I am sorry that I have not been writing much as of late, I can only blame the Christmas holiday shopping season for that. Too wiped out and TOO tired! I am now doing much better and will start to update more frequently. I hope.
OK….I forgot to say one thing when I first started to write this story, Akemi helped me to write it, so it is a story that is a combination of two writers. Let's see if you can guess who wrote what. OK?
Disclaimer…..I OWN NOTHING OF FRIENDS. THE CHARACTERS, SHOW OR CONCEPT! Thanks Akemi for your help!
~*~
Chapter Two
Green Plantation…..
Life for Rachel had her rising with the sun, the same time as her father and she followed him through his work morning. She was going to inherit this farm someday, and Leonard Green wanted her prepared for the task.
Rachel also learned how to manage a huge plantation house and oversee the staff. The only two that had say over her was her father and mother. In her spare time, she would attend to her lessons as the daughter of the plantation. She learned her reading and writing skills and her dance and harpsichord lessons. Not to mention French, or what every young lady should know at the time.
But she also was well acquainted with political writings, forms of government and read law books. She loved the law so well, that everyone around her was certain that she would have made a great lawyer if she had been born a man.
Then later on in the day she would change into her riding habit. Mount her favorite horse and soon would ride quickly and yet very ladylike. She rode the saddle like she was born to it. Which was no wonder, she had been taught from a very young age to ride. Everyone around the community knew who that lady on a magnificent white was.
Then, maybe she and her father or her mom would go and visit Chandler. She hoped it was with her father. If it was with her mother, she had to sit agonizing while listening to her mom goon and on about how she and Chandler should marry. She did not like it, knew that Chandler did not appreciate it, but was too good of a host to say something aloud. And that was why she and Chandler were having trouble with each other anymore.
They both knew that they were too much like brother and sister and that the marriage would be wrong. She knew that she was too high strung and used to having her own way. Chandler was soft spoken and quiet and would not put up with her outbursts. What he needed was a woman who may be a bit the opposite of him in some ways but could hold her temper in other ways. She was too used to getting what she wanted. And Chandler would not give in to her for that. He was frugal and quiet in some ways, passionate in other ways. Particularly in matters of the heart.
Everyone who knew Chandler or was around him for very long knew that he was a man that carried his heart on his sleeve and he wanted a type of marriage that his grandparents had, full of love. Just the opposite of what his parents had. They could not even stand to be in the same room.
Green Plantation
Study
Between classes with the girls, Ross would either go and see his mother or would read. He mainly did that last part to try and find arguments against Rachel's opinions.
Ross is reading a book when Rachel walks in the study. "Mr. Geller, I have something to ask you and I want an honest answer." Before Ross could say anything one way or another, Rachel continued. "Do you believe that we are Englishmen over here?"
"Yes, I mean these are English colonies."
"And do you believe that ALL Englishmen have rights?"
"Yes, of course."
"And among those rights are voting on our taxes and electing our OWN officials to represent us?"
"Well…..in a way. I think that the colonies are too young and the King and Parliament should still govern them."
"You are avoiding the question!"
"I am not, Miss Green!"
"Yes you are."
"No I am not. You asked me a question and I answered it."
"No you did not, Mr. Geller! I asked if ALL Englishmen should have a say in their government by voting for everything from what kind of taxes they have or by electing governors. Not having political appointees made by the king or Parliament."
"And I said that the colonies are still way too young to be dabbling in politics."
"Fine think that way. But remember what I told you people are choosing sides on issues. Around here not too many are siding with the Patriots."
"Traitors you mean." Ross butted in.
Rachel's face flushed with anger. "Patriots for sticking up for their principles and speaking their minds like Englishmen should. New York and the surrounding areas are very conservative and lean heavily toward the king and Parliament."
"As any LOYAL Englishman should!"
"But over in Massachusetts, it is a powder keg about ready to explode. And a very good man by the name of Patrick Henry in Virginia is showing his metal. By letting the people know where he stands!"
"They are all traitors!"
"They are not! They are all very good men and women that I am in contact with and write letters to and read their writings and papers and speeches!"
"Miss Green, unless you want that lovely neck of yours stretched you would do well to find some different friends. Someone could turn you in to the authorities."
"So what if someone does. I am an Englishman and I WILL speak my mind." After that being said she turned on her heel and left Ross alone to ponder her statements. She then rushed up the stairs to get changed into her riding habit and to get help from one of two men that she knew would help her.
********
Bing Plantation gardens
One hour later
Phoebe sat on a bench with a book on English gardens and looked up every now and then. Busy comparing them to the gardens spread out before her. She sighed and shook her head.
She wanted the gardens to look exactly like an English garden. She felt they were the best in the world. But no matter how many seeds she ordered from England or plant she had brought over from the mother country, the garden had a new world look to it. Because of the plants that grew here and not in England. What she wanted to do was to travel to Europe and see all the different gardens there.
"Still wanting the garden to look like one of those English gardens?" Joey stood there.
"They are the best and so beautiful and so…."
"So what? The garden is more than perfect. It is an American garden! The best of both the new and old worlds! Although I say too much of the old." Joey frowned.
"It has to be perfect, Joey. And nowhere in this world has better gardens than what England has. The flowers native to England are the only flowers good enough for this garden."
"The flowers that we have here are just as good as those. You spending all that money just to bring startings and seeds over here is not a good idea. The flowers and herbs here are good enough."
"No Joey, I want this to look like the best garden in the world. And the best gardens are on the European continent. With all of the flowers and mazes of manicured bushes and splashing fountains. And…."
"One of these days you will go too far with this."
"I most certainly will not! Chandler says that what I want for the garden I can have."
"Phoebe, Joey is right. I say to try and keep this garden looking English is plain wrong!" Rachel had evidently seen the both of them and walked over to them and caught on to what they were talking about.
"Rachel, the only reason you say that is because you hate everything that deals with the English. From the clothes to their form of government, even their architecture."
"I DO like the form of government if the politicians would follow the letter of the law. And anyone knows that French clothes are the best type of clothes out their. Their fashions are not only the best but their flair of the dramatic is what I like as well. As for that horrible mess of English building that you call architecture, it is the worst thing on this planet. And if I had my way I would burn down my house and start a new and uniquely American style of architecture!"
"I am sure you would." Phoebe mumbled.
Joey who was standing to one side grinning all the while and shaking his head. "Now I would not blame you, but why destroy a house, why not just rebuild on the outside of it?"
"You are a genius, Joey! When I get control of the house, I will do just that. Daddy said he will retire in a few years and leave the farm to me! HE is going to train me to run it!"
"I am sure your mother loves that!" Phoebe came back with.
"Oh, she does not know, yet! And he will give Amy and Jill enough for a dowry! I asked my dowry to be the farm and plantation!"
"You had better be careful, you are going to be the most sought after woman around." Joey warned.
"I know and I will know better." Just then remembering why she came. "Joey have you seen Chandler around anywhere, I have a favor to ask him."
Joey's forehead furrowed. "Something about a quick business trip to the city."
"Oh ok. Hey, you can help me better than him. I need your help convincing Ross Geller about how bad the king and Parliament really are. Please!!!!!!!!!!!"
"Alright, but you owe me a dance at the harvest festival."
"Deal." They shook hands.
"Now when do you want to talk to Mr. Geller?"
"Well….." As they were talking Phoebe rolled her eyes.
*************
As the weeks passed into months, it became clear to Chandler that Monica's attitude toward him, and her servitude, was not going to change. He made every attempt to help her feel welcomed, but all of his attempts were met with a cold shoulder, or forced politeness.
Still Chandler was as patient and nice as he could be towards her.
He even went and asked her father when her birthday was. Then Chandler asked Jack what Monica would love to have more than anything in her heart.
Jack thought for a short moment, then told Chandler the story of the cameo broche and silver comb that had belonged to his mother, and that he was forced to sell to the captain of the ship, Atlantis. He had used the money to buy some much needed limes and lemons from the sailors to keep his family from developing scurvy.
The next time Chandler was in New York, he made some inquiries about the captain of the ship. Captain Dodge had retired after his last voyage and settled in New York. Chandler then paid him a visit and bought the broche and comb from him, excited to give it to Monica as a birthday gift. What happened when he tried only broke Chandler's heart more.
**
~Monica's Birthday~
Monica was taking a break in the kitchen when Mary walked in.
"Monica, Chandler wants to see you in the study."
Monica got up and walked out of the kitchen, through the breezeway or the hall way, and then down the hall to the study.
