DixieDavenport

Not as far as some of the others that were there last year!!! Some were from Irland and Canada!! Dixie

Hey Garrett and those going want to try to plan something out to get to meet each other? I intend to go again! I went to Sperryville in 2003 and to Bristol last year -- had a blast. I'll likely have a heard of teenagers with me! LOL Dixie

Luke may not have been thinking but Mark was. Late that night Luke knew Mark wasn't anymore asleep than he was. He said quietly, "Mark, want to talk about it?" Mark sighed, still looking at the ceiling, "Luke you know I didn't rob any place. I can't see saying I did when I didn't, but, Da--! I don't want to stay here another 10 minutes let alone 10 years. With the evidence pointing dead at me and no way to prove otherwise, would I be a fool to fight this?" Luke turned on his side to look at his friend on the bunk by his, "You are asking ME about being a FOOL?" Luke paused, "Mark, you know the Court system here like I do. Hardcastle has a 'reputation'. The evidence against you looks really bad. Even if it goes to a jury they will all be from around here so they will know you've been in a fight or two, you have been know to race and drive a little crazy, most would probably figure you to have tried your hand at moonrunning a time or two......." Mark said as Luke's thoughts trailed off, "So they'd find me guilty on this because of what they know or suspect about me." Luke just looked at him for several minutes, then shrugged his shoulders, "I'm just saying that it could go that way. Look at your options: One, you can fight this and loose and get 10 years. Two, you could fight it win and walk. Three, take Hardcastle's deal and know that it's likely you'd be home in a year." Luke paused, then continued, "That's your options, now you just have to figure the odds." Mark sighed, "Yeah! But I think you missed an option. The one where I take the deal of 1 to 15 and end up doing the 15." "Yeah! That is something to think on too." replied Luke.

Bo fans check out Cootersplace.com .......... Bo will lbe at DukeFest 05 at bristol Motor Speedway the first weekend in June!! Dixie

As Bo explained to her where the run was going to go, Beth suddenly sat up in bed and exclaimed, "Bo Duke! Have you lost all your senses? I know I'm new to this 'moonshine' stuff but even I know that Sheriff Emmitt "Spike" Lumous of Hitapee County doesn't tolerate moonshine in his County!" Then you're going through Osage County? Bo everybody has heard how dirty Colonel Cassius Clayborne and his chain gang road prisons are. Bo you can't be serious about making this run now? What if you should, God forbid, get caught? What about me and the baby?" Bo put his arms around his very upset young wife, "Beth, Honey. You have known almost from the start of us dating that Luke and me ran moonshine for Uncle Jesse. Why are you so upset now?" Bo gave her a confussed look. Beth had to stop herself and think. Bo was right. She had known about him running moonshine for quiet awhile now. He had told her pretty early in their relationship because she thought he was going to met another girl when he had to take her home early one night. So without Jesse's permission he'd told her the truth, but she had never known the details like she did tonight. It had to be knowing the details, she was thinking as the other thought hit her 'OR it was the being pregnant that was putting her on edge.' Putting her on edge -- that was an understatement -- it was scaring the he-- out of her! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Meanwhile on the front porch, Luke had unfolded a worn map. As he sipped his coffee he studied and restudied every possible route. This map was 'special' Jesse had marked it with years of alternate routes and escape avenues. Luke was in deep concentration when Jesse stepped out of the house. Jesse took in the scene before him and asked simply, "More coffee?" Luke looked up with a smile, "Sure. Thanks Uncle Jesse." "Have they changed the road since last month?" asked Jesse. Luke smiled, "I hope not! Just making sure....." Jesse stopped him, "You can never be 'sure' and if you think you are then your just looking for trouble." "Thanks." Luke said sincerely. He understood what Jesse was telling him. "Its just that...." He paused, "With Beth ......." "Luke." Jesse started, "I've been in your shoes with your own father and Bo's father. I was the oldest, it was my responsibility to see we got back home. I knew if we didn't what your and Bo's mothers would be going through alone. Luke don't let those thoughts distract you from the job or you are sunk before you start. You three make a da-- good team. You know what to do and what needs to be done. The cars are ready. The shine is ready. Being underconfident is as bad, if not worse, than being over confident. Now show me your route." Luke showed Jesse the route that they normally took. He also showed him two more he was considering just to change up of the opposition. Jesse asked, "Who's running the shine? And who's blocking?" "Well, there is no way I'm going to stick Bo in the runner without me so I plan to drive. I like running with Bo but I need a good blocker and Bo does know the roads better than Jeb....." Jesse interupted, "And if Bo's in the blocker he could just pull off? Now, Luke...." "Now, Jesse, that's just part of it! And, yes, I know that it isn't likely he'd pull off and leave Jeb and me holding the bag, but he could." said Luke thoughtfully. "Luke, would you pull out for any reason and leave any of the boys to take the wrap without you? No matter what the reason, would you?" asked Jesse. "Of course not! That's why I always make sure I'm in the runner. But, Bo has a lot more to loose than either Jeb or me. So I figure for several reasons I'll let him run blocker for Jeb and me. Cooter fixed that false panel in Tilley and it works like a charm." stated Luke. Jesse replied, "Well, that's real good, as long as you don't get stopped by a car enthuisist you should be alright and no one should notice the addition. You and Bo just need to keep calm and put all thougths of Beth and getting caught out of your minds like you always have. Got that?" "Yes, Sir. Got it. Thanks, Uncle Jesse." replied Luke. "Got any ideas about the route?" Jesse replied, "Tried and true is always the best. If you change up, you don't know if they are staking it out for someone else. You have various routes to loose them on the old route, should you pick up a tail." "Thanks Uncle Jesse. I'm going to grab another cup of coffee then get Bo and Jeb." replied Luke. Jesse reminded, "The shine is behind the Oak tree below still site number 4." Luke nodded as he headed for the kitchen. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ In Bo and Beth's room, Luke knocking on the door got both Bo and Beth's attention. Cue Beth

Bo was driving the General Lee back to the Boar's Nest thinking of 'Luke's Big Day', then his thoughts wandered back to a time, now, he thought, almost twenty years earlier. 'Where had the time went?' It seemed like just yesturday that he and Beth were dating. Yet, he realized that Bo, Jr. right now was older than he was when he'd married Beth. He wondered 'if ' or 'when' Luke and Dixie would start a family of their own, at 'their age'..... He found himself laughing until tears threatened to spill down his face. ....... Aloud he said to himself, "Yeah, at Luke's age? What was he thinking? He was just a couple of years younger than Luke AND Dixie was younger than them both. Here he was, himself, with a new little one on the way -- What was he thinking? Of course Luke and Dixie still had plenty of time to start a family. It was at this particular moment a young deer decided to get Bo's undivided attention by jumping into the middle of the road just in front of the General Lee. It was a fact that Bo had been drinking a bit and everyone knows your reflexes aren't what they normally are if you have been drinking, but fortunately for the deer and the General Lee Bo had been a race car driver most of his life and even though he had been in a world of thought he still was able to react to the sudden movement in front of him. He locked the brakes and slide the General Lee around in the road to a stop as the young frightened deer headed back to the woods. Bo sighed, 'Yep, that got my attention!" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ In Atlanta, something else had Luke's undivided attention! The only light in the room other than that from the city was from several candles which Luke had busied himself lighting while Dixie changed. Luke had poured two glasses of Jesse's finest to toast his bride. When he heard the door open he turned to see Dixie exit the bathroom wearing a snow white lace trimmed, floor length gown and robe. At this moment in his life Luke was sure he had seen nothing more beautiful in his life. He crossed the room to his bride handing her a glass of moonshine. "To the most beautiful sight I've ever seen..." he raised his glass. Dixie blushed deeply like a school girl on her first date, replying, "To my husband, the most amazing man I've ever known." After the toast Luke took Dixie in his arms, kissing her deeply.................. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ At the Boar's Nest Robin looked from her brother to the Judge. "And you 'helped' him?" Mark replied, "Yes, and am still helping him. I really didn't have much choice! ........ At the time!" Robin looked at Mark disbelievingly. Mark and the Judge smiled at her. Mark said, "You just don't understand. Come on, I'll explain, further." He put his arm around his sister and Mark winked at Hardcastle. "Come on Robin, I'll buy you another drink." Cue Beth

