Golden Torment

by Janelle Taylor

Genres: Historical Romance

Synopsis

Bestselling author Janelle Taylor's stories ring with fiery passion and thrilling adventure. This sensual and compelling romance carries on that tradition in the icy wilderness of Alaska where a tempestuous beauty and a rugged lumberjack discover a love hot enough to melt the frozen tundra.

Release date: October 24, 2011

Publisher: Zebra Books

Print pages: 612

Sample

September, 1897

The steamship Victoria was sailing a hazardous course from Seattle to Skagway. As with most ships which made this voyage up the Inside Passage to that beckoning land of golden promise, the vessel was packed with goldobsessed men. The Victoria crew was experienced, pleased with a leader who knew these treacherous waters as well as the lines on his weather-crinkled hands. But this particular voyage included two passengers who inspired amusement and intrigue: two lovely and daring females, a young widow with vivid red hair and a striking blonde of eighteen.

Captain Cyrus Shurling had taken the women under his wing for protection from the rowdy men who flooded his lower decks with their piles of gear. But Shurling’s motive was hardly unselfish; he wished to avoid any trouble which might stain his presently spotless record.

To Captain Shurling, it seemed absurd for two women to be heading for Alaska, especially since they were not going there to become saloon girls. Everyone wondered what two attractive and gentle females could do in that lonely, perilous location. Shurling had decided it was not his place to judge their motives or to prevent their trip. But after last night’s fiasco, he wished he had refused them passage! A smart captain should have realized two single women aboard a ship of tense and bored men spelled trouble!

It was beyond the duty-minded, reserved Shurling to comprehend why men would turn their backs on civilization and their families to blindly rush to this land of golden torment. Shurling labelled them idiots to believe that hogwash in the newspapers which colorfully painted an idealistic image of Alaska. The men he transported to this frozen Hades sounded as if they expected to fill their empty pockets on the first day! Shurling sneered, if they knew only the half of it!

The stories cruelly and deceptively omitted the bleak realities of the rigorous conditions there: the frustrations, the tragedies, the disillusionments, the backbreaking work, and the meager triumphs. None seemed aware of the ultimate price for willfully seeking that golden illusion. None admitted to the unspeakable horrors which these jaundice-eyed men would soon confront and endure. None spoke of the thousands who lost all hope and withered away or eventually returned home haggard and embittered men. Alaska did not honestly sing out for brave and hardy men; she provocatively trilled her mesmerizing song to fools and dreamers too enchanted to resist it.

Harriet Pullen’s eyes scanned the comfortable stateroom she was sharing with the striking female who was asleep. This particular cabin had allowed them to travel in relative safety and serenity, along with the eagle eye of the captain. A smile tugged at the corners of her wide mouth as she studied Kathryn Hammond, recalling how this vivacious and charming creature had generously tricked her into accepting a five-hundred-dollar cabin for one-hundred-fifty dollars.

The smile was quickly replaced by a worried scowl as Harriet wondered how she would ever repay her, for surely Kathy realized she was not a person to accept charity. Harriet was proud and stubborn, a woman quickly learning to take care of her own problems and to control her own destiny.

Harriet walked over to Kathy’s bunk and glanced down at her silky head. Kathy had no relatives; she had left no close friends in Seattle. Sadness gripped Harriet’s heart as she prayed it would not take long to earn enough money to send for her precious children, left behind out of necessity. Now, the future of this vulnerable, green girl was also in her workworn hands; these responsibilities weighed heavily as Harriet bravely sought to earn more than a meager existence in America.

Harriet’s mind was trapped in a vicious turmoil. Did she have the right to lead a mourning girl into danger? Harriet wished she knew the truth about Jake Hammond, Kathy’s father. How could a father walk away from his property and child and never glance back? She couldn’t imagine her departed husband diseased with gold fever.

Suspicions teased at Harriet’s mind concerning the many things Dorothy Hammond had insinuated during their brief friendship. Why had Dory unwittingly mentioned her sable-haired love with dark eyes, when Kathy dreamed of seeing her father’s golden head and blue eyes? Harriet shook her head to halt her mental meandering.

Harriet’s solace was in the fact Kathy would have her friendship, protection, and guidance. Protection, she mentally scoffed. She had been of no help during Kathy’s recent encounter with that lecherous Marc Slavin, first mate on this ship bulging with gold-crazed men.

Harriet’s hand stretched out to stroke Kathy’s tawny head as she sighed heavily in despair. Annoyance and remorse filled Harriet as she recalled how Kathy had rushed to their cabin in near hysterics after that man had assailed her on the upper deck last night. But to have Captain Shurling imply Kathy had misled him was an outrage, even if Kathy was a beautiful stranger and Marc an officer!

“Kathy…Kathy, it’s time to get up,” Harriet called her from her deep slumber, gently shaking her shoulder. “The bell will sound any moment for breakfast, dear. Well be arriving today,” she blurted out excitedly, hardly able to control her tension and suspense.

Kathy rubbed heavy lids which drooped sleepily over cornflower blue eyes. She sat up groggily, confused. As her sight touched on the flaming-haired woman towering over her, reality promptly returned.

