Quest 2

The Quest 2

The Quest 2

Published by Vernon E. Beall at Smashwords.com

Copyright 2018 Vernon E. Beall

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

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Table of Contents

Prologue

The Quest 2

About the author

Other books by this author

PROLOGUE

Continued from book one––

The Quest

Josh Cleveland continues his quest to claim land granted by Lord Farquar in the Ohio wilderness, accompanied with his friend Baker and Red Hawk, son of an Algonquin chief. Josh’s father-in-law, John Farnsworth, adds volunteer workers to join the expedition to help build a home for his daughter and son-in law.

Women on the wagon train nurse an Indian boy back to health found near death on a riverbank. When Josh’s group come upon a strange Shawnee village a warrior rushes to claim the boy as his child. A delicate peace is established. Before leaving the village, Josh surprises the group—and Anne, when he hugs Little Fawn, a 300-pound woman—and village chief, Chief Little Fawn’s people not only help in future work, but also join in defense of their white friends when a Souix war party attacks the group.

Josh learns his dream of land carries a high price. He also learns the value of loyalty of true friends. With help of friends a new nation—that started with the dream of Josh Cleveland—was given birth. Relax and enjoy!

Vernon

The Quest 2

by

Vernon E. Beall

John Farnsworth sat in his favorite chair reading the Williamsburg Gazette with alarm. He read of English traders slain by plundering Indians and French who had infiltrated into the Ohio Valley. The article told of the few survivors who escaped with only clothes they wore. Gruesome details sent cold chills over him. He burned the paper in the fireplace to insure Claudette would not read of the holocaust. When he returned to his work in the fields, his mind was deeply troubled.

Brisk fall winds scattered multi-colored leaves across the lawn when a carriage bringing Anne and Josh home drove up the lane returning from their honeymoon. They could not see anyone after crossing the bridge.

Josh asked, I wonder where everyone could be.

Probably out in the fields. Daddy has started cutting corn if I know him!

Servants ran to greet them as the team was hitched to a railing, then carried luggage upstairs. Red Hawk was not in sight. Her mother and Wilda greeted them with hugs and tears. After the greeting Josh asked about the absence of Red Hawk.

Claudette said, He is out with William. He goes to the shop early every day and comes in just in time for dinner. He has not mentioned it, but we have all seen how he has missed you!

Dinner that evening was a time of excitement, with many questions for the Cleveland’s. Later Anne and her mother secluded themselves for an intimate discussion. Josh, Red Hawk, and his father-in-law retired to the sitting room where John lighted a worn briar pipe.

Exhaling smoke he said in a contented way, It's my own tobacco! Cure it myself from a recipe compliments of a Dutch sea captain.

It has a pleasant aroma, Josh agreed.

You do not smoke?

No, Sir.

Red Hawk listened while the two men talked about the trip. John cleared his throat to say, I suppose you have heard even on a honeymoon—French and Indians have invaded the Ohio lands?

We heard it at an inn.

Well! You don't seem overly bothered! The stories in the paper were horrible!

Farnsworth saw he was not going to get a response and added, Well, perhaps by the time you leave it will be over.

I hope so.

Red Hawk entered the conversation. I am making a table and chairs for your new home. William helps me every day.

Josh smiled. It will be better than what Baker and I had back at the fort.

John said, We started harvesting corn the first of the week. It looks to be a good crop!

I'll help you tomorrow. I'm anxious to get back to work!

We can use all the hands we can get this time of year. When snow comes, I think you might like to work making some of the things you will need to take.

Yes, Sir. I have many items on my list and Anne keeps adding more!

Josh observed the casual way John had mentioned his making a new home. He had heard about the Indian raids along the Ohio and was concerned about Anne going on his first trip, but he had promised and he would not break his word. He knew a single rifle against a hoard of Indians would be futile. Farnsworth noted his silence.

Josh, you are still worried about taking Anne, aren't you?

All the time—but I gave my word to her.

John knocked the pipe bowl on his hand and dumped the cold ashes into a metal tray. What I am about to offer has been given careful thought! I am sending some of my men with you when the time comes! He raised his hand, as Josh was about to speak. No, I insist! Even if you do not encounter local hostile Indians, they can help clear land and get a cabin started. There will have to be crops and vegetables planted. There won't be any shops to buy those things!

We can manage.

Damn! The men I send will be able to handle a rifle! I taught them myself and we have protected this farm many times!

