So Far From Home

So Far From Home

“You don't have to be afraid of Miss Nettie, Leah, she likes little girls. She likes little boys too.” Cassandra said. “I wish you would talk more because I like the way you say things. Mama said you come from across the big ocean. I remember when Mama and I lived in New York we used to go to the docks where we could watch the water. Did you ride in a boat to get here? We use to see boats in the ocean too. I wanted to go on one. Mama says maybe someday we will.”

“We have big boats in the lake right here Cassandra.” said Iris.

“Not as big as the boats in the ocean. People have bedrooms on those boats and there are a lot of people. Maybe you can come with us when we go for a ride.”

“I don't like to ride on boats” came a little voice belonging to Alfie. “They are hot and smell funny.”

“We aren't suppose to talk about that Alfie. The bad man said we shouldn't.”

“You can tell us, Leah, we won't tell the bad man.”

“The bad man went into the water.”

“Hello, children. Are you having fun?” Nettie had entered the room.

“Leah, there is a nice man with Mr. Oscar. He would like to ask you and Alfie some questions. Do you think you could answer them for him?” asked Nettie.

“Miss Nettie, the bad man told Leah and Alfie they shouldn't talk about their secret,” said Cassandra.

“What shouldn't you talk about Leah? There aren't any bad men here. Only Mr. Bell. He is very nice. He has two little grandchildren about your age and he wants to help you find your mama and papa.”

Alfie began to cry. “He will hurt Mama if we tell anybody. I don't want my mama to be hurt like Miss Bridget.”

“How did he hurt Miss Bridget, Alfie.”

“He hit her on the head and she fell down.”

“Alfie may I ask Mr. Bell to come in and talk to you? You can tell him what you told me. It isn't a secret anymore.”

“Alright”

Lester Bell was a kind, middle aged man. He didn't look anything like one would think a private investigator would look like. He reached in his pocket and brought out a lolly pop for each one of the children in the room.

“You look like our grandpa. I miss him, don't you Leah?

“I'm sure your grandpa misses you too. I would miss my grandchildren if they left me.”

“Oh we didn't want to leave. Miss Bridget said we had to or the bad man would hurt our mama.”

Leah stood up. “We aren't suppose to tell anybody what happened to us but I think we are going to tell you because we miss the castle.” Leah looked at Nettie and Oscar. “We love you Miss Nettie and Mr. Oscar but we miss our mama and papa.”

“I know you love us Leah. We love you too but we do need to find your mama and papa. They must be very worried about you both. Now go ahead and tell Mr. Bell what happened to you.”

“Miss Bridget was our nanny but she went away to get married. We loved her but Mama said she was going to have her own family. Miss Juliet came to take care of us. She is nice too.

“One day we were playing outside by the fence. Miss Bridget came up to say hello to us. We were surprised and happy to see her.” Leah closed her eyes. She was trying to remember every detail.

“Hello, children.”

“Miss Bridget. Come here Alfie, Miss Bridget came to see us.”

“You'll have to be very quiet. We don't want your new nanny to know I'm here. It might hurt her feelings and we don't want to do that do we?”

“No Miss Bridget, we don't want to hurt her feelings at all.”

“I want you to unlock the gate and come with me. We will walk on the grounds so we don't disturb her.”

“We are not suppose to go out of the gate, but if you are with us it will be alright.”

“Your mama said you could go to my new house to visit me. We will have a tea party. Alfie, you don't have to have tea but I have some biscuits that you will like.”

“Shall we tell Miss Juliet we are going with you?”

“She already knows. Now let's hurry.”

Alfie spoke up, “Miss Bridget was nice to us but the bad man told us we better not cry or he'd hurt our mama. I didn't like him. Miss Nettie, do you think our mama is hurt? We haven't seen her in ever so long.”

“Alfie darlin', I hope and pray your mama and papa are safe. That is why it is so important for you to tell Mr. Bell everything you know about where you live and who your mama and papa are.” Nettie was relieved the children were beginning to open up after all this time. She felt sure they would be able to locate their parents very soon.

“Leah, I want to tell Mr. Bell where we live. I want to see Mama and Papa again. Please tell them Leah.”

Leah walked to the other side of the room. Iris and Cassandra followed her. “Leah, my mama said it's always better to tell the truth even if someone tells you not to. Mr. Bell really wants to find your mama and papa,” Cassandra said and Iris agreed.

Tears were running down Leah's cheeks. “Mama and Papa are at our home in London.” She told Mr. Bell exactly where the castle was. He thanked Leah for being such a big help and told Oscar he would get to work on it immediately.

Detective Hiram Rowntree knocked on the door of the castle outside of London. This time Philip Clarke opened the door himself without waiting for the butler to do so.

“Detective Rowntree. It's so good of you to come. My wife and I haven't been completely honest with you. Our children are missing. It happened the morning of the fifteenth of September. They were on the grounds playing. Miss Juliet, their nanny was watching them when someone came up behind her, covered her mouth and dragged her behind the bushes. She came running into the house some time after that with a large gash on the back of her head and the children had vanished. This note was left on the gate.”

He handed Detective Rowntree the note that read: Don't call the authorities or your children will die. You will be told where to leave the ransom.

