The Wreck of the 'Cincy' Queen

By George S. Haines

THE WRECK OF THE 'CINCY' QUEEN

A train derailment in the dead of a summer night in 1948 jolts Sam and Howie into action. They have just christened and dedicated to God their new business, the S and H Detective Agency. Also, Sheriff Neverfine has appointed them the status of Special Deputies.
Strangely, the last boxcar on the train was conveying coffins containing the corpses of American soldiers who were casualties of the Battle of the Bulge, fought in 1944. Stranger still is the discovery that one of the corpses is the transport agent for valuable jewels and coins. Then when Sam and Howie discover a jeweled Christian cross lying on the ground near the wreckage the mystery deepens.
Will Sam and Howie be able to surmount intrigue, death threats, subterfuge and international conspiracy to solve the Wreck of the Cincy Queen, the latest, fastest most powerful steam locomotive of its time? You will have to read every chapter to find out.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Dec 10, 2013
• ISBN: 9781491830918

George S. Haines

The authors, George S. and Myra Jane Haines, have shared their knowledge, ideas and experiences to develop and compose the narrative for this intriguing mystery. Both authors are career teachers at public schools. They also served many years as professors in the Department of Education at Taylor University.

Book preview

The

Wreck

Of The

‘Cincy’ Queen

GEORGE S. HAINES

46796.png

AuthorHouse™

1663 Liberty Drive

Bloomington, IN 47403

www.authorhouse.com

Phone: [phone]

© 2013 George S. Haines. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 11/19/2013

ISBN: 978-1-4918-3090-1 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4918-3089-5 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4918-3091-8 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2013919544

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

A prologue

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38

39

40

41

42

43

44

45

46

47

48

Epilogue

This book is dedicated to all readers who enjoy losing themselves in an exciting mystery with occasional humor and a few surprising outcomes. Lacking objectionable language, this novel is appropriate for all ages.

*      *      *      *

I am especially indebted to my wife, Myra Jane, for her unending support and prayers. Her perusal of the manuscript and suggestions were invaluable.

*      *      *      *

Hopefully, young readers will find the novel uplifting, captivating and surprising. It is my intent that the story gives glory to God, and inspires readers to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ.

*      *      *      *

And, I wish to pay a special tribute to Betty Wedeles, the talented artist, for her poignant rendition of The ‘Cincy’ Queen that greets every reader on the front cover.

A prologue

T he year is 1937. Sam and Howie, young lads of 10 and 11, stumble onto their first mystery. Exploring an old log cabin on their grandfather’s farm the adventuresome youth fall through the floor into a tunnel. Staring at them is a skeleton holding an oversized horseshoe with symbols forged onto one surface. As they attempt to determine the identity of the skeleton and the meanings for these strange markings, scary and dangerous times await them. Will they be able to survive and solve The Giant Horseshoe Mystery? You will have to read this novel to learn the outcome.

Two years later Sam and Howie are investigating a vacant, dilapidated house on the same farm. Under the steps leading to the upstairs they find three metal rods with the letters X, Y, and Z shaped on the ends. As the two curious lads try to determine the purpose for the tools, they discover a secret room hidden under the kitchen that has been used for the making of illegal ‘moonshine’. Attempting to stay ahead of two cold-hearted men who also want to know the secret behind the odd-shaped tools, they find themselves in some very perilous situations. Do you think a solution for this mystery of the tools is possible? Read every chapter to test your sleuthing ability.

In 1942, Sam and Howie, now 16 and 15, are busy repairing an old red pick-up truck when they discover strange pieces of faded paper inside the spare tire. Following vague clues to learn the origin of the papers the two amateur detectives are harassed by an evil dentist and two shadowy characters with odd names. A murder, stolen paintings, secret coded messages and international intrigue are all involved to thicken the plot. Do you think you can solve The Red Pick-Up Truck Mystery?

