Leah and Alfie

Leah and Alfie

Oscar and Nettie Crowley were having a wonderful time in Greensboro. Nettie grew up there and knew just about everyone in town.

They had dinner with the Cooper children at Gladys and Arthur Preston's home. The Prestons had taken the Cooper children in when their father died and their mother's mental state had deteriorated so much she had to be confined to a home. The home was unlike an insane asylum and gave Alice Cooper a chance for a normal life in the future.

The Cooper children were thriving under the care of Gladys and Arthur. They had stability and order in their lives for the first time in many years. Marlin Cooper had been a mean father and a miserable human being. There was speculation that because of a brain tumor, his behavior had become erratic and unreasonable. Alice's fear of him drove her over the edge.

Polly Cooper was banished from the home when she had been victimized into believing she was the bride of James Philpot. James had arranged a wedding ceremony with his cousin posing as a minister. Polly found herself in the family way. James discovered the Cooper's weren't as rich as he thought and her father wasn't about to give him a dime. He told her to get rid of the baby and he left town.

Polly gave birth to a baby girl she named Faith. She left Greensboro seeking the help of her old school teacher, Nettie Dawson. Nettie took her into her home and her heart. Nettie married Oscar Crowley and the four of them were a family. Eventually, Polly married Randy Burke and left the Crowley home leaving it a little too quiet for the young at heart couple.

“We came to Greensboro with the Merryweathers and Wilsons. We thought there might be a child or two that wouldn't mind living with us old folks. We will be returning there tomorrow morning. We would like to be able to give a child a home and also free up some space for other needy children,” said Nettie.

“Oh Nettie, that is a wonderful idea,” said Gladys. “Arthur and I haven't been this happy since our own children left the nest. I think it has brought out the best in both of us. We love these children so very much I can't imagine them not being in our lives.”

“Nettie, did you mention Thanksgiving?” said Oscar.

“No, I haven't. It seems the year just started and already we are talking about Thanksgiving. Oscar and I would like you and the children, and your grown children also, to join us for Thanksgiving dinner. We will have a houseful with the boys and their families and Polly and her family.”

“Nettie, that's way too many people for you to serve at one time.”

“No, we have plenty of room. Oscar had an addition put on this summer. He is sure the boys and Faith are going to be filling the house with grandchildren and he wants to be ready when that happens. Besides, Trudy is already planning the menu. She is tired of just serving the two of us all the time. Of course she will have plenty of help in the kitchen that day. When she and Polly get together they cook up a storm. It takes us three days of recuperating after one of their meals.”

“It would be so nice to be together. I'm sure the children will love being with Polly and Faith for a few days.”

Oscar and Nettie said goodbye to their friends. Oscar was beginning to miss his own bed in his own house. “Let's get back to Camden Corners before suppertime tomorrow. All that talk about Miss Trudy's cooking has made me homesick.”

“I'd like that too Oscar. Evelyn said she had two children she would like us to meet this morning. We have been so busy visiting old friends and you boys capturing criminals that we haven't had as much time at the villa as I would have liked.”

Bright and early the next morning, Oscar and Nettie were in Evelyn's office.

“The two children I mentioned came to us about a week ago. They have not adjusted well to the environment. Neither one of the children have opened up to any of us. They are frightened and I fear they may have been kidnapped from their parents and threatened in such a way that they are afraid to speak. One of the young men in town has a cousin who is a policeman and lives in New York City. He found these children wandering in the streets. The normal procedure would have been to scoop them up and take them to the nearest foundling home. The fellow had heard of our facility here through his cousin and put them on a train to Greensboro. The cousin brought them directly here from the train station.

From what little they have said, it is obvious they have a British accent. We have alerted the London authorities of their whereabouts but they have not received any reports of missing children. The clothes they arrived in were tattered but of very good quality. That is about all I can tell you about them. They are sweet children but very troubled. Do you think you would be interested?”

Tears were running down Nettie's cheeks and Oscar knew, sight unseen, these were the children for them.

Evelyn called the children into the room. “Alfred and Leah, these nice people are Mr. & Mrs. Crowley. They would like to take you to their home to stay with them for a while. Do you think you would like that?”

They both shrugged and looked at the floor.

“Alfred, Leah, I am very happy to meet you. You may call me Miss Nettie if you would like to and this is Mr. Oscar. We would very much like you to come with us to Camden Corners. I think you would like it there. Do you think you would like to ride on the train again?”

“He likes to be called Alfie.” Leah said without raising her eyes from the floor.

“Alfie, do you like to fish? We have a big lake that has hundreds of fish in it. Do you like playing ball? There are many things we can do in Camden Corners.” Oscar said without getting more than a nod from Alfie.

Peggy came to gather the children. “Come with me children. We will collect your things and you may go with Miss Nettie and Mr. Oscar to their home.” The two children marched out of the room like little soldiers.

“I hope we can bring them out of their shells. The poor little things, they are scared to death. Oscar, we must hire a private investigator to track down their family.”

“I've already thought of that my dear. I will contact one in New York City that I have dealt with before. I wish we had more information about them. We'll have the Marino boy take a photo of each of them. That will help in the search.”

“How old are the children Evelyn, do you have any idea?”

“At first I thought they were twins but I'm thinking they are probably just close in age. I think Leah is around 7 and Alfie might be 6. I think Alfie is tall for his age. I believe they may have lived a rather cloistered life. They are not comfortable being so close to so many children. Even with the problems most of our residents have, they do seek out children their own age. Leah and Alfie just cling to each other. Are you two sure about this? I hope I haven't burdened you too much.”

