Prequel to a Dream . . . Continued
Part 1
"An Uninvited Guest"
Author's Note
The release of this story will be slightly different than the way I've released other stories. I am a long way from having it finished, but my friend, Barbara, is anxious to know what's going on in our favorite couple's world. This time, the plan is to release the story by chapters, but in parts. The first part includes three chapters and they will be released over the next few Fridays. There could be a long break between releases, but as each part is finished, I will publish it the same way. I don't expect this story to be as long as 'Prequel,' but I never thought that would be as long as it turned out to be either.
A special thank you goes to my beta, Mary. She provides more assistance and encouragement to me than she realizes.
Finally, as always, I do not own the canon characters. They are the property of others more fortunate than I. If you don't recognize a character's name, chances are that one is mine.
Prelude
Boston, Massachusetts
Early June 1869
The Kitty Keane sailed out of Boston Harbor after delivering the last of the cargo it had picked up in Europe. The crew's next stop would be their home port of Schooner Bay, Maine. Captain Daniel Gregg and his first mate, James Horan, were in the wheelhouse.
"We should be home by mid-morning tomorrow. I've got to tell you, I'll be glad to get home," James smiled, thinking of being with his bride, Marguerite. "Do you have plans to see the lovely Mrs. Muir?"
"I can't say I have plans, since I'm not able to ask the lady ahead of time, but I do hope to see her," he smiled. "I'll go over to the Inn first, though, and clean up before I pop over to the office."
"Yes, you'll want to look your best if you're going to be seeing your lady. Although . . . I don't think she'd mind if you didn't clean up first. I'm sure she'll be just as anxious to see you, as you are to see her," his friend winked.
The captain smiled, then returned his focus to the voyage ahead. Left unspoken was his disappointment that he hadn't received any mail from Carolyn, or the family, since leaving Amsterdam. He knew that mail catching up with a ship was hit or miss and, since only a few letters were waiting for the crew in Hamburg, not receiving any mail didn't unsettle him . . . too much. If he had been the only one, it might have concerned him but, with the majority of the men not getting any mail, he just put it down to bad luck.
The Kitty Keane's return to Schooner Bay was at least a month later than expected. When they were docked in Amsterdam, Daniel negotiated a large shipment that would refill the ship's cargo hold and require a detour to Portugal. Instead of sailing home from Hamburg, they headed south to the port of Figueira Da Foz. There, they picked up another shipment and ran into an early storm in the North Atlantic that blew them off course. Despite their delay getting home, the captain and his officers were thankful no men had been lost or injured, and the ship didn't sustain any serious damage.
The crew's outgoing mail had been left with the harbormaster in the Portuguese port with the hope that their letters would make their way to Schooner Bay in a timely manner. It bothered Daniel that, if families didn't receive the mail explaining the delay, not just Carolyn, Martha and the children, but the entire crew's loved ones would be worried.
XXXXX
Schooner Bay, Maine
Carolyn Muir had spent the last few weeks in a state of concern. By mid-May, Daniel had not returned as expected, and she hadn't received any letters from him since he'd left Amsterdam. If it hadn't been for Marguerite and some of the other wives of the ship's crew, she would have been beside herself with worry. The women assured her that it wasn't unusual for seamen to return later than originally planned. Between picking up cargo for additional ports, and unpredictable weather conditions, a mariner's schedule was always changing, and a ship rarely adhered to its original timetable. Even though Daniel had told her the same thing before he left, having it confirmed helped ease her mind . . . somewhat.
She had met many of the wives, families, and sweethearts of Daniel's crew when she and the other officer's wives, Marguerite Horan and Ellie Mitchell, started organizing gatherings for the women. It gave them a chance to get to know one another and provide support through the long winter and spring.
Her two good friends, Sarah and Marguerite, and the other women, helped Carolyn maintain a calm exterior, in general, and around her children where it mattered most. Candy and Jonathan were disappointed the captain wasn't home before they had to go back to school, but they didn't voice any concern that something had happened to him. They simply added another month to their calendar and continued crossing off days but, with each X, they hoped it would be the last one they'd have to draw.
Martha, as always, was steadfast and loyal. She was there whenever she was needed – whether her employer realized she needed her or not. Carolyn was no fool, though. She valued her friend's support more than anyone else's. No one knew her better, no one knew the family's situation better, and no one could read her moods like she did. The young widow knew, without her, they never would have moved to Schooner Bay. She would have never been able to work without Martha serving as a surrogate mother/aunt/grandmother to all three of them. Had it not been for her, Carolyn would never have met Daniel, who had changed their lives in more ways than she could count.
