“Elizabeth, you must be off your feet as much as you can manage until the baby arrives. You shall need your strength for the birth,” insisted Emma.
“You are right, of course, but it is most difficult with everything that there is to do. Madeline and Henry do their best to relieve me; however, there are certain things that I alone can manage,” said Elizabeth. “Emma, perhaps all of that terrible business over your skill as a midwife will come to an end once Jarret is found out.”
“You may be right. If Christopher has, indeed, acquired proof of Jarret’s deception, I may again have the respect of the town regarding my abilities as a midwife. Jarret certainly was successful at maligning my reputation amongst many of the members of the town.”
“Emma, I am concerned that when the baby comes, if Jane is assisting, it may be too much for her.”
“Not to worry. We have discussed such matters and Jane insists that it will bring her great joy to hold your little one,” replied Emma.
“She continues to amaze me that one so young could be so strong,” smiled Elizabeth.
Madeline, Jane, and Henry made their way down to the river, as Henry wished to skip stones. In as much as he was extremely proud of his stone-skipping skills, he liked showing off a bit whenever he found an opportunity.
“Madeline, it has been a truly long time since we last skipped stones together,” said Henry.
“You are right, Henry. It has been too long. It seems that now that you are all grown up, you have been much too busy for skipping stones with good old Madeline,” she said, winking at Jane.
“Oh, go on,” replied Henry, with a giggle.
Madeline, Jane, and Henry stayed down by the water for a few hours before returning to the house. Everyone’s hopes of finding Christopher had been dashed now that it was getting along toward nightfall.
Following his efforts to find Christopher, Anthony made his way to the Bleasdell’s along with Mr. Foster. “Mr. Carr and Christopher must have remained in Ipswich. Tomorrow I shall speak with Susanna North regarding the shallop and any news she might have with regard to its passengers. Someone in town must have been on the voyage from England. If I meet with success at finding someone, I shall inquire after Christopher and Mr. Carr,” insisted Anthony.
***
The following day, Anthony went by the store to speak with Susanna. “Susanna, I was informed by Mr. Foster that a ship had arrived from England.”
“Indeed,” replied Susanna. “It disembarked in Ipswich whereupon some of the passengers procured a shallop to convey them to Salisbury.”
“Would you happen to know where I might find any of the passengers?” inquired Anthony.
“Well, Mr. Winsley and George Martin are over at the ordinary awaiting the town’s approval of Mr. Winsley’s land grant,” replied Susanna.
“I am much obliged,” said Anthony.
Anthony went directly over to the ordinary whereupon he located the passengers Susanna had mentioned that had recently arrived from England.
“I am Anthony Hall. It is nice to make your acquaintance. I must inquire after some of your fellow passengers. Would you happen to know the whereabouts of Mr. Carr and Christopher Osgood?”
“They remained in Ipswich for the marriage of Mr. Carr,” replied Mr. Winsley.
“You said marriage, did you not?” inquired Anthony, with a look of astonishment.
“Indeed. You see, Mr. Carr became acquainted with a lady by the name of Elizabeth aboard the ship. To everyone’s surprise, they decided to be married, without delay, in Ipswich, as her family is presently residing there.”
“This is without a doubt happy news,” replied Anthony. “I shall take my leave now, as there are people I must inform of the whereabouts of the two gentlemen.”
“Good day to you,” replied George Martin.
Anthony made haste to the Foster’s home to speak with them. Emma and Jane were out working in the garden when they heard Anthony calling to them.
“Anthony, we are out here in the garden,” replied Emma, peering over some of the taller plants to be seen by Anthony.
“It is good that I have found you,” said Anthony, well out of breath. “I have news. Christopher is in Ipswich, at present, for the marriage of Mr. Carr.”
“Mr. Carr is to be married?” replied Emma, with a smile. “Mr. Foster shall be surprised by the happy news. When is Christopher to return?”