“We will do our best. We will work on finding their family and in the meantime we will try to make them as comfortable as we can. I have worked with many disturbed children over the years, I know it won't be easy but hopefully we can help them get through their current situation.”

“I was hoping we could get together this evening with Polly and the boys but it might be best if we just have a quiet time together. I'll gather some of the books we have left from when Faith was here. Maybe reading to the children will be the best thing we can do for them tonight.” said Nettie.

“That's a good idea dear. I haven't been able to get more than a grunt out of Alfie during the entire train ride. I thought an ice cream sundae would help but he still said nothing.”

“He did enjoy that ice cream though. So you did communicate through your stomachs.” Nettie laughed.

Trudy served them a nice supper. “I've never known children to be so quiet. Are you sure you two have tongues?” she teased as she placed a roll on each one of their plates.

Alfie stuck his tongue out and giggled just a little. Leah grabbed his arm as though trying to stop him from saying anything. It didn't go unnoticed by any of the adults.

“Oscar we must find out why these children are so terrified. I wonder if we should call Doc McMillan to examine them?”

“That's not a bad idea. I've asked Tony Marino to come over to take a picture of them. He will develop it and I'll have it sent special delivery to the investigator in New York.

Nettie sat on the sofa and spread the books out on the table in front of her. “Would you like to choose a book to read Leah?”

Leah shook her head no and sat in a chair by the window staring out.

“How about you Alfie?”

Alfie pointed to one and then looked at his sister. He shook his head no and went to the window sitting on the same chair as Leah.

Nettie picked up one that was a favorite of Faiths and began reading. After several minutes, Alfie stood up and walked over to Nettie. His legs started to get tired and he sat down beside her. Not too long after that, Leah got up and came over to the sofa. She sat on the other side of Nettie.

Oscar walked into the room. What a picture this was. Nettie with a child on each side of her. He thought once again what a wonderful mother she would have made.

Tony Marino stopped by to take photos of the children. They didn't know what he was doing and had seen many strange things in the United States so they just ignored him. If they had known their likenesses were going to be sent to an investigator, they may not have been so cooperative.

Doc arrived and checked them over a bit. He talked to them in his quiet way and they both actually smiled. “I think they have suffered a trauma. You are right to be concerned. I would say they have been threatened in some way about not saying anything. I can't think of any better people for them to be with right now. My advice is just to listen if and when they begin to open up. I think they already feel comfortable being with you. The villa may have been a little too hectic for them. Good luck and I'll check back later this week.”

Nettie tucked the children into their beds. They chose to sleep in the same room and that was fine with her. She and Oscar watched from the doorway a while later as both of these precious children slept.

In a castle outside of London, a young mother was wringing her hands. “Where can they be Phillip, where can my children be?”

“Minerva, I think it's time we call the authorities. Our Leah and Alfie have been gone so long and there has been no word about the ransom in weeks. If they are still alive we need to find them.”

“Phillip, no. I won't allow it. The kidnapper said they would die if we called the authorities. We will be killing our own children.”

The butler knocked on the door. “Begging your pardon, sir. There is a gentleman to see you. He is from Scotland Yard shall I show him in?”

“Yes Briggs, please show him in.”

“How do you do, sir? Hiram Rowntree here,” showing his badge he continued, “I would like to ask you a few questions about a Miss Bridget Davies. I believe she was in your employ as nanny to your two children.”

“Yes sir, she was up until four months ago. I believe she was leaving London to wed a gentleman up north somewhere.”

“I'm sorry to inform you that her body has been discovered in a ditch. She had been bludgeoned to death.”

Minerva cried out at the news.

“That is horrible detective, I wonder if you would excuse my wife. She has been under a doctor's care of late and should not be subjected to this stress.”

“I understand. If we need information from her we can ask her at a later time. Can you tell me all you know about Miss Davies?

“I'm sorry officer, I know very little about her personal life. She was recommended by the agency we go through for all our domestic help. Our children seemed to be very fond of her and were disappointed when she left.”

“I wonder if I may speak with your children.”

Phillip had been forced to lie about the children's whereabouts before and quickly said, “I'm afraid they are visiting their grandparents in Bromley.”

“I don't think it will necessary to disturb you any further sir. I'm sorry to have been the bearer of such unhappy news. I bid you farewell.”

The door shut behind the detective. Those two are hiding something, he thought to himself. They haven't seen the last of me.

“Minerva, we have to do something. I saw the look in that detective's eye. He knew I wasn't being completely honest with him. It is time to report the children as missing. We can't go on like this wondering where they are.”

Minerva agreed. “Wherever they are, I hope they know we are thinking of them.”

At that moment, a smile came across Leah and Alfie's faces as they slept. “Oscar look, they are both smiling. I hope they are having happy dreams.”

Christmas Magic

Christmas Magic

It was the week of Christmas and the town of Camden Corners was a bustle of activity. The sun had come out a few days after the early December blizzard and the snowdrifts were disappearing each day although there was a fresh coating of snow covering the ground.

School was out for the holiday and the children were taking full advantage of the snow. Billy and Butch Duesenberry were looking forward to their first Christmas in Camden Corners. They had always been aware of the holiday. People were always a bit more generous at that time of year and the boys had found panhandling to be very profitable in December. They were very happy they didn't have to rely on strangers' generosity anymore. Kate and Will were delighted their home was filled with laughter and activity that the two growing boys provided. Will believed he was the luckiest man in the world. Kate was everything he had ever dreamed of. In less than a year's time he was a married man with two sons and a baby on the way. He had to pinch himself every once in a while to make sure it was true.

