The trouble was her heart wasn't his and as she woke from this nightmare she spoke into the night to the man whom she held in the highest regard; “Jason; I'm so sorry my love.”

 

CHAPTER 5: LIGHT MUSICAL MEMORIES

 

Jack was proudly sharpening his favourite plane on the grinding stone when he heard a motor car hoot. He couldn't be sure as the noise from the blade against stone along with motor made it all a bit muzzy.

“Is that a visitor I hear?” He questioned seeing his wounded son make a move towards the cottage.

Jason walked gingerly through back of cottage and on towards front door. Upon opening it he found it was the last person on earth apart from Carrie he would set his eyes upon.

“What do you want?”

The man with freshly pressed uniform laughed as he found the need to admonish the tall lump of lard; “My good fellow; is that really the way you address a friend bearing gifts.”

“I don't see…” He was going to say friend when his dad came through.

“Hello there Mister Wolfgang sir; what a pleasant surprise! What can I do for you?”

“Nothing; it's what I can do for you.” He snapped his fingers and a man hurried forth with a large gramophone; “I never forget a promise dear chap and wanted you to have this.”

Jack got out of the way and pulled on his son to do same as the chap entered with gramophone.

“I have a selection of classical composures and all I hope to your liking. Mozart is extremely sensational on one of these things; never have to visit a concert hall again.”

“Not that we ordinary folk know what a concert is like.” Jason added as he cast a half scowl at Peterson.

“Never had the money to appreciate an actual orchestra in action.”

Wolfgang all chirpy as the birds this morning added to the aid; “Then permit me to invite you to a chance at sampling such live music.”

“What's that; you're leaving party?”

He laughed at the big lad again; “Hah ha! That's a good one dear boy and in a way true.” He pointed to his upper lip; “Like the tash it's coming on a treat; all the boys at the airstrip are excited.”

“About your moustache?” Jack asked feeling confused at the diversity of subjects which were all oddly linked together somehow.

“No, no dear friend; my imminent engagement to Carrie Claybourne and my abrupt departure to France for a short while; just so much to do with so little time.”

“Congratulations and may I be one of the first to wish you happiness.”

“Thank you Jack.” Wolfgang looked at Jason; “And what about you? Will you wish me all the joy in the world?”

“I thank you for giving my da this musical instrument.”

“Ah; I see.” His smile was gone for a little while before returning; “I have an invite to our engagement; hand written for now though the official one will be in post very soon. I look forward to having you both there.”

“Would you like a tea or something stronger?” Jack offered and saw Wolfgang look at the stony face of his son.

“No thanks; must be back off to the airfield for my duty on.” He saluted them both before saying his farewells in the form of; “Pip, pip old chap; and Jason could I have a quiet word.”

Jason nodded and as he was about to follow the guy out his father tugged his shirt.

“Now don't go being a hot head and knocking his block off.”

Jason raised his eyes heavenward as he suddenly realised that's the type of thing he wanted to do. Once outside he saw Peterson by his car.

“You don't like me much do you?”

“Very perceptive of you.”

Wolfgang turned to face him; “Look, I know you think I am not the right one for Miss Carrie and that you both have a history. But…”

“But what sir?”

He showed irritation at the guy for making him lose his train of thought. Wolfgang took a deep breath before running on a similar track.

“I want to make sure of Carrie's happiness. Can you leave out the hostilities and attend the engagement and at least show her support by accepting me. It would break her heart if you and I came to blows.”

Jason stood back and laughed to himself.

“What's so funny?”

“You trying to think you have Miss Claybourne's best interests at heart. You are a spoilt frightened boy looking through the eyes of a man.”

“How dare you!”

“And how dare you think you can make a lass like Carrie happy.” Jason moved right up to the chap; so close he felt the man's trembling breath upon his chest and face. “Mark my word Peterson; you make her life a misery and I shall come down on you like a ton of bricks.”

Peterson swallowed hard as he looked up; “And I hope you will keep the peace at our engagement party.”

“Aye I will and I promise to be your pal.” He smiled; “and thanks again for the gramophone.”

Wolfgang got into his car and as he was about to go he decided to tell the guy one more thing; “Oh and Jones dear fellow.”

“Yes Wolfgang?”

“Watch someone doesn't ruin that pretty head of yours by putting a bullet through it.” He smiled as he drove away waving and shouting; “See you at the engagement.”

Jason came back in and swore at the guy.

“Wash your mouth out boy; I'll not tolerate that kind of mouth in my house.” Jack observed the look on his son's face. “You didn't threaten him did you?”

“I just was making sure that if Carrie married him; he was to take good care of her.”

Jack placed a big black disc looking thing down; “You didn't thump him?”

“No, no!” Jason replied as he felt an evil threat hang upon him much like a curse; “He just threatened to put a bullet in me head.”

“Do you think he'd do that? I would report his threats to police.”

“Nah; it's only my word against his. The police would laugh at me making an accusation against a respected man.”

“Then what are you thinking of doing?”

“He's a born coward if I have ever set my eyes on one. He won't touch me and he won't have bottle to stop me taking Carrie for a dance at his party.”

Jack felt cold even though the day was a warm one; “Just don't push a frightened man; in desperation they can do really evil things.”

“Aye da; I'll watch my back. I did it with the Bowen boys and I can do it again.”

 

The sun rose into the sky and before long the day of dread fell upon Jason as he took the freshly made pair of doors up to the house. The place was a whirlwind of activity as the whole house was in the throws of being spruced up for this dreaded engagement.

“Are those the new doors you've been telling me about?” Claybourne shouted out as he greeted Jones senior but kept it just to a nod for his son.

“Yes Mister Claybourne sir; those be the doors.”

“Not very colourful are they?”

“That's because we haven't hung them; they need to be put on before we can paint them.”

“I see.” Gerald replied in kind to the still aggressive sounding son; “Well, let me not hold the workers up.”

As Jack watched the gentleman of the house leave he cast his son a frown; “ Don't be rude; we need the money boy.”

“I wasn't aware I was being rude; I was just being straight with the gentleman.”

“Aye; well try and flower it a little.”

They took one of the big doors and with the help of another two pressed surfs they managed to get it leant up. Half hour passed while they had trouble taking old left door off. As they had just done that Jason noticed Miss Carrie in the distance; she was watching him using one of the big hall mirrors. Then as he looked up she drifted away much like a ghost in the mist.

“She'll come round and say hello soon. You both are too good friends to allow one upset to becloud that.”

Jason heaved a heavy sigh; “That we know but she also knows that I would gladly trade that all in for her love.”

 

The afternoon rode on relentlessly and the summer heat was making all and sundry very hot and sweat ridden.

“I bet you yearn for that pool in the spinney now; don't you Mister Jones?”

Jason had been bent over in house taking up floorboards when the lady of his dreams walked silently up behind him. He jumped a little.

“It would be nice to go skinny dipping yes. Though I think I am a little too old for that now.” He looked at her and had to say; “I take it that congratulations is in order.”

She sat down cross legged by him; “I can see you will never agree and all I ask is that you respect my decision and will not harm Wolfgang.”