High Octane is the show.....He is Boreguard Duke. Luke is Lucas K. It nevers says what the K is for but I think Lucas Keith fits. Dixie

Judge Hardcastle stopped Jesse outside the Courthouse. "Jesse. Can we talk over a cup of coffee?" Jesse knew the Judge had just done his job, but he'd given Luke the Maximum sentence when he could have done otherwise. Jesse saw the anger flash in Bo's eyes and needed to head it off so he said, "Bo you take the others, ....." He started to say to the Garage but thought better of that quickly. "To the Boar's Nest get you all a bite to eat and I'll be along shortly then we'll go see Luke." Jesse didn't like the look in Bo's eyes. "Bo. Now." Leaving no room for discussion. To the Judge he said, "Let's go." At the dinner Judge Hardcastle took the back booth away from the few customers that were in the dinner. He told the wiatress, "Two coffees. And bring a pot." After the young lady left them he said to Jesse, "Jesse, we've been friends for a long while. I'm sorry I had to do what I did today. That was the toughest desicion I've passed down since becoming a Judge. Not just because Luke is your nephew but because I honestly feel he was telling me the total truth that he didn't know how old Ms. Davenport was and that she didn't know the law." Hardcastle paused as the coffee was served. Then continued, "What I'm concerned with talking to you about now though is something that could indirectly benefit Luke." he paused to let that soak in. He needed something from Jesse Duke and knew now wasn't the time to ask unless he could make it worth Jesse's time to even get him to listen. Hardcastle said, "Mark McCormick. He chose to stay in jail instead of letting you bond him. He is charged with Armed Robbery which is not less than 10 years. I know he says he's innocent and I tend to believe what he's telling me up to this point, of course I'll have to hear all the evidence. The evidence doesn't look good should this go to trial. It seems that if what he is claiming, that he was set up, they did a good job of it. I'd like to make him an offer which could benefit Luke somewhat. If he'd plead to Nighttime Burglary it is a 1-15. We could wrap this up quicker and I could pull a few strings to have them housed closer to home and on a work camp where they would at least be outside quiet a bit. I can probably even get them housed together. Jesse this is a newer place and it's nothing like the old camps like in Osage. You do realize that with Luke's charge he will have to watch his back and it will be worse if he goes to the State prison. At least if they go together they can watch each others backs." Jesse saw the lodgic of the Judges plan and did see how this would benefit Luke but said, "Milt how can you think of sending that kid to prison if you believe him?" He sighed deeply, "Jesse, I have to go with the evidence which even if this goes to a jury they found in his car a loaded gun, a ski mask and checks belonging to the Dixie Inn. He doesn't have a alibi, his car was placed at the scene. He can take the deal and likely be home in a year. Otherwise he'll fight this, most likely loose the case, and spend the next 10 years in prison and without some strings being pulled the fact a gun was used will keep him inside just like with Luke's charge." Jesse himself sighed, "I don't like doing this but I see where you are coming from. I don't know if I can make Mark see it or not, but I will explain this all to both them." Judge Hardcastle said, "Thank you Jesse. I wish I could have done more to help Luke but you heard Luther Davenport he should be satisfied now. Now I'll do what I can to even the score on Luke's side." He desparately wanted to tell Jesse his whole plan but knew it would loose the effect to explian all his plans now. Jesse checked the time on his pocket watch. "I'll go get the others and I'll do what I can." Hardcastle said, "Thanks again. And I am sorry that I couldn't come up with a better solution." Jesse just nodded as he headed toward the door. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ After meeting the kids at the Boar's Nest, they all went to see Luke and Mark at the jail. After letting them visit awhile Jesse sent them out so he could explain what the Judge had said. After all the explaining was done Mark McCormick was not ready to admit guilt to a crime he didn't do, but agreed that he'd think about it. When Jesse left, he sent Bo back down to talk to Luke and Mark. Jesse knew Luke and Bo were closer than any of his kids and knew that they needed this chance to talk freely without the other kids or himself around. Due to the extreme lenght of the sentence Peggy knew that this had about floored Luke. She was glad to let Bo stay for a couple of hours to let them talk. At least if Luke were talking to Bo or Mark maybe he wasn't thinking as much.

Luther worried about Dixie being out like this but felt it was Ok since Cooter was along too. He also felt sure that Luke being so responsible with his wrecker, tools and garage was responsible enough to keep an eye on Dixie and Jeb. Luther always thought Jeb was a good kid. Course all 'Jesse's kids' were good kids. (Luther was thought Dixie liked Jeb.) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Luke drove to the ladies houses to drop them off. First to Jeb's disappointment was Lisa, then Kathy and finally Dixie. Luke spoke up, "Cooter, we're all going to the garage at first light in the morning. Want to stay with us?" Cooter replied, "You got it!" So after seeing Dixie home they guys left for the Duke farm. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Dixie stood in the doorway watching the General Lee go down the driveway. She had just had the time of her life. She was thinking about all the 'stories' she'd heard when people thought she wasn't listening about Luke Duke, though to her he'd been a perfect gentleman. She was having a hard time believing that he could 'use' girls like she'd heard. Dixie liked the attention she'd gotten tonight, thinking, 'Yes, I will keep this up.' She smiled as she headed for the shower. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Luther was relieved to see the lights on at the house when he returned from getting Bo Duke unstuck. It meant that the kids were home. Dixie came out of the bathroom in her robe as Luther came in the house, "Dad, Cooter is staying at the Dukes tonight so they can all be at the garage in the morning." Luther replied, "Ok. I just had to pull Bo Duke out of a ditch ......" Dixie looked concerned, "What happened? Is Beth OK?" "They are both Ok and so is the car. Looks like the front tire blew and Beth put it in the ditch. The way it was setting Bo couldn't change the tire or get it out of the ditch without a pull. I'm heading to bed now." said Luther. Dixie replied, "That's good. Good night, Dad." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The next day at the garage. Luke said, "Cooter can we get this set up by this afternoon?" I need to be out of here early this afternoon. Jesse has a long trip set up today." Cooter smiled, "Relax, Lucas and let the 'Master' work." He fired up the torch and started working on Black Tilley. Luke took a step back and laughed at his friend. "Whatever you say! I think I'll just check out the plugs and wires while you do your magic on the trunk." Bo replied, "Luke, that false panel in the trunk should work wonders for hiding at least 12 gallons of shine." Luke looked up, "Bo, while you were doing those odd jobs last week. We measured it I can get 12 to 16 gallons in there easy. And better yet we'll be able to get to it from up front in case we have to ditch it in a hurry." Bo replied, "That should do the trick then. Who's running blocker today me or Jeb?" Luke had been thinking about just that very thing. He knew Bo knew the roads better than Jeb and this trip would be taking them out of State through some 'bad' Counties. He and Bo had always been a team and though Jeb was good it was hard to get used to someone else riding 'shotgun' yet he needed a good blocker. Jesse had been letting the boys plan their own runs lately, but Luke was going to run this by Jesse before he made a final plan. With Beth being pregnant, it upped the stakes for Bo if he got caught so Luke had tried to put Bo in the safest position -- if there was such a thing on a moonshine run. At least if Bo were the blocker he could pull off and head home if things went wrong for Luke and Jeb, yet, Luke was pretty sure that Bo would not leave even if Luke told him to. The only thing Luke knew to do about that was to do what they had always done --- Just don't get caught! Cue Beth