Will was looking forward to the annual Christmas pageant. The Ladies Auxiliary had always taken charge of the event in the past with Will's blessing. It was an event everyone in town looked forward to every year. The tradition had gone on for so many years that some of the early Marys and Josephs were watching their grandchildren in those roles now.

This evening is their last rehearsal before the Christmas Eve presentation. Cassandra Rossi is Mary this year. Kenny Bentley is playing Joseph. Becky Bentley is a singing angel. This is a variation of the usual performance because Becky's sweet voice is so heavenly. Will's son, Butch also is playing a solo on his clarinet. He is a natural with a musical instrument.

Iris Taylor is one of the wise men. She had been practicing the word frankincense all morning. She thought it would be easier if she had been the wiseman carrying the gift of gold to the baby Jesus but she accepted her part and her lines without complaint. Iris was rehearsing while her new baby sister was watching from her cradle. Little Jennie Taylor had been born in September. She will be playing the part of the baby Jesus in the pageant. Joey was running around being a boy but Iris didn't seem to mind.

Diana and Joe Taylor were watching their children from the doorway. The day Iris came into town less than two years ago changed their lives completely. They had been married for five years and were afraid they were not going to ever have a baby. Shortly after they became parents to Iris, little Joey was on the way and before too long Diana discovered she was expecting another and Jennie was the result. Diana and Joe had so much to be grateful for this year.

Kenny Bentley wasn't sure he liked the idea of wearing a beard in the pageant tomorrow night.

“This thing itches. Couldn't we pretend Joseph went to the barber shop that day?”

Caroline Bentley laughed. “Have you ever seen a barber's pole in a picture of the desert Kenny?”

Caroline was reflecting on the previous year too. She was all by herself in this big house just a few months ago when her daughter, Grace married her long time beau, Ted Evans. Shortly after Lucinda and Cassandra came to live in the boarding house she was reunited with Jamison Bentley. Caroline and Jamison knew they were meant to be together and planned a future. Suddenly, two young orphans were in their lives and they became a family. The surprises weren't over when soon after their marriage, Caroline discovered she was expecting a baby. She didn't believe it was possible since her daughter, Grace was making her a grandmother for the first time.

“Grandmother's don't have babies,” she insisted to Doc McMillan.

Once the shock wore off, she and Jamison were delighted at the prospect of a new baby of their own.

Lucinda and Cassandra moved out of the boarding house after Lucinda's marriage to Nick Rossi but the house was still full especially when Jamison's two sons came for a visit.

Caroline knew Kenny would be wearing the beard whether it itched or not. He was a pleasant child who had faced more tragedy than any young boy should have to. His mother died after a long illness and his father eventually drank himself to death after he lost his wife. Kenny took full responsibility for his young sister, Becky. Becky was mute because of fear her father had instilled in her. After a few months of living around people who loved and cared for her she came out of her shell and began speaking again. That was when it was discovered that she had such a lovely singing voice.

Caroline didn't think she could ever be happier than she was right now and then felt Jamison's strong arms wrapped around her waist.

Cassandra Rossi picked up the necklace her papa, Paul McCoy, had given her shortly before he was gunned down on the streets of New York City. Cassandra was only 2 years old when her papa was taken away so suddenly. She was having a hard time remembering him. Her life had changed dramatically in the last year. As it turned out, Mr. Howard who lived next door to Cassandra's mama and her in New York was her great grandfather. He left her mama a lot of money when he died. She and Mama moved here to Camden Corners and met her new papa, Nick Rossi. Cassandra loved Papa Nick with all her heart but cherished the necklace with the pink heart. She only wore it for special occasions but she liked to put it around her neck. She wanted Papa Paul to know she loved him and would never forget him and the necklace had become a symbol of that love to her.

“Cassandra” her mother called from the stairwell. “Kenny and Becky are here for you. They want you to come with them to the park to build a snowman.”

Cassandra, forgetting she was wearing her necklace, raced down the stairs to get her coat and boots on and took off with her friends where they met other children in the park.

After an hour or so of being out in the cold, Cassandra and her friends were back inside the house sipping hot chocolate and nibbling Christmas cookies.

Lucinda noticed her daughter had a chain around her neck. “Cassandra where did you get that chain, is it from your necklace?”

Cassandra put her hands to her throat. She felt for the pink heart and it wasn't there.

“Oh Mama, I forgot I had my necklace on and the heart is gone” she couldn't hold the tears back. The only remembrance of her papa was the necklace and now she had lost it.

Nick had just arrived home and said he would help her look for it. The children put their coats and boots back on and they all went out the door to the park.

Nick and Lucinda knew it would be like finding a needle in a haystack. The snow had been falling since the children had come in from the cold. The heart would most likely be covered with snow by now. They searched until the children were almost stiff with the cold. Lucinda took them home but Nick kept looking until the daylight disappeared. Nick knew how much that necklace meant to Cassandra. He knew losing the heart was like losing her father all over again. He came back home and told Cassandra they would look for it every day and when spring came and all the snow disappeared they would surely find it. Nick knew the chances of finding it were slim but he couldn't let his daughter know that.

Nick spent the better part of the following morning in the park looking for the heart. Lucinda and Cassandra looked with him. It was too cold for a little girl to be out for too long at one time. It was Christmas Eve and Cassandra had to get ready to go to the church for the Christmas Eve service and pageant.

