks at Rick and laughs aloud. "Are you certain you want me to be backing your nomination, Mr. Porter?""
Christopher's expression doesn't change, much. He's more concerned with things than most people here likely realize. He gives a nod to the Judge, and the Territorial Representative, indicative of his acceptance of said nomination.
O'Dwyer says, "Why don't you crown him king o' the territory, why yer at it!" He obviously is referring to the Quintan. "Yer crazy!""
Balthazar doesn't trouble to stand, but his orators tones are loud and deep enough to cut through most of the chatter. "I do believe
Mr. Quintan would make an excellent Mayor." he says, an odd little smile twitching his lips. "Certainly a more adequate candidate than others."
Letitia folds her hands upon her lap, watching her fingers in 'casual distraction'. She doesn't look toward Agatha. No, not at all. She doesn't smile either. La, la, la. Judge Framingham receives a smile.
Framingham nods at Angelique's hurried nomination, and says, "Mr. Quintan has received a nomination." He looks at Agatha. "Madam, do you wish to make a nomination?"
Angelique remains standing, smiling broadly. What, with all the eyes now falling upon her, she isn't about tos it down immediately, is she. She even waves and smiles over at Agatha. And then she blinks in surprise as Balthazar also stands up and nominates Christopher. Or is he?
Speak up? Well hell ya! Several well groomed (in a manner of speaking that they appeared to have washed and kicked off the shit before coming) ranch hands in the back of the room grin at Angelique and one of the says, "I'll second her nomination! Put Christopher Quintan on the ballot."
Christopher recognizes the brogue, but doesn't respond to the squatter.
Damien glances back at O'Dwyer's outburst, for once a faint smile upon his lips as he looks towards the sheep rancher.
Rick rubs the back of his head, and returns O'Dwyer's pipe.
Theo considers nominating Thierry's horse, as a competitor. Just... To kind of even things out. Theo's hat tips down, at O'Dwyer's outburst and a hand comes up to scratch as his chin slightly. Maybe the doctor? How about, if we're going ethnic, one of those Mexicans? Theo clears his throat but doesn't say anything, looks back up when he can trust his expression.
"I do," states Agatha in her loud baritone. She straightens her shoulders and hunches forward, fixing Framingham with her steady glare. The woman draws a deep breath and then says the four words that might surprise people here, "I nominate Damien D'aray."
O'Dwyer receives his pipe, standing up and looking at the crowd. "You people are daft. He owns the river, he owns the store, now are you going make him the law as well! Crown him like an English king, why don't you!" He nods his thanks to Rick.
Damien looks back towards Framingham, still smiling as he hears his name called. He doesn't look towards Agatha because he doesn't want to see the ice that must surely be forming as certain warmer regions experience a sudden drop in temperature.
Christopher leans towards Barron, and whispers something to him.
St. John turns to look at whomever mentioned the King. He begins to open his mouth to retort, but just shakes his head, his arms crossed at his chest before he stands, "A question, if I may...what are the rules for those eligible to vote?"
"Of course the good Doctor is perhaps somewhat wiser." continues Balthazar in a lazy tone. "With his knowledge of medicine and diplomacy he would be the ideal candidate one would think. Bar the small matter of his rather dubious ethnicity...."
Towards the back, Cyrus Collins, one the Phoenix's bartenders, raises his hand to call out, "I'll second Mr. D'aray's nomination."
Wilona determines just what's going on and moves in to sit beside Madeline. When Agatha speaks up, Wilona seeks out Damien and for some reason murmurs an apology to Madeline before shouting quite boldly, "I second Damien D'aray."
Angelique turns and regards O'Dwyer with an unreadable expression on her face. "I believe the mayor is elected, n'est ce pas? So, if Monsieur Quintan becomes mayor, it is the wish of the
people of Maddock." She offers O'Dwyer a very, very sweet smile.
O'Dwyer watches Christopher talk to Barron. His Irish accent heavy, he speaks. "See! Look there. Here's where I get the door! You'll people be next!"
Better to avoid the devil you know, than the one you don't. Madeline smiles politely at Wilona as she takes her seat, but keeps her peace, for now. God alone knows what that must cost the woman.
O'Dwyer turns to Angelique. "Of course, if yeh don't be votin' fer him, he won't let you get water from the river, or buy goods from his store, or breath the bloody air he breathes."
Letitia idly arranges the ribbons on her handbag and hides a smile. Exclusive 'behind-the-scenes' hotel tours before its Grand Opening and the promise of a job for a lay-about nephew are good enough to turn Agatha Hawkins' head, Damien. Just be thankful Letitia's barbed tail is hidden by her skirt.
Barron shakes his head and returns Christopher's words with a nod. "No one's gettin' the door," he tells O'Dwyer, "As long as we keep this civil for the
lady folk present."
Delaware says aloud, "Well, what the hell." He seems very amused and is about to shout something aloud but O'Dwyer's scream draws his attention. Following the sheep herder's gaze to Barron and Christopher, he laughs some more and says, "I nominate Rick Porter."
Lew Perkins, a regular at the barber shop and saloon, looks defiantly at his wife and stands, "I nominate Rick, er, Richard Porter. The barber."
O'Dwyer nods his head sharply at Barron, and just crosses his arms.
"I'll second Rick Porter." Theo then calls out in a tenor that is well-used to the stage. It's flavored with Louisiana accent. Theo winks over at O'Dwyer.
Angelique sits down again, after giving O'Dwyer an icy glare and a murmured insult in French. The tone of her voice is clear it is an insult, however.
Letitia arches a dark, delicate eyebrow and looks back over her shoulder to Rick in amusement. She studies him for a moment as if trying to decide if he even looks like a mayor.
