The Watchman's Grace

by Craig Johnson

  “Two months ago my neighbor Rod Corrigan had the last of it. He took his family and moved on to Australia, which could be the same situation for me. That is, if I don’t see funds my way soon.”

  Rory felt terrible to hear another story of unending misery. “Daniel, you should come by our farm with the family soon. Have a good meal and let’s talk things over.”

  “Good of you for making the gesture,” Daniel replied. “No disrespect, though what I need are sterling notes to comfort me, or face a forced eviction. Sorry for taking up your time with such bother. Say hello to the wife and children. Good day Rory.”

  “Fare you well Daniel, and all my best to your family.” Rory tipped his hat as the two men passed their separate ways.

  Ten minutes later Rory came to a halt. He rose and lifted the seat for Peter to come out.

  “Had to leave you a little longer than I planned,” he apologized. “We cannot risk anyone seeing you, especially in these hard times. Who knows what methods are planned for your capture.” Rory handed Peter a metal flask of water to drink.

  “Over behind that hedge is a safe place to take care of business. Then we continue on to Sligo, in case you are wondering. Looks like you are headed towards the Atlantic Ocean. Only mystery is which port will be your last call before hitting the wide stretch of yonder.”

  Peter reflected on the irony of returning to the west coast once again. Here was the same sea which rode him ashore as a helpless babe. As well, he felt a terrible guilt coming close to the west counties, but having no chance to visit Mary and Eamon in Kilmarnie. In the end, practicality dictated he carry on his present course, though Peter hoped some day they could at least know he was still alive.

  Riding towards Sligo, Rory thought about the daunting issues which faced his homeland. The chance conversation with Daniel highlighted quiet desperations still experienced by many, years after The Famine’s heights of misery.

  There could be no future prosperity with masses of Irish citizens abandoning ancestral homes by the hundreds. Yet whenever a Peter Harvey or Duncan Malloy sacrificed all to reverse the tide, entrenched interests made sure to invoke their policy of cease and destroy.

  Recently, he concluded there could be no peaceful middle. His ancestor tried that approach at Twintonmore, just escaping with his life. Up to this very day there have been Harveys and Malloys trying to follow the same nonviolent tactics, only to become targets.

  He would not breathe a word to the likes of Peter or other non-aggressors, though consuming fires of vengeance had been lit within him. Rory could now see cold logic in a companion armed struggle which enhanced every message of the Common Man Movement. Challenging ruthlessness from their overseers was in his view the only option left for Irish citizens.

  Rory was a recent convert to this new way of thinking. Though now the overreaching score of injustices broke any last beliefs he held in a successful peaceful protest movement. He concluded the nation’s overseers would concede authority if a counteractive movement met their aggression like for like. After all, was not now high time for defending what little they had left?

  Blood for blood, fight for right, and our land is our country. Eire demanded mortal wages as a steep price for her occupation. Rory was committed to his rationalizations, though acted for the moment in clandestine fashion. When time was nigh, he would move ahead with fervent ardor.

  Rory was pleasantly surprised when he came upon the signpost detailed in his instructions. The latter part of his journey appeared to pick up speed with the employ of fresh horses. In quick succession he followed each marking to arrive at an old gravesite.

  Nightfall was approaching, with the fading light casting an eerie glow against solid weathered tombstones. Under a majestic spreading oak tree he brought his carriage to a halt. On opening the seat below him, he was greeted by a thankful Peter.

  “Are we at the meeting point?” asked an excited Peter. “I cannot wait to stretch my legs! I must confess it is getting very stuffy in here. Sure could use a spell of fresh air.”

  “Yes Peter,” Rory smiled. “You can come out now. This part of your travels is complete. Soon your next chapter will unfold, though I feel compelled to mention something to you.

  “So far good progress has been made, with no impediments encountered. Be satisfied with your escape so far. But I always say it is when the road ahead looks clearest that danger lurks in silence.

