Payroll by William James Johnson Chapter 38

As he had promised, Edurado located the ideal orchard for Francisco and Carmelita who were delighted to be returning to farm life, with Miguel and Pedro as part of their family. A small stream cut across the farm, with a stand of almond trees on each shore. Long even rows of orange surrounded the white adobe cottage. The kids were excited to be moving to a life which offered them the chance of participating in a family adventure.
Silky also wanted to do something special for Fernando. After much persuasion, he got him to accept the jeep he had bought when he first came to Tijuana. Unknown to his friend, he also made arrangements with Eduardo to deposit twenty five thousand dollars in trust to be used to help the former poor chicken farmer establish his new business.
Rona criticized him for being too generous but he felt these gifts were meagre payment for the unstinting generosity they had been given since coming to Mexico. These months had been the closest he had come to being part of a family. He would truly miss all of them. Now that the children were settled, Rona's main concern was safety, and the sooner they could get away from the present threat, the happier she would be.
Silky regretted the way Rona was thinking only of herself. He was sure Pedro could feel her rejection. Alone with the child he tried to reassure him of his intentions to send for him when they were safe again.
"Look after Sandy for me...real good."
"I will poppa. I promise."
"And I promise when we find a safe place to live, I'll send for you."
Pedro hugged him, and kissed him on each cheek.
"I love you poppa. I'll be waiting for you...me and Sandy."
"I love you too son. Help Francisco and Carmelita. They're very good people."
"I will...Oh poppa!...I wish I could come with you."
"I know, but it's too dangerous. Those men who killed Carlos are still on the loose."
The child bent down and hugged Sandy.
"If me and Sandy were with you, we would kill those men."
Silky hugged him. "Don't talk about killing little one. Life's too short as it is."
"What does that mean poppa?"
"Just don't talk about killing...I'll send for you as soon as I can...be a good boy Pedro."
Juarez had done a good job of keeping the visiting Mounties away from the two fugitives. He had proven himself to be a genuine friend when they needed it. It was he who arranged for them to get a quicky 'Mexican' divorce, followed by a quicky marriage. His lawyer friend Roberto Verez also registered a name change for them to make their flight out of Mexico easier. They had now become Mr. and Mrs, Stanley Howard, with legitimate passports to verify it.
Silky carried with him, five thousand dollars in US travellers cheques, and five bank drafts of five hundred thousand dollars each, It had all been completed in the two weeks since the arrival of Broom and Furthers.
Getting to Mexico City by air from Tijuana was nerve wracking. Eduardo had made all the arrangements. Beginning with a brief helicopter flight to Mexicali, they had to wait six hours for their twin engine Beech craft. The ancient machine sprung an oil leak in flight and had to land in Santa Barbara for repairs. Two days of trying to get an engine part tried their patience to the limit. Three days after their departure from Tijuana, they landed at the International Airport in Mexico City, a fifteen hundred mile trip they could've done on a bus in a day and a half. Stepping out of the small plane, they headed for the terminal. Silky was exhausted, and Rona relieved.
"Took long enough getting here."
"But...we're here...and soon we'll be heading west, for our island paradise," said Rona.
"Do you realize it's not even a year since we left Canada?"
"It's like we're two completely different people."
"We are Mrs. Howard...and I like the sound of it."
"Me too."
Silky checked his watch against the clock above the information desk. Studying the video screen he saw the Northwest Orient flight 270 for Honolulu was departing at 3 PM.
"Got a five hour wait. Let's get something to eat."
"American food for a change. I'd love a hamburger."
"Careful now...You're showing your greasy spoon background."
They both laughed as they walked towards the open cafeteria squeezed between a duty free perfume and liquor shop, and a car rental counter.
"Damn! No hamburgers...just those stupid egg salad sandwiches in plastic wrap."
"I'm going to have a slice of pie and a cup of coffee instead," said Rona.
"Me too. Not exactly a millionaire's lunch."
They took their food to a small booth, the only passengers in the place. A bus boy cleaned the table beside them.
"Where are all your customers?"
"Too late for breakfast, and too early for lunch. They'll be here soon."
When he finished filling the sugar bowl with small packets, they were alone. Silky took out his wallet and pulled out the bank drafts made on the Banco del Mexico, signed by Eduardo Jiminez.
"Can you believe that?"
"What's wrong?"
"Jiminez...Eduardo's last name. All this time he's been working for us, and I didn't even know his last name."
"The cheques are okay aren't they?"
"They look okay to me...what the hell, a cheque's a cheque."
"It's such a large amount of money. Wouldn't we have been better to get settled then have it transferred?"
"We could've done that, but the way our luck has been going, I just as soon have it with us. Look how he's made it out...'Stanley and/or Rona Howard'. I asked him to do it that way so either of us could sign it, if anything should happen to one of us."
"And all you do is deposit it, and that's that..."
"That's about it. We show the banker our passports for identification. There shouldn't be any problem."
"He was a remarkable man."
"He sure was. Can you imagine what he could do if we stayed?"
"I don't even want to think about it. The sooner we get outa here and get settled, the happier I'll be. I'm looking forward to being plain Mrs. Stanley Howard, housewife."
"And mother."
"You still want to send for Pedro?"
"More than ever. That's one sweet kid. I never told you about what happened when we went to get Sandy..."
"Tell me about it."
His story was interrupted by the busboy.
"Pardon me Senor."
"Yes...what is it?"
"Are you Mr. Stan Howard?"
His question shocked Silky. Only his immediate friends knew about his name change,
"Why do you ask?"
"If you would please come with me sir, someone wants to talk to you."
Silky glanced around seeing no one.
"Who...What's his name?"
"He's across the hall in the immigration office. I don't know his name Senor."
Both Silky and Rona felt their pie and coffee exploding inside as they heard the word "immigration".
"What do we do now?" asked Silky.
"We could make a run for it, but that would be useless. We couldn't get away."
"Okay amigo...We'll go see the man."
His legs were changing to jelly as he approached the office of immigration. Opening the door he saw a counter with a customs officer in uniform, and several smaller private offices.
"Senor Howard?"
"That's right."
"Please go into office three."
"What's this all about?"
"Office three Senor, if you please."
Rona followed Silky past the counter to the office designated. As he reached out for the door knob, the door opened and he was suddenly confronted with a familiar face.
"Hi Silky!"
"Sergeant Broom."
"The one and only...I'd like you to meet my partner, Becky Furthers."
Silky extended his hand to the Constable. Both Mounties were in plain clothes.
"And this is Silky's wife Rona...I'm right am I not...you are married?"
"Yes...how the hell did you know we'd be here?"
"Your good friend Captain Juarez."
"Juarez told you?...that miserable sonofabitch."
'Hold it...Juarez is your friend.
"Some friend...turns us over to the goddamn Mounties."
"You'll understand better after it's all over. Come on along. We got a car waiting outside."
"Aren't you going to cuff us?"
"Not unless you insist."
They followed the police to the front of the terminal and got into an official limousine, bearing the Canadian flag.
"What the hell's going on?"
"Just be patient," said Furthers. "You'll know soon enough."
The driver obviously knew Mexico City very well. His diplomatic crest and flag worked like magic, clearing a route through the heavy morning traffic. They drove out of the city and up a winding road to an estate surrounded by high concrete walls and a wrought iron gate. On a flag pole in front of the building waved the red and white maple leaf flag.
"We're here."
"The Canadian Embassy?"
"You've got it. The Ambassador is waiting."
A uniformed army corporal saluted, and opened the front door. Standing in the foyer of this splendid building was a tall, grey haired man in a navy blue suit.
"Mr. And Mrs. Howard, I am honoured to present Ambassador Andre' Boulet."
"How do you do sir," replied Silky, reluctant to shake hands until the Ambassador made the first move.
"I'm very pleased to meet you. Please come with me. Thank you Sergeant Broom."
Silky and Rona followed Boulet into his private office.
"I suppose you're wondering why you're here?"
"That's putting it mildly," replied Silky.
"You've got a lot of very good friends here Silky...in Mexico that is. I hope you don't mind me calling you Silky."
"Of course not...everyone does."
"Captain Juarez told me all about your involvement in breaking up the child smuggling ring. It's hard to believe there are such despicable creatures doing these things to innocent children. What you and your wife did was very courageous. I know how much that little boy must mean to you. I have three grandchildren about that age, and if anything happened to them, I'd be crushed. So the first thing I want to do is compliment you on your outstanding achievement. The Captain told me how difficult it has been to stop the racket, and as he says, you've made it all happen."
"Thank you sir. Quite honestly, we had no idea what we were getting into when we started. But we got Pedro back. It was all worth it."
"It certainly was. And now you've had to leave the child again."
"There wasn't anything else we could do," said Rona.
"I'm not so sure about that," replied Boulet. "But before I explain what I mean, I want to talk to you about that other matter. I'm referring to the payroll robbery and your willingness to give back the money. The Captain told me he did everything he could to get the RCMP to accept your offer, but unfortunately he couldn't get Inspector Kelly to budge. Kelly insisted you return with the money yourselves, or there'd be no deal. Juarez was convinced that was too risky. He admitted he advised you to get away and told me about his part in your escape. The Captain thinks a great deal of you two. He took a great risk on your behalf telling me how he broke the law. I felt if he was willing to risk everything, the least I could do was try to talk to Kelly myself, but I had no more luck with your proposal than Juarez. I can't understand why the Inspector was so bullheaded, insisting on you returning with the money yourselves. Probably has to do with their tradition that the Mounties always get their man...and woman in this case.
"I said you had very good friends here, and I mean it. I also got a personal call from our mutual banker, Eduardo Jiminez, who gave me a glowing report about you. He and Juarez were so persuasive, I decided to go over Kelly's head and call Ottawa. I hope Kelly didn't have a cardiac arrest when the Solicitor General gave his decision. He was very interested in your part in capturing the smugglers and asked me to pass on his praise for your courage. I also spoke to the Minister of National Defence, and he assured me, all army charges would be dropped and you are now a legitimate civilian again."
"That's tremendous Mr. Ambassador. I hated that charge of desertion hanging over my head."
"Wait a minute Silky...Don't start celebrating yet. There's more."
"Why is it I've suddenly got the feeling you're going to drop the other shoe?"
"The Solicitor General was very interested in your willingness to return the stolen money, and he did not insist you return to Canada to do it. On his behalf I'm very pleased to say, that if you'll give me a cheque for six hundred and twenty thousand Canadian dollars as you agree, payable to the Receiver General of Canada, he has authorized me to issue you a complete pardon."
Silky and Rona were speechless.
"Well...I hope this is what you wanted."
Silky grabbed the Ambassador by the hand and began to pump it up and down.
"Holy mackerel...You mean it?... a complete pardon?"
"That's right. And if you like, you can return to your friends. Juarez captured those two murderers at the border. There's nothing to stop you now."
"Thank God. I mean it...thank God for everything."
Rona was weeping quietly as he hugged her. Their running was over. They could find a small place and have Pedro and Miguel as their sons. And they could have Sandy with them again.
Ambassador Boulet asked the two Mounties to come in .
"Silky and Rona have agreed to the terms. So it looks as if you two can go home now. Where is your station by the way?"
"You probably never heard of it sir. It's in Estevan...in southern Saskatchewan."
"My grandparents on my father's side had a small farm there at a place call Bienfait. Five miles from Estevan. I remember it well."
Everyone laughed at this strange coincidence.
"We're practically relatives," said the Ambassador. "And if you folks don't mind, I'd like to take all of you out for a fine Mexican feast this evening. At government expense of course. And if that isn't enough, we can close out the evening at the casino, that's of course if you don't mind taking a chance."