St. John sits back down as his question isn't answered. Shaking his head, he glances to those who have been nominated...and remains quiet.
Edward does leave, before he might over hear the Quintan's quiet words. He scuffs his way all the way out, mad to be put out by the Sheriff.
Framingham pauses as O'Dwyer shouts and the crowd responds to him. Finally, he pounds his hand on the lectern and says, "Order! Please come to order! There has been a nomination and second for Mr. Quintan and Mr. D'aray. Are there any further nominations?"
Matilda enters the church from the doors to the west.
A miner near St. John notices no one's bothered to answer him and being the conversationalist that he is, he answers briefly. "Gotta own some land or pay some taxes here, one way or another."
Matilda hesitantly enters the church after hearing the sound of raised voices inside.
Theo stands over here in the back, Matilda, of a crowded room. You can stand over next to him, if you want Matilda. And if you nominate Thierry for mayor, Theo will have to kill you.... The youth turns and smiles at Matilda, again, tipping his hat at the young woman.
St. John glances to the miner and offers a nod, "I see...thank you." Still a little vague, but he can at least go by that.
Gertrude is so helpful, she raises her hand to the Judge, "Yoooo Hoooo, Judge. Mr. Porter has also been nominated." She then glares at Agatha, lowering her voice a little. "Mr. D'aray?" Really, she's surprised.
O'Dwyer looks at the miner. "That's not all who can vote, me friend. You come talk ta me later. We'll put this rich gentleman in his place."
Balthazar chuckles to himself at the two ring circus, rising from his seat and proffering
a bow to Angelique. "I fear this is less amusing than I had hoped Miss Dumont." he says softly. "If you would excuse me, I shall take my leave."
Agatha firmly nods to Gertrude. It seems that she is immovably ensconced on the D'aray bandwagon. The large woman finally eases into a seat, the pew beneath her creaking.
Framingham looks at Gertrude in surprise. "Pardon me, Madam, was there a nomination for Mr. Porter? In the confusion, I did not hear one. Would the person who made the nomination, please restate it?"
O'Dwyer says, "Twas the banker, Judge.""
Angelique pouts a little, eyeing Balthazar. "Abandoning me..." she says chidingly, but her eyes sparkle with amusement. "I do hope I can see you soon?" she speaks in hushed tones.
Matilda looks sidelong at Theo, her expression clearly uncertain and slightly distrustful. The girl inclines her head to the youth, but then she looks over the crowd to seek others she might know.
Lew Perkins stands up again, "Me too, sir. I nominated Porter too." He hastily sits down again.
Delaware indeed repeats himself, "I nominated Mr. Porter." He turns and pins his gaze on the young Grey. "As did Mr. Grey I believe."
JingLui looks around, confused and lost in all the whispers and mutters and nominations. She looks visibly relieved when Balthazar stands to leave.
Theo smiles at Delaware, then the judge: a brilliant, glittering smile from the fellow who failed to take off his hat inside the church.
Balthazar smiles, proffering one pale hand to Angelique even as he plucks his cane from its resting place. "I am always gratified and honoured to have your company Miss Dumont, always."
Gertrude follows Agatha's departure with a sour expression and then turns to grasp a cookie from the refreshment table. Munch, munch.
Rick smiles slightly. It *has* been rather noisy in here.
O'Dwyer moves aside from the door as Balthazar makes his way to it, with a small comment to the people around him. "Money comin' through. Yer all bow yer heads to it."
Barron rubs his face, actually pats his pockets for the fixing for a cigarette before he catches himself, and just forces a small smile to his face.
"Thank you," Framingham replies, sighing in relief as the room quiets a little. "Then there are three nominees. Mr. Porter is added to the list. Did I miss any other nominations? Are there any others who wish to make a nomination?"
Matilda hesitates again, when she hears O'Dwyer grousing. However, that doesn't stop the young woman from making her way to the Irishman's side. Matilda stands there near to him, clasping her hands and quietly watching the proceedings.
"Actually - I will also leave. I have done what I came here for." Angelique says and she stands up, and steps away from the pew, walking towards the exit. She stops and regards O'Dwyer. "Say. Are you the sheep farmer?" she wonders with sweetness in her voice. "It must be nice to have so many warm and wooly friends to keep you company at dark nights..." Angelique's tone is deceptively innocent. But the implications are obvious.
Wilona turns to Madeline and takes the lull in the meeting to inquire of her, She mutters to Madeline, "Know your brother was... to want to be..."
O'Dwyer smiles at the woman. "I work for a livin', so I'm particular about who I bugger, ma'am. Unlike others, now."
Garrett furrows his brows and turns to look at Christopher after Angelique's comments. Although why he does so is not readily apparent.
Balthazar accompanies Angelique to the door, and at O'Dwyer's sarcastic manner he simply smiles, dipping into a vest pocket and sending a shiny quarter spinning to land at the mans feet. "At last, a man with a true understanding of the nature of things." His good humour lasts only until the second comment slips out of his mouth, his eyes narrowing and boring into the fellow as he steps out of the church.
Balthazar saunters off towards the roadway.
Matilda's mouth purses and her expression very quickly darkens at the exchange between O'Dwyer and Angelique. She looks between the two and then settles her eyes upon Angelique to comment in French, "<You are both my friends. Please do not cause trouble with him? I would prefer not to choose.>"
Catching the exchange between Angelique and O'Dwyer, Theo's hat dips down again and his arms cross across his stomach. He takes a step back, so that a shoulder edges up against a wall, and there shakes, slightly.
Framingham frowns briefly at the confrontation by the doorway, then turns to address the crowd once more. "This is the last call for nominations. Does anyone else wish to nominate a candidate for Mayor?"
