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Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern
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Subject: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Lonesome EJ Date: 22 Jan 00 - 11:52 PM It's the year of 1833, and tucked into the bend of a broad flat Western river is a small log structure that bears the name Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post,Trapping Supplies,and Tavern. Several beaver pelts dry in the sun, a tepee surrounded by several Indian women is pitched just downstream. Inside, there is a combination bar and sales counter composed of several smooth pine planks sitting atop oak barrels. The walls are bedecked with traps, pelts,and antlers. Canned goods and dry goods are stacked in corners. A heavy-set bearded man sits at a table playing Betsy from Pikeon a fiddle, while a smiling Indian boy sits in the sawdust watching him and smiling. Me? I'm the General Manager for Mr Mudcat Spiegel, currently visiting family back in Philadelphia, in the United States. Name's Lazarus Ebediah Jones, but most folks just call me LEJ. Take a load off stranger, pull a stool up by the fire...will ye have some good Kentucky Whiskey or a mug of ale? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Dave (the ancient mariner) Date: 23 Jan 00 - 12:23 AM Ahh LEJ a mug of your good ale please, How much will a nights food and lodging cost? will these southsea pearls buy a fellah some comfort...Shelling out a handfull of beautifully shaped and coloured pearls onto the table in front of LEJ....The tired and cold sailor looks pleadingly at LEJ...I could do with a rest mate been walking all day and most of last night... been thinking of farming in these parts. or maybe try ranching, anything but go back to sea on them coffin ships I've seen too many deaths at sea... Those poor bloody Irish immigrants most of them never even make it across to America, those that do usually die of disease or overwork and starvation NOT ME MATE i've had it, sod the sea I'll get a job on a riverboat before I'd go back on them Atlantic Packets. Any odd jobs around here, hows the trapping? any money in it? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: catspaw49 Date: 23 Jan 00 - 12:35 AM Well Jumpin' Jesus!!! I ne'er thot Ide find thizzeer place. I dun fergot whut a gud drink wuz. Ya say yua got some reel Kentucky likker? Lemmee have a few sips on thet jug an if ya gotts place fer me ta git sum rest Ide be mitey holdin to ya. I'm Lamphear Pittis from the Ohio country. Came out heer ta do sum trappin an I got me a fine mess of pelts. Lemmee git sum restin in an we can do sum tradin. Nice ta meet ya Lazarus. Cud ya keep an eye on this gittar fer me. I got it back east afor I come out. Some feller name of Martin jist started makin 'em and this one seems ta be a right fine instermint. Thanks. Ima goin ta get some sleep now an we kin talk more later. One more sip on that jug now...AAHHH....Laz, thets mitey fine. Spaw |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: JenEllen Date: 23 Jan 00 - 01:09 AM AAAAHHHH! Lovely place to set a spell. Ellie Oakley at yer service. Been workin over at the J-Lazy-H for a solid month now with no liquor or menfolk worth lookin' at. Barkeep, finger or two of the finer stuff for m'self, and another mug for the sailor. *wink* S'pose I'll be havin' ta check my rifle at the bar...I don't aim to shoots none that aint askin for it, and even if they is, I swear I'll only wing'em. Hey, you on the porch! Mind yer walkin' round that hoss of mine. He ain't but green-broke and about as much fun as a hat full of bees. He takes yer fool head off, it'll be yer own fault. Barkeep, where can a trail weary gal find a hot bubble bath in this here outpost?
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Lonesome EJ Date: 23 Jan 00 - 01:26 AM Let me put that feller's guitar over here behind the bar.He looks a hard case don't he? I heard of a Pittis, or Pettit it may be, that done a killing of a constable back in Ohia and come out here on the lamb. Hope it ain't him... but I reckon it don't really matter if it is. Man's a man in my book until he does me a wrong, and they say the West's for starting anew. Now, Dave, it be 50 cents for a bed and dinner. It's a good un with elk and potatoes and cheese. But if you're short, I can let you have a buffaler blanket in the corner, and a hunk of bread and cheese for a dime. And if ye can play and sing, I'll keep the ale coming. I don't know anything about pearls. My dear Mother had some, but other than those, these are the only ones I've ever seen. They might be something in tradegoods with the Indians- or Mudcat Spiegel might make a fair trade when he returns. I have met a few sailor fellers out here in the Missouri, but most was freshwater seaman off the tradeboats from St Louis.You might make a trapper, but not right around here. This basin's been trapped out for years, tho the Shoshone still take some beaver. You best sign up with a master trapper for shares and keep, and head northwest to the Wind River Country. They'll be many here come spring, and some'll need partners. Hey, Elbert! Play our sailor friend here an Irish song if ye know one, and a lively.
I'll tell my Ma, when I get home |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Dave (the ancient mariner) Date: 23 Jan 00 - 08:00 AM LEJ I can sing but I cannot play anything except a Bosun's Call I'll pipe the side and all hands aloft fer ye mate, but not much call for it around these parts I guess. Thats how I came to be here, someone asked me how and why I smoked such a small pipe, I figured that this was about a far away from the sea as I could get; so I stuck the oar I was carrying as the first marker on a piece of land. One of the locals. Nice guy wearing feathers in his hat said his people owned the place, and traded me 200 acres fer a handfull O' these pearls; said it was a good place to stay. For now LEJ I'll take the bread and cheese and dead animal blanket for a dime; until I can make a bit of cash...luxury compared to what I had aboard me last ship. You're sure this is a buffaler and not Bear? I aint allowed to see bears hurt, something I promised a little lass I know..... Lady that .50 calibre Hawken don't wing anything, it rips an arm or a leg clean off so please don't point it at anything. Sweetheart,you hop into the hot tub and I'll blow all the bubbles ye want in it fer ye...LEJ pass me a straw mate I got a job to do... |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Jeri Date: 23 Jan 00 - 08:45 AM Dave the AM, there's an appropriate song for you at this place. Marching Inland, by Tom Lewis. Anyhow, I'd appreciate a few moments by the fire. Where I come from, it's bitter cold, and I'll have to check all my bits a little later to make sure nothing's been frozen off. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Caitrin Date: 23 Jan 00 - 09:32 AM A stage coach comes rolling up, rocking just a little with the speed. It comes to a bumpy halt right outside the trading post. As it stops, a slim girl with auburn hair jumps off the driver's seat. She comes into the trading post and walks directly to the counter. "Howdy, Laz! I got yer shipment of sugar and flour on the stage. And a couple o' city slickers from Boston that wanted to see the west." She grins, knowing she gave them a little bit rougher of a ride than was necessary. "You got some sasparilla in here?" |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,T in Oklahoma (Okiemockbird) Date: 23 Jan 00 - 09:55 AM Rye whiskey for me. Speaking of which, fiddler, do you know Rye Whiskey ? T. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: MMario Date: 23 Jan 00 - 11:10 AM what appears to be a pile of pelts in the corner stirs, moves and reveals itself to be a large unshaven man of disreputable looks Music? and supplies? I'll jes' mosey on down the bank and check the trotlines fer sum catfish then, and stir up a batch of corn dodgers to go with 'em. I bin stuck in thizzere place since I brought in a bale of marten skins, and LEJ dun tol' me he would only trade fer martins. heck, I got me confused, they done sound the same...
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Peter T. Date: 23 Jan 00 - 11:24 AM Hon, hon, dis look like de place for de man of de mountain, Black Jack Shellac, you bet. Paid off for de furs, tinkin' bout a creole girl down de way, but premierement, Monsieur Jones, Canadian whiskey. Secret to tell, got Northwest Mounties on my trail, so Yankeeland lookin' pretty good dis moment, you bet. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mbo Date: 23 Jan 00 - 11:49 AM The sqeeeeks open, and in walks a short young man with a red moustache and small spectacles. He wears bluejeans that have permanently stained cuffs, a furry coat, and a low crowned Stetson. Howdy folks! The name's Matthew. I hail from Philly like yer good man Spiegel, but I been livin' all over the place back east. You know, I was livin' down in New River Courthouse in Carolin' when one night, when watchin' the starlight fallin' on me, I looked up high, and thought there might just be a better life. Far away from all I'd known--that's where I wanted to go--out on the wild side. So, I left home, and made my way out west. I met a lotta people along the way, and somehow picked up the monniker "M-Bo." I got a guitar, but mostly I do art work (working with the Indians and some settlers)--say Mister LEJ, could ya use a freize on them logs? --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Susan A-R Date: 23 Jan 00 - 11:50 AM A woman with wild, graying hair, a fiddle strapped to her back, and arms corded with muscle rides up on a nasty looking black and white pinto pony. After she has watered the evil-eyed little fellow, she hitches him to the rail and steps lightly in the door. Howdy LEJ. Glad to see the stage is here. I could use a bit of sugar. So what do these layabouts want for food? She says, tying her hair back under a bandana and heading for the big black cookstove. Oh, for you new folks, my name's Susan Bean,and if you bring it in, and it can be cooked, I can cook it. Rummaging in the pie safe, she pulls out beans, salt pork from the crock, and some dried herbs. Soon there is a pot of beans boiling merrily on the cookstove. There. Now, who wanted that fiddle tune? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: katlaughing Date: 23 Jan 00 - 11:59 AM Some beans and hot coffee'd be mightily 'preciated, Miz Bean, if yew don' mind. Have yew been out here long? I hain't seen too many white wimmin, since I took up with the Indians, fact is, I only come in here 'bout once a yar to practise my words and git some supplies. Tell me, have you been back east at all? What's it like there now? Don't git me wrong now, I love my life, but sometimes, there's just this little bit of me, the girl I used to be I guess, who jist wonders what it's like back there, wot I left so many years ago. Doya know the Missouri Waltz? My daddy used ta play for us kids. I got my drum out back in my pack, so maybe later I could drum us up a blanket dance. Oh, wot's that? Oh, the folks I live with call me katdancing, but you kin call me kat. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Susan A-R Date: 23 Jan 00 - 12:10 PM Well Kat, I've been out here for over 30 years, so I can't help ye much, but the folks on the stage might be able to once they get their land legs back. Caitrin gave 'em a bit of a rock on the way in. No, my folks moved out from Vermont the year there was no summer, 1800 and froze to death, remember. We've worked our way west over the past 30 years, and about 5 years ago me and my sweetie Mike moved out to a spot just up the river. I've been busy raisin our kids until just a bit back. Now they've gone and I come in to cook for LEJ when the stage comes through. Gives the easterners some good food, and I get to pick up supplies and any mail if it comes in. My sister did go back east, but she doesn't write much. From what I hear, sounds like the cities are gettin more crowded, the rich folks are puttin on airs like they were from Paris or London or somethin, and anone with any grit is movin out and headin' west. All of this speech is delivered as Sue mixed cornmeal, a bit of buttermilk, some wild onions and fat, and sets a skillet sizzling. Soon there are crisp corn dodgers to go with a good pot of black coffee. Dusting her hands on her apron, Sue reaches for her fiddle and says, And now for that Missouri Waltz. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Peter T. Date: 23 Jan 00 - 12:55 PM Like to hear dat Yankee chanson Shenando, apres de Missouri Waltz, Madame Bean, s'il vous plait, almost good as dat Cadet Rousselle, you bet. Can do? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Caitrin Date: 23 Jan 00 - 01:47 PM Kat, I just came in from the east...bringin' in supplies. It's somethin' else, lemme tell ya. Some buildings as much as seven stories high! Never before seen the like, m'self. People dress up real purdy, too. The women in them fancy dresses, trussed up in them corsets so tight it looks like they cain't breathe, and men wearin' top hats and suchlike. Jest about makes a mountain girl like me sit and stare! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Susan A-R Date: 23 Jan 00 - 02:19 PM Why, I'll put down the fiddle and peel some taters and sing a bit. That Shenando is a pretty one. Maybe Red River Valley too. Then, once I get the onions in here too, and some nice elk, I'll make some biscuts and then dust off the fiddle again with some of the Canadian tunes I learned back in New England,Gaspe reel, yes no? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: JenEllen Date: 23 Jan 00 - 03:00 PM Thanks for the mess of hot water LEJ, and you can take that straw outta that there sailor any time now.. Good scald on the dodgers, Miz Bean. The cook at the J-Lazy-H only serves one way, and that's as black as the pot it was cooked in. You want a little meat, you jus give me a nod, allright darlin? That ol' Hawken might jes be as long as I am tall, but it don't ever miss... Say ladies, whiles the menfolk is back talkin cards and whiskey, lessay we stir up a little on our own?
