The Outlaw Gazette

"Humble Beginnings"

The start of something new?

The Outlaw Gazette is a new publication organized with the purpose of providing entertainment and information to the criminals of "this thing of ours". Coming from the streets of Seattle and shipping across the nation from Los Angeles to New York. This will be managed by John Marston from Ballard with the hopes of finding support from others out there who wish to see well written and produced news. It will be written and printed at a small encampment found in the outskirts of Seattle until enough revenue is earned to move operations to a larger and well built establishment that can support the papers needs. 

There have been many attempts over the years to create and establish a strong presence in the streets through writing and publishing newspapers. Some have lasted for quite a bit of time while others failed miserably. This attempt comes with no promise of success or promise that it will appeal to all those who pick up a copy, but the promise of a good attempt that will continue with a decent enough reception from the public. Hopefully this newspaper will not only be a creation of my own, but eventually become a way for others to get their own information out there. This newspaper will be welcoming to all who wish to use it as a mode of transporting information to the rest of the criminal underworld. 

The criminal underworld is no different than those living the normal civilian life when it comes to the need and want to consume information as well as entertainment. Mafioso and other criminal elements across the nation need that part of their daily lives to be filled in some way whether there are stories, events, or the not so common newspaper that floats around here or there over the past few years. That is why this newspaper is being written. There is no guarantee of success in the newspaper business, but why not give it a go?

Author

JohnMarston

"FBN: Friend of Foe?"

Are they really who we think they are?

The FBN Agents have always looked the other way when it comes to activities in the narcotics business. Usually anyone who has the money to cozy up to these fellows can also get away with a plethora of other crimes and avoid any lengthy stints in jail. The real question is whether or not they're truly a friend to the criminal element or just a leach off of their success. Let's discuss.

Pros:

Now, many criminals would never see the financial success and stability that they have if it were not for all the drugs shipments the FBN agents raided in order to hand over some of the product to their contacts in the criminal underworld. A smart man can make millions and millions throughout a month long period if they truly know what they are doing with their product. There is a lot of logistics involved of where to buy and sell drugs as well as whether or not it is just better to hold on a bit longer for that top market price. 

They are also quite helpful in keeping people out of jail. You don't want to spend a long stint in jail or prison at any point. That sort of event can cause you to lose out on money, opportunities, and important events. Now, you may get the shit kicked out of you prior to actually getting out of jail which isn't ideal. At least you don't have to worry about Bubba if you had to stay in there overnight or for any longer period of time. 

Cons:

As 'devil's advocate' which is important for this sort of opinion piece, I will take a moment to counter those two points. It all comes down to greed and the want for quick cash for those crooked FBN agents. Obviously things get a bit too dangerous for them to just take the drugs and also unload them for the profit. This is where the criminal element comes into play for these so-called 'friends' in the FBN. They give you the drugs and all the real risk involved in a drug deal. You have to make sure that you don't get caught by the law or that the person you're dealing with doesn't double cross you. 

As for keeping you out of jail, well that is just another factor in their greed. They aren't going to be able to make any money off of you if you're unable to unload the product they give you. So they're want to keep you out of jail is just to keep that money in their pockets and also make sure that their name isn't rolling off your tongue while behind bars. 

Another con of these bastards is they'll turn on you real quick if you take out one of their own. They won't hesitate to forget about all that money you're making them in order to get revenge for a killing or attempted killing. There have been plenty of respectable men and women who have found themselves surrounded by the FBN and gunned down for making this mistake. You can't ever think the money is worth more to them than the respect of their badges. 

Final Thoughts:

At the end of the day, the FBN is what it is. A corrupt organization that is no different than the criminals they hunt besides the fact that the government gives them the authority to exist. They have rules to what they can and cannot do, while always trying to earn a quick buck even if it goes a bit outside the rules. They'll kill those who betray their trust and reward those that can earn them plenty of cash. 

Although, who am I kidding? Nobody is going to say no to the millions that are to be made just because the FBN can be a bit shady at times. There ain't no telling when you're time will be up and you need to make plenty before that time arrives.

Author

JohnMarston

Page 1 

Entertainment Section

"Poem's Old and New"

This Week's Theme: Remembering The Great War

(Editor's Note: These two Poems were written by famous poets and writers. There work is being used here out of appreciation for what they created.)

Dreamers

by Siegfried Sassoon

"Soldiers are citizens of death's grey land,

Drawing no dividen from time's to-morrows.

