The Brickmaker's Bride (29 page)

January 1870

U
sing the arm of the divan to help propel her forward, Kathleen struggled to stand. The girl’s swollen feet would no longer fit into anything other than a pair of soft slippers Laura had knit for her. “The doctor says this swelling isn’t a good sign, and I shouldn’t use salt on my food, but even that hasn’t helped.”

Laura offered a slight smile. Kathleen’s feet looked like overstuffed sausages ready to burst from their casings. “Perhaps you should prop up your feet. Did the doctor mention anything other than decreasing salt?”

Kathleen shuffled toward the parlor door. “Nay, but I’m weary of sitting. I do wish I could go for a long walk, but just these few steps cause pain.”

Laura stood and hurried to Kathleen’s side. “Then let me help you down the hallway. You can sit on your bed with your feet propped.”

Once settled, Kathleen grasped Laura’s hand. “I want to speak with you and your mother when you have a little time.”
She rested her hands on her protruding stomach. “About the future.”

The baby was expected in March, and Kathleen had grown increasingly uncomfortable as time passed. Mrs. Woodfield had recently transformed the library into a bedroom so the young woman wouldn’t have to climb the cumbersome stairway to the second floor. Also, the library provided a lovely view of the mountains.

Later, when Laura carried the message to her mother, the older woman frowned. “I hope this has nothing to do with the message she received from her sister yesterday.” Mrs. Woodfield shook her head. “Though she tried to hide her tears from me, I’m afraid the note from Margaret caused Kathleen a great deal of pain.” She steadied her gaze on Laura. “Did she reveal the contents to you?”

“Not a word. She merely said she wanted to talk to us about the future.”

Mrs. Woodfield massaged her forehead. “I wonder if Margaret has seen the error of her ways and wants Kathleen to return to Crothers Mansion before the baby is born. If Kathleen leaves, I hope Dr. Balch will agree to continue her care.”

“No need to worry, Mother. We both know it doesn’t help a whit.”

“Easier said than done, my dear.” Mrs. Woodfield stepped to the kitchen door and instructed Catherine to bring tea to the library and then waved Laura to follow her. “Let’s see what Kathleen wants to discuss.”

Kathleen was standing and gazing out the French doors leading to the garden when Laura and her mother entered the room. She turned toward the two women while supporting her back with one hand. “My lower back seems to ache no matter whether I’m sitting, standing, or lying in bed. I suppose all women go through this.”

“Some more than others, I think,” Mrs. Woodfield said. “Would you like to sit down? We can adjust a pillow behind you. I really think it’s better if you keep your feet propped.”

Kathleen agreed. While Laura placed a pillow and a thin folded blanket behind the young woman’s back, Mrs. Woodfield sat down on the divan. “Laura tells me you want to talk about the future.”

A fleeting look of hesitation shone in Kathleen’s eyes, but she nodded her head. She reached to the table beside her chair and picked up an envelope. “I’m sure you know my sister had a message delivered to me yesterday.”

“Yes, though I have no idea of the contents.” Mrs. Woodfield glanced at Laura.

“Nor do I, but Catherine did tell us you’d received a message from Crothers Mansion.” Laura wanted Kathleen to understand that the household staff kept them apprised of anything delivered to the house, but no one had read or ever would read her private mail.

The girl forced a smile. “I think I should tell you the contents of the message.” Her voice hitched. “Margaret wrote to tell me that Terrance O’Grady was married a few days ago.” Her body quaked as she attempted to hold back her sobs. “Margaret said she wanted me to know so that I wouldn’t hold out hope that Terrance might change his mind and marry me before the babe is born. She said it would be best for all concerned if I no longer lived in the area. Why did she feel the need to put a knife in my heart?”

Mrs. Woodfield sighed. “Perhaps we should give Margaret the benefit of the doubt. Rather than attempting to hurt you, she may have hoped to soften the blow by sending the information before anyone else carried the news to our doorstep. Right now, you must focus on your health and that of the unborn child. Becoming distressed won’t serve you or the child well at this time.”

“I know you’re right, Mrs. Woodfield, but ever since I came here, I’ve been praying Margaret would change her mind and welcome me back home. When the letter arrived, I thought maybe . . .” Kathleen sniffed as unbidden tears flowed down her cheeks. “I should have known better. Now that I know she will never accept me or the baby back into her home, I’ve made some decisions.” Kathleen reached for Laura’s hand. “I will need help from both of you to carry out my plan, but please don’t agree unless it is truly what you think is best for all of us.

