Chapter Seven

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A Shadow

A charcoal cloud cast a deep shadow over Hope Valley. The weather system was perfectly timed to the atmosphere of the town as the train departed. The excitement of a new adventure was all for the Grants, but for those left behind? There was a hole, an emptiness where there used to be life, love and friendship with Nathan and Allie. The Grants had found a place in the hearts of many in Hope Valley, Nathan by his quiet strength, gentle kindness and humble service and Allie by her joyful exuberance, delightful laugh and winsome ways.

As the townspeople turned away from the station, they felt the shadowed chill and their conversations contained a shared and sorrowful understanding. Without any explanation from Nathan or Allie, the citizens who were their friends knew why the Grants had to leave. They even agreed with their decision, in spite of the personal loss of their friends. Still, even with understanding, they grieved.

Yet, melancholy fell more heavily on three men, Lee, Joseph and Bill. Lee had to stand by once again as his hurting wife was called upon to support her friend, with no return.

Joseph had to comfort and encourage a sorrowing town tomorrow when he felt inadequate to the task. Plus he had to help Elizabeth Thornton or at least pray she find the help she needed…

Bill had a new Constable to back-up as required, but today he had deliveries to make and he felt the weight of the task. He nodded to Constable Martin as he scanned the train station platform.

Spotting Joseph, Bill caught up with him and asked if he could stop by the Judge's office as Nathan had left something there for him. The two men walked side-by-side but silently into town, down the street and into Bill's office. Bill walked to a cabinet drawer and lifted out a wrapped package and a letter addressed to Joseph. "Nathan requested I give these to you after the train departed. I have similar items to open myself, but prefer to do so alone."

Joseph nodded his thanks, not certain if he trusted his voice. As he approached the door, Bill stopped him.

"Oh, Joseph? Nathan told me what happened with Elizabeth. He left me a brief note for her that he wrote days ago. I am to deliver that to her as well. In light of her behavior the past few hours, would you advise me to wait on that?"

"I would wait, Bill. She is in no state to grasp anything new right now." Joseph looked down at the floor. "I don't know when she will be ready. Honestly? After today? I wish I knew what the note said to be better prepared for her reaction."

"I know, Joseph. Nathan left it unsealed for that reason. Do you want to read it?" Bill offered. "Then we can both decide the best timing."

"Not now, Bill. It's obvious to me she won't be ready in the immediate future. I'll get back to you on that though." Joseph lifted the gift and letter. "Thank you." He waved as Bill followed him to the door.


Locking the office door and pulling the blinds closed, Bill ignored the paint and brushes scattered around the room. His office had served as the art department for the afternoon's farewell. Retreating to his desk, Bill opened the drawer and lifted out his gift and letter. He took a sip of lukewarm tea, left from earlier in the day, and made a face. "Blech!" He leaned forward, letter opener in hand, and opened the envelope addressed to him in Nathan's neat handwriting. He read.

'Dear Bill,
This letter is insufficient to recognize the debt of gratitude I owe you as my colleague, mentor and father, friend and brother. From our first day we found a way to depend on each other's strengths in strategy and skills in problem-solving in the case of the payroll robbery. In spite of our desk competition, it was a great beginning to a great relationship. Because of that relationship, Hope Valley has remained safe in spite of the actions of those who have wished to destroy its peace.

Thank you for sharing your expertise with me and for your support and encouragement. You'll never understand how much I needed to know I had someone on my side, and the inquiry (and that obstinate chair) proved your loyalty! Thank you, Bill. My heart has warmed every time you have called me 'Son.'

Besides Allie, of course, you've been my greatest blessing these past few years and due to your previous relationship with the Thorntons I recognize that has not always been easy. Thank you for becoming a valued family member to both Allie and me. We hope you find your way to visit Regina soon! 'Uncle Bill,' you will always have a place at our family table.

Please deliver the letter to Elizabeth after the train has departed. I have purposely left the envelope unsealed as you may wish to know what I have written. I have already told her what I needed to say over the past few years, although it is not my responsibility that she chose not to hear it. I can no longer answer her questions. I have always apologized. She has never done so. It would be unhealthy to remain where I am subjected to her verbal assaults and I must protect Allie as well.

