Jericho James - Come Hell or High Water

By J.C. Hulsey and David W. Bailey

After a hearty breakfast of eggs, biscuits and gravy, and fried potatoes, the James family left the family dining room and retired to the living room. In the fireplace, a hot, glowing fire released its warmth and permeated throughout the room. With it being the dead of winter in Parkersburg, West Virginia, near the fireplace was where Jericho wanted to be. Assembled in the living room were Jericho and his wife of forty years, Sarah. Also, Asa, along with Asa's wife, Karen, and their three children, Jericho's grandchildren. There was Jessica, the oldest, Leah, the middle child and Daniel, the youngest and their only boy.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Outlaws Publishing LLC
• Release date: May 9, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224626069

J.C. Hulsey

J.C. Hulsey is the creator and author of The Traveler series of fictional novels. This series started for the first time in 2014, which is when readers were able to pick up this debut story! There have since been several more books that came out in this popular series.  

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

Sarah

The winter months in Parkersburg, West Virginia are cold, very cold. Snowy, and at times treacherous. The wind blew cold causing people to bundle themselves in their warmest clothes, sweaters, and scarves to keep the wind from their necks. At times, the scarf was wrapped around the nose and mouth to warm the lower part of their face and their neck when they exhaled. People looked like walking clothes hampers due to their heavy winter clothes and they seemed to waddle like penguins as they walked. People looked like funny creatures in the winter. Then, there was the children, dressed like Eskimos, playing in the snow, making snowballs, and having snowball fights. Some created teams to attack or defend, a fort using snowballs as ammunition. Still, some rode sleds down snow-covered hills, or sliding on the ice of ponds and creeks.

The dangers of winter are too numerous to mention. Men, women and children came down sick with the flu due to the cold weather. Doctor’s offices and hospitals crowded with the sick. Schools closed due to snow, sometimes depending on how far they had to go to get there. Accidents with these newfangled machines called, Automobiles, slipping and sliding into one another due to the icy roads and streets creating chaos among the citizens.

But this is where Jericho James was born and raised 'til he was twenty-four years of age. He left his father’s farm in 1876 and roamed the country, especially California and the gold fields. The gold fields of California, and elsewhere had given him a substantial amount of savings. So, he and his wife, Sarah came from California to settle down on his father’s farm in Parkersburg, West Virginia. They improved the place, which had turned into a ram-shackled, run-down place, but Sarah found she loved the place, even in the condition in which they found it. She had bore Jericho three children. Asa, the eldest, Erica, the only daughter, and Reuben, the youngest son.

***

Now, the story of Jericho James continues:

After a hearty breakfast of eggs, biscuits and gravy, and fried potatoes, the James family left the family dining room and retired to the living room. In the fireplace, a hot, glowing fire released its warmth and permeated throughout the room. With it being the dead of winter in Parkersburg, West Virginia, near the fireplace was where Jericho wanted to be. Assembled in the living room were Jericho and his wife of forty years, Sarah. Also, Asa, along with Asa’s wife, Karen, and their three children, Jericho’s grandchildren. There was Jessica, the oldest, Leah, the middle child and Daniel, the youngest and their only boy.

As Jericho settled into his armchair by the fireplace, Asa was rubbing his hands together by the hearth and said, need to feed the chickens and tend to the livestock, Dad. He turned to his children, Jessica, Leah, and Daniel, and said, you three can gather the eggs.

Daniel replied, but it’s cold outside.

Asa replied, cold or not, they need tending to.

His three children replied, rather downheartedly, yes, Dad.

Jericho stood from his chair and said, I’ll lend a hand, Asa.

Ah, Dad, we can manage.

No doubt, Son, but those are my chickens and livestock, ya know.

Sarah offered her assistance by saying, I’ll milk the cows and give 'em grain. Won’t hurt me to lend a hand. ‘Sides, after we have milk, Karen and me will start making butter and sour cream.

With a smile on her face, Jessica replied, sour cream? Oh boy.

Daniel retorted with, yuck. I hate sour cream.

Leah looked at Daniel and said, good. More for me and Jesse. Huh, Jesse?

Jessica replied, you betcha.

At that, Daniel stuck out his tongue at Leah, which started a heated exchange of words between them. Asa warned, Daniel, stop that! You three get yourself ready to go outside. Ya hear me? He turned back to his dad and saw him chuckling and said, don’t laugh at that, Dad. They might...

Jericho interrupted Asa and said, ah. Brings back memories. Jericho looked at Sarah. Don’t it, Sarah?

