The Time Travelers' Club -- Chapter 76: The Rescue

All was silent.

Albert whispered to Rose and pointed to the single door.  "There.  That's the door to the Doctor's private chamber.  You and Lottie should try it first."

The group began to tip-toe apart; each inspecting their own view of the entryway.  Rose and Mrs. Steers glided over to the door.  Rose stooped down to look through the keyhole, while Mrs. Steers put her ear to the door.

Rose looked up at her and shook her head.  She mouthed. I can't see anything.

Mrs. Steers shrugged and mouthed.  I don't hear anything.  Looking around, she watched the others as they moved toward their designated positions.

Griff and Xavier slipped up to the main doors, gently trying to open them.  They were locked.   Reaching inside his coat pocket, he pulled out a long metal hook, leaned down, and slowly slipped it into the keyhole.  Turning the hook, he listened carefully, until he heard a click.  Retrying the knob, it turned.    Trenda moved from his position over to Xavier.

I'll go out and be ready, mouthed Trenda.  Griff went with him and stood on the stoop outside.   Xavier opened the door and they slipped out.  The sun was starting to set, so he was able to see the entire front driveway and gardens.  He turned back to Xavier and mouthed All clear then gave a thumbs up.  Xavier left the door ajar.

Xavier nodded at Ari. Pressing himself against the stairway wall, Ari snuck up the first few steps.  He stopped and nodded at Xavier.

Scurried over to Rose and Mrs. Steers, Xavier used Griff's hook to unlock the door, then went back to the main entrance. Mrs. Steers grasped the doorknob and slowly turned it.  She pulled it open enough for Rose to see inside the room.  She could see no one.  Rose shook her head.  Mrs. Steers opened the door wider.   Rose gasped.  Sam was tied to one of the metal framed chairs.  His head down, she couldn't see his face.

Albert moved behind Rose.   He could see in the door, spotting Sam.  He inadvertently grimaced, looking at Mrs. Steers.  Mrs. Steers put her hand to her mouth, trying not to speak or move, but knowing that what they saw wasn't good.  Her eyes teared up.

Rose and Albert crept into the room.  Mrs. Steers followed.  When she spied Sam tied to the chair, she gasped out loud.   "Oh no."

Albert grabbed her, shaking his head.  He whispered.  "Be strong now."

Rose ran over to Sam and gently placed her hand over his mouth.  She didn't want him to scream.  Sam slowly opened his eyes, widening them at the sight of Rose.

Rose put her finger to her lips in the shushing motion.   "Be very quiet," she whispered.  Rose pulled a pocketknife from her skirt pocket.  She cut through the ropes that bounds his legs, then his hands.

Meanwhile, Albert tried opening some of the windows, but with no luck.

Out in the hallway, Ari remained motionless on the stairway.  Xavier was poised at the main entrance.   Ready for any attack that might happen.  Underneath the stairs, a small door opened and Fulop Farkas appeared.  Walking into the middle of the hallway, he studied a piece of paper, then said out loud.

"That's it.  I figured out the potion." Farkas looked up and stared right at Xavier.  Ari leapt down from the stairs and grabbed Farkas.   Xavier flung open the doors before rushing to aid Ari.

It was too late.  Farkas had already screamed out.  "Help!"

Dreda came down the stairs, throwing mini orbs in all directions.   Xavier and Ari ducked and used Farkas as their shield.

"Stop throwing those orbs!" yelled Farkas but was too late.  One smacked him in the center of his forehead.  He fell unconscious to the floor.

The Time Travelers' Club -- Chapter 75: The Plan

 "Albert and Uncle Griffin," said Xavier.  "You two have been in the Doctor's house before.   Especially you Albert.  How many times?"

"Four...," said Albert at first, counting in his head.  " No... wait... five times.  I know it very well.   I would almost bet that Sam's in the front parlor.  That's the Doctor's private chamber.  And a sick one at that.  He's got all these twisted paintings of people hanging on the wall."

Rose returned with Trenda.  Everyone had now arrived at the Steers' house and assembled in the back parlor.

"Great," said Xavier pacing in front of the fireplace.  "We'll depend on you to get us in.   We need to make sure that we get Sam out safely."

Going to the parlor doorway, Xavier glanced into the front parlor.  Emily was still asleep on the sofa in the front parlor.

"How long until she wakes up?" asked Xavier, looking at Mrs. Steers.

"We have plenty of time.  She'll be out for a couple of hours."   Mrs. Steers wrung her hands.