My sincere thanks for all those who persevered in the reading of my novel.

If you would prefer to send your comments to me personally, here is my E-mail address,wmjohnson@openweb.ca.

I'll see you all again when I publish my next book. Bill Johnson.

Payroll by William James Johnson Chapter 37

Silky was amazed at the remarkable change in Rona's attitude when he told her about Juarez' proposal. After the experience with Hansen's men, and the threat posed by the thugs who beat Carlos to death, she wanted to get away. At last something positive was going to be done.
The urgency expressed by Juarez to make a move as soon as possible brought Eduardo to the hacienda. "As I told you Senor Silky when you purchased the estate, it was a remarkable investment. Your timing could not be better. I have a client who had been looking for just such a property, and cost is not relevant if he likes what he sees."
"Who is your client?"
"Let me say he's a wealthy Arab who is looking for a base for himself and his family that is secure."
"In Tijuana? Why would anyone with money want to locate here?"
"First of all, he's concerned about security. He's afraid of terrorists. He has been sent here by his family to invest in our off shore oil. He has a theory the next great drilling area is going to be off the Pacific coast."
"But he could do that from several places in your country. Why Tijuana?"
"The same reason you came here my friend...proximity to the United States. His family has connections with gulf drilling and they want to be near the Americans...don't fight it. This property has everything this man is looking for."
"Has he seen our house?"
"No Senor, but I've told him about it. It's exactly what he wants."
"And Francisco and his family...what will happen to them?"
"He may want to keep them as servants. That can be resolved after we see if he likes the hacienda."
"What's not to like?"
"Exactly. So if you'll permit, I'll arrange to bring him here."
"How much do you think I can get for the place?"
"I think I'd ask one point three, and negotiate."
"One point three...What's that? A hundred and thirty thousand?"
"No Senor. You'll remember when you bought the house, I said you were getting it for one tenth of its value...I mean one million, three hundred thousand dollars."
"Wow! You mean it? You think we can get that kind of money?"
"If he likes the place, I'm sure we can get close to that. It's well worth it. Replacement cost would exceed that figure. Would you like me to have him come and see it?"
"Of course...Get him here today. We don't have much time."
Eduardo was a man who could make things happen. That's what Silky admired about him. Later that afternoon he returned to the hacienda with his middle eastern client, Mohammad Kafira, a man of medium height, in full length white robes, with a red and white checkered headdress. The Saudi was most impressed with the high walls and solid iron gate.
"Is this the only entrance to the property?"
"One could scale the walls which face the lake, but it would be a major undertaking. I don't know of any other property which has been so well chosen to provide security for its owner. It's truly a jewel."
"I'm anxious to see inside." Kafira had a very pronounced Oxford accent. His manners were polished, and his phrasing deliberately precise.
Eduardo rang the bell and waited.
"There's one change I would suggest."
"What might that be?"
"Up there, where the tiles cover the wall, I'd install a security camera so that I could see anyone approaching...you know, the kind that is moveable so you can scan the entrance."
Kafira looked up. "I agree. That's a splendid suggestion."
The small slot in the door was opened.
"Who is it?" asked Silky.
"Eduardo and my client."
The sound of the heavy bolt banging against its stop, reassured Kafira. The hacienda was a veritable fort.
"Senor Silky, I'd like to introduce Mohammad Kafira."
"How do you do Sir. Welcome to my home."
His penetrating gaze, meticulously trimmed beard, and graceful movements, convinced Silky this was no run of the mill rug merchant. Kafira gave him a classical salaam, intimidating Silky who was unsure how to respond.
"I am so honoured you would permit me to view your magnificent home."
"My pleasure Mr. Kafira," replied Silky awkwardly.
The freshness of the air in the courtyard, saturated with the sweet fragrance of honeysuckle and jasmine gave the Arab visitor the sensation of being in an exotic garden in the middle east.
"What a marvellous creation. Your garden reminds me of my uncle's palace in Ad Dilam. The man who designed this courtyard is a gifted artist. It is stunning."
Silky moved behind the two men, letting Eduardo do the presentation. He was astounded at the vast knowledge of his banker. As they moved into the foyer, Eduardo pointed out features of the portico, comparing the structural designs borrowed from the Arab world to make living in such a warm climate tolerable. Silky had taken these features for granted.
It took about forty minutes for Eduardo to complete his tour of the house.
"It is a magnificent house. Exactly what I've been looking for. Secure. Aesthetically appointed...Serene. My family will be delighted I'm sure."
Silky interrupted Kafira. "There's one proviso that comes with the property."
"Proviso...Is the property not for sale sir?" asked Kafira.
"It's for sale, but it includes an agreement that the servants and their children may stay on."
Kafira was obviously a man accustomed to getting what he wanted without restrictions. Silky's remark was disappointing.
"I'm sorry you would say that sir. I'm not interested in purchasing a property which includes servants. I have my own staff who will be residing with me. I think we should leave Eduardo. I'm sorry you didn't tell me about this before we came. You could've saved us all the trouble."
Eduardo was stunned by the turn of events.

