“It is my testament to you that this song will carry with me today, tomorrow and evermore. My dear Maggie! Why are we put on this earth to be demanded so much of, yet given so little to treasure?”
Maggie fell silent and let actions speak for her innermost feelings. She cradled Peter’s face in her caring hands and gazed with hypnotic longing into his eyes. Slowly, moist mouths connected in a soulful union which said more than any phrase could possibly impart.
Meantime, Aidan and Duncan descended hard steps towards Peter’s room. Before they reached the floor, an important issue flashed into Duncan’s recollection.
“Father, what would have happened if that bullet felled me at Wheatstone Fields? Who else could know about…?”
Aidan interrupted him in mid-sentence. “Don’t ever worry about that possibility. I have it well in hand. Here we are. Let’s announce our presence and speak no further on that matter.”
Inside, Peter and Maggie clung dearly to each other against the ironic savagery of fate. Then, their endearing moment was interrupted by a firm rapping outside. Unlocking themselves from their tender hold, Peter prepared to answer.
“Maggie Malloy, I love you,” he whispered in her ear.
“Always,” she replied breathlessly.
“I’m coming to answer,” Peter called out. When he opened the door, Aidan was standing outside with company.
“Peter, Maggie, I’m sorry to have come down so soon, though Duncan has arrived. We have no way of knowing how much time is available before our opponent lines up another course of action. They are clever, determined and have much at stake. All of which makes them dangerous.”
“We understand father,” replied Maggie in a practical manner. “Peter and I have had our talk. Let Duncan have his.” She breezed past both father and brother in firm gait, looking straight towards the outside steps. Duncan entered while Aidan followed behind his daughter upstairs.
“Peter, it is always so good to see you!” he called out when he gave his closest friend a welcoming hug. “I have spent all of last evening and the better part of today searching for some greater meaning in all of this wicked frenzy. You know what? There is none, since all rules of natural justice have been perverted by overreaching imperialists, intent on using the blunt edge of aggression.
“I now see our lot in Ireland will only better through challenging might on its own terms. Do not worry; Duncan Malloy will still uphold our cause without physical provocation. But our aims will be only one part of many strategies to win true self government. Lives like yours will be sacrificed further. All the while faithful blood from our most idealistic will continue to be shed, for freedom demands all.”
“I understand your sentiment,” replied a contemplative Peter. “Though promise me never to allow our opponents’ venom to conflict with upstanding intentions. We can look back with pride on the network we established through our steadfast principles. More than a few lives have been positively affected through the actions of our appeals!”
Duncan placed an arm around Peter’s right shoulder. “Peter, you were a brother to me well before Wheatstone Fields. Now there’s an elemental aspect which goes beyond description. My mother brought me into the world all those years ago. Yet when you saved my life at Wheatstone Fields, I experienced a rebirth. You gave me a second life by giving up your own liberty!
“Do you see what I’m saying Peter? I should have passed away that afternoon. Now, every minute from that time onwards means I have lived two lifetimes; a second chance to make even more of an influence on our nation’s affairs. They will not stop me from proceeding forward!”
Peter was moved by his friend’s profound sincerity. “Duncan, I remember hearing once it was acts of human kindness which kept the devil at bay. Pure chance afforded me the ability to act in the only way I could. We have always been each other’s keeper. The one outcome that matters most is we are both still alive. I take full comfort knowing you would have done the same for me.”
“Peter, you have always been the truest of friends. What you did there shows it clearly to all that know the hideous truth. And though we know what must happen, let’s harbor hope one day we will meet again in person. After all, nobody can say with certainty today is a final farewell.”
“That may eventually be Duncan, though today there is only the option of emigration which avails my situation. But Ireland is the only home I’ve known! I came to its shores as a mere babe, weaned off its very soil. Its ageless earth fed all the character within my strong bones.
“Heartily did I drink all Eire has given to me, including bitter teachings and truer convictions. If I must leave, I do so with the full measure of my heart buried in its fertile ground! Of this you can be sure.
“My dearest Duncan. You took me in as a friend, and we depart as brothers. I paid your trust with the truest currency of protection. So here I am, made to flee my preferred way of life to evade our transgressors. Fatal consequence lends my life to that of an unwilling emigrant, like so many of our people beforehand. Another nomad that sheds silent tears with his forced departure.”
Duncan could never imagine the pained agony which turned Peter’s hearty will to numbing disbelief. “Believe me Peter; I can see the unnatural light of this occasion! My heart is in mourning concerning your departure. How dare these swords of injustice cleave your rightful claim to remain a citizen!
“All concerned appreciate your boundless connection to the land you love so much. To be sure, many lives touched will be the lesser for losing you. Poor Maggie holds strong for appearance, though we all feel her quiet burden. Two people were never more a match than the likes of you and Maggie.”
As Peter’s heart trembled under the weight of his pending decision, he now determined to put forth encouraging words. He was never one to let misery have the last say in any conversation.
“Remember Duncan, all which is great and good is in all of us to be shared by all of us. Goodness is the milk of life, showing a world worth living for, and people worth living with. Ours is a shared journey to be traveled in continuity, regardless of distance.
