Chapter 34- Telegrams… Good or Bad?
It was a beautiful Saturday morning; Elizabeth was up early gathering supplies to take to the school. She was looking so forward to getting back to teaching. Although she saw the children during the summer; it was hard not seeing them every day, and she missed their smiling faces. There were several new faces that would be in the classroom this year. The mining company had opened several new shafts, so more miners were needed. As a result, a few new families had arrived recently, adding three more children to her class. Elizabeth had hoped to see Jack before she left, but he had been spending so much time with her lately because of her accident, and he had let much of his paperwork slide. She felt it best not to bother him. Besides, she knew she would see him later in the day. Elizabeth had two baskets of supplies to carry to the school, and she headed out even before the breakfast rush entered the café.
Elizabeth passed many of the miners on their way to breakfast. Most were cordial, and polite, saying "Morning ma'am" as they passed. She became nervous when up ahead just before the grove of trees she saw Mr. Moore, standing there, as if he were waiting especially for her. "I can handle this…I'm not afraid," she thought. She continued on, hoping that he was actually there for mining company business.
"Good morning ma'am," Mr. Moore spoke to Elizabeth as she passed by. "Do you need any help?" He asked.
"No sir, I'm fine. Thank you anyway…Oh and good morning to you as well," she responded, thinking to herself that he was just trying to be kind. Elizabeth continued through the trees to the clearing where set the new church/school. She glanced behind her, seeing no one there, she continued to the school, feeling quite relieved. She smiled at herself, thinking how ridiculous she was thinking that Mr. Moore was there watching her.
She walked up the steps and opened the door…she stood in awe of the beauty within. The oak walls were smooth and shiny, the table and chairs were perfectly spaced, giving the children plenty of room. All of the crates had been opened, and the reference books were placed in the built in bookcases. Subject books for each student were sitting at their desks, along with their slates and chalk. Elizabeth walked to her desk and set her baskets down, taking in all of the beautiful handiwork, made possible by Jack's generous donation. She sat down, smiling at the knowledge that Jack made the donation to keep her in town. Feeling the love all around her in this special building, she bowed her head, saying a prayer for a good year.
Elizabeth stood from her chair, walking around the room, touching each table and chair which would soon contain her precious students. She unpacked her baskets, placing all of the items in their proper place. Opening her desk drawer, Elizabeth found a jewelry box, tied closed with a bow. She opened the box to find a beautiful silver Lamp of Knowledge charm, and a silver necklace on which to display it. Underneath the box was a note… "Every time I think of you, I smile." Elizabeth sat thinking about Jack, and how thoughtful it was of him to leave her this gift. She couldn't wait to put it on, and found herself running the charm on the chain throughout the day. Every time she touched it she felt a big smile come over her face.
Elizabeth finished setting up her classroom, gathered her now empty baskets and started for the door. Just before she reached the door, it opened and Jack walked in. She put her arms around him, hugging him as if she hadn't seen him in days, "thank you so much, Jack."
"The school looks wonderful. Did you get everything put away?" He asked.
"Yes, I did. I just can't wait for the school year to start. This is a beautiful building, and the children will feel so safe here. Thank you so much for everything, Jack," Elizabeth leaned over and kissed his lips, wrapping her arm through his as they headed for the door.
"What's that?" Jack asked.
"What?" Elizabeth responded.
"That…" Jack said as he pointed to her necklace. "Is that new?"
"Elizabeth laughed…of course it's new, Jack. I love it. Thank you for thinking of me. It's beautiful," Elizabeth smiled, kissing his cheek.
Jack put his hands on her arms, pushing her back from him… "As much as I would love to say that I gave that to you, I didn't."
"Jack, stop teasing. It was left in my desk drawer with a note," Elizabeth said as she turned to head for her desk.
"Let me see the note," Jack asked following closely behind her.
Elizabeth opened her desk drawer, and pulled out the note, handing it to Jack… "Every time I think of you, I smile."
"Was anyone in here when you got here?" Jack asked as he scanned the schoolhouse.
"No, I passed Mr. Moore at the opening of the grove of trees. He wished me a good morning, and asked if I needed any help, but that's all. He was very courteous, Jack," Elizabeth answered.
Elizabeth reached around her neck to remove the necklace. She placed it back in the box, and stuck it in her basket.
Jack took Elizabeth's hand in his and they walked to the door. "I don't like this, I don't like this at all," Jack thought.
Jack had ridden out to the schoolhouse, and offered Elizabeth a ride back on his horse.
"No, thank you, I would rather walk." Elizabeth said as she draped her arm through his and they walked back to town leading his horse.
