by Ann Shorey
Rosemary drew the hood of her cloak around her face as she made her way home through blowing snow. Frozen droplets struck her nose and cheeks, melting to run down her neck. Bodie trotted at her side, his eyes squinted against the swirling flakes. His feathery collie-like fur hung in limp strings. She’d stayed longer at the mercantile than she’d planned and now dusk had settled over the streets. Even the horses that passed on the road seemed in a hurry to get out of the storm.
She paused in front of the barbershop at the corner of Second Street and peered in the direction of her house. A shadowy figure moved eastward beyond her fence, then disappeared into the gray twilight. Bodie growled low in his throat.
“That’s enough. We’re almost there.” The last thing she needed was to have her dog chase after a fellow pedestrian. Bodie didn’t weigh more than forty pounds, but he didn’t know that.
Rosemary crossed the street and covered the remaining distance to her front gate, stepping with care over icy patches on the boardwalk. When she unfastened the latch, her gaze fell on fresh tracks leading to her porch and back to the street. The person she’d seen must have been inside her yard.
Drawing her cloak to one side, she placed a foot inside one of the tracks. The outline dwarfed her small boot. A man’s shoe, no doubt. But who? If Curt had stopped by, he would have waited.
Shivering, she followed Bodie up the brick pathway to the porch steps, then paused at the foot of the stairs. Another set of footprints led around the house. Partially filled in by snow, they remained distinct enough for her to see they were made by a smaller shoe. Two people inside her fence. Three if she counted her predawn visitor. A chill ran down her spine that had nothing to do with the snowy evening. She dropped her hand to Bodie’s collar and held him close until she had locked and bolted her door.
With shaking hands she built up the fire in the kitchen, then draped her cloak over a chair to dry. She’d been on her own since Curt and Faith married last October. Until today, she hadn’t given much thought to her vulnerability. Perhaps Faith was right. She could join them in the large home at the west end of town and give up her notions of independence.
Rosemary sank into a chair and rested her chin on her closed fist, considering the idea. If she moved in with her brother and his wife, how long would it be before people pitied Curt for being burdened with his spinster sister?
She shook her head. She would take care of herself. By herself.
Water bubbled from the spout of the teakettle and sputtered on the stovetop. She stepped into the pantry and brought out a glass jar containing a special jasmine tea mixture that she used when she needed to focus her thoughts. After measuring leaves into a white porcelain teapot, she poured hot water over them, savoring the perfume-like fragrance of jasmine flowers.
Bodie had wriggled behind the cookstove and lay there panting with contentment. The sable patch around his left eye gave him a mischievous appearance. Rosemary grinned. As long as she had her watchdog, she’d stay right where she was. If the Lord wanted her to have a husband, he’d send someone her way. And if not, she believed he’d show her how to support herself without burdening her brother.
The dog stirred and pricked one ear up. Growling, he crawled out from his retreat and darted to the front door. His deep barks shattered the fragile peace.
Elijah Stewart took a step away from the door. From the sound of the barking, Miss Saxon must keep bulldogs in her sitting room. Footsteps approached. In a moment the door opened a crack and she peeked out at him.
“Dr. Stewart?” Her voice rose to an incredulous pitch. “What are you doing here?” Face reddening, she stepped back, motioning him to enter. “I mean, I didn’t expect to see you.”
A sable and white dog stood at her side eyeing him, hackles raised. The animal looked smaller than his bark. He held the back of his hand toward the dog’s nose, then moved with caution into the closet-like entryway. A flight of enclosed stairs rose directly in front of him. To the right, a lamp burned on a table in the tidy sitting room.
Miss Saxon gestured toward a pair of cushioned chairs beneath the front window. “Please, sit.”
He removed his hat and settled onto one of the chairs. She opened the curtains, then remained on her feet, facing him. Surprised, he raised an eyebrow. “Am I to be on display?”
“I’m alone here. It’s not proper for me to entertain a gentleman caller. With the curtains open, anyone can see we’re not behaving in an unseemly fashion. It’s a beastly night, or we would have talked on the porch.”
