Prudence

by Caroline Clemmons

  He faced her. “So now you think you know more about medicine than I do?”

  Prudence hoped the horse knew the way home because Riley wasn’t paying attention to their route. “You know very well that’s not what I said. But, I know a lot more than you give me credit for, which is almost nothing.”

  She gestured widely. “Sure, I can clean up the mess. After all, that’s woman’s work, isn’t it? Oh, but I couldn’t possibly know anything about helping heal people.”

  “That’s sums up my feelings all right. Have you been to medical school? No. Have you trained in a hospital? No again.”

  Prudence hated they’d gone from camaraderie to heated debate. “It might interest you to know that in many European countries, herbal healing is combined with medical treatment to reach a much more satisfactory result.”

  He almost hissed, “Ha, I don’t believe that. The United States is the healthiest place in the world.”

  “Who says? One of your so-called medical experts? Actually, Switzerland has a much healthier population and they’re one of the countries that combines treatment methods.” She hoped she remembered correctly.

  Neither spoke the rest of the way to Tarnation. Prudence sat stiffly so she wouldn’t accidentally brush against Riley. When they reached his home he didn’t turn in. She sent him a questioning glare.

  “I’ll drop you at Lydia’s.”

  “Stop now. There’s no need to inconvenience your superior self on my account.”

  “You’ll have to suffer a few more blocks, Miss Lynch.”

  “We’re back to last names, are we?”

  When he stopped in front of Lydia’s, Prudence hopped down and grabbed her medical bag. “Thank you, Dr. Gaston. There’s more I’d like to say, but being a lady, I won’t. Good day.”

  She stormed up the walk and into the house before he noticed she had tears running down her cheeks. Lydia emerged from her office, red-rimmed eyes testifying to her lack of sleep and, perhaps, even to her having cried.

  Lydia pulled her into a hug. “Aren’t we a fine pair? Let’s go into the kitchen. We have delicious leftovers from dinner.”

  ***

  Riley hated that he and Prudence had argued. She was being unreasonable. He should have asked her what she left for Ola Mae. If anything hindered the young mother’s recovery, he’d never let Prudence forget her foolishness.

  He saw Grady McIntyre and slowed the buggy. “Ola Mae Hankins had twins, boy and a girl.”

  A broad grin split the preacher’s face. “Everything all right?”

  No, but he wasn’t going into his dilemma. “Her mother arrived to help, and she’ll be needed.”

  “Dobber’s healed, isn’t he?”

  “Good as new and it’s a good thing.”

  “I’ll go visit them tomorrow.” Grady waved as Riley drove away.

  Riley brushed and fed the horse then turned him into the pasture. He trudged into the house, feeling as if he were about a hundred.

  His mother greeted him with her customary smile. “How are the patients?”

  “Mother and both babies are fine.” He sank onto a kitchen chair. “Had to deliver them by caesarean.”

  His mother’s expression expressed concern. “You’ve never done that before, have you?”

  “Admit I was scared but everything went well.” Scared? He’d been all but petrified. He’d been lucky Prudence was with him. They’d worked well together, until she overstepped her bounds.

  He rubbed a hand across his face. “Stayed until Ola Mae’s mother arrived to help them.”

  “I hope you and Prudence had time to get over your differences.”

  He hit the table with his palm at the reminder of her perfidy. “For a while, but then she had to go and leave a bunch of her herbs and teas without asking me. I almost went back to collect them before they had a chance to do any harm. I should have.”

  She set a glass of milk in front of him. “Son, that’s ridiculous. Prudence has been healing folks for years. Went with her grandmother to treat folks and deliver babies when she wasn’t more than a child. She and her grandmother studied all the medical texts they could find.”

  Exhaustion and remorse claimed him but he drained the glass. “Mother, I’m too tired to talk about this now. If there aren’t any patients waiting, I’m going to go wash up and change clothes. Might catch a nap.”

  “Go ahead. Mr. Horrowitz was by earlier but he said there was no rush and he’d come back another time. If anyone comes, I’ll let you know.”

