Return to Whittakerville

by Shirley A. Roe

  “I think that old Grandfather of ours was a real bad man. Sissy, I feel sorry for Pa and Uncle Abe and Uncle Zeke. It is not nice to have a father like that. He even did mean things to Grandma, I hate him.” Sissy patted him on the shoulder.

  “Me too, we are never going to talk about that old meanie, ever again. Thomas, do you think Red Fox is mean like him? He didn't seem very mean when he was my friend.”

  “Well, he didn't seem very nice when he stabbed Granddad. I think he was just fooling us; he wasn't really our friend. The grownups don't like him much and he is their stepbrother.”

  “I don't understand that, how can he be their brother with a different mother?” Sissy looked confused. Thomas explained it to her.

  “You know those Thompsons down by the river? Well, those boys have two different mothers but the same Pa. So they are called stepbrothers. That is what Red Fox is to Pa and our uncles.”

  “But the Thompson's boys Ma died and then their Pa got another wife and they had more kids. Did our old mean Grandfather get another wife and have Red Fox? Besides, Grandma isn't Pa's birth mother, the other lady in the picture in our living room is.”

  “I know Sissy, it is very confusing. Old meanie, as you call him was married to the lady in the picture. She was Pa, Uncle Abe and Uncle Zeke's mother. She died when they were very little. Then Old Meanie, married Grandma and she became their mother. I guess he must have married another lady after because Red Fox is his son too. Oh, I don't know the details. And from the way Grandma told the story, we never will. Let's get these eggs and get in the house before Ma comes looking for us.”

  “Grownups are too confusing. I think I'll just stay a kid. Come here, you little red hen.” Sissy soon forgot about the conversation and went after the chickens. Thomas sighed, picked up the eggs and headed for the house.

  Martha sat in her bedchamber holding the wooden box on her lap. How long ago that was. Why must we all be reminded of those days? She took the folded, worn letters from the box. A torn piece of silk from an old petticoat fell to the floor. Picking it up, she caressed it with her fingertips as she began to read:

  My dearest Austin: My mental state could only be described as dark and depressed. All the love, laughter and joy have been replaced by endless toil, sadness and defeat. I'm mortified to say that I sometimes wish Jebediah were dead. The situation is hopeless and my life has become a nightmare. I feel my own heart filling with evil thoughts and I'm ashamed. Only the young boys keep me going. I realize that they need me for protection from their own father and I must be strong for them.

  She had resolved never to destroy the letters that she had written during her time in Wyoming. The letters, never mailed, that kept her sane. Holding the worn paper in her hand, her wrist began to ache and her whole body shuddered as she remembered how it had been broken. Tenderly she replaced the torn silk and folded letters to their hiding place. That night her nightmares were filled with the face of her tormentor.

  Chapter seven

  The New House

  As the hot sun shone on Wyoming, Anna interviewed several potential servants. Jeb had only given her one stipulation. No Indian women were hired to work in the house. She understood that his childhood has been filled with prejudice and hurt and agreed. Because of his treatment, which clearly resembled the treatment of the blacks in the south and now the Chinese in the west, the couple had no prejudice. If anything, they were both sympathetic to those treated badly by the whites. She finally decided on a Chinese couple. Anna had already hired a black woman to clean three days a week. Jeb was not keen on having live-in help, but did agree to give the Chinese couple a small cabin in the back of the property. Ling Ye was a very lovely, exotic woman with dark hair that hung down to her waist. Her husband was strong and very adept at repairing almost anything. She would cook and he would take care of the grounds and the maintenance. Chu Ying was a quiet man and although the two spoke some English, they said very little. This suited the Whittakers very well.

  “Ling Ye, we are having twenty for dinner on Saturday. I will discuss the menu with you and I expect everything to be perfect. I will not tolerate insubordination or sloppy work. Do we understand each other?” Ling Ye nodded, she was just happy to finally have a job and a home of her own. Her husband had come west with the railway but soon realized his life was in great danger. The dangerous and explosive, dynamite work was done by the Chinese and their lives were of little value to the railroad men. ‘Disposable’, is how the railroad men referred to them. Ling Ye talked Chu Ying into leaving the railroad when the crew left Whittakerville. This job was a blessing for them both. They settled in nicely and the Whittaker house and the Whittakers were soon the talk of the town.

