Cassandra's New Baby

Cassandra's New Baby

“Will our new baby be here today, Mama?”

Cassandra Rossi has having a difficult time understanding why her baby was taking so long to be born. Unfortunately she heard her mama talking to Diana Taylor about her suspicions at the very first sign of her pregnancy. Over eight months was a long time for a little girl to wait for the birth of her brother or sister.

“I don't know Cassandra but I don't think it will be too much longer. Come sit down and eat your oatmeal, I put butter and cream on top for you.”

Lucinda's pregnancy had been so different this time around. She felt bigger and more uncomfortable. Maybe she had just forgotten since it had been close to seven years since her last experience. She looked at Cassandra and remembered when she was born. She remembered how nervous Paul was about holding his daughter. He was used to being around children because he grew up in an orphanage but he was never around the babies, especially when they were this tiny. Those were happy days. Lucinda thought they would go on forever. She still felt sadness when she thought of her life with Paul. It seemed so long ago that she was having a hard time picturing his face.

“You are lost in thought this morning.” came the booming voice of her husband, Nick.

“I guess I am. I was thinking back to when this little missy was born. Nice memories but sad too.”

Nick squeezed his wife's hand. He understood how Lucinda felt about her first husband, Paul. Nick didn't resent the fact that he was still a part of her life if only in memory. They had grown up together in the orphanage and had been best friends until his murder several years ago. He helped to keep Cassandra's memories of her Papa Paul alive too. Nick would be forever grateful to the man he never knew for bringing this amazing child into the world.

“Other than nostalgic, how are you feeling?”

“Like Wally Wallace's prize cow! I'm getting as impatient as Cassandra to hold this little squirt in my arms.”

Cassandra giggled. “You don't look like a cow, Mama.”

“Maybe we should get her a bale of hay and a cow bell,” laughed Nick.

“Quiet you two. It's bad enough to feel this way, I don't need your teasing me too.” Lucinda's laugh turned to a grimace.

“Are you alright?” Nick jumped out of his chair.

“I'm fine, I think I just had a labor pain.” with that another followed and then again and again.

“Cassandra, run down to Kenny's house and ask him to get Doc Julie. Darn it, we need better phone service in this town.”

“Watch your language Nick. You're going to be a papa very soon and I don't want you teaching our children words like that.”

“It could have been a lot worse,” said Nick

“I know and I might be using some choice ones myself before the day is out.” Lucinda said as she doubled over in pain.

Doc Julie arrived along with Caroline, within a half hour.

“Lucinda I don't think we have time to get you to the hospital. I do believe this little Rossi is about to arrive.”

“You and Josie Blackburn certainly don't waste any time delivering your babies,” said Caroline who had her own little one only two months before.

Nick took Cassandra by the hand and walked out into the yard. He didn't want her to be frightened for her mother if Lucinda let out a scream. His wife was a trooper though and suffered silently. As much as she would like to have yelped and used some of those colorful words she and Nick talked about, she didn't want to frighten Cassandra either. It wasn't long until Caroline walked out of the house and said come meet Daniel Nicola Rossi.

“It's a boy!” shouted Nick and Cassandra in unison as they ran into the house to meet the newest member of the family.

Daniel wasn't concerned with being silent.

Cassandra looked down at her little brother and said. “Doesn't he like us Mama? He is crying so hard.”

“I think he likes us just fine. Little babies cry. You did the same thing when you were born and you like us, don't you?”

“Yes Mama, I like you a lot. Hello Danny, I'm your sister and my name is Cassandra. I'm going to help Mama take care of you. She said I could fetch your diapers and help with your bath.”

Little Danny's crying stopped. “You have helped your mama already, Cassandra. Your brother must like the sound of your voice because he isn't crying anymore,” said Caroline.

The anticipation was high for the Independence Day parade. Lou Rossi would be marching in the parade and carrying the United States flag. He and Anna had become United States citizens and were celebrating the birthday of their new country.

Babies were in abundance at the parade. It was early enough in the day that it wasn't too hot for them. Anna Rossi was enjoying being a grandmother to Daniel. She was a frequent visitor to Nick and Lucinda's home. Lou had more fun with the older children although he enjoyed watching his wife with the littlest Rossi.

The day was a happy one with picnics in the afternoon and fireworks after dark. The talk was about the circus coming to town the following week. This was the first time the troupe would be setting up the big top in Camden Corners. Mayor Horton had been instrumental in their decision to stop in the village this year.

The circus train pulled into town on schedule. Practically the whole town came out to welcome them to Camden Corners.

Billy and Butch Duesenberry remembered seeing circuses setting up before. It was one of the rare times in their former lives that they enjoyed being on their own. Circus people were always friendly to them and never shooed them away. They were always allowed to watch the circus performances from behind the curtain.

“Pa, may Butch and I watch them set up the big tent after we finish our chores this morning?” said Billy who always remembered to ask permission before he and Butch set out for any adventure.

“If your beds are made and your clothes put away you may go just as soon as you help Grandma Alma with the dishes from breakfast.” said Will.

“Let the boys go, Will. I'll help Alma with the dishes.” said Melvin Tanner, Alma's new husband.

Billy and Butch finished their breakfast in record time. They kissed their mother and grandmother goodbye and were off down the street stopping by Kenny Bentley's on the way. Kenny was waiting for them on the porch and yelled goodbye to his family inside.

Billy and Butch had been adopted by Will and Kate Duesenberry the previous year. The boys were not related to each other but had been the only family either had ever known. Neither boy could remember their mothers or if they were ever part of a family. They had both been abandoned at some time in their young lives. They jumped off a train in Camden Corners after being caught stowing away. Will and Kate happened along just at that moment. Will was the vicar of the local church and a confirmed bachelor until he met Kate his housekeeper's granddaughter. They married, adopted Billy and Butch and were expecting a baby at the end of the month.

