Halfway to Magnolia House

Dedication

"The flags of the Confederate States of America were very important and a matter of great pride to those citizens living in the Confederacy. They are also a matter of great pride for their descendants as part of their heritage and history."

- Winston Churchill

"We have to do with the past only as we can make it useful to the present and future."

- Frederick Douglass

"Every human being, of whatever origin, of whatever station, deserves respect. We must each respect others even as we respect ourselves."

- Ulysses S. Grant

Table of Content

Copyright

Dedication

Table of Content

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Author’s Note

About the Author

Other Novels by Anthony

Prologue

The Red River Campaign or Red River Expedition comprised a series of battles fought along the Red River in Louisiana during the American Civil War from March 10 to May 22, 1864. The campaign was a Union initiative, fought between approximately 30,000 Union troops under the command of Major General Nathaniel P. Banks, and Confederate troops under the command of Lieutenant General Richard Taylor, whose strength varied from 6,000 to 15,000.

The campaign was primarily the plan of Union General-in-Chief Henry W. Halleck, and a diversion from Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant’s plan to surround the main Confederate armies by using Banks's Army of the Gulf to capture Mobile, Alabama. It was a Union failure, characterized by poor planning and mismanagement, in which not a single objective was fully accomplished. Taylor successfully defended the Red River Valley with a smaller force. However, the decision of Taylor's immediate superior, General Edmund Kirby Smith to send half of Taylor's force north to Arkansas rather than south in pursuit of the retreating Banks after the Battle of Mansfield and the Battle of Pleasant Hill, led to bitter enmity between Taylor and Kirby Smith.

Used with permission, Wikipedia

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Chapter One

(Hollywood, California, May 10th)

Good morning, Kendrick Reynolds to see Mr. James, said the tall figure, standing before the receptionist desk.

As he waited for her to verify his appointment, he looked around the office, his eyes taking in the movie posters hanging on the walls.

Mr. James will see you now. His office is down the hall, the woman said, pointing to her left. It’s the third door on the right.

Along his way, Kendrick stopped at a poster containing a dramatic image of a Revolutionary War scene and straightened it. The last of the credits at the bottom read: Directed by – Kendrick Reynolds.

Entering the office, Ah-h-h, Kendrick, said the man behind the huge walnut desk as he stood to greet his guest, it has been a long time since I’ve seen you.

They shook hands.

I’d like you to meet Mr. Peters. He introduced Kendrick to the other man standing in the room.

Why don’t we take seats over here? he suggested, pointing to a long table. May I pour you a drink, Kendrick? he asked, before they seated.

No thank you; too early for me. Nice office you have here, Brendan, he said, taking in the plush surroundings before sitting. I was surprised to get a call from you, Brendan. I didn’t think I would hear from you again. I thought maybe you got too big to deal with a little guy like me. I noticed hanging in the hallway the posters of your productions, and only one had my name on it. So, let’s cut the bullshit and you can tell me why I’m here.

You know this is a crazy business, Kendrick, he said, taking his seat next to Mr. Peters on the opposite side of Kendrick. Actors aren’t the only ones typecast for roles. Directors sort of fall into categories too. Your talent is making epic War movies. As you probably noticed, there’s only one poster out there with that theme. But I’m hoping to put your work back on that wall. I know you’ve fallen on hard times, but I think I can help to change that.

I’m listening! he said, drumming his fingers.

Mr. Peters has an interest in making an American Civil War movie and is willing to put out a substantial amount of his own money to do it. You’re the first one I thought of to direct it. I’ll admit I had a helluva time finding you, but here you are.

Kendrick looked straight at Mr. Peters. There have been a lot of Civil War pictures made over the last few years. Why do you think the public would be willing to pay to see another one?

The man sitting across from him leaned forward. Because I believe there are a lot of Civil War enthusiasts who can’t get enough. And, this one will be different. But it doesn’t appear you are convinced, and I’m suddenly wondering if you’re the right man for the job.

Kendrick grinned, I’m the right man if you want a great piece of directing. But it’s not my responsibility to figure out if it’s marketable or not. However, I would like to know why you believe this is going to be different than all the other movies made?

You tell me, Mr. Reynolds. What do you think they all have in common?

Well let’s see … they’re always shot around a significant battlefield, show man’s inhumanity to man, and usually display courage of spirit. Does that sound about right to you?

"Nicely said. And where are the great battlefields, Mr. Reynolds?"

Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia …

"There’s my point. Most of those other movies are shot on the East Coast. The location of my movie will be in Louisiana. Near Alexandria to be specific."

Kendrick laughed. Nothing significant happened down there during the War.

Oh, but I beg to disagree. Southerners know what happened there. And soon everyone else will too. And it wasn’t only land battles either. Did you know in the spring of 1864, a significant Federal Navy force was sent to areas in and around Alexandria?

