7Stars

Seek Him What Made Them Seven Stars
By Waddie Greywolf

Chapter 60

"A person does not hear sound only through the ears; he hears sound through every pore of his body. It permeates the entire being, and according to its particular influence either slows or quickens the rhythm of the blood circulation; it either wakens or soothes the nervous system. It arouses a person to greater passions or it calms him by bringing him peace. According to the sound and its influence a certain effect is produced. Sound becomes visible in the form of radiance. This shows the same energy which goes into the form of sound before being visible is absorbed by the physical body. In that way, the physical body recuperates and becomes charged with new magnetism." ~ from 'Mysticism of Sound' by Hazrat Inayat Khan.

“Did you work Harley-Buck's ass off, Little Brother?” Billy asked.

“How could I? I took one look at them damn horns you give him, my heart melted, and ran down into ma' boots. It felt like I was walk'n in a field of fresh cow-pies, Brother,” Randy said and got Billy laughing.

“He does look hot in them horns, don't he?” Billy asked.

“I asked him if he enjoyed himself wiff' my favorite giant, and he grinned from ear to ear, like he stole a cooling pie from a kitchen window and done ate it all his'self. I didn't have to ask no more. Gog come along with Earl Hickson, and we got to work. Harley-Buck done good. So did Earl. I only had to show them men once't what I wanted, and they were right there ever' time the men set another panel into place. They worked fast and efficient. They never took a break until the last board was installed and Harley-Buck secured it. Them men worked harder than anyone else on the crew. Harley-Buck easily redeemed himself with me,” Randy declared.

“Yeah, he's good at that, but he's also sincere about it,” Billy agreed.

Randy opened a gate to the Johnson place in The Woodlands, and the two men walked through. Daffy and Chloe started barking the minute they saw the gate spring-up to alert their masters of the arrival of the Daniels men. Ramrod Randy and his big brother came through the gate of free-electrons and were immediately inundated by the dogs and their show of love. “Masser Bee-wee! Wam-wad Wandy! Chloe shouted.

“Ah-ooff! Ah-ooff! Will-come! Hi-ya'll?” Daffy managed.

Billy and Randy returned their love with lavish praise for their attempts at speaking. Harlen and Jessie were coming down the stone walkway from the back door of the house. They greeted the men, and more attention was lavished on the dogs. They couldn't get enough of Randy and Billy and kept throwing big-dog body blocks into them to get their attention. Randy and Billy were loving it and knelt down to give each one a hug and a kiss.

“We come to ranch?” Chloe asked, “Sun-gun, we have much fun, me-yo, my-yo,” Chloe added quoting Cajun lyrics and Billy and Randy broke-up laughing.

“Yes, peas, Masser Billy! What Clo said – us come, too?” Daffy asked almost perfectly and stunned Jessie and Harlen.

“See! I told you he can talk when he wants something,” Jessie said to Harlen.

“That's the best we done heard out of him,” Harlen said surprised.

“Of course you may come to the ranch. It wouldn't be the same without you,” Billy replied.

“We like ranch – much do, much see –” Daffy said.

“Yeah, admit it! You two make out like bandits,” Jessie said and laughed.

“They like us,” Chloe said coquettishly in their defense wagging her whole body. Everyone shared a laugh.

“Are you gentlemen ready to go?” Billy asked.

“I packed each of us a back-pack for the weekend. They're in the kitchen. We sent the help on an errand, and they won't be back for a while. We need to find a better place for the gate – like maybe down in the stables,” Jessie said.

“Makes sense,” Billy allowed.

“Let us grab our gear, and we'll walk you down 'nere,” Harlen said.

Randy shut down the gate while he and Billy awaited their return. “Do you think we should warn Harlen about his boy's new feature?” Billy asked Randy.

“I think it would be a good idea to explain why Harley-Buck's wear'n them handsome horns,” Randy replied, “You don't want Master Harlen think'n you changed his boy into a Minotaur,” the boy added and giggled. Billy laughed at his little brother's joke.

It didn't take Harlen and Jessie anytime to gather their things, and they were off to the stables. As they walked along they began to talk. “We got something we need to share with you, Master Harlen,” Randy began.

“Yeah, what's 'zat, Gentlemen?” he asked.

“Your boy was a hero yesterday and risked his life to save a runaway mare 'afore she stampeded over a cliff. It was one of the most remarkable cowboy stunts we ever done seen. It rivaled Yakima Canutt's daring stunt in John Ford's 'Stagecoach,' but it hurt him pretty bad; nothing life threatening, but it could have been. Of course, we healed him right away and made sure he was all right internally, but I wanted to do something special for him to show my appreciation for his heroism. He asked for a set of horns like I give him before,” Billy explained.

Harlen and Jessie broke up laughing. “No!” Harlen exclaimed and laughed, “Then I take it you leveled with him about the dungeon, Hell, and meeting the Devil?” he asked.

“Yeah, it seemed like the right thing to do. He spent the night with our wonderful giant,” Billy replied.

“I can't wait to see him,” Jessie said.

“Stopped my heart at thirty paces, he did!” Randy exclaimed, and they laughed again, “I's gonna' give him a bad time and get all over him for spending the night wiff' my favorite giant, Billy Gog Groats, but like I done told ma' big brother, my heart melted at the sight of him wear'n them horns, and it ran down into my boots. He got off easy,” Randy said like he was frustrated. The men laughed with him. “I's tell'n, Master Billy, he almost done single handed built the new addition to our barnyard stage; however, his punishment slave brother, Earl Hickson, stayed right wiff' him the whole time. I done changed my opinion about Earl, too. You won't believe how good our new stage looks, Master Jessie. It's almost twice't the size and depth of the original,” Randy added.

When they arrived in the big barn-like stable, Randy opened another gate in the middle of the walkway. The two end doors of the stable were at a ninety degree angle away from the living buildings so you couldn't see in from the house or the servant's quarters. Randy motioned for the two giant dogs to follow him, and they went through the gate together – soon to be followed by Billy, Jessie, and Harlen.

“My God! I forgot how beautiful this place is,” Harlen said stepping onto the other side, and let out a deep sigh.

“We didn't,” Chloe checked him and everyone laughed.

“I'm with you, Master Harlen, I'm sure it's prettier than the last time,” Jessie agreed with his boss.

The dogs were away with Randy running up to the front porch. They saw Kate and Zelma coming down the front stairs and made a bee-line for them. “Ms. Kate! Ms. Zelma!" Chloe yelled, while running.

“Why, Chloe, you clever hound!” Zelma exclaimed and opened her arms for the huge dog.

“What about you, Daffy?” Kate asked.

“Speak, non so gud as Clo,” he lamented and went to Kate.

“You'll learn, Dear. You must be patient and work at it. The more you try, the better you will get. Pretty soon you'll be talking better than them cowboys, and when you do, I hope you shame them into learning to speak better English,” Kate laughed while encouraging the big male dog.

“Love your cook'n, Ms. Kate,” Daffy managed to get out. Zelma and Kate laughed.

“That's all the words you have to learn to win my heart, Daffy,” Kate said and everyone laughed.

Folks were still arriving so Kate decided to stand around and chat for a while until everyone arrived. There were several trucks coming up the drive and a couple of cars. Mary Rutherford with her mother-in-law holding the baby were arriving. The baby was learning to walk and eager to investigate everything. She had a fantasy land of giant beast's arms to run to who would provide her with the sweetest milk. Once the Rutherford's arrived, Mary and Evelyn Rutherford never worried about the baby. She was being looked after by someone or some beast every minute.

Mary was an old hand at charming the Guard-bulls at the front gate. They greeted and welcomed her graciously. Kayla was already at the ranch. She'd been there for a couple of days practicing with Aunt Helen and Roz and taking more lessons. Vox turned her piano lessons over to Aunt Helen and Kayla seemed to be blossoming under her tutelage. Her piano playing was almost as good as her cello playing. Randy took note and began to work harder on his violin.

“Do we have time to walk Harlen and Jessie down to the new stage behind the old barn, Grandma?” Billy asked Kate.

“I suppose so, but come a' running when I ring the triangle. We're ready to serve and you know how fussy the help can get when everyone's not there to sit down at the same time,” Kate replied.

“Yes, ma'am, Grandma, we'll come a' running,” Billy said and grinned. He knew his grandmother was the one who got upset when she was ready to serve, and they had to wait on anyone. She didn't considered it a cardinal sin, but damn near.

Billy and his posse took Harlen and Jessie to see the stage. They were stunned by what they saw. It was fantastic and almost doubled in size. Everyone was wowed by the light oak veneer covering the raw wood. It was expertly done with great attention to detail. It looked like something to rival any great concert hall and the way the light came through the skylights gave it an almost sacred appearance. It glowed from within. While they were standing around waiting for Kate to ring the triangle, Harley-Buck, Earl Hickson, and their keepers walked up to greet the guests. Their keepers took them to the slave processing center, cleaned them, pampered them with a full body rub-down using some bronzing oils Billy created especially for his punishment slaves which made them look like young gods. Harlen and Jessie were captivated by both men's appearance.

Harlen held his son away from him to get a good look at him and his horns. “I heard about your heroics and being given them set of horns by your master, Son. Bossman Randy sang your praises and told us how good you looked, but to see for ourselves is beyond special – you look wonderful. Proud to call you my son, Boy,” Harlen said.

“Thanks, Dad. I was worried you might not like them,” Harley-Buck replied.

“What's not to like?” asked Jessie and shook Harley-Buck's hand.

“Good to meet you again, Mr. Jones. Looking forward to hearing you play for us, sir,” Harley-Buck replied.

“Where's the Yamaha?” Jessie asked.

“It's in Houston at Mr. McMartin's warehouse where we're holding rehearsals tomorrow morning with the Houston Symphony so's you can have a run through before performing here at the ranch,” Randy spoke up.

“The Houston Symphony? No!” Jessie exclaimed.

“I know. It rocked me on my boot heels when ma' little brother done told me. Then he reminded me the Redbone name is right-powerful around Houston,” Billy said and the men agreed, “However, I want you to try the Steinway in the big house. You can have your choice. We can transport it to this stage easily enough. We'll have to angel-flight the Yamaha back anyway, but it won't be any problem. I'll leave it up to you. The Steinway has just been tuned and serviced by the only man what ever worked on it since it's been here at the ranch, Mr. Vox Humana,” Billy declared.

The men stood around and talked for a while until they heard Kate ring the triangle for everyone to gather in the big house for dinner. Harlen made arrangements to spend some time with his boy after the meal, and the men were away. Harley-Buck and Earl Hickson left to have their lunch with their slave brothers.

Billy asked Kayla if she was ready to play the Haydn Trio with Roz and Aunt Helen.

“I feel confident, but if you need to reschedule our performance because of more exciting performers which might be available for tomorrow, I won't feel hurt,” Kayla said. Roz was sitting next to her and gently put her hand on her arm in support.

“Nonsense, Little Lady, what could be more exciting than the birth of a new star rising from the musical fundament of our family. You, your teacher, and mentor are scheduled first on our performance docket. The stage will be yours,” Billy assured Kayla and saw Roz lower her head and smile. Billy caught her gesture as an approval of her master's reassurance for the young girl and Roz was pleased.

“Would you ladies consider doing us the honor of playing it for us in the music room upstairs after dinner and before dessert?” Billy asked.