Kenny had never seen a circus before and was fascinated with the elephants. The elephant handler was always happy to show his visitors around. He found that boys usually wanted to help walk the animals and he was glad to share his workload.

Butch's favorite were the clowns. He sought them out and happened upon one clown who they called Chuckles. Chuckles loved the circus himself and loved to talk. Butch happened upon him as he was practicing his act. Chuckles was glad to have an audience and loved the sound of the boy's laughter as he performed his silly tricks. He showed Butch some of his magic tricks and even taught him one or two.

Butch was a chatterbox and today was no exception. He told Chuckles all about his and Billy's life before they came to Camden Corners and were adopted. Chuckles listened to every detail because he had been a homeless boy too. He told Butch how lucky he was to have found people to take him in and love him because Chuckles never did find a home until he joined the circus when he was 15 years old. As Butch and Chuckles talked, they didn't notice Anton Hamlin lurking in the background taking in every word that came out of Butch's mouth.

After saying goodbye to Chuckles, Butch went off to find Billy and Kenny. He knew Billy would be where the elephants were and walked to that area with Anton following discreetly behind him. Anton took one look at Billy and a plan was forming in his mind.

Anton Hamlin was a trapeze artist. He had been performing for 25 years and was not as quick and agile as he once was. He was a conniver who knew eventually one of his schemes would pay off and he would be able to retire in luxury. He was interested in Butch's history and knew there had to be money in there someplace. Once he saw Billy he knew he was about to strike it rich. He needed Marzetta to go along with his plan. She wanted the good life too and best of all, she wanted Anton.

“Marzetta, drop whatever it is you are doing. I want you to listen carefully. There is a young boy out there that could be your son. I want you to tell him you are his long lost mother. Tell him your precious baby was stolen from his crib when he was just a few months old. You have been looking for him all these years. He looks to be about 12 years old. See if you can figure out his age and give him a date he was born. From the story Butch told. The kid wouldn't have any idea when his birthday is.”

“Anton, how can I be his mother? I have never had a kid.”

“I know that, stupid. You are just going to tell him that you are his mother and then we will be able to get money out of his folks. They will want to keep him and will gladly pay us what we ask. Don't you see? It's a perfect plan.”

“Don't call me stupid Anton. I'm not stupid. I'm just as smart as you are.”

“Yeah, alright. You aren't stupid. Just do what I say.”

“But Anton. I can't be that kid's mother. I'm not a married lady.”

Anton was getting frustrated. He wanted to shake this idiot woman. He could taste the money this scheme would bring his way but he'd have to deal with Marzetta and it wasn't going to be easy.”

“I'll tell you what. If you can pull this off, I'll marry you.”

“Anton do you mean it? We can get married. I'll do anything you say.”

After going over the plan again and again with Marzetta, Anton thought she was convinced this kid was really her son. She wasn't too bright but she was a fairly decent actress and the kid was a dead ringer for her. He sent her on her way with his fingers crossed.

Marzetta leisurely strolled over to the elephant stall. She never did like those smelly, wrinkled things. They frightened her but she would just have to fight her fear. Anton was going to marry her and that was all she cared about.

She spotted him. Anton was right he looked like he could have been her son. What was the name Anton told her to call him? She couldn't remember. Oh well, she thought Philippe was a wonderful name. Yes, her son would be called Philippe.

Billy was still making friends with the baby elephant when he suddenly felt someone grab him and squeeze him tightly yelling “Phillipe! Phillipe! My long lost son. I have finally found you.”

Anton was cringing in the corner. She was laying it on a little too thick. She needed more practice.

“Billy! That lady looks just like you.” shouted Butch.

Showtime

 

Showtime

Ernie Black walked to the Harvey house renovation site with a bounce in his step. Reggie saw him from the front step.

“Ernie, I take it your engagement was a success last night”

“Hello boss, you can say that again. Beverly is the greatest. I haven't had that much fun in years. As a matter of fact I have never had that much fun.”

The other fellows joked and teased him. Everyone liked Ernie and they were glad he was coming out of his shell. They envied him a little too. Beverly Mills was a quite the feather in Ernie's cap.

Ernie was surprised when he looked up and saw Beverly walking by on her way to rehearsal at the Opera House.

“Hi Ernie, I had a wonderful time last night. I hope you will be coming by the Opera House on your lunch break. Nettie packed a lunch for me and there is more than enough for two.”

Ernie didn't show any shyness at all as he walked towards Beverly and whispered in her ear. She giggled and they parted.

“Hi boys!” She yelled out to the men who were staring at the twosome in disbelief. Was this Ernie Black, the man who wouldn't even look in a woman's direction? They all patted him on the back as he climbed the porch steps with a smile on his face.

Jack Mackenzie was busy putting the finishing touches on the scenery backgrounds. His brother Mack was helping him with the painting and was doing quite well. Mack enjoyed painting. He found it relaxed him after a busy day at the Pub. He wasn't interested in making it his profession like his brother but he did have talent.

Today was the first dress rehearsal. Betsy Wallace was getting nervous that she would forget her lines.

“Beverly, I don't know why I ever agreed to do this. Sarah has written a beautiful play and I will just ruin the part of Hannah if I look out into that crowd and freeze. Have you ever felt like this?”

“Every time I step out on that stage. Pick out someone in the audience that you know and just play to that one person. I'd say play to that cute Charlie Wentworth but since he is my hateful, nasty husband, I guess that won't be possible. I have never seen such a nice fellow portray a devil so well.”