Sarah answered, with a smirky grin on her face, yes, it does.

Asa said, well, we can talk about that later. Right now, we have stock to tend to.

Jericho looked amusingly at his oldest son and answered sharply, Yes, Sir!

Asa, looked at his dad, smiled and said, ah, quit.

Turning toward the front door, Asa asked, everybody ready?

There was a few remarks made, from I’m ready, to okay, Dad. except Jericho, who was moving rather slowly to the closet in the foyer.

Jericho replied, give me a minute, Son.

Gittin’ slow in your old age, huh? Asa asked as he chuckled.

You can say that.

There’s no need for you and Ma to do this. We can manage.

He opened the closet door to retrieve his heavy overcoat, and removed his hat from the nail by the door, then donning his coat and hat, Jericho replied, I know.

With no more argument to be made, Asa said, well then, let’s do it.

Asa opened up the front door. Snow and blowing wind came in the house with such force, it blew Jericho’s hat off his head and snow littered the foyer. Asa and the rest shivered from the cold. Shielding himself from the wind, Jericho said, close the door, Asa. Best go out the back. The house will give some cover from the wind.

Asa shut the door quickly, then replied, good idea. Everybody out the back door.

They all headed for the back door. Once outside, they all went about their appointed tasks. Shivering from the cold, the James family quickly fed and watered the stock. The three grandchildren gathered the eggs from the nests in the hen house.

Sarah prepared to milk the two cows in the barn by grabbing a couple buckets and the stool. Both began to bawl. Sarah said, ah, listen to you two. I’m comin’. I’m comin’. The bawling of both cows sounded throughout the barn.

Karen, Asa’s wife, fed chicken feed to the chickens in buckets and placed them just inside the hen house. Asa was pitching down hay from the hayloft, with a pitchfork, while Jericho was opening sacks of grain and putting the grain in buckets that were nailed to a post at an angle that the horses could feed from.

Asa stopped for a second and looked down to where his dad was and asked, Where did ya come up with that idea, Dad?

Without looking at Asa, Jericho asked, and, what idea is that, Son?

Nailing buckets to a post at such an angle.

Oh, that. It just come to me one day while feeding the horses. It occurred to me that they weren’t eating all the grain I put down. Such a waste. This stuff costs money, ya know.

I know.

Well, Sir. I thought about that for few seconds and came up with this idea. Now, there’s no waste. What is, is very minimal. As you can see.

Good idea, Pop, Asa replied as he went back to his work.

Jericho growled a low growl and said, don’t call me Pop, dag nab it!

Okay, Dad, Asa chuckled.

Asa climbed down the ladder from the hayloft and when he reached the bottom, he said, well, that should be enough, don’t ya think?

It should be. Need to clean the stalls, Son.

I’ll get the rake and shovel, Dad. You rake, I’ll shovel.

Jericho just nodded his head. Asa looked at him and became concerned. You alright, Dad?

Jericho looked at Asa, who was watching him intently. Yeah, why?

Ya look kinda peaked. Ya sure you’re alright?

It’s mighty cold in here, Asa. It’ll drain the color from your face right quick.

Well, maybe, but you worry me.

Jericho found that amusing, so he replied, I bet I do.

Asa went across to the other side of the barn and took up the rake and shovel. Jericho opened the gate to the first stall and patted the horse on the rump, gently pushing it away from him, and said in a gentle voice, move over, Laddy.

The buckskin horse whinnied, blowing cold air, then moved away from Jericho as Asa came up with the rake and shovel.

Jericho said, I think it best we remove Laddy and tie him off on the next stall for his cleaning. We'll do the same with Lady.

Okay, Dad. Asa took a small rope from a nail and put it around Laddy’s neck, led him out of his stall, and tied him to a post just outside the stall.

Meanwhile, Sarah had finished milking both cows. After she milked the last cow, she slapped the cow on the rump, making her bawl. Sarah chuckled. Ah quit bawlin’, Lucy. You’re okay. Lucy moved away from her, still bawling. Sarah had collected three buckets of milk. After each bucket was full, she placed a burlap bag over the top to keep out dust and anything else that might get into them and placed the buckets of milk upon a barrel. She went to where Asa and Jericho were cleaning out the stall and said, I’ve finished the milkin', Jerry.

Jericho stopped his work and turned to Sarah. Need help taking them to the house?

No. I’ll see if Karen will help me.

Well, okay. He returned to his work as Sarah headed for the door of the barn to find Karen.

