John smiled at the term ‘Mousefield Road,’ which took him back to his childhood. “We are grateful, too. Please tell your father, Chief Morning Star, we appreciate his kind gestures,” John explained. “He will be returning for trading in a few days. Please come with him. Now, what news do you have of my horses? I’d like them back.” John was sincere, firm, excited about being on the brink of learning about his missing pair of steeds. By now, the music had ceased and guests gathered near for the news.
“We will tell our father what you said, but we do not have your horses, I promise,” Jason related.
“Where are they?” Cousin Emery suddenly asked, wanting to get to the point of their visit, since only these three and Rachael Hathaway, perhaps, obviously knew the truth, or did they, he wondered?
“They are at this gentleman’s home barn and pasture,” Jay offered, pointing to John Davis II.
“That’s not true!” Their host reacted in an outburst of emotion. “This is my own father you are accusing of thievery!”
Instantly, Grandfather Davis joined them. “He’s my son, young man, and he is certainly not a horse thief! Now, I’ll thank you to kindly leave my home, the three of you.” The older man shot them a look of disgust.
“Wait, Grandfather,” John beseeched him. “Let’s hear them out. They must have some kind of evidence.”
“Let us hear them in private, please, for this is not a matter the entire village should hear,” Rachael interjected, unhappy to be having this discussion with John tonight, of all nights.
“Yes, they should hear of it,” John countered. “Many of these fine folks searched tirelessly for my animals, plus, there is a reward to consider, some of which was given by them.”
Rachael was hurt by his argumentative tone. She backed away, nearly in tears, into the arms of her two sisters.
“Jay, Jason, and Joshua are at your service, sir!” Jay saluted. “We searched and we found your beautiful horses, I’m happy to say.”
“We didn’t know, sir, that this man was your father,” Joshua announced, with a hint of sorrow in his voice. The three stood firm in their accusation. They were not backing down, even with a glaring crowd around them.
John noted that. “Obviously, you have some kind of knowledge or facts to back you up in this matter,” was his curt response. Yet, he was still unbelieving that his own father could be involved in such as this.
They did not flinch, or seem like troublemakers, at least not to John, and especially to Rachael.
His father then nodded and stepped forward. “I’m afraid it is true, John. I do have your horses.”
John’s mother began to sob. “I sent you a note, son, so you wouldn’t worry. Did you get it?”
Rachael and Amber went to comfort John’s mother, as he replied, “No.” Then, together, the women walked with Cloie toward the veranda to get some air and calm their nerves, leaving their men to deal with this situation. John’s grandmothers, Hattie and Andrea, followed the other ladies, as well.
John’s father, John II, continued. “I thought it would be best while you were away if we brought the horses to Sunset Place. We had been at Magnolia Gardens to care for baby Lily for some time, yet could not stay indefinitely, John, since we also had work at home to do. That way, with the horses with us, we could …” His voice broke and he choked back tears. “With your horses at our place, we could, not only watch and feed them and bring them into the barn at night, we could also take some of the burden of chores from Crane’s shoulders, and delight Lily at the same time. We rode them home and Arthur brought our buggy back to our place, while Crane and the ladies were at the market. We took the baby for rides daily, and she loved it. We did, too. She loves animals and this seemed to comfort her. My biggest regret and mistake was not telling Crane about it. I just hated to go back over until you came home safely, son.”
That was all the explanation John needed. He understood the circumstances now. Quickly, he moved to hug and thank his father, whom he dearly loved and hadn’t told about the searches. Taking control of the situation, he remarked, “If you will excuse us, please, this is a private matter.” Turning to the three accusers, John explained about the reward. “Since this proves to be true, you three shall be rewarded for your discovery. Please stay. Enjoy yourselves. You are welcome here. We shall discuss the reward fund in a few moments.” He turned again to walk with his father to his grandfather’s library, although his grandfather declined to go. Instead, John Davis Senior waved them toward his favorite room and explained that he and Emery would go find the ladies, knowing that the two needed some time together.
