A Wedding at the Villa

A Wedding at the Villa

“Nettie, I feel like I'm 18 again. I can't believe I'm a blushing bride at my age.”

“You look beautiful, Evelyn. The little hint of pink in your cheeks is very becoming. Aren't you glad you listened to the children and agreed to a wedding with all of them witnessing your happiness?”

“I am, but I'm not too sure about Dudley. He was ready to run off last night to find a justice of the peace just so he wouldn't have to say his vows in front of an audience. It's funny because he can talk for hours about an artifact from the 18^th century to a group of strangers, but ask him to declare his love in front of friends and family and his nerves begin to fray. He's such an odd man, Nettie, maybe that's why I love him so much.”

“He may be odd but he loves you too. I can see it in his eyes whenever he glances your way. I'm so happy you found love again after all these years.”

“I am too.”

“They're playing our song,” came Harvey Wilson's voice from the other side of the door. “Your groom awaits.”

Nettie opened the door and Harvey's face showed his approval of the bride. He extended his arm. It was his honor to escort Evelyn down the aisle of the villa's chapel.

With Nettie in the lead, Harvey and Evelyn walked to her waiting bridegroom. Dudley looked anxious until he saw his bride. He waited all his life for this woman and he wasn't going to let a case of nerves ruin this day. He smiled and all was right with the world.

Vicar Will performed the ceremony. The chapel was filled with folks from Greensboro and Camden Corners. The children who lived in the villa were gathered together. They loved Miss Evelyn and were happy Mr. Dudley was going to be living at the villa with her.

The reception was filled with laughter and children of all ages. Many of the youngsters had lived a short time at the villa themselves and were reunited with Miss Evelyn, the staff and their friends.

The bride and groom cut the cake and took off for a short honeymoon which consisted of two nights at the Greensboro Hotel. The staff insisted Evelyn take some time off. She didn't want to go too far in case she was needed at the villa.

The next day, Hattie and Jessica stayed at the villa to visit with their friends. Oscar and Nettie went into town to the apartment house where the girls lived with their grandmother. Evelyn had given them the name of Mrs. Oliver who lived across the hall from the grandmother's old apartment. Evelyn said she was very chatty and could probably help them discover more about their daughters' family.

“Mrs. Oliver?”

“Who are you?”

“I'm Oscar Crowley and this is my wife, Nettie. We would like to ask you a few questions about Hattie and Jessica who lived across the hall.”

“What about them? I didn't do anything wrong. I couldn't take those girls in, I have barely enough food for myself. I had to call the authorities.”

“I'm sure you did the right thing, Mrs. Oliver,” Nettie said in her soothing voice. “We have adopted the girls and would like to know about their family, if there is any.”

“Aren't you two a little old to be their parents?”

“Yes, we are older than most parents but we love them very much and we are trying to give them a good home.”

“Well, I guess it's alright. Come in and I'll tell you everything I know.”

Nettie and Oscar took a seat on the shabby sofa. Nettie had the feeling Mrs. Oliver didn't have many visitors and was happy for the company.

“Poor Minnie Dean, she had her hands full with those twins after her daughter, Rosella died. Rosella was a frail little thing. Minnie said she had rheumatic fever when she was just a wee babe and was never healthy a day after that. I remember Rosella was very pretty, she had big blue eyes and a pert little nose. Minnie coddled her all her life.

“Gerald Long had a terrible crush on her in high school. It's too bad Minnie didn't let them court. Rosella might still be alive today.

“Minnie worked as a maid in the big hotel downtown. Rosella wanted to get a job after she graduated but her mother insisted she stay at home and rest. Poor Rosella, I know she felt useless. Minnie had no idea Rosella would sneak out of the apartment just to take a walk while her mother was at work.

“During the fall of that year, a young fellow by the name of Cloy Livingston moved into the apartment down the hall. Oh, he was a smooth character. Rosella took one look at him and fell hook, line and sinker. He used to stop her in the hall and tell her how pretty she was. She would giggle and run back into the apartment. This would go on day after day. Cloy would go out at night and come home with one floozy after another. He was simply no good.

“Rosella never knew about his nightly visitors because Minnie made sure she was in bed and asleep by eight o'clock every evening. I never spied on Rosella, mind you. I just happened to have my door opened a crack whenever she and Cloy would meet in the hall. After a few months, I noticed Rosella would slip into his apartment. It was a disgrace, I tell you, an utter disgrace.

“It was none of my business, of course but I couldn't help but notice when Rosella began to put on weight. I'll never forget the day she confessed to her mama that she was expecting a baby. Minnie shouted at the girl so loud the walls shook. She marched down the hall to Cloy Livingston's room and pounded on the door. You have probably guessed this already, but Mr. Cloy Livingston was nowhere to be found. Poor Rosella, she was so distraught I thought she might lose the baby then and there. At least I thought it was only one baby at the time.

“The months went by and Rosella never recovered from her misery. Minnie told everyone that Rosella and Cloy had been married and Cloy died in a tragic accident shortly after the marriage. Of course, nobody believed a word of it. It was becoming obvious that Rosella was carrying more than one baby. She went into labor way too early. Minnie delivered her grandchildren and kept them alive by holding them close to the warm stove and feeding them sugar water with an eye dropper. Poor Rosella, she never recovered from the birth and died when the twins were less than a week old. I do believe she died of a broken heart.

“Minnie cared for those precious babies. She gave up her job and took in laundry to support herself and the twins until they started school. After that she worked at the bakery. She would get up at 3:00 in the morning six days a week. She would run home during her break to see the girls off to school and she was always home when school let out.

“She kept up this schedule for years until one day she collapsed as she was walking to the bakery. The poor little girls were orphans. They came home that day and their grandmother was gone. That was when I called the authorities to report them abandoned. I never knew what happened to them after that day. I'm glad they are well and happy.”

“That is a very sad story Mrs. Oliver. Thank you for telling us. I assume you never saw Cloy Livingston again?”

