Subj: Dark Light -- 22
Date: 6/5/99
From: Flashman

Chapter 22-Monday

(I)

It was an hour and fourty-five minutes before the scheduled sunrise. Barnabas and Annie sat alone in Alan Spaulding's study. Cassie had gone back to Barnabas's house to await his return. Alan and Fran were both asleep somewhere in the mansion. Beth was at Phillip's house, watching over Lizzie unseen from the shadows. Both Annie and Barnabas hoped that she would make it back safely to her coffin before sunrise.

Barnabas knew now that it was time to reveal all about Laura Murdoch to Annie. Time to reveal what Laura Murdoch had said to him earlier in the night when she had telephoned. Barnabas revealed everything about who and what Laura Murdoch was and what she had planned for the Lewis children.

"No! No! We've got to stop it! We've got to! Even if it means revealing ourselves," shrieked Annie.

"Annie we may not be able to. This woman has great powers. Probably great enough to defeat us both," said Barnabas.

"But we can tell Josh and Reva. They can get Marah and Shayne out of there and away from that woman," pleaded Annie.

"What makes you think they would believe us? They despise us both," pointed out Barnabas.

"We've got to go over there and get Marah and Shayne out of that house."

"Annie, there isn't enough time. Sunrise is coming. If we did that we might not be able to reach our coffins before sunrise."

"I'm calling Josh and Reva right now. We can't let this happen. I love those children," cried Annie.

Annie picked up the receiver to the telephone. Barnabas jerked the cord out of its socket in the wall.

"Why Barnabas, why?" Annie was sobbing heavily now. "I never wanted this to happen. I love those children. It's Josh and Reva I want to destroy. Oh God, I should have chosen death or being returned to prison. I can't have Marah and Shayne's blood on my conscience."

Barnabas looked at Annie as she sank to the ground crying uncontrollably. For the first time he realized for certain that she had once been a decent and caring person. She loved those children more than anything, even enough to risk her own survival. He remembered the many tragedies that had dogged his own lifetime, both as a mortal and as a vampire. If he were to allow Laura's plan to proceed this would be as great, if not greater.

Barnabas decided upon a new course of action. It may not be able to prevent what was about to occur but it was worth the risk. Those children had to be saved, at least for the moment.

"All right, Annie. Here is what we will do. Tomorrow, I'll have Cassie remove Marah and Shayne from school at an earlier time. She'll bring them over to my place. I'll have her call Josh and Reva and inform them that she was missing them and decided to take them to dinner," said Barnabas. "Marah and Shayne will stay at my house with Cassie and myself until their parents return from Collinsport."

"What about that Laura woman? What if she tries something else?" asked Annie.

"We'll both go over to the Lewis house after we've arisen and talk with her. Maybe we can reason with her and convince her not to harm the children."

"What about when Josh and Reva return? What then?" asked Annie.

"With Marah and Shayne in our hands we should be able to bargain our way out of any potential trouble. We may have to leave Springfield. Everyone. You, me, Alan, Cassie, Beth, and Fran. Perhaps we can return at a later date," said Barnabas.

"But if Josh and Reva find out nothing what will we do about the children?"

"We'll simply return them to their parents. I'll have Cassie inform them that she found out that Laura is a spy for Alan Spaulding. She can reveal that I informed her of this fact and use it as evidence of my good faith toward the Lewis family," responded Barnabas.

"That may ease their minds, assuming they find nothing in Collinsport. What if this woman tries something else?"

"She probably won't. She can always go elsewhere and find a new victim," said Barnabas. "Besides, I have an idea how we can defeat her. I'll give you the details tonight after we rise."

Barnabas then walked to the living room of Spaulding Manor. He called Cassie at his house on the extension there.

"Hello," she said groggily.

"Cassie, this is Barnabas. Listen carefully. Here's what I want you to do tomorrow. Please pay attention. It's a matter of life and death....."

