Camden Corners: The Merryweather--Coming Sunday

 

The village of Camden Corners is rich in history as revealed in the pages of the journals kept by the women of the small town in the early 1900s. The journals are discovered in the attic of the old Merryweather mansion when two of the young residents take it upon themselves to turn the building into a fine resort. Through the years, Tracy Robinson and Holly Mackenzie meet visitors and build solid friendships with all the residents and newcomers to Camden Corners. Reaching the age of retirement, the women receive an offer for the property that they find difficult to refuse. They must decide whether the Merryweather, an institution in Camden Corners, will be sold or whether the 200 year old building will be saved for future generations. Join Tracy and Holly as they reflect on the history and lives of the people of Camden Corners.

The Merryweather is a landmark in the small town of Camden Corners. Its walls hold many secrets of the lives and loves of residents and newcomers alike.

COMING SOON - CAMDEN CORNERS: THE MERRYWEATHER

Stories of the Present While Remembering the past

Girl

GIRL

Joe and Diana Taylor had been married almost 5 years. They had not been blessed with children and were beginning to wonder if they would ever have the big family they both wanted. Joe was a fireman and Diana owned Warm Hearth Bakery in the village of Camden Corners They had known each other since they started kindergarten together at Camden Grammar School. Doc McMillan told them there was no need to worry that they would most definitely have their family one day. In the meantime, they had full and busy lives. Diana loved when the school children walked home each afternoon and set out a plate of cookies for them. Each child looked forward to passing by the bakery and choosing a delicious treat from the plate.

In the hills far above Camden Corners lived Earl Short and his daughter Iris. Iris had just turned 5 years old but nobody remembered the date of her birth.

Her mother Mavis was a bright young girl who found a package filled with books. They had accidentally dropped from a traveling salesman's wagon as he was making his way across the bumpy road near the shack she called home. Mavis hid the books and every chance she got she would pour over them until she taught herself to read. She lived in the world of Little Women and Jane Eyre and read them over and over again.

When Mavis turned 14, Maw told her it was time to marry and Earl Short had chosen her to be his wife and bear his children. Mavis knew she didn't have a choice and accepted her fate.

Mavis was calm during a very difficult labor and finally delivered a beautiful little girl she named Iris. Maw placed the baby in her arms and Mavis whispered a prayer that her daughter would be safe and grow up surrounded by love.

Earl arrived from tending his still just in time to see his wife close her eyes for the last time. He was furious that she hadn't given him a son and walked out of the shack without a backward glance at his daughter.

Maw did the best she could with the girl. Iris' name was never spoken. She was only referred to as “Girl”. Paw rarely spoke to her at all and when he did he was issuing an order. Girl had taken after her mother in so many ways. She looked just like her and always was able to see the good in everyone and everything.

One day Maw started feeling poorly. She had always known about the books that Mavis kept hidden and showed Girl the hiding place. She wanted so much more for her granddaughter than she or her daughter had in life. Maw prayed Girl would find her way out of this place and discover whatever world there is beyond the hills. Maw passed away in her sleep several days later.

Earl was smoking his stogie next to his still one late autumn afternoon when a spark hit the still and it exploded and burned to the ground. He decided this was a sign to pack up his few belongings and leave the hills for the first time in his life. He'd heard talk of gold in the west and decided that was what he would do.

He would have to take Girl with him but she was getting old enough that she could start earning her keep. Early in the morning the pair started down the long road headed west. Girl was uncomfortable sitting in the back of the buckboard but she didn't complain.

After several hours they came upon the village of Camden Corners. Girl was enchanted. She had never seen anything like this before. Everything was so bright and clean unlike the drab and dusty cabin. The people were all talking and smiling at one another and looked so fancy. She looked down at her grimy little hands and hid them in her pockets. Paw got out of the buckboard and walked into a building called a P-U-B. Iris didn't know what a pub was but she knew better than to follow Paw. She looked across the street and saw a big white dog with black spots laying in the sun. She waited for Paw to return to the buckboard but he was gone an awfully long time. She couldn't help herself she just had to get out and pet the spotted dog. Iris sat down beside the puppy, she felt so warm to Iris's cold little body she cuddled up to her and fell asleep.

Paw didn't notice that Girl wasn't in the buckboard when he drove off down the street and out of town.

Two hours later, Sheriff Mendenhall came upon Paw's buckboard which had flipped over on a curve throwing Paw out and killing him on impact.

Girl woke up and saw that Paw and the buckboard were gone. She gave the loveable puppy a hug and started walking down the street.

She walked by Warm Hearth Bakery and there was a plate of the most wonderful looking treats on a plate. She knew she shouldn't steal but she was so hungry and those round things looked so good and smelled so wonderful. She took one off the plate and gingerly walked away.

She walked a little further down the street and came upon Nichol's General Store. Outside of the market she saw apples. There was an apple tree behind her home but they didn't smell as good as these. She helped herself to an apple.

She didn't feel so hungry anymore and wanted to visit with her new spotted friend again so she walked back to the big red building. The dalmatian saw her coming and came up to her licking her hand. Iris followed the dog into the building and saw she had her own pallet and was offering to share with her.

They sat together for a little while when someone called “Come here Girl”.

Both the dog and Girl went running.

“Well, who have we here?” said Joe.

“My name is Girl, my Paw is taking us to find gold”

Joe asked where her Paw was and Girl told him she came over to say hello to the dog and Paw wasn't there anymore. Joe was just getting off duty at the fire station and was meeting Diana at the bakery.

He took hold of Girl's hand and walked the short distance to the bakery. Diana was just coming out of the store to pick up the empty plate the children had their snacks on. Girl's eyes were wide as she saw the empty plate.

“I didn't take all of them” she said. “I only took one and I'm sorry I stole it.” Her little chin was quivering and Diana and Joe fell in love with this angel who called herself Girl.

Diana closed the shop and insisted they take the child home, clean her up and feed her a good meal before they visited the sheriff.

Under all the grime and dirt was a beautiful little face with curly auburn hair. She was way too thin but Diana knew she would be able change that in no time. Diana had some clothes she kept for the times her nieces visited and was able to find a pretty dress that fit the little girl perfectly.

Girl looked in the mirror and smiled. She thought she looked fancy like the people she saw on the streets of Camden Corners.

Girl had never had a meal as wonderful as the one Diana prepared that evening. Her tummy felt happy and so did her heart. She didn't want to think about riding in the buckboard again so she just didn't think about it.

Joe suggested it might be best if he went to talk to the sheriff alone while Diana stayed at home with Girl

“Diana,” Joe whispered on his way out the door, “We can't just call her Girl, the child must have a name.”

An hour later, Joe came home with Sheriff Mendenhall who was carrying a package of books he had found on the buckboard. Girl was excited to see her books and looked around gingerly for Paw since he didn't know she had them. They told Girl what had happened to her Paw.

She didn't cry, she didn't feel sad like she did when her grandmother didn't wake up. She climb up on Diana's lap and asked her if she could look at her books.