I have to consider their feelings! It will be more than chasing off horse thieves!

Don't you think they know that? I have talked with a few men and each one has agreed. I will pay their salary while they are away. You can have them all summer. Longer if you need them!

What if you have more raids here at Great Oaks? You'll need every rifle you have!

The militia is patrolling regularly now. I think you boys gave those savages a pretty strong message!

Josh said, I plan on asking Baker to come along.

I'm sorry he didn't make it to the wedding! He must be a right salty character!Both Josh and Red Hawk laughed. Josh said, He is one of a kind! Still, in a fight, he is worth a dozen men!

John let the matter drop for the time and turned to less emotional discussion as he said, Red Hawk's mother was right pleased with her gift! I gave them a wagon to haul it home. Besides, it would be easier riding for the women.

Red Hawk added, Plus the horses you gave my father and his braves! One day you will receive a gift. The wagon was full of your gifts!

John made light of the deed. "What Claudette and I did was a small thing compared to what

their son did for us!" His tone still carried genuine gratitude.

Red Hawk shocked both men when he said, I must soon return to help my people and prepare for the time when snow lays deep on the land.

I thought you would spend the winter with us! Farnsworth protested.

I have used your kindness too long. I still have duty to my people.

Josh sat remembering the harsh conditions as winter immobilized the mountains with frigid winds and deep snows. He wanted to beg him to stay, but he respected the decision he knew had been carefully made.

When will you leave? Josh asked.

In two days. Already the wind has cooled and there is much to be done.

John said, I will give you corn and wheat to take to your people. What else would you like?

Nothing. I thank you for my village. I have learned to like the food of the white man.

Josh laughed to ease his own feeling of loss and said, John, throw in a ham! He likes that!

Of course! But it is not going to be the same without you, Red Hawk! Will you be content going back to your tribe?

Farnsworth hit a sensitive chord in the young man who was slow to answer. There is much I like about the white man's way. Indian customs are also worthy. Both can learn much from the other.

John spoke with difficulty. You and Josh have saved me from loss twice! You are welcome to stay as long as you like or return as soon as you want! Our home is always open to you!

The sincerity of his words touched him. I came with my friend as a stranger and you made me welcome. My tribe will never raise the war ax against your people again.

Josh wished at that moment that Governor Dinwiddie could be present.

Red Hawk added, Some of our braves followed the false words of Watuma who filled our village with poison! I will rid my people of his venom, this I promise! Our warriors can hear only one chief and they obey or are asked to leave. No war will come to Fort Cumberland!

Why do the Indians side with the French? John asked.

French have not yet fenced their land and chased game from the hills. I have seen the lust of white men—French and English! That is both his power and his weakness! One day the red men must stand as a wall of stone against all white men, or they will be ground to dust!

John looked nervously towards Josh. I hope that never comes! Of course you know the French want land just as much as we do!

This I believe and have told my father the same. You and Josh speak truth and do not hate our people. Charles still thinks it is a game! There is no glory or final victory in war!

His words hit John Farnsworth hard. The room was silent before he said, Yes, Charles has an arrogant streak, yet in his defense, he has never been given any responsibilities. He has spent most every summer here. He is like a son to us. I truly worry about him going off with the army.

They saw the sadness in his eyes. Red Hawk offered consolation as he said; He will learn what he needs to know. I will try to watch over him whenever I can.

At least he is an excellent marksman, Josh said with conviction.

John did not accept all they offered. Perhaps not good enough! You beat him hands down and I saw the two of you go after those Hurons!

Josh and Red Hawk exchanged glances and Josh laughed.

John, Charles learned quite a lot after that! He can make a good officer under Richard Henry.

Hummm. Yes, Major Henry impressed me as quite capable! His family lives in the eastern section of our colony. And he was with Braddock?

Sure was! Has the scars to prove it!

Well, I truly hope your feelings prove well founded!

Anne entered the room and sat beside Josh. Speaking of feelings, we began to think you had left us!

What were you doing? her father asked.

Mother, Wilda, and I talked. You don't need to ask what about!

The next morning Josh and his father-in-law rode to a field where corn was being cut and stacked in sheaves like miniature tents. The upper portion of the field looked like an instant camp of Indian teepees. The farm manager rode to them.

Good morning, Mister Williams. Everything set for today?

Yes, Sir. We should finish this field tomorrow. Want us to start the field next to the meadow?