Jack was very quiet during their walk home, which concerned Elizabeth. "Jack, I'm sure there is a reasonable explanation about the necklace."
Jack stopped walking, turned her to face him, and said, "I don't like you getting gifts from other men."
"Jack, I'm not accepting it. I just have to find out who left it so I can return it." Elizabeth said as she tugged on Jack's arm, continuing their walk back to town.
They passed several miners walking back to their housing following their shift. The Pinkertons drove by with Mr. Moore in the back seat, and Jack wrapped his arm around Elizabeth as they passed.
Jack walked Elizabeth back to the café, leaving her with the promise to return for dinner. Elizabeth kissed Jack goodbye as he left to take his horse to the Livery.
Elizabeth walked back to the kitchen where she found Abigail and Bill talking and enjoying a cup of coffee. As she walked in, she caught a glimpse of Bill holding Abigail's hands. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt you," Elizabeth said as she continued on through the kitchen and into her room. She stopped on her way in the door, and turn to face them… "Go back to what you were doing. I will leave you too alone." She turned back around, hearing Bill and Abigail laugh, and went to the table to write in her journal.
"Oh, Elizabeth," Abigail knocked on her door. "Come in…"
"Mr. Yost brought this telegram to you this morning. I hope its good news," Abigail said as she handed the telegram to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth ripped it open, and read its contents…sitting on her bed with a smile on her face, and holding it to her heart.
"Is everything okay?" Abigail asked.
"It's more than okay." Elizabeth handed Abigail the telegram for her to read…
"Dearest Elizabeth, I know that you have a great deal of planning to do for your wedding and upcoming school term. Your mind is probably going in a million different directions. Your mother and I want you to know how very proud of you we are, and we wish you the very best in your new school. Please check out your desk drawer, if you haven't already. The gift comes with all my love!"
Love always,
Father"
Elizabeth got up from the bed, and went to the basket that contained the jewelry box. She opened the box to show Abigail the beautiful necklace and the Lamp of Knowledge charm.
"That is beautiful, Elizabeth. Why aren't you wearing it?" Abigail asked.
Elizabeth undid the clasp and returned the jewelry to her neck. "Well, I had it on; I though Jack had left it for me. When he saw it, and asked about it, I knew it didn't come from him, and I immediately took it off."
"Well, I'm glad that mystery was solved. It really is a beautiful necklace and charm," Abigail said, as she headed back to the kitchen, and Bill.
Elizabeth sat back down at her table; she was thinking about her necklace and the fear she had when she learned it wasn't from Jack. She opened her journal and began to write…
"There is a big difference between what you think you know, and what you actually know.
Take time to obtain all the facts before jumping to conclusions. Too often we think of those situations or people who frighten us most… never giving them the benefit of the doubt. Always strive to be the type of person that you would want to meet. In doing so, you are less likely to be accusatory, and more likely to be accepting."
Elizabeth sat her journal on the table, and cautiously headed for the kitchen, not wanting to interrupt Bill and Abigail, but the room was empty. She walked out and fixed herself a cup of tea, taking it with her to the porch while she waited for Jack to return for dinner. As she reached for the front door handle, it was opened from the outside. There, standing in front of her was Mr. Moore. Elizabeth tried to remember what she had just written in her journal…be accepting, not accusatory, she kept saying over and over in her head.
"Miss Thatcher, you look lovely this afternoon. Would you bring me a cup of coffee, please?" Mr. Moore asked as he entered the café.
"Yes, certainly. Please have a seat, and I will be right with you." Elizabeth said as she headed back to the kitchen to grab a cup and pot of coffee.
Elizabeth poured his cup of coffee, and said, "Mrs. Stanton will be with you in a moment to take your order. Do you need anything else?" Elizabeth asked, trying to be cordial, even though he made her uncomfortable.
"We have not been formally introduced. My name is Roger Moore. I'm new in town and I don't know a lot of people. I have to say that the women in Coal Valley are quite beautiful, you especially. You could sit with me and drink your tea, ma'am," Mr. Moore said, truly putting Elizabeth's accepting and not accusatory thought to the test.
Elizabeth smiled, "thank you for the offer, but I was on my way outside to wait for my fiancé. I believe you know him…his name is Constable Jack Thornton."
"Yes ma'am, we've met. Congratulations on your engagement, but since you aren't married yet, there's nothing wrong with me asking you to join me for dinner, or coffee," Mr. Moore said as he stood, pulling out the seat next to him for her to sit down.