In the great hour of destiny they stand,

Each with his feuds, and jealousies, and sorrows.

Soldiers are sworn to action; they must win

Some flaming, fatal climax with their lives.

Soldiers are dreamers; when the guns begin

They think of firelit homes, clean beds and wives.

 

I see them in foul dug-outs, gnawed by rats,

And in the ruined trenches, lashed with rain,

Dreaming of things they did with balls and bats,

And mocked by hopeless longing to regain

Bank holidays, and picture shows, and spats,

And going to the office in the train."

 

The Anxious Dead

by John McCrae

"O guns, fall silent till the dead men hear

Above their heads the legions pressing on:

These fought their fight in time of bitter fear,

And died not knowing how the day had gone.

 

O flashing muzzles, pause, and let them see

The coming dawn that streaks the sky afar;

Then let your might chorus witness be

To them, and Caesar, that we still make war

 

Tell them, O guns, that we have heard their call,

That we have sworn, and will not turn aside,

That we will onward till we win or fall,

That we will keep the faither for which they died.

Bid them be patient, and some day, anon,

They shall feel earth enwrapt in silence deep;

Shall greet, in wonderment, the quiet dawn,

And in content may turn them to their sleep."

 

Editorial Comments: The Great War and the future.

The Great War cannot and will not be forgotten by this generation and the one before it. We are still surrounded by those who fought in the war and those who lost loved ones to that war. Those were dark years for the world whether it was the war or the Spanish Influenza outbreak which devastated the world hand in hand with one another. Leaders of this world will hope to see that something like it never happens again and that peace will reign supreme on the world stage. 

Although war can be great business for any criminal organization when it comes to guns and all sorts of smuggling, it can lead to plenty of individuals leaving for war and never coming back. The United States is quite the powerhouse nation now and that means strength and power for the US Criminal as well. Plenty of markets across the world that need filling and plenty of organizations to do so here in America. Prohibition definitely helps keep plenty of criminals happy with the bootlegging business as we no longer need to ship too many guns or too much supplies across the world for battle.

"Short Story of the Week: The Distance Traveled"

The sun was setting and we continued to march along with no true idea of where our destination was. Fate was most likely not shining on us that day as we made our way past countless buildings and trees. Eventually open roads were all that we saw with a forest or lake to be viewed at a distance. There was still some hope left in the group from earlier in the day when they first awoke and began their journey. Eventually the darkness overtook them and the only option was to rest....

Once again the marching began again the next morning, the fear of failure was clearly setting in for most of the group. How could this not succeed with all who had joined together to make it a reality? Perhaps they had chosen the wrong direction or possibly their information was incorrect. Either way, things were not looking good for them and morale would quickly deplete if something did not go their way soon. 

If somebody stumbled or fell, the others were their to help them no matter what. There was a bond and an unspoken pact among them that was truly the only thing that kept them going. They would see this through even if it got them into more trouble than it was worth. How could they not?

Their feet began to hurt, their stomachs began to grumble, and they could barely feel their faces with the cold wind's constant assault. Almost all hope was lost when they finally spotted a light in the distance. "Could it be?" was a thought that must have been running through all of their minds. Were they almost there? Was this journey going to be a success? Was it just all an illusion created by their tired minds?

Doubt sank in as they slowly approached the light off in the distance...

As they finally got within a good distance of the light they saw a small building with a wooden sign sitting at the end of the road leading up to it. The group quickly as they could made their way to the sign. One of them lit a match from a booklet they brought from home in order to provide enough light to read what it said....

"Martha's Baked Goods: Home made and fresh"

The children looked back at one another with huge smiles upon their faces as they had all read the sign more than once just to make sure they weren't reading it incorrectly. The journey was going to be a success and their stomachs would stop grumbling at them. Although their parents may be angry for the little disappearing act, it would be worth it to have some delicious apple pie.

Author

JohnMarston

Page 2

Advertisements

"Writers Wanted!"

The Outlaw Gazette is currently on the lookout for writers whether they are skilled or just highly motivated when it comes to their work. Whether you can write new stories, short stories, poems, or complete an impressive interview. Maybe you think this newspaper is missing something and you could add just that special 'something' to make it all complete.

If you are interested in such a position with the Outlaw Gazette then please send all applications to John Marston. Review period for any and all applications will be quite quick to get you out there working and writing immediately!

Apply Here!