“Shortly after I arrived, your mother mentioned a friend who owns a millinery in New York. She offered to write the woman and see if she’d be willing to train me so that I could learn a skill and support myself. I do think it would be easier for me to begin over if I moved away from here.”

Laura wasn’t surprised by her mother’s generosity. Kathleen would need to support herself, and without proper training, it would be difficult. She could seek work as a housekeeper or maid in Fairmont or Wheeling, but many of those positions were already being filled by war widows.

Kathleen glanced toward the door as Catherine stepped into the library with a tea tray, then quietly exited. “If I remain here, I can’t support myself or the child, and there would be nothing but heartache for both of us. I think it would be best if I left.”

“And the baby?” Laura’s gaze moved to Kathleen’s swollen belly. “How will you care for the child and complete your training at the millinery shop?”

She squeezed Laura’s hand. “That’s the part I must discuss with you. I know you and Ewan plan to marry, and it is my hope that the two of you would raise my baby as your own.”

Laura’s breath caught. She and Ewan had spoken of marriage, and they both acted as if marriage was in their future. Still, Ewan hadn’t formally proposed. “I would be honored to
raise your baby, and it would give me great joy, Kathleen, but Ewan hasn’t yet asked me to marry him, so I can’t give you a definite answer to the question you’ve posed.”

Her mother sighed. “Ewan hasn’t yet asked for your hand, but he spoke with me recently, and I gave my blessing to your marriage.” Laura’s mouth dropped open, but before she could speak, her mother hurried on. “I know I’ve ruined the proposal for him, but I don’t think he would want Kathleen fretting about the future of the baby.” Mrs. Woodfield looked at Laura. “And we both know he loves children and will be delighted to raise Kathleen’s child.”

Laura didn’t know what surprised her more: Kathleen’s request that she and Ewan raise the baby or the fact that Ewan had already asked and received her mother’s permission for them to wed.

When Laura had finally gathered her thoughts, she turned toward Kathleen. “Even though my mother and Ewan have spoken, I would like an opportunity to talk with him and gauge his reaction. I’m sure that Mother is correct and he will be more than delighted to raise your child, but I do think we should talk before I accept on his behalf.”

“I think that’s best, as well.” Kathleen glanced at Mrs. Woodfield. “If Ewan agrees, will you send word to your friend?”

“I must be truthful with you, Kathleen. I took the liberty of writing to her shortly after we first discussed the matter. I’ve recently received her answer. She said she’d be delighted to have you as her new assistant. Her letter states that there are living quarters above the shop that she no longer uses, and you may live there as long as you’d like.” Mrs. Woodfield leaned back in her chair, a pleased expression on her face. “I know you will learn quickly and be an asset to the shop.”

A slight blush colored Kathleen’s cheeks. “Thank you, Mrs.
Woodfield. I can never repay the kindness you and Laura have shown me.”

“If we’ve helped you, then I suggest you do the same for someone else if the opportunity should ever present itself in the future.” Mrs. Woodfield smiled at the girl. “That was my husband’s philosophy. He helped any number of people during his lifetime, and those same people are now helping others. I hope you will do the same.”

“And is that
your
philosophy as well, Mrs. Woodfield?” Kathleen searched the older woman’s face.

“I agree with my husband’s idea, Kathleen, but I prefer the verse in the book of Luke that says, ‘And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.’” Mrs. Woodfield lifted her cup and took a sip of tea. “It’s not always possible to do something tangible, but we can always treat others with dignity and grace.”

Laura nodded her agreement, but her thoughts weren’t on the philosophy of either her mother or father. Rather, she’d slipped into a somewhat bewildered state over what might transpire during the upcoming months. She’d told Kathleen she would speak with Ewan, but how would one go about bringing up such a delicate topic without seeming like a besotted spinster hoping to land a husband by any means available? Ewan had certainly expressed his love for her, and he’d asked her mother for her hand in marriage. So why hadn’t he spoken to her? He could have had a change of heart by now.

Laura’s palms turned damp at the thought of mentioning marriage to Ewan and being rejected. She could think of no reason he might have changed his mind, but he’d had ample opportunities to ask for her hand. So why hadn’t he?

“Ewan is coming for dinner this evening, so Laura can speak with him tonight, Kathleen.”

