This chapter and the next chapter will be mostly Grace's POV via her diary (bold & italics), however, there will be some dialogue which is just her POV in her head (italics). Thanks.
July 5th, 1933 (1:30 p.m.)
Dear Bessie,
Oh my goodness, where do I begin? This day started off so sweetly but it quickly turned sour with an impromptu meeting with Mr. Donatelli before his scheduled time to collect all of Annie's friends. Apparently, he did some investigating, of his own this weekend, into the Bennett's past starting with their last place of residency listed in the newspaper article, and to his great surprise the kitchen of the house was the only portion damaged in the fire. It was also his great fortune that Mrs. McGuire, the Bennett's landlady, still currently owned the building. Mr. Donatelli learned a lot about Annie's 'birth parents' from Mrs. McGuire and requested that she accompany him to the mansion so she could share the Bennett's story with Annie and us. Don't get me wrong, Mrs. McGuire is a lovely, amiable, gentile lady, however, the information she shared with us today disrupted the earlier pleasantness surrounding our new family of three.
So how did the morning start off? I woke up to my future husband brushing his lips against mine! He also had a lovely bouquet of summer flowers for me which he personally placed on my nightstand. Oliver then told me to rest a bit longer with our 'cub' because breakfast wouldn't be served until 9:30 a.m. When I inquired why he was dressed for the day, he stated that he had a bouquet to pick this morning for his 'beautiful enchantress' in addition to some unfinished business to complete, which he intended to finish before everyone else in the household rose for the day.
This of course had me bulking a bit as well as attempting to get out of bed; but, he quickly redirected my attempt by placing a firm hand on my shoulder as his eyes flicked toward the leech attached to my side. In my haste along with my good morning surprise, I briefly forgot that I had a sleeping snuggle bug in my bed! After learning that she was possibly an insomniac back at the orphanage, through the bits and pieces she shared with me over the last week, I instantly agreed with Oliver that a few more hours of sleep was definitely in order. Plus, when I glanced at my alarm clock I realized I had only slept five or so hours. He stated that he would return around 8:30 to wake us for breakfast. Oh Bessie, he gave me the most breathtaking kiss before he left and he didn't even flinch when he tasted my awful morning breath. I remember sighing contently as I snuggled under my covers again as I rolled over to spoon my snuggle bug.
Bessie, as he promised, Oliver returned to my room to arouse Annie and me. All it took to get Annie out of bed was to state that FDR and Eleanor were already up and taking a leisure stroll through the gardens. Of course, I quickly grabbed my little firecracker and told her she needed to do her morning hygiene routine and change into something clean before charging after the President and First Lady. She readily agreed and dashed toward her room. This left Oliver and I to ourselves, and all I wanted to do ravish him, Bessie! Instantly, like magnets, our bodies and lips crashed together after our daughter's departure, and just when my body started to ignite on fire Oliver quickly tore himself away from me, then hastily put space between us.
I know I had a look of hurt on my face which quickly had Oliver voicing, "Grace, don't think I don't want to continue, but I want our union to be for all the right reasons! I don't want you to regret anything! Also, 'Papa William and Mama Esther' visited me in the office this morning and insisted that our week long premarital counseling begin this evening after dinner; and, besides I am sure Annie will be bursting in here at any moment to announce that she has completed her morning routine!"
Naturally, his last comment had the comic relief we both needed, and it was confirmed and elicited another round of laughter three minutes later when Annie bounded into my room announcing she was ready for the day. Bessie, it suddenly dawned on me that the aloofness Oliver often displays concerning the daily humdrum of the household environment is a front and he actually pays more attention to those around him than he lets on. I am going to need to be more careful in the future about what I do or say, he's more observant than I've given him credit for!
After, Annie's entrance she scolded me because I had yet to get ready for the day, and stated that she would take my distraction with her so I could get ready. As Oliver and Annie left, I started to softly chuckle when 'locked doors were definitely required in the near future' floated across my mind, but our little chaperone was doing a wonderful job in keeping us honest. I, also, heard our little cherub's voice drift my way when she asked if Oliver and she were going to continue their daily swim lessons before dinner. Oliver's affirmative baritone had 'warm fuzzy feelings' coursing down my spine. He truly is an amazing father, especially when I know his usual work schedule has already gone by the wayside this week and it's only Monday.
Bessie, I know I'm so blessed to have both of my loves love me in return! I know they are both here to stay, but a cold chill still visits me a few times a day when I'm haunted by the knowledge that I nearly lost them both, that is, Annie physically and Oliver emotionally. I have no doubt in my mind that Oliver was slamming shut all the doors to his heart again after Annie left with the 'Mudges' Friday night! BUT, to have had the blessing to overhear his agreement toward Annie's request to accompany him during his afternoon swim immediately warmed my heart. I just knew he'd be a wonderful father someday! Bessie, I know if anyone saw me getting ready this morning, they would have thought I was going completely daft as a giddy grin never left my face as I hummed and skipped around while I completed my daily routine before joining 'my family' for breakfast.
'My family,' Bessie, I was on such a high this morning that I thought nothing could rain on my parade! Well, I was wrong! It all transpired toward the end of breakfast or I should say after Oliver and I had completed our food. The others were discussing several different topics, but I can truly say I only heard about 25% of it because my attention was solely on the man whose foot was dancing with mine under the table. It wasn't until Annie and C.J. came in to tell us about Mr. Donatelli's early arrival and his guest that my full attention returned to the dining room.
