Tryst of Fate
by G. M. Zagurski (1997)
Genres: Western
Fantasy

Your last trip up the stairs before you can relax in a nice hot bath brings you into rather unfortunate contact with a toy car left carelessly on a stair, and your head connects with the wooden banner near the top. As you come to, things don't quite seem so humdrum as they used to be...

action: %
response: This must be your 30th time up the stairs today, but fortunately, this is your final trip. All the laundry and cleaning are done, the carpets shampooed and the beds made. All that's left to do is to put away the last load of laundry, make a cocktail, and unwind in a hot bath while the carpets dry.

However, as you attempt the last of fourteen steps, your foot finds a small toy car inconveniently located as to cause your feet to go west while your head goes east. East, a direction typically no worse than any other direction, unfortunately at this time offers the corner of a banister. Your head's progression is significantly hampered by this obstruction, and as the resulting 'THUMP' resonates throughout the house, your head decides it isn't worth staying awake to investigate further.

You awake somewhat later to find your head no worse for wear but a little foggy, a little confused, and more than a little out of touch....



Standard interpreter 1.0

You are lying on the floor staring at the ceiling. Your head feels surprisingly good considering your previous antics. In fact, you feel quite refreshed from your hiatus from consciousness.
action: About yourself
response: As good-looking as ever.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a gold watch (being worn)
action: You look at the watch
response: (the gold watch)
The dainty wristwatch is made from 18kt gold and shines like the sun.
action: You stand
response: Just as you start to move, a grizzly little man about four feet tall wearing a red scarf and a black cowboy hat comes in from the bedroom to the north. After a quick glance, the little man bends over and extracts your gold watch from your wrist in one swift movement. As the man examines the watch, a raspy voice yells out, "Frank, get yer carcass outta here and down below where ya belong. Dadgummit anyhow!" The startled little man looks around and runs to the north with spurs clattering. Something drops from his pocket during his hasty exit.
action: Look around
response: You are lying on the floor staring at the ceiling. Your head feels surprisingly good considering your previous antics. In fact, you feel quite refreshed from your hiatus from consciousness.
action: You get up
response: You clamber to your feet.

The upstairs hallway is really nothing more than an annex between several other rooms of the house. There are exits leading north, northeast, east and south. A stairway leads down to the west.

You can see a blue gumball and a little toy car here.
action: You take all
response: blue gumball: As you reach for the gumball, a little gnomish man in a cowboy hat comes in from your bedroom and picks up the gum, examines it and says:

"Well looky here, I thought I heard a commotion up here. Ol' Frank Biscuit thought he was goin' to pull off a fast one I reckon, stealin' my special gum and all. What that hick won't do to raise hell! One of these days, Beetlebaum and I are goin' to have to do sumpin 'bout him. Please excuse me, ma'am."

The little gnome tips his hat and heads off to your bedroom.
little toy car: Taken.
action: You look at car
response: The toy car is a little red Corvette with a crushed front end.
action: You go north
response: While considerably better than your children's rooms, your room is also a little bit on the messy side. There is a king-size bed here with mountains of assorted pillows. A masterfully finished dresser graces the south wall. To the south is the hallway and a bathroom is off to the west.

You can see a little gnome here.
action: You look at the gnome
response: The little man stands about three feet high, has a dark brown beard and steely blue eyes with a mischievous gleam to them. He is wearing a tattered tan cowboy hat and a pair of cowboy boots that look several sizes too large. He also sports a decorative brown belt with a huge brass belt buckle engraved with the word "GEORGE." In one hand, the little man is carrying a brown bag.

The little gnome stares at you as if he were sizing you up.
action: You ask the gnome about the gum
response: The gnome chortles, "Oh, just it's just sumpin I whipped up at home. Oops, speakin' of home, I got supper cookin'. Gotta go, ma'am!" And with that, the little gnome tips his hat and heads west to the bathroom.
action: You look under the bed
response: Nothing here but dust and dirty magazines.
action: You get the magazines
response: That would only serve to further confuse your already bewildered husband.
action: You get the pillows
response: That's hardly portable.
action: You look at the dresser
response: The dresser is made out of maple carefully finished with Danish oil. Further study makes you marvel at what an accomplished craftsman your husband is. One drawer draws your attention away from this stunning 20th century achievement.
action: You open the drawer
response: You open the drawer, revealing a pair of garden gloves.
action: You examine the gloves
response: These are your garden variety garden gloves with little raised dimples for extra grip.
action: You get the gloves
response: Taken.
action: You examine bed
response: The king size bed is covered with a flowery comforter and assorted pillows.
action: Look around
response: While considerably better than your children's rooms, your room is also a little bit on the messy side. There is a king-size bed here with mountains of assorted pillows. A masterfully finished dresser graces the south wall. To the south is the hallway and a bathroom is off to the west.
action: You go west
response: Beautiful plants hang down from the ceiling and ceramic cherubims watch your every move in this small area off of the master bedroom to the east. To the south is a spacious walk-in closet with mirrored doors.

The closet door is closed.

You can also see a little gnome here.
action: Attack gnome
response: The gnome laughs at your halfhearted attempt and says "Now that ain't neighborly at all! I'm a-ginnin' to think you got a mean streak like ol' Frank."
action: You ask the gnome about Frank
response: "Don't go messin' with Frank. He's got such a mean streak that he makes the devil nervous."
action: You examine the gnome
response: The little man stands about three feet high, has a dark brown beard and steely blue eyes with a mischievous gleam to them. He is wearing a tattered tan cowboy hat and a pair of cowboy boots that look several sizes too large. He also sports a decorative brown belt with a huge brass belt buckle engraved with the word "GEORGE." In one hand, the little man is carrying a brown bag.
action: You ask gnome about the bag
response: "Just sumpin I's been haulin around."
action: You take the bag
response: "Well ma'am, sorry to trouble y'all with ol' Frank there, but he shouldn't be botherin' you no more. Why don't y'all take this here bag for yer trouble. I best be gettin' back. So long!"

And with that the little gnome sets down the bag, opens the closet door, enters the closet, and then closes the door. You hear George mumble a few words from behind the door and then the muffled sound of machinery. Then all is silent.
Taken.
action: You look at the bag
response: This garish bag looks like something from another century. The heavily cracked leather is inset with faded brown cloth strips lined with dull brass buttons. Down the top of the bag is a long rusted zipper.
action: You open the bag
response: The zipper is too rusted to move.
action: You wear the gloves
response: You put on the pair of garden gloves.
action: You pull the zipper
response: Nothing obvious happens.
action: You look around
response: Beautiful plants hang down from the ceiling and ceramic cherubims watch your every move in this small area off of the master bedroom to the east. To the south is a spacious walk-in closet with mirrored doors.

The closet door is closed.
action: You look at the closet door
response: These are tall mirrored doors leading into (and hopefully out of) your walk-in closet.
action: You look in the mirror
response: A bedraggled yet inquisitive face looks back at you.
action: Go east
response: While considerably better than your children's rooms, your room is also a little bit on the messy side. There is a king-size bed here with mountains of assorted pillows. A masterfully finished dresser graces the south wall. To the south is the hallway and a bathroom is off to the west.
action: Go south
response: The upstairs hallway is really nothing more than an annex between several other rooms of the house. There are exits leading north, northeast, east and south. A stairway leads down to the west.
action: Go northeast
response: Although you just finished cleaning this room an hour ago, it now looks like it hasn't been cleaned in about three weeks. The bed looks like it has been jumped on by an entire preschool. Dirty clothes are thoughtfully sprinkled across the floor, interspersed with assorted toys and food items. You can exit this mess to the south.

Somehow, someone has lost their gum and thoroughly ground it into the carpet.

You can also see a bench here.
action: You examine the bench
response: The sturdy green bench stands about a foot tall.
action: You get the clothes
response: Moving around some of the clothes reveals a moldy candy bar.
action: You get the candy
response: Taken.
action: You examine it
response: The half-eaten candy bar has clusters of green mold and splotches of white fur.
action: You examine the gum
response: The ground-in gum looks freshly chewed and is quite gooey.
action: You get the gum
response: The gum is gooey and bound to the carpet like glue.
action: You examine the toys
response: This is your garden variety of toys, most of which involved a number of small pieces lost long ago.
action: Look around
response: Although you just finished cleaning this room an hour ago, it now looks like it hasn't been cleaned in about three weeks. The bed looks like it has been jumped on by an entire preschool. Dirty clothes are thoughtfully sprinkled across the floor, interspersed with assorted toys and food items. You can exit this mess to the south.

Somehow, someone has lost their gum and thoroughly ground it into the carpet.

You can also see a bench here.
action: You look under the bed
response: Not a good idea. It will be a mess and you don't want to clean it.
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying:
a bench
a moldy candy bar
a beat-up old bag (which is closed)
a pair of garden gloves (being worn)
a little toy car
action: Search clothes
response: Moving around some of the clothes reveals a silver whistle.
action: Continue
response: Under a rather large pile of clothes, you uncover a somewhat sleepy-looking black cat.
action: Pet cat
response: You stroke the cat's silky black coat and scratch behind his ears. The cat purrs loudly.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You get the cat
response: The free-spirited cat resists your attempt to hold him.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You eat the bar
response: You quickly chow down the moldy candy bar. Yuk!

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: Blow whistle
response: The whistle produces a deafening shrill note!

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You give the bar to the cat
response: The black cat doesn't seem to be all that interested.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: Search clothes
response: Moving the clothes around reveals nothing new.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You search the cat
response: You find nothing of interest.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You examine the whistle
response: The toy silver whistle has been lost for a week.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You examine the toys
response: This is your garden variety of toys, most of which involved a number of small pieces lost long ago.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You scrape the gum
response: I don't believe you have a suitable scraper.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: Look around
response: Although you just finished cleaning this room an hour ago, it now looks like it hasn't been cleaned in about three weeks. The bed looks like it has been jumped on by an entire preschool. Dirty clothes are thoughtfully sprinkled across the floor, interspersed with assorted toys and food items. You can exit this mess to the south.

Somehow, someone has lost their gum and thoroughly ground it into the carpet.

You can also see a black cat here.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Your ears start to ring.
action: You go to the south
response: The upstairs hallway is really nothing more than an annex between several other rooms of the house. There are exits leading north, northeast, east and south. A stairway leads down to the west.

The black cat runs into the room and rubs up against your legs.
action: Go east
response: No surprises here. Towels everywhere, water on the floor, even a couple of toys to boot. The hallway is just a couple of steps to the west.

There is a pinkish shower curtain here.

The black cat runs into the room and rubs up against your legs.

The ringing in your ears is very annoying.
action: You look at the curtain
response: Penny's, $7.99, and that's not even on sale!

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You examine the towels
response: These are the towels with little hoods that the kids use after every bath.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You listen
response: You hear nothing unexpected.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You examine the toys
response: Typical bathroom toys, but of use only to your children.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You get the towels
response: Why bother? The kids will only mess them up another day. Besides, they look comfortable where they are.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You get toys
response: Leave the poor toys for the kids to play with.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

It's difficult to think with your ears ringing.
action: You listen
response: You hear nothing unexpected.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

The ringing is starting to give you a headache.
action: Go west
response: The upstairs hallway is really nothing more than an annex between several other rooms of the house. There are exits leading north, northeast, east and south. A stairway leads down to the west.

The black cat runs into the room and rubs up against your legs.
action: Go south
response: You can't, since Kati's bedroom door is in the way.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You open the door
response: It seems to be locked.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You examine the door
response: This door is not unlike any other door in the house except for the little ledge on top.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You look at the ledge
response: The ledge extends about an inch from the wall above the door.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: Search ledge
response: Looks like your normal door ledge from where you're standing.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

The ringing in your ears finally subsides.
action: You feel the ledge
response: You feel nothing unexpected.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You drop the bench
response: Dropped.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You stand on bench
response: From your vantage point, you can make out a wire key on the ledge.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You get on the bench
response: But you're already on the bench.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You get the key
response: Taken.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You get off
response: You get off the bench.

The upstairs hallway is really nothing more than an annex between several other rooms of the house. There are exits leading north, northeast, east and south. A stairway leads down to the west.

You can see a bench and a black cat here.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You unlock the door with the key
response: You unlock Kati's bedroom door.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You open the door
response: You open Kati's bedroom door.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You go to the south
response: Kati has done a marvelous job at totally trashing this room since this morning. You swear there once was a bed in here but all you can see is a mountain of clothing in front of the closet. The hallway is to the north.

The black cat runs into the room and rubs up against your legs.
action: Search clothing
response: Under the clothing you find an ice pack.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: Keep going
response: There is nothing else under the clothing.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You wear the ice
response: You can't wear that!

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: Examine pack
response: The plastic blue container has a tattered white label.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You examine the label
response: "Bees-Knees Insta-Freeze
Shake and Apply."

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: Shake pack
response: The blue pack turns ice cold in an instant.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You put the pack on the cat
response: Putting things on the black cat would achieve nothing.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You put pack on yourself
response: Putting things on yourself would achieve nothing.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You look at the closet
response: This is your everyday kid's closet filled with toys from days gone past. In some ways, you might call it a toy graveyard. The closet is closed.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You open the closet
response: You open the closet, revealing a toy black safe.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You look at safe
response: It's a small black metal box about six inches high with a small combination lock on it. All in all, it's a pretty good replica of the type of safe frequently shown in gangster movies. Mark has played with this thing for hours since getting it from his uncle. The safe door is shut and apparently locked.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You get safe
response: Taken.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You open safe
response: Concentrate as you may, but you can't come up with the combination.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You ask cat about safe
response: The cat gives you a puzzled look.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You go to the west
response: The carpets haven't finished drying yet!

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a toy black safe
a blue ice pack
a bench
a wire key
a silver whistle
a moldy candy bar
a beat-up old bag (which is closed)
a pair of garden gloves (being worn)
a little toy car

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You go to the north-east
response: Although you just finished cleaning this room an hour ago, it now looks like it hasn't been cleaned in about three weeks. The bed looks like it has been jumped on by an entire preschool. Dirty clothes are thoughtfully sprinkled across the floor, interspersed with assorted toys and food items. You can exit this mess to the south.

Somehow, someone has lost their gum and thoroughly ground it into the carpet.

The black cat runs into the room and rubs up against your legs.
action: You put the ice pack on the gum
response: You momentarily place the cold ice pack on the gum. The ground-in gum is now cold and quite firm.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You get the gum
response: The cold gum is easily removed from the carpet.
Taken.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Your husband strolls into the room looking for his beer. Not seeing it around, he departs grumbling something under his voice.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a wad of gooey gum
a toy black safe
a blue ice pack
a bench
a wire key
a silver whistle
a moldy candy bar
a beat-up old bag (which is closed)
a pair of garden gloves (being worn)
a little toy car

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Mark and Kati run screaming into the room and back out.
action: Go southwest
response: The only way out of here is to the south.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Kati comes into the room, looks around, and departs without a sound.
action: You go to the south
response: The upstairs hallway is really nothing more than an annex between several other rooms of the house. There are exits leading north, northeast, east and south. A stairway leads down to the west.

The black cat runs into the room and rubs up against your legs.

Your husband strolls into the room looking for his beer. Not seeing it around, he departs grumbling something under his voice.
action: You go to the west
response: The carpets haven't finished drying yet!

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You go east
response: No surprises here. Towels everywhere, water on the floor, even a couple of toys to boot. The hallway is just a couple of steps to the west.

There is a pinkish shower curtain here.

The black cat runs into the room and rubs up against your legs.

Kati comes into the room, looks around, and departs without a sound.
action: You pull the curtain
response: It is fixed in place.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Mark and Kati run into the room, see you, and run away giggling.
action: You open the curtain
response: You open the shower curtain.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You look in the shower
response: In the shower is a bar of soap.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Mark comes in and searches the room for Kati. Not finding her, he departs stomping his feet.
action: You get the soap
response: The soap has no chance against you and your gloves, and quietly surrenders. Taken.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Mark and Kati run screaming into the room and back out.
action: You put the soap on the zipper
response: The soap soaks into the zipper like oil, dissolving some of the rust. The zipper is probably serviceable now.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Kati comes into the room, looks around, and departs without a sound.
action: You open the bag
response: You open the beat-up old bag, revealing an ornate box.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You look at the box
response: The small ornate box is made of dark wood inlaid with silver swirls and circles.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You open box
response: It seems to be locked.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Mark runs into the room fussing about something, and then leaves in disgust when he receives no consolation.
action: You unlock the box with the key
response: You can't see any such thing.

That doesn't seem to fit the lock.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Mark and Kati run into the room, see you, and run away giggling.
action: You examine the towels
response: These are the towels with little hoods that the kids use after every bath.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Kati follows Mark into the room and chases him back out.
action: You get the towels
response: Why bother? The kids will only mess them up another day. Besides, they look comfortable where they are.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Kati follows Mark into the room and chases him back out.
action: You look at what you're carrying with you
response: You are carrying:
an ornate box (which is closed and locked)
a bar of soap
a wad of gooey gum
a toy black safe
a blue ice pack
a bench
a wire key
a silver whistle
a moldy candy bar
a beat-up old bag (which is open but empty)
a pair of garden gloves (being worn)
a little toy car

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You examine the toys
response: Typical bathroom toys, but of use only to your children.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Kati comes into the room, looks around, and departs without a sound.
action: Shake box
response: Results of such an activity are not as productive as you might have hoped.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Mark and Kati run into the room, see you, and run away giggling.
action: Unlock box
response: What do you want to unlock the ornate box with?
action: You unlock the box with the key
response: That doesn't seem to fit the lock.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Mark and Kati run into the room, see you, and run away giggling.
action: Go north
response: While considerably better than your children's rooms, your room is also a little bit on the messy side. There is a king-size bed here with mountains of assorted pillows. A masterfully finished dresser graces the south wall. To the south is the hallway and a bathroom is off to the west.

The black cat runs into the room and rubs up against your legs.

Mark and Kati run into the room, see you, and run away giggling.
action: Go west
response: Beautiful plants hang down from the ceiling and ceramic cherubims watch your every move in this small area off of the master bedroom to the east. To the south is a spacious walk-in closet with mirrored doors.

The closet door is closed.

The black cat runs into the room and rubs up against your legs.

Mark and Kati run screaming into the room and back out.
action: You open the closet
response: For some reason, the closet door won't budge.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Your husband strolls into the room looking for his beer. Not seeing it around, he departs grumbling something under his voice.
action: You look at the closet door
response: These are tall mirrored doors leading into (and hopefully out of) your walk-in closet.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Mark and Kati run into the room, see you, and run away giggling.
action: You break the door
response: Violence isn't the answer to this one.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: You look around
response: Beautiful plants hang down from the ceiling and ceramic cherubims watch your every move in this small area off of the master bedroom to the east. To the south is a spacious walk-in closet with mirrored doors.

The closet door is closed.

You can also see a black cat here.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Your husband strolls into the room looking for his beer. Not seeing it around, he departs grumbling something under his voice.
action: Blow whistle
response: The whistle produces a deafening shrill note!

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Mark and Kati run screaming into the room and back out.

Your ears start to ring.
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying:
an ornate box (which is closed and locked)
a bar of soap
a wad of gooey gum
a toy black safe
a blue ice pack
a bench
a wire key
a silver whistle
a moldy candy bar
a beat-up old bag (which is open but empty)
a pair of garden gloves (being worn)
a little toy car

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Kati comes into the room, looks around, and departs without a sound.
action: You examine the gum
response: There appear to be blue flakes in the well-chewed gum.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.

Mark and Kati run screaming into the room and back out.
action: You examine wire
response: Magnificent in its opulence, astounding in it's austerity - its a bent piece of wire with a loop in it.

The black cat sits by your feet and purrs.
action: Chew gum
response: The gum tastes somewhat sagey and sweet in the brief instant before it disintegrates in your mouth. The colors of the room start to blur as your knees begin to weaken, and your surroundings change.

You are inside a windowless room constructed of rough-cut timber. There isn't all that much room to move around since the place is cluttered with cauldrons, books, a large dusty table, pencil sketches, and assorted equipment. Large holes and splits in the ceiling provide more than enough light to make out that this is some type of crude laboratory. The only apparent exit is a door to the west.

