Emma’s laughter brought his attention from thoughts of doing bodily harm to the man.
“I’m afraid both Betsy’s and Annie’s imagination have been spurred on by Charles Dickens’ story, A Christmas Carol. She convinced most of the younger students someone in town should have a visit from at least one of the spirits from the book soon.” Miss Adams giggled.
Emma leaned forward and spoke softly, “During Sunday school last week, we reviewed Luke chapter 2, so the children could become more familiar with their parts for the nativity play. When I read about the heavenly host of angels appearing to the shepherds, Annie thought I said heavenly ghost.”
“Which explains a lot.” Noah reached for a slice of gingerbread. “But she seemed to be quoting from A Christmas Carol, not the Bible.”
“I love the children, but most Sundays I wonder if I’ve been able to teach them anything.” Emma gave Garnet a wide-eyed look. “I don’t know how you keep order in your classroom. It would be easier to herd a dozen cats than teach a room full of children.”
Garnet and Noah dissolved into laughter. “The children are taking in more than you think.” She wiped her eyes.
“My pa read to me from the Bible each night. I recall one evening we were on the trail sitting by the campfire. The sky was sprinkled with bright stars. Pa said he could almost imagine angels appearing, singing and praising God.” Noah stared off into the distance. “He went on to say the shepherds were a lot like us. Just ordinary men, camping outside taking care of their livestock.”
Garnet met his gaze. The mixed hues of greens and browns in her eyes darkened. “Pastor Nelson mentioned in the Christmas Eve service last year he thought the reason the angels appeared to the shepherds was to remind us that Jesus came for everyone, even the most ordinary.”
Noah leaned forward. “Why not take the children on a hayride? I bet Mike Montgomery would let us use his wagon.” “We could take them just far enough outside of town they could see the stars. Practicing outside could make it feel more realistic, give it more meaning.”
“You’d best be careful, cousin, I’m about to recruit you to help us with the children during Sunday school.” Emma inclined her head. “Afterwards you can join us for church. Pastor Nelson has a wonderful way of presenting a sermon. Each week I think he has me in mind when he delivers it.”
Noah stared out into the distance. “I’m not one for sitting inside on a hard bench. Out on the trail, different men would take turns bringing the word.” He turned his gaze toward the group and nodded. “Now if the pastor ever decides to preach outside, let me know and I’ll be there.”
“You’re in luck then.” Emma nodded toward several men who were rearranging benches. “Weather permitting, he always has the Thanksgiving service outside.”
Chapter 8
1890 – Rules for Teachers
Women teachers who marry or engage in unseemly conduct will be dismissed.
At first, Noah thought to make an excuse to leave before the pastor began to speak. But Miss Adams’ upturned face, combined with the hovering of the sawmill owner, kept him glued to his seat. Surprisingly, the pastor held his attention, and Noah was shocked he was now calling for the musicians.
Noah straightened. Miss Adams joined the pastor and Mike Montgomery from the livery stable, who offered her his hand to step onto the small platform. Both positioned their instruments on their shoulders and extended their bows. Mike nodded toward the young teacher, then the most beautiful sounds Noah had ever heard exuded.
His breath hitched at the sight. With eyes closed and chin resting on the violin, Miss Adams’ mouth turned upward as though pleased with the added embellishment her fingers made on the strings crooning “Amazing Grace.”
Their arms and shoulders swayed in time to the music, then in silent communication the pair slowed the tune. How many hours must they have practiced, and why do I suddenly feel like punching my friend in the mouth?
The pastor extended his long arms. “In closing, let’s remember the pilgrims risked it all to leave England to gain the freedom to worship. But life in the Netherlands wasn’t easy. They worried about their children’s future and the long-term effects of living in a corrupt and permissive culture. Times were tough. They had a hard time making ends meet. Sound familiar?”
