Sweet Polly Oliver and the Tomcat Chapter 9

I do not own Hamilton: An American Musical or any of its characters or the song "Sweet Polly Oliver"

Philip Schuyler had been through a lot and he had seen a lot as well. But never in his life had he seen this. He thought that he was hearing things. Had he heard correctly? He looked at his daughter, his Eliza, straight in the eyes. There was a bewildered expression on his face as he did so. He wasn't the only one though; everyone else had been shocked at the request as well. They couldn't believe what they had just heard.

Once again, Eliza was the center of attention. All was quiet but Eliza still had a determined look on her face. She was serious and her father could see that. Everyone could see that, this wasn't a joke. Eliza had meant what she said because it had been in her heart and mind for about a year now. Mr. Schuyler was the first to break the tension.

"Eliza…" he whispered. "Did you…?"

"Father," Eliza replied. "I want to become your son… I want to carry your name and bring honor to this family."

Everyone in the room couldn't believe what they were hearing. Catherine slowly made her way to her husband and daughter with a shocked expression still on her face. Her small hands clenched into fists and she held onto her dress tightly. Mr. Schuyler was glad that he was sitting on a chair already because he was sure that he would have fallen on the ground if he wasn't. After several seconds Mr. Schuyler decided to break the tension once again.

"Elizabeth Schuyler, where did you learn such topics?"

It was rare for her parents to address her by her full name; they only did so when it was serious. And this was serious. Catherine felt like everything she has seen concerning her daughter suddenly was brought back into the light. All of the questions, all of her suspicions and all of her observations… she felt like it was all related to what she had just witnessed right now. And just like before, she couldn't explain it. She didn't know what was going on or what was happening. Catherine placed a hand on Eliza's shoulder.

"What has gotten into you Eliza?" Catherine questioned.

"I am fine Mother," Eliza stated. "I've been fine this whole time."

Mr. Schuyler looked at her with a puzzled expression.

"This whole time?" Mr. Schuyler asked. "What do you mean by that Eliza?"

Eliza turned to look at her father and she felt a little nervous over what she was about to say. She had to tell him the truth; she knew she had to if her plan was to work. And so with a heavy heart and stomach full of tension, she spoke.

"Father, about a year ago… I overheard you talking to our relatives," Eliza admitted.

Out of all the people in the room, the only one who truly understood Eliza in that moment was little Maria Lewis. She suddenly recalled the time when her friend and her were in the closet, back when they were playing hide and seek with the other Schuyler sisters and Mr. Schuyler. She remembered the sad look on her friend's face when she talked about her uncle and his harsh words. She now finally understood where she had heard those harsh words from; she couldn't believe that Eliza had carried that burden in her heart for such a long time. It made her own heart ache and in that moment she swore that she would devote her life to her dear friend. Even though she may have been a child, she knew she wanted that.

Meanwhile, Eliza waited for the scolding, she knew that she wasn't even supposed to be listening that day but it just happened. She didn't mean for it to happen but it did anyway. But surprisingly the scolding never came. Instead Mr. Schuyler struggled to find the right words.

"W-what?" her father stuttered. "What day was this?"

Eliza let out a small sigh, here it comes. She had to tell him… all of them.

"The day not too long after Grandmother's funeral," Eliza answered. "When Uncle Richard, Uncle Mason, Uncle Gerald and Aunt Hattie came here… and you were all in your office. You told no one to disturb you."

Her father's brown eyes widen and a look of horror appeared on his face. It was an expression the Schuyler sisters had never seen before in their lives.

"How much did you hear?

Eliza was hesitant to answer but she knew she had to, there was no use of trying to hide anything at this point.

"Everything," Eliza stated.

If Mr. Schuyler didn't look horrified before, he certainly did now. Words could not begin to describe the mixed emotions he was feeling at the moment. Sadness, because his daughter had heard all the terrible comments Richard had made about her and her sisters. Frustration, because she didn't listen to his demands that day. Helpless, because in the end he couldn't shield his daughters from the Schuyler relatives. And confused, because he had no idea what his daughter was planning.

"Oh dear Lord," Mr. Schuyler gasped as he covered his face.

His expression was now full of shame. He felt ashamed of himself, in the end what he had worked so hard to prevent ended up coming back at him anyway. Gently and slowly he took Eliza off his lap and walked over to the drawer of the room. Once he was there he held onto it like he couldn't support his weight any furtherer, it looked like the entire just crumbled on top of him. His shoulders were tensed and his back and head were bowed in shame. Catherine's expression was now filled with worry, she walked over to him and once she was there she placed a gentle hand on his back. Then she placed both of her hands on his shoulders and massaged them a little. After a while, the two started whispering something to each other. Something that was only meant for their ears.

Eliza just stood there, watching her parents. She wished she knew what they were thinking at the moment. Heck, she wished she could hear what they were saying right now. She felt her heart fill with guilt over what she had just said, she felt like a failure right there. She felt as if her attempt to help her father and preserve this family's legacy was in vain. Maybe this wasn't a good idea after all. Maybe she should just forget about it and just live her life the way it was meant to be. Become an obedient girl, learn etiquette, dress in dresses with her hair loose with bows, practice with cosmetics and marry a man who would uphold her family name through his own prominent lineage.

But then she remembered that's exactly what was expected out of her. That's what Richard, Jane, Gerald and Hattie thought she was capable of. They all looked down on her because she wasn't a boy nor she was the eldest. They all wanted her to become someone she didn't want to be, someone that she couldn't see herself as. Throughout her life Eliza Schuyler had never been too careful nor had she been too fragile either. Everyone knew her as a kind girl who followed her heart. At least that's what her grandmother always used to comment about her. Dear Cornelia, she always thought the best of her grandchildren and she was never afraid to remind them of their greatness.

Angelica, always taking a stand and always acting like a protector to those she cared for.

Eliza, in possession of a kind heart and who always followed it no matter what others told her.

Peggy, her wit always shining through and childish innocence that needed to be cherished.

Well, right now that kind heart was at work. Eliza always had the reputation of putting others before herself and this was no different. She shook her head and a look of determination returned to her face. No, she wouldn't do it. She wouldn't conform to their beliefs; they were wrong even if they would never admit it. She would prove it to them and she would make them all see that she wasn't a pawn. She was her own person and she deserved to be treated as such. Just like how her sisters should be free to live their lives. She had to follow her sisters' footsteps by taking a stand and by using her wit. She had to do this, she wanted to do this.

"Father, Mother," she addressed.

The Schuyler parents heard their daughter's voice, the same daughter that desired such a strange request. Mr. Schuyler and Catherine slowly turned around and that was when they were greeted by the sight of their middle daughter. And that's not all; they remembered that they weren't the only ones who bore witness to this. River, Susanna, Maria, Angelica and Peggy were still standing in their places. They looked as if they were stunned by the event taking place, too stunned to even say anything. But Eliza stood her ground and she spoke once again.

"Hear me out Father," Eliza said. "Please."

Mr. Schuyler had a rugged expression on his face, he looked at his daughter. Catherine continued to hold onto him as he stared at their daughter.

"Eliza," he simply stated. "I am so sorry for what you heard."

Despite her determination, Eliza felt her heart break a little when she heard that. She couldn't believe that's what her father cared the most about this situation. He didn't care that she eavesdropped on his conversation; instead he was upset that she had done so because he didn't want her to hear the words spoken that day. He was sad that his daughter had witnessed the arguing going on between the Schuyler relatives. In the end her father had just wanted to protect her, why hadn't she realized that before? Well it was too late to turn back now.