Was she actually on a steamship heading for the wilds of Alaska in search of a father she couldn’t even recall? Kathy gazed at the handsome woman poised near her bunk. Whatever would she have done without Harriet Pullen? No fate could be worse than hers: to be left widowed and destitute with four small children to raise. But Harriet was a stout-hearted woman who possessed the courage to head to another land at age thirty-seven with only seven dollars in her pocket! When compared to Harriet, her troubles were scant. That is, if Kathy didn’t include Marc Slavin on her list!

“You go on ahead, Harriet. I can’t face that scoundrel again,” Kathy declined, shaking her head.

“Don’t be silly, child. I doubt he’ll even be present this morning. The captain won’t take kindly to trouble this close to his destination. Besides, Shurling said food was scarce and expensive. We’d better fill up on this free fare before we dock,” Harriet coaxed to lighten the anxiety in this delightful girl with entreating eyes and a trusting air.

“You honestly don’t think Marc Slavin will be present this morning?” she watched Harriet closely.

“You said Shurling ordered him to steer clear of you for the rest of this voyage. Even if he’s as mad as a wet hen, hell obey the captain’s orders,” Harriet gently reasoned, although unsure of her own confidence in the captain’s power over that persistent man.

“I don’t know…,” Kathy replied hesitantly. “Marc Slavin has a mind of his own, an evil one!” she added. “The captain told him to be my guard and escort. I don’t understand. He’s been such a gentleman. Did you know he’s married? I couldn’t believe my hearing last night; he suddenly vowed he loved me and wanted to marry me. When I rebuffed him, he tried to ravish me! He’s cruel and dangerous!”

From her own observations, Harriet knew Kathy was not exaggerating. Marc Slavin was handsome and wealthy; he was devious and arrogant. Men like Marc were beguiling and courteous until they were ready to strike at some unsuspecting and susceptible female who had caught their fancy. Harriet thought it best not to overly worry Kathy with her concerns. Slavin’s proposal had been a cunning ruse, since he had attacked her and even threatened to trap her below at the mercy and lust of those rough men: many of them fleeing criminals! But this precarious situation would be over soon…

“Just let him say one word to you and I’ll box his ears!” the older woman shrieked, aware of her own fiery temper and resolve.

“If anyone can put him in his place, it’s you, Harriet. Why should I let that fiend imprison me in our cabin?” she vowed, her shaky voice and wary expression belying her brave words.

Kathy threw the covers aside and stood up, yawning and stretching her shapely frame like a graceful feline awakening from a catnap. Harriet jested playfully, “If I had your beautiful face and figure, I wouldn’t have to worry about earning a living; I could find droves of men eager to support us. Use them wisely, dear; they’re powerful weapons,” she advised as Kathy hurriedly dressed.

“You aren’t sorry you came along with me, are you?” Harriet unexpectedly inquired, her expression and mood serious. “I did take advantage of you in a moment of weakness and distress,” she added, nervously pushing some straying curls from her flushed face.

Kathy smiled at her. “How else can I discover the truth if I don’t track it down? If not for you, I couldn’t have survived these last weeks. You didn’t twist my arm, Harriet,” she asserted, a spark of her old spirit returning.

As Harriet mulled over those words, Kathy’s gaze wandered over her from flaming head to foot. Harriet wasn’t a hefty female, but she was large and firm. Her skin was very pale, as was natural for a woman with her coloring. Kathy cheerfully concluded, if anyone could survive and prosper in intimidating Alaska, it was Harriet.

As Kathy completed her task, images from the past flashed before her. She could not forget the art exhibit she had viewed in San Francisco two years ago which had shown the dangers and hardships of this dreamland. She envisioned the blond-haired friend who had shared that impressive moment with her, who was intensely infatuated with her beautiful mother. She should write him with the news of her mother’s death. For two years, his letters had arrived, his affections for her mother increasing with time. She wondered how this fatal news would affect Jack London. They had shared so many good times; he was the brother she never had. She missed him and wondered where the carefree wanderer was; his last letter months ago had sounded sad and mysterious. But this wasn’t the time to handle that problem. Soon, she would be viewing those frightening sites in person. Alaska…even the sound of that word was intimidating—but strangely compelling.

Kathy closed the trunk which held most of her possessions and the heavy clothing she had purchased for the North Country. Being the point from which most people left for “Seward’s Icebox,” Seattle was well stocked with the necessary garments and supplies for the severely cold climate of the glacial frontier. Between the storekeeper and Harriet, Kathy had bought and packed everything she would need for a lengthy voyage and an indeterminable sojourn in Skagway. Kathy’s plans called for her to allow two months to locate her errant father, then to return to the United States before the worst weather arrived, or her money ran out. The thought of being stranded in that awesome territory until spring didn’t suit Kathryn Leigh Hammond at all.

Jake Hammond…no matter how many times Kathy had vowed to hate him and to ignore his existence, she desperately needed to meet him and to speak with him at least once. Until she heard his side of this tormenting tale, she could never find peace of mind. Fresh waves of anguish washed over Kathy as she wondered what her life and personality would be like if her father had never left home. Why was she truly heading for Alaska? Revenge? Justice? Truth? She was so confused that she honestly didn’t know.

Harriet locked their door before they headed for their last breakfast on the Victoria. Sure enough, Marc Slavin was noticably absent. Kathy still remained apprehensive during the meal, fully expecting him to swagger in at any moment, wearing a taunting smirk. She hardly noticed the fragrant coffee, the cat’s-head biscuits, the country ham, or the deep red gravy.