*Susan wipes her floured hands off on her apron, and cradles her fiddle. katdancing rests a drum against her hip, her bare feet stir up dust on the floor. Ellie starts to sing her favorite song of the trail*
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: katlaughing Date: 23 Jan 00 - 03:55 PM Whoo...eeeeee! Dat's one o'mah very favourites and the tribe I'm with don' wanna sing it, ya know!? Hain't heard itin yars. Oh, my, that do take me back. The fust time I evah heard it was a sweet guy outta Illeenoyse singing, ole Artemis Thieme, it was. Any of you all know him? Ya know last yar afore the season hit, we went over thar to Blue Mountain, west o'here. One o'the prettiest places I ever seen. But I didn't see a horse head anywhere on it; don't know what the singer was thinking about. I'll jist drum real soft liek to that one, ya know, kinda the beat of the old mother's heart. But, ya'll wait, I hain't been to any white man's dances in yars, ya git going and I'll do a double time gitcha going 'no time! I've learned qwite a few of them fancy rithums from the best of the people I live wid, and whew, they can dance! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mikal Date: 23 Jan 00 - 03:58 PM (A slow-footed mule that must have been the offspring of an ass and a Morgan paces it's way up the trail, coming to a halt before the post. A largish man in a black greatcoat slides off the worn saddle and pulls at the blunderbuss that hangs by his side. It is balanced by the drum and tipper that hang from the other shoulder. ) (He pauses in the doorway, smiling at the scene before him. Then he waits until the song ends, and lifts his drum to play;) As I was going over, the far-famed Kerry mountains, I spied Coronel Farrel and his money he was countin' I snatched up me pistols and I rattled me saber sayin' Stand and deliver for I am a bold deceiver! Hus a ring a ma do ama da Whack fol the dady oh Whack fol the dady oh There's whiskey in the jar…. Rum! Trader I say rum for the lads and lasses here! I've thirty two crowns late of His Majesties payroll that slipped into my hand! I've took the kings shilling, then took the paymaster's mule about five days ago. I am sure they will look as best they can for me. (He lays a saber on the table, then pulls both smoothbore horse pistols out and eases down the flints.) If the rum is hot, I'll sit and sing a spell. There's a good lad! Now is there a fair young lass that knows a tune or two here? I've a song inside me that has been straining all the way around the last two passes! Oh some takes delight in the fishin' and the bowlin' And some takes delight in the carriage wheels a rollin' But I takes delight in the juice of the barley! And courtin' pretty ladies in the mornin' bright and early! Mikal |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: katlaughing Date: 23 Jan 00 - 04:33 PM Betcha knowd this one, too, then:
And he did like the ladies, the rise and the fall |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mikal Date: 23 Jan 00 - 04:36 PM (he turns to the Frenchman in the colorful blanket coat.) If thosse boys in red was not lookin' for me, I'll be a dry flat their lookin' for you. The snow is comming down from the high ground though, and if they've not found this place by now, I'm sure they'll be hanging paper for us both come Sunday. I've no rule against drinking with Voyaguers, as long as there's two cups twixt us! Hey, Mudcat! Two more rums hot with a butter in them. I'll sing for the lads so late of the King's guard up North! "Come laddies come, hear the cannons roar Tak' the King's shilling an' we're off tae war "Oh he looked sae prood and sae gallant then Wi' his kilt and sporran an' his musket gun And the ladies kissed them as they marched awa' And they sailed awa' boys They sailed awa', boys, by the Broomielaw "Come laddies come, hear the cannons roar Tak' the King's shilling an' we're off tae war "The pipes they played as they marched along And the men they sang oot a battle song "March on, march on," cried our Captain gay And for King and country For King and country we will fight this day" (Outside the snow begins to fall slow heavy and wet.) Mikal
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,MAG Date: 23 Jan 00 - 05:11 PM The waltz was marvelous, the Gaspe Reel got my feet moving, and I enjoyed playing rhythm on "Blue Mountain." (I've mentioned before that I live at the Northern tip of the Blues.) since I'm trekking in from the West, how about one we've all learned from Art's recording, I once had a home And a place of abode But I I started to travle On the Wilderness Road -- MA |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 23 Jan 00 - 05:26 PM Well, that's some mighty nice food ye got there, Ma'am! I got me fiddle too, bought it from the Sears & Roebuck catalog, I did. Kinder cheap, but it gets the job done. When I was down in Carolin' I met a man who dad came over from Scotland--settled down near Wilmington, down near the Cape Fear, and his here dad wrote him a lullaby when he was just a little 'un. He used to play it on his pipes fer 'em--made it feel like home. Tune's called "Dean Cadalan Samhach" and eeemagine my surprise when I found the same EXACT song over in this big 'ol book called "The Analog Tradition." Fancy that. I'm thinkin' I'm gonna play it right now fers y'all. --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: JenEllen Date: 23 Jan 00 - 05:45 PM Lookee at that snow come down...As long as we got them Sears and Roebuck fiddles out boys, I want to sing one for the ladies to twirl to, lemme slip the dulcimer out of my pack now....