In the meantime Annie had departed to return to her coffin in the attic of Spaulding Manor. She paused to ponder the events which had just happened. After several minutes she was joined by Beth. Annie was glad that Beth had arrived on time. Beth noticed the forlorn look on Annie's face.

"What's the matter, Annie? You look like you've been crying."

"I have been, Beth. Something unforeseen just happened. It could be tragic," replied Annie.

"What is it?" asked a worried Beth. She figured that perhaps the police had found some evidence in Harley's murder.

"Reva and Josh are going to Collinsport, Maine tomorrow. That's where Barnabas is from. There's a chance they might find out too much. If that happens we might all have to pack up and leave Springfield. Soon," answered Annie.

"But what about Lizzie? I don't want to leave her," said Beth.

"I'm sorry, Beth, but this is a difficult and dangerous lifestyle we've both chosen. Sometimes difficult decisions have to be made. Besides, if it happens, it won't be for a couple of days. You'll still have plenty of time to say goodbye."

"Yes, Annie. I suppose you're right."

Both Annie and Beth then got into their coffins and went to sleep.

(II)

Reva and Josh were packing their bags into their car. Cassie had just called. She stated she had picked up Marah and Shayne at school and was going to spend the evening with them. Josh thought this was good. Cassie adored them both and maybe some time in their presence would ease her troubled mind. Reva did not agree.

"Bud, we've got to go get Marah and Shayne right now. They could be in real danger with that Barnabas Collins or whatever his name is," she said.

"Nonsense. You know that Cassie adores Marah and Shayne. She'd never let any harm come to them. Besides, she said that she's taking them to Buzz's Diner for dinner and after that she's bringing them straight home. They won't even see Collins. Besides, we've got a plane to catch."

Laura Murdoch then pulled her car into the driveway. She got out of the car with a frantic look on her face.

"Mr. and Mrs. Lewis, thank God you haven't left yet. Marah and Shayne weren't at school when I went to pick them up. I don't know what's happened. The vice-principal said a blonde woman came to pick them up. I thought perhaps it might be that Annie Dutton you told me about. Maybe she's back in town," said Laura.

"Relax, Laura. Take it easy. Marah and Shayne are with Cassie. They're spending the evening together," informed Josh.

"Thank God. I was so worried. I didn't know what to do," said Laura.

What a loyal person, Reva thought. Why she's shaking like a leaf. Oh, was she wonderful. They wouldn't have to worry about the children as long as Laura was around.

"Laura, if the children aren't back by 8:00 p.m. I want you to go over to Barnabas Collins's house. That's where they'll probably be. It's directly across the street from where Blake Marler lives. Do you know where that is?" asked Reva.

"Yes, Mrs. Lewis. I'm familiar with that neighborhood."

"Good. Get them out of that house. If Barnabas Collins gives you any trouble, call the police. Have him arrested for kidnapping," directed Reva.

"Now, Reva. Don't go scaring Laura. Everything's going to be all right. Cassie will probably bring them home way before then," said Josh.

"Very well, Mrs. Lewis," said Laura. "I'll do as you say."

"Get Blake to help you if you want. I'll call her from the cell phone on the way to the airport," said Reva. "I'll tell her what's going on."

"That sounds fine, Mrs. Lewis."

Josh and Reva then got into their car and drove to the airport. Once they arrived in Boston Reva would call home and make sure everything was all right. If not, she would contact the Springfield Police herself. Nobody messes with Reva Shayne's family. Nobody.

Laura gazed at the Lewises car as it drove out of sight. So, Barnabas Collins had double-crossed her. She would be unable to carry away Marah and Shayne in the flames with her today. No matter, it would happen soon enough, but perhaps it might be time for a showdown with Barnabas Collins. He had interfered with her plans and she might have to teach him a lesson.

She would force him to return those children to her care. Either that or she would expose him. Expose him and destroy him!!!