I've seen the first kitty picture before -- the kitty was a bad kitty ---- it is a "CAT BURGLAR"!!! LOL Dixie

Peggy removed the handcuffs and stepped to the side of the door to let the family talk but she was in between Luke and the only door in the room. In the witness room off from the Court room with Luke were some very upset Dukes and one Davenport. Bo was the first to speak after Jesse went back in for Mark, "Luke! Did you HAVE to do that? Are you CRAZY?" Standing with his arm around both Daisy and Dixie, Luke replied evenly, "Yes, I did. And, No, I'm not." Bo voiced what was on the others mind but no one (except Luke and Jesse -- unknown to the others) had talked about . "By saying you're guilty on this you'll....." Bo paused trying to choke the lump in his throat back down to try to talk to Luke in the short time they would have. "Luke, you'll go to jail..." Bo looked up to try to stop the tears that were threatening. Luke knew his next statement to Bo was likely to upset him, Dixie and Daisy more so than the younger three Duke boys since he was closer to them so Luke tried to speak with a calmness he didn't feel, "Bo. I know what I'm doing here." He thought, 'I think!' "I know that unless I get one He-- of a break I won't being going to jail on this, ..... but to prison. I'm putting all my marbles in one sack and hoping by doing this now without delaying that I'll at least get some kind of a break but with Hardcastle in there I just don't know." Luke felt more than saw or heard the girls on boths his sides tense up and he could tell they were crying but didn't want him to know it. Frankly he didn't want to know it right now either. About this time Jesse came back into the room. Luke looking for a distraction from his own situation asked, "What happened?" Jesse replied, "He's in with the Judge talking like he did to you. Said they'd call me when they came back in." Jesse thought about telling Luke of his friends decision but decided it could wait that he had enough 'on his plate' that he couldn't control. Bo said in a pleading voice, "Uncle Jesse, you've got to make Luke here change his mind." Jesse said warningly, "Bo .... Now, Luke here is in a fix ..... But, I want you all to understand, sometimes a man has got to make difficult choices in his life. This is one of those times for Luke. He doesn't need us making it more difficult. In this room is family and as family we have got to support each other........" Bo heard the words that Jesse hadn't said also, 'Not make him feel worse than they knew he did.' It was all Bo could do to mask his frustration but he'd try to for Luke's sake. He just hoped they could talk without having to worry about Dixie, Daisy, Jeb, Coy, Vance and even Jesse. Bo knew that the two could say things to each other they could never say to anyone else. He just couldn't understand what Luke was thinking. There was a knock at the door. Rosco told Jesse Mark and the Judge were back. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Back in the Court room. Jesse had returned to hopefully help Mark. "I'll set your bond in case you change your mind." The Judge informed Mark of his right to an attorney and completed the needed paperwork then said, "I'm setting the bond at $50,000 due the the seriouness of the crime. Jesse if he should change his mind and you are still willing to go his bond contact me. I'm sure if you are using the farm we can work something out on the bond." Jesse said, "Thank you Judge Hardcastle." Mark also told the Judge, "Thanks." Mark was escorted back downstairs and the cuffs and leg irons removed. He stepped into the cell and heard the very distinct sound of steel meeting steel as the cell door closed with a clang then the key turned with a clink, locking the cell and Mark inside. Standing alone in the cell he felt his pulse quicken, his heart rate raced as he wanted desperately to call out that he'd changed his mind about not letting Jesse Duke bond him. Then he thought of how Luke would feel for his Uncle to bond Mark yet he couldn't go home. Mark sighed and thought, 'I can't do it to him. I know I didn't rob anything and I'll fight to prove that but I can't leave Luke when he unknowingly DID do something wrong and is facing it. He sighed and said lowly to himself, "I'll just have to stick this out for right now." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Judge Hardcastle took the rest of the time looking for a legal loop hole to keep from sending a 'kid' "up the river" that had made a terrible error in judgement. He was compeled to follow the law but was looking for a way to serve justice and satisfy the father yet be fair to the young man. The letter of the law was clear. Unfortunately, by pleading guilty, the kid was going to do a lot of hard time thanks to the girls father being so bull headed to take this thing to court. Wait, he had one more place to look ......... ~~~~~~~~~ Rosco knocked, then told Peggy, "Judge said two minutes." Luke hugged each of his family and Dixie. Then said, "I love you all. Thanks for everything." Then to Dixie only he said, "Remember, I do love you. I will be on your doorstep some day, when the timing is better." He then turned to Peggy so she could replace the cuffs as the others went to the Courtroom. ~~~~~~~~~~ At 1 pm shape Judge Hardcastle's court was again called to order. Judge Hardcastle spoke, "Lucas Duke, please stand for sentencing." He paused, then continued, "You have plead guilty to the above charges." Making one of the toughest decisions in his career Hardcastle said, "I am sentencing you to the maximum 20 years in prison." Standing straight Luke heard the sentence that was passed down. He had known he was in serious trouble but had NEVER expected THIS! He felt his knees turn to rubber and his chest tightened making breathing almost impossible. It was all he could do to remain standing, he WOULD NOT give Luther Davenport anymore satisfaction than he was now getting! The rest of the sentence fell on deaf ears as far as Luke was concerned because he didn't hear anything else. He continued to hear Hardcastle saying, "20 years in prison." Hardcastle continued, "I am also placing a condition that you can not phone or write to Dixie Davenport while incarcerated." The Judge also spouted a lot of Latin gobbledy goop that no one from Hazzard understood. Then said to Peggy, "Mr. Duke is now placed in your custody to await transport to the State Prison." Luke felt Jesse nudge his arm as Peggy had stepped closer to Luke. His family's and Dixie's reaction were put on hold until Luke was taken downstairs. Mark noticed when Luke came back down stairs he was as pale as a ghost as Peggy uncuffed him. He stepped inside the cell. Mark saw him shudder as the door locked with the same clang, click that he himself had been unnerved by a short time before. After Peggy went upstairs to get the required paperwork from the Judge, Mark asked quietly, "Luke? What happened?" Luke just stared at the wall as he stood by the bed and quietly said, "It's over." Mark said, "Well, tell me what happened." Luke looked his friend in the eyes, "Not now. I can't. ....... It's done with. I'll tell you in a bit." Luke sat down on the metal bed with the hard mattress, putting his back to the side of the cell against the bars. He had his heels on the edge of the narrow bunk with his knees pulled up to his chin. He placed his elbows on his knees with his head on his arms. He sat like that for quiet some time before looking at the bars that surrounded his friend and himself. He said barely heard by Mark even though they weren't far from each other, "Twenty YEARS." Mark looked up and the sound of Luke's voice. He almost said, 'What did you say?' But, then he realized what he'd heard. He couldn't think of one thing to say to his friend as he processed the information, then, began to wonder what exactly his fate would be for a robbery he did not commit.......