At once, Joshua intervened, however. “Oh, no, sir, we do not wish for a reward. We only want some employment in this area, if that is possible. We need jobs. Perhaps you could make an announcement for us of such later.”
John nodded, as the group around them began to disperse, since the music had quietly resumed.
“Let’s dance!” called Robert Hathaway, to ease this startling situation. His sisters, Phoebe and Viola, were asked to dance by Monty and Antonio. So, the three couples convinced others to dance again.
In private, John learned that his father’s plan was not one of punishment or thievery. It was merely one to appease a crying, grieving Lily, his granddaughter, who missed both her father and mother, plus, help John’s staff. “We took her for horseback rides most days, when the weather was good, John. It seemed to soothe her and the animals love her. She delighted in it, and the horses were gentle. Your dear mother and I took great pleasure in it and it helped us find joy, too, for we miss Rose, also.” He further explained that he had planned to return them before John even missed them, but had not found a way to do it without questions and prying eyes. “Besides, you were wounded and had no business riding them upon your return, anyway. We meant well.”
John looked down at the mention of the word ‘wounded’ and further forgave him immediately. “I understand the whole story now.” Hugging his father again, he suggested, “Let’s find those three men and offer a solution to their employment problems, if they will not accept the reward.” Breathing a deep sigh of relief, John was thrilled that his horses were safe and coming home soon. In the hallway, as they were returning to their guests, he stopped to explain more about his promised engagement to Miss Rachael Hathaway and her acceptance of it, this very evening. “I love her, Dad, and I feel comfortable with her. She even approves of me opening a medical facility with Monty and Buddy.”
“Congratulations, John. She’s a lovely girl. Your mother and I could not be more pleased. We approve, and if there is anything we can do to help with your wedding, just ask.” It was his father’s turn to hug him, since he heartily agreed with the marriage proposal and plans.
“I think Bradshaw must be from the Red Cross,” a man was conjecturing, as father and son walked by a gathered group of guests. “You know, John and some of his friends are Red Cross volunteers.”
Yet, another man had a different opinion. “I think he’s really from the railroad.”
Next, another idea surfaced. “Well, I believe he’s in security,” another person surmised.
“I think he’s from England,” Pastor Hoover related, with a chuckle.
“I think he’s from sunny Mexico,” his wife, Emma, exclaimed, with a chuckle of her own.
“He does have a mysterious air about him, doesn’t he?” John interjected. “I guess, time will tell us,” he laughed, since he did not know the truth on this issue yet, either.
At once, Rachael joined him, bringing him a euphoria that would completely make him forget his worries. “Here you are,” she said softly, placing her hand upon his outstretched arm.
In fact, John felt he had no worries at all, now that she was joining the family and his horses were to be returned safely. Well, there was the one thing on his immediate agenda – appeasing the three men with the reward, and t
here was his leg, too. Turning to Rachael, he told her, “We must find those three and Mr. Bradshaw to ask if they will stay awhile after the guests have gone. In fact, they may all stay the night. We can find room for them, here or at Magnolia Gardens,” he declared. Noting astonishment on her sweet face, he added, “They won’t be staying in the barn, either, Rachael.”
For some fun, Phoebe and Emma now held the secret, written vote for best pie. Mr. Charles Earl won the coveted prize of six blueberry bushes, delighting even Miss Callie, his most staunch competitor.
“Next year, you bake blueberry and I’ll win with my delicious cherry concoction, complete with its secret ingredients,” Miss Callie teased.
He moved closer and politely begged to know her secret recipe, with hands together under his chin in prayer-like form.
“I’ll tell you that secret - a dash of cinnamon and one of brown sugar, plus vanilla,” she revealed in a whisper. “But, I shouldn’t have informed you of it, I’m afraid,” she said with a laugh. At that point, some heard him asking her for a future social engagement.