He chuckled; “I see that old Wolfie has been telling you about my threats.”

“Actually he hasn't said a word; it's because I know you Jas that I am well acquainted with how you react. You did it to my father.”

“That's not fair Carrie; I was protecting myself.”

She looked away; “I know I'm sorry for…”

“Don't be; we go way too far back for me to hold grudge over anything you do to me.”

“Does that mean you will drop being angry at Wolfgang and I?”

“I don't like it one bit; but as my father says, it's your life and you have made your decision. It's the wrong one but I will stand by you.”

She looked back into those blue eyes; “You will always look out for me won't you Jason?”

“That I will as you know how I feel.”

“Then say it again; just for me?”

He looked into her eyes and there it was; the love she kept hidden for him.

“I love you Carrie; for all time.”

She leaned forward pulling his warm face to her own; they touched their soft lips together and kissed.

As soon as he felt her lips he felt them drift away and as she stood up she made her apologies; “I'm sorry Jason; I shouldn't have done that… forgive me.”

The floor suddenly splintered before his eyes and gave way to blackness once more as his body fell into nothing before a bright light came out and pulled him to it.

 

“Jason; Jason are you awake? Can you hear me boy?” Jack woke with a fit and start as he felt his son say something. This necessitated the question he just asked.

Jason could only see light from one side and his father's face was partly obscured. “Is that you da?” Was that his voice; it sounded so strange and slurred. What had he been doing? Was this another cruel dream and a man was going to shoot him again.

“Aye it's me boy, it's your pa.” Jack replied feeling a lump in his throat.

“Where am I?” Jason continued; “I was just putting floorboards in Claybourne's house; Carrie just kissed me and…I'm here.”

“You are in Saint Mary's hospital.”

Jason allowed those words to sink in as he reached gently up to remove the bandage over one eye.

“What are you doing? Best leave that on your head; it covers the wound.”

“My eye had been wounded?”

Jack frowned; “No above your eye is the bandage; got a bloom'in great hole in tut skull.”

Jason moved his fingers down to his eye and felt the lid was closed then pushing it open he found nothing. Panic set in; “I can't see nowt out of my eye!”

Jack wasn't too happy about it either and ran down the hallway to get a doctor and tell of the mixed news.

After a few tests the doctor confirmed Jason was blind in one eye and probably due to the bullet in the skull and the angle of entry.

“Is there anything we can do doctor?” Jack asked a whisper.

“I'll be frank with you Mister Jones; I have witnessed several entry wounds such as your son's and I don't think he will get his sight back. Also most men live may be a few years; no more.”

“I see and I thank you for your honesty; you can get into believing anything when your loved one comes round. They told me the news about what to expect and when they don't die but come round you tend to forget about other problems and limited possibilities.”

“I'm sure your son will appreciate you back by his side.” Doctor Main added; “He's a strapping lad; makes the best case for recovery in my books.”

Jack patted the doc on the back before walking into the room to be with his boy who out of exhaustion was asleep once more.

 

Mists of time passed by fast and as Jason focussed on the present he found the mist gone and a clear vision of the night; but which night?

The music ground to an abrupt halt as many rushed to the big ballroom and he found himself being pushed through to find the scene he remembered.

“Ah the engagement announcement.”

“It is with great pleasure that I am to be shortly handing over my beloved daughter to a fine outstanding man. I am pleased to announce the engagement of my daughter Carrie Claybourne to Wolfgang Peterson. Now all please raise your glasses and toast the happy couple to be.”

Jason found he had glass in hand and as all raised theirs he kept his low by his waste. The intended held out her bright sparking ring for all the unattached women to cackle over and the married ones to bitch about it being over the top.

“I noticed you didn't toast the happy couple?”

He turned sharply to his left to find a woman elegant in form and of modest beauty. Dark haired all pinned up at the back. Her make-up hid the scars of adolescence. He was caught out by her question.

“Pardon me?”

“I was asking why you are not toasting the happy couple?” She eyed him up and down; “Though I think I can understand why.”

Jason smiled; “Then please do tell me, after I have had the pleasure of asking you your name?”

“ Katherine Lake ; soon to be widow Lake .”

This caught him off guard; “I'm sorry to hear that my lady. May I offer my sympathies for your imminent loss.”

“Thank you. My husband insisted that I attend this function. He is a friend of both families present.” She smiled at him and enquired of his name.

“Jason…Jason Jones.”

“Carpenter extraordinaire; love the work you have done on those main doors.” She stamped on the floor; “And the fixing down of these boards.”

“Actually my da..um father put those doors up and made them.”

She nodded; “I'm sure you didn't stand around and watch. You are a good experienced lad and those doors show good carvings… not forgetting the floor.”

Jason felt a little flushed; “Aye I did the carving work. Gerald… Mister Claybourne insisted on some kind of family crest on there of both families merging together to form one.”

“Why did you do it? After all a little birdie informs me of your protests against this alliance of houses.”

“Then that bird is twittering a wrong tune. I have no objections now.”

She laughed as she grabbed hold of his arm; “Trust me I know a thing or two about jealousy and how it rots a man to the core until he can't think let alone act straight.”

“What makes you think I'm jealous?”

“Just the green round the gills look and the subtle lack of arm action when toasting.”

She moved closer to his shoulder and whispered in his ear; “Tell me the truth; is she worth it?”

He sighed as he divulged his thoughts; “Miss Carrie is worth laying down my life for.”

The lady laughed again as she whispered; “A true Knight in shining armour; just as Carrie said you are.” Then she added as she clutched tightly to him for fear he might want to slip away; “Could you be mine?”

He gave her a look as he fought against being pulled over by her constant tugging. “I am at a clear disadvantage as to who you are in relation to Miss Carrie.”

“I take that as a no then. Still I can understand as she is a crimson rose and I alas; just an old worn out looking common garden shrub. Some people would go so far as to say my face looks like a lettuce leaf that has been partially eaten by a caterpillar or slug; take your pick it's all the same.”

Jason took a good look at her and felt the need to repel that accusation; “I can not advocate that assessment Mrs Lake. There is the inner person of the heart that makes a woman or man.”

She laughed before taking a sip of his drink then adding; “That is just another polite way of telling a lady she is ugly.”

“Then there is little I can do to convince you of my sincerity in believing you to be an attractive woman.”

“You can always kiss me.”

If words like this makes one uneasy it was certainly doing it for Jason as he stood around noting a few turning to stare or frown.

“Just how many drinks have you downed my lady?”

She stared at him; “Enough to numb this heart of mine.”

That was when he got it much like a flash of light entering the mind and telling him one thing unseen here. “Your husband didn't let you come here; because he is already dead isn't he?”

Tears formed; “He has been dead for a month and I still cannot let him go. Carrie suggested I come as it might make me feel better.”

“Then I suggest Katherine that you and I leave this room and allow you the dignity of walking out. I'd hate to see a good friend of Miss Carrie's have her name besmirched.”

“I cannot rely on their sympathies if I fall flat onto my back?”

“This room is full of cold hearted cynics and gossips; they will gladly jump up and down to see you fall.”

