The captain made his way to the porch to wait for Carolyn. There, he found the disagreeable skinflint sitting alone by the door, Marjorie in conversation with Reverend Farley by the swing, and Colm in the yard playing with the children.
"Claymore, will you be joining us on our walk?"
"No. I'll stay here and enjoy the quiet," he replied.
Marjorie, seeing the seaman, excused herself and joined him by the door.
"Captain, do you know if Ralph will be coming with us?"
"Carolyn invited him, but he indicated he'd rather stay here," Daniel replied.
She sighed deeply.
"I suppose I should ask him too," she said, opening the door. "Do you mind waiting?"
"Not at all. Carolyn went upstairs to change her shoes, so it will be a few minutes yet."
"Oh, I hadn't thought of that," she said, looking toward her feet.
"Mrs. Muir, I hope you'll join us. The children are looking forward to sharing their love of the beach with you," he said sincerely, afraid she would change her mind. "We can make sure you don't get your shoes wet."
"Thank you, Captain, but I wouldn't dream of missing a walk with Candy and Jonathan. My shoes can be replaced, but time with the children can't," she smiled. "I'll be right back."
XXXXX
Inside, her agitated husband was pacing in the living room.
"Ralph, we'll be leaving shortly to go for a walk on the beach; won't you come with us?"
He stopped abruptly and looked at her.
"Why would I want to do that?"
"Oh, I don't know . . . to spend time with your grandchildren . . . be a pleasant houseguest for a change . . . or simply enjoy being near the water."
"It sounds like a waste of time to me."
"And I'd say, it will be time well wasted," she replied defiantly.
"Marjorie, what's gotten into you?!"
She looked at him in disbelief.
"Ralph, you know perfectly well what's gotten into me, and I refuse get into those reasons with you again. We've already had that discussion."
"Well, you should know I don't appreciate your behavior."
She could only shake her head at his arrogance.
"I'm sure you don't, but perhaps you should look in a mirror. There are countless things you have done, and still do, that I don't approve of or like, but have lived with without saying a word. You can either endure your disappointment quietly, as I have done for years, or not. I don't care, but I will no longer standby without speaking my mind."
He had no reply, and they glared at each other for several moments. Hearing someone coming down the stairs, Marjorie started to turn but stopped and looked at him.
"Are you coming or not?"
"No."
"You're a fool, Ralph Muir, and I hope someday you come to your senses. Your arrogance and conceit are poisons that have eaten away any goodness or kindness you may have had; if you ever had any," she said and calmly left the room. She wasn't the least bit interested in anything he might have to say in reply.
Carolyn was coming down from the landing as Marjorie came out of the living room.
"I was just changing my shoes and found another worn pair. If they fit you, I thought you might like to wear them down to the beach. It would be a shame for your shoes to be ruined."
"That's very thoughtful of you, dear, but I'll be fine in these. If they get ruined, I have other shoes with me and can always have a new pair made when we get home," she replied. Then, as Carolyn opened the front door, Marjorie looked toward the living room and added, "Besides, he can afford it."
XXXXX
Everyone, except Claymore, was in the yard preparing to go down to the beach when Ralph came out the front door. They took no notice of him, but when he saw his wife's 'old friend' standing next to her, he had a sudden change of heart and hurried off the porch.
Noticing him coming down the walkway, Marjorie turned to acknowledge him.
"Have you changed your mind?"
"Yes," he replied sullenly.
The rest of the group welcomed him politely, but, except for Reverend Farley, they would have been happier if the old grump had stayed at the house with Claymore.
Candy, Jonathan, and Scruffy led the way across the road, and the others followed talking amongst themselves. Ralph started grumbling as soon as he saw the steep, narrow path they were going to take, but one look from Marjorie stopped him from voicing his complaint further.
When they reached the sand, the children decided they wanted to walk down the beach toward the tunnel, so everyone could see it. They also knew it to be one of the best places to replenish their dwindling supply of driftwood for carving projects.
Looking in the direction they'd pointed, Ralph couldn't stop himself.
"Just how far is this tunnel?"
"It's a little over a half mile. Do you see where the rock formation is jutting out toward the water?" Daniel asked.
He nodded.
"There is a natural tunnel that will take us to the other side."
Eyeing the distance, the older man's face seemed to go pale.
"A half mile? Marjorie are you sure you can walk that far?"
