The Whittaker Family Reunion

by Shirley A. Roe

  “So, you tell your parents that you and I are going to the symphony on Thursday night. Then on Thursday you come and pick me up at seven and then I will go straight to the train station and you can go to the symphony. Once I am on the train it will be too late for Mother to stop me. I will be off to New York for three glorious days.” Anna rambled on, not giving David a chance to interrupt. “I will leave a note and you can say that I changed my mind about the symphony after you picked me up, so you went alone. That way you will not get into trouble because you didn't know what I was up to. Okay?” Anna knew it was ‘Okay’ because David never refused her. Sometimes she felt guilty for using their friendship, but most often the guilt was short lived. Anna Whittaker was very self- centered. She spent little time thinking of the consequences of her actions or of anyone but herself.

  “No problem, I will mention the symphony tonight at dinner and I will see you on Thursday at seven but you had better be careful in New York. That is a long way from St. Louis. Those other girls are older than you and you never know what they might get up to. I am going to say that I am picking you up at seven on Thursday and then I am going to the symphony. That way I will not be lying to my parents. You know that I could not do that, Anna. I just hope you know what you are doing. Your schemes are getting more complicated as the years go by.” David looked lovingly at Anna but her mind was miles away in New York. “Now I must go, I am meeting my friends at the lawn bowls.”

  Thursday at seven at the train station, I will be waiting, my lovely young woman. The stranger backed away from the shrubs slowly, making sure to stay in the shadows and unseen. It was all coming together nicely. It was a difficult trip to St. Louis but well worth the effort. When he heard about the Whittaker Reunion he knew it was time. What a reunion it would be, he would make sure of that!

  Chapter Fifteen

  First to Arrive

  “Mama, Papa, are you here?” Ezekiel looked around the huge entrance hall. Memories of his happier childhood days came flooding back. He strolled to the gilded mirror on the wall remembering Martha pushing back a stray lock of hair. It was an unconscious ritual with her to check the mirror and fix her hair, especially when she was stressed.

  “Master Ezekiel, welcome, sir.” Charles bowed to the young man and then pushing formality aside he embraced him in a most manly yet loving hug. “We have missed you, sir.”

  “And I you, Charles, you can not know how fabulous it feels to be home, really home. Are Mama or Papa home?” Ezekiel looked around the large mansion once again, feeling comfortable and at ease. He realized he had sentimentally reverted back to saying Mama, instead of Mother.

  “Your mother is in the conservatory, I will go and fetch her. Then I will take your bags to your room and unpack for you.”

  “No, let me surprise her, Charles. Thank you.” Ezekiel passed through the great room and down the long corridor to the conservatory. Large tropical plants filled the space. The sun filtered through the glass and the air was moist and earthy. He found Martha gently dead-heading a rare orchid. “Hello, the most beautiful woman in the world.”

  Martha swung about in surprise. “Ezekiel, is it really you? Oh my son, my son, how I have missed you!” She threw herself into his open arms and the two embraced lovingly. She admired his cutaway morning coat worn over a dress shirt and ascot tie. This type of tie was much more popular in Europe than here in America. Always conscious of fashion, Martha remarked that he looked very stylish.

  “Mama, I have missed you and all of the family terribly. It is so good to be home.” Ezekiel took her hand and led her to the bench under the huge Dieffenbachia. “Now, tell me all of your news. The letters are most enjoyable, but it takes so long between that I am sure I am far behind. How is Anna?”

  “Anna, oh please, let us speak of more pleasant things. Your sister is quite the handful I am afraid. I do not remember having such problems with you and your brothers. Wait until Jeremy sees you. He will be so happy that you are home. Tell me about your trip. Did you have a pleasant voyage?” Martha looked at her son. He had matured over the past two years but in her eyes he would always be that studious little boy, the first of the three to call her “Mama.” The two wiled away the next three hours catching up on life and soon the rest of the family began to arrive.