Kendrick shook his head no.

I didn’t think so, Mr. Peters said. "Neither do a lot of other folks because of all the attention given to the big battles. Let me enlighten you. History books refer to it as the Red River Campaign. The son of President Zachary Taylor defeated Union General Nathaniel Banks with a much smaller force. His son, General Richard Taylor, prevented General Banks from reaching as far north as Shreveport and ultimately forced him to retreat to the Mississippi River. In the end, most of Alexandria was burnt by Union troops. Generals Taylor and Banks lived to write about their experiences. My goal is to educate everyone about this campaign, but I need for this film to be larger-than-life - like that Revolutionary War picture you directed. That’s what I want for my picture. Do you think you have it in you to produce another epic movie?"

Leaning back in his chair, Kendrick contemplated his answer. His head turned toward Brendan. I suppose your production company is going to provide the crew?

Yes. Mr. Peters has hired my company for this production, so I’ll do everything that it takes to make it happen, whether you direct it or not. I’ll be the executive producer and take care of the financial and creative parts to make sure the project goes into production. But the artistic direction of the film will be solely left up to you. I’m putting together an advance team to go down there soon to make notes on what facilities are available and check location shooting spots. The man who will be your assistant director was raised in Alexandria. His name is Preston York, and he’ll be able to provide valuable insight into the region. He’s also a Civil War buff.

Kendrick made a face saying, I don’t know Preston personally, but I hear he’s capable. However, I usually like to choose my own assistant.

I’m sorry, but I’m choosing the crew on this one. What do you say, Kendrick? Ready to change your luck?

After drubbing his fingers on the table a few more seconds, he reached across the table and shook Mr. Peters’ hand. I’ll deliver you a great picture, Mr. Peters. However, I hope you have deep pockets; movies aren’t cheap to make.

Turning to Brendan, he handed him a card. My contact information is on here. Let me know when your advance team is going to Alexandria. I’m going along to take my own notes. As of right now, I’m on your payroll. I’ll stop by your receptionist and leave her my banking information. As this is 2012, my advance on the movie is fifty thousand and I’ll be looking for it soon. You gentlemen have a nice day and keep in touch.

Kendrick left the room. When he was on the other side of the door, he breathed a sigh of relief.

# # #

One week after his meeting with Brendan and Mr. Peters, he received an email itinerary containing the names of the advance team members and his booking information for Hotel Bentley in Alexandria. They were to meet there in seventeen days. The email indicated an extra thousand dollars was included with his advance money so he could make his own travel arrangements to Louisiana.

He immediately checked his bank account on-line and saw that fifty-one thousand dollars had been deposited the previous afternoon. Greatly relieved, he made a call on his cell phone. I got the money! Where do you want to meet? He paused listening to his instructions. All right, but let’s make it two o’clock. I have a few things to do before then.

Kendrick then pulled up an app for maps and driving directions from Los Angeles to Alexandria, Louisiana. He noted it was about twenty-four hours of driving time between the two points. He also noted New Orleans was about two hours further and made his decision.

Next, he booked a hotel room the night of May twenty-seventh in Tucson, Arizona figuring that leaving Los Angeles on a Sunday would be a better traffic decision. He made a reservation for the following night in San Antonio, Texas and noted the nightly rate was higher on that day because it was Memorial Day. The five nights after that he planned to treat himself to a mini vacation at Harrah’s New Orleans before he had to meet the advance party in Alexandria.

Satisfied with his arrangements, he grabbed his keys from the kitchen counter and headed out the door. He thought it might be wise to get the oil changed in his Lexus before he set out on his journey.

# # #

By two o’clock, he was sitting in his favorite chair at Bennie’s and drinking a Heineken when a woman pulled up a chair next to him.

Where is it hotshot?

He pulled an envelope from his left rear pocket and handed it to her.

What’s this? It doesn’t feel like fifteen thousand dollars.

There are two checks in there. Banking laws have restrictions on withdrawing or depositing more than ten thousand dollars on any single given day. That’s so the Feds can dampen money laundering, counterfeiting, or other Federal crimes. I suggest you deposit one today and one tomorrow. Don’t worry, they’re both good.

Yeah, maybe if I cashed them right away! She ordered a Eunice from the bartender.

Kendrick gave her a disgusted look. I know you think I have a problem, but I don’t.

Uh-huh, she said, tucking the envelope into her purse.

The bartender returned with a fluted glass bubbling a pale amber substance.

New drink? asked Kendrick.

She took a sip. Uh-huh. I picked it up on my last trip to St. Louis. A group of girls were sitting around a table drinking these. I liked the name, so I thought I’d try one. It’s a shot of Maker’s Mark in sparkling champagne. Want to try it?