“We have established true bonds of friendship. A sibling’s companionship is enjoyed by us, through us and within us always. Duncan, I may not leave of my own will, so be it. But wherever I land, such knowledge will shield my resolve to continue a life of uplifting dignity.”
Faint tears welled in the recesses of Duncan’s eyes as he responded to Peter’s musings. “My pain for this country of mine is also in the loss of its greatest resource; its people. Our countrymen are lost by the hundreds every day, through blight, famine or eviction. These ill tidings force many of our citizens to flee abroad just for survival.
“Then a gift from the sea which defines us in many ways bears an offering, a babe who becomes this man, nay this gift called Peter Harvey. A man who not only saved my life, though attempted to bring hope to a challenged citizenry! We were given another champion in this battle forward to equality, only now having it torn from the shrinking bosom of this land.
“I have cried too many unshed tears and seen my share of farewells from numerous emigrants who now must total a million strong. You gave all to take a stand on this cursed disease which spreads like cancer throughout our land. And in reward for your dedication to this nation, Eire sends you away on the same sea from which you came!”
Peter remained dumbstruck by the naked conviction of Duncan’s words. “I can add no more on the matter. Your eloquent reflections only confirm my view that our Common Man Movement will remain in committed hands.
“Time is precious for me now, so I must leave. Just keep our shared memories in the better part of your thoughts. Oppressors may have hastened my leave, but they will never break this relation between best of friends!”
Duncan stabbed at another tear in the corner of his eye. “Fortunately we have a way to get you out of the country, though it
will not be without peril. If the network is penetrated by any traitor we shall all fear for our lives. Though getting our allies to safety’s shores is not a new game for us.
“Along your escape route there are safe houses to find temporary shelter and nourishment. Father will provide enough funds to ensure passage through and off the Island. It is our sincere hope you will meet success, laying roots in a less hostile environment.”
Inside his taxed body, Peter remained stunned with this turn of events. All passions of lifelong pursuit had been robbed by fate and laid to dust.
“Tell me Duncan, what makes one man good and another man wretched? My life has been lived as one who seeks truth, regardless of any obstacles tossed my way. All along I thought myself destined to help the fortunes of my fellow citizens in our nation.
“From a young lad in Kilmarnie I knew the path to follow this pursuit. Every endeavor, every thought was made in quiet knowledge my efforts would achieve that aim. Now cruel chance has driven me from the only community I know. Cursed are the ways we’re denied those ambitions of a pure heart!”
Duncan extended his right hand in parting. “Fare you well Peter Harvey. Let the light never fall far from your journey. Godspeed, shelter close fond memories, and never forget all who love you!”
Both men departed after a final shake of hands. Duncan climbed those old stone steps back to the main study, while Peter watched on in silence. Within minutes, he could hear Aidan’s footfall approaching. His light gear was packed in anticipation of the journey ahead.
“Peter, I have arranged for one of my suppliers to take you on the first part of your route. His haulage cart has a large false compartment to hide your presence. If you follow me down to the end of this passage there is a secured trapdoor. Above it is the shed to a small building I own. Our man will rendezvous with us at that spot. Are you ready to leave?”
Peter gave a nod of confirmation.
“Follow me Peter. Please watch your step and keep your eyes aware of all which happens about you. From here on in, danger could lurk at every corner. Take your public presence to a bare minimum, if ever. Travel at night or under cover. Make only decisions that ensure survival. There is no room for pity, guessing or error. Certainly no quarter exists for trust.
“Until you leave these shores, anyone could be your enemy in disguise. Know full well the Grim Reaper in London is calling for another patriot’s soul! And his name is Peter Harvey. Mark me well, son.”
After walking a short distance, they faced an old stone wall ahead. Both men then looked overhead to an old set of iron hinged heavy timber doors. Where they met together, two imposing locks linked supporting chains, holding the trapdoor closed. Aidan produced a set of keys to release the chains. Thin films of dust showered down upon them as Aidan swung the doors open.
Only the dimmest slivers of sunshine penetrated this shed’s interior. Slowly adjusting their eyes to veiled light, Peter grabbed a nearby ladder, steadying it against the opening above. He followed Aidan up these steady, creaking rungs to the top. Looking around the small structure, Peter could only see regular implements used to care for horses and cartage. Then he felt a steady hand on his left shoulder.
“Peter, I feel it only fair you should know more about the integrity of this network we established long ago. There is no doubt in my mind it is worthy of your trust. Operating on the highest level of secrecy, its existence is as established as it is clandestine. You will only receive your next instructions after arriving at a safe house. Therefore, you will not know the final destination for your escape until you near the end of this journey.
“Why do we act as such? If you are caught, there would be no harm to various departure points established throughout the country for emigration. As additional safety, we change escape routes frequently, making less room for compromises if a runner were caught and forced to divulge details. Now you know the care we take in trying to ensure the safe conduct of every individual involved in this enterprise.
“My supplier, Harry, will be here very soon. Somehow I feel between Maggie and Duncan all which needs to be said was spoken. I cannot begin to imagine the sheer sense of utter abandonment racing through your conscious! Though please try to look ahead towards the chance to start anew.