"It's not your fault Father," Eliza quickly replied. "I should have listened to you… but I saw how sad you were that day, I thought that maybe I could do something to help."

Despite the tension, Mr. Schuyler and Catherine couldn't help but smile over their daughter's kindness. As stated before, Eliza always thought of others before herself. However, they had to remember the situation they were in.

"Oh Eliza," Mr. Schuyler stated. "Have you really been thinking about this the whole time?"

Eliza merely nodded her head, that was when Angelica and Peggy walked over to her. Her two sisters finally understood why their sister had seemed so different lately. They were just sad that they didn't do anything about it sooner. Angelica held one hand while Peggy took the other. Eliza smiled and she thanked them for the comfort, that was when she turned her attention back to their parents.

"I know that it seems strange," Eliza stated. "I am well aware of that… and I know that there will be many challenges ahead if I do this, but it means putting all of this family's tensions at rest then I will do it."

"Eliza, what you are asking for simply cannot be done and you shouldn't concern yourself with such matters," Mr. Schuyler replied. "That is something I have to worry about, not you or your sisters."

"But I'm a Schuyler too!" Eliza argued. "I belong to this family just as much as you; doesn't that make me responsible for this family's legacy as well?"

Mr. Schuyler couldn't believe that he was actually arguing with a five year old and with his daughter no less. And much like his late mother, she had an answer to everything. Or at least she could hold her own in an argument. He didn't know whether or not that was a good thing or a bad thing. Well, in case he guessed that it was a bad thing. The last thing he expected to do today for his daughter's birthday was get into an argument with her. And for some reason he felt like he was losing.

"Eliza you are only a child," Mr. Schuyler retorted. "I apologize for what you heard before but that does not mean that you have to take it to heart."

"He's right dear," Catherine added. "Whatever your uncles and aunts have to say is none of your concern; let your father handle it."

"But Mother, you don't understand," Eliza said. "They're right; this family's honor needs to be sustained. Father, it's time to take a stand and to rise up."

That was another thing that the Schuyler couple didn't expect to hear today. Mr. Schuyler knelt down to his daughter and placed his hands on their shoulders. What could he do to make his beloved daughter understand that she couldn't do this?

"Eliza," he started. "Elizabeth, even we went through with such a complex plan there's no guarantee that people will believe it. The public and the Schuyler family are aware that your mother and I only had three daughters, never a son."

Catherine leaned next to her husband and looked at her daughter.

"Indeed, everyone will grow suspicious over the fact that we had a son that never showed himself to the public," Catherine said. "And then we would have to explain why one of our daughters is never seen anymore. Can you imagine what will happen then?"

Eliza knew that there could be repercussions to her plan; there was no such thing as a perfect plan. She knew that if the public found out about her secret, she would be disgraced as well as her family. They would be shunned for going along with her plan and for not "raising" her correctly. If that happened everything she would have worked for would have been in vain and she would have caused more problems rather than fixing them. But then there was a chance that she could secure her father's legacy as well. She could bring honor to her family, out of everything in the world that was what she wanted the most. But then again, she took into consideration what they were saying. They were right as well; she couldn't be in two places at once. She couldn't be both a daughter and a son at the same time. If that was the case then everyone would find out and then the shaming would begin. She couldn't let that happen, there had to be a way.

Maria stood by her parents and she watched her friend. Out of everyone in the room it seemed like Maria was the only one who knew what laid within Eliza's heart. Maria finally realized that. She might have not known too much but she knew more than everyone else. And more importantly, she understood why Eliza did. She knew why Eliza felt like the weight of the world was on her shoulders. So far she admired her friend for standing up for what she believed in, but right now she seemed to have lost some hope. She couldn't stand by anymore. Maria took in a deep breath and spoke.

"Which is why I will help," Maria suddenly spoke.

Susanna and River gasped a little at their daughter's sudden interruption. But they didn't have time to respond as Maria made her way to the Schuyler family. Once she was there stood right beside Eliza. Maria looked at Eliza with the same determination in her eyes. Maria then turned to Mr. Schuyler.

"I will help Eliza," Maria stated.

Eliza's eyes widen a little; she certainly didn't plan on this. But Maria simply smiled at her and she continued to speak.

"Eliza is my friend and she's right, it's time to take a stand," Maria said. "It's time to rise up."

"And how do you plan on doing that Maria?" Mr. Schuyler asked. "This is plan is already absurd enough as it is, but you don't have to be a part of it. Both you and Eliza should know better."

"That's right Maria, you can't be serious about this," Susanna stated.

"Maria, listen to your mother and Mr. Schuyler," River added. "What you both want to do is just too preposterous."

But little Maria Lewis wasn't deterred; she ignored her parents and Mr. Schuyler. She wanted to support her friend in her moment of need. She knew that the Schuyler family had done the same for her own several times already. It was because of Catherine that her mother had her job right now and it was because of Mr. Schuyler that her father was able to find work. Not to mention they were more than happy to help them out in their times of need. She owed them, and as a result she also owed their daughters. She was indebted to them because they were her friends, the first ones she's ever had. They didn't look down upon her because of her lower status and they didn't mock her for her personality and family. Instead, they embraced her and accepted her as one of their own. Well, today was the day she would pay back her debt to the Schuyler family. And so with she told them her plan.

"Eliza will become your son and I will become your daughter," Maria responded. "I will take Eliza's place."

Susanna looked like she had just seen a ghost, her expression proved that. It took a lot for her not to yell or faint. River stood by his wife and he held her in place. After several seconds, she regained her composure and walked over to her.

"Maria!" Susanna exclaimed. "Certainly not, both of you are too young to do something like this."

That was when Catherine spoke.

"I'm sorry Maria, but your mother is right," Catherine added. "You and Eliza are just children; this is something that goes beyond your understanding."

Suddenly a familiar voice decided to speak.

"But isn't that what the Schuyler family has based their legacy on?" Angelica questioned.

Everyone turned to look at the eldest Schuyler sister. Now Angelica was the center of attention, she smiled and placed a hand on her sister's back. Eliza looked at the elder sister with a surprised look. Angelica just continue to smile, she gave her younger sister a reassuring pat. She could tell that Eliza was shocked over the sudden action especially when she thought that her sisters wouldn't have supported it. Even though her sisters were always by her side when she needed them, she didn't think they would do so for this moment. She didn't think that they would understand. But little did she know, Angelica was more than happy to support her sister just like Maria was.

Being born the eldest wasn't as easy as some people made it out to be. Sure, it did come with its glamour such as the praises and the position but that didn't mean that she let it go to her head. She took her role as the eldest child very seriously. As the eldest child she was responsible for her younger siblings. It was her job to protect them and to make sure that they were happy. And to hear that her relatives reduced her sister to this state made her angry. She never liked to see her sisters unhappy, their happiness was her happiness.

Another thing she knew was that, as the eldest, it was her responsibility to uphold the family's name as well. Even though she wasn't a boy she still had this duty. That too wasn't easy, Angelica was well aware of what fate awaited her in the future. To marry a prominent man, have children with him and uphold her family's legacy and name. That was expected out of her. And yet she felt as if there was more to life than that. Sure she wanted to get married and have a family but she wanted to choose that for herself rather than having someone else choose it for her.