O'Dwyer seems amused he's annoyed Angelique and Balthazar. He turns to Matilda, ignoring the quarter, while she speaks French. He removes his kepi and smiles gently to Matilda.
Angelique is, for a moment, at a loss for words, staring at O'Dwyer. She opens her mouth to reply something, but closes it again from Matilda's words, looking at the young woman. She sighs and turns to O'Dwyer again. "Monsieur, my apologies." she murmurs, smiling faintly.
Barron begins rolling a cigarette. It looks like he's frowning, but his lips are kept tight, his gaze down on his hands as he moves through the
familiar motions.
Madeline, eyes narrowed, watches the confrontation, almost as if she hasn't heard Wilona's question. She has, however, and holds up a finger before calling, "It looks to me like the nominations have all been made, Judge Framingham."
O'Dwyer looks at Angelique. "Me apologies, as well. What I have against your candidate is not personal."
Wilona shifts in her seat, keeping her attention split between the proceedings and Madeline. She murmurs, "I'm curious about this council." She cranes her head around trying to find Mrs. Brandt, but the woman is oddly absent. "I'd bet Samantha would run for something if she wasn't already burdened with a new babe."
Madeline then lowers her voice and leans sideways to answer Wilona's question. She mutters to Wilona, "... had,... have nominated myself." And we know how that would have turned out.
When the apologies are made, Matilda's shoulders relax and she manages a small smile for both Angelique and O'Dwyer. "Merci beaucoup to both of you. We will speak another time, oui? And I will make introductions."
Barron calls out, "I nominate the good marshal." he calls out, licking his cigarette and sealing it with a roll of his fingertips. "Marshal Tucker." The cigarette goes into a pocket.
O'Dwyer says, "Eh, Matilda darlin', I don't think we move in the same circles now." He turns back to the nominating process."
Angelique keeps her tone low, not disturbing the proceedings in the front any more. She offers O'Dwyer another faint smile. Not personal? Hmm... She leans closer and whisper something to O'Dwyer, and then takes a step back, smiling warmly at Matilda. Genuine warmth. "Oui, another time. I must leave now. Au revoir."
"Very well," Framingham says with a nod at Madeline's words. "Then let us move on to the second topic of conversation. I would like to...he pauses at Barron's words. "You are nominating the Marshal for Mayor?"
St. John stands this time, and quietly begins to make his way to the door as well. When asked why he's leaving, a murmured reply about his son is given. Glancing back at the others only once, he moves to step outside.
Angelique turns to look out over the crowd one last time before she steps out.
Wilona laughs at Madeline and states, "I'd have voted for you." The sudden murmurs in the room, not to mention some who seem to be looking right at Wilona cause the woman to look up sharply. What did she miss? The Marshal? For Mayor? Can he do that?
Christopher isn't surprised, but looks to the Judge, and Territorial Representative. "Your Hounour? Would his position of US Marshall
preclude him from being an elected official in town?"
Matilda warmly grins to Angelique before she is distracted by Barron's nomination. In surprise, the girl blurts out, "I second," shooting up a hand. When she realizes what she's done, she flushes scarlet.
Barron nods his head shortly, settling back into his seat. "Sure am." he replies. "The man's been darn near forever, he loves this town more'n jes' 'bout anyone ah can think of, and ah can't think of any ulterior motives anyone would think of 'em havin'. He's concentrated here for so long, why not make it stick and help lead the town now that new leadership is needed." he calls out, voice strong.
O'Dwyer shakes his head as Quintan says what he does.
Damien glances at Barron as he speaks his piece and then looks over at Wilona with a speculative look before his gaze slides back towards the front.
Framingham considers Christopher's words for a moment. "He would probably have to resign his position as Marshal if he accepted the position of Mayor. I doubt if he would want that." He glances over the heads of the audience to see if Tucker is present.
Garrett nods in concurrence with the judge's opinion of the legality of Tucker running for office.
Gertrude glances at Agatha triumphantly and stands, "I second Marshal Tucker's nomination." Poor man, he's not even here to be aware of it.
All better now, Theo notes that Angelique is gone, and Matilda's seconded the nomination that Barron justifies. Oooh. That makes it interesting, with Quintan's question valid. Theo resettles against the wall, turning back to watching, though he does center a fair amount of attention on Matilda and O'Dwyer.
Rick looks around for Tucker, realizes the man isn't here, and looks instead at Wilona, to see what *she* thinks.
Christopher nods at the answer, satisfied.
Agatha sniffs and turns back to look balefully at Gertrude. Ha! See? The man can't legally hold office. And he's not even -here-. The woman folds her arms beneath her massive breasts and huffs.
O'Dwyer looks at Christopher, unsatisfied.
Barron replies, "Ah gave up being a Texas Ranger on account'a mah skills were needed here rather then there. Ah believe if asked, the Marshal would do the same. He knows he can help. And his mayorship wouldn't be shouted at like," he waves a hand. "Some of the nominees here. If nothin' else, it gives a good group'a men to choose from, right?"
Everyone keeps looking at Wilona, if she could melt into the pew behind Madeline she just might. But, since she cannot she lifts her chin and stares back at the curious looks. Course she wouldn't mind this to be something to happen, Mayor's a less dangerous job then Marshal and a hell of a lot less dangerous then being Mr. Madeline.
"Well, we can put Will Tucker on the list of nominees for now," Framingham says finally, "It will be up to him to decide whether to accept the nomination. I think he will be gratified to see that he is so well regarded in town no matter what decision he makes. In any case, shall we move on now to the second topic or are there further nominations forthcoming?"
Matilda lowers her hand and melts back by O'Dwyer. The young woman looks as if she might be considering hiding behind him the next time she wants to make an outburst.
Thierry enters the church from the doors to the west.