"Great."  Xavier now circled the table, thinking while everyone else sat waiting for instructions.  He took on the role of director just like he had done in school with his plays.

"I'm quite proud of you taking on this leadership role," said Rose, then asked about the Doctor's mansion.  "Albert, are there traps?   Will we need to be concerned about hidden incantations?"

"No," said Albert.  "The main problem will be the incantation on the house that keeps people from getting out.   You can get in, but you can't use the migration spell to get out."

William Trenda chimed in.  "Interesting.   Do you know who has the power to use that?"

"I'm not sure.  I've been lucky in using conventional exits."

"I know when you rescued me, we used a back door. " Uncle Griff leaned forward and put his arms on the table.  "We should really attack during the day, not tonight.  That way the light from the incantations won't be seen."

"We're going to have to come on strong," said Mrs. Steers, as she banged her fist in her palm.

"I think we should just appear tossing orbs in every direction," added Albert.

Ari jumped in on the rapidly escalating conversation.   "I think we should be careful.  We don't want to injury each other nor do we want them to use Sam as a shield."

Their frustrations began to soar as they tossed and shot down ideas.  With one eyebrow arched, Xavier continued to pace around the table, absorbing the comments and suggestions of each person.

"I agree, but the stronger the attack..." Rose was stopped by Mrs. Steers.

"Please don't forget we have others to think about..."

Ignoring the growing mass of frustration and arguing around the table, Xavier stopped by the mantel and stared at the face of the small mantle clock.  Placing his hand out to grip the marble, he thought to himself.

If I only he had told me more about the layout of the Doctor's personal chamber.   I should have pushed him for more information.  I know the rest of the house well, but not that room. If only we had more time...

Stopping, he closed his eyes, frowning and trying to relive the entire conversation.

He told me that the Doctor's chamber doors are always locked.   We should be able to get in, but the incantation is powerful.   He didn't know who had cast it, but someone has great power to use that incantation.   I hope he's right about the windows.  I would hate myself if something happened to Sam...

"Xavier, are you alright?  What are you thinking?"  Rose was eyeing Xavier again, trying to read him.

Xavier snapped out of his deep thoughts.  Rubbing his chin, he turned back to the assembly who had stopped talking, waiting for him to develop a plan.

"Yes, I'm fine. Just thinking."  Holding his hands in a prayer position in front of his face, Xavier closed his eyes, gathered his thoughts, and then began talking.

"Ladies and gentlemen.  We are going to have to infiltrate the Doctor's mansion to rescue Sam.  We are going to have to put ourselves in a position to protect Sam from any harm.   The Doctor undoubtedly has already begun to question him.  Surely, he wouldn't force him into talking, but I wouldn't be surprised if..."

"Don't say it," said Mrs. Steers, getting emotional at the thought of Sam in the hands of those louses.  "This is all my fault."

Getting up, Albert leaned down and hugged her.  "This is not your fault.   Sam is fine.  And if the Doctor has laid a hand on him, he'll pay."  Albert stood firm, making it known without a word that he would be ready to take on Dr. Herkeimer himself.

"Albert, please remain calm," said Rose, touching his arm.  "We are in this together.  We'll all take care of the Doctor."

"Damn straight!"  Uncle Griff stood up, slamming a hand on the table.  "That sick bastard won't stand a chance when I get a hold of him."

Xavier admired his Uncle's spunk.  "Alright!  Let's do it.  Here's the plan."

Everyone listened as Xavier detailed a plan.  "Uncle Griff, Trenda, and Ari you three will be our defensive.   Lottie and Rose will find Sam and get him out.  He trusts you two, better than anyone else at the moment.  You two are to get him out."

"Don't worry," said Mrs. Steers, standing up from her chair.   "I intend to do everything I can to protect Sam."

"Albert, you be near the Doctor's chamber to help Lottie and Rose.  I will work on the front doors.   Getting them open.  They will be our main escape route... I hope."

"Now, let us be off.  Rose and Lottie in the middle of the circle," said Mrs. Steers.

Mrs. Steer and Rose huddled back to back while everyone else stood with their backs to them, forming a circle around them.  Everyone one placed their hands on each other's shoulders, so when the incantation was activated, they would move as one.

"We are the shield," said Xavier.  "Everyone be prepared to fight.  I have no idea who or what we will encounter."

Ari adjusted a strap under his woolen vest.  "I've got big Bertha right here."

"Good."  Albert snickered.  "You'll need her.  I'm glad I gave you that blade."  Albert referred to Ari's 8-inch miniature sword.

"Alright everyone... And off we go!"  Xavier recited the incantation.