That's what the Schuyler relatives wanted to do with her but she wouldn't let them. She was glad that she had her parents on her side but she knew that even they couldn't keep the others away from her. But to hear that one of her younger sisters wanted to take some of that responsibility made her happy as well. Not because she wanted her to shoulder it entirely, but because she was happy to hear that her sister wanted to continue their father's name. And who was she to deny her such an opportunity?

Even though her sister's plan might sound strange, at the same time it was a plan only her sister could come up with. Something was telling her to go along with it, call it a sister's intuition. And so there Angelica Schuyler was, she was standing right beside her sister and their friend. She would always be there for Eliza no matter what. And if this was a trial to test her loyalty and love then she would do it.

"With all due respect Father and Mother but Eliza has a point" Angelica stated. "If our relatives are making a big fuss over a matter such as this, then they wouldn't give up so easily. They'll continue to throw all of their criticisms in our faces; they'll look down upon us like we're some common specs of dirt."

Mr. Schuyler and Catherine were about to argue with her but Angelica beat them to the punch. This time she took her sister's hand into her own and gave it a gentle squeeze. Eliza couldn't help but smile at the sudden action.

"And I don't know about you two but I'm sick of always being judged simply because I am your daughter." Angelica added. "I've always known that Uncle Richard and Gerald and Aunt Hattie and Jane have never held us in high regard. They think that we are not capable, that we are simply there to become wives and mothers of the future."

At the next statement Angelica's thoughts wandered to their deceased grandmother. She knew that her beloved grandmother would have wanted her to do this. Her grandmother always did encourage their rebellious dispositions simply because great things could be accomplished with them.

"But they forgot one thing; we are descendants of Cornelia Schuyler nee Van Cortlandt. One of the first women who has overcome the limitations placed on her," Angelica stated. "She was a widow, a wealthy widow, but nonetheless still a widow. She had to make sure his funds were well spent, she raised a child on her own, she never remarried because she respected her husband too much even in death and most important she kept this family together. She supported our mother in her time of need while opening her heart to others, she was never afraid of hard work. Despite being a woman and despite being born in this patriarchal era we live in, she managed to overcome all the odds. And look at her now, she's fondly remembered by not just us but those who knew her as well."

"That's true Daddy," Peggy suddenly joined in. "Grandma was like that. She would be proud of Eliza for taking a… a what did you call it?"

"A stand Peggy," Maria said.

"Taking a stand!" Peggy exclaimed with her small fists in the air. "Grandma would want big sister to take a stand especially against those meanies!"

Mr. Schuyler could never argue whenever his mother was brought up as a topic. He deeply missed her, and looking at his daughters right now reminded him so much of her. He was grateful that each and every one of his daughters had inherited something from her. Then again, he would argue that's precisely why they are in this current predicament. He let out a sigh and he stood up from his kneeling position, Catherine followed suit. That was when he walked away from his family and Maria. On the desk was a bottle of whiskey and a small glass. He poured a small amount of the contents into the class and he quickly drank it. Mr. Schuyler was normally not a drinking man but right now he needed something to calm his nerves. He poured another glass and drank it as well.

He didn't know what to say. What could he say? He now knew that no matter how hard he tried at this point that it would be in vain. He couldn't convince the girls that this was a bad idea. He found it ironic and somewhat comedic that he lost an argument to a bunch of little girls. His wife stood by his side and she gave him a worried look, he quickly smiled at her but he still didn't look at the girls. He let out another sigh; he needed to take a break.

"Girls," he addressed. "It's late, time for bed."

"But Father-" Eliza started.

"Eliza listen to your father," Catherine interrupted. "I think after all that has happen today, we all need a break."

Mr. Schuyler smiled a little at his wife's comment, even when he didn't speak she knew what he was saying. But it was true no matter who said it, he needed time to think. And pray as well. That was when Susanna walked forward and she placed her hands on her daughter's shoulders.

"That's right young mistress," Susanna added. "It's late; Maria and all of you should be in bed right now."

And the River spoke.

"I have to agree with your mother Maria," River said. "Let us go, the Schuylers need to rest after the long day they've had."

As much as Maria wanted to argue, she couldn't deny that she was feeling a little drowsy. She even yawned a little. It was late, she couldn't deny that. She then turned to Eliza. Eliza had the same defeated look on her face along with the other two Schuyler sisters. They all silently agreed that they all needed their rest. And besides, they didn't feel like they didn't accomplish anything. If anything they were able to lay out their case to the Schuyler patriarch. At least he now knew what Eliza was thinking and that the other girls supported her. That's what was important.

"Alright Mama," Maria said. "Let's go home."

With that the Lewis couple took their daughter and started to walk out of the room. But before they left Maria quickly ran to Eliza and hugged her. Eliza was surprised by the sudden action but she accepted it. Maria then whispered something into Eliza's ear as she did so.

"No matter what happens I will always be by your side," she whispered. "Never forget that."

Eliza smiled a little before Maria let go and she hugged the other Schuyler sisters as well. Maria whispered something into each of their ears as well. Eliza could hear it but the adults didn't seem to. That was when Maria did a small curtsy before saying her goodbyes; she then walked back to her parents. River took her into his arms and she leaned into his shoulders, her eyes fluttered a little as she relaxed. Susanna and River had their goodbyes to the Schuyler family as well. With that the Lewis family took their leave and headed out the door. And now the Schuyler family was left alone.

"Let's go to bed my dears," Catherine said. "I'll help you get ready."

Catherine held Peggy and she motioned for the other girls to follow her. They left Mr. Schuyler alone in the room. Eliza wanted to say more to her father but she knew that he needed to let the idea sink in before answering to her request. She understood that much. Either way she hoped that he would accept it. And so she walked out with her mother and sisters.

Mr. Schuyler was now alone, he needed time. He had to think. He was tempted to take another shot of whiskey but he shook his head. If he was going to think then he needed his head to be as clear as possible. He placed the cap back into the bottle and walked away from the desk. He needed some advice, but who could he turn to at this point? He would have to have a talk to his wife later but he needed advice now. There was one person he always went to during times like this but she was no longer here. But still, he had to try. He got on his knees and held his hands together.

"Mother," he said. "Dear Cornelia Van Cortlandt, I need your help. My daughter, my Eliza, had presented me with a strange request for her birthday. And that's not all; she heard everything that was said about the Schuyler legacy."

No matter how hard he tried he couldn't let the feelings of guilt go away. He never wanted any of his children to hear such negative things about them. The only silver lining he saw in that was that Eliza had heard Mason's support for her and her sisters. He was grateful for that at least but it still didn't make the guilt go away. He felt like a fool for not putting the pieces together sooner. He should have known that was the reason for Eliza's change in disposition. How could he be so blind to his own daughter's hidden turmoil? But now everything had sense. Hearing those words made his daughter determined to go against them. They were the reason why he was able to see the hidden skills that laid within his child.

"I need guidance Mother," he stated. "This request is just so absurd. Nothing like this had ever been done before. And if she gets caught? It's not this family's honor that I am worried about, it's her honor. If anyone found out then she would be disgraced."

He couldn't let that happen to his child. Even with his connections his daughter would be shamed. And then there was the fact that Eliza was still just a child, a mature child yes, but still a child. She didn't know everything about the world outside the mansion. The people would not be as accepting as his wife and him or Mason and his family or Susanna and River. But if Eliza had been thinking about this for a while now then what was to stop her from thinking about in the future. He knew his Eliza and he knew that much like his mother she wouldn't let this go.