All the children did a wonderful job with their performances. Becky Bentley sang her little heart out. Nick noticed Cassandra touching her neck a time or two. She had planned to wear her precious necklace under her costume while playing her part as Mary that evening.

After the ceremony ended, the parishioners gathered in the basement meeting room for coffee and sweet treats provided by the Ladies Auxiliary.

Everyone wished their friends and neighbors a Merry Christmas and bid good evening as they all went to their homes. The children were anticipating the arrival of Santa Claus and wanted to be sure they were in bed and asleep so that he wouldn't pass them by.

Butch and Billy were a little old to be waiting for Santa but this was the first time in their young lives that they were part of the celebration and joined in and enjoyed the fantasy.

Caroline and Jamison encouraged Kenny and Becky to talk about their mama and Papa. Caroline knew the children loved their new parents but wanted to keep the few memories they had of their birth parents alive. They would always miss their mama and even with his faults, their papa too but they were so happy in Camden Corners with Caroline and Jamison and knew their mama would be happy for them too.

Iris' life was filled with love and laughter. Her little brother and sister adored her and she felt the same way about them. She also loved her Mama Mavis' friend, Cody. He was very special to her. Not only because he knew her mama but he saved her life at the Founder's Day picnic last summer. Iris rarely thought about her father, Earl Short anymore. She felt as though she had lived with Joe and Diana Taylor forever. She liked it that way and she knew she was loved.

Cassandra walked home with her parents. She decided she wasn't going to be sad anymore because of losing the heart. Papa Nick told her she would always have her Papa Paul in her own heart. His love could never be lost. She was deep in thought about how much she loved Papa Nick when she heard him shout.

“Cassandra, look!”

She glanced at the snow pile where Nick was standing and saw a sparkle that made her want to cover her eyes. She walked over to it and and saw her pink heart resting on top of the snow. Her heart had been there all along. Or had it? Through her excitement, Cassandra thought she heard the sound of jingle bells as she reached down and touched her pink heart. She looked up at Nick who was beaming and her own heart felt like it was going to pop out of her chest. Cassandra knew she was a very lucky girl to have two papas who loved her.

After they got home Cassandra said her prayers, mama and papa tucked her into bed.

“Merry Christmas, Cassandra,” said her mother

“Merry Christmas, Mama and Papa.”

They left the room arm in arm as Cassandra closed her eyes.

“Merry Christmas Papa, thank you for my pink heart and thank you for my Papa Nick.”

Two and Two Make a Family

 

Two and Two Make a Family

After a delightful evening filled with good food and good company, Caroline and Lucinda are about to retire for the night when they hear a sneeze in the hydrangea bushes under the porch railing. They discover two children hiding there.

“We mean no harm ma'am. We were just looking for any scraps of food you might be throwing away” said the little boy who couldn't have been much more than 9 years old.

“Come out of there children. Where did you come from and what are you doing hiding in the bushes?”

Along with the boy, a little girl around 6 stepped out. They were both filthy dirty and shivering although it was a warm summer evening. Caroline and Lucinda hustled them into the house. They didn't wait for an explanation but started filling the bathtubs with warm soapy water. Caroline guided the boy to one room and took the girl by the hand into the other. She had a stack of clothing that tenants had left behind. Caroline always laundered the items and placed them in a safe place in case their owners ever came back for them. She was able to find a pair of pajamas that she thought would fit the boy and Lucinda found a nightgown of Cassandras that should fit the girl just fine for the night.

The little girl was all but falling asleep in the warm water. Caroline washed her grimy hair, rinsed her off and wrapped her in a towel before putting on Cassandra's nightgown.

“What is your name, sweetheart?”

There was no reply. Only the two big eyes staring at her. By that time the boy had emerged from the tub, clean from head to toe. Caroline wasn't accustomed to little boys but she imagined that they usually didn't get themselves this clean.

“She doesn't talk” said the boy.

The women took the children into the kitchen and started warming up the leftovers from the evening meal. They both devoured the plates of food. Caroline shivered at the thought of how long it had been since they had eaten. After they had finished eating, the little girl was barely able to keep her eyes open. Lucinda carried her up the stairs to one of the guest rooms.

“No, I have to stay with my sister. She will wake up and be afraid if I'm not there.”

Lucinda said she would sit in the room with her until he came upstairs but he would need to stay and talk to Miss Caroline before he came up to bed. Cassandra brought her favorite doll into the room to help comfort the little girl. Lucinda was proud of her daughter. That doll was the last thing given to her by her Papa and it was very special to her. The little girl woke up and looked around for her brother.

“Your brother is downstairs and will be here soon. Cassandra and I will keep you company until he comes.”

Cassandra was amazed that the little girl didn't speak.

“My Mama and I lived in New York City in a big building next to my grandfather. But, I didn't know he was my grandfather. But, he died. But, we came to Camden Corners. Camden Corners is a magic place. You will see. If you stay here you will be able to talk again. I just know it. Do you like the park? There is a big park by the water. Mr. Nick took Mama and me there. Maybe he can take you too. We will have fun.”

Cassandra went on and on. Lucinda would have stopped the little chatterbox but the girl seemed to be hanging on every word. She thought she saw a little glimmer in the child's eyes. She couldn't help but wonder what had gone on in this little girl's life that caused her to be unable to speak. Meanwhile the boy was sitting at the kitchen table with Caroline.

He said “My name is Kenny and my sister's name is Rebecca but I call her Becky.”