During the Second World War, in 1944, Sam and Howie enroll at Taylor University. There they encounter Professor of Chemistry, I. M. Wulf, who many students think is quite strange as he uses disguises during his lectures to impersonate long-dead scientists. When Sam and Howie find coded messages being passed in their chemistry classes they learn that P.O.W.’s and German agents are working together to destroy American factories. How can the college freshmen possibly cope with this quagmire of subversion? Read The Professor with Many Faces and find out.

More recently, in 1948, Sam and Howie have graduated from Taylor University. Establishing their S and H Detective Agency in Marion, Indiana, they don’t have long to wait for their first case. A freight train derailment mires the two new sleuths into the difficult task of trying to determine the cause of the wreck. They are thwarted in their investigation by former German army officers who are very interested in the contents of one boxcar that is transporting 33 coffins holding corpses of American casualties of the Battle of the Bulge. It seems these Nazi officers believe one of the coffins contains valuable jewels and coins. Also, when Sam and Howie, who have been deputized by Sheriff Neverfine, investigate the derailment they find a spectacular jeweled Christian cross lying on the ground. With so many adversaries coveting the jewels, coins and jeweled cross how will Sam and Howie be able to survive and be successful in solving the enigma of the Wreck of the Cincy Queen? Dig into this novel and see if you can solve the mystery before you read the last page.

An Ode to the ‘Cincy’ Queen

I am the brash steam locomotive that defies rain, hail and sleet,

speeding on the rails, conquering every obstacle that I may meet.

Buffeting winds are no match for this ‘IRON HORSE’.

Blasting through rock slides and snow drifts is a matter of course.

Steam hissing and black smoke puffing up toward the sky,

are my signatures and a way of saying ‘hi’.

My job is to transport people and freight to destinations without fail.

And, oh yes, my whirling wheels also bring you the mail.

Over the years soldiers and sailors have depended upon me

for speedy delivery to training camps and battlefields, you see.

There is endless freight to carry including furniture, trucks and cars,

and, of course, a few passengers who spend their time behind bars.

But I am special, not like my common brothers clad of iron and steel.

I am the CINCY QUEEN, the locomotive that is for real.

Named after the Union Terminal in Cincinnati, I am beautiful to behold.

I am a locomotive that will never for scrap be sold.

After my useful days are over for me and my coal tender,

you’ll see this ‘Iron Horse’ at the train museum in all of my splendor.

Roster of Characters

This listing of players in The Wreck of the ‘Cincy’ Queen will help the reader follow the flow of excitement as the mystery develops.

The Wreck Of The ‘Cincy’ Queen

1

"S am! Wake up! There’s been a terrible accident! Wake up! Howie vigorously shook Sam and yelled, A train has derailed outside of town. It’s the Cincy Queen, the fast freight on the Chicago and Cincinnati line. The locomotive and coal car turned over and have plowed through the ground for a good half-mile on a dairy farm. Sheriff Neverfine just called and wants us out there. Get a move on. I’ll get the car."

Yeah, okay, Howie, responded Sam, bleary eyed and only half conscious. I didn’t hear the telephone. He squinted at the alarm clock sitting on the unpainted three-drawer chest.

What’s the big rush? It’s only 3 o’clock in the morning. We don’t have to be at the office until eight… Oh, what did you say? A train wreck?

I know it’s early in the morning, Sam, but we’ve got to get moving. Yes, a train wreck. It happened about an hour ago. We won’t be going to our office this morning. A message on the Sheriff’s police scanner just reported a serious train derailment two miles west of Marion and five miles this side of the town of Converse. Sheriff Neverfine and Deputy Snooper are already on their way. The scanner report said all of the freight cars jumped the tracks and the result is a jumble of metal and wood, with piles of cargo spread over acres of pastureland. It’s possible the train’s crew could be injured.

Now dressed, Howie laced up his shoes, smoothed back his hair and hurried toward the door.