“You didn’t tell me you lived alone.”
“You didn’t ask,” she said, with a testy edge to her voice.
Prickly women made him nervous. Turning his hat in his hands, he surveyed her plain wool dress. So she didn’t spend her days dressed in silks—that much was to her credit. “I stopped by a bit earlier, but no one was home. I apologize for not leaving my card.”
She nodded. “As I said, I didn’t expect you at all after our meeting. I’ve had no opportunity to contact my supervisor.”
“It doesn’t matter.”
“I thought not. Well, thank you for hearing me out this morning. I wish I could offer you some refreshment before you leave, but I’ve only just returned from town.” She moved toward the door.
He shook his head at her haste to send him away. “Do you always jump to conclusions?”
“Pardon?”
“I came here to tell you I’m willing to give you a try as a nurse in my practice. Of course, most of the time you’ll be occupied with duties other than nursing. Preparing medications, keeping records current, tidying the office.” He waved a hand. “Things like that.”
Miss Saxon left the doorway and sank onto the chair facing him. “Tidying the office? You want a housekeeper, not a nurse.”
Elijah ran his finger under his too-tight collar. Definitely a prickly woman. Her words about being present when he saw female patients had convinced him he needed her help, but if she was going to work for him, she needed to understand who was in charge.
“Miss Saxon, as you no doubt experienced at Jefferson Barracks, nurses were called upon to do everything from writing letters to changing soiled linens and scrubbing floors. If you’re willing to perform those same duties in my office, you’re hired.” He rose and replaced his hat. “I’ll expect you at half past eight on Monday morning. If you have any qualms, then I wish you well in your future endeavors. Good evening.”
3
Rosemary rummaged in a back corner of her wardrobe and removed a rust-colored calico dress. The sight of the plain frock brought the smells and sounds of the Barracks hospital to her memory. She bit her lower lip, wishing she knew another way to support herself. Any acceptance she’d gained since arriving in Noble Springs would surely disappear once word spread that she was employed as a nurse.
The winter chill in her bedroom offered little incentive for reflection. She dropped the gown over her petticoats and fastened the buttons on the bodice, then dashed downstairs to her warm kitchen. The dried thyme and rosemary hanging from the ceiling beams lent the room a savory aroma. She sniffed with appreciation, pinching a bit of her namesake herb between her fingers to stir into her breakfast cornbread.
As she slid the pan into the oven, she heard the sound of a key in the lock. Bodie scooted out from behind the stove and ran into the sitting room, his tail fanning the air. Rosemary hurried after him.
“Just a moment. I need to move the bolt,” she called.
Her brother, Curt Saxon, bent to kiss her cheek after the door opened. “I stopped by to wish you well.” He stepped back, his large hands gripping her upper arms. “Are you sure you’re ready to do this?” A corner of the faded scar on his neck showed above the high collar of his shirt. His dark brown hair bore the fresh tracks of a comb.
She hid a thankful smile. His teaching job at the academy had done wonders for his spirit, shattered after wartime experiences.
“I’ll be fine. A local practice won�
��t be anything like hospital wards.” She took his hand and led him to the kitchen, talking as she went. “I don’t know about Dr. Stewart, though. I think he studied arrogance in medical school.”
He snickered. “As long as you keep a tight rein on your temper, all should be well.”
“I told you what he said when he was here Friday evening. If he continues to talk to me like that, I can’t guarantee anything.” She placed two cups on the table and poured tea for both of them.
He inhaled the steam rising from his cup. “Chamomile. This should help keep you calm.”
“Stop teasing. I’m not that bad.”
“Sorry.” He sipped his tea, a slight frown creasing his forehead. “Why did you have the door bolted? Usually you have trouble remembering to lock it.”
Rosemary stood and lifted a flowerpot from the windowsill. She removed the folded piece of brown paper tucked beneath the pot and handed the scrap to Curt. “This was left on my porch before daylight Friday morning. I think whoever wrote it has mistaken me for someone else. Regardless, the thought of a trespasser frightens me. So I bolt the door.”