Kayla looked at Roz. Roz looked over her shoulder, “Aunt Helen?” she asked.

“We're ready, Master Billy. We would be proud to provide you and your guests with a musical moment before dessert. What better way to enjoy a good meal than a sweet musical treat before an even sweeter taste treat?” Helen asked and smiled.

“I couldn't have put it better myself, Dear-lady,” Billy replied, “And it will give our guest artist a chance to play us a number on the Steinway to compare it to the Yamaha to make his choice of instruments he wishes to play for the concert tomorrow,” he added.

After a fine dinner, Billy asked his grandmother and Mrs. Zelma Redbone if they would be so kind to escort their guests for the weekend to the music room on the third floor and for Randy and Billy's posse to set up chairs for the string trio and disrobe the Steinway. Billy stayed behind to help and supervise the kitchen crew to get everything cleaned, put away, and dessert ready to be served when they returned. With the number of extra helpers Billy incorporated for the weekend, everything was accomplished in less than thirty minutes. The extra help seemed impressed by Billy's actions. Their master and leader was not above doing menial work to get the job done. He worked as steady and hard as any of them, and it went a long way toward public relations when they returned to their family slave-pods in the bunkhouses. However, they also had the extra added benefit of eating the same food as the family and were invited to the small afternoon musical soirée.

It was a beautiful day, and Billy's posse opened the upstairs windows to get a breeze through the room to replace the stale air. Also, because of a promise Master Billy made to the un-morphed cattle, he opened the windows so they might enjoy the music as well. They knew if the windows were opened, it was a sign to gather; there would soon be music coming forth. After Billy, his posse, and the rest of the help gathered and were seated, Aunt Helen asked if he would play master of ceremony.

“It would be my great honor, Ladies,” Billy effused, moving to the head of the crowd. “Ladies, Gentlemen, and Cowboys,” Billy started and got a few laughs from the audience. "I'm pleased and proud to present the first string trio we can call our own, which, until they decide a name for themselves, I will refer to as the Highland Shire Trio. Our artists this afternoon are Roz Cumber on viola, Miss Kayla Rutherford on cello, and our wonderful Aunt Helen Kirkendall on double-bass. Haydn’s Opus 53 consists of a set of three two-movement trios for violin, viola, and cello: No.1 in the key of G major, No.2 in B flat major, and No.3 in D major. They are his only works for the classical string trio. They also happen to be string arrangements of his piano sonatas 38, 39, and 40. Which came first, the sonatas or the trios? No one knows, but the loveliness of the music seems equally suited for either medium. Our trio will be playing the first of these three trios in G major. The two movements are 'Allegrette Innocente' and 'Presto.' It's one of my favorite of Haydn's many works. What makes this performance so special is the arrangement has been modified from the usual instrumentation of violin, viola, and cello to viola, cello, and double-bass. Let's give them a warm round of applause to welcome them,” Billy said and started to applaud.

The audience applauded politely and the trio was ready to play. Kayla was sitting between Roz and Aunt Helen. It was obvious the mature ladies were showcasing their new protégée and were playing to encourage her to shine – and shine Kayla did. After the first couple of measures she found her own voice and set in to play with her musical partners as a game of give and take, call and response, through the lovely first movement and easily kept up her part in the 'Presto' movement. It was a wonderful reading of the work, youthful and spirited. It displayed the talents of the three ladies equally. Kayla was so good playing her cello, she made her little brother squirm in his seat, until his big brother sent him a mental word of reassurance to calm him.

When they finished, the gathered audience went crazy. Kayla looked almost startled. She didn't expect such an enthusiastic reaction. The ladies stood and took a bow, while the audience was applauding, whistling, stomping boots, with hats being thrown in the air. For a while it was utter chaos. Billy took them by the hand and led them to the small balcony to take a bow to the gathered slaves and Irin cattle. They were going crazy, too. Kayla got a look of pleasure on her face Billy saw many times before on new musicians. It was a smile of deep satisfaction; Kayla played and played well. It was a smile of pride and self-confidence. There's no high like it anywhere else on Earth. Billy was glad he arranged the performance. He knew Kayla would be in top form the following day, and the trio was just the right bon-bon to start their most ambitious concert to date.

After the crowd settled down, Roz, Kayla, and Aunt Helen took seats reserved for them on the front row. Billy and his posse removed the music stands and chairs used by the trio, and his men helped him move the big Steinway to the front of the stage. “I spoke with our other guest artist this morning, and he told me he had a couple of things prepared for us, but he was told by his manager not to play the Rachmaninoff until rehearsal or the actual performance. I agree with his manager. We didn't discuss what he would play, so I'll let him announce it,” Billy said and sat down.

Jessie walked to the stage and the audience politely applauded for him. “Thank you for your warm welcome. Since the Rachmaninoff Rhapsody I will be playing tomorrow is a set of variations on a piece of music by Niccolo Paganini, I will play one of Liszt's greatest works for piano, 'La Campanella,' based on the theme from the last movement of Paganini's second violin concerto,” he said and sat down at the piano.

Jessie's attack on the Steinway was unexpected by most, except a handful who were familiar with the piece. Every mouth in the music room dropped open, and many never closed until Jessie played the final notes of the composition. Jessie launched into the difficult piece with an unhesitatingly bold technical tour de force. His skill as an accomplished musician came through stunningly and maintained the same standard of excellence throughout his performance. His playing was breathtaking and left Zelma Redbone and Kate Daniels looking at each other incredulously.

For once in his young life, Ramrod Randy was speechless. Other than Harlen Johnson, Billy was the only cowboy in the room who wasn't surprised. He knew from hearing Jessie play the Bartók Etudes the big man had an uncanny talent and nothing would surprise him. Billy couldn't wait to join him conducting the Houston Philharmonic with Jessie playing the Rachmaninoff Rhapsody.

The audience broke into pandemonium. Everyone was on their feet wildly applauding, whistling, with more stomping of boots, and cowboy hats being tossed into the air and onto the stage. Jessie got the biggest grin on his face. He never played for such an appreciative audience before and the enthusiasm of the folks of the Daniels Ranch hit him as the most wonderful response he could ever hope to receive for his playing. Money and fame were empty pipe dreams to Jessie. Having cowboy hats thrown at his feet was life in real-time and couldn't be measured in the joy it brought him. The crowd outside were even louder. They were hollering to see the person who played so beautifully. Billy escorted Jessie to the balcony as the audience in the concert hall continued their appreciation.

“More! More! Encore! Encore! Another, please, Master Jessie,” the cows and Irin cowboys and cowgirls shouted.

“You got another one in you, Brother?” Billy asked as Jessie smiled, waved, bowed, and clapped back at his adoring mixed audience.

“Another Liszt piece?” Jessie ask.

“What could top 'La Campanella'?” Billy asked.

“The Mephisto Waltz,” Jessie replied.

“That'll do it!” Billy exclaimed and patted Jessie on his back. Billy raised his hand to silence the crowd. “Master Jessie has agreed to play one more piece for us. He will play Franz Liszt's Mephisto Waltz. 'Mephisto' comes from the name 'Mephistopheles' which was an Italian name for the mythological critter known as the Devil. Liszt named the piece the Devil's Waltz because it is a devilishly difficult piece to play,” he shouted to them. They roared their approval and broke into cheers and applause for Jessie.

The men returned to the room. The audience inside was still talking about Jessie's performance. “Did ya'll here what I told the crowd outside the window?” Billy asked and everyone said they heard; for him to hurry to his seat, hesh up, and sit down so Jessie could play. Billy roared with laughter, “It's all yours, Maestro Jones,” Billy bowed and made a sweeping gesture to the stage. The cowboys gathered their hats so's they could throw them again.

“There were few words which could describe Jessie's playing of the Mephisto Waltz. About halfway through the piece it was like something deep inside the Steinway woke up and suddenly discovered it had a new master, and he was demanding the great beast respond to his loving touch in a like manner. There were sounds coming from the old piano Billy never heard before. He leaned near his grandmother's ear and whispered, “The old girl's still got a soul in her, Grandma,” he said.

“I never heard her sing like this before, Billy. It's like she's got a new boyfriend, and she's acting like a fresh young tart doing her best to flirt with him and get his attention. The shameless old hussy wants to play the Rachmaninoff bad,” Kate allowed and smiled. Billy giggled. His grandmother knew how to sling cowboy-hyperbole well.

The ending of the piece was so dramatic everyone jumped to their feet to cheer, applaud, throw their hats again, whistle, stomp their boots, and create general mayhem. The roar from the outside was deafening. Jessie took a couple of bows and walked to the balcony and took several more bows. Billy didn't escort Jessie the second time. He let him have all the glory. They loved him. He raised his hand for silence, and they quieted down. “Thank you so much for your enthusiasm and warm response. I will look forward to playing for you again tomorrow afternoon. Your master has a special treat in store for you, and I know you will enjoy it. Thank you again, and we'll see you around the ranch. Stop and say hello when you see me out and about,” Jessie said warmly, and the crowd went crazy again. They appreciated Jessie's down-to-Earth quality.

The Daniels' family and their guests returned to the dining area where dessert was waiting for them. Everyone was talking about how wonderful the string trio performed and what a great treat it was to hear more of Jessie's playing. There was much to talk about. Everyone wanted to know about the following day and how Billy and Randy planned to do a simultaneous broadcast of the orchestra from Houston to the ranch. Billy let Randy explain. “It's really simple. It's like talking with someone on your computer using Skype, only we'll be using a much larger three-dimensional screen behind the piano and a much superior sound system one of our new family members, Odin Bluetooth, and several of his best men installed for us under my supervision,” Randy said, “The T.V. feed for the orchestra will be nearly the same quality sound, but they will only see Master Billy conduct them on a large flat screen,” he added.

“Why go to all that bother? Why not just 'gate' the lot of them here for the afternoon?” Tron Garrett asked.

“Yeah!” Nathan said agreeing with what his mate asked.

There was a silence around the room you could cut with a knife. “We just ain't considered it, Mr. Garrett. I was working under the assumption we didn't want that many folks seeing some of the stranger things about us, and Master Billy never said otherwise,” Randy replied like he was hurt anyone should question his plan.

“Don't get me wrong, Son, I think your plan is damn near close to genius, but it seems like you's go'n to an awful lot of trouble to provide a once-removed experience for our audience and guests they could just as easily be enjoying in the flesh – and the sound and intimacy of the performers with the orchestra would be greatly enhanced,” Tron said, “You got a first class performer in Mr. Jones. It would be a damn shame to deny him the complete orchestra in person to accompany him. Sooner or later the greater public is gonna' find out about our little secrets. How much damage could hearsay be from a group of musicians? I'm sure you got 'apps' with the Shedus to make their cell phones and photo equipment fail to work around the ranch so's we wouldn't be splashed all over Facebook and go viral on YouTube on the Internet,” he added.

There was another silence and Randy looked to Billy like he didn't know what to say. “You got a good point, Ramrod Garrett. I'm afraid it's my fault and not my little brothers. I got to say, I think his idea is the best one he's had since them Angels showed up to accompany him in them bubbles. I got so caught up in the technical end, I didn't consider the human end. I been working under the idea them folks would be spooked by such new and unusual technology they never saw before. Who among us didn't get butterflies in their stomach the first time they faced walking though one a them gates?” Billy asked. He looked around the room and slowly one hand after another went up until about two thirds of them were holding up their hands. “Okay! Okay! So I'm just an old fraidy-cat. I'll admit it, but my point is, it would have to be unanimous for the whole orchestra to transport, or it wouldn't work,” Billy said.