Framingham waits a moment longer and then nods. "Very well. I would like to propose that the Maddock Town Charter be amended to provide for a Town Council to be chosen to assist the Mayor. I would like to hear your thoughts on the proposal and the number of men who should hold Council seats. I think four would be a good number, with the Mayor as the fifth member and leader of the Council."
Theo loiters in the back of a packed church, where judge Framingham presides.
Garrett stands. "If I may, your honor."
O'Dwyer raises his hand, with his pipe in it.
Delaware perks up now, very interested in this little part of the meeting. Four indeed, another man on the ballot and we could have the Mayor and his runner up court. *cough*
Madeline sits up a little straighter in her pew, glances sidelong at Wilona, and clears her throat. "If I m -- I'll wait." Isn't she polite?
"Of course, Mr. Garret." Framingham says, "You can step forward and take the floor up here if you would like."
Thierry scoots in, late.
Matilda stands at the back with O'Dwyer, oddly enough, having allied with him rather than standing in no man's land with the unfriendly Theo.
O'Dwyer looks back at Matilda, giving here a soft smile, but then back at the Judge.
Garrett walks to the podium. "I have given this matter some thought. And seeing as how it will be up to the new mayor to enact this change, I am surely addressing the right audience. I believe that a town council is a good idea. A council of five would allow only three to make any decision that needed to be made, and would prevent a single man from doing anything out of hand without a check in place."
Christopher nods, in agreement with Garrett. Seems the idea is something he most assuredly concurs with.
O'Dwyer lowers his hand. "Hear hear! Up with Republicanism!"
Garrett puts a hand on the podium. "However, I would call upon the mayor to be not selected by the people, as has been previously done, but rather chosen by the council from among them. So the mayor would really be nothing more than a
council member, but he would be the one who would preside over meetings and act as a figurehead for the town."
Letitia smiles up to the podium toward Garrett, glancing once to Damien. At the Territorial Representative's suggestion, she arches an imperious eyebrow and looks thoughtful.
The miners in the back begin an uproar of conversation. Not elect the mayor? Confused by what Garrett proposes there is a small riot of conversation brewing among them.
Garrett continues. "This way we don't have to worry about what happens when the mayor is unavailable. Any decision can be made by three
council members acting in concert." He smiles, nods to the judge. "Thank you, people of Maddock, for your time and careful consideration on this matter."
Garrett steps down from the podium and retakes his seat.
Madeline puts up her hand again.
Barron considers, tilting his head and raises his hand carefully.
"You mean the man's nothing but a puppet then, for these council members? No real authority on his own?"
Damien strokes his beard thoughtfully, his expression a schooled neutrality, as he considers Garrett's suggestion.
"An interesting proposal," Framingham says thoughtfully to Garrett's words. When the commotion starts among the miners, he bangs his hand on the lectern. "Order, please! Thanks you, Mr. Garrett." He gestures toward Madeline. "Mrs. Randolph and then Mr. Barron."
Letitia mutters to Damien, "You... on... council... you..."
Delaware listens carefully, one ear trained on the miners' conversation behind him and the proposed new council. He hold his question however, waiting to see what the others will ask.
Garrett stands again and addresses Barron. "No no. He would *be* a council member. With all the rights and
privileges so granted. He would preside over the council meetings. We elect the council, then the council chooses one among them to be the mayor."
O'Dwyer turns back to the miners. "Now, it might be confusing, but listen here. No one man can tell what people are goin' to do. There's still bein' a mayor, but he can't decide up on his own that people have to pay tax, or that miners aren't 'llowed into town. "
O'Dwyer says, "Republicanism." He smiles, spreading his hands. "People get together, and decide what's roight. Not whoever's jes got the most power, because he was born with it.""
Framingham pounds his hand on the lectern. "If you please! Mrs. Randolph has the floor. Mrs. Randolph, would you like to step forward?"
Wilona turns and murmurs to Madeline, "Five men? To work together in decision making?" She looks to the heavens as if divining guidance. "I really don't see it happening." She tsks softly, but waits to see what will come of the conversations.
Damien shakes his head slightly before leaning towards Letitia to speak to her softly. He mutters to Letitia, "... Imagine if... were... of... see either... them voting for... as..."
Madeline climbs to her feet, takes a moment to glance around at various faces, and clears her throat again. "I'm well aware that this is going to be an unpopular suggestion, but I intend to make it nonetheless. If we're going to have a council elected to represent the people of Maddock, and that council will in turn elect one of it's own to preside over the town, then I respectfully insist," not request, "that one of the council be a woman. So that the women's voices are not overlooked or discounted in matters of Maddock's concerns."
Matilda crosses her arms across her chest. She wears an uncertain expression that testifies to her current level of confusion. A longing glance is directed to the door.
Theo has been nothing but friendly, Matilda. Complete with hat-tipping and smiles.
A cheer from the ladies in the room is thunderously loud. Samantha Brandt would be proud!
Delaware lifts one hand, making his presence known.
O'Dwyer turns back to the front, as the suffrage contingent makes their presence heard.
Miguel enters the sanctuary from the door behind the pulpit.
One of the ranch hands mutters, shaking his head, "Hell, why not allow the Mick and that Chinc Doctor run, too?" He'd spit, but he is in the house of God.
JingLui catches a that last bit of talk, a woman council member? She looks surprised, women really *can* do anything in America.
Even Letitia applauds that idea, sitting up in her seat to look toward Madeline.
"Thank you, Mrs. Randolph," Framingham replies, once the noise from the ladies has died down. There is no hint in his voice that he finds the suggestion preposterous. His wife Martha would be proud of him for his restraint. "I believe that Mr. Barron would like to speak next and then Mr. Delaware."
Gertrude watches the Judge, she's curious to gauge his reaction.