Oh Bessie, where do I begin with our continued nightmare? Once, Oliver and I headed out of the dining room I know my heart was lurching as fear started to cloud over my world again, but before Oliver could inquire about my death grip, Drake told us that our guests were in the large Mediterranean sitting room in between the front workroom and the downstairs library. This information dissipated some of my fear for a moment as I mirrored Oliver's silent query as to why they weren't led up to his office or the downstairs study where business matters were generally discussed. Drake responded immediately indicating that the study had been taken over by the wedding planners and that Mrs. McGuire was a bit feeble. He also stated that the trunks were rather heavy and Mrs. McGuire wouldn't let them out of her sight until they were given to their rightful owner. That little tidbit had Oliver and I on high alert. Who was this Mrs. McGuire? Why were these trunks so important? And, who did they belong too? However, in my heart I knew it had to do with Annie!
When we entered the sitting room, Mr. Donatelli greeted us and immediately introduced us to Mrs. McGuire. Thank goodness, he didn't beat around the bush because my nerves were already on edge when I saw the well-crafted trunks and small bureau. I know I immediately looked toward Punjab as he silently indicated that he already searched for contraband. I know, Bessie, I'm a worry wart but it was just last Friday night that the Bolsheviks attempted to bomb this place, not to mention it would have been successful had it not been for Annie's late night interruption! I know that's when Oliver finally caved into Sandy's presence at the mansion, and most likely Annie's too!
Anyway, I can honestly say my mind didn't focus on Mr. Donatelli or Mrs. McGuire initially, so I missed his introduction as well as the purpose of his early arrival. All I could think of, after making sure Oliver was okay, was please don't let this lady be a long lost relative whose here to claim her! I know I had a vise grip on Oliver's hand as I became lightheaded with a roaring sound rushing behind my ears. Oliver must have noticed my disposition because he immediately moved us toward one of the sofas.
Once we were seated, I started to take deep breaths in to calm my fears, and soon after knobby hands started to soothe me as a sweet rickety brogue followed it. "I can see dat da good Lord has placed me David and Margaret's lamb in good hands." I remember looking up thinking dear God, she is a relative, but before I could voice my thoughts the knobby hands cupped my face and the voice continued, "No me dear, dey tweren't me family, but betta dan family. David and Margaret twere me tenants for four years and blessed me house durin' deir stay. I've not come'ta reclaim'da lamb but give Annie her rightful belongin's. I knew dat Miss Hannigan would pawn of me David and Margaret's hard work. Me David lea'ned dat afta the first Christmas dat Miss Hannigan was in charge!"
The fire I saw in Mrs. McGuire's eyes when she spoke of Miss Hannigan caused not only goose bumps coursing down my spine but also a new found alley in this spirited Irish lady. She quickly went on as she took the seat across from us, I'm sure to put my heart at ease as well as to rest her weary bones. "I's here me dear, 'cause dis young lad came'ta me house late Saturday afternoon'ta inquire 'bout da kitchen fire I had five years 'go. He wondered if someone in da house knew da story involvin' da Bennetts ..."
Bessie, in that moment her voice hitched as her eyes glazed over a bit. Oliver and I both squeezed each other's hands knowing the story would possibly entail horrid details. I'm going to retail it the best I can using her own choice of words as she spun it for us.
"I's wanted'ta tell ya two da story first afta hearin' 'bout Annie's story from Mr. Donatelli as well as what's been floatin' 'round da newspaper and radio dese past few days. Da sprite will need more support I reckon afta hearin' 'bout her folks.
"Now, where'ta begin me story ... I suppose ya two will be wanted'ta know as much 'bout me David and Margaret. Dey twere a lovely couple but with a sorrowful cloud surroundin'em. Both twere fiercely determined'ta pay off all of Margaret's hospital bills 'fore reclaimin' deir daughter, however, David struggled gettin' steady work durin' his apprenticeship due'ta bein' illiterate 'fore he found work with me."
Mrs. McGuire tilted her head in silent query after that statement in order to gauge our reactions about David being illiterate; however, it was Oliver who responded to her inquiry for the both of us, "Mrs. McGuire, Grace and I were already made aware of Mr. Bennett's limited formal education, but I'm well aware that being book smart doesn't necessarily make a person a hard worker nor intellectual enough to survive this cruel world. As a young lad, my formal education was nil to none, and if you checked my personal file you would find no formal education in my history, not even college. My education came on board a ship after I ran away from home to escape an abusive father, neglectful mother, and the pain from losing my closest family member …"
BESSIE, I will get back to the rest of his statement, but I barely heard the rest of it as my mind was spinning with all the new information Oliver just revealed to the three of us. One, I was miffed, how dare he share this with complete strangers; two, my heart yearned to comfort the little boy who suffered so much as a young lad; and, three, I was puzzled, who did he lose?! However, I had to table these thoughts for a later time in order to follow the rest of Oliver's dialogue (after all he may have revealed more information about his background as I mulled over his recent admission).
"I barely knew how to write my name let alone count past 10 until my surrogate father J.B. took me under his wing. He not only taught me arithmetic, reading, and writing, but valuable life lessons to survive this unforgiveable world. Our initial affiliation was built on loss but it soon turned into a 'father/son' relationship; and, once we docked here for the first time I was blessed once again when his beloved Janice and daughter Annebelle accepted me into their family unit as well … so you see, Grace and I are not concerned about Mr. Bennett's illiteracy but his charisma, work ethic, character, and devotion toward his wife and daughter."
