The Visitor 1862

by Barbara Svetlick

  “Jacob.” Garnett’s smile did not make it to his eyes. “It’s always good to see a classmate. Are you passing through or looking for southern sympathizers?”

  The colonel frowned slightly. Even though Natchez appeared to be a neutral town, the Army had received word that many of the residents were southern sympathizers. “I am here at the request of the President to make sure that supplies are secured for the Army though I am surprised that neither of you has offered your services to the nation at this difficult time.”

  “This war is for a young man. I believe we have provided enough service to our country in the Western territories.”

  “You do not believe that your President needs your expertise at this time of need?”

  James lit his cigar and then blew smoke toward Colonel Smith. “We hold no sides in this dispute and the President seems to have enough good men to succeed in this war.”

  “Succeed he will and those who oppose his commands will be caught and punished.”

  “Still enforcing the infractions Jacob?”

  “Don’t push your luck James. I have full authority to arrest anyone I believe is a sympathizer. We have received rumors of southern buildup around Vicksburg in an attempt to ward off the use of the river to reach the south.”

  “Well, if you are going to hunt for southern sympathizers around Vicksburg you might consider taking off that uniform. I understand that they sit in the trees along the Natchez Trail and practice their marksmanship on scouts that ride through.” Garnett knew that Jacob never took off his uniform; in fact, there were rumors that he probably slept in it.

  James laughed as he started down the stairs and Garnett tipped his hat leaving Colonel Smith scowling as he went into the Tavern. They stopped at the street then went separate directions knowing that he would have already assigned a tail on all of them. It was an irritation but one they had expected when they received word that the Army was sending scouts to Natchez.

  DOMINIC was standing in the foyer putting on his leather gloves when he looked up as Mirisa was descending the stairs. She was wearing a dark green dress that was simply cut with no lace or other ornaments; her hair was tied back with a big bow which highlighted the red glow of her curls. It must be a new styled because it didn’t have the voluminous petticoats and instead followed the contour of her body as it draped around her then billowed out into a soft skirt. He wanted to make her take it off because if it had that kind of effect on him he knew what it would do to his friends. He stepped up to the stair case and reached out as she stepped on the last step. She looked at him seeking some type of approval.

  “Why are you frowning? Is it not appropriate? The seamstress said it makes me more mature.”

  “The color makes your eyes more intriguing than usual. I just don’t know if I want every man in the room thinking what I am at this moment.”

  Mirisa didn’t know why she was trying so hard or what she would do if she pushed his limit of control. She could not separate him from her dreams or her dreams from reality. “Shall I change? Though all of my new gowns are similar.”

  “No, I want you to marry me.”

  She faltered and took a step back. He smiled then went into the library taking something out of his desk drawer. He walked up to her and slipped it around her neck. She touched it with her fingertips but could not see the very small teardrop shaped emerald.

  He held up her wrap, took her arm and escorted her to the carriage. The ride to the Ross home was short but they were stopped in the road as the buggy of the young man who worked at the General Store turned into the drive. Dominic had the coachman stop and spoke to him briefly before returning to the carriage. She noted that his mood seemed to have changed but she made no inquiry.

  As their carriage slowly worked its way up the driveway of the home, Mirisa had pangs of homesickness like never before. The house was decorated with hundreds of lanterns, evergreens and ribbon tied fruit wreathes. She could hear the holiday music and the laughter of the guests as the carriage stopped at the front door. He helped her out of the carriage and watched as she absently touched the stone then looked at him.

  The inside of the home was so rich and beautiful. It gave off a feeling of love and warmth that wrapped around Mirisa. She was so mesmerized as Dominic handed their cloaks to the butler that she didn’t realize the room had come to a complete silence. He leaned towards her and reassured her that they were just stunned by her beauty which made her blush. As they walked into the room, the other guests returned to their conversations though they followed them with intense curiosity.

  The Ross home was one of the largest on the river outside of Natchez itself. It was built by Dr. Ross for his bride and their hopes of having a large family. Even though they never saw their dream come to light, they always opened their home to friends and most of the balls of their day were held in their home.

  In the smaller room off the ballroom was a large opulent buffet of turkey, fresh goose, quail, aged hams and fried chicken. The kitchen help were setting out bowls of crawfish and fish jambalaya which filled the air with the spices that Mirisa had learned to love in the short time she had lived at the Plantation. Mrs. Ross saw Dominic and Mirisa and immediately excused herself from her guests. She greeted them by holding her hand up to Dominic who took her fingers lightly, bowing slightly before she turned her attention on Mirisa.

  “Darling, thank you for accepting our hospitality. Your beauty is truly breathtaking. Truly breathtaking! There is plenty to eat and the musicians are just now setting up for another round of dancing. It should be an absolutely lovely evening.” She flittered off when she saw another couple leaving Mirisa standing there with her mouth open. Mrs. Ross was a very robust woman with a lot of hair that had a slight blue tint to it and it became obvious that she never stopped talking.