“We never heard from them again. I know we waited too long to contact you but we were afraid they would harm our children. It has been so long now, we just hope it isn't too late to save them.”

The detective knew the chance of finding the children alive after almost two months was minimal at best. “I understand your fear, sir. I will need to ask you and your wife to remember even the slightest detail of that day and the days surrounding the abduction. I'll also need the full name and address of the nanny named Juliet. I assure you, Your Grace, I will do everything in my power to find your children.”

Hiram Rowntree was exasperated that these people would allow two months to go by before reporting their children missing. He reasoned that they lived almost like recluses in that big castle. The children had almost no contact with the outside world. Their grandparents were quite helpful to him. They told him it was not unusual for their daughter and the duke to stay close to home and they didn't think much about it when they hadn't seen their grandchildren in a couple of months. Their daughter had married the duke against their wishes. He was an odd young man. His parents died when he was a young boy and he had been raised by servants. His nanny didn't allow him to associate with any of the youngsters in the nearby village. She kept him secluded in the castle. He had always been a rather quiet fellow and was content to spend his time reading. It was decided he should take a wife. Minerva was chosen out of a dozen of the nearby village young women. Her parents felt the two loved each other and their children. They lived a quiet, secluded life behind the gates of the castle.

“Sir, this wire just came through and I thought you might be interested in seeing it. I know you are looking for a couple of youngsters,” one of the officers said as he handed the detective a paper with a picture of the two children on it.

“This says they are in the United States.” He read further only to discover the children had British accents and their home was in a castle outside of London. “Their names are Leah and Alfie and they are very much alive.”

Detective Rowntree couldn't wait to get to the castle. He had the two photos of Leah and Alfie in his hand. Philip opened the door to him with a very worried look on his face. “Have you found them?”

“Are these your children sir?” He handed the photographs to Philip.

“Yes, where are they? Are they still alive? Tell me where they are.”

“They are alive and well. They are in a township called Camden Corners in the United States.”

“Minerva come quickly. The children are safe. Thank you detective, how can we ever thank you? What has happened to them and how on earth did they get to the United States?”

Minerva looked at the pictures. “My babies, I must go to them. Are they really in the United States? Are they safe? We must leave immediately.”

“We will my dear, as soon as the detective tells us what he knows.”

“I have been in contact with a private investigator hired by a chap named Oscar Crowley. Mr. Crowley and his wife have been looking after the children. We can't be sure exactly what happened but it seems Miss Bridget Davies was either forced or willingly participated in their kidnapping. It would seem she and her beau, Stewart Hollander, planned to ask for ransom for the children but Miss Davies got cold feet. The children heard Miss Davies and Mr. Hollander arguing and then heard Miss Davies scream. They were locked in the bedroom in Miss Davies' flat. Mr. Hollander disposed of the body. He was afraid that someone might have seen him and changed his plan. He took the children with him as hostages in case he needed them and stowed away on a ship that was traveling to the United States. The children tell us Mr. Hollander was playing cards with some of the other stowaways. He must have been losing because Alfie heard him call one of the men a cheat. A fight broke out. The children watched from their hiding place as Stewart Hollander was thrown overboard. He had warned the children if they told anybody who they were or what they had seen, there mother and father would be murdered just like Miss Bridget had been.”

“Oh my poor babies. What an awful ordeal they have been through.”

“Ma'am, the investigator said they are in good hands. When they first arrived at the Crowley home they barely spoke. With the loving care they have received they felt comfortable enough to tell Mr. Bell where they came from. The Crowley's wanted me to tell you that you are welcome to stay in their home when you arrive to claim the children.”

“How can we ever thank you Detective Rowntree?”

“The look on your faces is all the thanks I need.”

The detective left the castle with a smile on his face. His investigations normally didn't turn out this well.

“Children, we have some wonderful news for you. Your mama and papa are on their way to the United States. They are safe and happy to know they will see you again.”

The children giggled and hugged Oscar and Nettie. “I knew you would find our mama and papa. Do you think we could all live with you. We don't want to leave you and Mr. Oscar.”

“Your home is in England and our home is here in Camden Corners. When your mama and papa arrive they will stay right here in the room next to yours. We won't talk about your leaving just yet.”

The children went along happily to play.

“Oscar, I just thought of something. We will have a house full of guests for Thanksgiving dinner when the Clarkes arrive. I wonder if they will be terribly offended by our celebration of an American holiday.”

“We can just hope they like turkey.”

Lost Love

Lost Love

Neville Merryweather sat in the chair by the window of the guest room of the house he grew up in. He had just finished reading the letter written to him by Helene Simpson Robinson, the mother of the son he never knew he had. How things would have been different if only she had told him the truth so many years ago. He had to admit, twenty years ago he wouldn't have defied his father. Neville was a weak man. He always had been and he was always afraid if he went against his father's wishes he would be stripped of all fringe benefits that came with being a Merryweather. As much as it pained him, he was grateful to Chester Robinson for raising James as his own. James would never carry the Merryweather name. It was a false family name to begin with. Neville would be the last of the Merryweathers and that was just as well. Neville reread Helene's letter.