  Anna walked proudly through her parlor. She stopped to watch the sunshine on the small garden. It made her think of St. Louis. I hope you are well Father. Her smiled changed to a frown. Mother, I just wish you could see me now. You insisted I settle for Hans Kruger and his tiny house on the wrong side of the tracks, you and your rules. I will show you. I will have everything I desire. I don't need you.

  All of the furniture had been purchased from a Frenchman that was leaving Wyoming for California. She knew they had paid too much for the furnishings but she wanted them. Price was no object for Anna, as long as she got what she wanted. Jeb simply paid and let her decorate. Even he was pleased with the final result. He stood in the dining room admiring Anna's work.

  French mahogany table and sideboard filled the dining room. Chairs for twenty with silk brocade upholstery lined the table. Crystal goblets glistened on the sideboard under the light of the oversized chandelier. This was the home of a fine gentleman and Jeb was enjoying every minute of it. “I must have a portrait of the two of us painted for this room Anna. I remember seeing one in your parent's mansion in St. Louis.”

  “Excellent idea, my love. Now are you happy with the house and the staff?”

  “Whatever you want, Anna. You lead and I shall follow.” She smiled. Just the way I like it. Jeb was proving to be the perfect mate for her, malleable, easy to lead and very generous. He took to wearing the fine clothes she bought, like a duck to water. His diction was improving, as was his writing and reading ability. Yes, Jeb was exactly the man that Anna Whittaker wanted. She walked over and placed her hand in his. He turned and smiled at her.

  “Shouldn't you be getting to the railroad station? Mr. Hale will be arriving soon and we want to make sure he stays here with us. Just remember what I told you.” Jeb nodded.

  “Before I go, I want to give you this.” Jeb took a small jewel box from his vest pocket. He handed it to Anna. She gasped as she opened it.

  “Oh Jeb, it is the most beautiful diamond ring I have ever seen. Where did you get it?” He removed the large square cut diamond ring from the box and placed it on her finger above the gold band.

  “Monsieur Devalle sold it to me along with the furniture. I wanted to surprise you. I know we bought the gold band in Nebraska to convince people we are married but I thought you would like to have this.” She fell into his arms. Yes, Jeb Whittaker was exactly what she wanted. He held her tight. He loved her.

  An hour later the train pulled into the station. Mr. William Hale, Governor of the Wyoming stepped from the train. Jeb was waiting. “Mr. Hale, your honor. May I introduce myself? I am Jeb Whittaker. My wife, Anna and I would be pleased to have you stay with us during your visit to Whittakerville. The hotel really is not suitable.” Jeb picked up the man's case and pointed the way to the waiting wagon. Hale was surprised but pleased. Well, well, a Whittaker meeting me at the train. Nice touch for a little nothing town in the middle of nowhere. He carried his overcoat over his arm.

  William Hale sat in the wagon, feeling the heat of the day. He was beginning to perspire. Jeb pointed out his many properties as they moved through town. Hale was impressed. He had to admit that he never knew there was a Whittakerville or that an actual descendent of the town's namesake existed, before this visit. But being a true
politician, he acted as if the town and Jeb were the most important things in Wyoming. Jeb was surprised that William Hale was in his mid forties; he had expected a much older man. The two had a pleasant conversation. Jeb stopped in front of the hotel, just as Mr. Whitehall was leaving with several other of the town council members. The group had been discussing the Governor's visit and how it would be necessary to make sure certain facts about the accounting of the town's budget, as well as a few other indiscretions were kept secret. This was a nicely orchestrated stop by Anna Whittaker. Jeb remembered her words well, ‘Just make sure your timing is perfect. Mr. Whitehall must see you with Mr. Hale. Remember we want them all to think he is my uncle.’ Jeb smiled, tipped his hat at the gentlemen and moved on. The councilmen stood staring, open mouthed, as the wagon disappeared down the street. Unbeknownst to them, the messenger that they sent to the station to meet the governor, was told the train was delayed by two hours.

