by Judith Pella
“I suppose both are really necessary.” Joseph looked thoughtfully into his cup. “Eventually, the railroad would provide speed and be able to haul a great deal more in a shorter time than teams of oxen upon the trail.”
“Yes, but if I correctly understand the lay of the land, you own some of the very property that will be affected by the National Road expansion. Think of the hotels you could build and the services you could offer to the weary traveler. As far as sound investments go, this would turn you a solid profit as soon as the road and establishment went into place.”
“I don’t know. I suppose it is something to think on.”
“Well, for now, as your commission merchant, I am advising you to be cautious with your investments. I didn’t want to share bad news right away, especially given the holiday spirit and all, but things could be better.”
“Better? In what way?”
“There are problems with this country’s economic foundation that might well erupt over time to encompass the financial affairs of the average man. And while you are a man of means and prosperity, that could all change tomorrow.”
“It is truly as bad as all that?”
“I’m afraid so,” Hampton admitted. “As you know, last year’s cotton crop was destroyed by New York’s business district fire. Add to that, this year’s crops were bought at only marginally acceptable prices, and if it weren’t for the high percentage of English investors, we might not have seen a profit at all.”
Joseph shook his head. “Sometimes I’d like to walk away from everything.” He put his cup down and stared at the ceiling for a moment. “There are tremendous responsibilities with a family this size. Not to mention the obligations of the plantation system and the people here who are dependent upon us for their every need. Our northern brethren may curse slavery, but I ask you, where would these people go? How could they possibly care for themselves? Would northerners so generously take in and patiently support an uneducated man who only knows the skills of the field? No one stops to think on those things. Now with Mary gone and Margaret devastated by the loss, I want only to pull the rest of my family closer, and yet they all seem to be slipping away.”
Hampton realized the opportunity Joseph’s frank discussion had lent him, and he seized upon it. “What of your sons? Do they not plan to return to help with the plantation?”
Joseph’s expression was one of bittersweet reflection. “I don’t imagine they will. I was forced at an early age to assume the responsibilities of Oakbridge. I met the challenge and did as I knew I should, but in the course of events I lost a great deal that was important to me.”
“Such as?” Hampton questioned, unable to look at the wealth around him and imagine what was lacking.
“I lost my dreams. I’d always desired to go west and explore the country, but a man of responsibility cannot very well leave his wife and family to fend for themselves.” Joseph paused and smiled rather apologetically. “That’s behind me now, but the reason I brought it up has more to do with your question than you might imagine. I won’t force my sons to take on the duties of plantation owner when their hearts clearly lie elsewhere.”
The conversation was taking on new and exciting possibilities for Hampton. Always before, he’d presumed that his advance to fortune and fame would end when Joseph died. He had believed it necessary to lay in store for himself a great treasure of wealth and the security of a socially acceptable bride. Marrying one of the Adams girls would not only assure his place in proper company, but might offer him a means of expanding his meager holdings as well.
Finally he asked Joseph, “Who will follow then after you are gone?”
“That’s a good question. With Maine completely devoted to the work of God, and York ensconced quite happily in the political arena, it will most likely fall into the hands of one of my daughters and her spouse.”
Hampton smiled. “I know this may sound quite bold, but given my interest in Carolina and my knowledge of your financial affairs, I wonder if you might not consider me as a possible solution. I feel confident that it will only be a matter of time until I propose marriage to Carolina.”
“What!” Joseph exclaimed. “Has it grown as serious as all that?”
Hampton tried to appear humble and boyish. “I don’t know how else to say this but to come right out with it. I’ve fallen in love with your daughter, and I hope very much for her to become my wife.”
Joseph was stunned and his expression changed from one of surprise to disbelief. “But Carolina seems anything but interested.”
“Yes, I know,” Hampton replied. “I have to tell you something, and perhaps you will have nothing further to do with me after this, but confession is good for the soul.”
Joseph eyed him suspiciously. “Then, by all means, confess.”
Hampton smiled. “When I escorted Carolina to the Christmas ball, she and I, well that is to say, we shared a moment of intimacy.” Hampton fought hard to keep from showing even a portion of arrogance. “I kissed her, sir, and I do apologize for my boldness.”
A slight smile crept over Joseph’s face. “I see. And what might I ask was my daughter’s response?”
Hampton took Joseph’s smile as an indication of acceptance and grinned. “She didn’t refuse it, if that’s what you’re wondering. In fact, she was the one to suggest the seclusion of the summer porch. She’s very determined when she sets her mind to something.”
Joseph laughed out loud at this. “That she is. But I have to say that I’m surprised. She has adamantly refused to consider my suggestions that she accept your courtship. I don’t tell you this to cause you grief, but only to offer you my insight on the matter.”
Hampton nodded. “I, too, must share an insight that might well clarify the entire situation for you. Carolina admitted her interest in me. We talked all the way home from the party, and she said that her family was most important to her, but that you held her heart above all others.” In fact, that ride home had passed in all but total silence. Nevertheless, Hampton continued. “You see, Carolina knows that it would grieve you to lose another family member just yet. She told me that with Maryland’s death and her mother’s sorrow over the loss, she couldn’t possibly consider marriage.”
