I will be doing a new book! I don't know how well this one is. It just came to me. :P So if you want to start reading this one click on this link.
http://lovetravelsbook.blogspot.com/
It's called Love Travels. I hope y'all like it!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Monday, April 25, 2011
Chapter Twelve
Chapter 12
I sit on the edge of the pond with Will. Will is reclining as I sit. I feel complete contentment as I look out on the water. The pond is our special spot. This is the place we went to all the time when we were kids. It’s a week since that wonderful Independence Day. We have not told our news yet. We wanted to wait, give Josephine and Arthur some time to bask in with their news. We plan on telling everyone tonight after supper. I fill with excitement when I think of telling everyone.
I packed a picnic lunch for us. Will lies on the blanket as I sit and look at the water. I look at Will and see the adoration in his eyes. If I live to be one hundred I will never get enough of seeing that in his eyes. He reaches up and teaks my nose with his fore finger. I smile. With the same finger he traces the line of freckles on my face. I love how he loves my freckles. My entire life I hated my freckles, and Will loves them. I lean forward and he places a kiss on my nose. I close my eyes to treasure this moment. I pray God gives me and Will many, many more of these special moments together.
Will stands and reaches for my hands. I place my hands in his and he pulls me up. He pulls me close and I place my cheek on his chest and listen to his heartbeat. I wind my arms around his waist. He strokes my hair. I have never felt so secure than right now in Will’s arms. He whispers words of love in my ear. He kisses the top of my head. I smile to myself. If someone had told me a year ago that I’d be in Will’s arms with him whispering words of love in my ear I’d have laughed. Now I just sigh and smile.
He releases me reluctantly. I step out of his embrace. I start picking up the food. He folds the quilt, and places it on top of the basket. I am hesitant to leave the pond. This is my favorite spot in Whispering Hills, next of course to Dot’s store. I turn to Will.
“Ya still mess up skippin’ rocks?” Will asks me with a teasing grin.
“Now, Mr. Duncan, are you insinuating that me Miss Winthorpe messes up anything?” I place my hands over my heart dramatically and say in my best Southern Belle impersonation. He grins. I smile sweetly and bat my eyelashes at him. “Well, Darlin’ we’re just going to have to fix that now aren’t we?” I sashay to the edge of the pond and pick up a small rock. I toss a grin over my shoulder at Will who’s walking towards me. “Watch and learn, Mr. Duncan.” I flick my wrist as I toss the pebble into the water and watch it sink. Will is now standing next to me and leans his head back and laughs. I turn to him with a mock upset look on my face. “Oh, do stop laughing. Do you not know it’s not polite to laugh at a lady’s actions?”
“More like miss actions milady.” He flashes that big grin. I swat his arm and pick up another pebble. I try again with the same results. I stomp my foot. I never could get this right. I glare at Will, and he laughs harder. I pick up pebble after pebble and get the same results with all. I turn to Will and see him successfully skip a rock across five times then see the rock sink. He turns to me with a big grin.
“Lizzy, it’s all in the wrists. If you flick your wrist the right way it’ll skip. Here. Watch.” He picks up a rock and it skips four times. He turns back to me with a that’s-all-it-takes look on his face. “Ya want me to teach ya?”
“No, thank you. I’d rather leave that pass time to people who’d enjoy it.” I turn back and head towards the basket. “We should start heading back.” I throw over my shoulder. I hear Will jog to catch up with me. He stops next to me. He picks up the basket and hands me the quilt.
“Want to race back?” I ask him. I see the amused glint in his eyes as a yes. I hike up my skirts and start running towards home. I look back and see the bewildered look on his face and see him running after me. I pick up my speed.
I feel my foot hit something then the throbbing pain in my toes. At the same time I stop to look, I hear Will yell then feel the impact of his body slamming into mine. The momentum of him hitting me causes me to tumble down the hill. I roll down feeling rocks and sticks jamming into my body. I hear Will rolling slightly above me.
I land on level ground, panting and feeling sticks and grass in my hair. During the roll my hair-pins have fallen out and my hair lies in a pile of matted black mess. I see Will finish rolling down landing next to me. I hear his throaty laugh and start laughing as well. We lay there on the ground with grass and twigs in our hair laughing.
I do not know how long we laid there. Once we stopped laughing we started pointing out things in the clouds. Around us things from the picnic basket lay scattered all over. I see the sun wants to set. I sit up and look at Will. He sits up as well. We start picking up the things that fell out of the basket. We needed to be home long ago, but I am having such fun I do not want this day to end. Once we finish picking up, we start walking towards home once again. This time in a much slower pace. I thank God once again for allowing me to have these kinds of moments for the rest of my life.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We are all seated in the parlor, Ma knitting, Pa reading the paper. Josephine and Arthur are in their own world. Gamma and Anna are playing a game of chess. Grandpa is helping Anna. Will and Mr. John are sitting on the sofa next to me. They are discussing current prices for horses. I sit here nervous as to what the reaction will be to Will and I’s announcement. I look around the room and analyze what I think their reaction will be. I catch Will’s eye sharing a secret smile with him. I catch Mr. John’s gaze and see him smile rather proudly. I wonder what that’s about. I look back at Will. He smiles and winks. He grabs hold of my hand and squeezes. I nod. He stands up and pulls me up with him. He clears his throat to get everyone’s attention. I see eight pairs of eyes turn to us. Will takes hold of my hand again. I see him look at each person and then back to me. Pa puts his paper down and smiles encouragingly at Will. I look back at Will. Pa knew? How did he know?
“Lizzy and I have an announcement” Will says. Everyone gives us their full attention. “Well, I have asked Lizzy to be my wife and she has accepted!”
Looks of bewilderment, then shock and finally joy show across everyone’s faces excluding Pa. Ma jumps up and hugs me then Will congratulating us, welcoming Will officially to the family. Gamma and Grandpa follow suit. Anna jabbers of how she knew all along and was just waiting for it to happen. Arthur and Josephine are more refined they hug us and congratulate us. Mr. John is last. He saunters over and slaps Will on the back.
“Will my boy, I don’t think you can get any better then this little lady here. I’m tickled pink, like a hog after a bout of rain rolling in a mud puddle. It’s about time ya do something about these feelings son.” He hugs me then sits back down. I share a smile with Will. He squeezes my hand and leads me back to the sofa and helps me sit down. I agree with Mr. John. I’m tickled pink, like a hog after a bout of rain rolling in a mud puddle.
God bless!
I sit on the edge of the pond with Will. Will is reclining as I sit. I feel complete contentment as I look out on the water. The pond is our special spot. This is the place we went to all the time when we were kids. It’s a week since that wonderful Independence Day. We have not told our news yet. We wanted to wait, give Josephine and Arthur some time to bask in with their news. We plan on telling everyone tonight after supper. I fill with excitement when I think of telling everyone.
I packed a picnic lunch for us. Will lies on the blanket as I sit and look at the water. I look at Will and see the adoration in his eyes. If I live to be one hundred I will never get enough of seeing that in his eyes. He reaches up and teaks my nose with his fore finger. I smile. With the same finger he traces the line of freckles on my face. I love how he loves my freckles. My entire life I hated my freckles, and Will loves them. I lean forward and he places a kiss on my nose. I close my eyes to treasure this moment. I pray God gives me and Will many, many more of these special moments together.
Will stands and reaches for my hands. I place my hands in his and he pulls me up. He pulls me close and I place my cheek on his chest and listen to his heartbeat. I wind my arms around his waist. He strokes my hair. I have never felt so secure than right now in Will’s arms. He whispers words of love in my ear. He kisses the top of my head. I smile to myself. If someone had told me a year ago that I’d be in Will’s arms with him whispering words of love in my ear I’d have laughed. Now I just sigh and smile.
He releases me reluctantly. I step out of his embrace. I start picking up the food. He folds the quilt, and places it on top of the basket. I am hesitant to leave the pond. This is my favorite spot in Whispering Hills, next of course to Dot’s store. I turn to Will.
“Ya still mess up skippin’ rocks?” Will asks me with a teasing grin.
“Now, Mr. Duncan, are you insinuating that me Miss Winthorpe messes up anything?” I place my hands over my heart dramatically and say in my best Southern Belle impersonation. He grins. I smile sweetly and bat my eyelashes at him. “Well, Darlin’ we’re just going to have to fix that now aren’t we?” I sashay to the edge of the pond and pick up a small rock. I toss a grin over my shoulder at Will who’s walking towards me. “Watch and learn, Mr. Duncan.” I flick my wrist as I toss the pebble into the water and watch it sink. Will is now standing next to me and leans his head back and laughs. I turn to him with a mock upset look on my face. “Oh, do stop laughing. Do you not know it’s not polite to laugh at a lady’s actions?”
“More like miss actions milady.” He flashes that big grin. I swat his arm and pick up another pebble. I try again with the same results. I stomp my foot. I never could get this right. I glare at Will, and he laughs harder. I pick up pebble after pebble and get the same results with all. I turn to Will and see him successfully skip a rock across five times then see the rock sink. He turns to me with a big grin.
“Lizzy, it’s all in the wrists. If you flick your wrist the right way it’ll skip. Here. Watch.” He picks up a rock and it skips four times. He turns back to me with a that’s-all-it-takes look on his face. “Ya want me to teach ya?”
“No, thank you. I’d rather leave that pass time to people who’d enjoy it.” I turn back and head towards the basket. “We should start heading back.” I throw over my shoulder. I hear Will jog to catch up with me. He stops next to me. He picks up the basket and hands me the quilt.
“Want to race back?” I ask him. I see the amused glint in his eyes as a yes. I hike up my skirts and start running towards home. I look back and see the bewildered look on his face and see him running after me. I pick up my speed.
I feel my foot hit something then the throbbing pain in my toes. At the same time I stop to look, I hear Will yell then feel the impact of his body slamming into mine. The momentum of him hitting me causes me to tumble down the hill. I roll down feeling rocks and sticks jamming into my body. I hear Will rolling slightly above me.
I land on level ground, panting and feeling sticks and grass in my hair. During the roll my hair-pins have fallen out and my hair lies in a pile of matted black mess. I see Will finish rolling down landing next to me. I hear his throaty laugh and start laughing as well. We lay there on the ground with grass and twigs in our hair laughing.
I do not know how long we laid there. Once we stopped laughing we started pointing out things in the clouds. Around us things from the picnic basket lay scattered all over. I see the sun wants to set. I sit up and look at Will. He sits up as well. We start picking up the things that fell out of the basket. We needed to be home long ago, but I am having such fun I do not want this day to end. Once we finish picking up, we start walking towards home once again. This time in a much slower pace. I thank God once again for allowing me to have these kinds of moments for the rest of my life.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We are all seated in the parlor, Ma knitting, Pa reading the paper. Josephine and Arthur are in their own world. Gamma and Anna are playing a game of chess. Grandpa is helping Anna. Will and Mr. John are sitting on the sofa next to me. They are discussing current prices for horses. I sit here nervous as to what the reaction will be to Will and I’s announcement. I look around the room and analyze what I think their reaction will be. I catch Will’s eye sharing a secret smile with him. I catch Mr. John’s gaze and see him smile rather proudly. I wonder what that’s about. I look back at Will. He smiles and winks. He grabs hold of my hand and squeezes. I nod. He stands up and pulls me up with him. He clears his throat to get everyone’s attention. I see eight pairs of eyes turn to us. Will takes hold of my hand again. I see him look at each person and then back to me. Pa puts his paper down and smiles encouragingly at Will. I look back at Will. Pa knew? How did he know?
“Lizzy and I have an announcement” Will says. Everyone gives us their full attention. “Well, I have asked Lizzy to be my wife and she has accepted!”
Looks of bewilderment, then shock and finally joy show across everyone’s faces excluding Pa. Ma jumps up and hugs me then Will congratulating us, welcoming Will officially to the family. Gamma and Grandpa follow suit. Anna jabbers of how she knew all along and was just waiting for it to happen. Arthur and Josephine are more refined they hug us and congratulate us. Mr. John is last. He saunters over and slaps Will on the back.