Elizabeth, still trying to be cordial stated, "thank you for the kind offer Mr. Moore. However, I was just on my way out front to wait for the Constable to return for dinner. You have a nice evening." Elizabeth turned to head for the door when Mr. Moore grabbed her arm, turning her around to face him. She was no longer feeling cordial, and was beginning to feel fear. Elizabeth yanked her hand away, feeling the need to get to the front door.
"I'm sorry ma'am…I didn't mean to startle you. I just wanted you to know that you dropped your napkin," Mr. Moore bent down, picking up her napkin and handing it to her.
"Thank you," Elizabeth said as she headed out the door. She walked outside, sat in their swing, and finally exhaled. "I'm letting fear dictate my life… I'm a strong woman, and I can take care of myself."
It was getting dark more diners were entering the café, and no sign of Jack. Mr. Moore finished his dinner, and left, tipping his hat to Elizabeth on his way down the porch steps. Elizabeth was worried…Jack was usually home by dinnertime. She found herself jumping to conclusions, and assuming the worst. She decided to help Abigail serve her customers, as that would take her mind off of things. She stood up, walking to the door…
"Elizabeth?"
She turned around and saw Jack running up the street toward her. "Jack, I was getting worried. Are you alright?"
"I'm fine. There was a fight out at the mine, and the Pinkertons were away on business for Mr. Gowen. I'm sorry I had to ride out to handle that. I can see that you're worried," Jack took her hand in his bringing it to lips for a kiss.
"Would you like some dinner?" Elizabeth asked as she was heading inside the café.
"I would love some…will you join me?" Jack asked as he walked up beside her, wrapping his arm around her waist, pulling her back slightly to slow her down.
"Sit down and I will get our plates," Elizabeth said as she headed for the kitchen. She walked to the cabinet to get a plate, turned around and ran right into Jack. "Whoa, Jack…I thought I left you out in the dining room."
"What's wrong?" Jack took her by the arm and led her over to the table, seating her in a chair.
"Nothing is wrong, Jack. Come on, let's go eat dinner," Elizabeth said as she stood from the chair, only to have Jack place his hands on her shoulders, pushing her back down in the seat.
"You are not getting up from here until you tell me what's wrong," Jack sat beside her. "I'm serious, Elizabeth. I know you, and you're upset about something. Wait a minute…you have that necklace on again. Who gave it to you?"
"Oh Jack, it was a gift from my father. I received a telegram today and it was mentioned. I felt so much better once I read that," Elizabeth said as she went to stand again.
"Elizabeth, have we not learned anything about keeping things from each other? Please tell me what's wrong," Jack squeezed her hand, and again sat down beside her.
"Jack it's really nothing…I mean it's something, but I have to work it out," Elizabeth said, as she attempted to stand again.
"I told you Elizabeth, you aren't going…" Jack started out.
"Okay, okay, it's just silly Jack, but since my accident; remembering some things and not having complete memories of others, I'm worrying over everything. You were late, I worry… I got this necklace, and didn't know who it was from, I worry… Mr. Moore asked me to join him for dinner, I worry. I know it's silly, Jack. I worry about things that I have no control over.
"Stop right there…Mr. Moore asked you to join him for dinner?" Jack asked, obviously annoyed.
"Don't worry…funny, now you're worrying. I thanked him, but said, no." Elizabeth said feeling a bit better knowing that she isn't the only one who worries over silly things. "Please, let's forget all of this and go have our dinner," Elizabeth grabbed their plates and started for the dining room.
The dining room was crowded, and only one open table remained…next to the Pinkertons who had just arrived. Jack pulled out Elizabeth's chair for her, and then guided it back to the table. Jack paid very little attention to the Pinkertons until Mr. Moore sat with them to enjoy a piece of pie for dessert.
Although Elizabeth was uncomfortable with Mr. Moore in the room, she felt better since Jack was with her. However, she noticed that Jack was overly attentive to her, catching romantic gazes, and attempting to hold her hand. "Jack, what are you doing?" she whispered. "I love the hand holding and the loving looks, but you usually aren't like this. Are you doing this, maybe for Mr. Moore's benefit? If so; it isn't necessary."
"I'm just enjoying a nice dinner with my fiancé," Jack said slightly louder.
Elizabeth, back to whispering replied, "Jack, there is no need to be jealous. Let's finish dinner, and then go for a walk. Do you have time for that?"
"I always have time for you Elizabeth," Jack said as he leaned over kissing her on the cheek.