I think we can let that one go for a while, Mister Williams. Provides food for the animals and keeps them from wanting to wander off.

Yes, Sir.

Williams rode towards where workers were cutting stalks with long knives.

Good man, John said. Been with me ten years.

Seems to keep things moving. Josh said. What can I do?

Oh, just stay close to me for a few days to see how we do things. Then you might over-see hauling corn to the barn.

Yes, Sir. I want to help.

Josh felt wind stiffen his face when they changed direction. Leaves twisted on stems while others were whisked southward towards the river. Winter showed signs of arriving early.

At noon they came into the rear of the house and Anne and her mother appeared smiling, as if they shared a mutual secret.

You two looked like the cat that swallowed the bird! John said.

Come into the sitting room, his wife invited.

We haven't washed!

This will only take a minute, John!

When the four came into the room Red Hawk and William were waiting. Sitting in the center of the room was a maple rocking chair.

This for me? Seeing their smiles John hurried to try it out. So this is what you two have been doing out in those shops!

A hawk was carved delicately in the headboard, its wings spread in flight.

Well now! This is very nice! Who did this?

William smiled. He did! He is quite an expert at carving! He said a chief looks over his people like a hawk!

I see! Such detail! I certainly thank you both! He shook hands with both men, and then stood admiring the chair.

Claudette came and pressed his hand. When they looked at each other, only those who had shared intimate love and respect for each other could understand. Anne pressed Josh's hand at that moment of warmth and understanding.

A gusty north wind teased the loose straps on Red Hawk's horse the next morning as he prepared to leave. They all stood watching, dreading the time when they would say goodbye. Anne and Claudette were crying, while Wilda stood fighting moist eyes.

Josh inspected the lines on the three packhorses, mostly to keep busy. A large mare pranced as Red Hawk untied her reins from the hitching rail, as if she was impatient to begin the long journey. Red Hawk jumped on her back and only then faced each one as his eyes moved from one to another.

Now you be careful! John called out. Keep to the Nemacolin Trail but watch for Hurons!

Red Hawk nodded.

Let us know you arrived home safely! Claudette ordered.

He flashed a rare, but full smile. I will not be harmed. Josh, will you send word before you leave for the land of my mother?

Josh reached up his hand. I might even come and visit you before that time! I want to see Baker and I suspect he will be at your village! Tell him not to waste all his power!

Red Hawk smiled. I will tell him. Hands lifted in farewell.

They watched the four horses and rider until all were a blur against a western ridge.

Josh supervised wagons moving from the field all week, often driving a rig to help keep his mind occupied. He wished he could have gone part way with Red Hawk, but he knew his friend would be safe except from an attack by a large force. Josh feared for his safety more from white men than Hurons. Slowly the corncribs were filled and the barn was already beginning to fill.

Monday morning Josh drove a wagon with extra high sides loaded with corn while two boys rode on top. Anne met him when he stopped at the barn and he saw she was upset.

Daddy just returned from town with a newspaper! There was a battle near Bedford and the Provincial Army won a victory!

Any mention of Charles? he asked jumping down beside her.

No, but Major Henry was mentioned as the commanding officer!

Josh saw fear in her face and offered words to console her.

Maybe Charles wasn't even present! Being new he could have been assigned duty at the fort or rear guard!

Don't try to appease me! I know Charles too well! He would want to be in the middle of it! He feels he has to prove himself! Cautiously she added, Our forces suffered casualties!

Josh could not find words so they both stood facing each other.

Daddy doesn't want mother to know. She'd just worry herself sick! That's why I wanted you to hear it away from the house.

This has you upset too! Can you wait until I unload this and I will come to the house? Maybe we can think of something to do.

I'm all right! We might hear something in a day or two.

She went back towards the house while Josh shoveled the load onto a growing mound of yellow ears of corn. His shirt and pants were wet with perspiration but he did not slow his pace until the wagon was empty.

You boys go home and eat lunch. We'll meet back here in an hour.

The youths ran in the direction of a two-story frame tenant house surrounded by a grove of tall trees.

Anne met him as he entered the rear door and ushered him into the sitting room.

I was thinking we could ride to the Wentworth’s Saturday. They must be worried out of their mind!

I think we should— Damn this war!

I know you were not in favor of his going, but he can be strong-willed at times!

Josh rubbed sweat from his face and looked tired. Red Hawk told him ways to avoid an ambush, and with his ability to shoot, I'd say he will have better than an even chance.