“Will my boy, I don’t think you can get any better then this little lady here. I’m tickled pink, like a hog after a bout of rain rolling in a mud puddle. It’s about time ya do something about these feelings son.” He hugs me then sits back down. I share a smile with Will. He squeezes my hand and leads me back to the sofa and helps me sit down. I agree with Mr. John. I’m tickled pink, like a hog after a bout of rain rolling in a mud puddle.
God bless!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Chapter Eleven
Chapter 11
July 3rd 1891
“Are y’all going to the Independence Day celebration in town?” Charity asks me while we’re walking to town. I nod. I would not miss it for anything. Fours months have passed since I reconciled with Charity. We have become great friends. Its funny how one little thing can change your world in a blink.
We are walking toward the restaurant in the boarding house. Charity is wearing a light blue skirt with a black blouse. She’s wearing a matching hat. The blue really brings out her blue eyes. I’m wearing a deep red skirt and a white blouse, with a red hat.
I see people bustling around getting the town ready for the party tomorrow. I see Winnie walking toward the mercantile. I wave and she returns the wave and smiles. Two men are bickering in front of the mercantile. I hear a snippet of their conversation.
“I’m tellin’ ya Whispering Hills needs a saloon. As it is I’s need to go to New Hope to get some good whiskey. I ain’t likin’ to do that. The missus hates it.” The balding man says. The younger man shakes his head in disagreement.
“Sir, I hate to say this but I disagree. That’ll just add conflict to the town. I don’t take a liking to that.” The younger man has an English accent! The balding man grunts. I stop to listen.
“Whaddya know of town stuff anyway? Yore new in town.” The balding man spits tobacco on the sidewalk and nearly lands on my dress. I step back. “Hey lady, ya git outta here. This here is men folk talk.” He grunts again and turns back to the younger man. The younger man turns to the balding man and he glares.
“I apologize on behalf of this man. He obviously does not know how to talk to a lady.” He walks away from the balding man towards me. He bows in front of me. “Edward Walcott.”
“Elizabeth Winthorpe.” I curtsy. He takes my hand and kisses the top of it. When he lets go I hear the balding man curse. Mr. Walcott turns to the balding man and glares again.
“Sir, you need to learn how to speak in front of women.”
“I ain’t got no need to. Their too feebleminded to care.” I gasp. How could he say I’m feebleminded?
“Mr. Belden I ask that you apologize to Miss Winthorpe.” He turns back to me with astonishment. He quirks a brow up. “Wait. Winthorpe? As in Thomas Winthorpe the founder of Whispering Hills?”
“Yes, my Pa and Patrick Richardson are really close friends. They came to this vast area and decided to start a town here. I have lived in Tennessee all my life.” I smile remembering when I was just two Pa moved our family of four plus Gamma and Gampa here. Mr. Walcott’s smile is breathtaking. Mr. Belden grunts, spits more tobacco and stalks off. I hear someone call my name. I look to see Charity running toward me and Mr. Walcott. She stops within a few feet of us. I see confusion written on her face. She looks at Mr. Walcott and then back at me. “Lizzy, I make it to the boarding house and find you not next to me like you were. I then see you over here.” She looks again to Mr. Walcott.
“Charity this is Mr. Walcott. Mr. Walcott this is Charity Cook.” I make the introduction. Mr. Walcott bows and Charity curtsies. Mr. Walcott takes Charity’s hand a like he did with me kiss the top of it.
“I’m pleased to make your acquaintance Miss Cook.”
“Likewise Mr. Walcott.” Charity turns to me and adds. “Come on Lizzy, I have them holding a table for us.” She grabs my elbow and starts to lead me toward the boarding house. I stop her and turn around to face Mr. Walcott.
“Mr. Walcott would you like to join us for dinner at the boarding house. Mrs. Ratcliff’s fried chicken with gravy is divine.” I smile. Mr. Walcott’s face splits into a grin.
“I would love to join you two lovely ladies.” He extends his arms for us to take. We each take an arm and head towards the boarding house.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“That meal was delightful Mrs. Ratcliff.” Mr. Walcott compliments Mrs. Ratcliff. Mrs. Ratcliff smiles in response to Mr. Walcott.
“Oh, how you flatter me Mr. Walcott. I simply am using my Grandma’s recipe. She taught me everything I know.”
“Well, it’s too bad she is not here so I can think her in person for teaching you some wonderful recipes.” Mr. Walcott smiles one his wonderful smiles. I look over to Charity. She looks like she’s hanging on every word he says. Well, Charity is smitten with Mr. Walcott. I stand hoping to send Charity a silent cue. Does not work she’s still entranced by Mr. Walcott. I clear my throat to catch their attention. Nothing.
“Charity, I think we should start heading home. It’s a long walk home.” Charity finally looks at me. She blushes profusely. She nods and gets up.
“I hate to leave Mr. Walcott, but we have quite a walk home. It was a pleasure meeting you.” Mr. Walcott stands.
“Why don’t you let me escort you lovely ladies home? I would love to talk some more with you two.” He smiles at Charity. Oh, so the feelings are reciprocal.
“That would be great. I’d love for you to escort us home.” Mr. Walcott smiles and offers his arms to us once again. We head out of the boarding house and down the road leading toward our homes. Once we were out of town Charity starts asking Mr. Walcott questions.
“Mr. Walcott where are you from? Its obvious you’re not from Tennessee.”
“England, Miss Cook. I’m from Bath England.”
“Fascinating! I would love to visit England. Why are you here in Tennessee?”
“Business, my father does business with someone here so he sent me to finish it.”
“I see. Do you have any siblings?”
“Yes I do. I have three brothers and three siblings. I am the middle child.”
“Six siblings! Amazing, I wish I had siblings. I’m the only child of my parents.”
“What about you Miss Winthorpe? Do you have siblings?” Mr. Walcott asks me.
“I do, I have two sisters. I’m the middle child as well.”
“And Miss Cook are you from Tennessee?” Mr. Walcott asks Charity.
“No, I’m not. I’m from New York.” Charity answers.
“Why did your family decide to move to Tennessee?”
“Papa wanted to move us from the tension going on up north. The War Between the States was quite bad up there. And people were still mad up there.”
“Ah, yes I heard of the war that was being fought. Miss Winthorpe, were your family here during the war?”
“No, they weren’t. My Gamma, Grandpa and Ma lived in Georgia during it. My Grandpa served on the South during it. My Pa lived in South Carolina during the war. His family then relocated to Georgia and that’s when he met my Ma.” Ma has told me that story over and over.
“Mr. Walcott how long are you planning on staying in Tennessee?” Charity asks.
“I’m not sure a month maybe.” He smiles. We walk in silence for awhile. I sneak a look at Mr. Walcott and Charity. They seem totally unaware of the sights or people around them. I see a courting between them coming up soon. Even if it’s just for a month he might come back. I smile. I’m truly happy for Charity.
“Miss Winthorpe you look like the cat that caught the canary. Whatever are you smiling about?” Mr. Walcott asks me. I look at him.
“Oh, just thinking.” We walk some more in silence. Soon I see the rise of Charity’s house. We head up the path towards her house. Charity heads up the porch and turns to us. She wraps me in a hug. I return the embrace. “I’ll see you tomorrow Lizzy.” She turns to Mr. Walcott. “It was a pleasure meeting you Mr. Walcott. I hope to see you again real soon.”
“Likewise Miss Cook.” He takes her hand and kisses the top of it.
“Oh! Mr. Walcott we’re having festivities for Independence Day. Why don’t you accompany us? We’re going to have loads of food. And band to dance to and tons of games. Please say you’ll come.” She pleads.
“I’d be honored to accompany you two lovely ladies.”
“It’s not just us. It’s the entire Cook family which is just her and her parents. My whole family is coming. Plus Mr. John and Will. I’m sure you can ride with Charity and her family. My family does not have enough room for us!”
“Of course you can ride with my family. Meet us here at around noon.” Charity smiles.
“I shall be here at noon then.” He takes my arm and we head out to my house. I turn around and wave at Charity. She waves back. This is turning out better than I thought.
Now if only I can get my feelings for Will figured out. My feelings for him are an enigma for sure. I recall what Charity said the day we reconciled. She said Will only had eyes for me. If that’s true why does he not do anything about it? My feelings for him are all jumbled up I’m not sure what they are. Friendship? Affection? Or love? I wish I knew. I shake my head to try to clear it.
“Miss Winthorpe, who is this man that’s got you confused?” Mr. Walcott asks. I look at him. How did he know? He stops walking and places his finger under my chin forcing me to look at him. “Look at me.” He gently orders. I slowly raise my gaze to his face. “Better. Now who is he? Someone from town?” I shake my head. “A neighbor’s son?” Again I shake my head. “Ah, I know it’s that Will fellow you mentioned earlier.” I feel the blush creeping up my neck up to my hairline. I see him smile. “What are your feelings for him?” He starts walking again. How can I confess that I don’t know? I’m so confused. “How do you feel when he’s around you?” He looks at me.
“I’m not sure. I feel this weird feeling in the pit of my stomach and feel my heart do this weird flip. I feel like I’ll melt when he looks at me, like it’s just me and him in the room when he smiles at me.” I shrug.
“Ah, I see. So you’re in love with him?” I stop walking and stare up at him. Is he mad? I’m not in love with Will. I’m friends with Will. He just chuckles. “I see that look. You think I’m nuts. But I know the feeling. I’m in love myself. Has he confessed anything?” I shake my head. “Has tried to?” I think. Was that what he tried to say the night of the Church pageant practice? I’m not sure. I shrug. I’m not sure if he has. “I can bet on it, that he loves you as well.” I try to think of something to change the subject. Then I realize. He said he’s in love himself. Oh, Charity is going to be so upset.
“Mr. Walcott, now who’s this girl that’s caught your fancy?” I smile.
“Annie Goldberg. She’s the daughter of one of my father’s investors. Since the minute I saw her I knew she was the one. I plan to ask her to marry me when I get back.” He smiles that amazing smile. I return the smile. “Now back to you. Are you going to admit your feelings or are you going to keep denying your feelings.” I feel the red creeping back up again. “You look fetching when you blush, my dear Miss Winthorpe.” I see my house up the rise. I quicken my steps. The sooner I get home the less time I have to explain my feelings. Mr. Walcott quickens his steps as well.
“Miss Winthorpe, I’m not trying to make you feel uncomfortable. I just know you’ll feel better if you admit your feelings.”
I stop and turn around to look at him. Do I love Will? I think of all the times he looked at me. I noticed something in his eyes every time, but never took the time to examine them. I feel the flip-flop of my heart just thinking of him. I gasp. I love William Duncan! I place my hands on my face and giggle. I feel my smile going ever bigger. I start to twirl in a circle, not caring who saw me. I love Will! I stop twirling and look at Mr. Walcott. He’s grinning like the cat that caught the canary. I laugh. It took this stranger to get me to figure out my confusing feelings. I run and give Mr. Walcott a hug. He just chuckles all the more. He releases me and starts to run up the hill. I hike up my skirts and follow. I don’t care who sees me. I need to get to the man I love. I make it up the hill and accept Mr. Walcott’s hand to help me up. I finish running to the house. I see Ma and Pa sitting on the porch. I run up the steps and stop in front of them. Ma stands up and glares at me. I smile and look at Mr. Walcott coming up the porch steps.
“Ma, Pa, I like you to meet Mr. Edward Walcott. Mr. Walcott meet my parents Thomas Winthorpe and Catherine Winthorpe.”
“Pleased to meet you sir.” Mr. Winthorpe says as he shakes Pa’s hand. He turns to Ma and kisses the top of her hand. “Now I know where Miss Winthorpe gets her beauty.” I see Ma blush. I can see why that Annie girl is smitten with him. He’s such a charmer.