Bessie, I know my eyes had misted over and when I looked toward Mrs. McGuire hers were a bit shiny too after Oliver's revelation. All I could do, Bessie, was squeeze his hand in silent support and love. Thank goodness the silent pause wasn't for too long before Mrs. McGuire continued her tale.
"Dank ya for sharin,' Mr. Warbucks, I dink me David and Margaret are smilin' down on deir lamb's new parents. I can also provide ya peace dat me David and even me Margaret twere de epitome of all dose description ya listed. Dey persevered too mind ya! I knows ya're wonderin' 'bout deir backgrounds, but I twas hopin'ta get past deir deaths first. Tis a messy end'ta deir lives. Dey twere so close'ta reclaimin' deir lamb!
"Ya see, me David and me Margaret twere a handsome couple 'sides bein' talented. He may not have been book smart, but he twas a true artisan with his woodworkin' and drawin,' and me Margaret twas an amazin' chef, knitter, and sewer. Tis one of da dark twists dat Miss Hannigan spun from me Margaret and Miss Turner's efforts'ta teach da girls simple life lessons.
"Excuse me, life lessons?" I heard myself say.
"Oh, dere I go 'gain gettin' 'head of meself. Yes, Miss Turner twas a gem, maybe a bit unorthodox in da board of directors' views, but she allowed me David'ta volunteer 'round da orphanage in exchange for some time with Annie. Ya see he started'ta fix dings on da outside of da orphanage as he tried'ta spy a glimpse of his lamb. Miss Turner saw da value of havin' a handyman fix dings 'round da buildin' da board of directors stated dey didn't have da money for at da time. It soon 'came very popular among da parents dat twere given deir offspring a chance. Dey would volunteer some of deir time fixin' dings, cookin' food, makin' clothes, takin' turns carin' for da girls etc. And once me Margaret got well, Miss Turner found a smart partner'ta assist with educatin' da girls in valuable life lessons.
"Ya, see me David and me Margaret knew twhat it twas like'ta be thrust inta dat unforgiven world ya just mentioned Mr. Warbucks, and dey didn't want'ta see da poor girls shoved inta it like dey were. I guess I'll bein' tellin' ya more 'bout deir background in orda'ta finish off me piece 'fore ya get Miss Annie."
Bessie, I know my left hand had a death grip on Oliver's left hand, because during Mrs. McGuire's continued monologue, he slipped his right hand out from my left hand as he circled his right arm around my body, cinching it against his as he sensed my sorrow and trepidation slowly spread throughout my body. I'm telling you this because I'm not sure I would have held it together during Mrs. McGuire's retelling of David and Margaret Bennett's good intentions backfiring due to that SHREW OF A WOMAN! HOW DARE SHE TAKE ADVANTAGE AND MISS USE THOSE LESSONS/SKILLS MISS TURNER AND MARGARET BENNETT PAINSTAKINGLY DEVELOPED AND TAUGHT TO THE GIRLS SO THEY WOULD HAVE A FIGHTING CHANCE IN THIS WORLD ONCE THEY REACHED ADULTHOOD AND WERE RELEASED FROM THE GOVERNMENT'S CARE AT 16 YEARS OLD! TURNING IT INTO A SWEAT SHOP INSTEAD OF THE INTENDED LIFE SKILLS THE GIRLS COULD USE TO GET JOBS DURING THESE HARD TIMES! BUT, I'm getting ahead of myself Bessie, but just knowing what I am going to share with you next has me fuming all over again, and wanting to wring THAT WOMAN'S NECK!
Okay, now where was I with Mrs. McGuire's story? Oh yes, but on a side note, I know I am writing with a lot of spelling errors when I am quoting Mrs. McGuire, but I am trying to capture her unique Irish brogue. After all, I am trying to retell Mrs. McGuire's story with as much verbatim as possible so I can share it with Annie in the future; and, we definitely made sure Mrs. McGuire's version was more 'sugar coated' (another Annieism) when she retold it to her. However, knowing my precocious daughter like I do, Annie knew it was 'sugar coated' because her quizzical face told us so; but, we just didn't want Annie to know 'all' the hardships her birth parents experienced in their short lives especially their childhoods (in spite of her 'street smarts,' we wanted to spare her remaining childhood innocence to this cruel world for a bit longer). Anyway, back to Mrs. McGuire's initial story because my mind keeps getting ahead of my pen!
"Me Margaret's childhood and life twas a bit better dan me David's. Me David's life started off very bleak as he be born'ta a lady of da night. Bein' born in such a manner me David neva knew his father. His mother, bless her heart, did try per me David, but she fell ill'ta a decease dat comes with dat profession when he twas but four. Da ladies of da house looked afta me David, but da man who ran it abused me David behind deir backs. Me David knew dat da women twere frowned upon by society, but dat most of dem twhere in dat profession 'cause of dat society turnin' deir backs on dem. Most twere orphans demselves, and in order'ta survive dey learned da oldest trade a woman can learn. Sos most of dem saw demselves in me David, and fought'ta keep him in da house afta his mother died.
"Dey argued twith Mr. Haze dat he'd be a good lad, and also be a good look out and/or decoy for da police. Afta all who would shut down a reputable place with children? Howeva, like I's said Mr. Haze grudgingly agreed, but twhen da women twere workin' he'd push, kick, and beat me David. Sos twhen me David twas seven he ran 'way. Have no fear, he'd learned from da women'ta use his noggin so he knew twere he twas runnin' too.