You make me feel better...of course you are right. You look exhausted! Wash and we'll eat. Would you like a cold drink first?

I could use one. Then I'll wash.

The newspaper was destroyed and no mention of the battle was made in the house. Work continued in the fields from early dawn until dark, as every storage shed was filled. The barn was full at the end of the week.

Josh saw William only once during the busy week and the man viewed him with a forlorn look, before resuming his work. Josh wondered if Red Hawk had reached the safety of the fort.

Claudette saw Anne through the open door of the bedroom Friday evening. She entered and asked, Are you packing?

Anne forced a smile. Josh and I are going to visit Aunt Sarah and Uncle Charles for the weekend. We'll be back Sunday evening.

But you have only been home a few weeks! she said feeling hurt. I had planned a small surprise party for you and Josh.

Let's have it this evening! Anne suggested, hoping to avoid a scene.

Claudette thought a moment and said, Yes, we could at that! Pointing to the light bag Anne had packed she added, You take some heavier clothes in case the weather turns bad!

Anne kissed her mother's cheek. I will. It's only twenty miles! Please stop worrying!

Twenty-five! And I do worry! Ever since those savages stole you away from us! Her last words broke with emotion.

Anne put her arms around her. Mother, if it distresses you, we won't go. You know Josh can handle any trouble.

Claudette dabbed her eyes with a lace handkerchief. I'm being foolish again. I know Josh can take care of you, and he has been such a help to John. Works just like he was our son!

Anne laughed. Promise you won't tell him differently! He thinks he is!

Her mother smiled as she pressed her hand. Anne delayed further packing until her mother left the room.

After the evening meal the four sat at the table chatting. A rap sounded on the door and Wilda went to answer.

William and Alma Mae! Come in! John called greeting them.

John said, I asked them to come by if he had no other plans. I think we could all use some company!

Goodness yes! Have you eaten?

William nodded.

Then we can adjourn to the sitting room.

When they were all comfortable John said, Well, William, you lost your apprentice! opening the conversation.

I surely miss him! Have you heard if he got home safe?

Not yet, Josh responded, but he can take care of himself. What did you two do out in your shop?

William spoke without social restraint. He wanted to know everything! Asked questions that had me scratching my head at times! He could become a true craftsman with a little time---never saw a man pick it up so fast!

We all miss him, Claudette said. We dearly love him---Indian or not!

John smiled remembering how he had pounced on Charles and scared the tar out of him. He wondered if his wife would think differently if she had seen that. Josh saw John's smile and when their eyes met, John raised his hand quickly over his head as if he was holding a tomahawk. Both men smiled.

John smoked a pipe as he relaxed in his rocking chair, his eyes wandering leisurely from face to face, following the talking. When a lull came, John said with satisfaction, Well, we are more than half finished the corn and it is a bountiful yield! Next week we will have to begin filling the storage sheds near the mill!

William asked, When you going to open the mill?

It might be smart to check it next week! Glad you mentioned it!

Josh said, I worked a little at a mill. We ground wheat for flour.

We do that, John said, and some other grains. We grind for neighbors also.

Turning directly to Josh he said, I almost forgot you are a blacksmith! I have a gear that needs mending. I'd like if you would look at it.

We'll check it first thing Monday.

His father-in-law knew of their plans to leave as he replied, That will be fine! We won't start grinding for a few weeks. There could be other jobs for you also.

We have to pay our keep one way or another, Josh said.

Claudette spoke sharply, Josh! You are one of the family! You don't have to do anything you don't want to!

Josh did not intend to offend either one. Yes I do. Maybe you have a few things that need fixing, Mother.

Claudette broke into a smile hearing him call her that. Well, if you insist, we do have a door with a broken hinge. John has promised to fix it but never has the time.

Broken hinges are my specialty! Josh said winking at the others.

William said, I recall we missed one of the broken chairs in the dining room. I'll take that tonight and fix it in the shop.

Thank you, William. I appreciate your concern, John offered. Looking up he saw Wilda carrying in a tray of tea and cake. Now let us enjoy some of the goodies these women have been baking all afternoon!

Josh saw Anne smiling at him. He looked around at the luxury of the home, wondering if she would be as content in a log cabin in the wilderness.

Early the next morning Anne and Josh drove down the lane in a black spring buggy pulled by a pair of high-stepping black horses. It was a cloudless morning and a gentle breeze fanned their face. The wooden floor of the bridge