“He never dared show his face around here. I'm sure he knew poor Rosella was in a family way. He hightailed it out of town so he wouldn't have to face Minnie. I can't say I blame him, Minnie would have boxed his ears but good. The man was a coward and a weasel. Those babies were better off without him.”

“Thank you again for your help Mrs. Oliver.”

“Of course, if I think of anything else, I'll call Mrs. Keys at the villa. She seems such a nice lady.”

“What do you think Oscar? Should we look for Cloy Livingston or do you think we should just let it alone?”

“I'm not sure, Nettie. We suspected the twins' father would not be a fine upstanding gentleman. Maybe it's better if we don't pursue it any further. On the other hand, if we don't do everything we are able to find the girls' father, are we doing them a disservice? I might have a private investigator check into it. We may be setting ourselves up for extortion. If that's the case, do we really want the girls to know their father would be a part of something like that?”

“I'm sure you will do the right thing, Oscar. You always do.” Nettie knew Oscar would carefully consider all his options and come up with the right answer eventually.

Six weeks later, Oscar received a report from the private investigator stating that Cloy Livingston had been killed in a fist fight in June of 1901. There was no evidence Mr. Livingston had any living relatives.

“Nettie, I don't see any reason to share this information with anyone.”

In a small apartment in New York City, Lloyd Palmer was gazing out the window.

“Are you still thinking of the twins, Lloyd?”

“Yes, I know they are better off not knowing about me but it still hurts. I don't know why I assumed Cloy's identity when I lived in Greensboro. Cloy was a ladies man, maybe I thought if I used his name I would be a hit with the ladies too. Instead, I paid for any attention they gave me. All except Rosella. She was such a sweet little thing. I ran when she told me she was expecting a baby. What a coward I was.”

“If only you hadn't thrown the first punch when you and Cloy fought. You wouldn't have spent three years in prison.”

“Cloy wouldn't be dead either. No, Ruby, I deserved the time I served.”

“You are turning your life around Lloyd. Maybe you should rethink telling that investigator the truth. I told you I would be willing to help you raise your daughters.”

“Ruby, don't make me sorry I told you the truth. Those girls are with a family who loves them. Maybe I don't have the kind of money Mr. Crowley does to hire a high class investigator but I have done my own investigating. They are better off in Camden Corners with two parents who love them. If I were to win custody of them, what would they have? A life in a rat infested apartment with a jailbird for a father. No Ruby, you will not tell anyone my secret. It's the least I can do for my daughters.”

Lloyd never did tell Hattie and Jessica that he was their father. He often traveled to Camden Corners on business and would catch a glimpse of them through the years. They looked so much like their mama and more so every time he saw them. He was a cad for taking advantage of Rosella but he did love her. He was just a kid himself back then. If only he'd had the courage to stay in Greensboro. His life would have been so different. Who knows, with the love of a good woman he may have been able to make something of himself.

Feels Like Home

Feels Like Home

“Jessie, can you believe our good fortune? Miss Nettie is our mother and Mr. Oscar is our father. Look at this beautiful room. I've never seen such sheer curtains before in all my life. Do you think we are rich?” Hattie said as she unpacked the few items she called her own.

“I don't know if we are rich but isn't this the softest bed you have ever felt. I can't believe when we woke up this morning we were living at the villa and now we are here in a whole new town with brand new parents.”

Nettie knocked on the door. “Girls, are you hungry? Miss Trudy has cooked up a scrumptious meal for us this evening. Your brothers will be here to meet you very soon.”

Hattie threw the door open. “Miss Nettie, this room is the most beautiful room I have ever seen. I always imagined our mama in a big fluffy bed like this. Grandmother says she was very sick and had to stay in bed after we were born.”

“Oh my darling child. I'm sure she had a bed just like yours and two beautiful babies to look at while you slept.”

“Grandmother says we looked like little prunes when we were born. The doctor said we wouldn't live through the night because we were too small. Grandmother fed us with a little eye dropper and after a few days she said we began squalling all the time. Grandmother didn't like doctors very much. She said they were all quacks. For the longest time I thought the ducks in the pond in the park were doctors.”

The three of them giggled and walked out of the room.

Richard and Robert had arrived with Lily and Emma and the babies. Matthew and Catherine were seven months old and full of energy. They giggled when they saw their grandma and grandpa.

“Jessica is going to be learning to refinish furniture? She and Josie Blackburn are taking lessons from Dudley Hanover. Do you mind the long trip back to Greensboro, Jessie?” asked Oscar.

“Oh no, Mr. Oscar. I will be dreaming about learning how to make something old pretty again. That's what Mr. Hanover tells us he will teach us.”

“Tell your brothers how you got yourself into Mr. Hanover's class, Jessica.”

“Oh dear, I'm afraid I was deceitful. I dressed up in boys clothes and I hid my hair under a cap. I fooled Mr. Hanover but I didn't fool Miss Evelyn.”

Richard and Robert laughed. “Nobody ever fooled Miss Evelyn, Jessie. She knew every trick any child could think up.” said Robert.

“Did you come from the villa too?”

“No, honey. Miss Evelyn was the principal of Camden Corners Grammar School before she moved to Greensboro to be headmistress of the villa.”

“Miss Evelyn is very nice, I like her a lot.” said Hattie.

“I think Mr. Hanover likes her too.” Oscar said with a chuckle.

“Mr. Hanover is a wonderful man. I think it's terrific that he and Evelyn are stepping out.” said Emma. She knew Mr. Hanover through her grandfather, Amos.

Back in Greensboro, Dudley Hanover was nervously waiting for Evelyn Keys to finish giving instructions to her assistant.

“I'm sorry, Mr. Hanover. This is the first time I have left the villa for the evening since I came here last year. I'm afraid I'm being a bit overly cautious. I'm sure they will get along just fine without me.”

“Take your time, Mrs. Keys, I understand.”

“I suppose if we are out on an informal occasion, we should drop the Mr. and Mrs. Please call me Evelyn and may I call you Dudley?”

“I would like that Evelyn. I'd like us to be honest with each other. I am not a man who has courted very many women. I'm afraid I am very nervous this evening.”