Business Advertisements:

The Pioneer Saloon, Seattle.

This old looking wooden building is home to quite the selection of alcohol, poker games, and bar fights. They're happy to serve anyone and everyone, but that doesn't mean the people around you will be just as happy about your presence. Keep your wits about you as you spend time at this saloon as you might just end up in a brawl or with a gun pointed at ya.

Moonlight in Seattle Club, Seattle.

A beautifully designed night club that is the highlight of Seattle night life. If you're ever stopping over in the rainy west coast city of Seattle, you may as well stop in here to enjoy your night. It doesn't get much better than Moonlight in Seattle. 

Thunder Plaza, Los Angeles.

Newly opened and biggest mall in Los Angeles. Hosting this years Christmas event! Come shop till you drop and have a jolly good time.

Angel's Bar, Los Angeles.

A bar that caters mostly upper middle class and upper-class customers, both from the mafia world and civilians. So if you want to dine or drink with the Angel's then this is the place to be.

Long Beach Port, Los Angeles. 

If you're looking to ship your products elsewhere during your criminal dealings on the west coast then this is the place to go. The port is always the best place to ship items from, but it's always best to do this from some place that is owned and operated by somebody who understands the criminal underworld rather than somebody who may have loose lips.

Chambers of Commerce, Las Vegas. 

Flexx-Mitchell is in charge of the Chambers of Commerce over in the city of Las Vegas. Make sure to stop by if you're in need of their services.

Mitchell Distribution, Las Vegas.

Some mobsters have everything they need in order to get their business done. Sometimes they do not and that is where Mitchell Distribution comes in to play. If you've got product and need to get it elsewhere across the city or possibly country using a reliable distribution network then this is the place to go to.

The Disco of Angels, Detroit.

A huge disco with a circular design. As soon as you enter the building you have to open the huge door with the picture of a man and woman making out before you can see the main part. It hosts many events throughout the entire year.

NY Money Laundering Services, New York.

The criminal enterprises of this world tend to need somewhere for you to 'clean' your money. You don't want to get picked up by the law because you didn't take the time to just clean that cash up a bit. So if you're ever doing business on the east coast and need this sort of service then visit NY Money Laundering Services.

If you're looking to get your business advertised to the masses through this newspaper then just get in touch with John Marston. All advertisements are free, but any donations to the paper are welcome to help support further issues. 

All that is needed for any advertisements is the Business Name, Location, and a short description letting the reader know what to expect if they visit.

Page 3 

Interview with William Walker

The bar was closed down for the interview as John had requested of the owner along with a small payment to help make sure it didn't hurt his business to do so for one evening. It was a good setting for the interview with William Walker since he was so involved in the alcohol business and John knew that this bar had some in stock. The waitress came over and poured him a glass specially made by The Walker Brand. He sipped on it while he flipped through his notes....

Eventually the front door opened as one of his men showed William in. They knew each other well, but this was a different sort of setting for the two as John was preparing to do his first ever interview for his new paper project. They both knew to keep it professional for the readers and they could have some laughs later on afterward. 

William came over and took a seat across from John....

He looked across at his former associate, "So, Mr. Walker who are you exactly? To put it another way, what do you wish people to know about the man who is in charge of 'The Walker Brand'? Unless you deem yourself a man of mystery."

William grabbed a glass of brown from the waitress, and took a drag from his cigarette...

"Well, I'm the only son of a very successful agronomist whose fortune and inheritance I was stripped from by the organization he created. I had to resort to a life of crime to make the ends meet for myself. And while it all started as just a temporary occupation, this lifestyle became so profitable that I decided to make a career out of it." He paused to sip on his drink.

"I've made a good deal of considerate friendships which I hold in great esteem, the basis of which are respect, tolerance and competence." He finished off his answer.

"So what is the 'Walker Brand'? What does it stand for in your own opinion? I know the alcohol business is very profitable these days. Is it partly your background as the son of a agronomist that made you get into such a business? I know it's not exactly the same, but you are creating something using what you have at your disposal from nature." John pushed for a bit more information after hearing the intriguing bit about William's father.

"It is quite profitable, I think everyone can agree. America is not ready to be dried just yet. The Walker Brand... Is a multi-purpose organization that operates with culture, wood-working and a great deal of many other smaller enterprises. To the law that is. Our investments to the city have been well gratified. But we sell booze, yeah? We produce it, bottle it, and arrange to export the liquor to mexico with the Canadian authorities. Then they end up being found in the speakeasies in Seattle. That's pretty well known." His focus on his answers was clear as he rubbed his chin.