  “Charles, have Jeremy come into the great room, but do not tell him that Ezekiel is here.” Martha was excited for Jeremy to see his nephew/son. Jeremy was more of a father to the boys that Jebediah had ever been. Jeremy was loving and caring, where Jebediah was nothing but cruel and manipulative. Don't think of that man, push him from your mind; he will not ruin this reunion. Martha heeded her own advice, took a deep breath, and regained her thoughts. She straightened her gown, ready for her husband's return.

  Jeremy arrived within minutes and was ushered into the great room by the ever-obedient Charles. “Hello, Darling, how was your day?” He kissed Martha's waiting lips and sat beside her on the settee.

  “My day was absolutely fabulous as I am sure yours will be shortly.” Jeremy looked at her curiously and then misunderstanding her intentions reached over and pulled her close. “No, that is not the surprise, now turn around.” She giggled at his misunderstanding, blushing at Ezekiel's observation of his mother and father together in an intimate embrace.

  “Ezekiel!” Jeremy rushed to his son and pulled him tightly into his arms. “When did you arrive?” He extended his grasp to look at his son. “You look tremendous, life in England certainly agrees with you. You must tell me all about Pheasant Run.” His son smiled. “How are things at your school? Welcome home Son.” Ezekiel took the chair to his mother's right. The three enjoyed a brandy and some much anticipated conversation. Jeremy watched Martha's face, engrossed in Ezekiel's every word. He knew that his wife was happier than she had been in weeks. Anna's frustrating behavior could be forgotten for now. Perhaps Martha could relax and enjoy their son. He reached over and hugged her shoulder tenderly. She turned and smiled, her blue eyes reaching deep into his soul.

  The next morning, Ezekiel walked around St. Louis happy to be back. Agatha Carruthers’ house was first on his list. He rang the bell and was greeted by the noble lady herself. “Grandmam Agatha, how beautiful you look.” The old woman gushed over him thoroughly enjoying his visit. She remembered years before when her husband, Phillip, had encouraged the boys to call him Grandpap Phillip and that made her their Grandmam. She was delighted and always thought of the Whittaker boys as family. This reunion would be good for her soul, all the family back together happy and healthy again. Martha and her family were always a big part of Agatha's life, especially after losing Phillip. After an hour, Ezekiel he left her feeling invigorated. She called for her carriage and headed into town. Refusing a ride, Ezekiel walked through the old neighborhood and into the downtown area.

  Ezekiel passed the library just as a most attractive blonde descended the steps. She looked in his direction and suddenly dropped the huge stack of books. Always the gentleman, he quickly retrieved them for her. Standing one step below her, he stared into her shocked face. “Ezekiel! Is it really you?”

  “Yes, but I am afraid you have me at an advantage. I don't seem to know your name.” She was a real beauty but nothing about her seemed familiar.

  “Zeke, it's me, Abby. Abby Wells, surely you could not have forgotten me after all these years.” Disappointed and heartbroken, she turned away from him.

  “Abby! Oh my goodness. Is it really you? But you were a little girl last time I saw you.” He reached out and touched her arm; she turned back towards him. “How lovely to see you, I apologize for not recognizing you but you have grown into a lovely woman in my absence.” She smiled. Ezekiel handed her the books, noticing the one on top. “Ballads and Sonnets-Five English Poets, why this is one of my favorites. Have you read it?”

  “Yes, I am doing my thesis on the English poets and I am quite fascinated with Keats, but Shelly is a bit odd.” Ezekiel laughed and Abby began to relax. Is it really
him? Is he finally here? She had been waiting for this moment for so long. The two began to walk comfortably together discussing the poets and the arts. Ezekiel was surprised at the intelligence and poise of this young woman. He was undeniably impressed and a little surprised that this was the same child who had given him the teddy bear many years before. Abby was trying to hide her nervousness. This was the man she had loved since she was a baby. The man of her dreams and here he was walking down the street with her as if it were commonplace.

  “Here we are, won't you come in and say hello?” Ezekiel climbed the familiar stairs and entered a house that he had visited often as a child. Abby, in her turmoil had forgotten this.

  “Ezekiel Whittaker is that really you?” Minnie smiled broadly at the young man she had helped raise. He came to her and hugged her lovingly.