I am re-posting my footnote. I left out much of the explanation while looking for the link. Sorry for the interruption in the story. What is in caps is the addition. Dixie ************** Milton C. Hardcastle, retired Tri-County Judge and retired Superior Court, Judge in California -- In my world I have taken the liberty of having Judge Hardcastle from Hardcastle and McCormick HAVING BEEN A TRI-COUNTY JUDGE IN HAZZARD BEFORE MOVING TO CALIFORNIA WHERE HE BECAME A SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE. THUS IT IS POSSIBLE FOR McCORMICK TO HAVE WENT BEFORE HIM IN TWO STATES ON THE THREE CHARGES MENTIONED ABOVE, See this link for more info on Hardcastle and McCormick --- and the COYOTE!!! http://www.angelfire.com/tv2/coyote/

Robin had turned to her car then stopped. It had been years since she had talked to her oldest brother face to face and she wasn't going to let him go back to California without talking to him. She started toward the front door of the Boar's Nest. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Luke had slowed the General Lee down before reaching the County line hoping that Bo would catch up. No such luck since he had stopped to talk to Robin. Luke pulled over into a wide spot just before getting to the County line. Dixie looked up from his shoulder, "Luke what are you doing?" "Just be patient. I have a surprise for you." Luke whispered. Almost before he had gotten the words out Bo pulled in behind him. "See, here's part one of the surprise. Come on." Luke said climbing out of the General Lee. He went to the other side and helped Dixie out. She asked, "Bo do you have any idea what this man is up to?" she asked. Bo shook his head no. "No, Honey, I have no idea. I just met him here with the truck like he asked." Luke smiled mischievously and exclaimed, "And, cousin that's all you needed to know until tomorrow!" Luke opened the trunk of the General Lee taking out the two small bags and putting them in the truck. Bo whispered, "Luke, don't get pulled over. Behind the far back seat is a quart of Jesse's finest. I figured that would be enough so that you could get ride of the evidence by tomorrow!" Luke smiled, "Booo, I don't know if you are a GENIOUS or a COM -- PLETE I--D--IOT! Thanks Cousin!" "Genious works for me!" Said Bo as he put one leg into the General Lee. He watched as Luke and his bride got into the pickup. 'Yeah, Robin's best wishes could wait until he and Luke were alone.' he thought. Bo knew Dixie pretty well and was sure she'd understand but just in case, tonight, wasn't the night! He sat in the General and watched Luke pull out heading toward the County line. He had not seen Luke this happy in a long time. What ever the surprise he had in store for his bride must have been a good one. Of course Luke was like this at Christmas too. He enjoyed more the planning and the surprising others than he did actually receiving a gift for himself. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ "I don't suppose there is any point in asking where we are headed?" Dixie asked content just to be alone with Luke. He answered confidently, "Nope." then asked, "You do trust me, don't you, Mrs. Duke?" She said simply, "With my life, Mr. Duke." Luke just smiled and nodded. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Robin walked into the Boar's Nest. It had been several years since she had been there but though it had been remodeled several times due to fights, 'Ahhhhh, .... that she was sure that Luke had financed at least a couple of times in his life!' she thought, 'because she had watched several such fights he'd been involved in while they were dating -- well, OK, shortly after they broke up.' She let her eyes adjust to the light. Setting in a far table with Cooter Davenport, Jeb, Coy, Vance and several others was a slightly older version of a sandy haired, slim, but well-built man with a great tan that could only be her older brother. She and Mark had had a strained relationship ever since he'd gotten into trouble. She believed Mark but her parents firmly believed that if you made your bed you should lie in it thus they forbit Robin or David ANY contact with Mark. By the time she was on her own she had lost track of him but vowed that this time it would not happen again. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ From a back table across the room Milton C. Hardcastle, retired Tri-County Judge and retired Superior Court, Judge in California *********** sat with his older friends missing one particular old fishing buddy, Jesse Duke, while watching his ex-con side kid drink his third beer and loosen up around his friends, that Hardcastle knew he'd not seen in at least ten to fifteen years. He noticed the young lady walk in. She was dressed nicely with short light brown hair. She seemed to take an immediate interest in McCormick. Hardcastle now became more interested. The woman walked over to Mark and said something that Hardcastle couldn't hear. He watched as McCormick turned to her voice, stood up, took her in his arms and hugged her tightly! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ What Robin had said was, "Buy a sister a drink?" McCormick turned to her voice, stood up, took her in his arms and hugged her tightly! saying, "Robin!! You have yourself a deal!" He said flagging down a waitress. "A 'Jack and Coke' for the lady." To Robin he said, "Man, it's good to see you! What have you done to your hair?" "Shorter is easier!" she replied. There was so much that both wanted to say and both felt that their was so little time to say it. Mark swollowed the lump in his throat, and said, "I have someone I want you to meet and you ARE NOT going to believe who it is............" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Mark and Robin walked to Hardcastle's table. Mark began, "Robin this is retired Judge Milton C. 'Hardcase' Hardcastle." Looking shocked, Robin almost said something she'd regret, but was stopped by Mark saying, "............. Mark laid his hand on her shoulder, and said, "Yes! ................ He is the Judge, ......... that put me away not once, BUT twice and ALMOST a third time! BUT, let me tell you he's saved my bacon more than that! I think we are coming to an understanding!" He paused for effect then said, "Hardcase, this is my sister, Robin." Hardcastle looked at the two, now seeing the family likenesses, said with a warm smile, "Don't let him fool you. He usually pulls my bacon out of the fire more often!" Confussed, Robin stared at the two. Mark explained, "See, he's the 'Lone Ranger' and I'm his 'Tonto' which started several years ago. I ended up in his Court one to many times whick happened to be his last case, .............." Hardcastle interupted, "I gave him a deal he COULD NOT refuse!" "Yeah!" Mark said, "He's right. ................ Either help him or return to prison for doing the 'right thing' the wrong way!" he paused, then continued to explain, "After the 'trouble here' I went to California to race, I bought a car and the insurance was WAY out of my budget, so I put it in my, ah, 'girlfriends' name. We had a fight, so she reports 'her' car stolen. ............ Of all the Judge's in California, who do I get? The one who knows me! I took a two year 'vacation' to San Quentin!" He let that sink in before continueing, "So then I had a friend who designed MY car the 'Coyote', who was murdered, and the car taken, his daughter talked me into stealing him back, I did, I got caught! Care to guess who I went in front of?? ..... You got it! Hardcastle! .... Care to figure the odds of getting into a 'fix' three times in two states and having the SAME Judge? Anyway, Hardcase, here 'offered' me this kind of goofy partnership? Not even a partnership, more like an indentured servitude arrangement complete with some indefinite custody clause. Indefinite custody--that idea in itself was insane. We couldn't be in the same room together without trading insults, and yet it was clear Hardcastle had expected me to just jump at the offer. The Judge had laid it all out like some grand, logical plan that made perfect sense. Well, it didn't make sense to me. It sounded well...crazy and possibly dangerous and.......CRAZY. See he had 200 cases 'walk' out of his Court room on a minor technicality so after his retirement he wanted to go after them figuring they were still up to their old tricks. Turns out the ones we've went after for the most part either were up to their old tricks or improved on them. So far We got what about 50 convictions? Hardcase?" Hardcastle looked on, knowing that McCormick had drank just enough to be willing to talk without worrying about what either Robin or he thought. Hardcastle smiled, Mark wasn't causing any trouble but was on his way to felling no pain, ah, at least until tomorrow morning! He replied, "43 convictions, 8 pending." "Wow! MY brother is 'helping' you, after all the past history?" Robin asked. Both Hardcastle and McCormick answered, "Yep!" McCormick added "It was help him or off to another vacation at San Quentin as a three time looser!" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Luke pulled up and parked the truck in the middle of Atlanta. He said, "I'll be right back." He got out of the pickup and entered the Peachtree Plaza. Luke grumbled a bit a few minutes later when he realized that his pickup was too long and tall to park in the garage of the hotel and they'd have to park across the street. He had booked a room on the 70th floor of the 73 story hotel. After getting to the room both Luke and Dixie went to the window to check out the view of Atlanta. Dixie spoke first, "WOW!!!!!!!!!" "I thought you would like it. And, they will never guess we are staying here! I hope they think we are at the Hazzard Inn or camping out!" Luke said taking Dixie into his arms. "Luke Duke, you are an EVIL man!" said Dixie looking up to Lukes eyes. "Come here Mrs. Duke and I'll prove THAT!" he said taking his wife in his arms tightly and kissing her passionately! ************** Milton C. Hardcastle, retired Tri-County Judge and retired Superior Court, Judge in California -- In my world I have taken the liberty of having Judge Hardcastle from Hardcastle and McCormick. See this link for more info on Hardcastel and McCormick --- and the COYOTE!!! http://www.angelfire.com/tv2/coyote/ Cue Beth