(III)

Laura drove to the neighborhood where Barnabas Collins's house was located. She pulled her car into Blake Marler's driveway. Laura had called Blake before departing the Lewis house and had been informed by her that Cassie Layne's car was in the Collins driveway. Laura had been told that Cassie and the children had arrived there around 7:00 p.m. and that the children appeared safe and happy.

Blake Marler immediately came running out of her house upon seeing Laura's car pull into her driveway.

"Oh Laura, thank God you're here," she said.

"Mrs. Marler, is anything wrong? I thought you said Marah and Shayne appeared fine," queried Laura.

"They are, as far as I know. It's just that I've been so worried since Reva called me earlier."

"Just relax, Mrs. Marler. I'm sure everything will be fine. You stay here and I'll go and get the children."

"Don't you want me to come with you? There may be trouble and you might need help," pointed out Blake.

"Don't worry. I'm sure everything is okay. Marah and Shayne are probably having an extended visit with Miss Layne. They haven't seen much of each other lately and they're probably doing some catching up," replied Laura.

"But you might be in danger if you go over there by yourself. That Barnabas Collins is a maniac. He absolutely manhandled my brother a few nights ago."

"Mrs. Marler, I'll be all right. I'm sure Mr. Collins wouldn't dare hit a woman. Besides, Miss Layne is there too. She loves Marah and Shayne almost as much as she did her own child. She won't let anything happen.

"Anyway, to assuage your fear, if I'm not out of the house in fifteen minutes, call the police. We'll see what Mr. Collins does then."

"Okay, if you say so. I'll stay here in my yard. If anything happens make a run for the door and scream," said Blake.

"That sounds fine. I'll go over there now," said Laura.

"Be careful."

As she crossed the street Laura was glad she had talked Blake Marler out of going with her. She too feared exposure. Now, if only Barnabas Collins would turn over those children. Then everything would be all right and she wouldn't have to use her powers.

Laura walked up to the front door and rang the doorbell. Cassie Layne answered immediately. Laura brushed past Cassie and advanced toward Barnabas, who was sitting on the sofa in the living room.

"All right, Barnabas. Where are Marah and Shayne?" demanded Laura.

"They're upstairs watching television in Cassie's room," was the response.

"Bring them down here to me at once," commanded Laura.

"Not so fast, Ms. Murdoch. We have some business to discuss first."

"I'm not here to play games, Barnabas Collins. You know what my powers are and you know that I will use them if you don't give me those children right now. You seem to forget that fire can destroy a vampire as well as a mortal man," threatened Laura.

"I'm well aware of that, Ms. Murdoch. Cassie, go upstairs and get the children. Take them back to the Lewis house. Stay there and wait for me to call you," instructed Barnabas.

"Are you sure, Barny Warny? I thought you wanted them to stay away from her."

"Don't worry, Cassie. Just do as I say. Ms. Murdoch and I have some business to discuss. The less you know, the less worried you will be. Don't worry, my dear. Evrything will be fine.

"Oh, tell our dear friend Mrs. Marler that you're taking the children home. I'm sure she knows exactly what Ms. Murdoch has come for at this house. Tell her that Ms. Murdoch will be joining you shortly and that she is in no danger," instructed Barnabas.

Cassie went upstairs and got Marah and Shayne. When they came downstairs they both seemed delighted to see Laura. She hugged them both.

"Don't worry, my darlings. Everything will be all right. Aunt Cassie is taking you home. I'll be there to join you soon. Mr. Collins and I have some matters of importance to discuss."

Both children said okay and departed with Cassie. Barnabas peered out the window and observed Cassie explaining things to Blake, who was still standing in her yard. After a few seconds Blake walked back into her house. Cassie got into her car and drove off.

"Ms. Murdoch, you'd better call Mrs. Marler right now and pacify her. We want to make sure she doesn't do anything foolish. There's no need for an innocent party to get caught up in our little confrontation," said Barnabas.