"I can't share all the inner-details on how this company came to be, but the Walker Brand came out of a need. There was an open market demanding goods which weren't easy to come by at the time we started, coming out of the city and racketeering distilleries up north wasn't easy to begin with, but we all knew the rewards were going to be considerable. The mob family of Seattle gave us an opportunity we can only wish to repay with the most competence we can muster."

The waitress came over and placed a cigar on the table for John. He gladly picked it up and lit it so that he could take a few puffs....

Waiting for John to finish so he could continue, "As for my late father's occupation... I hadn't considered that much. But I think that the loyalty he had towards his responsibilities and his loved-ones were a lot more determining influences towards getting me to where I am right now. Of course, his passion for the natural world was definitely imbued into my own mind, if not genetically, at least philosophically, and I find myself visiting our distilleries just for the pleasure of seeing the balance of things on the work."

"I think all in all, the brand stands for competence and friendship. We came out of the Outlaws that you're still running with efficacy Mr Marston, as tough professionals. Well beaten and adapted to withstand the most inclement times. We're prospering, but we haven't forgotten how the cold bites yet."

John nodded as he listened, "That's quite the answer Mr. Walker. Some people on an interview won't say enough, some say way too much, and some like yourself say just enough to keep it intriguing and within the lines of what they're allowed to share."

"Thanks you," William smirked to his friend while sipping on his glass. 

"I think that's quite the business model you have put together. It seems to keep your business stretched across multiple countries as well as involved in more than just alcohol. That makes it quite difficult for any one agency to come after you if they wished to shut you down. Now that myself and the readers understand more about yourself and 'The Walker Brand', what do you hope the future holds for you and the people who work for you?" John thought the interview was going quite well as he continued his line of questioning.

"I hope for challenge, and I fear stagnancy the most. It's well known by now that this dry season will not last forever, and our group is still rather young. We're hoping to grow past a certain threshold before this senseless law ends, and we need to adapt ourselves into new venues. We can't forget that we're part of a crime family. Most of which are headed by very strong and ruthless mafiosi. Profits are quintessential if we are to remain in a strong position, but that position only exists because the members are there to represent the family. So our biggest concern is inner growth, and finding the right associates for the brand should provide a decent challenge while pushing back against the tyranny of stagnancy."

Thinking back to something John had mentioned, "As you well noted, legal agencies will find a harder time every passing day to shut us down with the rate we've been rooting ourselves, but there are two sides of power at play. The mafiosi care about family above all else, and we must be sure that our small family grows as well, or face the discontent of our true bosses."

"I have to agree with that. Stagnancy can be quite the enemy of progress especially in our line of work. So I commend you on wanting to combat such a problem. So, one of my only other questions has to do with your right hand man over at The Walker Brand."

John checked his notes real quick...

"Luckies, I think is what people refer to him as. He seems to be quite the character, so what made you choose such a man to partner up with you on this operation? Most leaders in this life don't take that decision lightly."

William's raised his eyebrows and lets a smirk draw on his face.

"Benito is quite the old wolf. He can be a little... Eccentric at times, but we find his energy to be his best trait. I met him in one of his business runs through Seattle, and we stroke a like-mindedness that has only grown with time. He can probably see a good deal from a mile away, and he loves a good deal like sharks love blood. His experience and propensity to thinking outside of the norm was probably the first reason why I had him for a close associate, but his loyalty was the determining factor in why I proposed the right-hand position to him." Another drag on his cigarette as he thought about his time so far working with Luckies.

"He is yet to fault in offering the best of himself to the group, and his creative genius really make him the biggest enemy of stagnant work-environments." Williams chuckled, "Now I only wish he would stop offering bottles like they're easy bread to make"

John laughed along with William at the thought of Luckies handing out all those damn bottles...

"Well, I have to say that you are quite the thorough man Mr. Walker. You've got a talented man at your side to help you along the way in your progress in building The Walker Brand. You also seem to have quite the grasp on the alcohol business. Everything I've learned today along with our readers definitely points towards what I believe should be a successful and impressive future. I believe that is all I had in my notes to ask you about. Some things you covered without me even having to ask about it. Which makes my job much easier, so it's no complaint."

John stood up from his seat after finishing off his drink.