Sheriff Mendenhall was usually a pretty tough fellow but he could feel his eyes begin to sting. He thought it would be a great thing if the child could stay with the Taylor's for the night.

Tomorrow they would investigate to see if there were any next of kin. He hoped there weren't. Diana opened the first book. A well worn piece of paper slipped out of the book.

In a very weak handwriting it said “I love you my Iris.” From that moment on, Iris had a name and she knew that her mother's spirit lived on in her. The next morning Diana felt a little queasy but she thought it was the excitement of the day before. It didn't take long before the courts determined Iris was without blood relatives and the adoption of Iris Taylor took place.

By the time the family of three was official, they were well on their way to becoming a family of four and Iris was about to become a big sister.

Key to the Future

Key To The Future

After discovering two locked boxes, Nettie and Ethel looked for a key in the crate but there wasn't one there. They asked Jonas to take a look at the lock to see if he could open it. He did try but was afraid he would scratch or mar the boxes if he tried to force them open. Emma was nearby and wondered what they were doing. She wandered over and recognized one of the boxes. It held her grandmother's wedding dress.

When Emma was a little girl her Grandma Flora had promised she could wear the gown when she grew up and married. Emma felt tears welling in her eyes as she remembered the happy times she spent with Grandma Flora. Her parents had perished in a train accident when she was just a baby. Flora and Amos Patterson were the only parents she had ever known.

She wiped her eyes and suddenly remembered the key that she and the vicar found in the old cash register. She had put it in the drawer of the cash register and hurried to get it out. Jonas gingerly opened the first box. There was Grandma's wedding gown. Just as beautiful as she remembered it. Grandma had carefully folded it and wrapped it and it looked as lovely as it must have the day that Grandma wore it as she walked down the aisle. All the women were tearful at the sight of that dress. Emma thought of her dear Grandmother, Nettie thought of the love she had lost and Ethel remembered the day she became Mrs. Jonas Fulbright. Jonas cleared his throat and had to dab a bit at his eyes too. All in their own reverie, they suddenly remembered the other box. Again, being very careful, Jonas opened the second box. Inside was a stack of papers.

They began to look through the papers and discovered Amos had signed over all of his assets and worldly possessions to his wife Flora on their 50^th wedding anniversary with a note saying, “All I am and all I have are because I was a smart enough fellow to marry the most wonderful woman God put on this earth.”

Flora's Last Will and Testament was also in the box. She had bequeathed the general store and all her possessions to Emma.

Jonas called Oscar Crowley immediately. Oscar, never missing an opportunity, thought it best if Robert pay a visit to the antique shop with him. Oscar could detect a sparkle in his son's eye as he was introduced to Emma. The Crowley father and son read through the papers and both concluded that Patterson's General Store and building were not Amos' to sell when he was duped into signing the deed over to Harvey Wilson.

Both men immediately traveled to Greensboro to confront their learned colleague, Mr. Caspar Dewitt. As was expected, Harvey Wilson was furious, ranting and raving and threatening to take the matter to the Supreme Court.

Caspar found his courage and told the old goat to pipe down, face up to the situation and remove himself and his checkerboard from the premises. From that moment on, Caspar was a new man. His law practice began to flourish, he found himself representing the farmers and townspeople that Harvey had been swindling for years.

Harvey was a man without a friend. Even his old checkers pals were backing away. One morning he arrived at his newspaper office only to find four practically new, very expensive fishing poles resting at the front door.

Back in Camden Corners, Emma chose not to pursue any legal action against Harvey. She wanted the matter to be over and done with. Nothing could erase the wonderful memories she had of the General Store and she knew her grandfather would approve when she sold the store to Silas Warren at a very reasonable price.

Seth Greenfield was Silas' trusted assistant in his grocery store in Kendall and traveled six days a week back and forth from Greensboro to Kendall. He asked Seth how he would like to be the manager of the old Patterson's Grocery Store and building. Seth was overjoyed. He and Amy Marsh were planning a wedding in the spring. They would be able to live in the flat above the store and rent out the rest of the apartments. Silas planned to deduct a small amount of money from Seth's pay each week until he had enough to make a down payment on the property. Seth had become like a son to Silas and he would do his best to help the young couple along. Emma knew of the plan and wholeheartedly agreed with it. Her heart was filled with happiness to know the walls of old Patterson's would be filled with love and laughter once again.

Lily and Richard had become inseparable. Helping Lily, Richard had even taken to sanding and staining the many finds that were to be sold in the antique shop. Lily, wanting to be close to Richard, helped search for precedents in the Crowley firm library. They were like two peas in a pod and ever since their first unfortunate encounter, there had never been an unkind word between them.

Emma was happy for her friend. Lily and Richard both thought Emma and Robert would be perfect together. Emma and Robert had become friends. Emma had been through so many changes in such a short time and Robert who had only passed the bar the previous June felt he needed to concentrate on his career. They would meet occasionally at O'Sullivan's Pub for lunch or dinner but simply as friends.

Emma learned of an auction that was being held in Kendall. Nettie had developed a fever and bad cough and Doc McMillan thought it best she stay in bed for a few days. Nettie argued that she was healthy as a horse and the girls needed her to watch the store while they went to the auction. Everyone agreed that Nettie was to follow doctor's orders.

Robert's schedule was rather light that week and Oscar offered to help with the cases that needed attention while Robert accompanied Emma to Kendall for the sale. They planned to leave at 8:00 sharp and be home with a wagon full of treasures before nightfall. Ethel packed thermoses of coffee, enough sandwiches to feed a troop of hungry scouts and bags full of cookies and candies. She made sure there were plenty of blankets to keep them warm. The sky looked a little menacing but the duo took off as planned. Jonas and Ethel stood arm in arm watching them travel down the road toward Kendall. Both were trying to hide their worry from the other.

Emma had the winning bids on almost every item she had chosen. Robert helped her load and cover the wagon securely. He found he was having a wonderful adventure and was impressed with Emma's know how and her professionalism.

They were laughing and joking with each other when snow started falling lightly and then heavier and heavier. Within the hour, the horses were having a difficult time making their way through the snow that was piling up. The wind started to howl. Robert had been in snowstorms like this before and knew it was going to be questionable whether they would be able to make it back to Camden Corners today.

They could see a small cabin less than a mile west of where they were and thought it might be best if they headed for the cabin instead of following the road home. The cabin was abandoned and so was the barn next to it. The door to the barn was not locked and they guided the horses inside and patted them down as best they could with the blankets Ethel had insisted they take with them. There was enough room in the barn for the wagon so all of the purchases would be safe for the time being.

After the horses were settled, Robert and Emma made their way to the cabin. The door was locked but it didn't take Robert long to jimmy the lock. The cabin was cold but there was a fireplace and plenty of firewood. Robert started a fire and moved the big, over sized sofa in front of the fireplace. Before long, the cabin was warming up and the adventurers were famished.

“Bless Ethel for packing all these sandwiches.” said Emma.

