Very nice first ASJ fanfic! An interesting premise-what happens when Heyes physically can't talk. I liked the steady way you developed the plot and the characters. I'm curious about the sheriff, though, and wonder if you'll write more about that plot point. Also curious about Kid and Cat! And as a teacher myself: Thanks!

How interesting to have Heyes go to the Big Apple! I never expected this turn of events. What a frightening adventure for him, unable to talk to anyone. What if he gets lost? Or god help him, mugged? I'm delighted you're keeping with the story so diligently. Can't wait to read more.

Very well written story! I'm guessing this was inspired by Pete Duel's appearance in Marcus Welby MD? If not, I still imagined that in my mind while reading this. Looking forward to seeing what else you write! (:

Thanks, all! By the way, RosieAnnie, the sense that God gave geese line is from Garrison Keillor.
Helen

What a terrific story, Helen! I feel a little sad here, because the partners are separating. It sounds as if they are each finding new lives apart from each other - Kid with Cat, and Heyes in New York, where his "mathematical genius" may find expression and opportunity. My favorite line here might be "You ain't got the sense that God gave geese!" I'm looking forward to seeing how Heyes does in an environment that's completely alien to him.

You're taking the characters in a direction that I certainly didn't anticipate, and I love it! I thought you'd be wrapping this up pretty quickly, but it looks like there's a lot to go. Thanks for getting these chapters out so quickly! I am really enjoying this story. I'm kind of worried about Kid and Sheriff Wilde, though. It sounds like both Kid and Heyes recognizied him, but from where?

Please post the next story soon.

What a wonderful story, Helen! You took one of the things Heyes treasures the most, communication, and took it away from him. Was very interesting to google aphasia - had not heard of it before. Sad that they will have to be separated, but I'm hoping it'll be for a short time. Enjoying this story and very much appreciate how quickly you have been posting chapters.

Helen, you are writing this so well. I can feel Heyes's struggles and his irrational shame at his condition. Loved the scene with the crabby miner. Keep 'em coming and thank you!

This story just keeps getting better and better! And now, Heyes has a good chance of learning to speak again. Keep up the good work :) I'm really enjoying it!

I'm enjoying the details of this story so much; such as Heyes's small triumphs as well as his awareness of his limitations. Great last line, too!

Beautifully written, Helen. Keep the chapters coming!

Wow, you are getting this story out in record time! I hardly have time to comment before there's more chapters (not that it's a bad thing):) There is a lot going on here and I wondered where you are headed. The Kid sure has a lot to worry about and now the sheriff suspects something. Heyes is on the mend, though, so hopefully he can be of help. Keep up the good work.

It's coming along great Helen.

Wow, Helen, this is really terrific. You've got a lot of different balls in the air - Heyes' condition, the posse, Sheriff Wilde, Kid's concern, the Kid/Cat relationship - and you're balancing them all beautifully. You've got me in suspense! Please post the next chapters soon!