by R. E. Miller
“No, I would disagree with that,” Charles blurted out.
Mary froze and then lifted her cup to her lips with trembling fingers. “Thank you,” she said after she’d taken a sip of tea.
“I mean it, Mary.” Charles spoke earnestly. “I think you’re a fine woman. You’re mature and healthy and, dare I say, pretty.”
“Please, don’t carry on, sir.”
“Since Elizabeth’s death, I’ve done a lot of soul searching, and I regret spending all my time during my marriage on money. I realize I have all the money I need. What I’m searching for is happiness, companionship, and love, things I’ve yearned for since Elizabeth’s passing. I’d like to think it’s possible to have that again.”
“What about your daughter? She might object to your getting married again.”
“I’ve spoken to Ann more on this trip in a few days than I’ve spoken to her in a long time,” Charles said thoughtfully. “I truly don’t know what she thinks.” He sighed.
Charles stared into the fire and then looked at Mary. “I haven’t been a very good husband or father. I’m partly to blame for the problems I’m having with her. I neglected her when she needed me. She’s changed since her mother’s death. She’s much more independent. Ever since she met Rachel, her life has taken a different direction. She never defied me; now it’s constant. I came here to punish her and yet I don’t know how. She forced me, no she threatened me, that if Rachel didn’t come along she was going to run away. I know she was sincere. I didn’t want to lose her, so I agreed. It seems after wearing me down I always give in. I run businesses, but I don’t know how to deal with my daughter.” His mood turned somber as he stared into the fire.
“I have a lot of respect for you, Charles.” When he didn’t react, she continued. “Even more after hearing you accept some of the blame for the troubles with Ann. And my respect grows as I see you try to do the right thing by her. I’m glad you’ve chosen to come to the lodge. I just hope I haven’t been too forward.”
“No! Not at all.” Charles stood and walked across the room to dampen the fire. “I think it’s time to turn in,” he added after realizing perhaps enough was said.
CHAPTER 4
After only two days, the girls were anxious to do something different, --travel, shop, anything. Charles, noticing the girls boredom, suggested, “Why don’t you walk your letters to Gratztown each day.” They agreed, just so they would have something to do.
On the walk back the second day, Ann made a confession, “Rachel, I think my father is smitten with Mary. He assisted her in the kitchen twice, and when I asked him about it he made up an excuse. I never saw him do anything like that at home.”
“I think your father is lonely, and Mary is an attractive woman.”
Several more days past when Ann admitted, “I don’t want to go to Gratztown anymore. I’m bored with the same routine. When we get back, I’m going to ask father if Lewey can tour us around the area.”
At the lodge Ann approached her father. “Rachel and I were wondering if you would allow Lewey to take us on a tour of the area.”
“Absolutely not, Ann. You’re here as punishment, not sightseeing. Besides this is still rough territory.”
Disappointed yet determined Ann told Rachel, “I’m not giving up, I’ll ask again tomorrow.”
The next morning Ann approached her father again, and again his response was no. That afternoon Ann asked again. Charles glanced at Mary and then back at the girls and with a shrug gave in. “Okay, tomorrow Lewey will take you on some of the local side roads. Until then, find something else to do.”
Both were overjoyed as they went up the stairs, looking at each other and smiling Ann whispered, “That glance tells me he wants to spend time alone with Mary.”
The next day at dinner Charles asked about their tour. Ann knew she had to respond with enthusiasm, “The countryside is so beautiful. I now understand why you built a lodge here and enjoy the peace and quiet away from the city. The people seem so friendly and waved as we passed. I’m sure it is not often a big beautiful coach and team travels in this part of the country. It was a great day out.”
Rachel caught Ann later, “Why did you say such nice things about the tour? You know you weren’t happy with those people starring at us on the trip to nowhere.”
Ann grinned at her friend. “I had to tell my father the good things. He might have been defensive and say no to my next request.”