“Max told him to think of his father's business associates and act like them. From that moment on he had the part down pat. Thanks for the advice, I will find my Grandmother, Bess. She will think I'm wonderful even if I do forget my lines. How was your dinner with Ernie last night?”

“Ernie is the greatest. I can't believe the change in him. Maria Marino asked me to sing and it turns out Ernie knows how to play the piano. He played and I sang. We were quite the duo. After dinner we walked by the lake and he kissed me.” She whispered. “He'll be stopping by for lunch. I just saw him on my way here and I miss him already. I know I sound like a silly schoolgirl but I have never felt this way before.”

“Oh Beverly, I think it's wonderful. Isn't it grand to be in love?”

“Yes it is.” Charlie said as he came up behind Betsy. “How are you doing this morning? Still nervous?

“Not so much anymore. Beverly gave me a hint about the crowd. I'll pretend Grandma Bess is the only person in the audience and I won't be so nervous.”

“That's not such a bad idea. I think I'll look for Grandpa Wally.

Grandma Bess and Grandpa Wally had a farm outside of town. Charlie, who initially called himself Charlie Brent went to work for them as a farmhand. Although Charlie was a good worker, Wally knew he had never worked on a farm before. The truth was he had escaped his father's wrath after he told him he refused to take over the family business and marry the daughter of an influential client who he couldn't stand. Charlie wanted to be a writer. Betsy had her suspicions about the farmhand and had her friend, Max Harcourt check into his background. His true identity was discovered but not before a near fatal accident left him unconscious. His father came to realize that his son deserved to make his own decisions about his future and they reconciled. Betsy and Charlie fell in love and planned to be married in the summer.

Josie Blackburn, founder of the Camden Corners Chronicle and her assistant, Randy Burke had printed playbills, programs and tickets for the play. They had printed enough tickets to fill the auditorium and all the shop owners had been given a supply. It was discovered first thing that morning that the tickets were gone and the play had been sold out.

“Max, I have good news and bad news,” Josie told him after arriving at the Opera House. “The good news is we have sold out for the performance. The bad news is we have sold out for the performance.”

Max called all of the actors and stage hands together and told them of the dilemma. “If I can clear it with the Opera House owner, would everybody be willing to put on another performance or two? Looks like we are a hit before we even start.”

Everyone was agreeable to the change and excitement was mounting.

“Go ahead Josie, print up more tickets. Thanks for advertising our play so well.”

“It's my pleasure. I want this little one to have the benefit of listening to Miss Isabelle read stories one day. She patted her tummy.”

The dress rehearsal went well and Max got the OK to use the Opera House for as long as he needed it. The theater critics he had invited had accepted his invitation. He hadn't told anyone that they would be in the audience including Sarah. He knew it would make her even more anxious than she was already.

The day of the opening was a bustle of activity. Everyone in town was anxious to lend a hand. The ticket sales had been overwhelming. The play was now scheduled for three performances and those tickets were close to selling out. Each train pulling into the station that day had passengers disembarking in Camden Corners. The shops were filled with customers. Diana Taylor had to close the bakery before two in the afternoon because she ran out of small cakes and cookies. Maddie and her mother had a difficult time keeping up with the customers and called in as many of the Burke and Mackenzie children they could find to help out in the candy shop. Both antique shops were popular stops and Pringles Christmas Shop had never sold as many yuletide ornaments in the spring before. The Trattoria and Pub had customers waiting outside for tables until after 7:00 in the evening. Carriages and automobiles lined the streets. Residents opened their homes to strangers so they would have a place to sleep. The ski lodge had been closed for two months but opened its doors to visitors.

The play began right on schedule at 8:00 sharp. The performance was flawless. Max had insisted on rehearsal after rehearsal and his diligence paid off. Max tried to catch the expression on the faces of the critics he had invited. They never showed any reaction but the audience did. He could hear people crying softly during the tender and sensitive scenes and laughing when the scenes were lighthearted and funny. The curtain came down for intermission and everyone was raving about the play. They were all anxious to get back to their seats for the second half and as the curtain rose, there was silent anticipation.

All too soon the final curtain fell. Everyone stood, clapping and shouting BRAVO and ENCORE. Ernie counted 12 curtain calls.

“Not too bad for an amateur production,” he said to Reggie.

The critics came backstage after the crowd began to depart. They all shook Max's hand and thanked him for the invitation. Beverly recognized one of the gentleman and knew immediately what they were there for. She winked at Max and kept his secret.

Helene walked home with Millie and Leland. Neville would be attending the play the next day with his son and daughters. He had shared Hermione's revelations about Prudence with Millie.

“I don't see any reason why you want to wait for six months before you and Helene marry. You should have married years ago. Neville, nobody will think any less of you if you get on with your life. It's no secret how Prudence died.”

“Millicent, I must follow my conscience in this matter. Helene understands and agrees with me. We will see each other as we have since she came to Camden Corners. I'll be living at Mrs. Wharton's until I can arrange to have a house built for our family. We will marry no sooner than September and that is final.”

“I will plan the wedding for September 1^st. We will make it a formal affair maybe rent out the winery, it will be lovely in the late summer with the grapevines almost ready for harvest.”

“You will do no such thing. Helene and I will plan our own wedding. Under the circumstances I think being married in Vicar Will's office with our family and a few friends present will be the appropriate thing to do.”

“I don't like it but I won't argue with you. At least you have come to your senses and stopped blaming yourself for Prudence's death.”

Helene was quiet on the walk home.

“Is everything alright Helene? You haven't said a word since we left the theater.”

