Jericho James - Like Two Lost Children: Jericho James, #2

By David W. Bailey

The year is early nineteen-seventeen. It is near the end of winter in Parkersburg, West Virginia. The snow has blanketed the landscape in white. The wind howled something fierce the day before, which had caused Jericho to put more wood on the fire in the fireplace in the living room. There were snow drifts everywhere. The wind had scattered the snow into piles. Trees were covered with snow to the point that most of the thin trees bent from the weight of it.
This morning though, the kitchen was quite warm due to the stove and the heat that came from it. When Jericho and Sarah had finished their breakfast, they both rose from the table. Sarah took the plates and silverware to the sink to wash as Jericho headed for the living room. Sarah stared out the kitchen window at the bright blue sky.
"Looks to be a real nice day today, Jerry," Sarah said. "The sky is blue. Very few clouds, and there's no snow or wind to speak of."

• Language: English
• Publisher: Outlaws Publishing LLC
• Release date: May 9, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224841387

David W. Bailey

David W. Bailey was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia on February 3 1951. He has traveled across the U.S and back with his family. He is a Navy Vietnam veteran and proudly so.  He now lives in Bakersfield, California with his wife of 40 years He is the middle son of three boys. At an early age, he and his family traveled the U.S., from Parkersburg, West Virginia to Bowie Maryland down to Tampa, Florida. From Wellsville, Ohio west to Casper, Wyoming and all points in between. When his family landed in California in the mid-60s, they set roots in Ventura County. David is a Navy Vietnam veteran. Six years after his discharge, he joined the Army, spending six years with a total of twelve years military service. He and his wife, Sandy, married on July 4, 1981 in Casitas Springs, California and now lives in Bakersfield, California. They have three grown children and three grandchildren. His favorite quotation is, "I'm here 'cause I'm not all there."  

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JERICHO JAMES

LIKE TWO LOST CHILDREN

DAVID W. BAILEY

COPYRIGHT © 2018 BY David W. Bailey

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, recorded, photocopied, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above-mentioned publisher of this book, except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review.

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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are a product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is purely coincidental.

This book may contain views, premises, depictions, and statements by the author that are not necessarily shared or endorsed by Outlaws Publishing LLC.

For information contact: [e-mail]

Cover Art by Michael Thomas

Cover design by Outlaws Publishing LLC

Published by Outlaws Publishing LLC

February 2021

10987654321

CHAPTER 1

Reacquainted

It was early morning as Jericho James and Sarah, his wife of forty years, were seated at their kitchen table. Breakfast consisted of eggs, biscuits, and sausage gravy. The aroma of biscuits permeated the room as well as heightened the palate for their soft and delicate, buttery taste leaving more to be desired. As Jericho drank down his last dregs of coffee, a rooster crowed.

Without looking at her husband, Sarah asked, want more coffee, Jerry?

I would love some, thanks.

Sarah rose from the table and went to the stove and brought the coffee pot back with her. Here ya go she said, as she sat the coffee pot down on the table.

Thanks, Hon.

As he reached for the pot, Sarah answered, uh huh. As Jericho poured himself another cup of coffee, Sarah sat back down at the table across from her husband. Again, a rooster crowed.

The year is early nineteen-seventeen. It is near the end of winter in Parkersburg, West Virginia. The snow has blanketed the landscape in white. The wind howled something fierce the day before, which had caused Jericho to put more wood on the fire in the fireplace in the living room. There were snow drifts everywhere. The wind had scattered the snow into piles. Trees were covered with snow to the point that most of the thin trees bent from the weight of it.

This morning though, the kitchen was quite warm due to the stove and the heat that came from it. When Jericho and Sarah had finished their breakfast, they both rose from the table. Sarah took the plates and silverware to the sink to wash as Jericho headed for the living room. Sarah stared out the kitchen window at the bright blue sky.

Looks to be a real nice day today, Jerry, Sarah said. The sky is blue. Very few clouds, and there’s no snow or wind to speak of.

Sarah opened the window to reaffirm her statement. BRRR! she said, as the frigid cold air enveloped her. She closed the window. But, it’s still colder than a well digger's butt in the Klondike out there. BRRR! she said again as she turned from the window, rubbing her arms.

Jericho smiled and replied, today ain't over with yet, Sarah.

With raised eyebrows, Sarah said, ain't you the optimist?