"Would you please give me a few minutes with Senor Silky. I'm sure I can clear up this misunderstanding."
"By all means...I'll be waiting in the garden."
Eduardo turned to Silky, fire in his eyes.
"Have you lost your mind? The man wants the house and you try to queer the deal by including those people."
"But I can't just write off Francisco and his family like that."
"Don't forget to include the two orphans," said Eduardo sarcastically. "My gawd man. No one's asking you to write off your friends. With the money you're going to clear on this deal, you can buy them a small citrus plantation, where they can all work in a family business. There's a very nice farm within a half mile of Fernando's place. It'll be perfect for them. This hacienda is no place to raise kids. Get rid of that proviso, and I guarantee you I'll help your friends get situated in a more suitable environment. Believe me Silky, guys like Kafira come along only once in a lifetime."
Silky knew he was angry when he dropped the polite "Senor" Silky he always used.
"You're right Eduardo. I'm being stupid. Do you think your man would reconsider if I dropped the proviso?"
"I don't know. He was really annoyed...and quite frankly, so was I."
"It's all happening so fast."
"Believe me my friend, if we don't get you and Senorita Rona out of here as soon as possible, you're going to have Mounties banging on the front gate, and if not them, then those two murderers who beat Carlos. There's very little time."
"Okay. Let's do it your way. Tell him he can have the place without restrictions, but you've got to promise you'll help Francisco and the kids get settled somewhere."
"I promise...now I'd better talk to Kafira."
Silky watched the two men talking in the garden. At first the Arab appeared sullen, listening to Eduardo's pitch, then suddenly he broke into a full smile, his white teeth like shining pearls against his dark beard. They shook hands, and returned to Silky.
"Eduardo has explained why you included that provision Mr. Silky. That kind of loyalty to one's servants is most admirable. I am so glad you have decided to make other arrangements for them. Now that there are no restrictions, I am prepared to purchase your property for your asking price of one and a half million dollars. Is that agreeable with you?"
Silky almost burst into laughter when he realized Eduardo had increased the asking price. He was able to maintain his composure long enough to seal the agreement with a handshake before the two left. Bolting the front gate, he hurried into the house to tell Rona.
"Rona...Rona. Where are you?"
"Out here darling. By the pool."
Silky was so excited he stammered as he tried to explain what had happened. Rona got the key phrase, "a million and a half bucks," and began to jump up and down with Silky.
"Holy cow Silky! Are you sure? A million and a half?"
"I know. Isn't it crazy. Gawd, that Eduardo is a miracle worker."
"When do we have to leave?"
"He'll get back to me as soon as they draw up the papers in town. It'll be soon though. It's not safe for us to stay here."
"And he's going to let Francisco and his family stay?"
"No... In fact I almost loused up the deal by insisting he keep them on. I've never seen Eduardo so angry."
"What's going to happen to them?"
"We're going to get them their own place, and they have to agree to keep Miguel and Pedro. Eduardo says he knows of a nice citrus grove near Fernando's. I think it'll be great."
"Are you going to tell them now?"
"I think we better wait until we know for sure."
"I agree. No use getting them excited about a change and then have something go wrong."
"Do you know what I'd like to do now?"
"What's that?"
"Let's go and see Sandy. We've got to make some arrangements for him too. I'd like to see him live with the kids, especially Pedro. He loved that dog."
"Why don't you take him with you? It might help if he met the vet and was able to ask him questions."
"That's a good idea. Where are the kids now?"
"Pedro and Miguel are playing electronic games downstairs. I'll get him for you."
As she walked away from him, he had a flashback to the time he and Rona first met. Neither of them had any idea when they fled the country, they would be millionaires some day. He was so lucky to have a partner like her. He had to admit when he lost his temper with her, it was usually because he didn't want to acknowledge she was right about something. Rona had very little formal education, but somewhere in her life she had developed wisdom, and he was relying on it more and more.
"You want to see me Senor Silky?"
"Yes Pedro. I'd like you to come with me to see Sandy. Would you like that?"
"Oh yes...Yes Senor. Is Miguel going to come too?"
"Not this time...just you and me."
On the way into town, he explained why he and Rona were going to have to leave. He said they were planning to go to Mexico City where they could get a flight to a Pacific island. And maybe when they were settled in a safe home, they would send for him. In the meantime, he was going to make sure Pedro would have a good life with Francisco. The little boy was devastated.
"No...no poppa...I mean Senor Silky. Don't leave me again. Please don't leave me again."
Silky stopped the jeep and put his arms around Pedro. The child pushed him away and jumped out of the jeep and began running.
"Pedro...come back. Come back."
"I don't want you. You're just like my poppa. You say you want me then you throw me away. Go away...Leave me alone."
"But I don't want to throw you away. I want you to have a good life with Francisco and his family. You'll be with Miguel. You'll see. It'll be a happy life. Come on little one. Get back in the jeep. I need you Pedro."
"You don't need me...nobody needs me...you're just saying that."
"I do need you Pedro. We can't take Sandy with us. I need someone who can look after him. Won't you please come with me. You're the one he really likes." His remark that there was someone who really liked him, made the child stop.
"You mean it Senor?"
"Of course I mean it. Sandy and you were the best of friends. I wouldn't want to leave him with anyone else. Please get in."
"Silky extended his hand to the child and pulled him into the jeep.
"I'll do it for Sandy Senor Silky."
"That's my boy."
Out of the corner of his eye Silky saw the child wipe his tears on his sleeve. A small grin formed on his tiny mouth as he thought about the fun he used to have with the friendly Doberman. Silky was glad he thought about the dog.
Arriving at the clinic, Pedro ran ahead of Silky and opened the door. "Hurry up poppa."
Every time he called him poppa made it more difficult for Silky. He didn't want to leave the boy, not after the struggle he went through to find him. Rona was right. Trying to get away with a child would risk all their lives. He had to be firm in his decision to leave Pedro with Francisco.
"Ah! Senor Silky," said Doctor Gomez.
"How is our patient Doctor?"
"Who is this young gentleman?"
"This is Pedro. He is Sandy's best friend."
Pedro smiled broadly at Silky's description of him.
"Come along. Sandy's out back."
Walking down the narrow corridor they could hear the sporadic barking of other dogs. The air was heavy with the smell of antiseptic. Gomez opened the door to a small, brightly lit room. Lying on a blanket was the quiet body of Sandy, breathing faintly, his eyes barely open. Pedro dropped to his knees and draped his arms around the dog's neck, and kissed him on the nose.
"His nose is so hot."
"He has a fever," said Gomez.
"It's usually cold and wet when I kiss him."
"Sandy's very sick."
"Is he going to die?"
"Only time will tell. He's very weak."
"I won't let him die. He needs me."
"Stay with him Pedro while I have a talk with Senor Silky."
Stepping into the corridor, Silky looked back through the opening in the door and saw Pedro lying beside the still animal, stroking him gently.
"What's the problem Doctor?"
"Sandy's not going to make it, I'm afraid."
"What?...I thought you said he would be okay."
"I told you there was a chance of infection. Apparently the bullet has caused lead poisoning and he's not reacting to the medication. I'm very sorry."
"My gawd!..What am I going to tell that little kid?"
"I can tell him if you like."
Tears began to form in Silky's eyes. He hadn't given any thought to the possibility Sandy wouldn't make it. What would the child think of him now?
"I think I better tell him. Thanks for your offer Doctor."
"Whatever you wish. Let's let him spend these last few minutes with the dog. It might help him accept his death when it comes. We'll go to the office and have a coffee."
Doctor Gomez knew that Silky appreciated his compassion. He could tell that he needed as much time as Pedro to deal with the unexpected passing of his dog.
"I'm glad you came in."
"Why's that?"
"I've been hoping I could turn this thing around, but you saw for yourself how sick he is. I hate euthanasia, but sometimes that seems to be the only solution. It's easier to do it when an animal is as sick as Sandy. It's horrible when people come in with perfectly good pets, and want them destroyed for their own selfish convenience. That really bothers me."
"So what do you think I should do about Sandy?"
"Let the boy spend as much time as possible with him, then I think I should take the poor animal out of his misery. If you'll authorize it, I'll give him a needle to put him to sleep.:
"Of course. I want you to do whatever you think is best for that poor dog."
"You must love him a lot."
"More than most people I know. He's been a great friend. And if I tried to tell you about all the things he has done for me, we'd need a whole day."
"I've got nothing scheduled. I'd like to hear all about him."
"You would?"
"I really would...let me freshen up your coffee."
He told Gomez the whole story. It was good to get it off his chest with someone who could appreciate the exploits of this marvellous animal. An hour and a half passed as though it were a few minutes. It was Gomez who remembered about the boy.
"What a fascinating story. No wonder you feel you're losing a friend. Not many people have friends who do as much for them. I think we better go and check on the young lad."
"Maybe Sandy's gone by now."
"I doubt it. Pedro would've been in here right away if that happened."
"I forgot to ask you Doctor, what do you do with the body?"
"We cremate the remains, unless you have another suggestion."
"I think it would be easier for the children, if we buried Sandy, where they could visit his grave."
"That's a very good way to have children benefit from what must be a tragic experience for them. I'll call you when the body is ready to be picked up."
Returning to the small room, the two men were astounded to find Sandy standing, his stubby tail moving irregularly, while Pedro hugged him warmly.
"I don't believe it," said Gomez, putting his stethoscope to the dog's chest. Listening carefully he looked at his watch and measured his pulse. Touching Sandy's forehead he could tell the fever was receding.
"This is the most amazing thing I've ever seen."
"You mean, he's going to be okay?" asked Silky.
"The medication finally seems to have taken hold."
"It's not the medicine Doctor. It's Pedro. I told you he was Sandy's best friend."