The grandchildren had gathered what eggs were left and put them in a basket, then took them to the house. Karen was on her way to the barn when Sarah opened the man door of the barn and shivered a little. I’ve got three buckets of milk, Karen. Mind helping me with 'em?

Karen answered, no, I don’t mind. Get me outta the cold, somewhat.

Sarah said, sure will be glad to be in the warmth of the house.

Karen replied, me too. They took the buckets of milk to the house, while Asa and Jericho were finishing up the cleaning of the stalls.

Jericho said, need to clean their hooves and look for anything wrong, Asa.

Okay, Dad.

Afterwards, we need to cover them with a blanket. Gittin’ down right cold in here. At least they’ll be a little warmer.

It was near noon when Asa and Jericho finally came into the house. Removing their overcoats and putting them in the closet in the foyer, they headed for the living room where they were met with sandwiches and glasses of milk. Jericho took to his armchair by the fireplace. Sarah and Karen and the grandchildren were in the kitchen, beginning to make butter and sour cream.

Looking at the buckets of milk on the table, Sarah said, by the looks of things, Karen, we might have just enough for cottage cheese.

Karen replied, now, that does sound good.

Jessica and Leah both exclaimed, oh yeah. Love cottage cheese.

Daniel muttered, I hate cottage cheese.

Jessica and Leah both looked at Daniel. Then, Jessica asked, is there anything you do like?

Daniel replied, excitedly, ice cream!

Both girls went, ugh!

Sarah was chuckling as Karen said, sorry, Son, but by the time we get butter and sour cream, and hopefully cottage cheese made, there won’t be enough milk for ice cream. ‘Sides, we don’t have the ice cream freezer here at Grandmas.

Clearly disappointed, Daniel went, ugh! Both girls laughed at that and Daniel stuck his tongue out at them.

Karen tapped the top of Daniel’s head. Now, don’t do that Daniel, and you girls be nice.

Asa had taken a seat in a chair he had moved a little closer to the fireplace, close to his dad. Jericho rubbed his hands together and stretched them out to the heat.that sure do feel good.

Reaching out to the warmth of the fireplace himself, Asa replied, it sure does.

Jericho grabbed up his sandwich from the table beside him, but before taking a bite, he grumbled, too dad blasted cold and snowy to do anything else. Wouldn’t ya say?

Asa replied, I would, but come spring, we’ll have to mend whatever old man winter put to waste.

Jericho replied, and, by the looks of things, it’s gonna be a long winter, but we’ll get by. Come hell, or high water, we always do.

Asa, grabbing up his sandwich, said, have to wait for spring and the snow melt to see what damage has been done and repair what's needed.

Jericho replied, you said that already.

I reckon I did, huh. He paused, then asked, You got seeds for spring plantin’, Dad?

Some. Seeds are so expensive these days, Asa. Fifteen cents a pound, depending on what ya want. I took some seeds from the plants we had and saved ‘em. Hopefully, they last the winter. He took a bite of his sandwich followed by a sip of his milk and they fell silent as they ate their lunch.

When they had finished their sandwiches and milk, Jericho said, now, that was downright tasty.

Jericho heard the chime of the grandfather clock in the hall and reached into his vest’s left hand pocket for his silver pocket watch. He pressed the pin and the cover sprang open. Yep, right on time. He snapped the cover back, and returned the watch to the left hand pocket of his vest.

Asa said, Ya had that watch a long time, Dad. I remember as a kid seein’ you check the time with it.

I have, Son and soon enough it will be yours. Jericho replied, glancing into his son's eyes.

Asa, not liking where this subject was going, dropped the subject. Jericho, sensing Asa didn’t want to hear about such things, didn’t pursue it. Side-stepping an awkward moment between them, Asa asked, What kinda seeds do ya have, Dad?

Jericho settled back into his chair, then replied, oh, the usual, I reckon. Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, peas, and beans.

With raised eyebrows, Asa commented, beans? No doubt for bean cakes, huh?

Jericho chuckled, then said, I do like my bean cakes, Son. But beans are good with anything. Like I was sayin', beans of various kinds, along with okra, tomatoes, and celery. And of course, a few taters, radishes, turnips, which brings turnip greens, some mustard greens, lettuce, onion, and Spinach. Oh, yeah, that reminds me, put a few mustard and turnip greens with the fresh spinach into your salad. Good stuff! I also got a few different kinds of spices for your mother. And all different kinds of wild berries grow ‘round about, like blackberries, raspberries, gooseberries, and cherries. Then of course, ya got your apples, peaches, plumbs, along with all kinds of nuts growin’, as you know. Oh, yeah, and I almost forgot the grapes, and whatever else the good Lord wants us to have. The rest, we buy at the general store. Sugar, flour, salt and such things.

