by Lana Mowdy
Chapter 17
In just a few weeks, Wade’s bags were packed and he was heading for Atlanta for the Cotton Expo. He was not sure what he would find there, but he felt a pull towards such an exciting event. He had written to Uncle Ashley to make arrangements for his stay, and Uncle Ashley had replied quickly, happy to have Wade visit. By the time he arrived in Atlanta, he could feel electricity in the air as crowds of people gathered at the train station to welcome friends from across the state, and talk of the exposition filled the air. Everyone knew it would be the event of the century, and speculations of its contents heightened the excitement.
Uncle Ashley and Beau met him at the station and they made their way slowly back to their home though the hoards of people lining the streets and filling every hotel in the city. When they finally reached their destination, Ashley unlocked the door, and held it open for Wade, inviting him inside. Wade walked inside and almost fell to his knees. The memory of Aunt Melly filled the air, and his heart suddenly ached for her, longing for her soft arms around him, comforting him. He had not noticed her presence so clearly before, and he fought the urge to run from the house, from his memories holding him paralyzed in agony. Aunt Melly had always been kind hearted and gentle. She would know how to mend his broken heart and refocus his attention on the important issues in his life. He felt stranded and alone, drowning in sorrow, lost in a sea of helpless torment with no lighthouse to guide the way.
He quickly excused himself to the guest room, for he was exhausted, and he wanted to escape before his hosts noticed the tears rolling down his face. When he reached his room, he laid on the bed, breathing in the aroma of Aunt Melly that swam around him. He realized that he had forgotten most of her teachings, for it was Aunt Melly that impressed upon him the necessity for honesty, chivalry, and dependability. Shame washed over him, as he remembered his reaction to Emily’s disloyalty, and he longed for someone to ease his suffering. He was lonely, as he had been lonely for so long, but it was if he was realizing it for the first time.
He leapt from the bed, and plunged himself on his knees, sobbing uncontrollably. He wept for his lost love and all of the loved ones he lost in the past. He wept for the relationship with his mother that he would never know or understand, and the land at Tara that he longed to feel again. Finally, he wept for his lack of spiritual devotion, and his shameful departure from Aunt Melly’s and Suellen’s teaching, for it had been ages since he had reached out in prayer, and he knew that his lack of faith had created the hole that was left in his heart. When he finally arose from his bedside, a renewed sense of faith formed itself in his mind, and he felt refreshed. It seemed as if Aunt Melly had pulled him to this place and knelt beside him, holding him, reassuring him, and giving him strength to face the coming days. As he slept that night, he dreamt of his great grandmother Robillard, holding him closely, protecting him from the insurgence of Yankee forces, and he woke to find his face wet with tears.
The next morning he woke to find a crisp, cool morning. Ashley and Beau had risen early, cooked breakfast, and were waiting on him to arise and join them. They were quite excited to be attending the expo in Ogelthorpe Park, and they were making plans to see each exhibit. Wade listened to their chatter, excited to be part of such a memorable event, and glad to see the two men talking and laughing.
Beau had grown considerably since their last visit. He had risen several inches, and his shoulders were broad. He looked like his father with light auburn hair and prominent features, but his eyes resembled the soft brown eyes of his mother’s. He would be attending the university next fall, and they had discussed his plan of study. He would follow in the steps of his uncles and great uncles, attending the college of law with Wade. Now, the two men talked as equals, mild mannered, like minded individuals, with common interests and similar manners, and Wade envied their relationship. Though Beau had lost his mother at an early age, his father courageously took on the responsibility of raising his son, minding his oaths to Melanie. He could be proud, for Beau had become a fine young man.
They left early, hoping to beat the crowd that was expected, but when they arrived at the park, they realized that other people had the same idea. Vast crowds of people made their way to the complex. The three had planned on beginning in the middle building which was a running cotton factory, but they could not push their way through, so they decided to start in one of the offshoots. The complex had been constructed in the shape of a cross, with each of the four wings holding exhibits consisting of agriculture, transportation, minerals, and the lumber industry. They had intended to spend one full day at the expo, but found that by the time they had made it half-way through, it was late. They stopped and ate at the restaurant, then made their way home, excited to see the remaining exhibits on the next day.