View the art of William James Johnson at www.noozoon.com

Payroll by William James Johnson Chapter 36

Rona's face showed the tremendous strain they had both been under since getting involved in the search for Pedro. She was upset when Captain Juarez called to tell her he was bringing the child to live with them as Silky had suggested.
"I'm worried Silky."
"About what?"
"Things are different now."
"What do you mean different? I thought you wanted the boy as much as I do."
"That was before we found out about Hansen and the chicken business."
"Seems to me that's even more reason for wanting to help the little guy."
"But he's bound to see us differently now."
"Why would you say that?"
"We helped capture his father."
"He's a smart kid. He'll understand we had no choice. After all, it's not as if we're throwing him back on the streets. He'll have a good home with people who love him. What more could we do?"
"But the kid never knew his father until just a few days ago, and now his dad's probably going to spend years in prison. We're responsible for that."
"No way. If Hansen goes to prison, it's because he deserves it. No one can blame us for that."
"Don't you see Silky, it would be better if Pedro never met his father. Now that they have found each other, the kid's bound to blame us for losing him. I think if we let him stay, we're setting ourselves up for more grief."
"I love that little boy, and if there's anything I can do to help him have a decent life, I'm gonna do it."
"Both Pedro and Miguel are street kids. Don't let their small size fool you. They've learned to fend for themselves."
"That's probably why I love them so much. They remind me of myself, growing up."
"You're vulnerable Silky. These kids have worked their way into your heart, and they can wrap you around their little fingers. It's a fact. I watched it when Pedro was with us at Fernando's and I've seen Miguel do it. I'm afraid you're going to get hurt that's all. I just have a feeling."
"Well stop worrying. All these kids need is love and there's plenty to go around...When did Juarez say they'd be here?"
"Soon...They were going to leave right away."
"Did he say anything about the Mounties?"
"Only that he wants to talk to you about it."
"And those guys that killed Carlos...what about them?"
"He didn't mention it."
The black and white cruiser made its way slowly up the dusty mountain road. Juarez was taking his time, hoping the small boy would loosen up and talk about his problem. The Captain was a very compassionate man whose sensitivities were buried in a harsh exterior. Moderately overweight, and rumpled looking, Juarez could get people to talk because he seemed so ordinary.
Pedro hunched over in the cruiser, leaning against the door, his head buried in his arms. He hadn't spoken a word since Juarez picked him up.
"What's the problem amigo. You don't look very happy."
"Nothin'."
"Nothin'. I'd hate to see you when there's somethin' wrong."
"I don't want to talk about it."
"Okay my little friend. But that's not going to make it go away."
The child hesitated, studying the Captain's friendly face. "I don't like Senor Silky anymore."
"Oh! And why's that?"
"You know why."
"No I don't. Tell me about it."
"He helped you catch my father."
"But your father was going to kill Senor Silky and his family."
"I wish they never came to Tijuana."
"Look amigo. Your father has done some very bad things. He kidnapped little children like you, and sold them to rich gringos. Horrible things were done to these little kids. Some of them were even killed."
"Nothing bad happened to me."
"But you were lucky. You were bought by Sanchez. He wanted a son. He wasn't looking for a helpless victim like some of those men up north."
"What's going to happen to poppa now?"
"He'll have a trial, and people will listen to his story and decide if he's to go free, or go to jail. That's how it's done."
"Do you think they will let poppa go?"
"I don't think so Pedro. People who do bad things must be punished."
"Even Senor Silky?"
"Why do you say that?"
"He did bad things. He stole a lot of money in his country."
"Yes Pedro...Even Senor Silky must be punished. If we did not punish bad people, everyone would do what they wanted, and there would be no place for good people to live."
"I hope they punish Senor Silky for helping you catch my poppa."
"Listen amigo...Most of your life you managed without your poppa. Lots of little kids couldn't do what you've done. It has taken great courage. You're a very brave boy. Now you're going to have a chance to live in a beautiful home, with people who love you. Don't waste this chance Pedro. Silky and Rona risked their lives trying to get you back. They deserve a chance to make you happy."
"I can't be happy without my poppa. All my life I wanted to know who he was. When momma died, I was all alone. The other ladies looked after me, but no one ever told me about poppa. Then all of a sudden he comes to Senor Sanchez house and says he is my poppa. I couldn't believe it. But I knew he was telling the truth because he looked like me. Senor Sanchez liked him too. Then he told Senor Sanchez he wants to play a trick on some friends, and Sanchez said okay. I let them hide me in the basket. I had no idea it was Senor Silky who was going to be fooled. I was upstairs when I heard a bang like a gun. After we came down stairs, I saw poor Senor Sanchez bleeding on the floor beside this big box."
"Was he dead?"
"I don't know Senor. He wasn't moving."
"How did they find you?"
"It was Sandy who found me in the basket. Do you know Sandy Captain?"
"I just saw him for a few minutes. He was hurt by one of your father's men."
"Oh no! Not Sandy."
"They took him to the doctor. I don't know how he is."
"He was so much fun. He'd let me ride him. Nobody else could ride him...just me."
"Go on with your story. What did you do after you saw Sanchez had been shot?"
"Poppa said Senor Silky did it, and we better get away before the police came, or they might think it was our fault."
"Where did you go?"
"Poppa lives in town with a nice lady. He took me there, and asked her to take care of me while he finished his work."
"What kind of work?"
"I don't know. But I think he had men who worked for him. I think he wanted to see them. I was so happy to be with poppa. He said he would never leave me again. Then you caught him...you and that crook Senor Silky. It really hurts to talk about it Captain. I know I'm not going to see poppa again...I'm sorry Senor, but I think I'm going to cry."
Juarez pulled the cruiser to the side of the dirt road and put his arm around the youngster.
"Go on amigo...cry. Get it all out. Sometimes that's the only way to make things better."
Pedro nestled against the chief, sobbing uncontrollably.
"That's it my little friend. Take all the time you need."
"I don't really hate Senor Silky...he gave me a dollar once for nothin.' Poppa never gave me nothin'."
"I know you don't hate Silky. He told me how much he misses you. He was the one who said he wanted you to come and live with him."
Pedro sat up, wiping his tears on his sleeve. Juarez reached under his seat for a tissue.
"Here. Blow your nose."
He blew so hard, the tissue ripped, and Pedro began to laugh.
"Here's another one. There's lots...You feel better now?"
"Yes I do. Gracias amigo."
"Can we go then?"
"Yes. Let's go. You're right Captain. Silky is my friend. I'll try hard to make him like me."
"You won't have to do anything. He already loves you."
The rest of the trip went quickly. Pedro was surprised when the cruiser stopped outside the high wall at Silky's estate. "This is Senor Silky's hacienda?"
"This is it."
"I was here with another man. Do you know him Senor?...Edmundo Cabral?"
"The smuggler?"
"The man who gave me to Senor Sanchez."
"I know him Pedro. I sure would like to know where he is now."
"I heard him tell Sanchez he was going to Brazil. He said it was getting too hot for him here...He was a nice man."
Juarez rang the bell and waited.
"I'm sure he was." He decided not to elaborate on the details of the chicken business. This child had enough trauma in his life.
"Oh it's you Captain," said Silky, checking through the small opening. "Are you alone?"
"Just me and Pedro."
Sliding the bolt, he slowly opened the heavy gate. Pedro ran to him and hugged him.
"Senor Silky...I'm back."
"And I'm glad you're back. Come in. The others are waiting."
Miguel and the other children grabbed his hands and hurried him to the pool area.
"That's what he needs," said Juarez, "A chance to be a child."
"So what happened with the Mounties?"
"There were two of them...a man and a woman. She seemed smarter than him. They want to meet you, but I said I wouldn't arrange it until they told their boss about your willingness to return the money if they dropped all the charges."
` "So...What did they say about that?"
"The Sergeant seemed afraid to suggest it to his chief, but the woman was willing to listen, and they notified them back in Canada."
"So when will we know?"
"Their Boss, Inspector Kelly has agreed to consider your offer if you come back with them and turn yourself in."
"Turn myself in! Are they crazy? I agreed to return the money, because I don't want to go back...What do you think Captain?"
"I think you'd be stupid to go back. They just want to have you and the money...if it were me Senor Silky, I'd be disappearing again...and soon. You've got so much money, you can go anywhere you want...anywhere."
"But we don't have passports. We're actually illegal immigrants in your country."
"For the right amount of money, I can get you passports that'll let you go anywhere in the world. Getting passports is no problem."
"But if we're caught..."
"You won't be caught. You want to leave my country, I think you should get to Mexico City and then you can pick from hundreds of places. All the major airlines fly out of the Capital."
"Why Captain?...Why are you helping us?"
"It's personal Senor."
"It might help if I knew your reason."
"My sister's little boy was taken out of his front yard and sold to perverts in San Francisco. He was only eight years old. We worried for months. Then the Yankee police told us his tiny body had been found in a heavily wooded area by some hikers. This is why I want to help you Senor. Now that the chicken trader has been caught, our children will be safe again...for awhile at least."
"What a helluva Story. I'm so sorry Simon."
"Now you know...I want to help you because without your desire to find little Pedro, this horrible crime would continue."
"Gawd...I almost forgot about Pedro. If we take off again, what's going to happen to him...and Miguel?"
"I've thought about this too Senor. These are Mexican children, who should stay here in their country if it is possible. Eduardo has made a lot of money for you. You can afford to provide a good life for them. I'd suggest you put money in a trust fund for the two boys. Your servants, Francisco and Carmelita would have the use of the fund if they would be willing to adopt the two children."
"That's terrific. I'm sure they'd want to do that. They're marvellous people. And I'd be satisfied that the two boys would have the family experience they both need."
"I'm glad you like the idea Senor...Now we must arrange to get passports for you and Senorita Rona."
"Wait...I'm not thinking straight. What about the house?"
"What about it Senor?"
"I can't just leave it to our servants. It's worth a helluva lot of money. Maybe we should sell it, and get something smaller."
"That could be done. Eduardo can look after it for you. But you don't have much time if you expect to make a clean getaway. That's what you should be thinking of first."
"Damn...I almost forgot about Sandy."
"Senor Silky, you have to change some things if you expect to save yourself. The most important thing right now, is getting you and your lady as far away from here as possible. I'm talking two maybe three days maximum. I can't keep these Mounties running in circles forever."
"Okay Simon...you're right. Rona was thinking the same way when we came back from town. That woman has great instincts."
"You're lucky Senor. Having a good woman is very important. So how about we leave it this way. I'll get the passports arranged and you look after the financial end with Eduardo. And while you're in town, you can check on the dog. I think Sandy would like to live in this house with the kids."
Silky shook hands with Juarez, them impulsively hugged him. "Thank you Simon...You're a true friend."