Asa, then asked, how are ya set for money, Dad? Ya need any?

Jericho looked around him, then said, well, ya wouldn’t know it from the meager way we live, but we have plenty, Son. The gold fields of California and other places rendered up a small fortune, of which there is still a hefty sum left. He looked at Asa and asked, how 'bout you? Need any money, Son? Ya know, whatever’s mine is yours.

Asa chuckled at that and replied, thanks, Dad, but we’re just fine.

Well, whenever ya need some, ya know where to get it.

I noticed, that as kids, we never wanted for anything.

Jericho replied, true, but ya had to work for some of it. Taught ya that hard work and the money what comes from it, is not so easily squandered.

It also taught me that whatever ya worked for, ya never took for granted.

Rubbing his chin as he proudly looked at his son, he smiled and said, oh, I don’t know. There was a couple times when...

Asa interrupted, saying, yeah, I know.

Well, at least ya remembered.

How could I forget? Ya kept reminding me of it every so often.

They both chuckled at that, then Jericho said, a lesson, good or bad, is still a lesson.

And, I learned it well.

On the last one ya did. I’ll say that for ya.

Throughout the day, minor chores were taken care of around the house. The fireplace was raked of ash and coals and new wood from the wood bin next to it was added and lit. Shutters that had come loose and were banging against the windows were corrected. As Asa went about taking care of the other chores what needed done, Jericho sat down at his desk, with a tally book and pencil, and began to account for the expenditures for the last week and deduct them from his bank account. No longer was he young and frivolous with the way he spent his money. Though, on a few occasions, he had found new wealth, he squandered it rather quickly. He gave money away to those who needed a grub stake of some kind or other, with promise of repayment, yet never was. Or, he invested in some kind of deal that later went belly up.

When he and Sarah were married, she knew she had to act, and act fast, to retain whatever wealth they had acquired. She lovingly, and yet forcefully, guided Jericho to account for his money in a more respectful, demanding way. After all, they were man and wife, and security was foremost the important thing in her life. Jericho readily agreed, which made Sarah very happy. And though they traveled extensively, Jericho began to keep a record of his spending.

It was late in the afternoon when Sarah came from the kitchen with a cup of coffee for Jericho, and found him sitting by the fire in his armchair. It seemed he was just staring at the fire, not aware of his surroundings.

She stood at the door, watching for a moment, then smiled to herself. Here, Jerry. I made a fresh pot and this is the first cup from it. At first, he didn’t reply. She tilted her head to one side, then said, Jerry? You okay, Dear?

He reached out and pulled her to him and she sat on the arm of the chair as he said, we’ve lived a good life, haven’t we, Sarah?

Yes, we have, Jerry. Showing concern, she asked, Why, what’s the matter?

He sighed heavily, then said, all those memories keep flooding back. It makes a body feel, he looked into her eyes, old.

She chuckled as she bent down and kissed the top of his head. That’s because we are old, ya ninny. I have my share of memories, too, ya know, but I don't like dwelling in the past like someone I know. Handing him the coffee, she said, here. Fresh cup for ya.

Thanks, he said, taking the cup from her.

Just then, Asa came in the room, stopping to observe them, he smiled, then said, get a room, you two.

Sarah replied, why get a room, Asa, when we have the whole house?

Asa chuckled and said, well, ya got me there, Mom. Oh, Karen was lookin’ for ya. Said it was gettin’ late and...

Sarah rose from the arm of the chair and said, I’ll go see what she wants, Asa. Turning back to Jericho, she said, we are still livin’ the good life, Jerry, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Jericho smiled as he watched her leave the room.

Perplexed, Asa asked, good life? What was that about, Dad?

Then, the grandfather clock in the hallway began to chime and Jericho took his pocket watch from his vest pocket, pushed the pin to open the spring-loaded cover and uttered, right on time. Three o’clock. Snapping the cover in place, he put the watch back in his vest pocket and smiled.

Asa stood quietly staring into the fire, then finally offered, how ‘bout a touch of brandy, Dad? To warm up the insides.

That’s a crackerjack idea, Son. I’ll get the bottle and glasses. He rose from his armchair and went toward the liquor cabinet.

Sarah came into the room and saw where Jericho was headed and asked, Drinkin’ so early in the day, Jerry?