“Couldn't hurt none to explain it to them, tell 'um it's a new secret device Mr. McMartin's company is pioneering you want kept secret until patent rights are assured, and ask how they feel about it,” Nathan backed Tron, “Besides you're gonna' have folks coming and going through the gate to and from the ranch. They're gonna' wanna' know the how, what, and where about them arriving and disappearing into a wall of free electrons,” he added.

“Beside, once you heal a couple of the members what ain't up to your personal standards, they's gonna' know there's something a little different about you and the rest of us,” Captain Nick said and got a laugh out of everyone.

“That's unfair, Pa. That's a cheap shot!” Billy exclaimed laughing.

“No it ain't!” Zelma checked him, “Captain Nick's right! Some of the members of that orchestra were there when I was a young girl, and they need four pointers and portable oxygen to get around. One good strong toot on a horn, and they're liable to pass out,” Zelma added using some of the hyperbole what rubbed off on her from years with her cowboy husband. Everyone was rolling on the floor laughing at their exchange.

“And, other than cowboys, you have a soft spot in your heart for cripple children, animals, and musicians, Billy, and you can't deny it,” Kate slammed him to the mat for the take-down.

“Oh, all right! All right! I know when I'm licked,” Billy said and laughed, “Well see what happens. If we can't, I think Randy's backup plan will work nicely,” he added.

“I don't mean to go agin you, Brother, but I think they got a good point,” Randy said.

“I gotta' cast my vote with my brother ranchers and the Bossman,” Elmer Breedlove said.

“Yore' feelings won't be hurt, Bossman?” Billy asked.

“I'd rather have them here in-the-flesh,” Randy replied.

“Can I see a show of hands? How many want to go wiff' us and sit through rehearsals?” Billy asked.

Almost every hand in the room went up including some Billy never would have expected.

“We got that many extra chairs?” Billy asked Tom.

“Oh, yeah, we got a warehouse full of them. The place is under guard outside and inside around the clock. It's surrounded by a ten foot high chain-link fence with barbed spirals all around. There's a small house on the roof with a garden we can get away and be private so's no one will see us coming or going. We drive there, leave our car, and transport here and back. We also use it as a weekend getaway, too. It's very private,” Tom replied, “We even have a guest cottage for Grandma,” he added and smiled.

* * * * * * * *
Almost everyone was there at the ranch for supper. Sheriff Will Tate, his Dad Buster, and little brother, Everett came and brought Miranda and the pups. They were learning to behave themselves, and they had special people with whom they were forming bonds. Each pup could be found with one or two people they came to love and trust – all except Gracie. Gracie was an independent spirit of the first magnitude, and it would take someone very special to capture her imagination. That person hadn't come along yet, and she was always where she shouldn't be at the wrong time. Finally, she decided staying around the two largest Watchers, Boomer and Brute would keep her out of mischief for a while.

After supper the men retired to Captain Nick's ship and the tubs. Not everyone enjoyed the close male camaraderie of men bathing together. Judge LaFleur enjoyed it more than his boy and made excuses to get back to his place to leave with his son. Most didn't want to miss anything and to have a chance to drink more of the wonderful tea, but as summer was coming on they decided to switch and make iced herbal-spiced tea and serve it in quart Mason jars.

“Will some of this tea be available tomorrow afternoon with dinner?” Jessie asked.

“Yes, we will offer both herbal-spice and regular iced tea. I don't think it would hurt your performance,” Billy said.

“I was hoping it might even enhance it somewhat. I feel confident, but it might cut the anxiety one always gets just before a performance,” Jessie said.

“Try some before we rehearse and see what effect it has on you. If it does what you want, try some more for the performance,” Billy said.

“Good idea. Will you have some there?” Jessie asked.

“Oh, yeah, I want to see what it does for them musicians,” Billy said and laughed wickedly.

The evening ended early. Everyone was excited about the next day and knew they needed to get an early start. They would be up at the crack of dawn to have breakfast and get everything ready at the ranch before they gated to the McMartin warehouse in a deserted woodland area very near the The Woodlands where Harlen and Jessie lived. There wasn't another large building around for miles and you couldn't actually see the huge building from the road. The only entrance was through a guard gate manned twenty-four hours a day seven days a week. Many government buildings didn't have the security Tom's building boasted.

You can bet talk was lively around the table the next morning with Billy getting feedback from his coordinating teams and his close family posse. Everyone was talking at once and trying to eat at the same time. Sheriff Tate got the weekend off, and he and his family were there. They were learning to love the music Billy and his family were playing. Miranda wanted to go along, but she knew the pups would want to follow, and that might not be wise. She learned to shed her wings when she didn't need them, but they hadn't yet taught the pups how to de-wing.

Billy was careful to keep quiet about the coordination of plans for loading the school bus and two large cargo vans for a trip through Bossman Randy's mega-gate to the North West woods of Oregon. His posse worked diligently to keep separate what they needed at the rehearsal. “Hank, Buck, Poly, Cass, ya'll got the coffee urns and tea dispensers ready to go, and what about them homemade Hosanna Cakes you done promised for treats for the orchestra?” he asked.

“We got everything ready, but we cheated on them Hosanna Cakes. We got a surprise shipment from Retikki Prime left in our bedroom early this morning what doubles the amount we got made up. I gotta' say, we think you'll have a difficult time telling them apart,” Buck bragged.

“I'll be the Judge of that!” Billy exclaimed officiously and laughed.

“Oh, no you won't! Us ladies what do the cooking around here will decide,” Kate checked him and everyone laughed.

“Yes, ma'am, Grandma,” Billy answered like a little boy and made everyone laugh harder.

“What time's the orchestra suppose to be there?” Zelma asked.

“Ten O'clock, Me-maw,” Tom answered and a few grinned, “What? She's ma' grandma. What do you call her, Enoch?” he asked.

“Mrs. Redbone!” Enoch replied and fell out laughing. Everyone joined him.

“They're just fun'n with you, Tom. Enoch calls me 'Me-maw,' and I'm proud to say, so does his mate, Moss Garrett,” Zelma came to Tom's rescue.

“Can I call you Me-maw, Mrs. Redbone,” Randy asked with enthusiasm.

“Not until you play your first piano concerto with the Houston Orchestra,” Zelma replied and everyone laughed. Kayla laughed the hardest. Randy frowned at her.

“Good Lord, don't put no more ideas in that kid's head! He's already on a fast track as it is,” Billy said. “That may come sooner than you think, Ms. Zelma,” he added and laughed.

“I hope it does. It will be a proud day,” Zelma declared and winked at Randy.

* * * * * * *
There's always those who plan and arrive ahead of time to get set up, those who arrive on the dot and then get set up, and alas, the stragglers who just had one last thing to do before they could get there and are thirty minutes to an hour late. The Daniels family was no exception. Billy and his posse were there at eight mainly to get the refreshment tables set up and have Tom give them a brief tour of the facility. Others straggled through the gate at their leisure. Everyone who took the tour, admitted they were impressed. The house on the roof was ultra modern and you could see all the way to down-town Houston from the penthouse on top of the six story office building next to the gigantic warehouse. Bubba, Jack, and Aunt Helen allowed they could put both of the Kirkendall white whales inside the warehouse and still have room for a couple more the same size.

Up on the roof, there was a beautiful, well-tended garden with a heated and lighted lap pool. The 'Me-maw' cottage, as Tom called it, was a delight and looked like a turn of the century English cottage with old world warmth and charm. Tom claimed it cost him four times the price to decorate than it cost for the main house which was starkly modern, but inviting. To get to the living quarters required taking a private elevator, but there was also a cargo elevator for ease of moving large pieces of furniture in and out. Tom took everyone up on the big elevator; also, there were emergency stairs which were only available from the top down, or if you had the password, to unlock the door on the first floor. The whole thing reeked of mega-wealth, but Tom McMartin never acted the part. It was one of the first things his 'Me-maw' taught her grandsons – to be humble and never flaunt your position – unless, of course, if you're backed into a corner by the threat of a hostile takeover.

By the time Billy and his crew returned to the warehouse, folks were arriving, getting set up, and availing themselves of the refreshment tables run by Hank, Buck, Poly, Cass, Moss, Picard, Randy, Rory, and Cal. Billy's crew were wearing their finest buckaroo outfits and were a delight to see. The orchestra members began to mingle with Billy's family and were welcomed. Billy notice a harp and some percussion instruments were already there. He asked Tom about them. “We had to have a special musical instrument moving company pick them up and deliver them. They been here since yesterday,” Tom replied.

“Jesus! Between Bossman Randy and you, ya'll will send this old cowboy to the poorhouse,” Billy said and grinned.

“No charge. They were just about to go under, so I bought the company for the Highland Shire Corporation,” Tom replied, slapped his knee, and roared with laughter at the look on Billy's face.

“Wise man, Kemosabe! A smart business move,” Nick said and grinned at Billy.

“Well, he gave me a budget and told me to spend it for whatever we needed. You know this ain't gonna' be the only time for this until you get your own instruments,” Tom explained.

“I'm with you, Pa. The man knows what he's doing,” Billy said firmly.

The people were milling about gossiping with each other and meeting people from the ranch. They knew the Redbone family and recognized Zelma and Enoch. Naturally, Daffy and Chloe wanted to come along to hear their number-two master play the piano. An older matronly lady came up to socialize with Zelma, backed up, and accidentally stepped on one of Daffy's paws. “Ouch! You step on me, you old cow!” Daffy roared and ran off through the wall of blue electrons. The poor woman got a look of horror on her face. She was an animal lover and was devastated she hurt the poor thing. To make matters worse or more confusing, the dog spoke to her. “Did … did... did he just speak to me?” she managed to get out, “I hurt the poor dear, but where did he go? What's that door?” she asked.

Billy didn't know whether to shit his pants or laugh his ass off. It was a toss up. Chloe came to his rescue, “Don't worry, ma'am, I go get him. I be Chloe, and Daffy be my mate,” Chloe said to the lady.

“Please, please, Dear. Tell him I'm so sorry, and I'll apologize to him if he will only come back,” she said and then added, “I never thought I'd live to see a talking dog, but a pair is beyond wonderful,” she said. The other people were in awe of what they just saw as they watched Daffy disappear into the shimmering blue wall of free-electrons. “Where did he go, Chloe?” she asked.

“Daffy go back to Daniels' ranch, ma'am. I go get him,” Chloe replied.

“I would never hurt Daffy on purpose, and it breaks my heart I accidentally stepped on him. May I go with you, Dear, to apologize to your mate in person?” she asked fearlessly. She was more concerned about the animal she hurt than considering any consequences of the gate.

Chloe looked directly at Billy, and Billy nodded his approval. “Yes, ma'am, you may come with me. It tickles a little when you walk through, but it won't hurt you none,” Chloe said and the two ladies walked through the gate together. The woman's eyes widened at the beauty and open spaces of the ranch. “Come, ma'am, he be over there talking with some of Master Billy's slaves. You may see some unusual things, but just be polite, and I will explain later,” Chloe said. Daffy saw them coming and hid behind the fearsome looking Harley-Buck Johnson with his big horns. Nothing could stop Clara Mae Bastiaen, first chair oboist for the Houston Symphony. She took one look at the big man with horns and squatted down to look at Daffy hiding under his chair.

