Sarah and James continued to work on their articles for a long time. And any spoken words between them always involved work. But James didn't mind. Talking about his work was a lot less awkward then just plain conversation. And working kept his mind off of other... distracting things. But unfortunately, he couldn't keep his mind focused. It was of some benefit, though. James thought that Ben might give im some advice on Sarah. A long shot, he knew, but worth a try anyway.
After an hour or so went by until Moses and Henri returned. Doctor Franklin walked in behind them carrying a single suitcase in his hand. Henri was busily talking away to doctor Franklin, saying something about pie and being hungry. Sarah greeted him with a big hug and James did the same.
"Its so good to see you again, doctor Franklin." Said Sarah with a smile.
"It has indeed been too long, my dear Sarah." Replied Ben, "I think this will be the last of my voyages for a long time. Not only am I away from home for long periods, but I miss Sarah's excellent cooking!" Everyone started laughing including Sarah. It was now lunchtime, and doctor Franklin went upstairs to unpack. Moses, Sarah, and Henri headed to the kitchen to cook and clean, leaving James standing in the middle of the shop. After checking to make sure no one saw him, James made my way upstairs to Ben's study/bedroom. Nervously he knocked on the door. He heard Ben's approval and entered.
"Ah, James, come in." he said, and then noticed the nervousness all over James' face. "What seams to be troubling you? I'm assuming that's why you came up here." James nodded.
"I wanted to ask you for some advice." Ben, who had been composing a letter, motioned his hand towards the bed for James to sit down. Once he did, Ben continued.
"What kind of advice, James?" James swallowed the lump forming in his throat.
"Uh... advice on how to get a girl to... know you like them." Ben seamed surprised at this answer. He stood up and closed the door.
"Your talking about Sarah, aren't you?" James looked up surprised. Ben was smiling warmly at him.
"How did you know?" Ben started laughing.
"James, when you get to be my age, you tend to notice how these things. I could tell you two were attracted towards each other before either of you realized it yourselves. I'm actually shocked that you didn't figure it out sooner, James." Ben proceeded to sit back down in his chair facing James.
"Wait a sec, you said 'I could tell you two were attracted to each other', so does that mean...?" Ben nodded, still smiling. James was speechless. Sarah actually liked him, too? Ben continued, snapping James out of his thoughts.
"Back to the matter at hand. I have several pieces of advice for you, James, and I hope you listen well and take them to heart. Take time for all things: great haste makes great waste. Do not rush into love too quickly. This means, be sure things are right, and the circumstances are proper before making any big decisions. Another is this: If passion drives you, let reason hold the reins. Basically that means be sure your intentions are good before following your heart. The last one is this: There are two ways of being happy - We must either diminish our wants or augment our means. Either may do and the result is the same, but it is for each man to decide for himself and to do that which happens to be easier."
Ben paused and watched James intently, who had been eagerly taking in every word he said.
"That is the best advice I can give, James. Keep in mind all that I have told you and you will find that it is the best advice any man can give." James smiled brightly.
"Thank you, Ben. Thanks for everything."
"Your welcome, James." He stood up to leave, but Ben stopped him. "One last piece of advice, James. Whoever you decide to court be sure to treat her well. Make her feel special because she is. And always show her that you care." With those last words, James thanked Ben once more and closed the door behind him.
A/N - I realized that I was switching back and forth between first person POV and third, so I fixed it. Sorry for that!