“If I have understood correctly, his return should be imminent, as Mr. Carr was to be married right away, and Christopher would not have delayed in coming to Salisbury once it was over,” replied Anthony. “So, not to worry, as we have ample time remaining until the meeting.”
Mr. Foster came home as Anthony was explaining the situation to Emma and Jane; after which, Anthony and Mr. Foster set off for the Bleasdell’s home to speak with Mr. Bleasdell.
Madeline and Henry were sitting out in the yard, churning butter, as Anthony and Mr. Foster arrived.
“Good day, Madeline, and to you, Henry. We have news of Christopher,” said Anthony.
“Let us go in. I shall fetch Mr. Bleasdell and return to the house momentarily,” replied Madeline anxiously.
Madeline located Mr. Bleasdell around the back side of the house. Upon hearing of Anthony’s news, Mr. Bleasdell quickly accompanied Madeline into the house.
“Good day, Anthony, Mr. Foster,” said Mr. Bleasdell. “Tell us what you have heard.”
Anthony explained everything that he had learned from Mr. Winsley and George Martin; after which, everyone in the room seemed to, simultaneously, breathe a sigh of relief.
“We have, as yet, to find out what Christopher ascertained while in England,” cautioned Mr. Foster. “Though, if anything could have been discovered, regarding Jarret’s wife, Christopher would have found it; of that I am sure.”
Everyone concurred with Mr. Foster’s analysis of the situation. Mr. Foster, Mr. Bleasdell, and Anthony thought it best to obtain Reverend Worcester’s advice regarding the upcoming meeting. The dilemma in which they found themselves was whether to disclose anything that Christopher might have learned prior to the meeting, or to wait and reveal all on the day of the meeting.
“If Christopher has found Grace, and brought back the necessary proof, it is my opinion that we should wait to reveal all at the meeting and not before,” advised Reverend Worcester. “I am concerned that Jarret is much too clever and with a little foreknowledge could set everything that we intend to do, on its ear.”
Everyone was in agreement, for they knew that there was wisdom in Reverend Worcester’s words. Following their meeting with Reverend Worcester, they each set off for their respective homes with a peace that everything would turn out all right in the end.
Chapter 30
Christopher Brings Good News/Unspoken Feelings
* * *
Upon the arrival of the shallop to Salisbury, as promised, Christopher accompanied Rebecca to town where she found someone to direct her to Mr. Bailey’s homestead. After sending her on her way, Christopher set off to see what had been accomplished at his homestead while he was away.
While Anthony was in town to speak with Reverend Worcester he caught sight of Christopher strolling down the road. “Christopher, how good it is to see you!” exclaimed Anthony joyously. “We have all been anxious to see you since we learned that a ship had arrived in Ipswich.”
“Yes . . . well, I delayed leaving there until after the marriage of Mr. Carr,” replied Christopher.
“We were pleasantly surprised by the news of Mr. Carr,” Anthony responded. “But what of Grace? Were you successful at locating her?”
“There is so much to tell. Will you accompany me to my homestead? I am anxious to see the progress that has been made whilst I have been away. Moreover, I do not wish to be overheard, as the news from England is just as we had believed it to be.”
“Christopher, so much has happened while you have been gone. But first, your news.”
Once Anthony
had accompanied Christopher to his property, Christopher informed him of everything that had taken place in England. After hearing Christopher’s news, Anthony informed him of everything that had taken place in Salisbury during his absence.
“May I see the document that you have obtained?” inquired Anthony.
Christopher then showed Anthony the affidavit in which the whole truth concerning Jarret and his abandonment of Grace was disclosed. Moreover, it contained various signatures from esteemed gentlemen of Norwich.
“Anthony, there is further news from England,” said Christopher, with a downcast expression.
“Judging by your expression, it must be of a most unpleasant nature.”
“It is indeed. England may soon be at war,” replied Christopher. “Furthermore, it is sure to have a great effect even here.”
“The rumors of a war in England have already made their way here,” replied Anthony. “We have heard tell of further disputes between Parliament and the king.”
