“What are you thinking?” his grandmother asked.
“My greatest concern is for the children. Some don’t have adequate food and clothing or opportunities for schooling and religious training.”
“What about their families?”
“Many of their parents are too poor—and sadly, some children have no family at all. They live on the street or in abandoned buildings, wherever they can find a place out of the weather.”
“My goodness, what a dreadful thought.”
Kate remembered the three children they’d seen on the street the first time they’d searched for Helen. They’d helped them find their way to Daystar, but what had happened to them after that?
“Yes, just a few miles from your door, there are many who are suffering and in great need.”
His grandmother released a sigh. “Of course, you read about the poor and the troubles in the East End, but I hadn’t really thought about the children.”
Jon leaned forward and clasped his hands. “Dr. Pittsford and I have been discussing opening a children’s center. We want to provide a safe haven where children could come and receive a warm meal and clothing. We hope to recruit volunteers who could offer Bible classes and collect books for a library. We could offer vocational training for the older children to help them develop skills that could take them out of poverty and provide hope for their future.”
A smile broke across Kate’s face. “What a wonderful idea! So many children could be helped at a center like that.”
His grandmother chuckled. “You both sound quite enthusiastic about it.”
Jon sent Kate a warm smile, then looked at his grandmother again. “I think we could provide practical help to many children who feel abandoned and hopeless.”
“Are you prepared to follow through with your plans?”
Jon straightened. “There is a vacant building just a few doors down from Dr. Pittsford’s home. It’s only a short distance from the clinic. It would be the ideal location.”
“Have you started raising funds for the project?”
Jon’s eyes widened. “Not yet.”
“How much would it take to open this children’s center?”
“I’m not sure, but I can discuss it with Dr. Pittsford.”
“Please do, and report back to me. This sounds like the kind of project I want to support, especially if my grandson is going to be involved with it.”
“Thank you, Grandmother. We would be very pleased to have your support.”
“Helping children in need is a worthy goal, and if you were committed to it, then I’d be more than willing to become a sponsor.”
Jon’s eyes shone as he glanced at Kate. With his grandmother’s support, the project might be a real possibility.
Excitement bubbled up in her heart. Coming to the aid of poor, homeless children and giving them hope for the future—what could be more rewarding? Perhaps she might be able to volunteer at the center as well. She could organize the library, read aloud to the children, or do any number of things to help Jon.
But a sudden thought struck Kate. Her dream of receiving a proposal this season had faded to a distant possibility. In a few weeks she would pack her trunks, say good-bye to Jon, and go home to Highland.
His dream of opening the children’s center would come to pass, but she would not be here to see it or play any part in his life … And that thought pierced her heart.
SEVENTEEN
William slowly climbed the main stairs and walked down the hall toward the nursery. Late afternoon sunlight streamed through the upper hallway windows, brightening his path, but it did little to lift his spirit. Perhaps some time with Julia and the children would lighten the weight that was pressing down on him.
He’d spent a good part of the day with his solicitor, Mr. Bixby, coordinating his efforts to help his brother. First they’d met with David for almost two hours, then they conferred with Mr. Jeffers, the private investigator who was conducting his own inquiry into the Martindale murder. There had been little new information exchanged, and that had been frustrating for everyone.
Julia’s voice drifted out of the nursery, and his steps slowed. It sounded as though she was reading aloud to the children. He stopped in the doorway and leaned against the doorjamb, taking in the scene.
Millie sat in her small rocking chair, her doll on her lap and her pensive gaze fixed on Julia. Andrew lay on the rug, his hands propping up his chin. For once, his son seemed as still as a statue. Penny sat beside the children in the overstuffed chair, her embroidery project abandoned in her lap as she gazed toward the window and listened to the story. Julia sat in the center with the book open in her lap and her back to William.
“ ‘Peter Pan got by the window, which had no bars,’ ” Julia read. “ ‘Standing on the ledge he could see trees far away, which were doubtless the Kensington Gardens, and the moment he saw them he entirely forgot that he was a little boy in a nightgown, and away he flew, right over the houses to the Gardens. It was wonderful that he could fly without wings … and, perhaps we could all fly if we were as dead-confident-sure of our capacity to do it as was bold Peter Pan that evening.’ ”
William waited, hesitant to break the spell the story had cast over them all, but Julia looked over her shoulder, as though she sensed his presence.
He held up his hand. “Don’t stop on my account.”
She smiled and glanced down at the book. “It’s all right. We’re near the end of the chapter, and we should go down for tea soon.”
Andrew groaned. “Must we stop? We’ve finally come to the part where Peter is flying.”
“Yes, I want to hear more of the story,” Millie said.
“We’ll read another chapter before bed.” Julia closed the book and turned to Penny. “Will you stay with the children for a few minutes?”
“Of course.” Penny picked up her sewing, while Andrew rolled over and then sprang up to his feet.
Julia rose and joined William in the hall. “How was your time with David?” She studied his face, and her brow creased. “You look tired.”
“I am rather weary. Seeing David in such a depressing place was difficult, and not knowing what the future holds makes it more so.”