  Prudence studied medical texts? That’s how she knew about the first caesarean. She said she read all she could but he hadn’t realized she meant actually studying medical texts.

  Once again, he’d underrated her. Why did that woman get under his skin to infuriate him? Yet of the seven who’d come with Lydia and his mother, Prudence was the only one who instantly appealed to him.

  He stripped off his outer clothes and washed his face and hands. Without another cogent thought, he crawled into bed.

  ***

  Prudence hoped her appearance didn’t betray her mood. At least she had her work to keep her busy and fulfilled. Not really busy yet, but enough to support her even when she had to pay rent.

  She tidied shelves between patients. Some were just customers who wanted an herb or tea to keep on hand at home. Others were patients who consulted her on a particular medical problem.

  About four, Sophie came through the doorway. “Thank you for going with Riley yesterday. He mentioned you helped him a great deal.”

  She shook her head and offered her friend a chagrinned expression. “You don’t have to make up kind words for him, Sophie. I know he needed me, but I doubt he said anything kind about me.”

  “But he did and admitted he had to perform a caesarean even though he was scared. Having you there must have bolstered his confidence.”

  Prudence thought his confidence exceeded that of most people but she wouldn’t tell his mother. “I hope so. He’s a skilled surgeon. I don’t believe many doctors could have succeeded in that procedure with such a good outcome.”

  Sophie beamed with pride in her son. “That aside, I’ve come to ask you about a problem I’ve had the past few weeks.”

  Alarmed that her friend was ill, Prudence gestured to the treatment room. “Tell me what’s been going on.”

  Later, Prudence watched Sophie walk across the road, glad Sophie had consulted her. Suffering was needless in her case.

  ***

  Riley looked out the window and saw his mother leaving Prudence’s shop. His own mother!

  Aghast, he met her at the door. As soon as the door was closed behind her, he asked, “Et tu, Mother? How could you shame me by consulting Prudence instead of me? Are you trying to undermine people’s confidence in me? How do you think that looks to the town?”

  His mother patted his arm as she passed. “It will look as if there are some things a mother doesn’t discuss with her son, even if he is a skilled physician.”

  He shook his head, not sure what she was talking about. “What?”

  “You heard me. I’ve put off getting something taken care of because I certainly don’t want my own son doing a cervical exam on me. I hope you’re smart enough to understand.”

  “Oh, guess that would be… um, uncomfortable and… well, downright embarrassing for both of us.”

  “It would.” She pointed at him. “But, it isn’t likely to happen unless I need surgery.”

  “I hope you’d at least ask me to do the surgery.”

  She hugged him. “Son, if that were the case, I wouldn’t have anyone but you perform the procedure. Fortunately, surgery isn’t necessary.”

  He exhaled his relief. At least she didn’t doubt his skill. “I’m glad to hear that, Mother. Miss Lynch diagnosed you and gave you herbs or something to help?”

  “She did and was quite professional in her exam. Lovely bedside manner that reassures and comforts. I suppose you noticed that when she helpe
d you.”

  He had to confess. “I saw that with Nancy and again with Ola Mae. But, you know I’m not an ogre and don’t frighten patients?

  His mother tapped her cheek in thought for a few seconds. “You’re very good with patients, but different from Prudence. She’s quite professional yet at the same time as soothing as a mother to a child. She put me at ease immediately.”

  Irritation burned a trail from his gut to his throat. “I have a good rapport with my patients.”

  She gave his arm a couple of pats. “Of course you do. Don’t be so defensive. I assure you my going to see Prudence in no way questions your ability. Now, I’m going to make our supper—unless you think you could do a better job.”

  He sought his office’s sanctuary. Would he ever have the last word in a conversation with his mother? Deep down, he knew his mother was proud of him yet just now he’d had his dignity slapped in the head.

  Chapter Eight

  Several evenings later, Prudence was seated in the parlor when Lydia came in wearing an excited expression. “I purchased tickets to the theater for this weekend. I hope you don’t mind that I’ve included you.”

