The Family Feud

Part 3

by Torie

Disclaimer: The characters and situations of the TV program "Big Valley" are the creations of Four Star/Republic Pictures and have been used without permission. No copyright infringement is intended by the author. The ideas expressed in this story are copyrighted to the author.

Summary: When Jarrod marries Maria Montero a quarrel ensues between the family and Maria’s father, one that Jarrod and Maria’s daughter could end

Edna Stallingforth was just entering into town when Maria went to the general store to pick up Katie's birthday gift.

Edna remembered Jarrod's promise that Katie could come back to Philadelphia that summer, but Katie had written her telling her that she'd rather stay in Stockton.

Edna turned up her nose at the primitive town. This place was not like her mansion in Philadelphia. She didn't know why Katie would pick it over Philadelphia.

Edna's bright red hair shone like a beacon in the street. "I'm looking for the home of Jarrod Barkley, please," Edna said to a street vendor.

"Counselor Barkley's not here in town today. I've been told his oldest daughter's having a birthday today, so the Barkley's having a family party," the man said.

"That's why I'm here," Edna said.

"Counselor Barkley's wife is over there at the store. I think she's buying a gift for the girl," the man said.

Edna left the man and went into the store. "Mrs. Barkley?" Edna asked.

"Sí?" Maria said, turning. When she turned and saw Edna her face dropped.

"Señora Stallingforth, what are you doing here?" Maria asked.

"I came to see Abigail. How is she adjusting?" Edna asked.

"She is adjusting just fine. But I don't think you should come to the house. She is just starting to respect Jarrod and myself and your presence might hurt her and she could lapse back into her old habits," Maria said.

"I don't think giving her this box of stationary is going to make her disrespect you," Edna said, holding up a box.

"Very well. You may come. But don not call her Abigail in front of us. She's refused to go by that name," Maria said.

"All right, Mrs. Barkley," Edna said. She shook hands with Maria and left the store to dress in her finest dress for Katie's birthday.

* * * * * * * *

Katie rode back to the ranch around 1:30. The sun was incredibly hot. Her dark face was drenched in sweat and reddened by the heat of the day.

Katie rode into the barn and unsaddled her horse. Since she had arrived she learned how to unsaddle a horse and do all the chores around the Barkley ranch. It was a more carefree existence than in Philadelphia or Connecticut, If her mother could see her blistered hands and red face; she'd have a fit.

Katie opened the back door to the kitchen. Silas Whiting was putting the finishing touches on her birthday cake.

"Hello Silas," Katie said.

Silas jumped in alarm at the sound of the voice. ""Mercy sakes‘, Miss Katie! Does you have to scare ol Silas now?" Silas asked.

"I'm sorry, Silas. Is Papa in the parlor?" Katie asked.

"Yes, Miss Katie," Silas said.

"Thank you, Silas," Katie said, politely.

Since she had come back to the Barkley ranch she enjoyed talking to Silas. Silas was very old, but he enjoyed serving the Barkley family and Heath had once told her that Silas had no desire to ever leave.

She walked out of the kitchen and went to the parlor. Her father's masculine voice could be heard from the hallway. Her father's voice was a comforting sound. His voice was pleasant and rarely ever raised in anger.

The only time it ever did was when she heard the argument between Her grandfather and Jarrod a few days earlier.

It appeared that when Don Alfredo visited the ranch he didn't want to see Heath or his family in the same room with him or his grandchildren.

In Katie's opinion She thought her grandfather was being silly, but he wouldn't listen to her. He didn't even listen to Maria.

Katie entered the room and stopped in shock. "Mother?" Katie said, surprised.

"Well, you appear surprised to see me, Abigail," Edna said.

"I am surprised, Mother. I didn't think you'd come," Katie said.

Edna looked at her daughter's red face and clothing. "What have these people done to you, Abigail?" Edna asked in consternation.

"Pardon?" Katie asked.

"You look like a peasant and your face is a ghastly red color," Edna said.

"I've been out in the sun riding a horse, Mother. That's what people out west do. And I happen to like my peasant garb. Mama had it made for me in Mexico," Katie said.

"Well, you look very vulgar with those poor girl clothes and red face. Also go wash your face and brush your hair. And when you come back in here, stand up straight," Edna said.

Katie looked at her father with a helpless glance. When Edna Stallingforth went into one of her tirades about etiquette and clothing, nothing could stop her.

"Mrs. Stallingforth, who's daughter is she?" Jarrod asked.

"Why she's yours, but certainly, she doesn't come to the dinner table looking like this?" Edna asked.

"She has a few times," Jarrod said.

"Mother, I even wear boy's clothes," Katie said, knowing that she was courting the ragged edge of disaster with this statement.

Edna looked more shocked. “What happened to those beautiful clothes you had? Don't tell me that you wear pants all the time?" Edna asked.

"Yes Mother. Papa, when is Grandfather going to be here?" Katie asked Jarrod.

"In a few minutes. I suggest you do go upstairs and get ready for your party," Jarrod said. He walked over to her and gave her a brief hug.

"Yes Papa," Katie said. Jarrod kissed her forehead gently and watched her go up the stairs. While Katie walked to her room, it was then that she decided that she loved her father. He was being totally understanding.

Katie half-wished that her father would tell Edna to go away. She was not making this a very pleasant birthday.

* * * * * * * *

Katie came down the stairs with clean clothes on and her hair brushed. The only objection Edna could have was that they were a pair of pants, shirt, and vest.

Don Alfredo was coming into the house as she was coming downstairs. "Buenos tardes, Grandfather," Katie said.

"Buenos tardes, mi hija," Don Alfredo said, kissing her left cheek and then her right.

"Thank you for coming. You do know that Uncle Heath and Aunt Dora will be there with their children don't you?" Katie asked.

"I know, Katalina. I shall endure Heath for today. It is your day and I hate to make you sad on your day," Don Alfredo said.

"Gracias Grandfather. My adopted mother has already said some bad things already today," Katie said.

"She's here?" Don Alfredo asked.

"Sí. She made fun of my appearance in front of Papa and Mama," Katie said.

Don Alfredo and Katie walked down the hallway to the dining room were everyone was present.

"Hello, Don Alfredo. Welcome to our ranch," Victoria said, in her kind, hospitable manner.

"Hola, Señora Barkley," Don Alfredo said.

Edna Stallingforth's eyes widened in shock at the Mexican. "Abigail, who's this?" Edna said, with disdain.

"Mother, this is my grandfather on my mother's side," Katie said, her pretty little face taking on a deep frown.

Jarrod and Maria both smiled inwardly. After all these years she still looked a little bit like Don Alfredo when she frowned.

"What's he doing here?" Edna asked.

"Mother, he's here for my birthday. Papa invited him to come over last April when I wouldn't celebrate it on the day I should have," Katie said.

"Counselor Barkley, I thought you said that your wife's family and your family don't get along to well?" Edna asked.

"Mother, please let's not fight today. We have enough problems with people not accepting Uncle Heath," Katie mumbled the last part of that comment.

"Don't mumble it's not ladylike," Edna said.

Jarrod saw his daughter's face flush with shame at the reprimand. "Mrs. Stallingforth, I would suggest you keep your criticism to yourself. Today's Katie's birthday and your not making it a very happy one with your criticism," Jarrod said.

Edna closed her mouth and Katie flashed her father a grateful look. "Thank you, Papa," Katie mouthed at him.

Jarrod smiled at her and pulled out a chair next to him. Katalina Maria Isabel Barkley, you are the guest of honor. Would you care to be seated?" Jarrod asked, giving a courteous bow.