On the table is a piece of paper.
action: You look at the paper
response: The paper is face down on the table, but through the stains you can just make out there is a picture and some writing on the other side.
action: You get it
response: Everything here feels mushy and insubstantial.
action: You read the paper
response: The paper is face down on the table, but through the stains you can just make out there is a picture and some writing on the other side.

The dust in here really irritates your nose.
action: You sneeze
response: You are right on the verge of sneezing. Maybe a bit more dust in the air might help.
action: Blow paper
response: The paper flutters ever so slightly, but doesn't move.

The dust in here really irritates your nose.
action: You look around
response: You are inside a windowless room constructed of rough-cut timber. There isn't all that much room to move around since the place is cluttered with cauldrons, books, a large dusty table, pencil sketches, and assorted equipment. Large holes and splits in the ceiling provide more than enough light to make out that this is some type of crude laboratory. The only apparent exit is a door to the west.

On the table is a piece of paper.
action: Examine books
response: Most of the books are stacked neatly in one corner of the room. The titles are for the most part obliterated leaving no clue to their contents. One dusty book on the floor, however, is open.

The dust in here really irritates your nose.
action: Examine book
response: The book is open to some dissertation about the partial transformation effects of previously chewed gumballs. The text is too complex for your meager intelligence.
action: You examine the sketches
response: There are several pencil sketches scattered throughout the room. Most follow a general western genre (stagecoaches, wagons, horses, cattle, etc.). One sketch depicts a crude wooden drilling rig with the description "Tom's Chuck." Another sketch, lying face down on the table, has numerous water and coffee stains.
action: Blow paper
response: The paper flutters ever so slightly, but doesn't move.

The dust in here really irritates your nose.
action: Blow dust
response: You manage to kick up a good-sized cloud of dust, with a good portion of it going up your nose. After a brief instant, your body reacts with a tremendous sneeze which shoots the stained paper halfway across the room.

The dust in here really irritates your nose.
action: Dehlila
response: The air seems to fill with electricity, and the door to the west shudders momentarily.
action: You open the door
response: The door latch feels mushy and insubstantial.
action: You go to the west
response: The door to the west is closed.
The door suddenly opens from a huge blast of wind. A dust cloud swirls around the whole room blocking all visibility. Soon you are on your knees and choking on the thick grit. The howling of the wind is deafening.

And then, all is calm.

The upstairs hallway is really nothing more than an annex between several other rooms of the house. There are exits leading north, northeast, east and south. A stairway leads down to the west.

You can see a little toy car, a pair of garden gloves, a beat-up old bag (which is empty), a moldy candy bar, a silver whistle, a wire key, a bench, a blue ice pack, a toy black safe, a bar of soap and an ornate box (which is closed) here.
action: You take all
response: little toy car: Taken.
pair of garden gloves: Taken.
beat-up old bag: Taken.
moldy candy bar: Taken.
silver whistle: Taken.
wire key: Taken.
bench: Taken.
blue ice pack: Taken.
toy black safe: Taken.
bar of soap: The slimy soap shoots out of your hand, does a lazy figure 8, and quickly spins to a stop.
ornate box: Taken.
action: You wear the gloves
response: You put on the pair of garden gloves.
action: You get the soap
response: The soap has no chance against you and your gloves, and quietly surrenders. Taken.
action: You look around
response: The upstairs hallway is really nothing more than an annex between several other rooms of the house. There are exits leading north, northeast, east and south. A stairway leads down to the west.
action: You go to the north
response: While considerably better than your children's rooms, your room is also a little bit on the messy side. There is a king-size bed here with mountains of assorted pillows. A masterfully finished dresser graces the south wall. To the south is the hallway and a bathroom is off to the west.
action: You say dehlila
response: The air seems to fill with electricity, and the mirrored doors shudder momentarily.
action: You open the door
response: You open the door to the closet.
action: Go south
response: Well as far as closets go, this one is filled floor to ceiling with various clothing articles, shoes, and sundry. You can leave this Mecca for moths to the north.

The closet door is open.
action: You look at the closet
response: These are tall mirrored doors leading into (and hopefully out of) your walk-in closet.
action: You close the door
response: You close the door to the closet.
action: Look around
response: Well as far as closets go, this one is filled floor to ceiling with various clothing articles, shoes, and sundry. You can leave this Mecca for moths to the north.

The closet door is closed.
action: You move the clothes
response: You are unable to.
action: Xyzzy
response: Images of knife-throwing dwarves come to mind.
action: You get all
response: door to the closet: That's fixed in place.
action: You open the door
response: You open the door to the closet.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a bar of soap
an ornate box (which is closed and locked)
a toy black safe
a blue ice pack
a bench
a wire key
a silver whistle
a moldy candy bar
a beat-up old bag (which is open but empty)
a pair of garden gloves (being worn)
a little toy car
action: Go north
response: Beautiful plants hang down from the ceiling and ceramic cherubims watch your every move in this small area off of the master bedroom to the east. To the south is a spacious walk-in closet with mirrored doors.

The closet door is open.
action: You go northeast
response: Although you just finished cleaning this room an hour ago, it now looks like it hasn't been cleaned in about three weeks. The bed looks like it has been jumped on by an entire preschool. Dirty clothes are thoughtfully sprinkled across the floor, interspersed with assorted toys and food items. You can exit this mess to the south.

You can see Mark here.
action: You look at Mark
response: Mark (your son, remember?) is a little boy quickly approaching the lofty age of six years. He is sitting Indian style on the ground playing with a tired green Lincoln Log stick and a yellow Tinker Toy, telling himself an elaborate story that apparently involves lots of explosions. He appears quite involved in his activity and does not seem the least interested in your presence.
action: Examine Toy
response: Which do you mean, the toy black safe, the silver whistle or the little toy car?
action: You give the car to Mark
response: Mark calmly takes the car from you and studies it intently. After a few moments, he gets up and retrieves his "Mr. AutoBody" set and proceeds to repair the damaged toy. Within minutes, the toy is as good as new and is quickly lost among the myriad other toys in the room.
action: You ask Mark about the safe
response: "Give it here! It's MINE!"
action: You give safe to Mark
response: Mark takes the safe and quickly opens it, revealing a piece of candy and a small wooden key. Mark picks up the safe and candy, and runs downstairs to show his treasures to his sister Kati.
action: You get the key
response: (the wooden key)
Taken.
action: You check what you're carrying
response: You are carrying:
a wooden key
a bar of soap
an ornate box (which is closed and locked)
a blue ice pack
a bench
a wire key
a silver whistle
a moldy candy bar
a beat-up old bag (which is open but empty)
a pair of garden gloves (being worn)

Your ears start to ring.
action: Unlock box with wooden key
response: You unlock the ornate box.
action: You open the box
response: You open the ornate box.

You can hear a tinny minuet coming from the box.
action: You look at the box
response: The small ornate box is made of dark wood inlaid with silver swirls and circles.

The ringing in your ears is very annoying.

You can hear a tinny minuet coming from the box.
action: You look in the box
response: The ornate box is empty.

You can hear a tinny minuet coming from the box.
action: You listen to the box
response: The tinny minuet coming from the box is quite pleasant.
action: You describe your surroundings
response: Although you just finished cleaning this room an hour ago, it now looks like it hasn't been cleaned in about three weeks. The bed looks like it has been jumped on by an entire preschool. Dirty clothes are thoughtfully sprinkled across the floor, interspersed with assorted toys and food items. You can exit this mess to the south.
action: Go south
response: The upstairs hallway is really nothing more than an annex between several other rooms of the house. There are exits leading north, northeast, east and south. A stairway leads down to the west.
action: You go south
response: Kati has done a marvelous job at totally trashing this room since this morning. You swear there once was a bed in here but all you can see is a mountain of clothing in front of the closet. The hallway is to the north.
action: You look at the closet
response: This is your everyday kid's closet filled with toys from days gone past. In some ways, you might call it a toy graveyard. The closet is open.

It's difficult to think with your ears ringing.
action: You look in the closet
response: The closet is empty.

The ringing is starting to give you a headache.
action: You search the closet
response: The closet is empty.

The ringing in your ears finally subsides.
action: You look at box
response: The small ornate box is made of dark wood inlaid with silver swirls and circles.
action: You open the box
response: That's already open.
action: You close the door
response: You close the door to the closet.
action: Close box
response: You close the ornate box.
action: You open the box
response: You momentarily hear the rumbling of machinery as the outline of a small trap door appears in the carpeting.

You can hear a tinny minuet coming from the box.
action: You examine the trap door
response: The trap door is made out of weathered wood and is covered in floor carpet.

You can hear a tinny minuet coming from the box.
action: You open the trap door
response: You open the secret trap door.

You can hear a tinny minuet coming from the box.
action: Go downwards
response: This creepy cellar looks like it predates your house by about a hundred years or so. Cold stone walls provide a framework for countless spiderwebs along with dried insects and other debris. No doors or other exits are evident except for the weathered ladder leading to the trap door in the ceiling, which is the sole source of light for this room. The dust-covered floor reveals a fresh set of small boot prints. Oddly, the trail of boot prints stops dead center in the middle of the room.

You can see a green gumball here.
action: You examine the gumball
response: The green gumball looks more like a marble than a confection.
action: Close box
response: You close the ornate box.
action: You eat it
response: The gumball has an odd but not unpleasant taste of sage. The colors of the room start to blur and a buzzing sound resonates from the back of your head. Just as your knees begin to weaken, a warm breeze starts from the west. A searing bright light from above washes out all other colors in the room. You quickly begin to have misgivings about this whole thing as the smell of wildflowers wafts through the air. Mere misgivings give way to total apprehension as your focus starts to return...

You are in a flat grassy area surrounded by scrub pines and large granite boulders. Purple and yellow wildflowers flourish in this area and the attendant bees are laden full with pollen and nectar. A lightly traveled path winds west through the rocks.
action: Smell wildflowers
response: The combined fragrance is subtle but yet almost overwhelming.
action: You look at the boulders
response: The large granite boulders form a near-perfect ring around the clearing. A path runs west between two of the larger specimens.
action: You look at the flowers
response: The wildflowers form a nearly uniform carpet throughout the area. The colors are so brilliant in the bright sun, you have to squint your eyes to avoid seeing spots all day.
action: You look at the bees
response: The bees lazily drift from flower to flower.
action: You get the flowers
response: That's hardly portable.
action: You go to the west
response: A well-traveled path from the west branches south and continues east here under the refreshing shade of the bordering oaks. The sloping path leading south appears somewhat muddy but the footing does not appear to be too difficult.
action: You examine the oaks
response: The oaks must be as old as the hills and provide a good deal of shade over the entire area.
action: You go to the west
response: This northeast-southwest trail has all the appearances of being a main thoroughfare prior to becoming overrun with weeds and brush. A narrow footpath leads off to the east through the brush.
action: You go northeast
response: The trail winds its way from the southwest through a shadowy canyon formed in the cleft of two large hills. You cannot help but feel confined and vulnerable by the sheer walls of this gorge and limited visibility in front of you and behind. The trail continues to the north.
action: Go north
response: A set of well-worn railroad tracks crosses the north-south trail here. The wooden ties have all but disintegrated and the rails are thick with bright red rust. The weed ridden-tracks run east-west.
action: You go to the east
response: The tracks continue east-west here through thick scrub brush and an occasional patch of cactus. There is a short section of track running parallel to, and eventually joining, the main track to form a spur.

There is a huge clump of tumbleweeds on the track spur.
action: You examine the clump
response: The thorny mass of tumbleweeds is bigger than a small shed.
action: You get it
response: The tumbleweeds resist your attempt. Maybe a better tool would help out.
action: Go east
response: The railroad tracks once crossed a deep gorge here, but the trestled bridge has long past seen its last train. The gaping hole in the middle of the bridge along with the highly questionable structural stability of the trestles themselves make further progress east unthinkable.
action: You jump
response: You jump on the spot, fruitlessly.
action: You go north
response: The trail here turns to fine dust with only a trace of vegetation. The wind is howling from the west, blowing dust, sand, and tumbleweeds everywhere. A brief respite in the blowing debris allows you to see the trail continuing north and an overgrown path going up to the east.
action: You go east
response: You are standing atop a large knoll which apparently served as a cemetery at some point in time. Remains of a picket fence lie strewn about the hillside and most of the gravestones have disintegrated beyond recognition. One granite marker at the head of a grassless plot, however, remains intact.
action: You look at fence
response: Only shards of whitewash remain on the well-weathered remnants of this former fence.
action: You examine the gravestones
response: There is an inscription on the marker which reads:

"Remember Friends As You Pass By,
As You Are Now So Once Was I;
As I Am Now So You Shall Be,
So Prepare For Death And Follow Me."

You swear you can hear laughing, but then again, maybe it's the wind.
action: You dig grave
response: What do you want to dig the grave with?
action: Go east
response: The only way off the hill is down to the west.
action: Go west
response: The trail here turns to fine dust with only a trace of vegetation. The wind is howling from the west, blowing dust, sand, and tumbleweeds everywhere. A brief respite in the blowing debris allows you to see the trail continuing north and an overgrown path going up to the east.
action: You go to the north
response: You are at the outskirts of what you would guess is a small town. Tumbleweeds and debris litter the trail giving all appearances that this place is deserted. The majority of buildings and other structures are to the west while a large barn-like building is due north. There is a faded sign just off to the side of the trail.
action: You look at the sign
response: The bullet-riddled sign reads:

"Welcome To Deadeye Gulch
No Cussin, Gunnin, or Gamblin"
action: You go to the north
response: You are just outside a large barn-like structure that appears to be the local livery. The aging structure looks fairly sound except that the roof is starting to sag in areas. Just north is an oddly colored entrance to the building. The rest of Deadeye is to the southwest and there is a clearing to the south.
action: You look at the entrance
response: The door is fabricated from weathered planking and leather straps. There are several faded splotches of paint that stand in sharp contrast to the dull gray wood.
action: You open the door
response: It seems to be locked.
action: Go southwest
response: You are at the east end of Deadeye Gulch on a street which is thick with dried grass and weeds. The remains of hitching posts and water troughs line the crumbling wooden sidewalks. Most of the buildings here have collapsed from aging timbers and a few appear as if they were burned down to their foundations. A couple of structures, however, have withstood the elements. To the north, there is a bank judging from the declaration as to such in the windows. To the south, there is a saloon.
action: You go south
response: This old beer hall served its last cold one many summers past. The rosewood bar stretches from wall to wall and, surprisingly, the wall-length mirror in back of the bar is still intact. The brass foot rail at the base of the bar is worn flat on the top from the countless patrons whose hard-earned wages were quickly converted into good times and song. Swinging doors lead back to the street to the north.

You can see a table, a slot machine and a tray (which is empty) here.
action: You examine the machine
response: The free-standing slot machine bears a sign declaring:

"HAPPY DAYS - 10 TRIES FOR 1 BUCK-A-BIN."

The machine has a lever on the right-hand side, a coin slot on the top, and a large metal tray at the bottom. There are three tumblers on the front of the machine behind a scratched piece of glass. On the left-hand side of the machine are five small wheels. Above each of the wheels is a letter, which collectively spell out the word "AHEAD."
action: You look at the first wheel
response: The first wheel is set to 1.
action: You examine the second wheel
response: The second wheel is set to 2.
action: You look at the third wheel
response: The third wheel is set to 3.
action: You examine the fourth wheel
response: The fourth wheel is set to 4.
action: You examine the fifth wheel
response: The fifth wheel is set to 5.
action: You examine the tumblers
response: The tumblers show:
action: You examine wheels
response: The collection of wheels reads as follows:

The first wheel  (letter 'A') is set to 1.
The second wheel (letter 'H') is set to 2.
The third wheel  (letter 'E') is set to 3.
The fourth wheel (letter 'A') is set to 4.
The fifth wheel  (letter 'D') is set to 5.
action: You examine table
response: This round table is standing on three legs (versus its last leg). The surface is marred with nicks, scratches and even a little bit of writing.
action: You examine the writing
response: The writing is pretty much your ordinary bar graffiti with even an occasional heart and arrow. However, as you study the crude lettering you find some kind of note has evidently been scrawled into the surface. The letters are so dark with grime they are indistinguishable from the table surface.
action: Clean table
response: Perhaps if you had something to clean the table with.
action: You examine the mirror
response: The mirror is quite overwhelming in size. Time, however, has started to take its toll on the mirror as indicated by the wavy distortions in the reflection.
action: You look in the mirror
response: A bedraggled yet inquisitive face looks back at you.
action: You go to the north
response: You are at the east end of Deadeye Gulch on a street which is thick with dried grass and weeds. The remains of hitching posts and water troughs line the crumbling wooden sidewalks. Most of the buildings here have collapsed from aging timbers and a few appear as if they were burned down to their foundations. A couple of structures, however, have withstood the elements. To the north, there is a bank judging from the declaration as to such in the windows. To the south, there is a saloon.
action: You go north
response: Abandoned teller windows line the west wall of this former financial hub of the Deadeye community. Not unlike everything else in town, it too has fallen into disrepair. To the north you can make out an open vault and to the south lies Main Street.

There is a rusted pan lying over in the corner.
action: You examine the pan
response: The pan is about 16 inches in diameter and 3 inches deep. The walls of the pan slope gently inward to produce a 10-inch bottom base. The surface of the pan is entirely rusted.
action: Examine vault
response: The vault is built into the north wall. Strangely, the anticipated massive door is nowhere to be seen.
action: You go north
response: This red brick enclosure has been picked clean of its valuables, bringing to mind the adage "A Day Late, and a Dollar Short." A large wooden table dominates the center of the room supporting some type of mechanical contraption. The rest of the bank lies to the south.
action: You look at table
response: The wooden table is made from oak and supports some strange mechanical device.
action: You look at the device
response: The contraption has a metal block just an inch or so above a metal plate with a small circular impression. A series of gears connects the metal block to a lever.
action: You pull the lever
response: The lever pulls easily, moving the metal block down to the plate. As you release the lever, it returns to its starting position.
action: You examine the plate
response: The impression in the plate is about an eighth of an inch deep and an inch and a half in diameter.
action: Go south
response: Abandoned teller windows line the west wall of this former financial hub of the Deadeye community. Not unlike everything else in town, it too has fallen into disrepair. To the north you can make out an open vault and to the south lies Main Street.

There is a rusted pan lying over in the corner.
action: You get the pan
response: As you pick up the pan, a hole in one of the floorboards is revealed.

Taken.
action: You look in the hole
response: If you hold your head just right, you can just catch a glimpse of something shining in the hole.
action: You examine the windows
response: The teller windows are uniformly distributed along the west wall with no apparent way to get to the other side of the bars. Perhaps they are no more than window dressing.
action: You examine bars
response: The bars are thick and unremovable.
action: You go north
response: This red brick enclosure has been picked clean of its valuables, bringing to mind the adage "A Day Late, and a Dollar Short." A large wooden table dominates the center of the room supporting some type of mechanical contraption. The rest of the bank lies to the south.
action: You examine the contraption
response: The contraption has a metal block just an inch or so above a metal plate with a small circular impression. A series of gears connects the metal block to a lever.
action: You examine the pan
response: The pan is about 16 inches in diameter and 3 inches deep. The walls of the pan slope gently inward to produce a 10-inch bottom base. The surface of the pan is entirely rusted.
action: You put the pan on the plate
response: Putting the pan into the impression would be in violation of local banking law B-62134. Being the law conscious person you are, you retreat from this ill-advised action.
action: Go south
response: Abandoned teller windows line the west wall of this former financial hub of the Deadeye community. Not unlike everything else in town, it too has fallen into disrepair. To the north you can make out an open vault and to the south lies Main Street.

