Deuteronomy,

I pray you’ve been in good fortune, brother. Travelers coming up from the city have spoken praisingly of the Pastor Bean of St. Louis. You’ve done well to keep Uncle Vance’s name alive in the city he loved.

I am not sure what you’ve heard about Henshaw. The Marshals might have visited already, or maybe they’re too focused on the real threat to bother with you. I’ve left, abruptly. I hesitate to explain why, as it does not reflect well on my conduct or sanity, and you’ve been critical of the latter for years. But I’ve already asked Corinthia to keep my family safe if something like this happens. I cannot ask her any more than that; it must be you.

Deut, Elle had a son. Everything I said about her, everything you silenced for fear that I’d be put away, it was true; I’m sure the Marshals will agree after what has happened. She had a son. He came to town under the pretense of providing medical care but his true goal appears to be her resurrection, or return to the flesh, or what have you. He’s harmed my flock in the process. What he has done to Henshaw, the blame falls on my head. I have broken the law while failing to stop him, and when I am done, I will submit to whatever punishment the government orders: unto Caeser, my head. But first, he has to be stopped.

I won’t tell you where I’m staying. You have been a good brother to me, but you are also a good man, and a good man may report me to the Marshals. But I believe I’ve found where they’re hiding, and I just need time to flush them out. I can stay out here all winter. Macy taught me enough about trapping and hunting to keep me fed, and I have firewood and coats and enough shelter to survive for a few months. I assumed that she’d run, twenty years ago. I lack the strength of the man who shot her, but I’ve been ready for this for a long time.

That said, the less time I have to spend hunting and chopping firewood, the more time I have to search and keep watch. I’ve sent this letter with my associate, a former slave-hunter who’s been providing his professional experience. If you wish to help, send him back with whatever supplies you’re able to provide. If not, and you choose to hand him over to the Marshals, please at least inform Henshaw that I am alive and well. Let that bring what little comfort it can.

Marshal 24,

I consent in writing to introducing Marshal Assistant Dean Harrington as a trustworthy friend of mine to Benton Bitters, also known as Brian Williams. He will ingratiate himself with Bitters and accompany him when he rejoins my brother Lamentations with supplies, allowing you to track his whereabouts to assist in tracking the remaining three fugutives connected to Case MO70. In return, your representative will protect my brother from the elements, himself, and his quarry, and you will petition for lenient sentencing if he is found guilty of any crimes relating to case MO70.