Despite Charles’ concession, Ann and Rachel were not satisfied; they wanted to be among people and visit different shops in a bigger town. That evening Ann inquired, “Father, I remember seeing a road sign with the name of a town --I think it was Millersburg. What is there?”
Mary quickly responded, “It is bigger than Gratztown with more shops and more to see.”
Ann and Rachel looked at each other and then at Charles. He knew what was coming before they even asked. “Yes, tomorrow Lewey will take you to Millersburg, but I want you home before dark.”
The next day after breakfast Lewey had the team hitched and ready. The day was clear and warm, a perfect autumn day for travel. Inside the coach, the girls were comfortable and dozed during the two hour trip from the lodge. Houses were scattered on both sides of the street as they entered town. The street led into an open area resembling a square and most of the businesses were located there.
A disappointed Ann was the first to comment: “It isn’t much bigger than Gratztown.”
Rachel agreed with Ann’s assessment but added, “There are a few more shops; let’s walk around.”
Ann nodded and hit on the coach roof signaling Lewey who immediately stopped. As she opened the door of the coach, “Lewey, we are going to walk around the town. Please pull over.”
When they stepped down and looked around, Rachel saw a river to the west, “That river looks as wide as any in Philadelphia. What’s the name of it?”
Lewey, still on the coach answered, “It’s called the Susquehanna. The town is situated along the river and the Wiconisco Creek. I know there is a railroad to the south of town that hauls anthracite coal to the barges on the river for distribution.”
Looking at him, Ann questioned, “Were you here before?”
“Yes, I’ve had your father here several times. He was interested in the possibility of a business.”
“What kind of a name is Susquehanna?” Rachel asked.
“It’s Indian,” Lewey informed them and then added, “We must leave for the lodge by three o’clock. That allows you about four hours.”
“I think we can see everything before that. We might be ready by two,” Ann said with a roll of her eyes. Rachel agreed.
“I’ll pick you up at this same spot,” Lewey said.
As they looked around the center of town, they saw a tavern and two merchant stores. Walking south toward the creek, Rachel noticed a change in the surroundings. “This area is more dilapidated and dirty; I don’t think we need to go any further. I don’t want to see a grist mill or smell the tanneries.”
“Let’s turn around. I’m getting hungry, and I don’t want to eat in that tavern,” Ann said pointing to a run-down establishment.
Walking back to the tavern in the town square, Rachel noticed a barge down at the river. “Look, Ann, people are getting on board, and they are loading supplies. Perhaps we can walk down and watch.”
Ann didn’t seem too interested and had her own plans. “Perhaps,” she shot back.
Her tone angered Rachel, she remembered what Tom had called Ann: little rich girl. She soon shrugged it off knowing she was just along for the ride. As they continued walking toward the tavern, Rachel could see sycamore trees aligning the river front and a few benches were scattered throughout. It reminded her of her own neighborhood.
Leaving the tavern after lunch Ann commented, “Did you see those gentlemen across from me? I thought surely the handsome one was going to invite himself to our table.”
“He made the right decision,”
Rachel interjected still slightly annoyed. “I’m not in the mood for any of your admirers today.”
Changing the subject Rachel said, “I saw a dress and hat shop we should visit. I’d like to compare fashions.”
The four hours were approaching fast, and the trip was coming to an end as they saw Lewey pull the coach into the square.
“Mary was right; Millersburg is bigger but not much more to do than in Gratztown,” admitted a disappointed Ann.
Meanwhile Charles took advantage of the girl’s absence and asked Mary to go for a walk. As they walked, it took some time for Charles to take Mary’s hand, and she didn’t resist. “Mary, spending time with you these past few days has made me realize what a wonderful woman you are. I’ve never seen you this way before.”
As they continued walking toward the lodge Charles decided it was time to kiss Mary hoping again she wouldn’t resist. Mary in fact returned the kiss, which pleased him immensely.
The moment quickly ended as they heard the coach approaching. As the two girls stepped down, Charles was first to ask, “How was your trip?”