I don’t think so, he said. Thanks for the loan of the money.

If you have any of it remaining, you should be using it to get help. Your gambling problem is what cost us our relationship, she nonchalantly said, raising her glass and taking another sip. We may not be married anymore, but I’d hate to see you ruin your life over it. You should be investing in yourself, Kendrick. With your talent as a director, you should be making movies that get you Academy awards. But all the production houses know you get yourself into trouble, and that’s why they stay away from you.

All that’s changed. That money, he said, nodding toward her purse, is part of an advance I received on a movie deal from Brendan. Apparently, he doesn’t share your concerns.

Uh-huh, she said, raising her glass in a congratulatory salute. So, what is this movie he’s planning?

It’s American Civil War themed. Supposed to be filmed partly on location in central Louisiana.

She gave him a surprised look. You mean the Civil War was fought there too?

That’s the same reaction I had, he said, finishing his beer. But then I did some research. Appears the last battles of the War were fought down there and much into parts of Texas. Anyway, Brendan thought my style of directing could make this an exceedingly good picture. We’ll see.

How about I do a walk on? she suggested, raising her eyebrows as she took another drink.

He laughed. You keep doing what you do best, being a movie critic. I might need your help when all this goes to print.

All right, but please consider what I said and think about what you’re doing to yourself.

Sure, sure, he responded, signaling for another round.

Chapter Two

(New York City, May 19th)

Laura, come back to bed. There can’t be anything out there as interesting as me right now. Trevor lifted the sheets inviting her back to bed.

Disinterested, she gazed out the window at the New York City skyline across from the Jersey side of the Hudson River. Clouds were beginning to encircle the city promising to unleash a downpour. Laura watched as swirls of light clouds intermingled with the darker ones as the approaching storm raced across the water toward her condominium.

It’s a good thing today is Saturday, she said over her shoulder. It’s going to be a soaker in Manhattan.

Come on honey, let’s not waste our time watching clouds when we can be having so much more fun.

From the window, she couldn’t see the entranceway to the Lincoln Tunnel, but instinctively knew that the traffic heading into New York was a fraction of what it was on weekdays.

Moving back to bed, she laid on top of the sheets ignoring Trevor’s invitation, and propped herself up onto the pillows. Trevor, she hesitated, are you going to marry me? We’ve been together for almost seventeen months now. I’m ready to get married, but that seems like an alien concept to you.

You know that I love you Laura, but I’m not ready for that kind of commitment yet. And, may I remind you, you were the one that said you wouldn’t be content to marry until you were with someone at least two years.

A woman says a lot of things she can change her mind about. Besides, that was then, and this is now.

Babe, we both have to be ready to take the next step, or it’s not going to work. I’m afraid you are saying all this now because you are bored with your job, and that’s not a good reason to get married.

He leaned over, grabbed her face with his left hand, and kissed her gently on the cheek. Do you know how cute you are when you pout? I promise we’ll talk serious about this soon.

Then he maneuvered his lips to hers, and she began to respond to his advances. Let’s have a nice weekend together and worry about what comes next at another time, he whispered.

Trevor temporarily succeeded in taking her mind to a different place by firmly caressing her and exploring the recesses of her neck with his lips as rain began to pelt the window.

# # #

Monday morning Laura was awakened by pounding on her apartment door. She rolled over expecting to feel the warm body of Trevor, but instead found his side of the bed empty.

Not a nice way to start off my work week, she thought, pushing herself up onto the pillows. She noticed a note on the nightstand next to her.

The knocking persisted, followed by a slurred, Let me in!

Throwing on a robe, All right, I’m coming, she exchanged with the person on the other side of the door.

Seconds later, she opened her door. Been out all night on another binge, Mr. Gibson? Look, this has got to stop. I’m sorry you and your wife aren’t getting along, but please go pound on your own door, she said, pointing.

I’m so-o-o s-o-r-r-y M-i-s-s W-i-n-g-a-t-e, he slurred as he held onto the doorjamb to keep from falling over. M-a-y I c-o-m-e in?

Certainly not, Mr. Gibson, she said, taking him by an arm and escorting him to his own apartment. As she knocked, she announced, Mrs. Gibson, please open up and take care of your husband.

The telltale click of her neighbor’s lock was followed by the appearance of Gibson’s wife. George, get in here and stop making an ass of yourself, she ordered, grabbing him by his sport coat collar and yanking him inside.

Laura heard a thud. She could only see the back legs of George as he lay on the floor past the partially closed door.

He’ll be all right where he is, Miss Wingate. Sorry he bothered you again.

She immediately shut the door, but Laura could hear Mrs. Gibson mildly chastising her husband who undoubtedly could not hear a word of it.

Returning