Chapter Nineteen- The Nuptials
“Loretta you have to hold still while I pin this seam. Isabel talk to your daughter before I stick her with this pin. I have to get this fitting done before dark.” Martha was applying the finishing touches to Loretta's wedding gown and Isabel Langley, usually very sophisticated in her appearance and attitude was fussing like a mother hen.
“You know Daughter, this is the most beautiful dress I have seen in this city. As you know, I have attended most of the high society weddings. You are very lucky to have a friend as talented as Martha.” Isabel was admiring all of the detail that had been taken with her daughter's gown. The crinoline domed skirt silhouette had a flattened front and a dramatic sweep to the garment back. The fabric was the softest of silk and a snowy white. Tiny pearls and feathers were sewn strategically over the bodice and the bottom section of the sleeves. The sleeve tops were puffy from the shoulder down to the elbow where they hugged the lower arm tightly.
“This gown will be the talk of the town Martha. I assure you that the best of St. Louis society will be in attendance and I know that the ladies will be curious as to the creator of such a lovely garment.” Isabel was a pleasant woman but very society conscious. Her husband was away a great deal as wagon master and she spent her time embroiled in all things upper class. Martha found her a bit snobbish and often had to bite her tongue when in conversation with Isabel. Loretta was much more friendly and down to earth and Martha truly loved her as a sister.
“Thank you for your compliments Isabel but I'm sure the ladies of St. Louis have designers of their own. Now Loretta step out of the gown and let me finish it up. Tomorrow we'll finish the veil and headdress.” Martha was thoroughly enjoying herself. She found a new sense of pride as the creation took shape.
The day of the wedding was sunny and bright. Jeremy arrived dressed in a tailored navy blue suit to escort Martha and the boys to the wedding. He had considered inviting Clarise, however Loretta made it very clear that he was to escort Martha and the boys. As best man he was to be there early and Martha was going to help Loretta with any last minute adjustments to her gown. The boys were most uncomfortable in their fussy suits and were wishing the wedding were over so they could change. Isaac pulled at his tight collar causing his tie to sag. Abraham had unbuttoned the top button of his shirt and then cleverly covered it with his tie.
Jeremy arranged the boys in the coach and turned to see Martha coming down the front stairs. He gasped at the breathtaking sight. She wore her new gown of forest green, crinoline skirt, low cut bodice and at her throat was her mother's emerald necklace. Her shining chestnut hair was gathered on top with several ringlets cascading down the back of her head. Jeremy thought that he had never seen such an enchanting sight in all of his life.
“Wow Mama you look like a princess.” Ezekiel chirped followed by loud approval from the other two boys.
“You certainly do, your coach your highness.” Jeremy bowed and kissed Martha's hand. She giggled, pleased with her appearance and the look of desire in Jeremy's eyes. She had taken great pains with her gown and wanted it to be very special. Isabel's comment about the ladies of St. Louis had struck a cord with her and she was determined to make an impression. Perhaps there was a future in dress design for Martha and if so this was the place to start. She was happy and content while she sewed the wedding gown for Loretta and this starting her thinking that perhaps this was her calling.
“Sit beside me Mama.” Ezekiel was suddenly jealous of Jeremy's attention to Martha and wanted to get the two of them apart as quickly as possible. “Move over Abraham, Mama will need lots of room with that big skirt.”
The Wells’ wedding was the social affair of the year in St. Louis. Over one hundred carefully chosen guests were in attendance. The bride and groom made a most handsome couple and the wedding gown was the talk of the town. A pianist and a five-piece band provided the entertainment for the guests. Jeremy danced with Martha holding her tightly in his arms as they floated to a Viennese waltz. Clarise Graham, not having met Martha and wondering just who she was, glared at them from the other side of the room.