There is a hole in one of the floorboards.
action: You go to the south
response: You are at the east end of Deadeye Gulch on a street which is thick with dried grass and weeds. The remains of hitching posts and water troughs line the crumbling wooden sidewalks. Most of the buildings here have collapsed from aging timbers and a few appear as if they were burned down to their foundations. A couple of structures, however, have withstood the elements. To the north, there is a bank judging from the declaration as to such in the windows. To the south, there is a saloon.
action: You go to the west
response: Most of the buildings on this end of town have given up the ghost and are but piles of broken lumber, tarpaper and other debris. One structure, to the north, seems to have fared considerably better than its neighbor to the south. The street narrows to the west where it appears to pick up a trail leading out of town. Back to the east is the center of town.
action: You look at the jail door
response: The door to the jail is comprised of a series of vertical iron bars and a large iron lock.

One of the bars must have fallen off of the door and onto the floor of the jail.
action: You open the jail door
response: It seems to be locked.
action: Go north
response: The musty smell of rotting wood greets your arrival at this rather dark dry goods store. An empty wood and glass counter parallel to the east wall displays mere remnants of the grains, sugar, fruit, and candy once plentiful in each of the adjacent bins. The shelves behind the counter are now only a repository for dust and a framework for countless cobwebs. The wooden floorboards, once sanded and polished, are now buckled and decrepit. A pair of broken doors leads out to the south and an open screen door leads to the west.

One of the floorboards squeaks when you step on it.

On the shelves are a stack of gum base and a box (which is closed).

The torn cloth in the screen door flaps gently from a barely perceptible breeze.
action: You take all
response: loose floorboard: That's fixed in place.
action: You look at the shelf
response: These are just your average horizontal boards used for displaying store items.
action: You take the cloth
response: The staples are resistant to any attempts you make to strip the cloth from their grasp. Maybe you could tear it.

The torn cloth in the screen door flaps gently from a barely perceptible breeze.
action: Tear cloth
response: The material yields nothing for a moment, but then "R-I-I-P-P-P." A small piece tears off from the rest.
action: You examine the gum base
response: The stack consists of a number of squares labeled "Uncle Wrigley's Virgin Gum Base."
action: You look at the box
response: The box is adorned with a drawing of a cute redhead and the printing "Mon Cheri's Tea Sugar."
action: You take the box
response: Maybe you could take a free "sample" from the box, but taking the whole thing would probably be grounds for a lynching.
action: You open the box
response: You open the box, revealing a dozen or so sugar cubes.
action: You take the sugar cube
response: You take one of the cubes from the box.
action: Close box
response: You close the box.
action: You examine the floorboard
response: The floorboard is a couple of feet long and is missing its nails on one end.
action: You open it
response: Under the floorboard are a couple of matches.
action: You examine matches
response: (the match)
It's your everyday unlit kitchen match.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a match
a cube of sugar
a square of gum base
a piece of gauzy cloth
a pan
action: You take the matches
response: (the match)
Taken.
action: Keep going
response: You already have that.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
two matches
a cube of sugar
a square of gum base
a piece of gauzy cloth
a pan
action: Go west
response: This small fenced-in area was once a garden, probably for the private use of the store's proprietor. Weeds now blanket the dark soil where once beans, carrots, potatoes, and the like thrived in the hot summer. In one corner of the garden, however, a single corn stalk has made its way skyward supported by the fence. A screen door to the east leads back into the store.
action: You examine the stalk
response: The corn stalk is dried to a crisp from the lack of water and there isn't a single ear left. There are, however, a couple of kernels of corn tucked away in the leaves of the stalk.
action: You get the corn
response: (the couple kernels of corn)
Taken.
action: Dig
response: What do you want to dig up?
action: Go east
response: What do you want to dig up the east wall with?
action: Go east
response: The musty smell of rotting wood greets your arrival at this rather dark dry goods store. An empty wood and glass counter parallel to the east wall displays mere remnants of the grains, sugar, fruit, and candy once plentiful in each of the adjacent bins. The shelves behind the counter are now only a repository for dust and a framework for countless cobwebs. The wooden floorboards, once sanded and polished, are now buckled and decrepit. A pair of broken doors leads out to the south and an open screen door leads to the west.

One of the floorboards squeaks when you step on it.

On the shelves are a stack of gum base and a box (which is closed).
action: You go south
response: Most of the buildings on this end of town have given up the ghost and are but piles of broken lumber, tarpaper and other debris. One structure, to the north, seems to have fared considerably better than its neighbor to the south. The street narrows to the west where it appears to pick up a trail leading out of town. Back to the east is the center of town.
action: Go west
response: The east-west trail here is lined by scraggly sycamore trees that look more dead than alive. Even the few birds' nests tucked away in the upper branches look poorly constructed and uninhabitable.
action: You climb the tree
response: After selecting a promising candidate, you carefully scale the trunk. After a few moments you find yourself at...

The upper branches of this tree are almost totally bare of leaves. One branch within reach supports a deserted bird's nest which looks a whisper away from nonexistence. Further travel up the tree does not look promising since, basically, there is no more tree.
action: You look at the nest
response: The nest is constructed out of twigs, leaves and a few other unidentifiable materials. If you are careful, you may be able to look inside without falling out of the tree.
action: You get the note
response: Taken.
action: You examine the note
response: "Congratulations on the purchase of your new
HAPPY DAYS Slot Machine, the slot guaranteed
to raise income and please your clientele! Special
features of the HAPPY DAYS slot include:
- Large payoff tray
- Adjustable odds with convenient thumbwheels
- Ivory grip handle
- 10 plays for only 1 Buck-a-bin

Remember,

+HAPPY
+HAPPY
+ DAYS

AHEAD

A=7,8 or 9.
No two letters represent the same integer.

HerringVille Slot Machine Co."
action: You look in the nest
response: The nest is empty.
action: You climb down
response: The east-west trail here is lined by scraggly sycamore trees that look more dead than alive. Even the few birds' nests tucked away in the upper branches look poorly constructed and uninhabitable.
action: Go west
response: The trail continues east-west here, but two side trails duck away up to the northwest and down to the southwest somewhat forming a fork.

There is something shiny here half-buried in the dirt.
action: You take all
response: silver spoon: Taken.
action: You examine the spoon
response: This tarnished old spoon is adorned with decorative scrolls on the handle and, although slightly bent, appears quite useable.
action: You go west
response: The trail is straight as an arrow as it leads to the badlands to the west and towards Deadeye Gulch to the east. A barely legible sign shaped like an arrow points west.
action: You look at the sign
response: Warning: Badlands Ahead - Travel

Not Advised.
action: You go northwest
response: A rather tall hill sprouts out of the landscape here, casting a deep shadow to the east. A well-traveled path leads up the hill to the northeast and a grassy trail leads off to the southeast. There is a sign lying in the dirt.
action: You examine sign
response: The bullet-riddled sign reads:
"No Trespassing
Private Property"
action: You take the sign
response: The sign is of little use to anyone, particularly you.
action: You go to the northeast
response: The whole valley is revealed to you as you approach the summit. To the east, you see the largely decaying town of Deadeye Gulch, and just further, the small knoll known as Boot Hill. To the south, the dusty valley floor unfolds, divided by a small tree-lined creek. Large snowy mountains abut the hill to the north while endless badlands reach out seemingly forever to the west. The main trail continues around the hill to the west and down to the southwest, whereas a faint side trail heads towards the crest to the north.
action: You go to the south
response: You can proceed up the hill, down the hill, or over to the west.
action: Go north
response: As you proceed up the hill, your bones start to hurt and you feel like you're....

"I'm too old for this nonsense" is your first thought after a brief journey over the crest of the hill to this dirt outcropping on the north side. Momentarily ignoring your aching joints and brief memory lapses, you spot a trail heading south up the hill. Oddly, the trail shows signs of fresh footprints.

You can see a lantern here.
action: You look at the lantern
response: Hardly your brass variety, but a serviceable lamp with a glass chimney.
action: You go north
response: The path to the south looks like your only sure bet.
action: You go south
response: As you return back, the spring returns to your step and you again feel like your youthful self again.

The whole valley is revealed to you as you approach the summit. To the east, you see the largely decaying town of Deadeye Gulch, and just further, the small knoll known as Boot Hill. To the south, the dusty valley floor unfolds, divided by a small tree-lined creek. Large snowy mountains abut the hill to the north while endless badlands reach out seemingly forever to the west. The main trail continues around the hill to the west and down to the southwest, whereas a faint side trail heads towards the crest to the north.
action: You go west
response: Wisps of steam rise off of the charred timbers of what was once a fair-sized building. Small flames flare up occasionally producing a deep crackling sound. Paper-thin pieces of ash float hither and yon. An odd-shaped sign lies on the ground.

George is here staring at the charred remains of his gum factory.

There is a brass key hanging on George's belt.

You can also see a leather-bound book, a cauldron (in which is some metallic flakes) and a burned sketch here.
action: You examine sign
response: o
r
GumBall
e  e
e
t
l
e
b
Factory
u
m
action: You examine the sketch
response: This is a rather charred sketch of a woman opening a door.
action: You look at the book
response: The book is about the size of a small church hymn book. The leather cover is quite worn but still displays an array of wonderful artwork depicting scenes of cowboys, horses, and wide open vistas. The book is slightly singed in places, but more importantly, it appears as if most of the pages have been torn out.
action: You open the book
response: The one remaining page looks like a recipe:

"QuickDraw McGraw"
1 square gum base
1 sprig sage
1 cube sugar

Mix together with silver spoon in iron vessel with pinch of Tryst. Effects are temporary and may vary widely when used with alcohol.
action: You ask George about the factory
response: "'Tweren't that much all in all but it was home. Damn Biscuit Brothers just couldn't take not being able to rob any damn place they choose. I don't hold no grudge. But I ain't goin' to get all watery when they be swingin' from a tree."
action: You ask George about the gum
response: The gnome looks at you crossly and points at the remnants of his factory. "I don't mean to burden yuh with my problems, but as yuh might see, I ain't gonna be makin gum for a spell.""Can't ya see I got stuff on ma mind."
action: You ask George about the biscuit brothers
response: "Just dime store thieves. Shoot ya dead in a minute, ya hear! Keep yer distance from Frank. Since he found his way above, he ain't the same."
action: You ask George about Frank
response: "Don't go messin with Frank. He's got such a mean streak that he makes the devil nervous."
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying:
a lantern
a silver spoon
a crumpled note
action: You examine the cauldron
response: a cube of sugar
a square of gum base
a piece of gauzy cloth
a pan

The cauldron is made of cast iron and is small enough to be carried on those long journeys across the open plains.
action: You examine the flakes
response: The flakes remind you of the glitter you used as a child.
action: You take the key
response: "What the hell do ya think yer doin' missy! Keeps yer hands away from me!"
action: You take the sketch
response: Now wouldn't that be cold. She probably was George's sweety.
action: You ask George about the sketch
response: "Prettiest damn woman I ever set eyes on. Ran off into the hills a few years back. Don't really know what became of her. She could do stuff with the Tryst that I never saw done before. Hell, some folks made her to be a witch. She never hurt nobody."
action: Look around
response: Wisps of steam rise off of the charred timbers of what was once a fair-sized building. Small flames flare up occasionally producing a deep crackling sound. Paper-thin pieces of ash float hither and yon. An odd-shaped sign lies on the ground.

George is here staring at the charred remains of his gum factory.

There is a brass key hanging on George's belt.

You can also see a burned sketch here.
action: Go west
response: There is a path leading off to the east.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a leather-bound book
a cauldron
some metallic flakes
a lantern
a silver spoon
a crumpled note
a couple kernels of corn
two matches
a cube of sugar
a square of gum base
a piece of gauzy cloth
a pan
action: You look at the cloth
response: The white material is covered with water stains and feels like a well-starched shirt.
action: Go east
response: The east-west trail here is lined by scraggly sycamore trees that look more dead than alive. Even the few birds' nests tucked away in the upper branches look poorly constructed and uninhabitable.
action: You go east
response: Most of the buildings on this end of town have given up the ghost and are but piles of broken lumber, tarpaper and other debris. One structure, to the north, seems to have fared considerably better than its neighbor to the south. The street narrows to the west where it appears to pick up a trail leading out of town. Back to the east is the center of town.
action: You go west
response: The heat is stifling at this barren strip of track seemingly in the middle of nowhere. Even the ever present weeds have given up this area as hopeless and only a few cacti have managed to gain a foothold in the constantly shifting sand. One of the rails has become dislodged, forming a six-inch gap on one side of the tracks.
action: You look at the rail
response: One of the rails has moved about six inches laterally, introducing a significant discontinuity in the track system.
action: You examine the gap
response: One of the rails has become dislodged, forming a six-inch gap on one side of the tracks. A train would probably get derailed trying to pass through here.
action: Go west
response: The tracks gradually turn southwest here through a tight ravine cut into the sandy soil. Thick brush once again lines the tracks limiting passage only along the tracks themselves.

The tracks through the ravine are littered with rattlesnakes.
action: You examine the snakes
response: Dozens of rattlesnakes line the track. Most of them are coiled up and presumably sleeping; however, the few that are staring directly at you appear very daunting. It is with little disinterest that you note the crescendo of rattles in the area.
action: You go west
response: It is somewhat doubtful that you would survive the trek through the snakes.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a leather-bound book
a cauldron
some metallic flakes
a lantern
a silver spoon
a crumpled note
a couple kernels of corn
two matches
a cube of sugar
a square of gum base
a piece of gauzy cloth
a pan
action: Go east
response: The heat is stifling at this barren strip of track seemingly in the middle of nowhere. Even the ever present weeds have given up this area as hopeless and only a few cacti have managed to gain a foothold in the constantly shifting sand. One of the rails has become dislodged, forming a six-inch gap on one side of the tracks.
action: You go southwest
response: A briskly moving stream widens here and is shallow enough to cross without difficulty. Along one bank where the water slows to a crawl a deposit of black magnetite can be seen. The trail continues to the northeast and up a small ridge to the southwest.
action: You look at the magnetite
response: The black iron oxide particles are quite dense and tend to settle out with other heavy minerals and metals such as gold.
action: You shake the pan
response: Using your best gold panning technique, you swish the wet slurry around, discarding the lighter materials in the process. Your efforts are soon rewarded by the discovery of a large gold nugget in the bottom of the pan!
action: You look at nugget
response: The gold nugget is about the size of a marble and is probably worth a small fortune.
action: Go northeast
response: This northeast-southwest trail has all the appearances of being a main thoroughfare prior to becoming overrun with weeds and brush. A narrow footpath leads off to the east through the brush.
action: You go northeast
response: The trail winds its way from the southwest through a shadowy canyon formed in the cleft of two large hills. You cannot help but feel confined and vulnerable by the sheer walls of this gorge and limited visibility in front of you and behind. The trail continues to the north.
action: Go north
response: A set of well-worn railroad tracks crosses the north-south trail here. The wooden ties have all but disintegrated and the rails are thick with bright red rust. The weed ridden-tracks run east-west.
action: You go north
response: The trail here turns to fine dust with only a trace of vegetation. The wind is howling from the west, blowing dust, sand, and tumbleweeds everywhere. A brief respite in the blowing debris allows you to see the trail continuing north and an overgrown path going up to the east.
action: You go to the north
response: You are at the outskirts of what you would guess is a small town. Tumbleweeds and debris litter the trail giving all appearances that this place is deserted. The majority of buildings and other structures are to the west while a large barn-like building is due north. There is a faded sign just off to the side of the trail.
action: Green
response: "It's a beautiful day for the race.
Stooge Hand is the favorite today, Assault is in there.
Dog Biscuit is 3:1, Safety Pin has been scratched,
and at 20:1, Beetlebaum.

Now the horses are approaching the starting gate,
and there - There they go!

Johannes Stuchan is going to the front.
Cabbage is second on the rail.
Beautiful Linda is third by a length.
And Beetlebaum - around the first turn.

Stuchan is still in the front,
Cabbage is second by a head.
(Cabbage by a head!)
Beautiful Linda is third.
And Beetlebaum - into the back strech.

Dog Biscuit is now leading the pack.
Lady Appolonius is second, very close.
Banana is coming up through the bunch.
(Banana coming up through the bunch!)
And Beetlebaum - at the half.

Stuchan still out in the front.
Apartment House is second with plenty of room.
Assault is passing Battery.
(Assaulting Battery!)
Notary Sojack is fourth.
And in lastplace by 10 lengths,
I belive it is, yes it is, Beetlebaum.

Around the turn and heading for home.
It's Stuchan, Dog Biscuit and Girdle in the stretch.
Flying Silvester is third.
And Mother-in-Law nagging in the rear.
And now they come down to the wire.
And it's number one and now number two.
And it's very close.
It'll be a photo finish or an oil painting.
And now Louis leads for the left.
And Louis is an inertia sluggin'.
And it's battle and now they're tearing hair.
There's hair all over the ring,
There's hair all over the place.
I don't know whose hair it is - it's mine.
And there goes the winner! - Beetlebaum!"
action: You examine the contraption
response: The contraption has a metal block just an inch or so above a metal plate with a small circular impression. A series of gears connects the metal block to a lever.
action: You put the nugget in the plate
response: You put the gold nugget into the impression.
action: You pull the lever
response: The lever moves with hardly any effort at all, pressing the gold nugget into something resembling a coin.
action: You examine it
response: The gold coin is relatively primitive, yet has a monetary feel about it. There is a crudely engraved figure with a mask riding a horse on the face. Beneath the figure is the inscription "1 Buck-a-Bin."
action: You read the note
response: (the writing)
The writing is pretty much your ordinary bar graffiti with even an occasional heart and arrow. However, as you study the crude lettering you find some kind of note has evidently been scrawled into the surface.

The note says "Feed and Water Your Horses at ROYBOB Livery."
action: You look at the paint
response: Which do you mean, the orange paint, the yellow paint, the red paint or the blue paint?
action: Red
response: It's just your everyday faded red paint.
action: You touch red
response: The door creaks loudly.
action: You examine the blue
response: It's just your everyday faded blue paint.
action: You examine the yellow
response: It's just your everyday faded yellow paint.
action: You look at the orange
response: It's just your everyday faded orange paint.
action: You touch the orange
response: The door creaks loudly and then shudders.
action: You touch the blue
response: You hear a click somewhere inside the door.
action: You open the door
response: You open the livery door.
action: You go north
response: This dilapidated building has long fallen into disrepair. It is surprisingly bright in here as light filters through large gaping holes in the roof. Numerous stalls line the walls presumably for horses or other livestock. A wooden ladder provides access to a hayloft to the north while large sliding doors, long off their rails, provide an egress to the east. You can leave the building by heading south.
action: You examine the stalls
response: There are at least twenty stalls shrouded in shadows from the high timber enclosures. Most of the stalls are blocked with wood and debris, but one looks ready for the nearest horse.
action: You enter the stall
response: You get into the horse stall.

In the horse stall you can see a shovel.
action: Go outside
response: You get out of the horse stall.

This dilapidated building has long fallen into disrepair. It is surprisingly bright in here as light filters through large gaping holes in the roof. Numerous stalls line the walls presumably for horses or other livestock. A wooden ladder provides access to a hayloft to the north while large sliding doors, long off their rails, provide an egress to the east. You can leave the building by heading south.
action: You examine the shovel
response: The wooden handle has splintered several times and has been thoughtfully wrapped in old rags for support, and the hand-forged blade is quite thin from use. All in all, though, it looks like the old girl could still toss a few more shovelfuls.
action: You go to the east
response: All is not so 'O.K.' with this corral as most of the wooden fences have given away to the ravages of time and the elements. Tall range grass has overtaken the ground and the air is alive with the sounds of grasshoppers, crickets and the like.
action: You examine grass
response: The grass is about waist high and is so thick it could conceal about anything.
action: You search the grass
response: You find a rusting green square tin.
action: You get the tin
response: You're carrying too many things already.
action: You check what you're carrying
response: You are carrying:
a shovel
a coin
a green note
a leather-bound book
a cauldron
some metallic flakes
a lantern
a silver spoon
a crumpled note
a couple kernels of corn
two matches
a cube of sugar
a square of gum base
a piece of gauzy cloth
a pan

You are carrying:
a shovel
a coin
a green note
a leather-bound book
a cauldron
some metallic flakes
a lantern
a silver spoon
a crumpled note
a couple kernels of corn
two matches
a cube of sugar
a square of gum base
a piece of gauzy cloth
a pan
action: You put all in the cauldron
response: shovel: Done.
coin: Done.
green note: Done.
leather-bound book: Done.
lantern: Done.
silver spoon: Done.
crumpled note: Done.
couple kernels of corn: Done.
match: Done.
match: Done.
cube of sugar: Done.
square of gum base: Done.
piece of gauzy cloth: Done.
pan: Done.
action: You get the tin
response: Taken.
action: You examine the tin
response: The rusted square tin declares itself as "Scented Bag Balm" and includes these special directions:

"For minor congestion of the udder due to calving, high feeding, bruising or chilling. Using individual towels, thoroughly wash treated teats and udder before each milking to avoid contamination of milk. After each milking, bathe with plenty of hot water, strip milk out clean, dry skin and apply bag balm freely, massaging gently with this stiff ointment fifteen minutes twice daily or more often as needed. Special scented formula repels flies and other flying insects."
action: You open the tin
response: You open the tin, revealing two portions of balm.
action: Go up
response: The floorboards of the loft creak and sag with your weight but seem to be holding firm, at least for now. Only a few clumps of straw remain where there were once probably dozens of hay bales. The heat up here is nearly unbearable and perspiration begins to run down your face. The only way off of the loft is to impose yourself on the weathered ladder once again.