“Please, Daffy, come to me. I'm so very sorry I stepped on your paw, and you were right to call me an old cow. I was more interested in socializing with Mrs. Redbone than I was looking out for your well-being. I apologize with all my heart. It was an unfortunate accident. Us old cows aren't as agile as we used to be when we were younger, and sometimes we step on people or animals without realizing what we're doing. I certainly didn't mean to, Dear-heart,” Clara Mae said.

“What do you say, Daffy? It sounds like the lady is sincere to me,” Harley-Buck said quietly to the big dog.

Daffy walked to her with his tail tucked and looked her in the eye, “I sorry I call you a cow, Miss Clara,” Daffy said and the old lady started crying as she hugged and kissed the big dog. Everyone went crazy applauding and whistling for Daffy and Clara Mae.

“Now will you come back with us to the rehearsal? You stay close to me. I promise I won't let anyone else step on your paw. I will become your guard cow,” Clara Mae declared. “And you, Mr. Bull, are a wonderful sight to behold. How did you get your horns?” she asked.

“They were a gift of honor from my master for saving a runaway mare who was about to go over a cliff yesterday. He asked what reward I wanted, and I told him I wanted a set of horns,” Harley-Buck explained.

“And your good master would be...?” Clara asked.

“Why, Master Billy Daniels, ma'am. I'm the son of Mr. Harlen Johnson whose main man, Jessie Jones, will be playing with your orchestra today,” he added.

“It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Johnson. Now, shall we go back to Houston, my children?” Clara asked Chloe and Daffy.

“Lead the way, Mom,” Daffy said and everyone laughed.

Clara Mae walked proudly though the wall of blue electrons. Daffy and Chloe followed. She went around introducing her new canine friends to the rest of the orchestra. She recognized the resemblance between Harley-Buck and Harlen, went up to him, and shook his hand. “I just met your son at the Daniels ranch, Mr. Johnson, and I was most impressed with his manners and bearing. I don't know why he's a slave, but I know good people when I meet them, and Harley-Buck definitely qualifies. I love his horns,” she added and smiled.

“Why, thank you ma'am. I've grown fond of him myself,” Harlen started and told Clara Mae the story of Harlen and Harley-Buck only recently discovering they were father and son; they were still learning about each other.

Clara got several Hosanna Cakes and slipped a couple to Daffy and Chloe when she thought no one was looking. Others came over to ask where she went and to see if the rumor of two talking dogs was true. “I walked through and stepped onto the Daniels Ranch in the Hill Country of West Central Texas. It's a gateway back to their ranch. I accidentally stepped on my friend's paw, and I went to apologize and ask his forgiveness,” she said bravely.

“What did you see?” they asked.

“Wonderful things. It's a beautiful place. I would love to visit sometime,” Clara Mae gushed.

The last to arrive was a small oriental woman in a wheel chair with her violin case across her lap. Billy looked over to Zelma Jane, and she winked wickedly. Billy rolled his eyes and grinned. Billy went to the podium, took off his cowboy hat and sailed it expertly across the room to his little brother, who caught it like a pop fly in the bottom of the ninth inning. “Is everyone here? Can you please take your seats, and let's get started. We got a lot of ground to cover. We're starting a bit early because most of your are here – I think,” Billy said, “I want to run through the the Beethoven first,” he added.

“Where's our conductor?” a large bass player asked.

“You's look'n at him, Jack!” Billy replied and grinned.

“How'd ju' know my name is Jack?” he asked.

“Laundry label on the back of your sweater says, Jack Roamer. You're wearing it wrong side out,” Billy replied in his best bored Tommy Lee Jones voice, and the rest of the orchestra howled with laughter.

“What experience do you have, sir?” he asked.

“Enough to pay you handsomely to give me a chance before you judge me, Mr. Roamer,” Billy replied and several of the orchestra members agreed and told Jack to hush up, they needed the money whether he did or not.

They provided Billy with a score, but he didn't open it. He told them exactly what he wanted, gave them a down-beat, and they started into play. Billy stopped them a couple of times. He wanted a faster, more crisp pace, but they insisted on playing slower for some reason. After the third time, he stopped them, and Billy told them of his dissatisfaction. “And you, Mr. Roamer, has your bass fiddle sprung a leak and you got a flat tire or are you just testing the new greenhorn conductor?” he asked.

“What do you mean? I don't know what you're talking about,” Roamer said indignantly.

“Your fellow bass players are playing that last run right, but you're playing a B-flat. I expect you to play it the way Beethoven wrote it, but if you insist on being a maverick, you can pack up your bass, take your leave, and forfeit your fee, sir,” Billy said firmly.

“I'm sorry, sir. I didn't mean to play it wrong. I'll get it right next time,” Roamer replied rather sheepishly.

“Please see that you do. I take a dim view of any man who defiles Beethoven to make his own selfish point,” Billy said even more firmly. “Okay, you folks ain't even trying to meet me halfway. Either you give me what I want, or there ain't no use in us going on. Make up your minds. We can call it quits now or we can try one more time. Which will it be?” he asked.

“The concert master looked around and got a general consensus from the others. “Forgive us, Mr. Daniels, we're trying to cover for some of our older players who can't quite keep up with the rest of us,” he explained, “We'll try to do better. I speak for everyone, sir,” he added.

“How do you get by with your regular conductor? Does he let you get by with mediocre, schlock playing?” Billy asked.

“What conductor?” asked a big bear holding a tuba. “What little we seen of your conducting so far is a damn sight better'n what we got. Our conductor is a political appointee. He got a bachelors degree from Baylor in church music and thinks he know all about conducting an orchestra. We rarely play the classics anymore. Most of it is bad arrangements of church music. The powers that be think symphony orchestras play too much secular music to suit them, and it must be balanced with god-awful religious pablum. I can't remember the last time we played a Beethoven Symphony, sir,” the hefty tuba player complained. “I play in an orchestra to enjoy the classics and jumped with joy when I heard we were going to play Beethoven and Rachmaninoff – to say nothing of getting to hear Haydn and Bach,” he said and several agreed with him.

“What about when a visiting conductor comes?” Billy asked.

Another fine looking younger horn player answered, “They conduct us once and have similar reactions like you just did. Then they refuse to accept any more invitations to conduct. We're losing our integrity as one of the best symphony orchestras in the country. I'm sorry, but you can't make a name for yourself playing insipid arrangements of hymns and dreadful cantatas by third rate composers nobody ever heard of,” he said.

“Is what they're saying true, Mrs. Redbone?” Billy asked using Zelma's formal title.

“I'm afraid so, Son. And you thought I was kidding. Why do you think my mouth waters every time you discover another new talent?” Zelma asked wickedly.

Billy shook his head like he couldn't believe his ears, “All right lets try it again,” Billy said.

They started again and the front chairs of the violins, violas, and cellos responded to Billy, but it became painfully obvious several chairs in the last two rows of the violins couldn't cut it anymore. There were four violin players and one viola player who just couldn't keep up with the others. A young viola player in the first chair leaned toward Billy, “Mr. Roamer needs glasses, Mr. Daniels, and has for sometime; however, he doesn't have the money to go to an eye doctor. He has no health insurance,” she told him, “and my mother and her sister are two of the stragglers in the violin section. They need the money badly, sir. My mother's cancer came back and my aunt's got the cancer now and can't get help,” she said.

“Holy Crap! Tom, I thought we rented the Houston Philharmonic, not the third-string geriatrics unit bench-warmers. I thought they came to play. Is the real Houston Phil playing some-wheres else?” Billy asked. There was a stunned silence. “Sweet Jesus, why does my pa, my beloved Tonto, always have to be right!” Billy shouted and his family broke up laughing. The orchestra had no idea what Billy was laughing about.

“I told you, Master Billy!” Zelma shouted and the family laughed again. “You want an orchestra, build it, just like you rebuilt many of us!” she added firmly. Zelma was dead serious.

“You gonna' lend a hand, Me-maw Redbone?” Billy asked and grinned.

“I'll be right by your side, Son, as will the rest of us,” Zelma shot back without hesitation.

“Then let's do it. Who among you need some medical intervention what affects your playing?” Billy asked.

A number of hands went up. The three violin ladies and the violist. One of the baritone players and Mr. Roamer the bass player.

“Tom, may we use the garden on the roof?” Billy asked.

“Sure, take 'um up on the freight elevator. How many of us will you need?” Tom asked.

“All of you! This is massive, and we'll need you ladies, too. Most of my enhanced posse is here, and we got our Watchers who can also act as intermediary conduits and transits. What's your mother's name, Baby Byrd?” Billy asked the young violist.

“Only my family knows me by that name. I'm her youngest daughter and her name is Selma; my aunt's name is Willamina. My dad, Wilbur Byrd, has rheumatoid arthritis real bad. He plays the baritone, and my brother, Wilbur Junior, plays with him. My older sisters Jane and Martha are violinist in the second row. My cousin, here, in the cellos is Gerry Thomas,” she said.

“My God, the Houston Phil has gone to the Byrds,” Billy said and grinned. He didn't get a laugh. “Sorry, that was a poor attempt at humor. Okay, everyone what needs something fixed, from Momma Byrd all the way down to Baby Byrd follow me. All Byrd relatives and anyone else who needs something fixed. That includes you, Mr. Roamer. Will one of my family please give Miss Mitsiyoko Hasayumi a hand with her wheel chair. Oh, yes, and you, Miss Clara Mae, you come with us, too. I think you could use a new 'leash' on life. I think you deserve it,” Billy said and away they went.

The young violist pulled Billy aside to talk with him privately, “What are you going to do, sir?” Baby Byrd asked.

“Why, I plan to restore them to health, Miss Byrd,” Billy said.

“You can do that?” she asked in awe.

“If I can restore Zelma Redbone, who was dying of cancer, and I can restructure Daffy and Chloe's DNA to allow them to speak, I can fix your mother, your dad, your aunt, and anyone else who comes with us,” Billy replied.

“Where did you get such power? From God? Are you the second coming of Jesus?” she asked.

“No, no, Dear, that's all myth and superstition. I'm just a brown-dirt cowboy what's been enhanced by a couple of ancient races of alien folks who want to help us make a better world for ourselves,” Billy replied, “We can only do it by gaining people's trust and gratitude by being compassionate and giving them freedom from an oppressive top-heavy society, sickness, and disease,” he added.

“Some might see it as the work of the Devil to confuse them, so he can get a foothold on their hearts, minds, and souls,” she said.

“We don't force our gifts on anyone. You may withdraw your mother, father, and other family members if you have such groundless fears. Beyond the state of medical technology available today, how much healing has praying to your imaginary God or a historically doubtful Jesus figure gotten you? Modern medicine was a development in the evolution of man – God or Jesus had nothing to do with it, and unfortunately, your prayers help even less,” Billy argued.

“It could be more complicated than we're capable of understanding. If I don't speak up and say something, they might be in jeopardy of losing their immortal souls,” she replied.

“Like a belief in any god, there is that remote possibility, but highly unlikely. I done healed many others with no bad results nor have I had them sign their souls over to me afterward,” Billy said.

“Wait a minute! I thought I recognized the young boy serving us those wonderful sweet cakes you call 'Hosanna' Cakes. He's the boy, Randy Rutherford – the boy whose life you saved from that terrible crippling disease in the Walmart parking lot in Fredericksburg,” Baby Byrd said, “I recognize you now. You're the man they call the Walmart Cowboy Jesus!” she exclaimed quietly.