The study was definitely a man's room. Besides the book cases that were filled with books, there was a great fireplace with two rocking chairs, a huge oak desk with plenty of papers scattered all over it as well as some journals, a roll top desk behind it with even more papers, a chair with the desk and two others in front of the desk. And a small table that held a chess set on it with two chairs around it.
While the study was the main accounting room for the plantation, the main office for the affairs of the plantation was between the barn and the other crafts rooms and the other buildings. The only time Chandler was in his study, was while he was working on the plantation accounts and late at night or when he entertained guests.
Monica hesitated slightly, then knocked on the door.
"Come in." Chandler's voice called out. He looked up from his papers and smiled shyly at her. "Monica, take a seat, please." He then stood up, while waiting for Monica to take a seat.
"I would rather not." Monica was anxious to get to the heart of the matter, "What do you want?"
Chandler's smile wavered slightly, "I got you a birthday present." He retrieved a small , wooden box from his desk drawer, and handed it to Monica. "Happy birthday." He said, watching her hopefully. The hope did not last long.
Monica handed it back. "I do not want it."
"But, you didn't even open it." Chandler's smile faded into a frown.
"There is nothing that you can possibly give me that I would ever want or accept. Is this all?" Monica asked coldly.
Chandler sighed. "Yes, that is all Monica. You can go."
With that, Monica gave a small curtsey and then left. Chandler sadly watched her leave.
After she left, Chandler sat down in the chair, before opening the box and looking at the contents. He then ran his fingers down the silver comb and touched the cameo gently as he thoughtfully wondered what would have happened if she had looked in the box.
Joey had just walked in, and caught the last bit of the conversation. He felt awful for Chandler. No matter what Chandler did for Monica, she would ignore or brush off what he did Finally, Chandler closed the box and looked up and gave a Joey a half smile.
"Joey, since we have about everything done for today, I am going for a ride to clear my head."
"Do you want me to come with you?" Joey asked, concerned about his friend's well being.
Chandler smiled gratefully at Joey. "No thank you, Joey," He said quietly, then left with the box and began to walk out toward the barn. Joey hesitated for a moment, then followed him quietly. But instead of going to the barn, Chandler went to the blacksmith shop.
Jack saw Chandler coming out and walked outside to join him. "How did she like the present?" Jack asked enthusiastically. He was secretly hoping that Monica would calm down after seeing it.
"She didn't even look at it. Here, give it to her later on. She might want it for one of her daughters in the future." Chandler grimaced when he said that. From the way everything was looking, it would not be him that Monica would want to marry. Chandler opened the box and took out the comb and the broche, handed it to Jack, turned around and walked away.
Jack looked down at the comb and broche sadly. No matter how hard Chandler tried, he could not get through to her. Chandler did everything he could to make Monica happy, but she would always throw it back in his face. Jack wondered why Monica couldn't see what everyone else saw—Chandler was a good, decent man.
After Chandler walked around the corner of the barn, and he was sure no one could see him, he leaned up against the side of the barn and sighed slowly and very sadly. He knew that he should not let Monica get to him this way. But as time wore on, he found it increasingly difficult to wear the brave face. Each time Monica rejected his friendship, it broke his heart a little more. Shaking his head, he went to saddle and then to mount up on his fastest and most favorite horse and try to ride away his hurt and frustrations.
Joey watched Chandler ride into the woods, and frowned hard. He had to talk to Phoebe about this. Perhaps together, they could talk Monica into giving poor Chandler a break.
**
Despite both Joey and Phoebe's pleas, Monica was still insistent about how unhappy she was at the plantation and that it was Chandler's fault. She told them that she would forever think of him, not as a friend, but as a master, and nothing else.
While Monica continued to wallow in self-induced misery, her father found that he was really, truly happy. The people he worked with and everyone else were as nice as they could be, and he was happy with his surroundings. Chandler had even let him use his huge library, and let him get and send mail.
And he was even invited by Chandler to come over and to talk politics to him. While doing so, he saw that Chandler and Joey both were not that loyal to the king and Parliament. Something which greatly surprised him.
But then after a bit he started understanding the reason why. The king and Parliament levied taxes on them without any representation and treated them not as Englishmen with the same rights and privileges as, but as a conquered nation or people that they was fleecing for their own treasury.
He even found out while visiting Monica one night, there were some voices that had some eagerness from them coming from the study. It was not only Joey and Chandler, but also some of their neighbors, Leonard and Rachel Green as well.
Among them all, Rachel seemed to be the more determined to break away from England. Her views would be considered those of a traitor. He knew that if any loyal soldier of the king heard her talking that she would be taken to prison and probably hung for talking like that.
Seeing them outside, listening, Chandler called both Jack and Monica in and asked their opinions. While Jack was subdued with his opinions, Monica let her feelings be known. That while she did not like what the king and Parliament were doing, she felt that things could be worked out and with the way of thinking that Rachel was doing, there would be no hope for peace for either side, if that view were to be proximate.
That started a few more discussions that lasted for half of the night. Jack could tell that Monica and himself were in very good hands. Since Chandler was interested in hearing their opinions and what they thought.
To Jack, Chandler was the best 'master' that they could have gotten. The mere fact that he hated to be referred to as anything except 'Chandler', and that he helped with the work around the plantation, was proof of that. Chandler never tried to put off that he was better than any one of his servants.
Which was a shock to the other well to do families that lived around the area, who thought that anyone with their status helping out the help was scandalous to say the least. Especially Saundra Green, who felt that he should marry and that a wife would help him to see that he would 'act' his rank, instead of below it.
Chandler and Joey even came to visit him at his shop and his house just to talk or to bring the mail over, after the post rider had come. Jack was genuinely interested in what they thought and they were interested in what he thought. Chandler never once tried to tell him how to run the shop and trusted Jack completely. With that kind of instilled trust, Jack felt more loyal toward Chandler.
But no matter how much Jack tried to convince Monica that Chandler was a gentleman and the best thing that could have happened to them under the circumstances, she was still walking around with a chip on her shoulder. And Jack knew that Chandler liked her, and that she did not like him.
***********
While Jack and Monica were doing well at the Bing plantation, Ross was doing great as well. The only thing he worried about was his mother, Judy.
Her mind seemed to be drifting a lot more. She talked about walking to the Thames river to see the duck and to Hyde Park. Maybe to have tea with friends of hers that were over in England. He really got worried when she started talking about having tea with a friend of hers that had been dead for five years. Her mind was no longer there. And her duties were suffering because of it.
One day, he got called into the study. Mr. And Mrs. Green were there, as well as Chandler Bing. He met him one time when he went to church.
"Mr. Geller, do you know why you are here?"
"Is it about the last, er… uh, discussion Miss Green, Mr. Tribbianni and I had concerning the government?" That had happened to be the loudest one yet. During the discussion, Ross could tell that there would be a lot more like that.
Chandler smirked, Mrs. Green huffed and Col. Green chuckled. 'No, Ross." His smile turned into a frown. "It concerns your mother."
"Oh…." He knew there was nothing left to say. They were going to put her into an insane asylum.
"Mrs. Green suggested we put her in a mental hospital." Ross caught his breath in his throat. "Since Mr. Bing happened to be here, he had another idea I want to see if you would think it might work. An exchange of sorts, he has an assistant cook by the name of Janice that he bought at the same time I purchased you and your mother. We trade cooks. Your mother goes and stays with your father and his cook works as an assistant cook at the main house."
"I think that is a wonderful idea, sir."
"I am inclined to agree with you both. Judy Geller would recognize her husband and she would be next to him and maybe that would help her, mentally."
"Worth a try. At least everyone will be happy. Jack is always worried about her and you know that since they are together, she is being well taken care of. And if need be, I will get a doctor to look at her. Don't worry though, I will not send her to a mental hospital. I will make sure of it. My word of honor to you." Chandler explained.
"I think it is a good idea." Ross explained. He might not get to see his mother as much but she would be with his father and see him all the time.
Later on that afternoon, a carriage drove up, Chandler, Monica, Jack and young woman with two bags got out. Ross ran over to greet them. And handed the driver his mother's bags.
As soon as she saw her husband, Judy hugged him. "Jack I am so glad you are back from your business trip, Now we can go back to London and start planning for Monica's coming out party, it will not belong until the season is upon us as you know. And we must make sure that we find a husband for our poor comely daughter."
Monica gasped aloud. Rachel put her hand on her shoulder and shook her head. Telling her to pay no heed. Chandler's mouth was halfway opened. As was Jack and Leonard. Ross just soothed his mom.
"Mom, it is along trip back to London from the college. I hope you do not get too tired."