“She said that?” Joseph seemed genuinely puzzled.
“That and so much more. I would like to say that she declared her love for me,” Hampton said in a tone of false humility, “but she would not speak on the matter, especially with her slave occupying the same coach. Her eyes suggested to me, however, that she would do so in a minute, were her family obligations not so strong.”
“I had no idea.” Joseph got up and paced the Persian carpet in front of the fireplace.
“That is why I made the suggestion I did. Perhaps if Carolina knew that her husband would assume responsibility of Oakbridge and that she wouldn’t be taken away from those she loved, she would open her heart to me and agree to marriage.”
Joseph stopped pacing and looked Hampton in the eye. “The idea is not without appeal to me, Hampton. You’ve served my family well and have been a worthy adviser. I will take this matter under consideration, on that you may be certain.”
Hampton got to his feet and reached out to shake Joseph’s hand. “You won’t be sorry, sir. Carolina is a wonderful young woman, and I know that your decision might well make all the difference in the world.” Pulling out his watch fob, Hampton grimaced. “I must hurry now, or I’ll never make the train to Baltimore.”
“I’ll look forward to your return,” Joseph said in a thoughtful tone that suggested his mind was already considering Hampton’s suggestion.
Smiling to himself, Hampton bid Joseph good-bye. Too bad Carolina was conspicuously absent. It was of no matter, he reasoned. Soon, if things went his way, she’d be answering to him for every detail of her life. Even the gray, snow-laden skies couldn’t discourage him as he bounded into the Adams’ carriage. The trap was laid. Now it was only a matter of time until the bait was take
n.
8
Deciding the Future
Carolina sat beside Penny, faithfully rereading her favorite Bible story. Joseph and the coat of many colors fascinated Penny, and Carolina didn’t mind one bit the fact that she’d already read the story three times that week.
“Miz Carolina?” Miriam peeked her head through the open door. “Yo papa says to come quicklike to the li’bry.”
Carolina nodded and handed Penny the Bible. “You can read on for yourself. I’ll be back as soon as I can.” She tousled the sandy brown curls on Penny’s head, then planted a kiss on her little sister’s forehead. The frail girl beamed up a smile and yawned.
“I wanna rest just a little,” she said in tones that seemed so old for a child. Not mature, but rather aged and brittle.
Carolina nodded, sadly realizing her sister’s condition might never improve. Penny’s heart was not even strong enough to allow limited moments of play, and Carolina noted that she slept more and more often of late.
Straightening her back and stretching, Carolina put the gloomy thoughts to the back of her mind. There were so many sad things in her home these days. It seemed better to take them out to examine one at a time. To deal with everything at once was simply too much to expect of any one person.
Sweeping away the wrinkles in her green calico gown, Carolina made her way to the library, wondering all the while what might be wrong.
“Papa?” she called out and knocked lightly upon the open door.
“Come in, Carolina,” Joseph said, getting to his feet.
Carolina noted that Leland Baldwin occupied the chair nearest her father’s desk, and that he, too, was struggling to stand. She held her breath, not quite sure what Leland’s presence in the house might mean. Had James come, too?
She curtsied lightly and felt her chest tighten. “Mr. Baldwin.” She glanced around the room nervously, assuring herself that James had not come.
Joseph kissed her lightly on the forehead, then offered her his cheek. Carolina readily kissed her father and took the chair beside Leland’s. The last person she’d expected to see today was James’ father. But here he was, and there was no escaping the conversation that would ensue.
“Mr. Baldwin and I have been discussing the Potomac and Great Falls Railroad,” Joseph began. “There was some concern that we might wish to put an end to our venture, given the fact that James is no longer available to assist us.”
Carolina fought to steady her nerves. This was her opportunity to find out where James had gone. “Where has he gone off to?” she asked, trying to sound casual.
Leland grew red in the face. “I’m not entirely certain. I believe the railroad has led him west.”
Carolina looked at her father. “Does this keep us from advancing our cause?”
“Not necessarily. Leland was just showing me the new railroad stock certificates he had printed prior to Mary’s death.” Joseph handed her one of the certificates and smiled. “As you can see, they are most impressive.”
“Yes,” Carolina remarked, looking over the details of the intricately etched border. The words Potomac and Great Falls Railroad graced the top. “It’s wonderful.” She was amazed at the feeling of satisfaction it gave her to actually hold a visible part of their dreams.
“You can see for yourself that your name is listed as a board member and officer,” Joseph pointed out.
Carolina found the words Carolina Adams, Secretary, Board of Directors situated directly under the name James Baldwin, Vice-President, Board of Directors. She felt her breath catch in her throat. To see them joined there on paper made her feel flushed and almost giddy. It was a sensation she’d not expected.
“How marvelous,” she murmured and handed the certificate back to her father.