Miguel enters, without the usual assembly of wife/sister/children/brother-in-law that tend to accompany him to public functions. He arrives alone, and giving a long and sidelong look at the miners, with an unreadable expression, situates himself on the opposite side of that contingency. Miguel looks at the rest of groups, then gives a respectful nod to Judge Framingham, as well as a quick smile in that direction.
O'Dwyer looks at the rancher. "And the same to you, you poor excuse for a hangmen's gibbet. I was fighting for America when you were a notion in your father's eye, as he went into the whorehouse."
Barron clears his throat, and rises to his feet. "Alright. Lissen," he says in his deep voice, carrying weel. A pause as he stuffs his hands into his jean's pockets. "Here's the way ah reckon. If'n this is the way it's done...it's gotta be done right. Ah say ya have four folks elected by those votin'. And one of 'em's gotta be a woman. And then ya got the sheriff on it, and ya got the water engineer, and ya got the water engineer. That way ya got yer science folk, ya got the women covered and people git to elect their representation, and ya got the sheriff there so the law is kept in mind, rather then the sheriff answerin' to a group of folk - that jes' plain don't work, y'see." He sits back down.
Christopher adds his hand to those raising them.
Matilda reaches over to touch O'Dwyer's forearm. When he speaks of the whorehouse, she almost pulls away again. She mutters to O'Dwyer, "Monsieur?... you would not... such... such attentions, oui?... yourself... when you are... above..."
"Thank you, Mr. Barron," Framingham says, giving O'Dwyer a dark look at the man's latest outburst. "Mr. Delaware?"
O'Dwyer looks over at Matilda, and nods. "Eh. You be right."
Framingham nods when he sees Christopher's hand. "Mr. Delaware and then Mr. Quintan."
Upon spying Wilona, Miguel begins to work his way through the group, with murmured pardons, murmured pleases and murmured excuses, until he's gotten a seat near her. "Senora. What is it that they talk of, now?" Miguel asks in an undertone.
The comment to the rancher, was actually to the rang hand who said something about the Chinaman and the Mick. Sorry for the confusion.
O'Dwyer notes the editorial comment above was me.
Delaware stands up, straightening his jacket. "Thank you, Judge." He looks around and then nods to Barron, "Seems to me with the count of people the Sheriff is rattling off, we got ourself a small army, not a council. Though, respectfully I think the Sheriff should be involved in some manner." Clearing his throat the banker continues, "Also seems to me this isn't something we can ratify in the here and now." Not unlike the water issue, "Perhaps we need to put an open vote to the town next week to choose Mayor vs Council? We might also allow them to choose the points of council charter as well. For example, are all these men to be paid and if so from which funds." He shrugs, moving to sit. "Seems the idea has been received, and even been given some thought. Question is, what needs to be done to make it happen.
Garrett sighs and raises his hand.
"Thank you, Mr. Delaware," Framingham says, still keeping his expression neutral. "Now, Mr. Quintan and then Representative Garrett."
Christopher stands, and offers "I give the floor to the Territorial Representative, for now."
Framingham nods. "As you wish. Mr. Garrett?"
Wilona looks up at the familiar voice and smiles, moving aside to that Miguel might move to sit. She whispers in a loud voice, "First it was to set the names to ballot for the Mayor, however they're now discussing electing 5 leaders, not one." This really is something Wilona can't fathom well, but she does like the idea of a woman among the five, so long as it isn't Agatha.
Garrett stands and begins the education in Government. "Thank you, Mr. Quintan. First: To Mr. Barron's suggestion: The office of Sheriff is appointed by the mayor under the current charter. Therefore in order to have a seat on the council, you would have to abandon your post as Sherrif. It would be like appointing yourself a job. Second: To Mr. Barron and Mrs. Randolph's assertion that one person on the council should be female. That flies in the very face of democracy." He frowns and looks a little disappointed. "When you have rules that govern choice, you are leaving Democracy behind. If it is the will of the people that a woman should be on the council or even Mayor in her own right, then kindly allow the people to tell you so through the ballot box. Third: To the general idea that we're making decisions tonight or anytime prior to the elections. I *believe*, and the judge can correct me if I'm wrong, that we can do NOTHING to change the government in Maddock at this time. Changing the makeup of the town leadership would require changing the Charter. And changing the Charter must begin with a proposal from the mayor. So what we are having tonight is a discussion of what we, the people of Maddock, want from our mayor, and who that mayor might be." He smiles at the people he addressed. "Thank you for your time."
Matilda contemplates speaking again to O'Dwyer, but one look at him urges her to wait. He takes a great interest in government, so she will hold her questions until later.
O'Dwyer glances over to Matilda, but frowns as Garrett speaks his mind.
Gertrude isn't about to wait for her bloody turn, "So you're saying we still elect a mayor, and once we do, we then ask him to write a charter that will give his sole authority to 4 other men /or/ women as well?" She doesn't wholly seem to believe that will happen, "In other words, we got to have a mayor before we can change it?" There is a conspiring thought there and she says, "Couldn't Madeline be acting mayor?"
Theo glances up and studies the walls for a while, then looks at the decor at the front of the place, then he looks at hats and hair-dos, and then he checks out the vicinity of a mother trying to hush a complaining child. Then Theo looks over to the door and -- hey! -- he brightens and makes a gesture intended to attract Thierry's attention, to the man.
Letitia frowns at the very thought, scowling toward Gertrude. Agatha, however, does it better from her place in the pews. No, no, no. Elect a mayor!
Garrett stands again to address the question directed at him. "Quite simply: Yes. That is precisely what I am saying. And it is something that *you* the voting members of the town should take into consideration when electing a mayor."
Except that women can't vote, can they?
