Echoes of Density - 23
A Miracle
As the family absorbed the astonishing news of Mary's potential survival, their emotions ranged from overwhelming joy to cautious optimism. They gathered in the library, the room that had witnessed so many significant moments in their lives and began to discuss the implications of this newfound revelation.
"It's truly a miracle, is it not?" Lady Cora's voice trembled with emotion as she spoke. "To think that Mary might still be alive after all this time."
Lord Grantham nodded, his gaze fixed on the photograph in the newspaper article. "Indeed, Cora. But we must proceed with caution. Amnesia is a complex condition, and we cannot simply assume that this woman is our Mary without proper confirmation."
Edith, who had always been more sceptical then anyone else, spoke up. "Father is right. Amnesia can be a tricky thing. Memories can be fragmented or altered, and we need to be absolutely certain before we make any assumptions."
Sybil, ever the observant and sensitive one, pointed to the bottom of the article. "Look here, they're requesting any information about the woman be sent to the office of New York Post. Perhaps we should respond and inquire further."
With international post being notoriously slow, the family recognized the need for a more immediate course of action. Robert, as the head of the family, suggested that he should write a detailed telegram to the New York Post, seeking additional information about the woman's background, circumstances, and any identifying details that could definitively establish her as Mary.
"But what if she truly is Mary, Robert?" Cora's eyes shimmered with hope. "What should we do next? How can we bring her back home?"
The room buzzed with excitement as they contemplated the possibilities. "If this woman is Mary," Robert mused, "then our first priority would be to bring her back to Downton Abbey where she belongs. We would need to ensure her safety and well-being during the journey."
Edith nodded, her mind already racing with plans. "And once she's here, we can work with medical professionals to ascertain the extent of her amnesia. We must tread carefully and be prepared for any outcome."
Sybil added, "And we can reach out to any contacts we have in New York to gather more information about her. The more we know, the better we can understand her situation."
As they discussed their next steps, the family's excitement was palpable. Their shared determination to bring Mary back home and unravel the mystery of her amnesia united them in purpose. With a sense of renewed hope and anticipation, they began to draft the letter that would initiate their inquiry and set the wheels in motion to confirm Mary's identity.
Happy News
Downstairs in the bustling servants' quarters of Downton Abbey, the news of Lady Mary's potential survival echoed through the air like a whispered miracle. Carson and Thomas sat together at the staff dining table, sipping their tea and exchanging hushed words as the rest of the household went about their tasks.
"Did you hear the news, Mr. Carson?" Thomas leaned in, his eyes wide with a mixture of surprise and intrigue.
Carson nodded slowly, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Yes, Thomas. It seems there's a chance that Lady Mary may still be alive."
Mr Carson thought it best to announce the news to the rest of the staff, after all it was impossible to keep anything from the servants. The people who interacted most intimately with the family above the stairs. Mr Carson cleared his throat and with his loud and sonorous voice announced to the rest of the room, "Listen up! Lord Grantham has received credible evidence that Lady Mary may still be alive and in New York. We must be respectful at this time to the family and always maintain decorum". The excitement was palpable, and the news spread like wildfire among the staff. Anna, who had become particularly close to Lady Mary over the years, exchanged looks of sheer joy with the other servants present. Daisy's eyes glistened with tears of happiness as she clutched her apron, hardly able to believe the possibility.
"Did you ever think you'd see the day, Mr. Carson?" Anna whispered; her voice filled with hope.
Carson chuckled softly, his gaze distant as he reminisced. "I must admit, I had nearly lost all hope. But life has a way of surprising us, doesn't it?"
Thomas, never one to miss an opportunity to stir the pot, chimed in with a wry grin. "Well, some families have all the luck, don't they? First, they find out their missing daughter might be alive, and now they'll probably get her back safe and sound."
Carson cast a stern look at Thomas. "It's not a matter of luck, Mr. Barrow. It's a matter of perseverance, love, and faith."
As the servants continued to chatter and speculate, Carson's thoughts turned inward. He recalled the many times Lady Mary had brightened the household with her presence, her wit, and her undeniable spirit. He knew the impact she had on those around her, and the prospect of her return filled him with a renewed sense of purpose.
"Indeed, we must remain cautious," Carson mused, his voice tinged with a mix of caution and optimism. "But if there's a chance that Lady Mary is out there, then we shall prepare for her arrival with the same dedication and devotion that we've always shown."