He turned to Sarah and said, it’s just brandy, Sarah. It’s not really drinkin’. It's just a little somethin’ somethin' to warm up the insides. Turning back to the cabinet, he unlocked it and reached in to grab the bottle of Rye. Turning, he smiled sheepishly at her, then said, now that’s drinkin’.

Sarah smiled and shook her head, then said, ya do have a way with words, Jerry. Jericho put the Rye whiskey back and reached for the Brandy and glasses. So, what sounds good for supper? Sarah asked.

With the Brandy and whiskey glasses in his hands, Jericho turned to her, saying, oh, whatever suits your fancy, my Dear.

Ah, quit that fancy talk. And, thanks for nothin’.

With a bewildered look on his face, Jericho turned to Asa and asked, What’d I say?

I’m stayin’ outta this, Dad. You are on your own! he chuckled.

You worry me.

Still chuckling, Asa said, I bet I do. Sarah turned and went back into the kitchen.

Still bewildered, Jericho said, women! Ya can’t live with 'em and ya can’t shoot 'em.

No, ya can’t, Dad. That’s against the law, he laughed.

Jericho shook his head and said, Too bad, that. Sometimes, it could be worth the price.

Meanwhile, in the kitchen, as they busied themselves with pots and pans, Karen asked Sarah, What did Dad say he wanted for supper?

Whatever suits my fancy, Sarah replied as Karen chuckled. After hearin’ that for all these years, I wish he’d learn to say somethin else. She put her hands on her hips and turned to look at Karen. Well, whatever shall we fix, then?

Smiling, Karen suggested, how 'bout...chicken and dumplings?

The three grandkids went, MMM.

Sarah replied, well, now, that’s a fine idea. Warm and satisfyin'. I’ll kill the chickens and you prepare the dumplings. Okay?

Karen glanced at the children. And, the kids can help pluck the chickens.

All three children whined, oh, Mom.

She gave them that mom look. Help your grandma. Do as she tells ya. Go on. Get.

Sarah went to the closet in the foyer and put on her heavy overcoat and a pair of gloves. The grandkids, moving rather slowly, brought a stern, go on, get! from Karen. They almost took off running out the back door. Rather quickly, they came running back into the house. She laughed at them and laughed. Forget something?

Shivering from the cold, with snow falling from off their heads and shoulders, they all remarked, Yeah!

As the grandkids ran to the closet in the foyer, they passed Sarah heading for the back door. Turning as they passed her, she grinned and asked, cold, are ya?

They replied together, yeah! Coats! Sarah chuckled at that.

Back in the kitchen, Karen was rolling out the dough for the dumplings as Sarah and the grandkids, who were finally dressed in their heavy overcoats, went to find a big fat chicken or two for the pot.

In the living room, Jericho and Asa was enjoying their glass of brandy. Jericho was about to take another sip, when a thought occurred to him. He looked at Asa and said, ya have any more of those fine cigars, Asa? Sure would taste good later.

As a matter of fact, Dad. I do. A different kind this time.

That’s my boy. What kind are they?

Don’t rightly know, but what I hear is, they are quite good.

Ohh, yeah.

From the left front pocket of his vest, Jericho took out his silver pocket watch and pushed the pin and the front cover sprang open and looked at the time. Mail’s runnin’ a little late today, I guess. Shoulda been here by now.

Could be the weather. Ya expectin’ a package? Asa asked.

Putting his silver pocket watch back into the left front pocket of his vest, Jericho replied, no. Expectin’ a letter from your brother, though. Been a while since we heard from him.

Asa chuckled and said, you of all people should know how the Army is, Dad. And, if ya hadn't noticed, Ruben ain't much on writin'.

Jericho sighed, I know, but him off fightin’ over in... He searched for the name of the country in his mind, but not finding it, he stammered, wherever it is, I lie awake sometimes wonderin’ if he’s okay or not.

I’m sure if anything...was...wrong, they’d let ya know, wouldn’t they?

Sure they would, but it might take a while to hear from ‘em seein’ as how he’s so far away and all.

Oh, quit worry’n. I’m sure he’s just fine. He can take care of himself.

With a worried look on his face, Jericho looked at Asa, then vowed, I know you’re right. I won’t allow anything to happen to him.

You’re such a good dad.

I try.

Asa chuckled and said, sometimes you’re very tryin’.

With a surprised look on his face, Jericho grimaced and stated, now, you sound like your mother. They both chuckled. The wind began to pick up and they listened intently to the sound. Sounds like a good size storm movin’ in, Asa. The sound of the storm began to grow in its intensity. Well, Son, it looks as though you guys may be spending the night. I know how depressed ya are over that.