“I'm nervous too, Dudley. I haven't been alone with a man since my husband died over twenty years ago. Maybe together we can just relax and enjoy a nice evening as friends.”

“That sounds delightful.”

“How did your interest in furniture refinishing begin, Dudley?”

“I have always had an interest in history and feel the furniture of our ancestors reveal much about the way they lived. Amos Patterson owned the old Patterson's General Store here in Greensboro. He was a collector who knew everything there was to know about fine old furniture.”

“Emma Crowley's grandfather. I never met him but have heard Nettie and Ethel Fulbright speak of him often.”

“Amos taught me everything I know. We lost a treasure when that man died. I know Emma and I'm sure she is carrying on Amos' legacy. I'm a tax attorney by trade which is quite the contrast to refurnishing furniture. Enough about me, what brought you to Greensboro and the villa?”

As you know, my husband passed away many years ago. Much to my regret, we never had children of our own. It seemed only natural that I continue my teaching. The principal of the school became ill and I filled in for him as there was no one else to do the job. I'm sure if a man had been available, I would never have been considered. Unfortunately, the principal didn't recover and I just kept filling in for him. After several years of being a temporary principal, they made it official. I didn't care for their methods, but I loved the children so much I just went along with it. When Harvey Wilson suggested I might like to be in charge of the villa, I jumped at the chance. Harvey has given me full control over the operation. I will be forever grateful for his faith in me.”

“What do you think of our town? It isn't as friendly as Camden Corners but we try to make newcomers feel welcome.”

“It seems friendly enough to me. It is much larger than Camden Corners and that makes a difference. To be honest, I don't leave the villa grounds very often. That's why this is such a nice treat for me.”

Dudley found Evelyn to be an easy person to be around. He hated for the evening to end. He walked her to the front door of the villa. He wanted to give her a kiss on the cheek but was afraid they would be spotted by one of the children.

Evelyn sensed his reluctance. “Dudley would you like to come into my suite for a glass of sherry?”

“Would that be acceptable, Evelyn? I wouldn't want to cause any problems for you.”

“I am allowed guests, Dudley. This is my home, after all.”

Dudley was impressed with Evelyn's living quarters. “Why this is just like an apartment. You have your own parlor and kitchen. You have it decorated beautifully. It looks like you.”

“I'll take that as a compliment,” Evelyn laughed.

“It was meant that way. Evelyn, I am not a man of the world by any means but I do find you very attractive. I enjoyed being your friend this evening but I would like to be much more than that. Do you think we could begin a courtship?”

“I think we already have,” said Evelyn as she handed Dudley a glass of sherry. Her eyes sparkled as she stood on the tips of her toes and kissed the shy Dudley Hanover directly on the lips. “Dudley, we are not adolescents who have all the time in the world. As you can see, there is plenty of room here for two. Now let's drink our sherry and talk about the future.”

“You get right to the point, don't you Evelyn?”

“I know what I want and I'm willing to ask for it. I hope you like children, Dudley.”

“I'm crazy about them and I'm crazy about you.” Dudley set his glass down and took Evelyn in his arms.

“Oh Dudley!” she said as he covered her mouth with kisses.

In Camden Corners, the Crowleys were calling it a night. Nettie read the twins a story and tucked them in. She joined Oscar in the room they shared.

“I wonder how Evelyn and Dudley are getting along. Wouldn't it be nice if they became a couple?”

“If I know Dudley, he is still calling his date Miss Evelyn. He has always been timid around women.”

“I don't know why, he is certainly a handsome fellow with impeccable manners. Any woman would be proud to have him on her arm.”

“His mother was a dear lady but very dependent on Dudley. From what I have been told, even in school she would make him come home early from outings with his friends. I think eventually he stopped going out socially. He is the best tax attorney in the state but that didn't do much for his social standings. The work he does with the furniture doesn't exactly require any social contact either. Now he has chosen being the proprietor of a history museum. He needs a woman who will bring him out of his shell. If anyone can do that it will be Mrs. Evelyn Keys.”

“Evelyn is such a lovely woman. As much as she loves those children, I'm sure she has enjoyed spending some time with a gentleman. Do you think he will kiss her goodnight, Oscar?”

“I don't think he will work up the nerve to shake her hand. I'd say it will be early December before he gets around to that first kiss.”

“The twins seemed to have a good time tonight. I was afraid they might have been overwhelmed by all the commotion but they seemed to fit right in.”

“They are very sweet girls, aren't they? I wonder what the story is with the parents. It sounds as though their mother died after giving birth to them. I wonder where the father is.”

“I could ask a few questions in Greensboro if you really want to know,” said Oscar.

“I don't know. We might be sorry to learn the answer. What do you think Oscar?”

“Maybe I'll take a ride with Josie and Jessica tomorrow. I think I'll ask Evelyn her opinion. I will also ask about the dinner date tonight.”

“Are you sure that isn't the main reason you want to see Evelyn. I wonder if Hattie would like to ride along too. We could always do some shopping while Jessica is in class. The girls do need some new dresses and Greensboro has so much more of a selection than Camden Corners.”

“It's settled then. We will all leave for Greensboro in the morning.”

Trudy was busy making breakfast for the travelers. “Just can't wait to hear all about Miss Evelyn's engagement last evening, is that it Miss Nettie?”

“Trudy, you know me so well it frightens me. We are also going to do some shopping. Jessica has agreed to let Hattie pick out some dresses for her. Is there anything you need in Greensboro, Trudy?”

“No ma'am. Anything I can't find right here in Camden Corners I don't need. Why you want to spend your hard earned money in the big city is beyond me.”

“Trudy, someday I am going to insist you visit Greensboro. It is a very nice town. Many of the people who live in Camden Corners are from Greensboro.”

“If it's so great why didn't they stay there. No, if you ask me, that place is sin city and I don't want any part of it.”

Oscar walked in. “Trudy are you going on about the evils of the big city again? You really need to get out more.”

Trudy stomped off to her room. Nobody knew why Trudy, an otherwise reasonable woman, was so against Greensboro. Oscar suspected an old beau may have left Trudy and Camden Corners to explore the big city and was never to return again.