"Oh, yes, Ralph. I walk that far, and a lot farther, when I'm out and about in the city."
"Oh."
"Is it too far for you?"
"No! Of course not. I was only concerned about you."
"No need to worry about me; I'll be fine," she smiled. "Shall we go?"
"Yes. Yes, of course," he replied, offering his arm.
As the others made their way through the dry sand, the Muirs lagged behind as Ralph struggled to get through it.
"Marjorie are you sure you want to do this?" he asked, huffing and puffing with each step.
"Don't worry, dear, it will get easier when we get to the damp sand."
"Damp sand?! That'll ruin my shoes!"
"Not any more than walking on a wet footpath."
"Humph!"
He struggled through, and when they got to the damp, packed sand he did find walking easier. The children and Scruffy had run ahead with Colm and Reverend Farley tagging along to keep them company. Daniel and Carolyn walked beside the Muirs; the women next to one another, and the men on the ends. Ralph didn't have much to say, but the woman talked happily about the children and living at Gull Cottage. Daniel's participation was limited, but he was content just to be walking beside his lady. It helped his mood considerably that he wasn't close enough to her father-in-law to feel an obligation to talk with him.
They'd walked about a quarter of a mile, when they came to some rocks, and Ralph asked if they could rest for a minute. The captain and Carolyn immediately agreed; the seaman taking him in with a studied eye. Marjorie looked at him with concern.
"Are you all right?"
"Yes, I'm fine," he groused in annoyance. "I just don't have the time to get out and walk as much as you do. If you don't mind. I think I'll go back to the house."
"Do you want me to come with you?"
"No. I'm more than capable of making my way back. You go with the others so you can see what the children are so anxious to show everyone. You can tell me about it when you get back."
"Ralph, are you sure you don't want me to come?"
"I told you I don't. Now go on; I'm fine. I'd just rather not walk all that way to see a tunnel I have no interest in and then have to walk back."
Marjorie looked at him closely.
"Well, if you're sure."
"I'm sure. Go!"
Carolyn looked to Daniel, who rolled his eyes slightly, knowing immediately what she wanted him to do.
"Would you like me to walk back with you?" he asked.
Ralph gave him a look that would have sent any other man running. The captain just looked at him, indifferently, waiting for his reply. Realizing, again, that the seaman wasn't the least bit intimidated by him, the older man stood up and turned to leave.
"God, no."
"We'll see you when we get back to the house then." Daniel replied to his retreating back.
The three of them watched for a minute as Ralph made his way down the beach. Assured he was fine, Daniel offered an arm to each lady, and they continued in the direction of the others.
"Do you think he'll be all right?" Carolyn asked.
"Oh, yes. I think he just used it as an excuse; he didn't really want to come. I'm not surprised he was out of breath. He rarely walks any further than from the entrance of the Muir Building to his carriage," Marjorie replied.
Carolyn nodded but exchanged a concerned look with Daniel.
XXXXX
As the women and their escort approached the mouth of the tunnel, the children were coming out, carrying several pieces of driftwood. Even Scruffy was carrying a smaller piece in his mouth that he was loath to surrender.
"Hi Grandmother!" Come see what we found," Candy called out.
Marjorie smiled and walked over to them. There, she was treated to an explanation of each piece they'd selected, and what they thought they would carve.
Reverend Farley and Colm came out moments later with a few more pieces.
"Planning on doing some carving, are you?" Daniel asked his friends as they added to the children's pile.
"No, these are for Candy and Jonathan," Reverend Farley explained. Looking around, he noticed someone was missing. "What happened to Mr. Muir?"
"He decided he wasn't up for the walk and went back to the house," Marjorie explained.
"I do hope he's all right," the Reverend replied.
"I'm sure he'll be fine but thank you for your concern."
"Would you like to walk through the tunnel Grandmother?" Jonathan asked.
"Of course! That's why I came!"
"Let's go!" the children said, as each took a hand.
"Shall we, my love?" Daniel asked Carolyn.
"Yes, please," she said, taking his arm again.
"Gentlemen?" the captain said, looking at his two friends.
"Aye, aye, sir," Colm said with a straight face.
He waved them ahead, and he and his lady followed.
Marjorie and the children hadn't gone far when the others caught up with them; Candy and Jonathan were giving their grandmother a detailed tour of the tunnel.