Kathy ate as quickly as she could. Afterwards, the two women returned to their cabin to pack. Taking a last bath and pulling on warmer clothing, the morning passed swiftly and uneventfully. When the luncheon bell rang out, it was two hours to docking time. Excitement wafted over the ship like a strong breeze from the nearby mountains which lined the Inside Passage. Noises from the boisterous group below gained volume as they neared their destination.

Marc Slavin did not appear at the captain’s table. Kathy halted before thanking Shurling, wisely concluding it would be best to ignore the offensive affair. As did Harriet, the captain suggested they eat hardily. This last meal was delicious. They slowly devoured the baked ham with its honey glaze, the steaming corn-sticks, the blackeyed peas, the fluffy rice, and the apple cobbler.

The voyage nearly over, Captain Shurling was in high spirits, savoring his new accomplishment. He served a heady red wine to toast their success, stating, “To the prettiest ladies I’ve ever transported to Seward’s Icebox. May all your dreams be shiny ones, and may you never experience any golden torments.”

Both women thanked him, beaming with anticipation. Shurling invited them to join him in the wheelhouse to witness the impressive sights and to hear his informative narration. He thought it best not to tell them he simply wanted them safely out of the way when they docked. The men below were getting raucous and anxious. Crude talk was flowing as swiftly as the Lynn Canal. In the greenhorns’ eagerness to get ashore, the ladies could get in their way and be injured, so Captain Shurling had decided to keep them aboard until all of the men had departed. He turned to Harriet and asked to speak privately with her in his cabin.

The two women exchanged wary looks. “Is it important, sir? I should accompany Kathy back to our cabin,” Harriet remarked softly, clearly alluding to last night’s trouble.

Annoyed at this reminder, Shurling asserted, “We’ll walk her to the door. There’s a matter I must discuss with you before you leave the ship.” He sounded persistent.

“Kathy? Is that all right with you?” Harriet inquired. Her eyes and tone of voice revealed concern for her youthful companion.

“Certainly. I still have some things to do,” Kathy replied uneasily, pondering Shurling’s curious behavior.

Waiting just down the hallway, Harriet and Shurling lingered until the door was opened and Kathy turned to wave them goodbye.

Kathy entered the square room and closed the door, locking it. Just as she leaned against the door to sigh in relief, a large hand clamped over her mouth. She found herself imprisoned in the steely embrace of Marc Slavin. Pressed tightly against the sealed entrance, she stared at him through terror-filled eyes.

Marc’s green eyes were brittle and piercing. His jaw was taut; his teeth were clenched. A savage sneer curled up the corners of his full mouth. His body was hard and lean; there was no hope for escape.

Kathy was in a panic; she could not think clearly or reason calmly. She strained to breathe, for his hand was almost blocking her nose. Never had she been this frightened or helpless, not even when her life changed so drastically with her mother’s sudden death.

Marc’s sardonic gaze slipped to her throat and watched her throbbing pulse as it revealed her terror. His glacial eyes fused with hers, his salacious intent clearly displayed there. He exuded a soul-chilling aura as he asserted, “The captain sends his regards, love. He said I was to bid you farewell while he does the same with your friend. Surely you didn’t think we could allow your insult to pass unpunished? We simply didn’t want any interference from the other passengers who are presently too preoccupied to notice anything happening aboard this ship. Nice to have privacy,” he informed the rigid girl in a frosty tone.

She struggled, trying vainly to pull free or at least to reason with him. He would permit neither. “Time is very short, love; I’ll be needed top-side soon. Shall we finish what we began last night?” he calmly suggested, leering at her.

Kathy futilely struggled again as Slavin merely laughed. Pinning her against the hard surface at her back, he gagged her. Just as she was about to claw his taunting face, he cruelly seized her wrists and squeezed them. Kathy grimaced and moaned; tears sprang to her eyes. Marc grabbed her trembling chin and put pressure on it, causing her to wince in pain.

Marc warned in an icy tone, “Behave yourself or you might get hurt! You owe me, Kathy; and I fully intend to be paid before you leave this ship. No woman rejects me or humiliates me!”

As he pulled her resisting body toward the bunk, she tried to stall. He chuckled devilishly as he easily lifted her and carried her the short distance. She squirmed as he casually tossed her on the bunk, then fell atop her before she could roll off the other side.

Slavin captured Kathy’s thrashing head between his hands and held it motionless. “Such a little tigress,” he murmured huskily, as he rolled her to her side and fumbled with the zipper down the back of her dress.

Once down, Marc began to yank the dress over her shoulders, exposing their creamy texture and her stark white undergarments. Kathy desperately wiggled and made muffled noises which drew amused chuckles from him. He pulled the dark green ribbon from her tawny hair and bound her hands with it. He was quickly out of his shirt, tossing it to the floor beside the bunk. He slipped her bound hands over his head and shoulders. “That should hold you for a while,” he lightly remarked, savoring the contact of their naked flesh. “I assume you’ve never made love to a man; so, be good, love, if you want me to be gentle with you.”

Kathy moved her hands to dig her nails into the smooth muscles of his back. Caught by surprise, Marc cried out in pain. Seizing her hair, he yanked forcefully, calling an instant halt to her brave attack. “You little spitfire!” he snarled, teeth bared like a wild animal and eyes blazing in fury. “You’ll regret that. If it’s pain you want, I can certainly oblige you,” he threatened ominously.