Jericho chuckled and said, realistic, I reckon.

Sarah nodded as she reached for the pot of hot water that had been heated on the stove to wash the dishes. The heat and the steam from the water warmed her, causing her to smile.

Jericho went to the living room and sat down in his armchair and gazed at the fireplace. The wood had burned down to a low blaze, so he put more wood on the fire. Again, he sat down in his armchair, but only for a few minutes. He decided he should do some work outside, seeing as how the weather had turned out nice. Sarah had come from the kitchen with a fresh cup of coffee for him and met him in the foyer as he opened the closet door to retrieve his heavy winter coat.

Where ya going, Jerry?

Outside for a while. I’ve been cooped up way too long. I need fresh air and the need to do something.

Now, you’re sounding like Lucky. Sarah said as she chuckled. He went on so.

As he put on his winter overcoat, Jericho said, yeah. Even today, I miss my old friend, Sarah. Such good times we had, him and me.

Yeah. Gone, but not forgotten, I expect, she replied, smiling.

Jericho said, ya can say that again. He gazed at her. But I wish ya wouldn’t.

Surprised, Sarah said, you never quit, do ya?

Jericho chuckled as he opened the front door, bu, he did not turn from her.

You be extra careful out there, Jerry, Sarah said. It’s awful slippery, and you can slip and fall and hurt yourself. And, ya know I can’t drive that newfangled... Failing to find the right words, she said, what they call an automobubble, or some such thing. She sat the cup of coffee on the window ledge as her eyes narrowed. She tried to bundle him up even further from the cold air. As she was doing so, she said, too many gadgets to worry ‘bout.

As Jericho softly kissed his wife on the cheek, he said, you worry too much, Sarah. I’ll be just fine. Feigning agitation, he rolled his eyes and said, and, quit fussing over me. Putting his hat on his head, he said, and, it’s called an automobile.

Whatever it is! Her voice and face softened. You’re not as young as ya used to be, ya know. Sarah looked at her husband with loving eyes and a bright smile.

He replied in kind and said, thanks for the reminder.

Sarah’s eyes gleamed as she replied, just saying. Finishing her task, she said, there. As she patted his chest, she said, that’s better.

I’ll be fine as frog's hair. Jericho said, smiling. So, stop worrying, will ya?

Sarah cocked her head to the left and with an expression of concern on her face, she watched Jericho leave the house and close the front door behind him. That man will be the death of me yet. With wishful thinking echoing in her voice, she said, oh, to be young again. Then she turned and went back to the kitchen.

Meanwhile, outside, Jericho was about to turn the corner of his house, headed for the back, when the chugging of an automobile came to his ears. He turned and waited for whoever it was coming up the long driveway. Before the automobile came to a stop, he knew who it was. Will, the mailman. Jericho walked over to the automobile and waited for Will to exit.

Will climbed out and closed the driver door. Howdy, Jerry. How are you and the Missus doing today?

Jericho replied, Oh, I’m here ‘cause I’m not all there, Will. Ya know that, but Sarah? She’s doing just fine, I reckon. Ya need to talk to her, do ya?

Will answered, the letter is addressed to her, but I reckon I can give it to you. It’s from Reuben.

Jericho asked, Reuben, ya say?

Will replied, yep. I thought it might be important, so I brought it out to ya. He handed the letter to Jericho.

Jericho said, thanks, Will. Looking at the letter, he mentioned, kinda early today, ain't ya? Jericho then looked at Will who was looking at him.

Had to get an early start, answered Will. Seeing as how it turned out to be such a perty day.

Jericho replied, happily, that it did, Will. That it did.

Hope it stays this way for a while. I’m tired of being cold to the bone. If ya know what I mean? I get a frightful shiver ever now and then. Pert near shakes my store-bought teeth loose. BRRRR! Both men chuckled.

Jericho agreed, I know what ya mean, Will. Puts a whole new meaning to the saying, shiver me timbers, don’t it?

Will chuckled and said, yeah, I ‘spect to reckon it does. Well, I best be going. Got a few more letters here to deliver from their kin what is fighting the war, so I’ll be seeing ya. You and the Missus take care now, ya hear?

At that said, Will, the mailman, got behind the wheel of his automobile and closed the door. He waved at Jericho who waved back. Jericho, again, stared at the letter from Reuben. Better find Sarah., he said. She’ll be tickled to see this.