“Are we ready to go? Josie will be waiting for us. Won't she be surprised when she sees the whole family?”

“The whole family! Doesn't that sound nice Hattie?”

“It certainly does, Jessica.” Hattie replied as she squeezed Nettie's hand.

The Lesson

The Lesson

“I would be happy to meet Mr. Hanover. Our paths just don't seem to cross. I have wanted to tell him personally what a fine thing he is doing for the children. Not only does he guide them in the correct way to bring a piece of furniture to life again, his knowledge of history is vast. I'll just finish up some of this paperwork while you say hello to the children.”

Nettie and Oscar strolled through the villa greeting the children as they played. They knew many of them through previous visits. There were always new faces which was both happy and sad. Happy that these children had found a place where people really cared about them and sad because there weren't enough facilities like this.

“Hi Miss Nettie.”

“Hello Mr. Oscar.” The children all shouted at them on their walk.

“Are you reading us a story today Miss Nettie?”

“Maybe later this afternoon, dear.”

“Where are Leah and Alfie?”

“They are back with their mama and papa now. Isn't that wonderful?”

“Oh yes. That is so wonderful,” said a dark haired girl of around fourteen.

“Your name is Hattie, isn't that right?”

“Yes ma'am. I'm Hattie and my sister is Jessie. She isn't here right now. I have to be going, Miss Nettie. I hope I see you later.” Hattie ran off.

“Wasn't that strange, Oscar? Hattie seemed almost afraid of us. I wonder what she and her sister are up to?”

“You can always spot a child who is about to get into mischief. You have a gift, Nettie.” Oscar laughed.

“Yes, I think any teacher has a sixth sense about a child who is about to get into trouble. I like Hattie and Jessie. I'd guess they are close to 15 years old. I remember Evelyn saying they lived with a grandmother and when she died a year ago, there was nobody to take them in. They are twins who aren't identical but look enough alike to fool people. It makes me wonder where Jessie is at the moment.”

“There you two are. Shall we take my automobile? Oscar, when are you going to break down and buy yourself a horseless carriage?”

“Nothing wrong with my trusty horses. I see way too many people stopped on the road with those contraptions spitting and sputtering. Give me a couple of fine horses and a shiny carriage, and there's no stopping me.”

They arrived at the Green Hill Inn at precisely 12:30. Dudley was waiting for them in the vestibule. “Hello everyone. Mrs. Keys, I'm Dudley Hanover. It is a pleasure to meet you.” Evelyn Keys was even prettier in person. Dudley felt the color rise in his cheeks.

“Mr. Hanover, the pleasure is mine. I have been remiss in thanking you for all you have done for the children.”

“They are the ones who bring me joy. Those boys take such pride in their work and are open to learning all I have stored in this old head of mine.”

Evelyn's life had been filled with children since her husband passed away many years ago. It never occurred to her to become involved with another man. She found herself wondering what it would be like to have Dudley Hanover waiting for her at the end of a long day.

“Would you like to see the museum after lunch?”

“I certainly would,” said Oscar. “I had a glimpse of some of those enormous pieces of furniture the Clarke's had delivered. Poor Philip, he hadn't realized how big they all were until he tried to fit them in his rather small house.”

“His loss was certainly the museum's gain. The boys are working on the dining table now. We have four boys here today. My assistant, Mr. Harper, is overseeing them but they don't need any supervision. I think you will be amazed at how well they are doing.”

The foursome walked into the massive room. “Hello fellows, come say hello to Mr. and Mrs. Crowley.”

Three of the boys stood up and politely shook hands with the Crowleys. Evelyn was surprised the one boy didn't follow them. “Who is that over there? Ross, go see what is keeping that young man.”

“I think he's working on a very delicate corner, Miss Evelyn. Maybe we should let him be.”

“Alright. What's up? Who are you? Come over here right this minute.”

A familiar face peered out from behind the table. “Take your hat off, lad.”

The hat came off and long hair flowed from beneath.

“Jessica Farmer? Is that you? What in heaven's name are you doing here young lady?”

“I'm sorry Miss Evelyn. I so wanted to learn how to make the furniture pretty again. Mr. Dudley knows so much about these beautiful things. I didn't mean any harm.”

“Jessie, you know this class is for boys only. Did Hattie help you with your deception?”

“I made her help me, Miss Evelyn. Don't punish her, please.”

“I'm not going to punish anyone, dear. You know you can't be here. Especially alone with all these boys. Now take off those overalls and give them back to Mr. Hanover.”

“Golly, Miss Evelyn. Jessie is really a good worker. We fellows don't mind that she is with us. Please let her stay.”

“Ross, I'd love to let her stay but there are rules and I must follow all of the rules, not just the ones I like. I wish it could be different.”

“I'm so very sorry, Miss Evelyn. I had no idea Jess was a girl.”

“How would you know when she is dressed like a ruffian. The boys knew and they went along with the deception. We are the ones who owe you an apology,” Evelyn said.

“Boys, you get back to work and Jessica, change your clothes and meet us outside.” Evelyn snickered as she turned her back. “I'm sorry Dudley, those children do stick together.”

“You aren't angry with them or me then?”

“No, of course not. I think it's wonderful that Jessie wants to learn a trade. I wish I didn't have to be the one to discourage her. As headmistress of the villa, I can't allow a young lady to be in the presence of only males. The state, or the people in charge, think females should be satisfied learning to sew and knit and take care of household chores. Heaven forbid we would like to learn skills to build a house or even repair a table leg. I'm sorry, I don't mean to let my frustration show.”

“Don't be silly, I like a feisty woman. In fact, Miss Evelyn, I like you very much. Would you care to have dinner with me this evening? Maybe we will be able to figure out a way Jessie can continue her work with me.”

“Are you thinking what I'm thinking Oscar?”

“If you are thinking about Josie Blackburn then we are on the same wavelength, my dear.”