I loved a Spanish lady |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mikal Date: 23 Jan 00 - 06:28 PM Ah, songs to last out th' snows. The high passes are blocked, you know. I've the opinion that the snow will continue into the night. So much for the mounties, eh, Frenchie? Singin' does my heart grand! Pour more rum about! I've a song from my home: Booted and spurred and bridled rode he, A plume in his saddle and a sword at his knee. Back come his saddle, all bloody to see, Back come the steed but never come he. A-ridin' in the Highlands, steep was the way, Ridin' in the Lowlands, hard by the Tay. Out come his mother, with feet all so fair, Out come his sweetheart, a'reivin' of her hair. The meadow's all a'fallin' and the sheep is unshorn, The house is a-leakin' and the baby's unborn, But bonny James Campbell nowhere could be seen, For back come the saddle but never come he. Wait! Did I see a red coat in the snow outside? (He lifts a pistol and the saber, flinging the sheath ito a corner.) Mikal |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Amos Date: 23 Jan 00 - 06:40 PM Nar, 's jes a local sherrif in a lumber shirt -- he's looking for a sailor lad who stole Stormalong's thunder 'bout wanderin' inland until someone asked him what the oar on his shoulder was. (hums under his breath)... Old Stormy he is dead and gone To me way you Stormalong! But now he's dead an' gone to rest, Ay! Ay! ay! Mister Stormalong! Of all ol' skippers he was best, But now he's dead an' gone to rest, He slipped his cable off Cape Horn, Close by the place where he was born. (He lifts the jug and goes back to sleep). Amos |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Caitrin Date: 23 Jan 00 - 07:04 PM Mbo, you been to Carolina? Why, that's where I hail from. Golden Valley, to be exact, out west by Morganton. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Lonesome EJ Date: 23 Jan 00 - 07:09 PM Dinner's ready in 15 miutes for those of ye as paid for food and lodging. The rest of ye help yerselves to some corn dodgers,pemmican and pickled eggs. Mr Mudcat Spiegel will stand the house to a bottomless cup of ale, and a jigger of rum or whiskey a piece. Jen, you'll not make it back down the trail to the ranch this night, so grab a robe and a spot by the fire. If it's too crowded for accomodation, Laughing Cat says 5 or 6 of ye can fit into the tepee. Don't grin...it'll be a sight warmer in there on a pile of hides and blankets, and with 8 or 9 dogs curlin up on yer feet, than it is in here. Mbo...I do have a job for ye. There's an old Shoshone lady in the village 3 miles up the river name of Sacajawea.The very same that led the Survey Expedition of '03 through these mountains. She's not been well, but she's a grand lady and I would surely like her picture done to hang on this wall. I will pay you three pieces of Spanish gold for it. Here's one
I knowed a girl in Old Saint Lou
Sorry, Suzanna, I cannot stay
Do ye not weep, Suzanna |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 23 Jan 00 - 07:14 PM Sho 'nuff Caitrin. New River Courthouse I hear tell is changin' it's name to Jacksonville, after Old Hickory. But before I cam' out here, I was living by the banks of the Tar River, in the county they named by William Pitt. Called the place "Greenville Manor." Sure gotta lot of "green" terbaccy up there...don't know why they call it a manor ayt all... --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: katlaughing Date: 23 Jan 00 - 07:24 PM Thet's right, ladies and gents, that teepee be nice and tight and snug, espesheeallee with all the furry critters curled up and it do look like at least un ate or nyne dawg nite, got the fire stoked good, but I'm only lifting the flap oncet, so when I go, ya better come with me. Oh and I'll warn ye now, up with the sun in my wickeeup, for I've got to greet the day and all, ya know? Wouldn't be right not to. If'n ya'll aren't too rowdy, soused, er passet out b'then, come join me ifn ya want; it's a powerful way to start tha day and ya never know, we could do a little med'cine to ward off them Mounties an all. Wakan Taken is a mighty powerful listener wot led me to the tribe wot saved my life. Oh, and Mizter LeeJ, dearie, like the Virginian said, "Smile when ya call me thet", the name's katdancing, when I'm around ya'll, elsewhar the laugh come after the kat, ya ken? There woz some awwful rif-raff in another time and place wot called me that above and it jist don't set right by me now. Now, hold on, don't be drawing no pistolas or nothing. I knowd ya didn't mean anythin' by it, I'se jist settin the record strate. There nos, how's about another tune, phoaks? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Lonesome EJ Date: 23 Jan 00 - 07:28 PM Alright then Ma'am. Miz Katdancing, that is. Now if ye'd kindly put that pig-sticker back in the scabbard, Ma'am. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Amos Date: 23 Jan 00 - 07:32 PM I don' wan' yore greenback dollar! I don' wan yore fancy clothes But if you'll tell me that you love me! I will let you lead me 'round, by my nose. (goes back to sleep with his jug) |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mrs. Eye D. Clair Date: 23 Jan 00 - 07:58 PM There's a timid, but persistent know on the door. finally it penetrates the sound of all the music and goings-ons. Mr. Lazarus Jones strides over and regretting the chane of letting the blizzard in, he carefully cracks the door open. staring back at him, beneath of hood of fur, is the face of an angel. A mature woman, with golden eyes and auburn hair, pushes past him, declaring as she does, "Well, kind sir, don't keep me waiting out there in that dreadful storm! Do you have acommodations for me and my entourage for the night? They are in the barn at the moment tending to our stock." Mister Jones' mouth quickly shuts as he his heart does a double triphammer. for a minute there, as he gazed into her eyes, he was reminded of his sweetheart from long, long ago, the dear sweet Anna of his heart, who he'd had to leave behind. "Well, now, ma'am, I'm not sure wot ya mean by accomodashuns, as we've a full house on account of the storm and all, and well, shore, we can find somewhere to make you comfortable. Now, I'm thinking to myself, you look liek a lady who might have a book or two with her. If'n you do, a bed out back wiht a couple of buffalo robes won't cost you as much if you'll read a bit afore we wind this party down. By the way, what did ya say your name was, ma'am?" "Mrs. Clair, Mrs. Eye D. Clair, late of St. Louis, on my way to my poor departed husband's ranch, God rest his soul. He was a remittance man from England. Perhaps you knew of him?", she smiled at Jones.
(just so nobody get's worried, this is really katlaughing having a little fun) |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 23 Jan 00 - 08:11 PM Well, there sure are a lot us here with auburn hair, now ain't there. My passport used to say "Hair color: red" but I done made 'em change it to "auburn." I ain't got no red hair. Now is innyone up fer "Fire On The Mountain"? (the Marshall Tucker Band song, not the fiddle tune--I ain't that guid!) --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mikal Date: 23 Jan 00 - 08:26 PM A rancher and remmitance man? Surely and sorely do I recall: "When the half-baked remittance man comes to the West Arrayed in short pants, which he thinks suits him best, He parades around town, while he takes a short rest Ere assuming the role of a rancher." But no hard feelings, Madam. I may have news of him, if he was the one that was too slow to climb the tree ahead of the bull... Surely there is a brandy about for the "Widow" Clair. Come sit by me dear lady. I have a space that is warm and a face that is honest. Oh, I forget my manners! Michael McLeod at your service, dear lady. Late of His Majesties service. I have "retired" with quite a bit of specie, I might say. Brandy! Bring the dear lady brandy! Is that bit of jewelry at your neck what I think it is my dear? Mikal |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mrs. Eye D. Clair Date: 23 Jan 00 - 09:21 PM "Why, I do declare, there is after all a gentleman about these parts? Mr. McLeod, thank you for the brandy. Now, now, not so close, kind sir, as I am feeling the need for a little air. His Majesties service you say? Well perhaps you have heard of my poor Reginald, may he rest in peace. Yes, I do believe it was a nasty bovine which attacked him. I, of course, having been raised on the estate of my father, the late Sir Archibald Mckneeson-Pitterman, know the ways of the livestock. I begged daddy to let me come out with Reggie when he first settled!", she said with great heaving sobs threatening to overwhelm her. "If I'd been there, my poor Reggie would still be alive and, well, a woman of my age, well, I, um, can get so lonely sometimes. The jewel? Oh, it's just a little family piece daddy gave me before he died. It belonged to my great grandmother, Flora Estella Darling. I never take it off; it is my prized possession. Kindly take your eyes off of it, sir, if you do consider yourself a gentleman?" |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: JenEllen Date: 23 Jan 00 - 09:22 PM Hot Damn! A place by the fire! There ain't no way in heaven or hell I'm getting back to the ranch tonight. The stock is bedded down for the night, and Miz Suzie Bean...I threw down for your Pinto as well, How'd you get to finding such a mean looking critter with such a sweet heart? Mikal, sit tight darlin'..that sherrif won't cause you no trouble. He gives your sweet voice any trouble, he'll have my Hawken to tell him otherwise. Same goes if he's after my bubble blowing sailor. katdancing, I might jus have to take you up on the teepee for the lodging. You don't by chance have an old black dog you'll lend a gal for the night? I'm jus gonna pull this here blanket up 'round my ears (tuck the auburn hair up under m'hat..this is too weird) and give y'all another song that the moon adores but always makes me cry...any of yous so much as looks at me sideways, it'll be the last thing you ever do.
There's a coyote howling somewheres |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Dave (the ancient mariner) Date: 23 Jan 00 - 09:22 PM Slinging his Baker rifle over his shoulder, the ancient mariner bids adieu to "All Hands" I'll be back later when I've built myself a soddie to live in and have something to trade. (get a better deal fer me pearls with the Indians than in here mates)Meebo thats indian fer he who blows into a bag of flutes and howls at the moon. I'm learning the lingo slowly. Jumps up on his huge Shire horse "Bosun" and rides off to the west singing an old marching song from his younger days......
Here's forty shillings on the drum
Though I may wander far from Spain
O'er the hills and O'er the main
So come on lads behind the drum
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Caitrin Date: 23 Jan 00 - 09:31 PM Mbo, I'd be most pleased if you'd do "Fire on the Mountain"...one of my personal favorites. Miz Katdancin', I think I'll take you up on that offer of lodging, too. I ain't never stayed in a teepee before, and ol' Leej done let out all the rooms upstairs. Miz Susan, do you reckon you could make some biscuits? I don't think I've had a good biscuit since I left Carolina. *sigh* |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: katlaughing Date: 23 Jan 00 - 09:33 PM Hey theyah, old Ranch Gyrl, i's got any colah of dawg you could want; yellah, brown, black, a nice shaggy black, reeeel warm, red dawgs, almost match yer hair. Ya'll come out ta the teepee, but do't be thinking yer gonna see any o'that moon tonite! Now, ain't that seafarin' guy jist the caziest? Takin' off in a storm lyke this? Wots got inta the feller?I'll tell ya wot, the Indians talk about it, it's a crazy spirit wot comes on the winter wind, howlin' down the valley, in around the corners of the tavern and through any crack it kin find. They says it's the spirits of all them wots died and didn't git sung on into the happy huntin' grounds; they's lookin fer someone to blame and I reckon they musta put the crazy notion in thet sailor fellah, him leavin like thet. Sure hope he's got a good med'cine bag wiht him, sose they leave 'im alone. Muttering to herself, she starts digging in a pack for some sweetgrass & sage bundle. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: katlaughing Date: 23 Jan 00 - 09:40 PM Wot's that, Caits, oh sure, darlin girl, ya'll kin join us; like I said it's tight and warm, why hell! We's could haf ourse'ves a hen party! Say, I haven't had a chance ta hee-haw with a bunch of white wimmin in a long, long time. I love my people, but ya know the whitehide I was still gets lonesome. Now, wot colah o'dawg are yew wantin', dearie? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Caitrin Date: 23 Jan 00 - 09:49 PM Thanks a bundle, Miz Katdancin'. I'm not real particklar about color, so long as it's warm. A girl party sounds awful nice...there ain't many women to chat with hereabouts, ya know. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Lonesome EJ Date: 23 Jan 00 - 09:56 PM Did ye get a good look at that sailor-feller's face? He was quite ruddy with the ale, but I jedge the next time ye see him he'll be fetched up in a snowdrift with a face as white as the full moon. I hear'd of sailors what go aloft with their clothes encased in ice, and the icycles a-hanging from their hair, so I know they are a hardy breed. But that feller ain't never seen a hard Northern Blizzard in these parts. Somebody ought to go after the poor jake with a rope and haul him back before he gets lost. I have heard the damned Irish are Hard-headed... heard it from my old Grampa, who should have known, being a Scotch Irishman hisself. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 23 Jan 00 - 10:01 PM Now I'm gonna play ye one o' my favorite songs o' all time--in fact, it's why I left home and am here wi' you grand folks....but boy howdy what I'd do fer a honky-tonk pianer right now... I'd ride the desert sands And through the prairie lands Trying to do what's right The folks would come to me They'd say "We need you here" I'd stay for the night Oh, I wish I was (oh, oh, oh, oh) A wild west hero. Ride the range all the day Till the first fading light Be with my western girl Round the fire, oh so bright I'd be the Indians' friend Let them live to be free Riding in to the I wish I could be. --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,_gargoyle Date: 23 Jan 00 - 10:02 PM In Max's cathedral....high on the steeple I sit in the rafters ....and lugg on "non-people"
Hand me a chaw.....I'll chew it up spitty... |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,_gargoyle Date: 23 Jan 00 - 10:04 PM Oh....damn....it is past...the opportunity's gone... I'll just sit in the rafters,,,,,she'll be back er' long. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 23 Jan 00 - 10:06 PM Now where's Little Shureshot Ellie Oakley when ye need 'er? --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Jeri Date: 23 Jan 00 - 10:23 PM And high on the building alone in his lair Sat the gargoyle with pigeon shit caked in his hair A feather got lodged up his nose and he sneezed And he showered tobacco juice over his knees One day he'll learn the motto that's given That the messes you make in this life, you must live in. Mbo, too easy a shot for Ellie, he just sits up there and don't never move. Flaps his gums a lot, but that just sorta makes a nice breeze... |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Amos Date: 23 Jan 00 - 10:25 PM (Wakes up and sings slightly off key and totally a capella) They burieed hom out on the praiiiirieeee The sods they fell down on his face And now where two hairs greww beforee themmmm Too cactiii have greown into place. Oh! He was only a LAVender cowboyyy..... (Falls back asleep after another nip on his jug and winking at the shapely Caitrin) |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,_gargoyle Date: 23 Jan 00 - 10:36 PM Touchee''''
You got me real good, you got me real quick... I'm out of here fast, for I am sick!!!! NEVER!!!!swallow yer tobaccy juice!