Meanwhile, at the lake, Jeb Stuart Duke was having the time of his life.... It was becoming less and less clear who was the chaser and who was the chasie. Things were definitely heating up on both sides of the lake. The only thing that stopped Jeb from 'scoring' tonight was the fact that he knew Lisa had just broken up with her boyfriend. He wanted to, really wanted to, but not just because she was doing it to get back at her ex-boyfriend and the fact that Jeb was sure Luke would be completing his walk around the lake and would walk up on them anytime. On the other side of the lake though Luke wasn't in any hurry. He and Dixie were talking. They were talking about her school, music, cars, and racing. Yeah, Luke knew Dixie was Cooter's little sister, they were talking because he'd never try any thing with her and jeprodize the friendship the two families had had through the years. Yet, he hadn't had this good a time since he and Robin broke up. Luke couldn't help but remember some of the things Bo had thrown up in his face about going out with every girl in the Tri-Counties for only one reason. Bo had been right. It had taken Luke awhile to realize that he had been doing this to get back at Robin but basically was only lessening his chance of getting to have what he'd had with Robin with any girl that he'd take home to see Jesse or that their parents would let them go out with him. The more he talked to Dixie the more he got to know her as herself not as Cooter's little sister. He was planning on looking to find someone that he could talk to and get to know better. He decided right then and there that he'd stop, well, OK, he'd slow his 'running around' down. Cooter and Kathy were the first back to the General Lee. Cooter sounded the General's horn to get the others attention. He and Kathy continued to 'neck' unti they returned to the car a few minutes later.

Dixie whispered to Luke, "Your cousin is a dead 'Duck' when this is over!" Luke just smiled. "Come on Mrs. Duke." It felt like all of Hazzard was there to see the bride and groom off by the rice that was hitting them as Luke helped Dixie into the General Lee. Luke fired up the General and hit the horn as they pulled out playing 'Dixie'. Bo whispered to Beth, "Honey, I'm not real sure what's up but I need to take Luke's pickup to meet him and bring the General Lee back. Shouldn't take just a few minutes and I'll be right back." "Go on. I'll be right here." replied Beth. Bo walked around to the side of the Boar's Nest where Luke's truck was parked as everyone else was going back inside to finish the party. As Bo opened the truck door he heard something, so he closed the door and walked toward the back of the Boar's Nest. Standing in the dim light of early evening with her back to him was a familar female though her hair was different Bo Duke would recognize any female that he knew a mile away. He walked over and gently put his hand on her shoulder as he asked, "Robin?" Robin turned to him, "Bo you scared the life out of me." "Sorry about that. Why are you out here and not inside?" asked Bo. "I wanted to come in, but the more I thought about the more I felt I couldn't." she said, "I didn't want to cause Luke any problems especially today. I would have liked to have wished him well, ..... I even came by the church for the wedding but couldn't bring myself to talk to him." "Robin, your not saying? .... I mean, you don't?......" Bo studdered. Robin smiled, "Bo! No. I still love Luke but I am not in love with him. I only want to see him happy. I had my time of happiness and though you may not know this he showed at my wedding too." she smiled. The look on Bo's face was priceless -- he indeed didn't know that Luke came to see her at the church just before she married Ralph Green. "I know I made a mistake that caused us not to get back together, but I don't regret that. We had something special that never would have worked at that time. Luke was right about that though I couldn't see it then. I really just wanted to stop by and wish him and Dixie well." "You mean with all the trouble he and Ralp had he showed up at the church with Ralph and everyone there?" Bo laughed! Robin smiled at the thought, "Yeah, he sure did." Bo recovered from the curve ball Robin had thrown him and said, "Well, I can let him know you were here or ......" Bo was trying to think but him mouth had already ran away without him. He just hoped Robin would turn down his offer. He wasn't sure what Dixie or Luke would think about him and Robin showing up to switch vechicles AND what would Beth say later? "I am just on my way to meet Luke and Dixie to trade out vehicles, ........ you could ride with me if you want?" Robin thought for a minute before replying, "........