“Father, Mary was right. Millersburg is not much different than Gratztown. We didn’t make any purchases, but it was enjoyable.”
Then Charles looked at Rachel hoping for a response.
“I did enjoy the scenery and the river,” as she glanced at Ann. “It was a nice day out. Thank you for allowing us to go.”
When dinner ended, he again helped Mary with cleanup. To him it was no longer a chore for he enjoyed her company.
Rachel retired to their bedroom to write to Tom and her mother. Ann remained present observing a change in her father and Mary. They seemed to be getting closer, kidding and laughing with each other. For the first time since her mother’s death Ann could see her father was happy. The remainder of the evening was quite enjoyable; all three sat by the fire. Charles and Ann reminisced about her childhood and growing up in Philadelphia.
“Mary, you didn’t know that Ann is quite a good pianist. She always entertained our guests.”
Mary smiled at Ann. “Perhaps one day I will have the chance to hear you play.” “Mother had me playing the piano as soon as my little hands could reach the keys. She was insistent on my practicing each day.” As she spoke of her mother, Ann’s eyes blurred with tears.
Seeing her tears and trying to comfort his daughter, Charles said, “I know you and your mother were extremely close, and she will always be an important part of your life. I miss her too.”
Charles was hoping if a relationship developed with Mary that she and Ann could become close. He didn’t want any bitterness between them.
Listening intently, Mary wondered what life was like in their social circle.
After a few days, Charles was positive the girls would again become restless, but this time he knew exactly how to answer their request. A few days earlier while Ann and Rachel were still in their room, Charles had discussed his plan with Mary. “If I told you we were going deer hunting would that be a punishment to you?”
“Yes, it would.” She laughed as she turned the bacon on the stove. “Why do you ask?” She hoped he wouldn’t ask her to go along.
Smiling at Mary he teased, “Don’t look concerned; I’m talking about Ann. Ever since I told you I don’t know how to punish her, I’ve been pondering what to do. The lodge is a hunting lodge. I have come here to hunt many times. I’m going to insist she go hunting with me.”
Looking relieved as she sat down, Mary added, “What about Rachel?”
“I’ve been contemplating what to do about Rachel,” he remarked staring into his tea cup with a bewildered look. “Do you think I should insist she go?”
Looking directly at Charles, then putting her hand on his, “I don’t know what to tell you, but it would be quite an experience and punishment.”
“Mary, that’s it, an experience.” Now he took Mary’s hand and squeezed it. “I’m going to insist Rachel go for the experience.”
Just as he had predicted, a few days later when Ann complained of boredom, he declared, “I have a splendid idea. I’ve been holding off mentioning it but the weather is perfect, and it is now time for us to go deer hunting.”
The girls stared at Charles in disbelief.
“Yes us, both of you and me,” he announced with a grin.
This time he was insistent, hoping it might stifle their desire for adventure.
Rachel quickly remarked, “I have nothing to wear for hunting. I can’t go in a dress, so I guess I can’t go.”
Looking subdued, Ann agreed.
Charles then told them, “Tomorrow you will go to Gratztown and purchase men’s pants, long underwear, and boots.”
“You’re not serious, are you?” Rachel asked.
“Yes, I’m serious. It’ll be fun,” He smiled as he looked at the two. “It will.”
Rachel turned toward Ann as she shook her head and wondered why she too was being punished.
Charles again reiterated, “This will be an adventure for all of us. One you will not forget.”
Everyone could see Rachel’s anger as she excused herself and went up the steps.
Ann, still in shock, looked at her father, “Why are you so insistent on us going hunting with you?”
Charles let his irritation show. “I’m paying Rachel to accompany you, and since you’re going, she must go as well.”
Ann asked to be excused.
As Ann entered the room, Rachel was still fuming. “I want you to talk your father out of this. I didn’t come here to go hunting,” she complained as she paced in front of her bed.