You can see a pitchfork here.
action: You examine it
response: It is a long-handled fork with four tines.
action: You go east
response: The entrance to the barn-like structure is to the west.
action: You put the coin in the slot
response: The coin drops into the slot.
action: You pull the lever
response: The tumblers spin for several seconds and then stop. The tumblers now show:

The machine produces a loud CLUNK and a bottle rolls out into the tray.
action: You look at it
response: It's a corked bottle of whiskey with an old faded label.
action: You read the label
response: "Daniel Jack's Redeye Special"
action: You take the whiskey
response: That seems to be a part of the quarter-full bottle of whiskey.
action: You examine the cork
response: It is a cylindrical thumb-sized object made from the elastic outer bark of the cork oak (Quercus suber).
action: You taste the whiskey
response: Your head starts to spin...

The ol' saloon is hoppin' tonight! Dance girls (ahem) swarm the dusty patrons, encouraging them to drink and gamble amongst other indiscretions. Above all the whoopin' 'n hollerin', you can just make out the tinny ragtime of an unseen brass-tack piano. The barkeep is shoveling out drinks to the bar at a furious pace while one of the other hired help polishes the wall-length mirror. Swinging doors lead back to the street to the north.

You can see a table here.
action: You look at the table
response: The four-legged table is exceptionally pristine considering the clientele around this place. The table top is flawlessly finished and sports nary a water mark.

John Bro calls for one of the dance hall girls and whispers something in her ear. The girl blushes and walks away giggling.
action: About you
response: As good-looking as ever.

When one of the patrons isn't looking, John Bro swaps his drink for an empty glass.
action: You examine john
response: The barkeep looks somewhat familiar. He has curly brown hair heavily seasoned with gray, a lightly bearded face, and  a slightly paunchy stomach. The local clientele seem to refer to him as "John Bro" or just "Bro" for short. Without exception, every time someone orders a drink, John Bro bellows out "Done Deal!" and then serves both the patron and himself a drink.

John Bro calls for one of the dance hall girls and whispers something in her ear. The girl blushes and walks away giggling.
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying nothing.

When one of the patrons isn't looking, John Bro swaps his drink for an empty glass.
action: You say done deal
response: Whom do you want to say that to?
action: You describe your surroundings
response: The ol' saloon is hoppin' tonight! Dance girls (ahem) swarm the dusty patrons, encouraging them to drink and gamble amongst other indiscretions. Above all the whoopin' 'n hollerin', you can just make out the tinny ragtime of an unseen brass-tack piano. The barkeep is shoveling out drinks to the bar at a furious pace while one of the other hired help polishes the wall-length mirror. Swinging doors lead back to the street to the north.

You can see a table here.

John Bro calls for one of the dance hall girls and whispers something in her ear. The girl blushes and walks away giggling.
action: You examine the mirror
response: The mirror is quite overwhelming in size. Its surface is nearly perfect and shows no signs of distortion.

When one of the patrons isn't looking, John Bro swaps his drink for an empty glass.
action: You examine the customers
response: The bar patrons are a mixture of cowpokes and businessmen.

The barkeep makes small talk with one of the patrons.
action: You ask John Bro about mirror
response: "Leave it alone. It's worth way more than yer hide!"

John Bro calls for one of the dance hall girls and whispers something in her ear. The girl blushes and walks away giggling.
action: You ask John Bro about the saloon
response: "I don't got no time for talkin'."

When one of the patrons isn't looking, John Bro swaps his drink for an empty glass.
action: You ask John Bro about the drinks
response: "I don't got no time for talkin'."

John Bro pulls out a small gun, checks it for bullets, and then places it back in his pocket.
action: You examine the gun
response: The single-shot pocket derringer has a beautiful ivory handle and appears to be loaded.
action: Go south
response: You can't go that way.

The barkeep makes small talk with one of the patrons.
action: You shoot john
response: The barkeep shakes his head and points to the shotgun behind the bar.

John Bro calls for one of the dance hall girls and whispers something in her ear. The girl blushes and walks away giggling.
action: You shoot the mirror
response: The barkeep shakes his head and points to the shotgun behind the bar.

When one of the patrons isn't looking, John Bro swaps his drink for an empty glass.
action: You look at the shotgun
response: The double-barreled shotgun hangs behind the bar for the sole use of the bartender.

The bartender pulls out a small flask and takes a swig when no one is looking.
action: Go north
response: A big burly man bursts through the swinging doors and yells, "What the hell ya think yer doin' missy sittin' at mah table? Hey barkeep, I should shoot yer ears off for lettin' this wench clutter up mah place here!"

The ol' saloon is quieter than a church. Patrons and dance girls line the walls to avoid being in the line of fire. The barkeep is huddled behind the bar occasionally peeking out to view the situation. The rest of the hired help is nowhere to be seen.

You can see Black Thad McGee and a table here.
action: You examine thad
response: This is the meanest looking bad guy you hope to ever set eyes on. Narrow beady eyes stare at you from a grizzly shaven face. Twin scars, one each cheek, accentuate a bent nose which veers slightly off to the left. His dusty black clothing is well worn and is bulging at the seams from the massive physique contained within.

Black Thad's oversized hands continually twitch just over the handles of his pearl-handled guns.
"Well missy, how 'bout you give me a big ol' kiss and I'll forget I ever laid eyes on yer miserable hide?"
action: You show the gun to Thad
response: "What I'm interested in ain't what yuh is holdin'." Black Thad says with an evil gleam in his eyes.

"Ya better get kissin' missy or I is goin' to up the stakes!"
action: You shoot thad
response: As you lift the gun to shoot, Thad draws both guns and shoots the pistol right from your hand, leaving your arm stinging up to your elbow. Your head starts to spin from the pain, and within the blink of an eye, your head hits the floor.
Saloon
This old beer hall served its last cold one many summers past. The rosewood bar stretches from wall to wall and, surprisingly, the wall-length mirror in back of the bar is still intact. The brass foot rail at the base of the bar is worn flat on the top from the countless patrons whose hard-earned wages were quickly converted into good times and song. Swinging doors lead back to the street to the north.

You can see a quarter-full bottle of whiskey, a cauldron (in which are a pan (which is empty), a square of gum base, a cube of sugar, two matches, a couple kernels of corn, a crumpled note, a silver spoon, a lantern, a leather-bound book, a green note, a shovel and some metallic flakes), a tin (in which are two portions of balm), a pitchfork, a piece of gauzy cloth, a cork, a table, a slot machine and a tray (which is empty) here.

You arise from the floor with a slight headache, but everything else seems to be intact.
action: You examine the recipe
response: The book is about the size of a small church hymn book. The leather cover is quite worn but still displays an array of wonderful artwork depicting scenes of cowboys, horses, and wide open vistas. The book is slightly singed in places, but more importantly, it appears as if most of the pages have been torn out.
action: You read it
response: The one remaining page looks like a recipe:

"QuickDraw McGraw"
1 square gum base
1 sprig sage
1 cube sugar

Mix together with silver spoon in iron vessel with pinch of Tryst. Effects are temporary and may vary widely when used with alcohol.
action: Look around
response: This old beer hall served its last cold one many summers past. The rosewood bar stretches from wall to wall and, surprisingly, the wall-length mirror in back of the bar is still intact. The brass foot rail at the base of the bar is worn flat on the top from the countless patrons whose hard-earned wages were quickly converted into good times and song. Swinging doors lead back to the street to the north.

You can see a quarter-full bottle of whiskey, a cauldron (in which are a pan (which is empty), a square of gum base, a cube of sugar, two matches, a couple kernels of corn, a crumpled note, a silver spoon, a lantern, a leather-bound book, a green note, a shovel and some metallic flakes), a tin (in which are two portions of balm), a pitchfork, a piece of gauzy cloth, a cork, a table, a slot machine and a tray (which is empty) here.
action: You get all
response: quarter-full bottle of whiskey: Taken.
cauldron: Taken.
tin: Taken.
pitchfork: Taken.
piece of gauzy cloth: Taken.
cork: Taken.
table: That's fixed in place.
slot machine: That's fixed in place.
tray: That's fixed in place.
action: You dig in the grave
response: What do you want to dig in the grave with?
action: Shovel
response: The ground is hard, but you manage to move a few shovelfuls of dirt.
action: You look at the grave
response: There is a small hole in the plot.
action: You dig in grave with the shovel
response: You start to break a sweat, but who ever said grave robbing was an easy business?
action: You keep going
response: This is more work than it's probably worth, as you have removed about 2 feet of soil.

A rather large bird lands on the tombstone and watches your suspicious activity.
action: You examine the bird
response: The Tombstone Jay (or just T-Jay for short) appears to be a lot more hawk than jay. Mixed in with the ash-gray feathers are streaks of red and brown. A ring of white circles his hooked beak as well as his imposing taloned feet.
action: You get the bird
response: Funny, the bird is probably thinking about doing the same to you.
action: You read the balm
response: The yellow oily balm has a pungent smell reminiscent of burning rubber.
action: You look at what you're carrying with you
response: You are carrying:
a cork
a piece of gauzy cloth
a pitchfork
a tin (which is open)
two portions of balm
a cauldron
a pan
a square of gum base
a cube of sugar
two matches
a couple kernels of corn
a crumpled note
a silver spoon
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
some metallic flakes
a quarter-full bottle of whiskey
action: You read the tin
response: The rusted square tin declares itself as "Scented Bag Balm" and includes these special directions:

"For minor congestion of the udder due to calving, high feeding, bruising or chilling. Using individual towels, thoroughly wash treated teats and udder before each milking to avoid contamination of milk. After each milking, bathe with plenty of hot water, strip milk out clean, dry skin and apply bag balm freely, massaging gently with this stiff ointment fifteen minutes twice daily or more often as needed. Special scented formula repels flies and other flying insects."
action: You give the corn to the bird
response: (first taking the couple kernels of corn)
The Tombstone Jay quickly gobbles down the corn.
action: You dig in the grave with the shovel
response: Your shovel contacts something soft but ungiving. After a few more shovelfuls, you uncover a pair of boots (which are fortunately unoccupied).
action: You get the boots
response: Taken.
action: You examine the boots
response: These boots have seen many a mile but have many a mile to go.
action: You dig in the grave with the shovel
response: Further digging might only result in something that will keep you awake nights.
action: You search it
response: Inside the thick mass of tumbleweeds you make out something with a reddish tinge.
action: You get reddish
response: The thorny mass of tumbleweeds is in the way.
action: You move the clump with the pitchfork
response: It is fixed in place.
action: You get the tumbleweeds with the pitchfork
response: You pitch the tumbleweeds to the side revealing an old rusted railroad handcar. The tumbleweeds blow away in the wind.
action: You examine the handcar
response: The handcar is a small platform with four wheels and a T-shaped handle for propulsion. There is a small lever near the split-wood floor.
action: You kill the snake
response: One of the snakes responds to your futile attack by striking at your leg. Fortunately, the snake only found air.
action: Go south
response: It is difficult to discern the trail here due to the thick sagebrush. The vegetation does thin a bit to the southeast and southwest, and a clear path leads north.

You can see a sprig of sage here.
action: You get the sage
response: (the sprig of sage)
Taken.
action: You examine the sage
response: (the sagebrush)
The aromatic brush sways briskly in the wind.
action: Go southwest
response: The trail descends here into a deep canyon cut into the surrounding sandstone. It is cooler here as most of the sunlight is blocked by the high walls. The path through the canyon proceeds to the west, where you see a large stone outcropping, and rises sharply to the northeast.
action: You go to the west
response: The far end of the canyon ends abruptly at this solid wall of sandstone which ascends over fifty feet from where you are standing. The trail winds around some scrub brush to a pile of rocks which rests against the face of the wall.
action: You move rocks
response: The rocks are much too heavy to move around.
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying:
a sprig of sage
a pair of old cowboy boots
a cork
a piece of gauzy cloth
a pitchfork
a tin (which is open)
two portions of balm
a cauldron
a pan
a square of gum base
a cube of sugar
two matches
a couple kernels of corn
a crumpled note
a silver spoon
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
some metallic flakes
a quarter-full bottle of whiskey
action: Go northeast
response: It is difficult to discern the trail here due to the thick sagebrush. The vegetation does thin a bit to the southeast and southwest, and a clear path leads north.
action: You go to the southeast
response: The main trail surrenders here to thick brush and thicket making further progress impossible. A faded sign is nailed to a huge willow tree whose long narrow branches just touch the ground. You can pick up the main trail to the northwest.
action: Go south
response: A small stream flowing from the west is only slightly hampered here by a deteriorating beaver dam which has formed a large deep pool of crystal clear water. Chokecherry bushes line the perimeter of the pool confining access to the pool to the area in which you are standing. The air is thick with mosquitos and gnats.

There is a flat-faced rock here, protruding just above the surface of the pool.

On the chokecherry bushes is a small bunch of berries.

The mosquitos and gnats start to eat you alive, forcing you to leave while you still can.

A well-traveled path from the west branches south and continues east here under the refreshing shade of the bordering oaks. The sloping path leading south appears somewhat muddy but the footing does not appear to be too difficult.
action: You wear the balm
response: (first taking some balm)
You put on some balm.
action: Go south
response: A small stream flowing from the west is only slightly hampered here by a deteriorating beaver dam which has formed a large deep pool of crystal clear water. Chokecherry bushes line the perimeter of the pool confining access to the pool to the area in which you are standing. The air is thick with mosquitos and gnats.

There is a flat-faced rock here, protruding just above the surface of the pool.

On the chokecherry bushes is a small bunch of berries.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You get the berries
response: Taken.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You look at the berries
response: The small black berries look quite inviting.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You examine the rock
response: This rectangular rock is about a foot from the bank and is almost completely submerged in water. The top of the rock is almost perfectly flat and has a fine gritty texture.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You get on the rock
response: You get onto the wet rock.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You check what you're carrying
response: You are carrying:
a small bunch of berries
some balm (being worn)
a sprig of sage
a pair of old cowboy boots
a cork
a piece of gauzy cloth
a pitchfork
a tin (which is open)
some balm
a cauldron
a pan
a square of gum base
a cube of sugar
two matches
a couple kernels of corn
a crumpled note
a silver spoon
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
some metallic flakes
a quarter-full bottle of whiskey

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You jump
response: You jump on the spot, fruitlessly.
The balm has worn out.

The mosquitos and gnats start to eat you alive, forcing you to leave while you still can.

A well-traveled path from the west branches south and continues east here under the refreshing shade of the bordering oaks. The sloping path leading south appears somewhat muddy but the footing does not appear to be too difficult.
action: You wear the balm
response: (some balm)
You're already wearing that!
The balm has worn out.

The mosquitos and gnats start to eat you alive, forcing you to leave while you still can.

A well-traveled path from the west branches south and continues east here under the refreshing shade of the bordering oaks. The sloping path leading south appears somewhat muddy but the footing does not appear to be too difficult.
action: You look at the tree
response: The weeping willow tree is about 30 feet tall and has countless long, delicate, drooping branches. There is a faded sign nailed to the trunk.
action: You cut the branch
response: What do you want to cut the weeping willow tree with?
action: You wear boots
response: One of the boots feels a bit more comfortable than the other. You put on the pair of old cowboy boots.
action: You examine the boots
response: These boots have seen many a mile but have many a mile to go.
action: Go southwest
response: The path here follows the bottom of a deep ravine, but more notably, is thickly covered with long-needle cacti. To the south, the path widens at the base of a large hill. To the northeast, the path heads towards a grove of trees.
action: You remove the boots
response: You take off the pair of old cowboy boots.
action: You look in the boots
response: Something flutters out of the boot.
action: Look around
response: The trail continues east-west here, but two side trails duck away up to the northwest and down to the southwest somewhat forming a fork.

You can see a soiled note here.
action: You get the note
response: (the soiled note)
Taken.
action: You read it
response: The note is hardly legible, but you can make out:

"If I have done kick the bucket, do the old man
a favor. Play a song on the squeezebox once
in a while for my ornery 'ol friend, and maybe
give him something to eat now and then.

(signed) Sheriff Laramie B. Dalton"
action: You wear the boots
response: You put on the pair of old cowboy boots.
action: Go southwest
response: The path here follows the bottom of a deep ravine, but more notably, is thickly covered with long-needle cacti. To the south, the path widens at the base of a large hill. To the northeast, the path heads towards a grove of trees.
action: Go south
response: The north-south path widens at the base of a steep rocky hill where an apparently large mining operation once stood. Another trail heads off to the east. Narrow gauge tracks come down a small knoll to the wide entrance carved into the hill. The entrance has been boarded over with thick timber and bears the notice "KEEP OUT" in crudely painted red letters. There is sign at the top of the entrance.

An ore car rests on the tracks at the top of the knoll. The car is tied by rope to a timber header at the end of the tracks.
action: You look at the sign
response: "Theodore & Sons Mining Co."
action: You go to the east
response: The path winds through thick bramble to a secluded clearing. In the middle of the clearing is a tall wooden derrick. Various debris is scattered around the derrick, including a bent-up green and white sign.
action: You examine the sign
response: "FUCE #12"
action: You examine the derrick
response: The long-abandoned wooden derrick stands about two stories high and tapers to a narrow platform on the top. The majority of wooden slats that should line the sides are either broken or missing.
action: Climb derrick
response: Just Off the Ground, On the Derrick
You are standing on a slat on the south face of the derrick just a few feet off the ground. Inscribed in one of the support beams just off to your left is the following:

"I go around in circles,
But always straight ahead
Never complain,
No matter where I am led.
What am I?"
action: You ascend
response: The wooden slats above are too loose for safe climbing.
action: Go south
response: The path quickly turns to the east, leading to...

The path winds through thick bramble to a secluded clearing. In the middle of the clearing is a tall wooden derrick. Various debris is scattered around the derrick, including a bent-up green and white sign.
action: Climb derrick
response: Just Off the Ground, On the Derrick
You are standing on a slat on the south face of the derrick just a few feet off the ground. Inscribed in one of the support beams just off to your left is the following:

"I go around in circles,
But always straight ahead
Never complain,
No matter where I am led.
What am I?"

Nola the Derrick Nymph appears and whispers in your ear "To answer the riddle, respond 'ANSWER whatever' or 'SAY whatever.'" In an instant, the little nymph disappears.
action: You say the wheel
response: The derrick shifts slightly and the timbers creak.
action: Go up
response: The structure seems to have stiffened up a bit, permitting further exploration.

About Half Way Up, On the Derrick
You are standing on a slat on the south face of the derrick halfway between the top and the base. Scrawled on one of the cross members is the following:

"My life can be measured in hours,
I serve by being devoured.
Thin, I am quick
Fat, I am slow
Wind is my foe.
What am I?"