She clutched more tightly now as her legs felt wobbly. “And what about you; do you care?”

“I care for your good name my lady; as for mine it can't get much lower.”

He managed to get her to a side room by almost dragging her along. Once on the sofa she was out for the count. He sighed a sigh of relief that the Lord of the manor hadn't seen him otherwise there might have been another unpleasant confrontation. Claybourne might have thought that he was taking an advantage of a widow or something equally full of filth that this detestable could think up.

“Someone has had a little too much to drink one thinks.”

He spun round and saw a friendly face in a place full of enemies; “Aye Miss Claybourne; your friend has had a little too much. I thought it appropriate to get her out of sight before people talked.”

“Always the country gent.”

He felt her close to him as he lay Katherine down onto the soft sofa in a more ladylike fashion.

“And I thought I was always going to be a common man.”

“Not in my eyes; you have the makings of a proper gentleman.”

He could see the sparkle in her eyes; it matched the gem she was wearing.

“Not enough money to afford diamonds of that likes.”

“Do you like it?” That was a silly question and blushed at her stupidity; “Of course you don't; sorry.”

“No don't be sorry; as long as you are happy that's all good for me. I'm only sorry I couldn't afford to buy you diamonds.”

“I'd never want diamonds from you Jas.”

“What do you want from me then?”

“The promise that you will be happy for me and will find happiness for yourself when I am gone.”

“Where are you off to when you tie the knot?”

It seemed strange to be talking about this and her emotions were all mixed up much like the drinks she had been offered; “Dayton House; by the coast about hundred miles from here. Mixed views; sea one side and a great moor about a mile from the grounds on most sides.”

“I know the place; went there once real bleak looking.” He thought about the dark images he was casting which matched his mood. He thought better and added; “Then again it was winter and very cold.”

“I never wanted you to love me you know.”

He laughed at her sudden outburst about love; “Trust me I never intended to fall in love with you. It's just I have and there is nothing I can do about that.”

“You can forget about me.”

He shook his head and laughed with derision; “My dear that may work for romantic novels with a writer who has little clue about love. This is reality and right now my heart is breaking over you and there is nothing I can do to get you to change your mind.”

“My hands are bound to this alliance; I have little choice as you full well know. Just take this into your mind and that is I love you and like you said it will be for eternity.”

They embraced and kissed before he pulled away from her. With emotions that were in danger of running free he pushed his love that way.

“We cannot do this; you have your world and I mine. I best stay here and take care of Miss Katherine.” He could see her trembling with her emotions which wasn't making it any better for him. “Tell me who she is to you?”

Carrie caught her breath to steady her voice amid fear of trembling before her man; “She is a good friend in whom I confided my trust and told her the truth about how I feel about you and about my family and of course Wolfgang.”

“And how long has she been without husband?”

“Not long; I encouraged her to come; but she has low self esteem and that has led her to drink I think.”

He could still see her hovering and urged her; “Go on get going; your fiancée will be looking for you and we know how jealous he'd be if caught in here with me.”

 

She left as quickly as she could after hesitating as a few casual strollers walked past the door. Then Carrie was gone and off back to the ballroom when she walked into her intended who grabbed hold tightly of her arm and took her upstairs.

“What do you think you are doing?”

“I saw you go with him.”

“But darling I was only checking on our friend Katherine Lake; you know her.”

“Oh no you were with him and acting much like a couple of lovers.”

“I suggest you get your hands off of me; I am not your possession yet.”

“An engagement is as good as marriage.” Wolfgang replied as he threw her into the bedroom and onto the bed.

With fear in her eyes and the look he was giving she pleaded; “Please Wolfgang do not do anything you might regret; listen to your voice of reason.”

“I am and it's time you became mine and no one else's.”

 

The party droned on and many wondered where the engaged happy couple had gone off to. Gerald paced around and found Jones in a room alone with an older lady.

“Have you seen my daughter?”

“Aye I did about half hour back; since then I have been in the company of the widow Lake.”

He eyed the man; “I saw her clutching hold of you; what's the matter with her?”

“She is unwell sir, I was making sure she is okay. I was hoping to appeal to your kindness to arrange a lift home for her.”

Claybourne wanted the lad to go and swim for it but that would be unkind to the lady sprawled out and obviously under the sauce.

“Okay I will arrange for Mrs Lake to get a ride home in my car.” He said this in a less than amicable way. “And you are sure you haven't seen my daughter and her…Wolfgang?”

Jason noted his change of words; “As I have already stated; Miss Claybourne left here after ascertaining I was more than capable of looking after her friend. I suggest you better ask around I am sure someone has seen them.”

Gerald felt unease; this wasn't like his daughter; it concerned him so visibly that he wasn't aware that Jones had picked up on it.

“What is it that you are worried about?”

“Sorry?”

“You are shaking man; what is it you are worrying about?”

“Nothing!” He snapped back. “I will arrange a car and find my daughter.”

Jack found Gerald leaving and clearly not himself; “Is my boy in there Mister Claybourne sir?”

“Yes; being a good Samaritan and taking care of a distressed lady.”

Jack went on it to find his son; “Something about you being a Samaritan was mentioned by Claybourne.”

“Aye; doing my best to keep a widow's dignity.”

“Looks like too much drink to me; by the smell of her breath.”

Jason nodded as unease crept into his soul.

“Da, have you seen the happy couple?”

“Not for a while; might be walk'in in moonlight.”

He stood up and looked at his dad. “Can you look after Miss Katherine while I go and check something out.”

“Okay; but don't start anything.”

“Da; don't keep saying that.”

Jack grinned; “Can't help it with you as trouble seems to follow you about.”

Jason took flight and knew all had been looking on ground floor but his instincts were to take a look upstairs.

 

Carrie said little as there was little to say to the man she was to wed; though he had some good things to say.

“Don't mention this to anyone; not even your father.” He smiled at her playing as if nothing was wrong. “Though he probably wouldn't find it at all wrong.” He pulled on her arm and went for the door with his love by his side.

“Am I supposed to act as if this was all a dream?”

“If you like.” Peterson shrugged his shoulders; “All I ask is that you act normal and wish our guests a goodnight. Later we will open the gifts and write our thank you's.”

 

Jason came down the long hallway and into the happy couple.

“Ah the man of the moment; I understand that you are looking after the late merry widow?”

Jason looked at the jolly man and then at Carrie. There was something not quite right about her.

“Aye been looking after your guests who are asking where you are.” Then he moved closer to this man; “So what have you been doing in the private quarters; in the family sleeping area?”

“I could ask you the same question my good fellow.”

“I came to check on a repair I did on one of the window seals in Lord's bedroom.”

“Come, come; do you really think I believe that fish wives tale?”

Jason scowled at Wolfgang feeling a loathsome hate for the slimy maggot; “I still want to know why you are up here with Miss Claybourne out of sight of all.”

“You forget easily; I am going to wed Carrie and we can have a private discussion wherever we like.” He tugged at his beloved's arm; “Isn't that right dear?”

Carrie didn't want to speak but had to nod and say; “That's correct. Our guests are waiting for us and I implore you to allow us to pass Mister Jones.”