“I didn’t either, but he is insisting that we go.” Now they were angry at each other.
After the anger subsided there was no conversation for the remainder of the evening. Ann turned in early, and Rachel expressed her anger on paper as she wrote to Tom.
The next morning Rachel insisted Ann ask her father about the deer hunting again. “If I would’ve known we were going to have to go hunting, I wouldn’t have agreed to come.”
“I’ll ask, but I think his mind is made up.”
Mary was already serving breakfast to Charles and Lewey when they appeared. Both girls displayed no anger as they sat down, but neither smiled. A moment or two passed when Rachel nudged Ann.
“Father, this hunting escapade you discussed, you really weren’t serious?”
“Oh yes, I want you to purchase the clothing you need to stay warm. Early tomorrow morning we’re going.”
Again their mood turned sour and neither spoke. After breakfast they dressed for the walk to Gratztown.
It was snowing lightly as they walked to town for their hunting attire. Rachel complained all the way. “I didn’t come here to go hunting, and now it’s snowing on top of everything.”
“It might be fun,” Ann told her friend.
Rachel gave her a stare.
As they entered the store, the clerk beamed; he was glad to see them. They made their request and he directed them to the clothes.
Ann inquired, “Is there a dressing room available.”
This surprised him; he had to think for a moment, and then proceeded to do some shuffling of the merchandise and boxes. “There, is that adequate?”
They looked at each other and the area he had prepared. “It’s okay,” said Rachel in a disgruntled voice.
They had picked out several pair of long underwear and pants. Ann went first, undressing while Rachel watched. She put on the first pair of long underwear which was way too short, and Rachel burst out laughing at how she looked.
“I look that bad?”
“I can’t help it; you look so funny.” Rachel could hardly speak through the laughter.
Ann couldn’t help but laugh either. She finally found a pair that fit. Then it was Rachel’s turn.
Hearing the laughter the clerk came closer and asked, “Is there anything I can help you with?”
Rachel yelled, “You stay right there, mister! We’re fine.
”
They giggled and joked the entire time they tried on the clothing. After about an hour they finally found outfits that satisfied them. They decided to wear the new outfits back to the lodge.
As they walked Rachel looked at Ann, “You look like a hunter with your boots and your hat. I can even see you carrying a musket.”
“Well you look pretty dapper yourself,” Ann exclaimed.
They joked and laughed all the way back to the lodge. Rachel now accepted her fate. She had no choice but to try and make the best of it.
They went to the stable first to get Lewey’s opinion. “How do we look?” Ann inquired.
He looked at both for a moment. “Oh yes, that will do fine,” he uttered never cracking a smile.
Now the big test: showing Mary and Charles. As they entered, they caught the two holding hands, snuggled together. They broke quickly when they saw the girls.
“Well, Father, this is how we’re going. Do you approve?”
“You wore the outfits from Gratztown, and you feel warm?”
“Yes, I do,” said Ann.
“And you Rachel”
“I’m very comfortable and warm,” Rachel acknowledged.
“Well that should do then,” Charles responded.
At dinner Charles announced the departure time for hunting. “I’ll wake you at five o’clock, you best get to bed early.”
Ann asked, “Five o’clock. Why so early?”
Charles explained, “The deer move at daybreak, and a good hunter must be in the woods before they stir.”
“Dress as warm as you possibly can; perhaps an extra shirt may help,” instructed Charles.
In anticipation of the hunt and unable to sleep, Charles awoke at four thirty and went into the bath area before waking the girls. He gently tapped on Mary’s door to awaken her to start breakfast. Now it was time to wake his hunting companions.
He went into their room and in a quiet voice shook each of them, “Ann, it’s time to get awake. Rachel, wake up!”
The girls came down in their nightclothes and slipped into the bath area.
Mary was already in the process of preparing breakfast. As they sat down to eat, it was obvious Rachel was not happy to be up so early, but she didn’t say a word. Ann was just glad she didn’t make a fuss.