You have heard my side of our interactions so if the time ever comes that Elizabeth is in the place of truly listening, contrite and with a desire to grow and learn, you may tell her what might help her understand and find peace. I no longer hold you to keep my confidences and I trust your discretion.

And now, the plan that God has laid out is upon us. We depart in a few days. I am left to wonder at the 'what ifs' but with God's help I am trusting Him with tomorrow and endeavoring to look ahead, with the lessons learned tucked in my back pocket.

I pray God's very best for you, Bill, and will be forever grateful for you.

Faithfully yours,

Nathan'

Bill sat staring but unseeing. As a former Mountie and a mature man, Bill did not allow himself to express much emotion, except when it came to the Thornton's, Nathan and Allie. Today, in the privacy and silence of his locked office, Bill put his head in his hands and let the tears flow.

After a few minutes, he retrieved his handkerchief and wiped his eyes, then turned his attention to the wrapped package Nathan had left. Tearing off the ribbon and paper, Bill looked down at a carved plaque.

The friend anguish reveals is the slowest forgot. Emily Dickinson

Bill brushed his fingers over the carved letters as he let the sentiment sink in. This message from Nathan had deep meaning. Not just the beauty of the hand-carved words, but what those few chosen words meant to Bill and Nathan. 'A friendship forged in pain is not easily forgotten.' Bill paraphrased then pondered the message even as he admired the craftsmanship.

Lifting his eyes Bill roamed the room, searching for the best place to hang this remembrance. He wasn't home enough to want it there. This office was where he would see it the most. Bill decided to bring a hammer and nail on Monday to hang it right above the front doors. 'Perfect.'

Realizing he needed to get something to eat, Bill rose and collected the envelope and gift he had to deliver to the Coulters. He saw a light on in the Village Voice and Coulter Lumber offices and decided to head there first.

"Come in." Lee's voice invited Bill in.

"Hey. Sorry to bother you, but I have a delivery from Nathan. He asked me to see that a few letters and gifts were delivered after the train departed. There is a letter and package for you and Rosemary and a letter for Rosemary for the Village Voice. He said something about a promised article?"

"Oh, yes. Rosemary has been holding space for that and wants to publish as soon as she can." Lee sighed. "Unfortunately, she is with Elizabeth. Who knows who long that will be?"

Lee sank back into his chair and allowed exasperation to cross his face. He continued. "I'm sorry Bill. I am just annoyed. Rosemary has been so faithful to Elizabeth, but been treated so poorly for so long. You know? And now? Rosemary is sucked in to deal with Elizabeth's issues again. I'm sure I sound unkind. But you and I both know how we loved Jack and supported Elizabeth for his sake. We all grew to love her and Little Jack. But things are different, Bill. Elizabeth is different… And the worst part is that I don't even like her now, let alone feel any love for her." Lee put his head in his hands.

Having seated himself in the chair facing Lee's desk, Bill sighed. "I understand, Lee. My commitment is to Little Jack, who I ache for. But Elizabeth? She is willfully allowing Lucas to influence her. It's not for the good either. Lately I've been thinking, if Jack could see her now and see her choices and behaviors he would be scandalized." Bill gulped. "I know that's a strong word, but I mean it. Her behavior is not fitting for a schoolteacher, a mother or an upright Christian woman. Honestly? I am ashamed of her. All that kissing? It's not love, Lee. It's… I don't even want to say it…" After some moments of silence, Bill added. "I'm actually glad that Nathan has moved away…"

Lee looked up at Bill. "I agree, Bill. Once I got used to the idea, I realized Nathan is better off far, far away. He is too good for her. But what do we do? I mean I'm chair of the school board. What do I do? It's not good for the students and I've heard whispers from parents. I have just chosen to ignore them, but I can't do that forever."

"In that case, this problem is way bigger than I thought." Bill paused. "Do you know what happened at the school today? Before Nathan left?"

"Rosemary gave me a brief idea before returning to the Infirmary. It sounds like Elizabeth got hysterical."