Well done...THANX...hausta la pasta
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mikal Date: 23 Jan 00 - 10:38 PM (He then raises his tankard of rum, as if to toast some rare thing.) "The King has his wine, while his guardsmen drink ale, An' he has a pillow t' comfort his tail. While we sit in the mud and drink muck for our tea! God Bless us, fer Crown and for Country! "Well he's no king a' mine, But they still took me in. Now I'm Marchin' and prayin' and hopin' like sin, That the Good Lord will hide me when death comes my way! God Bless me, fer Crown and for Country!" Excuse me dear lady, but the drink has taken my tongue and made a rascal of me. I would not subject a lady to such heathen musings. This place is wild enough, I am sure. By the stars! What is that ragged thing in the rafters? I would load the 'buss and try to take it down, but I would be sure to blow a hole in the roof trying. And I fear it too thin for keeping and too harmless for sport! Rum again, good man, and brandy for the lady! (Aside) Do you think that bauble of hers would fetch a few coins? 'Tis a hard large land here, and I would fain have a few hard coin to add to my small pile… Mikal |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Susan A-R Date: 23 Jan 00 - 10:39 PM Caitrin, there's biscuits a plenty, just under the stove there in the basket, and butter and honey to go with 'em, unless you want 'em with the elk stew. It's mighty lovely now, been simmering for hours. I'll be right back. She grabs a buffalo skin, covers her head and slips out to the stable where she finds Bosun with his head in a manger and the sailor fellow asleep on the stable floor. Nudging him gently with her boot, to no avail, she reaches down and gives his shoulder a mighty shake. Sailor boy, you can't sleep out here, lessen you don't want to wake up. Even with a barn full of horses, you'll be a block of ice by morning.
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mikal Date: 23 Jan 00 - 11:35 PM All right, all right, I'll haul the poor man in. He's less than my weight by I stone, I'd wager. Huff! But a tidy bit heavy all the same and ...Wheeeeew! Breath that would shame a privy! I'll put him down close to the fire, good keeper, if you please. A skin full of that will make him most like to freeze. "Oh, what shal we do with a drunken sailor, what shall we do with a drunken sailor, what shall we do with a drunken sailor early in the mornin'? Put him in the head and watch him bobble, put him in the head and watch him bobble, put him in the head and watch him bobble early in the mornin'!" Oh, beggin' your pardon ladies...I was just singing a tune he would have enjoyed... (He walks back to his rum, sliding a hand into his own coat-pocket. There is a sad smile on his face.) Ah, perhaps I too should be finding rest for the night. "The food is good, the rum is fine, and now a fire to ease my mind. What more in Heaven? What more in Hell? It tempts a man his soul to sell. And if the Lord should tarry, it's cause for making merry! And the musket-boys, they think it all so well!" One more rum, good man. I'll sleep in the corner ther, so not to disturb should I leave early tomorrow... Mikal |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Lonesome EJ Date: 23 Jan 00 - 11:53 PM A word with ye Mikal... I heard ye say ye might be fugitive from the British Army? The "why" being none of my business, I'll give ye a word of alert. Two Crow hunters, coming down from the Powder River Country northeast of this place, came across a party of British Dragoons camped in a meadow a half day's ride from here. Though this be territory of the United States, we have seen redcoats fairly often in this country. "Protecting the lives and rights of British trappers and traders," they sez. So this may be nothing to you, except to be forewarned and forearmed as they say.About a dozen of em, said the Crow lads. Now, some of us here have had our run-ins with the redcoats, been robbed of our pelts. And my own Uncle Gervis was killed in the Independence War, so we're inclined to stand by ye. Even more so, if we know the reason for yer ... shall I say yer desertion? And that beast lurking in the rafters? Don't let him spook ye. He's only an old Magpie that Broken Spoke Wheeler taught to talk. Wheeler never was right in the head, ye know. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mikal Date: 24 Jan 00 - 12:19 AM (He sides up to Lazarus, fixing him with his eye, and then he begins to speak, quietly and quickly, as if the word are a stream he cannot control, nor would he dare to.) The Clan MacLeod lives on the isle of Lewis. Though there were plenty of them there in Skye when Charlie tried to raise the Clans. We were painted with that brush right then, and the color will not was away, not even with our blood it seems. A justice in Edinburgh found little humor in my stopping the coaches to chat up the King's good citizens. True, I kept a bit of coin I took, but hardly enough to mater. Still, he hung paper on me. There was little to be done then. Three years I went to ground. No one cared then, I was told. So I takes the chance and goes to the town to do a bit of business. It's not three months past that, I was pulled before a magistrate given sentence. Take the King's shilling and sail to Canada, or cool my heels in some rotting hulk off the coast, with a hundred or so pirates and thieves. So, I came here with a musket and a fine red coat. Then they tell us to "pacify" the French in the Province. I will not tell you what that meant! So I found a Frenchie who would give me a coat and a good set of pistols, I set upon the pay-sergeant on the road not far from Quebec, and now I am here. "There's brandy in Quebec at ten cents a quart, boys, The ale in New Brunswick's a penny a glass, There's rum in that sweet town they call Montreal, boys, At inn after inn we will drink as we pass, We'll call for a bumper of ale, wine and brandy, And we'll drink to the health of those far away; Our hearts will all warm at the thought of old Ireland While we're in the green fields of Americay." So I am wanted. Me or the Frenchie there. If it's me they come for, I'll not bring trouble on you. I'll beg your leave to run out that hatch you have behind the tub…Yes, I know a bolt hole when I see one. A man would be a fool not to have one out here in this savage land. I'll duck out there and see if I can still take a few more free breaths. "Now when Donohue made his escape, to the bush he went straight way. The squatters they were all afraid to travel by night and by day And every day in the newspapers, they brought out something new, Concerning that bold bushranger they called Jack Donohue." I'll trouble you for a rum, and a fill of my pipe if you've tobacco left… Mikal |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: katlaughing Date: 24 Jan 00 - 12:22 AM Katdancing comes in through the door, stomping the snow from her winter mocs, followed by what looks like a very wild and large cat, tawny, eyes gleaming, reflecting the firelight, mouth big enough to go around a man's arm, open with 3 inch incisors showing behind a tongue which seems to savour the scent of a meal, tail lashing back and slamming shut the door. "Now,now, don' be raising yer sites on m'girl! This here's my lucky charm, found her when she was real little, The People tell me she's my ticket into the happy huntin' grounds. Down, darlin', they don' mean us no harm. Now, any of yew know what this sorry pelt is from? I forgot m'lion de la montagne was outside m'teepee, thought she was off huntin'. Well, she was....sorta. Looks like she got some kind of rodent, yech! If it don look like anything any of yew know or want, I'll jist throw it out back on the dung heap. There now, you ladies done dancin' and ready to join the critters, yes, Lucky gets to sleep in there, too, she helps ta keep them dawgs in line. Ya'll let me know when yer ready. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Lin in Kansas Date: 24 Jan 00 - 03:54 AM (There's a timid knock on the door, which no one hears, what with all the music and merrymaking. Slowly the latch lifts and a woman slides in, eyes downcast. Her high button shoes are caked with snow. She wears gray knitted gloves and a worn and faded calico dress. Her cloak was once expensive scarlet velvet, but has seen so many years of use that the nap has worn off in places. The lines in her face speak silently of hard times and hard places, but strength shows through too. She pushes her graying hair back under the bonnet and makes her way quietly toward the fire, thinking of the letter she carries in her reticule.) --lin |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Dave (the ancient mariner) Date: 24 Jan 00 - 10:43 AM Although gratefull for another warm night in the arms of morphious, (at no charge I hope) and I hope it was morphious's arms that were around me, or a pretty girls..The sailor cannot freeze, he simply has far too much alcohol in his blood and no brain cells to kill.. A noise outside the Trading Post, A tall muscular half Frenchman half Algonquin warrior enters. Spying the sailor he speaks in heavily accented English; that betrays the fact he learned English in Lancashire. Hey you lazy Dave you, get up and get moving; I've cut sign that Lady Emma is chasing after Bears just west of here, lets go mon ami. Looking at JL he say's ah you must be the lady that they call "She Who Throws Curved Sticks and Calls them Back by Singing" you are famous around here. Mikal, in a few hours retired veterans of Waterloo Sgt. Patrick Harper and two ex riflemen late of his Majesty King Georges 95th rifles, will come by. You will recognised them Patrick carries a seven barreled Volley Gun, made by Henry Nock of London, and they still wear their faded green uniform jackets; obliged if you would tell them we've gone looking for Lady Emma and to come double time. You may travel with them and no Redcoat will trouble you, what you did for my friend we will pay you back many times, when next we meet. Leaving a golden sovereign on the counter for "All Hands" Dave and Guy head west, two very close friends, brothers in search of the Lady Emma and her bears singing a marching song...... CONGLETON BEAR (John Tams) The Wakes coming on and the bear he took ill We tried him with potion, with brandy and pill He died in his sleep at the eve of the Wakes The cause, it was said, was strong ale and sweet cakes The cheeses of Cheshire are famed, but beware Of stories they tell of the Congleton Bear Congleton Bear, Congleton Bear They sold the Church Bible to buy a new bear He'd served the town well and he's served town true To lie him in state was the