Caroline fixed him a tall glass of milk and a plate of cookies as he told her how he and his sister ended up hiding beneath her hydrangea bushes.

“We lived in Portersville with our mama and papa. Mama always sang songs to Becky and me but one day she stopped singing. Papa said she was very sick and it was hard for her to talk. She would smile at us and give us hugs but she didn't talk to us anymore and finally she went to sleep and didn't wake up.

Papa was so sad that he went to see Mr. Benson to get some medicine. He would bring the medicine home in a big jug and drink from the jug until he fell asleep. Papa cried a lot and didn't talk to us anymore except to tell us to be quiet. Becky liked to sing the songs that Mama sang to us but Papa told her to stop that singing or she would end up dead like our mama. Becky stopped singing and stopped talking too. The doctor said Papa had too much medicine and he went to heaven to be with our mama.

The sheriff told us to gather our clothes that he was taking us to live with our Uncle Sven. Uncle Sven didn't have any children and told the sheriff to take us to the orphanage. He didn't want his brother's brats around him. He said his brother was a drunken fool who married a frail, sickly young thing and his offspring would turn out to be the same. The sheriff took us home with him that night and let us sleep in a big bed. He thought I was asleep but I heard him tell his wife that he was going to have to deliver us to the orphanage the next day. She said it was too bad we wouldn't be able to stay together.

I couldn't let Becky be alone without me. She would be so scared. After the sheriff and his wife went to sleep, I woke Becky up and we started walking toward town. Becky was very tired and we stopped near Mr. Poulson's dairy farm. We slept in the barn and then the next morning we climbed into the wagon Mr. Poulson was filling with milk bottles to deliver to the general stores in all the nearby towns. His last stop was Camden Corners and we got off the wagon here and hid in the bushes.

“We won't bother you anymore after tonight, Miss Caroline. I can't let my sister go to the orphanage by herself. We will be on our way tomorrow, I promise.”

Caroline's heart was breaking that this sweet child was going to take care of his sister.

“You and Becky will not be going to an orphanage. You can stay here in this house until we figure out what to do.”

Caroline knew what she was going to do but didn't want to make any promises until she talked it over with Oscar Crowley. Kenny started yawning. Caroline walked him upstairs and tucked him in next to his sister.

“He said his sister would be afraid if she woke up and he wasn't there.” Caroline said tearfully.

She was determined that these children would never know fear again. She and Lucinda said goodnight to Kenny and the sleeping Becky. Cassandra had fallen asleep at the foot of the bed and Lucinda carried her into her own bed.

The next morning, Jamison was surprised to find two little faces staring at him as he entered the kitchen.

“Who have we here?”

“My name is Kenny sir and this is my sister, Becky.”

Caroline pulled Jamison aside and told him what Kenny had told her the night before. Jamison had a worried look on his face and Caroline was afraid for a second that he was going to tell her she had to turn the children over to the authorities.

She was happy when he said “They can't be sent to an orphanage. How do you feel about a ready made family?”

Lucinda stayed with the children while Jamison drove the carriage to Portersville. They picked up Oscar Crowley on the way and because it was such a pretty day, Nettie came along for the ride. Oscar had known Judge Herman Blake for a long time. He knew he was an honest man and recommended they stop to see him as soon as they arrived in Portersville. The judge was interested in the matter. He mentioned that he knew there was a small house on the outskirts of town but had no idea two children lived in that house. Sheriff Billings is a fine old gentleman but his memory has been failing him recently. He sent his assistant to fetch the sheriff. When he arrived in the office, Judge Blake asked him about the children.

“I seem to remember a couple of small children coming to the house the other day. Yes, I don't know where they went though. They weren't there yesterday when the wife went to fetch them for breakfast. Maybe their uncle changed his mind and decided to take them in after all.”

The judge and his visitors rode out to talk with the children's Uncle Sven. He refused to open the door for them and told them if they bothered him again about those two rotten kids he'd greet them with his shotgun. Jamison had to hold Caroline back. He knew she was about to bop the old man on his head for saying such terrible things about those precious children.

The judge was having temporary custody papers drawn up. The adoption would be final in a couple of months. Caroline and Jamison were grateful to the judge for his help and would he mind doing them one more favor? Would he marry them that afternoon. Judge Blake said he would be delighted and with Oscar and Nettie as their witnesses, he pronounced them husband and wife.

The ride back home to Camden Corners was a joyous one. Oscar had packed a bottle of champagne in a satchel and they drank a toast to the happy couple.

“This has all happened so quickly I haven't even had a chance to tell Grace about finding Jamison again and now we are married with a brother and sister for her.”

“We will stop by the hardware store and pick her up on the way home.”

“This calls for a celebration!” said Nettie.

Grace was thrilled for her mother and had some news for her also. Not only was Caroline a new bride and a new mother, she was going to be a grandmother in just a few months.

Jamison and Caroline sat Kenny and Becky down on the sofa in the parlor while everyone was enjoying Caroline's lovely garden. Kenny couldn't believe his ears when he learned that he and Becky would be living with Mr. Jamison and Miss Caroline. He held Becky close and whispered that they would always be together now. Becky smiled and wrapped her arms around Caroline. Caroline wondered if life could get any better than this.