  “I mean no ill will with my statement. Yet in this enterprise it is best to always carry a level head for all concerned. You are an exceptional individual Peter, with much still to offer. I choose to help in these efforts because the rewards in my mind far outweigh any perceived risks. Unfortunately our opponents know this as well, and will double their tactics to see your capture. Do you follow what I’m saying?”

  “Rory, from the first moment Duncan and I embarked on establishing the movement we entertained a distinct possibility some harm could visit us. As a consequence, we are very aware of how different parties perceive our aims.

  “We need self-government because it is our land, our people and our solutions which will ultimately deal with our problems. There must be no profiteers from misery, or uncaring hostilities, or unwanted prejudices to bias the functioning of a true society of peers. Anyone should desire such; it is only self-interest which denies it happening!”

  “Well put Peter. My mind is held in wonder by how the Castle and London Parliament hold most citizens to such low degree. Mark me well, there will come a time when all will be held to account! Perhaps we witness only small steps in our days, though I daresay the cornered man will eventually fight back.

  “I must take leave of you Peter. Your receiver will soon be around to establish contact.”

  Peter bade farewell to Rory on the outskirts of Sligo. Pulling away, Rory waived farewell in return. Once on the road, he knew there was one more cargo to deliver. Brendan O’Bannon expected his shipment no later than midnight. Rory realized the load of mint rifles must arrive with no delay. Brendan was never one for excuses. Giving full concentration to the journey, he steeled his resolve to help bring positive change for his countrymen.

  Back in solitary silence, Peter came to view isolation as his welcome protector. Forced to the life of a nomadic hermit, thick woods and lonely outposts were his dearest refuge. Strong relationships forged through years of shared experience were replaced by mercies from generous strangers. Now he waited for another sympathetic individual to bestow their noble comfort.

  Perhaps an hour or so after Rory’s departure, Peter heard a carriage coming towards the gravesite. He remained careful to conceal himself from its approach behind the giant oak. His new arrival came to within thirty feet before pulling to a complete stop. Peter heard someone dismount and begin to speak.

  “I come with strong heart and good intentions, seeking a man from the sea. There is dignity in his actions and loyalty in his convictions. Have I met this man of unknown origin tonight?”

  Peter gave a cautious peak from behind the tree. The speaker came alone, and read each pass phrase correctly. He gave the stranger his reply.

  “I may be the man, though I need be certain of my host. From where was I born some years ago?”

  “You were not born here but came from the sea, living straight by it in Kilmarnie.”

  Satisfied with this answer, Peter came out to meet the next receiver.

  “Hello there. I trust everything was made clear for a safe journey?” Peter inquired.

  “Definitely Peter. My carriage is ready to take us back to the homestead. There is a small shed out back which has been prepared for your lodging tonight. I hope it meets your needs.”

  “Presently, my days are spent traveling in small confines of hidden carriage compartments. Any room in which I can stretch to my full height is a luxury indeed. Glad to make your acquaintance.”

  “Likewise Pet
er. If there is anything else I can do for a fellow patriot, please do not hesitate to ask.” His receiver started the horses for their return to his plot, which was a twenty minute ride away.

  While Peter lay on the soft cot provided, he pondered the meaning of Rory Martin’s parting words. From the brief time he spent with him, Peter respected the man’s sage advice. He chose his words carefully, with wise intent. So the final caution he gave Peter struck a chord on some level. What could lead such a studious man to utter these words? Had he heard rumor of impending danger? Or was it a general warning based on the practicality of Peter’s situation?

  Once again Peter settled on the possibility of a traitor. He could not tear himself away from the thought that someone well placed was betraying confidences. Unfortunately, he was in no position to take any course of action. Peter had to keep his wits about him, just as Aidan Malloy advised. Taking advantage of his surroundings, he dozed off into deserved rest.

