“The sun is shining, the air is cool. I can have a carriage out front in five minutes,” Buck cooed, his moustache dancing with anticipation. Inez completely ignored the resident lady’s man as she deposited the mugs of beer. Shaking her head, she spun on her heels and headed back to the bar.

Buck sighed happily, watching the swing of her hips as she left.

“My dear Mr. Wilmington, your stubborn refusal to ‘take the hint’ as it were, is positively painful!” Ezra proclaimed, reaching for his beer.

“Ezra, you haven’t seen the Wilmington charm at work.”

Ezra smiled. “I have seen enough to know that boars will take flight before Inez agrees to go for a carriage ride with you.”

Buck tore his eyes from the lovely proprietoress. “Now, Ezra, that almost sounds like a challenge. And I do love a challenge.”

Ezra’s gold tooth flashed in the light. The pair were seated in the relatively empty saloon. Josiah and Nathan were out at the reservation - several of Kojay‘s braves had been wounded in a squabble with one of the neighbouring ranchers. Vin and Chris were out of town somewhere and J.D. was visiting Casey, which left Standish and Wilmington in town to keep an eye on things. “If you are willing to place a wager on your success, please do not allow me to stand in your way.

“Alright. Ten dollars,” Buck announced, slapping one dollar into the middle of the table.

Erza‘s eyebrows drew down. “I know it is frightfully early in the morning and my ability to discern certain things is not at its best before midday, but is that not ’one’ dollar? I may be mistaken, but I was certain the wager was ten?”

“Only got one, but I ain’t got nothing to worry about,” Buck cried, leaning back in his chair with confidence.

“I see. And should your animal magnetism fail you?“

“I’ll do your patrol on Saturday.”

“The money, or patrol, is in the proverbial bag.”

“Not so quick, Ezra.”

“There is a proviso?”

“A what?”

“Are you intending to set some sort of condition on which the bet is to be contingent?”

Buck smiled, his eyes directed toward a small man who had entered the saloon. Ezra followed his companion’s gaze. The gambler’s poker face flickered with thought. What did Jonathan Chester have to do with it? Chester had arrived in town at the beginning of the week. A professional photographer. Many of Four Corners’ citizens had been enticed by his claims of providing them with ‘immortality’ and had fallen all over themselves to book in for a sitting. Actually, it had been quite amusing. People dressing up in their Sunday finest and posing for the camera.

“Mr Wilmington?”

“I tell you what, Ez, let’s make it a two way bet. I have to get Inez to go on a picnic with me and you have to...” Buck bounced his eyebrows.

“Please, Mr. Wilmington. I have neither the time nor the inclination to partake in a childish guessing game.”

“You have to get the boys to have their picture taken.”

Ezra’s right eyebrow ached, his lightning fast mind zapping over the odds. Convincing Josiah and J.D. would be easy. Nathan could be persuaded. Chris... hmmm. Maybe. Vin Tanner? Not likely!

“The bet is iniquitous and unbalanced. You are merely to convince one person and I five.”

Buck smiled, lifting both boots up onto the table and crossing his legs with an air of triumphant. “Really only comes down two though, doesn’t it.”

“Mr. Larabee’s cooperation, while being a challenge to obtain, should not be unachievable,” Ezra stated, shoving Buck’s feet off the table.

“Yeah, but Vin...”

“Is likely to be problematic,” Ezra murmured, dusting his hands off as if he had just touched something distasteful.

“More like damn impossible!” Buck was grinning from ear to ear. He honestly thought he had Ezra right where he wanted him.

Ezra pursed his lips. The thought of such a dare truly did appeal to him. Things had been quiet lately. The Seven’s reputation had reached far and wide. People of ill-character took themselves to other towns. Needless to say, Four Corners was flourishing... which was why Vin and Chris were spending more and more time out of town.

“What do you say?” Buck asked, offering his hand.

The gambler eyed it. “One photograph of the seven of us?”

“Yep.”

“And you agree to be in it if I can convince everyone else?” Buck grinned mischievously. That was going to be his backup plan, but clearly Ezra was too shrewd to let that slip by him.

“If you can get Vin and Chris to pose for a picture, I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Still Ezra pondered the proposal. “’Course, if you don’t think you’re up to the challenge...” Buck baited.

“Mr. Wilmington, never try to out-con an experienced gambler. It doesn’t work.”

