“Don’t give up, Daniel. Solve the robbery. Find the money that was stolen from those innocent citizens who entrusted their earnings and savings to the bank.” Iris leaned back and met his eyes. “Most of them depend on those funds for their very existence, don’t they?”
Daniel nodded. “Mrs. Cameron was in dire straits when Jackson came upon her daughter crying in their yard. Had he not stopped to help, who knows what may have become of them?”
“Fearing Father and Eric could be responsible for the robbery keeps me awake at night.” Iris’s eyes filled with tears. “What if their crimes have escalated? What if they’re robbing banks? I’ll never believe Eric capable of it. But what if Father killed poor Mr. Cameron?” she whispered.
Daniel embraced her. “That would be horrible, but it has no reflection on you. Nothing at all to do with you.” He took a step back and scrubbed his face with his hand. Every time he met with Iris, more information spilled from her lips and threw his life into further chaos. But he would endure any amount of pandemonium to solve this crime. Isn’t that what a Pinkerton agent did? Put aside his personal life and his own comfort to solve a crime?
“I…I don’t know what to say. It never occurred to me that your father and brother might be responsible for the robbery.” He recalled Milton’s description of the robbers: one older fellow and one younger. That described her father and brother perfectly. Could solving the robbery be this simple? Provided the law could track them down.
Iris stood tall, a determined expression on her face. Her hands tugged on the bottom of her jacket and she tipped her chin back. “I’m willing to help in any way I can. If Father and Eric are responsible, then I want them caught and incarcerated until they rot. Nothing less would be justifiable retribution for killing Mr. Cameron.”
Daniel met her eyes, witnessing a new fierceness in Iris he hadn’t seen before. “You’re serious.”
“I want them punished. Ask of me whatever you need and I’ll do it.”
“Then come with us to Butte and help identify your family. Prove your father and Eric were the two men who robbed the bank and killed the bank manager.”
Iris swallowed hard, wringing her hands. “Would they… still be in Butte?”
“I have no idea. But we need to start somewhere.”
“All right.” She nodded, halting her fidgeting and straightening her back. “When will we leave?”
“Tomorrow. Next day at the latest. As soon as you can arrange for someone to step in and temporarily replace you at the school. We’ll take Milton Brown with us. He’s the only witness to the crime, and he can identify the two men who robbed the bank. Hopefully, the two of you can agree the culprits were your father and brother.” Daniel rubbed her back as he spoke.
He was amazed at the courage and fortitude she’d shown, equal to his sister for starting her own business. Equal to his sister-in-law for traveling halfway across the country to escape an impossible situation and start a new life for herself. He was falling in love with Iris. The realization sent his heartbeat racing, but nothing had ever seemed so right.
“What if they’re not in Butte?”
“We question people until we discover their possible whereabouts, and then we follow them.” Daniel smiled at her. “I am very proud of you for volunteering to help.”
“Thank you. I… I hope we can solve this.”
She smiled at him and his heart skipped a beat.
“I can’t believe I’m working on this side of the law. It’s so strange for me.”
“I know. But you’re not the person you were as a child. You’re not like your family. You’re an honest and responsible person, Iris. Caring and a contributing member of society.”
“Thank you.” Iris’s eyes filled with tears. “I wanted to start fresh, put my past behind me, and become a better person by moving to Milestone. I’d hoped no one, especially you, would ever learn the shameful truth about me. Now, seeing your unwavering trust in me while I’m helping with your work… it means everything to me.”
“Then we’d better make plans for our trip.” Without thinking, Daniel kissed her lips, savoring in their softness, tasting a hint of her favorite peppermint sweet. He reached for her hands. “Hurry and arrange a substitute to teach in your place for a few days. Then pack what you’ll need.”
“All right.”
“Iris, can you ride?”
She nodded. “Sidesaddle.”
Daniel smiled at her. “Good. I’ll arrange a mount for you with Billy Turner at the livery. We’ll make better time than by stagecoach or wagon.”
“I’ll check with Mr. Cochrane about a substitute to teach for me. He’s chairman of the school committee. I can pack in half an hour.”