"What am I to do Mother?" he questioned. "Give me a sign on what should I do. Please, I need you now more than ever Mother… give me a sign."

He bowed his head to the floor to show how serious he was and he hoped that his prayers would be heard somehow. That was when he slowly got off the floor and walked out of the room. As soon as he stepped out he saw that the rooms were as clean as they could be thanks to the servants. They were still working when he decided to excuse them for the night. They all left and that was when Mr. Schuyler made his way to his bedroom, he knew that his daughters were in bed by now. And he was soon proven to be correct when he saw his wife waiting for him in their bedroom. She was dressed in her night clothes and had her hair down, it fell down on her shoulders. Despite bearing three children Catherine still managed to retain her youth, Mr. Schuyler always joked that it was because she smiled so much. Her eyes welcomed him to their bedroom. He then got dressed in the washroom of their shared room before making his way to their bed. Once he got under the covers his wife hugged him. He hugged her back and said one last thing before allowing sleep to take him.

"We'll discuss this tomorrow," he stated.

"I understand," she replied. "Goodnight my love."

"Goodnight my dear wife," he replied.

With that the Schuyler couple fell asleep while still holding onto each other. Catherine worried a little but she knew that somehow things would work out. At least Lucille told her so before she left, she wanted to believe that. And so, she allowed herself to dream.

It only took several minutes before Mr. Schuyler entered into a deep slumber and he started to dream.


He dreamed that he was in a large field of lush green grass. The sunshine hit his face and it decorated the field as well. He didn't know why he was here but something told him to walk through the field. He walked and that was when he heard a familiar sound.

He looked up to see a new figure standing before him. The person was sitting on top of a horse and was wearing a uniform similar to his military one. However, he couldn't see the person's face nor could he see what kind of horse the person was riding on. But he did find himself in awe over the person. Whoever they were, they possessed a proud form. It reminded him so much of his father; in fact he had a portrait of him sitting on a horse in his office. But the figure was noticeable smaller and somewhat thinner as well. On instinct and out of curiosity he spoke to the figure.

"Who are you?"

However, the figure didn't answer and instead titled its head a little. It looked as if the figure was looking behind him, he decided to turn around and his eyes widen once he saw what the figure was looking at. It was none other than Cornelia herself. She looked the same as she did when she died and yet she was still so full of life. A gentle smile was on her face as she stared at her son and the figure. Mr. Schuyler could feel tears well up in his eyes as she saw his mother.

"Hello Philip," she spoke as she opened her arms. "Don't I get a hug?"

Nothing else needed to be said as Mr. Schuyler ran to his mother. He entered into her arms and hugged her tightly. He knew that deep down this wasn't real but at the same time he didn't care. He needed this. Cornelia hugged her son back, his height towering over her a little.

"Oh Mother I've missed you so."

"I know my dear but this isn't about me," Cornelia said. "This is about you and your family."

Mr. Schuyler nodded his head and he hugged his mother tighter.

"I'm just so confused," Mr. Schuyler stated. "I don't know what to do anymore. Richard, Jane, Gerald and Hattie are all pressuring me to give the Schuyler family a son… but nothing I've done has worked. They just won't let the matter go."

"Richard was always a stubborn one and a very prideful person. Having too much pride can become a one's hubris. Gerald has always been a follower ever since he was young. Always being the follower and never the leader can be have dreadful consequences," Cornelia explained. "You my son have always had pride for the right reasons. The pride for your family is the best example And you have always taken the lead when it comes to matters. Your time as a general is proof of that."

Mr. Schuyler let go a little but still held on as he looked his mother straight in the eyes.

"I don't want my children to become pawns in this twisted game of theirs. I just want Angelica, Eliza and Peggy to be happy. Is that so wrong?"

"Of course not my child, from the moment they were born you have wanted nothing but the best for them. Do not feel ashamed because someone is questioning your parenting skills. Never let them make you feel like a failure Philip," she said. "You are a good father and a good husband. I know that your family would agree to that."

Despite the hidden turmoil he was going through, Mr. Schuyler couldn't help but smile a little at her comment.

"Speaking of my family… my dear Eliza, your granddaughter, has made a strange request to me for her birthday. She wants to become my son in order to carry on the Schuyler name."

"And what's so wrong about that? You know Eliza had always been a strong young girl, one that always follows her heart and thinks of others before herself."

"I know, she got that from you." Mr. Schuyler commented.

Cornelia smiled and giggled a little, even her laughs sounded like they belonged to a younger woman.

"And from you and your wife," Cornelia added.

Mr. Schuyler's smile grew a little more but it quickly disappeared.

"But she's so young, she has much to learn about the outside world," he argued. "What does she know about being a boy or growing up to become a man?"

"And that's where you come in my dear," Cornelia responded. "Eliza may be young and she may have a lot to learn but she also has a lot to give as well. You can teach her all that she needs to know, you and Catherine can do so. After all, isn't that the job of a parent?"

"Mother, are you actually supporting Eliza's plan?" he asked. "There are so many things that can go wrong! It can leave a negative impact on Eliza!"

"True but it can also have a positive impact on her and future generations, generations outside of the Schuyler family," Cornelia stated. "Her actions can set a strong foundation for the future; you know how her sisters and her have always been the rebellious type."

Mr. Schuyler about to argue with her some more when he heard the neighing of a horse. He turned around to see the figure standing tall as the horse stood the back of its legs. The horse was letting out a proud and strong cry as was the rider. It was a marvelous sight to behold.

"Look closer and harder," Cornelia said. "Don't look with just your eyes, but with your heart."

Mr. Schuyler didn't know what to think about that statement but he listened to his mother's words. He looked closely and tried to see what she was talking about. He looked closely at the rider, suddenly yet slowly the person's face started to appear. And his eyes widen as she finally realized who it was.

She was older and she was dressed in different attire but he knew who it was. How could he not? He stood by his wife's side as she gave birth to her. It was his Eliza, his Elizabeth Schuyler. There is daughter was, she was riding on a horse in his attire. Her hair was pulled back and her eyes were full of determination. A smile decorated her face as she held onto the reigns of the horse. He looked at the horse to see that it was a familiar looking one as well. It was Cornelia, the little Appaloosa filly. That was when his daughter reached into her coat and pulled out a thin sword, it resembled one of his own that he used during the battles he participated in. That was when she let out a battle cry and she rode away with Cornelia.

"Eliza!" he called out.

But his daughter ignored him as she continued to ride on Cornelia; they traveled through the field of grass until they disappeared. Mr. Schuyler was left in awe over what just happened. He couldn't believe what he had just seen. And that was when Cornelia spoke.

"You know everything will be alright."

With that Cornelia started to fade away and the environment started to change as well, he knew that it was coming to an end.


That was when his eyes opened and he was in bed with his wife once again. Thankfully she was still sleeping and he let out a sigh of relief. He looked up at the ceiling and contemplated what he should do. It seemed like even in death his mother agreed with his daughter's actions. He covered his eyes with his arm and thought about his mother and father. They always fought for what they believed in… just like his daughters. Just like Eliza.

And with that his mind was made up.

He hoped that he was making the right choice; he hoped that this would be the right thing to do. He said a silent prayer to his mother and he thanked for her. Now all he had to do was talk to Eliza, the girls, his wife… and his relatives. He fell back asleep and he continued to hold onto his wife.

