The Watchman's Grace

by Craig Johnson

  “Good afternoon Duncan Malloy. You and Peter Harvey are spot on in your appeals! But it would be a disservice to your efforts if I did not relay a nagging, cautionary word. Duncan Malloy, I stand four-square behind you. Though you must be careful man!

  “You know as well as I those who benefit from the current situation will not let their grip fall fast. There are vested interests who would view your talk, as right as it is, a threat. And you know the history of what happens to those that don’t follow the status quo here!

  “Please take caution Duncan. We need you more on this side of the living.” With a good day and tip of his hat, the man soon disappeared amongst a wave of departures.

  A colleague standing within earshot chuckled aloud. “Don’t you think that man’s delivery was a touch dramatic Duncan?”

  Duncan wheeled about to face his colleague. “Quinton, I only wish there were more people that would be prepared to fend us from harm. Do not be mistaken; there were probably a few in today’s audience here for more than idle curiosity. I’m certain the same kind monitor every activity of my family and others. Take heed of the times we are in.”

  Quinton gave Duncan a curious look before moving away to his tasks. He uttered nothing in reply to Duncan’s caution.

  Positive news spread fast about the grand turnout in Cork. Ensuing events were full of eager audiences entranced by the actions of the Common Man Movement. Village by village and town by town, support was raised, coordinated and delivered in the drive for self-government.

  Though as pressure built through the movement’s aims, established landlords, administrators and sympathizers of the Crown became increasingly concerned. Their powerful voices spoke to sympathetic ears on both sides of the Irish Sea. As a result, the Common Man Movement passed from mere irritation into a priority issue for entrenched interests.

  After another three weeks of appearances, Duncan and Peter returned back to Dublin and rested their fatigued minds. A pleasant dinner reception at Goodhope House ensued, followed by a strategic meeting with Aidan Malloy. At the conclusion of their lengthy discussion, Aidan had some important information to depart.

  “Peter and Duncan, it’s great to see you both in good spirits! You’ve taken on challenges few would dare, proving equal to the task. Recently, some of my better placed sources in Parliament said more than a few senior officials are becoming alarmed with the Common Man Movement. We do not know what will come of this, so please exercise caution. In fact, I am prepared to undertake the expense of hired protection for your rallies, if it meets your satisfaction.”

  Duncan’s expression turned to one of immediate disapproval. “Father, how would that look to our supporters? Are we not about accessibility as symbolic of a unified struggle? I do not want to be seen as a spoiled boy buffered from the constituents he proclaims to hold so dear! No, our arrangement must continue as always.”

  On the contrary, Peter did see merit in Aidan’s logic. Over the course of these travels, more than one person commented on their safety. In his view, a middle ground should be taken.

  “I see your point Duncan. So perhaps security can be placed discreetly amongst the crowds, just like our stewards. It would draw no attention from the uninformed. To our advantage, they would be professionally prepared to detect problems and act decisively if need be. A perfect compromise to an issue your father was well intended to broach this evening.”

  Aidan seemed relieved with Peter’s suggestion. “So how do you feel about such a compromise Duncan? There would be no interference with your manner of engagement at upcoming events.”

  Duncan studied both men carefully before responding.

  “Oh well, I guess more eyes in the crowd can only be to our advantage. Though make sure they don’t stand out amongst our audience. That would give people all the wrong impressions.”

  Now this matter was settled, Aidan, Duncan and Peter retired to the dining room and rejoined their gathering. Later, Peter and Maggie discreetly left the room to catch up on many happenings. It was then another first came to Peter when, at an unanticipated moment, Maggie embraced him to make a passionate kiss.

  “I missed you every waking moment,” she uttered in breathless wonder. “Let this make you never doubt my affections for you!”

  “Tonight you have made me the happiest man in Dublin!” he replied in sheer glee. “For that I am taking you to a sumptuous dinner this coming Friday evening. Would you be available to accompany me?”

  Maggie looked longingly into Peter’s glowing brown eyes. “I’ve been waiting for months to see you back in Dublin. We shall make the most of your time here until the cause puts you on country roads again. We will have a wonderful night indeed Peter Harvey!”

  “With you by my side I could not agree more. We’ve been gone quite a while. Let’s head back inside to join everyone. I don’t want to become the next topic of wagging tongues.” Maggie and Peter shared a good laugh before returning to the living room.

  Next day at his St. Stephen’s Green area flat, Peter was awoken from an afternoon nap by determined knocking at his door. He sprang to the floor and went to answer. When he opened it, Duncan was standing with a large post flapping in his right hand.

  “Good morning Peter! Hope I was not interrupting anything. Thought you would be interested in this letter I received in today’s mail.

  “Wouldn’t you know it? A group of our former colleagues at Queen’s College wish to have a reunion of old pals. Since a fair number currently reside in the Dublin area, I proposed we hold a function at Goodhope House. I’m sure most would be in agreement, though there are always a few who may have prior engagements.”

  Peter was delighted to hear the news. “That’s exactly what we need; a sort of homecoming amongst old colleagues. Having their good cheer around will help take the edge off all this seriousness we’ve been carrying on with.”