“Well?” Buck asked, re-proffering his hand. Ezra took a deep breath and finally sealed the agreement with a handshake.

At that moment, Vin and Chris walked in and made their way across to their companion’s table. Both men were dusty from riding the trail back from Larabee’s cabin.

“Boys,” Vin greeted.

“Was just talking about you two,” Buck chuckled. Ezra kicked the grinning man under the table.

Larabee glanced from Buck to Ezra. “Why does that worry me?”

“Wondered why the hair was standin’ up on the back of my neck,” Vin chuckled.

“What are you two up to?”

Vin jabbed Larabee in the ribs and inclined his head toward two locals who had just entered the saloon in their finest regalia. “Two more popinjays gettin’ their pictures taken,” Vin muttered, shaking his head. “Ain’t never heard of anythin’ more stupid in my whole life than gettin’ a photograph of yourself! What sort of fool would actually get‘ emselves all dressed up like a peacock and then pose like a stuffed rabbit all so he can get a bit of paper that has his own picture on it!”

“Oh, I don’t know, Mr. Tanner. Someone may wish to preserve your image for prosperity. According to Mr. Chester, It‘s like an immortality.”

“Immortality bullshit. Any bastard tryin‘ to take a picture of me will end up with a bullet up their ass!” the tracker muttered.

Buck Wilmington exploded with laughter. Ezra gave the other man a look of such abhorrence that had looks the ability to kill, Buck would have been struck down right where he sat.

**********

“The answer’s no,” Nathan stated, glancing up as Ezra entered the clinic.

“I beg your pardon? I was not aware I had posed a question.”

“Whatever it is, the answer’s still no, Ezra. I’ve seen that look before. I ain’t investing in anything. I ain’t betting on anything. I ain’t supporting anything. I ain’t sponsoring anything. I ain’t donating to anything.”

“Well, I guess that covers just about everything.”

Nathan frowned. Ezra was still smiling. “What do you want, Ezra?”

“It is not I, but Judge Travis.”

“Oh?”

“Yes, I have just received word from him and it seems he is having trouble convincing his peers that Four Corners is in safe hands.” Ezra paused gauging Nathan’s response. “He has asked me to obtain proof that he does in fact have seven peace keepers here in Four Corners. I had simply come to ask your advice. How do you think we could assist the Judge to convince these Neanderthals that we exist?”

Nathan’s eyes narrowed. The fact that Ezra had not immediately seen the obvious answer caused the healer’s suspicions to swell.

“I, myself,” Ezra went on, “thought that perhaps a group photograph may be the answer. What do you say?”

Nathan shrugged. “I suppose.”

“If I were to arrange it, would you be agreeable to having your image captured?”

A smile creased Nathan’s lips. “Have you asked Vin or Chris yet?”

“No. I thought I would proffer the idea to you first and measure your reaction.”

“I haven’t got any problem with it, but good luck convincing the others.”

“My friend, I do not believe in luck.” With that, Ezra tipped his hat and exited the clinic. Nathan frowned. Why did he get the feeling he had just been hustled?

**********

“A photograph?” Josiah asked with interest.

“Four Corners will not always be a small town. One day it will be a bustling metropolis and the town’s meagre beginnings will be of interest to her citizens. Whether we like it or not, my friend, we will be an important part of that history and as such it is important that some tangible record of our existence is recorded. So, are you in?”

Josiah considered Ezra’s words. “A photograph?” he repeated.

“As I have said, it is for Mrs. Travis and her committee. I said I was willing to arrange the photograph if the rest of you are willing to participate.”

“A photograph?”

Ezra rolled his eyes. “Yes, a photograph.”

Josiah pursed his lips. “Have you asked Vin or Chris yet?”

“I have yet to speak to our noble leader and evasive tracker.”

Josiah grinned. “Good luck. Yeah, okay. If the others are willing to do it, I guess I am too.”

“Thank you, Mr. Sanchez.” Ezra turned and made his way toward the door of the church.

“Hey, Ezra. What are the odds you’ll convince Vin and Chris to be in this?”

Standish turned and smiled. “The fact that I have agreed to take on this venture means that the ‘odds’ as they were, are in my favour. Good day to you.”

**********

“Really?! All of us together?! That’s great!” J.D. cried. “Can I get one to keep?”

“I can not see why not. So, you are happy to be in the photograph?”

“Yeah, sure. I think it’s a great idea!” The boy’s face changed. “Has Chris agreed to do it?”