You can see a nail (on which is a ship wheel) here.
action: You look at the wheel
response: The wooden ship wheel is about a foot in diameter and has six spokes between the outer rim and the inner hub. The inner hub has a carefully milled oval-shaped hole in the middle. There is a small brass plaque on one of the spokes.
action: You look at the plaque
response: The plaque reads:

"Leroy Raft never left the sea,
Ruined his ship finding Lorelee;
Long was his journey, no bride his reward;
Leroy Raft now lives in misery."
action: You say the candle
response: The derrick settles slightly and the timbers creak.
action: Go upwards
response: The structure seems to have stiffened up a bit, permitting further exploration.

Almost to the Top, On the Derrick
You are just a few feet from the top of the derrick. One of the adjacent slats has the following painted on it:

"I'm Black, I'm Brown,
Yellow and Clear;
I'm often found
Amongst the Gears.

And in the Ground,
I can ease a
Grating Sound.
What am I?"

There is a candle here wedged between a couple of pieces of wood.
action: You look at the candle
response: The candle is six inches long with a black curled wick.
action: You say oil
response: The derrick shudders and the timbers creak.
action: You go upward
response: The structure seems to have stiffened up a bit, permitting further exploration.

Platform, On the Derrick
You are on a narrow platform at the very top of the oil derrick. The platform is spotted with a number of bird droppings. The view from here is mostly obstructed by trees, but you can make out the hill with the mine to the west.

You can see a rusted oil can here.
action: You look at it
response: The rusted can has a long spout tapering to a narrow opening and seems to be half-full of oil.
action: Go downwards
response: Almost to the Top, On the Derrick
You are just a few feet from the top of the derrick. One of the adjacent slats has the following painted on it:

"I'm Black, I'm Brown,
Yellow and Clear;
I'm often found
Amongst the Gears.

And in the Ground,
I can ease a
Grating Sound.
What am I?"
action: Go downwards
response: About Half Way Up, On the Derrick
You are standing on a slat on the south face of the derrick halfway between the top and the base. Scrawled on one of the cross members is the following:

"My life can be measured in hours,
I serve by being devoured.
Thin, I am quick
Fat, I am slow
Wind is my foe.
What am I?"

You can see a nail here.
action: Go upward
response: The structure seems to have stiffened up a bit, permitting further exploration.

About Half Way Up, On the Derrick
You are standing on a slat on the south face of the derrick halfway between the top and the base. Scrawled on one of the cross members is the following:

"My life can be measured in hours,
I serve by being devoured.
Thin, I am quick
Fat, I am slow
Wind is my foe.
What am I?"

You can see a nail here.
action: You get nail
response: The nail is firmly fixed into the wood.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a rusted oil can
a candle
a ship wheel
a soiled note
a sprig of sage
a pair of old cowboy boots (being worn)
a cork
a piece of gauzy cloth
a pitchfork
a tin (which is open)
two portions of balm
a cauldron
a pan
a square of gum base
a cube of sugar
two matches
a couple kernels of corn
a crumpled note
a silver spoon
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
some metallic flakes
a quarter-full bottle of whiskey
action: You look at the wheel
response: The wooden ship wheel is about a foot in diameter and has six spokes between the outer rim and the inner hub. The inner hub has a carefully milled oval-shaped hole in the middle. There is a small brass plaque on one of the spokes.
action: You look at the plaque
response: The plaque reads:

"Leroy Raft never left the sea,
Ruined his ship finding Lorelee;
Long was his journey, no bride his reward;
Leroy Raft now lives in misery."
action: You read the book
response: The one remaining page looks like a recipe:

"QuickDraw McGraw"
1 square gum base
1 sprig sage
1 cube sugar

Mix together with silver spoon in iron vessel with pinch of Tryst. Effects are temporary and may vary widely when used with alcohol.
action: You get all from the cauldron
response: square of gum base: Removed.
cube of sugar: Removed.
match: Removed.
match: You're carrying too many things already.
couple kernels of corn: You're carrying too many things already. crumpled note: You're carrying too many things already.
silver spoon: You're carrying too many things already.
lantern: You're carrying too many things already.
leather-bound book: You're carrying too many things already.
green note: You're carrying too many things already.
shovel: You're carrying too many things already.
some metallic flakes: You're carrying too many things already.
action: You drop all
response: match: Dropped.
cube of sugar: Dropped.
square of gum base: Dropped.
pan: Dropped.
rusted oil can: Dropped.
candle: Dropped.
ship wheel: Dropped.
soiled note: Dropped.
sprig of sage: Dropped.
cork: Dropped.
piece of gauzy cloth: Dropped.
pitchfork: Dropped.
tin: Dropped.
cauldron: Dropped.
quarter-full bottle of whiskey: Dropped.
action: You get all from the cauldron
response: match: Removed.
couple kernels of corn: Removed.
crumpled note: Removed.
silver spoon: Removed.
lantern: Removed.
leather-bound book: Removed.
green note: Removed.
shovel: Removed.
some metallic flakes: Removed.
action: You put the gum base in the cauldron
response: You put the square of gum base into the cauldron.
action: You put it in the cauldron
response: You put the cube of sugar into the cauldron.
action: You put it in the cauldron
response: You put the sprig of sage into the cauldron.
action: You get Tryst
response: You already have that.
action: You put it in the cauldron
response: You put some metallic flakes into the cauldron.
action: You mix the cauldron
response: What do you want to mix the cauldron with?
action: Spoon
response: The mixture is difficult to stir at first. But soon, the ingredients turn into a viscous mass and the stirring becomes much easier. The cauldron starts to get hot and the mixture starts to bubble. Wisps of orange smoke are released periodically leaving a sweet aroma in the air. The cauldron then begins to shake violently and the orange smoke changes to billowing thick ash gray, totally obscuring sight of the cauldron. Then, the cauldron cools and the smoke clears revealing a small, perfectly spherical orange gumball in the bottom.
action: You examine the gumball
response: The orange gumball looks more like a marble than a confection.
action: You describe your surroundings
response: The path winds through thick bramble to a secluded clearing. In the middle of the clearing is a tall wooden derrick. Various debris is scattered around the derrick, including a bent-up green and white sign.

You can see a quarter-full bottle of whiskey, a cauldron (in which is an orange gumball), a tin (in which are two portions of balm), a pitchfork, a piece of gauzy cloth, a cork, a soiled note, a ship wheel, a candle, a rusted oil can, a pan (which is empty) and a match here.
action: You get all
response: quarter-full bottle of whiskey: Taken.
cauldron: Taken.
tin: Taken.
pitchfork: Taken.
piece of gauzy cloth: Taken.
cork: Taken.
soiled note: Taken.
ship wheel: You're carrying too many things already.
candle: You're carrying too many things already.
rusted oil can: You're carrying too many things already.
pan: You're carrying too many things already.
match: You're carrying too many things already.
action: You put all in the cauldron
response: soiled note: Done.
cork: Done.
piece of gauzy cloth: Done.
pitchfork: Done.
tin: Done.
quarter-full bottle of whiskey: Done.
shovel: Done.
green note: Done.
leather-bound book: Done.
lantern: Done.
silver spoon: Done.
crumpled note: Done.
couple kernels of corn: Done.
match: Done.
action: You get all
response: ship wheel: Taken.
candle: Taken.
rusted oil can: Taken.
pan: Taken.
match: Taken.
action: Look around
response: The path winds through thick bramble to a secluded clearing. In the middle of the clearing is a tall wooden derrick. Various debris is scattered around the derrick, including a bent-up green and white sign.
action: You go west
response: The north-south path widens at the base of a steep rocky hill where an apparently large mining operation once stood. Another trail heads off to the east. Narrow gauge tracks come down a small knoll to the wide entrance carved into the hill. The entrance has been boarded over with thick timber and bears the notice "KEEP OUT" in crudely painted red letters. There is sign at the top of the entrance.

An ore car rests on the tracks at the top of the knoll. The car is tied by rope to a timber header at the end of the tracks.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a match
a pan
a rusted oil can
a candle
a ship wheel
a cauldron
a match
a couple kernels of corn
a crumpled note
a silver spoon
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
a quarter-full bottle of whiskey
a tin (which is open)
two portions of balm
a pitchfork
a piece of gauzy cloth
a cork
a soiled note
an orange gumball
a pair of old cowboy boots (being worn)
action: You get the whiskey
response: That seems to be a part of the quarter-full bottle of whiskey.
action: You taste the whiskey
response: Your head starts to spin...

The ol' saloon is hoppin' tonight! Dance girls (ahem) swarm the dusty patrons, encouraging them to drink and gamble amongst other indiscretions. Above all the whoopin' 'n hollerin', you can just make out the tinny ragtime of an unseen brass-tack piano. The barkeep is shoveling out drinks to the bar at a furious pace while one of the other hired help polishes the wall-length mirror. Swinging doors lead back to the street to the north.

You can see a table here.

John Bro calls for one of the dance hall girls and whispers something in her ear. The girl blushes and walks away giggling.
action: You eat the orange gumball
response: (first taking the orange gumball)
The gum isn't as sweet and flavorful as one might have hoped, but, all in all, it's a good chew. The flavor does not last very long and, in fact, the gum itself doesn't last very long. In an instant, the gum dissolves leaving nothing but a sagey taste in your mouth. Nonetheless, you are feeling a bit perkier and your fingers are starting to twitch.
action: You taste the whiskey
response: Your head starts to spin...

The ol' saloon is hoppin' tonight! Dance girls (ahem) swarm the dusty patrons, encouraging them to drink and gamble amongst other indiscretions. Above all the whoopin' 'n hollerin', you can just make out the tinny ragtime of an unseen brass-tack piano. The barkeep is shoveling out drinks to the bar at a furious pace while one of the other hired help polishes the wall-length mirror. Swinging doors lead back to the street to the north.

You can see a table here.
action: You ask John about the gun
response: "Here, you might be needin' this," whispers John Bro as he places a small gun in the palm of your hand.

The bartender pulls out a small flask and takes a swig when no one is looking.
action: Go north
response: A big burly man bursts through the swinging doors and yells, "What the hell ya think yer doin' missy sittin' at mah table? Hey barkeep, I should shoot yer ears off for lettin' this wench clutter up mah place here!"

The ol' saloon is quieter than a church. Patrons and dance girls line the walls to avoid being in the line of fire. The barkeep is huddled behind the bar occasionally peeking out to view the situation. The rest of the hired help is nowhere to be seen.

You can see Black Thad McGee and a table here.
action: You shoot thad
response: You close your eyes and let out a shot in the direction of Black Thad McGee. The shot veers left, hitting his right-hand pistol and knocking it to the floor. The bullet ricochets off the pistol and hits the wall-length mirror dead center. The whole mirror gives way, crashing to the floor.

Black Thad shouts, "What ya did that for?!" holding his right thumb in obvious pain. Your victory, however, is somewhat short-lived as one of the dance hall girls grabs the whiskey bottle and shatters it against your head. As your consciousness starts to fade while you're staring point blank at the floor, you surmise that the woman just might have been Black Thad McGee's girlfriend.

This old beer hall served its last cold one many summers past. The rosewood bar stretches from wall to wall and, unsurprisingly, only a few shards remain of the once wall-length mirror in back of the bar. In place of the mirror, there is a narrow doorway heading east. The brass foot rail at the base of the bar is worn flat on the top from the countless patrons whose hard-earned wages were quickly converted into good times and song. Swinging doors lead back to the street to the north.

You can see shards of glass, a pair of old cowboy boots, a cauldron (in which are a match, a couple kernels of corn, a crumpled note, a silver spoon, a lantern, a leather-bound book, a green note, a shovel, a tin (in which are two portions of balm), a pitchfork, a piece of gauzy cloth and a soiled note), a ship wheel, a candle, a rusted oil can, a pan (which is empty), a match, a table, a slot machine and a tray (which is empty) here.

You stand up, apparently none the worse for wear.
action: You go east
response: This area was probably used as a storage area for the bar prior to the acquisition of the huge mirror. The rest of the saloon lies to the west.

You can see a dull knife here.
action: You examine the knife
response: The knife is about eight inches long with a steel blade and wooden handle. The knife is almost too dull to cut water.
action: Go west
response: This old beer hall served its last cold one many summers past. The rosewood bar stretches from wall to wall and, unsurprisingly, only a few shards remain of the once wall-length mirror in back of the bar. In place of the mirror, there is a narrow doorway heading east. The brass foot rail at the base of the bar is worn flat on the top from the countless patrons whose hard-earned wages were quickly converted into good times and song. Swinging doors lead back to the street to the north.

You can see shards of glass, a pair of old cowboy boots, a cauldron (in which are a match, a couple kernels of corn, a crumpled note, a silver spoon, a lantern, a leather-bound book, a green note, a shovel, a tin (in which are two portions of balm), a pitchfork, a piece of gauzy cloth and a soiled note), a ship wheel, a candle, a rusted oil can, a pan (which is empty), a match, a table, a slot machine and a tray (which is empty) here.
action: You get all
response: shards of glass: The shards are too small to be handled safely.
pair of old cowboy boots: Taken.
cauldron: Taken.
ship wheel: Taken.
candle: Taken.
rusted oil can: Taken.
pan: Taken.
match: Taken.
table: That's fixed in place.
slot machine: That's fixed in place.
tray: That's fixed in place.
action: You check what you're carrying
response: You are carrying:
a match
a pan
a rusted oil can
a candle
a ship wheel
a cauldron
a match
a couple kernels of corn
a crumpled note
a silver spoon
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
a tin (which is open)
two portions of balm
a pitchfork
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots
a dull knife
action: You pry hole with the knife
response: Trying to pry the hole is futile.
action: You put the knife in the hole
response: The hole is too small for that.
action: You examine the corn
response: The corn kernels are dry and hard as a rock.
action: You put the corn in hole
response: The corn kernels disappear down the hole.
action: You shake the pan
response: Using your best gold panning technique, you swish the wet slurry around, discarding the lighter materials in the process. You are quickly disappointed to find nothing left in the pan.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a couple kernels of corn
a pitchfork
a match
a pan
a rusted oil can
a candle
a ship wheel
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a silver spoon
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
a tin (which is open)
two portions of balm
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots
a dull knife
action: Drink water
response: The cool water really hits the spot!
action: You eat the corn
response: You eat the couple kernels of corn. Not bad.
action: You look at what you're carrying with you
response: You are carrying:
a tin (which is open)
two portions of balm
a couple kernels of corn
a pitchfork
a match
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a ship wheel
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a silver spoon
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots
a dull knife
action: You examine the slurry
response: The gravel, sand, and water make up a dark brown slurry.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a tin (which is open)
two portions of balm
a pitchfork
a match
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a ship wheel
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a silver spoon
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots
a dull knife
action: You eat it
response: (first taking the dozen or so sugar cubes)
"Waste not, want not."
action: You look at the box
response: The box is adorned with a drawing of a cute redhead and the printing "Mon Cheri's Tea Sugar."
action: You look at the sugar
response: (the dozen or so sugar cubes)
The cubes are pure white in color and neatly arranged in the box.
action: You taste the sugar
response: (the dozen or so sugar cubes)
You taste nothing unexpected.
action: You eat sugar
response: (the cube of sugar)
The sugar quickly dissolves in your mouth leaving a sweet aftertaste.
action: You look around
response: The musty smell of rotting wood greets your arrival at this rather dark dry goods store. An empty wood and glass counter parallel to the east wall displays mere remnants of the grains, sugar, fruit, and candy once plentiful in each of the adjacent bins. The shelves behind the counter are now only a repository for dust and a framework for countless cobwebs. The wooden floorboards, once sanded and polished, are now buckled and decrepit. A pair of broken doors leads out to the south and an open screen door leads to the west.

One of the floorboards squeaks when you step on it.

On the shelves are a stack of gum base and a box (in which is a dozen or so sugar cubes).
action: You go to the north
response: A pair of broken doors leads out to the south and an open screen door leads to the west.
action: You ask George about Thad
response: "Deadeye use to be a nice place to live. Lots of good people from all 'round came to live here. Heck, ya could leave yer horse on the street fer a week and nobody'd mess with it."

"One day back a spell, Black Thad started to hang out 'bout town. He were more a pain in the neck than anything. He didn't bother folks much at first. Oh sure, he'd shoot up the place and pick a fight at the drop of a hat, but he didn't hurt folks too much."

"'Tweren't long after the Spring rains when Black Thad picked, of all things, a fight with a goshdarn woman at the saloon. Heck, ya know, Thad was just havin' some fun and the gal shot his thumb off. Now I'll tell ya, Thad was mean before, but thar weren't no puttin' up with him after he gone and lost his thumb to a woman. He started shootin', killin', robbin' and gettin' real nasty. When folks started to call him 'Thumbless Thad' he took it real personal and tried to burn down the whole damn town."

"Well, as if things' tweren't bad enough, he even shot the sheriff and made us bury him without his boots. Well, that was the last straw and folks 'round here just headed out of town. Moved to HerringVille, most of 'em. The few folks that did stay to tend the mine and the oil well were driven out by the Biscuit Brothers and the like who grew quite partial to a town without a sheriff. Soon the whole town just went to the ghosts and if 'twerent fer me, I reckon there'd be nothin' left. Now without ma place and horse, I be thinkin' I best be wanderin' up to HerringVille."
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a cube of sugar
a tin (which is open)
two portions of balm
a couple kernels of corn
a pitchfork
a match
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a ship wheel
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a silver spoon
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots
a dull knife
action: You examine the ash
response: The paper-thin ashes drift aimlessly around in the air.
action: You examine the brass key
response: This is pretty much your average brass key with few distinguishing features except for the voluptuous lady carefully engraved onto the shaft.
action: Go west
response: You are on your way to HerringVille, but it's not to late turn back to the east.

You really should reconsider your course of action before something discouraging occurs.
action: You go west
response: You are on your way to HerringVille, but it's not to late turn back to the east.

The "bad" in badlands is not just there for amusement.
action: You go west
response: You are on your way to HerringVille, but it's not to late turn back to the east.

Last chance to turn back.
action: Go west
response: Now you've done it....

You are lost on a windy road that weaves between high plateaus and into narrow ravines. There is little in the way of vegetation or anything else of interest.
action: Go west
response: You are lost on a windy road that weaves between high plateaus and into narrow ravines. There is little in the way of vegetation or anything else of interest.
action: You go to the west
response: The wind picks up a bit and you can swear you can hear someone whisper "XYZZY."

You are lost on a windy road that weaves between high plateaus and into narrow ravines. There is little in the way of vegetation or anything else of interest.
action: Xyzzy
response: Your mind starts to wander...

You are in a debris room filled with stuff washed in from the surface. A low wide passage with cobbles becomes plugged with mud and debris here, but an awkward canyon leads upward and west.

A note on the wall says, "Magic word XYZZY."

A three foot black rod with a rusty star on one end lies nearby.
action: You take the rod
response: Now don't you think someone might be disappointed if they came out of the 'Cobble Crawl' or 'Sloping E/W Canyon' and didn't find the black rod here? You had best leave it alone and concentrate on getting out of your little predicament.
action: Go upward
response: You bump into something sharp, disturbing your daydream.

The trail is straight as an arrow as it leads to the badlands to the west and towards Deadeye Gulch to the east. A barely legible sign shaped like an arrow points west.
action: You unlock door
response: What do you want to unlock the jail door with?
action: Cuss
response: "Horsefeathers!" Feel better now?
action: You go west
response: Suddenly, a rather soiled if not rotting individual comes up from behind and grabs you by the ear. He pulls hard, dragging you through town, and lectures,

"Dadgummit anyhow! You folks think you can come into town and shoot up the place, gamble til dawn, and swear any damn where ya please. Just cause I'm dead don't mean there ain't no law in this town."

The bootless man loses about half a dozen heavily yellowed teeth during this brief oration as well as two fingers off of his left hand. A large red worm crawls out of his right ear, meanders down his shriveled neck and nestles in the tattered clothing around his tarnished badge.

"Ya just can't trust folks anymore to follow the laws. Hell, just because yer six feet under, folks don't have no respect fer ya."

The stench of the little man becomes almost overwhelming as he finally approaches his destination. He unlocks the jail door and flings you into the cell.