Daisy and Anna exchanged glances, their smiles growing wider. The news had injected new energy into the Downton Abbey staff, reminding them of the bond that connected them to the Crawley family. With their thoughts filled with hope and anticipation, they continued their work, eager to contribute to the preparations that might bring Lady Mary back to her rightful home.
Breid's Plans
In the comfortable living room of their temporary residence in New York, Mrs. Branson, Breid, and Kieran sat together, discussing the future that lay ahead. The room was filled with a mixture of hope, uncertainty, and a touch of nostalgia for the life they had left behind.
As Tom diligently searched for Marie's identity, the three family members took a moment to consider their own paths. Kieran's offer to Breid was met with eager anticipation. "Breid, love, I've been thinking," Kieran began, his tone thoughtful. "You could stay here with me in New York. You're bright and capable, and I could use some help running the mechanics business. You could work as a secretary and learn the trade. What do you say?"
Breid's eyes lit up with excitement. She turned to her mother with a pleading look. "Ma, can I? This is an amazing opportunity!"
Mrs. Branson hesitated, her motherly instincts warring with her practical concerns. She glanced at Kieran, silently seeking reassurance.
Kieran nodded, his expression sincere. "I promise, Ma, I'll take good care of her. She'll be safe and well looked after."
Mrs. Branson let out a soft sigh, her heart torn between her daughter's happiness and her own desire for the family to be reunited. "Very well, Breid. If Kieran is willing to take responsibility for you, then I'll agree."
Breid's face lit up with joy, and she embraced her mother gratefully. "Thank you, Ma!"
Kieran smiled warmly at them both. "You're welcome, Breid. We'll make a great team."
As they settled into the decision, the conversation turned to Mrs. Branson's plans. She spoke wistfully, "I can't wait to return to Bray, see my neighbours, and be back in my own little house. I miss Kitty and little Seamus, as well as Patrick and his new wife."
Breid nodded in agreement. "It will be good to be home, won't it, Mother?"
Mrs. Branson nodded, a hint of longing in her eyes. "Indeed, it will, my dear."
Kieran chimed in, his voice reassuring. "And you won't be alone. You'll have the support of your family, neighbours and friends."
Mrs. Branson managed a small smile. "You're right, Kieran. It's time to move forward."
Their conversation shifted to the upcoming journey back to Dublin. "Mother, are you sure about traveling on a ship again?" Breid asked, her concern evident.
Mrs. Branson sighed softly; her gaze distant. "I won't deny I'm a bit anxious, especially after our experience on the Titanic. But I'll be with Tom and Mary, we will be together, and Mary and I can sooth each other's nerves and that's what matters most."
Kieran placed a reassuring hand on his mother's shoulder. "We'll keep a close eye on Breid, Ma. That's one thing you won't have to worry about." "Mothers always worry Kieran, no matter how big and bold their children become" she said as she patted his hand.
With that, the trio shared a moment of peacefulness, each understanding the challenges and the opportunities that lay ahead. As they prepared to embark on the next chapter of their lives.
The Proposal
In the quiet moments of their shared privacy, Tom and Mary found themselves engrossed in a conversation that held the potential to shape their future. The clerk's recommendation to marry for citizenship had opened a door neither of them had anticipated, and as they exchanged words, their hearts began to beat faster in anticipation of a momentous decision.
Tom's voice was steady, his eyes fixed on Mary's as he spoke with a sincerity that resonated deeply. "Mary, over these last few weeks, something has grown between us. I've felt it, and I believe you have too. I don't want our union to be one of convenience, but a choice born out of love, a commitment for the rest of our lives."
Mary's gaze met Tom's, and her heart raced as his words danced in the air around them. She nodded slowly; her voice soft yet resolute. "Tom, I've never felt more myself than when I'm with you. These past weeks have been a revelation, and I've come to realize that the path I want to walk aligns with yours. So, yes, Tom, I want to be your last love."
The weight of the moment hung in the air as Tom's lips curved into a gentle smile. "Mary, I promise to cherish you, to stand by your side through every joy and hardship that comes our way."