The next morning the Schuyler couple went on with their day as if nothing had happened. Not even the Schuyler sisters had anything to say. They all just waited; it was like they were waiting for one or the other to make the first move. However, during this time the Schuyler couple would excuse themselves for a little while just to talk in Mr. Schuyler's office. They never spoke about what was said in there but whatever it was the Schuyler sisters could see that it left an impact on them. As the days went by Eliza found herself growing more and more impatient. A part of her wanted to ask them but another part of her restrained her from doing so. She supposed she would just have to wait for it like the others.

About a week later the Schuyler couple asked not to be disturbed as they spoke to each other in Mr. Schuyler's office. They wanted to be alone in order to properly discuss the matter. The Schuyler sisters were alone with their caretaker and her daughter. They were in their room while the Schuyler adults talked. Angelica, Eliza, Peggy and Maria were trying to play but they were distracted by their thoughts. They knew what the Schuyler couple was talking about and Eliza was especially worried about what the results would be.

Seconds turned into minutes and minutes turned into hours. Even Susanna was getting worried at this point, she had never been asked to watch the children alone for this long. She wondered what exactly would be the outcome of the Schuyler conversation. And she also worried for her daughter. Yesterday her child was determined to stand by Eliza's side, so much so that she was willing to become her in order to do so. Susanna could understand how that would be possible.

Maria and Eliza had a similar facial structure and similar features such as hair color and eye color but they were different when it came to skin tones and hair styles. Eliza had light peach skin while Maria had tan skin, Eliza had straight dark brown hair and Maria had wavy dark brown hair. But with a little bit of cosmetics and a wig she could believe that Maria was Eliza. However, she didn't think that anyone else would believe it if that was the case simply because everyone knew that the Schuyler couple didn't have a son or four daughters. Whatever the Schuyler couple was talking about she just hoped that there would be a light at the end of this long and complicated tunnel.

As if on cue the Schuyler couple exited the office and walked to their daughters' room. Immediately they could tell that Catherine had been crying since her eyes were a little red, her face was a light shade of pink and her hair was a little disheveled. Mr. Schuyler has his arm wrapped around her and it looked like he had done some crying of his own since his eyes were a similar color to his wife. But despite that there was a small smile on his face on he walked over to his middle daughter with his wife following him. He let of her and he kneeled down to his daughter. Eliza stood up from her spot and looked at him with concerned eyes. His smile still remained as he took his daughter's hands into his own.

"Eliza," he addressed. "I've thought about your request."

Eliza felt her heart skip a beat and a cold shiver ran down her spine. This was the moment, the moment she had been waiting for this whole time. She wondered what exactly her father had to say to her.

"Eliza, do you really want to do this?" he asked.

Eliza knew what her answer was even before he asked, and deep down he knew the answer as well. Eliza gave him a determined look.

"More than anything in the world," Eliza responded.

Mr. Schuyler gave her a small smile and he simply nodded his head.

"Alright then," Mr. Schuyler said. "You have my blessing, my little Elizabeth Schuyler."

Eliza felt like her heart had stopped but this time it was out of joy rather than anxiety. She had done it! She actually managed to convince her father than this was a good idea. She had never been happier before in her life. She jumped into her father's arms with a big smile on her face. Mr. Schuyler laughed a little as she did so. As he hugged his daughter he looked at Maria.

Maria had a surprised look on her face as Mr. Schuyler; she wondered what he said to say to her now. She had approved of Eliza's idea but it wasn't official until he told her as well. And then she had to get her parents approval too.

"Maria Lewis," he addressed.

"Yes Mr. Schuyler?" Maria asked.

"Would you do me the honor of becoming my daughter?" he questioned.

Maria felt the same joy her friend felt at the moment. It had worked! She was happy that would be able to help her friend, she wanted to stay by her side and now she had the opportunity to do so. That was when she was reminded of her mother; she turned to look at her. She put on her best pleading look and held her hands close to her chest.

"Mama," Maria stated. "This is something I have to do."

Susanna couldn't believe what she was hearing. Her employer and now her daughter had wanted to go along with this idea. She was worried of course. There were so many things that could go wrong. Not to mention Maria had a lot to learn about being a Schuyler. As much as she loved her daughter she wasn't sure that her daughter could handle that. But the look her daughter was giving her was just too hard to say no to. Maria wanted to do this and she couldn't deny that Maria and Eliza had a special bond. There was something about the two girls that was eye catching. They could have been sisters if it wasn't for the obvious facts. That was when Mr. Schuyler spoke.

"I understand your concerns Susanna," he said. "But I promise you that Maria will be in good hands. You will still be able to take her home but she would have to be present in public outings and events. Of course I will take care of all of her needs. She will be provided with the appropriate clothes, lessons in etiquette and housing whenever it is necessary. I will also pay you and your husband for your troubles."

Susanna was about to argue when her daughter suddenly dropped down onto her knees. Maria was bowing before her mother.

"Please Mama," Maria stated. "Please let me do this, I want to do this. Eliza needs me."

"Oh Maria," she whispered.

Susanna bent down and took her daughter into her arms. She had never seen her daughter so desperate before. Maria still had her pleading look as she looked at her mother. Susanna didn't like seeing her daughter like this. Was she so desperate to help Eliza had she was willing to literally beg on her knees to do so? How could she say no to this?

"Maria Lewis," she said. "You have my blessing but if you're going to be a Schuyler then you must always hold yourself with pride."

At that Maria wrapped her arms around her mother's neck. Susanna smiled as she placed gentle kisses on her head. Susanna looked at her employer and his wife.

"It's a deal Mr. Schuyler," she said. "But you must promise me that you will take care of my daughter and treat her with respect. I also want you to promise this to River."

"I promise Susanna Lewis," Mr. Schuyler responded. "You and your husband have my word and the word of Catherine."

Susanna smiled as she wiped away the tears that began to form in her eyes. Maria nuzzled her face into her mother's neck as a result. Susanna laughed a little as she placed another kiss on Maria's forehead. Happy the matter was settled, Mr. Schuyler turned his attention back to Eliza.

"Your mother has something to say as well," Mr. Schuyler stated.

That was when the two turned to Catherine. As much as she wanted to argue she just couldn't ruin her daughter's happiness. She could see it in her daughter's eyes, Eliza wanted this. The constant conversations she had been having with her husband this week presented a lot of validations but it also presented a lot of oppositions as well. As much as she loved her daughter and as much as she wanted to support her at the same time she worried for her daughter.

Eliza was still so young to set up the path she would take, she felt like her child should get the chance to experience more before making such an important decision. But it seemed like Eliza had her heart set on this and once again she found herself thinking about all of the things her husband had told her. He had told her about the dream he had about his mother and he reminded her about all of good things she was able to witness. She was able to witness Eliza growing into a mature child, why wouldn't she want to see that tiny bud bloom into a beautiful flower. And so, she looked at her husband and daughter. The same determined eyes and bold figure were right before her. How could she deny either of them?

"You have my blessing as well Eliza," Catherine stated.

Eliza then hugged her mother and Catherine held her daughter close to her heart. More tears leaked out of her eyes, she thought that she had done enough crying but it seemed like she was wrong. Catherine loved her daughter and so she would support her… even if she still worried for her. After several seconds of hugging Eliza turned to her sisters to see what they thought about this.