“Whoa. We won’t be leaving until morning, Iris.” Daniel laughed. “You’re quite eager to do this, aren’t you?”
Iris blushed clear to her hairline. “Does it show? I consider this trip a grand adventure. And I pray we’re successful at putting this horrible robbery behind us. Hopefully, the entire town can heal from the loss, and wouldn’t it be wonderful if we found the stolen money?”
“Exactly my thinking.” He pecked her cheek. She hadn’t complained about their first kiss and he regretted not kissing her lips again. There’d be time enough for kisses later. “I’ll drop by Mrs. Carter’s at seven tomorrow morning.”
“I’ll be ready and waiting.” Iris squeezed his hand. “Thank you for having so much faith in me.”
“Thank you. For agreeing to help.” He released her hand. “I’m heading over to the jailhouse to explain our plans to Sheriff Robertson. I haven’t any doubt he’ll allow Milton Brown to accompany us. Perhaps Sawyer Manning will come along as well. Less opportunity for Brown to sneak away if there are two lawmen watching him.”
“Excellent idea. See you in the morning.” Iris smiled and hurried down Main Street in the direction of the General Store.
She’d be looking for Mr. Cochrane and making her immediate request for a substitute. Daniel turned on his heel and retraced his steps to the jailhouse to secure permission from Sheriff Robertson to carry out his plan. Would their collaborative efforts bring this robbery business to a close? Could Daniel be that lucky? With Iris at his side, anything seemed possible.
Chapter 12
October 1885
Ominous gray clouds greeted the morning, fittingly matching Iris’s unsettled emotions and apprehensive thoughts. Having spilled her suspicions to Daniel and Sheriff Robertson yesterday, she found herself moments away from setting out on the most challenging adventure of her life.
After learning Iris’s absence couldn’t be avoided and hearing how concerned she was with helping to solve the bank robbery, Mr. Cochrane agreed to her requested absence. Sue Bennett, Doc’s wife and a former schoolteacher, offered to teach classes for her. Thankfully, she planned her lessons days in advance, and Sue wouldn’t have a lick of trouble stepping into her shoes. Iris handed over the key to the schoolhouse without a moment’s hesitation, promising to return at the earliest possible date. All of her plans had fallen into place and she hoped that served as a good omen.
Mrs. Carter helped her pack last night, selecting the most appropriate clothing for the trip on horseback and preparing a substantial amount of food to share with the others on their journey. Now, the two of them waited for her traveling companions to arrive.
Her landlady clasped her hands around Iris’s. “Promise you’ll send a telegraph the minute you reach Butte to let me know you’ve arrived in one piece.”
“I will.” Iris’s eyes misted. No one had ever worried about her as much as Mrs. Carter did. The kindhearted widow seemed more like a mother than a landlady.
She peeked out the kitchen window while Iris blinked to clear her vision. “Daniel just arrived. There are two other fellows with him.”
“That would be Sheriff Sawyer Manning and Milton Brown, the bank clerk who witnessed the robbery.”
Mrs. Carter nodded. “I normally wouldn�
��t permit a young lady in my care to travel all the way to Butte with three men! But two of them are lawmen, and no one could ever question the character of Daniel McLennon. You’ll be quite safe in their company, I’m sure.”
“I wouldn’t have agreed to go with them had I thought otherwise,” Iris offered, hoping to add an extra measure of assurance for Mrs. Carter. Iris grabbed her leather bag and reticule. Mrs. Carter handed her the package of assorted meat sandwiches, buttered cinnamon buns, cheese and apples she’d picked from her backyard tree awhile back. “Thank you for helping me with the packing last night. And everyone will appreciate the food.”
“Travel safely, my dear. And don’t forget that telegraph.” Mrs. Carter kissed her cheek and wrapped her in a quick embrace before taking a step back.
“Don’t worry. I’m not leaving forever. I’ll be back before you know it.”
Mrs. Carter’s eyes filled. “I’m just being silly. I worry too much, but I won’t apologize.”
“And I do appreciate it more than you know.” Iris smiled and then hurried outside.
