The Daughter of Highland Hall

by Carrie Turansky

Her aunt’s eyes bulged. “Yes, for once we agree! I’ve had more than enough. I’m leaving.”

  William motioned toward the front door. “I think that would be best.”

  “Very well!” Louisa looked at each one, and when no one stopped her, she huffed and flounced out the front door.

  The door swung closed, and Julia lowered her hands to her chest. “Thank goodness, I thought she would never go.”

  William crossed to stand with Julia. “Perhaps we’ll finally have some peace in this house.”

  Jon shifted his gaze to Kate, and a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.

  She pressed her lips together, but soon her laughter bubbled up and overflowed, and Jon joined her. After she caught her breath, she turned to William. “I’m sorry.”

  “It’s all right. I’m glad you haven’t let your aunt spoil your happy day.”

  Jon took Kate’s hand, his eyes bright. “Nothing could ruin our happiness today, not even Lady Gatewood.”

  Kate tightened her hold on Jon’s hand. He was right. Louisa’s departure would allow them to enjoy these last few weeks in London.

  William motioned toward the library. “I believe we have a very important conversation to finish.”

  They all returned to the library. Kate and Jon sat together, across from William and Julia.

  William looked at Kate. “Jon has asked for your hand, and I’ve given him my consent. Julia and I believe you are well matched, and we look forward to helping you prepare for marriage, but I would ask two things.” He paused and sent them both a serious look. “I’d like Jon to finish his medical training before the wedding, and I’d like to be sure you have a safe and proper place to live.”

  That meant she and Jon would have to spend at least four months apart, but it wouldn’t seem so long once they set a wedding date and could start making plans. Finding a suitable place to live would be a greater challenge, but she was eager to start a new life with Jon, no matter where they lived.

  Jon looked her way, and she nodded. He faced William again. “We’re grateful for your counsel and ready to do as you’ve asked.”

  William smiled and nodded. “Very well, then I give you my blessing.”

  During those next few weeks, Kate felt as though she floated on a cloud of happiness. She and Jon had found a way to see each other almost every day. Jon became a regular dinner guest at Ramsey House, and after a serious discussion, William relaxed his rule and allowed Kate to return to Daystar.

  The Pittsfords invited them for dinner one evening, and Kate enjoyed discussing plans for the children’s center. Knowing she would partner with Jon to see the project completed brought her great joy.

  Two days before the family was scheduled to return to Highland, Jon and Kate enjoyed a leisurely stroll through Wiltshire Park. It was a perfect afternoon, with warm sunshine and fresh, clear skies.

  When they returned to the house, Lawrence greeted them at the front door. “Sir William asked that you join him in the drawing room.”

  “Thank you, Lawrence.” Kate sent Jon a questioning glance, and he returned the same. They crossed the entrance hall and entered the drawing room. William stood by the fireplace, and Julia sat in a chair nearby.

  Kate searched their faces. “You wanted to see us?”

  “Yes, please sit down.” William motioned to the settee. “We have something important to discuss.”

  Kate took a seat, and Jon sat next to her.

  “My brother, David, and Dorothea came for a visit today and gave us a wedding gift.”

  Julia’s smile hinted at some secret. “It’s quite a surprising gift … and as William and I talked about it, we realized it needs to be put to good use.”

  Kate looked back and forth between them. “What is it?”

  William’s expression brightened. “David has given us his half interest in this house. And now that it’s ours to do with as we please, we would like to give it to you and Jon.”

  Kate’s mouth dropped open. “You want to give us this house?”

  “Yes, we do.”

  Kate quickly tempered her response and looked at Jon. What did he think? Would he want to live in a large house like this?

  Jon’s brow creased. “That’s kind of you, but …”

  William held up his hand. “I understand your hesitation, and I want to assure you Julia and I will continue covering the expenses until your inheritance becomes available.”

  Jon’s expression eased. “That’s very generous, but with just the two of us, I’m not sure it would be wise to take on the responsibility for such a large home.”