  Prudence put aside the book she’d been reading. “How could I mind? I saw the poster advertising the show.”

  “Vaudeville acts are not my favorite, but we should have a fun evening.”

  “Perhaps not as momentous as Geraldine Chitwood’s performance, but probably better than the acrobats.”

  “I hope so. We’ve been invited to have dinner at Sophie’s and then we can ride to the opera house.”

  She’d have to wear her same old dress. She’d made a bit from her work. Perhaps she could buy something readymade from the mercantile. “Who else is coming?”

  “Sophie and Riley, of course… and Adam.” Lydia sighed. “I’m so mad at him I almost didn’t invite him, but folks would notice and talk if he didn’t share my box as usual. Sophie has been my dear friend for years and always sits with me. Riley often accompanies her.”

  Prudence narrowed her eyes at her friend. “This almost sounds like a conspiracy to throw Riley and me together.”

  From the guilty blush on Lydia’s face, Prudence had guessed correctly but Lydia held up a hand in protest. “You don’t have to sit by him or even speak to him. I do want you and Sophie there with me, though, and I hope you’ll come.”

  “I’ll look forward to the evening but I’ll be surprised if Riley accepts.”

  “I believe he will. I have plans for you and me, by the way. I think it’s time we set those two men on their ears.”

  “Sounds great but how do we accomplish that seemingly impossible feat?” She couldn’t imagine Riley being astonished at her appearance.

  “Don’t be offended, please. My sister Bella is eager for me to stop wearing lavender and gray mourning clothes. She gave me a sapphire dress no one has yet seen. If I offer it to you, no one will know you didn’t have it made.”

  “I don’t care if people know you gave me a dress. But, Lydia, you’ve given me so much already, bringing me here and letting me live with you. I’m already taking advantage of your good nature.”

  “Nonsense. You know very well I’ve loved every minute. I realize you can’t replenish your wardrobe until you decide what to do with your treasure. I’ve wanted to offer before, but now I insist. Let me give you a few dresses until you can buy what you wish.”

  The lure of nice clothes was too much. Would it be so bad if she let Lydia share her wardrobe? “I should say no but I’m so tired of the same three rags and embarrassed to go to nice events wearing my same old dress.”

  “Then that hurdle is cleared.”

  “What will you wear to the theater?”

  “I have a new gray silk trimmed in black velvet you haven’t seen. My sister is my size and determined to update my wardrobe. She has no idea what’s proper for Tarnation, though, so I’ve removed trains and toned down a few of the clothes.” She leaned forward conspiratorially. “She wears her dinner gowns much too low for our town.”

  “I’ve planned to get three dresses as soon as my finances are settled. I appreciate your generosity now.”

  “Shall we go upstairs and I’ll show them to you?”

  Prudence almost leaped from the couch to follow Lydia. In her hostess’ room, Prudence took the chair indicated.

  Lydia pulled out the most gorgeous dress ever created. “I thought you might wear this to the theater.”

  “I’ve never seen anything lovelier. Your sister must have spent a fortune on this gown.”

  The two piece sapphire silk was trimmed with rows of delicate lace a shade lighter on which intricate beadwork had been applied. Matching velvet bows were sewn in front to the waist. Hesitantly, Prudence touched the garment. My word, it was smooth and soft.

  She held the dress in front of her while she looked into a chevalier mirror. “I thought her husband was a soldier.”

  “In the war he was, but his family is quite wealthy. Bella got this in Paris, but I’m not ready for anything this bright. Too great a switch.”

  “But, you should save it until you’re ready to wear bolder colors.”

  “No, I want you to wear this on Saturday. There are also a couple for everyday I thought you might enjoy. One is this jade cotton.” She held up a lovely dress with wide ecru lace at the sleeves and neck. Ruffles of the same fabric decorated the panniers and the edge of the underskirt.

  “I don’t know what to say. These are greater gifts than Granny’s gold. I can enjoy dresses now and not have to keep them secret.”

