True Grit

Chapter 12

Twenty-five years, a quarter of a century, indeed encompasses a considerable expanse of time, filled with both gratitude and unanswered promises. After composing a heartfelt letter of thanks to Marshal Cogburn, I also extended an invitation for him to visit, accompanied by the fifty dollars I owed him. His response was concise, promising to attempt contact during his next trip to Fort Smith while transporting prisoners. However, despite the brevity of his note, it was marred by numerous misspellings, revealing perhaps a lack of formal education but not diminishing the respect I held for him. As the days passed, the marshal's anticipated visit never materialized, and any further communication between us ceased. Unbeknownst to me, during his departure, I was unconscious, and my hand had already turned black due to a grave injury. It seems I lost my arm while in this unconscious state, a fate that fatefully changed the course of my life. Nevertheless, I later discovered that Mr. LeBoeuf made a complete recovery. Upon being discovered by the marshals, he was diligently scouring the pine-laden terrain below the rock ledge in search of Tom Chaney's lifeless body. His determination led him to locate the body and return it to San Saba to claim the rightful reward he had undoubtedly earned. Looking back on these events, one cannot help but reflect on the twists of fate that shape our lives. The unfulfilled promise of the marshal's visit and the unintended outcome of my injury remain as reminders of the unpredictable nature of life's journey. Despite it all, Mr. LeBoeuf's tenacity and ultimate success in locating Chaney's body exemplify the resilience of the human spirit and the commitment to fulfilling one's duty, even in the face of adversity. Thus, this chapter in my life serves as a testament to the passage of time, the fragility of existence, and the triumph of perseverance.

As the train glides steadily along the tracks, I find myself gazing out of the window, lost in a world of memories and reflections. Beyond the glass, I see a slender figure—a woman, now forty years old, and that woman is me, Mattie Ross, all grown up. It's hard to believe how quickly time has passed, and yet, the experiences etched in my heart make it feel like a lifetime ago since those fateful events in my youth. The scenery outside is dominated by a sprawling railyard, bustling with the energy of trains coming and going. The clanking of metal against metal and the rhythmic chugging of engines bring back vivid memories of the time I sought justice for my father's death. The hardships and dangers I faced during my pursuit of Tom Chaney and the relentless pursuit of justice alongside the tough and eccentric Rooster Cogburn. As the train gradually slows down, the station's name comes into view, but there's something peculiar about it—I can read it, but the letters are reversed as I peer into the window's mirror-like surface. MEMPHIS. The sight of the name sparks a cascade of recollections, memories of the time when I traveled through this very station, my heart set on avenging my father. In MEMPHIS, my resolve was put to the test, and my determination was pushed to its limits. It was here that I encountered danger, met new allies, and navigated the murky waters of justice and morality. As I look at the reflection of the station name, I can't help but smile at how far I've come, and how those trials shaped the woman I am today. The train's gentle swaying brings me back to the present, and I take a moment to marvel at the twists and turns life has thrown my way. I've experienced triumph and loss, pain and joy, but through it all, I've held onto the lessons I learned during that unforgettable journey of my youth. Now, as I observe my older self in the window, I feel a sense of pride in the person I've become. The strong-willed girl who embarked on a quest for justice has evolved into a resilient woman, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

As the train comes to a gentle halt, I step down, my eyes alight with curiosity and anticipation. One of the sleeves of my dress is pinned up, a reminder of the trials and tribulations I've faced, and the indomitable spirit that still resides within me. In one hand, I hold a small bag, while in the other, tightly clutched against its handle, is a flier that has piqued my interest. I call out assertively to a young boy standing on the platform and show him the flier I hold. It proudly advertises the "Cole Younger and Frank James Wild West Show," promising thrilling displays of riding, shooting, and lariat tricks. Among the featured performers is a name that catches my attention—Rooster Cogburn. The flier promises that he will amaze the audience with his skill and daring. Memories of our past adventures together come rushing back, reminding me of the bond we formed during our pursuit of justice. The boy looks up, and with excitement, he points me in the right direction. Determinedly, I cross the platform and proceed further along until I descend to the railyard. There, parked along a siding, I find the colorful cars of the Wild West Show, each adorned with gaudily painted scenes depicting cowboys on rearing horses, firing their six-guns, conestoga wagons, war-bonneted Indians, and bandana-wearing outlaws. It's as if the vibrant scenes have come to life, breathing energy and excitement into the atmosphere. Among these vivid depictions, three vignetted scenes capture the essence of the show's featured performers—Cole Younger, Frank James, and Rooster Cogburn. Rooster's face, distinguished by his signature eyepatch, stands out, a testament to his legendary reputation. Below his name is a sub-legend that speaks of his history, mentioning that he rode with Quantrill and for Parker, giving a glimpse into his past life. As I make my way through the crowd of cowboys and Indians milling around the rail cars, I inquire about the location of Rooster Cogburn's presence. Their weary faces, a stark contrast to the painted representations on the cars, hint at the toll that such a show and lifestyle have taken on them. Undeterred, I continue my quest, following the directions I've been given, determined to find Rooster amidst the spectacle. Our shared history and the unbreakable bond we forged drive me forward, fueling my excitement to witness his daring feats once more, and perhaps even rekindle the camaraderie we once had. As I move through the railyard, I can't help but feel a surge of nostalgia and hope for the adventures that lie ahead in the "Cole Younger and Frank James Wild West Show."