Noah glanced around at the crowd. Dr. and Mrs. Benton and their son B.J. sat transfixed. Mr. Montgomery, the town blacksmith, and his wife shared a glance. His cousin Brian and wife Emma sat surrounded by small girls from her Sunday school class. Most of the boys of similar age sat quietly at his feet. Catching his gaze, one of the younger fellows shot him a snaggletoothed grin.
“The pilgrims sacrificed everything to pursue the Christian life. What would our town look like if we did the same?” The pastor thumped his well-worn Bible. “People are observing your life, whether you realize it or not. They see your work ethic and how you treat others. As pilgrims, we are to maintain a lifestyle of good deeds, even in the face of evil, to give glory to God.”
Miss Adams and Mike placed their violins in position and pulled their bows across the strings crooning a familiar hymn. The pastor's voice broke out in song and others joined in.
“Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine
O what a foretaste of glory divine
Heir of salvation, purchase of God
Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.”
His uncle’s and cousin’s deep bass combined with his aunt’s soft soprano. Noah glanced at the young boys. Four pair of eyes stared at him. He cleared his throat and joined in.
“Perfect submission, all is at rest
I in my Savior am happy and blessed
Watching and waiting, looking above
Filled with His goodness, lost in His love
This is my story, this is my song
Praising my Savior all the day long.”
The preacher pulled out his handkerchief and patted his brow. “As Sheriff Scott comes forward to make our last announcement, with those thoughts in mind, I’d like to issue you all a challenge. Over the next several weeks as we enter the Christmas season, let’s look for ways to share the love of Jesus and shine as lights in the world. I like the way the book of Micah states it. ‘He hath shewed thee, O man what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?’”
~
Several volunteers removed tables and deposited chairs and benches to form seating around a large circular dance area of well-trodden dirt. Garnet glanced toward the setting sun. The conclusion of the festivities would end after an hour of square dancing.
Noah appeared from amongst the crowd. “That was some mighty fine playing.”
“Thank you, deputy.” Mike Montgomery’s voice boomed. “I thought I caught your stare. I figured you either liked the music or were admiring my good looks.” He folded his arms across his chest.
Deputy Scott’s mouth opened and closed before breaking out in a chuckle. “Must have been a little of both.”
Garnet offered a half-smile. “Mr. Montgomery’s going to play the banjo during the square dancing, and I’ll accompany him with my violin.”
“Maybe you can help me convince this young lady of something, Noah.” Mike slapped his hand across the deputy’s shoulder. “I’ve tried to explain when we play ‘Turkey in the Straw,’ or any of these numbers coming up, folks around here call it fiddlin’.”
The clinking of a water glass announced the dancing would begin. The townspeople meandered toward the circle. Noah leaned forward. “Any chance the school board will allow you to participate in the dancing?”
Garnet felt her cheeks burn. “Mr. Weaver convinced the board to allow me to participate during the second half.”
Noah squeezed her hand. “Save me a dance?”
“Certainly.” Her heart fluttered.
The sheriff called out, “Form one circle. Gents keep partners on your right.”
As practiced,
Garnet performed several duets with the livery stable owner. She enjoyed playing the lively melodies, and at Mike’s encouragement, added random trills and extra flourish. At the conclusion, Daniel Lawrence and Mike’s brother, Mark, arrived to continue the music.
The school board chairman, Elton Weaver, stood waiting with his son, Deputy Leo Weaver. He extended his hand to assist her from the platform. “Excellent job, young lady. We appreciate you lending us your talent.”
Garnet’s eyes darted between the chairman and his son. It was apparent the deputy had inherited his father’s square jaw, broad shoulders and height. But the deputy’s blond hair, blue-eyes and easy-going nature were opposites of his father.
“To show my support, my wife suggested I should be seen advocating your opportunity to participate in the dancing.” Mr. Weaver placed two fingers in his mouth and let out a shrill whistle. “Ladies and Gentlemen, Let’s take a moment to thank our musicians for the music.”