“Ma, Pa Mr. Walcott is here on business. I met him in town while I was out with Charity. He offered to escort us home.”
I see Will in the barn entrance staring at Mr. Walcott. He notices me and I smile. I excuse myself and walk towards the barn. Will is still glaring at Mr. Walcott. I smile to myself. Will’s jealous. I reach Will and place my hand on his arm. He turns and smiles one of his amazing smiles. He looks back at Mr. Walcott.
“Will how was your day?” I ask hoping to make him stop glaring at Mr. Walcott. He turns to me and sighs.
“Great, Lizzy, I finally got place a saddle on ol’ Dutch today.”
“Oh, Will that’s great. I knew you’d break him soon. Soon you’ll be able to ride him.” I smile at him. I see Mr. Walcott leave the porch and head our way. I wave to him to come here. Will glares at Mr. Walcott again. Mr. Walcott reaches us and smiles at me. He winks at me. I see Will’s jaw clench. I place my hand on his arm again and turn to Mr. Walcott.
“Mr. Walcott I’d you to meet William Duncan. He’s the best stable boy/trainer this side of the Atlantic. Will I’d like you meet Mr. Edward Walcott. He’s here on business. I met him in town and he offered to escort me and Charity home.” I see Will’s jaw clench harder and reluctantly shake Mr. Walcott’s hand. “Unfortunately Mr. Walcott can’t stay long. He’s got to get back home to his Annie. Don’t you Mr. Walcott?” I add to relieve Will. Mr. Walcott winks again and nods.
“I do, it was nice meeting you all but I must get back. I shall see you tomorrow at the celebration. Noon right?”
“Yes. I shall see you tomorrow.” He smiles and walks off. I look at Will and see him visibly relax. I squeeze Will’s shoulder and turn to him. He looks at me with those amazing eyes. I sigh. I look quickly look at the porch and see Ma and Pa heading inside. I turn to Will again. I see an emotion in his eyes that I now know must be love. He leans towards me and I feel myself leaning towards him. He’s within inches of me.
I hear a barking and jump back. I see Rocky and Sally running towards us. A second later I feel Rocky’s paws on my shoulders. I feel his slobbery tongue on my face. I turn my head trying to him from licking me.
“Rocky down” Will commands. I smile, good ol’ Rocky. I start laughing. Will joins in and soon I feel tears streaming down my face. I see it’s getting late. I’m sure to be expected inside soon. I turn to Will and smile.
“Good night Will.”
“Sweet dreams.” He turns and walks off towards his cabin. I sigh and look at Rocky wagging his tail looking oh so innocent. I pat his head and walk inside. Hopefully next time there won’t be a dog nearby.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
July 4th 1891
The town of Whispering Hills went all out for this year’s celebration of Independence Day. I walk towards the food tables between Anna Mr. John. Ma and Pa trail behind. Josephine, Arthur and Will are ahead of us carrying the desserts. Josephine is wearing an odd mysterious smile. It’s like she’s glowing. I wonder if she and Arthur have an announcement today. I smile. It’s about time they had a little one.
I see the band setting up to play. I look to the food tables. It’s a miracle they don’t bend under the weight of all that food. I hear a whistle and look up at the head of the food tables. Pastor Franklin is about to bless the food. I hear someone approach me. I look to my left to see Mr. Walcott standing next to me. I smile acknowledging his presence. I feel rather than see Will approach my right. I turn to look at him and see he’s glaring at Mr. Walcott. I place my hand on his arm to get his attention. He looks at me and my heart does a flutter. I smile at him hoping he’ll forget about Mr. Walcott. Nope. His jaw is still clenched and he periodically glares at Mr. Walcott.
I turn back at Pastor Franklin. He is making a speech about freedom and how important it is. I zone out. Instead my thoughts go to the man on my right. Does he love me? He obviously feels something, or he would not be jealous of Mr. Walcott. I turn to look at Mr. Walcott. I feel nothing but friendship for him. I pray hoping Charity will find happiness with Mr. Walcott.
I see everyone bow their heads and do the same. I listen to Pastor Franklin thank God for America’s freedom from Briton, the freedom of speech. He also thanks God for the people of Whispering Hills and thanks God for Pa and Mr. Patrick for risking everything and founding this wonderful town. Everyone echoes amen and starts to dig in to the food.
I turn to Mr. Walcott but see he’s busy with Charity. I decide to talk to him later. I start to walk towards the food table when I feel Will walking to catch up with me. I turn to him and smile. He returns the smile with one of his amazing smiles. I feel a flutter in my stomach. Will I ever get used to this feeling? He falls in step beside me. We quickly fill our plates and silently head for the quilt Ma placed under a tree. I sit down near Josephine and Will sits Indian style next to me. We all eat in silence savoring the flavor of the food.
Arthur, sitting next to Josephine, clears his throat and smiles sheepishly. I turn to Josephine who’s looking at Arthur lovingly. She slowly nods to him. Arthur stands up and helps Josephine to stand. He places his arm around her shoulders in an affectionate manner.
“Josephine and I have an announcement.” He turns to Josephine and I see tears swimming in her eyes. All eyes turn to them. “We’re going to have a baby!” Cheers break out throughout our little group. Hugs and tears are shared. I hug Josephine.
“Is it odd that I already had a clue as to what was the announcement before you even mentioned it?”
“Of course not. We were going to wait but I could not hold my excitement. I went to see Doctor Morgan yesterday and he confirmed what I already suspected.” Josephine is glowing. I hug her again and then turn to Arthur and give him a hug.
“Arthur I’m immensely happy for you both.” I feel tears of joy in my eyes.
I turn to see Will staring at me. I cannot interpret what is the emotion in his eyes. I feel lost in his eyes. It feels like everyone around us vanished and it was just us. Not wanting to break the connection I continue to stare into his eyes. I feel someone tug on my arm and breaking the connection look at Charity looking at me oddly. I mentally shake my head. I look once more at Will then turn to Charity.
“What was with all the cheering going over here?” She asks. I steer her away from the blanket and head toward the band playing.
“Josephine and Arthur had an announcement.”
“Ooh, do tell.” She asks expectantly.
“It seems we will have another little one running around by next year.” I hear Charity squeal. She grabs my hands and spins me in a circle. I stop her. I try a scowl, but fail and end up grinning from ear to ear. We walk some in silence. She then stops and turns to me. “Lizzy, what’s going on between you and Will?” She asks suddenly. I turn to her with a look of shock. “Oh, don’t give that fake shocked face. I saw you two staring at each other like no one else was on earth but you two.”
“Honestly, I don’t know. There’s times where I feel there’s something between us. Then others I feel there’s a chasm between us.”
“Do you love him?” No reason to deny it.
“Yes.” Charity squeals again.
“Oh, honestly Charity do you have to squeal? The whole town’s gonna hear you.”
“I’m sorry, but something that big you can’t expect me to stay calm.” She starts walking towards the picnickers again.
I catch a glimpse of Will talking to one of the men. As if he could feel my eyes on him, he looks towards me. It feels like I fall even more in love with him, when he looks at me like that. I sigh. I walk away dreaming of him pulling me into his arms and declaring his love. The things my mind conjures up.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As the sun went down, the celebration moved to our extra barn built for this purpose. The band is setting up, ready to play for the eager people waiting to dance. All the older and the children residents of Whispering Hills had decided to call it night. Ma and Pa and a couple of other adults are staying. Afterward we’ll be shooting off fireworks in the back pasture. I always look forward to the fireworks. The display of different colors exploding in the sky is stunning. The fireworks are like God spreading specks of benediction as bright as day.
The band starts to play the cords of Dixie’s Land. I sway to the music. I see couples lining up to start the Virginia Reel. I stand off in the corner giving the dancers plenty of room. I see Will striding towards me. I smile at him. He bows in front of me and takes my hand in his.
“May I have this dance Lizzy?” He asks smiling.
“Aren’t you supposed to ask saying Miss Winthorpe?” I teasingly ask. I see his eyes sparkle with amusement. He playfully smacks his forehead.
“Of course. Miss Winthorpe may I have this dance?” He asks again. I giggle.
“I’d be honored Mr. Duncan.”
He takes my hand and leads toward the other dancers lined up and ready. He swings me around the dance floor. I don’t think I’ve laughed this much in a long time. Before I know it I’ve danced three dances with Will. When the fourth dance ended he led me to the table holding punch. He hands me a cup of punch and gets one for himself. The band gives the dancers some time to rest before continuing. I see Charity talking to Mr. Walcott. I smile sadly. The fact that he is taken, breaks my heart for Charity.
“Lizzy, why do ya have a melancholy smile on your face?” Will asks next to me.
I sigh. “Charity’s talking to Mr. Walcott over there.” I glance at him under my lashes. I see his jaw clench at the mention of Mr. Walcott’s name. I decide to give him relief.
“Yesterday when he walked me home, Mr. Walcott confined in me that he has a special lady back home. I’m smiling sadly because I know Charity will never have a chance with him.” I see him exhale. I hear the band starting to play Lorena.
“Miss Winthorpe will you grant me pleasure by dancing with me?” Will asks. I nod.
He leads me out and we start twirling on the dance floor. I feel safe and right in his arms. And the way he’s looking at me, nearly had me stumbling but fortunately he caught me before I did. The way his eyes bear into me, like he’s looking straight into my soul. I feel he pulls me closer, though just a little I felt it. I look into eyes, so much like mine, I see the emotion I’m sure is shining in mine.
I hear the music ending. I see Pa go up on stage. He whistles to get everyone’s attention. It must be time to start the fireworks.
“Could I get everyone to go towards the back pasture? We have a rope slung across the field telling you how close you can get. We’re about to shoot off the fireworks to end today’s festivities. I do hope everyone brought a blanket to sit on. I would not want the ladies’ dresses to soil. Now if y’all will follow me.” He leaves the stage and heads out. Everyone starts filing out. I feel Will grab hold of my elbow leading me out.
We are soon sitting on a blanket with Charity and Winnie. I sit next to Will and Winnie. Charity is sitting next to Winnie. I feel Will’s arm brush mine. I look at him and see he’s staring at me. I feel a flush creeping up my neck, glad it is dark so no one can see. I soon hear fireworks being shooting off, but cannot tear my gaze from Will’s eyes. He leans towards me. My breath catches. He leans in to where he can whisper in my ear.
“Lizzy, I know I shouldn’t but I love you.” I turn to look in his eyes. He smiles at me sheepishly. I feel the corners of my mouth turning up and with strain myself to throwing myself in his arms. “I’ve loved you since the first time I saw ya. With your little pigtails bouncing when you ran. I just never realized it till a couple of months ago. Lizzy you’re a beautiful woman inside and out. Even with your freckles ya hate so much.” He teaks my nose where I knew my freckles were. “I’ve waited for so long to say my feelings, and I can wait for you. You may not love me back, but I knew I needed to say them.” I couldn’t resist. I place my hand on his cheek. I feel my smile growing ever bigger, if that’s even possible. I lean towards him and kiss his cheek. I then lean to whisper.
“Oh, Will I love you too! I’ve loved you for a long time and did not determine my feelings till yesterday. I’ve been near to bursting waiting to hear you say those words.” I see him smile his amazing smile. I see the reflection of the fireworks in his green eyes. But his eyes are sparking with something different. Something much more precious. He leans in towards me again. I lean towards him not caring who saw us. He hesitates then slowly brushes his lips on mine. He places his hand on the back of my head and deepens the kiss. I wrap my arms around his neck. As soon as it started it ended. He pulls away.
“Elizabeth Louise Winthorpe, will you make me the happiest man and agree to be my wife?” Will asks. I place my hand on his cheek. I lean in and brush another kiss on his lips, then pull away.
“Does that answer your question?” Will nods and leans in to recapture my lips. I hear the boom of the fireworks exploding in the sky. I feel something similar in my heart. God truly answered my prayer, showing me the direction of my life. I don’t I could be any happier than in this moment in Will’s arms.