They finished dinner, and Elizabeth carried their dishes back into the kitchen. When she returned, Jack was standing at the table with Mr. Moore and the Pinkertons. She felt an uneasiness in her stomach as she walked out, wrapped her arm through Jack's, and said, "I'm ready to go now."
"What was going on there?" Elizabeth asked as she and Jack started out on their walk.
"Oh nothing; I was just letting the Pinkertons know about the fight at the mine today," Jack said as he closed Elizabeth's arm in a little tighter around his.
She wasn't worried now…she was with Jack, and even in silence he always made her feel better. Since it was late, they just walked around town, returned a short while later to sit in their swing.
"Are you feeling better?" Jack asked, as he kissed her lips before she could utter a word.
"I always feel better when I'm with you, Jack," Elizabeth responded. "But it's getting late, so I guess we both should turn in." Elizabeth stood, still holding Jack's hand, and pulled him to his feet. "I love that you don't want to leave me, but after we're married, we will have many nights together." Elizabeth leaned in kissing his lips. She intended a simple kiss, but he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her in tighter to him, and they were lost in their passion.
"Whoa, Jack…that kind of kiss is more than what this café porch or the townspeople need to witness," Elizabeth said with a giggle.
"I'm sorry, Elizabeth. Sometimes I just get carried away when I'm with you. I hate to leave, but I guess I should," Jack said, as he kissed her on the cheek and headed down the steps. Once he reached the bottom of the steps, he turned around, "I love you, Elizabeth…"
She was halfway in the door, but turned around and stepped back outside, "I love you too, Jack."
He stood in the street and watched her walk inside, closing the door, before turning and heading home.
Elizabeth walked through the dining area and into the kitchen, finding it clean and empty. She walked into her bedroom, and to her bed. She found her journal, opening it to write…
"In order to put worry aside, you must first realize why you felt it, and then why you no longer need to. One must learn to let go of those things they cannot control, because what is meant to be will always find its way to you."
Elizabeth closed her journal, blew out her lamp, and drifted off to sleep.
Elizabeth was up bright and early to get ready for church. She was dressed in a pale yellow dress with petit lavender flowers. Her hair was pulled up on the sides, but fell loose in soft curls down her back. She sat at the kitchen table drinking her cup of tea when Jack walked in the back door.
"May I walk you to church this morning ma'am? Jack asked as he bent down kissing her cheek.
"Yes you may," Elizabeth said with a big smile.
Bill came in the door to pick up Abigail, who was just coming down the stairs. "Are you ready to go, Abigail?" Bill asked.
"Yes, I am…just let me get my Bible," Abigail responded.
Bill and Abigail walked out the door arm in arm, followed closely behind by Jack and Elizabeth. This was the first church service held in the new sanctuary, and the building was filled to capacity. Reverend Anderson gave a very thought provoking sermon, and at its completion he had inspired most to put old ways aside, and live a more faith based life.
It was a beautiful day, and both couples enjoyed their walk back to town, each walking hand in hand with their respective partners. They returned to the café where they gathered food Abigail had prepared to serve at the picnic, in honor of the church's dedication. Jack and Bill went to the Livery to hook up two buggies, and went back to the café to pick up the women.
It was a wonderful afternoon…everyone, including Mr. Gowen was present, and enjoyed the wonderful food and fellowship. Someone provided a phonograph, and Jack and Elizabeth took advantage of the opportunity to dance. Dusk was looming as the picnic came to an end. Most of the people stayed back to clean the church and grounds to get the building ready for tomorrow's first day of school.
Jack and Elizabeth, and Bill and Abigail headed back to town in their separate buggies…both women sitting close to their men. Jack and Bill dropped Elizabeth and Abigail off at the café, and headed to the Livery to take care of the horses and buggies. Elizabeth helped Abigail clean the kitchen and prepare what was possible for tomorrow morning's breakfast. Elizabeth went to her room to get ready for bed. Tomorrow would be a big day…the start of school in the new building, and she was both nervous and excited. She pulled out her journal to write out her final thoughts for the evening…
"I find myself excited, concerned and apprehensive of the day to come. A new building and several new students should make for an interesting beginning to the school year. Truly no sense in concerning yourself over what hasn't or may not happen, for worrying is like sitting in a rocking chair…It gives you something to do, but doesn't get you anywhere."
Elizabeth woke the next morning, pushing worry, and fear aside, and ready to greet the day with excitement, faith, and trust. She packed a few things to take with her to school, and headed out the door. Standing on the top step was Jack, holding a bunch of lilacs wrapped up in a piece of wet paper.
"Jack, those are beautiful flowers…thank you," she took the bouquet from his hand and kissed his cheek.