Second Chances

 

Second Chances

Looking out the window of his high rise office, Jamison Bentley was tempted to tear up the letter he had received from his old friend, Oscar Crowley. He didn't see much of Oscar anymore. His father had been a college friend of Oscars. He knew Hillary had corresponded with him until her death a couple of years ago. Jamison always admired the old guy but any thoughts of Camden Corners brought sadness to him even after all these years. He loved Hillary and the life they built together with their two sons but Caroline Watson remained on his mind and in his heart since the first time he laid eyes on her. He knew her daughter, Grace, would be grown now probably with children of her own. He often wondered if he had pursued Caroline just a little longer if she would finally open her heart to the love he was offering her.

Seemed two young marrieds were looking for an architect to build their dream house on property left to them by an uncle. Eventually they wanted to build a winery and looking further down the road, a hospital in Camden Corners. Such ambition for these young people. Jamison hadn't drawn up plans for a residential dwelling since he started in the business over 20 years ago. His sons had followed in their dad's footsteps and had become architects too. Maybe he should just hand this project over to them. Something stopped him from doing that and before he knew it, he was on the train leaving for Camden Corners.

The Hightower boys had left the designing of the new home to their wives. They knew they wanted to build a house big enough for several children. They would have a joint living area and kitchen and two separate wings. Their plan was to have four bedrooms in each wing. They could always build on if they needed more in the future. The Bloom twins weren't getting any younger but they would welcome any future children with open arms.

Jamison was surprised to see how much the town had grown since he had been here. The Opera House had been one of his first architectural creations. He recognized it immediately. He had to admit, it was still a fine looking structure. Jamison rented a horse and carriage and was given directions to the Hightower property. He avoided passing by the Watson House on his way. He needed to brace himself to see Caroline again. He wondered if she ever married, if she ever thought about him. Probably not. She never answered his letters which would indicate that she wasn't interested back then and she certainly wouldn't be interested now.

Jamison arrived at the site and introduced himself to the Hightowers. He remembered the Bloom twins from years ago and couldn't help but marvel at how wonderful they both looked. They were still identical but each had an air of loveliness about them. A far cry from the dowdy young girls he remembered. He was introduced to Lucinda McCoy. He thought he detected a twinkle in her eye as she shook his hand. The girls knew exactly what they wanted and Jamison knew it would be a simple task to draw up plans for them this evening and present them the following day.

Lucinda spoke up “Mr. Bentley, I'm sure you will be requiring lodging for the duration of your visit. I happen to be residing in a lovely room at Watson's B & B and I am quite sure Mrs. Caroline Watson has a vacant room in her home. I would be more than happy to escort you to her establishment.”

Jamison felt his heart beat a little faster. Oscar had generously offered to shelter him while he was in Camden Corners but he couldn't seem to say anything but, “I would appreciate your assistance, Miss McCoy.”

Lucinda was full of chatter on the way to the Watson house. Jamison barely heard her voice over the beating of his heart. They stopped in front of the home and Lucinda suddenly remembered she needed to pick up her daughter at her friend Iris' house. She could see Caroline in the garden and she was sure Mr. Bentley would be able to find his way to her.

Jamison walked slowly to the garden gate. He could see her tending the rosebushes. She was as lovely as the day he kissed her so many years ago. He stood where he was and watched her for several minutes. Caroline had the feeling someone was there and turned her head. She thought she was imagining seeing Jamison Bentley standing at the entrance to the garden. Her heart skipped a beat and she was afraid to speak. Jamison walked toward her and took her hand. They looked into each others eyes and the years disappeared. He bent his head to kiss her and she didn't resist. They stood in the garden for the longest time, neither daring to speak for fear they were in a dream that could end at any moment.

“Mother, are you back here?” called Grace.

She stopped in her tracks when she saw her mother in a gentleman's arms.

“Mother!”

Caroline stepped back and tried to regain her composure.

“Hello Grace dear. You remember Mr. Bentley don't you? Of course, you don't. You were much too young. Jamison, this is my daughter Grace. She's married to the Evans boy.” Caroline knew she was babbling and couldn't stop herself.

Jamison said “I remember Grace. You were very little when I was in Camden Corners. You have become a lovely young woman. You look very much like your mother, don't you?”

Grace wanted to chuckle. Her mother and this handsome stranger were acting like school children who had been caught stealing kisses. She had never seen her mother in the arms of a man before. Grace and her new husband Ted had been a couple for ten years. They knew they would be married one day but that day didn't seem to be happening. A stranger came to town one weekend and caught Grace's attention. Grace saw through the randy young man and knew Ted was the one for her. Ted realized his love for Grace was all he needed. He didn't know why they had put off being married but decided the time was right and they became husband and wife. Grace had a suspicion that she was going to be making her mother a grandmother but this did not seem the time to make that announcement.

“Mother, I came by to see if you were available to have dinner with Ted and me this evening but I can see you are busy. We will make it another day. Mr. Bentley, it was nice to meet you again. I'm sure you will enjoy your visit to our town.”

Grace bid farewell to the couple, turned and walked down the street to visit with Emma Patterson. She knew her mother had tea quite often in Emma's Antique shop and wondered if she knew anything about her mother's gentleman caller.

Caroline finally felt her composure return. She suggested Jamison join her in the parlor for a cup of tea. He held her hand as they walked into the house. He wasn't about to let her change her mind again. That kiss told him all he needed to know. Caroline still loved him, he was sure of that. Caroline didn't let go of his hand until she needed to free it to pour the tea. She was sorry she didn't have anything stronger to offer Jamison. She thought he could probably stand something and she wouldn't mind a drop of whiskey herself.

Jamison told her about his life with Hillary and the boys. He had given up on their love and Hillary happened along. He did his best to make a good life for his family but Caroline was always in the back of his mind. Caroline admitted she felt as though she was betraying George's memory.