She approached the men, suddenly overcome with a bout of uncertainty. Had she truly thought this through? No doubt Daniel and Mr. Manning were armed. What if this Mr. Brown overpowered the two lawmen, leaving her vulnerable to who knows what? Could she fend off any unwanted attentions? She shivered as several gruesome scenarios crossed her mind. But her father had taught her a few maneuvers to protect herself from unwanted attentions from a man, should something go awry during one of their ‘jobs’. Iris would protect herself as best she could should the need arise. But Daniel would never let his guard down. She had to believe he would never allow anyone to harm her.
“Good morning, gentlemen,” she stated, hoping to sound more self-assured than her timid arrival projected.
All three men touched the brims of their hats, included their hand-cuffed prisoner. She recalled someone telling her that there was some good in everyone. She supposed they were right.
“Morning, Miss Lake,” Sawyer Manning offered.
“Morning, ma’am,” Brown echoed.
“Good morning,” Daniel said softly, taking her bag and the large package of food from her.
“That will be our noon meal,” she explained.
“Thoughtful of Mrs. Carter.” Daniel dropped the reins of the horse he was leading, secured her bag behind the saddle, and stuffed the food inside the saddlebag on her horse.
“Shall we be on our way?” Mr. Manning reined in his mount that was dancing in anticipation of the trip ahead.
“This is Hermes, Iris.” Daniel patted the gelding’s neck. “He’s spry for his age and very obedient. You won’t have any trouble with him.”
Iris acquainted herself with Hermes; she recognized him as the horse from the livery. Daniel boosted her into the side saddle. “I believe we’ll get along famously,” she assured him. “All ready.”
Daniel mounted up and reined his horse around. The other men followed suit. Iris noticed Mr. Brown appeared quite capable of managing the reins despite the handcuffs he wore.
“Then let’s go.” Sawyer led the way riding abreast of Mr. Brown while Daniel rode abreast of Iris.
Soon they’d left the outskirts of Milestone behind and Iris heaved a sigh. There’d be no turning back now, but she could do this.
She had to.
* * *
Hours later, Iris’s entire body ached, including places she couldn’t mention in the company of gentlemen. Her face felt gritty with dust and her bun had come loose hours ago, spilling strands of hair into her face more times than she could count. Thankfully, Mrs. Carter had insisted she pack the stiff brush to remove most of the trail dust from her emerald traveling suit. She must appear a sight, but she looked forward to the warm bath and hot meal upon their arrival, as Daniel had promised. She would right her hair and clothing tonight.
She gazed at each fellow in turn. Being the senior lawman, Mr. Manning had taken charge of their excursion, while Daniel had been especially mindful of her needs. He’d initiated frequent stops on the presumption of needing to stretch his legs, and he stopped near thick clusters of bushes to provide optimum privacy for her requirements should nature call. Daniel inquired a dozen times if she was doing all right. Iris smiled whenever Mr. Manning and Mr. Brown exchanged knowing glances when Daniel wasn’t looking. No doubt, they’d guessed Daniel’s feelings for her. Mr. Brown had been nothing but accommodating. Although clearly annoyed at what he’d voiced as unnecessary distrust and mistreatment at being handcuffed the entire journey, he’d taken his outward status as prisoner in stride.
Now, the endless journey finally drew near to a close as their party of four rode through the streets of Butte. Having visited her friend from Normal School before leaving for Milestone, she recognized a few landmarks and businesses she and Barbara Nelson had patronized during her two weeks’ stay.
“Stop!” she called, pulling on the horse’s reins. Hermes stopped so suddenly she almost sailed over his head.
Daniel and Mr. Manning reined their horses around Hermes, protecting her from what had alarmed her. Both men drew their pistols.
“What is it?” Daniel shouted, a concerned expression on his face as his gaze searched the street.
“Goodness, I didn’t mean to frighten you.” Iris felt her face warming. “I spotted the telegraph office. I promised to send word to Mrs. Carter that I’d arrived here safely.”