Too late, Kathy realized the danger in her desperate action. Where are you, Harriet? she silently questioned. Had Shurling lured Harriet away to assist this terrible crime? God, help us both…

Angered and rushed, Marc jerked savagely at her clothing. Suddenly a loud knock shattered the silence of the stateroom. Her frantic gaze riveted in that direction. Marc clamped his hand over her mouth. He softly growled a warning, “Stay silent, Kathy, or you’ll be fatally sorry.”

The knocking became louder and more insistent. Kathy felt new hope. Then, doubting she could be heard even if she dared defy this violent man, she closed her eyes and wept. Help was so close, and yet so far away. Whoever was there would soon leave when she failed to answer, and she never doubted Marc would carry out his threat.

Without warning, the door was kicked open. In stormed an enraged Captain Shurling, several startled crewmen, and a furious Harriet. Kathy felt confusion and relief as she stared blankly at the group, gaping incredulously at her and Marc.

Witnessing what had taken place, Harriet rushed past the astonished men and angrily attacked Marc Slavin. She beat on his back and pulled his brown hair; she pinched his arms and cheeks. She screamed at him, “You filthy animal! You rutting beast! How dare you assault an innocent child! You should be horse-whipped!”

One man pulled Harriet from the stunned Marc and restrained her. Shurling glared at his blatantly guilty first officer and the bound girl. “You filthy scum! I’ll have you disgraced for this offense! Untie her, Hiram. See if she requires the doctor’s attentions. Tim, you and Pete take this slime to the brig. I’ll deal with him shortly. Just get him out of my sight before I toss him overboard to the sharks!”

Kathy was freed and then comforted by Harriet. The two men led the rebellious and sullen Marc out of the congested room. “Miss?” the freckle-faced Hiram inquired hesitantly of the half-dressed girl. “Are you injured, Miss? Should I fetch Doc Tanner?”

Harriet glared at Shurling. “Wait outside while I calm her and check her! She’s too upset to answer. If justice is to be done this time, Captain, you will throw that creature overboard!” she declared.

“I’m sorry this happened, ladies. I swear this is the first such disgrace on my ship. I’ll deal out a severe punishment to Mister Slavin. He’ll never sail on my ship or any other ship again,” he vowed.

“If you had heeded Miss Hammond’s words the first time, this new insult might have been prevented, sir. There is no excuse for allowing such an offense to take place a second time. I gravely question the safety of your ship and the wisdom of your command.” The nettled man in his crisp white uniform shifted from foot to foot. “I certainly hope he isn’t permitted to lie his way out of this vile episode. Surely it’s clear she is totally blameless. In my opinion, you owe Kathy an apology for doubting her yesterday.”

“You’re correct, Mrs. Pullen. I sincerely apologize for the unnecessary danger and embarrassing position I placed her in. I can promise this will never happen aboard my ship again.” ‘Cause I’ll never allow another troublesome female along, he added to himself.

Harriet focused her attention on the distressed girl as Shurling waited in the corridor. Before Harriet could soothe Kathy’s jumpy nerves, a man came to notify Shurling he was needed in the pilot-house. He stuck his head inside the room and stated briskly, “Sorry, Mrs. Pullen, but I must see to my ship and her course. These channels are highly treacherous. I’ll post a guard at your door. Send word if you require anything. Oh, yes,” he added as an afterthought, “stay here until I come back for you. Those greenhorns get rambunctious.”

The damaged door was pulled to as far as possible. The older woman looked down at Kathy. “Kathy, you must get control of yourself, child. We’ll be docking soon. Are you all right?” Harriet hoped the tone of her voice would calm her; it did not.

“I want to go home,” Kathy sobbed uncontrollably.

“You can’t, child. Your mother’s gone and your home was sold. You must find your father; he’ll protect you,” she encouraged the distraught girl.

“What does he care about me? I could be dead for all he knows! He doesn’t want me or need me!” she cried.

“But you need him, Kathy. Find him and listen to his side. How could he possibly deny such a lovely daughter who’s all alone now?” Harriet reasoned, hoping to soothe Kathy’s torment.

Kathy lifted tearful eyes to gaze at the concerned woman. “Do you honestly believe he might have some logical reason for what he did?” The hope in her eyes and voice touched Harriet deeply.

“Perhaps he does, Kathy. Learn the truth, then decide how you feel about him. He is your father, Kathy, good or bad,” she stated.

Kathy’s eyes scanned her scrapes and bruises, shuddering. “I said Marc Slavin was dangerous. How did he get into a locked room? How did he know I was alone?” she questioned, brushing away her tears.

“A crewman told Shurling that Slavin wasn’t in his cabin as ordered. Shurling discovered his master keys missing. He knew where the keys and Slavin would be. We came as quickly as we could,” she explained.

“Why did Shurling want to see you? Marc said the captain knew he was here with me. He even told me the captain was also taking his pleasure with you. If you hadn’t knocked the door down…”

Harriet placed her finger on Kathy’s quavering lips and shushed her. “Don’t dwell on this dreadful event. Shurling has him confined in the brig. He wanted to discuss what happened last night,” she replied to Kathy’s prior question. “He suspected Slavin had exaggerated the truth, but he didn’t wish to press the matter without proof. He wanted to know what you had confided to me,” Harriet replied reluctantly.

“I told you he didn’t believe me! Did you tell him everything?”

“After what he witnessed, he doesn’t have to question me! He was also concerned about our safety and welfare in Alaska,” she added.