Laura replied, "Very well. There's no need for that. Besides, you've already given me what I came for. That is, unless you and Miss Layne had something pre-arranged."

"I assure you that nothing was pre-arranged. Cassie is taking the children back to the Lewis house. There they shall stay. Now call Mrs. Marler."

Laura did as she was instructed. She got Blake on the first ring and told her that everything was fine. Blake didn't sound entirely mollified but when Laura told her that she was going to have a cup of coffee with Barnabas and see if she could garner some new information, Blake calmed down. Don't worry, Laura said, Mr. Collins went down to his basement and can't hear me.

"An excellent ruse, Ms. Murdoch. An excellent ruse."

"Yes, Mr. Collins. I'm surprised you acqueisced so easily to my demands. I thought we might have a struggle of titanic proportions. Much like the one I had with Angelique in 1897," said Laura.

"As I recall, you lost that one," remembered Barnabas.

"Yes, I did. But I've won tonight. I guess in baseball terms that means I'm batting .500."

"Are you? Are you sure you've won?" said Barnabas with a sinister tone in his voice.

Laura realized then that maybe she'd been hoodwinked, "Those children had better be at the Lewis house. If I return there and find them gone I'll return and burn your house to the ground. I may not get you but so help me if I've been double-crossed you'll rue the day we ever crossed paths again."

"Let me assure you once again that the children are on their way home. They're back in your grasp, so to speak," said Barnabas. "Laura, if I may call you that, why don't we sit and chat for a while. Catch up on old times. You can tell me how you happened to arrive in the fair city of Springfield and I will do the same."

"I don't feel like going over old times. Let's just agree to stay out of each other's way from now on."

"At least let me fix you that cup of coffee you told Mrs. Marler about over the telephone. You don't want to depart so soon and have her get suspicious again. Besides, I'm expecting a very important phone call that concerns us both," revealed Barnabas.

"Very well," replied Laura.

Barnabas arose from the sofa and went into the kitchen. Laura felt very uneasy. Why had Barnabas given up so easily? She had expected a dangerous confrontation but instead he had happily turned over the children to her. Then he had mentioned he was expecting a phone call that would be important to them both. Perhaps she hadn't won yet. Maybe Barnabas Collins still had a trick up his sleeve.

Barnabas soon returned to the living room with a cup of coffee. Laura informed him that she would drink it black. She brought the cup to her lips and began to sip. That's when the telephone rang. Barnabas answered on the second ring. He stood silent for a moment and then responded:

"You found it. Excellent. Bring it over to the house....Yes, she's here right now. I think she should meet you and hear what you have to say.....No, I don't think there will be any trouble......I think that Laura Murdoch and yourself are going to reach an understanding." Barnabas then hung up the phone.

"Who was that?" asked Laura.

"A close friend of mine. She's the reason I came to Springfield in the first place. I met her when she freed me from my chained coffin," said Barnabas. "Since you've been living at the Lewis household I'm sure you'll recognize the name. That was Annie Dutton on the telephone."

Laura Murdoch gasped.

(IV)

The short commuter flight to Chicago was mercifully uneventful for Josh and Reva. Then a short layover at O'Hare International and on to Boston. Reva called her house from the phone in the plane. Cassie had answered. The children were all right, she had said. She was staying with them because Laura had decided to take in a movie. No, Barnabas hadn't minded. In fact, he had insisted that Cassie start spending more time with her family. He likes the fact that we're all very close-knit. It's something he never enjoyed in his own family when he was growing up.

I'll just bet, thought Reva. I wonder why Laura decided to go to a movie. Probably just stressed out from the day's events. Laura really didn't have much of a social life. Reva felt she needed to get out more. Meet some people. Maybe she could fix her up with Billy once he got out of Betty Ford. They hadn't really hit it off that well when Laura first came to work for the Lewises but Laura would warm up to him. Everyone loved Billy Lewis.