They arrived even earlier the next day, but found that the crowds had only increased, so they settled back to expect long lines, and crowded spaces, determined to enjoy the experience. As they reached the long line of carriage models, Wade studied each model, considering the pros and cons of each. He had taken an interest in the carriage system of Atlanta wondered why Athens had not invested in public transportation before. With the railroad, shops, and the university, a transportation system had become a necessity, and could possibly be lucrative, considering the suburban population of passengers that a carriage system would serve. Deep in thought, he stared at the models, planning his proposal to Mr. Johnson, when suddenly, his thoughts were interrupted. Behind him, he heard a voice he had not heard in two years, but it was immediately recognizable, and he wished desperately to hide.
“Why, Mr. Hamilton! How nice it is to see you!” Alice’s high-pitched voice hinted of deep sarcasm, dripping with false niceties.
Wade faced her fearfully and saw that she was standing directly behind him, and behind her were her two aunts, drably dressed, and obviously disapproving of such an affair. “Alice, I never expected to see you here.” Wade turned his mouth in a slight smile, but his eyes revealed his true feelings.
“We heard about this expo from your mother, and we decided we could not miss it. Did your mother mention me? We met a few days ago. I suppose you know that she is in Savannah and doing very well.” Spite and anger flared in her eyes, and Wade hunted for an escape route. She had not forgotten his false proposal to her in Texas, and she was still very angry, apparently. He silently wondered what she had planned and what his mother planned. Together, they could make a destructive team.
“I have not spoken with Mother since I left Tara, but I am glad to hear that she is doing well. It seems as if my uncle is continuing to the next exhibit. It was very nice seeing you again, Alice,” Wade tipped his hat, and turned swiftly to follow Uncle Ashley, but felt her hand on his arm, gripping tightly.
Her hot breath whispered in his ear, “You cad. Don’t think you can escape from me so easily like you did in Texas. You will finish this conversation or so help me, I will announce to the entire coliseum of your indiscretions.” He could feel her hand trembling, and the viperous tone in her voice, and he knew she meant every word she said.
He took her hand gently and tucked it in the curve of his arm, leading her to the restaurant. They took a small table in the corner with her aunts a few feet away at another table. More than anything, he wished he could get away from her, but he was afraid of the scene she would create.
Alice reached for his hand and held it tightly across the table. “Why didn’t you come back?”
Wade suddenly felt sorry, seeing his actions from her point of view. She must have been very disappointed. “I told you that my heart was devoted to another.” He pulled his hand away and looked at the menu. “You left me no other choice.”
Alice looked at the menu then set it down forcefully, baiting him, “Your mother told me about Emily. She left you for another.” She raised her eyebrows questioningly. “I suppose her devotion was not quite as strong as yours.”
Wade refused to acknowledge her hateful words,
continuing to study his menu. When the waiter finally returned, he ordered a sandwich, hoping to hurry this ordeal so he could flee.
When they were alone again, she continued, “You made a proposal to me, and I expect you to fulfill your end of the bargain.”
Wade turned his glass around, looking through the ice floating in the water. He asked, “Why would you need me to uphold the proposal when you have exactly what you wanted? You are back in Georgia, which is the only reason you tried to blackmail me.”
Alice’s face turned red, “I am only here to visit, hoping to redeem my name. Do you know how I suffered when you did not return?”
“Not really. Surely you did not believe that proposal was genuine. You coerced it from me.” Wade avoided her face, twisting with anger.
She tried desperately to maintain her composure. She removed her gloves, slowly and placed them beside her then raised her eyes and fluttered her lids seductively. “Wade, darling, let us put the past behind us. Let’s pretend that you immediately returned from the cattle drive, and let’s begin planning our wedding.” She smiled as if she were perfectly pleased with her plan. She reached across the table again, pulling his hand toward her, but he resisted.
“Why do you want to marry someone who doesn’t want you?” Wade bit his tongue, knowing his words cut her deeply.