The wind was howling outside as Robert and Emma looked into the fire each with their own thoughts. Emma was feeling warm and it wasn't simply because of the blazing fire. Robert could smell a hint of lavender from Emma's golden hair as he was fighting the urge to take her in his arms. They looked at each other and as the flames from the fire shimmered on their faces, Robert lowered his lips to hers and the magic had begun.

They realized now what everyone in town already knew. Robert and Emma were in love. They agreed the timing wasn't right for either one of them but they knew they could never go back to being just friends.

The women folk in Camden Corners were beginning to worry. The snow was piling up and no sign of Robert and Emma. Oscar and Richard knew Robert would be able to handle any crisis. He had grown up in Camden Corners and heavy snow could often be the norm in this area. Because the ladies were concerned, the men decided to go out looking for the couple. The snow had let up somewhat when Oscar and Richard started their search. They were only a few miles out of town when they noticed smoke coming from a chimney at the old Whitehead cabin. They rode up to the cabin and heard the horses whinny in the barn. Oscar peeked through the window before knocking on the door and was delighted to see his son and Emma sitting together enjoying a nice warm fire and each other.

Emma and Robert were startled but happy to see their rescuers. Robert was surprised to learn they were so close to Camden Corners but not sorry they had found shelter at the old cabin.

The homecoming was a happy one. The couple was safe and their friends and family guessed they had finally admitted their true feelings for each other. Emma and Lily knew they had made the right decision to move to Camden Corners so many months ago.

Open For Business

Finally, Looking Back Antiques opened for business under new management. Everyone in town was happy to see the shop taken over by Emma and Lily and couldn’t wait to sit down with a cup of tea and enjoy the freshly baked brownies and delicious confections. The Antique store was a huge success. Word started spreading quickly and before long folks from the neighboring towns and eventually from nearby cities started frequenting the antique shop. The Fulbright farm was finally sold and Jonas and Ethel moved to Camden Corners. Jonas was happy to be on hand in the antique shop to greet customers and point out the beauty of each item in the store. Nobody realized how much old Amos had stored. There seemed to be a never ending supply of goods for Jonas to work on. Ethel loved being near her daughter and grandchildren. She was making friends quickly and enjoyed acting as hostess occasionally in the tea room. She wrote to Nettie Dawson excitedly telling her all about the shop and tea room. Nettie missed her dear friend and in a blink of an eye, she was on the train on her way to Camden Corners arriving just in time for tea. Nettie was a perfect match for the now bustling tea room. She was full of chatter and advice to all the patrons.

Emma, Lily and Jonas were working feverishly preparing the last of Amos’ collection before the busy Christmas season began. They discovered there were very few pieces that couldn’t be repaired or cleaned and sold as a valuable antique. Nettie and Ethel were delighted to find a huge crate filled with Tiffany lamps. They spent hours cleaning and shining each and every lamp while they talked about all of the Christmas celebrations they were looking forward to. Their first Christmas in Camden Corners was going to be a very happy one.

One afternoon, the Vicar Willard Duesenberry came into the shop to purchase a lace tea cozy for his faithful housekeeper, Mrs. Schrum. He saw her admiring it in the window one day last week and thought it would make a nice Christmas gift for her. Emma was having a difficult time opening Amos’ old cash register and the vicar offered to take a look at it to see what the problem was. He discovered there was a tiny key that was lodged in the drawer. Emma couldn’t understand why she didn’t discover it when she so painstakingly cleaned and polished it. She took the key and set it aside wondering what the key fit and what it was doing inside the cash register. Another customer was inquiring about a Queen Anne sofa and Emma forgot about the key.

Harvey Wilson was sitting at his usual spot in the old general store cheating at checkers with his cronies. They knew he was cheating but also knew that if they called attention to it old Harvey would throw his considerable weight around and make trouble for his chums. The general store just wasn’t the same now that Amos has passed on and it had been taken over by Harvey. The townspeople of Greensboro often traveled the distance to nearby Kendall to purchase their groceries and supplies at Silas Warren’s store. Harvey did like to make a profit and didn’t notice that he was losing customers one by one. George Whitfield had just returned from Camden Corners and was telling the group how busy the antique store was that Emma Patterson and Lily Kramer bought and how well they were doing selling Amos’ things. Harvey’s ears perked up.

“Excuse me gentlemen I have a little matter of thievery to check into. I do believe the junk Miss Emma stole out of this building was mine and I have the documents to prove it.”

The small group was dumbfounded. This was low even for Harvey.

Emma and Lily were beginning to make a small profit in their antique business and finally had enough extra to bankroll them for their first scavenger hunt. They were anxious to start their journey before the heavy snows came. They took off leaving the shop in the capable hands of Jonas and the women. Susanna offered to pop in occasionally to check on things for them. The first time out they hit the jackpot. The hotel in Porterboro was going to be completely renovated and they were able to salvage almost a wagon full of treasures from there. They stopped at a farmhouse on the way to the next town and found many more items. With a few stops on their way back to Camden Corners they had filled their wagon to the brim and were giggling and laughing as they opened the door to their antique shop.

They were met with tearful eyes and worried faces and standing right smack in the middle of their store was Mr. Harvey Wilson with his smarmy lawyer, Caspar Dewitt standing next to him. Both were smirking as Caspar served the girls with a cease and desist letter demanding they lock the doors of the shop pending a lawsuit for ill gotten goods. Lily was fit to be tied and ready to flatten Mr. Caspar Dewitt but Emma’s cooler head prevailed. She knew they would not be able to fight this fight in the middle of their store and accepted the papers asking them to leave and locking the door behind them.

“We need a lawyer and we need one quickly” Emma said.

Susanna, who happened to be in the shop when Harvey and Caspar walked in had already thought of that and had called Crowley law firm.

Mr. Oscar Crowley was a widower who owned the firm along with his very handsome sons, Robert and Richard. The elder Mr. Crowley was retired but lonely living in a big house by himself. He would find himself at loose ends and wander into the law office just to help out his boys. His office was always open to him and the boys enjoyed having their father around to help out with some of their more difficult clients. Oscar had a way about him that always calmed down the most frazzled and frustrated good folks of Camden Corners.

Susanna explained the situation to Mary, the firm’s receptionist. Mary told Susanna to come right over and bring everyone with her. Mr. Oscar was in his office and would see them right away. Mary knew this was the sort of case Mr. Oscar would enjoy taking on. She knew from experience that Mr. Harvey Wilson didn’t stand a chance against any one of the Crowley men.

The worried group walked into the law firm and Oscar stepped out of his office to greet them and introduce himself to everyone. Pausing for a moment when he looked into the tearful eyes of Miss Nettie Dawson. He invited them into his office as Mary was bringing in some extra chairs. Oscar knew they were upset and in his usual fashion was able to calm everyone’s fears. He had dealt with Caspar Dewitt on a few occasions and knew him to be less than honest in his dealings and his choice of clientele. Oscar looked over the cease and desist letter and told them to feel free to open their doors again. He knew Caspar was using a scare tactic not necessarily a legal one.