“It took several years before I realized that George loved me more like a daughter than a wife and he would have wanted me to find happiness with someone else after his death. By then, I knew you were married and that was a closed book. There has never been anyone else in my life.”

They were talking and laughing when Lucinda and Cassandra came in the front door. Lucinda was grinning and Jamison realized now why he had seen a twinkle in the young woman's eye when they first met.

He said aloud “I wonder what prompted Oscar Crowley to contact me about designing the Hightower house. Oscar knows I haven't specialized in houses in many years.”

“And to think,” replied Caroline, “I never told a soul about my feelings for Jamison until I told my young renter here.”

“I think you picked the right person to tell, Lucinda seems to be able to get right to the heart of the matter.”

“Yes, she does and now we must encourage her to follow her heart too.”

“I'm working on it” Lucinda said with a wink.

Just then there was a knock on the front door.

“Well, if it isn't Mr. Nick Rossi.” Caroline said as she introduced the two men.

Nick apologized for barging in but he just happened to be taking a walk and wondered if Lucinda and Cassandra would like to join him for dinner at his sister's house. He knew it sounded lame when he said it but he just knew he wanted to spend the evening with Lucinda.

“I have dinner on the stove and it will be just me tonight if you take Lucinda and Cassandra away. Jamison,” she said softly, “I hope you will join us tonight too.”

“I would be delighted, but only if you will allow me to help. I'm not a gourmet cook like my friend Nick here, but I am a whiz at boiling water.”

Cassandra wanted to help too, so all of them walked to the kitchen where the men were given aprons. Nick plopped Cassandra on the counter next to a big pot of vegetable soup. He showed her the art of adding just a pinch of this and a dash of that. She giggled as he kissed his fingertips exclaiming “magnifico” and waving his hand in the air. She did the same thing several times until her mother told her that was quite enough with the magnifico. Everyone was talking and laughing and enjoying their little adventure in cooking. It continued as they all sat down. Cassandra said grace and thanked God for her new family in Camden Corners. They all were sorry to have the evening come to an end. Jamison was retiring to his basement room. The room had its own entrance and was not accessible through the main house so there would not be any talk of impropriety when a single man stayed in the boarding house. He held Caroline's hand and told her twenty five years was long enough to wait to make her his wife. They planned to make wedding arrangements in the morning after he dropped off the plans for the Hightower house. As he passed by the hydrangea bushes, he heard a rustling sound.

“You'd best secure the trash barrel, I do believe the raccoons are hungry tonight.”

Nick said good night to Lucinda and Cassandra. He turned and started walking away when he heard a little voice

“Good Night Mr. Nick, I love you.”

This little girl could pull on his heartstrings more than any child he had ever known. He turned around, bent to his knees and said

“I love you too, Miss Cassandra.”

Lucinda thought she detected a little tear in his eye. The three were standing on the porch steps when they heard a sneeze.

“I don't think that's a raccoon in those bushes” said Caroline as she pulled back the branches and saw four little eyes staring at her.

Loving Again

 

Loving Again

Lucinda and Cassandra were walking hand in hand on a beautiful Sunday morning. The birds were chirping in the trees as they passed by on their way to services at Saint Peter's Church. Lucinda was thinking back to just a few weeks ago. She didn't know where she would find the money to pay the rent on their tiny apartment in the big city. Now she and Cassandra were living in a beautiful room in the loveliest town she had ever seen. She had friends and was making new ones each day. They entered the church and sat down in the pew. Both mother and daughter were kneeling in prayer and thanksgiving for the home and family they had found in Camden Corners.

Seated behind them and to the right was Nicola Rossi and the entire Marino family. Nick's heart skipped a beat when he looked up and noticed Lucinda and Cassandra sitting so close. He had only met Lucinda one time but the attraction to her was almost overwhelming.

After services, Lucinda thought it would be fun to take a walk by the beach. Cassandra was squealing with delight when they came upon a traveling carnival with a carousel, fortune tellers and games of chance. Nick, who had been waylaid by several of his friends finally caught up with them. Lucinda was happy to see a familiar face.

The three of them rode the carousel several times. Nick won a stuffed bear for Cassandra that was almost as big as she was.

As they strolled by the fortune teller, she asked if “The little family would like to know how many more children they would have? Madame DuPont will tell you for only five cents.”

Nick laughed while Lucinda's face turned bright red.

“It is almost time for dinner at my sister Rosa's house. Would you and Cassandra like to join us today?” asked Nick.

“Oh my goodness, we couldn't impose on your family without warning.”

“Are you kidding? Rosa would be insulted if you didn't come. Besides, I saw you in church and promised her I would bring you and Cassandra back before the bread finished baking.”

“I'm hungry, Mama. May we eat with Mr. Nick today?”

“Hey, you two are ganging up on me. I'll give in if you are sure it's alright with your sister.”

Lucinda was finding out what it was like to be a part of a big happy family. She was welcomed with open arms by every one of the Marinos. Nick's nieces took Cassandra by the hand directly to the playroom where there were more dolls and doll houses than Cassandra had ever seen. His nephew Tony brought out his camera that was never very far away and started taking photos of everyone.

“Nicola, show Lucinda your garden and the grapevines. She can see what a wonderful farmer you are and what a superb vintner you will be.”

“You'll have to forgive my sister. She exaggerates when it comes to her family. According to her we are all the best at anything we do, the smartest of people and the best looking specimens that have ever been created.”

