Hold on to your Dreams

by Beryl Matthews

  ‘There’s grazing, and fields for crops,’ Jack jumped in eagerly, ‘and the soil’s not bad. The owner, Mr Botha, showed us his records, and when the land is worked properly it makes a nice profit.’

  ‘Any water?’

  ‘Yes, sir, there’s a well near the house, and a small lake about a mile further on. The place has been neglected lately, and the house needs a lot of work done on it. Mr Botha just wants to get out, that’s why he’d be willing to take a reasonable offer. He told us he wouldn’t talk money with us because we were a couple of penniless soldiers, but when we told him about you, he said he’d discuss it with you, if you were interested.’

  Alex nodded. ‘Be mounted and ready to leave at eight in the morning, and don’t wear uniforms, but come armed. I have permission for you to accompany me.’

  ‘We’ll be ready, and thank you.’ Edward still couldn’t believe Glendale was here, even though he was sitting opposite them, clean shaven now. ‘I didn’t expect you to take any notice of my letter, let alone come all this way.’

  ‘I never buy anything unless I examine it first.’ Alex eyed the men in front of him. ‘You didn’t think I would just send you money, did you?’

  The implication of his words was clear, and Edward bristled. ‘I don’t gamble now.’

  ‘That’s right,’ Jack told him. ‘He won’t even look at a pack of cards.’

  ‘I’m relieved to hear it, but that isn’t what I meant. I want to make sure it’s a sound investment, and the only way I can do that is by seeing it for myself.’

  ‘You’ll like it, sir.’

  ‘We’ll see. Congratulations on your VC, Edward. Your mother’s very proud of you, and it has helped a great deal with her recovery.’

  ‘Without the mess I left them in she wouldn’t have become ill.’ His mouth was set in a grim line. ‘I’m never going to be able to forgive myself for that. I’ve ruined three lives – four if I count my own.’

  ‘Their situation is improving, and you are making an effort to pull your life together. Joining the army is turning out to be a wise move on your part.’ Alex stood up. ‘Now I must get some sleep. Write to your mother, Edward.’

  He nodded.

  ‘Thanks for helping us, sir,’ Jack said.

  ‘I haven’t done anything yet. If I don’t like the property I’ll go straight back to London. It’s too early to raise your hopes.’

  ‘No sir, of course not.’ Once outside, Jack grinned. ‘I don’t care what he says, there’s no way he’s made this journey if he doesn’t intend to buy that land for us.’

  ‘Don’t be too sure. He’s one of the wealthiest men in England, and he and his family didn’t get that way by throwing money away on lost causes. He could take one look and just ride away.’

  ‘Nah.’ Jack shook his head. ‘He’s got a vulnerable spot, and that’s your family. I saw it in his eyes when he talked about them. He won’t walk away because it will make them happy to know you’ve made a future for yourself.’

  ‘You’re ever the optimist.’ Edward laughed, relieved now the interview was over. ‘We’ll see tomorrow who’s right.’

  They were on their way by first light. Edward and Jack had told Alex where the farm was, but he took a detour.

  ‘Er … where are we going, sir? The property’s in that direction.’ Jacked pointed to his right.

  ‘I know, but we’re going to do a bit of scouting for the commander first.’

  ‘Told you he wasn’t here just for us,’ Edward muttered.

  For the next two hours they followed Alex as he drew maps and made notes about a certain area. Fortunately they didn’t run into any trouble, and Jack breathed a sigh of relief when the scouting mission was completed and they were heading for the farm.

  ‘You sure he isn’t back in the army, Ed?’ Jack whispered. ‘They were pretty accurate maps he’s been drawing. Perhaps they’re going to use him as a spy, and that’s why he isn’t in uniform.’

  ‘I really don’t know, and he certainly wouldn’t tell us. Let’s hope he isn’t using the excuse to look at our land as a cover, and has no intention of buying it.’

  ‘Oh, don’t say that, Ed. I really want this place.’

  ‘Me too.’ They rode in silence for the rest of the way, both wondering what was going to happen.

  Alex made no comment as they rode through the gate and up to the house.