Laura snapped to attention at her mother’s comment. “Tonight?” Her voice cracked, and she swallowed hard. “Perhaps it would be better to wait a few days until we’ve all had time to . . . to . . .” She struggled to think of some reason that would make sense to the other two women. They both continued to stare at her. “To digest what we’ve decided,” she finally said.

“Nonsense. There’s nothing to digest, Laura. It’s not as if we’ve eaten a large meal. What is there that needs any further thought? You need to speak with Ewan this evening so Kathleen can set her mind at ease.”

Kathleen nodded her agreement while Laura downed the remains of her tea. “I believe I’ll go upstairs and decide what I shall wear for dinner this evening.”

Her mother beamed. “That’s a wonderful idea. You should consider the violet gown with the deep rose ribbons. It’s lovely with your complexion, and I don’t think Ewan has seen it.”

Laura made her way to the library door. She’d mentioned the matter of clothing only as an excuse to leave the room and formulate her thoughts. She doubted whether her choice of gown would be foremost in Ewan’s mind once she broached the subject of marriage and the adoption of Kathleen’s child. If only she had a little longer to contemplate the proper way to handle this matter. Then again, there was no proper way. Etiquette books simply did not give instructions on how a woman should propose to a man!

L
aura stood in stunned silence when the maid escorted Ewan and Hugh into the parlor. Ewan’s sheepish look revealed his discomfort over the situation. Hugh hadn’t been invited to dinner, and his appearance was completely unexpected.

Catherine hesitated for a moment and glanced toward the upper hallway. Mrs. Woodfield hadn’t yet come downstairs, and the maid was obviously flummoxed over the appearance of an extra dinner guest. “Shall I set an extra place for dinner?” Her gaze traveled between Laura and Mr. Crothers.

Hugh didn’t wait for Laura to respond. “Why thank you. I’d be pleased to join you for supper. I have some exciting news to share with the ladies, and enjoying a good meal will make it all the better.”

Catherine glanced at Laura and shrugged. Laura knew the maid would do her best to stretch the meal. She’d learned to serve smaller portions to the ladies when an unexpected guest arrived. Still, Laura didn’t understand why Ewan hadn’t sent one of the girls over to the house to let them know in advance. Or why Hugh hadn’t sent a note, for that matter.

For the past two hours, she’d been rehearsing what she would say to Ewan. But with Hugh present, it would likely be impossible. Now that she’d finally gathered her courage and prepared her speech, she found Hugh’s appearance annoying.

Laura gestured for the men to be seated as she sat down in a chair facing the stairway. “I can’t imagine what is of such importance that you believed it necessary to join us for dinner, Mr. Crothers.”

Hugh guffawed. “Is that a polite way of saying you’re unhappy I appeared uninvited, Miss Woodfield?”

Heat climbed up Laura’s neck. “I wouldn’t go so far as to say I’m unhappy. Rather, I would say I was taken aback. Since we live in such close proximity, I merely assumed someone would have sent word in advance.”

Hugh bobbed his head. “Aye, that would usually be the way of things, but circumstances worked out in such a way that I have the pleasure of dining with you and your fine mother. When I arrived at Ewan’s house, he was leaving to come here. And since I wanted to share my good news with your mother and you, I decided there was no time like the present.” He leaned back and smiled like a cat that had discovered a bowl of cream.

“Well, I’m pleased to hear it’s good news you have to share with us.” At the sound of her mother’s footfalls on the stairs, Laura glanced toward the hall. “I do believe Mother is going to join us.”

The two men stood as Mrs. Woodfield entered the room. Though her mother quickly recovered, Laura hadn’t missed the fleeting look of disbelief that shone in her eyes when she spotted Hugh. “Isn’t this a surprise! I didn’t realize you were joining us, Hugh.”

“’Tis a bit of a surprise for all of you. I caught Ewan as he was
leaving home to come here and invited myself to come along. I’m not one to often stick me nose in where it isn’t wanted, but I have some news that wouldn’t wait—good news.”

“I’m pleased to hear it’s good news. Did you plan to share it with us now?” Mrs. Woodfield sat down and folded her hands in her lap.

“I’ll share it whenever you’d like, but I was first going to ask about Kathleen. I know it doesn’t appear anyone cares about the girl, but I’m truly sorry that Margaret has taken such a hard position with her sister. I’ve made enough mistakes that I think Margaret should welcome the girl back home, but she’ll not hear of it. I was maybe hoping to see her for a minute or two so’s to cheer her a wee bit.”