God bless!
Friday, April 8, 2011
Chapter Ten
Chapter 10
Two weeks later
I feel my eyelids drooping but refuse to indulge in a nap. I need to watch over Josephine. Her fever broke a couple of days ago, so she is on the mend. Anna sits next to me sleeping. Since Anna has already had the dreaded disease she can be in here. Since the day Anna got sick, Ma, Pa, Arthur, and Josephine have had it. Josephine has had longer. I have been in constant conversation with God to protect Josephine. Everyone else is better, weary but better. I have been the one to take care of everyone. Surprisingly I have yet to get it. I thank God for that everyday. I have been praising God that everyone is on the mend and did not die. I have not heard of any servants besides Lilly Anna’s ladies’ maid. I have not been out of the sick room since Anna came down with it.
I feel my eyelids droop again and I jolt awake. I need to be here for Josephine. I hear Anna’s even breathing next to me. I look at her. Her poor innocent face scarred from the pustules. They will fade but for now her face is scarred. I look at Josephine. Her face is ashen and her breathing is labored. I smell the smoke of the Jhau leaves. I wrinkle my nose. Definitely not the best smell but if it helps my family I’ll endure it.
I hear someone coming up the stairs. I look up to see Mr. John in the doorway. I smile at him. He smiles that easy smile that makes people want to forget their worries and smile with him. He’s like a second Pa to me. I stand up and walk to him. He reaches out his arms and envelops me in a warm fatherly hug. He smells of horse and outdoors. I sigh. I can forget my sorrows in his arms. He releases me and smiles at me. I return the smile. “Lizzy, how’s Jose?” I smile at his mention of our kid nicknames. I look to Josephine.
“Her fever broke a couple of days ago so she’s on the mend.” I look back at him. He nods.
“Lizzy, when was the last time you were out of the house?” It was a simple question but I feel he’ll be disappointed in my answer. I look down.
“I have not been out of the house since Anna came down sick.” I reply. I look up and see sympathy in his eyes.
“Lizzy, why don’t we get Mary-Lou to look over her and you go out and get some fresh air.”
“Oh! Mr. John I can’t leave her!” I look at Josephine and back at him. “Mr. John I appreciate the concern but I need to be here for Jose.”
“It’s okay to take a break for an hour or more.” I shake my head. “Lizzy, take a break, I ain’t gonna hear anymore or your arguin’. I’m a gettin’ Mary-Lou and she’ll sit with Jose.” He leaves the room without another word. I slump back to my chair. I sit down and humph out a groan. Leave it to Mr. John to do this. I lean my head back on the chair head rest. I feel drowsy. Maybe I should just rest my eyes till Mr. John gets back with Gamma….
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I wake from sunlight shining in the window. I open my eyes and see I’m in my room. I bolt up. How did I get my in my room? I look around. I swing my feet over the edge of the bed. I sit up and grab my dressing gown. When did I get in my nightgown? I feel my hair is in a braid down my back. What happened? I walk to the door and ring for Brigit. I hear foot steps coming up the servant staircase. I soon see Brigit entering. She curtsies. “Brigit, what happened?” I ask.
“Miss, I’m not sure I know what you mean.”
“How’d I get in my nightgown with my hair braided in my room?”
“Oh, Miss, Mr. Duncan found you sleeping in the chair in the sick room. He ordered George to carry to your room and ordered us to let you sleep.” Brigit explained.
“How long have I slept?” I inquire.
“For two days Miss.” Brigit answers.
“Two days!” I start to pace. Two days! I can’t believe I let Josephine down. I needed to stay by her side and I fell asleep. How’s Josephine? Is she worse? Better? I don’t know! I look to Brigit and she looks nervous. I stop pacing. “Brigit how’s Josephine? Is she worse? Better?”
“She’s right as rain now. She’s still weak Miss, but she’s much better.” I let out a breath I did not know I was holding. I walk to my bureau and pull out a simple gray skirt and a white blouse.
“Brigit help me dress.”
“Yes Miss.” She quickly ties my corset and helps me dress. She puts my hair into a chignon. I smile my thanks and walk out the door into the hall.
I walk to the sick room. I see Josephine sitting up in the bed laughing at something someone said. I smile. She looks much better. Her coloring is back to normal and the pustules scars are fading. I walk in further in the room and see Mr. John, Will, Arthur, Ma, Pa, and Anna. Anna is sitting on the bed with Josephine. Everyone looks up at me. I smile in greeting. I look to Will and feel his smile in the deepest part of me. I feel my knees buckle and hurry to look away. I walk to stand next to the bed. Josephine looks at me and smiles. She reaches to grab my hand. I place her hand in mine. I squeeze her hand. “How’re you feeling Jose?” I inquire.
“Feeling much better today Lizzy. Thank you so much Lizzy for all you did for me when I was sick. I can never thank you enough. It’s a wonder you never came down with it as well.” Josephine answers.
“All I can say is God blessed us with everyone better now.” I look to everyone in the room and thank God again for saving my dear family from small pox. Ma smiles at me. She nods like she knew what I was thinking. I look to Pa who winks at me. I love my family dearly and could never face it if anyone of them were taken away from me.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I sit under the Oak tree with the new book I picked up at mercantile. This is my favorite place to read. I’m surrounded by nature with the birds chirping above my head. It’s been a month since the smallpox epidemic came to Whispering Hills. It’s now early March and the birds are now coming back to Tennessee. Everyone who left Whispering Hills because of smallpox came back a week ago. Today I made it my mission to go over to the Cooks’ house to make amends with Charity. I may be laughed at but at least I will feel better knowing I tried.
I place my book down and stand up. I planned to walk over to the Cooks’. It was a good two miles not much of a walk. I pick up my book hike my skirts and run to the house. Ma would scold me if she knew I raised my skirts above my ankles.
But you can’t run in these blasted skirts. There’s also the corset jabbing into my sides. Oh how I wish I was younger so I did not have to wear the wretched thing. I can only wish the blasted thing is out of style soon. Why does it matter if I have a tiny waist or not? I’d rather have a plump waist then have to take shallow breaths.
I reach the door and halt to catch my breath. Stupid corset. I feel my hair falling out of its pins. I grab my hair and keep it up on my head. I drop my book to fix my hair. I shake the rest of the pins out of it and bend to pick them. My view is hidden from the curtain of my hair. I see a hand near my feet pick up some pins and I straighten up.
I look into the face of Will grinning. I feel a flutter in my stomach and silently scold it for acting like a ninny. He hands me the pins and reach toward my face. My breath catches. He stops at me hair and touches it. I feel a blush crawling from my neckline up to my hairline. He grabs some and pulls. He releases it and hands me a pin. “It was stuck in your hair.” He explains. My heart races. Why does he have this effect on me? His eyes are still hooked on my hair. I look away. I need to stop having this reaction every time I’m near him. He seems to come to his senses and smiles sheepishly. I see his cheeks have turned a shade redder. I inwardly smile. He’s blushing! I hear someone clear they’re throat. I look to the door and see Mr. John smiling quite proudly. I look away and quickly re-pin my hair. I smile to Will and run into the house, but not before I hear Mr. John chortle and say “Will my boy, blushing is not too handsome on ya.” I blush right along with him.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I walk to the front door of the Cooks’ house. I take a deep breath and knock. Their butler Samuel answers the door. He nods to me and opens the door wider to let me in. “I’ll announce you bein’ here Miss Winthorpe.” I thank him and watch him enter the parlor. A minute later he reappears and nods letting me know I can enter. I follow him in. I see Mrs. Cook and Charity needle pointing. I smile at each of them. I see Charity humph and continue to needle point. Mrs. Cook smiles warmly and pats the chair next to her. I oblige and sit down. “So Elizabeth Dear how did your family fair with the epidemic? I heard y’all stayed during it.” I nod to acknowledge her to be right.
“We faired good compared to other folks. Anna, Ma, Pa, Arthur, and Josephine came down with it along with one of the servants. Thank God no one was taken from us.” I smile warmly. I feel the tension with Charity in the room but choose to ignore it and continue to tete-tete with Mrs. Cook.
“My! What a tragedy for all of them to go through. If you don’t mind me asking why did y’all stay?”
“Well, Pa said we were under no threat of it. But he thought no one had gone to town while the germs were floating around. Unfortunately Lilly, Anna’s ladies’ maid, had gone to town a couple of days before. She must have carried the germs home.” Mrs. Cook nods. I see Charity look up. I take a deep breath and take the plunge. I look back at her with a smile. She does something like a sneer and looks down. I clear my throat and feel it tighten. Breathe, just breathe. I can do this. “Charity would you like to take a walk it’s such a beautiful day.” I let out the breath I was holding. I did it. She looks at me with astonishment. Her mouth hangs open as she gapes at me.
“Elizabeth Dear, that’s sounds lovely! Charity it’s such a glorious day go on.” Charity gapes at her mother. “Charity close your mouth.” She turns to me. “Elizabeth, Charity would love to.” She smiles and continues to needle point. I stand and look at Charity. She glares at her mother and stands and reluctantly follows me out. “Samuel Elizabeth and I are going for a walk. Don’t hold tea for us.”
She grabs her shawl and walks out. I follow suit. Silence so thick between us you could cut with an axe. Charity walks with a scowl that would make Howard the butcher, who never smiles ever, proud. I pray God gives me the right words to say to her. I look to her. “Charity, why do you dislike me?” I ask. She looks stunned at me. “Ever since we were kids, I have felt you had it out to get me. I just wanted to know why that is.” I see her struggle and almost thought she would not answer me. Then she slowly releases a breath and stops walking. She turns to me and smiles. The first that I know of that she has ever sent me.
“Remember when we met?” I nod. “Well Mama and Papa, came to your house to meet our neighbors. When I exited the carriage I saw Will and you running in the yard. It looked like y’all were playing some sort of tag. I wanted so badly to play with y’all. I knew Mama would never let me. You seemed so carefree. Like nothing would get in your way of playing with your friend.
“When we got older, I noticed how strapping Will had gotten. For you know the summer we turned four and ten my family left for our home in New York. Mama can never handle the heat here in Tennessee. I saw him after he turned five and ten. I started to think how lovely it would be if he would notice me. Unfortunately he only had eyes for you.
“Even when you left for finishing school he sulked around, waiting impatiently for your next letter to him. I knew then that I would never be in his mind. In summary, I’m jealous of you. I know. Me. Someone who can have anything she ever wanted was jealous of you. You were always carefree and always happy. Inside I was resenting you for seeming so happy. I wanted that for myself. Even when I insulted you, you never were too harsh on me. I saw you always happy and laughing. You’re gorgeous Elizabeth. Inside and out. I wish I can say the same thing for me.” She hung her head in shame. I placed my hand on her shoulder. She looks at me. I smile telling her I am not mad.
“Charity, all these years I never knew. You shouldn’t feel ashamed. Jealously is a very common emotion for us humans. That’s what makes us humans. God designed us to feel all sorts of emotions. In truth I’ve felt it constantly. With you. I was always jealous of you. You always have perfect hair, perfect complexion, and perfect dresses that always made you look marvelous. While me, I have this straight black hair. Tanned skin with these freckles all over. I can never find any dress that looks perfect on me.”
I suddenly laugh. This was all so funny. Charity looks at me like I’ve gone mad. I laugh all the harder. She suddenly joins in. Soon we are laughing so hard it’s hard to catch our breaths. I look at her and realize the tension I’ve felt with her all these years faded away. We reach for each other and embrace. I know I’ve found a friend in Charity after years of jealousy. It was not till we had gone back to the house and I made my way home when I realized had Charity said all these years Will only had eyes for me.
God bless!