  Kate released a deep breath. Of course, Jon was right. She must be sensible. As much as she would enjoy living here, it might not be the best home for them after they married.

  Julia’s eyes twinkled. “We thought you might feel that way, so we had another idea to propose.” She glanced at Jon and Kate. “What if you used the house in connection with your ministry?”

  Kate’s hope rose, and she looked at Jon.

  Interest sparked in his eyes. “What were you thinking?”

  “Perhaps you could extend the work of Daystar and the children’s center by opening a home for orphaned and abandoned children.”

  The vivid dream that had awakened Kate the morning Jon proposed flashed through her mind. Had God given her that dream to encourage her to consider this new idea?

  Jon’s expression brightened, and he turned toward Kate. “It sounds intriguing. What do you think?”

  Her smile spread wider. “It’s a wonderful idea.”

  “We’d need to find some others to help us, but we have time to make those plans.”

  Julia nodded. “I wondered if Helen might want to stay on and help you care for the children, and perhaps Lydia would want to work with you as well.”

  “That’s an excellent suggestion.” Kate couldn’t wait to ask them to consider staying on at Ramsey House … or would they call it the Daystar Children’s Home?

  Jon rose and extended his hand to William. “Thank you.”

  “You’re welcome.” William shook Jon’s hand.

  Kate stood. “Yes, we’re very grateful.” She embraced William and then Julia.

  Jon took Kate’s hand again, confidence and expectation flowing from his hand to hers. Her heart felt so full it nearly burst with joy. Her prayer had been answered. The path toward her future was clear now, and the man she loved would walk with her on that journey. They would fill this house with love, faith, and family, and the Lord’s blessing would cover them all.

  TWENTY-SIX

  On a frosty morning, three days before Christmas, feathery snowflakes floated down, dusting the countryside around Highland Hall. Kate gazed out the side window of the motorcar as they traveled into the village of Fulton, along narrow streets, and past shops and lampposts decorated with evergreen boughs and holly.

  “Isn’t the snow pretty?” Penny looked out the opposite window. “It’s like God is sending down His blessing on your wedding day.”

  “Yes, it’s beautiful.” Kate smiled, her heart feeling as light as one of those dancing snowflakes. Today she and Jon would take their vows before family and friends and begin their new life together. And though they had spent five months planning for this day, it didn’t quite seem real.

  William looked over his shoulder from the front seat. “I’m just glad the snow didn’t start earlier. We wouldn’t want it to keep anyone away from the ceremony.”

  “I’m sure it won’t.” Penny smiled at Kate. “I’m so excited. I can’t wait to see everyone.” Kate guessed she was thinking especially of Theo Anderson, who would stand with Jon as his best man.

  Kate gazed out the window again, happy memories and hopeful dreams filling her heart. They had kept their promise to William. Jon had finished his training at St. George’s, and there were now two Dr. Fosters in the family. His parents had been so proud when he received his medical degree, and they were thrilled with Jon and Kate’s plans to open
the Daystar Children’s Home.

  The motorcar pulled up to the front of St. John’s Church. Hardy opened William’s door, and then Penny and Kate’s. Her sister climbed out first and helped Kate lift her train off the snowy walkway. She felt like a princess in her white silk gown, decorated with pearl beading and Belgian lace. They passed under the stone archway, then stepped inside. Soft organ music greeted them, along with the scent of lemon oil and fresh-cut flowers.

  Julia met Kate in the narthex and took her hand. She had come in the other car with the children, Sarah, and Clark. “You look lovely, Kate.” Tears shimmered in her eyes as she leaned in and kissed Kate’s cheek. “God bless you,” she whispered, then she slipped away and entered the side door to take her place in the family’s pew up front.

  Sarah and Clark approached, carrying two bouquets. Sarah handed one to Penny, and Clark offered the other to Kate.

  “Thank you so much. They’re beautiful.” Kate knew the red and white roses, ferns, and ivy had been grown in Highland’s greenhouse and carefully tended by Clark himself.

