Chapter 11
The week went by, and with every day Louisa dreaded Friday night more. She knew, however, that she owed the village to thank them for their support. Finally the day came.
It was fine weather and the area in front of the pub had been decorated with different coloured lights. Enough beer and soft drinks had been ordered, some finger food was prepared and soft music played in the background. From 6:30 pm on, people started to arrive. Joan and Louisa both greeted everyone and thanked them personally. At seven pm Louisa switched off the music and asked for their attention. She had prepared a little speech to thank everyone for their effort. She especially thanked Al Large for his commitment and kind help. "Unfortunately the search didn't have a happy end, but let me assure you that I know that this is not the fault of any of you. If it would have been possible to find Martin, I know you would have succeeded. If anyone could have done it, then it would have been you. I thank you all that you proved once again what village life is all about – to help each other in their hour of need."
"I really needed you over these last few weeks, and I was not disappointed. I thank you all so very much!"
Louisa looked at all of these faces, most of them she had known all of her life. Al looked sheepishly around, not confident about the praise he received. Roger, accompanied by Maureen, tried to look reassuringly towards Louisa. Joan nodded.
The music was switched back on. Many guests came over to Louisa to express their sympathy. Louisa knew that they really meant well, but this wasn't helping at all, it just rubbed salt into her wounds. After two hours, she took a glass of sparkling wine from the tray and slowly made her way to the exit, almost unnoticed. Only Joan followed her with her eyes, but guessed correctly that Louisa just needed time for herself. Joan could see that Louisa slowly paced up Roscarrock Hill.
Louisa took the steps up to the surgery – still dark and deserted. She gently polished the metal sign saying "Dr. Martin Ellingham, MD RS FRCS" with her sleeve. Then she nodded towards the party down at the harbour. It was already dawning and the different coloured lights shone brightly.
"That's for you, Martin. I know you never believed it, but people do care about you. They did everything to find you. Stubborn as you are, you didn't let them. Elusive to the end."
She cheered her glass towards the sign. "Here's to you. Wherever you are." She poured down the sparkling wine and left the glass on the doorstep. Then she slowly climbed down the hill. She remembered all the times she went the same way, with his eyes fixed upon her. "I hope you can catch a glimpse from where you are now." She whispered. She went past the pub, where the increased alcohol levels had heightened everyone's spirits. She was in no mood for laughter. She went up to her cottage. With the lights switched off, she went onto the balcony. The laughter and noise from the party – her party – could clearly be heard. There was a light breeze . It would have been a really nice evening. Would have, if only…
To be continued…
I thank Sendibo for the valuable information what is written on the plaque of the surgery.