  The owner came out holding a rifle. ‘Ah, it’s you at last! I’d just about given up hope of seeing you again.’

  ‘Sorry it’s been so long, Mr Botha, but they moved us to another area for a while. We only returned to Ladysmith a week ago.’ Edward dismounted. ‘This is Major Glendale, and he’d like to inspect the property.’

  ‘With your permission, of course, sir. And I’m no longer in the army. I don’t use the rank.’ Alex stepped forward and shook hands with the owner.

  ‘Come into the house first. You must all be thirsty after your ride.’

  After accepting a refreshing fruit drink made by the owner, they mounted up and all rode out to see the property. Edward and Jack were content to let Alex ask all the questions.

  ‘He knows what he’s talking about,’ Jack remarked, approvingly. ‘But for the life of me I can’t tell if he likes the place or not.’

  ‘Nor me, but from the thorough way he’s going into everything, it looks as if he really is serious about it, and not just here to scout for the army. I hope he’s impressed, because after seeing it again, I want it more than ever.’

  ‘And me. We could make a good life here, Ed. Look at that glorious blue sky, and all this space. It’s heaven compared to smoky London.’

  The inspection over, they arrived back at the house and dismounted. Alex came over to them. ‘Two things you need to consider before we go any further with this. You will encounter hostility if you settle here, even if the war’s over. And this place is very isolated. Are you prepared to take the chance, work hard, and try your best to make this farm a viable proposition?’

  ‘Yes, sir!’ they said in unison.

  He nodded to the two eager men. ‘Stay here while I see what kind of a deal I can do with the owner.’

  It was an anxious hour, and they rubbed down the horses, watered them, and did anything to pass the time, except talk. Eventually the door opened, and the two men came out, both smiling.

  The owner turned to Alex and held out his hand. ‘Thank you, Mr Glendale. I’ll meet you a week from now.’

  ‘I’ll see you then.’ He mounted, and without speaking to Edward and Jack, rode towards the gates.

  ‘How did it go, sir?’ Jack couldn’t contain himself any longer.

  ‘The property has potential, but you’ll have to work damned hard to make it profitable. It’s been sorely neglected.’

  ‘We’re not afraid of hard work, sir. Are we, Ed?’

  ‘Does this mean you’re going to help us buy it?’ Edward was almost afraid to breathe, in case the hope flaring inside him was taken away.

  ‘I’ve purchased the property on your behalf.’

  Jack gave a yelp of delight.

  ‘You won’t be able to take over here until you’ve served your time with the army, and this war’s over. I’m going to put a caretaker in to look after the place until then. Mr Botha knows of an elderly man who will be pleased to do that for us. Once you start working the property you’ll have a year to make a profit before you need to start repaying me the purchase price. I won’t charge you any interest, and as soon as you’ve paid half the amount, I’ll deed the property over to the two of you.’

  ‘How much did you get it for, sir?’ Jack asked.

  ‘The owner’s so anxious to leave he didn’t even try to negotiate a better price. I started low, and he accepted. That’s all you need to know for the time being, but from what I’ve seen of the place you shouldn’t have any difficulty paying off the loan. Once put into good, productive order, it will be worth twice the price I paid for it. I’ll send you full details in writin
g on my return to London.’

  Edward was stunned. ‘That’s a very generous offer. Are you prepared to wait that long for your money?’

  ‘I’ll lose nothing by waiting. It’s a fine place. I’ve offered Mr Botha free passage to London on one of my ships, and he’ll be able to bring all of his possessions with him. The Falcon will be returning for me in eight days. That should give us enough time to settle the caretaker in before we leave.’

  ‘Oh, I’ll bet he jumped at that offer, sir.’ Jack smiled happily at his friend.

  ‘He did. And now you two make sure you come out of this conflict alive.’

  Chapter Thirty-Nine

  The weather at the end of July was glorious; the sun was shining with the trees and flowers showing their full glory. It was three months since Alex had sailed away, and David was becoming more and more worried. Not knowing what was going on, or what Alex was doing in South Africa, was driving him to distraction.

  ‘It’s no use you going on like this,’ Hanna told him over dinner. ‘Alex is still a soldier at heart, and I’ve no doubt he’ll want to see what’s going on out there. When are you expecting the Falcon back?’