Evelyn spoke up. “Josie Blackburn. She would be perfect for the job.” She explained to Dudley. “Josie bought a cottage by the lake. She was in the process of remodeling it when she met and married Reggie Blackburn. He has helped her along the way but she had so much of it done before that. I wonder if she would be interested in sitting in on some of your lessons, Dudley? She could act as guardian to Jessica.”

“I will call her as soon as I get back to my office. Dudley, I will fill you in at dinner tonight. If we are still on?”

“That will be fine, I'll stop by the villa at 6:30 if that isn't too early. Oscar and Nettie, would you like to join us?”

“We will leave you two lovebirds on your own this evening,” Oscar said as Nettie told him to stop his teasing. “We are dining with the Prestons and Cooper children.”

“That's right,” said Nettie, “Gladys asked that you join us. I'll tell her you are otherwise engaged for the evening. I did promise the children a story or two. Dudley, it has been a pleasure. I hope Evelyn and Josie are able to work something out.”

Jessica came out of the back room. Her hair was brushed and she was wearing a dress. She handed Dudley the overalls. “I'm very sorry, Mr. Hanover. I won't sneak in here with the boys again.” The disappointment on her face tore at Dudley's heartstrings.

“Jessica, you are a very talented young lady. I hope our paths will cross again in the very near future.”

Dudley shook Evelyn's hand. Ross and his friends snickered. They were tempted to voice their observation about a budding romance but decided they'd better not press their luck with Miss Evelyn.

Nettie was reading to the younger children. Oscar was playing catch with some of the boys on the playground. Evelyn came out of her office. “Josie has said she would love to accompany Jessica to Mr. Hanover's. She is excited at the prospect of learning to renovate furniture. It seems Jonas Fulbright has been helping her with just that. She is going to ask if Jonas can tag along too. She is sure he will want to. Come with me when you are finished here, Nettie. I can't wait to share the news with Jessica.”

Nettie found it difficult to concentrate on the children's story. Her mind was swirling. She was happy when she saw Oscar walk through the doors. Evelyn was telling him about Josie. He smiled his biggest smile and walked over to his wife.

“That's all for now children. Why don't you run outside and play until suppertime.”

“Oscar are we thinking the same thing again?”

“I think so dear, it's time we had a couple of teenage girls in our home.”

“How much easier it would be if Josie had a riding companion on her way to Greensboro a couple of times a week for the lessons. It would be such a long ride by herself with baby Jonathan to care for. Oscar, are you sure? Do you think Jessica and Hattie would want to live in our home?”

“Evelyn, what do you think?”

“You two have just made this day perfect. I thought the twins would be a happy addition to your family even before you arrived this morning. I'll go get them so we can all share the good news.”

Evelyn walked into the room Jessie and Hattie shared with two other girls. “Come with me ladies, Mr. & Mrs. Crowley would like to speak with you.”

Hattie held her sister's hand as she whispered, “I hope Miss Nettie isn't so mad at us that we have to leave here. Jessie, do you think we are on our way to the orphanage?”

“I won't let them take you there Hattie. It was all my fault. I should never have pretended to be a boy.”

Nettie could see the girls were shaking as they entered Miss Evelyn's office. “What is wrong, girls? We just wanted to talk to you.”

“Miss Nettie, please don't send Hattie to the orphanage. She doesn't deserve to be punished for what I did.”

“If Jessica goes, then I will go too. She will be lonely without me there.”

“What is all this talk about an orphanage?” said Miss Evelyn. “Mr. & Mrs. Crowley want to adopt you and take you home to Camden Corners with them.”

“You want to adopt both of us? Not just Hattie?” cried Jessica.

“We want you both. We wouldn't dream of separating you. I hope you will like our home. Some of your friends from the villa are living with other families in town. We also have a surprise for you Jessie.” Nettie told her about the plan for her to continue her lessons with Mr. Hanover.

Both girls threw their arms around Nettie and Oscar. “This is the happiest day of our whole lives,” exclaimed Hattie as she brushed away her tears.

The Ship has Arrived

The Shipment Has Arrived

“I'll miss this sight, Nettie,” Minerva said as she walked into the kitchen of the Crowley house.

“What sight is that, Minerva?”

“You, sitting at the table, writing words of wisdom in your journal.”

Nettie laughed, “I don't know how wise my words are. This is something I started the day I came to Camden Corners. My first reaction to Mr. Oscar Crowley is tucked away in these pages. It's almost embarrassing the way I described our first meeting. I think someone reading this 100 years from now would think they'd never heard of an old woman acting in such a foolish way.”

“You? Foolish? I don't believe that for one moment. Besides, Oscar is a very handsome man, I don't blame you for developing a crush on him.”

“Who has a crush on me?” Oscar walked through the door with a smile on his face. “I hope this young lady still feels that way about an old man.” He hugged Nettie and planted a kiss on her cheek.

“I don't see any old men around here,” said Philip as he poured himself a cup of coffee.

“Good morning, Philip. Looks like the day has finally come when you and the family will be moving into your new home. Nettie and I are happy for you but we will miss you and the children being here every morning.”

Leah and Alfie ran into the room. They were all dressed for school with their hair slicked down. Trudy had fixed their breakfast earlier. Nettie and Oscar looked at the children. They were both thinking of the day they brought them home just a few months ago. Neither child spoke much, they had been warned something terrible would happen to their parents if they told anyone about being abducted. After murdering the children's former nanny, the kidnapper smuggled them onto a ship headed for the the United States. Leah and Alfie saw the man being thrown off the side of the ship into the ocean, but were still afraid for their parent's safety. When the ship landed in New York City, they were stopped by a policeman and sent to Warren's Hillside Villa where the Crowley's found them and offered them a temporary home in Camden Corners. After the children began feeling comfortable with the Crowley's and their parents finally revealed the kidnapping to the authorities in England, the family was reunited and all were living together again in Camden Corners. Philip and Minerva fell in love with the town and made the decision to move to the United States permanently. They bought a house and Philip rented a shop on Main Street where he was in the process of opening a book store.

“Miss Nettie? Have you written about Leah and me in your journal?”