Emma explained the situation and the threat made by Mr. Wilson that the contents of Amos' store would be destroyed at her expense if it was not removed. Emma was chastising herself for not getting a copy of the so called deed Mr. Wilson had shown her. Because of grief over losing her beloved grandfather and the shock of Mr. Wilson taking over the store, she wasn't thinking clearly.

Mr. Crowley was understanding of Emma's predicament and seething over the way she had been taken advantage of. He knew old Amos and knew what an honorable man he was. He assured her he would be securing a copy of the deed from the county court house and would get to the bottom of the matter. Emma and Lily were not in a financial position to pay for the services of an attorney. Their little shop was just beginning to turn a profit and they had spent that profit on their new purchases. Nettie spoke up saying she had a little money of her own and it would be her pleasure to pay the legal expenses to keep that snake, Harvey Wilson, out of their lives. Mr. Crowley had Mary draw up a retainer agreement with the amount of one half dollar as the retainer fee. He smiled at Miss Nettie and she blushed like a school girl finding herself wondering if there was a Mrs. Oscar Crowley in the picture.

It was too late in the afternoon for Oscar to make it to the county seat to check the deed to Amos' land but he thought he would check on precedents in one of his old heavy law books. Taking the book off the shelf, he happened to remember that he hadn't had a cup of tea this afternoon and wouldn't that hit the spot right about now? Lugging his oversized law book with him he donned his overcoat and top hat and walked around the corner to visit the Looking Back Antique Shop and the lovely Miss Nettie Dawson.

Nettie saw Oscar walk through the door and her heart skipped a beat. Oscar lost his beloved wife several years before and had not so much as glanced at another woman in all that time. There was something about Miss Nettie that the old gentleman found endearing. He felt like a schoolboy himself as he ordered a cup of tea with just a sliver of banana cake. He invited Miss Nettie to join him at the table.

He asked her what had brought her to Camden Corners and she explained that she had been a schoolmarm until she retired last year. She missed the children and having her very dear friend, Ethel move away was all she needed to make a change in her life. As a young girl she had loved Randolph Evans but three days before their wedding, he had been killed in a fire after heroically saving the lives of three small children and their mother. Her life had been full with so many students through the years. All of the children had loved Miss Nettie and she loved them as if they were her own. She'd had several suitors but none of them had measured up to Randolph. Until now, that is.

Oscar talked about his wife, Louise and what a happy life they had together. They had two active sons who followed in their father's footsteps and studied law. Robert and Richard were both unmarried and Oscar thought it was about time they settled down. Emma and Lily came to mind. What a pair of fine young ladies. Although he didn't need it, he may ask for both his son's assistance in girls' legal matter.

Nettie and Oscar sat and talked for well over an hour. Neither was aware of the time until the sun started to set. Oscar wondered if Miss Nettie would be willing to join him for dinner at the Marino Trattoria. She, of course was delighted and happily accepted the invitation. They had a lovely dinner and Rosa, who could spot a romance blossoming, made sure they didn't lack for wine or delicious food. She asked her her husband Eduardo to take a break from his kitchen duties to play a tune on his violin for the couple. Eduardo was a very romantic fellow himself and enjoyed watching the couple as they gazed into each others eyes.

The following morning, the whole town of Camden Corners was abuzz with talk of the December romance between Oscar and Nettie.

Oscar visited the courthouse and secured a copy of the deed Harvey's lawyer had filed. It was poorly written and it wouldn't be terribly difficult to disprove it's authenticity but it would take time to straighten the matter out and Oscar was hoping to spare the girls that frustration. They had worked so hard and sacrificed so much to make a success of their shop. He would just have to get Robert and Richard involved. They both happened to be in the office when Oscar returned from the county courthouse. He spoke with them together explaining the situation. Richard left the office chuckling.

“That sly old fox, he obviously has something other than our legal expertise in mind for the Misses Patterson and Kramer.”

“And I'm sure you will set the young ladies straight” replied his brother.

Robert was due in court shortly but Richard had some free time and decided to pay a visit to The Looking Back Antique Shop. He was still amused at his father's obvious ploy as he entered the shop. Emma was busy clearing off a shelf at the back of the store. He spotted Jonas and laughingly told him he was here to check out the merchandise to see if they measured up to his usual standards. His father was pushing him and Robert to find wenches and start producing grandchildren. Suddenly a beautiful red haired girl popped her head up over the counter. She was scowling and her face was getting redder by the minute. Richard's face was as bright red as Lily's. He didn't know what made him say something so crass. He was about to apologize and beg forgiveness when a satin pillow came sailing through the air aimed directly for his head. Emma heard the commotion and came running to the front of the store. Lily was about to pick up a vase that was displayed on the counter when Emma caught her hand and rescued the vase and Richard's handsome face. Jonas was speechless. He had never heard a gentleman speak about a woman like that. At least not in her presence.

Nettie and Ethel had been visiting with Maddie and Diana at one of the tea room tables. They told them that the rude young man was Richard Crowley. He sometimes puts his foot in his mouth but he is really quite a nice and genteel fellow. They explained that his father, Oscar was intent on getting his boys married off and that must have prompted him to speak in such a way. Emma's always cool head prevailed. She was able to calm Lily down somewhat and asked Richard if she could help him. Richard explained who he was and that he meant no disrespect towards either of the girls. He had a long complicated morning and his father was acting like a father and it had rubbed him the wrong way but that was no reason for him to have spoken as he did. Lily was enjoying his discomfort and decided to play the shrew for just a little bit longer. She couldn't help but notice that Richard had the most beautiful blue eyes she had ever seen. His shoulders were so broad, his teeth were so white, his nose was a perfect shape and his raven hair was full and thick. She didn't think she had ever seen a more handsome man.

Emma escorted Richard into the small office partly because she knew he would be talking about their legal trouble and partly to keep Lily away from the poor fellow for his own safety. She knew Lily would calm down but thought it best to give her a little longer to compose herself. Emma told Richard all that had transpired. His father had filled him in but he listened intently to Emma tell her side of the story once again. Like his father, Richard asked if Amos had written a Will or had put anything in writing before he became so ill. To Emma's knowledge, he hadn't. She knew Elmer Mayhew was an attorney and a good friend of Amos' but he had passed away 3 years ago. He had been semi-retired and Emma didn't know what had happened to all his files. He had never married and she didn't believe he had any living relatives. She called Jonas into the office and he couldn't give Richard any more information than that.

Richard was about to leave when he saw the beautiful girl he had insulted standing by the counter. He walked over to her to apologize. She picked up the vase again and he began to duck. Lily couldn't help herself, she started giggling. She told Richard she had never been referred to as a wench before but thought it sounded rather endearing coming from Oscar Crowley's son but she wouldn't recommend he use that term in her presence again. Richard couldn't help but notice that Lily not only had a beautiful face her figure was lovely although he didn't dare lower his eyes for fear of what she may do.

He said his goodbyes and turned to leave the shop when he realized suddenly that he had fallen in love for the first time in his life with the feisty redhead behind the counter.