  ‘Any time now. She should have been back two weeks ago, but something must have delayed her.’

  ‘Perhaps she’s been waiting for Alex. After all, he does own her and can order the captain to do anything he asks. He might be on her now.’

  ‘Let’s hope so. He should be here, not gallivanting around the world. The Ocean Sprite is moving along faster than expected, and it’s like pouring money down a well.’

  Ah, that’s what’s worrying him, Gertrude recognised. ‘What do the other partners think about it, David?’

  He shrugged. ‘They don’t seem to mind.’

  ‘Then you ought to stop worrying. Alex has put you in charge while he’s away, and he’s able to do that because he trusts your judgement.’

  ‘I know, Gertie.’ He gave a wry smile. ‘It makes me nervous spending other people’s money.’

  ‘I would consider that a splendid thing to do,’ Hanna joked, making them all laugh. ‘You’ve all done a wonderful job, and I’m sure he’ll be pleased. The difference in the ship is remarkable, and it’s all due to you, David.’

  ‘I’ve had lots of help, Hanna.’

  ‘That’s so,’ Sutton agreed, ‘but it’s your expertise and management skills that have been the driving force. You should be proud of what you’ve achieved.’

  The worry cleared from his face and he smiled. ‘She does look good, doesn’t she? I can’t wait to see her under sail, but that’s still a way off yet.’

  ‘How is the riding school coming along?’ Florence asked her daughter.

  ‘We’ve received a message to say it is nearly ready, and the first children should be able to go there in August. I’ve already got a list of youngsters who have asked me if they can go, with May and Johnny at the top, of course.’

  ‘And the older boys are already clamouring to sail on the Ocean Sprite as soon as she’s ready.’ David’s eyes shone with amusement. ‘There’s a danger of fights breaking out, so I’ve told them Alex will decide who goes on the first voyage. His word is law, but everyone will be given a chance.’

  Sutton laughed. ‘You’ve dumped the responsibility on Alex.’

  ‘Do you blame me?’

  ‘I wonder if he’s seen Edward while he’s been out there,’ Florence said, changing the subject.

  ‘It’s a big country, my dear,’ Sutton pointed out gently. ‘I wouldn’t think it likely.’

  ‘No, of course not.’ She smiled at everyone around the table. ‘I received a letter yesterday, and he’s doing well in the army.’

  Gertrude was pleased a letter had finally arrived. It made no mention of Alex, but she did wonder if they had met. She kept those thoughts to herself, though. Her mother was now well again, and the doctor had assured them that her recovery was quite remarkable.

  ‘Have you asked Miriam to marry you yet, David?’ Hanna asked bluntly.

  He sat back, looking pleased with himself. ‘As a matter of fact I have, and she’s said yes. Her parents have given permission as long as we wait until next spring.’

  ‘That’s wonderful!’ Gertrude was the first to congratulate her friend. ‘And when were you going to tell us?’

  ‘I was working up to it. I only asked her parents last night.’ The evening turned into a celebration.

  Gertrude was startled when the office door burst open and David hurtled past her, running full pelt.

  ‘Oooh.’ May watched the retreating figure of her favourite man. ‘In a hurry.’

  Millie tumbled out next, locking the door behind her. ‘Hello, I’m glad you’re here, Miss. You’re just in time.’

  ‘What’s all the hurry, Millie? I’m taking May and Johnny to see the Ocean Sprite, and David never even stopped to say hello.’

  ‘Someone’s just brought news that the Falcon’s coming in.’

  Jumping up and down with excitement, Johnny grabbed hold of Gertrude’s sleeve. ‘Can we go and see? Lord might be on it.’

  ‘Which dock?’ she asked. ‘And would it be all right if we all come?’

  ‘Course, they’ll be quite a crowd. David’s dad’s gone to tell everyone working on the ship. If he’s on board we want to give him a noisy welcome home.’

  She picked up May. ‘Follow me, I know where to go.’

  Gertrude wasn’t sure it was wise to spread the news, because there were going to be a lot of disappointed people if Alex wasn’t on the Falcon. Including her.