"Thank you, Ross. Now remember all the family hopes and dreams rests with you. So please do not dawdle with your work."
"Do not worry mom, I will not fail you."
"I know you will not. You are the perfect child." She patted his cheeks and soon, she , Jack, Monica and Chandler got into the carriage for the hour long drive back to the plantation.
Over the next six months, Monica, now fifteen and a half, had changed a lot physically and mentally. She was now almost fully trained on how to run the huge household.
Mary could relax more and start planning her retirement. Mary was 78 years old, and had come over from England with Chandler's grandmother when she was 28. And since Mary had family back in England, she had always planned to go back and live there.
Chandler's feelings for Monica had increased more and more everyday. Whether it was seeing her walk across a room, or hearing her voice when she was talking or even humming when she did not know he was there.
It had started out as crush, but now all he could think about was Monica and how she was doing. It hurt him to see how unhappy she was. He always tried to make her smile. And he felt that his day was not complete without seeing her at least once.
There was no way around it; He was in love with her. He knew that she did not feel the same way towards him. But he kept up the hope that her feelings would change. Hopefully, someday, she would see him, not as her master but as something more. And not just as a friend.
That hope kept him going, until one late, spring afternoon. The sun was fading, and twilight was near. A few stars began peaking out of the remains of the day, and the air began to cool dramatically. During that time, Chandler was walking his mount back from where he was overseeing the wheat planting. A shoe had fallen off his horse earlier so he was taking it to be put back on by Jack.
He had decided to make the trip shorter by cutting through the apple orchard, where the dirt is much softer. He never wanted any living creature to suffer. He knew that the soft dirt of the fields and the orchard would be much easier on the horse's hooves than the rocky ground that covered the shorter route or the hard packed dirt of the main road.
It was then that he saw it. He saw Monica and Jacob Hunt, kissing. He felt his stomach drop and a knot start to form in it. He closed his eyes and swallowed hard. The woman that he was in love with was evidently in love with another.
Finally, to put a stop to the kissing, Chandler cleared his throat and spoke. "Jacob, my horse lost his shoe. Take him and shoe him. And then take him to the stables to be groomed."
Monica and Jacob jumped apart, both obviously surprised that they had been caught. "Uh, yes Chandler." Jacob then ran forward, grabbing the reins and leading the horse back. But not before he kissed Monica goodbye.
As soon as Jacob was out of earshot, Monica turned toward Chandler and frowned at him, "He was given the rest of the day off."
"Well, I gave him a job to do. Your father is not the ONLY blacksmith on this farm. I do NOT want him to get worn out or sick. You see I CARE about your father." Chandler said bitterly, and turned to walk to the house.
Chandler tried to act like what he had seen did not bother him. It was a good thing Joey was not there. Joey could always read him like a book. He would have known immediately that this situation bothered Chandler. Luckily, Joey was overseeing the wheat planting on the south field at the moment.
"Are you trying to say that I do not care about my father?" Monica was furious and she started to follow him back to the main house.
"No, but from now on, Jacob is to stay at his job until your father stops his work. And you are to stay at yours. You are NOT allowed to leave the house until Mary calls it a day. I want you trained to take her place." Chandler knew that he was being unreasonable, but he had let his emotions get the better of him. To try and cover his erratic emotions, he casually took an apple from the tree and started to eat it.
"You mean I am not allowed to take a break, even when Mary gives me one?"
"I didn't say that. You are allowed a break, just not away from the house. Mary needs your help, and I will not have anyone running all over this place looking for you, because you are not nearby."
"But, Mary said--" Monica started, only to be cut off by Chandler.
"You see Monica, no one is better than anyone else on this farm. Everybody's job is important. The blacksmith, carpenter, wheelwright, overseer, field hands, maids, cooks, housekeeper, grooms, laundresses and even the children who help with the smaller chores. Everyone is an integral part of this community," Chandler was determined not to have to see a repeat of Monica and Jacob and what they were doing. If he had to he would stop them any way he could.
"Except you, master. No one is equal to you." Monica stated bitterly. She referred to him by that name that he hated being called so much.
"Monica I own and run this plantation, but I think and know that a lot of the people who work here are better than me." Chandler paused abruptly, and looked off into the fading sunlight with a hardened expression on his face, as he fought back the bitter memories of his youth.
"What's the matter? Could it be that you are really not the wonderful Master that everyone thinks you are?" Monica looked hard at Chandler.
"It doesn't matter," Chandler sighed and shook his head. Determined to change the subject, he looked at the apple he was eating, then tossed it to the ground. "A week and a half tops. Then we can start harvesting them," he said quietly, referring to the apple, "You and Mary will oversee the making of apple butter and the canning of the apples, and then we can store some of them in the cellars and then make apple cider out of most of them. It looks as though we are going to have a good harvest this year."
Monica opened her mouth to ask him another question. But Chandler stopped her, "It's getting dark out, it's time to head back to the main house. I'm sure that there are other people you'd rather spend your evening with," he spat bitterly, and began to walk back toward the house.
Monica silently followed Chandler, all the while wondering what had caused his sudden change in mood. He was obviously disturbed by something, and Monica wondered what it was. She also wondered why she suddenly cared so much about it.
Chandler scuffed the ground with his work boot, angry at himself for letting his emotions take control of him that way. Only two people knew about The Incident, and Chandler was determined to keep it that way.
********
Once a week, Chandler had dinner with the overseers of all the areas of the farm. It served two purposes. One, to get a chance to get to know the people he was entrusting with his livelihood, two, it was a way for everyone to keep Chandler up to speed on the little happenings on the plantation, and to make decisions on what to do about certain areas that were under dispute.
Those that came to the weekly dinner included the heads of the household, Mary and Monica, Phoebe, the head of the kitchen and flower gardens, Joey who was second in command of the farm, and Jack and Gary, who were elected by the tradesmen to represent them. Also in attendance was Duncan McMillan, who was head of the animals and the head groomsman, Thomas Allister, who headed the planting and the harvesting of the fields, Eric Robertson, who was in charge of the docks and all that it encircled from fish, warehouses, and the boats, and Sean O'Rourke, who was in charge of the brewery, winery, and the fields that went with it.
Monica and Jack were both there to learn what went on and how they were run. Jack really did not need to be there, since the representative of the craftsmen was an elected position. Even so, Chandler felt it was a good idea that he be present.
While Jack did not have to be there, Monica did, since she was taking over Mary's job. Monica hated every second of Chandler's so-called "democracy", and made no effort to hide it. For Chandler, the dinner provided yet another opportunity for him to keep Monica away from Jacob Hunt, and near him. Despite his best efforts to be fair, Chandler's emotions often clouded his judgment. It was a dangerous, and scary feeling.
Of course it did not help when they worked together. Especially alone on the accounts. It would happen late at night, in Chandler's study. Monica and Chandler would work for hours to get the books finished.
The books would contain everything from how much a certain crop brought in, the storage bins, the warehouses, the money that was close at hand, what was exchanged, bought and the other valuables on the property. Their was also land agreements, titles, and other important papers. But the book that caught Monica's attention was one that she came across that had only symbols, letters, and numbers. Chandler had accidentally dropped it, while rearranging his desk.
"Master what is this?"
"Monica, I told you to call me Chandler! I really hate….." Once seeing Monica looking in the book he quickly grabbed it from her. "Never mind."
"But…."
"It does not concern you."
"You are a smuggler!" Monica almost shrieked. Chandler put his hand over her mouth.
"Monica, a lot of people are that. The government is going way too far with their demands and this is to help the average man. The taxes they are putting on any of the goods are so high, it is hard for any man to make ends meet. Understand?" Monica shook her head yes. "Will you please not tell anyone?" Monica shook her head again. "Good, now let's get to work." Chandler then took his hand off her mouth. A few minutes later they were back at work.
*****
At the dinner, when no formal guests were there, Chandler threw formality aside and ate with the help in the kitchen, on the very informal pewter plates that his grandmother brought over with her from England. She received them as a bridal gift from her mother and father. Which included plates, tableware, bowls, skillets and other such cooking and eating instruments.
When the plantation did have guests, the fine china was used in the formal dining hall, and the food served was a meat of some kind, a beef roast, or a smoked ham, fried, barbequed, mutton, goat, or roasted chicken, roast duck, seafood, fish or some other meat like wild game like deer or quail. When he and Joey would go hunting. But Chandler made it clear that he did not like turkey, it tired him out too much and he felt horrible after eating it. The only time they served it was to guests and at parties.