Her closest friend quietly observed the family's reaction to the delay in the seaman's return and was impressed with Mrs. Muir's composure in front of the children. She knew that, privately, the young woman was very concerned for Captain Gregg's safety. Truth be told, so was she. When June rolled around and he hadn't returned, the older woman realized she would not have been cut out to be a seaman's wife. Carolyn, on the other hand, continued to show just how strong she truly was.
Many nights, while they worked on their sewing, the two women talked about the captain, and the young widow's concern for him. She was very aware that the life of a seaman was dangerous, and she admitted she prayed constantly for his safety. Praying brought her solace, but she admitted she wouldn't be able to relax completely until she saw him again.
Carolyn's ongoing concern for him had been brought front and center the previous day. She had nearly fainted when a delivery boy came to the office with a telegram. It was addressed to her at Gull Cottage, but the young man brought it to the office to save a trip up to the house. She was immediately afraid something had happened to Daniel. In her experience, telegrams rarely brought good news, so it was with some trepidation she opened the envelope.
She visibly relaxed as it became clear who it was from. The telegram read:
My darling Carolyn STOP I'm coming up to carry you away with me STOP Hoping to arrive at your village Friday morning on the 11 am train STOP Meet me if you can STOP Yours until eternity STOP Blair
"Well?" her uncle asked anxiously. The arrival of a telegram had unnerved him as well.
"It's from an old friend in Philadelphia letting me know he'll be arriving Friday for a visit."
"Thank goodness for that," he signed in relief. "HE?!"
"Yes. It's from Blair Thompson. I don't know if you know them or not, Uncle. The Thompson's have been friends of Mother and Dad's for as long as I can remember."
"I don't recall ever meeting them," he replied. Then realizing the next day was Friday, he felt it necessary to add, "I hope you don't expect to take the day off."
"No, Uncle," she replied shaking her head. "But I may need an extended lunch to meet him at the station and help him get settled."
"He's not staying with you at Gull Cottage?!"
"Of course not! I'm sure he's planning on staying at the Inn."
"I would hope so!"
"So, may I?"
"May you what?"
Carolyn rolled her eyes.
"Take an extended lunch tomorrow?"
"I suppose so, but I expect you to be back here as soon as possible. I have to be away in the afternoon and don't want to leave the office unattended for long. So, don't dawdle."
"Yes, Uncle."
Chapter 1
Carolyn arrived at the office earlier than usual Friday morning. She wanted to make up some of the time she expected to miss when she went to the train station to meet Blair. When Claymore arrived, he was pleased to find her already at work but, as eleven o'clock approached and she prepared to leave to meet her friend, he still made a point of telling her not to be away too long.
She walked directly to the station and arrived just as the train pulled in. Looking for Blair as the passengers stepped onto the platform, she wondered if he'd had a change of plans; he was nowhere to be seen. When it appeared everyone had gotten off, she asked a porter if he knew of anyone else still on the train.
"Ma'am, are you here for Mr. Thompson?"
"Yes, that's right; Blair Thompson."
"You won't find him in one of these cars, ma'am. He traveled in a private railroad car with his own servant. Here he comes now," the man said, pointing down the platform.
Sure enough, Blair was walking toward her with his valet following behind carrying several cases. When he spotted Carolyn, he hurried toward her. Taking her hands in his he took in her appearance.
"Carolyn, you haven't changed a bit," he said, smiling. "Will you marry me?"
"You haven't changed a bit either," she smiled.
"Well, the Thompson family motto is 'be persistent.'"
"You are that," she smiled.
"I wasn't sure what your situation was, so I've made arrangements at the local Inn, or should I say, the town's only Inn," he said haughtily.
"Well, there are other places to stay, but I think you'll find the accommodations there quite comfortable," she replied, ignoring his implied slight on the town. "Can I help you with your bags?"
"Carolyn, I have Simpson to handle the bags, and he's more than capable. You, my darling, are only required to take my arm and show us the way."
XXXXX
The Kitty Keane arrived in Schooner Bay just before ten Friday morning. As soon as the ship was moored and secured, its officers and crew headed off in different directions; the majority of the men to be reunited with their loved ones.
Daniel grabbed his kit and walked over to the Inn. He was enthusiastically greeted by the innkeeper, who was working the front desk.
"Welcome home, Captain Gregg!"
"Thank you, Mr. Pryor. It's very good to be home."
"I hope your voyage was successful."
"It was."
"Will you be staying with us again?"
"Yes . . . assuming you have a room available."
"Of course, we do. How long will you be in port?"
"I don't have an exact date yet, but not much more than three weeks."
"We'll put you in the back room on the second floor again, if that meets with your satisfaction," he said, turning the guest registry around for the seaman to sign.
"Yes, that will be fine," Daniel replied and then asked quietly, "Mike, would it be possible to have a bath sent up right away?"