  “Anna darling, we are here.” Jeb ushered Mr. Hale into the large parlor. Anna rose from the blue velvet, high backed chair and curtsied coquettishly. Mr. Hale was enchanted with this lovely, young creature. She bowed low, letting him get just a glimpse of her low cut gown and the full breasts, it displayed. She took his outstretched hand, and smiled as he placed a kiss on her hand.

  “Governor Hale, welcome to our humble abode.” Her green eyes never left his. Jeb watched with interest as Anna pulled the man into her web, like a Black Widow spider, she charmed him. He was going willingly, Jeb smiled. Men, what gullible bastards we all are. Bless you, my venomous beauty.

  Seated in the parlor, the three enjoyed tea and the conversation was lively. “I see you have Chinese servants, Mr. Whittaker. What do you think about the Chinese Exclusion Treaty, signed by President Hayes?” The question was directed at Jeb, but it was Anna that answered.

  “Actually I think it is disgusting that the railroads paid the Chinese $30 per month while the white workers got $50 for the same work. I also think the government and the railway corporations were anxious to allow the Chinese into the country when they needed cheap labor, only to now limit them, because the railroad and the gold rush no longer need them.” Mr. Hale was impressed, she continued. “The white man has already treated the Indians abominably. Do you not agree that this Chinese Exclusion Treaty has increased racial tensions here in the west?”

  “Well, Mrs. Whittaker, I did not realize you were interested in politics. Not many women are.”

  “Strange thing to say when Wyoming was the first to give women the vote, Mr. Hale.” Anna had strong opinions when it came to human rights including those of women. She was not one to be taken lightly.

  “And in case you were wondering, our servants Ling Ye and Chu Ying have a Certificate of Residence.” Jeb added, wanting to stop Anna before she lost her temper with Mr. Hale and wanting to take part in the conversation. Anna had explained the “Certificate of Residence” document, in which Chinese individuals were required to prove their residence in the United States prior to the passage of the Exclusion Act, to Jeb when she hired them.

  “I didn't doubt that for a moment Mr. Whittaker and please, Mrs. Whittaker I want you to know that I was in full agreement with women having the vote. Why close to here in Laramie, women served on the jury for the first time in 1870 and I might add we had a woman, Justice of the Peace. You are in the right place if you agree with the suffrage movement.” Jeb looked at Anna, her face softened. He could read her mind. Anna Whittaker and the Suffrage movement, indeed, they haven't seen anything yet.

  Later at dinner, Anna stared at Mr. Hale several times. Finally he returned her stare, “Is something wrong, Mrs. Whittaker?”

  “No, not really. You must forgive my rudeness. It is just that you look so much like my dear, departed Uncle Willy. It really is an uncanny resemblance. My apologies.” She took her lace handkerchief from between her breasts, a move he watched with much interest. Anna dabbed her eyes.

  “I'm sorry to have upset you my dear, were you close to this Uncle?”

  “Oh, yes, he was like a father to me. I am being silly.” Again, she dabbed her eyes. “I loved him so and I miss him. Having you here is like having Uncle Willy back.”

  The three ate in comfortable silence. Ling Ye served the apple pie and tea, clearing the other dishes as she left. “We will have whiskey and cigars in the gentlemen's room, Ling Ye.” Jeb nodded to Anna.

  “Yes gentlemen, if you will excuse me, I must freshen up. Enjoy your brandy, Uncle Willy.” She feigned embarrassment. “Oh dear, please forgive me. How silly of me. Of course, I mean Governor Hale. Oh dear, how embarrassing.” The governor patted her hand.

  “Don't be silly my dear, I find it charming. Please don't fret.” He laughed. Jeb joined him. After winking at Jeb, Anna flitted from the room. “What a charming creature, you are very lucky, Mr. Whittaker.”

  “Jeb, please call me Jeb. Yes, Anna is definitely a charming woman. She does miss her uncle very much. I apologize for what just happened.”

  “No, no Jeb, my good man. No apologies necessary. I found it rather flattering. Now shall we go and have those cigars and whiskey, and please call me William?”