“Oh yes, Alfie, many pages in my journal are about you and Leah. One of these days I'll read the passages to you. In fact, all of the ladies in Camden Corners are putting their journals from the last couple of years into an old trunk along with a few mementos. The trunk will be kept in Miss Millie's attic in Merryweather's. We will open the trunk in 10 years and see what everyone wrote in their journals. Minerva, you should start your own journal. You are a part of our community now.”

“Yes, Mama, please do it. I want to see what you write about what a little stinker Alfie is.” Leah teased her brother as Alfie pretended to give her a swat.

It was nice to see the children act like children again. Minerva knew she had the Crowley's to thank for turning all their lives around.

“I'll have to write about how late you were for school today if you two don't hurry on your way.”

The youngsters kissed everyone goodbye and were out the door.

“Minerva, I think we'd better be on our way. We are expected at the bank in a few minutes to sign the papers for the house. Everything is happening at once. Our belongings and all of the books should be arriving this morning. Oscar, I've arranged for some of Reggie Blackburn's construction crew to help with the moving. My solicitor, back in England said there were well over 200 crates filled with books. I hope I have enough room in the shop to store them.”

“Trudy and I will be available to help you dust or wash windows. Whatever you need us to do, Minerva. Remember, take your time moving in. We love having you here and you want the house to be in perfect order when you and the children begin living there.”

“Thank you, Nettie. I don't know what we would do without you. I think I will start my own journal. I don't want to ever forget how I felt when my babies were missing. I know I'll never take our family for granted again. I want to enjoy every moment we have on this earth.”

The Clarkes left for the bank and Oscar thought he'd visit his old law firm to see what was going on there. Nettie was left with her thoughts and her journal. She had completed two years. One was already in the trunk and she would be taking the other to Merryweather's this afternoon. Millie invited a few of the women for tea. They were all bringing along their memories of 1904. As Nettie looked through the pages, the milestones stood out. There were so many babies born the previous year it was difficult to keep track. Those babies were beginning to grow too. She couldn't believe little Freddie Evans would be a year old the following month. She remembered how thrilled Caroline Bentley was at the prospect of being a grandmother and a new mother herself just a few months later. She wondered when Caroline ever found the time to write in a journal.

She thought of last January when after a delightful stay at their cabin on Cedar Lake, Oscar had been arrested for murder. Of course it was all a mistake, but the incident gave Nettie the shivers. “Best not to dwell on the the unhappy times,” Nettie said out loud, “the good times certainly outweigh the bad.”

There was a knock on the door. “Clovis, how nice to see you. Please come in, I have a fresh pot of coffee made. Please sit down and tell me what you and Jed have been up to.”

“It's good to see you too, Nettie. Jed and I have been reading so many books, we came down this morning to give these back to Helene and have her select more for us. Jed thinks we may be ready to try something without pictures.” Clovis laughed. “It's terrible when you can't read as well as a ten year old child.”

“Don't be silly, you and Jed never had the training a ten year old has. It takes time for a child to comprehend what they are reading and you and Jed have already mastered that skill. You are doing a fine job and don't belittle yourselves.”

“I wish I had learned to read years ago. It would have made the time that Jed was away pass more quickly.”

“Tell me Clovis, I know it's not my business, but that never stopped me before. Did you ever think of coming down the mountain to find Jed?”

“Oh yes, I thought of it. I'm sorry I didn't but we have a code in the mountains. We never forgive unless we are asked to and Jed never asked to be forgiven for leaving me. I shamed myself when I went with him that day he came to see me. He never did ask forgiveness. I didn't want to take a chance he would leave without me so I didn't go through the formalities. I'm sure I have been shunned by our people but I really don't care. I have loved Jed since the day I learned how to speak his name. I am exactly where I belong.”

“I'm happy you decided to follow him. We have enjoyed knowing both of you. Now, is there something I can help you with today?”

“I stopped by Nichol's and picked up a journal book just like yours. I was hoping you would be able to help me with my spelling and grammar. I don't want people to think we mountain folk are backward when they read these 100 years from now. I have written my thoughts on a tablet and will transfer them to the book if you think they are correct.”

Nettie looked over the writings. “Clovis, you write beautifully. The handwriting is quite lovely, the spelling and grammar are perfect. What you have to say is very moving. I think you should continue on and I don't see any reason for you to practice first.”

“Nettie, you are so kind. I only wish it hadn't taken Jed so long to come back for me.”

“Clovis, you know Philip is opening his book store very soon. I know he will be looking for writers to feature. Why don't you try your hand at it? I would be glad to help you. I know Max and Sarah Harcourt will be introducing their latest novels in Camden Corners very own book store. They would be happy to help you also, I'm sure.”

“Maybe, I'll do just that. Jed and I will be back in about a week. Maybe Philip's shop will be open by then. I'll be sure we visit the store.”

Philip was amazed at the amount of items being lifted off the train. He told his staff in England to carefully select the furniture they would need in Camden Corners. There was enough furniture here to fully furnish five houses. He and Minerva had to decide which items they would be using and which they would not. Jonas Fulbright was there with his buckboard ready to help them with the move. Jonas ended up taking more pieces to the antique shop and Merryweather's than he did to the new Clarke residence.

Minerva, with the help of Trudy and Nettie had the house dust free and clean as a whistle when the first load arrived.

“Oh dear,” Minerva sighed, “this furniture is much too large for our house. It never looked this big in the castle. Now I'm sorry we had it all shipped over here.”

“You are right my dear, we will have to buy some smaller items. For right now, I'm afraid it will have to do. We will gradually replace it all, but if we want to live in our home anytime soon, we'll have to use what we have.”

Even without the four extension leaves, the dining room table fit twelve.

“It's the table or the chairs. We can't fit both in that dining room. We can't use the canopy on the bed because the ceilings aren't tall enough,” said a frustrated Philip. “I wish I had thought of measuring but I'm so accustomed to having everything done for me.”

“Don't worry dear, we will manage. I've asked Emma and Lily to stop by. They may have some suggestions. I didn't realize how dark and old all these things are. I realize they are valuable, but I am finding I prefer simpler furniture.”