“How did Mr. Bixby handle things?”
“He questioned David again about several aspects of the case and explained the process and what’s to be expected.”
“How is David taking it?”
“His spirits are quite low. He had hoped to hear from Dorothea, but she hasn’t written, and I doubt she’ll visit. I certainly wouldn’t recommend it. The place is ghastly.”
Julia nodded, concern reflected in her eyes.
“David is anxious about keeping things going at Ramsey Imports.”
“Does he have someone there who can step in for him?”
William shook his head. “He had a disagreement with Charles Claxton a few weeks ago, and he let him go. He hasn’t replaced him, and now there’s no one who really knows all that needs to be done there … except me.”
“You?”
He took her hand. “I offered to run things until David returns.”
“Oh, William, that’s quite a heavy commitment.”
“Yes, but a necessary one. David could lose everything if someone doesn’t take it on.”
Julia looked up at him. “I hope he appreciates all you’re doing for him.”
“He does. When I offered to help at the office, he was so relieved he broke down. Then he thanked me quite sincerely. You could see how much it meant to him.”
“I’m glad to hear it.”
“It will mean several hours a day away from you and the children, but it will give me a chance to show I sincerely want to help him.”
“You are a kind and forgiving brother.”
“I’m trying.”
She squeezed his hand. “And you’re succeeding.”
“I hope it will heal the wounds from the past and close the distance between us.”
Julia nodded. “And the meeting with the investigator … how did that go?”
“It went well. Mr. Jeffers is very thorough and eager to get to the bottom of things.”
“That’s good. It seems our prayers are having an impact.”
William nodded, and the weight he’d felt earlier eased a bit. Julia was right. They did not carry this burden alone. How blessed he was that he could share his concerns and know Julia would listen and respond with wisdom and compassion. How had he managed so long without her?
He took her hand again. “And how was your day, my dear?”
Her expression brightened. “I had the best news.”
“What was that?”
“My father’s health has improved enough for my parents to come to town for the annual meetings of the London Missionary Society. They asked if they might stay with us.”
“Of course. They’re always welcome in our home. When are they coming?”
“They arrive midday on Wednesday and will stay through Sunday.”
“This week?”
“Yes. I know it’s short notice. I hope you don’t mind.”
“Not at all. I look forward to seeing them.”
Julia looked up at him. “I can’t wait to tell Jon. He’ll be so pleased, and now we can all attend the society’s meetings together.”
William smiled. It was wonderful to see her so happy. “You think I should attend as well?”
She tipped her head, and her expression held a hint of teasing. “Of course. I’m expecting you to come.”
“Is that right?” He couldn’t hold back a small chuckle.
“Yes, I may not be a full-time missionary anymore, but I’m still very interested in the work of the London Missionary Society, and I hope you will be too.”
How could he resist when her smile was so persuasive? “If it’s important to you, my dear, then I’ll plan to come.”
“Thank you, William.” Before they started down the stairs, she leaned over and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. “I can’t wait to introduce you to all our friends. And I’m sure Father will be invited to give a report about our work in India. It should be quite inspiring.”
“I’m sure it will be.” He paused when he reached the entry hall. “I’ll attend as many meetings as I can, but I’ll have to carry on with my duties at Ramsey Imports.”
“Of course. I understand. I’ll be happy to have you with us whenever you can come.”
The sweetness of her smile drew him closer, and he leaned down and gave her a tender kiss.
Raindrops splattered on the side window of the motorcar, blurring Kate’s view of the street, but adding to the cozy atmosphere of the ride home with Jon. They had finished their work at Daystar twenty minutes earlier and hurried to meet the chauffeur, who came to pick them up at six.
The traffic slowed to a stop, and raindrops drummed on the roof of the car. They usually took the omnibus home, but with this rain, it was a blessing Julia had sent the chauffeur to meet them.
Jon leaned forward. “What seems to be the holdup, Hardy?”
The chauffeur looked over his shoulder. “I’m not sure, sir. It could be the weather or an accident.”
Jon glanced at his watch, then sat back and looked across at Kate. “I’m sorry for the delay.”
How thoughtful he was. “It’s all right. It’s not your fault.”
“But I promised Julia and William that I’d have you home in time for dinner.”
“I’m sure they’ll understand, and I don’t mind … not at all.” It had been a lovely day, in spite of the rain and the full schedule at Daystar.
His gaze warmed. “Thank you for helping at the clinic. I appreciate all the time you’ve given these last few weeks.”
“I enjoy it … very much.” She wanted to say spending that time with him and sharing in his work was what made it truly meaningful, but she didn’t quite have the courage.
He reached for her hand. “Having you there with me is very special.”
A sense of wonder flowed through Kate. She tightened her fingers around his, hoping her response would say what she could not … how much she admired him and how much she wanted to see all his dreams for the children’s center come true. But the car lurched ahead, their hands slipped apart, and the moment was lost.
Even so, hope and new possibilities stirred in her heart.
Julia read through the list of preparations for her parents’ visit. With such short notice, she was especially thankful for the help of her staff.
