called Beth a redskin. So your observation is obviously correct; she is an American Indian. I gathered from the conversation, the only reason he let them live up there was because children were involved, and Jeb couldn't get a job."
"How did you approach the subject to get so much information?"
"I told him I just wanted to inform him someone was living on the land. He immediately acknowledged it, and gave me those details. Also he told me to tell Jeb to get his lazy butt in gear and get water piped into the house."
"Doesn't sound like he's willing to put any money into making the place more livable."
"From what I saw, he might not have any. Or he's hoarding it for a rainy day. Some of these eccentrics hide their money and die worth millions."
"And to think I almost suggested going with you. Certainly glad I didn't."
"I doubt you could have handled it. I almost keeled over. Probably would have had to carry you out."
"It sure doesn't sound like there's much love between him and his son."
"I don't think so. He didn't appear very proud of him. The first thing he wanted to know was if they were causing any trouble."
Jennifer reached over and patted Hawkman's arm. “Well, my dear, it sounds like you had quite an adventure."
He shuddered. “One I hope not to duplicate in the near future. I'll meet the old fellow somewhere before I ever enter his abode again.” Pulling a tissue from the box, he blew his nose. “I hope this horrible odor leaves me soon."
"It may take a day or two."
"That long?” he asked, in horror.
She laughed, then frowned. “You didn't tell me why Jeb was in prison."
"Vehicular manslaughter. Killed a man while driving under the influence. Sentenced to five years, but got out in three due to good behavior."
"No wonder he can't get a job. No one wants to hire a felon. So how's he getting money? Beth said he always seems have cash for ammunition. Maybe he does get some from his dad."
"My question is, how would he get to Medford? Horseback?"
"Maybe his dad has a vehicle, and comes up here?"
"I had the impression Jacob hasn't seen his son or family since they moved in. I could be all wet. I also wonder if Mr. Hutchinson drives. The garage door was closed, so I have no idea if he has a car or not."
"The mystery deepens,” Jennifer said. She rose from the computer and showed him an ad in the phone directory. “I'm going to Yreka tomorrow. I found a place closer that carries used baby items. I'll give them a call in the morning and see what they have."
"So you're really serious about helping Beth, regardless of the danger?"
"Yes."
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CHAPTER TWELVE
After Hawkman left for work, Jennifer prepared to go to Yreka. She felt a little uneasy about what she planned on doing, but decided Beth and Marcy were worth it. Climbing into her Ford Escape, she headed for town. The trip only took thirty minutes and she knew the small shop's location. She pulled into a parking place in front.
Since she hadn't shopped for baby items for a long time, the merchandise fascinated her. The last baby shower she'd attended occurred two or three years ago. Finding a clerk, she inquired where they displayed the used equipment. The woman led her to the back of the store and pointed out several items, explaining they were on consignment. Jennifer's gaze immediately stopped on a small crib which would fit in the cabin without taking up much room. She examined it thoroughly and found it to be in excellent condition, and the price reasonable. Her attention then went to a couple of highchairs, and she finally decided on the sturdy oak with the lift up tray. Once she loaded them into the SUV, plus some sheets for the infant bed, she stopped at the grocery store, bought some things for Beth and herself, then headed home.
Feeling good about the purchases, she decided to take them to the cabin that afternoon. When she arrived home, she put the perishables away, then went to the bedroom. Removing the fanny
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