“No to the Cowboy Jesus bit, but yes, it was Randy, and now he's my little brother – my cowboy buddy. His sisters, his mother, and grandmother are part of the greater Daniels family. His older sister is playing the cello in a Haydn Trio for our first act at our concert. We call him Bossman Randy because he's a very clever young man and can play Bach like he's channeling Glenn Gould. Does he appear demonic? If so, you been watching too many Addams Family re-runs on Netflix,” Billy said, “I'll admit, at the moment, I'm mostly interested in restoring these people for my own selfish goals of bringing great music to over five-hundred of my family members. How evil can that be? I tell you what! I'll make you a deal you can't refuse.

“Before you open your mouth and throw cold-water on the idea or bring up a topic of religious fear you can't support with actual facts, if you continue to have such fears, discuss them with your family. After I've healed them, they play the concert, I will get from them what I want. My goal will be achieved. I will leave it up to you to tell them whether you will allow them to keep their new lease on life or you want them to go back the way they were, dying horrible deaths due to cancer. I'll give you the power to make that decision,” Billy said, “One word 'no' and they will be returned to the way they were before the concert,” he added.

“You're that powerful? You really could do that?” Baby Byrd asked.

“I can,” Billy replied quietly without a soupçon of being braggadocios,“Thanks to my little brother's insistence, I been brushing up on some 'apps' I can control with my powers, and that's one of them,” he added.

“I don't know if I could make that decision. I wouldn't want to,” Baby Byrd said.

“Then you have your answer. For my gift, they play for me like they haven't in a long time. I get what I want, and when the concert is over, they may go their way without any proselytizing, preaching, or words about burning in Hell forever if they don't bow down and worship me. Neither will they receive an astronomical bill in the mail what would bankrupt the entire family. It will simply be a gift from me to them and you, and nothing more – icing on the cake of your monetary remuneration, so to speak, for your talents and performance, or you might consider it a gratuity for a job well-done,” Billy said.

“You have the silver tongue of a Devil,” Baby Byrd said and smiled.

“The voice of reason has always seems demonic to the dogma and irrational fears of religion, Miss Byrd,” Billy said sincerely.

“Touché!” Baby Byrd said, “I will accept your gift, no matter the consequences, and hope for the best,” she added.

“Wise lady. I assure you there will be no consequences other than a better life for you and your family,” Billy said.

From out of a symphony orchestra with a hundred and four members, forty-two of them, over one-third, felt they had some degree of physical problems which would prompt them to join the group making the pilgrimage to the roof. Several complained of minor problems which could possibly impede their playing, but most were aches, pains, and annoying physical anomalies. Several joined out of curiosity, but Billy warned them their picture and movie 'apps' on their cell phones wouldn't work. There were several disappointed groans, and one young man of Jewish extraction wanted to know about his right to free speech.

“You may tell anyone you meet about what you witness or observe. I'm not swearing you to secrecy. You just can't show them a picture or a video to confirm your claims. It ain't a matter of your rights, it's what you agree to if you decide to come with us. It's fully within my rights to enforce that limitation,” Billy said and grinned.

“That's not fair,” he moaned.

“Would you agree life ain't fair, Mr. Hershbaum? I'm offering you the gift of health, or a better life, and you have the selfish hubris to want more? We ain't doing a remake of 'Oliver,' we're just gonna' do some basic meat-and-potatoes fix-um-up jobs on these good folks. I think you should re-think your priorities and your motivations, Young Man. If you're uncomfortable with my reasoning, don't join us. It's as simple as that,” Billy said firmly and embarrassed him.

“No, I must see for myself. Such extravagant claims should be observed by someone of a different persuasion than the dogma of Christianity; however, we have an old saying: You should never weigh a gift chicken,” he said and smiled.

“Us cowboys got a similar one: You should never look a gift horse in the mouth,” Billy replied.

The forty-two members of the orchestra crowded into the large freight elevator and rose to the top of the building. Billy sent the elevator back down for his family. He was sure there were enough enhanced Cowboy-Angels, Watchers, and general family members he could pull off such a large healing. He watched video after video of healing 'apps' and knew if he stayed within the bounds of those lessons he could accomplished his goal; however, it would mean exposing their invisible protectors to the people who probably never saw one before. Jessie and Harlen asked if they could attend and Billy agreed. They could act as conduits.

Once everyone was on the roof, and the staff left behind were comfortable with serving refreshments to the remaining orchestra members, he locked the elevator so they wouldn't be interrupted. Billy stood on a stone bench in the garden to speak to the people as they gathered. “Here are the ground rules. I will arrange everyone within three circles. You will join hands. In the outer circle will be my family and several very large critters you have heard about but never seen before. They are the Watchers who have been assigned to our world to keep us from self-destructing and wiping each other out. You know them as Bigfoot. They act as our guardians and protectors. They are a gentle but highly intelligent race and come from one of the two ancient races who have enhanced us humans. They have the power to make themselves invisible to humans, but not to children under the age of puberty. We don't know why. Hold someone's hand if you think you might be afraid. Are your ready?” Billy shouted.

“We're ready,” they replied.

“Watchers awake, show yourselves!” Billy commanded, and one by one the giant beast blinked into sight. First was Mouse and his mate Catfish. Then the great white watcher for the McMartin family, Caesar, Bubba's Brute, and the other five nameless Watchers under Bubba's care. Last to appear was Billy's husband, Boomer.

“Ooooh!” went the crowd.

“They will act as capacitors for me to absorb the healing rays of the ether so I might release it to you in manageable doses. They will stand with the outer circle, hand in hand with my family. Now comes the fun part. You get to see me, my family members, and some of my protector-slaves as we really are. Are you ready?” Billy asked.

“We're ready, sir!” they replied.

There was a great flash of light, most of Billy's family except the Watchers and the young boys disappeared and returned almost as quickly, fully fledged with their beautiful wings. Even Zelma, Kate, Roz, Poly, Cass, Enoch, Moss, Nathan, Tron, Hank, Buck, Bubba, Jack, Oatie, Jethro, Elmer, Vox, Cowboy Andy, Mack, Garth, Clyde, Balthazar, the sheriff, Buster, Everett Tate, and a number of other enhanced members stood before them in all their glory.

“My God, you're Angels!” Mr. Byrd exclaimed.

“No, we're just enhanced humans, Mr. Byrd,” Billy replied.

“Can you fly?” one lady asked.

“Of course we can fly, they're real wings. We didn't get these from the Dollar Store,” Zelma said and laughed like the woman was a twit to ask such a dumb question.

“Why don't the young one's have wings?” Baby Byrd asked.

“We can't grow wings until we reach puberty, but we got almost the same powers as the big folks,” Rory explained, “We'll be assisting Master Billy and his posse to help you folks,” he added.

“Those two youngsters got wings,” one lady observed of Poly and Cass.

“They're a different species of humanoid than us. We call them halflings because they're half our size; however, they are fully grown males who have gone through puberty,” Billy explained, “They will be the soloist in the Bach double violin concerto in D. They play two matched Strads so sweetly it will make the angels cry – and they have on several occasions,” Billy added.

“Shall we get started?” Billy asked and started arranging people in circles. There was to be three circles. The greater, outer circle composed of his mixed bag of family. The next circle contained about thirty members of the orchestra, and the center circle would be twelve of the worst cases from the orchestra and Billy's immediate Cowboy-Angel posse of Captain Nick, Balthazar, Clyde, Oatie, Garth, Mack, Cowboy Andy, and Oatie Breedlove. Billy stood in the middle of the inner circle holding hands with Mr. and Mrs. Byrd, her sister, and the Japanese Violinist in the wheel chair. Billy and his Cowboy-Angel posse and the other Cowboy-Angels were without shirts and their perfect bodies were outlined by the massive harnesses they wore. The lady Angels were fully clothed.

“Everyone close your eyes so I don't have to heal your burned retina's from the brightness of the light. You may open them to sneak a peek ever' so often, but don't open them wide or you could do permanent damage to your eyes. Remember that old Indiana Jones movie about the Ark of the Covenant? When they opened it, the Nazi's faces melted? We'll it's nothing like that, but it can be dangerous. My advice is not to chance it, but I also understand human nature. If you must peek, be careful” he shouted, “Everyone ready?” he yelled.

“We're ready, sir,” the crowd replied.

Billy leaned back, looked at the overcast misty sky and shouted at the top of his voice, “Hosanna!”

“Hosanna, in the highest!” his family answered.

The clouds parted in a perfect circle, and the early morning sun came pouring around the gathered group like a spot-light in a Broadway play. Several didn't close their eyes immediately. They watched the enhanced humans raise their wings and start to absorb the sun's rays containing the life-force elements of the universe. They watched the amazing Bigfoot creatures absorb much of the light themselves. Light of pure matter shot out from their bodies into the bodies of the orchestra folks. They were stunned and scared at first until they began to experience the soothing, highly intoxicating feeling of comfort and well-being the light began to afford them. They knew they couldn't hold all the power coming into their bodies and somehow instinctively knew how to channel the flow into the bodies of Master Billy's Cowboy-Angels before them. Finally, the Cowboy-Angels surrounding Master Billy and his group, filtered the most pure essence of the ether to their master, and he imparted it to the four people within his circle.

A great blue plasma bubble began to form around the inner group of Billy and his four people. Several watched through squinted eyes. Baby Byrd watched as Billy and her father gently pulled the Japanese lady, Mitsiyoko Hasayumi, whom everyone called 'Mitsi' to her feet. She got the most radiant smile on her face. Baby Byrd felt her own eyes began to water from tears of joy seeing a woman who lived in a wheel chair all her life standing between her dad and Billy Daniels. She was amazed and gasp along with many of the others to see Billy and his group begin to rise from the ground and float over their heads in the huge blue plasma bubble. It was like they were suspended in the air. Billy slowly raised his wings over his four people and the light from his posse lit him up like an angel on the top of a Christmas tree. It was a truly remarkable, once in a lifetime experience, and more than one pair of eyes were squinting open to get a view of the miraculous phenomenon.

Baby Byrd continued to watch and witnessed her mother's breasts begin to grow back on her chest. She suffered a double mastectomy and had major psychological problems dealing with her loss. She could feel what was happening to her, and she got the most angelic smile on her face. Baby Byrd watched her aunt began to straighten and grow tall again as her cancer flew from her body and exited into the dark matter of the universe. The look on Mr. Byrd's face was one of ecstasy and joy as he could feel the arthritis leaving his body. Billy was being fed more than enough life-force energy from his family to do the great healing with ease. He didn't need each individual's DNA as before when he didn't have such great power available to him. This new found 'app' contained great potential, and he quickly became familiar with it and how to best use it for himself and his family's benefit. They stood together for well over an hour until Billy was satisfied his main, inner circle of worst cases, were completely healed.

“Hosanna!” he shouted again.

“Hosanna, in the highest!” Billy's family echoed, but this time the other folks shouted with them. The family began to power down and the orchestra members were told they could open their eyes. They were stunned and exhausted. Before them, stood the completely whole person of Mitsiyoko Hasayumi with the biggest smile on her face. She waved to everyone and walked around behind her wheel chair to balance herself until she got used to her legs working. Baby Byrd ran to her mother, dad, and aunt, and cried in their arms among massive kisses. She even saved one for Billy.

