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    "Trail Dust 2" {A Joshua Brandt novel}: 1, #2
    "Trail Dust 2" {A Joshua Brandt novel}: 1, #2
    "Trail Dust 2" {A Joshua Brandt novel}: 1, #2
    Ebook268 pages4 hours

    "Trail Dust 2" {A Joshua Brandt novel}: 1, #2

    By John Miller

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    The Trail Dust story continues as Joshua and his deputies set up a base camp for operations in Cheyenne Wyoming. He enjoys his time with Mac and his nephew. But a lawman has no time to rest. He and his deputies get a plea for help from a local rancher whose cattle are being rustled and finds out there is more going on than meets the eye. Joshua discovers how men can change their ways for good and bad when he is accused of a crime he didn’t commitment. Can an outlaw be the answer he needs for help in clearing his good name with the people of Cheyenne? Joshua learns that revenge can reach beyond the grave when a dead man wants it bad enough.

    Joshua sat down and gave a nod to Cody. Cody followed Joshua’s eyes toward the bar. He gave him a slight nod in return. Anna saw the exchange between the two of them and she twirled at her hair turning to glance at the bar. Thomas and Kenny both bowed their heads slightly and they sat there not making any moves, acting like nothing was wrong. Brennan leaned into Joshua. “Give me your gun belt under the table. I will face them.”
    “You know I can let you do that.”
    “I know you don’t trust me, and I don’t blame you. But you’re not fast enough to face them.”
    “Sorry, but it’s my job —“ Joshua stopped his sentence when he felt the barrel of a gun stuck in his rib cage.
    Brennan whispered, “I won’t shoot you to kill you; I will shoot you in the leg to stop you, and it will hurt like hell. Now slowly give me the other pistol you have on your left side. Don’t let on like anything is happening. Do it nice and easy.” Joshua reached down under the table and handed Brennan his Colt. “I’m going to stand up now and face those two men. Don’t try and stop me. If for some reason I get killed. I just want you to know I had a great time tonight. I can die a happy man for knowing you and your deputies." 

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherJohn Miller
    Release dateAug 28, 2015
    ISBN9781516307401
    "Trail Dust 2" {A Joshua Brandt novel}: 1, #2

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      Book preview

      "Trail Dust 2" {A Joshua Brandt novel} - John Miller

      ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

      I would like to thank the fans of my Gladstone series and the new fans of my Trail Dust series for their support. I would also like to thank Mark E. Clason for his editing work and his tutelage in making me a better writer. I’m thankful for having Mary C. Findley as my cover designer for the past years and she has never disappointed me in her designs. A big thank you goes out to my girlfriend DeeDee for her support in my writing. She has been behind me all the way, pushing me to be the best I can.

      INTRODUCTION

      It’s been a week now since the gunfight with Granger and his men. The town of Cheyenne has come to be quiet since. Joshua telegraphed Judge Calvin of the incident to keep him appraised of what he and his marshals have been up to. The judge thought it would be best for the marshals to use Cheyenne as a base camp and keep watch on the surrounding territory from there. He also told them to hold up for the winter and resume their duties in the spring. Joshua agreed with this and sent word back to the judge that he would keep him informed as needed. Sheriff Pembroke, along with two of his deputies that Granger had hired to run Cheyenne, was to be sent to Omaha for trial. Four Pinkerton detectives were traveling by train to Chicago and stopped in town for a day. Joshua asked if they would escort the sheriff and the two deputies to Omaha for him. The men were hesitant until Joshua paid them with money from his own pocket. The four men wholeheartedly agreed and left with their prisoners the next day.

      Joshua and Cody went out to Granger’s house to see if he had any kin that might show up later and send a telegram to notify family members of his death. The two looked for telegrams, letters, mail, or any item that might be helpful. They didn’t find anything useful in the mail, but did find a large safe in one of the rooms and had the town locksmith open it for them. The safe contained mining rights, land deeds that Granger had stolen from homesteaders heading west, and a large amount of money. The one interesting thing Joshua found was the leather-bound ledger in which Granger kept records of all his financial transactions. It had the exact amount of money he had obtained under duress from the business owners of Cheyenne and was accurate to the last penny. The two marshals went one by one visiting the names from the ledger that had money taken from them and returned the proper amount back to the rightful owners. Cody and Joshua both agreed that some of the money should go to DeeDee and the saloon owner, since they were forced to let the men Granger hired eat and drink whiskey for free. Both were excited to receive the compensation. DeeDee wanted to use the thousand dollars to expand her hotel. The remaining seven thousand two hundred thirty dollars, minus the money Joshua paid the Pinkerton men, was deposited into the bank under Joshua and Cody’s name in case a family member would show up to claim it. The town members of Cheyenne were at ease now, since the marshals arrived, and they were glad they were going to stay awhile.