Yes, they can.
Samantha Brandt saw to it years ago. Local Charter.
O'Dwyer says, "So, basically, what you are saying, Mr.Garret, is that the only way we don't have a mayor is if the mayor decides to give up power. How can you think someone would do that?"
Framingham is silent for a moment after Garrett speaks. Finally, he says, "I have not studied that portion of the Town Charter, but I will assume that Representative Garrett is correct. But we can at least decide upon an idea to present to the Mayor. Mr. Quintan did you wish to speak?"
Thierry bobs his head at Theo, and starts the slow process of edging over thataway.
Matilda Does Not look at Thierry. At least that is the plan. As O'Dwyer trades words with the judge, she sneaks a glance toward the man who was once her intended husband.
Christopher calmly waits for his turn, seeing no other hands raised since. He nods to the Judge, and stands. "Thank you Your Honour. As /our/ Territorial
Reprehensive touched base on the items I was to mention, I believe, for now, I have no other questions, or suggestions.
Christopher says, "Other than to lend my support for a council over a mayor. Thank you." With that, he seats himself."
Garrett raises his hand again. "Your honor if I may address Mr. O'Dwyer's question..."
"Thank you, Mr. Quintan." Framingham turns to Garrett. "Of course, sir. Please take the floor."
O'Dwyer says, "Eh. No wonder he agrees to a council. The territory's not going to let it happen anyway." He turns, kind of surprised that Garrett knows his name."
Barron replies, "Alright, let's ask here and now then. Of those that were nominated -e xcepting the Marshal who ain't heah - how many of ya will stand up right now in front of us all and promise to elect a council if that's what we want, and be a figurehead. Huh?"
Christopher looks to the Judge, a raised eyebrow at O'Dwyer's latest comment. "Rules of Order, Your Hounour?"
Framingham pounds his hand on the lectern. "Please, Mr. Barron. That is a fair question and one rightfully asked, but wait a moment. Mr. Garrett has the floor."
Wilona slips out, almost unnoticed.
O'Dwyer twists his mouth into a grin, but doesn't say anything. He sees where Matilda is, and then looks around for her uncle.
Theo leans over to Thierry, to fill him in: He mutters to Thierry, "... there,... himself... and that man that... around... The... objected,... and declared... Malvolio... or he'd take... rights to... And, someone... nominated... owner that... were... keep... of... --... to... wages... --... a... bet.... nominated... Marshal.... they're... a... that evidently... because... to propose it,... I'm... The... at... and... noticed... Miss Moreau... to..."
Christopher raises his hand, once again, awaiting to hear from Garrett, once again.
Thierry bends his head to listen to Theo, an expression of growing bemusement on his face. Dang if he shouldn't have been here earlier.
JingLui stands and quietly makes her way to the door, nodding briefly to Matilda as she slips out the door.
Framingham nods to Christopher to acknowledge seeing his hand, but waits for Garrett to speak.
Miguel noticed Wilona's leaving. Heck, he even stood up to let her by and touched her lightly on the shoulder in farewell, with something spoken in quiet Spanish, to her. But he resettles himself, then, and turns his attention back to the volley of questions.
Garrett stands, scowling at Barron's unrecognized outburst. "What I am saying is that *you* people get to decide who is mayor. And if *you* people want a council, you'd better bloody well find out who is in favor of it and elect them. It's *your* government. But it has rules and the rules have to be followed. And given the sentiment that we have seen here tonight, if you think that anyone who *wants* to be mayor is going to come out against a council idea, you're insane. You control who gets the election with your vote. You." He looks at Agatha again here as well. "Yes, all of you. And if it so happens that you are lied to by someone seeking office, then you have a way to oust them from office and put in someone you like."
Matilda could have sworn that she heard her name leave Theo's lips. She peers in the youth's direction while her face reddens, but then she quickly faces front again and stands as tall and straight as she is able. Her uncle is nowhere to be seen.
Framingham nods at Garrett's words. "Yes, indeed. Mr. Quintan, did you wish to speak now?"
Thierry stares at Garrett for a moment, before covering his mouth, to hide the grin. He shakes his head at this.
O'Dwyer nods at what Mr. Garret says.
Theo follows Thierry's glance, He mutters to Thierry, "/That/... Territorial... He's the one... you... did... for... Moreau... her... strong... much... a..." That last is spoken with no real rancor, just mentioning.
Theo mentioned you again, Matilda. Must be, that you're one of Theo's favorite topics.
Moreau. There it is again. Matilda takes a small sidestep closer to O'Dwyer and peers around him toward Thierry and Theo as she tries to figure out what they are saying. The girl's face is rather forlorn.
Thierry nods as he listens, then replies mildly, He mutters to Theo, "... I... was... for... of... startles me is... sheer... his... the... here."
Christopher nods, and stands, looking to Barron. "Sheriff, you asked of those of us here, that were nominated, would "promise to elect a council if that's what we want, and be a figurehead." He nods, "I will do that, and go one further, if elected Mayor. My first order of business will be to charter a 5 man, er, person, elected council, as we have discussed here tonight. And by going one better, I will sign a legal and binding agreement that the Judge himself can draw up, holding me, if elected to do as I have just offered. One might wonder why I want a council, rather than our traditional Mayor? My main reason is that I've been back for just shy of a year now, and in that entire time, was unable to once meet with Evan Randolph on some issues of business." He looks to his sister, an apologetic smile to her. "If there had been 4 others at that time, my issues would have been resolved. It's a sad example, and Evan was an excellent mayor, but he was not able to be available during an important rebuilding period of this town's history." With that, he nods to Framingham, "Thank you, Your Honour," and offers the sheriff a nod, as well, then takes his seat once again.