In a flash, they stood in the cold unwelcoming main entryway of Dr. Herkeimer's mansion.   The richly polished black marble floor was covered with a few Turkish rugs.  Other than two Gothic-style chairs on each side of a door, there were no other furnishings.  The bare white walls made the whole entrance look like a hospital.

Albert faced a single door. Ari looked up the sweeping staircase that wound up to a second level.   Xavier faced the double-doors that led outside.

The Time Travelers' Club -- Chapter 74: Intimidation

After the charade in the hallway, Dr. Herkeimer came back into the room and locked the door.  Turning to glare at Sam, he slipped the key in his vest pocket.   The Doctor made a beeline to Sam, without taking his eyes off him.  Sam had sat down in one of the chairs near the fireplace.

"The time has come for us to talk," said Dr. Herkeimer, adjusting his shirt sleeves at his jacket cuffs.

Sam pushed himself back into the stiff cushion of the chair and pulled his knees up to his chest.  He wrapped his arms around his legs, interlocking his trembling fingers.  His tears subsided.  He looked down at his worn shoes.

Doctor Herkeimer began sauntering around the room, rubbing his hands together.  "I want some information.  And you will give it to me."

Stopping in front of Sam, the Doctor stood at arm's length and silently glared down at him.  Crossing his arms, he squeezed and rubbed his fingers into his upper arms.

"Now!"  Sam jumped at the Doctor's explosive voice.  The Doctor enunciated his words.  "You will tell me what I want to know."   The Doctor brutishly quizzed Sam.  "Where are the books?"

Sam squeezed his hands tightly around his knees.  "I don't know anything about the books.  I've never seen..."

"Liar!"  Dr. Herkeimer's face turned red, his temper raising.   He dug his fingers harder into his upper arms.  "You listen to me, you sniveling brat.  I am becoming impatient!  I will make you talk.  I will make you tell me."

Sam tried to move sideways out of the chair.  All he could think about was running, getting away from this mad man.  The Doctor bent down and placed his hands on the chair's arms, trapping Sam.  His face was within inches of Sam's face.   Sam turned his face away.

"Now listen to me," said the Doctor in a firm yet quiet voice.  "Your mother..."

Before he could finish, Sam shoved Doctor Herkeimer, sending him staggering a few steps backward.  Dr. Herkeimer tumbled over the sofa's arm and landed sideways on its firm leather cushions.

"You leave my Mother alone!"

Sam leapt from the chair and ran towards the curtained windows.  Pulling the drapes back, Sam tugged at window latches, but all were locked.  The Doctor regained his balance.  He walked over to Sam and tried to grab him by the nape of his neck.  Sam was quick and ran to the other side of the sofa, just avoiding another attempt by the Doctor to grab him.

The Doctor glared at Sam.  "You are just like him. The little bastard.  He was also eleven at the time.  I hated him for what he did."

"What are you talking about?"  All Sam knew was that he had to escape, save his Mom, and then get as far away from this madman.

Clenching his fists tightly, Dr. Herkeimer became outraged.  "I wished I could have killed him myself."

Lunging forward over the sofa, the Doctor tried to grab Sam who ran to the other side of the room, hiding himself behind the drapes.  Feeling a force of air, Sam noticed a window was open a crack that he had missed before.   He worked his way towards it.  Pushing open the window as far as he could, he started to crawl out.

Throwing back the drapes, Dr. Herkeimer reached down and grabbed Sam's right leg. Pulling him back into the room, Sam kicked with his free leg, but the Doctor grabbed it and flipped Sam over, pushing him on his back to the marble floor.  Sam slid a little on the slick marble, still trying to get away.

The towering Doctor gained his balance and put right his foot on Sam's chest.  He applied enough pressure to hold Sam down.  "You will never leave this house."  The Doctor snarled down at him.  His eyes full of rage and fury.  His jaw clinched in anger.  "And neither will your Mother."

With the threat to his Mom, Sam reached up the Doctor's pant leg and dug his fingernails into Dr. Herkeimer's leg.  The Doctor squinted in pain, stumbled sideways, then fell to his knees. Sam jumped up and ran towards the open window, but the Doctor grabbed his leg once again.   Sam fell face forward and grunted in pain as his left shoulder hit the window sill.

Dragging Sam back down to the floor, the Doctor rolled him over.  This time, on his knees, Doctor Herkeimer straddled Sam.  Sam flailed his hands and arms in the Doctor's face, slapping him several times.  Dr. Herkeimer grabbed both of Sam's wrists with one hand.  Pulling his arms to one side, he slapped Sam hard across the face.