“I hope you told him we’ll certainly be as safe there as on board his miserable ship!” she shrieked, her breathing ragged.

“Slavin gave him the proof he needed. The beast! I could strangle him myself! It’s a fact of nature, Kathy; a woman’s strength cannot compare to a man’s brute power. We must depend on our wits and courage.” She abruptly asked, “Do you know how to fire a pistol?”

Bewildered, Kathy replied, “Yes, but why?”

“I have two in my trunk. They belonged to my husband. I thought it wise to bring along some protection. I’ll give you one. It’s small and has its own holster. You can wear it under your parka.”

“Carry a gun on my person?” she questioned in astonishment.

“This is a wild and savage area. From what Shurling told me, very little law exists. Marc just proved how powerless we are against a man with superior strength and evil intent. A gun will even the odds. Another thing to consider: what about the protection of your money and property? Shurling said theft is quite common,” she blurted out before thinking, then wished she hadn’t spoken so bluntly.

“You make it sound so uncivilized, like straying into a den of wolves. I wish I were still in Seattle,” Kathy murmured.

“I’m sorry, Kathy. I shouldn’t have persuaded you to come with me. This isn’t a place for a young lady. If I had known anything like this would happen to you…” Tears clouded her eyes.

“No, Harriet,” she injected. “Please don’t blame yourself for this trouble. I’ll be fine after we dock. You’ll see,” she wistfully promised, forcing a smile. “We’ll both be fine,” she added.

“In a way, Kathy, I did trick you. I pounced on you like an old tomcat on a fieldmouse. I used your father as an excuse to entice you. I tried to make you feel obligated to find him. I’m truly sorry.”

“I hope you’ll be just as devious and successful in Alaska as you were in getting me here,” she jested to ease Harriet’s anguish. “Life is so complicated. I’ve always felt happy and safe. Now, I’m responsible for my existence and happiness; it’s petrifying. How could I blame you for not wanting to face this new challenge alone? We’ll make it, Harriet,” she vowed, defiance and pride filling her eyes.

Harriet concurred, then her tone became grave. “It’s really happening; we’ll be there before dark. It sounds crazy, but I’m happy and sad; I want to laugh and cry. Imagine, riches…a new life…”

Kathy tittered in suspense. “That’s how I feel. It’s such a drastic change. If we don’t like it, there’s another ship going home.”

“If it isn’t winter,” she refuted. “The channels and rivers are frozen solid. It’s make it by December, or be stranded until spring.”

“You’ll make it; have no doubts,” she complimented her friend.

“My poor babies…I wonder if they’re all right,” she fretted miserably.

“Just missing their mother and anticipating the day they can join her.”

Kathy bolted up straight. She cocked her head sideways and strained to hear. “Listen, Harriet! What’s all the shouting about?”

“Land!” Harriet squealed. “We’re here, Kathy! Alaska!”

In the contagious exuberance which surrounded her, Kathy conquered her doubts and fears. A heady sense of adventure ensnared her as Harriet coaxed, “Hurry, or we’ll miss the first view of Skagway!”

Kathy reminded, “Captain Shurling said to wait here. He’ll be angry if we disobey.” Soon, she would be safe from Marc…

The older woman scanned Kathy’s appearance and remarked softly, “Your hair and clothes are mussed, Kathy. We best get you fixed up a bit. Who knows, the first man you meet could be Jake Hammond…or your future husband,” she hinted to lighten the gravity of this moment.

New life washed over Kathy’s unblemished face and settled within her eyes. “You’re right. I must look my very best for this momentous occasion.” She changed clothes, pulling on a dress of lightweight wool in a rich sapphire shade, one which made her eyes appear even bluer. She brushed her hair and secured it with a matching blue ribbon.

Harriet placed the last item in Kathy’s valise and closed it. She looked up and smiled warmly, taking in her radiant appearance and striking beauty. “Stunning. Hell be so very proud of you, Kathy.”

“If I can find him, you mean,” Kathy absently corrected her older friend, pulling on black gloves to conceal the scratches on her hands.

“Ready?” Harriet inquired.

Kathy wavered, then decided, why not; Marc was in the brig.

Harriet pulled on the door and confronted the guard. “We want to go out on the deck and see the docking. Can you escort us?”

“The captain said to remain here, ladies,” he courteously replied.

“I know, but we’ll miss all the excitement. Please,” she wheedled. “We’ll have you to protect us,” she added to sway him.

“Only if you tell the captain I couldn’t stop you,” he reluctantly consented, wanting to please them and enjoy a last view of Kathy.

“Done! Let’s go,” Harriet exclaimed before he could think twice.

They walked down the lengthy hallway. “You mean it’s already nippy here in early September?” Harriet commented in astonishment.

“About forty-five degrees, ma’am. Once the sun goes down, the temperature drops fast. Up in the mountains there, it snows and freezes all year long. You have someone meeting you ashore?”

“No,” Harriet replied.

“What about a place to stay?” he fired another question at her.

“Not yet,” she responded, not the least disturbed.

He gaped at the two women in utter disbelief. He impertinently said before thinking, “Are you crazy? You came to a place like this without family or preparations? You’ll never survive!”

Kathy frowned at him. “You forget your place, sir!” she hastily admonished him. “Our personal affairs are none of your concern. You will kindly keep such opinions to yourself.”

