Escape on the National Road by Virginia L. Gibson

Author:Virginia L. Gibson
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Publish on Demand Global LLC

Chapter Twelve

June 1865

“I’ve got exciting news!” I told Jim the next morning.

“Well, pray tell, what is it?” he asked.

“I’ve been wracking my brain trying to come up with an idea to earn some money,” I began. “And it’s been staring me in the face this whole time. Those turkeys, remember?”

“Yeah…” Jim’s voice trailed off. He looked skeptical.

“Remember what Mr. O’Neal said about taking produce to market, and if we were bold, to go to New Orleans and trade directly with the European merchants?” I continued.

“Hold on, Will,” Jim stopped me. “Are you dreaming or what? How on earth do you think you can do that? We’ve only arrived in Illinois, and you’re already coming up with this wild scheme?”

Blazes. Was I going to have an argument with Jim? I got up and walked outside to think. Mostly, it was to give each other some space. Jim followed me.

“Hey, Will, I didn’t mean to upset you,” he apologized.

“Well, you did,” I blurted. “I had my fill of Ma arguing with Levi, and Levi bossing me around. I thought starting up with you would be different. I mean, it’s easy for you to make plans. You’ve made your mark, and served your country, and have something to show for it. What have I accomplished?”

“I’d say quite a bit. You’ve come at a tender age from Ohio; you helped two women arrive safely in Illinois. You’ve shown an industrious side that would make Ma and Pa proud,” Jim said softly.

“Can’t you dream with me? The turkeys are here; they’re plentiful and free. Women in Columbus and Indianapolis were wearing fancy turkey feather outfits and hats. I could try it once. If it isn’t profitable, well, nothing ventured, nothing gained,” I argued.

“Remember our promise to Uncle Luke,” Jim said.

“I could see what he thinks. If it sounds farfetched, then I’ll reconsider,” I offered.

At our midday meal, I told Uncle Luke my idea. Jim remained silent as I spoke.

“What do you think, sir?” I asked. I prayed that he would be okay with the idea.

Before he could answer, Olivia butted in. “Why, you cruel, heartless creature! You’d take those poor innocent birds and sell them to make money?” she cried.

I wasn’t going to let her have the last word, not this time. “I’ll bet if those feathers were on one of your fancy outfits, you wouldn’t complain!” I shot back.

“Children, children, please! May we keep a civil tongue?” Luella begged.

With a twinkle in his eye, Uncle Luke spoke. “Will, you sound like how I was forty years ago. You’re an adventurer and a risk-taker; that takes courage. When I came out to Illinois, others back home ridiculed and criticized me,” he said. “I think your idea has considerable merit.”

I could have hugged him on the spot.

He began questioning me about my plan. “How are you going to tame them?” he asked.

“Pa said if you feed an animal regularly and give it attention, it will serve you well,” I replied with a smile.

“Those turkeys are a wily bird,” he warned.

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