“Oh, I'm sorry Millie. I was so moved by Sarah's play tonight. I read her book when I first came to Camden Corners. I know how the true story ended and it makes me very sad. I must admit, I'm glad she made the ending a happier one. She is so talented. In fact, everyone performed their parts beautifully. Betsy Wallace is such a sweet girl. I know her from the library. She and Charlie Wentworth make a nice couple. I hope James can find someone special someday. I guess I'm just feeling a bit melancholy because of the play.”

“It probably doesn't help that my brother is keeping his distance. He doesn't owe that woman anything. I'm sorry, I shouldn't speak ill of the dead but it upsets me that she still has power over him even from the grave.”

“I agree with Neville, Millie. We can't disrespect the memory of the mother of his daughters. I know Neville loves me. I never thought we would be together and now I can see a future for us. September isn't that far away. I can wait and I hope you can too.”

At that moment Neville was looking at a calendar. September was so very far away. Maybe he was too hasty when he suggested six months. He missed Helene.

“Mrs. Wharton, I'm stepping out for a while. I'm anxious to see how my sister enjoyed the play this evening.”

“Have nice visit with Millie and say hello to Helene for me.” Martha Wharton said with a chuckle in her voice.

Neville was embarrassed but it didn't stop him from walking up the hill to the old Merryweather mansion.

Secret Weapon

Secret Weapon

After reading his pa's journal, Dusty was even more certain Al Blanchard's fall from the scaffolding of the job site in Greensboro was not an accident. He was also certain that the man responsible was Leo Carlisle. Dusty knew Leo's threats were to be taken seriously and his mother was in serious jeopardy if Dusty didn't do exactly what Leo told him to do.

Dusty was surprised Ernie Black gave him a job on the hospital project. He couldn't hide his nervousness. He couldn't stop thinking about his pa's fate and what may lay ahead for Ma. He knew Ernie only hired him because of his father and shuddered to think what Leo would have done if he came home without the job on the project.

Reggie went with Ernie back to the job site. Reggie told Ernie all about his visit to the Dalton Sawmill and let him know the first part of their order would be on its way in just a day or two. Ernie asked Reggie if Josie was feeling alright.

“She looked a little pale to me”

“Josie? She's just fine. Had a great time with Effie Dalton. If she didn't love Camden Corners so much, I don't think I could keep her away from Dalton's Mountain. Sure is beautiful country down there.”

In the meantime, Josie had her head over the commode in the McMillan home. Her mother was sympathetic but couldn't keep the smile off her face because it looked like she would be a grandmother very soon.

Josie joined her mother at the kitchen table.

“I wanted to ask you if you thought I might be expecting but I can tell by the look on your face that you suspect it too.”

“It's probably too soon to tell but maybe you should talk to your sister. I would guess you are suffering from morning sickness. I'll bet Reggie is beside himself.”

“I haven't mentioned it to Reggie. He is so preoccupied with troubles with the lumber order. I want his full attention before I let him know he might be a father in a few months.”

Reggie and Ernie were in Reggie's office discussing how the order could possibly have been switched. Ernie was quiet for a moment and then spoke up.

“I was walking from the wagon across the street when a fellow bumped my arm. I remember thinking it was odd because there was plenty of room for him to walk by me without running into me. The envelope dropped to the ground and he picked it up and handed it to me. Our eyes met and I remember feeling a chill for a moment. I then walked over to the Post Office and handed the envelope to Jackson Parker. We chatted for a few minutes and I returned back here.”

“Let's start with Jackson Parker.” said Reggie “We'll have him look at his log and see where that envelope actually went.”

They rode to the Post Office. Reggie noticed Josie and her mother were going into the doctor's office next door to the McMillan house. He didn't think anything about it since they were all in the family.

Jackson brought out the log and scanned the pages until he came to the one that named the recipient as Dalton Mills, Box 808, Pineville, NY.

“I'm sorry boss.” Ernie said quietly “It was so careless of me not to check that envelope. I should have known something was fishy about that guy. It was all my fault. I cost Miss Lucinda a bundle of money. I will have my resignation letter on your desk first thing tomorrow morning.”

“Ernie, you will do no such thing. It wasn't your fault. Why would you even look at the envelope? You had no way of knowing someone was on the lookout for you. I just wonder how this Carlisle guy knew that order was going out at that time and knew you would have it in your hand when he bumped into you. I'm afraid we may have a spy in our organization.”

The crew was called back to the job the following morning. Dusty thought he saw Leo standing next to the light pole as he walked from the worker's camping grounds to the job site. He knew he had to let Mr. Blackburn know what Leo was capable of but the veiled threat against his ma was constantly on his mind. An hour later, Dusty tripped over his tool box hurting his arm and was taken to see Doctor Tom Campbell.

Tom entered the examining room just as Dusty was removing his jacket without any obvious pain.

“Sorry Doc I didn't hurt myself, I just needed to talk to you or your wife or Doc McMillan. I know you are related to Mrs. Blackburn and I have to get some information to her husband without anyone knowing.

Tom was leery of the boy but willing to listen to his explanation. Dusty showed him the journal. Tom knew of the recent mix up with the lumber and that Reggie was very worried about who was sabotaging the hospital project.

“Has this Leo Carlisle threatened you Dusty?” Tom asked after he had read a few of the incriminating pages.

“No sir, not me. He has cast some kind of spell over my mother and he has hinted that harm will come to her if I don't do as he tells me. So far he hasn't told me to do anything except sign up to work on this job.”

Tom wrapped the boys arm and placed a sling around his neck.