“You look absolutely breathtaking this evening Martha. That gown is stunning and I see the ladies of St. Louis are discussing both you and your dress. I also notice that the gentlemen seem to be taking notice.” Several gentlemen asked her to dance much to his chagrin. He advised the boys to keep their mother busy dancing and thanks to the three boys; any future suitors were chased away.
The wine made Martha relaxed and talkative. She found Jeremy easy to talk to. “I feel like I have woken up from a terrible nightmare and now I'm dreaming of this beautiful wedding. The music is food for my starving soul and this dress makes me feel beautiful again. You could not know how ugly and undesirable I felt in Wyoming. There was only one time I can remember feeling attractive.” She got a faraway look on her face. Her memories of Sergeant Dwyer's handsome face began to surface but were quickly replaced with the horror of his death. Martha shook the sadness from her mind and looked at Jeremy. His body was warm against hers; his arms felt comfortable and secure as they danced. Martha found herself physically aroused by his handsome face and his tall masculine build. Could she possibly learn to enjoy the physical side of love with someone like him? Was Loretta right? Should I make advances towards him, before he is swept away by someone else? Suddenly, conscious of Jeremy's eyes on her face, her cheeks burned crimson with embarrassment. She smiled demurely and returned her thoughts to the dancing. She was enjoying herself. This reminded her of the Gala Balls in England. How she had missed the music, the dancing and the beautiful clothes. At last, she felt as if her future was bright. She was amused at the young boys’ possessiveness and more than a little flattered at the several dance invitations she received. She laughed several times when a prospective suitor approached only to be interrupted by Isaac, Abraham or Ezekiel. She danced with each of the boys and thoroughly enjoyed the evening.
Later as she spun around the dance floor with Abraham, she caught sight of Jeremy dancing with a beautiful raven- haired woman. The woman was laughing and whispered something in his ear causing him to grin flirtatiously. Martha noticed that Jeremy held her very close. The woman raised her eyes in Martha's direction. Their eyes locked and the woman immediately raised her hand to stroke Jeremy's face possessively. Loosing her concentration, Martha almost tripped over Abraham's feet. Loretta danced past with Austin, pointing her finger in Jeremy's direction and mouthing the words-‘Look at that. I told you so.’ There was nothing she could do about it at the moment. Destiny would prevail and if she were meant to be with Jeremy then things would work out for them. She danced to the other side of the room with Abraham, destiny or not, she didn't have to watch him with someone else.
Austin and Loretta were very happy. They would live in Austin's flat and travel to England in three weeks time. Austin was sorry that his mother could not be here for the ceremony but knew that she would love Loretta when they met. Food and drink was plentiful and Arthur and Isabel Langley were very proud of their new son-in-law. Arthur would have preferred someone with a little more interest in the rugged life, but Isabel was thrilled to have a businessman in the family. She was sure to introduce Austin to every influential gentleman at the wedding. She was also telling all of the females who had designed and sewn the bridal gown and pointed out Martha's own lovely dress. Isabel loved to be the center of attention and was determined to be one up on everyone else.
Several days after the wedding, Isabel Langley invited Martha to the country club for lunch. Wanting to make a good impression, Martha wore one of her new gowns in a deep royal blue with lace at the throat and a large blue hat, embellished with a peacock feather. Conversations turned to Martha as she entered the dining room. “Who is that with Isabel?”
“I don't know but that gown is definitely from Europe,” Mrs. Carruthers remarked, appreciating the way Martha's presence took command of the room.
“I love that hat,” on
e of the other women added.
Introductions were made. Isabel informing everyone that Martha was newly settled in St. Louis originally from England. Martha noted that she eliminated any mention of Wyoming. I guess Wyoming isn't socially acceptable, what unbelievable snobbery. Although it grated on her, she remained silent. Over the course of the luncheon, the women politely made their inquiries as to the design and origin of Martha's gown. Isabel reminded them that Martha had sewn and designed Loretta's wedding gown, being sure to add that Martha was making her dress for the Christmas ball. The other women looked at her with envy, which was the desired effect. Isabel was enjoying herself immensely. What happened next surprised Isabel.