There was at the least four different vegetables. They could be anything from green snap beans, green peas, corn, yellow squash, pumpkins, carrots, cauliflower, tomatoes, watercress, mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, greens, onions (white, red or yellow: domesticated or wild), potatoes, sweet potatoes, or some other vegetable.
There was always freshly baked bread, with one or two types of cheese, (usually cheddar) and freshly made butter. The bread was either white, wheat or rye. Sometimes it was made into a regular loaf or for special occasions, it was made into a French loaf or twist.
There was always plenty of wine, milk, cider, lemonade, ale or beer that was made on the farm. Chandler rarely ever bought other wines, preferring the taste of the wines that were home made to those that were from another land. When he did buy imported beverages, they mainly used them for entertaining.
There was always a variety of desserts. With all of the different berries: strawberries, blackberries, red currant berries, raspberries, and blueberries. Not to mention the honey harvesting, maple syrup harvesting and molasses making that the farm did and then the apples, peaches, lemons, certain nuts, limes and other fruit that were turned into tempting pies, cakes, cobblers, tarts, donuts, puddings, and other concoctions. There was virtually no limit on what could be made.
Of course not all of that food was made when it was just the household. Everyone on the plantation ate well, but the giant feasts were saved for the guests. Which hardly ever occurred.
Sometimes even his guests stayed over, when it was late at night, or they had a LOOOONG way to travel. Chandler was never very comfortable with the idea of having outsiders staying on the plantation. It wasn't that he did not like people. He just did not want to be though of as a 'tavern keeper.'
And if they ever had a party, which he rarely did, if ever, they even bought some more food and even spirits. And Chandler would reluctantly open the guest rooms. But the main thing was the amount of food. If Chandler did go to a party, it was someone else's party. Usually, at the Green farm.
But Chandler was very uncomfortable at the Green house as of late, especially now that Sandra Green was trying so hard to set him up with her eldest daughter, Rachel. Chandler thought Rachel was a nice young girl. A little spoiled, maybe, but nice. In short he was more of a friend to her and to her sisters. So anymore, it usually was the Colonel who came to visit him.
Sandra's matchmaking schemes generally fell apart. But, truth to be told, if Chandler just HAD to choose between ANY of the Green girls, he would have picked Rachel. Jill was too young, Amy too much of a spoiled snob, and well Rachel and him were too much like brother and sister. But, he knew that a marriage to Rachel would be nothing more than a marriage of convenience. And Chandler, a hopeless romantic at heart, wanted more.
Chandler knew why Sandra wanted Rachel to marry him. He was one of the richest men of the county and the richest bachelor at that (which came with a lot of influence, and even though he refused to run for any office, he still had very strong political connections) and that made him greatly sought after. Most of those connections was with the hotheads in the colonies. In short those who wanted independence. Something that Saundra did not look too kindly on.
Then there was also the fact that he owned land that sat adjacent to the Green Plantation, and they could incorporate both lands nicely. Which was why she wanted Rachel and him to be betrothed. Since Rachel was the oldest, the lion's share would go to her and her future husband. They would be the perfect match.
Sandra Green would pay Chandler a visit from time to time, with a reluctant Rachel in tow in her most beautiful and enticing dresses. And Sandra would hint around that while Mary was good at her job, Chandler really needed a wife to run the plantation and to give him children.
Chandler did not appreciate the advice. And neither did Rachel. She felt that her mom was trying to sell her as a bone to Chandler for a passive treat. She knew her mother wanted Chandler to marry for money purposes. Chandler could have been the most vile man ever, but that would not have mattered to her mother, as long as he had money and had a certain rank.
Col. Green warned Sandra time and again not to push it, and to let things happen naturally if at all. But, she would not listen. Colonel Green was one of a few guests that Chandler did not mind entertaining.
The men would sit up and discuss politics, while playing chess or discussing a book they had just read or the newspapers or mail that they received for the post riders. They would even talk about the plantations and different new farming implements. To Col. Green, Chandler was just like the son he never had. And Col. Green was like the father Chandler always wanted.
Rachel was the other guest that Chandler did not mind coming. She was more like a sister to him. But lately, everything was awkward between them, thanks to Sandra's matchmaking schemes.
With Chandler's feeling for Monica continuing to go unrequited, Chandler began to wonder just how bad a marriage to Rachel would be. She was beautiful, literate, and she had a fiery passion for politics, something that had always intrigued Chandler. While he had no real romantic feeling for Rachel, he wondered if a marriage of convenience was really the only option he had.
On a cool autumn evening, a couple of months after he had first caught Monica and Jacob kissing, Chandler voiced his thoughts to Joey. The two friends were relaxing in Chandler's study after a hard day of getting the wheat fields ready to harvest.
"Rachel Green?" Joey who had been around her quite a bit as of late felt his heart start pumping hard in his chest.
"Why not? She's smart, and pretty, and…"
"And you don't love her," Joey pointed out. "You both are too much like brother and sister and are NOT marriage material to each other."
"So? Maybe love is a myth for people like me. You of all people should know that people like me don't really deserve—"
"People like you? Chandler, what are you talking about? You are a good person, and if Monica can't see that—"
"That's the thing, Joey. What if she sees what everyone else does not? What if she is right in hating me?"
"She doesn't hate you. And you are letting your feelings for Monica affect your usually keen judgment. Talk to her, Chandler. Tell her how you feel. It can't hurt."
Joey couldn't have been more wrong. Chandler did tell Monica how he felt, and he paid for it dearly. It happened one week later, in Chandler's study, during one of Chandler and Monica's classic arguments:
"You say that you are not my master. And yet you insist on telling me where I can go during my free time. Tell me, Master, how is that fair? Jacob Hunt is good to me. He makes me happy. Why don't you want me to be happy, Master, why?"
"Stop calling me master, Monica! I do want you to be happy, I just…"
"No, Master. You SAY you want me to be happy. But it's easier to keep me under your all-powerful thumb if I am miserable!"
"That is not true. I've done everything in my power to try and make you happy, but nothing I do is good enough—"
"Everything? You keep Jacob and me apart, and that makes me UNHAPPY!"
"Why won't you let ME make you happy? Why won't you let ME love you?"
Monica's eyes widened, and Chandler suddenly felt faint. He stepped back and away from Monica, and stared at the ground intently. Chandler's face turned crimson, and Monica felt her anger and frustration come to a head, as she unknowingly misinterpreted Chandler's statement as one of lust, not love.
"You can not BUY love, Master. You OWN me, physically. But you will never have me mentally and that includes my love. There isn't enough money in the WORLD! I love Jacob, not YOU. I find it difficult to believe that anyone could love YOU!"
Chandler looked at Monica, and Monica suddenly regretted her last statement. She realized then that she had crossed the line, and she immediately tried to apologize.
"Master, I'm sorry, I—"
"Get out," Chandler croaked, his eyes revealing to Monica just how badly she'd hurt him, "Get back to work, Monica."
Monica opened her mouth to apologize again, but Chandler held up his hand to stop her. She nodded slowly, and turned to leave the Study. She opened the door, turning back just in time to see Chandler sink into his chair, deflated and humiliated. Monica walked into the kitchen, and wondered silently what would happen next.
**********
While that was going on with Monica and Chandler, Joey was enjoying all the time he was spending with Rachel. To counteract Ross's readings for one argument, they would read up on arguments and would try and come up with arguments before Ross would. So they could be better prepared.
He loved those times. He got to stay very close to Rachel and talk with her. He could also tell they had the same sense of humor and thought the same way. Rachel would read a book to Joey or letters or newspaper articles. Since she was the better reader. And they would both commit on what they read.
Joey very interested in what Rachel was thinking and Rachel very interested in what Joey thought. She could not help but feel better around him. Since he was truly interested in what she thought. It got to the point that it was not unusual seeing them together
Joey never knew of a girl as smart, passionate ad had as much common sense as did Rachel. He did not care about her flaws. So what if she happens to be a little spoiled? She was just brought up that way. But she never really had a temper. She was just used to getting her way. It would take a man who was patient and understanding to be a good match for the young woman.
Chandler was too quick and unstable for her. They all knew it. What Chandler needed was a girl that might be a little spirited but not spoiled.
All that Joey could see was tracheas falling for her. Not only her beauty, her land and wealth, but also for her strong hard headedness and fiery views about whatever crossed her mind. He was falling in love with the person she happened to be. Not for the material wealth or beauty of the girl.
He just did not know how Rachel felt about him. Although him being the son of a poor barrel maker, he did not think he stood a chance against all the dandies that came a courting.