They exchanged a look, then Asa answered, as long as I have good company, good food, good whiskey and good cigars, I’m good with that.

Jericho replied, Cigars you have. The rest I have. I hope.

Asa smiled at his dad. You’re always good company, Dad. 'Sides, ya have to finish the story you were tellin’ the kids. Some of that I haven’t even heard.

***

The wind howled as the storm raged outside. A tree branch from an Elm tree just outside Asa’s old bedroom, broke and crashed through the window. Winds picked up what was not nailed down and scattered the whatnots around the room. Snow littered the floor. Asa and Jericho did what they could to cover the window, but it would have to wait 'til later to be repaired. When that was done, Sarah and Karen began to pick up what was scattered around the room and sweep up the snow and glass.

As Asa and Jericho were coming from the room, they heard the grandfather clock chime four o’clock. Asa sighed, time flies when you’re havin’ fun, don’t it, Dad?

That’s what they say. He took his silver pocket watch from his left front vest pocket, pushed the pin to open it and noted the time. Yep, right on time. He snapped the cover back and placed it back into the left front pocket of his vest.

Asa asked, you checking the time for the grandfather clock or your pocket watch?

Both.

Uh, huh.

Back in the living room, the fire was beginning to dwindle, so Asa stoked it and put another log in the fireplace as Jericho returned to his armchair. Sarah and Karen and the grandkids came in the living room with Sarah rubbing her arms from the cold.

Jericho saw this and asked, you okay, Hon?

Sarah replied, yeah, just a little cold, is all.

Jericho stood from his armchair and gestured with his hand. Sit here a spell. I’ll get a blanket and cover ya.

Without saying anything, Sarah went and sat down in the armchair. Jericho went to the hallway and retrieved a blanket from the linen closet, then carried it into the living room to cover Sarah with. Sarah smiled gratefully up at Jericho. He returned the smile. There ya go, Dear. You’ll get warm soon enough.

As she snuggled into the blanket, Sarah replied, Thanks, Jerry.

Jericho turned to Karen. I’m sorry, Karen. You okay? Ya cold?

Karen smiled at that. I’m fine, Dad. Thanks.

Asa looked at her rather sheepishly. I’m sorry, Hon.

She lovingly placed her hand on his arm and smiled. Don’t worry about it, Asa. I’m fine.

Yeah, but I shoulda asked.

You were worried about Mom, which is as it should be.

Thanks. Have I told ya I love ya? He bent to kiss her cheek.

Oh, a couple times. But I never get tired of hearin’ it.

Jericho looked at his son and daughter-in-law, and grinning widely, asked, should we leave the room?

Karen blushed as Asa looked at him in amusement, and remarked, ah, listen to you.

Sarah looked at Jericho sternly and said, Jericho! What a thing to say. She snuggled back into the blanket, and added, in front of the children, no less.

Jericho chuckled. Well, the way they were carryin’ on, ya’d a thought...

Sarah cut him off, Never mind what ya thought. It wasn’t proper. As Jericho sulked, she looked at Asa and Karen and said, ya gotta forgive your father, Asa. He’s gettin’ old in his old age.

Asa chuckled and said, I’ve noticed that.

Jericho looked at Asa, saying, Listen to you two.

The grandkids moved a little closer to the fireplace to warm themselves and Asa warned, don’t stand too close. Embers just might jump out at ya. At that, they backed up a little.

Daniel went over to Jericho and stood in front of him. Grandpa?

Standing at the fireplace, warming his backside, Jericho looked down at him. Yes, Dan’l?

Daniel glanced at his dad, then back at his grandpa. Can ya tell us a story, again? Maybe finish the story ya was tellin’ us earlier?

Jessica and Leah both said, Yeah!

Jericho chuckled and replied, I don’t see why not. ‘Cept, I don’t recall where I finished off at.

Daniel gave a sorrowful sigh. Oh.

Jericho turned to look at Sarah. How soon before supper, Hon?

It’ll be a while yet, Jerry. Ya have time for some of it.

Remembering the chicken in the pot on the stove, she put the blanket on the floor beside her and quickly rose from the armchair, causing Jericho to ask, Where ya goin’?

To the kitchen. With the oven goin’, it’s bound to be warm in there. Sides, I need to get supper ready.

Karen stood. I’ll help ya, Mom.

As Sarah and Karen went into the kitchen, Asa said, I heard it said a woman’s work is never done. Always doin’ somethin’.