Daniel's opinion of Carolyn's mother-in-law continued to improve as he watched her engage with the children. She was acting as if she'd never seen anything as marvelous as what they were showing her, and her wonder and excitement, as she listened, pleased them no end. For all he knew, this was the first time she had explored a tunnel. It was certainly the first time she'd had two such engaging guides.
Colm was drawn into conversation with the children and shared a story he'd heard about Blackbeard's treasure being somewhere in the area. He held everyone's attention as he skillfully wove his tale with the same excitement and suspense the captain delivered. Carolyn noted similarities in their styles and wouldn't have been surprised to learn that Daniel had obtained some of his skill from his old friend.
When he finished, the group continued through the tunnel, and Colm fell naturally in step beside Margie. As they looked up at something Jonathan was pointing out she tripped, and the seaman quickly caught her arm to keep her from stumbling further.
"Thank you, Colm."
"Are ya sure you're all right?"
"Yes, I'm fine. Thank you."
"I'm glad I was here to help. Would ya be more comfortable takin' my arm?"
"You don't mind . . .?"
"Of course not," he answered, presenting it, which she took without hesitation.
It got darker the farther along they went, especially near the curve, but, as they made their way around it, the light from the opening at the other opening made it easier to see. Candy, Jonathan, and Scruffy ran out into the sunlight, followed by the others, while Daniel and Carolyn were a good bit behind everyone.
Just before reaching the curve, at the darkest point of the tunnel, the captain found himself being pulled into a nook in the wall, where he was met with a kiss.
"My love, what are you doing?"
"If you don't know, I must be doing it wrong," she chuckled.
His chest rumbled as he joined her, but the laughter stopped when he pulled her to him for a scorching response. With little time alone since his return from Boston, they were desperate to take whatever opportunities presented themselves. Momentarily forgetting about the others, they celebrated the precious moment alone with an exchange of warm, moist kisses and gentle caresses they so desperately craved.
"I'm afraid we're going to have to move along before someone comes looking for us," Daniel said softly, taking a step back.
"I know, but please hold me . . . just a moment more," she implored, stepping toward him.
His arms went around her, holding her close, while he silently thanked God again for bringing them together. After a few moments, she looked up at him.
"I suppose we should go."
"Aye," he said reluctantly, giving her another kiss.
Behind them, they heard a familiar cough. Startled, they turned to find Reverend Farley standing a few feet away.
"I do beg your pardon, but the children were wondering where you'd gone," he explained, fighting a smile. "I thought it would be better for me to look for you, rather than send them."
"We were just on our way out, Lucius, but thank you for checking on us," Daniel smiled.
"Yes, thank you, Reverend," Carolyn said, beyond embarrassed at being caught by their pastor, of all people.
Reverend Farley nodded, and they headed toward the tunnel opening.
"Captain, now that your home, I was wondering . . . Is the major 'unknown' still an unknown?"
Carolyn looked at Daniel, who seemed as confused as she was, until he suddenly began to chuckle. A conversation he and the Reverend had shared last fall, before he'd sailed, came back to him. The major 'unknown' he was referring to was how the Muir family would handle his profession and the prolonged absences that came with it.
"I would have to say, it's still somewhat 'unknown,' but it seems appropriate to add that there is light at the end of the tunnel."
The two men chuckled, leaving the lady at a loss as to what they were talking about.
"That sounds promising, then," he said, smiling. "It certainly looked promising back there," the clergyman replied. "You will let me know?"
"You will, of course, be one of the first."
XXXXX
On the way back to Gull Cottage, the men and children were each carrying a piece or two of driftwood. Scruffy had long since lost interest in the one he'd been running around with, but Candy and Jonathan would have plenty to keep them busy for quite a while. Reverend Farley walked ahead with them, enjoying the relaxation that came from an afternoon by the water, away from his usual duties.
Carolyn and Marjorie walked along together, arm in arm, talking about things in general, while the two seamen followed. The men joked back and forth for a while until Colm intentionally slowed his pace to put some distance between them and the ladies.
"Danny, I need a favor."
"Of course. What can I do for you?"
"I'd like some time ta say a proper goodbye ta Margie. I don't think we'll have a private moment once we get back ta the house."
Daniel looked at him with a raised eyebrow.
"Now don't be getting' the wrong idea. It's just that . . . I've enjoyed our time together and would just like the opportunity ta tell her . . . without an audience."
"Especially her husband," the captain said bluntly.