  “Grandma Minnie, how good it is to see you. How is your arthritis? You look the same as I remember.” Minnie smiled; taking in the two young people she looked puzzled.

  “How did you two meet up? When did you arrive?” Ezekiel and Abby explained how they had “bumped into” each other and the three laughed. “I bet you didn't recognize her, did you? Our Abby has grown into quite the lovely young woman since you have been gone.”

  “I am sorry to say that I did not, however I am quite impressed with this new improved Abby.” Abby blushed a bright scarlet and turned away shyly. Ezekiel winked at Minnie.

  “How is England? I must say I really don't miss it after all these years. I do detect a slight accent when you speak that brings back old memories.”

  “England, the old sod, is wonderful. I am sure I am starting to sound like I never left there. I don't think about my accent until someone comments on it or until I say something like ‘Bloody Hell’ and watch the American reaction.” He laughed.

  “Well, it is good to have you home. We have all missed you.” Minnie glanced sideways at Abby.

  “I must be going. I am sure we will see much of each other in the coming weeks.” He bowed, taking first Minnie and then Abby's hand. Placing a kiss on one, then the other, he left the house whistling to himself.

  “Oh, Gran, he is really home. I am so happy.” Abby hugged her grandmother, who was smiling broadly, but her thoughts were of concern. Just don't get your heart broken, my pet.

  Ezekiel was in a relaxing mood as he continued his tour of St. Louis. Many familiar places brought back memories and he was very glad he had come home. The next day he would travel to Isaac's farm and surprise him.

  The day started out cloudy and dull. Ezekiel rode toward Isaac's farm, enjoying the sights and sounds of America. It felt good to be back. The farm came into view and his first impression was how it had grown over the past two years. He rode up to the house, tied his horse and stood looking around. A young boy struggled from the barn carrying a huge bale of hay. “Do you need help with that?”

  “Naw, I've got it.” Then actually looking towards the voice, Thomas realized who it was. “Uncle Zeke, great to see you.” He dropped the bale and flew into Zeke's arms. Then as a quick reversal he backed up and offered his hand. Ezekiel realized the intended mature gesture and shook it enthusiastically.

  “Thomas, is it really you? You have grown a foot taller since I last saw you. Where is the rest of the family?” Thomas told him that Annabelle had gone to town to the dress shop and Isaac was out mending fences. Just then a small red headed imp bounded from the barn. “And who is this lovely young lady?”

  “Uncle Zeke, wow it has been a really long time since we saw you. I was just a baby then, but I am five now.” Sissy ran towards Ezekiel and leapt most unladylike into his arms. “It's me, Sissy.” He twirled her around laughing out loud.

  “My, my, it really is you Sissy, and quite the farm girl you have become. Why you even smell like the pigs!” He teased her and she giggled.

  “Pigs don't smell Uncle Zeke. I think they are lovely.” Thomas and Sissy showed Uncle Zeke around the farm. The three visited while they waited for Isaac. He arrived driving the wagon filled with broken fence posts and lost in his own world. Ezekiel sat waiting on the porch smoking a very fine cigar. The cigar smoke drifted toward the shed where Isaac tied the horses; the smoky rich odor filled his nostrils, he turned toward the house. “Well, I'll be, is it really you little brother?” The two brothers, one dark and one blond embraced. “Welcome to the farm. I guess you have seen the kids?”

  “Thomas and Sissy were kind enough to show me around, quite an improvement over the last time I was here. Sissy is quite the character I must say and Thomas is so grown up. You are a lucky man, Isaac.”

  “Just wait until Annabelle comes home and you can meet the newest addition. We have another daughter, Amy who wants to see her Uncle Zeke.”

  “You wrote me about Amy, but I am dying to see her and Annabelle.” He clamped his hand on Isaac's shoulder. “Speaking of seeing people, I ran into Abby Wells yesterday. I didn't recognize her. She is quite the young woman now.” Ezekiel's look gave him away and Isaac laughed.

  “I see you haven't changed, always on the look out for a beautiful woman. Just remember that Abby Wells has had a crush on you since she was a baby. Go gently.”