Dear Neville,

I know this unexpected visit from our son will be a shock to you. I am sorry for the pain you are going through as you realize I kept the truth from you all these years. Believe me when I tell you that I have regretted that decision every day of my life.

Please be assured, Chester Robinson was the best father a boy could hope for. Chester loved James with all his heart and was committed to him from the beginning.

Neville, I don't know if I can ever make you understand why I kept this secret from you. What we did was a mistake. I loved you very much and I know you loved me but we were very different people. You needed a wife and mother to your children who would be by your side in the social situations that were always so important to you. I was not that woman. I was not born to that life and I'm not sure I would have been able to learn all the social graces that came naturally to you and your friends.

The announcement of your nuptials appeared in the newspaper just about the time I discovered I was in the family way. Even though I returned all your letters unopened, I was still heartbroken to learn of the marriage. Chester Robinson, a very dear friend of mine was the only person who knew of my dilemma. He offered to marry me and claim our child as his own.

Neville, I was in such a state. I wasn't sure what I was going to do. I didn't love Chester but didn't feel I had any choice. I felt I was being punished for my sinful behavior and I would have to pay the consequences.

As it turned out, Chester and I were married that very afternoon. Mama and Papa had always liked Chester and welcomed him into the family immediately. James was born 8 months later. He was a very tiny baby and everyone just assumed he had come early.

In time, I learned to love Chester. He was a kind and caring husband and adored James. As James grew older, Chester talked about telling him the truth about his parentage. I was against it from the start. Chester had been the only father James had ever known and I wanted to keep it that way for everyone's sake. I knew if James found out about you he would want to find you and my shameful secret would be revealed. Chester didn't concur but agreed to keep the secret.

Around this time a year ago, Chester fell ill. In time, he realized he was never going to get better. He had never betrayed me in all of our years together but in his deteriorating state, he told James the truth about you. I tried to convince James that it was the delirium that made Chester say those words but he didn't believe me. Your son had suspected something was amiss when he realized he looked nothing like the man he thought was his father.

After Chester's death, I begged James not to pursue the matter. He agreed but it kept eating away at him. He had a need to meet his birth father. I should have written to you to warn you but I was afraid of causing unrest in your home. I remembered you had come from Camden Corners and I assumed your sister still lived there. Again, I wasn't certain how well James would be received. I do hope you will treat him well. I can assure you he is not looking for any monetary benefits. He simply wants to meet his father. Sincerely, Helene Simpson Robinson

Neville read the letter over and over again. He knew Helene was right. She never would have been happy living in his world. It had taken him years to realize he wasn't happy living in that world himself. The best time of his life was the few months he and Helene were together when he attended school in Plattsburg.

Neville knew what he had to do. After a short rest and a filling meal, he announced he would be leaving that afternoon for home.

“I want to get this out in the open and I need to start by telling Prudence that James is my son and I want very much to be part of his life. That is if you feel the same way James.”

“Yes, Mr. Merryweather, err Neville. I would very much like to get to know you better. I don't wish to cause you or your family any distress though.”

“Prudence lives in constant distress” Millicent said quietly.

Neville glared at her but was in agreement.

“I'm not going to be dishonest with you son, Prudence will not be happy about this situation but she will have to accept it. I do think your sisters will be pleased to know they have a brother. The next train leaves in 20 minutes. I will return as soon as I can. Millicent, I hope you will keep my room open for me. I would like to spend some time with James upon my return.”

When Neville arrived home he entered the parlor where Prudence was sipping a glass of sherry. Neville was hoping the sherry would have a calming effect on her when he told her his news. Prudence accepted the news better than Neville anticipated. She excused herself to go to her room and that was when she dissolved into a heap on the floor. Prudence Wingate Merryweather was dead drunk.

Neville wasn't sure Prudence had even heard his confession. He carried her to her room and deposited her on her bed where her personal maid took over.

Melinda, the younger Merryweather daughter came bouncing in through the front door.

“Hello Papa, we thought you were on a business trip.”

“I came home sooner than expected. Is your sister with you? I have something I'd like to speak to you both about.”

“Melissa and Michael are smooching under the sycamore tree. Those two are revolting. Always kissing and hugging. I'm never going to get engaged if that is what you have to do.”

Neville laughed. “I think you will change your mind about that one of these days.”

Melissa walked in the door. “Hello Father, what's wrong? You look so serious.”

“I have something to tell you both, it's good news but it will be a surprise to you. I hope you think it's a good surprise because I'd like you to be happy about it.”

The girls listened intently as Neville explained the situation and how they had a brother they didn't know about all these years. Melissa thought it was the most romantic story she had ever heard. She cried for her father and his lost love. Melinda didn't quite understand how her father had a baby with another lady but she was happy she now had a big brother. They wanted to pack that very minute and leave for Camden Corners on the next train.

Neville told the maid to inform Mrs. Merryweather that the three of them were leaving to visit his sister for a few days. In Prudence's current state, he didn't think she would object.

Melissa asked if Michael could go along with them. After all, he would be part of the family soon. Neville agreed and the foursome boarded the train two hours later.