Jason allowed the couple to pass by knowing all not to be well with Carrie. He called out to Peterson before the man mounted the corner; “Remember what I said Wolfgang and don't think that I won't carry out my promise.”

The man visibly quickened his pace down those stairs as Jason looked on from above.

 

“Old Miss Katherine has gone off in personal car with Claybourne.” Jack announced as he bounded up to his son.

“Less of the old da.”

“I suppose she is only ten years your senior.” Jack was backtracking as he changed the subject; “So where was the happy couple then? Did you find them?”

“Upstairs in the private quarters.” He wondered if he should carry on knowing his father might start; “Carrie wasn't herself; I reckon he's trying to put her under his thumb.”

“Don't jump to conclusions; let's just leave this place and head home; besides my feet are hurting from all that dancing and Wolfgang was right about one thing.”

Jason cast his father a sideways look as they headed for the door; “What could he ever be possibly right about?”

“That orchestra was very good!”

He put his arm round his dad and they made their way to the exiting couples. There he took hold of Carrie's hand as Wolfgang distanced himself and came face to face with Jason's dad.

“Nice orchestra that; you were right I did enjoy the live music. You know what?”

“What dear boy?” Peterson asked as he kept one eye on the other two.

“I am going to go home and listen to Mozart on that grand machine you gave me.”

 

“Carrie, what's happened?”

She smiled at him; “Nothings wrong; I'm just overtired and overawed by the kindness of all.”

“I wish you well even though it breaks my heart to do so.” He pulled her close to him as he smelt her perfume; a little more than usual. He noted a scarf a delicate silk one around her neck. He kissed her on the cheek and with his hand he moved the sweet smelling perfumed scarf down with his thumb; and there was a few bruises clearly seen. Jason was no expert but he clearly knew bruises from a grab at the throat. He pushed the scarf back up and looked into her eyes.

“What the hell has he done to you?” He whispered.

“Nothing.” She looked over and saw Wolfgang clearly watching with suspicion; “I thank you for wishing us well Jason and that of your father's wishes.”

He noted the coward and his look as he turned round and smiled at the chump.

“Aye we do really wish you both much happiness. Now we must allow others to say their farewells and good wishes.”

Jason noted his father do his best to distract one and all and so he clutched hold of Carrie's hand and just said; “If you need anything you know where I will be.” He went to let her hand go to find that she pulled him closer once more.

The emotions were creating her heart to skip and pound about and as the nightmare visions of earlier came in she clutched hold of Jason and pulled him close. As darkness fell about her she shouted out; “Help me!”

In slow motion the girl who meant more to him than everyone else fell towards the floor. Only his quick reactions stopped her from cracking her head upon the wood.

There was a rush of panic as many just didn't know what to do. All except a few and one of those was Jason's father.

“Quick son; lay her onto a bed or couch or something and fetch the smelling salts.”

Jason did as he was told whilst barking at a few stupid people who got in the way; “Out the way will you!”

Gerald watched his daughter being placed upon her favourite feinting couch. He had got the maid who found the smelling salts. He didn't much like crowds and with irritation he told one and all; “Please take your leave and thank you for coming; just a little overwhelmed by your generosity.”

Many nodded while others just stared at the action so Jack made his move; “Come now folks the show is over; let Mister Claybourne and daughter have some privacy eh?”

Jason was one of the last out and as he moved he eyed up Wolfgang who was clearly shaken. The man himself went out for a smoke in the moonlight. Jason made his way out the front before doubling back out of the way of his father as he was chatting to some ladies.

“Eh Wolfgang remember what I said.”

He jumped and he spun round; “I never touched her.”

Jason wasn't so forgiving; “A mark for a mark Peterson.”

Wolfgang went to run but found himself being yanked back via his collar and thrown against a cold brick wall. A long shadow came at him and he felt pain in his stomach as he crumpled to the floor.

“That's for the marks on her neck and this is for the pain you caused her.” Jason kicked the man whilst down and had the pleasure of watching him collapse to the floor and attempt to crawl away. His cigar was left to smoke away by itself on the floor. Jason picked it up and stubbed it out on the man's neck. He yelped in agony and was clearly sobbing as Jason walked casually round and caught up with his father.

“Want a cigar dad?”

His father took the thing and had a complaint; “This one's been smoke and recent like.”

Jason grinned; “Well you know what they say.”

Jack frowned; “What's that then?”

“That beggars can't be choosers.”

“Aye fair enough.” Jack replied as he placed the big cigar into his pocket.

 

“You were talking in your sleep son.”

Jason opened his eyes and remembered that he only had one eye that could see.

“What was I saying?”

“Talking about Carrie.”

He closed his eyes for a second or two before asking; “Was it anything serious like?”

“Nah; mostly gibberish.”

“Do you know how I come by this?”

Jack took hold of his son's hand and lowered it away from the bandaged wound.

“I know it was done up by Claybourne manor. Gerald is hopping mad and is threatening to get the law onto you.”

“And what did you do?”

“I was restrained from punching his lights out.”

Jason saw the glint in his father's eyes; “I bet you wish you could have!” He laughed along by his dad before the pain in his head got worse.

“Does it hurt there?”

“Aye; bad, feels like a sharp hot poker.”

“You have been having fits as well.”

Jason could see the hurt and pain this was causing him; “I never intended to get shot at and I never intended to hurt you. I had to try; I had to get her away from Claybourne.”

“I know that son; but now look at you. You may not live and I…”

“Now come now dad; don't be crying on me.” Jason felt his eyes well as he saw his father crying and fondling his hands.

“I don't know what I'd do without my boy.”

“You ain't lost me and I sure as not planning to go into ground just yet.”

“But the bullet is still lodged in your brain; it will move and cause damage.”

His father being an emotional man was a strange concept at times and yet it made him human and drew Jason to him.

“I thought you always maintained I had no brain to damage.”

Jack laughed before blowing his nose and wiping his eyes.

“Oh I almost forgot; Miss Claybourne dropped off this letter for you before she left.”

If he would have lifted himself up he could have; “Where's she gone?”

“Packed off to Highbury, London .”

“Conveniently sent off there to be under the control of Peterson's family.”

Jack sighed before blowing his nose once more; “She doesn't know how bad you've been. She was told of only a nick to the skull.”

“Aye; I bet that was down to Gerald.”

“No, down to me; I didn't want any more confusion. I don't need anymore trouble round here.”

“You think that I am going to sit at home or lie here and let her marry a coward and a bully and a…” He stopped as his father opened up the letter.

“I'll read the part I read to you and hopefully you will see.” Then he looked at his son's face; “I'll read it all apart from the dear Jason.”

Jason chose his turn to sigh as he again had to rest his head.

“My dear love, I know it has been a distressing time for you and for me to. I often dream of how life was so easy and simple when we were young. Now though it gets harder by the day. Though I would love to run away with you and find a secret hideaway from all ill will and hatred, I know that this can never be so. My father has made his wishes known and thinks me a harlot and a slut for what has happened. Last night's incident made matters worse. Though I love you with all my heart I have to be Wolfgang's loyal wife as I am with child; his child.”