“It is essential that the board of selectmen address the matter as soon as possible,” insisted Christopher. “Come what may, it is imperative that we are prepared.”
“Once the rumors began, some have said they are prepared to return to England to fight against the king, if necessary,” divulged Anthony.
“That is not surprising,” replied Christopher. “Well, as there is nothing we can do about it for the moment, let us discuss the forthcoming meeting.”
“Yes, the meeting. Despite all that has taken place to malign the character of Jane, it is my opinion that the document you have in your possession, shall surely save her from a compulsory marriage to Jarret,” declared Anthony, relieved.
Still mulling over everything concerning Jane, Christopher said, “The poor woman, having to suffer at the hand of Jarret following the tragic loss of her husband. It is simply inconceivable to what lengths Jarret will go to get what he wants. The sooner we put an end to all of this, the better for Jane.”
Given Jarret’s latest offenses, Christopher was all the more convinced that God had allowed him success so that he might prevent Jarret from disrupting the lives of the members of this newly founded town any longer.
“I agree,” replied Anthony, with all gratitude for his friend’s efforts. “However, Christopher, there is more that I have not as yet disclosed, for it is distressing even to think of it. You see, Jane was with child up until a confrontation with Jarret in town one day; after which, she lost the child. Not many have been made aware of this, as it would surely have been fodder for the gossipmongers had it become known throughout the town.”
“How terrible! I can certainly understand withholding such news considering what had been alleged,” Christopher responded solemnly.
“Who knows of Grace and our plan to get the proof of her existence?” inquired Christopher.
“The Bleasdells, the Fosters, and Reverend Worcester,” replied Anthony. “It became necessary to inform the aforementioned, as it was not certain that your return would be in time for the meeting. I also thought it best to give Jane hope at a time when she was beginning to sink deep into despair regarding her future.”
“You did what was right, by my estimation, as it was by no means certain that I should have been successful. The truth regarding Jarret needed to be made known, at the very least, to those who were being most affected by his troublesome behavior,” replied Christopher.
“Let us talk about something else for a while. Whenever I think on all that Jarret has done to Jane, it only serves to intensify my anger. If I do not keep my wits about me, I may just decide to throttle him now and not wait for the meeting. So, tell me more about Mr. Carr’s marriage,” said Anthony, attempting to calm himself with more uplifting conversation.
“Yes, that is a more joyful topic,” replied Christopher. “Mr. Carr met his bride, Elizabeth, on our voyage. As they wished to be quickly wed, they were married the day after our arrival to Ipswich. As I have already stated, that is the reason for my delay in returning to Salisbury. Though I was eager to come directly, I thought it best to remain and see him married.”
“I met some gentlemen with whom you are acquainted, Mr. Winsley and George Martin,” said Anthony. “They were with you, were they not, on the ship over from England?”
“They were,” replied Christopher. “Now I understand. It was they who informed you of the marriage of Mr. Carr and Elizabeth.”
“Yes, I sought them out upon hearing of the arrival of a couple of gentlemen from England and you were nowhere to be found. Many of us were becoming concerned regarding your whereabouts,” replied Anthony.
“To be sure, what with the meeting approaching. It is curious, but we have been so absorbed by our conversation that I have not, as yet, had a look around at my homestead. I envisioned it many times while I was away. It seems that the men have nearly completed the work.”
“Yes, and proficiently so,” replied Anthony.
“It was good of Mr. Carr to allow his men to come here and work,” remarked Christopher.
“He was happy to have you accompany him on such a long journey. He simply wished to reward you in some way,” remarked Anthony.
“I was in hopes that it might be completed upon my return. Seeing that it nearly is, I believe I shall speak with Maddie,” said Christopher.
Comprehending Christopher’s meaning, Anthony gleefully inquired, “Did you say that you are going to speak to Maddie?”