He turned on his heel and said “I don't suppose you would be willing to go to lunch with an ill mannered lout like me?”

Lily wrapped her cape around her shoulders picked up her handbag and met him at the door. “Ill mannered you might be sir but a lout? Never!”

Emma knew her dear friend would never be the same. Nettie and Ethel, relieved that their young friend was in good hands bid goodbye to Maddie and Diana and went to the store room to carry a small crate to the front of the store. They expected to open it to find more beautiful Tiffany lamps but instead it held two identical mahogany boxes. They lifted one then the other out of the crate. They were both locked.

Thanksgiving in Camden Corners

Thanksgiving in Camden Corners

Turkeys were roasting all over town in Camden Corners on Thanksgiving morning. The silver had all been polished and the good china was sparkling on dining room tables in most every house in the village.

The Clarke family from England was preparing for their first American Thanksgiving. Leah was wearing a pretty velveteen dress Cassie Nichols made just for her. Alfie was struggling to keep his bow tie in place. They were anxiously awaiting the arrival of Faith Burke and the two newest Crowley babies. Polly Burke would be coming early to help Trudy in the kitchen. Trudy had been Oscar Crowley's housekeeper and cook for as long as either of them could remember. She knew if she let him into her kitchen, he would sprinkling salt into every pot on top of the stove. Trudy was the only person who ever intimidated Oscar and he knew better than to enter her domain. Polly was the only other person allowed in the kitchen. She was an exceptionally good cook herself and she knew enough not to even pick up the salt shaker. Nettie didn't mind. She enjoyed cooking on Trudy's days off but she left Trudy alone to perform her magic on other days.

Oscar and Philip Clarke were setting up the tables for dining and rearranging as their wives changed their minds about the seating arrangements. Jonas and Ethel Fulbright, their daughter and her family plus the Crowley brothers and their families were expected also. Polly Cooper Burke's siblings had been taken in by Arthur and Gladys Preston. They lived in Greensboro and would be arriving within the hour. The Crowley house would be bursting at the seams before the day was out. Nettie liked it that way.

It was a squeeze, but everyone found a place at the table. Oscar said a prayer of Thanksgiving and managed to mention every name of every guest at the table. Nettie finally had to remind him the food was getting cold.

Trudy had outdone herself. She accepted the praise as she sat with the family for this special day.

Polly's sister Gretchen asked if her beau could join them for the day. She and Danny Mackenzie met at Polly and Randy's wedding and, although they lived in different towns, they were together as much as possible. Both Danny and Gretchen would be graduating from high school in the spring. Danny had assumed he and Gretchen would marry and she would move to Camden Corners. It never occurred to him that Gretchen had any other plans than to be his wife and the mother of his children.

Oscar asked, “What are your plans after graduation, Gretchen?”

“Thank you for asking Mr. Crowley. I have been thinking quite a bit about that lately. I have decided I would like to go to nursing school. I would like nothing better than to tend to mother and others like her who have lost their way. My school counselor has mentioned the possibility of a scholarship for me.”

Everyone around the table thought that was a wonderful idea. Everyone except Danny Mackenzie. “Gretchen, I thought we would be married this summer. This is the first I have heard you talk about being a nurse. Does that mean you won't be marrying me until you finish nursing school?”

“Danny, we are only 17 years old. We have plenty of time for marriage. I know we don't talk much about the future but I was certain you had planned to go to college too.”

There was an uncomfortable silence until Nettie changed the subject. “What do you think of our Thanksgiving celebration Philip?”

“You Americans know how to observe a holiday. I have never had such a feast before.”

“I hope you saved room for pie, Your Grace,” said Trudy.

“Please, I am in the United States now, please call me Philip. Minerva and I have been talking. The children are so happy here in Camden Corners. The Crowleys and all of the people in town have made us feel so welcomed, we are thinking of extending our visit. On my walk this morning I noticed a house for rent around the corner. If it's still available tomorrow, I plan to speak to the owner about renting it for a while.”

“I won't hear of it Philip. We have plenty of room in this house. You are more than welcome to stay here with us for as long as you would like.”

“Miss Nettie, we couldn't impose like that.”

“Nonsense, it wouldn't be imposing. You must know how much we love your children. They are comfortable in their room, why disrupt them again when there is no need?”

In the Jamison Bentley house the meal was being served at the same time. Cassandra Rossi and Becky Bentley kept the new babies occupied while their mother's helped put the finishing touches on the meal. The girls had worn out Freddie, Lucy and Daniel and all of them were sleeping soundly. Todd and Alex invited their girlfriends, Tessa and Susannah to join the family for dinner. Caroline and Jamison were happy the boys were thinking about settling down and couldn't have been happier with their choices.

“Has anyone heard from Mitchell Anderson?” said Caroline.

“Not from him Mrs. Bentley but Lydia sent a note to Hazel saying she and Mitchell were married. Lydia is working at a hospital in Chicago. She hinted that Mitchell was not working at all. I can't pretend that Lydia was one of my favorite people but she doesn't deserve to be a slave to a man,” said Susannah.

“Maybe we should include them in our Thanksgiving prayer today,” said Jamison who didn't like to think of anyone being unhappy on a holiday.

They all bowed their heads and gave thanks for their friends and loved ones and added a special blessing for Mitchell and Lydia Anderson.

Lydia Anderson was tending a patient. He was an older man who was losing a battle with an undiagnosed illness but it was suspected it may have been from years of drinking. Lydia looked on his chart and noticed that he was only 42 years old. Her heart sank as she thought to herself, “Is this what Mitchell will be like in just a few years? He is so handsome and charming. I love him but it is becoming more difficult every day.” Her thoughts were interrupted by the charge nurse.

“Lydia, we have another gentleman who was celebrating the holiday a wee bit too much. He walked into the path of a street car. They are bringing him in on a stretcher now. I'm afraid it's going to be a busy day for you although our friend here doesn't look like he will be causing you any problems.”

The orderly rolled the gurney into the room. Lydia was shocked when she looked down and saw Mitchell lying there. He was out like a light.

“Mitchell, what happened? Mitchell, speak to me. It's Lydia.” Mitchell slowly opened his eyes.

“Hello darlin'. Sorry, I'm so late coming home. You know I love you.”

“Mitchell Anderson. Stop it. You are not home, you are in the hospital. You walked in front of a moving street car. Do you want to kill yourself? Mitchell, I want a divorce. I can't live like this one minute longer. Do you see that man lying there next to you? That man likes the drink as much as you do and he is not that much older than you are right now. He is dying, Mitchell. He is dying from every drink he ever took. That is what you will be like in a very short time and I will not watch while it happens. Now, go to sleep while you wait for the doctor to examine you.”

Mitchell took one look at the body next to him. Lydia can't be serious. That man is old enough to be my grandfather. Mitchell never knew how it happened but suddenly his grandfather was sitting next to him.

“Mitchell! Whatever happened to that fine young boy I use to call my grandson? You are a mess. When did you start on this downward path?”

“Grandpa, it can't be you, you died when I was 10 years old.”