Agatha Carruthers offered to show Martha around the club. Agatha was usually very reserved with new comers. The tall and stately woman was much respected in St. Louis and the pair drew a great deal of attention as they walked out into the formal gardens.
“I would like you to come for tea tomorrow at 4, Martha.” Agatha Carruthers was impressed with this young woman.
“Oh Mrs. Carruthers, I would be honored.” Martha treated the older woman with great respect. She found Mrs. Carruthers, who Martha guessed to be about 65 years old, to be extremely knowledgeable. Thin, poised and gray haired, Agatha was interested in everything. It was as if she had found a source of unending amusement in the world around her, making anyone who came in contact with her feel that life was worth living. The two chatted as they continued their promenade through the gardens of the country club.
Isabel Langley was surprised at the attention Agatha Carruthers showed Martha. On the ride home, she reminded Martha just how lucky she was. “ The Carruthers come from royalty you know. Her husband's grandfather was a Duke,” emphasizing the word Duke she continued, “ You should be honored that she invited you to her home.” Isabel was green with envy, but if Martha were a success in St. Louis society, she would be sure to take the credit. Martha's stomach was full of butterflies as she realized the possibilities.
The next afternoon, a nervous Martha arrived at the imposing mansion on the north side of St. Louis. She had barely slept the night before. Taking extra care with her appearance, the rose silk blouse and navy wool skirt were perfect for afternoon tea. Her curiosity was peaked by the older woman's apparent friendliness toward her.
The visit went well with each sharing amusing stories of England. Martha noticed a piano in the corner and wandered over to it. She allowed her fingers to play a few chords. Mrs. Carruthers watched her with interest. “We bought the piano for Priscilla, our daughter. Unfortunately, she died shortly after it was delivered. She was only twenty.” Martha watched as a deep sadness crossed the grieving woman's face before she turned away. “Do you have a piano in your home, Martha?”
“Oh no, we have no room or money for a piano. I have three stepsons to raise. It has been a few years since I last played.” Martha played a few more notes before returning to the settee.
Appearing to want to change the subject, Agatha Carruthers quickly turned the conversation to fashion.
“Martha, my dear. I would like you to design a gown for me. My husband and I are traveling to New York in a month's time and I will need a very special gown for the Gala.” Mrs. Carruthers paused to sip her tea. She lifted the tiny cucumber sandwich to her lips delicately.
Martha sat in shocked silence. Her teacup began to rattle in its saucer as she nervously set it on the table. Had she heard correctly?
“You are very talented my dear. I will pay you a sizeable amount for the gown naturally.”
“Oh Mrs. Carruthers, you flatter me. I would be more than happy to make a gown for you. Thank you for your confidence in me.” Martha blushed with excitement. Arrangements were made for a fitting and Martha was to draw several design choices for Agatha over the next few days. The butler arrived to clear the dishes and Martha prepared to leave. Agatha Carruthers shook her hand delicately and smiled at the young woman's apparent nervousness.
She left feeling elated and excited. Sitting in the carriage she offered up a silent prayer. Thank you God, help me make this a reality. Give me strength and imagination to design a beautiful gown for her.
Word spread quickly through the club that Martha Whittaker was designing a gown for Agatha Carruthers. Having observed Martha's own creations, the women were most impressed with the flair and style of her designs and anxiously awaited the completion.
Within a month the gown was complete, ready for delivery. She was surprised to be ushered into the parlor where seven other ladies were seated. “Martha, just give that to William and have a seat.” Martha did not expect there to be other women present. She thought she was coming for a final fitting. Confused she took her seat and nodded to the others. She recognized most of the women from the country club. A few minutes of chitchat and a glass of sherry increased rather than diminished, Martha's apprehension.