Damien listens to Christopher and then looks back to the judge and holds up his hand to be recognized.
Framingham nods slowly at Christopher's words. "Thank you, Mr. Quintan. Mr. D'aray, did you wish to speak on this topic?"
Theo is silent for a few moments, then looks around again, perhaps more critically before speaking back: He mutters to Thierry, "... missed... part about... woman being on... --... and... that... mayor merely... elected... the... persons, and... Perhaps... suited... Angelo,... who... rules... absolute, until he... confronted... earlier..."
Damien stands with a nod for Judge Framingham before turning to look at the other people in the church. "While Mr. Garrett's proposal is certainly an interesting idea, I believe it is flawed. The mayor does more than just make decisions about what is good for the town. He also provides leadership and guidance. That cannot be done by committee. It is why at every level of government we have a sole leader, be he president, governor, or mayor. He may be supported by a legislature or a town council but ultimately he is the one who people look to in times of trouble for leadership. A town council is a good idea, as we've seen in the past year the mayor could certainly use some help, but ultimately we need someone who can lead the town. Not someone who has to ask others what they think should be done. Sometimes decisions have to be made decisively and the more people who are involved in the decision making process, the less decisive it's going to be. It may sound like a good idea right now but when there's Indian trouble, for example, do you want someone to lead you or someone to call a meeting so that the situation can be discussed and debated before any action is taken? I do think we should elect a town council but it's purpose should be to support the mayor and aid him in his work, not take over his responsibilities."
O'Dwyer says, "I'm not worried about the Indians.""
Framingham listens to Damien's words and then speaks up again. "Thank you, Mr. D'aray. I know that Will Tucker is not here to give his views on the matter. Is Mr. Porter here?"
Damien sits back down, glancing towards where he saw Rick earlier to see if the man is still here.
Barron nods quietly, and lifts his hand again.
Rick stands, "Yes, sir, I am."
Pfft. So much for paying attention to the meeting. Now Matilda is solely focused on the conversation between Theo and Thierry. In fact, she's so intent upon it that when O'Dwyer speaks aloud, she jumps a little in startlement.
"Very good." Framingham nods to Rick. "Would you like to speak on this topic?"
There are some topics that Madeline will get her bloomers in a bunch over. She's a woman of strong opinions. Having Evan brought up in that manner certainly twists them up a knot or two. Brow furrowed and lips pressed thin, she considers a moment or three, then climbs to her feet and heads toward the door out.
Thierry waits until there's an appropriate opening, before her mutters to Theo, He mutters to Theo, "... miss it.... bother... the... suggested..."
Miguel rises, as well, and takes another look at the miners and their apparent attitudes, before he attempts that
gauntlet to the exit.
Theo asks, then, "Like...?"
Letitia gently applauds Damien's words, but in a hushed fashion so as not to interrupt.
Rick says, "I don't have anything against a council to share the work, and so there's more folks available to talk to when someone has a problem. But I think Mr. Quintan is a mite bit hasty, swearing to immediately sign a paper saying he'll do what just some
towns folks mentioned but didn't have a chance to think out. And like Mr. D'aray said, sometimes you need one man who can act, instead of needing to round up a group to get them to say the same thing. I guess what I'm trying to say is that I wouldn't mind being a mayor who's got a council to work with, but I don't want a council to work against."
Rick nods to Framingham, Christopher, and Damien, then sits again.
Framingham draws in a deep breath. "Well, it seems that we have all been given a lot to think about this night. Does anyone else wish to speak on the topic or shall I entertain a motion to adjourn?"
Garrett raises his hand. "If there's no one else, I would like one final word on the subject."
Christopher raises his hand, again, but for now, again, nods to Garrett, a slight shrug as to who goes next, or last.
"Of course, Mr. Garrett." Framingham steps aside to give the Representative a place at the front of the room."
Madeline saunters off towards the roadway.
Miguel saunters off towards the roadway.
Matilda places a hand against O'Dwyer's forearm. She mutters to O'Dwyer, "... is... will... your camp... else?"
Thierry says quietly to Theo, "Like we can discuss elsewhere."
O'Dwyer nods to Matilda
Theo nods, then glances over at Matilda and O'Dwyer. He mutters to Thierry, "Didn't take her very long,..."
Matilda mutters to O'Dwyer, "... I... I will... That... I..."
O'Dwyer smiles softly.
Garrett stands, and turns to address the audience fully. "I would like to thank you all very much for all the thought and care that you've obviously put into this. It shows that you care about your city and the way that you are governed. It shows that you are no longer afraid to speak your minds in public and I find that heartening. And a far cry from the Maddock that I walked into 10 years ago." He pauses for a moment, remembering that Maddock. "Understand that even my words in favor of a council are just the opinion of one resident of Maddock. Despite my position as Representative, I still only have one vote to cast. Just like the rest of you. However, I would like to remind the citizens of Maddock that this is a town, not a military command. And I believe that a council is the best way to run things. A council of equals. What power they have can also be decided by amending the charter. However, I would suggest that in the event that an emergency require a snap decision and no "mayor" is around to make it, and no quorum of council members are around to decide, that any one council member should be able to make a snap decision in a time of crisis and be responsible. As a matter of fact, I would hope that in a time of crisis ANY resident of Maddock would be willing to make a decision for the best and then deal with the consequences of that decision. That has nothing to do with government. That just has to do with being a township. A family of sorts. I hope you all realize that no matter which opinion prevails, we are all in it together and that I will support the will of the voters regardless of my personal opinion. Thank you again for your time."
The Irishman's words cause Matilda's chin to lower and her hand to fall away from his arm.
Matilda mutters to O'Dwyer, "He will... oncle... disowned..."
Matilda mutters to O'Dwyer, "... staying..."