The plane had a smooth landing at Logan International airport in Boston. Josh and Reva deplaned, picked up their rental car from Hertz, and drove to their hotel. The check-in there was smooth. Everything was going to plan especially now that they had learned that their children were safe and sound.

Josh and Reva got undressed and hopped into bed. Tomorrow, thought Reva. Tomorrow Reva Shayne was going to get answers. This Barnabas Collins or whoever he was, was going down and he was going to go down hard. She was Reva Shayne and she would crush him. She would crush him just like she had crushed Annie Dutton.

Reva turned to Josh once they had both gotten into bed and said, "Hey Bud, how about one last fuck before we blow Barnabas Collins out of the water?"

Josh Lewis grinned and replied, "Okay, Reva. Whatever you say."

(V)

Annie Dutton entered the house through the back door about thirty minutes after she had called Barnabas. She had walked over from the Lewis house because she had an object which she was carrying with her. An object that meant the world to Laura Murdoch. Annie had borrowed a hat and scarf from Laura's dresser. She was still a wanted fugitive and didn't want to be recognized. Annie entered through the back door because she knew Blake Marler would probably be snooping from her window across the street.

She walked through the kitchen door and into the living room. The drapes on the windows were pulled tight. No way anyone could see through them. Just the way Laura Murdoch would want it too, she guessed. If anyone observed them the game might be up. It would be for Laura anyway after tonight but Annie still had another turn at bat and she planned on swinging for the fences, just like Albert Belle.

Laura and Barnabas were sitting on the sofa at opposite ends. At least she's attractive, Annie thought. It was time for the showdown to begin.

Barnabas spoke first, "Miss Laura Murdoch, I'd like for you to meet Annie Dutton."

"Yes, Miss Dutton. I've certainly heard a great deal about you from the Lewises. To listen to them talk you must be the devil incarnate."

"Maybe I am, Laura. Maybe I am," replied Annie.

"All right, let's cut out the silly games. Barnabas here said you had something important to discuss with me. Let's hear it."

Boy, thought Annie. This woman has been hinging around Alan Spaulding too long. She's beginning to sound just like him. Now it was time to give her a trim just like she had given Alan.

"Miss Murdoch, Barnabas and I had a long talk right before you came here tonight. We've both decided that it's time for you to pack your bags and leave town. By tomorrow evening," said Annie.

Laura laughed and replied, "Maybe Mr. Collins didn't fully explain to you who and what I am and also what my powers are. Otherwise, you'd never be talking to me in that tone of voice. And yes, Miss Dutton, I know you are a vampire. But my powers can destroy you as easily as they can destroy a mortal," said Laura.

"Oh Barnabas told me everything about you, Laura. I know what your powers are. He also told me how to defeat you," said Annie. "I'm sure you know what this object is."

Annie revealed a lamp she had been carrying. It had a candle burning inside it. Laura Murdoch looked horrified.

"Give me that," she shrieked.

Laura grabbed at the lamp but Annie pulled it away from her. Barnbas arose from the sofa and restrained Laura.

"It's the source of all your powers, isn't it Laura? If the flame inside were to go out you would be done for. You'd probably go up in flames yourself. I wonder just what would happen," said Annie.

"No! No! Please, Miss Dutton! Don't extinguish that flame. I'll do whatever you want. Just give me back my lamp," begged Laura.

"What do you take me for, a fool?" asked Annie. "You'll not get this lamp until you're safely out of the picture."

"Why are you helping the Lewises? I thought you hated them. I hate them too. Can't you see we're on the same side? If you let me continue with my plans it will destroy that entire, awful family. Completely and forever," said Laura.

"I do hate the Lewises. But only Josh and Reva. I happen to love Marah and Shayne. Despite what Reva might have told you I was a good mother to them both. I love them with all my heart and I'm not going to let a creature like you destroy those children."