  “Much is new and exciting about St. Louis, brother. I shall heed your brotherly advice.” The two laughed as they removed their boots and walked into the charming country kitchen. They had a great deal to catch up on after two years, delighted to be together once again. Now they would wait for Abraham and have a real reunion.

  Chapter Sixteen

  The Train to New York

  David was very nervous as he watched Anna get on the train. Those other girls were not the kind of people that their parents wanted them to associate with. They were “loose woman” according to his grandmother. I hope you know what you are doing, Anna. His jaw was clenched tightly as he watched the train leave the station. Just as the train pulled away, a tall thin man with dark hair jumped on the back of the caboose. David thought the man was going to lose his grip, but he managed to pull his lean frame up and onto the train. David watched from the platform. Foolish thing to do. Then he headed for the center of town and the symphony, where he had told his parents he was going. David would never lie to his parents, but he had stretched the truth on occasion and always when Anna Whittaker was involved. He would worry about her until she returned on Monday.

  Anna chatted and giggled with the other women, feeling very grown up. “The Grand Hotel is the best hotel in New York. My mother stays there all the time when she is in New York on business.” The others agreed and all looked forward to a totally decadent weekend in New York. “Curious, why they call this train the Nickel Plate Road, an odd name if you ask me.” Several of the girls shrugged, politics and railroads meant nothing to them. Meanwhile, a pair of threatening eyes watched the group from the back of the coach. He would wait until she was alone to make his move.

  He didn't have to wait long. The group decided to go to the dining car for supper, but Anna wanted to freshen up first. She headed for the ladies room. He bumped into her in the hallway almost knocking her over. “My apologies, are you hurt? How careless of me, my mind was elsewhere.” Anna stared into those dark hypnotizing eyes and tried to swallow the lump that was forming in her throat. His face was only inches from hers. She could feel his warm breath on her cheek.

  “I am fine, sir, no apology necessary. I am sure I was as lost in thought as yourself.” She fluttered her eyelashes as him, trying on her new grown up façade.

  “Please, let me walk you to your room.” He took hold of her elbow and nudged her forward. Once they reached her sleeper she paused and turned to look into his eyes.

  “Thank you, my name is Anna Whittaker, what is yours?”

  “People just call me ‘Red’, nice to make your acquaintance. I am sure we will see each other again before we reach New York.” He excused himself and smugly walked back to the dining car. From his perch at the back he could observe the group unseen.

  “I met t
he most interesting man when I went back to my sleeper. He had the most hypnotizing stare; it was rather unnerving really. He wasn't handsome but attractive in an unusual way.” She gushed to the others.

  “Really, Anna, can't you wait until we arrive in New York before you start flirting? There are thousands of men in the big city. We can dance, drink and have a fabulously sinful time. Just wait and see.” One of the young women teased her and they all laughed. Anna was still thinking about ‘Red’. What a strange name. Why would they call him that?

  Hours later, most of the people had retired for the night but Anna was too excited. She strolled from car to car, casually hoping for a glimpse of the mysterious stranger. Suddenly there he was. “Good Evening, Red,” she smiled enticingly at him, he returned the gaze.

  “Well, Miss Whittaker, how lovely you look this evening. Would you care to join me for a whisky?” He knew how old she was, but that was all part of the plan.

  Thinking she had never tasted alcohol in her life, but wanting to keep up the charade, she nodded in assent. He poured her a glass and watched her choke it down. Being inexperienced, she drank it much too quickly and began to giggle and chatter excessively. “Tell me about your family, Anna. May I call you Anna?”

  “Why, of course you may. My family is boring.” She was beginning to slur her words. He poured her another, convincing her that he really wanted to know about the Whittakers. She told him of her mother's fame as an haute couture in St. Louis, her father's successful import/export business, her brothers, the doctor, the professor and the farmer. Anna liked to impress, so she placed momentous importance on all she said. She babbled on, giving him all of the information he wanted.

  “What about your brothers’ father? Do you know anything about him?” Red Fox asked and then held his breath waiting for the answer.

  “Grandfather, you mean my Grandfather McGuire in England?” She was getting confused.