"Certainly, Captain. The room is ready, so you can go right up," he replied handing him the key. "I'll have everything brought to your room as quickly as possible."
"Thank you."
XXXXX
Carolyn and Blair talked and laughed together all the way to the Inn and turned quite a few heads along the way. When the Muir's first arrived in Schooner Bay, it had taken weeks for the locals to accept that the young widow had won the heart of the town's favorite son, Captain Daniel Gregg. But, by the time he set sail on his current voyage, no one was surprised when Mrs. Muir stepped into the role of an officer's wife. Although some had a few unkind words to say about her, most realized the young widow was very capable and a good match for the captain. The gatherings she and the other officer's wives organized, to provide support for the families of the Kitty Keane's crew, had earned her a lot of goodwill around town. As the months passed, Schooner Bay residents began to think of her as the seaman's wife, even though she and the captain weren't even engaged. Now, seeing her on the arm of another man in the seaman's absence, was getting a lot of attention.
When they arrived at the Inn, Mrs. Pryor was behind the front desk and welcomed Mrs. Muir, who introduced her to her childhood friend, Blair Thompson.
"Welcome to Schooner Bay, Mr. Thompson."
"Thank you, Mrs. Pryor. Is my suite available?"
"Sir, I must apologize. It seems our reply to your telegram didn't reach you before you left Philadelphia. The only suite we have is our bridal suite. You're more than welcome to use it, or if you'd rather not, we do have another very nice room available."
Blair looked at the beautiful woman by his side and smiled mischievously before turning back to Mrs. Pryor.
"I'm sure the room will be fine."
"Very good, sir," she replied, opening the guest registry for his signature.
Carolyn shook her head at Blair and stepped away while he finished checking in.
Mrs. Pryor handed him the key and told him his room was ready if he wanted to go up now.
Blair thanked her and walked over to Carolyn.
"Will you join me for lunch? It looks like they have a restaurant here."
"They do, and the food is very good," she replied, looking at the timepiece pinned to her dress. "I do have to be getting back to the office, but I can take time to join you."
"Wonderful! Just let me send Simpson up with the bags, and we'll go in."
He called his valet over and handed him the key with instructions to prepare the room and unpack the suitcases.
"Yes, sir," the man replied, taking the key and going up the stairs.
Turning back to Carolyn, Blair took her elbow and led her into the restaurant. Mrs. Pryor came up behind them and showed them to their table.
XXXXX
Daniel, dressed in a slate gray frock coat, black slacks, and a cobalt blue waistcoat, walked through the lobby feeling completely refreshed after shaving, trimming his beard, and having a bath. His hair had gotten long, but he didn't bother with that; it would have taken too long to cut. Nodding to the Innkeeper as he left, he headed straight for the offices of Marley and Ebenezer. The smile on his face left no doubt of his pleasure to be seeing his lady.
When he attempted to open the door, he was surprised to find it locked. He looked through the window, but there was no sign of anyone inside. He stood there for a moment and considered what he should do. Unless things had changed since he'd been gone, it was quite unusual for the office to be closed in the middle of the day. Concerned that something might be wrong, he turned on his heel and headed to the stable.
As he walked through the opened doors of the livery, Quint looked up from what he was doing in the tack room.
"Welcome home, Capt'n!" the young man called out and came over to greet him.
"Hello, Quint! It's good to be home," Daniel replied shaking his hand. "Is Bonhomme here today?"
"No, sir. Mrs. Muir didn't bring him today."
"Oh?"
"No, sir, and she didn't say anythin' about not comin' to town today. I know sometimes her housekeeper comes in with her and the children, to do the shoppin', but that's usually earlier in the week."
Daniel's face didn't give his feelings away, but his concern was turning to worry.
"Quint, do you have a horse I can rent for the rest of the day?"
"Sure. Let me grab a saddle, and I'll bring him around for you."
A few minutes later, Quint returned with a handsome pinto. Daniel thought he looked like a "Kentucky Saddler." The breed was used regularly as an officer's mount during the Civil War. The horse's head was black with a white blaze and, two thirds down his neck, its mane changed from black to white. The rest of the body was mostly black with splashes of white throughout.
"He's a beauty," Daniel said, taking the reins.
"He is that, and even tempered too. His name's Splash."
"That's appropriate," Daniel smiled. "I'll have him back to you tonight. If something comes up, I'll try to get word to you."
"Capt'n, how long are you goin' to be home this time?"
"Less than a month."
"Then, don't worry about when you bring him back. I'm guessin' Mrs. Muir will still be needin' Bonhomme, so you might need your own mount. We'll just consider him yours while your home. We can work out the details when you have time."