Katie giggled at her father's manners and took the seat he offered her. He kissed her forehead gently and then the family started to eat the dinner Victoria and Silas prepared for Katie's birthday. The food was rich, but good. Then it was time to open the presents.

Katie sat down in her place next to her father. When Katie first came back and her father insisted she sit next to him, Katie hated it. Now Katie loved sitting next to him. He was such a happy person to be around.

Jarrod was talking to Nick when Katie looked over at Edna. She did not look happy in this room. Edna had thought she was more important than the Barkleys. Her coming here must have convinced herself of it.

Don Alfredo didn't look happy either. Probably because Uncle Heath is here. But he told me that he would put up with Uncle Heath and his family because today is my day, Katie thought.

The hum of the conversation stopped when Victoria tapped on a glass with her fork.

"I would think that Katie might like to open her gifts if that is all right with the rest of you," Victoria said.

"I'm sorry, Honey. I have forgotten what it's like to be ten," Jarrod said.

"It's all right, Papa. I could have waited," Katie said quietly.

Jarrod put three gifts in front of her. "This is from your mother, Tommy, and myself" Jarrod said.

Katie opened the first package. A beautiful dress of Spanish make was in front of her. The dress had a black veil to go with it.

"Thank you, Mama," Katie said to Maria.

"I'm glad you like it. I hope it fits. You can wear it to church on Sunday," Maria said.

"Yes Mama," Katie said.

Katie opened the next gift from Jarrod. It was a beautiful brooch that opened like a locket. Katie opened the locket to find pictures of her mother and father.

"Papa, this is beautiful. I love it," Katie said, jumping up to hug her father.

"I thought you would when I picked it out at the jewelers in San Francisco," Jarrod said, wrapping his arms around her shoulders.

"Thank you," Katie said.

"You're welcome," Jarrod said, kissing her head gently.

Katie sat back down, getting ready to unwrap her brother's gift. The paper gave way to reveal a Bible.

"Tommy, thank you, but you didn't have to get me a Bible. I already have one," Katie said.

"Open it, Katie," Tommy said.

Katie opened the Bible and gasped with delight at what she saw. The entire Bible was written in Spanish!

"Tommy, thank you!" Katie said.

"Papa said that you liked being Spanish and that you would like this," Tommy said, letting his sister hug him.

"Well, Papa was right," Katie said, looking up at Jarrod.

Victoria put a large box in front of Katie. "This is from me, dear," Victoria said.

"Thank you, Grandmother," Katie said. She unwrapped the felt bows and worked at lifting the gift out of the box.

Inside was a beautiful red silk dress. It was the most beautiful dress Katie had ever seen. It was edged with lace at the throat, sleeves, and at the hem of the long skirt. The dress also had a bonnet to match. The brim also had lace edging it.

Edna looked at the dress, disdainfully. "I thought you liked brown," Edna said.

"I do Mother, but Grandmother and Mama have said that I'd look good in blue or red too. I also do get tired of wearing brown every now and then," Katie said.

"Katie, why don't you go upstairs and try it on?" Jarrod suggested.

"Okay Papa," Katie said.

Katie ran up the stairs to her room and put the dress on quickly. The dress fit perfectly. Katie turned around once. She went back downstairs to the dining room. Oohs and ahhs greeted

The dress. "Does it fit?" Victoria asked.

"Yes Ma'am. It fits perfectly," Katie said.

Katie sat back down in her chair after giving Victoria a hug. Nick put the next gift in front of her.

Katie opened it eagerly. Inside the box were some saddle soap, a horse blanket, and some currycombs.

"I thought you might need these if you wanted to learn how to take care of your horse," Nick said gruffly.

After all these months of living on the Barkley ranch Katie still didn't know if she liked Uncle Nick. He was loud and nothing like her father. It was still hard to believe they were brothers, but Katie tried to like Uncle Nick.

"Thank you, Uncle Nick. You'd have to show me how to use the currycombs and the soap," Katie said.

Edna looked at the gifts as if they might be dirt. "What kind of gifts are those?" Edna asked, poking at one with her dainty finger.

"Mother, these are items for my horse," Katie said testily. Her mother's whining and complaining was starting to grate on her nerves.

Heath, trying to be the peacemaker, laid the next box in front of her. "This is from me, Aunt Dora, the twins, and Sarah," Heath said.

"Thank you, Uncle Heath," Katie unwrapped the tissue paper. Inside were four books. Katie looked at the titles of them. One was on the history of Ferdinand and Isabella, another was on Eleanor of Aquitaine, the third was on the history of Ireland, and the fourth was on the history of Spain.

"Thank you, Uncle Heath. You shouldn't have," Katie said.

"That's exactly what I said to the book shop owner when he told me the price," Heath joked.

Katie looked down to hide a smile. He Uncle Heath wasn't used to the money that the Barkleys had so he often cracked jokes like that.

Audra placed the next package in front of her. Katie undid the ribbons and pulled out the most beautiful doll.

"Oh Aunt Audra! She's beautiful!" Katie said. Katie didn't have the heart to tell Audra that she didn't play with dolls, but Edna had no such tact.

"Miss Barkley, Abigail hates dolls. Don't you Abigail?" Edna asked.

"Mother, it's true I don't really care for dolls like every other person. But maybe it's because you never really let me have one when I was growing up," Katie said, in a secret way of telling her mother to shut up about it.

Jarrod had seen the exchanges between his daughter and Edna and was close to telling Edna off himself when Edna placed two gifts besides Katie.

"This is from me and this was found among your father's things. I think he wanted you to have a gift for every year you are alive," Edna said.

Katie opened her mother's gift. Stationary. "Thanks, Mother. I'll now be able to write to you from boarding school when I go there in a few weeks," Katie said.

Katie then opened her father's gift. It was a small satin and silk blue box and it had a real diamond necklace in it. Katie felt herself kind of like her father's gift, but part of her said it was ridiculous. Anyway, what if I lose it? Katie thought fretfully.

Don Alfredo sat a huge teak box in front of her. "This belonged to your grandmother. I think she'd want you to have it," Don Alfredo said.

Katie opened the box. A gold crucifix, inlaid with diamonds and rubies, flashed from the box. The gift was more impressive and extravagant than her late father's gift.

"Grandfather, it's beautiful!" That was all Katie could say. She was stunned.

"It's the Katalina necklace. It goes to every girl in your grandmother's family named Katalina," Maria said.

"Well, now it goes to the Barkley family," Edna said.

Everyone turned to look at Edna. She really was making this a bad day. Maria started to regret asking her to come out for Katie's birthday, but it was too late now.

"I think now Katie would like to have her cake. Right, Honey?" Jarrod asked.

"Yes Sir," Katie said, looking down at her hands on the teak box her grandfather had brought.

Silas brought in the cake and everyone sang "Happy Birthday." Katie made her wish and blew out the candles, wishing that her family could get along.

* * * * * * * *

Jarrod was sitting in his office going over some briefs for the case he had to fight the next day. Edna was staying at the ranch and Don Alfredo had gone back to his house.

When Katie had heard that Edna was staying at the ranch it was all she could do to keep the despair out of her face and voice.

Jarrod's heart nearly broke for his little girl. He knew that she found Edna tiresome. Jarrod found the woman tiresome, but he tried to refrain from being rude and telling her she couldn't stay at the ranch.

A light tap on the door broke Jarrod's train of thoughts. "It's open," Jarrod said.

The door opened and Katie walked in. The despair he had seen was written all over her face. He wasn't wrong when he had seen it before.

"Papa, am I bothering you?" Katie asked.

"Of course not. I have a case tomorrow, but I never minded a little break from work," Jarrod said.

Katie came up to the desk. Jarrod stood up and walked with her to the couch.