She stared at him across the table with her mouth agape looking as though he had slapped her with his words then just as quickly, serenity draped over her, and one corner of her mouth tilted up, knowing that yet again, she had the upper hand. “You want me. I can assure you of that.” She paused, as their food was delivered. She smiled gently as though they were having the most pleasant conversation then continued, “If not me, you want what I have to offer. My father has bequeathed a rather large plot of Georgian land to me, and upon our betrothal, it will be given to you as a wedding gift. It runs to the south of your beloved Tara, so you can own more land in Clayton County than anyone else. Further, with your knowledge of law and enterprising mind, you could set up quite a sharecropping venture. I’ve heard it is quite profitable.”
“And what do you gain from this?” Wade sneered at her, compelled once again to run from the restaurant.
Alice fluttered her eyes innocently, “Just a few things, really. First, my father will only allow me to remain in Georgia if I am in the company of my husband. Furthermore, I will regain my honor. While you were gone, I told my father about your proposal, and when you didn’t return, he saw my heartbreak because of your rejection. Finally, I have always thought that we would make a magnificent pair, and your mother thinks so too.”
Wade ate slowly, deliberately swallowing each bite. Setting his fork down, he shifted in his seat, looking directly at her. “Alice, hear me clearly. I do not want to marry you. No matter what your offer, nothing is worth the torment of surviving your temper, your scheming, or your backstabbing plots. I want nothing more to do with you.”
She smiled at him, as though she heard not a word, and replied sweetly, “Oh, you will. No matter where you go or try to hide, I will be there. You will see my softer side and maybe even fall in love. No matter, for eventually, you will see my point of view, and we will be wed in a perfect ceremony.”
Wade rose from the table, throwing his napkin in his chair. He strode out of the restaurant, ignoring her giggling behind him. He would never relent.
He was able to find Uncle Ashley and Beau after looking through three buildings, and they were quite surprised to see him after he had disappeared so suddenly. He was able to explain his absence easily, and they finished the tour uneventfully. They walked through each exhibition, enjoying the displays of cotton from around the world, and the variety of crops grown in Georgia. The inventions were enthralling, and it was exciting to see so many changes within the various industries represented. By the time they had finished, Wade was convinced that the Atlanta Cotton Expo had lived up to his expectations and he was sure that the men of Athens would concur.
After a few more days, he returned to Athens. He was sorry to leave them, but he was relieved to be away from the house that reminded him so much of Aunt Melly. Although he reached a spiritual pivot during the first night there, he remained haunted by her memory, and his heart ached for her presence. As he turned each corner, he expected to see her standing there with her arms outstretched, inviting him, but each time new realization set in that he would never see her again or feel her arms around him, and he began to hurt again. He knew it was time to leave, and he appreciated his small apartment in Athens, for there were no memories there to disturb him.
As soon as he returned, he began working on his business plan to present to Mr. Johnson. He had become inspired to begin a carriage system in Athens, and he knew that if his business plan was solid, he would be able to convince Mr. Johnson to invest in his venture. He wrote down complete details of the cost analysis, the market he would reach, and the breakdown of the company. He described the carriages, their numbers, and the horses needed to power each one. The carriage system would enable people from rural areas to come to town more often, which would also affect the local businesses. As the city grew, the system would grow and become even more necessary. He knew he had a bright idea and a firm plan.
Wade decided to present the plan to Mr. Johnson as soon as it was complete. He straightened his back, lifted his chin, and marched into Mr. Johnson’s office and handed him the proposal. Mr. Johnson looked slightly surprised, but sat down and read through it carefully, nodded occasionally, considering it in its entirety. When he had finished, he laid the papers on his desk, clasped his hands under his chin, and looked at Wade, unspeaking.
After an endless time, he gathered his thoughts and began to speak. “Wade, I see that you have a good head for business. I am impressed with your idea, thoughts, and your plan. However, there is a problem. Groups of gentlemen have been discussing this idea, and I have invested with their company. They will be implementing the plan within the next few weeks. In fact, they went to Atlanta to see the different types of carriages so they could settle on the type they will be using. I’m sorry.”