"Thank you, Quint. You're probably right. I'll make time tomorrow to discuss the details with you."
"Yes, sir," the young man replied patting the horse's rump as the captain started out of the stable.
Daniel trotted out of town but, upon reaching the main road, he rode swiftly to Gull Cottage. His immediate priority was making sure everyone, and everything, was all right.
XXXXX
After a quick lunch, Blair escorted Carolyn to the office but made no secret of his annoyance she couldn't spend rest of the day with him. When they arrived, she found the door locked and had to dig in her bag for her key. Opening the door, she turned back to her escort.
"Blair, thank you for lunch," she said. "Now, you remember the directions to the stable, don't you?"
"Of course. This town isn't big enough to get lost in, Carolyn. It only has one main street," he commented. "I still don't see why you won't let me take you to dinner tonight. There's got to be another restaurant around here we can go to."
"You're coming up to Gull Cottage for dinner, and that's final. The children and Martha want to meet you."
"That's right. Then, I suppose I'll see you back here at half past five?"
"Yes, please," she said smiling.
"Until then, my dear," Blair said, and kissed her hand.
XXXXX
Daniel arrived at the house and quickly tied the horse to the hitching post by the gate. He was on the porch in an instant and knocked impatiently. Immediately, the sound of Scruffy's barking could be heard. Thirty seconds seemed like an hour as he waited for someone to answer – the pup barking the whole time. He was getting ready to knock again, when the door opened, and the former runt of the litter came tearing out at him.
"Belay that mate," Daniel commanded, and the dog stopped, cocked his head, and started dancing on his hind legs to be picked up. Accommodating the request, the captain soon found himself inundated with kisses. Still a puppy at nine months, Scruffy was looking very grown up, and it appeared he had become a protector of the family.
"Captain! You're finally home!" Martha exclaimed, obviously happy to see him. "Come in. Come in! We've been worried sick about you."
He put the dog down, but it seemed the pup wasn't finished yet.
"Come along, Scruffy, you can visit with the captain too."
Forgetting his concern for a moment, Daniel smiled as she stepped aside to let him in the house and then pulled him in for a heartfelt hug. Hugging her in return and kissing her check, he smiled her.
"Hello, Martha. It is good to be home." Then, turning serious, asked, "Is everyone all right?"
"Of course, they are. Why do you ask?"
"I stopped at the office, and no one was there. The place was locked up tight," he said with concern.
"Oh, that's nothing to be worried about. Mrs. Muir was probably at the train station meeting her friend, and that skinflint uncle of hers had an appointment away from the office. Last night, she told me he gave her a difficult time about the business having to be closed while she went to the station."
The captain's relief was obvious.
"And you're fine, and the children are well?"
"Yes, we're all in perfect health."
"That's good to hear," he smiled. "And I see Scruffy is growing into quite the watch dog."
"Yes, he does like to bark, but he is very good at keeping an eye on everyone, and he's nice to have around to talk to when I'm here by myself," she chuckled. Looking at him closely, she said, "You look like you survived the voyage. I hope it was successful."
"Yes. It was a profitable trip."
"Good! Have you had lunch? I was getting ready to fix myself something and would enjoy having your company."
"I haven't had anything since early this morning. I was hoping to eat with Carolyn."
"Well, I'm sure she's already eaten by now. Come through, and I'll fix something. It will give us a chance to catch up," she said, leading the way. The captain, with Scruffy at his side, followed obediently.
Having been at sea for so long, the aromas coming from the kitchen hit Daniel immediately. There was nothing like Martha's cooking to make a man happy to be home. Well, that and the love of the rest of his family.
"Martha, whatever you're fixing smells delicious."
"Oh, that must be the pies. I had to get them out of the way early so I could put the roast on later," she explained. "Have a seat, Captain. Can I get you something to drink?"
"A glass of water would be most welcome."
Setting it in front of him, she gave him his choices for lunch.
"Now, we have left over fried chicken from last night, or you can have some nice cheese I picked up from Mr. Taylor the last time I got eggs or, if you'd rather have breakfast, I could cook up some bacon and a few of those fresh eggs for you."
"My dear woman, I will have whatever is easiest for you."
"None of it's difficult to prepare, but since you put it that way, I'll get you the chicken. It's cold, but it's better than cheese, and it requires less cleanup than fixing breakfast," she smiled. "While I get the food out, you can set the table."
Smiling at being put to work so quickly, the seaman did as he was told, and the two talked comfortably while the food was laid out. Scruffy chose to follow Martha, hoping something would fall his way. In addition to the chicken, she put the cheese on the table, along with a loaf of fresh bread and butter and, one of the captain's favorites, apple butter.
After he'd taken the first few bites, their conversation continued.