The townspeople applauded. Five-year-old Annie squealed happily. “Hoorah for our teacher.”
“Indeed.” Mr. Weaver patted the child’s head. “I would like to go on record as standing in support of Miss Adams joining in the dancing for a few moments.” His jaw clenched. “Providing there are no objections, of course.”
Though immensely grateful for his support, Garnet shuffled her feet. Goodness, the man is intimidating.
“May I have this dance?” The deputy flashed her a smile and tipped his hat displaying golden hair curling slightly above his collar. Not waiting for an answer, he pulled her into the newly forming circle.
The sheriff’s voice called out instructions to the beat of the music. “Ladies, walk three steps to center, curtsy and back to position. Gents, walk three steps to center, honor and back to position.”
Garnet searched the dance floor for Deputy Scott and spotted him as he made his way toward his uncle. The musicians began playing “Turkey in the Straw.” She concentrated on the steps. “All do-si-do partners and corners, swing partners and promenade,” and found herself enjoying the dance immensely.
“Change partners,” the sheriff called. Deputy Scott stepped in front of Garnet and extended his hand. The bow of the fiddle changed pace and became graceful. “I asked Daniel to play a waltz and my uncle to call for the switch.” He grinned and pulled her into his arms. “Leo’s not the only one with allies.”
Chapter 9
1890 – Rules for Teachers
You may not travel outside the city limits
unless you have the permission of the chairman of the board.
“Honestly, Garnet, I don’t understand what you see in the man. Although I agree he’s certainly handsome.” Victoria Wilson tapped a gloved finger along the pane of the church window facing the center of the town. Several men, including Deputy Scott gathered on the boardwalk in front of the general store. “At least as far as one can tell under all his facial hair.” Victoria smoothed her dark hair and repositioned her new hat which perfectly complemented her silk dress. “When I marry, I intend to find a husband who can take care of me in the fashion to which I’m accustomed.”
“Who said anything about marriage? May I remind you it’s against the rules for female teachers to be married.” Garnet returned her violin to its case.
Victoria huffed. “I don’t believe for a single minute you would choose never to marry. You and I may be worlds apart in some things, but we share the same desire to have our own homes one day.” She batted her dark eyelashes. “A man is a necessary commodity to achieve the goal.”
“Right now, a husband is not in my future. I must keep my job to help support my mother.” Garnet stared absently at the white clapboard walls of the sanctuary. “You’re right to some degree. Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamed of having children. I want a large family, at least a half dozen or more.”
“Six or more children? You can’t be serious.” Victoria pivoted. Her skirts rustled as she flounced toward Garnet.
“Quite serious. Perhaps it’s because I was an only child. The Montgomery family is a wonderful example of my ideal household. I’m envious of the relationships that bind the siblings together.”
“It’s not practical to think about raising so many children. Think of the expense.” Victoria clasped her hand over her throat and grimaced. “If you ask me, Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery lack good sense.”
“Hm. Don’t be bitter, Victoria.” Garnet tapped her finger on her mouth. “Wrinkling your face in such a way is sure to cause wrinkles.”
“Bitter? About what?” The raven-haired beauty sputtered.
“You’re still upset that Maggie Montgomery captured the attention of the young doctor you had your cap set for.” Garnet wagged one finger.
“I certainly don’t know what he sees in her.” Victoria shrugged. “Besides, there are other eligible bachelors in town.”
“I’m almost afraid to ask.” Garnet inclined her head toward Victoria’s beaded reticule. “Do you have your list with you?”
“Of course not.” Victoria tapped her forehead. “But I do have a few in mind. Which reminds me, I’d like to offer my help Monday evening when you and the handsome deputy take the children on their excursion.”
Garnet’s mouth opened, then closed. “Your comment seems a little out of character, if not downright suspicious. Why would you do such a thing?”