“You don't have to tell me that son. I remember it well. You cried your eyes out, I remember you begged me not to go but I had to. I didn't want to leave you, but I didn't have a choice.”

“Is it the drink that's gotten to me? I knew I was drinking too much last night. Or was it this morning? I don't remember.”

“Mitchell, if you don't stop drinking, you will end up like that fellow in the next bed. That is if you are lucky. You could go on for years. You heard Lydia, she is leaving you. I don't blame her. She has her faults alright, but she doesn't deserve to be married to the likes of you. I'm ashamed of you, son.”

“Don't say that Grandpa, I want you to be proud of me. I love you Grandpa. I'll stop drinking, I promise. Grandpa, don't go..”

Mitchell's injuries were minor. He woke up with a few aches and pains but was released later that afternoon. Lydia's shift ended and she took him home.

She didn't leave Mitchell that Thanksgiving Day. He seemed sincere about giving up the whiskey. She had heard empty promises from him before but decided to give him one more chance.

Mitchell kept his promise. From that day on he never took another drink. Anytime he had a craving for a drink his grandfather's face appeared before him. He told Lydia about his grandfather and they both wondered if somewhere, somehow, someone had brought the vision of his grandfather to him. He would always be thankful for whoever it was who helped turn his life around.

The Marino Trattoria was open this Thanksgiving day. Mamma Rossi thought the doctors and nurses who were working that day should be able to enjoy a fine turkey dinner along with the rest of the town. Not only was turkey served along with the usual side dishes, Mamma and Eduardo competed with each other for their specialties in Italian cuisine. No matter how hungry folks were when they entered the restaurant, they were all stuffed even more than the turkeys were that day. Grady and Elizabeth Murphy were enjoying their feast when Addie and Leo Schmidt stopped by to drop off some pies as their donation to the meal. They were happy to spend some time with the young couple.

“Grady and Elizabeth both work so hard,” said Addie

“Grady has been a hard worker since he was a boy. Unlike his father who always looked for the easy way out. I know I shouldn't be so critical on Thanksgiving Day but when I think of the danger Millie's cousin was in earlier this year because of that quack I want to wring his neck.” Leo said.

“Oh here they come. Happy Thanksgiving you two. Elizabeth, you look positively green. Are you feeling alright, dear?”

Elizabeth didn't wait to answer, she ran to the ladies room.

“Elizabeth can't seem to tolerate certain odors these days. She'll be fine in a few minutes.”

“Do you have an announcement to make Grady?” Addie's eyes lit up.

Grady smiled at this dear lady who was always like a mother to him. “How do you feel about being a grandmother this summer?'

“Oh Grady, we couldn't be happier. What a happy Thanksgiving you have made this. Poor Elizabeth. She isn't enjoying the day, is she?”

“You watch, once she splashes cold water on her face she will be out here and she'll be filling her plate.”

Elizabeth walked out of the washroom, took an empty plate and filled it to overflowing. “Did you guess our news, Addie?”

“Yes dear, and we think it's wonderful. Don't we, Leo.”

“I'm just wondering how soon I will be able to teach our grandson to drive a car.”

“Leo, what if it's a girl?”

Everyone was congratulating Elizabeth when Amanda Rossi had a pain. It didn't last too long but then another came and another. “Mamma Rossi, I don't think I'm going to be able to judge your contest with Eduardo today. Grady, take your time with your meal, I'll see you at the hospital.”

“First babies always take a while. I think I have time for a slice of that pumpkin pie Addie and then we'd better get back to the hospital. Another Rossi is about to come into the world.”

Just before midnight on that Thanksgiving Day, Anna Rosa Rossi was born. She was named after her paternal grandmother and aunt. Anna Rossi now had two babies to enjoy. She was thankful she and Lou decided to travel across the ocean to be with their family in Camden Corners.

Margaret and Harvey Wilson celebrated the holiday with their seven adopted children. They were joined by Neville and Helene, their daughters, Michael Cassidy and James and his sweetheart, Ella. Their newly adopted daughter, Marvella was learning to trust more and more each day. She had many friends in town and almost forgot how she and her little sister, Marissa had been bounced around from household to household after their mother's tragic death.

Marvella and Melissa had taken a liking to the Hawthorne boys. Lucas and Abe worked at the ski lodge every winter. Although there wasn't enough snow for downhill skiing, there was just enough for snowshoeing . A group of young people were gathering in the afternoon for a hike in the hills and later sitting around the campfire at the lodge.

Michael Cassidy was jumpy from the moment he arrived at the Wilson home. He only had one helping of the Thanksgiving feast.

“Michael, are you feeling alright? I've noticed you haven't been yourself since you walked through the door.” said Helene.

“I'm just fine Mrs. Merryweather. I have some things on my mind. That's all.”

“What do you have on your mind, Michael? Have I done something to annoy you?” Melinda said with fear in her eyes.

“No, its nothing like that Melinda.”

Melinda began to worry. When she thought about it, she realized Michael had been very distant the last few days. Her imagination began to get the better of her. She remembered she saw him talking with Peggy Ashcroft the other day. They were laughing as she handed him a small package. “Was it possible he had fallen in love with another?” Melinda's fears got the best of her. She began imagining Michael and Peggy together and was miserable. Melissa and Marvella began to worry about their sister. It was as though a dark cloud had come over the table where all the young people were sitting.

Neville stood up and asked Michael to come outside with him. He followed the older man to porch overlooking the lake.

“Michael, do you have something to ask me?”

“Yes, sir, I do.”

“Well, son, ask away, our food is getting cold.”

“Sir, I love your daughter and I.....”

“And you want my permission to marry her.”

“Yes, sir, I do.”

“You have it. Now I'm going to finish my meal. You wait here, I'll send Melinda out.”

Neville had lost patience with the whole situation. He was hungry and couldn't enjoy his meal while his daughter was suffering. Those two had been in love for two years now. He couldn't understand why Michael would be afraid to ask for Melinda's hand.

“Melinda, Michael would like to see you on the front porch.”

Melinda was shaking as she walked out the door. How was she going to face everyone after Michael dumped her for Peggy Ashcroft. She had forgotten that Peggy worked in the jewelry store. Her previous fears were forgotten as Michael slipped a ring on her finger. When they walked back into the house, they were both grinning from ear to ear.

“Michael and I are engaged. He has asked me to marry him and I said yes.” Nobody was the least bit surprised.

“That is lovely dear,” said Helene. “After dinner we will have to start planning the wedding. Michael, would you like more turkey?”

“Yes ma'am, I'm starving. He proceeded fill his plate for a second and third time.”

They were finishing the last of their pie at the Crowley house. Daniel was very quiet. Gretchen began helping clear the table and he followed her into the kitchen carrying a couple of plates himself. “Miss Trudy, I can help with the dishes, I've done it many times at the pub.”

“I won't hear of it son, now you and Gretchen go have a little talk. I think you young people have a thing or two to say to each other,” Trudy said with a knowing smile.