“We will say you have a sprained arm. That way if Leo sees you he won't be suspicious. My wife and I are expected at the Blackburn house this evening for supper. I will give the journal to Reggie then. Dusty, you are a brave young man. I didn't know your pa but I'm sure he would be very proud of the way you are handling this situation.”

Dusty was walking back to the job site when Leo slithered from behind a tree.

“Looks like you will be given a job in the office for a while boy. That works out very well. You will be of more help to me there than out working in the field.”

Later that evening Reggie read over pages of Al Blanchard's journal. He was furious that the man was apparently murdered because of Leo Carlisle's greed.

“Ernie said the kid acted nervous. It's no wonder. From reading through the journal, it appears that Leo is either lurking around the job site of his current victim or he has intimidated someone else to do his dirty work.”

Josie spoke up “Reggie, do you remember that young girl we hired to do the filing and help with some of the paperwork? Her name was Pamela. I would find her crying at her desk almost daily. She never let on what was wrong and one day she simply didn't show up for work. She said she was staying with Evelyn Keys but when I checked with Evelyn, she had never heard of the girl. Maybe I should have looked into it further.”

“We need to get this information to Sheriff Mendenhall but I'm afraid Leo is watching every move we make. For Dusty's safety and his mother's we will have to be very careful.”

Doc McMillan who had been sitting quietly listening to the conversation said “I'm having breakfast with the sheriff and Oscar in the morning. I'll make sure he gets the journal. Oscar will have some ideas, too.”

The sheriff was indeed interested in Al Blanchard's journal and the implications. He had recently returned from a convention of area sheriffs and it seemed Mr. Leo Carlisle had been under suspicion in several cases. None of the cases had ever been resolved because witnesses were unwilling to implicate Leo in any of them.

“I'll check the whereabouts of Pamela Fuller. It sounds like she may have the proof we need to arrest Leo Carlisle. I'm sure the Sheriff in Greensboro would be interested to know that Al Blanchard's death may not have been accidental after all.”

Josie really liked Dusty Blanchard. He was still very worried about his mother but he felt assured that Leo's reign of terror would be coming to an end soon. Josie had told him not to worry. The matter was being handled. They never knew who might be listening so they limited their conversation about the matter.

Dusty was sleeping soundly in his bunk that evening when he was suddenly awakened with a poke to the ribs.

“Find the order for bricks and meet me in the park near the library tomorrow at 12:00. Bring your lunch, we'll have a picnic” Dusty couldn't mistake the evil cackle of Leo Carlisle.

Dusty reported Leo's demand the following morning. Josie quickly drew up an order with false information. She knew it would be impossible to fill the order even from a disreputable company but she hoped when Leo was transferring the information to his own order forms he would not recognize the errors.

Josie was still suffering from morning sickness. Her sister had given her some medication to ease the nausea but she had left it at home this morning. Her stomach felt a little queasy but she was determined to fight it. She was sorry she had eaten so much last night but she was terribly hungry and she couldn't seem to stop herself from reaching for that second helping. She still hadn't told Reggie her news. She wanted it to be a special time for them and with the uproar with Leo and his shenanigans Reggie was still preoccupied.

There was a knock on the office door. Josie opened it to see Pamela Fuller standing there.

“Pamela, where have you been? You just disappeared and we had no idea where to find you.”

“I'm sorry Miss Josie, I have been dishonest with you and you were so kind to me. I met a fellow named Leo Carlisle. I've never had a beau before and he was so very charming I'm afraid after a few kind words I developed a crush on him. He wanted me to help him with a plan to swindle your husband and take money for himself. Oh, Miss Josie, I told him I couldn't do such a thing and suddenly he turned on me. What I thought was charm became pure evil. He threatened to hurt my dear mama. I couldn't bear anything happening to her and I went along with his plan. I started working here and copied the lumber order and gave it to Leo. Leo bumped into Ernie on the street and exchanged the envelope with the bogus one. He then took the check made out to Dalton Mills and was able to cash it at the bank in Greensboro. I suspect he may have been blackmailing someone at the bank to illegally cash the checks. I felt so guilty all those times you found me crying but I couldn't tell you. I had confided in my cousin Muriel who lives in Pennsylvania. She arranged for my mother and me to board the train under false identities and come to stay with her. My mother passed away in her sleep last week. I decided to come back here and face my punishment. Now that my mother is safe with the Lord, I am no longer afraid of Mr. Leo Carlisle.”

Leo had been watching Ernie Black from across the street and hadn't noticed Pamela Fuller walking into the office until it was too late to stop her.

“I should have gotten rid of the insipid woman a long time ago” he whispered to himself.

Leo practically ran to the office door, put his ear to the door and listened as Julie spoke.

“You did the right thing Pamela, I'm very sorry about your mother but we will keep you safe from Leo. You stay here while I find Reggie. We will call Sheriff Mendenhall and have Leo Carlisle arrested.

Leo backed away from the door. They weren't going to catch him. His way out of town was right here in plain sight. Josie Blackburn was a fine looking woman and his insurance policy.

Josie was walking quickly to the construction area where Reggie was talking with Ernie and a couple of the men. She felt the bile rising in her throat but had to get to Reggie before Leo got to Pamela. Suddenly she felt an arm around her waist and felt metal in her ribs. She wasn't surprised when she turned and her captor was none other than Leo Carlisle. She heard Pamela scream and Reggie shout her name. Leo was holding her tightly and was looking into her eyes when she couldn't hold back any longer. She regurgitated directly into Leo's face. He jumped back, dropped the gun and started retching himself. Leo had no qualms about killing someone in cold blood but couldn't take watching someone vomit. Especially, when it was directed at him.

The crew wrestled Leo to the ground and held him there and hosed him down while they waited for the sheriff to arrive and haul him off to jail.