Lucinda laughed. She loved this family already. Now she felt close to two families in Camden Corners and she liked that feeling. Lucinda was impressed with what Nick had planted. The grapevines were growing nicely. Not that she knew anything about grapevines or grapes. She tasted one and it was sweet and tangy at the same time. Nick told her the vines on the left were ready to be harvested and he would be beginning the process of making them into wine. His father was a vintner in Tuscany and he had been working the fields since he was a young boy. Ernesto came outside with a glasses filled with wine made from the grapes. Lucinda thought it tasted good but had nothing to compare it to. She had never tasted wine before since she and Paul never had enough money to buy any kind of spirits.

It was well into the evening when Lucinda was able to tear Cassandra away from her new friends and all the wonderful toys. Rosa and all the family hugged their visitors goodnight.

Nick walked them back to the boarding house. Mrs. Watson was sitting on the porch and offered to take Cassandra up to bed while Lucinda chatted with Nick. They sat on the porch swing. Nick took her hand in his and Lucinda pulled it away. She apologized and said she felt a disloyalty to her husband. She knew that was absurd but she couldn't help herself. Nick apologized himself for being so forward. He admitted he was very attracted to Lucinda but he was willing to accept friendship only if that was all she was able to give. He hoped it wouldn't be too long before she felt comfortable enough to open her heart to him. They said goodnight and Lucinda walked up the stairs to her room.

Mrs. Watson was just dimming the light as Lucinda walked in to see her daughter sleeping soundly. Mrs. Watson could tell by the worried look on Lucinda's face that something was not right.

“Oh Mrs. Watson, I don't know what I am going to do. I do like Nick and I think he likes me but I feel so guilty for all the wonderful things that have happened lately. Paul worked so hard and struggled through his life and now I am finding happiness without him.”

“My dear child” replied Mrs. Watson “Allow me to tell you my story of how my guilt drove me away from a man I truly loved.”

My mother and father were married for several years before I was born. They thought they would remain childless but my birth proved them wrong. Mother was rather fragile and my birth was difficult for her. From what I remember of her she was a very tender and loving woman. I was only 9 years old when she contracted pneumonia and passed away. My father was devastated by her death but did his best to raise his little girl.

When I was barely 16, he passed too. His best friend, Mr. George Watson had never married. He took me into his home as I had no other relatives. It was considered scandalous that a young girl was living in the home of a man without benefit of marriage and therefore, at the age of 16 I was married to a much older man. He had taken me in when I had no one else. He was kind and loving and although I wasn't in love with him, I loved him very much.

Grace was born two years later and on her third birthday, George was taken from us. Money was not a concern since we had been well taken care of for the rest of our lives. The two of us lived in this big old house all by ourselves. I loved being a mother to Grace but I felt something was missing in my life. I had the idea of turning our home into a boarding house and renting rooms out to travelers and as a temporary home for newcomers to Camden Corners.

Oscar Crowley arranged a meeting with a young architect friend of his from Gilford. I remember the day Jamison Bentley came into my life. He was young and very good looking. I felt myself blush when he tipped his hat to me. He seemed to know exactly what I had in mind for this house. He took notes and drew sketches and had a plan the next day. It was exactly what I had dreamed of and work was started the following week.

Jamison arranged for all the workers that were needed and the transformation had begun. He was here every day supervising and I knew in my heart that I was falling in love for the first time in my life. The work was finally finished and I was happy but also sad because I knew Jamison would be leaving to return to his home in Gilford. The day the house was completed he showed me all the rooms and we walked out into the garden where he had built the gazebo.

The sun was setting and there was a soft breeze blowing the sycamore tree when he took me in his arms and kissed me as I have never been kissed before. Or since, I might add. I found myself kissing him back and feeling that kiss down to my toes. He told me he loved me and had from the beginning. He said we would be married as soon as possible and he would adopt Grace and we would give her plenty of brothers and sisters. It all sounded so wonderful to me but then I remembered George. The guilt took over and I told Jamison that would not be possible. I didn't love him and he should go back to Gilford and forget we ever met. I ran into the house locking the door behind me and sobbed for what seemed to be an eternity.

Jamison wrote to me several times but I returned his letters unopened. Finally, the letters stopped but my memories of him and that kiss were still with me as they are to this day. One of my roomers left a copy of the Gilford paper in his room and there was a notice of the impending nuptials of Mr. Jamison Bentley and Miss Hillary Carson. This time I only sobbed for half of an eternity.

“Oh, Mrs. Watson. What a heartbreaking story.”

“You now know my deep, dark secret that even my daughter doesn't know. Please call me Caroline.”

“I'd like that, Caroline. I think the next time I see Mr. Nicola Rossi, I may be brazen and reach for his hand this time and hope he doesn't yank it away.”

“I don't think he will” Caroline said with a wink.

“Have you ever heard anything about Jamison Bentley through these years?”

“Only that he has two sons. His wife passed away a couple of years ago. I almost wrote to him when Oscar Crowley told me that but it seemed too soon and besides, I'm sure he has forgotten all about me by now.”

Lucinda doubted that but didn't say anything. She hugged Caroline and thanked her for confiding in her. The two women bid each other good night.

The next morning, Lucinda joined Hyacinth and Dahlia. The twins were planning the house that would be built on the property.

“What you need is an architect and I think I know where to find one” said a smiling Lucinda.

“Let's check with Oscar Crowley. He will know where to find Mr. Jamison Bentley of Gilford.”