We’ll be out of here in five minutes, Sam shouted. Go ahead and get the car out of the garage… and don’t forget the red light.

The adrenalin was surging; now they were both wide awake. Sam was thinking, Wow, that monster locomotive and those huge freight cars loaded with cargo all tumbling over each other. What a tragic mess.

Rushing out the front door, Howie sprinted to the garage. Sam jumped into his pants, pulled on his tan shirt with the monogram, S and H Detective Agency, stitched in blue across the pocket, shoved his feet into black shoes, grabbed a flashlight and slammed the apartment door behind him.

As he ran for the car his mind was racing. He mumbled to himself, There hasn’t been a train wreck in Grant County for years. The Cincy Queen makes a run from Chicago to Cincinnati two nights a week and there’s never been a mishap. Why would it jump the tracks tonight? Well, perhaps Howie and I can assist the Sheriff in determining the cause of the wreck.

Howie had the car waiting at the curb with the passenger door open. Come on, Sam, jump in. We need to get out there and see this wreck for ourselves. Even though it’s dark we can get an idea of the extent of the damage.

Yeah, there’s plenty of moonlight tonight.

Sam slammed the car door shut. Immediately Howie rammed his foot down on the accelerator. Their cruiser with its powerful engine leaped to life. The rear tires gripped the brick paving blocks propelling the car forward at a rapidly increasing speed. The red oscillating light on top of the vehicle created a daunting light show on the sides of the rather drab houses in the sleepy neighborhoods as the squad car sped by the dark homes. In a few seconds they were in the country speeding west leaving their apartment and the Marion city limits far behind.

*      *      *      *

Sam and Howie had recently rented their small apartment, located at 1414 Nebraska Street, Marion, Indiana, a short distance from the Chicago and Cincinnati train station. Their limited income allowed them to rent their accommodations for 350 dollars a month. The sparsely-furnished living space including a tiny kitchen, two bedrooms, a bathroom and a small living room.

Obtaining the required schooling during the previous two summers, they had received the necessary licenses to provide detective services in the state of Indiana. Also, Sheriff Neverfine, Grant County’s long-term elected lawman, had deputized both Sam and Howie a few weeks earlier, in May, after a 10 week training course with instruction on the proper use of weapons, the court system, code of ethics, the Sheriff’s Manual of Operations and the correct procedures for dealing with prisoners. After passing the necessary physical examination they received their Deputy Sheriff badges.

Since they were both authorized to carry concealed weapons the sheriff recommended they purchase .38 caliber Colt specials and carry the pistols in shoulder holsters. Weekly visits to the firing range kept their marksmanship at a high level.

Having met all legal prerequisites and complying with city ordinances, they proudly established a functional office. A large sign stenciled in gold letters with black shadows as background was spread across the wide window that fronted their business located on 3rd Street across from the Grant County Jail. It boldly stated:

S and H DETECTIVE AGENCY

‘ALL CONSULTATIONS ARE CONFIDENTIAL’

The inauguration of their office had occurred on a mild, bright afternoon in early June, 1948. Sam and Howie stood proudly on the sidewalk outside their office gazing at the sign that advertised their agency. They looked at each other and asked in unison, Now that we’re open for business, who will be our first client?

Both newly-minted detectives had graduated the previous spring from Taylor University, a Christian college located in Upland, a small town nearby. Sam’s serious ‘heart throb’, Ginny Hammer, and Howie’s steady girl, Lulu Lenfesty, had jointly cut the ribbon that was stretched across the entry doorway with a large pair of cardboard scissors, officially opening the S and H Detective Agency. On that day Sam and Howie and their detective office were dedicated to God and service to all.

The mayor of Marion, Mr. Oscar Newman, was in attendance at the opening. Mrs. Gertrude Oliver, the president of the local Chamber of Commerce, her broad smile beaming, made the rounds acknowledging everyone. The two community leaders shook hands with the two neophyte businessmen and offered congratulations. They also pledged their support in helping the new business grow and prosper.