“Bloom'in hell I didn't read that bit before; there's several pages worth and I just read the end.” He looked over at Jason; “When did you know about this?”

“I knew nothing about child. I knew he had hurt her and I beat him for it. If I had known about his barbaric action I would have most probably killed him for it.”

His dad was gawping and kept flicking his gaze from Jason back to the written page. Finally he carried on.

“We plan to wed immediately and live in London with his parents while he is away and retire to Dayton when he is home. Father will not have me at Claybourne and has instructed me to stay clear away from you. Wolfgang has successfully applied for a transfer closer to Dayton; that's family connections for you. I think between him and my father's connections they could move mountains if needed. Please do not feel bad my love and only wish me the best as I you. I will always hold out my promise to you of my undying love and hope in some way you will always feel the same way to.”

Jack closed the letter and put it into his son's hand.

“So that is that I guess.”

“You can't stop fate son.”

“No such thing as fate. Though there is such thing as bad decisions. Still as you say; that is that.”

“I think it's best if we concentrate on getting you better.”

Jason focussed his one able eye upon his father; “That I intend to do.”

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER 6: THE CELL

 

Carrie arrived at the house she was or could say being held prisoner in. The place was always warm and inviting; but today the lady of the house was not so welcoming.

“Come inside at once! I don't want the neighbours looking.”

“I wouldn't want to cause any offence my Lady.”

Lady Peterson threw a frown as deep as her forehead could allow as she literally ushered the woman inside; “I can't see how much more reproach you could cause.”

Carrie looked at the woman; “I don't quite understand.”

“The child you are carrying; is it his?”

Carrie knew what had been said here and was miffed why Lady Peterson had got the wrong end of the stick.

“I can assure you the child is your son's.”

“Old fish tales and tattle! My son would not act in an improper way towards a lady.”

Carrie was tired bruised and drawn from all that had befallen her and now this woman dare besmirch her honesty?

“I assure you Lady Peterson that your son is capable of this deed and when the child is born you will see just how mercenary and cold he is towards me.”

A slap shot out from the woman; so forceful that poor Carrie's head was pushed sideways.

“You will not lie in this household and you will not venture away from here. This is your home now for the duration of the pregnancy and when the child is borne; it is to become a bastard and taken to a home.”

A tear rolled down her cheek and anger along with a new hate for this lady issued forth from her heart; “Then I can see now where Wolfgang gets his cowardice and bullying ways from.”

Lady Peterson turned aside and shouted at one of her servants to take the woman away. Then as the harlot got to the top of the stairs she cried out; “I cannot fathom as to why my boy is still willing to marry you? Must be true love I guess.”

“I think not my lady; try another conclusion and ask him yourself.” Carrie walked away and off to her prison cell as the maid showing sympathy fetched her some ointment for the bruise to the face.

 

“I can't understand why you cannot supply aid to the Jones family?”

Gerald held the gaze of Doctor Bates; “Because they are trouble makers and I will not tolerate that lads behaviour.”

“You shot him in the forehead; he's lucky to still be alive and as to the quality…”

“I did not shoot him!” Gerald shouted as the room echoed out his statement of the facts here.

“Then who did?” Bates asked in an ultra calm manor.

“One of the staff did I guess; it was dark and…”

“It was a cloudy night and you never took aim and fired when Master Jones was clearly visible when a full moon appeared.”

Gerald wasn't happy with this questioning from an old friend and whilst pouring himself a stiff drink he said so; “You can question me all evening if you like and I will tell you the same. That man was on my property and I have every right to defend my assets from a thief and a known violent man.”

Bates shook his head; “Come off it Gerald; it was clear he was seeing your daughter.”

“And clearly as I have been informed having a relationship with him; she bares his child for the Lord's sake.”

The good Doctor had been kept out of the picture here and yet he refused to believe it; especially as the man was clearly nervous.

“I wasn't informed of this turn of events.”

“You are not the only doctor around here; anyway a good friend of mine decided to have her examined in London.” He snorted at the way Bates looked when his dignity had been compromised. “Anyway it doesn't take a Doctor to observe a skinny lady; the size of her stomach and her bouts of sickness.”

“Mmm.”

“What do you mean humm?”

“Exactly when was she presumed to have had a relationship with Jones?”

“Could be anytime this past month while her fiancée has been away.”

Sure he did and he knew this was impossible. “I'd say around the engagement about two months past. It falls in with the rumour about your daughter missing with Wolfgang for about half an hour.”

“What?” Gerald was very rattled at this point.

“It doesn't take a lot of working out. Soon people will talk.”

“Then I shall have to make sure they keep their silence till after the wedding; I can always say the child was premature.”

“You can, providing I don't tell them about other things you have asked me to do; like those certain documents to do with your past.”

Gerald was clutching his glass so tight that it broke in his hands; “You wouldn't do that; otherwise I will inform the authorities that you killed my wife.”

“You can do that; or you can help the Jones family say… to relocate somewhere out of your way and the way of your daughter and her husband.”

As he reached out to get a handkerchief the good Doctor found his own and placed it tightly round the man's cut hand.

“After all I bet they already know; or one could accidentally let it slip in a moment of forgetfulness.”

“You are a braggart Sir!”

Bates smiled; “And a good friend who looks after the long term interests of his closest mate.”

Gerald watched him go to work in patching up his hand and knew that Bates was right for once. It had been Wolfgang who had done such a bad thing to his daughter and he had only allowed the man into his household for favours of prominence and wealth abroad. Was his daughter really worth the sacrifice?

“Okay Bates I will play ball and offer the Jones' money for their pain.”

 

A few more days past and Jason became a lot more stronge; then with a swift attack he suffered another fit and was laid out under restraint.

Gerald Claybourne stood back and watched the nursing staff go to work and observed the hurt in the boy's father's eyes.

“Does he do that often?”

Jack turned about and saw the enemy; “How dare you show your face round here!”

“It's a public hospital; in other words I can step in and out as I like Mister Jones.”

“I still have a good mind to press charges against you for doing this.”

Gerald looked straight at the trembling man and could see that he was on the verge of loosing it. So to avoid an assault he took a seat; in his mind a sign of submittal.

“I am willing to drop the charges of theft and…” He couldn't think of the others and so said so; “a host of other charges which would put your boy away for a long time.”

“Well thank you for doing the obvious as he wasn't thieving and was only look'in out for interests of your daughter.”

The man knew; how he didn't understand but he knew. Then from the pocket came a letter hand written by his daughter.

“I suggest you better read that and take to heart my boy's innocence in all.”

Gerald's injured hand throbbed as he took a look and read it through. There the lines showed Carrie's love for the boy and her misfortunate event that has scarred her life. Then towards the end she had confirmed her love for Peterson and her intent to marry. This allowed his face to almost crack into a smile.

He handed the letter back; “All is well that ends well.”

Jack shook his head; “How can you say that sir? You daughter is going to live a life of a nightmare and my boy is not certain to live long or have a normal life again.”