"Now, Katie, you want to tell me what's bothering you?" Jarrod asked.

"How do you know anything's bothering me?" Katie asked.

"I'm your father. If I didn't know then you really are not my child," Jarrod said, his tone light.

"Papa, I wanted today to be so wonderful, but it's like Mother ruined everything," Katie said, her voice broken and splintered.

"I know, Honey. I wanted today to be perfect too. Because today my baby girl was supposed to be happy," Jarrod said.

"Papa, why did Mother belittle me in front of you? I never felt more humiliated in all my life," Katie said.

"Sweetheart, it doesn't matter what she says about you. I am your father and Maria is your mother. And to us, my girl, you are beautiful," Jarrod said, pulling his daughter into his arms and stroking her long black hair.

"Papa, I love you," Katie said, burying her face in her father's chest.

"I love you too, Katie. Do you like your gifts?" Jarrod asked.

"Yes Papa. I love the brooch you gave me. When I go to school in September I'll be able to take it with me. When I miss you I'll just open the brooch and look at your picture," Katie said.

"How'd you like to go to school here in Stockton instead of going to boarding school?" Jarrod asked.

Katie raised her head from her father's chest and looked at him with a joyful expression.

"Papa, are you serious?" Katie asked.

"Yes I am. I've talked it over with your mama and I can't take the idea of you living apart from us ever again," Jarrod said.

Katie's tears turned to happy ones. "Oh Papa, I'd love to stay!" Katie said, hugging Jarrod again. Jarrod smoothed back his daughter's soft black hair.

"Now, young lady, I better get back to work. And I believe it's almost your bedtime. So go get ready," Jarrod said, standing up.

"Yes Papa," Katie said. Jarrod kissed Katie's forehead and watched her leave the room. Now since Jarrod had made that decision about her education he felt right about it.

* * * * * * * *

Jarrod had finished his paper work and joined his family in the parlor. Edna sat next to Victoria, talking stiffly about life in Philadelphia.

The woman was unaware that Victoria had been born in Philadelphia and that was where she had met Tom Barkley.

Jarrod poured himself a glass of brandy and sat next to his wife.

"What did you say to Katalina, Jarrod? When I went to go wish her good night she was happy," Maria said quietly to her husband.

"I just told her that she would not go to boarding school this fall and that we didn't want her to go," Jarrod said.

"Mr. Barkley, what kind of schooling will the child have then?" Edna asked, breaking into the conversation.

"Maria and myself have said she will go to the school in Stockton. I just got her back. I can't bear to watch her leaving us again," Jarrod said.

"Counselor Barkley, she is ten years old," Edna started.

"I am well aware of that. But Mrs. Stallingforth, I am her father. Maria and myself make the decisions regarding her education," Jarrod said.

"I am also well aware of that, Mr. Barkley. But what about your promise to return her to Philadelphia this summer?" Edna asked.

"I made that promise because I knew how hard it would be for Katie to adjust to us! And also because that would only happen if Katie were unhappy," Jarrod said.

"Well, I happen to have a few of her letters that she sent. I'll let you read them," Edna said.

Jarrod took out a letter. The date was April 10th of that year.

Dear Mother, how are you? I'm not so good. I want to come home, but I don't think Mr. Barkley will let me. I can't blame him for not wanting me to go, but honestly, I'm not a baby! Also I find it very annoying when Mr. Barkley and Maria call themselves Mama and Papa in front of me. Mother, please come get me.

Love, Abigail

"This letter doesn't mean how Katie feels now. This was written a few weeks before she accepted us as her parents," Jarrod said.

"Counselor Barkley, you don't honestly think that children can be happy out here in the west," Edna said.

"My daughter is. She has accepted who she is. I think when she first came here she was lost and didn't know who she really was. Do you know that now she goes to mass and speaks Spanish better than the nun who's teaching her?" Jarrod said.

"Spanish? When she went with you she was learning French and Latin at the school in Connecticut," Edna said.

"Well, I've been told that if you study those languages it's not hard to learn another one like it," Jarrod said.

"Señora Stallingforth, our daughter cannot go with you back to Philadelphia. She is happy here and we think that she has become a part of this ranch and this valley. She is a Barkley even though you don't want her to be," Maria said.

Edna took a deep breath of air. "I'm going to bed now. Good night," Edna said, stiffly.

Edna went upstairs. Katie was standing on the landing, hearing every word that every one had just said.

"So what do you think, Abigail?" Edna asked.

"I don't know. I like Philadelphia, but I think I like Stockton better. It's not as big as Philadelphia," Katie said.

"What about your father and myself? Don't you care about us?" Edna asked.

"I do care. You and Father took me in when I was a baby when Papa and Mama lost me. I'll always love you, but don't ask me to make a choice between you, Papa, Mama, and this family. I won't be able to do it," Katie said.

"Well then good night," Edna said stiffly.

"Good night, Mother," Katie said.

Katie went back to her room and went to her window seat. Katie looked up at the stars in the sky, trying to figure out why her mother was making things confusing.

* * * * * * * *

Katie woke up early the next morning. After quickly changing into a dress of Spanish make, Katie went down the stairs to the breakfast room.

Everyone was seated at the breakfast table, including Edna.

"Good morning, Papa," Katie said, kissing her father's cheek.

"Good morning, my dear," Jarrod said.

"Good morning, Katalina. I trust you slept well," Maria said.

"Yes Mama. Papa, may I go for a quick ride on Guinevere before you take me to my lessons?" Katie asked.

"I suppose that's okay. As long as you are not late coming back," Jarrod warned.

"I won't be, I promise," Katie said.

Before you go eat something first," Jarrod said, pushing out her chair next to him with his foot.

"Yes Papa," Katie said.

Edna was quiet this morning. She had hoped she could talk Katie into leaving this place, but Katie seemed to be enjoying herself in Stockton.

She had even learned to ride a horse. At one time she could have sworn her daughter was terrified of horses, but here she was saying she wanted to ride!

"I thought you hated horses, Abigail," Edna said.

"Not really. I only didn't like horses then because a horse jumped with me on its back one fourth of July. My horse here is gentle. Uncle Heath broke it and gave it to me when I first came here," Katie said.

"What kind of horse is it?" Edna asked.

"It's a bay. I call her Guinevere. Uncle Nick says that if you can learn to take care of animals it's the highest form of responsibility. That's why Uncle Nick got me all that stuff yesterday for my birthday," Katie said.

"I suppose every child here learns to ride a horse at a young age," Edna said.

"I guess they do, except Tommy. He's too young," Katie said.

"Do you love this place then?" Edna asked.

"Yes. It's all part I guess of being a Barkley. You can't be a Barkley if you don't love this land or the valley," Katie said.

"What's so important about being a Barkley?" Edna asked.

"The day I arrived here I asked Papa the same question. Do you want to know what he told me?" Katie asked.

"No. What did he tell you?" Edna asked.

Katie stood up and walked to her father. A fierce pride was in his eyes as he looked at her. "He said, that everything is important in being a Barkley. It is who I am. You can't forget who you are, Mother," Katie said.

"I suppose that was what happened with you until this year," Edna said.

"Yes. If it weren’t for that lawyer I would have grown up here where I was supposed to. Mother, have you told the police about the law agency that kidnapped me?" Katie asked, a slight whimper entering her voice.

"No not yet. I think they work in Pittsburgh. A friend of ours recommended us to them," Edna said.

Katie's face turned pale. Did that mean that other girls had been kidnapped too? Jarrod looked up at his daughter. Her eyes told him just what she was thinking. Other girls may have been kidnapped just like her.

* * * * * * * *

Katie sat next to her father on the buckboard into town. Jarrod's face looked like he was mulling over something.