"Now, you be mindin' yerself or I'll be stringin' ya to a tree!"

The sheriff strolls off in the direction of Boot Hill, losing part of his nose in the process.

This small jail was not designed for the comfort of its occupants. It is impossible to stand without hunching over and you can touch any two walls at the same time. The only relief from the crumbling stucco walls is the iron-barred door to the north.

One of the bars must have fallen off of the door and onto the floor of the jail.
action: You take the bar
response: Taken.
action: Look around
response: This small jail was not designed for the comfort of its occupants. It is impossible to stand without hunching over and you can touch any two walls at the same time. The only relief from the crumbling stucco walls is the iron-barred door to the north.
action: Wait
response: Time passes.
action: You pry the door with the bar
response: Trying to pry the jail door is futile.
action: Wait
response: Time passes.
The half-rotting sheriff walks up to the jail cell and unlocks the door and mumbles,

"Now you be watchin' yerself now. I ain't goin' to put up with yer doins no more."

The sheriff hobbles down Main Street, losing the better part of his left leg during the journey.
action: You open the door
response: You open the jail door.
action: Examine bar
response: It's a five foot long iron bar with a pointed end.
action: You go north
response: The musty smell of rotting wood greets your arrival at this rather dark dry goods store. An empty wood and glass counter parallel to the east wall displays mere remnants of the grains, sugar, fruit, and candy once plentiful in each of the adjacent bins. The shelves behind the counter are now only a repository for dust and a framework for countless cobwebs. The wooden floorboards, once sanded and polished, are now buckled and decrepit. A pair of broken doors leads out to the south and an open screen door leads to the west.

One of the floorboards squeaks when you step on it.

On the shelves are a stack of gum base and a box (in which is a dozen or so sugar cubes).
action: You put the bar in the hole
response: (the iron bar in the hole)
The hole is too small for that.
action: You take something with the bar
response: (the window bars)
Taken.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a silver spoon
an iron bar
a cube of sugar
a tin (which is open)
two portions of balm
a couple kernels of corn
a pitchfork
a match
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a ship wheel
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots
a dull knife
action: Examine bar
response: (the window bars)
The bars are thick and unremovable.
action: You pry the hole with the bar
response: (the window bars)

Trying to pry the hole is futile.
action: You examine iron bar
response: It's a five foot long iron bar with a pointed end.
action: You pry the floor with the iron bar
response: Trying to pry the floor is futile.
action: You take the iron bar
response: You already have that.
action: You put the iron bar in the hole
response: The hole is too small for that.
action: Go east
response: The main part of town seems to be to the west and the trail out of town is to the south. There is a barn-like structure to the north.
action: You move the rail with the bar
response: Using the iron bar as a lever, you move the broken rail back into place, restoring the integrity of the tracks.
action: Go east
response: The tracks continue east-west here through thick scrub brush and an occasional patch of cactus. There is a short section of track running parallel to, and eventually joining, the main track to form a spur.

There is a rusted old handcar on the track spur.
action: Oil handcar
response: What do you want to oil the handcar with?
action: Oil handcar with oil can
response: You carefully oil everywhere there's a moving surface.
action: You get in the handcar
response: You get into the handcar.
action: You pull the lever
response: You move the lever to the aft position.
action: You pull the lever
response: The lever is as far aft as it can go.
action: Keep going
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

Broken Track (in the handcar)
The heat is stifling at this barren strip of track seemingly in the middle of nowhere. Even the ever present weeds have given up this area as hopeless and only a few cacti have managed to gain a foothold in the constantly shifting sand. The tracks here look to be in good shape despite the shifting sand.
action: Continue
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

Narrow Ravine (in the handcar)
The tracks gradually turn southwest here through a tight ravine cut into the sandy soil. Thick brush once again lines the tracks limiting passage only along the tracks themselves.

The tracks through the ravine are littered with rattlesnakes.
action: Continue
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

Numerous snakes strike at the wheels of the handcar.

End of the Line (in the handcar)
Your makeshift railroad comes to an end here as several feet of sand cover the tracks. Right next to the tracks to the south is a small sod structure with a faded sign on top.
action: You examine the sign
response: The sign reads:
"Danger Explosives R&L RailRoad"
action: You examine the structure
response: This old shack has all but lost the battle against the elements. The roof, sagging from its own weight, looks as if it will collapse at any moment. The mud walls are weed-ridden and crumbling. All in all, this looks like a great place to kill some time.
action: You go south
response: You'll have to get out of the handcar first.
action: You go outside
response: You get out of the handcar.

Your makeshift railroad comes to an end here as several feet of sand cover the tracks. Right next to the tracks to the south is a small sod structure with a faded sign on top.

There is a rusted old handcar on the track spur.
action: You open the door
response: It seems to be locked.
action: You examine the door
response: No mud in this door, just solid wood. In fact, it's your everyday solid wood door with an oval peg extending from the center.
action: You put the wheel on the peg
response: The wheel fits snugly on the peg.
action: Turn wheel
response: You can turn the wheel right or left.
action: Turn wheel left
response: You hear a muted "click" within the door.
action: Turn wheel left
response: You hear a subtle "click" within the door.
action: Turn wheel right
response: "THUNK!"
action: You open the door
response: You open the door.
action: Go south
response: The inside of the shack smells quite musty and there is dust everywhere. Narrow shafts of light from the decaying roof highlight the dark dirt floor. There is a door to the north.

You can see a metal strongbox (which is closed) here.
action: Examine box
response: The metal container is made from polished brass and is about the size of a shoe box. On the front face of the box is small keyhole.
action: You get the box
response: The strongbox is way too heavy to be lifted.
action: You pry the box with the bar
response: Trying to pry the metal strongbox is futile.
action: You dig the floor
response: What do you want to dig the floor with?
action: You look at what you're carrying with you
response: You are carrying:
a silver spoon
an iron bar
a cube of sugar
a tin (which is open)
two portions of balm
a couple kernels of corn
a pitchfork
a match
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots
a dull knife
action: Go north
response: Your makeshift railroad comes to an end here as several feet of sand cover the tracks. Right next to the tracks to the south is a small sod structure with a faded sign on top.

There is a rusted old handcar on the track spur.

On the peg is a ship wheel.
action: You get on the car
response: You get into the handcar.
action: You pull the lever
response: You move the lever to the aft position.
action: Keep going
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

Broken Track (in the handcar)
The heat is stifling at this barren strip of track seemingly in the middle of nowhere. Even the ever present weeds have given up this area as hopeless and only a few cacti have managed to gain a foothold in the constantly shifting sand. The tracks here look to be in good shape despite the shifting sand.
action: You keep going
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

Track Crossing (in the handcar)
A set of well-worn railroad tracks crosses the north-south trail here. The wooden ties have all but disintegrated and the rails are thick with bright red rust. The weed ridden-tracks run east-west.
action: You pull the lever
response: The lever is as far aft as it can go.
action: You get off the handcar
response: You get out of the handcar.

A set of well-worn railroad tracks crosses the north-south trail here. The wooden ties have all but disintegrated and the rails are thick with bright red rust. The weed ridden-tracks run east-west.

There is a rusted old handcar on the track spur.
action: You go to the east
response: You are in a flat grassy area surrounded by scrub pines and large granite boulders. Purple and yellow wildflowers flourish in this area and the attendant bees are laden full with pollen and nectar. A lightly traveled path winds west through the rocks.
action: Go north
response: A set of well-worn railroad tracks crosses the north-south trail here. The wooden ties have all but disintegrated and the rails are thick with bright red rust. The weed ridden-tracks run east-west.

There is a rusted old handcar on the track spur.
action: You go to the east
response: You are standing atop a large knoll which apparently served as a cemetery at some point in time. Remains of a picket fence lie strewn about the hillside and most of the gravestones have disintegrated beyond recognition. One granite marker at the head of a grassless plot, however, remains intact.

There is a Tombstone Jay here standing on top of the grave marker.
action: Go east
response: The only way off the hill is down to the west.
action: You go to the south
response: The only way out of the clearing is to the west.
action: You search the car
response: The ore car is empty.
action: You untie the rope
response: Nice try, but it will hardly contribute to your score.
action: You go north
response: The path here follows the bottom of a deep ravine, but more notably, is thickly covered with long-needle cacti. To the south, the path widens at the base of a large hill. To the northeast, the path heads towards a grove of trees.
action: Go north
response: As you proceed up the hill, your bones start to hurt and you feel like you're....

"I'm too old for this nonsense" is your first thought after a brief journey over the crest of the hill to this dirt outcropping on the north side. Momentarily ignoring your aching joints and brief memory lapses, you spot a trail heading south up the hill. Oddly, the trail shows signs of fresh footprints.
action: You go north
response: The path to the south looks like your only sure bet.
action: You go south
response: As you return back, the spring returns to your step and you again feel like your youthful self again.

The whole valley is revealed to you as you approach the summit. To the east, you see the largely decaying town of Deadeye Gulch, and just further, the small knoll known as Boot Hill. To the south, the dusty valley floor unfolds, divided by a small tree-lined creek. Large snowy mountains abut the hill to the north while endless badlands reach out seemingly forever to the west. The main trail continues around the hill to the west and down to the southwest, whereas a faint side trail heads towards the crest to the north.
action: You go west
response: Wisps of steam rise off of the charred timbers of what was once a fair-sized building. Small flames flare up occasionally producing a deep crackling sound. Paper-thin pieces of ash float hither and yon. An odd-shaped sign lies on the ground.

George is here staring at the charred remains of his gum factory.

There is a brass key hanging on George's belt.

You can also see a burned sketch here.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a silver spoon
an iron bar
a cube of sugar
a tin (which is open)
two portions of balm
a couple kernels of corn
a pitchfork
a match
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a green note
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots (being worn)
a dull knife
action: You give the green note to George
response: (first taking the green note)
"Thank you kindly ma'am, but I ain't interested in none of your stuff."
action: You wear the balm
response: (some balm)
You put on some balm.
action: Go south
response: A small stream flowing from the west is only slightly hampered here by a deteriorating beaver dam which has formed a large deep pool of crystal clear water. Chokecherry bushes line the perimeter of the pool confining access to the pool to the area in which you are standing. The air is thick with mosquitos and gnats.

There is a flat-faced rock here, protruding just above the surface of the pool.

On the chokecherry bushes is a small bunch of berries.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You sharpen the knife on the rock
response: You work the knife over the gritty surface of the stone until the blade is as sharp as a scalpel.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You eat the berries
response: The berries taste a little tart but quickly bring back memories of long summer days and fall canning. As these memories progress, you start to envision Dehlila picking berries from these very same bushes. Suddenly she is startled and rubs a locket hanging from her neck, and disappears!

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: Look around
response: A small stream flowing from the west is only slightly hampered here by a deteriorating beaver dam which has formed a large deep pool of crystal clear water. Chokecherry bushes line the perimeter of the pool confining access to the pool to the area in which you are standing. The air is thick with mosquitos and gnats.

There is a flat-faced rock here, protruding just above the surface of the pool.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You search the bushes
response: There is nothing on the chokecherry bushes.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: Go east
response: You are in a flat grassy area surrounded by scrub pines and large granite boulders. Purple and yellow wildflowers flourish in this area and the attendant bees are laden full with pollen and nectar. A lightly traveled path winds west through the rocks.
The balm has worn out.
action: You cut the branch with the knife
response: You lop off one of the branches and it falls to the ground.
action: You look at the branch
response: (the stick)
The willow stick is about 3 feet long and thin as a pencil.
action: You check what you're carrying
response: You are carrying:
a green note
a silver spoon
an iron bar
a cube of sugar
a tin (which is open)
some balm
a couple kernels of corn
a pitchfork
a match
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots (being worn)
a sharp knife
action: Go southeast
response: The main trail surrenders here to thick brush and thicket making further progress impossible. A faded sign is nailed to a huge willow tree whose long narrow branches just touch the ground. You can pick up the main trail to the northwest.

You can see a stick here.
action: You put the stick in the hole
response: You poke the stick into the hole, move it around and take it back out without retrieving anything.
action: You look at what you're carrying with you
response: You are carrying:
a stick
a green note
a silver spoon
an iron bar
a cube of sugar
a tin (which is open)
some balm
a couple kernels of corn
a pitchfork
a match
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots (being worn)
a sharp knife
action: Chew gum
response: (the stack of gum base)
Some people will chew on anything.
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying:
a square of gum base
a stick
a green note
a silver spoon
an iron bar
a cube of sugar
a tin (which is open)
some balm
a couple kernels of corn
a pitchfork
a match
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots (being worn)
a sharp knife
action: Chew square
response: Which do you mean, the square of gum base or the tin?
action: Gum
response: The gum base tastes terrible, lacking any flavorings or sugar. You quickly take it out of your mouth.
action: You put the gum on the stick
response: The wad of gum base sticks nicely to the end of the stick.
action: You look around
response: Abandoned teller windows line the west wall of this former financial hub of the Deadeye community. Not unlike everything else in town, it too has fallen into disrepair. To the north you can make out an open vault and to the south lies Main Street.

There is a hole in one of the floorboards.

You can also see a gold locket (which is closed) here.
action: You wear the locket
response: You put on the gold locket.
action: You open the locket
response: You open the gold locket.
action: You look in locket
response: The gold locket is empty.
action: You rub it
response: Nothing seems to happen.
action: Close locket
response: You close the gold locket.
action: Wave locket
response: You look ridiculous waving the gold locket.
action: You wear it
response: You're already wearing that!
action: You look at what you're carrying with you
response: You are carrying:
a gold locket (being worn and closed)
a stick
a sticky (lightly chewed) square of gum base
a green note
a silver spoon
an iron bar
a cube of sugar
a tin (which is open)
some balm
a couple kernels of corn
a pitchfork
a match
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots (being worn)
a sharp knife
action: Rub locket
response: Nothing seems to happen.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You touch the locket
response: You feel nothing unexpected.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You open the locket
response: You open the gold locket.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You look at the locket
response: The gold locket, which is shaped like a quarter-moon, is attached to a fine gold chain which is more than long enough to fit over your head.

The mosquitos and gnats don't want anything to do with that smelly stuff you're wearing.
action: You look at what you're carrying with you
response: You are carrying:
a gold locket (being worn and closed)
a stick
a sticky (lightly chewed) square of gum base
a green note
a silver spoon
an iron bar
a cube of sugar
a tin (which is open)
some balm
a couple kernels of corn
a pitchfork
a match
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a lantern
a leather-bound book
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots (being worn)
a sharp knife
action: You get off
response: You get out of the handcar.

Your makeshift railroad comes to an end here as several feet of sand cover the tracks. Right next to the tracks to the south is a small sod structure with a faded sign on top.

There is a rusted old handcar on the track spur.

On the peg is a ship wheel.
action: You read sign
response: The sign reads:
"Danger Explosives R&L RailRoad"
action: Unlock  bounlock   box
response: What do you want to unlock the metal strongbox with?
action: You go west
response: The heat is stifling at this barren strip of track seemingly in the middle of nowhere. Even the ever present weeds have given up this area as hopeless and only a few cacti have managed to gain a foothold in the constantly shifting sand. The tracks here look to be in good shape despite the shifting sand.
action: You examine the plot
response: There is a deep hole here. Better be careful.
action: Dig
response: What do you want to dig up?
action: You dig the plot
response: What do you want to dig the grave with?
action: You pry timber
response: What do you want to pry the timber with?
action: Bar
response: Trying to pry the timber is futile.
action: You say the timber
response: Nothing seems to have happened.
action: You look at the timber
response: Wood by any other name...
action: You cut the rope with knife
response: The knife easily cuts through the rope, releasing the ore car. The ore car starts slowly and gradually increases its  pace towards the entrance. After twenty feet of travel the car is moving at a fair clip; after forty, the wheels start to scream.

The ore car slams into the entrance like a blur. The timbers barring the entrance yield instantly at the impact as the car continues its journey into the mine shaft and out of sight.
action: Look around
response: The north-south path widens at the base of a steep rocky hill where an apparently large mining operation once stood. Another trail heads off to the east. Narrow gauge tracks come down a small knoll down to the wide entrance carved into the hill. A mass of broken timbers surround the base of the foreboding entrance to the west. There is a sign at the top of the entrance.
action: You go west
response: You are in a dark mine shaft. The tracks coming from the entrance to the east end here. On the tracks, you see an ore car. Up high in the roof of the shaft, there is a narrow dark opening. You can proceed west to go deeper into the mine or exit the mine to the east.

On the tracks you see an ore car.

There is an ever-so-slight breeze in here.
action: You examine the lantern
response: Hardly your brass variety, but a serviceable lamp with a glass chimney.

There is an ever-so-slight breeze in here.
action: Light lantern with match
response: (the match)
You have nothing to light the lantern with.

There is an ever-so-slight breeze in here.
action: You switch the lantern on
response: That's not something you can switch.

There is an ever-so-slight breeze in here.
action: Light lantern
response: You have nothing to light the lantern with.

There is an ever-so-slight breeze in here.
action: Light match
response: You strike the match on a convenient surface and it flares to life.

There is an ever-so-slight breeze in here.
action: Light lantern with match
response: (the match)
You light the lantern.

There is an ever-so-slight breeze in here.
action: Go west
response: You are in a mine shaft with many intersecting tunnels.

There is an ever-so-slight breeze in here.

The match has gone out.
action: You go west
response: You are in a mine shaft with many intersecting tunnels.

There is an ever-so-slight breeze in here.
action: You take the candle
response: You already have that.

There is an ever-so-slight breeze in here.
action: You light the candle with the lamp
response: (first taking the lantern)
You light the candle.

The candle aimlessly flickers about.
action: You examine the candle
response: The candle is six inches long and sports a brilliant yellow flame.

The candle aimlessly flickers about.
action: Go west
response: You are in a mine shaft with many intersecting tunnels.

The candle aimlessly flickers about.
action: You go to the east
response: You are in a mine shaft with many intersecting tunnels.

The candle flame swirls from the northeast to the east.
action: You go northeast
response: The shaft narrows here to a mere crawlway. There is a small crack in one of the walls.

The candle flame flickers towards the southwest.
action: You examine the crack
response: It's a small split in the wall face.

The candle flame flickers towards the southwest.
action: You look in the crack
response: In the crack is a piece of Trystanium.

The candle flame flickers towards the southwest.
action: You take the Trystanium
response: Taken.

The candle flame flickers towards the southwest.
action: You look at it
response: The small crescent-shaped stone is surprisingly heavy and emits an eerie blue glow. On closer examination, you find it's more metal than mineral.

The candle flame flickers towards the southwest.
action: You go to the northeast
response: You are in a mine shaft with many intersecting tunnels.

The candle flame swirls from the west to the southwest.
action: Go west
response: You are in a mine shaft with many intersecting tunnels.

The candle flame flickers towards the east.
action: Go west
response: The mine shaft opens here into a large chamber. Light streams in from a three-foot hole in the ceiling. Presumably, the hole was chiseled in the rock as a vent for the mine system. You can see the mine shaft to the east.

Someone has abandoned an old accordion here.

The candle aimlessly flickers about.
action: You take the accordion
response: You're carrying too many things already.

The candle aimlessly flickers about.
action: You open the locket
response: You open the gold locket.

The candle aimlessly flickers about.
action: You put the Trystanium in it
response: The piece of Trystanium fits snugly inside the locket.

The candle aimlessly flickers about.
action: Close locket
response: You close the gold locket.

The candle aimlessly flickers about.
action: You take the accordion
response: Taken.

The candle aimlessly flickers about.
action: You put it in the cauldron
response: You put the accordion into the cauldron.

The candle aimlessly flickers about.
action: You look around
response: The mine shaft opens here into a large chamber. Light streams in from a three-foot hole in the ceiling. Presumably, the hole was chiseled in the rock as a vent for the mine system. You can see the mine shaft to the east.

The candle aimlessly flickers about.
action: You go upward
response: The hole is about twenty feet up.

The candle aimlessly flickers about.
action: Go east
response: You are in a mine shaft with many intersecting tunnels.

