Page 285 of Rangers Unexpected Return

"Were they?"

Doris smiled.

"No."

"The paper records stayed here until the library archive was moved into the courthouse basement."

Judy's eyes widened.

"The archives."

Sheriff Tate stood so fast his chair slid backward.

"They're still there."

"I signed the transfer myself."

Hope.

For the first time all night...

Real hope.

Then Judy reached for the cassette.

"I think Emily still has something to tell us."

Doris quietly crossed the room.

From the top shelf she lifted an old cassette player.

"I told Nora she'd regret throwing this away."

Nora laughed.

"I never throw anything away."

"You told me to."

"I’m glad you kept it."

Even through everything...

A few smiles appeared.

Judy slid the tape into the player.

The machine clicked.

The reels slowly began to turn.

Static crackled through the speakers.

Then...

A young woman's nervous voice filled the room.

"My name is Emily Ross."