Jack held his arm out for her as she stuck her hand through the crook of his elbow. "May I walk you to school Miss Thatcher?" Jack asked with that impish grin of his.
"I would be honored Constable," Elizabeth said as they headed off to her first day in the new schoolhouse.
Jack walked her to the door of the schoolhouse, opening the door to see her safely inside before heading back to town to make his rounds. He wanted to get done quickly so he could walk her home. He enjoyed their quiet walks…they had learned so much about the other during these times together.
Elizabeth had a wonderful first day of school. Even the children were excited about starting the school year, and in their new building. Elizabeth realized that this was one thing that she didn't need to worry about…she was a good teacher, and the children had a thirst for knowledge. She dreamt of them being anything they wanted…even if they didn't see it for themselves. It was her responsibility to show them that hopes and dreams lie on the other side of fear.
Jack was running late, and still had a stop to make before heading back to town. Elizabeth waited an extra two hours at school hoping to have a nice walk home with Jack, but alas it was not to be today. So, Elizabeth gathered her empty basket and started home.
"Hello Miss Thatcher," a voice was heard behind her causing her to turn around.
"Hello Mr. Moore," Elizabeth was being cordial, but was not inclined to be overly friendly.
"Do you need any help?" He asked as he trotted up beside Elizabeth.
"No sir, but thank you for the offer," Elizabeth replied.
"May I join you on your walk?" Mr. Moore asked.
"I'm just walking home…I was actually waiting for Jack to walk me home, but I guess he was held up on his rounds," Elizabeth wanted him to know that she was not interested in a relationship with him, but had no intention in being rude. "We are walking in the same direction, so I guess it is okay to walk together."
"I'm walking to the café, so I guess I can see that you get home," Mr. Moore said with a smile.
It was dusk, and they were just outside town when the sound of horses hooves could be heard coming up behind them. "Elizabeth?"
Elizabeth turned around, and could not hide her excitement at seeing Jack. He dismounted, walked up, taking her hand in his and kissing her cheek.
"Mr. Moore…" Jack acknowledged him, but was surprised to see him walking with Elizabeth.
"Good evening, Constable. Your lady was walking home, so I decided to walk with her to keep her safe for you," Mr. Moore offered information that Jack didn't care to hear.
The three of them arrived at the café, and Mr. Moore went inside for dinner.
Jack led Elizabeth over to the swing and said, "Let's sit out here for a while until the dining area thins out." What he actually meant was, "Let's sit out here until Mr. Moore finishes his dinner and leaves." Jack looked over at Elizabeth, "Did Mr. Moore bother you today?"
"No, I think we were just heading in the same direction," Elizabeth said as she sat close to Jack on the swing. She told him about her day with the children, and how happy she is with the new building. Jack and Elizabeth eventually went inside for dinner, and then both helped Abigail with clearing the tables and washing the dishes. It was getting late, and Elizabeth needed to get some sleep. She walked Jack to the porch to say good night.
"This was a nice evening, Elizabeth. Seemed like we were already married… eating and then clearing the table and washing the dishes together," Jack said as he swept a strand of hair behind her ear, and then kissed her cheek. "I love you very much, Miss Thatcher. I have to say that you seem more relaxed than you were the other day. It's nice to see!"
"I love you too Constable Thornton and I have realized that it is best not to worry too much about things that are not within my control. That will do nothing but cause a problem where there wasn't one before," Elizabeth smiled, as she walked closer and kissed Jack's lips. "Good night, will you walk me to school in the morning?"
"Yes ma'am, I'll see you in the morning," Jack started down the steps before turning around and saying, "dream of me tonight…"
"I always do," Elizabeth responded.
Elizabeth was up early having a cup of coffee and chatting with Abigail before time to leave for school. She had not yet seen Jack, but gathered her belongings for the day and started out the door. Jack was coming up the steps as she stepped out on the porch.
"I'm sorry, Mr. Yost stopped me on the way over," Jack said as he leaned over and kissed her good morning.
"What did Mr. Yost want?" She asked.
"He had a telegram for me," Jack said as he started to open the envelope.
"Well, what does it say?" Elizabeth asked.
The stagecoach was early and stopped in front of the Mercantile. The driver hopped down to help their passenger out.
"Jack, what does the telegram say?" Elizabeth asked again.
"Jack…" A voice in the distance was heard.
Jack turned back to Elizabeth, "My Ma is coming for a visit."
"Looks like she's already here…" Elizabeth said, as she took a deep breath, and hoped that the worry she felt would disappear, but realizing that would be too much to hope for.
To be continued…