Daniel’s face relaxed and his shoulders slumped. Iris couldn’t be certain, but he might have muttered a few choice words under his breath.
Mr. Manning chuckled and glanced at Iris. “You realize his heart nearly stopped.”
“Take Brown to the jailhouse. I’ll see Iris to the hotel after she sends her telegraph,” Daniel muttered.
“Will do.” Manning continued to smile. “Come on, Brown.”
The two of them rode off, and even the prisoner was grinning from ear to ear.
“I’m sorry,” Iris whispered. “Will they tease you much?”
Daniel waved off her concern. “Doesn’t matter. I can handle them.”
Twenty minutes later, her telegraph had been sent and they’d registered in their rooms at the Copper City Hotel.
Daniel touched her hand. “I’ll be at the jailhouse until six o’clock and then I’ll meet you in the dining room for supper.”
Iris glanced at her lapel watch. Four o’clock. “That’s perfect. I’ll be waiting.” Weary beyond words, she climbed the stairs to her room, thankful Daniel had already ordered her a bath. She’d even have time for a short nap before meeting up with him again.
She couldn’t imagine what lay ahead for her, but she’d try her best to prove the trip worthwhile for everyone. Except perhaps for her family.
Chapter 13
The next morning, Iris shared breakfast in the dining room with Daniel before meeting Mr. Manning at the courthouse. Why at the courthouse, Iris couldn’t guess, but she wasn’t about to trouble Daniel with unnecessary questions.
“Where’s Hermes?” Iris walked with Daniel toward the courthouse a couple blocks away.
“He’s boarded at the livery. With Honor and the other horses.” Daniel wrapped her hand around his elbow. “I don’t want you to trip.”
The sidewalk appeared in perfect condition, but Iris wasn’t about to offer one iota of argument, relishing the warmth of his arm. He’d shortened his stride to accommodate her ladylike steps and she’d completely forgotten her earlier nervousness about the day’s purpose. People bustled about tending to their own activities, and no one appeared to give them a moment’s notice.
“Did Mr. Manning detain Mr. Brown overnight?” she inquired.
“Yes, he spent the night in a cell. We thought it for the best.” Daniel gazed into her eyes. “We’ve come too far to let him slip through our fingers now.”
“He appeared willing to cooperate and help identify any prospects.”
“True, but some people you can’t trust. Looks can
deceive. You’ve got to be ever vigilant.”
“I should know,” she conceded. “My family escaped detection on more occasions than anyone could count. I cannot believe they’ve gotten away with so many capers all these years. Never once being caught in the act.”
“Their luck will run out, eventually.” Daniel smiled. “It always does.”
As they approached the courthouse, the breeze caught the brim on Iris’s hat. She turned her head to the left and reached up to ensure it didn’t blow away. She gasped and tightened her grip on Daniel’s arm. She blinked, unable to believe what she was seeing. She pointed to the two prisoners in handcuffs, leaving the courthouse by a side door.
“What is it?” Daniel touched the hand providing a death grip on his arm.
“That’s them,” she whispered, halting her steps and loosening her grip. “That’s Father and Eric.”
Daniel followed her gaze. “The two prisoners leaving the courthouse?”
She nodded and turned her back. “I… I can’t be here. They can’t see me,” she pleaded, her eyes misting. She wavered on her feet, her entire body shaking.
“Come with me.” Daniel hurried down the side of the building nearly lifting her out of her boots. He rushed them across the street and down an alleyway before he wrapped her in his arms and pulled her against his chest. “You’re all right. I’m certain they didn’t see you.”
Iris’s resolve faltered and she burst into tears.
Daniel held her tightly while she moistened his vest. Fearing she’d tarnish his badge, she took a step back and dug a handkerchief out of her reticule. “I’m sorry,” she mumbled, dabbing her cheeks.
“Don’t be silly. You’ve had a shock. I’d hoped we’d find them here in Butte, but I never would have imagined spotting them in handcuffs leaving court.”
Iris met his eyes. “You were right. Their luck must have run out. What do you suppose they were arrested for?”
A Reinvented Lady (Sons Of A Gun Book 2) Page 8