Rachael knew the men John was seeking were on the veranda, and told him so. “Shall we go?”
Focusing on her as they walked toward the door, he asked if he could see her after the guests were gone. “May we take a few moments before you retire for the evening? I know you’re tired.”
“Since you put it so sweetly, I believe we shall.” Silently, she was trying to forgive her groom-to-be for raising his voice earlier, creating a spectacle, at least in her mind. However, she did feel it was her fault for inviting the three without asking John’s permission first. Perhaps she should ask his forgiveness, so their relationship could remain intact. She very much wished to continue as a congenial best friend.
“Your parents, grandmother, and aunt will be staying at my place. Phoebe and Viola will be with you. Monty and my cousin will be with me. Maybe Monty and Phoebe will have an answer for us about the double wedding in the morning, Rachael.”
“I hope so. What about Amber?” She sincerely wanted to know what all of the plans were.
“She may stay here, although her home isn’t far from here and her mother is with her. So, she may wish to go home tonight.” He guided her to a dark corner. Taking her into his arms, he kissed her.
“Could Amber stay with us, John, in our room?”
“That surprises me, but, very well, whatever you wish, sweetheart,” he replied, curious about her request, since he thought the two of them did not get along well. Yet, he didn’t press her on the issue. She must have a plan.
“We’ve had some time to get acquainted, and I like her. So does Phoebe. They got along very well when Monty was so ill. Amber has confided a few secrets and wishes to us,” Rachael revealed.
John was immediately curious. “Oh, she has? Is one of them about my Cousin Emery?”
“Oh, John, she just wondered if she should accept a marriage proposal now that her official mourning period for her departed husband is over, and what kind of wedding she might have. We also talked about wedding flowers, since she loves flowers as much as I do. But don’t you tell. These are her secrets. I’m only telling you because I’m marrying you,” she laughed.
“Good!” He continued to hold her in his arms, savoring the moment, the evening, and its events. They kissed again in that private corner near the door. “That’s quite a few secrets she has told you, Rachael.”
“Oh?” She turned to exit the room, yet waited, since some couples were just coming inside.
“In fact, that’s more than you and I have even shared, I believe.”
“No, it isn’t. I’ve been counting,” she replied. At the door, she whispered, “We’ll kiss again later.”
To their surprise, Mr. Bradshaw was entertaining the troops on the terrace. They seemed quite spellbound by him and the story he was telling. John hated to interrupt. So, he and Rachael sat at the next table, listening intently to his yarn about fishing. In ending, he charmed them with, “and it’s all quite true.”
“Sirs,” John began. “We would appreciate your gathering with us at the fireplace in the living room for a brief visit this evening, after the last dance, if that meets with your approval. I have an idea.”
The four agreed with his plan. Next, he asked Antonio Bradshaw if he would like to spend this evening at Black Woods Castle, so they could meet over breakfast for further insight into his plans.
“No, thank you.” His guest had other plans and declined. “I’ll be taking my sister home, and your future brother-in-law, Robert Hathaway, is coming home with me for a time, to rest and fish. I’ll cook for them, but not tonight,” he laughed.
John was surprised. “Oh, I just thought we needed to discuss something further.”
“Let’s set a date, perhaps on Wednesday, to meet,” was his suggestion, and John agreed to it.
Sometime later, everyone who was staying gathered in comfortable chairs after the last waltz of the evening. John rose. “Crane, the horses will be coming home soon. We’ll discuss that tomorrow.” His butler nodded, happily. “Ladies and gentlemen, I believe this was a huge success. Thank you for everything you did and all of your hard work. By the way, where is my sweet Lily?” he suddenly asked, looking around, aware that she was not in the group. He knew she’d be tired by now.
“She’s with Grandmother and Grandfather, already asleep and tucked in, dear,” his mother volunteered. “Don’t worry. We’ll take her to our room in a few minutes. You get some rest tonight.”