  Jeb moved them toward the back of the house and the room that was now the gentleman's room. A large billiard table graced the center of the room. Dartboards were mounted on the west wall and a large, well-stocked bar took its position on the opposite side of the room. A huge fireplace, with logs perfected staked, greeted them. Large windows and ceiling fans, gave the necessary ventilation. Mr. Hale took in the room appreciatively. “I have some questions about Whittakerville that perhaps you can answer. I do have a meeting in the morning with the town council. Will you be there?”

  “Me? No, I am not on the council.”

  “Well, why not, man? You are a Whittaker and this is your town. Politics don't interest you?”

  “Actually we've only been here a few months and have just gotten settled. But you know, I might be interested in a position in the politics of this town.” Hale nodded in agreement while selecting a fine cigar from the wooden cigar box. “ I don't mind telling you that the Indian and the Chinese situation disturb me very much. I abhor any race related violence.” This was a new thought to Jeb. Mayor Whittaker, I can just see it now. He smiled at the thought.

  “It's settled then Jeb, you will accompany me tomorrow.” The two men lit their large cigars. They picked the whiskey from the tray and let the warm liquid slide down their throats, warming them on this starry Wyoming night.

  The following morning, Anna, Jeb and Mr. Hale had breakfast in the hotel. The men were to meet the town councilmen at 10. Once the other gentlemen had gathered, the three entered the meeting room. Anna, making sure she was in earshot of Mr. Whitehall, kissed Jeb and then turned to Mr. Hale saying loudly, “See you later, Jeb, Uncle Willy.” She held her hand to her lips to appear embarrassed and whispered. “Oh dear, I have done it again.” Mr. Hale laughed and waved as she left the room. The other men in the room did not miss the reference. Anna had achieved the desired effect. Jeb was proud of her. The others looked at him with confusion as she left the hotel, why was he still here?

  “Gentlemen, I have asked Jeb Whittaker to join us. I believe you will find him taking a bigger role in the politics of Whittakerville in future. I am sure you all agree with me that he would make a fine candidate for mayor.” The men stared back in shock but no one showed their disapproval. Hiding their surprise, swallowing this new development nearly choked them. Hale looked from one to the other. They all nodded in agreement, giving each other sideways looks of shock and reluctance. “Now, let's get down to business.”

  Governor William Hale happily boarded the train the next morning and never returned to Whittakerville. Anna Whittaker waved goodbye from the windy platform with a very content look on her lovely face. Jeb held her hand proudly. They would now begin to plan Jeb's political career, but there was no denying which one of them would be running the town.

  The town councilmen
were in an uproar. “First they hire Chinese, when we are trying to rid the town of the yellow scourge and now, he is going to run for Mayor. This is an outrage.” Mr. Whitehall, thinking he would be the only candidate for Mayor, was furious.

  “Well, you heard the Governor, he wants Jeb Whittaker as Mayor. I for one am not about to argue with her “Uncle Willy.” Several others nodded. “We will just have to think of some way to make sure he doesn't win the election.” Some of the men in the back of the room laughed out loud.

  “That won't be hard, since it will be us counting the votes.” The others joined in.

  “As far as the yellow scourge goes, we can scare them out of town. It worked with the last bunch that set up here. I agree with the Workingman's Party of California, they just come here and steal jobs from decent white folks. Who wants to take on the yellowbellies?”

  “I'll gladly drive them out of town. Leave that job to me.” Joe Baker smiled through broken front teeth. The others toasted him with their ale.

  “Now about Whittaker.” The meeting went on long into the night before a solution was agreed upon.

  Several days later, Ling Ye arrived home with her clothes filthy and in tatters. “What happened to you?” Anna took the basket of food from her shaking hand. “I asked you what happened?”

  “Nothing, Ling Ye fall down. No problem Missy. No problem.” Ling Ye moved toward the kitchen but Anna was persistent.

  “You did not fall down. Now, I demand an answer.” Finally after much persuasion, Ling Ye told Anna that a man attacked her as she left the general store. He dragged her into the alley and hit her several times. The man told her to take her husband and leave town, before they were both killed.