“Mr. Baldwin assures me the certificates will promote the sales of stock. People will see the quality, as well as the Baldwin and Adams names, and realize that this is a trustworthy investment.”
“I was uncertain . . . well, that is to say . . .” Leland paused uncomfortably. Joseph and Carolina both looked at him in anticipation of his words. “Given the recent events between my son and your daughter Virginia, I was uncertain if you wished to continue with James as a partner. After all, I cannot vouch for when he will return to Washington.”
Joseph nodded solemnly, but it was Carolina who spoke. “It is hardly James’ fault that Virginia broke the engagement. Why should he be punished for something out of his control?”
She saw her father exchange a wary glance with Leland. It was almost as though the two men were sizing up what the other thought of her statement. She continued, only mildly confused by their reaction. “I say let James stay on, and when he returns to Washington, he can resume an active role. No doubt he’s working hard with the B&O and learning much that will benefit us in the long run.”
“I’m sure you are right,” Joseph replied and nodded to Leland. “We shall keep him as a partner, but I suggest we move him from the active role of vice-president and allow his father to fill that position.”
“I have no objections to that,” she replied. “Just so long as James knows he is welcome to continue with us on this project.”
“But of course,” Joseph replied.
Carolina smiled at her father and noted that Leland seemed to relax a great deal. She tried to imagine what James’ reaction would be to such a discussion, but she found her mind blurred with images of James’ face and Hampton’s kiss.
“Mr. Baldwin has also had some encouraging news from the Virginia legislature,” Joseph continued. “They are considering a positive response to our request for a charter, but there are conditions that Leland and I find quite unacceptable.”
“Such as?” Carolina asked seriously. She forced herself to put aside her childish memories and concentrate on the business at hand. At sixteen, she knew full well it was a privilege to be included in such a matter.
Leland pulled a letter from his satchel and handed it over to Joseph. “They want twenty-five percent of the profits, with unlimited right-of-ways, and in fifty years the railroad would become state property.”
“That’s robbery!” Carolina declared indignantly. “Maryland and the city of Baltimore combined receive far less than twenty-five percent of the profits from the B&O Railroad. And they certainly never demanded ownership. You can’t let them get away with this, Father.”
Joseph smiled at her. “I knew you’d feel quite passionately about it. Especially given the fact that while in fifty years I will be dead and gone, you’ll be a feisty old woman of sixty-six.”
“It isn’t only that,” she declared. “This railroad should be something that generations of Adamses”—she paused and looked at Leland’s perspiring face—“and Baldwins can participate in with pride.”
“I quite agree with my daughter, Baldwin.”
“I must say, Carolina, your grasp of the working railroad is quite amazing to me. I thought it less than wise to allow you on as an active partner,” Leland admitted, “but you are proving yourself to be well-read on the matter and highly opinionated.”
Joseph laughed at this. “Of that you may be assured, my good man.”
Carolina smiled but still felt an odd sense of rejection by James’ father. Perhaps he was just preoccupied with his own interests, or maybe he was still unable to feel comfortable discussing such lofty matters with a mere girl. Either way, she didn’t care. It didn’t have to concern her; unless, of course, it altered her own plans and dreams.
Leland rested uncomfortably in the carriage. His gout was bothering him fiercely, but so, too, was his conscience. He could deal with swindling a world of strangers, but Joseph Adams had been a good friend for a great many years. When he showed him the railroad certificates, Leland had known the response would be one of extreme enthusiasm. What he hadn’t expected was Carolina’s educated participation in their discussion.
For Leland, the matter was simple. So simple, in fact, he had worried that James’ dep
arture from Washington would forever alter his own plans. He could tell from Carolina’s words that she didn’t know the truth of James and Virginia’s broken engagement. But Joseph did. Leland could see it in his expression and read the unspoken questions in his old friend’s eyes.
Apparently Virginia must have quietly shared James’ unforgivably bad manners with her father. Leland cursed and threw his satchel to the opposite side of the carriage. James had ruined his plans for financial security. If only James had married Virginia, Joseph would never think twice at offering any monetary assistance needed. Plus, there would have been a hefty dowry offered, one that Leland had instructed his son to take in cash rather than land.
The twinge of pain in his chest seemed to match the one in his foot. His doctor would no doubt offer him little remedy except to advise him to take to his bed and wait out the worst of it. Most likely it was nothing more than indigestion from thinking about James. Breathing deeply he tried to steady his nerves and dismiss all thoughts of his son. The boy had no idea what trouble he’d really caused in following his heart instead of his father’s direction. However, despite the congenial reception he had received at Oak-bridge, Leland still worried consequences might be forthcoming in the future. Leland would have to work hard to promote healing between the two families.
There was simply too much at stake to find himself on the bad side of Joseph Adams. He was weaning himself rather rapidly away from the banking industry, knowing without a doubt that his days in that field were numbered. His bank was failing miserably, and it was only a matter of time until someone started a run on coins versus paper bank notes and the bank would fold altogether. And why? Because there simply wasn’t enough capital to back the bank drafts.