"Papa, are you all right?" Katie asked.

"No. I'm thinking about that lawyer that kidnapped you and gave you to the Stallingforth's," Jarrod said.

"Papa, is there anything we can do about those lawyers that did that?" Katie asked.

Jarrod stopped the buckboard and stared down into the bright blue eyes of his daughter. Since she had come back he hadn't ever lied to her about anything. He loved her as much as he did when she was a baby and she had the colic.

"I think we can do something about it. Katie, it'll mean taking those people to court. Also I have this feeling that those people may have kidnapped other children," Jarrod said.

"What can we do, Papa? Would a place like that keep records about the children they've placed in adoption?" Katie asked.

"Honey, I deal with adoptions all the time. If these lawyers function like all lawyers should, they should have files on your adoption,” Jarrod said.

"Hmmm, I think John Stallingforth showed me my adoption papers one time when I was 6 years old," Katie said.

"Do you remember the law firm that handled it?" Jarrod asked, putting his hands on Katie's shoulders.

"I think it was Samuel Eaton and Burke. I remember when Father died they came out and read the will to us," Katie said.

"Well, I suppose that we should have the police look into that law firm," Jarrod said, pretending to ignore the fact that Katie used the term "Father" on John Stallingforth.

Jarrod started up the buckboard again. Katie looked up again at her father. He looked upset at something, but Katie didn't know what he could be upset about.

"Papa, are you angry with Mother and Father about something?" Katie asked.

"No. What makes you think that?" Jarrod asked, his eyes on the road.

"You're faking a cheery tone," Katie said.

"Well, now that you mention it, there is something wrong," Jarrod said.

"What is it?" Katie asked.

Jarrod stopped the buckboard and turned to look at his daughter.

"It's about what you call John and Edna Stallingforth," Jarrod said.

"What? Mother and Father?" Katie asked, a puzzled look in her blue eyes.

"Yes. Katie, I've tried not to force you into being a Barkley, but Honey, John is not your father. I am," Jarrod said.

"I know, but he was my father since I was a baby," Katie said.

"I know and I'm grateful that they took good care of you when I couldn't. But Honey, it's time you faced the truth. I am your father and I love you," Jarrod said.

"I know. I love you too. Tell you the truth John Stallingforth didn't even want to adopt and as soon as he and Edna got me he was always yelling at me for nothing," Katie said in a small voice and looking down at her hands.

Jarrod pushed her face back up and looked into her eyes. "Honey, I won't yell at you. Haven't you noticed that I only get upset at you if you give me a valid reason?" Jarrod asked.

"Yes Sir. I'm sorry if I hurt you by calling John and Edna "Mother" and "Father," Katie said.

Jarrod smoothed back her long black hair and gently kissed her cheek. "I love you, Honey," Jarrod said.

"I love you too. And I'll try to refrain from calling Edna and John that," Katie said.

"Here, you want to try driving the buckboard?" Jarrod asked, handing the reins to Katie.

"You're going to let me drive the buckboard?" Katie asked.

"Of course I am. Now here's the reins," Jarrod said. Katie took the reins out of his hands and shook them lightly.

The buckboard moved forward, the horses snorting abruptly.

* * * * * * * *

Two weeks later Katie entered Jarrod's study. Jarrod had spent his time since the day after Katie's birthday trying to locate the law agency.

Edna had gone back to Philadelphia three days after Katie's birthday, but not without some feeling disappointment. Katie knew Edna thought Stockton was not as good as Philadelphia, but she also knew that Edna was hurt over the fact that Katie didn't call her "Mother" any more.

Katie opened the door. Jarrod was sitting at his desk; he had a mountain of paperwork and was wearing his wire-rimmed spectacles.

"How's the work coming, Papa?" Katie asked, putting her arm around Jarrod's shoulder.

"Tedious. I thought you were with your mother," Jarrod said, removing his glasses and rubbing his face with his hand.

"I was. Have you found anything about the agency?" Katie asked.

"I'm getting there. Katie, I love having you with me-" Jarrod started.

"I love being with you too," Katie said.

"Let me finish, Honey," Jarrod said, a slight reprimand in his tone.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to interrupt, Papa," Katie said.

"As I was saying, Katie, I love having you with me. But right now I need you to leave. I'll let you know if I find anything about the adoption agency," Jarrod said.

"Papa, I'm curious. Can't I please stay in here? I promise not to bother you again," Katie begged.

Jarrod took one look at his daughter's blue eyes and felt himself giving in. Coward. I can't say no to blue eyes, Jarrod thought amused.

"All right, but I'm holding you to your promise," Jarrod said.

Katie squealed for joy and wrapped her arms around Jarrod's neck. "Thank you, Papa!" Katie exclaimed, kissing his cheek.

She bolted out of the room and upstairs to her room. She grabbed her book of "The Scarlet Letter" and ran back downstairs to the study.

Jarrod looked up as his daughter ran back into the study and plopped onto the couch.

"Katalina Barkley, you be careful with how you sit down on furniture," Jarrod said, strictly.

"Yes, Papa," Katie said, opening her book.

For the next two hours Jarrod went over his paperwork and Katie read her book. Every so often Jarrod would look up at her and smile at her, but Katie was lost in her book.

Katie once looked at her father as he was writing out something. As when she entered the office she was curious if he had found out something, but she had promised not to bother him.

After two hours Jarrod put the papers away and folded his glasses into his vest pocket. Jarrod looked up at his daughter. She was still intently reading her book.

Jarrod walked over to her and gently pulled her long black braid.

Katie looked up at her father. He had a teasing grin on his face. "Very funny, Papa," Katie said, yawning as she stood up.

"I know. That's what papa's are for," Jarrod teased his daughter.

"Did you find out anything, Papa?" Katie asked.

"I wrote out a wire to the Pinkerton Agency. They wrote me and said that three or four agencies kidnap the children of wealthy families out west and give them to wealthy eastern couples," Jarrod said, Wrapping his arm around Katie's shoulders.

"Why did the agency want me? I was only a baby and also I probably didn't leave the house much unless it was to go to mass," Katie asked, her forehead wrinkled with confusion.

"No, you didn't go out much. But the day of your birthday I took you out to the corral where Nick and Heath were breaking horses. Whoever kidnapped you, probably was there that day. And when they saw a one-year-old girl they figured they could take you from your crib that day," Jarrod said.

"You going to tell Mama about this, Papa?" Katie asked.

"Not yet. I haven't gotten all the facts worked out yet. So I don't want you to tell your mother about it. Don't even tell your grandfather," Jarrod warned.

"I won't tell, Papa. I promise," Katie said.

Jarrod kissed his daughter's forehead. "I'll hold you to that promise, Katie," Jarrod said, stroking her thick black hair with his fingertips.

Katie yawned again. Jarrod looked up at the clock on the mantel. "Katie, it's time for bed! Go upstairs and get ready and your mama and myself will be up to kiss you good night in a few minutes," Jarrod said.

"Yes Papa," Katie said, leaving Jarrod's study. As Katie walked out of the room she wondered if Jarrod would be able to find that place that took her. She hoped so. If other children had been taken, like her, they might be able to return them to their parents.

* * * * * * * *

Katie was sitting in her grandmother's rose garden reading a book when Jarrod rode up on his horse a week later.

Jarrod dismounted and handed the reins to Ciego. He went to the bench where Katie sat reading.

"Katie, I need to talk to you," Jarrod said, touching her ear slightly with his fingertip.

Katie looked up at her father. "Oh, hi Papa," Katie said, good-naturedly.

"Katie, I think I found something about the agency that kidnapped you," Jarrod said.