"He'd spied a group of young lads, and befriended dem durin' da day twhen da woman twere restin,' and'ta get out from unda Mr. Haze's way. Dese boys twere newsies, and soon took him unda deir wing … I's knows from Mr. Donatelli dat ya both have seen his drawin' of da three of dem. Dey twere a handsome couple and equally good lookin' without da otha. Ya see not only did da boys see a cute little boy who twas street smart, but also a boy whose sweet disposition twasn't tainted by da card God dealt him. No dey saw his charisma, perseverance, loyalty, tenderness, and talent unda all dat pain, dirt, and abuse. Da whole lot of boys, sellin' newspapers daily'ta New Yorkers, knew me David twas special, and took him inta deir world of brotherhood."
Bessie, I was flabbergasted, appalled, humbled, and sorrowful for Mr. Bennett's start in life. I know Oliver was too because he shared his sentiments by squeezing my hand affectionately in addition to rubbing my side in a soothing manner. Who knew how 'touchy/feely' he truly was, and each stroke sent 'warm fuzzy feelings' straight to my heart! I digress but Bessie it's so endearing! I just have to say one more thing before I continue on with Mrs. McGuire's story, 'Abigail and I knew we were blessed to have Esther and William take us in after our parents' deaths, but this week and last week alone have definitely opened my eyes and heart just a bit more about how advantageous our lives truly have been over the years.'
Okay, back to Mrs. McGuire! "Me Margaret's plot in life twasn't much betta dan me David's, but she at least twas passed 'round her family. Her motha passed from da influenza epidemic twhen she twas twelve. Her pa twas unable'ta support or should I say parent da girls, sos he pawned dem off'ta deir relatives. Now, me Margaret neva came out and said dat she twas mistreated, but she twas definitely leery of men; and, me David twas mighty protective of her. Not outta jealousy, but outta instinct! Where'd he come from he knew da leeches who claimed'ta be men!
"Anyway, dey found each otha twhen she came inta town lookin' for a job when she twas but fifteen. Apparently, her 'family' said she twas old 'nough'ta find work, but I dink da aunt found out some dings 'bout her husband. Deir's names twere Ryan, and if yas have read da article 'bout da kitchen fire ya knows da villian's name twas Ryan. Anyway instead of solvin' or fixin' da real problem she sent 'way da innocent inta da land of more cruelty. Me Margaret nearly went inta da old trade dat me David escaped from, but one of his surrogate motha's cunning and resourcefulness saved her from dat life.
"Anne, knew dat both David and Margaret could help each otha out in dis wicked world. Ya see me David was seventeen and strugglin'ta find work due'ta his illiteracy. I'm sure ya twere wonderin' how he sold newspapas twithout readin,' well he twould listen'ta da other boys talkin' 'bout da headlines 'fore dey took off'ta deir posts. Me David twas a fine salesman twith a fine singin' voice, not only could he sell ya a broken bottle and make ya think it twas da greatest item ya ever purchased, but he could also sing like a Nightingale!"
Bessie, it was amazing to see all the emotions flicker from Mrs. McGuire's face when she retold their stories. They would go from humorous, to sorrowful, to painful, to loving, and to appreciation and back around again. We could tell that her retelling of their story brought back both good and bad memories in addition to enlightening us on her true feelings toward Annie's birth parents. Oliver, Punjab, Mr. Donatelli, and I also had that 'ah ha' moment when she told us of David's surrogate mother's name. I also thought how young they were, and I know when I glanced at Oliver during Mrs. McGuire's recount of their ages he too was doing the math in his head. After all, if Margaret's mother died during the influenza epidemic in 1918 and she was only twelve, then she was only 16 or 17 when she had Annie; and, don't worry Bessie because I'm getting to that part of Mrs. McGuire's dialogue.
"Don't get me wrong, me David twas not a swindler, he twas an honest boy dat turned inta a wonderful man who loved his wife and his babe. He just had dat natural salesman knack, but 'cause of his lack of education he twas taken advantage of at times; but, once he knew he twas gettin' exploited he twould sever da deal as quick as he could. Anyway, me Margaret twas more fortunate dat her momma twas educated and made sure she knew her readin,' writin,' and arithematic 'fore she died, and even dough her aunt and her husband didn't continue her formal education, me Margaret continued on her own when she could. She also learned how'ta cook, make perfumes and oils, and to sew and crochet.
"Dat's when Miss Anne realized dat Margaret would help her David out. Miss Anne had a soft spot for me David, ya see she lost six babes of her own, dey never left infancy, and David's motha asked dat she look after'im when she died. Miss Anne faithfully accepted dis job, and when me David ran 'way, from dat Mr. Haze, she wentta lookin' for'im immediately. When she realized dat he twas safe with da newsies she left'im in deir care, but she'd visit'im often as well as love on'im like any motha.
"Sos when me Margaret came inta dat awful establishment it twas a day dat me David twas visitin' Miss Anne. Ya see Mr. Haze had a strict routine, and on days he twas passed out from late night card playin' twith his booze, David would visit his surrogate mama. It twas on one of dese days dat he was upset dat another man was given an apprenticeship over'im 'cause he couldn't fill out his application in time.
"Miss Anne twas deeply upset for'im knowin' dat his woodworkin' skills twere superb, but without a formal education herself she couldn't help'im either. Per David's recount, it twas like God answered his prayers dat day when me Margaret walked in a little worse for wear but neva da less she twas da blessin' he twas lookin' for in dat moment. Dey never talked 'bout it, but I's imagine she ran inta trouble prior'ta gettin'ta da establishment. I knows dat when dey shared dis tidbit with me dey averted deir eyes from me. I's been blessed in my life'ta not have experienced deir hardships, but I's wasn't born yesterday either'ta know what can happen'ta a helpless woman in dis cruel world.
