Books and Writings by Norah Griggs and Barbara Paulson

Prelim: After observing  the Reverend Joshua Baker interact with Susan in her restaurant and then having his own interchange with her, Henry meets up with Joshua at the saloon across the street.

        No Going Back, Chapter Seven, Page 42

The thought of a woman having told him what to do angers Henry something awful; surmising the only thing a good man could do was walk away.

He enters the saloon, adjusts his eyes to the dimness and sees the man, Joshua, leaning against the bar, glass of whiskey in hand. He walks up, leaving a respectable space between them, and orders a beer, “And make it a cold one.”

“Didn’t I just see you at that woman’s place?” the Reverend asks as he motions his head toward the restaurant.

“Yes, I’ve been traveling for a while and was hungry.” Then Henry blurts out, “Had I known she was against the ways of the Lord, I never would’ve gone in there.”

Caught off guard, Joshua takes a moment before he speaks. “Well, my brother, she is a sinful woman and it’s too bad because she’s a very strong and beautiful woman.”

“Where is this church of yours?”

Joshua looks around the room. “The Lord did not intend for my church to be within the confines of a building.” Then looking directly at Henry, “I will take you there anytime you would like.” He takes a drink. “State your name, brother, and tell me what brings you here all tired and looking weary. Let’s go sit down and you can tell me all about yourself.”

Joshua orders them each another drink and makes his way to a table in the dark corner. Henry follows, as he is taken by the attention the Reverend is granting him. He begins to tell this stranger everything; about the way his wife ran off with a gambling man; how he put the pieces together; because one day in town, he had heard the man talking about Virginia City, Nevada; and he’s going to bring her back.

A few beers later, he’s talking about his insane mother and the ranch she owns but that he should own because of his dreadful childhood and the terrible secrets he had to keep.

Feeling quite pleased with himself, Joshua listens intently, and in disbelief at his incredible stroke of luck; running into this man, who is a lot like himself, only somewhat stupid.

“You look tired and much in need of rest, my son. Come out to my ranch and spend a few days, and I will help you. Your wife must be dealt with, and I can teach you some scriptures that will help. No need to rush off, you need a plan, please allow me to help.” Careful not to be too forceful; he knows this kind likes to feel in control. “What do you say? A day or two of rest and some good meals, then you can be on your way.”

Henry nods yes, because he is tired and could use the advice of someone trustworthy. The two men head outside, mount their horses and head out of town.