  “We’re very happy for you, Kate.” Sarah kissed Kate’s cheek. “We wish you and Jon all the best.” Kate thanked them. Sarah took Clark’s arm, and they entered the sanctuary.

  Andrew shifted his weight from one foot to the other and looked up at William. “Is it almost time, Papa?”

  William rested his hand on Andrew’s shoulder. “Yes, we’ll be going in soon.”

  Millie stood beside Andrew, wearing a white dress with a red sash that matched Penny’s. She grinned up at Kate and then took her place next to Penny.

  Mrs. Fields, the minister’s wife, touched Kate’s arm. “Are you ready, my dear?”

  Kate’s stomach fluttered, and she glanced at William. “Yes, we are.”

  William offered her his arm, along with a misty smile.

  Mrs. Fields opened the center door, and a happy shiver of anticipation traveled through Kate. Friends, family, and Highland staff filled the pews. Jon stood up front, facing the altar with Theo at his side. The organ music changed to Wagner’s “Bridal Chorus,” and the guests rose to their feet.

  Kate tightened her hold on William’s arm, and they started down the aisle. Penny, Millie, and Andrew followed, helping Kate with her train.

  Jon turned and faced Kate. Surprise and delight filled his eyes as he gazed at her. He looked wonderfully handsome, dressed in his morning coat with a white rose pinned to his lapel. Theo stood next to him, dressed in a similar fashion.

  Kate fixed her eyes on Jon, and everyone else seemed to fade from view. She met him at the altar, and as he took her hand, William stepped away. Relief flowed through Kate. With Jon at her side, she could catch her breath and enjoy the ceremony.

  Hymns, Scripture, and sacred prayers and promises were woven together over the next hour. Jon placed the ring on her finger, his voice husky as he repeated his vows. Kate’s hand shook slightly as she gave Jon his ring and repeated the promises that would forever change her life.

  Reverend Fields lifted his hand and prayed a final blessing over them. Joyful organ music filled the sanctuary, and they followed Reverend Fields into the vestry to sign the wedding documents, with Penny and Theo as their witnesses.

  “It’s official.” The reverend looked up. “You’re now Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Foster.”

  “Congratulations!” Theo pumped Jon’s hand and grinned at Kate.

  “Thank you, Theo.” The men clapped each other on the shoulder, looking relieved.

  Penny kissed Kate’s cheek. “I wish you every happiness.” She handed Kate her bridal bouquet.

  Happy tears sprang to Kate’s eyes. “Thank you, Penny. I’m so glad you’re here with me today.”

  Then Jon took her hand again. They walked back into the sanctuary and started up the aisle together, the guests smiling as they passed.

  When they reached the narthex, Mrs. Fields closed the main door and turned to them with twinkling eyes. “Would you like a moment alone before the guests come flooding back?”

  Jon tightened his hold on Kate’s hand. “Yes, thank you.” He led Kate to the corner by the arched window. The snow had stopped, and sunshine broke through the clouds.

  He looked down at her with a tender smile. “Well, Mrs. Foster, we’ve made our promises and signed our names. There’s no turning back now.”

  “I wouldn’t want to.” She felt a bit breathless as she met his gaze. “You’ve made me the happiest girl in the world today.”

  His smile warmed, and he drew her closer. “Is that right?

  “Yes,” she whispered. “So very happy.”

  He leaned down and brushed his lips softly over hers. Her eyes drifted closed, and her heart seemed to beat with his as they shared their first tender kiss as man and wife.

  “The guests are coming,” Mrs. Fields called.

  Jon reluctantly released her, and Kate stepped back. His loving look told her this was just the beginning of all they would enjoy together in the days to come. She clasped his hand, and they took their places by the open front door.

  The guests poured out of the sanctuary, and a chorus of “Congratulations” and “Best wishes” filled the air around them. From the church tower, bells rang out, adding their joyful song to the celebration.