"Anyways, Miss Anne and me David helped her'ta Miss Anne's room'ta clean her up, find a new set of clothes, and also'ta feed her. When me Margaret finally felt up'ta talkin' and respond'ta deir kind gestures, its twhen Miss Anne and me David realized dat Margaret spoke like a gentile woman. Den Miss Anne asked if me Margaret could read and write, and she confirmed it. Me Margaret durin' her recount of dis story stated dat dey both looked ecstatic like two children at Christmas.
"I won't bore ya with more details 'bout deir first few weeks tagether, just knows dat Miss Anne knew immediately dat me David and me Margaret not only needed each other, but dat dey had dat somethin' special. Dey had dat chemistry, like yas two have Mr. Warbucks and Miss Farrell."
Bessie, I know when she said this statement, I blushed from head to my toe, but I could tell that she was being earnest with that statement NOT 'buttering us up' (like Annie would say) to take advantage of Oliver later. Then to gauge Oliver's reaction, I looked in my peripheral view to see the tips of his ears turning a nice shade of red, too. Bessie, I know in that moment I had to stifle a delightful giggle, as I returned my focus back to Mrs. McGuire once again.
"Miss Anne, knew dat me Margaret needed'ta leave with David 'fore Mr. Haze woke up or any of da other girls for dat matta. If Mr. Haze got wind dat a beauty twas lookin' for work, he'd not let her leave da establishment eva. Tis why Miss Anne never got out, but she also stayed'ta help others like me Margaret escape 'fore dey twere foreva trapped in dat world. Me David at dat time had a room in a boardin' house 'bout 12 blocks east of me house now, not da greatest area but it twas a place'ta stay and'ta me Margaret it twas a palace from da Hades called da streets she just escaped.
"Dey lived in da room tagether for two weeks without da landlord knowin' dat she twas dere, but once she twas discovered dey had'ta prove dat dey twere married 'cause the landlord's wife didn't run one of dose 'establishments.' Even dough me David and me Margaret tweren't livin' in sin, afta all me David knew dat he had'ta treat me Margaret with delicacy due'ta her recent and past encounters with men. It twas Anne dat cashed in on some favors from some powerful men dat frequented Mr. Haze's establishment, but didn't want deir wives nor society knowin' deir secret. Let's just say dat me David and me Margaret got married, but deir marriage license twas back dated a few weeks.
"Dey lived'tagether for several months just as newly established friends, but eventually both of'em fell in love. I's could bore ya with deir courtin,' but just knows dat me David treated me Margaret twith upmost respect and devotion, and in return me Margaret gladly helped David find betta work and eventually fell in love twith'im too. Once me David secured an apprenticeship with respectable carpenter, it twas me Margaret's turn'ta start makin' her name for herself, but 'fore dey knew it she twas with child."
"What do you mean, make a name for herself?" I heard myself ask.
"Awe, me Margaret twas equally talented as me David. Her voice matched his as well as her talent in cookin,' sewin,' crochetin,' and concoctin' perfumes and oils for men and women; but, once Annie twas born she devoted herself'ta deir lamb. She twas born'ta be a motha, and relished in it. Unfortunately, deir love created 'nother babe a few months afta Annie twas born, but da babe died in child birth and nearly killed me Margaret too. Da doctors twere able'ta fix me Margaret physically but mentally she had a long road 'head of her'ta recova.
"Ya see dey took her uterus and in turn took her womanly pride. Not only did she loose deir son, but she lost the ability'ta give David 'nother son, even dough he told her she and Annie twere 'nough. She continued'ta sink inta a black whole of despair, and me David twas sinkin' in debt 'cause his apprenticeship just twasn't payin' 'nough for Margaret's psychological bills and food for'im and Annie. Dank da God Lord dat Miss Anne twas willin'ta watch her namesake, but Mr. Haze twas not so forgivin' twhen she twas late'ta work.
"Twhen me David saw Mr. Haze's handiwork on Miss Anne dat's twhen he made da hardest decision he ever had'ta make, give Annie a fightin' chance. Ya see twhen Mr. Haze confronted Anne twas when she twas at me David's apartment lookin' out for little Annie. Miss Anne prevented'im from hurtin' Annie dat day, but me David feared for Miss Anne and Annie's life.
"I dink dat yas knows da part of'im given up Annie inta Miss Turner's care. Da only time he shared dis with me, he sobbed like a baby 'cause he didn't know twhat'ta do, he felt so guilty but da walls twere cavin' in on him. It twas 'bout two weeks later dat he started'ta volunteer some of his time'ta da orphanage. He noticed dat certain parts of da exterior twere fallin' 'part. Me David took it upon himself'ta start repairin' da building, and in turn Miss Turner gave'im time with Annie.
"Jugglin' work, Margaret, and volunteerin' twere takin' a toll on me David, and in her black hole me Margaret started realizin' dat her David twas just a skeleton of da man she married and loved. She soon snapped out of it, but not in time'ta slow down da bills dat twere over shadowin'em. Da same bills dat would keep'em at arm's length from deir lamb for four years. Me Margaret neva blamed me David, she stated if it twere reversed she'd have done da same ding. She just said dank goodness dat Miss Turner saw da benefit of havin' David's help, and soon her help in da orphanage in exchange for spendin' time and keepin' an eye on Annie.