Wade nodded, understanding, and replied, “Thank you for your time.” He rose to leave.
Mr. Johnson stopped him, “Please sit down, Wade. I have something else to discuss with you. I have considered your request for advancement, and I have an idea that I thought you might consider.” He waited for Wade’s response, but his disappointment was so great that he was not sure how to respond, and he refocused on the conversation. “The party the other night did not go as I planned. You met Louise, my oldest daughter,” Mr. Johnson eyed him questioningly.
“Yes, sir, she is a lovely girl.” Wade responded half-heartedly, wondering what was being implied.
“Louise has come of marrying age with no prospects. She is a shy girl with silly notions of books and school, unable to catch the eye of any man worthy of her.” He paused for a moment, considering the best way to voice his notion. “I believe that you, Wade, are worthy of her. She is a kind-hearted girl, and she would make any man very happy… and very wealthy.”
Wade took a deep breath. His mind was suddenly racing. What was this man asking of him? To marry a woman he did not know, only for the sake of a fortune? “I’m not quite sure I follow you, sir.”
Mr. Johnson swallowed then spoke frankly. “Wade, I am looking for a man that can run the bank after I have passed on. I intend to leave my position to my daughter’s husband, for I have no sons and a woman could never run a business. If you were to marry Louise, you would be my protégé, and after I am gone, the bank would be in your hands.”
Wade stared at him, his eyes wide with amazement at such an offer, mixed with such a request. He was speechless.
“You don’t have to answer now. Think on it, spend some more time with her, and we will talk later. Why don’t you come by for dinner tonight? We will expect you around seven.” He lowered his head, as if he was finished with the discussion, and he moti
oned Wade to the door, with no reply.
Wade exited then stood outside the door, mouth agape, wondering what he had done to deserve such a forceful appeal and a lucrative offer in the same discussion. He looked around the hall at the doors of the other offices, imagining that one of those offices might be his, and the idea intrigued him. He would have a large cherry desk covered with paperwork, walls lined with trinkets and pictures of his wife and children, and a large picture window overlooking the city of Athens. The only hindrance to this vision was the picture of Louise rather than Emily.
He walked down the long hallway and down the stairs to his small desk in the foyer of the bank, lost in thought so that he did not see the customers coming in to the bank. He sat down and picked up his pen, dipped it into the ink well and began working without looking up when he suddenly heard a voice.
“Good morning, Mr. Hamilton.” A brilliant smile surrounded by flowing auburn hair stood above him.
His stomach flipped as recognition hit his mind like a thunderbolt. “How can I help you, ma’am?”
“Why, Wade, I told you I would see you again. No matter where you go, I will follow you. Surely you aren’t surprised.” Alice’s green eyes flitted innocently. “Since I will be spending an uncertain amount of time in Athens, I thought I should open an account with you.”
Wade acted as though he did not know her, filling out the paperwork, asking questions. He had considered leading her to another banker, but decided against it. He certainly did not want anyone else to know about her or her plans. He avoided conversation, keeping his eyes lowered, avoiding her glances, and making the transactions quickly. “Thank you for your business. I hope you enjoy your stay in Athens.” He shook her hand formally, leading her to the front door.
She pulled her hand and elbow away forcefully, threatening to make a scene, “My stay will be successful when you and I are wed.” She spit the words at him quietly. “You will see me again.” She flounced her skirts out the door without looking back, and Wade sighed a deep breath of relief, alleviated that she said no more.
At that instant, it occurred to him that the only way to circumvent Alice would be matrimony to another. If he did marry Louise, he could further elude Alice, and she could not pursue him further. Throughout the rest of the day, he considered alternative routes of action, and it seemed that no matter which road he took, risks were evident and the positive consequences were few. He had to make a decision, somehow.