****************
Please reviews….ANY reviews….I mean I would hate to try and use blackmail or as I call it, friendly persuasion, to get you guys to review like I have with other fics….
OK….I forgot to say one thing when I first started to write this story, Akemi helped me to write it, so it is a story that is a combination of two writers. Let's see if you can guess who wrote what. OK?
Disclaimer…..I OWN NOTHING OF FRIENDS. THE CHARACTERS, SHOW OR CONCEPT! Thanks Akemi for your help!
~*~
Chapter Two
Green Plantation…..
Life for Rachel had her rising with the sun, the same time as her father and she followed him through his work morning. She was going to inherit this farm someday, and Leonard Green wanted her prepared for the task.
Rachel also learned how to manage a huge plantation house and oversee the staff. The only two that had say over her was her father and mother. In her spare time, she would attend to her lessons as the daughter of the plantation. She learned her reading and writing skills and her dance and harpsichord lessons. Not to mention French, or what every young lady should know at the time.
But she also was well acquainted with political writings, forms of government and read law books. She loved the law so well, that everyone around her was certain that she would have made a great lawyer if she had been born a man.
Then later on in the day she would change into her riding habit. Mount her favorite horse and soon would ride quickly and yet very ladylike. She rode the saddle like she was born to it. Which was no wonder, she had been taught from a very young age to ride. Everyone around the community knew who that lady on a magnificent white was.
Then, maybe she and her father or her mom would go and visit Chandler. She hoped it was with her father. If it was with her mother, she had to sit agonizing while listening to her mom goon and on about how she and Chandler should marry. She did not like it, knew that Chandler did not appreciate it, but was too good of a host to say something aloud. And that was why she and Chandler were having trouble with each other anymore.
They both knew that they were too much like brother and sister and that the marriage would be wrong. She knew that she was too high strung and used to having her own way. Chandler was soft spoken and quiet and would not put up with her outbursts. What he needed was a woman who may be a bit the opposite of him in some ways but could hold her temper in other ways. She was too used to getting what she wanted. And Chandler would not give in to her for that. He was frugal and quiet in some ways, passionate in other ways. Particularly in matters of the heart.
Everyone who knew Chandler or was around him for very long knew that he was a man that carried his heart on his sleeve and he wanted a type of marriage that his grandparents had, full of love. Just the opposite of what his parents had. They could not even stand to be in the same room.
Green Plantation
Study
Between classes with the girls, Ross would either go and see his mother or would read. He mainly did that last part to try and find arguments against Rachel's opinions.
Ross is reading a book when Rachel walks in the study. "Mr. Geller, I have something to ask you and I want an honest answer." Before Ross could say anything one way or another, Rachel continued. "Do you believe that we are Englishmen over here?"
"Yes, I mean these are English colonies."
"And do you believe that ALL Englishmen have rights?"
"Yes, of course."
"And among those rights are voting on our taxes and electing our OWN officials to represent us?"
"Well…..in a way. I think that the colonies are too young and the King and Parliament should still govern them."
"You are avoiding the question!"
"I am not, Miss Green!"
"Yes you are."
"No I am not. You asked me a question and I answered it."
"No you did not, Mr. Geller! I asked if ALL Englishmen should have a say in their government by voting for everything from what kind of taxes they have or by electing governors. Not having political appointees made by the king or Parliament."
"And I said that the colonies are still way too young to be dabbling in politics."
"Fine think that way. But remember what I told you people are choosing sides on issues. Around here not too many are siding with the Patriots."
"Traitors you mean." Ross butted in.
Rachel's face flushed with anger. "Patriots for sticking up for their principles and speaking their minds like Englishmen should. New York and the surrounding areas are very conservative and lean heavily toward the king and Parliament."
"As any LOYAL Englishman should!"
"But over in Massachusetts, it is a powder keg about ready to explode. And a very good man by the name of Patrick Henry in Virginia is showing his metal. By letting the people know where he stands!"
"They are all traitors!"
"They are not! They are all very good men and women that I am in contact with and write letters to and read their writings and papers and speeches!"
"Miss Green, unless you want that lovely neck of yours stretched you would do well to find some different friends. Someone could turn you in to the authorities."
"So what if someone does. I am an Englishman and I WILL speak my mind." After that being said she turned on her heel and left Ross alone to ponder her statements. She then rushed up the stairs to get changed into her riding habit and to get help from one of two men that she knew would help her.
********
Bing Plantation gardens
One hour later
Phoebe sat on a bench with a book on English gardens and looked up every now and then. Busy comparing them to the gardens spread out before her. She sighed and shook her head.
She wanted the gardens to look exactly like an English garden. She felt they were the best in the world. But no matter how many seeds she ordered from England or plant she had brought over from the mother country, the garden had a new world look to it. Because of the plants that grew here and not in England. What she wanted to do was to travel to Europe and see all the different gardens there.
"Still wanting the garden to look like one of those English gardens?" Joey stood there.
"They are the best and so beautiful and so…."
"So what? The garden is more than perfect. It is an American garden! The best of both the new and old worlds! Although I say too much of the old." Joey frowned.
"It has to be perfect, Joey. And nowhere in this world has better gardens than what England has. The flowers native to England are the only flowers good enough for this garden."
"The flowers that we have here are just as good as those. You spending all that money just to bring startings and seeds over here is not a good idea. The flowers and herbs here are good enough."
"No Joey, I want this to look like the best garden in the world. And the best gardens are on the European continent. With all of the flowers and mazes of manicured bushes and splashing fountains. And…."
"One of these days you will go too far with this."
"I most certainly will not! Chandler says that what I want for the garden I can have."
"Phoebe, Joey is right. I say to try and keep this garden looking English is plain wrong!" Rachel had evidently seen the both of them and walked over to them and caught on to what they were talking about.
"Rachel, the only reason you say that is because you hate everything that deals with the English. From the clothes to their form of government, even their architecture."
"I DO like the form of government if the politicians would follow the letter of the law. And anyone knows that French clothes are the best type of clothes out their. Their fashions are not only the best but their flair of the dramatic is what I like as well. As for that horrible mess of English building that you call architecture, it is the worst thing on this planet. And if I had my way I would burn down my house and start a new and uniquely American style of architecture!"
"I am sure you would." Phoebe mumbled.
Joey who was standing to one side grinning all the while and shaking his head. "Now I would not blame you, but why destroy a house, why not just rebuild on the outside of it?"
"You are a genius, Joey! When I get control of the house, I will do just that. Daddy said he will retire in a few years and leave the farm to me! HE is going to train me to run it!"
"I am sure your mother loves that!" Phoebe came back with.
"Oh, she does not know, yet! And he will give Amy and Jill enough for a dowry! I asked my dowry to be the farm and plantation!"
"You had better be careful, you are going to be the most sought after woman around." Joey warned.
"I know and I will know better." Just then remembering why she came. "Joey have you seen Chandler around anywhere, I have a favor to ask him."
Joey's forehead furrowed. "Something about a quick business trip to the city."
"Oh ok. Hey, you can help me better than him. I need your help convincing Ross Geller about how bad the king and Parliament really are. Please!!!!!!!!!!!"
"Alright, but you owe me a dance at the harvest festival."
"Deal." They shook hands.
"Now when do you want to talk to Mr. Geller?"
"Well….." As they were talking Phoebe rolled her eyes.
*************
As the weeks passed into months, it became clear to Chandler that Monica's attitude toward him, and her servitude, was not going to change. He made every attempt to help her feel welcomed, but all of his attempts were met with a cold shoulder, or forced politeness.
Still Chandler was as patient and nice as he could be towards her.
He even went and asked her father when her birthday was. Then Chandler asked Jack what Monica would love to have more than anything in her heart.
Jack thought for a short moment, then told Chandler the story of the cameo broche and silver comb that had belonged to his mother, and that he was forced to sell to the captain of the ship, Atlantis. He had used the money to buy some much needed limes and lemons from the sailors to keep his family from developing scurvy.
The next time Chandler was in New York, he made some inquiries about the captain of the ship. Captain Dodge had retired after his last voyage and settled in New York. Chandler then paid him a visit and bought the broche and comb from him, excited to give it to Monica as a birthday gift. What happened when he tried only broke Chandler's heart more.
**
~Monica's Birthday~
Monica was taking a break in the kitchen when Mary walked in.
"Monica, Chandler wants to see you in the study."
Monica got up and walked out of the kitchen, through the breezeway or the hall way, and then down the hall to the study.