"Aye. He's one arrogant son of a . . ."
"Colm . . ."
"Blast it all; he is! Besides, the ladies are far enough ahead that they can't hear over the surf."
Daniel didn't say anything.
"Margie is the only person I can talk with who remembers that time in our lives with Abbie."
"Is that the only reason?"
"Danny, 'tis not like that."
Again, he just stared at the older man.
"What?!"
"You can't tell me you haven't noticed that Mrs. Muir is a very attractive woman."
"I'd have ta be blind not ta notice . . . but, even if her husband is a son of a . . . sea cook . . . she's married," he replied, not meeting his friend's eyes. "She looks . . . she looks the way I think Abbie would have . . . if she hadn't been taken from us."
Daniel put his hand on his friend's shoulder.
"Come on; let's get you some 'alone' time with Mrs. Muir," he said, taking the piece of driftwood Colm was carrying.
Receiving an odd look from his friend, Daniel just shrugged his shoulders and smiled.
They quickly caught up with the women and walked along beside them. When an opening presented itself, Daniel looked over at Marjorie.
"Mrs. Muir, would you mind if I borrow your companion?"
"Of course not, Captain," she smiled, glancing from the seaman to Carolyn.
"My love," he said quietly. "May I have a private word with you?"
She looked at him with curiosity but took his arm as he led her ahead of Marjorie and Colm.
XXXX
"So, what is this private word you want to have with me?" she asked once they had moved far enough away that they couldn't be heard.
"I wanted to be alone with you, even if we are within sight of everyone. Do you mind?"
"Of course, I don't mind. That's very 'sweet' of you, Daniel," she smiled mischievously. "But . . . why do I have the feeling that's only part of the reason?"
He tugged on his ear, recognizing again that she knew him too well.
"Well?"
"It seems, Colm wanted a few minutes alone with Marjorie, to say goodbye, and wasn't comfortable doing it with everyone around."
"You don't think they . . .?"
"Let's not jump to conclusions. We should look at this as what it is; two friends finding each other again, after a long separation, and enjoying their time together."
"Oh, I won't. I just worry about how Ralph will react. It doesn't take much to set him off."
"Aye," he replied, looking away; his eyes scanning the horizon.
She looked up at him, recognizing the diversionary tactic he sometimes used when he wanted to avoid a subject.
"Daniel?"
"Hmm?"
"What was Ralph so upset about when I came into the living room earlier?"
"As you say, it doesn't take much to set him off."
"So, what did?"
He gazed down at her and hesitated momentarily. Her eyes met his and didn't waver. Once again, he was reminded that he had met his match.
"Your father-in-law took offense when I questioned why he would want to talk to me, when you had already given him your answer to his 'gilt edged' proposal."
"Is that all?"
Daniel groaned.
"Madam, is there nothing I can keep from you?!"
She arched an eyebrow.
"Are there things you want to keep from me, Captain?"
"Not as a rule, but one day . . ." he stopped walking and faced her, running his fingers down her cheek; his total essence revealing the love and desire he felt. "'One day' . . . I may want to keep a surprise or two from you . . . at least temporarily," he finished in an intimate tone.
Carolyn was quiet for a moment, then caressed his beard, earning a kiss on her palm when it came close to his lips.
"Daniel, I look forward to a lifetime of enjoyable surprises from you, but anything related to Ralph Muir most definitely doesn't fall into that category," she smiled at him.
"Blast!" he exclaimed as they continued their stroll.
"What else did you say that upset him?" she asked trying not to show her humor.
"All right; if you must know . . ." he blustered. "Your father-in-law wanted to know what my intentions were toward you and the children."
"And you said . . ."
"I told him, I wouldn't talk about you, or the children, without you being present."
"Ah."
"Aye. He foolishly believes you are not capable of making such an important decision on your own or without his approval."
She considered what she'd been told, then asked one last question.
"Is that all?"
After rolling his eyes, he focused on the beautiful face gazing at him.
"No."
"Well?"
"He offered me a considerable sum of money to end my relationship with you."
She couldn't hide her shock.
"My dear, you can't really be surprised by that. We know he has a history of using his wealth to rid himself of people he deems unacceptable or in his way."
"That is true . . ." she pondered. "What did you say?"
"Are you sure you want to know?"
She nodded slightly.
"I laughed at him," he said quickly, and then added seriously, "Carolyn, you must know there is no amount of money that is as valuable to me as the happiness and contentment I have with you and the children."