      Cheyenne required a new sheriff and there was an election coming soon for the two men that applied for the job. The mayor was pleased with Joshua’s manner on how he handled himself and wanted him to be the sheriff. Joshua, in turn, declined the mayor’s offer because he didn’t want to give up his duties as a federal marshal just yet. The mayor understood his reason and respected his wishes, but told Joshua the job was available if he changed his mind.

      Mac was still in bad shape from the beatings he took from Granger’s deputies and Joshua wanted to give him some time to heal before he broke the sad news about their parents. He felt it best to tell him when the time was right and was in no rush to do it. Mac’s wife came back from Denver. She has not left his side and has been tending to his wounds ever since her return.

      PART ONE

      Joshua came down the stairs from his room and sat down at a table in the middle of the dining area of the hotel. He looked over to his left and saw a man and woman having breakfast. They waved at him. He smiled and tipped his hat in return. He noticed five men playing cards about three tables away. He heard DeeDee’s voice behind him.

      Morning, Joshua. Would you like some coffee?

      That would be nice, thank you.

      DeeDee walked back to the kitchen while Joshua sat there watching the men play cards. She returned a minute later and sat down a coffee cup. Joshua looked up at her and in a low voice he asked, How long have they been playing cards?

      She leaned into him and whispered. All night, I was going to close at eleven, but they insisted on playing and wouldn’t leave when I asked them to. I had Franklin stay all night to keep an eye on them. I sent him home an hour ago when I came down to start breakfast.

      Have they caused any trouble?

      No, but Franklin told me they have been drinking all night. I’m surprised they’re still awake and playing.

      I will keep a watch on them for you.

      She smiled and tilted her head. I figured you would. Then she walked away from the table.

      Joshua reached down and slid the lash off of his pistols, then took a sip from his coffee cup.

      Four soldiers came through the door, then walked over to a table and sat down. They all waved at Joshua and he gestured to them with a tip of his hat. The morale of the soldiers has improved, now that they are allowed in town since Major Burrows took command of Fort Russell. The incident with Colonel Graham being accused of treason and bribery, along with his death in the gun battle, has made the soldiers respect the major more for his part in finding the truth.

      Joshua was about to take another drink from his cup when one of the card players stood up and yelled at another man sitting at the table. You cheated me, said the man as he swayed back and forth trying to keep his balance.

      I did no such thing. I beat you fair and square.

      You cheated me! I don’t like cheaters, the standing man said trying to reach for his gun.

      Joshua stood and yelled out to him. I wouldn’t do that if I were you!

      The man looked back at him still trying to fumble for his pistol with no avail. But marshal, he cheated me, he replied slurring his words.

      Joshua walked over to the table and stood there glaring at him. You shoot him and he dies, I will have to arrest you for murder, and I would have to be an eyewitness at your trial. I think the three men sitting here, along with the soldiers and that nice couple trying to enjoy their morning breakfast, would also be witnesses. So it’ll be a cut and dry verdict on you being convicted and hanged. It’s your choice.

      The man stood there sizing up Joshua, trying to think of what to do. Joshua squinted at him. And if you even think of pulling that pistol, I would have no choice in shooting you myself to protect this man from getting injured or killed.

      The man’s face went pale. He stopped reaching for his pistol and held his hands up. Ok, you’re right. But I still say he cheated me.

      Joshua looked down at the suspected cheater. Did you cheat this man?

      No, sir, marshal. I swear. I won fair and square. See? He pointed to his cards lying on the table. Joshua looked down and saw four eights and a jack of spades. He looked over to the other side of the table at the cards lying in disarray. The man standing had four twos and an ace of hearts. He looked to the man standing. Looks like you lost this hand honestly.

      There is no way he could have beaten me while I’m holding four deuces! He has to have some cards up his sleeve!

      Joshua grinned at the man. His sleeves are rolled up. How could he be hiding any cards?

      The man stood there and thought a moment, scratching his head. Now that you mention it, that would be kind of hard to hide cards there.

      Joshua laughed and told the man to sit down. Now, I’m going to take the money from this hand and split the pot with you both. Is that fair?

      The suspected cheater looked up to Joshua. But I won this pot, marshal.

      Joshua looked at him puzzled. I just stopped this man from shooting you.

      Oh, all right. I think that’s fair.