Bessie, Mrs. McGuire paused for a few heart beats after stating the above dialogue. Her eyes had glazed over once again, but a soft smile of fondness with a twist of sadness graced her lips as well. Then as if to remind herself that she still had a job to do, Mrs. McGuire visibly shook herself from her little trance to push on with her with story.
"It twas 1924 twhen I twas in search of a handyman, and I lucked out dat Mr. Jones, me longest tenant, owned a shop next'ta da carpenter shop dat me David twas still apprenticin' for at dat time. It twas also me fortune dat me David and me Margaret twere searchin' for a closer place'ta live near da orphanage. I'd say livin' six blocks away versus sixteen twas an improvement.
"Anyways, me David and me Margaret accepted da back room for da handyman which twas located off da kitchen. Now, it tweren't much of a room, Mr. Warbucks and Miss Farrell, but da look on deir faces twhen I showed dem … well ya would have dought it twas a palace!
"Anyhows, I'd say within da first two days me Margaret twas pitchin' in with da cookin,' da bakin,' and da mendin.' I realized I'd gotten a steal with me David 'cause his Margaret twasn't no lazy wife. She twas adamant 'bout doin' her share particularly'ta earn me trust as a tenant 'specially since she disappeared for several hours a day in da mornin' …"
Bessie, it was right at this moment that Mrs. McGuire started to choke up and struggle through her story a bit; and, God Bless Oliver for storing two handkerchiefs in his pocket today as he handed me one and then Mrs. McGuire the other. However, in the middle of her monologue, we could see that strong Irish willpower kick in because her speech became steadier after taking a few deep cleansing breaths.
"I-I-I's nev-neva had da chance'ta t-t-tell ea-ea-ch of'em how m-m-much I'd come'ta l-l-l-lovin' dem as me own fam-family. I tw-twas proud ya see, m-m-me D-D-David and m-me M-M-Margaret rose 'bove deir lot in l-l-life, and n-n-n-nearly achiev-v-ved deir g-goal … … … Now, don't get me wrong me David and me Margaret didn't confide in me 'bout deir little lamb until da last year, when dey asked for a larga room in me house dat 'came vacant. Of course, me dinking like a grandmama dought dey twere with child, and gladly said dat dey deserved a bigga room. 'Cause by da second year me David and me Margaret twere bringin' more income inta me home by all da goods dey created makin' me boardin' house da place'ta rent in me neighborhood!
"Unfortunately, I's twas wrong 'bout me Margaret bein' with child, and I sorely twas sorry for bringin' it up one day as we twere makin' pumpkin pies, pumpkin cookies, and pumpkin rolls'ta sell dat day. Me Margaret broke down and sobbed her heart out as she confessed dat she tweren't able'ta have any more children, and dat she and me David had a daughter dey hoped'ta bring home soon.
"So's after two hours of rockin' me Margaret, as she confessed deir deepest secret and all deir hopes'ta pay off deir debt 'fore retrievin' deir lamb, me David showed up inta da kitchen and immediately knew twhat me Margaret had confessed. It twas later dat me David stated dat me Margaret needed a 'motha's shoulder'ta cry on' as well as me understanding and me nonjudgmental attitude durin' her confession. Me David said me Margaret neva forgave herself, even when he and Miss Turner continually tried'ta convince her dat her depression and despair of losing her newborn and future children twere not her fault nor twas it her fault dat in order for Annie'ta survive … me David had'ta give her up. Dey twere a pair 'cause me Margaret confessed earlier dat me David neva forgave himself for failin' his girls, even twhen she stated dat it twasn't his fault and it twas his only choice.
"It twas da followin' Sunday evenin,' twhen da dree of us twere in me sittin' room twhen me Margaret and me David shared deir life story with me as well as twhat dey twere doin' at da orphanage now'ta assist all da girls and Miss Turner. Ta say I twas impressed with deir ingenious thinkin' and selflessness tis an undastatement! Me David had repaired da majority of da buildin' already, and me Margaret … me Margaret assisted Miss Turner in creatin' several life skill programs'ta assist da girls twhen da government released dem inta da real world.
"Ya see me David and me Margaret knew dat world, and without some kinda skill dose girls twould find deir way'ta da slimmest trade'ta survive! Sos besides Miss Turner teachin' da girls writin,' readin,' and arithmetic, me Margaret developed three skilled programs, one twas sewin', another twas cleanin,' and da otha twas cookin'.
Oh Bessie, I remember my whole body suddenly jerking back like I'd been 'sucker punched' (another wonderful Annieism), when I realized what Mrs. McGuire was referring to earlier, about Miss Hannigan's deviousness turning Margaret's well thought out life skill programs into a sweatshop for her own benefit! What a viper! When I looked in my peripheral view I could see that Oliver shared my sentiments because his famous neck vein was bulging in addition to his hold on my hand and body were a bit more intense than before. I knew I needed to defuse his anger toward Miss Hannigan before he interrupted Mrs. McGuire's tale so I simply squeezed his hand in support and assurance that we were in this together. Oh Bessie, he in turn did the same thing as he gave me a light squeeze before his exterior started to relax again. When my focus returned to Mrs. McGuire, she had a twinkle in her eye indicating she enjoyed our private tête–à–tête.