"Oh, Daniel," she sighed, leaning into him as they continued to walk.
"So, my love, be forewarned. The storm is bearing down upon us, and I have no doubt we are in for gale force winds and an unpleasant evening."
XXXXX
"I'm so happy for Carolyn," Marjorie commented taking Colm's arm as the young couple moved ahead of them. "She deserves to be happy after all she and the children have been through, and I believe she will be with Captain Gregg."
"Aye, they're well matched. Danny finally found the woman he'd been searching for."
"I wonder what he wanted to talk to her about?"
"Actually . . . I asked him ta help me get a few moments alone with ya."
She looked up at him for an explanation.
"It's not likely we'll have the chance to talk once we rejoin the others."
"I'm sure you're right," she replied pensively, thinking of Ralph and his abhorrent behavior.
"Margie, I wanted ya ta know how much I've enjoyed seein' ya again. 'Tis been a long time since I talked about Abbie . . . and my life back then."
"I feel the same way, Colm. Finding you here has been one of the highlights of the visit. I couldn't agree more about sharing memories of Abbie. Even back in Philadelphia, there's no one left who remembers her. Ralph never knew her or Mama, so he has no interest in talking about them. It's been comforting to reminisce with you about the good times we had and to finally learn what happened all those years ago."
They walked along quietly for a few moments before he stopped and looked out over the water.
"Margie, there's somethin' else I've been wantin' ta tell ya."
"Oh?"
He turned to face her.
"I . . . ah . . . I . . . know 'tis not my place, especially after all these years, but . . . if ya ever need me . . . if there's anythin' I can do for ya . . . I hope you'll contact me. I'll move heaven and earth ta reach ya and be there for ya."
As she heard his words, she was overwhelmed with emotion.
"Oh, Colm," she said softly, looking up at him; her eyes brimming with tears.
A woman's tears were not something he had any experience with, and he didn't know what to say.
"I'm sorry . . . I didn't mean . . . please don't cry . . . I shouldn't a been so bold . . ."r
She took a handkerchief out of her pocket and dabbed her tears.
"Please don't apologize; you didn't offend me."
"Then . . . What? . . . Why . . .?"
She smiled up at him.
"Your concern for me, after all this time, has touched me beyond words. Thank you, Colm. I always knew you were a good man and that Abbie was fortunate to have found you," she said simply, and grasped his hand and squeezed it gently. "It seems you still are."
He looked at her, still unsure, but the gratitude he saw in her eyes helped ease his mind. Slipping his hand in his pocket, he pulled out a piece of paper.
"Margie, 'tis my address. Please take it, and use it, if ya need anythin' . . . anythin' at all . . . or . . . even if ya don't . . ."
She looked at the paper but didn't move to take it right away. He thought he'd misinterpreted her response and, feeling embarrassed, started to put it back in his pocket. Margie gently placed her hand on his arm to stop him.
"May I?" she asked indicating the slip of paper.
He handed it to her.
"I don't want ya to feel obligated," he said quietly. "I shouldn't have . . ."
"Colm, stop. After all these years, it seems you've forgotten a few things about me, and I'm embarrassed to admit I'd forgotten them myself. Back when we were both much younger, if there was something I wanted to do, I could be very persistent. As I recall, on more than one occasion you told me I was as stubborn as a mule," she reminded him.
"'Tis true," he smiled.
"Then, if you're sure about this . . .?" she said, holding up his address.
"Aye."
"Then, Mr. Donegan, I would very much like to keep in touch with you." she smiled, slipping the piece of paper in her pocket. "I think it's time for me to rediscover that stubborn girl," she admitted.
XXXXX
Colm and Marjorie weren't too far behind the others and joined them by the path that would take them back up to Gull Cottage. When Candy and Jonathan saw them coming, they ran to meet them.
"Grandmother, did you enjoy your walk on the beach?" Candy asked.
"I did!" she smiled.
"Wasn't the tunnel nifty?" Jonathan asked.
Having had 'nifty' explained to her earlier in the visit, she smiled at her grandson.
"It certainly was! You are very fortunate to be living this close to the water."
"We know!" they both said.
"I never want to leave Gull Cottage," Candy said.
"Me neither," Jonathan agreed.
"I think if I lived here, I wouldn't want to leave either," Marjorie agreed, her own smiling eyes taking in how happy her grandchildren were.