Two weeks later
I feel my eyelids drooping but refuse to indulge in a nap. I need to watch over Josephine. Her fever broke a couple of days ago, so she is on the mend. Anna sits next to me sleeping. Since Anna has already had the dreaded disease she can be in here. Since the day Anna got sick, Ma, Pa, Arthur, and Josephine have had it. Josephine has had longer. I have been in constant conversation with God to protect Josephine. Everyone else is better, weary but better. I have been the one to take care of everyone. Surprisingly I have yet to get it. I thank God for that everyday. I have been praising God that everyone is on the mend and did not die. I have not heard of any servants besides Lilly Anna’s ladies’ maid. I have not been out of the sick room since Anna came down with it.
I feel my eyelids droop again and I jolt awake. I need to be here for Josephine. I hear Anna’s even breathing next to me. I look at her. Her poor innocent face scarred from the pustules. They will fade but for now her face is scarred. I look at Josephine. Her face is ashen and her breathing is labored. I smell the smoke of the Jhau leaves. I wrinkle my nose. Definitely not the best smell but if it helps my family I’ll endure it.
I hear someone coming up the stairs. I look up to see Mr. John in the doorway. I smile at him. He smiles that easy smile that makes people want to forget their worries and smile with him. He’s like a second Pa to me. I stand up and walk to him. He reaches out his arms and envelops me in a warm fatherly hug. He smells of horse and outdoors. I sigh. I can forget my sorrows in his arms. He releases me and smiles at me. I return the smile. “Lizzy, how’s Jose?” I smile at his mention of our kid nicknames. I look to Josephine.
“Her fever broke a couple of days ago so she’s on the mend.” I look back at him. He nods.
“Lizzy, when was the last time you were out of the house?” It was a simple question but I feel he’ll be disappointed in my answer. I look down.
“I have not been out of the house since Anna came down sick.” I reply. I look up and see sympathy in his eyes.
“Lizzy, why don’t we get Mary-Lou to look over her and you go out and get some fresh air.”
“Oh! Mr. John I can’t leave her!” I look at Josephine and back at him. “Mr. John I appreciate the concern but I need to be here for Jose.”
“It’s okay to take a break for an hour or more.” I shake my head. “Lizzy, take a break, I ain’t gonna hear anymore or your arguin’. I’m a gettin’ Mary-Lou and she’ll sit with Jose.” He leaves the room without another word. I slump back to my chair. I sit down and humph out a groan. Leave it to Mr. John to do this. I lean my head back on the chair head rest. I feel drowsy. Maybe I should just rest my eyes till Mr. John gets back with Gamma….
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I wake from sunlight shining in the window. I open my eyes and see I’m in my room. I bolt up. How did I get my in my room? I look around. I swing my feet over the edge of the bed. I sit up and grab my dressing gown. When did I get in my nightgown? I feel my hair is in a braid down my back. What happened? I walk to the door and ring for Brigit. I hear foot steps coming up the servant staircase. I soon see Brigit entering. She curtsies. “Brigit, what happened?” I ask.
“Miss, I’m not sure I know what you mean.”
“How’d I get in my nightgown with my hair braided in my room?”
“Oh, Miss, Mr. Duncan found you sleeping in the chair in the sick room. He ordered George to carry to your room and ordered us to let you sleep.” Brigit explained.
“How long have I slept?” I inquire.
“For two days Miss.” Brigit answers.
“Two days!” I start to pace. Two days! I can’t believe I let Josephine down. I needed to stay by her side and I fell asleep. How’s Josephine? Is she worse? Better? I don’t know! I look to Brigit and she looks nervous. I stop pacing. “Brigit how’s Josephine? Is she worse? Better?”
“She’s right as rain now. She’s still weak Miss, but she’s much better.” I let out a breath I did not know I was holding. I walk to my bureau and pull out a simple gray skirt and a white blouse.
“Brigit help me dress.”
“Yes Miss.” She quickly ties my corset and helps me dress. She puts my hair into a chignon. I smile my thanks and walk out the door into the hall.
I walk to the sick room. I see Josephine sitting up in the bed laughing at something someone said. I smile. She looks much better. Her coloring is back to normal and the pustules scars are fading. I walk in further in the room and see Mr. John, Will, Arthur, Ma, Pa, and Anna. Anna is sitting on the bed with Josephine. Everyone looks up at me. I smile in greeting. I look to Will and feel his smile in the deepest part of me. I feel my knees buckle and hurry to look away. I walk to stand next to the bed. Josephine looks at me and smiles. She reaches to grab my hand. I place her hand in mine. I squeeze her hand. “How’re you feeling Jose?” I inquire.
“Feeling much better today Lizzy. Thank you so much Lizzy for all you did for me when I was sick. I can never thank you enough. It’s a wonder you never came down with it as well.” Josephine answers.
“All I can say is God blessed us with everyone better now.” I look to everyone in the room and thank God again for saving my dear family from small pox. Ma smiles at me. She nods like she knew what I was thinking. I look to Pa who winks at me. I love my family dearly and could never face it if anyone of them were taken away from me.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I sit under the Oak tree with the new book I picked up at mercantile. This is my favorite place to read. I’m surrounded by nature with the birds chirping above my head. It’s been a month since the smallpox epidemic came to Whispering Hills. It’s now early March and the birds are now coming back to Tennessee. Everyone who left Whispering Hills because of smallpox came back a week ago. Today I made it my mission to go over to the Cooks’ house to make amends with Charity. I may be laughed at but at least I will feel better knowing I tried.
I place my book down and stand up. I planned to walk over to the Cooks’. It was a good two miles not much of a walk. I pick up my book hike my skirts and run to the house. Ma would scold me if she knew I raised my skirts above my ankles.
But you can’t run in these blasted skirts. There’s also the corset jabbing into my sides. Oh how I wish I was younger so I did not have to wear the wretched thing. I can only wish the blasted thing is out of style soon. Why does it matter if I have a tiny waist or not? I’d rather have a plump waist then have to take shallow breaths.
I reach the door and halt to catch my breath. Stupid corset. I feel my hair falling out of its pins. I grab my hair and keep it up on my head. I drop my book to fix my hair. I shake the rest of the pins out of it and bend to pick them. My view is hidden from the curtain of my hair. I see a hand near my feet pick up some pins and I straighten up.
I look into the face of Will grinning. I feel a flutter in my stomach and silently scold it for acting like a ninny. He hands me the pins and reach toward my face. My breath catches. He stops at me hair and touches it. I feel a blush crawling from my neckline up to my hairline. He grabs some and pulls. He releases it and hands me a pin. “It was stuck in your hair.” He explains. My heart races. Why does he have this effect on me? His eyes are still hooked on my hair. I look away. I need to stop having this reaction every time I’m near him. He seems to come to his senses and smiles sheepishly. I see his cheeks have turned a shade redder. I inwardly smile. He’s blushing! I hear someone clear they’re throat. I look to the door and see Mr. John smiling quite proudly. I look away and quickly re-pin my hair. I smile to Will and run into the house, but not before I hear Mr. John chortle and say “Will my boy, blushing is not too handsome on ya.” I blush right along with him.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I walk to the front door of the Cooks’ house. I take a deep breath and knock. Their butler Samuel answers the door. He nods to me and opens the door wider to let me in. “I’ll announce you bein’ here Miss Winthorpe.” I thank him and watch him enter the parlor. A minute later he reappears and nods letting me know I can enter. I follow him in. I see Mrs. Cook and Charity needle pointing. I smile at each of them. I see Charity humph and continue to needle point. Mrs. Cook smiles warmly and pats the chair next to her. I oblige and sit down. “So Elizabeth Dear how did your family fair with the epidemic? I heard y’all stayed during it.” I nod to acknowledge her to be right.
“We faired good compared to other folks. Anna, Ma, Pa, Arthur, and Josephine came down with it along with one of the servants. Thank God no one was taken from us.” I smile warmly. I feel the tension with Charity in the room but choose to ignore it and continue to tete-tete with Mrs. Cook.
“My! What a tragedy for all of them to go through. If you don’t mind me asking why did y’all stay?”
“Well, Pa said we were under no threat of it. But he thought no one had gone to town while the germs were floating around. Unfortunately Lilly, Anna’s ladies’ maid, had gone to town a couple of days before. She must have carried the germs home.” Mrs. Cook nods. I see Charity look up. I take a deep breath and take the plunge. I look back at her with a smile. She does something like a sneer and looks down. I clear my throat and feel it tighten. Breathe, just breathe. I can do this. “Charity would you like to take a walk it’s such a beautiful day.” I let out the breath I was holding. I did it. She looks at me with astonishment. Her mouth hangs open as she gapes at me.
“Elizabeth Dear, that’s sounds lovely! Charity it’s such a glorious day go on.” Charity gapes at her mother. “Charity close your mouth.” She turns to me. “Elizabeth, Charity would love to.” She smiles and continues to needle point. I stand and look at Charity. She glares at her mother and stands and reluctantly follows me out. “Samuel Elizabeth and I are going for a walk. Don’t hold tea for us.”
She grabs her shawl and walks out. I follow suit. Silence so thick between us you could cut with an axe. Charity walks with a scowl that would make Howard the butcher, who never smiles ever, proud. I pray God gives me the right words to say to her. I look to her. “Charity, why do you dislike me?” I ask. She looks stunned at me. “Ever since we were kids, I have felt you had it out to get me. I just wanted to know why that is.” I see her struggle and almost thought she would not answer me. Then she slowly releases a breath and stops walking. She turns to me and smiles. The first that I know of that she has ever sent me.
“Remember when we met?” I nod. “Well Mama and Papa, came to your house to meet our neighbors. When I exited the carriage I saw Will and you running in the yard. It looked like y’all were playing some sort of tag. I wanted so badly to play with y’all. I knew Mama would never let me. You seemed so carefree. Like nothing would get in your way of playing with your friend.
“When we got older, I noticed how strapping Will had gotten. For you know the summer we turned four and ten my family left for our home in New York. Mama can never handle the heat here in Tennessee. I saw him after he turned five and ten. I started to think how lovely it would be if he would notice me. Unfortunately he only had eyes for you.
“Even when you left for finishing school he sulked around, waiting impatiently for your next letter to him. I knew then that I would never be in his mind. In summary, I’m jealous of you. I know. Me. Someone who can have anything she ever wanted was jealous of you. You were always carefree and always happy. Inside I was resenting you for seeming so happy. I wanted that for myself. Even when I insulted you, you never were too harsh on me. I saw you always happy and laughing. You’re gorgeous Elizabeth. Inside and out. I wish I can say the same thing for me.” She hung her head in shame. I placed my hand on her shoulder. She looks at me. I smile telling her I am not mad.
“Charity, all these years I never knew. You shouldn’t feel ashamed. Jealously is a very common emotion for us humans. That’s what makes us humans. God designed us to feel all sorts of emotions. In truth I’ve felt it constantly. With you. I was always jealous of you. You always have perfect hair, perfect complexion, and perfect dresses that always made you look marvelous. While me, I have this straight black hair. Tanned skin with these freckles all over. I can never find any dress that looks perfect on me.”
I suddenly laugh. This was all so funny. Charity looks at me like I’ve gone mad. I laugh all the harder. She suddenly joins in. Soon we are laughing so hard it’s hard to catch our breaths. I look at her and realize the tension I’ve felt with her all these years faded away. We reach for each other and embrace. I know I’ve found a friend in Charity after years of jealousy. It was not till we had gone back to the house and I made my way home when I realized had Charity said all these years Will only had eyes for me.
God bless!
Friday, April 1, 2011
Chapter Nine
Chapter 9
“Thomas we need to go to our home in Boston, smallpox has broken out in Whispering Hills. I want to feel safe.” Ma says to Pa at the supper table. I watch Anna pick at her food. Anna’s complexion is all wrong. She has a peaches and cream complexion, and her cheeks now are more like tomatoes.
“Dear, we’re fine, as long as no one leaves this house unless they absolutely need to, we’ll be fine.” Pa gives Ma’s hand a squeeze and smiles at her. Ma smiles back then goes back to her food. Gamma rolls her eyes, and Grandpa looks sternly at her.