“Sorry, miss. I was just shocked. Two ladies alone in a settlement like that,” he stressed, pointing toward the coastline. “Thousands of men and only a few tents! What food you can find costs a fortune! Where will you stay? Who’s gonna take care of you and protect you?”

“You mean there’s no hotel or boarding house?” Kathy asked.

“Nothing but tents and makeshift huts. Only three log cabins and they belong to wealthy men. No law to speak of either! The Yukon’s owned by Canada; that’s where most of the gold is found. Those men can’t pan until spring. They ain’t seen nothing yet until they discover they’ve got to fight their way over those glaciers! There’s days when the temperature doesn’t get above twenty below zero. Those arctic winds get so cold that it hurts to breathe. It’ll kill you!”

Stunned by his vivid description of this treacherous new land, Kathy disregarded his last remark to storm Harriet with questions, “Did you hear him? Did you know how terrible the conditions were up here?”

Harriet was mutely staring at the dismal shore. The young man went on, “It’s a hardship on most men, but two women alone…there’s fighting, stealing, people dying from hunger and cold, and tragedy at every turn. The only females around work in them fancy saloons in Dawson and Whitehorse, stealing the earnings of miners. You planning to live in Skagway or head on up into the Yukon Territory?’”

“Stay here,” Kathy murmured, without realizing she had spoken.

“That’s too bad. At least the Yukon has some form of law and order because of those Canadian Mounties. But this area’s still wild and unsettled! If you ever get into trouble, see if you can locate one of those Mounties. You can recognize them by their blue pants and bright red jackets. From what I hear, they fear no man and no danger,” he stated.

Kathy observed the awesome sight before her astonished eyes. The steamship was drifting almost silently through the royal blue water whose untroubled surface reflected the primitive landscape like a gigantic mirror. Skagway was snuggled between towering, snow-capped mountains on three sides and strikingly separated from those awesome mounds by a massive timberline of spruces, pines, and hemlocks. The Lynn Canal appeared a liquid blue street flowing to the only open angle to this impressive area. Portions of those steep slopes revealed obsidian rock formations which were a majestic blending of imposing gorges and tall peaks. It was a rugged and perilous region which would demand all the endurance and courage any man—or woman—had to offer.

The little settlement appeared dwarfed by its lofty surroundings; it sat before the snow-covered escarpments like a small, dark splotch of humanity boldly challenging blue-white Nature. The air was brisk, a noticeable dampness lacing it. Smoke curled from obscure campfires. Dense fog and a misty blue haze attested to the high humidity. But for the verdant evergreens, the area was harsh and desolate. Kathy’s wide gaze scanned the rock-bound strip of beach which was coming into sight.

The ship slowed, stopped, and dropped anchor. Three shrill blasts of her horn announced their arrival. Boats of varying sizes and descriptions dotted the shoreline. There was no landing dock. The area between the trees and water was cluttered with boxes, supplies, equipment of all kinds and sizes, men in tattered clothing, countless small tents, and three log cabins. The mass of humanity was a strange and disturbing sight. One haggard and dejected group sat around small fires as if utterly listless or totally exhausted. Many men looked weakened and emaciated, their faces and bearings revealing despair and desperation.

Yet, another smaller group was scurrying around as if the town was ablaze. They were warmly dressed and appeared healthy and happy. Kathy wondered at this startling contrast. Who were these men? What wretched existence had many faced here? How many wished they had never heard the words “gold” and “Alaska”?

The steamship was now bustling with excitement and ear-splitting noise. Men on the shore were waving and shouting to those on the ship, as if selfishly delighted to have others come and share their misery. The men on the ship were responding with overwhelming enthusiasm. Boats were forced into the deep blue water to head their way. Pushing and shoving for first place in line began immediately. Gear and supplies now cluttered the decks.

Suddenly a deathly silence settled over the entire ship. The men could not believe their eyes and senses as they realized what they were actually viewing: their final destination. They gaped at the tent-town, the frosttipped ridges, the awesome summits, the harshness of the land, and the pitiful men on the rocky strand. The only invasion of beauty on this intimidating setting was the pink reflection of the snow-capped mountains on the pearly surface of the water.

One tenderfoot furiously shouted, “There’s thousands of men here afore us! Won’t be no gold left! Look at them mountains and all that snow! Surely this ain’t where we land!”

Captain Shurling walked up, his annoyance with the two willful females visible. “This here’s the gateway to the Yukon, the end of the earth: Skagway. See that tallest peak up there,” he directed impassively, pointing to the White Pass. “That’s the trail over the mountains and glaciers to the Yukon Territory and the Klondike. If you’re after gold, that’s where it is.”

“You mean we don’t pan for gold here? We gotta go somewhere else? I been cheated!” one greedy man snarled.

Weary of this rough lot of men, Shurling irritably snapped, “Pan anywhere you please! But the gold strike is on the other side of those mountains, down the raging rapids of the Yukon River, and over about Dawson area. That’s where the claims office Fortymile is located and that’s where the Klondike is. It takes a lot of walking, some boating, and some mountain climbing. If you got the money and luck, you might find a dogsled or a boat. If not, it’s walking and building your own boats. Skagway is the entrance to the gold fields, not the termination point of your journey,” he declared.