"You don't understand. I love Marah and Shayne too. They're both wonderful children. I've got to destroy them precisely because I love them. Someday, they'll realize what truly awful people Josh and Reva are. It will destroy their souls completely. This way they won't ever have to learn. They can find eternal peace without having to know what monsters their parents really are."

Laura then fell down to her knees and began to cry. Annie and Barnabas both stared at her, perplexed.

Laura looked up and continued, "We should be on the same side. Josh and Reva are both bloodsucking monsters. They destroyed your life completely. In time, they'll destroy Marah and Shayne too. Please, please, even if you won't give me back my lamp, promise me that you'll destroy Josh and Reva. Destroy them the way they tried to destroy you.

"Josh, that sanctimonious, hypocritical phony and Reva, that slut. She's the slut of the entire world not just Springfield. She's a greater monster than any vampire, than any werewolf. Oh, please say you'll stop them."

Laura then began to weep uncontrollably. Annie felt strangely sorry for her. At long last, someone else had figured out the truth. The truth about Josh and Reva Lewis. She had been the only one to see it. First with Reva, then later Josh. Now, this Laura Murdoch woman knew it too. And she had arrived at the truth in a shorter period of time than Annie. Annie would have been happy to allow Laura to destroy Josh and Reva had her plan not involved Marah and Shayne. She knew that if Marah and Shayne were to die, Josh and Reva would be destroyed but so would she.

"Get up, Laura," commanded Annie. "It seems we are kindred spirits, you and I. We both see those two awful people for what they truly are. They ruined my life but they don't have to ruin anyone elses. Leave town. Find another awful couple. Leave Josh and Reva to me. I promise that I'll find a way to defeat them. My revenge can be your revenge, too."

Laura rose from the floor. She wiped the tears from her face.

"What about my lamp?" she asked Annie.

"Don't worry. We'll keep it safe. You won't have to worry. Say, I've got an idea. What do you think about Billy Lewis?" asked Annie.

"That filthy drunk. He hit on me the first night I met him. Then, a few days later, he offered me money to seduce his son."

"Why would he want you to do that?" asked Annie.

Laura replied, "Because his son had recently told him he was gay. He wanted me to make a man out of his son. He said that he didn't want a fruit section in his family tree."

"Pardon me, Annie, but where are you going with this line of questioning?" interrupted Barnabas.

"Just trying to tie up a few loose ends," replied Annie. "I'll tell you what I'll do, Laura. I'll give Billy Lewis to you. Do whatever you want with him."

"But he's in California now at the Betty Ford Clinic."

"So, the old drunk fell off the wagon again. That's even better. When you leave town tomorrow, and you will go, Laura, why don't you take a trip out to California and see old Billy? I'm sure his hormones will be glad to see an attractive visitor," said Annie.

"But Marah and Shayne, who will watch them?" asked Laura.

"Don't worry, Cassie can do that," replied Annie.

"Wait a minute, Annie. Cassie has to protect me when I'm dormant during the day," reminded Barnabas.

"How about Matt and Vanessa Reardon?" suggested Annie.

"Yes, they'll both be glad to do it. I'll call them tonight and say that I have an emergency in my family and have to be out of town for a few days. They're both wonderful people. I can't figure for the life of me why they're friends with the Lewises. Especially since Vanessa used to be married to Billy," replied Laura.

"Good. Good. You just head out to California and see old Billy. In a few days we'll contact you. If all goes well, you'll get your lamp back real soon," said Annie.

"Yes, I suppose I can do that. I suppose you should be the one to take down the Lewises after what they did to you. By the way, what's your stake in this, Barnabas?"

Barnabas replied, "At first I was merely an accomplice but now it seems I've become a major player. I barely know the Lewises and while I've hardly been impressed by them I bear them no real malice. However, because of their little sojourn to Collinsport today I fear they will soon become full-fledged enemies. When it comes to my own survival I will do what I must. That's why I originally agreed to your plan. Annie here talked me out of it."