The study was definitely a man's room. Besides the book cases that were filled with books, there was a great fireplace with two rocking chairs, a huge oak desk with plenty of papers scattered all over it as well as some journals, a roll top desk behind it with even more papers, a chair with the desk and two others in front of the desk. And a small table that held a chess set on it with two chairs around it.
While the study was the main accounting room for the plantation, the main office for the affairs of the plantation was between the barn and the other crafts rooms and the other buildings. The only time Chandler was in his study, was while he was working on the plantation accounts and late at night or when he entertained guests.
Monica hesitated slightly, then knocked on the door.
"Come in." Chandler's voice called out. He looked up from his papers and smiled shyly at her. "Monica, take a seat, please." He then stood up, while waiting for Monica to take a seat.
"I would rather not." Monica was anxious to get to the heart of the matter, "What do you want?"
Chandler's smile wavered slightly, "I got you a birthday present." He retrieved a small , wooden box from his desk drawer, and handed it to Monica. "Happy birthday." He said, watching her hopefully. The hope did not last long.
Monica handed it back. "I do not want it."
"But, you didn't even open it." Chandler's smile faded into a frown.
"There is nothing that you can possibly give me that I would ever want or accept. Is this all?" Monica asked coldly.
Chandler sighed. "Yes, that is all Monica. You can go."
With that, Monica gave a small curtsey and then left. Chandler sadly watched her leave.
After she left, Chandler sat down in the chair, before opening the box and looking at the contents. He then ran his fingers down the silver comb and touched the cameo gently as he thoughtfully wondered what would have happened if she had looked in the box.
Joey had just walked in, and caught the last bit of the conversation. He felt awful for Chandler. No matter what Chandler did for Monica, she would ignore or brush off what he did Finally, Chandler closed the box and looked up and gave a Joey a half smile.
"Joey, since we have about everything done for today, I am going for a ride to clear my head."
"Do you want me to come with you?" Joey asked, concerned about his friend's well being.
Chandler smiled gratefully at Joey. "No thank you, Joey," He said quietly, then left with the box and began to walk out toward the barn. Joey hesitated for a moment, then followed him quietly. But instead of going to the barn, Chandler went to the blacksmith shop.
Jack saw Chandler coming out and walked outside to join him. "How did she like the present?" Jack asked enthusiastically. He was secretly hoping that Monica would calm down after seeing it.
"She didn't even look at it. Here, give it to her later on. She might want it for one of her daughters in the future." Chandler grimaced when he said that. From the way everything was looking, it would not be him that Monica would want to marry. Chandler opened the box and took out the comb and the broche, handed it to Jack, turned around and walked away.
Jack looked down at the comb and broche sadly. No matter how hard Chandler tried, he could not get through to her. Chandler did everything he could to make Monica happy, but she would always throw it back in his face. Jack wondered why Monica couldn't see what everyone else saw—Chandler was a good, decent man.
After Chandler walked around the corner of the barn, and he was sure no one could see him, he leaned up against the side of the barn and sighed slowly and very sadly. He knew that he should not let Monica get to him this way. But as time wore on, he found it increasingly difficult to wear the brave face. Each time Monica rejected his friendship, it broke his heart a little more. Shaking his head, he went to saddle and then to mount up on his fastest and most favorite horse and try to ride away his hurt and frustrations.
Joey watched Chandler ride into the woods, and frowned hard. He had to talk to Phoebe about this. Perhaps together, they could talk Monica into giving poor Chandler a break.
**
Despite both Joey and Phoebe's pleas, Monica was still insistent about how unhappy she was at the plantation and that it was Chandler's fault. She told them that she would forever think of him, not as a friend, but as a master, and nothing else.
While Monica continued to wallow in self-induced misery, her father found that he was really, truly happy. The people he worked with and everyone else were as nice as they could be, and he was happy with his surroundings. Chandler had even let him use his huge library, and let him get and send mail.
And he was even invited by Chandler to come over and to talk politics to him. While doing so, he saw that Chandler and Joey both were not that loyal to the king and Parliament. Something which greatly surprised him.
But then after a bit he started understanding the reason why. The king and Parliament levied taxes on them without any representation and treated them not as Englishmen with the same rights and privileges as, but as a conquered nation or people that they was fleecing for their own treasury.
He even found out while visiting Monica one night, there were some voices that had some eagerness from them coming from the study. It was not only Joey and Chandler, but also some of their neighbors, Leonard and Rachel Green as well.
Among them all, Rachel seemed to be the more determined to break away from England. Her views would be considered those of a traitor. He knew that if any loyal soldier of the king heard her talking that she would be taken to prison and probably hung for talking like that.
Seeing them outside, listening, Chandler called both Jack and Monica in and asked their opinions. While Jack was subdued with his opinions, Monica let her feelings be known. That while she did not like what the king and Parliament were doing, she felt that things could be worked out and with the way of thinking that Rachel was doing, there would be no hope for peace for either side, if that view were to be proximate.
That started a few more discussions that lasted for half of the night. Jack could tell that Monica and himself were in very good hands. Since Chandler was interested in hearing their opinions and what they thought.
To Jack, Chandler was the best 'master' that they could have gotten. The mere fact that he hated to be referred to as anything except 'Chandler', and that he helped with the work around the plantation, was proof of that. Chandler never tried to put off that he was better than any one of his servants.
Which was a shock to the other well to do families that lived around the area, who thought that anyone with their status helping out the help was scandalous to say the least. Especially Saundra Green, who felt that he should marry and that a wife would help him to see that he would 'act' his rank, instead of below it.
Chandler and Joey even came to visit him at his shop and his house just to talk or to bring the mail over, after the post rider had come. Jack was genuinely interested in what they thought and they were interested in what he thought. Chandler never once tried to tell him how to run the shop and trusted Jack completely. With that kind of instilled trust, Jack felt more loyal toward Chandler.
But no matter how much Jack tried to convince Monica that Chandler was a gentleman and the best thing that could have happened to them under the circumstances, she was still walking around with a chip on her shoulder. And Jack knew that Chandler liked her, and that she did not like him.
***********
While Jack and Monica were doing well at the Bing plantation, Ross was doing great as well. The only thing he worried about was his mother, Judy.
Her mind seemed to be drifting a lot more. She talked about walking to the Thames river to see the duck and to Hyde Park. Maybe to have tea with friends of hers that were over in England. He really got worried when she started talking about having tea with a friend of hers that had been dead for five years. Her mind was no longer there. And her duties were suffering because of it.
One day, he got called into the study. Mr. And Mrs. Green were there, as well as Chandler Bing. He met him one time when he went to church.
"Mr. Geller, do you know why you are here?"
"Is it about the last, er… uh, discussion Miss Green, Mr. Tribbianni and I had concerning the government?" That had happened to be the loudest one yet. During the discussion, Ross could tell that there would be a lot more like that.
Chandler smirked, Mrs. Green huffed and Col. Green chuckled. 'No, Ross." His smile turned into a frown. "It concerns your mother."
"Oh…." He knew there was nothing left to say. They were going to put her into an insane asylum.
"Mrs. Green suggested we put her in a mental hospital." Ross caught his breath in his throat. "Since Mr. Bing happened to be here, he had another idea I want to see if you would think it might work. An exchange of sorts, he has an assistant cook by the name of Janice that he bought at the same time I purchased you and your mother. We trade cooks. Your mother goes and stays with your father and his cook works as an assistant cook at the main house."
"I think that is a wonderful idea, sir."
"I am inclined to agree with you both. Judy Geller would recognize her husband and she would be next to him and maybe that would help her, mentally."
"Worth a try. At least everyone will be happy. Jack is always worried about her and you know that since they are together, she is being well taken care of. And if need be, I will get a doctor to look at her. Don't worry though, I will not send her to a mental hospital. I will make sure of it. My word of honor to you." Chandler explained.
"I think it is a good idea." Ross explained. He might not get to see his mother as much but she would be with his father and see him all the time.
Later on that afternoon, a carriage drove up, Chandler, Monica, Jack and young woman with two bags got out. Ross ran over to greet them. And handed the driver his mother's bags.
As soon as she saw her husband, Judy hugged him. "Jack I am so glad you are back from your business trip, Now we can go back to London and start planning for Monica's coming out party, it will not belong until the season is upon us as you know. And we must make sure that we find a husband for our poor comely daughter."
Monica gasped aloud. Rachel put her hand on her shoulder and shook her head. Telling her to pay no heed. Chandler's mouth was halfway opened. As was Jack and Leonard. Ross just soothed his mom.
"Mom, it is along trip back to London from the college. I hope you do not get too tired."
"Thank you, Ross. Now remember all the family hopes and dreams rests with you. So please do not dawdle with your work."