Jericho reclaimed his armchair and settled in as Asa picked up the blanket off the floor. He looked up at Asa, who was folding the blanket and said, I’m worried about your mother, Asa. She hasn’t been doin’ too well here of late.

Asa looked down at his dad and asked, what seems to be the problem, Dad?

Jericho replied with concern on his face, can’t put my finger on it, Son, but she tires out too soon. Old age maybe. That alone causes me concern. Other than that, I don’t rightly know. Asa turned and looked towards the kitchen with concern on his face. I know she has aches and pains, but to hear her complain? That’ll never happen. This winter has been real hard on her. I know she worries about Ruben as well as I do. The thought of him in war...well.

It must be just old age, Dad.

I don’t know. Ya seen her rubbin’ her arms when she came in?

Well, yeah, but she said she was cold.

Jericho stared into the fireplace. It’s more than just the cold, Asa. I’ve seen her rub her arms even in the summer. It’s like she’s losin’ the feelin’ in them or somethin’. Jericho turned again to look at his son. I’m worried.

Asa studied on that a few seconds, then turned to his children. You kids go and give your mom and Grandma a hand. They gave their dad a questioning look and he motioned with his hand, saying, go on!

Daniel was about to ask why, but Jessica put her hand on his shoulder. He looked at her as she said, let’s go.

Asa waited 'til his kids left the room then finally asked, has she seen a doctor?

No. I keep askin what’s wrong, but she keeps sayin’ she’s okay and not to worry. With concern on his face, he shook his head. But I do.

Well, maybe, ya don’t ask her, but take her to see a doctor.

"Well, yeah, there’s that, but what if she doesn’t want to go?’

"Ya missed the meaning of take her!"

Jericho chuckled at that and said, you try that and see how that works for ya. She can be a stubborn, muley-headed old woman, Asa.

If what ya say is true, Dad, you get her to a doctor as soon as ya can. Could be nothin’, or it could be a whole lot of somethin’, but she needs to see a doctor.

Jericho sighed heavily. Yea, I know, but gittin’ her there might be a problem.

Getting headstrong, with determination showing in his face, Asa replied, matter-of-factly, Oh, she’ll go all right! If I have to hogtie her! She’ll go!

Jericho just chuckled. I’d pay good money to see that, Asa.

Asa said, Well! I will! With raised eyebrows, he added, If I have to. He smiled at his dad as he continued, and, you get free admission.

Jericho looked at Asa with a bemused smile. Well, now, that’s mighty generous of you, Asa. Thanks.

Just then, a knock came on the door. Looking towards the front door, Jericho asked, now, who can that be in weather like this? It ain't fit for man, nor beast.

Asa, heading for the door, replied, don’t know. When he opened the door, strong wind and snow came rushing into the foyer. A man stood at the door and Asa could tell by the way the man was dressed, it was the mailman. The man at the door stood shivering from the cold.

Asa stood there with snow pelting his face and strong wind blowing his hair around and finally reached out and took hold of the man’s shoulder. Well, don’t just stand there, Will. get inside before ya catch your death o’ cold.

Stepping in out of the wind and snow, Will replied, thanks, Asa.

Asa hurriedly closed the door and both stood there shivering from the cold. Will had a jumbled stack of letters in his hand while he wiped the snow off his shoulders in the foyer. Jericho had come to find out who it was, then said, Will! What in tarnation is wrong with you? The mail coulda waited 'til this storm blew over.

Will stepped a little closer into the living room. Looking from Jericho, then back at Asa, he replied, yeah, I know, Jericho, but... there be a couple letters from the Army Department and ... Will started separating the letters and found the one he was looking for. There’s one from Ruben for ya. I thought it was important ya got it right away.

With surprise in his voice, Jericho asked, Ruben, ya say?

Will handed the letter from Ruben to Jericho. I did.

Taking it from Will, Jericho opened the letter from his youngest son, Ruben, and looked at Asa, who was waiting expectantly. Well, let’s see what young Ruben has to say.

Just then, Sarah came into the room. She saw Will and noted Jericho with a letter he had just opened, and cocked her head to one side and asked, your head cold, Will?

No, Ma’am. He hurriedly removed his hat. Sorry, Sarah.

Sarah asked, mail from Ruben, I hope?

Before Jericho could answer, Will said, it is.

All three men stood there looking at Sarah as she stood steadfast and said, well, don’t just stand there gawkin’ at me. What does the letter read?