“Thank you.” He was relieved. “That leaves the reward.” He thought it would be easy, handing over the money, and hadn’t planned on it being declined. But, Father and Cousin Emery came to the rescue.
“I think we have that figured out, John,” his father explained. “These young men have refused any reward, in lieu of work. Perhaps, one of them could work for me, another for your cousin, Emery, and the wounded young man, Jason, could do light duty at the market while he is healing. I spoke with the owner, who was here this evening. They loved the idea and had been thinking of posting a notice for some help.”
“Splendid!” John announced. “Does that meet with your approval?”
“Yes, sir, but we must go now,” Joshua cheerfully remarked. They thanked him for dinner.
Shaking hands all around, they turned to leave, insisting they would arrive promptly to assume their new duties on Monday morning.
But first, Rachael convinced them to sing ‘Camping In The Lowlands,’ which was well-received.
Afterward, outside, the chief and Princess Morning Dove were waiting in the gardens to escort them home. When they had gone, John mentioned giving the reward money to the three secretly, as bonuses, and everyone heartily agreed with that plan.
The conversation eventually turned to agriculture. “It is cherry picking season,” Emery Davis announced, and to his delight, many were interested. “We have cherry trees on our place. All you need to bring are some buckets or containers. I have ladders. We’ll send you all home with delicious ripe cherries.”
“Oh, John, do you feel up to it? I’d love to help harvest them.” Rachael was beaming at the very prospect of it. “We have helped neighbors at home with their cherry picking chores, haven’t we, girls? We really enjoyed it and the pies afterward were just heavenly. The work was worth it.”
Her sisters agreed, and her brother did not want to be left out, either. “I’m sure I can rest my fishing pole for awhile and help. Lots of hands make light work, or some such thing,” Robert laughed.
Robin Bradshaw smiled sweetly at him from across the room. Gazing at her brother, she saw him shake his head in approval. “Robin and I shall help, as well,” Mr. Bradshaw informed the merry group.
“I haven’t told you yet, but I’m going out on the Snagpuller North again, John, if you want to come. Buddy is going, too. By being a deckhand, the company
has agreed to let me have some trees and snags. I’m thinking of trying to save some of the trees by planting them and of starting a small sawmill on our property at Timber Lane, for sawing the others. I live there with my father, Emery Davis Senior, for those who don’t know,” Cousin Emery told the group. “Father will also use some of the wood for his woodworking projects.” Miss Worthington looked at him with loving eyes and pride for the hard-working farmer and his kin. “Amber and I have talked it over and she knows I’ll be gone some. But the crops are growing well and she has graciously agreed to bake me peach and cherry pies when I return home,” he laughed, and the group laughed merrily with him.
John liked the idea. “Your mill will fit in nicely with my plans to build a museum, Emery. I’ll buy your lumber.”
“Put in a kitchen and bake us pies, please, John.” Monty remarked, comically. “The mill will also help with our plan for a medical sanctuary, too, John. “ Monty and Phoebe exchanged glances and smiles, making it apparent that they had discussed these plans, just as John had suggested, and that she was certainly in agreement with it. After all, she and Rachael had previously overheard their idea.
“A sawmill might also give those boys some extra work, or others, since I probably don’t have full time employment for my helper on the farm at this time, yet will sometimes need assistance” John’s father suggested.
Antonio held back a smile with a hand over his mouth, pondering, delight in his eyes, silently savoring being included in this planning session. He often exchanged glances with Miss Viola Hathaway.
“Speaking of agriculture, several of us want to increase our fields, growing more produce. We’ll need to transport it and other goods, such as hay, to outlying markets, as people move to the area.” John informed Emery. “Since you have a bumper crop of cherries for harvest, let’s quickly build a wagon for transport, with boards from your mill, shall we?” John asked his cousin. “Let’s do it before we pick.”
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