As Will drove over the slippery snow to the other entryway of the long driveway, Jericho slapped the letter against the palm of his other hand and said, shoot! I’m tickled myself.

Jericho went back inside and closed the door behind him. Sarah? he yelled. Got a letter here from Reuben. Will just delivered it!

Sarah came rushing from the kitchen, wiping her hands with the apron she was wearing. Reuben, ya say?

Jericho replied, uh huh. Will just delivered it.

I wondered who that was. She stared at the letter in Jericho’s hand. Well?

Well what, Sarah?

She asked, excitedly, oh, for heaven’s sake, what does he have to say? Before Jericho could reply, Sarah took the letter from his hand, saying oh, give it here.

Jericho smiled as Sarah opened the letter and began to read it to herself. He stood and stared at her for a few seconds, then asked, well?

Shoosh! she said I’m reading.

Jericho chuckled, then said, can ya read it to where I can hear what’s being said as well, Sarah?

Sarah looked up from the letter and chuckled, saying, oops! Giggling, Sorry.

Never mind that. Just read it aloud, Sarah.

Sarah began to read the letter aloud;

"Dear Mom and Dad;

I hope this letter finds you well. It’s still roaring like thunder over here with cannon fire and rockets exploding everywhere. But I am safe for the moment while I take pen in hand and write to you. I can’t complain, though, at this point in time, I would be very good at it. I have some bad news to tell you."

Sarah stopped reading as she looked at Jericho with a worried expression. Ya don’t suppose he ain't coming home right away, do ya Jerry, or maybe his wound has become infected?

Well, I don’t know, Sarah, ya haven’t got to the bad news part yet.

She said, I’ll get there. I’m just worried.

No need to be worried ‘bout something we don’t know what is, Hon. Let’s just see what he has to say. Hmm?

I think I better be sitting down before I read any further, Jerry, she said. The bad news may be too much for me to handle.

Okay, if you’re in need of it.

They both went into the living room and Jericho took to his armchair while Sarah took to the couch across from him. Jericho looked at Sarah with an expression of love and deep concern. He waited until Sarah had made herself comfortable, then listened as Sarah began to read again;

Our company Commander gave me this news just today. It seems while trying to clear a German machine gun nest, many men was killed, including Darrel McCrea. You remember him, don’t ya? We went through high school together. Long, tall drink a water, he was. But a kinder, gentler man I never knowed. He was my best friend. We joined the Army together. You remember that? When next you see Mrs. McCrea, send her my deepest sympathies and best regards, if ya would. I would appreciate it, kindly.

Sarah stopped reading as she put her hand to her mouth and looked at Jericho. Poor, Lola. I reckon she’s been told already?

Jericho replied, I expect so, Hon. The Army may be slow on some things, but they get the job done. Could be that’s what Will had to deliver. With a faraway look in his eyes, Jericho went on. The letters to those what lost kin folks.

Remind me, Jerry, to go and pay Lola a visit and give her me and Reuben’s heartfelt sympathies.

Jericho said, I will, Dear, as well as my own. His eyes narrowed. That’s a hard thing. As his mouth curved into a smile, he asked, what else does young Reuben have to say?

Well, let’s read on. She, again, began to read, aloud;

"Well, Mom, Dad, I spoke to my Commander about us getting to go home soon, like I had written to ya before. He told me the onliest way I was gonna go home was in a box, or when the war was over. The wounded is patched up at the regular hospital and sent back into action when they get better. Those that need better medical attention is sent home to be an invalid for the rest of their born days. Not much to look forward to, is there? I wrote to Erica and Tom, but I haven’t got anything from ‘em yet. I also wrote to Asa and Karen. They wrote back and said the kids was all doing just fine. I hear ya been telling your story to ‘em, Dad. Maybe ya need to write a book on it. Ya know? Your memoirs? Just a thought. Well, I reckon I better close for now. The Captain just yelled we had ten minutes to go, then over the top we go. So, I put pen aside and wish you both the best.

Love, your son

2nd Lieutenant, Reuben L. James

Sarah put the letter to her breast and patted it with her hands. Jericho looked at her with love in his eyes. Sarah’s face lit up at receiving the letter from Reuben.

He asked, You ain't gonna cry, are ya?

If I do cry, Jerry, she said, it’ll be tears of joy.