  *****

  One day after Peter’s departure, Duncan Malloy harbored great resentment in the wake of Wheatstone Fields’s tragic consequences. He lost his closet confident, an equal partner in the quest for a just society. Now the road ahead seemed less certain, with obstacles both real and imagined mounting increasing pressure. For once, he held some doubts about continuing their Common Man Movement.

  Aggressive opponents had raised great stakes by employing naked assassination. Loss of life was nothing new in the quest for self-government, though Duncan could see there were no limits in the Security Force’s quest for total victory. Cromwell’s Conquest lived on in the vengeance of Major Thurston and his superiors.

  So in his time of crisis, he needed to seek the counsel of one whose respect he treasured dearly; his father. Aidan Malloy would surely guide him with sound advice.

  He was fortunate to have his father taking time away from business to help the family through this trying period. He walked out of his flat early that evening to visit Goodhope House. He was greeted by Aidan, who suggested they talk in the main study.

  Duncan laid bare his hopes, fears and frustrations in complete unbridled honesty. Aidan listened with all the attentive care a father could provide. When he could speak no further, a spent Duncan slumped back into his chair. Letting him catch his breath, Aidan leaned forward to share his considered opinions.

  “Duncan, I appreciate how you hold me in high confidence by sharing these feelings. We all are trying to cope with Peter’s misfortune the best we can. Just remember, pain is where we start, understanding is the journey, and fond recollections are the final destination. Though never does the memory fade. We hold on to the image when one’s body can no longer appear.

  “One thing which experience has taught me is that life happens in the present. It sounds simple enough, but there are times in our days when we try to live our future through ways of a past that no longer exists.

  “You both shared a noble vision of what could be, a reality which still has not come to pass. Peter was a loyal individual married to his beliefs. I daresay he would redouble his efforts if challenged by intolerable oppression!

  “When starting our Common Man Movement we all knew it would be hotly contested at some point. Centuries of conquest do not disappear in a fortnight. Whatever decision you make I will respect. It is your life to live; no one else has the right to dictate terms.

  “Though if you do carry on, do so with the knowledge that support will continue from many quarters. Beginning with your family, it is bolstered by the Men of Goodhope and carried through in dedicated toil from all our county organizations. Most of all, the beneficiaries of this cause, which is every Irish citizen, needs this chance to participate equally in these lands of their forefathers.”

  Hearing the principled logic of his father’s words, indecision was swept aside in a tide of confidence no stranger to his nature. He realized now was not time to concede the aspirations of so many committed people. Their cause was greater than one person and more precious than the emotions of any one individual.

  “I thank you father for your careful consideration. When everything is tallied, I see no need to abandon my convictions. Why surrender meekly to tainted opposition? There is nothing to validate the worth of many if all is sacrificed for petty discomfort.

  “I am no rock father; we all have our moments of conscience. I feel it takes a man to recognize this, and a boy to ignore it. In fact, let the Thurston’s of our world quake in realizing this time we will carry onwards! Wheatstone Fields proved the movement cannot be ignored. In fact, its strength worried our opponents so much they employed unspeakable measures against us!”

  Aidan was proud to hear Duncan was continuing forward. His words spoke of a maturation which went beyond those subtle naiveties he noticed in earlier days. Whether Duncan recognized it or not, the Malloys were well beyond turning back. Their commitment to the movement had established firm enemies, who now sought grim payback. Now more than ever, they needed to act on a united front.

  “I respect your decision Duncan. Your words prove it is the right choice indeed. Having said that, I believe now is time to capitalize on the attention your efforts have garnered. Samuel McGee shall be summoned on a permanent basis as your lieutenant from here on forward. He has performed in the past to a high standard, with intimate knowledge of this movement’s operations.”

  “I agree father,” offered a newly committed Duncan. “It would seem the only question is when we plan our next rally?”