“That is why in the form of an apology over this incident and misunderstanding I have written up a deal with my solicitor. In the agreement you will find more than ample compensation for your troubles and the unfortunate event in which one of my men shot your son.”

Jack saw the letter being held out by the villain of the peace. “Nothing can pay for the events transpired here sir.”

Gerald stood and thrust the sealed letter into the man's hands, “Just read the damn letter sir.”

Jack broke the seal and read it out. Indeed it was a very good form of compensation and one that would secure his retirement and his son's future; with a small catch.

“You want me and my boy to leave our family home?”

“We thought it would be better.” Gerald stammered out after observing another look of thunder of the shaking man. “Then you'll have no bad memories and the big bad wolf up on the hill will be a distant past.”

“You come here; you watch my boy suffer and then you presume to buy us off and re-house us into another part of England; I say to you sir good day and be off with you!”

Gerald refused to take back the letter and had just a few more words to say; “Take to heart two things old friend.”

Jack stared at the so called country gent; “What be those?”

“Doctor Bates suggested the money to help you both and like a good man I agreed and two; a war is coming and we all might be housed differently if we lose. My advice is, take the money and enjoy it while you can.”

Jack cursed the man as he walked in his usual refined Englishman's stride out of the building. He found his son was out of it once more.

“Not as bad as before Jack.” The Nurse said as she walked by.

He nodded and chose just to do that as no further words could he add to his son's plight.

Jones pulled himself a hard ill padded metal chair with wafer thin cushion and sat down. He smirked at the front of Claybourne.

“That Gerald Claybourne has more front than Blackpool.” He laughed to himself again with the realisation that he; “Not that I've ever been to Blackpool; seen pictures of the posh having ice cream and bathing and all that. I might go and see it some day providing we ain't in hands of Nazi's that is.” He held his boys dear lifeless hand; “Them doing it all over again. Invading everyone they can.”

He looked at the monetary figure on letter and laughed even more; “Want you and I to disappear he does. Probably to get out of his hair.” He leaned over and whispered into his son's ear; “What do you say Jas; shall we do master's bidding and go?”

 

Jason looked out of his bedroom window and saw the moon shed its silvery essence over all things. It was an enchanting night and one when he was a child often dreamed about. He always felt the pixies and fairy's roamed about looking to grant wishes true. Oh how many a night he had wished to be rich and be able to give Miss Carrie a true friend; one who wouldn't look down on and feel proud to have around. A man measured in mild in all his ways; also fare to all he dealt with.

“Those dreams of grandeur and rich uncles are just that Jas my boy; just dreams and wishes.”

He found his eyes drifting towards the edge of their garden; okay so it wasn't as well kept as others up tut road but it was pretty enough, once you got past pigs. There and there he saw a shadow of a figure looking up at him.

“Da; are you in house?” He called out and heard his father stir.

“Course I'm in house! Where else would I be?”

Jason said little as he pushed past his father.

“Where the hell are you of to now?”

“Someone is in our garden at end; I need to see who it is.”

“Pig rustlers do you think?”

“Nah; I'd hardly figure rustlers would think of steeling our bedraggled pigs.”

“Wait while I'll fetch lamp.”

He grabbed hold of his dad to stop him doing so.

“I will sneak up on them and find out who it is.”

“What if they are not one but three and with weapons?”

Jason grinned; “Then I'll make sure I scream and you can come and rescue me or call police.”

His dad tutted as he allowed his son to be hero and hoped the lad hadn't bitten off more than he could chew.

Jason made his way out into the back garden; the pigs heard him and were restless and squealed their unease. He saw the figure and noted that it too had seen him coming and had decided to run.

“Oh no you don't! You're mine lad.” He ran flat out and hopped over the hedge and got a clear look at the man as he ran for his life into the adjoining field. Jason felt his heavy feet thud upon the earth as he closed the gap; then as he reached the edge of the field the person hopped over the gate and headed down the slope towards the railway track.

Jason climbed over the gate and was just about to head down when he saw a lantern glowing to his left. He skidded on the moist surface and fell onto his backside as he looked at the man holding lantern.

“I'm sorry to have caused you to fall; are you alright Master Jones?”

He quickly got to his feet; “Aye quite alright thank you.” He was just about to enquire who it was when the man moved the lantern closer to his face; “Henry! What the hell?”

He raised his free hand to his lips to have silence. “I paid Master Lloyd here to tempt you out; little did I know it would take as long as this.”

“Why not just come and knock man?”

“If I was to come and knock I would have to approach through the village and the likelihood of being seen.”

Jason scratched his head as he stated the obvious; “Not at eleven at night you won't.”

Henry replied with clear irritation; “I am not supposed to be out at all from Claybourne; one could not take the risk.”

“Okay Henry; what do you want to see me about?”

“Miss Claybourne has had another incident with her father and Master Peterson. I fear that she will be taken from here at present. I had a brief communication with my lady and she wanted; no expressed a dire urgency to see you. She needs to keep you abreast of the situation.”

He glanced at his watch again and looked back at the man; “No time like present.”

Henry shook his head; “There is; Mister Clayboure is furious and is shouting down the mansion and calling for your blood. I suggest you keep your head low for this night and come up tomorrow. I shall make arrangements to keep the men he has posted away from south side of Claybourne. Are you willing to take a chance and meet with her at ten?”

“More than willing to for Miss Claybourne.”

Henry smiled and looked as if he had been holding his breath for this answer as he let out a sigh of relief.

“In that case consider it done and Miss Claybourne will look forward I'm sure to seeing you.”

Just a quickly as he had obviously arrived Henry departed down towards the railway track and headed left towards Claybourne via the track itself.

Jason felt excited as to be seeing Carrie. He had gone up to get the money for the jobs they had done and had only met the servants. He had even gone round back of the place on several occasions to see if he could see her; but she wasn't present. In fact no one had really seen her since her engagement party nearly over two months ago. This gave him the jitters and had confronted Clayboure himself just a few days back and accused him of keeping her locked up. He had gotten angry and threatened him in the middle of post office.

“ Ill be blowed if I am going to allow an insolent man like you accuse me of keeping my daughter locked up!” He had exploded all red faced.

“Then with all due respect sir; how come we don't see her and she is not allowed any visitors?”

“Get out of my way or I'll…”

“Try and whip me with your belt again; I think not sir.”

He turned to look at the others who were in the store; “Do you hear that! This man is threatening me again. If you do not evict him from this store I will take my custom elsewhere.”

Jason looked at the owner who wasn't a fan of either of them and so to keep the peace he just said; “Don't worry I'm on my way.” Then he looked at Claybourne; “Though watch yourself; if I find out you are mistreating the Lady I will measure out same to you as to Wolfgang.”

“Sticks and stones Master Jones sticks and stones!” He laughed out before turning to conclude his business at the office counter.

 

“Hey son who was it?” Jack came running up and stood by his son all out of breath.

“Nothing; just a local boy. I think he was after your cabbages.”

“Cabbages?” Jack frowned and his expression was clearly seen in the light of an almost full moon.

“As you say da; nowt queer as folk, especially kids.”