Rain pelted him that evening as he rang the bell at the Johnson residence and stood waiting, shifting his weight on either foot and wiggling his fingers with anticipation. He anticipated that the rain would soon turn to snow, for the temperature was dropping quickly, and thick white clouds flooded the sky. The doors opened and the doorman escorted him to the library where Mr. Johnson was waiting for dinner. As they walked to the dining room, the rest of the family met them and greeted him warmly. Wade gazed at Louise with eyes of a potential husband, and saw a different girl than he had seen before. She was lovely.
She seemed to float along the dining room floor like an angel in her fawn dress, fitted to show her form with long folds reaching the floor. Dainty slippers showed from beneath the billowing yards of rich velvet. Her long dark hair was pulled from her face with a mother of pearl clip, and soft curls ran down the length of her back, flowing into the train of her gown trailing behind her. As she greeted Wade, a deep blush ran across her cheeks, and she lowered her eyes demurely, enchanting him. She was seated beside him during dinner, and he was aware that her demeanor had not changed from the night of the party, for she responded to conversation as if the room was full of guests, and her discomfort was obvious.
After dinner, they retreated to the library alone, and Wade wandered around the room, enthralled by the collection of books. Trails of ladders were required to reach the heights of the shelves which were laden with books from the floor to the ceiling. In the middle of the room, tall leather chairs encircled a long mahogany table with lion claw feet where a silver set rested, holding refreshments. Louise immediately poured him a cup of coffee and served him as he walked around, studying titles, awed by the enormous compilation.
“It is overwhelming, is it not?” Louise stood beside him, smiling around her. “This is my favorite room.”
“How would you ever read all of these books?” Wade’s eyes noted his anticipation.
“I have never tried. I peruse the titles until something strikes as seemingly interesting.” Louise poured her own cup of tea then walked to a chair, large enough to engulf her.
Wade followed, sitting across from her. Trepidations of their last meeting slowed his speech, for he was uncertain of how to approach such a lady. “I hope that our last meeting will not taint our future acquaintance, for I hope to learn more of you.” Wade blushed, hoping he had not offended her further by his forthright manner.
Yet, there was no change in her expression, and she eyed him with interest. She had never met such a handsome young man who interested her in the slightest, for no other had any concern with books and reading. “I was hoping you would share my sentiment. Although I must admit I was slightly taken aback by your willingness to share such an honest opinion of women, I am delighted to know that we share a common interest.” She smiled at him modestly.
Wade felt suddenly comfortable in her presence, as though he knew her intimately, but reservedly as if she was made of precious china, and he was unwilling to taint her with his touch. Her voice was gentle and reassuring, and her emotions were restrained. She seemed to study him as he spoke, listening to every word, watching his gestures, and heeding the intonation of his voice. Her manner seemed almost illusory as she spoke with him, without flirtatious chatter or schematic planning, but with a genuine nature beyond comprehension.
As he walked home that evening, he knew that he could never love as he had loved before, but he could adore her, protect her, and enjoy her presence, fulfilling marriage vows honestly and without regret. The rain had changed to soft falling snow, landing on the ground, covering it like a sparkling white blanket. Wade pulled his woolen coat closer around him and stuffed his hands deep into his pockets. He could hear the crunch under his feet, turning around seeing the footsteps he left on the city of Athens.
His visits to the Johnson’s house became more frequent so that he was dining three times a week with the family and spending the evenings with Louise. Their conversation never dulled, and he was thrilled to find that she enjoyed a variety of topics including politics, philosophy, and religion. He had never been able to discuss these topics with another human outside the realm of school, and he appreciated her open opinion on each subject. She challenged him to rethink his values and his opinions that he had always considered to be solid. She disputed his philosophical musings, engaging him in creative discussions that left him reeling with excitement long after he left her presence. She was well-read in all subjects, and she often baited him into fallacious outbursts only to have him examine his motives with deep theoretical questions, making him deliberate every side of an issue.
One evening after discussing the ability of humankind to engage in an act based on purely unselfish motives, he took her hand, noticing her long, thin fingers. He looked into her eyes so like his own and whispered, “May I ask your father for your hand in marriage?”
She ducked her head with embarrassment then replied in her soft voice, “Of course you can.” Her eyes flashed with excitement for just a moment, and she lured him into further conversation of motives, not wishing to prolong her discomfort in speaking of personal matters, and he obliged, enjoying her company.