Holding their full attention, Shurling continued with his narration. “There’s two ways to get to the Yukon Territory, which is part of Canada, not American Alaska,” he smugly informed the ignorant men. “You can take the northwesterly route over Chilkat Pass or you can take the northeasterly route over the White Pass. Both end up in Whitehorse and the distance is about the same. Both of ’em are dangerous and rugged. It’s a narrow path only wide enough for one man to walk at a time. To one side you got a slope of ice and on the other, a sheer drop into nowhere. A few hours up there and your feet won’t move and your hands can freeze. But if you don’t move on, you die right there. Lots of men don’t ever see Whitehorse or Dawson. I’ll be back in several weeks if any of you change your minds.” With that statement, he glanced at the two females nearby and smiled expectantly.

“This damn place is no more’n a dung heap!” One infuriated man growled, stomping the deck with a booted foot.

“It’s a freezing hell-hole if you asked me!” another stormed.

The talk and remarks quickly became crude and vulgar. Several men were swearing in disappointment and vexation. Another was spouting off angrily, “I spent my good money on a joke like this? Ain’t even fittin’ to piss on!” He balled a fist and shook it at Skagway.

“Cease this foul talk! Can’t you men see we have two ladies present?” the ruddy-faced captain shouted harshly above the noise.

“Ladies, Hell! Wouldn’t no ladies come to a stink-hole like this!” the first man snapped, nerves and patience frayed by the bleak reality before him, the monstrous cruelty of his tarnished golden dream.

“Silence, man, or you’ll be thrown in the brig until this ship is empty! The boats will be here soon to take you ashore. Line up in an orderly fashion,” he sternly commanded, his temper strained.

Rope ladders were tossed over the rails as the boats brushed along side the ship’s hull. Men dashed to be the first aboard, irritating the boatmen with their precarious attempts to overload their crafts. Gear and assorted goods were handed down and men scrambled over the rail into bobbing crafts. Before everyone could reach shore, it began to rain, a steady mist which soon dampened clothes and hair. The sun was dropping low on the distant horizon, casting picturesque shadows on the water. The breeze was gusting briskly; it yanked at the women’s clothing and played carelessly with their hair. What a contrasting pair of females they made standing there: a flaming-haired woman and a tawny-haired beauty. Time passed snailishly in the flurry of activity.

The two women stood in the doorway, apprehensively awaiting their turns. Both shivered, from fear and the increasing chill. The dampness caused their noses to glow and their cheeks to flush. They remained still and silent, not even conversing with each other. This awesome moment in time was assailing their senses and mesmerizing them with its implications.

Eventually, Captain Shurling approached them and smiled regretfully. “Sorry, ladies. Men with gold fever are a reckless and rude bunch. I can’t imagine why they rush ashore like frenzied jackals over a carcass; they can’t head inland until morning.” He chuckled, “They’re frantically searching for a place to sleep and affordable victuals to fill their bellies. See that log cabin to the left of the settlement?” he inquired, pointing in its direction.

When the two women nodded yes, he continued, “A man named Drayton Cardone lives there. He’s a reliable and pleasant fellow; he buys and sells equipment and supplies. If anyone can help you, it’s Dray. If not, that largest tent belongs to Moore, a lumberman. If there’s a problem or any trouble, see him. He’s a friendly and kind sort. Lumberjacks, trappers, and some of the more fortunate miners eat at his place. He might have some work for you. As to where you’ll live, or even sleep tonight, God only knows. Pardon the candor, but it’s the bare-faced truth. Are you sure you two want to get off the ship? I’ll return you to Seattle for free,” he offered, hoping his generosity would appease any lingering hostility toward him.

Harriet smiled at him and stated, “You’re a fine man, sir. Thank you, but we’ll be staying. Right, Kathy?” she probed.

Kathy didn’t even hear her or answer her. She stood transfixed by the railing, her eyes on that gruesome vista and her damp curls blowing around her head in wild abandonment. “Kathy?’” Harriet called out to her. “Are you sure you want to remain here with me? The captain said he would take you back to Seattle without charge.”

Kathy met her imploring gaze. “If my father’s here, I’ll find him.

“It’s a shocking sight. Where will we stay? What about our things?”

“Captain Shurling gave me the names of two men to see. I’ll take care of everything, child,” Harriet announced with false bravado.

“Let’s go then. It’s getting late,” Kathy whispered. Facing any unknown was better than remaining within Marc’s violent reach.

The final decision made, they gingerly approached the rope ladder. Harriet agilely went over the side and settled herself in the boat. Their belongings were passed over to a sturdy man in the craft. Kathy dropped her cape and drawstring purse over to the man to give to Harriet, fearing they would entangle her during this terrifying descent.

As modestly as possible, Kathy placed her leg over the railing and put her foot on the limp rung. The ladder swayed precariously as her entire weight was placed on it. She clung on for dear life, having been cautioned about the temperature of the water and the unlikely chance of finding a private place to dry off and change clothes. Thankfully the distance was only a few feet, although it seemed more like twenty to the girl dangling in mid-air. The wind whipped at her skirt-tail and threatened to entangle her shaky legs. The boat rocked as her feet touched its wooden bottom. She wavered and would have tumbled into the gelid blue water if the burly man hadn’t caught her and steadied her. She flashed him a wan smile of appreciation and relief.

The smaller boat headed for shore, leaving behind the larger steamship. They turned to wave to Shurling as the captain called out, “Don’t forget; I sail at dawn. If you change your mind, come back before then.”