“I have yet to ask Mr. Larabee.”

“Do you think he’ll agree?”

“I think I can convince him.”

J.D. nodded, but his brow furrowed further. “I’m not sure Vin will like having his photo taken. You know what he’s like about stuff like that.”

“Have faith, Mr. Dunne. Have faith.”

**********

Buck wandered up to Ezra. The gambler was watching Larabee from afar.

“Hey, Ezra. How’s it going?”

“Mr. Dunne, Mr. Sanchez and Mr. Jackson have all pledged their willingness to participate.”

“Uh huh. How about Chris?”

“I am just about to go and ask him.”

Buck grinned. “This I gotta see.”

Ezra flashed the scoundrel a look of condemnation and then strode across the street to where Larabee was seated surveying the town. “Mr. Larabee.”

Chris nodded.

“My friend, I am on a mission of good will. As you know, Jonathan Chester has been visiting our town and many of our fair citizens have...”

“I know about the bet,” Larabee stated, a smirk appearing on his face.

“Oh?” Ezra asked innocently.

“Buck offered me five dollars to say no.”

Standish spun his head sharply. Buck waved happily, a grin of triumph on his face.

“Of all the conceited, double crossing...”

“My answer would have been the same anyway.”

Ezra turned back to the man dressed in black. “Mr. Larabee, while I understand...”

Chris raised his hand to silence the other man. “I’ll tell you what, Ezra, if you can convince Vin, I’ll be in your photograph.” Chris Larabee was smiling from ear to ear. There was no doubt in his mind that Vin Tanner would run a mile before posing for any camera.

“Fair enough, Mr. Larabee. So if I can get Mr. Tanner into the photograph, you will consent to having your picture taken?”

Larabee nodded, still smiling. “Ever heard the expression, when pigs fly?”

Ezra returned the other man’s smile. “I am more partial to ‘it isn’t over until the fat lady sings.’”

“Ezra, Vin will never pose for a picture,” Buck stated, striding up to the pair. “The ten dollars is mine.

“I have a plan,” Ezra argued.

Larabee rose to his feet and patted the gambler’s shoulder before moving off.

“You don’t need a plan, Ezra,” Buck chuckled. “You need a flamin’ miracle.”

**********

Jonathan Chester continued to shake his head. He had never seen anything like it in his entire life. This man in the colourful jacket was darting around the room like a jack rabbit. The other five men were watching him with half smirks, but were following his instructions without argument.

“... No. No, Mr. Jackson, lets have you in the middle at the back... ah, much better. Mr. Wilmington, turn further to the front... excellent. Now, Mr. Dunne, what can we do with you?”

“What’s wrong with where I’m standin’?”

“You look like a post.” Ezra’s brow furrowed with concentration. “Crouch down... Yes! Yes, perfect!”

“There’s just one small problem, Ez, Vin ain’t here,” Buck pointed out, inclining his head toward the gaping hole between himself and Nathan.

“He’s coming,” the gambler stated with confidence.

“Oh?”

“Any minute now.” Ezra confirmed, glancing at the clock.

Chris Larabee grunted. He as not particularly happy about this. He had only agreed to Ezra’s hair-brain scheme because he had been so certain that Vin wouldn’t do it if his life depended on it.

“What did you say to convince Vin?” Josiah asked curiously.

“Mr. Dunne, don’t move.”

“My legs are cramping. Can’t I stand up until Vin gets here?”

“No, timing is imperative. The moment Mr. Tanner arrives we must be ready.”

“Why?” Nathan asked.

“What did you tell Vin?” Buck asked.

Ezra smiled. “Relax, my friends. In a few minutes it will all be over.”

“What did you tell Vin?” Chris growled.

“Well, let’s just say that Mr. Tanner will be somewhat...”

“You haven’t told him, have you?” Buck guessed.

“What exactly did you tell him?” Chris requested, stepping out of his designated position.

“Mr. Larabee, please. You must remain still and be ready.” When Chris failed to comply, Ezra shrugged. “I told him we were collecting here to discuss the rustlers that have been hitting our neighbour's properties.”

“And you think he isn’t going to notice all of this?!” Larabee demanded, inclining his head toward Chester and his equipment. “What do you take Vin for, a fool?!”

“No, of course not. However, if we can ensure he is focused on us, we should have the photo taken before he even knows that it’s happening.”

Larabee was shaking his head.

“I’m not happy about deceiving him,” Nathan called.