"You did? Where are they, Papa?" Katie asked.

"I think they have moved their offices to Philadelphia. No you told me that John Stallingforth had a lawyer named Samuel Eaton," Jarrod said.

"Yes. When my father died he was the one who read the will. Why do you ask?" Katie asked.

"Could you identify the man if you saw him again?" Jarrod asked.

"Probably. I haven't seen him since the day that Father's will was read, but I think I can," Katie said.

"We'll have to go to Philadelphia. Your mother will talk to Sister Rosita tomorrow," Jarrod said.

"Papa, are we going to stay at Mother's house?" Katie asked.

"No. We are going to stay at the hotel that we stayed at when we came and got you," Jarrod said.

"Papa, do we have any proof that these are the people that took me?" Katie asked.

Jarrod cupped her face with his large hands and looked into her bright blue eyes. "We will stop at Edna's house to pick up your adoption papers. That should be proof enough," Jarrod said.

"Papa, I hope we find them," Katie said.

"I hope we do too, Honey. Those people tried to hurt my family by kidnapping my little girl. I don't want another father to worry about his daughter like I have," Jarrod said.

Jarrod wrapped his arm around her and hugged her. "Papa, I love you," Katie said.

"I love you too, Honey. Now get inside and pack your clothes for the next few weeks. I have a feeling this is going to be a long trip," Jarrod said wearily.

* * * * * * * *

Katie stood in front of her grandfather's front door, waiting for his maid to answer it.

"Buenos dias, Señorita. Your grandfather is in the sala," the maid said.

"Thank you, Francesca," Katie said.

Don Alfredo stood in front of the sala's fireplace. He looked up as Katie entered the room.

"Welcome, Katalina. How are you doing today? Don Alfredo asked.

"I am fine, Grandfather. I just wanted to tell you that I'll be gone for a few weeks," Katie said.

"Where are you going?" Don Alfredo asked.

"Papa found a lead on the people that took me when I was a baby. We leave this afternoon," Katie said.

"I thought Jarrod Barkley might. Does your mother agree with this course of action?" Don Alfredo asked.

"Yes. Papa and Mama talked about it to the whole family. Grandmother says we should. Uncle Nick says that it was in the past and we should forget it. Aunt Audra and Aunt Dora side with Grandmother and Uncle Heath always agrees with Uncle Nick. What do you think, Grandfather, should we?" Katie asked.

"I am not your mother and her husband. That is their decision whether or not they try to find the people that took you and turn them over to the police," Don Alfredo said.

"That's what Papa said. But Grandfather, what about Edna? If these people go to jail for kidnapping would she go too? I mean, she didn't know that she and her husband were kidnapping me," Katie said, sounding afraid for the woman that raised her.

"I'm sure she won't go to jail. She didn't even know that you were not an orphan," Don Alfredo said.

"I hope not. She's been through enough pain. She's already lost John and me. I don't want her to be punished for something she didn't do," Katie said.

"I'm sure that Señor Barkley will talk to the police and she won't get in trouble for your kidnapping," Don Alfredo said.

"I have to go. I have a few more things to pack before I leave," Katie said.

"Que pase un buen día, Katalina," Don Alfredo said.

"Igualmente, Grandfather," Katie said, walking out the door and going back to the Barkley ranch.

* * * * * * * *

Katie had forgotten how long the trip to Philadelphia was. Last time she was too upset and depressed to notice anything. Heath and Dora had decided at the last moment to come with them, and Heath tried to make the trip less boring with card games and the checkerboard.

Jarrod knew his daughter was bored, but what they would find at the end of the trip would help them understand why she was taken.

Jarrod was a little bit worried about what this trip could also mean to Katie. She was coming face to face with the people who took her and he didn't know how his daughter felt emotionally about this trip. He could see the worry and anxiety written all over her face and in her eyes.

Jarrod reached across and squeezed his daughter's hand gently. Katie's hand trembled in his from fear.

Jarrod looked into his daughter's eyes and tried to give her a reassuring smile. Katie attempted to give him a smile in return, but the smile didn't quite make it to her eyes.

"Are you all right, Honey?" Jarrod asked, concern in his deep voice.

"No Papa, I'm not all right. I'm scared," Katie admitted, her voice shaking like her hands.

"What are you afraid of? Those people are not going to kidnap you again," Jarrod said, cupping her face with his hands.

"When I was little John had Samuel Eaton come by the house often. Samuel would revise wills or sue somebody. You know, lawyer things," Katie said.

"That's not something to be scared of, Honey," Jarrod said.

"I know, but Papa, I have never trusted John's lawyer. I felt that there was something about him that was dishonest. When I went to Polly, the cook, she told me that lawyers just give you that impression," Katie said.

"I'm deeply hurt," Jarrod said, his tone amused.

"Papa, I trust you. When I first met you last January you didn't strike me as the type who swindled people," Katie said.

"Thank you, Honey, but sad to say there are plenty of lawyers out there that do just what you said Eaton did," Jarrod said, pulling his daughter into the seat next to him.

"Why do they, Papa? I mean, you are not dishonest and you are a lawyer?" Katie asked.

"Yes, I am. But Katie a lot of lawyers try to become important and they hurt a lot of people just to do it. Myself, I never wanted to do that. I couldn't stomach kidnapping a man's daughter so another couple could be happy. Like myself, the man who had the daughter could end up miserable because he lost her," Jarrod said.

"Papa, when did you decide to be a lawyer?" Katie asked.

"When I was about 15 years old. Your grandfather was fit to be tied about the whole thing. He wanted me to be a rancher like your uncles, but I said I was not a rancher like Heath or Nick," Jarrod said.

"Why did Grandpa want you to be a rancher, Papa?" Katie asked.

"Because I was the first born son and your grandfather couldn't see that I had to live my own life," Jarrod said.

"Papa, have you ever wished that you could have been a rancher?" Katie asked.

"Sometimes. But I am happy with my life now. Your mother's a wonderful woman and I love her very much. I have two beautiful children that I am privileged to have as my own and a wonderful mother, sister, and brothers. I don't have a thing to complain about," Jarrod said, wrapping his arm around Katie's shoulder.

"What about Grandfather? He still hates you. He called you Señor Barkley when I told him we were leaving today," Katie said.

"I know. Your grandfather has never accepted me as your father or as his son-in-law. But he has accepted you as his granddaughter. So I'm not going to complain how much he dislikes me," Jarrod said.

"Papa, I'd like to read now if that's all right," Katie said, picking up the book of Spain from her seat across from her.

"Sure go ahead. I have some paperwork I need to do," Jarrod said, kissing her forehead. Katie and Jarrod spent the rest of the time in silence lost in their books and paperwork, feeling a little bit better about the task that waited for them in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia was as big as Katie remembered it. And also the weather was not as warm as the San Joachin Valley. Katie pushed back her bonnet as the carriage went through the streets.

Jarrod, Maria, and Victoria rode in one carriage and Heath, Dora, and Katie rode in the other. All the way to the hotel Katie looked out the window at the sights of Philadelphia.

The town looked brighter than that day when she had first come back to her father and mother. The sun shone in all the glass windows and a breeze blew all the leaves and flower petals around.

"Someone looks happy to be back in Philadelphia," Aunt Dora commented.

"I am happy, Aunt Dora. I just never realized how much I missed this place. But I do think I like Stockton better," Katie said.

"I know what you mean. When you come across a place like Stockton all the big cities can't compare to it," Heath said.

"Yeah. It's like Stockton has its own hugeness to it," Katie agreed.

Katie resumed to look out the window. "Hey look! There's Freedom Hall! John one time took me there when I was five. He said this was an important turning point in the American Revolution," Katie said, pointing at a huge brick building.