He scanned the brief message. “Witches’ brew, eh? No wonder you’re frightened. The writer sounds unhinged. I wish you’d agree to come and live with us.”
“I don’t want to be dependent on anyone. You know that.”
“This changes things.” He tapped the message.
“No it doesn’t.” She locked eyes with him. “Give me a year. Then we’ll discuss this again.”
“A year from when Faith and I were married, not a year from today.”
“Promise you won’t bring up the subject in the meantime?”
Curt stood, blowing out an exasperated sigh. “Maybe.” He winked. “But the offer stands, anytime you change your mind.”
“Get on with you.” She gave him a mock shove. “Your students are waiting.”
After he left, she ate a quick breakfast, left Bodie in the house, and headed for Dr. Stewart’s office. She needed to prove herself to her brother, as well as to her new employer. It wouldn’t do to be late.
The doctor met Rosemary at the door, impressive in a black coat and dark gray waistcoat. “So you decided to take the job. I wasn’t sure.”
She stifled the tart reply that rose to her lips. “I appreciate the opportunity. Thank you. Now if you’ll show me my responsibilities, I’ll begin.”
“We discussed your responsibilities on Friday evening. What we didn’t discuss is salary. Will you accept twenty percent of what comes in every week?” A rueful smile crossed his lips. “Sometimes I’m paid with a ham or venison. You’d get a share of that too.”
“A percentage would be satisfactory. Thank you.” The piddling amount she received from her grandparents’ trust fund covered her rent but didn’t leave much for food and other necessities.
“Excellent.” The doctor exhaled with a huff. He sounded like he’d been holding his breath.
He pointed to a small slant-top desk that had been added to the room since her visit. “This will be your station unless I need your direct assistance. Last week’s receipts are in the drawer and need to be entered. That’s the ledger on the corner of the desk.”
His face took on a boyish look and he grinned at her. “I hope you’re better with figures than I am. I can compound medications all day, but my brain reels at columns of numbers.”
“My brother is a mathematician. Some of his skill has rubbed off on me.” She fought down disappointment. She’d expected to don an apron and assist him with patients, not to act as a clerk tucked away in a corner. Still, if she wanted to live without being dependent on others, she couldn’t let pride stand in the way of employment.
Dr. Stewart must have sensed her inner struggle. “Never fear. When ladies seek my advice, I’ll summon you to the examination room immediately. In the meantime, please tap on my door when a patient arrives.”
“Yes, Doctor.”
When the door to his office closed, she hung her cloak on a hook and tied her apron over her dress. She’d be ready when she was needed.
Rosemary settled behind the desk, realizing he’d positioned her against a windowless wall. A lamp hung from the center of the ceiling. The flame threw light in a broad circle but left her work area in shadow.
After studying the area, she decided to move the desk under the rear window and place the sofa against the wall. She rose and shoved against its horsehair-upholstered back. The ball feet screeched across the floorboards as the couch traveled to the center of the room. Leaving it there, she pushed up her sleeves and steered the desk toward the window.
The door to Dr. Stewart’s office flew open. “What are you doing?” His eyes widened when he saw the disarray in the waiting area.
She gestured toward the window. “If I’m to work with figures, that light is far better.”
“Miss Saxon . . .” He shook his head. “You haven’t been here for half an hour, and you’re assuming control. I wanted you against the side wall so you could greet patients when they entered.”
“This is a small room. No one is going to sneak past me.” She hoped her amusement wasn’t noticeable.
Apparently she didn’t succeed, because he shot a sharp glance in her direction. “Anything else you want changed while I’m here?” His voice carried an edge of sarcasm.
“No.”
In moments the doctor had moved the sofa from the room’s center to the wall opposite his door. After arranging her desk under the window, he gave a mock bow. “I trust this is to your liking. Now if you’ll excuse me, I do have more important things to attend to.”
Her hospital training rescued her. “Thank you, Doctor,” she said, keeping her tone respectful.