James was amazed that his father had been to Greensboro and back and brought his sisters with him. They were such pretty girls. It was difficult for him to keep his emotions under control. How nice it would have been to have watched these two young girls grow up. He and Michael Cassidy were instant friends. The girls both hugged him and welcomed them into their family. Millicent and Neville stood with their arms around each other watching the young people become acquainted.

“How did Prudence take the news?” Millicent whispered.

“I'm not really sure she even knows. My high society wife was as drunk as a skunk when I told her about James.”

“Oh my, Prudence always manages to surprise me.” laughed Millicent.

The sun was beginning to set as Neville relaxed in the parlor watching his three children talking and laughing as though they had known each other all their lives. He still was in a disbelief that this fine young man was his son. He wouldn't trade his daughters for anything in the world but he had longed for a son to complete the family. Prudence wouldn't hear of it. She cursed him both times she found herself in the family way and refused to even consider having another child. If it meant they would never again share a bed, so be it.

Addie had gone all out with the evening meal. She was thrilled to have two hungry young men to cook for. Millicent and her nieces helped set the table. Millicent had never learned to set a table or do any of the mundane chores before. She found she was enjoying giving a helping hand and was even known to wash a dish or two.

When the men were called to the table, James walked into the dining room smiling broadly, he picked up his wine glass.

“I'd like to make a toast to Aunt Millie for her hospitality and arranging for me to meet my family.”

The group stared at James with their mouths open wide when he referred to his aunt as Millie. They then glanced in Millicent's direction.

“Thank you James dear. No one has ever called me Millie before. I like it. It sounds so much friendlier than Millicent. Don't you think Addie? Yes, I would like to be called Millie from now on.”

From that moment on Millicent Merryweather Stout was known simply as Millie Stout. Her new name suited her well because she was no longer the rich lady who lived in a mansion on a hill. She was everyone's friend and neighbor.

“Oh Aunt Millie” said Melinda as the two were saying goodnight. “I don't want this day to ever end. It has been so wonderful meeting our brother. Father says we have to leave tomorrow morning. I wish we could just move to Camden Corners but mother would never leave all her snooty friends.”

“I know dear but you have a life in Greensboro too. I know you love Michael's family. They would miss you both if you moved out of town. I'm hoping James will stay on for a while and it is a short train ride from Greensboro.”

The next morning the visitors returned to Greensboro with a promise of a return the following weekend. They would bring their skis and take advantage of the late winter snowfall in the hills of Camden Corners.

“Are you sure Aunt Millie? You have been so kind to me I don't want to burden you and Addie.”

“Don't be silly my boy. It has been a pleasure having a young person around this old house. You are welcome to stay as long as you wish. Now, you and Cody go off and meet April and her friend and have a good time.”

Cody Hill was waiting for James. Word had gotten around town that there was a new fellow in town, like any newcomer he wouldn't be a stranger for long.

Back in Albany, Helene Robinson was holding the telegram that arrived an hour ago. James was going to be staying in Camden Corners for a while. He wanted to get to know his new family better. Helene was happy he hadn't been rejected but suddenly felt very alone and lonely.

Hello, Son

 

Hello, Son

James Robinson sat fidgeting on the sofa in Millicent's parlor. Addie was attempting to occupy him with chatter about the town of Camden Corners. Addie was nervous too. Her friend, Millicent was meeting the train that was carrying Neville Merryweather to meet his son for the very first time. Neville was in for the shock of his life when he received a telegram from his sister informing him his encounter with Helene had resulted in the birth of a child over twenty years ago. Although James would have preferred to join his aunt at the train station, he understood it would be better if the meeting took place in the privacy of the Merryweather home.

Neville hadn't told his family why he was visiting Camden Corners. He didn't know how he was going to tell Prudence that he had another child. He was worried too about the reaction of his daughters. What would they think of their father's behavior. Granted he had never known about the boy. He also was angry that Helene had found it necessary to keep this information from him. He still loved Helene after all these years. She was never far from his mind. He thought back to the time when they met and fell in love.

Neville was sent to Plattsburg University near the beginning of his senior year in college. From the beginning of his first year in Yale, he struggled to pass his classes since he spent most of his time with his fraternity brothers carousing at the local pubs. Neville had inherited the charm of his father and grandfather before him. He was able to persuade his professors to give him the benefit of the the doubt and pass him along each year. He was successful until he met up with Professor Helmut Kline. Professor Kline had his fill of offspring of the rich who sailed through college and were ill prepared to face the real world outside of the hallowed halls of his beloved University. Neville made the mistake of paying one of his classmates to complete an assignment. Professor Kline discovered the deception and Neville was expelled that very day.

It was only through a hefty donation to the university in Plattsburg by Cyrus Merryweather that Neville was allowed to finish his education there. He had only been attending the school for three days when he happened to pass by a small sandwich shop. He realized he had skimped on breakfast and he was feeling quite hungry. He entered the shop and sat at the counter when a lovely young girl handed him a menu. She smiled at him and he smiled back. Later when he thought about their first encounter, he was sure he had fallen in love that very moment.