“Gretchen, I wanted to marry you this summer. I don't know if I can bear to wait another three or four years until you graduate from nursing school. I planned to start my own mechanic shop here in Camden Corners. People are beginning to buy automobiles and they will be needing repairs. I'm sure I will be able to make enough money to support you and you will not have to work.”

“Daniel, you don't understand. This is something I want to do. Besides, my mother never had a job or any money to call her own. Look how she ended up. I don't want to risk being like my mother.”

“Gretchen, I am nothing like your father and you know it.”

“I know Daniel. I wasn't implying that you were. This is something I want to do for my own sake. I know you will be able to support me and our children but I want to become a nurse so I can help people like my mother. I wish you would try to understand.”

“Gretchen, the only thing I understand is that you do not wish to marry me. Now, if you will excuse me, I'll thank the Crowleys for their hospitality and be on my way. I won't bother you again.”

“Daniel, if you walk away from me now, you may just keep walking.”

Daniel did just that.

Gretchen's heart was broken but she didn't back down. She graduated the following spring and began nursing courses at the college. She did just as she said she would. She graduated and began working in the home where her mother was residing. As much as everyone hoped, her mother never was able to return to normalcy. Gretchen was with her and held her hand as she passed away that fall.

Shane Howard Memorial Hospital was already expanding by then. Gretchen's sister Polly knew her sister had never stopped loving Daniel Mackenzie and Daniel never stopped loving her. They hadn't seen each other in nearly five years.

Polly who was now a teacher and mother of three, asked Gretchen to come to Camden Corners for a visit. Gretchen hadn't been to the town since that fateful Thanksgiving Day.

“Gretchen, it's foolish of you to stay away because you are afraid to see Daniel Mackenzie. You don't even have to see him. We will stay clear of his mechanic shop and the pub where he sometimes pitches in.”

“I'm not afraid to see Daniel. It was only a school girl crush. I'm sure he has been involved with many girls since those days. It's ancient history.”

“I've never seen him with anyone. He was always a good looking young man but you should see him now Gretchen. He is so very handsome. I know of a dozen girls who would love to snag him.”

Gretchen felt a tinge of jealousy hearing those words.

Gretchen agreed to a visit. She was taking a tour of the hospital after being offered a nursing position. She rounded a corner and bumped into Daniel Mackenzie.

“Hello Daniel. I hope no one in your family is ill.”

“No, not ill, my sister just had another baby. You know the Mackenzies, they like to keep adding to the family. How are you? You are looking well.”

“I'm fine. It's nice to see you again.” Gretchen turned away. It was painful to see Daniel again. She had never gotten over her feelings for him.

“Would you like to have a cup of coffee?”

Her first instinct was to say no. She didn't think she could sit across the table from Daniel and not show her true feelings. She found herself saying “Yes, that would be very nice.”

They sat down at a table in the hospital cafeteria.

“Gretchen, I acted like a fool five years ago. I don't know why I objected to you becoming a nurse. Polly told me about your mother. I'm sorry to hear that.”

“Thank you Daniel. My mother was a very unhappy person. I guess I was afraid of ending up like her and wanted to be sure I would never be dependent on someone as she was dependent on my father. I now know it was her mental illness that made her the way she was”

“Back then I never considered you would want anything but marriage to me. I think I was just anxious to start our lives together. You were right though. We were too young. Tell me, are you seeing anyone special?”

“No Daniel. I think I'm a one man woman.”

Daniel couldn't hide his feelings any longer. “Gretchen, I love you, I never stopped loving you. I will move to Greensboro if that is what you want. I want to marry you if you will have me and I hope you will.”

“I want to marry you too. I have wanted that since the first time we met. You don't have to move anywhere. I have accepted a job here in Camden Corners.

They were married within the week and celebrated every Thanksgiving together for the rest of their lives.”

Wedding Bells

Wedding Bells

The Warren children piled into Harvey's carriage along with Margaret Slater. The children won the hearts of the formerly gruff man who was making changes in his life daily. He didn't think it was possible to fall in love again, especially at his age, but he hadn't met Margaret. She was a breath of fresh air. The youngsters had taken to her immediately. She loved children and it showed.

Margaret's only son had moved with his wife and children to New York City shortly before she packed her bags for a visit with her friend, Helene. The visit had been life changing. She met Harvey Wilson on the train coming into town and nothing would ever be the same for her.

“I'll have to look into getting a bigger carriage, won't I? I don't think there will be enough room for all nine of us if these youngsters keep growing.”

“Our pa had a buckboard and we all fit on that real good,” Teddy said from the back seat. “It wasn't fancy like your carriage though. The seats were pretty hard.”

“This carriage feels good. I don't mind being squeezed. Do you Willa?” Callie piped in.

“Let's be grateful for what we have,” Willa told her brother and sister.

“I want you children to always say what's on your mind. We are a family now and everyone has a voice. I think it would be a wonderful idea to have a buckboard with padded seats.”

Lulu, the youngest spoke up, “I have something on my mind.”

“What is it Lulu?”

“I'm happy you will be our Grandpa when the judge says you can but I really wish you would marry Miss Margaret so she could be our Grandma.”

“What do you say children? Would you like Miss Margaret to be your Grandma?”

“Boy would we!” they all shouted at once.

“How could you turn down a proposal like that? Miss Margaret would you do me the honor of marrying me and becoming a grandma to these children?”

“Mr. Wilson, I would love being a grandma to these beautiful children and a wife to you.” She squeezed Harvey's hand.

He smiled broadly as the children climbed over one another to give Margaret a hug.

“Here is the new home of the Wilson family,” Harvey announced as they pulled up to the house being constructed.

“Well, what have we here?” said Reggie when he saw them all. “Harvey, I couldn't figure out why you wanted such a big house for just yourself but now I see the reason or should I say reasons.”

“Reggie, I'd like you to meet the soon to be Mrs. Wilson and the seven Wilson children. Margaret say hello to the finest builder in the county.” He introduced the children.

“Fellas take a break. We have some young people who want to see the inside of their new home. Go ahead take a look, there is still work to be done but we will be finished soon.”

“Harvey, it's going to be beautiful. I can just picture us sitting on the porch overlooking the water. What a wonderful idea you had to build a house on the lake.”

“Come look inside, I want you to make any changes you would like. I'm sure Jamison Bentley will be able to come up with some ideas if you are dissatisfied with anything.”

“Dissatisfied, it is a dream home. Look at the size of this kitchen. I hope you will let me use it occasionally, I know you will be hiring a cook but I have missed cooking. Not that I have done much of it since Ronnie left home.”

“My dear, you may do anything you wish.”

They could hear the children's laughter as they ran from room to room. Lulu appeared before them with a sheepish look on her face.

“Do you think Mama and Papa feel bad because we are having fun even though they aren't here with us?”

“I think your mama and papa looked down from heaven and saw Mr. Wilson and because he was all alone, they made sure you came into his life. They loved you very much and they always will. They are happy when their children are happy. Now go ahead and have fun Lulu, I know that is what your mama and papa want you to do.”

Lulu walked off to join the others with a happy smile on her face.