 

The following day seemed to drag as he yearned to see his love. The problem of what was going down didn't help. There was talk among the village about Mister Peterson's return and his anger over something his fiancée had done; all except no one had seen Peterson and there was no report from the few who worked at the RAF base that he had in fact returned from a reconnaissance mission in France.

“Any fresh work about yet?” He asked his dad as he came round back.

“No; and no word of that cabbage thief.”

Jason smiled and said with a joke; “There wouldn't be as all cabbages are present and correct.”

“Okay; you know what I mean. The usual suspects deny ever being up here at that time of night.” Jack's thoughts were taken from him when out of nowhere flew about ten aircraft overhead.

Jason saw them and knew then to be; “Hurricanes. Got wind they are part of the squadron off to France to defend it against any possible attack from Germany.” He looked at his father; “Do you think there will be another war; especially as the last one was meant to end all wars.”

Jack sighed; “I think there is a strong possibility. That leader of theirs is a very charismatic man; he could give them order to jump off a cliff and kill themselves and they'd be stupid and willing enough to follow.” He checked his cabbage rows as he made his final statement; “Like dung sticking to cow's backside there will be war here by next year.”

“Do you think they will ask you to go back and do same job you were doing before?”

Jack laughed; “Aye they can try.”

“If war comes I'll do my bit and sign for army.”

“I have no worries there boy but just don't let them put you in front line like poor doctor Bates friend.” Then he changed angle on really the same subject. “Do you think old Wolfgang is over there doing fighter drills?”

“Don't know and I don't care. Though daddy probably is pulling strings for him to stay home for war and push pen behind desk.” He got a shake of the head from his dad and knew he was skating on thin ice.

“When are you going to leave them in peace and take to finding yourself a nice lass?”

He put down his bucket of manure and said in a sarcastic way; “Gee! This all sounds very familiar; why don't we go down town and get into a dance.”

“Okay, okay; but at least you go down public house and mingle with village folk.”

“Because they view me as an ogre for not mixing with them in their rude songs and smoking.”

Jack rubbed his forehead and as soon as he did it he realised he had mud on it; “Just try and get on with them, that's all I ask.”

“Aye and the next thing you'll be asking me to do is pick those cabbages.” He saw his dad bend over.

“Well my back is not the same since the war and I could do with a little help.”

Jason looked to the sky and then smiled as he got out of the pig sty and into the allotment to help his dad with picking cabbages.

 

The evening wore on and it was amazing how the dark nights came in quickly catching you almost unaware. He headed away from the public house where he had told his father he'd be at. Sure enough it was dark enough to cut through the muddy paths and up towards Claybourne. Jason's heart skipped many a beat as he ran up the gentle slope towards the back of the manor. The moon kept skipping in and out playing games with shadows in the night. He had ducked down several times as he thought he had seen men patrolling the outskirts only for it to be none of the kind. A few bats had dive bombed him and he had inadvertently kicked a rabbit and jumped sky high as the thing launched itself about three foot in air before coming down and running off across the field.

Now Claybourne from the back could be seen. He quietly traced his steps past the walled garden and down the side of this massive grounds and as he looked on the master of the house looked out from the vantage point of his lounge window. He hid behind a statue and kept one eye on the master while another upon the ladies bedroom. He watched as the light went out and he knew the lady of his life was heading down to meet him.

 

“Sir; do you require your hot milk to be taken in the study as per usual?” Henry enquired as he entered in that graceful presence he had about him.

Gerald took his eyes away from the garden in the moonlight and turned to the small man; “Do I need take it anywhere else?”

Henry nodded in the negative; “I just wanted to be sure and never to presume ones habits.”

“Yes my study; I'll be in there in a few minutes. I do not want to be disturbed.”

Henry nodded and left the room. As he walked past the grand staircase he looked up and nodded towards the shadows.

Carrie saw the signal and quietly ran down the wooden staircase. She remembered at the last second to miss the third step from the bottom as this one creaked with age. Stepping onto the ground floor she hurried out and was just about to enter the kitchen when she heard a cough. Turning she saw Henry.

“This way my lady; one of your father's grounds men is in the kitchen.”

“What is he doing in there?” She asked and caught his look.

“Courting one of the cook's helpers.” He coughed quietly with embarrassment before escorting her through a different way out; “Best to head through the side entrance and out.”

Carrie found the door and quietly opened it up and headed out into the cold air.

Henry doubled back and picked up the glass of hot milk which he had placed just minutes earlier on the side table. He was just in time as his master had come out and was heading to the study.

Gerald found the room empty and without his drink. He turned and shouted; “Henry! Where's my…”

“Milk sir?” Henry replied as he floated in and gracefully placed it upon his master's oak and leather lined desk.

“Thank you Henry.”

“Will that be all sir?”

“Yes; oh and make sure my daughter is asleep and only disturb me if there is a fire.”

Henry nodded and left closing the door behind him. He often wondered what secrets were kept in that study. He had often toiled with the idea of picking the locked draws with a hair pin. But he'd only get caught and his resume wouldn't read well at any other property he was trying to seek employment at.

Gerald locked the study door. He opened up the locked big draw third down on the right of his table. Taking out the green folder he unfastened it and took a look at all the many papers he had accumulated over the years along with the recently acquired ones from the Peterson's and of course his friend Bates.

“The past has so many secrets and even now skeleton's wish to come from the closet.” He said to himself and caught his reflection in one of the glassed cabinets in this room. He looked so old from the boy that was.

He remembered how full of himself he was when younger and how his parents warned he'd come unstuck one day. He had but that experience caused him to grow up and be cautious. Though skeletons did come out on several occasions and he had dealt with them soon enough and with the minimum of fuss.

He looked down and unlocked another smaller draw. Reaching inside he found a petite round painted picture; so small to the casual eye you couldn't make out if it was man or woman; child or old person. It was faded and worn; age had ravelled its core.

“My dear love; oh how I tried to keep you from harm.” He whispered as he felt cold as if her ghost was stalking the old place. “I'm sorry you had to know the truth and how our love was fated much like Romeo and Juliet.” He gently caressed the painting before placing it away into its secret place in his desk.

 

Jason saw the figure of a woman dressed in a long cloak float like a spectre and hover before his eyes.

“Jason, Jason; oh my Jason.” Carrie could only say this as her heart skipped at the sight of his wonderful features.

He reached down and kissed her trembling hands; “My love; I have been so worried for you.”

“You need not worry for me; I have just been kept out of harms way, or so my father says. I think he is scared you may come and take me away.”

“Aye I would and all.” He held her cold hands; “Just say the word and we will go.”

She took her eyes away from his and looked at the floor; “I cannot my love.”

“If you are worried that they will find you, I know many places to hide.”

She smiled as she looked back at him; “I thank you but I have made my bed and I shall lie in it.”

“You know I cannot live without you.”

Carrie closed her eyes as she pleaded; “Please don't say those words…”

“If you leave with Peterson my heart will be broken and only in a way that can be fixed by your presence. Don't love him; love me.”

“I don't love him; I love you, you know that.”

“Then come with me and…”

Her voice broke as her emotions wanted to rule her head; though her head wasn't going to let her heart have the last word.