"Now, da age'ta learn me Margaret's lessons started at da tenda age of ten, but dey twere simple lessons not twhat Miss Hannigan expects out of even da wee little ones now. Of course, da lessons Miss Turner started twhen da girls reached five years old, and I'm sure dat ya realize by now dat Miss Hannigan has kindly forgone dese lessons!"
Bessie, I wasn't surprise by these comments, but the look on Mr. Donatelli's face was priceless! I believe Miss Hannigan will be out of job soon, or some severe measures will be taken. I know in that moment Oliver was looking out me through his peripheral view, so I felt that I should confirm Mrs. McGuire's comments with my own suspicions. "Mrs. McGuire, I can assure you that within her second day here, I discovered that spelling M-I-DOUBLE S-I-DOUBLE S-I-DOUBLE P-I doesn't necessarily mean she can spell nor read other words. Annie barely knows all her letters, and we've also figured out fairly quickly that when Miss Turner left and Miss Hannigan took over Annie lost the privilege of learning her ABCs from an adult. Once I figured out her limited education, I enlisted my mother, Esther, a former school teacher to tutor Annie during part of her day while she stayed for the week. I felt that if she was given some instruction, even for a week, her sharp mind would strive to continue to learn on her own even a-a-after sh-she re-e-eturned t-t-to the orph-phange."
Bessie, I know Mrs. McGuire was giving me an appreciative look, as Mr. Donatelli looked horrified, and Oliver provided my body with a tight supportive squeeze as we both gave each other a tender look that spoke of the myriad of emotions we both share now which blanket the different possibilities of 'the could have beens' of losing our Annie.
"I's glad'ta see dat yas are not just beautiful but brilliant just like me Margaret. Annie's blessed'ta have two mamas like dat in her life time! And, two papas dat are fiercely protective and devoted toward deir girls. Anyway, Mr. Donatelli, I's can tell dat dis news confuses and horrifies ya! Well, let me enlighten ya, Miss Hannigan ain't no Miss Turner, yas would've been wise'ta keep Mrs. Baker on afta she married instead of penelyzin' her and da girls.
"Mr. Warbucks and Miss Farrell, Miss Turner met a lovely man named Baker, and afta courtin' for a year dey married, but instead of keeping Mrs. Baker onta continue her great work da board let her go at da beginning of 1928. Dey den hired dat WOMAN, Miss Hannigan, ta replace her. Me David and me Margaret, 'long with otha mamas and papas, twere barred from da orphanage. Miss Hannigan stated dat she no longa needed deir volunteerin,' but said dat da mamas and da papas could reapply for deir daughters' adoptions. Dis of course cost money dey didn't necessarily have, hence anotha set back for me Bennetts. Ya see Miss Turner always waved da fee since da mamas and da papas twere workin' for free.
"Den 'bout a week or two afta Miss Hannigan's announcement 'bout adoption, me David spotted his and Margaret's Christmas gifts'ta da girls in a pawn shop. He twas fit'ta be tied, twhen he returned'ta da shop'ta buy Annie's items back dat dey both painstakingly created from deir love. He wanted'ta buy all of it back, but it twas already gonna put a dent in deir money'ta reclaim Annie with … unfortunately, Miss Hannigan saw a cruel opportunity'ta pocket more money for herself so she continued'ta raise da adoption fee statin' room and board fees. Me David and me Margaret, nearly saw deir wish come true until, me Margaret's past interrupted deir plans."
Oh Bessie, the fire in Mrs. McGuire's eyes toward Mr. Donatelli when she discussed Miss Turner's … I mean Mrs. Baker's termination could have set him on fire, and the flames got hotter as she spoke of Miss Hannigan. However, they instantly dulled when she started to recall Margaret's past and the events leading up to the kitchen fire.
"Y-y-yas, see me Margaret's, sorry of an excuse of a man, uncle, Mr. Ryan started'ta stalk her twhen David twasn't 'round. Da day of da fire Margaret twas so jumpy dat she finally confided in me 'bout Mr. Ryan's reappearance, and dat he twas threatenin'ta harm David or Annie, if Margaret twasn't willin'ta give'im money.
"Yas, see her aunt died and he no longa had da income comin' in for his booze sos he set out lookin' for me Margaret since da rest of da family turned deir back on him. I'm sure money for booze and a good time, the louse! I told me Margaret dat we would get'im if he came 'round here, and throw'im in da clink. I eventually convinced her'ta tell David and we formed a fool proof plan'ta capture'im; but, a man as desperate as Mr. Ryan'ta fill his belly with booze can be unpredictable. L-L-Little did w-w-we know dat h-h-h-he would slip back toward me David's workshop in da middle of da d-d-day as h-h-he worked on some custom orders, and r-r-r-ran one of h-h-h-his own t-t-tools through h-his g-g-gut.
During this time, Bessie, streams of tears were cascading down Mrs. McGuire's face as well as mine. I also know I heard Oliver's Adam's apple bob up and down a few times as Mr. Donatelli was taking deep breaths to come himself down, so the boys were also affected by her recount too. However, Mrs. McGuire's eyes then glazed over as silent tears continued to cascade down her cheeks, but her voice became steady. It was eerie, Bessie, like a cool calm took over her body … then I realized she was numbing herself for the rest of the story.