Mrs. Adams walked into the drawing room. “You sent for me, miss?”
“Yes, please sit down.” Julia motioned toward the chair across from her. Mrs. Adams took a seat. “My parents are coming to town tomorrow, and I’d like to discuss the arrangements for their visit.”
“Yes, miss.” The housekeeper took a small notebook and pencil from her pocket.
“Their train comes in at twelve-thirty, and they should arrive at the house about one.”
“Would you like to wait and serve luncheon after that?” Mrs. Adams asked.
“Yes. We’ll give them a few minutes to settle in, then we should be ready to gather in the dining room by one-thirty. They’ll be staying with us through luncheon on Sunday, and then take the three-thirty train back to Berkshire.”
Mrs. Adams looked down and made a note of it. “Did you want to send the car to the station to pick them up tomorrow?”
“Yes, please ask Mr. Lawrence to make those arrangements. Jon and I will go and meet them.”
“Very good, miss.”
“I’d like my parents to stay in the Devonshire guest room. Would you air it out and make sure it’s ready? And roses are my mother’s favorite flowers. Please cut a nice bouquet for her.”
“Yes, miss. I’ll see to their room and the flowers.”
“We’ll be attending the London Missionary Society meetings while they’re here, so I expect we’ll have luncheon out on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. And we’ll attend the closing dinner on Saturday evening. But we’ll have luncheon here on Sunday after church.”
“Will Miss Penelope and Miss Katherine be attending the meetings with you?”
“Yes, the girls are coming, and Jon as well.” She hesitated a moment, wondering if she ought to confirm that with him. He hadn’t been as enthusiastic about his parents’ arrival as she had expected, but then, he had been a bit distracted lately. Was it because of the robbery and his concern about finding Lydia’s missing sister, or was it something else?
“And the children, miss?”
Julia looked back at Mrs. Adams. “They’ll be here under Ann’s care while we attend the meetings.”
“Very good, miss. I’ll let Mrs. Murdock know they’ll be eating in the nursery for those meals.”
“Yes, thank you.” Julia glanced at her list, then sat back. “That’s everything … unless you can think of anything else?”
“Did you want to speak to Mrs. Murdock about the menus?”
“I don’t want to make any changes at this late date. My parents will be happy with whatever we have planned.”
Mrs. Adams’s expression warmed. “I’m sure it will be a lovely visit.”
Julia smiled. “Thank you, Mrs. Adams. I’m very grateful for the efficient way you’ve run the house and taken care of us these past two months.”
“I’m glad to know you’re pleased, miss.”
“I’m very pleased, and I’ll be sorry to say good-bye when we return to Highland.”
“That’s kind of you, miss. I’ve enjoyed my time here at Ramsey House.”
They had hired Mrs. Dalton, Clark’s mother, to fill the position of housekeeper at Highland Hall. Julia hoped that would not be a difficult adjustment for them all, especially with the wedding scheduled for early September, just one month after they returned to Highland. “I’ll be happy to write a good reference for you when the time comes.”
“I’d be grateful, miss. Is there anything else I can
do for you?”
Julia thought for a moment. “Yes, there is one thing. Come with me.” They walked out to the far end of the entrance hall. “It’s about this painting.” She touched the gilded frame around one of the Ramsey family portraits. “It looks as though the canvas is coming loose from the frame.”
Mrs. Adams gently moved the frame away from the wall and looked behind. “Yes, I see what you mean. I’ll speak to Mr. Lawrence about it. I’m sure we can find someone to make the repair.”
“Thank you. I’d appreciate it.” Julia looked up at the painting of William’s family, remembering the longstanding rivalry between him and David. But the brothers stood side by side in this painting, William’s arm draped around David’s shoulder. His sister, Sarah, stood on the other side of William, with their parents and the elder brother, Nathaniel, behind them.
The front door opened. Jon stepped forward and held the door for Kate with a playful flourish. “After you, m’lady.”
“Thank you, kind sir.” Kate looked up at him with a teasing smile as she passed through. Neither of them seemed to realize anyone else was in the entrance hall.
Kate waited for Jon at the bottom of the stairs, while he closed the front door and then joined her. “I should go up and change.”
Julia tensed. Kate sounded a bit breathless.
Jon cocked his head and took a step closer. “If you must.”
Her cheeks flushed. “Yes, I must.” She started up the stairs, then stopped when she reached the lower landing. “I’ll see you at dinner.”
The look of affection in Kate’s eyes left no doubt in Julia’s mind.
It was time she had a talk with Jon.
Jon watched Kate climb the stairs while happy memories of the day replayed through his mind. What a pleasure to spend so many hours together, working side by side, sharing the same goals, and enjoying the same rewards for their service—
“Jon, may I have a word with you?”
Jon blinked and turned. Julia stood at the far end of the hall, a questioning look in her eyes. Mrs. Adams stood next to her.
He had been so caught up with thoughts of Kate that he hadn’t even noticed them when he’d entered the house. “Yes, of course.”
The Daughter of Highland Hall Page 24