Read other Johnson Blogs at http://noozoon.blogspot.com

Payroll by William James Johnson Chapter 35

"Tiger" Kelly was a strong believer in the importance of creating a good first impression. It was this basic philosophy which drove him to devote so much time to shining boots and polishing buttons, demanding the same attention to detail from his subordinates. It was no wonder, the lackadaisical officers of the Tijuana jail stopped working when Broom and Furthers walked in, wearing their best khaki tunics, and sparkling brass buttons, navy blue breeches with gold stripes down each side, and mirror finished boots. Kelly originally proposed they wear the world famous scarlet tunics, but Furthers convinced him the red might arouse the latent bullfighting instincts of the hot blooded Mexicans.
Captain Juarez looked up from the file he was studying when the sounds in the outer office suddenly stopped. Passing his hand through his shiny black hair and a cursory pass at his moustache to be sure there were no remnants from his lunch, he stood up and tucked in his shirt.
"Welcome...Welcome my Canadian friends. I'm Captain Juarez, Chief of Tijuana Police."
"How do you do Captain...This is my partner, Constable Furthers, and I am Sergeant
Broom of the..."
"Royal Canadian Mounted Police," said Juarez. "I've always liked that name. I think it's the word 'Royal' which does it for me. Can I get you something to drink?...Coffee?...or is it tea you British like?"
"We're Canadians Captain...not British. And thank you. Nothing for me."
"And you Senorita...or should I say Constable? You would like something?"
"I'd love a coffee Captain...black."
"Ah! A woman after my own heart. I like my coffee strong and my women weak." Juarez roared at his attempt to be humorous, then sent one of his officers to get the coffee.
"So you think you may have our payroll robbers?" asked Broom.
"Now why would you put it like that? Is he always this way?" he asked, looking at Furthers. "Do you think I'd have notified your headquarters if I weren't sure?"
He opened the folder on his desk and began reading.
"Corporal Stanislaus Zylkowski, pay accounts clerk, Canadian Forces, and his accomplice Rona Menard, estranged wife of trucker Russel Menard, wanted for...need I go on?"
"I'd like to talk to them," said Broom.
"They're not here Sergeant."
"I don't understand. Your report said you had them."
"That's not correct. I told headquarters they were here. I didn't say we had them."
Broom was getting annoyed with this run around.
"You can bring them in if you want to?"
"Of course. I can bring anyone in if I want to. But with these two people, I'm not sure I want to."
"Is there something wrong Captain?" asked Furthers.
"I wouldn't put it quite that way Senorita. Let me say the situation is not exactly as it was when the robbers came to my country."
"So what's happened?" asked Broom.
"First of all Sergeant, these are not bad people...not like those drug smugglers, and those men who hide my people in trucks and leave them to die in the desert. Senor Silky and Senorita Rona are very nice people. I'm not sure it's right to let you take them back to Canada to spend time in prison. In the short time they've been here, they have done a lot of good."
"That's not what the newspaper said. I'm surprised you haven't locked them up for attempted murder."
"First of all my friends, they did not shoot Sanchez. A young child did it. That shooting has led to several other consequences, which includes the capture of the key man in the chicken trade."
"Chicken trade?"
"The smuggling of little children for the white slave market in the states...for pedophiles and pornographers...and rich Yankee farmers looking for slaves to work in their vineyards, and orchards up north. Thanks to Senor Silky, we've captured all the men involved in that filthy business of kidnapping and selling our unfortunate street kids. That's what I mean when I say they've done a lot of good."
"But he's wanted back in my country for stealing over half a million dollars. You can't just turn your back on something like that."
"Half a million dollars...Canadian dollars at that?"
"Half a million dollars is a lot of money in whatever currency we're talking." said Broom.
"That's his only crime?"
"It was armed robbery."
"Of course it was. How do you expect to have a robbery without a gun," said Juarez.
"Is all this debate leading to something?" asked Furthers."
"You are saying, the robbery is his only crime?" asked Juarez again.
"There's a whole list of charges...resisting arrest, stealing a police vehicle, other charges in the states. Oh! And I almost forgot...desertion from the Canadian Forces."
"Let's be realistic Sergeant. Those other charges you mention aren't very important are they?"
"What do you mean not important? He could be sent to jail for any one of them."
Juarez could sense his delaying tactics were beginning to have their affect on the Mounties.
"As I see it my friends, the most important thing in this case is the money. Silky and Rona are not a danger to society. In fact, as I've already told you, these two courageous young people alone have destroyed one of the worst gangs in Tijuana. Imagine for a moment how you would feel if you learned that someone had ended the smuggling of little children into the states to be abused by wealthy perverts. Don't you think they would deserve some consideration?"
"What is it you want to propose Captain?" asked Furthers.
"Do you watch much Yankee TV Senorita?"
"Some...why do you ask?"
"I'd like to do like they do on TV...I think they call it, 'plea bargain'."
"No way! We came to take them back, and we've got a court order to do just that," said Broom.
"Then I'm sorry my friends...I can't help you."
"You sure as hell will. I'll take this to the Police Commissioner. You have no right to obstruct justice like this."
"What Police Commissioner? There is no such thing. Only a police chief, and you're looking at him."
"Come on Becky. There's a Canadian Consul here. We'll report it to him."
"Cool it Rick...Let's hear what he's got to say."
"It's no use. Kelly won't bargain."
"Who's Kelly?" asked Juarez.
"Inspector Kelly. Our boss back in Canada. Rigid as a poker. No one can get him to make a deal. He prides himself on always saving his own ass before anything else."
"Even if it meant you would get back every cent that was stolen?"
"Six hundred and twenty thousand dollars?" asked Broom.
"That's right...over half a million bucks...Canadian."
"How are you going to get the money?"
"Let's say I have ways."
"And what will you get out of it?"
"You drop all the other charges, and let them stay in my country."
"How do we know they want to stay?"
"You get your boss...what's his name...?"
"Inspector Kelly."
"Right. You get your Inspector to agree, and I'll take you to see your robbers."
Broom looked at Furthers. They had become such good partners they could almost tell what each other was thinking by just looking at their expression.
"Can we have a chance to talk in private?"
"Of course...Take all the time you need."
Broom closed the door behind him, and sat on the corner of his desk.
"What the hell do you think about that?"
"Not exactly what we expected that's for sure."
"But he's right you know. It's the money they want. Who the hell cares whether or not he deserts the army. His three year tour was almost finished. And as far as the stolen car was concerned, we got that back."
"So what do you want from me?" asked Becky
"You're honest opinion...Do you think we should present this scheme to Kelly?" "What have we got to lose. If he says no, we bring them back. If he says yes, it's simple. We get a bank draft for the full amount and everybody's happy."
"Did you know that bastard Kelly threatened to send me on an Arctic posting if we screwed up. I just hope to hell this idea doesn't end up with me learning Eskimo dancing."
"But Juarez is right. Who cares about two fugitives staying in Mexico, as long as we bring back the loot."
"Then you're saying I should call Kelly."
"I'm not sure I'd call him."
"Then what the hell are you saying?"
"You know Kelly. He might agree on the telephone, then some muckymuck in Ottawa raises a stink, and Kelly hangs us out to dry. If you're going to tell him, do it in writing. Send a telex. At least then you've got some proof."
"You're right you know that."
"Of course I'm right. That's why you like having me as a partner."
"Kelly is a real shit heal when it comes to supporting his men."
"That's why you've got to do it this way. And I think he'll go for it. He's running out of time, and getting the money back would be a feather in his cap."
"Can you imagine how many guys in the past thirty years have been shafted by that sonofabitch."
"Forget Kelly. Let's tell Juarez what we're going to do."
Broom opened the office door. Juarez was talking with some of his men, standing by the bulletin board.
"I'd like to talk to you Captain."
"I'll be right there Senor."
Closing the door behind him, Juarez looked at his two visitors.
"So what have you decided?"
"We'll give it a try."
"The plea bargaining?"
"We'll do it by telex."
"Telephone would be much quicker Sergeant."
"I know, but we must follow procedures. Have you a telex facility?"
"Of course...We are a small force Senor, but we have all the modern equipment. When you have your message ready, I'll have my clerk send it for you."