“You know just what to say to children, Margaret. I'm grateful you will be by my side to raise them. I hope my ego didn't get the best of me when I thought I could be a good father to these children. I only know I felt a need to protect and care for them. I love them and I love you. Do you think you will be happy here with us?”

“I know I will be. I had such a void when Ronnie and his family moved away. Now my heart is full again. That reminds me, I must send a telegram to him with our news.”

“How soon do you think you will be my wife? I know young ladies like to have time to plan their weddings.”

“Harvey, where do you see a young lady around here? I don't need any planning time. Just a minister and a groom are the only requirements.”

Harvey held her in his arms. He couldn't wait to make her his bride. He hoped her son would approve of the marriage.

The children had chosen their bedrooms and had already had a turn sliding down the banister. They let the workman get back to their jobs and were on their way back to Millie's for lunch. They made one stop to the post office to wire Ronnie about his mother's upcoming marriage.

It was a surprise to Margaret when later that afternoon, a telegram was delivered saying Ronald would be arriving on the 5:15 from New York City.

Margaret and Harvey met Ronnie's train. Margaret saw him step off the train and ran to him.

“Oh Ronnie, it's so good to see you. Come say hello to Harvey. I can't wait for you to meet the children. They are waiting impatiently for their big brother.”

“Mother, have you completely lost your mind?” Ronnie said. “You know nothing about this man. He is a scoundrel who has hurt people all his life. Seven orphans too? I won't stand for it?”

“Ronnie, what in the name of heaven has gotten into you? Yes, Harvey had some unfortunate dealings in the past but he has changed. As far as the seven orphans, as you call them, they are seven of the most wonderful children you would ever want to meet. I love Harvey and I love those children. You owe all of us an apology.”

This was not the reunion Margaret anticipated. She was shocked by her son's behavior. Ronnie stomped toward the train to pick up his bag.

“Margaret dear, I don't blame Ronnie for being skeptical. I'm sure I would have objected if my mother had accepted a marriage proposal from someone with a reputation like mine. I don't want to cause a rift between you and your son,” Harvey said quietly.

“Are you saying we shouldn't be married? Harvey, we can't disappoint the children. I love my son but he will not interfere in our plans. I have every intention of being Mrs. Harvey Wilson before the week ends.”

“You wrote that Aunt Helene is being married herself. How does James feel about that?” Ronnie asked.

“James is supportive of his mother and is very happy with her choice of a mate. Neville Merryweather is James' father after all.”

“Another fine, upstanding gentleman, I see.”

“Ronald Herbert Slater, if you keep up this insulting chatter you are perfectly welcome to turn around and get back on that train. You are a grown man but you are acting like an insolent child. I will not have it.”

Ronnie knew his behavior was abominable, he couldn't seem to help himself. Elaine told him to calm down before he boarded the train. He should have listened to her. In reality, this Harvey Wilson fellow wasn't at all like he'd imagined. He was very loving toward his mother. Maybe he had him pegged wrong. It still irked him that his mother had found a life without him. He was counting on her to move to New York City. Now it looked like that would never happen.

They arrived at Millie's and Ronnie was greeted with open arms by the brood of children waiting there. He was polite but distant. He also liked his mother's new friends in spite of himself. It was good to see Aunt Helene. She wasn't really his aunt but he had called her that for years and it had become a habit.

Helene could see he wasn't as happy about his mother's future as everyone else was. She sat down with him on front porch.

“I know you are worried about your mother. I hope you will believe me when I tell you Harvey Wilson is a very kind man. He is very much in love with your mother. His behavior in the past has not always been honorable, but he is making up for it now.”

“Aunt Helene, I don't know why she is jumping into marriage with this man. She has only known him a matter of weeks. She is not a young woman and to take on seven children is too much of a burden for her. Elaine and I bought a house with an extra bedroom so she could live with us one day. I can see that will never happen now.”

“Ronnie, could it be that you are jealous of your mother's new family? You know you will always be her son. Her heart is big enough for your family and her new one too.”

“Aunt Helene, you know me so well. I was shocked to hear mother was planning to marry again. I think I felt guilty for leaving her all alone in Albany. I have really made of mess of everything, haven't I?”

“No my dear, you haven't. I think you will find there is something about this town that brings out the forgiving nature of people.”

“Ralphie says you don't want to be our big brother. Don't you like us Ronnie?” Lulu looked up at him with eyes like saucers.

“Lulu, I would like nothing better than to be your big brother. Now shall we go over there and play ball with the others? I want you on my team.” Lulu smiled and held Ronnie's hand as they ran together.

“I have a little girl just about your age and a boy who is even older. Do you know you will be their aunt?”

“Will Ralphie be their uncle?” Lulu giggled so hard she fell down.

Margaret stood at the door. “I don't know what you said to him Helene but I think my Ronnie is back.”

“He would have come around by himself eventually, I just pointed out a few things.”

Harvey stood at the doorway too. “He's a fine looking young man my dear. Look how nicely he is playing with the children. I think he has won them over. He seems to be enjoying them too.”

Ronnie looked up and saw his mother standing with Harvey Wilson. He broke away from the children.

He held out his hand. “Harvey, I owe you an apology. I believe you care for my mother and I can see she cares deeply for you. I acted like a buffoon earlier and I'm very sorry about that.”

“Don't give it another thought son, I've been a buffoon most of my life.”

“I was thinking, Mother, after you are married, why don't you and Harvey plan a trip to New York City. Lulu is anxious to meet her niece and nephew. She is excited to know she is an aunt. Elaine would love to meet everyone too.” He hugged his mother.

“I'm afraid I can only stay for a couple of days. I hope you are planning the wedding soon. I'd like to be the one to give my mother in marriage. That is if it's alright with you, Mother.”

“I'll call the vicar right now before anyone changes his mind,” Harvey laughed.

“I would like to have the ceremony take place on the porch of our new home overlooking the lake. Would that be alright with you Harvey?”

“I'd marry you on a mountain top if I thought I could climb that far.”

They were married the very next day. Addie and Helene stayed up until the wee hours of the morning preparing the wedding cake. The ceremony was beautiful. Ronnie was sorry he had been so stubborn. Elaine would loved to have been there for the wedding. He boarded the train the next day with kisses and hugs for his new family.

“Don't worry about your mother, Ronnie. I will take good care of her.”

“I know you will Harvey. I should have learned long ago that my mother has good instincts about people and she was definitely right in your case.”

Harvey's guardianship went through quickly and the adoption proceedings had begun.

Bobby was still on the job at the winery. Lou Rossi found a new protege. Bobby was a promising student.

Teddy could usually be found at the new house. Reggie was impressed with his interest in building. It was the same as Reggie's had been when he was Teddy's age.

The newlyweds were enjoying their new family. Millie was happy to have her many bedrooms almost filled. It was nearing September and she and Neville were counting the days until Neville and Helene were married.

There was a knock on the door, Millie opened it and looked into the eyes of Prudence Merryweather. Leland held her upright as she swooned into his arms.