“Thomas you need to protect your family. If Catherine wants to go to the house in Boston you should listen. Even the Cooks’ went to their other home somewhere in New York.” Gamma argued.
“Mary-Lou, you needn’t express your feelings. If Thomas feels it’s time to go to their home in Boston he will pack up.” Grandpa smiles at Gamma. I continue to watch Anna, she does not look right. I hear commotion in the kitchen then see Hannah, Ma’s ladies’ maid come running in. She wore a panicked expression on her lovely face.
“Hannah Dear, what is wrong?” Ma asks.
“Mrs. Winthorpe, Lilly is sick Ma’am.” Hannah replies. I jerk my head up. Lilly is Anna’s ladies’ maid. Could Anna be sick? I look again to Anna; her eyes don’t hold her sparkle they usually have.
“Oh, dear, Thomas one of our servants our sick, still want to say we will not get the epidemic in our house. I told you weeks ago that people were coming down sick and we needed to move to Boston for a couple of weeks. Now we could get sick!” Ma shrieks.
“Hannah, go tell George to go get the Doctor Morgan for Lilly, and I think supper is done for tonight.” Pa gets up and heads out of the dining room. Ma pulls out her fan and fans herself. Anna gets up and slowly slumps to her room. Josephine and Arthur get up and walk to their room. Gamma looks at Grandpa then Grandpa gets up and helps Gamma up. Ma still sits and fans herself. I slowly get up. I look at the direction of the kitchen. I say a silent prayer for Lilly, praying God protects her when she’s sick. I add that God keeps us safe from whatever Lilly has.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I wake from noise and footsteps outside my bedroom door. I swing my legs over the edge and get up. I run to get my dressing gown and slip it on. I walk to the door and peek out. I see servants running wildly with panic on their faces. I grab Brigit my ladies’ maid. She looks at me with terror in her eyes. “Hannah what’s going on?” I ask.
“Miss Anna she sick ma’am, she sick from Lilly Miss Elizabeth.” Hannah replies. I feel the color drain from my face. I release her arm and come fully out.
I run to Anna’s room down the hallway. I see Dr. Morgan leaning over Anna. Ma is in the corner with Pa crying silently in her handkerchief. Pa’s trying to comfort her. Gamma and Grandpa are next to them. I do not see Josephine or Arthur so they must have not woken up. I walk towards Dr. Morgan and stand next to him. I look at Anna. Her face is ashen. Dr. Morgan is checking Anna’s throat. Why would he do that? Unless… Dr. Morgan finishes and closes his black leather bag. He looks at me then at Ma and Pa. His face tells me everything.
“Its smallpox isn’t it? Oh, Dear Anna!” I look at Anna again.
“I’m afraid so Elizabeth. I have to put ya’ll in quarantine for a couple weeks. Ya’ll have been around her and have been exposed to her. The best thing for her is if you can get someone to go to Dots and ask for something. Dot has been busier than a bee in spring, since smallpox has come to Whispering Hills.” I take a deep breath and step up to Dr. Morgan.
“I’ll go to Dots and get something. I have barely been around her.” I look to Pa and Ma. Ma is still crying into her handkerchief. Pa looks at me then slowly nods. “I’ll go. I feel I have to do something for Anna.” Dr. Morgan nods then reaches in his black leather bag. He grabbed out a mask.
“I’d advise you wear this when you go out. Even though you’re in the same house you might not get it from her, but there’s a possibility you’ll get it from someone else in town.” He hands me the mask and then nods to Ma and Pa. “I’ll be praying for Anna Thomas. I hate to see kids sick.” He leaves the room and Trenton the butler leaves to show him out.
The house is in disarray. The servants are running from the servant corridors to Anna’s room. I hurry to my room to dress for my trip to town. I hurry to put on a working dress. I had asked Ma if I could put in an herb garden this spring. Then I asked if I could have a working dress. I feel it appropriate to wear the working dress to town. I do not bother with my hair. I do not think it will matter. I grab my shawl then run down the stairs. George meets me at the door. He nods to me.
“Miss Elizabeth, I have Will drivin’ you to town. I wish to stay to see what I can do for Miss Anna.” I smile at George. He’s been with our family ever since I can remember. He’s such a loyal servant.
“Thank you George. Right now all we can do is pray. But that is the best thing we can do.” I wave to him then run to the barn.
I see the buggy is already hitched up and waiting. Will is standing near it waiting. He looks tired. My heart does an unexpected flip and I frown. Why does my heart decide to do that now? I square my shoulders and try to hide the fact I had such a reaction to seeing him. I walk toward him. He notices me and his eyes widen. I halt and think. Why would he react like that? I realize I left my hair flowing down my back. My face reddens and I avert my eyes from his gaze. I hurry to try to grab my hair and put it up. But I realize I have nothing to put it up. He walks my way and I dare a glance at him. I see compassion and sincerity in his eyes. He stops within inches of me. I look up at him. He places his hands on my shoulders. I feel something like a bolt of lightening in me all the way to my toes. He puts his finger under my chin and raises my face so I’m looking right at his emerald eyes.
“Lizzy, George told about Anna how is she?” His eyes show so much compassion it is almost my undoing. I take a deep breath and step back from his hands. I close my eyes to compose myself. I open them to see him still looking at me with some emotion I can not describe.
“She’ll be okay once I go to Dots and get something to help. In the meantime pray for her Will.” My heart is hammering in my chest from his touch and nearness. He nods and heads to the buggy. Breathe, just breathe Elizabeth. Just remember to breathe. I follow him to the buggy. He waits for me to help me up. I hurry and scramble up before he has time to help me. He shakes his head and smiles. He grabs the reins and hands them to me. He jumps up on the seat next to me. He retakes the reins and yells to the horses to go. The buggy sways and jumps on the path. I can only think of poor little Anna in the bed her face ashen. I vow to do everything I can to see her better.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Lizzy Dear! What in the blazes are you doing here at this hour come in, come in. It’s colder than my ice box out there. Now come here and stand next to the fire. Will darlin’ come here too! You two stand in front of the fire there and warm up. I’ll go put on some coffee. Now Dear tell me how’s your family?” Dot bustles back in and sets a kettle with coffee to warm up. She looks at me and her expression changes. Her bubbly smile is gone replaced with a sober frown. “Dear? Why are you here?” I look at her and try to smile. Obviously did not do too well. “Elizabeth is it your family?” I do not trust my voice so I slowly nod. I feel tears welling in my eyes. I blink rapidly trying to stop them. Will, who is sitting next to me, places his arm around my shoulders for comfort. He clears his throat.
“Dot, Anna is sick.” He clears it again. “It’s smallpox.” I hear Dot exhale and gasp. I look up and see tears swimming in her kind blue eyes. She leans over and pats my hand in my lap.
She stands up and walks over to a shelf filled with herbs. She grabs a jar than another. Soon she has at least nine jars on the counter. She starts doing her thing with herbs and mixes, shakes and grinds them. I watch in amazement as she does what I know is her favorite thing to do. She soon has six jars of mixed and shaken herbs. She walks back to me and Will.
“Dear, I have six jars for you to take home. The first one is a combination is Jujube fruits, Khaski and sugar. These should be boiled together and strained. The decoction should be given with three raisins if Anna is constipated. That will make a tea for her to drink. Alternatively, the other jar is figs. They should be cut into three pieces and cooked in a little water. That one there is Saffron. It should be mixed with it after straining it. The decoction helps shorten the course of the disease.
“If the pustules itch during drying up, a salt free diet should be given to Anna. Anna should be exposed to the smoke of Jhau or Bhojpatra leaves. Those are the jars there. When the scabs start falling off, cow's ghee or sesame oil, slightly warmed should be applied to the scars. The last jar is the sesame oil.
“I am giving these to you. I trust you to do exactly what I have told you. I will be praying for Anna and your family. Come see me when this epidemic is over.” She smile and gets up again. She grabs a basket and fills it with the jars. She brings the basket to me and hands it to Will who holds it in one hand and keeps his other arm around my shoulders. Just having his arm around me gives me strength that Anna will be fine. I look up at him and he smiles at me. When this is all over I shall contemplate what this emotion is in his eyes as he looks at me.
God bless!
“Thomas we need to go to our home in Boston, smallpox has broken out in Whispering Hills. I want to feel safe.” Ma says to Pa at the supper table. I watch Anna pick at her food. Anna’s complexion is all wrong. She has a peaches and cream complexion, and her cheeks now are more like tomatoes.
“Dear, we’re fine, as long as no one leaves this house unless they absolutely need to, we’ll be fine.” Pa gives Ma’s hand a squeeze and smiles at her. Ma smiles back then goes back to her food. Gamma rolls her eyes, and Grandpa looks sternly at her.
“Thomas you need to protect your family. If Catherine wants to go to the house in Boston you should listen. Even the Cooks’ went to their other home somewhere in New York.” Gamma argued.
“Mary-Lou, you needn’t express your feelings. If Thomas feels it’s time to go to their home in Boston he will pack up.” Grandpa smiles at Gamma. I continue to watch Anna, she does not look right. I hear commotion in the kitchen then see Hannah, Ma’s ladies’ maid come running in. She wore a panicked expression on her lovely face.
“Hannah Dear, what is wrong?” Ma asks.
“Mrs. Winthorpe, Lilly is sick Ma’am.” Hannah replies. I jerk my head up. Lilly is Anna’s ladies’ maid. Could Anna be sick? I look again to Anna; her eyes don’t hold her sparkle they usually have.
“Oh, dear, Thomas one of our servants our sick, still want to say we will not get the epidemic in our house. I told you weeks ago that people were coming down sick and we needed to move to Boston for a couple of weeks. Now we could get sick!” Ma shrieks.
“Hannah, go tell George to go get the Doctor Morgan for Lilly, and I think supper is done for tonight.” Pa gets up and heads out of the dining room. Ma pulls out her fan and fans herself. Anna gets up and slowly slumps to her room. Josephine and Arthur get up and walk to their room. Gamma looks at Grandpa then Grandpa gets up and helps Gamma up. Ma still sits and fans herself. I slowly get up. I look at the direction of the kitchen. I say a silent prayer for Lilly, praying God protects her when she’s sick. I add that God keeps us safe from whatever Lilly has.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I wake from noise and footsteps outside my bedroom door. I swing my legs over the edge and get up. I run to get my dressing gown and slip it on. I walk to the door and peek out. I see servants running wildly with panic on their faces. I grab Brigit my ladies’ maid. She looks at me with terror in her eyes. “Hannah what’s going on?” I ask.
“Miss Anna she sick ma’am, she sick from Lilly Miss Elizabeth.” Hannah replies. I feel the color drain from my face. I release her arm and come fully out.
I run to Anna’s room down the hallway. I see Dr. Morgan leaning over Anna. Ma is in the corner with Pa crying silently in her handkerchief. Pa’s trying to comfort her. Gamma and Grandpa are next to them. I do not see Josephine or Arthur so they must have not woken up. I walk towards Dr. Morgan and stand next to him. I look at Anna. Her face is ashen. Dr. Morgan is checking Anna’s throat. Why would he do that? Unless… Dr. Morgan finishes and closes his black leather bag. He looks at me then at Ma and Pa. His face tells me everything.
“Its smallpox isn’t it? Oh, Dear Anna!” I look at Anna again.
“I’m afraid so Elizabeth. I have to put ya’ll in quarantine for a couple weeks. Ya’ll have been around her and have been exposed to her. The best thing for her is if you can get someone to go to Dots and ask for something. Dot has been busier than a bee in spring, since smallpox has come to Whispering Hills.” I take a deep breath and step up to Dr. Morgan.
“I’ll go to Dots and get something. I have barely been around her.” I look to Pa and Ma. Ma is still crying into her handkerchief. Pa looks at me then slowly nods. “I’ll go. I feel I have to do something for Anna.” Dr. Morgan nods then reaches in his black leather bag. He grabbed out a mask.