"We all enjoyed your letters, Captain, but I have to tell you, we haven't heard a word in months. Where have you been?"
"I was afraid that would happen. Where did the last letters come from?"
"The last packet came from Amsterdam."
"That long ago? I know the mails are hit or miss, but that was in January. I hope Carolyn . . . all of you . . . weren't too worried about me."
"Now, what do you think?" she asked dryly.
"I'm so sorry, Martha. Well, something obviously went wrong. I didn't receive any mail after we left Amsterdam and neither did most of the crew."
"You don't have to apologize, Captain. It's not your fault," she said, patting his hand. "If you haven't had any letters from home since then, no wonder you were so worried about us. Where do you suppose the mail is?"
"I'm sure it's on a ship somewhere and will show up eventually. The packets sent by the crew's families probably arrived in port after we'd already sailed. If the harbormaster didn't know our scheduled ports of call, he would have sent the mail on to Schooner Bay. They keep a record of each ship's home port."
"What about your letters to us?"
"There's no telling when they'll show up. The mail is dependent on a ship's port of call. We hope the bags are given to a ship sailing directly to our home port, but timetables change based on where the cargo needs to go."
"Well, it sounds like a system that needs to be improved upon."
"Aye, it does but, for right now, that's all we have when we're sailing out of the country," he replied.
"I suppose we'll just have to wait until the mail finally catches up with everyone."
Daniel nodded
"So, tell me, how is everyone? I imagine the children are growing like weeds."
"They are. Jonathan grows out of his clothes faster than any child I've ever seen."
"And Candy?"
"She's growing too but, with girls, it's not as noticeable when their skirts or dresses get a little shorter . . . Unless they get a lot shorter," she chuckled. "And, of course, you've noticed the change in Scruffy. Thank goodness we don't have to worry about clothes for him."
The dog had given up any hope of a morsel falling his way and was lying in his basket.
Daniel smiled and nodded, but Martha knew he really wanted to ask her about Carolyn.
"You haven't asked, so I'll tell you. Mrs. Muir is not growing at all, but she is just fine."
That made Daniel laugh.
"I've missed you, Martha."
"Thank you, Captain. I've missed you too, and so has this family."
He smiled and nodded a silent thank you for the answer to the question he hadn't asked.
"I take it the children are back in school since the spring planting is in the ground?"
"Yes, and Candy and Jonathan weren't the least bit happy you missed their break."
"I'm sorry about that, but there wasn't anything we could do. I'll just have to make it up to them."
"I know one way you could start."
"Oh?"
"If you don't have anything pressing, this afternoon, they get out of school at three. You could take the cart and bring them home."
"My time is my own today, and I'd be happy to pick them up. What about Carolyn? I know she didn't leave Bonhomme at the stable. How will she get home? Surely, she's not planning on walking?"
"No, no, no. I rode into town with everyone this morning to do some shopping. Mr. Thompson will bring her home."
"Mr. Thompson? Blair Thompson?! He's the friend she met at the station?! Why is he here?!"
"I-I really couldn't say. Mrs. Muir received a telegram from him Wednesday. . . out of the blue. It only said he would arrive today," she explained. Seeing the look on his face she quickly added, "He's coming for dinner tonight, and I think he's staying at the Inn."
"You think? You're not sure?!"
"Captain, he certainly couldn't stay here, now, could he?"
"I should say not!" he answered a bit too loud.
It only took one look from Martha for him to regret his tone.
Taking his watch out of his pocket, he tried to lead the conversation on a different path.
"Do you mind if I stay here until it's time to go for Candy and Jonathan?"
"Of course not! I always enjoy spending time with you," she told him. "You never have to ask."
"Thank you, Martha. I feel the same way about you," he said, smiling. "If I'm going to be here for a while, I better take the horse to the barn and get him settled. I might even take a walk around the property."
Taking his glass and plate to the sink, he headed toward the front door with Scruffy following every step of the way. When Martha called his name, he stopped.
"Captain. I'm so happy you're home, and Mrs. Muir and the children will be too."
"Thank you, Martha. That's good to know."
XXXXX
After settling Splash for the afternoon, Daniel spent time with Bonhomme. He was pleased to see his friend had been well cared for in his absence and, taking off his jacket and waistcoat, he picked up a brush and began working on the horse while he talked to him. After the worry of not receiving any mail, then coming home to learn Blair Thompson was in Schooner Bay, he didn't know what to think. Talking aloud helped him sort things out when something was troubling him, and it helped that Bonhomme was such a good listener.
The issue of the mail was exactly as he thought and, based on what Martha told him, he had no reason to be concerned that Carolyn's feelings had changed. He didn't know why he'd let his thoughts go in that direction. She had never given him any reason to doubt her, and the last letters he did receive had left him feeling that all was well in his world.
