Mature Content: Not immediately
With: Harland Bryant, any officers of the law, lawyers
Time of Day: Midday
Harland Bryant had arrived once more in Kalispell, this was just one of many towns he frequented on a fairly regular basis given his duties as federal circuit judge. He had come by stage and, because he did not enjoy such rides despite being a frequent traveler on those vehicles, he was not in a good mood. Though there would be some (OK, many) who would say the man was seldom in a good mood.
At least this time his time here would be spent on some worthwhile cases, he was pleased enough for that. A very violent bank robbery attempt had been foiled by the local law but not before an innocent civilian had been murdered. Two of the robbers had been captured and now awaited a trial. And then there was a rather strange case to be presented on the docket too. It seemed one lawman had charged and arrested another one. In all his long years as a circuit judge Harland had yet to sit for a case such as this. At least it should be interesting.
His plan was to stop at the courthouse and law office to inform everyone of his arrival and set things going for an expedited set of trials in just a day or two. He was not one to dally about, he had other towns to go to. Oh and he would need to get a room at the local hotel. He actually liked that particular hotel, he always got the same suite. The rooms were clean and the food was satisfying. It even served alcohol and Harland was no teetotaler.
"The law is the law."
"Mining's not everyone's choice of hobbies, it just happens to be mine."
Speed saw the Circuit Judge, one Harlan Bryant making his way to the hotel. At last, and, on time was his thought. It had been a long wait for justice to arrive in Kalispell, but it was here and soon, perhaps tomorrow, it would all be over.
The outlaws would hang, of that he had no doubt, Case Steelgrave? His disposition was a question mark. But, he had attempted to gain control of his gun, and as far as Speed was concerned, case would have shot him with it.
With Harriet Mercer still away, Speed and the community had to rely on an unproven prosecutor, Dutton Peabody, who had remained sober since he and Speed had discussed his availability. A remarkable turn of events. The man had not touched a drop since being asked to represent Kalispell in the the upcoming trials, though the citizenry were skeptic at best.
Speed thought to head over and see the Judge, then thought perhaps that would not be the smartest of moves, perhaps waiting on him to come to the Municipal building would be the best course of action. So he settled in at his desk with a cup of coffee to wait.