Helene Simpson was in her third year at Plattsburg. She was studying to be a librarian and had taken a job at the coffee shop to help with the cost of her education. Helene was a good student. She couldn't imagine anyone not giving their best efforts in their studies. Helene was the first in her family to attend college and she knew the sacrifice her parents had made in order for her to further her education.

Helene was like no other girl Neville had ever met. She was a beauty but more than that she seemed to have a head on her shoulders and knew there were more important things in life than the next party or frivolous flirtation. Helene was attracted to Neville but knew he was in a different social class than she was. As improbable as their friendship was it developed until they became inseparable. Helene was a good influence on Neville. He began studying as he had never done before. He graduated with excellent grades that spring.

Neville was anticipating his parents' arrival in Plattsburg for the graduation ceremony and was anxious for them to meet Helene. He had planned to propose to her the night of his graduation. Cyrus Merryweather was appalled that a son of his would even consider marrying below his station.

“Why the girl's father is a shopkeeper. What are you thinking, Neville?”

It had never occurred to Neville that his father wouldn't approve of Helene. She had made him happier than he had ever been since the day he'd met her at the diner.

Helene had misgivings about their relationship. She was well aware of the difference in their upbringing. Her parents were loving, kind people who did their best to provide for their family but were not in the the same league as the Merryweathers. As much as it broke her heart, she told Neville he should return home with his parents and forget about her.

Neville was never the same after he left Plattsburg. He didn't think he would ever forgive himself for running away from the girl he loved.

Several years later his father arranged his marriage to Prudence. He never loved her but it was expected that he would marry and produce sons to carry on the Merryweather name. How ironic, Neville thought as the train pulled into the station, my only son is not carrying the Merryweather name after all.

Neville was surprised to see a sign in front of his old homestead reading open for business. He would have to question Millicent about it but for now he had other things on his mind.

One look at James Robinson and he knew he was indeed his son. He could see himself and his father in the young man's face. He could also see a trace of Helene and his heart ached at the thought of her.

It was an awkward moment. The father and son had no idea what to say to each other. Neville wanted to embrace his boy but was afraid he would be rejected.

Finally, he blurted out “How is your mother?”

What a ridiculous thing to say, he thought. How would she be after losing her husband and having her son questioning his paternity.

“Mother is doing well, sir. She sends her regards.”

“Her regards? What was she thinking? Why didn't she send her regards twenty years ago when she knew she was having my baby?”

Millicent put her arm on Neville's shoulder to calm him.

“I'm sorry, James. None of this is your fault. I just don't understand why I never knew about you.”

James handed his father an envelope. “Mother wanted me to give this to you. It's her attempt to explain.”

Neville took the envelope from his son's hand.

“I think we could all use a little brandy” Millicent said as an uncomfortable Leo excused himself to pour a glass for everyone including himself and Addie.

Neville put Helene's letter in his jacket pocket. He wanted to read it when he was alone. He could smell her delicate perfume lingering on the envelope and thought of their time together so many years ago.

James was interested in his sisters. He wanted very much to meet them but would understand if Neville didn't want to share the news of his existence with his legitimate daughters. Neville immediately reassured his son that he was now part of the Merryweather family and would never be hidden away again. Neville wasn't too sure what Prudence would have to say about that but he didn't care. He lost years with his son and he would make up for that loss in any way possible.

After a few hours, Neville finally realized what he had seen when he walked through the front door of his old home.

“What in the name of Sam Hill have you done to our house, Millicent?”

“Neville, I thought you wouldn't notice. Don't get upset but I simply don't have the money to keep this old place running. It was either turn it into something useful or let it go on the auction block.”

“Why didn't you come to me if you needed money? You know I would be glad to help you with the expenses.”

“Don't you see Neville, I needed to find a purpose in life. For years I have been living up on this hill and never really belonged to the community of Camden Corners. Oh, I know I have lived here all my life, but we Merryweathers always stood apart from everyone else. Papa flaunted his money and taught us to expect to be treated as though we were something special. Well, for the first time in my life I do feel special. Not because I'm above the rest of the town but because I'm working along side them. I have friends, Neville and I'm enjoying my life.

“Millicent, I'm proud of you. We both should have learned that lesson years ago. I ruined my own life because of snobbishness and almost ruined my daughter's chance for happiness because of it too.”

“How are Melanie and Michael?” Millicent asked

“They are doing well. Melanie spends more time with the Cassidy family than she does with her own and I don't blame her. Our household isn't a happy one. Prudence takes to her bed at least three times a week. She has been pouting since Hermione retired.”

“Hermione had been in Neville's household since the day he and Prudence were married. She is the reason Melanie and Melinda turned out as well as they did. She practically raised them single handedly.” said Millicent

“Now Millicent, don't start on Prudence. My sister never did have anything good to say about my wife.” Neville explained

Millicent was tempted to list the many flaws of Prudence but decided now was not the time.

Addie and Leo excused themselves to the kitchen to create a special meal for the guests. Millicent headed upstairs with Neville to prepare one of the guest rooms for his stay. James needed to get his thoughts together.

“I hope you won't mind, Mr. Merryweather,” said James. “I think I will take a walk around the village to clear my head. I'd like to see more of Camden Corners I honestly didn't notice my surroundings when I was looking for this house.”