"Very nicely said, Mr. Garrett," Framingham remarks, giving the Representative a smile. "Mr. Quintan, did you wish to say anything else before we adjourn this meeting?"
Thierry glances towards Matilda himself, finally, and tips his hat, before murmuring quietly again, He mutters to Theo, "... don't... that... girl. Her uncle has all but... her..."
O'Dwyer looks back at Matilda, frowning, and then back to Garrett.
Christopher nods and stands.
Christopher offers s quick smile to the Judge, "Thank you, Your Honour. I'd simply like to reiterate the initial idea our esteemed Territorial Representative introduced earlier. I think some have lost sight of it. His idea was, and I quote, "I would call upon the mayor to be not selected by the people, as has been previously done, but rather chosen by the council from among them. So the mayor would really be nothing more than a
council member, but he would be the one who would preside over meetings and act as a figurehead for the town" He nods to the judge, and the Representative, "Much like the Vice President presides over the Senate, or perhaps more accurately, how the Speaker of the House presides over the House of Representatives. Considering his is an internally selected position, selected by his own elected peers."
Barron shakes his head, rising and beginning to make his way towards the door.
O'Dwyer raises his voice. "We vote for Congress and the President, by electors. I'm sure we can do that here!"
Theo exhales, holding his tongue this time, but not looking very convinced about anything. He glances back at Matilda and O'Dwyer, critically, before turning back to the matter at hand, which, having little to do with a Shakespearian play, has exhausted his attention span.
Garrett so very badly wants to answer O'Dwyer here and tell him about the evils of the electoral college, but refrains in the interest of getting this meeting over with so he can go home and drink some brandy.
Framingham gives Christopher a smile in return and winces at what must be O'Dwyer's 57th outburst of the night. Irishmen! Could anyone expect anything else from them? However, when he speaks, his deep voice is calm and even once again. "Unless anyone has anything further to say, I would suggest that we end the meeting for tonight and consider the matter further in private. I am certain the new Mayor, whoever he might be, will be very interested to hear any of our proposals."
Barron makes his way out of the door, quietly saying his goodbyes to those here and there, before slipping outside to light his cigarette and make his rounds of the town square.
O'Dwyer is proud of being an Irishman, who doesn't put up with tricky rules and the tyranny of the educated. He turns to Matilda. "Now, let's be goin'. I'll walk you to the Chinamans."
Barron walks off towards the roadway.
Matilda quietly answers, "Merci beaucoup, Sean." She smiles up to the man and looks over the assemblage one last time before moving to the door.
O'Dwyer hurries off towards the roadway.
Matilda follows O'Dwyer.
Theo echos that. He mutters to Thierry, "... still can't help... wonder... for just a... she's... for,... she's as... women... looking for... Just... Incestuous..." Alright. Theo stops. That was probably uncalled for.
Seeing the townspeople start to leave, Framingham slaps his hand on the lectern one last time. "I hereby declare this Town Meeting adjourned," he announces. "Thank you all very much for your attention and your participation tonight."
Rick gets up to leave, walking out with Lew Perkins, whose wife is leaving with some friends.
Thierry turns to regard Theo as he remarks, and not necessarily quietly, "That was unkind of you, Theo. I am disappointed in you." He turns away to leave as it seems tonight's entertainment has finished, and with no curtain calls.
Christopher moves to the Judge, and offers his hand. "That O'Dwyer is a man I'd like to speak to you about, when you have time, Your Honour?"
Damien rises to his feet, looking over at Letitia. "Well, this was certainly an interesting meeting. You'll have to explain about Mrs. Hawkins sometime."
Letitia rises, reaching for Damien's elbow as she warmly smiles to him. "I'd be delighted to do so, darling. Walk me to the boarding house? I'm exhausted."
Theo studies Thierry for a moment, his own features carefully caged into the same expression they showed before Thierry's words hit. He doesn't turn to leave, but remains where he is, that expression hardening as he turns to listen to whatever might be heard -- the murmur of speculation, the congratulations and Christopher's talking to the Judge.
Damien nods, offering the young woman his arm as he sidles towards the aisle. "Of course, though I'll be needing to get back to the saloon. I expect we'll be rather busy tonight. People have something to talk over after all."
Framingham shakes Christopher's hand and nods. "I would be happy to discuss him when you wish, Mr. Quintan. I have a few minutes right now, if you would like."
Thierry bobs his head at the remaining people before he slips out the door.
Letitia says, "And I have another long day at the hotel tomorrow. I'm -this- close to having them set up my bed in my suite so I can just sleep there at night."
Christopher nods, a slight smile gracing his features. "A little privacy would be warranted, Your Honour, in this case. But if you nee to mingle, I have time, as well."
Garrett stands, spinning his hat slowly in his hands. He begins to walk towards the judge, but seeing him talking to
Christopher, he decides that he will talk to the judge later. He catches his eye and nods a departing congratulations and heads back out of the church.
Damien reaches the aisle and guides Letitia down it and out the door. He chuckles at Letitia's words. "Sometimes we have to make sacrifices for the good of our businesses."
Framingham glances around the room. "I wanted to thank Representative Garrett for attending the meeting, but I can do so later," he says, giving Garrett a nod in response to the Representative's distant farewell. "The Church is not a very private place for a conversation. Perhaps we can adjourn elsewhere."
Christopher nods, "I concur. Wherever you suggest will suit me, I'm sure."
Theo shoves off the wall, finally, and heads out. That should give Thierry ample time to leave. Maybe.
Framingham thinks a moment. "We can go to my home if you would like. Mrs. Framingham is still in the East, so I cannot offer you proper hospitality, but I do have imported brandy."
Christopher nods, "An excellent idea. Please lead on." With that, he falls instep with the judge.