Letting him go, the Doctor stood up and backed away.  He straightened his jacket.  Sam cried and curled up on his side, covering his face with his hands.  The Doctor hovered over Sam.

"That's it.  Cry.  Cry little baby.  Cry for help.  Cry for the old lady to help you.  Cry for God's help.  Just like he did... but no one will come.  No one.  Ever.  I will have my way." The Doctor locked the open window using a key from his other vest pocket.

Sam lay still as best he could, holding his smarting cheek.  His shoulder throbbed.  His back ached from being pushed down onto the marble floor.

"You will not escape...  You will not leave this place..."  Doctor Herkeimer shook his head while making a sad face.   "No, my fine young lad..."  His last words pierced Sam's ear as he hissed at him.   "If you don't tell me what I want to know, then this will be your tomb."

There was a knock on the door.  The Doctor composed himself.   Pulling the door's key from his vest pocket, he unlocked the door.  It was Fan.

"Yes," said Dr. Herkeimer.  "What is it?"

Fan stepped in.  Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Sam curled up on the floor.  "I am leaving.  I must return to China to gather some information.  I will return in a few days."

"Fine.  I will send for you when I need you." The Doctor followed Fan out into the hallway, locking the door behind him.

Back in the room, Sam slowly got up.  His body ached all over from being pushed, shoved, and slapped.  One by one, he pulled back the heavy drapes around the room and inspected each of the window latches.   Outside, it was late in the day.  From what he could see, the house was surrounded by gardens and beyond a dense-looking forest.

Sam slumped down near the window farthest away from the entrance.  Staring outside, he began to question Mrs. Steers' motives.  Why had she dragged him into this?   He began to hate her for letting his Mom get caught and brought here.   He cursed Mrs. Steers' name under his breath.

The Time Travelers' Club -- Chapter 73: Where's Sam?

"And here we are.  Back home safe and sound."  Mrs. Steers went into her kitchen, followed by Ari, Rose, and Xavier.   "The International Council meeting went very well."

The Eastern Chapter of the Time Savers Club had meet with the International Council at request of the council's head, Rufus Leightstone, at his home in Canada.  The meeting was brief, but important.

Only an hour before, Leightstone focused on Mrs. Steers as she spoke.  "I am sure he's the one.   He must be.  The orb that he made was outstanding."

Rose added.  "I've never seen anything like it before."

Leightstone, in a dignified air, handed the report over to another council member.   "We believe you are right and will send out an announcement after the fact.  Please go forward.  It is imperative that Dr. Herkeimer be stopped."   He turned to Trenda.

"It's my understanding that you and the West Coast group are willing to assist."

Trenda nodded his head. "Not a problem."

The meeting ended and everyone departed.  And now, the club sat around the Steers' kitchen table was talking about what to do next.

"Like there were any doubts," said Albert, who appeared from the back parlor.  "You did thorough research."

"Well, I had my doubts.  Especially after I went from the archives directly to headquarters.  I thought for sure I had everything in it."  Mrs. Steers slapped herself lightly on her cheek.  "I'm glad they didn't want any more research."

Albert kissed her forehead.  "You did well, no doubt.  I'm off to Jameson's.   Anyone need anything?"

"I'm starving.  I could use some food," interjected Ari.  "I hope there's something to eat."

"I can't help you with that.  You're on your own."  Albert disappeared.

"I will whip up something for us," said Xavier.

Meanwhile, Rose and Mrs. Steers went into the front parlor and sat down on the couch.

"Now what?" said Rose.

"I'm thinking we need to..."  Mrs. Steers was stopped by someone ringing the doorbell.

It was Emily.

"Mrs. Steers, have you seen Sam? I can’t find him anywhere." She nervously fiddled with the buttons on her sweater.

"I can’t say that I have." Mrs. Steers led Emily to the front parlor. "Oh, Rose, this is Sam’s Mom, Emily."

Rose got up. "Nice to meet you.  Your boy is such a sweetheart."

Despite her kindness, Emily didn’t pay close attention to Rose’s compliment. "I can’t find Sam. He’s not home. I’ve called the library. I've called Bon's.  He’s not there. You’re sure he’s not with you here?"

Mrs. Steers took quick action. "Rose, you check the upstairs." Out in the hallway, Ari was on his way to the parlor.  Mrs. Steers questioned them.  "Have you seen Sam?"  Ari shook his head.

Standing in the front parlor, Emily teared up. "If he’s not here, then... I’ve got to call the police."  She reached for the nearby telephone.