Jericho said, poor Mrs. McCrea. She must be feeling something awful right ‘bout now. Losing her son that way. Again, his eyes narrowed. It’s a hard thing. He lowered his head and stared at the floor. There was a strained silence between them.

Sarah looked at the letter again. She looked at Jericho who was staring down at the floor. What’s the matter, Jerry? she asked.

I was just thinking of Kenny. How he must be feeling right ’bout now, too. He shook his head. It’s a hard thing, this war. First, the Civil War, then, the Spanish-American war, and now this war. It’s a hard thing, I tell ya. I know. I been there during the Indian wars. Many’s a time I thought...

Now, now, there’s no need to be thinking on that right now, Sarah said. Save that for your stories ya been telling the grandkids.

Jericho replied, Yeah, well, He smiled. I reckon I can do that.

Without saying another word, Sarah turned and headed back to the kitchen and Jericho stood and watched after her. He knew that letter from Reuben would cheer her up. That is, after they knew what Reuben had to say in that letter. He remembered a line that Reuben had said, ‘over the top.’ He wondered what that meant. Over the top of what? A hill? A building? In either case, he wondered what he meant by it. He thought on it briefly, then he dismissed it. He had things to do before the weather turned bad, again.

Jericho went out the back door toward the barn. Off to his left was the corral and the tack room. He shivered from the cold. It may have been a clear day, but boy was it cold. Frigid could be a better term, for it seemed to go straight through him, no matter how many clothes he had on. It was downright freezing. He had to check on the horses, make sure they were doing okay. He had to break the ice in their buckets so they could drink. He had to clear away the dung and clean the stalls and provide fresh hay and grain, then he cleaned their hooves to prevent rot, or split hooves.

He was in the middle of his chores when Sarah entered the barn. Jericho was shoveling the dung from one of the horse stalls into a wheelbarrow when he heard the barn door squeak open and then close. He turned to find Sarah coming at him, shivering from the cold. He paused and leaned on the shovel, shaking his head. With each breath expelled, it could be seen, only to dissipate.

Jericho asked, so, what brings you out in the deep freeze? It’s pure-D downright cold.

She replied, thought I’d come out and give ya hand, Jerry. And, from what I see, you could use the help.

Yeah, I reckon I do. Thanks.

For the rest of the morning 'til early afternoon, both he and Sarah did their chores. Chickens were fed, both Jersey cows were milked and the milk placed in buckets, and the horses were taken care of and the stalls cleaned and refurnished with hay.

Jericho said, well! What say we get outta this deep freeze, Sarah?

Looking around her, she replied, if you’re sure we’re done.

Jericho complained, done, or not, I can’t bear the cold any longer. I can feel my bones ache. I’m getting down in the back and my legs feel like they may break at any time from being so Dad blasted cold. He shook his head and shivered. Ah, listen to me, whining like a ten-year old boy. I should be ashamed.

Oh, fiddle faddle! she replied. Ashamed of what? Getting old? Ya did good today.

I’d say we both did.

You’re welcome, she said, and giggled as Jericho patted her head and smiled.

They headed back to the house and a warm fire. Sarah placed her gloved hand in the crook of Jericho’s arm and smiled at one another as they walked. You would have thought they were newlyweds or something. As they entered the back door to the kitchen, there came a knock on the front door, then it opened.

Jericho asked, what the? Who opens a man’s door and just walks in like that? Then he and Sarah looked at each other and smiled. Excitedly, he exclaimed, Asa and the grandkids. Well, I’ll be a white-tailed buck.

They rushed into the kitchen through the back door as Asa closed the front door. He, his wife Karen, and the three grandkids, Jessica, Leah and Daniel, were already removing their winter overcoats and hanging them in the closet when Jericho and Sarah came in.

Smiling, Jericho chuckled and said, well, what have we here, Sarah? Looks like a bunch of ragamuffins, if ya ask me.

All three grandkids yelled, Grandpa! And they engaged in idle chit chat as they greeted each other with hugs and kisses. Then, Sarah and Karen went to the kitchen, talking between themselves. Asa, the grandkids, and Jericho went into the living room.

Asa noticed the smoldering embers in the fireplace. Fire’s losing heat, Dad, I’ll stoke the fireplace while you and the kids get reacquainted.