"Is everyone ready?" Carolyn asked as they approached.
Despite the mixed responses, they all started up the path. Scruffy led the way, with the children right behind him. The captain escorted their mother, while Reverend Farley assisted their grandmother, with Colm bringing up the rear.
Reaching the top, and crossing the road to the house, they found Claymore and Martha talking on the porch. Ralph was nowhere to be seen.
"Well, did you have a nice walk?" Martha asked the children as they ran ahead of the others.
"Yeah! We found all kinds of driftwood to carve!" Jonathan exclaimed, holding up the piece he was carrying.
"And we showed everyone the tunnel! Candy added. "You should have come with us, Martha."
"Maybe next time," she smiled. "I'll bet you're thirsty after all of that. How about some lemonade?"
"Yay!" they cheered.
As the adults reached the porch, Martha offered them refreshments too. Receiving their unanimous agreement, she left to bring the tray out to the porch.
Marjorie, noticing that Ralph wasn't outside, followed her to the door.
"Martha, do you know where Mr. Muir is?"
"I believe he's in the living room, Mrs. Muir. Not long after everyone left, he returned saying he'd changed his mind about going for a walk," she replied.
"Thank you."
Martha nodded, then looking down at the dog, said, "Come on Scruffy, you probably need some fresh water after your adventure."
Marjorie followed them into the house and went to the living room, where she found Ralph sitting by the fireplace with a half full glass in his hand. Hearing her footsteps, he looked up.
"Ah, so you've finally returned."
"Yes; we had a lovely time."
"I'll just bet you did," he said snidely.
Not willing to let him upset her good mood, she ignored his comment.
"Martha is going to be serving lemonade on the porch; won't you join us?"
He didn't miss that his peevish comment didn't get a rise out of her.
"No, I'll stay here. I have my own refreshments," he said, raising his glass. "Isn't it about time for those people to leave?"
Again, she ignored his attempt to rile her.
"Suit yourself," she said, turning on her heel, and leaving him to wallow in his unpleasantness alone.
XXXXX
The group on the porch enjoyed their time together. There was conversation, stories, and, of course, laughter. Instead of running off to play, Candy and Jonathan stayed and enjoyed being a part of the fun. Marjorie was treated as the friend she had become, in just a few short days, and appreciated having time with everyone without Ralph casting a pall over the festivities. Colm was content just being with Margie and the others. Though it wasn't mentioned, the fact that 'Mr. Muir' hadn't joined them didn't disappoint anyone.
Claymore, missing the quiet he'd enjoyed while everyone was gone, considered going inside to get away from all the frivolity but chose to stay and tolerate it. To him it was the lesser of two evils. He had no desire to spend any more time with Carolyn's father-in-law than he had to. He was quite sure he'd never met a more disagreeable man.
As with all good things, though, it was time for the fun to come to an end. Looking at his pocket watch, Reverend Farley explained that he still had work to do and would have to be going. Claymore was ready to add his need to leave, when the clergyman indicated he was going to walk back to town. Thinking he was going to have to stay longer, the lazy miser was starting to show his annoyance when Colm spoke up.
"I should be goin' too." Then, looking at the Reverend, added, "The capt'n has his own mount ta get back ta the Inn tonight. If you'd like, I'd be glad ta drive ya home in the carriage."
"Thank you, Colm. I would appreciate that," Reverend Farley replied.
"Claymore? Will ya be staying, or can I give ya a ride?"
"Yes, please . . . thank you," Claymore added, relieved he wasn't going to have to stay any longer . . . or walk home.
"I'll go hitch the horses and be back in a few minutes," the seaman said.
"Can I help?!" Jonathan asked.
"Aye, laddie. Come along."
"I'll give you a hand," Daniel stated simply.
"No need, Danny. The lad and I can handle it."
As they went around to the barn, Marjorie excused herself and went into the house. Ralph was still in the living room, sitting in the same chair with a glass in his hand. Knowing him well, she was sure it had been refilled several times.
"Ralph, the men will be leaving soon."
"Good! Is that captain going too?"
"No, of course not."
"Too bad."
"Don't you think you should come out and say goodbye?"
"No . . . but you obviously do."
"It would be the polite thing to do," she said. Having let her wishes be known and not interested in getting into an argument, or leaving any doubt of her expectation, she added, "I'll see you outside."
He watched her leave, making no move to follow.