Lily and Emma couldn't wait to see the authentic English pieces. They knew just the house for them. It wasn't in Camden Corners but in Greensboro. Dudley Hanover was opening a museum there on his family's estate. Dudley had been in town just the other day looking for pieces just like these.

“We will have the men move them into the Merryweather location for now. I think we can work on finding you some small pieces that will work for you. You may use them until you find what you really need,” said Emma.

“I'm going to call Dudley right now. I'm sure he would be interested in all of this fine old furniture. I wish I had room to store it for you, Minerva. These pieces may be more than Dudley is able to spend.”

“Lily, Philip has never had to worry about money and I doubt he will start now. I think he'd rather give it away than have to worry about it any further. I'll talk to him, but if your friend can put it to good use, I think that will be fine.”

Between the antique shop and Merryweather's, the Clarke house was fully furnished by late afternoon. The bed linens were too large for the smaller beds but they would do until Minerva was able to have some new bed coverings made. The family was able to spend their first night in their own home. Tears were shed as they said goodbye to the Crowleys.

Nettie and Oscar sat in their parlor after supper. Both agreed, a trip to Greensboro and Warren's Hilltop Villa was in order.

“There must be a child or two out there who would like to come to Camden Corners, Oscar.”

“I agree, Nettie. It is difficult to say goodbye, but we know the Clarkes belong together and I'm happy we were a part of the children's lives when they needed some extra love.”

Dudley Hanover was beside himself. “This is a dream come true, Lily. I will be able to fill all the rooms in the estate. I thought it would take me 10 years of collecting.”

“I thought you would be pleased Dudley. Emma spoke with Philip Clarke this afternoon and he insists on donating everything to the museum.”

“Lily, I'd like to ask you something of a personal nature. I'm rather embarrassed, but I find myself attracted to a young woman in Greensboro. I know she was originally from Camden Corners and I wonder if you know her.”

“Who would that be Dudley?” Lily couldn't imagine who he could be talking about.

“Miss Evelyn, the headmistress at Warren's Hilltop Villa.” His face turned scarlet.

“Dudley, Evelyn Keys is a wonderful woman. I couldn't think of a better match for her than you. How did you meet her?”

“We haven't officially met. I saw her when I went to the villa to inquire about one or two of the boys helping me refinish some old furniture for the museum. It occurred to me that it was a skill I could teach while the boys made a little spending money for themselves. I have met with a young girl named Peggy. She is a lovely young woman and has sent several boys my way since my first inquiry. Every time I visit, Miss Evelyn has been away from the facility or speaking to prospective parents. She wrote me a note thanking me for my generosity and it was so endearing I knew I had to formally meet her, but I didn't know how.”

“I'd say you have a problem, Dudley. Not to worry, I know just the person who will be able to help you and I will call her right away.”

“Hello Lily, how nice to hear from you. Yes, I know Dudley Hanover. Of course, we will be happy to introduce them. What a wonderful match. I wish I'd thought of that a long time ago. Oscar and I will be going to Greensboro in the morning. Ask Dudley if he is free for lunch. If he is, we will be sure to have Evelyn at the Green Hill Inn at 12:30. I can hardly wait. Isn't love just the grandest.

The Christmas Baskets

The Christmas Baskets

It was a cold day in December just two weeks before Christmas. All the people of Camden Corners opened their front doors to find beautiful wreaths made of holly leaves and pine branches and decorated with pine cones and holly berries.

Thinking their neighbors must have left them by the door, they visited each other but the neighbor also had a wreath mysteriously appear on their own porches.

The next day, baskets were left by the doors with jars of various berry jams and jellies decorated with pretty ribbons.

Every day of the week a new gift basket would appear. One day it was candy, another day little cakes and cookies. Toys the following day. The baskets were left sometime during the night. No one ever saw who was leaving the baskets which made them think something magical was happening in the village of Camden Corners.

The children were excited, it was the last week of school before the Christmas holiday. Miss Kate and the other teachers were just as excited as the children were and the mysterious Christmas baskets added to the excitement.

The children thought it must be Santa's elves delivering the treats. They imagined they were tiny enough to slip in and out of town without being seen. Some of the adults began to believe the children might be right.

Jed Finnegan had been sitting by his fire the day of the blizzard. He rarely had company and that was just fine with him. If you didn't bother anyone they wouldn't bother you either. He was deep in thought remembering his sweetheart, Clovis Moon. She was the prettiest girl on the mountain. He had been smitten with her for as long as he could remember. Jed was just a young man, barely 18 when he and Clovis were married. Jed's paw had a fondness for moonshine. He'd go off for days into the woods and come home when he ran out of his corn whiskey. It never occurred to Jed that his paw's behavior was anything but normal. Clovis had other ideas and when Jed ran off to imbibe in the spirits, she chased him down and occasionally bop him on the head with her frying pan.

Jed became a laughing stock after these attacks. One day he decided he'd had enough of Clovis and being the brunt of jokes. He traveled down the hill on his mule to live a life where nobody would laugh at him again.

Cody and the children interrupted his reverie. They came into the cabin and the children were frightened of him. By the time they left that day, the children all gave him a hug. He couldn't remember when he'd had such a nice day. He bundled himself up against the cold, packed a few dried fruits in his backpack, climbed on his old mule and started up the mountain to see what Clovis had been up to these last 40 years or so.

It took Jed 3 days to make it to the top of the mountain. Clovis opened the door to the old shack they lived in together so many years ago.

“Jed, you've come home.” was all Clovis said.

“Hello Clovis. I've come to take you to my home down the mountain.”

Without batting an eye, Clovis packed her few belongings, closed the door of the shack, climbed on her own mule and rode down the mountain with Jed.

Jed told her about the children. Clovis always dreamed of having children of her own but after Jed left, she knew that dream would never come true.

“Why don't we do something for the children? With all of these beautiful greens you have around the cabin, we could make wreaths. I never had much to do with your being away all those years, I learned to make things with my hands.”

She showed him how to shape a wreath and tie it with twine. She found some ribbon and made a bow for the top of it. The two of them had such fun making the wreath they continued on until they had so many they knew they would have too many for just a few houses.