"Do not worry mom, I will not fail you."
"I know you will not. You are the perfect child." She patted his cheeks and soon, she , Jack, Monica and Chandler got into the carriage for the hour long drive back to the plantation.
Over the next six months, Monica, now fifteen and a half, had changed a lot physically and mentally. She was now almost fully trained on how to run the huge household.
Mary could relax more and start planning her retirement. Mary was 78 years old, and had come over from England with Chandler's grandmother when she was 28. And since Mary had family back in England, she had always planned to go back and live there.
Chandler's feelings for Monica had increased more and more everyday. Whether it was seeing her walk across a room, or hearing her voice when she was talking or even humming when she did not know he was there.
It had started out as crush, but now all he could think about was Monica and how she was doing. It hurt him to see how unhappy she was. He always tried to make her smile. And he felt that his day was not complete without seeing her at least once.
There was no way around it; He was in love with her. He knew that she did not feel the same way towards him. But he kept up the hope that her feelings would change. Hopefully, someday, she would see him, not as her master but as something more. And not just as a friend.
That hope kept him going, until one late, spring afternoon. The sun was fading, and twilight was near. A few stars began peaking out of the remains of the day, and the air began to cool dramatically. During that time, Chandler was walking his mount back from where he was overseeing the wheat planting. A shoe had fallen off his horse earlier so he was taking it to be put back on by Jack.
He had decided to make the trip shorter by cutting through the apple orchard, where the dirt is much softer. He never wanted any living creature to suffer. He knew that the soft dirt of the fields and the orchard would be much easier on the horse's hooves than the rocky ground that covered the shorter route or the hard packed dirt of the main road.
It was then that he saw it. He saw Monica and Jacob Hunt, kissing. He felt his stomach drop and a knot start to form in it. He closed his eyes and swallowed hard. The woman that he was in love with was evidently in love with another.
Finally, to put a stop to the kissing, Chandler cleared his throat and spoke. "Jacob, my horse lost his shoe. Take him and shoe him. And then take him to the stables to be groomed."
Monica and Jacob jumped apart, both obviously surprised that they had been caught. "Uh, yes Chandler." Jacob then ran forward, grabbing the reins and leading the horse back. But not before he kissed Monica goodbye.
As soon as Jacob was out of earshot, Monica turned toward Chandler and frowned at him, "He was given the rest of the day off."
"Well, I gave him a job to do. Your father is not the ONLY blacksmith on this farm. I do NOT want him to get worn out or sick. You see I CARE about your father." Chandler said bitterly, and turned to walk to the house.
Chandler tried to act like what he had seen did not bother him. It was a good thing Joey was not there. Joey could always read him like a book. He would have known immediately that this situation bothered Chandler. Luckily, Joey was overseeing the wheat planting on the south field at the moment.
"Are you trying to say that I do not care about my father?" Monica was furious and she started to follow him back to the main house.
"No, but from now on, Jacob is to stay at his job until your father stops his work. And you are to stay at yours. You are NOT allowed to leave the house until Mary calls it a day. I want you trained to take her place." Chandler knew that he was being unreasonable, but he had let his emotions get the better of him. To try and cover his erratic emotions, he casually took an apple from the tree and started to eat it.
"You mean I am not allowed to take a break, even when Mary gives me one?"
"I didn't say that. You are allowed a break, just not away from the house. Mary needs your help, and I will not have anyone running all over this place looking for you, because you are not nearby."
"But, Mary said--" Monica started, only to be cut off by Chandler.
"You see Monica, no one is better than anyone else on this farm. Everybody's job is important. The blacksmith, carpenter, wheelwright, overseer, field hands, maids, cooks, housekeeper, grooms, laundresses and even the children who help with the smaller chores. Everyone is an integral part of this community," Chandler was determined not to have to see a repeat of Monica and Jacob and what they were doing. If he had to he would stop them any way he could.
"Except you, master. No one is equal to you." Monica stated bitterly. She referred to him by that name that he hated being called so much.
"Monica I own and run this plantation, but I think and know that a lot of the people who work here are better than me." Chandler paused abruptly, and looked off into the fading sunlight with a hardened expression on his face, as he fought back the bitter memories of his youth.
"What's the matter? Could it be that you are really not the wonderful Master that everyone thinks you are?" Monica looked hard at Chandler.
"It doesn't matter," Chandler sighed and shook his head. Determined to change the subject, he looked at the apple he was eating, then tossed it to the ground. "A week and a half tops. Then we can start harvesting them," he said quietly, referring to the apple, "You and Mary will oversee the making of apple butter and the canning of the apples, and then we can store some of them in the cellars and then make apple cider out of most of them. It looks as though we are going to have a good harvest this year."
Monica opened her mouth to ask him another question. But Chandler stopped her, "It's getting dark out, it's time to head back to the main house. I'm sure that there are other people you'd rather spend your evening with," he spat bitterly, and began to walk back toward the house.
Monica silently followed Chandler, all the while wondering what had caused his sudden change in mood. He was obviously disturbed by something, and Monica wondered what it was. She also wondered why she suddenly cared so much about it.
Chandler scuffed the ground with his work boot, angry at himself for letting his emotions take control of him that way. Only two people knew about The Incident, and Chandler was determined to keep it that way.
********
Once a week, Chandler had dinner with the overseers of all the areas of the farm. It served two purposes. One, to get a chance to get to know the people he was entrusting with his livelihood, two, it was a way for everyone to keep Chandler up to speed on the little happenings on the plantation, and to make decisions on what to do about certain areas that were under dispute.
Those that came to the weekly dinner included the heads of the household, Mary and Monica, Phoebe, the head of the kitchen and flower gardens, Joey who was second in command of the farm, and Jack and Gary, who were elected by the tradesmen to represent them. Also in attendance was Duncan McMillan, who was head of the animals and the head groomsman, Thomas Allister, who headed the planting and the harvesting of the fields, Eric Robertson, who was in charge of the docks and all that it encircled from fish, warehouses, and the boats, and Sean O'Rourke, who was in charge of the brewery, winery, and the fields that went with it.
Monica and Jack were both there to learn what went on and how they were run. Jack really did not need to be there, since the representative of the craftsmen was an elected position. Even so, Chandler felt it was a good idea that he be present.
While Jack did not have to be there, Monica did, since she was taking over Mary's job. Monica hated every second of Chandler's so-called "democracy", and made no effort to hide it. For Chandler, the dinner provided yet another opportunity for him to keep Monica away from Jacob Hunt, and near him. Despite his best efforts to be fair, Chandler's emotions often clouded his judgment. It was a dangerous, and scary feeling.
Of course it did not help when they worked together. Especially alone on the accounts. It would happen late at night, in Chandler's study. Monica and Chandler would work for hours to get the books finished.
The books would contain everything from how much a certain crop brought in, the storage bins, the warehouses, the money that was close at hand, what was exchanged, bought and the other valuables on the property. Their was also land agreements, titles, and other important papers. But the book that caught Monica's attention was one that she came across that had only symbols, letters, and numbers. Chandler had accidentally dropped it, while rearranging his desk.
"Master what is this?"
"Monica, I told you to call me Chandler! I really hate….." Once seeing Monica looking in the book he quickly grabbed it from her. "Never mind."
"But…."
"It does not concern you."
"You are a smuggler!" Monica almost shrieked. Chandler put his hand over her mouth.
"Monica, a lot of people are that. The government is going way too far with their demands and this is to help the average man. The taxes they are putting on any of the goods are so high, it is hard for any man to make ends meet. Understand?" Monica shook her head yes. "Will you please not tell anyone?" Monica shook her head again. "Good, now let's get to work." Chandler then took his hand off her mouth. A few minutes later they were back at work.
*****
At the dinner, when no formal guests were there, Chandler threw formality aside and ate with the help in the kitchen, on the very informal pewter plates that his grandmother brought over with her from England. She received them as a bridal gift from her mother and father. Which included plates, tableware, bowls, skillets and other such cooking and eating instruments.
When the plantation did have guests, the fine china was used in the formal dining hall, and the food served was a meat of some kind, a beef roast, or a smoked ham, fried, barbequed, mutton, goat, or roasted chicken, roast duck, seafood, fish or some other meat like wild game like deer or quail. When he and Joey would go hunting. But Chandler made it clear that he did not like turkey, it tired him out too much and he felt horrible after eating it. The only time they served it was to guests and at parties.
There was at the least four different vegetables. They could be anything from green snap beans, green peas, corn, yellow squash, pumpkins, carrots, cauliflower, tomatoes, watercress, mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, greens, onions (white, red or yellow: domesticated or wild), potatoes, sweet potatoes, or some other vegetable.