XXXXX
The group continued to visit until the carriage came around to the front of the house. It was being driven by Jonathan, assisted by Colm who was holding the reins with him. They stopped near the gate, where Colm put the break on, and they both jumped down.
As everyone was walking toward the carriage to say goodbye, Ralph deemed it was time to make an appearance. Marjorie and Candy were walking together, and no one noticed he'd come outside.
A round-robin of "goodbye" and "it was a pleasure meeting you" were exchanged between Mrs. Ralph Muir, Reverend Farley, and Claymore. When it was time for Colm to say goodbye, he gazed at her, smiling shyly.
"Margie MacKenna, 'tis been a pleasure seein' ya after so many years. I hope our paths cross again," he said, kissing her hand.
Marjorie couldn't help smiling.
"Thank you, Colm. I hope so too. I've enjoyed spending time you. It's been a pleasant reminder that there's nothing like old friends."
"Aye, and we are that. 'Tis true what they say, 'ya can't make ol' friends.'" Still holding her hand, he squeezed it gently. "Goodbye, Margie."
"Goodbye, Colm," she replied softly.
Behind them, her husband cleared his throat. Colm looked at him, with a thinly disguised look of contempt, as Marjorie turned to greet her husband.
"Ralph, I'm so glad you made it out in time."
"I'll bet you are," he replied sarcastically.
She met his eyes, her jaw clinched in anger at his behavior, but she wasn't going to say anything in front of the children or Carolyn's guests.
There was another round of "goodbyes," but none of the locals expressed pleasure at meeting Ralph, and he didn't say anything more than "goodbye." He was glad to see them go, and they were happy to be getting away from him.
Before they could leave, Martha hurried to the gate with a light meal for the three men and added her good wishes for a safe trip home.
Claymore and Reverend Farley stepped up into the carriage, and, with a smile and a nod to Margie, Colm climbed into the driver's seat. As the seaman urged the horses on, Ralph didn't miss the look he exchanged with Marjorie and decided there was a lot more between his wife and that sailor than he'd been told. Grabbing her arm roughly, he tried to force her toward the house, but she pulled free and stayed where she was. Turning her back to him, she waved goodbye as the carriage drove out of sight.
Daniel, Carolyn, and Martha saw what happened, and the captain moved to intervene, but Marjorie quickly freed herself, and her angry husband abruptly turned and stomped off toward the house.
Thankfully, the children were busy waving goodbye and didn't see a thing. When the guests were out of sight, they turned to the rest of the family.
"What can we do now?"
The adults exchanged a smile, and Carolyn responded.
"Well, I don't know . . ." she pondered, exaggerating slightly. "We've been to church, you took your grandmother on a tour of the back of the property, we had a wonderful dinner, and a lovely walk on the beach. What could possibly be left to do?"
"I'm hungry!" Jonathan declared, and everyone laughed.
"Then, lad, I suggest you and your sister ask Martha what you can do to help her get supper on the table," Daniel replied.
Their faces fell.
"Gee, thanks a lot Jonathan," Candy said, rolling her eyes.
"Come along, you two. I'm sure we can pull something together that won't tax your strength too much," Martha said, leading them to the house.
Daniel and Carolyn turned their attention to Marjorie.
"Mrs. Muir are you all right?" the captain asked.
"I'm fine," she said, embarrassed that they had witnessed Ralph's behavior. "I'm sorry you had to see that."
"There's certainly no need for you to apologize. Please, tell us what we can do to help?" Carolyn implored.
"Thank you, dear, but there's nothing to be done. This temper tantrum will blow over; they always do. By the time we get to the house, depending on how many drinks he's had, Ralph may not even remember what he was angry about, and that will be the end of it."
"My dear Mrs. Muir, that most certainly will not be the end of it," Daniel replied. "No woman will be manhandled or treated in such a disrespectful manner in my presence!"
Author's Note
I know some of you are anxious for the showdown between Daniel and Ralph; trust me it's coming. There will be three more chapters and an epilog, which will be included in the last chapter. I hope you can wait a few more weeks.
I've been remiss in thanking Mary. She is a wonderful beta. She catches my typos and helps me stay true to the time period. Thanks Mary. You make my stories better because of your input. I've mentioned before that I continue to edit my stories after she proofs them, so any and all errors are mine.
I hope this finds all of you and yours healthy and happy. Stay safe.