The Riverboat Gamble

The folks all gathered by the river

To watch the Liberty Belle arrive

Several blasts from its noisy horn

And the waterfowl came alive

3Gun watched from the railway platform

His mood was of one concerned

Talulah had timed her voyage well

New Year and she had returned

In addition to the rail this could help the town

Moving goods and people up and down the line

But that was not her primary goal

Fleecing gullible suckers was her real design

There'd have to be a formal welcome

Delivered by the Mayor

With all the usual ballyhoo

About how this has been an answered prayer

Then courtesy tours for the dignitaries

Aboard Talulah's boat

Meeting all the crew and staff

While she hung back to gloat

3Gun saw Evelyn and tipped his hat hello

But the dancing girls

With their high leg kicks

Were meant to steal the show

Lines were formed ahead of time

Anxious miners with their gold

And 3Gun knew there'd be trouble ahead

Before the ending to this tale was told

He noticed the tall man by the railing

Something familiar, suave, well dressed

More than just another traveller

A presence yet to be assessed

Music blared across the market place

The floating circus going strong

Talulah grinning ear to ear

Knowing she'd be richer before too long