Reggie held Josie closely. “You have been doing that often lately. Do you think we should get you over to Doc's so he can check you out? A stomach flu shouldn't last this long.”

“It's not a stomach flu, Papa. I was waiting for a special time to tell you but I think our little baby just saved my life and I would say this is a very special time.”

Reggie picked her up and swung her around until he thought better of it. Josie was looking a little green at the moment. Instead he put his arm around her and walked her back into the office where she could rest after her ordeal.

Leo confessed to Al Blanchard's murder and several other crimes insuring that he would be spending the next 99 years in prison.

Pamela was exonerated from any criminal charges and went back to Pennsylvania where she met and married Arnold Swanson who charmed her in only good ways.

Dusty was welcomed with open arms upon returning to Greensboro. He became sought after whenever a new construction project began.

The Journal

 

The Journal

On the way home from Virginia, Reggie was very quiet. Josie didn't notice because she was lost in her own thoughts. She had felt a little queasy when she woke up this morning and the horse back ride to the train station hadn't helped. She knew Reggie was worried about the lumber order and how the inferior lumber had shown up at the job site in Camden Corners. Josie excused herself to visit the ladies room where she promptly lost the wonderful breakfast Effie Dalton had prepared before they left Dalton's Mountain. She rinsed her mouth out as best she could.

“Are you feeling alright Miss?” Josie heard someone say.

“I'm going to be fine” replied Josie “I must have picked up a virus on my visit to Virginia. Thank you for asking.”

“Oh dear, I have seen the signs before and I think you may have something a little more than a virus. Are you sure you aren't expecting?”

“Expecting? Certainly not, we have only been married for a few weeks. It's much too soon to be experiencing morning sickness.”

“I have five children and had morning sickness for the full nine months with each and every one of them. It does happen. If I were a betting woman, I would guess you will be feeling better by this afternoon. In the meantime, I have some soda crackers that might do the trick. I make sure I don't leave home without a fresh supply.”

She winked at Josie as she handed her several crackers. It was then Josie noticed the woman definitely had an expanding waistline.

“Thank you for the crackers and good luck with number six.”

“They tell me it's going to be number six and seven this time.” The stranger grinned widely and was out the door.

By the time Josie returned to her seat she had nibbled on three of the saltines and was feeling much better. She wondered if she should mention her conversation with the woman in the ladies room and decided against it. Reggie was so preoccupied she wanted his full attention before she talked of the possibility of a new baby.

Ernie Black was anxious for Reggie's return. He didn't have a clue as to what happened to the order that was suppose to go to Zeke Dalton for the lumber. He went over it in his mind. He had taken the order with him to the post office and remembered having a conversation with Jackson Parker, the postmaster. Somewhere between his office and the post office the order had been changed and had been sent to an outfit just over the border that had a reputation for cheap, shoddy workmanship. Did he stop somewhere along the way? He tried but couldn't remember.

The train pulled into the station and Ernie was there to meet it. Josie told Reggie to go along, she would walk over to the McMillan house and say hello to her mother. She would find a way home and see him later. She wanted talk to her mother about her suspicions.

Dusty Blanchard was working on the tracks on the north side of the train depot. It was one of the jobs the crew had been reassigned to while they waited for the Dalton lumber to arrive. He noticed Reggie as he and his wife stepped off the train and were greeted by Ernie Black. Dusty swore they were looking directly at him but maybe it was simply his imagination due to his guilty conscience.

Dusty's life had taken a dramatic turn eighteen months ago. He had just graduated from Greensboro High and had taken a job with the construction company his pa worked with. He was proud to be working with Al Blanchard. Al was respected by the entire crew and the owners of the company alike. Seemingly overnight, Al's attitude began to change. He was curt with the crew and with Dusty. He walked around with a scowl on his face most of the day. Even his ma noticed the change in Al. Two months later Al fell to his death from the third floor of the new bank building being constructed on Main.

Dusty stayed on with the crew but the job was never the same. He had a hard time believing his father would have ever been so careless as to slip on the scaffolding as it appeared that he did. Al Blanchard always stressed the importance of safety. Dusty's ma retreated into herself after her husband's death.

After a few months, Leo Carlisle knocked on Connie Blanchard's front door. Leo was a charmer and Connie was charmed. He claimed to have come by to offer his condolences for her loss.

As he walked into the parlor, he looked around the room and said “What a lovely home you have Mrs. Blanchard. May I call you Connie? Al spoke of you so often I feel as though I know you.”

Connie was surprised that this gentleman was such a close friend to Al since she had never heard his name before.

“Would you care for a cup of tea Mr. Carlisle?”

“Connie dear, please call me Leo. Yes, I would love to have some tea. Don't bother with the sugar, there is enough sweetness in the room already.”

Connie giggled. Al never said things like that to her. She felt like a school girl and after months of mourning, it felt good to be able to laugh again.

It didn't take Leo long to ingratiate himself into the Blanchard home. Dusty didn't find him nearly as charming as his mother did. He remembered seeing him around the job site. He knew he wasn't part of the crew but he would appear at various times. Dusty remembered seeing him behind the counter of a coffee and doughnut stand he'd set up by the side of the road near the site where the workers would take their morning breaks.

Leo had taken up going to church with Connie and Dusty. One Sunday, on the way back to the Blanchard home, Leo suggested they go through Al's clothes and give them to the poor.

“The Al I knew was generous to a fault and I know he would want his things to go to a good cause.”

Connie hadn't been able to face that task but with dear Leo at her side she thought she was ready. Dusty wasn't sure he wanted Leo going through his pa's things and made sure he got to his dresser before Leo did.