"Maybe we'll have a chat again for a later issue of the paper." John extended his hand to shake William's hand.

William stood up and nodded with content, offering a firm handshake to John.

"It was a productive conversation, I appreciate that. Content is happiness, yes?"

"Couldn't agree more, Mr. Walker." John smiled at his good friend.

Interviewer

JohnMarston

Page 4

Continuing the News

"Obituaries."

Boss Richard - Dead

In a surprising turn of events, a Crew Leader of Seattle was gunned down by a rogue in the middle of the night. The rogue was quickly dispatched by those who could respond quickly in order to avenge the death or Richard and avoid any further casualties. 

It was a sad day to lose a fellow leader here in Seattle and I hope that Richard is doing some of his odd dances up on his tilted tower in heaven or wherever he may have ended up. Rest in Peace Richard.

Don Cary_Grant - Retired

The biggest news of today will obviously be the retirement of Cary Grant over in Chicago as he leaves for the old country to take a much needed vacation. It is always something that shakes up the criminal underworld when they see the retirement of any leader or member that has been working for such a long time. Although I did not know Cary personally, I do wish him the best in his retirement! If you want to see any further information on the subject and what happened in Chicago then you just need to look at the streets here.

If there is ever a death in your city or somewhere across the country which affects you, then feel free to write in to John Marston about it if you'd like a personalized obituary to be placed in the paper. This is done free of charge and will be done happily to help you through those sad times.

"Expansion and Growth"

"Continuing the criminal enterprises..."

There hasn't been too many changes in the criminal underworld recently, although continued growth or expansion has been seen over the past week or two. This is one of the most important things for each city head to look at as business develops in their cities and across the nation. There are a few that I will highlight below that have happened recently. Overall, it is always a good thing to see mobsters stepping up and taking over new crews. 

The worst thing we can see is cities that stop attempting to grow if they've not yet reached a large operational size. Obviously once a city becomes large enough they are in no rush to continually authorize members to set up. At the end of the day, no matter if it is your city or another it will be good for overall business across the country to see another crew setting up. 

Los Angeles

The city of Angels has been rebuilding for quite a bit of time now as things slowly fell into place. Sabrina along with those around her have been working quite hard to build up what they have no matter the set backs or road blocks they may have faced at any time. All city heads know that it isn't always easy and sometimes things don't go your way. But things are now coming together nicely for the small, but promising city.

Maurice- over in Los Angeles finally took over the mantle of Godfather in Pasadena after some time working to plan and organize the district in order to assist Sabrina in her continued development of the city. The Outlaw Gazette congratulates you on this rank as not many achieve it. 

TomRhodes was the choice to set up underneath Maurice- in Pasadena as he set up Abuser's Avenue with Gu33 and Mangler at his side. As stated above, it is always good to see continued growth in any city. I'm especially happy to see Los Angeles continue to grow with hard working people such as Tom and Maurice-. 

Chicago

Under the leadership of the Dogfather Rubix the city of Chicago has been growing slowly, but surely. With a wag of his tail or the raising of his paw things get done. There is a lot of potential in that city as Dogfather Rubix continues to sit in the drivers seat no matter what any human tells him about the need for opposable thumbs.

Obviously with the departure of Cary_Grant to the old country to begin his retirement, the city was clearly in need of a replacement to take over the rains of South Side. Well I believe after some play time and a good nap, Rubix along with Cary had come to the decisions to authorize CassandraVilmont to set up operations. Never the best circumstances to have to set up after another bites the dust or takes off to the old country, but The Outlaw Gazette wishes you all the best of luck.

Author

JohnMarston

Page 5

Final Thoughts

Plenty of effort went into the creation of this newspaper's first edition by myself with the hope of increasing staff over time. As described above in the advertisement's section, the newspaper will be looking for anyone who would like to contribute to it's creation in the way of writing or conducting interviews. Although supporting the newspaper with either words or money will also help over time with the increasing development of 'The Outlaw Gazette'.

If anyone finds issue with anything I've written then I am of course happy to take that into account moving forward. If ever there is something you'd like advertised or believe would make a welcome addition to this paper then that sort of commentary is welcome as well. No changes to this paper moving forward can be promised or guaranteed, but as a paper for the masses it will be something we always consider with every decision made. 

Thank you for your time!

 

~ JohnMarston

Page 6 

I picked up a copy of The Outlaw Gazette as soon as it came to the streets, thinking it'd be light reading over coffee. I sat down at my favorite diner, near the Walker headquarters, ordered a cup of joe and some eggs and picked up the newspaper from the booth's bench.