  Dominic saw Mr. Ross near the veranda talking to several men when their eyes met and acknowledged the problem. He spoke to Mirisa before starting to circulate the room introducing her to the guests she had not met at Thanksgiving. He was used to drawing attention but could tell by the way she held his arm that she was still apprehensive of her reception by total strangers. The men in the room were more than gracious when introduced and many told her stories about her father.

  When they reached Suzanna she smiled sweetly as she introduced the man talking to her, Colonel Jacob Smith of the U.S. Army serving at the pleasure of the President. Dominic extended his hand and welcomed him to Natchez. He didn’t know what game Suzanna was playing but she had no idea of the extent Colonel Smith would go to use her or anyone else as a cover for his real mission. The dossier on Colonel Smith since his graduation was more than disturbing and his recklessness made Dominic very nervous. When the Colonel turned to Mirisa she visibly shrunk back wondering why these people would offer their hospitality to soldiers who were fighting her family. The war up to this point was abstract but this man with his wide smirk made her skin crawl.

  Colonel Smith turned back to Dominic. “It has been a long time since VMI, it is good to see you again but I was surprised to learn that you resigned your commission.”

  “Years out west takes its toll even on the most dedicated soldier and my Plantation has suffered from my absence.”

  “Interesting that all four of you made the same decision.”

  “We did but for different reasons.”

  “And yet I arrive here in this beautiful town to find all of you together again.” He turned back to Mirisa. “It is a pleasure to meet you Miss Eppes. I hope you are enjoying your stay in Natchez as much as I am.” Mirisa nodded but was unable to respond and wondered if Suzanna had told him her name since Dominic had not as yet introduced them formally. “I had the great pleasure of accepting your parents’ hospitality while I was a cadet with your older brother Tom. I believe you were a mere child at the time but you seem to have blossomed into a beautiful young lady.” He let his words sink in before he continued. “I was recently in Pennsylvania visiting his farm for a
procurement of fine horses and he is proudly holding the rank of Captain. One of the better men to come out of VMI. You must be very proud of both of your brothers.”

  Mirisa tightened her grip on Dominic’s arm only slightly before she willed herself to not reveal her current distress. Dominic was well aware of the split in her family’s allegiances’ and preferred not to have her exposed to Jacob’s needling. He asked her if she would like refreshments but before she could respond the musicians started to play the Prima Donna Waltz and everyone clapped their hands and took their place on the dance floor. Colonel Smith excused himself as he led Suzanna onto the dance floor. The next dance was the Soldier’s Joy which was a dance that had been around as long as Mirisa could remember. A young man walked up and asked Dominic if he could ask Mirisa to dance and Dominic nodded. She changed partners throughout the night and the dancing was lively. When the San Souci stopped she was out of breath and thanked her partner hoping to make it off the floor before being approached again.

  The musicians started up a slow Waltz and before she turned around she found herself in Dominic’s arms. He held her closer then was normal for the waltz and he didn’t talk at all but she kept hearing his words over and over. His eyes never left her face nor did anyone take their eyes off of them while they rounded the floor. He was an amazingly graceful dancer who displayed a reckless manner regarding her reputation.

  Garnett stood up against the fireplace with a whisky in one hand and his cigar in the other. He wondered whether or not Dominic could uphold his promises to her father to protect her from the bad men especially since the bad men were the ones protecting her. He was sorry that he would not have the opportunity to pursue her because he could tell she would be very easy to love. The dance stopped and he slowly pulled her closer causing her to start not knowing his intention. The entire room was enthralled by his behavior and her beauty. Another line dance began and Colonel Smith appeared at her elbow as Dominic conceded and left the dance floor.

  “Dominic, is there something you have not shared with your friends?” Meeks was trying to decide why he was actually putting her reputation in jeopardy. “She is striking and one who might be able to change my ways but I have never known you to be smitten with such a young woman to whom you have been entrusted to protect with probably your life as well as your honor.”

  “Shut up Meeks!” Garnett snarled under his breath causing a roar of laughter at his obvious crankiness that she was off limits.

  The couples crossed to the center of the floor and bowed. “Miss Eppes, I am told that your father has taken up allegiance with the South after having assured the President of his allegiance to the Army.” The line stepped back and did it once more before changing sides of the line as they twirled around their partner.

  “Colonel, I believe your information may be correct.” They continued as the line went through its steps. Suzanna who was at the end of the line frowned when she saw them conversing knowing that the little snippet was trying to steal him away from her. Suzanna felt so out of fashion compared the slim beautiful dress that Mirisa was wearing.

  “I understand that they are with the Virginia Calvary pinned down in Fredericksburg.” He smiled then twirled her away.

  “I would not know, sir. I have been in Natchez for the last year.” Each time he touched her she felt revulsion sweep over her and he could see it.

  “I am sure it is not true that you do not know.” He smirked and they separated as the line turned.

  “Believe what you want.” She knew she was reacting and that he was taking great pleasure in making her uneasy knowing she would not make a scene in public.

  “Then pray tell why would they send you, their only daughter, to Mississippi rather than your grandmother’s home in Philadelphia where you would be under the protection of the President?” He twirled her back into the line.