Dusty opened the top drawer. He knew right away that it wasn't going to be easy to sort through all these things of his pa's. He found the pen knife he'd had since he was a boy. A pair of cuff links he remembered seeing pa wear every Sunday. A journal filled with entries in Pa's handwriting. Dusty had to blink away some tears and put the journal in his pocket to read when he was by himself.

Just then Leo came up behind him. He hadn't seen Dusty put the journal into his pocket but he started rummaging through the drawer himself. Dusty picked up some papers that looked like receipts. Leo grabbed them out of his hand and without saying a word stuffed them in his pocket and continued searching through the drawer. After he was satisfied he had seen everything in the drawer, he shut it abruptly and went on to the next. Dusty found another receipt tucked between two handkerchiefs. Something was not right. He saw his father's name on the bottom but it didn't look anything like his signature.

Suddenly Leo grabbed the receipt out of his hand.

“Unless you want the same fate for your mother as was your fathers, you will forget you saw this.”

Dusty looked into Leo's eyes and saw pure evil. He knew at that moment that his father's death was not accidental and he knew who was responsible for it.

The days went on and Leo became more and more important in Connie's life. One day he mentioned at the dinner table that there was a big construction project beginning in Camden Corners.

“Dusty wouldn't it be a good idea for you to sign on to the crew there. I would be sure your mother remained safe here in Greensboro if you were to do that.”

Dusty knew a threat when he heard it. He didn't want to leave his mother in the hands of Leo Carlisle but he also knew he had no choice.

As Dusty was packing his bag, he came across his father's journal. He had blanked it out of his mind. He dropped it in his bag. At the train station he gave his mother a big hug. She cried as he boarded the train and Leo whispered, “I'll be in touch.” Dusty was still shaking as the train pulled away from the station.

Dusty opened the journal and began reading his father's entries. Al's concern showed through on the first few pages of the journal. He had been aware that the materials they received for the project were not up to the usual standards of any of the companies the outfit had always dealt with. Al mentioned finding receipts with his name in the signature line but not signed by him. According to the journal, Al hadn't mentioned his suspicions to any of the crew. He had started his own investigation and was close to finding the answer. He went on to mention Leo Carlisle. Leo appeared on the job site one morning. He told Al he was in the insurance business and was inquiring about the project. Al informed him the job's insurance needs were covered and his services weren't required. He mentioned the look of pure evil in the man's eyes as he said, “We'll see about that.”

Al wired each and every company where original material orders had been placed. No recent orders had been received by any one of them. The same procedure was followed every time an order was placed. After writing the order and checking it for errors, he would give the paperwork to one of the crew members to take to the post office to be mailed to the supply company. He did remember asking Emmett Larson to take the order for steel girders. He called Emmett into his office and asked him to remember everything he could about the time between when he was given the envelope and when he delivered it to the post office. Emmett couldn't remember anything unusual but after a few minutes, he did recall something that was hardly worth mentioning. On his way across the street, a fellow bumped into him almost knocking him over. He dropped the envelope and the man picked it up and handed it back to him.

“Do you remember what the fellow looked like?”

“Yes sir. I have seen him around here before. He has been selling doughnuts from a stand across the street. Some of the fellows go there every morning during break. It is almost break time now and I think he might be out there sir.”

Al followed Emmett out the door and across to the coffee stand. He wasn't too surprised to see Leo Carlisle grinning at him.

“Good morning Mr. Blanchard. How nice to see you at my little coffee stand this morning.”

“Insurance business not going too well these days Leo?”

“On the contrary sir, on the contrary.” Leo's maniacal laugh sent chills down Al's spine.

Al spoke with several other workers who had delivered orders. In each instance they recalled a similar experience getting the envelope to the post office and each one of them remembered someone who looked like Leo Carlisle was involved.

The last entry in the journal was dated the day before Al died. He was going to report his suspicions to the sheriff first thing in the morning.

A Mysterious Find

 

Sarah Lane, assistant librarian for Camden Corners Library was engrossed in the latest novel by her all time favorite author, J.K. Ellingsworth when she suddenly had the feeling someone was standing in front of her. Startled, she dropped the book and looked up into the most beautiful green eyes she had ever seen. Maxwell Harcourt smiled at the pretty young woman who happened to be reading his latest novel. Max was a tall muscular guy who didn't fit the mold of a romance writer although he never thought of his novels as romantic. It just made them a bit more interesting if there was a love affair going on while his hero was solving the latest murder or catching criminals. His agent told him with his good looks, he would sell even more of his works if he agreed to a book tour. Max enjoyed escaping with his pen and paper and letting his imagination spill out onto the pages. He had written 25 novels and no one except his trusted agent knew who J.K. Ellingsworth was. Max wanted to keep it that way.

He had just arrived in Camden Corners, rented a room in the Wharton House and set out immediately for the library to check out a reference book or two hoping inspiration would come for another novel.

Sarah composed herself and offered her assistance to this stranger with the green eyes. She was just reading about Gilmartin Trent and his latest escapade when she looked up and saw her hero standing before her. Of course he wasn't this fictional character but she was certain Gil would look just like this stranger. Sarah was pleased to learn Mr. Harcourt would be living in Camden Corners. There were a number of good looking men in town but most of them were already taken. She was happy to present him with a library card and guide him to the reference section. Sarah went back to her book but found it hard to concentrate while keeping one eye toward the back section of the library.

Max was contemplating his next novel. He had envisioned a village much like Camden Corners. A calm peaceful town where people knew and liked each other. A town where crime usually consisted of a young lad swiping a piece of taffy from the candy shop on Main, or a smitten teenager stealing a kiss behind the cottonwood tree in the park. Camden Corners would be the perfect location for a perfect crime.