A couple miles out of town Luke started playing with the dome light trying to catch (More so Jeb) Jeb or Cooter snicking a kiss by flipping the dome light on. It was a game the guys had played with each other often and just hoped the girls were good natured about the whole thing. Once at the lake everyone got out. Cooter being the oldest of the three males quickly found a reason to separate. "Kathy have I ever showed you the trial that leads up to the cliff over yonder that looks down on the lake?" Cooter asked. "No, I dont' believe you have." she replied innocently. Cooter smiled, "Well, come on. Luke keep an eye on Dixie huh?" Luke knew what Cooter was up to as they had double dated often. "Sure, go ahead." Dixie gave Cooter a dirty look. Luke just nodded. "Let him be.He didn't mean anything by it." Jeb soon suggested a walk by the lake. He and Lisa went one way. Luke and Dixie went the other. Luke hoped his cousin knew what he was doing. He knew that he could have fussed all night long and like Bo Jeb wouldn't have listened at this point. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Bo and Beth were headed home in Beth's Camaro, when all of the sudden... there was a loud pop and the Camaro suddenly pulled to the left. BEth was driving as Bo had been drinking some. She did her best to slow down the car while keeping it in the road. With the front tire blowing she had little control over the car so she was lucky to get slowed down before putting the car in a deep ditch on her side of the car. The Camaro stopped with a thump when it hit the ditch line. Being that the car was her baby Beth said some very unlady like things. "@)@&@$&_&_!*_ !!!" Bo responded thinking she or the baby were hurt, "Honey what is it?" Beth knew she and the baby were find but was worried she'd torn the whole side of the car out. "Bo move! Let me out I want to see what I did to the car!" Bo sat stunned for a whole minute before saying, "What?" "I can't get this door open. I've had to have wiped out the whole side of the car!" replied Beth. "Just hold it! Are you OK? What about the baby?" he asked almost ready to panic. "Bo Duke I've hit hard tripping over my big toe! Let me check out the car!" she exclaimed. Bo was still not happy, but let Beth out of the car. The Camaro was fine other than the flat. She just couldn't get the door open because of the side of the ditch. yet, Bo knew he couldn't get the tire changed like it was setting. He tried to get it out of the ditch. No use. It was going to need to be pulled out then the tire changed. He went to the CB and radioed, "Breaker, anyone home on the Hazzardnet?" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ At the lake Luke nor anyone else heard Bo's call because they were away from the car. Luke and Dixie had walked about a quarter way around the lake when they stopped. Dixie asked, "Luke why does everyone treat me like I'm ........" Luke answered her unasked questioned, "Like you are Cooter's little sister? Because you are." She replied, "Luke!" "Well, I'm being honest. Look Daisy has the same problem. Sugar, you keep this up (referring to her appearance) you'll not have that problem long. I promise." he squeezed her hand for effect. Dixie smiled. She couldn't figure out the butterflies that kept flying around her stomach. Cue Beth

It was starting to get pretty late when Bo and Beth decided it was about time to head home. The girls had brought Beth's car so they'd take it home and Luke could bring the General Lee. As they left the table Cooter, his girlfriend Kathy, and her friend Lisa took seats with Luke, Jeb and Dixie. Cooter said, "Whew, just handed the keys to the wrecker over to Dad. You know I've fished Rosco out of the crick four times this weekend? Maybe Dad can get some use out of his new waders and give me a break if old Rosco's luck doesn't change." Luke laughed, "Well, as long as that car learns to swim by tomorrow night I'll be OK." he said sarcastically, as he'd be driving the wrecker tomorrow night for Luther Davenport. Luke sometimes drove to give Cooter and Luther a break and to earn extra money usually for car parts. Cooter nodded for Luke to walk over to the bar. As they walked over, Cooter said, "Luke, we had planned to ride home with Lisa and her now ex-boyfriend. Do you think we can catch a ride home with you?" Luke replied, "Sure Cooter. No problem." Dixie asked Cooter, "Since Daisy just got roped into working and Beth is gone can I ride home with you and Kathy to keep from riding home with Dad?" Before Cooter could answer, Luke replied, "Sure I'll give you a ride since Cooter is riding with me." Dixie thought to herself. 'This could work out really well.' Lisa had just finished telling them how big a jerk. Though Lisa was more Luke's age she was eyeing Jeb. She said, "Thanks Luke." Jeb hadn't missed the looks from Lisa. He knew that he and Dixie were friends, though she had impressed him, he was planning on trying his Duke charm on Lisa. He said, "You know Luke if we leave now we could ride out by the lake before taking everyone home." "Good idea Jeb." Said Luke all for it. Dixie replied, "Just let me let Dad know. I'm sure he'll be fine with it." she lied. She wan't at all sure he'd let her go but hoped since Cooter would be there it would be OK. During the conversation with Luther she implied that she was just catching a ride home to be home earlier than her father. He asked if she was talking to a boy. She replied, "Me? Dad, I'm a 'Tom Boy' besides me and Jeb are like cousins." she said telling the truth. They all headed to the General Lee. Both Cooter and Jeb got in the back seat. Kathy climbed into the back also setting on Cooter's lap. Lisa asked, "Where do you all want me? And why are you climbing in the windows?" Luke replied, "Because the doors are welded shut. Here I'll help you. You can ride up front or in the back." Jeb said, "Luke it might be crowded up there with all three of you in the front. Lisa you can set back here with us." Jeb offered. Luke shook his head. They road three in the front all the time but he'd go along. "Yeah, you're right Jeb." He said helping Lisa into the car where she found herself on Jeb's lap. Luke also helped Dixie into the front seat before climbing in the driver's seat. He fired up the car and they headed toward the lake....... Cue Beth

Dixie stepped on the little platform that they had used as a stage. Luke started to step back. She touched his arm and shook her head, "I need you for this one. OK?" Luke smiled, "Sure." Dixie and Luke had sung this many times years ago so she knew he knew the words. She talked a second to Jeb then the music began to play: Kathy Mattea's - Where Have You Been Dixie sang -- Clare had all but given up When she and Edwin fell in love She touched his face, and shook her head In disbelief, she sighed and said "In many dreams, I've held you near. Now at last your really here. (Then Luke joined her in the CHORUS he continued to sing with her the rest of the song. They knew where she'd sing quieter and he'd sing louder in all the right places.) "Where have you been? I've looked for you forever and a day. Where have you been? I'm just not myself when your away." VERSE: He asked her for her hand for life And she became a salesman's wife He was home each night by eight But one stormy evening he was late Her frightened tears fell to the floor 'Til his key turned in the door "Where have you been? I've looked for you forever and a day. Where have you been? I'm just not myself when your away." (Bridge) They'd never spent a night apart For sixty years she heard him snore Now they're in a hospital In separate beds, on different floors Clare soon lost her memory Forgot the names of family She never spoke a word again Then one day they wheeled him in He held her hand and stroked her hair And in a fragile voice she said, "Where have you been? I've looked for you forever and a day. Where have you been? I'm just not myself when your away. No, I'm just not myself when your away." When they were finished there wasn't a dry eye in the house. Laura looked at Jake, "I didn't have a clue they could sing like that." "Hey, me either, remember I'm new to this family too." he smiled. By now most everyone had gotten out of their more formal wear and traded them for jeans even Luke and Dixie had gotten more comfortable after the pictures though they were still dress nicely. Jeb being the Duke clown took a cordless mic and set it on the table where the bridal party had been seated. He knew this bunch and the song he intended to play it should work well. BJ McKay was now setting beside Daisy as they had all began moving. Jake and Bo, Jr. had also went to another table. Beth was shuffling Carolyn, Jesse and Michaela out the door with friends who had offered to let her stay with Bo. Carolyn complained, "Why do I have to go and Ruth Ann gets to stay?" Beth replied, "She's older. She will be home soon. Don't make me bother your Father. This night is as important to him as it is for your Uncle Luke. You got to come and stay this long. Not another word." The three youngest Dukes went but didn't like it. When the song started they all knew it and as Jeb had planned the bridal party took certain lines that fit them and sung along then passed the mic to someone else for the next line. Jeb -- I saw star wars at least eight times Coy -- Had the pac-man pattern memorized Vance -- I've seen the stuff they put inside... Stretch Armstrong yeah Luke -- I was Roger Staubach in my backyard Vance Had a shoe box full of baseball cards Jeb -- And a couple of Evil Knievel scars on my right arm Dixie -- I was a kid when Elvis died And my mama cried... ALL ---- It was 1970 something In the world that I grew up in Farrah Fawcett hairdoo days, bell bottoms and 8-track tapes Lookin' back now I can see me And oh man did I look cheesy I wouldn't trade those days for nothin' Oh, it was 1970 somethin' ALL -- It was the dawning of a new decade Debbie -- We got our first microwave Cooter --- Dad broke down and finally shaved those sideburns off Daisy I took the stickers off of my Rubix Cube Debbie Watched MTV all afternoon BJ --- My first love was Daisy Duke BJ --- With them, cut-off jeans Coy --- Space shuttle fell out of the sky And the whole world cried ALL --- It was 1980 somethin' In the world that I grew up in Skating rinks and black trans ams Big hair and parachute pants Lookin' back now I can see me And Oh, man did I look cheesy I wouldn't trade those days for nothin' Oh, it was 1980 somethin' Bo ------ Now I got a mortgage and an SUV But all this responsibility Makes me wish sometimes... ALL ---- It was 1980 somethin' In the world that I grew up in Skating rinks and black trans ams Big hair and parachute pants Lookin' back now I can see me And Oh, man did I look cheesy I wouldn't trade those days for nothin' Oh, it was 1980 somethin' 1970 somethin'... Oh, it was 19 somethin'... Daisy was having a great time with BJ she was trying hard not to think about Enos being hurt. Not tonight. She just wanted to have a good time and enjoy Luke and Dixie's happiness. The thought started to form in her head but she soon chased it away she couldn't allow herself to think that maybe some day this joy could be hers ........ and ....... BJ's. Luke walked up to Bo who was talking to Cooter. "Do you guys think you can help me slip us out of here in the ...... " looking at his watch, "say next hour or so?" Bo was curious, "Well, sure, Luke but are you slipping out a little early?" Bo gave Luke a mischievious smile. "Actually I think its years late! I have a surprise for Dixie. I'll let you in on it say, ........ tomorrow, or ......... the next day." Cooter smiled, "Well, if that's the case I better go get Daisy. She has a couple of things to see to." Cooter slide off his stool and went over to Daisy. "Bo do you think you could give me a few minutes head start then bring my pickup toward the County line? I know we decided to leave in the General Lee but he just won't be the best vehicle for what I have planned." explained Luke. "Sure." replied Bo even more curious. Daisy was busy getting set up for the throwing of the bouquet and garder. Then she'd have to check out the rice bag supply. Cue Beth