“Believe me; it may sound like folly given the stark frailties of this current situation. But above all, man needs hope to continue with the everyday. In its absence, all other things lose importance. So Peter, in these uncertain times, search to find again what brings your desire to strive ahead. And hard as it may be, clear your mind to all traces of misgivings which happened in another time.”
Peter understood the intent of Aidan’s message. “Thank you for every good tiding I enjoyed through the kindness of your family. Know I leave here not regretting one minute of my associations with you, Duncan and Maggie! Forever these days will be proof to me that all is possible when we dream together, work together and love together. Thank you indeed Aidan Malloy!”
Aidan moved towards Peter with open arms. They exchanged a final embrace before hearing a slight noise at the entrance to the shed. Then the old door swung open to reveal a middle aged man of medium build. His broad face wore a welcoming grin.
“Well now Aidan Malloy, fancy meeting you in these parts! I assume you are in the company of Peter Harvey. It is a pleasure to see you both. The cart is waiting just outside this door, and my horses are ready for a long spell.”
Aidan waved to Peter as he followed Harry out the entrance. When the door closed he looked around this old shed. He walked over to a bare wall and propped himself against it. There, for the first time in ages, the mighty Aidan Malloy wept inconsolably.
Chapter Fifteen
REDEMPTION, RESURRECTION AND HOPE
From the decrepit recesses of tragedy springs a determined hope
Harry turned to face Peter when they reached the sturdy haulage cart. He bore a mixed expression of deference and heartfelt pity.
“Peter Harvey, let me say it is an honor to meet you personally! Of course I wish it were under more pleasant circumstances. Nevertheless, know full well the work you and Duncan Malloy started is followed by an ever increasing number of individuals.
“Why, just a few weeks ago I heard talk of the Common Man Movement from relations of mine near Cork! Let me add they are not the talkative kind. So be confident your aspirations will one day take hold; delay of the goal is not denial it will ever happen.”
“Thank you Harry for your kind endorsement. When taking on the initiative, Duncan and I were aware of the potential misfortunes which could cross our paths. Though never in a thousand years would I have envisioned this!
“Bitter irony is it not? Here I tried to bring about an end to subjugation so citizenry can share in a noble future. Instead, those same tyrannical forces have conspired to silence me as well.”
Harry patted one of his proud horses in a moment of contemplation. “Not hard to figure their method to hold on to power. Rip the heart from the body of our country so it has no will to stand for its basic rights. It has been the story for decades here; from emigrant to immigrant in some far off land. As the cycle continues, so gains London, so withers this country. Come now, I have a few things to show you.”
Peter drew close to Harry as he took ample care to address important details of the journey ahead. He was no novice to such adventures, being a trusted ally of Aidan Malloy for years in this exact service. Therefore, Peter listened to every nuance, as this knowledge could mean the difference between success and untenable failure. Soon Peter could tell Harry was drawing to a close.
“And right here is the compartment Peter. It will be covered with wares from the business of course. Over there is a discrete air hole so you do not suffocate. Before we begin, my apologies for the obvious discomfort you will endure along bumpy roads.”
Peter flashed a slight smile. “After everything
which has transpired lately, I take such displeasure as a welcome respite. All provided of course this endurance leads me safely to the next destination.”
“You just happen to be in a stretch of bad luck. These things run in streaks, so let’s hope all the problems soon come to a full stop! In the meantime, we should take off to keep everything on plan.”
Peter climbed aboard the roomy cart and placed himself into its false compartment. When he gave Harry a signal all was well, Aidan’s trusted supplier closed the opening. Soon Peter heard Harry piling goods on top of where he lay. A quick jolt heralded the beginning of Peter’s escape.
Fifteen minutes later Peter found himself adapting quite well to the restricted confines. Surprisingly, he seemed to manage better than anticipated at the outset, already formulating a survival plan for his days of escape. While doing so, he checked his inner breast pocket to ensure monies and vital instructions did not go astray.
According to Harry, they would be traveling to a rendezvous point just outside the town of Cavan. Harry only knew the drop point location; an abandoned abbey ruin called Twintonmore. Following their rigorous rules of routes for safe passage, he knew not the identity of Peter’s next receiver.
Alone once again to his thoughts, Peter stewed over numerous challenges he faced ahead. Among the nagging issues which constantly occupied Peter’s thoughts concerned his mother and grandfather out in Kilmarnie.
Peter felt it very severe they would not know his present circumstances. He deemed it doubly harsh in the event any misfortune visited his journey. Peter realized it was of paramount importance the whole affair be kept in strictest confidence. Regardless, he prayed all would be settled before Mary wondered why her only son had ceased answering correspondence.
From Dublin to the town of Cavan was a journey of roughly ten hours or so by carriage cart. Harry would change horses halfway to their destination. Peter learned any potential issues on the journey to Cavan would be encountered during their transit out of Dublin. Having said that, he was promptly assured chances of detection should be minimal at such an early stage. However, in perhaps as little time as a day, the Security Force would be on to his escape.
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