There was always freshly baked bread, with one or two types of cheese, (usually cheddar) and freshly made butter. The bread was either white, wheat or rye. Sometimes it was made into a regular loaf or for special occasions, it was made into a French loaf or twist.
There was always plenty of wine, milk, cider, lemonade, ale or beer that was made on the farm. Chandler rarely ever bought other wines, preferring the taste of the wines that were home made to those that were from another land. When he did buy imported beverages, they mainly used them for entertaining.
There was always a variety of desserts. With all of the different berries: strawberries, blackberries, red currant berries, raspberries, and blueberries. Not to mention the honey harvesting, maple syrup harvesting and molasses making that the farm did and then the apples, peaches, lemons, certain nuts, limes and other fruit that were turned into tempting pies, cakes, cobblers, tarts, donuts, puddings, and other concoctions. There was virtually no limit on what could be made.
Of course not all of that food was made when it was just the household. Everyone on the plantation ate well, but the giant feasts were saved for the guests. Which hardly ever occurred.
Sometimes even his guests stayed over, when it was late at night, or they had a LOOOONG way to travel. Chandler was never very comfortable with the idea of having outsiders staying on the plantation. It wasn't that he did not like people. He just did not want to be though of as a 'tavern keeper.'
And if they ever had a party, which he rarely did, if ever, they even bought some more food and even spirits. And Chandler would reluctantly open the guest rooms. But the main thing was the amount of food. If Chandler did go to a party, it was someone else's party. Usually, at the Green farm.
But Chandler was very uncomfortable at the Green house as of late, especially now that Sandra Green was trying so hard to set him up with her eldest daughter, Rachel. Chandler thought Rachel was a nice young girl. A little spoiled, maybe, but nice. In short he was more of a friend to her and to her sisters. So anymore, it usually was the Colonel who came to visit him.
Sandra's matchmaking schemes generally fell apart. But, truth to be told, if Chandler just HAD to choose between ANY of the Green girls, he would have picked Rachel. Jill was too young, Amy too much of a spoiled snob, and well Rachel and him were too much like brother and sister. But, he knew that a marriage to Rachel would be nothing more than a marriage of convenience. And Chandler, a hopeless romantic at heart, wanted more.
Chandler knew why Sandra wanted Rachel to marry him. He was one of the richest men of the county and the richest bachelor at that (which came with a lot of influence, and even though he refused to run for any office, he still had very strong political connections) and that made him greatly sought after. Most of those connections was with the hotheads in the colonies. In short those who wanted independence. Something that Saundra did not look too kindly on.
Then there was also the fact that he owned land that sat adjacent to the Green Plantation, and they could incorporate both lands nicely. Which was why she wanted Rachel and him to be betrothed. Since Rachel was the oldest, the lion's share would go to her and her future husband. They would be the perfect match.
Sandra Green would pay Chandler a visit from time to time, with a reluctant Rachel in tow in her most beautiful and enticing dresses. And Sandra would hint around that while Mary was good at her job, Chandler really needed a wife to run the plantation and to give him children.
Chandler did not appreciate the advice. And neither did Rachel. She felt that her mom was trying to sell her as a bone to Chandler for a passive treat. She knew her mother wanted Chandler to marry for money purposes. Chandler could have been the most vile man ever, but that would not have mattered to her mother, as long as he had money and had a certain rank.
Col. Green warned Sandra time and again not to push it, and to let things happen naturally if at all. But, she would not listen. Colonel Green was one of a few guests that Chandler did not mind entertaining.
The men would sit up and discuss politics, while playing chess or discussing a book they had just read or the newspapers or mail that they received for the post riders. They would even talk about the plantations and different new farming implements. To Col. Green, Chandler was just like the son he never had. And Col. Green was like the father Chandler always wanted.
Rachel was the other guest that Chandler did not mind coming. She was more like a sister to him. But lately, everything was awkward between them, thanks to Sandra's matchmaking schemes.
With Chandler's feeling for Monica continuing to go unrequited, Chandler began to wonder just how bad a marriage to Rachel would be. She was beautiful, literate, and she had a fiery passion for politics, something that had always intrigued Chandler. While he had no real romantic feeling for Rachel, he wondered if a marriage of convenience was really the only option he had.
On a cool autumn evening, a couple of months after he had first caught Monica and Jacob kissing, Chandler voiced his thoughts to Joey. The two friends were relaxing in Chandler's study after a hard day of getting the wheat fields ready to harvest.
"Rachel Green?" Joey who had been around her quite a bit as of late felt his heart start pumping hard in his chest.
"Why not? She's smart, and pretty, and…"
"And you don't love her," Joey pointed out. "You both are too much like brother and sister and are NOT marriage material to each other."
"So? Maybe love is a myth for people like me. You of all people should know that people like me don't really deserve—"
"People like you? Chandler, what are you talking about? You are a good person, and if Monica can't see that—"
"That's the thing, Joey. What if she sees what everyone else does not? What if she is right in hating me?"
"She doesn't hate you. And you are letting your feelings for Monica affect your usually keen judgment. Talk to her, Chandler. Tell her how you feel. It can't hurt."
Joey couldn't have been more wrong. Chandler did tell Monica how he felt, and he paid for it dearly. It happened one week later, in Chandler's study, during one of Chandler and Monica's classic arguments:
"You say that you are not my master. And yet you insist on telling me where I can go during my free time. Tell me, Master, how is that fair? Jacob Hunt is good to me. He makes me happy. Why don't you want me to be happy, Master, why?"
"Stop calling me master, Monica! I do want you to be happy, I just…"
"No, Master. You SAY you want me to be happy. But it's easier to keep me under your all-powerful thumb if I am miserable!"
"That is not true. I've done everything in my power to try and make you happy, but nothing I do is good enough—"
"Everything? You keep Jacob and me apart, and that makes me UNHAPPY!"
"Why won't you let ME make you happy? Why won't you let ME love you?"
Monica's eyes widened, and Chandler suddenly felt faint. He stepped back and away from Monica, and stared at the ground intently. Chandler's face turned crimson, and Monica felt her anger and frustration come to a head, as she unknowingly misinterpreted Chandler's statement as one of lust, not love.
"You can not BUY love, Master. You OWN me, physically. But you will never have me mentally and that includes my love. There isn't enough money in the WORLD! I love Jacob, not YOU. I find it difficult to believe that anyone could love YOU!"
Chandler looked at Monica, and Monica suddenly regretted her last statement. She realized then that she had crossed the line, and she immediately tried to apologize.
"Master, I'm sorry, I—"
"Get out," Chandler croaked, his eyes revealing to Monica just how badly she'd hurt him, "Get back to work, Monica."
Monica opened her mouth to apologize again, but Chandler held up his hand to stop her. She nodded slowly, and turned to leave the Study. She opened the door, turning back just in time to see Chandler sink into his chair, deflated and humiliated. Monica walked into the kitchen, and wondered silently what would happen next.
**********
While that was going on with Monica and Chandler, Joey was enjoying all the time he was spending with Rachel. To counteract Ross's readings for one argument, they would read up on arguments and would try and come up with arguments before Ross would. So they could be better prepared.
He loved those times. He got to stay very close to Rachel and talk with her. He could also tell they had the same sense of humor and thought the same way. Rachel would read a book to Joey or letters or newspaper articles. Since she was the better reader. And they would both commit on what they read.
Joey very interested in what Rachel was thinking and Rachel very interested in what Joey thought. She could not help but feel better around him. Since he was truly interested in what she thought. It got to the point that it was not unusual seeing them together
Joey never knew of a girl as smart, passionate ad had as much common sense as did Rachel. He did not care about her flaws. So what if she happens to be a little spoiled? She was just brought up that way. But she never really had a temper. She was just used to getting her way. It would take a man who was patient and understanding to be a good match for the young woman.
Chandler was too quick and unstable for her. They all knew it. What Chandler needed was a girl that might be a little spirited but not spoiled.
All that Joey could see was tracheas falling for her. Not only her beauty, her land and wealth, but also for her strong hard headedness and fiery views about whatever crossed her mind. He was falling in love with the person she happened to be. Not for the material wealth or beauty of the girl.
He just did not know how Rachel felt about him. Although him being the son of a poor barrel maker, he did not think he stood a chance against all the dandies that came a courting.
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Please reviews….ANY reviews….I mean I would hate to try and use blackmail or as I call it, friendly persuasion, to get you guys to review like I have with other fics….