“Of course I don't mind James. As much as I would like to hear you call me Father, I understand your reluctance to do so but I wish you would call me Neville.”

James smiled at this man who he knew would be important in his future. He liked Neville Merryweather. He could understand why his mother had fallen for the guy. He felt sadness that they had never been a family but was also grateful for Chester Robinson's love and caring through the years.

James walked leisurely through Camden Corners. He had heard of small town hospitality but had never experienced it first hand. He was surprised at the number of people who called hello to him.

Diana Taylor was setting out a plate of cookies for the children. “Would you like a sugar cookie young man? They are still warm from the oven.”

Rudy, the Pringle's dog wagged his tale and licked James' hand when he petted the top of his head. He walked by the antique shop and wondered if Aunt Millicent was in competition with them. At that moment, Nettie Crowley walked down the stairs.

“Hello young man. Are you visiting our town today? Oh my, you must be a relative of Millicent Merryweather, there is definitely a family resemblance. I didn't realize she had a nephew.”

James wasn't quite sure what to say to this very observant woman. “I'm just passing through ma'am. I do like your town and the people seem very nice.” James said trying to change the subject. Nettie took the hint and scolded herself for prying. She had a tendency to make everyone's business her own.

“Enjoy your stay in Camden Corners young man. Make sure you visit the candy shop across the street before you leave. Maddie Mackenzie makes the best double chocolate toffee fudge you have ever tasted.”

“I'll do that ma'am, thank you.” He tipped his hat to her and continued his walk. Mother would love this town he thought to himself. I think she would fit right in here.

Alone in the guest room, Neville opened the letter. His heart skipped a beat as he began to read.

Murder in Greensboro

 

Murder in Greensboro

Everyone gasped when Sheriff Daniels stood at the door of the Clear Lake cabin and announced Oscar Crowley was under arrest for the murder of Marlin Cooper.

“I'm going with you,” cried Nettie

“Sorry ma'am. This is official business and you will not be allowed to ride with Mr. Crowley. You may follow us to the police station and wait to see him until after we complete our investigation.”

“Nettie, darling. Go back home with Jonas. Tell Richard and Robert what is happening and have one of them meet me in Greensboro. There has been a huge misunderstanding. I want you to go home and wait for me. I'm sure I will be there before dinner tonight. Jonas please take Nettie back to Camden Corners.”

Off the sheriff went with his prisoner in tow. Nettie and her friends were watching in disbelief as Oscar was hauled away like a common criminal.

Jonas said “Let's get back to Camden Corners right away. The best way we can help Oscar is to let his sons know what is going on.”

The ride back to town was a somber one. Not anything like the trip to the cabin just the previous morning when they were laughing and singing. Nettie couldn't understand why that sheriff would even consider her Oscar could do such a thing.

They finally arrived in Camden Corners and went directly to the law office. Robert was standing at the doorway.

“We know father was arrested. Richard is already on his way there. I was waiting for Nettie to return. We knew she would want to go with me to Greensboro. Polly is at your place, Nettie. She is packing an overnight bag for you. Emma is taking care of Faith for a few days. Polly will be joining us also.

“Of course she will. In my state of mind I have only been thinking of Oscar. I haven't even considered the fact that Polly's father is dead. I'm sure she has mixed feelings about him but he was her father. Robert, why on earth would they think Oscar of all people would have anything to do with a murder? It's absurd.”

“I don't know what led them to Father. The sheriff showed up at your house early this morning he handed the housekeeper a search warrant. She didn't know what to do and rushed to our house very distraught. The sheriff found a bloody knife tucked in the seat of Father's carriage. Robert and I are sure someone planted it there when Father was in Greensboro the other day. Unfortunately, he was spotted at the hospital talking with Mrs. Cooper. He didn't mention going into the room to see Marlin and I can't imagine that he did. The sheriff referred to an anonymous tip. Nothing adds up here. We know Oscar Crowley is incapable of murder. We will get to the bottom of this Nettie, I promise you.”

Polly was anxious to arrive in Greensboro. The trip seemed to take longer than usual and the snow packed roads didn't help. Nettie held her hand trying to calm her but Nettie was upset herself.

“Paw was a mean husband and horrible father Nettie, but he was my father. I can't help but wonder what in his life made him the way he was. I have a hard time believing a man can be born evil. I won't be shedding a tear for him but I am concerned about Mama. I know she has all but abandoned the children and now with Paw gone I don't know how she will cope with the loss. The Prestons have been a godsend to our family. I can't imagine what would have happened to the children without money to buy food or clothing. I feel so guilty about living in such a happy home with you and Oscar while my siblings were suffering so.”

“Polly, don't be so harsh toward yourself. You were told not to come home or to try to see the children. There was nothing you could do for them. Gladys Preston told me your little sister, Ginny has started calling her mama. The other children are all happy and healthy. We will make sure your mama is taken care of. She may need some rest you know. There is a small home just outside of Greensboro that helps people who are distraught. Oscar visited the home when he was in Greensboro the other day. He was very impressed with the caregivers there. I know he'd planned to discuss it with you. It may be where your mama needs to be for a while.”