“I cannot; you will see why presently and understand. I will understand how to love him and please my father. You must understand and learn to see this.”

He took a step back as frustration took over his emotions; “I can never understand. If class is not your motive and you love me then we can be together.”

“No! We cannot. I am here to say goodbye and wish you well. I hope you will take what I say as my intent to wish you well. You will love again because I am giving you back your love to give to another woman.”

“Then I won't…”

Gerald rubbed his forehead as he packed away the documents and locked them away. His back ached and so he picked up his glass of milk and stood up. Walking over to the window he took a casual look out at the garden and just as a cloud had finished obscuring the moon the light shed forth onto the garden with two distinct figures standing and holding hands. This led to little interpretation as he dropped the glass for it to shatter and spill its contents over the red carpet.

Reaching for the gun cabinet he found one of his rifles and checking it was already loaded as he liked to keep them; he opened up the study door and hurried out looking for Henry.

“Henry! Henry!”

The man heard his name yelled out and knew it was trouble. Hurrying from the kitchen where he was having a delightful conversation with the cook he was confronted by a maniac with a rifle. “My dear sir! What are you doing with that gun?”

“Don't presume to question me!” Claybourne shouted feeling rage making his head feel hot. “Get my men!” And as he rushed out through the kitchen door he shouted; “Call the dogs Henry, call the dogs, set them on him!”

 

Carrie knew time was short; she kissed him on the cheek before urging him; “Go now; get going before my father catches you.”

Jason hesitated as he kept hold of her hand; “Come with me; we can run now!”

“Just go!”

Time, he needed time to think, but as she shouted out for him to leave; her father was heading out of the back door.

“Call the dogs Henry, call the dogs, set them on him!”

Jason found his feet felt heavy has his cobbled boots thumped heavily upon the damp lawn. “Think man think, which way?” The trouble was the moonlight had disappeared and all was left was dark shadows until the moon could find its light again when a passing cloud went on its way.

A yellow flash was seen followed by the noise of the realization Carrie's father was hunting him down like some damned prized trophy.

“Okay Jason, take a left and you'll be over the wall in no time.” He mumbled to himself as his heart pounded in his ears urging him for the need for haste. Then from out of the darkness came the hounds cutting off the way out.

The dogs barked even more as they closed on the scent of a desperate man. They could see him far better now as he double backed round a greenhouse and ran back towards the house. They picked up the chase.

Jason had little choice but to back round and as the moon found the light another figure stood with rifle raised, a classic hunting rifle, single shot and deadly.

From the distance a young lady screamed out to her father, “Don't hurt Jason daddy, don't!”

“I should have chased you off sooner you scoundrel!” The man barked.

“Mister Claybourne please, you wouldn't shoot an innocent man. I came to…”

The rifle went off and in an instant Jason knew it wasn't good for him. He felt a burning sensation in his head and a kind of blindness over one eye. He staggered back a little.

“Teach you to trespass upon my property lad. Now run before I think better and kill you.”

“Don't be, ah! Don't be so sure…you haven't sir.” Jason shouted at mister Claybourne as he ran away.

“Jason; don't leave me!” Carrie shouted as the vision of her fell from his eyes and he was awake and staring at his father.

 

“What did you say?”

Jack shook his head; “Back with living I see?”

“Was I anywhere else?” He saw the look on his father's face and he felt his head aching and his body felt as if he had been ten rounds in boxing ring. “I had another fit didn't I?”

“Yes.” His dad quietly replied; “Trouble is; you keep rattling round that bit of metal in your noggin and it could be your last.”

“Thanks for the comforting thought there; I was under the impression you were meant to be building me up?”

His dad rubbed his face; the fatigue from worry and constant watch was wearing him thin.

“I'm sorry; it's just sometimes I think you are never going to get out of here. You know me; I've come over in my life to think worst.”

He touched his father's arm; “Hey don't. You to me have always been the positive thinker; it's me who's been the dowdy one. Now come on and give us a lift up I want to be upright.”

“Sure you can do that?” He looked round for a medical person's advice and found a ward with the sick and no one healthy except him.

“What's the worst it can do than kill me?”

Jack pulled a long face; “Aye; that's what I'm worried about.”

“Just help me up will you.” Jason felt his father begin to help him in getting upright.

“Nice and easy does it now.” He watched as his son gently raised himself upright and then went as white as a sheet. “You okay? as you look like a ghost.”

“Aye; I'll be fine…” He wasn't as he was sick. He was saved by his da's quick cat like reflexes with a bowl and cloth.

“Ah this takes me back to when you were nay high and had the flu; boy you were a sick lad.”

The last thing you want someone to talk about either before being sick or afterwards and yet his dad carried on.

“One time I had thought you'd finished and took bowl away and you had another go all over my newly polished shoes. Then again they polished up better after that.”

“I'd appreciate it if you took bowl away and ceased giving me those stories.”

Jack looked down at basin and the pale look of his son. He felt a little stupid for bringing the subject up.

“I see; sorry. Please excuse me while I dispose of the si…bowl full of…um liquids.”

 

While Jack took the bowl away and handed it to a kindly nurse he turned to see his son had picked up the letter Claybourne had given him. He hurried back.

“Letter from Claybourne.”

Jason looked up feeling his head throb; he wondered if it was sympathy pains of actually the foreign object causing it. “I can see that with me good eye.”

“The guy has the cheek of the devil he has.”

“He wants to give us money to go away. Enough to see us relocated and he wants to purchase the cottage and all.” Jason looked up still wanting to pull away an imaginary bandage across his bad eye to make him see properly. “What did you say?”

“Nowt! He's giving us time to think it through.”

Jason closed his eyes and allowed the thoughts to go through; it all seemed too much effort to think about the future; though he had to.

“It would pay for your retirement. We could use it I suppose; actually get something out of the evil man.”

Jack fidgeted in his seat.

“What's up?”

“How did you know I was thinking anything that would make me have something that was up?”

“Because I know you like back of my hand. You don't want to move away.”

Jack sighed; “I may have had many a bad time; but that is my cottage and I couldn't bare selling it and allowing another person to change it. Its part of me and it would break my heart to leave here; even though Claybourne is on top of hill.”

“Then we won't go. I shall recover here and stick old Claybourne one in the eye.”

Jack fidgeted even more; “No; you need the money and it'll buy you a place you can enjoy.”

“Look father; I am happy to stay here with you, though…”

“Though it will never be the same without Carrie and staring at Claybourne manor will only bring up bad memories.”

Jason opened his eyes and looked at the note; “Aye it will burn in my heart and be a hard thing to swallow.”

Jack stood up and took the letter; “Let's not talk about this now; I swear the old bugger is only trying to do this to finish us off you know.”

“I wouldn't put it past him.” Jason looked over at him and saw just how tired and drawn he looked; “Why don't you go home and get some rest and a wash.”

“How do you know I need a wash?”

“I may have lost an eye but I ain't lost my sense of smell; probably your body odour that made me sick.”

Jack grinned and shook his head; “Go on and joke all you want; I'm off to see doctor and then I'll be back washed and sweet smelling later.”