“That was wonderful, and I will ask no concessions, Master Billy,” said Moyshe Hershbaum, “but didn't that cut into your rehearsal time considerably, sir?” he asked.

“Not really, Mr. Hershbaum, but I'm glad you brought it up. I placed us in a nether region of time and space which passes much more quickly than time for the other folks down below. In other words, it's like using your fast-forward on you DVD player. You're still in normal time, but the movie is going by like a flash. So it was with us. Everyone will need to adjust their time pieces and cell phones to match the current time. You will notice about an hour and a half difference,” Billy explained, “It's still only ten o'clock in the morning downstairs,” he added.

“Amazing!” said Moyshe.

“How you doing, Miss Clara Mae?” Billy asked the fine looking older lady.

“Look at me! You caused me to drop forty pounds. Just look! This dress hangs on me like I'm a mere shadow of my former self. I'm gonna' have to go out and buy new clothes, but I'm not complaining, sir. I could hug and kiss you for my gift, and I feel wonderful. My oboe better be prepared,” she said and laughed. “I hope Daffy and Chloe recognize me,” she added.

“You look great, Miss Clara Mae,” Billy encouraged her.

“Can I call you, Master Billy, Young Man?” she asked.

“Certainly, if you wish. I would be honored, ma'am,” Billy replied.

“No, I will be the one who will be honored, sir, I assure you,” she said firmly.

After many hugs, thanks, and kisses, Billy and his family left their wings in the 'cloakroom' and returned. Billy stood on the stone bench again. “Since you folks are comfortable with our Watchers, I won't ask them to disappear. You may explain them to the folks downstairs. Also in keeping with Mr. Hershbaum's statement about 'free speech' you may tell anyone about what you witnessed here this morning. All I ask is you be discretionary. We ain't yet quite ready to go public. We have a lot more to do before we make our presence known. You can help us by waiting until you hear we have gone public, and it will probably be in about six months when we open our new city in the Hill Country, the Highland Shire Project. You will all be invited,” Billy said and asked if anyone had any questions before they left.

“I understand we're suppose to play on a two-way video to your ranch, Master Billy. Is that right?” Clara Mae asked.

“Yes, ma'am, that's right, Miss Clara,” Billy replied.

“I went through the gate, and it didn't hurt me. Why can't we go through the gate and play in person for your people?” she asked.

“Well, we talked about it, but thought an advanced technology might be too scary for some folks, and we really couldn't do it without the complete orchestras' cooperation. In Texas we're lucky to get two musicians to play the same piece let alone step though a gate of free-electrons,” Billy said and everyone laughed.

“If we can get everyone to go, can you accommodate us, sir?” Mr. Byrd asked.

“Sure, we just built a brand new stage on the back of our old barn. It might be a bit cramped for such a large orchestra, but it would be manageable. On the upside, we'll feed you the best damn barbecued brisket or chicken you ever tasted; however, you must be prepared to see some unusual things. Right, Miss Clara?” Billy asked.

“I didn't see nothing strange about a cowboy wearing a fine looking set of horns, Master Billy,” she said and broke into laughter. Billy's family knew she must have run into Harley-Buck and laughed with her.

“He asked for them horns, and I gave them to him as a badge of honor for his heroic effort to save a frightened mare from stampeding over a cliff. I think he looks quite handsome in them. He can also remove them if need be,” Billy said.

“We wanna' go to the ranch,” several others said, “we want to see more of your world, sir,” they declared.

“Let's see how the rehearsals go, shall we?” he asked, and they grumbled like a receding storm claiming they would do their very best.

Everyone went back downstairs, and they discovered Billy was telling the truth. The rest of the orchestra claimed they just left minutes ago. How could they be returning so quickly? How come they all looked years younger, and Mitzi was walking behind her wheelchair? They thought Billy's claims of healing was the stuff of the Twilight Zone. It could never happen. They saw the Byrds looking healthy and in their prime. They were in awe of them. It was remarkable.

“If I can have your attention, if the folks who went with us upstairs feel a bit dehydrated may I recommend a jar of our fresh herbal-spiced tea to refresh you. It's something we been experimenting with, and I would like to get your feedback how you respond to it. Feel free to have more of our Hosanna Cakes. We plan to be marketing the sweet treats within the next six months. Enjoy yourselves for a few minutes, and then, lets get back to it,” Billy said and everyone agreed.

* * * * * * *
Billy stood before the orchestra and looked at them. It was like he was looking at a different group of people. They were sitting up straight in their chairs like they were ready to go. The session upstairs and the tea seemed to work miracles for them.

“Is everyone a happy camper?” Billy asked and everyone laughed, “We got any angry Byrds among us?” Billy asked and they laughed again.

“No angry Byrds, Master Billy,” Mr. Byrd spoke for his family.

“Good, we don't want no angry Byrds. Let us try the Beethoven again. You know what I want. Now give it to me. Blow my big cowboy ass off this damn podium!” he exclaimed.

“Hosanna!” yelled Randy and everyone except the section of the orchestra who stayed behind echoed, “Hosanna, in the highest!” everyone laughed.

Billy gave the down beat, and they damn near blew him off the podium. Billy made it even better for them by acting like he was blown away. Billy could be a convincing clown when he wanted. They stopped and laughed at him as he crawled on his hands and knees back up onto the podium. “Now that's what I want to hear, people! That was wonderful! Let's take it from the top, and this time, lets try to get through the first movement,” he said, and they began again.

The orchestra put their all into it. The violins in the second chairs were keeping up like their asses were on fire, and they were running for the creek. The more they played the more they listened to each other and began to coalesce into the great symphony orchestra they knew they could be. Zelma Jane Redbone almost wet her panties. She knew Billy was going to be a talent to be reckoned with, but she never imagined he might become a true Maestro. The orchestra played on and on. Billy only stopped them once to repeat a small section the way he wanted them to play it. They responded immediately. By the end of the first movement the orchestra was back to its old self, and they knew it. You could feel the personal pride radiating from them. Their renewed sense of self-confidence in themselves was palpable.

When the last note sounded Billy's family went nuts and were applauding, whistling, and throwing their hats at the orchestra. The members of the orchestra stood and applauded their conductor. The concert master shook his hand and wouldn't let go.

Mr. Byrd stood, “Master Billy, I think I speak for our orchestra. Thank you, sir, for what you have done for us. We haven't played like that in years. We owe you a great debt of gratitude, sir,” he said and sat down. The orchestra applauded again for Billy.

“That was wonderful. Let's make beautiful music together. I know we can. Work with me and we will accomplish something we all can be proud of,” Billy said and they started on the second movement. This time they didn't stop until they finished the piece. Billy pushed them to the max and demanded they follow his every move. Billy wasn't a flamboyant conductor. He was conservative, but every move he made meant something to someone in the orchestra and they responded in kind.

The ending of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony is one of the most powerful musical statements of all time. When they played the final note, everyone was stunned by the brilliance of Billy and the orchestra's reading. Then all Hell broke loose with more applause, stomping of boots, Bigfoot growls, hat tossing, great dogs barking, whistling, and general mayhem. The orchestra was quite proud of themselves and their new cowboy conductor.

About that time a little winged creature flew through the gate from the ranch and started flying around over the orchestra's head looking at them. The orchestra was stunned and never saw anything so cute. Sheriff Tate jumped up and hollered at the winged pup, “Gotdamn it, Gracie! Yore' momma done told you not to fly through that gate! You come to me this instant, Little Girl!” Will yelled at her and the orchestra laughed.

“Come to me, Gracie!” Billy shouted, “If'n you don't, that mean old Sheriff just might throw you in jail, lock you up, and throwaway the key,” Billy hyperbolized and the pup flew to Master Billy's arms. Billy cuddled her and the orchestra was going 'ooh' and 'aaah' over how cute she was. “Why did you disobey your mom, Gracie?” he asked.

“Oh, Master Billy, I heard such wonderful music coming through the gate, I just had to come and check it out. You know us dogs got much better hearing than you humans,” she said and the orchestra went nuts laughing at her.

“Say 'hello' to the New Improved Houston Symphony Orchestra, Gracie,” Billy said.

“Hi, ya'll. Ya'll sure play real good. Are you coming to the ranch to play for me and all my cowboy and cowgirl brothers and sisters?” she asked.

“Many of us would certainly like to, Sweetheart,” Clara Mae said, “but we have to take a vote on it. Some of our folks might be afraid of the new technology of stepping through a gate and finding themselves six hundred miles from Houston in the Hill Country of West Central Texas,” she said like she was pitching her idea.

“I sure hope you do. Ya'll make a beautiful racket,” Gracie allowed and the orchestra went bananas laughing.

“Tell them about your family, Gracie,” Billy prompted her. He suddenly saw Gracie was the grease to get everyone thinking about going through the gate to see what other wonders they might discover.

“I have three brothers, and two sisters; they can talk and fly like me. So can mom, but she don't talk as much as we do. Most times she just yells 'no' at us when we do stuff she don't like,” Gracie said and giggled impishly. The orchestra went crazy laughing at her honesty. She was so damn cute. They couldn't imagine six rambunctious pups with wings what could talk. It boggled the mind.

“Do you love me, Gracie?” Billy asked.

“You know I love you, Master Billy. You done brought me into this world and saved my life. Master Will done told us about you and Master Oatie working to make me start breathing and get my heart pumping,” she said in her little voice. She was winning the last heart in the orchestra. They couldn't imagine such a wonderful intelligent little creature in this world, and they were curious to see more.

“Who are your favorite people on the ranch?” Billy asked.

“I don't have no favorites, Master Billy, I love ever' body, but I'm awfully fond of them Sun Bears what can fly. They invite me to go flying with them sometimes, and they help me when I get tired. They can dance real good, too. I love to watch them dance,” Gracie said.

“Will you sing a song with me, Gracie?” Billy asked.

“In front of all these gifted people, Master Billy?” she asked.

“Sure. Show them what a beautiful voice you have,” Billy said.

“You think I have a pretty voice?” Gracie asked, flirting with Billy.

“You know I do. Someday, maybe you can sing with a wonderful orchestra like this,” Billy said.

“We'll I ain't never thought about a career in music – but why not? What do you wanna' sing, Master Billy?” Gracie asked.

“How about: You are my sunshine?” Billy asked.

“Okay, I like that song. You start, and I'll join you,” she said. The orchestra was sitting on the edge of their seats like they were waiting for Horowitz to play for them.

“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine,” Billy started quietly not to overpower Gracie's sweet little voice. She joined him almost immediately a third higher than him, and they sang one verse in perfect harmony together. When they finished Billy held her to his face and stole a kiss. The people in the orchestra were about to come unglued at the seams and lavished applause on the duo as Gracie shamelessly stole more doggie kisses from her big brother. That did the trick. Everyone wanted to walk through the gate to find out what was on the other side.

“Can I stay and listen, Master Billy?” she asked.

“If you stay with Daffy and Chloe over there and mind your manners. You can't be flying about while Master Jessie is playing the piano or the orchestra is playing. It would be too distracting for them,” Billy explained.

“I promise, I'll be good,” Gracie said.

“Yeah, right,” Billy said and got a laugh from the orchestra. “All right, I'm gonna' hold you to it,” Billy added and Gracie flew over to Chloe who allowed her to lay down between her big paws. It reminded Billy of the 'Peaceable Kingdom' paintings by Edward Hicks.