“The same reason I’m here today. I’m to be part of the Christmas Eve service, am I not? I’ve been to each practice and helped the children learn their parts for the nativity play.” Victoria wrapped her finger around a long dark lock and released it to rest on her shoulder. “Besides, I’ve grown fond of my little angel choir.”
“True and you’ve done wonders with them.” Garnet rested her hand on Victoria’s arm. “You do realize our destination is a pasture?”
~
The wagon rattled along the dusty road and stopped about a half-mile outside of town. Deputy Scott pulled next to Mike Montgomery’s buckboard filled with hay and six young girls who squealed with delight. Victoria Wilson shared the front bench with five-year-old Annie who’d positioned herself next to the driver.
“Mike must have bribed Annie with something to keep her between him and Miss Wilson,” the deputy spoke in a low voice as he jumped from the wagon, then extended his hand to assist Garnet and Emma.
“I know she’s up to something. Didn’t figure a livery stable owner would be her type.” Emma shook her head. “The woman is akin to a spider spinning her web to trap a fly. You’d best watch your step too, Noah.”
“Always.” Noah winked. He turned his attention to the boys who were spilling out of the wagon. “You fellas, gather your things and line up like good shepherds.”
“Deputy Scott,” six-year-old Henry appeared, his red hair and freckles a bright contrast to the gray blanket draped on his head. “Since this is Texas, can we be cowpokes instead? Folks around here don’t take kindly to shepherds.”
“They sure don’t.” Noah rested his hand on the child’s shoulder. “Come to think about it, they weren't popular in Jesus’s time either.” He turned his attention toward the orange glow of the disappearing sun casting light onto the rolling terrain. “Don’t you worry, we’ll be safe enough. Now grab your gear and let’s set up camp.”
Transfixed, Garnet watched in wonder. The boys wearing blankets tied with rope around their heads assisted the men with the campfire. Each boy retrieved a small stack of twigs from the wagon and deposited it on the firepit. Dressed as an innkeeper, Annie put her hand in Deputy Scott’s and beamed.
Garnet stepped to the buckboard and helped Victoria pull white coverings over the other girls' dresses. “Miss Wilson has made something special for each of you. We’ll try them on tonight and then store them at the church for you to wear on Christmas Eve.”
The girls giggled as Victoria and Garnet laid wreaths made from dried flowers on their heads. “Once your headpieces are in place, please join Miss Emma and take your seats on the
haystacks in the wagon. Your position will allow you to view the shepherds as though you are in the sky above.”
Garnet retrieved her violin, then sat with Victoria and Annie on a boulder. Deputy Scott motioned for the boys to sit crosslegged on the ground. He opened his Bible. “Who can tell me what you learned about Mary last week in Sunday school? “
Betsy raised her hand. “An angel showed up and said, ‘surprise.’”
Deputy Scott chuckled. “I reckon that’s true. The angel told Mary she would give birth to a special baby. He would be God in person, in the form of man.”
The reflection of the small fire illuminated the deputy’s blue eyes. He made a circle with his hand toward the young boys. “Fellow shepherds, I want you to imagine you are in a field near Bethlehem, minding your own business watching over your sheep. Maybe it’s a little nippy outside, so you make a fire to warm up.”
Henry’s face puckered. “Fire might scare the wolves off too.” He reached around his head-covering and held up a branch trimmed to serve as a staff. “A shepherd needs lots of weapons.”
Eight-year-old Thomas removed his slingshot from his back pocket. “If we see any wolves after our sheep, y’all club ’em in the head and I’ll use this.”
“He’s good with his slingshot and gets lots of practice at his house, killing rats and mice,” Andrew said proudly of his best friend.
Garnet felt unexpected tears well up while the deputy explained how shepherds needed to be prepared to stand guard day and night. He and the livery stable owner stationed them a safe distance from the fire facing the flat, dusty landscape.
He cleared his throat and read from Luke chapter 2. “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.”
Garnet's Gift Page 4