  Aidan grinned at the surging confidence of his reinvigorated son. “Let’s have Samuel over tomorrow afternoon for a meeting. Of course he will have to be apprised of Peter’s involvement in the happenings at Wheatstone Fields, though I hold absolute confidence in his fidelity. By the way, you look exhausted! Perhaps tonight a stay at Goodhope is fitting.”

  “Yes, thank you for the offer. Tomorrow afternoon the three of us should plan for another rally. That ugly business at Wheatstone Fields will only increase the macabre curiosity of many, along with those who heard of our last massive turnout. If the first rally had to turn away hundreds, let a second rally have their fill of us.”

  “Duncan, I agree wholeheartedly. Tomorrow we set the terms of our next engagement. Do not worry about the venue, for there is a large building duty fit for purpose. One Men of Goodhope member wanted our first Dublin rally held in its spacious location. Well, he will be pleased to soon know an equally important event can still happen there with his approval.”

  “Well enough father, seems as though we have an agenda for the next day. I’m going to retire. You have a good night’s rest.”

  “I wish you the same Duncan.” Both men went off to their respective quarters, minds exhausted after much exertion.

  Next afternoon Samuel McGee arrived at Goodhope House with his characteristic punctuality. He could sense monumental change in the air and was eager to face up a challenge. When he heard the lurid details of Wheatstone Fields, Samuel was utterly devastated. He looked upon Peter and Duncan as his two charges, to be protected at all costs. Therefore, Samuel viewed the tragic situation as his responsibility.

  Despite the random sequence of events, his supreme loyalty fed an unrealistic guilt in nature. Samuel could not come to terms with the fact he held no power to prevent such an incident. Aidan and Duncan availed of every logical reason to console their dear partner.

  Finally, it took recollections of past comments from Peter himself to alleviate Samuel’s grief of conscience. From that point onwards, this tiger of the movement prepared for the ensuing battle ahead.

  “I am well along now gentlemen,” Samuel assured them. “Our Dublin network continues to receive requests from potential new volunteers, while others ask when we shall hold another rally. In addition, we have individuals inquiring on how to furnish monetary donations for our support.”

  “That is fantastic news Samuel,” beamed Aidan. “So happens l
ast evening I told Duncan about the possibility of holding our next rally in what should be an ideal location. This morning I made all necessary arrangements and secured Foundation Hall for our exclusive use.”

  “In that case I propose we have our rally this coming Saturday noon,” Duncan offered. “There appears no need for delay. Besides, we must capitalize on the attention that has been generated and convert it to action.”

  “I have no problem with that timeframe,” confirmed Samuel. “Let’s show those bastards we are still full of fight!”

  Aidan cast a brief glance at the others. “Samuel, make the necessary preparations with your stewards and volunteers. Duncan, we shall prepare your next speech for Foundation Hall. Since the event will be in an enclosed structure, no person will escape our watch. Samuel, I want entrances and exits triple staffed. Confront any suspicious individuals on our private property.

  “It is no secret we are now at odds with a known opponent. The Security Force tipped their hand when they came to Goodhope House; the element of surprise is no longer in their arsenal. Now I expect the depravity of their actions to increase dramatically. Be cautious, be aware and be informed. Most of all we must continue to carry our movement to victory. Peter would not want it any other way.”

  “With everything to do I shall take my leave,” said Samuel. “By Saturday afternoon we shall have Dublin’s crowds singing our praises once again. Good afternoon Aidan and Duncan.”

  With a limited amount of time before the next rally, every actor pushed ahead at a feverish pace. New posters were plastered, stewards coordinated, and organization of the venue all happened with equal vigor. Days melted into hours while the movement expended much effort to meet their Saturday appearance schedule. Finally, all preparations were completed, just hours before Samuel took the stage.

  As anticipated, news spread far and wide about a second rally to match the resplendent oratory at Wheatstone Fields. Again, many people flooded the entrances to attend. Though at Foundation Hall, the stewards were well prepared. If any unsavory element attempted to disrupt today’s event, they stood little chance of a successful escape.