“Yes, I am determined that I shall not allow any more time to pass without making my feelings known to Maddie,” replied Christopher.
“I have suspected that your feelings were such for some time,” replied Anthony. “I too am to be wed, for I have asked Jane to marry me once this business with Jarret is behind us.”
“I wish you equal felicity in marriage,” said Christopher, looking very pleased. “That is, of course, if Maddie shall have me. However, let us keep what I have said between us until such time as I have spoken to Maddie.”
“To be sure. I shall not breathe a word to anyone.”
“Anthony, how is Maddie?” inquired Christopher.
“Madeline has become a good friend to Jane these many months that you have been away. They are regularly together along with Bridget Dudly.”
“Have you been, recently, in the company of the Bleasdells?” inquired Christopher.
“Certainly,” replied Anthony. “Mr. Bleasdell has been assisting in this entire matter with Jane.
“And how is Elizabeth faring?” inquired Christopher.
“Tolerably well,” replied Anthony. “I do believe, however, that her time is getting close. Emma and Jane visit her on a regular basis, as they are to assist with the birth. Elizabeth is one of only a few who will allow Emma to be her midwife.”
“What may I ask is the reason for this censure of Emma?” inquired Christopher stunned.
“A mother in her care had a child in which birth anomalies were found; after which, the baby survived but a short while. It is the opinion of some that Jarret is behind the censure. It was discovered that he initiated rumors that Emma was somehow the responsible party.”
“Looking back over all that he has done, is it not astonishing that one man can cause so much injury to so many?” asked Christopher.
“To be sure, and just as we are lulled into complacency with regard to Jarret, he launches a new attack,” replied Anthony, angrily.
“Well, no more talk of Jarret,” said Christopher, wishing to change the subject. “I must make my way over to the Bleasdell’s home tomorrow, or I shall be utterly reproached by Elizabeth for not calling directly upon my arrival.”
“Well, my friend, I must be off to call on the Fosters. They shall be very happy that you have finally returned with the proof that will free Jane from any further trouble with Jarret.”
Anthony and Christopher said goodbye as Anthony made haste to speak with the Fosters.
Mr. Foster greeted him as he arrived and ushered him into the hous
e.
“Good day, Emma, and, Jane,” said Anthony cheerfully. “I have the best of news to share. Christopher is back with the document that we had all hoped he would secure. Contained within, is a clearly written declaration that Jarret Ormsby is married and that he has abandoned his wife, Grace, in England.”
“Oh, Anthony, this is finally to be over,” sighed Jane. “I am grateful beyond words to you and Christopher.”
“Anthony, I do not know how we shall ever repay you for all that you have done for Jane,” cried Emma. “We have all come to depend on you so.”
“I am happy to be of assistance,” replied Anthony. “You have all come to mean so much to me.”
Anthony made his way to Carr’s Island following his visit with the Fosters. Things for Jane had much improved; thus, he found himself breathing a little easier. As he sauntered along, he thought of Jane and their future together. He had scarcely allowed himself to think on such things, as the whole business with Jarret had cast such a shadow over any hope they had for a future in Salisbury. They may well have had to begin their marriage in secret, fleeing from a forced marriage. With that thought, Anthony looked up to heaven and thanked God for His mercy, asking for His blessings to be upon his union with Jane.
The Fosters conversed for hours after Anthony had gone. It was as if a dark cloud had been lifted and the sun had begun to shine once again. They spoke about happy days gone by and the much happier days that were to come now that this would all be put behind them. Jane felt that for the first time since Anthony had revealed his feelings for her, she could conceive of a life together with him.
***
The next day, Christopher rose early to call on the Bleasdells. He had been restless for most of the night with thoughts of Maddie. He wondered how she would receive him after so many months away. The closer he got to his destination, the more his heart began to race. What shall I say to her? he wondered as he attempted to formulate the words he would employ in expressing his feelings to Maddie.
Lost Love and Shipwrecked: Madeline Pike Finds Hope in the New Land Page 19