"Wait," said Mrs. Steers, stopping Emily. "Let's not panic.  Let me think first. Rose, get me a glass of water."

Mrs. Steers grabbed a wooden box on a side table.  From inside, she pulled out a glass vile of a reddish liquid.  Mrs. Steers mixed it in the glass of water Rose had brought from the kitchen.

"Here Emily, please drink this. It will calm your nerves, then we can call the police."

"What is it?" Emily studied the liquid.

"It’s just a little brandy. Trust me."

Emily drank it and scrunched her face. "Yuck. It doesn't taste like brandy."

Mrs. Steers glanced at Ari with a "be ready" look. Emily began to sway, then nodded off. Ari grabbed her as she fell to the side, helping her onto the couch.

"Oh, I did hate doing that to her, poor dear." Mrs. Steers rung her hands. "I just hate using that stuff. But for the moment, it’s for the best."

Rose had come back into the parlor, looking down at Emily. "I didn’t bother looking upstairs. I’m already ahead of you. The Doctor, yes?"

"I’m sure of it. They’ve got him. I don’t know how, but I..."

Before she could finish, Xavier spoke up. "I know. Look at this."

Xavier held up the note. "I saw this on the back-parlor floor and didn’t think anything of it. But it’s a note signed 'Mrs. S' instructing Sam to come to Baltimore in 1848."

Taking the note, Mrs. Steers gasped after reading it. "That’s not my writing. I never use ‘Mrs. S’. Poor Sam was tricked. Someone left this note for him."

 Mrs. Steers began to pace in a circle.  "Sam was interested in Poe. What are we going to do?"

Xavier took control. "We need to organize. Lottie, you get Albert. Ari and Rose, you get Trenda. I am going to get Uncle Griff. Both Albert and Uncle Griff have been in the Doctor's house.  If we’re going after the Doctor to get Sam, back, we’re going to need all the help we can get. Let’s meet back here in fifteen minutes."

Everyone stared at Xavier, surprised by this sudden display of leadership.  A trait that Xavier didn't show much.

Ari saluted.

Everyone disappeared, leaving Emily asleep on the sofa.

The Time Travelers' Club: Chapter 72 -- Sam's Mom

At that moment, Vincent came into the room.  He grinned at Sam, then bent down and whispered something in Dr. Herkeimer's ear. The Doctor raised his eyebrows.

"Aha, that is interesting news. We might be able to use her to our benefit." The Doctor got up. "You remain here, Mr. Henry. Don't bother to try and escape. The house is well guarded. Besides, we have a surprise for you."

Vincent had walked back to the open door with the Doctor right behind him.

Just as he was leaving, Dr. Herkeimer turned. "My dear Mr. Henry, I am sure that you will be willing to talk soon. But first, we'll talk to your Mother."

The Doctor banged the door shut. The lock clicked. Without hesitation, Sam ran over to the door and tried the knob. It didn't budge. He pressed his ear against the door. There was silence on the other side.

Sam tried once again the spell that took him home, but it didn't work.

"Why isn't working?  I've got to get Mrs. Steers."   Sam tried the spell two more times with no success.

Glancing around the room, he ran over to the drapes.  The windows behind them were locked.  He moved to the other side of the room near the doors.  He tried the windows on that side of the room.  They were locked, too.  Just as he was about the check the last one, he heard loud voices in the hall.  He ran back over to listen.

On the other side, he could hear his Mom's voice in a broken conversation. Dr. Herkeimer's mumbled voice could be heard between her responses.

"Yes, I'm Emily Henry."

A muffled voice spoke.

"My son is Sam. Is he here?"

The muffled voice spoke again.

"I don't know what you're talking about."

The muffled voice became clear.  It was the Doctor.  "You know what I am talking about.   You will give me the information otherwise your precious boy will.   I have my ways."

Sam heard a loud slap. A woman screamed, followed by a heavy thump on the floor.

"That's for not telling me what I want know," said Dr. Herkeimer.

Sam grabbed and pulled on the unmoving knob, struggling to pull open the door. He became frantic and yelling.

"Let me out! Don't you dare hurt my Mom!"

Without notice, there was a heavy bang on the door. "Quiet in there," said Bruno. "We'll be back to you."

Slaps, screams, cries, and raised voices continued out in the hall.

Sam stepped back from the door and started crying. Eventually, he crumbled to the floor.

On the other side of the door, Dreda silently faked a laugh, holding her hands over her mouth.  Dr. Herkeimer paced a few steps back and forth.