“I’d advise you wear this when you go out. Even though you’re in the same house you might not get it from her, but there’s a possibility you’ll get it from someone else in town.” He hands me the mask and then nods to Ma and Pa. “I’ll be praying for Anna Thomas. I hate to see kids sick.” He leaves the room and Trenton the butler leaves to show him out.
The house is in disarray. The servants are running from the servant corridors to Anna’s room. I hurry to my room to dress for my trip to town. I hurry to put on a working dress. I had asked Ma if I could put in an herb garden this spring. Then I asked if I could have a working dress. I feel it appropriate to wear the working dress to town. I do not bother with my hair. I do not think it will matter. I grab my shawl then run down the stairs. George meets me at the door. He nods to me.
“Miss Elizabeth, I have Will drivin’ you to town. I wish to stay to see what I can do for Miss Anna.” I smile at George. He’s been with our family ever since I can remember. He’s such a loyal servant.
“Thank you George. Right now all we can do is pray. But that is the best thing we can do.” I wave to him then run to the barn.
I see the buggy is already hitched up and waiting. Will is standing near it waiting. He looks tired. My heart does an unexpected flip and I frown. Why does my heart decide to do that now? I square my shoulders and try to hide the fact I had such a reaction to seeing him. I walk toward him. He notices me and his eyes widen. I halt and think. Why would he react like that? I realize I left my hair flowing down my back. My face reddens and I avert my eyes from his gaze. I hurry to try to grab my hair and put it up. But I realize I have nothing to put it up. He walks my way and I dare a glance at him. I see compassion and sincerity in his eyes. He stops within inches of me. I look up at him. He places his hands on my shoulders. I feel something like a bolt of lightening in me all the way to my toes. He puts his finger under my chin and raises my face so I’m looking right at his emerald eyes.
“Lizzy, George told about Anna how is she?” His eyes show so much compassion it is almost my undoing. I take a deep breath and step back from his hands. I close my eyes to compose myself. I open them to see him still looking at me with some emotion I can not describe.
“She’ll be okay once I go to Dots and get something to help. In the meantime pray for her Will.” My heart is hammering in my chest from his touch and nearness. He nods and heads to the buggy. Breathe, just breathe Elizabeth. Just remember to breathe. I follow him to the buggy. He waits for me to help me up. I hurry and scramble up before he has time to help me. He shakes his head and smiles. He grabs the reins and hands them to me. He jumps up on the seat next to me. He retakes the reins and yells to the horses to go. The buggy sways and jumps on the path. I can only think of poor little Anna in the bed her face ashen. I vow to do everything I can to see her better.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Lizzy Dear! What in the blazes are you doing here at this hour come in, come in. It’s colder than my ice box out there. Now come here and stand next to the fire. Will darlin’ come here too! You two stand in front of the fire there and warm up. I’ll go put on some coffee. Now Dear tell me how’s your family?” Dot bustles back in and sets a kettle with coffee to warm up. She looks at me and her expression changes. Her bubbly smile is gone replaced with a sober frown. “Dear? Why are you here?” I look at her and try to smile. Obviously did not do too well. “Elizabeth is it your family?” I do not trust my voice so I slowly nod. I feel tears welling in my eyes. I blink rapidly trying to stop them. Will, who is sitting next to me, places his arm around my shoulders for comfort. He clears his throat.
“Dot, Anna is sick.” He clears it again. “It’s smallpox.” I hear Dot exhale and gasp. I look up and see tears swimming in her kind blue eyes. She leans over and pats my hand in my lap.
She stands up and walks over to a shelf filled with herbs. She grabs a jar than another. Soon she has at least nine jars on the counter. She starts doing her thing with herbs and mixes, shakes and grinds them. I watch in amazement as she does what I know is her favorite thing to do. She soon has six jars of mixed and shaken herbs. She walks back to me and Will.
“Dear, I have six jars for you to take home. The first one is a combination is Jujube fruits, Khaski and sugar. These should be boiled together and strained. The decoction should be given with three raisins if Anna is constipated. That will make a tea for her to drink. Alternatively, the other jar is figs. They should be cut into three pieces and cooked in a little water. That one there is Saffron. It should be mixed with it after straining it. The decoction helps shorten the course of the disease.
“If the pustules itch during drying up, a salt free diet should be given to Anna. Anna should be exposed to the smoke of Jhau or Bhojpatra leaves. Those are the jars there. When the scabs start falling off, cow's ghee or sesame oil, slightly warmed should be applied to the scars. The last jar is the sesame oil.
“I am giving these to you. I trust you to do exactly what I have told you. I will be praying for Anna and your family. Come see me when this epidemic is over.” She smile and gets up again. She grabs a basket and fills it with the jars. She brings the basket to me and hands it to Will who holds it in one hand and keeps his other arm around my shoulders. Just having his arm around me gives me strength that Anna will be fine. I look up at him and he smiles at me. When this is all over I shall contemplate what this emotion is in his eyes as he looks at me.
God bless!
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Chapter Eight
Chapter 8
Have you ever had the sensation that you would love if the floor swallowed you up right then? Well, I’m there. Seeing Pa’s face I knew I was in for it. I release Will’s hand and start to walk towards Pa.
“Stay right there Elizabeth Marie.” Pa ground out through gritted teeth. I see Pa’s jaw clench and his hands clench and unclench. I knew I was in trouble; he used my full name and middle name. I stop walking and hang my head. “William Duncan what on earth is going on?” Will looks at me and then stares at Pa.
“N-Nothing Sir.”
“Then why do I find you holding my daughters hand, leaning towards her, alone in the barn?” I look at Pa again and feel like I need to do something. I slowly walk towards Pa.
“Pa, nothing was going on. He was just coming to get me. He knew the service started soon, and he knew I was in here.” I smile hoping to get Pa to forget it and smile as well. Pa glares at me and looks again to Will. I see Will hang his head in shame. He should not need to hang his head in shame. We did nothing. I summon up enough edge and courage to face Pa. “Pa, stop looking at Will like he’s, like he’s scum. Pa Will is one of the most respectable men I know. Nothing was going on, I promise Pa.” I grab Pa’s arm. Pa glares at me again.
“No more of this Elizabeth. We’ll talk later.” He glares at Will again then stomps out of the barn. I feel tears behind my eyes and blink rapidly to avoid crying. I look to Will. His Adam’s apple bobbed and he clenches and unclenches his hands. I hate that this is upon him. I walk towards him and he backs away. He slowly shakes his head and stalks out of the barn. I collapse on the barn floor. How could Pa do that? We did nothing and nothing was going to happen. I was going to make sure. Shudders rack my body. I realize I left my shawl on the porch swing. I stand up and run to the porch. Might as well put on a happy face and get through the night.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Here are some key scriptures on loving your enemies….” I jerk, trying to listen to Pastor Franklin’s sermon. I sit next to Anna and Ma. Anna is fidgeting in the pew. Ma is sitting straight and erect.
“’A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.’ That’s John 13:34. What does that tell us? Well Jesus says to love everyone as He has loved us. Because what did He do that was the ultimate sacrifice to show us His love? He died for us to forgive our sins. That’s pretty big. Now I’m not saying you die for your enemies, but just show them love like Jesus does.” He walks to the podium and sifts through the Bible and looks up.
“Now this verse I hold close to my heart. ‘This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.’ That’s John 15:12-13. It’s about saying the same thing the other did, but now He’s saying to lay down your life for your friends.
“Our highest calling is to spread the Word of the Gospel and help others grow in Christ. We should be passionately concerned about introducing people to Jesus. Along the same lines, we should be passionately concerned about other believers' spiritual welfare. Jesus loved His enemies. Make Him your example on how to live. I know none of us are perfect, there was and only is one perfect person. Jesus.
“Realize that your enemies may just be acting like that to you out of something within. They do not necessarily hate you. They might just be going through something and are lashing out on you. However, if someone insults you or dislikes you, respond in a Christ-like manner. Don't take things personally or give in to hurt feelings and let your emotions control you. Instead, see the other person as someone with a problem who needs God's help and your prayers. Forgive even if your enemy does not apologize. Follow Jesus' example: ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’ Follow Stephen's example: ‘Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep.’
“Pray for your enemies. When you feel irritated about someone: Pray for the other person's needs. Pray that God will help you forgive. Pray that God will help you love him or her. Remember Paul’s words about love. ‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.’”
Pastor Franklin ended with a prayer then I hear a round of amen’s. I raise my head and see Charity Cook. I vow to use this sermon in practice with Charity. I realize I have not been really nice to Charity over the years and I need to change that. I think back to all those years and see when I had a chance to be nice I retorted back at her. I stand up with everyone else. I look and see Charity talking with a guy. I did not recognize him, but he’s probably new to the town. I decide I’ll reconcile with her later. I follow my family out to shake hands with Pastor Franklin. When I reach him I shake his hand. “Pastor it was an amazing sermon. I realized I need to be more like Jesus in this area. Thank you.” He smiles.
“You’re welcome Elizabeth. I hoped to reach people. I’m glad I did.” He squeezes my hand and releases my hand then reaches to shakes hands with Arthur. I walk out and feel the cold mountain air on my face. Looking up to the mountains I always feel God with me. Looking at the mountains I feel like I can do anything. I breathe a prayer of thanks to God for everything in my life.
God bless!
Have you ever had the sensation that you would love if the floor swallowed you up right then? Well, I’m there. Seeing Pa’s face I knew I was in for it. I release Will’s hand and start to walk towards Pa.
“Stay right there Elizabeth Marie.” Pa ground out through gritted teeth. I see Pa’s jaw clench and his hands clench and unclench. I knew I was in trouble; he used my full name and middle name. I stop walking and hang my head. “William Duncan what on earth is going on?” Will looks at me and then stares at Pa.
“N-Nothing Sir.”
“Then why do I find you holding my daughters hand, leaning towards her, alone in the barn?” I look at Pa again and feel like I need to do something. I slowly walk towards Pa.
“Pa, nothing was going on. He was just coming to get me. He knew the service started soon, and he knew I was in here.” I smile hoping to get Pa to forget it and smile as well. Pa glares at me and looks again to Will. I see Will hang his head in shame. He should not need to hang his head in shame. We did nothing. I summon up enough edge and courage to face Pa. “Pa, stop looking at Will like he’s, like he’s scum. Pa Will is one of the most respectable men I know. Nothing was going on, I promise Pa.” I grab Pa’s arm. Pa glares at me again.
“No more of this Elizabeth. We’ll talk later.” He glares at Will again then stomps out of the barn. I feel tears behind my eyes and blink rapidly to avoid crying. I look to Will. His Adam’s apple bobbed and he clenches and unclenches his hands. I hate that this is upon him. I walk towards him and he backs away. He slowly shakes his head and stalks out of the barn. I collapse on the barn floor. How could Pa do that? We did nothing and nothing was going to happen. I was going to make sure. Shudders rack my body. I realize I left my shawl on the porch swing. I stand up and run to the porch. Might as well put on a happy face and get through the night.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Here are some key scriptures on loving your enemies….” I jerk, trying to listen to Pastor Franklin’s sermon. I sit next to Anna and Ma. Anna is fidgeting in the pew. Ma is sitting straight and erect.
“’A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.’ That’s John 13:34. What does that tell us? Well Jesus says to love everyone as He has loved us. Because what did He do that was the ultimate sacrifice to show us His love? He died for us to forgive our sins. That’s pretty big. Now I’m not saying you die for your enemies, but just show them love like Jesus does.” He walks to the podium and sifts through the Bible and looks up.
“Now this verse I hold close to my heart. ‘This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.’ That’s John 15:12-13. It’s about saying the same thing the other did, but now He’s saying to lay down your life for your friends.
“Our highest calling is to spread the Word of the Gospel and help others grow in Christ. We should be passionately concerned about introducing people to Jesus. Along the same lines, we should be passionately concerned about other believers' spiritual welfare. Jesus loved His enemies. Make Him your example on how to live. I know none of us are perfect, there was and only is one perfect person. Jesus.