  Lydia chuckled. “One more for your office. This is practical fabric, as is the jade. I do think you need something easily laundered for work, don’t you?”

  She pulled a pale blue muslin dress trimmed in apricot lace. Although a deep vee at the front would have been scandalous, an apricot inset protected the wearer’s modesty.

  Lydia rolled her eyes. “This is one I had modified, as you can probably guess. Bella has beautiful shoulders and breasts and likes to show them off with low-necked gowns. I vow someday one of her breasts is going to pop out of her dress.”

  Prudence laughed. “That would be embarrassing. I’m glad you remedied that problem. Oh, Lydia, I want to dance around the house. You’ve doubled my wardrobe with the most wonderful clothes.”

  “Seriously, Prudence, you must remedy that. You’re an important person in our community now and should treat yourself as such.”

  “I hadn’t thought of myself in that way.” She smoothed the jade fabric with her fingers. “I do need clothes that can be laundered when I deliver a baby. Even though I wear an apron and sleeve protectors, accidents happen.”

  “I can imagine. Hmm, perhaps wide lace on the sleeves of the jade dress aren’t very practical. That style is so flattering and makes me feel feminine but you can remove the ruffle. Of course, Bella only swans about being decorative and has no idea what is and isn’t practical. Please don’t think I’m being too critical of my sister. I love her a great deal even though we don’t see one another often enough.”

  Prudence held the sapphire blue again. “Being here with the other girls you brought and knowing you is the closest I’ve had to a sister—or a friend. The women my age where I grew up are all married with several children. They always thought I was strange because I worked with Granny and never went out with any of the local boys.” Thinking about that, she supposed she was odd.

  “You would have been set apart, I can understand that. I’m grateful you found Sophie and me and came here. You’re an important addition to the community as well as being a good friend.”

  Prudence’s heart was near bursting with happiness at Lydia’s affirmation. “Thank you for saying so. Your opinion means a lot to me.”

  Lydia held a gray silk dress against her for Prudence to see. “This is the dress I’ll wear. While the color is still within three-year mourning range, the style is daring. Still, I believe it’s suitable for the theater.”

>   Thoughts of the coming theater trip reminded Prudence that not everyone shared Lydia’s opinion. “I wish Riley shared your estimation of me. He can be nice and an interesting man to talk to. Then he’ll say something that makes me so mad I want to hit him. He is so stubborn.”

  Lydia returned her gray silk to her armoire. “He’s not the only one. Whether or not they change their mind about marriage to us, we’re going to shake up their opinion of women in general and us in particular. I expect Riley to practically pass out when he sees you in that sapphire dress.”

  Prudence could only hope he was impressed. “You don’t think Adam will be poleaxed by the gray silk?”

  Lydia offered a wicked grin. “Well, the neckline might be a little lower than I usually wear. And my new corset does give my bosom an extra lift.”

  Prudence echoed her grin. “Oh, he’s a goner. Seriously, I hope both of them fall hard and accept us as we are.”

  “Adam thinks he already does, but he doesn’t. He sees me as William’s wife, now his widow. But, I’m not merely an extension of William’s personality” Lydia tapped her chest. “Adam doesn’t see me as Lydia, as me, as who I am or what I need.”

  Prudence’s mood deflated. “Frankly, I doubt a dress will change Riley’s mind, but I’m hopeful. If not, thanks to you, at least I’ll look better than I ever have.”

  Prudence gathered her new clothes and took them to her room. Lovingly, she hung them in her armoire. If only Granny could see these dresses and this room and her office and this house. She’d be so pleased at where Prudence had made her new home.

  If Riley didn’t decide to be kind and someday court her and propose, she’d simply continue her practice in Tarnation. There must be a house here she could rent or buy. Although she now had the means to live anywhere, this was her town and she wasn’t leaving.

  Of course, she’d assist him whenever he asked. She cared about her work and patients too much to turn down a request from Riley for her help. She’d be cool and professional and try her best not to talk to him about anything medical.