  Kate lifted her face to the sunshine streaming down from an opening in the clouds, and her heart overflowed with thankfulness. How blessed they were to have family and friends who loved them and who shared their happiness today. In a few weeks she and Jon would open the Daystar Children’s Home and begin investing in the lives of needy children. She knew the road ahead might not be easy, but with God’s help and guidance, she was confident they would build meaningful lives for themselves and the children … and no title, estate, or life of privilege could ever compare to the future she and Jon would share.

  READERS GUIDE

  1. Before Kate came to London for the season, she and her aunt created a list of qualifications for Kate’s future husband. She hoped for a proposal from a man who was from a wealthy family and in line to inherit a title and estate. How did her views change over the course of the story? What do you think are the most important qualities in a mate?

  2. Lady Louisa Gatewood wanted Kate to make a good match and be assured of a place in London society. Why was she so intent on this? What did you think of her methods of achieving this goal? What role do friends and family take today in helping someone move toward marriage?

  3. Kate and Julia’s relationship has changed a great deal since they first met. How did those changes happen, and what has resulted from those changes? Have you ever struggled in a relationship and seen it change for the better?

  4. Jon was torn about where he would practice when he finished his medical training. Why did he struggle with this decision? What factors were important to Jon as he made the decision? What do you think of his choice?

  5. Dr. Pittsford decided to move his family to the East End, a dangerous area known for poverty and crime. Why did he do this? How do you think it impacted his family and his ministry? Have you ever been involved in an inner-city ministry, and how did it impact you?

  6. William struggled to have a good relationship with his brother, David. When David was called in for questioning and then arrested, how did William show he was committed to helping him? What were the results of those efforts? Have you ever had a difficult relationship with a sibling or other family member, and what has helped you draw closer to them?

  7. Edward Wellington seemed sincere in his pursuit of Kate, but he was strongly influenced by his parents. What do you think of Edward? What are his good points? What are his weaknesses?

  8. Kate was very inspired by Catherine Bramwell-Booth’s message about helping those in need balanced with clearly presenting the gospel. Do you know of any ministries today that have a similar emphasis?

  9. Helen was afraid to tell her parents she was pregnant, so she ran away with Charlie. Her situation went from bad to worse as she spen
t more time with Charlie. How was she able to find the courage to get the help she needed for herself and her baby? Discuss what you would do if you were called upon to help someone in a similar crisis.

  10. Jon and Kate’s desire to help orphaned and abandoned children led them to open the Daystar Children’s Center and the Daystar Children’s Home. Do you think they will do well in this type of ministry? What qualities do you think they will need to be successful in helping the children?

  ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

  I am very grateful for all those who gave their support and encouragement and provided information in the process of writing this book. Without your help it would never make it into readers’ hands!

  I’d like to say thank you to:

  • My husband, Scott, who provides great feedback and constant encouragement, and who never seems to tire of listening to me talk about my characters and their dilemmas. Your love and support allows me to follow my dreams and write the books of my heart.

  • Cathy Gohlke, fellow author and friend, who helped me brainstorm ideas for this series, talked me through difficult days, and then traveled with me to visit Highland Hall–Tyntesfield. It’s great to share this journey with you!

  • Terri Gillespie, Vickie McDonough, Claudia Gentile, Caty Dovgala-Carr, and Ella Furlong, my fellow authors and dear friends, for providing help with brainstorming and thoughtful critiques. You have helped me so much. I appreciate you!

  • Steve Laube, my literary agent, for his patience, guidance, and wise counsel. He has been a great advocate who has represented me well. I feel blessed to be your client.

  • Shannon Marchese, Karen Ball, Laura Wright, and Rose Decaen, my gifted editors, who helped me shape the story and then polish it so readers will truly enjoy it.

  • Kristopher Orr, the multitalented designer at WaterBrook Multnomah, and Mike Heath, of Magnus Creative, for the lovely cover design. Thanks for inviting me to have input in the process. You did an awesome job, again capturing the mood of the story and my heroine.