Mrs. Woodfield’s shoulders stiffened. “After we’ve finished dinner, I’ll ask Kathleen if she’d like to visit with you. If she’s willing, I certainly have no objection.”

Catherine stepped into the parlor and whispered in Mrs. Woodfield’s ear and then disappeared down the hallway. The older woman gestured to the three of them. “Catherine tells me dinner is ready. If you’ll follow me?”

After they had finished the first course, Catherine began to clear their soup bowls. Laura turned her attention to Mr. Crothers. “When you arrived, you said you had some good news to share. I’m eager to hear what it is, Mr. Crothers.”

The older man settled back in his chair. “Glad I am to share this with you before news spreads throughout all of Bartlett.”

Mrs. Woodfield perked to attention. “You’ve piqued my interest, Hugh. Is there something afoot in Bartlett that has slipped by me?”

“I’m sure it has, though you’ll likely be asked to join in the effort very soon.” Hugh tugged on his mustache, obviously enjoying his moment of importance. “You remember that Mr.
Lofton told me about how your husband had helped him and that he’d helped others since that time?”

“Yes, of course I remember.” Mrs. Woodfield leaned back as Catherine placed the serving bowls on the table. “He instructed you to do the same when you had an opportunity.”

“Aye. And that’s what I’m here to tell you. I’m doing me own bit of good to help others.”

“And what might that be, Uncle Hugh?”

“You recall the day I went with ya to the orphans’ home?” When Ewan nodded, Hugh grinned. “Mrs. Tremble walked me through the place, and the building is in a terrible state of disrepair. That frame building has seen better days, and the roof is in terrible shape, as well, so I’ve given me pledge to supply all the bricks to construct the Bartlett Widows and Orphans Home.” He leaned back in his chair and smiled at each of them. “I think it’s the least I can do, since Mr. Lofton was so good to help us with the brickyard.” While Mrs. Woodfield quietly spoke to the maid, Hugh lowered his voice and leaned closer to Ewan. “And maybe it’s me way of making amends to Lyall Montclair, as well.”

“I’m guessing Montclair would rather have his money, but I’m pleased you’re finally acknowledging the error of your ways, Uncle Hugh.”

Mrs. Woodfield returned her focus to Hugh and Ewan. “I’m sorry for my lack of attention, but Catherine requested a bit of instruction.” The maid immediately picked up the platter of roast chicken and passed it to Mr. Crothers, who forked a generous serving onto his plate.

“I must say that I am truly surprised by this news. I’d heard nothing of constructing a new facility that would house both widows and orphans, but I think it is an admirable project. I’m delighted to hear that you’ve offered to donate bricks for the
building. Such a significant gift will surely permit construction to begin in the spring.” She motioned to Catherine, who handed the bowl of potatoes to Hugh. “Have they selected a piece of land or are they hoping someone will step forward and donate the property?”

Hugh spooned a large helping of potatoes onto his plate. “Mrs. Tremble tells me there was a piece of land donated to the orphanage some years ago. It’s located on the edge of town, in walking distance to stores and to the school. I did not see the land for myself.”

“I’m pleased you shared this news with me. I believe our Ladies of the Union group will want to be of help on this endeavor as well. We’ve been looking for projects where we can be of assistance. Who should I contact to offer our help?”

Hugh hesitated a moment. “Josiah Pritchett.”

Laura looked up and met Hugh’s gaze. “Josiah Pritchett? The man who’s running against Winston for the legislature?”

Hugh grinned. “Aye, the very same. I’m thinking it might give him a bit of an edge here in Bartlett, so we’re planning on moving as quickly as possible.” He nudged Ewan’s arm. “Once spring arrives, you may have to keep the lads working overtime on this one,”

“We’ll do what we can, Uncle Hugh, but I wish you would have talked with me first. We already have a lot of orders to fill, orders that will pay our outstanding debts.”

“Let’s don’t be talking business in front of the ladies, Ewan. There’s time for that tomorrow. Right now, I think we need to be pleased at the good that will come from building this home for them that’s in need. I’m even thinking it might be a place where Kathleen might find a bit of work and be able to care for herself and the wee one.”

Mrs. Woodfield poured a dollop of cream into her coffee
and stirred. “I don’t think you need to worry over Kathleen or the baby. We’re happy to have them living with us. I believe she’s already seeking out her own plan for the future. Not that I’m discounting what you’re doing, Mr. Crothers, but I think Kathleen is going to want to do more with her life than clean and cook in a home for widows and orphans, don’t you?”