After reading the journals Carolyn had given him, he was aware of who Blair Thompson was. Before she had married her husband, her former beau had proposed to her more than once and had been turned down each time.
"Why would he come all the way to Schooner Bay if not to ask her for her hand again? If he was serious in his intentions, why didn't he proposed to her before she left Philadelphia?"
The question caused his horse to look at him.
"Maybe he was waiting for her mourning period to end before asking again. Even so, why would anyone continue to propose to a woman after being turned down multiple times? He must think she's desperate and willing to settle for anyone. It's either that, or the man is a completely daft. Knowing what I know of him through Carolyn's journals, I think I'll go with the latter. What do you think?"
The horse chose that moment to nod his head and sigh, causing the seaman to chuckle.
"I'm glad you agree."
After talking it all out with Bonhomme, the captain felt much better and went for a walk around his property to see what changes six months had wrought.
XXXXX
By the time he returned to the house, Martha was busy with the dinner preparations and had Scruffy's full attention. Daniel offered to help but was given a definitive "no." Instead, he sat at the table, and they talked like the old friends they had become; each thoroughly enjoying the other's company. When dirty dishes began to pile up, ignoring her protests, he washed, dried, and put them away.
Eventually, it was time to get ready to pick the children up from school. After promising Martha he'd bring them straight home, the captain kissed her cheek and headed out to the barn.
XXXXX
Blair Thompson spent the afternoon walking around Schooner Bay. He couldn't imagine what Carolyn saw in the place. It was obviously a seaport, and a small one at that. Except for a cod liver oil plant he smelled long before he saw, there didn't seem to be any other industry to support the town's residents or, at least, he hadn't seen any evidence of it. There was the Inn, which was marginally acceptable, another restaurant who's 'Shore Dinner' and clam chowder seemed to be its only claim to fame, and a saloon at the end of the main street that looked like every other saloon he'd ever been in.
The town didn't appear to have any cultural amenities at all, unless you counted the brothel, which, according to a man trying to drum up business outside the saloon, was just outside the town limits.
'How can Carolyn stand living in a place like this? There's nothing here! There's no history at all, while Philadelphia easily lives up to its claim as the birthplace of America. There's no theater, no museums, nothing like the Assembly Building, where you can attend a ball with a proverbial who's who of Philadelphia's elite in attendance. The largest building in this place looks like a town hall that might hold a hundred people . . . if they're lucky. I can only imagine what their society events are like. Instead of a 'who's who,' it's probably more like a 'who's that?'
'Schooner Bay has nothing to hold her here. She has to miss her family, her friends, and living in a cultured city. That could work to my advantage, and maybe she'll finally accept my proposal," he mused. 'I've got to get my family off my back, and marrying Carolyn is the only way I know to do it.'
XXXXX
Daniel was standing outside Schooner Bay Grammar school when children started pouring out of the building. He was keeping an eye out for Candy and Jonathan but, as it turned out, it wasn't necessary. His mates spotted him as soon as they came outside and ran toward him but, before they reached him, they slowed to a walk and stopped just in front of him.
"Good afternoon, Captain Gregg," they said together, with huge grins on their faces.
Daniel was surprised to receive such a formal greeting, until he saw the other children watching them. The delight in Candy and Jonathan eyes, despite their greeting, made him suspect they were only trying to protect themselves. In his day, any show of affection toward an adult, in front of classmates, was looked down upon. It seemed some things never changed.
"Hello, children," he said, smiling. "Martha sent me to pick you up so you wouldn't have to walk home. Are you ready to go?"
"Yes, sir!" they replied, following him to the cart.
They both remained quiet as he pulled away from the school, and anyone who might see them. Once they were on the road out of the town. Jonathan spoke up.
"Captain, would you stop the cart, please?"
Daniel looked at the boy to make sure he was all right and pulled over. As soon as he turned toward the children, he was wrapped in a giant hug from both, which he happily returned.
"Welcome home, sir!" Jonathan nearly shouted.
"We're so glad you're home!" Candy added.
"Thank you. Thank you, both. A man couldn't ask for a better welcome."
"We're sorry we couldn't greet you the way we wanted to back there, but some of the kids would be really mean and make fun of us if we did," Candy explained.
"Yeah, Danny Shoemaker isn't happy unless he's picking on someone."
"And if Penelope Hassenhammer isn't picking on someone, she's talking about them."
"I understand completely. I wouldn't want either of you to be picked on but, at the same time, I don't want you to let people, especially those two, influence the way you live your life. I only want you to be the best 'you' you can be," he told them.
"Yes, sir."