"Do you think it worked?"  Dreda whispered, snickering.  "I think I did a great imitation of his dear old Mum."

Despite her participation, Dreda thought to herself how much she hated the play-acting she had to do, keeping the Doctor thinking she was on his side.  I can't believe I am doing this.  This is unfair.   I must keep pretending.

"You did fine," said the Doctor.  "We will check on him later.  I will break his spirit first before moving to his mind."

The Time Travelers' Club -- Chapter 71: Meeting the Doctor

 Tinean plopped Sam down on the a black-leather sofa.

"Stay there," commanded Tinean, pointing at him.  "The Doctor will be with you shortly.  And don't even try any incantations.  They won't work in here."  Tinean hissed.

Sam looked up at him.  The overhead chandelier reflected on Tinean's glass eye.  It shimmered in the light like a diamond.  Sam couldn't help but stare at it.  He then noticed the tattoo on the back of his left arm.   A series of letters and symbols ran in a row from his inner elbow down to his wrist.

Tinean helped himself to some wine on a table.  Avoiding the use of a glass, he removed the stopper and drank directly from the decanter.  Wiping his mouth on the nearby curtain, Tinean let out an obnoxious belch.  Sam was grossed out by him.

Sam watched Tinean stagger to the door and slammed the door behind him.

Sam stood up and immediately said the incantation that would take him home.  "Domum me."  Then he said it again, and again.  Nothing happened.

"Guess he was right."  Sam sat back down, feeling the slick upholstery of the sofa.  It sat in front of a wide fireplace. Sam could feel the rolling heat from the blazing fire.

Sam got up and roamed around the room. 

The chairs were in the same leather and had shiny metal legs and arms.  Abstract paintings hung on the walls.  Their human subjects had been twisted and distorted in wild and vivid colors.  The round carpet filled the largest part of the center of the floor.   Pure white marble flooring lined the outskirts of the room.

By the fireplace sat a towering high-back chair, upholstered in deep blue velvet.  At the top, Sam could see a carved face of a scowling man along the top crest.  Its white eyes looked real and glared brightly down at him.  They seemed to follow him as he backed away from the chair.

Nearby, Sam spotted a red painted wooden chest about the size of a toy box.  It had a metal plate on top with the engraved monogram "U.G.H." Sam opened the heavy lid.  Inside was a wrapped present in aged green paper and faded blue bow.  Sam started to reach down to touch it.

"Do not touch that," came a voice from behind him.

Sam let go of the lid and it slammed closed.  Looking around the room, Sam didn't see anyone.

From behind a black velvet curtain, opposite the door where Tinean left, emerged a stately, well-groomed gentleman.   He reminded Sam of a character from an Edward Gorey picture story he had read at the library.

"It is impolite to snoop while in someone else's house."

Sam's bravery hit a new high.  "Yeah, well, it's also impolite to kidnap someone."

Dr. Herkeimer raised his eyebrows and grinned.  "Touché, my dear lad.  Allow me to introduce myself.  I am Dr. Herkeimer.   I hope you weren't too roughed up. Tinean can be obnoxious."  His voice was calm, steady, and pronounced.

"I'm fine," said Sam, studying the Doctor.

"That is good to hear."

"Why does that box have "ugh." on the top?"  Sam pointed at the silver plaque on the lid.

Walking to the chest, the Doctor pushed Sam away and ran his hand across the plaque.  "Those are my initials."

"Your initials spell 'ugh'?"

The Doctor responded in angry tone.  "Yes, my initials spell 'ugh.' What of it?"  His face had turned red.

"Nothing," said Sam, stepping back.  "Just asking."  He stared at the Doctor, pushing himself against the arm of the sofa. "Just asking, that's all."

"Please, sit down and let's get to know one another."  The Doctor pointed to the sofa Sam was leaning against.

Dr. Herkeimer sat down in his towering high-back chair.  As Sam moved to sit down on the sofa across from the Doctor, the entire bust seemed to move.   The whole head turned to watch Sam.   Sam was mesmerized.  It appeared to broaden its grin.

"Is that face up there watching me?"

Smugly, Doctor Herkeimer leaned back and folded his hands in his lap.  He grinned, only saying one word.  "Perhaps."

Sam sat down across from the Doctor.  "Why am I..."

"I'll ask the questions," snapped the Doctor.

"You are the one.   The one that idiot woman chose to join their group.  Steers must be desperate for members if she's recruiting young boys."

Sam was angered by the words "that idiot woman" and rose to her defense.  "She is..."  Once again, he was stopped.