In hushed tones they talk, "I am weary of asking you to marry me when your memory is still incomplete?" "It's hard to describe, but I remember waking on the Carpathia and being told that the Titanic sank, and I felt ashamed to feel relieved,"" Mary there is no need to feel ashamed to be saved, to be alive!" Tom rushed to reassure Mary. "I wasn't relieved because I was alive, well yes of course I was, I meant I was relieved because I felt free," She whispered. "Free from the weight of expectations, free to make my own decisions, free to be myself for the first time."
Tom tenderly stroked Mary's cheek, "I think I understand," Tom looked at Mary, a frown upon hi brow, "Are you sure you are marrying me for the right reasons? I want a wife and partner in all things." "I meant it Tom, when I said I wanted you to be my last love and I want to be up yours".
As their hands found each other's, the connection between them deepened, and a sense of serenity enveloped them. Mary's fingers brushed against Tom's, the touch sending a jolt of electricity through her veins. It was a connection that felt timeless, a bond that transcended their brief acquaintance.
With a shared understanding, Tom and Mary leaned in, their lips meeting in a tender and heartfelt kiss. It was a kiss that held the promise of a future yet to unfold, a future they were now choosing to shape together.
Their lips parted, and Tom rested his forehead against Mary's, his voice barely above a whisper. "Tomorrow, we'll share the news with Ma and Breid. But for now, let's hold onto this moment, the beginning of our journey together."
Mary nodded, her heart soaring as they held each other close, their futures now inexplicable intertwined. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over their shared embrace, Tom and Mary knew that the road ahead might be filled with challenges, but they were ready to face them together – united by love, purpose, and the belief that they had found something truly special.
Getting Married
The morning of the 18th of June dawned with a certain sense of anticipation in the air. Mrs. Branson had insisted on accompanying Mary to City Hall, her eyes brimming with both joy and concern for the whirlwind romance that had blossomed.
When Tom and Mary had first told Mrs Branson that they were getting married, she was concerned at the hastiness of the marriage. But Tom and Mary together and separately reassured her that their commitment to each other was genuine and serious. Bried was excited for them both, her romantic heart thrilled at the prospect of them marrying. Kieran who new his brother best had never seen his brother so smitten, as when he was with Mary, so shook his brother's hand and kissed Mary's cheek and wished them well for the future.
Tom stood at the entrance, a mixture of excitement and nervousness playing across his features.
As Mary walked down the aisle of City Hall, her arm linked with Mrs. Branson's, her heart raced with a mixture of emotions. The small ceremony room was adorned with simplicity, a reflection of the couple's decision to embark on this journey together. Tom's eyes met Mary's, and she found herself drowning in the depths of his unwavering gaze. It was a gaze that promised support, understanding, and the freedom to carve out their own destinies.
The ceremony itself was brief but filled with meaning. Mary's voice trembled slightly as she spoke the vows that bound her to Tom, and his own voice held a firm conviction as he made his promises in return. Mrs. Branson, standing by as witness, felt a sense of reassurance wash over her – a feeling that this was the right path for Mary and Tom.
After the ceremony, a small celebration followed at a nearby Italian restaurant. Laughter and conversation flowed freely, a testament to the warm bond that had formed between Tom, Mary, and the Bransons. Plates of pasta and glasses of wine were raised in celebration, and as the evening sun cast a golden glow, Tom and Mary shared a private moment amidst the jubilation.
Tom's fingers brushed against Mary's as he leaned in, his voice a low whisper against her ear. "It's been an incredible journey, Mrs Mary Branson. From the moment I saw you standing outside the immigration buildings on Ellis Island, to this very day – becoming your husband. I can't imagine my life without you."
Mary's lips curved into a tender smile as she looked into Tom's eyes. "And I can't imagine a better partner to share this journey with, Mr Tom Branson. You've given me a chance at a new life, a life where I can choose my own path."
As the evening drew to a close, Tom and Mary walked back to their home, their steps light with the promise of the future ahead. United by marriage and bound by love, they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. And as they entered their home, the walls seemed to echo with the unspoken hope and anticipation of the voyage to England.
Note: FYI though some countries had passports back in 1912, these were mainly used in an official capacity like for diplomats and military personnel. Super rich people got them too as a sort of status symbol, as it was not necessary to use them to travel. Most people just used a birth certificate or Baptismal form or a letter of introduction, where usually a wealthy person or business person is being sponsors the traveller. A person would need a birth certificate to prove place of birth or someone of high status could vouch for someone's citizenship.