"What about you two?" Eliza questioned.

Angelica scolded her a little but it wasn't an angry scowl but rather a playful scowl. That was when Angelica patted her sister's head and gave her a reassuring look.

"What about us?" Angelica asked. "You know you'll always have me and Peggy."

"You bet!" Peggy cheered. "Go for it big sister!"

The Schuyler sisters then embraced each other in a big hug and that was when they motioned for Maria to come join them… because Maria was now officially a Schuyler sister. Angelica and Peggy were especially excited because now it felt like they had another sister. Eliza was excited as well, now she was as close to her friend as she could be. Her friend was now a part of her family, she was her sister now. What more could she want at this point?

And now all that was left was to convince the Schuyler relatives. Eliza didn't know what to think of that but she would wait to see what would happen. The date for Mr. Schuyler's decision was just a short time away.

XXX

Time quickly passed and the day finally came.

The Schuyler relatives were greeted at the front gates of the Schuyler mansion as their carriages entered the property. One by one they exited their carriages; once again Lucille and Jane would be present for their conversation. Angelica and Peggy were entrusted with another caretaker while Eliza and Maria were sitting outside with Susanna. Mr. Schuyler and Catherine were inside his office with the rest of the Schuyler family. Eliza and Maria waited patiently for them to be called but for now they listened to the conversation taking place. The door wasn't fully closed so they could hear everything. Eliza couldn't help but recall the time she first did something like this. It was the day that would shape her future. Only this time she had the support of her parents, sisters and friends. She just hoped that the others would do so as well. She heard her father's voice speak.

"I have made my decision," Mr. Schuyler declared.

"I hope that it's the right one," Richard replied.

Mr. Schuyler turned to his cousin with a confident look on his face. Richard had seen that look before, it was when they were still young and in the military. It was also on his face the day Mr. Schuyler became a general. Either way he couldn't stand it.

"I think you'll find my decision to be quite unexpected Richard," Mr. Schuyler said.

Richard glared at him a little.

"How so?" he questioned.

"I will have a son," Mr. Schuyler stated.

Gasps erupted from Gerald and Hattie and Jane, they were shocked at what they just heard. Even Richard looked shocked but he was good at hiding it. His eyes were a little wide and his lips were firmly pressed together. His grip on his cane tighten a little as well. But he quickly regained his composure; he couldn't help but feel a little proud as well. His cousin had finally relented and gave into his demands. He felt a deep sense of victory over that. That was when his other cousin Gerald spoke.

"Catherine have you agreed to this?" Gerald questioned.

A small smile appeared on her face, a part of her felt a little happy over the small twist that was about to be revealed.

"Yes, I agree with my husband," she responded. "Philip and I will have a son."

"Well it's about time," Richard commented. "You both have finally seen the error of your ways and are going to do what is best for this family."

"Richard is right, the Schuyler family needs this," Gerald added.

"In the end all the matters is this family's honor," Hattie stated.

"That's right. This family has worked too hard to give it the reputation it deserves, children shouldn't jeopardize that," Jane said.

William and Lucille were the only ones who didn't say anything. They felt a little disappointed over the situation because they still felt like the choice should be up to the children instead of the adults. But they had promised to support them no matter what.

That was when Mr. Schuyler stood up from his seat. He looked at the door and walked over to it.

"In fact I think you should meet my son," Mr. Schuyler stated. "Both my son and my daughter."

Confused looks spread across the Schuyler relatives.

"What nonsense are you spewing out now Philip?" Richard questioned.

"No nonsense dear cousin," Mr. Schuyler answered. "Allow me to introduce you to my son and daughter."

At that he opened the door and motioned for the girls and Susanna to come in. One by one they entered the room and more gasps could be heard.

"Everyone this is my son," Mr. Schuyler stated as she pointed to Eliza and then he pointed to Maria. "And this is my daughter."

An angered look appeared on Richard's face and scowls appeared on the others with the expectation of William and Lucille. In fact William and his wife looked somewhat amused and interested.

"How dare you mock this family's legacy? You've lost your mind!" Richard exclaimed. "You've gone mad!"

"I assure you that my mind is perfectly fine and clear. In fact this is something Eliza herself proposed on her birthday," Mr. Schuyler said. "Eliza wants to become my son. And this girl, Maria Lewis, wants to take her place as my daughter."

"What?" Gerald questioned. "Catherine is this true?"

"Yes it is. You see you all aren't the only ones who want to preserve his family's legacy. Eliza wants that as well, she understands how important it is," Catherine replied.

"But she's just a child!" Jane argued. "And does she not understand how ludicrous this is? She is mocking the Schuyler name!"

"She is not!" Mr. Schuyler yelled. "She is making this family proud; she is taking a stand against traditions!"

Eliza smiled at her father's statement and she was happy that he was defending her. Maria smiled at her as well and gave her a reassuring look. Maria wasn't scared of these people; she could care less about what they thought. No matter what was said today nothing could change her mind about this.

"Well I think it's wonderful," William stated. "I'm very happy for you Eliza and you too young one. Miss Maria was it?"

Maria smiled at the kind man and she bowed a little in response.

"Yes sir," she replied. "It's a pleasure to meet you."

"The pleasure is all mine, in fact I remember seeing you at Eliza's birthday party," William said.

"Oh it's good to see that the girls have such a lovely and sweet girl for a friend," Lucile added.

Maria blushed a little at their comments and her mother looked proud as well. That was when Gerald spoke.

"Philip, this is a bad idea. I have heard of women posing as men before just so they could enlist in the army but they were soon discovered and they were disgraced," Gerald stated. "Not only that but their families suffered as well. Now I hope that Eliza isn't interested in joining the army but the point is she can't become a boy. If they punished women for doing that then who knows what they will do to her if anyone ever found out."

Eliza looked interested as Gerald mentioned the army as did Mr. Schuyler. He recalled his dream and he wondered if that was really what fate had in store for his daughter. But he spoke again.

"I am well aware of the possible consequences Gerald but there are many good things that can come out of it as well," Mr. Schuyler said. "My daughter will be setting up the foundation for future generations to come. She is making me and Catherine proud, and I know that my mother and father would be proud as well."

William and Lucille looked happy over the way things were turning out as they both had smiles on their faces. They never thought that something like this would happen in their family but they were more than excited. They saw this as a big step for the Schuyler family and for Eliza as well. That was when Jane spoke.

"And if we actually agreed to this plan then how would you go along with it?" Jane scoffed.

Mr. Schuyler and Catherine turned to the woman with serious looks on their faces.

"Well if you must know Jane, my husband and I plan on teaching Eliza the proper etiquette for a young boy and we will also teach Maria the proper etiquette for a young girl. My husband especially will be in charge of helping Eliza on this journey, he wants this just as much as she does," Catherine explained. "Eliza will be dressed in male's attire when we go out in public and Maria will be dressed in Eliza's attire. And we will also introduce Eliza's new identity to the public very soon."

"What? How?" Hattie asked.

"We will have a debut for my son. We will tell the public that we didn't tell them that we had a son because he is a very sickly child, so much so that he couldn't go out in public. He was born as Eliza's twin brother, that will explain the similarities in appearance and it will explain the same ages. But now that his health is on the road to recovery and we shall have a celebration in his honor," Mr. Schuyler stated. "His name will be Elijah Schuyler because that's the name Catherine and I decided on when she was pregnant with her. Elizabeth for a girl and Elijah for a boy."