least they could do The old bear was dead, a successor they'd need A new bear was wanted, and that at great speed Now a parson is useful in times of great need And imbibed with strong porter he quickly agreed The parson, his Bible he gave then and there We sold it in Nantwich to buy a new bear. The new bear, a she-bear, was toast of the town To music and laughter she danced up and down So loudly the cheering would waken the dead It caused the old bear for to rise from his bed Pills, potion and brandy induced a deep trance And refreshed by the music he began for to dance He danced down the road causing many a gaze Word quickly spread that the old bear was raised He rolled his dark eye as he spied the she-bear And with an embrace they danced jigs pair-and-pair The cheeses of Cheshire are famed but beware Of stories they tell of the Congleton Bear. @animal filename[ CONGBEAR Tune file : LILIBURL |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Peter T. Date: 24 Jan 00 - 11:13 AM Mikal, you me got da same dam problem, but I tell you wat, you one damm fine man, I tell you wat. And I also tell you wat, you head out, and I take them on: time for a good fight, yes, by gar. Wat dey do to me, eh? Dieu!! Already taken de whole damm Canada, goddam 'udson's Bay, cochon shopkeepers. Den we meet and we curse de maudit British, and de goddammed Yankee wrecking de most beautiful land dis side de Gaspe. De question I got for you, Mikal, avant de disparaitre, is dis: where de 'ell we all going to go when de last of de beaver go, and de last damm tribe of damm indians is over de maudit Canadian border? Where de 'ell we going to go? -- we goin' to 'ell, dat one damm ting for sure. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Amos Date: 24 Jan 00 - 11:20 AM Aroint, cher voyageur -- get thee off to the Bay, there to sell Levi's and pickaxes to dirty Yankee diggers! Plus ca change, plus ca change, non? Chacun a son mauvais gout! A |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Peter T. Date: 24 Jan 00 - 11:39 AM Bin tinking more, Mikal, bin tinking, tink dis: you me got de connection trew dat Marie, Queen of Scots, no? Ain't de French and de Scots always got de same esprit? Whair de 'ell your Charlie goin' eh, when de 'ole thing die? La France. But it all bitched some'ow: like we was cookin' a porridge omelette, I 'tink. "Hon, hon, hoiho vraiment, Cadet Rouselle a seize enfants!!" Bring on de British!!! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: catspaw49 Date: 24 Jan 00 - 03:22 PM Lamphear Pittis awakens after a two-day sleep.
LP: "Damned if that wasn't a fine sleep......Whutz all this stuff piled up here on toppa me?.......Thizzeer place shur fills up doanit? Now then, I cud uze summa then vittles and another pull on thet jug.........howabout summa then there ...say what?" LEJ: "I said, how about seein' some barter up here first Pittis."
LEJ stares in amazement at the small, coarse haired, and scraggly "pelt" completely mystified.
LEJ: "What in the name of Old Hickory's asshole IS THAT?"
LEJ examines the small, pinkish-brown objects.
LEJ: "So what's these things?"
LEJ slings the "whistles" across the room.
LEJ: "Now lookit here you dumb Buckeye...Go out and do something that's worth a damn so you got some barter!!! Possum pelts and assholes fer chrissakes.......An don't come back til you can pay up for what you owe! I'll keep this gittar til you do. NOW GIT OUT!!!" LEJ watches him go and looks at the guitar behind the bar. LEJ: "I hope ta hell he does come back. What am I gonna do with this gittar. He said it was one of the first ones the guy made, how much could that be worth? Besides, anybody that knows THAT guy couldn't be too far from a fool themselves! C.F. Martin,huh? Probably a bigger idiot than that Pittis feller.........Keericed, possum pelts and assholes........Do y'all BELIEVE that guy??? What a shitkicker." |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Caitrin Date: 24 Jan 00 - 03:56 PM *runs to the biscuit basket, grabs a few more than her fair share and slathers one with butter. As she takes a bite, her eyes close and a soft sigh of contentment escapes.* Miz Susan, that tastes just like my Granny MacCurrie's used to! I could almost believe I was in Dixie again! If you can make cornbread that good, I don't think I'm ever gonna leave this here place! Dave, did you just say somethin' about a Sgt. Harper? Didn't he march with Sharpe's Rifles? My daddy told me 'bout Harper and SHarpe, and how that was the best rifle company ever ta march the Peninsula. Faster 'n three rounds a minute, he said. Miz Katdancin', I reckon that's the ugliest pelt I've ever seen. It ain't goin' in the teepee,is it? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 24 Jan 00 - 04:10 PM Wee-eel! You folks think you tasted sum'in--wait'll you try my Great Grandma Vincenza's cookie rolls--brought it all the way over from Italy to Philly, she did! Now who wants to help me? I gonna need some raisins, chocolate, apple butter, and walnuts--that's fer the fillin'--and the usual baking guids fer the crust. O man, I'm tellin' ye, this is one of this world's greatest treasures--and'll keep over a year to boot. Jest stick it in yer icehouse. Now I need a reely big pot...innyone wanny help me out here? --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: MMario Date: 24 Jan 00 - 04:19 PM theres bunches of raisens over whur that Lamphear Pittis fellur was sleepen. And I got sum apple butter out on the flatboat; how much you gonna need? 'N I gotta sack of black walnuts 'roundbout somewhere, but they gonna need some crackin' and pickin' forya ken use'm.... |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Bert Date: 24 Jan 00 - 04:22 PM A great creaking and groaning is heard, and a dirty tattered, heavily laden, ox cart comes to a stop outside. A tall lanky man walks in the door wearing a leather apron blackened with burn marks. He carries no guns but has a four pound hammer in a frog attached to his belt. Bertram Black's me name - Smiffy - lookin' fer a place to set up me fire. 'Ow did I git 'ere? I'll tell yer 'ow I gawt 'ere. I worz wiv Packenam's crahd dahn in Noo Orleens I worz. Chief armorah they called me, huh! sum bloody armorah! I'm a bleedin' blacksmiff. But they couldn't find a propar armorah so they went and cornscipted me, the barstuds. Wull I showed 'em orl right, while they wuz runnin' froo the bloody swomps wiv their bloody tails between their bloody legs. I jest loaded me gear in the wagon drove orf, di'n I. No wun ever missed me. So's I says to meself, "Bertrum me ol' mate, you doan wanna be 'angin' 'rahnd 'ere when eever side gits back from their little scrap" and I took aht west. Gort away clean as a bloody whistle. Bin doin' a bi' ov smiffin 'ere an' there ter earn a bob or two, but ahm lookin' fer a place to set up, permanent like. So if there's a spare 'arf acre rahnd 'ere I'll set up me fire. I'm a bit ov a smiff, an' a bit ov a weelrite, an' a bit ov a farriyar, but I ain't no bloody tinker so doan go bringin' me yer bloody pots an' pans ter mend. Nah, 'ah's abaht a mug of that pigs ear wiv a drorp ov that whisky innit, worm it up a bit like. Gor, that' more likit, warms the cockles ov yer bloody arse that duz. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 24 Jan 00 - 04:35 PM Bertram--you reckon you could forge me up sum new geetar strings? And maybee sum tin foil--I'm gonna need it reel soon... --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Bert Date: 24 Jan 00 - 04:54 PM Nah, that's a good un, Maffew me ol' china. Yers, lemme fink abaht it. Nah I've gort sum spring steel, aht back in me wagon there. If I woz tuh drill a few smaller 'oles in me drawin' plate, I fink I might be able ter git yer wire fin enuf, might take free or four goes. Then we could scrahnge sum silver orf ov one ov them minuhs wot just walked in, an draw that aht ever finer. 'course yud 'av ter wind that be 'and though. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,You wouldn't believe it if you knew! Date: 24 Jan 00 - 05:57 PM The door creaks, then opens with a bang as the wind slams hard into the crowded room. A silhouette appears, wrapped in black lace and feathers, and upon entering is revealed to be a... lady, in red satin, black lace, and diamond-and-jet earrings. "Dah-lings, I'm soooo glad to have made it alive! Isn't it just awful out there???" As the stunned silence grows, she shakes some snow off her platinum curls, and bats her long, thick eyelashes. "Well, isn't there a gentleman here to take my wraps??? I'm Lola L'Amour and I'm so hungry and cold. I'm sure one of you fine men would like to see to my needs!" |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 24 Jan 00 - 06:10 PM Wee-eel, Ma'am, if'n ye got a hankerin' for sum Italian pastry, I got a fine ol' egzample o' it comin' richt up! And if it's warmin' up that ye want, I'll play ye a song called "Fire On High." Warm ye up REEL fast! --Mbo |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Peter T. Date: 24 Jan 00 - 06:21 PM "But soft what light through yonder window breaks, as the Bard said, in one of his riper moments! Allow me, sweet lady, to unburden you of your paraphenalia." This persiflage derived from another figure the wind pushed in, wrapped in a somewhat tattered cloak, and carrying a carpet bag emblazoned with heraldic insignia. "Perhaps you know of me?" (Lola did not). "Perhaps on the wall of your local hall of exposition, and I do not refer of course to the post office. I refer to the THEATRE!!!!" (Low bow, flourish, red face)" "Name? Cassius de Mornay, enchanter of the crowned heads of Europe, the Sultan of Oman, and the erstwhile Sultan of Brunei, who once opined that my Coriolanus put him in fear of his own kingdom!!!!" (Opens carpet bag, revealing collection of battered books, a wooden sword, a somewhat woebegone skull, and a cocked hat with bent feather)."Might I have the honour of the company of one of the sweet ladies, goodnight sweet ladies, present, for a brief libation. Let me not drink of the wine when tis red, whiskey, s'il vous plait, Innkeeper!!!" (Approaches innocent looking chair, pauses briefly, looks in all directions for female company, sits in the style of Henry IV Part I ruing the impossibility of setting out for the Holy Land). |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mbo Date: 24 Jan 00 - 06:30 PM Wu-aal, anuther actor, eigh? I did a bit o' actin' myself...my Hamlet was deemed at least better than Mr. Kenny Branagh, but I was hailed as an excellent Prospero. I also did a stint as Stephano...."Turn me not round, my stomach is not constant!" But I kin see from yer look you've been 'round mor'n I have. Say mister, have ye ever been to Trebizonia? --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Amos Date: 24 Jan 00 - 06:44 PM (Wakes in corner, raises head from half-empty jug and stares about blearily) Gorrr! Hit's gettin' thick in here! Not so deep as a well, nor so wide as a church door, but sure as hell is enough, 't will serve! (Sighs and reclines with jug to lips, gazing blankly at the ceiling and humming) From his home in the north Came the Young Voyageur With his birchbark canoe all laden with fur! Cold is the air. He does not care. For there's joi! in the heart of the young voyageur! (Sleeps). |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Lonesome EJ Date: 24 Jan 00 - 06:52 PM Well, I'll be a... CASSIUS DeMORNAY! The real and actual article. Ladies and gentleman, we are indeed honored to be in the presence of a true light of the modern theatre! Sir, no more'n 1 1/2 years ago back in Baltimore Maryland I had the pleasure of seeing ye as the hunch-backed King hisself.How do ye find yerself in this remote corner of the wilderness? And would ye deign to do us a soliloquy, maybe Macbeth or the Melancholy Dane? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: JenEllen Date: 24 Jan 00 - 07:12 PM Miz katdancin'..I'm fraid I'm gonna have to set by this here fire and have a few more of them biscuits...but I'll keep a short rope on that purty red dawg for ye, he looks like a warm'un. And I'll share my stash of clover honey with anys that wants some. Mbo darlin', I had the gun at the ready..but grampy allus told me it's a waste of a good bullet to shoot somethin' that's already dead.... Thank the sun we got that sailor fella thawed out, but now he's off chasin bears? Lawd a mercy...caint trust the menfolk the sense they was born with. I should have at least offer to go along, but with this snow...they'll be lucky to find the barn.. I knew a feller oncet that played a possum arsehole...they knows how to hold a gal, but they sure kisses funny... Smithy, got a job fer ya if'n your up to it. That big red horse in the barn is due for a trim and shoe. It pays real well, but I'd be hopin you already told yer family that you love them...*wild laughter and a swirl of buckskin fringe as she draws on the jug* Now, with all these fine actor types from the city, I'd be thinkin that a gal could get hersailf quite a show...hows about a lil' of that Shakey-spear feller? Lawd a might missy, all them feathers you look just like a turkey in the brush. Hopes yer playins a little more sensible than the dress *wink* Dazzle me darlin'!! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mikal Date: 24 Jan 00 - 07:52 PM (Michael MacLeod rouses himself from the sleep that had taken him. The words of the actor had stirred some deep memory behind his eyes…) Shakespeare? There is a few god men in among the straw fellows of Britain, at least. I recall the words: "Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow creep on in their petty pace, And all our yesterdays have lighted fools their way to dusty death. Out! Out brief candle! Life is but a walking shadow. A poor player who struts and frets his hour upon the stage, and then is heard no more. Tis a tale told by an idiot! Full of sound and fury, signifying nothing." I saw it played in Skye, before the fire took the old play-house. They'll never do the Scot's Play again, I'll warrant! "The ale's a penny a pot, boys The ale's a penny a pot! If you've only got a penny, then beer is all you've got! We've no more good potatoes, there isn't any beef, Welcome to the army lads, we'll got no relief!" Frenchie, I'll not leave a man to fight alone. If they come for us, either of us, We'll both use the bolt-hole and set them up by the river. My sainted father would often sing of the battles he had seen. I've a mind if I have to die, I could do so in worse company! Lazarus! I have a catch-bag on my saddle that holds a few bottles of port. I've a mind to pour it all now and devil take the snow! Mikal
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mbo Date: 24 Jan 00 - 08:14 PM Ahh...the nicht grows intristin'! Do ye think it's high time I played "The Digger's Song"? Is a jolly 'un I wrote, all about pannin' fer gold (oops, that doesn't happen for another 9 years!) Say...whuts with Miz L'Amour? I sense miching mallecho! Don't worry, my bonne homme, I'm a supported o' yer great country. Heard tell of an insurreection back oh, eight years ago. Buncha college boys built themselves a barricade in the Rue de la Chanveriere. All got killed they said....poor fellas.... --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Dave (the ancient mariner) Date: 24 Jan 00 - 09:18 PM God bless all hear, a loud Irish voice calls out from the open door of the trading post. Sargent Harper and the chosen men enter. The great volley gun is slung over his massive shoulder like a toy. Only Harper is strong enough to stand the recoil of such a weapon. We are looking for Dave (the ancient mariner) and a Lady Emma; has anyone news? ......Caitrin you are right we were with Sharpe. And dont worry about that sailor and his friend, Guy can track an ant over rocks, and shoot it at two hundred yards. Dave isnt so bad either we taught him how to shoot; and he shoots four rounds a minute. Mean as a bear with a cutlass too. By the way which way did he go? west ye say, well lads drink up and off we go by the time we catch up he'll be trying to convince lady Emma to let those bears go.....I'll bet you a shilling she wont though, and he always takes them to her wildlife park. Off we go looks like the weather is changing for the better. Mikal me boy dont worry about the Redcoats their bloody lost as usual and trying to find their way back to Canada we'll help them laddie and we never saw you at all get my drift, God Bless Ireland what a crew.... |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mikal Date: 24 Jan 00 - 09:48 PM A pleasure to meet you Sargent. I've Port here and a reason to pour it now. Come, let the snow melt off your boots and lift a glass! "Wish I could find me brother, the one that's with the army. I don't know where he's stationed, be it Cork or in Killarney. But together we'd go roamin' and lift a pretty penny, And I'm sure he'd treat me better than my darlin' sportin' Jenny!" More cups, Lazarus. We've a noble company to pour for! And I've twenty bottles to lose this night! Mikal |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Lonesome EJ Date: 24 Jan 00 - 10:21 PM Right ye are, more cups all around. I'll ask ye one favor: Though I know ye all be peaceable and kindly sorts, a surfeit of drink will sometime make Devils of Angels as my Old Ma would say, and so would I ask that ye lean yer firearms just here behind the bar. That keeps holes out of my roof and out of my clientele too. Smithy, I've a propositon for ye. If ye can make a metal-head hatchet like this'un ye see before ye, I could buy many such from ye for trade among the Indian. And I have, in a dry crate, the old Franklin stove from out this very trading post. That be 350 pounds of scrap iron, enough to make near fifteen hundred such hatchets. Are ye game to try? I can also use such truck as hoes, adzes, shovels and saw blades. And can ye repair the action of a rifle? ACHHH...I had best to shovel this snow back from the door, for now it piles up quick. If ye've snow shoes in yer saddle packs ye'd best fetch em, and see to yer animals. Ye might make a lean-to from the rope and canvas on yonder high shelf. Then return ye for the wine and cheer, quite settled in yer minds. Where'd that vendor of possum arses get to? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mbo Date: 24 Jan 00 - 10:27 PM Well, Great-Grandma Vincenza's fillin' is done simmerin'--time to roll out the dough--and smooooth the fillin' on it. Mmm mmm mmm...makin' my mouth water jest thinkin' on it! --Mbo |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Caitrin Date: 24 Jan 00 - 10:30 PM Mr. de Mornay, if you're doin' Shakespeare, I'd be most obliged if ya'd do that bit about St. Crispin's Day from Henry V. I always liked that one...a bit of excitement, ya know. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Peter T. Date: 25 Jan 00 - 10:24 AM "It is an orotund pleasure to meet so many for whom the Bard is not merely a name to conjure with, but a living presence upon their lips! Innkeeper, Mine Host of the Tabard, I well recall that Baltimore performance -- not as enthralling perhaps as the famous night in Virginia City when, in the throes of those magic lines -- "A horse, a horse, my kingdom for a horse!!" a somewhat inebriated gentleman in the back said, "By God, I got a palamino outside'll do you in a pinch!!!" -- still, it was a time, now, alas, in the deep bosom of the ocean buried. Mr. Mbo, glad to find a fellow conspirator against the darkness: you have donned the buskins!!! Ah, what to play? Macbeth? Henry at Agincourt, as suggested by this delightful creature, who hangs upon the cheek of night like a rich jewel in an Ethiop's ear? Or something deeper? Caviar to the general? (Pensively puts head in hands, like Viola listening to the Duke of Illyria) Perhaps Marlowe?. No. I have always found in my experience that the Great Plains do not lend themselves to Marlowe, though a quick tableau of his immortal Tamberlaine riding through Persepolis did prolong a recent profitable stay in Butte, Montana. Of course I am not speaking of his somewhat fruitier efforts from which all but the cognoscenti turn aside, but!!! One would have thought that his broad hexameters would find their echo in these vast spaces -- but no -- !! It is the tragedies of the Bard that hold the stage, even here among the sagebrush and the saddlebags. AND WHY??? (He stands in the noble heavenpointing pose that was painted in Baltimore as a tribute by a subscription from the Ladies Shakespearean Guild and Debating Society, revealing the shocking current state of his trousers) "Because this is a land of fate, of figures barely met at wagon crossings to whom we become bound as upon a wheel of and so on!!! FATE!!! Who knows but that in a rustic taverna such as this we may meet one upon whose bosom our last breath may be wrung from us expiring? NOBILITY!!!We see nobility in the calm gaze of the Sioux chieftan as he is being disembowelled, examining his own entrails to check on the progress of his evisceration!! STORMS!!! We reel from the insignificance of human hope as the passes close down for another winter, howling hurricanoes!! We witness in the great tapestry of sunset, the cloud-capped towers, the final consummation of our failed hopes and exhausted dreams!!! (collapses into chair, weeping, one leg extended casually).