He went directly to her father’s office the next morning, expecting Mr. Johnson’s blessing, however, when he opened his office door, he stumbled backwards. Sitting in a chair, across from Mr. Johnson sat Alice, bearing her most devilish smile. She looked quite seductive in her scarlet red dress, revealing her lily-white bosom, draped with a shawl hoping to present an air of modesty.<
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Mr. Johnson stood; crimson faced, and extended his hand toward Wade to direct him to sit beside the evil woman. “Have you met Miss Kellecee?”
“No, sir, I don’t believe I have,” he answered, tipping his head in greeting.
“Oh. You are so forgetful, Mr. Hamilton! Don’t you remember me from Texas? You did propose marriage.” She sneered hatefully, yet covered her hatred with a crooked smile.
“You must be thinking of someone else, ma’am, for I have never been to Texas.” Wade responded quickly. His stomach churned as the lie settled, turning acidic. He knew his future lie in this meeting, and he would never forfeit his gains for the ruthless monster which stood before him.
Mr. Johnson spoke up, “How did she know your name, Wade?”
“I would imagine from my nameplate on my desk in the foyer. I assure you, Mr. Johnson, that I have never seen this woman before in my life.” Wade glanced at Mr. Johnson, searching for signs of belief.
Mr. Johnson sighed heavily, unsure of how to proceed.
Wade continued, “Miss Kellecee, have you been to Savannah lately? I have heard of the outbreak of yellow fever.”
“I have, but I have not been in contact with the disease, and if you are implying sir that my accusations are delusional, I am highly offended.” Alice cocked her head to the side, daring Wade to continue.
Wade turned to face Mr. Johnson, raising an eyebrow then returned his attention to Alice. “I would never imply such offense. Please forgive me, but I have work to attend to. I hope to meet you again, Miss Kellecee. Hopefully next time it will be under less stressful circumstances.”
Mr. Johnson spoke quickly, “Mr. Hamilton, did you need to speak with me?”
“Yes, sir, but it can wait. It is of a personal matter.”
Mr. Johnson nodded briefly then addressed Alice, “I apologize for my lack of time, Miss, but I must attend to Mr. Hamilton’s needs immediately. Perhaps we can continue this conversation at a later date? I will have my associate see you to the door.” Mr. Johnson kissed her hand politely then showed her the door, and although Wade expected a protest, Alice was stunned by the sudden change in events and in Mr. Johnson’s demeanor so that she was left speechless. She left the building without retaliation.
Mr. Johnson turned to Wade, eyes blazing. His silver hair glistened against his angry face, quivering slightly. “I am not sure of that woman’s intentions or of your innocence. It is of no consequence to me, for she is of no concern. However, Louise will hear nothing of this, nor will she pay for your past sins.”
“You have my word.”
“Now, you have something you want to discuss?” Mr. Johnson’s face relaxed, returning to its normally pallid color.
Wade inhaled deeply, regaining his courage. “Yes sir, I would like to ask for Louise’s hand in marriage.” Wade stood proudly, his chin held high, expecting rebuke after such a scene with Alice, but Mr. Johnson smiled broadly.
“I am honored to have you for a son-in-law.” He fumbled in his desk, searching for some unseen object then rose and handed Wade a piece of paper. “Have you made preparation for your proposal to Louise?”
Wade slowly lowered his head, realizing that he had nothing to offer, no ring, and no funding available for a gem of appropriate size. “No, sir.”
“That is not a problem. Take this paper downstairs to a cashier. He will make sure you have ample money to invest in a lovely ring. I would suggest you visit Mr. Barnes. Tell him I sent you, and he will find the perfect ring for Louise. He will be expecting you.” Wade took the paper and gawked at the amount written on the paper. He had never seen such an extravagant amount.
“Sir, I don’t know how I would ever repay you.”
“I will be repaid when I see my child happily married.”
Wade thanked him profusely then left to follow his instructions, silently planning his words of proposal, imagining his wedding day and the future with his lovely wife.