      Joshua turned to the other man. That ok with you? He didn’t answer him back, he just shook his head yes. Joshua counted the money from the pot into two stacks. He slid the money in front of each man. Now all is set right. I do think you boys need to go home, sleep this off, and to make sure there are no hard feelings until you do, Joshua reached out with his hands to the two men. I want to collect both of your guns until you two get over your drunken spell. You can pick them up in the morning at my office.

      The men slowly reached down, pulled their pistols, and laid them on the table. Sorry, marshal. I’m glad you made me see the light, said the man that started the incident.

      That’s what I’m here for. Now, go home. Joshua collected the pistols, walked over to his table, and sat down. He laid the guns on the table in front of him and took a sip from his coffee cup. The five men staggered out the doorway mumbling amongst each other. DeeDee came over and patted him on the shoulder. I’m glad you’re here in Cheyenne, Joshua. This town needs a calm and honest law man in it after what we had to endure.

      Just tryin’ to do what’s right.

      She smiled down at him. Would you like some more coffee?

      Yes, I would. Thank you.

      Joshua heard a clapping sound and turned to the noise. Cody was walking down the stairs smiling and clapping his hands together. Our hero. I see you like making new friends early in the morning.

      How long have you been up there watching me?

      Long enough to make sure you wouldn’t get into any trouble.

      I see. Will you stop that clapping? You’re going to wake everyone up.

      Cody sat down next to him and leaned in close. He gently clapped his hands together. I had to get that last one out of me.

      Joshua laughed at his old friend. I see you’re in a good mood this morning.

      DeeDee came over to the table with a coffee pot and topped off Joshua’s cup. Morning, Cody. Isn’t it a beautiful morning? she said with a big grin on her face.

      Cody looked up to her and smiled. Not as beautiful as you, my dear.

      She giggled from the comment, all the while Joshua tilted his head back and rolled his eyes. Would you like some coffee as well, Cody?

      I sure would. She stood there a moment grinning down at Cody, turned and walked away from the table.

      I sure do like Cheyenne. I’m glad we came out here, Cody said with a huge smile. Joshua took a sip of his coffee while smirking.

      I see you and DeeDee are courting.

      You could say that. She is a fine woman, and handsome at that.

      DeeDee came back to the table, sat a cup down, and poured Cody his coffee. Would you two like any breakfast?

      I’m fine for now. replied Joshua.

      I could use some food. Whatever you have I will eat. I’m not picky, Cody said with a smile.

      DeeDee beamed at Cody and left the two men.

      Where is Anna this morning? asked Cody.

      She is still in bed, I let her sleep in. Why are you up so early?

      I had a feeling you might have needed me. I’ll bet you a dollar Anna likes sleeping in a hotel better than the stables.

      Joshua sat his cup down and laughed. Maybe, but she didn’t mind the stables.

      She is a good woman, has to be to put up with you.

      Thomas came through the front door with a large older gentleman and a teenage boy behind them. He saw the two marshals sitting at the table and motioned the man and the boy over to them. Joshua looked up as Thomas approached them. Morning, Joshua, Cody. This is Mr. William Dobson. He wants to speak with you. Thomas stood aside as the large man stopped at the end of the table and put out his hand.

      I’m Joshua Brandt and this is my deputy, Cody Wilkes. What can I do for you, Mister Dobson?

      The man let go of Joshua’s hand. My friends call me Big Bill.

      Alright, Big Bill, have a seat.

      The man sat down and took off his hat. I need your help, marshal. I have a problem with cattle rustlers on my ranch. It’s about a day’s ride northwest of town. I heard about what you did for Cheyenne and was wondering if you could help me.

      I’m not sure what you’re asking me to do.

      I was wondering if you could come out to my place and catch them in the act.

      Mr. Dobson ...

      The man cut him off. It’s Big Bill.

      Sorry, Big Bill, I still don’t understand what you want from me. It could take days or weeks for them to show back up. I can’t camp out there until they decide to come back.

      You won’t have to. They come back and take some of my cattle once a week. You can set your watch to it. They’re due back in two days.

      Joshua leaned forward in his chair. He looked at Big Bill with a confused look about him. You’re saying these men come by your ranch once a week and take your cattle?

      Yes, sir, they do. Only take five to ten head at time. It’s the damnedest thing I’ve ever seen, they been doing it going on a month now. Joshua sat back in his chair, rubbed his face as to think.

      Why can’t your men take care of the problem? asked Cody.

      Big Bill looked over to him. My men are cattlemen and ranch hands. They’re no good with guns. These rustlers are professional gunfighters. The first time they came, my son tried to stop them, he was shot and killed. This here’s my grandson. His pa died trying to protect the family name. He is all I have left. The others say that man was fast with a gun, fastest they have ever seen. So I told my men just to let them have the cattle so no one else would be killed.