Jericho cleared his throat. Need my glasses.

Sarah stepped closer to Jericho and reached for the letter. Oh, for goodness sake. Taking the letter from Jericho’s hand, she unfolded it and began to read aloud. "Dear Mom and Dad;

I hope this letter finds you in good health. This letter was sealed with a kiss. That’s for you, Ma. I just wish I was there to give you a real one. Sarah sighed aloud to her son's statement. I do, too, Son. She reads on. Just got back to camp aid to have fresh bandages put on my leg wound. Took some shrapnel a couple days ago.Sarah gasped. Looking at Jericho, she exclaimed, He’s been wounded, Jerry!"

Jericho replied, I heard, Sarah. Go on.

Sarah took a couple seconds to regain her composure. Just a flesh wound. Nothin’ to worry about. At that good news, they all shared a nervous laugh. Just received news from our company commander that our company will be returning home in a couple weeks. Sarah put the letter to her chest, then looked at Jericho. He’s comin’ home, Jerry! He’s comin’ home!

Smiling, Jericho replied, I heard, Sarah. Could ya just read the letter without pausing in the middle? Takes away from what’s bein’ said.

Sarah simply replied, Sorry.

That’s all right, Dear. Just read the letter.

She reads on. Seems the war over here is startin’ to peter out. I was glad to hear that bit of good news. It did my heart good to hear I was goin’ home, too. France was a pretty country before the war. So I hear. But since the war, it has become a giant graveyard! I’m just glad I’m not pushin’ up some daisies! Well, anyways, I’ll be lettin’ ya know when we get to come home. Don’t know when that will be, but I’ll be lettin’ ya know. I miss and love you, Mom and Dad, so terribly much. I can’t wait to see ya. Tell Asa and Karen I love and miss them, too. I did write to them. I hope they got my letter. I wrote to Erica and her husband, Tom, as well. I’m so dad blasted nervous, can’t hardly keep pencil in hand. See ya soon. I hope. Love and affection, Your son, 2nd Lieutenant, Reuben James.

Sarah again put the letter to her chest and gave a sigh of relief. Jericho and Asa joined her in that sigh of relief. When they looked at Will, they noticed he was standing there with tears in his eyes.

Asa put his hand on his shoulder, asking, what’s wrong, Will?

Will looked down at the floor. A few seconds later Jericho asked the question again. Will raised his head and stammered a few seconds, then spoke. I sure am glad for you folks. His voice began to break and his lips were trembling. Right glad.

Concerned, Sarah asked, well, what is it, Will?

Will looked at Sarah, then at Asa and Jericho. He wiped the tears from his eyes and said, my oldest boy, Ben? He was killed in France two weeks ago, come this Friday. His ma took it real hard. God bless her.

Sarah gasped. Jericho and Asa both replied, I’m sorry, Will. Jericho, then said, we didn’t know, Will. Accept our deepest sympathies.

Thanks. You’re awfully kind. He turned toward the door. I better go. I still have mail to deliver.

Sarah stood with concern on her face as she watched Will walk to the front door. Jericho and Asa walked with him. Before the door was opened, Will turned back to Jericho and Asa. I’m right glad for you folks. You’re good people. He turned to Asa and nodded his head. At that, Asa opened the door to let the wind and snow come rushing in. And, into that wind and snow went the mail man. Asa shut the door once Will cleared the doorway. Shivering from the cold, Jericho and Asa turned to see Sarah, standing there, with concern still on her face.

Jericho turned his head and stared at her from the corners of his eyes, asking, you all right, Sarah?

It took a few seconds before she answered. She finally replied, that could’ve easily been Ruben, Jerry.

As he went to comfort her, Jericho said, but it wasn't. He took her into his arms. You read his letter. He’s soon to be comin’ home.

Asa said, there’s comfort in that, Mom

Buried in the loving strength of Jericho’s arms, Sarah replied, I suppose so.

Jericho released Sarah from his embrace and held her at arms length, saying, so, ya see? There’s nothin’ to worry about.

When I lay eyes on him and him bein’ in good shape, that’s when I’ll stop worry’n. She smiled.

Jericho replied softly, Sarah.

Sarah turned back toward the kitchen. Supper will be ready in a few minutes.

Jericho uttered, Sarah! They watched her walk back into the kitchen.

Asa, looking after her, said, two weeks is a long time, Dad. He then turned to look at his father. A lot can happen in two weeks.

Jericho looked at Asa and replied, then, we’ll just have to keep thinkin’ good thoughts, won’t we? An awkward silence