I THINK it was 2 one hour shows. Because it left you hanging all week! Dixie

It never mattered to me who drove they were both GREAT!!! I'm more of a Luke fan myself so it was good when he drove. Maybe Luke is a lot like me I love to drive but when I'm in the car alone for two reasons -- one - noone is there to tell me how I should drive; two - if someone is with me I would rather them drive so I can look around and talk to them. Has anyone noticed that about 9 out of 10 times the General Lee is jumped by Bo it lands front first? When Luke jumps him 9 out of 10 times it lands back end first -- thus not crushing the front. I wonder if it was planned that way or coencidence??????? I intended to ask the stunt team at Duke Fest 04 but didn't remember while I was close to them -- maybe this year. DixieDavenport My best friend liked Bo more so we would argue over who jumped the best and did the least damage!! LOL

Action / drama's Dixie

Mark McCormick was brought upstairs for his bail hearing. Being charged with a Felony Mark was also in handcuffs and leg irons. Judge Hardcastle took notice of the absence of any family in the Courtroom for the young man as he began to read the complaint. Hardcastle began, "Mark McCormick, you have been charged with Armed Robbery." ~~~~~~~~~~ In the witness room Luke was surrounded by his family and Dixie. Jesse looked at him, "Luke I'll be right back let me see if I can help Mark." "Thanks Uncle Jesse." Luke replied. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Jesse walked in as Judge Hardcastle asked, "Do you have anyone to go your bond on this?" Jesse replied, "Judge Hardcastle I'm willing to go his bond if I can since I won't be needing to use the farm for Luke." he sighed. Mark looked at Jesse with a confussed look. Jesse looked at Hardcastle, "Can I have a minute to explain this?" nodding to Mark. Judge Hardcastle nodded 'yes'. Jesse briefly explained to Mark about Luke. Mark asked, "So he's not going home on this?" He could see the hurt in Jesse's eyes as he answered him making Mark wish he'd not asked the question. "No." Jesse said simply. "Jesse I want to thank you and Luke for this. You know even if they believe me, my parents always told me if I got myself into trouble I'd have to get myself out so they would never go the bond." Mark sighed. He'd been thinking while Luke was upstairs. He knew if he was bonded out and something else was robbed then he'd be in more trouble. Now, he was thinking of his friend who was friend enough to ask Jesse to get him out instead of his own self. Mark did not enjoy being locked in a jail cell anymore than Luke or any other person. He wanted to go home. Could he let Jesse use his farm to go his bond and leave Luke? Could he pass up the chance to walk out of here? He looked at Jesse and said, "I can't let you use your farm for me. I truely appreciate the offer, but I can't walk out of here and leave Luke here. Thank you, Jesse." He turned to Judge Hardcastle, "Your Horor, I have a friend who is friend enough to asked his uncle to get me out of here. Mr. Duke explained what he has done. I'll be friend enough to stay here with him, besides if something else is robbed like this and I'm here it might just help prove I didn't do it." Judge Hardcastle looked at the young man in front of him thinking 'What has gotten into these young people today?' He sighed. He couldn't help but take a bit of a liking to the young man who decided to show his loyality to his friend. Once again Judge Hardcastle did something unusal, he said, "I'd like to see Mr. McCormick in my office. Court will be in recess. Jesse I'll have them let you know when we return if you want to see Luke." Jesse said, "Thank you Judge Hardcastle." Jesse addressed his long time fishing friend in a formal manner since they were in Court. Once in the Judge's Chambers he closed the door and began unbuttoning his robe reveiling a shirt with large 'Hawiian print' in bright colors. Needless to say Mark was a bit surprised to see the older man wearing such a shirt under his robe. As with Luke the Judge tosses Mark a handcuff key saying, "You can take those bracelets off unless you like them. Want a Coke?" Mark looked a lot confussed, but did as instructed and took the handcuffs off and then accepted the Coke. Judge Hardcastle sat down with a Coke, took a peanut out of a jar and said, "So, kid tell me your side of this." He sat back in his chair to listen as he opened the file on his desk to see the official version while Mark told him his version. "I had a girlfriend who had been in some trouble. She came to me asking me for help. I took her to the Dixie Inn a couple days ago in my Camero and assured them she could be trusted." Mark looked up biting his lip. "Yeah, well that's what I told them and believed it at the time. She had to work last night. My Camero still has some 'bugs' in it so I drove my Dad's pickup when I decided since she was working I'd spend a quiet evening at home since all my family would be gone last night. I ran in to Luke Duke at the Hazzard Garage and asked him to come over to my house. He used to date my sister so he declined to keep down trouble and he said they all were going to the lake for a bit. I went and bought a half gallon of Jim Bean whiskey and went home." Mark paused. "I proceeded to get smashed. I was awaken by my Dad calling me about 7 this morning. When I came down stairs the State Police were there with a warrant to search my house and car. They decided to start with my car. When they opened the door they found a ski mask between the seats. In the glove box cleaverly hidden by a loaded .357 Magnum was several checks made out to the Dixie Inn. Now, Judge, I'm not a rocket scientist or anything but come on, IF I had robbed the place would I have left all that evidence so neatly in MY car?" Judge Hardcastle asked, "Was the gun yours?" "No. My father cleared that up. We have several .357's. He knew the serial number to be one of his that was kept on the refrigerator." explained Mark. "Can you explain how anyone could have gotten it AND your car?" asked the Judge. Mark sighed, "Yeah. It's amazing how clear things can become in just a few hours..." he nodded toward the jail, "down there. My, ah, " he again spit the word, "ah, girlfriend, Sharon Jones knew I kept a spare key in my bumer of the Camero. She was also with me on evening when I forgot my key. I took the spare key down from the porch light then replaced it back there after opening the house. As for the gun, it was laying there in plain sight on the refrigerator for anyone who walked in to see." "You are claiming that this Sharon Jones came to your house, took the spare key, got the gun, got the spare key to the car and robbed the place then returned the car to your house with the gun, mask and checks in the car for the law to find?" asked the Judge. "I'm saying she had knowledge of the keys which gave her access to the gun and the car. With me in the back of the house drinking I would never have heard her or the car." stated Mark. "Why did you turn down Jesse Duke's offer to bond you?" asked Hardcastle. Mark looked the Judge in the eyes, "If he bonds me and something else is robbed like this I'm sure to be blamed. If I'm here, then it's possible it might help me. Besides, Jesse would have bonded Luke first but I think part of the reason he's being stubborn is so Jesse can bond me. He's getting a raw deal too, but he won't let Dixie be hurt anymore even to clear himself. So he's going to plead guilty to this to protect her and so that Jesse can bond me. The only thing I'm guilty of is getting plastered last night, but I'll not leave him here like that when Jesse could have bonded him instead." Judge Hardcastle handed Mark a shot of liquor to go with his Coke as he continued, "Here drink this with you Coke. Then we'll put that jewerly back on and go set you bond." Mark looked skeptical. "Go on. Or you may have wished you had by the time all this is over." stated the Judge. "Ah, yeah." said Mark before downing the drink.