Vigorously pounding Sam and Howie on their backs, Mr. Newman effused, Welcome to our advancing city and to our vibrant business community. We are so glad you were able to remodel this vacant space across the street from the County Jail. It used to be a grocery store but has been vacant for two years. You have changed an empty, cluttered space into attractive and warm offices.

Yes, added Mrs. Oliver, and we pledge our support to the success of your endeavor. Call me at any time for any assistance you may need.

Thanks, Mr. Newman and Mrs. Oliver. We will need lots of help as we start our new business, grinned Sam.

No doubt we will be calling on you both. We surely appreciate your encouragement, added Howie.

At that point a photographer appeared at the front door with a flash camera in hand. "I’m from the Marion Tribune, he announced. Where are the two new detectives, Sam and Howie? I want to take several pictures of them and get their comments about opening a new business in our prospering hometown. We welcome young entrepreneurs to our city and want to publicize their efforts and progress."

They’re over there, standing by the door to the conference room, shouted Mayor Newman, pointing in that direction.

Hi, Sam and Howie; My name is Frank Overbaring. I’m a reporter from the local newspaper. I’d like to take several pictures of you two in your new offices and write up your story. Our readers are interested in the opening of this new business and comments about your line of work, that of being detectives. Your work is rather secretive and behind closed doors is it not?

Some of our efforts and all of our conversations with clients are confidential. That’s the nature of our business. Welcome to our grand opening. We appreciate the publicity, replied Sam, smiling. Take several pictures; we’ll tack them and tomorrow’s news story up on our bulletin board. Soon flashbulbs popped and everybody clapped, indicating a sincere appreciation for the two young businessmen.

Suddenly, bursting noisily through the crowd of well-wishers, Sheriff Neverfine roughly grabbed Sam’s arm and Howie’s hand, gave a crushing squeeze to both and bellowed, Well, I’ll declare. I never thought I’d see this day, you two Taylor University graduates starting up a detective agency. But, both of you do seem to have a knack for rooting out pertinent details and solving difficult mysteries. You have proven your mettle during the past several years. The Sheriff’s office has greatly benefited from your assistance. And now you are my Special Deputies. Congratulations to you both.

And, kudos to you, Howie, for graduating ‘summa cum laude’ at Taylor, and for being the speaker at your recent graduation ceremony, added the sheriff, grasping both of Howie’s arms and looking him directly in the eyes.

Thanks, Sheriff, responded Howie weakly. He was still rather embarrassed by his being selected to speak at the Taylor commencement as student representative of his class.

Yeah, added Deputy Snooper, who seemed to be rather miniature in stature as he followed the burly, six-foot five sheriff around the office space that was crowded with well-wishers, and you were instrumental in unmasking your unscrupulous chemistry instructor, Professor Wulf, a.k.a. I. M. Molar who also posed a few years ago as I. Yanky, the fraudulent dentist in West Chicago. He is now an unhappy and restless resident in our county jail across the street. Sam and Howie, you both assisted in putting him behind bars.

Surprised at his eloquence, the deputy adjusted his cap, cleared his throat, dipped his chin, shoved his hands deep into his front pockets and retired to stand over against the wall next to the bathrooms.

His trial is scheduled for late this summer, nodded the sheriff. Well, Snooper and I have to get back to our offices in the jail. We have six prisoners in custody including one woman and the professor and we need to keep a close eye on them.

Yeah, yelled Snooper over his shoulder as he headed toward the exit, this morning we locked up an old lady who was accused of shoplifting down at the Priceless 5 and Dime Store. She’s in a cell in the female wing of the jail.

What did she steal? shouted Howie.

The store manager said she lifted a piece of cheap jewelry, a small Christian cross with some fake jewels stuck on it.

How do you know the gems are fake, Deputy Snooper? asked Sam. Isn’t it possible they could be valuable?