Max spent the next two hours scanning books of history written about Camden Corners. One book had been placed behind other reference books on the uppermost shelf in the corner of the aisle. Max's arms were long enough to reach the large book and noticed it was covered with dust. It must have been hidden in this corner for a very long time. That being the case, Max was curious as to what was hidden and by whom. As he was leafing through the pages, he came upon an article that had been cut out of a newspaper and folded over several times.

The headline read: “MYSTERY IN CAMDEN CORNERS. Aug. 11, 1801 – Long time residents of Camden Corners, Simon and Hannah Lane and Simon's brother, Caleb have disappeared from their home in the Camden Creek area. Friends and neighbors report the family had become reclusive the last few months. Simon and Hannah welcomed twin boys in early spring of last year. Friends calling on the Lanes claim a female caretaker was tending Mrs. Lane as she had contracted an undisclosed illness. Sheriff Martin from nearby Greensboro was summoned to investigate the property and found it to be vacated. Friends and neighbors are suspicious and fear for the safety of the family.

Another article dated two days later reported three bodies had been discovered and quoted Sheriff Martin saying the deaths were accidental and he was doubtful foul play is involved and has closed the case.

Max glanced over towards Sarah. He remembered that her name plate said Sarah Lane.

“I wonder if she knows anything about this mystery and why the articles had been stashed in the book.”

Max noted the time and realized the library had officially closed 15 minutes earlier. He apologized to Sarah for keeping her and checked out the reference book with the article inside.

“Would it be too presumptuous of me to ask you to join me for supper this evening” he asked an enamored Sarah.

“I would like that very much” replied Sarah.

The couple left the library after Sarah turned out the lights and locked the door. They stopped by Sarah's house. Sarah wanted to pick up her wrap as the air was turning cooler. Sarah introduced Max to her parents, Marian and Andrew Lane and her two little brothers who were playing a game of catch on the front lawn.

Marian could tell her daughter was taken with this handsome young man and worried about her. He seemed a bit too worldly for her sheltered daughter who lived in a fantasy world with her romance novels. Andrew, on the other hand was happy to see Sarah with a flesh and blood man for a change instead of having her nose buried in a book.

On the way to O'Sullivan's Pub, Sarah told him story after story of the little shops and the people who owned them. He was interested in the citizens of Camden Corners but wanted to learn more about the Lane family and if they had ever returned to Camden Corners.

By the time the corned beef and cabbage arrived at their table, Sarah and Max both felt they had known each other all their lives.

He asked about her family and how long the Lanes had been in Camden Corners. She told him her Dad was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. He had come to Camden Corners right after graduation from normal school and had been teaching at Camden High School ever since. Her mother had lived here all her life. Max wondered aloud what brought Andrew to Camden Corners and Sarah answered that he had relatives who had lived here.

“His great grandfather, Simon and his great great uncle, Caleb were members of the community. It seems, Simon was shot and killed protecting his brother from hoodlums who were passing through town. Caleb set out to capture the thugs and bring them to justice but was killed himself when he was trampled by a horse attempting to save a young lady from the raging waters of the Patapsco River. Simon's widow was so distraught over her husband's death, she died of a broken heart two months later leaving her toddler twin sons alone in the world. The twins were raised in an orphanage. One of those boys was my great grandfather Charles Lane.”

“What a fascinating tale” thought Max. “I certainly can't ask Sarah about the articles now.”

All too soon the evening ended. Max walked Sarah to her front door. He may have tried to kiss her cheek but Marian was standing in the doorway. Max thought he may have seen a rolling pin hidden behind her back. He hoped it was only his imagination. That night, Sarah fell asleep dreaming of her own happy ending with her very own Gilmartin Trent.

Max was enjoying a tasty breakfast served by Mrs. Wharton at the boarding house. He was the first tenant to arrive at the dining table. While Mrs. Wharton was serving him his eggs and bacon he nonchalantly mentioned the Lane Brothers.

Mrs. Wharton suddenly became very quiet.

Finally, she whispered “There is something very strange about that affair. Everyone has been led to believe that those brothers were the salt of the earth but when I was just a young lass, I heard my daddy and his friends talking about the murder. There was a newspaper article that told the story of the disappearance of the entire family, but it hasn't been found in over 70 years. Someone has tried to cover up something strange all these years. My daddy said Caleb Lane picked up a floozy named Sylvia from the pub, married her and took her back to his cabin. From that day on, sweet Miss Hannah had not been seen again. From what I have heard, Miss Sylvia was not a one man woman, if you know what I mean.”

Mrs. Wharton paused to catch her breath and then went on. “You didn't hear that from me. I'm not one to speak ill of the dead, but there is something very strange about that whole thing. Why do you ask, Maxwell?”

“Oh, no reason, I just came upon the Lane name in one of the reference books at the library. I also spent a delightful evening with Miss Sarah Lane.”

As soon as the words were out of his mouth, Max knew the very talkative Mrs. Wharton would be sharing this tidbit of information with the whole town.

Max had an appointment with Robert Crowley. He needed an attorney in Camden Corners if he was planing to stay here very long. His agent had recommended Mr. Crowley to handle his business affairs. Max wanted to keep his alter ego, J. K. Ellingsworth under wraps for the time being. Max was impressed with Robert and felt certain he would be trustworthy.

Max had carried the newspaper clippings with him in his brief case and asked Robert what he thought of it. He mentioned speaking to Mrs. Wharton and what she said about the missing articles. Robert thought it was very interesting. He had heard conflicting stories about the incident through the years but the man to speak with would be his dad, Oscar Crowley.