"But I do understand how hard it can be sometimes. I'll tell you what, if we're ever in a situation like that again, we'll do as we did today; say a polite 'hello' and save our normal greeting when there aren't any spying eyes around. Will that be all right?"
"Yes, sir!"
XXXXX
As soon as they arrived home, they took Bonhomme to the barn and were soon joined by Scruffy, who welcomed them home. Daniel watched as Candy and Jonathan unhitched the horse and checked on his feed and water. Together, all three of them gave him another good brushing. When they finished, the children wanted to do the same for Splash, whom they'd been introduced to and taken an immediate liking to.
When both horses had been tended to, Daniel and the children made their way to the house. Scruffy knew the routine and led the way. Candy and Jonathan were more than ready for their after-school snack, and the pup was ever hopeful. Martha did not disappoint them. When she saw them coming from the barn, she put a plate of fresh cookies on the table and a glass of milk for each of them. Scruffy was rewarded with a small piece of chicken in his bowl.
The children, and their faithful dog, came through the back door, followed by the captain, who was carrying his coat over his shoulder, had his waistcoat unbuttoned, and his tie in his hand.
"Everyone, wash your hands. Captain, give me your coat and tie, and your vest if you want. I'll hang them up for you. It's too warm outside to be so dressed up," Martha offered.
"Thank you. It is hot," he replied, handing them over.
"Yes, we wouldn't want you to get too wrinkled before Mrs. Muir gets home to see you in your splendid finery."
He winked at her as he joined the children at the sink.
They were drying their hands when she returned.
"Martha, please sit down and join us."
"I suppose I could use a break."
He smiled and bowed.
"Madam, we have a lovely table for you right here," he said, pulling out her chair.
"Thank you, sir."
While they ate, conversation and laughter filled the air. They all felt that life was back the way it was supposed to be. When the cookies were gone and the glasses empty, Daniel and the children washed the dishes and were quickly shooed out to the room. Leaving through the utility room, Candy and Jonathan made a suggestion on what they could do.
"Let's go down to the pond!" the young girl commented.
"Yeah! Let's go skip stones. We want to show you what we learned while you were away," her brother added.
"If that's what you wish, then it's off to the pond we go."
"Come on Scruffy," the children called out.
XXXXX
Blair Thompson pulled up in front of the office of Marley and Ebenezer just before half past five and went inside. Carolyn introduced him to her uncle, and after a few minutes of small talk, they said goodbye and left for Gull Cottage.
Claymore had been impressed with Mr. Thompson. Based on his superior attitude, the way he carried himself, and the quality of his clothes, the miser was sure the man came from money. If his parents were friends of his sister and her husband, chances were, the Thompson's were very wealthy.
"I should have invited myself to dinner. You never know when a deal can be reached and money made," the businessman thought to himself.
XXXXX
Carolyn and Blair arrived at Gull Cottage just before six. She showed him into the house and called for the family.
"Martha! Kids! I'm home, and I've brought Mr. Thompson with me."
"I'll be out in just a minute, Mrs. Muir," her housekeeper called from the kitchen.
"Blair, go ahead and make yourself comfortable," she said, showing him to the living room. "I'll see where everybody is."
He grabbed her hand before she could leave and kissed it.
"Don't be too long. I miss you when you're gone."
Carolyn took her hand back, giving him an odd look as she left the room.
Martha met her in the hall.
"Mrs. Muir, I expect the children to be back any time; they went down to the pond to skip stones. May I speak to you for a minute, there's something you should know . . ."
"Oh . . . Well, that's fine," Carolyn said distractedly
"Mrs. Muir, I have something to tell you."
"Whatever it is, you can tell me later," Carolyn said in a hurry. "Come with me. I'd like to introduce you to Blair Thompson."
At that moment, the children came barreling in through the kitchen with Scruffy on their heels. Martha looked behind them, expecting to see Captain Gregg, but he nowhere to be seen.
"Hi, Mom!"
"Hi! Did you have a good day at school?"
"Yes, ma'am!"
"And we had an even better time after school!" Jonathan told her, sharing a smile with Candy.
"Wonderful! You can tell me all about it over dinner. Right now, I'd like you to meet Mr. Thompson," she said as they filed into the living room. Seeing a stranger in their home, Scruffy began to bark.
"Scruffy, stop that. This is our friend, Blair," Carolyn tried to convince him.
The dog stopped, but sat at their feet, ready to protect his pack at all costs.
"Blair, I'd like to introduce you to my family," she said putting her hands on her son's shoulders. "This is Jonathan."
The boy put his hand out.
"Jonathan," he said, grasping the small hand – surprised by his grip.
"How do you do, Mr. Thompson?"
Blair smiled and then addressed the little girl, standing by her mother.