      Cody looked with approval towards Big Bill. Then he looked over to Joshua, who had a look of pondering an idea of how to help. How many men come by and take your cattle? asked Joshua.

      There are eight of them. From what my men told me, there a mean looking bunch to say the least.

      So, captain, what are you thinking about? asked Cody.

      Joshua smiled at his friend, and then looked at Bill across the table. We can help you, but can you stay the night?

      Big Bill smiled back at him. I sure can, marshal. That won’t be a problem.

      Good then, I will have to take care of some matters here in town. I can’t leave Cheyenne without the law around. So give me until the morning and we can leave at first light.

      Bill smiled at Joshua, stood up from the table and put out his hand to him. Joshua shook it and Bill extended his hand to Cody. I thank you both. He let go of Cody’s hand and walked out of the hotel.

      So, what is the big idea you’re coming up with, captain?

      Joshua smiled and tilted his head. Well, I think you, me, Thomas, Anna, and Kenny can handle this.

      What about William? Cody asked with a puzzled look.

      I think I will leave him here in Cheyenne to take care of the town while were gone.

      You’re leaving the kid here alone? Do you think that’s wise?

      William has a good head on his shoulders and I think having him in charge while we are away would give him a good sense of responsibility. Besides, he won’t be completely alone.

      What do you mean by that?

      I think we should ride out to Fort Russell and have a talk with the major. Since his men are allowed in town now, and some soldiers are on leave enjoying the town’s hospitality, they could watch his back and help out with any trouble that might happen.

      Joshua looked up to Thomas, standing there like a stone statue. What do you think, Thomas? You’ve not said a word all this time.

      Thomas smiled down to him. I go with whatever you think be the best, Joshua.

      Cody smirked at Joshua, tilting his head back slightly. Always thinking, captain. I like that idea.

      Joshua and Cody arrived at Fort Russell; they were met by two guards standing post at the front gate. Morning, gentleman. Is Major Burrows around? asked Joshua.

      The soldier on the left spoke. Yes, sir, marshal. Is he expecting you?

      No, I’m unannounced, you could say.

      The soldier on the right spoke this time. It don’t matter, marshal. You are always welcome out here at the fort. Joshua tipped his hat and clicked for Chestnut to move forward.

      Marshal? The soldier on the left said. Joshua stopped Chestnut’s advance and turned his head to listen. I had me a steak dinner the other day at the hotel in town. As I was enjoying my meal, I was thinking of what your men and the major did to set things right. Just wanted you to know we think highly of you marshal, I mean all of you.

      Joshua smiled at the soldier. I think highly of you for wearing that uniform. The young soldier stood straight and smiled back at him. Joshua clicked again and Chestnut entered the fort alongside Cody.

      As the two men arrived at the major’s office, Cody dismounted and tied the reins to the hitching post. I see you got them fooled. Cody said with a smirk.

      Ha-ha. Joshua tied Chestnuts reins to the hitching post and heard the door creak. He looked up and saw Major Burrows coming through the threshold.

      Morning, Joshua, Cody. What brings you two out here so early in the morning?

      Joshua put out his hand to the major. I need a favor.

      Major Burrows let go of his hand. Whatever you need, just ask me.

      Well, there is some trouble with a rancher outside of town. Some men are rustling his cattle. He asked for our help and I’m leaving William alone to take care of Cheyenne while were gone.

      The major looked confused. So what do you want from me? Before Joshua could answer, a large man came out onto the porch and stood beside the major.

      Joshua, Cody, this is Captain Anderson. He was out on patrol and missed all the excitement last week. Joshua tipped his hat to him as did Cody.

      The captain looked the two marshals over and spoke. I’ve heard a lot about you and your deputies from the men. It’s an honor to meet you finally. Joshua grinned back to the captain.

      Major Burrows spoke. What’s this favor you need from me?

      While were gone, can you tell your men to keep an eye out when they’re in town? I’m hoping there won’t be any trouble. But if there is, can you tell your men to help out if there comes to be any?

      I can pass the word along to the men when they leave for town. I don’t see that as being any problem. The men are happy since they can come and go from the fort now, thanks to you and your deputies.

      Your men helped out, too. And one more thing, have your men not say anything to William. I want this to be our secret, replied Joshua.

      I will make sure the men know not to say a word. The major stepped closer to Joshua. Are you going to need any help with this cattle business?

      Why, are you volunteering your services? Joshua asked with a grin.

      I might be able to use a night or two from the fort, camp out under the stars, you could say. Captain Anderson took a step next to major

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