Heath and Dora looked out at various landmarks that she pointed out as they went to the hotel.

At the hotel Heath jumped out of the carriage and helped Dora and Katie out.

Jarrod was helping Maria and Victoria out and he looked over at his younger brother. "Heath and myself will get the bags while you ladies check us into our rooms," Jarrod said.

Katie followed her mother, aunt, and grandmother into the hotel and up to the front desk.

As soon as Jarrod and Heath entered the hotel room the Barkley women were in the family sitting room. It was the same suite of rooms that the family had used last time. Katie sat on the window seat, the window open to let in the cool breeze.

"All right Ladies, let's decide where to start with this," Jarrod said.

"Papa, we could go to Mother's and ask her to give us my adoption papers. Father had them in an iron safe and she knows the combination," Katie volunteered.

"That's a wonderful idea, Katie! Would Edna let us have them?" Jarrod asked, sitting on the window seat next to his daughter.

"I'm sure she would. She has absolutely no use for them since Father died and I left," Katie said.

Jarrod tried to keep his face calm. After asking her not to call John and Edna those names, she still did! "I'm sure she doesn't," Jarrod said.

"Well, let's go," Katie said, standing up.

"Now?" Heath asked.

Katie got a slightly perturbed look on her face at the dumb question. "No next week, Uncle Heath," Katie said, her voice full of sarcasm.

Heath shook his head in amusement. "Boy howdy, don't you look like your grandfather when you get upset," Heath commented.

"Right. At least I don't burn people out of their homes when I get mad. I just give them the silent treatment," Katie said.

Jarrod looked at his daughter. Heath was right she did look like her grandfather when she got upset. At least though her anger never lasted long like his did.

A tap at the door broke his concentration. Maria answered it. "Father!" Maria exclaimed. Don Alfredo stood on the other side of the door.

Don Alfredo entered the room, cold determination all over his face.

"Montero, what are you doing here?" Heath asked the question all had on their minds.

"Señor, I decided about an hour after Katalina left my hacienda to help you find the people responsible for her abduction," Don Alfredo said.

Jarrod nodded his head in appreciation. "Thank you for your concern, but you can go back to Stockton, Don Alfredo," Jarrod said.

"It is no trouble at all, Señor. Katalina is my granddaughter and we should find out who took her," Don Alfredo said, coldly.

Apparently after that little admission he still didn't want to admit that his granddaughter's father was his son-in-law. He still treated Jarrod and his family as if they were dirt.

"Thank you, Father," Maria said.

"You are welcome, mi hija," Don Alfredo said.

"Papa, Uncle Heath, what do we do now?" Katie asked, pushing a long lock of black hair behind her ear.

"I told Jarrod what you told me about your adoption papers bein' in a safe. Can you tell Edna to give them to us?" Heath asked.

"I'm sure I could, Uncle Heath. We'd have to go over to Mother's house though," Katie said.

"Are you certain she would still have these adoption papers?" Don Alfredo asked.

"I don't know. She could have burned them the night that she came back here from Stockton a few weeks ago. But I doubt it," Katie said.

"Why?" Victoria asked, slipping an arm around her granddaughter's shoulders.

"Mother is not the type to throw anything out. She'd tell a maid to do it. Mother is- How do I say it? She's lazy when it comes to cleaning the house. If a maid can clean a room, she's not going to clean it herself," Katie said.

"That's pretty sad," Dora said.

"I know, Aunt Dora," Katie said.

"So you do think they may still be in that safe?" Jarrod asked his daughter.

"I have no doubts, Papa. When do we go over there to get the papers?" Katie asked.

"After we eat if that's all right," Jarrod said.

"Sounds good and Papa, I hate chicken!" Katie exclaimed.

"What?" Jarrod asked, a confused look on his face.

"That first night that you came and got me you ordered my food for me. It was chicken. I hate the taste of chicken," Katie said, making a terrible face at the thought of chicken.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Jarrod asked.

"Would you have listened to me? And anyway I was mad at you, remember?" Katie asked.

"She's got you there, Jarrod," Heath said, amused by this conversation between his brother and niece.

"Well, what do you like then?" Jarrod asked.

"This restaurant has some really good pot roast that I like a lot. I think I'll eat that," Katie said.

"That sounds good," Heath said.

"It is. It's the best thing on the menu and I should know. I used to eat here every Sunday after church," Katie said.

"Well, let's get down to the dining room. We only have a few days to find the people who stole Katie and turn them over to the police," Jarrod said.

Katie followed her family down the stairs to the dining room, praying that those bad people who stole her would go to jail for their crimes.

* * * * * * * *

After dinner Jarrod, Katie, and Maria went to Edna's house. Outside the ornate front door of the Stallingforth mansion, Katie took a few deep breaths. She raised a trembling hand and knocked on the door.

Jarrod placed a reassuring hand on Katie's shoulder. Jarrod knew his daughter was nervous about coming to Edna's house. After all she had decided she was happier in Stockton with her father's family.

Katie turned to look at Jarrod. She looked as if she was going to cry. The door opened and Katie turned back to it.

Helga's face turned to pure joy when she saw Katie. "Miss Abigail! You're back!" Helga exclaimed, throwing her arms around Katie's shoulders.

"Happy to see you too, Helga," Katie said.

"Are you back home to stay, Miss?" Helga asked with the enthusiasm of a five-year-old.

"No. I need to talk to Mother. Is she in?" Katie asked.

"Yes Miss. She's in the parlor," Helga said.

"Thank you," Katie said, walking into the house. Jarrod and Maria followed her into the house.

"Miss, do you need instructions to the parlor?" Helga asked.

"That won't be necessary, Helga. I've lived in this house for nearly 10 years. I think I would know the way to it," Katie said, smiling at her friend.

"When you get done talking to your mother you will come back and talk to us, won't you, Miss?" Helga asked.

"I promise. All of you wait for me in the kitchen. I wouldn't dream of being here and not talking to my friends," Katie said.

Katie walked into the parlor. Edna was reading a book on her chaise lounge.

"Mother?" Katie asked.

Edna looked up from her book. Katie stood before her. Jarrod and Maria Barkley stood behind her.

"Abigail? What are you doing here?" Edna asked, standing up.

"Mother, I need my adoption papers. Do you still have them?" Katie asked.

"I probably do. You know how I am about cleaning out your father's office or safe," Edna said.

"Yeah. I'm well aware of that," Katie, mumbled under her breath.

"What was that?" Edna asked.

"Nothing. Look Mother, this is important. Can you give me the combination to Father's safe? It's important that we get those papers," Katie asked, her blue eyes pleading.

"Why don't you all sit down and Helga will bring us some tea?" Edna asked.

"Mother, we don't have time for tea. All I want is that combination. Please, can you give it to me?" Katie asked.

"I'm sorry, Abigail. I can not do that," Edna said.

"Why not, Mrs. Stallingforth?" Jarrod finally said.

"Well, when my John died I promised him that those papers would stay in his safe under lock and key. And if I give them to you now I'll be going back on my promise," Edna said.

Katie's face flushed red with anger. Of all the times for Edna to say that she couldn't give her the papers! Katie took a few deep breaths to control her temper.

"Mother, please. I need those papers. Papa wants to look them over. Please, just give me Father's combination," Katie begged.

"I'm sorry. I cannot, Abigail," Edna said firmly.

Katie cast a helpless glance at her father. Jarrod knew his daughter was frustrated. Jarrod put his hand on her shoulder.

"Mrs. Stallingforth, we have to have those papers. Katie feels it was Samuel Eaton who stole her and I'd like to be able to produce proof to a judge if I can. I can't build a wall without any bricks," Jarrod said, the look on his face almost matching his daughter's. Pure frustration.