“Neither am I,” Chris snarled.

“Look, what harm can it do? All we are...”

All eyes flew in the direction of the door. Vin strode in and nodded a greeting to his companions. Ezra dashed to his side and began to drag him into his position in the back row.

“What the hell is your problem?!” Vin snapped, shoving Ezra off him. Tanner lifted his eyes.

“Okay, hold it!” Chester called.

Vin was noted for his easy-going nature and ambling strides. Today, neither were evident. He cursed loudly and bolted for the door.

“Mr. Tanner! Mr. Tanner, wait! It’s just a simple photograph!” Ezra shouted, racing after his companion. The gambler caught up with his friend on the front steps. “Mr. Tanner, please wait,” Ezra pleaded, stepping in front of the determined tracker.

“Get out of my way, Ezra.” It was low and lethal and left no room for negotiation. Ezra stepped to the side immediately and watched as Vin continued on his way.

“It is just a photograph!”

**********

An hour later, Nathan, Josiah, Buck, Ezra and J.D. were seated in the saloon with drinks in front of them. Chris was leaning against the bar, staring into his whiskey. Vin was notable by his absence.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen that boy move so quickly,” Buck chuckled.

“His reaction is beyond my comprehension. I know Mr. Tanner is a somewhat private man, but... it staggers me.”

“Ezra, Vin is a complex individual. When I was working in India with my father, we came across a tribe that believed that when you had your photograph taken, your spirit was stolen and ended up on the paper. I have heard that some Indians believe that too.”

“Vin’s spent some time with a couple of different tribes of Indians,” Nathan mused.

“You can’t be serious? You aren’t suggesting that Mr. Tanner honestly believes that if his photo is taken, he will lose his soul?!”

“Every man has his own beliefs - superstitions that we allow to dictate our actions.”

“All I wanted was a picture of the seven of us!”

“All you wanted was Buck’s ten dollars,” J.D. giggled.

Ezra shot the boy a look of distaste, rose to his feet and made his way across to the bar. “Mr. Larabee, may I have a word with you?”

Chris glanced up.

“I have a favour to ask of you. Would you please speak to Mr. Tanner and try and convince him to participate in our photograph?”

“Standish, he doesn’t want his picture taken. Drop it.”

“Yes, but... it’s just that...”

“You lost the bet. It‘s over.”

Ezra dropped his head, took a long deep breath, turned and sought a table of his own. Larabee didn’t understand. None of them understood. Ezra wasn’t even sure he understood.

Sitting down, the gambler withdrew a deck of cards and began shuffling them slowly, reflecting on his own reaction. Larabee watched Ezra with interest. This was not a typical Standish reaction in the face of defeat.

Ezra focused on the table in front of him. He heard the chair across from him scrape on the bare wood floor. Larabee pushed a glass across to the other man. “So it isn’t the bet?

Ezra glanced at the drink and then pulled it across in front of himself. “I’m sure I don’t know what you mean. I required a photograph of the seven of us to prevail over Mr. Wilmington. Nothing more.”

Larabee’s head tilted to the side, studying Ezra with apparent fascination.

“Why do you look at me so?”

“Why do you really want it?” Did Ezra have an angle? For some reason, Chris got the feeling that Standish was at a loss.

“I have just explained to you that...” Ezra paused. He could see that his companion was looking straight though his excuse.

Ezra frowned. He had spent his life hiding that part of himself that was truly who he was. He had become so apt at it, it appeared he could now successfully hide from himself. Why did he want this photograph so badly?

“We shall not be together forever,” Ezra stated softly. He wasn’t actually speaking to Chris. He was voicing his inner thoughts. “Sooner or later we will each go our separate ways and I do believe that I will look back on this chapter of my life with some affection. It would have been pleasant to have something tangible to...” Ezra paused, realizing he had an audience. Feeling particularly self-conscious, he picked up the whiskey glass and drained it.

Larabee watched his companion carefully and considered his words. Ezra wanted a photograph of the Seven because he wanted a keepsake - a memory of this time in his life. Standish had spoken little of his past, but Chris got the impression that Ezra had walked his path alone until he had stumbled into Four Corners and signed on to protect the town. The eccentric man in the red jacket was part of something now and that was important to him. Chris realized that it was important to him as well... as much as that surprised him.

Standing, Larabee nodded. He did understand... perhaps better than anyone. “I’ll talk to him.”