When they arrived in Greensboro, Polly went directly to the Preston house. The children were happy to see their big sister again. They were adjusting well to the news of Paw's death but were worried about their mother. Gladys told her Alice was still sitting in the waiting room of the hospital. She didn't seem to understand that her husband was dead. The nurses were willing to let her stay until Polly arrived in town but something had to be done soon. Polly was the oldest and therefore had the authority to have her mother placed in the home Oscar had been to a few days ago. Arthur accompanied Polly and Gretchen to the hospital. Their mother was still sitting on the sofa in the waiting room.

“Mama” Polly said tearfully, “It's Polly.”

There was no response. The frail woman was staring into space. Polly and Gretchen agreed that she would not be able to go back to the family home. Alice was taken out of the hospital and escorted to the rehabilitation home as both girls held each other and cried for their mama.

Polly left her sister and Arthur promising to return to the Preston house in time for supper. She needed to be with Nettie as she waited to hear word of Oscar.

Richard finally came out of the interrogation room. “There isn't much to tell. Father is doing well. He is more worried about you Nettie than he is about his situation. He will mostly likely be staying the night in a jail cell. I think the district attorney has a vendetta against Father because of a case he tried here a few years ago. He made a fool of him and he is still carrying a grudge.”

Robert spoke up, “They aren't going to let you see Father tonight. He insists we register you and Polly at the hotel on Main Street for the night. We will escort you to the Preston house where you are expected for supper and Arthur will make sure you arrive safely at the hotel later this evening. Richard and I have a bit of investigating to do. We will meet you at the hotel and fill you in on what we find.”

Reluctantly, Nettie agreed to the plan. She didn't want Oscar worrying about her so she did as he asked.

The children were relieved their mama was going to be well taken care of. Polly spoke privately with the older children. Their house would have to be sold to pay for their mother's room and care. Oscar Crowley had set up a trust fund for Alice but Polly refused to allow him to shoulder the expense of caring for her mother. The children were all in agreement. The house had been filled with nothing but unpleasant memories for several years. They were happy they would be able to stay with the Prestons.

Oscar told his sons everything he could remember about his time in Greensboro. His first stop was to the Preston house. He was assured the children were happy living with Gladys and Arthur. One by one the children all arrived home from school. They had all put on weight since Polly's wedding just a couple of weeks ago. It was obvious they were being well taken care of. While Oscar was there Danny Mackenzie came calling for Gretchen. It was unmistakable the boy was smitten and Gretchen couldn't keep the smile off her face. Oscar was happy for her. She couldn't ask for a nicer family to be a part of. Gladys said she was was worried about Alice. She had been to see her just yesterday. The woman just sits in the waiting room until the nurse tells her it's time to visit with Marlin. She doesn't seem to be aware of her surroundings. Gladys mentioned the home in town. I would much rather see her in a place like that rather than an asylum. I have spoken with the director and she said they have had people like Alice and with time they have been able to come back to the living. Oscar's next stop was to the hospital. He sat with Alice for a while but she didn't respond to him. There were many people in and out of the area but he did remember seeing a disheveled looking gentlemen entering Marlin's room. The man didn't stay for long and had his head turned but Oscar recalled seeing that face somewhere before. He'd left his carriage in front of the hospital. He remembered the valet telling him a gentleman was getting very close to his carriage and he approached the man and asked if he could help him. He told him no, he was just admiring the carriage. When he described him, Oscar thought it sounded very much like the fellow he had seen coming out of Marlin's room. He left to tour the home that had been recommended for Alice and spoke with the director and caregivers. He met Cody Hill who had just finished his classes at the university for an early supper and then left for home.

The sheriff was much more cooperative than the district attorney. He told the Crowleys a messenger had dropped off an envelope with a torn piece of paper in it with the words. Oscar Crowley is a killer. Look in his carriage. We had to investigate because it was a known fact that your father was in the hospital just before Marlin Cooper was found stabbed to death. Sheriff Daniels thought the whole thing seemed fishy but the DA insisted we go after Oscar.

The Crowleys examined the paper and determined it had probably come from butcher paper that was used to cover tables in some of the less than desirable watering holes. They knew Marlin had frequented Shaky's Bar and headed there to see if they could find any evidence of the torn paper.

The lights were dim in the dingy little bar. The Crowley brothers realized they were out of place in their natty suits and overcoats. All heads turned when the two men walked through the doors.

“What can I get ya?” the bartender grumbled.

“A couple of beers and a little information” Richard said “Our old man is in jail accused of murdering Marlin Cooper. Anybody in here know anything about that?”

A squirrely little man started toward the back door. Robert went after him and caught him by the collar of his frayed jacket.

“Come on pal. Let me buy you a drink. Come sit down with my brother and me. We want to ask you a few questions.”

“Hey, stop disturbing the customers. If your father did off Marlin Cooper he should be given a medal. Benjy, tell these blokes to leave you alone.”

Benjy felt his knees go weak. A drink sounded awfully good and with these guys buyin' he was gonna get himself a double shot of the best bourbon in the joint.

“Don't know nothin' about no murder but I'll take that drink.”