"Lee. I think it is more than that. Nathan described it as a nervous breakdown and summoned Faith. Elizabeth may not be fit to teach for a while, so that may solve one problem, although introduce many more…"

"I hadn't thought of that!" Lee admitted. "I assumed she just had a crying fit. What you're saying is much more serious."

"Who has Jack?" Bill suddenly asked.

Lee's eyes widened. "I don't know! We're usually the back-up babysitters for Jack. I guess I should go check on Rosemary, pick up some dinner and head home to see what's what." Lee stood. "Thanks for these." He stuffed the package and envelope into a briefcase, then grabbed his coat.

"Lee. Let me pick-up some dinner. I'll check on the ladies and get a meal for them and you and me." Offered Bill. "I'll be over within the hour, okay?"

"Sounds good. Let's head to the Infirmary together."


Faith and Rosemary stepped onto the porch when the men knocked. Faith took the lead. "Elizabeth is not doing well. She is staring into space, though I know she can see by her reflexes. She is not speaking or showing much emotion at all. Her vital signs are showing signs of stress. Her blood pressure is lowered, and her heart rate is elevated much as it would be if you are frightened. I can't send her home like this and she is not fit to care for Jack. Do you know who is with him?"

The men shrugged their shoulders. "I was stopping to see what your plans are, Rosie, then heading home to check on Jack." Offered Lee.

"I'm going to get meals for all of us at the Café and will deliver them back to you shortly." Bill explained. "Are you all staying with Elizabeth or what?"

Rosemary explained. "Fiona stopped in and she and Faith and I will take turns and stay with Elizabeth tonight. They were just saying I should stay first, so I can be up with Jack in the morning. Can you bring my dinner here, Bill?"

After the arrangements and times were settled, Bill headed to the Café and Lee drove home to the row houses.


Seeing a low light on at Elizabeth's Lee knocked then, when no one came, used the key to enter. All was quiet, but he saw the note in front of the lamp. 'Taking Jack to the Canfields because I needed to get home to my father. I'm sorry, but I wasn't expecting Mrs. Thornton to be so late. Laura C.'

Lee let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. He took Laura's note, turned off the lamp and headed to his house to leave a note for Bill before going to the Canfields.

Joseph answered the door and welcomed Lee.

"Uncle Leeeeee!" Jack ran over, arms outstretched.

"Hey, Buddy! How's my big boy, Jack?" Lee squatted and hugged Jack. He looked up at Joseph and Minnie standing nearby.

Speaking in coded language, Lee explained 'E will stay overnight at Faith's office. Fiona, Faith and Rosemary will take turns staying with her and I'll take Jack home with me. Bill's bringing our dinner and we fellas will have fun together, right?" He whispered to the Canfields. "I'll keep Jack with me overnight. Thanks for caring for him. I'm sorry I never gave it a thought."

"Glad we could help, Lee. Any news on E.?"

"Not really, Awake but not communicating. Staring into space. Vitals are okay although pressure is a little low, so?" Lee shrugged his shoulders and lifted his palms. Lee turned to address Jack. "So Buddy, are you ready to head over to my house?"

"Yay! Bye, Passer Joe. Bye, Miz. Minnie." Waved Jack from Lee's arms.

"Just a moment, Lee." Minnie quickly collected Jack's toys, handing the basket to Lee. "Here you go." Minnie patted Jack's head. "You have a good night with Uncle Lee, okay? We'll see you at church in the morning!"

"We'll include you and the ladies in our prayers, Lee." Joseph assured. "I plan to visit E. after the service." Joseph patted Lee's back and tousled Jack's hair. "God bless you both."

"Thanks, Joseph." Lee stepped down the front steps, then paused. "Joseph? I may need to talk to you this week. I confess I am struggling to feel compassion for E. right now. I'll give you a call?"

"Of course, Lee. Call when you get a chance and we'll find time."

Behind the closed door, Joseph whispered into his wife's ear. "I'm expecting there may be others also needing to talk this week. We need to pray for the caregivers as well."

Minnie patted her husband's cheek, then gave him a hug. "You included, my dear. We all need prayer."