"I see," said Laura.

With those words Laura Murdoch turned and walked out the front door. Barnabas and Annie paused to reflect. Barnabas broke the silence:

"I think I'll call Cassie and tell her to come over here once Laura returns to the Lewis house. The children are in no danger now that we have the lamp. I have a phone call I want Cassie to make."

"I can make it Barnabas," said Annie.

"No, I think it best that Cassie be the one. I want her to try and get in touch with Willie Loomis. He should be back in Collinsport by now. He doesn't have a phone in his cottage at Collinwood but we should be able to contact him at the Blue Whale. He spends most of his evenings there. You said you met Maggie Haskell for a short period of time. I don't want her to recognize your voice. I'm sure Mr. and Mrs. Lewis will get in contact with her when they arrive in Collinsport."

"But we only spoke for a short period of time. There's no way she'll recognize my voice over the phone."

"Be that as it may, we have to be careful. Our very survival is now at stake."

(VI)

Cassie reached Willie at the Blue Whale. Barnabas got on the line. Willie sounded as though he'd had a few drinks under his belt. After the usual introductory words Barnabas got to the point.

"Willie, I need you to do some things for me tomorrow, Go home and get some rest. You're going to need a clear head."

"Sure Barnabas. Jeez, you sound worried," said Willie.

"I am. Both mine and Annie's survival could be at stake. Listen carefully. Two people will be arriving in Collinsport tomorrow. Their names are Josh and Reva Lewis. I expect they will pay a call at Collinwood," said Barnabas.

"Aren't they the two Annie hates?" asked Willie.

"Yes, that is correct. They've gotten suspicious of our activities here in Springfield. They're coming to Collinsport to check up on me," replied Barnabas. "Is there any chance that David and Amy will still be in Florida tomorrow morning?"

"No Barnabas," answered Willie. "They got back this afternoon. A day early."

"Damn!"

"What do you want me to do? Hey, I know. I'll get Gary Johnson and his buddy Mike Hackett to rough them up a little. Maybe they can scare 'em off," said Willie.

"Bad idea," as usual thought Barnabas. "I don't think these two are going to scare easily and your idea will probably bring in the Collinsport police. What I want you to do is keep an eye on Josh and Reva Lewis when they arrive at Collinwood, which I'm certain they will. Find out what, if anything, David tells them about me. Then get in touch with me here in Springfield as soon as you can. I'm going to give you two numbers. The first is my residence. A woman named Cassie Layne may answer. She's the one who called you tonight. The second number is that of a man named Alan Spaulding."

"Is he the one who lives in that big mansion in Springfield?" asked Willie.

"Yes, that is correct. If I'm not available give any information you learn to them. They're both under mine and Annie's power so it will be safe."

Barnabas then gave Willie the numbers. Willie grabbed a pen and wrote them down on a napkin.

"But Barnabas, what if David spills the beans? What are you going to do? Shit, what am I going to do? David, he'll run me off of Collinwood for good this time if he finds out I helped you escape from your coffin," whined Willie.

"If that happens get out here to Springfield as fast as possible. You can come with us. We may already be gone. If we are we'll leave word as to where you can join us," said Barnabas.

"Why don't I just leave now? Hell, I'm gettin' scared already," cried Willie.

"There may be no need for that, Willie. Keep your eyes and ears open and let us know what happens," instructed Barnabas.

"Okay Barnabas, I'll do that," said Willie.

With those words Willie Loomis hung up the phone. He decided to head back to Collinwood. The long walk might clear his head and do him some good. When he started for the door Maggie Haskell looked surprised. Willie usually waited for closing and hitched a ride with her.

"Leaving early, Willie? The woman who called you sounded hot on the phone. Got a big evening planned?" she teased.

"Yeah, Maggie. Something like that," was Willie's response as he exited the premises.

Strange, thought Maggie. He sounded worried, not excited. Oh well, Willie Loomis had always been a little odd.