The Jammed Judges by D.S. Lang

Author:D.S. Lang [D.S. Lang]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: D.S. Lang
Published: 2024-03-29T00:00:00+00:00

The community church, a small white frame building with a modest bell tower, sat amongst a woods on the northern edge of Michaw. As Doro and Aggie approached, they were greeted by Pastor Winters, a lean man of middling height and middle years. “Good afternoon, young ladies. I’m glad you could join us.” His expression grew solemn. “Do you have news about our local lawmen? We said a prayer for them at services. I spoke briefly with Wade’s mother, who told me the terrible news.”

His wife, a petite brunette, joined them. “Of course, everyone wondered about Officer Mallow’s collapse. Some feared another influenza outbreak, but Mrs. Lammers eased minds on that score.” One hand flew to her mouth. “Poisoning is dreadful, too. I just meant it wouldn’t spread through town like the flu did.”

“That’s definitely a cause for relief,” Aggie said. “Ev and Wade are slightly better, but complete healing will take time. Probably a few days.”

“As soon as Doc gives me the go-ahead, I’ll visit with them,” the minister said.

“I’m sure they’d appreciate that,” Doro said.

Mrs. Winters glanced from Doro to Aggie and back. “Help yourselves to the food. As always, there’s more than enough to go around.”

“Thank you,” Aggie replied. “We both planned to bring a dish, but Ev and Wade falling ill took precedence.”

“It’s probably just as well.” As soon as the words were out, the woman clapped a hand over her mouth. “I’m sorry. It’s only that…” Her voice trailed off.

Aggie, who had gone beet red, stood speechless. After several uncomfortable moments of silence, Doro stepped into the breach. “I hope a few malicious gossips aren’t causing trouble, especially at a church potluck.”

The minister’s wife blushed as deeply as Aggie. “I’ve done my best to quell that sort of talk.”

“Thank you,” Aggie murmured.

Doro did not echo the gratitude because, although Mrs. Winters was kind, she was also quiet and circumspect. While she would not repeat gossip, she wasn’t apt to confront it, despite her assertion.

Pastor Winters shifted from one foot to the other. “We need to mingle. Please let Ev and Wade know they’re in our prayers.” With that, he ushered his wife away.

“Let’s get something to eat,” Doro suggested. “Then, we’ll find a place to sit and observe.”

“All right.”

The two friends crossed the side yard to where several long tables groaned with an array of dishes. “I know we promised to be careful, but everything looks delicious, and I’m starving,” Aggie said.

“I doubt if anyone poisoned food for the potluck. All the same, I’m sticking with dishes I recognize. Mrs. Jones probably made the baked beans and brought ham. Mrs. Winters is famous for her cornbread, and Mrs. Willoughby always brings deviled eggs. Plus, I recognize their plates, so we’re safe with those items.”

“Good to know,” Aggie replied before helping herself. After selecting some items, they headed to where others were eating.

Mrs. Jones was the first to greet them. “Girls, join us over here.”

Because the older woman was sitting at a picnic table with two other committeewomen, both of whom were pleasant, Doro accepted the offer.

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