"Boy, don't try my patience.   I will state just one last time.  I will ask the questions."

"I wasn't going to ask one," said Sam.

Dr. Herkeimer glared at him, then breathed deeply and relaxed.   Sam didn't know the Doctor that well, only from stories the others had told him, but at least he was holding his temper.

"Your name is Samuel Henry.   You are the son of George and Emily Henry.  Your Father died. You and your Mother moved earlier this year.  Your Mother works at the library.  You have relatives in New York City.  You are eleven.  Steers has selected you to be the keeper of the books."

Sam looked puzzled.  "Keeper?  And how did you know..."  Sam stopped himself in fear of risking an outburst from the Doctor.

"Don't play dumb with me, boy.  The books.   Namvelt's books.  You are the one to keep them.   Why else would you be living with her?   Steers has chosen you to be...  what do they call them?"  The Doctor leaned forward in his chair.  "Ah, the fall guy."

Sam wondered what that meant. He couldn’t leave using the incantation.  He then realized nobody knew where he was. He had to buy time and figure out a method of escape. Hopefully, someone would realize he was missing. Mrs. Steers would alert the others and they would find him.

The Time Travelers' Club: Chapter 70 -- Poe

 Edgar released the doctor's arm, his hand dropped down onto the bed, and made one last comment before he went silent and exhaled.

Sam heard the words perfectly from where he was standing.   "Hmmm...  That's an interesting thing to say."

"Edgar?  Can you hear me?"  The doctor shook Edgar several time, but no movement came.  He felt Edgar's neck for a pulse.    Edgar Allan Poe was dead.  Outside, somewhere, a bell tolled five times.

The other two men in the doorway wore dark suits and hats.   Sam thought they looked like undertakers.  One remained in the doorway; while the other went to the foot of the bed.  Both watching and waiting for the doctor.

The men took off their hats.  The one at the end of the bed spoke first.  "Edgar Allan Poe is dead.  Such a sad day for literature."

Stunned, Sam walked up next to the doctor and looked down at Edgar's face.

Sam teared up, wishing that he had paid closer attention.   "Mr. Poe, I really liked your stories."

The doctor pulled the sheet up over Poe's face, then turned to leave.  He paused to pat his forehead with a handkerchief, then walked over to the man in the doorway.  Sam thought he was going to speak to him, but instead he walked right through him and out into the hall.

Sam's eyes got wide.  Before he could move or speak, the man in the doorway grabbed him, holding him tight with one hand over Sam's mouth.

"We've got you now, boy!  Don't bother to struggle or yell.  No one's coming for you."

The other one pulled a white piece of cloth from his pocket and tied it over Sam's mouth, then grabbed his wrists and tied them with rope.

Sam recognized him.  From the great hall of the Temple of Dendur at the Metropolitan Museum in New York City.  It was Vincent.  Now it became clear. He was being watched, lured here to be kidnapped.

"Well Tinean, the Doctor will be very pleased."  With a tight hold on Sam, Tinean was unprepared for a blow to the shin.  Sam kicked him hard and tried to run.  Unable to untie his hands, Sam staggered down the hall, trying to push the cloth out of his mouth.  Right behind him, Vincent reached out grabbing Sam, but toppled off to one side.

From his belt, Tinean pulled off a whip.  With a single crack, the whip was wrapped around Sam's ankles.  Sam fell to the floor.  Before he could move, Tinean grabbed him.

"You little bastard."  Tinean raised a hand to slap Sam, but Vincent grabbed his wrist.

"No. I won't allow that.  You never strike a child."  Vincent stood up to Tinean and pulled Sam closer, away from Tinean.   "The Doctor's instructions were clear.  Unharmed.  We are to bring the boy back unharmed."

Tinean glared at Vincent, then Sam.   Relaxing a little, Tinean composed himself, recoiled his whip, and straightened his overcoat.

"Very well, but be warned, boy.  Do that again and I'll cut you."   Tinean pulled out a short machete from the holster strapped to his leg.

"Behave," said Vincent, staring at Tinean.  "Fine. Let's be off.  This means we'll have to carry him."

Tinean hoisted the bound and gagged Sam over his left shoulder.  Once again, Sam had found himself being carried.   The last time, Ari had done so while running through the alleys of Whitechapel, and now Sam was being carried off to Dr. Herkeimer.

And now a moment with the author...

Dear reader,

I took a very short break for the Labor Day weekend and am back in the writer's seat.  I hope you are enjoying Book Two of The Time Travelers' Club.  I wrote my books several years ago and never really pursued getting them published.  There are three, making a trilogy.  Book Two is almost over.  There are only a few more chapters.  And then starts Book Three.