"It couldn't have been Samuel Eaton. My husband and myself have used his law firm for the past twenty years," Edna said, shock in her green eyes.

"Mother, I don't trust Samuel Eaton. I think he steals children to pass them off as orphans to wealthy families here in the east," Katie said.

"Well, you never liked the man, but I don't think he would steal children," Edna said stubbornly.

"MRS. STALLINGFORTH, GET THOSE ADOPTION PAPERS OR I'M GETTING THEM MYSELF!!!!" Katie yelled finally losing her temper.

"How do you propose to do that?" Edna asked.

"You'll see. Helga?" Katie called.

The young servant came into the room. "Yes, Miss?" Helga asked.

"Helga, my father's safe combination is in his office right?" Katie asked.

"No Miss. It's in your mother's desk," Helga asked.

Katie walked over to her mother's desk and started to poke around through the drawers.

Jarrod walked over to where Katie stood pulling paper after paper out of the desk drawers. Katie hadn't bothered to read any of them yet, but that was where Jarrod came in.

Jarrod slipped his glasses out of his coat pocket and onto his nose. He picked up the first piece of paper and read it.

"Mr. Barkley, I protest at this!" Edna protested loudly.

Katie looked up at Edna. Maria stood next to her. "Mama, can you take her into the garden? Ask Helga were it is," Katie said.

Maria knew that if Edna complained the whole time Jarrod and Katie would never find the combination. So she complied with her daughter's wishes.

As Edna and Maria left Katie breathed a huge sigh of relief. That sound made Jarrod smile as he looked up at her.

"Relieved?" Jarrod asked, humor reflected in his clear blue eyes.

"Yes. Mother is one huge pain in the neck! Why do I always forget that?" Katie asked.

"I don't know. My father was hard to get along with, but I loved him any way. It's like you love that person so much you forget the faults they have," Jarrod said.

"Probably. I think you are overbearing sometimes, but now I haven't even thought about it," Katie said.

"Thank you for the compliment, Miss Barkley," Jarrod said, his voice filled with sarcasm.

"Papa, it's true. Sometimes you do get on my nerves, but when that happened I was just mad at you," Katie said.

"Like when I came and got you?" Jarrod asked.

"Yeah that's one time," Katie said, putting her hand on her father's hand.

"I am sorry for that time. I just felt like I loved you so much I wanted the little girl back that was taken from me," Jarrod said, reaching up and touching her face gently with the tips of his fingers.

"Papa, you got me back. But I think we should get back to this," Katie said, throwing her arms around Jarrod's neck and hugging him. Katie's arms were wrapped so hard around her father's neck Jarrod felt that Katie was going to cut off his breathing.

Jarrod patted her shoulder and went back to the papers on the desk.

Katie picked up a piece of paper and started to read. After about 5 pieces of paper, Katie gasped.

"Did you find it?" Jarrod asked.

"I think so. Papa, does this look like a safe combination to you?" Katie asked, showing the paper to Jarrod.

Jarrod looked over the groups of numbers on the papers. "It looks as if it could be. There's only one way to find out, Katie," Jarrod said.

Jarrod took Katie's hand in his hand and ran with her all the way to John Stallingforth's study.

"Papa, may I open the safe?" Katie asked.

"Here's the combination," Jarrod handed the paper to her. Katie plopped down on the floor and put in the first number of the combination they found. Jarrod took a deep breath and waited.

After the fourth number the safe opened. Five files were in the safe along with some valuables.

Katie took out the files and put them on John's large desk. Katie opened the first file. It didn't take until they got to the bottom of the pile to find the papers.

Jarrod read over the file briefly and closed it. He put his hand on Katie's shoulder. "I think this is it. Go get your mother," Jarrod said, his voice not leaving much room for argument.

"Yes Papa," Katie made it to the kitchen and garden. Edna and Maria were on the bench talking. Polly had served them tea in the garden and Helga stood behind Edna waiting for further orders.

Katie knew that Maria would want to know what happened, but she decided to wait until she got back to the hotel. She didn't really want to hear Edna's whining over how she had made a promise to John about not showing the papers.

* * * * * * * *

Jarrod carried the file into the hotel sitting room and put it on the table in the middle of the room. He opened the file and spread the papers about.

Maria stood next to her husband and tried to read the papers over his shoulder.

"Jarrod, I can't understand a thing," Maria said, her forehead wrinkled as she tried to read the papers.

"It's all written in legal terms. I'll read it and try to translate to all of you what it says," Jarrod said, slipping his spectacles back on.

After a few minutes Jarrod sat down rubbing his eyes as if he didn't believe what he'd just read.

"What is it, Jarrod?" Heath asked.

"I don't believe what Katie's papers have just said. They said that Maria and myself died of influenza and that she had no living relatives. Also her adoption papers say that her name was Abigail Stanton," Jarrod said.

Katie sat next to her father. "What next, Papa?" Katie asked.

"Well, I have your birth certificate and if we take it and these adoption papers down to the police station we should have enough proof to put Eaton's law firm out of business," Jarrod said.

"Mother's going to kill me," Katie said.

"Why do you say that, Katalina?" Don Alfredo asked.

"Because I'm putting the Stallingforth family lawyer behind bars," Katie said.

"I thought you said you didn't like the man," Dora said.

"I don't, Aunt Dora. But my father trusted him and now we know that he kidnapped other children just like me," Katie said, lowering her blue eyes.

Jarrod put a hand comfortingly on her shoulder. "I know that when you do something right not everyone is going to agree with you. I often had to do things as a lawyer that nobody, but myself thought was right," Jarrod said.

"Boy howdy, don't we know it!" Heath exclaimed.

"Really, Papa? I thought that everyone usually agreed with what you do as a lawyer," Katie said.

"No. I once defended a man named Korbie Kyles and everyone said he killed a man. The main witness in that trial was your Uncle Heath. Of course I ended up being wrong. There was also a time when I defended a woman named Julia Saxon for the same crime of murder and she ended up being innocent. So sometimes you can be wrong about someone and sometimes you can be right," Jarrod said.

"Papa, what if your right and everyone still hates you?" Katie asked.

"Well, if you did the right thing and they still hate you that's their fault and not yours," Jarrod said.

"Papa, how many years do people get in jail for kidnapping?" Katie asked.

"I think it's fifteen years," Jarrod said.

"Papa, you aren't mad at Mr. Eaton, are you?" Katie asked.

"I'm furious with him. Look what he did to our family and Edna," Jarrod said.

"I'm sorry. It's all my fault," Katie said.

Jarrod gently brushed some loose tendrils of black hair out of her eyes. "No, it's not your fault. You were a baby. You being kidnapped was beyond your control," Jarrod said, looking into her bright blue eyes with a firm look.

"Papa, I love you," Katie said, throwing her arms around his neck.

"I love you too, Katie," Jarrod said, kissing her cheek. He gently stroked her thick black hair and looked into her eyes. "Now do me a favor," Jarrod said.

"What, Papa?" Katie asked.

"Smile for me. I hate to see my little girl look so unhappy," Jarrod ordered.

"Yes Papa," Katie said. A sunny grin spread across her face.

"You know, big brother, I think Katie looks so happy when she smiles," Heath said.

"That's why I asked her to smile, Heath," Jarrod said.

"She looks like my wife, Katalina, when she smiles," Don Alfredo said.

"Really?" Katie asked, standing up.

"Yes, really," Don Alfredo said.

"I'd wish I'd known her. Was she pretty?" Katie asked.

"Very. Your mother looks just like her," Don Alfredo said.