“Realize that your enemies may just be acting like that to you out of something within. They do not necessarily hate you. They might just be going through something and are lashing out on you. However, if someone insults you or dislikes you, respond in a Christ-like manner. Don't take things personally or give in to hurt feelings and let your emotions control you. Instead, see the other person as someone with a problem who needs God's help and your prayers. Forgive even if your enemy does not apologize. Follow Jesus' example: ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’ Follow Stephen's example: ‘Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep.’
“Pray for your enemies. When you feel irritated about someone: Pray for the other person's needs. Pray that God will help you forgive. Pray that God will help you love him or her. Remember Paul’s words about love. ‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.’”
Pastor Franklin ended with a prayer then I hear a round of amen’s. I raise my head and see Charity Cook. I vow to use this sermon in practice with Charity. I realize I have not been really nice to Charity over the years and I need to change that. I think back to all those years and see when I had a chance to be nice I retorted back at her. I stand up with everyone else. I look and see Charity talking with a guy. I did not recognize him, but he’s probably new to the town. I decide I’ll reconcile with her later. I follow my family out to shake hands with Pastor Franklin. When I reach him I shake his hand. “Pastor it was an amazing sermon. I realized I need to be more like Jesus in this area. Thank you.” He smiles.
“You’re welcome Elizabeth. I hoped to reach people. I’m glad I did.” He squeezes my hand and releases my hand then reaches to shakes hands with Arthur. I walk out and feel the cold mountain air on my face. Looking up to the mountains I always feel God with me. Looking at the mountains I feel like I can do anything. I breathe a prayer of thanks to God for everything in my life.
God bless!
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Chapter Seven
Chapter 7
New Years Eve 1890
“Dear, why don’t you wear that brown dress that Charity gave you for your birthday for tonight’s service?” Ma asked me while she was working on her needlepoint in the parlor. I have yet to wear that dress for it makes me look like a frumpy horse.
“Ma, I was planning on wearing my green silk dress. I think it looks great with my eyes.”
I just hoped Ma agreed and says yes. I stopped my knitting. I looked into the eyes of the one woman that could make me feel safe or make me want to hide under the covers. Ma smiled, though small it was a smile. Ma rarely smiled. She felt adults should not show emotion it was a weakness. I on the other hand felt it was a strength. Showing your emotions to me help me cope with the world. She put down her needlepoint and took my hand.
“Dear, you may wear your green dress. Just promise me you’ll wear the brown dress to next Sunday’s service.” Might as well agree to it.
“I promise.” She released my hand and continued her needlepoint. I pick up my knitting and resumed knitting a scarf for Gamma.
I cannot say why I want to wear the green dress. It was my best dress, and it really brought out my eyes. I refuse to admit I want to wear it for Will. It’s simply just a coincidence that it’s Will’s favorite color. I wonder what would be Will’s reaction when he saw me in the dress. Would he like it or completely ignore it? Would I see the sparkle in his eyes I love oh so much?
Whoa, where did that come from? I felt the red creeping up my neck all the way up to my hairline. I so hope Ma do not notice the sudden color in my complexion. I ducked my head trying to hide it. I peek a look a Ma under my lashes. She’s still engrossed in her needlepoint. I inwardly exhale. She did not notice. I would get an onslaught of questions if she saw. I pick up my knitting and pack it up in the basket. I need fresh air. I stand up and head towards the door, hoping Ma does not question me. Ma looks up at me with her brows up in silent question. I smile. “I need some fresh air I shall finish the scarf later.” I quickly make an exit.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I felt rather than saw Will jogging toward me. I sit on the porch swing looking towards the mountains. They look so beautiful at this time; the sun was almost behind them. This was like a tradition with me. On New Year’s Eve I always sit on the porch and watch the sun go down. I sit there thinking of the past year, and what is to come in the next.
The sunset is gorgeous tonight. It’s as if the colors and intensity of the light is just enough to calm you. The sun is like a great big romantic, inspirational fire in the sky.
It’s as if a powerful symphony was quieting down, becoming more emotional and beautiful as it dies down. Its rays seem friendly. They remind me of an old friend, waving goodbye to you. With it’s fingers of pink and purple waving goodbye.
I hear boots on the boards of the porch and my heart does a flip. My heart needs to stop doing this. I refuse to look into those eyes, so much like mine. The steps slow down and soon stop in front of me. I continue to look at the sunset. The sun is now completely behind the mountains and the last rays of sun is slowly descending down. I see the first star blinking in the sky.
I know Will is still standing there but I don’t think my mind could handle it. I glance at Will under my lashes and see he is not staring at the sunset but at me. I feel the blush creep up my neck again. I quickly turn my eyes from him and look again at the mountains. I feel Will sigh in my soul. How do I have such a connection with him?
I feel Will look at me and then slowly walk to the porch swing, I feel him sit down. I finally sum up enough courage to look at Will. I slowly look up. He’s staring at me again! What’s that emotion in his eyes? Endearment? Affection? Dare I think love? No, that can’t be love. He slowly smiles. I feel my lip twitching up of its own accord. I need to break the connection but I can’t make myself do it. Will leans ever so slightly forward. I need to look away and move away. I quickly look away and stand up. I need to walk away, I need to be able to breath normally again.
I run off the porch to the barn, hoping he does not follow. I walk into the barn out of breath. I hunch over and grab my knees trying to catch my breath. I know I should be inside with my family, but I just need some time to myself. I need time to sort through what happened on the porch or lack there of. I can’t believe what Will almost did. Can he actually have feelings for me? I refuse to contemplate what happened.
I see Shining Star in her stall. I usually feel better once I brush Shining Star. I pick up a brush and head towards her stall. Shining star is about to foal any day now. Shining Star whinnies when she sees me. I step into her stall and gradually brush her and whisper calming things to her. Shining Star is a great confidante for people. I always come to her to talk to. Best part is she does not judge me.
I hear a noise behind me and my heart flutters. How does my heart automatically know who it is? I turn around to see Will in the doorway of the barn. The light in the barn illuminates his sandy colored hair to a golden color. Will slowly walks towards me. I drop the brush in my hand and step out of the stall. I meet him halfway. He clears his throat and puts his hands in his pockets. I recognize the movement as what he does when he’s nervous. I find it quite endearing that he’s nervous to be near me. I smile to try to help him not be so nervous. His smile is more of a nervous smile. He looks down ad clears his throat again. “Lizzy?”
“Yes, Will?”
“I uh, well, I uh, what I’m trying to say is, uh,” He clears his throat again. “Lizzy, you’re not making this any easier.” He smiles his amazing smile.
“Making what any easier, I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“What I’ve been trying to say is, uh,” he laughs nervously. He reaches for my hand and I gave it to him. “Lizzy,-”
“What’s going on in here?” Pa’s face was grim and his eyes radiated anger.
New Years Eve 1890
“Dear, why don’t you wear that brown dress that Charity gave you for your birthday for tonight’s service?” Ma asked me while she was working on her needlepoint in the parlor. I have yet to wear that dress for it makes me look like a frumpy horse.
“Ma, I was planning on wearing my green silk dress. I think it looks great with my eyes.”
I just hoped Ma agreed and says yes. I stopped my knitting. I looked into the eyes of the one woman that could make me feel safe or make me want to hide under the covers. Ma smiled, though small it was a smile. Ma rarely smiled. She felt adults should not show emotion it was a weakness. I on the other hand felt it was a strength. Showing your emotions to me help me cope with the world. She put down her needlepoint and took my hand.
“Dear, you may wear your green dress. Just promise me you’ll wear the brown dress to next Sunday’s service.” Might as well agree to it.
“I promise.” She released my hand and continued her needlepoint. I pick up my knitting and resumed knitting a scarf for Gamma.
I cannot say why I want to wear the green dress. It was my best dress, and it really brought out my eyes. I refuse to admit I want to wear it for Will. It’s simply just a coincidence that it’s Will’s favorite color. I wonder what would be Will’s reaction when he saw me in the dress. Would he like it or completely ignore it? Would I see the sparkle in his eyes I love oh so much?
Whoa, where did that come from? I felt the red creeping up my neck all the way up to my hairline. I so hope Ma do not notice the sudden color in my complexion. I ducked my head trying to hide it. I peek a look a Ma under my lashes. She’s still engrossed in her needlepoint. I inwardly exhale. She did not notice. I would get an onslaught of questions if she saw. I pick up my knitting and pack it up in the basket. I need fresh air. I stand up and head towards the door, hoping Ma does not question me. Ma looks up at me with her brows up in silent question. I smile. “I need some fresh air I shall finish the scarf later.” I quickly make an exit.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I felt rather than saw Will jogging toward me. I sit on the porch swing looking towards the mountains. They look so beautiful at this time; the sun was almost behind them. This was like a tradition with me. On New Year’s Eve I always sit on the porch and watch the sun go down. I sit there thinking of the past year, and what is to come in the next.
The sunset is gorgeous tonight. It’s as if the colors and intensity of the light is just enough to calm you. The sun is like a great big romantic, inspirational fire in the sky.
It’s as if a powerful symphony was quieting down, becoming more emotional and beautiful as it dies down. Its rays seem friendly. They remind me of an old friend, waving goodbye to you. With it’s fingers of pink and purple waving goodbye.
I hear boots on the boards of the porch and my heart does a flip. My heart needs to stop doing this. I refuse to look into those eyes, so much like mine. The steps slow down and soon stop in front of me. I continue to look at the sunset. The sun is now completely behind the mountains and the last rays of sun is slowly descending down. I see the first star blinking in the sky.
I know Will is still standing there but I don’t think my mind could handle it. I glance at Will under my lashes and see he is not staring at the sunset but at me. I feel the blush creep up my neck again. I quickly turn my eyes from him and look again at the mountains. I feel Will sigh in my soul. How do I have such a connection with him?
I feel Will look at me and then slowly walk to the porch swing, I feel him sit down. I finally sum up enough courage to look at Will. I slowly look up. He’s staring at me again! What’s that emotion in his eyes? Endearment? Affection? Dare I think love? No, that can’t be love. He slowly smiles. I feel my lip twitching up of its own accord. I need to break the connection but I can’t make myself do it. Will leans ever so slightly forward. I need to look away and move away. I quickly look away and stand up. I need to walk away, I need to be able to breath normally again.
I run off the porch to the barn, hoping he does not follow. I walk into the barn out of breath. I hunch over and grab my knees trying to catch my breath. I know I should be inside with my family, but I just need some time to myself. I need time to sort through what happened on the porch or lack there of. I can’t believe what Will almost did. Can he actually have feelings for me? I refuse to contemplate what happened.
I see Shining Star in her stall. I usually feel better once I brush Shining Star. I pick up a brush and head towards her stall. Shining star is about to foal any day now. Shining Star whinnies when she sees me. I step into her stall and gradually brush her and whisper calming things to her. Shining Star is a great confidante for people. I always come to her to talk to. Best part is she does not judge me.
I hear a noise behind me and my heart flutters. How does my heart automatically know who it is? I turn around to see Will in the doorway of the barn. The light in the barn illuminates his sandy colored hair to a golden color. Will slowly walks towards me. I drop the brush in my hand and step out of the stall. I meet him halfway. He clears his throat and puts his hands in his pockets. I recognize the movement as what he does when he’s nervous. I find it quite endearing that he’s nervous to be near me. I smile to try to help him not be so nervous. His smile is more of a nervous smile. He looks down ad clears his throat again. “Lizzy?”
“Yes, Will?”
“I uh, well, I uh, what I’m trying to say is, uh,” He clears his throat again. “Lizzy, you’re not making this any easier.” He smiles his amazing smile.
“Making what any easier, I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“What I’ve been trying to say is, uh,” he laughs nervously. He reaches for my hand and I gave it to him. “Lizzy,-”
“What’s going on in here?” Pa’s face was grim and his eyes radiated anger.
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