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: catspaw49 Date: 25 Jan 00 - 10:33 AM Uh....Morenays there buddy. Thet wuz reel purty whattever it wuz ya sed, but I doan no thet langwage. Do ya' know ennything in English? Say, maybe you cud use one of theez possum whistles, ya' think? Lamphear |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 10:42 AM Mr. De Mornay...I ken put ye richt at home with some Shakespeare songs I know..."Hey Ho The Wind & The Rain" is one durn guid one, from "Twelfth Night." Then I gots "Sigh No More Ladies" from "Much Ado About Nuffin'" and "How Should I Your True Love Know" from my all-time fav-o-reet "Hamlet." Ye reckon that'll be sum ennertainmint? --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Amos Date: 25 Jan 00 - 10:52 AM When and I was but a little bitty boy With hey and a ho and the wind and the rain A foolish thing was but a toy For the rain it raineth ev'ry day!
(Shakes head dumfounded) I jes' remembered anudder one, but I forgot it... oh..."It was a Lover and His Lass", with a heay and a Ho and a hey-nonnie-no! But I think I'll go visit the pit about now. (Staggers out the door into the biting wind, which is eerily lit with the first traces of dawnlight. The party has run the night through, but with pie for breakfast no-one shows signs of letting up. Somewhere on the frozen tundra, a gray wolf howls hungrily.) |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Peter T. Date: 25 Jan 00 - 10:57 AM (Lifts head from moving tableau)"What hempen homespuns have we swaggering here???Faith, little rustic groundling, thou hast some crochets in thy head. Were I a denizen of the realms of gold, your, um, paraphenalia might well ornament a theme, swell a progress, defy augury. Yet, I do desire we might be better strangers!" (extends hand in pose of Brutus with cabal of conspirators) |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Lola L'Amour Date: 25 Jan 00 - 11:01 AM Darlings, how refeeened you gentlemen all are! I knew I was in a quality place the minute I entered! Now, would anyone here like to give Lola a little something to drink? And mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm, those biscuits smell de-lishous! My daddy used to recite Shakespeare- he was such a ladies man! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: catspaw49 Date: 25 Jan 00 - 11:08 AM Hey Lola. You seem ta be a girl who knows what she wants an gits it.......So I wuz wundrin ifn ya wanted sum possum pelts? Arsehole whistle? Dictionary? Lamphear |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 11:23 AM Well slap the dog 'n' spit in the fire! I done almost fergot "The Willow Song." That there's from "Othello." That Shakespeare boy was one durn guid lyricks writer! Well now, Mr.Mornay, is that me yer extendin' yer hand towards? My excellent guid friend! --Mbo |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Peter T. Date: 25 Jan 00 - 11:27 AM "O vile, intolerable, not to be endured! (raises hand in the horror that astonished New Mexico's first performance of Othello) Madame, resist this churl, who, upon closer examination, appears to be walking evidence for the recent Mr. Darwin's ape theory. Hear this, thou age unbred! Ere you were born was beauty's summer dead!! Present company excepted, of course. (ostentatiously turns back on living mound of rags). Mr Mbo, Amos, play on, give me excess of it. Is it not strange that sheep's guts should hale souls out of men's bodies!!!??" |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Roger the skiffler Date: 25 Jan 00 - 11:29 AM A jug of ale or a bottle of moonshine, quick, I've just escaped from ye Neil Young stockade where I was locked up for selling weapons to the locals. Yes, these things carved from rosewood I call kazoos and the varmints call terror sticks, for my playing has been known to empty a settlement, nay maybe a whole colony. I've seen men in coonskin caps but is that a wench with a cat on her head and a man blowing a possum's...? I think I'll get back to the stockade. RtS |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: MMario Date: 25 Jan 00 - 11:34 AM *blush,stumble,trip,* uhm---h-howdy ther miz Lola. *gulp,blush,stammer* Cud I gettcher sumthin'? Ter drink, I mean? *trying not to stare and failing miserably* |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 11:40 AM Well deedley-duh myself--that there insureection was last June--don't rightly know WHAT it 'twas made men think it were ten year back! Thank ye kindly fer the compliments, Mr. de Mornay...what should I play next?....hmmmm....what was that strain again? It had a dying fall...oh yeah..."Who Is Sylvia" from "Two Gen'l'men From Verona." Funny 'un there...now where's my dog and staff? --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Amos Date: 25 Jan 00 - 11:44 AM (Comes back in with wet snow clinging to the baconfat in his slicked back hair, obviosuly having attempted to clean his own self up outa respeck fer the curvacious types around. Recites.) Ther' wunce wuz a Katter, called Spaw Who carved whistles from all that he saw! From nuts, and rose blossoms, An' the arses o' possums! Now, ain't that aginst nacherl law? (Serves self coffee and borries a piece of Lolita's apple pie). |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Amos Date: 25 Jan 00 - 11:46 AM (Comes back in with wet snow clinging to the baconfat in his slicked back hair, obviously having attempted to clean his own self up outa respeck fer the curvacious types around. Recites.)
Ther' wunce wuz a Katter, called Spaw (Serves self coffee and borries a piece of Lolita's apple pie, with an inept wink). |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 11:49 AM Bravi, bravi, bravissimi, Amos! Yull be up there on the stage with Mr. de Mornay beefur ye know it! A man of infinite wit--FLOURISH! --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: MMario Date: 25 Jan 00 - 11:53 AM Dang, Amos! yer narly as good at that there speechifyin' as that shake-a-spear feller them's talkin' bout! 'n a heck of a lot easier t'unnerstan! but cud ya move a snitch ta yer left? I can't see miz lola none, with ya sittin ther. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Peter T. Date: 25 Jan 00 - 12:03 PM (Cassius sizes up house, er, patrons. Sits down in chair, heaves sigh faintly reminiscent of Mercutio dying). Ah, my friends, heavy is the head. (head begins to nod). We have been travelling many days through the rooky wood to this pleasant seat. There is no bottom to it, so he sells bottoms. Sleep, that knits up the ravelled sleeve -- (looks at unravelling sleeve on his coat) ravelled? Unravelled? Ravelled? (mesmerized by his own coat edge) The thread's the thing...!!!"(falls asleep like Demetrius and Helena in the enchanted wood). |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Metchosin Date: 25 Jan 00 - 12:23 PM Bravo to you too Peter T. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Amos Date: 25 Jan 00 - 12:28 PM I second that! Never saw an orator could flog the dithyrambs like Peter T.!! Amazing one and all, the voices that have echoed in this tumbledown and godforesaken place this night. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 12:32 PM We-eel now, I knowed a Bottom once, "a real ciuco" as my grandpop used te say. Now what kinder folk in there richt mind don't love Mr.Shakespeare? I think it's O monstrous O strange, een fact. Oioioioioioioioioio! --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Amos Date: 25 Jan 00 - 12:39 PM How d'ye pronounce thet last word, Sir Mbo? 'Tis passing strange, the very characters do drift before my eyes, and hell's impassioned choirs cloud my mind to close off all reason from the reading of it! Izzat kinda like E-I-E-I-O?? A. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 12:50 PM The answer is this, Friend Amos: "Yoyoyoyoyoyoyoyoyo!" It's Italian--but Mr. Shakespeare sho 'nuff seemed te like it a whole lot! Folks used both as a vocable and also they used te holler at ther dawgs when they went huntin'. Kinder like to cheer 'em on. --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: MMario Date: 25 Jan 00 - 01:01 PM Matthew m'bo; y'mean when we's herding the cattle and shouts out at them, we talkin' EYE-talian? like them oh-pera people an'all? Don that beat all! My grampa he spoke eye-talian but none of the resta the family has since then. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 01:09 PM Ye sure are speakin' Italian--comes from ever erlier Latin, too. The sho' nuff say it a lot in Carmina Burana! Mister Mario, my grandpa & grandma (Lord rest ther souls) both talked Italian--their mas and pas came over from the old country to Philly 'round the turn o' the century. Nunna the younger generations spake it though--too bad. All we got is some old Italian sayins and words--like "cuicco." Durn--I went'n spelled it wrong up thar! --Matthew (Matteo Eduardo Riccardo) |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Lonesome EJ Date: 25 Jan 00 - 01:30 PM Now, ssshhh all, for the great man has fell asleep. Lamphear, do ye grab a holt of his feet whilst I lift under his shoulders like so...like SO.. er, the gentleman's personage is a bit weightier than I guessed. Mario, if ye would grab holt under his right arm there the we will trundle him back to Mr Spiegel's own four-poster. Gentle with him, now. What a honor it was to have him disporting Shakespeare like he done here in our store. Throw that grizzly bear rug over him, so's he stays toasty. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Lola Date: 25 Jan 00 - 04:37 PM Well, Mister de Morney, you do talk real pretty, but these other gentlemen have done me the honors with food and drink (thank you kindly, dear sirs). Now, I've been given to understand that this establishment is well-known for its fine music, but I haven't heard much since I've arrived. Can any of you fine men give us a song? Or play for me, whilst I give a rendition of "A Bird in a Gilded Cage"? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: MMario Date: 25 Jan 00 - 04:44 PM Never you fear Miz Lola! I'll git ya out of that there cage! *shakes head, puzzled* (I don't see no cage, does any of you? I'm afeared Miz Lola is a bit teched...must be the journey. Them delicate wominfolk don't travel too well) How about a rendition of "Blue Bleedin' Blind Drunk"? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 04:47 PM Alright folks, the link to Hearme is here. Hope to see you soon! Now what about a time...is 8:30 (EST) good? --Mbo |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Lola Date: 25 Jan 00 - 04:49 PM Well, sir, I'm willing to hear anything... once. But would you please stop drooling on my shoes??? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 04:50 PM OOPS! The above message was supposed to go in another thread. I must be going stunod! --Mbo |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: katlaughing Date: 25 Jan 00 - 04:59 PM Who's talkin' about me cat on ma' head?? This'n's too big for setting anywheres on me, doncha know?! Ah, well, guid souls, I'll never live thet one down! Throw me a biscuit or two and I am goin' out to the teepee, come wiht me or no. This night's been a long'un and a lady needs her reast, yer know? Sides that I've got to git back to my People soon's the storm lifts; they's waitin' for the flour and sich like I'm bringin. No, I'll be fine, wiht them dawgs and my feline Lucky Charm, I'd sweat to death afore I'd freeze getting back no matter how much the devil blows through the snow. Got ta git me some rst...'sfine time last night, ya'll. Thank yew and see you when i gits up. Any o'you gals wanna bunk out there wiht the dawgs, you jist slip in quick and quiet & they won't take yer heads off. I'll hol down m'kitty kat. As she walks out, she shakes her head, thinking, "Damn fools...they went an dumped that booklarnin' gent in there on the fourposter, right on top of that Mrs. Eye D. Clare! Guess they didn't see her in there with all them eiderdowns over her. Should be real interestin' when them two's wake up." She shuts the door, chuckling and rubbing behind the mountain lion's ears. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 05:00 PM Weee-eel, Ma'am, woodja like to hear "Flow My Tears." It's by a guy named John Dowland--ever heerd o' him? Songs a bit old, but lots of fun--'scuse me while I clear my weezand--I'm a baritone--not a tenor! --Mbo |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: MMario Date: 25 Jan 00 - 05:05 PM *evil grin* need to hit a high note there, matthew? It can be arranged! jess lemmee go grap a chunk a that fahrwood... (ps - you got a midi and lyrics on that?)