  “Because sir, I am here to be married.” He stopped in mid-step and had trouble getting back in line. Dominic could not determine the subject of their conversation but the men all watched intently.

  Garnett took a puff on his cigar and exhaled slowly. “From the look on her face, I do believe that he has made her mad but missing his cue like that I would say her retort must have been good.”

  Meeks laughed. “Never did like that little weasel. Maybe it would be a good time to rid the world of him. Someone should have done it in school.”

  They all knew what the Colonel was doing. The dance ended and he escorted her back to Dominic.

  “I guess I should congratulate you.” He bowed to Mirisa and left them all standing there wondering exactly what she had said. Her face was flushed and her look was murderous. She turned from them without a word and walked out onto the veranda. None of them moved nor did she indicate she wanted or even sought their company.

  “Well.” Meeks snorted. “She does have spunk in there somewhere.”

  James watched her cross the room as the dress clung to the beauty of her lines. “I don’t know about spunk but I love the way she walks.”

  Dominic smiled knowing his friends well. Garnett downed his shot then told Dominic he would make sure she was alright. They all knew they had to remain impassive even if everyone wanted to flip coins to see who could shoot the bastard in the middle of the ballroom. Way too much was hanging in the balance. He sipped his whiskey and then nodded to Mr. Ross who left the room followed by James and Dominic. Meeks continued to watch the room.

  Mirisa stood at the railing looking out over the river. The house was built up on a hill so that they appeared closer to the river and had a much better view without having to worry about flood waters. It was a much larger veranda then at Dominic’s house and was lined with the sturdiest of rocking chairs. Large glass candles hung from the ceiling and the posts were wrapped with evergreens and holly and tied off with deep maroon ribbons.

  A server walked up and down the veranda offering drinks and small bits of food to the guests who had come out as the musicians took a break. She took a glass of dark red wine, walked to the end of the veranda where she found a chair. She thought about the last year and how much had changed and she finally understood that her father wanted her somewhere that would buffer her from the war. She would never return home as the child she had been and she had to accept that this war would change everything. She no longer had dreams about great adventures or handsome men because she now knew that the real world was far more devious and more deadly than anything in the books she read. Her dreams of returning to her family had turned to prayers that there would be a family to return to someday.

  “Is it the fact that you aren’t relying on what you know in your heart or that you are still in denial?”

  She looked up at the man leaning on the railing. Conrad no longer surprised her because she was convinced that he didn’t really exist. “You know the answer better than me.”

  “But I don’t need the answer. It is you who keeps questioning.”

  “But it is you who keeps coming to me even though your existence is impossible.”

  “True but only because you summons me and more so since Dominic has returned home.” Conrad stood up and the candlelight caught the color of his eyes which were far bluer then Dominic’s.

  “Tell me, do you haunt the Plantation for a reason?”

  Conrad laughed which made her smile. “The path we take in this world or the next is predetermined long before we walk the earth.”

  “Why is there no mention of you after the fire? Why is it that no one else dreams of you or sees you? Why are you telling me your story?”

  “Mirisa?” She turned to Garnett’s voice as he walked down the veranda toward her and then turned back to find she was alone again. “I wanted to make sure that you were alright.”

  Garnett was an extremely attractive man with an air of arrogance that he wore well. He also had a touch of sadness around his eyes but a softness that he probably shared with few. Mirisa loved everything about him but was so confused that she was
being drawn to both men.

  “I think it was just too much dancing.” She lied to him and he knew it.

  “Mirisa, Colonel Smith is a very dangerous person. I want you to always remember that and never let your guard down. Promise me that you won’t put yourself in harm’s way.” Garnett put out his hand as she rose. “Now, I believe you promised me a dance and I believe they will be starting with a less strenuous number.”

  She knew that it would be very easy to fall in love with him. Where Dominic’s touch was demanding she found Garnett’s to be seeking. A waltz was starting when they came through the door so they joined. He asked her about her stay at the Plantation and laughed easily at her stories. When the song stopped, he bowed and kissed her hand before someone else stepped in and asked her to dance. Dominic stepped back into the room as they came off the veranda. He watched them for a moment knowing that Garnett would pursue her if given the opportunity. As accomplished as he was in hiding his personal feelings and opinions, when he looked at her you could see that he had instantly fallen in love.

  Charlotte’s scream brought the entire room to a halt. Tom had come through the open doors off the veranda with blood running down his shirt and his face was ashen. He took two steps into the room before collapsing on the floor. Charlotte was only feet away from him and immediately fainted after she screamed. Her mother rushed to her side and began to fan her while watching the men bend over the young boy and remove his shirt. There was an open wound on his side but was impossible to tell if anything vital had been cut. They lifted him off the floor and took him into the office laying him on the couch.

  Dr. Robbins sent someone for his bag and began to examine the wound which went from the back of him almost to the front. He put pressure on the front and rolled him slightly so that he could examine the larger entry point as Tom screamed out in pain.

  “This almost appears to be a bayonet rather than a knife wound. What was he doing out here tonight?” He looked around the room as he opened his bag. “Someone get me something to pack the wound.”