Asa went to the fireplace and from the pile of wood next to it, he put a few more pieces of wood in the fire. Jericho had taken to his armchair and was giving each of his grandchildren more hugs and kisses as they clamored up to him. They each returned his affection. Soon, the grandchildren sat crossed legged on the floor in front of him. Asa, then gave his Dad a hug as best he could around the kids. Jericho returned his hug. They both smiled at one another.

It’s been a while, Dad, Asa said. How ya doing?

Ah, ya know me, Asa, I’m here ‘cause I’m not all there. Other than that, I’m fine as frog’s hair.

Asa chuckled at that as he sat down on the couch across from his Dad. I been hearing that ever since I was a kid, Dad. You need new material.

Jericho replied, ah, don’t fix what ain't broke, Asa.

Oh, it ain't broke, Dad, it’s just old, is all.

Older than I am, I reckon. Heard it said sometime back, liked the sound of it, and been saying it ever since.

Yeah, that’s what I figured.

Jericho said, been saying it pert near most of my life, Son. Why should I change now?

Asa said, oh, just a suggestion. Just trying to get ya caught up to the times, is all.

Jericho asked, so, ya think I’m too old for the times that are, huh?

Asa shrugged his shoulders. Yeah. Some.

Well, Son, you can rest assured, you’re as old as ya feel. and ya know how I feel.

Yeah, I know, Dad. Asa chuckled. You feel with your fingers.

Jericho chuckled and said, ya darn tooting, I do.

Then, the grandfather clock in the hallway began to chime. Jericho took his silver pocket watch from his vest pocket, pushed the pin and the cover sprang open. Two o’clock. Right on the dot.

Daniel asked, how old is that watch, Grandpa?

Dan, Asa pointed to the watch in his Dad’s hand. That watch was given to your grandpa by his Dad on his death bed. He’s had it ever since. I seen it when I was growing up.

Jericho snapped the cover back. And, when I’m on mine, Asa, it will be yours.

As Jericho put the silver pocket watch back into his vest pocket, Asa replied, let’s not talk ’bout that, Dad. He gave a half smile. I don’t wish to talk ’bout it.

What’s the matter, Son? The talk of death scare ya, does it?

Asa looked at his children with a dreadful expression, then turned back to his father. The talk of death doesn’t scare me, Dad, it’s just that...

Recognition flooded his face as Jericho said, my death does, eh?

Asa said, well, yeah. It just scares the B-Jesus outta me.

Jericho smiled and replied, ah, everybody dies, at one time or other, Asa. He cleared his throat and said, I’ve been around it. Lived with it. Lost good friends to it. Even caused a few myself. 'Course, that’s been some time ago. A long time ago.

He looked at his grandchildren with trepidation and they watched him with an awed expression. He wiped his mouth with an open hand and then turned to Asa. Death is as natural as life, Asa. He leaned heavily on an arm of the chair. Your brother, Reuben is face to face with it as we speak, off fighting this damned war.

Jericho sniffled as he fought back his emotions and waited for a response. Getting none, he sat further back in his armchair and cleared his throat as he pushed his bifocals back onto the bridge of his nose. He watched the faces of Asa and his grandchildren and was not happy at what he saw.

Asa frowned and asked, do we have to talk ’bout this, Dad?

With raised eyebrows, Jericho replied, you brought it up, Asa, by telling Dan’l...

Asa’s eyes narrowed. Yeah, well can we change the subject?

Jericho calmly replied, I would like that. He smiled at his grandkids. So would the kids. They smiled back. While turning to look at Asa, Jericho pointed to the grandkids and said, See?

The subject was changed. It took a few minutes, but eventually, the tension in the room eased and was replaced with goodhearted humor and laughter.

Asa said, oh, Dad? I almost forgot. He took two cigars form his inside jacket pocket.

Jericho’s eyes widened as he smiled. He sat forward in his armchair and said, well now, looky at what we got here. He reached out and took a cigar from Asa’s hand. Asa was smiling. My mouth is watering.

I knew this would get your attention, Asa said.

You know me well, my son! You know me well. Jericho passed the cigar under his nose and inhaled deeply, saying, Ahh! Now, that’s to my liking.

Asa said, I don’t exactly know what kind these are, Dad, but they sure do smell good.

Yeah, and they’ll taste real good with whatever we have to drink later.

Asa said, I believe they’ll pair up nicely. Both men chuckled with great anticipation.

Then, Sarah and Karen came into the room carrying a tray of sandwiches, coffee, and milk.