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 05:08 PM I sure do wonder what 'zactly Mr. de Mornay is sleep perchancin' to dream about? I was readin' Mr.Dickens serial in the gazeteer...this Scrooge feller said "I can find nothing so helpful to the constitution as a night of uninterrupted sleep." Said that to a ghost, he did. Eemagine that! BTW I don't have to worry eeny about yer big kitty--I got one o' my own at home who's a really bad cat--but not to me though--she knows I won't let her chomp on me! --Mbo |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 05:50 PM Mister Mario, you can heer the MIDI rict here. It's at the bottom of the page. Click on MIDI to hear it--but close out the website window--or the Machaut piece will keep playing and you won't bee able to heer the MIDI. The words are: Flow my tears, fall from your springs! Exiled forever, let me mourn Where night's blackbird, her sad infamy sings There let me live forlorn. Down, vain lights, shine you no more! No nights are dark enough for those That in despair their lost fortunes deplore Light doth but shame disclose. Never may my woes be relieved, since pity is fled And tears, and sighs, and groans My weary days, my weary days Of all joys have deprived. From the highest spire of contentment, my fortune is thrown And fear, and grief, and pain, For my deserts, for my deserts Are my hopes, since hope is gone. Hark! You shadows that in darkness dwell, Learn to condemn light. Happy, happy they that in hell feel Not the the world's despite. --Mbo |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Lola Date: 25 Jan 00 - 06:06 PM Oh, Mister Mbo!!! That was too, too sad and bee-youtiful for words! I must thank you for that song! C'mon over hear, darling, so's I can thank you proper! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 06:49 PM Yer mighty welcome, Ma'am! I'm a-comin'! --Mbo |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mikal Date: 25 Jan 00 - 06:53 PM Fine tune, I do believe. And I am like to hear no finer! More port, good friends? I have several more bottles before I am done. "She was in a flowry' garden when first she caught my eye, And I was a passing soldier, she smiled as I passed by. The flowers she held were fresh and fair, and her lips were full and red. And as I passed that shady bower, these were the words she said; Last night we spoke of love, and now we're forced to part, Y' leave to the sound of a marching drum, and the beat of a lover's heart." There was a fair maid I knew in the homeland. Dark of hair and eye, but pure honey in her soul. By all the powers, I wish I could see her now! Sergeant! Are you a sportin' man? I've a few bits of cards about me, and a sure hand at the pasteboards is a lonely thing in these parts. (Michael MacLeod produces a well worn deck, and begins to shuffle.) Mikal |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Caitrin Date: 25 Jan 00 - 08:05 PM I wouldn't mind a hand of poker, Mr. McLeod, if ya don't mind my joinin' in. How do ya feel about five card draw? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 25 Jan 00 - 08:10 PM Hey now folks, jest a reminder, I'm hosting a Robert Burns singalong at Hearme at 8:30. The link to Hearme is in the thread "Burns Night on Hearme Tonight" if'n ye want to hear some richt guid Scots music! --Mbo |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Dave (the ancient mariner) Date: 25 Jan 00 - 08:49 PM A lovely song that Speed Bonny Boat, brings good memories and many a tear to my eye's How much is that haggis? I'll have a bit and a bucket O'fish for Miss Emma's polar bear here..Oh dont worry he's friendly and just hungover..She lost her jug of best French brandy to this one and he wandered off. Guy and my other friends are escorting the latest batch of beanie bears back to the ship. I thought I would send this one on the next one.. Ahh a good ale and some Scottish wedding cake (porridge) just the thing, I'll sit tight and listen in, hey Mbo give us the "black bear" on yer bagpipes, and you can have this silver shilling the king gave me....... |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Susan A-R Date: 25 Jan 00 - 11:20 PM I believe I will set a bit (after I give that nice bear some fish. I do like a nice polar bear. I fancy myself related to the species and my husband quite agrees) I have made so many biscuits and pies over the past few days that I am ready to rest and have a bit of that lovely port. It bein the 25th of January, would anyone join me in singin' Aye Fond Kiss, It Was A For Our Rightfu King, or My Love is Like a Red Red Rose, or if those are too sedate, we could do Nine Inch Will Please a Lady. Such a lovely melody. |
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Subject: Lyr Add: MY LOVE IS LIKE A RED RED ROSE (R Burns) From: Dave (the ancient mariner) Date: 26 Jan 00 - 07:30 AM O, my luve is like a red, red rose, that's newly sprung in June. O, my love is like a melodie, that's sweetly play'd in tune.
As fair thou art, my bonnie lass,
Till a' the seas gang dry, my dear,
And fare the weel, my only luve! Ahhh Susan what a song, even the bear is crying..... Robbie Burns you wrote a fine one there laddie..A toast to yer talent mate....LEJ a glass of yer best fer all hands in the house, here's a sovereign to cover the bill... |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: GUEST,Mbo Date: 26 Jan 00 - 08:39 AM Ahhh...Cap'n Dave--I love that there song. Always brings a tear to me e'e. *Sighhhhhh* --Matthew |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Amos Date: 26 Jan 00 - 09:05 AM Ya gotta wonder -- these folks here tucked into a lil bend in a Western river, far from civilization, dressed like street ragamuffini, talking like they drink muddy water an' sleep in hollow logs; an' yet they always got them sovereigns to throw around, like so many dern yuppies. Yew s'pose they got an ATM out by the outhouse? How come they so ready with shillings an' sovereigns an' other such kinds o' coorintsy? Lak tuh get me some of them sovereigns! A |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: MMario Date: 26 Jan 00 - 09:18 AM Amos - we allays got them sov-rains 'cuz we done drew on Berts Platinum Simmolion card. See, we just signs our names and Bert pays. Nice trick, eh? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Dave (the ancient mariner) Date: 26 Jan 00 - 10:22 AM Amos, them that asks no questions dinna get told lies, I'm the furthest thing from a yuppie you'll ever find in Mudcat. I captured Pirates, free'd slaves and smuggled French brandy fer years, Aye and Lady Emma is my daughter though she dont know it, born to a rich noblemans daughter married to a Duke. If I put a sovereign on the table fer me friends comfort, enjoy the food and drink, yer right welcome. Remember the old Irish saying "I realized fear one morning when the horn of the Fox hunter sounds, And it came to me that when everyone is chasing the poor bloody fox, Tis best to be dressed like the hounds" Dont let the clothes and rough manner fool ye, I'm in disguise. With a knowing wink to Amos, another round here please LEJ, and keep that good music playing this is a fine place ye have here. Good company and friends are hard to find in the wilds, but we are amongst friends, so lets have a dance tonight, and invite the ladies round..... |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: MMario Date: 26 Jan 00 - 10:31 AM DAVE'S BUYING!!!!!! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Caitrin Date: 26 Jan 00 - 11:03 AM Well, this thread is gettin' a bit long. So, I'm taking us down to the Mudcat Speakeasy, with all the hooch and jazz that a bunch of crazed folkies can handle! |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: MMario Date: 26 Jan 00 - 11:08 AM Is Dave still buying? |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Amos Date: 26 Jan 00 - 01:49 PM Ah, Caitrin, lass, if its your curvely self is leading us forward about a century in one swell foop, I'm comin' too. I'd follow ye anywhere. Just a sec while I change personalities....OK, sweetheart, here's looking achoo! Ya got the time, I got the money! A little hootch and a lotta kootchie! (Well, it needs some practice -- the timewarp does funny things to the ID-swapper circuit). A |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Dave (the ancient mariner) Date: 26 Jan 00 - 04:13 PM Dave is still buying if the ladies are dancing in the speak easy.....Beam me over to.....South Chicago??? I know it right well. |
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Subject: RE: Mudcat Spiegel's Trading Post and Tavern From: Mikal Date: 26 Jan 00 - 10:16 PM (He looks around the room one last time. There is a smile on his face that seems a bit broader than the last.) This one worked. I liked it. (He walks out of the door into the soft wet snow, looking for the trails they left. There, not threefeet away, a tired, worn door with a sliding peephole hangs between two trees. He approaces it slowly, taking in all the changes that walking to it brings. He knocks...) Max sent me. (The door opens, and his long black coat is now shorter, styled to the suit he wears. The drum still hangs by his side, now in a bag of leather, but the Blunderbuss is missing and a single action bulldog fourty four hangs in the holster under his arm. A dollar Havana is in his hand, looking for a light...) My momma done told me, when I was in knee pants.... (The door closes behind him, and he is gone.) Mikal |
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