* * * * * * *
Billy announced they would play the Rachmaninoff Rhapsody next, and called for Jessie to come to the piano. Usually the orchestra tunes to the lead oboe, but when a solo instrument is involved, they tune to it. Jessie played an 'A' for the orchestra to tune. When everyone was ready Billy showed them the tempo he wanted to begin. After they observed him beat several measures, he started again with a downbeat, and they responded perfectly.

Jessie drank his mug of herbal-spiced tea and was in a mellow mood. He launched into the the Rhapsody like it was a stroll in the park on a warm spring afternoon. His artistry and precision delivery stunned everyone in the orchestra, and they responded in kind, pulled themselves up, and delivered one of the finest accompaniments for a piano soloist they could remember. Billy didn't have to stop once and Jessie played the piece from beginning to end flawlessly. The family and orchestra fell in love with Jessie and his playing. The orchestra members were standing and shouting as loud as the family for their guest soloist.

Billy allowed a brief break for everyone after Jessie's stunning performance of the Rachmaninoff Rhapsody. Each orchestra member came up and congratulated him and told him they looked forward to playing with him at the concert. Everyone planned to go through the gate to the ranch, but the harpist and percussion players were concerned about moving their instruments.

“No problem. They will be on-stage shortly after you arrive,” Billy promised, and they seemed relieved.

Billy got everyone's attention and said after the first number of the string trio, his halfling brothers would perform the Bach Double Violin Concerto in D Minor and he needed two first violins, two second, two violist. He asked the concert master and his number two if they would play first violins, and he asked Momma Byrd and her sister, Auntie Byrd, if they would play second. They seemed thrilled Billy would call on them and readily agreed. Baby Bird and her cousin volunteered for the violas and the chamber orchestra was complete with Roz playing cello and Aunt Helen playing the double-bass. Billy suggested everyone remain until they finished the rehearsal for the Bach, then they would go through the gate to the ranch together. Those not playing in the chamber orchestra found seats. Billy sat down at his electronic harpsichord to play the continuo with Roz and Aunt Helen. They noticed he didn't have any music. Billy and the boys played the concerto so many times, they could play it from memory. The orchestra didn't know their conductor could play and were even more amazed he could play well. They were impressed.

Billy explained Poly and Cass would play a duo cadenza at the end of the first movement and explained how they would break before the last da capo and resume with the orchestra after their final trills to the end of the piece.

“But the Bach Double in D minor doesn't have a cadenza, sir,” the concert master said.

“It does now, Mr. Winston,” he replied and grinned, “It's purely my little brother's improvisation with my accompaniment on harpsichord playing mostly continuo, but they are generous enough to allow me a brief moment to show off,” he added.

When Poly and Cass brought out their matched Stradivarius violins, there were a few gasps and envied glances at them, but when they heard them play a few bars they became positively green with envy. “They're perfectly matched – like the twins, they are almost identical in sound and tone quality,” Mr. Winston allowed, “Amazing,” he added.

For the sake of time, Billy told Poly and Cass to only play a couple of measures of the cadenza and go into the trill, and at the performance, they could let themselves go. They understood, and they started to play the concerto. The rest of the orchestra was stunned by their playing with Billy conducting from the keyboard. They were equally impressed with Roz and Aunt Helen's supporting basso-continuo. When they finish the last movement, everyone was on their feet applauding with more mayhem. The orchestra members were beginning to feel like they were members of Billy's family and joined in the fun. They couldn't remember when they had such a good time at a rehearsal. Maybe the herbal-spiced tea had something to do with it, but they seemed genuinely sincere with their lavish compliments for Billy and his musicians. They finished right at twelve-thirty and had time to get through the gate, clean up a little, and get ready for the Saturday afternoon barbecue.

The orchestra members gathered their instruments and two by two walked through the shimmering blue wall of free-electrons onto the Daniels Ranch where they were met by gracious cowboys and cowgirls who showed them to the new stage to leave their instruments. When the larger instruments came though, they were taken away from the man or woman and carried for them. They were impressed and were allowed to talk freely with Billy's slaves. They found them highly intelligent and open with their feelings and how much they enjoyed living and working for Master Billy and the Daniels family.

No one had a bad word to say about their life on the ranch. The ranch hands treated the orchestra members like they were visiting royalty. Most noted, the percussion instruments and harps were already there. Jessie decided on the Yamaha for his performance at the ranch because of its brightness in the upper registers, and it was in place. The stage looked a bit smaller than they were used to, but they felt they could make do. They liked the tiered effect and each section was on a different level until the percussion and larger brass and double-basses were on the top row. Everyone could see the front of the stage and the conductor better.

Kate rang the triangle at one o'clock, but Billy and his posse and the boys got into the wagon to carry food and treats down to the river for the wild Bigfoot and Daddy Long-legs. There was a second wagon and it was being filled with extra hands to help distribute the food. When the orchestra members found out, several asked if they could go along to help. Mr. Byrd, the concert master, Mr. Winston, his second, Jerry Evanrude, Mr. Byrd's son, Wilbur, and Moshye Hershbaum wanted to go.
Billy allowed them to come along, and they jumped into the back of the wagon with the rest of the men. They were fascinated by the fact the Daniels family always seemed to do everything together as a family – not from a sense of religious beliefs, but from a deep social bonding from believing in trying to do good and live comfortably with each other and their fellow critters on the planet. Billy didn't want Harlen and Jessie along as it was their day to shine, but they insisted anyway.

It took them a little longer than usual. While the men in the wagon were shown what and how to distribute the food, four of the Watchers were carrying a huge monster Bigfoot on a makeshift stretcher made of tree branches woven together. It was obvious his leg was split open and bleeding profusely. One of the Daddy Long-legs knew enough emergency medicine he quickly removed his overalls and asked his stronger watcher buddy to rip them into long shreds. He tied them together and made a tourniquet, wrapped it around the great beast's leg and twisted it with a big stick to shut off the flow of blood. It was Leatherface's overalls Ramrod Randy gave him. He was one of the few naked Daddy Long-legs that afternoon but no one said a word.

Billy's posse disappeared in a flash of light and returned in an instant fully fledged. The concert master and his second didn't go with them to the roof and it was the first time they saw the cowboys morph into Cowboy-Angels. The other men told them they witnessed it earlier when Master Billy and his Cowboy-Angels healed them. Billy and his crew set about to heal the giant. It only took them about twenty minutes. By that time most of the others were fed and received their treats. Billy offered to Angel-flight the huge Bigfoot, Leatherface, and his partner to the barn where he could recover better, but they declined. The cowboys didn't leave until the monster Bigfoot could get up and walk by himself. They fed them like the others and gave them the same treats to enjoy during the concert. Billy sent Leatherface a mental message. << You know you are welcome to join us. I can restore your face as it was before. If it's an embarrassment, for whatever reason, I have other's DNA on file and can give you a different face of your choice, >> he sent to him. Leatherface didn't respond but took Billy's hand and humbly bowed his head in thanks. As he gently kissed the back of the cowboy's hand, tears dropped from his eyes onto Billy's hand.

The men returned to the main compound and parked the wagons. They went to get their food and sat down with a group of family and straggler orchestra members who were eating. Billy noticed they were drinking his herbal-spiced tea and smiled to himself. Talk was lively in anticipation of the concert which would begin about thirty minutes after everyone was fed. The crowd around Billy was complimentary, and they were full of questions. They marveled at the smaller folks of village people, the flying Sun Bears, the non flying Sun Bears, and the giants. Gog, Joe the blue giant, and his smaller brother, Willie; Tron, Zeus, and Big Blue could be seen over the heads of the normal sized folks. They found them and Harley-Buck Johnson wonderful and exotic; to say nothing of Panther man, Lion man, and the Dragon man, Raza.

The orchestra members were shocked when they saw the size of the audience of the morphed cowboys and cowgirls to the unusual crowd from Captain Nick's ship to the Bigfoot and Daddy Long-legs in the balcony seats high upon the limestone cliffs overhanging the beautiful Llano river. Billy managed to accommodate more than half the Irin cattle and have them morph into humanoid form. There was three hundred of them and only two hundred left in cattle form. Billy planned to incorporate the rest within the next few weeks, and another five-hundred would be instantly delivered to their ranch. What interested them most was the cattle were standing behind the rest of the audience like they were there to enjoy the music as much as the rest of the folks. They couldn't have been more right.

They took their places on the stage and the audience came to a hush. Master Billy walked on stage to a tumultuous applause from everyone gathered. The cattle were yelling and stomping their hooves for their master. The orchestra members grinned and looked at each other; they couldn't believe they would be playing to such a large, unusual audience, but they also saw it as a challenge and a new and wonderful experience for them. They would remember the day the rest of their lives. Billy announced their first performance of the Haydn String Trio in G would be played by their very own string players, Roz Cumber, Kayla Rutherford, and Aunt Helen Kirkendall. A few yelled their encouragement. “Good luck, lovely ladies!” “We love you, Kayla!” “Beat that thing to death, Aunt Helen!” the audience yelled. The orchestra got the giggles. It was all so bizarre, but in the setting, it seemed fitting.

The string trio played flawlessly. Kayla was even better than she was in rehearsal, and the other two ladies allowed her to shine. When they finished, the audience went berserk. It was their folks playing for them, and they damn-well wanted to show their appreciation. There were many yells in favor of one or the other, but many yelled how proud they were of Kayla. Kayla got a big smile on her face and bowed to her admirers.

Next on the program was the chamber orchestra, and as they were setting up, Billy's men came carrying a fantastic real harpsichord onto the stage. Not only was it a magnificent antique looking instrument with two eight foot stops and one four foot stop, it had a huge box with pedals which fit underneath the instrument with another two eight foot stops and one sixteen foot. It was a pedal harpsichord like Bach would practice on in cold weather because it would cost too much to heat the church for him to practice on the organ.

“Do I need to ask where this came from?” Billy asked his men who had big grins on their face.

“There was a card left on top, Kemosabe,” Captain Nick said and grinned.

Billy opened it and saw in a bold handwriting: For your first official grand concert. May you live a good, long life, and conduct many more concerts. The universe will be watching and listening. Hosanna! Break a leg, Son! And it was signed: Ramrod Matthew Quigley.

“That wonderful and thoughtful old Irin cowboy potentate – Hosanna on him!” Billy exclaimed.

“Hosanna, in the highest!” his crew responded softly.

After Billy's men got the harpsichord situated, he sat down and smiled at his musicians. “This is new. It was a gift from the leader of the Irin race for our first official concert. Play from your hearts people. We are being watched by untold numbers in the universe at this moment,” he said and smiled.

Poly and Cass were ready. Billy set his hands on the harpsichord keys, nodded his head for a downbeat, and they began. The harpsichord was a magnificent instrument. Billy could not only play the chords, but he could also double the bass line being played by Roz and Aunt Helen. They played the first movement to the last coda, and the orchestra broke off for Cass, Poly, and Billy's improvised cadenza. They started out conservative enough, but as they went along they tossed the theme and counterpoint back and forth like a tennis match at Wimbledon. After Poly and Cass exhausted their display, they dropped out and allowed Billy a couple of minutes to display his ability on the grand pedal harpsichord, and it was his moment to shine. The folks in the orchestra's mouth's dropped open at their young conductor's virtuoso playing. They came to believe, Billy Daniels was far more than he appeared to be on the surface. Poly and Cass rejoined their master, played a great ending cadence with trills to indicate the orchestra should rejoin them with a nod from Master Billy's head, and it was accomplished. The coda was played and the piece ended.