Sarah said, I was telling Karen here we didn’t have lunch. We had so much to do, we worked right through it. As Sarah and Karen began to pass out lunch, she said, so, we made sandwiches for everybody.

Jericho replied, why, thank you, Hon.

Both women said, You’re welcome. They both stopped and looked at each other in surprise. It was then realized that Jericho was talking to Sarah. Noticing the expression on their faces, they all laughed.

Amidst his chuckling, Jericho said, and, thank you, Karen. It was real swell of ya.

Karen said, we had a light lunch ourselves, earlier while we were getting packed to come here. So, hopefully, this will suffice 'til supper.

Asa said, this’ll be just fine. Thank you.

Both women, again said, you’re welcome. And, again, they all laughed.

They engaged in idle chit chat as they ate their lunch. Laughter broke out amongst them at times. Humor always did reside in the James’ household. Jericho always did say, if ya can’t laugh at yourself, don’t ever laugh at anyone else. A rule he has kept to this day. He did his best to instill that rule into his children, Asa, his first born, Erica, his only daughter, and Reuben, the last, but, definitely not least.

Jericho was at his best when he was surrounded by his family, in his remaining years, though two were missing. Erica was married to Tom Haggerty who was a politician, trying to become a senator for the state of West Virginia. They were away a lot on the campaign trail. At the last poll, if you can trust such a thing, Tom had the front runner on the run, and was catching up fast. They hoped soon to overtake the lead. Jericho always knew Erica married well.

Reuben was in the U.S. Army, fighting in France with his regiment. The first modern mechanized war fought by the U.S. Army where tanks and airplanes were used in battle. Reuben had never married. He had graduated from Annapolis just before war broke out. Jericho and Sarah worried constantly for Reuben’s safety, though you could never tell it.

Jericho was very proud of his children and the people they had become. They had become goodhearted, loving people with jocularity thrown in for good measure.

In a letter from Erica, she let it be known that she was pregnant, which pleased Jericho and Sarah to no end. He and Sarah were very excited about the baby. A new grandbaby! That was to Jericho’s liking. He thought the world of his grandkids. They were his life. Sarah would often say, without his grandkids, I believe Jerry would just roll over and die.

Asa and Karen gave him, Jessica, their first, who at this time, was ten years old. Leah, the middle child was eight years old. And, then there was Daniel. He was five years old. Jericho had given each grandchild a pet name, by which he often called them. Jessica’s pet name was Goober, his little peanut. Leah’s pet name was Pooter, for her genteel ways. And, Daniel? Well, his pet name was, Uglier’n me, to which Daniel would reply, Ugly me. Jericho just could not help but laugh at that.

As Sarah and Karen took away the cups, glasses, and trays from lunch, Asa turned to his father and asked, has Mom been taking her medicine like Doc Campbell told her to?

Like clockwork, Son. I won’t let her do otherwise. Ya know that.

Good. Good, said Asa. This blood disorder ain't nothing to sneeze at, ya know?

Jericho replied, tell me something I don’t know, Asa. But yeah, she’s doing okay with it. She’s a strong, hard-headed woman, Asa. You know that as well as I do.

Jessica said, "you’re just like grandma in some ways, Dad.

Chuckling, Daniel said, yeah. Hard-headed! Jericho, Jessica, and Leah chuckled along with Daniel.

Asa said, ah, so, ya think that’s funny, do ya, Dad?

Nope. I think it’s hilarious!

Oh, ha, ha, ha, replied, Asa. Remember, like father, like son.

Asa gave Daniel a disturbing glare and warned, I’ll tend to you later. Asa turned to his Dad. Me and Karen have been worried ‘bout you and Mom living way out here.

We’re fine as frog’s hair, Son. Jericho raised an eyebrow. And, what’s wrong with where we live?

Asa replied, well, Dad, you and Mom are so far outta town and you have no telephone. If anything was to happen, how would anyone know?

It never bothered you when you kids was growing up, but now it does, huh?

Well, yeah it does, Asa replied. You and Mom ain't getting any younger, and...

Jericho interrupted, I’m well aware of that, Son.

Asa said, I know ya are, Dad, but if ya don’t care for the modern conveniences, at least put in a telephone in case of emergencies.

Leah said, a telephone would be nice, Grandpa. If anything should happen...