View original art by William James Johnson at www.noozoon.com

Payroll by William James Johnson Chapter 34

Waiting for Carlos to call was nerve wracking. Silky and Rona tried to console their servants, while Carmelita and Francisco expressed their sorrow for the loss of Miguel.
"We'll get them back...I promise. Even if it takes all our money."
"A man like Carlos makes me so ashamed to be a Mexican."
"It wasn't just Carlos...remember Hansen was the boss and he's an American. What I can't understand is someone selling children like that, with no feelings about what might happen to them."
"Money Senor. If Americanos did not have all that money to do whatever they want, there would be no chicken business."
"Eduardo told me you're nothing in Mexico unless you have power, and you have power only if you're rich."
"He's right Senor. But being rich does not mean you must be bad. You can use your power to build instead of destroy. You are rich, but you are a good man. Americanos, like most Mexicans are good people. It's those filthy rich bandits who use their power to corrupt the innocent who are evil. They can buy anything, even people, to do their killing for them. I despise them."
"And once this corruption takes hold of a country, it spreads like cancer," said Silky.
"It's true. That's how bribery has become a way of life. It's been with us so long, even the simplest peasant keeps a few pesos to grease the palms of civil servants. It's everywhere."
"Why don't your police stop it?"
"You're joking Senor. I saw a policeman in uniform use his gun to rob an Americano, and no one dared stop him. Some of us say that being a policeman is a licence to steal. It's so hard to be good when being bad gives you a better life."
"They can't all be bad."
"There are some good ones Senor...but they have learned that it is better to be blind and keep your job. I think Captain Juarez is an honest man. But who knows, even the good Captain can be bought if the price is right."
"This is a terrible situation. Someone has to fight back Francisco. Someone must try to save the soul of this country."
"How can we talk about saving the soul when the body is starving. You must have seen those tin shacks on the edge of Tijuana, where you come across the border. It is like that outside every big city in Mexico. Starving peasants who become the victims of these smuggling bandits, believing their children will be given a good home up north. They give their children to these filthy monsters because they think their kids will have a chance for a better life. They love their children. No one tells them how rotten these bastards are."
"Tell him about those people who cripple their children to make beggars of them," said Carmelita.
"If you go to Mexico City, within the shadow of the great Cathedral, you will find children who have had arms or legs bound up for years to cause their tiny muscles to stop working, so they can be used as professional beggars. Some poor parents prostitute their little kids for a few pesos...little boys and girls...like my Juan and Teresita. The thought of it makes me vomit. Then along comes a man like Hansen, who lies to these poor people, promising their children a better life in the states, and they become slaves for some rich landowner or rotten pornographer. There is no justice Senor."
"If I had my way, guys like Hansen and Carlos would be beaten and left to decay in prison. They're the scum of the earth," said Silky.
Rona looked at the clock over the mantle. It was after 10 and Carlos still had not called. "If he doesn't call by midnight I think we should let Juarez know."
"Si...Me and Carmelita agree...it's so hard not knowing."
"Okay", said Silky. I'll call him then. All this talk about those poor kids is getting me down. Talk about something else...something happier."
"What would you like to talk about Senor?"
"How about telling us something about you and Carmelita. We really don't know much about you."
"What would you like to ask me Senor?"
"Silky's not trying to quiz you Francisco," said Rona. "We'd like to know something about your childhood...where you lived...how you met...things like that. If you don't think we're being too nosey."
"You're not nosey Senorita. You're very good friends."
"Getting your family mixed up in this dirty business is not what I would call friendly," replied Rona.
"Please do not blame yourselves. You did not have the chicken business."
"Thanks Francisco for saying that. Me and Silky really appreciate it...Now what I'd like to hear is how you met and fell in love."
The magical word love, and the warmth of her voice, comforted the hurting Mexicans. It brought a tender smile to the worried face of this desperate father.
"I'm happy to tell you about me and Carmelita. Since we were children, there was never anyone else for me. Our farms shared a common stream. They were small farms, still our fathers managed to raise large families, something like your friend Fernando. We're almost the same age. People thought we were brother and sister because we were always together. It was a very happy childhood.
"When Carmelita was twelve, things changed. Suddenly without telling anyone, she was becoming a beautiful woman. They tell me our girls become women sooner than they do in your country. I think it was her rounding out in her chest that was the greatest surprise...Once it began, it went very quickly. It was so wonderful."
Carmelita looked down as he spoke, her tawny face darkening slightly.
"Please my love do not think me crude. You have always had the most beautiful breasts I have ever seen." For a moment it was as if they were alone. He stopped speaking, thinking maybe he was being too personal.
"Go on Francisco. I think it's wonderful to hear you speak so lovingly of your wife," said Rona.
"Is it all right Carmelita?"
"Yes Francisco. It's all right."
"I wanted to marry her then, but we had to wait. When we were both sixteen, we were given permission to marry. The whole village came to the wedding. It was fiesta time. Our parents let us marry because they knew we were in love, and Carmelita had a job looking after the children of a wealthy landowner. He hired me to take care of his animals. We were very lucky. Most young people don't have such a good start in life.
"We lived with him for a few years, then Juan was born. This rich farmer was like you Senor Silky...you and Senorita Rona. He treated our new baby like it was his own.
"Then tragedy struck. You may have read about it in your country. The farm which was in a beautiful valley was destroyed by one of Mexico's most treacherous earthquakes. A great flood followed, and the farmer and his family drowned while they slept. We had gone home because my father was dying. It was like God took my father, to spare us our lives."
"What a sad story. I'm sorry for you," said Silky, remembering how his own parents had drowned in Uncle Henry's dugout. "Please go on."
"This man knew many rich people...which in Mexico is a small number, and one of his friends, the man who used to live in this very house, asked us to come to work for him. We had no idea how he got his money. We were so glad to have a place to live. Two years later we had our darling Teresita. Oh my darling little baby...where are you my lovely child?"
The mention of his children made his voice break. He put his head down on his arm and wept softly. Carmelita embraced her husband and comforted him.
"I can't understand why Carlos hasn't called," said Silky, changing the subject.
"Look...It's been a terrible day for all of us. Why don't you get some sleep? I don't mind waiting up. If he hasn't called by midnight, I'll contact Juarez."
"I'd like to wait with you Silky," said Rona.
"Please Senor...I think we would like to wait too."
"Okay...If we're all going to stay up, I think we should have something to eat. I'm gonna make us a pizza. I don't know about you folks, but I'm starving."
"I'll make it for you Senor," said Carmelita.
"Okay...you make it, but only if Rona helps. She knows what I like on it."
The two women left the men in the family room.
"Thank you Senor for doing that. I couldn't go on. I cannot stop thinking about my little babies."
"I know Francisco. I just hope I'm doing the right thing."
"You are Senor. We must give him a chance to call us before we call the police. In my country the walls have ears. If we called the Captain, there is no doubt Carlos would hear about it right away. Then who knows what he would do to them."
"We've got about an hour to go...then I'm calling Juarez, whatever the risk."
"Senor Silky...would you mind if I asked you a question? You don't have to answer if you don't want to."
"Of course, what is it?"
"What it said in the paper about you and Senorita Rona, is it true?"
"Yes...it's true."
"Why Senor? Why would you steal the money?"
"It's hard to explain amigo. I guess I did it because I wanted to be free. You said it yourself, money is power, and power makes you free."
"But did you not think it was wrong?"
"I honestly didn't think about it. No one was hurt. It was just money. I wanted to change my life and taking the money was the way to do it."
"I'm not trying to judge what you did Senor, but I cannot understand how you could take something that was not yours and it would not bother you."
"I was more concerned about not getting caught."
"And you still don't feel it was wrong?"
"That's your Catholic conscience talking Francisco."
"Maybe so Senor...I'm sorry to talk like this. It's just the way I am."
"You don't have to apologize. The world seems to be losing its conscience. It's refreshing to find someone who still knows right from wrong."
Their discussion was interrupted by the telephone ringing.
"Hello."
"Senor Silky?"
"Speaking."
"Simon Juarez. I have someone who wishes to speak to you."
The women joined them in the family room, anxiously waiting to hear the news.
"Poppa...It's me Miguel."
The sound of his voice sent an electric charge through his body.
"Miguel...What are you doing with the police? How are the other children? When are you coming home?"
"It's me again Senor."
"What has happened Captain? How are the children?"
"They are fine...just fine."
Silky pulled the receiver away from his mouth..."He said they're fine...Oh God...Thank you...Thank you."
"Senor?"
"Yes...go on Captain."
"You will not have to worry about Carlos anymore."
"What's happened?"
"Miguel said that two men who used to work across the border for Hansen...the ones who had been beaten by Fernando and Carlos, came to Hansen's house and had a fight with Carlos. He was beaten to death. Miguel saw the whole thing."
"Oh that poor kid...What a horrible experience."
"He is very smart, this son of yours. When they left, he called us. I guess Carlos felt that with Hansen gone, it would be a good place to hide out. He also told the kids he wanted to collect that cabinet he built to ship them into the states if he had to."
"It was still there?"
"Yes. Next to the bloody stain where Sanchez was found. When the two Americans broke in the front door, Miguel grabbed the kids and hid them in the cabinet. He knew how it worked. Miguel and Juan hid in the back of the cabinet, and the little girl hid in the front. Your boy was the only one who saw what they did to Carlos through the mesh that was stretched across the back."
"How did these guys know where Carlos was?"
"The story in the newspaper brought them out of hiding. They went to his studio first and wrecked it when he was not there. Then they came to Hansen's estate, where Sanchez lived when he was in Mexico. They knew all about it. They had been there many times to pick up little kids."
"And the men who killed Carlos?"
"We're watching for them at the border. I have put extra men on. They will not get past us. Miguel was able to pick them out of a mug book. You remember he was one of the five little fellows Carlos and Fernando helped escape. These guys are notorious Yankee smugglers."
"What about our kids? When will they be back."
"As soon as it takes me to drive to your hacienda. We are leaving now...I just thought you would like to know what happed to them. The waiting without knowing can kill you. Goodbye Senor."
Silky said thanks but Juarez had already hung up.
"They're on their way." With this, they hugged each other, sobbing quietly.

Please comment on your feelings about this novel. Also,would you like to read another of my novels, entitled, "Freement"? Thanks, Bill Johnson.