  The dock was already crowded with people, and the Falcon was moving into place by the time they arrived. It was chaos, with men running around and shouting at each other as they made the ship secure. David was right at the front, but they couldn’t get near him through the milling crowd, and Gertrude felt it was safer to keep the children at the back. She held tightly to Johnny in case he tried to slip away. Millie was still holding May, so the little girl was safe.

  She scanned the deck, trying to see any sign of Alex, but with so much movement on board, it was hard to pick anyone out.

  ‘Is he there?’ Johnny was pulling on her restraining hands. ‘I can’t see!’

  ‘I don’t know …’

  ‘There he is!’ Millie yelled above the noise.

  ‘Where? Where?’

  ‘There, over to the right. He’s home!’ Millie was beside herself with excitement, and the little girl was copying her as she waved frantically.

  ‘Oh, yes.’ Gertrude’s throat clogged with emotion. There was no mistaking the tall, dark-haired figure, leaning on the rail.

  ‘I can’t see! I’m too short. I wanna see him!’ Johnny was doing his best to get away from her. ‘We’re too far back!’

  She bent down and lifted the boy as high as she could. He was heavy, but she didn’t mind. He was so desperate to see Alex, and she knew how much he’d waited for this day. It had seemed like a lifetime to the little boy.

  ‘He’s back!’ May was still waving as hard as she could.

  The workers from the Ocean Sprite were now streaming on to the dock, and Millie grinned. ‘Look at Fred, he’s got right up with David somehow. Sir’s not gonna expect a welcome like this!’

  It was another twenty minutes before anyone could disembark, and Alex was the first off. Everyone was waving, smiling and shouting, ‘Welcome home, sir!’

  Johnny fought to be put down, and Gertrude was unable to hold on to him any longer. He was off, dodging in and out of the crowd until he reached Alex. She saw him being swung up in the air, and the joy on his face brought tears to her eyes.

  Millie was also moving forward with May, but Gertrude stayed where she was. She didn’t want him to see the emotion and relief she felt at his return. It would take just a few moments to compose herself, she thought, dabbing her eyes with a handkerchief, then she’d go and greet him.

  The crowd was clearing a little now, as everyone from the Ocean Sprite returned t
o their work. She could see as little May reached out and hugged him, then held her arms out to David. He laughingly took her from Millie. It was only then she realised there was someone else with him. He was a middle-aged man who was looking thoroughly bemused by all the excitement.

  Alex began scanning the people and his gaze soon fixed on Gertrude. She smiled and waved, making no attempt to move towards him. He said something to the man with him, then to David. After putting Johnny down and talking to him for a few moments, he straightened up and strode towards her. She waited, loving the sight of him, and the easy way he moved.

  ‘Welcome home, Alex,’ she said as soon as he reached her. ‘Everyone’s so pleased to see you.’

  ‘But are you pleased to see me, Gertie?’

  ‘Pleased and relieved,’ she admitted.

  ‘In that case, you had better marry me.’

  ‘Are you proposing?’ She was so taken aback she wasn’t sure she’d heard correctly. The unloading was under way, and it was still bedlam on the dock.

  ‘Would you like me to go down on one knee?’

  ‘No!’ She caught hold of his hand when he looked as if he was going to do just that. They had far too many spectators.

  Curling his long fingers around her hand, he said, ‘Will you marry me, Gertie?’

  ‘Yes!’ Such a simple answer to a question she never thought he’d ask again. And that one little word was about to change her whole life. She thought she would burst with happiness.

  ‘At last!’ he laughed. ‘Thank you, my darling. I’ll speak to your parents this evening.’

  ‘It will only be a formality. They’ll be so happy.’

  He held her briefly and kissed her cheek, sighing. ‘That will have to do for the moment. I’m sorry to have to rush off, but there are things I must attend to. I’ll call around seven, if that’s convenient?’

  ‘Perfect. Shall I tell my parents you will be joining us for dinner?’

  ‘I would enjoy that, and there’s much to discuss.’

  All the others had joined them, and Alex turned to the man who had come with him. ‘Mr Botha, I’d like you to meet my fiancée, Gertrude Melrose.’