The candle flame flickers towards the east.
action: Go east
response: You are in a mine shaft with many intersecting tunnels.

The candle flame swirls from the west to the southwest.
action: You go to the east
response: You are in a dark mine shaft. The tracks coming from the entrance to the east end here. On the tracks, you see an ore car. Up high in the roof of the shaft, there is a narrow dark opening. You can proceed west to go deeper into the mine or exit the mine to the east.

On the tracks you see an ore car.

The candle flame flickers towards the east.
action: You go to the east
response: The north-south path widens at the base of a steep rocky hill where an apparently large mining operation once stood. Another trail heads off to the east. Narrow gauge tracks come down a small knoll down to the wide entrance carved into the hill. A mass of broken timbers surround the base of the foreboding entrance to the west. There is a sign at the top of the entrance.

The candle flame whimpers out and dies.
action: You play it
response: Just as you are about to play, the Tombstone Jay takes to flight and strips the accordion from your grasp. The huge bird flies due east with his quarry until he is out of sight. In a few moments, the bird returns with empty talons and settles back on the grave marker.
action: You give the corn to the bird
response: The Tombstone Jay quickly gobbles down the corn.
action: You go to the west
response: The massive bird takes to the air and disappears to the north.

The trail here turns to fine dust with only a trace of vegetation. The wind is howling from the west, blowing dust, sand, and tumbleweeds everywhere. A brief respite in the blowing debris allows you to see the trail continuing north and an overgrown path going up to the east.
action: Go south
response: The path quickly turns to the east, leading to...

The path winds through thick bramble to a secluded clearing. In the middle of the clearing is a tall wooden derrick. Various debris is scattered around the derrick, including a bent-up green and white sign.

You can see an accordion here.
action: You play it
response: The old accordion honks, wheezes and spews out clouds of dust. Somehow though, through the melee, a couple of tones do manage to escape.
action: Go upwards
response: The structure seems to have stiffened up a bit, permitting further exploration.

Almost to the Top, On the Derrick
You are just a few feet from the top of the derrick. One of the adjacent slats has the following painted on it:

"I'm Black, I'm Brown,
Yellow and Clear;
I'm often found
Amongst the Gears.

And in the Ground,
I can ease a
Grating Sound.
What am I?"
action: Go upwards
response: The structure seems to have stiffened up a bit, permitting further exploration.

Platform, On the Derrick
You are on a narrow platform at the very top of the oil derrick. The platform is spotted with a number of bird droppings. The view from here is mostly obstructed by trees, but you can make out the hill with the mine to the west.

High overhead, a Tombstone Jay circles the derrick with a bright yellow object grasped in its talons.
action: You examine jay
response: The huge bird is flying much too high to discern any detail.

High overhead, a Tombstone Jay circles the derrick with a bright yellow object grasped in its talons.
action: You play accordion
response: The old accordion honks, wheezes and spews out clouds of dust. Somehow though, through the melee, a couple of tones do manage to escape.

The Tombstone Jay immediately breaks out of its circling pattern and goes into a dive straight at you! At the last moment before collision, the crazy bird releases the yellow object and breaks out of the dive. The yellow object is true to its mark and smashes into the accordion, destroying the instrument on the spot. As the bird flies away to the north, it is apparent that the Tombstone Jay is overly critical of accordion music.
action: You look around
response: Platform, On the Derrick
You are on a narrow platform at the very top of the oil derrick. The platform is spotted with a number of bird droppings. The view from here is mostly obstructed by trees, but you can make out the hill with the mine to the west.
action: You examine the yellow
response: The yellow oily balm has a pungent smell reminiscent of burning rubber.
action: Go downward
response: The path winds through thick bramble to a secluded clearing. In the middle of the clearing is a tall wooden derrick. Various debris is scattered around the derrick, including a bent-up green and white sign.

You can see a small rock here.
action: You take the rock
response: Taken.
action: You look at rock
response: The bright yellow rock is nearly perfectly spherical and has a number of letters uniformly spaced on the surface.
action: You examine the letters
response: The black lettering is quite worn, but you can just make out: "TEDROTANO"
action: You check what you're carrying
response: You are carrying:
a small rock
a lantern (providing light)
a gold locket (being worn and closed)
a stick
a sticky (lightly chewed) square of gum base
a green note
a silver spoon
an iron bar
a cube of sugar
a tin (which is open)
some balm
a pitchfork
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a cauldron
a match
a crumpled note
a leather-bound book
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots (being worn)
a sharp knife
action: Rub locket
response: George looks around quickly and says, "Where in the hell did that woman go?"
A tingling sensation runs up your spine and you feel a little lighter on your feet.

You are invisible.
action: You take the brass key
response: Like a thief in the night, you take the key from George's belt.
Taken.

You are invisible.
action: You go east
response: The whole valley is revealed to you as you approach the summit. To the east, you see the largely decaying town of Deadeye Gulch, and just further, the small knoll known as Boot Hill. To the south, the dusty valley floor unfolds, divided by a small tree-lined creek. Large snowy mountains abut the hill to the north while endless badlands reach out seemingly forever to the west. The main trail continues around the hill to the west and down to the southwest, whereas a faint side trail heads towards the crest to the north.

You are invisible.
action: You go to the south-west
response: A rather tall hill sprouts out of the landscape here, casting a deep shadow to the east. A well-traveled path leads up the hill to the northeast and a grassy trail leads off to the southeast. There is a sign lying in the dirt.

You are invisible.
action: You go northwest
response: You can't go that way.

You are invisible.
action: You go southeast
response: The trail continues east-west here, but two side trails duck away up to the northwest and down to the southwest somewhat forming a fork.

You are invisible.
action: You go east
response: The east-west trail here is lined by scraggly sycamore trees that look more dead than alive. Even the few birds' nests tucked away in the upper branches look poorly constructed and uninhabitable.

You are invisible.
action: You go to the east
response: Most of the buildings on this end of town have given up the ghost and are but piles of broken lumber, tarpaper and other debris. One structure, to the north, seems to have fared considerably better than its neighbor to the south. The street narrows to the west where it appears to pick up a trail leading out of town. Back to the east is the center of town.

You are invisible.
action: You go to the east
response: You are at the east end of Deadeye Gulch on a street which is thick with dried grass and weeds. The remains of hitching posts and water troughs line the crumbling wooden sidewalks. Most of the buildings here have collapsed from aging timbers and a few appear as if they were burned down to their foundations. A couple of structures, however, have withstood the elements. To the north, there is a bank judging from the declaration as to such in the windows. To the south, there is a saloon.

You are invisible.
action: You go to the east
response: You are at the outskirts of what you would guess is a small town. Tumbleweeds and debris litter the trail giving all appearances that this place is deserted. The majority of buildings and other structures are to the west while a large barn-like building is due north. There is a faded sign just off to the side of the trail.

You are invisible.
action: Go south
response: The trail here turns to fine dust with only a trace of vegetation. The wind is howling from the west, blowing dust, sand, and tumbleweeds everywhere. A brief respite in the blowing debris allows you to see the trail continuing north and an overgrown path going up to the east.

You are invisible.
action: You go south
response: A set of well-worn railroad tracks crosses the north-south trail here. The wooden ties have all but disintegrated and the rails are thick with bright red rust. The weed ridden-tracks run east-west.

There is a rusted old handcar on the track spur.

You are invisible.
action: You get on the car
response: You get into the handcar.

You are starting to return to your normal opaqueness.
action: Continue
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

Broken Bridge (in the handcar)
The railroad tracks once crossed a deep gorge here, but the trestled bridge has long past seen its last train. The gaping hole in the middle of the bridge along with the highly questionable structural stability of the trestles themselves make further progress east unthinkable.

You are starting to return to your normal opaqueness.

Suddenly, you feel a little heavier on your feet.
action: Keep going
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

...and you quickly stop it before falling into the gorge.
action: You unlock the strongbox with the brass key
response: You unlock the metal strongbox.
action: You open it
response: You open the metal strongbox, revealing a stick of dynamite.
action: You drop the brass key
response: Dropped.
action: You put the tnt on the pile
response: You find a good-sized space between the rocks and insert the dynamite.
action: Light TNT with the lantern
response: This dangerous act would achieve little.
action: Light match
response: You strike the match on a convenient surface and it flares to life.
action: Light fuse
response: In true Douglas Adams fashion, you attempt to light the nonexistent fuse, which results in a nonexistent explosion. This is not entirely bad since the explosion would have resulted in mortal wounds which would have required you, the player, to have to 'restore' from your previous 'save' position. Now, as far as I remember, there is not one single fuse available in the story, so I wouldn't waste too much time trying to find one.
action: You examine the tnt
response: The stick of dynamite is about ten inches long and an inch in diameter. An oily yellowish fluid oozes out of small cracks along the surface and out of a small hole in one end of the stick.

The match has gone out.
action: You look at tnt
response: The stick of dynamite is about ten inches long and an inch in diameter. An oily yellowish fluid oozes out of small cracks along the surface and out of a small hole in one end of the stick.
action: You examine the fluid
response: The fluid is somewhat sticky and produces a light sulfur smell.
action: Light fluid
response: This dangerous act would achieve little.
action: Smell fluid
response: Yup, it's smells like sulfur.
action: You look at accordion
response: The small accordion is quite dusty and of the twelve button variety. The bellows are cracked and three of the keys are missing. All in all, the old squeezebox is not much more than a piece of junk.
action: You go to the east
response: The path winds through thick bramble to a secluded clearing. In the middle of the clearing is a tall wooden derrick. Various debris is scattered around the derrick, including a bent-up green and white sign.

You can see an accordion here.
action: Go up
response: The structure seems to have stiffened up a bit, permitting further exploration.

Platform, On the Derrick
You are on a narrow platform at the very top of the oil derrick. The platform is spotted with a number of bird droppings. The view from here is mostly obstructed by trees, but you can make out the hill with the mine to the west.
action: Go downward
response: Just Off the Ground, On the Derrick
action: Go east
response: There is a Tombstone Jay here standing on top of the grave marker.
action: You give the corn to Jay
response: The Tombstone Jay quickly gobbles down the corn.
action: Go upward
response: The structure seems to have stiffened up a bit, permitting further exploration.

About Half Way Up, On the Derrick

You can see a nail here.
action: Go upwards
response: The structure seems to have stiffened up a bit, permitting further exploration.

Almost to the Top, On the Derrick
action: Go up
response: The structure seems to have stiffened up a bit, permitting further exploration.

Platform, On the Derrick

You can see an accordion here.

High overhead, a Tombstone Jay circles the derrick with a bright yellow object grasped in its talons.
action: You take the accordion
response: Taken.

High overhead, a Tombstone Jay circles the derrick with a bright yellow object grasped in its talons.
action: You play it
response: The old accordion honks, wheezes and spews out clouds of dust. Somehow though, through the melee, a couple of tones do manage to escape.

The Tombstone Jay immediately breaks out of its circling pattern and goes into a dive straight at you! At the last moment before collision, the crazy bird releases the yellow object and breaks out of the dive. The yellow object is true to its mark and smashes into the accordion, destroying the instrument on the spot. As the bird flies away to the north, it is apparent that the Tombstone Jay is overly critical of accordion music.
action: Go down
response: Almost to the Top, On the Derrick
action: Go downwards
response: About Half Way Up, On the Derrick

You can see a nail here.
action: You go downwards
response: You can see a small rock here.
action: Go west
response: George is here staring at the charred remains of his gum factory.

There is a brass key hanging on George's belt.

You can also see a burned sketch here.
action: Rub locket
response: George looks around quickly and says, "Where in the hell did that woman go?"
A tingling sensation runs up your spine and you feel a little lighter on your feet.

You are invisible.
action: You take the key
response: Like a thief in the night, you take the key from George's belt.
Taken.

You are invisible.
action: You go east
response: You are invisible.
action: Rub locket
response: Nothing seems to happen.

You are invisible.
action: You go to the south
response: There is a rusted old handcar on the track spur.

You are starting to return to your normal opaqueness.
action: You get on the car
response: You get into the handcar.

You are starting to return to your normal opaqueness.

Suddenly, you feel a little heavier on your feet.
action: You keep going
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

Narrow Ravine (in the handcar)

The tracks through the ravine are littered with rattlesnakes.
action: Continue
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

Numerous snakes strike at the wheels of the handcar.

End of the Line (in the handcar)

On the peg is a ship wheel.
action: Leave
response: You get out of the handcar.

There is a rusted old handcar on the track spur.

On the peg is a ship wheel.
action: You go south
response: You can see a metal strongbox (which is closed) here.
action: Go north
response: There is a rusted old handcar on the track spur.

On the peg is a ship wheel.
action: Continue
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

Broken Track (in the handcar)
The tracks here look to be in good shape despite the shifting sand.
action: Continue
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

Track Crossing (in the handcar)
action: Keep going
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

Train Track (in the handcar)
action: You keep going
response: (the handle)
The handcar slowly begins to move...

Broken Bridge (in the handcar)
action: Go outside
response: You get out of the handcar.

There is a rusted old handcar on the track spur.
action: You examine the pile
response: There is stick of dynamite stuck between a couple of rocks in the pile.
action: You put the rock in the tnt
response: (the small rock in the stick of dynamite)
That can't contain things.
action: You put the rock in the small hole
response: (the small rock in the hole)
The hole is too small for that.
action: You look at the cloth
response: The white material is soaked with water and limp as a rag.
action: You put the match in the stick
response: (the stick of dynamite)
You need to be holding the match before you can put it into something else.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a match
a small rock
a lantern (providing light)
a gold locket (being worn and closed)
a stick
a sticky (lightly chewed) square of gum base
a green note
a silver spoon
an iron bar
a cube of sugar
a tin (which is open)
some balm
a pitchfork
a pan
some brown slurry
a rusted oil can
a candle
a cauldron
a crumpled note
a leather-bound book
a shovel
a piece of gauzy cloth
a soiled note
a pair of old cowboy boots (being worn)
a sharp knife
action: You throw the lantern at the tnt
response: The lantern misses its mark by a mile and bounces harmlessly off the rocks.
action: You throw the candle at the tnt
response: The candle misses its mark by a mile and bounces harmlessly off the rocks.
action: Smell rock
response: (the pile of rocks)
You smell nothing unexpected.
action: You cut the tnt with the knife
response: Cutting that up would achieve little.
action: You throw the yellow rock at tnt
response: As soon as the small rock leaves your hand, it pauses in midair as if sensing its target. The rock slowly maneuvers from side to side and then propels itself in a flash toward its intended target.

The rock hits the dynamite on the mark causing a sizable explosion, sending rocks hither and yon. Through the settling dust you can make out a tunnel leading into the stone wall.

A rather dusty and perturbed bear wanders out of the tunnel, sits down, and rubs his ears.

The bear pulls out a copy of Reader's Digest and looks around for some woods.
action: Go west
response: The bear snarls at you and displays his huge greenish fangs. Perhaps the bear doesn't like visitors in his home.

The bear raises his nose and sniffs the air.
action: Rub locket
response: A tingling sensation runs up your spine and you feel a little lighter on your feet.

The bear pulls out a copy of Reader's Digest and looks around for some woods.

You are invisible.
action: Go west
response: Under a curtain of invisibility, you gingerly sneak past the brown bear. The bear startles and angrily smells the air but doesn't strike.

You wander into the tunnel to find a light at the other end through some brambles and thicket. Progressing through the thicket, you find yourself in bright sunshine, but perhaps a little lighter for the effort. Also, your brown friend seems to have followed you.
Dry Streambed
Water hasn't found its way down this rocky streambed for years by the looks of all the weeds and wildflowers growing between the rocks. A grove of gatewood trees with thick underbrush prevents any further progress west. There is a tunnel to the east with thick bramble at the entrance, and the path heading north along the streambed.

You can see a brown bear here.

The bear pulls out a copy of Reader's Digest and looks around for some woods.
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying:
a gold locket (being worn and closed)

The bear attempts to sharpen his claws on the ground.
action: You go to the north
response: Progress up the stream bed is slow due to the large rocks and tall weeds. A large gatewood tree has fallen here and is well along its return to the elements. The path follows the streambed to the south and continues north to a small structure.
action: You examine the tree
response: This gatewood must have stood thirty feet tall when it was alive. It looks like heavy winds might have uprooted the massive trunk and nature looks well on its way towards reclamation.
action: Go north
response: The streambed turn east here and vanishes into the thick bushes and weeds. To the west is an old run-down shack which looks several years past its prime. There is a hitching post just outside the door.

There is a horse here tied to the hitching post.

On the horse are a blanket and a pair of saddlebags (which is closed).
action: You look at the horse
response: The horse is solid brown with a white marking on his forehead and has a considerable sway in his back. From the looks of it, the horse is long overdue for a little care or a quick trip to the glue factory.
action: You examine blanket
response: This is your typical brown horse blanket made of coarse wool.
action: You look at the saddlebags
response: The two leather saddlebags are quite plain and are draped over the horse's back. On one bag, the word "BLIZZARD" is scrawled into the leather; on the other, "BEETLEBAUM."
action: Open bags
response: The horse moves away from you and swishes his tail angrily.
action: Pet horse
response: That will hardly improve your situation.
action: You say Beetlebaum
response: "Beetlebaum!"
action: You go to the west
response: The "Biscuit Residence" would hardly constitute a walk-in closet by your standards, but what it lacks in size is more than made up for by the charming decor of splintered wood, dense cobwebs, and the occasional trail of mouse droppings. There is a small wood stove nestled in one of the corners, whereas in the opposite corner is a couple of bedrolls, saddles and other supplies. There are a table and a couple of chairs in the center of the room. In front of the stove, you can just make out a good-sized rectangular cutout in the wood floor.

Sitting at the table are two rugged-looking gnomish cowboys playing cards.
The Biscuit Brothers don't take kindly to visitors and, in the blink of an eye, have you strung up to the nearest tree.
action: Go south
response: Water hasn't found its way down this rocky streambed for years by the looks of all the weeds and wildflowers growing between the rocks. A grove of gatewood trees with thick underbrush prevents any further progress west. There is a tunnel to the east with thick bramble at the entrance, and the path heading north along the streambed.

You can see a brown bear here.

The bear rubs his ears and shakes his head.
action: You examine the bear
response: The bear is quite large even for the brown variety. He doesn't look that happy about the disturbance you have caused and keeps rubbing his ears with his giant paws.

The bear rubs his behind against the stone wall.
action: You go to the west
response: You can head east to the tunnel or north along the streambed.

The bear growls a little and then breaks out in a yawn.
action: Rub locket
response: A tingling sensation runs up your spine and you feel a little lighter on your feet.

You are invisible.
action: Open bags
response: The horse, sensing something amiss, moves away and swishes his tail angrily.

You are invisible.
action: Go west
response: The "Biscuit Residence" would hardly constitute a walk-in closet by your standards, but what it lacks in size is more than made up for by the charming decor of splintered wood, dense cobwebs, and the occasional trail of mouse droppings. There is a small wood stove nestled in one of the corners, whereas in the opposite corner is a couple of bedrolls, saddles and other supplies. There are a table and a couple of chairs in the center of the room. In front of the stove, you can just make out a good-sized rectangular cutout in the wood floor.

Sitting at the table are two rugged-looking gnomish cowboys playing cards.

You are invisible.
action: You go downwards
response: Unless you're a termite, it isn't in the cards.

"Come on Frank, deal the damn cards!"

You are invisible.
action: You open the cutout
response: That's not something you can open.

"I'll bet two bits if that ain't too rich for ya!"

You are invisible.
action: You hit Frank
response: Let's examine the odds first. The Biscuit Brothers have four loaded guns and you haven't a prayer. Doesn't seem like the odds are in your favor in any sense of the word.

"You ain't got nothin' so I's raisen' ya two bits, Jim boy!"

You are invisible.
action: You examine Frank
response: The Biscuit brothers are nothing to write home about. Frank, the bigger of the two, has a long sandy beard and dark inset eyes. James looks years younger than Frank, is clean-shaven, and has thick jet black hair. Neither of the brothers are much over 4 feet tall, but the huge guns they are carrying seem to make up for this disadvantage.