"And this must be Candace," he said, leaning down to kiss the young girl's cheek. Scruffy let out a low growl, until the stranger stepped away.
"Martha Grant, this is Blair Thompson."
"How do you do," she greeted him with a smile.
"Martha is my cook, housekeeper, gardener, nursemaid, companion, and friend."
"And it's only a part time job," Martha added.
Blair looked at the two women with a puzzled expression.
"All right, kids. It's time for you to wash up before dinner. You too, Scruffy," Martha said, herding them out of the living room. "Mrs. Muir, when you have a minute, I'd really like to speak with you."
Carolyn nodded, but Blair took her hand to keep her in the room with him.
XXXXX
The children went to the sink to wash their hands, while Scruffy stood by the door, keeping an eye on the stranger in the living room with his mistress.
"Where's the captain?" Martha asked.
"He went to the barn to check on something," Jonathan told her.
"He's not leaving, is he?"
"Of course not! He hasn't even seen Mom yet," Candy replied. "Won't she be excited to see him?!"
"I'm sure Mr. Thompson will be too," Martha mumbled to herself.
XXXXX
In the living room, Blair was dominating the conversation.
"You don't know the trouble I had tracking you here. No one in Philadelphia seemed to know where you were."
"Well, I wanted to make a fresh start."
"A fresh start doesn't mean you have to cut yourself off from everyone."
"No . . ."
"In fact," he said, interrupting her, "You can make a fresh start with someone you've known all your life."
XXXXX
The captain came in through the back door and joined the children at the sink. As he dried his hands, he looked at Martha.
"Have you told Carolyn I'm home?"
"No. I haven't had the chance," she said, stirring a pot on the stove. "Do you really think Mrs. Muir would still be out there, with him, if she had any idea you were in here?"
"I would hope not," he said, smiling.
She held his coat while he tied his tie and buttoned his waistcoat. When he was ready, she handed him the coat and all three of them watched as he finished sprucing himself up. When he was satisfied, she nodded her head approvingly.
"Captain, you look wonderful," she smiled. "You may as well go in there now; we know how anxious you are to see her."
"Yeah!" Jonathan said, putting in his two cents.
"Mom's going to be so surprised!" Candy added, her face shining.
"Before I do . . ." he said pulling his ear. "Maybe we should downplay the fact that your mother and I . . ."
"Love each other?" Candy asked, smiling.
"Well . . . yes . . . unless your mom indicates she wants to tell Mr. Thompson, or he already knows."
"Like how we didn't tell Gramma and Grampa about you right away?" Jonathan asked.
"Exactly like that."
"Captain, I think we can keep your secret, but I don't know about the two of you," Martha remarked.
"Madam, I don't know what you mean," he smiled and turned to go.
"Just watch those longing gazes you two like to share."
Daniel winked, pulled down his cuffs, straightened his coat one last time, and walked into the hallway with the dog walking beside him.
XXXXX
As he approached the living room, he couldn't help hearing Blair Thompson prattling on and stopped to listen, but he almost laughed when Scruffy stopped and cocked his head too.
"Carolyn, you're much too pretty to be wasting your life in this place. Why, this wouldn't even make a good guest cottage on the Cape."
"Blair, how can you say that? This is a beautiful house . . . I love it here . . . and so do the children. 'One day' it will be the perfect home for us."
"But why wait for 'one day,' when I can give you the life you left behind, and so much more now?"
"Because everything I want is right here."
"I don't understand you," he said, then swept his arm around the room. "Look at this place. It's like a corner in some old sailor's home." Then, noticing the portrait of Daniel, he practically smirked, "Is this your landlord . . . the captain?"
"Yes, it is . . . He designed and built this house."
"Poor ole duffer, he'd be lucky to get hired to build a potting shed at home."
Outside the room, Scruffy growled low, and Daniel patted his head.
"Blair . . ."
"My dear, you must know why I'm here. Robert's been gone over three years now. Don't you think it's time to leave your mourning behind and look to what the future could hold for you?"
"I am not still mourning, and I am perfectly happy where I am!"
Letting out a sigh of frustration, Blair stood in front of her.
"Carolyn, I want you to listen to me, seriously. What I'm about to say could be so important to you, to the children, to . . ."
"Blair, please . . ."
Scruffy growled louder.
"Let me finish," he interrupted her, again, taking her hand. "Carolyn, will you . . ."
His question was cut off by a cough coming from the doorway, and a man's voice.
"Mrs. Muir, I do beg your pardon."
Blair turned to see a very tall, bearded man standing just inside the room. Looking at the stranger, then at the imposing portrait over the mantle, and back, the man's identity registered just as Carolyn call out the man's name.
"Captain Gregg!"