Mr. Schuyler then turned to his daughter.

"Is that alright my dear?"

Eliza smiled and she nodded her head. She now had two names assigned to her, one for a girl and one for a boy.

"Yes Father," she replied. "Elijah Schuyler it is."

William and Lucille cooed over the idea while Gerald and Hattie looked confused and Richard and Jane looked disgusted.

"How preposterous!" Jane exclaimed. "This whole idea is ridiculous!"

Gerald nodded his head in agreement.

"I have to agree, it is rather foolish," Gerald stated. "Don't you think so Richard?"

But surprisingly there was no answer; they looked to see that the man was deep in thought. Gerald tried to call out to him again.

Richard was lost in thought. His thoughts were buzzing around like an angry swarm of wasps. He would like nothing more than to slap Mr. Schuyler in order to bring him back to reality. He would also like to scold the young girls for thinking about such a foolish idea. But then a sudden thought occurred to him. He recalled Gerald words and he smiled internally. A sinister smile.

This would be the perfect opportunity to watch his cousin burn. Eliza had given him an opportunity to ruin Philip Schuyler's reputation. He would allow his niece to build up her image as a male and then he would watch it all come crumbling down when her identity was revealed. And if that happened then Philip Schuyler would come crumbling down as well. Yes, that would that be a wonderful sight to behold. He would support this plan and he would go along with it. But only because he wanted to see his cousin's world slowly burn.

"Very well if that's how you feel about it then…," Richard stated and for a moment he hesitated but he continued to speak. "I support this plan."

Another series of shock expressions filled the room, even Mason and Lucille were showing some emotion over it.

"What?" Hattie exclaimed. "Richard you can't be serious!"

"Oh but I am," Richard said. "If this is the only way to preserve the Schuyler name then so be it. I am doing this for the family and its honor. Gerald, Hattie and Jane I feel like you all should support this as well."

Richard stood up from his seat and leveled himself out with his cane. He looked at the two girls for a while before turning back to his cousin.

"Elijah Schuyler will be responsible for upholding this family's honor. I expect her to become a worthy gentlemen and I expect her friend here to become a proper lady as well," Richard stated. "Is that clear?"

Eliza and Maria nodded their heads.

"Yes sir," they answered in unison.

Richard then nodded his own head and started to walk towards the door.

"Let us be on our way Jane, the matter here is settled and there is nothing more to discuss," Richard said.

"Really Richard?" Jane questioned.

"Yes," he replied. "This is something Philip and Catherine have decided upon. They have made their choice and now they will have to live with it."

He literally meant that because he hoped that someday this plan would fail. He wanted to watch it all coming burning down.

"But Richard-" Gerald started.

"Enough Gerald!" Richard interrupted. "This conversation is over."

Gerald quickly backed down and he motioned for his wife to follow him. Hattie stood up from her seat and took her husband's arm. They were prepared to follow Richard even though they were still unsure about the situation. Jane walked over to her husband's side and just before they walked out Richard spoke again.

"You son's debut will occur at Château de Schuyler," Richard suggested.

Château de Schuyler was a castle like property that was owned by Richard, it was his home and the place he shared residence with his wife, sons and servants. He had it as soon as he retired from the army, and as soon as he collected his wealth from both his services and his family. Richard rarely let outsiders enter château, in fact only formal events could take place here. That's how much Richard prized it and how much value he put into it, but many had to agree that it was a grand place to be at. Which is why Mr. Schuyler was surprised that Richard suggested that location.

He had to admit that it was perfect for his son's debut. But Richard wasn't done yet.

"It's the perfect place for a Schuyler to make their debut. We shall do so at the end of this month," Richard added.

"So soon?" Jane questioned.

"The sooner the better," Richard replied. "The world needs to know that Philip Schuyler now has an heir to his name. And I expect to hear how her transition is going along from time to time. I want to make sure that you're not doing anything wrong. You've already made too many mistakes with your daughters and I don't expect you to make those same mistakes with your son."

And that was how Elizabeth "Eliza" Schuyler got the "approval" she needed from her relatives. Now history and the Schuyler family had their eyes on her. It felt so surreal but she had to accept it as her new reality. This was the world she created for herself and now she would have to live with it. She silently prayed to her ancestors to give her strength.

"Excuse us, we should be getting back home," Richard stated. "You better hope that luck is on your side for this Elizabeth… or should I say Elijah?"

Even when he approved Richard still sounded like he was insulting her. But Eliza refused to let him get to her at this point. She finally had what she wanted and she intended to bring honor to it. She wouldn't let people like Richard or the others deter her from her goal. She knew what she wanted and she knew that she wouldn't stop until she got it. With that the two Schuyler couples left but William and Lucille choose to stay behind. They wanted to help in any way they could.


Measurements were taken for both Eliza and Maria. William wanted to be the one to get them made since the process would be a lot quicker. Lucille also wrote down some notes for herself since she also planned on going shopping for the girls. At times like this Eliza was grateful to have William and Lucille for an uncle and aunt. Not too long later the clothes had been delivered; now all that was left was to try them out. And so, Eliza and Maria were in a large room that was intended for outfit preparations. Catherine, Susanna, Angelica and Peggy were there as well while Mr. Schuyler waited in his office.

First it was Maria's turn. Maria was behind a large wall that prevented anyone else from seeing her as she changed. Only Catherine and Susanna were with her. The two women were helping her put on the light blue dress that was designed for her. It was a small dress that exposed her ankles, frills could be seen under the skirt and they also decorated the long sleeves and collar area. Susanna helped wrapped the bow around her waist while Catherine smoothed out the wrinkles. Maria also put on some white stockings along with a pair of white low heel shoes. Once that was done the two women got to work on her makeup and hair.

The Schuyler sisters watched as their mother and Susanna helped Maria with her makeup. They had to thank Lucille for this. Lucille had taken the liberty of sending them some new cosmetics that would be of use, some were exported from England and some were from France. She had Mason's trading company to thank for that. And so Maria sat back as she felt brushes dance on her face. She could feel the makeup being placed upon her and it was somewhat relaxing. However, she wouldn't have to do this every day. But every so often she would have to go out in public so the Schuyler family could keep up the image of Eliza still being there.

After a while they finished with her makeup and moved onto her hair. Maria's hair was long and wavy was combed and combed until there were no tangles or knots. Once that was done they started to tie her hair back into a neat bun, several hair pins were used in order to keep every hair in place and away from her face. Maria took a quick look in the mirror; she could barely recognize herself at this moment. She couldn't wait to see the end results.

After several more hair pins, the two women moved onto the final piece of the attire. Mason had given them a wig that resembled Eliza's hair. It was dark brown, straight and long. The two women gently placed the wig over the young girl's head; its strands fell all around Maria. The two women made sure it was secure and held in place with its hidden straps. Once that was done Catherine started to tie a small piece of the hair back, she had to do this in order to make sure that it had Eliza's a signature hairstyle.

After all that time, they were finally done.

"Go look at yourself my dear," Susanna said.

Maria wasted no time and went to the long mirror of the room. There she was, literally in Eliza's shoes. Her skin was almost similar to that of Eliza's expect it wasn't as pale as hers; it did retain some of her original skin color. And the wig did had a somewhat different appearance but it still matched Eliza's. It was perfect. She let out a small laugh as she danced around in her disguise. She couldn't wait to test it out in public.