Jericho said, I do have an automobile. I’m not too fond of it, but I do have it. And, if anything was to happen, I could take it to town. If not, I have the buggy.

Well, what if it was to happen to you? God forbid! Asa said. Then, with concern on his face, he asked, does Mom know how to drive the car? It would be a whole lot faster than the buggy.

I tried to teach her to drive, but she just gets all flabbergasted and quits. She says there’s too many things to remember and it just ain't worth it.

Well, there ya are, Asa said, matter-of-factly. Put in a telephone, Dad. Please? Could ya do that, huh?

Jericho chuckled and said, okay, okay. I’ll go to town come Monday and see what can be done, if that’ll suit your fancy.

It does, Asa said and smiled. If you or Mom can’t be moved, well then, the telephone will bring help to you. Understand, Dad?

Jericho chuckled and said, uh huh, and I’ll send you the bill. How’s that?

Asa replied, "the bill? For what?

For the telephone. Your idea! Your money!

Asa stared at his father with a sorrowful expression making Jericho laugh. While reaching out his hand, he jokingly said, let’s have that cigar back.

Tapping the cigar in his shirt pocket with his fingers, Jericho smiled and said, oh, I don’t think so.

As the warmth of the fire permeated the room, a few seconds of silence fell between him and Asa. Asa stood, warming his hands by the fire. He periodically looked at his Dad. Finally, he asked, Dad? Have ya taken care of the livestock?

Yeah. What I could. Your mother helped, but it was just too Dad blasted cold to do anything for too long. Jericho waved his hand in the air. The rest will have to wait.

Looking at his children, Asa said, alright, Kids. Dress warmly ‘cause we’re gonna do what your grandpa and grandma couldn’t get done.

All three kids' eyes widened as they yelled, what!

Asa said, you heard me. Now get!

The children lazily, and with a look of the downtrodden, rose from their place on the floor.

As he started to rise from his chair, Jericho said, I’ll help.

Asa lightly touched his Dad on the shoulder. Not this time, Dad. You stay put. Me and the kids can handle this, so you just stay where ya are. Just tell me what needs done and we’ll see it gets done.

Jericho looked at his son with love. Asa smiled back with the same emotion. Are you sure, Asa?

Smiling, Asa replied, I’m as sure as you’re sitting there. So, what needs done?

Jericho reflected on that a few seconds, then said, well, I took care of the horses as best I could. Your mother, she milked the cows and fed the chickens. Just little odds and ends need done, Asa, that I recall.

Well, whatever I find not done, we’ll get done. I’ll just give the horses the once over to make sure you didn’t miss anything. Asa’s eyes widened. Oh, not that I’m saying you did, Dad, but, it being so cold, you could have by just wanting to get back into the warmth of the house.

Jericho chuckled and said, I got the gist of that, Son. Rubbing his chin in thought, he said, very well coulda missed something. Who knows? He studied his son’s face. Sure I can’t help? Just then, a vein popped out in his neck when he remembered and he pointed at Asa and said, I forgot to slop the hogs, Asa. Dad gumit, anyways!

Asa chuckled and said, simmer down, Dad, or you’ll bust a gut.

Jericho chuckled and said, I’m lucky a few buttons didn’t pop.

That woulda been funny, Dad. Asa said, chuckling. You all gussied up and buttons flying ‘round like peas out of a pea shooter.

I reckon you’re right, Son. Jericho smiled. That woulda been funny.

You just sit by the fire, Dad, Asa said. Me and the kids can handle things.

Jericho gazed at his son and said, if you’re sure I can’t...

Would ya just quit that. You’re beginning to pester me some. We can handle things. Now, you’ve done enough today. You and Mom, so let me handle this.

Jericho’s face lit up. Okay, Son.

Good. Good. Now, you just rest easy and we shouldn’t be too long. Asa turned to walk away, but turned and said, you just warm yourself and get comfortable.

Being as he was still seated in his armchair, Jericho gave a sweeping gesture with his right arm and said, as you wish, kind Sir.

Asa replied, with a lopsided grin, oh, quit, ya nimrod.

Jericho laughed at that, and watching his Dad laugh, caused Asa to laugh as well.