  “Then it’s settled. I will make the arrangements today and send out invitations. I was looking to the Saturday next, since this coming one would be too short of notice. Guess that means I have to run a load of errands for the occasion. Enjoy the day Peter.” With the same speed he entered Peter’s flat, Duncan went off into Dublin’s teaming streets.

  Peter took full advantage of his time in Dublin. Besides obligatory chores, he caught up on correspondence with his mother Mary and grandfather Eamon. In addition, he visited with a couple of friends Duncan had corresponded with in the post he received. Other pursuits had been laid aside for the good of their movement, but now time would be for personal pleasure.

  Friday’s dinner with Maggie proved exceptional. When he arrived at Goodhope House, she appeared in a stunning aquamarine gown, which only further accentuated her stunning features. Peter Harvey was a proud man indeed, with Maggie content in his company. As the evening flew past once again, both knew they had found their steady companion.

  Throughout the following week, Peter thought of ways to show Maggie his commitment to taking their relationship further along. While walking home one evening from a light meal, he noticed a catchy poster for an evening recital. Instantly an idea formed in his head. It certainly had the trademark Harvey flair for originality, though needed Duncan’s assistance. He decided to broach it to him the very next morning.

  When Duncan heard of Peter’s proposal, he was taken with a mixture of humor and confirmed suspicions. “So Peter, it’s come to this has it?”

  “There are fewer things of which I am more certain, so your assistance would be greatly appreciated.”

  “Well then, who am I to stand in your way? Let me help bring it all together.” With the final piece in place, Peter set about the day ahead.

  Saturday came with heightened anticipation for Peter. A full day of activities were about to unfold. With good expectations in mind, Peter prepared for the afternoon meeting with his old Queen’s College colleagues at a nearby pub.

 
Duncan and Peter reveled in good company that day, recounting treasured stories from their collegiate years. In addition, each person gave account of their latest aspirations and endeavors. True to form, time did not hinder the strong bonds they shared.

  Later into the reunion, Peter asked his friends for a moment of their attention. Looks of curious amusement greeted him when he finished, followed by acceptance of his request. After a couple more rounds, they took notice of the hour and proceeded to Goodhope House.

  Duncan silenced the team of men while he escorted them around back of Goodhope House. There, he used a service entrance to let them inside. Then, he led them into a spare room on ground level, locking the door behind him. Duncan now set off in search of his sister Maggie.

  Maggie was reading a biographical novel in the main study when her brother walked in. “Maggie, I am so glad to have found you here. Sorry to interrupt, but can I see you in the social room? There is something rather important I need to show you.”

  Maggie noted Duncan’s look of concern and promptly laid her book on a side table. “Of course, let’s go there now. I hope all is well Duncan.” Side by side they strode towards the large room.

  Once inside, Duncan gave her a serious look. “Please wait here Maggie while I fetch the paper. I should not be more than a few minutes.” He scurried out of her presence, leaving Maggie anxious and confused.

  Duncan went promptly to his destination, unlocking the door where his friends stood patiently waiting. “All is well,” he grinned. “Let’s start the show.”

  “Where is she waiting?” Peter inquired excitedly.

  “I told her to stay in the social room while I fetched an important document. Maggie has no idea what is about to unfold!” said a mischievous Duncan.

  “Fantastic!” replied Peter. He gave everyone assembled a note of thanks. “Once again, I give my sincere appreciation to you all for participating in this amateur production. Tomorrow we shall enjoy a few rounds of the finest ale in Dublin on my account!”

  “No problem Peter,” laughed Sean. “We would not miss a chance to engage our hidden desire for impromptu theater.”

  Duncan quietly led them down a long hallway to a spot just outside the social room. Making sure all were ready in single file, he led them inside to where an unsuspecting Maggie waited.

  Peter’s companions made a striking show with their entrance. Maggie was taken completely by surprise with these strange gentlemen in full formal dress, brimming with pride at a well-kept secret.

  The assembly strode by her one by one, each making a courtesy bow in passing. By previous arrangement, they formed a semicircle around Maggie, each man linked in arms with those to each side. Finally, a beaming Peter strode in handsome profile towards a shocked Maggie Malloy.

  “Maggie dear, I hope all of this does not cause you any concern, though I had no other way to proclaim my fondest admiration for you. These are my truest fellows from Queen’s College in Galway. I thought of no better way to proclaim my affections than in the warm company of my dear friends. With no intended displeasure to your sense of good taste, we shall begin.”

  Maggie was beside herself at the impromptu spectacle. Expectant curiosity beamed whole across her beautiful features as Peter and friends began their shanty. Peter sang solo to begin the performance.

  “There I was a child at sea

  Lost to the world and Galilee

  When by wind it carried me

  Here upon this Island

  “Grew up fast within this land

  Had me a family to take my hand

  They said now we’ll take a stand

  Here upon this Island”

  Then his chorus of supporters chimed in.

  “Raise up hopes and lifts them higher

  Feel our soul and ignite our fire

  Hear our hearts from Galway shire

  Clear around to Dublin Spire!”