I suppose so. We’re just quoting the store manager’s words. Actually, since we haven’t seen it we have no idea as to the value of the cross. When we booked the lady the jail matron searched her and the cross was nowhere to be found. Without any solid evidence the store manager will probably drop the charges and we’ll have to let the lady go.

Sam was thinking out loud a stolen Christian cross studded with gems, now missing. That’s odd. Someone must have thought it was worth stealing. Howie and I need to keep this information in mind. How could a costly piece of jewelry disappear into thin air? That theft could be a part of our first case at the S and H Detective Agency.

2

A fter all the visitors and well-wishers had left the newly-decorated office suite following the grand opening event, the four of them, Sam, Ginny, Howie and Lulu, remained and looked with pride around the space occupied by the detective agency, admiring their new surroundings and decorating skills.

This office is really nice, Sam, reflected Ginny. It’s so comfortable, warm and functional.

And you both have private offices, plus an attractive conference space, added Lulu.

The office complex was divided into two offices, a private conference room, bathrooms and a reception area. All rooms were sparsely furnished with desks, a conference table and chairs purchased from a World War Two surplus store. They were all proud of the walls they had painted a comfortable light tan color and the added three-foot high wainscoting of decorative wallpaper highlighting the U. S. Constitution in large letters. A large American flag, attached to a wood pole held upright by a bronze colored metal stand welcomed visitors as they stepped through the front door.

But the focal point of the offices was the portrait of Jesus hanging on the wall back of the reception desk. Sam and Howie were determined to show all clients and visitors the guiding light and basic premise of their business. They had decided upon a short scripture verse from Psalm 48, verse 14, placed in bold letters below the picture as their daily creed :

For this is God,

Our God forever and ever;

He will be our guide

even unto death.

They all sat around the conference table smiling and chatting, their conversation centered on the folks who had attended the opening ceremony.

Suddenly the silence was broken by the brusk and forceful opening of the front door. Entering and striding directly into the conference room, Kenny Burley, a former Van Buren High School classmate, extended his hand to Sam and then to Howie. He exclaimed, Congratulations and best wishes to you both. I know you will be successful because you are honest, hard working and persistent. But, best of all you have a dependence upon God for your daily work here in Marion.

Thanks, Kenny, for coming to our grand opening. The support of Grant County residents is important to us as we begin our service as detectives, replied Howie.

Moving over to Lulu and Ginny, Kenny gave each a hug. Lingering more when he came to Ginny, he squeezed her generously. Stepping back, but still standing close, he smiled and looked directly into her eyes. Then, glancing around he said, Sorry I’m late to your grand opening but my boss at the stone quarry gave me only a 30 minute break.

We are always glad to see you, Kenny. How is your steady girl friend? asked Sam.

We broke up two weeks ago. She fell for a former marine who was discharged last month. I was disappointed but perhaps the end of our relationship was best for both of us, he replied as he moved over to stand close to Ginny.

I’m sure you will find someone soon who will make your life complete, encouraged Ginny, with a charitable smile.

Yes, Kenny replied, looking fondly at Ginny’s attractive, smiling face for an extended time. Then grasping both of her hands, he added, I’m sure I will.

After an awkward silence he stepped back and said, I must be going. Now that I know where you all hang out I’ll stop in again and say hello.

Giving Ginny a fond, lengthy glance Kenny exited and disappeared down the sidewalk, walking quickly toward his dusty Dodge pick-up truck parked with both passenger-side wheels up on the sidewalk. As he strode with confidence he murmured to himself, Ginny is a beautiful woman. She needs someone like me who is forceful and assured. I’m going to marry that gal. I’ll be a more logical and attractive mate to Ginny than Sam, that backward farm kid who still exudes the essence of the barnyard.

Slamming the door shut on his aging, rusting Dodge truck, Kenny was smiling as he started the engine and sped off in the direction of the Piper Creek Stone Quarry, the breeze causing the vehicle to lose some of the thick layer of accumulated limestone dust.