After Benjy downed the drink in one swallow Richard said “Tasted pretty good huh Benjy? How would you like another?”

Benjy nodded his head and thought he must have died and gone to heaven.

“We'll get you another one Benjy as soon as you tell us what you know about Marlin Cooper and how he died.”

Benjy thought for a minute. It really wasn't his fault Marlin was dead. It was self defense after all. His mouth was watering for another shot, this time he'd order a triple.

“I'll tell ya what happened. Marlin is a pal of mine. We were in the pokey together. They said I was a vagrant just because I was sleepin' in the alley. I'm no vagrant. I have a home. I was just too tired to walk there that night. Marlin was madder than a pistol when he was in that jail cell. He said he was goin' to go to some little town down the road and wring the neck of somebody named Polly. Then he said he'd do the same thing to Oscar Crowley. I remembered a fellow named Oscar Crowley. He was a friend of Judge Martin. I like the judge. He always put two bits in my hat when I was just sitting and resting by the court house. I used to see him with Oscar Crowley too. I knew Mr. Crowley because of the time I had a really awful belly ache. Mr. Crowley stopped when he saw me and asked if he could help. Everybody else just passed me by. Mr. Crowley took me to the hospital and they fixed me up good. This pretty little nurse told me Mr. Crowley paid the doctor to help me feel better. Now I'm feelin' kinda low 'cause of what I did. He didn't deserve to be blamed for Marlin bein' dead.

When I got outta the pokey a few days later I went to see Marlin. I thought he was my friend but boy was I wrong there. He gave me a knife that he had swiped from somewhere. It wasn't a very big knife so I guess he could hide it pretty easy. He said the nurse told him Oscar Crowley was out in the visitor's room with his wife. He said he was tired of the woman 'cause she was always cryin' about somethin'. He told me to go out there and stick the knife into his wife's heart and then yell that Mr. Crowley killed her. Oh yeah I was suppose to hide the knife in the sofa. I told Marlin I ain't never killed nobody before and I didn't want to do it. He started yellin' at me and called me all kinds a names and then he started laughin' at me sayin' I was a yellow bellied coward. I just wanted him to stop. My paw always called me a coward just before he took his belt to me. I had that knife in my hand and before I knew what was happening, I had shoved that knife deep into Marlin Cooper's belly. I'll never forget the look on his face when he realized I wasn't a coward after all.

I walked out of the hospital and saw a swell lookin' carriage there. The doorman asked what I was doin' near Mr. Crowley's carriage. It was like I wasn't good enough to stand by a fancy carriage. When he turned his head I stuck the knife in between the seats. When I got here to Shaky's, I started wonderin' if maybe somebody saw me in Marlin's room. That was when I wrote that note about Mr. Crowley bein' a murderer.”

Robert brought the anticipated shot of bourbon to Benjy. “It's a triple, just like you wanted Benjy.” It would be the last drop of bourbon Benjy would enjoy for a long, long time.

After telling the sheriff his story, Oscar was released immediately. On his way out of the jail, he told Benjy he would arrange to have one of his friends represent him. Oscar knew what kind of a man Marlin Cooper could be and that he was capable of angering someone to the point of murder. He knew he would be sentenced to a prison term but a good defense lawyer should be able to shorten the term. He also was hopeful Benjy would be able to get some help with his drinking problem. He really wasn't a bad guy.

Arthur Preston walked Nettie and Polly through the doors of the hotel. They looked up to see Oscar waiting for them with his arms wide open.

Polly listened silently as Oscar repeated Benjy's confession to the murder of her father, Marlin Cooper. Tears were streaming down her cheeks at the thought of her father's intent to kill her mother. She knew he was an evil man but this was too much even for him.

“I can't believe Paw would go so far as to have my mama killed.”

Oscar put his arm around her. “Polly dear, it's true your paw was not a kind man by any stretch of the imagination but from what the doctors told Robert and Richard he was also a very sick man. There was nothing that could be done for him to make him well. The medicine he was given to relieve the pain most likely affected his reasoning. Since he considered me the enemy and heard that I was with your mama he thought of her as the enemy too.”

Polly cried in Nettie's arms. She cried for her father who she hoped had found the peace in death that he never had in life. She cried for her mother who lost her spirit but with the help she would be getting had a chance to find it again. She cried for her siblings who lost one set of parents but had a chance for a full and happy life thanks to the Prestons. She then thought of her new husband Randy and her precious Faith and the love she felt from these two wonderful people who sat beside her. The tears stopped and she was able to smile again.

The next morning after a brief stop at the Preston household to say goodbye to the children, the group headed towards Camden Corners. It would be so good to be home.

Oscar's incarceration had been the talk of the town and everyone was relieved when he arrived back home

Josie Blackburn's editorial was a demand for the firing of the district attorney. She talked about the vendetta he had against Oscar and how he'd forced the sheriff to arrest an innocent man. Anyone who knew Oscar Crowley knew he would never commit murder and even if he did he wouldn't be dumb enough to hide the murder weapon in his own carriage. Arthur Preston reprinted Josie's editorial in the Greensboro News and the following week it was announced that the mayor had appointed a new district attorney.