  On their conclusion Peter continued.

  “Then a friend had asked to dine

  Where I met a lady that looked so fine

  Face so sweet like mellow wine

  Here upon this Island

  “So then right there I said to thee

  To a courting I think we’ll be

  Guess I’ll ask your family

  Here upon this Island”

  Then his band of merrymakers ensued in key.

  “To deny this man would be so wrong

  He’d wail all night and lament this song

  This good young man with heart so strong

  So take his hand and come along!”

  Then Peter gave his finale.

  “So there it is for all to hear

  I lost my heart to one so dear

  Take my hand as I hold it near

  For this Island home has brought us here”

  With a blown kiss to Maggie and a bow by his chorus men, Peter’s vocal performance came to a finish. Maggie was speechless.

  “My truest Maggie,” began a joyous Peter. “You are the strongest inspiration I’ve ever had to reach the summit of happiness on which I now stand. In my past, I dare not even imagine that one could feel such a velvet crush of passion. I have your brother Duncan to thank for giving me a gift so weighty in treasure I surely cannot repay in kind.

  “My heart sparked from the moment of our first acquaintance. Finding such a delicate beauty with so sublime a charm occurs perhaps once in a lucky lifetime. Because of this Maggie, my heart and mind flourishes in the loveliness of all that you are to me.”

  Maggie Malloy was overcome with bliss. She took a moment to compose herself before replying to such beautiful words.

  “My dearest Peter, you certainly outdid yourself with this performance! Did you and Duncan drag these poor gentlemen from all corners of the country to perform here today? Your powers of persuasion are something to be marveled!”

  Peter smiled at her gentle mock. “Be that as it may, nothing rivals the rapture of sweet emotion when I am in your presence. Maggie Malloy, your beauty on every count guides my good intentions. From the moment I awaken, to the evening when my head lays to rest, tender thoughts of you are my constant companion.”

  Maggie Malloy brushed a streaking tear from the side of one cheek. Her feet made fast towards an enchanted Peter Harvey, whereupon she held him in the warmest of embraces. Looking into his entrancing brown eyes, Maggie gave Peter a most complete kiss on moist waiting lips. No one doubted her reciprocation of his affection. Maggie and Peter were destined to become a union of one.

  When they loosened their embrace, Maggie voiced her reply. “Peter Harvey, if you need words after the answer you just received, I would say our passion is already gone!

  “Gentlemen, I thank you for the rousing display. I imagine you are all starved, judging by the hungry looks on your faces. I will have food and drink ready soon in the dining room to continue this fine day!”

  Festivities progressed with much regaling of old tales and good banter. Time marched merrily forwards amidst such pleasant surroundings. All were in sheer contentment, regardless of their personal circumstances before and after the occasion. When desserts were finished, Maggie and Peter managed to slip away for a quiet moment.

  Peter held Maggie around her waist as he spoke. “Let me say, what a wonderful day this has been! I have so much to be thankful for, and so much to look forward to.”

  Maggie was pleased as well, though did harbor one nagging concern. “Peter, everything today could not have been better. And here I am in the arms of the only man who has touched my deepest affections. Not to spoil our evening, but I do see one thing which may separate us more than you can imagine.”

  Peter was surprised to hear her mention any issues. “Maggie, please tell me what is on your mind. Did I offend you in any way?”

  Maggie was hesitant to speak
about it, though they shared a complete honesty which made their bond tight. Therefore she resolved to let Peter know her singular worry about their future.

  “Believe me Peter, there’s nothing you have done to offend me. Call it a woman’s intuition, but there’s only one endeavor which will keep us apart the longer it continues.

  “It hurts me to say, though I waited desperately to see you again after the start of your movement. Weeks later we have enjoyed only a short time to feel the presence of each other’s company. Now, in a few days, you will be off again for time on end. Do not read me wrong; there is no ultimatum here. Yet the waiting and wondering is just so hard!”

  Peter knew she had good reason for her views. When he came back to Dublin, there was a major realization of the sacrifices he had burdened their relationship with. This weighed heavily on his conscious throughout the movement’s campaign. Though here was the cost of a long held dream. Regardless, he was determined to have both within his burgeoning future.

  “Maggie, there are two things right now that hold my dearest passion outside of family. Our relationship is paramount, as is my devotion to the Common Man Movement. Each springs from a long well of desire most true. I understand more than you may think the challenges being with me entail. Though please have faith in me; I can do both.”

  Maggie searched within Peter’s pleading eyes. All good things come at a cost she reckoned. Provided the expense was worthy of the prize, one would do well to pay it. In this case, there was really no question. She knew there would be no other who could take his place.

  “Peter, I knew your ambition for this movement from the moment I first met you. Despite it, I began to fall for you as time went on. I am prepared to have things stay this way, provided you promise me one thing.”

  He felt tremendously relieved to hear Maggie’s approval. “I will do anything, just let me know.”

  “Tell me with all sincerity there will be a future for us when your movement has grown enough to tend its own affairs. I want a family life with you Peter, and can wait only so long for that to happen!”