Joseph returned her hug, then asked quietly. "Now that Jack has left, shall I open the letter and package from Nathan?"

"Sure. Why don't you come to the table to do that?"

Joseph sat and Minnie stood behind him, hands on his shoulders as Joseph opened the letter first. He read aloud.

'Dear Joseph,

This departure is bittersweet, as you know.

You are one of the reasons I am sorry to be leaving Hope Valley. Your messages have been provocative and enlightening, powerful and challenging, thought-provoking and reassuring… and sometimes all in one sermon! I appreciate the depth of your messages. I can tell they come from life-experiences and are not just rote, words on paper. You have lived what you preach. I will miss sitting under your wise and Godly words.

You have brought blessed comfort to Hope Valley and to me in particular. Thank you for sitting through my frequent conversations, for as you listened I began to have clarity on many concerns. Since you didn't always use words, I conclude you were always praying and that allowed God to work. Thank you for your sensitivity.

Yet, I must also thank you for your words of wisdom and for confirming my thoughts, especially when dealing with a certain relationship. You have been here in Hope Valley, and for me, for such a time as this!

Thank you for your encouragement and your friendship. I appreciate you! Please keep in touch?

All God's Best for you, my friend, as well as for your dear family.

Nathan'

Joseph looked up at Minnie and both had glistening eyes. He reached for the package and peeled back the paper. "Oh!" Before them was a beautiful wooden plaque carved by Nathan.

The Lord has done great things for us; whereof we are glad. Psalm 126:3 (*1)

Joseph ran his finger over the polished wood then re-read the verse.

"It's beautiful, Joseph." Minnie patted her husband's shoulder. "Where do you want to hang it?"

"Would you mind if I hang it in my office at church for a while? I want to ponder it as I pray and prepare each week. Maybe it will be okay to bring it home in the future, but I'd like it there for now." Joseph looked up at his wife.

"Sounds perfect. I will just have to visit you in your office more often." She kissed the top of his head. "Time to eat dinner now."


At the Infirmary, Bill unpacked two meals. One for Rosemary and one for Elizabeth. Both ladies were seated in chairs on opposite sides of the bed, so Bill placed the plates on the towel that Rosemary had spread between them.

"Thank you, so much, Bill. I appreciate this. We both do." Rosemary sadly nodded at Elizabeth who sat unmoved.

"Elizabeth? Here is your meal. You need to eat to keep up strength." Bill said quietly. "Lee is taking care of Jack tonight, so you don't need to worry about him. I'm heading over there now with meals for the three of us menfolk."

Elizabeth only nodded slightly, but kept silent.

Bill looked at Rosemary and raised an eyebrow. Rosemary shrugged and pressed her lips together. Bill understood her frustration as Rosemary looked at him.

"I'll give Jack a hug from you, Elizabeth. Enjoy your meal." Bill stated as he picked-up the basket. "You're welcome."

Still no response.

Rosemary escorted Bill onto the front porch, closing the Infirmary's door behind herself. "Bill? She's been like this since we brought her over from the schoolhouse. Not a word and no response. I don't know what's happening and I'm worried."

"I am too, Rosemary. I guess all we can do is pray for her, and for Faith and Joseph to have wisdom in knowing how to help her." Bill patted Rosemary's arm. "I guess just sit and read or read to her? Do you want me to get a library book for you?"

Rosemary responded. "Thanks, but I got one before Faith left."

"Do you know when Bouchard is due back?"

"I believe Elizabeth had said Sunday afternoon. I don't know an exact time though. Why?"

"Because as her intended he needs to know everything and take time to sit with her as well as arrange for care for Jack. It is not our responsibility. I intend to keep watch for his arrival." Bill sighed. "He already doesn't like me so I have no problem being the one to remind him of his responsibilities. Anyway, I better get this food to Lee and Jack."

"Right. Thanks again, Bill."

"You're welcome." As Bill stepped into the street, he waved. "I'm praying for you and the other ladies. Thank you for being here for Elizabeth."


(*1) Psalm 126: 3, King James Version, Public Domain