HOwever you see it. According to the TV show -- General Lee's Birthday they built him after being caught was the way I saw it ??????? Dixie

All eyes were at the front of the church on the couple who had waited so long for this day and that most felt deserved this day as much as anyone in Hazzard. No one noticed the brunette slip into the church and take a seat far in the back. She was about the same age as Bo and Luke with collar lenght hair. Her eyes settled on Luke as she sat down. As she listened to the words the Mr. Brown spoke to the couple she could not help shead a tear for she knew deep in her heart she could have stood in the place opposite Luke Duke at one time a very long time ago. She knew she had made her choices way back then. She would and could live with those choices but at this moment she did admit only to herself that she wondered 'what if '. She had had a good life though things never are the fairytale you dream of ......... her thoughts went back to a time when a dear friend had called her and asked, 'You made choices, married, and divorced. If you could know what you know now and could go back in time would you have chosen Luke?'. Her answer that day had been, 'No. I've had a good life, had fun, I have no regrets.' She thought to herself, 'I may not have regrets but who am I kidding? I used to see this scene in my dreams for years.' She sighed as Mr. Brown asked, "Is there anyone present who knows a reason this couple should not be united in Holy Matrimony?" You could have heard a pin drop during the brief pause before Mr. Brown coontinued, "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride. I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Lucas Duke." Luke gently lifted Dixie's veil. The audio recording later will discover that at this point Dixie and Luke had both let out a sigh of relief as they looked into each others eyes, smiled, then kissed most passionately like they had been practicing the last several days. After a slight laugh on his part Bo moved to Luke's side as Beth moved to Dixie's side, Bo tapped Luke on the shoulder where everyone couldn't see as Beth handed Dixie her bouquet. The four tried hard to contain their laughter. Luke took Dixie by the arm, she picked up her long train and the started toward the back of the church followed by Bo and Beth, Jeb and Debbie, Coy and Ruth Ann, Vance and Caroline, Cooter and Daisy, Jake and Laura, Bo, Jr. and Jessica, then Jesse and Michaela. Jesse figured to get out of the church and to the food even he could take Michaela's arm. The crowd hurried to watch the newlyweds drive off and to get to the Boar's Nest before all the tables were taken. Luke lifted Dixie into the window of the General Lee who to Luke's surprise wasn't decorated at his request. On the church steps Luther fussed, "Do you believe them? Using that car when all the others were around." His own wife (even after all this time apart) said, "Would you let them have fun? This is their day and far to long in coming, but I'll leave that subject alone. Nothing is going to ruin this day for Dixie. Come on." The brunette managed to slip out of the church without being noticed by anyone. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ In the General Lee, Luke looked at his bride and said, "Well, Mrs. Duke are you happy?" Dixie looked at him as he drove the familiar car and said, "Yes! Do you know up until we started down the isle I couldn't help but think something would happen to keep us apart again." A tear filled her eye. "Look when I make a promise I make a promise. Of course it may take me years but I keep my promises." said Luke. "I love you, Luke Duke." said Dixie. "I love you more Dixie Duke!" Luke replied with certainty. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ At the Boar's Nest there were tables put together at one side for the entire bridal party with name tags at each glass to insure the seating arrangement was as Dixie planned which would only last long enough for the short reception and pictures before the real party waould get under way. Dixie had made sure that Debbie and Jeb were seated together. To the side of this table was a much smaller one with a four tiered wedding cake complete with a waterfall underneath. It was solid white with blue ribbons and doves topped with the bride and groom. The brides cake was decorated with a set of handcuffs and the word 'Corrections' above it while the grooms cake had a U.S. Forest Service Smokejumper Fire Patch on it since they were both very involved in their jobs. There was also a small table set up with a bride's book for the guest to sign as well as many rice bags. Luke and Dixie walked in several minutes before the rest of the crowd. Luke walked over to the lady who was fussing with the last minute touches and said, "Brenda, thank you so much for everything. Do you remember Dixie?" Brenda smiled, "Congratulations! Yes, I remember Dixie though it's been awhile. Luke, I once thought you'd be a part of my family. Just be happy and take care of each other." she said as the others began to come in. Luke hugged the older lady that he had once been so much apart of her family, "Thank you again for everything." Dixie echoed Luke, "Yes, thank you. Everything looks beautiful." Brenda replied, "It's the least I could do for you both. Consider it my wedding present." They both knew that cakes like this from a bakery would cost a fortune. Luke had talked with her prior to this and asked her to do the reception intending to pay her well. He spoke up, "Brenda I can't let you do all this ......." "Well, it's already done. Now, go enjoy yourselves!" she said. As Luke began to turn he said, "Mark is in town." Brenda simply nodded. Things had been difficult between her family and her oldest son for years now. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ After eveyone arrived and got sort of settled down Bo stood up and said, "Could everyone take your places?" He waited for everyone to get to their tables before saying, "Luke I wished Uncle Jesse was here to see all this. ......" He paused to clear the lump from his throat. "He should be standing here before you all not me. ....." Bo continued .............. Cue Beth

MaximRecoil stated just what I was going to about the vinyln (Spelling?) top I had a 1968 Charger which had that chrome piece on it. You could even tell where had cut the top off it before putting a quick white paint job on it. It looked like Cale's white Charger. Dixie