Sam stood as if in a trance. He was stunned and mute. Having observed the meaningful glances that darted back and forth between Ginny and Kenny, his mind was racing. ‘What were Kenny’s intentions? Were there mutual expressions of feelings between Ginny and Kenny? Had he been blind to a developing relationship?’

Howie was the first to speak. Because of Kenny’s constant and awkward attention to Ginny he wanted to change the topic of conversation. He relieved the tension by leaning forward and speaking loudly with emotion. All the local residents seem to want our agency to succeed. And the expressions of good will were overwhelming, and I might say, a little humbling. We have a grave responsibility here. We are now serving God and the public. He could feel the lump in his throat getting larger. Suddenly the impact of being public servants as Christian businessmen became real. Could they live up to the challenge?

Ginny, her face still flushed, had been quiet but now spoke up. Sam, you and Howie have had a wonderful Christ-centered education at Taylor University. You both are now well qualified to function as detectives in an ethically and morally correct way.

I agree, broke in Lulu. As you rely on God your business will prosper.

This has been a wonderful day, observed Sam, relaxing somewhat. But now that the festivities are over and our offices are officially open we have to face reality. We need clients, several people who need our services. Otherwise Howie and I will just be sitting here looking at each other, not a pleasant thought, he added, grinning and glancing at Howie.

Yeah, and you have rent to pay for this place, and your apartment, reminded Lulu, who possessed a practical mind.

And don’t forget the lights and water bills, smiled Ginny.

We can’t just go out and persuade men or women walking on the sidewalk that they need some help from detectives, countered Sam. We are newly-minted sleuths who have no official track record and no name recognition. We have to survive until our efforts are known and appreciated.

Sheriff Neverfine has always been impressed with your ability to solve crimes. He will be an excellent co-worker, suggested Lulu. He will need your assistance and will call on you for help.

Okay, let’s lock up. It’s after five, suggested Sam, rising from his chair. Howie and I need to buy some groceries on the way home. Ginny, can you loan me a five spot? Our bank account is a little low right now.

Sure, I’m glad to know that Lulu and I are an important part of this organization. Here’s ten dollars, Sam. I don’t want you and Howie to go hungry. Both she and Lulu had a smug look on their smiling faces as they walked out the door and headed toward their apartment.

Sam lagging behind, fumbled for the keys to their car. Some disturbing thoughts lingered in his mind. Is there an evolving attraction between Ginny and Kenny? Have I been missing something?

Suddenly a feeling of intense jealousy entered his being. He murmured, Kenny is certainly more assertive and aggressive than I am.

Did you say something, Sam?

No, I’m just thinking out loud about our professional future and my personal relationships.

Are you talking about your relationship with Ginny?

Yes. Kenny’s behavior toward Ginny in my presence today was rude and unwelcome. He practically ignored us and Lulu.

Sam, I’ve been trying to urge you to pay more attention to Ginny. You are taking for granted your current relationship and your future together. She is very attractive with a winning personality. She attracts people, especially men who hover about her like bees swarming around blooming flowers.

But, I.

Don’t interrupt me! You’ll be surprised if some day in the near future Ginny announces to everyone that a new man, perhaps Kenny, has captured her heart. Then what will you say? How will you feel?

I will feel miserable.

Then do the right thing; get serious. Tell Ginny how much she means to you, that you can’t possibly go through life without her. Share with her your love. I know how you feel, now inform her.

Absorbed in his thoughts, Sam was silent. In his heart he knew that Howie was right.

Slowly locking the front door to their detective office, Sam joined Howie in the slow walk to their car that was parked in the reserved lot at the jail. Sam’s thoughts were cascading through his mind… What does the future hold for the S and H Detective Agency, and for them as special deputies? And, how about his love life? Yes, Ginny deserves his undivided attention. But could he express how he really felt