Payroll by William James Johnson Chapter 33

Before returning home, Silky used a pay phone outside the clinic and called the telephone company and asked them to send a repairman as soon as possible.
"They said they'll send someone right away."
"Gawd I hope so," said Rona. "Without a phone, out there on that hill. I feel completely isolated."
"Juarez told me you called him. I'm sure glad you did."
"When I saw Hansen with those men, I knew something was wrong."
"Our luck is still holding out. If the police hadn't shown up, we could've all been killed."
"And Hansen would have our money..."
Her mention of the money started Silky thinking again about what Juarez proposed as a solution.
"What do you really think?"
"About what?"
"Giving back the money if the Mounties will deal."
"You really want to know?"
"Of course...what do you think?"
"I've got that same feeling I had when I switched the money on Thistlegrow."
"You mean you don't believe him?"
"It seems too easy the way he put it."
"Then your saying you wouldn't give back the money?"
"I think if you give it back, they're still going to put us in the slammer. These guys aren't gonna do us any favours. Why should they?"
"I think Juarez owes us, and he knows it,...for busting up the chicken trade...that oughta be worth something."
"Look, you asked me how I feel about it, and I told you. And excuses aren't going to get me to change my mind."
"What would you do then, if you were me?"
"Naw! If I tell you, you'll just get mad, and we sure don't need that...not with the other problems we've got."
Her answer disturbed him. He could tell when she had something on her mind and was holding back. Pulling the jeep to the side of the road, he stopped the engine, in the distance they could see the tile roof of their hacienda and the top of the high wall which surrounded their estate.
"Why did you stop?"
"Tell me what you'd do...I won't get mad. I need to know."
"I might as well. You'll bug me until I do."
"Am I really like that?"
"When you want something, you don't quit until you get it. In many ways that's one of the things I like so much about you."
"Okay...then why fight it? Tell me what you would do in this case."
"You're gonna think I'm pretty selfish in what I would do, but it is the safest way outa this mess."
"Go on. Being selfish is not always so bad."
"I'd have Eduardo sell all our securities and get a bank draft for the whole amount, and disappear again."
"And leave our lovely house...and Miguel. And what about Sandy?"
"See I knew you'd get pissed off. I shouldn't have told you."
"Jeezus Rona. Your idea would mean giving up all this good stuff that means so much to us."
"Because we're gonna have to give it up anyway if we stay. This way, we've got enough bucks to go anywhere... live anywhere. Get as far away from this place as we can."
"And Miguel?"
"There'll be other Miguels...there always are. We have to start thinking of ourselves first Silky. Who knows, maybe even Eduardo can't be trusted."
He had thought about this himself, but his faith in Fernando made him accept the honesty of his old school chum. What the hell...He made a tremendous amount of money for them in very little time. Her negative attitude made him extremely defensive.
"So we're back on your favourite subject again. Just because you have trouble trusting people, is no reason you should attack my trust."
"I never criticized your trust Silky...never once. You're trying to pick a fight, and I don't want to fight with you."
He was becoming infuriated with her characterization of him. He liked to think he was successful because he could "keep his cool".
"I think this is worth fighting over...Did you ever think that maybe it's you who can't be trusted?"
"I can't believe you said that. Not after all we've been through."
"Seems that way...Jeezus! Suddenly my life has meaning and you want to undermine it. I did okay before you came along, and goddamn it, I'll get along just fine after you're gone."
That did it. With a full swing she slapped him across the face, and opening the jeep door, jumped out.
"What the hell...Rona for Chrissake. Why'd you do that?"
"Figure it out for yourself. You want to be on your own...you've got it.'
She began walking back down the dirt road towards Tijuana. Silky started the jeep and turned it around.
"Don't do this Rona...I'm sorry. I didn't mean it."
"Of course you did. Just like Carlos asking us to trust him. Remember that Silky, and you finally gave in. And look what happened."
"Come on sweety...get back in the jeep. I'm really sorry."
"How could you say you can't trust me?...Christ Silky, I had so many chances to take off and leave you on your own, but I didn't."
She stopped walking away from him. He turned off the motor and got out. Taking her in his arms, he held her tightly, reassuring her. Brushing back here hair, he wiped away her tears.
"I'm such a stupid ass hole."
His description of himself made her chuckle. "Even ass holes are good for something."
As they spoke, the telephone repairman honked when he passed .
"Hey!...looks like we lucked in again."
"So what are we going to do Silky?"
"For one thing, we're going to stop this dumb arguing. You're probably right. We should forget about our idealism, at least for now, and start thinking of how we can save ourselves."
"And you're not mad at me for suggesting it?"
"If I remember correctly, you told me once that if we went on the bus together, it would be a first for both of us."
Rona began to laugh. "I do remember saying that, but what's that got to do with us now?"
"I think I'd better start doing more listening, and you do more talking."
"You're right...That would be a first for both of us."
The tension relieved, they kissed again, and got back into the jeep.
"I think I know why I acted so stupid," explained Silky.
"I know why you did."
"Okay. I'm listening."
"You want this whole thing to work out your way, so you're willing to give these people the benefit of the doubt. I'm different. I'd rather believe a person who shows me he can be trusted, than one who asks me to trust him. Does that make any sense?"
"Couldn't have put it any better myself."
Rona held his arm until they got home. The front gate was wide open. Stopping the jeep beside the repair truck, they hurried into the house.
"Thank God you're here," said the repairman.
Sitting on the tiled floor, a bloody towel in her hands, Carmelita buried her face.
"What the hell happened?"
"I found her in the foyer...bound and tied. Someone has sure done a good job on her face."
Rona dropped onto the floor beside Carmelita and took her tortured face into her hands.
"What happened Carmelita?"
"The man you call Carlos, came after you left with the police Captain. He said he wanted money because Hansen did not pay him for his work. I told him I had no money. Then he hit me and hit me."
'Where was Francisco?"
"He left after you to get a carpenter in town to come and fix the damage."
"Didn't he lock the gate?"
"Yes Senor...but Carlos rang the bell, and he said he had to see you. I wouldn't let him in...then he said it was about Pedro, and I was sure you would want to know about the child, so I unlocked it."
"Gawd...What kinda monster is he? Where are the children now?"
"That's it Senor Silky...He took them with him. Miguel, and my two kids. He said if he doesn't get the money from you, he will sell them to some Americanos, and they will do all kinds of terrible things to them. I am sorry Senor. I should never have unlocked the gate."
"It's not your fault Carmelita. You did what we would have done. I think we should get you to the doctor."
"No...no Senor. I'll be all right. It is just my face."
"You're sure?" asked Rona.
"Yes Senorita, I'm sure."
"What is Carlos going to do now?"
"He said he will call you later to tell you what you must do. I told him the telephone was not working, but that did not seem to matter."
Silky turned to the repairman. "How long is it going to take to fix it?"
"Twenty minutes Senor, that's all."
"Please hurry. I want to call Captain Juarez."
"Si Senor...right away."
Rona took Carmelita to her room to comfort her. Her children, Juan 11, and Terisita 9, were her main reason for living. She and Francisco were so happy they could stay when these new owners took over the estate. They were delighted Silky and Rona treated them like family. Now that Carlos kidnapped her children, the poor woman was devastated.
Silky's mood had changed from hopeful optimism, to black despair. He could handle setbacks in his own life, but when it included others, particularly children, he was crushed. He didn't know if he should call the police and show his hand, or wait until Carlos tried to get in touch with him. He felt if the crook was intent on getting the money, he would not harm the children until he had found out what Silky was going to do first.
With this change in circumstances, one thing was certain. He wasn't prepared to get their money from Eduardo and disappear as Rona had suggested. He would stay and fight it out. He felt responsible for jeopardizing the lives of Carmelita's children, and he couldn't pretend it hadn't happened.
When the repairman left, he locked the front gate and returned to the house. Walking along the corridor which led to the family room, he could hear Carmelita sobbing behind the closed door, and the comforting voice of Rona. He thought again about that ridiculous scene with Rona when they returned from town. He could hear himself saying he could do it alone. If only they knew. Inside his scheming head was a frightened little boy. He had always been afraid, since the time he got out of the old Buick when it sank in Uncle Henry's dugout, and he had to struggle alone to get out of the freezing water, and make it to the farm house on a bitter prairie night.
This flashback made him remember losing his parents. He had tried so hard to avoid these painful thoughts as he was growing up, but trying to forget just made them more poignant. He transferred his own loss to that of Carmelita. In many ways it would be easier to accept the death of small children than the thought of the cruel life ahead as a victim of the 'chicken trade'.
He went to the bar and poured himself a tequila, more out of habit cultivated since associating with his Mexican friends, than out of preference. He still considered himself a non-drinker. Taking a deep swallow of the foul tasting stuff, he wiped his mouth on the back of his hand and put the glass back on the bar.
"Jeezus...how can they drink this stuff?"
The bell at the front gate sounded. Hurrying to the front yard, he vowed if they kept this house, he would have a security camera mounted out front with a remote button for opening the gate.
"Who is it?"
"Francisco."
"Are you alone?"
"Si Senor."
Silky was super cautious this time. Carefully looking both ways through the small hole, he slipped the bolt and opened the gate.
"Come in Francisco...Hurry."
"Si Senor..What is wrong?"
"Let me get you a drink."
Francisco grabbed him by the arm. He had never been so bold before.
"Something is wrong?..Senor?" He began to shout. "Carmelita," his voice echoing in the large foyer."Is it my kids? Tell me Senor...Juan...Teresita. Something happened in the pool? Juan!...Teresita!" he shouted again. "What have you done with them?"
"They have been kidnapped by that crook Carlos. He took Miguel too."
"Oh no...no,no. Say it is not so...my little babies."
"It is true my friend. We'll do whatever it takes to get them back. When we were gone, he came looking for money and he beat Carmelita and tied her up."
"No...oh no Senor. Not my Carmelita."
She's in her room with Rona. I think we should let them be for now...please let me get you a drink."
Tears welled up in his dark Mexican eyes, and his face became contorted in pain as he tried not to cry. Silky put his arm around his servant.
"Let it out amigo. It is better this way."
Francisco dropped onto the low couch and covered his eyes with his arm and sobbed.
"My little babies with that monster. I will kill him. I promise you. I will kill that filthy beast."
"I was going to call Captain Juarez, but I thought if Carlos found out, he might harm the children. We're going to have to wait until he calls."
"But the phone is out of order."
"It's been fixed."
"Goddamn it...if Raoul had not pulled out those wires, I would have been here when he came."
"Don't blame yourself amigo. None of us expected this...It's up to you. If you want me to call the police, I will. I don't want to risk the lives of our children."
When he said, "our children", Francisco realized for the first time he had not been considering how Silky must be feeling now that Miguel was gone too.
"Forgive me for being so selfish Senor."
"You're not selfish."
"I never gave any thought about you and Senorita Rona losing your little boy...I'm sorry amigo. I'll have that drink now. Then maybe you will let me talk to Carmelita...alone."