As soon as my eyes met the paper, I knew I was in for a good read. I started devouring the narrative with a hungry mind, reading about topics that both interested and allured me, being stimulated in a way that the Seattle Herald could never before.

Newspapers these days covered a lot of things, but never something I could directly relate to. Now this, this was something I cared about deeply, questions I weighted every day. "Is that FBN Agent really worth bribing?" or "What can I do once I visit CH?". These things mattered to me more than any new blockbuster or construction down state.

There were also some relevant data from our own world. New leaders rise and old leaders go. The duality of fortunes perplexed me and reminded me to appreciate every day. It saddened me to see some go, yet cheered me up to see known faces take up jobs they have been deserving for a while.

The cultural area also leaves me thirsty for more. It plays on both sides of the blade of our life above the law and the life of the average citizen. The hardships we find and the hardships they find are not as different, despite the incredible difference between the risk and the reward both lifestyles have. How we both embrace existence is truly baffling, and a very welcome dose of reality into the lavish lifestyle I've been having.

Is this an interview with WilliamWalker !? He didn't tell me anything! I'm astonished! Oh, and it talks about me! Eccentric? That just sounds like a fancy word for weird. But he knows me well, he knows I'm a sucker for fancy words. I'll need to make sure some more of those golden label bottles come my way, as revenge for this.

I might just have something published in the paper. I'll need to contact JohnMarston. I have all sorts of ideas bubbling up, after reading all those books. Now, I need to eat. Jesus, how long have I been reading for?

For fuck's sake, my eggs are cold... God damn it, where's that waiter?

"Just amazing..." Cassandra muttered to herself as she held the newest issue of The Outlaw Gazette in her hands. Makes sure to grab a few more copies for the family. 

She finds Nikolai back at the HQ and slaps the newspaper on his desk in an excited manner. "Take a break, dear. Should also have a read of that. The short story in there is real nice. I'm craving apple pie now because of it. I'll shout us some lunch. Come on." 

There is a moment of silence before she walks out of his office again and searches for Scofield, only to find him pressed up against a wall by one of the working girls. Cassandra shook her head and let out a frustrated sigh. She patiently waited for the two of them to finish up, before clearing her throat. "Quick lunch break?" She announced across the hall, showing him the newspaper she picked up from her travels. 

Later on, she sent some kind words John's way - in a telegram. 

TO: JOHN MARSTON

From the offices of SODOM, 

Consigliere John, so proud of the newspaper you just put out. Saw it on my way back to the family headquarters. Was very excited to show to the family. I appreciate the efforts you put in, and the research taken to provide quality content. Seriously, I love it. I'm hoping for more of these. Keep it coming. You're doing awesome. 

I'll be reaching out again, if not today then sometime this week - about the business advertisements. I'm definitely considering having my brothel business up on there once renovations are finished.

Sending my best wishes! Always.

FROM: MADAM VILMONT

💋

Third pocket. It's usually the third pocket that Tom checks that he finds his pack of Lucky Strikes. One time he found them first pat. He still thinks back to that day fondly. The world had been tucked away from its worrisome state for Tom. A blast of china white to the first vein to the surface had seen to it that today was such a perfect- the type that keeps you hangin' on. When Tom heard the paperboy say Outlaw Gazette on the corner of a shadier street, near Abuser's Avenue, he tossed the paperboy a couple of bucks. 

When he was handed the paper, Tom noticed the pack of Luckies still in hand. A flick of his wrist had three butts hanging out the top part of his soft pack. Tom chose the one closest to taking a dive to the ground. The rest were stowed away back into a pocket he'd soon forget. "Thanks and all that." He brushed off the paperboy as he looked for his matches. The unlit cigarette stayed put in his mouth as he began to read.

Tom never found those matches. Instead, he fumbled around for them unable to look up from the paper as he walked down the road. He couldn't help it. Tom was in another world, one that was ruled by effort and the almighty typewriter. The paper that JohnMarston  had put together was something spectacular. So much so, Tom never saw the car that nearly took his life zip by him inches from his heels as he stepped on the curb. 

By the time he was ready to toss the paper in the trash, Tom just couldn't let himself do it. Instead, he tucked it under his arm intent to pass it off to the first person he saw back on Abuser's Avenue. Only two pockets and matches were found on his second search.