Hugh grunted. “’Tis honest work and nothing shameful about what I’m suggesting. The home will be a fine place, and it will give the wee one other children to play with. There are many living in much worse circumstances. She could make an honest living and not have to worry about safety for herself or the child.”

Mrs. Woodfield took a sip of her coffee. “That’s true, but Kathleen deserves the opportunity to discover her talents. Of course, the final decision rests with her, but it’s nice to hear that you were thinking of her.”

“I’m not as coldhearted as you might think, Mrs. Woodfield. If it was up to me, Kathleen would still be living under our roof. But the girl is Margaret’s sister, and I agreed to abide by Margaret’s decision. I was thinkin’ that if Kathleen should go to work at the widows and orphans home, maybe Margaret will one day see the error of her ways and bring Kathleen and the child back home.”

“I don’t mean to imply you are coldhearted, Hugh, but from what Kathleen has told me, it doesn’t appear your wife will ever accept her back into the family fold.” Mrs. Woodfield trained her gaze upon Hugh. “To return Kathleen and the child to your home could prove painful for both Kathleen and the child, since your wife has been clear about her position. She believes Kathleen and the child are a blight upon the social status of your family.”

Hugh twirled the end of his mustache. “I will not disagree that Margaret is determined to be accepted into society. I blame her deprived childhood for what you consider improper behavior, and I tend to make allowances where I sometimes shouldn’t. But I must remember that she has had to make allowances for my bad choices, as well.”

Mrs. Woodfield’s shoulders sagged at his rebuttal. “I do not mean to judge you or your wife, Mr. Crothers. That was not my intent. I only wish to see Kathleen and her child have a peaceful and happy life. I do not think that will happen in the Bartlett Widows and Orphans Home, nor do I think it will happen at Crothers Mansion.”

Hugh shrugged. “The girl does not have many choices. I doubt you want her to remain under your roof until she dies of old age.” He arched his brows. “Or do you?”

“I’m pleased to assist Kathleen with her future plans, but I don’t think she will be living here that long.” Mrs. Woodfield gestured toward the parlor. “I can’t ask you to join me for brandy and cigars, gentlemen, but if you’d care to join Laura and me—”

Before Mrs. Woodfield could finish, Hugh pushed away from the table. “You said you’d ask Kathleen about visiting with me. I’d like to see her now if she’s willing.”

“Of course. Why don’t you have a seat in the parlor? I’ll go speak with her.”

Laura escorted the men into the parlor, her discomfort increasing as the minutes slowly ticked by. She grappled to make conversation, but Hugh was more interested in pacing than talking. After Laura’s final attempt to engage Hugh in a polite exchange, Ewan leaned close and whispered, “Please relax. There’s no need to fret.”

She wondered if he would encourage her to relax if he knew
the speech she had planned for him this evening. Even more, she wondered if she would be saved from the embarrassing talk. Maybe Kathleen would want Ewan nearby while Hugh visited with her. Or maybe Kathleen wouldn’t want to see either of them. If that happened, she imagined Hugh would insist the two of them depart. Being rejected by Kathleen would not sit easy with him.

Laura sighed with relief when her mother finally reappeared. Hugh ceased his pacing and crossed the room in several long strides before coming to a halt in front of Mrs. Woodfield. “Well? May I go and visit with Kathleen?”

“She is willing to see you.” When Hugh took a step to the right, Mrs. Woodfield touched his arm. “However, she asked that I be present during your visit.”

Hugh clenched his jaw. “Why is that? Does she think I’ll harm her? She knows I would never do or say anything to intentionally hurt her.”

“She thinks it would be improper to receive you in her condition without another woman present. Surely you understand her delicate condition.”

Hugh grunted. “Delicate? Back in Ireland, the women work until the day their babe is born.”

“But we’re not in Ireland, Mr. Crothers. Do you want to see Kathleen or not?”

“Aye.” Deep ridges creased his forehead. “Lead the way, Mrs. Woodfield.”

Laura’s mother stepped to the doorway, then glanced over her shoulder. “This would be a perfect time for you and Ewan to have your little chat, Laura.”

Laura’s stomach roiled. Why did her mother have to interfere? Broaching the subject would have been much easier without Ewan knowing she had something specific to discuss with him.
Her thoughts scrambled as she attempted to recall her carefully prepared speech.

Ewan turned toward her, his lips curved in an alluring smile. “What is it you want to talk about?”

She swallowed hard, her mind reeling. “Will you marry me?”