“You’re welcome.” A glint of humor flashed in his eyes before he turned away.
On Thursday, near the end of Rosemary’s first week as Dr. Stewart’s nurse, the entry door opened and a middle-aged man entered the reception area, holding his right arm close to his body. His hand was bound in cloth strips.
She jumped from her chair and hurried toward him. “My goodness. What happened?”
“Burned myself. You ain’t the doc, are you?”
“No. I’m his nurse.” A sense of pride swept through her as she said the words. She was a nurse, and a good one. Her service during the war had proven the fact. “Please have a seat. Dr. Stewart will be with you in a moment.” She tapped on the door to his office before returning to her desk.
He chuckled. “Figured you was too pretty to be named Elijah.”
“I’m Miss Saxon.” She opened the receipt book to a new page. “May I have your name?”
“Eldridge. We’re new here.” He raised his bandaged hand. “I was trying to burn some brush behind the house. Shouldn’t of threw kerosene on it.”
“If you can find comfrey growing around, make a poultice of the root for your burn. It will help with healing.”
Dr. Stewart stood in the doorway of the examination room. He fixed her with a stern gaze. “If you’re quite through dispensing medical advice, I’ll see the patient now.”
Mr. Eldridge rose. “She wasn’t doing no harm, Doc. My granny used comfrey. Worked good.” He preceded the doctor into the room.
Toward the end of the afternoon, Rosemary tidied her desk and prepared to leave. If she hurried, she’d have time to stop at West & Riley’s for a few groceries before dark. She suppressed a groan when the exterior door opened. A young woman stood silhouetted on the threshold.
As soon as the caller stepped inside, Rosemary recognized her. “Cassie Haddon. It’s been weeks.” Rosemary hurried across the room and seized Cassie’s hands.
“I’m so glad I found you. I went to the mercantile and Faith said you were employed here.” Her gaze took in Rosemary’s plain dress and severe hairstyle. “As a nurse?” Her voice spiked higher.
“Yes. Whenever possible. Most of the time I’m a clerk.” She tried to keep from sounding offended at her friend’s incredulous
tone. “Please sit and tell me what brings you all the way across town.”
“Mother sent me on an errand.” She twisted her hands together. “I don’t have much time. My stepfather will expect me at the mercantile by half past five. I don’t dare keep him waiting.” Her green eyes misted, reflecting the color of the emerald ribbons on her bonnet. “Mother needs more of that tonic you prepared for her. Living with Mr. Bingham is . . . difficult.”
“I can have some ready for you tomorrow.”
Cassie shook her head. “At best, it will be next week before I can ask to come to town again.”
“Then I’ll bring it with me on Monday.” She patted her friend’s hand. “Suggest to your mother that she take long walks. Fresh air—”
“Are you treating my patients again, Miss Saxon?” The doctor stepped into the reception area.
Rosemary jumped to her feet. “Miss Haddon is a friend of mine, Doctor. This is a social call.” She sucked in her lower lip. He had the most irritating habit of popping out of his office at awkward moments.
Ignoring her, he nodded in Cassie’s direction. “Is your mother in need of medical attention? If necessary, I’ll pay a visit to your home.”
Cassie paled and scrambled for the door. “No. She’s fine.” She cast an anxious look at Rosemary. “I’ll be here Monday.” She whipped through the door in a whirl of green plaid taffeta.
Dr. Stewart stared after her, then ambled to the sofa and settled against the cushioned back. He waved a hand at Rosemary. “I need to get to know folks here. Sit a moment and tell me what that was all about.” In shirtsleeves, with his hair rumpled, he looked far less imposing than he had when she first called at his office.
“I met Miss Haddon and her mother last summer. They were passengers on a train that derailed. They stayed with me and my brother while the tracks were repaired.” She leaned forward in her chair, caught by the interest in his dark eyes. “After they returned to St. Louis, I thought I’d seen the last of them, but by a strange coincidence, this past July Miss Haddon’s mother married Elmer Bingham, a local farmer, so here they are again.”