Eliza giggled a little as she watched Maria grow accustomed to her new attire. She twirled around and let her new dress and hair flow beside her. Maria smiled and she felt like she had just become closer to Eliza because now she was Eliza. Like she said, she would always be there for her friend no matter what. Eliza needed her to play this part while she played her own part. She would allow herself to become a character in Eliza's narrative even if it meant giving up her identity. After several more seconds she stopped twirling and bowed before Eliza.

"It is an honor to be you Elizabeth Schuyler," Maria stated.

Eliza couldn't help but feel a little bit of pride at that statement and she gave Maria her answer.

"And it is an honor to have a friend like you Maria Lewis," Eliza replied with a small smile.

Maria smiled back and she made her way to her mother. Susanna laughed a little and she hugged her daughter tightly.

"I'm proud of you my little one," Susanna whispered to her.

Maria blushed a little but she smiled as she leaned closer to her mother. They then turned their attention to Eliza. It was now her turn. Catherine seemed to realize that as well since she motioned for her middle daughter to come to her.

"It's now your turn Eliza," Catherine stated.

Eliza slowly stood up and walked over to the dressing part of the room. Susanna and Catherine carefully removed the remnants of her femininity and soon she was being fitted into the new outfit designed for her. One that didn't hold any clues of her being a girl. Her mother and caretaker worked diligently as they placed the new layers of clothes on her.

As they did so, she closed her eyes and pictured how she would look like when this was all over. She wondered if she would look any different than she did before. Then again she would have to settle for looking like a male version of herself. She was grateful that a part of her back story was being born as a twin; she just hoped that everyone else bought it. As soon as all of the pieces of clothing were on her she felt oddly free. She felt as if a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. After several minutes she was finally ready. She walked out of the dressing room but she didn't go to the mirror. She wanted the whole process to be done before she looked at her reflection. All that was left was the hair.

And so, with a heavy heart Eliza walked over to the seat. Her mother stood behind her while her sisters and friends watched from their own seats. She watched as her mother untied her hair and let it run freely. Catherine ran her hands through her hair first and then she took the brush. She used it to comb through any tangles and smoothed it out to the best of her ability. As she did so, Eliza felt herself relaxed into her mother's touch. The hair brushing was stimulating as well as addicting. Catherine smiled as she felt her daughter ease into her touch; she always loved doing things like this with her children. Cornelia especially loved to do things like this when she was still alive. She remembered Cornelia joking one time that she couldn't really do so with Mr. Schuyler since he was a boy and he didn't have hair like a girl's. Catherine chuckled a little at that memory but she kept brushing until she felt that it was enough. Her face dropped a little though since she remembered why she was doing this in the first place.

She looked at the vanity table and saw the scissors. She placed the brush down beside it; she slowly and hesitantly picked them up. Once they were in her hands she brought them over to her daughter's hair. She felt a little ashamed since her daughter always had such lovely long hair but this is what Eliza wanted. And so with a little bit of guilt she took some of Eliza's hair and started to cut.

Eliza tensed a little as she felt her hair being cut. Even though hair couldn't hurt her as it was being cut, Eliza felt as if she was losing a bit of herself with each strand.

"I hope you know what you're doing Eliza," Angelica spoke in a concerned tone.

Eliza sighed a little but she pushed any negative thoughts away from her mind.

"I'm not Eliza anymore dear sister," Eliza stated as her hair was tied back. "From now on you'll have to address me as Elijah."

Catherine finished tying back her daughter's hair. She wondered if she should be saying "son" instead of "daughter" though at this point. Either way, she moved away from Eliza in order for Eliza to get a better look at her new attire and identity. Eliza took in a deep breath as it was now her turn to look at her reflection. Eliza slowly stood up and walked closer to the long mirror in the room.

There she was or rather where he was. Her reflection showed who she had to be now and who she would have to hide behind closed doors. However, despite the heaviness in her chest she smiled. A small smile but nonetheless a smile. She reached out to the mirror, her reflection and her made contact.

"Hello there," she stated. "I'm Elijah Schuyler."

Despite the tension of the situation Catherine, Susanna, Angelica, Peggy and Maria all smiled once they heard that. Even in a situation like this Eliza could still find the joy, she was like her grandmother in that respect. Catherine walked forward and placed her hands on Eliza's shoulders, she gave them a reassuring squeeze.

"Whether you are Eliza or Elijah, we are all still very proud of you," Catherine stated firmly.

All the others agreed as they nodded their heads. Eliza smiled and she looked back at the mirror. She wondered if this was how her father felt when he first put upon a uniform. If that was the case then she understood what the heaviness in her chest was. It was pride. That was when there was a soft knock on the door.

"Can I come in?" Mr. Schuyler's voice asked.

"You may Philip," Catherine responded.

Susanna opened the door for the Schuyler patriarch; as soon as he walked in he was greeted by the sight of his middle daughter… or rather son. His child stood there, no longer in her signature dress but rather a white cravat shirt with a light blue waistcoat and blue coat and breeches with low heel boots decorating her feet. Her hair was no longer in its signature style either; instead it was tied back and held with a blue ribbon. If he didn't know the truth, he could have sworn that he had a son. That was when he was brought back to reality; he made his way towards Eliza.

Eliza looked nervous as her father approached her, she didn't know what to expect at this point. Sure he had agreed to all of this, with some hesitation, but still she didn't want him to go back on his promise to her. This was her heart's greatest desire; she just hoped that now he truly understood that.

Philip Schuyler now stood in front of his daughter and middle child, he looked down at her. Eyes similar to his own stared back at him. He saw his reflection in her eyes. No, he saw himself in her. He never realized just how similar he was to his child and for that he felt foolish. Why hadn't he seen it before? Why hadn't he acknowledged it before? Perhaps it was because he was afraid, afraid of what this world would do to her if it saw her as him. He didn't want his daughter to be critiqued based on what he had done in life. And while Philip Schuyler might have agreed to this for the family's name and honor, he also did it for her. He wanted Eliza to make her own legacy and maybe this was the way she was supposed to do it. If that was the case then he would go along with what his mother had said in his dream.

"You know everything will be alright."

He kept those words close to his heart. He just hoped that what she said was true; in the end he just hoped that he would always have his beloved daughter. He hoped that she would always come back at the end of the day. That would be enough. And so he kneeled down to Eliza's height and wrapped his arms around her.

"My Eliza," he said. "My Elijah. Whichever you are know that I will always be by your side. I will always be proud of you just as I will always love you. Remember that."

It took a lot for Eliza not to cry; instead she wrapped her coat covered arms around her father and hugged him back. Mr. Schuyler smiled as a stray tear leaked out of one of his eyes. Catherine, Susanna and the children smiled at the scene. That was when they gathered around the father and daughter pair. They embraced them in a group hug; all of them had smiles on their faces.

As they hugged her, Eliza felt as if they were transferring their strength to her. She would need it to. She didn't know what lay ahead in the road before her but she would face it head on. Only five years old but her mind was older, she understood that now. And so the first part of her story was being written. But now the characters of this story were defined as something entirely new.

Maria Lewis was now Elizabeth "Eliza" Schuyler.

And Elizabeth "Eliza" Schuyler was now Elijah Schuyler.

She was now Sweet Polly Oliver, little did she know that this was actually the end of act one and the beginning of act two because this story had been in the process since the day she was born.

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