But back to my original thought for this post...  I will be posting several chapters this week, so keep an eye out....  

CSM

The Time Travelers' Club: Chapter 69 -- Edgar

The week passed quickly.  Sam got a perfect score on his report about Cleopatra.  Now, he had math homework.

"Sam, I'm going to run to the store," said Emily.  "I forgot to stop and pick up stuff for the party at work tomorrow.  Do your homework.  I'll be back shortly.  Why they chose to do cheese is beyond me."

Sam yelled from his room.  "Do you want me to let Mrs. Steers know I'm home alone?  I need some books for class anyway."

Emily came back with her usual response.  "Sure.  If she's busy, don't bother her. Promise me."

Sam went into the laundry room, but the door was locked.  "Hmmm..."

"I promise."  Sam followed his Mom down the stairs.  As she walked down the sidewalk, he waved then knocked on Mrs. Steers' door.   It popped open a few inches from the pressure of his knock.  Sam tried to look through the crack but could only see the wall.

"Mrs. Steers? Are you home?"   There was no answer.  Sam turned to see if his Mom was still in eye shot, but she had already disappeared around the corner.

Sam pushed the door open slowly and stepped in.  "Hello? Mrs. Steers?”

Still no answer.  Sam glanced into the dining room then into the front parlor. The doors were open to the back parlor, but no one was there. Sam spied a note on the coffee table.  It had his name in bold letters written on it. 

Sam -- We've gone to Baltimore to investigate a possible lead to the location of another copy of the book. Please come to this location -- October 9, 1849, Baltimore, Washington College Hospital on Broadway and Fayette Street at 4:30 in the morning.  When you get there, go to the room on the second floor of the left tower in the hospital.  Here's your big chance to try the incantation. Mrs. S.

Sam got excited.  He could go and be back before his Mom ever made it to the store.

"This is awesome.  Mrs. Steers must have changed her mind."

Without hesitation, he ran to the back parlor, sat in his chair, and within a few moments, found himself standing in a vast green space in front of a stone building which looked like an old fortress.  It was dark, except for light coming from gas lamps in front of the building and some from the windows.  Through the darkness, Sam made out a group of trees to his left and a wrought iron fence to his right.

"This place looks more like a prison," said Sam.  The six-story building rose up with two square towers making up the left side of the building, while the right section of the building had a cupola on top.

Sam looked at the left tower.  The windows were grouped in threes.  He counted up.

"One... Two..."  A light flickered in a window.  "That must be the one."

Sam had successfully accomplished the first part of his instructions.  His confidence soared.  He had been trusted enough to come by himself.  He arrived on time.  And last, he was on his way to the designated rendezvous.

Sam used the transition incantation to go to the second floor.  Sam found himself in a scarcely furnished hallway. The plaster walls were plain.  Candles and gas lamps lit the hallway. The wooden floor was clean and painted white.

"Let's see..." Sam looked out a nearby window.  He could see the group of trees now to his right and the fence now on the left.

"That's the yard where I just was.  So, the towers are those rooms."

Sam peered through an open door.  "Great, there are three windows just like I saw.   So, then that door must be the one."   Sam pointed at the next door to his left.  Tiptoeing to the door in hopes of surprising them, he raced into the room.

"Hey everyone!  I'm here."

A flamed burned bright from the oil lamp on a small side table.  A gaunt man with a mustache and small goatee lay on a wood framed bed, covered with a white blanket.  His cheeks sunken.  His brow covered in sweat.

"Reynolds...," moaned the man.  "Must find Reynolds..."

Freaked out, Sam backed up against the plaster wall.   Sam watched him as he tossed and turned under the blankets.

There was no sign of Mrs. Steers or anyone else from the club.

"Reynolds... Must find Reynolds..."

Sam turned to leave, when three men entered the room.  Sam backed up against the wall again in order to avoid being walked through.  One man went directly to the patient.   Sam assumed he was the doctor.  The other two stayed in the doorway.

"What are you saying Edgar?  How did this happen?"  The doctor leaned over him.

Shaking, Edgar looked up at him.

"Doctor...  Reynolds..."  Tossing his head back and forth, Edgar grabbed the doctor's arm.  "Find Reynolds..."

"Reynolds?  Who is Reynolds?"  The doctor put his hand to Edgar's chest, trying to calm him.

Sam looked at Edgar.  "I recognize you now.  I've read your stories. You're Edgar Allan Poe."