“Let's just start delivering them and continue until we run out,” said Jed.

They piled the wreaths on their mules and headed to town. It was after 2:00 in the morning. They left the wreaths at the front door of each and every house.

“Clovis, I don't think anyone saw us. Won't they be surprised when they wake up in the morning and find the wreath at their doors. I wish I could see their faces.”

“Jed, are you aware of all the reed and canes you have piled in your shed out back? I don't know what you were planning to use it for but it would make fine baskets. We could fill them with some of those jams and jellies you have in your cellar.”

“I like that idea, Clovis. Last summer was a good year for berries and I must admit I was a little carried away with the preserves. Let's get started on that right after breakfast.”

The two of them worked all day weaving baskets and filling them with jars of jams and jellies. That night they delivered those to the houses in town.

Jed, being alone for so many years whittled games of dominoes and checkers. He'd painted them and put them away on a shelf. Clovis discovered those and they placed those on the doorsteps the following night.

Jed remembered the children telling about the Christmas pageant at the church on Christmas Eve. Clovis thought that would be a fine way to celebrate Christmas. She and Jed visited the general store where Clovis purchased materials and thread. She made Jed a shirt and tie and fashioned a suit from pictures she saw in the Sears and Roebuck catalog.

While Clovis was busy working on their clothes, Jed got out his extra sharp knife and cut off his whiskers. He'd picked up a razor blade at the store without Clovis seeing. With the exception of a few nicks, he was clean shaven for the the first time since he first notice peach fuzz on his chin.

Clovis looked up from her sewing machine and almost sewed her sleeves together.

“Jed, is that you? What happened to your whiskers? You look like the boy I loved many years ago.”

“I hope you still love me Clovis because I never stopped loving you.”

“Of course I do Jed. Why else would I have waited for you all these years. I knew you would come back for me because I knew you loved me too.”

Jed knew he couldn't expect a lady to travel down a bumpy old road in her pretty new Christmas outfit. He purchased a carriage the morning of the pageant.

Jed and Clovis proudly rode into town and directly to St. Peter's Church.

“Mr. Finnegan's here,” shouted Timmy “And he doesn't have his whiskers.”

“How did you know it was me, Timmy?”

“I could tell by your eyes. You have very happy eyes, Mr. Finnegan.”

“I'd like you to meet my wife, Mrs. Finnegan.”

Everyone came up to the couple to welcome them to Camden Corners and wish them a Merry Christmas.

Cody wondered if all of the Christmas baskets that appeared might be the work of Mr. & Mrs. Finnegan. He recognized the jelly jars from one of his visits to the old gentleman's cabin. He wasn't going to breathe a word. He was happy to see Clovis again. She looked like a much younger woman than he remembered. He'd never seen Jed look so snappy as he did in his new suit.

The pageant went off without a hitch. Baby Jesus behaved himself and didn't cry. Cassandra was very proud of her little brother.

After the service, the parishioners gathered in the basement of the church to sing Christmas carols and enjoy all the treats provided by the ladies auxiliary. Oscar read the poem A Visit From St. Nicholas. It was the first time Clovis had ever heard it. She could read a little but not having any books or written words in the mountains, it wasn't easy for her. Nettie told her she would help her with her reading for which Clovis was very grateful.

That night after the town was asleep, someone placed a plate of breakfast cakes by everyone's front door with a note saying Merry Christmas.

Clovis opened the door to the cabin and was surprised to see a plate of cakes right there on the porch. “Jed, how in the world did you bake these cakes without my knowing? They are beautifully decorated. I just can't help myself, I must take a bite.”

Clovis bit into the cake.

“Jed, how did you make these cakes so light and fluffy? They are as soft as an angel's wings. I must know your secret.”

“I have no secret dear. I didn't make the cakes.” Jed looked at her and looked around the area. He couldn't see a soul and didn't find any footprints in the fresh snow that had fallen overnight.

Clovis was surprised when her new friends told her a few days later that plates of the most heavenly cakes had been left at their doorsteps to be enjoyed on Christmas morning. She wondered who could possibly left them there. She thought about it for a few minutes and then decided maybe she would simply believe angels had been responsible.

The Christmas season had come and gone. The children were back in school. It was quiet in the little cabin in the forest. Clovis and Jed were practicing their reading. Helene Merryweather had supplied them with enough library books to keep them busy for a while.

There was a knock on the door. “Cody, come in my boy.”

“Jed, we don't want to disturb you. I was giving the children another ride on the sleigh and they so wanted to stop here and say hello to you and Miss Clovis.”

“You aren't disturbing us in the least. Please, welcome all of you. We are so happy you came to visit us.”

“Mr. Finnegan, we were hoping you would tell us more stories of the bears and mountain lions.”

Clovis laughed, “What bears and mountain lions, Jed?”

“Mr. Finnegan fought off bears and mountain lions when he was just a boy no bigger than a tadpole. That's what he told us,” said Butch.

“I'd love to hear those stories too, Jed. Let me fix some hot chocolate for our guests and you can begin your tales.”

They all sat around the fire while Jed told his stories. The younger children listened intently and imagined themselves on the mountain top where Jed and Clovis grew up. The older children knew Jed was telling tall tales but they enjoyed them just the same.

The years went by. Jed and Clovis never moved out of the little cabin in the forest. Children still came knocking on their door waiting to hear Jed's latest tale. They continued the tradition of delivering Christmas baskets to all the homes in Camden Corners until they were too old to make the trek down the snow packed dirt road to the town. Their baskets didn't appear anymore but a plate of angel soft breakfast cakes was always left at each door on Christmas Eve.

Some folks thought it was the work of Diana Taylor, the owner of the bakery. Others suspected it was Alma Tanner who was known for her baked goods. Still others suspected heavenly angels were creating the treats. Diana and Alma both denied it was them. They admitted, try as they might, they could never find the recipe to make breakfast cakes taste so light. They agreed that the cakes must have come from above. Even if that seemed impossible, Christmas Eve was the time for miracles and the townsfolk liked to think their miracle was delivered right to their front door.