"I call. We done sure did scare ol' George there didn't we!"

You are invisible.
action: You examine table
response: The table is your basic piece of wood with four legs and looks like it has been repaired dozens of times.

"He don't need no horse anyway. Give me two cards there Frank."

You are invisible.
action: You look at the floor
response: You see nothing special about the floor.

"Burnin' down his old shack is goin' to make him pretty ornery I reckon. Dealer takes three."

You are invisible.
action: You describe your surroundings
response: The "Biscuit Residence" would hardly constitute a walk-in closet by your standards, but what it lacks in size is more than made up for by the charming decor of splintered wood, dense cobwebs, and the occasional trail of mouse droppings. There is a small wood stove nestled in one of the corners, whereas in the opposite corner is a couple of bedrolls, saddles and other supplies. There are a table and a couple of chairs in the center of the room. In front of the stove, you can just make out a good-sized rectangular cutout in the wood floor.

Sitting at the table are two rugged-looking gnomish cowboys playing cards.

"I'll bet ya two buck-a-bins on this winner."

You are invisible.
action: You look at the stove
response: The coal-black stove is made from cast iron, has a grille on the front, and a flat surface on top for cooking. A flue runs from the back of the stove up through the roof.

"You know I ain't got that kind of money, ya old fart!"

You are invisible.
action: Close flue
response: That's not something you can close.

"Well, how 'bout that ol' watch you come across?"

You are invisible.
action: You examine the flue
response: The flue is about 4 inches in diameter and has numerous dents and scratches. About halfway up the flue, there is a lever.

"Hell, why not. I ain't wearin' no woman's watch and there ain't enough gold in it to sell. Hell, I'll even throw in this old apple to sweeten up the pot." Frank puts the watch and an apple on the table.

You are starting to return to your normal opaqueness.
action: Go east
response: The streambed turn east here and vanishes into the thick bushes and weeds. To the west is an old run-down shack which looks several years past its prime. There is a hitching post just outside the door.

There is a horse here tied to the hitching post.

On the horse are a blanket and a pair of saddlebags (which is closed).

You are starting to return to your normal opaqueness.
action: You wait a while
response: Time passes.

You are starting to return to your normal opaqueness.

Suddenly, you feel a little heavier on your feet.
action: Go west
response: The "Biscuit Residence" would hardly constitute a walk-in closet by your standards, but what it lacks in size is more than made up for by the charming decor of splintered wood, dense cobwebs, and the occasional trail of mouse droppings. There is a small wood stove nestled in one of the corners, whereas in the opposite corner is a couple of bedrolls, saddles and other supplies. There are a table and a couple of chairs in the center of the room. In front of the stove, you can just make out a good-sized rectangular cutout in the wood floor.

Sitting at the table are two rugged-looking gnomish cowboys playing cards.

You can also see a green apple and a gold watch here.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

You are invisible.
action: You pull the lever
response: The lever moves effortlessly, and more important, quietly. You close the flue.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

Dark smoke starts to pour out of the front grille.

You are invisible.
action: Wait
response: Time passes.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

Dark smoke is starting to fill the room!

Both Biscuit brothers jump up from the table and rush towards the stove. James quickly opens the flue damper and the smoke starts to dissipate.

"Damn stove is startin' to act up Frank. Teach ya to steal cheap junk. HA! Let's get back to cards. I'm feelin lucky!"

Both cowboys return to the table and resume their card game.

You are invisible.
action: You examine the grille
response: Dark smoke pours out of the grille. The fire behind the grille appears to be struggling.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

Dark smoke is starting to fill the room!

Both Biscuit brothers jump up from the table and rush towards the stove. James quickly opens the flue damper and the smoke starts to dissipate.

"Damn stove is startin' to act up Frank. Teach ya to steal cheap junk. HA! Let's get back to cards. I'm feelin lucky!"

Both cowboys return to the table and resume their card game.

You are invisible.
action: You take the apple
response: Startled by the apple's take to flight, the Biscuit brothers draw their guns and start shooting every which way. Although Frank takes a bullet in the leg and James one in the arm, the majority of bullets seem to have zeroed right in on you.
action: You examine the flue
response: The flue is about 4 inches in diameter and has numerous dents and scratches. About halfway up the flue, there is a lever.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

You are invisible.
action: You examine the fire
response: Through the vertical slats of the grille you can make out a good size fire burning in the stove.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

You are invisible.
action: You break it
response: Violence isn't the answer to this one.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

Dark smoke is starting to fill the room!

Both Biscuit brothers jump up from the table and rush towards the stove. James quickly opens the flue damper and the smoke starts to dissipate.

"Damn stove is startin' to act up Frank. Teach ya to steal cheap junk. HA! Let's get back to cards. I'm feelin lucky!"

Both cowboys return to the table and resume their card game.

You are invisible.
action: You examine the cutout
response: The cutout is about 2 feet square and has a wooden cover.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

You are invisible.
action: You open the cover
response: You manage to quietly slide the cover over a few feet, exposing an opening down into the floor.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

You are invisible.
action: You pull the lever
response: The lever moves effortlessly, and more important, quietly. You close the flue.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

Dark smoke starts to pour out of the front grille.

You are starting to return to your normal opaqueness.
action: You wait
response: Time passes.

You are starting to return to your normal opaqueness.
action: You wait a while
response: Time passes.

You are starting to return to your normal opaqueness.

Suddenly, you feel a little heavier on your feet.
action: You examine cover
response: The wooden cover has two hand-sized indentations.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

Dark smoke is starting to fill the room!

Both Biscuit brothers jump up from the table and rush towards the stove. Frank quickly notices the open cutout and jumps over it, as does his brother. James quickly opens the flue damper and the smoke starts to dissipate.

"How in the hell did that happen, Frank?"

"Don't reckon I know, Jim, but sumpin isn't right here."

"Well, let's get back to cards."

Frank moves the cover back over the cutout and the two cowboys resume their card game.

You are invisible.
action: Go east
response: The streambed turn east here and vanishes into the thick bushes and weeds. To the west is an old run-down shack which looks several years past its prime. There is a hitching post just outside the door.

There is a horse here tied to the hitching post.

On the horse are a blanket and a pair of saddlebags (which is closed).

You are invisible.
action: You take the blanket
response: The horse looks relieved to have the blanket removed from his back.

Taken.

You are invisible.
action: You put the blanket on the opening
response: You carefully cover the opening with the horse blanket.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

You are invisible.
action: Wait
response: Time passes.

The two cowboys talk quietly as they continue the game.

Dark smoke is starting to fill the room!

Both Biscuit brothers jump up from the table and rush towards the stove. Frank is the first to find your trap, as the blanket quickly gives way permitting an immediate plunge into the cellar. James, following quickly, also takes the deep plunge and even manages to destroy the ladder during his fall. The Biscuit brothers are trapped.

You are invisible.
action: You take the apple
response: Taken.

(from the cellar)
"Ruins the whole day, doesn't it Frank?"

The smoke in here is so thick you can hardly breathe!

You are invisible.

Taken.

(from the cellar)
"Who in the hell is goin to get us out of here?!"

The smoke seems to be clearing a bit.

You are starting to return to your normal opaqueness.
action: You go east
response: The streambed turn east here and vanishes into the thick bushes and weeds. To the west is an old run-down shack which looks several years past its prime. There is a hitching post just outside the door.

There is a horse here tied to the hitching post.

On the horse is a pair of saddlebags (which is closed).

You are starting to return to your normal opaqueness.

Suddenly, you feel a little heavier on your feet.
action: You give the apple to the horse
response: The horse devours the green apple.
action: You ride the horse
response: How do you propose to do that from where you are standing?
action: You get on the horse
response: Outside Old Shack (on the horse)
The streambed turn east here and vanishes into the thick bushes and weeds. To the west is an old run-down shack which looks several years past its prime. There is a hitching post just outside the door.

On the horse you can see a pair of saddlebags (which is closed).

You pull yourself onto the horse.
action: You untie the horse
response: How can you do that while sitting on the horse?
action: You stand
response: You get off the horse.

The streambed turn east here and vanishes into the thick bushes and weeds. To the west is an old run-down shack which looks several years past its prime. There is a hitching post just outside the door.

There is a horse here tied to the hitching post.

On the horse is a pair of saddlebags (which is closed).
action: You untie the horse
response: You untie the horse from the rail.
action: You ride the horse
response: The horse just shakes his head and starts to doze off.
action: Beetlebaum
response: "Beetlebaum!"
action: Blizzard
response: Beetlebaum races off through the brush at breakneck speed, stripping you of all your possessions. The landscape flies by as the old horse seeks the shelter of George's shack so as not to have to brave the oncoming blizzard. Following nearly invisible trails, the horse breaks out of the brush onto the main trail. Without hesitation, the horse continues north along the trail across Clear Creek and then northeast toward Blind Canyon.

As the horse makes the last turn into the canyon, Beetlebaum startles at the sight of something up ahead on the trail. At this point, you and the horse go your own separate ways. Beetlebaum falls to the ground, quickly regains his footing, and continues his journey north to shelter. You, on the other hand, fly through air with the greatest of ease until falling face first onto the dusty trail.

As you get up and take inventory of your faculties, you feel something cold against your head and hear the click of a gun's hammer.

The trail winds its way from the southwest through a shadowy canyon formed in the cleft of two large hills. You cannot help but feel confined and vulnerable by the sheer walls of this gorge and the limited visibility in front of you and behind. The trail continues to the north.

You can see Black Thad McGee here.

"Well, what do we have here? Huh, little missy? Seems like you and me have some unfinished business."

Thad puts the pistol back into the holster.
action: Go north
response: "Don't be runnin off there missy. I've done shot more than a few in the back."

"Yuh see now, you kinda spoiled my shootin' with your little tricks. Yuh know, it's pretty damn hard for an old guy like me tuh make a livin' without a good shootin' hand. But I learned. Yah, I learned to use muh other hand. Sure the boys laughed a spell 'bout it, but I done showed 'em just like I is goin' to show yuh.
action: You kick Thad
response: Violence isn't the answer to this one.

"Yuh know, I waited quite a spell for this day. Yuh see, no one could figure what happened to yuh. But I waited. Yup, I knew we'd cross paths again. And here we both be. Me with muh guns, yous with nothin. Sounds pretty fair to me!"
action: Beetlebaum
response: "Well, 'nuff of this jawin'. Better say your prayers missy!"

As soon as you blurt it out, echoes of "Beetlebaum" fill the canyon.
action: Beetlebaum
response: Black Thad pulls out a pistol from his holster.

The sound of a galloping horse fills the canyon!
action: Beetlebaum
response: Black Thad carefully checks the gun for bullets.

Black Thad's eyes turn big as saucers as he spots the daunting sight of George and Beetlebaum racing down the trail at full gallop. Beetlebaum's eyes are filled with rage, his nose flared, and thick white foam spews from his mouth. Just as Beetlebaum lowers his head for a full charge, George screams out in an earsplitting yell, "HERE COMES BEETLEBAUM!"

Black Thad, out of reflex, goes for his right gun first to shoot the charging horse. His thumbless hand fumbles the gun around and then drops it to the ground. In an instant, but an instant too late, he goes for his other gun with his good hand. Beetlebaum, with his ears back, plows into Black Thad like a freight train. Black Thad is launched into the air from the collision and slams into the canyon wall. What life may have been left in Black Thad is certainly concluded by the ensuing rockslide.

After the dust clears a little, George stares at you for a moment and says, "I just knew you'd be the one to clean up around these parts. Heck, when I tricked ol' Frank into goin' above to rile yuh up, I could just feel it in mah bones. Beetlebaum, get yer miserable hide over here!"

As Beetlebaum saunters over, still wet with sweat, George opens the saddlebag and takes out a blue gumball and hands it to you. "Go on, get on home! I don't take to no good-byes from no woman." George pauses, and then breaks out in a big smile and chortles, "Ah heck, ya done good. Hell, ya done great. I's can't thank ya enough fer helpin' out. Let's get some grub and get ya on yer way."

After a pleasant meal of beans and jerky, you say your good-byes to the old cowboy. Following a long hug and a quick peck on the cheek, you finally partake of the blue gum. Quicker than an instant, you find yourself.... On the Floor

You are lying on the floor staring at the ceiling. Your head feels surprisingly good considering your previous antics. In fact, you feel quite refreshed from your hiatus from consciousness.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying:
a gold watch (being worn)
action: Examine watch
response: The dainty wristwatch is made from 18kt gold and shines like the sun.
action: You stand
response: As you get to your feet, you begin to realize that you must have really had a good whack to the head. Dismissing the previous events as a bad dream, you continue your routine and get ready to start dinner.

It isn't until some time later that evening that you discover an odd gold locket and a note under your pillow.

The note reads:
"Thank you ma'am for all your help on getting things settled around Deadeye. With the Biscuit Brothers and Black Thad out of the way, people are startin to move back towards town. There's even talk about reopenin the mine and maybe drillin some more wells. Beetlebaum is feelin spry as a colt, and hell, I may even rebuild the ol Gumball Factory.

Thanks again for yer help and I hope the locket comes in handy from time to time.

(signed) George & Beetlebaum
action: P.
response: N = next subject                                                  P = RETURN = read subject                                          Q = re sume game
There is information available on the following:

Who are George and Beetlebaum?
About Various Objects and Places in the Game
Scoring
Things to Try
> And Finally...
action: You go north
response: N = next subject                                                  P = RETURN = read subject                                          Q = re sume game
There is information available on the following:

> Who are George and Beetlebaum?
About Various Objects and Places in the Game
Scoring
Things to Try
And Finally...
action: You go north
response: N = next subject                                                  P = RETURN = read subject                                          Q = re sume game
There is information available on the following:

Who are George and Beetlebaum?
> About Various Objects and Places in the Game
Scoring
Things to Try
And Finally...
1. The House
The house depicted is the house we currently live in. As this game was originally written for my wife, I wanted her not to get too lost to start with. This portion of the game was my experimenting with Inform and I decided to leave it in after several revisions. Incidentally, my wife has never played the game.

2. Gold Watch
The gold watch was a Christmas present I gave my wife. Since she was the protagonist in the experimental version, it was the only motivation I could contrive at the time.

3. Deadeye Gulch
The buildings and so forth in Deadeye Gulch are a combination of my recollections of Deadwood, South Dakota and Virginia City, Montana. The rosewood bar in the Saloon is based on the "Silver Dollar" in Miles City, Montana.

4. Chokecherry Bushes
Chokecherry bushes are a staple of the Montana landscape. The small black berries are somewhat tart and are especially good when canned.

5. Willow Tree
The willow tree in the story was based on a willow tree across the street from where I grew up. The tree was in Fred Dorn's yard at the time, and was recently cut down since it was dying from old age.

6. Trystanium & Tombstone Jay
Trystanium is named after and based on my nephew Tristan. The Tombstone Jay is named after my nephew TJ. Both are great kids who helped test the game along with their dad, who is "John Bro" in the story.

7. Gold Nugget
The gold panning bit was based on my brother's attempt to make his fortune when we were on vacation in Deadwood years ago. For the record, he did manage to find a few flakes.

8. Slot Machine
The slot machine puzzle is based on a 5th grade homework problem provided by one of my co-workers. We spent a lot of time fooling around with this puzzle at the office.

9. Tombstone
The tombstone at Boot Hill is based on a tombstone found on a small island at Canyon Ferry, Montana.

10. Clear Creek
Clear Creek is a little stream that runs across my uncle's farm in Montana. In addition to many other adventures, this is where I had my first introduction to a rattlesnake.

N = next subject                                                  P = RETURN = read subject                                          Q = re sume game
There is information available on the following:

Who are George and Beetlebaum?
> About Various Objects and Places in the Game
Scoring
Things to Try
And Finally...
action: You go north
response: N = next subject                                                  P = RETURN = read subject                                          Q = re sume game
There is information available on the following:

Who are George and Beetlebaum?
About Various Objects and Places in the Game
> Scoring
Things to Try
And Finally...
The scoring for this shindig goes as follows:

Getting lost gum                          5 pts
Opening safe                              5 pts
Turning over the pencil sketch           10 pts
Opening Master Bedroom closet             5 pts
Entering Clearing                        15 pts

Cleaning table                            5 pts
Unlocking Livery door                    10 pts
Getting square tin                        5 pts
Reading crumpled note                     5 pts
Taking cowboy boots                       5 pts
Getting the small rock                    5 pts
Making orange gumball                    10 pts
Making coin                               5 pts
Finding whiskey bottle                   10 pts
Getting derringer                         5 pts
Shooting Black Thad                      10 pts
Getting iron bar                          5 pts
Entering Beaver Dam                      10 pts
Sharpening knife                          5 pts
Cutting willow branch                     5 pts
Removing locket from hole                10 pts
Entering Cactus Patch                     5 pts
Opening Mine Entrance                     5 pts
Answering first riddle                    5 pts
Answering second riddle                   5 pts
Taking Trystanium                        10 pts
Putting Tryst in locket                   5 pts
Taking brass key                          5 pts
Finding handcar                           5 pts
Oiling handcar                            5 pts
Getting past rattlesnakes                10 pts
Opening sod shack door                   10 pts
Removing pile of rocks                    5 pts
Entering Dry Stream Bed                   5 pts

Obtaining gold watch                     20 pts
Feeding horse (Beetlebaum)                5 pts
Riding Beetlebaum                        15 pts
Winning showdown at Blind Canyon         30 pts

350 pts

N = next subject                                                  P = RETURN = read subject                                          Q = re sume game
There is information available on the following:

Who are George and Beetlebaum?
About Various Objects and Places in the Game
> Scoring
Things to Try
And Finally...
action: You go to the north
response: N = next subject                                                  P = RETURN = read subject                                          Q = re sume game
There is information available on the following:

Who are George and Beetlebaum?
About Various Objects and Places in the Game
Scoring
> Things to Try
And Finally...
Have you tried:

Drinking the water on the bathroom floor?
Swimming at the Beaver Dam?
Cutting two branches off of the willow tree?
Interacting with the rattlesnakes?
Kissing Black Thad at the Saloon?
Throwing the dynamite at stuff?
Looking under the table in the vault?
Following the Road to Herringville?
Taking the Black Rod?
Mapping the Mine?

N = next subject                                                  P = RETURN = read subject                                          Q = re sume game
There is information available on the following:

Who are George and Beetlebaum?
About Various Objects and Places in the Game
Scoring
> Things to Try
And Finally...
action: You go to the north
response: N = next subject                                                  P = RETURN = read subject                                          Q = re sume game
There is information available on the following:

Who are George and Beetlebaum?
About Various Objects and Places in the Game
Scoring
Things to Try
> And Finally...
This game was for me the ultimate adventure in just trying to put it together and complete it. It took the better part of 18 months to write. Having really no programming experience of this nature, even the simplest things seemed to take forever. The feedback I have received on the game has been well beyond anything I could have imagined. I would like to thank each of you folks who took a moment and dropped me a note. It made the whole project worthwhile.

Next on the list, no game would be complete without recognizing the pioneering work of Willie Crowther and Don Woods. The original Adventure was nothing short of amazing to me when I played it on a XEROX Sigma 7 about 20 years ago. I didn't finish the game until the early 80's on my C64. What a thrill!

Of course, the folks at Infocom really cut the cake for me. The thrill of getting a disk drive for my C64 and Zork I on the same day was nothing short of orgasmic. Getting so much entertainment into 80k of memory is truly one of the major accomplishments of the computer age. My favorite game to this day is Enchanter.

And speaking of thrills, the day I found the interactive community out on the Net was nothing short of a religious experience. So many good folks with a common interest. I thank you all for keeping the art alive.

Last of all, I'd like to thank my brother. He introduced me to Adventure and we played pretty much most of the I-F games together, although geographically never in the same place. And, accordingly, this game is dedicated to him.

And finally, long live George and Beetlebaum!

N = next subject                                                  P = RETURN = read subject                                          Q = re sume game
There is information available on the following:

Who are George and Beetlebaum?
About Various Objects and Places in the Game
Scoring
Things to Try
> And Finally...