The two women waved and smiled again. As the craft neared shore, the man at Shurling’s side asked, “Why didn’t you tell them Slavin will be put ashore before we sail? I doubt Skagway is big enough for Miss Hammond and Mister Slavin.”

“After getting a good look at that place, maybe they’ll change their minds. If not, that’s too bad. But I want that scum off my ship; I can’t stomach him a minute longer. It’ll teach him a good lesson to be stranded here! In a camp with no other females and scores of husky men, they’ll find somebody to protect them,” he declared, watching the little boat land on the shore. “That Pullen woman is quite a female, but that sandy-haired lass has much to learn,” he muttered as he walked off, caught up in his own cares and interests.

The snaggle-toothed, snub-nosed man stepped out and dragged his boat onto the loose rocks to beach her. A lopsided grin claimed his broad mouth, looking odd amidst the heavy beard which sorely needed a good trimming. In spite of the harsh conditions, his light blue eyes revealed a kindness and a gentleness which pleased both women. He was a giant of a man when he stood up, his frame robust and hard.

“Who gonna meetcha here?” he asked in a strange accent which neither female could place, tugging habitually on his wiry beard.

“No one,” Harriet calmly replied, smiling brightly and confidently. “We came to work and to earn a pouch of gold.”

“Ya ain’t got no man or family?” he asked in a booming voice.

Kathy’s face and eyes glowed. “I do!” she blurted. “I’ve come to find my father and join him,” she perkily announced to the startled man who was eying them critically by this time.

“What be his name?” the dark-haired giant inquired instantly.

“Jake Hammond,” she replied, lifting her chin proudly.

“Jake Hammond…,” he echoed, mulling the unfamiliar name over in his mind. “No man hereabouts with that name. I knows most of ’em. No Hammonds,” he declared with finality, twisting some long hairs around his index finger.

“But I was told he came here two years ago! He must be here!” she argued, alarmed by his assured air.

“Lots come. Some leave quickly. Some head inland. Some die. Some makes their fortunes and gets out before another winter sets in,” he announced.

Kathy whitened and swayed. Griff, the boat man, reached out to catch her, thinking she was about to faint at that distressing news. Kathy clutched at his thick arm and held it tightly until her head cleared.

“Not to worry. If there be a Hammond in this territory, Old Griff’ll find ’em for ye,” he gallantly exclaimed, puffing up with self-confidence, smiling amicably, wanting to return a smile to her face.

“Thank you, Mister…” she faltered in ignorance of his identity, then said, “I don’t know your name, sir.”

Griff beamed in pleasure and cheerfulness. “Griffin Carter, but I be called Griff. Where ya wants this stuff?” he genially asked.

“I don’t rightly know, Griff,” Harriet confessed uncomfortably, presuming friendliness might encourage his assistance. “No one mentioned there weren’t any boarding houses or such. What do you suggest, Griff?” she entreated, her eyes imploring him for help.

Griff sighed heavily and scratched his head of thick, bushy hair as he gave this puzzle some serious consideration. He finally shook his head. “Don’t get many females over this way. Most of ’em which comes here heads for Dawson the next morning. They don’t exactly needs any special place to stay that one night,” he innocently alerted them to the meaning of his words, then actually blushed when Kathy enlightened him to his crude implication with her sudden inhalation of air. “I meant, there ain’t no place for ladies here, ma’am.”

“We’re here, so we’ll make the best of it,” Harriet stated to ease his embarrassment. Griff gave a good impression; they might have use of a strong, proud, and genial man like this. “We had no idea things were this rough. My husband died and left me penniless; I couldn’t find a good job down in Seattle. When I read about the gold rush and how much money could be made here with hard work and a cunning mind, we packed up and here we are. We don’t have enough money to buy passage back to America. So, we’ll just have to stay here and find some work and a place to live. You’ve been kind and helpful, Griff; thank you.”

Flustered by this novel feminine attention and their friendliness to him, he grinned and stammered, “Ain’t no need to thank me. I’ll help you two all I can. I can’t rightly allow two defenseless women to go roaming around a place like this.”

The captain’s words flashed across Harriet’s frantic mind. “What about a man called Drayton Cardone? Captain Shurling said he might assist us,” she optimistically offered.

“He might if he was here, but he ain’t. He’s gone to Dawson for a few weeks on business. Be there at least six to seven more days.”

“What now, Harriet?” Kathy asked in rising panic.

Before Harriet could reply, another burly man approached them. “Any problem here, Griff?” he asked in a raspy but courteous tone.

“They ain’t got no family or a place to live, Mr. Moore. I don’t rightly know what to do with ’em,” he replied in a respectful tone.

“Moore!” Harriet exclaimed in renewed excitement and hope. “You must be the man Captain Shurling mentioned to us. He said to check with a Drayton Cardone or Mr. Moore. Would that be you, sir?” she asked, eagerly awaiting his response.

“Probably,” Moore hesitantly mumbled, amazed by the presence of ladies. “Why’d you two come to a secluded and wild place like this?” he probed.

Harriet nervously repeated her tale.

“Children!” Moore snapped irritably, glancing around in anger. “Surely you didn’t bring little ones with you?”

“Not with me. A friend is keeping them until I can send for them. From what I read, the miners pay hefty for chores. I’m strong and dependable. Surely there’s plenty of cooking, sewing, cleaning, and doctoring to be done. But Kathy came to search for her father,” she hastily added to lessen his li. . .