Times Are A Changing Chpt12
The square was filled with tables and chairs, many of which had been assembled by the loggers in the square the previous evening. Invitations had been sent but it was apparent to the Bolt's that most of the town were going to make an appearance to wish the couple much happiness. The fare was simple, petite sandwiches of roast beef, chicken, turkey and pork accompanied by a table of chop vegetables donated by the Greeks and table full of baked goods. Two tables were set up for punches one with alcohol and one with none. Jemma's wedding cake was both gorgeous and delicious, chocolate with butter cream icing which was Jason's one request.
Jason, Kathleen and Johnathan thanked Governor Lister for coming but most of all for expediting the paperwork regarding Johnathan's name and parentage. Governor Lister who was a new governor in 1870 was advised by governor Stevens that the Bolts were a family with whom he should become familiar. Governor Lister advised them "I have an ulterior motive. My wife is anxious to get a family portrait by Maggie Cain. Would it be possible for one of you to introduce me to her?" Johnathan volunteered and located Maggie and Josh across the square.
Johnathan introduced Maggie to the governor who already knew Josh. Governor Lister said "I understand that the two of you are engaged. Joshua is going to make an excellent lawyer. He pleaded the case for expediting this paperwork quite passionately." Maggie and josh smiled at each other and then she said "I know. He talked me into marrying him. I believe he has great potential." Josh acted embarrassed but obviously really wasn't. Governor Lister finally got to his question "I know that my office has telegraphed you and you said that you were busy with moving but should be free soon. I am pleading my case for a family portrait by you. My wonderful wife is quite anxious for one. She has put up a lot with my politics and I would be most appreciative if I could give her this one thing." Maggie looked at Josh who stated "Go for it. I will be in Olympia quite a bit so I can see you. We can work anything out." Martha curtsied to the governor "I would love to paint your family's portrait. I can start in a month in September."
Biddie and Rodger were partaking of some sandwiches and some of the alcoholic punch. Rodger mentioned to Biddie that the Bolts had started building their new homes. Biddie answered "Yes in deedy, from what I understand they are going to have 3-4 bedroom and two stories like we had in New Bedford." Rodger pensively added "They are going to move out of those 2 cabins which are very nice and much larger than mine. I've been talking to Jason about purchasing one using my cabin as a down payment. Which one do you think is better as you have been in both quite a bit?" Biddie blushed "Why do you want to move now?" Rodger shook his head and laughed "Well, one business is expanding and looking to add another barber and I am considering expanding my family with a certain young lady from New Bedford."
Jemma, Aaron, and Uncle Duncan are discussing the wedding when Jemma says, "You would have looked quite striking in a kilt, Aaron." Duncan admits "I offered him one, but he refused." Aaron growled "I am German, I am not Scottish or Irish. You all are lucky it is not a windy day." Duncan looked lovingly at his niece and said "You, lasses, are so beautiful in those blue dresses. It is hard for me to believe that you all have grown up. Josh will be married in December. The next generation has begun and may expand quickly. Kathleen has offered to build a house on her estate for me and I am considering taking her up on it." Aaron grimaced while Jemma said how happy they would all be.
Candy and Jeremy were discussing new jobs with Swede, Essie and Corky. Swede was proud to finally move into the realm of professional. Swede looked at Essie who was beaming as pregnant women do and said, "My child will only know me as a professional." Jeremy was quick to say "There is no shame in being a logger. It is good, hard, honest work." Corky looking a bit depressed stated "After I got the job, my first thought was to go tell Biddie. I found that I cared more for her than I knew." Jeremy put his hand on the shoulder of his friend "Remember what you learnt, there still are a beautiful brides in the dorm." Candy added" She is very happy, now. Please let her be."
Telly was raving to Marina about how beautiful their daughter was; she put all the other women to shame in his opinion. Johnathan holding Cassie's hand approached her parents. Telly thanked Johnathan for being with his daughter because he is certain that all the single men at this wedding would be pursuing her. Marina patted his shoulder "You are a little prejudice, my love. "Johnathan jumped in "I agree Cassie would put your Greek goddesses to shame." Telly hugged the young man and advised him "You have excellent taste and a bright future. I am getting use to you." Johnathan laughed "My father would be happy to hear that."
Kathleen and Lottie were heading to the bar so Kathleen could change. They stopped for a moment to talk with Biddie and Rodger. Jason had his men with him including Clancy. He was watching his bride walk across the square. He turned to Clancy and inquired if their cabin was ready and opened. "Aye" was Clancy response. Jason turned to his family and said, "See you in a couple of weeks." And proceeded to cross the square towards Kathleen. Kathleen saw Jason and began to say" "No, I have to change first. You are not destroying my dress by ripping off my buttons." Jason swept up Kathleen and put her over his shoulder and replied, "Don't worry this is one present I am opening slowly." Kathleen was giggling as he turned to his company and thank everyone and wished them well. Most of the those there were laughing and congratulating the couple as he headed for the ship. Inside the cabin was a sign Jeremy had created "DO NOT DISTURB." Jason hung it on the door and took his bride into his arms and kissed her like a man who had been waiting 17 years.