As Asa gathered the grandkids and tended to the rest of what didn’t get done, Jericho sat by the warmth of the fire. His eyes glinted at the embers as the flames darted upwards in red spears, only to peak in orange arrows. The firelight glowed in his eyes as he took his silver pocket watch from his left front vest pocket and pushed the pin. The cover sprang open and he looked at the time. He snapped the cover back and returned it to his vest pocket. Just then, the grandfather clock in the hallway began to chime. Jericho smiled as he looked towards it. Right on time, he said. Two thirty.

Sarah came from the kitchen with a fresh cup of coffee for Jericho. As she passed through the foyer she noticed the cup of cold coffee sitting on the window sill and stopped and looked pathetically at the cup. Well, of all the... Then, her face flushed. Pointing at the cup, she said, don’t go nowhere. I’ll be right back.

Taking the cup of fresh coffee into the living room, she handed it to Jericho. Taking the cup, Jericho said, why, thanks, Hon. Coffee sounds good.

Then, the noise of clatter and stomping of feet was heard coming from the kitchen. Sarah and Jericho gazed in that direction. A second or two later, in came Asa and the grandkids. They entered the foyer as Sarah joined them and began taking off their heavy winter coats and hanging them in the closet.

Sarah took the cup of cold coffee from the window sill and looking at her son and grandchildren, she said, what in the world?

Asa closed the closet door. just making sure ya didn’t forget anything, Mom.

As her mouth curved into a smile, Sarah asked, well, what made ya think we forgot something, Asa?

Well, the way Dad said it, it sounded like ya coulda forgot something. So, me and the kids went to take care of what wasn’t.

Bewildered, Sarah said, But... Shaking her head, she said, oh, never mind.

Asa saw she had a cup of coffee in her hands and asked, is that coffee for me, Mom?

What? No, Asa. This coffee is cold. It's been sitting on that window sill for quite some time. I’ll fetch ya a fresh hot cup.

Asa smiled and said, thanks, Mom. I could use some.

Sarah turned to go into the kitchen. Without turning, she said, come along, Girls.

Jessica and Leah looked at each other and both shrugged their shoulders, then followed Sarah into the kitchen while Asa and Daniel went into the living room.

As they entered the living room, Jericho came to the edge of his chair and asked, well?

Not much to do, Dad. Just a few odds and ends to take care of. I did slop the hogs, though.

Good, Jericho said, leaning on one arm of the chair. Good. Asa sat himself down on the couch across from his Dad as Daniel took a seat beside him. Jericho glared at Asa with a questioning look.

Noticing the look, Asa said, everything is just fine, Dad. Not much you and Mom missed. I checked the horses over and they're fit as a fiddle.

Smiling from ear to ear, Jericho settled back in his armchair a happy man. That’s good to hear, Son. I was afraid I had forgotten something or another. It’s a deep freeze out there. His eyes lit up as he leaned forward. Did ya think to put a blanket on Laddy and Lady, Asa?

Chuckling, Asa replied, you had already done so, Dad. Don’t fret none. Everything is just fine.

Jericho resettled himself in his armchair. A few seconds of silence followed. Grandpa? asked Daniel.

Yes, Dan’l?

What made you and Grandma come back to West Virginia? Daniel asked. After being in so many other places? You coulda settled down anywhere. Why here?

Jericho answered readily. Well, Uglier’n me, this is my home. Well, our home and...

Daniel interrupted, it is now, yeah, but...

Yes, it is now. It was back then, as well. Jericho’s eyes narrowed. Funny how things work themselves out. He cleared his throat. I ran away from home to follow a dream, Dan’l. Whatever suited my fancy, I was fond of saying. He chuckled. Still do, at times. He shifted himself to a more comfortable position. Sure, I ran away, but this has always been home. I just didn’t know it at the time. My pa lived here, as well as his pa before him. Home, to me, was wherever I hung my hat. Being footloose and fancy free, I hung my hat in many places, Dan’l. But here is where I hung my hat for good. I had done a lot of living, ‘cept not here, as well you know from the story I been telling. Your grandma talked me in to coming back and seeing the old place. I resisted, of course, but she can be very persuasive, your grandma. She took one look at this place and was instantly in love with it. I tried to dissuade her, but it got me nowhere. So, we settled here. Jericho chuckled. It just goes to show ya, I can, at times, be wrong. Not that I’d fess up to it readily, but it can, and does happen.

This has been my home, too, Dan, Asa said. His eyes gleamed over as he looked at his son. This is beautiful country! God’s country. His face lit up. "I loved growing