"And you do have her necklace," Dora said.

"Yes. I'm saving it for Christmas," Katie said.

"Well, I suppose we should go to the police station," Jarrod said.

"How long are you going to be gone, Jarrod?" Maria asked.

"It depends on how long it takes to issue a warrant for Eaton's arrest," Jarrod said.

"Jarrod, be careful," Victoria warned.

"We will, Mother," Heath said, kissing Victoria's cheek.

Jarrod kissed Maria on her forehead then turned to Katie.

"You will come back, won't you, Papa?" Katie asked.

"I promise," Jarrod said, taking his daughter in his arms and hugging her.

Jarrod walked out the door with Heath and Don Alfredo and the Barkley women sat down to wait. Katie prayed that the police would listen to Jarrod about Samuel Eaton.

* * * * * * * *

Katie sat in the sitting room watching Victoria, Dora, and Maria sew. Katie hated sewing. It made her feel like she would stick her fingers with the needles if she tried to do it.

"Katalina, read a book," Maria said, looking at her impatient daughter.

"I've already done that," Katie said.

"Why don't you sew with us then?" Aunt Dora suggested, her eyes on her knitting hoop.

"I hate sewing, Aunt Dora! Mother has already tried to teach me how to sew. That was a catastrophe," Katie said, shivering at the memory.

"What happened?" Victoria asked.

"I accidentally sewed the material I was working on to the hem of my dress and I pricked my fingers about 100 times," Katie asked.

Maria looked down and smiled at the despairing look on her daughter's face.

"Mama, that was not funny! It was a nightmare!" Katie yelped, her face turning beet red.

"Katalina, lower your voice. I'm just teasing you," Maria said, patting her daughter's slender hand with her hand.

"Yeah, I wonder," Katie mumbled under her breath.

"Maria, why don't we go out and go to the police ourselves?" Dora asked.

"No. Jarrod and the men don't want our help. We should let the men handle this," Maria said.

"But did Jarrod say we have to stay here?" Dora asked.

"Jarrod didn't have to ask that we stay here. His eyes said it all," Maria said, defending her husband.

"Maria, what if Jarrod kills the man who kidnapped Katie?" Dora asked.

"He won't. Jarrod said a long time ago that he prayed to Heaven that he'd not get angry again and want to kill someone," Victoria said.

"When was that, Mother?" Maria asked.

"When his first wife was murdered in front of him. I think it was God who prevented Jarrod from seeking revenge when Katie was kidnapped before and also now," Victoria said.

"But do we really have to sit here, not knowing anything, Mama?" Katie asked.

"I suppose you're right, Katalina," Maria said, setting aside her sewing.

The three women and girl stood up and went out the door ready to solve this puzzle.

* * * * * * * *

Jarrod, Heath, Don Alfredo, and the police arrived at the offices of Samuel Eaton an hour after the women left the hotel.

At that moment Jarrod tried to remain calm. After 9 years of wondering Jarrod was going to come face to face with his daughter's kidnapper. He silently sent a prayer to Heaven asking God to give him forgiveness toward this man that stole his daughter from him so long ago.

Jarrod walked up to the secretary, who was filing some papers in some folders.

"Miss?" Jarrod asked, trying to get her attention.

"May I help you, Sir?" The woman asked, peering at the group over her wire-rimmed glasses.

"Yes. We are here to see Samuel Eaton," Jarrod said, his tone completely business-like.

"May I ask who's calling on business?" The woman asked.

"Yes. My name's Jarrod Barkley and these are my brother Heath and my father-in-law Don Alfredo Montero," Jarrod said.

"I'll tell him, Sir," the woman said, walking into the office on her right.

"Well, here goes, Jarrod," Heath said softly to his brother.

"Yes, Heath. Here goes," Jarrod said.

"Mr. Barkley, how are we going to be able to identify the man who stole your daughter?" Chief-of Police Hanratty asked.

"I might be able to help you on that," Katie said, walking into the office.

"Katie!" Heath exclaimed.

Jarrod walked over to his daughter, a stern look on his face.

"What are you doing here? I expected you to stay at the hotel," Jarrod said, his face and voice grim.

"That's what Mama said you expected, but, Papa, all of us just couldn't sit there and worry all by ourselves," Katie said.

"Your mother? She's here too?" Jarrod asked.

"Yes Sir. I talked her into leaving the hotel," Katie admitted.

"That's terrific," Jarrod moaned, rubbing his face with his hand.

"I'm sorry, Papa," Katie apologized.

"Who else is here, Katie? I mean besides your mother?" Heath asked.

"Mama, Grandmother, and Aunt Dora?" Katie said it as if she were asking a question.

The secretary came out followed by a man wearing a linen brown suit and a pair of spectacles. He had thin dark brown hair.

"Jarrod Barkley?" The man asked nervously.

"Papa, that's him!" Katie whispered violently.

Jarrod looked at the man. He looked like he wouldn't squash a bug, let alone kidnap a one-year-old girl.

"Katie, he doesn't look like he'd kidnap children," Jarrod whispered.

"Papa, he's tricking you. He's not like this. Mr. Eaton, do you remember me? You arranged my adoption nine years ago and read my father's will three years ago," Katie said.

"Young lady, I've read a lot of wills and arranged a lot of adoptions. You'll have to be more specific," Samuel said.

"Does the name Abigail Stallingforth ring a bell? You arranged my adoption with my adopted parents John and Edna Stallingforth," Katie said.

Samuel looked at Katie and then Jarrod. It was as if Jarrod then saw the truth in this man's eyes. This man knew who he was and that he had intentionally taken Katie.

"Mr. Samuel Eaton, we have a warrant for your arrest," Hanratty said.

"What are the charges?" Eaton asked.

"You are under arrest for the kidnapping of Katalina Maria Isabel Barkley from her home in Stockton, California on April 23rd 1882," Hanratty said.

* * * * * * * *

Katie flopped onto the couch in the hotel sitting room, feeling very tired for the first time since they had arrived in Philadelphia.

"Katie, don't flop on the couch," Jarrod warned. "I don't want to pay for a broken couch while we're here."

"Sorry Papa. I'm just glad that this is all over. I have never felt so tired," Katie said.

"I'm relieved that this is over too," Maria said.

"I have come to the conclusion about something," Don Alfredo said, breaking into the conversation.

"What about, Father?" Maria asked, her brown eyes curious.

"I was wrong, Maria. I was wrong about everything," Don Alfredo said.

'What do you mean that you were wrong, Grandfather?" Katie asked.

Don Alfredo looked at Heath and then looked at Jarrod. "I thought there was no man on this planet that would be good enough for my daughter, but you come very close, Jarrod Barkley," Don Alfredo said.

"Did you just give me a compliment?" Jarrod asked, surprised.

"Yes. I am sorry for the way I have treated your family and yourself. I hope you can forgive me. When Maria married you I think she made the right decision. I was just too blind to see it and too stubborn," Don Alfredo said.

"Thank you, Father. You have made me very happy. I love Jarrod very much and I also love you," Maria said, kissing her father's wrinkled cheek.

"I also have an apology to make to Katalina," Don Alfredo said, turning to his granddaughter.

"I'm listening, Grandfather," Katie said, her eyes misting over with tears.

"I am sorry that I didn't want to accept you either. You are very sweet and kind. I was wrong to treat you like I did," Don Alfredo said.

"Don't worry about it. It's no big deal," Katie said, her eyes saying the opposite of what she just said.

Don Alfredo turned back to Jarrod, He held out his hand and Jarrod took it with his hand. In that firm handshake the Barkley and Montero families made peace with each other. The peace made would last for a lifetime.

THE END