The Texan's Reward Read Online Free PDF Page A

towns across Texas.

    Before Jacob could think of anything else to talk to Harrison about, the sheriff walked through the batwing
    doors. Parker Smith was a skinny fellow, years past his prime, but still lethal with a Colt. Jacob liked him and
    knew him as an honest lawman who always tried to do his best. But Parker was crippling with age, starting to
    slip. He no longer rode out to the ranches to check on rustling. The rangers were aware of his shortcomings and
    tried to cover if they knew trouble might be riding his direction.

    Sheriff Parker walked up to their table, and Jacob stood, his hand already outstretched.

    “Sheriff, good to see you again,” Jacob greeted him warmly.

    The old man smiled. “About time you got to town, Dalton. I was worried that you might not be here in time to
    straighten Nell out this time.”

    “I’m not sure I can,” he answered honestly. “You’d think that wheelchair would slow her down and keep her out
    of trouble. I thought I told you to keep an eye on her.”

    “It’s a full-time job, son, and I’m not as fast as I used to be. That’s why I cal ed you for backup.”

    Randolph Harrison stood slowly and faced the sheriff. The two lawmen turned, looking as if they’d forgotten him
    sitting at the table.

    Jacob made the introductions, leaving out how he and Rand had met.

    After Harrison and the sheriff shook hands, Jacob suggested Parker join them. As the men took their seats, the
    old man’s wise eyes caught Jacob’s for a second, then darted to Harrison and back.

    Jacob read the message plainly. They’d both noticed the stranger’s alarm. Randolph Harrison was edgy, near
    panic. He’d wiped his hands on his legs before taking Parker’s hand. He kept his eyes low, never rising past the
    star on Parker’s vest. He mumbled his name almost as if he hoped the old man wouldn’t catch it. Both Jacob and
    the sheriff had learned from experience that men nervous around a badge usual y had a reason to be.

    “Welcome to Clarendon, Mr. Harrison,” Parker said casually. “Where do you hail from?”

    “Back East,” Rand answered without looking at either man.

    “Nice country back East,” Parker answered. “I know a lot of folks who come from the same place.”

    Jacob smiled, knowing in this part of the county it would be impolite to pry into a man’s past. Half the folks
    settling Texas were running from something. Debts, family, the law.

    But the seasoned sheriff was like an expert fisherman. It might take him some time, but he’d eventual y reel in
    the man’s secret. One of the reasons he kept a lid on trouble in town was his ability to spot it riding in.

    Jacob stood, knowing Harrison might say more without an audience. “I’m heading over to the barbershop to see
    if baths are stil a quarter.” He scratched his beard. “I might even get a shave.” Jacob looked at Number Twelve.
    “I’ll meet you here in a few hours, and we’ll head to Nell’s for dinner. If she won’t talk to me without you
    around, then you’re coming with me.”

    Harrison didn’t comment. He’d pul ed a notebook from his vest pocket and seemed intent on writing something
    down.

    Smith jerked as if their conversation had just registered. “Nell’s having company for dinner?” He stood and
    nodded toward Rand. “I’l visit with you later, Mr. Harrison. I need to get over to Nell’s and talk myself into an
    invitation. If she’s having company, Marla’s probably cooking something special, and she’ll need to know to fix
    for one more.” He grinned. “That cook is an angel; she always sends a plate of homemade rolls home with me
    for breakfast.”

    The sheriff frowned. “I almost forgot I’ve got official business with her today. Got a telegram from Sheriff Riley
    over in Cedar Point. Claims there’s a man on his way here who says she promised to marry him in writing.”

    Jacob shook his head slowly.

    “My feeling exactly. Our Nel might want a husband fast,