View original art by author William James Johnson at www.noozoon.com

Payroll by William James Johnson Chapter 32

Captain Juarez was on his third tequila when Silky finished his story about how he and Rona ended up in Mexico. He kept a good supply of the potent brew for his friend Fernando who drank the stuff like water, never showing any effects. Obviously Juarez had the same talent.
"And after everything you've told me, you still expect me to believe the payroll robbery was a mistake?"
"I know it sounds crazy Captain, but it's true. In the beginning I'll admit I planned to take the money and disappear, but then things changed."
"Of course they changed. You couldn't find the money."
"That's not what I mean."
"Then tell me Senor what 'do' you mean?"
"When I was told the Army had selected me for Officer Candidate School, it affected my whole attitude. At last I'd have the chance to be somebody. Unfortunately they didn't tell me about it until after the robbery."
"But the officer's course was a sham. You had them believing you were preparing for it, by completing university courses. You got the chaplain's recommendation to live off the base because you said you needed a quiet place to work on your studies. What you really wanted, was to be away from the others because you were training your accomplice for the robbery, and didn't want anyone to know about your dog. Is that not so?"
Silky was impressed with his ability to see through his explanation. Juarez was a very competent opponent.
"It was that way in the beginning. I've already told you that. Besides, I never thought I stood a chance. What the hell, I had a Captain who thought drinking with the boys was more important than developing your brain. I think he was jealous of me working on university subjects..."
"But..." interrupted Juarez, "You weren't working on courses. He just thought you were...Why do you say he was jealous?"
"Because he got his commission the hard way."
"Which means...?"
"He got a field commission in Korea...for courage and other good stuff. He was the kind of leader who wanted all his guys to be buddy-buddy, and I wasn't that kinda guy. That's why I was so surprised when Major Perkins told me I was accepted for OCS."
"Your Captain sounds reasonable to me. I think I would feel the same way if one of my men decided not to be a team player. You aren't a team player are you Senor?"
"What's that got to do with the robbery?"
"Everything...if you could trust others, you might have succeeded as a robber. But instead, you trusted the dog, and we know what happened then."
"It wasn't Sandy's fault. After all the training time we spent together, I neglected to follow through on my plan. Maybe as you say using Sandy was a mistake, although he wasn't the one who failed. I was the screw-up. Forget him for now and listen to what I'm saying. I'm very serious. For the Army to offer me the chance to get my commission was very important for me."
Rona could see through Silky's act. He could do this "very sincere" routine better than most. Underlying it was his desire to gain Juarez' confidence.
"And for this chance to be an officer, you want me to believe you were willing to change all your plans?"
"Every bit."
"Really Senor...You mean you would just forget all those things you did...the trip to Florida to get the dog, training him to take the poisoned meatball, the old van, living alone in the farm house...everything you told me?"
"That's right Captain...all of it. In fact I gave the Mounties who were doing the investigation, my report on why I stole the payroll."
"Which you admit writing after the fact, because you were trying to...pardon the expression Senora Rona...cover your ass."
"But I've already told you, I couldn't give back the money. I didn't know where the dog buried it."
"That would be funny Senor, if it were not so sad."
"You wouldn't think so if it had been you."
"I would not have used the animal in the first place."
"But Sandy's been so good. Take today for instance. He put his life on the line for me."
"Training amigo...just training. You want this beast to be more than a dog, so you think of him as a friend."
"He is my friend."
"Where was it you said he hid the money?"
"In the floor of his doghouse. He wasn't hiding it really. Sandy just liked to bury things, that's all."
"Then please tell me, if like you say your whole attitude changed, why you made a run for it once you got the money, instead of turning it over like you wanted?"
"We had no choice...the Mounties wouldn't believe my story...thank God Rona found my gun. She and Sandy helped me capture the Mounties and tie them up. If it wasn't for her, we'd be doing hard time at Stoney Mountain, instead of talking to you."
"And this lady was your partner by this time."
"Let me tell him Silky," said Rona, patiently waiting her turn."
"Please go ahead Senorita...It is Senorita is it not?"
"It is...Me and Silky are not married. That is...what the hell, I'm married but not to Silky."
"Not yet Captain, but we're going to get married as soon as Rona gets her divorce."
"How did you become partners?"
"I met Silky at a party in the Corporal's Club. A lot of us girls from the town used to be invited whenever there was a special bash. This time it was the St.Patrick's dance. At first I though he was kinda weird. Then I realized it was because he wasn't like the other guys. He was sweet, and caring. I really liked him. We started seeing more of each other after that night. In fact, I kinda looked on Silky as being my man."
"What about your husband?"
"Oh that was over for quite awhile...I was finished with it, but Russ kept thinking we'd get back together. When I got to know Silky better, I knew I'd never go back to Russ."
"So you two started living together...just like that."
"No. We didn't. That came after the trouble I had with my boss."
"What kind of trouble?" asked Juarez, pouring himself more Tequila.
"The creep would never keep his hands off me. I was a waitress in his truck stop. Then one day, when we were alone, he tried to force me to do it. I yelled at him to back off, but that just made him more aggressive. Next thing I know, I'm fightin' for my life. I don't want you to think I'm a prude or nothin' but I wasn't gonna give in to this bastard. He kept tryin' to hold me down, but I managed to get a leg free, and I gave him a swift kick in the you know what, and he doubled over. I got to hell outa there as fast as I could. Apparently I must have made a direct hit. They say he almost bled to death before they got him to the hospital. I panicked. I didn't know what to do. I wanted to find Silky, but I didn't even know where his farmhouse was. A farmer who used to come into our joint, remembered seeing an abandoned farm that used to have a light in the windows at night. When I got there it was dark, and Silky let me in. The rest is history."
"That is one helluva story. Why didn't you go to the police and charge your boss with rape."
"I was just a waitress. He'd done things like this with the other girls. No one ever complained. They needed the job. I was tryin' to make it without Russ. This guy was the worst kind. He knew he could get away with murder with 'his' girls. Then when I hurt him, I was really afraid to tell the cops. They put out a warrant for my arrest for criminal assault."
"You two have had a hard time with the system."
"You can say that again," said Silky.
"And now we come to the part about the old pilot...what's his name?"
"That sonofabitch...Ivan Thistlegrow. Tried to rip us off. Jumped out of the plane without a qualm about how the hell we would make out...Took a bag of my clothes, thinking it was the payroll. Rona managed to make the switch when she went to the washroom in back...I think that bastard should be charged with attempted murder, that's what I think."
"So do I. One thing I can't stand is when one crook is not honourable with another crook, know what I mean?" said the Captain, smiling sardonically.
"Look Captain, I've told you the whole story. Even the part about what we want to do with our money...the kids and all. You've got to give us a break. We're not bandits. We're just ordinary people who want a chance at a decent life."
"First of all Senor...you are seriously mistaken...it is not your money. The money was stolen. So please let's not pretend that all of a sudden you have done nothing wrong. It will be up to the Canadian courts to decide that."
"But we'll give back the money...more if we have to. We really want to spend the rest of our lives in your lovely country, and start a family...We've already got Miguel, and now that you have arrested Hansen, we'll take care of Pedro. After all, it was our concern about that little kid that brought all this chicken business to a head. You didn't see us back off just because it was dangerous."
"No one is doubting your courage Senor. Taking on Tomaso without a gun, just you and your dog, was extremely brave, if not very sensible. But you keep forgetting to mention, crimes have been committed...several crimes."
"But that was then...this is now. Can't you help us somehow?"
"Eduardo was right...He told me you were a very clever man Senor Silky. You know I came here to arrest you, but instead you ask me to help you."
"Please Captain Juarez...We need your help," asked Rona.
"You two have me...as 'Dirty Harry' would say, between a rock and a hard place. Singlehandedly you have brought to an end that rotten business of selling our kids...at least for the time being... risking your own lives. And you tell me you want to use your wealth to provide a decent family for other street children...You make it so tough for me to decide what to do."
"You will help us then?" asked Silky.
"Tell me the truth Senor. No long stories this time. Are you serious about giving back the money you stole?"
"Of course...all of it. With Eduardo's excellent advice we have more than enough."
"And your desertion from the Canadian Army?"
"My three year contract was just about finished. I think that's one of the reasons they decided to let me go to OCS. They do that to some guys to get them to sign on again. I'm sure if you tell them how much we helped get rid of the chicken trade, they'll be more lenient."
"I don't know what to say. Your story is fascinating, but then, most criminals are fascinating. That's why I chose this career. Still you have committed many offences, not just the payroll robbery."
"What the hell do you mean?"
"The plane you stole from Thistlegrow..."
"He left it with us when he jumped out. We didn't steal the goddamn thing. We were just lucky we got it down without getting killed."
"And the mafia limo you stole in Vegas."
"For Chrissake Captain...weren't you listening to my story. Those bastards broke into our room to steal our money. We used their car to get away. It was either us or them."
"Okay...okay. We're not getting anywhere. You've got an excuse for everything. I just want you to see that letting you off is not going to be as simple as that. We haven't even dealt with the Sanchez thing yet, or Carlos Velasquez."
"I don't even know where Carlos is. And believe me, I had no idea he was working for Hansen. We had to use him to find Pedro. He was our only lead. How did we know they planned to get rid of Sanchez, and set us up to do the dirty work. This is a helluva mess Captain, and without your help, we're screwed. You've gotta help us."
"Despite all my doubts, I believe you when you say you want to give back the money...I really do. But I don't mind telling you it's very confusing. Maybe I've had too much tequila. But at this moment, I think maybe I would like to do something to help you."
That was all they had to hear. Rona and Silky embraced the inebriated policeman.
"Fantastic. That's all we're asking. Just think about it."
"The Mounties will be here day after tomorrow. Let's see if we can make them a deal they can't refuse." Now he was sounding like the "Godfather>". Juarez loved American crime movies.
This sudden change was a great relief for Silky. He could feel his confidence coming back. Pouring the Captain some more tequila, he decided to ask a favour.
"Now if you don't mind, I'd like to get into town and see how Sandy's making out.
"You promise you won't run out on me?" asked Juarez, smiling.
"Cross my heart and hope to die," answered Silky.
"Was that a yes or what?"
"It was the strongest kinda yes he can give," said Rona.
Carmelita stayed with the children as the two drove the jeep, followed by Juarez in the cruiser. The police had taken the prisoners in Hansen's limo, into Tijuana General Hospital for treatment. Fernando had left the distributor cap on the ground under the front bumper.
There was only one place Fernando and Eduardo could take Sandy. Doctor Ricardo Gomez was the chief of veterinary surgery at the clinic adjacent to the famous bull ring. Many Americanos had their first experience at this blood sport in the dusty stadium outside of town.
"He is weak amigos...he lost a lot of blood. But he's going to make it. I can tell he is a fighter. He has been wounded before."
"Will he be able to walk?"
"Certainly, but I think you will have to keep him as a friend. His days as a guard dog are over. Sandy will not have the quickness he used to have. I will remove the cast in about six weeks."
"Does this mean we can take him with us?"
"I would rather you let me keep him under observation for a couple of days. I want to be sure he has no infection from the bullet. Is there anything else I can do for you?"
"Can we see him Doctor?"
"Yes, of course...but he will not see you. He hasn't come out of the anaesthesia yet."
Doctor Gomez led them into the back room where he conducted the surgery. They were amazed at how spotless his hospital was. "It's just like a real hospital," said Rona.
"It is a real hospital amigos. These are living creatures like you and me. They deserve the best treatment we can give them when they are hurt."
Sandy was lying in a wire cage, his right rear leg outstretched in a cast, with a small caster on the foot.
""Why the wheel?"
"When he is feeling better, he's going to want to get around. The wheel will reduce the mechanical damage he might do to the limb while it's healing."
"He's a fine looking animal isn't he Doctor?"
"He really is Senor...a fine animal."
Waiting outside in Eduardo's car were their two friends, anxious to hear about Sandy's condition.
"Thanks so much fellows for looking after Sandy."
"We went as fast as we could," said Fernando. "He lost a lot of blood. What did Doctor Gomez tell you?"
"It's going to take awhile, but he should be okay again...Thanks to you two."
"And Juarez? What about him?" asked Eduardo.
"Thinks we might be able to work a deal with the Mounties when they get here."
"So there's a chance you will be staying?"
"He thinks there is...We'll probably have to give back the payroll money."
"How much was that?"
"Six hundred grand."
"We can cover that. Let me know when you want to cash some securities."
"Gawd, I don't know how come we're so lucky to have such great friends."
"It takes two to be friends," said Fernando.
"Thanks again for looking after Sandy. We better get back home. It's going to need some fixing."

Please write me a comment on your feelings about my novel. Thanks Bill Johnson