They played the last two movements and it was like Poly, Cass, and Billy's show of musicianship in the cadenza grabbed the chamber musicians by their souls. It inspired them to dig deep to make the middle and last movement something of great beauty. When they finished, there was a stunned silence, and then all Hell broke loose. There are no words to describe the appreciation of the audience, but Billy came to judge how well they played by the number of cowboy hats tossed onto the stage. The chamber musicians took a bow and they, in turn, applauded for the principals, Poly, Cass, and Master Billy. Billy shook hands with each musician and got a hug and a kiss from Momma Byrd, Auntie Byrd, Baby Byrd, and cousin Byrd.

“How can we ever thank you for your gifts, Master Billy,” Momma bird asked him.

“By being good to your fellow man, loving your neighbor as you would your own family, and don't be a stranger. You and your family are welcome here whenever you can get away. Let me know, and I'll make arrangements for you to gate down,” Billy told her.

The players took their places in the orchestra and the time arrived for the Beethoven. Billy walked out onto the stage amid loving applause, and he waved for the audience to be quiet. “Today, we have gathered a great number of wonderful musicians to play a symphony by the great German composer Ludwig Von Beethoven for you. It was composed over two hundred years ago and is still one of the greatest works of music ever written by mankind. The only word for it is: heroic. It is the work of a musical genius. Please don't applaud until you see the red light come on over the stage. If it's still green, it means there's more music to come,” Billy added and walked to the podium.

The orchestra was poised and ready, like a great jungle cat about to attack its prey. Billy smiled to the orchestra, gave a downbeat, and the audience was blown away by the power and grandeur of the music. They never heard anything like it before. They were sitting on the edge of their chairs leaning forward to meet the joyous sounds of music as it washed over them, wave after wave. Even the giant beasts on the cliff side were stunned by the shear power and majesty from the sound of music the guest musicians were playing.

Kate was holding Zelma Jane's hand, gently squeezed it, and leaned over to her, “Please, Dear, wipe the spittle from around your mouth. You're embarrassing me,” she said dryly and Zelma complied by gently wiping her mouth with her kerchief.

“Kate, this is way beyond my expectations for your grandson. Billy has a way of getting what he wants from people with love and kindness no one else seems to be able to duplicate. This is nothing short of phenomenal. Listen! That orchestra is not only in love with our cowboy, they're shamelessly making love to him with their instruments. It most certainly would be considered lewd and lascivious if it wasn't in the form of music. It's like listening to them have one orgasm after another. I've never heard this symphony orchestra, this group of musicians play so well. It's exciting and makes every gland in my body function overtime,” Zelma declared dramatically in her defense.

“I have no words, Precious. I had great hopes for Billy, but I was afraid he never took his talent seriously. I hope this experience opens him up to what beauty and joy he can bring to others through his music,” Kate replied.

“I don't think you have to worry. He looks like he's riding that unruly herd like a professional bronco buster. He will either tame them or ride them down hard,” Zelma observed and the ladies shared a laugh.

The final chord was played, the light over the stage changed from green to red and, once again, all Hell broke loose. The orchestra members were almost frightened. They never heard an audience go bat-shit crazy like Billy's slaves and family. Even the stomping of Bigfoot and Daddy Long-legs were jumping around and hooting like great apes in the jungle. Cowboy hats came sailing through the air and there was a standing ovation for several minutes. Billy took a bow, shook hands with the concert master and his second. He shook hands with the first chair in each section and got a hug and a kiss from Clara Mae. “This is the second most wonderful experience in my long life, Master Billy. The first was becoming a part of your extended family,” she said, “Thank you, sir,” she added.

“Anyone with a heart as big as yours is certainly welcome in our family, Miss Clara Mae. By the way, Darlin,' your solo cadenza in the first movement was nothing short of boffo!” Billy exclaimed.

All the while the audience was still applauding and calling Billy's name. He motioned for the entire orchestra to stand and take a bow; then, he walked to the front of the stage and raised his hands to silence them. “Thanks for your love and enthusiasm. It is most welcome and appreciated; however, we have another piece of music ready for you, in which our guest artist Jessie Jones will play with the orchestra. Give us a minute to bring out the piano. Sit down, relax, and enjoy the rest of the performance. Thank you for being so gracious and becoming a part of my family,” Billy said and got another round of applause. They finally settled down and took their seats. Billy's staff was bringing in the new Yamaha concert grand. Billy walked off stage to gather Jessie.

“You ready, Brother?” he asked.

“Oh yeah,” Jessie replied, “Ain't never been so ready. God, I love that tea!” he exclaimed, and they shared a laugh.

The men walked on stage together to more applause. Jessie took a bow and sat down at the piano. The light over the stage went from red to green. Billy gave a downbeat, and they were off on another musical adventure. The Rachmaninoff Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini was almost a hundred and eighty degree departure from Beethoven's heroic symphony, but the exquisite writing and the lush romanticism of the work sucked you in like a comfortable old whore on a backstreet in Paris.

It was another tour de force on all three parts; Jessie's, the orchestra's, and Billy's. Jessie played equally flawlessly as he did in rehearsal, only he seemed even more self-confident and at ease with himself than he did several hours before. It was like he walked through a door from amateur musician to become a pro. When he played the eighteenth variation Zelma and Kate later swore to Billy, there wasn't a dry eye on the ranch. Many of the musicians had tears in their eyes. They never experienced such virtuoso playing from a relatively unknown musician. They were grateful just to be a part of Jessie's blooming.

* * * * * * *
The first part of the Barnyard Concert was over. The orchestra was told they could return through the gate, the guards at the McMartin's warehouse would see them to their vehicles, and they would be allowed to go on their way. Or if they chose, they could stay for the rest of the entertainment and leave later. The guards would be there around the clock. Only a handful of musicians had other pressing matters to attend to and left. The rest joined the audience and could only imagine what would be next on the program.

Billy planned to show off his indigenous musicians and native folks dancers and called upon the village musicians under the capable direction of Maestro Moehair. The piano was removed and the village musicians took the stage. They played several pieces of ancient music on their viols, shawms, crumhorns, sackbutts, and viola de gambas. They made a glorious racket. They played several traditional village dances and young couples in their full colorful native costumes danced onto the stage. The young men were quite acrobatic and they entertained the crowd for an hour or more.

Their last piece was one of the Sun Bears native dances, and they took the stage. There were many gasps of awe at the cute little critters dressed in their bright costumes dancing their traditional native dances. Everyone loved the Sun Bears, and they got a standing ovation. The village musicians left the stage and Billy took over. He and his group decided to rediscover an old war horse they did with the Sun Bears when they first came to live at the ranch. Billy took the microphone and explained to the audience who didn't know about the Sun Bears the plight of their existence. How rare and precious they were, and they were very probably the last of their kind. They were at the ranch to live under Billy's protection until they could enlarge their kind and make their own choices.

“When we first discovered each other, they were slaves of some nefarious pirate traders and forced to perform ridiculous acts which were demeaning and beneath their talents. We worked up a dance to Stravinsky's music for Petrushka and we would like to perform it for you this afternoon. The Sun Bear musicians, Poly and Cass, sat down to play their instruments before the Yamaha grand. Billy sat at the piano, gave the count of three, and they launched into the ballet score to Petrushka.
Billy played the entire score from memory and played it well. Jessie never heard this side of Billy's musical abilities and was in awe of his talent. The flightless Sun Bears danced onto the stage and began the choreography of their native dances to Stravinsky's music and it worked. Everyone sat watching in rapt attention. The orchestra personnel were even more impressed with Billy's talents, but the Sun Bears won the day. They were wonderful and never missed a beat.

* * * * * * *
The final portion of the program was the get-down country part. Etienne Boudreaux came on the stage with his squeeze box. Billy and the rest of his family joined him with guitars, banjos, mandolins, fiddles, and bass. It was obvious it was the most relaxed part of the evening's entertainment. Everyone let their hair down, enjoyed themselves, and had a good time. Most of the orchestra members slowly began to leave to return to Houston, but a few stayed to the end and had a small supper with the Daniels family. Clara Mae was one of them. She loved everyone of Miranda's pups and adored Daffy and Chloe. Billy personally saw her and the final orchestra members through the gate to thank them again and wish them well. A new bond was formed which would last for years.

* * * * * * *
After Billy returned to the ranch, the other family members slowly left for their homes until the Daniels were down to their core family. That's when the work for the following day began. They couldn't get much done with the Breedlove family around, but after they left, Billy's posse went into action. Hank and Buck provided the Boudreaux family with the fixings for five gallons of Filé Gumbo and bought twenty pounds of fresh crayfish and the makings for five gallons of Crawfish Étouffée.
Billy also provided the funds for five gallons of Dirty Rice, five gallons of white rice, and five gallons of brown rice to ladle the gumbo and Étouffée over. Rice is a staple in Cajun country and makes the main dish go further. The entire Boudreaux family worked Saturday morning cooking everything for Billy to take with him to Oregon for Coo-zone Veed and Cleet's going away party in Tall Pine. They delivered it when they came to the festivities for Saturday afternoon, and it was carefully secreted away when the Breedloves were occupied elsewhere.

They brought it in new five gallon plastic buckets with lock-tight fitting lids. It was carefully refrigerated and stored to be loaded into the school bus just before their departure. Billy's posse worked for several hours before they were satisfied they got everything ready for their trip through the gate to the forest of North West Oregon. Billy made sure they put Randy to bed early enough, so he would be sharp and alert the next morning. After Billy thanked and praised his posse for their hard work and dedication for making the day a great success, he dismissed them to get some rest. Morning would come early. There would be church, and they would be off to Oregon immediately upon return. Billy and his immediate family retired to the line-cabin where they hastily prepared themselves for bed.

Everyone was exhausted and were moving about like zombies. They finally got to bed, and the promise of a good night's sleep overtook them. Billy was lying in his pa's big arms listening to his quiet breathing. “Go to sleep, Cowboy,” he heard Nick whisper and stole a kiss, “You done good today – but could you tone it down just a little. You's git'n the reputation of being a young god and you know what an anathema that idea is to you,” Nick teased.

“I's just having a little fun and probably showing off a mite too much,” Billy said humbly.

“I'm just shit'n you, Kemosabe. I ain't never been so proud of you as I was today. You're coming into your own, Billy. It won't be long now before them ancients reveal everything you need to know,” Nick said softly.

“Will it help? Will it make things easier?” Billy asked.

“You never know with them ancients, especially your uncle-in-laws; however, you's so special to them, I'm bet'n on them giving you a full deck to play with – no holds barred,” Nick replied.

“I'm glad I got you and Boomer by my side, Pa,” Billy said.

“We wouldn't be no-wheres else, Son. We love you, and we believe in you,” Nick whispered and gently kissed Billy on his lips, “Now, rollover and go to sleep,” he ordered.

“I love you, too, Pa,” Billy sighed, yawning, stretching, as he slipped into a deep comfortable sleep cradled in the loving arms of his Demon Dad with the full approval of a universe which was justifiably proud of him.

End of Chapter 60 ~ Seek Him What Made Them Seven Stars
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Mail to: Waddie Greywolf <[email protected]>
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10/04/2013
01/08/2017