"Dat Mr. Ryan den h-h-headed toward da kitchen twere he caught Margaret and me unawares. He had dat bloody tool in his hand as he approached Margaret demandin' money or he'd kill deir lamb as well. Mr. Ryan also stated, through his slurred drunkin' speech, dat she'd be his again as well, sos she could be his money maker since her aunt twas gone. Den as he turned his gaze toward me, as if'ta take me out as well, me Margaret took a chair and bashed'im inta da wood stove. Twhen he landed on da stove, Mr. Ryan's shirt caught on fire from da burnas. He den started flingin' 'round'ta stop da fire, and in da midst of it me David came staggerin' inta da kitchen. Me David yelled at me'ta phone da police, sos I finally came out of me shocked stance. While I rang da police, I heard a lot of scufflin,' and den me Margaret's scream as me kitchen caught inta flames. Mr. Jones and Mr. Hill, two of me otha tenants rushed out of da house'ta get buckets of wata, and me neighbors soon came runnin' with buckets as well. When da flames twere out and da smoke settled, dere laid me Margaret and me David tagether, both twith fatal puncture wounds, and dat Mr. Ryan passed out due'ta da smoke!
After a long pregnant pause, Mrs. McGuire's eyes began to gleam back to life but with remorse to them as they continued to shine with silent tears. I know all of us to her probably looked like fish out of water with our mouths gaping open in shock and horror at Margaret and David's demise. She continued the rest of her story in a melancholy tone.
"Me kitchen twas restored by me David's carpenter friends, but a house is a house … nothin' could replace me David and me Margaret. Miss Anne and I both had dem cremated and we sprinkled deir ashes in Hutchinson River near deir favorite spot in Pelham Bay Park. Da picture I sent'ta da orphanage for deir lamb twas taken dere. Da one twere dey are picnicin' twhen Annie twas a baby.
"I's knows yas probably dinkin,' why didn't Miss Anne or I, claim Annie. Well, Miss Anne twas sick, dey dought it twas cancer, and I's started'ta become arthritic. It twasn't fair for Annie'ta come live with an agin' old lady, but I made sure'ta keep her treasures her parents left behind instead of sendin' dem'ta da orphanage for dat woman to hock off. Ifin' I twas to perish before she came of age, me son, Collin, twould have located Miss Annie'ta give dem'ta her twhen she left da orphanage. I may not have been able'ta take her in, but me eyes have stayed on da lamb since me David and me Margaret shared her story with me.
"Miss Annie's very lucky'ta have found yas two … I knows I should've come forward afta your announcement on da radio, but I was naïve'ta dink no one would fool you. Afta all, I figured dat WOMAN, would have burst da lambs bubble by givin' her da otha half along with her pictures. I shoulda known better, she'd shown her true colors'ta me David and me Margaret, within her first month of bein' da girls' caregiver, and dey tweren't pretty either. I'm sure her sticky hands twent through da stuff I sent o'er, but none of dem twere worth money just da end of a dream."
I heard myself clarifying the dream part for the dense men, "When you mean dream, you are stating the Bennetts' wish to reunite with Annie?"
"Yes, me dear, da dream dey'd been workin' toward went up inta flames with dem, but dat doesn't mean I can't right da wrongs Mr. Ryan and Miss Hannigan created toward da lamb."
Bessie, to say there wasn't another dramatic pause, I'd be lying. I think all four of us took deep long breaths as our eyes all slid over to the two trunks and small dresser. Their craftsmanship was simple yet elegant, with Mrs. McGuire's silent permission, I scooted out of Oliver's embrace, and slowly opened one of the trunks. Then my nostrils were instantly filled with wonderful aromas of different flowers, spices, and wood; but, my breath was taken away when I saw the initials DB engraved in the top of the lid. Bessie, my eyes filled with tears again as knobby hands joined mine in the trunk.
Good heavens, my pen is starting to fail me, and I'm trapped by Annie right now to retrieve another one! Let's just hope my violent shaking not only assists the pen, but doesn't awaken my distraught babe. Maybe Oliver or someone will be up here soon to not only assist me with my pen issue but Annie as well.
She's so brave with great perseverance and continued cheer which so many grown-ups lack these days; but, not many can say they've experienced all this drama she's encountered this past week. I wondered when she would finally break, not that I wished it for her! Okay, pen don't fail me now! I have so much to write down from earlier, and even though I have a photographic memory it's better utilized right after an event occurs!
"Dis trunk is filled with me Margaret's creations," stated Mrs. McGuire as Oliver joined us on the floor. "Yas, can see dat I's and a few of me tenants lovingly wrapped items me Margaret crocheted or sewed for da lamb. We also jugged and corked several of her perfumes and oils."
Rats, rats, and double rats! I've had to shake this pen five times already in order to finish this last paragraph. Where is Oliver?! I should have had Aaron set me up with more pens when he assisted me earlier with my folding tables. He's such a sweet under-footman in training! He came up to check on us 20 minutes after he and the other footmen left Annie's room earlier.
By then Annie had cried herself to sleep and I was stuck in our rocking chair. Not that I can complain because I love cuddling with Annie, but I so wanted to capture today's events down on paper for future reference before they became too fuzzy. So, Aaron saved me, not only by retrieving my two folding tables to place on either side of my chair, but also my journal. Bless him, but now I wish I would have thought to ask for more pens just in encase! Ugh! Let's hope someone comes soon and more shakes won't fail me until someone shows up!
She then pulled out a few of the wrapped items in order to uncover a handmade lap writing desk. It was actually Mr. Donatelli that explained what it was indicating that it appeared to be a replica of Thomas Jeffers
NOOOOOOO! I can't believe my pen is dead … sorry Bessie, I'll have to update you when someone comes to assist me BECAUSE I'm not moving my little girl! I need this cuddling time as much as she does!
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