Mrs. Carruthers and Martha went upstairs for the final fitting. Martha was very nervous. What if she doesn't like it? I will be so embarrassed in front of everyone. I just don't understand why she invited them today of all days. The gown was purple velvet, floor length, with clean, sophisticated lines. Martha thought that the color was lovely with Agatha's gray hair and pale skin. She was not a beautiful woman but would be considered handsome. There was a certain quality about the woman that made her appear more attractive than women with perfect features. The dress fit like a glove.
“You have outdone yourself my dear.” Agatha admired her reflection in the mirror. After turning left, then right and admiring the back of the dress, she walked to the dresser and handed Martha an envelope. Martha had given her a tally of the expenses for the gown and added a small amount for her time; the envelope contained three times what she had requested.
“Mrs. Carruthers, you have given me too much.” She began to protest but the older woman held up her hand.
“Martha, do not sell yourself short. You and this gown are worth every penny in that envelope. I told the other women that you were delivering my gown today. Curiosity overtook them and they all invited themselves for a viewing. Once they see this gown, you will be swamped with orders.” Agatha twirled around like a schoolgirl in her new gown. A huge smile lit up her face. She was obviously pleased. “I told them your prices start at the amount in that envelope and not one of them so much as blinked. I have set the stage, now go and make your debut my dear, and thank you.” With that she kissed Martha's cheek and shooed her out the door.
Martha stood in the hallway trying to catch her breath. Mrs. Carruthers was happy and now the cream of St. Louis’ society was about to see the finished product. Her hands were sweaty and her heart was pounding. She took a few deep breaths before nervously descending the stairs and returning to the parlor.
Moments later, Agatha Carruthers made a stunning entrance, complete with upswept hair and a diamond tiara. A collective gasp rose up with the women rushing to her side. The room was alive with chatter. They touched the soft velvet, stroked the long skirt and sighed with admiration. Martha was beaming. From across the room, Agatha winked at her, smiling her magical knowing smile.
Over the next seven days, much happened to increase Martha's appreciation of the good fortune that had brought her and Mrs. Carruthers together. Several of the club members, not wanting to be outdone, requested that Martha design gowns for the Christmas Ball. She was in shock at the quick response.
Martha met with Agatha and Isabel for a celebratory glass of wine at the Country Club. Isabel gushed over Martha, constantly repeating, “I told you so.” The wine was a deep Merlot with a fine bouquet and a brilliant color. As she raised her glass to her lips, Martha's face reflected her appreciation of the delicate flavor. “You know good wine, Martha. Just as you know fine fabrics and elegant design,” Isabel commented, always trying to impress Mrs. Carruthers and making sure she was included in this celebration raised her glass to toast Martha's upcoming success. Mrs. Carruthers simply smiled. Martha was in awe of both
Isabel and Agatha. Both of them had been instrumental in helping her achieve her dream. It appeared she would be very busy for the next few months. Hopefully she would be up to the task. Smiling self-assuredly, she thanked the women for their confidence in her abilities. She glanced in Isabel's direction thinking, Thank goodness for Isabel Langley's snobbish society connections. Now Lord, help me do this well.
Austin and Loretta left for England and Jeremy was busy with his business. He had invited Miss Graham to dinner and the opera on several occasions and thoroughly enjoyed himself. He did find her to be rather forward, but was finding it harder and harder to resist. He tried to convince himself that Martha was never going to come to him and that perhaps he should move on. He desired Miss Graham physically, but in his heart it was Martha that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with.
Martha sewed long into the night and the gowns were all original in design and color. This was to be her future. No matter how hard she had to work, she would make a success of it. Martha found a strength and determination she didn't know she possessed in Wyoming and now she would use it to form her destiny. Knowing women like Olga and Margaret had instilled a resolve and strength of character in her and she would not let them down. She decided to pour all of her energies into the work, needing to distract herself from the ever-insistent Loretta, who persisted in telling her that Miss. Graham was wooing Jeremy and Jeremy was weakening.
Dreams and Nightmares Page 19