The Man In Black

The man in black alit from the stagecoach that hot and sultry day. With his hat he brushed dust from his suit as he surveyed old Santa Fe. He pulled his hat down over his eyes as he strode to the nearby saloon. Who was this mysterious stranger? A gambler or a business tycoon? There was a prominent bulge under his coat where a pistol might be. He carried a fine leather valise, its contents provoking curiosity! He was clad in the finest cloth and was built like an old rugged oak, Wore white linen, fine leather boots, topped off with a stylish cloak! He sat down with a sigh, took off his hat and ordered a bottle of rye. He took not a nip but said, "Fellows, step up! A drink for you I'll buy!" That was unusual - free booze - they scarcely knew what to think! But the town rabble and ne'er-do-wells flew to his table for a drink! In the meantime, the sheriff received word about this new man in town. He rushed to the saloon with hands on his rods to calm things down! "What's yer business here, pilgrim? I don't want any trouble! If you're here to gamble or pimp, you kin leave town on the double!" "Calm down, mister sheriff! I aim to help you in maintaining the peace! To deal with those who flaunt the law and help crime to decrease! May I introduce myself, sir. I'm the Reverend Mister Percival Brown, And I aim to settle here and build a Presbyterian church in your town!" Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired © All Rights Reserved